THE electronic NORTH CAROLINA Mason January/February, 1995 vol. 3 #1 The stripped-down, online version of the real thing The North Carolina Mason Volume CXX -- No. 1 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 -- Carroll Simmons, chairman; Michael W. Brantley, B. Wesley Lefler Jr., Dalton W. Mayo, and Bunn T. Phillips. EDITOR -- 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. LATE BREAKING NEWS MASONIC AND EASTERN STAR HOME ADMINISTRATOR HIRED According to Grand Master William B. Brunk, the Masonic and Eastern Star Home will have its new administrator on February 1. That's when John A. Rose begins work. Commenting on the hiring, Brunk said, "This is wonderful. We needed just the right person for this job, and I think we hit a home run." Rose is a past master of Pasadena 272 in California. He will be leaving his current position as administrator of the Masonic Homes for Adults and Children of California in Covina, California. We'll bring you a better introduction in our next issue of The NC Mason. CODE REVISION WORKSHOPS TO BE HELD IN MARCH The schedule for workshops on the proposed revision of The Code was not complete in time to make this issue of The Mason. We are told that you should expect 24 meetings held throughout March at locations around the state. Five will be Saturday meetings. The remaining 19 will be held on week nights. The schedule aims keep night workshops within a 45-minute drive of every Mason in the state. The finished schedule should be on the desk of your lodge's secretary around the first of February. We'll carry a complete schedule in the March/April NC Mason. EIGHTEENTH CENTURY PRINTING PLATE RETURNED TO ST. JOHN'S 3 New Bern, NC/Schenevus, NY -- It was so aged and smeared with printer's ink when they found it in the trunk in upstate New York, that no one was sure what it was. A group from Schenevus Valley 792 decided to find out more. They took the plate to the Farmers Museum for evaluation. It was a printing plate commissioned by St. John's 3 in New Bern North Carolina. It was apparently for making the certificate they presented their newly raised Masons in the late 1700s. Now that Schenevus Valley 792 Master Peter Oberacker and his crew knew what they had, the next order of business was to see if the original owner was still around. They soon found that St. John's 3 was still alive and well. No one in New Bern had heard of the plate, but they were interested in getting it back. New York Mason Bill Frayler mounted the plate and a copy struck from it in a beautiful wood and brass folding case. All that was left then was for Oberacker and his band of detectives to rent a van, head south, and personally deliver the artifact. They made the 12-hour drive and did just that on July 29-30. A group from New Bern has since returned the visit. How did the plate get to New York? No one knows for sure, but speculation leans toward it being taken during the Union occupation of New Bern during the War Between the States. Several such cases have been verified in the state. St. John's 3's own silver officers' jewels and an engraved silver plate placed in the lodge's cornerstone in 1801 were taken when Union troops used the lodge for a barracks during the war. Lt. Col. Andrew Elwell, a Mason, heard that a soldier in his unit had taken the jewels. He ordered a search and confiscated the jewels. He turned them over to the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts which returned them. The plaque from the cornerstone was bought in the streets of Providence, Rhode Island by Thomas A. Doyle, a Mason of that city. In 1876, the plaque and the three 17th century coins encased in it were returned by St. John's 1 of Providence and the mayor of the city. A display case is planned for the plate. For now, it's in the Scottish Rite offices in the same building. Elmer Burroughs hand-crafted a set of Masonic working tools of wood from a tulip poplar. St. John's gave the tools and case to Schenevus Valley 792 in appreciation of their "act of Brotherly love." Let's hope that this is the beginning of a long relationship between the lodges. WORLD TRAVELING GAVEL REACHES NORTH CAROLINA China Grove -- A number of Masonic Districts in the state have traveling gavels. Few have the number of miles on them as the one wielded by Robert Karriker, master of Eureka 283. The gavel began its journey at Rosewood 8793, in Hertfordshire, England in 1981. Robert Monroe Burns, then master of Rosewood Lodge, first presented it to Menzo N. Rohn from a lodge in the Netherlands. It then passed into Germany. A German military lodge transferred it to Hawaiian 21 in Honolulu. Fred Burrell Jr. of Hawaiian 21 sent it to North Carolina, by way of H.B. Burrell of Mooresville 496 who presented the gavel to his lodge. Morrison Blackwelder was master at the time. Blackwelder in turn passed it along to Eureka 283. Each master who comes into possession is asked to contact its originators. The gavel carries with it a message from Rosewood Lodge's members and a roster of the stops along its journey. Here's part of the message: "This traveling gavel comes with fraternal wishes from... Rosewood 8793. It is the intention that the master who receives the gavel will pass it on at the festive board to a visiting master. This in order that the fraternal greetings and good wishes may pass from lodge to lodge through the world." Karriker hasn't given any hints yet on who'll next get the traveling gavel or when it will move on. AN AFFECTION FOR DETAIL MASONIC PROFILE We heard you last ACC football season. It was a big play. Your team's first down was called back because of 12 men on the field. Maybe your team's chief rival made an incredible catch that you'd have sworn was out of bounds. You muttered or screamed terrible things. Watch your step. You may have violated your Masonic obligation. Dan Hogue is senior warden of Andrew Jackson 576 in Salisbury. He is also a side judge, one of three North Carolina Masons who officiate ACC football. Being an ACC official isn't just fun and travel. Making the cut isn't easy. It's hard work. The ACC carries 43 officials, 16 of them in North Carolina. That's from a pool of 4,000 high school football officials. The other two Masons calling games are Bob Lawing and Bill Wampler. Hogue runs two miles and walks six every day in the preseason to get in condition. Every August they attend official school to study for the upcoming season. Written and physical tests must be passed to qualify. On game week, officials are at the game site on Friday night. They spend a couple of hours together watching game tapes that night. Tapes may be supplied by the conference office or, if their last game was broadcast, the referees may watch their own last game to polish their work. They look for mistakes in positioning and ways they might improve their own performance. On game day, they're at the stadium three hours before game time. They go over their game plan -- signals, assignments, things to watch for. They're on the field an hour before kick off. If it's early and they're near home at the end of the game, they may drive home. More likely, it's back to the motel for a rest before catching a Sunday flight home. During the week, Hogue's at school. Dan has been a teacher for 25 years. He teaches marketing and coaches the cheerleaders at North Rowan High School. How did Dan Hogue find his way into Freemasonry? Clint Abernathy and Billy Saunders were Dan's golfing buddies and his best friends. One day on the ninth fairway, the two drifted off to one side to talk. Dan knew it had to be Mason's talk. Dan told them, "I don't know what you guys have got to do to get in the Masons, but I guess I'm not qualified." "Well, why not?" they asked. "I figured if I was qualified, you'd have asked me ten years ago. What have I got to do?" "You just did it," they said. He was initiated in Eureka 283 in China Grove in February 1991. He was raised two months later. Within five months he was a certified lecturer. He is also certified in all three York Rite Bodies. Dan has a love for the rituals of Masonry. A rookie football official once asked Hogue about how to know when there were 12 men on the field. "You count them," was Hogue's rather obvious answer. But how do you know when to count them? "You count them on each and every play," said Dan, "It's the eleventh commandment." It's that attention to detail that's necessary for calling a game. "That's one of the things I like about the ritual. It makes you pay attention to detail. When you're doing the obligation, guys on the sidelines who might not be able to say it will still recognize when it's not right." Does he always do ritual perfectly? Nope. "The guy who does it perfectly better retire," says Dan. He recalls his days as chief of softball umpires in North Carolina. He frequently said in his workshops for softball umpires that he'd retire if he ever called a perfect game. He still laughs when he remembers the day he covered that national softball game. He worked first base. Both teams were packed with sluggers. Every at bat ended with the ball over the fence or caught at the fence. "The only time I called anybody out was when they caught a fly in the outfield." Dan says, "I came off the field and I got to thinking. 'You know what, you just worked a perfect game,' and I retired. I kept my promise." He knows we're bound to make mistakes when we do degree work. But he also thinks we are sometimes too quick to correct or help those on the spot. He recommends having a single person be named to assist when needed. He is fond of reminding those on hand, "If I pause here, I'm doing it for effect, I'm not looking for the words." Don't be too quick to hand the ritualist the next word. Candidates don't recognize imperfection. How the ritual sounds to them is important though. "Let's give these guys coming in a look at a real professional job. If we don't do very well, they know that. If we correct each other, they don't like that. Errors can be corrected during the catechism." Besides their shared attention to detail, Hogue sees officiating and Masonry sharing some other things. "There's an integrity in Masonry that I like very much. There's a lifestyle that teaches you to treat others as your Brothers -- that you should be honest and fair when you deal with that Brother." "When I make a call on Saturday, I make the call because that's the call I'm supposed to make, not because of who's playing." Dan sees that as the same integrity taught in the lodge. Fellowship is another reward the groups share. "I think of all my Brothers in Masonry as family, I think of all my officiating partners as family. I try to teach my cheerleaders the same thing. If something happens to one of them, it happens to all of them." Dan figures to make 150 ACC games called and then retire. He figures to do that in the next four years. What will he do then? He expects to fill that extra time with Masonic business. When you next get ready to shout "Kill the referee," take a squint at the guy in the striped shirt. Look hard to see if he's wearing a ring. And watch what you say, he may be a Brother. MASONIC APPEAL FOR TEXAS FLOOD VICTIMS You remember the flooding that took place in Texas in late October. The Masonic Service Association has issued an appeal for financial assistance on behalf of the Grand Lodge of Texas. As usual, there is no administrative cost deducted from donations. All funds go directly to the Grand Lodge of Texas for distribution. Send your check to MSA Disaster Relief Fund, 8120 Fenton Street, Silver Spring, MD 20910-4785. BILL MASON -- 70-YEAR MASON Oriental -- Bill Mason was seven or eight when George Washington Gaskill's ring caught his eye. Gaskill was a large, weathered man -- an oyster fisherman with a gold tooth. His ring bore the square and compasses. "Where do you get one of those?" Bill asked. "You've got to be a Mason," George said. "I am a Mason," the boy answered, reminding Gaskill of his last name. Gaskill explained the difference. Bill Mason was 18 before he tried to get one of those rings again. They told him he still had three more years to wait. Bill was quartermaster on a dredge out of Norfolk, Virginia when he turned 21. Alfred P. Linnell, the dredge captain, signed his petition and forwarded it through Brambleton Lodge in Norfolk back to Mount Vernon 359, then in Stonewall. He was elected and initiated when he returned to Pamlico County in May 1924. He was raised that June. His 70 years of membership there was recognized at a dinner earlier this year. Bill trucked seafood to the Piedmont for years. Early in his career he'd bring a load of stone back for every load of fish carried up. With that rock, in 1932, he built the first stone home in Oriental. He still lives there. He was building that house, nailing at the peak of the rafters, when Shrine Recorder Charlie Seifert drove up. He was recruiting for the next class at Sudan. Bill hollered down that he had no money and turned back to nailing. He was surprised when he looked back and found that Charlie had climbed the ladder to continue the discussion. Mason, opening his wallet to show it empty, found an unexpected ten dollar bill. Siefert grabbed the ten and told Bill he'd sign a bank note and let him pay the rest at ten dollars a month. Bill Mason is thought to be the senior member of Sudan Temple in both age and years of membership. He's got almost 64 years in Scottish Rite and 63 in Shrine. Bill celebrated his 92nd birthday with a promise to plant 92 plants in his yard during the year. He's almost finished. "I make everything an adventure. Like setting out the trees in my yard -- I had a goal to work to," says Bill. FERRELL FAMILY FILLS OUT FIFTIES Green Level -- Carl Ferrell can finally hold his head high at family reunions. He's the last of the Ferrell Brothers to get his Veteran's Emblem for 50 years Masonic membership. District Deputy Grand Master Benton Oakes made the presentation November 1. Carl Ferrell, Bruce Ferrell, Raymond Ferrell, and Clem Ferrell have each has served as master. They collectively now hold over 217 years of Masonic experience. AARON HEDDEN RAISES A MASONIC FAMILY Franklin -- When you mention the Masonic family around Aaron Hedden, it takes on extra meaning. Aaron is a past master of Junaluskee 145 and has carefully set footsteps for his descendants to follow. He has coached and raised two sons and three grandsons. Aaron's Masonic family tree is Phillip, Barry, Gary, Bruce, and Robin. Aaron is one guy who's doing more than his part to promote growth in the Fraternity. Hang in there for another generation, Aaron. -- Brad Bishop. MASONIC SCAM STILL ALIVE If you haven't heard of or from Leroy Wilkinson, count your blessings. He'll tell you he's a Mason. Don't believe it. The name's been known to unlucky Mason's for years. Most con games take advantage of greed. Wilkinson's rip-off preys on the brotherly love and charity of Masons. It's been a couple of year's since we've had a Leroy report in the state. The scam still lives all over the country. Other grand lodges frequently mention his trail of embarrassment. Be prepared. He will be back. Here's how it works and some suggestions about protecting yourself. A Mason receives a phone call from a person identifying himself as the secretary of an out-of-state lodge. The name and number of an actual lodge are usually given. His story is that a young man and his family (a wife and up to three kids) are in the area and have a problem. Usually a car problem, or family emergency, or both are cited. They are waiting at a local business or pay phone. The "mark" is asked to assist in getting them back on their way by delivering some cash, usually less than $100. The "secretary" claims to be writing a check right then for the requested amount and urges that the Mason get a receipt from the "stranded" person. The name of the person is often the same: Leroy or Larry Wilkenson, Wilkerson, or Wilkinson. George or John Manning is also used on occasion. The victim may even meet the family when delivering the money. He will be offered a written receipt for the money. They sometimes get the names of local Masons from funeral homes. They seem to strike most often near Interstate Highways. They are knowledgeable of Masonry. Upon returning a call to the named lodge, it is discovered that there is no knowledge of the person stranded or the story given. That's why the requests are usually made at a time that is not convenient for checking on membership or validity. How can you defend yourself? DON'T provide cash to anyone without inquiry through the Grand Lodge. The staff at the Grand Lodge is happy to check on any such requests. At times when there is no opportunity to check with the office (after hours or weekends), demand a dues card as proof of membership. You might also suggest that referral in conjunction with the local police department would be a good idea in light of recent scams. You'll likely find a Brother Mason or two at your local police department. Anyone in real need will likely not object to such scrutiny, but appreciate your care. DO offer goods or services rather than cash. These will be appreciated by those in actual distress and avoided by those trying to steal from you. DO get details if you are approached. Car descriptions and license numbers might be just the thing to get these guys stopped for a while. Call local law enforcement people immediately. DON'T be embarrassed into silence if you are victimized. Let others know what happened. The criminals have already cheated smarter, more careful folk than you. The same game has been reported from coast to coast. The scam has been run in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, South Dakota, Texas, Louisiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and other states. MORE MASONIC TIES TO UNC BICENTENNIAL After our coverage of last year's University of North Carolina Bicentennial, we got letters from a couple of Brothers with family connections to the celebration. Thomas Michael Holt, a Tar Heel Mason who has lived in Mississippi for years, wrote about the Old Well. The current "altar" of the University was designed by his maternal grandfather, Eugene Lewis Harris. In 1897 University President Edwin A. Alderman ordered the Old Well rebuilt. Harris was the man he called on. Harris was UNC's first registrar and established the first YMCA on campus. Holt doesn't think that Harris was a Mason. Holt's father, Earle P. Holt, was a Mason and served for years as president of Oak Ridge Military Institute. John O. Lutz is a member of St. John's 1 living in Michigan. He recognized a distant relative's name as being connected with the return of the Old East cornerstone plaque. He sent the article to Charles Foust. Foust still operates the family foundry in Clarksville, Tennessee that found and returned the brass plate to the University. It was in 1916 that Foust's grandfather rescued the plate from melting. Foust says, in a letter to Lutz, "That was indeed my grandfather. I've heard my Dad tell the story. His name was not William Foust but Thomas B. Foust. Otherwise, it seems correct." TRAVELERS OF THE TAR HEEL STATE NEWS FORM NORTH CAROLNA LODGES HAYESVILLE -- The Masonic Homes are $1,400 richer thanks to Clay 301's recent fundraiser. At their October meeting Joe Wright gave a talk on Masonry during the War Between the States. -- Trestle Board. * * * * BLACK MOUNTAIN -- They'll continue to have only one stated communication a month at Black Mountain 663. A proposal to add second Mondays as a regular meeting night was recently defeated. -- Black Mountain Lodge. * * * * OLD FORT -- They were handing out service awards at Joppa 401 in October. Paul M. Allison and Ernest Young Walker got their Veteran's Awards. George E. Biddix, of Rutherfordton, got his 60-year award. Joppa is sponsoring a blood drive January 14 from 10:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Old Fort. They're there to use the first floor facilities preferred by the Red Cross. They're aiming for 70 units. Help them out if you can. -- Joppa Lodge. * * * * KENANSVILLE -- Chicken and pastry was on the table at Maxwell's Mill when St. John's 13 held their annual family picnic. -- Bulletin of St. John's Lodge. * * * * CONOVER -- Wayne Whitson, of Conover 709, is on the Masonic fast track. He became a Class A Certified Lecturer in September. The only Third Degree he's ever seen was just five months ago -- the one in which he was the candidate. Cecil Darden recently got his Veteran's Emblem. -- Conover Lodge. * * * * WINSTON-SALEM -- Old Town 751 presented Jim Chambers his 50-Year Award. Frank Rhodes also was recognized for his 50+ years in Masonry. Footing should be a little surer in their parking lot now that it's paved. -- On the Level at Old Town Lodge. * * * * SPRUCE PINE -- The newsletter at Vesper 554 finally has a name. The Beacon denotes "a source of light to guide one's journey." Burn long and phosphor. Freemasonry has suffered attacks through the years, but few like the one at Vesper. In October, motorist in Spruce Pine lost control of his car and accidentally crashed into the carpet shop housed downstairs from the lodge. Their building suffered a little lost stucco and a red smear that matched the culprit's auto. According to The Beacon, "The car looks a lot worse than the wall does." Vesper has picked a couple of nice gifts recently. David Williams has given them an answering machine. Members and visitors can now find out about lodge activities by calling 765-1017. They've been loaned a display case. Now they're looking for more things to put in it. If you've got something of importance to the Craft in Spruce Pine, they'd love to borrow or accept it as a gift. Johnny Riddle, Fred Janeiro, and Frank Ellis recently got their Veteran's Awards. -- The Beacon. * * * * WILMINGTON -- All four New Hanover County lodges cooperated in hosting an open house program in October. They held it at the Scottish Rite Temple in Wilmington. -- The Trestle Board. Low twelve at St. John's 1 will have a new ring to it thanks to the new bell donated by George Jones. -- The Trestle Board. * * * * FAYETTEVILLE -- Phoenix 8 recently lost a lodge fixture. Johnnie Bryant Jones passed away in September after 50 years in the lodge, 47 as their secretary. In November, Phoenix and Lebanon 391 sponsored a flu shot clinic for older citizens. They plan a Shots for Tots program in early 1995. They've still got lots of lodge caps left for $5 each. They're blue and white with a picture of the lodge. -- Phoenix Lodge. * * * * MONROE -- Donald Helton, district deputy grand lecturer, is trying to develop a call list for Masonic funerals in the 39th District. They're focusing on retired men and those who can leave work during the day. -- Trestleboard. * * * * GREENSBORO -- Deputy Grand Master Cliff Everett is getting warmed up for next year's traveling. He was on the road to Greensboro in November for the annual fellowship dinner at Revolution 552. Revolution made their annual Christmas visit to the Masonic Home for Children in December. They visited worship services at the chapel and had lunch at the cafeteria before distributing gifts to the kids. -- The Bi-Monthly Newsletter. Some months back, lodges in Greensboro began efforts to raise their initiation fee from $75 to $100. Because of shared jurisdiction, all the lodges in Greensboro had to pass the same amendment to their by-laws. That has now been accomplished. The new fees went into effect January 1, 1995. If you wanted your Brunswick stewed, Gate City 694 was the place to be last fall. They sold over 800 quarts of stew for the benefit of the new Care Center. Gate City hosted 40 residents of the Masonic Home for Children for a Christmas party in early December. They brought them to Greensboro for a meal and presents. -- The Trestle Board. * * * * RALEIGH -- December is the month that Masters 754 celebrates Founders' Night. That's when they salute the "stalwart pioneers" who formed their lodge back in '77 -- 1977 that is. -- The Trowel. William T. Bain 231 held a barbecue for the charities in November. -- Masonic Newsletter. Raleigh 500 must have been expecting Paul Bunyan or Pecos Bill for Past Masters' Night. Hiram Casebolt's famous steak dinner promised "steaks the size of small cows and potatoes that look like small watermelons painted brown." All the chairs were to be filled by regular size past masters. -- Raleigh Lodge. * * * * GASTONIA -- They're working hard for Masonic charities at Gastonia 369. They held a yard sale and their Second Annual Pancake Breakfast for benefit of our Homes. -- The Trestle Board. King Solomon 704 named Junior Warden Robert Grant their Mason of the Year. He's described as "one who asks what he can do to help rather than waiting to be called." -- The Plumb Line. * * * * MANTEO -- Bonner Mayo Smith was recently honored by Manteo 521 for his more than 50 years of Masonic membership. -- More Light. * * * * LAURINBURG -- The 30th Masonic District's banner went to Laurinburg 305 for their performance at the district's September school of instruction. They did the second section of the Third Degree. -- The Masonic Messenger. * * * * WILKESBORO -- Liberty 45 helped put up the kids from the Oxford Children's Choir during their December visit to the area. At Family Night, the lodge's widows were each given a basket filled with cookies, honey, and other treats. -- Liberty at Large. * * * * WILSON -- District-wide events have been popular lately in the 17th Masonic District. The District Picnic at Toisnot Park had 65 folks attend. The past masters of the district and Paul Berry Chevrolet/Capital Toyota gave a World Book Encyclopedia to the children at the Home in Oxford. Wilson 712 played to the Saturday morning early risers when they hosted an Invite a Friend Breakfast in October. -- The Masonic Journal. * * * * ALBEMARLE -- A recent pancake dinner at Stanly 348 brought in over $400 for Masonic charities. -- The Trestle Board. * * * * EDENTON -- More than 80 showed up for supper when Lake Drummond Lodge of Virginia made their annual visit to Unanimity 7. They got to see the first section of Virginia's Master Mason Degree. Unanimity's usual return visit will be moved from April to May because of conflict with Grand Lodge's Annual Communication. -- The Trestle Board. * * * * CHARLOTTE -- Charles M. Setzer 693 got support from Queen City Eastern Star when they sponsored an immunization clinic in September. They held their lodge barbecue for Masonic charities in October. To switch up the menu, they planned catfish filets for the between sections break for a Third Degree two days later. -- Charles M. Setzer Lodge. Over at Steele Creek 737 in December, William F. Haake celebrated 50 years in Freemasonry. -- Steele Creek Lodge. * * * * WALLACE -- Henry Ford Rivenbark got his Veteran's Emblem from Wallace 595 in November. -- Bulletin of Wallace Lodge. * * * * BRYSON CITY -- There were plenty of dignitaries on hand when Grand Master Bill Brunk dedicated Oconee 427's new building November 19. -- Grand Lodge Office. * * * * MARION -- Mystic Tie 237 was providing transportation for a Saturday immunization clinic in McDowell County. Mystic Tie presented 50-Year Awards to Red Jolley and John Sullivan in November. -- Mystic Tie Lodge. * * * * SPENCER -- All the widow's of Spencer 543 were to get fruit baskets a week before Christmas. -- On The Square. * * * * PRINCETON -- The unfinished storage room at St. Patrick's 617 is destined for more noble and glorious purposes. It is to become the lodge library. Bookshelves will still leave room for a study area. -- The Shamrock. * * * * SALISBURY -- Fulton 99 is buying a piece property that divides the property they already share with Andrew Jackson 576. -- Jerry Bame, secretary. * * * * ARCADIA -- Enterprise 752 made Bill Teague an honorary member in October. Bill is a member of Winston 167. -- Henry Kirkman, secretary. * * * * HICKORY -- Hamburgers and hot dogs were on the menu even if it was a fishing trip. Hickory 343 and Hickory Bassmasters took 30 kids from the Masonic Home for Children fishing in October. They put 11 boats, one a pontoon boat, on W. Kerr Scott Lake. We don't know what the fish count was, but we're sure everybody caught a good time. -- Hickory Lodge. * * * * DENVER -- Bud Lytle is in search of egg cartons again. He uses them to package used golf balls he and friends pick up. Everything he gets for them goes to Masonic charities, over $900 last year. -- The Trestleboard. * * * * GRANITE QUARRY -- Granite Quarry was the site of the 44th Masonic District's Annual -- you guessed it -- Quarry Degree. -- The Master's Journal. * * * * STEDMAN -- November was hyped on hypodermics at Stedman 730. They helped the county health department run a clinic for kids on a Saturday and took flu shots themselves two weeks later. -- James Hay, secretary. * * * * BAKERSVILLE -- Bakersville 357 held its annual Apple Butter Cooking this fall. Money raised went to the Masonic Homes. -- The Beacon. * * * * DENTON -- They're spiffing up the looks of the lodge building at Denton 404. Bob McKinney donated slate to put under the columns out front. We hear it's quite handsome. Vinyl siding is next on the menu. -- Denton Lodge. GRAND MASTERS'S MESSAGE WILLIAM B. BRUNK, GRAND MASTER OF NC The new year has given me occasion to speak with numerous newly elected masters of our lodges. The discussion usually revolves around installing the officers of that master's lodge for the coming year. Several of these brethren have also discussed some of their plans for their year as master of their lodge. The most common desire that I have heard is to instill some life into his lodge, to re-activate the existing membership, to generate enthusiasm among the members, and to increase activity and attendance at lodge meetings. One newly elected master indicated that he intended to have programs at which knowledgeable Masons would come to the lodge and answer questions about Masonry in general as well as about current Masonic events. Re-activation of the existing membership is probably the best way I know of to bring a renewed sense of vitality to a lodge. I believe however that this must begin with an understanding of the reason we exist. From our beginnings, obscure as they may be, Freemasonry has existed as a way for men who hold some common beliefs to gather together. The founding fathers of our great country held a firm belief in the right of men to govern themselves, and to worship their God in whatever manner seemed to them right and true. Freemasonry has the same purpose today. Ours is also an organization that desires, "through improvement and strengthening of the character of the individual man... to improve the community." In order to have the desired result, it is necessary that we make contact with our members. Active, well-organized telephone committees, periodic lodge newsletters, and personal visitation are all good methods for improving communication between our lodges and our members. Once good communication is established, we must have something to offer our members. We suggest that all members be offered something to do -- a committee to serve on or some function to perform. The Masonic Service Association is an excellent source for ideas that can be used to put our members to work, as well as for educational programs. The purpose of Freemasonry really hasn't changed over these many years. If we remember our purpose, and implement plans to see to it that those purposes are carried out, then we will be successful. Our fraternity will continue to have the beneficial influence on our society that we all desire. I would like to extend to the new officers of each North Carolina lodge my best wishes for an extremely successful and fruitful year. FOUNDATION DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE BY JIM MEDLIN A NEW YEAR--A NEW TIME FOR OUR CHARITIES January 1 of any year is a day when, traditionally, our good resolutions are put to the test. Historically, it is a day full of good intentions, and hopefully, the beginning of the triumph of good. On New Year's Day, no matter what the past, we look forward with hope. No matter what the problems of the past, we renew our dedication. President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 made that New Year's Day -- and every New Year's Day since then -- particularly meaningful. That proclamation was issued exactly 128 years after one of the most famous Freemasons and messengers of freedom, Paul Revere, was born. The New Year in America, and more especially here in North Carolina, begins with many reminders of a Masonic heritage dedicated to friendship, morality, and brotherly love. As we move into the New Year you might have thoughts of making a personal charitable contribution. How can you best do that? There are many ways one might consider making a special gift to our charities. There are cash gifts, personal property or real estate is welcomed, including a charity or charities in a will, and the list goes on. One of the greatest resources of charitable relief is giving through wills and bequests. We seldom realize the power such gifts can have. Let me give you an example. I recently received a copy of a letter from the superintendent of Oxford Orphanage dated January 1, 1943. It was sent to the trustee of the Joseph F. Cannon Christmas Fund. It was an accounting of the fund's 1942 donation to the Home for Children. The gift of just over $200 had been spent on fruit, nuts, and candy for the children's Christmas. The superintendent said, "We are deeply appreciative of this for it means that as long as this fund is available we are sure that our family of three hundred children will receive these nice things at Christmas time." On November 18, 1994, the Masonic Home for Children at Oxford received a letter from the First Charter National Bank, Trustee for the Joseph F. Cannon Christmas Trust. Enclosed was a check the Masonic Home for Children's share of the fifty-fifth annual distribution of the trust. It totalled $17,946.16! This wonderful gift from Joseph Franklin Cannon, who died in 1939, has perpetuated and maintained a legacy that has withstood over 55 years of Masonic charitable giving to children. It is truly a wonderful way to carry on the North Carolina Masonic Traditions. If you would like more information about wills and bequest, please contact me at the Grand Lodge, (919) 787-2021 or drop me a note, P.O. Box 6506, Raleigh, NC 27628-6506. TALTON ENDOWMENT BEGUN Oxford -- Garland Talton isn't satisfied with 28 years of service to the kids of the Masonic Home for Children. That's how long he taught math and coached there before retiring. He spent 25 years as Sunday school superintendent at the York Rite Temple Chapel. Talton presented a check for $10,000 to Grand Master Bill Brunk. The gift establishes the M. Garland and Francis H. Talton Endowment Fund. Interest on the fund will be used for general operating expenses of the Home. UNDER THE OAKS DAVID GRISSOM, ADINISTRATOR MASONIC HOME FOR CHILDREN LOOKING AHEAD WITH A POSITIVE VISION As we prepare to meet the challenges of the New Year, it is the wish of our children and staff at The Masonic Home For Children, that all of our Masons, Alumni, and Friends will have a wonderful 1995. As you are aware, our Home for Children made several major changes in 1994. Fortunately, a number of positive results have been experienced. First, many people around the State have complimented the Masons on their desire to help children of various nationalities. They have also praised our Fraternity for the efforts they are making to extend their hands in their local communities. On December 6, for example, The Winn-Dixie Corporation recognized our Masonic Home For Children with a Good Citizenship Award. This is given each year by Winn-Dixie to recognize organizations or groups dedicated to their mission and who seek to provide quality care for their charges. Jim Medlin, development director for the Grand Lodge, accepted this award along with a monetary gift of $2,500.00 on behalf of The Masonic Home For Children. We are grateful to Winn-Dixie for their support. Secondly, it has been encouraging to see more positive publicity in some of our state's newspapers. As you know, our Masonic Home, and Masonry in general, has been viewed on occasion from a negative perspective by some. It is wonderful to see our rich history and principles of friendship, morality, and brotherly love more recognized among the general public. Our Masonic Home For Children has been one of Masonry's best kept secrets for too long. Many people have said, "I did not know the Masons had such a beautiful home to support children at this high level of care." As Masons, we have a home for children that continues to be our pride and joy. The more we promote the purposes and deeds of this wonderful home, the more we will see positive information in our local newspapers. Finally, and most important, all of the 155 children who are presently living on our campus are doing fine. The backgrounds of some of these children make it a miracle they are with us today. You should hear some of the children telling other children, "You better be glad you are here at this home, because while you are here, you have a chance to make something of your life." When we break down the barriers, push aside the criticism, avoid the gossip, and listen to the child, then we know that we must be doing something right for the children. In 1995, let us pull together, more than ever, and do what God would want us to do. God has blessed us in many ways over the years. We have many new opportunities to prove to our Great Architect that we are dedicated to doing His will now and in the future. Many thanks Brethren for your continued love, support, and prayers. May God surround you with His many blessings as you have been a blessing to our large family at The Masonic Home For Children. SOME BIRTHDAYS OF KIDS AT THE HOME February 1, 1980 Devonna Swann February 2, 1980 John Thomas Banks February 6, 1977 Christy Ann Harris February 12, 1990 Ariel Berthine Kubinski February 12, 1988 Jessica Marca Quick February 14, 1987 Anna Marie Barraza February 19, 1981 Miadia Ayanna McMillan February 23, 1980 Emily Jo Yow February 24, 1983 James Winford Adkins III February 27, 1980 Miles Andrew Bartield February 28, 1983 Luther Craig Dunn February 28, 1978 Kevin Roy Calcutt February 28, 1980 Marshall Edward Burgess March 3, 1982 Earl Ross Wilson March 3, 1977 Heather Michelle Williams March 8, 1979 Barney Daniel Davis March 11, 1980 Christopher Lee Baskerville March 12, 1979 Joanie Gilchrist Romm March 13, 1979 Kurtis Michael Degner March 13, 1981 Mark Anthony Evangelist March 17, 1977 Paul Mark Ireland Jr. March 18, 1977 Shaun Michael Galvin March 21, 1979 Brandi Nicole Smith March 27, 1980 Shaunna Rae Holt March 27, 1987 Linda Mane Dooley A THANK YOU TO NC MASONS George B. Umstead, of Knap of Reeds 158, Bahama, NC, recently sent North Carolina's Masons a note of thanks on behalf of Debra Hughes. Back in 1991, Debra's son Ian was burned over 40% of his body by a gas can explosion. They lived in Shelby at the time. When Ian got to Winston-Salem for treatment, they were introduced to Masons. The Masons arranged for Ian to be flown to the Shrine Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio. He stayed there for more than six weeks. During his stay, Ian got cards, gifts, and letters from people all over. Debra says, "I never knew that so many people cared so much for total strangers." She extended special thanks to Knap of Reeds 158 and the Durham Bulls. Ms. Hughes is currently working on her degree in physical therapy and hopes to work at the burn center in Greenville, South Carolina after she graduates. VIRGINIA'S MASONIC UNDERGROUND Luray, Virginia -- Being raised to Master Mason is an experience that every Mason remembers all his life. Four men from New Jersey will think back on theirs as truly rare. In March of last year, they were the first men to get Masonic degrees in the Luray Caverns. The wondrous underground rock formations of the caverns there are famous the world over. Thomas Fayer, Jack Henson, Patrick Montgomery, and Donald Moser, the lucky honorees, are members of Florence 87 in Woodbury, New Jersey. Lafayette 137, Luray, VA hosted the -- affair. Would you call it an outdoor degree? Music from the unique Cavern Organ and the dripping of stalactites filled the dark corners around the multicolored stone formations for the three hours the work took. Twenty-six lodges in three states sent 105 Masons to the cavern. -- William H. Reppert, The New Jersey Freemason. A BUCKSKIN DEGREE IN WISCONSIN Shining Times Valley, Wisconsin -- When Oregon 151 holds an outdoor degree, they pull out all the stops. Back in September, they performed a Master Mason degree in costumes from the Wisconsin's fur trading period of the early 1800s. They wore buckskins or dressed as woodland hunters or voyageurs. Early arrivals could visit an authentic Cheyenne teepee and watch demonstrations of muzzle-loading rifle firing and tomahawk throwing. After the degree, they dedicated a cornerstone for the recently restored log trading post there. The dedication was followed by a buffalo stew and biscuit supper. -- Wisconsin Masonic Journal. NEW HAMPSHIRE'S SENIOR MASON Milford, New Hampshire -- Guy Cleveland Blodgett, a member and Honorary Past Master of Benevolent 7, Milford, New Hampshire, celebrated his 109th birthday last January. He was born on January 17, 1885. He is the oldest living graduate of Dartmouth College in Hanover, NH, class of 1908. He has been a Master Mason for 87 years having been raised April 6, 1907. Although he appears to be in reasonably good health considering his age, Blodgett recently moved voluntarily from his daughter's home and admitted himself to a nursing home nearby so as "not to hinder his daughter and her husband from having their own life." When asked what he had to say about reaching such a remarkable age he replied, "I'm looking forward to 110!" By George D. Van Dyke, past grand master of New Hampshire, Emassay Notes. A STRONG DESIRE FOR MASONRY In October 1992, William H. Upton Naval and Military Lodge 206 in the state of Washington initiated a young sailor, Danilo Garcia Barcelon, from the USS Vincent. So far, nothing unusual in conferral of a degree. However, in talking to the young sailor after the degree, they found that he had been transferred to Vallejo, California, on a temporary duty assignment. He had rented a car and driven the 800 miles, without rest, to receive his degree. We asked where he was going to spend the night and he replied that he would have to leave for Vallejo right away because he had to be back as soon as possible. Danilo did not think it unusual to take such measures to become a Mason. Danilo said that he wanted to receive his degrees in our lodge and would drive back whenever the degree was scheduled. We think that our new Brother set some kind of a record in his desire for Masonry. -- Washington Masonic Tribune, November/December, 1992. ENCOMPASSING THE WORLD MASONIC NEWS FROM AROUND THE WORLD NEW YORK -- An anonymous donor in New York seems to think more preachers should experience Freemasonry first hand. He's offered to pay initiation fees for clergymen of any faith who join any New York Masonic Lodge. He'll also contribute $25 to the Masonic Brotherhood Fund in the name of the candidate's sponsor. District deputies were encouraged to contact local clergy and tell them about the offer. Asking qualified men to consider becoming a Mason is acceptable in New York. -- Niagara-Orleans District Masonic News. * * * * TEXAS -- Duncan Howard has retired as editor of The Texas Mason after eight years on the job. Hugh Smith is taking over as editor as Howard heads for bypass surgery and a career of fishing with grandchildren. -- The Texas Mason. * * * * MINNESOTA -- Minnehaha 165 has launched a new, no dues group. The TMRM, or Thursday Morning Retired Masons, get together at the lodge for a couple of hours every Thursday morning. They enjoy special programs and good fellowship. -- The Minnesota Mason. * * * * MICHIGAN -- At its 1993 annual communication, the Grand Lodge of Michigan authorized putting the degree lectures on tape. They've finished the audio recording. They're now copying antique, hand-painted, glass slides onto 35mm slides. The complete sets will be sold to their lodges at cost. -- From Point to Pointe. * * * * WASHINGTON -- Several changes were adopted at the last annual communication of the Grand Lodge of Washington. They now allow a reduced proficiency examination. The shortened version will require the candidate to memorize the signs, grips, words, and obligation. They will then take an open book, written exam on other aspects of Masonry and its history. Lodges may choose to use either the old or new requirements. Eighteen-year-olds may now become Masons in the state, and they needn't wait until they become Master Masons to attend regular lodge meetings. Another adopted amendment to their by-laws allows lodges to conduct business meetings in any degree they choose. An increase of $2 in per capita to continue publishing The Washington Masonic Tribune was rejected. Publication will now be reduced from 12 to three or four issues per year. -- The Washington Masonic Tribune * * * * VIRGINIA -- Two petitions have been furnished to each Mason in Virginia along with the introductory pamphlet "For Your Information." Grand Master Thomas F. May asked them to give the information to two of their friends who meet "our standards." The program was ruled not to be solicitation by the grand lodge in 1990. They're also reminding members that DeMolays and the sons or grandsons of Masons may petition at age 18. Their annual communication was scheduled for mid-November. Two proposed resolutions would lower the minimum age for petitioning for the degrees -- one to 18, the other to 19. Another they'll consider, one that we hear of frequently from around the country, is to introduce a statement into the degrees that the penalties of the obligations are symbolic only. Two black cubes would be necessary to reject an applicant if another resolution passes. Yet another would raise the minimum dues a lodge may charge to $15. -- The Virginia Masonic Herald. * * * * WISCONSIN -- The first Wisconsin State Championship Traveling Plaque goes to Crandon 287 to begin its journey. Crandon, a small lodge, won the state's first ritual contest over larger urban groups. They scored 1237 points out of a possible 1300 possible points. Deductions were made for errors, omissions, mispronounced words, and floor work mistakes. An extra 20 rooms have been added to Three Pillars Wisconsin Retirement Communities. The Community Based Residential Facility will cater to patients who are still somewhat independent but require 24-hour medical care. -- The Wisconsin Masonic Journal. * * * * NEW ZEALAND -- The Grand Lodge of New Zealand has appointed a communications manager as part of the marketing initiative in their Strategic Plan. -- Freemason. * * * * AUSTRALIA -- It is sometimes said that Masonry is too cheap. Cornucopia 362 in Perth, Australia is trying to place quality before quantity. Their fees are over $300 a year and they only meet four or five times a year. Festive boards following meetings are said to be lavish. Do high costs scare members off? As of the report in Freemason, they had six petitions and four men taking the degrees. -- Freemason. * * * * NEW JERSEY -- The Grand Lodge of New Jersey is supporting three programs to be offered by blue lodges to improve their communities and their relationships with them. One is a Masonic Child ID Day. Second is to publicize the Masonic HELPLINE, a state-wide 800 number to help citizens. Third is Dialog Night in which parents, children, and a few Masons discuss a series of ideas. The discussions are aimed at establishing and strengthening trust and understanding in relationships. A new and ambitious educational program is being instituted by the grand lodge here. Six sessions, spread through the year, are aimed at preparing lodge officers for the next chair they will fill. Subjects include lodge management, grand lodge structure and operation, budget preparation, managing social events, and accommodating visitors. Attendance so far stands at about 25% of the state's officers. -- The New Jersey Freemason. * * * * KENTUCKY -- At their next annual communication, Kentucky Masons will consider doing away with the grand lodge setting specific minimum dues for the lodges. Current grand lodge by-laws set $12.50 as the lowest annual dues. A lodge would still be required to collect as much as necessary to "maintain itself and discharge its duties and responsibilities." -- Masonic Home Journal. * * * * ALBERTA -- Len Hall, last summer, served as installing officer for a third generation master of Excelsior Lodge in Sedgewick, Alberta. He installed Colin Cramton in June, his father Harry Cramton in 1971, and his grandfather George Cramton in 1954. Colin's brother Adrian Cramton is currently senior warden in the lodge. Britannia Lodge in Ponoka is issuing visitation "passports" to its members. The tyler of lodge's visited is requested to sign the passport. There's a place for the Mason's picture and pages to record ten visits. The back cover carries an outline of Masonic etiquette. Patients of the Cancer Centre in Calgary have been getting rides from local Masons since 1992. Twenty-five to 30 Masons volunteer to drive and help schedule transportation for patients. -- Grand Lodge Bulletin. * * * * OREGON -- The Information and Education Committee of the Grand Lodge of Oregon has reinstituted the Torchlight Program. They have reduced the number of courses from three to two, but have made them more challenging. The program gives Masons a better command of the by-laws, procedures, and etiquette of their grand lodge. -- Oregon Masonic News. * * * * NEW MEXICO -- Clayton 23 hosted their annual Five State Masonic Fellowship meeting last summer. Thirty-five lodges from California, New Mexico, Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma, the Philippines, Mexico, and Colorado were there. Lodge was opened at Clayton 23 on Saturday morning and closed before a barbecue lunch. They then reconvened at Texline 1135 in Texas, where a degree team from Las Animas 28 and Trinidad 89 in Colorado conferred the third degree on a new member of the host lodge. Kansas Masons closed the lodge. The Pueblo Colorado Lodges presented The Rose Upon the Altar, a Masonic play, before the banquet. -- The New Mexico Freemason. * * * * NEBRASKA -- Members of the Grand Lodge of Nebraska and the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Nebraska participated in the "Prostate Cancer Screening Awareness Project" at the request of the state's department of health. The study aimed at testing the knowledge of men over 40 about the disease and its early diagnosis. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men. -- The Nebraska Mason. * * * * SOUTH DAKOTA -- South Dakota has hired an executive director to take care of the business aspects of the grand lodge. Grand Master Glen Peterson's theme for the year is "Masonry is the family with values." He's offering Special Grand Lodge Awards to qualifying lodges next year. The lodges must attend the grand master's area meeting and be represented at the official visits of grand lodge officers. The lodge must make four visits to youth group meetings. The master of the lodge must reaffirm his obligation at least once during the year. All lodge reports to the grand lodge must be on time. They must do something for the community in the name of Masonry and hold a widows or citizens recognition meeting for non-Masons. They must meet all these requirements to get the award. -- The South Dakota Masonic Messenger. * * * * INDIANA -- Five hundred forty-one college-bound students are collecting $516,000 from the Masons of Indiana this year. The scholarships are for children and grandchildren of Indiana Masons. Indiana has opened a new special purpose lodge. Transylvania Lodge is to serve as a resource center and clearing house for lodges holding blood drives. Robert C. Hilgediek, master, plans "active promotional and recognition programs such as blood draws at state-wide functions." Membership in a special purpose lodge does not affect membership restrictions of the grand lodge. Their first annual meeting was scheduled for Halloween. -- The Indiana Freemason. NATIONAL CAMPING TRAVELERS CORRECTION Due to incorrect information supplied to The North Carolina Mason, we carried the wrong phone number for the National Camping Travelers in our last issue. The NCT's correct number is (804) 420-6829. We're sorry for the inconvenience. WHAT IS THE EASTERN STAR? Those of us who are not members of Eastern Star may not be aware of its proud history. The predecessor of the Order was named "Masonry of Adoption" and was composed of wives, daughters, sisters, or mothers of Masons and was in existence as far back as 1765 in Europe. It was under the patronage of the Masonic bodies of the areas. Empress Josephine of France was at the head of the order in the French Empire during this period. Many women of the highest standards in Europe were active members. Brother Rob Morris is generally credited with introducing what we now call Eastern Star, when in 1850 he began to refine and rewrite the rituals of the "Masonry of Adoption." He is credited with giving it the name it now bears. The first initiates were a Mississippi neighbor and his wife, and Mrs. Morris, wife of the founder. Morris spent the next eighteen years refining his work and spreading the word along the eastern United States. In 1868 he journeyed to Palestine to do Masonic exploration and handed his Eastern Star powers to Brother Robert Macoy of New York, who proposed the plan of Eastern Star Chapters now in use. The order has grown to all fifty states. North Carolina's was organized on May 20, 1905. -- From Fellowship Lodge No. 84, September 1993. A BYRD FOR COLD SEASONS The life of Richard E. Byrd, who was raised in Federal 1 in the District of Columbia on March 19, 1921, should be an inspiration to all Masons. He had a single purpose in growing up. He was to see the world, to go where no one else had ever been. Several times he had to adjust his direction in order to reach this goal, but that was the tint that gave his life such a beautiful hue. After graduating from college, Byrd applied for and was given a Naval Commission. What better way to see the world? But at the age of 28 he was discharged as being physically unfit for service. He had injured his foot in an accident and the old injury was enough for the Navy to separate him. He still pursued his goal, only now he used a different stratagem. He sneaked back into the Navy; this time as an aviator. Although Byrd flew both types of aircraft, he became a specialist in lighter-than-air craft. Bad luck was destined to follow. The Shenandoah, on which he was to fly northward, crashed. He was then refused permission to pilot one of the planes in Amundsen's expedition to the pole. The crowning blow was dealt when he was again discharged from the Navy because of his old foot injury. Byrd would not bend his ambition under the adversity. Instead, he changed his direction again. Raising the necessary money from private capital, he flew over the Antarctic. He followed that trip with the daring feat of flying over both Poles, being the first man to do so. In 1929 and 1933 he led expeditions to Antarctica, returning to a hero's welcome. The Navy finally realized Byrd's determination and acknowledged his worth by giving him the rank of Admiral. He led three more expeditions to Antarctica. On the last one, in 1955, he was placed in charge of all the Antarctic activities of the United States. He is considered the father of "Operation Deep Freeze." Of interest to Freemasons is that on the Antarctic expedition of 1933, 60 of the 82 members were Freemasons. These Masons established First Antarctic Lodge 777 of New Zealand on February 5, 1935. Byrd dropped Masonic flags on both Poles at one time or another. Psychologists say that a person needs some goal or far-flung ambition to serve as a guiding light in this life. When attempts to fulfill ambitions are thwarted, then he should change his track and go onward and forward. Byrd's light is a good example. -- From Square & Compass, by way of Masonic News Letter, Goshamahal Baradari Masonic Building Committee, October 1994. THE BETTER READ MASON A REVIEW OF BOOKS The Artifact W. Michael Gear Paperback, $5.50, plus $2 shipping and handling, Penguin, USA. P.O. Box 999, Bergenfield, New Jersey 07621 or call 1-800-253-6476. It's always exciting to find a book, written for the popular press, in which Masonry plays an important part. The best known examples, perhaps, are Kipling's Kim and The Man Who Would Be King, and Heinlein's Revolt in 2100. But The Artifact, by W. Michael Gear, is highly recommended reading as a new book in this noble old tradition. Even for those who don't like science fiction, this is a good read. For those who do, it's a special treat. The book is loaded with both obvious and subtle Masonic symbolism. And there's no doubt we're dealing with Masonry. Our hero is Solomon Carrasco. His ship is named Boaz. Former ships included the Gage and the Sword. He is a member of the Brotherhood, a group which, bound by obligation to the service of mankind, is the primary source of knowledge in the star systems. The head of the Brotherhood is Galactic Grand Master Kaal. And then there is this exchange: "All right, Speaker, Boaz is yours if you have the Word and the Signs." "I have the word." "How do you have it?" "I'll letter and halve it with you." "Letter it and begin." "Begin you." "The Word is yours, you must begin." The Artifact is a lot of fun, and it's a pleasure to read a book in which Masons are heroes. If you prefer the western, read "horse" for "ship" and "Range" for "space" and enjoy it all the same. From The Oklahoma Mason, November 1994. Freemen and Freemasons James W. Beless 84 pages, $12.95 Vantage Press, Inc., 516 West 34 Street, New York, NY 10001 James Beless collects several short (less than ten pages) biographies of famous Masons in Freemen and Freemasons, A Masonic Reader. What makes these men stand out in Masonry and history? You'll pick up some world and US, as well as Masonic, history as you read the answers. You can learn more about famed explorers Lewis and Clark; department store tycoon J.C. Penney; and Jos‚ Rizal, father of Philippine independence, among others. Most of these biographies are reprinted from The Scottish Rite Journal where they have appeared over a number of years. JIMROD Q, WAXPILLOW'S MONTHLY OFFERING This frail old Mason named Sy Lay down on his bed to die But when the mortician Sought an audition Sy came up with fire in his eye WELCOME YOUR BROTHERS As one of Michigan's grand lodge officers, I visit many lodges around the state. I have noticed several things during my travels that I want to bring to your attention. We as a fraternity presumably take pride in our ritualistic ability. Yet, time after time, I see various members of a lodge rise to talk to the master with no sign of respect to him. These are not the newest members of the lodge, but the older members. In several cases it was a past master. How can we expect the other members to show respect for the officers of the lodge when we, the older members, do not do it? In several lodges, the tyler was absent for the evening, and it fell to the master to set up the lodge. After the meeting was over, he had to put away all the regalia. Not one of the other members volunteered to help him. What happened to lending a helping hand to a Brother? Many times I have walked into a lodge where no one recognized me and, believe it or not, no one came over to me to find out who I was and what I was doing there. On one occasion, I walked around the waiting room area and looked at the pictures of the lodge. The members carefully watched me but kept moving away from me. They kept a constant distance between us. I felt as if I had a disease. What's even sadder was that the Lodge had asked me to be their speaker that night. What does it take to bring out the fellowship in us? We keep telling the world what a great job we do with fellowship and yet it is not always seen. How does your lodge rate? When was the last time an unknown Brother came to visit your Lodge? Did you go over, shake his hand, and welcome him? Why not? Were you afraid of him? You might be surprised at what you learn about them. At your next meeting, make it a point to just look around at the rest of the lodge. Observe your fellow members. See how many go around the room and talk to everyone. How may of the officers make it a point to speak to all the members present before the meeting starts? Does anyone make a special effort to talk to the younger members? To make them feel comfortable? To let them know they have a Brother they can call on whenever necessary? Remember it does not cost you anything to be a friend; but you reap rewards beyond your wildest dreams when you make a friend. By Donald J. VanKirk, then junior grand warden of Michigan, From Point to Pointe, Winter 1993. DO YOU DRIVE LIKE A MASON? Editor's note: This note comes to us by a lengthy route. We found it in the Fraternal Review of the Southern California Research Lodge. They picked it up from the New Hampshire Mason which in turn found it in The Cabletow, an official publication of the Grand Lodge of the Philippines. Since we North Carolina Masons are now allowed to put Masonic emblems on our cars, it deserves our consideration. I know the benefits of displaying a Masonic emblem on one's vehicle. I know, too, that such items may enhance public awareness of our ancient and honorable Fraternity. But those of us who display Masonic emblems on our vehicles must respect the right of all others who use the streets and highways. We should go out of our way to extend the courtesies of the road to others. Any act of rudeness or irresponsibility on the part of the driver of a vehicle that displays any emblem, license plate, or bumper sticker identifying him as a Mason reflects most unfavorably upon our institution. Ergo, my Fraternity Brother, if your driving etiquette does not properly entitle you to display any Masonic emblem on your vehicle, you are urged, nay obliged, to remove such emblem. CUT RATE MASONRY Some accuse us of selling Masonry too cheaply. They believe dues and initiation fees are too low to gain us respect. Others fear raising costs would slow growth and even lose current members. Should we raise the financial costs of Masonry? Would that bring us a "higher class" petitioner? Would it make men more appreciative of the degrees? Would lowering costs make us accessible to more men who would make good Masons? These questions usually come up because of dwindling membership in the Fraternity. Ideas by the hundreds are tossed around in a search for reversing the trend. Some believe the crisis is cyclical. Many organizations are suffering the same diminishing numbers. Some jurisdictions have changed ritual and advancement requirements for the degrees in an attempt to encourage growth. Several no longer make candidates memorize a catechism. Recitations of signs, words, and obligations are sufficient to advance. Some grand lodges have gone so far as to confer all three degrees in one day to an auditorium filled with candidates. The reasoning is that Freemasonry requires too much time from its would-be members. When you're uncomfortable or alone in an unfamiliar town, the sight of a Masonic lapel pin or ring can quickly brighten your day. You can immediately speak as if this new friend were one long held. I think that feeling of kinship is stronger among Masons than other groups and clubs. What is that tie? A friendship must share experience. When you make a new acquaintance, you spend time together. As time goes by, you go to the same places and share your views on many subjects. You cultivate a shared history. This shared experience is the very basis of friendships. All North Carolina Masons, no matter their home or schooling, no matter their social position or wealth, share experience. They probably worried about their election to Masonry. They usually took a few months to get their degrees. They made sacrifices to spend the necessary time with a coach studying what they heard in lodge. They worked toward a goal that often seems unreachable. They learned it well enough to recite it before a group of men they were getting to know. They proved their desire for membership. When you meet a Mason for the first time, you already share experience. You have those months of study and proof of desire in common. You already have in place the foundation of a friendship. If you ask a Freemason how much it cost him to join the Masons, he may well have to think for a while to remember how many dollars he spent. Ask him about his coach and the nights he spent reciting catechisms before a full lodge room, and he'll light up. Chances are good that you'll quickly get a laugh and a couple of stories. The cost of Masonry to the individual Mason is not in the dollars. Too often we try to substitute dollars for caring. The true price of Freemasonry is in the time and sacrifice made by the candidate. To rob him of this payment is more frightful than to rob him of his cash. The words and signs of our Craft are easily stolen, they have been since their inception. When so gained, they have no value. It is the journey, not the destination, that give our degrees their value. No matter how great our numbers, quality versus quantity will always be debated. And men will always get out of something what they put into it. Enjoy your Masonry.