2008 proceeding websiteohioram.org/proceedings/2008 proceedings website.pdf · 2018-03-31 · the...
TRANSCRIPT
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
GRAND CHAPTER
OF
ROYAL ARCH MASONS
STATE OF OHIO
HELD ATMiamisburg, Ohio
October 8 – 9, A.D. 2008A.I. 2538
One Hundred and Ninety - SecondAnnual Convocation
BARBERTON, OHIO
Published by order of the Grand Chapter2008
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter2
GARIS E. PUGH
Grand High Priest2007-2008
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 3
BIOGRAPHY & MASONIC RECORDGaris E. Pugh, Grand High Priest 2007 - 2008
Most Excellent Companion Pugh was born February 11, 1947 in Bellefontaine, Ohio. He
attended Bowling Green State University and in 1967 joined the U.S. Army. Sent to Vietnam, he
is the recipient of the Purple Heart.
He is currently employed by the Logan County Water Pollution Control District where he is the
General Manager.
He married the former Virginia (Ginny) Williams. Garis has two children from a previous
marriage – Kirsten and Joshua. All are actively involved in the Eastern Star and Masonic bodies
at the Bellefontaine Masonic Center.
Most Excellent Companion Pugh, for 25 years, was an active member of the National Ski Patrol.
He also served as Ohio Region Ski and Toboggan training chairman.
An active member of Bellefontaine First United Methodist Church, he has served on the
administrative board.
MASONIC RECORD
SYMBOLIC:
Bellefontaine Lodge No. 209 F&AM. Worshipful Master in 1991, Treasurer 2002 to present.
CAPITULAR:
Lafayette Chapter Royal Arch Masons No. 60, High Priest in 1990, 1993, 1997, 2000, 2002 and
2005. Treasurer 2002 to present. District Deputy Grand High Priest 1995 to 1999. Grand
Representative of Western Australia to Ohio. Ohio Council, Anointed High Priests 1990; Dwight
Warehime Mark Lodge No. 3.
CRYPTIC:
Logan Council Royal and Select Masons No. 85. Illustrious Master 1992, 1999 and 2005;
Presently serving as Treasurer. Order of the Silver Trowel, 1992.
CHILVARIC:
Bellefontaine Commandery No. 61. Eminent Commander 1996; Treasurer 2002 to present.
Knight Eminent Commander, Life Member.
ANCIENT ACCEPTED SCOTTISH RITE:
Valley of Dayton. Ambassador to Bellefontaine Lodge No. 209. Elected to receive the 33rd degree
in Providence, R.I. in August, 2008.
OHIO PRIORY:
Knight of the York Cross of Honor.
ALLIED MASONIC DEGREES:
Highpoint Council No. 120, Past Sovereign Master. Recipient of the Red Branch of Eri.
RED CROSS OF CONSTANTINE:
Charlemagne Conclave Order of the Red Cross of Constantine
HOLY ROYAL ARCH KNIGHT TEMPLAR PRIESTS:
Prince of Peace Tabernacle No. X.
YORK RITE COLLEGE:
Blackstone York Rite Sovereign College No. 195, Recipient - Order of the Purple Cross.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter4
ROYAL ORDER OF SCOTLAND:
Sir Knight in the Royal Order of Scotland.
TALL CEDARS OF LEMANON:
Ohio Northern Forest No. 188 Tall Cedars of Lebanon, Past Grand Tall Cedar
ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR:
Bellefontaine Chapter No. 459, O.E.S., Worthy Patron 1997 and 1998.
APOLLO DRAMATIC CHAPTER:
Member of Tabernacle No.2, Apollo Dramatic Chapter
OTHERS:
Angola Yeomen of YorkThe Master High Twelve Club No. 590Numerous Honorary memberships in Ohio Chapters and other Grand Jurisdictions
_______________________________________
OFFICERS OF THE GRAND CHAPTER OFROYAL ARCH MASONS OF THE STATE OF OHIO
2007 – 2008
Garis E. Pugh (wife Ginny) …………………………………….…...… Grand High Priest9527 Lakeshore Dr. E., Huntsville, OH 43324 Home (937) 842-3747
Robert J. Draye (wife Paula) …………………………………………….…… Grand King1271 Worton Blvd., Mayfield Heights, OH 44124 Home (440) 442-3140
Donald L. Losasso (wife Theda)……….…………………………..…….…. Grand Scribe
5149 Bixford Ave., Canal Winchester, OH 43110 Home: 614-836-3412
Charles J. McCarty (wife Ann)...................................................................Grand Treasurer24501Glnbrk Blvd, Euclid, OH 44117 Home: (216) 486-9499 Office: (440) 442-0666
Dale G. Ray, Jr. (wife Jacqueline)……………………………………….. Grand Secretary564 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Suite 401, Barberton, OH 44203 Office: 330-753-36701031 Wilbur Ave., Barberton, OH 44203 Home: (330) 753-5469
Steven J. Oliver (wife Susan) ……………………….……...… Grand Captain of the Host
321 E. Spring Street, New Knoxville, OH 45871 Home: (419) 942-1850
James W. Himmelright (wife Julia) …………………………... Grand Principal Sojourner
631 Friendship Street, Medina, OH 44256 Home: (330)722-3269 Bus: (800) 237-8246
George M. Shell (wife Sharon) ……………………..……....... Grand Royal Arch Captain
8006 Browns Run Road, Germantown, OH 45327 Home: (937) 620-3413
Robert W. Thomas (wife Donna) ……………………….…. Grand Master of the 3rd Veil
509 Brandon Court, Chardon, OH 44024 Home: (440) 286-5661
Donald W. Owens ................................................................ Grand Master of the 2nd Veil
2737 Orland Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45211 H: (513) 481-8616 Bus: (513) 684-5110
Robert D. Blankenhorn (wife Pam) ………………………… Grand Master of the 1st Veil
2172 Satinwood Drive, Mansfield, OH 44903 Home: (419) 589-2174
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 5
APPOINTIVE
F. Raymond Sharritts (wife Patricia) ........................................Gr. Chaplain & Necrologist1655 Lexington Drive, Lancaster, OH 43130 Home: (740) 654-6650
Herbert L. Clonch (wife Margaret) .…………………...……………………. Grand Guard1105 Meadow Lark Drive, Enon, OH 45323 Home: (937) 864-1396
David L. Vassar (wife Judy) ……….....………………………..…………. Grand Marshal529 Oakwood Drive, Bellefontaine, OH 43311 Home: (937) 592-0793
Norman G. Lincoln………………………………………………………. Grand Historian204 W. Chicago Street, PO Box 454, Eaton, OH 45320 Home: (937) 456-6859
Glen L. Opp (wife Nancy).................................................. Grand Fraternal Correspondent104 S. Main St., Rawson, OH 45881 Home: (419) 963-4724
Don R. Lutz ............................................................................................... Grand Musician1015 Montrose Avenue, Bexley, OH 43209 Home (614) 224-6105
Robert L. Jordon (wife Dorothy) ................................................ Grand Musician Emeritus926 W. Ohio Ave., Sebring, OH 44672 Home: (430) 938-6254
George Hall (wife June) ……………………...………… Grand Parliamentarian Emeritus28 Park Avenue West, Mansfield, OH 44902 H: (419)756-5696 Bus: (419) 524-9811
______________________________
PROCEEDINGS OF THE GRAND CHAPTER of
ROYAL ARCH MASONS of the
STATE OF OHIO
At its One Hundred and Ninety-Second Annual Convocation
Held in the city of Miamisburg, Ohio
October 8 and 9, A.D. 2008, A.I. 2538
The Officers and Members of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the State of Ohio
assembled in the ballroom of the Miamisburg Holiday Inn in Miamisburg, Ohio on October 8th,
2008, where the One Hundred and Ninety-Second Annual Convocation convened at 8:00 A.M.
By Dispensation, Lafayette Chapter No.60, Royal Arch Masons, opened a Chapter of Royal
Arch Masons with the following officers in the stations:
Richard Kurtz ……..….………….… High Priest
Charles Wood .…….……………….. King
Matt Henry …..............………..……. Scribe
Andy Vance. …………………...…… Captain of the Host
J. Keith Bell ……....………………... Principal Sojourner
Chet Kurtz ………. .......……………. Royal Arch Captain
Jeremy Stallsmith ….…………..…… Master of the Third Veil
Mike Dodds ......... …...……………... Master of the Second Veil
Daryl Cordrey .… …....…………..…. Master of the First Veil
Harold Robl ….................……….…… Guard
The Grand Officers were received and introduced by Right Excellent Companion David Vassar,
Grand Marshal, and accorded the Grand Honors of Masonry. Most Excellent
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter6
Companion Garis E. Pugh was then presented at the Altar and accorded Grand Honors and
conducted to the East, where the gavel of authority was presented to him by High Priest Richard
Kurtz. He thanked the officers of Lafayette Chapter for the opening and requested the following
Grand Officers to take their stations vacated by the officers of his home Chapter:
Garis E. Pugh..…………..…….…...... Grand High Priest
Robert C. Draye …..…..…….…......... Grand King
Donald L. Losasso…………………..... Grand Scribe
Charles J. McCarty…………………... Grand Treasurer
Dale G. Ray, Jr. …………………...… Grand Secretary
Steven J. Oliver…………..………..… Grand Captain of the Host
James W. Himmelright ……….......… Grand Principal Sojourner
George M. Shell ……………………... Grand Royal Arch Captain
Robert W. Thomas …………..........… Grand Master of the Third Veil
Donald Owens ……...……………..… Grand Master of the Second Veil
Robert D. Blankenhorn …..……...…… Grand Master of the First Veil
F. Raymond Sharritts……………….... Grand Chaplain and Necrologist
Herbert L. Clonch……...…….........… Grand Guard
David L. Vassar ......……………....... Grand Marshal
Norman G. Lincoln…………………... Grand Historian
Glen L. Opp………………………….. Grand Fraternal Correspondent
Don R. Lutz ……....………………..… Grand Musician
Robert Jordon ………………………… Grand Musician Emeritus
George Hall …………………………... Grand Parliamentarian Emeritus
CREDENTIALS, 1st PARTIAL REPORT
The Committee on Credentials is pleased to report that there are present and registered a
sufficient number of representatives from the several constituent chapters of this Grand Chapter to
constitute a quorum under Article 5, Section 2 of the Constitution of the Grand Chapter of Royal
Arch Masons of Ohio, which is thirty (30) or more chartered chapters, and that all Grand Officers
are present. There are also present at this 192nd Annual Grand Convocation of the Grand Chapter
a large number of distinguished representatives from this and other jurisdictions, to all of whom is
extended a most cordial and fraternal welcome.
Respectfully submitted,
Rt. Ex. Comp. John R. Hartsock, P.D.D.G.H.P., Chairman, Credentials Committee
GRAND CHAPTER OPENED
At the direction of the Grand High Priest, Right Excellent Companion David L. Vassar, Grand
Marshal, made the following proclamation:
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 7
"By order of the Most Excellent Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of Ohio I now
declare this 192nd Annual Convocation of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the State of
Ohio duly opened in ample form for the transaction of such business as may regularly come
before it."
Grand High Priest Pugh then directed the Companions to come to order and give their
attention to Rt. Ex. Companion F. Raymond Sharritts, Grand Chaplain, who offered the following
invocation:
INVOCATION
“Dear Father, you have led us though calm and troubled waters since we last met. No matter
where we chose to go, we discovered that You were there in our midst. Caring for us and enabling
us to be your sons.
We offer up prayers of thanksgiving. And we rejoice in the blessings that we have received.
We have grown as men. Help us to be accountable for what we have done and what we have left
undone.
In our deliberations, remind us of our obligations, first to You, and to each other. Judge those
who have been stumbling blocks and robbed us of being the best that we can be. May we
demonstrate charity, truth in the way we live in unity and harmony with each other and our world.
We humbly thank You for preserving and bring to light the lost Master’s Word; for our fathers
have declared to us the sacredness with which Your most Holy Name was worshipped and adored
in their day. Direct, sanctify, and govern us that we may ever remember that our Holy Order was
founded upon the honor and glory of Your Great and Sacred Name.
Amen”
INTRODUCTIONS
Distinguished Masons and guests were then presented in groups, each group being accorded ahearty welcome and the Grand Honors of Masonry.
Past Grand High Priests of Ohio were presented by Grand Marshal David L. Vassar:William M. Berry 1980Joe E. Worthington 1988Dale G. Ray, Jr. 1993Jerry C. Crawford 1994John W. Purdy 1995Arthur E. Ross 1996Wayne S. Dill 1997Robert D. Crabbs 1999Charles J. McCarty 2000Chester W. Hammond 2001Alan D. Hart 2002John R. Gartrell 2003Steven A. Duncan 2004Jean W. Justus, Jr. 2005Kermit V. Zimmerman 2006James M. McDonald 2007
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter8
District Deputies Grand High Priests were presented by Most Excellent Companion ArthurE. Ross:
District 1 Joey E. Kidd District 10 Charles E. Bonecutter2 Ronald L. Craft 11 Stephen F. Miller3 H. Jeffery Shaw . Daniel S. Smith
John C. Watkins 13 Larry E. ByrdJames C. Stephens 14 William E. Channell
4 Richard D. Hall 15 James C. EckardThomas E. Williams 16 Robert R. ChildersGerald W. Hughes Jeffrey L. Addis
5 R. Keith O’Dell 17 William A. Whittenberger6 J. Erick Bails 18 Glenn R. Greenamyer7 David A. Young 19 Randal E. Davis8 J. Keith Green 20 Neal B. Forbes9 Larry D. Hess
District Education Officers, in attendance, were presented by Most Excellent CompanionRobert D. Crabbs:
District 1 Chris King District 9 W. Nickalas Tazelaar3 Aaron E. Crawford 10 Darrell R. Porter3 Richard A. Grimes 11 Donald M. Lynne3 David W. Slusher 15 Jean L. Davis4 Darrell L. Duncan 17 William C. Young4 George Taylor 18 Richard P. Snider, Sr.4 Stanley J. Anderson 19 David W. Hyde5 Robert S. Jones7 Leo “Skip” Garey8 Kim Sautter
The Grand Master and Immediate Past Grand Master of the Grand Council, Royal andSelect Masons of Ohio were introduced by Most Excellent Companion William M. Berry:M. Ill. Companion Bobby G. Campbell Immediate Past Grand MasterM. Ill. Companion Fred A. Boggs Grand Master
The remaining Grand Officers of the Grand Council formed in line behind Most Illustrious GrandMaster Boggs and were greeted by Grand High Priest Pugh.Rt. Ill. Companion William Laughlin Deputy Grand MasterM. Ill. Companion Merlyn Meredith Past Grand Master, Grand RecorderRt. Ill. Companion Douglas Habegger Grand Captain of the GuardRt. Ill. Companion William R. Eagle Grand Conductor of CouncilRt. Ill. Companion Leonard Johnson Grand StewardRt. Ill. Companion Robert Rhinehart Grand MarshalRt. Ill. Companion Lynn Alexander Grand SentinelRt. Ill. Companion Johnny J. Kuhn Inspector of the 6th ArchRt. Ill. Companion Richard Amlung Inspector of the 8th ArchM. Ill. Companion Howard L. Lambert Past Grand MasterM. Ill. Companion Ronald E. Pool Past Grand Master
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 9
M. Ill. Companion Jim J. Buckingham Past Grand MasterM. Ill. Companion John Hall Past Grand MasterM. Ill. Companion James Parker IV Past Grand MasterIll. Companion Mike Smith 3rd Arch AdjutantIll. Companion Larry Hill 3rd Arch AdjutantIll. Companion Dwight Damschroder 4th Arch AdjutantIll. Companion Grover Manning, II 5th Arch AdjutantIll. Companion Dan Goodell 8th Arch Adjutant
Officers of the Grand Commandery, Knights Templar of Ohio were introduced by MostExcellent Companion Chester W. Hammond:Sir Knight Franklin C. Boner Rt. Eminent Department Commander,
East Central Deptm’t Gr. EncampmentSir Kt. Burch E. Zehner Rt. Eminent Grand CommanderSir Kt. Richard Holcomb Very Eminent Dep. Grand CommanderSir Kt. S. Thomas Ramsay \ Eminent Grand GeneralissimoSir Kt. Bruce D. Basil Past Grand Commander; Gr. RecorderSir Kt. John R. Clime Eminent Grand Captain GeneralSir Kt. August C. Holzer Eminent Grand Senior WardenSir Kt. Wilfrid A. Grose Past Grand CommanderSir Kt. David M. Snyder, Sr. Past Grand Commander
Officers of Ohio Priory No. 18, Knights York Cross of Honor were presented by MostExcellent Companion John R. Gartrell:Knight Donald C. Shoemaker Eminent PriorKnight Robert Wise Deputy PriorKnight James H. Foreman RegistrarKnight Pat C. Lively WarderKnight Dennis Wilhelm HeraldKnight Lynn Chadbourne 2nd District Deputy PriorKnight Robert E. McNutt 3rd District Deputy PriorKnight Merlyn Meredith Past Eminent PriorKnight Donald Hamer Past Eminent PriorKnight David M. Snyder, Sr. Past Eminent PriorKnight Alan D. Hart Past Eminent Prior
Representative of the Sovereign York Rite College of North America was presented by MostExcellent Companion Joe E. Worthington:Rt. Eminently Distinguished Brother Louis S. Van Slyck Grand Governor in Ohio
Officers of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio were introduced by MostExcellent Companion Alan D. Hart:Rt. Worshipful Brother Keith Bell Dist. Deputy Grand Master, 15th Dist.Rt. Worshipful Brother Darrell Porter Dist. Deputy Grand Master, 20th Dist.Rt. Worshipful Brother Terry Posey Senior Grand WardenM. Worshipful Brother Michael A. Himes Past Grand Master
Representative of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite in Ohio was introduced by MostExcellent Companion James M. McDonald:Illustrious Brother Neil M. Smalley, 33rd Active Member, Supreme Council;Deputy for Ohio; Past Grand Master
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter10
Companions of the Most Excellent Prince Hall Grand Chapter of the State of Ohio werepresented by Most Excellent Companion Steven A. Duncan:M. Ex. Comp. Charles V. Williams, III Grand High PriestRt. Ex. Comp. Arper Tentman, Jr. Grand KingM. Ex. Comp. Arlin Jackson Past Grand High PriestM. Ex. Comp. Bob Estelle Past Grand High PriestRt. Ex. Comp. Joseph E. Toliver, Jr. Grand Administrative OfficerEx. Comp. Dr. James Eddings, Jr. Past High Priest
Most Excellent Companion Wayne S. Dill presented the representatives of the followingGrand Jurisdictions:
IndianaRt. Ex. Comp. W. Kris Phillips Grand High PriestRt. Ex. Comp. Phil Herthel Grand ScribeRt. Ex. Comp. James W. Daugherty Grand Captain of the HostRt. Ex. Comp. David F. Wood Grand Royal Arch CaptainM. Ex. Comp. James H. Hodge Past Grand High Priest
KentuckyRt. Ex. Comp. James G. Hogue Grand King
MichiganRt. Ex. Comp. William D. Fairchild Grand High PriestRt. Ex. Comp. David Dossette Grand Royal Arch CaptainM. Ex. Comp. Paul C. Johnson Past Grand High PriestM. Ex. Comp. Jan Beaderstadt Past Grand High Priest
New JerseyM. Ex. Comp. Herbert R. Wood Past Grand High Priest
Grand Representative of Ohio
New YorkRt. Ex. Comp. Frank Gordnier Past Grand Captain of the Host
OntarioM. Ex. Comp. Roland Paddle Grand First PrincipalM. Ex. Comp. George H. Gifford Past Grand First PrincipalRt. Ex. Robert H. McKelvie Grand Representative of Ohio
Past Grand Superintendant
WashingtonRt. Ex. Comp. Herbert N. Weaver Deputy Grand High Priest
Officers of the General Grand Chapter International were then introduced by MostExcellent Companion Charles E. Karth.M. Ex. Comp. J. B. Hitt, II General Grand Treasurer
Past Grand High Priest – KentuckyM. Ex. Comp. James H. Hodge Trustee of General Grand Chapter
Past Grand High Priest - IndianaM. Ex. Comp. James B. Wall Executive Director – R.A.R.A.
Past Grand High Priest – Kentucky
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 11
M. Ex. Comp. J. William Riggs Deputy General Grand High PriestEast Central Region; Gr. Prin. Soj.
M. Ex. Comp. James J. “Jerry” Vann Ambassador to MichiganPast Grand High Priest - Michigan
M. Ex. Comp. Jean W. Justus Ambassador to OhioPast Grand High Priest - Ohio
General Grand High Priest of the General Grand Chapter International was introduced byMost Excellent Companion Kermit V. Zimmerman:M. Ex. Comp. Emory Ferguson General Grand High Priest
Past Grand High Priest – Alabama
RECEPTION OF THE GRAND MASTER OF MASONS IN OHIO
Most Excellent Companion John W. Purdy then presented Companion Ronald L. Winnett,
Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ohio. Most Worshipful Brother Winnett was escorted under
an arch of steel, conducted to the East, extended Grand Honors and given a seat of honor next to
the Grand High Priest.
Most Worshipful Brother Winnett addressed the Companions with the following comments:
“Good morning Companions. I know all of you are glad to see me come in because now you
can really get to work and do the things you need to be doing.
I thought maybe I could go with the ladies on their tour and then come back, but they are still
out there and haven’t left.
Grand High Priest, I’d like to return the gavel as I know you have a lot of business and a lot of
plans. It’s been very enjoyable so far and last night was very enjoyable. It was different and
that’s what fun! I was glad I was in the back of the room to see the guys with the chairs – it brings
back memories of my old military days.
I return the gavel to you and ask that you might call on me later.”
Most Worshipful Brother Winnett’s remarks were received with a warm round of applause.
PRESENTATION OF COLORS
The flag of the United States of America was presented by Sir Knights of the Second Division,
Knights Templar of Ohio. The flag was posted to its position in the East; the Pledge of Allegiance
given by the Companions and the tribute to the Flag of the U.S.A. was presented.
Grand High Priest Pugh thanked the Sir Knights for their assistance in the opening festivities
and they retired.
SINGING OF OUR NATIONAL ANTHEM and O’ CANADA
Most Excellent Companion Pugh called upon Most Excellent Companion William Berry to
lead the Companions in paying tribute to the United States and to our Canadian neighbors with the
singing of the “Star Spangled Banner” and “O’Canada.”
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter12
ADDRESS OF WELCOME
Most Excellent Companion Charles V. Williams, Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of
Ohio, Prince Hall was conducted to the podium where he gave the address of welcome.
“Good morning. I’m excited to have this opportunity and I’ve been accorded this prerogative
of greeting this distinguished – I have to say that – distinguished assemblage and some of you
have traveled a great distance from a number of places to be here in the Dayton area. I hope it was
because of your great interest in the progress of our Order that you have traveled so many tiring
miles.
I know to what extent you are dedicated to the advancement of Capitular Masonry. I look
forward to stimulating words from each of you.
I bring you greetings from my office as Most Excellent Grand High Priest of the Most
Excellent Prince Hall Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, and I might add on behalf of Most
Excellent Companion Pugh, the Most Excellent Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of Ohio.
To all the Companion visitors we express our regards and our gratitude for your attendance and
trust that you’re going to benefit from your visit.
I am certain that from many months you have looked forward to this visitation and I wonder
how best to tell you what a joy it is for me to be here with you and to extend a warm welcome.
This visit is a great inspiration to us all and I am most grateful that you have honored me by giving
me this precious time out of your busy and demanding schedule to come and to greet you.
Our coming together is like the meeting of a great fraternal family bound by the same ties. So,
don’t bother to knock; just come right on in. Welcome.”
Most Excellent Companion Williams’ comments were received with a warm round of applause.
Response by Grand King Robert J. Draye
“Most Excellent Companion Williams, what a wonderful honor and what a wonderful pleasure
it is to have you bring the greetings to the Dayton area. As you know, we have been here many
times before and every time has been a great pleasure. Your area has treated the Masons of Ohio
with great honor and great dignity and it’s a pleasure to be here with you.
It's also wonderful that we have to have the kind of relationship with the Prince Hall Masons.
As you said, it is a wonderful brotherhood and I'm looking forward to it for many years to come.
I assure you that our ladies will enjoy their presence here by spending some of their money
here in the Dayton area.
Again, thank you so much for that warm welcome.”
The welcoming address and response were both received with a warm round of applause. Most
Excellent Companion Pugh then called upon Most Excellent Companion
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 13
William Fairchild, Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of Michigan to give remarks on
behalf of the out-of-state guests.
ADDRESS BY WILLIAM B. FAIRCHILD
Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of Michigan
“Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Most Excellent General Grand High Priest of the General
Grand Chapter Royal Arch Masons International and companions all. “O” “H”.
(The Companions responded with “I” “O”). I know I was set up and guess who told me to do it!
Good morning Companions. I bring the fraternal greetings from our out-of-state guests to the
Grand Chapter Royal Arch Masons of Ohio. It is always great to meet the Companions - some the
Companions I've known for years; and some I have just met.
It is an honor bestowed upon me by Most Excellent Companion Pugh and I thank you very
much for allowing me to represent your out of state guests. Companions this is an opportunity for
us to see new ideas; this is a time when we get to exchange new ideas; we bring ideas back to our
various jurisdiction. I know at the East Central with Indiana, we received some great ideas and
we are now using those ideas in Michigan in our new membership program. I know we have
benefited very much and if we come away from one of these grand jurisdictions without any
knowledge, then shame on us because we haven't paid attention to what is going on. There is
always knowledge to be learned.
Most Excellent, thank you. We congratulate you and your Grand Officers for successful year.
We know that you’ll have many successful years ahead of you as you leave this Grand Chapter in
good hands and I congratulate you on your year.
It is surely a wonderful site for the session. We thank you for all the courtesies you extended to
us, our ladies and all your out-of-state dignitaries. May God be with all you Companions in your
many travels for this Grand Chapter. Thank you.”
Most Excellent Companion Fairchild’s comments were received with a round of applause.
HONORARY MEMBERSHIPS AWARDED
Most Excellent Companion Dale G. Ray, Grand Secretary announced that several visiting
current and past Grand High Priests of other jurisdictions, being in attendance
should be accorded honorary membership in our Grand Chapter. A motion was made, seconded
and unanimously approved by the Companions to present honorary memberships to:
M. Ex. Comp. J. William Riggs, Past Grand High Priest, Kentucky
M. Ex. Comp. Roland A. Paddle, Grand First Principal, Ontario
M. Ex. Comp. W. Kris Phillips, Grand High Priest, Indiana
M. Ex. Comp. William B. Fairchild, Grand High Priest, Michigan
These Companions were escorted west of the Altar and presented certificates acknowledging this
honor by Grand High Priest Pugh assisted by Grand Secretary Dale G. Ray.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter14
EXPLANATION OF BALLOT
At this time, Most Excellent Companion Pugh directed all tellers to report to Tellers
Committee Chairman Right Excellent Companion Herbert Clonch, Grand Guard. Most Ex.
Comp. James M. McDonald explained the voting procedure to the delegates. Grand High Priest
Pugh then declared the ballot open for election of officers
Ballot declared closed
All Companions, having cast ballots, Most Excellent Companion Pugh declared the ballot
closed and the tellers were instructed to count the ballots and report forthwith.
REPORT OF THE OHIO MASONIC HOME
Dale G. Ray, President of the Board of Trustees
“Most Excellent Grand High Priest. I wish to thank all the trustees that serve on both the
parent and subsidiary boards. They are about the most hard-working group of men you can find
anywhere. We continue to move forward with our new strategic plan that will carry us into the
next 5 to 10 years. I know our Chief Executive Officer is going to be talking to you about that so
I will relinquish my time and ask he address the Companions. Now, at this time, I'd like to
introduce our Chief Executive Officer of the Ohio Masonic home, W. David Bannerman.
Companion David Bannerman was greeted by Grand High Priest Pugh and invited to address
the Companions. Companion Bannerman gave the following comments:
COMMENTS FROM DAVID BANNERMAN
C.E.O. of the Ohio Masonic Home
“Most Worshipful Brother Winnett, Most Excellent Grand High Priest Pugh, Past Grand High
Priests, Right Excellent Companions, Excellent Companions, Companions, Brethren and Friends:
I wish to relate to you the story of I-Care and an older Companion who had cancer. At the end
of his life, he and his wife had a retirement house that they just built, but that’s all. He was still
able to live there but needed help fixing things like the handrail down into the basement, and
changing a light bulb on high ceilings and so on. With the efforts of local volunteers, they able to
stay in their home. Another case involves someone who had difficulty with health issues. A visit
by our I-Care coordinator with the doctor helped get these things straightened out. Our
companion was telling the story to the doctor; the doctor was busy - turning around and doing
some writing - who knows what. His wife said, ‘You know you need to pay attention. You’re not
listening to what the doctor says.’ They found out that by changing and adjusting some of his
medications and in helping him understand that he needed to take them regularly, he was able to
come back and be active in Chapter again.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 15
Some cases are little tougher. We received a call from a widow who needed our services and
maybe you can help. Her husband had died and she said she needed our help. She could stay at
home and she could drive and take care of herself, so that was the out of the way. So what does
she need? She needs someone to help her get rid of her swimming pool – it’s the end of the
season. We thought she meant an above ground swimming pool. You know, you drain the water
out; let the air out. Nope. It's actually an in-ground pool. She can't maintain it. She wants to stay
in the home that she and her husband had lived in for so many years and raised their children but
the pool was too much for her to handle and a liability for an older single woman. She wondered if
we knew of anyone that could help fill in the pool. Do you have a solution for her? I was thinking
someone with a bobcat or front-end loader could fill it in, but so far we haven’t located anyone
who could help take care of that.
You know I-Care is just one of our lines of business that need your help. Taking care of older
adults and our Brethren is big business and we've been in business since the 1890’s. Today we are
a $40 million business and growing. We have three campuses, our I-Care program and now we
have a new business. We started Masonic Helping Hands last fall. We realize that most people
want to stay in their homes rather than move to our campus for service. We found that for less than
$20 an hour someone could hire us to do a variety of chores and they could stay at home. Our
first office for Masonic Helping Hands opened in the Fairborn area last fall and in July we opened
an office in the Cincinnati area. We just signed a lease for the Toledo area a few weeks ago. We
started Masonic Helping Hands last fall and were growing. The board just agreed to expand the
program across the state. In the next six years we expect to expand and to add two offices a year
and that expansion will cover most of the state with hands-on assistance to our companions and
the general public. There will be more employees at the off campus services than we have had our
retirement communities. The size of our business will be significantly larger than it is today and
it's just the beginning. We’re looking at other ways to serve our Companions in need and come
create a complete network across the state of Ohio - I call it ‘the shield of the state of Ohio’ and I
want to fill that in with services and opportunities to be able serve you with those needs.
Why might we serve non-Masons? Well, several reasons. For one our membership is
shrinking. With fewer members we have a smaller pool of people to support our programs by
using our services and by donating to our foundation. So the number of members alone doesn't
sustain us. Without the non members we would probably end up out of business. As in any
business they must be a certain volume of sales to cover costs and our business is just like yours.
By opening our services we add to the volume and we improve our margins. Second, we believe
our services are valuable to the general population. We believe that if we serve you with
distinguished services, we can give the same quality to others and we would represent Ohio
Freemasonry with distinguished services.
The other thing, if you serve a person who is not a Mason, and I think you have heard this story
from the other charities, that they find the values that are taught are extended out through services
and they then say, ‘Oh, maybe I want to be a part of that organization.’ I now have Masons across
the country who are running retirement
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter16
communities, running businesses related to our services that will come up to us and ask. ‘How
can I be a part of a great institution you know as Freemasonry?’ Our national trade group has
asked all Masonic Homes across the country to meet with them next year at their annual meeting.
They want to know how a powerful group like the Masons has been so successful. They also want
to know if we can help strengthen aging services across America. What shall I tell them? Thanks,
but we don't even refer our own Companions to the free services or are we don't use our retirement
services or Masonic Helping Hands. Shall I tell them we don't want to change? We want to be
like my grandma's nightgown in the drawer waiting for her sometime in the future when it might
be needed. No, we’re pleased to be able to tell them our Companions, our fellow Masons are
getting the services that they need through the help from Ohio Masonic home. We are pleased to
have so many Excellent Companions who are on boards and serve us in addition to their usual
vocations.
Most Excellent Companion Pugh, my lady any and I appreciate courtesies been extended to us
in this grand session and I wish you the very best of success.”
Companion Bannerman’s comments were received with a hearty round of applause.
ROLL CALL of GRAND REPRESENTATIVES
The roll of the Grand Representatives of other Jurisdictions, near the Grand Chapter of Ohio
was called. They formed lines west of the Altar and received Grand Honors and the thanks of
Grand High Priest Pugh. He asked each representative to convey his fraternal greetings and his
best wishes to the jurisdictions they each represent. All representatives were present (or excused)
with the exception of: Alabama; Argentina; Belgium; Manitoba Canada; England – Lodge of
Mark Masters; Florida; France 0 Grand Mark Lodge; Iowa; Kentucky; Maryland; Minnesota;
Netherlands; New Hampshire, New Mexico; New South Wales and Australian Cap. Terry;
Portugal; Utah; Washington; and West Virginia.
Grand Representatives to the Grand Chapter of Ohio from other Jurisdictions, being in
attendance that morning were recognized and asked to join with their Ohio counterparts to receive
Grand Honors:
Rt. Ex. Comp. Robert McKelvie Grand Chapter of Canada in Ontario
M. Ex. Comp. Herbert R. Wood Grand Chapter of New Jersey
Rt. Ex. Comp. Herbert N. Weaver Grand Chapter of Washington
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
It was duly moved and seconded that the minutes of the One Hundred – Ninety First Annual
Convocation, held in Sandusky, Ohio on October 3 & 4, 2007 be approved as printed and
distributed. The motion was approved by voice vote.
COMMENTS FROM M. EX. COMPANION CHARLES V. WILLIAMS, III
Grand High Priest, Most Excellent Prince Hall Grand Chapter of Ohio
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 17
“I say good morning again. Are there any golfers here? Raise your hand. I have a story for
you. It seems there were three men who were playing golf and the course had a wicked dog leg
with a large water hazard. The first man stepped to the tee and hit a sharp slice into the water
hazard. He walked up to the water. It parted and he lofted his ball to within ine foot of the hole.
The next man hit his ball, and sure enough, it landed on top of the water. He walked across the
surface of the water and hit the ball within six inches the hole. The third man stepped up and hit
his ball. And sure enough it sliced and as it was just about to land in the water, a trout jumped up
and grabbed it in his mouth. An eagles swooped down and swooped up the fish and flew off. As
the eagle banked over the green, lightning struck him and he dropped the fish. The fish dropped
the ball and it landed in the hole for a hole-in-one. Moses turned to Jesus and said, ‘I really hate
playing golf with your Dad!’
Let me just say to keep your sword and breastplate handy for the devil is busy raging war
everywhere. So be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power and put on the whole armor of God
so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.
Thank you Grand High Priest.”
Most Excellent Companion Williams’ comments were received with a round of applause.
ANNUAL ADDRESS of the MOST EXCELLENT GRAND HIGH PRIESTOctober 8, 2008
Dear Companions and Friends:
I sit here trying to write what may be my last attempt to fulfill the duties of the Grand High
Priest. What a year this has been! Those who went before me told me to enjoy it as it will go fast.
And it has gone fast! And yes, I did enjoy it!!
I now welcome all of you to this, the 192nd annual Convocation of the Grand Chapter of Royal
Arch Masons in the State of Ohio. Again we are meeting together at the Holiday Inn Miamisburg
and we thank them for their hospitality and assistance in making sure that this event goes on
without any "opportunities for brilliance". The Companions of the
Sixth Capitular District are very happy and honored to be your hosts. To all of our guests your
presence is very much appreciated. I hope that we can accommodate all of your needs. Just contact
a Committee member if you need special assistance.
I want to extend to my fellow Grand High Priests in our sister jurisdictions a wish for a
successful term in office. I also want to once again thank you for your hospitality to myself, or my
representative, during your Grand Session. Also to those yet to come, we look forward to our time
together.
This year has been very rewarding to myself and to my traveling Companions. We have visited
with many Companions and we have visited many Masonic Buildings in this great State of Ohio.
We were received with open arms and we were humbled by your courtesy to us. The last time I
checked I still put my pants on one leg at a time, but yet, you treated us like royalty.
Our theme of "Chart a Course for the Future" was evident throughout the Chapters we visited.
As I stated in my remarks, this theme translated simply means to "Plan Ahead".
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter18
And forward-thinking planning was what we observed this entire year. There were some instances
of" that's not the way we've done it before" but that passed and forward thinking prevailed. F or
this I Thank You!
It is now time for me to report to you an accounting of my efforts on behalf of the Grand
Chapter. To report from the ships log book, the Course for the Future that we have sailed these last
12 months.
Each year the Grand Architect of the Universe has bigger plans than any of us. And whether we
are ready for his plans or not, they do happen. As is stated in a popular country song, "if you want
to hear God laugh, tell Him your plans". This is perhaps a more profound statement than what we
think. Our Grand Chapter is not exempt from God's will and we did suffer the loss of many
Companions. They are now in that Lodge, eternal in the Heavens and we mourn their loss but we
rejoice in their immortality.
Among the 732 Companions called to the celestial Lodge, four special friends have given their
all to us and to humanity. Sister Edieann Didham, past administrator of the Adopt America
program, REC Dewey McClure, Past Grand Guard Emeritus, REC George Rosendaul, a Past
District Deputy Grand High Priest, and just recently, REC George Hall, Grand Parliamentarian
Emeritus, have passed to the great beyond. They all were special friends of this Grand Chapter and
personally to me. I have missed them since their passing and I will always remember them, their
kind words and their ever-present desire to work on behalf of this fraternity and its ideals. I ask
that you now give reverent attention to Right Excellent Companion and Reverend F. Raymond
Sharritts, Grand Chaplain and Grand Necrologist.
REPORT OF NECROLOGIST
Rt. Ex. Comp. Raymond Sharritts, Grand Chaplain
Before presenting his Necrology Report, Rt. Excellent Companion Sharritts called upon several
Companions to offer memorial tribute tour deceased Companions.
MEMORIAL RESOLUTION FOR GEORGE T. ROSENDAUL
Past District Deputy Grand High Priest
“It’s an honor for me to stand here before this Grand Chapter and Distinguished guests and
offer this memorial resolution to an outstanding Mason.
Right Excellent Companion Rosendaul passed away on February 21, 2008. His passing left a
huge hole in Northwest Ohio's Masonic community and it will not be easily, or ever, filled.
Right Excellent Companion Rosendaul was a past District Deputy Grand High Priest of the
first Capitular district and a holder of the Grand Chapter’s Distinguished Service Award. He it
was a past High Priest of Northwest Chapter No. 45 - /10 times. Right
Excellent Companion Rosendaul helped every branch of Masonry in Northwest Ohio as well as
other areas of the state. When you needed help, all you had to do was call him. Right Excellent
Companion Rosendaul would be there and bring as many people as you needed to fill out your
cast or do whatever needed to be done.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 19
Right Excellent Companion Rosendaul was also a 33rd degree Mason from the Valley of
Toledo and recipient of the Order of the Purple Cross of the Sovereign York Rite College. He
was also, at the time of his death, Intendant General for Western Ohio for the Knights of the Red
Cross of Constantine. He was a holder of the Knight York Cross of Honor and aide to the Grand
Master of the Grand Encampment of the Knights Templar the United States of America.
When the first statewide York Rite degrees were being conferred in 1996, Right Excellent
Companion Rosendaul, along with Most Excellent Companion John Cooper were instrumental in
setting these up and directing them as well as taking several parts in the degrees.
George Rosendaul never had a bad word to say about anyone. A favorite expression of his
was: ‘the best people I know are Masons and I'm honored to be in their midst.’
He will and is sorely missed by all those who knew him.”
Respectfully submitted,
Kenneth Crouch, Past District Deputy of the First District
MEMORIAL RESOLUTION FOR DEWEY ARTHUR McCLUREGrand Guard Emeritus
“The passing of Right Excellent Companion Dewey Arthur McClure brought to a close a long
and distinguished record of service to family, community, church, and Freemasonry. With
sadness, yet in the spirit of keeping remembrance alive, we mourn the passing of our good friend
and Companion, who was a proud member of Holy Grail Conclave. He was born in Springfield,
Ohio, the son of Leo H., Sr. and Nelly Mae (Snyder) McClure on October 2, 1922 and he
departed this life for his celestial journey on March 8, 2008.
Right Excellent Companion McClure graduated from South Charleston High School in 1941.
Dewey enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps four weeks after Pearl Harbor and served as
an aircraft mechanic in the Asian-Pacific theater. He was discharged as a staff sergeant following
the completion of World War II. After returning home from the war he began a long career of civil
service at Wright Patterson Air Force Base from which he retired with over 30 years of service.
After his retirement he began a long-term affiliation with Richards, Raff & Dunbar Memorial
Home and gained much personal satisfaction in assisting families during their time of loss.
In 1952 he was united with Martha Bell Tuttle. In 2006, after 50 years of marriage, Martha
Bell preceded Dewey in death.
He was a member of First Christian Church until 1987 when he moved into the Masonic
Square Community. He served his church is chairman of the board and Sunday school
superintendent and he assisted the Boy Scouts of America for several years.
Right Excellent Companion McClure had a distinguished career in Freemasonry. He was raised
a Master Mason in St. Andrews Lodge 619, F.& A. M. in 1954; exalted in Shawnee Chapter No.
237, R. A. M. in 1960; greeted in Springfield Council No. 17, R. & S. M. in 1975; and Knighted
in Palestine Commandery No. 33 in 1975. Dewey was
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter20
selected to serve the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Ohio as a district deputy Grand
High Priest of the sixth Capitular district in 1971 and served in that office with distinction for five
years. He then served the Grand Chapter as the Grand Guard from 1978 to 1983 when he was
elected as the Grand Master of the First Veil. Due to his failing eyesight, he resigned that position
and was appointed the Grand Guard Emeritus and continued in that position until his death in
2008. He completed the degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, Valley of Dayton,
and received his 32nd degree in April 1972.
Other Masonic affiliations include Holy Grail Conclave, Order of the Red Cross of Constantine
and Appendant Orders; Past Worthy Patron of Norris Chapter No. 426, Order of the Eastern Star;
and High 12 Club No. 483.
Companion McClure was a beloved and much respected member of our craft and surely will be
missed. He led a meaningful life filled with many activities as he serves his family, his church, his
community, and Freemasonry. He will be remembered as a true gentleman, friend, and brother. No
longer may we grasp his hand in friendship, seek his companionship, or be a recipient of his
excellent counsel, or his friendly smile and humor. He will be missed by all who knew him and
worked with him, but his memory will remain fondly impressed in our hearts for eternity”.
Respectfully submitted, Herbert Clonch, Grand Guard
MEMORIAL RESOLUTION FOR GEORGE W. HALL
Grand Parliamentarian, Emeritus
“George W. Hall was born on June 24, 1924. He served in the Army Air Force in World War II
in 1943 through 1945 and when he was just discharged, immediately enrolled in law school at
what was then known as Western Reserve University, now known as Case Western University.
He was awarded a Bachelor of Law degree in June 1952. He took and passed the bar exam and
was licensed to practice law in August of that same year. While in law school he was a member of
the Delta Theta Phi Law Fraternity. He practiced law for more than 55 years and in all those
years he has practiced law with the firm of Weldon, Houston and Keyser. He became the senior
partner and was “of Council” of that firm. He concentrated his practice on estate planning and real
estate law. He has been president of the Richland County Bar Association, a life member of the
American Bar Association, a life member of the Ohio State Bar Association, and served the
Association as a member of the House of Delegates for two three-year terms. He is credited with
refining and reorganizing the Richland County jury commission of which he was a member for
more than 20 years.
For many men, his full and busy life would have been a prelude to retirement. Not so for
Companion Hall. His list of accomplishments and honors is reflected hereafter as highlights of
some of his exceptional contributions to his community and to his church.
A member of First Congregational Church of Mansfield, he served the church in many
capacities and activities. A Scoutmaster for many years for sponsoring churches and in that
capacity helped to mold the careers of many young men in those troops. He labored for 20 years as
a member of the Mansfield city school board of education. As a member
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 21
of the board he led the board to some remarkable achievements. He was instrumental in
orchestrating a non-adversarial relationship between the school board and the teaching staff, thus
resulting in the board and teachers bargaining contracts without a work stoppage; he was the
guiding light and selection of competent energetic and creative superintendants; prospective
federal involvement appeared on the horizon regarding minority student enrollment in the schools
that they would attend. In order to eliminate Federal interference, Companion Hall worked
diligently with community leaders and all school staff in the creation of a middle school concept,
closing schools and bringing a balance of minority enrollment in many buildings dedicated to
teaching all students, regardless of race or ethnic background.
Companion Hall has been a past president of West Brook Country Club, Mansfield Rotary
Club, and the University Club of Mansfield. As president of the University Club he was part of
the selection committee in awarding scholarships. He created a charitable education fund for the
University Club and obtained the necessary 501(c) 3 tax status.
Right Excellent Companion Hall's Masonic record is as follows: He was raised to the sublime
degree of Master Mason in Venus Lodge No. 152; he served as Master of Venus Lodge and High
Priest of Mansfield Chapter No. 28; is a member of Mansfield Council No. 94 and Mansfield
Commandery No. 21; he is a member of and was currently serving as Sovereign Master of
Mohican Council No. 134, Allied Masonic Degrees. He was a member of Charlemagne Conclave,
Red Cross of Constantine; Shannon Council, Knight Masons; Royal Order of Scotland; Aladdin
Shrine; Richland County Scottish Rite Association; Mansfield Shrine Club; Past Patron of Ruth
Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star; Order of Amaranth; and the Order of the White Shrine of
Jerusalem. He is a member of the Ancient Accepted Scottish, Valley of Columbus where he
worked on many degree teams and served on the Board of Trustees. Illustrious Brother Hall was
coroneted an Inspector General, Honorary 33rd on October 3, 1995.
Right Excellent Companion Hall was appointed to the Committee on Jurisprudence of the
Grand Chapter of Ohio in 1996 and then in 1997 was appointed chairman of that committee. For
his outstanding dedication and performance as chairman, he was recommended and appointed as
Grand Parliamentarian of the Grand Chapter in 2000 whereupon he received his Grand Officer’s
apron and jewel and the title of Right Excellent Companion. He served this Grand Chapter with
honor and distinction and has earned the respect of all members. His attention to detail and his
knowledge of Capitular law was a passion within himself. Right Excellent Companion Hall
served on the advisory committee of the Royal Arch Foundation and was instrumental in setting
up the Constitution and bylaws for the Foundation and assisting the trustees in attaining their
501(c) 3 status from the IRS.
Right Excellent Companion Hall worked with the officers and trustees to form a working
relationship with the Adopt America Network. And now, through the Royal Arch Foundation's
efforts, we commit to his memory the over $100,000 that has been donated to Adopt America
network.He passed on the 9th day of September and footsteps that Right Excellent Companion Hall has
left in the sands of time will always be remembered in this Grand Chapter as we are left with but
the memories of outstanding Man and an outstanding Mason.”
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter22
Respectfully submitted,
Robert D. Crabbs, Past Grand High Priest
MEMORIAL RESOLUTION FOR EDIEANN DIDHAM
Past President, Adopt America Network
“Most Worshipful Grand Master, Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Distinguished Guests and
Companions –
This may be the first time in the history of the Grand Chapter that we have offered a memorial
tribute to a woman. It is certainly proper and fitting that we do so today for Edieann Didham, the
former president of Adopt America Network was instrumental in forming the partnership that
began between Adopt America and the Royal Arch Masons.
Edieann passed from this life after on February 9, 2008 after long illness. Her husband,
Companion Jim Didham, was at her side, holding her hand. A service of remembrance was held
at the Hanniman Funeral Chapel in Bowling Green Ohio on Thursday, February 14 with a number
of Grand Chapter officers and foundation trustees attending the service. It was a time for us to
come together to celebrate all that she had accomplished, rather than as a time to mourn her
passing.
In May, 2000, Edieann joined Adopt America as its president after having just retired from
Bowling Green State University, only one week prior. It was soon made clear that she had found
her calling and set out to make her passion a reality - a home for every child. For four years
Edieann ate, drank, and slept Adopt America Network. She strove for excellence in all she did
and challenged those who worked for her to do the same. More kids were finding homes than ever
before and the message was reverberating that Adopt America was on its way to becoming a true
leader among adoption programs in the country.
The accomplishments during Edieann’s tenure were extensive. Her ability to engage others in
the mission of Adopt America help expand support both locally and regionally. She worked
tirelessly in the partnership with the Royal Arch Masons in bringing a new dimension to Adopt
America's outreach and family recruitment. Her expansion of AAN’s adoption specialist’s
network of volunteers brought Adopt America to many states. And most importantly, under
Edieann’s leadership, new methods of providing service to many families and children's
caseworkers were developed - this included the development of AAN's copyrighted electronic
matching program that resulted in the matching of over 500 children with families during her
tenure.
She was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Findlay; ordained a Stephens Minister and
served as a member of Stephen’s Ministry teaching staff. She was a member of Grand Rapids
Chapter Order of the Eastern Star and Findlay Assembly, Social Order of the Beauceant.
She worked tirelessly as a liaison to the Royal Arch Masons in the state of Ohio. She brought a
zest for life and a commitment to children in everything she did. Those that she met along the
way can attest to her spirited approach; in her resolve regarding the importance of a family in the
life of a child. She will be deeply missed; she will long be
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 23
celebrated. Her spirit lives in all of us who share her passion, her dedication, and her deep love for
children
Respectfully submitted, Wayne S. Dill, Past Grand High Priest
MEMORIAL RESOLUTION FOR DANIEL DICKSON ACTON
Past Grand Marshal
“Right Excellent Companion Daniel Dickson Acton died on September 9, 2008. He was a
Lancaster High School graduate, class of 1936. Dan was director of the Package Development
Laboratories of Anchor Hocking Glass Corp. He retired from that position after 40 years of
service. Dan was an inventor and was named on over 40 United States patents.
Daniel was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Lancaster. He was married to
Joan Acton who preceded him in death. They had three children, Joann, Leslie and Daniel; six
grand children and six great-grand children.
Right Excellent Companion Acton was active in Freemasonry in Lancaster. He was a member
of Lancaster Lodge No. 57, F.&.A.M., Lancaster Chapter No. 11, R.A.M. where he was a Past
High Priest; Past Illustrious Master of Lancaster Council No. 3, R.&S.M., Lancaster Commandery
No 2, Knights Templar. Other Masonic affiliations included Ohio River Valley Council, Allied
Masonic Degrees; Gallilean Tabernacle H.R.A.K.T.P.; M.Z. Krieder Chapter No. 145, Order of
the Eastern Star; Alladin Shrine; Tarhe Shrine Club’ A.A.S.R., Valley of Columbus; and served
this Grand Chapter as Grand Marshal for Most Excellent Companion Dwight Kane.
Daniel was an active and true friend with a sharp mind and was a dear friend of mine. Years
ago when I was serving as Commander of Lancaster Commandery and was doing the Mark Master
degree in Chapter and serving as Worthy Patron in Eastern Star, I gave the obligation in an
Eastern Star meeting and in the middle of it I suddenly got into the Mark Master obligation and I
caught Dan out of the corner of my eye and he had this marvelous smile on his face. He sat there
and watched me intently. Generally, an older person, as I am now, would kind’a chew you out,
but not Dan. …..that was the marvelous way Dan did things.
Dan’s passing represents the end of a tradition. He is, I believe, the last of Dwight Kane’s
officers, and so, he sorely will be missed among us.
Listen to the 23rd Psalm –
‘The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want; He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; he
leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul; he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his names sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for thou art with
me; thy rod & thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; thou annointest my head with
oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of
the Lord forever.”
Respectfully submitted, Raymond F. Sharritts, Grand Chaplain
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter24
Necrology Report (Continued)
“My text today is taken from Second Book of Timothy, Chapter 4 - verse 17: ‘The Lord stood
with me, and He strengthened me’.
As we have listened today to remembrances of individuals who have touched every one of our
lives; who in a sense have woven themselves into the fabric of our existence and have done for us
what needs to be done for everyone who is a Chapter member. They have shared of themselves
and they shared the very best of what it means to be a Mason and to be part of being a Royal Arch
Mason. To the fact that they have transformed us, and changed us, enriched us, and empowered
us. They will always be with us.
They've done exactly what Paul is trying to say to Timothy – ‘that Christ stands with us and he
strengthens us’ and no matter what we face in life, nothing will really overwhelm us or will
destroy us. That's a great gift for us. It is something, especially as the world is being turned
upside down for us right now. You and I need to get a hold of and we need to anchor ourselves
and say what we are and what we have been taught. And the philosophy that is behind us as
Masons will enable us to survive anything that comes to us. We have that strength and we have
that promise.
My children live in Florida and decided that, after four hurricanes a few years ago it was time
to come north. I received a phone call from my daughter. They lived on a property with 80 oak
trees and after the last group of hurricanes hit them, all 80 of those
oak trees - massive ones came down around their house. I received a phone call with this little
feeble voice – ‘we are all right but we've been through inexperience that we will never go through
again and it's time to move!’ My daughter now lives in Cincinnati.
I think about this. All of us go through unique experiences. As we’ve listened to each other,
it's been a unique coming together this year because many of our loved ones and friends of this
Grand Chapter have had terrible illnesses and we've lost very important people that are part of us.
So you start to look at yourself and look at life. We have to realize that life is a gift. Life is not
one of those things that goes on and on and on. It is a gift and it is a responsibility that you and I
have. What are we going to do with it?
It’s one of the things that I, as a clergy person, have appreciated about Masonry. Masonry
teaches us is that tomorrow when we come to assemble to labor, we may not be there and someone
else will be in our place. There is no guarantee that when I go to sleep tonight I will wake up in
the morning. I must take the life that I have and use it to the best of my abilities and see what
God offers me and what I can do for it. Why bring something down when we want to celebrate?
Because Paul says to Timothy the most important thing in the midst of life, in the midst of our
living, in the midst of our remembering, and that's the most important thing, of this burden of
being a Necrologist, is to say the name, to remember the person, and to know what they have
meant to us and what they mean and what they have added to our life. What we have learned in
that relationship, in that time of enrichment - we become better men and we approach life and we
approach this world and the gift that God gives us- that we add to it what others have given us.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 25
The little community located just west of us is where I grew up. I grew up on a street of
people, although my ancestry is Scotch-Irish, were people who came from the Black Forest and
every morning they scrubbed their porches down and they spoke to each other in low German -
‘Wie geht es lhnen?’ During World War II they were quiet about that but everybody knew
everybody. Every morning as I got ready to leave to go to school the same question and
admonition was given - remember who you are and who your family is.
I believe that we as Royal Arch Masons need to keep that before us - remember who you are
and what you stand for. Remember the names that we have read this day and the names of those
you have read in your chapters and the men who have made your life possible. Say them over and
over again and remember the gifts they have brought to you for it is a special gift that God gives
us. Remember that God stands in your midst - that he stands with you in your time of grief, in
your time of joy, and in the times of uncertainty and that is an empowering thing.
Amen.”
IN MEMORIAM
2007 - 2008
Ohio
Grand Chapter, R.A.M. Daniel Dickson Acton, Past Grand Marshal
Died September 9, 2008
Edieann Didham, Past President, Adopt American Network
Died February 9, 2008
George Hall, Grand Parliamentarian Emeritus
Died September 13, 2008
Dewey A. McClure, Gr. Guard Emeritus,
Died March 9, 2008
George T. Rosendaul, Past Dist. Deputy Gr. High Priest
Died February 21, 2008
Grand Commandery, K.T. Charles R. Albertson, Past Grand Commander 2000
Died November 11, 2007
Robert S. Schoedinger, Past Grand Commander 1966
Died July 18, 2008
Roy C. Ritter, Past Grand Commander 2004
Died August 12, 2008
Other Jurisdictions
South Carolina Willard F. Bond, Jr. PGHP 1976, Died May 25, 2008
Appointments
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter26
It was my pleasure to, according to the Rules and Regulations of this Grand Chapter, to make
the following appointments during my term as Grand High Priest. Each of these Companions has
served this Grand Chapter in due form and I thank all of them for their support and loyalty to me
and their dedication to their duties.
Grand Chaplain and Necrologist R.E.C. F. Raymond Sharritts
Grand Guard R.E.C. Herbert L. Clonch
Grand Guard Emeritus R.E.C. Dewey A McClure
Grand Marshal R.E.C. David L. Vassar
Grand Historian R.E.C. Norman G. Lincoln
Grand Fraternal Correspondent R.E.C. Glen L. Opp
Grand Musician R.E.C. Don R. Lutz
Grand Musician Emeritus R.E.C. Richard L. Jordan
As prescribed by section 25.01 of the Grand Chapter By-Laws, I appointed the required
standing Committees and other necessary committees to serve our Grand Chapter. I appointed
twenty-five District Deputies Grand High Priest to represent me in the nineteen Capitular
Districts, and twenty-five District Education Officers to also serve in their respective Districts. A
complete listing of the District Deputies Grand High Priest, District Education Officers, and
Committees was included in Bulletin No. 1 and will be included in the printed proceedings of the
annual Communication of this Grand Chapter. Last but certainly not least, it was my honor to
appoint as my Grand Aide E.C. Harold “Gus” Robl, a Mason, a Companion and a Friend
Grand Representatives
One of the great things about this Fraternity is that it is worldwide. We have sister jurisdictions
in many locations and it is our pleasure to have representatives from Ohio to serve as liaison with
the representatives of the other jurisdictions. How great it is to know that nearly wherever we
travel we can find fellow Companions with whom to enjoy fellowship.
Vacancies from Ohio during the year are as below:
EC Leonard Markowitz, health Israel
REC George T. Rosendaul, deceased Italy
REC Verne R. Rinehart, retired Mexico
MEC Paul Nyitray, deceased New Zealand
REC Wendell Kemper, retired South Australia
This year it was my pleasure to appoint the following Grand Representatives of the Grand
Chapter of Ohio near our Sister Grand Jurisdictions upon recommendation by their Grand High
Priest. They are as follows,
George R. O’Leary Nova Scotia, Canada
Mark E. Irwin Delaware
James D. Speakman Kansas
Carl J. Hassum New York
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 27
It was my pleasure to recommend the following Grand Representatives to Sister Grand
Jurisdictions near the Grand Chapter of Ohio. All of these recommendations are still being
considered. They are as follows:
Barry J. Siegel Israel
James C. Eckard Italy
Jeffrey L. Addis Mexico
Robert D. Blankenhorn, Jr. South Australia
Depositories
North Akron Savings Bank was designated as the depository for the General Funds and other
funds for the Grand Chapter pursuant to sections 11.02 and 11.03 of the Grand Chapter By-Laws.
Surety Bonds
In conformance to section 11.01 and 13.02 of the By-Laws of this Grand Chapter, surety bonds
for the Grand Secretary and the Grand Treasurer are in force with the Western Surety Company in
the amount of 10,000.00 each. As was reported last year, the elected Secretaries and Treasurers of
the constituent Chapters are no longer covered by this surety Bond. The constituent Chapters
should secure their own bonding.
Safety Deposit Box
On July 1,2008, I visited, as per tradition, the First Merit Bank, Barberton Branch, with the
Grand Secretary to review the status of all items stored in the safety deposit vault of the Grand
Chapter. As per section 11.03 of the By-Laws of the Grand Chapter, the safety deposit box is not
to be opened unless in the presence of two Grand Chapter Officers. Upon review it was
determined that all Certificates of Deposit as recorded by the Grand Secretary were up to date and
current with the bank statements. Also reviewed were the original hand written Ritual and the type
written Ritual and microfilmed copied of the Annual Returns. Three modem Past Grand High
Priest Jewels and one old style PGHP jewel were examined. The Grand Secretary is commended
for his maintenance of the safety deposit box.
Dispensations
A listing of the thirty dispensations granted to the Chapters in this jurisdiction appears in
“Appendix A” of the proceedings.
By – Laws Approved
The following chapters submitted changes to their By-Laws this year and were approved by the
Grand High Priest. They are as follows:
DATE PURPOSE
March 11, 2008 To American Union Chapter # 1 amendment to By-Laws, to appoint
rather than to elect the Three Masters of the Veils, to elect officers
of the Chapter in May rather than in
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter28
June, to increase the membership fee by affiliation to $15.00
March 13, 2008 To Ashlar Chapter # 213 amendment to By-Laws, to establish the
stated meeting date to the second Wednesday of each month, with
special provisions for conflicts with calendar holidays.
March 14, 2008 To Covenant-Thatcher Chapter # 222 amendment to By-Laws, to
change it's meeting location to 23844 Lorain Road, North Olmsted,
the former apartments of Cleveland Chapter # 148 and to change it's
stated meeting night to the 2nd and 4th Thursday, except July and
August and with
special provisions for the holiday weeks in November and
December.
July 06, 2008 To Hamilton Chapter # 21 amendment to By-Laws, to set the stated
meetings to the 2nd Monday of each month with exception of July
and August.
Proxies Issued
I authorized the following Companions to represent the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons
of Ohio in my name at various functions that I could not attend.
October 10, 2007 To REC Robert J. Draye, Grand King, to represent me at the Grand
Convocation of the Grand Chapter of West Virginia, held October
24/25, 2007.
January 05, 2008 To REC John C. Watkins, DDGHP the 3rd Capitular District, to
represent me at the Grand Convocation of the Grand Chapter of
North Carolina.
January 22, 2008 To REC Companion Richard P. Williams, the Grand Representative
of Ohio to the Grand Chapter of South Carolina, to represent me at
the Grand Convocation of the Grand Chapter of South Carolina held
March 9/11, 2008.
January 24, 2008 To REC Louis S. VanSlyck, Past Grand Fraternal Correspondent, to
represent me that the Grand Convocation of the Grand Chapter of
North Dakota, held March 14/15, 2008.
January 31, 2008 To REC Robert J. Draye, Grand King, to represent me at the Grand
Convocation of the Grand Chapter of New York, held March
7/8,2008.
January 31, 2008 To MEC Alan D. Hart, PGHP, to represent me at the East Central
Regional Conference of the General Grand Chapter of Royal Arch
Masons International, held March 7/8, 2008.
March 13, 2008 To REC R. Keith O'Dell, DDGHP the 5th Capitular District and the
Grand Representative from Ohio to Kansas, to represent me at the
Grand Convocation of the Grand Chapter of Kansas held April 2/3,
2008.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 29
April 13, 2008 To REC F. Raymond Sharritts, Grand Chaplain and Grand
Representative to the Most Excellent Grand Chapter of Prince Hall
in Ohio, to represent me at the Grand Convocation of the Most
Excellent Grand Chapter of Prince Hall in Ohio, held April 26,
2008.
August 01, 2008 To MEC Jean W. Justus, PGHP, to represent me at the 67th
Triennial Convocation of the General Grand Chapter International,
to be held August 27/30, 2008.
Grand Lodge of Ohio, 200th Anniversary
This past year was the celebration of the 200th anniversary of the founding of the Grand Lodge
of Ohio. A number of events were planned for this celebration across this great State of Ohio. We
sincerely thank our Grand Master, MWB Ronald Winnett for
including, not only the Grand Chapter, but the entire York Rite of Freemasonry in Ohio in many
of the special events held this past year.
As Grand High Priest, I was privileged to present the main program at the Founders Day
banquet in the 15th Masonic District. The Grand Chapter was well represented at the Grand
Master's parade held on June 21, 2008, in Columbus, were a re-enactment of the Statehouse
cornerstone laying was presented.
At another 200th anniversary event held in Marietta on the 4th of July, the three Grand
Presiding officers of the York Rite were invited to participate in a parade through the streets of
Marietta to the Mound Cemetery, where a special plaque recognizing General and Past Grand
Master Rufus Putnam was placed on his grave site.
And later in July, a special dinner was held near Chillicothe, where representatives from the
original 6 Lodges that formed the Grand Lodge of Ohio, met to have a special evening together.
Attending this event was the Grand Master and his Grand Officers and once again the three Grand
presiding officers of the York Rite and their ladies, were guests of the Grand Lodge.
We were also honored to represent the Grand Chapter at the Ohio at a special Ohio Masonic
Home Day in September.
While cooperation between the Grand Lodge and the York Rite of Ohio has been strong, this
year the doors were opened further. I again Thank our Grand Master for the privileges he
presented to us and to me and pledge to him and the other Grand Lodge Officers that we will work
diligently to make sure that the doors of cooperation remain open.
Correspondance
Communication is the key to success. And to be successful in our Masonic endeavors we also
need to communicate. It was very enlightening this year to be a part of the mass of correspondence
that it took to conduct the business of this Grand Chapter. We communicated with many
Companions in this State and in our Sister Jurisdictions. Most was done with hard copy and snail
mail. But we did utilize the wonders of e-mail to
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter30
speed up the process. I even received one e-mail from our Grand Secretary. But he did follow it
with a letter.
It is impossible to list all of the letters and e-mail that was generated this past year in this
proceeding. All that required copies are on file and available for further reference.
Chapter Mergers and Consolidations
Each year we all work hard to keep our Chapters alive and well. But as we all know sometimes
even the best and hardest work is not productive. Certainly the goal of all Grand High Priests is to
have a year with membership gain and no loss of Chapters. This was my goal as well. I learned
early very shortly after being installed that, contrary to the belief of many, the Grand High Priest
does not have a magic wand and sometimes things do happen that we cannot control. Certainly the
reasons are various and we have seen in the recent past few years that finances of the Chapters or
their supporting Symbolic Lodges has had a significant effect on the activities of the Chapters.
As of the writing of this report I unfortunately report that there were 2 consolidations this year.
Alliance Chapter # 83 did consolidate with Canton Chapter # 84. Based on the facts presented by
the Companions in the 18th Capitular District, it did appear that Alliance Chapter did make all
attempts to remain active, but fate was against them. We wish them well and urge Canton Chapter
# 84 to learn from this and make this action a positive event for the 18th District.
Also, in the 4th Capitular District, Delta Chapter # 179 consolidated with Norwood Chapter #
193. Although there were a number of circumstances here beyond Delta Chapter's control and
some felt it was not the best action for the Chapter, it was made clear to me that this action was the
only acceptable course of action. This consolidation was approved with reluctance on my part but
also with the hope that this will create a stronger Norwood Chapter.
Although not completed, we are aware of one other potential consolidation. It is another
stemming from the loss of their apartments by the actions of the supporting Symbolic Lodge or
Temple Associations. I choose to not release the name of this Chapter under the circumstances.
Constitution of Fayette Mark Lodge #4
While we just reported the loss of two Chapters, this past year did gain us a newly Constituted
Mark Lodge. On January 27, 2008, the Grand Chapter Officers had the pleasure to constitute
Fayette Mark Master Lodge # 4 in Jeffersonville. This was an exciting event for us as there is no
official ritual to constitute a new Mark Lodge and we had to, with the help of those who have gone
before, write the ceremony. This was a very good day for Capitular Masonry in Ohio.
Dedications and Re-Dedications
Each Capitular year there are Chapters that reach a milestone of 50, 100 or 150 years of
existence. This year was no different. The number eligible was a little lower than the past few
years but we did have the opportunity to conduct this service for those
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 31
Chapters. It was the pleasure of the Grand Chapter Officers to perform these duties. I thank each
of them for their support in these events. Even with traveling expenses being as high as they are,
the Grand Officers never faltered in the performance of these important duties. We also thank the
Grand Ladies for their support. They made each event more special. The following is a summary
of these ceremonies:
November 3, 2007 Marshall Chapter # 47 Dedication of new Apartments
April 26, 2008 Trowel Chapter # 70 150 years
July 13, 2008 Ada Chapter # 138 Dedication of new Apartments
Sept. 14, 2008 Twin Valley Chapter # 240 Dedication of new Apartments
The ceremony at Marshall Chapter was special as it was our first and just prior to the beginning
of the ceremony, REC Larry Hess, DDGHP of the 9th District suffered a heart attack and was
rushed to the hospital. Needless to say this did not help to settle our nerves.
We offer our best wishes to these Chapters who have, for various reasons, moved to new
Apartments. May your future be rewarding to you and those supporting you.
Grand Officers Meetings
Each year it is the tradition of the Grand Officers to meet 4 times to discuss many and various
topics. Not only do the Grand Officers attend these meetings but the PGHP and the DDGHP. Our
Ladies are present and share in the activities of the day. This past year we were fortunate to have
some very interesting topics to discuss and we did accomplish the business of the Grand Chapter
in good fashion. I thank all who attended and participated in these meetings. The meetings were as
follows:
December 1, 2007 Holiday Inn South, Springfield
February 9, 2008 Bellefontaine Masonic Center, Bellefontaine
May 10, 2008 Delaware Masonic Temple, Delaware
August 9, 2008 Delaware Masonic Temple, Delaware
Youth Organizations
It is always a pleasure to meet with the various Youth organizations in the State of Ohio. I have
remarked each time we meet with them that I am glad we do not compete with them in ritual
presentation. Each time I observe their work, I am brought to tears from the pride I feel inside. It is
so very comforting to know that these young men and ladies, who are the cream of the crop, are a
part of Freemasonry.
Unfortunately I was unable to attend the annual session for the Jobs Daughters in Ohio but I
was well represented by REC James W. Himmelright, Grand Principal Sojourner. Thank you Jim
for doing this. I was, however, able to attend the opening session of the Rainbow for Girls and the
Masonic Recognition Dinner at the Grand Session of DeMolay. It was truly an honor to be there
and at the DeMolay session, I was further honored by receiving the Legion of Honor.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter32
Lady Virginia and I attended the Reception for MWB C. Michael Watson who was elected and
installed as the Grand Master of DeMolay International for this next year. Congratulations to
MWB Watson.
While attending these youth functions my representative or I was honored to present the Grand
Chapter financial contributions for their various scholarship programs.
And a special Thank You to R.E. Comp. H. Jeffery Shaw, Executive Director of Ohio
DeMolay for another year of service to the youth of Ohio.
Service Awards
We all know that each year service pins and cards are presented to our "senior" Companions.
This year was no different. I was fortunate to present a 70 year plaque to a good friend who lives
across the street from where I lived nearly 20 years ago. Ten years ago I presented him his 60 year
pin and card.
I thank all of the Chapters that made these service presentations in a timely manner. Each time
we do this it is so very easy to see the pride that these Companions have in their membership. And
a special thank you to those Chapters that allowed me to be a part of the service pin presentations
as we visited around the state this past year.
Royal Arch Charities
As a member of the Board of Directors of the Royal Arch Foundation, Royal Arch Charities
are very important to me. Whether it is Royal Arch Research Assistance (RARA), The Ohio
Masonic Homes or the Royal Arch Foundation working in conjunction with the Adopt America
Program, we support all of them. I want to thank the Companions across this great state who did
make contributions to these charities this past year. And Thank You to those District Associations
who gave so generously to Lady Virginia's Royal Arch Foundation project.
Although we lost Edieann Didham this past year, the Adopt America Program is still going
strong. As a representative of the Royal Arch Foundation and as Grand High Priest, I was honored
to present a check to them in the amount of $ 13,000.00 at their annual fund raiser. Total donations
through the Royal Arch Foundation have exceeded $100,000.00.
RARA is still a major player in Ohio and we encourage all of you to continue to support their
efforts. They have changed their location in Colorado and have changed their name, but they are
still doing the same good work. Thank you to all who have made contributions the RARA.
Ohio Masonic Homes:
Over the past two years by virtue of my office, I was invited to attend the quarterly meetings of
the Board of Trustees of the Ohio Masonic Homes. Although I could not attend all of them, I can
tell you that what a privilege it is to see this Board in action. The Home system is in very capable
hands and you can be assured that they are "Charting Their Course for the Future". I also want to
especially thank WB David Bannerman and RWB Timothy B. Strawn for their constant and
continued devotion to the home system in general and to the Springfield Campus in particular.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 33
As a Companion in the 6th District, I am spoiled because we have had the opportunity to utilize
the facilities of the Springfield Campus for many, many years. I urge all of you to visit one of the
homes in your area.
We also had opportunity to visit the Ohio Eastern Star Home in Mt. Vernon. This is a very nice
facility as well.
Long term health care and retirement possibilities are there for us and our families. All we need
to do to make this possible is to keep our membership dues current.
Visitations
Following in the footprints of two fully retired Grand High Priests posed a great challenge to
me when it came to traveling across this Great State to visit Masonic meetings. Did I get to all of
the places I wanted to visit, no I did not. And I apologize to those of you that we could not visit.
But even with a full time job and $4.00 gasoline, we still made many trips and drove thousands of
miles. We were on the road 217 days and attended 193 different events. I used to say that the
Companions in the state gave me the name of God, because every time I walked through the
Lodge room door I could hear them say "Oh God! He's here!"
Each and every time we did attend a function it was a special event. As I stated earlier in this
presentation, you treated us like royalty and I am very grateful for your hospitality. I was able to
visit Masonic buildings this year that I had never visited before. Most of these buildings are very
beautiful. We need to be very proud of our facilities.
We were fortunate and only encountered really bad weather on two occasions. It was very cold
many times but only twice did I begin to question my judgment about being out there in it.
I was only able to visit with three of our sister jurisdictions, but the Grand Chapter was
represented at 9 others by my proxies. I also had the opportunity to receive the Honorary 33rd
Degree in Providence R.I. in August. What a tremendous honor that was. Two of my class mates
were Bobby G. Campbell and Ronald Winnett. Perhaps you have heard of them.
Speaking of them, what a thrill and honor it was to serve with my good friends, Most illustrious
Bobby G. Campbell, now a Past Grand Master of the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masons
in Ohio, Right Eminent Burch Zehner, the Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery of Ohio
and Knight Donald W. Shoemaker, the Eminent Prior of the Ohio Priory # 18, Knight York Cross
of Honour. I have known all three of these Companions for many years. We had a great time
traveling together with them and our ladies. I congratulate each of them for a successful year as
presiding officer.
Certainly I wish again to Congratulate and Thank MWB Ronald L. Winnett, the Grand Master
of Masons in Ohio. I had not met MWB Winnett until early in my year as Grand King. And with
the 200th anniversary events I was not sure where our relationship would go. Our paths crossed
many times this past year and we did enjoy his and Lady Linda's presence at many events. Not
only did our respect for each other grow and flourish but our friendship as well. It was my
pleasure and honor to have served this past year with this great Ohio Mason.
In Appendix B, you will find a complete listing of my visitations.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter34
Recommendations
1. In these times of uncertain financial concerns, we need to develop a method whereby we
combine inspections and traveling obligations for our Companions.
2. Continue to promote the Endowed Membership Program.
3. Assign the responsibility of the "Getting to Know Your Grand Family" book to the Grand
Master of the First Veil.
4. At the least, the Grand Necrologist should be an ordained minister. At the least, the Grand
Chaplain as well.
5. Continue to promote the Unity of the York Rite, the Scottish Rite and the Symbolic Lodges in
Ohio.
6. The finances of the Grand Chapter need to be managed by the Grand Treasurer and the
Chairman of the Finance Committee.
7. Continue to improve and develop the "Peculiar Stone" skit for presentation at various functions
and meetings.
8. Maintain the quality of the Grand Chapter web site. It is to be proud of. Keep it that way.
9. Work with the other York Rite Bodies to streamline the Grand Sessions to a four-day event.
10. Consult with the Grand Lodge 200th Anniversary Committee to gain knowledge to benefit our
200th Anniversary Committee.
Appreciations
I could easily say Thank You to everyone that I have ever known and call it a day. That would
be the easy way out. But not the proper way out. This adventure that Virginia and I have been
privileged to participate in has been the cruise of a lifetime.
Past Grand High Priests have remarked that "No Man is an Island and that this is a job that no
one person can do alone". They were and are right. But isn't any part of life a journey that needs
the support of others?
We here in the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons have just added another dimension to
ordinary life. Without the help, the assistance, and let us face it, the love of our fellow
Companions, none of us can complete our Masonic journey, regardless of what it is.
As a child I was raised in a Masonic family. At the time I did not know the effect that would
have on my future life and conduct. It always was in the back of my mind that my mother and
father were special people because they were involved in Masonry and the Eastern Stars. And
partially because of that involvement, here I am today.
Being a Mason in Bellefontaine and being the kind of person "that if I belong, then I am going
to be somebody" go hand in hand. I owe special appreciation to George Davidson Past Grand
Commander and Edgar Miller, Past Grand Master. Their influence ignited the flame that has
driven me to this podium.
Those who I thank for pushing me over the edge to the Grand Line are REC Al Johnson, MEC
William Berry, the late MEC Robert Maxwell, REC Bill McCarthy, the late REC Donald Poland,
REC Louis VanSlyck, and MEC Robert D. Crabbs. They set an
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 35
example for me that I tried to emulate and because of their example I was fortunate to be asked to
become the Grand Master of the First Veil. And as it is stated, "The Rest is History".
To the Companions of the 6th Capitular District, you have supported me to the end of the earth.
I will forever be thankful to you for your support over the years. Even today the Companions of
the 6th District are working hard for this Grand Chapter.
All of the Grand Officers before me and behind me have been a great influence on my
progression through the Grand line. Time and time again it has been said that, "these are the
greatest Grand Officers in the state". They are and I am a better person because of my association
with them. I thank each of you for what you have done, what you will do and for being my friends.
To all of the Companions of this Grand jurisdiction, Thank You for your warm greetings, your
friendly smiles, your dedication to the purposes of this Great Fraternity and for allowing me to
experience this wonderful opportunity.
To my Brethren, Companions and fellow Sir Knights in Bellefontaine, you have been great.
Perhaps in a little while things will get back to normal. But it has been fun and remember, I am
just one of the guys.
To MEC Dale G. Ray, Jr. and Lady Jackie, as I have stated before, until you have been in this
chair, you have no idea of how hard you work and how devoted you are to the Grand Chapter. I
thank you for all of your assistance and time that you have given to me.
To EC Michael Spisak, Chairman of the Jurisprudence Committee, I know you have been very
busy this year and I sincerely Thank You for what you have done for me and this Grand Chapter.
To my "Buoys", REC Bob Draye and REC Donald Losasso, very soon this will be yours. I
know you will take good care of it. Thanks for "watching my back". Perhaps when I grow up, we
can talk eye to eye.
To David, Judy and Gus, what a thrill for all of the miles and all of the smiles. Let's continue to
travel together, but perhaps not to this extent. There is no other way to say it' "I love all of you".
To MEC Kermit V. Zimmerman and MEC James M. McDonald, thanks for letting me tag
along.
To the Lovely and Talented Lady Virginia, thanks for letting me take the helm of this great
vessel and thanks for being my cruise director. I do think there was a time or two when mutiny
was the operative word, but we worked out the issues and continued on our course.
Just as in our big boat, I don't leave the dock without you and I can't bring it back to the dock
without you. When we left the dock last October you were there to "push us off" and as we return
to the dock this October you are still there ready to throw the lines to those waiting for us on the
dock.
Thank you for your loyalty, devotion, sense of humor and your love. By the way, just so I don't
forget, Happy Birthday!! I love you.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter36
Conclusion
Each journey we take comes to an end. And it is nearly that time. But each journey also brings
memories and growth. I leave this office a better person because of my association with good
people and with memories I will always cherish. As I heard the past Grand Worthy Advisor of
Rainbow for Girls in Ohio say and I quote "Don't cry because it's over, Be Happy because it
happened".
The new skipper is about to take the helm. I'm sure he will steer this Grand Chapter on a new
straight and true course. I am confident that you will support him as well as you have supported
me. REC Draye will have no problem filling my shoes.
I once again want to remind you that regardless of where we are going or what you are doing,
You Will Never Reach Your Destination if You never Try.
What an opportunity and honor you have allowed me to experience. As Bob Hope used to say,
"Thanks for the memories." May God Bless us all.
Respectfully submitted,
Garis E. Pugh
Garis E. Pugh
Grand High Priest
The report of the Grand High Priest was received with a standing ovation. A motion was madeand seconded that the report be accepted, approved, and referred to the Committee on TopicalReference for division and reference. The motion passed by voice vote.
____________________________________
Appendix A ( Dispensations Granted )
2007 – 2008
DATE PURPOSE
October 4, 2007 To Toledo-Port Lawrence Chapter # 161 to hold a special election
and installation for the office of Scribe.
October 4, 2007 To York-Temple Chapter # 155 to hold a special election and
installation for the offices of Captain of the Hosts and Principal
Sojourner.
October 4, 2007 To Marshall Chapter # 47 to continue meeting in the undedicated
apartments of the Elyria Masonic Center until such time that a
Dedication Service can be conducted by the Grand Chapter.
October 7, 2007 To Fort Miami-Calumet Chapter # 191 to hold a special election
and installation for the office of Captain of the Host at it is stated
convocation on October 9, 2007.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 37
October 14, 2007 To Wapakoneta Chapter # 183 to hold its annual inspection in the
apartments of St. Marys Chapter # 51 on October 27, 2007.
October 21, 2007 To Blanchester Chapter # 153 to hold it annual inspection in the
Apartments of Morrow Chapter # 143 on November 3,2007.
October 21, 2007 To Oberlin Chapter # 219 to hold its annual inspection in the
Apartments of Marshall Chapter # 47 on November 3,2007.
October 22, 2007 To East Liverpool Chapter # 100 to conduct business meetings in
the East Liverpool Masonic Temple dining
room. This is an effort to conserve energy and eliminate the need to
climb three flights of stairs. All Degree work will be conducted in
the dedicated apartments of East Liverpool Chapter # 100.
October 25,2007 To Wyoming Chapter # 146 to hold its annual inspection in the
Apartments of Morrow Chapter # 143 on November 3,2007.
November 1, 2007 To Lafayette Chapter # 60 to conduct business meetings in the
undedicated "Blue Room" of the Bellefontaine Masonic Center. All
Degree work will be performed in the dedicated apartments of the
Bellefontaine Masonic Center. This Dispensation will expire at
12:00 Midnight on October 8, 2008.
November 8,2007 To Franklin Chapter # 24 to hold its stated meeting and to confer
the Past Master Degree at the Dedicated Apartments of Tippecanoe
Lodge # 174 in Tipp City, Ohio on November 12, 2007.
December 2, 2007 To Ohio Chapter # 12 to hold a Joint-Stated meeting in the
Dedicated Apartments of York-Temple in Westerville, Ohio on
December 6,2007. This Dispensation will expire at 12:01 AM.,
December 7, 2007.
December 23, 2007 To Corwin-Webb Chapter # 205 to hold its stated and special
Convocations in the undedicated apartments of the Cleveland
Masonic & Performing Arts Center, 3615 Euclid Avenue,
Cleveland, Ohio. This Dispensation will be valid from November 1,
2007 and will expire at 12:00 midnight on October 31, 2008.
December 30, 2007 To Morrow Chapter # 143 to hold a special meeting with
Blanchester Chapter # 153 in the dedicated apartments of
Blanchester Chapter # 153 on January 8, 2007. This is necessary as
the January, 2008 stated meeting date of Morrow Chapter is New
Year's Day.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter38
January 28, 2008 To Delta Chapter # 179 to hold a special election and installation
for the purpose of replacing their High Priest, Secretary and
Principal Sojourner who have resigned their offices due to
employment change or ill health, with my permission.
February 26, 2008 To Medina County Chapter # 243 to hold a special meeting at The
Summit Masonic Complex in Akron, Ohio, to confer the Mark
Master Degree as part of the Valley of Akron's A.A.S.R. Spring
Reunion. The date of this meeting is April 19, 2008.
March 06, 2008 To the Companions of the Royal Arch Chapters and the
Brothers of North Bend Mark Master Lodge # 1 in the
4th Capitular District, Royal Arch Masons of Ohio, to hold special
meetings in the apartments of Norwood Chapter on AprilS, 2008 to
confer all 4 Chapter Degrees as part of a York Rite Festival in the
4th Capitular District.
March 11, 2008 To Ada Chapter # 138 in the 10th Capitular District to hold
Stated and Special meetings in the undedicated apartments of Sager
Lodge # 513, in Lafayette Ohio. The need for this Dispensation is
due to the fact that the Ada Masonic Temple has been sold.
March 30, 2008 To Middletown Chapter # 87 in the 3rd Capitular District to confer
an outdoor Mark Master Degree in conjunction with a York Rite
Festival to be held at the Middletown Masonic Temple on May 16-
17, 2008.
March 30, 2008 To Grand River Chapter # 104 in the 20th Capitular District to
host a special meeting for a composite cast to confer the annual
outdoor Mark Master Degree in the 20th District. This meeting is to
be conducted on June 7, 2008, in Ashtabula County.
April 3, 2008 To the Central Ohio York Rite Festival, to be held at the
Dedicated apartments of York Temple Chapter # 155, to confer the
Degrees of the Grand Chapter of Ohio on Brother Arstein Knutson,
a Brother in good standing of St. Olaus Lodge # 1, the Grand Lodge
of Norway. This is granted as it is the desire of Brother Knutson to
become a Royal Arch Mason and there is no York Rite of Masonry
in Norway. It is the pleasure of this Grand High Priest to grant this
request.
April 13, 2008 To Friendship Chapter # 245 in the 3rd Capitular District to
receive credit for the presentation of the Royal Arch Degree at the
Dedicated apartments of Middletown Chapter # 87 as per
requirement of the Grand Chapter Constitution, Code and By-Laws
Resolution adopted
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 39
October 8, 1986 page 64. This does require that Friendship Chapter
# 245 does call for a special Convocation for said purpose.
April 18,2008 To All York Rite Festivals scheduled for 2008, The Grand
Chapter of Royal Arch Masons in Ohio to present the four
Chapter Degrees in full form and as per the Ritual of the Grand
Chapter of Ohio as a part of the Festivals.
May 29, 2008 To Scioto Chapter # 119, Kenton, Ohio, to accept the resignation of
Companion Zachary Justice, who was serving as King, due to
employment related issues. And to hold a special election and
installation to elect and install a
new King to finish the 2007-2008 Capitular year and to serve for the
200882009 Capitular year.
May 29,2008 To Wellsville Chapter # 55, Wellsville, Ohio, in the 19th Capitular
District, to move to the 15th Capitular District at their request. This
Dispensation is effective June 1, 2008 through October 15th 2009.
June 14,2008 To Hiram Chapter # 18, Massillon, Ohio, in the 18th Capitular
District, to hold a special officer installation on September 2,2008.
June 30, 2008 To Youngstown Chapter # 93, Youngstown, Ohio to convene
their stated meted in September, 2008, on the 15th day of September
as their regular stated meeting date of September 1, 2008 conflicts
with the Labor Day Holiday.
July 5, 2008 To East Palestine Chapter # 204, East Palestine, Ohio to hold a
special election and installation at their stated meeting on September
16,2008, to elect and install the offices of King and Scribe.
July 7,2008 To Silvercreek Chapter # 144, Garrettsville, Ohio, the 17th
Capitular District to hold a special meeting on September 20, 2008,
at the MacLearie Farm, 8736 SR 44, Ravenna, Ohio. The purpose of
the special meeting is to confer the Mark Master Degree in an
outdoor setting.
July 24, 2008 To Mt. Vernon Chapter # 23, Portsmouth, Ohio, in the 5th
Capitular District, to hold a special election of and installation of the
office of King, the 1S\ 2nd and 3rd Master of the Veils on August
25, 2008. The necessity of these special events is due to the fact that
at the annual election and installation of Mt. Vernon Chapter, these
Companions were not present.
August 4, 2008 To East Liverpool Chapter # 100, East Liverpool, Ohio in the
19th Capitular District, to hold a special election and installation on
September 15th, 2008. The election is to
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter40
elect the office of King and the installation is to install the King and
Master of the 1st Veil. Both were not elected or installed at their
Annual meeting due to employment conflicts.
August 12, 2008 To York-Temple Chapter # 155, Westerville, Ohio in the 11th
Capitular District, to conduct an outdoor Mark Master Degree at the
Olentangy Caverns. This event is to be held on August 30,2008.
August 12, 2008 To York-Temple Chapter # 155, Westerville, Ohio in the 11th
Capitular District, to hold a special election and installation to elect
and install the office of High Priest, if
necessary. This action is necessary due to health issues of the
elected High Priest.
August 12, 2008 To York-Temple Chapter # 155, Westerville, Ohio in the 11th
Capitular District, to conduct a special outdoor Mark Master Degree
at the Ohio Village Masonic Lodge building. This request is driven
by the 200th anniversary of the Grand Lodge in Ohio and the desire
of these Companions to perform Degree work at this location.
August 12, 2008 To Nugen Chapter # 124, Newcomerstown, Ohio in the 14th
Capitular District, to authorize EC Dennis Barlow to serve again as
High Priest. This Dispensation is necessary as a Grand Chapter
Resolution on Page 63 of the Grand Chapter Code only allows a
Companion to serve for three consecutive years without a
Dispensation from the Grand High Priest superseding the
Resolution.
August 12, 2008 To New Lexington Chapter # 149 in New Lexington, Ohio in the
13th Capitular District, to authorize EC Harry A. Willey to serve
again as High Priest. This Dispensation is necessary as a Grand
Chapter Resolution on page 63 of the Grand Chapter Code only
allows a Companion to serve for three consecutive years without a
Dispensation from the Grand High Priest superseding the
Resolution.
August 12, 2008 To Carey Chapter # 159, in Carey, Ohio, in the 7th Capitular
District, to authorize EC Kevin Kitzler to serve again as High
Priest. This Dispensation is necessary as a Grand Chapter
Resolution on page 63 of the Grand Chapter Code only allows a
Companion to serve for three consecutive years without a
Dispensation from the Grand High Priest superseding the
Resolution.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 41
Appendix B (Visitations) 2007-2008
DATE EVENT
10/ 4-5/2007 Grand Commandery, Columbus
10/ 08/2007 Walnut Chapter # 172, Annual Inspection, PM, 11th Dist.
10/09/2007 Presented a 70 year membership plaque, Bellefontaine 6th Dist.
10/12/2007 AAN Very Special Evening, Toledo
10/15/2007 Lafayette Chapter # 60, Stated, Bellefontaine 6th Dist.
10/15/2007 Logan Council # 85, Stated, Bellefontaine
10/15/2007 Bellefontaine # 209 F&AM Stated, Bellefontaine
10/18-20/2007 Grand Lodge of Ohio, Cincinnati
10/21/2007 6th District Re-Affirmation, OMH, Springfield
10/23/2007 Wooster Chapter # 27, Annual Inspection MM, Wooster, 10th Dist.
10/26/2007 Logan County 32 Club, Bellefontaine
10/27/2007 Inspection Wapak #183, PM /St.Marys #51 MEM, St. Marys, Dist 2
10/27/2007 Illustrious Grand Master Reception, Holiday Inn, Miamisburg
10/29/2007 GHP Reception Committee meeting, Springfield Holiday Inn,
10/30/2007 Bellevue Chapter # 113, Inspection, Royal Arch, Bellevue, 9th Dist.
11/02/2007 Grand Lodge Building, Grand Master's Deputy School, Worthington
11/03/2007 KYCH Annual Meeting, Canton
11/03/2007 Marshall Chapter # 47, Royal Arch Degree 4 Degree Day, 9th Dist.
11/03/2007 Marshall Chapter # 47, Dedication of new Apartments, 9th Dist.
11/05/2007 Bellefontaine Commandery # 61 Stated, Bellefontaine
11/06/2007 Bellefontaine Lodge # 209 Annual meeting, Bellefontaine
11/08/2007 Valley of Dayton Candidate orientation, Dayton
11/ 9-10/ 2007 Valley of Dayton, York Rite Grand Presiding Officers Class, Dayton
11/11/2007 Reception for the Prior of Ohio Priory # 18, London
11/12/2007 BMC Temple Board Meeting, Bellefontaine
11/16/2007 Millersburg Chapter # 86, Annual Inspection P M, 18th District
11/17/2007 6th District Royal Arch School, Marysville
11/17/2007 Grand Commander's Reception, Holiday Inn, Miamisburg
11/19/2007 OMH Board Meeting, Springfield
11/19/2007 Reception Committee Meeting, Holiday Inn, Springfield
11/19/2007 Lafayette Chapter # 60 Stated, Logan Council # 85 Inspection, Bellefontaine
11/20/2007 Lima Council # 20, Inspection, Lima
11/24/ 2007 Blanchester Council # 114 Inspection, Blanchester
11/26/2007 Friendship Chapter # 245, Inspection, West Carrollton, 3rd Dist.
11/29/2007 Holiday Inn Springfield, Reception committee, Springfield
11/30/2007 Holiday Inn Grand Family meeting and GHP Reception, Springfield
12/1-2/2007 Holiday Inn Grand Family meeting and GHP Reception, Springfield
12/03/2007 Bellefontaine Commandery # 61 Stated, Bellefontaine
12/04/2007 Bellefontaine Lodge # 209 Stated, Bellefontaine
12/05/2007 Marysville Chapter # 99, Inspection, Marysville, 6th District
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter42
12/07/2007 Ohio Northern Forrest # 188, Tall Cedars, Annual Meeting, Mt. Cory
12/08/2007 Trowel Chapter # 70, Inspection, Jackson, 5th Dist.
12/08/2007 American Union Chapter # 1, Inspection, Marietta, 13th Dist.
12/13/2007 Twin Valley Chapter # 240 Inspection, Germantown, 3rd. Dist.
12/13/2007 Dayton Reed Commandery Christmas Program, Dayton
12/15/2007 Hicksville Chapter # 188 Inspection, Hicksville, 1st Dist.
12/17/2007 Lafayette # 60/Logan Council # 85 Stated, Bellefontaine, 6th Dist.
12/18/2007 Bellefontaine # 209 Stated, E.A. Degree, Bellefontaine
12/19/2007 Belle Center to present a 60 year pin to Companion David Keller
12/19/2007 Scioto Chapter # 119, Inspection, Kenton, 7th District
12/29/2007 McArthur Chapter # 102 Inspection, McArthur, 13th Dist.
01/05/2008 York Rite Co-Op meeting, Columbus, 11 th District
01/07/2008 Bellefontaine Commandery # 61, Stated, Bellefontaine
01/08/2008 Bellefontaine Lodge # 209, Stated, Bellefontaine
01/10/2008 Apollo Chapter # 2 Stated, Springfield, 6th District
01/11/2008 Crestline Chapter # 88, Inspection, Crestline, 10th District
01/13/2008 Practice MM and Royal Arch opening, Lafayette # 60, Bellefontaine
01/14/2008 Temple Board meeting, Bellefontaine Masonic Center
01/15/2008 Findlay Chapter # 58, Inspection, Findlay, 7th District
01/16/2008 Urbana Chapter # 34, Inspection, Urbana, 6th District
01/18/2008 Marysville, 15th Masonic. Dist. Founders Day Dinner, Guest Speaker
01/19/2008 Van Wert Council # 72, Inspection, Van Wert
01/21/2008 Lafayette # 60/Logan Council # 85 Stated, 4-50 year pins presented/me
01/25/2008 Ladies Toronto Chapter # 221 Inspection, Toronto, 15th District
01/27/2008 Constitution Ceremony Fayette Mark Lodge # 4, Jeffersonville
01/28/2008 Ft. Miami Calumet Chapter # 191 Inspection, Maumee, 8th District
01/30/2008 Hi Point Council AMD, Bellefontaine
02/01/2008 Mt. Olive Chapter, Inspection, Euclid, 16th District
02/02/2008 20th District Grand High Priest Reception, Concord, 20th District
02/03/2008 Lafayette Chapter # 60 Degree Practice, Bellefontaine
02/05/2008 Bellefontaine Lodge # 209 Stated, Bellefontaine
02/06/2008 Bellefontaine OES # 459 Stated, Bellefontaine
02/09/2008 Grand Family Meeting! Lafayette # 60 Inspection, Bellefontaine
02/10/2008 6th Dist. Officers meeting, Urbana
02/14/2008 Memorial Service for Edieann Didham, Bowling Green
02/16/2008 3rd District GHP Reception, Brookville
02/18/2008 Logan Council # 85/Lafayette Chapter # 60 Stated, Bellefontaine
02/19/2008 Bellefontaine Lodge # 209, Stated, Bellefontaine
02/21/2008 Ohio Chapter # 12 Inspection, Bexley, 11th District
02/23/2008 16th District Grand High Priest Reception and "Bottom 5" meeting,
Independence
02/24/2008 NWO YR Festival Committee meeting, Findlay
02/24/2008 George Rosendaul Masonic Funeral Service, Bryan
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 43
02/25/2008 Bellefontaine Commandery # 61 Inspection planning dinner/meeting
02/27/2008 Star Chapter # 126, Inspection, Mechanicsburg, 6th District
02/28/2008 Blackstone YRC, Findlay, Stated Meeting
03/01/2008 Ohio Priory # 18, Quarterly Meeting, Tiffin
03/03/2008 Bellefontaine Commandery # 61 Stated, Bellefontaine
03/06/2008 Unity Chapter # 16 Inspection R.A., Dayton
03/08-09/2008 4th Capitular District Grand High Priest Reception, Sharonville
03/09/2008 Grand Session coordination meeting, Upper Sandusky Circleville
03/10/2008 Chapter # 20 Inspection P.M., Circleville
03/12/2008 Funeral Home visitation for REC Dewey McClure, Springfield
03/12/2008 Springfield Chapter # 48 Inspection MEM, Springfield
03/24/2008 Bellefontaine Commandery # 61, Red Cross and Malta, Bellefontaine
03/25/2008 Bellefontaine Lodge # 209 Inspection, Bellefontaine
03/30/2008 Northwest York Rite Festival Planning meeting, Findlay
03/31/2008 Holiday Inn Miamisburg, Grand Session Planning Meeting
04/01/2008 Bellefontaine Lodge # 209, Stated, Bellefontaine
04/04/2008 15th Masonic District Grand Masters Reception, Marysville
04/05/2008 15th Capitular GHP Reception, Steubenville
04/07/2008 Bellefontaine Commandery # 61, Stated, Bellefontaine
04/11/2008 Clyde Chapter # 90, Inspection, Green Springs
04/12/2008 AASR Valley of Dayton, Spring Reunion, Dayton
04/14/2008 Bellefontaine Masonic Center Board meeting, Bellefontaine
04/19/2008 Bellefontaine Commandery # 61 Inspection, Bellefontaine
04/19/2008 9th District GHP Reception, Norwalk
04/20/2008 6th Dist. Kings School and District Awards, Springfield
04/21/2008 Lafayette # 60/Logan Council # 85, Stated, Bellefontaine
04/22-23/2008 Grand Chapter of Indiana, Indianapolis
04/25/2008 10th District GHP Reception, Smithville
04/26/2008 Re-Dedication Trowel Chapter # 70 / GHP Reception 5th District
05/03/2008 NWO YR Festival, Findlay /11th Dist. GHP Reception, Mt. Vernon
05/0512008 Stated Bellefontaine Commandery # 61, Bellefontaine
05/06/2008 Stated Bellefontaine Lodge # 209, Bellefontaine
05/07/2008 Valley of Dayton, 33rd quarterly meeting, Dayton
05/10/2008 GFM Delaware, Ohio Valley YRC/GHP Reception, Athens
05/12/2008 Special Lafayette # 60/Logan # 85 meetings, Bellefontaine
05/15/2008 Grand Opening Session, Ohio Order of Amaranth, Columbus
05/16/2008 18th District GHP Reception, Massillon
05/17/2008 19th District GHP Reception, Warren
05/19/2008 S.E.M. Degree, Logan Council # 85, Piqua
05/20/2008 Meeting with Gr.Secretary, Barberton; Stated - Bellefontaine # 209
05/21/2008 Bellefontaine OES # 459, Inspection, Bellefontaine
05/21/2008 Blackstone York Rite College, Annual Meeting, Findlay
05/26/2008 Bellefontaine Memorial Day Parade, Bellefontaine Lodge # 209
05/30/2008 Warren Chapter # 6, 14th Dist. GHP Reception, Newark
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter44
05/31/2008 REC George Hall 50 year presentation, Mansfield /17th GHP Reception,
Wadsworth
06/05/2008 Tall Cedar # 188, Stated Meeting, Bellefontaine
06/06-07/2008 111th OCD, Annual meeting, Cincinnati
06/09/2008 Bellefontaine Masonic Center, Temple Board meeting, Bellefontaine
06/14/2008 Ohio Priory Spring Meeting, Bolivar
06/16/2008 Stated, Lafayette Chapter # 60/ Logan Council # 85, Bellefontaine
06/17/2008 Stated, Bellefontaine Lodge # 209, Bellefontaine
06/20/2008 GHP Reception, 2nd Capitular District, Lima
06/21/2008 200th Anniversary Parade, Grand Lodge of Ohio, Columbus
06/21/2008 GHP Reception 1st and 8th District, Browning Masonic Community
06/24/2008 Table Lodge, Bellefontaine # 209, Bellefontaine
06/28/2008 3rd District Chapter Officer Installation, Xenia
07/01/2008 Barberton, Gd. Secretary Bank Vault/ North Baltimore, PMWGM Reynolds
Funeral
07/04/2008 Memorial service for Rufus Putman/Re-Dedication American Union #1,
Marietta
07/10/2008 Ohio Grand Assembly, Rainbow for Girls, Kenyon College, Gambier
07/12/2008 200th Anniversary dinner, Grand Lodge of Ohio, Chillicothe
07/13/2008 Dedication Ada Chapter # 138, Lafayette /7th District GHP Reception,
Findlay
07/14/2008 Temple Board Meeting, Bellefontaine
07/19/2008 DeMolay Annual Convocation, Canton Masonic Temple
07/21/2008 6th District Grand Committee Meeting, Ohio Masonic Home
07/22/2008 Special Bellefontaine # 209, confer 2 Fellow Craft Degrees
07/28/2008 33rd Degree meeting, Valley of Dayton
07/30/2008 Tall Cedar/ AMD annual picnic, Ada
08/02/2008 Reception for C. Michael Watson, Grand Master DeMolay, Newark
08/03/2008 York Rite Devotion and Tea Service, OMH, Springfield
08/05-06/2008 Grand Chapter Michigan, Kalamazoo, MI
08/09/2008 Grand Family meeting, Delaware
08/11/2008 Masters High Twelve Club, Past International Pres. Reception, Lima
08/16/2008 Secretary/Recorders meeting, Delaware
08/16/2008 Masonic night Cincinnati Reds Ball game, Cincinnati
08/18/2008 Annual session planning meeting, Dayton
08/18/2008 Membership awards picnic, Bellefontaine Masonic Center
08/21/2008 Bellefontaine # 209 special, E.A. Degree, Bellefontaine
08/23-27/2008 Supreme Council, Providence RI.
09/02/2008 Bellefontaine # 209, stated, Bellefontaine
09/07/2008 Ohio Masonic Home Day, Springfield
09/08/2008 Ohio Village special Mark Master Degree, Columbus
09/13/2008 High Twelve Annual meeting, Sidney
09/14/2008 Dedication of new apartments, Twin Valley Chapter, Farmersville
09/15/2008 Stated Lafayette Chapter # 60/Logan Council # 85, Bellefontaine
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 45
09/16/2008 Bellefontaine # 209, stated meeting, Bellefontaine
09/19-20/2008 Grand Chapter of Kentucky, Lexington
09/20/2008 Annual Meeting Irish Council Knight Masons, Springfield 09/21/2008
6th District meeting, OMH, Springfield
09/22/2008 33rd dinner meeting, Dayton Masonic Temple
09/26/2008 OES Grand Session, Formal Grand Opening, Dayton
09/28/2008 White Hat Ceremony, Dayton Masonic Temple, Dayton
10/04/2008 Red Cross of Constantine, All-Ohio Assembly, OMH, Springfield
10/05-07/2008 Grand Council, Holiday Inn, Miamisburg
10/07 -09/2008 Grand Chapter, Holiday Inn, Miamisburg
10/09-10/2008 Grand Commandery, Columbus
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TOPICAL REFERENCE
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
Your Committee on Topical Reference to which was referred the address of the Most Excellent
Grand High Priest for division and reference respectfully recommends:
1. That the portion of the report of the Grand High Priest that refers to deceased
Companions be referred to the Necrologist.
2. That those portions of the report which refer to Appointments, Safety Deposit Box ,
Surety Bond, State of the Rite and Visitation be approved.
3. That the portion of the report on the Grand Officers and Deputies be approved.
4. That the portion of the report on Dedications and Re-consecrations be approved.
5. That the portion of the report on Youth Organizations be referred to the Committee on
Youth Organizations.
6. That those portions of the Report on the Ohio Masonic Home, Royal Arch Research and
the Royal Arch Foundation be referred to the Committee on Charity and Benevolence.
7. That the portion of the report on Recommendations be referred to the Committee on
Masonic Jurisprudence.
8. That the portion pertaining to Appreciation and Conclusion be approved.
9. That the portion of the report on Dispensations be referred to the Committee on Masonic
Jurisprudence.
10. That the portion of the report on Proxies be approved.
11. That the portion of the report on Uniform Code of By-Laws and Amendments be
referred to the Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence.
12. That those portions of the report not covered herein be referred to the appropriate
Committees for consideration and action.
Respectfully submitted,
James W. Himmelright G.Prin.Soj,Chm. Ronald Craft,DDGHP 2nd Dist
Charles E.Bonecutter,DDGHP 10th Dist. James C. Eckard, DDGHP 15th Dist
Robert R. Childers,DDGHP 16th Dist. Glenn R. Greenamyer,DDGHP 18th Dist
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter46
COMMENTS FROM M. EXCELLENT COMPANION EMORY J. FERGUSONGeneral Grand High Priest, General Grand Chapter, International
“Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Most Worshipful Grand Master, Distinguished Guests,
Right Excellent Companions and Companions all:
You noticed that the Grand High Priest called on me just before the lunch break to ensure that
I will not take too much of your time. I would like to tell you what an honor and pleasure it is for
me to attend your convocation once more. I have been here before as most of you know. It’s
always a pleasure to come back and see such a wonderful turnout. Unfortunately as I travel
around the country I don't have the benefit of seeing such a large delegation come to the grand
convocations. I commend you here in Ohio.
I've been thinking many times in different aspects of my Masonic associations KYCH,
Sovereign York Rite College, and others, to be able to associate with many of you. I have made
friendships with many of you. It’s a pleasure come back to see many of my long-time friends and
hopefully make some new ones while I'm here. I want to express my appreciation to you for all
the courtesies that have been extended to me and my wife and to those other delegates that
represent their grand chapters here today. As I said, we certainly appreciate everything you've
done, and do for us, while we are here.
I fully realized Ohio is not a member of the General Grand Chapter but it makes it even more
special that you have let me a part of your grand convocation. I thank you so very much for your
invitation to be here and be a part of your session. I would like to speak just a moment about the
Able Kids Foundation and Royal Arch Research Assistance. I know that you've been under a
strong supporter of Royal Arch Research Assistance in the past. When things come close to
home, it means a lot more to you. My grandson was diagnosed with auditory dysfunction and he
went to Ft. Collins and was evaluated by Dr. Joan Burley and he was fitted with the filter. I won't
go into a lot of detail because it would take too much time to explain everything that he went
through but it made a big difference in my grandson. He was a belligerent young man you really
didn't want to be around. Now he is the greatest little kid you'd ever want to see. He is now 15
years old now has completely turned his life around by means of that simple little, tiny filter that
they put in his ear. He went from barely just getting by in making grades and after twelve weeks,
when he got back with the filter, his grades went from being just average in making the honor
roll- in just 12 short weeks. It was through your donations and their research that made a
difference in his life and the life of my family. I would hope that you continue to give to Able
Kids.
.My daughter wrote a synopsis of her feelings called Ellen's story so I would hope that you
would go to Able Kids Foundation website and read what my daughter has to say for she has said
it much better than I ever could. The greatest thing that I can do is to express my thanks to you
for supporting Royal Arch Research Assistance. I do appreciate it so very much.
Again, thank you for the courtesies that you have extended to me in my wife Bobbie.
It's a pleasure to be back with you.
Most Excellent Companion Ferguson’s comments were received with a hearty round of
applause.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 47
REPORT OF ELECTION
Most Excellent Companion James M. McDonald, Past Grand High Priest, reported that the
balloting has resulted in the election of the following Grand Officers:
Rt. Ex. Comp. Robert C. Draye Grand High Priest
Rt. Ex. Comp. Donald L. Losasso Grand King
Rt. Ex. Comp. Steven J. Oliver Grand Scribe
M. Ex. Comp. Charles McCarty Grand Treasurer
M. Ex. Comp. Dale G. Ray, Jr. . Grand Secretary
Rt. Ex. Comp. James W. Himmelright Grand Captain of the Host
Rt. Ex. Comp. George M. Shell Grand Principal Sojourner
Rt. Ex. Comp. Robert W. Thomas Grand Royal Arch Captain
Rt. Ex. Comp. Donald W. Owens Grand Master of the Third Veil
Rt. Ex. Comp. Robert D. Blankenhorn Grand Master of the Second Veil
Rt. Ex. Comp. R. Keith O’Dell Grand Master of the First Veil
ACCEPTANCE OF ELECTION – ROBERT J. DRAYE
Rt. Excellent Companion Robert J. Draye accepted his election to the position of Grand High
Priest with the following remarks:
“Companions, most of you know that I’m not going to be long winded. All I can say is my
journey in Capitular Masonry started about twenty years ago. I thought ‘I need to know a little
more about what I learned in Lodge’ and what an exciting trip that has been. Eight years ago there
was an election and I was introduced as ‘Big Bob’ but I wasn’t asked to stand and they almost put
‘Little Bob’ into the line, who at the time was the Grand Guard. Somehow it got back to me and
I’ve had the honor and pleasure to serve you in this great grand line for the past eight years.
I am absolutely honored and humbled by the fact that you have put your trust in me and I will
do my very best to continue with the tradition of this Grand Chapter and those who have preceded
me.
Most Excellent, yes, I do accept.”
The remaining Grand Officers were then polled by Grand High Priest Pugh. Each acceptedthe station to which they were elected.
PRESENTATION BY THE 16TH DISTRICT
A delegation of Companions from the 16th Capitular District, led by District President David
Weimer, asked permission to approach. They met Right Excellent Companion Draye, Grand High
Priest (elect) west of the Altar where they presented him with a generous financial gift to assist
him with his travels and pledged their support during his term of office.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter48
Rt. Ex. Companion Draye announced his appointments for the following year:
R.E.C. Raymond Sharritts, Grand Chaplain & Necrologist
R.E.C. Jeffrey L. Addis, Grand Guard
R.E.C. Joseph J. Orosz, Grand Marshal
R.E.C. Norman G. Lincoln, Grand Historian
R.E.C. Glen L. Opp, Grand Fraternal Correspondent
E.C. Don R. Lutz, Grand Musician
R.E.C. Robert L. Jordon, Grand Musician, Emeritus
Right Excellent Companion Draye announced the installation of Grand Officers would take
place on Thursday morning at 10:00 A.M. with the ladies present.
COMMENTS FROM ILLUSTRIOUS BROTHER NEIL M. SMALLEY
Deputy for Ohio, Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite
“Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Most Worshipful Grand Master, Grand Chapter Officers,
Distinguished Guest and Companions
It’s quite comforting to know that I and the Grand Master are about the only things that stand
between you and lunch at this time.
Most Excellent Companion Pugh has challenged us to ‘Chart a Course for the Future.’ Most of
us wish we had a crystal ball that would help us divine the future. We know in our hearts that
such magic cannot help us. We are the instruments of the future and we have no choice but to
shoulder the responsibility and get to work. It is appropriate as Royal Arch Companions that we
are the architects of that future. So what are we to draw up on our trestle boards? Let me first
say, just as minds greater than mine pointed out long ago, that we can learn from the past but
cannot merely construct the future out of old material or be prisoners of the past. Consider for
example what our automobiles would be like if the builders just kept repeating the Model T.
design. So what can we imagine for masonry in the years ahead? Certainly not a model T, I
hope, but growth in membership, spirit, good works - all in step with current events and modern
lifestyles. Moreover, our leadership should avoid any dictatorship from the top. A healthy future
for our fraternity means building from the bottom up. Our Companions and our perspective
Companions can share their vision of the organization’s shape and activities. So, we have to ask;
we have to probe; we have to listen; and then give the materials to work with. It is our job to turn
the visions into reality. The future, as a French philosopher once said, ‘is made of the same stuff as
the present,’ yet we must see that this same stuff solves new problems, creates new opportunities,
and meets tomorrow's needs. We simply don't want to reinvent the model T.
Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Willa Jean and I thank you for the courtesies and hospitality
we have enjoyed in your company and we wish for you a most successful annual communication.
Companion Smalley’s comments were received with a very warm round of applause.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 49
FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT
Right Excellent Companion Norman J. Lobell, Past District Deputy Grand High Priest and
Chairman of the Finance committee presented the report of the Finance Committee. He reported
that significant reductions in expenditures to budget resulting considerable savings to the Grand
Chapter. He commented that few Deputies submitted expense reports, thus providing additional
savings. He thanked them and the office of the Grand Secretary for contributing to the financial
well being of the Grand Chapter. The following budget was proposed for 2008 – 2009:
BUDGET FOR 2008-2009
BUDGET INFORMATION OF THE GRAND CHAPTER
IS NOT INCLUDED FOR PUBLICATION ON THIS WEBSITE.
SHOULD YOU WISH INFORMATION CONCERNING THE
2006 – 2007 BUDGET, PLEASE CONTACT THE CHAIRMAN OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE, THE GRAND TREASURER OR GRAND
SECRETARY AS LISTED IN THESE PROCEEDINGS
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter50
THIS PAGE HAS BEEN LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 51
GRAND TREASURER’S REPORT
THE REPORT OF THE GRAND TREASURER
IS NOT INCLUDED FOR PUBLICATION ON THIS WEBSITE.
SHOULD YOU WISH INFORMATION CONCERNING THE
THIS REPORT, PLEASE CONTACT THE CHAIRMAN OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE, THE GRAND TREASURER OR GRAND
SECRETARY AS LISTED IN THESE PROCEEDINGS
REMARKS FROM MOST WORSHIPFUL BROTHER RONALD L. WINNETTGrand Master of Masons in Ohio
“Most Excellent Companion Pugh, first let me say it was an honor for me to be with you and
Bobby in Providence where we received our 33rd degrees together. Now, Companions, you
want the long version or the short version? We’ll do the short version how’s that?
I am happy to report that this year we have celebrated our 200th anniversary and things, so far,
have gone very well. I hope that each of you had an opportunity to be at one of the events that
was held.
Companions it is a personal desire of mine to see Freemasonry in Ohio flourish and prosper.
You know we are very aware that membership in our fraternity, for the last number of years, has
been a decline. Many initiatives have been taken to stop the decline. We have had movie ads put
in movie theaters; shortened the proficiencies at one-day classes; lowered the minimum age for a
petition for membership. Some Grand Lodges have hired PR firms and paid significant sums of
money for promotions and in some of those cases there have been successes. But these initiatives
still failed to arrest our declining numbers and did nothing to achieve a fraternal spirit, and most
importantly did nothing to address the needs of our lodges to keep their new and existing members
enthused about Freemasonry.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter52
Our one-day classes have attracted over 17,000 members to our lodges. This has done very
little to halt the ever increasing number of deaths, demits, and nonpayment of dues. I believe that
most efficient solution that will have positive and lasting change for our future is before me today.
It is within the grasp and reach of each of us, as we work together, to redefine who we are as a
fraternity, in a way that will ensure our growth and prosperity for many years to come. So, I ask
you now, as Brother Masons, to heed the call and make it your personal initiative to participate in
rebuilding our destiny - Brother
by Brother and Lodge by Lodge. Companions, if we continue to work together as we have this
past year, there is nothing we cannot accomplish.
May God bless Freemasonry and may God bless America.
Most Worshipful Brother Winnents remarks were received with a standing round of applause.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Grand High Priest Pugh announced the school for Kings, Scribes and Companions would be
held at 2:00PM under the direction of Grand King Robert J. Draye and Grand Scribe Donald
Losasso. He further announced that the Order of High Priesthood would be conferred beginning at
2:00P.M. at Far Hills Masonic Lodge. All current and Past High Priests, not yet members, were
encouraged to submit a petition and receive this most impressive work. Our out-of-state visitors
were invited to attend.
The Grand Secretary announced the names of the several Chapters that had not yet registered
and suggested that the deputies contact a representative of the Chapter to ensure their attendance
on Thursday.
Recess at the Close of the First Day
Most Excellent Companion Pugh called the Grand Chapter from Labor to Refreshment until
8:30A.M. on Thursday, October 5, 2006.
Benediction by Rt. Ex. Companion Raymond Sharritts
“Companions, let us pray. May the grace of God: Which is deeper than our imagination; the
strength of Christ: Which is stronger than our need; and the blessing of God’s Spirit: Which is
richer than our togetherness, guide and sustain you.
Gather for the refreshment of your body, mind, and spirit.
Amen.”
GRAND CHAPTER BANQUET
Approximately 392 Royal Arch Masons and their ladies attended the Annual Banquet on
Wednesday evening. Among those attending were Miss Lauryn Bauschhaus, Grand Worthy
Advisor of Rainbow in Ohio, accompanied by her mother Lynn; Miss Holly
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 53
Emge, Miss Ohio Job's Daughter and Miss Kristen K. Davis, Grand Bethel Honored Queen, Job's
Daughters of Ohio; Mrs. Carol McNulty, Grand Guardian; Mr. James
Weed, Associate Grand Guardian; James Johnson, State Master Councilor of Ohio DeMolay; H.
Jeffery Shaw, Executive Officer of DeMolay in Ohio; Catherine F. Jones, Worthy Grand Matron
of OES of Ohio and her husband Ron; Richard D. Barrick, Worthy Grand Patron of OES of Ohio;
Merlyn E. Meredith Grand Recorder of the Grand Council, R&SM of Ohio and his wife Jane; and
Bruce D. Basil, Grand Recorder of the Grand Commandery of Ohio and his wife Sharon..
THE EARL C. GIFFORD DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
The Earl C. Gifford Distinguished Service Award of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of
Ohio was granted to:
Ross R. Black, II, born June 7, 1948, in Cleveland, Ohio, is a family physician. Ross is a Past
Master of Mt. Akra Lodge No. 680 (two terms), Past High Priest of Cuyahoga Falls Chapter No.
225, presently serving as president of the 17th district, current Illustrious Master of Cuyahoga
Falls Council No. 144, and Generalissimo of Cuyahoga Falls Commandery No. 83. He is also a
member of St. Benedict Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine; and is a plural member of the
valleys of Akron and Cleveland, AASR where he serves on many committees and is on the board
of governors for the Learning Center in the Valley of Akron.
Ross is chairman of the Grand Council Benevolent Resources Committee. He received the
DeMolay Honorary Legion of Honor. He is the Grand Council’s representative on the Board of
Trustees of the Ohio Masonic Home.
Ross is very active in the medical community. He served as president of the Ohio Academy of
Family Physicians and has served on many other medical boards. He was named the Ohio Family
Physician of the year in 1998. He is also very active in his church.
His Chapter recommended him for his sincere and genuine service to the fraternity and
humanity.
Jonny L. Dicke, born November 30, 1942, in Celina, Ohio, is self-employed in the Agri-
Business. Jonny is a Past Master of Mercer Lodge No. 121 (two terms), Past High Priest of St.
Mary's Chapter No. 51 and has been Chapter secretary since 1989, Past Illustrious Master of St.
Mary's Council No. 81, and Past Commander of Sidney Commandery No. 46. He is a Knight of
the York Cross of Honor. He also belongs to the Tall Cedars of Lebanon, the Knight Masons, and
the Valley of Dayton, AASR. In addition to his duties as secretary, is involved with the degrees in
all bodies.
Jonny’s community involvement has been outstanding. He supported the Young Farmers,
serving as state secretary for two years and helped organize the Marion local chapter. He served
20 years on the Mercer County zoning commission and is current appeals board president. He
served in many roles in Mercer County Farm Bureau and on the Jefferson Township trustees. He
was chairman of the Mercer County Soil and Water Conservation District. He presently serves on
the Resource Conservation and Development Council representing Mercer County on a nine-
county board.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter54
Jonny is a member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church and volunteers in many ways in the
church.
He was nominated for his love of the craft and for his extensive community involvement.
Curtis M. Jackson, born April 20, 1933, in New York, New York, is a retired research
manager in metallurgy for Batelle Memorial Institute. He was raised in Otesagta Lodge No. 1050
in New York and is a member of Community Lodge No. 684, serving as educational officer since
2004, Past High Priest of Community Chapter No. 227 (two terms), serving as District Deputy
Grand High Priest, a member of Columbus Council No. 8, participating in all 3 degrees for 25
years, and a member of Mt. Vernon Commandery No. 1. He belongs to the Valley of Columbus,
AASR.
Curtis is also a member of numerous other Masonic bodies and the recipient of many awards
in those bodies. He gave very significant service to Ohio Lodge of Research and the Ohio Chapter
of Research. He is a past presiding officer each of these bodies and has written award winning
papers for each.
Curtis has a very impressive professional record as a metallurgical researcher. He contributed
to the development of the wire used in countless orthodontic braces and to the development of the
metal used in turbine engines for airplanes.
He was nominated by his Chapter for being a genuine and caring Companion in his everyday
service to his fellow men and Masonry.
Robert R. Neff, born May 4, 1933, in Crooksville, Ohio, is retired from the state of Ohio
Health Departmental. He is a Past Master of Luther P. Turner Lodge No. 732 (four times), Past
High Priest of York Temple Chapter No. 155, Past Illustrious Master of York Council No. 115 and
Past Commander of Columbus Commandery No. 69. He received his KYCH in 1989 in Ohio
Priory No. 18. He served as secretary/recorder of the three York Rite bodies from 1972 to 2008.
He is also a member of the Valley of Columbus, AASR, and a past presiding officer in many other
affiliated Masonic organizations. He has been an outstanding worker for all his Masonic bodies.
A member of the Glenwood Methodist Church, he serves as a member of the administrative
board. His service to the Order of Job's Daughters has reached many levels. He was Associate
Bethel Guardian from 1980 to 1985, Associate Grand Guardian of Ohio in 1986 and Associates
Supreme Guardian in 1991.
His nominators pointed out that his service as secretary/recorder was truly remarkable and he
achieved international honors in the International Order of Job's Daughters.
TH URSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2008
The Grand Chapter was called from Recess to Labor by Grand High Priest Garis Pugh at
8:30A.M. at the Miamisburg Holiday Inn.
Invocation by Rt. Excellent Companion Raymond Sharritts
“Companions, let us pray. Another day begins, Lord. Another journey – dawn to dusk - in the
voyage of discovery we call life. As we set out, we pause to ask your blessing, your guidance
along the way. Grant us this morning, the smile of a song upon
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 55
our lips; the lilt of lively companionship along the road; the wisdom to see the way ahead and
to hold the course; the strength and courage to overcome all obstacles; and the openness to share.
Do not let us stray from our course to wander in circling paths of selfishness. And as we reach
journey’s end, grant us sage lodging; friends to greet us; and a place to rest and be with our
Companions again.
Amen”
GRAND SECRETARY'S REPORT
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
Working in the Grand Secretary’s Office is still a challenge. Our schedule continues to be
seven days a week and eight to ten hours a day, during seven months of the year and more normal
during the other five.
Some tasks are becoming more organized and Most Excellent Companion Wayne S. Dill has
volunteered to help produce the back-due Annual Proceedings that have been temporarily set aside
while we learn this job. We are confident that his assistance will make a significant dent in this
project. The work is still enjoyable and keeps us young (we think).
Annual Returns
We again printed all Annual Returns in the office, once the information wasreceived from the constituent chapter secretaries. This year ten Chapters were fined forlate returns or late payment of fees. The Committee on Constituent Returns levied thefines. As badly as the Grand Chapter needs funds, we do not want to get it this way. Itmakes us very sad to collect these fines and we encourage the Secretaries to get theirreturns in early next year.
Dues Cards
Dues cards were again printed in the Grand Secretary's office. Constituent Chapter Secretaries
must give us accurate names, etc. to put on the cards. We again added "Past High Priest" on the
dues cards of our Past High Priests.
Membership
2007 2008
152 Chapters reporting
Membership at beginning of year ................... 19,509 18,875
Exalted............................................................ 570 430
Admitted......................................................... 46 45
Reinstated ...................................................... 53 62
Withdrawn...................................................... 164 177
Died ................................................................ 651 732
Suspended or Expelled .................................. 488 592
Membership at end of year ............................. 18,875 17,911
NET LOSS ............................................... 634 964
(by percent) ................................................. 3.25% 5.11%
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter56
Chapters showing gain 20
Chapters showing loss 120
Chapters showing no change 13
Chapters having no exaltations 33
Chapters having no reinstatements 124
Chapters having no suspensions 53
Exalted most candidates: York-Temple #155 14
Norwood #193 14
Middletown #87 13
American Union #1 11
Showing largest numerical gain: Norwood #193 8
Ohio #12 6
Showing 10.0% or more net gain: None
Suspended 20 or more members: York-Temple #155 31
Hiram #18 22
Hamilton #21 22
Willis #131 21
Showing greatest loss: York-Temple #155 45
West Gate #216 34
Shawnee #237 34
Showing greatest % loss: Trowel #70 25.806%
Willis #131 23.077%
Hiram #18 20.769%
District with Gain Dist. #20 1
District with greatest loss: Dist. #11 -145
District with Gain %: Dist. #20 0.24%
District with greatest % loss: Dist. #18 -8.01%
Receipts, General Fund and Permanent Fund
Interest, Permanent Fund $19,506.74
Interest, Certificates of Deposit 1,019.93
Interest, Savings Accounts and NOW Account 2,514.28
Total Investment Income $23,040.95
Grand Dues & Fines from Constituent Chapters $91,894.00
Supplies 402.20
Ritual Sales 370.00
Sale of Codes 509.00
Sale of Histories & Tapes 99.00
Management of Endowment Membership 496.00
Total Income $116,811.15
Note: This is a decrease of $5,229.35 from 2006-2007. This is largely the result of more
than $3,000.00 loss in interest income due to less favorable rates and $1,000.00
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 57
resulting from the loss in membership. However, by keeping expenses under tight control and
due to our per capita increase of four years ago, this is the fourth year in a row that the Grand
Chapter ended the year with a net gain rather than a net loss. We continue to regain the losses of
the previous years.
Ohio Masonic Home
Your Grand Chapter contributed twenty-five cents per member to the operating funds of our
Ohio Masonic Home as specified by our Code, amounting to $4,718.75. In addition, as in each of
the last 28 years, your Grand Chapter donated $1500.00 over and above its legal requirement to
the operating funds of the Home. Your Grand Chapter continues to strongly endorse and support
our Masonic Home, encouraging our individual members to do the same.
Royal Arch Research Assistance
Contributions to Royal Arch Research Assistance in Ohio from Aug. 1, 2007 through July
31, 2008 totaled $7,280.63. Money forwarded since that time will be reported next year. Total
money contributed from Ohio since the inception of the philanthropy according to our figures is
$476,787.39. We are pleased to note that 18 Chapters earned 100% Certificates by contributing at
least $1.00 per member during the year, and we warmly congratulate these Chapters. They are
listed in the report of the RARA Chairman.
We strongly urge continued support to this very worthwhile endeavor, and ask that chapters
continue to send their contributions through the Grand Secretary's office (checks made out to
Royal Arch Research Assistance) so that we can assist in seeing proper credit is given to our
Chapters and Companions for their efforts.
Audit
The report of the review of our financial records by Tenney, Bailey & Associates, Certified
Public Accountants, of Marietta, Ohio is at the desk of the Grand Secretary for viewing by anyone
who may wish to examine it in detail. This review includes the records of both the Grand
Treasurer and the Grand Secretary for the year 2007-2008.
50, 60 and 65 Year Pins
Ninety-eight 50-year pins were reported presented during the 2007-2008 year. As of Sept. 1
another 334 pins have been sent out over the last 2-3 years for which no report of presentation has
been received. 399 other Companions are shown by our records to now be eligible, including the
ones during the 2008-2009 year. We urge our Secretaries and our District Deputies to follow up on
this and try to get these awards to the Companions deserving them.
Thirty-eight 60-year pins were reported presented during the year. As of Sept. 1 another
seventy are out, not yet reported. 195 more companions are eligible for their pins.
Three 65-year pins were reported presented during the year. As of Sept. 1 another eighteen
are out, not yet reported. Forty-seven more companions are eligible.
This year there are seven companions eligible for the 70-year plaque. Two were presented
last year.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter58
The procedure for requesting presentation of any of these pins is as follows: The local
Secretary must initiate the request, since he has the best chance of knowing the location and status
of the Companion. Just a note or call to the Grand Secretary's office giving us the name and
location of the Companion is all that is needed. If our records confirm his eligibility, and he lives
in the local area of his Chapter, we send the pin promptly to the District Deputy, along with the
report sheet to be completed and returned to the Grand Secretary's office. A presentation card
signed by the Grand High Priest accompanies the pins.
If the Companion lives out of the state or area, and assistance is needed in arranging a
presentation, we must have the Companion's address so that we can send it to him or make
arrangements with Royal Arch Masons in that area. Up-to-date address is very important.
Available from Grand Secretary's Office
The following materials are available for the use of our constituent chapters:
1. Chapter Management Manuals, 1998 version. Every Chapter should have at least three
copies. Price is $8.00 each.
2. The excellent promotional film Saga of the Holy Royal Arch. This is available at no cost
other than return postage. Advance reservations are needed. The film is now also available
in video, and the videos can be purchased for $15.00 each including shipping from the
General Grand Secretary's office, PO Box 489, Danville, KY 40423-0489. The phone is
606-236-0757.
3. An Unheard Cry is a new video about R.A.R.A., also available from the General Grand
Secretary's office for $23.00 each including shipping. They also still have The Lonely World,
in both 16 mm film and video, explaining the research work of Royal Arch Research
Assistance.
4. Musical tapes for use with the Most Excellent Master Degree, produced by Apollo Dramatic
Chapter. These can be borrowed for a $10.00 deposit (and you are permitted to make your
own copy), or purchased for $10.00.
5. Manual of Suggestions for Chapter Officers, 1984 edition. Every Chapter officer should
have one. Price is $1.00 each.
6. Codes. Up-to-date copies of our Grand Chapter Code are available at $10.50 each, cover
included; or for $7.00 each for contents only. Postage is extra.
7. Many educational pamphlets. See the Price List your Secretary has.
8. The excellent 2-volume Selby-Walker history of the first 150 years of our Grand Chapter.
9. Back issues of Proceedings of the Ohio Chapter of Research (containing Masonic papers
and articles).
10. Various forms for chapter use.
11. York Rite materials, including petitions for degrees (every Chapter should be using these),
promotional leaflets, The York Rite of Freemasonry by Speidel, York Rite passports.
Price lists have again been sent to all Chapter Secretaries.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 59
Appreciation
Thanks again to the secretaries of the Chapters of this state for the many hours of dedicated
effort they spend in maintaining the records and operating the monetary and membership business
of their chapters. For most there is little "pay" except for the knowledge that they are doing
something worthwhile that needs doing. We appreciate their cooperation with our office. Thanks
also to Jacqueline for her devotion to our order and the effort “above and beyond” the call of duty.
Fraternally submitted,
Dale G. Ray, Jr., Grand Secretary
LEGISLATION
Companion Michael Spizak, Chairman of Jurisprudence, was called upon to explain a
proposed amendment to section 128.01 of the Grand Chapter Code pertaining to Grievance, Trial
Procedure and Practice. Basically a “housekeeping issue,” it was found that this section of the
code was not consistent with Ohio Grand Lodge Code with a Chapter trial only appropriate if
there are no charges filed in a Lodge. The use of Grand Lodge Code, where applicable, with the
substitution of Capitular terms was then clarified.
Right Excellent Companion Robert Draye, Grand King, announced that the proposed change to
the code had not been submitted in the required time - 90 days prior to Grand Chapter. He made a
motion, requiring the unanimous consent of the delegates, to give immediate consideration to the
amendment at this Grand Convocation. The motion was supported and approved by the voting
delegates.
The proposed change, having been found to be in proper form by the Jurisprudence Committee,
Right Excellent Companion Draye then moved for the acceptance of the amendment to section
128.01. The motion was seconded and approved by the delegates.
RESOLUTION – CONSOLIDATED LIABILITY AND PROPERTY INSURANCE
Companion Ed Strauss, a licensed insurance broker, was called upon to present the
background information concerning a proposed resolution for a consolidated liability and
property insurance program for the constituent Chapters.
“Most Excellent Companion, Grand Officers, Companions and Brethren all. A bit about Ed
Strauss. I became a Master Mason in 1968 and have done a couple of things in the Masonic
world of and also has been in the insurance business that long and has been privileged, historically
in the past, to handle the insurance program for the Grand Lodge of Ohio and presently is
handling the insurance program for the Grand Commandery.
I think you all know in your hearts that everybody; every organization should have insurance
coverage. To not have it is a very dangerous thing. I first want to explain what this program is
not. I can assure you and guarantee you that the insurance plan through the Grand Lodge of Ohio
only covers the Grand Lodge of Ohio and all
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter60
subordinate blue lodges. It does nothing in regards to other Masonic organizations, absolutely
nothing. It also does not cover the ownership and operation of a Masonic temple, building
company, whatever you want to call it. Every individual Masonic building organization needs to
have their own separate insurance coverage. . This is also true for any Chapter that might have
ownership interests in regards to the ownership and operation of a Masonic temple company.
What we are proposing is such a good thing and so cost-effective for everybody - the actual
cost will trickle down to about $100 a chapter. In today's insurance world, I see it every day,
where any insurance company can issue a piece of paper. There are more and more minimum
premium requirements. Many companies, for quite a while now, have had a $250 minimum
premium and some have even gone to a $500 minimum. Quite a difference cost wise so when I
say cost-effective for you, it truly is. You get buying power as a group versus going and buying it
on your own.
I also think is a misnomer if you don't own the building but the building has insurance and it's
going to cover the Chapter. More often than not, it is not the case. If you're an owner, hopefully,
your name is on there and it will protect you for the ownership interest you have in the building. .
But it's not going to cover you as an organization and individual Chapter in regards to your
activities and more often than not, there is not enough coverage to take care of your paraphernalia
and property. So keep in mind this is not for the ownership and operation of a temple company but
it's for the operation and all activities.
It starts with basic general liability coverage which is a million-dollar occurrence limit and a $2
million liability protection in regards to bodily injury and property damage to other people. It
covers your operation in a Chapter - all of your activities such as dinners, fund raisers, county
fairs. - whatever you're doing, where ever you’re going. It's there to protect the Chapter. It also
protects the individual member for there is a section in regards to my own auto liability. I think I
can safely say that no Chapters own vehicles. Every day of the week many of you are out running
around in the countryside in regards to the activities in regards to Royal Arch Masonry. Today in
this world, when attorneys find things out, they tend to put everybody and their brother names
onto a lawsuit. So it is quite feasible that a Chapter to get a lawsuit in regards to an auto accident.
This would also defend and protect you in regards to that sort of thing. Then comes the question
- how much coverage is enough? I don't have a crystal ball any more than you do. In today's
world, and when you're talking about bodily injury, the cost of medical expense is skyrocketing -
going higher and higher. So to be safe and more cautious there is what we have called the excess
liability or an umbrella policy. That goes on top of the underlying limits I've already mentioned
to you. That also is a million dollars so in an individual occurrence, you would be protected
technically up to $2 million limit and in regards to a general aggregate of liability - $3 million
total.
What about your property? What about your paraphernalia? This package has is a $30,000
limit per Chapter in regards to your paraphernalia. It is written, on what we in the industry call an
‘inland marine form’ which is much broader than your main peril coverage, such as fire, theft,
windstorm, all those things. It is basically all risk, unless excluded. There are exclusions but very
limited. Your property would be covered
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 61
where ever you are. Basically anything that would happen to it and believe me, I have seen losses
where temple companies have burnt down to the ground and lost everything. So it would give each
chapter a $30,000 limit and there would be a $500 deductible. So, together that is the proposed
package in regards to the Grand Chapter……… “
Companion Strauss then fielded numerous questions from the delegates on the proposed
insurance policy and its implementation. The questions having been answered, the following
resolution was then presented:
Be it resolved, that each Constituent Chapter shall participate in, and pay premiums for, the
Grand Chapter Commercial General Liability, Property and Umbrella Insurance Policy
provided by United Agencies. At the time of the passage of this resolution the annual
premium for each Chapter shall be One-Hundred dollars ($100.00) per year and the
property portion coverage limits shall be Thirty Thousand dollars ($30,000.00).
A motion was made and seconded to adopt the resolution. The resolution passed by a majority
vote of the delegates. It was announced that the Chapter’s coverage would become effective
January 1, 2009 and the Chapters would receive statements from the Grand Secretary.
REPORT OF THE AWARDS COMMITTEE
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
Your awards committee met in Bellefontaine, Ohio to perform its duties for the year. This
committee was charged with two responsibilities by our Grand High Priest. The first was to
review the names submitted in consideration for the Grand High Priest’s Award. After checking
the forms sent to us for completion of the required items, these names were forwarded to the
Grand High Priest.
Our second duty was to review the nomination forms for the Earl C. Gifford Distinguished
Service Award, and make a recommendation to the Grand High Priest. After reviewing all
nominations received, this committee made its recommendations to the Grand High Priest, who
has the final say on the recipients. To those who are selected, we say congratulations. To those
who submitted nominations and their candidate did not win this year, please review your
nomination, add any new facts that may help, and re-submit the nomination. This committee
feels that all candidates this year were qualified, and our task to narrow the list down was not an
easy decision.
Also included in this report is a list of the various Chapters and Companions who won awards
within each District, as selected by the DDGHP of each District. To these Companions and
Chapters we say “Congratulations and keep up the good work”. These selections are not always
easy, and to the DDGHP’s we say “Thank you for your efforts on behalf of this Grand Chapter”.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter62
To our Grand High Priest, Most Excellent Companion Garis E. Pugh, we say “Thank you”
for allowing us to serve this Grand Chapter this year, and we would hope that you would not
hesitate to call on us in the future if we can be of further service.
The following awards were presented for the 2007-2008 Capitular Year.
GRAND CHAPTER AWARDS
District Outstanding Chapter Most Improved Chapter
1 Northwest #45 EnSaWocSa #89
2 Spencerville #169 Sidney #130
3 Twin Valley #240 Franklin #24
4 Norwood #193 Willis #131
5 Circleville #20 Chillicothe #4
6 New Carlisle #57 Lafayette #60
7 McCutchen #96 Marion #62
8 Oak Harbor #162 Toledo-Port Lawrence #161
9 Clyde #90 None awarded
10 Shelby #178 Ashland #67
11 York-Temple #155 Ohio #12
13 McArthur #102 Rufus Putnam #180
14 NO REPORTRECEIVED NO REPORT RECEIVED
15 Toronto #221 Cadiz #173
16 Chagrin Falls #152 Summit Baker #74
17 Medina County #243 Portage #202
18 Tuscarawas #38 Hiram #18
19 Mahoning #10 Ashlar #213
20 NO REPORTRECEIVED NO REPORT RECEIVED
District Outstanding High Priest Sojourners Award
1 Charles H. Kamp-Haley #136 Lee E. Kallsen-Hicksville #188
2 William Garrett-St. Marys #51 Joe Diamond-St. Marys #51
3 Sam Anderson-Unity #16 Trinity #44
4 Ronald C. Hart-Willis #131 Milford Chapter #35
5 Shawn Barr-Trowel #70 Hillsboro #40
6 William J. Instine-Star #126 None awarded
7 Thomas Zeigler-McCutchen #96 McCutchen #96
8 None awarded Fort Meigs #29
9 Samuel Wiley-Bellevue #113 John Hooper-Oberlin #219
10 Charles Rhodes- King Cyrus #207 Harry McClarran-Wooster #27
11 Max Bauman-Horeb #3 Rober W. Bair-York-Temple #155
13 Roger L. Griffin-Pomeroy #80 None awarded
14 NO REPORT RECEIVED NO REPORT RECEIVED
15 Michael T. Wood-Union #15 Toronto #221
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 63
16 DonaldVanHorn,Jr.-Mt.Olive #189 Jeffrey Stanczyk-Chagrin Falls #152
17 R. EdwardTrego-Silvercreek #144 Silvercreek #144
18 Steve Nevel-Hiram #18 None awarded
19 Raymond F. Bishop-Niles #223 Michael Waldern-Niles #223
20 NO REPORT RECEIVED NO REPORT RECEIVED
District District Workhorse
1 Christian King-Wauseon #111
2 Curtis Copeland-Wapakoneta #183
3 Joseph Fair-Palmyra #235
4 Jeffrey A. Hardin-Milford #35
5 Les Bower-Hillsboro #40
6 Donald Rutledge New Carlisle #57
7 Leo E. Garey-Findlay #58
8 Wayne S. Dill-Oak Harbor #162
9 Edward Obrien-Wakeman #177
10 David R. Rhine-Ashland #67
11 Donald . Lynne-York-Temple #155
13 William Conrad-Athens #39
14 NO REPORT RECEIVED
15 Jean L. Davis-Bellaire #107
16 David Weimer-Heights #206
17 Rory G. Wolff-Tyrian #91
18 William . McGuire-Tuscarawas #38
19 Donald R. Mackey-Niles #223
20 NO REPORT RECEIVED
Respectfully submitted,
David L. Vassar, Grand Marshal, Chairman Herbert L. Clonch, Grand Guard
J. Erick Bails, DDGHP 6th District H. Jeffery Shaw, DDGHP 3rd District
John R. Hartsock, PDDGHP 6th District
The following awards will be presented at Grand Chapter to various Chapters and individuals
for outstanding accomplishments this past year. Star Awards are given to chapters that had 3% or
more net gain. The York Rite Plaque Award is given to individuals that were the top line signer
on at least five petitions, during the past year, for all three York Rite Bodies. Awards of
Distinction will be presented to chapters that had a net gain or net breakeven this year.
The following individuals and chapters qualified for these awards this year:
STAR AWARDS (for 3% or more net gain)
Chapter Gain %
Haly #136 2 6.45%
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter64
Ohio #12 6 5.13%
Willoughby #231 3 4.48%
Milford #35 4 4.40%
Silver Creek #144 3 4.29%
Marysville #99 2 3.70%
Eaton #22 4 3.57%
Star #126 2 3.33%
Fayette Mark Lodge #4 10 31.25%
YORK RITE PLAQUE AWARD
Companion Rodney L. Carr Logan #75
AWARDS OF DISTINCTION
Chapter Members Gain Years District
Ohio #12 123 6 2 11
Eaton #22 116 4 1 3
Milford #35 95 4 1 4
Painesville #46 109 3 1 20
Silver Creek #144 73 3 2 17
Willoughby #231 70 3 2 20
Marysville #99 56 2 1 6
Star #126 62 2 3 6
Haly #136 33 2 2 1
Galion #142 74 2 1 10
Wakeman #177 81 2 1 9
Cincinnati #4 100 1 1 4
Mahoning #10 156 1 2 19
Greenville #77 86 1 2 3
New London #92 67 1 1 19
McCutchen #96 115 1 1 7
Geneva #147 53 1 1 20
Heights #206 86 1 3 16
King Cyrus #207 61 1 1 10
Marshall #47 58 0 2 9
Adoniram #73 103 0 1 6
Conneaut #76 41 0 1 20
Millersburg #86 40 0 1 18
Salem #94 80 0 1 19
Bellaire #107 128 0 3 15
Nugen #124 61 0 1 14
Ada #138 62 0 1 7
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 65
Morrow #143 63 0 4 4
Carey #159 55 0 1 7
Oak Harbor #162 187 0 2 8
Kent #192 113 0 2 17
West Park #214 91 0 1 16
Mark Lodges
Fayette County #4 42 10 2 5
Dwight Warehime #3 80 0 2 14
REPORT OF THE EDUCATION COMMITTEE
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
Your committee on Masonic Education is pleased to submit the following report for the
Capitular year 2007 -2008
COMMITTEE MEETINGS
This committee met one time during the year and engaged in numerous telephone
conversations and online discussions. The primary focus of these encounters was on maintaining,
improving and updating what is now in place with an emphasis on prioritzing desired changes.
Committee meetings this past year included:
November 10, 2007 - Ohio Masonic Home, Springfield, Ohio. The 15th Annual District
Education Officers School of Instruction was held with 21 of the 25 D.E.O.’s in attendance. The
usual mileage allocation was allowed by the Grand High Priest, Garis E. Pugh. Attendance
overall was very good with an additional number of District Deputies, Grand Officers and
interested Companions joining in the session. This school is held to instruct the District Education
Officers on their duties; to provide them the necessary tools to be successful; and to review the
policies and programs of the Grand Chapter’s Education Committee. The committee is blessed to
have retained the services of M.E.C. Wayne S. Dill as a member. He brings a great deal of
experience and expertise to all this committee does.
The presenters at the school included: Right Excellent Companions Henry Dodson, Norman G.
Lincoln, Donald E. Wilcox, Randal E. Davis, Jeffrey L. Addis, Jr., and the inspirational Glen L.
Opp. All are members of the Education Committee.
Heartfelt thanks are extended to the Ohio Masonic Home and their staff for again allowing us
the use of their facility.
Topics of conversation within the committee this year centered around: the development of 4
new talks to be rotated with those in the Chapter Management Manual; distributing Pocket Cards
to the D.E.O.s for presentation to deserving Companions; developing an additional form of
recognition for those finishing a second complete series of schools; a compilation of verified
“Quick Facts” for use by the D.E.O.; the development of a D.E.O. Handbook; an updating of the
Education section of the Chapter
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter66
Management Manual; holding the D.E.O. School in August at the same time and place, although
separately from the District Deputy School.
OFFICERS SCHOOL OF INSTRUCTION
Once each year the District Deputies Grand High Priest are to organize and present an Officers
School of Instruction. These are traditionally held during the months of June through September
as a district school, or more often, as a regional school. It is usually at this time that the Grand
King presents his program for the upcoming year. The District Deputies must continually search
for innovative, creative and useful methods and information to present to the Companions
Nonetheless, The School of Instruction must continue to be an opportunity for all Royal Arch
Masons to gain knowledge and to become a better officer and member, no matter of their status in
the Chapter.
Again, as in recent years, the minimum length of time for instruction has remained less than the
prescribed minimum of 4 hours. It is imperative that we keep in mind the intended purpose of this
school and plan accordingly.
Unfortunately, not all deputies submitted their reports. The Chairman realizes that in the case
of Regional Schools, the Deputy of the host District files the report, however
more often than not, the information is incomplete for the other Districts in attendance. This is to
be addressed at the Deputies School of Instruction held in August. We trust that all reports will be
received this next year. A big THANK YOU is extended to those Deputies who submitted their
reports in a timely manner.
District 1 July 19, 2008 Findlay 3/5 Chapters present 3 Companions
District 2 July 19, 2008 Findlay 3/6 Chapters present 3 Companions
District 3 Aug. 2, 2008 Lebanon 11/17 Chapters present 30 Companions
District 4 June 14, 2008 Norwood 15/15 Chapters present 43 Companions
District 5 July 12, 2008 Logan 5/7 Chapters present 9 Companions
District 6 April 5, 2008 Mechanicsburg 6/8 Chapters present 14 Companions
District 7 July 19, 2008 Findlay No information No information
District 8 July 19, 2008 Findlay 4/5 Chapters present 11 Companions
District 9 June 2, 2008 Mansfield 10/10 Chapters present 13 Companions
District 10 June 2, 2008 Mansfield 9/9 Chapters present 17 Companions
District 11 May 10, 2008 Mt. Vernon 8/9 Chapters present 18 Companions
District 13 July 12, 2008 Logan 6/8 Chapters present 12 Companions
District 14 July 14, 2008 Logan No information No information
District 15 April 12, 2008 Bellaire No information No information
District 16 Oct. 13, 2007 Medina 7/9 Chapters present 15 Companions
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 67
District 17 Oct. 13, 2007 Medina 5/6 Chapters present 17 Companions
District 18 April 12, 2008 Bellaire 3/5 Chapters present 10 Companions
District 19 April 12, 2008 Bellaire No information No information
District 20 Oct. 13, 2007 Medina 4/7 Chapters present 5 Companions
RESOURCE COURSE:
The resource course is a series of questions on Capitular Code, protocol, bylaws, procedures,
and other related Capitular topics. Answers are gleaned from the Grand Chapter code, Chapter
Management Manual, Officer manual and other reference books. As the code and other sources of
information are updates or modified, the resource course must be modified as well to reflect
current information.
Each year we encourage our Chapter officers (and any interested Companion) to complete the
course. The committee was very pleased to provide certificates to the following Companions for
efforts in having successfully completed Series I and / or Series II:
Kevin Faus Lebanon #5 Series I & Series II
Bill Murvay Lebanon #5 Series I & Series II
David Slusher Lebanon #5 Series I & Series II
Floyd E. Wymer Warren #6 Series I
David W. Hyde Mahoning #10 Series I & Series II
Carl E. Smith Hamilton #21 Series I & Series II
Alex P. Roberts Wooster #27 Series I
Ken Kempka Conneaut #76 Series I & Series II
James Streeky Youngstown #93 Series I & Series II
James Forney Salem #94 Series I & Series II
Steven R. Herner Bellevue #113 Series I & Series II
Gary Nicholson Victory #210 Series I
Terry Towles Victory #210 Series I
James C. Cunningham Niles #223 Series I & Series II
Fred M. Smith, Jr. Niles #223 Series I & Series II
Raymond F. Bishop Niles #223 Series I & Series II
John Johnson Mt. Moriah #230 Series I & Series II
Fredrick Gallo Twin Valley #240 Series I & Series II
Terry Hurcutt Twin Valley #240 Series I & Series II
John D. Mize Twin Valley #240 Series I & Series II
Jimmy Pelfrey Twin Valley #240 Series I & Series II
McKinley Polston Twin Valley #240 Series I & Series II
Richard Roush Twin Valley #240 Series I & Series II
George M. Shell Twin Valley #240 Series I & Series II
Kenneth Turner Twin Valley #240 Series I & Series II
Aaron Crawford Friendship #245 Series I & Series II
Donald E. Wilcox Friendship #245 Series I & Series II
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter68
ROYAL ARCH SCHOOLS
The yearly duty of the District Education Officers (DEO) is the presentation of series of Royal
Arch Schools, as detailed in the Chapter Management Manual. The schools may be eight sessions
conducted within one year or four sessions over a two-year period. The topics to be covered for
the school are established by the education committee, however, deviations to the recommended
curriculum is allowed to enable qualified speakers to take part. Companions who attend all 8
sessions are awarded a pocket card acknowledging their participation.
A review of the “Summary Reports of Royal Arch Schools” from the District Education
Officers is as follows:
District 1: No report submitted
District 2: 3 Sessions Average time: 2 hours Ave. attendance: 15
District 3: 4 Sessions Average time: 2 hours Ave. attendance: 2
District 4: 3 Sessions Average time: 1 hour Ave. attendance: 24
District 5: 2 Sessions Average time: 1 hour. Ave. attendance: 14
Pocket Cards presented: Ralph Cyrus Chillicothe #4
Ralph Mahaffey Chillicothe #4
Jean W. Justus, Jr. Circleville #20
R. Keith O’Dell Hillsboro #40
Richard Smith Manchester #129
District 6: 1 Session Average time: 4 hours Ave. attendance: 10
District 7: 4 Sessions Average time: ¾ hours Ave. attendance: 15
District 8: No report submitted
District 9: 2 Sessions Average time: 1 ¼ hours Ave. attendance: 16
District 10: 3 Sessions Average time: 1 hours Ave. attendance: 24
District 11: 1 Session Average time: 3 ½ hours Ave. attendance: 31
District 13: 4 Sessions Average time: 1 hour Ave. attendance: 13
Pocket Cards presented: R. Dan Smith Rufus Putnam #108
District 14: No report submitted
District 15: 4 Sessions Average time: ¾ hour Ave. attendance: 9
District 16: 4 Sessions Average time: 1 ¼ Ave. attendance: 16
District 17: 1 Session Average time: 2 hours Ave. attendance: 16
District 18: 2 Sessions Average time: 3 hours Ave. attendance: 8
District 19: 4 Sessions Average time: ¾ hour Ave. attendance: 19
District 20: 1 Session Average time: 3 hours Ave. attendance: 15
INSPECTION REPORTS:
Chapter Education Officer Reports (RAE 3) are to submitted to the District Education Officer,
and from him, forwarded to the Chairman of the Education Committee by May 15th of each year.
These reports detail the educational activities of the constituent Chapters and are to be completed
at the annual Inspection. Once again, six Districts did not submit these reports this year. Untimely
illness and problems of a personal nature
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 69
have been cited for the reasons and often they cannot be prevented. However, in time of need,
Companions and Right Excellent Companions must be willing to step up and fill a void wherever
needed. This situation can be corrected and must be corrected. A grateful thank you to those
reporting in a timely fashion.
Each District Education Officer is to be commended for his hard work and efforts on behalf of
the Education Committee; for conducting the Royal Arch Schools; attending inspections; and for
visiting the Chapters and providing our members with additional “Light and Knowledge.” You
are the backbone of the education program in Ohio.
Fraternally submitted,
Kermit V. Zimmerman, PGHP, Chairman Wayne S. Dill, PGHP
Donald E. Wilcox, PDDGHP 3rd District Randal E. Davis, DDGHP 19th District
Glen L. Opp, Grand Fraternal Correspondent Jeffrey L. Addis, DDGHP 16th District
Henry A. Dodson, .PDDGHP. 3rd District Thomas Tupper, PDDGHP 19th District
INTRODUCTION AND RECOGNITION OF THE RECIPIENTS of theEARL C. GIFFORD DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
Most Excellent Companion Pugh read the names of the Companions who had received the
Earl C. Gifford Distinguished Service Award at the grand banquet the previous evening.
Companions Robert R. Neff, Jonny Dicke, and Curtis M. Jackson, being in attendance, were
asked to present themselves west of the Altar where they were then accorded the Grand Honors of
Masonry by the Companions. All previous recipients of this award also being asked to come forth
and join them at the Altar.
The fourth recipient of the DSA, Excellent Companion Ross Black, was unable to attend. He
was contacted by Grand High Priest Pugh the previous evening to inform him of his award. It will
be presented at the upcoming Grand High Priest’s reception.
COMMENTS FROM MOST EXCELLENT COMPANION JAMES WALLExecutive Director of Royal Arch Research Assistance
“Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Distinguished East and Companions all.
I was talking to someone this morning and said how long it’s been since I was not here to your
convocations. I really can’t remember.
As Executive Director of Royal Arch Research Assistance, I would say to you that I believe
everyone in the room, because yesterday you heard the very moving, first-hand experience that has
to do the research that is being supported by Royal Arch Research Assistance. It’s very difficult
for me to try and follow such a thing. But mainly, what I need to say is thank you for your
participation this past year. I think it might've been down a little bit from the year before; it might
be up a little bit. I really didn't check the records before I left home. Irrespective of that, your
contributions over the years have been greatly appreciated. We realize full well that this is a
philanthropy of General Grand Chapter and your Grand Chapter is not a currently not a member of
General Grand. I keep hoping you will come back someday.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter70
If there is anybody in the room that is not aware of this, I will say to you that this Royal Arch
Research Assistance really began in Ohio; started by Most Excellent Companion Edward Selby
when he was General Grand High Priest. It was his brainchild and he made the first contribution -
a check for $101.00 with directions to the General Grand Secretary to establish two accounts
which have become the regular contributions and the Memorial and/or Honorary contributions.
One hundred dollars going to the one account and one dollar going to the other.
I wish I had a stack of awards to pass out today. I've been known to come up here with two or
three pins to pass out or one thing or another. I guess that might do more good for me than it does
for you. I'm sure the recipients are quite proud that we do that.
We still support research; we do not operate research; we support it. But there is a difference
from about three years ago in that Able Kids Foundation, where the research that we support is
now being done, has two members of General Grand Chapter on their Board of Directors - Most
Excellent Companion Larry E. Gray and Most Excellent Companion Emory Ferguson. Their
terms, as I understand it, expire this July. They’ll both be there for a little while yet and we will
still have two people on it. I can now turn
around and say, ‘Smokey, tell me what's going on at Able Kids. You know a lot better than I do
as director.’
Thank you for the courtesies that have been extended to me and my wife, and by the way,
yesterday was my bride’s anniversary. Somebody asked me yesterday how long and I told them
you'll never guess. Someone spouted off three years - they were right! Four years ago I was here
at your grand convocation. I came on Tuesday morning and went back home on Thursday. When
I got there, there were newspapers on the porch and mail in the box and I knew something wasn't
quite right. The end result of that was that she died about a month later. In any event, my brother
and I got married three years ago yesterday. That requires a little bit of explanation. I first met
my wife 30 some years ago – the night I was initiated into Eastern Stars. She was the Conductress
and led me around. We stopped at one of the Star Points and said, ‘I present this sister to receive
instructions.’ Well, I started calling her brother. It didn’t make any difference where I was. She
told somebody she had taken me to the Altar twice – once in 1973 and again in 2004.
Enough said as you have to get along with your convocation. I appreciate your contributions
and if you would like to make some more, I’ll be glad to take them.
Thank you.”
PRESENTATION OF TROPHY – GRAND CHAPTER GOLF OUTING
Most Excellent Companion John W. Purdy, Past Grand High Priest and chairman of the Grand
Chapter’s golf tournament, announced that the team captained by Excellent Companion John
Donahoo, Past High Priest of Milford Chapter had again won the 1st place trophy – for the sixth
consecutive year. Excellent Companion Donahoo, being in attendance was presented the trophy.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 71
GRAND HIGH PRIEST’S AWARD
Most Excellent Companion Pugh called upon the High Priests of the following Chapters who
had met the requirements (achieving a minimum of 8 of the 12 established goals) for the ‘Grand
High Priest’s Award.’
Milford No. 35 Hillsboro No 40
St. Mary’s No. 51 Lafayette No. 60
Silver Creek No. 144 York Temple No. 155
Oak Harbor No. 162 Shelby No. 178
Hicksville No. 188 Mt. Olive No. 189
Norwood No. 193 King Cyrus No. 207
REPORT OF ROYAL ARCH FOUNDATION CHARITY AUCTION
Right Excellent Companion Robert D. Blankenhorn, secretary / treasurer of the Royal Arch
Foundation, announced that the annual charity auction, held on Wednesday evening had generated
over $4000.00. These funds would be deposited into the RAF’s endowment fund. He thanked the
Companions and their ladies for the donated items and for their participation at the event.
REPORT OF THE ROYAL ARCH FOUNDATION COMMITTEE
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
The Royal Arch Foundation is pleased to submit the following report for year 2007 – 2008:
The vision or goal of the Foundation is: to be the charity of choice for all Royal Arch Masons
in Ohio; to keep our membership informed of our activities; to encourage their financial support of
the Foundation; to generate funds through innovative fund raising efforts; to involve all Royal
Arch Masons with the activities of our selected charity; and to create a permanent endowment
fund to ensure the financial viability of the Foundation for the future.
The Foundation has selected the Adopt American Network, headquartered in Toledo, as the
charity worthy of our support as Royal Arch Masons. In the United States, more than 114,000
children have been waiting in the foster care system for years. An overwhelming number of them
have suffered neglect, abuse and abandonment. They long to belong to someone – to have a
loving touch, a reassuring hug, the security of a permanent adoptive family.
Every child deserves a home and family where they can feel safe, secure and loved. Adopt
America Network’s mission is to find forever families for the children who wait in foster care.
Their national network of volunteer adoption specialists brings together those special children
with families that offer love and permanence
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter72
Each year, three trustees of the Foundation complete their appointed term of office. The newly
installed Grand High Priest may choose to re-appoint them or select other qualified Companions
to serve on the Foundation board. Following his installation in October, 2007, Most Excellent
Companion Pugh appointed the following to serve as trustees:
M.E.C. Jean Justus Three (3 )year Terms to expire in October, 2010
R.E.C. Norman Lobell* Three (3) years
R.E.C. Don Losasso* Three (3) years
Continuing to serve as trustees are:
M. E. C. Wayne S. Dill Two (2) year Term to expire in October, 2009
M. E. C. Kermit Zimmerman Two (2) years
R. E. C. Robert Draye Two (2) years
M. E. C. Jerry Crawford One (1) year Term to expire in October, 2008
M. E. C. Robert D. Crabbs One (1) year
M. E. C. Garis Pugh One (1) year
Retiring in 2007: * New in 2007
James McDonald & Robert Wise
The supply of pamphlets that we provide to secretaries to include with dues notices, having
been exhausted, 60,000 new pamphlets were printed. This equates to a three-year supply.
Printing of the pamphlets was donated by Don Mor Associates in Mansfield with the Foundation
having to pay for only ink and paper. Their generous contribution is sincerely appreciated and has
saved us significant money in printing costs. (You may notice that the new pamphlet features a
photo of the Meadows family from Sandusky. They were the family that joined us at the Grand
Chapter banquet in 2007).
The pamphlet not only highlights the mission of the Foundation but provides an overview of
the goals of the Adopt America Network. This new pamphlet, unlike the original, now allows
members who so choose, to use their Visa or MasterCard to make contributions.
The Foundation’s second annual silent auction was held following the Grand Chapter banquet
in 2007. A number of Companions and ladies contributed a variety of items and gifts. Their gifts
allowed us to generate over $3000.00 that was forwarded to the Foundation’s Endowment fund.
Since its inception just three years ago, the endowment has grown to over $9000.00. (The goal is
to grow the endowment and use the interest to provide scholarships to kids currently in the Adopt
America Network.)
The third annual auction will be held on Wednesday evening, October 8th. We hope it is even
more successful than the previous two!
Adopt America Network conducts their annual Charity Auction in Toledo each October.
Attending in 2007 was Most Excellent Companion Garis Pugh and lady Ginny. He presented
AAN a check for $13,500.00 on behalf of the Foundation and the Royal Arch Masons in Ohio! I
join Most Excellent Companion Pugh in thanking the Companions, Chapters and Districts for your
continuing support of our philanthropy. You do Ohio proud!
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 73
(A full financial report of the Foundation will be provided by Secretary / Treasurer Robert
Blankenhorn and included as a part of this report.)
In addition to the financial support we provide to AAN, Royal Arch Masons in the Toledo area
have taken an active part in the activities of Adopt America. The 7th district hosted a number of
AAN employees and kids at their annual hog roast; Companions of the 8th district purchased 25
tickets for AAN families and kids to join us at our annual outing at the Mudhens baseball game;
setup and served dinner at the AAN annual Christmas party; and assisted with the move to the new
AAN offices in downtown Toledo. These extra efforts are appreciated by the staff and families at
Adopt America (and we have fun doing them!)
* * * * * * *
Edieann Didham, former president of Adopt America, was instrumental in forming the
partnership that began with Adopt America and the Royal Arch Foundation. Edieann passed from
this life after a long illness on February 9, 2008, with her husband Jim holding her hand. A Service
of Remembrance was held in the Chapel of Deck-Hanneman Funeral Home, in Bowling Green,
Ohio on Thursday February 14. A number of Grand Chapter officers and Foundation trustees
attended this service. It was a time for us to come together to celebrate all she had accomplished,
rather than as a time to mourn her passing.
A member of First Presbyterian Church in Findlay, Ohio, she was ordained Stephen's Minister
and a member of the ministerial teaching staff. Edieann was a member of Grand Rapids Chapter,
Order of Eastern Star, and Findlay Assembly, Social Order of Beauceant. Edieann worked
tirelessly as a liaison with the Royal Arch Masons of Ohio to facilitate their sponsorship of Adopt
America Network. She was a member of the Toledo Rotary living the Rotarian motto, "Service
above self". Edieann continued to serve Adopt America Network after her retirement as an active
member of the Board of Directors. At the end of her life, she was grateful for the love and support
of family and friends.
In May of 2000, Edieann Didham joined Adopt America Network (AAN) as President. Having
been retired from BGSU for one whole weekend, it would soon be clear that she had immediately
found her newest calling and set out to make her passion a reality…a home for every child.
For four years, Edieann ate and slept Adopt America Network. She strove for excellence in all
she did and challenged those who worked for her to do the same. More kids were finding homes
than ever before and the message was reverberating that AAN was on the way to becoming a true
leader among adoption programs across the country.
The accomplishments during Edieann’s tenure were extensive. Her ability to engage others in
the mission of AAN helped us to expand our support locally and regionally. She worked tirelessly
to secure the partnership of the Royal Arch Masons bringing a new dimension to AAN’s outreach
and family recruitment efforts to communities around the state. The expansion of the adoption
specialist network of volunteers brought AAN’s reach to many new states. And most importantly,
under Edieann’s leadership, new methods of providing service to our families and to children’s
case workers were
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter74
developed. These included the development of the AAN’s copy-writed electronic matching
program that resulted in over 800 placements during her tenure.
Edieann brought a zest for life and a commitment to children to everything she did. Those she
met along the way can attest to her spirited approach and her resolve regarding the importance of a
family in the life of a child.
She will be deeply missed. She will be long-celebrated.
Edieann’s spirit lives on in all of us who share her passion, her dedication and her deep love for
children.
(A full rendering of Edieann’s accomplishments may be found on the AAN website:
Adoptamericannetwork.org)
* * * * * *
The Companions are reminded that the Grand Chapter website: www.ohioram.org, has a link
to the Royal Arch Foundation. The site includes our Mission Statement, a listing of trustees,
forms for the charity auction, other related Foundation information and a link to Adopt America’s
website. Take the time to check it out!
We conclude this report with an updated (2008) Foundation fact sheet that provides a number
of answers to questions about the Foundation. Companions that have additional questions on the
Foundation or on the Adopt America Network, may contact me or any of the Foundation trustees.
Wayne Dill, Past Grand High Priest
Royal Arch Foundation Chairman
* * * *
Royal Arch Foundation Information Sheet
February, 2008
Is the Royal Arch Foundation incorporated and does it have 501(c)(3) status?
Yes! The Royal Arch Foundation, having being approved by Grand Chapter in 2002,
Jurisprudence Chairman George Hall submitted Articles of Incorporation to the State of
Ohio and our Secretary filed the necessary forms to the IRS for approval. We are
incorporated and were granted 501(c)(3) status by the IRS in September, 2003.
Can I deduct contributions to the Foundation on my income tax?
Yes! Now that we have 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, all contributions to the
Foundation are tax deductible as allowed by the IRS. As with any charitable
contribution, always check with your tax advisor or accountant.
Will my donations be documented?
The Foundation’s secretary / treasurer maintains an extensive database that tracks all
donations. With a contribution of $10, or more, the Foundation sends a letter
acknowledging your contribution. For your tax records, the IRS only requires you to
have a statement confirming contributions of cash or by check for amounts of $500.00
or more from a charitable organization.
Will I be recognized for my contributions?
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 75
Absolutely! The Foundation will recognize an individual, a Chapter, or an outside
group’s contributions. Depending on the size of a donation, a certificate, or in some
cases, a lapel pin will be presented to acknowledge your support of the Foundation.
Please ensure your donations, made payable to the “Royal Arch Foundation”, are sent
directly to the Foundation at: PO Box 511, Shelby, Oh 44875. Do not send to the
Grand Secretary’s office.
What are the awards being given?
A Chapter donating an amount equivalent to $1.00 per member will receive a certificate
for 100% participation; an individual, Chapter or District donating $100.00 will receive
a silver certificate; a $250.00 contribution will be recognized with at gold certificate.
$500.00 will be a lapel pin with a Sapphire; $1500 an Amethyst; $2500 a Ruby and at
the $3500 level, the stone will be a diamond. Unlike some other charities where awards
are based upon an annual donation, all contributions to the RAF will accumulate and
your award will keep upgrading to the next level.
What about R.A.R.A.? Have we dropped them as a Charity?
Royal Arch Research Assistance is still the charity of the General Grand Chapter
International and we encourage your continuing support of this fine organization. The
Royal Arch Foundation was formed to meet the needs of Ohio Royal Arch Masons but
not at the exclusion of a charity that we have supported for so many years. Remember,
all RARA donations are to be sent to the Grand Secretary’s office. He will then forward
them on to RARA. The Foundation does ask that for any current or future giving, you
consider making the Foundation your charity of choice. The Foundation has selected
the Adopt America Network as the recipient of its support.
Who is in charge of the Foundation and how are they elected?
The trustees for Board of Directors are selected from active Royal Arch Masons in Ohio.
Each year, three of these trustees will have their terms expire. The Grand High Priest
then has the option of re-appointing him / them or securing a new trustee(s). The Grand
High Priest, Grand King and Grand Scribe will serve as “ex officio” members of the
board.
Does all of my donation go to Adopt America?
No, not all of it. A small percentage of your donations will be held by the foundation to
pay for administrative expenses – this includes postage, the cost of certificates and lapel
pins, printing brochures, etc. No salary or expenses are paid to any of the board
members.
What does the Adopt America Network expect from Royal Arch Masonry?
Well, our financial support for sure. However, our contributions are a small part of their
overall operating budget. More importantly, AAN wants Royal Arch Masons to share
the message of special needs adoption within our communities, churches, and other civic
groups. Further, they hope that concerned Royal Arch Masons can help locate new
adoptive parents who are willing to fill this most vital role.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter76
What does Adopt America really do?
Adopt America’s goal is to find permanent homes for hard to place children that are
currently in the foster care system. These are the children most difficult to place – older
children, minority and mixed race, children who are part of a sibling group, and children
with physical or emotional problems. They believe that every child is entitled to a
permanent loving home. They utilize a network of volunteer adoption specialists, who
are themselves adoptive parents, to recruit and match families with waiting children. In
2007, 231 children were placed in permanent homes. The goal is to increase the number
each year. With our support, they will achieve this goal.
How much does it cost to adopt a child?
The adoptive parents pay nothing. Adopt America provides family services including
training, home studies, referrals for support services, and matching with children in
foster care. All of this adds up to about $3800.00 per child in 2008. Because they
utilize volunteer adoption specialists, they can save taxpayers in two ways – then annual
cost of maintaining a child in foster care
which is around $25,000 per year and the $20,000 to $40,000 in costs usually associated
in the normal adoption process. The Royal Arch Foundation will continue to use
$3500.00, the cost of placing a child when we first associated
with the Adopt America Network, as our target for special recognition – the diamond
lapel pin.
How do we expect to get the message out?
For one, ensure that the pamphlets, distributed to each Chapter secretary, are included
with the dues notices. The Adopt America Network provides speakers who will come
and present a program, however, if you ask them to do this, make it worth their while.
(They shouldn’t have to drive a hundred or two hundred miles to speak to only three
people!) Each of the quarterly news letters distributed by AAN feature an article,
including photos, about the Royal Arch Masons and our support of AAN. Contact them
at 1-800-246-1731 and be sure to mention you are a Royal Arch Mason. Don’t forget
to refer friends to the AAN website – www.adoptamericanetwork.org - it’s a great
source of information on adoption. Notice that they include the Royal Arch Mason
Keystone right on their home page!
What can we do right now?
Continue sharing the message of the Royal Arch Foundation and its connection and
support of Adopt America. Work on a fund raising projects. Consider attending any of
the several AAN sponsored events, namely their annual Family Recruitment Day, held
in Toledo (usually in July). Their main fund raising event is the annual Dinner Auction,
also held in Toledo in October each year. You might want to consider donating an item
to support this event. AAN also conducts an “Adoption Carnival” for prospective
adoption families and special needs kids. Gary LaRoche, a Past District Deputy Grand
High Priest, and AAN Board member, has acted as carnival chairman for several years.
Companions from Districts 7 & 8 have been taking an active part in the
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 77
carnival, as was well as helping at the annual AAN Christmas party and other AAN
activities when needed.
Can my Chapter sponsor an adoption event?
Absolutely!! Adopt America Network has adoption specialists working around the state
of Ohio recruiting families and matching them with children who wait in foster care. A
Chapter can sponsor an adoption fair and family recruitment celebration. Adopt
America will assist with you in setting up the event. As a sponsor, you help Adopt
America Network cover the costs of carnival games, toys, prizes, refreshments and all
the other items needed to bring families together to support adoption. It’s a great
opportunity for Masonry, the public and Adopt America to come together in your
community!
When is the next Adopt America Network Annual Auction?
Adopt America Network’s is already preparing for the 23rd Annual Dinner Auction to
be held on Friday, October 10, 2008. Companies or individuals interested in sponsorship
packages ranging from $1500 to $25,000 are
welcome. Donations of items for the auction are also welcome. All Royal Arch Masons
are invited to attend and will be given special recognition.
Is the Foundation sponsoring a fund raising auction at Grand Chapter this year?
Absolutely! We generated over $4000 from our first ever event held at Grand Chapter
in 2006 and an additional $3000 in 2007. The proceeds from these auctions were
deposited in our Endowment fund. As the fund grows, it will provide scholarships to
special needs kids within the AAN network. For 2008, we are hoping to expand the
event and even include a live auction for some of the donated items. Informational
flyers and handouts will be distributed at the various Grand King’s programs this
summer. Contributors are reminded that their donated items may be tax deductible (as
always, check with your tax advisor.)
If I have additional questions, who do I call?
Contact Foundation Chairman Wayne Dill (734-782-5204) or Secretary / Treasurer Bob
Blankenhorn (419-.589-2174). They can handle your questions about the foundation
and forward any questions about the Adopt America Network on to their staff in Toledo.
In the future, you might want to check out the Grand Chapter’s web-site at
www.ohioram.org. There you will find a link to the AAN web site.
Royal Arch Foundation Financial Report - August 13, 2008
Beginning Balance 8/13/07 $15,818.40
Income
Donations $19,417.89
Auction (2007) $3,502.88
Endowment (2008) $678.98
Total Income $23,599.75
Expenses
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter78
Adopt America $13,500.00
Endowment Fund $3,502.88
Printing (Pamphlets) $1,100.00
Grand High Priest Reception $267.63
Insurance $327.24
Office Expense $913.88
Total Expense $19,611.63
Balance On Hand 8/13/08 $19,806.52
ENDOWMENT ACCOUNTS
Principle and Interest
From 2006 Auction & Donations $5,851.45
From 2007 Auction & Donations $3,600.17
Total as of 8/13/08 $9,451.62
REPORT of COMMITTEE on CHARTERS & DISPENSATIONS
(Amended from the published report at the Grand Convocation)
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
There were three consolations and one dedication of a Mark Master Lodge this past year. They
are as follows:
DATE ACTION DISTRICT
October 03, 2007 Fayette Mark Lodge # 4 Constituted District 5
January 30, 2008 Fayette Mark Lodge # 4 Received Charter District 5
March 26, 2008 Alliance #83 consolidated with Canton #84 District 18
September 1, 2008 Delta #179 consolidated with Norwood #193 District 4
October 1, 2008 Crestline #88 consolidated with Galion #142 District 10
The Charters and Dispensation Committee wish a great deal of success to the above Chapters
and the new Mark Master Lodge. There are several other Chapters contemplating mergers. This
committee believes we must look to the needs of the future. We also believe that only a very few
Chapters can be more effective in promoting Royal Arch Masonry and all of the York Rite by
merging, than where they are now located.
Please remember that this committee should be informed prior to the first steps in a
Consolidation being taken. We stand ready to help any Chapter in any way that we can.
Respectfully submitted:
James M. McDonald PGHP Chairman Daniel S. Smith, DDGHP 11th Dist.
Donald W. Owens Gr. Master 2nd Veil William A. Whittenberger, DDGHP 17th Dist.
James C. Stephens, Jr. DDGHP 3rd Dist.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 79
CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE, Final Report
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
Your Committee on Credentials herewith submits its final report for this 192nd Annual
Convocation:
Grand Officers………………………………………………………..……… 18
Past Grand High Priests……………………………………………………… 15
District Deputies Grand High Priest………………………………….……… 25
Past District Deputies Grand High Priest………………………………….… 38
District Education Officers…………………………………………….….…. 14
Voting Delegates (other than listed above)……………………………….… 301
Voting Past High Priests (other than listed above)…………………………. 112
Distinguished Guests from Ohio ………………………………………….… 50
Guests from other Jurisdictions……………………………………………… 19
Other Companions…………………………………………………………… 14
Total Companions in attendance……………………………………………. 592
Ladies registered …………………………………………………………… 126
Chapters represented…………………………………………………..….… 147
Mark Lodges represented……………………………………………………… 4
Chapters not represented (3) .Millersburg #86; Garfield #150; Kinsman #212
Respectfully submitted,
John W. Hartsock, PDDGHP, 6th Dist. Chairman Harold K. Stimmel, PDDGHP 7th Dist.
Richard L. Boitnott, PHP New Carlisle #57 Joseph W. Hickman, PHP Marion #62
Herbert L. Phares, PHP New Carlisle #57 Richard W. Stewart, PHP Shawnee #237
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TIME AND PLACE
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
Your Committee on Time and Place recommends that the 193rd Grand Convocation of the
Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the State of Ohio be convened in Independence, Ohio on
October 7th and 8th, 2009 at the Holiday Inn Cleveland South, Independence, Ohio 44131.
This recommendation is made in view of the invitation received from the District Deputies
Grand High Priest and the Companions of the 16th Capitular District.
Respectfully submitted,
Robert J. Draye, Grand King Donald L. Losasso, Grand.Scribe
Charles J McCarty, PGHP, Grand Treasurer Dale G. Ray, Jr., PGHP, Grand.Secretary
Norman LoBell, PDDGHP 4th District
COMMITTEE REPORTS
The following committee reports, not presented verbally by their chairmen, were approved as
printed and distributed:
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter80
COMMITTEE ON UNFINISHED BUSINESS
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
We, your Committee on Unfinished Business, find that there is nothing to report under
Unfinished Business from the last Convocation of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the
State of Ohio.
Respectfully submitted,
Alan D. Hart, PGHP, Chairman John W. Purdy, PGHP
Jerry C. Crawford, PGHP, Honorary Chairman Arthur E. Ross, PGHP
William M. Berry, PGHP
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CONSTITUENT RETURNS
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter
of Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
It is with extreme sadness that after reviewing the records concerning the Annual Returns of
our chapters that the committee had to fine ten Chapters the fee of $50.00 for filing late or
incomplete returns as prescribed by section 106.03 of the Code.
Six chapters (6) (Bellevue #113, Sidney #130, Wyoming #146, Garfield #150, Delta #179 and
Fayette Mark Lodge #4 submitted their annual reports and per capita after the July 1st deadline.
As of July 6, 2008, four (4) chapters (Trowel#70, Van Wert #71, Heights #206 and H.W.
Wright #226 were late in submitting their payments.
A big THANK YOU to all the Secretaries and Treasurers for sending in their annual returns
and per capita to the Grand Secretary in a timely manner.
Fraternally submitted,
George M. Shell, GRAC , Chairman. Dale G. Ray, Jr., PGHP, Gr. Secretary David L.
Vassar, Grand Marshal. Steven A. Duncan, PGHP
Donald R. Lutz, Grand Musician
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio
The function of this committee is to review and approve dispensation requests if proper; to
review proposed amendments to Chapter By-Laws; to review the Grand Chapter Code and By-
Laws to ensure they are up to date and track accordingly with any changes to the Grand Lodge of
Ohio Code, and to serve as counsel for the Grand High Priest and Grand Officers in matters
relating to the interpretation of the Code and compliance with all State and Federal laws.
Throughout the past Capitular year, the Chairman has worked closely with the Grand High
Priest and Grand officers regarding dispensation approval, and review and interpretation of several
portions of the Grand Chapter Code and By-Laws. Particularly,
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 81
issues arose and were dispensed of which related to By-Law section 21 having to do with custody
and use of rituals, Code section 128 having to do with current grievance and trial procedure, and
By-Law section 31 which deals with the consolidation of chapters.
It is the committee’s recommendation and continued plan to propose changes to Code section
128 so that the language tracks the Grand Lodge of Ohio Code section dealing with grievance and
trial procedure, and also By-Law section 31 to hopefully make the future consolidation of chapters
more efficient and “user friendly” for those individuals wishing to utilize this procedure.
Respectfully submitted,
Michael J. Spisak, #187, Chairman John H. Whitehouse, #187
David W. Leifer, #231 Ross R. Black, II, #225
REPORT OF THE CHARITY AND BENEVOLENCE COMMITTEE
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
This committee recommends that the Companions of this Grand Chapter continue to support
those philanthropies that we have adopted and established throughout the years.
The charitable organizations we support are: The Ohio Masonic Home Communities, the
Royal Arch Foundation and Royal Arch Research Assistance.
With the declining membership in Grand Chapter and the increased needs of our charities, we
need to go outside of our chapters and into our communities to find innovative ways to raise funds
to support these charities.
Yes, a very small portion of your per capita goes towards his endeavor. But, this is not
enough! IF every companion in Grand Chapter would add an extra $2.00 when he pays his dues,
look how much more money we would have that could go toward our charities.
We believe that all of these organizations are worthy of your support. We know that times are
tough and all of us have hard choices to make as to where we spend our extra money. But, please,
give these charities your consideration as best you can when paying your dues.
Fraternally submitted,
John R. Gartrell, PGHP Chairman Wayne S. Dill, PGHP
Robert D. Blackenhorn,Jr.,GM of 1st Veil Jean W. Justus, PGHP
F. Raymond Sharritts, Grand Chaplain Arthur T. Reeves, PGHP
William M. Berry, PGHP Gray L. LaRoche, PDDGHP 7th District
REPORT of the COMMITTEE on YORK RITE COOPERATION
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
I asked our MEGHP, Garis Pugh, last year when he appointed me to serve as chairman of this
committee, what should I do, he responded, “tell everyone to get along.” It was worth a laugh.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter82
Anyone that has ever served on this committee will tell you honestly that it is one of the hardest
committees on which to serve. When you ask several dozen brethren, companions and sir knights
to all pull in the same direction-it’s like marching to the winds.
This year we had two very good meetings of the York Rite Cooperation committee on a state
level with not only good attendance, but a major theme in mind. This year’s theme was called:
The Different Steps of Leadership and was presented in two sessions. The first meeting in
Columbus in January was well attended and we heard ideas on what it takes to be a leader in our
Masonic Fraternity. The second session at the Ohio Masonic Home last Sunday was also well
attended and the meeting was concluded with the sharing of information by our commentator and
much was gained.
Even with the officers of the past serving in two or more Grand Lines at the same time, we find
ourselves working against ourselves. Those who have served as Past Presiding Officers of the
Grand York Rite Bodies and then as Eminent Prior of KCYH find it hard to keep our minds
working one group and serving another line as well and concentrating on cooperating with dates,
times and other items that come to mind as a presiding officer.
With the busyness of all our travels and the lack of enough time to do all that we need to do, we
find ourselves with conflicts. We find ourselves with two and sometimes three meetings at the
same time on the same days. What can be done? Very little I fear.
All the members of this committee this year are members of as many appendant bodies as have
been made available to them. Not only are we members, but we are active members supporting all
the bodies to which we belong.
Speaking specifically for this corps of officers for the next nine years, we are trying our best to
“get along”. For the next nine years at least, Grand Chapter, Grand Council and Grand
Commandery are trying their best to meet in the same city to help solve the problem of meeting all
over the state for our convocations. For the next as many years as are possible, receptions and
grand family meetings are attempting to be held with the thought of less miles being traveled and
more meetings held in a central location. I know that each of us line officers are in contact with
our Masonic counterparts in other bodies and are attempting to meet in the same cities for
convocations as well as in the same hotels in order to make our Grand Sessions easier for each
other and for all the members attending. This is cooperation. If we can possibly make a better,
smoother operation Masonic machine; we are making it and trying to make it run.
We will never be able to avoid conflicts, but we are working hard to keep them to a bare
minimum and keeping our travel dollars from all going down the gas tank.
Let’s all, in the future, “get along.”
Fraternally,
Steven J. Oliver, Grand Capt..Host, Chairman Dale G. Ray, Jr., Grand Secretary
Robert J. Draye, Grand King James W. Himmelright, Grand Principal Sojourner
Donald L. Losasso, Grand Scribe. George M. Shell, Gr. Royal Arch Captain
REPORT of the ROYAL ARCH MASON MAGAZINE COMMITTEE
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 83
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
The Royal Arch Mason Magazine is and continues to be a great source of information for the
well-rounded Capitular Mason. The articles cover various topics and are of great interest for
anyone who wishes to expand their Masonic Education.
Subscriptions are available for $5.00 for one year, $23.00 for five years and $50.00 gets you a
lifetime subscription. It is suggested that Chapters get a one year subscription for all their newly
created companions in the state. It would be money well spent.
We would like to thank all those who subscribe and we also encourage everyone else to
subscribe to this magazine. It is a valuable tool for Masonic learning.
Fraternally,
Robert W. Thomas, Gr M. 3rd Veil, Chairman Neal B. Forbes, DDGHP 20th District Glenn
R. Greenamyer, DDGHP 18th District Randall E. Davis, DDGHP 19th District William A.
Whittenberger, DDGHP 17t District
REPORT of the PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
The routine publications printed by the Grand Secretary’s office, including the Code, Bulletin
#1, Red Roster, Annual Proceedings and the various and sundry forms, bulletins and notices,
continue to be done by organizing the necessary materials into a camera-ready form then,
depending on the size and or cost of the project printed in house or turned over to a professional
printer for printing or duplication..
As has been the case for many years, the Richardson Printing Corporation of Marietta, Ohio,
stands ready to meet or exceed our professional printing needs when necessary.
The Publications Committee had no specific assignments for this Capitular year and no
business came before the committee. It is the recommendation of this committee that an
evaluation is in order and that the Publication Committee’s purpose be defined.
Respectfully submitted,
Donald W. Owens, G.M. 2nd Veil, Chairman Dale G. Ray, Jr., Grand Secretary
Robert Blankenhorn, G.M. 1st Veil Ronald L. Craft, DDGHP, 2nd District
Wing Fun Chow, PDDGHP, 4th District
REPORT of the LONG RANGE PLANNING COMMITTEE
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio
Your committee on Long Range Planning met twice during the year. These meetings were
informal and conducted in a round table discussion type setting. From the discussions the
following were items that the Committee felt needed attention:
1. Most Excellent Companion Dale G. Ray, Jr. has stated that he feels that he will serve only
another three years. A commitment should be obtained from MEC
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter84
2.
Ray as to when he is going to retire. A transition plan should then be
established. This should include a search for a new Grand Secretary, training of
the new Grand Secretary prior to his assuming office, moving plans and
budgeting for the cost of the move.
3. The handling of the Grand Chapter investments is not being done exactly to the present
Grand Chapter Code. The manner in which this is being done should be reviewed. Then
either the code changes to reflect what we are presently doing or we follow what is written
in the Code. It is the recommendation of the LRP Committee that a separate Investment
Committee chaired by a banking or financial professional be established . This
recommendation is in no way meant
to suggest that the present handling of the finances has been anything but proper nor that
it could have been done in any matter more beneficial to this Grand Chapter.
4. The LRP Committee recommends that a Committee be formed with the express purpose
of assessing the present District structure and District Deputy Grand High Priest
assignments.
5. The LRP Committee recommends that the Committees of the Grand Chapter be reviewed
and a determination be made as to the necessity of each Committees existence. If a
Committee is felt to be necessary, then a description of the Committee’s purpose and
duties should be written.
6. Communications between all Masonic bodies is poor at best. Is it feasible to have all
York Rite Grand Officers on one mailing list so that they receive information about all
bodies? Can this type of inter-communication be established with Prince Hall?
Many other topics were discussed in the two meetings but did not actually fall under the LRP
Committee. These points will be referred to their proper Committees.
Respectfully submitted,
James W. Himmelright, Gr. Principal Sojourner Chairman Robert J. Draye, Grand King
Robert W. Thomas, G.M. 3rd Veil Donald L. Losasso, Grand Scribe Donald
W. Owens, G.M. 2nd Veil Steven J. Oliver, Grand Captain of the Host Robert D.
Blankenhorn, Jr., G.M. 1st Veil George M. Shell, Grand Royal Arch Captain
REPORT of the SYMBOLIC LODGE LIAISON COMMITTEE
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers, and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
The primary focus of the Symbolic Liaison Committee this year has been to work with the
Grand Lodge Education Committee. As the representative to this committee for the 20th Masonic
District, I have gained an appreciation for the efforts that the Grand Lodge puts into their
Educational program, especially their Pillars summer meetings, which are well attended. These
types of programs could serve the Grand Chapter well if implemented.
We too need to educate our Symbolic Lodge brothers. One of our unique ties to the Symbolic
Lodge continues to be the “Long Sought Word”. Each Chapter should strive to
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 85
educate their Symbolic Lodge brothers to inform them that Chapter is a logical continuation to
their Blue Lodge experience and education. Our Symbolic Lodge brothers need to be educated to
the fact that only by joining Chapter can they get the real word. Without this education, our
Symbolic Lodge brothers do not know what they are missing.
Last year’s chairman, REC Don Owens, strived to get for state-wide acceptance of the
educational skit The Peculiar Stone. This skit, under the auspices of the Apollo Dramatic Chapter,
is a short dramatization used as an introduction to the Mark Master Degree. This skit was
performed at the Kings and Scribes meeting at the 2007 Grand Chapter Convocation in an attempt
to get state wide acceptance. I would continue to encourage and challenge every Chapter to use
this skit and the pamphlets available from the Grand Chapter and the York Rite Cooperation
Committee (also available from the Grand Chapter office) as tools for educating our Symbolic
Lodge brothers and to establish good relations and understanding of the York Rite, as well as a
great membership recruitment tool.
Respectfully submitted,
Robert D. Blankenhorn, Jr., GM.1st Veil, Chair Larry E. Byrd, DDGHP, 13th District
Larry R. Hess, DDGHP, 9th District Jerry L. Belt, PHP Marysville Chapter No. 99
Chester R. Kurtz, PHP, Lafayette Chapter No. 60
REPORT of the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers, and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
We as Royal Arch Masons must help our Symbolic Blue Lodges secure new members as this is
our only source for new members. We must continue to tell the story of the York Rite in our Blue
Lodges because there are many Symbolic Lodge members that are not Royal Arch Masons and we
must continue to look at them as potential Royal Arch Masons; too many of our Symbolic Lodge
brothers do not know what Capitulary Masonry is about We must get more aggressive in telling
our story. Personal contact is the only way that we can communicate the story of Capitulary
Masonry to non-members.
The committee reviewed the manual for Membership Development and fund it to be outdated
and in need of revising. A decision was made to completely rewrite the manual for Membership
Development. The committee found a lot of information that needs to be included in the manual.
We were not able to finish what we started so we will continue to work on the manual this coming
year and come up with a product that will be useable and complete.
Respectfully submitted,
George M. Shell, GRAC, Chairman R. Keith O’Dell, DDGHP, 5th District
H. Jeffery Shaw, DDGHP, 3rd District. Daniel S. Smith, DDGHP, 11th District Thomas E.
Williams, DDGHP, 4th District. John H. Donohoo, PDEO, 4th District. Herbert L. Clonch,
Grand Guard
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter86
REPORT of the YOUTH COMMITTEE
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal arch Masons of Ohio:
Membership and strengthening the existing local youth groups is a theme common among all
the Ohio Youth groups for the upcoming year.
Ohio Jobs Daughters are working together and at their Annual hike for H.I.K.E. the daughters
raised over $1800 this past year. (H.I.K.E is the hearing impaired kid's endowment which
purchases hearing aids for young children in need.) The south east is still growing with Bethel 65
of Belpre leading the way. Once again they turned in big numbers last year in membership to
carry home the promotion trophy at Grand Session at Kenyon University. Mrs. Carol McNulty
from Bethel 65 was elected to serve as Grand Guardian and Mr. James Weed from Bethel 76 in
Cuyahoga Falls was elected to serve as Associate Grand Guardian. The Ohio Grand Bethel
Honored Queen, Kristen Davis, is also from the south east in Middleport Bethel #62. The Ohio
Miss Jobs Daughter whom was selected is Miss Holly Emge of Bethel #65 of Belpre. At the
pageant, the daughters selected Miss Nicole West of Bethel #49 in Warren as Ohio Miss
Congeniality.
This year their theme for Ohio Rainbow is "Sing a Song" and the new Grand Worthy Advisor
is Miss Lauryn Buschhaus. Ohio Rainbow this past year worked hard at raising funds and made
charitable donations to Relay For Life, Operation Christmas Child, Ohio Masonic Home, Ohio
Eastern Star Home, Knight Templar Eye Foundation and Diabetic Kids Fund . A major push is
being put forth in the next year to increase overall Ohio Rainbow membership through a newly
designed incentive program. Through this program, the Rainbow Girls can earn various awards for
bringing in new members and the leaders gain special recognition at Grand Assembly. They also
actively participated in the Grand Lodge 200th Anniversary parade by creating a float with more
than 75 girls participating. This year they have a special Statewide Initiation to be held October
25th at the Ohio Masonic Home.
Ohio DeMolay was proud to have installed at our last Grand Session in Anaheim California
MWB C. Michael Watson as the Grand Master of DeMolay International. MWB Watson is only
the second person ever to be elected from Ohio as Grand Master of DeMolay with the other being
the Late MWB Chester Hodges. Ohio DeMolay also inducted in the Ohio Hall Of Fame, former
Executive Officer and Past Grand Commander, the late Gene Loose as the final “Charter”
member. Gene was part of what was known for many years as the “gang of three” consisting of
Gene Loose, Merlyn E. Meredith, and MWB Steven J. Krekus who served Dad Hodges during the
most impressive period of growth for DeMolay in the history of Ohio DeMolay. Ohio DeMolay
also held a very successful Murder Mystery Dinner during this past year with many from the
JOBS Daughters and Ohio Rainbow participating. Ohio DeMolay is currently in the process of
doing a Chapter by Chapter assessment and improvement plan to help strengthen Ohio DeMolay
and show growth for the first time in many years. Our new State Master Councilor, Jim Johnson
from Hamilton Ohio,. is very determined to bring back the basics to Ohio DeMolay and stress not
only membership but also the four “F” of Fun, Food, Fellowship and Females!
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 87
The financial support provided to our youth by the Grand Chapter is essential to their continued
existence and we thank the Grand Chapter for their support. Working together, the Youth Groups
of Ohio can and will continue to strengthen and prosper. A major issue for all the Youth
Organizations is the need for dedicated adults. Teaching leadership skills to the members of the
Youth Organizations is the only way they will learn. We strongly urge you to consider assisting
with this worthwhile endeavor.
Respectfully submitted,
H. Jeffery Shaw, DDGHP, 3rd District, Chairman F. Raymond Sharritts, Grand.Chaplain
Don R. Lutz, Grand Musician R. Keith O’ Dell, DDGHP 5th District
John H. Donohoo, PDEO 4th District
REPORT of COMMITTEE on GRIEVANCES
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
Your Committee on Grievances is pleased to report that no grievances have been brought to
our attention during the past year.
Fraternally submitted
Terry B. Meyers, PGHP, Chairman Richard D. Hall, DDGHP, 4th District F.
Raymond Sharritts, Grand.Chaplain Gerald W. Hughes, ,DDGHP, 4th District Kermit V.
Zimmerman, PGHP
COMMITTEE ON ENDOWED MEMBERSHIP PLAN
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
Our membership is currently 17,911. We have 280 companions signed up for the endowed
membership. This is close to 2%. With all the charitable work that we do, why not consider a gift
to your chapter, if not to yourself?
The Endowed Membership Committee strongly recommends the Companions of the State
strongly consider the purchase of an Endowed Membership. It is a great lifetime gift to your
Chapter.
Respectfully submitted,
Steven A. Duncan, PGHP, .Chairman Henry A. Dodson, PDDGHP, 3rd District
Dale G. Ray, Jr., PGHP, Grand Secretary Donald E. Wilcox, PDDGHP, 3rd District
George M. Shell, Grand .Royal Arch Captain
REPORT OF THE ROYAL ARCH RESEARCH ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter
R.A.M. of Ohio:
A lot of things are happening at Able Kids Foundation, among them are:
A new DVD of RARA is being produced and to date, research participants, clients and family
members have been filmed for this video. It is hoped that this video will be
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter88
widely distributed to educate and also demonstrate the outcomes of the work of RARA and the
Able Kids Foundation’s Central Auditory Research and Diagnostic Centers.
They have recently updated their adult and pediatric Central Auditory Processing Case History
Forms. As they learn more about the complexity of the central auditory nervous system and the
resultant impact on human function, they are able to classify and explore, in greater depth, the
manifestations of CAPD.
Able Kids Foundation and forty seven other organizations participated in the first Single
Parents’ Resource Fair held in Fort Collins, Colorado. The Foundation had a booth and was
scheduled to present an hour long PowerPoint presentation and lecture on “Central Auditory
Processing Disorders in Children.” This event was well attended and great interest was generated
regarding the various programs offered at AKF.
The Foundation has been contacted by various agencies in Colorado and Wyoming to be a
service provider for their organizations. This includes the Department of Vocational
Rehabilitation in these states, Project Self-Sufficiency in Fort Collins, Colorado, Imagine! – In
Denver and various school districts.
They are still receiving many referrals from psychologists, physicians, occupational therapists,
audiologists, speech and language pathologists, physical therapists, educators and other agencies.
They have been able to evaluate and provide individualized management programs to more than
thirty clients with financial needs through the I AM ABLE Sponsorship Assistance Program.
The Foundation recently held their second annual I AM ABLE Art Extravaganza! It was
developed to showcase student artists with disabilities. Each participant was awarded a medal and
place winners medals with cash prizes.
In case you missed reading it, there is an interesting article in the Spring 2008 edition of the
Royal Arch Mason Magazine, on page 6, entitled, ”Coping with CAPD”. It was written by Dr.
Yvette Ferguson Keel, daughter of the General Grand King, Most Excellent Companion Emory J.
‘Smokey’ Ferguson. This article explains how Dr. Keel’s family copes with CAPD with her son,
Allen, was having trouble in school.
The three largest contributors to RARA this year are: Community Chapter #227, Grand
Chapter and Seneca Chapter #42. This committee thanked them for their hard work and hopes
that they will continue this for many more years.
Two Capitular Districts have made very fine contributions and they are the Second and
Nineteenth. Thanks Companions for your contributions.
The following Chapters have contributed at least $1.00 per member this past year:
Cambridge #53, Chagrin Falls #152, Seneca #42, Marshall #47, Mahoning #10, St. Marys #51,
Youngstown #93, Toronto #221, Wauseon #111, Salem #94, Wapakoneta #183, Community #227,
Palmyra #235, Northwest #45, Millersburg #86, Wakeman #177, Golden Rule #167 and Mt.
.Moriah #230.
No matter how large or small your contribution may have been, I am sure that those who are
being treated with CAPD would like to thank you for your contribution.
Companions, if we are to continue supporting R.A.R.A., let us do it in a fashion that will make
this Grand Chapter proud to be a leader in the fight to win the battle against Central Auditory
Processing Disorders.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 89
This committee believes that as long as individuals are being identified and evaluated as having
central auditory processing disorders, this Grand Chapter needs to support R.A.R.A. and help
these individuals lead more normal-like lives.
Fraternally submitted,
John R. Gartrell, PGHP , Chairman
REPORT OF APOLLO DRAMATIC CHAPTER, TABERNACLE #1
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
Greetings Companions,
Tabernacle No 1, last year, completed an exciting “Fire from Heaven” display. It features
realistic artificial flames; is activated by a remote control; and, most importantly, meets all fire /
safety requirements. Total cost to put this together is less than $100 so it is within the budget for
almost every Chapter. In addition to the display’s use in the Most Excellent Master degree, by
simply adding some greenery and a “wizard Mask” it can also be used to depict God at the burning
bush for use in the Royal Arch degree. In a darkened Lodge room, this display is impressive! I’ve
included a copy of the plans so that you may share it with your Companions. (The working
prototype has been housed with Crystal Chapter in Bowling Green and was recently borrowed by
McCutchen Chapter in Upper Sandusky for examination. It is available for evaluation by other
Chapters upon request.
As we held just a few meetings this past year, Tim Betts, High Priest has agreed to serve an
additional year for our Tabernacle. The officer corps is as follows:
High Priest Tim Betts (District 1)
King James Barnes (District 8)
Scribe Harold Stimmel (District 7)
COH Ben Gehle (District 2)
Prin Soj . Kenneth Crouch (District 1)
Sec/Trea Wayne Dill
These officers are always seeking projects that will assist Chapters in the ritualistic work of the
4 Capitular degrees – areas dealing with music, lighting, make-up, props, staging, etc. Let us
know your needs - the Tabernacles are here to help.
Respectfully submitted,
Wayne Dill, Secretary / Treasurer
REPORT OF APOLLO DRAMATIC CHAPTER, TABERNACLE #2
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
Apollo Dramatic Chapter Tabernacle No. 2 has had a very successful 2007-2008 year. The
Tabernacle has come up with some very exciting projects and has put together several long range
planning committees. These committees will be presenting updates as they progress and the
projects should be coming out to the Chapters within the next one
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter90
to five years. Tabernacle No. 2 consists of Districts 3, 4, 5, and 6. We meet in September, January
and May. Meetings for the upcoming year are tentatively scheduled in Districts 5, 6, and 3.
Officers for the ensuing year are:
High Priest Wing Fun Chow 4th District
King Michael Hale 3rd District
Scribe Richard Stewart 5th District
Principal Sojourner Bruce Holloway 4th District
Secretary / Treasurer Steven Duncan 3rd District
Special projects this year:
Tabernacle No. 2 has provided make-up for several events, including York Rite Festivals, One
Day Classes, as well as Inspections and requested demonstrations. Our thanks to EC Michael Hale
for the time he has spent traveling around and doing make-up for the various Chapters and special
events. EC Hale has also under taken the project of an illustrated DVD of make-up and costumes.
This project should be completed this year.
Several Chapters throughout the State have requested items that they were in need of for their
Chapters. Tabernacle No. 2 was able to locate and contribute these items this past year. The
participation this year has been great and we encourage the Companions to attend the meetings.
Several of the meetings have also included the Ladies with special speakers, entertainment and
demonstrations.
Several Companions from the 4th District have been traveling throughout the state and even out
of state portraying the Apollo Dramatic Chapter revised skit “The Peculiar Stone”. If you are
interested in having this skit at a stated or special meeting in your area contact EC John Donohoo,
REC Don Owens, or MEC Steve Duncan
If anyone has any special items or projects that they would like to present or any questions
regarding Apollo Dramatic Chapter Tabernacle No. 2, contact any of the Officers or Trustees.
Your support of Apollo Dramatic Chapter not only supports Capitular Masonry, but Masonry in
general. If you are not a member or live in a part of the State that does not have a Tabernacle, do
not hesitate to call for information on meetings or starting a Tabernacle.
I am certain that, under the direction of our new leader, REC Wing Fun Chow, and the
continued help and support you have given to me, this will be an even more successful and
productive year.
Respectfully submitted,
Herbert Clonch, High Priest
Steven A. Duncan, Secretary / Treasurer
REPORT OF APOLLO DRAMATIC CHAPTER, TABERNACLE #3
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
(On March 31, 2003, Tabernacle #3 was formed in Northeast Ohio and is comprised of
Districts 9, 10, 16, 17, 18, 19, & 20.)
On July 21 2008 the following officers were elected.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 91
High Priest Darrell Porter
King Jim Parker
Scribe Ed O’Brien
Sec/Treasurer Robert Blankenhorn
Trustee Robert Crabbs
(Any Companion that joined Tabernacle #3 by October 31, 2003 is a Charter Member. Currently
our membership stands at 66.
The Tabernacle has been working to put together a list of surplus equipment and robes. This
list will be mailed to all the Royal Arch chapters in the Tabernacle prior to Grand Chapter 2008.
The list will then be made available to the other Tabernacles in 2008. In addition the Tabernacle
has taken over the current surplus equipment and robes; and has stored, inventoried, and will
distribute the items upon written request. All items will be distributed free, and a monetary
donation to the Royal Arch Foundation will be requested. Robert Blankenhorn is the chairman.
It was decided that due to the high cost of travel, two meetings will be held each year. One to
be held at the Grand Convocation on Wednesday afternoons. The other to be called for by the
High Priest in the June/July time frame.
Respectfully Submitted,
Darrell Porter, High Priest Robert Blankenhorn, Secretary / Treasurer
REPORT OF APOLLO DRAMATIC CHAPTER, TABERNACLE #4
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
The Apollo Chapter has had a good year. At our meetings, we have demonstrated how to apply
make-up and what is needed for a make-up kit.
We have talked about the fire ascending and how to do it without the fuses. The officers for the
year are as follows:
HP William E. Channell Scribe C. Brooks Harper
King John Duck Secretary/Treasurer Larry E. Byrd
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC RELATIONS
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
The Public Relations Committee functions at the pleasure of the Grand Chapter.
Therefore it can take on many tasks not yet considered as its responsibility. This is the one
committee that its identity can change easily and is resilient to the needs applied to it.
The Committee wishes to issue a Blanket, "THANK YOU' for all who have, in any way,
assisted this Capitular year. We are all in this together. Every Chapter member is connected and
responsible for Public Relations.
We provide a Table at Grand Chapter:
A.-----For the exchange of e-mail Addresses.
B.-----For the listing of Petitions to Membership in Ohio Chapter of Research.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter92
C.-----For the listing of Petitions to Membership in the Ohio Lodge of Research.
D.-----Excite Masonic Leaders to capture Special family meetings on
camera and publish.
E.-----Inspire News Paper coverage for all Special Masonic Functions.
F,-----We furnish Certificates to the Grand High Priest, to present to each of the Distinguished
Service Awardees.
Each year the Grand High Priest selects a Couple to receive: pictures, magazine, and News
Paper articles of the total Capitular year. They oversee the completion of an appropriate
Scrapbook, showing an eye sketch of the History of this 2008 year. It will be their responsibility
to care for the Presentation of this Book, to the Grand High Priest and his Lady, during the Grand
Session.
If you have an opportunity to thank the members of this Committee at Grand Chapter, please
do so. They will be working several areas to make the Grand Session a success.
Respectfully submitted,
Glen L. Opp, Grand Fraternal Correspondent, Chairman
REAFFIRMATION SUNDAY REPORT
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
Our annual Reaffirmation Observance was held on October 28. This Program was started in
1957 as a request of the General Grand Chapter that each local Chapter would attend Church
together to affirm their faith in God. Ohio, over the years, has developed its own program and
date and today we gather as a District Family and we stress our support of our various benevolent
causes. . The following is a report of our stewardship:
Dist Chapters Attendance Offering Cause________
1 3 12 $45.00 Adopt America
2 6 24 $17.00 R.A.R.A.
3 14 56 $87.00 Royal Arch Foundation.
4 10 44 $105.00 Royal Arch Foundation
5 5 54 $150.00 RAF / RARA/ OMH
6 10 72 $110.00 RAF / OMH
7 8 25 $66.00 Adopt America
8 8 30 $86.00 Adopt America
9 8 38 $33.80 RARA/OMH
10 9 39 $123.00 RAF
11 9 56 $171.00 Adopt America
13 6 46 $65.00 RAF
14 6 27 $60.00 RARA
15 4 12 $30.00 RARA / Adopt America
16 8 45 $52.50 RAF
17 3 20 $20.00 RARA
18 6 22 $80.00 Adopt America
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 93
19 10 38 $68.00 RARA
20 7 29 $140.00 Adopt America
140 687 $1469.30
Report submitted by
Rev. F. Raymond Sharritts, Grand Chaplain & Necrologist
REPORT of the RITUAL COMMITTEE
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
Your Ritual Committee continues to seek input from Companions throughout the State on
changes that they feel should be made to update the Ritual. Responses to our requests for
suggestions have been very few. The Committee recommends that should a reprinting become
necessary prior to the completion of our work, we recommend a small number of Rituals be
printed to cover the needs of the Chapters.
Respectfully submitted,
Donald L. Losasso, Grand Scribe, Chairman F. Raymond Sharritts, Grand Chaplain
Robert J. Draye, Grand King Jeffrey L. Addis, DDGHP, 16th District
Steven A. Duncan, PGHP Joseph J. Orosz, PDDGHP, 16th District
GRAND HISTORIAN’S REPORT
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
As we are all aware, the events connected to the year-long celebration of the Bicentennial of the
establishment of the Grand Lodge of Ohio have stirred interest in Freemasonry. Lanterns and re-
enactments, parades and time capsules…all have revived the spirit of the Craft.
Scarcely a day goes by that the brethren do not receive announcements of new activities
requesting their participation. From the dirt biker to the stamp collector, from the golfer to the
webmaster, Masons of all ages and interests find themselves able to take advantage of events which
interest them.
Even the media, which had long ignored our gentle fraternity, has decided it can provide stories
worth repeating. Lodges that were on the brink of extinction, have discovered new methods of
renewing and promoting their existence.
Your Grand Historian was requested to address the Bicentennial Banquet of the Tenth Masonic
District at Lima. There we shared the spotlight with Brother Howie Damron who has
enthusiastically become the leading ambassador for the Craft through has appealing and heart-felt
country songs. This year, we learned that Baseball Hall of Famer Ernie Banks is an honored Prince
Hall Mason.
Interest in joining appears to be increasing. Young men are finding our way of life a welcome
change from the materialistic world. They are taking advantage of the opportunities to enrich their
lives through active participation in Freemasonry. In this
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter94
way, they will contribute toward seeing that our history will continue to be worthy of study.
Historians are always on the lookout for new ideas. They like to study new plans and new projects
because they know that today’s ideas will be tomorrow’s history. Norman G. Lincoln,
Grand Historian
OHIO CHAPTER OF RESEARCH REPORT
To the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, Officers and Companions of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio.
This year started with our Annual Meeting on Saturday, March 29, 2008. The reports of
various committees were received which can be read in the Proceedings of the Chapter of
Research for Year 2008.
The Officers elected for a two-year term are:
High Priest ……………… Theodore M. Graybill
King …………………….. Jerry C. Crawford
Scribe …………………… Paschal A. King, Jr.
Treasurer ……………….. Louis S. VanSlyck
Secretary ………………... Dale G. Ray, Jr.
Captain of the Host ……… Kermit V. Zimmerman
Principal Sojourner ……… Steven A. Duncan
The Second Convocation was held at Cambridge Chapter #52, Cambridge Ohio June 28, 2008.
The meeting was cut short as the Lodge Room rug had been commercially cleaned and was still
wet. We had no Air Conditioning in any other room and being unusually hot we adjourned early.
We plan another Convocation for this year on December 6, 2008.
The Chapter Library at the Masonic Home is now in a basement room. Visits to the Library
can be arranged. Contact: Norman G. Lincoln, P.O. Box 454, Eaton, O 45320-0454. Telephone
937-456-6859) or email: [email protected].
Currently we have 32 Active members, 225 Associate Members, 72 Chapters and Mark Lodges
and 9 Library & Associations for a total membership of 336.
Associate Members may be any Royal Arch Mason in good standing in a Regular Chapter
chartered by the Grand Chapter of Ohio. To become an Active Member you must be nominated
by an Active Member. The nomination shall contain evidence of satisfactory Masonic research,
submitted in writing to the Secretary with lists of any other particular abilities and qualifications.
We would remind all Companions they are welcome to attend our Convocations which are held
at locations around the state. When there is one held in your area, please feel free to join us for the
afternoon. You will enjoy it. We also solicit papers for presentation at our convocations. Contact
your DDGHP for details on where to send your papers for preview and presentation. To receive
our Annual Proceedings, you may become a member. Petitions are $8.00 and Dues are $8.00 a
year.
Respectfully Submitted,
Theodore M. Graybill, High Priest
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 95
REPORT OF THE GRAND FRATERNAL CORRESPONDENT
This is my Fourteenth Opportunity to bring you many of the Masonic activities from around
the world and the news next door. I also bring my thinking and observations from what I have
gleaned from the overall readings and reviews.
There has been a dramatic decline in the receiving of Proceedings from other Grand
Jurisdictions. It is suggested by a large number of Grand Jurisdictions to only send a CD. Many
will only send a CD, after they have received one from a Grand Jurisdiction. We (Ohio) probably
should not receive any, as Ohio has not published for a number of years.
However, your Reporter is confident he will continue to receive a number of proceedings that will
give good quality information about the World Masonic Happenings
We will initiate an aggressive pursuit to establish connections in each of the eighty-three Grand
Jurisdictions Ohio recognizes. This is not an impossible task, for those fervent, zealous, and
creative Grand Representatives who are willing to take advantage of the plan of the Grand High
Priest He has invited your Grand Fraternal Correspondent to have a packet ready to hand to each
Grand Representative at Grand Chapter. In it will be a letter from the Grand High Priest thanking
you for your successful year. It will contain
A.- A complete listing of the expectations of an Ohio Grand Representative.
B.- It will also have suggested ways to accomplish contact with your Counterpart.
C.- What to do, if you plan to attend their Grand Session.
D.- What to do if he plans to attend Ohio Grand Session.
E.- What to do to satisfy the Grand Fraternal Correspondent Report to your satisfaction. (Yes,
your findings will be in Glen's Report and all will read it.)
F.- There will be a TIME LINE for you to follow for the Ohio Grand Chapter year in the packet.
G.- Last, there will be a SURVEY for each Grand Representative to follow and answer, as it will
assist them for a complete report. You are going to enjoy the contact and the newfound
fellowship. You, giving your findings is much more accurate, than Glen reading and reporting. So
I am anxious for the THREE (3) of us: You, your Counterpart, and Glen!
Reading the Proceedings from a number of the Grand Jurisdictions, I can state unconditionally,
"Many Chairman do not have a report to read or hand in to show any mark of time spent as a
Chairman!" Why is this allowed, time after time? Well it is called mediocrity! We have learned it,
and learned it well.
Time after time, I have read the Address of a Grand High Priest with his praise to the Chapters
in the Grand Jurisdiction. Then in a matter of a few sentences later, he mentions the number of
Chapters that can no longer do their Degrees. He mentions a number of Chapters that will not
respond to questions from the Grand Secretary. He makes it known how many Chapters have not
been able to open without Ritual Books open. Need I continue? I think not! I could give much
more.
We are in what I call, the "FEAR FACTOR SYNDROME." That is when a Leader is actually
afraid to state the TRUTH! Someone may get upset. A Chapter just may tell the Grand Chapter to,
"Look elsewhere, but leave us alone!" Well, being left alone is how they got in the slumbering
Chapter movement. Yes all Grand Jurisdictions probably have
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter96
SLUMBERING CHAPTERS. Please be very quiet, they may wake up and do something to
survive. Mediocrity is abounding in and out of our Masonic walls. Our Degrees are very opposed
to this slothful attitude of acceptance. Yes, TRUTH, at times does hurt, but it is good. We all have
our work cut out for us, and we need to labor NOW!
I thank all who have in any way contributed or assisted in this Grand Chapter Report. There is a
Louis S. VanSlyck paragraph I wish to copy at this time and I am sure you reading it will explain it:
"Most of you know, but new readers of this report need to be
informed: The Grand Chapter of Ohio currently recognizes eighty-three other Grand Jurisdictions
with which we exchange Grand Representatives.
The Grand Fraternal Correspondent's primary responsibility is to report on their activities with
items of interest or significance, although other Masonic news is not to be excluded. Not all
Jurisdictions publish Proceedings on an Annual basis. Some do not publish at all and delays in
printing or for other reasons make information irregularly available from a few. Additional material
comes from various newsletters, Proceedings of Grand Councils, Grand Commanderies, Grand
Representatives near Ohio, and various other Masonic publications." Again, I thank you, Rt. Ex.
Comp. Louis.
We must grab every opportunity that show's possibilities. I want to tell you a story of
"Possibility." The case was about to begin. The judge asked, "Where is the defendant?" One of the
jurors stood up. "I'm the defendant." "What are you doing in the jury box?" "They brought me in
with the rest of them." "You cannot be the defendant and on the jury too." The defendant smiled
and said, "I figured I was a little to lucky!"
Opportunity, yes take this opportunity to look over my labor of Masonic love, and have a better
understanding of what is happening in the Chapter world. Believe it, my Companions, I again have
done the best that I can. I wish for you to enjoy Glen's Masonic: Gems, Jewels, Tools, and Rules!
Remember, "Motivation is what gets you started, Habit is what keeps you going."
ARKANSAS - This was the 157th Grand Convocation of the Grand Chapter. They held their
meeting in North Little Rock on March 8-9-10. 2007. All three York Rite Organizations meet at the
same time and location. They started with a combined Service.
This Jurisdiction has a Blue Lodge program that the Chapter Members take to Lodge as an
introduction into the York Rite. One Chapter received 13 Exaltations in 2007 from this Program.
They have 20 Chapters with 1,865 Members. All Chapters were present for this Convocation. They
Registered 83 Members, 12 Grand Officers and 10 Past Grand High Priests.
MEPGHP O'Neill, Grand Secretary/Recorder of Texas spoke of a Recruiting York Rite Program
in Texas that had success. He stated they revised the Pat Master Degree ritual to avoid any
reference to the Mark Master or Royal Arch Degree. During the year they conferred over 300 Past
Master Degrees on Worshipful Masters, Senior and Junior Wardens of the Blue Lodges. Of the 300
degrees conferred, 100 then completed York Rite.
BRAZIL - Glen received a magazine from the Grand Lodge of Brazil. It contains many writings
of Masonic Authors of Masonic history. I will relate just a section of one story.
"Wilkes was born in Clerkenwell, England in 1725. His unorthodox ways of living, his
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 97
siding with Paine and Franklin on the war in America, whose failure he prophesied, his many
imbroglios with Justice, Parliament and Crown brought him the opprobrium of those in power but
also the esteem of the people in general.
Wilkes published an anti-Scottish magazine, the North Briton, whose number 45 led to his
arrest and to a search into his house under a General Warrant, which gives the authorities unlimited
power to arrest any unnamed person on an unspecified charge. The populace took his side in
opposition to this injustice and the number 45 was daubed all over the town. Wilkes was made an
outlaw and went to France. On his return he was again
arrested on a trumped up charge of pornography. It was when in prison that he was elected a Mason
by the Brethren of Jerusalem Lodge of Clerkenwell.
There was a comic follow up of his acquittal: he was elected and expelled from Parliament, to
be re-elected again, several times. The King simply loathed him, calling him, "That Devil
Wilken's". But whatever the King’s opinion, Wilkens became the Mayor of London. He retired
from public life in 1790 to live quietly with his unmarried daughter, to whom he had been a
devoted father and who paid all his debts after he died."
BRITISH COLUMBIA & YUKON - Working in the Degrees with your Blue Lodge Members
is where you will get new Chapter Members. The Grand High Priest is very adamant in his
philosophy on this and states it openly.
They show a membership of 1,832 Companions. This Convocation was held in Nanaimo, B.C.
CALIFORNIA - Ohio's new Grand Representative to this Grand Jurisdiction is Rt. Ex.
Companion J. Keith Green. He has done the Right Thing Right! He sent a letter of introductory and
then pushed to receive a reply, both thru his Counterpart and myself. I will show you the
communication so all can learn. (This is the exact procedure Past Grand .High .Priest. Wayne Dill
recommends! Hey, it works! Thanks Keith! )
January 21, 2008
Marvin V. Richardson
1020 Johnston Street
Napa, CA 94558
Dear Ex. Companion Richardson;
My name is Keith Green; I have been given the honor to serve as the Grand Representative of
California near the Grand Chapter of Ohio. I greatly look forward to corresponding with you and
learning much more about the Grand chapter of California in the coming years.
I convey the fraternal greeting of our Grand High priest this year M.E. Companion Garis E.
Pugh and our Grand Secretary M.E. Companion Dale G. Ray, PGHP.
I live in a small town in Northwest Ohio just a few miles from the shores of Lake Erie.
Graytown is about 20 miles east of Toledo located between state routes 163 and 2.
I have been to California a few times, I have a sister that lives in Clovis and my oldest daughter
played college softball in the Los Angeles area a couple of times.
My Masonic background include: (He follows with his Masonic Resume)
Our Grand Convocation was originally set to be held in Columbus, centrally located in the state,
however, the hotel cancelled our contract – they decided to close and remodel their facility – the
same time we were supposed to be there! Our Grand High Priest Jim
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter98
McDonald looked to Toledo, near his home district – he was able to find hotel space but no
meeting areas. He was finally able to secure the Kalahari resort in Sandusky which is both a huge
family water park and conference center. It was a fantastic facility with great accommodations and
meeting rooms.
This year, legislation was presented and passed that each Chapter must prepare and provide their
inspecting officer an audit report of the Chapter finances, along with supporting bank statements
and other documents. Although a generic audit report is sent out by the Grand Secretary each year
it had never been mandatory that a copy be provided to the inspecting officer for his files. There
have been several incidences in recent years where a secretary or treasurer has misappropriated
funds. Some of these may have been caught had proper audit been conducted each year.
Our Grand Master, Michael Himes, is a strong supporter of the York Rite and is the first Knight,
York Cross of Honor in the Grand Lodge line in many years. On March 31st, he directed that each
of the 26 Masonic districts hold a One-day Grand Master’s class where a man can become a Mason
in just one day. He further directed that the Mark Master degree to be conferred immediately
following the Master Mason degree on any and all candidates who chose to join the York Rite that
day. Over three hundred fifty new Mark Masters were created that day. Many completed the
balance of their York Rite work at several York Rite festivals held around the state in April and
May. Others chose to complete their work in the Chapter, Councils and Commanderys. There are
another 2000 new Master Masons who did not petition the York Rite that day. The challenge now
is to have our Chapters follow up with a personal contact and to sell the York Rite. We have a
great opportunity in Ohio to build on this year’s successes.
I have enclosed a copy of the Annual Address and reports from the Grand Chapter session I
hope you find them interesting and it will provide you a better insight into Masonry here in Ohio.
My address is: 2014 N. Elliston-Trowbridge Road
Graytown, OH 43432
E-mail address: [email protected]
Phone: (419) 862-2063
My best wishes to you in California, and look forward to a long exchange of information.
Fraternally yours.
J. Keith Green
CONNECTICUT - This was the 209th Anniversary Convocation. It was held in Hartford on
June 2, 2007. The Credential Committee reported a possible vote of 71.
The Fraternal Correspondence Report is much the same as previous years. They almost wish it
was eliminated. Previous Chairmen have stated the same. It is reported that the Grand
Representatives are not doing anything and not completing their duties. They do not have any
Grand Representative assigned for Ohio.
The Ohio Grand Representative is our very dedicated Rt. Ex. Comp. Wing Fun Chow. He has
spoken about the absence of a Grand Representative to me. We have agreed we will continue to
visit and communicate with the Grand Secretary until a New
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 99
Representative is willing to perform his duties. Interesting enough is the fact we continue to
receive their up to date Proceedings for reporting.
The Grand Secretary reports having 19 Chapters with a total Membership of 1,801 at the end of
March 1907. They list 237 Members exempt of Grand Dues or Per-Capita.
This Grand Chapter was organized on May 17, 1798, they received their Charter from
Washington Chapter in New York City. Since March 6, 1775, when a man called Prince Hall was
raised a Master Mason in Irish Constitution Military Lodge No. 441 in Boston, Lodges, Grand
Lodges and Masonry itself trod a perilous path of acceptance. This is rarely more evident than after
Lodges and American Grand Lodges were stricken from the rolls in 1813 after the merger of the
"Ancients and the Moderns" in England. This Grand Jurisdiction has outstanding relations with
Prince Hall Masons.
DELAWARE -
R.E.C. Glen L. Opp July 15, 2008
Grand Fraternal Correspondent
Sir, I send greetings to you and Lady Nancy from the Third Capitular District and I pray that this
communication will find both of you in good health and happiness.
This year I was unable to attend the 140th Annual Convocation of the Grand Chapter of
Delaware due to other Masonic commitments, but was able to receive their procedures presented
most graciously by their Grand Secretary, M.E.C. Franklin R. Townsend, PGHP.
140th ANNUAL CONVOCATION OF THE GRAND CHAPTER OF DELAWARE
The One Hundred Fortieth Annual Convocation of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of
Delaware was held at the Masonic Temple, 818 Market St., Wilmington, Delaware on Saturday,
March 8, 2008, A.D. 2538. The Grand Chapter was open at 1:00 p.m. by the Right Excellent
Grand King, H. Richard Hoffman, with a prayer from the Grand Captain of the Host, followed by
the Pledge to the Flag of our Nation. MEGHP Mark Irwin was escorted to the East, afforded Grand
Honors; proceeded to preside and had the introduction of the Grand Chapter Officers. The Grand
Secretary reported that a Constitutional number of Chapters were represented (there are only 7
chapters in the state).
The reports to follow were; approval of minutes of the 139th Annual Convocation, Admission of
Royal Arch Masons in good standing, Reception of Reports, Reports of Credentials, receiving of
Distinguished Visitors, Reception of the Representatives of the General Grand Chapter, Masonic
Leaders of Delaware, Grand Lodge of Delaware, etc…the list goes on.
Most Excellent Grand High Priest Mark E. Irwin’s remarks in part as follows; my esteemed and
distinguished Companions from our sister jurisdictions, we are most pleased that you could take
time to visit us in Delaware.
To the Companions of this Grand Chapter and others of the York Rite family, I extend my
deepest thanks for your wise advice. A year ago you entrusted me with the stewardship of this
Grand Chapter. It has been a most trying period in my life which has curtailed my ability to follow
through with all of my plans. In the past 2 years, I have lost my mother and had to help my father
(Rev. Irvin) who is declining rapidly. In addition, my lady Melanie underwent cancer surgery and
major facial reconstruction surgery in th
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter100
last few months. Although I was unable to fulfill all that I wanted, my pledge is to assist this
Grand Chapter in the future and to our incoming Grand High Priest, I will assist whatever way I
can.
Grand Representatives Commissioned
To continue the Grand Chapter’s participation in fraternal correspondence, I nominated the
following Companions as Grand Representative of the noted Grand jurisdiction near the Grand
Chapter of Delaware:
Wayne T. Slack………..Argentina
Wayne T. Slack………..Brazil
Gordon T. Kyle………..Florida
Mark E. Irwin………….Ohio
H. Richard Hoffman……Manitoba
Condition of The Rite
We were fortunate this year to have 20 exaltations in our jurisdiction. Much can be attributed to
the hard work of all the Companions in finding new members. In additions to the 12 Companions
who died, we had 17 suspensions. We need to find out why these Companions have lost interest in
their Chapters and correct the problems so that these losses can be eliminated. Congratulations to
Delta Chapter No. 6 who exalted 9 this year and showed an increase in membership of 5. Please
note that the Grand Chapter of Delaware has only 7 constituent chapters with a total membership of
approximately 461 Companions.
Recommendations
No. 1 Recommend that the recent Past Grand High Priest work with Annual Sessions
Committee to help clearly define their responsibilities. In addition, the term “revenue neutral”
needs to be defined.
No. 2 Recommend that the Past Grand High Priests work with the Leadership Committee to
develop a program to train the progressive line officers.
Report of the Grand Treasurer (in part)
The financial net worth of this Grand Chapter, including all of the 6 accounts, as of 1/31/08, is
$47,978.46 compared to $46,965.98 last year - a gain of $1,014.48 from last year.
Conclusion
M.E.G.H.P. Mark E. Irwin states; “that it has been a challenging couple of years in my family
life. I ask that you keep my father in your prayers”
At this time the Grand Chapter Officers were dully installed with H. Richard Hoffman to serve
as Most Excellent Grand High Priest of Delaware for 2008-9.
Fraternally submitted:
Henry A. Dodson, P.D.D.G.H.P., 3rd District.
GEORGIA - Doing some first of the year house cleaning and ran across the enclosed pre-
printed reports of the May 2007 Grand Chapter R. A. M. of Georgia. I don’t remember if I had sent
you a copy before or not. If I did then you can “deep six” or “round file” this copy.
My counterpart, M. E. Comp. Joe Turner, PGHP of Georgia, claimed that he had sent a copy but
I did not receive it at first. It seems as if he had dropped it in a mailbox shortly
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 101
after the conclusion of the Grand Lesson. However, he had failed to put sufficient postage on the
envelope. After a considerable delay, the postal service returned it to him and he then added more
postage and sent it on to me.
Recently, I received from our Grand Secretary, Dale G. Ray Jr. a computer disk with the Grand
Chapter, Grand Council, and Grand Commandery 2007 Proceedings of Georgia. Since I am
somewhat computer illiterate the disk has little meaning for me and would get no use. I wrote
Andy Lovelas and secured a hard copy, which is much more to my liking.
Would you care to have the computer disk? If so, I can mail it to you. Just let me know soon.
Have a good 2008. Hope to see you at Grand Chapter in October.
Carole and I are thinking of trying to go to the Grand Chapter of Florida to be held in late April
2008 at Lady Lake Florida, might prove interesting.
Extension: This is a letter sent to Glen from Arthur Ross.
The Grand Chapter RAM of Georgia convened in Macon, Georgia on 5 and 6 May 2008. On
Sunday evening May 4 a York Rite Banquet was held. The attendance at the banquet appeared to
be down a little but over last year.
Enclosed is a copy of the pre-printed reports, which will give you some information. Also
enclosed is a copy of the memorial service that was held for the York Rite Bodies on Sunday
afternoon May 4th. Grady Bozeman was a past Grand High Priest, a Past Grand Commander, the
Eminent Prior of Cherokee Rose Priory No. 18 at the time of his death. Eli A. Stafford was also a
Past Grand High Priest and the immediate Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Georgia.
Kerry Buchan was the Grand Marshall of the Grand Council R & SM of Georgia at the times of his
passing. Roy Jackson was a Past Grand Officer of one of the York Rite Bodies.
Bill No. 1 listed on the Jurisprudence Committee report was withdrawn. It would in effect have
separated the Grand Chapter meeting time from the remaining two York Rite Bodies.
The outgoing Grand High Priest Charles “Pete” Taylor had served as a Grand Commandery and
Grand Illustrious Master of the Grand Council R & SM of Georgia. With his term as Grand High
Priest he became “a three star general” having served a presiding officer of the three Grand York
Rite Bodies.
Most Excellent Companion D.W. Hendry, Sr. was elected to serve as the Grand High Priest for
the ensuing year of 2008-2009.
There were three (3) companions nominated for the station of the Master of the First Veil.
There were 275 ballots cast on the first ballot with no one receiving the necessary number of votes
for election. The lowest vote getter was then dropped from the slate and a second ballot taken. The
result of the second ballot was very close with only (250 votes) two vote’s difference. When the
final tally was reported the vote was 126 for the victor and 124 votes for the loser. William
Franklin Shepherd was declared the winner for the station of the Master of the First Veil.
All the remaining officers were advanced one station.
That about sums up the events of the Grand Chapter RAM of Georgia for the year 2007-2008.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter102
My counterpart Most Excellent Companion Joe Turner, PGHP of Georgia (1995-1996) is now
a Grand Officer in the Grand Commandery Knights Templar for the State of Georgia and most
likely will be advanced to the station of Grand Standard Bearer or the Junior Warden Station.
Fraternally and respectfully,
Arthur Ross
IDAHO - Hayden, Idaho was the setting for the 99th Annual Convocation. It was reported that
the membership of the 13 Chapters were 629 Companions. They experienced a loss of 49 this past
year.
This Convocation was held April 21, 2007.
INDIANA - Indianapolis was the setting for the 162nd. Annual Convocation held April 25,
2007. In the address of the Grand High Priest, he turns into a real COACH. His attitude in wanting
leadership brought to the local Chapters is not found often. He backs this by showing his special
Programs that have been initiated this year.
Yes, they had three Festivals and just one of them brought in 70 new members in the
Indianapolis area. He held Executive Committee Meetings to keep Officers informed and able to
receive answers to their questions.
His Retention Program is in the initial works at this time and is in the able hands of Grand
Scribe, Kris Phillips. This program will happen and the other Grand Jurisdictions should watch
closely.
The Grand High Priest has a NEW LEADERSHIP MODEL; it is new and most novel. Chapters
having Leadership Problems ask Grand Chapter to assign a Grand Officer to the Chapter. Grand
Chapter creates 6 to 8 new Companions into one targeted Chapter via York Rite Class. They then
assign and install them as Officers in the targeted Chapter, and place them under supervision of an
Officer of the Grand Chapter and Royal Arch Deputy who attends each Stated Convocation. Past
Chapter Officers will fill in on several stations, and contribute as mentors. Hey Chapter world, pay
attention to this new Innovation in Indiana!
The Grand High Priest stated, "Progress in any organization can be hindered by looking through
a rearview mirror."
In the report of the Grand Secretary we find 60 Chapters with a total Membership of 5,639
Companions. This Grand Secretary tells it as it is with his secretaries. He noted 17 Chapters did not
have any exaltations. He also shows only 23 secretaries have submitted or returned the Membership
list. He also states that 48 Chapters have reported no increase of membership. This Grand Secretary
is also the M. E. Grand High Priest of the General Grand Chapter International. How does he do the
TIME MANAGEMENT for all he does?
ISRAEL - Leon Zeldis has been the Editor of "The Israeli Freemason" magazine for almost two
decades. He has printed his last. It is a very colorful and attractive magazine.
Grand Master, Itzhak Zino, is the 30th Grand Master of this Grand Lodge. On October 28, 1953,
was the day when all Masonic Lodges in Israel united together to create the Grand Lodge of the
State of Israel
One of the articles in this Magazine is "That Old Masonic Buzz." It is a story using the Symbol
of the Beehive. It tells that the industrious bee extracting sweetness from every flower and storing
up in their "properly tiled" and darkened dwelling, is an excellent
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 103
illustration of Masonic Life. The Author finishes with, "Freemasonry is like a Queen Bee whose
workers have built a hive and now search for the nectar of choice flowers to bring back and turn
into honey for the nourishment of all mankind.
Glen received this material from his Master, Richard Dean Elder, as he is a member of a Lodge
in Israel. My Master is wheelchair confined and he was a member of the First ONE-DAY CLASS,
in Ohio. This material was found in the 2007 Magazine.
KANSAS - In the Report of the Grand High Priest he states his desire to have some type of
Leadership Training for the Officers. He mentions that many of our members
become High Priest and never have some of the ideas necessary to be successful in the Position.
This was the 143rd Annual Convocation and it was held on April 3, 2008. They have a total of
41 Chapters with a total of 2,601 Companions.
The Fraternal Relations and Correspondents Committee has a very good report listed. Not many
Proceedings were mailed to them. It seems there is a lax way of getting information available,
much less having it mailed. In other words a Grand Chapter has to Print before they can MAIL.
Glen received the following from our Ohio Grand Representative to Kansas:
Grand Chapter Royal Arch Masons of Kansas
April 2, & 3, 2008
Cindy and I left Chillicothe, Ohio at 3:30 p.m. on April 1st and except for three brief stops for
food and fuel we traveled through the night. We arrived in Wichita, Kansas at the Best Western
Hotel at 5:30 a.m. (4:30 Central time) April 2nd. We checked in and rested until Noon. I then went
to the Courtyard and registered in with the Grand Secretary, received my information packet. I
spent the rest of the afternoon checking out the facilities and meeting people.
We attended the Divine Services of the York Rite of Freemasonry of Kansas at 7:00 p.m. that
evening. It was a very interesting evening. In Kansas when they remember the departed, they
don’t just read the names, and they ask the attendees for what they remember of the departed
companions, several imparted stories of Duty, Strength, and Honor. But there were also amusing
stories that made everyone remember the good times. Cindy & I continued to meet and greet
people who were very happy to have us with them.
The following morning April 3rd was the beginning of the Grand Chapter Session, again the
departure from what happens in Ohio and how things are done in Kansas were striking. There was
a Public Opening of Grand Chapter, where anyone can come in and observe the proceedings. The
Grand Officers were introduced and given Public Grand Honors, Clapping Three times Three.
When the dignitaries had been introduced (including me), the public opening was completed and
the ladies were then asked to leave. The closed session then started. The Grand High Priest and his
officers opened the Chapter to begin the session. The Private Grand Honors consisted of all the
signs of the four Royal Arch Degrees, with a few tossed in that I did not recognize. When the
Grand Master of Masons of Kansas was introduced the Grand Honors consisted of all the signs of
the symbolic lodge, again with a couple of signs I did not recognize. When the opening was
completed the business session began, which took about an hour. I was then invited to speak to the
assembled companions; I brought them the greeting of M.E.C. Pugh, GHP
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter104
and the 18,000 plus members of the Great State of Ohio. Please note the entire Grand Chapter
meeting consisted of 78 companions (me included). I also presented the Grand High Priest and
Grand Master with The Ohio GHP pin and explained the significance and the GHP program. I also
extended greeting to the Grand Illustrious Master and Grand Commander from their counterparts in
Ohio though I wasn’t authorized to do so.
Then the election of officers was held. The Grand Chapter members elected the Grand Scribe to
serve as the Grand High Priest in two years. The officers below the Captain of the Host are
appointed, and the rest are elected except the Grand King and Grand High Priest.
After Lunch the 2008 – 2009 Grand Officers were installed and photos were taken. The session
ended at 3:00 p.m. April 2nd.
Cindy and I enjoyed the hospitality of the ladies and companions of Kansas and were asked to
return next year.
Respectfully submitted,
R. Keith O’Dell DDGHP, Grand Representative of Kansas in Ohio
LOUISIANA - They have a new Grand Representative to be assigned to Ohio, his name is
Raymond Verret. His name will be read and need to be voted on at the Ohio Convocation this
October.
The Grand Secretary reported at this 160th Grand Session that they have 30 Chapters with a
total membership of 2,547 Companions. The Fraternal Correspondents report in this set of
Proceedings has several paragraphs and states no reasonable material this year.
MAINE - This Grand Jurisdiction is protecting themselves. They have appointed an Assistant
Grand Secretary and as well as an Assistant Grand Treasurer. They are to be trained and ready if an
emergency arises. It was stated that 47 per cent of all the Officers in the Constituent Chapters were
Past High Priests.
This Annual Convocation was the 182nd and it was held April 28, 2007. In the Grand Secretary
report he stated a membership of 4,059 Companions with a loss of 175.
MEXICO - This Grand Jurisdiction is represented near Ohio by our Past Grand High Priest,
MWC Jerry Crawford. This was the 45th Grand Session for Mexico.
They are busy with Chapters U.D. and have an increase of Membership. One thing for sure the
General Grand Chapter watches over their Chapter Jurisdictions very closely.
Mexico received a copy of the Ohio Proceedings as well as 47 other Jurisdiction Proceedings.
They publish what they call a SYNTHESIS of the Convocation each year, but on the third year they
Publish a complete 3 year Proceeding.
During the Annual Convocation each District Advisor gives a very precise report of the
activities and strengths as well as weaknesses of each Chapter. When Glen received this
Proceeding, I noticed the word "CLANDESTINE" Printed across the upper area of the face of the
Proceedings.
Inside were three (3) Letters of explanation. These letters were written by the Grand Chapter of
Mexico, the General Grand Chapter and a letter from our Grand Secretary in Ohio. Reading the
letters and observing the dates, so I knew the sequence of each letter written, I received a well-
balanced Masonic Education in International Literature. This was my first experience with this
action and I have had this Position for 14 years. (Hey, I am learning a lot!) Ohio Grand Chapter, I
have a great amount of Respect for our Grand
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 105
Secretary. He has protected me very clearly, to the correct. I thank you MEC Dale G. Ray, Jr.,
Grand Secretary.
MINNESOTA - This Grand Jurisdiction has some very Scholarly Members in every area of the
Masonic Body. I could give some exciting times for me in my visits to various Masonic functions
in Minnesota. I wish only to bring a small sketch of a New item to all of my readers, but not new to
Minnesota members.
They have an arm of Public Relations that will be my target for your pleasure. It is the,
"MINESOTA MASONIC HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND MUSEUM", I wish to introduce you to.
"The mission of the MMHSM shall be the collection, preservation and dissemination of knowledge
about the history of Freemasonry and its concordant, antecedent, descendent, or derivative
organizations and activities, and to relate that history to that of the state of Minnesota."
From this was given an idea of allowing all the Masons in Minnesota to have equal opportunity
to see the Museum Artifacts. So the new vision was to have a Traveling Exhibit. This was
introduced to Grand Lodge in 1997. The very first exhibit was on September 14 1996, in Chisholm,
Minnesota, was provided for the Iron Range Masonic Fundraiser at the Chisholm Junior High
School Auditorium.
It was fantastic and well received by non-Masons. The exhibit has been taken as far north as
Big Fork, west to Madison, and to many Lodges in southern Minnesota. They considered it an
honor to represent the Museum at the George Washington National Masonic Memorial in
Alexandria, Virginia, with the exhibit depicting "150 Years of Masonry in Minnesota.
It was the year of Grand Master Terry Tilton and Deputy Grand Master Neil Neddermeyer.
(This was the same year MWB Thomas Reynolds and the Ohio Grand Lodge Officers, held a
successful ONE DAY CLASS.) The traveling Exhibit has also appeared at the International Peace
Gardens on the United States and Canada border.
It has now become a TOOL taking part in all Communities it travels. Through this MASONIC
TOOL they have gained many new Masons throughout Minnesota.
MISSOURI - This is a Jurisdiction that has tried the York Rite Session in ONE DAY, and are
now returning to YORK RITE Session as a day each. It is three days long this 2008 year.
The Ohio Grand Representative attends practically every year, but this year it has created a
problem in length. Rt. Ex. Companion, Ill. Bro. Robert Wise and his charming attractive bride will
be attending next year. They will use this as a springboard travel, to other places, as he will be the
Eminent Prior of Ohio Priory.
This Jurisdiction, as well as Michigan, has found a niche in advertising that pays dividends.
Ohio checked in on this sometime past and never followed through as a moneymaker to offset
expenses at the Grand Session. It is a Program Book with Ads.
Any person, business, or organization may sponsor an ad in the book. Generally, the program
book raises upwards of Thousands of Dollars per year. This can help offset much in expenses for a
total Session. Is it time for someone from Ohio to take a determined effort to see how successful
this would be for Ohio?
Their Grand Session will be held in Jefferson City on May 13 through 18, 2008, with most
meals on your own. The Grand Secretary noted there had been some discussion as
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter106
to moving toward Permanent Membership Cards. They would issue a credit type membership Card
and place yearly stickers on it. The card would have 10 boxed areas to receive a sticker for each
year. This card would last for 10 years. Each sticker would bear a different year and color on it.
Each year the Secretary just forwards the new sticker to the member. The member places it on his
card.
NEWFOUNDLAND / LABRADOR - Glen noticed that West Virginia Fraternal Relations
Committee read where this Grand Jurisdiction did not receive any Proceedings from West Virginia.
Well, Newfoundland had not appointed a Grand Representative to West Virginia.
This is a sharp Committee, as they called a meeting of the Grand Secretary and the Grand High
Priest to listen to their findings. As it now stands both have a very good exchange. This shows how
persistence pays!
NEW JERSEY - The Credentials Committee reported 16 Most Excellent High Priests, 6
Excellent Kings, 6 Excellent Scribes, and 73 Past High Priests. This included 12 Proxies duly
submitted
Randall "with 2 L's" B. Craven, is the Grand Representative to this Jurisdiction. He has been a
most faithful in his Jurisdictional visits to Ontario but his has not visited recently. They have 26
Chapters with a membership of 2,299 Companions. They experienced an increase of 84
Companions over last Returns. (OUTSTANDING!)
The Council of Anointed High Priest Reported that 19 Candidates had petitioned. They were
Received, Anointed, Consecrated, and set apart to the Holy Order of High Priesthood.
NORTH CAROLINA - Ohio was well represented by Past Grand High Priest, M.E.C. Steven
Duncan for Grand Chapter. We also had Rt. Ill. Comp. Fred A Boggs, Deputy Grand Master of the
Grand Council of Ohio in attendance as well.
In the remarks of M.E. General Grand High Priest, Larry E. Gray, much information was given
in many areas of note. He reminded all that a new DVD for Royal Arch Research Assistance will
be coming out in a very short time. The New DVD is shorter in that it is about 10 to 15 minutes.
A Resolution to raise the Per Capita by 55 cents, this would be a modest $1.00 per member. This
will be voted on at the Triennial in Indianapolis in August. Our General Grand High Priest has had
a very huge impact on Masonry during his total tenure of Outstanding Leadership. He is truly a
visionary Leader and can communicate his thinking for the future of Masonry in this exciting new
Century.
The Credential Committee stated that 97 Companions were registered. Of the 28 Chapters in this
Grand Jurisdiction, 21 were represented at this Grand Chapter. The total possible vote at this Grand
Session is 127. The Grand Secretary shows a Membership of 4,182 Companions as of December
31, 2007.
NOVA SCOTIA - The One Hundred and Thirty-eighth Annual Convocation of the Grand
Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Nova Scotia was held in the Best Western Glengarry Hotel, 150
Willow Street, Truro, Nova Scotia, on May 4th and 5th, 2007. Twenty of the twenty-one
Constituent Chapters were represented with 143 Companions of our own Jurisdiction registered,
along with fourteen guests from other Jurisdictions. Ten concordant bodies were represented.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 107
A joint Divine Service of Worship with the Supreme Grand Council Eastern Jurisdiction of
Canada, Royal and Select Masters, was held at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 3rd, conducted by the
Grand Chaplain.
At the Board of General Purposes meeting during the afternoon of Friday, May 4th, prior to the
Grand Chapter session, Companion Timothy R. Outerbridge was re-appointed Grand Treasurer for
the fourth year and Companion Lawrin C. Armstrong was re-appointed Grand Secretary for the
twenty-ninth year.
On the evening of Friday, May 4th one hundred and twelve Excellent Companions shared in the
Order of High Priesthood, in the Best Western Glengarry Hotel, Truro, Nova Scotia. The Order
was conferred by Most Excellent Companion Earle C. MacDonald, Most Excellent President of the
Order. Fourteen candidates received the Order. The joint Grand High Priest’s/Grand Master’s
Reception followed the conferring of the Order.
On Saturday the Convocation was presided over by the Grand High Priest, Most Excellent
Companion E. Carson Jackson.
Companion J. Hugh D. Palmer was elected as Grand High Priest; Companion James E. Taylor
was elected as Grand King and Companion Terence S. Read was elected Grand Scribe.
The installation ceremony to install the three elected officers, the District Grand Superintendents
and a number of the appointed officers, was conducted by Most Excellent Companion Gerald A.
Riley, assisted by a team of Most Excellent Past Grand High Priests and others. The remaining
Grand Officers, not present, will be installed at a later date.
The joint Grand High Priest’s/Grand Master’s formal Banquet was held in the Best Western
Glengarry Hotel, Truro, Nova Scotia, at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 5th.
The ladies were in attendance at the Friday evening Grand High Priest’s Reception following
the Order of High Priesthood and the Saturday formal banquet. During the day on Saturday, they
were treated to a program which included a luncheon.
The One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Annual Convocation will be held on May 2nd and 3rd, 2008,
in Truro, Nova Scotia.
These are the findings from the 2007 Proceedings for the One Hundred Thirty-eighth Annual
Convocation held in Truro, Nova Scotia, on the 4th and 5th of May.
This shows some of the forward thinking and then acting on an idea that is fruitful from our
Past Grand High Priest, MEC Wayne Dill. Through his supervision our Grand Chapter has a
complete set of music for all the Degree work. Nova Scotia has just reinvented the wheel as they
just finished their Music Program and has it for each Chapter at $10.00 a CD. They have gone
beyond Ohio in that they have music for Re-dedications, and Grand Chapter Convocations. They
plan in the future to have music for Installation Ceremonies as well as music to be used at-ease
times in Chapter. Their music contains vocal with accompanied Specialists singing the various
Odes.
This Grand Secretary has served in his present office for 29 continuous years. He has stated he
will retire from Office in May of 2009 that makes him the longest serving Grand Secretary of
continuing years His report shows a Membership of 939 Members. This is the fifteenth year of
experiencing a loss. The accumulated net reduction in members has been a total of 1,540 since
1991, when we last had a modest increase in members and the number stood at 2,472. He then
states they had 802 members left in 1994 to form the New
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter108
Grand Chapter of Newfoundland and Labrador, it still means they have had a net loss of 738
members in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island since December 31, 1991. This represents more
than 44.1 % of the membership of that date.
In the section of the Grand Fraternal Relations Committee I found the following. "In the
fullness of time, the name of a Grand Representative who does not attend Grand Chapter, or fails to
submit reasons in writing acceptable to the committee, and/or who does not respond to the survey
will be forwarded to the Grand High Priest with a recommendation for replacement.
They exchange Grand Representatives with seventy-eight Grand Jurisdictions. The Committee
Survey was sent to each Grand Representative and its return was only 75 % when the Committee
expected 100 % from this distinguished set of Masons.
Their Legislation change was about the Members being dropped for various reasons. They
changed the words, "Registered or by Certified mail" to "Regular Postal Mail Service." This will
bring a savings to all.
The Credentials Committee made the following report: "Twenty of the twenty-one Constituent
Chapters were represented by Officers and/or Past High Priests. One Hundred and Ten members,
thirty-three Royal Arch Companions, and fourteen Companions from other Jurisdictions, were
registered, for a total of one hundred and fifty-seven."
OHIO, PRINCE HALL - The Grand Representative to the Grand Chapter of Prince Hall near
Ohio is Rt. Ex. Companion Rev. F. Raymond Sharritts. The Grand Chaplain of the Ohio Grand
Chapter and if you read all of this report, he is much, much more!
“The 140th Convocation opened with a Service of Worship and then the opening of the Royal
Arch Degree and the Grand High Priest was presented. Most Excellent Charles V. Williams, III
presided over this session of the Prince Hall Convocation.
In his Allocution, he thanked God for his strength over this past year. He recognized the Grand
Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Ohio and spoke of our Brotherly love that continues to prevail.
He spoke of the state of the nation, the United States Economy and the State of the Order. He
reminded those of the Convocation of the issues facing the Africa-American Community. The
Necrology report followed with a Service of Remembrance. In his Recommendations he asked that
both PGHP James McDonald and Grand High Priest Garis E. Pugh be made honorary members of
this Most Excellent Prince Hall Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons PGHP James McDonald
represented Grand High Priest Garis E. Pugh and a small delegation of line Officers accompanied
him. Last year I was made a honorary Past Grand High Priest in the Most Excellent Prince Hall
Grand Chapter of Royal Arch masons in the state of Ohio, and each year I am invited to join their
Grand Chaplain at his station and to take part in some activity of the Convocation. This year I was
invited to share in the Service of Remembrance.
This Report is given in the bond of 3 times. 3.
Rev. F, Raymond Sharritts
Grand Representative to the Most Excellent Prince Hall Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons in
the State of Ohio"
OKLAHOMA - The Grand Lodge of Oklahoma wanted its membership to have part at the
festivities of Grand Lodge so a Family evening was the start. The only presentations given were the
"Medal of Honor", and "Teacher of the Year" Awards.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 109
It is no small effort to state this was a complete success. All tickets were sold out. Families did
come, and some had great numbers of a given Community present. The Banquet dinner cost $10.00
each. Wow where will we find that in Ohio?
Just one Family Lodge Community Activity was a Public Concert. This was to celebrate the
finished Temple pipe organ being rebuilt and enlarged. Some of the new pipes in the pedal division
are as tall as a three-story building. This was all after a huge Community Reception at the Grand
Lodge Building.
They took in 1,055 new Master Masons by the Community Activities. It was the Grand Master
that said, "We are doing more in our Communities than in many a long year." They started the
Masonic Pillar Clubs, to re-establish Masonry in communities which either have lost their Lodge or
have never had one. (What is Ohio Doing? Well I am going to state that, "MWB Charles R.
Murphy will not sit on his hands!")
This Grand Jurisdiction has started a Masonic Singles group. Just get the literature and the
phone numbers listed in this material and you may start something in Ohio!
ONTARIO - Ohio was represented in fine fashion. Our Grand High Priest, MEC James M.
McDonald and almost his total staff were in attendance. This was the 149th Grand Convocation. It
was held in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada April 26-27 and 28, 2007. Process and Procedures
are different from Ohio for sure. The Nominations papers received on the due date, had one
Nomination for elected office denied due to non-compliance with the Constitution. A reminder was
given, "Once again the Grand Chapter Office is only open on a part time basis and I would strongly
recommend that all correspondence be sent in writing by letter or fax." When corresponding with
our Grand Chapter the procedures are to be strictly adhered to by all Chapters. The Grand Chapter
Office does not have an e-mail address and nothing concerning Grand Chapter should be sent to the
Grand Secretary Ezra's personal e-mail address.
In the Grand First Principal's Address he reported that his Charity request was a success. He had
invited each Companion in the Province to donate $70.00 to the Medical Research Fund over the
next two years. It was noted, at this time that $1,000,000 had been received for the Capital Fund.
They are donating to Research to find cures to dreaded diseases.
This Jurisdiction is celebrating 150 years of Capitular Masonry. They have listed many activities
that could give our Grand Chapter Committee some very good ideas. Just read them from the 2007
Proceedings
The Scholarship Committee received 85 applications. One was rejected and 84 were awarded
$4,300.00 each. This is a most commendable effort, my Companions. Companion Walter T.
Bulbeck is the Chairman of the Fraternal Correspondence Committee and has performed in a most
admirable presentation of reporting the items of news from other Grand Jurisdictions. The statistics
Report lists every Companion by name that has deceased this past year. They list the name of
every; Demitted, Suspended, Reinstated Member in the Proceedings. They also publish the name of
every Companion in attendance at their Grand Convocation.
The Grand Representative of this Jurisdiction visits Ontario but has never given Glen any report
or information from his visits. This should be a requirement as his visit is of more importance than
my reporting.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter110
OREGON - Having such a problem for Chapters to function properly without the membership
knowing the Ritual is devastating. There was a recommendation by the Grand High Priest to solve
this. He asked to have a Directory printed, listing all Members having memorized parts by; Name,
Address, Phone, and Chapter No. He wants this Directory available to every Chapter to assist in
getting Degree Teams.
SCOTLAND - This is for the 2007 year. They meet quarterly so there are differing reports from
each quarter. During the Grand Banquet they had the pure pleasure of hearing from the M.E.
Companion Larry E. Gray, General Grand High Priest of General Grand Chapter Royal Arch
Masons International. He is always exciting to hear, as he brings news and happenings from all
around the world. He first noted their existence for the past 210 years. He told of each General
Grand Officer serving 3 years and that he was in his 19th month He allowed them to know that
in his home Jurisdiction of Indiana, he would not be toasting with wine but grape juice. They were
willing for him to understand that if they served grape juice the attendance would be most slight.
This was the Vernal Equinox Celebration.
I always enjoy reading the reports of the Grand Superintendents as they are charged throughout
the world. The following are just a few:
FIJI - The Chapter has been most busy with work through Lodge and Chapter. The country has
been under a military coup, for what they call a peaceful clean up, to rectify corruption and
mismanagement in the country. The Chapter meetings were not affected in any way and they
expect to have more Candidates this year.
GIBRALTAR - The work in Chapter and the Cryptic Councils are under the control of the
Grand Superintendent. His duty to adhere strictly to the Book of Constitution and Laws by the
Chapters and Councils is a challenge at times. They rely heavily on the Craft Lodges for their new
members Many of the Craft will sponsor a new Chapter Candidate. Many of the Craft Lodges are
doing the Mark Master Degree. At any rate they all seem to operate in harmony.
NIGERIA - There has been a general down turn in the economy. There is also disinterest in
would-be Candidates. We are also witnessing a resultant harshness to the populace of the three
Chapters noted, they have work but some have problems getting to Lodge or Chapter to assist, as
finances are short. Again we are told of the need to have Sponsors for the Candidates.
TRINIDAD and TOBAGO - They are experiencing a lot of Masonic work. They have a very
strong Charity concern. They assist in caring and placement of abandoned children. They have a
strong will to assist with the physical disabilities of the people in general. They can see Masons
working in the care of the community.
CAPE of GOOD HOPE - There is a never ending on the decreasing pool of possible
Candidates as the country remains on the status quo. The Leadership of several of the Chapters and
Lodges have deceased this past year and the void is tremendous. We are visiting and working with
every avenue available to just continue to turn this to a positive.
ZIMBABWE - All six Chapters are struggling to just stay active. In this past year 4 Chapters
of the six had no Installation. The Chapter in Kariba did not have a meeting this last year. They are
still losing members due to immigration. In many cases the Companions leaving the country have
been Scribes and Treasurers.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 111
It is recognized that our finances are such that almost all Chapters are in problems. They were
thankful for the Charity Trust Fund to assist in immediate financial needs. A new dawn is
appearing and the support is strong, a new year for the Scottish Royal Arch in Zimbabwe is
starting.
GERMANY - The Chapters in this Grand Jurisdiction are flourishing. Yes, people are on the
move in and out by transfer, but Candidates are plentiful. There is an excitement about Masonry in
Germany at this time. It is shown as a harmonious Organization in the community.
MALAWI - All three Chapters and Councils are moving in a progressive nature. Younger
members along with the enthusiastic delivery of the Ritual are of no harm.
After a Chapter or Council Installation all the members join in a community effort. They have
sponsored youth Games after installation. They have taken their total families to visit homes for the
Aging. The list goes on and we in Ohio could take a good look at this kind of active success
pattern. It gets new members and it keeps other members happy to be a member.
SIERRA LEONE - There seems to be a good amount of activity in this Jurisdiction in both
Chapters and Councils. The economy is now making a turn to the pleasant, so it is possible for
more members to attend the Festive Boards. It was noted that each time the Superintendent visited
they held a meeting and had a dinner. Many new members are in attendance either by exaltation or
by affiliation. Progress in the membership is going up. Masonry is being enjoyed by many in the
economic upswing.
WESTERN AUSTRALIA - The Masonic activity in this Province is doing quite well. They are
very busy with the standard communications as well as Degree work. Many traveling visitors are
attending the meetings The Councils are growing as they should be. There is such good harmony
with the Supreme Grand Chapter as well. The Superintendent visited Queensland in October where
much activity was happening.
SOUTH CAROLINA - This was the One Hundred Ninety-Sixth Annual Convocation. It was
held in North Myrtle Beach on March 12, 2007.
This Grand Jurisdiction has 29 Chapters with 27 Chapters represented at this Convocation.
They have a total of 5,546 Companions. Five Chapters had Gains in Membership while three
Chapters did not have a loss. They have a very outstanding record with giving to RATA. It is a
policy of some of the Chapters to donate in the Honor of a Deceased member which brings a life
time research possible. Twelve Chapters received Gold Certificates this year.
It was with regret that a trial was held by the Grand Master vs. a Companion. The Companion
was suspended until the next session of Grand Lodge. This trial created a vacancy in the Grand
Chapter appointed position of Second Veil. The Grand High Priest was pleased to appoint
Companion to finish the Capitular year.
This Grand Jurisdiction has 29 Councils with 28 Councils represented at this Grand Session. A
total of 5,511 Companions were listed on the Membership Roster at the end of 2006. This was the
first I remember reading about a Grand Chapter and a Grand Council having the same number of
Chapters as they have Councils.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter112
TEXAS - Dear Companion Joe
October once again and time for my annual letter from Ohio. I trust that all is well with you and
with Royal Arch Masonry in the Lone Star State.
After a little difficulty, we just completed our 191st annual Grand Convocation. It was held in
Sandusky, Ohio, located on the shores of Lake Erie. Sandusky is probably best known for being
the home of Cedar Point Amusement Park (the largest in the world, so I’m told) and also for the
fact that the city fathers, some two hundred years ago, when laying out the streets for the city did so
in the form of the square and compasses. No doubt a Mason had something to do with this! Little
did he know in those days of horse and buggies, the problems he would create for automotive
traffic some two centuries later! Also of interest is Johnson’s Island, just across the bay from
Sandusky, which was a confederate POW facility during the Civil War. A number of Masonic
stories and legends related to the prisoners and union forces on Johnson Island have been published
over the years. All are of interest.
Now back to the difficulty with the Grand Convocation – it was originally set to be held in
Columbus, centrally located in the state, however, the hotel cancelled our contract – they decided to
close and remodel their facility – the same time we were supposed to be there. Now, the scramble
is on! Our Grand High Priest Jim McDonald then looked to Toledo, near his home district – hotels
yes, meeting areas, no! Finally, the Kalahari resort in Sandusky, which is both a huge family water
park and conference center, was secured. It turned out to be an exceptional facility with great
accommodations and meeting rooms. Many of our junior Grand Officers indicated they plan to
return to hold their sessions there! Sometimes, what seems to be a bad situation, turns out even
better in the end!
This year, legislation was presented and passed that each chapter must prepare and provide their
inspecting officer an audit report of the Chapter finances, along with supporting bank statements,
etc. Although our Grand Secretary sends a generic audit report form for the Chapters to use, it was
never made mandatory that a copy be provided to the inspecting officer for his files. Unfortunately,
over the past dozen years or so, have been several incidences where a secretary or treasurer has
misappropriated funds who, if a proper audit were conducted each year, might not have done so.
It’s sad that we must legislate honesty into our Masonic bodies.
As I indicated last year, our Grand Master, Michael Himes, is a strong supporter of the York
Rite and is the first Knight, York Cross of Honor in the Grand Lodge line in many years. On
March 31st, he directed that each of the 26 Masonic districts hold a One-day Grand Master’s class
where a man can become a Mason in just one day. He further directed that the Mark Master degree
to be conferred immediately following the master Mason degree on any and all candidates who
chose to join the York Rite that day. Three hundred seventy one (I think I’m close on this number)
new Mark Masters were created that day. Many completed the balance of their York Rite work at
several York Rite festivals held around the state in April and May. Others chose to complete their
work in the Chapter, Councils and Commanderys. There are another 2000 new Master Masons
who did not petition the York Rite that day. The challenge now is to have our Chapters follow up
with a personal contact and to sell the York Rite. What a great opportunity we
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 113
have here in Ohio to build on this year’s successes! We have such a great message to provide
them.
Finally, for your review, I have enclosed a copy of the Annual Address and reports from the
Grand Chapter session as well as a copy of our Grand Lodge/Masonic Home publication “The
Beacon”. I hope you not only find them interesting, but they also provide you a better insight into
Masonry here in Ohio.
Joe, my best wishes to you in Texas. Continued good health and well being. Until the next
time. I remain –
Fraternally yours,
Wayne S. Dill, Grand Representative of Texas near the Grand Chapter of Ohio
VERMONT - This Grand Jurisdiction stated they had 20 Chapters of which 17 Chapters are
operational and functional. They have had problems. The Grand High Priest had to serve two years,
due to a death.
WEST VIRGINIA - This was the One Hundred Thirty-Seventh Annual Convocation and it was
held in Martinsburg. This meeting was held October 26, 2007.
In the report of the Grand High Priest he notes the misuse of the New Written Ritual. He had to
issue a letter during the year giving a warning to those found guilty of this misuse. He states I has
taken 135 years to get a written Ritual and he wants it protected.
He noted his belief that the requirement of serving as Captain of the Host, before being elected
to the Grand Council is hindering Chapters in getting new Officers. This requirement may need
some attention.
It was mentioned that this Grand Jurisdiction was in the center of making many changes in the
area of Grand Representatives. This is all being cared for by the Grand Secretary’s Office.
The Grand Secretary shows that 7 Chapters had a gain and 27 Chapters declined in
membership. The new Law Books are now available and can be purchased for $10.00 from the
Grand Secretary. He noted that a back up file should not be stored where the computer is located. If
the computer burns so will the backup, now make a change immediately to keep files protected.
They have a total membership of 4,553 Companions
The Fraternal Correspondence Report is a fine over view of what is probably happening in the
Jurisdictions. It lists some of the ills as well as some motivating factors of success. They also note
that they are not receiving Proceedings from other Grand Jurisdictions. They sent a letter to those
they sent Proceedings and did not receive any in return. It stated, If we do not receive a set of
Proceedings we will not send any." It seems many are going to a more inexpensive CD format. It is
still a problem to some Grand jurisdictions who do not send any Proceedings but yet request to
have others to send to them.
WISCONSIN - This Grand Jurisdiction has a lot of good memories for Glen. I have been given
the privilege of being invited speaker to their Grand Lodge. Many of their York Rite members have
assisted me in my Masonic tenure.
They experienced a loss of membership of 129 Companions. It was reported they have 2,067
Companions on their roster. The Football home of the Green Bay Packers was the City they
selected to have their Annual Convocation.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter114
(Right Excellent Companion Norman Lincoln, could you assist this Grand Chapter Jurisdiction,
from the Ohio Chapter of Research Library? If we have either or both books, please loan them a
copy of each. Then let me know, I will tell the world about your good deed. New Jersey Grand
High Priest stated this in his Address: "Because no one including Blanche Peterson can locate any
records for the years of 1986-87, William Cranston's year, and 1987-88, Douglas Norwood's year, I
recommend that an abbreviated proceeding be printed with whatever information we have
pertaining to the two years in question and kept on record in the Grand Secretary's file. Anyone
wishing to have a copy would be able to receive one from the Grand Secretary. This would enable
us to proceed knowing that we did all we could to fulfill our duty to these Past Grand High
Priests.")
Creative, Enthusiastic, Original
ARKANSAS - ADDRESS OF THE MOST ILLUSTRIOUS GRAND MASTER
George A. (Gan) Nunnally, Jr.
Fellow Companions, I am in the final hours of my term as Most Illustrious Grand Master and
have enjoyed the opportunity to serve you and Masonry. I started this term with the area Grand
Master Meetings to provide each Council with beneficial information. Information concerning
other councils, such as, maps and membership lists along with resources to help with finances,
leadership and organizational skills.
I adopted the following mission statement for my term: “To provide Masonry the opportunity to
generate interest in the eyes of Masons and the general public by creating an atmosphere of
fellowship and service that fulfills the needs of our communities and improves the perception of
Masonry.”
With this mission statement I then developed 6 objectives. 1. To have better cooperation and
coordination among local Council and other Masonic organizations. 2. To develop degree teams
that will provide the candidates with a pride in the fraternity and a better presentation of the
principles of Masonry. 3. To assist the Grand Lodge of Arkansas with the development and
distribution of Masonic education materials to the general public and in the local Lodges. 4. To
build unity between all of the Masonic organizations. 5. To reward the outstanding men and
women of our communities that live and act by the principles of Masonry. 6. To grow the
membership of this ancient and honorable fraternity with knowledgeable men capable of improving
our communities. I then designed a program that would fit the objectives and the mission statement.
That program was the “White House Foundation Stone Display”. In honor of my Great Grand
Father, Harry W. Bowman, of Hazen, Arkansas. I donated the money to have a portable display
case made to house the Stone and fund the program start-up. The display received front page
articles in two papers. One in NW Arkansas, and the other in NE Arkansas. The program is
mentioned on numerous web sites. It also was included on the Freemasonry Watch, an anti-
Masonic web site with the disclaimer, “Send us in confidence details of cases where you think
Organized Freemasonry has personally hurt yourself, family, friends, acquaintances or community.
We would also appreciate any additional background information, links, and references on
Freemasonry and the Occult. Help us take a bite out of Freemasonry” The Stone made its rounds
this year at elementary
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 115
schools, pre-schools, church youth groups, two high schools, Lodges, Lodge fundraisers and even a
fraternity house at the University of Arkansas.
In addition to the Stone, the elementary schools and pre-schools received books about American
history. We donated Dynamic Freedoms, Anchor of Liberty and Let’s Celebrate America to the
school’s library. We then donated a teacher’s guide and 30 copies of Let’s Celebrate America to
each first grade classroom and each pre-school teacher received a teacher’s guide and a copy of the
book. Copies of Dynamic Freedoms were given to the high school and elementary schools to be
used by their Civics teachers.
For the groups that used this program, it worked. This program is available and can be used by
any Masonic group in Arkansas. We have had more success this year than any year I have been
involved in this fraternity.
Here, perhaps, I should stop-----
However, I do want to offer for your review and contemplation a few sentiments; We need to
better utilize the leadership of the York Rite Bodies. What I mean is this: We are running the York
Rite as though it were three different organizations and not working together for the one common
goal—To strengthen the York Rite in Arkansas.
Let us provide each body an objective to focus on, such as, Chapter officers would concentrate
on membership; they put together a long term plan to promote the York Rite within the Lodges,
where we find our members. They work with the York Rite College to put together a statewide
degree team and set dates for Chapter festivals, one in the spring and one in the fall.
The Council officers would be responsible for, let’s say---administration and finances. They
could oversee process such as audits, by making sure they are done in a timely and consistent
manner by providing “how-to” information for the committees. They could evaluate the financial
situation as well as provide leadership information to the membership. The Commandery would be
responsible for---public relations and charity; designing programs that keep Masonry in the
forefront of our communities. With programs such as the Knights Templar Eve Foundation,
Minister to the Holy Land, and scholarships along with CMMRF and RARA, they could tell a great
story.
In addition, we need to define the rolls of our committees and the responsibilities of our officers.
We need a quarterly officer meeting, and with the officers better organized across the York Rite
would be able to grow Masonry in Arkansas.
In conclusion, I want to thank you for your understanding, your time and your patience with me
this year.
I did not accomplish the goals that I expected of myself this year. Over the years you have seen
my energy and participation in all facets of Masonry. I have always given my time, opinions and
recommendations for the fraternity. I have had numerous unexpected challenges in my personal
life this year, challenges that required much more of my time and concentration than I realized.
Again, thank you for your support and continued friendship.
With that I have only one thing left to say: GOOD-BYE!
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter116
INDIANA - CONDENSED HISTORY GRAND CHAPTER OF INDIANA
Compiled by Robert A. Woods, P.G.H.P.
MADISON CHAPTER
Organized July 14, 1819, under dispensation issued April 1, 1819, by Deputy General Grand High
Priest, Thomas Smith Webb; but Webb died without making official report of his action to General
Grand Chapter. The Chapter made no returns, believing it was wording under charter as an
independent body. Hence General Grand Chapter at its September, 1819, meeting having only
hearsay evidence of its existence took no action and no charter was granted; but Chapter continued
to work U.D. until 1829, when it suspended until July 19, 1842, when it resumed labor. In 1843 its
irregularity was brought to their attention Deputy General Grand High Priest Stapleton, and it
ceased labor and petitioned General Grand chapter to heal and confirm its doings from September,
1819, to date. This was done by General Grand Chapter September 12, 1844, and a charter was
granted, upon the Chapter healing the member’s by re-obligating them. This confirmation gives the
Chapter an unbroken record since July 14, 1819. Regretfully, Madison No. 1 was consolidated
with Columbus No. 10 on September 11, 2000.
BROOKVILLE CHAPTER
Organized under dispensation given by Deputy General Grand High Priest Thomas Smith
Webb sometime during 1819, but Webb died before General Grand Chapter met in September,
1819, and no official report was made of its formation; upon the hearsay evidence General Grand
Chapter did not act, and no charter was granted. General Grand Chapter gives the order of
formation as Madison first and Brookville
Second. Brookville met with Madison and Vincennes, at Madison, May 13, 1823, and
organized a Grand Chapter, which never functioned thereafter, and Brookville Chapter passed out
of existence, with no records left even of its brief career.
VINCENNES CHAPTER
Organized June 16, 1820, under dispensation issued May 13, 1820, by General Grand King,
John Snow. September 15, 1826, the Committee on Doings of General Grand Officers reported
that charters have been granted to Vincennes Chapter on May 13, 1820, and the Jennings Mark
Lodge at Vevay on May 4, 1821. This Chapter during its early years was very peripatetic, and
aside from taking part in the formation of a Grand Chapter at Madison in May, 1823, which went
for naught, it suspended functions on four different occasions, viz, from March 9, 1830, to
December 29, 1834; from August 7, 1836, to May 2 1838 – from February 3, 1839, to February 28,
1842, and from November 16, 1842, to May 7, 1845. On this last date it resolved to participate in
the approaching meeting at Indianapolis for the purpose of forming a Grand Chapter and, although
five delegates were named, not one was present at the formation. About this time the history of
Vincennes Chapter was rather clouded. Whether it was working under dispensation or charter is
not clear; for on May 22, 1848, Grand Chapter provided that “a charter or dispensation be issued in
vacation by the Grand High Priest and one other Grand Officer, which although the Chapter met on
June 30, 1848, to receive it, and the Grand High Priest, at the May 1849, Annual, reports that a
charter has been issued to Vincennes Chapter no. 7, yet future developments reveal it was never
delivered, and that the Chapter really received a Dispensation granted in 1848, signed by the Grand
High Priest, but not even attested by
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 117
the Grand Secretary,” as reported by Grand High Priest William Hacker in 1858, and upon
Hacker’s recommendation a charter was granted on May 21, 1858.
FIRST GRAND CHAPTER
Madison Chapter, Brookville Chapter, and Vincennes Chapter met at Madison on May 13, 1823,
and organized a Grand Chapter. From some cause, it never met afterwards, and
was actually and legally dissolved by reasons of its failure to comply with its own constitutional
requirements to meet and elect officers at the regular meeting in May 1824. Neither was General
Grand Chapter advised of its existence, except hearsay: said body therefore on September 12, 1844,
declared it to have no legal existence or authority. This paved the way for the present Grand
Chapter of December 1845.
NEW JERSEY - State of the Craft
The condition of the Royal Craft in New Jersey is variable. We had a most successful Fall
Festival. I visited Trinity, Corinthian, Ocean City, Scott Chapters, and see enthusiasm and activity.
I visit Adelphic, Zerubbabel, Ark of the Covenant, Maple, Union, Brearley, chapters, and I see
great determination to soldier on, to improve, to grow and to prosper. However, this is tempered by
the regrettable situations at Temple. Three Times Three, Washington, and Boonton, where I fear
that “some evil has befallen them” and their lights will be extinguished.
We have a proposal before you to fraternally recognize the Prince Hall Grand Royal Arch
Chapter of New Jersey under the same form of compact and terms as our Grand Lodges have
accomplished. I am informed that the Prince hall Grand Royal Arch Chapter has accepted this
proposal. I trust that you will concur and support this action. In an unfriendly world, a man cannot
have too many friends.
In reviewing the history of the Grand Chapter, we have seen a long and steady decline in our
membership that mirrors that which is occurring in Grand Lodge. From a membership peak of
about 30,000 Royal Arch Masons in 1930, today our membership is about the same as it was in
1873. We see that almost 200 years ago the first attempt at a Grand Chapter died due to economic
distress, political incorrectness, but most particularly, those Companions gave up.
Today in New Jersey, especially that part of the state north of the Raritan, there is a profound
malaise, a disease that infects our state government, our university, our sports teams, businesses,
our lodges and chapter; it is AN ACCEPTANCE OF MEDIOCITY: “Okay is good enough.”
Sociologists tell us its a form of post-traumatic stress, a reaction to the events of September 2001
and not all that different from what happened in the nation after 1973.
Then it took the nation eight years, the election of a new national leader who refused to accept
mediocrity, and the improbable victory of the US ice hockey team in a do-or-die confrontation to
kick us out of our apathy, pessimism, and self-defeatism.
But we as Masons should by rights have no reason for pessimism.
In Washington, NJ, where Temple chapter went out of business, we see booming real estate
development. We see the formation of new families. We see enough new population that the state
transit agency is exploring reintroducing commuter rail service for the first time in 40 years.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter118
In Hudson County, long a Masonic wasteland, we see booming real estate sales and new
household being formed constantly. In South Jersey, the demographers tell us that the population
will increase by 1 million inhabitants in the next 15 years. We see major new developments in
Millville, Vineland, Camden, and Burlington County. I cannot believe there are no suitable men of
goodwill and reputation among these new families and households. Are there no men concerned
about their communities? Unlike other fraternal organizations that seem only to be interested in
social activities, we offer something more personal and valuable. We have to be visible in our
communities, tell our story, why someone would want to join and participate with us.
As Charles Dickens wrote: “it is the best of times, it is the worst of times.” Such is the state of
the Royal Craft. Our actions, every day, help tip the balance to the good.
ONTARIO, CANADA
(Glen wishes for the Ohio Grand Chapter to take a look at creativity. The following is a report I
had never been privileged to read as such. Companions please read and enjoy!)
On a lighter side, I thought I’d take you on an abbreviated world tour of Royal Arch Masonry.
While we have evolved from the English Jurisdiction, Ireland and Scotland have been very active
in chartering a host of Chapters across the world.
The Irish, not only active at home, have chartered and have Jurisdiction in South Africa (North),
Natal, New Zealand, The Far East – Hong Kong, South East Asia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,
Nigeria and Zimbabwe. Consideration is now being given to establishing a Chapter in Sri Lanka.
The Scottish Jurisdiction has chartered Chapters in Gibraltar, Fiji, Malawi, New Zealand (North
& South Islands), Trinidad/Tobago, Western Australia and the Western Province, Cape of Good
Hope in Africa.
English Chapters also exist in many of these countries as well. What is impressive is that they
are able to maintain congenial fraternal relations.
These Jurisdictions are not immune to our problems and as such have closures and
amalgamations but they also are reviving old charters and dedicating new Chapters.
Not to be forgotten are our fraternal relationships with Argentina, Finland, France, Germany,
Greece, India, Israel, Mexico, the Netherlands, the Philippines, Switzerland and Venezuela.
The Royal Arch presence is indeed World Wide.
Finally, I would like to thank you, Most Excellent Sir, for the opportunity to serve our Grand
Chapter and also I would thank our Grand Scribe Ezra for his continuing support.
Respectfully submitted by:Walter T. Bulbeck, Chairmen, Fraternal Relations Committee
In bringing this Fourteenth Grand Fraternal Correspondent Report to a close, I have some
names to mention, or it would be an error on my part. I thank Most Excellent Companion Bill
Purdy, Arthur Ross, Wayne Dill, Terry Meyers, Robert Crabbs, Charles McCarty, Chester
Hammond, Alan D. Hart, John R. Gartrell, Steven A. Duncan, Jean Justice, Kermit V. Zimmerman,
James M. McDonald and Garis E. Pugh, Grand High Priests for the appointment to this Grand
Position. Also, to all the Companions in the Ohio Grand Jurisdiction, I thank you for the Title of
Right Excellent!
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 119
I wish to bring attention to a most loving and persevering couple, Most Excellent Companion
Dale G. Ray, Jr. and his most attractive Bride, Jacqueline, our Grand Secretary couple. We in the
Gentle Craft require much, and sometimes say nothing in praise for service. Our silence is your
answer of appreciation. May you enjoy the quite peace afforded you.
Our Grand Office is always at the ultimate level of friendly service. We enjoy every
opportunity to call and order, as it lends another glimpse of the efficient, soft, and thorough activity
available to us in Ohio. We all thank you, and wish you the healthiest life that God can produce
unto you both. You are a loved Couple.
I always try to close my report speaking to my buddies. Every unit had a Country Boy, and we
played on him at every opportunity. He would never let us down on humor. Several of us were
moving into a new barracks. Our Country Boy came running into the barracks and told his buddy,
"Al, they just stole your pickup truck." Al jumped up saying, "Who?" The good old Country Boy
said, "\I didn't see their faces, but I got the license number!"
Well, I have been through a lot with all of you, my buddies, so let's be kind to me now. Keep
working hard, Companions! OHIO GRAND CHAPTER - I applaud you!
Glen L. Opp, Grand Fraternal Correspondent, August 09, 2008
CLOSING COMMENTS FROM GRAND HIGH PRIEST GARIS E. PUGH
“I now discharge all committees appointed by me to serve in 2007 – 2008 and I want to thank
each and every one of you for all you have done this year. One appointment that I did make was
that of Grand Stand-Up Comedian - that appointment will stay as a permanent job – Most
Excellent Companion Dill we appreciate your efforts this year and continue on!
Companions – my out of state guests, thank you for coming. It’s been a pleasure to have you
here; in hosting you; in meeting and greeting you. I hope you had a wonderful time. Now that my
schedule will be just a little bit less, well, maybe Virginia might have different thoughts, we can
come and visit you and enjoy your company. I love everybody here!
Thanks to everyone!”
INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS
The Grand Chapter was called from Labor to Recess at 9:30 A.M. to prepare for the open
Installation of the Grand Officers.
The ladies and guests were invited to enter. The Grand Chapter was called to order by Most
Excellent Companion Jean Justus, installing Officer.
Most Excellent Companion Justus then installed the newly elected and appointed Grand
Officers into their respective stations in ample form. He was assisted during the installation by
Most Excellent Companion Kermit V. Zimmerman, installing Marshal;
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter120
Most Excellent Companion Wayne S. Dill, installing Secretary; and Most Excellent Companion
Charles McCarty as installing Chaplain.
Most Excellent Companion Draye thanked the installing team for their fine work and the ladies
of the Grand Chapter for the support given their husbands.
PRESENTATION OF GRAND HIGH PRIEST APRON
Most Excellent Companion Draye having being installed into the station of Grand High Priest,
it was noted that he was not properly attired. He was conducted west of the Altar and there
presented with the apron of a Grand High Priest by Most Excellent Companion Robert D. Crabbs
assisted by the new first Lady of Capitular Masonry Paula..
PAST DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND HIGH PRIEST JEWELS
Past District Deputy Grand High Priest Jewels were presented with sincere thanks to the
retiring District Deputies Grand High Priest for their hard work and efforts on behalf of the Grand
Chapter. Assisting Most Excellent Companion Draye with the presentation were Most Excellent
Companions Pugh, McDonald, and Zimmerman, for whom the retiring deputies had served:
District 2 …………………………………………………………….. Ronald L. CraftDistrict 3 ……………………………………………………............. H. Jeffery ShawDistrict 4 …………………………………………………….…......... Richard D. HallDistrict 5 .............................................................................................R. Keith O’DellDistrict 11 ……………………………………………………..…… Stephen F. MillerDistrict 13 ………………………………………………….………….. Larry E. ByrdDistrict 14 ……………………………………………...……….. William E. ChannellDistrict 15 ………………………………………………………….. James C. EckardDistrict 16 …………………………………………………………... Jeffery L. AddisDistrict 18 ……………………………………………..……… Glenn R. Greenamyer
DISTRICT DEPUTIES GRAND HIGH PRIEST
2008 - 2009
District1 Joey E. Kidd, Sr. ………………...………………………….…………… Paulding2 Ronald L. Craft………………………………...………………………….…. Elida3 David W. Slusher …………………...……..…………………….……… Loveland
John C. Watkins……………...………….…………………………… MiamisburgJames C. Stephens…...……………...………………...………………… Hamilton
4 John H. Donahoo ………………...…………………………….…………. MilfordGerald W. Hughes ……………………...……...………….……........… CincinnatiThomas E. Williams ………………..………..………….…………...… Cincinnati
5 Loren L. Bower, Jr ……………………………………….…………. New Vienna6 J. Erick Bails …..………………………………………….................. Lewisburg7 David A. Young………………………………………………..…...…...….. Tiffin8 J. Keith Green…….…………………………………………….……… Graytown9 Larry R. Hess ………………………………………….…….…… Sheffield Lake
10 Charles E. Bonecutter ……………………...…………............……....…… Shelby11 Daniel S. Smith ,……………………………........…………….……........ Gahanna
John E. Hollback, Jr……..…………..………………………………...….. Howard
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 121
13 N. Lee Peterson ………………..…………………………….………… Marietta14 Charles L. Paine………………………..………………………...…… Beallsville15 Jean L. Davis ………………………………………………....……..... Shadyside16 Joel A. Otis …...……………..…………………………………..… Chagrin Falls
Robert R. Childers ………………………………………………...…. Avon Lake17 William A. Whittenberger …..…..………………………...…….... Leavittsburg18 Richard P. Snider, Sr. …………...……………………………………..… Canton19 Randal E. Davis ………...………………………..……………………… Warren20 Neal B. Forbes ….………………………………………………….......… Mentor
They were greeted west of the Altar by Grand High Priest Draye, assisted by Grand Secretary
Dale G. Ray, where they presented their proxies along with the jewels and aprons of their office.
DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICERS2008 - 2009
District1 Christian A. King ……………………………………………….………….. Archbold2 Jack B. Hollman ……...…………………………………………………. Waynesfield3 Aaron C. Crawford ……………………………………………………… Miamisburg
Joseph J. Fair …………………………………..………….…………….... BrookvilleRichard A. Grimes…………………………...................……………………… Xenia
4 Stanley J. Anderson ……... …………….……………………………......… LovelandDarrell L. Duncan ……………………………………………………….... CincinnatiRobert P. May …………………………………………………………. West Chester
5 Karl D. Akers ……...…………………………………....…………...….. Portsmouth6 Richard W. Stewart …….…………………………………….....……… New Carlisle7 Leo E. Garey …………………………………………………….......………. Findlay8 Kim W. Sautter ……….……………………………………………….….. Perrysburg9 W. Nicklos Tazelaar ……………………………………………………….. Vermilion10 Darrell R. Porter ………………………………………………..…………….. Shelby11 John A. Spoff ……………………………………………………………… Columbus
Max A. Bauman ………………………………………………………....… Columbus13 Larry E. Byrd …..………………………………………………...................…. Logan
14 John W. Rush ……………………………………………………….…. New Concord15 Michael T. Wood …………………………………...........................…… Wintersville16 Joseph J. Nuessle …………………….…………………………………..... Brooklyn
Michael C. Welchel ………………………………….…..............……..... Brecksville17 William C. Young …………………………………….………..............… Wadsworth18 Stephen A. Nevel. …...………………...………….…………….…….……. Massillon
19 David W. Hyde ………………………….……………………………….…… Warren20 Robert J. Homoly …………...……………………..……………………… Willowick
The District Education Officers were presented and extended the honors due their station.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS, 2008 – 2009
Most Excellent Companion Draye, in accordance with Ohio Capitular Code, announced the
following committee appointments for 2008-2009 and the trustees to the Royal Arch Foundation:
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter122
RITUALJean W. Justus, PGHP, Chairman Steven A. Duncan, Past Grand High PriestDonald L. Losasso, Grand King James W. Himmelright, Gr. Captain of the Host
Joseph Orosz, PDDDGHP, 16th District F. Raymond Sharritts, Grand ChaplaiFINANCE
Norman LoBell, PDDGHP, 4th District, Chairman Dale G. Ray, Jr., PGHP, Gr. Secy
Charles J. McCarty, PGHP, Gr. Treasurer. Steven J. Oliver, Grand ScribeDonald L. Losasso, Grand King
CHARTERS AND DISPENSATIONS
James M. McDonald, PGHP, Chairman Daniel S. Smith, DDGHP, 11th DistrictDonald W. Owens, Grand Master, 2nd Veil R. Keith O’Dell, Gr. Master, 1st VeilJames C. Stephens, DDGHP, 3rd District Larry E. Byrd, PDDGHP, 13th District
William A. Whittenberger, DDGHP, 17th DistrictMASONIC EDUCATION
Jeffrey Addis, Grand Guard, Chairman Wayne S. Dill, Past Grand High Priest
Kermit V. Zimmerman, Past Grand High Priest Norman J. Lincoln, Grand HistorianGlen L. Opp, Grand Fraternal Correspondent Henry Dodson, PDDGHP, 3rd District
MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE
Michael J. Spisak, Jr., Chairman John H. Whitehouse, Jr., PHP Cunningham #187David W. Leifer, PHP Willoughby #231 Ross R. Black, II. PHP Cuyahoga Falls #225
ROYAL ARCH FOUNDATION TRUSTEES (3 year term)M. Ex. Companion Jerry C. Crawford, M. Ex. Companion Robert D. Crabbs and M. Ex.
Companion Garis E. Pugh
PRESENTATION OF PAST GRAND HIGH PRIEST JEWEL
Most Excellent Companion Garis Pugh was conducted west of the Alter and there presented
with the jewel of a Past Grand High Priest by Most Excellent Companion William Berry who gave
the following remarks:
“Most Excellent Companion Pugh, you have represented this Grand Chapter with pride and
dignity. For that, I am so very pleased to present you with this jewel of a Past Grand High Priest.
It was originally worn by Past Grand High Priests Edward E. Gillespie and Paul Nyitray, both
from the Toledo area, who I know, would be proud that it has been passed on to you. Wear it
with pride to yourself and to the fraternity.
We now welcome you to the ranks as one of the venerable elder statesmen of the Grand
Chapter – your fellow Past Grand High Priests.
The jewel was invested by Most Excellent Companion Pugh’s wife, the lovely and talented
Virginia, and the Companions then extended him a standing round of applause. MostExcellent Companion Pugh expressed his appreciation for the support of all theCompanions, the 6th Capitular District, and most especially, his bride Virginia.
APPOINTMENT OF OHIO MASONIC HOME BOARD TRUSTEE and
AMBASSADOR TO GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 123
Most Excellent Companion Draye announced that Most Excellent Companion Dale G. Ray,
Jr.’s term on board of trustees of the Ohio Masonic Home was expiring. He announced the re-
appointment of Most Companion Dale G. Ray to an additional three-year term and thanked him
for his many years of service to our Home on the Hill.
He further announced the appointment of Most Excellent Companion Jean W. Justus as
ambassador of Ohio to the General Grand Chapter.
There being nothing further to come before the 192nd Grand Convocation, Most Excellent
Companion Draye called upon Grand Chaplain F. Raymond Sharrits for the benediction.
BENEDICTION and CLOSING
The benediction was offered by Right Excellent Companion F. Raymond Sharritts, Grand
Chaplain:
“Let us pray. Holy and merciful God, we come before you as your children to invoke your
blessing upon us as we return forth into the Chapters of our state. Give us the power and the grace
to share with each other the meaning of life that we might spread light and truth by our acts of
kindness. Help us to remember that we are keepers of the Master’s word; enable us to be faithful
stewards of this trust.
Bless Robert and Paula as they journey throughout the state of Ohio; to infuse us with joy and
the gift of leadership.
Now as we turn form this place of safe haven to mix again with the world, may we find Your
presence with us that we might be able to do this.
May the Lord bless us and keep us. May the Lord make his face to shine upon us and be
gracious unto each one of us. May the Lord lift up his countenance upon us and give us peace.
Amen.”
Most Excellent Companion Robert J. Draye then declared Lafayett Chapter No.60 closed in
due form and the 192nd Annual Convocation of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Ohio
closed in ample form at 11:15 a.m..
Garis E. PughGrand High Priest
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter124
Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the State of Ohio
Chart a course for the future
We’ll Never Reach Our Destination if We Never Try
OFFICE OF THE GRAND HIGH PRIEST
__________________________________
October 10, 2007BULLETIN NO. 1
This bulletin is to be reviewed in each constituent chapter at the first stated convocationafter its receipt.
Companions:
At the one hundred and ninety-first Convocation of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons
of the State of Ohio held at the Kalahari Waterpark Resort, in Sandusky, Ohio on October 3 and 4,
2007, the following officers were elected and installed for the coming year.
ELECTIVE
Garis E. Pugh (wife Ginny) Grand High Priest
9527 Lakeshore Drive East, Huntsville, OH 43324
Home: 937-842-3747 Bus.: 937-843-3328 Fax: 937-843-3669
Robert J. Draye (wife Paula) Grand King
1271 Worton Boulevard, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
Home: 440-442-3140 Fax: 440-442-0015 Cell 440-667-6319
Donald L. Losasso (wife Theda) Grand Scribe
5149 Bixford Avenue, Canal Winchester, OH 43110
Home: 614-836-3412 Bus. 740-687-1908
Charles J. McCarty (wife Ann) Grand Treasurer
36005 Sherwood Lane, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094
Home: 440-975-0922 Bus: 440-442-0666 Fax: 440-442-1304
Dale G. Ray, Jr. (wife Jacqueline) Grand Secretary
Alexander Commons Suite 401, 564 West Tuscarawas Avenue, Barberton, OH 44203
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 125
Office: 330-753-3670 Fax: 330-753-3673
Home: 1031 Wilbur Avenue, Barberton, OH 44203 Home: (330) 753-5469
Steven J. Oliver (wife Susan) Grand Captain of the Host
321 E. Spring Street, New Knoxville, OH 45871
Home: (419) 753-2738 Bus.: (419) 942-1850
James W. Himmelright (wife Julia) Grand Principal Sojourner
631 Friendship Street, Medina, OH 44256
Home: (330) 722-3269 Bus.: (330) 666-8443
George M. Shell (wife Sharon) Grand Royal Arch Captain
8006 Browns Run Road, Germantown, OH 45327
Home: (937) 855-3996 Cell: (937) 620-3413
Robert W. Thomas (wife Donna) Grand Master of the Third Veil
509 Brandon Court, Chardon, Ohio 44024
Home: (440) 286-5661 Bus.: (440) 232-3320
Donald W. Owens Grand Master of the Second Veil
2737 Orland Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45211
Home: (513) 481-8616 Bus.: (513) 684-5110
Robert D. Blankenhorn, Jr. (wife Pamela) Grand Master of the First Veil
2172 Satinwood Drive, Mansfield, Ohio 44903 Home: (419) 589-2174
APPOINTIVE
F. Raymond Sharritts (wife Patricia) Grand Chaplain & Necrologist
1655 Lexington Drive, Lancaster, OH 43130 Home: (740) 654-6650
Herbert L. Clonch (wife Margaret) Grand Guard
1105 Meadow Lark Drive, Enon, OH 45323 Home: (937) 864-1396
Dewey A. McClure (widower) Grand Guard, Emeritus
Ohio Masonic Home, PO Box 120, Springfield, OH 45501 Home: (937) 525-5207
David L. Vassar (wife Judy) Grand Marshal
529 Oakwood Drive, Bellefontaine, OH 43311 Home: (937) 592-0793
Norman G. Lincoln Grand Historian
204 W. Chicago Street (P.O. Box 454), Eaton, OH 45320 Home: (937) 456-6859
Glen L. Opp (wife Nancy) Grand Fraternal Correspondent
104 S. Main Street, Rawson, OH 45881 Home: (419) 963-4724 Fax: (419) 963-0018
Don R. Lutz (wife Lenore) Grand Musician
1015 Montrose Avenue, Bexley, OH 43209 Home:(614) 231-3166 Bus: (614) 224-6105
Robert L. Jordan (wife Dorothy) Grand Musician, Emeritus
626 W. Ohio Avenue, Sebring, OH 44672 Home: (330) 938-6254
George Hall (wife June) Grand Parliamentarian, Emeritus
28 Park Avenue West, Mansfield, OH 44902 Home: 419-756-5696 Bus 419-524-9811
NOTES ON CONVOCATION
All of the 153 constituent Chapters and the 3 Mark Lodges and the Mark Lodge U.D. were
represented except:
LaGrange #68, Scioto #119, Martins Ferry #173, East Palestine #204, Mt. Moriah #230
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter126
All Grand Officers were in attendance except Dewey A. McClure, Grand Guard, Emeritus. All
Past Grand High Priests were present except Louis H. Doerman, Robert M. Huntzinger, Arthur T.
Reeves and Terry B. Meyers.
All District Deputies Grand High Priest were present. Also present were 19 District Education
officers, 54 Past District Deputies Grand High Priests, 20 out-of-state Guests, 46 Ohio
Distinguished Guests, 236 voting delegates other than the above, 105 voting Past High Priests
other than the above, and 13 non-voting Companions. Total number of Companions registered was
567. 187 ladies were registered.
The per capita contribution to the Ohio Masonic Home for the year ending May 31, 2007 was
$4877.25, plus an added voluntary contribution of $1,500.00.
Contributions from Ohio to the Royal Arch Research Assistance program during the year
totaled $7,665.76. This brings Ohio's total to $469,560.76 contributed to date. Eighteen Chapters
earned 100% Certificates for giving $1.00 or more per member.
Approximately 415 Royal Arch Masons and their ladies attended the Annual Banquet on
Wednesday evening. Among those attending were Miss Lauren Simmons, Grand Worthy Advisor
of Rainbow in Ohio, accompanied by her mother Jennifer; Mrs. Janice F. Morris, Supreme Deputy
for Rainbow and her husband Paul; Miss Gwen Ohlmacher, Miss Ohio Job's Daughter and Miss
Karen Ebrl, Grand Bethel Honored Queen, Job's Daughters of Ohio; Mrs. Kris Smith, Grand
Guardian and her husband Richard; Mr. Orville E. West, Associate Grand Guardian; Eric Small,
State Master Councilor of Ohio DeMolay; H. Jeffery Shaw, Executive Officer of DeMolay in
Ohio; Susan R. Dennis, Worthy Grand Matron of OES of Ohio and her husband Ray; Frank B.
Cliffton Worthy Grand Patron of OES of Ohio and his wife; and, Merlyn E. Meredith Grand
Recorder of the Grand Council, R&SM of Ohio and his wife Jane.
STATISTICS
Exalted 570; Admitted 46; Reinstated 53; Withdrawn 164; Died 651; Suspended 488.
Compared to last year, exaltations were up 217. The net loss for the year was 634 vs. 877 in 2006.
Membership as of May 31, 2007 was 18,875 Companions.
THE EARL C. GIFFORDDISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARDThe Earl C. Gifford Distinguished Service Award of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons
of Ohio was granted to:
J. Thomas Foor, Sr., born June 16, 1938 in Columbus, Ohio was a Supervisor of Mechanics
for the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority. Thomas is a Past Master of Barton Smith Lodge
No. 613, Past High Priest of Ft. Meigs Chapter No. 29, Past District Education Officer in 1994-
1997, Past Illustrious Master of Toledo Council No. 33 and a Past Commander of Toledo
Commandery No. 7. He received his KYCH in 1998 in Ohio Priory No. 18. He also is a member
of Allied Masonic Degrees (PSM), York Rite College (present Governor) the Order of Eastern
Star (past Worthy Patron) and the Valley of Toledo AASR, where he has worked for many years
in the 18th Degree.
Thomas is a U. S. Navy veteran and serves on the Northwood Planning Commission. He is a
member of the Eastminster Presbyterian Church where he serves as Deacon. He
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 127
served the Eighth District Association as President twice. His chapter recommended him for his
continued service to many Masonic organizations.
Larry R. Henderson, born July 25, 1951 in Greenville, Ohio is a retired Tax Map Draftsman
for Darke County. Larry is a member of Greenville Lodge No. 143, and Greenville Chapter No.
77. He is a local historian on Annie Oakley, a supporter of the Shrine Children’s Fund, an 18 and
one half gallon blood donor and very involved in local historical affairs. He has spent many hours
researching veterans that are buried in local cemeteries and applying for bronze markers from the
government. He has completed research on several cemeteries in the area and is working on many
more. He is a Veteran Dancer at Shawnee Indian Gatherings.
Donald served in the U. S. Navy. He is a member of Fort Jefferson United Methodist Church
of Greenville, Ohio. He is a Life Member of the Am-Vets and The Vietnam Vets of America. He
was an Eagle Scout and a member of the Greenville Bicentennial Commission.
Albert L. Jeffery, born March 9, 1939 in Homerville, Ohio is a retired Millwright. He is a Past
Master of West Salem Lodge No. 398 (2 times) and current Master, Past High Priest and current
Scribe of Oriental Chapter No. 128 (5 terms as High Priest), Past District Education Officer for the
10th Capitular District, Past Illustrious Master and current Chaplain of Ashland Council No. 128
and Past Commander and current Commander of Wooster Commandery No. 48 (2 terms as Past
Commander). He received his KYCH in 1997 in Ohio Priory No. 18. Albert is a member of the
Valley of Canton. He is also a member of the Order of Eastern Star (past Worthy Patron), Knight
Masons and the Royal Order of Scotland.
Albert has been very active in local youth sports organizations as an officer and umpire. He
organized the Homerville Township Historical Committee. He serves on the Akron Prostate
Cancer Board and received the “Volunteer –of-the-Year” Award from the Ashland County
American Cancer Society. His nominators point out that he is a positive influence in Masonry and
his community.
M. Neal Wheatcraft, born May 15, 1924 in New Lexington, Ohio is a retired Teacher of
chemistry, biology, and science in the Chagrin Falls school system.. He is a Past Master of
Golden Gate Lodge Lodge No. 245 (2 times), Past District Deputy Grand Master, Past High Priest
of Chagrin Falls Chapter No. 152 (2 times) and long-time secretary, Past Illustrious Master of
Windermere Council No. 113 and Past Commander of Oriental Commandery No. 12. He
received his KYCH in 1997 in Ohio Priory No. 18. He is also a member of the Valley of
Cleveland AASR and a Past Patron of the Order of Eastern Star (12 times). He is a tireless worker
for all of his Masonic bodies.
He is a member of the Chagrin Falls Methodist Church where he has serves as Administrator
and volunteers where needed. He also serves on the Chagrin Falls Cemetery Board. Neal also
served on the Golden Gate Masonic Temple Board for eight years and the Rainbow Board for ten
years, receiving the Rainbow Grand Cross of Colors in 1975. He is also a recipient of the Chagrin
Jaycee’s “Chagrin Valley Distinguished Service Award. His nominators pointed out that he
exemplifies the man for whom this Grand Chapter Award is named.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter128
DISTINGUISHED GUESTS
Distinguished Guests included Grand High Priests of Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio-Prince
Hall, Ontario, Canada, and Pennsylvania along with Past Grand High Priests from Indiana,
Kentucky (2), Michigan, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The General Grand High Priest from the
General Grand Chapter and two of his officers were also present. First time visiting Grand High
Priests were granted Honorary Membership in the Grand Chapter of Ohio. Additionally, several
other Grand Officers and Grand Representatives were present. Attendance from out-of-state was
excellent which was a tribute to the extensive travels of our immediate Past Grand High Priest
James M. McDonald.
The Grand Lodge, F&AM of Ohio was represented by Most Worshipful Brothers Michael J.
Himes, Grand Master and Ronald L. Winnett Deputy Grand Master and 3 District Deputies Grand
Master.
The Grand Council R&SM of Ohio was represented by Most Illustrious Companion Bobby G.
Campbell, the new Grand Master and the Immediate Past Grand Master James B. Parker, IV,
twelve other Grand Officers, 3 Arch Inspectors, 3 Arch Adjutants and 1 other Past Grand Master
were also present.
The Grand Commandery K.T. of Ohio was represented by Sir Knight Bruce D. Basil, Grand
Commander and Burch E. Zehner, Deputy Grand Commander along with 6 other Grand Officers,
5 Past Grand Commanders, and 2 Deputy Division Commanders.
Ohio Priory No. 18, Knights of the York Cross of Honor was represented by Eminent Prior
Alan D. Hart, plus 7 other officers, 2 District Deputies Prior and 7 Past Priors.
The Scottish Rite was represented by Most Worshipful Brother and Illustrious Brother Neil
M. Smalley, Deputy for Ohio, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite.
The Ohio Prince Hall Grand Royal Arch Chapter was represented by the current Grand High
Priest Charles V. Williams, III, an Honorary Past Grand High Priest and one other Grand Officer.LEGISLATION
The first resolution passed this year named Right Excellent Companion George Hall as Grand
Parliamentarian, Emeritus.
The second resolution passed this year granted a charter to Fayette Mark Lodge U.D. as Fayette
Mark Lodge No. 4.
The third resolution passed this year adopted the requirement that all chapters must use the new
Uniform Audit Report and present it to the District Deputy at the chapter’s Annual Inspection.
The new form will be distributed to chapter secretaries in the near future and it must be used
beginning with the fiscal year that ends on May 31, 2008.
INSPECTION DISTRICT AND REGIONAL ORGANIZATION
District Number Counties No. of Chapters
REGION A
Regional Officer - James W. Himmelright, Grand Principal Sojourner
1 Defiance, Fulton, Henry and Williams 5
8 Lucas, Ottawa, Wood 5
9 Erie, Huron, Sandusky (except Fremont No. 64) and Lorain 10
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 129
REGION B
Regional Officer- George M. Shell, Grand Royal Arch Captain
2 Allen, Auglaize, Mercer, Paulding, Putnam, Van Wert & Shelby 6
7 Hancock, Hardin, Marion, Seneca and Wyandot 8
10 Ashland, Crawford, Richland and Wayne 9
REGION C
Regional Officer - Robert W. Thomas, Grand Master of the Third Veil
4 Clermont, Hamilton, Clinton (except Wilmington #63), Brown 14
and Morrow #143 in Warren, and North Bend Mark Lodge #1
5 Adams, Fayette, Highland, Jackson, Lawrence, Pickaway, Ross and 8
Scioto and Fayette Mark Lodge No. 4
REGION D
Regional Officer - Donald L. Losasso, Grand Scribe
3 Butler, Darke, Greene, Miami, Montgomery, Preble, Lebanon #5 in 17
Warren, and Wilmington # 63 in Clinton
6 Champaign, Clark, Logan, Madison and Union 8
REGION E
Regional Officer -Donald W. Owens, Grand Master of the Second Veil
16 Cuyahoga, Summit-Baker #74 in Summit & Sr. DeMolay Mark Lodge 10
17 Medina, Portage and Summit (except forSummit-Baker #74) 6
20 Ashtabula, Geauga and Lake 7
REGION F
Regional Officer - Steven J. Oliver, Grand Captain of the Host
11 Delaware, Franklin, Knox, and Morrow 9
13 Athens, Fairfield, Gallia, Hocking, Meigs, Perry, Vinton & Washington 8
REGION G
Regional Officer -Robert D. Blankenhorn, Jr., Grand Master of the First Veil
14 Coshocton, Guernsey, Licking, Muskingum, and Nugen #124 in 6
(Tuscarawas County & Dwight Warehime Mark Lodge No. 3
15 Belmont, Jefferson, and Harrison 5
18 Carroll, Holmes, Stark and Tuscarawas (except Nugen #124) 6
19 Columbiana, Mahoning and Trumbull 10
DISTRICT DEPUTIES GRAND HIGH PRIEST
2007-2008
District
1 Joey E. Kidd, Sr. 14174 U. S. Route 127, Paulding, OH 45879
(wife Penny) Res. (419) 399-2997
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter130
2 Ronald L. Craft 5057 Pheasant Drive, Elida, OH 45807-1448
(wife Carol) Res. (419) 339-8022
3 H. Jeffery Shaw 2400 Bellsburg Drive, Dayton, OH 45459
(wife Pam) Res. (937) 436-3018 Bus. (937) 235-8449
John C. Watkins 1029 Kercher St., Miamisburg, OH 45342-1827
(wife Caroline) Res. (937) 866-3491 Bus.: (937) 866-3491
James C. Stephens, Jr. 851 Bishop Ave., Hamilton, OH 45015
Res. (513) 894-5426 Bus.: (513) 785-7371
4 Richard D. Hall 6604 Loveland-Miamiville Road, Loveland, OH 45140-8588
(wife Marjorie) Res. (513) 683-8675 Bus.: (513) 683-8675
Gerald W. Hughes 730 Wilbud Drive, Cincinniati, OH 45205
(wife Maxine) Res. (513) 921-2746
Thomas E. Williams 4134 Superior Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45236
(wife Joan) Res. (513) 793-1329
5 R. Keith O’Dell 712 Boyd Avenue, West Union, OH 45693
(wife Cindy) Res. (937) 544-7369 Bus. (740) 773-1671
6 J. Erick Bails P. O. Box 65, N. Lewisburg, OH 43060
(wife Jody) Res.. (937) 747-3940 Bus.: (937) 653-4848
7 David A. Young 211 Clinton Avenue, Tiffin, OH 44883
(wife Brenda) Res. (419) 447-2622
8 J. Keith Green. 2014 N. Ellison-Trowbridge Road, Graytown, OH 43432
(wife Debbie) Res. (419) 862-2063 Bus. (313) 594-0852
9 Larry R. Hess 774 West Shore Boulevard., Sheffield Lake, OH 44054
(wife Ida) Res. (440) 949-6965
10 Charles E. Bonecutter 65 Marvin Avenue, Shelby, OH 44875-1128
(wife Ruby) Res. (419) 347-6234
11 Stephen F. Miller 8853 Worthingwoods Place, Powell, OH 43065
(wife Margaret) Res. (614) 766-6471
Daniel S. Smith 1026 Zodiac Avenue, Gahanna, OH 43230
(wife Jean) Res. (614) 855-0114 Bus. (614) 355-3002
13 Larry E. Byrd 940 Walhonding Avenue, Logan OH 43138
(wife Sandy) Res. (740) 385-6139
14 William E. Channell 6385 Skyline Drive, Cambridge, OH 43725
(wife Betty) Res. (740) 432-7212
15 James C. Eckard 602 Daniels St, Toronto, OH 43964
(wife Mary) Res.: (740) 537-2826
16 Jeffrey L. Addis 9269 Shady Lake Drive #102, Streetsboro, OH 44241
Res. (330) 626-4910 Bus. (216) 986-8891
Robert R. Childers 25 Landings Way, Avon Lake, OH 44012
(wife Meldia) Res. (440) 930-2920
17 William A. Whittenberger 5950 Eagle Creek Road, Leavittsburg, OH 44430
(wife Barbara) Res. (330) 898-3406 Bus. (330) 527-0731
18 Glenn R. Greenamyer 719 Netherwood Avenue, N.W., Canton, OH 44708
(wife Sally) Res. (330) 478-1579
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 131
19 Randal E. Davis 434 Washington St. NE, Warren, OH 44483
(wife Karen) Res. (330) 395-8330 Bus. (330) 392-6276
20 Neal B. Forbes 9880 Ashley Lane, Mentor, OH 44060
(wife Norma) Res. (440) 352-3219 Bus.: (440) 259-3381
DISTRICT EDUCATION OFFICERS
2007-2008
1 Christian A. King P. O. Box 38, Archbold, OH 43502
2 Bernard J. Gehle 3885 Ada Road, Lima, OH 45801-1640
(wife Paula) Res. (419) 221-05123
David W. Slusher 4098 Calumet Circle, Mason, OH 45040
(wife Edna) Res. (513) 398-6534
Richard A. Grimes 4304 Cherry Grove Road, Xenia, OH 45385
(wife Beverly) Res. (937) 675-2165
Aaron C. Crawford 1626 Lindsay Drive, Miamisburg, OH 45324
(wife Judy) Res. (937) 859-6779
4 Darrell L. Duncan 6918 Monongahela Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45244
(wife Pamela) Res. (513) 271-0765 Bus. (513) 886-0765
George W. Taylor 9111 Red Cedar Drive, West Chester, OH 45069
(wife Ginger) Res. (513) 777-0580
Stanley J. Anderson 9994 Washington Ave., Loveland, OH 45140
(wife Lauri) Res. (513) 583-0046
5 Robert S. Jones 48 Eagle Court, Chillicothe, OH 45601-8133
(wife Suzanne) Res. (740) 779-0928
6 David G. Balderson 834 West Fourth St., Marysville, OH 43040
(wife Mary) Res. (937)-642-6393
7 Leo E. Garey 325 Center Street, Findlay, OH 45840
(wife Mary) Res. (419) 424-1955
8 Kim W. Sautter 14583 Dexter Falls Road, Perrysburg, OH 43551-6739
(wife Connie) Res. (419) 878-0637 Bus. (419) 322-7555
9 To Be Announced
10 Darrell R. Porter 72 Raymond Ave., Shelby, OH 44875-1141
(wife Marsha) Res. (419) 347-3736
11 John A. Spoff 38 E. Beachwold Blvd., Columbus, OH 43214
(wife Leslie) Res. (614) 268-0867
Donald M. Lynne 161 Colonial Way Circle, Columbus, OH 43235
(wife Joan) Res. (614) 888-6681
13 Wilson L. Browning 6088 Bernice Street, Amanda, OH 43102-9505
Res. (740)969-4801
14 David A. Mourer P. O. Box 1225, Cambridge, OH 43725-6225
(wife Darlene) Res. (740) 439-4569
15 Jean L. Davis P. O. Box 105, Shadyside, Ohio 43947
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter132
(wife Evalyn) Res. (740) 676-1279
16 Henry W. Rees 1467 North Gallatin Blvd., Brook Park, OH 44142
(wife Sue) Res. (216) 676-5456
Joel A. Otis 16 East Bel Meadows Lane, Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
Res. (440) 338-6111
17 William C. Young 287 Highland Ave., Wadsworth, OH 44281
Res. (330) 336-2434
18 Richard P. Snider, Sr. 3126 Sycamore Ave. S.E., Canton, OH 44707 - 1505
(wife Mary) Res.: (330) 484-6014
19 David W. Hyde 9271 King Graves Road, Warren, OH 44484
(wife Sandra) Res. (330) 856-3204
20 Mark A. Raupach 5803 Beach Drive, Mentor, OH 44060
(wife Laura) Res. (440) 257-6064
GRAND CHAPTER COMMITTEES FOR 2007-2008
RITUAL
Donald L. Losasso, Grand Scribe, Chairman Robert J. Draye, Grand King
Steven A. Duncan, PGHP F. Raymond Sharritts, Grand Chaplain
Jeffrey L. Addis, DDGHP 16th District Joseph J. Orosz, PDDGHP 16th District
FINANCE
Norman LoBell, PDDGHP 4th District, Chairman Robert J. Draye, Grand King
Donald L. Losasso, Grand Scribe Charles J. McCarty, PGHP, Grand. Treasurer
Dale G. Ray, Jr., PGHP, Grand Secretary
CHARTERS AND DISPENSATIONS
James M. McDonald, PGHP, Chairman Donald W. Owens, Grand Master 2nd Veil
James C. Stephens, Jr., DDGHP 3rd District Daniel S. Smith, DDGHP 11th District
William A. Whittenberger, DDGHP 17th District
MASONIC EDUCATION
Kermit V. Zimmerman, PGHP, Chairman Norman G. Lincoln, Grand Historian
Glen L. Opp, Grand Fraternal Correspondent Wayne S. Dill, PGHP
Randal E. Davis, DDGHP 19th District Henry A. Dodson, PDDGHP 3rd District
Donald E. Wilcox, PDDGHP 3rd District
MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE
Michael J. Spisak, Jr., PHP Cunningham #187, Chairman
George Hall, Gr. Parliamentarian, Emeritus Ross R. Black, II, PHP Cuyahoga Falls #225
David W. Leifer, PHP Willoughby #231 John Whitehouse, Jr., PHP Cunningham #187
LONG RANGE PLANNING COMMITTEE
James W. Himmelright, Gr. Prin. Sojourner, Chairman Robert J. Draye, Grand King
Donald L. Losasso, Grand Scribe Steven J. Oliver, Grand Captain of the Host
George M. Shell, Grand Royal Arch Captain Robert W. Thomas, Gr. Master Third Veil
Donald Owens, Gr. Master Second Veil Robert Blankenhorn, Jr., Gr. Master First Veil
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 133
YORK RITE COOPERATION
Steven J. Oliver, Grand Capt. of the Host, Chairman Robert J. Draye, Grand King
Donald L. Losasso, Grand Scribe Dale G. Ray, Jr., PGHP, Grand Secretary James
W. Himmelright, Gr. Principal Sojourner George M. Shell, Gr. Royal Arch Capt.
PUBLIC RELATIONS
Glen L. Opp, Gr. Fraternal Correspondent, Chairman J. Erick Bails, DDGHP 6th District
J. Keith Green, DDGHP 8th District Joey E. Kidd, Sr., DDGHP 1st District
David A. Young, DDGHP 7th District
TOPICAL REFERENCE
James W. Himmelright, Gr.Prin.Soj.Chairman Ronald Craft, DDGHP 2nd District
Charles E. Bonecutter, DDGHP 10th District Robert R. Childers, DDGHP16th District
James C. Eckard, DDGHP 15th District Glenn R. Greenamyer, DDGHP 18th District
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Alan D. Hart, PGHP , Chairman Jerry C. Crawford, PGHP, Honorary Chairman
William M. Berry, PGHP John W. Purdy, PGHP
Arthur E. Ross, PGHP
AWARDS PROGRAM
David L. Vassar, Grand Marshal, Chairman Herbert L. Clonch, Grand Guard
J. Erick Bails, DDGHP 6th District H. Jeffery Shaw, DDGHP 3rd District
John R. Hartsock, PDDGHP 6th District
MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
George M. Shell, Gr. Royal Arch Capt, Chairman R. Keith O’Dell, DDGHP 5th District
H. Jeffery Shaw, DDGHP 3rd District Daniel S. Smith, DDGHP 11th District
Thomas E. Williams, DDGHP 4th District
ROYAL ARCH MASON MAGAZINE
Robert W. Thomas, Grand Master of the 3rd Veil, Chairman
Randal E. Davis, DDGHP 19th District Glenn R. Greenamyer, DDGHP 18th District
William A. Whittenberger, DDGHP 17th District Neal B. Forbes, DDGHP 20th District
GRIEVANCE
Terry B. Meyers, PGHP, Chairman F. Raymond Sharritts, Grand Chaplain
Kermit V. Zimmerman, PGHP Richard D. Hall, DDGHP4th District
Gerald W. Hughes, DDGHP 4th District
PUBLICATIONS
Donald W. Owens, Gr. Master of the Second Veil, Chairman
Dale G. Ray, Jr., PGHP, Grand Secretary Wing Fun Chow, PDDGHP 4th District Ronald
L. Craft, DDGHP 2nd District Robert D. Blankenhorn, Jr., Gr. Master First Veil
CHARITY AND BENEVOLENCE
John R. Gartrell, PGHP, Chairman William M. Berry, PGHP
Robert D. Blankenhorn, Jr., Grand Master of the First Veil Wayne S. Dill, PGHP
F. Raymond Sharritts, Grand Chaplain Jean W. Justus, Jr., PGHP
Arthur T. Reeves, PGHP Gary L. LaRoche, PDDGHP 7th District
CONSTITUENT RETURNS
George M. Shell, Grand Royal Arch Captain, Chairman Steven A. Duncan, PGHP
Dale G. Ray, Jr., PGHP, Grand Secretary David L. Vassar, Grand Marshal
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter134
TIME AND PLACE
Robert J. Draye, Grand King, Chairman Donald L. Losasso, Grand Scribe
Charles J. McCarty, PGHP, Grand Treasurer Dale G. Ray, Jr., PGHP, Grand Secretary
Norman LoBell, Jr., PGHP
SYMBOLIC LODGE LIAISON
Robert W. Blankenhorn, Jr., Gr. M. First Veil, Chairman
Larry E. Byrd, DDGHP 13th District Larry R. Hess, DDGHP 9th District
Jerry L. Belt, PHP Marysville #99 Chester R. Kurtz, PHP Lafayette #60
ENDOWED MEMBERSHIP
Steven A. Duncan, PGHP, Chairman Dale G. Ray, Jr., PGHP, Grand Secretary
George M. Shell, Grand Royal Arch Captain Henry A. Dodson, PDDGHP 3rd District
Donald E. Wilcox, PDDGHP 3rd District
PAYROLL
Charles J. McCarty, PGHP, Grand Treasurer, Chairman
Neal B. Forbes, DDGHP 20th District Kenneth L. Crouch, PDDGHP 1st District
Norman LoBell, PDDGHP 4th District David W. Balderson, PHP Marysville #99
DISTINGUISHED GUESTS
John W. Purdy, PGHP, Chairman Robert D. Crabbs, PGHP
Steven A. Duncan, PGHP James M. McDonald, PGHP
Joe E. Worthington, PGHP
EXAMINING VISITING COMPANIONS
William M. Berry, PGHP, Chairman Jerry C. Crawford, PGHP
Chester W. Hammond, PGHP Charles H. Karth., PGHP
Arthur T. Reeves, PGHP
CREDENTIALS
John W. Hartsock, PDDGHP 6th District, Chairman
Harold K. Stimmel, PDDGHP 7th District Richard L. Boitnott, PHP New Carlisle #57
Joseph W. Hickman, PHP Marion #62 Herbert L. Phares, PHP New Carlisle #57
Richard W. Stewart, PHP Shawnee $237
YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS COMMITTEE
H. Jeffery Shaw, DDGHP 3rd District, Chairman F. Raymond Sharritts, Grand Chaplain
Don R. Lutz, Grand Musician R. Keith O’Dell, DDGHP 5th District
John H. Donohoo, PDEO 4th District
MASONIC HOME TRUSTEES
Dale G. Ray, Jr., PGHP, Gr. Secretary, Chairman
Kermit V. Zimmerman, PGHP Donald L. Losasso, Grand Scribe
COMPUTER AGE TECHNOLOGY
Herbert L. Clonch, Grand Guard, Chairman Norman G. Lincoln, Grand Historian
Jeffrey L. Addis, DDGHP 16th District Norman LoBell, PDDGHP 4th District
Kenneth D. Chamberlain, PHP Findlay #58 Thomas F. Zeigler, PHP McCutcheon #96
TELLERS
Herbert L. Clonch, Grand Guard, Chairman
Dist. 1 Haly No. 136
Dist. 2 St. Marys No. 51
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 135
Dist. 3 Friendship No. 245
Dist. 4 Blanchester No. 153
Dist. 5 LaGrange No. 68
Dist. 6 New Carlisle No. 57
Dist. 7 Garfield No. 150
Dist. 8 Fort Meigs No. 29
Dist. 9 Clyde No. 90
Dist. 10 Bucyrus No. 160
Dist. 11 Ohio No. 12
Dist. 13 McArthur No. 102
Dist. 14 Cambridge No. 53
Dist. 15 Bellaire No. 107
Dist. 16 Summit-Baker No. 74
Dist. 17 Portage No. 202
Dist. 18 Hiram No. 18
Dist. 19 Mahoning No. 10
Dist. 20 Western Reserve No. 8
COMMITTEES to be Appointed in Constituent Chapters
The proper management of your Chapter is not just the responsibility of the High Priest, but of
ALL of its Companions. Therefore it is necessary and important that the High Priest involve as
many Companions as possible by appointing them to the various committees that will insure that
the Chapter operates efficiently and effectively. It is also necessary that these committees be
active and that they report their progress regularly. Carefully place your Companions on
committees that will allow them to best utilize their talents for maximum results. Your Chapter
will be the beneficiary of their efforts.
The following is a listing of required and possible committees and/or appointments you may
want to make:
Finance Committee: This committee is required by code and must be appointed the night of
installation. It should consist of 3 members knowledgeable in finances. Refer to section 104.05 of
the Code. The duties of the committee are to audit the books and records of the Secretary and
Treasurer and to make due report on or before the Annual Convocation in June and to review the
annual budget on a regular basis.
Welfare Committee: This committee should consist of Companions with the time and
resources to visit with the Companions that have not paid their dues, those that are sick or in a
nursing home facility. This committee needs to recommend to the Chapter those who should have
their dues remitted.
Widows Committee: Appoint at least one Companion to maintain contact with the widows of
deceased Companions for the express purpose of inviting them to the various functions of the
Chapter and to keep them aware of the activities of the Chapter that involve the ladies.
Charities Committee: Charity is one of the tenants of Freemasonry. Appoint committee
members who are knowledgeable of our three charities: The Ohio Masonic
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter136
Home, Grand Chapter Royal Arch Foundation (Adopt America Network) and Royal Arch
Research Assistance (RARA). This committee’s main function is to plan for and manage fund
raising events, distribute literature about our charities to the Companions and to see that the funds
raised are delivered to the proper organization.
Reinstatement Committee: Appoint Companions that have the time and ability to meet with
those who have demitted, those wishing to demit or those who have been suspended. Find out
why the Companion has decided to quit and work with him toward reinstatement. This committee
works closely with and reports to the Welfare Committee.
Keeper of the Marks: Appoint one Companion to keep record of the marks submitted by the
new Companions and to maintain the Mark Book. He should also instruct the new Companions as
to the how and why of the Mark.
If a chapter consolidation takes place, it is the duty of the Keeper of the Marks along with the
Secretary of the chapter to obtain the Mark Book and all marks of the previous chapter, and keep
them with the records of the surviving chapter.
Publicity Committee: When a Chapter performs a special event, an officer installation,
awards night, etc., this committee is to see that the Companions are made aware of the event. This
Committee is responsible to see that the public is made aware of the special events of the Chapter
and any awards the Chapter may receive. This Committee works in conjunction with and reports
to the Grand Chapter Public Relations Committee. As it states in the Public Relations Section of
the Chapter Management Manual, we need “IMAGE and VISIBILITY WITH PRIDE”.
Membership Development Committee: Membership is our life blood. Without it we die.
This Committee needs to be well aware of the Membership Development section of the Chapter
Management Manual. It is their purpose to stimulate growth and improve morale of the members.
The Grand Chapter Membership Development Committee has ideas and resources that will assist
you in your duties. These committee members need to be good salesmen of Masonry.
Chapter Education Officer: This appointed position is important as the Chapter Education
officer can turn a boring meeting into a memorable event. The Chapter Education Officer needs to
know how and where to find topics to present to the Chapter on a regular basis. Based on the fact
that knowledge of the Fraternity is a valuable asset to this Companion, he should probably be a
Past High Priest, Past DDGHP or even a Past Grand Officer. He is to report to and work with the
District Education Officer and the Grand Chapter Education Committee.
Candidate Counselor: The Candidate Counselor should become as familiar with the new
candidates as possible. You must endeavor to make the new members feel welcome and necessary
to our cause. As Candidate Counselor, it is your duty to impart Light and Information to the
candidate above and beyond the lessons taught in the various Degrees. He needs to work closely
with the Chapter Education officer. Again, as in other cases, experience and Capitular knowledge
is essential.
Degree Directors: As indicated in my Grand Kings program, “the Degrees do not present
themselves.” A good cast is necessary, but without a good Degree Director to “pull it together”
the degree presentation will suffer. By our degrees, we present Light
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 137
and Knowledge to the candidates. The presentations are to be done correctly and professionally.
The Degree Director needs to be well aware of the FINE PRINT in the Ritual. Contained in the
Chapter Management Manual are many pages that will assist the Degree Director.
Chapter Historian: With the Grand Chapter Bicentennial “just around the corner”, it is more
important than ever that each Chapter updates or even creates a usable Chapter History. Appoint
one person to act as manager to work with a collection of Companions to see that this is done.
Items as follows should be included in the circumstances under which the Chapter was formed:
the date of dispensation, the date of the Charter, the date of institution, the dates of consecration
and dedication; a list of the charter members, a list of the original officers and any noteworthy
events or awards that occurred to the Chapter. A copy of the Chapter History is to be submitted to
the Grand Historian and the Grand Secretary. Further, the Grand Historian is always willing to
assist.
CHAPTER ADMINISTRATION
Opening the Chapter
As was stated in the Grand Kings presentation, the full form opening should always be done
when opening a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons. It is the duty of the DDGHP to observe the
Chapter during the opening for inspections. It, therefore, needs to be done by memory and
correctly. This means practice, practice, practice. It is permissible to open in short form if the
Royal Arch opening has been approved by the DDGHP and one of the other three degrees will be
opened in full form as part of an annual inspection or degree presentation. To open in an
extraordinary session, see page 33, Section 100.06 of the Grand Chapter Code.
Aprons are to be worn with PRIDE. Wear the proper apron as called for in the ritual on the
OUTSIDE of your jacket. Only those participating in the Mark Master, Past Master or Most
Excellent Master degrees are required to wear the white apron. Those observing may wear the
Royal Arch apron if they so choose.
Due-Guards and Signs are to be given accurately and crisply. In each degree in the Ritual, the
proper method of giving the signs and due-guards is fully explained. It is also important that they
are given at the proper time during the opening or in the degree work. It is suggested that the
Chapter Education Officer should present a program on the proper presentation of the signs and
due-guards.
Veils Men and the Arch This is a very important part of the Royal Arch Degree. This arch is,
however, different from the arch in the Royal Arch opening. Read the note on page 129 of the
Ritual for the proper presentation of the Arch.
Business of the Chapter
Companions that attend your meetings deserve interesting Chapter Education Officer
presentations, degree practice or conferral or topics of discussion that provoke conversation and
enthusiasm. Plan your meetings and hand out agendas to those present. Remember, have
refreshments after the meeting, not a dinner, but refreshments. The social time in the dining room
creates an atmosphere of friendship and brotherhood that will keep your Companions coming back
for more.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter138
Resource Courses
As High Priest of your Chapter, it is important that you promote The Royal Arch Resource
Courses I and II. These are provided by the Grand Chapter Committee on Masonic Education and
are administered by the District Deputy Grand High Priest. This is a method whereby a
Companion taking the course can learn to properly use the Ritual, Chapter Management Manual,
Code and Constitution of the Grand Chapter. Completion of these courses will provide more
informed officers for your Chapter.
INFORMATION
Communications
It is requested that each Constituent Chapter Secretary and High Priest is prompt in answering
all communications. Requests for supplies, educational materials and service awards are to be
submitted directly to the Grand Secretary.
Requests for approval of By-Laws must be approved by your District Deputy Grand
High Priest for form and substance before mailing. Please note that changes in By-Laws which do
nothing but change fees or dues, or change the specified time (or date) of stated meetings, do not
need to be approved by the Grand High Priest. When approval is needed, the request should be
mailed directly to the Grand High Priest, not to the Grand Secretary.
Dispensations
All requests for dispensations should be forwarded to the District Deputy Grand High Priest,
who will review them and if warranted will forward same to the Chairman of the Jurisprudence
Committee. i.e. : Michael J. Spisak, Jr., 11382 Worthington Way, North Royalton, OH 44133.
If it is a proper request and in proper form, the Jurisprudence Committee will forward the
dispensation form to the Grand High Priest for signature. Any deviation from this process will
cause undue delays. Allow at least one month for processing.
Religious Re-Affirmation Sunday
Religious Re-Affirmation Sunday should be observed in each District on Sunday, October 21,
2007. Activities of the day will be under the direction of the District Deputy Grand High Priest
with the assistance of the District Association. Those chapters not represented are required to
conduct their own services. Reports from each chapter are to be sent through the District Deputy
Grand High Priest to the Grand Chaplain.
Why do we have a Religious Reaffirmation Sunday? Because it was instituted by the General
Grand Chapter in 1797 as a day on which all Royal Arch Masons in the United States would be
attending a church service at approximately the same time. This first service took place on
Sunday, October 24, 1798. We, therefore as Royal Arch Masons, reaffirm our solemn vow to
Almighty God on the Sunday nearest to that date in October.
This is a special event that is to be celebrated as a District or Chapter event, with the ladies and
families. Incorporate a religious service with a social event. Collect an offering and make a
contribution to a Masonic or local charity. Be sure to submit the Religious Re-Affirmation
Service Report Form to the Grand Chaplain.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 139
Royal Arch Schools
Each DDGHP and Chapter Education officer is charged with the responsibility of promoting
Masonic Education at the Chapter level. Our strength and existence depends on WELL
INFORMED and EDUCATED MASONS. The lessons left by our Masonic Forefathers are
various and many. It is not a requirement but rather a responsibility that we do our best to see that
our Companions have the opportunity to receive these lessons and increase their Masonic
knowledge.
There are many Companions available to come to your Chapter or District to present the various
lessons and topics. Contact your Grand Chapter Committee of Masonic Education to assist you
with the presentation of these important lessons.
Awards
All awards given in recent years will be continued this year. These awards include: Sojourner,
District Work Horse, Outstanding High Priest, Outstanding Chapter in the District, Most Improved
Chapter in the District, No Loss Award of Distinction, and the Star Award to Chapters with 3% or
more net gain.
Four recipients in the entire state will receive “The Earl C. Gifford Distinguished
Service Award" from the Grand Chapter. It will be awarded at the Grand Convocation’s Grand
Banquet. These nominations must be submitted through your District Deputy Grand High Priest
and these recommendations must be in the hands of the Grand Chapter Awards Committee (i.e.
David L. Vassar, 529 Oakwood Drive, Bellefontaine, OH 43311), by June 30, 2008.
**NEW AWARD CONTINUED** I have elected to continue the Grand High Priest Award
as created by Most Excellent Companion James McDonald last year. This award is intended to
reflect the leadership ability of the Chapter High Priest, but will require the cooperation of all of
the Chapter Companions to earn the award. Any Chapter that accomplishes the requirements of
the award criteria will receive an attractive award to display in your Chapter room.
The following are the criteria that will be considered for the presentation of this award. At
least 7 of #’s 1-11 and #12 are the minimum for the receipt of this award.
1. Increasing your members in attendance at your inspection.
2. Having a new Candidate for your inspection.
3. Having a social event with your Ladies.
4. Presentation of an Award of Recognition to a non-Masonic member of the Community.
5. Make a contribution to one of a combination of our youth organizations equal to $1.00
per Chapter member.
6. Presenting a Chapter Meritorious Service Award to an outstanding Companion,
preferably not an officer.
7. Charitable contributions equal to or exceeding $1.00 per Chapter member to R.A.R.A.,
The, Royal Arch Foundation, The Ohio Masonic Home or a combination of any of the
three.
8. Having no controllable membership losses.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter140
9. Secure five additional petitions from the Grand Master’s One Day Class of 2007.
10. Submit of an Earl C. Gifford Meritorious Service Award nomination for a deserving
Companion in your Chapter.
11. Having an average of four Companions attending each inspection in your District.
12. The High Priest must be present at the 2008 Grand Convocation to receive the Award.
Christmas and Holy Week
These are two weeks during the active Capitular year that need to be respected. They are
times to spend with Family and the Great Architect of the Universe. Regular scheduled meetings
need to be held. No special meetings. Keep business to a minimum. No Degree work is to be
conferred during these two weeks. For the upcoming Capitular year, the dates are December 23-
29 for the Christmas week observance and March 16-23, 2008 for the Holy Week Observance.
GRAND CHAPTER Promotional Material
Additional copies of the Red Roster of Chapters and the Annual Proceedings may be secured
through the office of the Grand Secretary. Red Rosters are $1.00, Proceedings are $7.00 per copy
(plus any shipping), while they last.
A copy of Bulletin No. 1 is provided to the High Priest, King, Scribe and Secretary of each
Chapter.
A number of Promotional Pamphlets and congratulatory folders are available from the office
of the Grand Secretary. A complete list of these may be found in the price list mailed to all
Secretaries.
Videos - Saga of the Holy Royal Arch
An Unheard Cry (these videos are available from the General Grand
Secretary, PO Box 489, Danville KY 40423-0489
"Long Sought Word" ($9.00 per hundred),
Twenty-five Year Cards (free), Tau Cards and Triple Tau Cards (free),
Chapter Management Manual ($8.00 each), Chapter Officer Manual ($1.00 each), Revised Code,
Ceremonies & Forms
(Contents $7.00, Binder $3.50)
York Rite promotional material, petitions for degrees, York Rite Passports, etc. may also be
obtained from the Grand Secretary, making all payments for this material to the Joint York Rite
Cooperation Committee.
York Rite Secretary-Recorders Association
The York Rite Secretary-Recorders Association in Ohio serves a most welcome purpose. Here
the Secretaries are given the opportunity to discuss mutual problems and exchange ideas. This
exchange of ideas and presentation of valuable experiences and suggestions is of immeasurable
benefit to each Constituent Chapter. Each Constituent Chapter is urged to send its Secretary to the
meetings of this Association at the expense of the Constituent Chapter.
The next annual meeting will be in Delaware, Ohio on August 16, 2008.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 141
Twenty Five Year Cards
Constituent Chapters are encouraged to recognize their 25-year members. Twenty-five year
cards are available from the Grand Secretary's office, on request, at no charge. Twenty-five year
pins may be purchased from many Masonic supply houses.
50, 60 & 65-Year Emblems
The Grand Secretary's office has reminded (with the Secretary's bulletin) the names of the
Companions eligible for these awards. Requests for presentation must be made by the Chapter
Secretary to the Grand Secretary.
The pins will be forwarded to your District Deputy Grand High Priest who will make the
necessary arrangements for presentation with the High Priest. The High Priest and Secretary are
to make arrangements with the companions for the presentation. Remember, when pins are
presented in an open chapter, the member is to be extended the Grand Honors of the Fraternity at
the Altar. (If a public ceremony, extend Grand Honors after nonmembers have been dismissed.)
Please make these presentations earlier in the Capitular Year rather than later.
Grand Historian
I highly encourage each Constituent Chapter to write or update its history. If you need any
assistance, contact our Grand Historian. This year the Grand Chapter is very fortunate to have a
very knowledgeable Companion with expertise, qualifications, and background in the writing and
research of Royal Arch Masonry and other Masonic Bodies. He is most willing and stands ready
to assist any Companions in researching and writing their Chapter history. Do not hesitate in
contacting our Grand Historian, Norman G. Lincoln. Each Constituent Chapter should send a
copy of the completed history to the Grand Historian and the Grand Secretary.
York Rite Cooperation
Please make every effort to cooperate with the other York Rite Bodies in your area. Among
the positive ways to cooperate are the following:
Schedule degrees so that Councils and Commanderies can conveniently arrange for their
degrees and orders.
Respect the other bodies' schedules.
Participate in York Rite Festivals.
We must sell York Rite Masonry to our Symbolic Lodge Brethren. We need to tell them that the
lessons learned in the York Rite build on what they have learned in Blue Lodge. Visitations to
your local Blue Lodges is a very good way to get this word to them by your example or by talking
up York Rite Masonry. We must sell York Rite Masonry!
Festivals
York Rite Festivals have, over the years, become a valuable part of York Rite Masonry. They
are valuable as they allow petitioners to receive the degrees when they could not be present at
convocations in the chapter. Degrees that have not been completed may be “cleaned up” before
the end of the Capitular Year. In many locations, Chapter and Council Degrees and Commandery
Orders may be completed in one day. Festivals, when done properly, permit a candidate to see the
best of what the York Rite has to offer in the way of excellent ritual work, staging, robbing, make-
up and music.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter142
But in no way are festivals intended to take the place of degree work being done in the Constituent
Chapters. Each degree must be done each year in all chapters.
Charities
Charity is one of the Tenants of Freemasonry. We as Capitular Masons, have specific Charities
that we wish to support.
Exclusive to Ohio is our newly re-formatted Ohio Masonic Home System. We are all well
aware of the “Home on the Hill”. It has now grown to three separate campuses: The Springfield
Masonic Community at Springfield, Ohio, The Browning Masonic Community at Waterville,
Ohio and the Western Reserve Masonic Community at Medina. These are three fantastic and
well-operated senior residential complexes that we all should be very proud of and very willing to
support. A new part of The Masonic Home System is the relatively new I-Care/Masonic Senior
Services programs. A program whereby our seniors can be assisted in their homes and remain self-
supportive. Visit the Ohio Masonic Home website for further information. Make donations
through the Grand Secretary’s office.
Also exclusive to Ohio, is the Royal Arch Foundation (RAF), which supports the Adopt
America Network (AAN). The RAF was formed at the 186th Convocation of the Grand Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons. Through many hours of effort by Most Excellent Companion Robert D.
Crabbs, PGHP and others, his dream for an Ohio charity became reality. The Foundation has
since contributed nearly $90,000.00 to the AAN. This is a special organization that arranges the
adoption of “special needs” children to families that can make a difference in these children’s
lives. Contributions are to be made directly to the RAF at P.O. Box 511, Shelby, OH 44875.
Annually in October, the AAN holds a Dinner Auction in Toledo. You are invited to attend
the event to support the activities of the AAN. Contact Most Excellent Companion Wayne S. Dill
at 734-782-5204 for additional information. Just as Most Excellent Companions Zimmerman and
McDonald supported a charity auction for the RAF at their Grand Sessions, I also will promote the
event at the 192nd Annual Convocation in 2008. More information will be forthcoming.
Also, please support the Royal Arch Research Assistance program, which is dedicated to the
Able Kids Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping children with Central Auditory
Processing Disorders. Make any donations through the Grand Secretary’s office.
Youth Organizations
We have an obligation to support and cooperate with our youth groups. As I stated in my Grand
Kings program, the DeMolay, Jobs Daughters and Rainbow youth are good, responsible young
men and ladies. They are our future and we are to be very proud of them. Give them time,
support and financial assistance. Attend their events and be prepared to be amazed at their
dedication and confidence. They are proof that there are good young people in this world and they
are part of Masonry!
Grand Chapter Web Site
Through no fault of any one individual, the Grand Chater Web Site has fallen on some hard
times. Since the operation of the Web Site is a major responsibility, we have appointed the Grand
Chapter Computer Age Technology Committee to take over the
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 143
Webmaster duties. Our thanks go to those Companions that have worked hard as Webmasters.
You have given us a very nice Web Site. It is now our duty to maintain it. The web site address
remains as: ohiograndchapter.org.
Conclusion
As I write this, I am still Grand King and Most Excellent Companion McDonald is the Grand
High Priest. By the time you read this, hopefully with your support, I will be Grand High Priest of
the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons in Ohio. The last twelve years has been a journey that
has taken Virginia and myself to places we never thought we would visit and we have had the
opportunity
to meet some of the best people in the world. Actually, we meet very good people every day.
As I traveled as the Grand King this past five months, it was hard work, but it was fun and
exciting. I thank each of you for the warm welcome you gave me. You listened and paid
attention and I thank you for that.
My theme of CHART A COURSE FOR THE FUTURE, WE’LL NEVER REACH OUR
DESTINATION IF WE NEVER TRY, should be a way of life for all of us. And not just in
Masonry, but even in our everyday life. Planning or CHARTING A COURSE is necessary. My
challenge to you is to prepare for what is ahead by setting a COURSE of action, communicating
with the Crew and seeing that each Crewmember, including you the Captain, performs the duties
assigned to your office. It is that simple and we will all have a good and successful year.
We have a year ahead of us with a lot of knowns and most certainly, some unknowns. I am up
to the Challenge, are you? As we like to say, “A bad day on the Boat is still better than a good day
in the office”. And any day we participate in a Masonic function is a good day, especially if we
learn from the experience. However…because we anticipate an enjoyable cruise for the next
twelve months, let us remember to take our families with us. Do not overburden yourselves and
miss the family who is around.you. We can include them in so many things we do as Masons and
we should.
We have no Master Masons class to enjoy this year, but we still have the results of last year’s
class to help strengthen our numbers. You know who these new Master Masons are. ALL WE
HAVE TO DO IS ASK! All of these new Master Masons are looking for more Light and
Information! Their young minds deserve the opportunity to receive the same Knowledge that you
received when someone took the time to ask you.
Both Most Excellent Companion Zimmerman and Most Excellent Companion McDonald have
set the bar pretty high these past two years by their words and actions. They have traveled well
and have given us GOOD AND WHOLESOME INSTRUCTION. I will tell you now that I am
still gainfully employed and my travels will be somewhat limited, but do not despair, you will see
me!
This honor you have bestowed upon me is beyond words. I chose to do what was expected of
me and here I am. Because of your confidence, I am motivated and enthused. Years ago my
Daddy (a fifty year Mason) told me “if you are going to do something, do it right!”. Well, here is
our chance! If we do something this next year, then let us do it right!
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter144
Remember, WE’LL NEVER REACH OUR DESTINATION IF WE NEVER TRY!
Given under my signature and the seal of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons in the State
of Ohio at Huntsville, Ohio this 10th day of October, 2007.
Fraternally,
Garis E. Pugh
Grand High Priest
Attest: Dale G. Ray, Jr.Grand Secretary
________________________________________
GRAND HIGH PRIESTGaris E. Pugh
9527 Lakeshore Drive EastHuntsville, Ohio 43324
Phone: Home: (937) 842-3747Bus.: (937) 843-3328
GRAND SECRETARY'S OFFICEDale G. Ray, Jr.
Alexander Commons Suite 401564 West Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton, OH 44203(Home: 1031 Wilbur Ave., Barberton, OH 44203)
Phone: Home: (330) 753-5469Office: (with answering machine) 330-753-3670
FAX: 330-753-3673e-mail:[email protected]
Chairman of Masonic JurisprudenceMichael J. Spisak, Jr.
11382 Worthington WayNorth Royalton, Ohio 44133Phone: Home (330) 220-4824
Bus.: (216) 363-1400
________________________________________
GRAND CHAPTER OF ROYAL ARCH MASONS OF THE STATE OF OHIOBULLETIN NO. 2Barberton, Ohio
December 3, 2007
This Bulletin must be read or summarized in open Chapter at the first stated Convocation after itsreceipt.
To: Grand Officers, Past Grand High Priests, District Deputies and Representatives of ConstituentChapters in the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Ohio
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 145
From Your Grand High Priest:
Here we are, already over one month into our Capitular year. Where has the time gone? We
have been honored to be part of the Grand Commandery Annual Convocation and to be in
attendance at the Grand Lodge of F. & A.M. of Ohio in Cincinnati. What a stormy night we had
on Thursday in downtown Cincinnati and the tornado sirens went off. There was no lack of items
for conversation the next morning.
One of our first official duties was to present a seventy year membership plaque and certificate
to Companion Donald Gumpert, a Companion of Urbana Chapter No. 34 who lives in
Bellefontaine. It was special for me, as I have known this Companion for over thirty years. In
fact, we were neighbors for quite some time.
My Grand Marshal and my Grand Aide have been traveling with me and I thank them for their
company. And, of course, the Lovely and Talented Lady Virginia and Lady Judy have made a few
trips as well. Where would we be without our Ladies? We thank them and we love them.
We represented the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons at the Reception for Most Illustrious
Companion Bobby G. Campbell and by the time you read this we will have done the same at the
Reception of Right Eminent Grand Commander Burch E. Zehner. I am very proud to serve with
these two outstanding York Rite Masons. And certainly, we congratulate our new Eminent Prior,
Knight Donald Shoemaker. As I look back in my years as a York Rite Mason, these Companions
were always at the same meetings or functions that I attended. Perhaps there is a reason we are all
working together at this level.
We have visited a few Chapters already and have seen exceptional degree work. I have always
said that the degree work in the various chapters in this state is second to none. Even when the
membership is only 50-60 Companions, the desire to excel is as great there as it is in a chapter
with 300 companions. We have a story to tell and so far you are telling that story in VERY
AMPLE FORM! If I may add a comment; please remember a prompter is necessary to do good
work. Even the best actor occasionally forgets his lines. Forgetting your lines is noting to be
embarrassed about, but having no prompter is.
Just last week we had the pleasure to attend the Deputy School as presented by our Grand
Master Most Worshipful Brother Ronald L. Winnett. I will add that he “Has It Together”. This
was a very good meeting. Most especially is a new Leadership training program that he is
promoting for this coming year. We in the York Rite will hear more of this very soon.
The first weekend in November took us to Canton for the Annual KYCH meeting and to
Marshall Chapter in Elyria for a Dedication Service of their new Apartments. What was in store
for us when we arrived in Elyria, we could never have imagined. Meeting us at the door was
Right Excellent Companion James W. Himmelright, who informed us that just minutes before we
arrived, “We lost a Deputy”.
What he was referring to was that Right Excellent Companion Larry R. Hess, District Deputy
Grand High Priest of the 9th Capitular District, suffered an apparent heart attack during the lunch
break of a four-degree day event at Marshall Chapter. Through the quick actions of Right
Excellent Companion Himmelright and others in attendance, Right
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter146
Excellent Companion Hess was taken by a rescue squad to the local hospital and survived the
apparent heart attack. The rest of the afternoon went on as planned, but no one there had their
mind fully on the Capitular events in progress. However, even with the stressful situation, the
Royal Arch Degree was presented to five candidates in very good form. All who were present
during this time of stress and strife stepped forward, re-grouped and conducted themselves in such
a manner that I will never forget. You are to be very proud of yourselves!
On the 9th and 10th of November, we were honored to be a part of Masonic History in Ohio.
This was the Fall Reunion in the Valley of Dayton where the class honorees were the Grand
Presiding Officers of the York Rite in Ohio, all of which are members of the Valley of Dayton.
This was the 255th class in the Valley of Dayton and never before have all of the current York
Rite Grand Presiding Officers been members of the Valley. This may have been a first not only in
Dayton but in the entire state as well.
We remember our theme of Chart a Course for the Future, We’ll Never Reach Our Destination
if We Never Try. What I have seen so far indicates to me that you are doing just that. We have
seen enthusiasm and loyalty to our Fraternity. You companions have strived to excel in the degree
presentations and you have. There have been “real” candidates everywhere we have visited. The
only down side is attendance. By staying home companions, you have deprived yourselves of an
enjoyable afternoon or evening, and you have insulted the desire of those in attendance who wish
to make a difference.
Masonry is a team effort. Be a part of the TEAM!
Lady Virginia and I offer to all of you our Warmest Wishes for a safe and happy holiday
season!
Given under my signature and seal of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons in the State of
Ohio in Huntsville, Ohio on this 30th day of November, 2007.
Garis E. PughGrand High Priest
From the Grand Chapter Charities:
Ohio Masonic Home
Key events for The Ohio Masonic Home’s subsidiary corporations are as follows:
May 3 – District Barbecue at Browning Masonic Community in Waterville
July 26 – Browning Masonic Community Cruise-In, Waterville
Sept. 7 – Ohio Masonic Home Day, Springfield Campus
Sept. 15/16 – Jim Perry Legends Golf Classic, Fairborn
Also, the third Western Reserve Renaissance Faire in Medina will be held in October. Dates will
be announced shortly.
Ohio Masonic Home Day in Springfield on September 7 will be the culminating event
celebrating the Bicentennial of Ohio Freemasonry. Time capsules from each Masonic District will
be deposited in a special new memorial location.
Contributions to the Home should be sent through the Grand Secretary’s Office so that your
chapter receives the proper credit. Checks should be made out to The Ohio Masonic Home.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 147
Royal Arch Foundation-Adopt America Network
Adopt America network is thrilled to share that we have helped to place 192 children so far in
2007. It has been with the help and support of the Royal Arch Masons that we have been able to
accomplish so much. Just think of it…you have helped us see that over 200 children will
celebrate this Christmas with a family of their own. These kids lives are changed forever, and all
of us can go to bed at night knowing that we played a big part in making it happen.
One of the ways that RAM helped AAN is through the support of our annual dinner auction on
October 12th. As a sponsor of the event, the Masons helped make it possible for every dollar
raised that night to go directly into adoption programs that serve children and families. When
Grand High Priest Garis Pugh presented a check for $13,500.00, there was great applause and
profound gratitude. This is critical support and we pledge to continue to use every dollar wisely.
On December 7th, AAN will host its annual family Christmas party. Families who have
adopted children from foster care with the help of AAN are invited to an evening of celebration.
The smiling faces of all of the children tell the story and by the end of the night, there is not a dry
eye in the house. Royal Arch Masons will be helping to prepare and serve the meal and to assist
with set up and clean up. It seems that the Masons have the most fun when they are helping Santa
call out the name of each child as they receive their gift.
For the children you are helping find families, I thank you.
Wendy Spoerl, President
Adopt America Network
Contributions to Adopt America should be sent to The Royal Arch Foundation, P. O. Box 511,
Shelby, Ohio 44875. Checks should be made out to The Royal Arch Foundation.
Royal Arch Research Assistance
At the 191st Convocation of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the State of Ohio
held in Sandusky, Ohio on October 3 and 4, 2007, the Phillip E. Engle R.A.R.A. Excellence
Award was presented to Twin Valley Chapter #240, R.A.M. This chapter was recognized for
contributing $1.00 per member for 23 consecutive years to Royal Arch Research Assistance. The
award was presented by the Executive Director of RA.R.A., Most Excellent Companion James B.
Wall, who resides in Louisville, Kentucky.
Fort Collins Respite Care and the Able Kids Foundation co-sponsored the I AM ABLE day in
celebration of outstanding artists that contributed art pieces for the I AM ABLE Art Extravaganza.
This is the first art contest for students with disabilities. Art from children who receive services
from these organizations were displayed and all students received a medal along with recognition
of their participation in this event.
According to Dr. Joan Burleigh, director for Able Kids Foundation, the staff at the Central
Auditory Diagnostic Center has evaluated many children and adults from across this country,
along with children from China, Japan and the Netherlands. She says they have spent a great deal
of time establishing initial contact, assessing protocols and
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter148
procedures and treatment programs that allow for effective and successful management protocols
for clients that travel distances to be evaluated and managed at this Center.
Please continue sending in your contributions to the Grand Secretary’s office for proper credit
and make your checks payable to Royal Arch Research Assistance or RARA.
John R. Gartrell, Chairman, Charity & Benevolence Committee
Other Items of Interest:
Changes to the Red Roster: New Secretaries have been elected or are pro-teming in three
chapters. In Hamilton No. 21, the new Secretary Pro-Tem is Gary A. Blade,1285 Roundhill
Drive, Hamilton, Ohio 45013, Phone (513) 893-0908 . In New Lexington No.149, the new
Secretary Pro-Tem is Harry A. Willey, P. O. Box 2067, Heath, Ohio 43056, Phone (740) 522-
2983. In Cadiz No. 171, the new Secretary Pro-Tem is Riley S. Cassell, 317 St. Clair Avenue,
Cadiz, Ohio 43907, Phone (740) 942-8307874-2828.
From the Grand Secretary:
** ATTENTION Secretaries and Treasurers **
We have received several questions concerning the new “Electronic Filing Requirement for
Organizations With Gross Receipts of $25,000 or Less”. In the past, non-profit fraternal groups [
501c(10) organizations like our chapters ] did not have to file any tax return if their Gross receipts
were less than $25,000. The Pension Protection Act of 2006 now requires that you file an
electronic notice stating that your gross receipts were less than $25,000 for tax periods beginning
after December 31, 2006. (Of course, if your gross receipts were more than $25,000 you file a
normal tax return.) What we have learned from the IRS concerning this filing requirement is
summarized below:
If your fiscal year is June 1 to May 31, as most chapters should be, the first filing year for you
would be for the June 1, 2007 to May 31, 2008 year. Thus, you would file after May 31, 2008, by
the 15th of the fifth month after the close of your tax period (May 31, 2008) and thus be due no
later than October 15, 2008. We recommend filing as soon after May 31, 2008 as possible.
The filing must be electronically submitted. If you do not have a computer that is on-line, one
IRS agent suggested that you could go to your local library.
The filing would include: Organization Name (American Union Chapter No. 1), Mailing address,
Website address, if applicable, your EIN Number which should be on your bank accounts, the
name of the principal officer of your chapter, your annual tax period and verification that your
gross receipts are still normally less than $25,000.
I recommend that you double check your EIN number with your bank accounts. You want to
ensure that the account was not opened with someone’s Social Security Number.
Note that the above information is what we have gleaned from the documents that came from the
IRS and from calls placed to the number on the notification letter. It represents our best opinion,
but may not be totally accurate. If we learn more, we will include it in future bulletins. The best
policy is to check with your accountant, auditor or the IRS directly.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 149
Please note that we are required to file annually, with the IRS, a list of our subsidiaries and
their EIN numbers, so they are aware of who you are and will expect to be hearing from you.
Dale G. Ray, Jr.Grand Secretary
___________________________________
GRAND CHAPTER OF ROYAL ARCH MASONSOF THE STATE OF OHIO
BULLETIN NO. 3Barberton, Ohio
February 15, 2008
This Bulletin must be read or summarized in open Chapter at the first stated Convocation after itsreceipt.
To: Grand Officers, Past Grand High Priests, District Deputies and Representatives of ConstituentChapters in the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Ohio:
From Your Grand High Priest:
Happy New Year! Here it is the end of January already! Time has gone by very fast and we
have enjoyed every moment of it. Since I wrote Bulletin No 2, the Sixth Capitular District hosted
our statewide Grand High Priests reception in Springfield. It was well attended by Companions
and their guests from all over the State and we had a very good time. Those who were in
attendance enjoyed a very good dinner, good entertainment and a few laughs. They were also
privileged to witness the presentation of the “Grand Step Stool” to the Grand High Priest. I do
believe a “good time was had by all”.
We safely made it through the Holiday season, visited with friends and family and of course,
ate too much. I was able to represent the Grand Chapter at a special Christmas observance hosted
by Dayton and Reed Commanderies at the Dayton Masonic Temple. Also present was our
Illustrious Grand Master and our Right Eminent Grand Commander.
If you remember from Bulletin No.2, I wrote about REC Larry Hess, DDGHP of the Ninth
Capitular District and his adventure in early November. Well, Larry did have a heart attack but he
is home now and recovering, slowly but he is recovering. Let us keep him in our prayers.
We continue to visit throughout the state at various functions and we continue to see good
degree presentations. In most cases the candidates are true candidates. Very few pro-tem
candidates have been used. This is wonderful. Keep up the good work!
My traveling Companions and I have been very impressed with some of the Masonic Temples
and Centers we have visited. They are well maintained and the furnishings have been fantastic.
These buildings are a public symbol of what we are. Pride of ownership comes from hard work
and dedication and that is what we have observed so far.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter150
Not all of our letters and e-mail have been of a positive nature. There have been a few
situations that have taken a turn that has not been for the benefit of the Fraternity. It is apparent
that generally these situations can heal themselves with an attitude of “let cooler heads prevail”.
We all have a connection through our fraternity but each of us has a singular personality that
sometimes loses sight of our obligations. I urge all of us to review those obligations and strive to
improve our fraternity and our friendships. Remember the first of the three great principles of
Freemasonry is Brotherly Love. Let it prevail!
We have received notice that Alliance Chapter No. 83 will be consolidating with Canton
Chapter No. 84. The paperwork is not totally complete and we have mixed emotions on this
action. However, the Grand Chapter and its officers will support these Companions because this is
an effort to survive and not disappear.
We have been part of a number of 50 year pin and card presentations and we thank those
Companions who have taken the time to arrange the presentations. My Companions, fifty years of
loyalty to this Fraternity is a tremendous achievement. Make sure you acknowledge those who
have accomplished this.
Shortly after writing the last bulletin I received news from Right Excellent Companion James
W. Himmelright, Grand Principal Sojourner, that a part of the Valley of Akron’s Spring Reunion
will be the presentation of the Mark Master Degree after the completion of the 32nd Degree. This
is truly Masonic Cooperation at its best. If anyone asks you to assist do so. This is Masonic
History in the making.
And speaking of Masonic History in the making, on Sunday January 27, 2008, an historic event
took place in Jeffersonville, Ohio. I was privileged to preside over, with the assistance of the
Grand Officers, the ceremony of Constitution of Fayette Mark Master Lodge No. 4. There were
nearly 65 Brothers and guests in attendance who were able to be a part of this moment of history.
We now are in the heart of the inspection season. Not only for Chapters but for Symbolic
Lodges, Councils and Commanderies. Support our fellow Masonic organizations. We need each
other to survive.
Maintain the COURSE FOR THE FUTURE that we have seen in our visitations. The
COURSE has been straight and true. The ports of call have been filled with ENTHUSIAM,
PRIDE and FRIENDSHIP. The skippers and the crews have shown us that they are aware of their
duties and responsibilities. If the remainder of this cruise is as good as the first leg of the journey,
then I will assure you that YOU WILL REACH OUR DESTINATION BECAUSE YOU ARE
GIVING IT A VERY GOOD TRY!
May God Bless each and everyone throughout your travels for this Great Fraternity.
Given under my signature and the seal of The Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the
State of Ohio at Huntsville, Ohio on this 31st day of January, 2008.
Garis E. PughGrand High Priest
Other items of interest:
GRAND CHAPTER ANNUAL CONVOCATION
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 151
The 2008 Annual Convocation of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the State of
Ohio will be held at the Holiday Inn Dayton Mall in Miamisburg located at 31 Prestige Plaza,
Miamisburg, Ohio 45342. Registration information will be included in Bulletins Number 4 and 5.
GOLF OUTING Plans for the Grand Chapter Golf Outing this summer are being made. You
do not have to be a pro to play, as the Scramble format is used. Last year the outing was won by a
team from Cincinnati. They are eager for more challengers this year. Please start gathering your
team now so that this popular event can be successful this year. Hopefully, all districts will be
represented by at least one team or more. For more information and reservation forms, please
contact MEC John W. (Bill) Purdy at 112 Wein Street, Spencerville, Ohio 45887.
GRAND CHAPTER OFFICE CLOSING The Grand Chapter Office will be closed April 19
through April 26, 2008 for vacation. If you have urgent business, please conduct it early before
the vacation week.
From the Grand Chapter Charities:
Ohio Masonic Home
I-CARE: Successful Aging at Home
The Ohio Masonic Home is addressing the aging needs of our Brethren and their wives and
widows through the I-CARE program of its Masonic Senior Services Corporation. The I-CARE
program coordinates services that allow our Brethren to age successfully at home. I-CARE
provides Independence through: Coordination of community and governmental services;
Assistance with applications, making connections with service providers and solving problems in
those connections; Referral to agencies offering resources or support, and Education on issues
related to accessing services and dealing with senior related issues.
The I-CARE program serves Masons, wives and widows, as well as Eastern Star members and
Prince Hall. For more information, contact Masonic Senior Services of Ohio Corporation at (888)
286-0010 or www.ohiomasonichome.org.
Contributions to the Home should be sent through the Grand Secretary’s Office so that your
chapter receives the proper credit. Checks should be made out to The Ohio Masonic Home.
Royal Arch Foundation-Adopt America Network
It is with great sadness that we share that Edieann Didham, former President of Adopt America
Network and wife of Companion James Didham passed away on February 9, 2008. During her
tenure, Edieann was instrumental in developing the significant relationship that Adopt America
Network has with the Royal Arch Masons, for which we are so thankful! She also made important
changes on multiple levels at Adopt America Network that allowed us to more effectively and
efficiently place more children with loving families. Many of today’s successes have been built
on the foundation laid by her leadership and vision. She will be deeply missed by all who were
blessed with the opportunity to meet her.
With the help of the Royal Arch Masons in 2007, Adopt America Network (AAN) was able to
place 231 special needs children with forever families without charging families any fees. In
addition, AAN exceeded its goals in the number of new families
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter152
and new children registered, adoption specialists working as volunteers nationally to match
children with families and the critical home studies conducted with grants from AAN.
Families need access to readily available home studies that allow them to adopt children
anywhere in the U.S. However, for many families wishing to adopt, a major barrier is
underwriting the cost of the home study. Fees of adoption agencies frequently exceed the
financial resources of families. While many state agencies provide free home studies for families
seeking to adopt from foster care, too often in order to qualify for the free home study, the families
must then adopt children only from within the county or the state that pays for the home study.
Home study grants, thus, eliminate the financial and geographical barriers, increase the speed with
which qualified, adoptive families can be matched with special needs children.
Adopt America Network’s success is even more laudable in that AAN placed with loving
parents, the hardest to place children-special needs children. Of the 231 children, 159 were part of
a sibling group, 67 were eleven years or older, 78 had physical challenges, 183 had emotional
issues, and many had multiple other special needs including mental retardation, post traumatic
stress disorder, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, reactive attachment disorder, ADD/ ADHD and
developmental delays.
AAN’s success is only possible through the generous support in multiple ways of the Royal
Arch Masons. Your gifts of time and money have created a lasting solution that will transform the
lives of these children, their families and their communities for generations. Thank you!
AAN is excited to announce that our office will be moving on March 5th. Our new address
will be:
Adopt America Network
1500 N. Superior Street, Suite 303
Toledo, OH 43604
Look for more details in the next Bulletin.
Contributions to Adopt America should be sent to The Royal Arch Foundation, P. O. Box 511,
Shelby, Ohio 44875. Checks should be made out to The Royal Arch Foundation.
Royal Arch Research Assistance
Able Kids Foundation says there are 560 million people facing auditory challenges. Auditory
challenges are the number one disability worldwide that affects the lives of hundreds of millions
of people. It affects them at home, work, school, hospitals, hotels – anywhere they need to
communicate.
Simple activities that people with normal hearing take for granted, such as talking with friends,
family or co-workers on the telephone or cell phone is difficult for people with hearing loss.
Safety concerns arise in every trip outside the home, whether it is to work, the store or the
doctor’s office. For children with hearing loss, critical language periods may be missed which is
crucial for speech, language development and learning.
Sam age 21, who saved his own money for his evaluation says, “For much of my life, I’ve had
to cope with invisible barriers. These barriers rendered me incapable of
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 153
communicating comfortably with anyone…I’ve always felt uneasy in the presence of others. But
the cause of this discomfort remained unclear to me…There was a time when I had no hope at all.
But since Dr. Burleigh has helped me, that has changed. I have been in several intense social
situations and have been able to communicate more effectively because I could understand more.
Now I look to the future without concern for my communications abilities and I thank you for
that.”
Companions, please continue to support this worthwhile philanthropy.
Contributions to RARA should be sent through the Grand Secretary’s Office so that your Chapter
gets proper credit. Checks should be made out to RARA.
Special Note from the Awards Committee
Companions, the Earl C. Gifford Distinguished Service Award is one of the most prestigious
awards that a Companion can receive. It is time to look around, find those deserving and make
your recommendations. If you have submitted a recommendation in the past, update the
information and submit it again. Up to four are presented each year at the Annual Grand
Convocation in October.
Send your completed recommendation on the proper forms to REC David L. Vassar, Chairman
of Awards Committee, 529 Oakwood Drive, Bellefontaine, Ohio 43311. If you need forms or
additional information contact him at (937) 592-5936. Deadline for entries is June 30, 2008
News from the Grand Secretary
ATTENTION, SECRETARIES!
PRICE OF DUES CARDS Dues Cards:
We will print dues cards starting March 22, 2008.
If you have not recently given us an Update
Report so we will have the correct names to print
on the cards, please do so immediately or your
cards will be printed with the old names on them
and you will have no cards for your new memb-
ers. The cost has changed slightly since last year,
as per the table above. All cards should be
shipped to you by April 18th . If you do not
receive yours, please let us know immediately.
Remember to give us any name variations desired
on the dues cards, e.g. C. Robert Jones instead of
Charles R. Jones. Also remember that candidates,
for whom you have reported to us the "minor"
degrees but no Royal Arch date, will not be
picked up by the computer for printing the dues
cards. We will print
Membershipof Chapter
May 31, 2007
Cost ofDues
Cards
50 or less51 - 8081 - 110
111 - 140141 - 170171 - 200201 - 230231 - 260261 - 290291 - 320321 - 350351 - 380381 - 410411 - 440441 - 470over 470
$ 5.00$ 7.50$ 9.75
$12.25$14.75$16.75$18.75$20.75$22.50$24.25$26.00$29.00$31.00$32.75$35.00$37.00
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter154
cards only for Royal Arch Masons, and send you 15% extra "blank" cards (imprinted with your
Chapter name and number) for you to use during the year for your new members.
Since there are no valid dues cards without the Grand Secretary's seal on them, all Chapters
will receive cards and be billed for them without having to order them.
Annual Returns: By May 23, you should have received your Preliminary Annual Return (that is
the listing of all members in good standing and all changes in membership reported to us since
May 31, 2007).
Included with this will be the needed Annual Return Forms, Election Return Forms, and
various other year-end forms that you need.
This Preliminary Return is very important to you. It shows what has been reported to us thus
far. Entries that need to be added to update the lists to May 31, 2008, must be reported to us by an
Update Report Form. Using this information, we can then complete your Return, print the final
lists and send you a copy along with a bill for your per capita dues and fees. So please check the
preliminary lists carefully.
We have again made out the Cover Sheets of your returns for you based on the 2007 Election
Returns you have given us. (The directions for doing this will be repeated with the instructions
included with the Return mailing.)
This makes filing your Annual Return a very easy chore if you have followed the directions. It
does require your cooperation.
Service Pins: Again, you as Secretary must request the pins before they can be sent. This is so
that you can tell us if the member does not live locally. Please check the address of the
Companion, and then request the pin, giving us the address if he lives out of your area.
Endowed Memberships: Now is the time to apply for endowed memberships. Please remember
the March 31 deadline for getting applications submitted in order to get credit for the 2010 dues.
Anything received after March 31 will apply to the 2011 dues (payable June, 2010). If you need
more application forms, ask for them immediately.
New Grand Chapter Website: The Grand Chapter now has a new Website that should have
interesting information concerning Grand Officers, Inspection Schedules and news of current
events. The new Webmaster is Tom Zeigler whose email address is [email protected]. He
encourages all Royal Arch Masons to send pictures and other appropriate material for inclusion on
this website. Include names and what activity is going on. He hopes to have it on the website
within two days or less. Possible entries include inspections, installations, dinners, picnics,
activities with the ladies, fund raisers, award presentations, scholarship presentations, charitable
events, district activities, etc. Remember to send all material to the Webmaster and not the Grand
Chapter Office. He is solely responsible for the website and its content.
Audit Report Forms: Included with this bulletin you will find a copy of the proposed new Audit
Report Form. Next year (for the year ending May 31, 2009), it becomes the mandatory form that
must be given to the District Deputy Grand High Priest prior to your Inspection. It is provided to
you now for your review and comment. Please show it to your Auditor so that he can review it
also. It is strongly recommended that you begin
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 155
using the form this year (for the year ending May 31, 2008) so that you can make any comments
for improvement before it is finalized.
Dale G. Ray, Jr.Grand Secretary
___________________________________________
GRAND CHAPTER OF ROYAL ARCH MASONS OF THE STATE OF OHIOBULLETIN NO. 4Barberton, Ohio
May 15, 2008
This Bulletin must be read or summarized in open Chapter at the first stated Convocation after itsreceipt.
To: Grand Officers, Past Grand High Priests, District Deputies and Representatives of ConstituentChapters in the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Ohio
From Your Grand High Priest:
Greetings and good day Companions! Once again, welcome to Spring in Ohio. Last week I
wore shorts to work. Tomorrow morning there may be snow on the ground. Don’t you just love
Ohio in April?
And speaking of April, six months of this Capitular year are history. Where has the time gone?
We have seen good work; square work; work as we have orders to receive. This Grand Chapter is
very proud of what we have seen. You all are to be Congratulated!! Or should I say, Well Done!!
Carry On! You are running a taught ship! Your course has been straight and true! Regardless of
how I say it, I am very proud of the accomplishments you have achieved so far this year. But now
is certainly not the time to slow down or quit. Not the time to change our course. We still have
half of our journey ahead of us.
Now is the time to complete those items on the check-list for the Grand High Priest’s Award.
Now is the time to send candidates to the festivals. Now is the time to participate in a festival in
your area. Now is the time to submit your proposals for the Earl C. Gifford Distinguished Service
Award.
For those who are to be installed as High Priests in a very few short weeks, NOW IS THE
TIME TO CHART YOUR COURSE FOR THE FUTURE. Start planning for the 2008-2009
Capitular year, now! The theme may be different but the desired end result will still be the same.
Start your year with an officers meeting. Make sure your crew is aware of their duties.
As I write this I am listening to Deadliest Catch on the television. These men certainly are
aware of their duties and they have Charted Their Course. Although their fate could be
considerably more devastating than ours as Royal Arch Masons, the end result is very similar.
They have a good possibility of losing their lives. We have a good possibility of losing
Companions. Although they may still be alive, they are dead to us if
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter156
we do not recruit or retain them. ALL WE HAVE TO DO IS ASK those who do not yet belong
and keep our current Companions ENTHUSIED and INTERESTED.
I wish to remind you that June 21, 2008, is the date of the Grand Lodge 200th anniversary
parade, cornerstone laying re-enactment and picnic at the Ohio Village. REC Donald Losasso has
volunteered to perform the duties of Coordinator for the event for this Grand Chapter. I realize we
are all Symbolic Masons first and our allegiance is with the Grand Lodge. However, we wish to
have a good representation of red in the parade line. If we can have 5 Companions from each
Chapter, we will have over 750 Companions. This can be accomplished very easily. Should you
have any questions about the event, please contact REC Losasso.
The Grand Architect has called many of our Companions and friends to that house not made
with hands, eternal in the heavens, over the past six months. But especially in February and March
the Grand Chapter was saddened by the deaths of Edieann Didham, REC George Rosendaul and
REC Dewey McClure. Edieann was CEO of the Adopt America Foundation when the Royal Arch
Foundation was formed. REC Rosendaul was a PDDGHP among many, many other Masonic
duties. He was the foundation of Masonry in the northwest corner of Ohio. His passing will have a
far-reaching effect on Masonry in Ohio. And in the 6th Capitular District we lost REC Dewey
McClure, Past Grand Guard Emeritus. Dewey was a good friend and he truly loved Masonry. All
three will be missed.
Plans are well underway for the 2008 Grand Chapter session to be held at the Holiday Inn
Miamisburg in October. Grand Council will also be meeting there with us. Further information
will be forthcoming soon. Start planning now for the end of our voyage and our party at the docks
as we bring this great vessel back to our home port.
We are in the midst of the Grand High Priest Reception part of this Capitular year and so far we
have not been disappointed. The Districts have been well prepared for their events. The friendship
has been great. The meals have been five-star and the entertainment has been unforgettable. In the
15th District we were entertained for nearly 2 hours by a steel drum band. And for a person who
lives on an island, there is nothing better than a steel drum. Each Reception has left us with special
memories.
One thing I have noticed is that the younger Companions in the various Districts are not
attending. I urge our younger Companions to come out and enjoy a good evening and meal. We
thank each of you for the various gifts and for the donations that you have made to the Royal Arch
Foundation. We look forward to those receptions yet to come.
Remember the Grand Chapter web site is alive and well. Look it up at ohioram.org. If you have
something you wish to post contact our Webmaster, Tom Zeigler and he will take care of it for
you.
My Companions, some of us may say the glass is half-full, some may say half-empty. We can
say the year is half over or we can say we have six more glorious months ahead of us to enjoy
Capitular Masonry. I know what I am going to say! We are having a Ball and life is good! Let us
make the next six months rewarding and prosperous to ourselves, our local Chapters and to our
Grand Chapter. There will not be any more ice storms or blizzards. It is time to hit the road and
spread our Capitular message across this great State of Ohio. We Will Reach Our Destination
Because We Are Going to Give It a TRY
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 157
May God be with us all as we perform the duties assigned to us by the Grand Admiral of the
Universe.
Given under my signature and seal of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Ohio at
Huntsville, Ohio on this 15th day of April, 2008.
Garis E. PughGrand High Priest
Please Read the Following Very Carefully!
192nd GRAND CONVOCATION TO BE HELD IN MIAMISBURG, OHIO IN OCTOBER
The 192nd Annual Convocation of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the State of
Ohio will convene in the city of Miamisburg, Ohio on Wednesday, October 8, 2008 at 8:30 a.m.
The Grand Chapter will reconvene for the closing session at 8:30 a.m., Thursday, October 9, 2008.
Hotel and Meal Reservation Forms will be sent with Bulletin No. 5, along with all other items
needed to register for the Convocation such as Proxies, Delegate Cards, Order of High Priesthood
Forms, etc. In the past we have included advance Hotel and Meal Reservation Forms with this
Bulletin (No. 4) but to save the extra expense we will only send them with Bulletin No. 5 this
year. Hotel and Meal Forms will also be available on the website after June 15, 2008. Secretaries
are requested to submit Chapter Election Returns in a timely fashion so that Bulletin No. 5 can be
issued as soon as possible.
REGISTRATION: Registration for Companions will be at the Holiday Inn Dayton Mall on
Tuesday, October 7, 2008, from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and on Wednesday, October 8, 2008 from
7:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and on Thursday, October 9, 2008, from 7:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Ladies
Registration will be at the Hotel on Tuesday, October 7, 2008, from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on
Wednesday, October 8, 2008 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
DISTRICT HOSPITALITY ROOMS: Any District wanting to reserve a district Hospitality
Room, must contact and make reservations through the Housing Chairman: John R. Hartsock, 340
Marshall Drive, West Jefferson, Ohio 43162, PHONE NUMBER (614) 879-9945. When
requesting a hospitality room, please give YOUR District Association’s Name, the credit card
number to be charged for the room, and the name, address, and telephone number of the person
staying in the room. If you need one of the larger hospitality-type rooms, you should reserve it as
soon as possible as there are only a few of the bigger rooms available.
Other items of interest:
GOLF OUTING The Grand Chapter Golf Outing will again be held at Hawthorne Hills Golf
Course in Lima. The date is July 12, 2008. Please contact MEC John W. (Bill) Purdy at 112
Wein Street, Spencerville, Ohio 45887 or call him at (419) 647-0052 for additional information.
SECRETARIES – PLEASE TAKE NOTE: Excellent Companion Dennis L. Hughes,
Secretary of the York Rite Secretaries and Recorders Association, has asked that
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter158
we include his letter concerning the Summer Meeting of the Association in this mailing. It
includes the dues notice for the next year. He realizes that some of you may be replaced in June.
If this is the case, please pass this letter on to your successor.
From the Grand Chapter Charities:
Ohio Masonic Home
Part of this year’s celebration of Ohio Freemasonry’s Bicentennial celebration is the creation
of time capsules submitted by all 25 Masonic Districts as well as the Scottish Rite, York Rite and
The Ohio Masonic Home. The capsules will be deposited in a location at the Home during a
special ceremony on Masonic Home Day, September 7th in Springfield.
A special “covering” will be created above the area in which the capsules are deposited to mark
it for future generations and those who will ultimately retrieve the capsules many years from now.
Commemorative granite stones are being created especially for this area and are available for
purchase.
To secure your place…or that of your chapter in this specially marked area, purchase one or
more of these stones. A limited number of stones are available. Orders will be processed on a
first come, first serve basis. The Ohio Masonic Home reserves the right to determine order of
receipt and designate location. Orders received after July 1st may not be included in the covering.
For more information and an order form, contact The Ohio Masonic Home’s affiliated
Benevolent Endowment Foundation toll free at (888) 248-2664 or go to
www.ohiomasonichome.org , click on the Foundation tab and then “Covering the Future.’’
Contributions to the Home should be sent through the Grand Secretary’s office so that proper
credit is given to your chapter. Checks should be made payable to The Ohio Masonic Home.
Royal Arch Foundation-Adopt America Network
Throughout the year, the Royal Arch Masons always seem to be there to help the children and
families that Adopt America Network assists.
In December, at the Holiday Party where over 220 parents and children from Ohio and
Michigan celebrated their blessings, the Ohio Royal Arch Masons played a variety of roles from
Santa’s elf, to photographer, to serving food, helping to make it a joyous event. For some of the
children, this is their first holiday with a permanent family. For many families, gifts from Santa
make it a memorable one. The party gives adoptive families and children a chance to come
together to meet and share their experiences with others in the same situation. For some, it is the
beginning of developing a support network with other adoptive families. The party also helps the
adopted children realize how many others are also adopted and so they do not feel so isolated. For
example, last year a child was overheard making a remark to her adoptive parents that she had no
idea so many other children were adopted.
On April 18th with the help of our Michigan RAM friends, AAN held a wonderful adoption
celebration in Traverse City, Michigan. Over 100 people attended with the adopted children and
adults performing many songs, dances and stand-up routines. As
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 159
always, treats and juices were a big hit with the kids. A donation basket was sent around the
room and over $800 was donated to help AAN place more children.
Many thanks to the RAM and AAN volunteers who make these events possible.
As mentioned in the last Bulletin, AAN moved on March 5. The Hickory Farms’ red barn that
AAN has lived in for over 16 years has been sold. While we regret having to leave the “red barn’
because of its historical significance and link to our founder, Dick Ransom, we are very excited
abut moving into the Summit Plaza Building which is operated by the YMCA. It is near the
waterfront of the Maumee River, just north of the central business district. The YMCA is
gradually converting the tenants from medical practices to mission-driven charities. AAN’s new
address and phone numbers are:
Adopt America Network
1500 N. Superior Street, Suite 303
Toledo, OH 43604
We believe the closeness to downtown and sharing space with other charities is a great
opportunity for AAN. We are planning on an open house late this year and hope you will all come
and see our new office!
Remember to save the date Friday, October 10, 2008 for the AAN Annual Dinner and Auction
in Toledo.
There will also be having a Silent Auction for AAN at Grand Chapter. Many wonderful items
were donated last year and we expect this year to be even bigger.
Contributions to the Royal Arch Foundation for Adopt America should be sent to The Royal
Arch Foundation, P. O. Box 511, Shelby, Ohio 44875. Checks should be made payable to The
Royal Arch Foundation.
Royal Arch Research Assistance
The Able Kids Foundation was established to focus on eliminating barriers. Dr. Joan Burleigh
and Jo Waldron co-founded the Foundation due to their dedication to providing information,
research results, access technology and a focus on abilities rather than disabilities to children (and
adults) through schools and exempt organizations.
Notwithstanding the strides made in disability rights in the past 25 years, the majority of people
with disabilities are poor, under-employed and under-educated due largely to unequal
opportunities. People with disabilities constitute the largest minority group in the United States,
making up an estimated 20 per cent of the total population. It is a diverse group, crossing lines of
age, ethnicity, gender, race, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status. The Able Kids
Foundation and their partners will provide education and alternatives for individuals, beginning
with auditory challenges, for schools, senior centers, public facilities, service organizations,
hospitals, corporations and professional associations.
A testimonial from a mother whose child was evaluated at the Center, states, “My son
struggled his whole life with communication…always feeling different and never finding a
cause…until we found Able Kids Foundation. What a difference the testing and management has
made. It is wonderful to see a smile back on his face.”
We, as Royal Arch Masons, should do everything we can to promote this program. Please
make every effort to promote Royal Arch Research Assistance in your Chapter and District. Make
a difference in some one’s life, today.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter160
Contributions to RARA should be sent through the Grand Secretary’s office so that proper
credit is given to you or your chapter. Checks should be made payable to RARA.
Dale G. Ray, Jr.Grand Secretary
_______________________________________________
GRAND CHAPTER OF ROYAL ARCH MASONSOF THE STATE OF OHIO
BULLETIN NO. 5Barberton, Ohio
July 25, 2008
This Bulletin must be read or summarized in open Chapter at the first stated Convocation after itsreceipt.
To: Grand Officers, Past Grand High Priests, District Deputies and Representatives of ConstituentChapters in the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Ohio
From Your Grand High Priest:
Greetings on this warm and sunny summer day! I write this on the 29th day of June, 2008. We are
about to enter into the tenth month of this Capitular year. And what a year it has been! Just last
night we were in the Third Capitular District at their annual joint installation of Chapter Officers
of the various Chapters in the District. This is a very special event for them. As a Grand Officer, I
have been privileged to be a part of this event for nine years. Thank You to the Companions of the
Third District for allowing the Grand Officers and myself once again to be a part of this special
event.
We are saddened this weekend with the passing of MWB Thomas E. Reynolds, Past Grand
Master of Masons in Ohio. He was a Masonic leader in the Findlay area and will be missed. Please
keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.
Just last Saturday many of the Grand Officers, District Deputies Grand High Priest and
Companions of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons in Ohio participated in the “Parade to
the Statehouse” as part of the Grand Lodge celebration of it’s 200th anniversary. What a great day
that was for Freemasonry in Ohio. We had our red shirts on and we were very visible. Thank you
to all who participated. One item of note regarding the event, it was great to be able to sing the
National Anthem, say a prayer and pledge the flag of our Nation and not hear a word of protest
anywhere. Remember in 2016 we will celebrate our 200th anniversary. Look for things to come.
There is now only one GHP Reception left. I thank all of you for the courtesies extended to the
Lovely and Talented Lady Virginia and myself. Each reception was unique and we will have fond
memories of our visits with you. Again we especially want to thank you for the donations to
charity by some of the Districts. I learned a lot about the history of our Grand Chapter with the
historical lessons I presented. This series of presentations did help me grow and improve my
confidence in myself while at the same time I was humbled by your kindness.
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 161
The Grand Session is not far away and I am sure you will receive information regarding room
and meals with this bulletin. I hope to see a good turnout of Companions at the session.
Remember, the Grand Council will be at the same location earlier in the week. Save gas and stay
for both events.
Our Grand King is making his visits to the Districts and presenting his program for the next
year. Right Excellent Companion Draye is a very dedicated Mason and I’m sure he will be a very
good Grand High Priest. If he has not been in your District yet, please make plans to attend his
presentation.
Speaking of attendance, and I have mentioned this before, I urge the younger Companions of
the state to become more involved with District functions. In our travels this year we noticed many
times only the more senior Companions in attendance. There is so much that can be learned at the
various District functions. I also want to suggest that with rising gas prices you might want to
schedule multiple inspections on the same day. The fewer times we are on the highway, the better.
With the growing concern of the economy, heating bills and almost everything that we need
increasing in price, there is a general feeling that our Fraternity’s membership may suffer. I urge
all Chapter officers to make every effort to help some of our less fortunate Companions if
financial difficulties threaten their ability to remain active or even pay their dues.
Although I will address you at the Grand Session in October, this is my last bulletin. I truly
Thank each of you for allowing me the opportunity of serving this Grand Chapter for the past nine
years. Together this past year we have Charted Our Course for the Future. You have done well and
we can see that we Will Reach Our Destination. Yes, there were some rough seas but you all
stayed at your duty stations and we got through. We will survive! And yes, there is still work to
do. You and your crew need to work together to prepare for the new voyage. PLAN AHEAD as I
have stated all year long!
From Bulletin # 4, please contact me concerning a hospitality room at Grand Session not REC
Hartsock.
Although many of you have heard it at the reception presentations, I want to leave you with the
words of Oliver Wendell Holmes, “ Greatness is not in where we stand, but in what direction we
are moving. We must sail sometimes with the wind and sometimes against it—but sail we must,
and not drift, nor lie at anchor.”
AHOY! and WELL DONE! my mates and may God Bless!!
Sincerely and fraternally,
Garis E. PughGrand High Priest
Please Read the Following Very Carefully!
192nd GRAND CONVOCATION TO BE HELD IN MIAMISBURG, OHIO ON OCTOBER
8-9, 2008
The 192nd annual Convocation of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the State of
Ohio will convene in the city of Miamisburg, Ohio on Wednesday, October 8,
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter162
2008 at 8:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Dayton Mall, 31 Prestige Plaza Drive, Miamisburg, Ohio.
The Grand Chapter will reconvene for the closing session at 8:30 a.m., Thursday, October 9, 2008.
All meetings and meals for the delegates and their ladies will be at the Holiday Inn Dayton Mall.
The headquarters hotel will be the Holiday Inn Dayton Mall. The hotel is located close to the
intersection of I-75 and State Route 725 on the south side of State Route 725. All Grand Officers
and Past Grand High Priests, Distinguished Guests and District Deputies will be quartered there
along with most delegates. Please read carefully. All hotel and meal reservations must be made
by the individual Companions, or they can be grouped as a Chapter provided that each Companion
and Lady is listed individually.
Hotel Reservations:
Companions should call or use the enclosed hotel reservation form to make room reservations.
The room rate at the Holiday Inn Dayton Mall is $79.00 per day, plus tax. Hotel reservations must
be made by September 16, 2008 to guarantee these rates.
A few other motels are also located in the area. Companions should note that reservations should
be submitted as early as possible.
Meal Reservations:
Meal reservations must be made and paid for in advance. Mail your check with the enclosed
Meal Ticket Order Form to: Donald G. Rutledge, 755 Free Road, New Carlisle, Ohio 54344.
Make checks payable to the Sixth Capitular District. Cut off for meal reservations is September
26, 2008.
NOTE: Be sure to print or type the name and title of the Companion and the name of his Lady.
Registration:
Registration for Companions will be on Tuesday from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday
from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and on Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the Headquarters
Hotel. Ladies Registration will be at the Headquarters Hotel on Tuesday, October 7, 2008, from
2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Space for some District Hospitality Rooms is available. For Hospitality Rooms, contact the
Grand High Priest, Garis E. Pugh, telephone (937) 842-3747. When requesting a hospitality
room, please give the name of the person staying in the adjoining room and the credit card number
to be charged for the room. Right Excellent Companion Herbert L. Clonch, Telephone (937) 864-
1396 is handling spaces for Vendors.
Breakfast for all Royal Arch Masons will be available (advance reservations only) at 7:00 a.m.
on Wednesday and at 7:00 a.m. on Thursday at the Headquarters Hotel at a cost of $13.00 each.
There are other restaurants within driving distance but not within walking distance.
Proposed Legislation:
No code or by-laws revisions have been submitted as of this date.
Election and Installation:
The election of Grand Officers will be held on Wednesday morning, Oct. 8. Tellers will be
under the direction of Rt. Ex. Comp. Herbert L. Clonch, Grand Guard. A list of the Chapters
appointed to provide tellers was printed in Bulletin #1 last fall. (They will
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 163
be reminded of their selection by a separate letter.) The installation of officers will be held on
Thursday morning.
Kings and Scribes School:
At 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, the Kings, Scribes and other interested Companions will have a
school under the direction of our Grand King, Grand Scribe and Grand Capt. of the Host. All
companions not otherwise involved are urged to attend this very informative meeting.
Order of High Priesthood:
The Order of High Priesthood will be conferred on Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. at
the Headquarters Hotel. All who have at sometime been installed as High Priest are eligible to
petition for this degree. Please mail your petition with $40.00 fee to the Grand Secretary before
Sept. 22 so that your Certificate can be properly prepared for you. (Last minute petitions (fee will
be $50.00) can be received at the table at the Grand Chapter reservation desk until 12:30 p.m. on
Wednesday, Oct. 8, but please give us your petitions ahead of time if you want your certificate to
be ready for you.) Send in your petition for The Order of High Priesthood in the enclosed
envelope.
Delegate Cards:
Attention, High Priests! Fill out the enclosed postcard immediately upon receipt showing the
name of the ranking delegate from your Chapter to attend Grand Chapter, the number of days he
will attend, and mail it at once to the Grand Treasurer as indicated.
If you do not mail the card, the check cannot be made ready for you or your representative.
Delegates who have sent in their cards to the Grand Treasurer in advance, will pick up their checks
at the close of Grand Chapter at a place designated by Most Excellent Companion Charles J.
McCarty, Grand Treasurer, and his Committee. The Grand Treasurer has asked us to remind you
that per our Grand Chapter By-Laws, only the superior officer of the following can receive
mileage and per diem for attending the Grand Convocation: the High Priest, only if present, or the
King, only if the High Priest is not present, or the Scribe, if the High Priest and King are not
present. If none of the Grand Council are present, then the companion carrying the proxy of the
High Priest is entitled to mileage and per diem. If further definition is required, refer to Section
15.04 of our Grand Chapter By-Laws.
Proxies:
Blank Proxies are included with this Bulletin to each High Priest. Each High Priest, King and
Scribe should sign one of them at once so that in the event he cannot, for whatever reason, attend
Grand Chapter the proxy can be given to a Companion who will attend and cast the ballot. Each
Chapter is entitled to three votes, but only properly executed proxies can be accepted by the
Credentials Committee. Ballots will be issued to properly accredited delegates upon registration.
All Chapters must be represented at Grand Chapter this year. Please note that Past High Priests
who now have voting rights on their own still cannot represent their Chapter unless they carry a
duly processed proxy.
Attention Committee Members:
Members of the following committees will please be available and subject to call on Tuesday,
Oct. 7, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Dayton Mall, or as directed by the Chairman:
Jurisprudence, Charters and Dispensations, and Finance.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter164
Aprons:
All Companions attending Grand Chapter will be required to wear aprons. Bring your apron
with you.
Given under my signature and seal of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Ohio at
Huntsville, Ohio on this 25th day of July, 2008.
Garis E. PughGrand High Priest
Attested: Dale G. Ray, Jr.Grand Secretary
_________________________________________________
Other items of interest:
Attention Secretaries: The Grand Secretary’s dedicated FAX number is 330-753-3673. We also
have an e-mail address: [email protected] . Please feel free to use them. Telephone, Fax or
Letters are preferred as opposed to e-mail and should definitely be used for time-critical
communications
York Rite Secretary-Recorders Association to Meet in Delaware on Aug. 16, 2008:
Annual meeting of the York Rite Secretary-Recorders Association of Ohio will be held at the
Delaware Masonic Temple, 51 W. William Street, Delaware, OH on Saturday, Aug. 16, 2008.
Registration and coffee and doughnuts will be enjoyed from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. The meeting will
open at 9:30 a.m. Every Chapter Secretary should make an effort to attend, and it is particularly
important for new Secretaries. Urge the Secretary of your Chapter to attend, and to bring along
any questions he may have for the Grand Secretary. Incidentally, if you need supplies, such as
Codes, Management Manuals, forms, etc., you can buy them here without paying the expensive
postage.
*****SECRETARIES TAKE NOTE OF THE FOLLOWING*****
New Tax Reporting Requirements: Do not forget to file your Form 990-N by October 15,
2008!!!! The Department of Treasury has notified us that there is a new annual electronic filing
requirement for small tax-exempt organizations. In the past, if your chapter’s income was less
than $25,000.00, the chapter was not required to file a Form 990. The new law requires small tax-
exempt organizations to file an electronic Form 990-N which will include the organizations
identifying information and a statement that the organization’s annual gross receipts are still
normally $25,000 or less. We questioned the Department of Treasury as to what chapters that did
not own computers, or have Secretaries that did, should do. Their answer is to use one at a local
library. This law takes effect in 2008. You must first report for your Fiscal Year 2007-2008
ending on May 31, 2008 (Form 990-N is due by the 15th day of the fifth month after fiscal year-
end – October 15, 2008).
*****SECRETARIES TAKE NOTE OF THE ABOVE*****
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 165
From the Grand Chapter Charities:
Ohio Masonic Home
The Ohio Masonic Home’s various subsidiaries and business will have numerous activities in
the upcoming weeks.
Springfield Masonic Community will host the annual Home Day event from 11:00 a.m. to 4
p.m. Sunday, September 7th. Everyone is invited to attend for live entertainment, food, campus
tours, kid’s activities, crafts and a resident flea market, the annual Shrine parade and a special
Ohio Freemasonry bicentennial ceremony with the burial of time capsules. For more information,
call (937) 525-3025.
Western Reserve Masonic Community will have its third annual Renaissance Fair on Saturday,
October 4th and Sunday, October 5th on the campus grounds. There is no cost to attend to
experience music, interactive events, jousting, kid’s activities, food, a marketplace and much
more. For more information call (330) 721-3000.
Masonic Helping Hands has opened a new office to serve the Cincinnati area to help seniors
and disabled adults who wish to remain in their homes with tasks such as light housekeeping, meal
preparation, companionship and much more. The program also serves the Springfield/Dayton
area. For more information, call 1-877-564-0210.
Find out more about what’s going on at The Ohio Masonic Home at
www.ohiomasonichome.org.
Contributions to the Ohio Masonic Home should be sent through the Grand Secretary’s office
so that the Chapter, Companion of District gets proper credit for their donation. Checks should be
made payable the Ohio Masonic Home.
Royal Arch Foundation-Adopt America Network
All of us at Adopt America Network appreciate all that the Royal Arch Masons do to support
AAN in multiple ways. Your help is critical. Your support directly enables AAN to help the
129,000 children waiting on average over three years in the U.S. foster care system to be adopted
and the families wanting to adopt them.
The longer these children wait in foster care, the more behavioral and emotional issues they
develop. Of the more than 24,000 children in foster care more than five years: 54% have one or
more mental disorders; 90% receive mental health services, 25% show post-traumatic stress
disorder (nearly double the rate of U.S. Gulf War Veterans) and only 58% earn high school and
3% college degrees.
We simply must place the children eligible for adoption with loving, permanent, safe, adoptive
families as quickly as possible. Giving children a stable, healthy home environment can: Increase
their coping and socialization skills; Improve academic success; Help children address and/or
manage mental, physicals, emotional and medical challenges by providing them with consistent
care regimens and consistent parental responses and role models; and,
Decrease the likelihood that they will end up poor, homeless, unemployed, pregnant, incarcerated
or on welfare
Because of the support of the Royal Arch Masons in 2007, here is how AAN was able to help
some of the hardest to place children in 2007: Helped place 231 children with
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter166
caring adoptive parents and thus, transformed their lives, the lives of their children and their
communities for generations to come; Helped place the hardest to place children – those with
special needs:
Sibling Groups - .Of the 231 placed children in 2007, 159 (68.8%) were members
of a sibling group,
Teens-AAN placed 67 (29% of the 231) children who were 11 years and older,
Emotional Issues – In 2007, 183 (79.2% of the children placed had emotional
issues.
Physical Challenges – In 2007, 78 (33.8%) had physical challenges;
Brought to a total, over 3,300 children from the foster care system that AAN since our
founding, has been instrumental in assisting in placing with loving, permanent families.
In 2002, the Royal Arch Masons began supporting AAN’s work. Since then, with the help of
the Royal Arch Masons, 1,314 children have realized their dreams of having a forever mother and
father of their own. We thank you!
In July, AAN received from the Royal Arch Masons, 25 tickets for a Mud Hens Baseball game
in Toledo. The tickets were distributed to families in Northwest Ohio who have adopted. For
some of the children, this was the first baseball game and fireworks display that they had ever seen
and they were thrilled!
In July, Sandra Migani Wall (Director of Development at AAN) and Kirstina Roberts attended
the Hog Roast at Gary LaRoche’s farm. (Gary is a Royal Arch Mason and a board member of
AAN.) Kirstina brought her three charming sons, two of whom have been adopted with your
support. The boys were excited to meet some of your members and to visit a working farm and
take the pony cart and hay rides. After the delicious meal, including homemade ice cream, the
lively auction raised funds for the Royal Arch Foundation for AAN’s work. Thank you for having
AAN and the Roberts family as guests and for always looking for ways to help the waiting
children!.
Please remember to save the date Friday, October 10, 2008 for the AAN Annual Dinner and
Auction in Toledo. As Diane Larson has said,” it is always a pleasure to see “The Gentlemen and
Their Ladies in Red.”
There will also be a Silent Auction for AAN at the Grand Chapter. Many wonderful items
were donated last year and we expect this year to be even bigger. Contributions to the Royal
Arch Foundation for Adopt America should be sent to:
The Royal Arch Foundation
P.O. Box 511
Shelby, Ohio 44875
Checks should be made payable to The Royal Arch Foundation
Royal Arch Research Assistance
In her latest report, Dr. Joan Burleigh, CEO of Able Kids Foundation, states that they continue
to input data into their research database and have begun the process of data analysis. One area
that they have been looking at closely is the relationship between middle ear infections and central
auditory nervous systems (CANS) efficiency.
In case you missed reading it, there is an interesting article in the Spring 2008 edition of the
Royal Arch Mason Magazine, on page 6, titled, “Coping With CAPD”. It was
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 167
written by Dr. Yvette Ferguson Keel, daughter of the General Grand King, Most Excellent
Companion Emory J. ‘Smokey’ Ferguson. This article explains how Dr. Keel’s family copes with
CAPD when her son, Allen, was having trouble in school.
My sincere thanks to all of the Companions, Chapters and Capitular Districts that have made
contributions this past year to this worthy philanthropy.
Contributions to RARA should be sent through the Grand Secretary’s office so that the
Chapter, Companion of District gets proper credit for their donation. Checks should be made
payable to Royal Arch Research Assistance or RARA.
Dale G. Ray, Jr.Grand Secretary
___________________________________________________
OFFICERS OF THE GRAND CHAPTER OF
ROYAL ARCH MASONS OF THE STATE OF OHIO
2007 – 2008
Garis E. Pugh (wife Ginny) ………………………….……………....... Grand High Priest
9527 Lakeshore Dr. E., Huntsville, OH 43324 Home (937) 842-3747
Robert J. Draye (wife Paula) ………………………........................…….…… Grand King
1271 Worton Blvd., Mayfield Heights, OH 44124 Home (440) 442-3140
Donald L. Losasso (wife Theda)……….…………………..……………….. Grand Scribe
5149 Bixford Ave., Canal Winchester, OH 43110 Home: 614-836-3412
Charles J. McCarty (wife Ann)...................................................................Grand Treasurer
24501Glnbrk Blvd, Euclid, OH 44117 Home: (216) 486-9499 Office: (440) 442-0666
Dale G. Ray, Jr. (wife Jacqueline)……………………………………….. Grand Secretary
564 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Suite 401, Barberton, OH 44203 Office: 330-753-3670
1031 Wilbur Ave., Barberton, OH 44203 Home: (330) 753-5469
Steven J. Oliver (wife Susan) ……………………….……...… Grand Captain of the Host
321 E. Spring Street, New Knoxville, OH 45871 Home: (419) 942-1850
James W. Himmelright (wife Julia) ………………...………… Grand Principal Sojourner
631 Friendship Street, Medina, OH 44256 Home: (330)722-3269 Bus: (800) 237-8246
George M. Shell (wife Sharon) ……………………..………... Grand Royal Arch Captain
8006 Browns Run Road, Germantown, OH 45327 Home: (937) 620-3413
Robert W. Thomas (wife Donna) ........................................... Grand Master of the 1st Veil
509 Brandon Court, Chardon, OH 44024 Home: (440) 286-5661
Donald Owens ………………………................................… Grand Master of the 2nd Veil
2737 Orland Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45211 Home: (513) 481-8616
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter168
Robert D. Blankenhorn, Jr (wife Pam) …………………..… Grand Master of the 1st Veil
2172 Satinwood Drive, Mansfield, OH 44903 Home: (419) 589-2174
APPOINTIVE
F. Raymond Sharritts (wife Patricia) ........................................Gr. Chaplain & Necrologist
1655 Lexington Drive, Lancaster, OH 43130 Home: (740) 654-6650
Dewey A. McClure (Widower) ….............………………………..Grand Guard, Emeritus
Ohio Masonic Home, PO Box 120, Springfield, OH 45501 Home: (937) 325-5201
Herbert Clonch (wife Margaret) ...…........…………………….....…………. Grand Guard
1105 Meadowlark Drive, Enon, OH 45323 Home: (937) 864-1396
David Vassar (wife Judy) ........................................................................... Grand Marshal
529 Oakwood Drive, Bellefontaine, OH 45817 Home: (937)592-0793
Norman G. Lincoln………………………………………………………. Grand Historian
204 W. Chicago Street, PO Box 454, Eaton, OH 45320 Home: (937) 456-6859
Glen L. Opp (wife Nancy).................................................. Grand Fraternal Correspondent
104 S. Main St., Rawson, OH 45881 Home: (419) 963-4724
Don R. Lutz (wife Lenore) ……………………………………………... Grand Musician
1015 Montrose Avenue, Bexley, OH 43209 Home: (614) 231-3166
Robert L. Jordon (wife Dorothy) ............................................... Grand Musician, Emeritus
926 W. Ohio Ave., Sebring, OH 44672 Home: (430) 938-6254
George Hall (wife June) …………………………………..……… Grand Parliamentarian
28 Park Avenue West, Mansfield, OH 44902 H: (419)756-5696 Bus: (419) 524-981
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 169
ROBERT J. DRAYE
Grand High Priest
2008 – 2009
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter170
BIOGRAPHY & MASONIC RECORDRobert J. Draye, Grand High Priest 2008 - 2009
Most Excellent Companion Draye, a resident of Mayfield Heights, Ohio, was born March 15,
1942 in Cleveland, Ohio to Joseph and Jean (Rankin) Draye. He graduated from Cleveland
Heights High School and attended Cleveland Community College, Vale Technical Institute and
numerous other technical schools. He holds a 3rd class stationary engineer license.
Now retired, he had been employed for 38 years by the Cleveland Heights and University
Heights Public School District.
He married Paula in July, 1964 and their marriage was blessed with one son – Robert Edward.
An active member of Hillcrest United Methodist Church since 1966, he has served as Chairman
of both the Administrative Board and the Board of Trustees.
MASONIC RECORD
SYMBOLIC:
Woodward Lodge No. 508 F&AM. (now Lyndhurst No. 508) Worshipful Master in 1988 and
1999; Past District Education Officer, 1990 – 92, and Past District Deputy Grand Master, 2000
– 2002 in the 22nd Masonic District.
CAPITULAR:
Heights Chapter Royal Arch Masons No. 206, High Priest in 1990 and 1991. District Education
Officer 1993 – 1994; .District Deputy Grand High Priest 1995 to 1998 (16th Capitular District).
Grand Representative of Vermont to Ohio; Ohio Council, Anointed High Priests 1990;
CRYPTIC:
Windermere Council Royal and Select Masons No. 113. Illustrious Master 1992; Order of the
Silver Trowel, 1992; Inspector of the 7th Arch, 1998. Grand Representative of Vermont to Ohio –
appointed 2007. .
CHILVARIC:
Coeur DeLion Commandery No. 64. Eminent Commander 1992; Dual member of Norwalk
Commandery No.18. .
ANCIENT ACCEPTED SCOTTISH RITE:
Valley of Cleveland; Sovereign Prince of Bahurim Council, 2006 – 2007. Cuyahoga County and
Lake and Geauga County Scottish Rite Associations. Scottish Rite Research Society. Received
the 33rd degree in Chicago, Illinois in August, 2006.
OHIO PRIORY:
Knight of the York Cross of Honor.
ALLIED MASONIC DEGREES:
Clarence E. O’Neal Council No. 53, Past Sovereign Master.1999, Recipient of the Red Branch of
Eri.
RED CROSS OF CONSTANTINE:
St. Benedict Conclave order of the Red Cross of Constantine
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 171
YORK RITE COLLEGE:
Cleveland York Rite Sovereign College No.13, Recipient - Order of the Purple Cross.
ROYAL ORDER OF SCOTLAND:
Sir Knight in the Royal Order of Scotland.
ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR:
Woodward Chapter, (now Windermere Chapter) Order of the Eastern.Star
OTHERS:
Selynma Chapter DeMolay – Dad Advisor; Advisory Council Chairman
DeMolay Honorary Legion of Honor
Al Koran Shrine – Past President of Campers Unit; Royal Order of Jesters
Al Sirat Grotto
Ohio Lodge of Research
Ohio Chapter of Research
The Philalethes Society (Life Member)
Member of Quator Coronati Correspondence Circle
Grand College of Rites
Shannon Council, Knight Masons No. 28
Fowler Council, Knight Masons (Founding and Charter member) Excellent Chief 2001
Cuyahoga County Memorial Lodge – Past Treasurer
Order of Amaranth
National Sojourners, Cleveland Chapter - President 2000
Euclid Chapter, High Twelve
York Rite Secretary’s and Treasurers Association
Knight Commander, Order of St. Patrick
Order of Bath
Order of Garter
Recipient of the following awards:
Grand Masters Award with Outstanding Distinction
Illustrious Master of the Year – 1993
Grand High Priest recognition for the highest number of exaltations in one year - 23
Most Excellent Companion Draye holds numerous Honorary memberships in the 22nd Masonic
District; the 16th Capitular District; in Ohio Chapters and other Grand Jurisdictions
LIVING PAST GRAND HIGH PRIESTSof the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Ohio
Year Presided:
1969 Louis H. Doerman, 3214 Woodburn Ave., Cincinnati, OH 452071978 Robert M. Huntzinger, 23 Ardmore Dr., Middletown, OH 450421980 William M. Berry, 310 N. Scott St., New Carlisle, OH 453441983 Charles E. Karth, Cypress Creek, 83 Bay Lane, Lake Alfred, FL 338501987 Arthur T. Reeves, 50814 Hadley Rd., East Palestine, OH 444131988 Joe E. Worthington, 1009 Southernview Dr., Ada, OH 458101993 Dale G. Ray, 1031 Wilbur Ave., Barberton, OH 44203
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter172
1994 Jerry C. Crawford, 105 Fernwood Ave., Dayton, OH 454051995 John W. Purdy, 112 Wein St., Spencerville, OH 458871996 Arthur E. Ross, 2405 Lofton Ct., Lawrenceville, GA 300441997 Wayne S. Dill, 24656 Dorothy Drive, Brownstown, MI 481341998 Terry B. Meyers, 110 Spring St., Cleves, OH 450021999 Robert D. Crabbs, 1871 Rock Rd., Mansfield, OH 449032000 Charles J. McCarty, 24501 Glenbrook Blvd., Euclid, OH 441172001 Chester W. Hammond, 23 Kirkland St., Delaware, OH 430152002 Alan D. Hart, 516 S. River St., Newcomerstown, OH 438322003 John R. Gartrell, 642 Hardesty Avenue, N.W., New Philadelphia, OH 446632004 Steven A. Duncan, 6278 Overture Drive, Dayton, OH 454492005 Jean W. Justus, 20060 Commercial Point Rd., Circleville, OH 431132006 Kermit V. Zimmerman, 305 Bourbon Street, Blanchester, OH 451072007 James M. McDonald, 985 Winding Hollow Lane, Upper Sandusky, OH 433512008 Garis E. Pugh, 9527 Lakeshore Drive, East, Huntsville, OH 43324
DECEASED PAST GRAND HIGH PRIESTSof the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Ohio
Year Elected:1816 Samuel Hoit Marietta1817 Chester Griswold Worthington1818 – 19 John Snow Worthington1820 David Embree Cincinnati1821 – 22 Phineas Ross Lebanon1823 Joseph S. Hughes Delaware1824 Edward King Chillicothe1825 John Cotton Marietta1826 Edward King Chillicothe1827 – 28 Charles R. Sherman Lancaster1829 Abram I. McDowell Columbus1830 James Gates Lancaster1831 William R. Foster Cincinnati1832 Samuel Stokley Steubenville1833 Henry Sage Circleville1834 William J. Reese Lancaster1835 William B. Thrall Circleville1836 – 38 William J. Reese Lancaster1839 William B. Thrall Circleville1840 – 41 Oliver M. Spencer Cincinnati1841 – 46 William B. Hubbard Columbus1847 George D. Hine Massillon1848 – 50 Jacob Graff Cincinnati1851 – 52 Jacob B. Brown Mt. Vernon1853 – 56 Horace M. Stokes Lebanon1857 – 59 George Rex Wooster1860 Harvey Vanal Springfield1861 – 62 John M. Parks Hamilton1863 – 64 Thomas J. Larsh Eaton1865 – 67 George Rex Wooster1868 – 71 Charles C. Kieffer Dayton
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 173
1872 – 74 J. Kelley O’Neall Lebanon1875 – 76 Reuben C. Lemmon Toledo1877 – 78 James W. Underhill Canton1879 – 80 James B. Hovey Marietta1881 – 82 Daniel A. Scott Akron1883 – 84 John W. Chamberlain Tiffin1885 – 86 Jacob L”H. Long Ottawa1887 William B. Hillman Cleveland1888 – 90 James W. Iredell, Jr. Cincinnati1891 – 92 William W. Savage Wilmington1893 Orestes A. B. Senter Columbus1894 Gibson H. Robinson Cleveland1895 Jacob H. Bromwell Cincinnati1896 George D. McBride Gallipolis1897 Grafton Molen Acklin Toledo1898 Benton D. Babcock Canton1899 Orion P. Sperra Ravenna1900 William M. Cunningham Newark1901 Levi C. Goodale Cincinnati1902 Nelson Williams Hamilton1903 Owen B. Hannan Canton1904 Lewis P. Schaus Columbus1905 William A. Reiter Miamisburg1906 William T. McLean Sidney1907 Lewis M. Lea Sandusky1908 Edward H. Archer Columbus1909 William T. S. O’Hara Toledo1910 Frank Crumit Jackson1911 Joseph Kirkup Cincinnati1912 Thomas H. Isitt Cleveland1913 William E. Evans Chillicothe1914 Charles L. Harrod Indianapolis1915 Frederick J. Crane Garrettsville1916 William A. Belt Kenton1917 John H. Baehr Cleveland1918 Harry W. Lloyd Toledo1919 Joseph T. Croxall East Liverpool1920 S. Rufus Jones Dayton1921 Frank L. Beggs Newark1922 B. F. Perry Jefferson1923 John P. Kuhns Columbus1924 Robert E. Lee Cuyahoga1925 Warren J. Baker Toledo1926 Irving Stafford Cleveland1927 Mont C. Hambright Springfield1928 Carl W. Sperling Oak Harbor1929 William H. Tateman Cincinnati1930 Emmit E. Everett Lima1931 Lyle S. Evans Chillicothe1932 Henry Gruen East Liverpool1933 Royal A. Walkup Akron
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter174
1934 Roscoe P. Walcutt Columbus1935 Franz K. Hall Shelby1936 Paul G. Lutz Cleveland1937 Burleigh E. Cartmell Delaware1938 John B. Harshman Dayton1939 George E. Reiff Cincinnati1940 Chester J. Pearce Bellefountaine1941 Burr A. Sanford Youngstown1942 George R. Schoedinger Columbus1943 Edward M. Selby Martins Ferry1944 Willard T. Francis Lorain1945 Frank DeLay Jackson1946 James A. Gorham Sandusky1947 Herbert T. Leyland Dayton1948 Virgil W. Prather Cincinnati1949 Amos H. Englebeck Akron1950 Anthony T. Vollman Columbus1951 Garrett P. Trostel New Carlisle1952 Edward E. Gillespie Toledo1953 Richard J. Morgan Van Wert1954 Stuart E. Jones Marion1955 E. Ray Jenkins Mansfield1956 Clayton W. Vetrovsky Cleveland1957 Carl P. Nulsen Cincinnati\1958 Oliver H. Ormiston Bartlett1959 Homer Trantham Columbus1960 Keith A. Porter Montpelier1961 Ben J. Filkins New London1962 Harry E. Sark Ashville1963 James W. Ferguson Youngstown1964 Joseph Alexander Cleveland1965 Clair E. Calaway Jefferson1966 Harold S. Barnheiser Dayton1967 Harvey Walker Worthington 1969
Ross W. Kreager Genoa1970 Charles E. Canfield Medina1971 Dwight L. Kane Lancaster1972 Charles A. Fly, Jr. Deshler1973 Cecil Bray, Jr., Cleveland1974 James A. Getty Elyria1975 Charles A. Noland Frazeyburg1976 N. Emerson Taylor Pickerington1978 Wilbur J. Doren Whitehouse1981 Vernon D. Lambert Cincinnati1983 Howard W. Beeman Cleveland1984 Frederick T. Williams Westerville1985 Paul Nyitray Toledo1988 Otis Y. Perkins Blanchester1989 John V. Cooper, Jr. Sherwood1990 Robert J. Maxwell South Euclid1991 Lawrence E. Johnston Blacklick
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 175
LIST OF VACANT CHAPTER NUMBERS
Number Name Location Charter Ended
13 Washington Middlebury 1827 Moved to Akron andrenumbered #25 in 1841
14 Webb Cleveland 1827 Merged with #205 198217 St Clairsville St Clairsville 1828 Merged with #107 199719 McMillan-Killwing Cincinnati 1846 Merged with #193 200325 Akron-Washington Akron 1827 Merged with #225 200230 Medina Medina 1846 Merged with #243 200032 Number never used33 Republic Republic 1847 Arrested 184437 McConnelsville McConnelsville 1848 Arrested 189041 Orion Felicity 1849 Arrested 189643 Batavia Batavia 1851 Cancelled 185952 Georgetown Georgetown 1853 Merged with #40 200056 Vinton Vinton 1854 Cancelled 188559 Gilead Cardington 1854 Merged with #54 199861 Somerset Somerset 1855 Surrendered 197165 Western Reserve Ashtabula 1855 Resumed as #8 in 190366 Mahoning Warrren 1855 Resumed as #10 in 195969 Barnesville Barnesville 1856 Merged with #53 199578 Moscow Moscow 1858 Cancelled 191879 Gallipolis Gallipolis 1858 Merged with #80 200281 Smithfield Smithfield 1859 Dropped 194482 Ripley Ripley 1859 Merged with #52 198883 Alliance Alliance 1860 Merged with #84 200885 Woodsfield Woodsfield 1861 Surrendered 189195 Goshen Mechanicsburg 1866 Surrendered 188597 Kilwinning Cincinnati 1866 Merged with #19 199698 Cadiz Cadiz 1866 Surrendered 1885101 Thatcher Cleveland 1867 Merged with #222 2004103 Fayette Wash. Ct. House 1867 Merged with #40 2004105 Delphos Delphos 1868 Merged with #169 1988106 Chardon Chardon 1868 Merged with #46 1984109 Wellington Wellington 1868 Merged with #219 1998110 New London New London 1868 Merged with #7 1980114 Cyrus Gnadenhutten 1869 Merged with #124 1999115 Ottawa Ottawa 1869 Surrendered 1941116 Cumberland Caldwell 1869 Merged with #53 2001117 Ivanhoe Bucyrus 1869 Arrested 1889118 Plymouth Plymouth 1869 Merged with #168 1940120 Celina Celina 1870 Merged with #51 1999121 Sawyer Wapakoneta 1870 Arrested 1885122 Summerfield Summerfield 1870 Dropped 1896125 Salisbury Middleport 1870 Arrested 1903127 E. T. Carson Yellow Springs 1871 Arrested 1884132 St. Paris St. Paris 1872 Merged with #34 1997133 Greenfield Greenfield 1872 Merged with #40 2002137 Coolville Coolville 1873 Arrested 1896
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter176
139 Baker Twinsburg 1874 Merged with #74 2004140 Belmont Bridgeport 1876 Merged with #107 1889145 Muskingum Dresden 1881 Merged with #50 1889148 Cleveland North Olmsted 1882 Merged with #214 1995151 Walnut Hills Cincinnati 1884 Merged with #164 1972154 Octavius Waters Delta 1886 Arrested 1994156 St. Bernard Nelsonville 1888 Merged with #39 1982163 Cardington Cardington 1896 Merged with #59 1936165 Paulding Paulding 1897 Merged with #71 1999166 Hillman Cleveland 1898 Merged with #222 1996168 Mechanicsburg Mechanicsburg 1901 Merged with #34 1979170 Mystic Lorain 1901 Merged with #244 1995174 Wellston Wellston 1903 Merged with #102 2004175 Lyons Lyons 1903 Merged with #154 1938176 Pt. Lawrence Toledo 1903 Merged with #161 2005179 Delta Cincinnati 1905 Merged with #193 2008180 West Milton West Milton 1906 Merged with #24 1994181 McKinley Cleveland 1907 Merged with #189 1984182 McConnelsville McConnelsville 1907 Surrendered 1935184 Montpelier Montpelier 1908 Merged with #45 2003185 West Union West Union 1909 Merged with #129 1980186 Nevada Nevada 1910 Merged with #96 1937190 Rising Sun Cleveland 1911 Merged with #189 1995194 Ft. Miami Maumee 1913 Merged with #191 1996195 Acacia Cincinnati 1914 Merged with #193 2006196 Collingwood Toledo 1914 Merged with #229 1995197 Glenville Cleveland 1914 Merged with #190 1988198 Robert Wallace Cleveland 1914 Merged with #134 1990199 Lake Erie Port Clinton 1914 Merged with #72 1978200 York Columbus 1915 Merged with #155 2000201 Deshler Deshler 1915 Merged with #58 1996203 Windermere Cleveland 1915 Merged with #189 1994208 Fort Industry Toledo 1918 Merged with #29 2006209 Akron Akron 1919 Merged with #25 1995215 Covington Covington 1920 Merged with #24 1993217 Keystone Cleveland 1921 Merged with #166 1941218 Arcanum Arcanum 1921 Arrested 1937220 Ralph R. Rickly Columbus 1922 Merged with #155 2002224 Harry S. Dunlop Nottingham 1923 Merged with #190 1988228 Charles Norton Willoughby 1924 Arrested 1938229 Alvin G. Myrice Sylvania 1927 Merged with #29 2006236 Linden Columbus 1952 Merged with #227 1995238 William S. Roof Franklin 1954 Merged with #87 1998239 Tau Dayton 1956 Merged with #16 2001241 Keystone Columbus Grove 1956 Surrendered 1976242 Westlake Westlake 1956 Merged with #214 1991244 Avon Lake Avon Lake 1960 Merged with #187 2003
RECIPIENTS IN OHIOGeneral Grand Chapter Distinguished Service Medal
Bronze Medal:
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 177
1952 Howard L. M. Jones(16) 1969 E. Mac Vestal (151)1953 John H. Pace (227) 1970 John F. Wilhelm (162)1954 Warren M. Kern (151) 1971 James H. Foreman (90)1955 Dillon Hattery (120) 1972 Richard D. Fogle (108)1957 Max O. Schockency (49) 1973 Howard Beeman (166)1958 Russell T. Goerke (226) 1974 Aaron Hard (226)1959 Elmer Wolf (225) 1975 Louis C. Koehnke (179)1960 Presdee B. Morgan (233) 1975 Ira H. Welker (83)1962 Jean Saylor (25) 1976 Anson L. Stratton (34)1963 Lawrence H. Haupt (96) 1977 Benjamin J. Franklin (209)1964 Frederick H. Albrecht (58) 1978 John R. VanScoyk (210)1965 Howard A. Wolf (158) 1979 Alvin G. Myrice (229)1966 Edwin A. Kenney (181) 1980 Robert Mitchell Clark (237)1968 Harold A. Weil (19)
Silver Medal: Gold Medal1972 Oliver H. Ormiston (108) 1975 C. William O’Neill
Recipients: Ohio Distinguished Service Medal1981 Wilmer W. Stanley (1)1982 William A. Powell (86) Anthony J. Caito, Jr. (97)1984 Charles L. Courtney (184) J. Clifford Conley (100)1985 John C. Woodworth (220) Dale A. Mathys (188)
Tom Moody (3)1986 Harold Printz Shank (32) James McHenry (120)
Herbert L. Snook (227) Russell L. Black (89)1987 Sydney G. Brooks (171) Burton J. Gephart (176)
Theodore Mack (128)1988 Lewis E. Kitchen (136) Donald L. Knoop (130)
Paul B. Ladd (42) James A. Schmidt, Sr. (227)1989 Ray E. Conkle (155) A. John Dobson (55)
James R. Koteles (30) John M. Worcester (162)1990 Billy O. Eley (169) Harley Kennedy (45)
Elmer R. Kurtzenberger (205) Roy S. Rinehart (102)1991 George T. Rosendaul (45) Floyd C. Smith (160)
Theodore H. Clime (172) Wilbur P. Bower (152)1992 Irving Roth (7) Richard P. (Dick) Daniels (227)
Hugh T. Rink (202) Billy E. Stutz (38)1993 Gerald W. Beardsley, Sr. (108) Frank A. Bush (83)
Alfred D. Maddox (226) Claude A. Pitman (189)1994 Randal A. Anderson, Jr. (239) Rexford E. Frey (230)
Willis E. Rader (178) Jacob A. Wallace (235)1995 Arthur A. Buchwald (135) Ronald Focht (169)
Vernon D. Freeman (200) John P. Miller (96)1996 Dallas F. Andrew (136) Charles F. Bean (72)
Richard D. Bolser (158) James N. Bowsher (60)1997 Leo Anatra (88) Homer C. Henry, Jr. (237)
Melvin R. Jeffries (25) Richard D. Snow (226)1998 Robert V. Caldwell (146) Joseph S. Dickson (189)
William V. McHenry (111) Louis J. Rice (84)1999 Henry R. Cline (178) Raymond R. Fischer (232)
Glen H. Reed (208) Thomas C. Croskey (128)
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter178
2000 Edward Brenneis (214) Paul J. Thatcher (119)Harold J. Parman (162) John E. Thomas (22)
2001 Chester A. Clime (227) Jack J. Price (63)Howard R. Watts, Jr. (6) William D. Williams (54)
2002 Carl W. Anderson (202) Harlan L. Foltz (9)Perry J. Parker (29) James E. Zemancik (128)
2003 Willimer V. Ames (38) Carl R. Deffenbaugh (92)Calvin R. Snipes (207) Carlos D. Ward (210)
2004 Paul E. Beck (88) Charles R. Cooper (245)Harold F. Haynes (55) Joseph B. “Jerry” Kuyoth (237)
2005 Thomas D. Branscomb (12) James R. Burgoon (3)Harry S. McClarran (27) Jerry K. Ross (153)
2006 Robert W. Case (96) Donald E. Flor (178)Clarence M. Martin (225) John A. McCollum (153)
2007 J. Thomas Foor (29) Larry R. Henderson (77)Albert L. Jeffery (128) M. Neal Wheatcraft (152)
2008 Ross R. Black, II (225) Curtis M. Jackson (227)Jonny L. Dicke (51) Robert R. Neff (155)
GENERAL AND GRAND MASONIC BODIES
Grand Lodge F. & A. M. of OhioM. Wor. Bro. Charles R. Murphy, Perrysburg ...........…………………..… Grand MasterM. Wor, Bro. George O. Braatz, Worthington……………………………Grand Secretary
Convenes in the city of Toledo, October 16 & 17, 2009
General Grand Chapter, Royal Arch Masons, InternationalM. Excellent Comp. Emory J. Ferguson, Cullman, AL..……….....General Gr. High PriestM. Excellent Comp. Larry E. Gray, Greenfield, IN ………...….. General Grand Secretary
Triennial convenes in Raleigh, NC., August 2011
Grand Chapter, Royal Arch Masons of OhioM. Excellent Comp. Robert J. Draye, Mayfield Hts. .............…..…...… Grand High PriestM. Excellent Comp. Dale G. Ray, Jr., Barberton ……………………..….Grand Secretary
Convenes in the city of Independence, October 7 & 8, 2009
Grand Council, Royal and Select Masons of OhioM. Illustrious Comp. Fred A. Boggs, Carrollton ……...……....………….....Grand MasterM. Illustrious Comp. Merlyn E. Meredith, Euclid………………………...Grand Recorder
Convenes in the city of Dayton, October 5 & 5, 2009
Grand Encampment, Knights Templar of the United StatesM. E. Sir Knight Richard Baldwin, Burke, Va, ....................…………....…..Grand MasterR. E. Sir Knight Lawrence Tucker, Bellaire, TX ….……………………..Grand Recorder
Convenes in Ronoake, Va. August 17-19, 2009
Grand Commandery, Knights Templar of OhioSir Knight Richard M. Holcombe,West Chester …..….Right Eminent Grand CommanderSir Knight Bruce D. Basil, Van Buren ……......……………………….….Grand Recorder
Convenes in the city of Columbus, October 9 & 10, 2009
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 179
MASONIC CALENDAR
Ancient Crafts Masons commence their era with the creation of the world, calling it ANNO
LUCIS (A. L.) “in the year of light.”
Add 4000 years to the common era. Thus: 2008 and 4000 = 6008
Royal Arch Masons date from the year the second temple was commenced by Zerrabul,
ANNO INVENTIONIS (A. I.) “ in the year of discovery.”
Add 530 years to the vulgar era. Thus: 2008 and 530 = 2538
Order of High Priesthood dates from the year of the blessing of Abraham by the High Priest
Melchizedek, ANNO BENEFACIO (A. B.) “in the year of blessing.”
Add 1913, the year of blessing, to the Christian era. Thus 2008 and 1913 = 3922
Royal and Select Masons date from the year in which the temple of Solomon was completed,
ANNO DEPOSITONIS (A. DEP.) “in the year of deposit.”
Add 1000 years to the common era. Thus: 2008 and 1000 = 3008
Knights Templar commence their era with the organization of the order, ANNO ORDINIS (A.
O.) “in the year of the order.”
From the Christian era, subtract 1119. Thus: 2008 less 1119 = 889
Scottish Rite is the same as Ancient Craft, except the Jewish Chronology is used, ANNO MUNDI
(A. M.) “in the year of the world.”
Add 3760 to the common era. Thus: 2008 and 3763 = 5771
Red Cross of Constantine dates from the year of the foundation of the Order after the battle of
Saxa Rubra, October 28, 312 A.D., near Rome and the official recognition of the Christian
religion by Emperor Constantine, ANNO ORDINIS “in the year of the Order.”
From the Christian era, take 313 years. Thus 2008 less 313 = 1695
********
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES2007 - 2008
ALABAMARichard E. McMasters, 1972 Kelsey Drive, Cuyahoga Falls, Oh 44221Paul L. Allen, 1223 Halsey, Gadsden, AL 35901
ALASKAFloyd E. Wymer, 1692 Cambria Mill Rd., Granville, OH 43023
ARGENTINADuane A. Kemerley, 456 S. Broadway St., Williamsburg, OH 45176-1015Rodolfo J. Rodriguez, Buenos Aires, Argentina, S.A.
ARIZONAJohn L. Hutson, Box 239, Warsaw, OH 43844Oscar T. Lyon, Jr., 712 W. Encanto Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 85007
ARKANSASGlen L. Opp, 1045 S. Main St., Rawson, OH 45881Johnny R. Owens, 8300 Bunch Rd., Mabelvale, AR, 72103-2823
BELGIUMWard Weber, 2688 Brittany Oaks Blvd, Hilliard, OH 43026Roland Verhelst, P. De Coninckstraat, 41, B-2600, Antwerpen, Belgium
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter180
CALIFORNIAJ. Keith Green, 2014 N. Elliston-Trowbridge Rd., Graytown, OH 43432Marvin V. Richardson, 1020 Johnstone St., Napa, CA 94558
ALBERTA, CANADAJames C. Pace, 231 Ironclad Dr., Columbus, OH 43214Mason Pound, 4506 50th Ave., Cambose, Alberta, Canada T4V 0R6
BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADANorman G. Lincoln, 204 W. Chicago St, Eaton, OH 45320Stephen E. McVitttie, 707-950 Cambie St. Vancover, BC, Canada V6B 5X5
MANITOBAVernon D. Freeman, 5407 Meadowood Lane, Westerville, OH 43082Terry J. Maxwell, 110 Hawthorne Ave., Dauphin, MB, Canada R7N 3E8
NEW BRUNSWICK, CANADASteven J. Oliver, 321 E. Spring Street, New Knoxville, OH 45871John H. Lingley, 80 Church St., Apt 121, Moncton, N.B. Canada E1C 9G1
NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR, CANADAJohn R. Gartrell, 642 Hardesty Ave., New Philadelphia, OH 44663Frederick Mitchell, 1 Wareham’s Road, Corner Brook, N.F. Canada A2H 7G5
NOVA SCOTIA, CANADAJ. Ralph Koffel, 2883 Opossum Hollow, N.E., Newark, OH 43055George R. O’Leary, Box 56, Brookfield, Nova Scotia B0N 1C0
ONTARIO, CANADAJames H. Foreman, 1110 Wahl Rd., Vickery, OH 43464Robert H. McKelvie, 344 Inverness Dr., Oshawa, Ontario, Canada L1J 5T4
QUEBEC, CANADAHerbert L. Clonch, 1105 Meadow Lark Dr., Enon, OH 45323J. R. DeCotret, 3235 Tailon St., Montreal, Quebec, Canada H1L 4K6
SASKATCHEWAN, CANADARalph M. Curtiss, 8198 Jug St Road, Alexandria, OH 43001J. Robert Porter, PO Box 759, Maple Creek, Saskatchewan, Canada S0H 1N0
COLORADOBilly P. Wright, 47 Raymond Ave., Shelby, OH 44875DeVerne C. Lehman, P.O. Box 312, Broomfield, CO 80038
CONNECTICUTWing Fun Chow, 3260 Lapland Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45239William F. Carroll, 78 Savarese Lane, Burlington, CT 06013
DELAWAREHenry Dodson, 3901 Archmore Dr., Kettering, OH 45440Mark E. Irwin, 317 Kalorama Rd., Sykesville, MD 21784
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIALarry E. Byrd, 940 Walhonding Ave., Logan, OH 43138Kenneth L. Foran, 5001 Seminary Road, Alexandria, VA 22311
GRAND LODGE OF MARK MASTERS of ENGLAND and WALESPaul M. Dunkel, 722 North Pickaway St, Circleville, OH 43113Timothy J. Lewis, Mark Masons Hall, 86 James St., London, SW1A 1PL, Eng.
FINLANDJames W. Himmelright, 631 E. Friendship St., Medina, OH 44256Antti Talvitie, Isannantie 21, FL-60200 Seinajoki, Findland
FLORIDAGeorge W. Geeslin., PO Box 248, Xenia, OH 45385Leroy E. Fackler, 1301 NW 112th St., Miami, FL 33167
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 181
FRANCERichard D. Hall, 6604 Loveland-Miamiville Rd., Loveland, OH 45140Claude Challiol-Rachlis, 18, Rue Foncet 06000, Nice, France
FRANCE, GRAND MARK LODGE ofCharles J. Briggs, 1067 Laurelwood Rd., Mansfield, OH 44907Jean-Louis Nanot, LaDeveniere, 8 chemin de la Maveria F-74290 VEYRIERSUR LAC, France
GEORGIAArthur E. Ross, 2405 Lofton Ct., Lawrenceville, GA 30044Joe E. Turner, PO Box 3226, Hampton, GA 30228
GERMANYJohn E. Ferguson, 2325 Harrison Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45211Ronald R. Peterson, Bahnhofstrasse 11, 97329 Gross Langheim, Germany
GREECEThomas F. Zeigler, 433 E. Bigelow Street, Upper Sandusky, OH 43351Fotios Kollias, 101 Grygoriou Afxentiou St., 157.72 Zografou, Greece
HAWAIIDonald Losasso, 5149 Bixford Ave., Canal Winchester, OH 43110Harry T. Hagaman, 222 E> Fallen Rock Rd., Grand Junction, CO 81503
IDAHOJoe E. Worthington, 1009 Southernview Dr., Ada, OH 45810David A. Grindle, 3549 N. Cole Rd., #205, Boise, ID 83704
ILLINOISJean W. Justus, 20060 Commercial Pt. Rd., Circleville, OH 43113Gary D. Hermann, Box 1044, Tremont, IL 61568
INDIADonald W. Owens, 1737 Orland Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45211M. Prabhat Kumar, c/o Gem & Co, 215/216 NSC Base Rd, Chennnai 066 001
INDIANAJames M. McDonald, 985 Winding Hollow Lane, Upper Sandusky, OH 43351James F. Garland, 1225 W. Rex St., Muncie, IN 47303
IOWAMichael A. Ralph, 360 Prospect St., Upper Sandusky, OH 43351Rick L. Butler, 22674 280th Ave., Exline, IA 52555
IRELANDFranklin C. Boner, 62 W. Stevens St., Newark, OH 43055Wm. J. Liggett, 17 Dillons Ave., Newton Abbey, County Atrium, N. IrelandBT370OSU
ISRAELBarry J. Siegel, 2599 Laurelhurst Rd., University Hts., OH 44118Daniel Doron, 11 Kharuv Street, Haifa, 34326, Israel
ITALYJames C. Eckard, 602 Daniels St., Toronto, OH 43964Sergio Di Lallo, Aeroporta, Civile, 50100, Firenze, Italy
KANSASR. Keith O’Dell, 712 Boyd Ave., West Union, OH 45693James D. Speakman, 3062 Avenue N, Windom, KS 67491
KENTUCKYRobert M. Huntzinger, 23 Ardmore Dr., Middletown, OH 45042J. B. Hitt, 3904 Gardenia Ct., Louisville, KY 40220
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter182
LOUISIANABeecher Vaughn, 3681 Echo Hill Lane, Dayton, OH 43430Benjamin F. Barron, PO Box 62, Oak Grove, LA 71263
MAINEJerry C. Crawford, 105 Fernwood Ave., Dayton, OH 45405John W. Moore, 35 North High St., Bridgton, ME
MARYLANDJames D. Rex, 629 N. Cole St., Lima, OH 45805Gilbert N. Kinnamon, 321 State St., Annapolis, MD 21403
MASSACHUSSETTSChester W. Hammond, 23 Kirkland Ave, Delaware, OH 43015Peter J. Andrews, 16 Ross St., Medford, MA 02155
MEXICOJeffrey L. Addis, 9269 Shady Lake Drive, #102, Streetsboro, OH 44241Fernando Calderon, Matires de Chicago #1697, 65550 Monteray, NL, Mexico
MICHIGANPerry J. Parker, 7450 Country Commons, Sylvania, OH 43560Herman A. Wedemeyer, 45189 W. Nine Mile Rd, Northville, MI 48167
MINNESOTAArthur Hightower, 8345 Brentwood Dr., Olmsted Falls, OH 44138Hugh C. Swift, Jr., 2345 260th St. W., Farmington, MN 55024
MISSISSIPPIJohnie I. Robinson, 1218 Poe Rd., Bucyrus, OH 44820Thomas L. Cumberland, 3405 Highway 53, Poplarville, MS 39470
MISSOURIRobert A. Wise, 4370 St. Rt. 19, Bucyrus, OH 44820Teddy Harrison, 16421 Crackerneck Rd., Independence, MO 64055
MONTANALynn Basinger, 680 S. Main St., Bluffton, OH 45817J. Clark McColly, PO Box 898, Lewistown, MT 5945
NEBRASKAH. Jeffery Shaw, 2400 Bellsburg Dr., Centerville, OH 45459Walter Johnson, 18200 N. Johnson Rd., North Platte, NE 69101
NETHERLANDSHoward E. Potter, 4818 Bean Road, Rome, OH 44085J. Engel, Bavelselaan 486, 4834 TL Breda, the Netherlands
NEVADAGeorge M. Shell, 8006 Browns Run Rd., Germantown, OH 45327David J. Guinan, 1110 Johnson Pl., Reno, NV 89509
NEW HAMPSHIRENorman J. Mick, 83 Whippoorwill Dr., Harrison, OH 45030Wallace F. Emerson, 12 Madison Ave., Hooksett, NH 03106
NEW JERSEYRandall B. Craven, 702 Fourth St., Brilliant, OH 43913Herbert R. Wood, 81 Hillcrest Rd., Whitehouse Station, N.J. 08889
NEW MEXICOHughey G. Deal, 2530 Warrensburg Rd., Delaware, OH 43015Charles S. Price, PO Box 4160, Albuquerque, NM 87196
NEW SOUTH WALESEdward F. Howard, 25 Ridge Ave., North Bend, OH 45042Bernard Wm. Binge, 8 Sackville St., Ingleburn, New South Wales, AU
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 183
NEW YORKKermit V. Zimmerman, 305 Bourbon St., Blanchester, OH 45107Carl J. Hassum, 297 Pewrkins Ave., Oceanside, NY 11572
NEW ZEALANDOpenJ. G. Naylor, 7 Kelvyn Grove, Manurewa, New Zealand
NORTH CAROLINAJohn C. Watkins, 1029 Kercer St., Miamisburg, OH 45342M. Gene Lewellyn, 9 Scottish Rite Ct., Greensboro, NC 27407
NORTH DAKOTARobert f. Benton, 1654 W. North Bend Road #2, Cincinnati, OH 45224Charles A. Richter, 304 Central Ave., New Rockford, ND 58356
OHIO, PRINCE HALL GRAND CHAPTERF. Raymond Sharritts, 1655 Lexington Dr., Lancaster, OH 43130Embie R. Bostic, 6000 Sunset Dr., Bedford Hts., OH 44146
OKLAHOMACurtis M. Jackson, 5088 Dalmeny Ct., Columbus, OH 43220Ralph K. Harris, 513 S. Fairfax Ave., Skiatoo, OK 74070
OREGONWilliam M. Berry, 310 N. Scott St., New Carlisle, OH 45344Harold Johnson, 2619 17th Place, Forest Grove, OR 97116
PENNSYLVANIASteven A. Duncan, 6278 Overture Dr., Dayton, OH 45449Gerald J. Hopple, 1009 Topview Dr., Harrisburg, PA 17111
PORTUGALPaul L. Tucker, 45 W. High St. #102, Painesville, OH 44077Nuno Alvares Pereira Maia, Rua Abilio Beca 148, 5300 Braganca, Portugal
QUEENSLANDT. Jack Estep, 200 Walden Rd., Heath, OH 43056I.C. Wylde, 12 Eleanor Ave., Underwood, 4118 Queensland, Australia
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILLIPINESOpenSamuel A. Laus, 48A San Joaquin St., San Francisco del Monte, Quezon City,Phillipines
RHODE ISLANDArthur T. Reeves, 50814 Hadley Rd., East Palestine, OH 44413Walter C. McFarland, 23 Laura St., Tiverton, RI, 02878
SCOTLANDRobert D. Crabbs, 1871 Rock Rd., Mansfield, OH 44903Allister David Black, 2 Hamilton Ct., 4 Dirleton Dr. Glasglow, G41 3BQ, Scot
SOUTH AUSTRALIARobert D. Blankenhorn, 2172 Satinwood Dr., Mansfield, OH 44903Harry R. Goatham, PO Box 11, St. Agnes, SA 5097, South Australia
SOUTH CAROLINARichard P. Williams, 6013 Edgebrook Blvd., Parma Hts., OH 44130Carl R. Truesdale, 2125 Airline Dr., Camden, SC 29020
SOUTH DAKOTAJames C. Stevens, 851 Bishop Ave., Hamilton, OH 45015Robert Livingston, 1725 Greenbriar St., Rapid City, South Dakota 57703
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter184
SWITZERLANDRobert L. Jordon, 626 W. Ohio Ave., Sebring, OH 44672L. Ch. Schumacher, Neidertufen, Switzerland
TENNESSEETerry B. Meyers, 110 Spring St., Cleves, OH 45002LeRoy Brewer, 2315 Hillrise Ave., Elizabethton, TN 37643
TEXASWayne S. Dill, 24656 Dorothy Dr., Brownstown, MI 48134Joe O. Estlack, 1902 Ashprington, San Antonio, TX 78251
UTAHTerry J. Margeson, 654 Wards Corner Rd., Loveland, OH 45140H. Ellison Dunlap, 1121 LaVon Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84106
VERMONTRobert J. Draye, 1271 Worton Blvd., Mayfield Hts., OH 44124Phillip D. Goss, 22 Sumner Ave., St. Johnsbury, VT 05819
VICTORIA, AUSTRALIACharles J. McCarty, 24501 Glenbrook Blvd., Euclid, OH 44117Kenneth C. Mawson, PO Box 66, Cohuna\3568, Victoria, Australia
VIRGINIARobert W. Thomas, 100 Meadowland Dr., Chardon, OH 44024Richard L. Thomas, 30 Algonquin St., Portsmouth, VA 23707
WASHINGTONWilliam L. Ferguson, 2712 Baker Ave., Cincinnati, 45211Herbert N. Weaver, 438C Wannacut Lake Road, Oroville, WA 98844
WESTERN AUSTRALIAGaris E. Pugh, 9527 Lakeshore Dr. East, Huntsville, OH 43324J.E.G. Evans, 26 Pennant St., North Perth, Australia 6006
WEST VIRGINIAWilliam D. Williams, 2484 Warrensburg Rd., Delaware, OH 43015R. M. Cavendish, 118 Harvey Ave., Oak Hill, WVa 25901
WISCONSINDale G. Ray, Jr., 1031 Wilbur Ave., Barberton, OH 44203Robert R. Traupman, 1620 N. 70th St., Wauwatosa, WI 53213
WYOMINGDonald E. Wilcox, 379 Canova Lane, Riverside, OH 45431Matthew J. Ramsey, 1341 Trabing Rd., Buffalo, WY 82834
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 185
Abstract of Returns made by Constituent Chapters of the Grand Chapterfor the year ending May 31, 2008
No Name Mem 07 Exalt Adm Rein. Died WD Sus Exp Mem08 G/L
1 Am. Union 358 11 1 0 6 5 13 0 346 -12
2 Cincinnati 99 4 0 0 2 1 0 0 100 1
3 Horeb 85 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 80 -5
4 Chillicothe 327 4 0 3 10 1 19 0 304 -23
5 Lebanon 295 5 0 0 8 1 0 0 291 -4
6 Warren 184 2 0 2 5 2 6 0 175 -9
7 Huron 49 0 0 0 3 0 2 0 44 -5
8 Wstn Reserve 48 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 45 -3
9 Zanesville 117 5 0 0 6 1 0 0 115 -2
10 Mahoning 155 7 0 0 5 0 1 0 156 1
11 Lancaster 187 2 1 2 6 1 5 0 180 -7
12 Ohio 117 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 123 6
15 Union 86 0 0 0 4 0 7 0 75 -11
16 Unity 230 2 0 0 4 5 15 0 208 -22
18 Hiram 130 0 1 0 5 1 22 0 103 -27
20 Circleville 81 0 2 0 3 0 1 0 79 -2
21 Hamilton 236 4 0 6 11 2 22 0 211 -25
22 Eaton 112 7 1 0 2 1 1 0 116 4
23 Mt. Vernon 173 7 0 12 6 0 17 0 169 -4
24 Franklin 155 6 0 0 9 0 0 0 152 -3
26 Clinton 166 3 0 0 17 6 4 0 142 -24
27 Wooster 108 3 0 0 5 1 2 0 103 -5
28 Mansfield 137 1 0 0 6 4 17 0 111 -26
29 Fort Meigs 388 10 0 1 20 0 4 0 375 -13
31 Piqua 81 1 0 0 4 0 0 0 78 -3
34 Urbana 216 3 0 0 9 2 4 0 204 -12
35 Milford 91 10 0 0 1 0 5 0 95 4
36 Xenia 165 5 0 0 8 0 11 0 151 -14
38 Tuscarawas 102 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 100 -2
39 Athens 207 4 0 0 7 0 17 0 187 -20
40 Hillsboro 284 10 3 0 13 3 5 0 276 -8
42 Seneca 142 0 0 0 3 1 4 0 134 -8
44 Trinity 137 0 1 0 8 1 2 0 127 -10
45 Northwest 77 0 0 0 4 1 1 0 71 -6
46 Painesville 106 3 1 0 1 0 0 0 109 3
47 Marshall 58 3 2 0 3 2 0 0 58 0
48 Springfield 130 2 0 0 3 3 1 0 125 -5
49 Lima 138 2 0 0 9 1 1 0 129 -9
50 Samaritan 148 2 0 0 3 1 0 0 146 -2
51 St. Marys 88 2 1 0 4 2 0 0 85 -3
53 Cambridge 105 1 1 0 3 2 4 0 98 -7
54 Delaware 182 4 0 0 7 1 4 0 174 -8
55 Wellsville 63 0 0 0 0 2 3 0 58 -5
57 New Carlisle 133 1 0 1 2 2 6 0 125 -8
58 Findlay 197 2 0 0 8 2 3 0 186 -11
60 Lafayette 123 1 0 0 7 0 0 0 117 -6
62 Marion 160 4 0 0 6 4 10 0 144 -16
63 Wilmington 83 4 0 0 4 1 1 0 81 -2
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter186
No Name Mem 07 Exalt Adm Rein. Died WD Sus Exp Mem08 G/L
67 Ashland 74 1 0 0 1 2 0 0 72 -2
68 LaGrange 183 4 0 2 10 0 7 0 172 -11
70 Trowel 62 1 0 0 4 2 11 0 46 -16
71 Van Wert 86 1 0 0 3 6 1 0 77 -9
72 Sandusky Cty 122 3 0 0 5 1 1 0 118 -4
73 Adoniram 103 3 0 0 1 0 2 0 103 0
74 Summit 89 0 0 0 7 0 0 0 82 -7
75 Logan 96 8 0 0 4 1 5 0 94 -2
76 Conneaut 41 1 1 1 2 1 0 0 41 0
77 Greenville 85 3 1 0 3 0 0 0 86 1
80 Pomeroy 227 5 0 0 9 2 1 0 220 -7
83 Alliance 86 0 0 0 0 86 0 0 0 -86
84 Canton 272 0 0 0 12 4 0 0 256 -16
86 Millersburg 40 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 40 0
87 Middletown 315 13 0 2 15 3 8 0 304 -11
88 Crestline 63 0 0 0 6 4 0 0 53 -10
89 Ensawocsa 88 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 84 -4
90 Clyde 99 4 0 0 4 3 1 0 95 -4
91 Tyrian 52 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 48 -4
92 New Lisbon 66 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 67 1
93 Youngstown 147 6 0 2 4 0 6 0 145 -2
94 Salem 80 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 80 0
96 McCutchen 114 3 0 0 2 0 0 0 115 1
99 Marysville 54 4 1 0 3 0 0 0 56 2
100 E. Liverpool 80 2 0 0 2 1 2 0 77 -3
102 McArthur 133 3 1 1 5 0 8 0 125 -8
104 Grand River 49 2 0 0 2 0 1 0 48 -1
107 Bellaire 128 3 0 0 2 0 1 0 128 0
108 RufusPutnam 129 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 127 -2
111 Wauseon 61 4 0 0 1 1 4 0 59 -2
112 Batavia 129 6 0 4 3 3 15 0 118 -11
113 Bellevue 48 2 1 0 3 1 0 0 47 -1
119 Scioto 100 1 0 0 5 0 0 0 96 -4
123 Minerva 105 0 0 1 5 1 2 0 98 -7
124 Nugen 61 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 61 0
126 Star 60 4 0 0 0 0 2 0 62 2
128 Oriental 73 1 0 1 3 0 6 0 66 -7
129 Manchester 39 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 38 -1
130 Sidney 52 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 51 -1
131 Willis 78 7 2 2 8 0 21 0 60 -18
134 Berea 90 0 2 0 4 0 0 0 88 -2
135 JA Meacham 42 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 39 -3
136 Haly 31 3 0 0 0 1 0 0 33 2
138 Ada 62 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 62 0
141 Jefferson 60 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 58 -2
142 Galion 72 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 74 2
143 Morrow 63 4 0 0 4 0 0 0 63 0
144 Silver Creek 70 4 0 0 0 1 0 0 73 3
146 Wyoming 136 10 0 0 3 4 16 0 123 -13
147 Geneva 52 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 53 1
149 N. Lexington 76 3 1 1 7 0 5 0 69 -7
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 187
No Name Mem 07 Exalt Adm Rein. Died WD Sus Exp Mem08 G/L
150 Garfield 77 5 0 0 6 3 0 0 73 -4
152 Chagrin Falls 81 2 1 1 6 0 0 0 79 -2
153 Blanchester 112 0 0 1 4 3 1 0 105 -7
155 York Temple 491 14 1 4 28 5 31 0 446 -45
157 Crystal 116 2 0 0 4 0 7 0 107 -9
158 Cumminsville 122 1 1 0 7 1 12 0 104 -18
159 Carey 55 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 55 0
160 Bucyrus 82 3 0 0 2 2 3 0 78 -4
161 Toledo 208 3 1 0 10 1 4 0 197 -11
162 Oak Harbor 187 6 0 1 3 0 4 0 187 0
164 Price Hill 74 1 0 0 3 0 1 0 71 -3
167 Golden Rule 58 1 0 0 4 0 0 0 55 -3
169 Spencerville 75 1 1 1 5 4 1 0 68 -7
171 Cadiz 79 1 0 0 4 0 0 0 76 -3
172 Walnut 185 3 0 0 4 1 4 0 179 -6
173 Martins Ferry 74 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 72 -2
177 Wakeman 79 6 0 0 4 0 0 0 81 2
178 Shelby 121 2 0 0 8 0 2 0 113 -8
179 Delta 98 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 97 -1
183 Wapakoneta 46 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 43 -3
187 Cunningham 117 1 1 0 7 1 8 0 103 -14
188 Hicksville 56 2 1 3 3 1 3 0 55 -1
189 Mount Olive 215 5 0 0 7 0 0 0 213 -2
191 Ft Miami - Cal 142 5 0 0 3 1 4 0 139 -3
192 Kent 113 3 1 0 3 1 0 0 113 0
193 Norwood 312 14 2 0 7 1 0 0 320 8
202 Portage 140 2 0 2 5 1 2 0 136 -4
204 E. Palestine 87 3 0 0 2 1 2 0 85 -2
205 Corwin-Webb 96 0 1 1 3 1 6 0 88 -8
206 Heights 85 5 1 0 4 1 0 0 86 1
207 King Cyrus 60 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 61 1
210 Victory 238 7 1 0 7 4 6 0 229 -9
211 Loveland 112 5 0 0 6 1 3 0 107 -5
212 Kinsman 73 1 0 0 2 1 4 0 67 -6
213 Ashlar 72 2 0 0 3 0 3 0 68 -4
214 West Park 91 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 91 0
216 West Gate 207 0 0 0 11 1 22 0 173 -34
219 Oberlin 64 0 0 0 3 0 8 0 53 -11
221 Toronto 91 2 1 0 6 0 1 0 87 -4
222 Covenant 159 3 0 0 5 2 6 0 149 -10
223 Niles 107 0 0 0 6 0 0 0 101 -6
225 Cuyahoga Fls 279 3 1 0 15 3 11 0 254 -25
226 H. W. Wright 165 0 0 0 8 0 16 0 141 -24
227 Community 219 4 0 0 7 2 0 0 214 -5
230 Mt. Moriah 141 2 1 0 7 2 4 0 131 -10
231 Willoughby 67 7 0 0 0 1 3 0 70 3
232 Rabboni 117 0 0 0 2 0 5 0 110 -7
233 P. B. Morgan 95 3 0 0 7 1 2 0 88 -7
234 Mariemont 117 3 2 1 4 12 4 0 103 -14
235 Palmyra 86 1 0 0 5 1 1 0 80 -6
237 Shawnee 274 5 0 1 18 3 19 0 240 -34
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter188
No Name Mem 07 Exalt Adm Rein. Died WD Sus Exp Mem08 G/L
240 Twin Valley 100 2 0 0 1 1 1 0 99 -1
243 Medina Cty 197 3 1 0 18 1 1 0 181 -16
245 Friendship 85 0 0 0 3 0 3 0 79 -6
Mark Lodges
North Bend 227 0 2 0 6 2 0 0 221 -6
Sr. DeMolay 232 1 2 1 4 0 1 0 231 -1
D. Warehime 80 3 1 0 1 0 3 0 80 0
Fayette 32 10 1 0 0 0 1 0 42 10
18961 430 45 62 732 263 592 0 17911 -1050
* * * * * * * *
ORDER OF HIGH PRIESTHOOD
Centerville, Ohio October 8, 2008, A. G. 3921
The Grand Council of Anointed High Priests of the State of Ohio convened in Annual
Convocation and was opened in ample form at 2:00P.M. on Wednesday, October 8, 2008, in Far
Hills Lodge No. 784 , Centerville, Ohio, with the following officers in their stations:
Most Excellent President…………………………….…....….Steven A. Duncan
Excellent Vice-President………...…………………………...... Dale G. Ray, Jr.
Excellent Chaplain……………...……………….…………....William M. Berry
Excellent Treasurer………….......................................... Kermit V. Zimmerman
Excellent Recorder……………....…………………………….... Jean W. Justus
Excellent Master of Ceremonies…..................................... James M. McDonald
Excellent Conductor………….……............................................John R. Gartrell
Excellent Herald…………………..........................................Louis S. VanSlyck
Excellent Steward………………….,,…………,,,, Donald W. Owens (pro-tem)
Excellent Guard……..……………………….…..………...... Curtis M. Jackson
Excellent Organist………...........................................………..… Christian King
Duet …………..............................................Arthur Kareth and Norman Lincoln
Historical Lecture .......................................................................... Wayne S. Dill
Make Up.………………………................................................. Michael S. Hale
Property....................................... Daryl Watkins, Larry Fisher & Henry Dodson
Degree Directors ................................................. Donald Wilcox & Larry Fisher
Servitors:
Robert W. Thomas Robert A. Wise Norman R. Neely
Glen L. Opp Kenneth E. Finkel James W. Himmelright
Committees:
Petitions: Wayne Dill Robert Crabbs Alan D. Hart
Auditing: John W. Purdy Terry B. Meyers Chester W. Hammond
Nominating: Jerry Crawford Charles J. McCarty William M. Berry
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 189
The minutes from the 2007 annual convocation, as having been printed in the proceedings,
were approved on a motion by M. Ex. Comp. Dale Ray and seconded by Rt. Ex. Comp. George
Shell. A motion was made Companion Kermit Zimmerman and seconded by Companion Donald
Losasso to pay the bills for the annual convocation. The motion passed.
Petitions for the Order of High Priesthood from 34 Companions were presented and referred to
the Committee on Petitions. The Committee on Petitions, having reported favorably and there
being no objections, all 34 Companions were elected to receive the Order. Those Companions,
being present, were then anointed, consecrated, and set apart to the Holy Order of High Priesthood
in due and ample form.
District Deputies Grand High Priest assisting in the ceremonies included:
REC R. Keith O’Dell, 5th District REC David A. Young, 7th District
REC Charles Bonecutter, 10th District REC Larry E. Byrd, 13th District
REC Larry Hess, 9th District REC William Whittenberger, 17th District
REC John C. Watkins, 3rd District REC Glenn R. Greenamyer, 18th District
REC Stephen F. Miller, 11th District
ROSTER OF CANDIDATES – 2008
Number Chapter Name
1 American Union John Hutchison
5 Lebanon William Murvay
6 Warren Charles H. Gaiser
6 Warren Paul Sands
10 Mahoning Alan R. Burton
20 Circleville Timothy P. Daulton
21 Hamilton Carl E. Smith
24 Troy Larry W. Britton
29 Ft. Meigs Paul C. Peters, III
35 Milford Harold L. Dice
36 Xenia Bruce Gardner
36 Xenia Lamar Noble
46 Painesville William M. Crecraft
55 Wellsville Robert L. Bogart
57 New Carlisle Ranold S. Seymore, Sr.
63 Wilmington Christopher R. Jones
75 Logan Matthew J. Schetter
76 Conneaut Roger Shaffer
84 Canton William E. Peters
87 Middletown Paxton Mendelssohn
112 Batavia Robert P. May
113 Bellevue Steven R. Herner
131 Willis Robert Duerler
160 Bucyrus Bruce Martin, Sr.
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter190
164 Cleves Arthur D. Bryant
192 Kent William S. Foutty
193 Norwood Jeffery S. Crocker
206 Heights Charles Cole
210 Victory Daniel Alen DeAngulo
225 Cuyahoga Falls Thomas R. Kish
233 P. B. Morgan Ford Cole
237 Shawnee Robert E. Lindsey
245 Friendship Steven Ford, David Needles &
Thomas R. Speltel
In addition to the officers and candidates, there were an additional 40 members registered that
afternoon. The cast of officers and other workers were introduced and thanked for their excellent
work by Most Excellent President Duncan.
The business portion of the Convocation was then conducted with the report of the auditing
committee being read by M.E.C. John W. Purdy. A motion was made and seconded to accept the
report as given. The motion passed.
Introduction of guests from other Jurisdictions, including Most Excellent Companion Paul
Johnson, Grand High Priest of Michigan, was made by Most Excellent Companion Wayne Dill. A
motion was made by Excellent Vice-President Dale Ray and seconded that all our out-of-state
guests be granted Honorary Memberships in Ohio Council of Anointed High Priests. The motion
passed.
The report of the Nominating Committee was given by Most Excellent Companion Jerry C.
Crawford. The following slate of officers was presented:
Most Excellent President………….… Steven A. Duncan
Excellent Vice-President……….…… Dale G. Ray, Jr.
Excellent Chaplain……………...…… William M. Berry
Excellent Treasurer………………….. Kermit V. Zimmerman
Excellent Recorder………………...… Jean W. Justus
Excellent Master of Ceremonies…..... Jim McDonald
Excellent Conductor………………... John R. Gartrell
Excellent Herald…………………...... Louis S. VanSlyck
Excellent Steward…………….…….. Donald L. Losasso
Excellent Sentinel…...…………...…. Curtis M. Jackson
There being no nominations from the floor, they were each declared elected to their respective
offices and duly installed in proper form.
There being no further business to come before the Council, it was closed in due form at 4:10
P.M.
Jean W. Justus, Recorder
Attest: Steven A. Duncan, Most Excellent President
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 191
INDEX
Abstract of Annual Returns ……………………………...………...….. 185 - 188Address of Grand High Priest………...………………………..…...…...17 - 36
Appointments………………………................………………...…… 26Appreciation………………………………………………….… 34 - 35By-Laws of Constituent Chapters, Approved…………...….........27 - 28Charities .............................................................................................. 32Conclusion…………………………………………………...……… 36Consolidations / Mergers…………………………………….…...…. 30Correspondence ……………………………………………….. 29 - 30Dedications Re-dedications………………….…..……………... 30 - 31Grand Officers Meetings………………………………………….…. 31Grand Lodge 200th Anniversary …………………………………...... 29Grand Representatives……………………………………..…… 26 - 27Mark Lodge Constituted …………………………………….……… 30Necrology………………………………………………………. 18 - 25Ohio Masonic Home …………………………………………… 32 - 33Proxies Issued……………………………………………...…… 28 - 29Recommendations…………………………………………………… 34Safety Deposit Box, Depositories, & Surety Bonds………………… 27Service Awards ………………………………………………….….. 32Visitations………………………………………………….………... 33Youth………………………………………………………….... 31 - 32
Appendixes:“A” Dispensations granted………………………….… 36 - 40“B” Visitations of Grand High Priest……………….… 41 - 45
Address of Welcome ….….………………………...………………...........… 12Apollo Dramatic Chapter:
Tabernacle No 1 ……………...………………………………...…… 89Tabernacle No 2 ………………………………………......……. 89 - 90Tabernacle No 3 ……………………………………………...… 90 - 91Tabernacle No 4 …………………………………………………..… 91
Appointments:Appointments for 2007– 2008……….……………………………… 26Appointment of Grand Officers for 2008 – 2009 …...……………… 48Appointments, Committees for 2007- 2008…………….…… 132 - 135Appointments, Committees for 2008 - 2009………………… 121 - 122Appointment, Ambassador to General Grand Chapter …...…. 122 - 123Appointment of Grand Representatives…………………………..… 26Appointment to Ohio Masonic Home ……………………….. 122 - 123Appointment of Royal Arch Foundation Trustees ………...………. 122
Awards:Distinguished Service presented at Grand Banquet………….…. 53 - 54Distinguished Service, Grand Chapter…………………….… 177 - 178Distinction, to Chapters……………………….….………..…… 64 – 65
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter192
District Work Horse…………………………………………………. 63Grand Chapter Golf Trophy ……………………………………...…. 70Grand High Priest’s Award of Excellence ……………………….…. 71Most Improved Chapter ……………………………………..……… 62Outstanding Chapter …………………………………………...…… 62Outstanding High Priest ………………………………………... 62 - 63Sojourner ……………………………………………………..… 62 - 63Star Awards & York Rite Plaques…………………...…….....… 63 - 64York Rite Plaque ………………………………………………...….. 64
Banquet:Attendees …………………………………………………….… 52 - 53Earl C. Gifford Distinguished Service Awards announced ….… 53 - 54
Budget for 2008 – 2009 ………………………………………..………… 49 - 50Bulletins:
Number 1……………………………………………………...124 - 144Number 2 ……………………………………………………..144 - 149Number 3 …………………………………………………......149 - 155Number 4 …………………………………………………..…155 - 160Number 5 …………………………………………………..…160 - 167
Calendar, Masonic…...…………..………………………….……………..… 179Chapter of Research Report ………………………….……………………..… 94Committee Reports:
Awards………………………………………………………..… 61 - 65Budget………………………………………………………...... 49 - 50Charity
and Benevolence……………………………………….…… 81Charters and Dispensations …………………………………………. 78Constituent Returns ..………………………………………...……… 80Credentials (1st Partial) …………………………………………….…. 6Credentials (final) ………………………………………………….. 79Education…………………………………………...………...… 65 - 69Endowed Membership ………………………………………...……. 87Finance ……………………………………………………...........… 49Grievance……………………………………………………….…… 87Jurisprudence …………………………………………………. 80 - 81Long Range Planning ……………………………………..…… 83 - 84Membership Development ……………………………………..…… 85Publications……………………………………………...………...… 83Public Relations………………………………………………… 91 - 92Ritual …………………………………………………….………….. 93Royal Arch Magazine………………………………………...… 82 - 83Royal Arch Research Assistance …………………………….… 87 - 89Symbolic Lodge Liaison……………………………………..…. 84 - 85Time and Place………………………………………………….…… 79Topical Reference ………….…………………………………..…… 45 York
Rite Cooperation …..……………………………….......… 81 - 82Unfinished Business ……………………………………..…………. 80
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 193
Youth………………………………………………………...…. 86 - 87Committees:
List of 2007 – 2008 …...………………………….......…..…. 132 - 135List of, 2008 – 2009 Standing committees …………………. 121 - 122
Dispensations Issued……………………………….…………….………. 36 - 40Distinguished Guests, Introduction of……………………………...……… 7 - 11District Deputies Grand High Priest:
Present at Convocation ……………………………………..…....…… 8List of, 2007 – 2008 ………………………………….…...… 129 - 131List of, 2008 – 2009 ……………………………………....… 120 - 121
District Education Officers:Present at Convocation ……………………………………..……..….. 8List of, 2007 – 2008 ……………………………………….... 131 - 132List of, 2008 – 2009 ………...…………………………………….. 121
Draye, Robert J.Biography and Masonic Record …………………………….. 170 - 171Response to welcome …………………………….………...……….. 12Acceptance of Election ………………………………..….………… 47Photograph ………………………………………………………… 169Presentation by 16th District ……………………………….………... 47Presentation of Grand High Priest Apron …………….…………… 120
Earl C. Gifford Ohio Distinguished Service Award:Recipients for 2008…………………………………………...… 53 - 54Introduced in Grand Chapter …………………………………..…… 69
Election, results …………………………………………………………..…... 47Fayette Chapter No. 60
Opening of Grand Chapter ……………………………………..….…. 5List of officers …………………………………………………..……. 5
Fayette Mark Lodge Constituted …………………………………………..…. 30Fraternal Correspondent Report ……………………………...………… 95 - 119Grand Bodies U.S. & Ohio, List of ………………………………….…....… 178Grand Chapter Officers:
Appointed for 2009 …………………………………………………. 48Elected for 2009 ………………………………………….…………. 47List of, 2007 – 2008 …………………………………...….…. 167 - 168Present at Convocation ………………………………………….....…. 6
Grand Convocation:Approval of Minutes, 2007 Convocation ……………...……………. 16Opening ………………………………………………………...…. 6 - 7Presentation of Colors ………………………………………………. 11Time and Place in 2009 ………………..…………………..……...… 79Closing ………………………………………………………..….... 123
Grand Representatives:List of……………………………………………………...…. 179 - 184Roll call …………………………………………………………..… 16
Grand Secretary’s report ………………………….…………………..…. 55 – 59
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter194
Grand Treasurer’s report ……………………………………………...…. 50 - 51Historian, Report of …………………………………………………........ 93 - 94Honorary Memberships, Grand Chapter ……………………………….......… 13Inactive Chapter Numbers ……...……………………………………....175 - 176Inspection, District and Regional Organization:
For 2007 – 2008……………………………………………… 128 - 129Installation of Grand Officers ……………………………………….... 119 - 120Jewel Presentations:
Past Grand High Priest …………………………………….………. 122Past District Deputy Grand High Priests …………………...……… 120
Masonic Calendar …………………………………………………………… 179Medals:
List of General Grand Chapter recipients …………………… 176 - 177List of E.C. Gifford Distinguished Service recipients ….….... 177 - 178
Memorial tributes:Acton, Daniel Dickson, Past Grand Marshal …………………….…. 23Didham, Edieann, Past C.E.O. of Adopt America ………..……. 22 - 23Hall, George, Grand Parliamentarian Emeritus ………………... 20 - 22McClure, Dewey A., Grand Guard Emeritus ……………….…. 19 - 20Rosendaul, George T. P.D.D.G.H.P. ………………………....... 18 - 19
Memoriam, for Other Grand Bodies ……………………………………….… 25Minutes approved ……………………………………………………….……. 16Necrologist, Report of ……………………………………..,…………..... 18 - 25Ohio Masonic Home:
Report, Annual by OMH Chairman of the Board………………....… 14Address by David Bannerman, CEO ……………...……...…… 14 - 16
Order of High Priesthood:Minutes …………………………………………………….... 188 - 190List of Candidates ………………………………………...…. 189 - 190
Past Grand High Priests:Present and Introduced ……………………………………..….…. 7 - 8Jewel Presentation…………………...……………………….…...... 122List of Living…..………………………………………….…. 171 - 172List of Deceased…………………………………………....…172 - 174
Photographs:Draye, Robert J. …………………………………………...………. 169Pugh, Garis E. …………………………………………….……….…. 2
Prayer:Opening Invocation, Wednesday…………………….…..…………… 7Benediction, Wednesday …………………..……………..…………. 52Invocation, Thursday……………………..………………..…… 54 - 55Benediction, Thursday…………………………...………...…….… 123
Proclamations:Opening of Grand Chapter …………………………………………… 7
Proposed Legislation ……………………………………….………………… 59
Royal Arch Masons of Ohio 195
Pugh, Garis E.Biography and Masonic Record ……………………………….… 3 - 4Comments ………………………………………………...……….. 119Grand High Priest address ……………………………….......… 17 - 36Photograph ………………………………...…………………………. 2Presentation of Past Grand High Priest Jewel ………………..….… 122Presentation of Grand High Priest’s Award ………………………… 71
Reception of Grand Master and comments ………………………..…...…..… 11Religious Re-affirmation Day, Report of ………………...……………… 92 - 93Reports of Grand Officers:
Report of Grand Fraternal Correspondent …………...…….…. 95 - 119Report of Grand High Priest ………………………………….... 17 - 36Report of Grand Historian …………………………………...… 93 - 94Report of Grand Necrologist …………………………………... 18 - 25Report of Grand Secretary ……………...…………………….... 55 - 59Report of Grand Treasurer …………………………………..... 50 - 51
Resolution, Insurance for Constituent Chapters …………………………. 59 - 61Response to Address of Welcome ………………………………...………….. 12Royal Arch Foundation:
Charity Auction results ……………………………….………..…… 71Financial report ………………………………………..…….…. 77 - 78Report ……………………………………………………..…… 71 - 78Trustees appointed …………………………………................…… 122
Royal Arch Research Assistance:Comments by Jim Wall, Chairman of R.A.R.A. ……….……… 69 - 70Report …………………………………………………..……… 87 - 89
Talks:Bannerman, David, CEO, Ohio Masonic Home ……….…….… 14 - 16Fairchild, William B., GHP Michigan ………………..….…………. 13Ferguson, Emory, General Grand High Priest ….………………..…. 46Charles V. Williams, III, GHP, Prince Hall Grand Chapter …… 16 - 17Smalley, Neil M., Deputy for Ohio, AASR…………..………...…… 48Wall, James B. Chairman of R.A.R.A. ……………..………..... 69 - 70Winnett, Ronald L., Grand Master of Ohio ……………………. 51 - 52
Time and Place, report ………………………………………………..………. 79Youth:
In Grand High Priests Address……………………………….… 31 - 32Report of Committee …………………………………………... 86 - 87
Proceedings of the Grand Chapter196