proudly serving the cause of patriotism. … · 2 the sojourner march - april 2015 national line...

THE SOJOURNERProudly serving the cause of Patriotism.Proudly serving the cause of Patriotism.

PURPOSESThe Purposes of National Sojourners shall be to organize Commissioned Of-

fi cers, Warrant Offi cers and Senior Non-Commissioned Offi cers of the uniformed forces (past and present) of the United States, and Honorary Members, who are Master Masons, into Chapters, for the promotion of good fellowship among its members, for assisting such as may be overtaken by adversity or affl iction, for cultivating Masonic ideals, for supporting all patriotic aims and activities in Ma-sonry, for developing true Patriotism and Americanism throughout the Nation, for bringing together representatives of the uniformed forces of the United States (past and present) in a united effort to further the military need of national defense, and for opposing any infl uence whatsoever calculated to weaken the national security.

PRONOUNCEMENTNational Sojourners believe in God as The Supreme Architect of the

Universe.We hold that political, economic and social problems are subsidiary to

and ever separate from that steadfast belief in God.We maintain that God must motivate man if present day problems are

to be solved and we urge active participation in maintaining that Govern-ment for which our forefathers fought.

Sojourners remember that George Washington once said, “When we assumed the soldier we did not lay aside the citizen.”

9 5 t h A N N U A L C O N V E N T I O N , O M A H A , N E B R A S K A , 1 - 6 J U N E 2 0 1 4S U B M I S S I O N D E A D L I N E I N T O T H E N E X T S O J O U R N E R I S 2 0 A P R I L 2 0 1 5

VOL. 92, No. 2 M a r c h - A p r i l 2 0 1 5 VOL. 92, No. 2 M a r c h - A p r i l 2 0 1 5

NEW HEADQUARTERS FOR NATIONAL SOJOURNERS INC.

7942 - R CLUNY COURT

SPRINGFIELD, VA 22153

National Headquarters is in the process of moving to it’s new location at 7942-R Cluny Court, Springfi eld, VA 22153. Phone numbers and emails will remain the same. Please be aware we plan to move at the end of March and hope to be fully operational by the 7th of April.

2 THE SOJOURNER MARCH - APRIL 2015

NATIONAL LINE OFFICERSJUNE 2014-JUNE 2015

PRESIDENTCAPT Merlen F. Howe P O Box 912 Lockhart, TX 78644512-398-9583Email: [email protected]

PRESIDENT-ELECTCAPT James N. Higdon10122 North Manton LaneSan Antonio, TX 78213210-344-4309Email: [email protected]

FIRST VICE PRESIDENTCWO4 James A. BakerP O Box 733Liberty Hill, TX 78642-0733512-515-5632Email: [email protected]

SECOND VICE PRESIDENTLt Col Ronald D.R. Sortino212 Edgewood LaneJacksonville, NC 28546-9200910-347-1660Email: [email protected]

THIRD VICE PRESIDENTCol Edward W. Nolte4702 Windcrest DrivePapillion, NE 68133=4767402-592-0184Email: [email protected]

SECRETARY-TREASURER MAJ William R. Sanner8301 East Boulevard DriveAlexandria, VA 22308-1399703-765-5000 / FAX: 703-765-8390 Email: [email protected] Website: www.nationalsojourners.org

CHAPLAINLTC Ira M. Flax3519 Kingshill RoadBirmingham, AL 35223334-322-0084Email: [email protected]

NATIONAL COMMANDER S/Maj John J. Brown41 525 Kalanianaole HwyWaimanalo, HI 96795808-551-8108Email: [email protected]

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF NATIONAL SOJOURNERS, INCORPORATED

THE SOJOURNER is published bi-monthly for $5.00 per year by National Sojourners, Inc., a non-profi t organization, 8301 East Boulevard Drive, Alexandria, VA 22308-1399.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE SOJOURNER, 8301 East Boulevard Drive, Alexandria, VA 22308-1399.

EDITOR: WILLIAM R. SANNER.Names and addresses included in this publi-

cation shall not be released for any commercial or charitable enterprise without the express writ-ten authority of National Sojourners, Inc. “The opinions or assertions contained herein, unless otherwise noted, are the private ones of the writers and are not to be construed as offi cial or refl ecting the views of National Sojourners, Inc., or any branch of the Federal Government.”

CAMEL CORPS

The reunion of the 1st Camel Corps was held in Laughlin, NV and as you can see, some national offi cers are at it again.

L-r: Katie and Joe Ryland before the banquet.

L-r: Bob Reynolds, Kermit Rosenthal, Joe Ryland, and Merlen Howe.

L-r: Bob Reynolds, Kermit Rosenthal, John J. Brown, Merlen Howe and Joe Ryland.

SECRETARY’S NOTES

I expect that by the time you are reading this the National Headquarters of National Sojourners, Incorporated may have moved to a new location. Collingwood has been our home for some 38 years and holds a special place in our hearts. But change is inevitable and we are relocating to a new home and will make this a place all Sojourners and Heroes can be proud to visit. Stay tuned for exciting times ahead with new challenges and opportunities to excel for all. We will continue to provide the quality service we have in the past and hope you have found that to be high. Everyone is invited to visit us in our new location. We should not be hard to fi nd and anticipate you will be pleased with our new surroundings. We will have a slight disruption of service, not to exceed a week. Expect things in general to stay on schedule. Look for your MIP dividend check shortly after the 15th of April and deposit it promptly. We will be gearing up for the Sum-mer Convention in Omaha and look forward to seeing you there.

MAJOR GENERAL EMORY UPTON CLUB #552 LTC MICHAEL A. FERRILL, SECRETARY, 484 UPTON DRIVE, ST.

JOSEPH MI 49085.

This Club was formed in June of 2014, in the City of St Joseph, Michigan. We have elected and installed our core of offi cers as: Pres. Cpt Edward D. Atwood; 1st VP 1SG Ronald L. Ravitch; 2nd VP SGT John H. Bellinger; 3rd VP Gust J. Anton; Sec/Trea. LTC Michael A. Ferrill; Adj. SGT Thomas W. McCoy. We look forward to increasing our membership by 100% at the end of the year. Our fi rst quarterly meeting will be held at Rays on the Green, in St. Joseph, Michigan on March 4, 2015. Please contact our Secretary if you have questions con-cerning membership in our South Western Lower Michigan Area (Cass County, Berrien County). We look forward in the years to come in growing this club.

MARCH - APRIL 2015 THE SOJOURNER 3

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

The excitement and good fellowship experienced by those who attended the Mid-Winter Meeting (MWM) in San Diego created some great memories, especially of the dancing by Lady Kathy Brown and the presentation on The American’s Creed by MS Joedy Adams. Thanks to all who contributed to making the meeting so great. Brother Jim Benson and his Lady Carol were absolutely superb with many eager hands assisting them in numerous needful areas. Thanks. Brother Paul and Lady Jane McCullough produced wonderful ditty bags. Well done!

Of great importance is the news of the change of location of our National Headquarters. Many hours of planning have been followed by the volunteer efforts of several National Sojourners to assist our HQ staff in moving with a minimum of downtime. BZ to all involved.

I am an Old Salt. When I began my naval career I was given a DOD resource on fl ag placement which I followed for years. Since the innocent misplacement of the fl ag in San Diego, I have been updated by three wise men. My thanks go to them and my apologies to anyone who thinks I disrespected our fl ag.

National Sojourners, Incorporated, recently received a gracious donation from our valued Brother Bill Turner. Two Military Service Flag Programs (Masonic and non-Masonic) will be reviewed by our Publication and Review Board. Should the PRB approve them, they will be another opportunity to present knowledge about the fl ags of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force. Thank Brother Bill for his contribution to NSI.

The National Line along with a number of Past National Presidents and their ladies attended the Conference of Grand Masters in North America in Vancouver, B.C., Canada, in mid-February. Brothers McVeigh and Sanders along with Mrs. Marlene Dibrell, the wife of a Past Grand Master of Texas, presented a wonderful session to many attendees. They addressed how National Sojourners can support Grand Lodges’ efforts to develop leadership and citizenship among the younger members of our Masonic family and other outstanding youth of our communities.

Looking ahead to Omaha and the Annual National Convention (ANC), I encourage you to complete the registration form which is on the website and is available from your chapter secretary. This year the ANC will be held the fi rst week in June. Tour information also is or will be soon on the website. Omaha has also many other things for the adventurous and curious to see and do besides the organized tours.

Judy and I anticipate greeting you in Omaha and we expect you will have a good time.

Merlen Howe

LIVING THE FIVE POINTS OF FELLOWSHIP

BY ANDREW J. MCVEIGH III, PNP

It is my observation that the Na-tional Trustees have become the per-sonif ication of the Master Mason’sFive Points of Fellowship. They have trav-eled great distances on foot symbolically for years to assist their brethren to serve the youth of our country by providing training in leadership, Americanism and patriotism. National Sojourners started a great expan-sion of our youth outreach program through our partnering in 2001 with the Military Or-der of the World Wars to assist in spreading and staffi ng Youth Leadership Conferences (YLC) across the United States.

Many of us have knelt on our knee to petition the Great Architect of the Universe for guidance, strength and help in obtaining the monies necessary to adequately fund the recurring expenses required for trans-portation to and scholarships for the quality youth in our areas of responsibility to attend Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge or regional YLCs. The National Trustees have petitioned the Internal Revenue Service and received permission to provide the Spirit of America Education Foundation (SAEF) to our Order as a 501(c)3 non-profi t organization. Each of our Chapters are now afforded the use of SAEF to solicit, bank and distribute non-profi t funds to pay for YLC scholarships and transportation, ROTC medals and certifi cates, and the Americanism Essay Contest.

All of our Chapters need some form of assistance and some may be in dire straits. The National Line and Trustees are Masons who will keep your secrets in their breast and will assist you and your Chapter with the vicissitudes you face. They spent eight years making our National Sojourner Con-vention Corporation into a very low profi t business that professionally serves the Order. The National Trustees have devoted seven years in developing the National So-journer Souvenir Book into a prideful entity.

Your national Order does not want you to stumble and fall. Our hand is at your back and we are bound and determined to prevent injury or embarrassment to you. Please use our resources such as the Chapter Revitalization and Chartering Committee if your Chapter is not succeed-ing. Whisper into our ear so that we may defend and support you. However, if we see you acting untrue to your working tools, we are obligated to whisper in yours. Com-municate, communicate, communicate to start receiving assistance.


RIGHT & WRONG A CASE FOR MORAL ABSOLUTES

We are in a decade marked by “culture wars.” Having lost a dominant moral consensus, we are struggling in our courts, voting booths, and even in our churches to resolve the diffi cult moral issues that are separating us.

Many have decided that the answer is tolerance, open-mindedness, and mutual respect, while others are convinced that there is a time “to be our brother’s keeper.” They are certain that we cannot afford to merely abandon the moral values of the past and act as if it doesn’t matter what we believe in regarding our choices in pursuing our goals in life.

Like the physical law of gravity, moral absolutes can seem at times as if they do more harm than good. This is the mindset of the world in which we live. The values and logic of a relativistic age are so woven into the fabric of our culture that it is easy to forget the story of history.

Let us not forget who we are and what we stand for. We are Freemasons, Sojourners and our convictions to Faith, Hope, Charity and Patriotism should be boundless and not concerned with being right or wrong. Not just right, but morally right.

Yours in friendship

Raymond J. Vanden Berghe, Sr. National Chief of Staff - Heroes of ‘76 IEAR EIAR

FEDERAL AREA WELL REPRESENTED DURING ST. JOHN’S DAY CELEBRATION

Members of The Federal Area turned out to support the 2014 Celebration of St John the Evangelist in Williamsburg VA right after Christmas. They were Randy Geck, Federal Area Representative, Dave Miller President Patuxent #522, Ed Ford 1st Vice President Baltimore #7 and Past Grand Master Ste-phen J. Ponzillo, III. The festivities started in

the morning when Williamsburg Lodge # 6 opened in the Entered Appetence Form and Brother Geck provided the Masonic History of our Pledge of Allegiance and a Toast to the Flag. Then the men joined the ladies for a lovely lunch followed by the traditional march down Dog Street in the Historic Wil-liamsburg to the Bruton Parish Church, led by the Fife and Drum Corps and over 80 Masons, where the traditional St John’s Sermon was presented. Then the Masons, once again, marched back to the Lodge through this main street entertaining a very enthusiastic crowd. The day was warm and sunny and it could not have been better for all to enjoy the celebration.

FROM THE NATIONAL COMMANDER

Aloha,Mahalo nui loa to everyone that assisted in making the Mid-year meeting in San Diego a

successful event. Kathy and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. As I have said before, these events do not just happen. A lot of planning and hard work goes into these endeavors. NASOCOCO and the host chapters deserve a “well done.” The joint National President and National Commander’s banquet had a hula dance group perform that will be long remembered by those in attendance. Well done to my wife for the hula lessons, even though her students were dancing-impaired. I’m hoping that there are no incriminating pictures that will surface later. And a special thanks for her Hawaiian cultural dancing at the Ladies Luncheon and impressive dances at the Friday banquet.

June 1st will be here before you know it and I am looking forward to seeing all of my Sojourner and Hero brothers and their ladies again in Omaha.

I was once asked which Masonic body I preferred; the Scottish Rite or the York Rite. I referred to my two sons. They are two different personalities however, I love them both the same. I must admit though, that I have a special fondness for the Sojourners and Heroes of ’76. In my opinion, the combination of Masonic and Military service provides a camaraderie that cannot be matched.

As I refl ect on my theme for this year, SERVICE TO GOD, COUNTRY AND CORPS, I ask of all HEROES to promote our worthy organization by being that Mason that SERVES.

Semper Fidelis, EIAR


CHAPTER NEWS

KNICKERBOCKER – WEST POINT #13, LTC Jack H. Moore, Secretary, 145 Lincolndale Acres, Washingtonville, NY 10992. Despite freezing temperatures and snow, Sojourners and their ladies met at the Old ’76 House on 22 February, in Tap-pan, NY to celebrate Bro. Washington’s birthday. The Old ’76 House is an historical

tavern that was founded in 1686 and was a famous meeting place for Patriots during the American Revolution. It too, served as a prison where British spy, Major John Andre was held and questioned by Gen-eral Washington for his involvement with General Benedict Arnold in the plan to sur-

render West Point to the British. Following a great brunch, the group adjourned to the nearby DeWint House for a short meeting and ceremony celebrating Bro. Washing-ton’s birthday. The DeWint House was used by Bro. Washington as a temporary headquarters during the Revolution when he travelled through the area. The home is owned and operated by the Trustees of the Masonic Hall & Home of the State of NY. Knickerbocker-West Point Sojourners planned their next gathering for a Sunday meeting and noon luncheon on 19 April, at the West Point Masonic Lodge in Highland Falls.

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN #16, Leonard R. Bezar, Secretary, 31455 Valley Forge Circle, King of Prussia 19406. Our pro-grams to date for 2015 have both been centered on the U.S. Army Air Forces of World War II.Our January Meeting speaker was member Walt West, who gave a slide

presentation of his year at a WWII Army Air Forces isolated weather outpost 300 miles above the arctic circle, near the native Greenlandic village of Scoresbysund on the northeastern coast. The Year was August 1945 to August 1946. His presentation included photos taken of their station du-ties and life, along with some photos taken when they accompanied native hunters on their efforts to obtain food for their families in their food-bare subsistence economy. Bro. West also covered the logistical diffi culties of returning the eleven of them home again for discharge, after the end of the war. They were recognized as the last American ser-vicemen to be discharged from WWII duty. He has made two trips back to this remote area of Greenland in recent years.

At the February meeting, our Secretary Len Bezar, 33 deg. gave a very informative and interesting talk with slides on the life of fi ve star General of the Armies ‘Hap’ Ar-nold. Bro. Len gives this presentation each year to the students of Lower Merion High School, in the local suburban community where he lives. Hap had graduated from this school, and then went on to West Point and Army service. He became one of the fi rst pilots in the Army, just a few years after the fi rst fl ight of the Wright brothers in 1903. In the years preceding and during World War II, General Arnold was instrumental in devel-oping and committing resources necessary to build and lead our Army Air Forces to win the War. During his years of service, Hap became a 33rd degree Mason. Also at the February meeting, new member Michael McKee, Special Assistant to the R.W. Grand Master, was sworn in.

FT SAM HOUSTON #17, Col. James R (Bob) McConnell, Secretary, 134 Rhonda Drive, Universal City, TX 78148. On the evening of 11 February 2015, 115 people ar-rived at the Hilton San Antonio Airport for the Annual Bridge of Light Dinner Meeting. The social hour ended with Pres. T. K. Anthony opening remarks and Chap. Freddie Free-land’s prayer asking God’s blessing on our meal and meeting. The meeting was formal-ly opened by Bro. Anthony at 2000 hours, followed by the prayer and pledge to our fl ag. The Toast to the Flag was performed by PNP Elliott Samuels. Bro. Anthony turned the program over to Bro. Elliott Samuels, the Master of Ceremonies. Bro Samuels gave a brief history of National Sojourners and some of the programs we participate in and some that a few of the sitting Worship-ful Masters were not aware. Bro. Samuels introduced the dignitaries in attendance beginning with the Chapter sweethearts. Bro. Elliott Samuels, then introduced the guest speaker, the MW Michael L. Wiggins,

Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Texas, and his lady Tanya. Bro. Samuels recounted the highlights of MW Wiggins biography and the various Masonic organizations of which he is a member. The podium was then offered to the Grand Master to pres-ent his remarks. The GM thanked us for honoring the Masters of the San Antonio area’s Masonic Districts, and stated that he had attended a Chapter 17 Bridge of Light in 1987. He proceeded to honor the gathering with his remarks which were well received and were followed by a standing applause from all members and guests. As a token of appreciation for his attendance and service to Texas Masonry, Bro. Anthony presented the Grand Master with a Bridge of Light Certifi cate. At 2110 hours Bro. An-thony formally closed the Chapter, thanked everyone for their attendance, and wished them God Speed and a safe journey home.

GM Wiggins and Pres. Anthony

TINKER #43, CW4 Daniel A. Burchett, Secretary 4800 NW 48th Avenue, Nor-man, OK 73072-1201. Dressed in Colonial uniforms the Flag team consisting of Bros. John King, Hank Riebel, Jeff Fluker, Greg Fowler and Dan Burchett had the distinct honor of leading the November 15, 2014 Veterans Day Parade in Blanchard, Ok.

At the December stated meeting we had Ms. Gail Andrews (director of the Mid-Del Youth Crisis Center) as the guest speaker of the evening. She explained in detail how so many abused and needy children from infant to teenagers come to the center in poorly cared for and highly distraught men-tal conditions. The center provides loving care, clean clothes, food and shelter and endeavors to improve the children’s health, emotional and personal attitudes in a loving


home situation. The chapter adopted the Crisis Center as its 2014 Christmas season Charity program and was pleased to pres-ent Ms. Andrews $717.00 as a donation to help support the centers exceptional work with these young children. The center oper-ates on donations for their funds.

SPOKANE #102, Lt Col Ivan M. Iver-son, Secretary, 9818 North Wieber Drive, Spokane, WA 99208-9467. On Dec. 9 2014 some of our bros. and their ladies attended the Spokane, Washington Veterans Hospi-tal Christmas Party bearing boxes of Man-darin Oranges to be enjoyed by the patients.

L-r: Sgt Jerry Gendreau, PP; Lady Ninna; Lt Col Curly Werner; Lady Beverly Bra-toude; Joe Rogers; Lady Delby; SSG Tom Upchurch, PP.

PASADENA #265, LTC Joe Ryland, Secretary, 5215 Kauffman Ave, Temple City, CA 91780-3948.

L-r: Bros. Marty Mihal, Lee Whelan, and the bald head of Brett MacDonald. At the February meeting Our National President, Merlen Howe, and his lovely wife, Judy, were our guests. Those present at the meeting were favorably impressed with his message. Merlen and Judy were well received by everyone. In March our Chapter Nominating Committee met and prepared a slate of offi cers for the 2015-16 Sojourner year. Our 1st Vice President, Jeremy Chongco, also proposed the names of those committee chairmen he planned to appoint for the next year. All offi cers and committee chairmen were contacted and they agreed to accept their new jobs and each indicated that he understood the requirements of

his new offi ce. Then, at the April meeting the Nominating Committee presented the names they had agreed upon. There were no nominations from the floor, so each person nominated was duly elected. At the June chapter meeting there will be an installation of the new offi cers.

ARROWHEAD #421, Mr. Robert A. Jacob, Secretary, 6736 Harwood Circle, Palm Springs, CA, 92264-6730. On Janu-ary 15th – 16th, 2015 the National Sojourn-ers Mid-Winter 2015 Meeting took place in San Diego which was attended by Bros. Imanuel Eisendle, Pres. and Robert Jacob, Sec. It was a very informative meeting and we had the pleasure to meet with many fellow National Sojourners from the United States and Canada.

L-r: Bros. Imanuel Eisendle, NP, Merlen F. Howe, Robert Jacob

L-r: Bros. Imanuel Eisendle, Robert Jacob.

On February 7th at “Fort El Bekal” Bro. Imanuel Eisendle after several trips to the “D” was inducted into the Heroes of ’76. Bro. Imanuel was sponsored by Bro. Roger Rothrock who was unable to attend, so he selected the Bro. Robert Jacob to act as Imanuel’s sponsor.

L-r: Front Row: Bros. Joe Dougherty, Kermit Rosenthal, Robert Jacob, Imanuel

Eisendle, Van Owen, Dick Schowengerdt, Jeremy Chongo. Back Row: Bros. Rees Padfi eld, Bob Reynolds, Jay Gromme’, Ray Godeke, Chuck Bruggeman, Larry Mount-joy, Jack Carlson. (Photo by Robert Mason)

On February 10th we welcomed National President Merlen F. Howe and his Lady Judy at our meeting at the Arrowhead Country Club in San Bernardino. He gave us interesting information about the Mid-Winter 2015 Meeting in San Diego. We presented him with a gift and thanked him for his visit. Bros. Van Owen and Douglas Bridges affi liated with us as MIP members. We installed Bro. Dan Oates from Palm Desert as member. Congratulations to our newest members.

L-r: Bros. Imanuel Eisendle and NP Merlen F. Howe

National President Merlen F. Howe con-gratulates Bro. Wendal L. Busboom to his 50 years of being a Sojourner.

Bro. Joe Ryland, PNP, gave an out-standing Toast to the Flag of The United States Of America


2015 RESOLUTIONS2015-1 RESOLUTION

RESOLUTION ON MEMBERSHIPWhereas Honorary Membership in Na-

tional Sojourners, Inc. can be conferred upon Commissioned Offi cers and Warrant Offi cers or the equivalent who have served during time of war in an armed service of a nation allied with the United States, and

Whereas the United States has not been engaged in an offi cially declared war since World War II, and

Whereas the allied personnel who served in World War II are dying at an increasingly rapid rate and will no longer serve as a source of allied Honorary Members, and

Whereas the United States has been engaged in numerous confl icts wherein the Nation has benefi ted from services of the armed forces of nations allied with the United States in these confl icts, and

Whereas these confl icts have been rec-ognized by the issuance of campaign and service medals to military participants by the Department of Defense, and

Whereas National Sojourners, Inc. can provide a common Masonic – military struc-ture for cementing fraternal bonds among our military brethren, and

Whereas National Sojourners, Inc. active membership is open to Commissioned, Warrant and Senior Non-Commissioned Offi cers, now

Therefore Be It Resolved that Article 3 (Membership), paragraph 3.1.1 of the Na-tional By-Laws, be amended to read:

“… or have served in time of war, or confl ict recognized by the Department of Defense with the issuance of a campaign or service medal, as a Commissioned Offi cer, or Warrant Offi cer or Senior Non-Commissioned Offi cer or the equivalent in an armed service of a nation allied with the United States, or:” and

Be It Further Resolved that National Regulation 3.1, paragraph 2.a. Active Mem-bers, be amended to read: “… or who have served in time of war, or confl ict recognized by the Department of Defense with the issu-ance of a campaign or service medal, as a Commissioned Offi cer, or Warrant Offi cer, or Senior Non-Commissioned Offi cer or the equivalent, in an armed service to the Na-tion of a nation allied with the United States.”

2015-2 RESOLUTION

RESOLUTION AMENDING THE BY-LAWS AND NATIONAL REGULATIONS

Whereas: Our current By-Laws and Reg-

Bro. Imanuel Eisendle congratulates Bro. Dan Oates to his becoming the new-est member.

On Saturday February 14th Bros. Imanu-el Eisendle and Robert Jacob represented us at the Annual SOCAL AREA BUSINESS CONFERENCE/LUNCH held at the Santa Ana Elks Lodge #794, 212 Elk Lane, Santa Ana, CA.

L-r: Bros. Imanuel Eisendle, James F. Helt, Regional Rep. South, California Area South and Robert Jacob.

NORTHEAST FLORIDA #435, Capt Christopher C. Lanham, Secretary, 1015 Arthur Moore Drive, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043. We initiated and welcomed Joseph H. Wright into the Sojourners on January 7, 2015.

L-r: Standing: Bros. Kolen Sawyer, Pres.; Joseph H. Wright, new member; Robert Shellenberger, P.P., PC; and Christopher C. Lanham, Secretary.

L-r: Bros. Kolen Sawyer, Pres., Donald Cooper, CDR, USN, Retired; Mrs. Robert Cooper, and Robert Cooper, PP, PC, fa-

ther of Donald Cooper. Our speaker for the evening, Donald Cooper, CDR, USN, Retired, who spoke about the challenges of teaching school and instilling discipline at our high schools. He teaches school and is in charge of the Jr. ROTC unit at a new Boys Academy in Jacksonville.

NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA #537, MSG Raymond M. Davis, Jr., Secretary, 14900 NW 46th Avenue, Alachua, FL 32615. On January 14, 2015, Brooker Lodge #9 with Honorary Member Ray Da-vis, and the Gainesville Chapter of the Sons

of the American Rev-olution, dressed in his “Ancient” Colonial Uniform, made patri-otic talks to all grades K - 5 at Brooker Ele-mentary School. The topics were the poem named “Why I Love America”, as recited by John Wayne. He also gave a history lesson on the Star Spangled Banner which was fl own over Ft. McHenry. Brooker

Elementary School has been adopted by Brooker Lodge and the members frequently volunteer time at the school. The Lodge pre-sented students with special awards along with money for being outstanding students.

PAST MASTERS #997, CPT Chris R. Christoff, Secretary, 1990 Doris Ave., Los Osos, CA 93402. We held our semi-annual meeting during the Mid-Winter Meeting on January 15, 2015 in San Diego, California. We had an attendance of 43 members and guests from which 2 guests submitted their applications for membership. At the MWM in Orlando, Florida interest was shown about amending our Chapter By-laws to include 3-6-5 Club Life Membership as part of the initiation fee. A draft document was submit-ted to the membership for discussion at our meeting during this MWM. However, an er-ror was noted in the draft amendment and it was withdrawn. It was rewritten as follows: The proposed change to our By-Laws is to ARTICLE III, MEMBERSHIP. It is amended to add “Section 3. After 1 January 2016 all new applicants will be required to purchase a 3-6-5 Club Life Membership in this Chap-ter.” Discussion and voting will take place in our Meeting during the National Conven-tion in Omaha, Nebraska, June 1-6 2015. Please make every effort to be present.


ulations require non-substantive changes to correct style, formatting, and to provide complete and correct English sentences;

Whereas: Article 3, Membership requires a change to the By-Laws whenever the defi nition of an Active member is changed;

Whereas: Article 4 currently states the sole legislative body is the ANC; and,

Whereas: Other of the foregoing Ar-ticles and National Regulations should be amended as proposed;

Now, Therefore Be It Resolved that the By-Laws and/or National Regulations be amended as hereinafter proposed:

1. All applicable provisions be amended to correctly state the correct name and/or title as follows:

a. The correct legal name of our Order is National Sojourners, Incorporated, not National Sojourners, Inc.

b. The correct title for the National Secre-tary is National Secretary-Treasurer.

c. These and other similar “changes”, including adding “National” to precede President or President Elect, for instance, are made throughout the By-Laws, as well as NRs.

2. Article 3 be amended to break down the fundamental criteria for membership in the Order, i.e., a U.S. citizen; a Master Mason in good standing in a Lodge recognized by the Conference of Grand Masters or one of its Grand Lodge members. All other require-ments for Active and Honorary membership are to be moved to NR 3.1, where they are more specifi cally defi ned. Thus limiting the necessity to amend the Article 3 of the By-Laws and NR 3.1 every time the defi nition of an Active Member is changed.

3. Article 4 be amended to more cor-rectly state that the “sole legislative body” of NSI is the “duly accredited delegates in attendance” at an ANC rather than the ANC.

4. Article 6.1.1 be amended to more specifi cally state who are included in the National Progressive Line.

5. Article 7.2.4 be amended to read “Elected and Appointed Chapter Delegates” since some of our Chapters elect some and appoint some delegates to ANC.

6. Article 7.5 be amended to provide that all ANCs and MWMs shall be “contracted and managed” by NASOCOCO, which is a more specifi c statement of its duties by add-ing “contracted” in addition to “managed.”

7. Article 8.1.5 be amended to delete it identifi cation of the NASOCOCO as a National Committee/Body since its func-tion is more appropriately and adequately addressed in Article 7.

8. Article 8.2.12 and 8.2.13 be amended to correctly state the name of the Chapter Revitalization and Chartering Committee (Article 8.2.12) and to add the Information

Technology Committee (Article 8.2.13), both of which actions were approved and man-dated at the 2012 ANC, but the By-Laws were apparently not updated thereafter.

9. Article 12.5 be amended to provide that a Chapter’s By-Laws and changes thereto must be approved by the NST as well as the National Judge Advocate.

10. Article 12.9 be amended to provide that a Chapter’s dues shall not be less that the minimum specifi ed in NR 19.8.

11. Article 16 be amended to, not only make cosmetic changes thereto, but to add the word National preceding Resale Activity in the title and body and provide that the list of all items for sale to be posted on the Order’s website.

12. Article 19.8 be amended to add that the schedule of fees shall be in accordance with Article 12.9 of the National By-Laws, in addition to NR 19.8.

13. In view of the impending demise of CLMA, that Article 19.9 be amended to provide that, if NSI demises, its funds and assets shall go to the George Washington Masonic National Memorial Association, Inc. rather than CLMA as our By-Laws cur-rently provide.

14. Article 20.2, which presently provides that notice of proposed amendments to the By-Laws and NRs, such as these that are proposed, be provided to Chapters by “writ-ten notice”, but does not provide what that written notice consists of other than that this “notice” will “normally” [be] by publication in THE SOJOURNER,” but does not other-wise state what “written notice” consists of, be amended to provide that such “written notice” may include email or postal mail; and that the notice can merely refer the recipient to the Order’s website on which the proposed amendment will have been posted; and also specifi cally provide that publication of such amendments in THE SOJOURNER may be by this mode, that is, merely providing a synopsis of the pro-posed amendments (which is what currently is occurring and this amendment merely validates the current action of doing so).

Proposed Changes to National Regula-tions 1.4 through 7.1:

And Be It Further Resolved that the fol-lowing National Regulations be amended as hereinafter proposed:

1. NR 1.4 be amended to make more uniform the provisions addressing our in-signia, medals, neckbands, requirements of National Offi cers in transferring their title bars of offi ce upon installation, and other provisions, while deleting duplication of some of the provisions in the present NR 1.4 as follows:

a. Paragraph 1: to make uniform refer-ences to the medals and neckbands of the

Order and adds the omitted reference to the National Heroes of ‘76 Neckbands.

b. Paragraph 2. a.: to correct the identi-fi ed reference, not (2), but (a).

c. Paragraph 2.b.: to clear up and make consistent what the medal of a National Line Offi cer and National Heroes Offi cer is and the manner in which it is to be worn on a neckband or ribbon. It also deletes duplica-tive information about the handling of the medals during installation by the installation offi cers that is more correctly addressed later in the NR.

d. Paragraphs 2.c. thru g.: to address and correct uniformity issues in describing the various “medals” worn or presented.

e. Paragraph 3.: to create uniformity in the description and wearing of neckbands and title bars by National Line and Heroes Offi cers, while deleting provisions relating to the turning over of their neckbands and title bars to their successors and/or the installing offi cers, which is duplicitous and is more correctly addressed later in the NR when specifi cally treating Offi cer Installation procedures.

f. Paragraph 4.: to properly address the handling and treatment of title bars of National Offi cers upon installation, while consolidating all of the “installation lan-guage” relative to title bars of offi ce that was deleted earlier from paragraphs 2 and 3 of the current NR 1.4.

g. Paragraph 10.: to more correctly state the rules governing the wearing NSI and Heroes insignia and accoutrements.

h. Paragraph 11.: to clear up and make more specifi c that National HQ provides all of the National Offi cers’ medals and title bars.

2. NR 3.1 be amended to more clearly address membership criteria, while clarify-ing, consolidating and/or deleting some membership categories and terms that are unclear or are duplicitous as follows:

a. Paragraph 2.: to restate in subpara-graph a.(1) what is also stated in Article 3.1.a. and to specifi cally defi ne in subpara-graphs (A) and (B) who may specifi cally qualify to be a member of the Order.

b. Paragraph 2.b.: to restate what is provided in Article 3.1.1 of the By-Laws that the National President, not the NST, shall decide questions relating to membership eligibility.

c. Paragraph 2.c.: to codify as part of this NR the defi nition of Senior Non-Com-missioned Offi cer that is currently found in the Staff Directory and is also found in Admin Order 3-15 of 22 Oct 2014 (which, of course, is part of our membership criteria).

d. Paragraph 2.d.: to specifi cally defi ne who qualifi es as an Active Member in the NRs rather than in the By-Laws.


e. Paragraph 2.e.: to specifi cally defi ne who can qualify to be an Honorary Member while also specifi cally set forth what rights and privileges that membership confers, as well as more specifi cally defi nes the 15% limitation of such Honorary Memberships in a Chapter, placing all of these provisions in the NRs rather than in the By-Laws.

f. Paragraph 3.: to redefi ne the mem-bership categories currently in use, delete categories that are not in use, while renam-ing the current MMIP to more correctly identify it as an In-Memorium MIP (IMMIP). This proposed amendment also combines Dual and Multiple Memberships since Dual memberships are but a specie of a Multiple Membership, while clarifying just who can be a Multiple Member as opposed to one being a MIP in multiple Chapters.

g. Paragraph 5.: to require the National President, if he waives the requirement for a candidate to be obligated as required by By-Laws Article 17.1.2, to note his waiver in writing on the candidate’s application form for the waiver to be applicable.

h. Paragraph 6.: Each subparagraph of Paragraph 6. basically rewords the lan-guage that was there, but puts it in a more cohesive and readable form. However, the fi nal sentence of subparagraph a. adds new language which prohibits the transfer of a MIP membership if the member seeking to transfer it to another Chapter did not pur-chase the MIP. Thus, the MIP of a member whose MIP was purchased by the Chapter or to which the Chapter contributed part of the purchase price stays with Chapter in which MIP was originally purchased.

i. Paragraph 7.b.: to more specifi cally identify the membership information that a relocating member’s Chapter should make available to the Chapter(s) in the relocating member’s new area.

i. Paragraph 8.: to restate more specifi -cally the responsibility of a Chapter Secre-tary related to Membership cards, attempt-ing to make his responsibilities regarding them more specifi c.

i. Paragraph 9.: to reword with more specifi city the reasons for the termination of a member’s membership. Subparagraph b., however, is a substantive addition and provides for a terminated member’s MIP to remain with the terminated member’s Chapter rather than be transferred to HQ, regardless of the reason for that member’s termination. Thus, the terminated member’s MIP dividends will continue to be paid by HQ to the Chapter even though the terminated member is not thereafter reported as a member of that Chapter.

3. NR 4.3 be amended to reword the NR’s various paragraphs to be easier to follow and to be more specifi c, but none

of the recommended changes propose to make any substantive changes.

4. NR 6.1 be amended to reword the NR’s various paragraphs to be easier to follow and to be more specifi c, but none of the recommended changes propose to make any substantive changes.

5. NR 6.2 be amended to reformat, as well as reword, the NR’s various paragraphs to be easier to follow and to be more spe-cifi c and to make the following substantive changes to this NR:

a. First, to add several NRs as “Refer-ences” that are individually referred to as governing NRs in later paragraphs and are now proposed to be more correctly referred to by the subparagraph letter under the cap-tion “Reference.”

b. Second, as to the duties of the NST, amends paragraph 6. by reorganizing his duties such that they are more succinctly captioned under the person(s) to whom he is responsible and must report, i.e., the Trustees, the National Commander, and the National President; it also will not provide that the NST must be an Active Member of the Order.

c. Third, amends paragraph 8. to pro-vide that the National Judge Advocate must be an attorney licensed to practice by a state Supreme Court.

d. Fourth, provides in paragraph 9. that if a licensed physician is not available to serve as National Surgeon, a Licensed Veterinarian, Nurse Practitioner or a RN may be elected to serve.

6. NR 7.1 be amended to reword the NR’s various paragraphs to be easier to follow and to be more specifi c. None of the recommended changes propose to make any substantive changes other than to paragraph 2.a.(4), which proposes a change to correspond with the suggested change to By-Laws Art. 7.2.4 noted above, i.e., “Elected and/or Appointed Chapter Delegates,” and changing paragraph 2.a.(4)(c) similarly.

2015-3 RESOLUTION

RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING GOVERNANCE OF THE SPIRIT OF

AMERICA EDUCATION FOUNDATIONWhereas: The Spirit of America Edu-

cation Foundation (SAEF) is a Virginia corporation established exclusively for edu-cational and charitable purposes within the meaning of and subject to the restrictions set forth in Section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.. and,

Whereas: Contributions to SAEF are de-ductible under section 170 of the code. and,

Whereas: The SAEF is classifi ed as a public charity and is qualifi ed to receive tax deductible bequests, devices, transfers or gifts under section 2055, 2105 or 2522 of the code. and,

Whereas: The Internal Revenue Ser-vice believes that a well-governed charity is more likely to comply with the tax laws, safeguard charitable assets, and serve charitable interests than one with poor or lax governance. and,

Whereas: While the tax law generally does not mandate particular management structures, operational policies, or admin-istrative practices, it is important that each charity be thoughtful about the governance practices that are most appropriate for that charity in assuring sound operations and compliance with the tax law. now,

Therefore Be It Resolved that: The National By-Laws, C12, 19 January 2008 be amended to include under ARTICLE 8, National Committees/Bodies:

8.1.6 Spirit of America Education Foun-dation

And, Be It Further Resolved that: Na-tional Regulation, C7, 22 June 2012, 8.1.1, National Trustees, paragraph 3 FUNC-TIONS be amended to read:

“…..The Trustees also serve as Directors of the Spirit of America Education Founda-tion. The Directors, will elect a Chairman, vice chairman, and Secretary/Treasurer. The National Secretary-Treasurer will serve as the Asst Secretary/Treasurer.”

And, Be It Further Resolved that: Na-tional Regulation, 8.1.1 National Trustees, C7, 22 June 2012, be amended by adding sub-paragraph h, under Paragraph 4 DU-TIES: to read.

h. Spirit of America Education Foun-dation: The membership of the Board of Directors shall consist of the nine National Trustees of National Sojourners, Inc. The Directors shall elect annually from their own number a Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Secretary. The National Secretary/Trea-surer shall serve (ex-offi cio) as Treasurer.

And, Be It Further Resolved that: The National Regulations be amended by add-ing National Regulation 8.1.6.

NATIONAL REGULATION 8.1.6 Subject: Spirit of America Education

Foundation (SAEF)Reference: (a.) National By-Laws, AR-

TICLE 8.1.6 (b). National By-Laws ARTICLE 20 (b) National Regulation, 8.1.1.31. PURPOSE: To prescribe the duties,

responsibilities and operation of The Spirit of America Education Foundation (SAEF).

A. Legal Status. The SAEF is a Virginia corporation established exclusively for edu-cational and charitable purposes within the


meaning of and subject to the restrictions set forth in Section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.. Contributions to SAEF are deductible under section 170 of the code. The SAEF is classifi ed as a public charity and is qualifi ed to receive tax deductible bequests, devices, transfers or gifts under section 2055, 2105 or 2522 of the code.

B. Programs. The SAEF is intended to fi nancially support or assist in funding educational and charitable programs that may, from time to time, be established and prescribed in the, National Regulations, National Circulars or Offi cial Pamphlets of National Sojourners, Inc.

2. BACKGROUND: The SAEF was incor-porated on May 20, 2011, in the Common-wealth of Virginia by the State Corporation Commission authorizing it to transact its business. The Internal Revenue Service by letter April 23, 2014 granted SAEF tax exempt status under section 501(c) (3) as a public charity effective May 20, 2011.

3. ORGANIZATION: SAEF shall be com-posed of a Board of Directors (Directors) and Foundation Offi cers (Offi cers).

A. Directors: The membership of the Board of Directors shall consist of the nine National Trustees of National Sojourners, Inc. The National President and National Secretary/Treasurer (NST) of National Sojourners, Inc. are designated as ex-offi cio members (non-voting) of the Board of Directors.

B. Offi cers: The Directors shall elect an-nually from their own number a Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Secretary. The National Sojourners, Inc., National Secretary/Trea-surer shall serve (ex-offi cio) as Treasurer.

(1) Chairman: The Chairman shall be the chief executive offi cer and shall preside over all meetings of the Board of Directors. He shall brief the National Convention on the fi nancial status of the foundation.

(2) Vice Chairman: The Vice Chairman shall assist the chairman and in his absence assumes his duties as chairman.

(3) Secretary: The Secretary shall give notice of all meetings of the Board of Directors; shall have authority to certify any records, or copy of records, as the of-fi cial records of the foundation; and, shall maintain the minutes of the Board of Direc-tors. The NST will serve as the Assistant Secretary and shall have authority to certify any records, or copy of records, as the offi cial records of the foundation; and for the purpose of processing the administra-tive requirements of the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the United States Internal Revenue Service.

(4) Treasurer: The Treasurer shall be re-sponsible for the fi nancial affairs of the foun-

dation as directed and authorized by the Board of Directors and shall make reports of Foundation fi nances as required, but no less often than at the Mid-Winter Meeting and the Annual National Convention.

C. Committees: To the extent permit-ted by law, the Board of Directors may appoint from its members a committee or committees, temporary or permanent, and designate the duties, powers, and authority of such committee.

D. Confl ict of Interest: The assets and income of the SAEF shall not be distrib-uted to, or benefi t the Directors or Offi cers of the Foundation, but shall only be used to promote the purpose describe herein. Nothing contained herein, however, shall be deemed to prohibit payment of rea-sonable compensation to employees and independent contractors for services pro-vided for the benefi t of the foundation. The Foundation shall not conduct any activities not permitted by an organization exempt from federal income tax. The foundation shall not endorse, contribute to, work for, or otherwise support or oppose a candidate for public offi ce.

(1) Policy: With the respect to any pro-posed fi nancial transaction, every Director or employee responsible for such transac-tions must avoid any confl ict of interest. In order to avoid any confl ict of interest, the ex-istence of such confl ict must be disclosed to the other directors present and the person must, after discussion of the transaction, re-move himself from the meeting and refrain from voting on the transaction in question.

(2) Annual disclosure: At the Annual National Convention, each director must disclose to the SAFE Secretary any fi nan-cial interest that could give the appearance of a confl ict. Annually, the Secretary shall affi rm in writing to the Foundation Chairman that all disclosures have been made and he shall also disclose any fi nancial interest that could create the perception of a confl ict of interest.

4. MEETINGS: The Board of Directors shall meet three times a year. The fi rst meeting is held after the regular election at the Annual National Convention for the purpose of electing a chairman, vice chair-man and secretary. The Board of Directors shall meet in business session at the Mid-Winter Meeting of National Offi cers and in June prior to the opening of the Annual National Convention. The Board may meet in special session any other time called by the chairman or as requested by a majority of directors for necessary business.

A. Notice: Written or electronic notice of all meetings shall be provided at least ten days prior or as otherwise required by law. The notice shall state the date, place

and time of the meeting, and if for a special meeting, the purpose of the meeting. Such notice shall be mailed , by United States Postal Service or electronically transmitted to all Directors at the postal or email address shown on the offi cer data sheet or current National Sojourners Staff Directory.

B. Quorum: Five or more Directors constitute a quorum. In the determination of a quorum, the disclosure of a confl ict of interest by an Offi cer or Director shall not decrease the number of Directors present. An excused Director, who has previously assigned his proxy, shall not be counted toward a quorum but shall be considered in the vote count.

C. Procedures: All meetings shall be conducted according to a standard parliamentary procedure. The Board shall seek to make decisions through the con-sensus of the Board. If consensus cannot be reached in a reasonable period of time, the Chairman may table the decision until the next meeting or ask that a decision be made. The vote of a majority of the Direc-tors present at a properly called meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Board of Directors, unless the vote of a greater number is required by law, or by the National By-Laws, or by this regula-tion, for a particular motion. The Board shall keep written minutes of its proceedings in its permanent records.

(1) Proxy: Members not present, but wishing to vote, may au-thorize another Director to hold their proxy. Authorization is granted by written letter or electronic message submitted before or at the meeting. There is no limit to the number of proxies an individual Director can be authorized to hold. Proxies are not transfer-able. The designated Director cannot give the proxy to another director.

(2) In addition to the National President (ex-officio ) and the National Secretary/ Treasurer (ex-offi cio), other non-voting participants in meetings of the SAEF may normally include the National President-Elect, National Vice-Presidents and the Judge Advocate, all of whom may present or discuss any matter of the SAEF concerns. Any other member of National Sojourners may request permission to participate in any portion of the meeting as he may have pertinent interest.

D. Informal Action: Any action required to be taken at a meeting of the Board of Directors, or any action that may be taken at a meeting of a committee of directors may be taken without a meeting if a consent in writing setting forth the ac-tion to be taken, is signed by seven of the Board of Directors or all of the members of a committee, as the case may be. Reply


by electronic mail shall be considered as signed. All other requirements of Section 4 remain the same.

5. CONTRACTS, CHECKS, DEPOSITS AND FUNDS:

A. Contracts. The Board of Direc-tors may authorize any offi cer or offi cers, agent or agents of the Foundation, in addition to the offi cers so authorized by these regulations, to enter in any contact or execute any instrument in the name of and on behalf of the SAEF. Such authority may be general or confi ned to specifi c interest.

B. Checks or Drafts. All checks, drafts or orders for the payment of money, notes, or other evidence of indebtedness issued in the name of the Foundation shall be signed by the Treasurer as trusted agent of the Foundation.

C. Deposits. All funds of the Foundation shall be deposited from time to time to the credit of the Foundation in such banks, trust companies, or other deposito-ries as the Board or its trusted agent may select.

D. Gifts. The Board of Directors may accept, on behalf of the Foundation, any contribution, gift, bequest, or device for the general purpose of, or for any specifi c purpose of the Foundation. To the extent consistent with Sections 501 (c)(3) and 170 (c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and considering the general and specifi c purposes of the Foundation, the SAEF shall apply such contributions, gifts, bequests, or device in accordance with the wishes of the donor, provided that such wishes are made known at the time that the contribution is made.

6. CORPORATE SEAL. EXECUTION OF INSTRUMENTS: The Foundation shall not have a corporate seal. All instruments that are executed on behalf of the SAEF which are acknowledge and which affect an inter-est in real estate, shall be executed by the chairman and the Treasurer. All other instru-ments executed by the Foundation may be executed by the Treasurer. Notwithstanding the proceeding provisions of this section, any written instrument may be executed by any offi cer or offi cers, agent or agents that are specifi cally designated by a resolution of the Board of Directors.

7. ADOPTION OF AND AMENDMENT TO REGULATION: The adoption of, or amendment to, this regulations requires no fewer than seven affi rmative votes of the SAEF Board of Directors and must be ratifi ed in accordance with ARTICLE 20 of the National Sojourners, Inc Bylaws.

8. INDEMNIFICATON: The SAEF, to the extent legally permissible, indemnifi es each person who may serve or who has served at any time as an Offi cer, Director,

or employee of the Foundation against all expenses and liabilities, including, without limitation, counsel fees, judgments, fi nes, excise taxes, penalties and settlement pay-ments, reasonably incurred by or imposed upon such person in connection with any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding in which he may become involved by reason of his service in such capacity; provided that no indemnifica-tion shall be provided for any such person with respect to any matter as to which he shall have been fi nally adjudicated in any proceeding not to have acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that such action was in the best interests of the Foundation; and further provided that any compromise or settlement payment shall be approved by a majority vote of a quorum of Direc-tors who are not at that time parties to the proceeding.

9. REPORTS: A. The Chairman shall render a

report annually to the Board of Directors, and at such other times as he may elect or the Directors direct, of the fi nancial and operational status of the Foundation.

B. The Chairman shall render a report annually to the National Convention of National Sojourners, Inc. upon the call of the National President.

C. Fiscal Year: The fi scal year of the SAEF shall begin the fi rst day of July and end the thirtieth day of June next fol-lowing.

D. Audits: The Chairman of the SAEF shall cause an audit to be made of Foundation Funds and transactions during the second quarter of each fi scal year for the fi scal year preceding. The report of such audit shall be presented to the Board of Directors for approval and any further action. A special audit may be directed by the Chairman or a majority of the Board of Directors at any time. A copy of all audit reports will be forwarded to the President, President-Elect and Vice Presidents of National Sojourners, Incorporated.

10. DISSOLUTION: The Spirit of America Education Foundation may be dissolved only with the authorization of its Board of Directors given at a special meeting called for that purpose and with the subsequent approval of seven of the members of the Board. In the event of liquidation, dissolu-tion, or termination of theSAEF, whether voluntary, involuntary, or by operation of law, all monies, properties or other assets shall be applied and distributed as follows:

A. All liabilities and obligations shall be paid, satisfi ed and discharged, or adequate provision shall be made therefore.

B. Assets not held upon a condi-tion requiring return, transfer, or convey-

ance to any other organization or individual shall be distributed, transferred, or con-veyed in trust or otherwise to charitable and educational organizations, organized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, of a similar or like nature to SAEF, as determined by the Board of Directors.

11. COMPATIBILITY: Any National Regulation affected by this regulation and not specifi cally amended or referenced by this regulation shall be read or interpreted in conformity with this change and shall be administratively changed as required.

RESOLUTION 2015- 4

DALLAS L. KNOLL BULLETIN/NEWS-LETTER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Purpose: To clarify the number and type of awards to be presented each year

BE IT RESOLVED that National Regula-tion 9.1.2 change 3 dated 22 June 2012 be modifi ed by changing paragraph 5. a. and c. to read (new verbiage is in Bold font):

5. AWARDS: a. Only One award may be made an-

nually for the best bulletin and one for the best newsletter.

b. The Newsletter Award shall consist of a suitably engraved plaque for the recipient and the name of the recipient and his Chap-ter will be engraved on a plaque maintained in National Headquarters.

c. The Bulletin Award shall be a suitable certifi cate for the recipient and the name of the Chapter and a plaque Certifi cate main-tained in National Headquarters identifying the same.

CONFERENCES

The 95th Annual Convention will be held at Marriott in Omaha Nebraska 1-6 June 2015.

ENCAMPMENTS

A Florida Area Encampment will be held March 13 thru March 14 2015. POC Ray Davis, [email protected] or Phone 352-332-7784.

The South Central Area Conference & Encampment will be held April 10 thru April 11 2015 at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Austin, Texas. POC Jim Baker, [email protected] or Phone (512) 515-5632.

GLACE will be held May 1 thru May 2 at the Holiday Inn Gateway in Flint MI. POC Armand Cote, [email protected] or Phone (810) 796-2002

CONFERENCES


NEW MEMBER

SGT David Bate, #512Sponsor: Mark H. Galloway

MSgt Dennis H. Brydl, #19, MIPSponsor: Ronald D. Stites

Mr. Douglas Caudle, #329, MIPSponsor: Ronald D. Sortino

MSgt Freddie L. Clopton, Jr., #19, MIPSponsor: Russell W. Hobson

TSgt Ozell Covington, Jr., #378Sponsor: Unknown

1st Lt Bernard L. Flynn, Jr., #503Sponsor: Richard T. Nelson

PO1 Jim Gazay, #512Sponsor: Mark H. Galloway

SGT David A. Gessert, #56Sponsor: William L. Greene

SSgt Wayne E. Gunter, #540, MIPSponsor: Robert W. Pelfrey

SGT Eugene Heige, #76, MIPSponsor: E. Thomas Kuhn

SP-5 Bryan L. Hill, #76, MIPSponsor: Paul J. Fulton

SCPO James Hogue, #512Sponsor: Mark H. Galloway

A2C James M. Hursey, #540, MIPSponsor: Robert W. Pelfrey

Mr. Richard N. Lewis, #5, MIPSponsor: Gary D. Skillern

GYSGT Fritz M. Lowe, #329Sponsor: Denny Norris

CDR Richard A. Mapes, #27, MIPSponsor: Robert Roth

SCPO Wenceslao Mariano, #45Sponsor: Christopher C. Gunn

CPO Alexis V. Mendoza, #266Sponsor: Steve Fowler

Mr. Joseph E. Murphy, #76, MIPSponsor: Jack Heinze

Mr. Larry Noe, #512Sponsor: Mark H. Galloway

Mr. Daniel H. Oates, #421Sponsor: Robert A. Jacob

MSGT Jesse R. Pertee, #23Sponsor: Kevin Stanley

Mr. James H. Purser, #540, MIPSponsor: Roy C. Etherton

SP5 Darrell Robinson, #250Sponsor: James Prather

CAPT Jordan W. Settle, #76, MIPSponsor: Michael M. Wertz

SMSgt Duane L. Smith, #19, MIPSponsor: Hugh Nehls

MCPO Joseph H. Wright, #435, MIPSponsor: Charles R. Cooper

CMSgt Samuel R. Young, #27, MIPSponsor: Irv Dietscher

NEW MIP

19142 CAPT Clair W. Clark, II, #30619143 Maj Jimmy P. Smith, Jr., #50219144 Mr. John Kriesel, #25

19145 LTC Keith H. Kingston, #27519146 MSgt Dennis H. Brydl, #1919147 SMSgt Duane L. Smith, #1919148 LTC David W. Alderfer, #99719149 SCPO Daniel F. Macaraeg, #4519150 MCPO Joseph H. Wright, #43519151 MSgt Freddie L. Clopton, Jr., #1919152 CAPT Jordan W. Settle, #7619153 Mr. Joseph E. Murphy, #7619154 SGT Eugene Heige, #7619155 SP-5 Bryan L. Hill, #7619156 Mr. Douglas L. Caudle, #32919157 CPL Billy J. Holder, Jr., #16619158 Mr. Richard N. Lewis, #519159 CMSgt Samuel R. Young, #2719160 CDR Richard A. Mapes, #2719161 MCPO Mamerto T. Eclarinal, #4519162 Lt Col William H. Haynes, #26519163 LCDR James F. Helt, #50719164 CPL Richard Wood, #99719165 SSgt Wayne E. Gunter, #54019166 A2C James M. Hursey, #54019167 Mr. James H. Purser, #54019168 CPT David A. Roach, #53019169 GYSgt Alan L. Bergstrom, #24319170 MCPO Arthur F. Polsey, #1719171 Mr. Joseph C. Harrison, #54019172 Lt Col William H. Haynes, #7619173 CPO Paul W. Pennybacker, #31019174 SGT Ronnie P. Richards, #18419175 BG E. Thomas Kuhn, #4219176 LtCol Ronald D. R. Sortino, #50719177 LtCol Ronald D. R. Sortino, #548

SEM

3-6-5 CLUB

David W. Alderfer, #997Robert Allen, #88Douglas Clabaugh, #88Wayne Gunter, #540Joseph Harrison, #540Estel W. Hays, #45James Hursey, #540James E. Jensen, #17Robert E. Kline, #273Joseph E. Leininger, #273James D. Odom, #184Paul W. Pennybacker, #310James Purser, #540Henry L. Spomer, #273Ronald Stites, #88Paul M. Weathers, #273Derek G. Webb, #97Kenneth W. Wical, #97

3-6-5 STREAMER

North Carolina Chapter #97

MIDWINTER DONATIONS

We received donations totaling $6,791.00 from the Mid-Winter Meeting.

SEM DONATIONS

In Honor of Randolph GeckMarilyn & Barry Scheiner

In Memory of Stewart W. MinerBill & Patti Turner

TAPS

LTC Charles L. Blumenstein, #503, MIPDOD: 1/21/1999

Mr. Delbert R. Brooks, #353, MIPDOD: 11/28/2014

TSGT Morris L. Broussard, #502DOD: 2/17/2015

Lt John C. Butterfi eld, #439, MIPDOD: 10/12/2014

COL Harold G. Cameron, #39, MIPDOD: 11/3/2013

Mr. John E. Christensen, #5, MIPDOD: 1/31/2015

COL George W. Davidson, #999, MIPDOD: 12/24/2014

Mr. James R. Dunlap, #155, MIPDOD: 12/8/2014

CPT Joe G. Elles, #134DOD: 10/29/2014

COL James L. Fowler, #445, MIPDOD: 1/20/2015

Mr. Charles W. Francis, #541, MIPDOD: 1/15/2015

Lt Col Carl G. Fugler, #37, MIPDOD: 2/6/2015

TSGT Walter H. Hale, #128, MIPDOD: 12/26/2014

2LT Wallace R. Henwood, #413, MIPDOD: 1/13/2015

CAPT Robert W. Klementz, #364, MIPDOD: 1/13/2015

Capt Harvey Kirk, #243, MIPDOD: 12/22/2014

LTC J. P. Mabry, #8DOD: 12/29/2014

Mr. Bernard J. Magary, #435, MIPDOD: 12/22/2014

Lt Col Robert C. Martin, #503, MIPDOD: 11/11/2014

Col William D. Murchie, #541, MIPDOD: 7/8/2013

LtCol James D. Richards, #541DOD: 5/5/2012

Mr. Willis H. Rogers, #421DOD: 12/14/2014

Mr. Leonard G. Shurtleff, #537DOD: 1/22/2015

Mr. Christian L. Siebert, Jr., #76DOD: 1/16/2015

Maj William R. Simmons, #364, MIPDOD: 1/15/2015

Mr. Rex N. Sumter, #514, MIPDOD: 12/22/2014

Lt Col Gail F. Vogel, #421, MIPDOD: 8/19/2014


CPO John R. Webb, #541DOD: 9/28/2014

SGT Steve R. Wiggington, #310, MIPDOD: 2/11/2015

Mr. Bill R. Wood, #534DOD: 12/10/2014

LT Robert H. Wright, #121, MIPDOD: 12/2/2014

CAMP NEWS

POOR RICHARD CAMP (Benjamin Franklin #16)

Eberz, Winton, Hewitt with New Hero Scott Mele and Len Bezar

Camp Charter with Len Bezar and Scott Mele

ALAMO CAMP (Ft. Sam Houston #17). A raw recruit by the name of Daniel Owczarzak, was offi cially made a Hero on 29 January 2015. The members reported that there was a shadowy unshaven fi gure lurking around the area with a bushy mustache, but they could not determine what it was. They could not determine if it was big foot or a shaggy bear looking for food. It was fi nally determined that the subject was trying to enter the camp. Whoever it was, made many attempts at gaining admission to the camp, and we became concerned. We fi nally cornered it and as it turned out it was the individual named above. He was placed in the guardhouse await-ing interrogation. He was shabbily dressed, but did have a good pair of boots and had been wounded and was using a crutch. He barely made it into the camp to be interrogated. Due to his current condition, looking very skinny, he was given a plate of beans, a slice of bread and a cup of water. He was placed before the Commander, who proceeded to examine him to see what his intentions were. He initially could not answer the Commanders questions but after many attempts seemed to compose himself to come up with some of the answers. This resulted in him having to cross the Big “D” numerous times and fi nally, due to the temperature of the water, was able to answer his interrogators. After giving his heroic deed and questions it required

several votes to confi rm his heroic deed. Bro. Dan is a strong Mason involved in the various Masonic Organizations in the San Antonio Area. He has played major parts in the Grand Lodge of Texas and is deeply involved with his local Masonic Lodge. He will be an important addi-tion to our camp.

JOHN J. PERSHING CAMP (Pasadena #265). A truly representative number of splen-didly clad, awe-inspiring continental soldiers were mustered at a fortifi ed bivouac during a lull in the combat operations against the British forces. Our keen-eyed sentinels were Bob Reyn-olds Daniel Hood, and Bruce Ivie. The usual calmness and serenity, which had long prevailed throughout the camp was abruptly broken when guards in the northwest corner of the camp, Har-vey Lyman and Jeremy Chongco, sounded the alarm signaling that they had caught an intruder in the act of trying to illegally gain entrance through the guard lines. After apprehension this raw, ragged, recruit initially displayed all the characteristics of a dull, dumb, dense, dolt. After the strictest of examinations and an exten-sive questioning session by Simon McIlroy and

Bernie Harris it was deter-mined that he was, indeed, relatively harmless. Then, after several trips into The Delaware he was able to answer all questions put to him. It was determined that he was Marty Mihal who is a Master Mason and a Sojourner. He was unanimously elected to membership in our camp. Pictured: Jeremy Chongco at Old Fort Hood.

ANDREW JACKSON CAMP (Northeast Florida #435). On February 7, 2015, we held a bivouac in Jacksonville, Florida and initiated two new Bros. Christopher C. Lanham, Jr., and James Billberry were tried, initiated and received into the camp.

L-r: Seated: Bros. James Billberry and Chris-topher C. Lanham, Jr. First row: Bros. Corbin P. Elliott, PP, PC; Thomas A. Olsen, 3rd VP, Sr. Lt.; Robert Shellenberger, PP, PC; C. Robert Cooper, PP, PC; Wiley Hart, 2nd VP, Adj.; Detlev “Gunny” Wilkerson, PP, Cdr.; Kolen Sawyer, Pres., Asst. COS; Jimmy Dorsey, Chap; and Tom Sorensen, P. Treasurer, PC. Back row: Gilbert E. Porter, Marshal; Leland E. Stanford, III, PP, PC; Dwight Shuman, 1st VP, Cdr. of Guard; and John

Block, Bennington Flag lecturer in the Degree. Present and taking part in the initiation, but not pictured were Lowell D. Crane, PP, PC; and Frank B. Doyle, who had to leave right after the Degree.

GEORGIA HUSSARS CAMP (Hunter #502). We were honored again this year to be asked by the Savannah Sports Council to present the colors at the 2015 Savannah Hockey Classic at the civic center on 16 & 17 January.

L-r: Colors were presented by Bros. Geoge Vail, PC; Bruce McNall, PC; Charles Deloe, Adj.; James Hood, PC.

SAMUEL H. PARSONS CAMP (Anson Jones #507). On 3 January Commander Perie “Rick” R. Pitts opened a bivouac with camp member Bro. National President Merlen Howe fi lling in as Chief of Staff and Bro. National 1st VP James Baker performing his duty as Adju-tant. Shortly thereafter Ron Mottern, well-armed but in ragged tattered clothing caused a distur-bance in the picket line. While being disarmed and escorted to the guard house Ron claimed he was a Master Mason and National Sojourner in good standing. Subsequent to investigation by Commander Pitts, Ron was accepted as a Recruit. Then after several trips thru the “D” the bivouac determined he was indeed a Patriotic Hero and welcomed Ron as the camp’s newest Hero of 76.

JACK JOUETT CAMP (James Monroe #549). We made another great contribution to the Marines Toys for Tots program in Charlot-tesville, Virginia. We thank the involvement of Widow’s Sons Lodge, No 60, Lee Lodge No 209 the Waynesboro Royal Arch Chapter, Millstone of Ivy Preschool and Day Care in Ivy, Virginia and a number of dedicated members for their efforts in making this years contribution of 7 boxes of toys and $1340.00 in donations.


95TH ANNUAL NATIONAL CONVENTIONOMAHA MARRIOTT HOTEL

10220 REGENCY CIRCLE, OMAHA, NE 68114 31 MAY – 6 JUN 2015

LAST NAME: FIRST NAME: INITIAL: SUFFIX: NICKNAME: RANK: SVC:

LADY’S NAME (IF ATTENDING): ADDRESS: CITY: STATE: ZIP: PHONE

E-MAIL: CHAPTER NAME: CHAPTER NO.: ________CHAPTER OFFICE________________________

NOTE: PLEASE CHECK APPROPRIATE BOXES AND FILL IN SPECIFICS BELOW.

PNP PNC Emeritus

LOH National Committee Chair Past Master

Grand DameCamp Follower Become Camp Follower

First Time ANC Attendee Number ANC attended Number MWM attended

National Office: National Heroes of ’76 Office:

NATIONAL COMMITTEES: (CHAIRMAN) (2) (3)

GRAND LODGE OFFICE: HEAD OF OTHER BODIES:

GUESTS ATTENDING: FIRST NAME LAST NAME FIRST NAME LAST NAME

(1) ____________________ ________________________________ (2) ____________________ ________________________________

Transportation Mode Arrival Date: ______________ ETA: ______________ (AM PM )

POV Air Rail

Air/Rail, Fill in Details Below

Arrive Date: Airport/Station Time: ________ (AM PM ) Air Carrier: __________ FLT No

Depart Date: Airport/Station Time: ________ (AM PM ) Air Carrier: __________ FLT No

Staying at the Omaha Marriott? Check In Date: Check Out Date:

FOR TRANSPORTATION: CONTACT AJ JOHNSON AT (402) 679-6141 TO CONTACT: OMAHA MARRIOTT HOTEL, (402) 399.9000; (866) 460-7456

GROUP RATES: MENTION “NSC NATIONAL SOJOURNERS CONFERENCE” – ROOMS $105.00 + TAX (Please Make Reservation in Name of Sojourner)PRICE QTY

REGISTRATION FEE (SOJOURNER MEMBERS ONLY) ** $35.00 X 1 = $ ________________ LATE REGISTRATION FEE (AFTER 15 MAY 2015) $15.00 X 1 = $ ________________ NOT STAYING AT THE MARRIOTT HOTEL $15.00 X = $ ________________ BREAKFAST WITH PRESIDENT TEDDY (TUESDAY) $15.00 X ____ = $ ________________ LUNCH-EXPEDITIONARY (TUESDAY) $20.00 X ____ = $ ________________ BREAKFAST –PAST MASTER’S (WEDNESDAY) $15.00 X ____ = $ ________________ LUNCH – DA NANG / SAIGON (WEDNESDAY) $20.00 X ____ = $ ________________ RECEPTION & BENNINGTON BANQUET (WEDNESDAY)

(Blackened flank STEAK with au Poivre sauce) $40.00 X ____ = $ ________________ (Pecan encrusted CHICKEN with bourbon onion) $40.00 X ____ = $ ________________

BREAKFAST –BARROW WHEELERS (THURSDAY) $15.00 X ____ = $ ________________ LADIES LUNCHEON (THURSDAY) $20.00 X ____ = $ ________________ MUSTANG LUNCHEON (THURSDAY) $20.00 X ____ = $ ________________ COLONIAL LADIES AT THE TABLE (THURSDAY EVE)

MEAT/VEGETABLE LASAGNA $45.00 X ____ = $ ________________ PORK $45.00 X ____ = $ ________________ BREAKFAST –AMERICANISM (FRIDAY) $15.00 X ____ = $ ________________ LUNCH–AWARDS (FRIDAY) $20.00 X ____ = $ ________________ RECEPTION & PRESIDENT’S BANQUET (FRIDAY)

(10 oz. Flat Iron STEAK with sautéed mushrooms) $40.00 X ____ = $ ________________ (SWORDFISH parmesan with piccata sauce) $40.00 X ____ = $ ________________

BREAKFAST –NATIONAL PRESIDENT’S (SATURDAY) $15.00 X ____ = $ ________________

** TOTAL (SOJOURNERS INCLUDES REGISTRATION FEE) = $ ________________

MAIL REGISTRATION FORM ALONG WITH CHECK MADE OUT TO: “NASOCOCO” BY 15 MAY 2015 TO:

JAMES F. BENSON, JR.NASOCOCO TREASURER

3253 CAMARILLO AVEOCEANSIDE, CA 92056-4339


NATIONAL SOJOURNERS, INC.95TH ANNUAL NATIONAL CONVENTION AGENDA

OMAHA MARRIOTT AT REGENCY CIRCLE, OMAHA, NE

WEDNESDAY 3 JUNE0700-0810 Past Masters’ Chapter breakfast 0815-1015 Committee of 33 1020-1110 National Heroes Line 1115-1155 National Heroes Line with PNCs 1200-1310 Saigon/DaNang Chapters lunch 1315-1355 Heroes encampment elections etc 1400-1555 Heroes Degree 1730-1825 National Commander’s reception 1830--- Bennington Banquet Camp Followers Degree

THURSDAY 4 JUNE0700-0810 Royal Order of Barrow Wheelers’ breakfast 0830-1125 Convention opens 1200-1325 Ladies Lunch 1200-1325 Mustang Chapter Lunch 1330-1425 “how to’s” for Chapter Line Offi cers 1430-1525 “how to’s” for Chapter Secretaries 1530-1610 Exemplifi cation of Building THE Flag 1615-1715 What to consider to host a MWM or ANC1830---- Colonial Ladies at the Table with Historical fl ags

FRIDAY 5 JUNE0700-0825 Americanism breakfast with artist Ray “Bubba” Sorensen II 0830-1130 Convention resumes 1140-1325 Awards lunch 1730-1825 President’s reception 1830--- President’s banquet

SATURDAY 6 JUNE0700-0825 President’s kick-off breakfast 0830-0845 opportunity to buy pins and coins0850-0915 Comm chairs & Vice Chairs with NSI Line 0920-0945 NPE with Area and Regional Representatives 1000- NSI line

MONDAY 1 JUNE0930-1025 NASOCOCO with hotel staff 1030-1155 National Line 1100-1700 Registration open 1300-1355 NASOCOCO Offi cers 1400-1455 NASOCOCO Board of Directors 1500-1655 National Trustees

TUESDAY 2 JUNE0700-0810 Breakfast and a Visit with President Teddy0800-1700 Registration and Retail sales open 0815-1015 CLMA Board of Directors 0815-1155 Nominating Committee 0815-0915 Americanism Committee 0920-0955 YLC sub set of Am Comm 0920-0955 JROTC/ROTC sub set of Am Comm. 0920-0955 Patriotism and Essay sub set of Am Comm 1000-1025 IT Committee 1000-1055 Membership Committee 1000-1055 Honors Awards Committee 1030-1055 Heroes Manual Committee 1100-1155 Education and Training Committee 1200-1315 Expeditionary Chapter lunch 1320-1655 Nominating Committee 1320-1425 National Secretary meet with Chapter Sec’s 1320-1425 Chapter Chartering & Revitalization Comm with Area and Regional Rep 1355-1445 First Timers briefi ng 1430-1525 Incentives and Awards Committee 1430-1455 Sojourner Ritual Committee 1500-1525 Publication Review Board 1500-1525 Gifts and Bequest Committee1530-1555 PNPs with NSI Line 1530-1655 Bridge of Light Committee1700-1745 Chaplain’s call 1800-1900 First Timers reception by invitation only

AND OTHER ADDITIONAL INFORMATION INCLUDING TOURS ARE AVAILABLE ON WWW.NATIONALSOJOURNERS.ORG UNDER

MEETING INFORMATION.


TO: Editor, THE SOJOURNER8301 East Boulevard DriveAlexandria, Virginia 22308-1399

NOTICE OF CHANGE OF ADDRESS MARCH - APRIL 2015

Please change my address TO:

Rank Name (Arm or Br.)

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National Sojourners, Inc.8301 East Boulevard DriveAlexandria, Virginia 22308-1399

Address Service Requested

Non-Profi t Org.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDRichmond, VAPermit #3022

NOTICE TO

LENDERS OF ITEMS

TO

THE FOUNDATION FOR THE COLLINGWOOD LIBRARY & MUSEUM

All persons, and organizations, that have placed items on loan to Collingwood are hereby notifi ed that Collingwood is liquidating all assets.

If you would like your loaned item returned to you, you must so notify Collingwood not later than March 25, 2015. Notifi ca-tion must be in writing by U.S. Mail postmarked by March 25, 2015 and addressed to:

Collingwood Library & Museum8301 East Boulevard DriveAlexandria, VA 22308

You must include:Owner’s InformationNameAddressPhoneEmailItem informationExact name of the item: (for example, Springfi eld Rifl e, percussion cap, model 1853)Description of the item: (for example, Dark stained wood stock, steel grey barrel)

All items must be removed by the lender at lender expense not later than 3:00 p.m. ET, April 30, 2015. Lender will be given dates and times when they may arrange to pick up their item by scheduled appointment. Items not removed by April 30, 2015 will become the property of The Foundation for the Collingwood Library & Museum.

proudly serving the cause of patriotism. … · 2 the sojourner march - april 2015 national line...

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