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Volume 52 No. 1
WINTER 2006
Official Publication of the Grand Lodge of Missouri A.F.&A.M.
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON Official Publication of the Grand Lodge of Missouri
VOL. 52 NO. 1
©
WINTER 2006
Published and copyrighted under the direction of the Committee on Masonic Publications
CONTENTS 3 4 6 7 8 9 9 11 12 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 23 28
Grand Master’s Message Biographies Freemasonry & Christianity The Old Lecturer RWB Randy Berger Selected as Senior Grand Marshal The Book That Saved Part Of Our Past Thomas F. Riddick Grand Master - 1821 Statement of Ownership Rainbow Article Grand Lodge Collage Lodge on the Move Submission Guidelines The Masonic Home of Missouri Grand Lodge 185th Annual Communication 4th Annual “Leaves of Autumn” Golf Outing Masonic Home of Missouri Children’s Outreach Program Masonic Service Awards The Work of our Craft
Committee on Masonic Publications M. Robert Berger, Grand Master Bruce R. Austin, Deputy Grand Master Rocky E. Weaver, Senior Grand Warden Larry C. Reynolds, Junior Grand Warden Ronald D. Miller, Grand Secretary E. Otha Wingo Steven L. Harrison, Editor, Chairman Ex-Officio Member Steven L. Harrison, Editor, THE MISSOURI FREEMASON Editor Steven L. Harrison P.O. Box 1120 Kearney, MO 64060-1120 816-628-6562 / Call for Fax editor@momason.org
Please note the change of address for the Missouri Freemason:
P.O. Box 1120, Kearney, MO 64060-1120 2 Winter 2006
FROM THE EDITOR’S KEYBOARD I told you so. Freemasonry and religion is a topic that sparks a lot of interest, as did Brother Roy Gilkey's article in the Fall Edition of the Missouri Freemason. As a follow up, Brother Lewis C. Odneal has written another interesting and thoughtful article about the subject and his experiences as a Christian minister and Freemason. As usual, the Masonic Home continues with many exciting activities including the twenty-five year celebration it held earlier this month. In addition to that, we've heard from a man who lived in the Masonic Home many years ago. He tells us about a Masonic Home movie made at the time in which his brother was a "star." He'd like our help finding the Movie and the Masonic Home itself would like to find it. Check out his interesting letter and then check out your attics, basements and especially lodge storage areas and let's see if we can dig up a copy of the film. And speaking of historic finds, I met Brother Bob Stolzberg from, Polar Star-Rose Hill Lodge #79 at Grand Lodge. He loaned me a century old book which contains a biography and woodcut picture of every Grand Master, Grand Secretary and Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge of Missouri from its inception through 1900. What a treasure. The book is a great resource and possibly the only source of some of the history of the early years of this Grand Lodge. Grand Lodge was a rich source of information and feedback about the Missouri Freemason. We talked to several brothers who had excellent suggestions and ideas. On a personal level, I had a chance to meet people who have been very supportive and contributors whom I have worked closely with, but never met. Most notably, I finally had the opportunity to meet Dr. E. Otha Wingo, the assistant editor of this publication, who also regularly contributes the back page article. While you're at it, check out RWB Otha's article on... what was it about again... Oh, yeah. An Aid To Memory. We prepared a set of Missouri Freemason article submission guidelines for continues page 13 The Missouri Freemason (USPS 573-920) is the official publication of the Grand Lodge, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Missouri, and is published four times yearly. Articles to be considered for publication should be submitted to The Missouri Freemason, P.O. Box 1120, Kearney, MO 64060-1120, not later than the first day of the month preceding publication in February, May, August, and November. Unless otherwise indicated, the views expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or policy of the Grand Lodge A.F.&A.M. of Missouri. The Editor reserves the right due to limitations of space, to accept, reject, subedit and rearrange material submitted for publication.
SUBSCRIPTIONS: The Missouri Freemason is mailed to every member of this Masonic Jurisdiction without charge. Domestic subscriptions elsewhere are $8.00 annually.
OFFICE OF PUBLICATIONS: Grand Lodge of Missouri, 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite B, Columbia, MO 65202-6535. Printed by Tribune Publishing Co., Columbia, Missouri. Periodicals Postage paid at Columbia, Missouri.
PLEASE, contact your Lodge Secretary with your address change so that the Grand Lodge can then be notified. GRAND LODGE OF MISSOURI GRAND LODGE OF MISSOURI INTERNET ADDRESSES E-Mail to the Grand Lodge Office grlodge@momason.org The Grand Lodge web page www.momason.org Phone: 573-474-8561
POSTMASTER: Please send Address Forms 3579 to Grand Secretary, 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite B, Columbia, MO 65202-6535.
PERMISSION TO REPRINT: All recognized Masonic publications have permission to reprint original articles from The Missouri Freemason with credit to the author and the publication. CHANGE OF ADDRESS (Important): Whenever a member changes his mailing address without notifying his Lodge Secretary and a mailing of the Freemason magazine occurs, the Post Office charges the Grand Lodge 75¢ per undeliverable Freemason.
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
Brother Brother Robert Robert Berger, Berger, Grand Grand Master Master
My Brethren, It is truly an honor to have been elected Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Missouri. I wish each one of you had the opportunity to stand there and feel as humble as I did. I make this promise to you—I will devote this year to bringing Masonry to the general public. We have already successfully completed all area meetings. The message I have this year is nothing new. I have heard since I came into the Masonry that we are the bestkept secret in the world. We, the Masonic Fraternity, donate three million dollars a day to charity; however, we receive very little “bang for our buck”--very little notoriety for the hard work done by our fraternity. Well, the key word this year is Recognition—it is time we were recognized as Mason’s for the work we do. We now have arguably the finest program in the history of our Grand Lodge; the Chip Program. We have
contact Rt.Wo.Bro. Nick Cichielo at the Grand Lodge office and he will set up a program for you. As you heard at Grand Lodge this year from MWB. Nation’s, this is the third straight year that our numbers are rising. That we definitely have turned the corner, thanks to our C2A Classes. I hope with our chip program that we will have more petitions than in the last three years combined. I hope to see and meet as many of you as possible at our Area Meeting’s and if you have problems or questions, let us hear from you. Fraternally, Robert Berger this past weekend identified nearly 600 children in Maryville, Missouri, with over 65 programs scheduled so far this year. What a great way to have the public identify Masonry with children. Brethren, take part in this great program have your lodge
continued from back page memory returned and I knew that it had not totally failed me. However, two strange results were noticed for weeks afterwards. In explaining Greek grammar, I used numerous examples, which I wrote on the chalkboard. I noticed that there was a slight gap in my mind when I tried to recall an exact example of the Greek form I was explaining. The pause was not long enough to be noticed by the students, but I knew it. The other was even stranger. I would think of a word and write it on the chalkboard; but the word I wrote was not the one I was thinking. All this cleared up after a few months. About ten years later I was once again facing major surgery. Remembering what had happened before, I was determined to offset the residual memory problems brought on by anaesthesia. I determined to start memorizing Masonic Ritual as soon as I felt physically able to do so. I chose to memorize the ritual for the Sub-3 Certificate, viz. every word and every movement in opening the lodge on all three degrees, partial closing, and closing. As I worked on memorizing, my mind and memory were cleared of the residual dullness brought on by the anaesthesia. Thus, I was able to pass the examination and earn THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
Grand Master
the Sub-3 card. Recently, I had occasion to test my plan with a good friend, who had endured long periods of surgery with anaesthesia. He mentioned that his recovery was slow and that he was particularly bothered by the effect on his memory. I told him of my experience and urged him to work on his degree work, in which he was proficient before the surgery. As I listened, he recited the work perfectly, and I noticed only brief hesitations before some phrases. From the beginning, the act of memorizing or reviewing previously memorized work was clearly a help in overcoming the effects of anaesthesia. Learning the Masonic ritual exactly and knowing it well enough to present it naturally and meaningfully will have beneficial results both for the lodge in doing the best degree work, and for the brother doing the ritual, for it enhances and strengthens his mind and keeps his memory sharp. I will give one suggestion from Quintilian (Inst.Or.XI.ii.33): Practice memory work aloud, “so that the memory may derive assistance from the double effort of speaking and listening.” Dr. E. Otha Wingo, DDGL 38 otha@wingo.org Winter 2006 3
M. ROBERT BERGER - GRAND MASTER -
Most Worshipful Brother M. Robert Berger was born in St. Louis on October 29, 1938. He attended the Clayton School System, graduating from Clayton High School in 1957. He attended the University of Missouri for one year and transferred to Washington University where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree. He is a member of Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity. MWB Berger went into his family business, Industrial Sewing Machines and since 1982, has been
President and CEO of the Corporation. He joined the United States Coast Guard in its 6-8 program as a seaman and mustered out as a Lt. J.G. MWB Berger began his Masonic career in 1969 when he was initiated an entered Apprentice in St. Louis Lodge No. 20. He served as Master of that Lodge in 1976. St. Louis Lodge #20 merged with Missouri Commonwealth Lodge and Bob took membership in Benjamin Franklin Lodge #642. He has been a faithful member there, having missed but a handful of meeting’s in the last 30 years. He served as District Deputy Grand Master in 1990. MWB Bob is very active in the Scottish Rite, Valley of St. Louis, having served as Commander of the Council of Kadosh. He was honored with the Knight Commander of the Court of Honor in 1993, and the 33rd Degree Inspector General (Honorary) in 1997. He was President of the Cathedral Preservation Committee as well as special events. His first love
is the Scottish Rite Foundation of Missouri, where he is Chairman, and is on the Scholarship Committee as well as Benevolent Committee. MWB Berger is a Royal Arch Mason, Cryptic Mason, belongs to the Square Club, National Sojourners, Heroes of ’76, Allied Masonic Degrees, Missouri Lodge of Research, Moolah Shriner and DeMolay Legion of Honor. He has served our Grand Lodge before, as Grand Chaplain for three years, as Grand Sword Bearer, a member of the Long Range Planning Committee of three years, Distinguished Guest Committee twice, scholarship committee, as well as member of the Board of Directors of the Masonic Home of Missouri. Bob married the former Barbara Goldman on October 18, 1964. They have three children, Jeri Shadrich, Robin Diamond and their son Randy. Randy is currently the Senior Grand Marshall of the Grand Lodge of Missouri.
LARRY C. REYNOLDS - JUNIOR GRAND WARDEN -
Larry C. Reynolds was born 1/13/45 in Gainesville, Mo., attended public schools there, graduating High School in 1963. He moved to Springfield, Mo. where he was employed by the Ozark News Agency until volun-
4 Winter 2006
teering for the Armed Services in 1965. He served 3 years in the US Army, obtaining the rank of SP5-E5, before his discharge in 1968. While in the Army he spent 1 year in Viet Nam, and the remainder of his enlistment at various Bases in the U.S. During this time, he married in 1966, and he and his wife, Bettie, have one Daughter, Deanna, Son-in-law, Shannon Riebold, and Grand Son, Austin. After discharge from the army, he was employed by Kraft Foods in Springfield, where he retired after over 32 years of service. While with Kraft Foods, he attended SMSU, majoring in Business Adminstration.
He and Bettie are members of First Babtist Church in Rogersville, Mo. His Masonic career began in Gainesville, Mo. in 1969. He was initiated in April 1969, passed in May, and raised to the Degree of Master Mason in June, 1969. He transferred to Henderson Lodge # 477, in 1971, becoming Worshipful Master in 1985, and again in 2000-01. He has served several Grand Masters as a Grand Officer, and also on several committees, including Scholarship, Long Range Planning, and Masonic Education, being appointed Chairman of the Masonic Education Comcontinues page 10 THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
JON BROYLES - JUNIOR GRAND STEWARD Jon Blake Broyles was born February 29, 1960 in Kirksville, Missouri where he attended school, graduating from Kirksville RIII High School in 1978. He graduated from Northeast Missouri State University (Truman State University) in 1982 with a B.S. in Mathematics and Computer Science. He is a member of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Kirksville. He has served the church as a Deacon and parent in the LOGOS youth program. He is now a resident of Ballwin (St. Louis area). He works in the information technology field, specializing in IT management and networking. RWB Broyles married Anna Spalding of Kirksville in 1981. They have three children; Maria, Alexa, and Sara. RWB Broyles’ Masonic career began with his initiation in Adair Lodge No. 366, Kirksville. He was initiated on October 9, 1990, passed on November 27, 1990 and raised on December 26, 1990. He held positions in the advancing line for four years and was Senior Warden when he relocated to St. Louis in 1995. He took dual membership in Rose Hill Lodge No. 550 (now Polar Star-Rose Hill No. 79), where he served as Worshipful Master in 1996-1997 and his lodge received the Grand Lodge Achievement award. RWB Broyles became an Endowed Life Member in 1998. RWB Broyles is a member of the Rose Hill Masonic Temple Association Board of Directors and served as President and as Treasurer. He was a founding member of Cornerstones – Active Masons Club where he served on the Executive Committee and as Assistant Treasurer. He is a member of the Wardens and Masters Clubs and served as Secretary/Treasurer 1999-2006. RWB Broyles has held Ritual Proficiency Cards Subdivisions I and III. He created the first Grand Lodge Internet Web Site and served as its Webmaster from its inception in 1996 to 1999. He served on the Committee on Masonic EducaTHE MISSOURI FREEMASON
tion, Associate member 1994-1997, Regular member (filling Ronald D. Miller’s position) 1997-1999, and Chairman 1998-1999. He served as District Deputy Grand Master of the 61st District, Division B 1997-98 and as Chairman, District Lodge of Instruction 1997-98, on the Committee on College Lodges 2004-2005, and currently on the Masonic Youth Committee. He has served on the Missouri Grand Master's Annual Breakfast Committee since 2002. He was Conference Planning Chairman for the Midwest Conference on Masonic Education in 1998. He is a member of the Missouri Lodge of Research, joining in 1993 and was appointed to the advancing line in 1998 by Zelwin Eaton, and currently is serving as Senior Warden. He is a member of St. Louis Chapter #22 of the National Sojourners since 2005. RWB Broyles is a member of the Kirksville York Rite Bodies 1991Caldwell Chapter No. 53, R.A.M., Kirksville Council No. 44, Cryptic Masons and Ely Commandery No., 22, K.T. He is a member of the Valley of St. Louis, Orient of Missouri, S.R.S.J. since 1996 and was appointed to the Consistory line in1998 and was elected to serve as Venerable Master this year. He served as the 29th Degree Captain since 2003, on the Library committee since 1998, IT coordinator since 2004 and received the Knight Commander Court of Honor in 2005. He is a member of Knights of St. Andrew, Valley of St. Louis and was organizing officer and Chairman in 2004 and Privy Council member in 2005. He is a member of Moila Temple, St. Joseph, Missouri, A.A.O.N.M.S. since 1991. He was a member of the El Kadir Shrine Association and Club 1991-1995, and served on the board as Secretary and Treasurer. He is a member of Moolah Temple, St. Louis, Missouri, A.A.O.N.M.S. since 2001. He is a member of the Highlanders (Bagpipe
& Drum) Unit since 2001 and was President 2004. He became a member of the DeMolay Youth Committee in 2005. He has served as the Associate Bethel Guardian Bethel No. 44, I.O.J.D. of Ballwin; Finance Committee and Fraternal Relations of Bethel No. 4, I.O.J.D. of Creve Coeur; and currently serves as Associate Bethel Guardian of Bethel No. 32, I.O.J.D. of Bridgeton; and was Associate Grand Bethel Guardian in 2003-2004 for the Grand Bethel of Missouri, I.O.J.D. RWB Broyles is a chapter adviser and co-chairman for Perfection Chapter DeMolay, serves on the DeMolay Eastern Region Athletics committee, an Area Governor for Missouri DeMolay and received the Legion of Honor – Honorary in 2005 from the International Order of DeMolay. He is a member of Rose Hill Chapter No. 120, Order of the Eastern Star since 2002 and has served as Worthy Patron in 2004. RWB Broyles’ family is also active in Masonic organizations, where all three of his daughters have served as Honored Queen of Bethel No. 4 of Job’s Daughters and his wife Anna has served as the Bethel Guardian there. Anna and daughter Maria are also members of Rose Hill Chapter No. 120, Order of the Eastern Star. Anna is also a member of Sydyk Temple No. 107, Daughters of the Nile.
continues page 7 Winter 2006 5
FREEMASONRY & CHRISTIANITY by Lewis C. Odneal I was reared in a small central Missouri town with a Southern Baptist and a Methodist Church and a very prominent Masonic Lodge and Eastern Star Chapter. Some of the most prominent Men and Women belonged to each of these organizations. I was attracted to Freemasonry because my Great Uncle was a member of the Lodge,and I looked up to him because he was the Postmaster and Sunday School Superintendent at the Methodist Church where my family attended Church every Sunday. I was further attracted to the Lodge because its meetings were held in the same two story building in which the Grade School was housed. In our room there was a glass paneled door that led to the stairway up to the Lodge room.. We boys wanted to know what was in that upstairs room but were constantly warned against going there. All of this is to say that I grew up with a positive attitude toward Freemasonry. Nor was there any evident animosity toward it in the Community so I never had to deal with questions as to its validity or importance to the community. We always wondered what it was all about because no one ever said anything about it and we were never asked to join, so I just, pretty much, gave it little thought. My profession was a Clergy in the United Methodist Church. I always had Masons in my Churches but no one said anything about me joining. I had plenty of meetings to attend so I was not looking for another. I had another concern regarding the Masons. I would hear talk of how good a Church Member a Mason would be if he were true to his Obligation, whatever that was. However I did not find the Masons in my Churches any better members than anybody else. In fact if they had a church meeting and a lodge meeting on the same night they would go to Lodge, so I didn't see any advantage in spending my time and money with them. Later in life, with more maturity and experience in the Church I discovered that church members were no more faithful to their vows than Freemasons were, so I reconsidered and was Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason in Fellowship Lodge #345, Joplin, Mo. in March, 1969. I have never found anything in Freemasonry that conflicts with my religious beliefs or the practice of my faith. Quite the opposite, I have become acquainted with much material in the Bible through I have become acquainted with Freemasonry that never caught my attention in all my study of the much material in the Bible through Bible. Upon checking our ritual with the Bible I find it to be quite accuFreemasonry that never caught my rate. It is amazing how we have dramatized many of the stories. We attention in all my study of the must realize that our Christian Faith grew out of a Judeo background Bible. and the Old Testament is very important to our Faith. It is also very important to realize that Jesus had not been born when King Solomon ruled in Israel. This should explain why our Masonic work that deals with those Old Testament times could not be Christian in Nature. I think The Church and Freemasonry have a common challenge today. We both need to clean up our act. Too many are not true to their Vows and the rest of the world is getting a false impression of our true commitments. I will not particularize these problems for I am sure we are all very aware of them. I will mention one. It is that of our personal support. More to the point I am speaking of our attendance at meetings and our support of programs. Nothing sends a more potent message than the personal commitment to the purposes and goals of an organization than the support of its members. I believe in Freemasonry. I find no conflict in any of its teachings with my faith or my understanding of the Bible. I enjoy our Ritual and find it most revealing in its presentation of our dramatization of great moments and occasions in Bible History. There is a lot of concern out there in the world as to what we believe. More books have been written recently about us than at any other time in History. We can be our own worst enemy or our greatest deliverer. The future is in our hands. We have a calling. We have a message. A lot of good men believe in the Message. A lot of good men are working hard to deliver the Message I intend to be one of them. I invite you to join me.
“
Notice ~ Schools of Instruction December 30, 2006, 9:00AM* Temple Gate Lodge #299 Kansas City, Missouri
January 20, 2007 9:00AM Barbee Lodge #217 Sweet Springs, Missouri
February 10, 2007 9:00AM Lexington Lodge #149 Lexington, Missouri
March 24, 2007 9:00AM* Cass Lodge #147 Harrisonville, Missouri
*Grand Lecturer will instruct • Michael F. Armstrong, RGL, Region C
6 Winter 2006
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
THE OLD LECTURER By Douglas H. Reece, PDDGL The crisp autumn morning was giving way to the warmth of the sun peeking through the trees as the old lecturer sat contemplating the labors of years gone by. Occasions of past degree work filled his thoughts and especially those of the seventies and early eighties, a time when Masonic pride was still at its meridian height and when lodges were filled to almost overflowing. The unwritten list to an advancing line of officers within a lodge was determined by neither the merit of the individual or his political endeavors nor the favorite friend of someone; a time when Masonic discipline contained the highest degree of respect for Right Worshipfuls and Worshipful Brothers. Each and every Past Master of a lodge was “Cordially and Fraternally” invited to a seat in the East as a sign of respect; although some lodges still practice this today. He remembers the coats and ties of proper attire when performing degree work as an emblem of sincere respect to the candidate. Today, he accepts the business casual dress but, still has a problem with blue jeans, tennis shoes and shorts. Schools of Instruction included lessons of morality as well as proper execution of the ritual in all its forms. The lecturers chosen for a specific district were chosen not only by their ritual merit but also by their maturity, communication ability, desire and passion of the Fraternity, and most especially could they convey the passion of lessons contained within the ritual. In some areas they were more respected than the District Deputy Grand Master because there were fewer of them and they were not changed every couple of years. Theirs was almost a lifelong commitment to the craft. Today it is different. Being a district lecturer is not a coveted position as it once was. The romanticism and passion for ritual by the brethren is almost gone. He is viewed in some districts as the “Ritual Police”. Finding someone who will carry the torch of knowledge to the next generation of Masons is an exhausting task. But who will answer the challenge? Who will assume the responsibility of imparting the knowledge and wisdom inspired within our ritual? Have we forgotten what the lessons point to? Most of the good lecturers he spoke with in the past confessed that they did not learn the lessons of life inspired by our ritual until they started memorizing parts and participating in the initiations. As most sat in church listening to the pastor preach they realized where the lessons came from with an “AHA” moment in their spirit. A – “So that’s what it means” moment.
continued from page 5 Jon Broyles At the 184th Communication of the Grand Lodge of Missouri held in Columbia, Missouri on September 26 and 27, 2005, RWB Broyles was appointed to the position of
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
The old lecturer realized and tried to teach that the knowledge of yesteryear was just as important today as it was then, in fact more so today; considering the condition of the moral state of the world. The younger generation seems, as he reflects, caught up with technological knowledge, what does it do for me today type knowledge, and is it fun at the moment. Never realizing that the most fun they will ever have in life is being an influence on someone else’s life. To be able to impart the Great Moral Lessons of our Fraternity to a brother which will cause him to implore those “truly Masonic virtues” – “Silence and Circumspection” and through that reflection change his life for the better, is one of the greatest rewards we can experience here on earth. As the aroma of his coffee swirls through his senses he asks himself, “Have I helped change or influence one brother’s life?” “I pray and hope so.” Editor's Note: RWB Doug is at home recuperating from a fall and reports he is doing well.
Senior Grand Marshal of the Grand Lodge advancing officer line by MWB John M. Nations, and is currently serving the Grand Lodge as Junior Grand Steward.
Winter 2006 7
GRAND LODGE STAFF HONORED
Each member of the Grand Lodge staff received a lapel pin and service award containing the number of years service, as well as the grateful thanks of the members of the fraternity. Pictured (l to r) are Amy Tripi (13 years), Adriene Green (4 years), Becky Stumpf (18 years), Nancy Weiner (5 years), Christi Casey (2 years) and Sandy Clark (7 years). The staff members, in turn, thanked the Brethren for all of their support and help throughout the years and look forward to continue serving the membership in the future. They further thanked the Past Grand Masters that have served as the leaders of this organization and the ones to come for their dedication and support in the workings of Masonry. Last but not least they thanked our current Grand Master and Grand Secretary for everything they continue to do for Masonry within Missouri and extending outside to other Jurisdictions.
RWB RANDY BERGER SELECTED AS SENIOR GRAND MARSHAL The Grand Master selected RWB Randy Berger as the newest member of the Grand Lodge of Missouri advancing grand line officer in October. The full text of his appointment message to the brethren appears below. When I was asked to go in the Grand Lodge advancing Line, I was also informed the most important decision I will ever make is my choice of the person I chose to be put in line. I did a lot of soul searching when I decided on Randy. I feel he is arguably the most active Mason in the St. Louis area. He was born in 1969. Graduated from Parkway North High School in 1987. Graduated from St. Louis College of Pharmacy in 1992. He has experience beyond his years. Interloch Pharmacy, a long-term care pharmacy, employed him. He managed Hart Food and Drug and currently manages Williams Pharmacy. Randy was raised in Ben Franklin Lodge #642 in 1992. He was appointed Jr. Deacon in 1993 and went thru the chairs until he became Master in 1997. He earned the GL achievement award. M.W. Bro. Steven I. Toybes appointed Randy as DDGM in 1998. In 2003, M.W. Bro. Stanley Thompson appointed him as Grand Orator. 8 Winter 2006
Since then he has served on the Long Range Planning Committee, Reception of Distinguished Guests Committee and College Lodge Committee. In the Scottish Rite he served as Commander of the Council of Kadosh. Received the Knights Commander of the Court of Honor in 1999. He headed up the 23rd Degree until the new Ritual went into effect. In 2005 he received the honorary Inspector General or 33rd Degree. He served as President of the S.R. Preservation Association. He is past president of the Wardens and Masters Club. He was a founding member of the cornerstones. Member of the GM Breakfast Committee In the York Rite he is member of Keystone Chapter RAM A cryptic Mason Member of Allied Masonic Degrees DeMolay Legion of Honor In 1998 Randy took dual membership with Rose Hill Lodge #550, and was on the merger Committee with Polar Star #79. He had the hon-
or of being elected as the 1st Master of those 2 lodges and helped lead them to five percent membership award as well as a Truman Honor Lodge. Randy is out almost every night, helping lodges with degree work. He resides in Clayton, Missouri; has 2 sisters, Jeri and Robin and six nieces and nephews. If there is anyone in the room unaware of the fact—I present, my son, Randall Marc Berger as the next Senior Grand Marshall.
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
MILLER R-2 USES DONATED BUILDING FOR PRESCHOOL The Miller School district now uses the former Miller Lodge building as a preschool. The building was a gift from Miller Lodge #567, the Eastern Star and others.
Cornerstone of the original Miller Lodge building which the Miller School now uses as a preschool building.
THE BOOK THAT SAVED PART OF OUR PAST
Worshipful Brother Ed Carrington of Mt. Vernon reports that Miller Lodge #567 and Miller Eastern Star Chapter #27, both now dissolved, should be recognized for giving the Miller R-2 School District their Lodge Building built in 1981. Donations from Lodge members, Eastern Star members and a few non-members made the gift possible. The Miller Friends, Inc. owned the building, after the Miller Lodge disbanded. It was put up for sale with whatever proceeds it brought to be divided up among the stockholders. The Miller School was interested, but didn't have funds so after a time with no buyers The Miller Friends, Inc. decided to donate it to the school to be used to its best advantage. According to WB Carrington, the members of Miller Lodge #567 held many happy meetings in the building when it served as the Lodge hall. WB Carrington recently visited the building. He discovered the school is using it for its preschool building, and the teachers were well pleased to have it. He was favorably impressed with its use. He, along with the Missouri Freemason and Grand Lodge, feels the former members of Miller Lodge, Eastern Star and The Miller Friends deserve recognition for their generosity.
THOMAS F. RIDDICK GRAND MASTER-1821
MOST WORSHIPFUL, BROTHER THOMAS FIVEASH I have been doing research and writing long enough to RIDDICK was the first Grand Master of the Grand Lodge remember when composing a research article meant hours of Missouri. He, with others, who will in this connection in a library digging out material, taking notes, and orgareceive due mention, met in St. Louis April 23, 1821, and nizing it all on 3x5 cards before the first word ever went effected an organizaonto a piece of paper. The same task today is much less tion. The following time consuming. The Internet cuts research time and the day, April 24,Brother computer makes note organization a much more manageRiddick was elected able task. But even back then we had grand libraries with Grand Master. The seemingly endless information and historical documents installation cereat our disposal. monies took place At the end of the nineteenth century, the Grand Lodge May 4, 1821, Brothof Missouri realized much of its undocumented history er Thompson Douwas slipping away. By that time, the Grand Lodge had glas, of Missouri been around for nearly eighty years. A lot of the knowlLodge No. 12, in edge about those who had served the lodge and, which charge. In accormight have been previously been handed down verbally, dance with the Bywas fading away. So the Grand Lodge assigned three Laws adopted by the brothers, John D. Vincil, Alan McDowell, and William F. Grand Body, the Kuhn, the task of compiling a book which would contain term ended at the a biography and picture of every Grand Master, Grand SecAnnual Communicaretary and Grand Treasurer up to that time, eighty biogration in October. phies in all. Brother Riddick Imagine the task that lay before these three brethren. was born at Suffolk, They didn't just 'Google' these names, nor did they go to county seat of the library and start jotting down information. They had Nansemond County, to go to town halls for records, talk to family members of Both articles continue on next page. THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
Winter 2006 9
continued from previous page The Book That Saved Part Of Our Past
continued from previous page Thomas F. Riddick Grand Master-1821
long deceased brothers or others who knew them. They had to dig through attics for old paintings, some of which were in terrible condition. After three years of grueling work the brothers and their assistants completed the task and in 1901, published the book, Biographies and Engravings of Grand Masters, Grand Treasurers and Grand Secretaries of The Grand Lode of Missouri, From 1821 to 1900, Inclusive. It is not a stretch to believe these brothers, in compiling this book, saved a lot of the history of the Grand Lodge of Missouri which might otherwise by today be completely and hopelessly lost. Now, over a century later, we wonder what has happened to all the copies of the book. No doubt many have been lost. No doubt also, many more probably lie in attics rotting like the paintings the authors searched for long ago. We do know the Missouri Lodge of Research has at least one copy, but not too many people know about the book. Then along came Brother Bob Stolzberg of Polar Star–Rose Hill Lodge #79. This industrious brother found the book on eBay recently, endured a bidding war and made an investment in order to own a copy. He loaned it to the Missouri Freemason and we are most grateful. It's a valuable piece of Missouri Masonic history. We doubt we will print all the biographies (at one bio per issue, that would take a generation), but we may print some of the more interesting ones from time to time and we may also condense some of it. In the meantime, we have printed the biography of Most Worshipful Brother Thomas Fiveash Riddick, the first Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, in this edition of the magazine. Amazingly, after all of their hard work, the brothers who wrote the book were disappointed in its outcome. They wrote in the epilogue: "In several cases the engravings made were from defaced paintings and faded photographs, rendering satisfactory pictures for the work an impossibility. The most difficult part of our work has been to secure facts respecting those whose Masonic history we desired to prepare. Going over a period of eighty years, looking up dates and searching for light to guide us in forming a history of those long since gone to the undiscovered land, has been a tedious and laborious task, which required an examination of many thousand pages. These were not rich with information, as they contained but little to reward our efforts. Closing up the duty imposed, we feel that in this respect the work is far from satisfactory." Brothers, we beg to differ. Editor
Virginia, June 5, 1781. He came to St. Louis in 1803. We have no means of ascertaining when or where he became a Mason, except that in the charter issued to St. Louis Lodge No. 111, dated September 15, 1808, Brother Riddick was Senior Warden. At the organization of the Grand Lodge in April, 1821, he appeared, representing Joachim Lodge No. 25, at Hereulaneum, Missouri. In March, 1805, He was appointed by the President as Clerk of the Courts of Common Pleas, Quarter Session, and Oyer and Terminer for the District of St. Louis. Two years later was reappointed, also held the office of Assessor of Rates and Levies, including the township of St. Louis. On May 7, 1808, he was appointed by the Acting Governor, Recorder of Land Titles, with a provision that in his absence his deputy should act. Reappointment to all of the positions followed in 1812, and again in 1815. He was elected a Representative in the State Legislature in 1818. When the old Territorial Bank of Missouri was chartered, he was one of the first Board of Directors, and in 1820 became President. For twenty years he was actively engaged in business. He subsequently moved to Sulphur Springs, in Jefferson County, Missouri, where he resided until his death, January 15, 1830.
10 Winter 2006
www.momason.org
continued from page 4 Larry C. Reynolds mittee by Most Wor. Bro. Glenn Means. In 1988, M. W. Bro. Bob Jenkins, appointed him DDGM of his district, where he served for 6 years. John Siscel, in 1998, tapped him for the Advancing Line for the Missouri Lodge of Research. He is also a member of the National Sojourners # 63 Kansas City, Mo. and Old Glory Camp, Heros of 76. He is a member of Scottish Rite, Valley of Joplin, where he works in the 9th, 10th, and 11th degrees, also works in the 15th degree, and is Director of the 13th degree, being awarded the Knight Commander Court of Honer (KCCH), in 2001. He serves on the Valley of Joplin's Board for their Speech and Hearing Clinic. He is also very active in Abou-Ben-Adhem Shrine where he is a member of several units and clubs, including Marching Patrol and The Ritual Cast. Both he and Bettie are Twenty Five yr. Members of the Order Of Eastern Star of Missouri. His hobbies include Reading, Fishing, Hunting, and riding his ATV.
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
ARARAT TRIBE OF MIC-O-SAY MEMBERS CONFER FIRST DEGREE By Corey Huntsucker On September 23, 2006, on what we thought was going to be a gloomy Saturday, but turned out to be a gorFront row: RWB Bob Green, MWB Glenn Means, WB Steve Tomkins, geous Fall day, the Tribesmen Shrine Club of Ararat Shrine RWB Mike Armstrong, RWB Dave Coburn, WB Joe Heilig, Bro. Peter Center with the support of many other well informed Tuttle (candidate), RWB Don Gilkerson, WB Corey Huntsucker, Bro. Skip Gordon, WB Richard Floyd. Back row: Bros. Vic Walters, Harry brethren traveled to the H. Roe Bartle Scout Reservation in Marshall, Hale Lentz, Ed Stark, Butch Pugh, WB Lee Ross, Bro. Neil Iconium, MO to confer a first degree in White Bear CounCowan, WB Randy Ogan, Bro. Hank Bedsaul, cil ring wearing (most of us) tribal regalia. The Tribesmen Shrine Club is made up of Shrine/Masons who are also members of the Tribe of Mic-o-say, an honorary camping program exclusive to the Bartle Reservation and Camp Geiger in St. Joseph, MO. The Tribe of Mic-o-say was founded by H. Roe Bartle, who was a Mason, to teach young men good character and encourage them to return to the reservation. Many Masonic elements are seen throughout a boy’s three steps towards becoming a warrior. The Heart of America Council has had the highest percentage, throughout the United States, of boys achieve their Eagle Rank and many attribute that to the Tribe. The purpose of this particular degree conferral is to encourage young men 18-21 to continue to follow in Bartle’s, as well as other prominent scouters from the reservation, footsteps by becoming Masons and to bring young men of excellent character into Masonry. I would like to extend my gratitude to MWB John M. Nations and Scout Executive Tim Buggs for allowing us to perform this degree. And a special thank you to all the Masons who made this degree possible. Hope I don’t miss anyone.
STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
Winter 2006 11
After June’s Grand Assembly…with hardly time to unpack/repack…I found my wardrobe (with me trailing a step or two behind) headed for Rainbow’s biennial, international convention/celebration. With a motto of “Failure is NOT an Option!” and a theme entitled “Share the Vision, the Power of One,” Dorothy Brillhart, the 20042006 Supreme Worthy Advisor welcomed us to this wonderful gathering. Approximately 1,800 delegates from all over the world attended--Missouri registered 72 delegates and we ranked #6 in total number of delegates. I was honored to serve as the Supreme Page to the Acting Supreme Worthy Advisor. We had two young women in the Supreme Choir, Brianne Sisco of Republic and Elizabeth Silvey of Piedmont and, incidentally, the Choir was often accompanied by our Supreme Deputy, Catherine Dent. At Sunday afternoon’s Supreme Banquet, our guest speaker was Jennifer Berry, the current Miss America. She is a very warm and caring individual, so her beauty is far more than skin deep. She spoke for about 20 minutes, stressing goals and her platform this year of drunk driving and MADD. “To obtain your goals you may fail, not just once or twice, but 3, 4 and 5 times before you achieve,” just as she did when she tried to win Miss Oklahoma. On her 6th try, she was crowned Miss Oklahoma and then Miss America. She was awe-inspiring and we listened to every word. She stayed for the entire Banquet…and when she left the room, the group was entertained by Ty England for a “Rainbow Homecoming Celebration!” What a wonderful time this was!! On Monday morning, Missouri competed for the first time in Supreme Assembly’s Ritualistic Competition. PGWA Jennifer Lash is Missouri’s Ritualistic Team Captain and she assembled a terrific group to be part of the Bow team and/or part of the Opening/Closing team—both competed in closed (no visitors!) rooms. In the individual ritualistic competition, Elizabeth Jester of North Kansas City competed in the Intermediate group (ages 14-18). Always a crowd pleaser, skits from jurisdictions are done. These are a fun way to inform everyone what has been going on in their state during the past two years, or what the state is known for. The State of Missouri skit was presented by Lindsey James of St. Louis #3. Lindsey wore a Cardinals baseball uniform with the name “Musial” on the back, representing baseball Hall of Famer Stan Musial. Lindsey did an outstanding job telling about Missouri and we all stood with pride as she recited her skit. On Tuesday, following lunch there was a piano prelude by our own Catherine. During the afternoon session, Past Grand Worthy Advisors were introduced and we were delighted to have four PGWAs attending: Jill Royce Tatum, Shelley Freeman Wears, Sarah Freeman 12 Winter 2006
Odom and Jennifer Lash. Tuesday night the Ritual Competition Awards were given out. We GOT 3rd place in the Bow Team award and WE ARE THRILLED! Our Ritualistic Teams consisted of the following people: Bow Team: Love – Brianne Sisco (Republic) Religion – Sara Estes (Columbia) Nature – Elaine Hines (Rolla) Immortality – Elizabeth Silvey (Piedmont) Fidelity – Ami Jester (North Kansas City) Patriotism – Amanda Fisher (Pulaski County) Service – Kristyn Sample (Columbia) Worthy Advisor – Dava Mentis (Rolla) Faith – Elizabeth Jester (North Kansas City) Candidate – Evalyne McInnish (Republic) Opening/Closing Team: Worthy Advisor – Dava Mentis (Rolla) Worthy Associate Advisor – Samantha Stutzman (Harrisonville) Charity – Elizabeth Jester (North Kansas City) Hope – Lindsey James (St. Louis) Faith – Kristyn Sample (Columbia) Chaplain – Sara Estes (Columbia) Drill Leader – Amanda Fisher (Pulaski County) Confidential Observer – Elizabeth Silvey (Piedmont) Outer Observer – Evalyne McInnish (Republic) Musician – Brianne Sisco (Republic) Choir Director – Ami Jester (North Kansas City) Mother Advisor – Kim Best (Harrisonville) The Cavalcade of Flags is really a delight and this year Missouri was represented by Dava Mentis of Rolla who wore a long red formal with white tennis shoes! Believe me: this wasn't a simple little flag drill--these girls twirled, danced, and all-out splendidly performed! And now for the best news EVER!: Our Supreme Deputy, Catherine Dent, was selected as one of five new SUPREME INSPECTORS. We haven’t had a Supreme Inspector since 1992. Jeanne Mueller was our Supreme Inspector, as well as Supreme Patriotism. She was too ill to attend Supreme Assembly in 1994 and died in early September of that year. **Catherine, we are so very proud of you and what you have accomplished in Missouri Rainbow the past eight years!!** Catherine was installed with the new Officers, new Inspectors and new Deputies. Mrs. Marie Renda of THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
Illinois is the new 2006-2008 Supreme Worthy Advisor. Her theme is “Serve Rainbow with a Smile,” her symbol is the smiley face, her flower is the violet, and her colors are violet and gold. Mrs. Renda has chosen two service projects: Service to Rainbow and the Rainbow Temple Maintenance. We look forward to seeing her preside in 2008 in downtown Chicago. It seemed like only days (because it was!) upon returning from Oklahoma that I met with my Grand Officers and Mother Advisors (plus one other Assembly adult was invited) in Salem, Missouri for a working (but some playing!) weekend retreat. We began the weekend getting beautified. The next morning the girls separated from the adults—each group having its own long list of topics. Manners, our Missouri Rainbow future, scrapbook making, membership, youth protection issues, scholarship availability, advertising sales, cleaning out/up paraphernalia, leadership, ritual changes…the list of topics covered by one or both groups was absolutely amazing (what I've listed is only a few!). Together we played BUNKO on Saturday night and then had another opportunity to get beautified. The food was outstanding, Salem’s Holiday Inn Express was wonderful and we look forward to trying this again in the future. The next weekend I attended the Masonic Youth Day in Columbia, Missouri. Games, food and heat—what a combination! I’m proud of all the Rainbow Girls who supported this hot August event. My Missouri Rainbow “thanks” to all those who made this day a tremendous success for the DeMolay, Job’s Daughters and “my” Rainbow Girls.
My first official visit as Grand Worthy Advisor was held in Mexico, Missouri. We sent out information to come “country” and everything from farm hand apparel to Country Music TV duds were worn and admired. My second visit was held in Lamar, Missouri. This was the second and final “casual” clothing visit and I adored all the fun shoes that made an appearance. After a brief “inside” visit, we traveled across the highway to Lamar’s City Park where kite flying was attempted along with consumption of hot dogs, hamburgers and loads of extras. I continue to receive many donations to the State Dean’s and my State Service Project: the Make a Wish Foundation. We’ve already received many supplies as well as monetary donations. I can’t wait to tell you how this turns out after Grand Assembly 2007! By the time you read this, Missouri Rainbow will have visited both Grand Chapter and Grand Lodge. I hope you took a moment to tell us hello! I’m developing my pictures as fast as I can and am now looking forward to visiting Piedmont, Wentzville--but, most excitedly, I’m going HOME to Harrisonville for my visit there as well as the State Dean’s (Kim Best) and my “official” reception. Remember now: Come see us sometime as this Grand year progresses! Remembering My Rainbow Promises, Samantha Stutzman 2006-2007 Grand Worthy Advisor International Order of Rainbow for Girls State of Missouri
continued from page 2 From the Editor’s Keyboard Grand Lodge and have printed them in this issue of the magazine as well. In case you're too busy to read them I can condense it down to one word – email. I mean, if you decide to submit an article (which includes those great service and lodge activity photos you send in), and submit it on a napkin written with a dull pencil, it's my job to get it in the magazine. But the preferred submission method is email. We included other article guidelines as well. By far, the most positive feedback we got after the last issue was the new size of the photos in the “Service” and the “Lodges and the Craft” section. The pictures were much larger and naturally the people in them were much easier to see. We're going to try to keep this up, but space is always an issue. As I write this article, I am uncertain as to whether or not we will be able to maintain the large picture size in it. We will continue to attempt to print the larger pictures but, whatever you do, please keep sending them in.
OFFICER LISTS Note: Lists of all Grand Line officers, Regional Lecturers, DDGMs and DDGLs, normally published in the Winter Edition of the Missouri Freemason will be published in the Spring Edition.
Steve Harrison, Editor
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
Winter 2006 13
14 Winter 2006
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
LODGE ON THE MOVE By Dennis Stehlik
Around 5 years ago O'Sullivan Lodge #7, Walnut Grove, Missouri, was on the verge of closing the doors. Our once healthy membership had become older and many had passed on to the heavenly fraternity, where we all hope to arrive. Our number had fallen to 55 with maybe 20 active members. It started to become a financial burden to support a large building, insurance, utilities and general maintenance. Brothers Dave Gilkey, Steve Gilkey and Art Dotson did a comprehensive study and at the rate of loss of members compared to financial need we perhaps had a year left. They began negotiating with the City of Walnut Grove to take over our building for city government business but providing us with a meeting place. After several weeks we came to an agreement and the City of Walnut Grove became the proud owner of our building. They issued us a never-ending license, which provided us with no less than a 1200 sq. ft. meeting room. The financial burden was gone. Now for the positive part of my story. After the deal was made with the city, some of our members wanted a place to pick a little music. So on the first Saturday of each month we started a jam session in the newly remodeled activity center of the building. In February many of the community members came to listen. We asked them to bring a canned food item for admission. The next month community members were responding and they were bringing 6 packs of canned goods for our food pantry. We had been passing food out to some of the needy families in the community. A few of us decided to take this music to another level. In June of 2003 we held our first blue grass and music festival. We had around 350 in attendance and cleared around $2000, which we designated to be used only for charity in our community. We paid for the medication needed by a child whose single mother doesn't have health care insurance. We donated several hundred dollars to the "Share your Christmas" project with the school and took groceries to several families. We had gained 2 new members that were familiar faces in the bluegrass world and through their acquaintances we started planning our 2nd annual music festival. We were honored to have the nationally recognized group Lonesome Road as one of our headliners. We sold advertising for a program we put together. We also had an anonymous donor who gave us $2500. They said, "We believe what you guys are doing is a good thing and we want to be part of it." After the dust cleared we had paid out around $600 for radio advertising, around $800 for 10 entertainers, $550 for programs and still had $1500 profit plus the donation. We made really good use of our charity fund money by continuing the child’s medication, two $300 checks to fire victims other medical needs, 55 packages of socks & 55 packages of underwear to the "Share Your Christmas" program at school. Through the Masonic Home Outreach together we bought 50-some kids new shoes or coats and numerous food donations. The community has really supported us and watches what we do. They now know we are not just a bunch of guys that belong to a secret organization. They know we are touching the lives of people in the community. We have been asked by the Community Development Committees to help with their annual celebration in the fall. They know all the men who work during our Music Festival and they want the help. We have just concluded our third Music Festival in June. We had spent over $750 this year on radio advertising for the 3rd Annual "Masons Pickin' In the Park" on 4 radio stations. One radio station has been with us all 3 years with a 2-3 hour radio remote show during the festival that the community businesses sponsored. The Historical Society has joined in the event and now sponsors a citywide garage sale and other activities for the day. The Mayor issued a proclamation at the beginning of the day and declared the second Saturday in June O'Sullivan Day in honor of the annual Music Festival. We had over 850 in attendance this year for the all day event. Each one of our members has a special task and everyone works in harmony to achieve this common goal. We feel our efforts are worth all the sweat that goes into hosting a large event as this, especially when you see the heartfelt thanks or that special smile on someone's face when you let them know you truly care by helping them. Our members are having fun while we are helping others and it must show. During the June meeting, after the festival, we conferred 2 first degrees, read 2 petitions, and 4 more men wanted a petition. Our membership has grown by approximately 30% and people are interested in what we are doing and want to be a part of it. Although the funds we made will be put to good use there is a greater value in what we do. There is not a way to put a price on the renewal of old acquaintances and the fellowship to which we are giving. We have started a trend within the small rural community for all organizations to be part of a fun filled day. Our monthly jam session will still continue. It gives many of our senior citizens a place to go once a month, to listen to good music, play cards, and just have some good fellowship. Many are widowed and lonely and need this opportunity. They feel needed as they contribute their canned goods to our food pantry. Our charity program doesn't stop with the Partnership Program we have established with the school. We continue all year long by using our money wisely to benefit many needy families in the community. We will keep enough to start our 4th annual Music Festival and give the rest away. I feel God is blessing our lodge with success because we are truly practicing "THAT LESSON IN CHARITY WHICH NEXT TO A BELIEF IN DEITY, LIES AT THE FOUNDATION OF FREEMASONRY". We at O'Sullivan are proud of it. We do have a purpose! THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
Winter 2006 15
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON MAGAZINE SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
The Missouri Freemason is your magazine. We are looking for original articles from you, which are about almost any aspect of Freemasonry. We are especially interested in articles about the activities and lives of Missouri Freemasons, ranging from biographical information about famous Missouri brothers, to interesting articles on the lives of brothers throughout the state who are involved in interesting and unique activities. The ideal length of the articles you submit would be about 1,000 – 1,500 words, and we welcome pictures along with your submissions. We prefer all articles and photographs be submitted by email. If you do not have a computer and do not know someone who does, please submit articles typewritten, single spaced and typed on white paper with black ink. If you have no other method, hand written articles are acceptable. Email articles to: editor@momason.org in MS Word or plain text format, with pictures attached. Mail articles to: The Missouri Freemason Magazine, P.O. Box 1120, Kearney, MO 64060-1120 • Never submit newspaper or magazine clippings. • Never submit something from the Internet. • Never send notes that are not a complete article. • Do not send multiple pictures for small articles (less than 1000 words). Photographs: The quality of a photograph degrades quickly in the process of transferring it from an original to a magazine graphic. Please submit the highest quality photograph possible. If you take a picture with a digital camera or scan an original, please make every effort to email the picture, rather than printing it off and sending it. Reprints: On rare occasion the Missouri Freemason will publish reprints of articles that have appeared elsewhere. In the event that you submit such an article for consideration, make sure to include written permission to publish from the original publication. This also applies to any picture that has appeared in another publication. Deadlines: The Missouri Freemason Magazine is published four times a year in February, May, August and November, approximately the third week of each of these months. Submissions are due the first business day of the month preceding publication. In other words, for the upcoming February issue, all items are due by January 2 (since January 1 is a holiday). You may use the following as a rule of thumb:
Issue
Publication Month
Deadline
Winter Spring Summer Fall
February May August November
January 2 April 1 July 1 October 1
16 Winter 2006
A sharp eyed and conscientious brother called the museum the other day to point out that the Hodiamont Street Car line was superseded soon after the Home opened in 1889. Businesses and residences blossomed on Delmar Boulevard causing the mass transit system to expand rapidly, with Delmar receiving its own lines. Information suggests that in 1889, when “the Home was practically in the country” the Hodiamont Street car line ran on narrow gauge track. As an interesting aside, the Delmar line was one of the last to get upgraded. According to one source the street cars were replaced with buses in 1964. With all of this interest we are hoping that a brother or two might have some schedules or tokens or other items relating to the mass transit system for us to include in the upcoming exhibit. At least during the 1950s the Home kept a cash box for transit money and other incidentals, though by all accounts some children chose to walk and spend the fare on other items.
BRETHREN OF THE STATE OF MISSOURI ALL DISTRICTS If you are one that does the Masonic Funeral Service - Please - send me your: Name______________________________ Address____________________________ Lodge Name ________________________ Lodge No __________________________ District No _________________________ Thanks Fraternally, Leo Bottom 627 Industrial Dr. Slater, MO 65349
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
Editor's Note: The Missouri Freemason received the following letter in early October from Mr. Dennis Conklin of San Francisco. We are printing this letter not only in order to help him locate the historic Masonic Home film he describes, but also to assist our own Masonic Home recover a copy for it's archives and the new Masonic Home museum. Brothers, if you know of a copy of this film, please help us out.
MOVIE MYSTERY – OF A DIFFERENT KIND Dear Missouri Freemason, My name is Dennis Conkin and I was a child resident of the old Masonic Home of Missouri when it was located on Delmar Boulevard in St. Louis. I was raised in the home from 1956-1964 from the ages of 3 to 11--along with my older brother Mike and my sister Patricia. We were placed in the Home because of the tragic death of my mother and the inability of my father to care for us at that time. We came to the Home through the auspices of East Gate Chapter in Kansas City. I vaguely remember a wonderful woman named Ada Mae who was involved in helping my family. I've since learned she was apparently a past Grand Matron of the Eastern Star. Many years have passed since I left the Home but I have rich memories. When the Home was sold and demolished in 1991 or so, much of the history of the Home passed into eternity. A 9,000-volume library was sold -and many important artifacts and historic items have also passed from Masonic custody. One item now lost to time and, of very great historic Missouri Masonic history, is a 1957 20 minute color 16 mm movie titled "In My Father's House" produced by the now defunct Premiere Film and Sound Studios of St. Louis, owned by the late Wilson Dalzell. The movie featured an actor named Harry Gibbs, still alive and in his late 80s now. The Home kids knew Mr. Gibbs as Texas Bruce, who had the first kids TV program in the Midwest--Texas Bruce and the Adams Dairy Wrangler's Club. The film on the Masonic Home of Missouri featured Gibb's portrayal of a child resident of the Masonic Home THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
who had grown to adulthood and had come back to the Home to visit. It featured a tour of the grounds of the Home, clips of young and old residents living their lives-and was used by the Home Superintendent to raise awareness and funds for the Home from Masonic Lodges and the various appendant bodies. He frequently took it around the state and showed it at Masonic affairs. The film is not in the custody of the Masonic Home any longer--and there were copies made for the use of various Masonic Lodges and I have a hunch it's not truly lost but in a box in a grandpa's attic or basement or in a dusty, unused cabinet in a Masonic lodge somewhere in Missouri. The Grand Lodge of Missouri is building a Masonic Home of Missouri Museum and Library. I'm writing to ask you for your help in trying to locate a copy of this movie. It's central to the history of the Masonic Home, the Grand Lodge of Missouri-and for one more important reason. My brother Mike is in the movie. Will you please help me find it. Please contact Cindee Herrick, the special projects curator of the Masonic Home at cherrick@mohome.org if you know about this film--or have any other important Masonic or Masonic Home of Missouri items that need to be preserved. Feel free to contact me at deneo52@gmail.com for more information. And tell your fathers and mothers and your grandparents thank you for what the Masons of the era did for me and the Conkin family. And thank you for your continued support of the Masonic Home of Missouri Dennis Conkin, San Francisco
Winter 2006 17
GRAND LODGE 185TH ANNUAL COMMUNICATION We wish to thank all the Brethren for coming to the Masonic Home booth and asking questions during the 185th Annual Communication this year. We had more visitors then ever and always look forward to see familiar faces and meet new individuals. We handed out a little over 1700 packets and hope you will find the information in them helpful. Should you have questions regarding the Masonic Home please don’t ever hesitate to contact the Corporate Office 800-434-9804. In addition to handing out information at the Masonic Home booth we also held our Annual Masonic Home Representative Luncheon and had a resounding 166 in attendance. During the luncheon the Masonic Home Representatives received a bag of items along with a packet that contains useful information for them to utilize during their year as the Representative. We were also delighted to have a guest speaker and a testimonial during the course of our lunch that told our Representatives about the Outreach Program and how it is continuing to change lives. If you were unable to attend the Masonic Home Representative Luncheon, Sara Snodderley Director of Public Relations for the Masonic Home will be in attendance for the Grand Master’s Area Meetings and will carry the items she distributed at the luncheon with her or you can contact the Public Relations Department and we can mail those items to you. Last but certainly not least, we also announced the Masonic Home Representative of the Year Award and our Partner of the Year Award. Each award displays the hard work and the support that these Lodges and individuals continually give to the Masonic Home, the membership and the programs. The recipient of the Masonic Home Representative of the Year Award was Brother Clinton Coulter of Herman Lodge No. 123. He has been a Mason for 51 years and has continually been an active Masonic Home Representative for several years. Clinton has made several referrals, compiled a widows list from his lodge, stays involved with hosting, or attending presentations, has been actively involved with our Masonic Home Golf Outing and urged his lodge to begin participating in the Creating A Partnership School Program. Brother Clinton Coulter has been a great liaison for his lodge and has supplied not only his lodge but the Masonic families in his area with countless amounts of information on the Masonic Home and all of its programs. Congratulation Clinton and keep up the great work. (Pictured on the left is Brother Coulter receiving his Masonic Home Rep of the Year Award) We also presented the Partner of the Year award, which goes out to the Lodge that has created a partnership with the schools in its area to provide school supplies, clothing, shoes and a variety of necessities to the children within its community. This year that award went to Woodside Lodge No. 387 representative Brother William Key a member from Woodside Lodge No 387 accepted this award on behalf of his lodge. However, we would be remiss to not acknowledge Brother Jimmie Tabor a member of Woodside Lodge No. 387 who traveled up to 50 miles or more at times to speak with schools in hopes to provide items to their children in need. Brother Jimmie was unable to be with us due to health related circumstances. We congratulate Woodside Lodge No. 387 for their hard work and dedication and ask that you keep Brother Jimmie Tabor and his family in your prayers. (Pictured on the right is Brother William Key accepting the Partner of the Year award on behalf of Woodside Lodge No. 387) Once again it was another great Grand Lodge Annual Communication if you have any question regarding the Masonic Home Programs please contact us at 800-4349804 and thank you again for your continued support. 18 Winter 2006
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
MASONIC HOME OF MISSOURI 4TH ANNUAL “LEAVES OF AUTUMN” GOLF OUTING By Sara Snodderley
The Masonic Home of Missouri hosted its 4th Annual “Leaves of Autumn” Golf Outing on September 11, 2006. The day started when I opened my eyes to thunder and a sky full of rain at 3:45 a.m., however it did not stay that way for long. As I said time and time again that day someone was watching over. The event took place at A. L. Gustin Golf Course located off Stadium Blvd. in Columbia, Missouri. We teed off at approximately 10:30 with the sun high in the sky and mild temperatures, however the day did not start that way. As we pulled into the parking lot to begin setting up we were in the midst of a pretty good rainstorm and at about 8:00 a.m. it was like a light switch and out came the sun. With 154 registered golfers the tournament was packed full of games, prizes, contests and a lot of golf. You could take your chance at the Putt-Fore-Cash $10,000.00 prize and some wanted to see if they could land closest to the Pin or hit the Longest Drive. In its fourth year now we are continuing to see a great deal of participation and support for this exciting event. Last year, through the support of our membership and our sponsors, we were able to raise $30,730.05 and at this year’s outing we brought in over $50,000.00. This is outstanding! As a result of your participation and contributions the Masonic Home has been able to provide lodges with the funding to purchase school supplies for children throughout the state of Missouri through the Creating A Partnership Program and has assisted those Masonic Children who have been in need through the Children’s Outreach Program. It is because of the hard work and support of many that the Masonic Home’s Annual Golf Outing is such a success year after year. Thank You. I want to thank all of our volunteers who worked so hard that day, without them we wouldn’t be able to provide the service our participants deserve. At 4:30 the golf day wound down and the clouds started to roll back in as we all gathered under the large tent for dinner, just in time for the rain to start back up, is that timing or what? During dinner we announced the winners of our silent auction, raffle, contests winners and began our live auction that was headed up by our Masonic Home Board President Right Worshipful Brother M. Robert Berger. We want to once again thank you for your continued support with this great event and encourage you to keep participating in it for years to come.
THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
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MASONIC HOME OF MISSOURI CHILDREN’S OUTREACH PROGRAM The Masonic Home of Missouri established a Masonic Children’s Outreach Program three years ago to help provide financial assistance to dependents of Missouri Master Masons and Eastern Star members who were in need. Additionally, it can also provide for those children who are members of Rainbow for Girls, DeMolay or Job’s
Daughters. The purpose of the program is to assist with outstanding costs, assist in taking care of future expenses or help with preventative type care. The ages for this program are as follows: Birth to 21 and 21 or older if your child is mentally handicapped or disabled. Some of the types of assistance we have provided for in the past have been Medical Bills, Pharmacy, Dental
Work, Hearing Aids, Glasses, Medical Equipment, Physical Therapy, Special Diets and Doctor Bills. Please inquire should you have questions on specific items or in regards to obtaining financial assistance so that you may get your child preventative type exams such as dental exams, hearing or vision. Please contact the Outreach Services Department with further inquires in regards to the Children’s Outreach Program 800-434-9804. (We ask that you be a member in good standing for two consecutive years.)
NEW LEGISLATION MAKES IT EASIER TO DONATE MONEY TO CHARITY FROM IRAS Dear Freemason Readers: Important charitable-tax reforms were included in the Pension Protection Act of 2006 that was approved by Congress this summer. Included in the changes is a provision for tax-free distributions from IRA Accounts to charities by individuals who have reached at least 70 1/2 years of age applicable only for the tax years 2006 and 2007. This is a matter of real importance to Masons wishing to support their less fortunate brothers and sisters and the following article by Sandra Block of USA Today is more helpful than most toward understanding those changes. If you have any questions or if you just want to discuss this article further, please give me a call. Bro. David Horner, Director of Development, Masonic Home of Missouri, 800-434-9804, ext. 219. (“From USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Co., Inc. Reprinted with Permission”.) Leaving money to charity when you die is a noble and selfless act. But giving money away while you're still alive is a lot more satisfying. A provision in the pension reform legislation President Bush signed last week will make it easier for older people to donate money in their individual retirement accounts to charity. The provision, which is effective only for 2006 and 2007, allows individuals who are 70 1/2 or older to take tax-free withdrawals from their IRAs as long as that money goes directly to charity. Ordinarily, when you withdraw money from your IRA, it becomes part of your taxable income for the year. If you donate the money to charity, you can deduct the contribution -- but only if you itemize on your tax return. Many retirees who no longer pay a lot of mortgage interest don't have large enough deductions to itemize. Older people who itemize may also benefit, says Mark Joseph, a financial planner for Sentinel Wealth Management in Reston, Va. Even if you claim a charitable deduction for your IRA withdrawal, the rise in your income from your withdrawal can trigger a host of unintended consequences, from a phaseout of your personal exemption to taxes on your Social Security benefits. Under the new provision, though, an IRA withdrawal that's donated directly to charity is excluded from your income. You can't claim the deduction. But you don't have to worry about unintended consequences, either. "It truly is simple, which is so unusual for the tax code," Joseph says. And there's another benefit: The withdrawal counts against your required minimum distributions for the year. IRA owners who are 70 1/ 2 or older are required to withdraw a minimum amount every year and pay taxes on the money, even if they don't need it. By donating the money to charity, you can meet that requirement without incurring a tax bill. The provision is limited to withdrawals from IRAs. If you have money in a former employer's 401(k) or similar plan, you'll need to roll it into an IRA before you can make a direct contribution to charity, Joseph says. There are, of course, some rules you must follow to take advantage of this tax break. Among them: *The IRA distribution must go directly to the charity. Ask your IRA administrator to send a check to the organiza20 Winter 2006
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tion. If the check is made out to you, you'll owe taxes on the withdrawal, Joseph says. *Private foundations and donor-advised funds are not eligible for tax-free IRA distributions. (Donor-advised funds allow you to contribute to an investment pool, usually managed by a mutual fund company, and decide later which charities will receive your money.) *The maximum tax-free distribution you can make is $100,000 a year, and again, the provision is limited to 2006 and 2007. "I think that the burden, or the challenge, is going to be for charities across the U.S. to reach out to those who potentially could give and let them know there's this quick window," says Diana Aviv, president of Independent Sector, a trade group for charities, foundations and corporate giving programs. Other provisions in the pension bill aimed at preventing abuses in charitable giving could affect much smaller donors. Those provisions include: *Record-keeping requirements for cash donations. Taxpayers who want to deduct cash contributions will have to substantiate all their donations, even if they're for small amounts. In the past, the IRS didn't require a receipt for cash contributions of less than $250. A written log showing you had made the donations was acceptable.
Starting next year, though, you'll need to be able to substantiate all cash contributions with a receipt from the charity or a bank record, such as a canceled check, in case you're audited. So if you're accustomed to tossing a few dollars in the collection plate every Sunday, you might want to start writing a check to your church instead. *New standards for donations of used clothing and household goods. In 2003, Americans reported more than $9 billion in donations of clothing and household goods on their tax returns. Under the new law, you can't deduct donations of these items unless they're in good condition or better. This provision, which took effect when Bush signed the bill, doesn't define "good condition," so the IRS will need to issue guidelines, says Mark Luscombe, tax analyst for CCH, a tax information publisher. The legislative history of the bill does, however, refer to used undergarments and socks as items that have minimal monetary value. In other words, they belong in the rag bag, not on your tax return. Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction or distribution is prohibited without permission.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT AT OUR 4TH ANNUAL “LEAVES OF AUTUMN” GOLF OUTING Pro Shop Sponsor $6,500-$7,500 Boone County National Bank UMB Bank Major Sponsors $1,000 or More FastSigns of Bridgeton, Brian Goldman Weaver Me Now, Rocky Weaver Sundvold Financial, Jay Jennings Morgan Stanley, Andy Oberman Williams Keepers Sams Club Modern Litho, Darrell Moore Brown Printing Regions Bank Morgan Keegan Prize Sponsors Target Olive Garden Heavenly Ham Orscheln Farm & Home Gerbes Supermarket Nancy Weiner THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
Missouri Art Gallery Signature HomeStyles/Kelly Holtkamp FastSigns of Bridgeton Richard Davis St. Louis Rams Football Signs Now Patricia’s IGA Nick Cichielo Six Flags St. Louis Donna Gastler HyVee Ancient Landmark Lodge No. 356 Golden Corral Hollywood Theaters Applebee’s Chantana Irvin Blockbuster Video Dana Morgenthaler Boone Tavern Tisha Woodard Donna Arlund Carly Dibben
Ron Jones Barbara Ramsey University of MO Athletics Smart Business Interiors, Inc Panera Bread Company Jodi Nefzger Merrill Townley Julie Barton Lathrop Lodge No. 506 Shele Smith Comp USA Ikon Office Solutions H & H Health Associates Lori Benson Owen Long David Horner Benjamin Franklin Lodge No. 642 Harvey Soule McDonalds I B Nuts & Fruit Too Maurice Rex Michelle Phillippe continues next page Winter 2006 21
continued from page 21 Golf Circuit City Karin Bell Les Bourgeois Vineyards Anheuser-Busch Companies Beacon Lodge No. 3 Perche Creek Golf Club Red Oak Concepts, Inc. Outback Steakhouse MFA Agri Services Weaver Me Now/ Rocky Weaver Busch’s Florist Perry Chevrolet Creative Memories Scrapbook/Joyce Klein Birdie Sponsor $500-$1,000 Modern Litho Print Company Richland Lodge No. 385 George Middleton Grand Lodge PR Committee Wal-Mart Supercenter Sams Club Bogey Sponsor $250 Corinthian Lodge No. 265 Bed & Biscuit, Pat Madden Gerald & Doris Kelley Bohm Enterprise, Bob Bohm Missouri Rainbow Girls Chapman-Sander Insurance Zeredatha Lodge No. 189 Alarm Communication Center, Inc The Bank of Missouri Connell Architecture, PC Columbia EDP Center, Inc Jim Johnson, Red Oak Concepts Missouri DeMolay Missouri Youth Foundation Robert Cockerham Family Driving Range Sponsor $75 Fraternal Lodge No. 363 Erick Kern Mizpah Mount Moriah Lodge No. 40 Bob Berger Farmington Lodge No. 132 Richard Paul Ivanhoe Lodge No. 446 Jim Snavely BG Service Solutions Dennis Fetter Alpha Chapter No. 507, OES Job’s Daughters Polar Star-Rose Hill Lodge No. 79 22 Winter 2006
Raintree Realty, LLC Gordon & Beverly Hopkins Socket-Telephone & Internet Giveaway’s Sysco Foods BG Service Solutions University Catering UMB Bank Saturn of South County SOCKET Candy Factory Boone County National Bank Anheuser Busch Company Signs Now TK Brother’s Restaurant Putting Green & Ad $35 Southwest Heritage Lodge No. 681 Sparta Lodge No. 296 Fellowship Lodge No. 345 Equality Lodge No. 497 Warrenton Lodge No. 609 Jasper Lodge No. 398 Lexington Lodge No. 149 Ancient Landmark Lodge No. 356 Cooper Lodge No. 36 St. James Lodge No. 230 Naphtali Lodge No. 25 Troy Lodge No. 34 Jonesburg Lodge No. 457 Lowry City Lodge No. 403 Alpha Lodge No. 659 Memphis Lodge No. 16 St. Charles Lodge No. 241 Joplin Lodge No. 335 Alpha Chapter No. 507, OES Lincoln Lodge No. 138 Norwood Lodge No. 622 Table Rock Lodge No. 680 Winigan Lodge No. 540 Branson Lodge No. 587 Columbia Lodge No. 534 Lathrop Lodge No. 506 Putting Green $25 Beacon Lodge No. 3 Mt. Hope Lodge No. 476 Moberly Lodge No. 344 Knob Noster Lodge No. 245 Linn Creek Lodge No. 152 Xenia Lodge No. 50 Wentzville Lodge No. 46 Rolla Lodge No. 213 Gower Lodge No. 397 Solomon Lodge No. 271
Hermann Lodge No. 123 Ivanhoe Lodge No. 446 McDonald Lodge No. 324 Jewel Lodge No. 480 Areme Chapter No. 461,OES Trenton Lodge No. 111 Holden Lodge No. 262 Stockton Lodge No. 283 Marshall Chapter No. 408, OES Brotherhood Lodge No. 269 Benjamin Franklin Lodge No. 642 Temperance Lodge No. 438 Gate of the Temple Lodge No. 422 Saline Lodge No. 226 Summit Lodge No. 263 Plato Lodge No. 469 Waynesville Lodge No. 375 Webb City Lodge No. 512 St. Joseph Lodge No. 78 Hopewell Lodge No. 239 Jewel Lodge No. 480 Clinton lodge No. 548 Mansfield Lodge No. 543 Independence Lodge No. 76 Cold Springs Lodge No. 274 Sedalia Lodge No. 236 Bayou Lodge No. 365 Granite Lodge No. 272 Neosho Lodge No. 247 East Gate Lodge No. 630 Charity Lodge No. 331 Anderson Lodge No. 621 Ava Lodge No. 26 Zeredatha Lodge No. 189 Clinton Lodge No. 548 Hebron Lodge No. 354 Granby Lodge No. 514 Billings Lodge No. 379 Barnesville Lodge No. 353 King Hill Lodge No. 376 Corinthian Lodge No. 265 Windsor Lodge No. 29 Job’s Daughters Western Star Lodge No. 15 St. Francois Lodge No. 234 Cass Lodge No. 147 Wayne Lodge No. 526 We apologize if you were not listed and should have been. WE WOULD ALSO LIKE TO THANK OUR 154 PARTICIPANTS.
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On February 21, 2006, Crestwood Anchor Lodge #443 presented Brother Raymond L. Markley his 50-year pin and Certificate of the Grand Lodge of Missouri. Dallas J. Nichols is shown making the presentation at Brother Markley's home.
On August 13, 2006, Jonesburg Lodge #457 presented Bro. William L. Martin His 50-year Grand lodge certificate and jewel. Here WB Leroy Finke, Treasurer of the lodge makes the presentation at Bro. Martin's home. Dr. Martin was the local Physician for nearly 30 years in Jonesburg, Mo. Bro. Martin was raised in Orient Lodge #190 in Aline, OK. We congratulate Bro. Martin on 50 years in Freemasonry.
WB Bill George of Corinthian Lodge No. 265 was proud to make a courtesy presentation of a 50year jewel and certificate of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, to Brother Robert Windsor, a member of Montgomery Lodge No. 246. Shown is his wife Lois, pinning the jewel on his shirt.
Brothers Frank O. Bither III, Lewis C. Vollmer and Simon Paim (shown l to r) received their 50 year pins and Certificates from the Grand Lodge of Missouri this past summer at Crestwood Anchor Lodge #443.
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Hale City Lodge #216, AF & AM, presented a 50-year pin to RWB A. Merling Armstrong May 7th, 2006 at his home in Carrollton, MO. RWB Leo Bottoms, DDGL 14th District, presented the 50-year pin. RWB Carl Walby, Secretary, read his history and Doris Armstrong, his wife, pinned on the 50-year pin. Brother Armstrong talked about his 50 years of history in Masonry. He had served as DDGL for a number of years in different districts and PM of different lodges. Pictured are Front Row: RWB Kenneth Osborn, DDGM 14th District; RWB A Merling Armstrong, RWB Leo Bottoms, DDGL, 14th District; Standing: RWB Harold Shatto; Bro. Jim Veatch; Bro. Reggie Crose; RWB Lee Fisher, WM; Bro. Ralph Dooley; Bro. Stanley Walby; RWB Carl Walby. His daughter and several friends were present also.
On May 9, 2006 Adair Masonic Lodge #366 A.F. and A.M., Kirksville, Missouri, presented Brother Loyd Welte his 50 year pin and certificate. Pictured with Brother Welte is RWB Berry Cundiff presenting his certificate. His wife and several Masons joined Brother Welte. After the ceremony cake and ice cream was served.
On August 10 at an open meeting, Arrow Rock Lodge No. 55 presented Brother Bobby L. Ashford with his 50 year jewel and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri. RWB Leo Bottom. DDGL 14th Masonic District officiated. (L to R) RWB Leo Bottom, Brother Bobby Ashford, and RWB Ralph Mahan.
Pictured is Worshipful Brother Brent Stewart, Past Master, making a 50-year pin presentation to Brother Kenneth Keith Gilmore on July 8, 2006 at Twilight Lodge in Columbia, Missouri at Twilight's Officer Installation.
On December 8, 2005, Crestwood Anchor Lodge #443 presented Brother Jack O. Lee his 50-year pin and Certificate of the Grand Lodge of Missouri. His wife Shirley is shown presenting him his pin along with PDDGM William E. Zimmerman.
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Hopewell Lodge #239 presented the following brothers sixty-year pins (l-r) WB Eugene Moses, Gerald Gastineau, Loren Hill (his wife Ruth is in the background). Submitted by Dan Byron, Secretary. WB Verble Johnson of Hopewell Lodge #239 presents Bro. Bill Davis his 50 year pin.
May 17, 2006 H.A. Robertson of Bethany Lodge #97, Bethany, MO, was guest of honor at an ice cream social where his wife Suzanne gave him his 50-year Masonic pin. Other members of his family were in attendance. Saline Lodge #266 of St. Mary, MO honored 50-year members June 24, 2006. RWB sonny Miller (right) of St. Francis Lodge #234 presented Bro. Harry Hutson his 50 year certificate as wife Janet pinned his Jewel.
RWB James W. Brewer, Secretary of Alpha Lodge #659, North Kansas City, received his 50-year jewel at a stated meeting on May 8, 2006. The 50-year presentation was given by RWB Fred Marrow past DDGM. The jewel was presented by his daughter Carol. Pictured left to right is RWB Fred Marrow, RWB James Brewer and WB John Merchant, Master of Alpha Lodge. THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
WM Harold Hill (left) honored 50-year member Harry Hutson at Saline Lodge #226 on June 24, 2006. Also in attendance were 50-year members Dale Graff (seated) and Robert Rottiler, all of Saline Lodge. The Lodge also welcomed guest 60-year member Elmo Blum of Herculaneum Lodge #338 (far right). Winter 2006 25
On April 20, 2006 WB Elvin Anthony received his 50-year pin and certificate at Naylor Lodge #568/ Bro. Anthony is a dual member of Poplar Bluff Lodge #209. Assisting with the ceremony is WB Lavereal Cowger of Composite Lodge #369 and Naylor Lodge #568. Also assisting is WB Bill Humble of Poplar Bluff Lodge 209. Presentation made by RWB Bob Brannum of Poplar Bluff Lodge 209 and Naylor Lodge #568.
On February 16, 2006, Westview Lodge #103, Millersville, MO, held a dinner in honor of Bro. Leonard D. Langston's 50-year milestone in Freemasonry. After the dinner all retired to the Lodge room where Bro. Langston was presented his 50-year pin and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri by RWB John E. Crites, PM of Westviews Lodge #103. Approximately 50 were in attendance. Ivanhoe Lodge #446, Kansas City at its annual Homecoming dinner on August 26th made a 50-year presentation to RWB Gerald (Gerry) Noble. RWB Gerry was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on June 26th, 1956. Gerry served Ivanhoe Lodge as Worshipful Master in 1976. He has also served the MW Grand Lodge of Missouri as District Deputy Grand Master. Gerry continues to be active in Ivanhoe and works in all the degrees and also can be called to do any degree lecture. The presentation was made on behalf of the Grand Lodge of Missouri by MWB Bill Hill, Past Grand Master, and the emblem was placed on Gerry's lapel by his loving wife Lillie.
Robert W. Andreae received his 50-year pin and Certificates from the Grand Lodge of Missouri on March 9, 2006 at Crestwood Anchor Lodge #443. WB Dallas J. Nichols, Master of Crestwood Anchor Lodge #443 is shown at left beside Brother Andreae. 26 Winter 2006
On April 22, 2006, Bro William B. (Buck) Price received his 50-year membership pin and certificate from the Grand Lodge of Missouri. The ceremony was performed at Poplar Bluff Lodge #209 by RWB Bobby L. Brannum. Bro Price was pinned by Bro. Curtis Robb.
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Pictured on the left is Homer G Ellis, being presented the 25-Year Service Jewel and Certificate from Washington Lodge #87, AF&AM, by our Lodge Master, John W. Shoemaker on August 22nd, 2006. Homer, who has received great support from his wife Twilla, lives in Lockwood, MO. One of their three grown sons is also a member of this Lodge. Thank you Brother Ellis for all the time and work you have done for this Fraternity of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons.
Worshipful Bro. Charles T Curry was presented a Grand Lodge 50 year award at a ceremony conducted by Sedalia Lodge #236. Bro. H H Luetjen (right) is presenting the certificate.
Stockton Lodge #283 hosted an open meeting and recognition dinner July 13, 2006 for six recipients of the 50 Year Membership Award. The recipients are: (front row left to right) Joe Ewing, Dwain Hammons, Floyd (Gene) Adams, Willard Dudley, Don Sanders (a member of Dallas Lodge, Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania but now a Stockton resident) and Don Davis. PDDGL Jim Kilburn and WM Gary Kenney (back row left to right) conducted the official ceremony.
Brother Laurence Simonds received his 50 year pin and certificate in Spirit of St. Louis Lodge #27 AF & AM June 21, 2006. Presenting the pin and certificate was RWB Floyd Ward. Brother Simonds wife, Pat, pinned the award to his lapel. Brother Simonds transferred to Spirit of St. Louis Lodge #27 from Bestor G. Brown Lodge #433 in Wichita, Kansas in February of 2004.
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Miss Heather Coffel is the 2006 recipient of the Ruth Lates Bachman Scholarship. Heather will be attending Missouri State University in Springfield, Missouri. She is a graduate of Thayer High School and the daughter of Donna and Danny Mainprize of Thayer. During a high school awards program Heather was presented the scholarship certificate by the Right Worshipful Brother David Frealy, District Deputy Grand Master of the 42nd Masonic District of Missouri.
On September 2nd, Conway Lodge #528 of Conway, Mo. installed its officers. Matt Marrone, at the age of 24, was installed as one of the youngest Worshipful Masters in Missouri. In attendance was RWB Jeffrey C. Kitsmiller, Sr. PDDGM of the 61st District, RWB Mike Adler PDDGM of the 17th District, Grand Lodge of Kentucky, and MWB William G. Hinton, Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky. Pictured are from Left to Right, Front Row: RWB Mike Adler, Howard Ridgley (SW), WB Matt Marrone (WM), Dennis Hill (JW), WB Craig Miller (SD), MWB William Hinton PGM. Back Row(L to R); Brad Hicks (SS), Ferdinand Buendia, Sr. (JS), Monte Dill (JD), RWB Jeffrey Kitsmiller, Sr., WB Jim Morgan (MAR), WB Dalton Owens (TYL), WB Jim Fisher (SEC), RWB William Brenneman (CHAP).
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Pictured left to right RWB Bennie L. Winnie, PDDGM of the 21st District; RWB Roy Talbot DDGM of 21st District and RWB Robert Wiekpl, DDGL of the 21st District. The brother facing away from the camera is the newly installed WM of Knob Noster #245, "Joe" Joyner. Persons facing the Master are receiving gifts after the installation. Our Lodge wanted to show its appreciation to these RW Brothers for being the installing officers and their assistance throughout the year. We feel all three deserve the highest recognition possible.
Also pictured is WB Marrone receiving an official Louisville Slugger Bat with his name and lodge engraved into the bat by the Louisville Slugger Factory. RWB Mike Adler and MWB William Hinton of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky made the presentation.
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Polar Star-Rose Hill Installs Second Officers' Line: Several prospective candidates were among those attending Polar Star-Rose Hill Lodge #79’s second installation of officers August 27th at the lodge’s building in Creve Coeur. At least one of the young men, after witnessing the lessons and richness of Freemasonry ceremony, immediately signed a petition. Others are expected to follow suit. Worshipful Brother Larry M. Petkovich was installed as the lodge’s second Worshipful Master. He succeeds Right Worshipful Brother Randall M. Berger who was the
first to hold that office after the 2005 merger of Polar Star and Rose Hill. WB Petkovich is also a Past Master of Polar Star. (A complete list of the new officers, elected and appointed, is under the picture of those officers.) The Lodge was honored to have as a special guest Right Worshipful Brother M. Robert Berger who was Deputy Grand Master when the installation was held. After the ceremony the members and guests gathered in the lodge dining hall for an especially good dinner, conversation, and fraternal and family friendship. Polar Star-Rose Hill Lodge #79’s second set of officers join Right Worshipful Brother M. Robert Berger, who was Deputy Grand Master when this picture was taken, following the August 27 installation for the 2006-2007 year. The officers, elected and appointed, are: WB Larry M. Petkovich, Worshipful Master; Bro. David Seehra, Senior Warden; Bro. Don J. Fruhwith, Junior Warden; WB Ralph E. Simpson, Treasurer; RWB Thomas O. Gooch, Secretary; Bro. John C. Green, Senior Deacon; Bro. Peter J. Panagiotopoulos, Junior Deacon; .Bro. Justin C. Blair, Senior Steward; Bro. Derrick S. Standley, Junior Deacon; RWB Nicholas R. Cichielo, Chaplain; RWB Randall M. Berger (Junior Past Master), Marshall, and WB C. Bruce Tanner, Tyler. Photographs by WB Richard A. Ramage.
Worshipful Brother Larry M. Petkovich is presented at the alter for installation as Worshipful Master of Polar Star-Rose Hill Lodge #79. The installing officers were RWB Kevin E. Weaver, Installing Master; WB David Swinney, Installing Chaplain, and RWB Eric V. Kern, Installing Marshall.
Worshipful Brother Larry M. Petkovich is presented with the gavel of authority by RWB Kevin E. Weaver, Installing Marshall, during the August 27th installation of officers for Polar StarRose Hill Lodge #79. WB Petkovich, a Past Master of the old Polar Star Lodge #79 was the second master of the lodge formed by the merger in 2005. He succeeded the first Worshipful Master, RWB Randall M. Berger.
WB Frank H. Davis, Wentzville Lodge #46 received the Secretary of the year award at the recent 2006 Grand Lodge of Missouri in Columbia.
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Brother James E. O'Shea was initiated an Entered Apprentice at the Thursday, Sept. 11th regular stated meeting of Swope Park Lodge Nr 617. He is shown with WB Gary Dryer (L) Master of the Lodge and WB Warren Weston (R) Secretary-Elect. WB Weston was Brother O'Shea's top line signer.
WB Harold W. Lindauer, Hope Lodge No. 251, Washington, was named Mason of the Year. WB Roger D. Fleer, right, made the presentation.
www.momason.org
Waynesville lodge # 375 installed its officers for the 20061007 year on September 19, 2006. This was an open installation held at the lodge hall in Waynesville. Pictured are: WM Roy L. Gilkey PM; SW Gerald W. Jones; JW Wayne A. Gerdes; Tres. Richard R. McCauley PM; Secretary Ellvan Markley PM; Chaplain Donald E. Ripley PM; Marshall Nelson G. Morgan PM; SD Robert G. Baker; JD Brian Jenner; SS Timothy Larrington; JS Aaron Stoltz; Tiler Paul W. Frantzen PM.
On October 1, 2006, Officers for Corinthian Lodge # 265, AF&AM, were installed at an Open Installation. WB Bill George was the Installing Master, WB Mike Sutton was the Installing Marshall and RWB Lee Winnie was the Installing Chaplain. Pictured are the Officers for 2007. Front row, from left to right is Junior Steward Patrick Sutton, Senior Steward Eddie Chitwood and Chaplain Brandon Myers. Back row, from left to right is Junior Warden Steve Nagel, Worshipful Master Steve Barnhart and Treasurer Ray Pautz.
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Pictured L to R F to B WB Michael Burch, Brother Timothy Allen Chism, and Brother Marc Godwin. In the back row is: WB Tom Burch, WB Tom Chism, and Brother Wayne Godwin. This was a called special for Brother Timothy A. Chism. He had petitioned the lodge, but with his military commits he was delayed receiving his First Degree; he was Initiated on 8/7/06. On this night the Brethren felt thankful, because in their mist were Three Proud Father and their Son's all Masons: Brother Father's and son's. New Madrid Lodge #429.
WM Gary Dryer congratulates Brother Neil Cowan on being raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason July 20, 2006. RWB Larry Cameron (right) raised Brother Cowan.
Worshipful Brother Donald Ripley in the center of the photo presented worshipful Brother Byron Eldredge, age 94 years young on the left and wife Ester on the right, with a Past Master's apron. Worshipful Brother Byron was Worshipful Master of Waynesville lodge #375 A.F.& A.M. in 1962 but was not given a apron at that time. This apron was presented at Brother Eldredge's home in Waynesville on August 24th, 2006. THE MISSOURI FREEMASON
Sept 24, 2006 WB Ron Sibley and Bonnie Jean Miller were united in marriage in the Masonic Hall in El Dorado Springs, Mo. The wedding was performed by WB James Smith. The music was provided by Sister Lillian Sunderwirth, PM and Sister Kay Zimmer, PDDGM. Pictured from Left to right: Kay Zimmer, Bonnie Miller Sibley, Ron Sibley, Rev James Smith, Lillian Sunderwirth.
Brother Jason Dryer, EA (center) gave back an outstanding full Entered Apprentice proficiency in lodge August 10, 2006. WM Gary Dryer (left) proudly sat in the East as RWB Larry Cameron (right) examined the Brother. Jason is a past MO state Master Councilor of DeMolay.
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Myself In Freemason e v o r p m I ry To
An Aid to Memory On the first page of the Missouri Cipher appears an important notice: “This book should only be used as an aid to memory.” Clearly, the official and accepted method of learning the ritual is from mouth to ear. When a teacher is not available, brethren often resort to trying to learn the ritual directly from the Cipher. The result is easily recognized by words improperly decoded. I heard a brother say, “The pillar…had flown.” Puzzled, I asked him where he found this phrase. He immediately answered that it was in the Cipher. What he had misread should have been “The pillar…had fallen.” But that is not the subject of this article. I am referring to learning Masonic ritual as an Aid to Memory. The first person to discover an art of memory is said to have been Simonides of Ceos, one of the most celebrated lyric poets of Greece, who lived 556-467 B.C. I first noticed this over fifty years ago, when I was reading Greek and Latin literature in graduate school. The famous Roman orator Cicero wrote of this mnemonic technique, and I found a full description in the Education of an Orator by Quintilian (late 2nd century). The Art of Memory devised by Simonides was based on fixing in mind in an orderly fashion every part of a building and its contents, and using those parts to anchor the items to be memorized. Simonides was hired to write an ode in honor of a victorious boxer, in which he included the customary praise of Castor and Pollux, patron deities of boxers. Because of that digression, part of the poet’s fee was withheld and he was told that he should collect it from gods whom he had extolled. At the celebratory banquet, Simonides was called out from the feast by a message that two youths urgently requested his presence outside. There was no sign of the young men, but the minute he stepped outside,
the banquet hall collapsed and all the guests inside were so crushed that they were unrecognizable. Simonides had received his full compensation by escaping with his life. His mnemonic skills enabled him to identify every guest, because he remembered the exact order in which each one was sitting. My suggestion is that the Masonic Ritual itself is an Aid to Memory, because of the orderly arrangement of its parts, the exact structure and wording of the text, and the exalted language used. The fact is that the memory is enhanced and improved by memorizing. There is an unfortunate, negative reaction to memorizing because of some unpleasant experiences in early school days, when memorizing poems was required. Do not allow such experiences to preclude the benefits you can gain now by memorizing Masonic Ritual. If taken a small part at a time and fixing each part into the memory, connecting the words with accompanying actions in the degree work, you will find that it is not difficult, and even pleasant. I will go so far as to say that Masonic Ritual can be therapeutic for the memory. This is based on personal experience. About twenty years ago, I was subjected to several major surgical procedures within a few weeks. These involved repeated anaesthesia, which affects the memory for a long time afterward. Recovery was slow, but I eventually returned to the University where I was teaching Greek and Latin. As I sat in my office just minutes from the beginning of my first class in several months, I could not think of a single part of the Greek language. It was as if the entire Greek language had been expunged from my memory. This could have been alarming, but now it was time to walk into the classroom. The minute I did so, my continues page 3
POSTMASTER: Please send Address Forms 2579 to Grand Secretary, 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite B, Columbia, Missouri 65202-6535.