volume 81 •number 1 printed on recycled paper February 2009 Grand Master’s Message: Americanism ur Montana Masonic Code requires all lodges of government that we enjoy today. the principles and ideals upon which our country was to observe Americanism in February of As we conduct our daily business we have a chance founded. Oeach year. The American Heritage College to foster patriotism We as masons must always keep Dictionary defi nes Americanism as and duty to our a strong sense of national pride and (1) a custom, trait, or tradition originating in the country in all that we patriotism to protect and ensure that United States, do. This can done our American pride is not sabotaged (2) a word, phrase or idiom characteristic of by removing our hat, by lesser thinking men who jeopardize American English, putting our hand over our country and form of government (3) allegiance to the United States and its customs our heart and standing in the belief that they are doing right. and institutions. when the National We must remain ever vigilant! As defi ned, we are to reaffi rm our allegiance to our Anthem is played at country, its customs, institutions and traditions. This can sporting events or be done in conjunction with other patriotic organizations other activities. We such as the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, can proudly display Robert A. Coleman, Grand Master Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. the American fl ag on Americanism is a sense of well being that each holidays and other individual must feel for himself. We cannot dictate occasions. We need or legislate it. Masons from time immemorial have always fostered a fi erce national Americanism is a sense of well pride and were always at the being that each individual must forefront of any change in the feel for himself. ruling of our government. It to rekindle in ourselves and our was the free thinking and children the old-fashioned way of strong sense of national pride patriotism and a true devotion to that our forefathers harbored that brought us the form

The Importance of Being An Active Freemason he secrets of are of two kinds: benefi ts of those values. It is also necessary to preserve those imparted in the three degrees to admit them for all future generations. Tthe Brother to a means of recognizing other To keep the fl ame of liberty and Freemasonry burning Masons; and those attainable only by himself through a brightly in our minds and hearts, and thus in our lodges, severe course of study of the symbolism and spirit of it is essential that we act out the sacred obligations we Freemasonry in general. have made to God and humanity. It is a profi ciency in the second part of the art that To understand literally the symbols and allegories and more especially indicates an active and intelligent Mason. to translate them into action is to be engaged in a mighty A review of the long past will disclose the efforts of cause – the realization of the true meaning of Truth Freemasons through the centuries to perpetuate the and knowledge, so as to be devoted to the spiritual and ideals and principles of Freemasonry, the courage and actual freedom of man. determination of Freemasons to defy and overcome M.W. Brother Jack Levitt Enjoy despotism, and the insistence that man walk in dignity as an individual. Such a review will highlight the necessity President’s to make Freemasonry a viable force. Moral and spiritual values must be stressed if we wish Day our children and grand-children to live and enjoy the

Montana Masonic News US POSTAGE PAID PO Box 1158 Permit No. 197 Helena, MT 59624-1158 Helena, MT Non-Profi t Organization ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED 2 MONTANA MASONIC NEWS FEBRUARY 2009 Libby Lodge NO. 85 Degree Work Moving Lodge Forward n November 15th, 2008 an exemplary effort was displayed by members of the Montana OGrand Commandery, Montana Grand Chapter and Glacier District Symbolic Lodges: Whitefi sh #64, Troy #126, Bigfork #150 and Trinity #152, in conferring the E.A. degree on two candidates. Libby Lodge No. 85 received degree assistance in the conferring of the Entered Apprentice Degree. As we are called to labor in the quarries to assist in the shaping of rough ashlars, we may demonstrate through our own actions the purpose of our working tools, in particular our own 24 inch gauge, so we may better divide our time and give selfl essly of the mysteries of our Order.

Brothers in attendance, listed in order from left to right; Front row: Robert Brown, Bruce Carrier, candidates Basem ”Ben” Ibrahim Amin and Edward William Reuther lll, Gene Hawes, Gary Breylinger, Harold Gimmel, Dales Smith, Jim Pierce. Second row: Carl Martin, MEGHP Nelson Bland, Jim Jenson, PMWGM Alan “Doc” Harkins, Roger Benson, EGW Beau Bledsoe, Eldon Phillips. Third row: (UNK), Ray Dedic, REGC Phil Blaisdell. -George Washington Conclave in Great Falls

he Great Falls Chapter of Royal Arch Masons have Tan annual event during the month of February. The Saturday closest to George Washington’s birthday is set aside for the GEORGE WASHINGTON CONCLAVE. This year it will be Saturday February 21 with registration set at 8 AM and the degree work to start at 9 AM. You can get pre-registration forms by contacting Alan Frohberg the High Priest of the Chapter. Lewistown will do the Mark Master; Helena the Past Master; Great Falls the Most Excellent Master; and Calgary York Rite College the Royal Arch Degree. Also to be noted is the Big Sky York Rite College will meet on Friday at 1:30 following a lunch at noon. For more info call Keith Head.

Montana Masonic News General Information and Submissions he Montana Masonic News is an offi cial should be typed, double-spaced and preferably Editor: Montana Masonic News publication of the Ancient Free accompanied by a computer disk in neutral PC format PO Box 1158, Helena, Montana 59624 Tand Accepted Masons of Montana and the (MSWord preferred with formatting off) or via e-mail or e-mail to [email protected] Montana Masonic Foundation Corporation. Unless to: [email protected] . Please provide full given name, Lodge or affi liation and otherwise noted, articles appearing in this publication While we often state when articles are due for the US Mailing address. express only the private opinion or assertions of next issue, in order to insure there is space available the writer, and do not necessarily refl ect the offi cial for your article please submit it well before the due Article and Photo submissions: position of the Grand Lodge. The jurisdiction speaks date. We don’t send out reminders or solicitations for Articles: pieces submitted should be typed, double- only through the Grand Master and the Executive articles. spaced and preferably accompanied by a computer Board, when attested to as offi cial, in writing, by the Articles are subject to editing and, when published, disk in neutral PC format (MSWord preferred with Grand Secretary. become the property of the Grand Lodge AF&AM formatting off.) The editorial staff invites contributions in the form of Montana. No compensation is allowed for any Photo: Black and White or color; preferably of informative articles, reports, news and other timely articles, photographs, or other materials submitted accompanied by a computer disk with photo image in information (of about 500 to 1000 words in length) for publication. Permission to reprint articles will be .jpg , .bmp , or .tif . Include who took the photo, when that broadly relate to Montana Masonry, Masonic granted upon written request; to the Editor from and where. Include a note with permission to print the law, lore, customs, history, symbolism, philosophy, recognized Masonic Publications and others. When photo. responsibility of membership, etiquette, current reprinted the articles should note: “Reprinted with Sponsors: Anyone interested in sponsoring in the events, and/or general public interest. When possible, permission of the Montana Masonic News.” Please paper will need to contact the Editor. photographs that illustrate these informative articles direct all correspondence and changes of address to: should accompany the submission. Pieces submitted MONTANA MASONIC NEWS FEBRUARY 2009 3 Glasgow: “The Hi-Line in ‘09” 143rd Annual Communication ots of fresh air, open spaces, farm land, wind, hotel. The lunches will be served at the High School And yes, there are things to do and see in Glasgow Indian Reservations, two lane highway (nod cafeteria and will require that tickets are presold. The and the immediate area. The local arrangements Lto 4 for 2), four wheelers, the center of the High School is one fl oor and is handicapped accessible. team will have information in the welcome bags and universe. For most of us it’s fairly long drive, BUT the The Glasgow High School and grounds are designated as information will be in the Monthly Bulletin and the drive is going to be worth the amenities and hospitality. a No Smoking area. Montana Masonic News. The 143 Annual Communication will be held on June Food – a favorite subject of mine and most other The room rates for the Cottonwood will between 25, 26 and 27, 2009 in the hospitality town of eastern Masons is going to be a culinary delight. All meals will $70.00 and $85.00. The meal costs will be similar or Montana “Glasgow”. The Glasgow session is going to be served or catered by the Cottonwood Inn and less than they have been for the last couple sessions. As be a stupendous event! The main session hotel is the the owner is going to personally oversee the food soon as this information is available we will get it out to Cottonwood Inn their facilities are wonderful and the preparation and assured us that there will be ample you. For general registration rooms are now blocked staff gracious and accommodating. The Cottonwood Inn staffi ng to handle us. Tickets are a must and we really and available on a fi rst come fi rst serve basis at the also has several RV spots adjacent to the hotel. Ninety need to stress the presale of tickets. There will be Cottonwood Inn for general registration by telling them percent of the hotel will be dedicated to the Masons a breakfast buffet Friday and Saturday morning. The you are with the “Masons”. of Montana. At this time the Vesper service is planned lunches on Friday and Saturday will be prepared meals Cottonwood Inn: Telephone 406 228-8213, Fax 228- to be conducted outdoors on the terrace. The hotel and will be served in the High School cafeteria which is 8248 is two fl oors it does not have an elevator however is located just a matter of a few feet from the auditorium. Plan to attend the 143rd Session in Glasgow and be handicapped accessible. This is a non-smoking hotel. The Grand Master’s banquet and the Master Masons part of this historic and exciting session. See you there! The actual session will be held at the Glasgow High banquet on Friday will be held in the convention center Alternate Hotels: La Casa Hotel; Star Lodge Motel; or School (go Scotties!) which is a mile or so from the at the Cottonwood Inn. Campbell Lodge.

GRAND LODGE AF & AM of MONTANA Robert A. Coleman, Most Worshipful Grand Master

PRE-REGISTRATION 143rd Annual Communication June 25, 26, & 27, 2008 Glasgow, Montana Mail this Form to 143rd Grand Communication PO Box 1158 Helena, MT 59624-1158

Registration must be POSTMARKED prior to June 1, 2009

PLEASE TYPE OR PRINT (Name Badge Will Be Completed From This Information) NAME:______(Full Given Name) LODGE: ______LODGE #:______MAILING ADDRESS:______CITY:______STATE:______ZIP:______TELEPHONE:______E-MAIL:______TITLE (Offi ce, Station, i.e., WM,PM):______Accompanied by (Ladies name):______Please complete the top section and mail it in even if you do not plan to purchase any meals. No Tickets Will Be Available After 1 June 2009 Friday June 26, 2009 Breakfast Buffet (Everyone Welcome) No.____ @ $8.00 = $ ______Men’s Luncheon (associated sandwiches)No.____ @ $8.00 = $______Ladies Luncheon & Tour No.____ @ $15.00 = $______Delegates/Master Masons Banquet No.____ @ $20.00 = $______Top Sirloin Dietary Alternative

Saturday June 27, 2009 Buffet Breakfast (Everyone Welcome) No.____ @ $12.00 = $______Men’s Luncheon (Hot Turkey sandwich) No.____ @ $8.00 = $______Reception for New Grand Master No.____ @ $10.00 = $______ACTIVITY AMOUNT: $______Payment for Activities: Check Enclosed#______Please make checks payable to: 143rd Annual Communication Credit Card (Master Card or Visa Only):______Expires:______

SIGNATURE:______Registration and Credentials will be at the Cottonwood Inn on Thursday Noon to 5 p.m., and at the Glasgow High School starting at 7 a.m. on Friday. 4 MONTANA MASONIC NEWS FEBRUARY 2009 143rd Annual Communication Session Location Session events will be at the Glasgow High School, 1 Scottie Pride Drive and the Cottonwood Inn, 45 1st Ave NE RV Parking is available adjacent to the Cottonwood Inn: $28.00 to $30.00

HOTEL RESERVATIONS Please make your reservations from one of the Hotels listed below, prior to 1 June 2009.

Cottonwood Inn La Casa Motel Star Lodge Motel Campbell Lodge 45 1st Ave NE (406) 228-8213 238 1st Ave N (406) 228-9311 1023 US Highway 2 W 406) 228-2494 534 3rd Ave (406) 228-9328 Room Rate: $77.00 to $85.00+tax Room Rate: Room Rate: Room Rate:

TENTATIVE AGENDA

THURSDAY, JUNE 25, 2009 SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2009 5:30 pm Vespers at Cottonwood Inn 7:00 am Breakfast 8:30 am Call to Labor, Call to order FRIDAY, JUNE 26, 2009 Guest Speaker: Tom Jackson, Past Grand Secretary-Pennsylvania 9:00 am Public Opening LEGISLATION 10:00 am FORMAL OPENING OF GRAND LODGE 11:55am Grand Lodge call from Labor to Refreshment Election of Grand Offi cers- 12 Noon Men’s Luncheon – Glasgow High School Committee Reports 12 Noon PGM Lunch – Glasgow High School 12 Noon Men’s Luncheon –Glasgow High School 1:15 pm Grand Lodge Refreshment to Labor Ladies Luncheon – Cottonwood Inn 4:00 pm Formal Closing of 143rd Annual Communication 1:15 pm Grand Lodge Refreshment to Labor 5:00 p.m. PUBLIC INSTALLATION Glasgow High School 4:30 pm Grand Lodge call from Labor to Refreshment Reception for new Grand Master and Grand Offi cers 6:00 pm No Host Fellowship – Cottonwood Inn 7:00 pm Master Masons Banquet – Cottonwood Inn Guest Speaker: Tom Jackson, Past Grand Secretary-Pennsylvania Hall of Fame Awards, Distinguished Service Awards, Secretary of the Year Award

Public Installation will follow immediately following the closing of Grand Lodge. All Masons, Ladies, families and friends are invited. Reception at Glasgow High School Guest Speaker for Session Brother Thomas W. Jackson

uring the Annual Communication of the Grand tion in Glasgow. the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, and those titles pale in DLodge of Utah in Salt Lake City, MW Brother We have the rare opportunity to hear and speak with comparison with is insight into Freemasonry today. His Robert Coleman, RW Brother one of the most prominent presentation will include insight on world Freemasonry Tom Lund and RW Brother Reid champions of modern Masonry, in general and North American Freemasonry in particu- Gardiner had the opportunity to right Worshipful Tom Jack- lar. arrange for the guest speaker for son. As Masonic resumes go, the 143rd Annual Communication. Br. Jackson's takes 4 pages to We are pleased to announce that catalog his achievements, and I Brother Thomas W. Jackson, RW assure you it is not a list of lofty Past Grand Secretary of the Grand titles and dues cards. Lodge of Pennsylvania, and Execu- Presently, he is the Secre- tive Secretary of the World Con- tary of the World Conference ference of Masonic Grand Lodges, of Masonic Grand Lodges and has agreed to be our guest speaker formerly the Grand Secretary of at the 143rd Annual Communica-

The Lewis Jewel Grand Master Bob Coleman presents the Lewis Jewel to W. Bro Gordon Crandell, Grand Historian MONTANA MASONIC NEWS FEBRUARY 2009 5 The Lewis Jewel Application Form Grand Lodge AF&AM of Montana PO Box 1158 Helena, Montana 59624-1158

I, ______, would like to apply for a Lewis Jewel.

The Lewis Jewel may be worn by a Mason, if, at the time of his Initiation, his father was a Mason in good standing. The initiate of a deceased father in good standing at the time of his death would also qualify.

The following information is provided for the Lodge Secretary and the engraver (Please print clearly): Father’s name: First, M.I., Last: ______Date of Father’s MM Degree (3rd Degree): ______Father’s Lodge, Number, Jurisdiction: ______

Son’s Name: First, M.I., Last: ______Date of Son’s MM Degree (3rd Degree): ______Name of Son’s Lodge: ______Location of Lodge: ______Name of Secretary of Lodge (Please print): ______Address of Secretary: (Street) ______(City, State) ______(Zip Code) ______

I have investigated and verify the names and dates as stated above are correct. I also verify that the father was a Mason in good standing at the time of the son’s Initiation. Instructions to Lodge Secretary: If father was not a member of your Lodge, please contact the Grand Secretary’s Offi ce at (406) 442-7774 for verifi cation of date and status. Attest: Signature of Secretary: ______

Forward Application & check for $30.00 to: Ship To Name and Address: Lewis Jewel ______PO Box 1158 Helena, MT 59624-1158 ______

Applied Freemasonry ave you ever, while listening to the Craft’s ritual, Do you read Masonic periodicals and books? How many ill and indisposed of brethren have you Hasked yourself any of the following profound visited? questions? Have you studied the ritual itself? What is the meaning of these mystic symbols, How many brethren have you assisted in attending rites and ritual? What have you taught others? lodge? What does life mean? We are to subdue our passions. What is the human soul? Have you contributed to a Masonic or community If there are answers, where will the truth be Has your understanding and appreciation of our charity? found, and if it be within the reach of living ritual enabled you to apply its lessons in your daily creatures, what other goal is worth the life? In contemplating the above, consider whether you struggle? truly appreciate the eternal paradox that, although The answers can all be found in the ritual itself. Have Do you exemplify the four cardinal virtues so that the “word” is lost yet it is ever with us. The light that you thought about them, remembering that there are others notice behaviour changes in you? illumines the distant horizon shines in our hearts. That many interpretations and applications. We are to improve ourselves. which we seek lives in our souls. For example the question: How have you made yourself a better man? Jack R. Levitt What came you here to do? We come to learn. 6 MONTANA MASONIC NEWS FEBRUARY 2009 True Traveler from the East Lafayette Lodge No. 241

Above: Grand Masters at Lafayette Lodge No. 241, International Night. Pictured above from left to right: Douglas E. Tucker, MB-Washington; Kenneth B. Anthony, GM- PHA of Washington; Robert Richmond, GM-Oregon; R. Glenn Allen, GM-British Columbia; Richard Kaiser, GM-Idaho; Robert “Center of the Universe” Coleman, GM-Montana; Glenn A. Cook, GM-Utah and Larry L. Adamson, GM-California. Right: Grand Master Coleman signing the Lafayette Lodge Bible. Morning Star No. 5 On January 14th MWGM Coleman conducted his offi cial visit to Morning Star Lodge NO. 5, Helena.

Grand Master Presents Check to the Masonic Home ach year, the Grand Master sends out an appeal to the members of the Craft asking them to support a specifi c project or program through additional contributions to the Lodge. This year MWGM Coleman’s Eappeal was for the Masonic Home and the Masonic Museum.

On January 14th the Grand Master presented a check for almost $5000 to W. Bro Ed Stede, representing the Masonic Home. Brother Stede thanked Grand Master Coleman and the Craft for their continuing support and concern for the Masonic Home and the services that the Home provides to our aging brethern and their families, and to the others who now call it Home.

Brother Ed noted the MW Bro. Coleman has been extremely supportive of the Masonic Home. Brother Ed thanked him several times for including the Masonic Home in his appeal.

From left to right: MWGM Bob Coleman and Ed Stede, President of the Masonic Home Board of Trustees.

Grand Lodge of Utah

WGM Bob Coleman attended the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge MF&AM of Utah, January 30 and 31, 2009 in Salt Lake City, Utah, accompanied by RWDGM Tom Lund and RW Grand Secretary Reid Gardiner. The Grand Lodge AF& AM of Montana Charted one of the three lodges that formed the Grand Lodge of Utah. MWGM Coleman at the sesquetennial of the Grand Lodge of Utah MONTANA MASONIC NEWS FEBRUARY 2009 7 True Traveler from the East Bigfork Lodge NO. 150 Sts John Observance n Jan 13th, MWGM Coleman attended the Feast Ponemah No. 63, Hot Springs No. 150, Ruby No. 36, Also in attendance were MWPGM Alan Harkins, Oof Sts John at Bigfork Lodge No. 150. W. Brother Helena No.3, Loyalty No. 121. W. Bro. L.D. Gross MWPGM Bill Brass, RW. Brother Martin Olsson and Lawrence Benke conducted the table lodge with the presented the educational program. MWGM Coleman RW. Brother Reid Gardiner. fi fty fi ve in attendance represented the following lodges: presented his Sts. John message. Bigfork No. 150, Kalispell No. 42, Trinity No. 152, Polson No. 78, Whitefi sh No. 64, Columbia Falls No. 89, Mission Valley No. 78,

NNewew MMontanaontana 5500 YYearear PPinin e’re all familiar with 50 year awards he is likely to be around 50 years later, and he needs few organizations a man will join as a young man given by our Grand Lodge through the to live for 50 years after receiving his third degree. Plus and remain a member of it for the rest of his life: Wrecipients individual Lodge. The 50-Year time that a member may Freemasonry is one of pin has become a signifi cant landmark in the lives of have been suspended for them. many Masons, as it signifi es a half-century of service to non-payment of dues does There are very few organizations a man These old men, the fraternity. not count toward the fi fty will join as a young man and remain these older brothers Most of you by now have seen the newly re- years. a member of it for the rest of his life: come to Lodge; designed Montana 50 Year Pin. This is only the second Not all Masons were participate in degree 50 year design in 143 years in Montana. The new pin made Masons in their 20’s Freemasonry is one of them work; hold offi ces; and came about for many reasons which included many and unfortunately not all can be found doing complaints that the detail was to hard to see and read Masons live for 50 years untold things in and and the original dies had become overly worn. Several after their third degree. However most Masons do around the their Lodge or an appendant body. These months ago Reid Gardiner the Grand Secretary remain Masons for the rest of their lives. brothers were young men too when they became contacted Brian During our members and they love Freemasonry as much or Murphy the W. lifetime most more today as they did then. So if you want to fall in Grand Sword of us will be love with something that you can love and be active in Bearer who is members for the rest of your life, don’t let the grey hair of these a graphic artist. of many older Freemasons dissuade you - look at it as a goal Brother Brian organizations. In for to achieve. designed this some of these pin with an eye organizations we both on the past may be active and the future. members, maybe This is the offi cers, and in design that they others we will agreed upon and be participants we know that or maybe just those brothers dues payers receiving this and newsletter new 50 Year readers. There pin will enjoy are very and wear it with pride. In order for a Brother to Above: New 50 year pin; left: Brian get a 50 year award a couple of things are necessary: Murphy, W. Grand Sword Bearer and he needs to have joined at a young enough age where graphic artist. 8 MONTANA MASONIC NEWS FEBRUARY 2009 Hands of the Workman Julian Knight Grand Master 1876-1877

W Brother Julian M. Knight was born on extravagance, but I do think that our Lodge great pleasure when circumstances prevent his November 12, 1838 at Girard, Erie County, rooms should be comfortably furnished, and attending a meeting. If the fi nancial condition MPennsylvania. He was Initiated on March well warmed, well lighted, and well ventilated. of the Lodge will permit the expense, there is 16, 1867, Passed April 10, 1867 and Raised on April They should be made so cheerful and attractive nothing that will contribute more toward the 13, 1867 in Montana Lodge No. 2, in Virginia City. He -such a pleasant place to spend an evening, enjoyment of the members than a good library; served as Grand Treasurer in 1869 and was elected that a brother will feel that he is deprived of a and our leisure moments can be employed to no as Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in better advantage than by reading good books. Montana in 1876. He died on May 31, 1911. Brethren, let us make every effort to render During the time period he was serving the our Lodge rooms more attractive.” Temperance movement was in full swing. The In January 1881, at Virginia City, Montana, Elling, following resolution was formed by WMGM Knight Knight and Company took over the inventory whereby, the resolution asserted that the vices of of Patrick Largey (formerly of Creighton’s Stone intemperance: gambling, licentiousness or profanity Block) and opened their new hardware store in were “virtual high treason” to the tenets of Masonry. the . They were located there “Resolved, That it is the determined sense for thirty-four years. They not only fi lled the fi rst of this Grand Lodge that the indulgence fl oor and basement with retail goods, but also in the vices of intemperance, gambling, had a large two-story warehouse located a block licentiousness, or profanity, or either of south of the store. Elling and Knight had various them, by Masons in the Jurisdiction, should partners in the fi rm, including Patrick Walsh, and be promptly suppressed by the subordinate S. P. Buford; however Julian M. Knight was always lodges; and it is enjoined as a constant and the manager. After his death in 1911, the store special duty of Masons to counsel, caution continued for a short time under the name “Elling and admonish the Craft in this respect, and in Hardware Store. the case of willful persistence the lodges shall punish those found guilty of such indulgence by the infl iction of adequate penalties.”

Today much of what we know of MW Bro. Knight can be seen through his Grand Master’s Address. One example is his view on Lodge appearances: “Every Lodge should collect suffi cient dues from its members to support itself in a creditable manner. It is not my intention to advocate Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association Greetings Brothers, public by making ourselves visible by taking part in I am one of the founding / Charter members of the parades and charity/community events. Through these Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association, Montana interactions, individuals can see the Masonic infl uence Grand Chapter and I would like to take a moment to in our patches and the gentleman wearing them tell you all a bit about this International Masonic Support which generally brings results in a conversation about Association. Masonry. Since its inception in Montana, we have raised It is called the “Widows 6 new brothers as a result of these Sons” in honor of our conversations and increased many fi rst Grand Master, Hiram others’ interest in Masonry. Today, Abif. We are a Masonic the Montana Grand Chapter has 28 Sons or if you wish to become a Widows Son, please Riders Association, members who are scattered all across contact me at the address listed below. You can start an not a motorcycle club our state. There is a chance there is a Associate Chapter of Widows Sons in your own area and we are made up of Widows Son in your Lodge. with only 4 Brothers, so give it some thought. Master Masons who ride, In July of 2006 the Montana Grand Thank you for your time and remember to meet on or have an interest in, Chapter was started and is based out the Level, and part upon the Square. motorcycles. of the Laurel area, so we are still fairly Fraternally, The purpose of the young but we are growing. The more Dan Koch Jr. PM Widows Sons is to brothers we can get to help spread the Corinthian Lodge #72 AF & AM encourage Master Masons word that Masonry in Montana is alive Carbon Chapter #20 RAM (Life member) to stay active and support and well, the better and you can have Adoniram Council #8 their home lodge, to fun doing it also. Aldemar Commandery #5 promote Masonry to In the summer of 2008, Montana Bannack Historical Lodge #3-7-77 (Life Member) other riders and the public joined with our Brothers from Canada Sec/Trea: Widows Sons MT Grand Chapter and to contribute to the and started an Annual North/South Contact: relief of poor distressed Master Masons, their widows Rally to help spread the cement of brotherly love and Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association of Montana, st and orphans. friendship. The 1 year was held in Lewistown. This Grand Chapter. The Widows Sons are not affi liated with any Blue summer we will travel to Crows Nest Pass near Alberta. Attn: Dan Koch Jr. Lodge or Grand Lodge; we are a Masonic Support We will have a great time and there is always room for P.O. Box 254 Association. We strive to introduce Masonry to the one more on the road. Laurel, Mt. 59044 If you would like more information about the Widows E-mail: [email protected] MONTANA MASONIC NEWS FEBRUARY 2009 9 OES Lap Robes for Veterans

embers and offi cers of the Lily MOf the Valley Chapter No. 4 of the Order of the Eastern Star, at the request of the Worthy Matron, Submission Deadline for Florence Groth, worked together to make it possible to submit lap robes April 2009 to the veterans at Fort Harrison Montana Masonic News VA Medical Center and the Eastern is PRIOR to March 15, Montana Veteran’s Center in Glendive in time for Christmas. 2009 In all, twelve robes were sent to (see page 2 for details) the Eastern Montana Hospital and eighteen were delivered to Fort From left to right: Petty Drummond, PGM; Debbie Harrison. Campell, PM; and Chuck Curtis, WP

Celestial Lodge

October, November, December

My Brethren, the roll of the workmen has been called, and one more Master Mason has not answered to his name, He has laid down the working tools of the Craft and with them he has left that mortal part for which he no longer has use. His labours here below have taught him to divest his heart and conscience of the vices and superfl uities of life, thereby fi tting his mind as a living stone for that spiritual building—that house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. Strengthened in his labours hereby faith in God, and, confi dent of expectation of immortality, he has sought admission to the Celestial Lodge above. Author unknown

Ellis L. Fuhrman Missoula No. 13 4/30/2008 Gaylord R. Easton Corinthian No. 72 01/01 Glen H. Boden Choteau No. 44 12/02/2005 Robert E. Evans Deer Lodge No. 14 10/24/2008 M. Ray Finley Corinthian No. 72 11/27/2008 Floyd Shepard Ottawa No. 51 11/23/2008 Steve Palmer Deer Lodge No. 14 09/30/2008 Charles E. Fink Corinthian No. 72 11/09/2008 Thomas K Hopgood Ottawa No. 51 01/01/2007 Raymond Jordan Bozeman No. 18 10/22/2008 Edgar D. Rexroat Three Forks No. 73 10/21/2008 Harrison K. Strong Ottawa No. 51 04/25/2008 Robert Ellerd Bozeman No. 18 11/06/2008 John E. Fulkerson Lower Yellowstone No. 90 Maruice G. Hardie Lincoln No. 157 01/01/2009 Fred C. Phippen Butte No. 22 11/10/2008 10/25/2008 Floyd C. Shepherd Ottawa No. 51 11/22/2008 Franklin D. Kneebone Butte No. 22 08/01/2008 Wayne E. Erfl e Rapelje No. 122 10/16/2008 Martin C. Jacobson Ottawa No. 51 07/24/2008 Sydney A. Saetre Butte No. 22 10/30/2008 Christopher Mangen Powder River No. 135 Maynard R. Finley Corinthian No. 72 11/27/2008 Sidney B. Peyton, Jr. Butte No. 22 10/ /2008 11/22/2008 Charles Madler, Jr Sandstone No. 84 12/16/2008 Willis A. Woollett Mount Moriah No. 24 10/31/2008 Leslie Dahl Pryor Mountain No. 151 06/10/2008 John D. Lea Judith No. 86 12/11/2008 Leonel Lewis Mount Moriah No. 24 11/02/2008 Roy M. Duff Whitefi sh No. 64 11/14/2008 Edward Burns Lower Yellowstone No. 90 12/06/2008 William R. Anderson Benton No. 25 11/ /2008 Byron E. Dodd Missoula No. 13 11/30/2008 Frederick L. O’Neil Treasurer No. 95 12/17/2008 Herbert R. Pasha Benton No. 25 09/04/2008 Gerald Reh Missoula No. 13 2/16/2005 Harry E. Swain Rapelje No. 122 11/09/2008 Ian A. Elliot Yellowstone No. 26 03/29/2008 George G. Selleck Missoula No. 13 12/14/2002 Victor L. Bersch Delta No. 128 12/25/2008 Mark A. Forman Yellowstone No. 26 03/02/2008 Leonel Lewis Mount Moriah No. 24 11/02/2008 William W. Scothern Huntley Project No. 144 Wayne M. Olson Yellowstone No. 26 07/24/2008 Mortimer J. Lott, Jr Westgate No 27 12/12/2008 12/02/2008 Floyd F. Sumner Livingston No. 32 10/10/2008 William M. Rogers Ashlar No. 29 12/16/2008 Franklin C. Crain Bigfork No. 150 1 1/04/2008 Robert J. Vining Cascade No. 34 11/15/2008 John G. Weber Ashlar No. 29 03/23/2008 Owen A. Rumley Bigfork No. 150 12/16/2008 Neil S. Trosper Cascade No. 34 11/26/2008 Clarence J. VanFassen Acacia No. 33 12/13/2008 William S. Peterson Trinity No. 152 12/14/2008 John C. Gilpatrick Friendship No. 37 09/01/2008 Clarence L. Hogan, Jr Cascade No. 34 11/ /2008 Alan L. Gordon Hot Springs No. 153 12/25/2008 John L. Brown Victor No. 43 10/29/2008 Milfred D. Koliha Friendship No. 37 12/7/2008 Jack Flook Ottawa No. 51 11/27/2008 Dean Curtis Sheehan Hiram No. 52 09/28/2008 If you are aware of a fellow brother who has passed away, please Jess C. Armitage Montanan No. 2 11/25/2008 email the information to [email protected] or Donald K. Vaupel Havre No. 55 8/15/2005 complete this form and mail to: Howard Elvrom Havre No. 55 09/14/2008 Thomas W. Manaras Havre No. 55 10/14/2008 Montana Grand Lodge PO Box 1158 Helena, MT 59624. Calvin F. Brown Havre No. 55 UNK Deceased: ______Charles D. Frye Havre No. 55 UNK Lodge: ______10 MONTANA MASONIC NEWS FEBRUARY 2009 50 Year Members August, September, October & November 2008 Please note that recent deaths and dimits from membership may not be refl ected in this listing. Any brother with a question about his membership status should contact his lodge secretary.

October January Ben G. Gates, Jr No. 13 Feb 10 Arnold G. Blair No. 7 Feb 12 Dwaine W. Beckman No. 31 Oct 30 Eugene Richardson No. 72 Jan 2 Perry C. Brackett No. 29 Feb 13 Byron Tressler No. 46 Jan 9 Earl W. Chamberlain No. 69 Feb 13 December Gibson G. Goodman No. 3 Jan 17 Peter E. Decker No. 29 Feb 13 Charles Corn No. 110 Jan 20 George Dengel No. 98 Dec 9 Ralph C. Challender No. 18 Feb 19 Warren Russell No. 32 Jan 24 Howard Long No. 49 Dec 17 Dean Swank No. 150 Feb 19 Darcy G. DeLong No. 33 Feb 24 Tobe Rodewald No. 92 Dec 17 February Milton Hansen No. 49 Dec 18 William J. Lambeth No. 59 Feb 25 George B. Harbison No. 13 Feb 28 Glyndale W. Deem No. 91 Feb 4 Norman E. Witherbee No. 55 Feb 5 Busy Night for Whitefish W. Brother Richard Haworth Receives Lodge #64 50 Year Award uesday, November 11, PM Don Doyle was Thonored with the 50 year program and after n October 21, 2008 during a joint meeting of the program, WM Frank Noble presented PM OGolden Eagle Lodge No. 66 and Corinthian Lodge Doyle with his 50 year pin. PM Doyle was Master of No. 72, MW Past Grand Master Gerald Shay presented Whitefi sh Lodge 1964-1965. the Montana 50 Year Award to W. Brother Richard Later in the evening MWPGM Doc Harkins Haworth, Instructor of Golden Eagle No. 66. presented PM Phil What made Blaisdel with his this presentation PM apron. The even more Lodge rewards special was that each PM with an in 1988 Grand apron upon the Master Shay completion of his presented the term as WM. 50 Year Award to Bro. Richard’s father Bro. Chet Haworth.

Acacia Lodge No. 33 Moved? Presents 50 Year Let us know your new address: Award Name:______OLD WM Ed Eck (right) presents the Montana 50 Year Award to W. Brother Marvin N. Day. Address:______City/St/Zip:______

NEW Address:______City/St/Zip______

Attention Snow Birds

If you are one of those who go south (or elsewhere) for the winter, you will need to make arrangements to have your copy of the Montana Masonic News forwarded too extensive to keep changing addresses to you from the Post Offi ce or by a friend. back and forth. You will be allowed only The Montana Masonic News mail list is one US Mail address. MONTANA MASONIC NEWS FEBRUARY 2009 11 Pondera Lodge sponsors Geography Bee uring an awards ceremony held at the Conrad by Pondera Lodge #80 in Conrad. Along with this event, DMiddle School on January 30, the Worshipful Pondera Lodge sponsors a second Geography Bee in Our Vision Master of Pondera Lodge #80, Reid Stuart, presented Valier, the County wide Spelling Bee, helps with travel The Masons of Montana will be the top three winners of the 2009 Geography Bee with to State competitions and at times presents the public recognized as a relevant and respected a cash award and a certifi cate. From left to right are: schools in the county with books and video tapes on the Bro Everett Snortland, Committee Chairman, Trent subjects of American history and government. These Fraternity, committed to attracting, Pearson, second projects are very developing and retaining all men of high place, Kyle Dyrud, well received by the quality who strive for self improvement fi rst place, McK- students, teachers, ayla Botsford, third parents and commu- and the opportunity to make a positive place and Reid nities. difference in their community, and in the Stuart, Worship- lives of those around them. ful Master. This is one of several Our Mission continuing public Freemasonry in Montana strives to education activities satisfy our members as we teach moral sponsored entirely standards, and support a way of life that promotes fellowship, brotherhood, and self-improvement through excellence in leadership, education, family, charity, and community involvement.

Above: fi rst, second and third place students winners for the Conrad Public School 2009 Geography Bee.

Thank You MMN Sponsors

We’d like to “Thank” our sponsors for their continued support of the Montana Masonic News. If you would like to help sponsor the MMN please contact Reid Gardiner at [email protected] or call the Grand Lodge.

Coldwell Banker Western States Associates 115 Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840(406) 363-1250

Tom Lund Larry Lund Tom: (406) 363-8054 E-mail [email protected] Ph: 406-587-7949 Larry : (406) 363-8053 E-mail [email protected] 12 MONTANA MASONIC NEWS FEBRUARY 2009 Calendar of Events February 2009

February is Americanism Month Feb 20-21 George Washington Convocation, York Rite @ Feb 1 Kick off for annual Bikes for Books program building in Great Falls. Feb 4 Legislative Night, Helena Feb 26 Resolutions due to Grand Lodge Feb 6-8 Grand Lodge of Feb 28 Beartooth District Lodge of Instruction, Billings ( Feb 14-18 Grand Master’s & Grand Secretaries of North America Conference Center) (Noon to 4pm)

March 2009

March 14 OES, Idaho-Montana Exchange, Polson March 20 Joint Billings area meeting with GM March 15 Annual Returns due to Grand Lodge March 20-21 Grand Lodge of New Mexico

April 2009

April 1 Hall of Fame Nominations due prior to 1 April April 17-18 Grand Lodge of Hawaii April 1 Lodge Elections No Earlier than 1 April; No Later than 1st regular April 22 PM’s Night Hiram Lodge, Forsyth, 6pm meeting in April 4 GLO Quarterly Meeting April 24 Joint Meeting Libby, Troy, Eureka with GM April 4 Daughters of the Nile installation - Helena April 25 53rd International Meeting, Creston BC & Bonners Ferry ID April 8 Easter Tableaux, Helena, Helen Valley Scottish Rite

Those Who Served Military Service Recognition

Brothers: Unless you know that your military history (this is optional) has been sent into the Grand Lodge offi ce, please complete the following and mail it in to the Grand Lodge. The May 2009 issue will list those Montana Masons who have served in the military. We will need the following information:

Name:______

Mail to: Lodge/lodge number:______Montana Masonic News Branch of service:______PO Box 1158 Helena, MT 59624-1158 Rank/rate:______or email to: Theater of operation:[email protected]

Masons With Ink

n the last two decades there has been a greater aceptance of tattooing in Ithe mainstream population and among both genders. Masons have accepted this trend and indeed some of them are very proud wearers of tattoos designed to display their pride of membership in the Masonic fraternity. Their “ink” ranges from small Square & Compass to large colorful displays. The Montana Masonic News would like to recognize our “inked” Brothers by asking Montana Masons to share photos of their tat’s. We will try to show as many as possible in a future issue of the Montana Masonic News. Please send either quality color photos or preferably digital images in a .jpg format. They can be mailed to: Montana Masonic News, PO Box 1158, Helena, MT 59624-1158 or email to: [email protected].