eastern in this issue: grand …
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MAY2010 THEMASONICNEWS PAGE1
In This Issue:
Grand Secretary Cathy Wagner
Page 1
Lincoln Lodge prepares for Charter Night
Page 1
East Lincoln Lodge performs Degree Work
Page 2
Liberty Lodge supports Masonic Marching Band
Page 2
Hickman Lodge supports Job’s Food Drive
Page 2
The Word of 54Page 3
Starcraft Chapter presents 50 Year Pins
Page 4
M. Washington holds Initiation
Page 4
Temple Chapter reports on Roast Beef Dinner
Page 4
G. Washington Lodge is all about fish frys
Page 4
Eastern Star pull-outPages 5-8
Cont. of Cathy WagnerPage 9
Electa Chapter holds Charter Day Dinner
Page 9
Electa Kensington holds City Wide Luncheon
Page 9
Columbia Chapter holds Initiation
Page 9
Lincoln Assembly 6, Bethels 63 & 5
Page 10
Myrtle Chapter prepares for Firework
StandPage 11
North Star performs EA Degree
Page 11
Cotner Lodge holds Spring Cleaning
Page 11
Bennett Raises Three New Masons
Page 11
Bethel 60Page 12
www.MasonicNews.org
Continued on Page 9
EASTERN STAR
GRAND SESSION
Schedule on Page 7
Once again, May brings us a 12 page paper. I’ve had so many positive comments on the Eastern Star pull-out the last couple years that I bring it to you again. Pages 5-8 are a four page pull out
containing information concerning the upcoming Grand Chapter Session to be held May 11-13 at Pershing. Also included is information about the Order of the Eastern Star. Use it as a recruiting tool!!!
A Twelve Page News?
May 2010P.O. Box 82304
Lincoln, NE 68501-2304
The Word of 54Tyler White, Correspondent
In May, Nebraska Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star will bid a fond farewell to a tireless and dedicated worker. Sister Cathy Wagner, Grand Secretary will be trading her office and computer for a sewing room, more time in her garden and more opportunities to spend time with her treasured grandchildren.
Cathy was born in Wyoming and grew up on a ranch northwest of Cheyenne. She met Wendell Wagner when they attended university and they were married in 1963. Wendell and Cathy became the proud parents of two sons and a daughter. And now they are the proud grandparents of three lovely grandchildren.
Cathy and Wendell lived in Colorado for over fifteen years and it was during that time they joined Eastern Star in Wray, Colorado, 38 years ago. From Wray they moved to Mitchell, Nebraska, where they became members of Sunflower Chapter No. 214. Working in the sugar beet industry provided a living and Cathy weighed sugar beet trucks seasonally for 31 years. Prior to coming to Fremont they managed a motel and worked on the ranch owned by David and Hannah Armstrong PGM.
Cathy served as Grand Adah in 1982-83 having been appointed by Betty Mabon Worthy Grand Matron and Bernie Paden Worthy Grand Patron. She was appointed a District Grand Supervisor in 1983 and served as a Supervisor for five years. Cathy was elected Grand Secretary in 1999 and the couple moved to Fremont.
Cathy has been the wind beneath the wings of eleven Worthy Grand Matrons. But unlike those before her, she was elected into the budding age of computers and
technology which required changes and a lot of time devoted into learning and adapting new ways to best suit the needs Nebraska Grand Chapter. Cathy tackled the challenges with determination and enthusiasm. “Attitude is Everything” became her moniker.
Past Grand Matrons who have served with Cathy as their Grand Secretary fondly recall their years and have shared their feelings or quotes have been gleaned from their Grand Chapter Proceedings:
--Marlene Jones 1999-2000 quoted from the 2000 Proceedings: “When we began this year together, little did I know how often I would be using the 800 number to call your office. Each time I called, you were always friendly and most willing to help me out with whatever problem I had. I know that you were also learning this year but you always had time for me.”
--Mary Jo Peterson 2000-2001 quoted from 2001 Proceedings: “To Our Grand Secretary: You have been so helpful to me and my many questions, so patient when I had deadlines to meet and so full of support and encouragement. Thank
GRAND SECRETARY CATHY WAGNER
RETIRINGSubmitted by Betty Garwood, PGM
SIS. CATHY WAGNER
Lincoln Lodge 19Lowell Vestal, Correspondent
CHARTER NIGHT JUNE 22
Plan now to attend the 142nd anniversary of our Lodge on Tue., June 22, at our Masonic Temple, 1635 L St. Ours was Lincoln’s first Masonic Lodge, chartered just one year after statehood replace the Territory of Nebraska in 1867.
To be exact, our Lodge was chartered on June 25, 1868. (All new Lodges were chartered then at the annual Grand Lodge Communication each year.)
In the June Masonic News, I hope to have the schedule of events at our celebration.
CANCELED
Our Family and Prospect
Night, scheduled for Tue.,
May 25, has been canceled.
ADIOS, BRO. HUGO
Our Senior Deacon, Bro. Hugo Estrada, has moved to the McAllen, TX area. He worked in research at UNL. The Brothers of our Lodge held a farewell get-together at Tico’s Foods of Mexico restaurant for Bro. Hugo. His ready smile will be missed.
The final Central School of Instruction, on Mar. 31, found four Brothers of Lincoln Lodge 19 posing with Most Worshipful Bro. Scott Krieger, second from left, who is the Grand Custodian of the Ritual and the con-ductor of the four Schools held in Lincoln. Brothers, from left, are Bro. Richard Wyatt, our newest Master Mason; (Krieger), Past Master Virgil Meints, (1976, 2007 and 2008); Senior Deacon Hugo Estrada; and Senior Steward Lowell Vestal. Wade Kendle photo
Card games ruled the evening of April 13 for these members of Lincoln Lodge 19. From left are Past Master Tom Trauthen (1980), Secretary and Past Master Chuck Burk (1985, 2002, and 2003), new Bro. Richard Wyatt, and Past Master Virgil Meints (1976, 2007, and 2008). Lowell Vestal photo
DID YOU KNOW?
Lincoln Lodge 19 was chartered on June 25, 1868. It is the oldest Masonic Lodge in Lincoln.
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PAGE2 THEMASONICNEWS MAY2010
THE MASONIC NEWSUSPS-332-880
Vol. 102 May, 2010 No. 5PUBLISHED MONTHLY - LINCOLN, NEBRASKA
BY MASONIC NEWS INC., 1635 "L" St. 68508
Wade Kendle, EditorBeth Benson, Business ManagerSubscription Rates $6.00 Year
SEND ALL CORRESPONDENCE TO:Masonic news P.O. Box 82304 Lincoln, Nebraska 68501
News/Editorial/Mailing List Attn: Wade Kendle or via E-Mail to: [email protected]/Subscription Attn: Beth Benson
Periodicals postage paid at Lincoln, NebraskaPOSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Masonic news, P.O. Box 82304, Lincoln, NE 68501
The Masonic News has been publishing news of the Lincoln Masonic Community since 1921. ELECTRIC MOTOR SERVICE
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SPRING IS HERE
Spring is here with warmer weather, which means green grass, the baseball season has begun, and the Spring Red and White game will be played. I t a l so means people wi l l start working on their yards, gardens and clean up projects.
APRIL BUSINESS MEETING
Hickman lodge met on Thurs. Apr. 1. Yes, that is no joke being April Fools Day. The lodge met and discussed various things, read and voted on a petition. Then after the meeting the brethren enjoyed refreshment and fellowship.
After reading the petition fo r Dav id D . Barnes , t he brethren balloted and voted favorably for him to receive t h e d e g r e e s o f M a s o n r y .
DEGREE WORK
On Apr. 8, Hickman Lodge 256 was opened to confer the degree of Entered Apprentice Mason on Roger Schwindt, Jonathan Dykes, and David D. Barnes, candidates for Hickman. All three brothers and Joshua Ames returned a week later on Apr. 15. They all proved up a s En te red Appren t i ce Masons and then were made Fellow Craft Masons. Thank you to all the brethren for your time and help with these degrees . We wi l l soon be meeting to confer the degree of Master Mason on these brothers.
LODGE CLEAN UP DAY
The three Masonic lodges that meet at 46th and Cooper will be having a Clean Up day on May 8 starting at 8:30 am. If you have sometime and can help out with various projects it would be greatly apprec ia ted . The more we have the faster it gets done.
JOBS DAUGHTERS FOOD DRIVE
The Jobs Daughters are having a competition food drive. So search your food pantry for can goods and bring them with you on your next visit to the lodge. The drive is going on now and will end on May 8.
SHRINE BOWL - NORTH TEAM PICNIC
Brethren of Hickman lodge decided to take on a new project this year. We will be organizing and serving a picnic for the Shrine Bowl North team. The picnic will be held on June 13. If you are interested in helping or attending the picnic call WM Richard Eggerling at 476-9761.
NEAL H. PENTON AND LARRY G. DAVIS
It is my sad duty to report that Hickman Lodge lost a couple of brothers this month. W.B. Neal H. Penton passed away on Mar. 23 and Bro. Larry G. Davis passed away on Apr. 1. The lodge will honor both brothers by sending a memorial to their respective organizations.
A SMILE
“A SMILE is the lighting system of the face and the heating system of the heart,” and remember , “The bes t attitude to have in one’s daily life is a KEEP-AT-IT-UDE!”
BUSINESS MEETING
Our snowbirds have returned and they asked, “What is going on at 210?” East Lincoln Lodge has had a very busy March and April. We had five nights of degree work and are scheduled for several more during the month of May. Brethren, come out to lodge and be a part of degree work or support the candidates from the sidelines.
At the March regular communication, the Lodge voted to sponsor two band camp scholarships to be designated by the Grand Lodge to two students to participate in the 2010 Masonic All Star Marching Band. Also at the meeting, the Lodge elected a new board of directors for the 210 Foundation. Elected were: President, WB Jeff Wunder, Vice President, WB Chuck Godwin, and Secretary/Treasurer, WB Monte Dietrick.
We thank the members from East Lincoln 210 who attended and participated in the Lincoln Area School of Instructions for the EA, FC and 1st section of the Master Mason Degrees on Mar. 12, 15, and 23. On Mar. 27, the Lodge hosted the 2nd section of the Master Mason degree and held its annual Lodge soup supper fundraiser. The soup supper went extremely well with the Lodge raising over nine hundred dollars to assist in the day-to-day operations of the Lodge. A huge thank you to WB Scott Dietrick and WB Art and Willamena Kolb for helping make this fundraiser a success. Also, thanks to one of our new brothers, John Stotts and Village Inn for donating soup for the supper.
DEGREE WORK
On Mar. 16, the Lodge degree work consisted of conferring the degree of a Fellowcraft Mason, on brothers John Stotts, Steve Thompson and Dylan Robinett. WB Scott Dietrick was the conferring Master. WB Wade
Kendle of Liberty Lodge No. 300 gave the Middle Chamber lecture.
On Mar. 22, WB Scott Dietrick conferred the Entered Apprentice Mason Degree on Waylon Hulliger and Anthony Young. WB John Butler, and WM Scott Dodge gave the questions and answers and the lectures.
The monthly bus iness meeting was held on April Fools Day, Apr. 1 with a scrumptious potluck supper. It was nice to see Wilma Dietrick at the potluck after two months of being “under the weather”. We approved the bills, received one new petition and WM Scott Dodge presented the April and May calendar. Also, this was the time to review the Suspension Report of members who have not paid their Lodge dues. It was necessary to suspend several members who were two years delinquent. If you are still unpaid, PLEASE remit your dues immediately to the secretary/treasurer Jeff Wunder.
Bro. John Stotts, WB Jeff Wunder and WM Scott Dodge, along with the tireless help of Scott’s lady, Lorie, were kept busy working one of the concession stands at Memorial Stadium during the annual Red/White Football game. This brings in some income to the Lodge.
Tim Dalyrmple, a Senior DeMolay from Dr. Frederick Eiche Chapter Order of DeMolay received the Entered Apprentice Mason Degree on Apr. 19 with WB Roger Werner Past Master of Table Rock Lodge and his son Bro. Brandon Werner conferring the degree. Both WB Roger and his son Brandon are member of Cotner Lodge No. 297 and past advisors of the Eiche Chapter of DeMolay.
As a courtesy to Bennett Lodge, degree work continued on Apr. 20 when WM Scott Dodge (dual member with Bennett Lodge) and members of East Lincoln Lodge assisted in conferring the degee work on three Master Mason candidates
And, f inally, on Apr. 26, both John Stotts and Steve Thompson were raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason.“If I live to a ripe old age, may I possess a bit of tolerance and wisdom of thoughtfulness and wit.That I may not be discarded or put by with the meek; But sought after and cherished as a rare ANTIQUE.”
Hickman Lodge 256Jeff Eggerling, Correspondent
Liberty Lodge 300
Randy Cox, Corr.
The April business meeting was held on April Fools Day, which some might feel was appropriate. However, no jokes were played so the lodge was able to conduct its business. Voted on to join our fraternity were Michael Yost, Daniel Necas, Raymond Lamborn and Gary Haszard. Bro. Mark Turner was also welcomed back to the lodge after spending the last 2 years in Arizona. Bro. Mark has talked about how different degree work is in Arizona. It is interesting to hear how different jurisdictions do degree work, how they take different paths to the same end.
Liberty Lodge will be making a contribution to support the Masonic Band Camp. We feel that this is a worthwhile activity and its support is greatly needed from all Lodges. We urge all lodge members to help out at the Band Camp.
Degree work will continue throughout the year as it always does. We look forward to bringing more men into the fraternity with the hope that Masonry will continue to thrive. We will also be having a Lodge picnic and plans are to have a Pasture Lodge, probably later this summer or early fall.
Just a reminder, if you have not paid your 2010 dues, please send them in. It is very important that the lodge gets these. Also, this fall the lodge will once again be manning a concession stand at Nebraska football games. If you would like to help out, come to lodge and make your wishes known or contact WB Wade Kendle at 304-6385 who puts our crew of five volunteers together for every game.
AWARDS NIGHT
On Apr. 29, we held our annual Awards Night. Watch for details in next month’s Masonic News!
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MAY2010 THEMASONICNEWS PAGE�
SIx RAISED TO THE SUBLIME DEGREE OF A
MASTER MASON
Fellow Craft Masons Brad Sundsboe, Eric Sundsboe, and their father Chris Sundsboe were raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason on Apr. 23 by WB Bill Cummins as Most Excellent King Solomon. “It is very comforting to now see all of my sons and grandsons become Master Masons of Lancaster Lodge this evening,” said Dan Roth, Past Potentate of Sesostirs Shrine and long-time member of Lancaster Lodge No. 54. Ill. Dan has brought numerous members of his family into 54 over the years. “We are all very proud to be active members of this lodge,” he said.
Brothers Eric Windhausen, Tyler Fernandez, and Chris Stokes also attained to that degree on Apr. 30 with WB Keith Attebery raising them to a living perpendicular. We congratulate these young men on achieving this Masonic milestone. We look forward to continued fellowship with all of you!
LODGE CLEAN UP DAY
Sat., Apr. 10 found 14 members at the lodge for the purpose of cleaning and re-organizing the building and our storage areas. Members picked up trash left by passers-by on the lawn and our parking lot and other parking areas. They also installed a new wardrobe cabinet in our Tiler’s room for storing our candidate clothing and related items. The contents of our rooms were inventoried and re-organized and in general, tidied-up. Thanks to the numerous brethren who attended. Those in attendance were treated to refreshments at the Nebraska Club by WM Patrick Barger.
MARSHAL JOSH MIETz GIVES AWESOME
DOCTORAL RECITAL
Our Marshal, Josh Mietz, is currently studying toward his Doctorate of Musical Arts at the UNL School of Music. Accompanied by various musicians on Apr. 3, his 2010 Doctoral Recital was well received and attended by numerous people, a full third of which were his Lancaster Lodge brothers! As an outstanding clarinet player (and private lesson teacher to students of all ages and ability), Josh was in the spotlight with his rendition of Widor’s Introduction et Rondo, Op. 72, Brahms’ Sonata for Clarinet and Piano, Op. 120 No. 2, and Mozart’s Trio for Clarinet, Viola, and Piano, K. 498.
Josh was par t icu lar ly interested in and selected the Mozart piece because of its strong connection to Masonry. Composed in Vienna in 1786 by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, K. 498 was written to be played by the following ensemble: Franziska von Jacquin on piano, Anton von Stadler on clarinet, and Mozart himself playing viola. These three men were Masons in the New Crowned Hope Masonic Lodge in Vienna. Like many of Mozart’s works, there is a strong association to Masonry in this music. “The
number three is very significant to Masons and is important to this work,” Mietz said. The first and most obvious is the presence of three players. It was unusual in 1786 to combine the clarinet and viola into a work with piano. The usual Classical-era trio piece was far more likely to use violin and cello than viola and clarinet. The next instance of the number three is that of this piece having three movements. In a typical Classical-era chamber piece like a trio or quartet, it is customary to have four movements that are usually “fast, slow, dance, and fast again” in structure. In the case of K. 498, there is no “fast” movement to start it off, leaving only three “slow, dance, and fast” movements to comprise the piece. The final feature involving the number three is that of the key signature. Written in E-flat major (containing three flats in the key signature), this key is referred to by many as the “fundamental key of Freemasonry” because of its well-established symbolism. “Mozart was well aware of this and relished the symbolism of Masonry,” Josh added. “It can be no accident that a work written for his Masonic Brothers is based upon the number three.” Regardless of any Masonic symbolism or subtleties, this trio has established itself as an example of great chamber music and features enjoyable dialogues among the instruments.
FIVE INITIATED AS ENTERED APPRENTICES
Mark Bidrowski, Nathan Anderson, Tyson Jenkins, Gregory Miller, and Steve Stephens were initiated as Entered Apprentice Masons by Junior Warden Tyler White on Apr. 16. Welcome aboard!
FIVE PASSED AS FELLOW CRAFT MASONS
Armin Jukovic, Bob Bunte, Nathan Anderson, and Graham House were passed to the degree of a Fellow Craft Mason on Apr. 2 by Senior Warden Mark Clinton. Congratulations to all on this milestone marking two-thirds of you completion
of the degrees of Masonry!
LANCASTER LODGE VOTES TO SPONSOR
LINCOLN YOUTH SYMPHONY
Clark Potter, Professor of Music for the Lincoln Youth Symphony and Professor of Viola at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, presented a program to us concerning the Lincoln Youth Symphony during our pre-business meeting dinner. “The Lincoln Youth Symphony operates on a tight budget and we are excited about the possibility of Lancaster Lodge sponsoring us,” Potter said. “We are also excited about the possibility of interacting with the Brethren of Lancaster Lodge as they each out to community organizations like ours.”
The Lincoln Youth Symphony was organized in 1957 by the Lincoln Public Schools in order to give talented musicians the opportunity to extend their orchestral music performance. Membership is available to students in grade 9-12 in the City of Lincoln and is by audition only. The orchestra’s extensive travel history has included visits to Austria, Prague, Budapest, and, in 2009, Rome. It has also appeared at national music conferences in Chicago, St. Louis and Kansas City. Recently, the Orchestra has been involved in international performances and cultural exchanges with youth orchestras in Mexico City, Hong Kong, and Guangzhou, China. As part of the Chinese exchange, LYS and the orchestra from Guangzhou gave a joint performance in Kimball Recital Hall in the fall of 2000. LYS completed a successful performance trip to Beijing, China, and performed a concert at the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing in March, 2003. In the spring of 2005 the orchestra toured Austria, playing concerts in Vienna, Graz, and Bad Ischl with additional visits to Salzburg and Innsbruck.
After Clark’s presentation, the brethren retired to the lodge room to conduct our monthly business meeting during which they unanimously voted to sponsor the Lincoln Youth Symphony.
Terry Rush, Assistant Director of Music for the Lincoln Youth Symphony and Director of Bands at Lincoln Southwest High School said, “This is fantastic partnership and great opportunity for collaboration. What a great way for us to learn more about who Lancaster Lodge is and in turn, them about us.”
DEGREE TEAM TO OMAHA AND SCHRAMM
STATE PARK
Lancaster Lodge was invited to perform the Second Section of the Master Mason Degree for the Omaha Masters & Wardens special One-Day
Conferral. On this day, 25 Omaha candidates experienced the Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason degrees all in one-day!
Lancaster Lodge is perhaps the only lodge with a travelling degree team that performs this important section in full costume. Also, during the regular portion of the degree it is mentioned that there are twelve craftsmen, but in reality only three are physically portrayed. During Lancaster 54 Degree Team excursions, we are the only lodge that actually puts all twelve Craftsmen on the floor in a specially designed ceremony seen nowhere else in the state!
In this instance, our very own Brother Fellow Craft Mason Graham House, a radio announcer with NET Radio 91.1, was the candidate for this very special opportunity to be raised by his Lancaster Lodge brethren. Some of you may remember Graham as the Lincolnite who appeared on the national television series “Jeopardy!” only to be bested by Ken Jennings, the contestant who maintained his lead for over a year by beating everyone who attempted to beat him in the longest running and as-yet-unbeaten record for the longest standing winner.
Your lodge offers its degree team service throughout the state and we never know who is going to request this special event, but we have been doing it approximately twice a year recently.
We chartered a greyhound-type bus that departed the lodge at 10:30 a.m. A sack lunch was provided. We performed the degree at 1:00 p.m. and re-boarded the bus at 2:30 to depart for Schramm State Park near Gretna--a nice, beautiful, and secluded setting. Once
there, Steward Bob Nickell grilled burgers and bratwurst on portable gas grills. MWB Jim Brown was noted as enthusiastically saying, “I declare this event a success!”
PAST MASTER’S MEMORIAL CEREMONY
SET FOR MAY 21
Lancaster Lodge No. 54’s annual Past Master’s Memorial Ceremony will be held on May 21. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m., the ceremony will begin at 7:00 p.m., and a Master Mason Degree conducted exclusively by a trestle board of 54’s Past Masters will follow. The annual observance of our deceased Past Masters is solemn and thought provoking and ensures a remembrance will be had among Masons of the strong leadership and firm foundation these Brothers provided from which the future of our lodge is eternally grateful. Widows of deceased Past Masters are invited and encouraged to attend. Reservations for dinner only are required by May 17 to Senior Steward Bob Nickell at 525-5948 or [email protected].
EVENT CALENDAR
MAY 7: Dinner 6:15 p.m; Business Meeting 7:00 p.m.
M A Y 1 4 : M a s t e r Mason deg ree 6 :30 p .m .
MAY 21: Past Master’s Memorial Dinner 6:30, Ceremony 7:00, Master Mason Degree by 54’s Past Masters to follow
JUNE 4: Dinner 6:15 p.m; Business Meeting 7:00 p.m.
NOTE: Please check our website at www.lancaster54.org for the most current Event Calendar.
The Word of 54Tyler White, Correspondent
BRO. JOSH MIETz
Lancaster Lodge 54 welcomed five new Fellow Crafts on April 2. Photo courtesy of Tyler White
Prof. Clark Potter presents a program on the Lincoln Youth Symphony to Lancaster 54. 54 is now an official sponsor of the LYS. Photo courtesy of Tyler White
Fellow Craft Masons Brad Sundsboe, Eric Sunds-boe, and their father Chris Sundsboe were raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason on April 23. Photo courtesy of Tyler White
Lancaster Lodge’s Degree Team travelled to Omaha to portray the 2nd Section of the Master’s Degree for an Omaha One-Day Conferral. Afterwards, they stopped off at Schramm State Park for some refresh-ment. Photo courtesy of Tyler White
PAGE� THEMASONICNEWS MAY2010
STATED MEETING
Members of Starcraft Chapter were dressed in pretty pastels for our Apr. 7 stated meeting. Worthy Matron, Sis. Cora Redwine, and Bro. Dennis Brydl, welcomed everyone. 27 members attended the meeting.
We honored 17 Worthy Matrons and Patrons and affiliated Worthy Matrons and Patrons of Starcraft Chapter at the meeting. It was so nice to be able to honor them all. We voted to give two band scholarships to be used for Waverly students.
KENSINGTON
Kensington met on Apr. 6 for a nice meeting where they played games. They wanted us to remember that Doris Wolfe will be turning 85 and Dorothy Kingery, PM will be turning 90 on Apr. 11.
Past Matrons held their last meeting at the home of Glee Warnke. The next meeting will be on Apr. 18 at the lodge for a covered dish dinner.
SICKNESS AND DISTRESS
Sis. Hazel Gerhard is at Windcrest now. Sis. Nita Babcock, PM had her knee scoped. Bro. Carroll Foust, PP, had a stint put in and is doing fine. Sis. Mary Alice Rittenburg fell and broke her arm at home. Sis. Nita Babcock’s grandson was in the hospital for a week with viral meningitis but is recuperating well. We lost our Sis. LaVeva Whitehead, PM, on Mar. 15. Her services were on Mar. 20 in Alma, Nebraska, with the Eastern Star service being provided by Republican Chapter No. 304.
BROTHER AND SISTER PRESENTED
50 YEAR MEMBER PINS
Brother and Sister, Bro. Elwin Donahoo and Sis. Bonnie Kalkwarf, PM were presented their 50 year pins at the meeting by Bro. Frank Mook, PP. He told us that Sis. Bonnie was initiated on Dec. 16, 1959 in Starcraft Chapter and Bro. Elwin was initiated on June 16, 1959 in Lincoln Chapter. She served as Worthy Matron of Starcraft in 1971. She has been the organist at Starcraft for 18 years. She took a few years off occasionally but for the most part has been at that station all her Star years. The chapter really appreciates all her wonderful music!!!
Sis. Cora thanked her pro-tem officers. Sis. Nita Babcock as Adah and Sis. Glee Warnke as Associate Matron. Before closing chapter the Worthy Matron was
presented with a birthday cake and the chapter sang happy birthday to her. The officers retired to the dining room where they enjoyed more birthday party fun. The ladies all brought and displayed Easter bonnets in an Easter parade. Prizes were awarded to the most delightful bonnet and the prettiest.
BIRTHDAYS
May 3..................Robert KiersteadMay 3.....................Peg GenowaysMay 9.................Marian SimmonsMay 12.........................Jean BakerMay 12..................Elizabeth AllenMay 13..................Erdene BurgessMay 13........................Joan ChismMay 14..........Norma Anne BaileyMay 18.....Rochelle Dasher MillerMay 19......................Irene GipsonMay 20...................Angela DasherMay 21.............Williamette ShaferMay 23..................Leta Mae GaddMay 23......................Leoda WebbMay 24....................Leona CopleyMay 25...............Tammy FastenauMay 29.....................Robert NimicMay 31....................Russel BrehmMay 31.................Marilyn Sievers
APRIL STATED MEETING
The April stated meeting of Temple Chapter 271 O.E.S. was held on Apr. 5. Sis. Cathy Wagner, Nebraska Grand Secretary shared and inspired the Chapter with reflections of the power and beauty of our Ritual and its words of truth and strength. She also spoke how the words and lessons shape our lives and challenge each of us to greatness. Sis Cathy reminded us of how CONTAGIOUS Eastern Star is and how CONTAGIOUS we are as i t s members .
Worthy Matron Sis. Karan Birdsall and Worthy Patron Bro. Don Jelinek congratulated Bro. Bill Raecke for winning the drawing for ticket sales to the Roast Beef Dinner. The Palm Sunday Roast Beef Dinner was SUCCESSFUL! Sis. Laurie Sieg, Associate Matron, announced that approximately 160 meals were served with a good profit for the Chapter. It was announced that 22 officers and members have passed their proficiency or taken a renewal and refresher “course” to meet the Proficiency Challenge set forth by Nebraska’s Worthy Grand Matron and Worthy Grand Patron. Certificates and cards were distributed. Sis Robyn Throckmorton shared two more available youth to participate as Secret Pals with the Chapter. The Charter was draped in memory of Sis. Bonnie Brasel, Past Grand Matron, and Bros. Cal Armor and Robert Todd, Past Grand Patrons.
The following members’ needs were brought to the Chapter’s attention at the stated meeting. Sis. Wendy Garrison had surgery on Apr. 13. Sis Zandra Hubbs had a kidney stent. Sympathy
was extended to Bro. Ken Sieg on the death of his brother-in-law.
Temple Chapter members attended church together on Apr. 18 at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. Brunch followed at the Green Gateau with a practice for initiation completing the day. Jessica Rodriguez received the degrees of our Order on Apr. 19. Members are pleased to have Jessica as a new Sister. Jessica is an active member of Lincoln Assembly 6, International Order of Rainbow for Girls, and will be graduating from Lincoln East High School in June. Sis Jan Thoman, member of the Membership Committee of the General Grand Chapter and Past Grand Matron of Nebraska and Bro. Don Jelinek, Past Grand Patron of Nebraska were formally presented and introduced at the meeting. Bro. Carl Plants, Grand Marshall, was introduced from the sidelines as he was a pro-tem officer for Marshall during the conferring of degrees. The Chapter also appreciated the assistance of Sis. Jeanne Krenk as she substituted for Organist.
CHARTER DAY
Temple Chapter members should mark their calendars for the Charter Day Luncheon May 22 at noon. 50-year members, first year members, and prospective members will be honored as special guests. The cost of the luncheon is $8.
KENSINGTON
K e n s i n g t o n m e t o n Apr. 20 and the next meeting is scheduled for May 18.
Temple Chapter 271Lorrie Bryant, Correspondent
Sis Karan Birdsall, Worthy Matron, and Bro. Don Jelinek, WorthyPatron welcome Sis. Jes-sica Rodriguez to Temple Chapter following her ini-tiation ceremony. Photo courtesy of Lorrie Bryant
Temple Chapter members are ready to serve the crowds at the Roast Beef Dinner on Palm Sunday. Pictured are Bro. Merv McDonough, Sisters Tiffany Westerholt, Laurie Sieg, Judy McDonough, Jennifer Birdsall, and Bro. Don Jelinek. Photo courtesy of Lorrie Bryant
Sis. Cass Orton and Sis. Wendy Garrison make plans for serving the deli-cious desserts at Temple Chapter’s Roast Beef Din-ner on Palm Sunday. Pho-to courtesy of Lorrie Bryant
Starcraft Chapter 307Terri Sherman, Correspondent
Starcraft Chapter Past Matrons and Patronsand affiliated Past Matrons and Patrons were honored at the April Stated Meeting. Photo courtesy of Terri Sherman
50 year pins were pre-sented to Sis. Bonnie Kalkwarf, PM, and her brother, Bro. Elwin Do-nahoo (right) by Bro. Frank Mook (left) at Starcraft Chapter’s April meeting. Photo cour-tesy of Terri Sherman
Starcraft Chapter’s EasterBonnet winners were Terri Sherman and Julie Fowler. Photo courtesy of Terri Sherman
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INITIATION
Martha Washington Chapter 153 held its second Initation of the year on Apr. 1. We initated Bro. Rick Anderson into our Chapter. Our special guests were Bille Mattern, WGM, Jan Thoman, PGM, GGCC, Membership, Betty Kirby, PGM, GGCC, Service Dogs, Mary Jo Peterson, PGM, Betty Maybaum, PGM, Wanda Fisher, PGM, Don Jelinek, PGP, Cathy Wagner and Carol Hudkins, Elected Grand Officers, Carl Plants, Susie Baker, Gwen Hurst-Anderson, Appointed Grand Representives; Mark Poston, NE in Lousiana, Bridget Anderson, Minn in NE, Albert Fisher, Australia in NE, Gwen Hurst-Anderson and Susie Baker, District Supervisors, Bruce Baker, Grand Senior Warden, and Grand Companions; Dot Mattern, Wendell, Wagner, Larry Hudkins, Carolyn Plants, Bruce Baker, Jim Batie and Janice Nitz.
WM Janice Nitz and WP John Kirby thanked all for coming and complimented the officers on their excellent Initation work.
Sis. Janice and Bro. John honored their appointed officers with a saying about each and presented them with flowers.
We will be having our third Initation for the year again soon. WP John reminded all of the upcoming Fish Fry on Sat., May 15.
Martha Washington Chapter 153
Charlotte Contatore, Corr.
FISH FRYGEORGE WASHINGTON
LODGE 2504430 N. 70th St.
SECOND SATURDAY OFEVERY MONTH APRIL-SEPT
4:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Adults $9.00Under 12 $4.00
Includes potatoes, coleslaw, baked beans,
bread, and coffee or iced tea
Hotdog $3.00Hamburger $4.00
ALL YOU CAN EAT!Public Welcome
STATED MEETING
Lodge was open with WM Troy Tuhey in the east. We read 2 new petitions. Keep up the good work!! Bro. Dan Kahler recently had knee surgery. While he is doing fine, his mom died early in April. Our condolences Bro. Dan!
FISH FRY
The first fish fry of the season was a success. Thanks to all our hard workers who helped out. We are in constant need of help at the fish frys. Please volunteer! Next one is May 15.
George Washington Lodge 250Troy Tuhey, Corr.
MAY2010 THEMASONICNEWS PAGE�
The history of the Eastern Star is divided into three Eras:
The First Era extended from 1850 to 1866, under the leadership of Dr. Rob Morris, Poet Laureate of Masonry.
The Second Era extended from 1860 to 1876, under the leadership of Robert Ma coy of New York.
The Third Era extends from 1876, when the General Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, was established to the present time.
Of these eras, the first is perhaps the most important as it prepared the way for the other two.
The real origin of the Eastern Star, like Masonry, will always be shrouded in mystery. Many researchers believe it had a French origin as early as 1703. By some, this is claimed to be the first inception of “Female Masonry” or “Androgynous Degrees” -- (degrees for both men and women).
There appeared at this time, to be a demand for “Side Degrees” or Degrees conferred on ladies, and quite a list sprang up -- “Heroines of Jericho”, “Danger in the Dark”, “Tall Cedars of Lebanon”, etc. These
were extensively used but soon fell into decay, for lack of lasting worth.
As to the real origin of Eastern Star Degrees in its Initiatory form, there is not the least shadow of doubt that the honor belongs to Dr. Rob Morris and its real origin comes under the First Era.
Dr. Morris had traveled many years. He had written many books on Masonry which are now valued references in m a n y M a s o n i c L i b r a r i e s .
Never quite satisfied that all the good in Masonry should be confined to men, Dr. Morris felt that Masonry should be for the whole family. But by the laws of that Ancient Order, women are not eligible for its degrees. Knowing he could not change the Ancient Landmarks of Masonry, Dr. Morris sought some method by which women could share with the Masonic Brother the same inspiration that “prompts man to noble deeds.”
Although he harbored these feelings for years, it wasn’t until 1850, while confined to his home after an accident, that Dr. Morris fully
developed the Eastern Star Degrees in their present initiatory form.
During this time, he carefully thought out the symbolism and significance of the floor plan and the corps of officers. He conferred the degrees upon his wife and daughters, and some neighbors, presumably having an idea to clothe the ladies with certain words or signs whereby they might make themselves known to Master Masons.
These signs and so-called mysteries of the Order were communicated freely to all Master Masons and their relatives. Dr. Morris and other prominent Master Masons gave many lectures and conferred the degrees on many ladies throughout the nation. Excerpted from the General Grand Chapter website: http://www.easternstar.org/
‘Make a Joyful Noise’is the Theme for the May 11-13
Eastern Star Grand Session
“Make a Joyful Noise” will be the theme of the 2010 Grand Session of the Order of the Eastern Star, set to open Tue., May 11, at Pershing Center.
During the May 11-13 Session, Pershing will become a huge Chapter Room, its floor covered in red carpet surrounded by white fences and flowers. Eastern Star
members in formal attire will add to the festive atmosphere.
A d d o r g a n m u s i c , entertainment, reports , and business sessions and you have a small picture of the Eastern Star Grand Session.
Besides Pershing, other venues will host Session events: the Scot t ish Rite Temple, Masonic Temple at 1635 L St.,
and Holiday Inn Downtown.All Eastern Star members
are welcome and must bring a 2009 or 2010 dues receipt and a $2.00 registration fee. Some parts of the Session are open to the public and offer members good opportunities to show non-members the b e a u t y o f t h i s M a s o n i c organization for men and women.
On New Hampshire Avenue NW in Washington, D.C., sits the magnificent International Temple, one of the pride and joy possessions of the members of the Order of the Eastern Star. The Temple has a rich and exciting history that began at the turn of the century in Washington, D.C.
Formerly the Perry Belmont Mansion, it was started in 1906 and completed in 1909, at the then-extravagant cost of $1.5 million. Perry and Jessie Belmont built the mansion for the specific purpose of entertaining not only notables of Washington, but also dignitaries from all over the world. The building was only used during the Washington party season (about two months each year) and special events. It was designed by Eugene Sanson, a famous French architect who had designed many grand homes and chateaus in Europe. He was renowned for his use of light and space, and for his beautiful staircases. Long before the acquisition of the building by the General Grand Chapter in 1935, it was a site of elegance, gracious and grand hospitality, of distinguished diplomats, world-renowned guests and romance. The Belmonts entertained lavishly and had a staff of approximately 34 servants. They used the house from 1909 to 1925. It was then closed and put on the market for sale with the stipulation that it could
not be altered for 20 years after purchase. The mansion stood empty and unused until 1935, when the General Grand Chapter purchased it. Mr. Belmont, being a Mason and happy to be selling it to someone who would take care of it, sold it to The General Grand Chapter for $100,000. As part of our agreement with Mr. Belmont, The General Grand Chapter law states the Right Worthy Grand Secretary must live in the Temple. So the building is still a working private residence as well as our headquarters.
Many furnishings, including several Tiffany vases, 37 oil paintings, Louis the 14th and 15th furniture, china and oriental rugs were included with the purchase of the Temple and are still on display for our members and their guests to enjoy on tours.
Chandeliers throughout are gold gilt and hung with hand-carved rock crystal drops – some with amethyst as well. There are eleven fireplaces, most with hand-carved marble mantles. All the marble in the house was brought from Italy, all the wood from Germany and all the metal fixtures from France.
History , pictures, and captions from http://www.easternstar.org. The pictures seen here do not constitute all the rooms in the mansion. More pictures can be found on the on-line tour at the above mentioned website.
The International Temple, A.K.A. International Headquarters
The History of the Order of the Eastern Star
The State Dining Room’s most expensive feature is the ceiling. During one of the Belmont’s trips to Eu-rope, they visited one of the Doge Palaces in Ven-ice. In one room Mrs. Belmont commented on how much she liked the ceiling - so Mr. Belmont bought it for her. The entire ceiling was disassembled and brought to the United States. This room was de-signed around the ceiling. The marble window cas-ings and wainscoting are copied from the palace from which the ceiling came. Also from Europe are the stone fireplace and four touchier lamps. Unfor-tunately the original artwork and chandeliers from the ceiling were sold by Mr. Belmont about a year before the Eastern Star bought the building. As part of the recent renovation of this floor, donations were requested to finance new paintings and chande-liers. A local artist was commissioned to paint the new panels with the Eastern Star symbols as the theme, and the chandeliers were ordered from Ita-ly. The results are spectacular and this room is one of the most remembered features of the mansion.
As you would expect, the Ballroom is the largest room in the house. It is 65’ x 30’ and dominates the center of the house on the second floor. The room is lit by two massive Louis xV crystal chan-deliers and a beautiful skylight with natural and electric light. The mirror above the marble mantle is 7’ x 14’. The rug is 22’ x 37’. At the West end of the room is a Steinway model B piano covered in gold leaf.Around the top of the room adjoin-ing the 32’ high celing are eight enormous hand carved oak panels. The rest of the walls are cov-ered fabric with carved oak trim and decoration.
The round Music Room has elaborate gold fili-gree covering the walls, ceiling, and even the doors. There are five magnificent floor-to-ceil-ing windows, draped in gold brocade. This room is used as the chapel by the Eastern Star and con-tains 19 French music/ball room chairs, which are extremely delicate.
PAGE� THEMASONICNEWS MAY2010
Grand Chapter of Alberta - Alzheimer Research - Cystic Fibrosis Research
Grand Chapter of British Columbia and Yukon - supports four major cancer centers
Grand Chapter of California - UCLA Jonsson Cancer Clinic - Relay for Life
Grand Chapter of Conneticut - administers and contributes to the OES Hospital Endowment Fund which helps to support residents at the Masonic Geriatric Healthcare Center in Wallingford, CT and the Ashlar of Newtown Health-care Facility in Newtown, CT.
Grand Chapter of Delaware - The Summer Benefit for Handi-capped Children is a project started
many years ago by the members of the Eastern Star in Delaware. The sole purpose was and continues to be to “make a difference” in the lives of our handicapped children.
Grand Chapter of Florida - R.E.S.T. (Resident Eastern Stars Today) The purpose of R.E.S.T. is to provide emergency and/or fi-nancial assistance to eligible Florida Eastern Star sisters enabling them to remain in their own home. If an assisted living facility is neces-sary for medical or personal care, an eligible sister may utilize fa-cilities near her own environment, family and friends. The total cost of the use of this facility may not exceed the cost of care in the Masonic Home. The individual monthly assistance shall not ex-ceed $750.00 per month, the exact amount based upon actual need.
Grand Chapter of Iowa - Osteoarthritis research
Grand Chapter of Kansas - Cancer research - Heart research - Alzheimer’s research - Ronald McDonald Tabby Tops
Grand Chapter of Kentucky - Multiple Sclerosis research
Grand Chapter of Montana - Heart research
Grand Chapter of New Hampshire - 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Learn-ing Centers for Dyslexic Children
Grand Chapter of New York - Nursing scholarships
Grand Chapter of North Carolina - owns a camp for girls lo-cated in the Blueridge Mountains
Grand Chapter of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island - Special Olympics
Grand Chapter of Ohio - Duchene’s Muscular Dystrophy
Grand Chapter of Oklahoma - Jimmy Everest Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders in Children
100 years ago in Nebraska Eastern Star...
By Cathy Wagner, Grand Secretary
Editor’s note: I asked Grand Secretary Cathy Wagner to search the Grand Chapter records for items of interest from the grand
communication a century ago. Here is what she found:
THIRTY-FIFTH ANNUAL SESSION
MAY 10, 11, 12, 1910MASONIC TEMPLE
OMAHA, NEBRASKA
T h e 3 5 t h “ A n n u a l Communication” was presided over by Mrs. Hattie M. Scott, “Grand Matron” from Stromsburg and Mr. D. E. Green, “Grand Patron” from Lincoln. [The “Worthy” was not used in referring to the top two officers at that time.] Ten Past Grand Matrons and 7 Past Grand Patrons were introduced and the Grand Matron and Grand Patron from Iowa were presented as Distinguished Guests.
Our Grand Chapter was growing and the Grand Matron reported that she had had invitations from 120 Chapters who had asked for a visit from the Grand Matron. She had arranged dates to visit with 96 of those, but because of “her personal health and changes in the train schedules” she was only able to visit 69 Chapters. Later in the Session the Grand Patron recommended that because “the Jurisdiction had grown to such a magnitude that the Grand Matron should be relieved of the arduous duty of visiting every Chapter.” He recommended that the state be divided into six districts and that a Sister be appointed to each district and that she report to the Grand Matron on the condition of the Chapters in her district.
The Grand Matron also reported that on Feb. 24th she met “with several O.E.S. girls at Nebraska University in Lincoln for the purpose of organizing a sorority—Achoth Sorority.” This sorority was organized for Eastern Star girls and for alumni. The Grand Matron felt that such a Sorority would “aide, comfort and protect our girls who go from our country towns to Lincoln” and she encouraged families to inform their daughters about the new sorority.
It was reported that Geneva Chapter No. 180 lost its Charter and other supplies in a fire and it was recommended that another Charter be issued free of charge. Anna Simpson, Grand Secretary reported that there were 180 Chartered Chapters and that 5 Chapters were awaiting Charters. The total membership was 13,516. [This
year’s report shows a membership on Jan. 1, 2010 of 9,149 with 100 Chartered Chapters as of January 1st]. One thousand one hundred eighty-two members were initiated. [One hundred eighteen were initiated in 2009.]
On Tuesday evening the Grand Officers performed the Ceremony of Initiation with courtesy candidates. Special music was provided by a quartette composed of members of Adah Chapter No. 52 of South Omaha. On Wednesday evening the Past Grand Matrons and Past Grand Patrons performed the Funeral Ceremony. Two “addendas” were also presented at the Session: “The Pilgrims” and the “Floral Work”. It was noted that Wayne Chapter No. 194 performed the “Floral Work” and they were commended as this was the first time any of the members of that Chapter had attended a Grand Chapter Session.
A motion was passed allowing any member to have a Proceedings Book at a cost of twenty-five cents. [Who could have known how we would now treasure this wonderful history which allows us to peek back in time and visit this Session—all for twenty-five cents!] Six hundred twenty-two dollars was received for the Eastern Star Home Fund. Closing balance at the end of the year was $4,009.68.
It seemed to be a rather uneventful year, and yet a very busy one with new Charters being issued to new Chapters and many, many initiations being held—but then in those days that was a normal occurrence each and every year.
The marble Grand Stair-case takes you up to the level of the grand public entertaining rooms. Tow-ering above the stairway is a beautiful plaster ceil-ing with crystal chande-liers with Czechoslovaki-an crystal. The banister is wrought iron with Verde patina and brass accents. We are told this staircase was considered the most beautiful one the archi-tect had ever created. The stairs are spaced with a very gentle rise so that you can walk with ease and grace.
This room is named the Gold Room, because of its best-known feature. In 1908, while the house was being built, the Belmonts toured the building. When they got to this room, Mrs. Belmont stated that it wasn’t interesting enough. So Mr. Belmont spent $250,000 on gold leaf to gild all of the trim in the room. He also commissioned 10 painted pan-els of “the birds of paradise” by a French artist.
International HeadquartersContinued from page 5
EASTERN STAR, MAKING A DIffERENCE
Every year the Order of the Eastern Star supports many charitable causes. Some examples are: Multiple Sclerosis, Cancer Research, Arthritis Research, Heart Research, Knights Templar Eye Foundation, Shriners Hospital for Crippled Children, orphanages, and veterans hospitals. Most Grand Jurisdictions also support three main causes besides some of the aforementioned ones: youth, some type of home for children or the aged, and the ESTARL program as defined on page 7. However, these are but a tiny cross section of where members of the Eastern Star put their time and financial resources. On this page you will find excerpts on how Eastern Star is really making a difference in our world. All information presented is from the respective Grand Jurisdications websites.
In Alberta, Canada, 2 Eastern Star Chapters provide a han-dibus for use in Calgary. Info from the Grand Chap-ter of Alberta’s website : http://www.easternstar.ab.ca/
The Worthy Grand Matron of Massachusetts project in 1997 was donating a disaster trailer to the American Red Cross. Pictured are Worthy Grand Matron, Sister Janet C. Hutchins and Wor-thy Grand Patron, Brother Raymond C. Oberg. Info from the Grand Chapter of Massachusetts’ website : http://www.oestar.org//
- Buddy Walk for Down’s Syn-drome Association of Oklahoma - Ronald McDonald House
Grand Chapter of Oregon - Cancer Research, Heart Fund, ESTARL, Home Endowment
Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania - four Masonic Villages for senior members
Grand Chapter of Quebec - Parkinson’s Society of Quebec - Crohn’s and Colitis Founda-tion of Canada - Children’s Wish Foundation - Juvenile Diatetes
Grand Chapter of South Carolina - Hospice assistance
Grand Chapter of South Dakota - Assisting Children to Smile also known as the “A.C.T.S. pro-gram,” is an Official program of the Grand Chapter of South Da-kota, OES to provide orthodontic care for eligible children in South Dakota. Orthodontic treatment can have a profound effect not only on the physical health of a child but also their emotional well being. The A.C.T.S. program innovative approach to providing orthodontic care for a deserv-ing but under served population.
G.M. Hattie Scott
MAY2010 THEMASONICNEWS PAGE�
Schedule of EventsEASTERN STAR
Grand Chapter Session
SUNDAY, MAY 9
10:00 a.m. • Church Service Grand Officers and Companions Rev. Gwen Hurst-Anderson (153) Scottish Rite Temple., 332 S Centennial Mall 12:30 p.m. • Grand Officers Rehearsal Scottish Rite Temple., 332 S Centennial Mall 6:30 p.m. • Grand Officers and Companions Dinner Holiday Inn Downtown
MONDAY, MAY 10
8:30 a.m. • Grand Officers Rehearsal Pershing Center 11:30 a.m. • District Grand Supervisors Luncheon Holiday Inn Downtown 12 Noon • Grand Ducks Luncheon (Order from Menu) Old Chicago Pizza, 826 P Street
REHEARSALS: (Pershing Center) 1:00 p.m. Grand Pages 1:15 p.m. Grand Officers and Grand Pages 2:00 p.m. District Grand Supervisors 2:30 p.m. Grand Representatives 3:00 p.m. Assistant Grand Warders and Grand Sentinels
5:00 p.m. • “Getting Ready to Ring” Banquet -Grand Pages -Assistant Grand Warders -Assistant Grand Sentinels Holiday Inn Downtown 7:15 p.m. • Rehearsal - All Groups, Pershing Center
TUESDAY, MAY 11
8:45 a.m. • Rehearsal - All Groups, Pershing Center 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. • Credential Registration Pershing Center 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. • Registration of Distinguished Guests Holiday Inn Downtown
9:45 a.m. • 2010 Worthy Matrons & Worthy Patrons Rehearsal Pershing Center
11:30 a.m. • Past Grand Matrons and Past Grand Patrons Luncheon Holiday Inn Downtown 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. • Distinguished Guests Reception Holiday Inn Downtown/Lower Level 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. • Standing Committee Meetings
5:00 p.m. • “Make a Joyful Noise” Membership Banquet Holiday Inn Downtown
6:30 p.m. • INFORMAL OPENING • Greetings City and State Representatives • Presentation to the Salvation Army • Flag Ceremony • Masonic Youth Groups United Cavalcade of Flags
• Service Dog • Presentations - Masonic Bodies - Youth Organizations - Distinguished Guests • Introductions - Grand Pages, Assistant Grand Warders and Grand Sentinels and Grand Companions
WEDNESDAY, MAY 12
6:45 a.m. • “Ding a Ling, Rise and Ring” Grand Representatives Assn. Breakfast Holiday Inn Downtown
8:00 a.m. to 12 Noon • Credential Registration Pershing Center
9:00 a.m. • Call to Order • RITUALISTIC OPENING • Introduction and Tributes -March Directors -Grand Companions -Worthy Matrons & Worthy Patrons - 2009 and 2010 Ruths and Marthas • Reports of Grand Officers and Committees
11:45 a.m. • “Ring around the World” Distinguished Guests Luncheon Holiday Inn Downtown 11:45 a.m. • Secretaries and Treasurers Rose Assn. Luncheon Holiday inn Downtown 11:45 a.m. • Past and Present District Grand Supervisors Luncheon Scottish Rite Temple
1:15 p.m. • Call to Order Pershing Center • Report of the Credential Committee • Election of Grand Officers and Trustee • Reports of Boards and Committees • Business of Grand Chapter 4:45 p.m. “Long Live KOES” Banquet Line Officers, Worthy Matrons, Worthy Patrons, Assoc. Matrons, Assoc. Patrons, Conductresses, and Assoc. Conductresses Holiday Inn Downtown 4:45 p.m. • Past Appointed Grand Officers Banquet Holiday Inn Downtown 6:15 p.m. • Call to Order Pershing Center • Program by Children from the Masonic-Eastern Star Home for Children at Fremont • Presentation of Awards • Ceremony of Initiation by Grand Officers 10:30 p.m. • “Ringin’ Up A Storm” Snack Party Pershing Center, lower level
THURSDAY, MAY 13
9:00 a.m. • Call to Order Pershing Center • Business of Grand Chapter • Committee Reports • Guest ESTARL Speaker10:15 a.m. • Memorial Hour, Grand Chaplain11:45 a.m. • 50-Year Members “Sands of Time” Luncheon Masonic Temple, 1635 L St. 1:15 p.m. • Call to Order Pershing Center • Reports: Children’s Home Board of Directors Nebraska Masonic Home Executive Director • Recognition Chapters Obtaining Proficiency • Introductions: 50-Year Members • Farewell Remarks6:00 p.m. • Musical Program Pershing Center 6:30 p.m. • Call to Order • Installation of Grand Officers • Closing of Grand Chapter
A li t t le-known Eastern Star program offers financial a s s i s t a n c e t o s t u d e n t s preparing to become ministers, missionaries, or to serve in other full-time Christian vocations.
Created in 1952 by the General Grand Chapter, the Eastern Star Training Awards for Religious Leadership program has been sponsored by the Nebraska Grand Chapter since 1953.
SCHOLARSHIPS
C o m m o n l y k n o w n a s ESTARL, th i s program is funded each year by voluntary gif ts and memorials given by Eastern Star Chapters and members across the state and by generous contributions from the Grand Chapter of Nebraska.
ONE YEAR
Awards are made for one year, but applicants may reapply. A six-member ESTARL committee meets twice yearly to make the awards. Policy favors the more advanced students when a choice must be made.
ESTARL scholarships are usable at schools anywhere in the United States. Nebraska has even sent ESTARL awards to European theological seminaries.
ELIGIBILITY
The ESTARL committee determines eligibility. Funds are used for applicants having a legal status in Nebraska. If a foreign student applies, she or he must be attending a Nebraska college. Awards are normally made for post-graduate study. There is no requirement for race or creed.
There is no requirement f o r M a s o n i c o r E a s t e r n Star aff i l ia t ion. However , it is desirable to have an Eastern Star Chapter sponsor or recommend the applicant. Recommending an applicant does not financially obligate the Chapter but emphasizes the appl icant’s dedicat ion and s incer i ty of purpose.
APPLICATION
A p p l i c a t i o n f o r m s a r e a v a i l a b l e f r o m :
Nebraska Eastern StarBox 156Fremont, NE 68026-0156
A completed application must be accompanied by a photograph and three references, from a minister, a school official, and a community leader. A transcript of grades also should be sent.
ESTARL Program
DID YOU KNOW?
The Masonic News Inc. was founded in 1921.
The subscriber base for the Masonic News i s a round 2500 .
The Masonic News has been online since October, 2006, at www.masonicnews.org
Board of Grand Supervisors: L-R: Billie Mattern, WGM; Jerrie Wilcox, AGM; Carol Hudkins, Grand Conductress and Cathy Wagner, Grand Secretary.
PAGE� THEMASONICNEWS MAY2010
“Make a Joyful Noise” May 11, 12, 13, 2010
Pershing Center, Lincoln, Nebraska
WHERE ARE GRAND
JuRISDICTIONS Of EASTERN
STAR?Under General Grand Chapter:
ALABAMAALBERTAARIZONA
ARKANSASBOLIVIA
BRITISH COLUMBIA & YU-KON
CALIFORNIACOLORADO
CONNECTICUTDELAWARE
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIAFLORIDAGEORGIA
IDAHOILLINOISINDIANA
IOWAKANSAS
KENTUCKYLOUISIANA
MAINEMANITOBAMARYLAND
MASSACHUSETTSMICHIGAN
MINNESOTAMISSISSIPPIMISSOURIMONTANANEBRASKA
NEVADANEW BRUNSWICKNEW HAMPSHIRE
NEW MEXICONORTH CAROLINANORTH DAKOTA
NOVA SCOTIA & PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
OHIOOKLAHOMA
ONTARIOOREGON
PENNSYLVANIAPUERTO RICO
QUEBECRHODE ISLAND
SAO PAULO (BRAZIL)SASKATCHEWAN
SOUTH CAROLINASOUTH DAKOTA
TENNESSEETEXASUTAH
VERMONTVIRGINIA
WASHINGTONWEST VIRGINIA
WISCONSINWYOMING
Not under General Grand ChapterAUSTRALIA
NEW JERSEYNEW YORKSCOTLAND
Source: General Grand Chapter
One of the primary charities supported by the Nebraska Order of the Eastern Star is the children’s home in Fremont.
The Masonic-Eastern Star Home for Children located at the intersection of highways 30 and 77 has been providing quality child care for over 90 years.
The Chi ldren’s Home was founded by two fraternal organizations in 1912, the Masonic Lodge and the Order of the Eastern Star, to provide care for homeless children.
The purpose of the Home is to provide quality care for children who have been separated from their homes because of death, divorce, separation, neglect, abuse, or inability to adjust to their present living situation. The Home seeks to provide an environment of love, security, and acceptance where a child can grow and develop as an individual.
Each application for admission is evaluated and maintenance fees are based on ability to pay. No child is ever excluded because of inadequate funds.
The Children’s Home is located on 70 acres of land. The facilities include four large homes for the children, an administration building, which houses a gymnasium and a chapel, an arts-crafts and maintenance building, a small farm, the administrator’s and director of child care services homes, a large grass play area and lighted tennis court. The children’s residences include two girl’s houses and two boy’s houses. They are spacious homes with ample room for the children to have some “space” to themselves. The homes provide a majority of the children with their own private room. Each residence has its own family unit. Meals are served family style and each
house participates in basic family activities, such as vacations, eating out, going to movies, shopping trips and other recreation endeavors.
Every child receives a monthly allowance plus an hourly wage for any work performed outside their residence. The children are encouraged to participate in school, church and other community activities. All school fees and any special assessments are paid by the Home. The Home has a very active 4-H program with its own heard of 4-H calves, lambs and goats. All the children are urged to participate.
Each child has a membership to the YMCA plus a season pass to the public swimming pools. Special summer activities such as camping and canoeing trips; field trips to the zoo and other places of historical interest are coordinated by recreational aides.
The day to day operation of the Children’s Home is the responsibility of the Administrator who is assisted by the Director of Child Care services who directs the admissions and care of the children and supervises the child care workers; and by the Director of Buildings, Grounds and 4-H whose responsibilities include the maintenance of the buildings, grounds, farm, and the 4-H program.
Anyone seeking information on admitting a child should d i r ec t the i r inqu i r i e s to :
AdministratorMasonic-Eastern Star Home
for ChildrenBox 1327
Fremont NE 68025(402) 721-1185
Check out the home’s website at http://www.meshc.org/
Arial view of the Masonic-East-ern Star Home for Children in Fremont.
4-H is a big part of the children’s ex-perience at the Children’s Home.
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AIM & GOAL:
Preserving our past; preparing for our future. MOTTO:
Life’s experiences coming thick and fast are the souls appointed means of growth. WATCHWORDS:
Courage, Determination, and Dedication SCRIPTURES:
“Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth; make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise.” - Psalm 98:4
“Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord.” - Psalm 150:6
“For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace; the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.” - Isaiah 55:12
“When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.” - Matthew 2:10 COLORS: Gold, Silver, Bronze, Black (& Red) FLOWER: Chrysanthemums FUN EMBLEMS: Bells, the Hourglass, Cardinals
HONORED STATIONS: Ruth and Martha GRAND OFFICERS: Joy Ringers GRAND COMPANIONS: Ding-a-Lings PROJECTS:
- Masonic-Eastern Star Home for Children- Masonic Home in Plattsmouth- ESTARL- Youth Groups- General Grand Chapter Projects
SPECIAL PROJECT:
Programs and projects of the Salvation Army – proceeds from merchandise sold at the sales table and from donations from the members will be given to “fill the kettle”, the most recognized fund raiser for the Salvation Army.
2010 District Grand Supervisors:
Row 1: Gwen Hurst-Anderson, Cathy Wagner (Grand Secretary); Billie Mattern (Worthy Grand Matron); Jerrie Wilcox (Associate Grand Matron); Carol Hudkins(Grand Conductress); Sheila Speck. (Billie, Jerrie and Carol are the Board of Grand Supervisors)
Row 2: Judy Wehrbein; Sharlene Coulter; Wynona Bolton, Joyce Porter, Sharron Gilson,Dottie Arent, Terri Sherman, Sharon Bose.
Row 3: Chris Kennedy, Kerri Straub, Brenda McGuire, Anita Sohm, Debra Williamson, Susie Baker and Joyce Royal. Photo courtesy of the Grand Chapter Office
MAY2010 THEMASONICNEWS PAGE�
INITIATION
We were honored to take in two members: Sis. Kristi Thornburg and Bro. Donald Dissmeyer. Congratulations to our new members.
SCHOOL OF INSTRUCTION
Our School of Instruction was Sat., Mar. 27 with Sis. Judy Wehrbein, our District Grand Supervisor. Lots of good information was learned by everyone. Lunch was served by Kensington.
BEST CHOICE LABELS
The Chapter would like to thank Bro. Gale and Sis. Betty Paxton for gathering Best Choice Labels. Collecting Labels has been a fundraiser for several years. Save the bar code from the Best Choice products and turn them in to the Chapter. Thank You.
COURTESY REPORT AND JOYS
Our thoughts and prayers have been with Sis. Eleanor Miller and Sis. Janice Janssen for the loss of their
son/brother on Feb. 10. Our thoughts and prayers have been with Sis. Susan Campbell and Bro. Matt Campbell for the loss of husband/brother Bro. Fred Campbell on Mar. 10. Our thoughts and prayers have gone out to these families for their losses.
Bro. Vern Stolte had a slight stroke. He and Sis. Ida are now living at Clark Jeary Manor.
Bro. Leonard Martin is glad it’s baseball season again, but his team lost. Sis. Tracy Wright’s son Dawson is doing well in the Second grade at school and is working in the gifted program. Sis. Margie Riemann is enjoying retirement, and she and Bro. Ralph relaxed in Arizona during the month of February. Worthy payment for all of Margie’s years of hard work.
Sis. Dyana Dissmeyer and Bro. Kevin Thornburg were both interns at work, but have been promoted to permanent employees. Congratulations.
Cotner Temple Building had a spaghetti supper April 30 at the lodge. Remember to pay your 2010 dues of $15.00 to our Secretary Nancy Weers - 7240 Colby - Lincoln, NE - 68505.
CHARTER DAY
Electa Chapter hosted its annual Charter Day luncheon on Mar. 20 with nearly 50 in attendance. The dining room was tastefully decorated with Spring themed decorations. Worthy Matron Betty Talley welcomed all and thanked everyone for attending. Chaplain Hershel Talley offered the blessing on the meal and the afternoon’s festivities.
Following the delicious meal, W.M. Betty introduced the presenters for the afternoon’s entertainment: Gwyneth Talley and Simran Sohi from the Diverse Students Association at UNL who performed a traditional Pakistani dance. Gwyneth and Simran then shared a bit of background about the dance they had performed. They also answered questions from the audience and talked briefly about their summer plans
and what they were majoring in at UNL. Thank you Simran and Gwyneth for a delightful program!
Worthy Patron Don Frank did a marvelous job telling the assembled group about some of the history of Electa Chapter. He also introduced the Past Grand Officers, Past Worthy Matrons and Worthy Patrons, as well as 25+ year members.
A round of hearty applause was given to our luncheon caterer, Julie Harper, who was ably assisted by her daughter and members of the Talley family. Members of Bethel 27 and adult sponsors waited tables and served the luncheon. The afternoon concluded with visiting. Attendees also enjoyed the opportunity to look at the historic photo albums which were on display.
Electa’s April Stated meeting had been moved to Apr. 10 at 7:30 p.m. because of the Easter holiday.
CITY WIDE LUNCHEON
Electa Kensington hosted its annual City-wide luncheon on Apr. 1 with approximately thirty people in attendance. We were pleased to have as our guests, members from Temple, Columbia, Starcraft, and Myrtle Chapters. We were also joined by our speaker for the afternoon; Rev. Mike McMurtry who serves as volunteer chaplain with the Lincoln Police and Fire Department Chaplaincy program.
The tables were very festive with Easter and Spring themed decorations provided by Electa Kensington President, Sis. Marion Kantner. One lucky person at each table was the winner of the centerpiece. Each person in attendance also received a table favor – an Easter Bunny “snow-globe.” Those in attendance enjoyed a delightful array of salads and quick breads with rainbow sherbet and cookies for dessert. Thank you to our luncheon committee of Sisters Wilma Chestnut, Gladys Adkins, and Mary Adkins.
F o l l o w i n g l u n c h a n d a wonderful time of visiting, Rev. McMurty gave an informal presentation about the establishment of the Lincoln Police and Fire Department Chaplaincy program
and the services it provides followed by a time for questions. At the close of the program, Electa Kensington presented three dozen teddy-bears to Rev. McMurtry for the Chaplaincy Teddy-bear project.
Following the afternoon’s festivities, members of Electa Kensington held a very brief business meeting to review plans for the Grand Chapter 50-year luncheon which we will host on Thur., May 13 at noon. Members discussed the various duties and signed up to help for different functions on Wednesday and/or Thursday. The DeMolay will be asked to help set up tables and President Marion will visit with Bro. Doug Johnson about having several of the men assist with coffee service.
Sis. Ilah also reviewed for members information, the bill for the teddy bears given to the Teddy Bear project. Kensington will pay for two of the three dozen purchase. An anonymous donor contributed the cost of a third dozen.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned with the Mizpah benediction. Our next meeting will be May 6 at noon. We will have a “bring your own ‘brown-bag’” luncheon and finalize plans for the 50-year luncheon.
Electa Chapter 8Susie Dunn, Correspondentyou, dear friend, for being you.”
--Dee Schuetz 2001-2002 “Our little Grand Secretary Cathy truly is the “Grandest!” She is tiny in stature, but has one of the biggest hearts and two of the the broadest shoulders I have ever known! She certainly made my year as Worthy Grand Matron much easier and a whole lot more fun for our whole “Star Love Celebration” Grand Family just by having her special part of it. We will miss her very much, but I thank her for her services from the bottom of my heart!”
--Donna Carmichael 2002-2003 “Cathy made the year that Don Jelinek and I were in the East so much easier and without her help I don’t know how we would of done it. That was the year we started making much needed changes with a new Red Book. Cathy always had a smile, words of encouragement, great quotes for all of us to live by and hours and hours of devotion to our organization, our family and always put herself last.”
--Cyn Norman 2003-2004 excerpts quoted from the 2004 Proceedings. “I cannot imagine what this year would have been like without you. Your knowledge and love of the Order and for its members continues to amaze me. Not everyone knows the long hours that you work and the many tasks that you take home and yet you always have time for the many calls and requests for help from the members, as well as from me. Your brainchild, the OES Newsletter…has taken the place of the endless letters that once needed to be written and read in Chapter. Thank you for letting me stay at your house the many times when I needed to travel East…”
--Jill Ramsey 2004-2005 quoted from the 2005 Proceedings. “You have been there to give me guidance on ways that various tasks could be accomplished expeditiously from your years experience… You’ve
always had the necessary materials ready for Chapter Centennial celebrations, visits to Chapters considering consolidation and all the preparation for Grand Chapter. Thank you for all of your work.”
--Jan Thoman 2005-2006 quoted from the 2006 Proceedings. “I cannot imagine what this year would have been like without you. I appreciate your knowledge and willingness to help everyone. You have such a kind and loving heart. You always take time for the many calls and requests for assistance by our members. I cannot thank you enough for your support…and we love you for it.”
--Betty Kirby 2006-2007 quoted from 2007 Proceedings. “In our work, we are admonished that a “friend always walks beside you” and you have certainly been that friend for me. I don’t know what I would have done without your guidance and support this past year. Your passion for our Order is boundless and your knowledge is invaluable. There maybe people who wear an “attitude” pin such as yours, but you truly live your life exemplifying that “Attitude is Everything.” Your love of your work and for our Order is such an asset to our Grand Jurisdiction.”
--Betty Garwood 2007-2008 “The office of Grand Secretary is unlike any other. It is a 24/7 job when meetings are scheduled on weekends and, in order to assist Chapters, any week night. Grand Family events and activities fill many open weekends in addition to 15-20 Grand Officer Visitations each year. There are committee meetings, Supervisors Schools, Proceedings, budgets, audits, questions, deadlines, annual reports, financial reports, scholarships, grants and educational loans to administer, newsletters and many regular mailings throughout the year. And that is just the tip of the iceberg! Nebraska Grand Chapter and I have been very lucky to have Cathy and her crazy
ATTITUDE! She certainly made my job easier. I hope she carries her grand ATTITUDE into retirement just as it carried her through days of labor on behalf of Grand Chapter.”
--Wanda Fisher 2008-2009 quoted from the 2009 Proceedings. “How efficiently you do your job and then go well beyond what is expected of you! You are always kind, helpful and considerate in all you do. Your love of the Order is true evidence of a dedicated Secretary and member of the Order.”
--Bill ie Mattern 2009-2010 “Cathy is a little dynamo, full of vim and vigor. She is an asset to our organization. She truly lives our Obligation. She is a JOY to be around.”
Nebraska has been blessed to have a Grand Secretary who for eleven years has gone above and beyond the call of duty time and time again. The Past Grand Matrons touched briefly on a few of the qualities which have made Cathy Wagner a successful Grand Secretary and tremendous asset to Nebraska Grand Chapter. Cathy’s love of the Order and care and concern for the Eastern Star members in Nebraska places her highly among those memorable women who have preceded her in the office of Grand Secretary of the Grand Chapter of Nebraska OES.
Cathy would be the first to want to recognize her helpmate of nearly 47 years as Brother Wendell helped her when it came to packing up for Grand Chapter and in so many other ways during her tenure as Grand Secretary. Also retiring with Cathy is her long time office assistant Betty Kucera. Cathy and Betty shared a Chapter, they shared an office and certainly they have shared the work and a wealth of wonderful Eastern Star memories. Cathy and Betty will be honored with a Retirement Tea on April 30th at the Grand Chapter office in Fremont. Happy Retirement, Cathy, and thank you!
Cathy Wagner - Cont. from page 1
Electa KensingtonSusie Dunn, Correspondent
Columbia Chapter 275Nancy Weers, Correspondent
Bob Bennie Wealth Management1601 Old Cheney Rd.
Lincoln, NE 68512402-421-2626
Securities offered through LPL FinancialMember FINRA/SIPC
Bob Bennie and Staff want to thank the Military for our Freedom!
Please remember to thank our active men and women
of the Military or Veteran.
Lincoln Valley Scottish RiteRiteCare Clinic
Jewelry Sales Fundraising EventSaturday, August 7, 20108:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
Lincoln Scottish Rite Masonic Center332 Centennial Mall South
We are accepting donations of any jewelry: new, vintage, costume, and old. You can leave your dona-tion at the Scottish Rite Office or call Bruce Wood at 435-2144 or Dyann Rupp at 450-7068 to arrange a time to have it picked up.
The Lincoln Scottish Rite Preservation Foundation is registered with the IRS as a 501 ()(3) corporation and all donations to the Foundation are tax-deductible.
PAGE10 THEMASONICNEWS MAY2010
MasonicYouth
Support Masonic Youth
Job’s DaughtersRainbow for Girls
DeMolayAcacia Fraternity
A BUSY FEW MONTHS
Lincoln Assembly 6 has been busy over the past two months. During March, members began work on the scrapbook of the past year’s events. The scrapbook is entered in competition at Grand Assembly in June. Members also held a silent auction of a variety of items from Mar. 20 to 28 at the Scottish Rite. Funds raised from the auction will be used to help with Assembly expenses, including scholarships to assist members with Grand and Supreme Assembly expenses.
Chili was prepared on Apr. 2 and delivered to those who purchased it from the Assembly for the Final Four weekend. Twenty-nine quarts of chili were made to help raise funds for Worthy Advisor Zoe Maurer’s Centennial Mall project. Thus far, over $1,000.00 has been raised and will be presented to Mayor Chris Beutler sometime in May. Assembly members and adults assisted with the reception for Naphis Temple’s Installation on Apr. 11. The girls
enjoyed an ‘inside out’ night at their regular business meeting on Apr. 13. Everyone wore their clothes inside out for the evening. An initiation ceremony for pledges to Lincoln Assembly was held on Apr. 27. Pledges are girls, aged 10 and under, who would like to become a part of Lincoln Assembly or another Rainbow Assembly when they reach 11 years of age. If you know of a young girl who would benefit from involvement in Rainbow for Girls, please contact Mother Advisor, Jen Birdsall at [email protected].
BOOK DRIVE
Members are continuing to collect books to support the Grand Worthy Advisor’s service project. New and gently used books can be placed in a collection box at the Scottish Rite to assist the Assembly with this project. The book drive will continue through May 25. Those who donate are invited to an ice cream social that evening following the Assembly’s regular meeting.
Lincoln Assembly 6 members Shelby, zoe, Morgan, Emily, Brianna, and Jessica enjoyed an ‘inside out’ clothing night at their regular meeting on April 13. Lorrie Bryant photo
Lincoln Assembly 6Lorrie Bryant, Correspondent
Bethel 63 held an initiation ceremony on March 18. Welcome to Bethel 63, Tiana! Julie Munford photo
INITIATION AND OTHER ACTIVITIES
An initiation ceremony was held on Mar. 18 for Tiana. She joins her aunt, Marissa. Welcome Tiana!
March also found Jobies hosting a prospect bowling activity. (Not too many gutter balls!) Westfield Gateway Mall and Bethel 63 are buddies. All the girls, and prospects met for dinner before venturing over to East Park Plaza to watch “The Last Song”. Reports indicate that this was not the most “cheerful” movie the Bethel has ever attended - but a good movie.
ELECTIONS
Elections were held Apr. 15. CONGRATULATIONS to Kasi Lehn, HQ Elect; also elected into line are Julia Sanford, Sr. Princess; Brooke Schwisow, Jr. Princess; Kristi Thornburg, Guide and Natalie McGuire, Marshall. It was a great night for everyone, all Bethel members, except one, were present.
On April 25, we held
a HIKE presentation and of c o u r s e - - - - P R A C T I C E , PRACTICE, PRACTICE - Grand is just around the corner.
Decisions, decisions, decisions!!! Bethel 63 tries to decide what to have for dinner before heading out to a movie. Julie Munford photo
Bethel 63Julie Munford, Corr.
Bethel 5Deb Kendle, Correspondent
EVENTS AND FUN ACTIVITIES
Bethel 5 has been busy with fun activities and attending functions around Lincoln. First on Mar. 27, Bethel 5 held an Easter Egg Hunt. There were many kids in attendance. Second, on Apr. 24, Bethel 5 got a little exercise. We put on some yellow vests, and picked up 2 miles of Highway 6 between Pleasant Dale and Milford. Next, we attended a HIKE Presentation at Bethel 63 on Apr. 30. Two recipients were present and received their hearing aids. The ladies of Bethel 63 did an awesome job.
INITIATION ON MAY 29
Bethel 5 will be holding an Initiation Ceremony on Sat., May 29 at 3:00 p.m. at 1635 L. St. We are proud to say we will be Initiating 5 new members. All are welcome to attend and support these young ladies.
DINNERS
Do you have a Masonic function that requires someone to help serve your event? Bethel 5 is willing to help. Please contact Kristen Swisher or Deb Kendle to line up Bethel 5..
UPCOMING EVENTS
May 8 - 10:00am-12:00pm Bethel MeetingMay 11 - 6:00-8:30pm Flag Cer-emony for Grand Chapter O.E.S.M a y 2 1 - S e r v e D i n -ner for Lancaster Lodge 54 May 22 - 11:00am-1:00pm Initiation Practice, 1:00-4:00pm Mini_Golf at Adventure Golf (56th & Old Cheney)May 28 - 6:30-10:00pm Melo-drama at Mahoney State Park - Meet at Bethel, leave at 5pm.May 29 - 3:00-5:00pm Initiation.
Please feel free to attend any of our events of business meetings. We love having visitors on the sidelines.
On March 27, Bethel 5 held their First Easter Egg Hunt. The Easter Bunny left candy filled eggs and stuffed bunnies. Fun was had by all. Deb Kendle photo
Bethel 5 stops for a picture before they get started on their Highway Pick-up. Many interesting items were discovered on our adventure. Deb Kendle photo
MAY2010 THEMASONICNEWS PAGE11
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Cotner ComicsDo you have any
final words?
All I have to sayis that I hatethe Masons
I hate Masons!
Very well, now step offone upright regular stepwith your left foot...
The rat who fingered me was a Mason,the cop who arrested me was a Mason,
the witness who testified against me was a Mason,and the judge who sentenced me was a Mason.
Cotner Lodge 297Donald Albrecht, Correspondent
COTNER TEMPLEFACE-LIFT
Last fall the Cotner Temple Board contracted to have Cotner Temple’s crumbling entrance replaced, adding a wheel chair ramp for improved accessibility. In addition, the main and side entry doors were replaced. Just when the new handrails were completed and ready
to be painted, the winter snows began. For months we watched as the bare metal turned from smooth black to a wonderful orange rust.
The Cotner Temple Spring Cleaning was attempted Apr. 10. What a mess! Seven hardy souls sanded, ground, and brushed and were able to remove about half the accumulated rust. Next up, the sand blaster!
UPCOMING CALENDAR OF EVENTS
May 7 - Brownell Elementary School Reading Program bike drawing, 4:00pmMay 8 - Friendship Event and wine tasting, 7:00 p.m.May 17 - Cotner Lodge Past Masters Dinner, 7:00pm, $10 RSVP to Don Albrecht at [email protected] or 402.304.7213May 21 - Brownell Elementary School Carnival, 5:00 - 8:00 pmMay 22 - Cotner Day at the Lake, Picnic, Pawnee Lake, 1:00 pm No park or fishing permit required
No one was present-able enough for a group photo, but gloves tell the story. Don Albrecht photo.
After. Grass, shrubs and a little more paint will complete the project.
Before
North Star Lodge 227Bob Tooker, Correspondent
EA DEGREE
Recently, a Lodge of Entered Apprentice Masons was opened for the purpose of conferring that Degree on Mr. Clayton S Brandt. Conferring the degree had WB Keith Brocksmith in the East, WM Mark Poston in the West and Bro. David Peck in the South. The Candidate was conducted by WB David Sierks as SD and WB Evan Haydon as JD. Stewards were Bro. Allen Plucknett and WB Dennis Mundt and WB Albert Chatfield as Chaplain. Questions were asked and answered by WB Dennis Mundt and WB Evan Haydon. The Second Sections lecture was delivered by WB Albert Chatfield, and the Third Section Lecture delivered by WB Karel Capek. The Charge was delivered by WM Mark Poston.
BUSINESS MEETING
WB Dennis Mundt was the cook for the business meeting dinner. I got there late and didn’t see the offerings but it smelled good. Business was as usual. The annual Lodge financial audit was completed and read at the Business Meeting. The Trustees reported the ceiling was repaired in the main Lodge room and new tiles were installed. It looks good. The ceiling tiles shouldn’t rattle when the furnace fan comes on like in the past. Not much else to report.
SPECIAL THANKS
A special thanks to Bro. Charles Slagle for his most generous contribution to the Lodge
Building Fund. Thank You!
HOST
North Star Lodge will host the Grand Lodge Proficiency Exam of the floor work on Apr. 21 at 7:00 p.m.
A BIRTHDAY ALMOST
A NSP Trooper was patrolling late at night off of a main highway South of Lincoln. He sees a couple in a car, with the interior light brightly glowing. He carefully approaches the car to get a closer look. Then he sees a young man behind the wheel, reading a computer magazine, and notices a young woman in the rear seat, filing her fingernails.
Puzzled by this surprising situation, the trooper walks up to the car and gently raps on the driver’s window. The young man lowered his window. “Uh, yes, Officer?” “The Trooper asks: “What are you doing?” The young man says: Well, Officer, I’m reading a magazine...”
Pointing to the young woman the Trooper asks: “And her, what is she doing?” The young man shrugs: “Sir, I believe she is filing her fingernails.”
Now the Trooper is totally confused. A young couple parked on lovers lane ... and nothing too suspicious is happening! The Trooper asks: “What is your age young man?” “I’m 22 Sir.”
The Trooper then asks: “And her ... what’s her age?” The young man looks at his watch and replies: “She’ll be 18 in 11 minutes!”
Till next month.
BENNETT LODGE BRINGS THREE NEW MASTER
MASONS TO THE FRATERNITY.
On Apr. 20, Bennett lodge
was able to bring three new Master Masons into our beloved fraternity. Two of the young men were Bennett Lodge’s Fellow Crafts, and one young man was courtesy work for George Washington Lodge 250.
I am pleased to announce our newest Masons Masons, Bro. Eric Dinsdale, and Bro. Bradley A Bye II of Bennett Lodge, and Bro. Dylan Robinett from George Washington Lodge 250. If you know and see our newest members please go up and congratulate them on a job well done.
I and the brothers of Bennett Lodge would like to take, at this time, a moment to say how gratefull we are for the assistance of all the brothers whom helped Bennett perform this degree for these young men. The degree was put on only with their
assistance. So with that in mind we thank the following brothers: WM Scott Dodge, Worshipful Master. WB Tom Michaelson who performed multiple functions during the degree. WB Ron Wallick who was Senior Steward and 3rd Ruffiain. WB Wade Kendle who gave the questions in the Q and A. RWB Bruce Watkins who relayed the 2nd section and performed the 2nd Ruffian. WB Greg Mason who relayed the 3rd Section.
Lodges represented at this degree included East Lincoln 210, Lancaster Lodge 54, Liberty Lodge 300, Cotner Lodge 397, George Washington 250, and, of course, Bennet Lodge 94.
The Trestleboard was as follows:
Master: WM Scott DodgeSr. Warden: WB Roger MinerJr. Warden: WB Rick HarrisSr. Deacon: WB Tom MichaelsonJr. Deacon: Bro. Ron Phillips IISr. Steward: WB Ron Wallick
Jr. Steward: Bro. Les NoblePrep. Room: Bro. Tom MorrisseyTreasuser: WB Rick HarrisSecretary: WB Stu EricksonChaplin: WB Rich HarrisQuestions: WB Wade KendleAnswers: WB Roger Miner2nd Section: RWB Bruce Watkins3rd Section: WB Greg MasonCharge: WB Fred Liebers1st Ruffian: WB Stu Erickson2nd Ruffian: RWB Bruce Watkins3rd Ruffian: WB Ron Wallick1st Craftsman: WB Bob Brommer2nd Craftsman: Fred Liebers3rd Craftsman: WB Wade KendleSeafarer: WB Tom MichaelsonWayfarer: Bro Dan Longley
Bro. Dylan was accompanied
from George Washington Lodge 250 by WB Earl Robinett, and WB George Harrison. We are honored that we could assist your request for courtesy work. It is times like these that show the true meaning of Masonry. Thanks again.
Bennet Lodge 94Daniel Longley, Correspondent
REGULAR AND ExEMPLIFICATION OF
THE DEGREES
Myrtle Chapter 94 met on Tues., April 13 at 7:30 p.m. Nineteen people were present. W.M. Emily Schoenleber opened the meeting with wonderful Spring Greetings. W.P. Eric Schoenleber welcomed everyone and thanked them for coming.
M y r t l e C h a p t e r t h e n Exemplified the Degrees of the Order. Sis. Emily thanked everyone and said we all did a great job. A big thanks goes out to the subs for the evening. Sis. Jeanne Bonnett, candidate; Sis. Liz Sawyer, Adah; Sis. Connie Weir, Martha; Sis. Bette Cummins, Electa; Bro. Bob Sides, Marshal; and Sis. Nita Babcock, Organist. Without you, Myrtle Chapter would not exist. Thanks for your continued dedication to the Chapter.
We draped our Charter in the memory of Bro. Cal Armour, Sis. Bonnie Brasel and Bro. C. Robert Todd. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families.
The meeting was closed in regular manner with W.M. Emily
thanking everyone for coming and W.P. Eric congratulating everyone on a job well done and to have a great evening.
Before the meeting everyone gathered in the dining room for a potluck dinner. There was a wide variety of food available. Thanks to all who brought something to eat and took part in the potluck.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Meeting date for next month is set for May 4 at 7:30 p.m. Fellowship will be after the meeting. (Please note the date, due to Grand Chapter meeting on the second Tuesday). All are welcome to attend.
Mark your calendars for Grand Chapter Session which will be held at the Pershing Center in Lincoln from May 11 – 13.
Keep Saving those Best Choice Labels. 1000 labels are needed. Please feel free to drop off your labels in the bag on the bulletin board or turn them into Norma Brown.
FIREWORK STAND
Help is needed. Myrtle
Chapter will be working a Firework Stand this year on 27th and Superior in the Parking lot of Carlos O Kellys. Workers are needed to run the stand. Two hour shifts are available. If you are interested in working a shift, please contact W.M. Emily, Sis. Robyn Throckmorton, or Bro. Greg Mason.
COURTESY REPORT
Sis. Nita Babcock had her knee scoped. Sis. Connie Weir had out patient surgery and had a melanoma removed. Sis. Delores Kaufman had knee surgery. Sis. Irmy Smith had a hairline crack in her foot. Bro. Steve Brown had knee surgery Bro. Steve and Sis. Norma Brown welcomed their 12th great grandchild into this world. Correction: I appologize to Sis. Irmy Smith. Last month I reported her as a Brother not a Sister. So sorry.
APRIL BIRTHDAYS
April 8.......Sis. Barbara ChatfieldApril 24.............Bro. Greg MasonApril 25...............Sis. Janet Sides
Myrtle Chapter 94Deb Kendle, Correspondent
5600 South 48th St.Lincoln NE, 68516
402.423.2206
Mon to Fri: 6 a.m.-8 p.m.Sat: 6 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Sun: Closed
PAGE12 THEMASONICNEWS MAY2010
COMING EVENTS IN MASONRYSAT., MAY 8 Spring Clean Up Day, College View Lodge, 4641 Cooper Ave.SAT., MAY 8 Friendship Event and Wine Tasting, Cotner Lodge, 1542 N. 65th St., 7:00 p.m.SUN., MAY 9 Masonic Family Day, Omaha Scottish Rite, $5.00 per person, Food 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Ball Game 1:35 p.m., Zoo All DayFRI., MAY 14 Master Mason Degree, Lancaster Lodge 54, 1635 L St., 6:30 p.m.SAT., MAY 15 Fish Fry, George Washington Lodge,SUN., MAY 16 Bethel Scrapbooking Party, Bethel 60, $5.00 per person 4641 Cooper, 1:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.MON., MAY 17 Past Master’s Dinner, Cotner Lodge, 1542 N. 65th St., 7:00 p.m.TUE., MAY 18 Temple Chapter Kensington, Temple ChapterWED., MAY 19 Past Master’s Dinner, College View Lodge, 4641 Cooper Ave. FRI., MAY 21 Past Master’s Memorial Dinner, Lancaster Lodge 54, 6:30 p.m. - Master Mason Degree Work by Past Masters, 7:00 p.m.SAT., MAY 22 Cotner Day at the Lake, Picnic, Pawnee Lake, 1:00 p.m.SAT., MAY 22 Charter Day Dinner, Temple Chapter, 332 S. Centennial MallMON., MAY 24 Bethel Meeting & Masonic Tribute Ceremony (All Masons and OES members welcome to attend), Bethel 60, 4641 Cooper, 7:00p.m. - 9:00 p.m.SAT., MAY 29 Initiation Ceremony, Bethel 5, 1635 L Street., 3:00 p.m.SAT., JUNE 5 Outdoor Degree, Mid-West Lodge No. 317, HastingsTUE., JUNE 22 Charter Day Dinner, Lincoln Lodge 19, 1635 L St., Time TBA
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MEMBERS ATTEND POTLUCK DINNERS
On Mar. 15, members attended a St. Patrick’s themed potluck dinner hosted by Capitol Chapter 320 Order of the Eastern Star and on Mar. 17, members attended a St. Patrick’s themed potluck dinner hosted by College View Lodge 320. Thank you to the members of these organizations for inviting us to be guests at your events!
SLUMBER PARTY, BREAKFAST, AND
INITIATION PRACTICE
Members gathered at the Bethel Guardian’s home on Mar. 19, for an overnight slumber party. The evening began with an ice breaker event followed by karaoke. Council members, Doug Johnson, Pam Johnson and Carla Green provided delicious snacks for the evenings events. The night ended with watching “The Princess and the Frog” provided by Council member, Stacey Kassebaum. The next morning a wonderful breakfast was made by council member, Jason Phelps. After the breakfast members went to the Bethel for an initiation practice.
BETHEL MEETING AND INITIATION CEREMONY
On the evening of Mar. 22 members met for a regular business meeting and initiation ceremony. Emily Hatcher and Cyndi Wolbert were initiated into our wonderful organization. Dylan Lamb, Megan Thornburg, Natalie McGuire, Katie Lamb, Julia Sanford, and Kristen Sanford from Bethel 63, Charmel Brown from Bethel 4, and Dehnia Herrick from Bethel 27 assisted with the initiation ceremony. Bethel 60 members would like to thank those who assisted and congratulate
the newest members of the Bethel!
FUNDRAISER FORHIKE AT CULVER’S
On Mar. 29, Bethel 60 members held a fundraiser event at Culver’s Restaurant located at 16th and Old Cheney. Members worked during two shifts to deliver food to tables and the drive-through, greet customers, and clean tables and chairs. Proceeds from this fundraiser will be donated to the HIKE Fund Inc. to assist with purchasing hearing devices for children. Thank you to all who joined us for this event, we had a successful turnout!
MONTHLY FUNDRAISER AT DON & MILLIE’S
Members, council members, their families and friends of Bethel 60 met at Don & Millie’s to eat together during their monthly fundraiser night on Apr. 5. Our next fundraiser night at Don & Millie’s will be Mon., May 3! All are invited to join us! This event takes place the first Monday of every month from 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. We’d love for you to join us! Stop on in or go through the drive through – don’t forget to say you are supporting “Job’s Daughters”!
CRAFT PARTY, BETHEL CLEAN, SERVICE PROJECT
In the morning of Apr. 10, members gathered at College View lodge to put their creative sides to work. Members painted and decorated wood picture frames as a fun activity. Following the activity the members held their monthly clean of the building. Following the clean, members worked hard to cleanup trash in the neighborhood and at Henry Park just down the street as a service project for our community.
BETHEL MEETING
Members held a regular Bethel meeting on Apr.12. Kelsey Rabel played “Piano Man” by Billy Joel on her harmonica for the Librarian’s Report. Emily Hatcher, Sarah Green, Cyndi Wolbert, and Catherine Johnson received prizes for their assistance with our Henry Park and neighborhood cleanup on Apr. 10. Cyndi Wolbert and Sarah Green were presented with notebooks for submitting articles to the Fish
Tales Nebraska newsletter. Ashley Rice was presented with a sparkle box filled with gum for showing improvement in her initiation part. Ashley Rice and Catherine Johnson received HIKE pins and charms for collecting donations for HIKE. Catherine Johnson received the “Supreme Spirit Award” from Supreme for her term as Honored Queen. Catherine earned 1,645 out of 1,000 points for this award. Diana Weers was presented with a purple plant and purple beads by the members of the Bethel. Diana was nominated by the Bethel to receive that Royal Purple Degree during the Grand Session in June.
BETHEL 60 TO HOST MASONIC TRIBUTE
CEREMONY
Bethel 60 will include a Masonic tribute ceremony in our regular Bethel meeting on Mon., May 24, at 7:00 p.m. All Master Masons and members of the Order of Eastern Star are invited to attend the meeting and reception following. Eligibility to attend a Bethel meeting include: a Master Mason in good standing; a parent, step-parent, grandparent or guardian of a member or candidate of the Bethel; a women, at least 20 years of age, who is the wife, daughter granddaughter, mother, sister, half-sister, or widow of a Master Mason; a women who is a member of any adult organization basing it’s membership requirements on a Masonic relationship, or who, if married, is eligible to membership in such organization; and a Majority Member of Job’s Daughters.
UPCOMING EVENTS
May 3 – Don & Millie’s Fundraiser , 5:00-9:00 p.m. (All are welcome to attend)May 8 – All Building Spring Clean (Plant flowerbeds), 10:00-4:00 p.m. May 10 – Bethel Meeting & Elec-tion of Officers, 7:00-9:00 p.m.M a y 1 4 – C e n t e r p i e c e M e e t i n g , 7 : 0 0 - 9 : 0 0 p . m .May 16 – Bethel Scrapbooking Party, 1:30-5:30 p.m. (cost $5.00/person. All are welcome to attend)M a y 2 3 – C e n t e r p i e c e M e e t i n g , 2 : 0 0 - 5 : 0 0 p . m .May 24 – Bethel Meeting & Masonic Tribute Ceremony, 7:00-9:00 p.m. (All Masons and OES members welcome to attend)M a y 2 8 – C e n t e r p i e c e M e e t i n g , 7 : 0 0 - 9 : 0 0 p . m .
Bethel 60 members stop for a quick picture while earning money for HIKE during their annual Culver’s fundraiser on March 29. Margaret Knight photo
Bethel 60 members cleaned Cooper Avenue near the Bethel and Henry Park as a community service project on April 10. Tyler Weers photo
Bethel 60 held an initiation ceremony on March 22. Members of Bethel 4, 27, and 63 assisted with the ceremony. Diana Weers photo
Bethel 60Diana Weers, Correspondent
Bethel 60 members en-joyed a night of fun during the Bethel sleepover on March 19! Tyler Weers photo