Vol. XIII No. 3
George Washington 1776 Lodge #337 F&AM Trestle Board
May/June 2012
jelly for Feeding America. She also co-chaired the middle school's annual Jump Rope and Hoop for the American Heart Association. Schmid is the President of the Whitefish Bay Middle School Student Council, and he is also the Region IV Wisconsin Association of School Councils Junior High and Middle School President and State President. The Lodge donated $500 to each Amelia Windorski and Eric Schmid, Girl and Boy of the Year student's charity of choice. Windorski chose to donate to the American Cancer Society, and Schmid chose to donate to The main event of the evening, the Milwaukee Rescue Mission's Joy WHITEFISH BAY, WI During an evening of Irish food though, was an award honoring two House, which provides shelter for and dance, George Washington 1776 outstanding young people in the larger homeless women with children. Lodge honored two Whitefish Bay Middle Whitefish Bay community. The award of School students for their achievements, "Girl of the Year" went to Amelia and gave them each $500 to donate to Windorski, and "Boy of the Year" went to Eric Schmid. Both Schmid and Windorski their charity of choice. In the Surveyor In a celebration of youth at the are members of the Student Council at From the East . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Lodge, on the Spring Equinox, Tuesday, Whitefish Bay Middle School. Windorski serves as the Director 2012 Committees . . . . . . . . . 2 March 20, following St. Patrick’s Day, Master’s Calendar . . . . . . . . 3 Masons and guests from the community of Community Activities for the student From the West . . . . . . . . . . . 3 were treated to great Irish music and council, and she co-chaired the effort to Secretary’s Corner . . . . . . . . 4 dance by young dancers and musicians collect 5,128 pounds of peanut butter and Trustees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 from the Rince Nia Academy of Irish Dance The Human Touch . . . . . . . . 5 and Culture, who entertained the lodge Prime Directive . . . . . . . . . . 5 and its guests with reels and jigs. Masonic Education . . . . . . . 6-7 After the performance guests The Lodge Trustee . . . . . . . 7-8 retired to the dining hall for a fabulous 29 Years of Egg-cellence . . 8-9 all-you-can-eat buffet dinner of corned Our Little League Team . . . . 9 beef and cabbage, and shepherd’s pie, with My Cousin George . . . . . . . 10 all the trimmings. Masonic Anniversaries . . . . 11 During the dinner, presentations 2012 Officers Directory . . . 11 were made by representatives of all three Important Announcements 12 Masonic Youth Organizations; Job's Daughters, Wisconsin DeMolay and Rainbow for Girls in Wisconsin. Kendra Fox, of Rince Nia, dances a jig.
2
Vol. XIII No. 3 George Washington 1776 Lodge #337 F&AM Trestle Board May/June 2012
Worshipful Master Chuck Carroll
Reflect upon the work we have done and upon the work we have yet before us. The main purpose of any lodge is to make Masons. Whenever we plan and implement programs, we should have that purpose in mind. Consider the Youth Celebration in March, and the Easter Egg Hunt in April. Both of these events brought nonMasons from the community into our lodge where they had the opportunity to learn about Freemasonry. At the Youth Celebration, the teacher and advisor of the Boy and Girl of the Year told about how she and the children became interested in Masonry and researched the subject. Brother Chuck Roeder, acting in his capacity as a Past Master, gave me wonderful advice before the Easter Egg Hunt, including the idea to have Lodge brothers wear aprons, and to announce to the audience that they could direct inquiries about Freemasonry to those in the white aprons. Many brothers told me that they were indeed approached and asked questions about the craft. Another good event is Masonic Cinema Night. I’ve always thought that it was a good idea. But is there some way that we can develop a little more structure to the evening’s presentation, maybe some advertising, and share the experience with non-Masons who might be interested in the Craft? Could we perhaps gear the program to include the main purpose of making Masons? How would that be done? There are many reasons and many benefits to a Lodge making connections with the local community. The community benefits by being strengthened by the alliance with an organization based in the practice of moral principals and by cooperation in charitable endeavors. The lodge benefits, not by the temporary smugness of having done a good thing, but by gaining recognition as a part of the community, as an institution worth joining. And so it comes down to the main purpose of the Lodge. Br. Chuck Roeder is one of many Past Masters in the Lodge, and not the only one who has given me good advice this year. Brother George Burgess also whispered counsel in my ear and brought to my attention the MSA’s Mark Twain Award which recognizes lodges that develop plans and implement programs to connect with the community. Our
Lodge has applied for this award. Brother Burgess also showed me an article about how Lodges in other jurisdictions are experiencing significant success with open house programs where the lodge is open on a weekend afternoon for the public to tour and ask questions about the lodge’s history, place in the community, and Freemasonry in general. It’s ok to sit on the brow of a hill and rest and refresh ourselves, indulge in the fellowship that is our right and benefit, but eventually we have to get up and get back to work. I challenge all the Past Masters of our lodge, wherever you are, to grab the nearest acacia and hoist yourselves up from the comfort of retirement and offer your wisdom, experience, and good will to those younger, more inexperienced officers and brothers who are doing their best to implement the programs, projects and big ideas that we all proposed and agreed upon to tackle this year. We are a light in the darkness. Our efforts should make that light shine brighter, that good men may see it and find their way out of the dark. Each of us has a spark, which, when united, makes a flame. Shine on Brothers.
2012 Lodge Committee* Chairs
Lodge Projects Co-Chairs: Jim Roberts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 414-332-8247 tiler@gw1776.org William Hutchins . . 262-309-3500 seniorsteward@gw1776.org
Education, Entertainment & Social Events Co-Chairs: Otto Tesch . . . . . . . . . . . 414-445-3537 chaplain@gw1776.org Joe Fahrenkopf . . . . 920-296-3171 juniordeacon@gw1776.org Community Relations Co-Chairs: Frank Nuernberger . 414-357-8141 seniorwarden@gw1776.org Keith Sargeant . . . . . . . 414-881-7060 juniorwarden@1776.org
Publicity & Member Outreach Co-Chairs: Tyler Kristopeit . . . 608-346-0066 seniordeacon@gw1776.org Seth Swanson . . . . . . 408-315-9601 sswanson@digitaliris.com *Not sure which committee to join? That’s easy. It’s been decided for you. All members of GW1776 are members of each and every committee!
Vol. XIII No. 3 George Washington 1776 Lodge #337 F&AM Trestle Board May/June 2012
3
May 1, Tuesday, 6:00 p.m. Masonic Memorial for Br. Will Krohn at Bevsek Funeral Home in West Allis, 10210 W Lincoln Avenue. Visitation from 4-6pm. May 4, Friday, Special Communication Wisconsin 13 Annual Robert Ross Table Lodge BBQ. No ties, just bibs. $20 EAs, FCs, MMs. 4315 N. 92nd St., Tosa. Reservations: jeff.laven310@gmail.com or billygun67@yahoo.com May 13, Sunday, Mother’s Day May 15, Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. Stated Meeting 6:00 p.m. Light Catered Supper Reservations juniorwarden@gw1776.org May 17, Thursday, Stein Club at Sprecher May 28, Monday, Memorial Day Observed May 29, Tuesday, Masonic Cinema Night Join us on this 5th Tuesday as we watch a classic WWII film from Producer/Mason Daryl Zanuck, TWELVE O’CLOCK HIGH May 30, Wednesday, Memorial Day
June 1-2, Friday-Saturday, 168th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin, Madison Masonic Center, 301 Wisconsin Ave., Madison June 5, Tuesday, 7:00 p.m. Stated Meeting MM Degree for Br. Dan Sebring. 6:00 p.m. Light Catered Supper Reservations juniorwarden@gw1776.org June 14, Thursday, Flag Day June 15, Friday, Surveyor Deadline June 17, Sunday, Father’s Day June 19, Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. Stated Meeting. Visit from Jackson Lodge No. 146 of Seymour, Indiana 6:00 p.m. Light Catered Supper Reservations juniorwarden@gw1776.org June 20, Wednesday, Summer Solstice June 21, Thursday, Stein Club at Sprecher
From the West Five years ago our lodge began meeting on Monday nights to practice. We haven't become perfect, however, we have become relatively proficient in opening and closing the lodge, all degrees, and in parts for the three degrees. Regrettably, now only four or five officers show up regularly. Actually, this is a good time for learning more about our fraternity and a chance for fraternizing, strengthening our bonds. If you are a new Mason, this is an excellent chance to see behind the degrees. See what we went through to bring you your
Reminder–We go dark during July & August, but we still plan to be active during those months. Look for the July/August Surveyor for Summer tidings. degrees. And learn, so you can help others through their degrees. This is also the time to start officer training on your own. One of our aims is to take good men and make them better. You're already accepted as a good man. This is one way to become better. The "Blue Lodge" is the base of Masonry and all its connected programs; learning the officer positions will help you become better. Senior members: Come and relearn many of your vows. By assisting newer members you renew your vows of helping. Renew friendships and make new ones. Grand Lodge has started degree competitions. We went to Madison last year and competed in the Fellowcraft degree competition. As much fun as it was, we could have used backups. Join us on Monday nights for the fellowship and the learning.
4
Vol. XIII No. 3 George Washington 1776 Lodge #337 F&AM Trestle Board May/June 2012
Secretary's Corner We've had some really great events at Lodge recently and our officers - especially the Worshipful Master - should be heartily thanked for the hard work they've put in to ensure the success we've seen. I would also like to remind our brothers that the commemorative toasting cannons that were given out at the George Washington Dinner are now for sale for $7 a piece. If you would like to purchase a cannon, please ask an officer or contact the Secretary. We've listened to you and, thanks to the Lodge Improvement Survey that was handed out late last year, we know that many of you want a more functional Secretary's office in the building. We would like to add a computer and some functional furniture to the space. If any brother has, or has leads to, any gently used office furniture or equipment that could be donated, please call at (414) 979-1776 or email secretary@gw1776.org. Thank you for your assistance with this project! We are in the process of putting together the Lodge Directory. If you have made recent changes to any of your contact information (address, phone, email), please call (414) 979-1776 or email the changes to secretary@gw1776.org. Thank you for your help! Tyler Kristopeit Assistant Secretary
Vol. XIII No.3 ©2012 George Washington 1776 Lodge #337 F&AM Trestle Board A Bi-Monthly Periodical Established July, 2000 Chuck Carroll, Editor in Chief Barb Carroll, Proof Reader Contributors: Chuck Carroll; Richard Marcus, PM; Frank Nuernberger, PM; Tyler Kristopeit; Barb Carroll; and special thanks to The Easter Bunny Photographers: Chuck Carroll; Kristin Anthony The Surveyor is printed & mailed by Central File Inc., Br. Dan Chaudoir, President. Payment for printing is donated directly to the George Washington Masonic Fund. Silver Spring Masonic Center 517 E. Beaumont Avenue Whitefish Bay, WI 53217
Toasting Cannons for Sale Br. Tyler Kristopeit has designed a unique Lodge Logo which is being now p r e s e n t e d o n new Toasting Cannons. The cannons are $7.00 each and can be purchased from the Lodge. To get your own toasting cannon contact one of the Lodge Officers or email: secretary@gw1776.org.
Deadline for submissions for the next issue of The Surveyor: Friday, June 15, 2012
New Lodge Phone Number (414) 979-1776
For Information about the Mandatory Monthly Trustee Meetings Contact: secretary@gw1776.org
Vol. XIII No. 3 George Washington 1776 Lodge #337 F&AM Trestle Board May/June 2012
5
I slip back outside and soon the children emerge with happy smiles and anticipation. They are directed to wait at the ropes for the countdown. I can see they are tingling with excitement. And they are off! In about ten minutes every one of the nearly 2600 eggs have been found. The children then turn back to find me. They take my paw, pat me, touch my fuzzy ears, wave at me, show me their eggs, some even offer to share their eggs. They are reluctant to leave, in spite of having won their prizes. They want this experience to continue. I love them and they love me. They know who I am; I am the Easter Bunny.
I’ll admit it; I love children. I love their innocence and wisdom. I love their unbridled enthusiasm and tentative approach. I love their broad grins and shy smiles. I even love their reluctance and tears. But mostly I love the sheer joy on their faces when I meet them. I am the Easter Bunny. They believe it; they know it. Every year when the George Washington Masonic Lodge holds its Easter Egg Hunt, I am invited to greet the children who attend and make sure the littlest ones don’t go away empty-handed. I see them as they arrive with parents, grandparents, or older siblings, ready with baskets to collect the chocolate-filled Easter Eggs. They know they are coming to have fun, but once they see me waving and welcoming them, it becomes truly special. Some run to greet me with a hug. Others willingly shake my paw or give me a high five. Still others seek the safety of Mom or Dad and need a little time and encouragement before I come near. But they all want to see and be seen with me. They all want to have their pictures taken with me.
WHITEFISH BAY, WI
I invite them to enter the lodge to be entertained by a wondrous magic show and meet a clown who makes animals from balloons. Most of the children gleefully enter, but a few remain outside to be near me or their parents or to look over the grounds, spotting the eggs they intend to gather. I too want to see the magic performance, but so many children, big and little, are there that I can’t get close enough to see. I’m just a little bunny, after all. But I can see some of their faces, rapt with amazement and wonder.
Brother Daniel Kleinhans was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on Wednesday, March 14, 2012. This was the first Master Mason degree ever conferred by Worshipful Master Chuck Carroll, who has conferred Entered Apprentices and Fellowcrafts as a Junior Warden and Senior Warden. Besides the usual cast of GW1776 Lodge Members, help came from Br. Tom Stachowiak, Junior Warden of Damascus Lodge and Br. Frank Mayer, District 12 Lecturer. Brother Kleinhans said he is looking forward to finally being allowed to attend stated meetings. The lodge is looking forward to him becoming an active brother in the business of the lodge. A special thanks goes to Past Master Walt Smith who, as counselor, has taken his duties very seriously and has been working diligently to prepare brothers for posting. Degrees to be conferred in the near future include Brother Dan Sebring’s Master Mason degree on June 5th, and Brother Ryan Augustin’s Fellowcraft Degree. Watch for those degrees to be announced in lodge.
6
Vol. XIII No. 3 George Washington 1776 Lodge #337 F&AM Trestle Board May/June 2012
by Richard D. Marcus, PM I. Heroic Fortitude Fortitude is a quality of courage that is best understood by contemplating those who have displayed heroic fortitude. President George Washington and the signers of the Declaration of Independence showed their willingness to risk their property and their lives for freedom. Emmanuel Leutze's painting of Washington Crossing the Delaware on the Day Before the Battle of Trenton, 26th December 1776 illustrates a leader with abundant fortitude. On that December night, General Washington's whole demeanor is a study in fortitude. Throughout the long days at Valley Forge, Washington demonstrated a Masonic virtue that time and patience will accomplish all things. His persistence, single-mindedness, and bravery embodied heroic fortitude. Great leaders are true to their ideals. They persist even in trouble and show their courage when most needed. Our First President is a model for fortitude in action. II. Seven Moral Principles The EA degree introduces candidates to seven moral principles, which we group into three tenets and four Cardinal Virtues. The tenets are brotherly love, relief, and truth. These tenets are key to any organization, but especially to our fraternity. Relief is practiced through our Masonic charities as an expression of brotherly love. If we are to become better men, we seek truth and enlightenment. These tenets are supplemented with four Cardinal Virtues of temperance, fortitude, prudence, and justice. The idea of four Cardinal Virtues comes from Plato. 'Cardinal' is derived from the Latin word cardo, which is a hinge on which a thing turns. All moral virtues hinge on these four virtues. Plato writes in The Laws, (Book I, 631): "Wisdom is the chief and leader: next follows temperance; and from the union of these two with courage springs justice." Our present-day four Cardinal Virtues map directly into Plato's quartet with wisdom (or Sophia) being associated with prudence, courage with fortitude, and the other two being kept intact. Although all seven moral principles deserve our full consideration, let us concentrate on fortitude. Fortitude is a virtue to which we aspire. Perhaps we should assess where we currently stand in terms of having fortitude. Social scientists use questionnaires to measure beliefs, attributes, and preferences. To measure our response to the statement,"I have fortitude," they would use a seven-point Likert scale. What number from 1 (lowest) to 7 (highest) do you give yourself using the following scale? 1-----------2-----------3-----------4-----------5------------6------------7 Very Strongly Disagree.......Neutral..............Very Strongly Agree
To be a better man, we would want to improve in several dimensions: fortitude is just one dimension. The image of a limited
amount of fortitude is inappropriate, as we have untapped fortitude that only becomes necessary in times of great trial. Nevertheless, we may find ourselves saying we are only a "4" or a "5" on the scale of having fortitude. It should be one of our goals to achieve a greater reservoir of fortitude for when we will need it. III. Why Fortitude and Not Other Virtues? Fortitude is clearly an important virtue, but we may well ask why this moral principle was included in the four Cardinal Virtues and not others? There are many valuable moral principles in life. Some biblical virtues include compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, patience, righteousness, and long-suffering. Biblical virtues are often viewed as gifts or fruits given to us. Fortitude is not listed as a gift of the Spirit; indeed fortitude does not appear in the Bible at all. On deeper introspection, it appears that some virtues are learnable and capable of being improved. As we seek to become better men, fortitude is a manly virtue that we should work to inculcate. It is not given as an inherent quality, but one that a lifetime of practice can perfect. IV. Cardinal Virtues Symbolized Masonry uses visual symbols to teach moral principles. The square and compasses are the most prominent Masonic visual symbol. But the four Cardinal Virtues are sometimes illustrated in human form.
Temperance.........Fortitude...........Prudence...........Justice
The four figures, at first glance, appear to be goddesses or Muses. But, as with most symbols, careful examination reveals hidden truths. Beginning at the far right figure, we see Justice with two key symbols. Justice holds a scale. The scale assures fairness in all actions. In the marketplace, a businessman gives fair value and a true accounting. But resting by her side is Justice's sword. Injustice should meet swift and sure punishment. To the left of Justice is Prudence. She displays several complex symbols. Prudence wears a helmet, which crowns her as being wise. Wisdom and prudence are associated: we are also to be wise. Her helmet further is seen as a mask with eye openings. A wise person uses prudence in secrets that have been given us. At her feet is a bush, which Masons would recognize as an Acacia. Acacia reminds us of our own mortality and our being raised as Master Masons. Prudence further wraps her outer garment around her to encourage us to practice prudence with others.
Vol. XIII No. 3 George Washington 1776 Lodge #337 F&AM Trestle Board May/June 2012 On the extreme left stands Temperance. She pours a measured amount of refreshment into a cup. It may be water or wine, but her careful attention displays temperance, reserve, and moderation. Temperance provides a balance to the more dynamic virtue of fortitude. The second figure from the left is Fortitude. On quick analysis, she seems to be rather vain as she examines herself in a golden mirror. The mirror, however, is itself a symbol. Vampires allegedly cannot see their reflection in a mirror as they have no souls. But we see ourselves in the mirror. We know who we are. We learn to reflect on ourselves: Will we have sufficient fortitude when calamity strikes? Around her waist is tied a black cinch to hold her garments together. Should Fortitude need to travel, she is prepared for action. She will not be held back to secure other garments. In her arm, Fortitude nestles a staff from which new leaves of an almond tree are budding. This recalls the Book of Numbers, Chapter 17, wherein Aaron's rod miraculously blossomed as evidence that God chose him as High Priest. As the wand of leadership, Fortitude is holding the same symbol that Kings and Queens hold as scepters and a College Marshall holds during Commencement as the college mace. Lodge officers similarly wield rods and wands as symbols of leadership. We see that fortitude is essential for true leadership. Without fortitude, no one can succeed. Life sometimes gets difficult. There is always the temptation to give in or to give up. When we show fortitude, we learn to "stick it out" and overcome obstacles to accomplish goals. V. The Strength of Heart and Mind The organ most associated with fortitude is the heart. We realize, of course, that courage or fortitude must reside in the brain. Nevertheless, the heart is viewed classically as the seat of courage, determination, and fortitude. The heart beats faster when adrenaline races through the blood system. Our faces flush in the danger-flight response. But those with fortitude do not flinch. They persevere in the face of danger. To a lesser extent, the mind is also associated with fortitude. The mind can be fickle; it wanders, prevaricates, or rationalizes lies and cowardice. A man with fortitude masters his fickle mind. He stands for truth and does not suffer his own cowardice lightly. He enters his future bravely, whatever that future holds. A door is functional as well as symbolic. We open doors to gain entrance to dwellings or symbolically to our future. We close doors to keep some things safe or private. An EA candidate must decide by his own free will to enter the Lodge through a door. After entering, fortitude is associated with the first point of our entrance. Fortitude teaches Masons to have the strength of heart and mind to persevere in all noble endeavors. VI. What Fortitude Achieves* Fortitude is an earnest enthusiasm that is disciplined by reason and ennobled by sincerity. It is a dynamic quality that is essential for all great achievement. Men with fortitude reject temerity and timidity. They have courage to match their convictions. They inspire confidence, invite action, and generate progress. Temperance, prudence and justice lose much of their effectiveness without the driving force of fortitude. The greatest achievements of man are tributes to the blending of these virtues.
7
When we practice fortitude in little ways we will be better able to call up great fortitude when we most need it. By standing firm for truth and growing in courage, we will also be improving in fortitude. As we achieve greater fortitude, we become better men. Growth in fortitude fosters leadership roles for us in our homes and workplaces. We become leaders who embody heroic fortitude in good times and in bad. Let us demonstrate our courage and fortitude so that our actions match our convictions. __________________
*The National Scholastic Honorary Society in Business, Beta Gamma Sigma, presents three lectures on honor, wisdom, and earnestness. The lectures are derived from Plato. Some of the language from the speech on earnestness has been adapted for this section on what fortitude achieves.
by Br. Tyler Kristopeit
This is the second of more articles to come, on topics that were discussed at the 2012 Statewide Secretary’s Seminar, attended by our Senior Deacon and Assistant Secretary. –Ed. Much like our National Government, in our Masonic "government" we find ourselves electing officers each November. Virtually all Masons have a basic understanding of the functions of many of the officers we elect. For instance, we know that the Worshipful Master is the leader of our Lodge and, as such, we do our best to elect a man who has the experience and the leadership qualities to equal the challenge he will face during his year in office. And while we may not be financial experts ourselves, we are well aware of the fact that the Treasurer handles the Lodge's financial affairs and that our Treasurer should be well versed in such matters. However, when compared to offices such as these, the position of Lodge Trustee is to many a "Masonic Man of Mystery". I will attempt to shed some light on this important elected office in our Lodge. Perhaps a reason many of us are unsure of what a Trustee does is because a Trustee is not a Masonic Officer and, as such, its functions are not repetitiously announced at the opening of the Lodge. Trustees are, in fact, statutory officers and their position is mostly regulated by the State of Wisconsin - not the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin. In this regard, trustees are required by state law to be residents of our State and, unlike other positions in the fraternity such as the Worshipful Master or Secretary, can resign as a Trustee or as a Mason at any time. They also can simultaneously hold any position in the Lodge - whether appointed or elected. They cannot be removed, unless by trial (which is done in accordance with State and Masonic Law). They are required to meet monthly (or even more frequently if special conditions arise)
8
Vol. XIII No. 3 George Washington 1776 Lodge #337 F&AM Trestle Board May/June 2012
So what exactly do the trustees do? Well, in short, they handle the physical and financial matters that the Lodge and State Law delegate to them. They may hold custody, on behalf of the Lodge, of all bonds, obligations, and securities. They are charged with the care and upkeep of our building, and making all of the necessary preparations in that regard. Trustees are allowed to make contracts, leases, and agreements as authorized by the Lodge. Finally, they must make an annual report to the Lodge regarding their affairs, in addition to filing a yearly inventory report with the Secretary that lists all of the property of the lodge. The Trustees are also expected make financial recommendations to the Lodge. On the contrary, what actions are impermissible for the trustees? First and foremost, it is illegal for the Trustees to purchase, sell, lease, or mortgage any real property. They have absolutely no authority to pay any bills incurred. They are also not allowed to purchase, sell, invest, lend, borrow, or pledge any personal property worth more than $5,000. Further, they are not allowed to participate in any litigation that could determine the rights of the Lodge. All of these powers are reserved for the Lodge and the sole decision in these matters rests with the Lodge. All of the decisions and advice the trustees provide to the Lodge must be governed by the "prudent man rule". This dictates that they must care for and invest the Lodge's assets while considering (a) the needs of the Lodge, (b) the amount needed to preserve the trust, and (c) the amount and regularity of our Lodge income. Trustees, as you see, are very useful Brothers who play an important "behind the scenes" role in our collective Masonic Life. If you have a chance, be sure to thank our current Trustees for all the work they do for us. I'm sure they would appreciate the gratitude and any input you could provide as they complete the important work that has been laid upon their trestleboard.
transferred out of the area, and the bakery chosen to replace him couldn’t provide them with such short notice. The guy I was told used to provide the hay, told me that he wasn’t the guy who used to provide hay. The brother who usually supplied the candy suddenly said he wouldn’t be supplying the candy. When I called the Tripoli Shrine to invite the clowns I was told I called too late, and everybody forgot to invite the ladies of the lodge to fill eggs! We were doomed! I made some phone calls and got word out to the brothers to bring their ladies to lodge to fill the eggs. Barb and I went to Sam’s Club and after straining our brains with higher math, came up with enough candy to fill a couple of thousand eggs. Brother Tyler Kristopeit put together a flyer and got it to me in time to print copies, laminate them, and get them to Brother Jim Roberts (aka Jim Bavlinka) and his little grand daughter Sophia to post around the lodge and along Silver Spring Drive. The ladies filled 2,585 plastic eggs with chocolates! At the last minute, the Five Tiger Generals and Counsel of Great Faithful Excellent Ones (ages 8-12) from the Whitefish Bay Kung Fu Club decided to donate enough cookies for 150 kids, and I got a good deal on hay at Minor’s! The hunt was on!
by Chuck Carroll It started off pretty well. The committee members had everything under control. Months before this year’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt, duties were assigned and volunteers set things in motion for this to be the biggest and best ever. There would be new signs made, permanent ones that would last for years; someone was assigned the task of getting the candy, the cookies, the hay, and the volunteers to fill the plastic eggs. The lodge was a-buzz with activity and anticipation. Then it all fell apart. Less than a week before the event, we found out that the signs couldn’t be made in time because the company that was supplying them picked up an order from a paying client that bumped our project from the schedule. Just before that, we discovered that our usual source for cookies got
Chuckles the Clown delights little Audrey Swanson with a pink balloon poodle
Saturday morning came and as I was hooking up the trailer full of hay bales, I got a phone call from some clown who wanted to know if he could bring his daughter to the Easter Egg Hunt. I said, “Of course, the more the merrier.” He then told me, “Well then, I’ll put on my face paint and we’ll see you around ten o’clock.” We had a clown!
Vol. XIII No. 3 George Washington 1776 Lodge #337 F&AM Trestle Board May/June 2012
About the only thing that went without a hitch was the breakfast for volunteers. Spearheaded by Past Master Otto Tesch, with help from Junior Warden Keith Sargeant,
9
As the children arrived they were greeted by the Easter Bunny who directed them to the Magic show while brothers from the lodge scattered the eggs and covered them with hay. Chuckles the Clown made colorful balloon animals and swords and really entertained the kids. After the Magic show, the kids got down to the real business of gathering eggs. That job took about five minutes! Go online to www.GW1776.org to see more pictures from the Easter Egg Hunt!
Visitors filled the lodge for Br. Walt’s Magic Show
a wonderful spread of pancakes and sausages, apples and tangerines, orange juice, milk and strong coffee greeted the men and women who showed up at eight in the morning to set up the event. There was great fellowship and joy during breakfast and everyone found work to do to get ready for the hordes of children yet to arrive. Out front, Feeding America provided barrels to collect non-perishable food donations. We weren’t sure what kind of turn-out to expect, since we didn’t get the fliers out as early as we usually do. But thanks to Brother Tyler
This year, as part of our Community Outreach, the lodge is sponsoring a Little League Team in the North Shore. The team selected will wear our logo on the backs of their team jerseys and we can attend their games and root for them to win! Glendale Little League in Glendale, Wisconsin, is a chartered member of Little League International, with participants from Glendale, River Hills, Bayside, and Fox Point Wisconsin. Over 380 players from ages 6 through 13 participate in 4 divisions. The Junior Division includes players ages 13 &14, the Majors Division ages 11& 12, the Minors Division ages 9 & 10, and the Rookie Division ages 6, 7, & 8. Sponsoring a Little League Team is an idea that was submitted by our Junior Warden, Br. Keith Sargeant, when the program surveys went around last Summer. Br. Keith will be organizing trips to the games and has talked about dragging a grill along to cook up hot dogs for the team afterwards. Our team is called the Rays and competes in the Rookie Division which is ages 6-8. All their games are played at 1401 W. Civic Drive, Glendale, WI 53209, either on the West or East Fields, on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays in May and June. Here is our team’s schedule for this year: May 5 Saturday, Rays-Brewers 9:00AM Glendale West May 6 Sunday, Indians-Rays 1:30PM Glendale East May 12 Saturday, Rays-Pirates 11:00AM Glendale East May 13 Sunday, Reds-Rays 1:30PM Glendale West May 19 Saturday, Rays-Astros 9:00AM Glendale West May 20 Sunday, Diamond Backs-Rays 11:30AM Glendale West
Volunteer Jim Sorrel picks up food & cash donations from the Easter Egg Hunt
Kristopeit’s extraordinary publicity skills, kids with moms and dads in tow began to stream in until the lodge was filled to over-capacity. There wasn’t even standing room for some who ended up missing the fabulous Magic performance by our own talented Past Master of prestidigitation, Brother Walt Smith.
June 1 Friday, Rays-Mariners 5:45PM Glendale West June 2 Saturday, Rays-Yanks 11:00AM Glendale West June 8 Friday, Angels-Rays 5:45PM Glendale West June 10 Sunday, Brewers-Rays 11:30AM Glendale West June 19 Saturday, Rays-Reds 9:00AM Glendale West June 17 Sunday, Pirates-Rays 1:30PM Glendale West June 23 Saturday, Rays-Yanks 11:00AM Glendale East June 24 Sunday, Astros-Rays 1:30PM Glendale West Let’s get out there and support our team! GO RAYS!
10
Vol. XIII No. 3 George Washington 1776 Lodge #337 F&AM Trestle Board May/June 2012
by Chuck Carroll
George Washington and the Paparazzi On February 21st, our lodge celebrated the 280th birthday of George Washington by hosting a table lodge of seven courses and seven beers. This year, the National Archives celebrated the event by releasing a short video documentary called, “George Washington and the Paparazzi,” which can be viewed on YouTube at this link: http://tiny.cc/GWPaparazzi. The story concerns a painting, a copy of which hangs in our lodge room, for which Washington did not want to sit. It would appear that the painter, William Joseph Williams, approached the president with a letter of introduction from Washington’s friend, Virginia Governor Henry Lee. Washington, however, was fed up with sitting for painters, having sat for at least a dozen portraits during the eight years prior. More than that, he felt that these painters were taking advantage of people by mass producing the images, “& that badly,” and selling them for profit, much the same way paparazzi today sell celebrity photos to the highest bidder.
Original Pastel Portrait from Life by William Williams, Philadelphia, September 1794
It wasn’t until Washington received assurance from the Alexandria Lodge No. 22 in Virginia, where he had been its first Worshipful Master, that the painting would be displayed only at that lodge and not be reproduced, that the Commander-in-Chief agreed to the sitting. He posed as Past Master of the Virginia lodge but it is obvious, from his expression, that he did not enjoy posing for the portrait. The following is a transcript from Washington’s letter to Governor Henry Lee, in reply to Lee’s letter to introduce the artist: Your letter of the 20th was presented to me yesterday by Mr. Williams – who, as a professional man, may or may not be, for aught I know, a luminary of the first magnitude. But to be frank, and I hope you will not be displeased with me for being so, I am so heartily tired of the attendance which from one cause or another, has been given to these people, that it is now more than two years since I have resolved to sit no more for any of them. I have since adhered to it, except in instance when it has been requested by public bodies, or for a practical purpose (not of the painter’s) – & could not, without offence, be refused. I have been led to make this resolution for another reason besides the irksomeness of sitting, & the time I lose by it, which is, that these productions have, in my estimation, been made use of as a sort of tax on individuals by being engraved (& that badly) and hawked about or advertised for sale.
Washington’s letter to Henry Lee
Vol. XIII No. 3 George Washington 1776 Lodge #337 F&AM Trestle Board May/June 2012
11
MASONIC ANNIVERSARIES AT OUR LODGE During the months of May and June, we honor the following Brothers for their listed years of service as Master Masons.
BIRTHDAYS Under 25 Years 3 Years Brian Bromberek 3 Years Tyler Kristopeit 3 Years Keith Sargeant 5 Years Will Cekosh 11 Years Joseph Davenport 17 Years Robert Batchelder 19 Years Gary Van Deluyster 22 Years Robert Weigend, Jr 23 Years William Dreher
25-55 Years 26 Years Michael Flannery 27 Years Gary Shaw 27 Years Mark Krueger 31 Years Roger Zemlicka 31 Years David Bowen 40 Years George Gamouras 41 Years Frederick Weyher 43 Years George Mussotter 45 Years Clarence Held 52 Years Eugene Olson 52 Years Byron Connerton 52 Years Horace Palmer 52 Years H Krueger
55 Years and More 56 Years Fred Lewis 59 Years Orland Johnson, Jr 60 Years Jerry Thompson 61 Years Henry Hofmann 63 Years Herbert Steinbock 63 Years Richard Eichstedt
Congratulations Brothers!
Worshipful Master Charles Carroll 414-336-4252 worshipfulmaster@gw1776.org
Secretary Dave Haase, PM (414) 979-1776 secretary@gw1776.org
Senior Steward William Hutchins 262-309-3500 seniorsteward@gw1776.org
Senior Warden Frank Nuernberger, PM 414-357-8141 seniorwarden@gw1776.org
Senior Deacon Tyler Kristopeit 608-346-0066 seniordeacon@gw1776.org
Junior Steward Brian Bromberek 414-467-8377 juniorsteward@gw1776.org
Junior Warden Keith Sargeant 414-881-7060 juniorwarden@1776.org
Junior Deacon Joseph Fahrenkopf 920-296-3171 juniordeacon@gw1776.org
Counselor Walt Smith, PM 414-906-1695 counselor@gw1776.org
Treasurer Charles Roeder, PM 262-238-0162 treasurer@gw1776.org
Chaplain Otto Tesch, PM 414-445-3537 chaplain@gw1776.org
Tiler James Roberts, PM 414-332-8247 tiler@gw1776.org
May Birthdays May 03 Parker R Shriver May 06 Peter J Enge May 13 Benjamin M Checota May 16 Bernard C Einsiedel May 16 Gene H Schaber May 17 Neal R Hadfield May 17 Gary L. Shaw May 19 Leo S. Shirvanian May 23 Harry A Batchelder Jr May 28 Curt A Claus, Jr May 31 James Elton Brown June Birthdays June 01 Mark B Truesdell June 01 Seth D Swanson June 01 Brian M Bomberek June 08 Joseph M Corcoran June 11 David Oscar Braeger June 12 Laurel Arthur Koepsell June 15 Robert L Sieghardt June 17 Wayne John Hamilton June 18 Malcolm W Schelong June 18 Arthur F. Rosenow III June 20 Christopher M Bell June 24 Daniel R Chaudoir, Sr June 27 George Papageorge June 27 Daniel Paul Sebring June 29 Thomas P Bosch June 30 George G Gamouras
Got a story for
? Deadline for the July/August 2012 issue is Friday, June 15, 2012. Submit by email to: surveyor@gw1776.org ****New Policy**** All submissions must be in digital format or neatly typed. Handwritten materials will no longer be accepted for publication. Questions? Call the editor, Chuck Carroll 414-336-4252
12
Vol. XIII No. 3 George Washington 1776 Lodge #337 F&AM Trestle Board May/June 2012
12
Vol. XIII No. 3 George Washington 1776 Lodge #337 F&AM Trestle Board May/June 2012
The Master of the Lodge has canceled the Stated Meeting for Tuesday, May 1st so that the lodge may attend the Masonic Memorial for Br. Will Krohn at Bevsek Funeral Home in West The Master of the Lodge has canceled the Stated Meeting Allis, 10210 W Lincoln Avenue. The visitation will be from 4-6pm for Tuesday, May 1st so that the lodge may attend the Masonic with Masonic Services at 6pm and a brief religious service to Memorial for Br. Will Krohn at Bevsek Funeral Home in West follow. Allis, 10210 W Lincoln Avenue. The visitation will be from 4-6pm with Masonic Services at 6pm and a brief religious service to follow. We have the honor of hosting Jackson Lodge No. 146 from Seymour, Indiana on our last stated meeting before we go dark. June 19th will be an historical evening, this being the first such visit We have the honor of hosting Jackson Lodge No. 146 from by an entire lodge from a foreign jurisdiction! We look forward to Seymour, Indiana on our last stated meeting before we go dark. the opportunity of fellowship with great anticipation. June 19th will be an historical evening, this being the first such visit by an entire lodge from a foreign jurisdiction! We look forward to We areofplanning a family outing to a Brewers Game in the opportunity fellowship with great anticipation. June. If you are interested in coming along, contact Br. Joe Fahrenkopf at 920-296-3171 or juniordeacon@gw1776.org and let We are planning a family outing to a Brewers Game in him know how many. June. If you are interested in coming along, contact Br. Joe Fahrenkopf at 920-296-3171 or juniordeacon@gw1776.org and let him know how many.
Don’t forget the Annual Communication in Madison is up June 1st - 2nd and all Master Masons are invited! If you coming are planning to attend, you will need to start making plans now. Don’t forget the Annual Communication in Madison is Call WM Chuck Carroll 414-336-4252 or coming up June 1st - 2nd and all Master Masons are invited! If you worshipfulmaster@gw1776.org and let him know if you are are planning to attend, you will need to start making plans now. planning to go. Meal tickets must be ordered in advance. Call WM Chuck Carroll 414-336-4252 or The lodge has made provisions to cover certain costs and worshipfulmaster@gw1776.org and let him know if you are in some cases will offer reimbursements of certain expenses. The planning to go. Meal tickets must be ordered in advance. event is always an incredible opportunity to meet Masons from all The lodge has made provisions to cover certain costs and over Wisconsin and even other jurisdictions as well as learn the in some cases will offer reimbursements of certain expenses. The inner workings of our Grand Lodge. event is always an incredible opportunity to meet Masons from all The Installation of the Grand Lodge Officers will be on the over Wisconsin andst even other jurisdictions as well as learn the evening of June 1 , followed by a banquet. Ladies are also inner workings of our Grand Lodge. welcome. While they cannot attend the meeting, arrangements have The Installation of the Grand Lodge Officers will be on the been made for them to enjoy a luncheon and tour which is always evening of June 1st, followed by a banquet. Ladies are also a big hit. welcome. While they cannot attend the meeting, arrangements have been made for them to enjoy a luncheon and tour which is always a big hit.
Lodge Web Site: WWW.GW1776.ORG New Lodge Phone Number: 414-979-1776 Lodge Web Site: WWW.GW1776.ORG New Lodge Phone Number: 414-979-1776 U.S. POSTAGE PAID Milwaukee, WI Permit No. 5434
PRSRT STD