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Volume 55 Issue 2
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The Kansas Mason
Summer 2017
A Publication of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas
LEADING THE CRAFT FORWARD Grand Master & Area Deputy Grand Masters
Meet Hervey.
He is a Mason. He is a Liaison. He is a Connector.
As the Director of Development and Fraternal Relations at Kansas Masonic Home,
KMH
Vibrant living. Valued principles.
Interested in finding out more?
Contact Hervey at 316.269.7513 or by email at hwright@KMH.org.
Hervey Wright invests time and heart fostering relationships with Masons across Kansas—for the betterment of our fraternity and for all residents at Kansas Masonic Home. Hervey is most proud that he can make a difference in people's lives—many who are Masons or spouses of Masons. Through forging relationships, making connections, and sharing Kansas Masonic Home with Masons across the state, Hervey makes Kansas Masonic Home a better place to live while giving Masons an opportunity to have the lifestyle and care that they want, need, and deserve as they age.
Assisted Living | Memory Care | Long-Term Care Skilled Nursing | Rehabilitation 402 S. Martinson Street, Wichita, Kansas 67213 316.269.7500 kmh.org
FROM THE GRAND EAST B. Cole Presley, Grand Master of Masons 2017-2018
Clean Tools Don’t Get Used! When you consider that this year marks 300 years of organized Speculative Freemasonry, it should cause every Master Mason to pause just briefly and marvel at the many different obstacles we have encountered in that time. While we know 300 years is a mark for
panic. My Brothers, within the heart of your
by men of like character and recognized by
the United Grand Lodge of England and
Grand Lodge Officers there is no panic or
the public as serving our communities in a
not necessarily our history, it still is an
frustration. Instead there exists a passion for
manner that lives up to our principles. That
opportunity to consider what Kansas
our fraternity and motivation for success.
burden rests with each and every Lodge
Masonry has survived. The Civil War, the
Each of the almost 100 leaders, officers
individually across the state. It is up to all of
great Western Expansion, World War I,
and committeemen, assigned, appointed
us collectively as Kansas Masons to reverse
the Great Depression, World War II, four
or elected has not only proven themselves
the current trend by positively affecting our
more major conflicts and more social and
worthy leaders but has been trained and
own communities.
technological changes than can be counted.
prepared to help our Lodges find success.
So many fraternal organizations faded away
After all, our mission given to us by you is to
officers are simply pushing the problem down
to either irrelevancy or non-existence
encourage and support Freemasonry
the road, or desire to shrink from assuming
in that same time span and yet, we still
by assisting its constituent Lodges
our obligations as Grand Lodge Officers.
exist and we still thrive. It is only possible
to achieve success and prosperity
We stand ready to assist our Lodges and
because we have never departed from
as assets to their membership and
each of you in your local endeavors. In fact,
the basic principles we uphold within our
communities.
when you combine the many programs of
Please do not believe that I or the other
While much in terms of success might
the Grand Lodge and of the Kansas Masonic
rest with the Grand Lodge and even the
Foundation, we see a tool box that contains
Grand Master, the bulk or greatest share
everything we need as Kansas Masons.
will not face challenges. Currently we
of success must be realized by our Lodges
Every Grand Lodge line Officer this next
see a critical moment for our fraternity
across the State. Our governing system
year has been charged with taking a leading
with 17,000 members and falling, a fiscal
was wisely built on the principle that it is
role with one of these programs. They have
structure that is weak and unstainable
the Lodges and their Officers who hold
spent time since February getting educated
combined with outside competing interests
the keys to success. In every community
on their assigned programs and developing
have created an environment that might
across the state, Masonry is the premier
communication and coordination tools to
cause some to become frustrated or to
Fraternal Organization that is sought after
assist you in your endeavors.
landmarks and the heart of each and every Master Mason in Kansas. That is not to say we have not and
Kansas Masonic Foundation, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, Kansas 66614
SUMMER 2017 1
FROM THE GRAND EAST So just how full is that toolbox? We have a Grand Lodge Officer assigned as the hub manager for the Kansas
Masonic Scholarship Program, the Discovering Freemasonry Awareness Program, Cancer Screenings, the Kansas Lodge of Research, Kansas Masonic Entrepreneurship Challenge, the Master’s Achievement Award, Ritualist Certification, Masonic Education, K-State Pride Communities, the Essay Contest, Fulfilling our Obligation, Exemplary Teachers and Students Award, Kansas Masonic Military Affairs, the Trice Robison Award. Each and every one of these programs is designed to bring leadership development,
we are taking the message directly to every Kansas Mason through direct email campaigns. Each message will carry specific information
leadership, each and every one of our
about each of the previously mentioned
Lodges here in Kansas can once again be
programs along with tips on how best they
known as the premier fraternal order in
can be implemented or put to use for the
every town in this State. Over the next
benefit of your Lodge and Your Community.
several weeks, please take just a few minutes
Our goal is to see the participation rate
and read the emails related to our ever
in every program increase dramatically
growing tool box and see if just one of these
across the state. While these programs can
programs might not fit or work well for your
help viable Lodges remain strong, they are
Lodge and your community.
designed specifically to re-build our Lodges
From a personal perspective, the idea of
that are struggling. Our more specific goal
becoming the Grand Master of Kansas is
is to see Lodges that have never previously
not one that ever entered my mind until five
participated in programs before begin to
years ago when I was first asked to serve.
become that vibrant fraternal body their
I am humbled beyond description at the
communities used to know.
opportunity you have given me. Please know
At the same time that these programs are
that my hope and drive for success does not
fiscal assistance and public recognition to
being presented and re-launched statewide,
begin and end with the thought about a single
every single Lodge in our State. Sadly, we
your Council of Administration will continue
year or my personal legacy as Grand Master.
see that very few Lodges actually take part in
its hard work of executing the strategic
Rather, I feel more emboldened about being
any of these programs, and yet at the same
plan. This plan, again given to us by Kansas
a part of an outstanding team of leaders who
time, still look to the Grand East for that
Masons and not Grand Lodge Officers, is
are driven by the same desires for prosperity
magical answer when all that they needed
focused on addressing those hard-to-answer,
as I am. To those who have gone before me,
to do is open their mail, or share the mail
long-term questions that, if successful, will
I am most grateful for your endeavors to lead
with another member of their Lodge. The
see the Grand Lodge possess the ability to
our craft and I hope you are still willing to
recent survey has shown us that there exists
remain focused on our mission. I ask for your
stand with us as we push forward. To every
a definite communications gap between the
continued support as we push forward on all
Kansas Mason, my hope is that you re-ignite
Grand Lodge and Kansas Masons. To counter
of these great tasks at hand.
and re-discover that passion that led you to
this problem, we are taking the message
My Brothers, I do not think there is one
directly to every Kansas Mason through
of us who does not wholeheartedly believe
direct email campaigns.
that ours is a fraternity built on some of the
knock on the door in the first place and share that passion with someone else. My Brothers, we have some hard work to
most outstanding principles and landmarks
do, but I have no doubt we will be successful
will be sent out in phases to every Kansas
that the world has ever known. I also believe
in our endeavors. Success will no doubt come
Mason for whom we have an email address.
that with proper direction, motivation and
as long as we remain, always on the level.
These emails, at no cost I might add,
2 THE KANSAS MASON
www.kansasmason.org
The Kansas Mason Established 1963
The Kansas Mason is the official publication of the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Kansas, formally organized March 17, 1856. The Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas 320 SW 8th Avenue Topeka, Kansas, 66603-3912 The Kansas Mason (ISSN 2380-372X) is published quarterly (2/1; 5/1; 8/1; 11/1) by the Kansas Masonic Foundation, 2909 SW Maupin Lane,Topeka, KS 66614-5335 at the direction of the Council of Administration from the office of The Grand Lodge A.F.& A.M. of Kansas. Periodicals Postage Paid at Topeka, KS 66675. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Kansas Mason, 2909 SW Maupin Lane,Topeka, KS 66614.
SUBMIT ARTICLES: by email to editor@kansasmason.org or mail to KMF Editorial 2909 SW Maupin Lane Topeka, KS, 66614 All submissions may be in electronic format or hard copy and become the property of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE FEATURED ARTICLES FROM THE GRAND EAST 1
Clean Tools Don’t Get Used!
GRAND LODGE 6
2017 Annual Communication
161st Session is in the history books! 12
Grand Lodge Officers 2017-18
14
Awards From The Grand Lodge Of Kansas
16
NEWS From The Annual Communication
FEATURE ARTICLE 18
Talent, Commitment, Vision:
The incoming leadership of Area Deputy Grand Masters!
Photos may be submitted through Flickr at www.flickr.com/groups/kansasmason/ No compensation is allowed or intended for any articles, photographs, or other material submitted or published. Advertising Guidelines for The Kansas Mason can be found on the Grand Lodge website. NOTE: Permission to reprint material appearing in The Kansas Mason will be granted upon written request to the Grand Secretary from recognized Master Masons. Other written requests will be considered by the Council of Administration. When reprinted, articles should note “Reprinted with permission of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. (month and year)”. The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas, its officers or employees. 2014 by the MW Grand Lodge A.F.& A.M. of Kansas. All rights reserved. The Grand Lodge seal and the logos “Kansas Mason,” and “Kansas Freemasons/On The Level” are trademarks of the MW Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas, and all rights are reserved.
©
DEPARTMENTS 4 GRAND SECRETARY
28 MAKING A DIFFERENCE
23 LODGE OF RESEARCH
30 HOME WARMINGS
26 FROM THE ARCHIVES
32 EVENTS CALENDAR
If you have any questions that you would like addressed on Masonry, Grand Lodge, Kansas Masonic Foundation, Kansas Masonic Home, this publication or its articles, please send your questions to Editor@KansasMason.org or mail to Kansas Masonic Foundation,Attn. Kansas Mason Editor, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, Kansas 66614.
The Kansas Mason (ISSN 2380-372X) is published quarterly (2/1; 5/1; 8/1; 11/1) by the Kansas Masonic Foundation, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, KS 66614-5335 at the direction of the Council of Administration from the office of The Grand Lodge A.F.& A.M. of Kansas. Periodicals Postage Paid at Topeka, KS 66675. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Kansas Mason, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, KS 66614.
SUMMER 2017 3
GRAND SECRETARY By M.W. Tracy L. Bloom, PGM, Grand Secretary
Looking Forward And Rolling Up My Sleeves As I write this article, immediately follow-
of Masons takes place in Kansas. It
ing the 161st Annual Communication of
is extremely frustrating to me that I
the Grand Lodge of Kansas, I find myself
am unable to say “Hello” and shake
both frustrated and satisfied, but extremely
each and everyone’s hand that at-
proud to be a Kansas Mason. It’s always
tends. I look forward each year to
a relief when all the meetings, meals,
putting faces with voices I hear over
awards, ceremonies and business of the
the phone or tying actual persons to
Grand Lodge are concluded and we can all
countless text’s or email communica-
relax and breathe a little easier. I would be
tions. For those of you who I did not
remiss if I didn’t personally thank our office
get to personally meet or shake your
staff Jan Nelson, Nancy McKeever, Dylan
hand, I apologize. I will try to do better
Raise Per-Capita ta to
Sweyko-Kuhlman, Chuck Hoffmeister and
next time!
Proposal a
SCORE CARD
PROPOSED BY-LAW REVISIONS Proposal 1
per day fee for Lodges that do not meet the initial plus Impose a . deadline for filing their Annual Report and paying of their Per-Capita Ta
X
_____ Passed _____ Failed
Proposal
Allow Members who s Lodge surrenders or has its Charter revoked to consolidate into the geographically closest Lodge.
X
_____ Passed _____ Failed
Wit hdrawn
Proposal
Institute a nomination process for Members running for the office of Grand unior Warden in lieu of the open election process that currently e ists. _____ Passed _____ Failed
Proposal
.
effective anuary ,
.
. Raise Per-Capita ta to . effective anuary ,
effective anuary ,
and to
X
_____ Passed _____ Failed
.
the Council of Administration. A simple
I was very satisfied that most every-
“Thank You” doesn’t seem enough. Ad-
thing went according to plan, of course
ditionally I’d like to thank Mikel Stoops, your
there are always a few contingencies
newly installed Grand Senior Deacon, for
that require on the fly decisions, but for
_____ Passed _____ Failed
his time, commitment, council and attention
the most part, they were kept to a min--
to detail in the months leading up to, and
imum. There were a few Hotel issues
Require all Lodges to submit their original Charters Warrants to Grand to be Lodge for historic preservation. Grand Lodge will issue a certified copy used by the Lodge.
through the execution of the 161st Annual
which have already been addressed
Communication. Additionally Brothers Bob
but to my knowledge everything else
Shively, Dave Hendricks, Chris Collins along
seemed to go well. Brothers, events such
with Lynne and Sylvia at the Kansas Masonic
as an Annual Communication of any Grand
Foundation, once again exceeded our ex-
Jurisdiction don’t just happen. There are
pectations with their hospitality and another
countless hours of preparation, planning,
fantastic auction at the All Masonic Banquet.
rehearsing, writing, rewriting and revising
This is always a bitter sweet time for me, as
plans, scripts, schedules, and set ups which
a person that I have worked closely with for
go into planning such an event. And please,
5 years as they progress through the Grand
that’s not a complaint, it’s just a fact, and
Senior Deacons chair to the elective Grand
perhaps a testament to the commitment of
Lodge Officer Line, completes his term in
your Grand Lodge Officers and office staff
office as the Grand Master and moves off the
that oversees and prepares for our Annual
line. A new Grand Master is installed and we
Meetings. It indeed is a huge task, but many
start the process all over again.
hands make for little work.
I mentioned that I was both frustrated
Reflecting on the past five years, and
and satisfied with our Annual Meeting,
more especially the previous year, I’d
please let me explain. The Annual Com-
like to thank Lyn E. Beyer, P.G.M., for his
munication is our largest event, the one
guidance, commitment and service. Your
time each year that the largest gathering
council was always timely and good, and
4 THE KANSAS MASON
X
_____ Passed _____ Failed
Proposal
off a Lodge to be reused if it has not been used for at least ame o name Allow the n years.
X
Proposal
X
SCORE CARD
_____ Passed _____ Failed
PROPOSED SED BY-LAW REVISIONS CONT. Proposal 7
Allow Minutes and Bills to be distributed to the Members of the Lodge Lodge in a format that is agreeable to the Member receiving them.
X
___ ____ __ Passed _____ Failed
Proposal 8
Require that Ciphers not be used by anyone with a part in the opening and closing of the Lodge. Allows for those not involved with the work to have an open cipher. Staged compliance based on Lodge Lodge Membership..
X
___ ____ __ Passed _____ Failed
Proposal 8a
Require that Ciphers not be used by or be on the person of anyone with a speaking part in the opening and closing of the Lodge or in the conferral of degrees. Allows for those not involved with the work to have an open cipher.
X
_____ ___ __ Passed __ _____ ___ Failed
Proposal 9
Repeal the Bylaw that requires a Lodge to have representati representation on at the Grand Lodge Annual Communication at least once every three years.
X
____ __ ____ Passe __ ssed d __ ____ ____ Faile __ iled d
Proposal 10
Withdrawn
Create a Membership at Large Status, whereby, Member Memberss of Defunct of Consolidatingg Lodges can maintain Membership as a Kansas Mason but Consolidatin not of a specific Lodge. _____ ___ __ Passed _____ Failed
Proposal 11
Withdrawn
Require Occasional Lodges to meet four times a year and remove the administrative service of the Grand Secretary that no Lodges have opted to use. ____ __ ____ Passed __ __ ____ ____ Fail __ ailed ed
SCORE CARD
now that your labors in the Grand East are
Beyer and others previously. Just as in op-
Grand Master, Council of Administration,
over, you can now sit back, relax and enjoy
erative masonry, one must start with a solid
Area and District Deputies are committed
all that life has to offer. Looking forward, B.
foundation to build a magnificent edifice.
to building upon the foundation already laid,
Cole Presley, Grand Master, is rolling up his
Likewise as speculative masons we must
for if not for that fact, we would not be able
sleeves and going to capitalize on the foun-
start with that foundation stone and work
to accomplish today the lofty goals already
dation and framework that was laid down by
up, for without it, we build for naught. Your
laid out.
Note From Nancy McKeever, Grand Lodge g a few I fell, breaking several bones, spendin ago s nth mo few a w, kno you of y As man had some s at home recuperating. I have now nth mo ple cou a n the l pita hos the days in e. therapy and am back to work full tim elming little misfortune I received an overwh After the word went out about my and their visits. People called to check on me and ails em s, call ne pho ds, car of number me. With t food and did household chores for ugh bro ers Oth . day my ned hte brig visits ngth was splint, movement was limited and stre a in arm t righ the t, cas a in d han the left s that interesting at best. Some brought item and cult diffi e wer s vitie acti ay ryd nil. Eve m from ds have been saved and I re-read the car the All ier. eas ch mu SO life my made d wishes thoughtful, all sent kind words and goo are e som ny, fun are e Som e. tim to time for a speedy recovery. ple and the work with an amazing group of peo to sed bles was I wn kno ays alw e I hav in to yers, were most humbling. I can’t beg pra and ts ugh tho the d, eive rec I es respons teful for every task, but I am tremendously gra and h eac or al vidu indi ry eve and h list eac ry one of you. them all. Thank you to each and eve Sincerely, Nancy, Grand Lodge of Kansas
SUMMER 2017 5
A PICTORIAL LOOK
6 THE KANSAS MASON
AT T H E 2 0 1 7 A N N U A L C O M M U N I C AT I O N
161st Session is in the history books!
SUMMER 2017 7
8 THE KANSAS MASON
2 0 1 7 A N N U A L C O M M U N I C AT I O N
SPRING 2017 9
10 THE KANSAS MASON
2 0 1 7 A N N U A L C O M M U N I C AT I O N
SPRING 2017 11
Grand Lodge Officers 2017-18 Grand Master
B. Cole Presley Millbrook Lodge No. 281, AF&AM, Justice Lodge No. 457, AF&AM
Deputy Grand Master
Robert C. Talbott Albert Pike Lodge No. 303, AF&AM, Hope Lodge No. 155, AF&AM
Grand Senior Warden
Delmus R. Morrow DSM Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173, AF&AM, Tuscan Lodge No. 460, AF&AM
Grand Junior Warden
Anthony W. Borum GMOM Parker Lodge No. 341, AF&AM, Tuscan Lodge No. 460, AF&AM
Grand Secretary
Tracy L. Bloom PGM Salina Lodge No. 60, AF&AM, Clay Center Lodge No. 134, AF&AM
Grand Treasurer
L. Kent Needham PGM Great Bend Lodge No. 15, AF&AM, Henri Lodge No. 190, AF&AM
Assistant Grand Secretary
Robert F. Nelson GMOM Emporia Lodge No. 12, AF&AM
Grand Chaplain
Perry A. Cross DSM Clay Center Lodge No. 134, AF&AM
Grand Orator
Frederick W. “Rick” Reichert PGM Hancock Lodge No. 311, AF&AM, Justice Lodge No. 457, AF&AM
Grand Senior Deacon
Mikel J. Stoops DSM Palmyra Lodge No. 23, AF&AM, DeSoto Lodge No. 40, AF&AM
Grand Junior Deacon
Michael D. Johnson Rising Sun Lodge No. 8, AF&AM, Peace Lodge No. 243, AF&AM, Tuscan Lodge No. 460, AF&AM
Grand Marshal
Jose M. Marrero, Sr. DSM Hancock Lodge No. 311, AF&AM, Justice Lodge No. 457, AF&AM
Grand Sword Bearer
Vernon J. Clark DSM Delaware Lodge No. 96, Wyandotte Lodge No. 3, AF&AM
Grand Senior Steward
Lowell G. Brown DSM Haysville Lodge No. 112, AF&AM, Douglass Lodge No. 151, AF&AM, Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173, AF&AM
Grand Junior Steward
Gary G. Shipley Hoxie Lodge No. 348, AF&AM
Grand Pursivant
Alexander D. Leslie Millbrook Lodge No. 281, AF&AM
Grand Tyler
Robert P. Jeselnik Wyandotte Lodge No. 3, AF&AM, Delaware Lodge No. 96, AF&AM
Assistant Grand Tyler
Michael A. Kupsch Wyandotte Lodge No. 3, AF&AM, Inner Quest Lodge No. 456, AF&AM
Grand Standard Bearer
Victor J. Henke, Jr. DSM Hancock Lodge No. 311, AF&AM
Grand Flag Bearer
Herbert F. Merrick, Jr. DSM Hancock Lodge No. 311, AF&AM
Grand Musician
Dennis L. Reed Topeka Lodge No. 17, AF&AM
12 THE KANSAS MASON
Area Deputy Grand Masters 1 Victor J. Henke Jr.
3 Leslie B. Allison
5 Craig P. Thompson
7 Robert D. McClarty
2 Lee A. Hermreck
4 Donald W. Wheeler
6 Mark W. Stephenson
8 Jason S. Gibson
9 William N. “Neal” Gamble 10 Rodney L. Ritchey
District Deputy Grand Masters 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2
Steven J. Humes Galen G. Graves Glenn G. Graves Charles D. Baskins Timothy D. Dugan Henry L. Johns James R. Burns III Shawn M. Cardin Randy H. Cornelius
3 3 3 3 4 4 4 4 5
Warren L. Hughes Ricky D. LeShure Curtis A. Utley Sanford B. Bass Jacob C. Glover Cole F. Wittum John K. Speer Jerry D. Kuffler Marvin E. Jones
5 5 5 5 6 6 6 6 7
Brian L. Chestnut Christopher M. Megonigle Kenneth G. Lackey D. Brian Byrd Wayne E. Edkin II Joseph A. Mitchell Raymond C. Gottstein David E. Barnes II Caleb J. Long
7 7 8 8 8 8 9 9 10 10
Michael N. Terry Wayne P. Link Shawn K. Catlin Anthony D. Perkins Gary D. Brown George E. Read Derik L. Hockett Dennis E. Burk Dennis M. Johnson Jason C. Padgett
Grand Lecturers & Assistant Grand Lecturers
Donald D. Newman Jr. PGM
Charles L. Ables Jr.
Andrew P. Cassity
Jason S. Gibson
H. Wayne Rector
Gene E. Becker Jr.
Vernon J. Clark
Delmus R. “Dale” Morrow DSM
Robert C. Talbott
Vernon L. Butt
John G. Crary
David R. Neal
C. David Williams III
Robert M. Schroeder David F. Snyder William G. Updegrove Jr.
J. Fred Williamson PGM
Grand Lecturers Emeritus A. Franklin Baldwin Jr. Earl E. Bryant Sr. Ronald W. Detwiler
Richard R. Haefele Leland G. Salts Neil E. Sammon
SUMMER 2017 13
GRAND LODGE
Awards From The Grand Lodge Of Kansas One of the most important tasks we complete at the Annual Communication every year is that of recognizing the many that serve and make the work of Kansas Freemasonry possible. The following Masons received awards from the Grand Lodge of Kansas: Master’s Achievement Award recognizes superior performance in leadership by Worshipful Masters. Special recognition is given to those Masters who exhibit program excellence by undertaking various activities that support, enhance, and build this great Fraternity by meeting minimum prescribed requirements as well as participating in additional activities that achieve a superior performance level. Shawn M. Cardin – Wyandotte No. 3
Paul R. Oldham – Euclid No. 101
Mark E. Kramsky – Overland Park No. 436
William C. Otto – Neosho No. 27
William P. Leonard – Old Mission No. 153
Michael A. Kupsch – Inner Quest No. 456
John P. Groves Jr. – Easton No. 45
Michael D. Johnson II – Peace No. 243
Maverick A. Bolen – Temple Builders No. 462
Richard W. Sodders – Delaware No. 96
Rozwell R. Perkins– Hancock No. 311
Hancock Lodge No. 311 achieved the highest number of points and will receive the $500 stipend.
Receiving an Outstanding Mason Award were: Edward B. Anderson – Hugoton No. 406
Marvin W. Irey – Melvern No. 22
James W. Morris – Hoisington No. 331
Michael L. Barnett – Anthem No. 284
Thomas L. Johnson – Hebron No. 314
Lloyd D. Northcutt – Marmaton No. 245
Gene E. Becker Jr. – Kincaid No. 338
Derrick S. Lee – Lafayette No. 16
Craig A. Olson – Advance No. 114
Randall L. Bennett – Shawnee No. 54
Roy L. Louk – Kincaid No. 338
Terry L. Osborn – Euclid No. 101
Bruce E. Bentz – Hugoton No. 406
Scott M. Lundgren – Anthem No. 284
Terry A. Phillips – Anthem No. 284
Thomas E. Clark – Patmos No. 97
Robert A. Mann – DeSoto No. 40
Mark A. Russell – Melvern No. 22
Michael G. Davison – Euclid No. 101
Jeremy T. Marshall – M.A. Armstrong No. 187
Harley G. Sharpe – Anthem No. 284
Silas W. Haddock – Melvern No. 22
Roger L. Montgomery – Melvern No. 22
Mark E. Smith – Anthem No. 284
Charles H. Hawkins – Shawnee No. 54
Bernard E. Moore – Equity No. 131
Jeffrey L. Staten – Stanley No. 444
Ritualist (B)
John K. Kramer – DeSoto No. 40
Ritualist First Class (A)
Fredrick W. Ahlemann –
Derrick S. Lee – Lafayette No. 16
Charles L. Ables Jr. – Belle Plaine No. 173
Myles D. Louderback – Golden Rule No. 90
Lowell G. Brown – Haysville No. 112
Ron R. Bowens – Sunflower No. 86
Harry A. Marshall – Sunflower No. 86
Carl A. Otto – Neosho No. 27
Wayne A. Butler – Sunflower No. 86
Nathaniel G. Nelzen –
Christopher D. Perry – Ben Hur No. 322
Overland Park No. 436
Robert K. Butz – Sunflower No. 86
Hutchinson-Reno No. 124
Senior Ritualist (M)
Michael G. Davison – Wyandotte No. 3
Christopher D. Perry – Ben Hur No. 322
Michael B. Gordon – Albert Pike No. 303
Nolan G. Sump – Oketo No. 25
Raymond C. Gottstein – Palmyra No. 23
Theodore M. Thomason – Wichita No. 99
Shaun L. Herring – Belleville No. 129
Dalton P. Thompson – DeSoto No. 40
Master Ritualist (U)
W. Doug Jessup – Overland Park No. 436
Josh Weber – Stanley No. 444
Charles L. Ables Jr. – Belle Plaine No. 173
Charles L. Ables Jr. – Belle Plaine No. 173 Carl A. Otto – Neosho No. 27
Gene E. Becker Jr. – Kincaid No. 338
14 THE KANSAS MASON
Individual leadership awards were established in 2014 to recognize those Brothers who have distinguished themselves by superior achievements in furthering the strategic plan of the Grand Lodge of Kansas. The awards recognize the remarkable dedication and incredible level of leadership necessary to achieve the mission of the Grand Lodge of Kansas. Three leaders were recognized for their extraordinary achievements. The Distinguished Service Medal recognizes superior achievements in three areas: Masonic Education, Esoteric Work and Communications. Three Masons to receive this award are:
Right Worshipful Brother
Worshipful Brother Lowell
Right Worshipful Brother
William “Neal” Gamble,
G. Brown, Immediate Grand
Warren L. Hughes,
Immediate Area Deputy
Senior Steward. He is the
Immediate District Deputy
Grand Master, outgoing District Deputy
outgoing Area Deputy Grand Master. Lowell
Grand Master. Warren has received the
Grand Master. Neal has received the
has received the Ritualist First Class (A)
Master’s Achievement award and the
Outstanding Mason award, Ritualist (B)
award, Outstanding Mason award and 25
Ritualist (B) award. He has held positions
award and 25 Year Service award. He is
Year Service award. He has held positions
as Worshipful Master, Senior Warden,
the outgoing Tyler of Anthem Lodge
as Worshipful Master, Senior Warden,
Senior Deacon, Junior Deacon and District
No. 284, AF&AM and has held positions as
Junior Warden, Senior Deacon, Tyler, Area
Deputy Grand Master.
Worshipful Master, Senior Warden, Junior
Deputy Grand Master and District Deputy
Warden, Senior Deacon, Junior Deacon
Grand Master.
and District Deputy Grand Master.
The Order of Merit Award recognizes exceptional meritorious service and leadership. This is the highest award to be conferred by the Grand Master. Right Worshipful Brother Ronald W. Detwiler is being
Ritualist (U) award on July 13, 2000. He has held the
recognized for this award for his meritorious and selfless
positions of Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Senior Deacon,
service to the Grand Lodge. Ron is a member of Kilwinning
Junior Deacon, Chaplain, Junior Steward, Worshipful Master
Lodge No. 265, AF&AM, Cosmos Lodge No. 278, AF&AM
of Kilwinning Lodge, Grand Lecturer Emeritus and Area
and the Kansas Lodge of Research. He received the Master
Deputy Grand Master.
The Trice-Robison Award is earned when a Lodge develops certified Ritualists, achieves perfect attendance of their Lodge at their District Schools of Instruction, has attendance at Leadership Academy, completes our new Masonic Education course, and is recognized by their Area or District Deputy Grand Master as proficient in all required ritual work. Neosho No. 27
Equity No. 31
Inner Quest No. 456
Easton No. 45
Euclid No. 101
Tuscan No. 460
SUMMER 2017 15
GRAND LODGE
16 THE KANSAS MASON
MAKING A DIFFERENCE By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff
2017 Essay Contest Question Set
postmarked no later than December 1, 2017.
The Grand Lodge of Kansas Council of Administration approved the recommendation by the Public Schools Committee for the 2017 Essay Contest Topic for Kansas junior and senior high school students beginning classes in August 2017: Kansas Masons have served Kansans and Kansas communities since 1856. In 2016, six new partnerships were initiated to enhance the lives of our citizens: • Adult Speech, Language, and Hearing Services • Communities of Excellence Program • Kansas Masonic Entrepreneurship Program • Kansas Masonic Literacy Center • Masonic Cancer Alliance • Military Affairs Partnership Select one of these programs and explain how it benefits you and/or your community. Promotional and Marketing materials will be sent to all Lodges and Statewide to all high schools, in late August 2017. Again $12,000 in scholarships will be awarded. Essays must be submitted to the Local Masonic Lodge on or before November 1, 2017. The winning essay(s) from the Lodge mailed to the Grand Lodge and must be
Kansas Masonic Foundation for questions and further program details.
Essay winners will be notified prior to March 2018. Contact the
2016 WINNERS FIRST PLACE ($4,000): Jaycie Jones Jefferson West High School, Perry Lodge No. 415 SECOND PLACE ($3,000): Mitchell Porter Rossville High School, Delia Lodge No. 419 THIRD PLACE ($2,000): Sabrea Platz Lawrence Free State High School, Lawrence Lodge No. 6 FOURTH PLACE ($1,000): Tierra Cooper Kiowa County High School, Kiowa Lodge No. 293 HONORABLE MENTION ($500): Janae Schulte Ellsworth High School, Ellsworth Lodge No. 146 HONORABLE MENTION ($500): Paige Winderlin Scott Community High School, Anthem Lodge No. 284 HONORABLE MENTION ($500): Jerica Garcia Holcomb High School, Tyrian Lodge No. 246 HONORABLE MENTION ($500): Greta Wehrman Sylvan-Lucas High School, Lincoln Lodge No. 154
HAVE YOU MADE YOUR
PLEDGE YET? If not, join your Kansas Masonic Brothers and do so today!
We have identified several future priorities for us as an organization. These priorities represent, not new directions or goals for KMF, but expansions and extensions of our foundational goals, which emerge from our vision and mission.
GOALS
SCIENTIFIC/RESEARCH MASONIC CANCER ALLIANCE
ADULT SPEECH, LANGUAGE AND HEARING SERVICE
EDUCATIONAL
KANSAS MASONIC LITERACY CENTER GRAND LODGE MUSEUM & LIBRARY CREATION & RENOVATION MUSEUM & LIBRARY ARCHIVIST ENDOWMENT KANSAS FREEMASONRY PUBLIC AWARENESS CAMPAIGN
CHARITABLE BUI LDING KANSAS
KANSAS MASON PRIDE COMMUNITIES OF EXCELLENCE KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY MILITARY AFFAIRS PARTNERSHIP
For Questions call or email Bob Shively, Executive Director, Kansas Masonic Foundation at Bob@KansasMasonic.Foundation (785) 357-7646
KANSAS MASONIC ENTREPRENEURSHIP CHALLENGE
SUMMER 2017 17
FEATURE ARTICLE By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff
Talent, Commitment, Vision: The incoming leadership of Area Deputy Grand Masters The following ten Brothers are the 2017-2018 Area Deputy Grand Masters appointed by the Grand Master to serve at his will and pleasure and are a part of the Executive Leadership team for the Grand Lodge of Kansas. Their responsibilities are to supervise and support the visits and activities of their assigned DDGMs, develop an
Rob
Lee
McClarty brings
Hermreck was
25 years of law
raised as a Master
enforcement
Mason in 1997, and
experience and leadership to the
he only wishes he had found his way
Kansas Masons as Area Deputy
to the fraternal organization sooner.
Grand Master. He envisions
His stepfather, father and brother
opportunities for each Brother to
all are Masons, and now three sons
work for the betterment of his
have followed in his footsteps.
Lodge, to improve their proficiency
As Area Deputy Grand
in esoteric work and to draw new
Master, Lee hopes to increase
members at the same time as
representation at the Annual
current members are revitalized in
Communication and Leadership
their commitment.
Academy and to lead his Brothers
Rob believes that for a Lodge to
by example. He would like to focus
be successful and vibrant it takes
on working with new Brothers,
members who want to be actively
where sometimes he sees excellent
jurisdictions, create or help to create
involved. Therefore, Lodge leadership
work in performing ritual as they do
must demonstrate to all members
the degree work but Lodges may fail
strategic plans for local Lodges and to
why there is value in attending.
to meet their needs as they attend
overall assessment for their assigned
serve as a local event coordinator for
Rob’s key traits developed
Lodge meetings. He would like to
throughout his life experiences,
see Lodges open and close without
Grand Lodge Events in their Area. Also
professional career, and Masonic
the use of the cypher.
they will often times be asked to make
helping his District Deputy Grand
he enjoys communicating with
Masters work with the Lodges so
Brothers, and will always be
they can become more than they
available for advice and usually an
are today.
opinion too.
many emblem presentations on the Grand Masters behalf.
endeavors will all benefit him in
Rob, who is Chief of Police in
Lee has five children and eight
McPherson, has been married to his
grandchildren. He and his partner
wife, Jana, for more than 30 years.
Josie Humphrey enjoy attending
The couple thrive on participating in
Royals games and concerts.
community activities, travel, fitness and seeking out fun and challenging
18 THE KANSAS MASON
A surveyor by trade, Lee said
life experiences.
Craig P.
Don
Rodney
Les Allison
Thompson
Wheeler
Ritchey plans
learned
is a Kansan,
has a strong
to encourage
Masonry at
born and raised in Liberal and
history of Masonic leadership
the connectivity that’s so
the feet of his father, who was
transplanted to Winfield for
since he was raised as a Master
important for Lodges, helping
raised in December 1941. His
more than 20 years, where he
Mason in Vulcan Lodge No.
them understand the value of
father taught Les lifelong lessons
manages a medical management
229 in 1982. After serving as
interacting with one another
in respect for others, offering
and billing company.
Master five times and Deputy
and working together as a large
help when needed and being a
District Grand Master four
Masonic family.
gentleman.
Through his work as an Area
As he takes on the role of
This will be Les’s second
Deputy Grand Master, Craig
times, he envisions his new role
hopes to help create a common
as working with each DDGM
Area Deputy Grand Master,
term as an Area Deputy Grand
vision and combined purpose for
to help each Lodge find one
Rodney would like to help
Master, and he brings into
the lodges in Area 5. The sense
area where they would like to
Lodges understand what they
the role a focus on positive
of community of working toward
improve.
do best and what challenges
motivation, esoteric proficiency
them the most. As they
and new member recruitment.
a common goal can alleviate
He would like to see
He plans to tackle a concern
the challenges of a Lodge that
improved communications
identify those strengths and
sometimes feel as if they are
to Lodges, which includes
weaknesses, the Lodges can
in Area 3 to make Grand Lodge
laboring alone.
at minimum two visits from
contact each other and share
programs accessible to the
their DDGM and one from
their talents and expertise in
Craft and for the Craft to have
will take on the challenge, felt
the ADGM. A detail-oriented
support of one another.
better communication with
statewide, of declining members,
person, Don hopes to use his
With a strong leadership
members and DDGMs. Les said
bolstering programs that may help
own communication skills to
background, Rod isn’t afraid
he hopes to develop a method
increase monthly attendance and
talk about Masonry to the craft
to tackle the tough issues and
for DDGMs to communicate
seeking to help Lodges become
and to the public. Success when
then coordinate a way to work
electronically to their Lodges as
known in area communities for
he completes his service will be
together to find answers. A
a group through their Masters
the good Masons do. Years of
defined as each Lodge having
team-oriented attitude makes
and Secretaries, and for the
secrecy in the Masonic tradition
a better understanding of
everyone stronger and more
Masters and Secretaries to
have led to many men who are
Grand Lodge and the programs
focused on achieving goals.
communicate with each other
unaware of the organization and
that are beneficial to helping
Rod was raised as a Master
the philanthropic good it does.
Masonry in their community.
Mason in 1986, and has served
In a leadership position, Craig
A former high school teacher
A Purchasing Manager at
in multiple roles within his home
and their DDGM in this same format. Although he claims to bring
and school administrator,
Peerless Products in Fort Scott,
Lodge. This is his second term
no talent to the ADGM role, an
Craig will utilize his strong
Kan., Don jokes that his wife,
as ADGM. He has owned Rod’s
unlikely claim, Les said he brings
communication skills to reach the
Sue, “tells me I have been
Locksmith Shop for 27 years,
persistence and the knowledge
goals he has for Area 5. Although
happily married for 21 years.”
and also serves as the Executive
of how important Brotherly love
he wants to strengthen the Lodges
The couple have three children
Director for the St. Francis
and fellowship can be. There is
in his area, his goal at the end of
and three grandchildren.
Housing Authority.
power in helping and supporting
his term is to become a better
each other, and he will work to
man and a better Mason.
establish that sense of unity.
He and his wife, Kelle, have
Les and his wife of 50 years,
been married 24 years and have
Linda, have four children, 11
a daughter and son who keep
grandchildren and four great-
them busy.
grandchildren.
SUMMER 2017 19
FEATURE ARTICLE
Mark
Jason
Victor
William
Stephenson
Gibson
Henke
"Neal"
Lifelong
will work as
is looking
Gamble has
Topekan works for the State of
Area Deputy Grand Master
forward as Area Deputy
spent almost half a century in
Kansas and currently is pursuing
to provide DDGMs and their
Grand Master to helping the
Scott City, Kan. He and his wife,
his master of arts degree from
Lodges with tools to succeed
Lodges across a diverse area
Karen, have raised two children
Kansas State University. His
in the goals they have set and
bring current Brothers back
there, and Neal made his mark
Masonic journey started in
to promote proficiency in the
to meetings and engaging
on the business community with
1979 when he was initiated
esoteric work.
communities to understand the
a business that’s been in his
value and goodwill the Masons
family since 1975.
into DeMolay, and Mark credits
He would like to strengthen
bring to the area.
A third-generation Mason,
his grandfather, Ralph Wilson,
leadership in the principle
as being his role model in his
officer positions in all the
participation in the Masons and
Lodges in his area, working
on helping Masters achieve
Anthem Lodge No. 284 in Scott
also in how he lived his life.
with DDGMs and Lodges to
their goals, including planning
City for 33 years. As Master for
As Area Deputy Grand
provide training. One aspect
meetings and aggressively
four years and District Deputy
Master, Mark plans to help
of increasing knowledge would
reaching out to the community.
for one year, he enjoys traveling
Lodges recruit quality members
be increasing attendance at
Henke would like to see each
to other Lodge meetings to help
and be able to provide them
the Leadership Academy and
Lodge hold or sponsor two
with degree work and the spirit
with excellence in Masonic
potentially developing an area
events that will showcase
of fellowship he has found with
education, esoteric work and
leadership training program.
Masonry. Events such as Teacher
his Masonic Brothers.
improved communications. He
As an industrial electrician for
As ADGM, his focus will be
& Student Recognition, the Essay
Neal has been a member of
His goal for the Lodges is
would like to see increased
17 years and a project engineer
Contest and cancer screenings
to promote the good things
focus on helping new members
for the past three years, Jason
are ideal to raise awareness of
Masons do, especially to
understand the initiation and
brings excellent troubleshooting
what the Lodge does.
encourage new membership
to offer them a more thorough
and problem-solving skills to the
explanation of Masonic degrees.
ADGM role, and he’s looking
increased Lodge attendance and
Many Lodges in the area have
forward to offering DDGMs
for each Master to qualify for the
consolidated, and Neal would
for the Masons leads Mark to
support and the tools they need
Master’s Achievement Award.
like to go to those areas without
strives to be a “force for good”
to make their Lodges successful.
Henke brings experience
and as he looks back at his term
Jason is married to Monica,
from other Masonic leadership
as ADGM, he hopes to see an
whom he describes as his “best
roles, as well as a hefty dose of
increase in members attending
friend and the love of my life.”
common sense created over
Scale Service and M-R Brand
Lodges.
They have two sons, the oldest
years through experience in
Scale Mfg., and he admits to
of who just became a Master
varied backgrounds. Twenty
being a bit of a workaholic.
Mason at age 18.
years as an Army officer gave
When he does tear himself
DeMolay member, and he’s
him a broad base in planning
away, he spends time with
thrilled that his two beautiful
and executing diverse events.
his wife, Karen, or works on
His deep and abiding love
Although he never married, Mark had guardianship of a
daughters call him “Papa Mark.”
He hopes to bring about
and growth in the fraternity.
Lodge buildings and encourage the members to rebuild. Neal is co-owner of Gene’s
old automobiles, and can be found wood working and metal working.
20 THE KANSAS MASON
OLD COWTOWN MUSEUM Kansas Masons Day
Save the Date
For The Family Masonic Picnic & Drink Stations Throughout the Day’s Events Hands on Experience
Sunday,August 20, 2017 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Interactive Displays
1865 W. Museum Blvd. Wichita, Kansas
Special Exhibits
Costumed Interpreters Gunfights and Demonstrations Wagon Rides Sarsaparilla in Fritz Snitzler’s Saloon Country & Western Band Sponsored By: Grand Lodge Of Kansas Kansas Masonic Foundation Abdallah Shrine Arab Shrine Isis Shrine Midian Shrine Mirza Shrine Scottish Rite Orient Of Kansas Grand York Rite Bodies Of Kansas
Registration Fee: $20 Mason, $15/Family Members/Guests, Children Under 12 Free
Following The Afternoon Fun All attendees are invited to KMH (Kansas Masonic Home) 401 S. Seneca St. (approximately 1 mile from Museum) for cake, ice cream and fellowship. Tours of KMH will we available. Sponsored by KMH.
An All Masonic Picnic is planned and provided as part of this exciting day of activities.
CALL THE KANSAS MASONIC FOUNDATION FOR RESERVATIONS (785) 357-7646
SEND IN YOUR FULL AMOUNT TODAY TO GUARANTEE YOUR SPOT! Students must be sponsored by a Lodge or other Masonic body. We are limited to 225 students. Students must be enrolled as High School Freshmen, Sophomore, Junior or Senior as of Sept. 1, 2017, or be a member of the graduating Class of 2017.
LODGE OF RESEARCH By Herb F. Merrick, Jr., DSM, Past Master Hancock Lodge No 311 & KMF Trustee
Enabling The Masonic Explorer In All Of Us. Kansas Lodge of Research was established in 1982 to conduct research, gather and preserve Masonic information, supply speakers, and enhance Grand Lodge endeavors to promote Masonic Education. In this article Bro. Herb Merrick explores the background of the first Master of his Lodge and reveals the high ‘caliber’ of an Army artillery officer who received the military’s most prestigious combat decoration. Perhaps your Lodge has had Brothers with extraordinary accomplishments. Submit your findings to klor@kansasmason.org or see our web page at kansasmason.org.
Buried By His Brothers
APRIL 1865, THE END OF THE UNION ARMY’S SIEGE OF RICHMOND WAS IN SIGHT. THE CONFEDERATE ARMY HAD FAILED IN A BREAK OUT ATTEMPT AND AFTER THE UNION BREAKTHROUGH IN PETERSBURG IT BEGAN ITS FINAL RETREAT.
As the Confederate
both attacks and retreats
Military Establishment left
because that is what gave
Richmond/Petersburg it
units cohesion. It was the
was covered by the fire
identity of those who
of gunboats on the James
served under it. The im-
River Squadron of the
portance of a flag cannot
Confederate Navy1 includ-
be overstated. This was
ing the CSS Nansemond.
particularly true of sailors
As the Army moved away from the river
ates on 4 April 1865 upon the evacuation
of this period, because when your flag was
the crews burned there ships and then
of Richmond. The crew then decided to
“struck” or taken down the battle was over.
joined the Army marching under the flags
become infantrymen. On April 6th marching
from the vessels. The “CSS Nansemond,”
in the rear guard of Confederate Army at
their flag were about to meet another
which bore the name of a Virginia tide-
Jetersville, Virginia under the flag of a naval
unlikely group of soldiers. Riding in advance
water town, county, and river, was a small
vessel were a group of sailors. The impor-
of the 5th Union Corps, and as it would
vessel belonging to the Confederate James
tance of a flag in 19th century warfare is
turn out the entire union army, was a
River Squadron. It was a wooden steamer
lost to most present day readers. After the
portion of its signal section under Captain
of about 80 tons and carried a battery of
American Civil War units did not take flags
Benyaurd, scouting locations to establish
two guns. Built at Norfolk in 1862, and
into battle. But, up until then the flag was
an aerial telegraphy or wig-wag station.2
served in actions all long the James River
critical. It was where the commander could
This mounted detachment crossed a small
in Virginia. It was burned by the Confeder-
be found, to follow the flag was critical in
hill and discovered the Confederate force
The sailors of the Nansemond following
SUMMER 2017 23
LODGE OF RESEARCH
that included the sailors of the Nansemond,
behalf agreed that exposure in the field
although they were outnumbered the
was to blame. Thus, when a private bill
commanding officer ordered a charge and a
was introduced in Congress to grant
brief skirmish ensued. The result of which
him pension, the House Committee on
was the capture of three officers and three
Invalid Pensions reported that the medical
enlisted men. But most important the flag
examining board found “him badly disabled
of the Nansemond fell into the hands of
with rheumatism and heart disease.” In the
Private Second Class and Chief Bugler
Committee’s view it was “irresistible that
Morgan D. Lane.3 He was about as average
his disease and his present unfortunate
as any soldier of the period. He was a man who was going about what he thought was his duty. Lane was born in Monroe, New York about 18454 and moved with his family to Michigan a few years later. He was the
condifore (sic), it recommended pension.
Confederate Ensign thought to be from the CSS Nansemond11
The Senate committee concurred and the
for his transfer to the signal corps, though
year before Lane’s death. Thereafter, until 4
being able to bugle no doubt helped.
May 1892, Lane drew a pension of $17.00
After transferring to the signal corps he
bill became a law on 22 February 1891, the
a month.8
only child of his family to survive into
would become the orderly to one of the
adulthood losing five brothers to illness as
staff officers, Lieutenant P. H. Niles, and was
moved to Chicago and in 1871, in Oil
infants. He was a small man only five feet
serving in that capacity when he captured
City, Pennsylvania, Lane married Euphemia
one inch tall, with a dark complexion, dark
the flag of the Nansemond along with its
Mead, a well-educated middle aged lady
brown hair and black eyes. He was strong
commanding officer. For this he would be
who would later write society page pieces
having worked on farm before he enlisted
award the “Gold Medal” and two weeks
for the Chicago Observer and Saturday
in the 5th Regiment of Michigan Cavalry
leave. In March of 1866 to standardize
Evening Herald. By the time of his marriage
on the 22 August 1862, he would serve
the awarding of medals and upon the
Lane was in the insurance business, which
with that regiment until transferring to the
recommendation of Colonel Benjamin F.
he would continue to be a salesman until
signal corps in April of 1864. His cavalry
Fisher, Lane would receive the Medal of
his death. For some years after 1874 he
time include service on the East Cavalry
Honor. He is the first and only member
was with the Accident Department of
Battlefield at Gettysburg and Monterey
of the Army’s Signal Corps to receive this
the Travelers’ Life and Accident Insurance
Pass, Smithsburg, Williamsport, Boonsboro,
recognition during the Civil War.7
Company of Hartford, Connecticut. He
Hagerstown, Falling Waters, Battle
After his discharge from the Army,
After completing his education Lane
traveled a great deal; he was “away from
Mountain and Newby’s Cross Roads in July
Lane returned to Michigan and apparently
home most of the time.” In 1884, after an
of 1863 throughout Virginia and the winter
completed school, but as the years passed
admission of infidelity on his part, he and
of 1863/4.5 Being in Custer’s Calvary as the
he suffered increasingly from rheumatism,
Euphemia separated permanently, although
Michigan Calvary Brigade was known, meant
which he claimed he contracted in the
they were never divorced. They had no
hours of hard riding and regular action.6
Army in the winter of 1864-65, and from
children. In the late 1880’s he moved to
This brigade’s regiments were among the
heart disease, perhaps brought on by the
Atchison Kansas. During the last two years
most active in the Army of the Potomac and
rheumatism. He had not been hospitalized
of his life Lane resided in Atchison, Kansas,
its members suffered accordingly. It is this
in the Army, however, and therefore was
with Mr. And Mrs. H. R. Anderson. During
hard service that was cited as the root cause
never able to convince the Pension Office
that period he was able to work only part
of Lane’s later ailments that would result in
that his disability was service-connected,
of the time, selling insurance. He died of
his disability pension. It was also the reason
although the medical testimony in his
stroke (apoplexy in those days) on 23 June
24 THE KANSAS MASON
it has since become.
1892 (or 22 July 1892, it is not clear which),
But, Brother Lane has not been
still in his forties, and penniless. It is not clear when he joined the fraternity, but he
completely forgotten; the United States
was a Mason when he arrived in Atchison,
Army Europe chapter of the Signal
and joined Washington Lodge No. 5. He
Corps Regimental Association bears his
attended Lodge, but was not active in its
name9, at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey,
leadership likely due to his illnesses. He was
Lane Avenue10 and Lane Hall, a non-
buried in the Vernon Cemetery in Atchison.
commissioned officers’ mess on Riverside
The funeral expense were covered by the
Avenue , commemorate the first Signal
Lodge, according to his friend Anderson,
Atchison Lodge
Corps winner of the Medal of Honor. At
because “he did not leave enough money
history. Yet he performed his duty as best
Fort Huachuca, Arizona the enlisted men’s
to pay for the funeral expenses.” Anderson
he could and thereby served his country.
barracks are named after him.
added that “the Government finished a
He had only one moment of glory in all
tombstone.”
his life. For that he was rewarded with a
would be pleased if he knew. Lane was just
promised gold medal, which turned out to
an American Soldier doing what soldiers
the Civil War (or his counterparts in any
be the Medal of Honor. It was not his fault
do, he was recognized for valor and then
war), he was swept into the dustbin of
that the Medal was not in his day that which
returned to a normal life.
Rather, like most of his fellow soldiers in
It is all small comfort to Lane, but he
About the Author Herb Merrick was born in Yokohama Japan the oldest son of a career Army Officer, but grew up in Forsyth, Missouri where his family settled on the farm, that he still oversees. He was raised in November of 1974 in the Forsyth Lodge 453. He graduated from Missouri State University in May of 1975 and was commissioned in the US Army as field artilleryman. In June of that year he married Carolyn and they spent the next twenty two years traveling the world. Herb has sat in a lot of lodges, but was only active in one before moving to Kansas. He held a variety of offices in Forget-Me-Not 896 in the American Canadian Grand Lodge of Germany during his five years serving in that country, including secretary for two years. In 1994 Herb, Carolyn and their daughter Kristina settled in Lansing, Kansas and Herb joined Hancock Lodge 311 on Fort Leavenworth. He served as Master in 2004 and again in 2009. He has held every office in the lodge except Treasurer. He served the Grand Lodge as District Deputy in 2009, as Grand Pursuivant in 2013 and Grand Marshal in 2014. He has also been on a number of Grand Lodge Committees. Herb belongs to the Armed Forces Scottish Rite, Leavenworth and Heidelberg York Rite bodies, Greeter of Abdallah Shrine, Byington Chapter 177 OES as well as Haworth Chapter 32 OES and the National Sojourners of Fort Leavenworth. He has been the treasurer of Pilgrim Community Church for the last thirteen years. Kristina lives in Washington DC with her husband Nick and their daughter Evelyn. Herb teaches at the United States Army Command and General Staff College. In his spare time he likes the shooting sports, hunting, golf, and reading particularly ancient and military history. Plus getting to see Evelyn whenever there is a chance. 1 The Confederate Order of Battle: The Army of Northern Virginia, F. Ray Sibley, White Mane Publishing Company 1996 pages 161, 179 and 189. 2 Report of Capt. Charles L. Davis Chief Signal Officer Hdqrs Army of the Potomac, Signal Depart April 22, 1865; from The War of Rebellion “the Appomattox Campaign page 639. 3 www.history.army.mil/html/moh/civwaral.html accessed 7 March 2017. 4 valor.militarytimes.com/recipient.php?recipientid=2414 5 Crossed Sabers “Battery M 2nd US Artillery”, http://crossedsabers.blogspot.com/2008_09_01_archive.html 29 September 2008 also Dyer’s Compendium of the War of the Rebellion. Accessed 6 May 2014 (see 21 Days of Valor Custer’s Artillery During the Gettysburg Campaign) 6 www.civilwararchive.com/Unreghst/unmicav.htm#5th 7 www.civilwarsignals.org/brown/signalmen/lanesgoldmedal.pdf accessed 7 March 2017. 8 U. S. Senate, 51st Cong., 2d Sess (February 26 1891)., Report No. 2194 (sec 2827), which quotes the House committee report. A copy of this Senate report is in the Lane pension file, WC 46 0-861,loc. Cit. 9 sic.memberclicks.net/ accessed 7 March 2017. 10 Fort Monmouth History and Place Names, 1917-1959 (Ft. Monmouth, N.J., 6 April1959), pp. 53, 68, and the map opp. P. 70 11 However, this is not a normal naval ensign, more likely carried by members the Marine Battalion or Tucker’s Naval Brigade.
SUMMER 2017 25
FROM THE ARCHIVES
By Dylan Sweyko-Kuhlman, Archivist, Kansa Masonic Library and Museum
Masonic Profile: John M. Chivington
Letter of Good Standing from Secretary of Butlerville Lodge No. 135 for John M. Chivington. Pulled from Kansas Masonic Library and Museum Archives. Throughout history, there have been
Methodist Conference. It was
held various Methodist
Masons who have shaped the world around
said that he was moved out of
positions in Nebraska. It
them and had their names etched in the
Missouri to the Kansas Ne-
was in Nebraska where
history books. John Milton Chivington
braska Conference due to his
Chivington increased his
is one of those men. His life touched
disagreement on the topic of
Masonic involvement. In
notable moments in history, such as the
slavery with his parishioners in
1857, Chivington was an
early spread of Methodism in the West,
Missouri, as Chivington was a
original Petition signer
the Abolitionist Movement, the Civil War,
staunch abolitionist. There is
and Native American conflicts in Colorado.
even an anecdotal story of his
While such large events can dominate the
time in Missouri after receiving a threaten-
Omaha, Nebraska. The Dispensation and
narrative of a person’s life, for us, it is also
ing letter from his congregation to stop
Charter were issued by the Grand Lodge of
important to know that person as a man in
preaching, he appeared at the next Sunday’s
Iowa, and the Lodge would later become
the Masonic Craft.
service with a bible and two pistols, stating
Capitol Lodge No. 3 of the Grand Lodge
“By the grace of God and these two revolv-
of Nebraska. With the formation of the
ers, I am going to preach here today.”
Grand Lodge, Chivington was named the
John M. Chivington was born in Warren County, Ohio on January 27, 1821 to Isaac
John M. Chivington
and Charter Member of Capitol Lodge No. 101 in
It was during his short time in Kansas,
first Grand Chaplin of the Grand Lodge of
the third of four children, and by his late
around 1854, when he helped establish one
Nebraska. In 1860, he was also named the
teens was drawn to the Methodist religion.
of the oldest and most storied Lodges in
Presiding Elder of the Methodists’ Rocky
In 1842, he entered seminary and earned a
Kansas, Wyandotte Lodge No. 3. He, along
Mountain District in Colorado.
Divinity Degree to serve as a Circuit Rider
with other famous Kansans like members of
in the West. In 1846, he also took his Ma-
the Garrett and Walker family, signed the
ton’s notable actions, Masonic and non-Ma-
sonic degrees at Butlerville Lodge No. 136
original Petition sent to the Grand Lodge of
sonic take place. Upon moving to Colorado,
of Ohio. His preaching career leads him
Missouri. He was named the first Master of
Chivington is credited with starting two
to positions in Illinois, Missouri, and then
the Lodge while it was meeting Under Dis-
Lodges, Summit Lodge No. 7 at Parkville
Kansas where he makes his mark on Kansas
pensation. He only served as Worshipful
and Rocky Mountain Lodge No. 8 at Gold
Masonic history. His position in Kansas was
Master for seven meetings before his circuit
Hill, both chartered by the Grand Lodge of
to serve as a missionary among the Wyan-
riding took him north to Nebraska. From
Nebraska. Another anecdote states that
dotte Indians of the Kansas and Nebraska
the end of 1854 through 1860, Chivington
Chivington came to Colorado with two
Chivington and Jane Ann Runyon. He was
26 THE KANSAS MASON
It was in Colorado where most of Chiving-
Dispensations already written up and signed by the Grand Master of Nebraska that just needed to be filled in with the proper places and names. This story was told by Chase Withrow, the oldest Past Grand Master of Colorado at the time of a Past Grand Masters Night when he made these remarks sometime after his term in 1866. Whether or not that is true, the Grand Lodge of Colorado credits Chivington with organiz organizing these two Lodges, and he is listed as a Charter Member of Rocky Mountain Lodge No. 8. These two Lodges, chartered by Nebraska, and three other Lodges chartered by Kansas: Golden City Lodge No. 34, Auraria Lodge No. U. D., and Nevada Lodge U. D., came together to create the Grand Lodge of Colorado in 1861. At this formation, Chivington was unanimously elected as the first Grand Master of Colorado. He is later credited in helping form a third Lodge in
Front Page of Rocky Mountain News from 1932. Pulled from Kansas Masonic Library and Museum Archives.
Colorado. At the height of the Civil War, tensions in Denver Lodge No. 5, formerly
lived out the rest of his days until his death
Army in Colorado and played an instrumen-
Auraria Lodge of Kansas, were so high
of cancer in 1894.
tal part in the Union’s victory at Glorieta
between the pro-slavery and anti-slavery
All told, Chivington was involved in
Pass. He was also the infamous command-
sides that something needed to be done.
Masonic efforts in four states: Ohio, Kansas,
er in charge of the Colorado Cavalry Units
The Grand Lodge of Colorado stepped
Nebraska, and Colorado. This was during
involved in the Sand Creek Massacre.
in and had the Union supporters split and
the mid-1800’s, so this speaks to his dedica-
form Union Lodge No. 7. Chivington was
tion to the craft throughout his years. He
concerning John M. Chivington that can be
listed as a Charter Member, which further
was involved in the creation of five differ-
written about in one article. If you are inter-
demonstrates his Abolitionist leanings.
ent Lodges in three states. And while his
ested in this topic, please search the records
After his activities during the Civil War in
contributions to the Masonic Craft were
available at http://kansasmason.pastperfec-
the 1860’s, he moved briefly to Ohio and
considerable, Chivington also played a much
tonline.com/ or check out the books The
California to work as a freight carrier and
larger role in American History. He was a
Indians of the Pike’s Peak Region or Echoes
then a newspaper editor, but he eventually
Circuit Rider in six states during the 1850’s
from Peak and Plain now available at the
moved back to Colorado by 1883 where he
and 1860’s. He served as part of the Union
Kansas Masonic Library and Museum.
There is so much more information
Sources: John M. Chivington History 1928-1933, Archive Collection. Kansas Masonic Library and Museum. Chivington Paper, Grand Lodge of Colorado. Dylan Kuhlman has been working in archives and libraries for the last six years. Originally from Dighton, a small western Kansas town, he attended Baker University where he received a Bachelor of Arts in History. He followed with a Masters in Library Science and an Archives Certificate from Emporia State University. His work experience includes positions at the University and Kansas Methodist Archives for Baker University, the National Archives and Records Administration in Kansas City and the Kansas Historical Society in Topeka. He has also done volunteer and graduate work at the Grinter Place Historic Site, The National WWI Museum, The Kansas City Public Library and the University Archives at Johnson County Community College.
SUMMER 2017 27
A. Overton Durrett Aaron Rush Albert Pike Lodge No. 303 Alexander Leslie Austin Zeh Barry Rimmey Baxter Lodge No. 71 Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173 Bill and Vera Wheeler Bill Leonard Bill Snyder Blue Dot Services of Topeka Bob Shively Bob Dole Bob Talbott Bob Whitehead Bonnie and Michael King Brad Koehn Bradley Childs Brian Huntzinger Bruce Brooksher Bruce Eveland Bryce Porter Burlington Lodge No. 66 C. David Williams C. Joseph Beck Chad Lee Charles Delimont Charles L. Rodman Charles Neeland Chester Metcalf Chris Cushing Chris Collins Chris Range Clay Thomas Cole Presley, GM Continuum Energy Dale Samuelson Daniel Allen Daniel Smith Daren Kellerman, PGM Darrel Kellerman Dave Hendricks David Cross David Eckert David Hooper David Ragan Motorsports David Rake Davis Cross Dean Hodgson Dennis M. Johnson 28 THE KANSAS MASON
Dennis Miles Dennis Reed Derby Lodge No. 365 Devon Lodge No. 92 Don Brent Photography Don Campbell Donald Nelson Donald W Wheeler Ed Rice Edward Trayford Emporia Lodge No. 12 Forrest Waltman Francis Jackson Froggy French Garry Bichelmeyer Garth Bloom Gary and Roberta Shipley Gary Folk Gary Shipley Gilead Lodge No. 144 Girard Sensol Glen R. Epperson Goodland Lodge No. 321 Grand Lodge of Kansas Hancock Lodge No. 311 Henry Repeating Arms Co. Herb Merrick, Jr. Hollis Worthen Howard Jones J. Clifford Urie J. Michael Faubion James Alcorn James Dahl James Factor James Jack James Lyle James R. Burns, III Jamie Carwell Jayson Huff Jerry Lohoefner Jerry McDaniel Jimmie Grassi, Sr. Joe Kennedy John and Rita French John Crary John E. Masters John Mowen, PGM Jonathan McConnell Jose Marrero Juan Pablo Gordillo Justice Lodge No. 457
Justin Crippen Justin Query Kansas Masonic Foundation Karen Dixon Karen Olson Kelly Long Ken Keller Kendall Garton Kent Needham Kim Crofoot Kitch Peterson Kurt Neis Kyle Olson Lafayette Lodge No. 16 Leroy Hyslop Les Evans Lyn Beyer, PGM Lynn Hartford Macoy Publishing Marc Rowe Mark Reeder Mark Davison Mark E Smith Mark Reeder Marvin Fletcher Metal Exchange Michael Davidson Michael Gooding Michael Hawkesworth Michael Hitchcock Mike Carnes Mike Hamman Mike Tavares Mikel and Pamela Stoops Neil Underwood Ninnescah Lodge No. 230 Osage Valley Lodge No. 24 Parsons Lodge No. 117 Patsy Bottoms Paul Benner Perry Cross, Jr. Philemon St. Amant Philip A Gicalone Raymond & Kay Gottstein Reenie Henry Estate Rich Avery Richard Allison, GM of Oklahoma Richard Schroder Richard Stoops Rick Reichert, PGM
Robert Jeselnik Robert LaPreze Robert McClarty Robert Nelson Robert Willaby Ryan Edmundson Sam Long Sam Oakleaf Scott Oppegard Scottish Rite of Topeka Shannon Hill Shawn Cardin Shawn Heckmaster SHR, LLC Spring Hill Lodge No. 56 Steve and Sue Towns Steve Humes Steve Mason Steve Molstad Steve Randels Steven Jacobs Steven Meyer Steven Songer Thomas Giordano Thomas Mason Tim Kennedy Tim Dugan Tim Fowler Todd Harrelson Tom Krauss Tony Borum Topeka Capital Plaza Hotel Topeka Lodge No. 17 Tracy Bloom, PGM Tri Star Glass Troy Carson Tuscan Lodge No. 460 University of Kansas Vernon Clark Vic Henke, Jr. Virginia Lodge No. 315 Von Kopfman Warren Hughes Warren Slocombe William Abernathy William D. McDaniel William Reeder Yancey Smith Zeredatha Lodge No. 80
ANNUAL COMMUNICATION 2017 AUCTION
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Thank You 4th F ree m a s on s En d o wm ent For your Tremendous Support for the Fourth Annual Fulfilling Our Obligation Auction C HAR
IT Y A U C T I O N
The Fourth Annual Fulfilling Our Obligation – Sold on Helping Brothers, Freemasons Charity Auction reached a fantastic conclusion on March 17, 2017 at the Capitol Plaza Conference Center. The event successfully raised almost $70,000 from cash pledges, including online, silent and live auction donations. 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the Freemason Endowment benefiting distressed Kansas Masons and Widows.
SUMMER 2017 29
HOME WARMINGS
By Hervey Wright III, Director of Development and Fraternal Relations, KMH
Service Minded—Not-For-Profit Kansas Masonic Home is a not-for-profit (NFP) organization. I think most of us understand what not-for profit means but I would guess many would not truly understand the impact of being a not-for-profit aging-services provider has on senior care. “The good that men may do separately is small compared with what they may do collectively� -Brother Benjamin Franklin
Some of the key points for not-for-profit providers include the following:
Values-Driven Management NFP providers manage their margin to achieve their mission. Quality is the barometer for their work, not earnings. All proceeds are reinvested in rewarding staff, improving facilities and service, and most importantly providing charitable care to individuals that may have depleted their resources. That is not always the case in a for-profit community.
Community Oversight All NFP providers are accountable to a board of directors whose members volunteer their time and talent. Kansas Masonic Home has a 9 member operating board that holds senior leadership and management accountable to our mission.
Committed Staffing and Commitment to Staff Kansas Masonic Home cares about its residents and all of the staff that are employed here. Research shows that NFP communities hire more direct workers, provide better benefits packages, offer them more educational opportunities and evaluate their satisfaction more than the for-profit communities. This is what makes for great care and great caring.
Many studies have shown that not-for-profit
Stability
providers of assisted living and long term care
Long-term care involves creating lasting relationships. Kansas
communities offer a commitment to quality
Masonic Home has been around for over 120 years and will be here for many years to come. This stability gives families peace of mind.
that stems from a mission of service and a history of compassion. The quality is better and staffing ratios are also higher. 30 THE KANSAS MASON
Kansas Masonic Home is committed to all Masons and their families. Our not-for-profit commitment is always present and has been for 120 years and counting.
CANCER
SCREENING CLINIC
CALENDAR
Kansas Lodges that have been approved to have a Cancer Screening Clinic for the 2017-18 Fiscal Year: Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4/8/2017
Erie Lodge No. 76 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7/15/2017
Bestor G. Brown Lodge No. 433 . . . . . . . . . . 4/8/2017
Alta Vista Lodge No. 357 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/55/2017
Lafayette Lodge No. 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4/22/2017
Burlington Lodge No. 66 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/19/2017
Wamego Lodge No .75 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4/22/2017
Gardner Lodge No. 65 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/25/2017
Ellsworth Lodge No. 46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4/29/2017
Neosho Lodge No. 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9/2/2017
Paola Lodge No. 37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5/13/2017
Vulcan Lodge No. 229. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9/2/2017
Rosedale Lodge No. 333. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5/20/2017
Clinton Lodge No. 233 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9/9/2017
Stanley Lodge No. 444 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5/20/2017
Centre Lodge No. 147 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9/16/2017
Circleville Lodge No. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5/27/2017
Goodland Lodge No. 321 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9/23/2017
Great Bend Lodge No. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6/3/2017
Girard Lodge No. 93 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10/7/2017
Paradise Lodge No. 290 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6/10/2017
Prudence Lodge No. 100 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10/7/2017
Winfield Lodge No. 110 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6/17/2017
Ninnescah Lodge No. 230 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10/14/2017
Salina Lodge No. 60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6/24/2017
Anthem Lodge No. 284 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10/21/2017
Spring Hill Lodge No. 56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7/8/2017
North Star Lodge No. 168 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10/27/2017
Kansas Masonic Foundation offers
CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITIES Your Kansas Masonic Foundation has a charitable gift annuity program that has attractive rates and possible tax advantages. For many people, establishing a fixed income from a charitable gift annuity is a very attractive financial plannnig option.
RECEIVE THE BENEFITS OF Fixed lifetime income for up to two beneficiaries.
Satisfaction in supporting an area of KMF that is important to you. An immediate charitable income tax deduction. Reduced federal estate taxes.
Kansas Masonic Foundation, Inc. • 785-357-7646 • www.kansasmasonic.foundation
SUMMER 2017 31
KANSAS MASONIC FOUNDATION DIRECTORY Jon McConnell
(316) 243-5903
Jonathan W. McConnell Attorney At Law Wichita jon@jonathanwmcconnell.com www.jonathanwmcconnell.com
BORUM MACHINE SERVICES, INC.
CIGAR & TABAC, LTD.
Machinist
Anthony “Tony” Borum
Lyn Beyer cigarandtabacltd.com
Please Like www.facebook/borummachineservices
913-381-5597 or 1-800-359-0381 The sale of cigars, pipes, tobaccos and accessories.
MIDWEST HUNT FEST
Shawn Nielsen
Overland Park, KS.
midwesthuntfest.com
Kansas’ premier outdoor sportsman show
Anderson Machine & Supply John Noeller Machinist
(785) 668-2233 andmac@hometelco.net
Smolan, KS Machine Tool Parts Repair
COUNTERTOP & CABINET MFG Brent Taylor
ABDALLAH ESCORTS
www.ccmcountertops.com Countertops & Cabinets
Abdallah Shriners
REAL ESTATE SPECIALISTS
Ty Patton
Hugh Gill
Wichita
HINKLE LAW FIRM
Clearing The Way For Business www.hinklaw.com Von Kopfman
www.abdallah-shrine.org
McCurdyAuction.com
316-267-2000
Strategic Financial Concepts, Inc. Vance Burns Financial Advisor
(316) 617-7575 burns@SFCinc.net
Wichita www.SFCinc.net
(785) 272-1633
Blue Dot Services of Kansas HVAC - Plumbing Commercial - Residential - Drain Cleaning von@bluedotkansas.com www.bluedotkansas.com
BIG AL Cell (316) 706-6888
bigal@davis-moore.com
Allen Ceynar
Wichita
The Kansas Masonic Foundation Directory is a great way to connect with your Fraternal Brothers
ASKED AND ANSWERED on a professional level or to let Brothers know your business is here to help. continued fromKansas page 59 Masonic Call the
Foundation at (785) 357-7646 to get your business advertisement in future issues.
LISTING GOODS AND SERVICES FROM YOUR FELLOW BROTHERS THROUGHOUT KANSAS
EVENT CALENDAR April 29 Lodge and Library Dedication— Sharon Springs May 1 Band Camp Registration Submission Deadline
May 13 Lodge of The Full Moon— Coronado Heights, Lindsburg June 1 Kansas Masonic Lodge Newsletter Deadline
June 10 Degree—Crystal Springs July 25-29 Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp—Eldorado
*Check the Grand Lodge of Kansas Master Events Schedule on the Grand Lodge Website for Grand Master Visits Near You.
32 THE KANSAS MASON
August 20 Kansas Masons Day—Wichita November 3-4 Leadership Academy—Topeka
HELP
YOUR LODGE
by supporting this exciting program!
The Kansas Masonic Foundation is hosting a RAFFLE for a
‘56 FORD with
75% of the proceeds raised going directly to the Lodge treasury. This is an opportunity for you to “help out” your Lodge and support the Lodges charitable work in the community. The iconic Thunderbird is an extremely nice collector car! The exterior of the car is in beautiful condition! The paint and chrome have a beautiful shine. The interior is also amazing with the two-tone upholstery that looks very sharp! She is powered by a strong 312 V8 engine and an automatic transmission, both of which perform exceptionally well. Front to back, this is one outstanding Thunderbird that is ready to enjoy!
Drawing is on Saturday, – November 4, 2017 at Noon Capitol Plaza Hotel, Topeka, Kansas
20
$
per raffle ticket
AN ADDITIONAL $5,000 to the Lodge that sells the most Raffle Tickets $2,500 to the Lodge that is runner-up in selling the most Raffle Tickets and $1,000 to the Lodge that is third place in selling the most Raffle Tickets. This is on top of the 75% that the Lodge receives
for each Raffle Ticket Sold and will help the Lodge do even more charitable work in their local Community!
We are asking you to either sell or purchase tickets yourself, if you so desire.