History Lecture highlights Cinco de Mayo celebration at Union Lodge No. 5

A unique meal consisting of delicacies such as Cuban Shredded Beef with Peppers in Cumin (Ropa Vieja), Black Beans and Rice, and Sauteed Plantains, in addition to standard Mexican-American fare of Beef Tacos and Loaded Nachos greeted the brothers and guests of Union Lodge No. 5 at their stated communication on May 5, 2010 which became a joyous celebration of Cinco de Mayo!  Junior Warden Tom Burke, Senior Steward Adam Ellyson, and Brother Sam Maurer (our Cuban chef of the evening) were given a round of applause and high praise for their efforts in the kitchen.

Attendees were treated to a lecture on the history of Cinco de Mayo and some unique ties to freemasonry by Worshipful Brother Joseph McBride, who spoke at length about the original source of the event and its adoption by the USA as an unofficial celebratory holiday of our neighbors to the south.  This holiday to commemorate the Mexican army's victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862 is celebrated nationwide throughout the USA but is celebrated primarily only in the Mexican State of Puebla.  This is not too surprising, as the tale of the underdog defeating their well-armed foe is one that often warms hearts and elicits sympathies.

Several brothers pitched in to help serve the meal and assisted afterward in the cleanup, with grateful thanks extended by the Junior Warden and Senior Steward.  Perhaps next year’s entertainment might include some music, as there are several musically-talented brothers at Union Lodge No. 5 (hint!).