January/February 2011
Volume 11, Issue 1
Mariner’s Lighthouse Dedicated to the Memory of RWB Charles H. Frampton, PDDGM Under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Ancient Freemasons in South Carolina THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF MARINER LODGE NO. 2 AFM, CHARLESTON, SC—2002 & 2006 WINNER OF THE H. DWIGHT MCALISTER AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN MASONIC JOURNALISM
2011 Officers
M a s o n i c
H i s t o r y — M a j
Worshipful Master
The Macomb family had close relations with Alexander Hamilton (Father of the American Economic System) who used his influence to gain Macomb a commission of Cornet during the French Emergency of 1799. 2 years later, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant and his officer duties consisted primary with American Indian relations. He was recognized as being very successful in his interactions with Native Americans, often befriending the indigenous people preventing conflict between Americans and Natives.
Richard C. “Rick” Ivey 843.343.6700 ivey.rc@gmail.com Senior Warden Thomas A. “Tate” McQueary 843.303.1442 tate.mcqueary@gmail.com Junior Warden Mark J. “Too Cool” Beasley, PM 843.469.2577 acmeprototype@yahoo.com Treasurer John E. “Jack” Daniels, PDDGM 843.708.3456 jackdaniels07@hotmail.com Secretary Michael C. “Mike” Henslee, PM 843.276.6768 mhenslee03@comcast.net Senior Deacon James M. “Matt” Jenkins 843.696.7022 uncjenx@aol.com Junior Deacon Ashley B. “Fly Boy” Neboschick 843.822.7168 flyboy1422@gmail.com Steward Cameron S. “I Have a 1st Name” Woody 843.408.8983 woody.cam@gmail.com Steward Stephen B. “Steve” Hiott 843.819.5002 stevehiott@bellsouth.net Tiler Charles P. “Mac” McSwain, Jr. 843.224.3271 macmcswain97@yahoo.com Chaplain Herbert S. “Herb” Goldberg, PDDGM 843.766.3516 hstrudel@aol.com Marshal Don M. Rogers, PM 843.261.3478 dm-rogers@att.net Marshal Emeritus Lloyd F. “Curly” Christopher, PGMar 843.571.2709 after-burner@comcast.net Historian Russell A. Binder 843.259.0695 binderr@charleston-sc.gov News Editor Richard C. “Rick” Ivey 843.343.6700 ivey.rc@gmail.com Physician Carey E. “Doc” Capell 843.377.5088 carey.capell@citadel.edu
G e n
Making War In A Young America Many of my recent articles have focused on the brethren that we learn about in Elementary School. They are well known men, for whom it would be difficult to find an educated person who had not heard of them regardless of their Masonic Affiliation. The United States being the great cultural experiment that it is has a collection of brethren who contributed to its design. While their where politicians, explorers, and philosophers, there were men who dedicated their lives to war. One man dedicated his entire life in pursuit of martial endeavors. Major General Alexander Macomb was such a man Alexander Macomb was born in Detroit Michigan on April 3rd 1782. At the time, the territory was named British North America. He was raised by his parents Alexander Macomb Sr. and Mary Catherine Navarre. At a young age, he migrated with his parents to New York City where he was afforded the best education possible. As many young men did at the time, Macomb entered the New York Militia at age 16. This would mark the beginning of a long and influential military career.
When the Army Corps of Engineers was officially created at West Point, Macomb became one of its first Officers. He is also accredited with being one of the first men to receive formal military training at West Point Academy. The next part of his junior officer career was spent establishing forts throughout the new nation as an officer with the New Corps of Engineers. When the war of 1812 broke out, Macomb was a Brigadier General. He was the commander of the northern New York frontier. The Battle of Plattsburg (September 11, 1814) is an often-overlooked victory for America. General Macomb’s forces where outnumbered nearly 8 to 1. Rather than give battle to a massively superior force, Macomb utilized subterfuge and guerilla tactics to constantly harry the British soldiers. His men would create fake roads and block existing ones. This caused British formations to become confused and lose direction. He kept the British from engaging three American forts that where highly under strength. Macomb called this tactic abattis. The confusion delayed the British troops long enough for them to withdraw from the action when they were informed of a major naval defeat by American ships on Lake Champlain. Macomb’s delaying tactics won the day. He would receive great praise, and be known thus forward as “The Hero of Plattsburg.” For his victory, Congress awarded him the Congressional Gold medal, which was the
M a c o m b
highest honor, afforded a man in uniform at the time.
Macomb would go on to be promoted to Commanding General of the United States Army in 1828 by President John Quincy Adams. He would see his final military action in 1835 during the Seminole War. Socially, in the military, Macomb was a huge advocate for increasing the size of the U.S. Army, and rallying for better pay for the enlisted man. Alexander Macomb is often compared to President Dwight D. Eisenhower, due to both men being praised as military heroes without ever actually coming under enemy fire throughout their careers. Well versed in army discipline and jurisprudence, he published in 1809, A Treatise on Martial Law & Courts Martial and in 1840, The Practice of Courts Martial. He died in Washington D.C., on June 25, 1841. Not much is known about General Macomb’s Masonic Career. Only the most basic information is available. His pedigree does however identify that he was affiliated with Masonry for a good portion of his life. He joined Zion Lodge No. 1 in Detroit Michigan. He was initiated on November 4th 1816, passed on raised on November 21st 1816. A little over a year later on December 1st 1817 he was elected Worshipful Master of Zion No.1. He passed through all three degrees and went on to lead his lodge in less than a year. Besides his general pedigree, not much else is known of his Masonic Affiliations.
Cont. page 11
LEGENDA (LATIN) - THINGS TO BE READ Advertisements—Pg. 14 & 15 Beauty in the South—Pg. 5 Bits & Bytes—Pg. 8 Book Review—Pg. 10 Calendar—Pg. 6 & Back Comic & Humor—Pg. 4, 6, 9 Community Involvement—Pg. 10
DDGM Message – Pg. 7 History—Pg. 1 & 11 In Memoriam—Pg. 15 Leadership—Pg. 5 Light from the Chaplain—Pg. 8 Master’s Message—Pg. 2 Musing of a Past Master—Pg. 7
Newest Additions, Photos—Pg. 11— 13 Physician’s Corner—Pg. 3 Property Perspective—Pg. 3 & 11 Scottish Rite—Pg. 9 Strength in the West—Pg. 4
Mariner’s Lighthouse
Page II
W i s d o m
F r o m
T h e
Brethren, Our First Decade is gone and so begins our second decade strong. It has been ten years since the formation of Mariner Lodge and thus we are in our eleventh year. As I sit and look over some of our history, we as a Lodge have accomplished much in the past ten years. The most important of them is the use of the working tool the trowel. We were five separate lodges, five separate entities, and while there will be the story from a Past Master about when we used to be “Washington, LaCandeur, Walhalla, Strict Observance, or Friendship,” for the most part every Brother is extremely satisfied with the strides that Mariner has made. Collectively we can always agree to disagree. I believe we all feel Mariner has begun its transition into becoming stable, which many other Lodges somewhat struggle at. We have spread the cement of tightening our bonds with each other internally and continued outward by assisting our sister lodges when they have requested help. This year has begun at a pace unlike the past. We have scheduled a fundraiser with the local Comic Shop to hold its Comic Convention on Saturday March 19th 2011. Mariner will be providing food, there will be a jump castle for the kids and a retired golf pro helping those with their swing. Our junior officers are taking the bull by the horn and will be putting on a Lodge of Sorrow to commemorate our deceased brethren on Saturday September 17th 2011. Prior
Rick Ivey owns Secqurance a local computer/network consulting company. He is pursuing a Master’s Degree from Iowa State and is active in the community for Veteran’s Benefits. Both he and his 12 year old nephew reside in Goose Creek, SC.
proper planning is allowing us to work cohesively to achieve these functions. I have dropped our degrees down to one a month unless we have a need or more than five candidates. This will allow our lodge to focus on its community efforts to influence the West Ashley and Charleston areas in a more positive light. As I sit here writing this article for Mariner’s Lighthouse a Monday afternoon I am listening to the radio for inspiration. In the second degree, we are taught about the harmonious sounds that music can play in our lives. While in the Lodge it is typically referenced to the sweet sounds of a symphony, this afternoon would not be that case. The ballads on the radio range from “Don’t Stop Believing,” by Journey, “Should I Stay or Should I Go” by The Clash, “Get Down Tonight,” by KC & The Sunshine Band, and “Money For Nothing,” by Dire Straits. Whether these are songs and bands you know there are some songs out there that simply put you a good mood. A mood like
E a s t !
you can take on any problem that life might deal you, survive, and conquer it. It might be the music of Glen Miller and the Big Band Era; Harmony of the 50’s & 60’s; Sounds of the 70’s with rock; Punk, heavy metal, hair bands of the 80’s, or hip-hop, rap and alternative music of the 90’s. Somewhere in all those genres of music, I am sure each brother can associate with a song that makes them feel great. Why should we limit ourselves to feeling this way only when we are only listening to those certain gem songs of ours? Brethren this is the way I feel about our Lodge every moment I am handling lodge work. I feel this way when I am assisting an officer to grow into their position, readying them for their next position, or just having a conversation with another brother. Join me in this wonderful mantra for 2011 and our efforts will be noticed not only by each other but other Lodges. This is the year to build our momentum and excitement to lead into 2012, which will be the 275th Anniversary of Freemasonry in South Carolina held in Charleston, SC. There is no better time to be a Freemason in Charleston than right now. Please contact me if you ever need anything, I am but a servant of the lodge. Without you Brethren there would be no Mariner Lodge.
Fraternally, ~Rick
CONGRATULATE OUR TWO NEW ENTERED APPRENTICES Brother Jay Anthony Beneventano Initiated 1/17/2011 Brother Jeffrey Kaplen Initiated 1/17/2011
MARINER’S MEMBERSHIP GROWTH Membership 2011 Petitions 431
1
Initiated
Passed
Raised
Affiliated
Deaths
Demitted
Membership This Newsletter
2
0
0
0
0
0
431
**These numbers are as of the printing of this newsletter and may not include information from our 3rd & 4th Monday meetings in January
Volume 11, Issue 1
Page III
Property Perspectives Seniors — Is a Reverse Mortgage Right for You?
Tim Allen is an Endowed Professor of Economics and Finance and the Director of the Carter Commercial Real Estate Center at the College of Charleston. He is also the owner and president of a private real estate investment consulting firm with operations in SC, FL, and GA.
Suppose you own a home that is worth more than you owe on it. In other words, you have “equity” in the home. How can you use this equity to pay your living expenses, buy a new car, make home improvements, or maybe take a Mediterranean cruise? One way to “cash out” your equity is to sell the home, but then you would have to find another place to live. A second way to “cash out” is to get a regular mortgage loan that you would then pay back with monthly payments.
But, if you are age 62 or older you have a very attractive third option called a Reverse Mortgage that is becoming very popular for seniors. This type of loan puts cash in your hands but it does not require you to repay the loan with monthly payments. If this sounds too good to be true, keep reading! The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) within the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) promotes a Reverse Mortgage especially designed for seniors called the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM). In this program, a HUD-approved lender lends you money and the loan is repaid from the sale of
your home when you die or when you stop living in the home. You will be charged interest by the lender and an insurance fee by the FHA, but the interest and insurance fee are not paid until your home is sold. A HECM Reverse Mortgage loan requires absolutely no payments from you until the home is sold. If your home sells for more than you owe, you (or your heirs) receive the difference. If your home sells for less than you owe, the FHA covers the lender’s loss. You do not have to worry about foreclosure or being forced to sell your home before you die or move as long as you continue to pay your property taxes and homeowners insurance and maintain the property in good condition. The amount of equity you can “cash out” of your home with an HECM depends on the value of your home, current debt on your home, your age, and the current interest rate. The interest rate on these loans is favorable, because the lender knows for sure they will be repaid all amounts due, either from the sale of the home or by the FHA. If you have any current debts on your home the lender will require that you pay them all off right away using money from the HECM. Paying off these debts is a good thing because you will no longer have to make those monthly loan payments! After paying off all existing loans on your home (if any), you may use the money you get from the HECM in any way you wish. Fur-
thermore, you can choose to take the money from the HECM as a lump sum, as monthly payments, as a line of credit, or some combination of these options. For example, suppose you get an HECM for $40,000 and you have a current mortgage for $20,000 that requires you to make monthly payments of $200 per month. The HECM will pay off the current mortgage in full, eliminating that $200 monthly payment. Maybe you also have a car loan for with a balance of $10,000 that also requires monthly payments of $200. You can pay off that loan with a portion of your HECM loan and thus increasing your monthly cash on hand by another $200. You still have $10,000 available from the HECM that you could then set up a schedule in which the HECM lender will send you a regular monthly payment of $200 per month, thus increasing your monthly cash on hand by a total of $600, or $7,200 per year. As a third option, you could set up a line of credit for the remaining $10,000 that you can access any time you choose, perhaps to pay unexpected expenses or to take that vacation you have always wanted! As you can see, the HEMC has considerable flexibility that can give seniors a great deal financial security for the rest of their lives. Some seniors are disheartened to think about taking on any debt in their senior years that will reduce the amount of any inheritance they could leave to their heirs. But, I suspect that your heirs
Continued Page 11
Physician’s Corner HOW TO HANDLE HEARTBURN (REFLUX) Heartburn, also known as gastro esophageal (GE) reflux, is very common these days. Despite its name, heartburn does not affect the heart. It is caused by stomach acid washing back into the lower esophagus, resulting in a burning feeling in the mid-chest. This is sometimes accompanied by a sour or bitter taste in the mouth. It often occurs after eating a big meal or while lying down. The feeling can last for a few minutes or for hours. Heartburn is generally mild and easily treated with over-the-counter (OTC) medications in most cases. Occasional heartburn symptoms can include frequent throat clearing, chronic cough, atypical chest pain (rule out cardiac chest pain), shortness of breath, and sore throat. At times, certain tests are necessary to make the final diagnosis. Reflux, especially severe reflux, is caused by
laxity in the lower esophageal sphincter (valve between the stomach and the esophagus). Conditions, which put a strain on this valve, or weaken the muscle around it, can predispose to reflux. Risk Factors: These include obesity, tobacco and alcohol use, caffeinated beverages and certain foods. Obesity causes a physical strain on the valve. Typical food triggers such as caffeine, fatty foods, chocolate and tomato-base products, can often cause reflux in otherwise asymptomatic patients. Similarly alcohol and tobacco consumption weaken the valve, predisposing it to reflux. Preventive Measures: These are lifestyle changes, and can be very hard to adopt. They include: Eat at least 3 hours before lying down. If you smoke, quit (best thing you can do for your health). Lose weight if you are overweight and do not eat big meals. Eat high-protein, lowfat meals. CAUTION: See a doctor if symptoms occur more than once or twice a week, or involve trou-
ble swallowing, weight loss, or anemia. If you experience sudden, dull, substernal (under the breastbone) pressure or tightness, especially if accompanied by left arm or neck pain, think: “heart attack” and call 9-1-1. OTC Medications: Try antacids first, like Mylanta and Maalox (2 Tbsp after meals). Relief is immediate, but they do not last very long. Next, try antihistamines, such as Zantac and Pepcid. These OTC meds significantly reduce stomach acid and really help with symptoms. Save the big guns, like Prilosec (also OTC), for really bad cases of heartburn which occur frequently. Prilosec reduces almost 90% of stomach acid and can be very hard to stop, once you get started. If you try Prilosec, use it only temporarily to cool things off for a couple of weeks, then taper off by substituting Zantac or Pepcid. (Multiple sources, including ABC Men’s Health and FamilyDoctor.org)
Carey Capell is the Head Surgeon for the Citadel, a military college located in downtown Charleston. He is a retired Colonel in the Air Force and resides in Charleston, SC.
Page IV
Mariner’s Lighthouse
That Column of Strength in the West Today I bring you fraternal greetings from Mariner Lodge #2. This year will be a great year and there are many items planned for this year starting with the Relay for Life. January’s business meeting; Mariner had the Community Manager for the Relay for Life, Fronde Merchant, come and inform the brethren of their organization and the different support programs they offer. For those that missed the presentation, we will be supporting this Cancer Research Benefit Program by participating on May 20 in the Relay for Life held at the West Ashley High School. Bro Mac McSwain is our direct liaison for Relay for Life and Mariner Lodge; see his article on Page 10. Strive for excellence inside Mariner Lodge is something that we pride ourselves each day. Already this year we were able to present two awards to members for the work completed during the previous year. First was a Certificate of Appreciation from the Charleston County Masonic Association. WM Rick Ivey presented this to WB Mark Beasley on the C.C.M.A.’s behalf. He earned this because of the work that he has done on the building. He has assisted cleaning it and cutting the grass. Our contributions are not just inside the lodge but the outside as well. His love for Masonry is what we all should strive for. The next time you see him congratulate him on this. He is a modest person and will probably give a reason like other people do work or it was nothing as why he should not have gotten it. However, let him know he is appreciated and that is why he received what he did. Brother Mac McSwain received his certificate for the third degree proficiency at the business meeting as well. He stood proficiency towards the end of last year. He is one of Mariner’s newer members and continues to strive for excellence. Bro McSwain was appointed Tiler this year. He has begun the climb of officer positions. As we know not everyone completes the third degree proficiency. This as Mac claims, “was some-
MASONIC HUMOR It seems that another Mason, Master of his Lodge, went to Heaven and met with St. Peter. He identified himself as a member of the Craft and St. Peter asked, “What Lodge?” Proudly the Master replied, “Old Adage Lodge #1.” St. Peter immediately took him to the Masonic Clock Room. The Master, in puzzlement, looked around the room, which was filled with clocks. Each clock had a Lodge′s name on a brass plate and, strangely enough, each clock was at a different time. He asked why and St. Peter informed him that the hands only moved when someone in that Lodge made a mistake in the Ritual. The Master then asked where his Lodge’s clock was, as he could not see it. St. Peter replied, “Why, it′s in the kitchen, of course.” “The kitchen,” said the Master? “Yes, you see, we needed a new fan.”
thing I thought I was supposed to do.” Congratulate Bro Mac next time you see him. The Goose Creek Chapter of DeMolay assisted us during our annual banquet on December 11 2010. Bro Walt Spiller and the Chapter were able to make our January meeting where we presented them with a check for $150.00 for their help. These boys are future masons. Mariner was a proud to sponsor them at the banquet and has offered to them a return welcome to any of the functions that we may have throughout the year. Our current Worshipful Master’s nephew is a member of the Goose Creek Chapter and I am sure we will be seeing these boys again. Lastly, I wanted to inform every one that if you or anyone you may know is interested in performing work inside Mariner Lodge’s degree work, please contact myself (information on cover of Lighthouse) so that I may schedule you in. We as Mariner travel to other lodges to perform work but we would love for the same support. Having new faces in the lodge is a great thing and we look forward to as many new ones as we can. Thank you for the support and I look forward to seeing all of you inside Mariner Lodge this year at some point in time. Fraternally Yours,
Thomas A. “Tate” McQueary, 32° Senior Warden, Mariner Lodge #2
Tate McQueary works for Cummins Turbo Technologies as a New Product Introduction Technician. In his spare time he enjoys hunting, going to NASCAR races, cub scouts with his son, and spending time with his 1 year old daughter. He currently resides in Goose Creek, SC.
Volume 11, Issue 1
Page V
That Column of Beauty in the South It was indeed a pleasure to serve Mariner Lodge as Senior Deacon for the year 2010. I tried to apply 100% of myself to perform all the duties required to hold the position. The Senior Deacon is not a position to be taken lightly. It comes with numerous responsibilities, and is one of, if not the most exciting offices available. I appreciate the Worshipful Master’s confidence to appoint me to the position last year. I hope I fulfilled his requirements and the demands of Mariner Lodge. As Junior Warden, the responsibilities grow in different ways as it does with all officers. Every officer must be ready to fill the chair above him, even with short notice. Our new Senior Warden must be at hand, and ready to preside as Master in his absence. I too, must be prepared to move to the West without warning. I believe all Mariner's elected and appointed officers for the year 2011 have taken measures for this eventuality. Lectures have been learned, charges have been memorized, and ritual work has been retained. We all know our own abilities and limitations. Are they too hard to defeat and overcome? Is it worth the time invested to learn new material, or to coach an EA or FC? Let us attempt to push the limits to greater lengths, and see what we truly can become. I can only say that I will allocate Mariner Lodge all due attention appertaining to the office which I have been entrusted with, to the best of my ability. Fraternally Yours,
Feb 9th Master & Wardens Club—Chili, Beans & Rice, Cornbread Feb 10th Business—Sloppy Joes, Coleslaw, Chips Feb 21th Degree—Hot Dogs, Baked Beans, French Fries
Mark J. Beasley, PM Junior Warden—Mariner Lodge #2
Mark Beasley works for Morris Nissan. In his spare time he enjoys playing the bass and visiting other lodges. He currently resides in Charleston, SC.
F o u r
L e v e l s
o f
L e a d e r s h i p
Level 1: You lead yourself.
group. However, leading a group isn't just getting them to do what you
Before you lead anyone else, you must be able to lead yourself. No matter
want. As General Norman Schwarzkopf, who led the victorious coalition
where you are in life, at any moment you have the ability to decide what
forces during the 1991 Gulf War, said, “Leaders inspire people to do more
matters most to you and the power to turn your vision into reality. When
than they ever thought they could.” A leader gets people to do what they
you do so, you can create a life of
wouldn't normally do, with the goal of increasing the quality of their lives
passion, fulfillment and contribu-
and
their
sense
of
what
is
possible.
tion—the kind of life every leader wishes for those he or she inspires.
Level 4: Your leadership influences communities beyond yourself and those you know.
Level 2: You lead one other person.
Level 4 leadership is about influencing others to do and be more even with-
It's one thing to transform your own
out you being there. You create a legacy of leadership that can last beyond
life, but it's quite a different matter
your lifetime. Think of great leaders like Mother Teresa and Nelson Man-
to help someone else to transform. It requires skill, training, commitment,
dela: their influence continues to be a force for good around the world.
but above all, caring for the other person. It also requires that you have an
Level 4 leaders must always keep
expanded vision of what is possible for the soul you are interacting with.
the primary goal of leadership in
When you seek to lead another, you must see this person's greatness and
mind: to influence people's thoughts,
then help them to discover and embody that greatness for themselves.
behaviors, emotions and most importantly, their actions, to produce a
Level 3: You lead groups.
result that improves the quality of
This is the level where most people start thinking of leadership—yet if you
their lives.
can't first lead yourself and another person, you will never succeed with a
http://www.anthonyrobbins.com
Page VI
F e b r u a r y
Mariner’s Lighthouse
C a l e n d a r
Feb 9th—Master’s & Warden’s Club Meeting—Located @ Mariner #2, C.C.M.A., Charleston. Collation @ 6:30pm; Meeting @ 7:30pm.
Charleston. Breakfast from 7:00am to Feb 21st—FellowCraft Degree—Located @ C.C.M.A., Charleston. Collation @ 10:00am. Feb 12th—Visitation—Located @ Port 6:45pm; Degree @ 7:30pm.
Royal Lodge #242, Beaufort. Breakfast Feb 10th—Business—Located @ @ 8:30am; Master Mason Degree @ C.C.M.A., Charleston. Collation @ 9:30am. 6:45pm; Business @ 7:30pm. Feb 15th—York Rite Business—Located
Feb 23rd—Scottish Rite Business— Located @ Scottish Rite Temple, Charleston. Collation @ 6:00pm; Business @ 7:30pm.
Feb 12th—Scottish Rite Breakfast Fund- @ C.C.M.A., Charleston. Collation @ raiser—Located @ Scottish Rite Temple, 6:45pm; Business @ 7:30pm.
M a r c h Mar 9th—Master’s & Warden’s Club Meeting—Located @ York Rite, C.C.M.A., Charleston. Collation @ 6:30pm; Meeting @ 7:30pm Mar 10th—Business—Located @ C.C.M.A., Charleston. Collation @ 6:45pm; Business @ 7:30pm. Mar 12th—Scottish Rite Breakfast Fundraiser—Located @ Scottish Rite Temple, Charleston. Breakfast from 7:00am to 10:00am Mar 12th—SC Masonic Research Soci-
C a l e n d a r
ety—Located @ C.C.M.A., Charleston. ner Lodge. Located @ C.C.M.A., Charleston. Collation @ 6:45pm; Degree @ Meeting @ 11:00am. 7:30pm. Mar 15th—York Rite Business—Located @ C.C.M.A., Charleston. Collation @ Mar 23rd—Scottish Rite Business— Located @ Scottish Rite Temple, 6:45pm; Business @ 7:30pm. Charleston. Collation @ 6:00pm; BusiMar 19th—Fundraiser—Located @ ness @ 7:30pm. C.C.M.A., Charleston. From 10:00am to 4:00pm. Comic Convention, Food, Jump Mar 26th—Past Grand Masters Grave Castle, Golf Pro helping those with their marker Dedication—Located @ Washington Light Infantry Building, Charleston. swing. Lodge Open @ 11:30am, then retire to Mar 21st—Master Mason Degree— Magnolia Cemetery for ceremony. Conferred by the Past Masters of Mari-
M A S ON I C P S E U D O K U — F U N & GA M E S Tune into the next issue which will have the answers to these. Can you figure out the hidden word each puzzle spells??
Puzzle A
Puzzle B
Volume 11, Issue 1
D i s t r i c t
D e p u t y
Page VII
G r a n d
M a s t e r ’ s
M e s s a g e
“Behold how good and how pleasant it is for Brethren to dwell together in unity…”
offering sincere humility. You expect this from your Brother Masons and they demand it from you.
Enjoying the benefits this verse expresses has its price! These benefits are not free nor are they a God given right. Are you paying the price? You pay when we meet, our hands clasp, we share a smile and precious moments exchanging experiences of our journey. You pay when accepting shortcomings of your brothers avoiding ridicule or disrespect. Do you invest time considering your words before your tongue speaks, regarding each brother’s esteem as his ears receive the sound of your voice? That is how you pay.
Others less informed are watching closely and are talking about our behavior. They take particular notice how we regard one another and are extremely anxious to uncover flaws in our benevolent institution. Cheerfully respecting the feelings of every brother will create the positive image our fraternity deserves and will reward richly the brothers who participate. Friendship is indeed a precious jewel of a Master Mason!
When facing seemingly insurmountable opposition confronting flaring tempers and hostile expressions you truly pay by searching down deep within your soul and producing a genuine smile while
Are you paying your portion? Fraternally, Bobby E. Pennington, Jr. DDGM First Masonic District
M u s i n g Change of Command I got an email from an old high school friend who knew my year as Master of Mariner Lodge was over. She asked what would I do now? Excellent question. I really hadn’t thought that far ahead, the last two months had just been too turbulent with Lodge issues and family issues. Very much like I was in my Mother Lodge back home after I became involved in Masonry, practically from the time I affiliated with Mariner I have been focused on learning the South Carolina version of Masonic ritual and always seemed to be in an officer’s chair helping to open the Lodge and put on degrees. In my time in Masonry, it has been relatively rare for me to just sit in Lodge and listen. Well, I sat last night in Mariner Lodge #2 for the first time in a long time on the sidelines without any specific duties to perform. I didn’t have brothers coming up to me with some issue they needed solved immediately. I’d signed the last of the documentation I needed to sign as Master and was actually able to sit in the dining hall and enjoy a meal without wondering who wasn’t going to show up that I would need to get a sub for. I didn’t need to count noses of the elected and appointed officers to see if everyone was in the Lodge room ready to go. I wasn’t silently running over the opening ritual in my head while simultaneously identifying and writing down the names of the Past Masters I would soon have to introduce. I WAS one of the Past Masters someone else would have to introduce. As I watched the new Master getting his ducks in a row to open the Lodge, I thought back to how nervous I’d been a year before. I looked down at my new past master apron and pocket jewel and thought “You made it! You are a Past Master” After being in the chairs for the last few years, it felt strange. I’m reminded of the feeling you have when you realize you’ve just survived an auto accident – while it is happening time almost slows down, but suddenly it’s over and everything happened too fast for you to absorb it all. You just sit there trying to get your head wrapped around the fact that you survived. As you progress through the officer chairs in Masonry each time you adAsk about our cheap AD space. Help support the cost of our Official Mariner #2 AFM Newsletter. Contact ivey.rc@gmail.com for more details Know the businesses brothers are in. Decide whether that brother and business can fit your needs.
o f
a
Bobby E. Pennington, Jr is the Owner and President of Winn-Penn Plumbing, Inc which specializes in Commercial Plumbing. He is a Past Master of Mariner #2 and the Current District Deputy Grand Master for the 1st Masonic District. He resides in Summerville, SC. For any further questions you can reach him at mrpipe@knology.net or his mobile number 843.478.7413
P a s t
vance there are new duties and responsibilities you have to accept and get a handle on so you can perform them the best you can. The further you progress the more responsibilities there are. It peaks when you are Master. For the most part you are respected, and when you visit other Lodges you are treated like someone special. The Grand Master and DDGM know you. It’s an intoxicating experience. Then suddenly you are a Past Master. There are no actual responsibilities other than to try to help or give wise counsel when needed, and try to stay out of the way when not needed. Sort of like being a parent when the last of your children leaves home to strike out on their own. At first, you just feel the weight of responsibility come off your shoulders. But then you look back and think of all the things you wish you had done better that probably you’re the only one who remembers. You think of the things you did right that probably you’re the only one who remembers. You hope you properly instilled the values that are important to the next generations. Then you have to let go. Respectfully and Fraternally, Tom Lewis, Jr PM, 32° KT KRC
M a s t e r
Tom Lewis works for The Gel Group LLC located in Charleston, SC. He was the Worshipful Master of Mariner Lodge for 2010. He is a life member of Jackson Lodge #45, Jackson TN. where he was raised a Master Mason in 1975. He is also a 32° Mason in the Charleston Scottish Rite, a life member of the Memphis Scottish Rite, a Knight Templar, a Knight Mason and a member of the Royal Order of Scotland. He currently resides in Charleston, SC.
Volume 11, Issue 1
B i t s
&
Page VIII
B y t e s — W o r k i n g
w i t h
M i c r o s o f t
P o w e r P o i n t
The one thing that most people suffer from when using a computer, is knowing the simple shortcuts that are available in order for them to perform a task, or tasks quicker. These shortcuts are known as shortcut keys, and they are very useful, and not only for the novice user, but also for the more advanced computer user as well. Getting to know these shortcut keys will hopefully enable you to cut down on the time it takes for you to perform a certain task on your computer, thus leading to more efficiency in what you are doing, whether at home, school, or work. In this issue we will explore Microsoft Word Shortcut Keys.
Controlling Slides in Slide Show
Working with Presentation Windows
To…
Use this Shortcut
To…
Use this Shortcut
Go to Slide <number> Black/Unblack Screen White/Unwhite Screen Show/Hide Pointer End Show Erase Screen Annotations
<number> ENTER B or Period W or Comma A or = ESC, CTRL+Break, Minus, END E
Go to Previous Window Go to Next Window Size Presentation Window (Un-Maximize) Maximize Application Window Maximize Presentation Window
CTRL+Shift+F6 CTRL+F6 ALT+F5
Advance to Hidden Slide
H
Restore Presentation Window to Previous Size
CTRL+F5
Advance to Next Slide
Mouse Click, Spacebar, N, Right Arrow, Down Arrow, Page Down
Put Presentation in its own Window
CTRL+F5
Return to Previous Slide
Backspace, P, Left Arrow, Up Arrow, Page Up
L I G H T At the installation of the Chaplain during the annual installation of masonic lodge officers, either the Worshipful Master or whomever is designated as the installing officer recites the following paragraph: In the discharge of your duties, you will be expected to lead in the devotion of the lodge at all communications, and public ceremonies. Masonry is not a religion, yet it is religion's handmaid, and we are sure that in ministering at its altar, the services you may perform will lose nothing of their vital influence because they are practiced in that spirit of universal tolerance which distinguishes our institution. The Holy Bible, the great light of Masonry, we entrust to your care.
F R O M
T H E
ALT+F10 CTRL+F10
C H A P L A I N
Thus, the Chaplain begins his year in offering prayers to those in attendance at lodge meetings, at lodge degree work, at funerals and at collations. At the latter there is not a designated prayer that might fit each occasion and is left up to the Chaplain to speak from his heart to not only offer a prayer covering members present but also for thanking the Great Architect of the Universe for everything that is provided for us. We pray for peace, good health, wellness for those who are ill, for our armed forces overseas in harm's way and finally for the food we are about to partake. The Entered Apprentice is first told that no Mason should ever enter upon any great and important undertaking without first invoking the aid of Deity. Even so, but how few pause to consider how large a place prayer has in Masonry, and what this means for the culture of the soul. A
Lodge is a temple; at its center is an altar of light; its rites are an allegory of human life. It is thus that Masonry is mystical, as music is mystical--like poetry, like love, like all else that makes it worth our time to live and look up at the stars. For mysticism is only a big word for the deep truth that the kingdom of heaven is within us. When you listen to the Chaplain giving a prayer, listen to the words, and try to incorporate them into your own life. You will be a better person in doing so. I would like to also say thank you to all the brothers and their families for all their concerns and prayers for my wife, Helen, during her recent illness and hospital and rehab stays. She came home Monday, January 17th. Herbert S. Goldberg, PDDGM, PM Chaplain
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Mariner’s Lighthouse
A l b e r t
P i k e ’ s
S t r i n g
o f
P e a r l s
Beginning in 2006, Larissa P. Watkins, Librarian at the Supreme Council, 33°, S.J. in Washington D.C. began compiling different sayings of Albert Pike through all of his writings. The end result was a fabulous little book title “String of Pearls,” which was published in 2008. It is available at http://www.scottishrite.org for only $7.95. Below are a few gems for the months of January and February. I hope you will consider adding this to your Masonic Library. ~Rick
Jan
Remember that…your duty is, not to be better than your Brethren, but to be better than yourselves…
Oliver Wolcott
11
(1760—1833) United states Secretary of the Treasury and Governor of Connecticut
Jan
John Hancock
~18°, Knight Rose Croix, of the Eagle, or of the Pelican, Liturgy… Part III, pp.182-183.
12
(1737—1793) First Signer of the Declaration of Independence and First Governor of Massachusetts
Jan
Benjamin Lincoln
24 Feb
4 Feb
22 Feb
25
~13°, Royal Arch, Magnum Opus, p.17.
Firmness of purpose is the great foundation stone of character, without which the superstructure if frail and tottering.
Charles Augustus Lindberg (1902-1974) American Pilot famous for the first solo, non-stop flight across the Atlantic
~Address on St. John’s College, p. 2.
The Great Man is who comes at the right time, and knows how to innovate in the right manner.
George Washington (1732-1799) First President of the United States of America
~28°, Knight of the Sun, or Prince Adept, Legenda XIX-XXX, p.122.
Jean Baptiste-Marie Ragon (1781-1862) Masonic Writer, regarded as “the most learned Freemason of the 19th century.”
D e g r e e
~What Masonry is and its Objects, p. 23.
There is no dull or unmeaning thing in existence, did we but understand it.
(1733-1810) Major General in the American Revolution and Secretary of War
T w e l f t h
The word of Mason, like that of a Knight in the Time of Chivalry, once given, ought to be sacred…
–
The true Mason is a practical Philosopher, who…builds upon plans traced by nature and reason the moral edifice of knowledge. ~20°, Grand Master of All Symbolic Lodges, Morals and Dogma, p.325.
M a s t e r
A r c h i t e c t
This degree discussed is one of the Scottish Rite degrees. For those seeking more Light in Masonry there are the York & Scottish Rites. April 23 2011 is a York Rite Reunion. June 4 2011 is a Scottish Rite Reunion. See the Worshipful Master or either Wardens for petitions or more information.
This degree teaches faith in morality, virtue and God. “Life is what each man makes of it; the optimist turns a trial into a blessing.” The apron of the 12th Degree consists of a white outer shell lined with blue and gold, symbolizing the Craft Degrees, with a protractor, plain scale, sector, and compasses. The jewel is a heptagonal medal of gold. The duty is to seek wisdom through knowledge. The instruments, which play so large a part in the Blue Lodge Degrees, the plumb, square, and level – are absent. We move away from the operative and fully into the speculative aspects of Freemasonry. These instruments are emblems of the ethi-
cal duties of man and the duties he owe to himself – to study, to learn, to develop, and especially to think. ~Rick Tresner, James T. Vested in Glory: the Aprons, Cordons, Collars, Caps, and Jewels of the Degrees of the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. Washington, D.C.: Supreme Council, 2000. Print. "Degrees of the Scottish Rite." The Scottish Rite of Minnesota. Web. 28 Jan. 2011. <http://www.scottishrite-mn.org/degrees.htm>.
*Created by Bro Owen K. Lorion of Cerrillos Lodge #19, Santa Fe NM & Masonic Pseudoku. Using by permission & Author has given approval to reprint.
Volume 11, Issue 1
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Book Review Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell ISBN—978-0316017923
Riding the wave of success of his first book, “The Tipping Point,” Malcolm Gladwell’s latest book, “Outliers” has gained unprecedented attention in both the boardroom and the living room – changing not only the topics at cocktail parties, but also the way in which they are discussed. Does Gladwell, however, deliver value? Using colorful back-to-back narratives to tell the ‘story behind the story’ of the advantages leading enormously successful individuals to greatness Gladwell describes the concepts and advantages that made superstars like Bill Gates, the Beatles, Oppenheimer, and a group of eminent New York Jewish lawyers wildly successful. Although we know how these stories end, Gladwell freshly presents these narratives with trivial surprises and a serendipitous writing style that certainly entertains. The trivial flavor of facts contrasts, and therefore more deeply
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emphasizes the root causes of school achievement gaps, lack of confidence in children of lower-income families, and missed opportunities of intellectually gifted individuals. As an example, the first chapter jumps into the anomaly of birthdates of star hockey players. In the best leagues in the world over forty percent of the players were born between January and March while only ten percent were born October through December. It is a strange pattern with a simple explanation. The cutoff date for most youth hockey leagues is January 1. The kids born early in the year are bigger, faster, and stronger than their peers are which leads them to all-star teams and more intense training. This is just one secret pattern of everyday phenomena illuminated by Gladwell.
didn’t support his claims; Second, the book (on the surface) demolishes individual merit in favor of timing, circumstances, and luck as the basis of success. This concept is unacceptable to us Masons who are taught to overcome inundations and conflagrations and to use the secrets of life to remove barriers to success. While the conclusion to overcoming adversity is not as clear as Gladwell’s narrative writing, there are several extremely valuable lessons hidden in the undertones of his conclusions – namely the “ten-thousand hour rule” and the framework of “active parenting.” These concepts alone make the book a valuable read. Steve’s Rating: ☻☻☻☺☺
As much as I appreciate the fresh approach and surprising twists of narratives, there are two clear pitfalls in the book: First, Gladwell obviously cherry-picked case studies to best illustrate his points, thereby leaving us wondering what data he rejected because it
Steve Hiott is a Certified Public Accountant and Certified Financial Planner. He works as a Business Consultant coaching small business owners in strategy and wealth accumulation. He resides in Charleston with his wife and two children.
Community Involvement—Relay For Life Mariner Lodge #2 is organizing a team to participate in Relay For Life. The team name is Freemason of Charleston. Relay For Life is a team-focused fundraising event to fight cancer. Funds raised through Relay support the local and national American Cancer Society. This money makes possible cancer research, cancer education, and other programs that serve cancer patients as well as their families. Team members set a fundraising goal and ask people to donate. Relay For Life’s information can also be emailed to potential donors. On the day of the event, team members take turns walking around a track from 7 pm to 7am. Relay For Life is May 20th – 21st from 7 p.m. – 7 a.m. at West Ashley High School. This event is a great way for Masons to show that we care about our community and want to be involved.
For those interested in participating in our Lodge team, please contact me at macmcswain97@yahoo.com or call 224-3271. If you would like more information about Relay For Life, you can visit the website http:// www.relayforlife.org/rflcharleston or you can contact me. The first team meeting is scheduled for February 10th at 6 pm at the CCMA, which is the same night as our next business meeting. If you cannot participate but would like to donate, email me your contact information, and I will send you information. Respectfully and Fraternally, Mac McSwain Mac McSwain is a CPA and partner in Wilson & Quirk, LLC. He currently is the Tiler for Mariner Lodge. He resides in Charleston, SC with his wife Angela and their 3 kids.
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Mariner’s Lighthouse
Property Perspectives Cont. will recognize that you are spending your own wealth that you have been “storing” in your home. I also suspect they will be pleased that you have the financial resources to more comfortably live out your golden years. If you think a Reverse Mortgage might be right for you, contact HUD at (202) 708-1112 to find a local HUD office and get more information about the HECM program. On a cautionary note, there have been numerous reports of scams involving Reverse Mortgages from lenders who have not been approved by HUD. To avoid these scams, work directly with HUD-approved lenders. In no case should you pay a fee to participate in any Reverse Mortgage information or counseling session (a common scam). HUD provides free counseling for seniors to help you decide if a HECM is right for you. Tim Allen, Ph.D., CCIM, 32° Mariner Lodge #2
Masonic History Cont. An interesting point that happened 167 years later was that General Macomb was reinterred. “In 2006, one of the stone makers working in the cemetery noticed that the Macomb statue was not standing straight,” said Cindy Hays, executive director of Congressional Museum. “A week later, he noticed it was less straight and came to us with the news that the statue had started to list.” Workers began excavating around the site to determine why the monument had started to tilt and found that the vault surrounding the Macomb remains had begun to cave in and needed to be replaced, or the monument would eventually fall. It took about two weeks to remove the monument and dig down to the vault as workers took care not to disrupt any remains that might be in the ground. As they approached the Macomb grave, they found he had been buried in a lead liner, which was very unusual for that time period. His remains, and those of his wife, Catherine, were disinterred in June 2008 so that the brick-lined burial vault beneath their 6 ton, 13-foot-tall marble monument could be repaired to prevent its impending collapse. Mrs. Macomb’s remains were in disarray, but the general's skeleton was intact, and clothing remained on the body. During the month it took to make the necessary repairs, the couple’s remains were kept at the Smithsonian and were viewed by several of the general's descendants including his great-great-great granddaughter. After the $24,000 repairs were completed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, their remains were reinterred on July 17, 2008. It was said that the monument to Alexander Macomb was “one of the most unusual in the nation.”
Bauling, Herman. "Maj. Gen. Alexander Macomb." The New Age Magazine Oct. 1940: 608. Shepardson, David (2008-07-18) “Macomb's remains at rest again”. Detroit News. http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2008/jul/18/general-reburied-in-historic-cemetery/ http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=12936 http://www.thefullwiki.org/Alexander_Macomb_(American_general) http://pressrepublican.com/0100_news/x155089662/Battle-of-Plattsburgh-military-leader-re-buried-in-Washington http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/07/17/AR2008071702667.html
!!!!CONGRATULATE OUR TWO NEWEST ADDITIONS TO THE MARINER LODGE FAMILY!!!! December 20th 2010 we raised two new Master Masons. Bro Ross Messinger (seen left) Bro Chuck Herdel (seen right) Left—Bro Ross Messinger and his Grandfather Bro Bill Pavkov. Bro Pavkov flew in from Iowa to see his grandson raised. Right—Bro Chuck Herdel and Bro Matt Jenkins (Junior Deacon) sharing a laugh and congratulations of becoming a Master Mason. Those that are Master Masons know that feeling, as seen in this picture, after its all over.
Volume 11, Issue 1
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Lodge Member Photos D e c e m b e r
9 t h
2 0 1 0 -
A n n u a l
I n s t a l l a t i o n
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Top Left: WB Lloyd Christopher escorting Bro Thomas McQueary to be installed as Senior Warden; Bottom Left: WB Ricky Chubbs enjoying the installation; Top Middle: WB Tom Lewis (PM 2010) & WB David Heins (PM 2009) joining the festivities. Bottom Middle: From LtoR—Bro Ashley Neboschick, WB Lloyd Christopher, Bro Matt Jenkins. WB Christopher escorting Bro Jenkins & Neboschick to be installed as Senior and Junior Deacon.
O f f i c e r s
Above: WB Lloyd Christopher escorting WB Mark Beasley to be installed as Junior Warden.
Picture Below—Mariner Lodge 2011 Officers: Front Row—Bro Matt Jenkins (Senior Deacon), Bro Thomas McQueary (Senior Warden), WB Rick Ivey (Worshipful Master), WB Mark Beasley (Junior Warden), Bro Ashley Neboschick (Junior Deacon); Back Row—RWB Jack Daniels (Treas), Bro Mac McSwain (Tiler), Bro Steve Hiott (Steward), Bro Cameron Woody (Steward), Bro Russell Binder (Historian); Not Pictured— WB Mike Henslee (Sec), RWB Herb Goldberg (Chaplain)
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Marinerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lighthouse
Lodge Member Photos D e c e m b e r 1 1 t h 2 0 1 0 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 1 0 t h A n n u a l M a r i n e r L o d g e L a d i e s N i g h t B a n q u e t
RWB Jack Daniels with a grin on his face during the installation of officers on for the December 9th 2011.
Above: WB Rick Ivey presenting Maj Gen Livingston a donation of $300.00 from Mariner Lodge to the Wounded Warrior Project. Top Right: RWB Herb Goldberg enjoying the festival. Right: Maj Gen Livingston & WB Tim Larkin (Worshipful Master in 2010 of MacArthur Lodge #427).
Above: RWB Bobby Pennington, Jr greeting & thanking WB Willis Godwin for coming to our banquet. Right: WB Lloyd Christopher (Curly) receives his 40 year in Masonry Certificate from Mariner Lodge. WB Mike Henslee picture in the back.
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Marinerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lighthouse
Rock Creek Craftsmen The building arts professionals Kevin Meek Owner 843-270-4987 call and we will build
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Volume 11, Issue 1
In Memoriam—To Our Deceased Brothers
WBro Harold Loftis Shokes, PM Initiated – 09/19/1955
Born – 02/28/1928 Passed – 05/21/1956
WBro Edgar Malcolm Salters, Jr., PM Initiated – 04/04/1969
Raised – 06/18/1956
Born – 06/25/1940 Passed – 05/16/1969
No Deaths Reported or Found in 2011 yet.
Check out our newsletter online at http://www.issuu.com/plumbandlevel Email me if you rather view the newsletter online instead of getting it in the mail—ivey.rc@gmail.com
Died – 11/14/2010
Raised – 06/13/1969
Deaths Since Our Last Newsletter in 2010.
It’s not too late for Ads in 2011 or secure your space for 2012.
Died – 02/06/2009
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Mariner’s Lighthouse The Official Newsletter of Mariner Lodge #2 AFM The year 2000 Consolidation of: Washington #5, Friendship #9, LaCandeur #36, Walhalla #66, & Strict Observance #73
Bring A Friend To Enjoy Dinner With Us. Your Attendance is Requested. Upcoming Calendar Events Feb. 9th—Master & Wardens Club (Mariner Hosting) @ CCMA—Dinner 6:45pm, Meeting 7:30pm Feb 10th—Business Meeting @ CCMA, Dinner 6:45pm, Meeting 7:30pm Feb 12th—Visitation (MM Degree) @ Port Royal Lodge #242, Breakfast 8:30am, Degree 9:30am Feb 21st—FC Degree @ CCMA, Dinner 6:45pm, Meeting 7:30pm Mar 9th—Master & Wardens Club (York Rite Hosting) @ CCMA—Dinner 6:45pm, Meeting 7:30pm Mar 10th—Business Meeting @ CCMA, Dinner 6:45pm, Meeting 7:30pm Mar 12th—SC Masonic Research Society @ CCMA, Meeting 11:00am Mar 19th—Fundraiser @ CCMA, 8:00AM—5:00PM, Comic Convention, Food, Kids Jump Castle, Golf Pro to help adults with their swing. Mar 21st—MM Degree (Conferred by PM’s; Lloyd Christopher (Curly) to preside in the East @ CCMA, Dinner 6:45, Meeting 7:30 Mar 26th—Past Grand Masters Grave marker Dedication, @ Washington Light Infantry Building, Meeting 11:30am, then retire to Magnolia Cemetery Apr 2nd—Scottish Rite KCCH MM Degree (Mariner Lodge Hosting) @ Fort Sumter, 5pm
If your address label on this newsletter says “2010” on it, then our records indicate that you still owe dues for 2011 and you are in arrears. To avoid being dropped from our roles for non-payment of dues (NPD) in October, please remit your 2011 dues before October 31, 2011. Thank you.
RETURN SERVICES REQUESTED Mariner Lodge No. 2 AFM Michael C. Henslee, PM, Secretary 1323 Hermitage Ave Charleston, SC 29412-9221
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION PERMIT NUMBER 158 U.S. POSTAGE PAID CHARLESTON, SC