THE electronic NORTH CAROLINA MASON March/April, 1994 vol. 2 #2 The stripped-down, online version of the real thing The North Carolina Mason Volume CXVIII Ñ No. 2 Published every other month, The North Carolina Mason is the official publication of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina, AF&AM. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Grand Lodge or Board of Publication. Board of Publication Ñ Dalton Mayo, chairman; B. Wesley Lefler Jr. Carroll Simmons, James E. Stratton, and Michael W. Brantley. EDITOR Ñ Ric Carter 126 Arbor Drive Washington, NC 27889 (919) 946-8039 AOL: RicC Please feel free to pass The eNCM along to others. Any suggestions or submissions you might have are welcomed. ANNUAL COMMUNICATION SCHEDULED FOR APRIL Raleigh Ñ The 207th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina will convene April 19. It will last two days. All business sessions will be held in Memorial Auditorium in downtown Raleigh. TuesdayÕs meeting begins at 10:00 a.m. and WednesdayÕs kicks off at 9:00 a.m. Election of officers begins at 11 oÕclock Wednesday morning. Your lodge should soon receive formal notification along with credentials, documents, and other important announcements about the meeting. You must bring these completed credentials with you and present them to the Credentials Committee. The committee will be in the lobby the Radisson Plaza Hotel on Monday afternoon and in the lobby of Memorial Auditorium on Tuesday and Wednesday. DO NOT mail them to the Grand Lodge offices, present them in person. The committee will furnish you with necessary materials. Name tags and disposable aprons will be available in the lobby of Memorial Auditorium. ThereÕll be a number of tylers outside the hall. TheyÕll expect you to give the them the Third Degree pass as well as show them your current dues card. ThereÕs quite a bit to go through in opening the proceedings. The Grand Lodge officers will be received. After Grand Master Rick Moore opens the meeting, past grand masters, and distinguished visitors from other states will be received. These VIPs will each be introduced and seated on the stage. The first dayÕs business will, for the most part, deal with what has transpired over the last year. Miscellaneous reports of committees and boards will be received. Some will be read, others will simply appear in the Proceedings. Grand Master Moore, and Grand Orator Thomas A. Burleson will address the Communication. Memorial services will be conducted for those who passed away in the last year. Business may vary somewhat according to special needs of the session. Wednesday, the second day of the session, will begin at 9:00 a.m. and see more action. ItÕll be up to you to approve or reject the past yearÕs actions of the Grand Master, Judge Advocate, Trial Commissions, Appeals Committee, and others. Their actions do not stand without the approval of the delegates. YouÕll receive and vote on the annual budget. Proposed amendments to The Code as well as resolutions with the weight of law will be considered. Grand Lodge officers for 1994-95 will be elected. It is hoped that business will be finished by lunch time. Installation of new officers will be later in the afternoon after the lodge is closed. It is usually held about 2:30 p.m. at the Masonic Temple on Caswell Street in Raleigh. The Annual Communication is NOT just for delegates and voting members of the Grand Lodge. Every Mason in North Carolina is welcome and encouraged to attend. Annual Communication is not just for work. ItÕs also for meeting others, sharing your ideas, getting new ideas, and having a good time. Hope to see you there. AMENDMENTS TO BE CONSIDERED AT ANNUAL COMMUNICATION Annual Communication means time for you to vote on changes to the laws governing Freemasonry in North Carolina. The following is a short summary of the changes to The Code we will consider in April. The full text of each of the proposed amendments is available from your lodge secretary. Please give thought to each of these questions. Discuss them in your lodge. Some lodges direct their delegates to vote in a certain way. Others suggest a vote, but leave the delegate to modify that opinion based on discussions at Annual Communication. Under any circumstance that vote should be cast carefully and for the good of Masonry. ALLOW USE OF SQUARE AND COMPASSES Why canÕt you put a Masonic emblem on your car? ItÕs forbidden by REG 97-02(48). It makes it a Masonic offense to make or sell the square and compasses for use on a vehicle or business. Gaston 263 has suggested that we repeal that statute. It would make it possible to display Masonic emblems on your car, your cap, clothes, or in fashions other than those currently allowed (ring or lapel pin). The measure would not revoke the authority of the Grand Lodge or Grand Master to deal with any abuse or misuse of the symbol. WAIVER OF JURISDICTION Men wanting to become Freemasons are currently required to petition the lodge nearest their residence. Applying for membership in any other lodge requires the permission of that nearest lodge. A proposal was made at last yearÕs Annual Communication to do away completely with those jurisdictional restraints. The proposing lodge asked for the change because of frustrations in their area. A neighboring lodge was not very active and seldom responded to requests for a waiver of jurisdiction. The measure was defeated by your votes at Grand Lodge. Grand Secretary Pete Dudley promised to help them with a less far-reaching proposal this year. There are two basic changes to be made in the regulations. The first would give the lodge with jurisdiction over a candidate 90 days to respond to a request for waiver. If they did not respond, they would be assumed to have granted the requesting lodge permission to accept the candidateÕs petition. The other change would allow the waiver to be granted to any lodge in the state. ItÕs not unusual for a man to wish to join the home lodge of family members, his home town, or some other nostalgic choice. As we have become more mobile, many of us no longer live near the places we were born and reared. Current law requires that the waiver can only be given in the same or an adjoining Masonic District. Additionally, a clarification of the rules of jurisdiction over the candidate would be made clearer. These changes involve REG 47-06(7), 47-07, and 74-05. ALLOW OFFICERS TO LIVE OUTSIDE STATE Steele Creek 737 is located very near the border of North and South Carolina. A large percentage of their members live south of the border. Many of those men live closer to the lodge than their northern counterparts. The Code forbids any non-resident of the state to hold lodge office. A large pool of good Masons is thus lost for leadership roles. Other lodges face similar circumstances. Steele Creek proposes that we change those rules to allow the utilization of the talent we have sitting just over our borders. There is a possibility that this proposal would require individual review and approval of the Grand Master. These changes involve portions of chapters 61, 63, and 65 of The Code. FIVE DOLLARS PER INITIATION TO MEMORIAL The George Washington Masonic National Memorial in Alexandria, Virginia is perhaps the most recognizable landmark of the Craft. It promotes many aspects of Freemasonry and its appendant bodies. It is owned by the Masons (yes, you) of our country. Like the rest of us, they are experiencing difficulties in maintaining their facility. Grand lodges around the country have adopted various methods of supporting the memorial. Some have added a 50¢ a year assessment to their per capitas. Gerry Tart, our grand treasurer and also our state representative to the memorial, has suggested that we adopt a different measure. His proposal would increase the initiation fee paid to the Grand Lodge for each Entered Apprentice [REG 54-01(2)]. Lodges currently send $11 in fees to the Grand Lodge for each initiate. Ten dollars goes to the charity fund and one dollar to the general fund. Adoption of TartÕs amendment would add five dollars to that amount for the benefit of the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. Grand lodges in all but eight states already donate five dollars per initiate. Averaging our initiation rate over the last five years would indicate that we would be donating over $6,500 per year to the Memorial. DDGLS RECOGNIZED Some years ago, we made District Deputy Grand Lecturers full fledged members of the Grand Lodge. A couple of regulations were missed at the time. Gerald Lee, 42nd DDGL, found these and has asked that they be fixed to bring their rights into line with their station. Currently, the master of a lodge, a grand lodge officer, the district deputy grand master, or a member of a Grand Lodge board, commission, or committee may ask the Grand Master for an official decision involving the rules and regulations of the Craft. Amending REG 9-01(2A) by adding the DDGL to that list is suggested. The other place we forgot to recognize the DDGL was in forbidding anyone to object to his attendance while he is making an official visit to a lodge (REG 58-08). This is the same entitlement currently given to the District Deputy Grand Master. REPEAL GRAVE COMMITTEE Gerald Lee also feels that REG 90-13(6) is so seldom obeyed that it should be removed from The Code. It requires that a committee of three or fewer remain at the grave after a Masonic funeral until the grave is filled. Many feel this rule has outlived its purpose. ALLOW SOME CEREMONIES ON SUNDAY The proposed amendments involving Sunday communications of lodges has been withdrawn by the proposing lodge. They will not be considered. KING SOLOMON 56 SURRENDERS CHARTER Jackson Ñ The first Tuesday night in each month will be even more quiet here now that King Solomon 56 has surrendered its charter to the Grand Lodge. They finally abandoned the struggle they have made for years against shrinking membership. As a result of the decline, reports to the Grand Lodge were not being made on time. The business of the lodge was no longer being handled properly. There was finally no choice but to close the doors of the lodge. There were 39 members on its rolls when King Solomon 56 surrendered its charter. Of those, two were dead and ten others lived well outside the community. Consolidation may well have been a better fate for the Masons in Northhampton County. King Solomon was the oldest of five lodges in that rural county bordering Virginia. King Solomon 56 was chartered in 1810. They were dropped from the roll in 1852 but restored in 1858. Members of the lodge are now considered non-affiliated Masons. Demits will be mailed directly to them. They may use the demits to apply to any area lodge they wish. If you are a member who hasnÕt been contacted, write the Grand Lodge offices and they will send you the information and forms you need. Write P.O. Box 6506, Raleigh, NC 27628. SOFTWARE SOON AVILABLE FOR LODGE SECRETARIES Computer software should soon be available to North Carolina lodges. The program is called ÒScrivener, The ScribeÕs Assistant.Ó ItÕs already used by lodges of the Grand Lodge of Washington. It was selected for us after review of a number of different tools currently available. The program will track membership information including: degree dates, committee membership, Investigating Committee reports, family histories, and keeping track of widows and orphans. It will produce dues statements as well as tracking payment history and contributions. There are also several other chores it will help take care of. The customized version will also generate your annual returns and reports of doings. A utility will be included with the custom version to import your membership roll from the mailing list of The North Carolina Mason. System requirements for the program are an IBM compatible computer with a 386 or better CPU. You will need 5MB space on a hard drive, 2MB of RAM, and a high density floppy disk drive. The customized version will also need Microsoft Windows. Cost for the North Carolina version will be about $200. If enough interest is expressed, a workshop will be held during Annual Communication in April. The Grand Lodge will need a good estimate of the number of copies needed before the software can be customized. Send your notice of interest to Grand Secretary, P.O. Box 6506, Raleigh, NC 27628. WELCOME SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA RESEARCH LODGE We have a rare pleasure with this issue. Since every Mason in North Carolina gets The North Carolina Mason, we get new subscribers every issue. Regrettably, we lack the space to honor them with a welcome. This issue is different we make an exception. Today we gain 4,000 new readers. The Southern California Research Lodge is subscribing for the next year. Each of their members will be getting The NC Mason in their regular mailing. We wish to welcome each of you to our family. We solicit your input just as we look forward to submissions from our Brothers here in the Tarheel State. We hope that you find us a valuable and readable addition to your life. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT SEMINARS The crowds at the annual Research and Development Seminars this year were the largest ever. The attendance shows the widespread interest in the subject of race in Masonry. There has been some misunderstanding about the topic. It does not involve any proposal to be placed before the Grand Lodge. Ordered by the Grand Master, its only purpose is to educate and stimulate discussion. Ancient, Free and Accepted Masonry has been predominantly white in North Carolina since its founding. But, as we all know, we are not the only men expressing Masonic sensibilities. There is also a large unrecognized grand lodge in our state Ñ Prince Hall Grand Lodge. Furthermore there are non-white North Carolinians who are members of grand lodges we do recognize. For years our conversations about race have been handicapped by ignorance, gossip, paranoia, and conscience. Please see the seminars for what they are Ñ an opportunity to learn. The topics addressed do not involve any planned or proposed change in current Masonic law. They donÕt indicate extension of any new recognitions. What we must face are our attitudes and consciences. Our confrontations are not with any body, race, or other Mason. Your personal decisions are answerable only to your God and your sense of right. How will you respond if a Mason of color from a recognized grand lodge asks admission to your lodge? How will you respond if a white Mason from an unrecognized grand lodge raps on the door of your lodge? Can you explain your answers in a Masonic and logical manner? Can you justify your answer? We are proud to carry the message of the Research and Development CommitteeÕs 1994 topic. The presentation has been edited to clarify some questions that have arisen since its presentation across the state. It took courage for the Committee and the Grand Master to deal with a subject so long avoided. We should all thank them. AS WE MOVE TOWARD THE 21ST CENTURY Masonry in North Carolina and the United States is an almost totally segregated group of fraternal organizations, much like America is two separate societies, one black one white. For many years our fraternity has denied access to African Americans. This attitude, no matter how wrong we may view it today, was the prevailing attitude of our society until recently. We as Masons are a reflection of our society. As our society's racial make-up has dramatically changed during the last 30 years, our fraternity is also changing. All barriers for membership based on race have been removed from our Code. If we want our fraternity to survive and prosper into and beyond the 21st century, then we need to practice our fundamental belief that Masonry is a ÒBrotherhood of man under the Fatherhood of God.Ó REGULAR VERSUS CLANDESTINE To aid our discussion we need to define the terms ÒregularÓ Mason and ÒclandestineÓ Mason. A ÒregularÓ Mason is a member of a lodge subordinate to the Grand Lodge of North Carolina, A.F.& A.M. The Grand Lodge of North Carolina has the supreme and only Masonic power and authority over its members. Grand lodges in other states and foreign countries have the same power and authority over their members and subordinate lodges. A ÒregularÓ Mason is also a Mason under the jurisdiction of another grand lodge that is extended formal recognition for the purpose of visitation and fraternal relations by the Grand Lodge of North Carolina. The Grand Lodge of North Carolina is empowered to and does recognize other grand lodges. This is described in Chapter 6 of The Code. A list of recognized Grand Lodges appears in the 1990 List of Lodges published by Pantagraph Printing and Stationary Company. Your lodge secretary should have this book. A ÒclandestineÓ Masonic body is Òone which pretends to be Masonic but is without a warrant, dispensation, or charter from a grand lodge recognized by this grand lodge.Ó These are the definitions offered by The Code and the only rules for acceptable Masonic behavior for North Carolina Masons. A vote of the Grand Lodge is the only way recognition may be offered a grand lodge. The terms recognized, unrecognized, regular, irregular, and clandestine are also used in academic discussions of various Masonic groups. Many Masonic scholars consider Prince Hall Masonry Òregular.Ó This use of the term should not be confused with the technical and legal definition offered by The Code. To visit a ÒclandestineÓ Lodge or converse upon the secrets of Masonry with a member of such a lodge is a serious Masonic offense. The secrets of Masonry are certain words, signs, grips, tokens, and the rituals pertaining to the three degrees. The history and philosophy of Masonry are not secret and can be discussed with any profane, even a ÒclandestineÓ Mason. REGULAR MASONS OF COLOR There are regular African American Masons. They are members of recognized lodges in New York, New Jersey, Vermont, California, Virginia, and many other states. An African-American could now be a member of a regular lodge in North Carolina. However, most African Americans are members of the Prince Hall Grand Lodges which our Grand Lodge does not recognize. The best known regular lodge to have African American members is Alpha Lodge 116 in Newark, New Jersey. After the Civil War, in 1871, Alpha Lodge was formed by a group of abolitionists. They raised three black men as Master Masons in April 1872. Today this lodge is presumably all black, but no official records are kept by the Grand Lodge of New Jersey delineating a Mason's color. Alpha Lodge 116 is very active in New Jersey Masonic work and instruction. Its members participate in the Scottish Rite, York Rite, and Shrine. We recently held Masonic graveside services for a Brother of Alpha Lodge 116. Another well-known recognized lodge with African American Masons is Equity Lodge 106 in Halifax, Canada. According to a recent unofficial estimate by a senior staff member at the Masonic Service Association, about 20 grand lodges recognized by the Grand Lodge of North Carolina have black members. Again no official records are kept concerning a member's race. Prince Hall Masonry has already been recognized as regular by three grand lodges in Canada and eight in the United States. These 11 grand lodges are all recognized by us. There is a possibility that an African American member of a regular grand lodge could visit your lodge. It recently happened in Raleigh, and the brother was welcomed. If this happens in your Lodge, please remember your Masonic teaching about your interactions with ÒÉall mankind, but more especially with the brethren in Masonry.Ó The Ancient Landmarks of Masonry are very clear concerning visitation. Contrary to popular belief, a member of a lodge cannot by himself alone block a visiting regular Mason from attending a lodge meeting. He may raise his objection to the master. The Code suggests, but does not require, that the master support the objecting member. The master of the lodge has the final authority over who will sit in his lodge. As a North Carolina Mason you may visit any lodge that the Grand Lodge of North Carolina recognizes. You are obligated to not knowingly sit in a lodge with clandestinely made Masons. Please remember that regular and clandestine have nothing to do with a manÕs race. HISTORY OF PRINCE HALL MASONRY The largest organization of Masons not recognized by the Grand Lodge of North Carolina is Prince Hall Masonry. It consists of 42 grand lodges and over 500,000 Masons world wide. Today 11 grand lodges recognized by the Grand Lodge of North Carolina recognize Prince Hall Masonry. Who was Prince Hall? LIFE OF PRINCE HALL ¥ Prince Hall was born a slave around the year 1735. ¥ At the age of 14, he was sold to William Hall, a real estate broker and leather worker in Boston. ¥ Prince Hall worked as a leather dresser for William Hall and was allowed to marry at the age of 27. His wife died four years later. ¥ Prince Hall was given his freedom at age 40. He remarried and moved to Gloucester, Massachusetts, where he supported himself by working as a laborer and leather dresser. ¥ At the age of 45, on March 5, 1775, Prince Hall along with 14 other black men became the first Masons of their race initiated in North America. ¥ At the age of 47, he petitioned the Massachusetts legislature to end slavery. When he was 52 he petitioned to establish an African Colony. Liberia was founded several years later. ¥ It is not clear if Prince Hall served in the Army during the Revolutionary War. Several men of the same name did serve. There is, however, a record of him selling leather drums to the Army. ¥ Prince Hall married one more time, at age 69, and died at 72. His obituary was carried in six Boston newspapers. ¥ According to modern historians, Prince Hall was not born a free man in the West Indies of mixed parents, he was not a revolutionary war hero, nor was he an ordained minister. These legends were spread in the early l900s by a Prince Hall Mason trying unnecessarily to embellish the reputation of Prince Hall. EVOLUTION OF PRINCE HALL MASONRY ¥ Prince Hall and 14 other black men were initiated into Masonry at Castle William, in Boston Harbor by Military Lodge 441 attached to the British Garrison, 38th Regiment of Foot, Irish Grand Lodge on March 6, 1775. Sergeant John B. Batt was the Master. ¥ Several grand lodges operated in the American colonies at the time. Prince Hall made application to Dr. Joseph Warren, Provincial Grand Master appointed by the Grand Lodge of Scotland, for a warrant to meet as a lodge. Warren was killed at the Battle of Bunker Hill before any action could be taken on this application. ¥ Prince Hall then applied to John Rowe, Provincial Grand Master of Moderns in England (one of several British grand lodges operating at the time), for a warrant. The black brethren were given a license or permit to meet as a Lodge but not to confer degrees. Written evidence exists to show that African Lodge held meetings from 1779 to 1787. ¥ Vexed by Rowe's failure to grant a charter, Prince Hall applied for and received a warrant from the Mother Grand Lodge of England (Moderns) on September 29, 1784. This warrant was issued to African Lodge 459. This warrant however was not delivered for almost three years. It was delivered by the brother-in-law of the famous American patriot John Hancock. Publicity of this event appeared in Boston newspapers. ¥ On May 6, 1787, African Lodge 459 was formally organized in Boston under a charter with Prince Hall listed as master. This charter, one of the oldest surviving, is housed in a Boston bank vault. ¥ Sensing that white Masons wanted little to do with black Masons, African Grand Lodge was organized on August 24, 1791. White Masons of Saint Andrew's Lodge assisted in the installation ceremonies of Grand Master Prince Hall. Six years later, subordinate lodges were created. On June 24, 1797, African Lodge was chartered in Philadelphia. The next day, Hiram Lodge 3 was chartered in Providence, Rhode Island. ¥ African Grand Lodge got its current name soon after the death of Prince Hall in 1808. The three African lodges met in Boston and changed their name to Prince Hall Grand Lodge to honor their founder. ¥ Many white Masons cite technical and arbitrary reasons why Prince Hall Masonry is not regular. These arguments are primarily based on concurrent jurisdiction (two or more different Grand Lodges occupying the same geographical area). In most of the world, however, it is not uncommon to have several grand lodges operating in the same territory. Neither was it unusual practice in early America. Another argument is that African Lodge 459 was dropped from the roster of lodges when the United Grand Lodge of England reunited the Antient and Modern grand lodges in 1813. Seventy other lodges in the United States, including Saint John's Lodge of Boston, chartered in 1733, were also dropped. That action is considered by many to have been a clerical error. Many scholars and jurisprudence committees agree that Prince Hall Masonry is regular and its formation perfectly proper. The lack of recognition by white grand lodges has more to do with racism than legalities. PRINCE HALL MASONRY TODAY ¥ Prince Hall Masonry is organized into several thousand local lodges in 42 grand lodges. There are over half-a-million Prince Hall Masons. Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Massachusetts sponsors several military lodges near American military bases throughout the world. Most of the famous Buffalo soldiers of the 9th and 10th Cavalry were Prince Hall Masons. ¥ The North Carolina Prince Hall Grand Lodge was chartered in 1870. It has 326 subordinate lodges and over 18,000 members. In addition they have appendant Masonic organizations such as the Scottish Rite, York Rite, Eastern Star, and Shrine. Prince Hall Masonry in North Carolina is growing rapidly especially near military bases. ¥ Prince Hall grand lodges are like other grand lodges in that they are sovereign and individually decide upon what other Masonic bodies they want to recognize. There is little desire among Prince Hall Masons to join the Grand Lodge of North Carolina A.F. & A.M. They are very proud of their Masonic history and Prince Hall Lodges. The subject of recognition by our Grand Lodge is not presently a major issue with North Carolina Prince Hall Masons. However, like all Masons, they are very proud of being Masons and would love to meet all brothers on the level, who are traveling upon the same plane. MASONRY AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO RACISM Masonry is a reflection of our society. The history of our country is a history of racial intolerance. Masonic racial intolerance is not a North versus South issue. In fact, official and unofficial racial intolerance was and is practiced in Northern lodges as well as Southern lodges. Interestingly, racial intolerance in Masonry is primarily a North American phenomenon. European lodges have a long tradition of being racially open. This is perhaps due to their societies in general having a great deal of racial tolerance. The Grand Lodge of North Carolina recognizes Lodges in Africa, India, Asia, South America, and Europe. Black people belong to these lodges. One reason given by many Masons for not wanting to admit African Americans is their belief that the wording Òfree bornÓ in our initiation means never having been a slave or a direct descendant of a slave. In fact Òfree bornÓ comes from the 13th century and refers to being a land owner and not a serf. A serf was indentured to the land and was not free to move about, a condition of economic slavery. Prince Hall Masonry has the same requirement of being Òfree born.Ó WHAT ARE THE CONSEQUENCES OF MASONIC RACISM? Our basic Masonic beliefs and practices of tolerance and the Brotherhood of man under the Fatherhood of God are not always practiced. Excluding people solely because of race is morally indefensible. Our membership will continue to decline as our society becomes more intolerant of racism. Young professionals do not want to be part of a fraternity that is thought of by the general public as being racist. If we do not broaden our membership base to include the many people of our society then our Masonic circle will become smaller and smaller. HOW CAN WE MOVE FORWARD TO THE 21ST CENTURY? If good men ask, then we should help them receive light in Masonry Ñ regardless of race. Our Code has no racial barriers. References to race and African Masonry have long been removed. If a man belongs to a regular lodge, then we must make him welcome regardless of race. Remember the 14th Ancient Landmark of Freemasonry concerning the right of visitation. The Brotherhood of man under the Fatherhood of God is our reason for existence. OXFORD ORPHANAGE OFFERS FREE CALENDAR The folks at Oxford Orphanage and the Print Shop have put together a calendar for you in 1994. It has pictures of and facts about the Orphanage. ItÕs a good looking calendar and you canÕt beat the price Ñ free. You may order them individually, but if you want to be kind to the folks in Oxford, get an order for the entire lodge. Ask your lodge secretary or some other person to send off for them. Contact Phil Donovant, Printing Department, Oxford Orphanage, 600 College Street, Oxford, NC 27565-2758. EXPERIENCE APLENTY AT THE CORNERS Winston-Salem Ñ ThereÕs plenty of experience at the corners of Forsyth 707Õs lodge room. The officers at the corners have held their positions for extraordinary times. W.E. Cheshire. HeÕs been tyler for 24 straight years. Raeford Nifong has been secretary for 35 consecutive years. Gene Butner is beginning his 34th year without interruption as treasurer. ThatÕs 93 total years of practice at their stations. Do they still have to be installed or are they just considered landmarks in the lodge? WASHINGTON LODGES GIVE LIBRARY FLAG POLE Washington Ñ Some years ago, George and Laura Brown bequeathed their home and an endowment to establish the public library in Washington. George was a Mason. The library, after extensive public fund raising, was refurbished and enlarged in 1993. Members of Orr 104 and Washington 675 noticed that a flag pole was missing from the plan. In a renewed spirit of cooperation between the two lodges, they bought and installed a 30-foot pole at the libraryÕs new front entrance. A stone memorial was placed at the base of the pole saluting t the base of the pole saluting Òthe memory of George H. Brown and the other Freemasons who built our community, state, and nation.Ó A five by eight foot flag, flown over the Capitol for the library, was donated by Senator (and Brother) Jesse Helms. MAINTAINING A CLASS LINE IN GARNER Garner Ñ There must have been something special going on at Garner High School in the mid-50s. When Monte B. Ross was installed master of Vandora 745, he became the third member of the Garner High class of 1957 to assume the East there. Fletcher Powell was the first when he served in 1974. Alex Umstead followed in 1978. Monte will have experience on his side this year when he looks to the stewardsÕ chairs. William Cramer was born in 1916 and Horace Johnson was born in 1918. No one would dare refer to either as the junior officer regardless of station. TRAVELERS OF THE TARHEEL STATE NEWS FROM THE LODGES ASHEBORO Ñ ThereÕs a new speakerÕs podium at Asheboro 699. It was given to the lodge by Joseph R. SuggsÕ family on his 50th anniversary in the lodge. A plaque on the podium commemorates the presentation. Asheboro set up a few attendance challenges a while back. Last yearÕs reports are in. Twenty-four got Excellent Attendance recognition. That means they attended 22 lodge meetings during the year. Ten men made the visitation roster for attending a meeting at every lodge in the district in 1993. Ñ Asheboro Lodge No. 699. * * * * RICHLANDS Ñ Charlie B. Huffman recently got the 75th Anniversary Commemorative Medal for his military service in World War I. At age 98, he is the oldest living member of Richlands 564. He supplied the timber to build their lodge in 1953. Ñ Otis Whaley. * * * * FRANKLINTON Ñ Bruce Cameron Shearon of Franklinton 123 and Mariposa, California 24 recently died. He was a fighter pilot aboard the USS Lexington in World War II. He was awarded the Flying Cross and Navy Cross for his part in sinking the Japanese aircraft carrier Shokaku in the battle of the Coral Sea, a turning point in the Pacific Theater. He had lived in California for 30 years. Ñ Benjamin Park Terrell. * * * * HILLSBOROUGH Ñ Robert Harris Pope of Eagle 19 recently got his Scottish Rite 50-year pin and certificate. William L. Kilpatrick, secretary of the New Bern Scottish Rite Bodies, presented the recognitions. Pope became a Mason in 1937 and Òstill enjoys Masonry at Eagle 19.Ó Ñ William Finley, PM Eagle 19. * * * * CLIFFSIDE Ñ Buren Huskey was posthumously named Mason of the Year at Cliffside 460. The award was accepted by his sons (both Masons) and his wife. Ñ Cliffside Lodge No. 460. * * * * FAYETTEVILLE Ñ The frustration of 679 should serve as an inspiration to the rest of us. They fell short of their goal in helping the Home and Orphanage in 1993. They only raised $16,000+. We should all be so shamed. Chester Giddens was named Mason of the Year at Creasy Proctor 679. Ñ The Trestle Board. Have you ever been nervous about visiting a strange lodge alone? Does the idea of a Masonic examination give you a case of the sweats? Join the rest of us. Phoenix 8 got Louis O. Dean to do a skit in lodge to help familiarize members with the procedure. They promised answers to all questions during the program. The lodge voted to allow the city to proceed with a Òlinear parkÓ that will run along the creek bank behind the lodge. Ñ Phoenix Lodge No. 8. * * * * SELMA Ñ The 25 widows of Selma 320 got poinsettias at the holidays this season. The lodgeÕs new flagpole had arrived, but hadnÕt been put up the last we heard from them. Ñ Selma Lodge #320. * * * * EDENTON Ñ Unanimity 7 had its third Annual Charter Night in November. They celebrated kicking off their 219th year. Ñ The Trestle Board. * * * * SOUTHERN PINES Ñ Elwood Blake and Joseph Steed recently got their VeteranÕs Awards from Southern Pines 484. Ñ Southern Pines Lodge #484 * * * * RALEIGH Ñ In December, Masters 754 made their usual trip to The Masonic and Eastern Star Home to deliver fruit and other holiday goodies. Ñ The Trowel. Raleigh 500 was the host when they held a joint installation with Hiram 40 and William G. Hill 218. Ñ Raleigh Lodge, No. 500. * * * * MEBANE Ñ The Home and Orphanage were both to benefit from the January Stew Sale at Bingham 272. Ñ BinghamÕs News and Views. * * * * GREENSBORO Ñ P.P. Turner 746 will celebrate their 25th anniversary this year. They have voted to get costumes for their Third Degree presentations. They are currently soliciting contributions for the fund. The first addition is especially authentic, having been obtained by their Brother Mazen Karam while he was in the Middle East. Basil Foulk has been named Mason of the Year and made a Lifetime Member at Turner 746 Ñ Trestleboard. Gate City 694Õs Brunswick Stew last fall sold out in record time. More than $1,600 was sent to the HomeÕs Care Center Building Fund. Butch BaynesÕs nursery and daycare center hosted when Gate City 694 had the kids form the Orphanage in town for a barbecue lunch. Gifts were distributed to the 29 children who were there. More than 150 people attended. Ñ The Trestle Board. Revolution 552 made their annual Christmas visit to Oxford Orphanage. After a Sunday dinner in the cafeteria, Santa and some Masonic elves visited the children. Ñ The Bi-Monthly Newsletter. * * * * LAURINBURG Ñ TheyÕre planning a guest speaker at second communication each month at Laurinburg 305 this year. Bill Phillips was scheduled for January with a presentation about Alcoholics Anonymous. Ñ The Masonic Messenger. * * * * KENANSVILLE Ñ J.B. Stroud, Lewis Westbrook, and Deleon Quinn got fifty-year awards at St. JohnÕs 13 in January. When they installed officers, they sent out special invitations to lodge widows. Ñ Lodge Log. * * * * KINSTON Ñ Fruit baskets went out to the widows of St. JohnÕs 4 in December. Their October fund raiser sent $650 to Masonic charities. The dues at St. JohnÕs have gone up to $60 for 1994. Ñ The Trestle Board. * * * * CHARLOTTE Ñ Unable to narrow things down any further, Steele Creek 737 has named two Masons of the Year: Jack Austin and Bob Braswell. Profits from their annual barbecue are expected to reach $7,000 this year. Ñ Steele Creek Lodge No. 737. * * * * WINSTON-SALEM Ñ They held a Go To Church With the Master in early December at Old Town 751. Old Town Baptist was their destination. They discussed the direction of the lodge for the coming years at a December open forum. Mike Snyder personally packed the lodge hall for his installation as master of 751. He introduced each of the 25 family members he had on hand. That should prove he wonÕt have any trouble remembering past mastersÕ names for introductions. Ñ On the Level at Old Town Lodge. * * * * GOLDSBORO Ñ James Peacock got his VeteranÕs Award for 50 years of service from Goldsboro 634 in December. Ñ News Letter. * * * * MANTEO Ñ The Willett R. Tillett Memorial Masonic Library was dedicated at Manteo 521 in November. The ceremony was attended by his wife, mother, and other family members. Willett passed away in 1990 while serving as senior grand warden. Ñ More Light. * * * * THOMASVILLE Ñ The number of 50-year Masons at Thomasville 214 was nearly doubled recently when four men were added to that roll. The new Veterans were Vernon Chapman, Fred Ferguson, S.T. Stoker, and W.P. Westmoreland. Ñ Trestle Board. * * * * SALISBURY Ñ They do what they can to seduce you into coming to the annual communication at Andrew Jackson 576. If the chance to vote on next yearÕs officers isnÕt enough to get you out, theyÕll fill you up with clam chowder. Jim Johnson was given the 1993 L.C. Lake Award for Lifetime Masonic Service there. Ñ The MasterÕs Journal. * * * * WILMINGTON Ñ The Tenth Masonic District held a blood drive in December. Ñ The Trestleboard. Wilmington 319 is currently updating its by-laws. It is their first reexamination since 1969. They are asking for review and comments for any suggested changes from their members. Ñ The Wilmington Mason. St. JohnÕs 1 presented a 60-Year Award to Horace T. King and a 50-Year to Herman H. Hall recently. Ñ The Trestleboard. * * * * PAW CREEK Ñ West Gate 738 gave VeteranÕs Awards to Roland Smith and Jack Worley this past December. The same night 22 of their members got 25-year awards. Ñ West Gate Lodge #738. * * * * DENTON Ñ George Wood, of Denton 404, got his VeteranÕs Award recently. The widowÕs of the lodge got poinsettias for Christmas. They also got socks donated by Cid Hosiery Mill. Ñ Denton Masonic Lodge #404. * * * * HICKORY Ñ Lodge dues at Hickory 343 went to $50 January 1. Ñ Hickory Lodge No. 343. * * * * DENVER Ñ Bill High Mull is retiring as treasurer of Denver 757. WhatÕs the big deal? HeÕs the only treasurer theyÕve had since the lodge opened in 1980. Does he get to take his chair with him? Ñ The Trestleboard. * * * * OLD FORT Ñ Even a dog that wonÕt answer when you call needs a name. Joppa 401 has had a newsletter for quite a while. They now think itÕs time for it to have a name. TheyÕre asking for suggestions. Ñ Joppa Lodge No. 401. * * * * ALBEMARLE Ñ Simeon Valentine Brooks got his Diamond Jubilee VeteranÕs Emblem for 60 years membership at Stanly 348Õs Awards Night. Stephan Andrew Boaz Jr. also got his 50-Year Award the same night. Twelve men got 25-Year awards. Ñ Tom Mauldin. * * * * SWANSBORO Ñ William Mattocks Sanders got his 50-Year Award at Seaside 429Õs recent WidowsÕ/Past MastersÕ Night. The same night, they hung a portrait of Lee K. Gearhart whose widow was on hand for the dedication. Ñ Ed Wilburn. * * * * BLACK MOUNTAIN Ñ The Brothers at Black Mountain 663 are about to find out the real value of Jim Helgreen. Jim is retiring soon and will have to give up doing their newsletter. ThatÕll be quite a change. Jim and his staff have produced it at no cost to the lodge for 14 years. We suspect thereÕll be a lot more to be learned than just how to pay for it. Have a good retirement, Jim. Ñ Black Mountain Lodge No. 663. * * * * MONROE Ñ A committee of Masons from the 39th District has been formed to start a DeMolay chapter. Call Rusty Robinson at 821-6381 if you know a young men in that area wishing to participate. Ñ Truth Lodge No. 749. * * * * KING Ñ TheyÕve decided to preserve a little of their past at King 722. TheyÕre going to mount and frame their officer aprons. On a more practical note, theyÕre also being urged to find a new stove for the kitchen. Snip Hutchens is to be congratulated on his recent VeteranÕs Award. Ñ King Lodge News. * * * * PIKEVILLE Ñ Renovations on the bathroom at Harmony 340 are finished. That means itÕs time to start planning the work to be done upstairs. The Brothers there intend to hold pancake breakfasts twice a year. The first is scheduled for April. Ñ Harmony Lodge # 340. * * * * SMITHFIELD Ñ Fifty-six poinsettias were distributed to widows of the lodge at Christmas. Fellowship hosted the local DeMolay for dinner in January. Ñ The Trestleboard. * * * * JACKSONVILLE Ñ Semper Fidelis 680 closed out their drive to purchase new seating in mid-February. The last count we got a few weeks before the deadline was 53 seats sold, 38 to go. Ñ Semper Fidelis Lodge. * * * * WALLACE Ñ E.G. Warren, of Wallace 595, recently received his 50-year award from the Grand Lodge. Ñ Bulletin of Wallace Lodge No. 595. ACCORDING TO JIMROD This four-hundred-pounder named Twiddy Got his Third in Elizabeth City When the work was done There had been great fun For all but the canvas committee Ñ BY JIMROD Q. WAXPILLOW RUSSIANS OPEN LODGE The spirit of Freemasonry has been kept alive in Russia. Early last year, some fourteen Russian Freemasons, who had kept the flame alight, received a charter from the National Grand Lodge of France. This new lodge is called Harmony 1, and is presently holding meetings in a Moscow hotel while they look for more permanent quarters. They are looking for a particular site Ñ a Moscow building where their namesake, Harmony Lodge, was consecrated originally. Their first master is a professor at Moscow University, while the senior warden is Alexander Rimsky-Korsakov, the grandson of the great Russian composer. Ñ From The Victorian Mason, Winter, 1993. THE GEORGE WASHINGTON NATIONAL MASONIC MEMORIAL George Washington served as the charter master of Alexandria-Washington 22 in Alexandria, Virginia at the same time he served as President of the United States. They were left to protect many Masonic relics of Washington. In 1910 representatives of 18 grand lodges assembled to help them decide what to do. They planned a special monument. President Calvin Coolidge and Chief Justice William Howard Taft laid the cornerstone for the George Washington National Masonic Memorial in 1923. They used the same trowel used by Washington to lay the cornerstone of the Capitol. In 1932 President Herbert Hoover assisted in dedicating the monument before a crowd of 25,000. There are stained glass windows, murals, and dioramas depicting Masonic history as well as George WashingtonÕs. You can see the masterÕs chair used by Washington and his apron among other memorabilia. Elevators move on a diagonal as they reach the seven levels of the tower. There are displays in the tower from the appendant bodies of Masonry. ThereÕs a museum, library, and an observation deck offering a fine view of the Potomac River and the District of Columbia. The facilities include a large auditorium and a lodge room frequently used by visiting lodges from around the country for special communications. KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN Always keep your eyes open. You never know when you might run into a note from Freemasons. Doug Bristow toured many interesting areas while he was on vacation in New England. One in particular, the Mt. Washington Cog Railway in New Hampshire, really captured his attention. That cog rail train climbs a three-mile route to the 6,700-foot summit of Mt. Washington. It is the second steepest railway in the world. One trestle, called "Jacob's Ladder" has a 37% grade. On this journey to the summit, the highest peak in the Northeast, each locomotive consumes a ton of coal and a thousand gallons of water while pushing a single car for passengers to the top of this magnificent mountain. ThereÕs a restaurant and a weather station at the top. This station recorded the highest winds in the world (231 mph) in 1934. The train has run since 1869. Bristow says the Sherman Adams Observation Center at the top has an interesting plaque. It reads: White Mountain Lodge No 86 F. & A. M. Whitefield, N.H. Worked the M.M. Degree on the Summit September 13, 1953 137 Masons from 27 Lodges were present Ñ From On the Level at Old Town Lodge. ENCOMPASSING THE WORLD NEWS FROM AROUND THE WORLD OKLAHOMA Ñ The Masons of Oklahoma made some interesting changes in their by-laws at their last annual communication. They clarified that penalties given in the ritual work are symbolic only. A word to that effect was added to each obligation. Oklahoma Masons may now openly run for some grand lodge offices. Any master or past master of an Oklahoma lodge may now declare his candidacy for grand warden, grand secretary, grand treasurer, or grand lecturer. He is required to pay a fee of $100 when registering with the grand secretary. The fee is refunded if the candidate gets at least 10% of the votes. The petition for the degrees has been updated to make it more Òfriendly.Ó Schools seem to frequently profit from the interest of Oklahoma lodges. Albert Pike 162 put two sets of encyclopedia and other reference books in a local school library. Enid 80 sent a check that made it possible for a local sixth grade class to join the Young Astronauts Program. Ñ The Oklahoma Mason. * * * * IOWA Ñ Jerrold R. AndersonÕs term as grand master of Iowa coincides with the 150th anniversary of the Craft in that state. His theme for the year is ÒPreserving Freemasonry Through Our Masonic Youth.Ó He hopes to present $1,000 scholarships to 50 graduating seniors in his state this year. Mason jars will be offered to each Mason attending Grand Lodge Communication this year. Change tossed into those jars will be sent to DeMolay, Rainbow, and JobÕs Daughters. Their Sesquicentennial Celebration will produce many new products and souvenirs for those interested. ThereÕll be special lapel pins, aprons, watches, a video (ÒMasonry in the HeartlandÓ), an update on the grand lodgeÕs history, place mats, plates, and a special petition for the degrees. A Sesquicentennial quilt will be auctioned at Grand Lodge. Proceeds will send a copy of the video tape ÒOpening the Doors to FreemasonryÓ to every county seat library in the state. When a Postville school discovered moisture problems that required moving some classes, Brotherly Love 204 handed over the keys to the lodge. Fifty third graders found a new home there while their class was repaired. Ñ Grand Lodge Bulletin. * * * * INDIANA Ñ The Grand Lodge of Indiana is holding workshops around the state for lodge secretaries. TheyÕll Òcuss and discussÓ various topics of common interest. Indiana Masons plan an official visit to the Shrine Crippled ChildrenÕs Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky. TheyÕll take a four-and-one-half-hour police-escorted motorcade through several cities between Indianapolis to Lexington. Red Skelton, one of the countryÕs all-time favorite comedians, got his Indiana Grand Lodge Award of Gold in November. Red was raised September 1939 by Vincennes 1 in Vincennes, Indiana where he is still a member. Ñ The Indiana Freemason. * * * * WISCONSIN Ñ A dramatic re-enactment of the founding of the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin kicked off the celebration of their 150th anniversary in December. It was held in Madison, the state capital. The Grand Lodge of Wisconsin is taking applications for Grand Masonic Center Administrator. TheyÕre asking five years of experience in supervision or management, strength in bookkeeping and communication, and computer literacy. TheyÕd prefer one knowledgeable in Freemasonry. They plan to pay $28,000 to $38,000 annually. The Grand Secretary will continue to perform the duties of that office, but without the burdens of day-to-day office management. A similar set-up has been successful in Nebraska and Michigan. Ñ The Wisconsin Masonic Journal. * * * * WASHINGTON Ñ Grand Master of Washington Kenneth S. Robinson is writing a personal letter to each Mason about to be dropped for non-payment of dues in his state. He reports his results to be rewarding. ÒIf a Brother needs assistance or a little encouragement, it is our duty to respond,Ó reminded Robinson. Washington is holding its second Wardens Workshop and Retreat in March. ThereÕll be groups for wives, too. Baby-sitting will also be provided so that the whole family can attend. Calendar sales by the grand lodge here have brought in more that $42,000 for their Scholarship Endowment, Drug Foundation Program, and public relations. PR expenditures so far include helping the Masonic Rose Parade float and getting a portable fair exhibit. Ñ Washington Masonic Tribune. * * * * NEW JERSEY Ñ The Grand Lodge of New Jersey is opening its own computer bulletin board. ThereÕll be five lines accessing the computer at 1200 to 9600 baud. ItÕll allow e-mail to and from the grand lodge office, forums on selected topics, announcement postings from individual lodges, and after hours calling. A new column in The New Jersey Freemason is ÒComputer Corner.Ó John Miluzzo will be answering questions from local lodges on their software and equipment. It will also serve to introduce improvements and changes in their Lodge Software, currently in version 2.1. Campaign 2000 has been begun there. It aims to put $2,500,000 into the Grand Lodge Permanent Fund by the year 2000. They aim to get sufficient yield from it to keep up with operating expenses of their grand lodge. Ñ The New Jersey Freemason. * * * * PHILIPPINES Ñ Rizal D. Aportadera was installed as grand master at the 77th Annual Grand Communication. His theme for the year is ÒMasonry: In Spirit and Deed.Ó Philippine President Fidel Ramos addressed the communication. Ñ The Cabletow. * * * * MINNESOTA Ñ Ray Schlemmer, grand secretary of Minnesota, has come up with an interesting idea. Some lodges have money tucked away in low interest accounts. Other lodges need to borrow money for projects. Why not get them together? Interest rates would improve for both. RayÕs asking for input. The Minnesota Grand Lodge Education Committee is presenting each new candidate in the state with a copy of Allen RobertsÕ book The Craft and Its Symbols. Ñ The Minnesota Mason. * * * * VIRGINIA Ñ We join Masons everywhere in wishing Virginia Grand Master Werner H. Morlock a continued and speedy recovery. His leukemia is now in remission. He is on a limited schedule while he undergoes treatment at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Confederate Gray and Yankee Blue were the colors of the day when Winchester Hiram 21 celebrated its 225th birthday. Winchester is the site of shoot outs staged by the North-South Skirmish Association. Members of the Association attended in their War Between the States era uniforms. More than 100 skirmishers from 12 states were there. Ñ The Virginia Masonic Herald. * * * * KENTUCKY Ñ A resolution to ban smoking in KentuckyÕs lodge rooms in Kentucky was defeated at their October Annual Communication. Ñ Masonic Home Journal. * * * * ARIZONA Ñ Citing a Òbudget crunch,Ó the Grand Lodge of Arizona dropped the January and February issues of Arizona Masonry. Grand Master Robert F. Hannon will recommend publishing only 6 issues next year rather than the usual ten. Ñ Arizona Masonry. * * * * MISSOURI Ñ The Masons of Missouri voted at their last annual communication to raise their per capita tax by 50¢. Half will go to maintenance of the George Washington National Masonic Memorial in Alexandria, Virginia. The other half is designated for the Grand Lodge Masonic Scholarship Fund. They expect to triple the number of scholarships currently awarded. A six-state Outdoor Degree Festival is scheduled for Defiance, Missouri on July 30Ð31. The Master Mason Degree will be conferred by teams from Arkansas, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, and Oklahoma. Ñ The Missouri Freemason. * * * * MAINE Ñ There are 127 public high schools in Maine. For the second straight year, at least one Masonic $500 college scholarship was awarded in each of them. The program began with 65 scholarships in 1988. The Committee on Masonic Education and Lodge Service is planning its third Masonic Retreat. One of the topics scheduled for the October event is anti-Masonry. Ñ The Maine Mason. * * * * IDAHO Ñ The Grand Lodge of Idaho has started a newsletter. The Idaho Freemason is small for now. We wish it growth and success. The first issue was mailed to lodge officers last summer. They are offering it for subscription at $5 a year. We wish them good luck and more solid financing. Minidoka CountyÕs Historical Society is adding a replica of an old lodge room to its museum housed in an old railroad station. Local lodges are doing much of the work. They have also furnished artifacts from St. Johns 15 and Heyburn 46. Ñ The Idaho Freemason. * * * * NEBRASKA Ñ There will be a couple of featured programs as Nebraska holds its 1994 Annual Communication. A team from Keewatin 417 in Ontario, Canada will exemplify opening and closing the three degrees Canadian style. TheyÕll have a special workshop for new secretaries. Workshops of wider interest are on ÒMasonryÕs Relationship with ReligionÓ and ÒMasonic Renewal.Ó Ñ The Nebraska Mason. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ON OUR GRAND LODGE BY-LAWS The Code is a complex document. Its rules are sometimes open to interpretation. It does not contain all the rules Masons are expected to follow. We are affected by other resolutions and edicts that are not collected in any central document, only our Annual Proceedings. This column should, therefore, not be considered authoritative. It is only a guide to the regulations recorded in The Code. Final answers remain within the authority of the Grand Lodge only. Question: A couple of years ago we had a Fellow Craft who was called up by the National Guard to serve in Desert Storm. It was over a year before he did his catechism and was raised. I thought you only had six months to get your next degree. Answer: You do have only six months. That is unless you canÕt present yourself because of military service. REG 81-08 gives men in service six months from the time of their discharge from the service. Question: We had a guy petition our lodge last summer that I remember us rejecting about ten years ago. IÕve looked everywhere for the report the investigating committee and canÕt find it. Is a copy on file anywhere else? Answer: ThereÕd better not be. Lodge secretaries are charged to be diligent in their filing and record keeping. But REG 75-03 is unusual in that it orders the secretary to destroy the report of the investigating committee when a candidate is rejected. Question: IÕm on an investigating committee that canÕt agree on what we should report about the man weÕre investigating. What should we do? Answer: Well, that depends. If two of you agree, the master may order a ballot (REG 75-10). A minority report from the member not agreeing is called for by REG 75-11. If two members of the committee disagree and the third fails to report, the master may remove the member failing to report and appoint a replacement (REG 75-10). A ballot on the petition may not be taken within 21 days of the new appointment. Question: I know for a fact that an investigating committee at our lodge failed to turn up something I know about about a guy who wants to get in our lodge. I wanted to reject the report of the committee, but the master wouldnÕt entertain my motion. What can I do? Answer: You canÕt and shouldnÕt do anything. Your master did exactly the right thing. REG 75-12 specifically forbids any action on that report. The ballot upon the petition is the proper place for you to exercise your convictions. Question: I hear the master say ÒIf there is no objection, we will proceed toÉÓ before we begin any degree work. What if someone objects? Answer: Between a candidateÕs election and initiation, any member of the lodge, present in open lodge, may request another ballot on the petition (REG 81-02). That ballot shall be taken at the next stated communication. It is treated in the same way as any other ballot. The reason for the objection is not be asked and the name of the member objecting may not be recorded in the lodge minutes [REG 81-02(3)]. Neither master [67-09(5)] nor even grand master [16-06(10)] may overrule or demand a reason for such actions. Things are different for objections to advancement after initiation. In those cases, according to REG 81-03, the objecting member must file charges of un-Masonic conduct against the candidate. Regulation 81-04 allows the objection to be made in open lodge or in writing at any time before the advancement. Getting the next degree is stayed pending the outcome of trial. If charges are not filed within ten days, advancement goes on as if nothing happened. If the candidate is acquitted, advancement again continues as if nothing happened. Time spent resolving the objection is not charged against the time used between degrees. He still has six months to advance starting with his acquittal [REG 81-04(2)]. Even with conviction, REG 81-04(1) advancement may proceed after the candidate serves his sentence and is reinstated FROM OUR MASONIC HOMES THE MASONIC AND EASTERN STAR HOME Early January was extremely cold with the temperatures in the low thirties and twenties. Of the two boilers, only the large one could sustain the heat and hot water needed. Severe cold with temperatures in the single digits occurred over the weekend of January 15 and 16. With the exception of a large blower fan in Linville, that was off for two hours, the boilers and all equipment connected with heating performed amazingly well. * * * * * New adjustments to the valves in the steam room are being made in an attempt to keep the hot water in the kitchen, laundry, and Bennette Building at the appropriate temperature. * * * * * The Superintendent participated in a one-day seminar at the Charlotte Scottish Rite Temple in late January. The seminar was conducted by Brother Doug Mayes and his able assistants. The seminar was about communication skills when dealing with the media and, more specifically, training for TV interviews. Also participating were the Orphanage Superintendent, the Grand Secretary, the Grand Line Officers, and the Scottish Rite Secretaries. * * * * * The Superintendent and his wife, Jill, were guests of Robbinsville Chapter 224, OES in early February. Sister Opal Long, PGM, was responsible for this Home educational meeting. * * * * * Eight architectural firms were here in late January to tour the buildings and grounds. The purposes were: ¥ To evaluate our current structures in terms of life expectancy and current usefulness (electrical and mechanical systems) ¥ To propose a long-range plan (not to exceed 10 years) to improve, replace or add to our current site in order to meet the needs of our future residents ¥ To propose a phased development plan and cost estimates for meeting the proposed long range plan Residential Statistics I have listed below statistical tables of the service provided to our residents for the year 1993 pertaining to enrollment, days of care, and the waiting list. Some comparisons between the years 1992 and 1993 have also been made. The year-end enrollment of 190 was 12 less than in 1992. Why this difference? There were three deaths in October, one in November, and four in December. A death in the Bass Care Center does not create a vacancy in the residential area for an applicant on the waiting list. Furthermore, a vacancy in the residential area requires room renovation and a pre-admission conference before the admission of a new resident. For the year 1993 as compared to 1992, there were two fewer admissions and four more deaths, and two withdrawals. The average daily enrollment was 197 in 1993 and 202 in 1992. Enrollment Men Women Total Total Enrollment (1/1/93) 37 164 2Ol Admissions 6 14 20 Total Cared For 43 178 221 Withdrawals 1 1 2 Deaths 4 25 29 Total Enrollment (12/31/93) 38 152 190 Days of Care Men Women Total Total Possible for Census (1/1/93) 13,505 59,860 73,365 Total Possible for Admissions 1,082 2,185 3,267 Total Possible 14,587 62,045 76,632 Total Days Not Used by Withdrawals 127 127 254 Total Days Not Used by Deceased 888 3,713 4,601 Total Days of Care 1993 13,572 58,205 71,777 Average Daily Enrollment 37 160 197 Waiting List Men Women Total Number of Applicants on Waiting List(1/1/93) 30 80 110 Number of Applications Approved 10 23 33 Total Number of Approved Applicants 40 103 143 Number of Admissions 6 14 20 Number Removed from Waiting List (By Death or Choice) 5 9 14 Number of Applicants on Waiting List (12/31/93) 29 80 109 Notable Comparisons Between 1992 and 1993 Enrollment 1992 1993 Admissions 22 20 Deaths 25 29 Withdrawals 0 2 Total Cared For 226 221 Year End Enrollment 202 190 Days of Care 1992 1993 Total Days of Care 74,079 71,777 Average Daily Enrollment 202 197 Waiting List 1992 1993 Number of Applicants Approved 34 33 Number of Applicants at YearÕs End 110 109 OXFORD ORPHANAGE MAKING ADJUSTMENTS CAN BE POSITIVE Have you ever thought how the child, who is recommended for admission to Oxford Orphanage, makes the adjustments once he or she arrives on our campus? As each child has his own personality, it is encouraging to see and hear this young person adapt to our large family. Trying to get acquainted with a new home and a different set of friends is never easy. But, after hearing many of the situations our children have come from to be placed at Oxford Orphanage, you have to admire them for their determination and flexibility. I remember on many occasions a new child would talk about his or her past. They would say they were glad to be at Oxford Orphanage but there was that feeling of missing home in spite of the situations they were living in at the time. This is a normal feeling. I have also found, that after about a week, most of the adjustments have been made. The child has been accepted by his peers and on several occasions, a new boyfriend or girlfriend has been found. Being young and handsome or pretty has its qualities and all of our children fit quite well in both of these categories. I remember on one occasion, a new 14-year-old girl was sitting on the couch in the lobby of the Administration Building waiting to go to the doctor for her physical. Several of the adults had tried to cheer her up but there still remained that sad look on her face. Just before she left for her appointment, several of our 15-year-old boys walked through the lobby and spoke to all of us including our new girl. After they walked away, our girl said, "Do those boys live here? They seem so happy!" After a positive response we have not seen this young lady sad a single moment since. She has been at Oxford Orphanage for over a year. As a matter of information, our young lady in this story has maintained a wonderful friendship with these boys but her concentration has been on her studies and playing sports. Children arrive from various parts of our state to receive quality care, love, and stability. Our staff is committed to helping each child make his or her adjustments. In many cases, it is the children already living at this beautiful Masonic home who help the new child feel complete and a part of the family. In February 1994, Oxford Orphanage celebrated 121 years of quality care to those wonderful and deserving children who have and continue to need love, guidance, and hope. We presently have 160 children. Although we are older than any other childcare facility in our state, we are improving with age. With your support and prayers, Brethren, we will continue to provide many wonderful opportunities for the children you recommend to us. You are encouraged to be sensitive to the children in your area. We still have room to accommodate 40 more children. We would be delighted to assist those children you feel would benefit from our many programs. If you need assistance or material on how to admit a child or information about your Oxford Orphanage, please do not hesitate to write or call. We will gladly respond to you. Our telephone number is (919)693-5111. The address is: Oxford Orphanage, 600 College St., Oxford, NC 27565. Thank you for all you do to help our children. If your Masonic lodge is sponsoring a child or children at Oxford Orphanage, remember to visit or write a note to them and let them know they are remembered and supported by their Masons back home. You would be amazed at how this helps the child to make his or her adjustments at Oxford Orphanage. May God continue to bless you throughout this New Year as you are a wonderful blessing to your large family at Oxford Orphanage. With deep appreciation, David Grissom Superintendent NC HIGHWAY PATROL VISITS Members of the Highway Patrol formed the N.C. Troopers Association over six years ago. They visit hospitals and other facilities that care for youngsters offering the kids support and encouragement. When they visited Oxford Orphanage, they brought teddy bears, books, and jellies. Superintendent David Grissom expressed appreciation for the kindnesses adding that, ÒThe bears have been spread to many rooms on our campus, and the jellies have been spread on many pieces of bread.Ó HOWÕS THIS THING WORK? The new assistant to the grand secretary stood before the paper shredder, looking confused. ÒNeed some help?Ó the grand secretary asked. ÒYes,Ó he replied, ÒHow does this thing work?Ó ÒSimple,Ó said the grand secretary, taking the fat document from his assistantÕs hand and feeding it into the shredder. ÒThanks,Ó said his assistant, ÒBut where do the copies come out?Ó Ñ Grand Lodge Bulletin of Alberta, Canada. THE UNIVERSAL RULE OF BROTHERHOOD ÒWhat is hateful to you, do not to your fellowman. That is the entire Law; all the rest is commentary.Ó Ñ Jewish version, Talmud, Shabbat, 31a ÒTherefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law of the prophets.Ó Ñ Christian version, Bible, Matthew 7:12 ÒHurt not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful.Ó Ñ Buddhist version, Udana-Varga 5,18 ÒSurely it is the maxim of loving kindness: Do not unto others that you would not have them do unto you." Ñ Confucian version, Analects 15, 23 ÒNo one of you is a believer until he desires for his brother that which he desires for himself." Ñ Islamic version, Sunnah Ñ Oregon Masonic News, April, 1992. THE BIG SANDPILE It was a big sandpile. So big that a large group could play in the center with all their friends and the fine big old truck that was starting to show its age with bruised paint, a squeak when the bed was raised, and one wheel askew. Smaller groups played around the edge of the sandpile but since they did not ask to play in the center, and really didn't bother anyone, the group in the middle ignored them. This went on for some time but the group in the center grew smaller, and one of the groups on the edge began to grow. As the group at the center of the sandpile became smaller, it noted that visitors from other sandpiles who had previously played only with it, stopped and visited and played with the group at the edge of the sandpile, too. In fact, some of those visitors who had previously played only with the group in the center came and played longer and longer with the group on the edge Ñ and went away without playing with the group in the center. Finally the group in the center became irate and told one of the groups that used to visit and play only with the group in the center, that as long as they played with the group on the edge of the sandpile, they could not play with the group in the center. As time went on, the group at the edge of the sandpile asked if they could play with the group at the center. The group at the center said yes, but that they would have to leave their toys at home and only play with the big old truck Ñ the one with the bruised paint, the squeak in the bed, and one wheel askew. The group from the edge of the sandpile wondered how their toys could harm the big old truck. Recognizing that the big old truck was ancient and venerable, they asked if it had a name. The group at the center of the sandpile proudly replied, "It's name is Exclusive Jurisdiction." Seeing that the big old truck was about worn out, the group from the edge of the sandpile said little and went back to where it had been playing. But groups from other sandpiles sought out the group on the edge of the sandpile, groups that were not interested in playing with the big old truck, and over time the number of these groups increased. And the group that played in the center of the sandpile found that it was more and more Ñ and more Ñ ALONE. Ñ By Òan Oregon Subscriber,Ó Washington Masonic Tribune, March/April, 1993. DO WE REALLY BELIEVE IN UNIVERSAL BROTHERHOOD? Last fall, I was at home for a family reunion. Word arrived that ErnieÕs mother had died. Ernie and I have known each other as long as weÕve known anyone. I remember us wrestling around in piles of Òpea hayÓ back in the days before peanut dryers killed the stacks in the field. Our families have been friends and neighbors for more than seven generations. I had seen him only occasionally since I went to college and he joined the service. I stayed here in North Carolina. He headed for Germany, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Oklahoma, and points in between. My mother, sister, and I went to his home upon learning his loss. After speaking to several of his family members, I sat down to talk to Ernie. He noticed my Masonic ring. We started to talk Freemasonry. We enjoyed this additional shared experience. We talked about the way the world was and about the way it could be. We talked about the problems Masonry was encountering. They are much the same in different parts of the country. I saw him a couple of days later at his motherÕs funeral. IÕve not talked to him since, but IÕve thought of him often. The more I thought about our years of friendship, the more it nagged at me Ñ not our friendship Ñ but our Masonry. As much as we enjoyed our mutual Fraternity, there was something lacking. While I knew we were free to talk about our relationship, I knew it was not possible for us to sit comfortably together in any lodge I knew in North Carolina. We are members of grand lodges recognizing each other. We have undergone substantially the same rituals to become Master Masons. We have shared the same pledges of friendship and brotherly love. We have both been charged that, ÒThe internal, and not the external qualifications of a man, are what Masonry regards.Ó The thing we donÕt share is skin color. Until, in our hearts, Masons are able to put aside such considerations, the Craft can lay little claim to its attachment to the equality of men before the altar of Freemasonry.