Masonic Journal See Page 5

THE

WISCONSIN MAY 2021 177th Annual Communication Resolutions. Masonic Journal See page 5 .

Wisconsin Masonic Calendar

May 2021 1 District 9 Spring District meeting, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. with lunch Disaster Relief from MSA served at noon. Janesville Masonic Center, 2322 E. Milwaukee St., Janesville. The Masonic Service Association has sent 3 District 6 Virtual Spring Meeting. 7 p.m. A virtual link will be sent out the week prior as a reminder. more than $131,000 in disaster relief assis-

6 Warren Lodge No. 4, Potosi, Annual Catfish Fry, 6:00. A great tance to the Grand Lodge of Iowa, following night to enjoy the fellowship and “river chicken”. damaging tornados late last year. The appeal 12 District 2 Spring Meeting, Baldwin American Legion Hall, 5 p.m., has been officially closed. Meal at 6:30. Cost: $15/person (pay at the door). Open to all Masons of any degree, ladies are encouraged to attend, friends are welcome. Reserve your spot through your lodge Master or Secretary by May 5. Appeals, however, continue for the Grand

14 Three Pillars Senior Living Communities presents a Taste of Lodge of Louisiana, following two hurricanes Three Pillars. A virtual Culinary Celebration at 6 p.m. Go to www.three- from the Gulf of Mexico last year. So far, more pillars.org for more information. than $53,000 has gone to Louisiana. An ap- 22 Keystone Motorcycle Show, Keystone Chapter, Wisconsin Wid- ows Sons Masonic Riders Association. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lyla’s Pub, peal for the Grand Lodge of Mississippi, which 2962 Wis-73, Wisconsin Rapids. Questions contact: Chapter President Toxic 715-697-9080. suffered hurricane damage, is also still ongoing, with only limited contributions received so far. June 2021 3 Buffalo River Lodge No. 252, Blood Drive, Marten Center in AlI donations, which are tax deductible, Mondovi. Call Master Duane Sokolosky at 715-214-4373. should be sent to the MSA, 813 1st Avenue 4-5 177th Annual Communication, Wisconsin Masonic Center. SE, Suite 357, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402. 27 Landmark Lodge No 244, 4th Annual Golf Social. Public Wel- come. 10:30 a.m. registration and putting contest, Noon shotgun start, 5 p.m. dinner. Frederic Golf Course, 9005 S. Wisconsin Ave., Frederic. The Masonic Service Association of North America Contact Spencer at 715-866-8313. See page 28 of the online edition. Emessay Notes April 2021

July 2021

10 District 6 is hosting a Masonic Night at the Ballpark, featuring the Wisconsin Rapids Rafters vs. Green Bay Booyah. Direct questions to: [email protected] or 715-712-4001. See page 18.

12 Lake Country Freemasons Lodge No. 42, 18th Annual "Pay It Forward" Golf Outing at The Legend at Brandybrook in Wales. See page 18.

August 2021 7 Three Lakes Car, Boat and Motorcycle Show, 9 a.m., Northwoods Petroleum Museum, US-45 & WI-32, Three Lakes. Sponsored by Eagle River Lodge No. 248 and Eagle Chapter #218 OES. For information contact PGM Carl Wussow at [email protected]. Visit the new Grand Lodge Website 21 Chetek Lodge No. 277, Summer 100 Bird Trap Shoot. Registra- tion at 9:30 a.m.,shooting starts at 10:30 a.m. Blue HIills Sportsmens www.wimasons.org Club, 1604 23-24, ½ St., Rice Lake. Contact Bro. Chuck Harrison at 715-456-8415 for more information.

29 Brewers-Twins Baseball Sunday, Target Field, Minneapolis. Grand October 2021 Lodge 30 Reedsburg Lodge No. 79, Shed Lodge. Fellowship starts at 4 F. & A.M. p.m., dinner at 5 p.m. of WI Twitter February 2022 Like us on Facebook www.twitter.com/WI_Freemasons 19-23 2022 Conference of Grand Masters of North America. THE M WaISCOsNSINo nic Journal

VOLUME LIV, NUMBER 5 The Official Publication of the Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin May 2021

Modernizing and Expansion Begins on The Grand Master’s Message: Three Pillars Senior Living Campus By Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Wisconsin Brother Kenneth C. Gorgen My Brothers, Every morning when Lady Jan and I sit down for coffee we watch the Today show, and every day there is something about COVID- 19. The reports are mostly always the same on how many folks have been vaccinated, how many vaccinations are available, if the new cases are dropping or rising, and how people seem to be relaxing their guard on protecting themselves and their families. We are all tired of quarantining ourselves and spending time alone. All one needs to do to confirm that people are at the end of their patience is to look at the beaches in Florida during Spring Break. During the past year many of us have felt so cut off from each other; adults and children alike. The quick cure for that quar- antined induced loneliness is, of course, being together. Unfortunately, spending time on a beach elbow-to-elbow with hundreds of other unmasked people could very well push us into Grand Master Aerial rendering of new renovation. more quarantine time. Kenneth C. Gorgen I compliment the Wisconsin Lodges that are For over 115 years we have offer adults 55 and older a full residents and staff with industry served thousands of families and leading high-quality care, pro- working hard to maintain safety guidelines and still strive in succeed- continuum of care on our ing to ease the loneliness of its members through virtual meetings, residents. Our dedication to our wooded, 295-acre campus in Wis- gramming, and accommodations. rich history of mission-based serv- In 2014 we started work on a with our Brother Jim offering the 9 O’clock Toast, by continuing the consin’s beautiful Lake Country. use of the Wellness committees, and by taking safety precautions ices exists as strongly today as it We consistently look for ways did when we started in 1905. We See Three Pillars on page 15 when meeting in person. Having the patience to let an uncomfort- to provide our current and future able situation pass so we can continue our work is not new to Ma- sonry. Masonry has persevered through other plagues, through membership ups and downs, through anti-Masonic attacks, etc. Grand Master’s Edict Limits One Some dictatorships, at times, even brought lodges and members to their knees as members were forced to go into hiding. Now, unfortunately, we have the pandemic. Representative Per Lodge at AC But it seems without skipping a beat, our modern-day Masons WHEREAS: Dane County is where no food is served and 150 Masonic Code specifies in article have persevered. Lodges are having events where members can be enforcing restrictions on gather- people when food is served. “8.01 Votes of the Members. In together. These events, whether working or celebrating are filled with

ings and meetings to 350 people all elections and on all questions gaiety and fellowship, and these occasions are taking place safely WHEREAS: The Wisconsin before the Grand Lodge each while keeping the ugly face of COVID at bay. We are still feeding chartered lodge shall be entitled to the hungry. We are still pushing forward to grow a Fraternity by ini- three votes and each Grand Offi- tiating good men and by passing them on to be Fellowcrafts. We are cer, Grand Trustee, District Lec- still making a difference in our communities with events where the Grand Master Recinds all turer, District Chaplain, Area Administrator, and certain of its public can take part. We are still raising our glass to toast at a Table COVID Restrictions members, designated in Sec. 8.07 Lodge. Soon the day will soon come when we will be performing as Permanent Members, to one Master Mason degrees and when that day comes, all our new Broth- My Brothers, vote.” ers will be able to support the lodge and help it grow. Our ritual reminds us to practice patience and perseverance. It has been a long haul since COVID interrupted our normal lives and WHEREAS: Three (3) in- we know that there will be a new normal for a while into the future. These are two different things. Patience is the ability to endure dif- person votes from each chartered ficult situations without being annoyed or anxious. Perseverance is With more folks being vaccinated and new positive information forth lodge will exceed the 350-person coming each day, it is time to return to some of our long overdue ac- the quality of continuing with something even though it is difficult. tivities. I believe that your patience and perserverance has paid off. limit specified by Dane County. Jacob Riis gives us a great example of the two, “Look at a stone cut- Pursuant to Article 2.05 of the Many lodges have met and performed degrees using prescribed meth- ter hammering away at his rock, perhaps a hundred times without Wisconsin Masonic Code (June as much as a crack showing in it. Yet with the hundred-and-first blow ods to keep the members and candidates safe with much success. As 2019 Revised Edition) the members and leadership has worked to do that safely, I believe it is it breaks in two.” The last blow was the contributor to the proceeding It is therefore my edict: blows. All blows were valuable in breaking the rock. Very much like time to put the responsibility of COVID safety into the hands of the Worshipful Master, officers, and members of each constituent lodge. some of the basketball games we watched during March Madness. Conference in-person attendance That last three-point basket at the final second was needed to win As of May 1, 2021, I am rescinding all COVID restrictions and opening at the 177th Annual Communica- the game. But all the baskets made during the competition were also the lodges to work in all degrees. It will be the responsibility of Wor- tion of the Grand Lodge of Wis- needed to make that last desperate shot a valuable contribution. One shipful Master to govern his lodge in a safe manner. consin will be limited to the basket is not any more valuable than the rest. following directives . . . At that time, all constituent lodges may go back to running stated meet- My Brothers, my plea to you is patience to perseverance to see ings in the Master Mason degree. However, because of the short dura- • One (1) delegate per con- this through to the end. We do need to break this stone or win this tion of time beforce the Annual Communication, Worshipful Masters stituent lodge who shall carry game. We do need to finally round the corner of the pandemic and wishing to have stated meetings in the Entered Apprentice degree may proxies for the other two (2) break its hold on us. Now is not the time to let down our guard. It is continue to do so until June 1, 2021. delegates of the lodge just as important now as it was months ago to have patience and There are some requirements and recommendations for consideration: • All officers of the Grand perseverance. • Federal, state and local counties or communities may have spe- Lodge per article 6.01 of the So, when the time comes to safely remove the mask, always re- cific laws pertaining to group meetings. These are to be followed to Wisconsin Masonic Code member giving a handshake or a hug is more of a privilege than we the letter. • All Area Administrators could have ever imagined or remembering the happy experience of • Wisconsin Masonic Code governs in all Masonic matters. • All District Lecturers attending a crowded event without later counting the days to confirm • Safety protocol should be a first consideration as COVID is still • All permanent members per that you did not pick up the virus when attending. active and infections are still occurring. article 8.07 of the Wisconsin How comforting it will be to know our families and communities • Virtual meetings should always be considered if it will satisfy the Masonic Code are safe. I look forward to those days. need. • All past safeguards should be considered as important. Per article 8.02, dual voting is Best wishes in Brotherly, not allowed. o Masks Brother Ken o Hand washing and hand sanitizing “8.02 Dual Voting Prohibited. o Lodge equipment sanitizing If a Grand Officer, Grand Trustee o Temperature taking or permanent member is a repre- • Although food can be served, safeguard recommendations for sentative of a lodge, he may vote cleanliness should be used to prevent the spread of the virus. • Bottled water available is important. in either of his capacities, but not in both.” • Keeping close records on attendance at meetings. In closing let me thank you all for doing all you have done to keep our Given under my hand this 20th On Our Cover Brothers and their families safe and healthy this past year. The pan- day of April 2021. demic is not over yet, and vigilance has to be maintained. Each Wor- Official groundbreaking for the new construction at Three Pillars shipful Master needs to think about each Brother in his Lodge, Senior Living Communities in Dousman. From left: Eric Nitschke, especially those that regularly attend Lodge events, and urge those P.E., Director of Facilities Management and Capital Projects; Don whose health is not at its best to consider attending virtually where that Jensen, Wis. Masonic Home Board Member; CEO Mark Straut- is happening or staying away from Lodge for a while longer. In short, Grand Master man; Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen; Robert Roth, Wis. Ma- it is right and good to error on the side of not having an "at risk" elder Kenneth C. Gorgen sonic Home Board Member; Bill Huelsman, Planning Committee being in Lodge, except when that Brother insists on attending. Do this as a matter of Masonic morality and good will. Member; and Jean Freuck, Chief Financial Officer. See photos on 177th Annual Communication of the page 12. Sincerely and fraternally, Grand Lodge F. & A.M. of Wisconsin Photo by Rich Rygh Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen June 4-5, 2021

GL Officers Happy to be back Thoughts for the Journey In Person for Staff Meeting By Reverend David O. Leistra, Grand Chaplain Brethren, Before you could truly enter fellowship with a lodge as a Brother By Rich Rygh had 30 and 40 year members go you had to be clear in your mind regarding one matter that was not Grand Master Kenneth C. Gor- through the books and say the something of small consequence or just a hurtle to get over, but with- gen called the Spring Grand have learned from them. Follow- out clarity when asked a question regarding it Lodge Staff meeting to order at 2 ing the program will have a posi- you could go no further. The question is, “in p.m. on April 23 at the Saint Kate tive effect on retaining our new whom do you place your trust?” Trust in this Hotel in Milwaukee. The officers Brothers. case means your ultimate trust. There is only were very happy to be back to- Grand Treasurer Jeffrey S. Bry- one acceptable answer to this question, and you gether again as this was the first den brought the officers up to date know what it is, or you likely would not be read- in person staff meeting in over a on where we are financially at this ing this article. I have long believed that one’s year. time. These are very unusual faith is really defined by that which they believe Grand Chaplain David O. Leis- times. The Grand Lodge is doing in and trusts to the point that they would base tra opened with a prayer followed very well. their life on it. In our fraternity we have recog- by the “Pledge of Allegiance” by The Saturday meeting began at nized that if we do not believe in something be- Grand Marshal Michael A. Gor- 8:30 with Grand Secretary yond ourselves any promise we might make or gen and the “Tribute to the Flag” Michael A. DeWolf, PGM, intro- oath we might take would be meaningless be- by Past Master Robert C. Strader. ducing the new cipher which is cause our answer would be based on no higher Grand Master Gorgen stated now loose leaf so pages can be re- Grand Chaplain authority than ourselves. that he is about to rescind his moved and added to keep it up to David O. Leistra As a fraternity we have always believed that COVID Edicts and turn the con- date. Updates are included. Mem- we must be held responsible for our actions by one beyond ourselves, trol over to the Lodges beginning bers must request the updates and indeed beyond all humanity’s power to hold one accountable. May 1. Until the Annual Commu- from the Grand Lodge. It is avail- We have seen that one who recognizes no authority above them- nication the lodges may continue able at the Square Store. selves other than perhaps that of the coercive power of the state doing business in the EA Degree Grand Senior Deacon Thomas Grand Master Kenneth C. often will only do harm in the world. History has shown that if the if they choose to do so. W. Stevens and designer Allen Gorgen welcomes the state is unwilling or unable to hold people accountable for their ac- The District Deputy Grand Mas- Luke introduced the new Grand Brethren to the meeting. tions the destruction of their society soon follows. Our fraternity has ters gave the reports on what is Lodge website which is a work in a long memory of the folly of allowing those who hold no sense of happening in their Districts on progress. It is available now at part of the Grand Lodge Strategic accountability beyond themselves into our lodges, therefore if one both Friday and Saturday. The www.wimasons.org. See page 20 Plan. fails to offer the correct answer when asked, where do they place District Deputies reported many of this issue. The old website will Past Grand Master Robert C. their trust, go no further in gaining what knowledge, wisdom, and degrees being conferred, with a lot be going away in May of this year. Strader gave a short talk on how fellowship we have to offer. At least that is how it is supposed to be of outside community activities Junior Grand Deacon Jeffrey the COVID-19 has effected the done in every lodge. coming back. There are many S. Schoenfeldt gave a presenta- lodges. He said we are seeing ex- It is the responsibility of every Worshipful Master in particular, young members coming in and tion on the Lodge Briefing Book- and every Master Mason in general to be sure in their mind that any the Wellness Committees have let and the Mentoring Plan to be See Meeting on page 15 had a very positive result on the candidate, without prompting of any kind, has offered the only ac- lodges. Most lodges are back ceptable answer to that most crucial question. In my view it is not meeting with many lodges going an overstatement when I say that the harmony and future of our out of their way to assist Brothers lodges, and by extension that of the Grand Lodge, lies in how we in need of assistance. Building all answer that question not only on our first entrance into a lodge, renovations are up. The COVID but every time thereafter. Therefore, I ask us all, every Brother from has had positive effects on some the Grand Master down to the next man who takes a knee to attend lodges due to the virtual meetings to prayer in hopes of being called a Brother, “in whom do you place becoming popular allowing distant your trust”?” Is the answer you would give a truthful one and the members to be included. A few same answer required of all those wishing to become a Brother mergers have taken place and are amongst us? Is your answer, even now, the only appropriate and in the works and several failing acceptable one? The answer, that when first asked it if you were un- lodges have been turned around. able or unwilling to answer as appropriate would, or ought to have Senior Grand Warden Paul T. resulted in your having been led out of the front door without having Tourville urged the DDGMs not to seen or heard anything further concerning the lodge and that which let the Wellness Committees go we have to offer? Of all the questions you were asked before you away now that the COVID is slow- were called Brother and thereafter none was, or is, more important; ing down. His lodge has had great none more fundamental to what it means to be a Mason than that success with having the new Ma- which I here refer to. So again, I ask us Brothers all “In whom do sons call everyone in the lodge you place your trust”? I believe that how you and I answer that ques- and introduce themselves. tion will have more to do with the success or failure of our experi- Deputy Grand Master Gary L. ence in the fraternity than anything else. Collectively how we answer Stang spoke on the proper use of it and expect candidates for the EA degree to answer it, will deter- the Wisconsin Program. He stated mine the future of the fraternity more so than any program or fun that he feels the mentors are the activities we can conceive of to attract new men or retain our mem- most important people in our fra- bers. I hope and pray we can all answer as we did when first asked Grand Secretary Michael A. DeWolf introduces the new up- it and while on one knee with all the Brothers there listening closely ternity. It is important to use and dated cipher in loose leaf form available at the Square Store. follow the books. He said he has for how we would answer so they could know if they would be calling Photos by Rich Rygh us Brother or showing us the door. What say you?

Fraternally Yours, Worshipful Brother David O. Leistra Directory of Grand Lodge Officers & Contacts Grand Chaplain David O. Leistra can be reached at Grand Master Junior Grand Deacon District 4 [email protected] or 920-818-1041. Kenneth C. Gorgen (307) Jeffrey S. Schoenfeldt (319) Christian M. Hirthe (322) Grand Lodge Cell 262-501-1879 608-609-1447 920-840-3666 Office

[email protected] jeff.schoenfeldt@ wimasons.org [email protected] Grand Lodge F. & A. M. of Wisconsin Email your Lodge News and Upcoming Events Senior Grand Steward 36275 Sunset Dr. Deputy Grand Master District 5 Dousman, WI 53118 [email protected]. Gary L. Stang (351) Craig J. Froelich (9) 608-258-8814 Jacob R. Schultz (190) 715-864-6813 (608) 778-5610 262-965-2200 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Fax: 262-965-4211 Junior Grand Steward

Senior Grand Warden Dennis J. Krahn (145) District 6 Grand Secretary: Paul T. Tourville (60) 262-716-6110 James R. Giese (128) 414-659-5205 [email protected] Michael A. DeWolf, PGM 715-213-6326 [email protected] Ext. 201 Published by the Grand Lodge, Grand Marshal [email protected] [email protected] Michael A. Gorgen (307) Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin Junior Grand Warden District 7 David R. Ritchie (64) 262-820-0812 May 2021 [email protected] Matthew H. Ivens (325) Membership Support: 608-776-2698 608-212-9053 The Wisconsin Masonic Journal, Publication Number 011-551 (ISSN No. [email protected] Cheryl Martin - Ext. 200 10770410), is the authorized publication of the Grand Lodge, Free and Grand Orator [email protected] Jerry A. Reick (363) [email protected] Accepted Masons of Wisconsin. It is published monthly except for the Grand Treasurer 414-335-2558 District 8 Jeffrey L. Bryden (95) July/August issue which is combined. Periodical postage paid at Dousman, [email protected] Daniel C. Brylla (79) Erika Miller - Ext. 203

414-491-5664 940-231-9818 [email protected] Wisconsin 53118 and additional offices. Postmasters: send address changes to [email protected] Grand Tiler [email protected] The Wisconsin Masonic Journal, 36275 Sunset Drive, Dousman, WI 53118. Thomas A. Schlicht (307) Christina Jester - Ext. 204

Grand Secretary 414-852-3214 [email protected] Subscription Rates: District 9 Michael A. DeWolf, PGM (267) [email protected] Non-members (within United States): $15.00 per year (payable in advance) Derek M. Henze (57) 414-316-0210 Wisconsin Masonic Non-members (mailed outside of the United States): $50.00 (payable in advance) G.L. 262-965-2200 Ext. 807 262-473-9585 [email protected] District Deputy [email protected] Journal Members: $8.50 per year (included in the Grand Lodge per capita)

Grand Masters Grand Chaplain District 10 Richard A. Rygh, Editor Editorial Production Office Charles L. Smith (167) David O. Leistra (174) District 1 262-965-2200 Ext. 209 Richard A. Rygh, Editor Dennis M. Schultz (329) 920-540-4756 920-818-1041 [email protected] 5823 Madsen Circle, Oregon, WI 53575-1711 [email protected] (715) 394-5620 [email protected] email: [email protected] [email protected] Phone 262-965-2200 Ext. 209 District 11 David R. Ritchie, Ass’t. Editor Grand Lecturer Patrick D. Cholka (301) District 2 Christopher M. Luedke (37) 608-482-3552 Advertising Office Phone/FAX 262-965-3979 414-254-5543 Earl Gunderson (192) 262-490-3330 [email protected] [email protected] 715-495-5763 [email protected] Diane Igl, Advertising Manager [email protected] email: [email protected] Diane Igl, Ad Manager Senior Grand Deacon District 12 District 3 [email protected] Thomas W. Stevens (112) Jeffrey S. Thiele (189) Advertising rates upon request. Deadline for submission of advertising 715-579-8949 Jacob W. Seever (130) 414-530-0607 262-965-3979 715-218-7046 copy is the fifteenth of each month preceding month of scheduled pub- [email protected] [email protected] 36275 Sunset Dr., [email protected] lication. Dousman, WI 53118

PAGE 2 - WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 177th Annual Communication at NOTES FROM THE GRAND LECTURER Madison Masonic Center June 4-5 By Brother Patrick D. Cholka

Editors Note: This is the latest in- 5, 2021. also invited to attend any non-tiled Greetings Brethren, formation available at press time. You can purchase tickets for events. It is well understood that the symbolism of Freemasonry runs Please watch for any future breakfast, lunch, the ladies’ lunch- Breakfast will be available at the throughout the ritual. Some of it is on the surface like the meaning changes. eon and the evening dinners on Madison Concourse on Friday of the working tools. Other examples of symbolism are not so ob- Eventbrite. Detailed instructions and Saturday for men and ladies vious. To understand some of this symbolism Information for Delegates are provided on the lower left cor- from 6:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. we need to understand why it is included in Grand Master Kenneth C. Gor- ner of this article under AC Meal The Annual Meeting will open our ritual to begin with. gen extends a cordial and fraternal Tickets. Tickets must be pur- at 8:00 a.m. Friday, June 4. A good symbol to illustrate this are the greeting to you, your Lady and chased in advance by May 19, Dress at the Annual Communica- wages of the Fellow Craft. Our ancient, oper- your Lodge on the occasion of the 2021. tion is coat and tie with your ative Brethren earned and received physical 177th Annual Communication to The meetings and meals are apron of choice. wages for the work they performed. While be held at the Madison Masonic open to any Wisconsin Master The Grand Master’s Lady, Jan their actual compensation varied between Center located at 301 Wisconsin Mason in good standing with a Gorgen, extends a warm invita- work sites and the tasks performed, our ritual Avenue, Madison, on June 4 and 2021 dues card. The ladies are tion to the Ladies to join her on has chosen corn, wine, and oil to illustrate Friday for a ladies’ luncheon at the this. Like most things in our ritual, this is not Lewis Station Winery in Lake by accident. Mills, Wis. Tickets are available on While the ritual notes that the corn is that Bring to the 177th Eventbrite. of nourishment, the wine of refreshment and Grand Lecturer On Friday, June 4, Brethren the oil of joy, I believe that it is what these Patrick D. Cholka Annual Communication and ladies are invited to attend the three denote, or symbolize, that our Masonic Public Installation of the newly forefathers sought to emphasize. Corn, wine, and oil have several • 2021 Dues Card elected Grand Master and his Of- allusions, all of which illustrate their various applications and their • Apron & Face Mask (none will be provided) ficers at 4:30 p.m. at the Wiscon- importance to the survival and prosperity of society. Our ritual tells • Print and bring all meal tickets sin Masonic Center, followed by us that it is plenty, health and peace which are significant. It can the Installation Banquet at the be difficult to think of the wages for the benefit they provide to our Madison Concourse. The attire character. for the evening is a business suit. To our ancient Brethren, corn, wine, and oil covered the whole The Madison Concourse is the range of man’s needs. They were the master’s wages during the AC Meal Tickets Headquarters Hotel throughout days of King Solomon. Today Masons receive no material wages Must be Purchased by May 19, 2021 the Annual Communication. for their labors, the work done in the Lodge is paid for only in the There are also many other hotel coin of the heart. choices in the area. When the Brother is told of the wages he will receive as a Fellow You can purchase tickets for you and your Lady for breakfast, Representatives and Proxies lunch, the ladies’ luncheon and the evening dinners on the Grand Craft, he is told that he will receive these as his speculative wages, All lodges are entitled to repre- he is being told that if he puts into practice the teachings of this Lodge website at www.wisc-freemasonry.org. Select the AC Regis- sentation in Grand Lodge, how- tration box from the sidebar. Enter your promotional code, which is degree, he will receive the reward of a nourished mind and body; ever, this year per the Grand that he will be refreshed by consciousness of work well done; and AC2021. Select the tickets you desire and how many. Follow Masters Edict only one represen- through to complete the process. You will receive an email confir- know the joys of brotherhood, of achievement, and of a life well tative per lodge will be allowed, lived. For a Brother who is interested in improving his moral and mation with your tickets to be printed out and brought with you to however, they can hold all three the Annual Communication. No tickets will be available for sale at spiritual values these wages are far more valuable and worthwhile ballots for their lodge. Proxy than mere monetary compensation. the Annual Communication. Tickets must be purchased in advance forms will still be required for by May 19, 2021. Due to Dane County COVID-19 rules, all meals those voting officers not attend- Fraternally, will be offered at the Madison Concourse and limited to 150 people. ing. Proxy forms have been Patrick Cholka – Grand Lecturer The Annual Session and installation of officers will be held at the mailed to the Worshipful Master Wisconsin Masonic Center. See on page 6 Feedback and questions are always welcome. AC Contact Grand Lecturer Patrick D.Cholka at [email protected]

Something for Everyone at District 2 Spring Meeting

Have some fun and celebrate at Stang will bring everyone up to the District 2 Spring Meeting at date on the Status of Annual the Baldwin American Legion Communication and his vision for May 12. This meeting again will our fraternity going forward. have something for everyone. So- Masons of all degrees, spouses, cial time will be from 5-6:30 p.m., girlfriends, potential Masons and with dinner at 6:30. Program will friends are invited to attend. follow. Make your reservations through There will be awards presented your lodge Secretary before May for D-2 Rookie of the Year and D- 5th. DDGM Earl Gunderson will 2 Mason of the Year. Bro. Marcus contact him on May 5 for the total A. Mueller, Glen Avon Lodge, Du- number coming from your lodge luth, Minnesota, will speak on for a final meal count. If not in Freemasonry during the Holo- District 2 contact DDGM Gunder- caust. Deputy Grand Master Gary son at [email protected]. Camp Douglas Hunter’s Raffle Drawing is June 1

Hunters and friends can still take The drawing will be June 1, advantage of Camp Douglas 2021 with proceeds going to Lodge No. 272’s gun raffles even Camp Douglas elementary with the COVID-19 restrictions. schools, high school scholarships This year the annual Hunter’s and the Camp Douglas Fire De- Night has been cancelled but the partment. Lodge will be selling tickets for a More information will be com- 24 gun safe, a rifle, a shotgun and ing in upcoming Wisconsin Ma- two handguns. sonic Journals. There will be 500 tickets sold Contact Bro. Wade Parker at at $20 each. Tickets are on sale 608-343-0592 or Bro. Chuck now. Huffman at 608-315-0056.

Advertise in the Wisconsin Masonic Journal The Number 1 Source for Reaching the Masons of Wisconsin Contact Diane Igl 262-965-3979 E-mail: [email protected]

WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 - PAGE 3 Freemasonry 101 Recap from March 13 THE GENTLEMAN IN THE ROOM By Junior Grand Warden David R. Ritchie

A friend sent me a Theodore Roosevelt quote, “Courtesy is as much a mark of a gentleman as courage.” This quote implies so many different ideas of civility. First a gentleman is courteous. Sec- ond a gentleman is courageous. Third being a gentleman involves many different things. The one that struck me though was that it often takes courage to be courteous or a gentleman. We have a fear of being different. The media keeps tell us to fit in. Advertising is often based on being part of the pack. Teenagers often as- sert their “independence” or proclaim they are doing their own thing by wearing their generation’s uniform, listening to “today’s music”, or speaking with the trendy modern slang. We want to fit in. The whole idea of civility is to co- operate and share ideas in a world made up of Bro. David R. so many different people. Yet, a gentleman Ritchie stands out. He doesn’t simply follow the crowd. Junior Grand Warden Freemasonry 101 Live Contributors and Presenters from left: Adam Witt, District 11 Deputy A few years ago, the Grand Lodge officers Grand Master Christopher M. Luedke, Grand Orator Jerry A. Reick, Robert Roth, Frank challenged themselves in an exercise in courtesy. We would stand McKenna, Grand Lecturer Patrick D. Cholka, Area Administrator Ray Mielke and Brian Douss. when a lady approached or left the table. On the surface very simple. In truth much harder than it first appears. That first weekend at the By Christopher M. Luedke justments had to be made. That higher level content just like a col- staff meeting was fun. Gentle ribbing when someone forgot and the District 11 Deputy Grand Master said imagining if new MDoL can- lege, with 100 level content ladies found it fun. We were in a group were everyone knew what

didates went through a three-hour through 400 level content. was going on. We soon discovered the discipline needed to be aware On March 13 we held the Masonic Primer covering every- The Freemasonry 101 event of all of your table mates. Were they about to stand or just finishing Freemasonry 101 Live Event at thing from degrees, to what to do also proved that we can create their meal? It is surprising how quickly someone can sit down. Neat the Scottish Rite in Milwaukee. the first time they came to a meet- and provide a live education event exercise in self-discipline but no courage needed in our small group. Despite some early technical is- ing. This is one of the primary with a collection of diverse speak- However, the challenge was to stand for a lady throughout that year sues we did manage to produce goals for the Education Commit- ers. Imagine an annual event wherever you were. 11 presentations primarily geared tee, to provide education to these where we discuss a specific topic Standing in a restaurant or non-Masonic social function became for new EA’s out and proved a newly raised Masons. for three hours, say a specific de- intimidating as you began to feel eyes upon you. Maybe it is best new model for Masonic Education What about other Brothers gree. Imagine the depth we can not to draw attention? Two of us soon after the challenge was made in Wis. Our goal going in was to raised in the traditional fashion? provide and think about the con- found ourselves attending an out of state Masonic event. In a room prove the concept and by most That is where the new Online Ma- versations we could stimulate full of some of the most courteous and kind men the two of us stood measures it worked. sonic College will come into play. within your lodge. whenever a lady was seated or stood to leave. The two of us certainly This program opens the door You will be able to provide the Freemasonry 101 was the first were noticed. Wives began to tease their husbands, when we stood for new possibilities in Masonic same content or more spread step to modernizing Masonic Ed- heads turned. It was uncomfortable to say the least. There is where Education, education following throughout their Masonic Jour- ucation in Wis. We are taking ad- the courage comes in. As Masons we strive to be on the level but any Masonic Day of Light for ney. We will be able to track a vantage of everyone’s new we were standing out. newly raised Masons, general ed- Brother’s degree level and provide knowledge of Zoom to bring Today we live in a world where we don’t use titles such as Mr., ucation and the New Masonic Col- appropriate content automatically. speakers from across the state Mrs., or Dr. Are you brave enough to start using titles in public when lege. By using Zoom we could For everyone else we are creating into your home or Lodge, and no one else does? Today celebrities and the wealthy often appear reach across the state and we did. content as we speak to begin to fill archiving that material as well as in old jeans and a tee-shirt or sweatshirt at important events. Are The original goal was for this pro- out the new Online Masonic Col- developing more for the Online you brave enough to put on a jacket and tie if the occasion calls for gram to follow a Spring MDoL. lege. The 11 presentations from Masonic College. Our next goal it? Today swearing and vulgarity is the norm in conversation. Are That event did not happen so ad- the Freemasonry 101 Live event will be to see the materials used you brave enough not to use it around friends, let alone calling some- are already set to go as soon as regularly and continue to develop one out for using it when inappropriate? Today people treat waitstaff Attend and Support we get the go ahead. As time pro- the program over the next few and sales people with either indifference or rudeness. Do you have Your Lodge! gresses we will work on providing years. the courage to be kind? Today we fear discussing things in public for fear of censure. Do you have the backbone to state your ideas and then listen to others? I can guarantee these things will get noticed. Some will see you putting on airs or attempting to demean others by your actions. Some will regard you with jealous contempt. I joined Eastern Star, come & serve with me. Do you have what it takes to do what is right when others around you are not? Theodore Roosevelt was right. Both courtesy and courage are marks of a gentleman. It won’t always be easy to do the right thing. The Masonic virtue of Prudence teaches that we should not act out of rashness or cowardice. Civility is not something to hang in the closet and only take out for special occasions nor is it something that should be exercised only when comfortable. Civility and courtesy Hi, my name is Lava. should never be used to demean someone or for self-aggrandize- I am ready to guide you ment. This is what makes you a cut above. This is what makes you to the 129th Session the gentleman in the room. Theodore Roosevelt stated, “The best prize that life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth of the Wisconsin Grand doing.” It is not easy or for the faint hearted to build the temple we Chapter, Order of toil on. Not everyone can say that they are brave enough to do what is right especially when it goes against the norm, but you can my the Eastern Star. Brother. You are a Mason and a gentleman. See you there!! Feedback and questions are always welcome. Contact Junior Grand Warden David R. Ritchie at [email protected]

STEVENS POINT OR BUST!

Call: 262.975.2200 [email protected]

All Master Masons and their female relatives are eligible to join.

PAGE 4 - WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 177th Annual Communication Unfinished Business & Resolutions The following resolutions will be considered for adoption by lodge representatives (three Resolution Number 4-2021 principal constituent lodge officers or their proxies) Grand Lodge Officers and Permanent Submitted By: Jefferson County Lodge #9 Members of Grand Lodge at the 177th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin in Madison, June 4 and 5, 2021. (Note: Deletions Sections Affected: 81.09 WMC are indicated by strike through; additions are indicated by underline; omitted text is indicated by **.) Vote required for Adoption: Three-Fourths Unfinished Business Report Purpose: To declare a completed Form 81, or its successor form(s), entirely sufficient At the close of business of the 176th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Free to suspend a Brother Mason for non-payment of dues; to prohibit the imposition of further and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin there was no unfinished business held over to be con- action or requirements for the execution of said form by any person or body upon a sidered at the 177th Annual Communication. Lodge, the Officers thereof, or the Brothers thereof; and to cause the suspension to take effect in the year in which the Form 81 was submitted. Resolution Number 1-2021 Resolved, that Section 81.09 of the Wisconsin Masonic Code be amended as follows. Submitted By: Expenditures Committee 81.09 Procedure Continued. At the first stated communication of the lodge Vote required for Adoption: Majority immediately following November 1, the Secretary shall certify to the lodge the names of Purpose: To adopt a budget for fiscal year 2021-2022. all members upon whom a Form 81 has been completed, demand has been made and who are still delinquent. A vote of two-thirds of the members present will be required to Resolved, that the attached budget, which has been mailed to all constituent Lodges in send Form 81 on to the Grand Master Lodge Office to finalize the suspension. Having accordance with Section 29.05 ( c ), calling for expenditures of $1,377,238 be adopted. fully complied with the aforesaid provisions and proof of indebtedness having been duly established in each case, Form 81 for each delinquent member will be submitted to the Grand Master for approval no later than December 1st of each year. Upon receipt, of the Grand Master the Grand Secretary will enter the members suspension into MORI.

The submission of a completed Form 81, or its successor form(s), to Grand Lodge shall be considered entirely sufficient to suspend a Brother Mason for non- payment of dues and/or assessments. No person or body shall impose upon a Lodge, the Officers thereof, or the Brothers thereof, further action or requirements for the execution of said form(s).

The suspension for non-payment of dues shall take effect in the year in which the completed Form 81, or its successor form(s), is submitted.

Resolution Number 5-2021

Submitted By: Kenosha Lodge #47

Sections Affected: 65.04 WMC

Vote required for Adoption: Three-Fourths

Purpose: To allow a Stated Communication to be open in any degree for the transaction of business.

Resolved, that Section 65.04, of the Wisconsin Masonic Code be amended as follows.

65.04 A Stated Communication. is on Master Mason Degree. At a stated communication a lodge may open in any degree for the transaction of business. must open and close on the Master Mason degree, on which degree all of the business of the lodge shall be transacted; It may call down to a lower degree for examination or work and then resume labor in the former degree prior to closing. “The Master, at his discretion, may close the Lodge of M.M. and open a Lodge of a lower degree for the purpose of examination and/or degree work. The Lodge shall then be closed in due form pursuant to the last degree.”

Resolution Number 6-2021 Submitted By: David R. Ritchie – Junior Grand Warden

Sections Affected: 51.01 Signers of Petitions

Vote required for Adoption: Three-Fourths

Purpose: To reduce the number of Master Masons that must sign a petition for dispensation to open a new Lodge from 25 to 10.

Resolved, Section 51.01 of the Wisconsin Masonic Code be amended as follows.

51.01 Signers of Petition. Every petition for a dispensation to form and open a new lodge shall be signed by not less than Ten Twenty-five Master Masons in good standing, non-affiliated, or affiliated in a lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction or in a lodge in a Grand Jurisdiction permitting plural membership.

Resolution Number 7-2021 Submitted By: West Allis Lodge #291

Sections Affected: 65.04 WMC

Vote required for Adoption: Three-Fourths

Purpose: To allow a Stated Communication to be open in any degree for the transaction of business.

Resolved, that Section 65.04, of the Wisconsin Masonic Code be amended as follows.

65.04 A Stated Communication is on the Degree of Attendance. Master Mason Degree. At a stated communication a lodge must open and close on the highest degree possible amongst those in attendance. Master Mason degree, on which degree all of the business of the lodge shall be transacted; it may call down to a lower degree for examination or work. “The Master, at his discretion, may close the Lodge of M.M. and open a Lodge of a lower degree for the purpose of examination and/or degree work. The Lodge shall then be closed in due form pursuant to the last degree.” Typical business of the lodge may be conducted in any degree including but not limited to opening, closing, receipts and payments, regular communication, Grand Lodge communications, Sickness and Dis- tress, receiving petitions and committee reports.

01) Prohibited Business. Business topics restricted to the Master Mason degree include elections of any sort and disciplinary business of any sort including procedures for suspension for non-payment of dues. The Master of the lodge will retain the right to determine what other topics not listed are appropriate to be restricted to the Master Mason degree.

02) Only Master Masons are Entitled to Vote on Lodge Business. As neither Entered

Resolution Number 2-2021 Apprentices nor Fellowcrafts are considered full members of the lodge, they are denied Submitted By: Expenditures Committee the right to vote on the business of the lodge. However, as they are affected presently and in the in the future by the decisions of the lodge, they may, at the discretion of the Vote required for Adoption: Majority Worshipful Master, speak in support for or against actions the lodge is considering.

Purpose: To provide for a Per Capita Tax 03) Officer Seats Filled Stated Communications. As neither Entered Apprentices nor Resolved, that the annual per capita tax upon each member of record of a Chartered Fellowcrafts are considered full members of the lodge, they shall not sit in for an elected Lodge on December 31, 2021, be and here is established at the sum of Forty-seven officer of the lodge nor the Tiler of the lodge. They may. At the discretion of the Wor- shipful Master, sit in for the Deacons or Stewards provided they have received the proper dollars and no cents ($47.00) for the year 2022. mouth-to-ear instruction to perform the required tasks.

Resolution Number 3-2021 04) Service on Committees. As neither Entered Apprentices nor Fellowcrafts are considered full members of the lodge, they shall not sit on a nomination committee, degree Submitted By: Executive Committee committee, master’s committee or other similar committee. They may, at the discretion Vote required for Adoption: Majority of the Worshipful Master, serve the pleasure of the lodge on a social activity, philanthropic, or other similar committee. Serving the Pleasure of the lodge to be understood as assisting Purpose: Designate the place of holding Annual Communication in June 2023 the committee in carrying out the will of the Master by consent of the lodge. Resolved, that the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin for the year 2023 shall be held in the City of Madison, Wisconsin. (Continued on page 6)

WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 - PAGE 5 (Continued from page 5)

AC from page 3

Resolution Number 8-2021 Submitted By: Lake Country Freemasons Lodge #42 and Secretary of each lodge and must be will be held in the Madison Concourse from Sections Affected: 65.04 WMC completed and signed prior to arrival in 5:30 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, June 3. Madison. Cards will not be available at reg- Cocktails, Dinner & Entertainment. Dress Vote required for Adoption: Three-Fourths istration. is semi-formal for the ladies and,

To be excused from the Annual Commu- tuxedo/white coat or business suit for men. Purpose: To allow the Worshipful Master to conduct each Stated Meetings of his nication a lodge must email the Grand Mas- Breakfasts lodge in the degree he determines as appropriate for that meeting. ter through Grand Secretary Michael A. A breakfast will be served both days of Resolved, that Section 65.04, of the Wisconsin Masonic Code be amended as fol- DeWolf, PGM, at the Annual Communication from 6:30 to lows. [email protected]. 9 a.m. Breakfast will be held at the Madison Any lodge not represented at the Annual Concourse. Tickets for both breakfasts 65.04 A Stated Communication is on the Entered Apprentice Master Mason Communication shall be fined the sum of must be purchased in advance on Degree. At a stated communication a lodge must open and close on the Entered Ap- $30 unless excused by the Grand Lodge or Eventbrite. Print out and bring all meal tick- prentice Master Mason degree, on which degree all of the business of the lodge shall be the Grand Master. (Section 52.04, Regula- ets with you. transacted by members. it may call down to a lower degree for examination or work. tions for Lodges) Lunch “The Master, at his discretion, may open and close a Stated Communication in another Per Diem Lunch will be served on Friday at noon degree provided notice be given as far in advance as practicable. The Master, at his Per diem for attendance at the Annual at the Madison Concourse. Tickets for the discretion, may also close the Lodge of M.M. and open a Lodge of a lower degree for Communication of Grand Lodge will be lunch must be purchased in advance. Print the purpose of examination and/or degree work. The Lodge shall then be closed in due paid to the lodge. out and bring all meal tickets with you. Your form pursuant to the last degree.” If all the representative of a Lodge leave ladies are also welcome to attend the lunch. before the close of the Annual Communi- Installation Banquet

Resolution Number 9-2021 cation, without the consent of the Grand The Installation Banquet (cash bar) will be Submitted By: Jurisprudence Committee Lodge or the Grand Master, per diem shall held in the Madison Concourse, Friday not be paid. evening, June 4 following the Installation Sections Affected: Chapter 39.06 Wisconsin Masonic Benevolent Activities Board Per diem funds will be sent via ACH pay- of Officers in the Wisconsin Masonic Cen- Vote required for Adoption: Three-Fourths Vote ment directly to the Lodges bank account. ter Auditorium at 5:30 p.m. All represen- following the Annual Communication. tatives and their ladies are cordially invited Purpose: To amend the scope of duties of WMBAB so as not to violate State or Fed- Parking to attend. Banquet reservations will be eral law as to interference with the independence of judgement of the Boards of Direc- Parking is not available at the Wisconsin made on a first come, first served basis and tors of Masonically Sponsored public charities created under s. 510(c)(3) of the Internal Masonic Center. It is recommended that limited to 150 attendees. Print out and Revenue Code, and to make clear that appointments to those Boards of Directors, you use the Dayton Street Parking Ramp bring all meal tickets with you. Dress for the where applicable, are made by recommendations from WMBAB to the Grand Master, behind the Madison Area Technical College representatives' banquet is business suit. who has final approval authority. and across from the Concourse Hotel, one There will be hospitality at the Concourse Current: 39.96 Functions of Board. The Board shall: block south and west of the Madison Ma- Hotel, Suite 638 following the dinner from sonic Center. 9 p.m. until midnight. 39.06 Functions of Board. The Board shall: Aprons Hotel or Motel Reservations 1. Establish Wisconsin Masonic benevolent goals for approval at the Annual All members are required to bring and Masters and/or their proxies coming to Communication of Grand Lodge. wear their aprons during the Annual Com- the Annual Communication are reminded 2. Provide a report of its activities and future plans at the Annual munication. Aprons & face masks will not to make their own hotel or motel reserva- Communication of Grand Lodge. be provided. tions as may be required during their stay 3. Elect Directors of the Wisconsin Masonic Home, Inc., Wisconsin Board of Registration in Madison. These reservations should be All Brethren will have their dues cards made as soon as possible. A limited number Masonic Service and Assistance, Wisconsin Masonic Foundation, and any scanned and be issued a card to show the of rooms have been reserved at the Madi- future constituent Masonic benevolence, in accordance with the respective Tiler prior to admission to the meeting. Flu- son Concourse. Articles of Incorporation, by-laws or other governing documents of such orescent colored cards will be issued to vot- Ladies accompanying the representatives organizations. ing members. Registration will take place may attend breakfast with the Brethren 4. Establish and present for approval by Grand Lodge an annual budget for in Conference Room 1 at The Concourse from 6:30-9:00 a.m. on Fri, June 4 and Board activities. from 10 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Thursday on Saturday, June 5. 5. Approve budgets and master plans of each constituent benevolence. June 3 and at the Wisconsin Masonic Cen- Tickets 6. Establish and update, as necessary, policies and procedures for operation of ter in the lower classroom on Friday, June You must purchase tickets in advance for the Board. 4, beginning at 6:30 a.m. Per diem is paid all meals and the ladies’ luncheon. See AC according to the attendance register. Meal Tickets on page one. 7. Review investment performance of each benevolence, annually, and Voting Special Needs share performance results with all constituent benevolences. Each voting member will be given a fluo- Anyone requiring assistance due to phys- 8. Establish policy guidelines for all benevolent fund development activities. rescent-colored voting card. This card will ical problems, contact a member of the An- 9. Coordinate fund raising for all benevolent activities. be held up to vote. Without the card, you nual Communication Committee and 10. Oversee activities of each benevolence by performing an annual review of cannot vote. arrangements will be made. If a special diet the programs of each benevolence, including compliance with its Grand Celebration of Freemasonry is necessary, inform the Grand Lodge office charter/mission, review of financial statements and consideration of The Celebration of Freemasonry Dinner so arrangements can be made in advance. appropriateness of responses or corrective action taken as a result of audit comments, complaints, lawsuits or deficiency citations which may substantially adversely affect the operations of the charity or substantially Masonic and publicly reflect adversely on the Fraternity. 11. Approve land acquisition, building construction, other capital expenditures Square Bears in excess of $50,000 by any benevolence. 12. Prevent redundancies of benevolent programs unless regional in Provide an extra fuzzy passen- character. ger in patrol cars or other emer- 13. Approve establishment of any new Wisconsin Masonic benevolent activity. gency vehicles with a donation by your lodge of Square Bears. Resolved, Section 39.06 Functions of Board the shall be amended to read: The goal is to provide comfort 39.06 Functions of the Board. The Board shall: to children suffering from a traumatic event. Police meet 1. Establish Wisconsin Masonic benevolent goals for approval at the Annual children daily who are coping Communication of Grand Lodge. from a recent car accident or 2. Provide a report of its coordination activities and related plans at the Annual the arrest of a loved one. A gift Communication of Grand Lodge. of a stuffed animal can provide 3. Recommend to the Grand Master the appointment of Directors of the Wisconsin them with a level of comfort. Masonic Home, Inc., Wisconsin Board of Masonic Service and Assistance, Wisconsin Visit the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin Square Store at Masonic Foundation, and any future constituent Masonic benevolence, in accordance www.wisc-freemasonry.org. with the respective Articles of Incorporation, by-laws or other governing documents of such organizations. 4. Establish and present for approval by Grand Lodge an annual budget for Board activities.

5. Review budgets and master plans of each constituent benevolence, and make com- Advertise your Fundraiser in the ments upon, which reports will be provided to the Grand Master. 6. Establish and update, as necessary, policies and procedures for the operation of Wisconsin Masonic Journal the Board. The Number 1 Source for Reaching the Masons of Wisconsin 7. Review investment performance of each benevolence, annually, and share performance results with all constituent benevolences and the Grand Master. 8. Establish policy guidelines for all coordinating benevolent fund development activi- We have a new special rate for ties.

9. Coordinate fund raising for all benevolent activities without directing such activity. promoting your upcoming lodge events! 10. Review but not control the activities of each benevolence by performing an annual review of the programs of each benevolence, including reasonable compliance with its Contact Diane Igl charter/mission. Examine financial statements for elements of fraud, waste or abuse, and otherwise assess the appropriateness of responses or corrective action taken as a result of audit comments, complaints, lawsuits or deficiency citations which may For our new special rate for lodge substantially adversely affect the operations of the charity or substantially and publicly reflect adversely on the Fraternity. events! 11. Approve land acquisition, building construction, other capital expenditures in excess of $50,000 by any benevolence. 262-965-3979 12. Prevent redundancies of benevolent programs unless regional in character. email: [email protected] 13. Recommend the establishment of any new Wisconsin Masonic benevolent activity to the Grand Master.

PAGE 6 - WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 Getting to know your Grand EXPANDING OUR MASONIC KNOWLEDGE Lodge Officer on the Level By Grand Orator Jerry A. Reick The Three Great and Three Lesser Lights Grand Treasurer Jeffrey L. Bryden Greetings Brethren.

One of the symbolic actions of being passed to the degree of Fellowcraft is an ascent of the winding stairs to the Middle Cham- ber. One of my favorite lectures is the second section lecture of the Fellow- craft degree, sometimes referred to as the Middle Chamber Lecture. This month I’m providing a short talk bulletin from Grand Orator 1932. I find it amazing how something written Jerry A. Reick almost 90 years ago still rings true demon strating that our craft has advanced, but is still rooted in its history. Bro. Jeff Bryden (center) coming over the high hurdles in the lead in 1974. Enjoy! By Bro. Dave Ritchie his energies to study rather than Jeff works with a number of non- THE WINDING STAIRS Bro. Jeff Bryden is the current athletics so poured himself into his profits, but it was his first job out Grand Treasurer for the Grand studies. He would earn a full ride of school that introduced him to SHORT TALK BULLETIN - January, 1932 No.1 by: an unknown author Lodge of Wisconsin. Born and academic scholarship which al- Masonry. While working at M&I raised in Ripon, Wisconsin, he lowed him to earn his degrees in Management, one of Jeff’s ac- “And they went up the winding stairs into the middle chamber.” (I was a Ripon Tiger. Sports were both Finance and Economics from counts was the Grand Lodge of Kings 6:8) the important thing. Jeff earned Ball State. Wisconsin’s investments. Jeff’s Freemasonry’s Middle Chamber is wholly symbolic. Solomon the eight varsity letters in Football, Jeff would work in financial/in- dad and older brother were Ma- Wise would not have permitted any practice do uneconomic as sending basketball and track. Jeff proudly vestment management for 42 sons back home in Ripon so when multiplied thousands of workmen up a flight of stairs to a small Middle points out that the Tigers went years. Starting with M&I manage- Carl Garney and Carl Skog asked Chamber, to receive corn, wine and oil which had to be brought up in 11-0 his senior year in football. ment. He would start his own him if he had ever considered join- advance, only to be carried down in small lots by each workman as he Jeff also took part in the musicals business and run that for many ing the fraternity, he signed a pe- received his wages. and maintained his studies. years selling it two years ago. He tition. Carl Garney and Carl Skog There actually was a winding stair in Solomon’s Temple, but of the At age 13 Jeff, like his three now works for RMB Capital Man- were his first and second line sign- three, five and seven steps the scriptures are silent. Only in this country brothers, began working at their agement heading one of their di- ers. Jeff chose to join the lodge have the Winding Stairs but fifteen steps. In older days the stairs had father’s plumbing and excavation visions. in Ripon, Prairie View No. 95, but five, sometimes seven steps. Preston had thirty-six steps in his Wind- business during the summers. The Jeff has always enjoyed both where he received his degrees. ing Stairs; in series of one, three, five, seven, nine and eleven. The first assignment he was sent out the outdoors and competition. He Jeff fondly remembers the broth- English system later eliminated the number eleven from Preston’s thirty- on to assist was a blocked sewer enjoys being on or near the water. ers’ reaction when Grand Lodge six, making but twenty-five in all. The Stairs as a whole are a represen- pipe. It was at this point he knew Remembering times sailing, ski- “bigwigs” showed up for his Mas- tation of life; not the physical life of eating, drinking, sleeping and that plumbing was not for him. ing, and fishing on Green Lake ter Mason degree (many taking an working, but the mental and spiritual life, of both the lodge and the However instead of assisting on were his family had a cabin. Jeff active part in the degree). Jeff is a world without; of learning, studying, enlarging mental horizons and in- calls he began helping around the is an avid golfer. Jeff’s love of golf plural member of Freemasons creasing the spiritual outlook. office. He soon found himself isn’t just in playing or competing. Lodge No. 363 where he is a Past The first three steps represent the three principal officers of a lodge, working with the daily operations He served as director and Trustee Master. Jeff was asked by incom- and - though not stated in the ritual - must always refer to Deity, of of the shop. Thus began his love for the Western Golf Associa- ing Grand Master Frank Struble to which “three,” the triangle, is the most ancient symbol. They assure of business and finance. tion/Evans Scholarship Founda- consider serving as Grand Treas- the Fellowcraft just starting his ascent that he does not climb alone. The Jeff excelled in High School tion. The foundation provides full urer. This is a position he has held Worshipful Master, Senior and Junior Wardens are themselves symbolic Track as a sprinter, hurdler, and ride, room and board as well as tu- ever since. Jeff is also an Active of the lodge, and thus (as a lodge is a symbol of the world) of the Ma- jumper. He would earn a full ride ition to qualified caddies. There 33º Mason in the Northern Juris- sonic World - the Fraternity. The Fellowcraft is surrounded by the Craft. athletic track scholarship to Ball are currently over 1000 of these diction of the Scottish Rite which The brethren are present to help him climb. In his search for truth, in State University in Muncie, Indi- scholarships at 17 universities. is something he enjoys greatly. quest of his wages in the Middle Chamber, the Fellowcraft receives the ana. After the first year he discov- The foundation raises 25 million At home in Pewaukee Jeff en- support and assistance of all in the Mystic Circle; surely an impressive ered that he would rather devote each year to fund the scholarship. joys cooking. He and his lovely symbol. Five is peculiarly the number of the Fellowcraft’s degree; it rep- wife Susan raised two children. resents the central of the three groups which form the stairs; it refers to When it is too cold to golf up the five orders of architecture; five are required to hold a Fellowcraft’s here, they escape to Naples, lodge; there are five human senses; geometry is the fifth science, and The Capitular Degrees of Florida to enjoy the weather and so on. In the first degree the Blazing Star is Five Pointed and in the the golfing. He credits Susan with Sublime Degree are the Five Points of Fellowship. York Rite Masonry his being able to spend as much In the Winding Stairs the number five represents the five orders of time as he does with nonprofits architecture. Here the neophyte is taught of architecture as a science; As Freemasons, we are always searching for answers to the hidden and Masonry. Jeff quoted famous its beginnings are laid before him; he is shown how the Greeks com- mysteries of our Craft. From our first admission into a Lodge of golfer Gary Player in saying “The menced and Romans added to the kinds of architecture; he learns of Entered Apprentices we learn that there is harder I work the luckier I get”. the “beautiful, perfect and complete whole” which is a well-designed, much to understand and appreciate along our well-constructed building. Temples are built stone by stone, a little at a time. Each stone must be hewn from the solid rock of the quarry. Then Masonic journey. This is true with every degree; it is most certainly true with each of the it must be laid out and chipped with the gavel until it becomes a Perfect first four degrees of York Rite Masonry that Ashlar. Finally it must be set in place with the tempered mortar which comprise Capitular or Royal Arch Chapter De- will bind. But before any stone may be placed, a plan must come into grees. 177th Annual existence; the architect must play his part. So must the Fellowcraft, studying the orders of architecture by which he will erect his spiritual Each of the four Capitular degrees holds its own Temple, design his structure before he commences to build. set of important lessons. They are especially meaningful insomuch Communication There are “five” orders of architecture; not one. as they complete lessons from the first three degrees, especially There are many plans on which a man may build his life, not the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. First is the Mark Master one only. Freemasonry does not attempt to distinguish as between Degree, followed by the Past Master Degree and the Most Excellent Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian as to beauty or desirability. She does sug- Master Degree. Combined, these degrees prepare a candidate to of the gest that the Tuscan, plainer than the Doric, and the Composite, more receive the Royal Arch Degree. These four Capitular Degrees also ornamental though not more beautiful than the Corinthian, are less rev- serve as a prerequisite to degrees and orders of Council and Com- erenced than the ancient and original orders. Freemasonry makes no mandery, respectively. Grand Lodge attempt to influence the Fellowcraft as to which order of life building he shall choose. He may elect the physical, the mental, the spiritual. Or In Wisconsin, the Capitular Degrees are available to any Freemason he may choose the sacrificial - “plainer than Doric,” or the ornamental in good standing who has successfully completed the posting re- life, which is “not more beautiful than the Corinthian.” Freemasonry is quirement as a Master Mason. The petition process is quite simple. F. & A.M. concerned less with what order of spiritual architecture a Fellowcraft Perhaps you have a Royal Arch Chapter affiliated with your home chooses by which to build, than that he does choose one; that he build Lodge. Otherwise, there is likely an active Chapter not too far dis- not aimlessly. Architecture is the most expressive of all the arts. Paint- tant. The Companions will gladly assist. In non-pandemic times, of Wis. ing and sculpture, noble though they are, lack the utility of architecture, degree work is completed regularly; you won’t have to wait long and strive to interpret nature rather than to originate. Architecture is to get started on a new and meaningful path. not hampered by the necessity of reproducing something already in existence. It may raise its spires untrammeled by any natural model; it If you’re already a Companion Royal Arch Mason, maybe it has June 4-5, may fling its arches gloriously across a nave and a transept with no simil- been some time since you have visited a Chapter. The door is itude in nature to hamper by suggestion. The architect may - if his ge- open for you to join us. Together we’ll dust off those skills of a nius be great enough - tell in his structure truths which may not be put Royal Arch Mason and recall lessons learned. When you’re ready, 2021 into words, inspire by glories not sung in the divinest harmonies. So we’ll welcome your help with a degree team, if you wish. may the builder of his own House Not Made With Hands, if he chooses aright his plan of life and hews to the line of his plan. So, indeed, have Please contact me if I can be of assistance, no matter where you done all those great men who have led the world; the Prophets of old, are in your Masonic journey. Send me a message at keith- Pythagoras, Confucius, Buddha, Shakespeare, Milton, Goethe, Wash- [email protected]. It will be my pleasure to connect you with ington, Lincoln -. a local Chapter of Royal Arch Masons. Who can tell where the path may lead? See Stairs on page 14

Keith Wohlfert Grand Royal Arch Captain Feedback and questions are always welcome. Contact Grand Orator Jerry A. Reick at Royal Arch Masons for the State of Wisconsin [email protected]

WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 - PAGE 7 Island City Lodge Donates to Lakeland Pantry

Island City Lodge No. 330, Minocqua, in association with the Wisconsin Masonic Foundation, presented a check for $1000 to the Lakeland Pantry in Woodruff. The Lakeland Pantry's mission is to provide individuals and families with a dependable source of supplemental food, household, and hygiene products plus offer programs designed to improve quality of life for those in need in the Arbor Vitae, Hazelhurst, Lac du Flambeau, Lake Tomahawk, Minocqua, and Woodruff area. The pantry receives no government funding or subsidies and re- lies solely on donations. Submitted by Bro. Dave Imlah

All new website Timothy Behling, in memory of Harvey C. Behling; Jason Presenting the check to Lakeland Pantry Director Lorna www.wimasoniccharities.com Springate is Leonard Pederson, Past Master of Island City Berggren; Ken & Jan Gorgen; Robert Manders; and John Miller. Lodge. Years of Service Award Support Your Wisconsin Masonic Charities Presentations Memorials and Contributions Due to space limitations and the Dear Brethren, Ladies, and Friends number of “years of service It’s heartwarming to start to see families and residents reunite in awards” presented by the lodges, Gift Report March 2021 the Wisconsin Masonic Journal is ways other than just screens or windows. I’m excited with what is Wisconsin Masonic Foundation hopefully warmer days ahead, because we can take advantage of only able to publish photos of 50 the outdoors and all our campus has to offer safely for families and year and over members. General Fund: residents. Exceptions can be made due to Benevity Community Impact Fund, Paypal Giving Fund illness and special situations. Acts of Kindness: It’s been an exciting few weeks for Three Pillars with our renovation Cassia Lodge, Hurley Lodge, Janesville-Western Star Lodge, and expansion construction work. Visit Menomonie Lodge, Waukesha Lodge, West Allis Lodge We officially kicked off our project with a successful groundbreaking www.wimasoniccharities.com Humphrey Smith Fund: on April 8, and we’ve seen real progress so far. Russell Schaetzke, Richard Mitchell In honor of Duane and Kay Bunting If you didn’t know, we have a project page up on our website, Duane Bunting where you can view renderings and read about the work that’s hap- Pillars Appeal: pening. Jerome Nelson Matching Scholarships: Go to www.threepillars.org and click the Coming Summer 2022 Acacia Itasca Lodge, Ancient Landmark Lodge, Argyle Lodge, tab at the top. Camp Douglas Lodge, Chetek Lodge, Clear Lake Lodge, Columbus We are even more excited to open our first renovated Health Care Lodge, Des Peres Lodge, Fond du Lac, Hiram Lodge, Hurley Lodge, Center neighborhood this Summer! Janesville- Western Star Lodge, Linden Lodge, Manawa Lodge, Marinette Lodge, MasonWoods Lodge, Medford Lodge, Mystic Tie If you have any questions please let me know. Lodge, New Richmond Lodge, N.E.W. Daylite Lodge, Omro Lodge, Phillips Lodge, Rock River Lodge, Social Lodge, Union Grove Sending warm Mother’s Day wishes to all. Lodge, Warren Lodge, Waukesha Lodge, Waupaca Lodge, Win- Fraternally, neconne Lodge Youth Fund: In Memory of Polly Wymer Charles White

Mark Strautman, President & CEO Wisconsin Masonic Home General Fund: Richard Hansen

- Fill Out, Clip and Mail Today

Wisconsin Masonic Charities 2020/2021 Grand Master’s Appeal Enclosed is my donation for:

[ ] Grand Master’s Appeal Every Child Deserves a Place at the Table [ ] Wisconsin Masonic Foundation [ ] Wisconsin Masonic Service & Assistance Fund [ ] Wisconsin Masonic Youth Fund [ ] Other Our fingerprints don’t fade from the lives we touch—Judy Blume

______My Brothers . . . [ ] Designated for______All year you have met the challenge of helping to feed the hungry. You have answered my plea expe- [ ] In honor of: ______ditiously and with humility. I thank all of you for your generosity. The initial goal of giving $40,000 for feeding the hungry was met back in November last year when the amount donated reached $41,000. [ ] In memory of: ______We are now at $61,000. You are truly Masons! Amount ______Date______I am still asking you to continue with your generosity. We still have time before the books close. If you Please acknowledge to: Name ______have not yet sent in a donation, please do. If you have made a donation and can donate a little more, that would be fantastic. Take a minute to think about the blessings the Great Architect has bestowed Address ______on us and see if you can bolster this worthwhile charity with a little extra generosity.

City______State______Zip______Forest Witcraft, a teacher and scholar said, “A hundred years from now it will not matter what your Make your check payable to the benevolence you have bank account was, the sort of house you lived in, or the kind of clothes you wore, but the world may selected above and mail to: Wisconsin Masonic Charities be much different because you were important in the life of a child.” 36275 Sunset Drive, Dousman, WI 53118 Phone 262-965-2200 • email: [email protected] As we celebrate Spring and the return of life to our area, let’s do our best in this celebration to leave our fingerprints on a child’s life. The Wisconsin Masonic Foundation is organized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Grand Lodge of Wisconsin is organized Fraternally, under Section 501(c)(10) of the Internal Revenue Code. You should consult Brother Ken your tax adviser to determine whether your contribution qualifies to receive a tax-deduction under the Internal Revenue Code.

PAGE 8 - WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 Three Pillars Expansion and Renovation

Coming Summer 2022

For more information on our project, please head to www.threepillars.org.

WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 - PAGE 9 Grand Lodge Officers 2020-2021

Grand Lodge Officers serving the Masons of Wisconsin for Lecturer Patrick D. Cholka, Grand Chaplain David O. Leis- Schultz, DDGM6 James R. Giese, DDGM7 Mathew H. 2020-2021. Front row from left: Junior Grand Warden tra, Grand Tiler Thomas A. Schlicht, Grand Marshal Ivens, DDGM8 Daniel C. Brylla, DDGM9 Derek M. Henze, David R. Ritchie, Deputy Grand Master Gary L. Stang, Michael A. Gorgen, Grand Orator Jerry A. Reick, Junior DDGM10 Charles L. Smith, DDGM11 Christopher M. Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen, Senior Grand Warden Grand Deacon Jeffrey S. Schoenfeldt and Senior Grand Luedke and DDGM 12 Jeffrey S. Thiele. Paul T. Tourville and Grand Secretary Michael A. DeWolf, Deacon Thomas W. Stevens. Back row: DDGM1 Dennis PGM. Second row: Senior Grand Steward Craig J. M. Schultz, DDGM2 Earl Gunderson, DDGM3 Jacob Photo by Michelle Allan Froelich, Junior Grand Steward Dennis J. Krahn, Grand Seever, DDGM4 Christian M. Hirthe, DDGM5 Jacob R.

PAGE 10 - WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 Three Pillars’ Outreach Program Three Pillars’ Outreach Program can help you succeed with many of life’s challenges.

National Eating Disorder Hotline

Eating disorders affect people of all ages and genders. NEDA is a leading nonprofit organization supporting individuals and families affected by eating disorders. They can provide evaluation tools, resources, and support for those in need and their families.

If you’re interested in learning more about the National Eating Disorder Hotline, or need guidance regarding other resources, please call Lauri at 888.546.8885 or email [email protected].

WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 - PAGE 11

Valley of Madison

Upcoming Scottish Rite Events

Virtual Valley Meeting: May 26, 2021 Details for accessing to be provided via email to all members These virtual meetings have been working well. Its an easy way to

stay in touch and keep current. We are close to returning to normal.

Northern Masonic Jurisdiction

Lodge of Perfection the Madison Scottish Rite and honor them. We invite ous Lodges and appendant bodies. I think we got some the families of the Brothers to attend as well. While we of our Scottish Rite costumes from the same retailer (and One of the realities we all came to face (in varying were also unable to perform this last year, it does not at the same time). degrees) during the pandemic was our reliance on the mean that those Brothers have been forgotten. They will Like many things, the article demonstrates that “routine” or the “norm”. Suddenly in March 2020; things have their proper memorials in due course. some things have changed but even more has remained didn’t work the way they used to. Suddenly we had to The Feast of the Paschal Lamb is a powerful cere- the same. There is a section on how the fraternity’s broth- find alternatives. We were no longer free to work, to be mony and one in which all those involved take great erhood is expanding, gaining over a million members a schooled, to worship, to meet or even to move around pride in putting on with all of its solemnities. It honors year and a section about Blue Lodge being the core of outside of our home in some instances. There were a lot our fallen Brothers by exploring the relationship between the Craft. Either way, reading the article gave me a re- of sacrifices made at every level of severity. Unless you Passover and the Last Supper and includes a reading of newed appreciation for all the Brothers who went before experienced living through World War II; this was all new the rolls and a flower ceremony for the deceased. It is a me and worked so hard to lay the foundation that we now plus there was the threat of getting sick or infecting very symbolic and reflective gathering that reminds us stand on. someone else. all that as Brothers we are loved, that we are mortal, and In the absence of another Feast of the Paschal Fortunately, we had those who answered the call that we will not be forgotten. As such, its symbolism is Lamb this year, I ask that you too please take a moment to serve. We continue to thank the health care workers, dark but during the Easter Service the light is reignited to reflect upon our lost Brothers and their work, the fruits first responders, food processors, transporters of our and hope is restored. of which endure today. And I hope to see many of you goods, retail workers, and on and on. We thank the The symbolism is so strong that when LIFE Maga- at next year’s feast. agencies and individuals who provided food, clothing, zine did an expose on freemasonry for their October 8, counseling and other relief to those who were and still 1956 issue, the lead photograph for the article was a pic- Bryan Sullivan are in dire need. ture of the Feast of the Paschal Lamb being done by Most Wise Master I would ask you to remember our Scottish Rite core Brooklyn’s Aurora Grata Chapter of the Rose Croix. The value of Service to Humanity and the tenants of our fra- thirteen-page article is titled: “Busy Brotherly World of ternity of Brotherly Love and Relief. You should continue Freemasonry.” If you are able to get access to a copy, I to fund and to serve agencies and individuals as you are highly recommend it. There are great photos from vari- able. Give of your time and talent in volunteer service doing so safely and intelligently. Continue to reach out to friends and family to see what they may need or how you can help. To quote Brother Winston Churchill; “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give”. 12th Annual 5K Walk for Dyslexia-Madison As your Valley successfully continues its operation behind the scenes and virtually as required; I urge you to support the new Officer lines which will be elected on May 15, 2021 May 26. Come back to your Valley as soon as it is safe to resume our in-person meetings. Volunteer for a part Check-in/Registration 7:30 am in our outstanding Degree presentations. Contact our Degree Manager Matt Ivens and say yes to a role in a Start 8:30 am Degree. We look forward to an outstanding fall reunion in October. Since this is my last message as your Thrice Potent Master; I wanted to take the opportunity to thank my In person or virtual! Brother Officers and the Valley of Madison membership Brittingham Park Shelter for your support and confidence. It has been a difficult year; the Valley is strong and healthy and soon will be in the very capable hands of the continuing and new Officer WalkforDyslexiaMadison.org teams. It has been an honor and a pleasure to serve my Valley of Madison.

FACTS Lyle G. Christian How to Participate Thrice Potent Master 17% of the population * Register at walkfordyslexiamadison.org struggles with dyslexia, * Walk or Run - $25 each says National Institutes Rose Croix * Create team - $20 each of Health.

I was fortunate enough to celebrate last month’s * Pledge towards a student or Matt Ivens Easter holiday with a subset of my extended family. Dyslexia is a language- to run a 50K! While not as large of a gathering as in years past, the based learning disability

Covid vaccine allowed many of us to gather in a manner that includes poor word in which we hadn’t been able to in over a year. As many * Volunteer - email Craig Froelich reading, word decoding, of you have similarly done, you can likely relate to how [email protected] uplifting and jovial these reconvening of traditions can oral reading fluency, be. and spelling Besides the absence of a few family members, More info: 608-252-4922 or email there was still another absence I felt during this holiday [email protected] weekend: The Feast of the Paschal Lamb and the Easter Service, which the Rose Croix chapter partners with the Robert McCoy Commandery. In the ceremony, Rose Croix officers recognize the departed members of If you are interested in joining Scottish Rite, or require additional information, please contact the Valley of Madison Secretary at 608-256-2351 or via email at [email protected]

Valley of Madison AASR-NMJ Officer Nominations for 2021/2022 The Valley of Madison AASR-NMJ is pleased to announce its nominations for Officers for 2021/2022. The Valley will hold its election at the ‘Zoom Virtual Monthly Meeting’ on May 19, 2021. Chapter of Rose Croix: Princes of Jerusalem: Lodge of Perfection: Most Wise Master: Sean Garde Sovereign Prince: Eric Brooks Thrice Potent Master: Jeff Lichtfuss Sr. Warden: Christopher Boehm High Priest: Paul Larson Deputy Master: Robert Dolan Jr. Warden: Clinton Cagle Sr. Warden: Ryan Ramnarace Sr. Warden: Dennis Krahn Jr. Warden: Marc Steiber Valley Treasurer: Mathew Hughey Trustee: Scott Graham Valley Secretary: Michael Roddy Respectfully submitted by the officers of the Valley of Madison Scottish Rite election committee.

Michael Roddy Valley Secretary

PAGE 12 - WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 National Sojourners now Part of the Waukesha Cityscape

By PGM Robert C. Strader happy to oblige the President–Milwaukee Chapter #27, NSI lodge. What we’ve Waukesha Lodge No. 37 in since heard is that it Waukesha, Wisconsin is a typical is not often that NSI Masonic lodge that has always chapters meet in or been a hub for activities for other have the NSI logo ap- parts of the Masonic family like pear on Masonic Eastern Star and various York Rite buildings. bodies. Signage on Masonic build- More interesting ings often reflect those other Ma- yet is that we share sonic bodies that meet the building and sign there. Those Masonic bodies with another Masonic move over time, maybe due to re- organization that has location or consolidation. Signs not appeared in Wis- also get old and must be replaced, consin in decades, and so organizations noted on the Groto. The new those signs are also updated. Artaban Grotto also Although many National So- decided to call journer chapters meet in non-Ma- Waukesha Lodge its sonic locations, Milwaukee home. Chapter #27, NSI, decided to cel- We are all proud, ebrate its heritage and relocated along with Waukesha to Waukesha Lodge a couple of Lodge, on the final years ago. When asked whether product of the new Advertise in the we wanted to help co-sponsor a sign, with its throwback design to Lodge No. 37 of Free and Ac- new sign on the building, we were the old signage of the lodge. cepted Masons, we are honored Leadership of the bodies meeting to have Milwaukee Chapter #27 Wisconsin Masonic Journal in the building meet virtually every of the National Sojourners call our Visit the month to discuss the building and building home. With several of our The Number 1 Source for Reaching the Masons of Wisconsin other opportunities for collabora- Lodge members former service- We have a special rate for Wisconsin tion. Truly a Masonic partnership! men themselves, we feel a close We at Milwaukee Chapter #27 bond with the National Sojourn- promoting your upcoming lodge events! Square are proud to show our presence in ers. Store the community. Together, we look forward to Master of Waukesha Lodge building an enriching experience Contact Diane Igl www.wisc-freemasonry.org Gary Eert says, “On behalf of the that is sure to benefit both organ- 135 members of Waukesha izations for years to come." Phone 262-965-3979 email: [email protected]

BUSINESS CARD ADVERTISING Support the businesses that support your Wisconsin Masonic Journal!

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WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 - PAGE 13 Groundbreaking Ceremony at Three Pillars

The official groundbreaking for the modernizing and expansion of the Three Pillars Campus in Dousman took place on April 8. See story on page 1.

Shovels and hard hats ready for the groundbreaking.

Photos by Rich Rygh CEO Bro. Mark Strautman explains the long process that makes this day possible.

Land is cleared and ready for the construction to begin.

Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen gives a history on how Three See story on page 1 Pillars came to be, beginning with a donation of land by Bro. Willard Van Brundt.

seven sacrifices offered to attest physical sciences, they were barely opposed to those which are straight. Stairs from page 7 truth. The Sabbath is the seventh dreamed of in Preston’s day. So it The one virtue which most distin- day; Noah had seven day’s notice of is not actually but symbolically that guishes man is courage. It requires the flood; God created the heaven we are to climb the seven steps. As more courage to face the unknown If the Fellowcraft, climbing his are necessary to perceive the rela- and earth in six days and rested on a Masonic author put it: than the known. A straight stair, a three, five and seven steps to the tion between thing and thing, and the seventh day; the walls of Jericho “William Preston, who put so ladder, hides neither secret nor mys- Middle Chamber of unknown pro- life and life. That factor is the per- were encompassed seven times by practical an interpretation upon tery at its top. But the stairs which portions, containing an unknown ception, the mind, the soul or spirit, seven priests bearing seven rams’ these steps, lived in an age when wind hide each step from the Wage, is overweighed with the em- if you will, which differentiates man horns; the Temple was seven years these did, indeed, represent all climber; what is just around the cor- phasis put upon the spiritual side of from all other living beings. in building, the seven branched can- knowledge. But we must not refuse ner is unknown. The Winding life, he may here be comforted. The Fellowcraft’s five steps glorify dlestick burned in the Tabernacle to grow because the ritual has not Stairs of life lead us to we know not Freemasonry is not an ascetic or- the five senses of human nature be- and so on through a thousand ref- grown with modern discovery. what; for some of us, a Middle ganization. It recognizes that the cause Freemasonry is a well- erences. It is only necessary to refer When we rise by Grammar and Chamber of fame and fortune, for physical is as much a part of normal rounded scheme of living which to the seven required to open an En- Rhetoric, we must consider that others, of pain and frustration. The life as the mental and spiritual upon recognizes the physical as well as tered Apprentice lodge, the seven they mean not only language, but all Angle of Death may stand with which so much emphasis is put. the mental life of men, and knows original officers of a lodge (some methods of communication. The drawn sword on the very next step The Fellowcraft’s degree is a glo- that only through the physical do we now have nine or ten, or even step of Logic means a knowledge for any of us. Yet, man climbs! rification of education, the gaining perceive the spiritual. It is in this more) and the seven steps which not only of a method of reasoning Man has always climbed; he of knowledge, the study of the sense, not as a simple lesson in complete the Winding Stairs to which logicians have accomplished. climbed from a cave man savagery Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences and physiology, that we are to receive show that seven is an important When we ascend by Arithmetic and to the dawn of civilization. Leapt up all that they connote. Therefore it the teachings of the five steps by number in the Fraternity. Geometry we must visualize all sci- with one hoarse yell and snapped its is wholly logical that the degree which we rise above the ground The seventeenth century concep- ence; since science is but measure- hands, Groped for its right with should make special references to floor of the Temple to that last flight tion of a liberal education was com- ment, in the true mathematical horny, callous hands, And stared the five means by which man has of seven steps which are typical of promised in the study of Grammar, sense, it requires no great stretch of around for God with bloodshot acquired all his knowledge; aye, by knowledge. Rhetoric and Logic; called the “tri- the imagination to read into these eyes. was a climbing from slavery which he will ever acquire any Most potent of numbers in the an- tium.” and Arithmetic, Geometry, two steps all that science may teach. to independence, from the brute to knowledge. cient religions, the number seven Music and Astronomy, called the The step denominated Music means the spiritual. Through ignorance, Take away his five senses and a has deep significance. The “quadrivium. William Preston en- not only sweet and harmonious darkness, misery, cruelty, wrong, man is no more a man; perhaps his Pythagoreans called it the perfect deavored to compress into his Mid- sounds, but all beauty, poetry, art, oppression, danger and despair; mind is no more a mind. With no number because it is made up of dle Chamber Lecture enough of nature and loveliness of whatever man has climbed his own Winding contact whatever with the material three and four, the two perfect fig- these to make at least an outline kind. Not to be familiar with the Stairs through much the same expe- world he can learn nothing of it. As ures, triangle and square. It was the available to men who might other- beauty which nature provides is to rience as that of the race. Aye, man man reaches up through the mate- virgin number because it cannot by wise know nothing of them. In our be, by so much, less a man; to stunt, climbs because he has courage; be- rial to the spiritual, he can learn multiplication produce any numbers day and times grammar and rhetoric by so much, a striving soul. As for cause he has faith, because he is a nothing of the ethical side of life within ten, as can two and two, two are considered of importance, but in the seventh step of Astronomy, man. So must the Freemason without a means of contact with the and three, two and four, or three a secondary way; logic is more or surely it means not only a study of climb. The Winding Stairs do lead physical. If there are limits beyond and three. Nor can it be produced less swallowed up as study in the the solar system and the stars as it somewhere. There is a Middle which human investigations and ex- by the multiplication of any whole reasoning appropriate to any partic- did in William Preston’s day, but Chamber. There are wages of the plorations into the unknown may number. Our ancient ancestors ular subject; arithmetic, of course, also a study of all that is beyond the Fellowcraft to be earned. not go, it is because of the limita- knew seven planets. seven Pleiades, continues its primary importance, earth; of spirit and the world of So believing, so unafraid, climb- tions of the five senses. Not even seven Hyades, seven lights burned but from the standpoint of science, spirit, of ethics, philosophy, the ab- ing, the Fellowcraft may hope at the the extension of those senses by the before the Altar of Mithras, the geometry and its off-shoots are still stract - of Deity. Preston built better top of his Winding Stairs to reach a marvelously sensitive instruments of Goths had seven Deities; Sun, the vital sciences of measurement. than he knew; his seven steps are Middle Chamber, and see a new science may overcome, in the last Moon, Tuisco, Woden, Thor, Friga Music is no longer a necessary part both logical in arrangement and sug- sign in the East - - -. analysis, the limits of the five senses. and Seatur or Saturn, from which of a liberal education; it is now one gestive in their order. The true Fel- As always, I encourage your com- Except for one factor! Brute beasts we derive the names of the seven of the arts, not the sciences, and as- lowcraft will see in them a guide to ments and feedback. Please send hear, see, feel, smell and taste, as days of our week. In the Gothic tronomy is so interrelated with the making of a man rich in mind your inquiries, comments, and re- we do. But they garner no facts of mysteries the candidate met with physics that it is hard to say where and spirit, by which riches only can quests to [email protected] science, win no truths. formulate seven obstructions; the ancient Jews one leaves off and the other begins. the truest brotherhood be prac- Most S&F. no laws of nature through these swore by seven, because seven wit- As for electricity, chemistry, biology, ticed.” Finally, consider the implica- Bro. Jerry Reick senses. More than the five senses nesses were used to confirm, and civics, government and the various tion of the “winding” stairs as

PAGE 14 - WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 Shawano Lodge Easter Egg Hunt at Mason Park draws more than 600 people

Senior Warden Bill Ecke, of Shawano Lodge No. 170, had an idea for an Easter Egg people made their way through the lodge into Mason Park. Who could ever forget the Hunt at Mason Park. After several months of planning and many hours of work the lodge smiles and excitement on the young faces? This event will forever be remembered by all members helped his idea become a reality. On Sunday, March 28th with the help of of the workers and parents. Shawano Lodge would like to thank Bro. Bill for his idea and Shawano Area Masons, Green Bay Shrine Clowns Joe Urban and Jim Herman and the the area Masons for their work. We thank our many sponsors who contributed towards Mason’s ladies, the Masonic Center became the busiest place in Shawano. More than 600 the expenses that were incurred. Most of all, it was a fantastic start to Easter week. Submitted and photo by Bro. George Tincher

Meeting from page 2 Three Pillars from page 1 citement in the lodges as the pan- long-term strategic growth plan demic is diminishing a bit. We for our campus. The purpose of must remember what we learned this plan was to identify opportu- during the pandemic and not let nities for 2020 – 2030 and be- things that have proved beneficial yond. to the lodges go away. We must As a result of this work we iden- keep Brothers that were very ac- tified the following initiative prior- tive during this time engaged. ities: Grand Orator Jerry A. Reick 1. Modernize our skilled nursing and District 11 Deputy Grand facility, the Masonic Center for Master Christopher M. Luedke Health and Rehab (MCHR), and gave a report from the Education resize based on the evolving mar- Committee on the Masonic Col- Deputy Grand Master Gary L. ket needs. lege. See page 4 of this issue. Stang explains the impor- 2. Address incomplete care lev- Grand Lecturer Patrick D. tance in following the Wiscon- els between Compass Point and Cholka presented the report from sin Program. Health Care Center offerings with the Esoteric Committee. He stated the possible addition of a Commu- there are several Brothers working nity Based Residential Facility Main entry. on their ritualist and proficiency (CBRF) assisted living level. cards. Nine new ritualist and pro- 3. Address growing memory ficiency cards have been pre- care needs on our campus and sented this year. Many members, within the surrounding communi- especially new members, are ties. learning new parts. He feels ritual 4. Evaluate the use of the for- work in the state is showing im- mer Van Brunt property and addi- provement. tional property needs for future The Grand Master reported the growth. Executive Committee discussed 5. Establish a central Welcome transgendered issues and estab- Center concept to address way lishing policy for the future. The finding confusion on our growing Wisconsin Masonic Center in campus. Madison is receiving a new sign These are important strategic and the front of the building will District 11 Deputy Grand additions to our campus and the be “dressed-up”. There will not be Master Christopher M. surrounding community as we any resolutions regarding special Leudke gives the report from continue to provide unique set- assessments for the WMC at the the Education Committee. tings to support vibrant and inde- Annual Communication. A new pendent lives in the least CBRF Assisted Living lobby. event coordinator is being hired program in Districts 5 and 7 restrictive environment possible. for the Center and it is expected which includes a District Member- Modernizing RSL will continue serving our liver a welcoming customer expe- to be self sufficient in the future. ship Representative. The new The Masonic Center for Health residents in memory care—offer- rience for our residents and fami- Regarding the annual Communi- website will also play an important and Rehab ing 17 care suites in a Memory lies. cation, there will be no meals part in member recruitment and In March 2021 we began the Care neighborhood. Compass The expansion of Riverside served at the Wis. Masonic Center retention. It is a very profession- renovation of a majority of Point will continue to offer Lodge includes 52 new Assisted this year due to COVID restric- ally engineered and exciting pro- MCHR. Catered Assisted Living in an Living apartments and provides tions. All meals will be served at gram. It will be rolled out in detail Once this renovation is com- apartment setting. more options in our continuum. the Concourse Hotel. in the very near future. plete, our Health Care Center will In addition, we have acquired The updated Riverside Lodge Senior Grand Deacon Stevens The meeting ended Sunday provide 36 long-term care private the 190 acres of farmland north will meet the needs of residents gave a report on the Membership morning following a church serv- rooms with private bathrooms, in of our existing campus. In 2021 who need a higher level of care Committee. There is money in ice by Grand Chaplain David O. addition to our short-term rehab we will dedicate our efforts to than Compass Point provides, but this next year’s budget allocated Leistra. unit, Hickory Suites (HS). master site planning, including this are not ready for skilled nursing for membership. There is a pilot This resize from the current ca- new property and the former Van services, allowing even more resi- pacity of 70 rooms has enough Brunt site off Sunset Drive which dents the choice to stay within the space to incorporate more inti- is currently vacant. This planning Three Pillars family. mate dining and living spaces that is anticipated to include expanded We look forward to the help ensure we provide the very Memory Care, a Three Pillars wel- benefits this project has for our best safe, person-centered, and come center, campus storage, and current and future residents, our dignified care for years to come. new concepts in Independent Liv- staff, and the future of senior serv- By completing the renovation in ing. ices in Western Waukesha phases, we ensure that all resi- Anticipated project completion County. dents will remain at MCHR during for these phases will be summer If you have any questions, and after the project. of 2022. please let us know.

Expansion The Benefit Mark Strautman Riverside Lodge Memory Care To Our Continuum of Care President & CEO

At the same time, we will ex- The resizing of MCHR to 36 Three Pillars Senior Living Com- pand Riverside Lodge (RSL) with individual long-term care rooms, munities, 410 N. Main Street the addition of 52 new CBRF As- with private accessible bathrooms, Dousman, WI 53118 sisted Living units. Once this addi- provides current and future resi- 262.965.7255 tion is complete, our campus will dents with a more modern living [email protected] be home to 69 higher level as- environment. www.threepillars.org

Grand Chaplain David O. Leistra leads the Sunday morning sisted living units with occupancy The enhanced common spaces See groungbreaking on page 12 worship service. Photos by Rich Rygh for 75 individuals. and new neighborhoods will de-

WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 - PAGE 15 Beja Shriners Build New Home for Northeastern Wisconsin Masonic Organizations

By Rich Rygh Ground was broken April 9 at the the Beja Shrine Center in Green Bay as the beginning of the addition of a new lodge room. The Center will continue to be the home of Beja Shriners. It will also house Washington Lodge No. 21, Des Peres Lodge No. 85, Theodore Roosevelt Lodge No. 322 and Daylite Lodge No. 360. Scottish Rite Val- ley of Green Bay, Warren Chapter #8 RAM, Warren Council #13 R&SM, Palestine Commandery #20, Daughters of the Nile, White Shrine, Martha Washing- ton Chapter #124 OES, Bethel #32 International Order of Job’s Daughters, the Green Bay Chapter De- Molay and the Northeast Wisconsin Masonic Library and Museum will also share the building. “Shriners are happy to provide this new space for the other Masonic bodies in Northeast Wisconsin,” said Ben Rodgers, Potentate of Beja Shriners. “Having all Breaking ground from left: Past Potentate Mike Belanger, Potentate Ben Rodgers, Mark these men and women under one roof will be synergis- Rothe, President of the Northeast Wis. Masonic Center, Inc.; Bro. Tom Pinney Jr., President tic. We will all benefit by being together and sharing our of Northeast Masonic Library & Museum; Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen; Bro. Dan Rothe, activities.” Master of Des Peres Lodge No. 85; Bro. Jeff Andersen, Master of Washington Lodge No. 21; Potentate Rodgers extended his thanks and appreci- Bro. Nic Schuh, Master of Theodore Roosevelt Lodge No. 322, High Priest of Warren Chapter ation to the Building Committee led by Brothers Mike #8 and Commander of Palestine Commandery #20; and Bro. Lee Burlison, Commander-in- Bellanger, Jeff Anderson and Craig Laes, who have Chief of the Consistory Valley of Green Bay Scottish Rite; and Sam Winterfell, Keller Con- worked tirelessly for nearly 18 months to make this day struction. a reality. Completion is expected to be in late August or early September. Outfitting the building internally is being funded mainly by the four lodges, Scottish Rite, York Rite, the Northeast Wisconsin Masonic Library and Mu- seum. These organizations are making significant contributions to the building interior. “I welcome this fresh shuffling together of Masonry in Northeast Wisconsin. These lodges working together form a powerful beacon of light to our members every- where,” said Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen, “Ma- sonry exists to make good men better, and our lodges are the place where Masons are made – not just men, but Masons.”

Potentate Ben Rodgers switches to his “Construc- tion Fez” for the ground Noble Mike Moen photographs the festivities. breaking.

Crowd gathered for the ceremony.

Bro. Tom Pinney Jr., Pres- Photos by Rich Rygh ident of the Northeast Wis- Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen intro- consin Library and duces the Grand Lodge Officers present Museum addresses the for the ocassion. group.

Support Our Brother’s Home Severely Damaged by Fire Youth Groups Jefferson County Lodge’s new- Menards, Kwik Trip, Walmart and est Entered Apprentice, Bro. other like stores. Kevin Ryan and his family were Check donations can be made victims of a major house fire on by making check out to Badger the evening of April 8. The fire Bank, Memo: Kevin Ryan and was likely started by a lightning mailing to Jefferson County strike. Lodge, 617 Masonic Blvd., Jeffer- The garage is a total loss and son, WI 53549 c/o Paul Larson. the family is unable to occupy the Gift cards can be mailed to same home pending repairs. They may address. In addition to cash or gift be displaced from their house up cards, the Lodge is accepting new to 10 months. or gently used athletic wear for the Bro. Kevin and his wife Tanya Ryan children. All new website have two children, Ava, 12 and Any inquiries on how to help Aiden, 15. An account for the the Ryan family can be made to family has been set up at Badger Bro. Paul Larson at Bro. Kevin Ryan and his family are displaced from their home www.wimasoniccharities.com Bank in Johnson Creek. Gift [email protected]. after the April 8 fire. cards are being accepted for Submitted by Bro. Noah Schultz Photo by Lorelei Schultz Attend and Support Your Lodge!

PAGE 16 - WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 Milton Good Friday Fish Fry Returns

Brothers, friends and the Milton community turned out to make this year’s Good Friday Fish Fry a success for Milton Lodge No. 161. Cancelled last year due to the COVID-19 restrictions, this year it returned as take-out only. The Dinner started at 11 a.m. and was sold out by 6 p.m. serving over 400 meals.

Bro. Jim Gajdosik bags the orders.

Brothers delivered orders out to the cars.

Photos by Rich Rygh Over 400 cod meals were served.

Master Brian 'Dewey' Duoss, Frank McNamer, Linda Huber (wife of Duane Huber), and Gary Huber Jr. as- semble the dinners. Brothers Gary Huber Sr., Francis 'Fritz' Prusansky, and longtime fish frying expert Duane 'Hillbilly' Huber prepare the fish.

Shriners believe in you. Camp Douglas When you become a Shriner you become part of a brotherhood of men committed to family, engaged in ongoing personal growth, and dedicated to providing care for children in need. Becoming a Shriner is easier than you think and its rewards can be far more than you expect. Hunter’s Raffle Take the first step, visit our website .

Hunters and friends can still take advantage of Camp Douglas Email your submissions to wimasons.org Lodge No. 272’s gun raffles even with the COVID-19 restrictions.

This year the annual Hunter’s Night has been cancelled but For All Your Transportation Needs the Lodge will be selling tickets for a 24 gun safe, a rifle, a New & Used Vehicles, Service, Parts & Auto Collision Repair shotgun and two handguns. Family Owned and Operated

Tickets are $20.00 Only 500 are being sold! Drawing will be June 1, 2021

For Tickets Contact: Bro. Wade Parker at 608-343-0592 or Bro. Chuck Huffman at 608-315-0056 8 Locations • Visit Us Online at ewaldauto.com/masons

*Limited warranty is on qualiﬁed new vehicles only, some restrictions apply. Leases excluded. Limited warranty is not transferable, a copy of limited warranty is available. See dealer for details.

WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 - PAGE 17 District 6 Masonic Night 18th Annual Lake Country Freemasons At the Ballpark July 10 Lodge Golf Outing is Back on July 12

District 6 is hosting a Masonic Lincoln Ave., Wisconsin Rapids. By Bro. Tom Ewald Night at the Ballpark on Saturday, Tickets will be distributed on July 10, featuring the Wisconsin game day starting at 5:15 p.m. Mark your calendars for Mon- Rapids Rafters vs. Green Bay Gates open at 5:35 p.m. First day, July 12, for the 18th annual Booyah. pitch is at 6:35 p.m. Order tickets Lake Country Freemasons Lodge This fun filled event is open to early, seating is limited to 100. No No. 42 Golf Outing that benefits all Masons and their families and ticket sales after June 25. their Pay It Forward friends. Bring a non-Masonic In keeping with the Grand Mas- Campaign. This year’s event will friend and introduce them to our ter’s worthy cause request, pro- be back at The Legend at Brandy- great fraternity. ceeds from this event will benefit brook Championship Golf Course The cost is $50 per person the South Wood Emerging Pantry in Wales, Wis. Cost per player is which includes exclusive use of the Shelf (SWEPS). $175 or $650 for a foursome. elevated Rat Trap VIP 3rd base Tickets are available from: Bro. Anyone is welcome; men and area at Witter Field. It also in- Jason Laramee, 3195 Swanson women of all skill levels. The event cludes an all you care to eat buffet Road, Wisconsin Rapids, WI will be a scramble format hitting through the 5th inning and all the 54495. the teams best shot through each The Legend at Brandybrook Championship Golf Course in soda, beer and wine you care to Contact jlaramee@rocket hole. A shotgun start is scheduled Wales. drink through the 7th inning. mail.com or 715-712-4001 for for tee off at 11 a.m. There are Witter Field is located at 521 more information. many sponsorship opportunities of the event including the available to youth groups in our commu- starting at just $200. food will be outdoors.” Tom nity.” Bro. Tom Ewald event co-chair added, “Doing the outing 17 years For more information visit Promote your Lodge Activity – Advertise in the said, “We are extremely excited to has been extremely rewarding www.lcfm42.org just click on be back at the Legend especially having raised over $200,000 for events – where a full event flyer is after having to postpone the golf the Lodge. Through the Pay It available for download or inter-

Wisconsin Masonic Journal outing due to COVID-19 last sum- Forward Campaign we have sup- ested parties can register and pay mer. The golf club has done an ported dozens of scholarships, through the same link. For addi- Contact Diane Igl outstanding job preparing for a full given to various Veterans causes tional questions please contact 262-965-3979 and safe season. Naturally every- including Founding the Operation Event co-chairs Bro. Tom Ewald one has to exercise their own Freedom program at Three Pil- at [email protected] or Bro. Tim Email: [email protected] judgment on distancing etc. Most lars, along with numerous appeals Behling at [email protected]. Hancock Lodge Hosts First Drive-up Breakfast

Members of Hancock Lodge No. 229, Ellsworth held their first drive-up pancake breakfast on April 18. Junior Warden Rob Funk is at the grill. It was a new experience for Hancock Lodge. They were successful raising funds for their scholarship program even with a spike in Pierce County COVID-19 cases. Photo by Bro.Milt Helmer

Visit the

Grand Lodge F. & A.M. of Wisconsin Square Store

PAGE 18 - WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 News Events from the Lodges

Eau Claire Lodge program on The Four Cardinal Virtues Eau Claire Lodge 112 Counselor Nick Koerner leads a discussion on The Four Cardinal Virtues, from the perspective of the Stoics and relation to our EA Degree. Eau Claire Lodge has a different lecture and discussion every stated meeting. All Masons are welcome to attend. Brothers from left: Nicholas Koerner, Dustin Larson, Tim Hartzel, Matt Chromey, Jay Gebert, Justin Konwinski, Jeremiah Madison and Casy Schellhorn. Submitted by DDGM Earl Gunderson Island City Lodge highway clean-up

Island City Lodge No. 330, Minocqua, took advantage of a beautiful northern Wisconsin day to clean up a two mile stretch of roadway just south of the Lodge bilding on Highway 51. From left: Jacob Sczmik, PM Leonard Pederson, Senior Warden Rick Rausch, and Master Jerry Koudelka. Not pictured is Jacob’s better half Sara who helped and did an outstanding job taking the picture. Photo by Sara Sczmik Submitted by Bro. David Imlah

Cassia Lodge helps food pantry Cassia Lodge No. 167, Plymouth donated $1000 to the Plymouth New Richmond Lodge Brothers clean-up trail Food Pantry in April. From left: Bro. Jerry Miller, Trustee; Plymouth Food Pantry Treasurer Janet Veleke; and Junior Warden Walter Camp. Brothers of New Richmond Lodge No. 195 recently cleaned up the Doughboy Trail in New Richmond, a Submitted by DDGM Charles L. Smith semi-annual lodge project. Brothers from left: Mike Bessette, Jamie Nutzman, Dan Hagerty, Anthony Rives, Jeff Kuschel, Brady McAdams and Tom White. Brothers Rives and Nutzman were just initiated as EAs a few weeks ago. Not pictured is Theresa Rives, Tony's daughter. Submitted by DDGM Earl Gunderson

Des Peres hosts Table Lodge of EAs Des Peres Lodge No. 85 held a Table Lodge of Entered Apprentices on March 24. Special guests from the Grand Lodge were in attendance. They were honored to have special guests from the Grand Lodge. From Port Washington Fish Fry left: Bob Dodson, Tiler; FC Ryker Schneider; John Berggren, Secretary/Treasurer; FC Carlos Valentin; Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen; AA Mitchell Custer; Master Dan Rothe (seated); Blaise Krautkramer, Good Friday was a Great Fry for the Port Washington Masonic Center, Junior Deacon; DDGM Christian Hirthe; Mark Rothe, Senior Deacon; Scott Heintz, Chaplain; Patrick as a new attendance record was set for a Good Friday Fish Fry. Over Heaney, Junior Warden; (not pictured) Dennis Shimanek, Senior Warden. 180 people were served including Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen Submitted by Bro. John Berggren and his Lady Jan. Submitted by District 10 Lecturer Erwin Wuehr

Attend and Support Your Lodge! Support the Advertisers and in your

Famous Quotes Wisconsin Masonic Journal “Even if you are on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there.” — Will Rogers – American cowboy, Comedian, Humorist, Social commen- tator, Actor & Freemason

WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 - PAGE 19 New Wisconsin Freemasonry Website Released

On behalf of Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen, the website sub-committee is excited to announce the release of the latest revision of the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin website. The website team evaluated outside design firms and engaged with an outside agency to head up the revamp of our website. This new site will provide a Visit us today @ www.wimasons.org solid foundation for some exciting new ini- tiatives.

Planning & Design: Our goal was to separate the site into public & member-facing areas. The focus for the new public-facing area was to inform the public on Freemasonry and drive new membership inquires. The team aimed for consistency in the look and feel while sav- ing resources by leveraging the Scottish Rite NMJ & Shriner backed “BeAFreema- son.com” & “Not Just a Man” digital mar- keting materials.

The members’ area allowed us to move and secure information. Members will need to register to gain access to the members’ site. From the main home page, click “For Member” -> “Members Registration” Once your registration is approved, you will be granted access to more sections including: - Members-Only News/Blog - Masonic Education - Resource Library – containing the documents imported & reorganized from the old website - Masonic Journals - Grand Lodge Calendar Behind the scenes, the website is backed by some new sys- tems, including newly designed CRM, LMS, & DMS. The CRM (customer-relationship management) system will help us to better track website inquires with the support of the GL District Membership Representative (DMR) pilot program. Watch for more information on the DMRs in future articles. The DMS (Document Mgmt System) helped us better organ- ize the many documents and tools in the new “Resource Li- brary”. The LMS (Learning Mgmt System) will provide the Education committee a platform to publish educational content to members. This section is still being developed but the LMS will allow EAs, FCs and MMs to learn and interact with topic-dri- ven content at their own convenience.

CANDIDATE EDUCATION

The old wisc-freemasonry.org website will be retired and redirected to the new site in mid-May 2021. Meanwhile, the web team will continue to make additions and changes, keep an eye out for more soon! For more information, please visit WIMasons.org/contact to fill out an inquiry or email [email protected].

PAGE 20 - WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 News Events from the Lodges

Washington Island Community Health Program Thanks H.S. Baird Lodge and Honor Chapter

The Washington Island Commu- A big thank you goes to the brook, Roxanne Boren, Ellen nity Health Program and Island Sturgeon Bay Masons, especially Graf, Linda Henkel, Christine An- residents would like to extend a Tom Pinney and Andy Starr for dersen and Bill Schott. The meals big thank you to the Sturgeon Bay their coordinating efforts in organ- were delivered safely via a no-con- Masons who included Washington izing and getting 1,009 dinners to tact system due to the ongoing Island in their annual Steamboat Door County homes including COVID-19 pandemic. Dinner on Saturday, March 12. Washington Island; to E’lise Haller This truly was an outreach The Henry S. Baird Masonic for organizing the meal recipients event that exemplifies the commu- Lodge No. 174 and Honor Chap- and delivery routes and to Hoyt nity spirit with neighbors helping ter #1 Order of the Eastern Star Purinton and the WIFL crew for neighbors and caring for our com- kindly cooked, packaged and de- providing the transportation for munity! livered 72 dinners to the Washing- the Island dinners safely to the Is- This article appeared on page ton Island Ferry Line at Northport land. one of the April 14 issue of the which were then transported to Lastly, a hearty thank you goes Washington Island Observer. the Island in a ferry vehicle and de- out to the volunteer drivers and livered to residents by volunteers. deliverers Steve and Margie O’- Submitted by Bro. David Alderfer, Past WICHP helped coordinate this Connor. Dennis and Dianna Master, Freemsons Lodge No. 363 Brothers assist with food prep event for local residents. Young, Dan and Connie West- On Good Friday a few Brothers from Lafayette Lodge No. 265 volun- teered to help out an organization called “Community Projects for Sen- iors” to prepare food for Easter dinner. They handled the technical stuff like opening cans of vegetables. Pictured from the left: Past Grand Mas- ter Joseph B. Harker, Ms. Cindy Novak and Past Grand Master Robert C. Strader. Cindy runs the kitchen and does the planning and organizing to prepare the dinners. For Easter, her group made and delivered around 3000 to 4000 meals over an eight county area. Lafayette Lodge has been involved in helping since last Thanksgiving and Christmas. It does not consume much of one’s day to help, but the time is well-spent, and the experience is gratifying. Submitted by Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen

Wisconsin Masonic Foundation – the Values Bridge

Junior Grand Warden speaks in Oregon “No one will ever be able to calculate the generosity that has drawn its inspiration from the Masonic Lodge Room.” The headline quote that appears on the Wisconsin Masonic Foundation website. It is Junior Grand Warden David R. Ritchie gave a talk on bringing our a quote made during the Grand Lodge’s deliberation and eventual formation of the Masonic Founda- Brothers back to lodge and how every subject today seems to get twisted tion. What a profound statement it was - and still is!

into something political. He emphasized the importance of respecting The charitable work of Wisconsin’s Masonic family, particularly through the Wisconsin Masonic our Brothers opinions. RWBro. Ritchie stated the most important sym- Foundation in it 96 years is almost incalculable. Its value is much more than just a bottom-line total. bol of Masonry is you. It is how you conduct yourself as a Mason. It’s lives saved, lives shaped, community needs met and thousands upon thousands of Acts of Kind- Seated on left is Master Scott Magnusson. ness. All reflecting one of the most important lessons that Freemasons learn from the very first time Submitted by Bro. Dakota Latimer they approach the East as Entered Apprentices – charity that has a positive impact. Do others outside of our Craft notice or appreciate this?

All one need do is look at the list of corporations and other foundations that have joined with us through the years and you will find the answer.

Backus Family Foundation Benevity Community Impact Fund Britany Bay Club Owners Association C S Giving Foundation Claremont S. Jackman Foundation Dillman Family Endowed Fund Door County Community Foundation Emil Ewald Family Foundation Fidelity Funds Francis & Ruth Oberreich Foundation Gordon Food Service Greater Milwaukee Foundation, Inc. Herb Kohl Philanthropies Jerome and Dorothy Holz Family Foundation Knights Templar Foundation Loraine & Olson Beggs Foundation Network for Good North Central Community Foundation Northwestern Mutual Foundation One Touch Dog Training Pay Pal Giving Fund Ripon Area Builders, Inc. Thrivent Choice United Way of Greater Milwaukee

We are pleased to have these partners who have seen and shared the values put forth into communities throughout Wisconsin and beyond. The Wisconsin Masonic Foundation forms that important bridge from our Lodges into our communities with charitable activities that benefit all of us.

Are you employed by a company or charitable organization that might be a good partner in this values bridge? Give us a call or email me at: [email protected] and we’ll help get them involved in some very meaningful work.

WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 - PAGE 21 News Events from the Lodges

Lodge provides for elephants

West Allis Lodge No. 291 recently donated $500 to the water for elephants program at Milwaukee County Zoo. From left: Master Napoleon Past Grand Masters help prepare for pasty sale Janczak, Secretary Derick Smith, and Junior Deacon Justin Fleming present the check to Katie Krecklow from the Zoological Society. Two Past Grand Masters recently traveled to Dodgeville Lodge No. 119 to assist in the preparation work Submitted by Bro. Justin Fleming for the April pasty sale. Past Grand Masters Robert C. Strader and Joseph B. Harker joined the team weigh- ing out and making the crusts. From left: Dodgeville PM Royce Jones, PGM Strader, PGM Harker and Dodgeville Master Orville Olson. Submitted by Past Grand Master Joseph B. Harker

Brother Donates Beef to Help Community

Bro. Brian Chapin, Senior Warden at Collins-Spring Valley Lodge No. 192 recently donated a processed beef to the lodge to be distributed to members of the community. Top left: Bro. Chapin presents over 100 lbs. of ground beef to Eric Russell, superintendent of the Baldwin-Woodville School District. The ground beef will go to needy families in the district. Top right: Fifty pounds of beef roasts were delivered to Pastor Paul Backstrom of Gethsemane Lutheran Church in Baldwin. The roasts will be prepared and served at a monthly dinner the area churches serve to community members. Submitted by DDGM Earl Gunderson

Visit the Please email your submissions to: Wisconsin Square Store at The Wisconsin Masonic Journal www.wisc-freemasonry.org [email protected] Book Your Special Event at the Tripoli Shrine Center Masonic Masks Events from 25-500 Guests Ceremonies Receptions In house Chef for all your Food needs! Holiday Parties Bridal Showers Baby Showers Parlor Corporate Parties Humphery Ballroom- $1900/8 hrs Grand Foyer- $1000/8 hrs Melham Parlor- $500/Day The Grand Lodge Square Store has Masonic Masks for sale individually or in Ballroom bulk. Discounted Rates for Friday and Sunday Events All prices include set-up and take down, tables, chairs, skirting and WiFi. Grand Lodge of Contact: Wisconsin Square Amy Harycki Store [email protected] 3000 W. Wisconsin Ave. 414-933-4700 ext. 3 Milwaukee, WI www.wimasons.org www.tripolishrinecenter.com Foyer

PAGE 22 - WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021

Albany New Diggings Albany Lodge No. 36 Olive Branch Lodge No. 6 205 N. Water St. • 608-778-0802 26750 Cty. Rd. W • 608-965-3122 Meet 3rd Wed., 7:00 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August Meets All Year Stated Communications Appleton New Glarus Waverly Lodge No. 51 for the Mason Traveling in Wisconsin New Glarus Lodge No. 310 315 S. Bluemound Dr. • 920-931-2701 207 6th Avenue • 608-527-2583 (Sec) Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7 p.m. Meets All Year Dark June, July & August

Cecil Evansville Kenosha Menomonie Appleton New Holstein Mason-Woods Lodge No. 368 Union Lodge No. 32 Kenosha Lodge No. 47 Menomonie Lodge No. 164 Calumet Lodge No. 172 Appleton Lodge No. 349 N6446 Emery Ansorge Rd. 705 Brown School Rd • 608-921-9907 115 56th St. • 262-287-9878 105 N. 21st St. • 715-797-9094 2019 Washington St.• 920-257-3885 241 E. Wisconsin Ave., Neenah • 608-642-3692 (Sec) • 3rd Tues., 10 a.m. Meet 2nd Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Meet 2nd (dinner 5:30 p.m.) & 4th Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7 p.m. 920-573-3502, Meet 2nd & 4th Wed., Dark January & February Meets All Year Tues., 7 p.m. Meets All Year Meets All Year Meets All Year 7 p.m. Dark July & August

Chetek Florence Kenosha Mercer Argyle New Richmond Chetek Lodge No. 277 Hiram D. Fisher Lodge No. 222 Unity Lodge No. 367 Hurley Lodge No. 237 New Richmond Lodge No. 195 Argyle Lodge No. 178 216 Morrison St. 5143 N. Montgomery Lake Rd.. 4320 Washington Rd. • 262-657-5575 5189 N. Harper • 715-776-0710 119 E. 2nd St. • 715-246-2144 104 E. Milwaukee St. • 608-523-4714 Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7 p.m. 906-396-7915 Meet 2nd Wed., Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Mondays, 6:30 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Meet 2nd Thursday, 7:30 p.m. Dark June, July & August 6:30 p.m. Meets All Year July & Aug. 1st Thursday Dark December thru March Dark June, July & August Meets All Year

Chippewa Falls Fond du Lac La Crosse Merrill Oconomowoc Baldwin Chippewa Falls Lodge No. 176 Fond du Lac Lodge No. 26 La Crosse Masonic Lodge No. 190 Virginia Falls Lodge No. 226 Lake Country Freemasons Lodge No. 42 Collins-Spring Valley Lodge 192 650 Bridgewater Ave. • 715-579-8949 500 W. Arndt St. • 920-216-7586 118 8th Street So. • 608-782-1616 916½ E. Main St. • 715-536-0020 (Sec.) 2911 N. Dousman Rd., Oconomowoc 790 Main St. • 715-928-0001 (Sec) 1st Tues. stated, 3rd Tues., social, Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7 p.m. 262-367-2309 • Meet 1st & 3rd Wed., Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7 p.m. 7 p.m., Meets All Year Dark July and August Meets All Year Meets All Year 7 p.m., Dark 1st Wed., July & Aug. Meets All Year

Clear Lake Franklin La Crosse Merrillan Oconto Baraboo Clear Lake Lodge No. 230 South Shore Lodge No. 3 Frontier-Badger Lodge No. 45 Merrillan Lodge No. 279 Pine Lodge No. 188 Baraboo Lodge No. 34 411 Third Ave. • 715-268-4310 9023 S. 27th St. • 414-761-6474 118 S. 8th St. • 608-782-1616 105 S. Main Street • 715-333-5643 (Sec) 513 Superior Ave. • 920-604-2826 108 Second Ave. • 608-381-0083 4th Monday, 7:30 p.m., Meet 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7:30 pm Meet 2nd & 4th Thurs., Dinner, 6 pm, Meet 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7 p.m. Meet 2nd Monday, 7 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Wed,, 6 p.m. social, 7 Meets All Year Dark July & August Meeting 7 p.m. Dark July & August Dark January, February & March Dark December & January p.m. meeting. Dark July and August

Columbus Frederic Ladysmith Middleton Oconto Falls Barneveld Columbus Lodge No. 75 Landmark Lodge No. 244 Mystic Tie Lodge No. 280 Four Lakes Daylite Lodge No. 362 Oconto Falls Lodge No. 293 Barneveld Lodge No. 319 318 N. Ludington St. • 920-248-9685 109 United Way • 715-553-0258 705 E. 3rd St. N. • 715-532-7696 (Sec) 7409 Franklin Ave. • 608-831-8947 170 N. Washington St. • 920-373-5747 108 S. Jones St. • 608-445-0445 (Sec) (Sec) • 2nd Mon., 7 p.m., stated Meet 2nd & 4th Tues., Dinner 6 p.m., Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Meets 1st Mon. - 2nd Mon. if 1st is holiday Meet 1st Mon., Sept. 2nd Mon., 7 p.m. Meet 2nd Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. Meets All Year meeting 7 p.m. Meets All Year Meets All Year weekend., 10 a.m. Meets All Year Meets All Year Meets All Year

Crandon Friendship Lake Geneva Middleton Omro Bayfield Crandon Lodge No. 287 Quincy Lodge No. 71 Geneva Lodge No. 44 Middleton-Ionic Lodge No. 180 Omro Lodge No. 168 118 S. Lake Ave. • 715-616-9166 (Sec) 210 Main St. • 608-853-1768 (Sec.) 335 S. Lake Shore Dr. • [email protected] 7409 Franklin Ave. • www.middle Bayfield Washburn No. 215 160 E. Main Street • 920-379-2023 Meet 2nd Tuesdays Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7 p.m. 2nd & 4th Tues., dinner 6 p.m., meet 7 tonionic.org 1st & 3rd Tues., 7:30 p.m. 29 N. 2nd Street • 715-209-6397 Meet 2nd Monday, 7 p.m. Meets All Year Dark January & February p.m., outside gatherings July & Aug. 608-831-5416, Dark July & August Meet 1st Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. Meets All Year

Meets All Year Crivitz Galesville Linden Milton Milton Lodge No. 161 Onalaska Beaver Dam Masonic Light Lodge No. 218 Decora Lodge No. 177 Linden Lodge No. 206 918 Louisa St. • 715-927-8998 618 Main St. • 608-623-2143 (Sec) 508 Vernal Avenue • 608-436-0098 Onalaska Lodge No. 214 Dodge County Lodge No. 72 231 S. Main St. • 608-539-5230 Meet 1st Wednesday 6 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 8 p.m. Meets 4th Tuesday, 7 p.m. 330 Main Street • 608-783-2652 (Sec) 1212 DeClark St • 920-885-2628 Meets 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7:00 p.m. Meets All Year Meets All Year Meets All Year Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Meet 1st Thurs. 7 p.m. & 3rd Mon. Dark July , Aug. & 1st Mon. in Sept. 2nd Thurs. only, July, Aug. Nov. & Dec. 6 p.m. Meets All Year

Darlington Green Bay Lodi Milwaukee Lodi Valley Lodge No 99 Oregon Evening Star Lodge No. 64 Des Peres Lodge No. 85 Damascus Lodge No. 290 Beloit Oregon Lodge No. 151 433 Wells St. • 608-482-3552 (Sec) 1950 Bond St. • 920-455-0212 114 First St. • 608-477-7102 1235 E. Howard Ave. DL290.org Morning Star Lodge No. 10 201 Park St. • 608-444-0074 (Sec) Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7:00 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Tues. Social, RSVP 6 p.m. 229 W. Grand Ave. • 608-530-8265 Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Meets All Year Dark July & August Dark July & August dinner - 7 p.m. meet. Dark July & Aug. Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Meets All Year Delavan Green Bay Lone Rock Milwaukee Oshkosh Southern Lakes Lodge No. 12 N.E.W. Daylite Lodge No. 360 Franklin Lodge No. 16 Day-lite Lodge No. 358 Berlin Oshkosh Lodge No. 27 1007 S. 2nd St., 7 p.m. • 262-210-1499 1950 Bond St. • (920) 562-8086 227 S. Oak St. • 608-583-4303 (Sec) 3000 W. Wisconsin Ave., • 414-421-0314 Berlin Lodge No. 38 204 Washington Ave. • 920-385-1034 Meet 2nd & 4th Mon., 2nd Mon. July and Meet 2nd Thursday, 10 a.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 8 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Mondays,10 a.m. 124 E. Huron St.. • 920-573-1921 Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Aug., 4th Monday Dec. Dark July & August Meets All Year Meets All Year Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7 p.m. Dark July & August

Dark July & August Dodgeville Green Bay Madison Milwaukee Owen Dodgeville Lodge No. 119 Theodore Roosevelt Lodge 322 Commonwealth Lodge No. 325 Freemasons Lodge No. 363 Black River Falls Owen Lodge No. 317 200 W. Chapel St. • 608-935-2751 1950 Bond St. • 920-264-6177 301 Wis. Ave. • 608-212-9053 (Sec.) 3000 W. Wisconsin Ave., • 414-399-3115 Black River Lodge No. 74 713 W. Third St. • 715-271-7471 Meet 3rd Thurs., 6 p.m. meal, 7 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. 3rd Wednesday, 7:00 p.m. 1st Wed., 5:30 p.m. Degrees 4th Wed., 314 Main Street • 715-284-7176 Meets 1st Mon., 7:30 p.m. & 3rd Mon. at Meeting, Meets All Year Dark July & Aug., www.roosevelt322.com Meets All Year 5:30 p.m. Meets All Year Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. 11 a.m., July & Aug. 3rd Mon. at 11 a.m.

Dark July & August Dousman Green Bay Madison Milwaukee Phillips Dousman Lodge No. 315 Washington Lodge No. 21 Doric Lodge No. 356 Lake Lodge No. 189 Bloomer Phillips Lodge No. 225 214 N. Main St. • 414-429-5981 1950 Bond St .• 920-499-7265 85 S. Stoughton Rd. • 608-241-4751 1235 E. Howard Ave. • 414-744-4609 Bloomer Lodge No. 281 137 N. Lake Ave.•715-762-4043, 7:30 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7 p.m. (Sec), Meet 1st & 3rd Tues., 7 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7 p.m. 1516 Larson St. • 715-828-7940 1st Mon., Dec- Feb..; 1st & 3rd Mon. Mar.- 1st Tuesday only July & August Dark July & August Meets All Year Dark on Holidays Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7 p.m. May, Oct. & Nov.; 3rd Mon., June-Sept.

Dark January & February Dousman Hartford Madison Milwaukee Platteville Glenn L. Humphrey Lodge No. 364 Hartford Lodge No. 120 Hiram Lodge No. 50 Lafayette No. 265 Bristol Melody Lodge No. 2 375 State Rd. 67 • 262-965-7360 147 N. Rural St. • 262-408-8564 301 Wisconsin Ave. • 608-209-4312 300 W. Wisconsin Ave. • 414-254-5543 Washburn Lodge No. 145 783 Enterprise Drive • 608-732-0987 Meet 2nd Tuesday, 9:30 a.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7 p.m. Meet 3rd Mondays, 7:30 p.m Meet 2nd Tuesdays, 7 p.m. 8102 - 199th Ave.• 262-865-4552 Meet 1st Tuesday, 7:00 p.m. Meets All Year Meets All Year Meets All Year Meets All Yeart Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Meets All Year

2nd Thurs. only Jan. & Feb. Durand Hayward Madison Milwaukee Plymouth Durand-Pepin No. 149 Keystone Lodge No. 263 Madison Lodge No. 5 Nathan Hale Lodge No. 350 Brodhead Cassia Lodge No. 167 203 W. Main St. • 414-429-5981 10629 Main St. • 715-462-4363 (Sec) 301 Wisconsin Ave. • 608-322-7028 3000 W. Wis. Ave. • 262-955-3621 Bicknell Lodge No. 94 441 Smith St. • 920-892-6336 Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7p.m. Meet 2nd Thursday, 7 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Thurs., RSVP dinner 6 301 1st Center Ave. • 608-897-8069 Meet 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7:00 p.m. Dark July & August Meets All Year Dark 1st Thursday July & August p.m., meet at 7 p.m. Meets All Year Meets 2nd Monday, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Dark July & August Eagle River Hustisford Manawa Mineral Point Portage Eagle River Lodge No. 248 Rock River Lodge No. 108 Manawa Lodge No. 82 Mineral Point Lodge No. 1 Brookfield Fort Winnebago Lodge No. 33 610 E. Division • 715-477-1202 128 E. Anthony St., Hustisford 520 N. Bridge St. • 920-596-2476 304 High St.• 608-220-3408 McKinley Lodge No. 307 111 W. Conant Street • 608-334-6681 Meet 2nd Tuesday, 7 p.m. 920-349-3454 • 1st & 3rd Tues. 7p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Mon., 7 p.m. Meets 3rd Mon., Jan.-March, July-Sept. & Dec., 4550 N. Pilgrim Rd. • 414-350-6352 Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays 7:30 p.m. Meets All Year Dark July & August Dark July and August 1st & 3rd Mon., Apr.,-June, Oct.,-Dec. Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7 p.m. Dark January & February

Dark July & August Eau Claire Hudson Manitowoc Minocqua Port Washington Eau Claire Lodge No. 112 St. Croix Lodge No. 56 Manitowoc Lodge No. 65 Island City Lodge No. 330 Brookfield Ozaukee Lodge No. 17 616 Graham Ave. • 715-379-2310 209 Locust Street • 715-377-0817 810 Chicago St. • 920-905-0344 (Sec) 7529 Hwy 51 South • 715-892-2392 Brookfield Lodge No. 370 504 W. Grand Ave. • 262-292-9999 2nd & 4th Tues. 7 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:00 p.m. Meet 1st Wed., 10 a.m., 3rd Wed., 7 p.m. 4550 N. Pilgrim Rd. • 414-940-5632 Meet 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7 p.m. Meets All Year Dark July & August Meets All Year Meets All Year Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Meets All Year

Dark July & August Marinette Mondovi Eau Claire Iron River Potosi George B. Wheeler Lodge No. 351 Ancient Landmark No. 210 Marinette Lodge No. 182 Buffalo River Lodge No. 252 Brookfield Warren Lodge No. 4 616 Graham Ave. • 715-495-1620 7575 West Mill St. • 715-372-4684 1610 Main St. • 715-923-9397 245 S. Franklin • 715-797-3261 (Sec) Wisconsin Lodge No. 13 112 S. Main St. • 608-763-2221 (Sec) Meet 2nd & 4th Wed., Dinner 6 p.m., 1st Wed., 7 p.m., Meets All Year Meet 1st Thursday, 7:30 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7 p.m. 4550 N. Pilgrim Rd.. • 262-939-2985 Meets 1st Thursday, 7:30 p.m. meet 7 p.m., Dark July & Aug. [email protected] Dark July & August Dark July & August Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:00 p.m. Meets All Year

Dark June & July Eau Claire Iron River Marshfield Monroe Prairie du Chien Sanctuary Lodge No. 347 Barnes Lodge No. 365 Marshfield Lodge No. 224 Smith Lodge No. 31 Burlington Prairie du Chien Lodge No. 8 616 Graham Ave. • 715-318-1214 7575 West Mill St. • 715-372-5425 402 W. 4th St. • 715-387-4957 1613½ Tenth St. • 608-329-4641 Burlington Lodge No. 28 105½ E. Blackhawk Avenue Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:00 p.m. Meet 2nd Tues. 7:00 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Thurs., 6 p.m. social Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. 325 N. Kane St. • 262-210-9510 608-326-4640 (Sec) • Meet 1st & 3rd Dark Maundy Thurs., July & August Dark January & February 7 p.m. meeting. Meets All Year Dark June & July & August Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7 p.m. Wed., 7:30 p.m. • Meets All Year

Dark July & August Edgerton Janesville Medford Mukwonago Prescott Fulton Lodge No. 69 Janesville-Western Star No. 55 Medford Lodge No. 217 Laflin-St. James Lodge No. 247 Cambridge Northwestern Lodge No. 105 312 W. Fulton St.• 608-438-8314 2322 E. Milwaukee St. • 608-752-3098 150 S. Seventh St. • 715-748-6909 206 S. Main St. • 262-470-8616 Social Lodge No. 245 132 N. Court St. • 651-210-4408 (Sec) Meets 1st Wednesday, 7:30 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7 p.m. Meet 2nd Mondays 7:30 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7 p.m. 105 S. Spring St. • 608-423-7081 Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Dark July & August Meets All Year Meets All Year Dark July & August Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Dark July & August www.social245.org • Meets All Year Jefferson Menomonee Falls Neenah/Menasha Ellsworth Racine Jefferson County Lodge No. 9 Lincoln Lodge No. 183 Twin Cities Lodge No. 61 Camp Douglas Hancock Lodge No. 229 Racine-Belle City Lodge No. 18 617 Masonic Blvd. • 920-674-6715 N86 W16856 Appleton Ave.• 414-640- 241 E. Wisconsin Ave. • 920-722-3611 Camp Douglas Lodge No. 272 400 High Point Dr. • 715-273-4263 1012 Main St. • 262-633-6658 Meet 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7 p.m. 6569. Meet 2nd Tues., 7 p.m. Meets 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7 p.m. 211 Main St. • 608-343-0592, Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Meets All Year Dark June - Aug. Open after Labor Day Meets 1st Tuesday, 7 p.m. Meet 1st Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August Meets All Year Meets All Year Meets All Year Lodge Listings are continued on page 24

WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 - PAGE 23 Stated Communication Help Us Identify Brothers (continued from page 23) Accomplishing Great Things

Reedsburg Waukesha For generations Freemasonry in our State Capital and other themselves. Reedsburg Lodge No. 79 Waukesha Lodge No. 37 has attracted the best men of their seats of government. We have In future editions of the Wiscon- 213 E. Main St. • 608-415-2596 317 South Street • 414-745-8315 generation. We have had men of men working in Universities, labs, sin Masonic Journal we would like Meet 1st & 3rd Thurs., 7:30 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. www.reedsburglodge79.org Dark July & August government, science and the arts. and in the fields furthering the sci- to highlight those men. These are Men who have been explorers, ences. We have Brothers who men of exemplary feats outside of Rhinelander Waupaca warriors, and leaders. I have heard have accomplished great things in Masonry. Men we sit in lodge Rhinelander Lodge No. 242 Waupaca Lodge No. 123 it asked, “Where are these men sports. Our Brothers are pub- with, on the level, but have done 23 E. Davenport St. • 715-362-3080 105½ N. Main Street • 715-258-6198 today? Why aren’t we attracting lished authors and talented musi- or are doing great things. If you Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7 p.m. this type of man like we used to?” cians. Many men in our ranks know of a Brother of great ac- Meets All Year Dark June, July & August The answer to these questions lies have defended this country with complishment, heroic stature, or Rice Lake Waupun in the type of man Masonry brings military distinction. We do not just plain interesting please con- Blue Hills Lodge No. 234 Waupun Lodge No. 48 in. In one word, “humility.” hear of them because most are tact Dave Ritchie 608-482-3553 225 W. South St. • 715-495-2374 16 S. Madison St. • 920-324-3141 Today we have Masons working simply too humble to talk about or [email protected]. Meet 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7:00 p.m. Meets 1st Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. Thanks. Let’s highlight these Meets All Year Dark July & August humble men amongst us. Project Adam AED Richland Center Wausau Richland Lodge No. 66 Forest Lodge No. 130 Promote Your 290 W. Union St. • 608-553-1418 (Sec) 3815 Fleet Dr., Wausau • 715-298-6002 Meet 1st Wednesday, 7 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Program Saves Lives Meets All Year Dark June, July & August Lodge’s Events Since its inception, our Ma- they need replacement pads and Advertise your Lodge’s upcom- Ripon Wautoma sonic Medical Foundation defibril- batteries? The Medical Fund can ing fundraising events in the Wis- Prairie View Lodge No. 95 Wautoma Lodge No. 148 W14188 County Rd. KK. • 920-229-6204 203 S. Scott St. • 920-765-2495 (Sec.) lator program has been known to assist with matching grants for consin Masonic Journal. Meet 2nd Tuesdays, 7:00 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7 p.m. have saved over 30 lives! those efforts as well. Contact Diane Igl at Meets All Year. Dark Jan. and Feb. The Wisconsin Masonic Foun- Contact Erika Miller, Develop- [email protected] or 262- dation Medical Fund is still proudly ment Officer, Wisconsin Masonic 965-3979. River Falls Wauwatosa supporting matching grants for Foundation, 36275 Sunset Drive, Send information on your up- River Falls Lodge No. 109 Henry L. Palmer Lodge No. 301 the placement of Automatic Exter- Dousman, WI 53118 262-965- coming lodge functions to be in- 122 E. Walnut St. • 715-222-3939 (Sec.) 4315 N. 92nd St. • 262-424-6993 Meet 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. 4th Fri., 6 p.m. dinner, 7 p.m. meeting nal Defibrillators in schools and 2200, ext. 831. Email cluded in the Masonic Calendar to 3rd Tuesday only Jan., July & August Meets All Year other public buildings. Since the [email protected]. [email protected]. cost of the units has come down Sheboygan Wauwatosa over the years, we offer a dollar Sheboygan Lodge No. 11 James M. Hays Lodge No. 331 for dollar match of up to $800 per 1138 Union Ave. • 920-718-1986 (Sec.) 4315 N. 92nd St. • 414-349-7650 unit ($1600 total). Meet 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, 6:00 p.m. 1st Monday, 6:30 p.m. Grants that are considered part Classified Advertising Meets All Year Dark July & August of Project ADAM (AEDs in Wis- Wisconsin's Masonic Marketplace Shell Lake Wauwatosa consin High Schools) are pre-ap- Shell Lake /Spooner Lodge No. 221 Independence Lodge No. 80 proved, while an AED placed in 28 Doboy Drive • 715-296-3638 4315 N. 92nd St. • 414-745-3437 any other level of school or public For Sale Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7:00 p.m. 4th Thurs., 7 p.m. building must be voted upon by Meets All Year Meets All Year the Board of Directors at their Two Burial Plots in Arlington Park Cemetery quarterly meeting. Shullsburg West Allis In order to have a grant request 4141 South 27th St., Greenfield, WI 53221 Amicitia Lodge No. 25 Wauwatosa Lodge No. 267 considered, a Lodge must submit: 127½ Water St. • 608-963-5951 7515 W. National Ave. • 262-662-9934 Block 25, Lot 12, Spaces 1 & 2 Meet 2nd & 4th Thursday, 7 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7 p.m. 1) A letter defining the pro- Meets All Year Dark July & August gram, cost of the unit, whom it will serve, organization's impact $4,000 for both (Reduced $1,000 each) Sparta West Bend on the community, etc., on Lodge Valley Lodge No. 60 West Bend Lodge No. 138 letterhead. Call: 414-550-8832 (Bob or Linda) 603 N. Court St. • 608-269-2616 301 N. University Dr. • 262-323-6532 2) A letter from the organiza- Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesday, 7 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7 p.m. Dark July & August Meets All Year tion receiving the AED, stating that they do not have funds set Star Prairie West Salem aside in their budget for this type Single Crypt Indoors Salem Lodge No. 125 of purchase. North Star Lodge No. 187 207 Bridge St. • 715-220-7214 101 W. Hamilton St. • 608-786-0930 (Sec) 3) Up to $800 in matching Forest Home, Milwaukee Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:00 p.m. Meets 4th Wednesday, 7:00 p.m. funds, made payable to the: Wis- Dark June, July & August Dark July & August Worth $10,000 Now $5000 consin Masonic Foundation Med- ical Fund. Stevens Point Whitefish Bay This is still a very important pro- Call: 262-895-0086 Evergreen Lodge No. 93 Aurora Lodge No. 30 1756 Dixon St. • 715-572-3981, 517 E. Beaumont Ave. • 414-422-0669 gram, and now is the time, if your Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesday, 7:00 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Lodge has not participated. Meets All Year Dark July & August There are many places in Wiscon- LET OUR CLASSIFIEDS WORK FOR YOU sin communities that could benefit Stoughton Whitefish Bay from this lifesaving equipment. At only 40 cents per word Kegonsa Lodge No. 73 Geo. Washington 1776 Lodge No. 337 If your Lodge has already placed 125 S. 5th St. • 608-279-4299 Call Diane at 262-965-3979 517 E. Beaumont Ave. • 414-979-1776 an AED(s), now is a great time to Meet 1st Tues., 7 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Check out our Classified Advertising rate sheet on the Grand Dark July & August Dark July & August check back with them. Do they

need to upgrade their unit? Do Lodge Web Page at www.wisc-freemasonry.org Sturgeon Bay Whitewater Henry S. Baird Lodge No. 174 St. John’s Whitewater-Palmyra No. 57 31 S. 3rd Ave. • 920-493-3727 226 W. Main Street • 262-441-0203 Meet 2nd & 4th Thurs., 6:30 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August Meets All Year Let’s Have Some Fun and Celebrate!

Sun Prairie Wilmot Sun Prairie Lodge No. 143 Wilmot Lodge No. 241 Call Sec. for Meeting Location • 608-770- 30702 113th St. • 847-774-0013 District 2 Spring Meeting 2018 Meet 1st & 3rd Mon., 7 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August Dark 4th Tuesday July & August

Superior Winneconne Wednesday May 12, 5 p.m. - ?? Acacia-Itasca Lodge No. 329 Winneconne Lodge No. 186 Baldwin American Legion Hall 3117 N. 21 St .• 218-590-2754 (Sec.) 100 N. 1st Street • 608-219-6935 (Sec) Meet 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Tues., 7 p.m. Cost: $15/person (pay at the door) Meets All Year Dark Dec., Jan. and Feb.

Superior Wisconsin Dells Superior Lodge No. 236 Dells Lodge No. 124 The Program will feature: 1503 Belknap St .• 218-590-0537 815 Oak St. • 608-479-1230 Meet 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7 p.m. Awards for D-2 Rookie of the Year & D-2 Mason of the Year Meets All Year Dark January & February Speakers: Tomah Wisconsin Rapids Tomah Lodge No. 132 Freemasonry during the Holocaust, Bro. Marcus A. Mueller, Wisconsin Rapids Lodge No. 128 Glen Avon Lodge, Duluth, Minnesota. 520 E. Saratoga Street • 608-372-5507 2321 2nd Ave. So. • 715-630-9143 Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Wed., 6 p.m. meal, 7 p.m. Dark July & August meeting, Dark July & August Deputy Grand Master Gary L. Stang, Status of Annual Communication and his vision for our fraternity going forward.

Union Grove Silas H. Shepherd Union Grove Lodge No. 288 Lodge of Research No. 1843 1021 – 11th Ave. • 262-878-1494 Oconomowoc • 262-893-1106 Entertainment Meet 3rd Saturday, 8:30 a.m. 2nd Saturday • March, June, Sept., Dec. Meets All Year Call for meeting location Reserve your spot through your lodge Master or Secretary. DDGM Earl Gunderson will be Waterloo contacting them on May 5 for the number attending from your lodge for final meal count. To list your lodge contact Waterloo Lodge No. 63 Diane Igl, 300 Hendricks St.. • 920-478-2800 Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. [email protected] All Masons of all degrees, spouses, girlfriends, potential Masons and friends Meets All Year 262-965-3979 are invited to attend.

PAGE 24 - WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 Testimonial Dinner for Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen and Lady Jan

By Bro. Dave Ritchie The Grand Master, Most Worshipful Kenneth C. Gorgen and his Lady Jan, were honored at a testimonial dinner in Milwaukee on April 25. Brothers and Ladies gathered to honor our Grand Master. The evening was emceed by the Grand Master’s son Bro. Mike Gorgen, current Grand Mar- shal, past DDGM and District Lecturer. The evening began with the reading of a letter from Past Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik who appointed M.W. Brother Ken to the Progres- sive Line. During the meal the Grand Master’s Masonic history was given and Worshipful Brother Tom Kelly, Master of McKinley Lodge No. 307, read a proclamation from the Governor, Tony Evers, honoring Grand Master Gorgen. Bro. Matt Turner, Junior Warden of McKinley Lodge, presented the Grand Master with a beautiful set of kitchen knives from the Brothers of the Lodge. The gift was given in tribute to the many dinners the Grand Master has prepared in his home Lodge. Bro. Bob Skaradzinski, Master of James M. Hays Lodge No. 331, presented a check from the Brothers of Hays Lodge for the Grand Master’s Appeal. The Grand Master is a plural member of the Lodge. Two Brothers from the floor announced that they would each contribute an additional $1,000 to the Grand Master’s appeal challenging the craft to reach a goal of $75,000 by the Annual Communication in June. It is now at $61,000 After the meal the Grand Lodge Officers and their Ladies, presented M.W. Brother Ken and Lady Jan with a bench in their honor which will be placed near one of the ponds on Grand Master Gorgen enjoys his evening. the campus of Three Pillars in Dousman. The dinner was closed as per tradition with a few words from the Grand Master who thanked the Brothers and all in attendance.

Junior Grand Warden David R. Ritchie and his Lady present the Grand Master Grand Master Gorgen’s son Grand Marshal Michael A. Gorgen, and his Lady a gift from the Grand Lodge Officers and their ladies. It is a emcee for the evening presents a few gifts from the family. bench to be placed along one of the ponds at Three Pillars. Photos by Rich Rygh

Bro.Tom Kelley, Master of McKinley Lodge No. 307, presents the Grand Master a proclaimnation honoring the him by the Governor of Wisconsin Tony Evers.

Bro. Bob Skaradzinski, Master of James M. Hays Lodge No. 331, presents a check from the Brothers of Hays Lodge for the Grand Master’s Appeal. Amy Gorgen records the occassion.

WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 - PAGE 25 News Events from the Lodges

Grand Lodge Officers Visit Hancock Lodge

Bro. Velders of Rookie of the Year

District Deputy 7 Deputy Grand Master Matthew H. Ivens presents Bro. Gregg Velders (right) with the District 7 Rookie of the Year Award during Sun Prairie Lodge No. 143’s social meeting on April 6. Bro. Gregg was raised a Master Mason in February, 2019, and since that time has hit the deck running by serving two terms as the Junior Deacon of Sun Prairie Lodge, serving on several degree teams, has been a first line Grand Lodge Officers visiting Hancock Lodge from left: Grand Master Kenneth C. Gor- signer in welcoming several new Brothers into the Lodge. He helped gen, Deputy Grand Master Gary L. Stang, Grand Master Ethan A. Seaberg, Grand Lodge by personally donating additional money alongside Sun Prairie Lodge’s A.F. & A.M. of Minnesota and District 2 Deputy Grand Master Earl Gunderson. donation to the Sun Prairie Police Department to fully fund a new K9 Photos by Bro. Milt Helmer dog. Bro. Gregg's commitment to his lodge and community are in keeping with the highest tenets of the fraternity and reflect great credit upon By Bro. Milt Helmer himself, his achievements, and our Brothers. Hancock Lodge No. 229, Ellsworth, was the scene of a Submitted by Bro. Matthew Braun, Master special visit on March 23 from Grand Lodge officers from Wisconsin and Minnesota including Grand Master Ethan Seaberg of Minnesota and Grand Master Kenneth C. Gor- Washburn Lodge St. gen. The grand officers were given full Masonic honors by the team at Hancock Lodge. This was only the second time in Patrick’s Day Dinner the history of Hancock Lodge when Grand Masters from both states sat in the East in Ellsworth. Back in 1991, Grand The Brethren of Washburn Lodge No. 145 opened the doors Master Benjamin F. Detroy of Wisconsin and Grand Master for their 29th Annual St. Patrick's Charles Baltos of Minnesota shared the East to honor signing Day Corned Beef and Cabbage the petition for Bro. Steve Eaton of Ellsworth. Bro. Eaton Dinner, featuring fine Irish fare ex- was the first Brother to have both Grand Masters sign his pe- pertly cooked by Chef Ruth At- tition. wood on March 14.! Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen reported that his Food was continuously served Grand Masters Appeal has netted $61,000 for the Feed the from 10:30 a.m. until 5 p.m., Children campaign. with hundreds of dinners carried Grand Master Ethan A. Seaberg shared greetings during out, going out to curbside service, and being served by the Brethren the special meeting, he said in the history written about his in our limited-capacity dining area, Grand Master Ethan A. home lodge in Red Wing, Hancock lodge was referred to Atwood Hall. Seaberg addresses the lodge. many times. On a lighter note, Grand Master Seaberg com- The event was a huge success, mented there are warm feelings between Minnesota and Wis- as the community came together consin with the possible exception of football. to celebrate as well. The Brethren of Washburn Lodge wish to thank Chef Ruth and her family for the tireless ef- fort that they always put toward making this event so successful, as well as the surrounding communities that support their efforts, and the hard work of those who worked so hard to keep the event flowing.

On right: Master Mark Gray waits on a table.

Reedsburg Lodge distributes chicken pies A customer (second from right) picks up his Chicken Pies at the VFW in Reedsburg on April 18. Reedsburg Lodge No. 79 makes their special deep-dish, all meat, chicken pies annually as a fundraiser for the Lodge. This year 1500 pies were made and sold. From left: District 8 Deputy Grand Master Daniel C. Brylla, Master Mike Whiteside, Ken Walter and Shawn Fahrenkampf. Photo by Rich Rygh Visit the all new information-packed Grand Lodge website at www.wimasons.org

PAGE 26 - WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 News Events from the Lodges Shawano Area Masons Sweetheart Dinner

Shawano Lodge No. 170 Sec- retary Jim Campbell hosted the annual Lodge Sweetheart’s dinner at the Season’s Restaurant in Shawano on March 20. Bro. Campbell recognized the Green Bay Beja Shrine Potentate Ben Rodgers, the lodge Master Bro. Edward Kodai and our ladies. A hypnotist entertained the group, he made several examples of the power of the mind. The steaks and other entrees were cooked to perfection; the ladies were all presented with a rose by Brother Campbell to show our appreciation for our Sweet- hearts. A most enjoyable evening was had by all. Virginia Falls Lodge confers Master Mason Degree

Submitted and photo by Bro. Jim Campbell pre- Under strict COVID-19 precautions provided by the Grand Lecturer Patrick D. Cholka, and approved by Bro. George Tincher pares to hand out the Most Worshipful Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen, Virginia Falls Lodge No. 226 conferred the Master roses for the ladies Mason Degree on Bro. Jonathan P. Lanctin, fifth from the left in the front row, on April 10, 2021. This is the first MM Degree conferred in the state of Wisconsin since the COVID restrictions began over a year ago. There were 24 Brothers present. Due to the large number of guests from many lodges around the district and the state, it is not possible to accurately identify every person correctly in the photo. Those present for the degree and in this photo are: from Virginia Falls Lodge No. 226, Corey Nowak, Master; Andrew Caylor, Senior Warden; Cutler Nowak, Junior Warden; Barry Maxfield, Secretary/Treasurer; Matthew Zastrow, Senior Deacon; Cody Rogers, Junior Deacon; and Stanley Seeger, Tiler. From Forest Lodge No. 130: District 3 Deputy Grand Master Jacob Seever; Ryan Wojicehowski, Mas- ter; Dan Maguire Area Administrator Jesse Furrer; and Gilbert Holcomb. From Quincy Adams Lodge No. 71: Mike Karas, Master; Mike Willis, Secretary/Treasurer; Darrell Smith, Senior Deacon; and Larry Curtis, Tiler. From Island City Lodge No. 330: David Imlah, Secretary; and Will Mackay, Chaplain. From Burlington Lodge No. 28: Bill Hahnfeldt. From Unity Lodge No. 387: Bill Shelley. From McKinley No. 307: Jonathan Schroeder. From Phillips No. 225: District 3 Lecturer Tony Budaj. From Ladysmith Lodge No. 280: Jimmy Enjoying the meal and fellowship. Boy Edming. From Eagle River No. 248, Scott Sorge, Master. Submitted by Bro. Barry Maxfield, Secretary/Treasurer, Virginia Falls Lodge Past Grand Master Robert C. Strader Honored with Surprise Testimonial

By Rich Rygh

Past Grand Master Robert C. Strader and his Lady Barbara were surprised with a testimonial at the Friday evening dinner during the Staff Meeting in Milwaukee on April 23. Senior Grand Warden Paul T. Tourville emceed the program honoring PGM Strader. Several Brothers reflected on his Masonic history beginning in Freemasons Lodge No. 363 when he was raised on March 25, 1997. He has served as Master of his Lodge, Grand Master of Masons in Wisconsin, Potentate of Tripoli Shrine and Thrice Potentate Master of the Lodge of Perfection in the Valley of Mil- waukee. He was coronated a 33º Mason in 2013. He is also a York Rite Mason and a member of the National Sojourners Emcee Senior Grand Warden Paul T. Tourville introduces among many other lodges and Masonic Appendant bodies. PGM Strader. Grand Treasurer Jeffrey L. Bryden joined the program from Florida. He brought greetings from the Sovereign Grand Com- mander David A. Glattly 33º, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction Scottish Rite. Grand Treasurer Bryden stated, “We all have ben- efited from Bob’s leadership and importantly his friendship. Not only has he shown his skills as a leader, he has also been a worker, he is not afraid to roll up his sleeves, he is not afraid to take on any task, no matter what it might be or when it might be, and he has enriched each of our organizations immensely.” Bro. Damon Sanchez re- Brothers took the microphone and told of his friendship and At left: Past flected on his interactions mentoring. All reflecting on his warm smile and the twinkle in Grand Master with PGM Strader over his eye. Strader and the years. PGM Strader was presented four bottles of his favorite liba- his Lady Bar- tion. bara enjoy the Photos by Rich Rygh festivities.

Past Grand Master Strader tells of his experiences as a Grand Master dealing with the COVID-19.

WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 - PAGE 27 Promote Your Lodge Events New Entered Apprentices Advertise your Lodge’s upcoming fund raising events in the Wis- consin Masonic Journal. Email Diane Igl at diane@wimas ons.org. or call 262-965-3979. Send information on your up- All new website coming lodge functions to be included in the Wisconsin Masonic www.wimasoniccharities.com Journal Calendar to [email protected].

Bro. Kurt Erickson is new EA The first EA degree and the first degree in District 8 since March 12, 2020 was conferred on April 8, 2021. Seven area lodges were represented: Mineral Point No. 1, Warren No. 4, Richland No. 66, Reedsburg No. 79, Dodgeville No.119, Linden No. 206 and Barneveld No. 319. Front row from left: Steve Davis, Master, Richland Lodge; Past Grand Master Davey L. White Jr., Third Section; and Kurt Erickson, new EA. Second row: Darren Jones, Chaplain; Jim Davis, Junior Warden; Bill Keeney, Junior Deacon and Second Section; Brian Pishion, Master; Leonard Pishion, Tiler; and Brent Clausius, AA8-1. Back row: District 8 Deputy Grand Master Dan Brylla; Ross Jones, Senior Deacon; Jim Scoville, Secretary/Treasurer; Dave Grinder, Senior Warden; Vernon Massey, Junior Steward; and Dan Maughan, Charge. Not pictured: Orville Olson, Senior Steward. District Eight Events

Reedsburg Lodge initiates two new EAs Brothers Jeff Feltz and Mark Forege were recently initiated in Reedsburg Lodge No. 79. Front row from left: Jeff Feltz, Mark Foege, Master Mike Whiteside, Kevin Schuman, Bill Gant and Jon Fuhlbohm. Second row: Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen, Shawn Fahrenkampf, Grand Tiler Thomas A. Schlicht, Joey Williamson and Bryant Clements. Back row: Eben Christensen, Ken Walters and Deron McBride. Not pictured: Bob Anderson and Clarence Lee. Photo by DDGM Daniel C. Brylla New Fellowcraft

Bro. Merlin Steffen is new FC in River Falls Bro. Merlin Steffen was passed to the degree of Fellowcraft on April 6, in the River Falls Lodge 109. Front row from left: Blair Conklin, Bill Reed, Merlin Steffen, Mike Elliott (conferred the degree), Austin Mahanakee, Martin Kroenig and James Macfarlane of Collins-Spring Valley Lodge. Back row: Bob Hering, Logan Schmidt, Doug Hoffman, Dave Vold, Bob Fisher, Jim Wolfe, Dean Monroe, Scott McBeath and Fred Ben- son. Photo by Bro. Milt Helmer

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WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 - PAGE 28 New Fellowcrafts

Distict 7 Gavel at Waterloo After 419 days in the possession of Sun Prairie Lodge No. 143, the District 7 Traveling Gavel was captured by the Brothers of Waterloo Lodge No. 63 on April 20. From left: Parker Dow; Matthew Braun, Master of Sun Prairie Lodge presenting the captured gavel to Frank Rumisek, Master of Waterloo Lodge; and Richard Wegner II. Bro. Derek Struss is new FC in Chetek Lodge Submitted by Bro. Matthew Braun Chetek Lodge No. 277 is proud to present our new Fellowcraft, Bro. Derek Struss. From left: Jim Esswein; Jim Toman; Darryl Dahl; Jim Sells; Les Paulson, Chippewa Falls Lodge and Eau Claire Lodge; Derek Struss; Past Grand Master Franklin J. Struble; Harlan Dodge, Blue Hills Lodge; Tom Nicolaides; and Jim Meachem. Submitted by Bro. James Toman

Two new Fellowcrafts in Day Lite Lodge Day Lite Lodge No. 358, after a long long wait were able to confer the Fellowcraft Degree on Damilola Olaifa and Steve Mullins on April 5. Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen was on hand and assisted in the degrees. Day Lite has been meeting virtually until this meeting. From left: Grand Master Kenneth C. Gorgen; Joe Mullins, Senior Deacon; Damilola Olaifa, new Fellowcraft; Don Skarda, Master; Jeremy Koss, Senior Warden (conferring Master); Steve Mullins, new Fellowcraft; Dennis Miles, PM; Past Grand Master Robert C. Strader. Photo by Past Grand Master Joseph B. Harker

Rock River Lodge delivers gavel

The Brothers of Rock River Lodge No. 108 delivered the Traveling Gavel to Ozaukee Lodge on April 5. Rock River Lodge was impressive in their delivery with eight members in attendance. Master John Chris- tianson presented the gavel to Ozaukee Master Nick Abt (right). Submitted by District 10 Lecturer Erwin Wuehr

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Brothers Kriegel and Kraegenbrink are new FCs Brothers William Kriegel and John Kraegenbrink II were Passed to the Degree of Fellowcraft on April 13, in Virginia Falls Lodge No. 226. Front row from left: District 3 Lecturer Tony Budaj, Phillips 225; William Kriegel; Barry Maxfield, Conferring Master; John Kraegenbrink II; Master Corey Nowak; Will Mackay, Island City Lodge. Second row: Jason Bondioli, FC; and Jonathan Lanctin. Back row: Andrew Caylor, An- drew Riley, FC; Stanley Seeger; Cody Rogers; and Cutler Nowak. Submitted by Bro. Barry Maxfield, Secretary/Treasurer

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PAGE 29 - WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021

Master Mason

Blue/Golden Varsity Jacket

A must for all Masons. Made of 100% Wool Body with Genuine Leather Sleeves with inside Polyester Quilted Lining on Collar, Cuff & Bottom Rib. Jacket has One internal and Two External Pock- ets with Superior District 2 Traveling Gavel on the move Quality Buttons, 12" Back and 5" Front Masonic Embroidered A delegation from River Falls Lodge 109 stood up and claimed the District 2 Traveling Gavel from Hancock Delivery: 6 to 8 Weeks Lodge No. 229 on March 23. The occasion was the appearance of Grand Masters of Wisconsin and Min- Square & Compass nesota. Brothers from left: Scott McBeath of River Falls; Chris Tashjian, Master of Hancock Lodge; Chris with Wisconsin embroi- Falkner, Master of River Falls; and Logan Schmidt and Austin Mahanke both of River Falls Lodge. dered underneath. Sizes Small-3XL Photo by Bro. Milt Helmer PGM Moore Joins in Groundbreaking Past Grand Master Robert E. Moore (1989-1990) stepped in to turn over a few shovels full of ground at the recent groundbreaking of the renovation and modern- Support the Advertisers izing of the Three Pillars Senior Living Communities in Dousman in your on April 8. From left: Grand master Kenneth C. Gorgen, PGM Moore and CEO Bro. Mark Wisconsin Masonic Strautman. Photo by Rich Rygh Journal

Traveling Gavel

District 1 District 7 Barnes Lodge No. 365 Waterloo Lodge No. 143 District 2 District 8 Menomonie Lodge No. 164 Linden Lodge No. 206 District 3 District 9 Island City No. 330 Dodge County Lodge No. 9 District 4 District 10 Mason-Woods Lodge No. 368 Ozaukee Lodge No. 17 District 5 District 11 Black River Lodge No. 74 Burlington Lodge No. 28 District 6 District 12 Wisconsin Rapids Lodge No. 128 Damascus Lodge No. 290

Please check with the Master of the lodge listed before scheduling a trip to claim the Traveling Gavel. It may already have been claimed by or delivered to another lodge.

WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - MAY 2021 - PAGE 30