Vol. 39 No. 2 MAY 2008

INSIDE: Wisconsin’s DYNAMIC Duo

John Barth, CEO, Johnson Controls CONTRIBUTORS Volume 39, Number Two In Every Issue Message from the 3 Sovereign Grand Commander 14 32° Masonic Learning Centers Steven R. Pekock, 32°, Stephen R. Greenberg, Catherine C. Swanson Robert A. Domingue, is director of development for 33°, is chairman of the is the archivst at the Van secretary for St. Matthew’s 15 Word Math the Supreme Council, 33°, speakers bureau for the Gorden-Williams Library. Lodge, Andover, MA, and AASR, NMJ, USA. Grand Lodge of Illinois, editor of The Philatelic and a member of the Valley Freemason. Notes from the of Chicago. 18 Scottish Rite Journal Other Contributors: Brothers on the Net Aimee E. Newell, is the curator of collections at the National Heritage Museum, located at Supreme Council headquarters in 19 Lexington, MA. William G. Ziemer, is the director of operations for the 32° Masonic Learning Centers for Children, Inc. Thomas W. Jackson, 33°, was formerly Grand Secretary for the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. He is Executive Secretary for The Stamp Act the World Conference of Masonic Grand Lodges. Leigh E. Morris, works in corporate communications for a major utility 21 company. He is a member of the Valleys of Milwaukee and Springfield, IL. S. Brent Morris, 33°, is the editor of The Scottish Rite Journal, a publication of the Southern Jurisdiction, USA, located at Washington, DC. 22 Book Nook 24 HealthWise IN THIS ISSUE 25 Scottish Rite Charities 26 Views from the Past Working Together Sharing Treasures 27 Quotables 4 By Aimee E. Newell 28 Today’s Family 29 More Than Just Books 30 Readers Respond 31 Et cetera, et cetera, etc.

Focus on Wisconsin EDITOR Alan E. Foulds, 32° By Alan E. Foulds, 32° GRAPHIC DESIGNER 8 Beth E. McSweeney PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Sonja B. Faiola MEDIA ADVISORY COMMITTEE William L. McCarrier, 33°, chairman Richard V.Travis, 33° William Fox Jr., 33° Eric Ginette, 33° SUPREME COUNCIL, 33° Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, U.S.A. Moon Lodges SOVEREIGN GRAND COMMANDER Shedding light on old traditions. John Wm. McNaughton, 33° THE NORTHERN LIGHT (ISSN 1088-4416) is published quarterly By Stephen R. Greenberg, 33° in February, May, August, and November by the Supreme Council, 33°, 16 Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite,Northern Masonic Jurisdiction,U.S.A., as the official publication. Printed in U.S.A. Periodicals postage paid at Boston, MA, and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Northern Light,PO Box Geographic 519, Lexington, MA 02420-0519. 13 Copyright © 2008 by Trustees of the Supreme Council of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry for the Northern Masonic Ju- Information 20 OneCause risdiction, U.S.A. Mailing Address: Systems PO Box 519, Lexington, MA 02420-0519 Editorial Office: 33 Marrett Road (Route 2A), Lexington, MA 02421 On the cover: John Barth, highlighted in 781-862-4410 • Fax: 781-863-1833 “Focus on Wisconsin,” see page 8. email: [email protected] Internet: www.ScottishRiteOnline.org 2 May 2008 / The Northern Light John Wm. McNaughton, 33º

The True Masonic ‘Secret’

“Improving ourselves and reaching out”

A rare collection of Masonic antiquity came onto 275-year-old sign from the Bunch of Grapes Tavern the open market recently. After careful scrutiny, the where the First Lodge met. These items certainly staff at our National Heritage Museum in Lexington show our antiquity but do not reveal “secret” clues. selected a few items that fit into the museum’s col- There is, however, a message there for the mu- lection, but they passed on many others. seum visitor. A fraternity that attracted men some As the antiques were being reviewed, I found my- 300 years ago continues to attract men today. It is self reflecting on the “National Treasure” movie that not the antiquity of the organization, although we can attempted to portray long-lost secret treasures be proud of our heritage. It is not the objects that re- buried beneath the streets of New York City. My mind main from previous generations, although it is rather then wandered to Dan Brown’s novel, The DaVinci amazing that so much has been retained. It is not the Code, where secret clues led the characters to fact that the ritual has remained relatively unchanged Roslyn Chapel to “find” the Holy Grail. over the years. The key word in both instances is “secret.” It leads As careful as we might examine our degree rituals, the non-Mason to believe that the Freemasons have there are no Masonic “secrets” within them. Yet the been hiding a “secret” treasure for many years. moral lessons exemplified through the degrees serve Perhaps the bidders at the recent auction were as a reminder to each of us that we took the same hoping to find clues from the Masonic items on dis- obligation to respect our Brothers, to protect their play. Perhaps the clues are found in the carved Ma- families, and to live a life that is worthy of being called sonic gavel in the shape of an altar? Or perhaps a Freemason. there is a clue in the very first daguerreotype of a The true “secret” is the way in which the fraternity Freemason in Masonic regalia. has drawn us together through an association with The fraternity has a lengthy and proud history to other members of the craft who hold similar values. reflect upon. In fact, the Grand Lodge of Massachu- Those values are an important part of our success. setts is celebrating this year its 275th anniversary of But what is even more important is the way in which the first duly constituted lodge in the Western Hemi- we put those values to the test in transforming our sphere. The National Heritage Museum has opened own lives. an exhibition of rare objects from the Grand Lodge The Masonic fraternity will continue until time shall collection. be no more, as long as we continue to improve our- The casual observer will be disappointed to learn selves and reach out to our Brother Masons. that there are no “secrets” displayed among the col- lection of antiquity. The items are merely symbols of what the fraternity stands for. They have withstood the test of time. There is a lock of Washington’s hair Sovereign Grand Commander inside an urn crafted by Paul Revere. There is a

The Northern Light / May 2008 3 orking WTOGETHER: Sharing Treasures By AIMEE E. NEWELL

Does your Valley or lodge have historic or FIT FOR A KING — antique treasures? King Solomon Graces the Farr Conference Center

erhaps there’s a prized certificate hanging on the wall In late November 2006, the museum was contacted by Por a glass-front case with aprons, jewels and medals Annawon Lodge No. 115 in West Haven, CT.The lodge that you pass by each time you enter the lodge room. had sold its building and was about to move to smaller Since its founding in 1975, the National Heritage Mu- quarters. seum in Lexington, MA, has worked with Masonic groups While the members had a plan for their records and fur- to research and preserve their historic objects and docu- nishings, one item remained and the situation was becom- ments. ing desperate.The centerpiece of their lodge room, a large These joint ventures offer important benefits for both. oil portrait of King Solomon that was presented in 1874, Through site visits to lodges and Valleys or through photo- was too big to fit their new accommodations. Annawon graphs sent by mail or email, the museum discovers arti- Lodge asked the museum if the painting might find a facts that may fit our collecting, research and exhibition home in Lexington. projects while the Masonic groups receive expert advice on At approximately nine feet high by five and a half feet how to care for these items, and learn about their history wide, this was a request that required some careful consid- and use. eration on the part of the museum. Since 1975, over 40 Valleys and lodges have made gifts Most spaces in the building that could display or store of objects and documents to the National Heritage Mu- something this large already did. But, with some brain- seum and its Van Gorden-Williams Library. storming, together with research about the painting’s fasci- In addition, numerous Valleys and lodges placed objects nating story, museum staff devised a plan to house the on loan to the museum, sometimes for short-term exhibi- painting. tion and sometimes for longer-term preservation. Through an extended loan agreement, Annawon Lodge The museum takes seriously its responsibility to assist agreed to contribute funds for transporting the painting to Masonic organizations with their historic artifacts and doc- Lexington, conserving and appraising the piece, and build- uments. ing it a new frame. We strive to do this in a cost-effective way. Over the past In turn, the museum provided professional staff time as- year, the museum began to implement a new model of col- sessing, installing and researching the painting, as well as laborative loans and gifts. coordinating with the lodge, movers, conservator and This article highlights three recent projects. framer.

4 May 2008 / The Northern Light member of New Haven’s Hiram Lodge No. 1, serving as its Master in 1834. Although the painting is signed by Flagg, it has a history of being started by one artist and completed by a second.The story passed down with the painting is that the first artist passed away, leaving the canvas incomplete.The second artist asso- Painting of King Solomon ciated with the painting is Harry Ives Thompson officiating at the (1840-1906) from West Haven, CT. dedication of Thompson was also a trained artist, studying under his temple. The artist is Benjamin H. Coe (b. 1799) and exhibiting at the Na- George Whiting tional Academy of Design in the 1870s and 1880s. Flagg of New Haven, CT. Thompson was a Mason and a member of Annawon Lodge, where the painting originally hung. It cannot be substantiated that two artists worked on the painting. In fact, the story of one artist dying and the second taking up the brush cannot be true as Flagg, presumably the initial artist, passed away in 1897, 25 years after the painting was presented to Annawon Lodge. After more than 125 years watching over the lodge room, the King Solomon painting was quite dirty — The painting now hangs in the Farr Conference think of the decades when smoking was far more uni- Center where it enjoys appropriate levels of tempera- versal indoors that it is today, as well as the residue ture and humidity. In addition, it is accessible to the left by old heating systems. museum’s wide audience of visitors, perhaps piquing The primary conservation treatment, performed by interest in Freemasonry. Carmichael Art Conservation in Bedford, MA, was a The painting depicts King Solomon officiating at thorough cleaning using appropriate materials and the dedication of his Temple. On the left is an urn careful techniques. Mild detergent removed the grime burning incense with two workmen above. One of the and a special solvent was used to remove a layer of men is an overseer holding a square, the other is a yellowing varnish that had protected the painting for craftsman who is sitting down, indicating that their many decades. work is complete. Cracks and losses in the paint were made less visu- King Solomon wears a Royal Arch apron and the ally obvious.The painting’s canvas was also re- symbolism in the painting relates to the York Rite’s stretched along the top right edge to provide proper Most Excellent Master’s degree. In addition, other support. common Masonic symbols are visible — the partial A new layer of varnish was applied to the painting square and compasses at top center and the all-seeing to help protect it for another century and a new acid- eye at top right. According to the painting’s history, free backing board was attached to the back to pre- Solomon’s face is modeled on the artist’s father. vent dirt, bugs, dust and other material from getting The painting is signed by George Whiting Flagg caught on the back and inside the frame. (1816-97) of New Haven, CT.Flagg studied under The change in appearance from when the painting his uncle, Washington Allston (1779-1843), and left Annawon Lodge is quite striking. New details are painted many historical scenes and genre pictures. visible and the colors are much closer to how it Early in his career, he was supported by his patron, looked in 1874. Luman Reed (1787-1836) of New York City, and traveled extensively in Europe. An Ancient Maul Comes While Flagg achieved some fame as a painter, he entered the ministry later in life. At the end of his to Rest at the National life, he returned to painting, doing mostly portraits Heritage Museum before his death in 1897. No record has been found that Flagg was a Mason, Recently, museum staff began to review the extended but his father, Henry C. Flagg (1790-1863), was a loan objects that had accumulated under their roof.

The Northern Light / May 2008 5 Many of these loans dated back to the early years of The previous fall, at an October 5, 1927 Special the museum, before its own collection could support Communication, the lodge was visited by the presid- exhibitions and research projects. ing District Deputy, along with Brigadier General The time seemed right to assess each loan for its Charles S. Wilson, then-District Grand Master of relevance to the museum’s mission and core priorities. Egypt and Sudan for the Grand Lodge of England. In many cases, the objects on loan were determined Unfortunately, lodge records do not reveal the oc- to be one-of-a-kind, offering fascinating possibilities casion for Wilson’s visit to western Massachusetts, or for research, exhibits, and public programming. what prompted him to make this gift. Instead the gift So, museum staff began to ask their owners if they of the maul is recorded as “a token of his esteem.” might consider turning these loans into gifts for the Wilson was the fifth District Grand Master after permanent collection. One of the first generous the District Grand Lodge of Egypt and Sudan lenders to accept this proposal was Occidental Lodge formed in 1899. in Stockbridge, MA. Wilson succeeded his predecessor in 1926 after Back in 1977, shortly after the museum opened, that man was assassinated on a Cairo Street, serving Occidental Lodge placed a maul on loan to the mu- as District Grand Master until his death at sea in seum. 1933. According to Wilson, this setting maul was found in the funeral temple of Pharoah Djoser (also known as Zoser), whose reign extended from about 2630 Ancient B.C. to 2610 B.C. Egyptian Maul, donated to the The funeral temple is part of the Step Pyramid at National Heritage Saqqara, Egypt. Built under the direction of Pharoah Museum, by Occidental Lodge Djoser during his reign, by the architect Imhotep, the of Stockbridge, pyramid was the largest building of its time standing MA. 204 feet high with six stepped layers. The structure was intended to hold the Pharoah’s mummified body after his death.The museum is pleased to add the maul to its collection — it be- comes the oldest item in that collection.

The maul has an applied metal band that helps to SPRING CLEANING — tell the story of its significance, “Ancient Egyptian Aurora Lodge Apron Maul Presented to Occidental Lodge by R.W. Brigadier General C.S. Wilson CB, CMG, DSO, Receives Conservation District Grand Master of Egypt and Sudan.” Occidental Lodge was formed in Stockbridge, Like Annawon Lodge No. 115, of Connecticut, the MA, in June 1870 when the Grand Lodge of Massa- members of Aurora Lodge No. 50, in Rockland, ME, chusetts granted the petition of 23 Masons from that became concerned about one of their treasures and town. turned to the National Heritage Museum for help. These men established the purpose of the lodge, During the fall of 2007, one of the lodge members “to promote and diffuse the genuine principles of noticed the apron in its frame, resting on the top of a Freemasonry; for the convenience of our respective metal filing cabinet in the lodge building. dwelling, and other good reasons.” The paper backing was brittle and cracking and the The lodge grew steadily during the late 1800s and apron itself was rippling inside. Bro. James Dayboch early 1900s, initiating members, pursuing charitable did some research and discovered that the apron activities and meeting regularly. dated to the early 1800s, perhaps even to the year of During these years, Occidental Lodge received a Aurora Lodge’s charter — 1826. number of gifts which they preserved as treasures. Working with the lodge and the museum’s curator- In addition to their officer jewels, a set of receiving ial staff, Bro. Dayboch spearheaded an agreement to tools and several ceremonial gavels, the lodge received bring the apron to Lexington so that it could receive the maul in July 1928. proper cleaning, as well as secure storage, to help

6 May 2008 / The Northern Light This book became the best-selling and most influ- ential source of Masonic symbolism in the United States.The illustrations inside also inspired the de- sign of thousands of Masonic aprons. Textile conservator The design and materials help to date the apron to Deirdre Windsor the late 1820s or early 1830s, soon after Aurora works on the apron from Lodge was chartered. Aurora Lodge. The apron is currently undergoing treatment by textile conservator Deirdre Windsor of Dover, MA. Silk is a fragile fiber and can develop tears quite easily over time.These tears, called splits, cannot be repaired. Luckily, the Aurora Lodge apron does not have any splits in the fabric. Instead, the most pressing needs for the apron were better support and storage. The first step was to remove it from its old frame and acidic cardboard backing since the apron shows preserve this piece of lodge history as long as discoloration from prolonged contact with this back- possible. ing. There are also some creases in the apron where it The lodge agreed to place the apron on loan at the used to be folded. museum, allowing its use for exhibition and research Windsor will counter these effects by cleaning it as needed, and also asked the museum to pursue con- gently with a low-suction vacuum followed by appro- servation treatment on the apron to stabilize its con- priate dry cleaning techniques.This will reduce the dition. To help accomplish this work, the lodge’s dirty and stained appearance of the apron. charity fund made a generous donation to the mu- The conservator will also humidify the apron to re- seum. duce the creases and help prevent the silk from split- Unfortunately, documentary records telling the ting for as long as possible. story of when the apron was made and who might This treatment will stabilize the apron for its long- have worn it are missing. term preservation and for possible future exhibition Forty men sent a petition to the Grand Lodge of by the museum or the lodge. Maine in 1826 asking to create Aurora Lodge. Each of these collaborations helps the museum and Their request was granted and Aurora Lodge No. the lodges to accomplish together what none could 50, was chartered on July 13, 1826, in what is now alone. Rockland, ME. All are working to preserve the fraternity’s history, On March 23, 1872, fire broke out in the store be- an essential part of keeping Freemasonry alive.The neath the town’s Masonic Hall, destroying nearly all museum’s collection of objects, documents and books of the property of the city’s Masonic organizations, is essential to its mission. including the records for 1826 through 1858. Subse- We actively collect in order to build our under- quent published lodge records, through 1926, provide standing of the people and events of the past. Only by no clue about the origin or previous ownership of the comparing and contrasting these pieces of evidence, apron. particularly by linking more and more items together, A recent poll at a lodge meeting turned up no can we tell the exciting and compelling stories of our leads, although the apron itself offers a few hints. American past. The silk apron has light blue pleated silk ribbon I would like to thank Richard Memmott, Kevin trim and is hand-painted with an all-seeing eye, sun McGinnis, James Dayboch and Jeff Croteau for their and moon (with seven stars) on the flap and an assistance with research for this article. arrangement of Masonic symbols on the body. If you, your Valley, or your lodge have objects or The order and appearance of the painted symbols documents to donate, or if you would like to discuss a on the apron bear a striking resemblance to the fron- loan with the museum or request advice on preserving tispiece from Jeremy L. Cross’s (1783-1861) The True or researching an artifact, please contact Aimee Masonic Chart and Hieroglyphic Monitor, first pub- Newell, Curator of Collection, by email at lished in 1819. [email protected] or by phone at 781-457-4144. NL

The Northern Light / May 2008 7 Delores and Bob Spitzer at their Wisconsin Home.

FOCUSON Wisconsin By ALAN E. FOULDS, 32°

is easy to get caught up in the historical per- the political arena, and still later, in academia.These two sonalities of Freemasonry. After all, the frater- gentlemen from Wisconsin display the best of Freema- nity has included some mighty big names. sonry. They succeeded in their chosen fields while main- ItFrom the 18th century our rolls have included the taining the highest levels of integrity.They prove that the biggest; George Washington, Paul Revere, Joseph War- goals and beliefs, displayed so prominently throughout ren, John Hancock, Isaiah Thomas, and so many more. In Masonic history, are as relevant as ever. the 19th and 20th centuries such presidents as Theodore Roosevelt, William Howard Taft, Franklin Roosevelt, and Harry Truman have been members. While our history is Robert Spitzer — Farmer, Public truly amazing, it must be remembered that Freemasonry is alive and well today. We still boast many of the movers Servant, and Educator and shakers of society. Here, we focus on two who have Much like Forrest Gump in the famous motion picture, made their marks on contemporary life. Both Wisconsin or Zelig in an earlier film, Ill. Robert Spitzer, 33°, appears men have had illustrious careers much different from with nearly every notable figure of the 1960s and 70s. His each other, but each uses the morals and tenets of the files are full of photographs depicting himself with presi- craft in the way he conducts himself. One worked his way dents, senators, authors, astronauts, and religious leaders. up through the corporate world, running his firm in a One major difference is, however, these pictures are real. way that was best for the company and also best for soci- Spitzer leads an interesting and varied life. His back- ety. The other began as a farmer but made his mark in ground is in farming, but he has also worked in the cor- 8 May 2008 / The Northern Light porate world on an international level, been a part Nixon’s presidential candidacy. He suggested that of the political arena advising the powerful and more of the campaign budget should be allocated was president of an engineering college. to local newspapers. He felt that the local level is His heart and soul, however, have not strayed where the common person would connect with from his love of the earth. In fact, upon entering the candidate.The strategy worked, Nixon won his suburban ranch-style house, he first points out the election, and Spitzer’s opinion was more that the land beneath was once a part of the highly valued than ever. He was one of eight peo- Matthews Dairy Farm. ple called by the president-elect to a summit to His parents were tenant farmers for whom, he talk about agriculture. Six of the eight eventually said, “work was a major part of their lives. Addi- became cabinet members. Bob Spitzer, report- tionally, though, they were part of the commu- edly, was under strong consideration for the posi- nity, involving themselves in many ways. He said, tion of secretary of agriculture. At the time, there “they were truly town leaders.” He grew up realiz- was a move toward a bipartisan cabinet. Demo- ing that communities are not just buildings and cratic senator, Henry “Scoop” Jackson of Wash- roads, but rather, they are the people who live and ington was offered the post of secretary of de- work there. fense. When he declined it was given to Melvin He attended the University of Wisconsin, Laird of Wisconsin. With a cabinet member al- eventually earning a doctorate in animal nutrition ready from the Badger State, it was felt that in 1947. While there he worked for some of the Spitzer, also from Wisconsin, could not be agriculture professors. He said, “They made a appointed. huge impact on my life. After graduation he ac- His political ties did not break at that point. In cepted a position with Murphy Products and the next administration President Ford asked began a climb up the corporate ladder, becoming Bro. Spitzer to head up the “Food for Peace” pro- its president in 1957. gram. He was happy to accept the role.The $1.3 During his formative corporate days, Bob billion program, initiated by President Eisen- Spitzer said that when he looked around at the hower, advocated giving assistance to developing men he worked with, those with the morals and countries to build self-sufficient food supplies. beliefs he admired most were all members of the That, in turn, would promote world peace.The Masons. His admiration of those men led him to stated goal of the organization, which was part of join. the Agency for International Development, was “to help the hungry.” It assisted in helping locals produce food better and to produce better food. It The chances of a man being was also designed to help build markets for the product. Spitzer commented, “The chances of a peaceful are much greater if man being peaceful are much greater if he is not he is not hungry.” hungry.” He once told Ed Nadolski, the editor of his hometown newspaper, the Burlington Stan- — Robert Spitzer dard-Press, “By teaching a person to be self-suffi- cient, you feed the need of his stomach.” His role as project coordinator, Spitzer explained, desig- Spitzer’s earliest foray into politics came when nated him an assistant secretary of state. He he went to see Robert Taft speak, and he liked worked directly for Henry Kissinger. what he heard. At the same time he saw that his Following his work in Washington, DC, Bob once-agricultural county had become over- Spitzer, as he says, “was recycled into a college whelmed by the cities. He felt that legislatures president.” He was recruited by the Milwaukee were being pushed by urban interests, so he got School of Education to head up that institution. involved. He began working for candidates he felt Although his background was in agriculture, the shared his concerns. He campaigned for local engineering school wanted his expertise in candidates, but also gave advice to well-known straightening out finances.The college had devel- national figures, such as Senator Everett Dirksen oped a national reputation, but was mired in red of Illinois. He helped organize “Food and Agri- ink. He succeeded in that role, but went beyond culture for Nixon,” a collection of people inter- the mandate, however. Spitzer pointed out holes ested in farming interests and supporting Richard in the program. In order to round out the educa-

The Northern Light / May 2008 9 tion of its students, history, geography, and busi- ness were added to the curriculum. Spitzer con- nected with the students. He says he was “en- hanced by young people.” In fact, many students visited him at his home. He also strived to broaden the outlook of the faculty. He looked for work experience in his pro- fessors and suggested industrial sabbaticals. In 1987, he contacted Dr. Norman Vincent Peale and asked him to speak at the college. Peale was the long-time minister of New York’s Marble Collegiate Church. During his tenure he oversaw the growth of the congregation from 600 mem- bers to more than 5,000. In 1945 Peale founded Guideposts, a magazine containing inspirational Ill. Bro. Spitzer Spitzer retired from MSOE in 1991, but he shows a stories from the famous and not-so-famous alike. did not remain long out of the mainstream. An photograph of Dr. Peale’s stature grew as he hosted a radio – and event happened during his college presidency himself with later, television – program, called “The Art of that would eventually lead to yet another oppor- President Ford to Ill. Norman L. Living.” Between the two media it was on the air tunity for him to make more major contributions Christensen, 33°. for 54 years. A prolific writer, his most famous to society. He attended the groundbreaking cere- work is The Power of Positive Thinking, which re- mony of a new factory in Wisconsin, built by the mained on the New York Times bestseller list for soy sauce giant, Kikkoman. At the event Spitzer 186 weeks. From that time the preacher and col- was seated next to the president of Kikkoman. lege president formed a close friendship that During their conversation it was noted that would last throughout Peale’s lifetime. In fact, Spitzer, born in 1922, was exactly 300 years when Peale wanted to relinquish the reins of younger than the firm, established in 1622. From Guideposts, he looked to Bro. Spitzer. Bob turned this first meeting, the two men remained in con- down the offer but made a suggestion as to how tact with each other. Bob Spitzer is today on the to structure the operation for permanence. board of directors where he said his role is that of Spitzer recommended that Peale create a “cabinet “senior mentor.” of 100 prominent people” to oversee its future. He Bob Spitzer had - and has - a remarkable pub- even went so far as to host a gala affair to kick off lic life, meeting and working with many of the the format. movers and shakers of his era, yet he remains Spitzer rented a large tent for the occasion and committed locally as well. He stays involved with placed it in the middle of an agricultural area near his town. He knows his community, his county, his home in Burlington. He said that the day was and state. He is a proud member of his Masonic filled with music and speeches, and attendees in- lodge, and from his dining room window he de- cluded the Peale family, major donors, and “farm scribes a vista that is representative of his agricul- folk.” It was an important and, at times, serious tural roots.The view offers him the opportunity occasion, but it was not without its light mo- to remain close to his first love – the land. ments. Spitzer tells the story of how the chickens from the nearby farm began cackling during Dr. John Barth — Striving to Peale’s talk. At first he thought it was a heckler, but upon realizing the source of the disruption, Do the Right Thing said, “It’s not the first time I’ve laid an egg.” Robert Spitzer is also an author. In No Need For Five years ago John Barth, newly elected CEO of Hunger (1981 Interstate Printers) he lays a blue- Johnson Controls, moved from Michigan to be print for ending world hunger, “not through near corporate headquarters in Milwaukee. As he handouts, but hand-ups.” By that he means that was getting out of the shower, preparing for his we need to teach people to support themselves. first day at work in his new position, he overheard Another of his books, The American Challenge a radio report. Milwaukee’s 77th annual holiday (1980 Woodward Books), has a forward written parade had been canceled due to a lack of fund- by his friend, Dr. Norman Vincent Peale. ing. Although new to the city, he understood

10 May 2008 / The Northern Light from the news item that the event was a long- John Barth believes strongly in diversity, not standing tradition that would be greatly missed. only among the products that they create, but also When he got to the office and met with his new within the work force. He says, “Diversity is not staff he asked the question, “What’s the deal with only the right thing to promote, but it’s good for the parade? Why don’t we sponsor it?” It did not the company when dealing with people of many take him long to convince the assembly of corpo- cultures. It helps break down barriers that compa- rate managers that it was the right thing to do. nies often build themselves.” He continued, Later that day, in the lobby of corporate head- “When you globalize you meet and work with quarters with a children’s choir singing carols be- people with different moral and ethical back- hind him, John Barth announced that the parade grounds.” would go on as scheduled. When still heading up the automotive division Support for the annual event has grown and in Detroit he was appointed to the Michigan Mi- now includes other major corporations, but it nority Suppliers Council.The guidelines spelled demonstrated to the city that Johnson Controls out by the group called for purchasing two per- was committed to its host community. It also cent to three percent of products from minority highlighted Barth’s major principle of striving to suppliers. He brought those goals back to John- do the right thing. son. After three years he changed the plan. He recommended that the percentage be increased 25 percent within two years; a number many Never compromise between thought to be an unreasonable challenge.They met the numbers, however.Today 12 U.S. compa- “right and wrong.” nies buy $16 billion worth of supplies from mi- nority companies, but Johnson Controls is con- — John Barth sidered the undisputed leader. Under Barth’s leadership Johnson became the only corporation to win the Management Excel- The most obvious trait of Bro. Barth is his lence Award, presented by the National Minority commitment to commitment. He spent most of Supplier Development Council, twice (2002, his career – 38 years in all - working with John- 2003). Proving that doing the right thing can also son Controls, a multi-billion dollar global corpo- be the right thing to do, Business Week listed ration, rising to its pinnacle. During his employ- Johnson Controls as one of the top 50 performers ment he was committed to the firm and through of 2004. John Barth explains, “The corporate cul- his presidency he worked hard at maintaining its ture is truly global. It stems from a strong system high standard of morality and business ethics. of values and prioritization. Global success comes Despite the pressures of his high profile position from diversity. and time-consuming dedication, he remained His personal philosophy has been to treat peo- committed to his family. He is justifiably proud of ple the way he would want to be treated. He likes being able to prioritize his life in order to be there to form relationships with his co-workers in order whenever his children were involved in sporting to promote transparent discussion. You need the events or school projects. He also remained dedi- opinions of many to make good decisions.There cated to a strict value system, both personally and is room for compromise, he feels, but adds, “never professionally. compromise between right and wrong.” He says “Johnson Controls,” he says, “was founded by his outlook occasionally loses him an order, but Warren Johnson, inventor of the thermostat. never any sleep. He is proud to work at Johnson Today it is a diversified multi-industry company.” and wants all employees to feel the same way. Three major units are each major players or lead- Bro. Barth contends that many of his core be- ers in their fields. First and foremost it has a $17 liefs stem from his upbringing. He had two par- billion-a-year automotive interiors business. A ents that were honest, hard-working school second, $13 billion-a-year unit installs energy ef- teachers. His mother went on to become a school ficient air conditioning and heating systems in principal.They both instilled in him the belief homes offices and factories. Finally, a $4 billion- that hard work pays off. Freemasonry also taught a-year group manufactures batteries for both con- him that “It’s all about doing the right thing and ventional and hybrid cars. making good men better.” He joined the frater-

The Northern Light / May 2008 11 nity at the age of 27, following in his father’s footsteps. He took his 32˚ in the Valley of Newcastle, together with his father. He likes to extend his Masonic beliefs into the business world. He says, “There is no question that the values of Freemasonry are my guiding principles. You Bro. John Barth CEO of Johnson can’t shift gears from your personal to business ethics.” Controls, at His steadfast adherence to a value system does not mean corporate that he does not move with the times. He says, “you can headquarters, constantly refresh your values without changing them.” outside Milwaukee. Bro. John Barth is a man who reached the top of his profession without compromising his moral code. It is clear that it was his set of firm beliefs that aided him as he succeeded in life. When asked what advice he could impart to those today in similar positions, he was quick to respond. “First, you need to commit to hard work. You must realize, also, that your personal development is your “My children have always been at the center of my life. own responsibility. You own your future. It’s up to you to That will continue, not only with them, but also with my make things happen.” He also says that you need a men- four grandchildren. His corporate life also may continue tor; “someone to keep you on the straight and narrow.” as he has been offered several opportunities to serve on Barth stepped down from his role at Johnson Controls boards of directors.Throughout his professional life he at the beginning of this year. He played a chief role in developed close friendships with people around the choosing his successor, a man, he says, “who was chosen world. He will now have the time to re-acquaint himself because of his integrity and honestly, who will continue with many of those people. to raise the bar.” Finally, he says, “I am a proud owner of a pair of Pitts- When asked what the future holds for him, he says, burgh Steelers season tickets.” NL

In Memoriam Ill. Donald Fraser Culton, 33° Ill. Donald F.Culton, 33°, an Active Emeritus Member treasurer of the Property Owners Association of Keech of this Supreme Council for the state of Rhode Island,died Pond and belonged to the Heritage Society of Gloucester, on Saturday, Feb. 16, 2008, at the Scandinavian Home in RI. He volunteered many hours at the Rhode Island Food Cranston, RI. Bank. Bro.Culton was born the son of William Fraser and Eva He was raised a Master Mason in Nestell Lodge No.37, (Gavitt) Culton, in Providence, RI, on Feb. 13, 1917. He F. & A.M. in 1942, where he was Worshipful Master in was educated in the Providence Public Schools. 1951-52 and later affiliated with Adelphoi Lodge No. 33, With a longtime career in motor transportation, he F. & A.M. He was an Honorary Member of Warwick served as co-owner, with his brother, of the W. F. Culton Lodge No. 16, F. & A.M. of East Greenwich, and Star of Motor Express,Inc.,which was established in 1919 by his Bethlehem Lodge F. & A.M. of Wakefield, MA. father. He was elected Grand Master of Masons for the state On June 25,1938,at Providence,RI,he married the for- of Rhode Island in 1962-63. mer Melva Anna Kettleband. He is survived by four sons: Bro. Culton completed the degrees of the Scottish Rite Donald Jr.,David,Richard and Douglas,along with seven in the Valley of Providence in December of 1963. He was grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren; and a Commander-in-Chief of Rhode Island Consistory in brother, Howard. 1971-73. He was also vice president of the Scottish Rite He was a member of the Chepachet Union Church, Cathedral and on the board of trustees. where he was a deacon and chairperson of the Bylaws and On Sept.26,1973,he was created a Sovereign Grand In- Constitution Committee. spector General, 33°, Honorary Member of the Supreme Ill. Brother Culton was very active in civic and frater- Council at Detroit, MI. He was elected an Active Mem- nal organizations. He was a charter member of the Prov- ber of the Supreme Council on Sept. 30, 1987, at Boston idence Junior Chamber of Commerce.He was active in the and served as Deputy for Rhode Island from 1989-92, at Boy Scouts for more than 25 years. He was president and which time he assumed Active Emeritus status.

12 May 2008 / The Northern Light Geographic Information System

ikipedia, the online encyclopedia, calls a geographic infor- Another fact that shows up mation system, or GIS, a method “for capturing, storing, an- clearly is the clustering around interstate highways as op- alyzing and managing data and associated attributes which posed to the more traditional groupings in and around cities. are spatially referenced to the earth.” This is particularly true of younger members, indicating a The entry continues, saying that the technology can be permanent shift in residential habits. used for “urban planning, cartography, criminology, history, Examining maps, not only from today but through recent sales, marketing, and logistics.” history, trends can be seen clearly. Throughout the past year, the Supreme Council offices Information such as this may lead one day to placing Val- have initiated a program that adds to that list of uses. Taking ley offices and meeting halls in new areas where the people advantage of data currently in the membership roles of the have relocated. Scottish Rite, maps can be produced, displaying the data in On the initial set of maps, members’ locations were plot- many formats. ted as dots. They can also be color-coded for use in bracket- Using this modern technology, the disbursement of the ing. Data might be displayed by age or by years in the frater- membership can be looked at from several angles. nity. It might also be put to use in ways that have not yet been If the program also included Grand Lodge data, graphs considered. Bro. Scott Inglis of the Valley of Boston has could show members by blue lodge only vs. Scottish Rite. been “crunching numbers” and taking a look at the demo- To date, two Grand Lodges are participating while several graphics of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. more are considering the benefits. Using Windows-based software called “Manifold,” maps Breakdowns can be made by zip code, Valley, state level, can be created showing where Scottish Rite members live; jurisdiction-wide, or even across the nation. age breakdown by Valley, or within Valleys, and a variety of The program can be customized for use locally. It is hoped other aspects. that within a few months Valley officers can begin using the By looking at such plots, decisions may be made as to tool for planning and setting directions within their own re- where a Valley headquarters should be located. Event mail- gions. ings can be tailored to a specific geographic region. “For ex- ample,” Bro. Inglis says, “If we have a family life event at an amusement park, we may want to concentrate our publicity within, say, 25 miles of the place.” Another practical use is for targeting potential volunteers by proximity to a planned event, or a special meeting might be planned at a location convenient to a group of members. A circle can be plotted at a specified radius, showing in- stantly who might be likely to participate. Planning is not restricted to the geographic boundaries of the jurisdiction. Retirement homes are shown as well. Plan- ning for a site visit by the Sovereign Grand Commander or other officers can be augmented by mapping where members are located, even when living outside the membership area. Geographic Information Looking at a map makes it easier and System quicker to discern what is practical. Scott In- presentation glis points out, “A picture is worth a thousand showing the words.” Valley of A recent example of how GIS technology Wilmington can be used is in the creation of the new Val- and the ley of Lower Delaware. By plotting the loca- Valley of Lower tions of Scottish Rite members in the state, it Delaware. becomes obvious that there is a high concen- tration far south of the Valley of Wilmington.

The Northern Light / May 2008 13 32° Masonic Learning Centers for Children, Inc.

Board of Governors Annual Convention he boards of governors chair- persons, of the 32° Masonic TLearning Centers for Chil- dren, Inc., convened for their annual convention on March 17-18. The convention was held at the Na- tional Heritage Museum on the cam- pus of the Supreme Council head- quarters in Lexington, MA. The two-day event not only cele- During a short recess, participants at the convention were able to meet and brated the success of the 59 learning discuss their own learning centers with other attendees. centers now in operation in all 15 For more photos please visit our website at: www.ChildrensLearningCenter.org states of the Northern Masonic Juris- diction, but also laid the groundwork The chairpersons and vice chair- Future successes and challenges for for the continued prosperity of these persons did an exceptional job in rep- the learning center chairpersons and learning centers in the future. resenting the best interest of their their fellow board of governors mem- The first day of the conference fo- individual centers as well as the 32° bers will no doubt arise in fulfilling cused on the operational, clinical and Masonic Learning Centers for the mission of the corporation. budgetary protocols which support Children, Inc. However, the hard work, diligence the daily functions of each of our It is their hard work and dedication and dedication displayed by all at the learning centers. that allows for the continued success convention instilled trust that the The second day involved the discus- of our learning centers which have leadership of our learning centers is in sion and planning for future initiatives now graduated a total of over 6,100 very capable hands. that will both maintain and enhance children. — William G. Ziemer the tutorial programs developed to benefit children with dyslexia. Chairpersons and vice chairpersons begin discussion for future intiatives to maintain and enhance the tutorial programs for our learning centers.

14 May 2008 / The Northern Light 32° Masonic Learning Centers for Children, Inc.

NORTHERN MASONIC JURISDICTION 59 CENTERS OPEN • BANGOR

• BURLINGTON • PORTLAND

SEACOAST MADISON • • • NASHUA BAY CITY• • LOWELL MILWAUKEE CENTRAL NEW YORK • LEXINGTON • WEST MICHIGAN ROCHESTER WORCESTER• • GREATER BOSTON • •PROVIDENCE • DETROIT WATERBURY • • CHICAGO • ERIE WILLIAMSPORT FREEPORT • • • • SCRANTON • CLEVELAND NEW CASTLE BLOOMSBURG MOLINE SOUTH BEND • TENAFLY • • TOLEDO• • ALTOONA • NEWARK AKRON• READING• ALLENTOWN• • YOUNGSTOWN• • • PEORIA FORT WAYNE • SCOTCH PLAINS • • COLUMBUS CANTON• PITTSBURGH• HARRISBURG• HASBROUCK HEIGHTS DANVILLE • PHILADELPHIA• STEUBENVILLE• LANCASTER • NORTHFIELD • • BURLINGTON• DAYTON• • • CAMBRIDGE WILMINGTON• SPRINGFIELD• INDIANAPOLIS• CINCINNATI •• NORWOOD SOUTHERN ILLINOIS LEARNING CENTERS BY STATE • EVANSVILLE• CONNECTICUT 1 MASSACHUSETTS 4 OHIO 11 DELAWARE 1 MICHIGAN 3 PENNSYLVANIA 12 ILLINOIS 7 NEW HAMPSHIRE 2 RHODE ISLAND 1 INDIANA 4 NEW JERSEY 6 VERMONT 1 MAINE 2 NEW YORK 2 WISCONSIN 2

Start with the first word. Add to it the letters of the second word. Then add or subtract the letters of the following words. Total the remaining letters and unscramble them to find a word associated with Masonry. MASONIC Pennsylvania WORDMATH License Plate (MOTHERHOOD) + (CHILDREN) – Bro. Bob Stanley, a member of the Valley of Pittsburgh, designed this license plate which has been (ODE) – (MODERN) + (CALENDAR) – approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

(REACH) – (ROD) + (DURING) – (LAND) The initial cost is $32, a portion of which is allocated to the children’s –(URCHIN) learning center program. Residents of Pennsylvania interested = in obtaining a plate should contact a Valley Secretary. Clue for this puzzle appears on page 12. Answer from previous issue: INTEGRITY

The Northern Light / May 2008 15 MOON LODGES Shedding light on old traditions

By STEPHEN R. GREENBERG, 33°

ough the night was made for loving, And the day returns too soon, Yet we’ll go a-roving, By the light of the moon — Lord Byron

The moon rising in the heavens has always jewel of the Junior Deacon, this heavenly body is en- held a passion for mortals. Even in the time of the closed within the square and compasses. Old Testament, it is written in the Book of Genesis ough the spiritual and ritualistic ties that bind that in the fourth day of creation, God made two the moon into the grand Masonic Circle are ac- great lights: the greater light to rule the day and the knowledged, there is yet another and more signifi- lesser light to rule the night. In Deuteronomy and in cant link existing between the moon and the frater- the Book of Kings, the moon was regarded as a sym- nal craft. bol of permanence. In the early traditions of Ma- During the 19th and early 20th centuries in rural sonry espoused by the ancient Grand Lodges, both America, it was only with considerable hardship that in Scotland and in Ireland, ritual reference is made to a Mason might journey to his lodge or return from it the three lights of the lodge, the Sun, the Moon and because the depth of the night shadows reduced vis- the Master of the lodge. ability thereby rendering travel most hazardous. ere were, in addition, three immovable or fixed It was not uncommon for a Brother to face many lights described by the early craft as three windows long miles between his home and his lodge. Ap- in the lodge room: “to light men to and from their proaching darkness and the dangers posed by in- work.” ese windows, in some ancient traditions, clement weather often combined to make and travel have been superceded by three candles, one situated most perilous. in the East, another in the West and a third placed in e bright light beaming downward from a full the South. Each candle is placed in front of one of moon would provide illumination most welcomed the principal officers of the lodge. for night travel. In the American ritual of omas Smith Webb, Many rural lodges cognizant of this planned their the moon is given reference in the first degree of fraternal functions in accord with the appearance of Masonry as one of the lesser lights in this tradition. the full moon. e Grand Lodge of Kentucky pub- It is identified as the Biblical rule of the night. In the lished in its Proceedings of 1874 an “Almanac of Full

16 May 2008 / The Northern Light Moons,” which showed the full moons occurring in appearence of the full moon. Arcadia Lodge No. 51 each year from 1869 to 1883, indicating the day of in Minnesota, Freedom Lodge No. 194 in Illinois, the week and the month upon which every full moon Gila Valley No. 9 in Arizona, Mt. Moriah No. 11 in occurred. It was also noted that the weather condi- Washington State and County Line Lodge No. 373 tions were often most favorable at those times. located on the border between Arkansas and Mis- ere were but few states that did not at least have souri have persisted as true moon lodges. one “moon lodge” upon its roster. By the middle of DeSoto Lodge No. 105 in Florida, chartered in the 19th century, there were almost three thousand 1889, still holds its meetings on or before the ap- such lodges existing in America. e greatest com- pearence of the new moon. is lodge has been af- plement were found in the states of Vermont, Ohio, fectionly called, “e Moonshine Lodge.” Indiana, Illinois, Maryland and Kentucky. As the Some American moon lodges reach far back in years progressed, the number of such lodges has time. Perhaps the oldest of these was Friendship dropped until there now exists but a small number Lodge No. 7 in Rhode Island. is lodge received its that still regulate their meetings with celestial events. charter in 1802. Illinois still numbers five lodges in this category. Clemont Social Lodge No. 29 of Ohio is believed Improved roads, lighting conditions and vehicular to be the second oldest of the moon lodges being es- safety have all combined to lessen the need for tablished about 1850. moonlight dependency. Travel in these years was so difficult that at the in- A number of Grand Jurisdictions have legislated stallation of the Master in 1885, G.B. Beacham, re- moon lodges out of existence; 36 Grand Lodges still quested the lodge Secretary, also a justice of the recognize their existence, but confusion over the peace, conduct the marriage ceremony immediately exact time of meeting with the substitution of such after the installation and in the presence of the as- constitutional wording as, “on or before” or “on or sembled Brethren and guests. Afterwards, he and the after” the full moon has been the source of much wedding party retired to the lodge dining hall for a perplexity. traditional banquet, all designed to save extra travel ough vast improvements in the standards of life hardship. in America have largely witnessed the virtual demise A meeting held by the light of the moon in Al- of this custom in America, today, there are still a bion, ID, held a family night in 1887. During the small number of lodges that cling to the old custom course of the evening, someone, as a prank, re- of holding their communications in relation to the arranged the blankets and clothing on all of the in- fants who had been brought by their parents. Most of the mothers picked up their offspring only to dis- cover miles away, that they had carried off the wrong baby. e parents were forced to return over poorly con- “Doric Lodge” structed trails illuminated only by the light of the by Frank Stockwell moon in order to correct this grevious mistake. which is Claude Claudy, one of the most gifted of Masonic displayed at Supreme Council writers, authored a series of lodge room plays depict- headquarters, is ing interesting themes within a fraternal lodge room reminiscent of a Moon Lodge. setting. e action took place in “Doric Lodge” which was reported to be a moon lodge. Painting Moon lodges have imparted something of rural courtesy of the America that is truly unique and cannot by replaced. Valley of Such lodges have shown clearly the importance Buffalo, NY. which our early Brethren placed upon fraternal life. Despite such hardships, attendance at fraternal gath- erings was good and interest was keen. Masonry was vigorous, flourishing in a spirit of love, rarely equaled in succeeding years. NL

The Northern Light / May 2008 17 NOTESFROMTHE

Valley of Dallas Scottish Rite Bicycle Brigade Program The Valley of Dallas recently The Dallas Scottish Rite Bicycle Brigade re- cently donated 25 police bicycles to the Dal- learned that the City of Dallas las Police Department. The bicycles are worth Bicycle Patrol needed 25 bicycles $800 each. for its police officers.The Scot- Valley of Dallas quickly approved. tish Rite responded by establish- Bro. Robert A. Mantle, 32°, de- ing the Bicycle Brigade signed a permanent sticker to be Committee and set out to collect placed on each bike.The Scottish funds to purchase the bicycles for Rite double-headed eagle and the the patrolmen. Senior Corporal Masonic square and compasses Scott Transou, 32°, was appointed are prominently displayed on chairman. each side of the bicycle’s frame. Photo: Charles Cumming, 32°, KCCH, Dallas The special bicycles cost $800 On Oct. 23, 2007, a special front steps of the Valley of Dallas each or $20,000 total, which the presentation was held on the building where the 25 bicycles were presented to the mayor of Dallas, the Honorable Tom Lep- Masonic Clothing: 2007 pert, and Dallas chief of police, & Regalia David M. Kunkle. Many offi- SRRS Bonus Book cers, members, and citizens were The 2007 Bonus Book of the present, and the presentation was Scottish Rite Research Society covered by the four major televi- (SRRS) has just been published sion stations and the major local and is a facsimile of Fred J. W. newspaper. Both the mayor and Crowe’s classic 1897 Masonic Clothing and Regalia. Crowe’s book the police chief expressed their captured the colorful 1897 regalia deepest appreciation not only for and jewels of British and European the gift of the 25 bicycles, but Grand Lodges in 36 outstanding also for the role that Masonry vivid plates. His book has been has played in supporting law en- reprinted on heavy enameled paper forcement and its officials in our to faithfully reproduce the rich col- communities. ors of these beautiful aprons, col- lars, and other items of regalia. No Plate XXII: Grand Lodge of Denmark The eight other Valleys in the other book has ever attempted so ambitious a cataloging of Masonic clothing. Orient of Texas have endorsed It is available for $50 to non-members at the Supreme Council Online Gift the Bicycle Brigade Program and Center (go to www.scottishritestore.org and follow the link). will be following the lead of Dal- The SRRS was created in 1991 and now has over 5,000 members las. The Texas Valleys plan to worldwide. Dues are $45 per year, for which members receive Heredom, the purchase and donate bicycles to annual hard-bound collection of Masonic research papers, , The Plumbline their police departments and the the society’s quarterly newsletter, and an annual bonus book. For member- ship information, email [email protected] or call 202-777-3110. security forces of colleges and universities in Texas.

18 May 2008 / The Northern Light Behar — he’s the genius who grew because we can hear the other person’s voice. Still, the Starbucks from a regional string of cof- magic of the face-to-face meeting is denied. Howardfee shops to a worldwide institution. I would submit that email, texting and cell phones do not In case you missed it, he’s written an interesting book, bring us together, but actually serve to isolate us because “It’s Not About The Coffee,” I assure you that it is worth your we never really get to know those we have never met or reading time. with those we have seldom seen in the flesh. And electronic Among the many gems in Behar’s communication can put distance be- By LEIGH E. MORRIS, 33° book is this observation: tween old friends unless they reinforce their ties through old-fashioned human “There is no substitute for human ex- exchange. change — sit down and talk with peo- ple. Take time to listen. You will learn No, I am not so foolish as to suggest more — and probably accomplish more we abolish electronic communication. It — than you would sending a dozen is neither possible nor desirable. emails.” Rather, I am suggesting a renewed em- phasis on human exchange — on sit- Ironically, I read these words as the ting down and talking with (not “to” or person sitting next to me was busy tap- “at”) people. ping away a message on his Black- Berry. Nearby, a young woman Over the past decade, I have gained pounded out some text on her cell a greater appreciation for our fraternity, phone. as well as for such organizations as De- Molay, Job’s Daughters, Eastern Star There are times — and this was one and Rainbow Girls. of them — I border on becoming a 21st century Ludite. Ah, I fondly recall those You see, we actually meet — face to good old days before everyone was face. We have human exchange. We connected. talk with people. We listen, share ideas and build the bonds of friend- Yes, I must admit that I have ship. never been completely comfort- able with electronic communica- Perhaps that is our greatest se- tion. MORE WORDS cret — the secret of communica- tion. Sure, I appreciate (and even preach) the value electronic com- less communication My own lodge meets twice each munication brings to our society. month. I look forward to every meeting. I regret any meeting that circumstances prevent me from attending. At the same time, I fret about what we have lost because of electronic communication. Earlier this year, my lodge held its annual spaghetti din- ner. I found myself — for a moment — doing a little com- Can we not strike a balance? plaining about the long hours of work and wondering We are awash in email, texting and cell phone banter. whether it was worth the effort. Then the doors opened and Whether you are walking down the sidewalk, doing the people began to stream in. We all saw old friends and met weekly grocery shopping, eating out, sitting in a movie the- new friends. The hall was filled with lively chatter. People lin- ater or cruising down the highway, you’ll see folks chatting gered to talk about times past, display photos of children on their cells, texting a message or fiddling with their Black- and grandchildren and just catch up on the “news.” Try Berry. Maybe you are one of those folks. doing that with email, texting or a even a cell phone. Yet, as Behar observed, they are probably doing little in So, in this column devoted to the Internet and related the way of actually communicating. topics, I am suggesting we all try something bold and dar- Email and texting are, in my view, the most destructive. ing. Spend more time with people. Engage in real conversa- We tap out words — often with little or no regard for tion. Watch, listen and learn. Strengthen the bonds of spelling, punctuation, case, tense or even meaning — leav- friendship. ing the recipient to decipher our intent. And when you must write, try something exceptionally We have no opportunity to look into the eyes of another novel. Go grab a piece of paper or two, a pen and then sit person or to hear the tone of that person’s voice. We miss down and write a real letter. Then address the envelope, the opportunity to pick up on body language. We are left to affix a stamp and drop it in the nearest letter box. I guaran- wonder whether the person is angry, excited, happy or sad tee that it will mean more to the recipient than 100 or even when the words were tapped out. A little happy face or a 1,000 emails. frownie at the end of a sentence just doesn’t do the job. An email or a text message offers us no opportunity to As always, please send you questions and comments to listen to the other person. me ([email protected]) or, if you prefer, you can send a letter to me at PO Box 42, Virginia, IL 62691. The cell phone, like the landline, is a tad more personal

The Northern Light / May 2008 19 MEMBERSERVICES www.ScottishRiteOnline.org PayYourDueswithaNewScottishRiteMembershipBenefit

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20 May 2008 / The Northern Light Gestapo headquarters in He later went on to lead Paris. Afraid he would im- the expedition that mapped plicate others, he jumped the east coast of Greenland. from a window on March He wrote two books on 22, 1944, and died later that these travels — Conquering evening. the Arctic Ice, about his ex- pedition across the Beaufort <<< Sea and Lost in the Arctic, about his Greenland Expe- dition. He died in 1971.

By ROBERT A. DOMINGUE <<< <<< Born Dec. 18, 1886, Tyrus Pierre Brossolette is Raymond “Ty” Cobb shown on a French stamp is- matured into a 6 foot, 1 inch tall, 175 pound baseball leg- sued on May 18, 1957, for The latest pure Masonic end who threw right- Underground Heroes. He stamp was issued to com- handed, batted left-handed was initiated April 23, 1927, memorate the 125th an- and played center field. in the Lodge "Emile Zola" niversary of the Gran Logia (Grande Loge de France). del Peru which was founded on March 25, 1882. It was John Hancock was born He received the 4° (Maitre issued on Sept. 17, 2007. in June 1737 in a section of Secret) July 10, 1930, in the Braintree which is now Lodge "La Perfection La- <<< called Quincy, MA. He tine". He affiliated with graduated from Harvard in Lodge "L'Aurore Sociale" Greenland commemorated 1754. (Grand Orient of France) in the centenary of the birth of He was one of the early Troyes on Jan. 10, 1937. Enjar Mikkelsen with a revolutionary activists and stamp released on Oct. 16, He started with the Au- served as president of the 1980. He is shown on board gusta Club in the South At- First and Second Provincial the Gustav Holm in 1934. lantic League and in 1905 Congresses, a member of the Bro. Mikkelsen was initiated played 41 games for the De- Continental Congress and as in Lodge Christian, Copen- troit Tigers batting only a Major General during the hagen on Feb. 25, 1914. He .240.The next year he raised War. After independence later affiliated with Absalon his average to .320 and never was achieved he remained Lodge, also in Copenhagen slipped below that figure active in public affairs serv- and eventually progressed to again.Three times he ex- ing as the first Governor of Brossolette was born June the 10° in 1917. ceeded .400 with a top figure Massachusetts, elected to 12 25, 1903, in Paris. He He was born in 1880 and of .420 in 1911. His lifetime terms. worked for Radio-PTT until in 1906, a young Mikkelsen average was .367, the highest He was active in the adop- he opposed the Munich and his crew set out to dis- in baseball history. tion of the Declaration of Agreement on the air in cover and explore the land In 1925 he told reporters Independence, and as presi- 1939 and was fired. When that lay north of Alaska. he would deliberately swing dent of Congress, he was the World War II broke out he The journey was important for the fence on May 5 — he first to sign it. He died in joined the army. He disap- because of the scientific in- hit three home runs, a dou- 1793. proved of the Vichy Regime formation that was gathered. ble and two singles. He died Bro. Hancock received his and participated in the July 17, 1961. degrees in Merchant's Lodge founding of resistance Bro. Cobb joined Royston No.1, Quebec, Canada in groups. From 1942-44 he Lodge No. 52, Royston, GA, 1760 and 1762 while on traveled between France and in 1907. He also joined the business trips there. Upon Britain where he met with Scottish Rite in Detroit in returning to Boston he affili- Charles DeGaulle as a re- 1912 and the Moslem ated with the Lodge of St. sistance representative. On The islands above Alaska Shrine Temple the same Andrew on Oct. 14, 1762. his trip to Britain in 1944 were mapped, photographs year. He is pictured on a His image appears on a his vessel was shipwrecked were taken and a better un- stamp released by the USPS stamp issued by Grenada on and the Germans captured derstanding of the Eskimo on July 6, 2000. May 6, 1975. him. He was taken to the was gained.

The Northern Light / May 2008 21 vility, inclusiveness and welfare of the community.” Principles of Freemasonry are closely woven throughout the three books. Although it is a fictional tale, local history and landmarks including Masonic landmarks are included. It is a volume that should be interesting reading to you and certainly to central Pennsylvanians who will relate closely to names and places. I found it to be somewhat serendipitous but maybe that is a result of my failure to keep up with books of fiction.

Builders of Empire — Freemasonry and British Imperialism, 1717-1927

by Jessica L. Harland-Jacobs. Published in 2007 by the University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, NC.

Reviewed by Thomas W. Jackson, 33° I have been intrigued in recent years with how many good books examining Freemasonry are being written by fe- male historians and tend to avoid join- ing the ranks of those exploiting the A Pennsylvania Trilogy sensationalism of Masonic speculation by John M. Eddinger. Published in for profit.Their interest seems in- 2007 by iUniverse, Inc., 2021 Pine Lake clined toward an analytical approach Road, Suite 100, Lincoln, NE 68512. of Freemasonry’s place in history and its contribution to society.They also A Pennsylvania Trilogy is defined by lack any biased proclivity toward the the author as a “contemporary fiction” craft as do some of our Masonic authors. containing the books: Abe’s Quest, Builders of the Empire is an inspiring analysis of the influ- Abe’s Return and New Ventures writ- ence of the Masonic fraternity. It must represent, on the part ten in “past, present and future formats.” of the author, tremendous research into over 200 years of in- Normally, I do not write reviews of fiction. However, the fluence that Freemasonry had on the development of the author included a communication with the book indicating British Empire which in turn impacted the development and that it was “meant to educate the reading audience about the advancement of world society. Because of its already estab- place of applied Freemasonry in the community at large.” In lished associations with European elites, Freemasonry at- addition, the author is a member of my Consistory and the tracted rising men wishing to be part of that association. It setting is in my general home area. Eddinger has authored also, however, represents the willingness and openness of one previous book, The Search. present-day Freemasonry to provide access to our archives to Abe’s Quest is a tale concerning world renowned “tracker,” those outside the craft.This book, therefore, might not have Abraham Carlson, who journeys to Hummelstown, PA, been possible in the not-too-distant past. from Arizona to try to solve a puzzle that arose when he dis- The author placed emphasis on five observations, one covered a letter in his deceased father’s Bible dated in 1933 being the role of cultural institutions in globalization. and written by an uncle he was unaware that he had.The Freemasonry played a vital role in this process by melding uncle was a member of Brownstone Masonic Lodge in Her- together in common bond diverse peoples over a wide area. shey, PA, and the letter indicated that he had “committed a The second emphasis is on the formation and operation of Morgan.”The quest was Carlson’s commitment to discover supranational identities. It would be difficult to conceive of some of his ancestry and the meaning of this phrase. any organization outside of possibly some religions that During this quest he meets and falls in love with a beauti- would have made a greater contribution to a supranational ful law professor from Dickinson College and returns to identity than has Freemasonry. Hummelstown in Abe’s Return to marry her and settle there. In Jacob’s third emphasis, she uses “the history of Freema- New Ventures, a continuing sequel relates his ongoing activi- sonry to explore the complex dynamics of power in Britain ties in central Pennsylvania where he becomes more involved and the Empire.” A goodly portion of this book deals specif- in creating and promoting programs involving “tolerance, ci- ically with this point.

22 May 2008 / The Northern Light Her fourth emphasis is on the exploration of masculinities Builders of Empire is extremely informative in creating an that provides, at least to me, a more comprehensive under- understanding of just how important Freemasonry has been standing of the inflexibility of Regular Freemasonry on the in structuring world societies. Who could deny the influence position of a male only organization. She quotes John Tosh that the establishment of British imperialism has had on the as observing ‘that men viewed the brotherhood as quintes- world and Jacobs makes quite clear the influence that sentially a masculine arena where men worked better with- Freemasonry had in supporting British imperialism. out the company of women’. The fifth emphasis is on fraternalism that cannot be to- tally separated from masculinity. She defines fraternalism as Famous American a “process by which biologically unrelated men undergo a Freemasons shared ritual experience designed to create the bonds and obligations that supposedly characterized the relationship by Todd E. Creason. Published in between actual brothers.” 2007 by Lulu.com. The author has examined its influence in each of the areas of the world where Britain established colonization includ- The author is a member of the ing North America, India, the Cape Colony, Australia and Valley of Danville which he joined New Zealand, Bermuda and everywhere that Freemasonry in 2006. He credits the members of accompanied settlers and the military. that Valley for encouraging him to It discusses the great issues that faced the craft in support- become active and giving him the ing its idealistic philosophy of the equality of man regardless opportunity to participate in the conferring of the of class, race or religion when developing in countries with 26°. From that experience he was stimulated to write this such diverse cultures as fits all these categories. Her observa- book. tion on the capability of Freemasons with differing view- He states in the introduction that he is neither an histo- points regarding politics and religion illustrates profoundly rian nor a Masonic scholar. He has, however, written a book one of the reasons why we are still here.The lodge, for exam- that is enjoyable and easy reading and although it is not ple, provided perhaps the only environment during this time meant to be a history, it does contain a brief history of the where Protestants and Catholics could relate to one another lives of each individual presented, leading up to those char- as equals. It also emphasizes, however, that even though the acteristics that made him a “famous American Freemason”. direction of the Grand Lodge was clear, many subordinate The book is written about Freemasons and not Freema- lodges continued to exercise a pronounced bias. sonry so the biographical information relates to their lives Dedication to the monarchy is a hallmark of Anglo Freema- not their relationship with the craft.Their Masonic affilia- sonry adding greatly to the success of British Empire. “Loy- tions are given at the end of each chapter, however. Much of alty to the crown and empire was the most important obliga- the material in this book is not to be found in history texts tion of the Mason.” Her explanation of the justification of and it is presented in a manner that provides an interesting this support that she calls “ardent loyalism” in deference to tale in the life of each personality. avoidance of politics becomes fundamental to Freemasonry. The introduction is an exploration of some of the myths Her examination of the conflict between the Ancients and concerning American Freemasonry and American Freema- Moderns provides an excellent clarification as to why this di- sons. I must question one observation made in the introduc- vision occurred and significantly why the Ancients succeeded tion. In defining the equality of all Brothers in the craft he throughout the Empire while the Moderns tended to fail. states that, “there is no hierarchy in the fraternity”. We may The responsibility of Brothers assisting Brothers and their all be Brothers, but there is indeed a hierarchy in Freema- families when in need is evident in her writings. It is inter- sonry in spite of us all being equals. esting that Masonic officials in India issued warnings about The book is divided into five categories; Patriots, Presi- persons who gained admission merely as a means of getting dents, Military Men, Entertainers and Legends. A brief support. (Does this sound familiar in today’s age?) story is presented in these categories of the lives of 28 men A chart in the appendix traces the members of the royal who were influential enough in their fields to be remem- family from George II (1683–1760) through George VI bered and who were also Freemasons. Some were heroes, (1865–1936) indicating who held Masonic membership, some politicians and some simply Brothers who contributed who served as Grand Master and whether they were a mem- to American lore. Each occupies a niche in the fabric of our ber of the Moderns or the Ancients. country. Creason points out some of the human frailties that I made the observation a number of years ago that it could are to be found in some of them without diminishing their not be happenstance that so many great leaders for freedom, contributions. liberty and equality were Freemasons.This book supports I found the book to be interesting easy reading with infor- that observation. mation that I had not read elsewhere. I think you will too.

The Northern Light / May 2008 23 Broccoli on the grill Walking to and from the station, transfers and then walking to work can It's a great addition to a deck party or add steps to your routing. For added grilling outside at a picnic. exercise, use the stairs at the station, In her book Super Natural Cooking instead of the escalator. (Celestial Arts), author Heidi Swanson After a hard day at work, you aren't says here's how to prepare broccoli on thinking of exercise, but with public the grill. transportation, it's built in. One Atlanta The first step is cutting each head of resident says she lost 30 pounds when broccoli pieces into crosswise sections she switched from driving. about as thin as a pencil. Then add a lit- A commute takes a little longer by tle olive oil. public transportation but saves energy, Grill in a metal basket with the grill is relaxing and saves on parking costs. covered for five minutes or less. Drizzle with more olive oil and add a squeeze of lemon juice and ground flaxseeds. “Due to the space-age materials used in making this model, this one More nutrients in food collects less dust than other than pills A link to gout and to exercise equipment.” At Brigham & Women's Hospital and high blood pressure Harvard Medical School, researchers say Scientists quoted in Hypertension say diets that are high in fruit and veg- includes weakening the immune sys- there is a link between sugary drinks etable intake are rich in antioxidants. tem's rejection response by injecting and high levels of uric acid, which Antioxidants counteract free radicals the patient with bone marrow from the causes gout. which cause damage that could lead to donor. They also found a link between sug- heart attacks and strokes. The treatment is successful for those ary drinks and high blood pressure, but Their most recent study shows that who receive a kidney from parents or only in men. antioxidants in food contain more com- siblings who have slightly different tis- They studied 4,073 men and women plex vitamins and are more protective sue types. Many kidney transplants are over age 18 and found men with the than antioxidants in vitamin pills. similarly mismatched. highest levels of uric acid were most Presently, kidney recipients must take likely to have high blood pressure. anti-rejection drugs for the rest of their The researchers think estrogen pro- lives. Brain games on the tects women from high levels of uric Side effects include excessive hair acid. Internet growth, bloating and tremors. The If you want to perk up your gray matter drugs also raise the risk of cancer. without buying Nintendo or MindFit Big breakthrough for software, visit www.pogo.com. Dr. Maurice Ramirez, an expert on kidney transplant To weigh less, take the the subject, says adults are learning patients train constantly, but they must be engaged and drawn into the learning experi- After decades of searching, doctors at The American Heart Association recom- ence. They respond best to games that Massachusetts General Hospital in mends 30 minutes of exercise such as blend logic, discovery, planning and Boston have found a way to eliminate walking five days a week. thought. the need for anti-rejection drugs in kid- If you take the train, bus, or subway, Pogo's players love Poppit!, Word ney transplant patients. you'll get that exercise without even Whomp and casino games. There is no The key to the new treatment trying. charge.

24 May 2008 / The Northern Light The time is now. Your continuing support of the Scottish Rite Benevolent Foundation through our annual Blue Envelope Appeal helps fund these important charities. Without your continued generosity, these charities simply could not continue to flourish, enriching the educational, cultural and Please use this psychological well-being of so many thousands of our fellow Americans year after year.

Leon M. Abbott Scholarships envelope to show These scholarships reflect our Masonic commitment to making a high-quality college education affordable for young people from Scottish Rite families and Masonic-related youth groups. This past year, your gifts enabled us to award 335 scholarships throughout this jurisdiction. Our belief that democracy thrives when its citizenry is well your support educated keeps us committed to the continued success of this program. National Heritage Museum for the 2008 Since it opened in 1975, the Museum has welcomed almost 2 million people from all across this great country. In 2007, tens of thousand of visitors were charmed and challenged, educated and entertained, all as guests of the Scottish Rite Masons. If you have never visited this wonderful facility of ours, try to do so. Our newest exhibition celebrates the 275th anniversary of the Grand Lodge of Blue Envelope Appeal. Massachusetts with dozens of artifacts including: a gold orb crafted by Paul Revere which holds a lock of George Washington's hair, the chair of Henry Price, first Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, and a carved sign from the Bunch of Grapes Tavern, the first meeting place of the Grand Lodge in 1723. You gift is critical if we Scottish Rite Schizophrenia Research Fellowship Program are to continue these This is our oldest charity. To date, we have allocated more than $25 million to this program. Every year, it allows outstanding postdoctoral medical students to pursue research in neurology and psychology at some of the most prestigious university medical schools. Last year $75,000 in research fellowships were awarded to help advance the diagnosis and treatment of this misunderstood and complex condition. important charities.

Use the envelope in this issue or donate online safely and securely through our website at: www.ScottishRiteCharities.org

The Northern Light / May 2008 25 The Real Masonic Trophies

When I first became a Mason, I was ice to York or Scottish Rite, for distin- impressed with how some Brethren guished service to our youth groups, etc. bragged about the number of Masonic We wear some of these on our chest organizations to which they belonged. and others around our neck. One would pull out his accordion- ese become important; they are the like card case and open it wide, reveal- measuring stick of our success. But are ing all his membership cards. Another they really? Brother would do the same. en they Do we measure our success in Ma- would count the cards to see who had sonry by cards, pins and jewels? I think the greatest number of memberships. not. I'm told outlaws of the Old West e real Masonic trophies are the used to compare notches on their guns valuable friendships we have made as this way. During World War II, our pi- we travel down our Masonic road. lots painted an enemy flag on their craft I challenge you to list your ten best for each kill. friends. After I was in Masonry a little How many are Masons? Of those, longer, I met another type of individual. how many are from some lodge other Masonry and He wears all of his Masonic pins on his than your own? Did you meet them at lapel to show he is a real Masonic the Scottish Rite? joiner. While this isn't my style, at least Isn't this a great reason to invite a I swear by Apollo the physician, by he isn't hiding his Masonic member- Brother to become a 32° Mason so he ship under a bushel. can add to his collection of Masonic Aesculapius, Hygeia, and Panacea, As we move along in years in Ma- trophies — valuable life-long friend- and I take to witness all the gods, all sonry, we start to measure our impor- ships? the goddesses, to keep according to my tance another way. — Herbert C. Wolstoncroft Jr., 33° ability and my judgment the follow- We start to accumulate jewels as past e Rite News, Feb. 1992 ing oath: . . . presiding officers for meritorious serv- — From the Oath of Hippocrates

For 25 centuries physicians have taken Masonic encyclopedist; Dr. Joseph War- the Oath of Hippocrates. Although ren, Revolutionary War hero and Grand medicine has changed radically during Master of Massachusetts; Dr. Frederick EMERITUS! these years, the ethical and moral code by Dalcho, Lieutenant Grand Commander In the Supreme Council “Emeritus” which medicine is practiced remains the of the first Scottish Rite Supreme Coun- is a title of honor. It does not imply same. cil; Dr. Walter E. Fleming, founder of that one has outlived his usefulness. During the progress through the sev- the Mystic Shrine; Dr. Charles Mayo, It is an honorable retirement from eral degrees of Freemasonry the physi- co-founder of the famous Mayo Clinic, the increasingly heavy responsibilities cian cannot help noting that the high and Dr. Alexander Fleming, discoverer of of active leadership which involves vis- ideals, timeless truths and noble precepts penicillin. itations and committee service. inculcated bear a resemblance to the On May 22, 1968, I joined an illustri- It is granted as a mark of respect to Hippocratic oath. ous group: Dr. Philip Mason, Dr. Elizur those Active Members of the Supreme Physicians have contributed actively in Deming, Dr. omas R. Austin, Dr. An- Council who, because of age, illness or the cause of Freemasonry from the be- drew J. Hay, Dr. Olin E. Holloway and long service, feel that they ought to ginning. In 1640, Dr. William Maxwell Dr. Orlando W. Brownback, Past Grand step aside. was initiated in the lodge at Edinburgh, Masters of Masons in Indiana. ey are invited to the Annual Scotland. Dr. Edward Jenner, the first to To the utmost of my talents and abili- Meeting on the same basis as the Ac- vaccinate for smallpox, was Master of his ties I will endeavor to maintain the noble tive Members and may vote on any lodge in Berkley, England. Others fa- heritage that is mine as a physician and a question except the election of Active mous in medicine and Freemasonry in- Master Mason. Members. clude Dr. Joseph Lister, discoverer of an- — Ill. Carl A. Miller, 33°, tisepsis; Dr. Crawford Long, pioneer in — Robert M. Seibel, M.D., Chicago Scottish Rite Magazine, anesthesia; Dr. Albert G. Mackey, e Indiana Freemason, June 1968 Nov. 1952

26 May 2008 / The Northern Light The SQUARE in MASONRY In symbolic Masonry, the square has al- the foundation of an ancient bridge QUOTABLES ways been recognized as by far the near Limerick, Ireland, and the date on most important emblem, and it is ever the square being 1517, shows that the kept before the eyes and memory of teaching of our Masonic ancestors was Ability is what you’re capable of doing. members of the craft. From the time he identical with the speculative applica- Motivation determines what you do. At- first sees the light of Masonry, and no- tion of the working tools of our mod- titude tells how you will do it. tices that it is the chief ornament of the ern craft. e angle of the square is an — Lou Holtz Worshipful Master, until he obtains the exact sub-multiple of 360°, and from an honor of a Past Master, when the sim- operative point of view this is a matter Silent gratitude isn’t much use to anyone. ple square is exchanged for the wonder- of great importance as they can be ap- — G. B. Stern ful combination legacy of Pythagoras, plied to one another on a continuous the square is ever kept before him in a base without loss of space. Living consciously involves being gen- variety of ways. Of course, much that e square in Masonry is, therefore, uine. It involves listening to others hon- could be said of this grand symbol it not only a symbol but one of the work- estly and openly. It involves being in the would not be proper to print. ing tools, emblem of the Worshipful moment. e symbolic teaching of the square Master and the second Great Light. So — Sidney Poitier is as ancient as the pyramids and its an- in this also we are reminded once more cient sign T (tau) takes us back to the of our three great duties, viz: What is It’s been my observation that most people time of the ancient Egyptians, and due to God, ourselves and our fellow get ahead during the time that others from that time to the present it has men. waste. ever been the symbol of uprightness. — John S. Boyd, 32°, e American — Henry Ford e T (tau) still survives in the craft ac- Tyler, July 1, 1900 cording to a great many Masonic In order to be irreplaceable, one must

scholars, who contend that it is used in always be different. an inverted formT on the apron of an MASONS — — Coco Chanel installed Master, where it is generally Not Hermits People often say that motivation doesn’t but erroneously described as a level. ere is work at hand for the more last. Well, neither does bathing. That’s e square, as used in the craft, is re- than two million American Masons, why we recommend it daily. ally what the Greeks called a gnomon, and they should do it now. e task in- — Zig Ziglar and it has been ingeniously suggested volves a movement where they com- by some writers that the initial letter of bine to hold to and promulgate the Spring is nature’s way of saying, “Let’s this word was the cause of its being teachings and professions that have party.” used as the sacred symbol found in the made the craft a power and a unit for — Robin Williams center of the lodge, and if such were the fraternal justice and truth. e closer case it still further carries out the unity the bonds of Brotherhood are drawn, Around here we don’t look backwards for of our lodge symbolism. the more efficacious and speedy the very long. We keep moving forward. Cu- It is a curious fact that the Hebrew outcome for world welfare. ere is no riosity keeps us moving down new paths. Tau used to be written or and that need to exalt Masonic teachings. ey x + — Walt Disney this particular form of a square was a stand for themselves in the test of time symbol of safety 2,500 years ago (see and in the sacrifice made when the cry Be like a postage stamp. Stick to it until Ezekiel, ix.4), the “mark” referred to of distress and oppression has ap- you get there. being Tau, and it is said by learned stu- pealed. ey have one voice, the uni- — Bob Proctor dents of the Talmud, that this symbol versal Fatherhood of God, righteous- was used in the time of Abraham. ness and action. e fraternity cannot We lie the loudest when we lie to our- Hence, from all sources it can be seen afford to adopt any hermit policy amid selves. that the symbolism of the square is very existing stress, but it must act from a — Eric Hoffer ancient, and everyone nowadays under- sacred sense of duty. Masonry can stands what “a square man” means. e never falter nor afford to deny the es- Courage is what it takes to stand up and T is found in a triple form in Royal sential spirit of its principles, whose speak. Courage is also what it takes to sit Arch Masonry. province in protest, the maintenance of down and listen. In 1830 a curious relic was discov- law and order and sympathy and prac- — Winston Churchill ered in the form of an old brass square tical help where needed, is recognized containing the inscription: “I will strive as a true beacon light for humanity. to live with love and care upon the level — Ill. John Lloyd omas, 33°, by the square.” is was found under Brotherhood, June 1921

The Northern Light / May 2008 27 they also appreciate the elaborate album covers and liner notes that come Encouraging with albums. They especially like shar- penmanship ing their music with friends as opposed Penmanship is key to excellence in to listening alone though earbuds. spelling, composition and even mathe- Young people often rediscover LPs matics, new studies show. when they look through their parents' The College Board recognized this in collections and listen to one or two, 2005 when it added a handwritten only to discover music they may not essay to the SAT, an effort to reverse have heard before. the de-emphasis on handwriting and Baby boomers are coming back to composition. vinyl records as well. They're not only rediscovering the sound but capturing a nostalgia for their youth. Coupon fantasy If you have been chiding yourself for not cutting coupons so you can save at Right length for the grocer's, the Food Network's Dave men’s pants Lieberman has some comforting news Whether instructing a department store for you. He says most coupons are used tailor or hemming men's pants yourself, to promote new, more expensive items be sure the back of the pant leg hangs you wouldn't otherwise buy. to about a half-inch above the floor. Decide if the coupon is for something The front of the shoe should always be you really need, before clipping it out. visible according to TLC's "What Not to Wear" show. Pants should drape slightly across the top front of the shoes. Pitch counts protect Open cans in the fridge arms of Little Leaguers Temporarily storing open cans of food Gone are the days when a Little League in the refrigerator is not hazardous to pitcher could be counted on to pitch a your health, say doctors at the Mayo Student loan six-inning game. Rules instituted in late Clinic. The taste of the food might not 2006 limit the number of pitches be as good. They recommend storing in consolidation If you want to consolidate variable-rate thrown by an individual to 85. a sealed plastic or glass container. student loans, wait until July to do it. The change was made in hopes of re- When a can is opened, its contents Mark Kantrowitz, publisher of ducing wear and tear on youngsters' are exposed to oxygen which begins finaid.com, predicts that the Fed's rate arms. A survey by Little League Baseball the process of degrading the interior of cuts could mean lower rates. The rate found that 70 percent of local league the can. Some cans have a white lining cuts could represent the largest de- presidents thought there was no nega- on the inside to prevent its degrading. crease in federal education-loan interest tive impact from the new regulations. Foods stored in cans without the white rates since 1992. Rest requirements call for a two-day lining will have a different taste in a rest after a pitcher throws 46 or more couple of days. This is especially true pitches in a game. A player throwing with acidic foods. 21 to 45 pitches in a day must rest for one day. A player can't pitch in more than one game a day. Vinyl LP records are hot again A cheaper vacation They are gaining popularity in dorm Renting a time-share may cost much rooms, at sleepovers and in living less than a hotel. rooms. Flashy new vinyl records with a Many are located on resort property wonderful sound have come back, to and may have two or three bedrooms, the delight of music executives. pool access and other extras. Reserve Many in the iPod generation are buy- 45 days in advance. To find one, type ing new turntables specifically for LPs. “You’ve got to give me your recipe.” “timeshare rentals” into your online The new fans like the warm sound, but search engine.

28 May 2008 / The Northern Light More than Just Books ... Van Gorden-Williams Library at the National Heritage Museum

What’s in a Scrapbook?:

WHAT IS ORDER OF AMARANTH? giving a pledge or oath with one hand Although some sources say this fraternal order is based on a Swedish order founded raised over her heart. in 1653, the Order of Amaranth owes its modern existence to Rob Morris and his The ceremony continued as Elsie posed with newly elected Royal Patron, development of Order of Eastern Star in 1854. Originally, membership in Order of Floyd E. Weller.This must have been a Amaranth had to be preceded by membership in Order of Eastern Star. Members of very important event in Elsie’s life for the Order of Eastern Star were opposed to having Amaranth as one of a series of de- she kept not only the photographs from grees. As a result in 1921, the Amaranth eliminated the requirement that its members the ceremony, but also all the cards and belong to the Eastern Star. In 1931, in chartering the Charity Court of Connecticut, notes of congratulations.The scrapbook the Grand Royal Patron, Fred C.Tilden, remarked that “the Order of the Amaranth contains correspondence between Elsie was not part of the Eastern Star though working in Harmony with that Order.” and members of Amaranth from all over the state of Connecticut. Additionally, WHAT DOES ELSIE W. HAYNES there are notes from members of the SCRAPBOOK TELL US? Grange and Order of Eastern Star. Scrapbooks tell us a tremendous Elsie attended the Grand Court of amount about the past. Connecticut meeting in Hartford on On Oct. 3, 2007, the Van Gorden- April 15-16, 1955. She was accompa- Williams Library and Archives at the nied by many other officers of Charity National Heritage Museum acquired a Court. There was an Official Visitation fascinating scrapbook that chronicles to Charity Court by Honored Lady the activities of Elsie W. Haynes in the Blanche R. Prentice, Grand Royal Ma- Order of Amaranth.The scrapbook was tron, and Sir Knight Clinton S.Tracy, donated by Elsie’s daughter Patricia Grand Royal Patron, of the Grand Breame of Woodstock, ME.This is Court of Connecticut. Elsie’s story. Elsie was active in the process of re- Elsie W. Haynes (1915-2006) was viewing candidates for membership and born in Brooklyn, NY, and raised in initiation during 1955-56. Her signature Windsor, CT,where she met her hus- appears on many membership petitions band, Lawrence Haynes. She was a as recommending candidates as part of member of Eastern Star as well as Ama- Elsie is crowned Royal Matron in 1955. the investigation process. ranth. Amaranth was her favorite frater- Elsie Haynes is standing behind an altar In 1977, Elsie became “Honored nal organization and she participated as with a square and compasses visible.The Lady” and Supreme Royal Matron rep- a member for years, working her way up altar is draped with a cloth and a Bible resenting Order of Amaranth, United to the highest office of Supreme Royal sits on top of the cloth. Elsie holds a States abroad. Her duties took her Matron and Lawrence became Supreme bouquet of flowers and appears to be around the world three times. Royal Patron. In 1955, Elsie W. Haynes was ORDER OF AMARANTH TODAY crowned, or coroneted, Royal Matron of Order of the Amaranth still exists and flourishes today in 2008. By checking their Charity Court, No. 17, Order of Ama- website, www.amaranth.org, you can choose a Grand Court (state) and then find the ranth. Through photographs in this Subordinate Courts (local town or city) to investigate and consider joining. scrapbook, this elaborate coronation cer- Charity Court, No. 17 merged with Westwood Court, No. 5 on Dec. 12, 2002. emony was documented.The crown is a Westwood Court is still active today. symbol of power and royalty and fitting Current “Honored Lady” Gayle E. Norberg, Supreme Royal Matron, states that the for the Royal Matron, highest officer of order is a social, fraternal, and charitable organization whose membership is open to each court, to receive. both men and women with a Masonic affiliation.The ritual gives lessons for character Elsie’s coronation took place in the building, morality, and ethics.Their charity is The Amaranth Diabetes Foundation Masonic Temple of Windsor Locks, CT.In a photograph in the scrapbook, Trust.

The Northern Light / May 2008 29 The Northern Light article by Brother Mark A.Tabbert on The Knights of Pythias provided valuable information. I was totally unaware of the workings of the Knights. Our fam- ily did not relay the connection my father had with the Knights. My departed father was a Knight of Success Lodge No. 275, McKeesport, PA. He died February 11, 1930.The lodge issued a Resolutions of Respect in his memory to our family. Marvin S. Findling, 32° Valley of Providence

Bring Your Apron to Work?

The many pictures of Masons in aprons in your February issue of The Northern Light brought to my mind the question of how daily actions might be different if we really wore our aprons every day. Knights of Pythias Would the constant reminder that others saw me as a Mason change my behavior for the better? Or would I soon become used As the Supreme Chancellor of the Knights of Pythias, I would to wearing it and ignore its benevolent influence on my manners like to thank you for the excellent article on our order that ap- and conduct? peared in your magazine (“Friendship, Charity and Benevolence, Sadly, I suspect the latter. Perhaps, to keep its influence fresh, The Northern Light, Feb. 2008). On behalf of the entire Pythian I should really wear it about one day per month? Might be good order, I would like to congratulate and thank Mark Tabbert for for me and for those around me. this very concise and informative article. I recently attended a convention of the leaders of our national organization and heard Jon D. Humphreys, P.M. many good comments on his work. Elk Grove, California I wish the very best to you and your outstanding order. I enjoyed the cover of your February issue of The Northern Light, Dave Mead the theme and the way it is shown, but I don’t remember the day Supreme Chancellor, Knights of Pythias Masons wear their aprons to work. I searched and couldn’t find it in the magazine. Please help. I was very pleased with your articlc about the Knight of Pythias. Although much more active east of the Mississippi, we have George Cherry 32° started three new lodges in Kansas in the last few years and hope to restart the Grand Lodge. Again thanks for the fine words. Editor’s note: The upper left-hand image on the February issue refer- ences “Wear Your Apron to Work Day. This was the result of a bit of Roy N. Thomas artistic license on the part of our cover designer. We know of no such Grand Prelate of Missouri day. masonicmoments Please submit your own Masonic photos to The Northern Light. We are accepting submissions of all things Masonic — people, places or occurrences, to share with our readership. You may send your photo to [email protected], or mail your sub- mission to: The Northern Light, PO Box 519, Lexington, MA 02420-0519. Include your name, address and Masonic affiliation. Photos will not Masonic Airline be returned. Submitted by: Bro. Walter W. Stumpf Jr., Valley of Northern New Jersey. “I came across this Planet Airways air cargo carrier plane in one of my industry magazines but have no more information on it.” The Northern Septic Sign, Light was able to locate the photographer, Jonathan Parra Raya, who Dixmont, ME graciously granted us permission to reprint his work. Submitted by: Bro. Richard N. Downer, Val- ley of Burlington. “In December 2007 while driving on the Moose- head Trail in Dixmont, ME, I noticed this sign. I later found the owner to be Edward White, of Dixmont.”

30 May 2008 / The Northern Light Gracious Hosts sonry; its role in American culture; the plans to stage this event, all were identification of resources, and the ar- fully committed and relentless in their The cover story of this issue, “Focus on guments for and against Freemasonry. pursuit of detail. In addition to plan- Wisconsin,” discusses Freemasons of The nine-week course will use three ning and execution the lodge also ob- today. The purpose of the story — in textbooks including The Complete Id- tained permission from the Grand addition to highlighting two men who iots Guide to Freemasonry by S. Brent Lodge which approved the unique have made important contributions to Morris; Christopher Hodapp’s Freema- presentation as long as the work “ad- society — is to demonstrate that son’s for Dummies, and American hered to the Grand Lodge of Illinois Freemasonry is alive and well and still Freemasons by Mark A. Tabbert. Ac- ritual and floor work.” includes, among its membership, cording to Bro. Diaz, “At one point it Following a colonial dinner and the great men who do great things. The had the longest waiting list of any at ceremony, President Washington was two men highlighted, however, proved OSU.” serenaded with a chorus of “Happy to be more than that. They were gen- Birthday to You,” as Bro. George turned erous with their schedules. In both a very youthful 276 years of age. cases they took time out of their busy George Celebrates lives to discuss how Freemasonry has helped shape their morals and how his Birthday those morals, in turn, shaped their de- Bro. William J. Smith from the Valley Secretaries in cisions. In one case, John Barth, a of Chicago reports that George Wash- CEO of a multinational corporation, ington attended a birthday party in his Lexington was happy to include The Northern honor, hosted recently by Union Park The annual conference of Valley Secre- Light in his jam-packed daily calendar. Lodge No. 610. Not only was the for- taries in March was well attended as In the other, we were welcomed into mer president in attendance, but so representatives from around the juris- the home of Bob and his wife Delores were many famous luminaries of the diction were updated on the latest Spitzer with conversation and lunch. early days of our nation. Seen min- changes and programs of the Supreme They even made sure we had “some- gling at the affair were revolutionary Council. Meeting at the National Her- thing for the trip back to Lexington.” Brothers John Paul Jones, Edmund itage Museum in Lexington, MA, the Also facilitating the visit to Wisconsin Randolph, Ethan Allen, William Secretaries had two full days of semi- was Active Member Norm Christensen Ellery, James Monroe, Paul Revere, nars, reports, and discussions concern- who helped with arrangements and Ben Franklin, John Hancock, and ing the direction of the Scottish Rite’s ferried us around town. The best part many more. In fact Bro. Washington Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. of uncovering such stories as this is was overheard in lively conversation Day one was given over to informa- getting the opportunity to meet and with his guests about the progress of tion systems issues, including an MDS get to know these interesting — and the war as well as his personal Ma- update and instructions on portal ac- genuinely nice — people. sonic background. cess and use. “Actually” explains Bro. Smith, “the On day two a seminar on member- lodge celebrated a colonial first degree ship was convened. Subjects such as with a present-day candidate taking the geographic information system; Freshman Seminar his degree from Washington — or OneCause — a dues crediting tool, Once again Hollywood’s newfound more accurately, Russell Schlosser por- and the JROTC/ROTC program were interest in the fraternity has provided traying the first president.” In addition discussed and explained fully. Later in Freemasonry the opportunity to tell to Schlosser, many lodge members the day an update on the upcoming its story in a new form. Word comes donned the garb and persona of Annual Meeting of the Supreme to us from The Beacon, a joint publica- our founding fathers. William Council at Providence was pro- tion of the Grand Lodge of Ohio and Carlton, master of ceremonies vided. Before ending with the Ohio Masonic Home that two re- said, “Planning an event such as roundtable discussions, sessions cent movies figure prominently in this takes a lot of effort and coor- covering strategic planning, placing the craft in a college curricu- dination but the end result is media and communica- lum. In its March/April edition we are what really vindicates the tions, and member bene- informed of a new freshman course effort.” He said that once fits issues were held. offered at Ohio State University, called the officers heard of “From National Treasure to The Da Vinci Code: Freemasons, Fact or Fic- tion.” It is taught by Bro. Jose Diaz, an associate professor at the school. Stated aims for the course are an un- derstanding of the origins of Freema- ALAN E. FOULDS, 32°, editor

The Northern Light / May 2008 31 The Northern Light P.O. Box 519 Lexington, MA 02420

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