Report by W Bro Andrew Farleigh SLGR

The work of the Friends of Prince Michael of Kent Court continues apace. Over the past months, the Friends have opened an exercise studio within PMKC – which is enthusiastically utilised by able residents. The studio includes two electronic cycles, a large-screen TV monitor and an air conditioning unit to keep the temperature constant.

In addition, the Association of Friends have maintained their programme of activities for Residents, with several highly successful events which were really enjoyed by all involved. Among the favourites was a games afternoon including a Giant Snakes & Ladders game and a Mad Hatters Tea Party with a musician, magician and balloon modeller.

The Friends are proud to have recently assisted in the renovation of one of the several gardens at the home which has transformed the way the garden will be used over this summer.

In other news, by sheer chance, it became known to the Friends that one of the PMKC residents, Henry (“Harry”) Everett, aged 89, had been a Freemason for over 50 years, but because his various Lodges had since closed, he never received his 50 Year Certificate. This only became known to the Friends during one of his regular chats with the Friends volunteers when Harry mentioned the year in which he was initiated.

The Provincial Grand Master of Middlesex, RW Bro Peter Baker was only too pleased to ensure that the certificate was awarded to W Bro Everett, and on 2^nd May 2022, W Bro Julien Sampson PAGDC, Chairman, and W Bro Doug Brodie PPGReg (Herts) proudly presented the Certificate to Harry – who was absolutely thrilled and delighted.

Just recently, the home has been presented with a fantastic Wurlitzer jukebox. The jukebox, which plays CDs, has taken pride of place next to the bar in the main lounge. 

It all began with an idea from home manager, Beverley Roberts. Music is important to the happiness and wellbeing of the elderly and Beverley thought that having a traditional jukebox would bring wonderful memories and music to the residents of PMKC.

The Association of Friends took on the challenge and within a few weeks, the Association chairman, Julien Sampson, had sourced the perfect jukebox. Funding was achieved with donations from Maida Vale Chapter No 2743 and Doric Lodge No 11 (HFAF). The stunning item was delivered on Monday 23rd May and set up by Association of Friends members, Doug and Roz Brodie.

The Association of Friends is now appealing for donations of CDs of 1950s and 1960s music which can be added into the jukebox. Doug Brodie said, “The Wurlitzer can hold 50 CDs, and we have managed to find 10 with music from the 50s and 60s. We’d love to get some Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Ella Fitzgerald, Elvis, etc., which are very popular with our residents, as well as other music of that era.”

CDs can be sent or handed in to Prince Michael of Kent Court, Stratford Road, Watford WD17 4DH.

This article is part of the Arena Magazine, Issue 49 August 2022 edition.
Arena Magazine is the official magazine of the London Freemasons - Metropolitan Grand Lodge and Metropolitan Grand Chapter of London.

Read more articles in the Arena Issue 49 here.