The A F & A M of : Men Putting Ethics Into Practice

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Summer 2014 VOL. XXXIII NO. 2

20th Annual Masonic All-Star Marching Band Camp 2014 marks the 20th Annual Nebraska Masonic All-Star Marching Band Camp. In celebration of 20 extraordinary years, all past band participants and chaperones were invited to march behind the band during the Shrine Bowl Parade and were recognized on the field prior to the half-time performance of this year’s Masonic band. In the 20 years since the band was created by Most Worshipful Past Grand Master Jerry Rittenburg, the band camp has seen more than 3,000 high school students sponsored by countless Masonic Lodges, Eastern Star Chapters, Shrine, and Bodies, businesses and individuals. The Masonic Band Camp was a special experience for these students, many of them enjoying lifelong friendships with other students they met at camp. The Masonic All-Star Marching Band lives on as Jerry’s legacy, providing excellent experiences for Nebraska youth, while assisting in the mission of the Shrine Bowl. This year’s Masonic All-Star Marching Band was comprised of 195 musicians. Students gathered at the University of Nebraska- Kearney campus on Tuesday June 3rd and began working to perfect music and drill – practicing in excess of eight hours per day, under the direction of Brad Weber, retired director at Wayne High School, currently director of percussion at Wayne State College, Dan Sodomka from Aurora High School and Dr. Dave Bohnert from Wayne State College. Field conductors for the half-time show were Samantha Hahn, Ashley Andrews and Anna Keough, band directors at Plainview High School, Palmer High School and Crofton High School, respectively. The camp brought together the best-of-the-best high school band students from 77 high schools in Nebraska for five days of intense musical and marching practice. The band began Most Worshipful Grand Master Joe McBride is pictured with their performances with a free public concert at Harmon Park on the the Masonic Band Directors: Brad Weber, Dr. Dave Bohnert evening of Friday, June 6. On Saturday, June 7, the band marched in and Dan Sodomka the Shrine Bowl Parade in Kearney, performed the National Anthem and provided half-time entertainment for the Shrine Bowl Game at the University of Nebraska-Kearney. The Grand Lodge would well as the numerous individuals who donated their time to serve like to thank all Nebraska Blue Lodges, Eastern Star Chapters, as chaperones and band assistants at the camp this year. The camp Shrine clubs, Scottish Rite and York Rite bodies, individuals and could not be provided without the help of these very dedicated and companies that provided scholarships for the Masonic Band, as generous individuals and groups. 1

Jun14.indd 1 6/16/2014 3:52:12 PM To Light! Bringing Masonic Education to Light

grandmessage master’s [email protected]

www.facebook.com/GrandLodgeofNebraska

“Why?” Go wash your hands. Why? Please clean your friends, brothers and visitors with a hearty welcome and a warm room. Why? The wheel is round. Why? The sky is blue. Why? The handshake. Something as simple as this will be the first step in usual answer to many of those questions is a simple, “Because I gaining new members and keeping the ones we have. Not exactly said so, that’s why!!” rocket science, but surprisingly useful. If you are a parent, aunt or uncle, you have no doubt experienced So the next time you greet a new member, a candidate or any the Why syndrome. Almost every child goes through it at some visitor to your lodge, please take a second and throw your shyness time. As adults, it can drive us absolutely crazy sometimes, but it out the door. Greet them with a little warmer handshake and make is all part of the learning curve of life. My mother always said the them feel welcome. That is part of the job you signed on for. And only stupid question was the one that wasn’t asked. if that isn’t enough reason, just do it “Because I said so, that’s I believe as we advance in age and hopefully knowledge, we are why!!” approached with the question “why?” in many different ways that also help to advance our lives socially, mentally and Masonically. Every day of our active lives we are faced with new obstacles or problems that make us scratch our heads and ask, “Why?” The car won’t start. Why? The stock market fell today. Why? etc... By asking why, we learn the secrets of the world around us and hopefully make the world a little better. As I have travelled across our great state these past few years, one of the most asked questions I receive is “Why/How do you travel so much?” One answer is because this is the job I signed on for. I agreed to do it, so I do it. The real answer is one that comes from my heart. I travel because I love the brothers and all of the things that this great Fraternity stands for. So the next question is “Why are great organizations like Masonry all suffering from loss of membership and participation?” One answer is that there are too many competing entities grabbing at the same members. Another scenario is that those members or possible members are not being welcomed or do not feel like they are being welcomed with the same brotherly love and friendship that I have felt in my travels. A warm handshake and a strong pat on the back can go a long way towards first impressions when a brother or candidate visits a lodge. Many of us have a big supply ost Worshipful Joe D. McBride of shyness in our hearts. As lodge officers and members, Grand Master of Nebraska Masons we have the duty to throw that shyness aside and greet our M 2

Jun14.indd 2 6/16/2014 3:52:22 PM To Light! Bringing Masonic Education to Light

Vol XVII No. 2 A Publication of the Grand Lodge AF & AM of Nebraska Summer 2014

by Larry Jacobsen grandmessage master’s ToLight! Chapter 2 - The Next Generation The year was 1995 as Denny Brydl, chairman of the Grand substitute for idleness – if we do nothing different from what we’ve Lodge of Nebraska Masonic Education Committee, asked the been doing in Lodge we don’t have to work as hard. I don’t offer rhetorical question of “Now what do we do?” – meaning we were this as a criticism of our Lodges, but I do see it as an opportunity. on our own to craft a Masonic Education agenda for our fellow Over the past 20 years, your Grand Lodge Education Committee members. One of the first initiatives was to develop a quarterly has developed several programs: the annual Masonic Education article for the Nebraska Mason which we branded To Light! Breakfast at Grand Lodge, two Masonic Education Symposiums Bringing Masonic Education to Light. With a few fits and starts each year, a Masonic Jeopardy game that can be used to “lighten- over the past 14 years, we have now produced 66 issues of To up” an evening at Lodge, quarterly To Light! articles in The Light!, and as editor it is long past time to hand the baton (or the Nebraska Mason, St. John’s Lodge of Education that meets twice pen) to a new generation of Masonic Education enthusiasts – and a year, Masonic Education section on the Nebraska Grand Lodge there are many of them here in Nebraska. website, and other initiatives that explore the wide realm of Masonic As a transition to CHAPTER 2 (The Next Generation), allow Education. me to reflect on this trek called Masonic Education. Our Education Committee’s greatest Trends challenge is, and has been over the past Having been a Mason for 20 years, bringing a culture of Masonic 48 years, I’ve experienced Education into your Lodge. It takes two the membership trends over things to make that happen: 1) a place a long period of time. Week and time (during a Lodge meeting or after week, month after month, after), and 2) a member of your Lodge year after year, good Masons who will champion the cause. committed themselves to the Please do not take the above quality and delivery of the paragraph as some sort of mandate or ritual. When Masonry was slap on the wrist by the Grand Lodge still bringing in many new Education Committee. We know full members there was little time well that some Lodges will have the to do anything but perform the ritual for the new candidates. Older resources and time to do Masonic Education and for others it may members would tell stories of starting degree work at 5:00 p.m. be difficult to change the culture. It’s the beauty of Masonry that for those who could get off work early, and then confer degrees we promote, not some rigid framework you’re compelled to follow. into late evening. The degrees became the culture of the Lodge, What IS Masonic Education? and if there was an open night, or no degrees to confer, you would I often worry about the term Masonic Education. It conjures practice for the next degree. All this was good in terms of perfecting images of heavy reading, or being called upon to answer a question, the delivery of the ritual. or having to advance on a prescribed curriculum. The beauty of Over time, the number of new members began to diminish, so Masonic Education is none of that. I look at this way: How can a Lodge that formerly conducted a dozen degrees or more a month you be a Mason and not be inquisitive? The challenge is, where would now be three or four a month, or in smaller communities, do you start? John Robinson’s Born in Blood is an excellent book no candidates at all. And yet, the culture of the Lodge remained to start with. He lays out a whole series of interesting historical focused on the ritual and floorwork. The commitment of the events coupled with allegories and symbols and tries to connect the brethren through busy and lean years created lasting bonds of dots. I don’t agree with all his conclusions, but it certainly piqued fellowship and the tenets of friendship, morality and brotherly love my interest. Or how about Bullock’s Revolutionary Brotherhood, were imbued in all who committed themselves to the perpetuation where you learn the involvement of Masons in the Revolutionary of those values. War? Or maybe Robinson’s A Pilgrim’s Path exploring Masonry A culture is a good thing, and there’s comfort walking into and the Religious Right? Or maybe Freemasons for Dummies by a Lodge and knowing what to expect. A culture could also be a Continued on page 4... 3

Jun14.indd 3 6/16/2014 3:52:31 PM ToLight! Chapter 2, Continued from Page 3...

Christopher Hodapp, which is an easy read, but packed with good by Denny Brydl comprehensive information about the Fraternity? The more you Chairman, Grand Lodge Masonic Education Committee read, the more inquisitive you become. Who said Masonic Education has to be about books? How about a session called Masonic Dialogue, where you are part of a discussion group. How do you interpret the symbolism of the Midwest Conference on Masonic Education rough and finished ashlar? What does the universality“ of Masonry” mean? How can Masonry make you a better husband and father? The 65th Midwest Conference on Masonic Education was held The topics are endless. at Cedar Rapids, Iowa from April 11 through April 13 at the Iowa If you are privileged to be a Mason, you are part of a three- Masonic Library. Most of the Nebraska Grand Lodge Education hundred-year-old society that spans the globe and you have access Committee attended. And for the record, most of the expense was to a vast library of Masonic writings that can inspire you in many taken on by these members. The MCME consists of Iowa, Minnesota, different directions. What’s different today is that Masonry as a Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, Wisconsin, North membership organization is declining, but Masonry as a philosophy Dakota, South Dakota, Kansas, , and Manitoba, in addition has no bounds for growth. Fewer members allows more options for to Nebraska. the type of Lodge that best matches your place in Masonry. Is it Some of the speakers were S. Brent Morris, author of Complete ritual, is it fellowship, is it philosophy, or is it something new and Idiots Guide to to mention just one, and current editor untested? The future of Masonry is promising because the world of the Scottish Rite Journal; Andrew E Hammer, author of Observing needs Masonry today more than it ever has. the Craft and The Pursuit of Masonic Culture and Tradition; Shawn E. Eyer, Director of the Communications for the George Washington Applying Masonry National Memorial; Patrick C. Craddock, owner of the Craftsman The ritual by itself is not education. Masonry is Education. Apron (firm dedicated to providing high quality Masonic regalia); Mark A. Tabbert, Director of the Collections at the George Washington Take a look at the synonyms for Education: Instruction, schooling, Memorial; and of course, our favorite George Harrison, member of learning. A discipline and development by means of study and the Nebraska Grand Lodge Education Committee, who is also a past learning. Education is the development of the abilities of the Grand Lodge officer of the Grand Lodge of Iowa. mind (learning to know): a liberal education. Training is practical Shawn Eyer shared that the void in the word “education” among education (learning to do) or practice, usually under supervision, in early Masonic literature was because education was viewed as some art, trade, or profession. Learning, knowledge, enlightenment. Masonic. They did not feel it separate. Lodges were places of learning, Education and culture are often used interchangeably to mean not just Masonic learning but opportunities for likeminded men to the results of schooling. Education however, suggests chiefly the share and discuss ideas and topics. His answer was that we need not information acquired. Culture is a mode of thought and feeling invent new ways, we need to restore the old ways of education in encouraged by education. It suggests an aspiration toward, and Masonry. Such practices as posting and making more time at meetings an appreciation of high intellectual and esthetic ideals: The level to discuss what Masonry is all about. Brent Morris gave an interesting timeline of the High Degree of of culture in a country depends upon the education of its people. Masonry. The first recorded mention of the Master’s degree was in We belong to an organization called Masonry because it 1825. Over the years the terms used differed greatly. The embodies the broadest definitions of education, and through that allegory was started by Lodge No 1 in London in 1740. He covered process with the assistance of faith we can seek that narrow sliver the years from 1598 to 1801 where the Royal Secret and the 25-33 of light that we can never touch, but we can sense and be inspired degrees became the start of the Scottish Rite. by its presence. Andrew Hammer related that, in his opinion, Masonry has started Those who take on the future articles of To Light! will provide to look more at quantity of membership than quality. We are panicked a whole new spectrum on education (Masonry). I guarantee you over loss of membership. It has become somewhat of a conveyer belt will be inspired. process where the process of education is overlooked, often leading to early dropouts because new members are not getting much help in learning and understanding Masonry. He feels we need to become more selective in our process of new members and should seek only those who are committed to active Masonry. We should not lower our standards. Patrick Craddock gave a very interesting history of the origin of the Masonic apron and how it has changed over the years. Originally it was the whole skin of the animal. In the 1850s, it was fashionable to add decorations. In 1800, mass production of aprons began. By 1870, the industrial revolution marked the biggest change in production largely due to the ending of the Civil War and the rise in membership. The same thing happened after the first and second World Wars. Each State attending the conference gave an update of activity. Many are attempting to restore or upgrade their libraries. The majority are placing greater emphasis on education of new members. Train the trainer programs, directing books or other information for new members, additional time set aside for review and learning for all members. Iowa appears to lead in the role of education. Many States are also developing online learning programs.

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Jun14.indd 4 6/16/2014 3:52:33 PM MASONIC VETERANS PARTNERSHIP (MVP) GRAND MASTER by John Parsons, PGM and MVP Committee Member PRESENTS GOLD JORDAN MEDAL

Midwest Conference on Masonic Education The Masonic Veterans Partnership (MVP) is the successor program to Change for the Troops. Change for the Troops has been a great success since its inception in 2010. The goal of that program was to provide every military member from Nebraska who was deploying to Iraq or Afghanistan with a pre-paid phone card for use during their deployment. Each member of the Nebraska National Guard, Army and Air Force Reserve forces, and individual active duty Army, Air Force, Marine, and Navy members with Nebraska connections, was provided with a phone card. With the drawdown of our forces in those theaters, the need for the phone cards has been greatly reduced. We therefore had a choice: either we could eliminate the program altogether, or we could modify it a bit. We opted for the latter course. During the 2013 Annual Communication, the Grand Lodge presented a check to the Veterans Administration for the purchase of a new vehicle to transport wounded or disabled veterans to and from VA Hospitals. In May, Most Worshipful Grand Master Joe McBride presented the Gold This purchase was greatly appreciated and we intend to increase Jordan Medal to Worshipful Brother Allen W. Knott of Zion Lodge No. 234 in our charitable efforts to support our wounded and disabled veterans, Hyannis. Many members of the lodge attended the presentation, along with members of Brother Knott’s family. The Gold Jordan Medal is presented and their families. To that end, we have changed the program to the Mason in Nebraska who has been a member of the fraternity longer name to the Masonic Veterans Partnership and will look for other than any other Nebraska Mason living in the state. opportunities to provide such support, such as the purchase of another van, support to the Fisher House, or some other similar endeavor. Additionally, MVP will now be administered under the auspices Deputy Grand Custodian Retires after 50 years of of the Nebraska Masonic Foundation. Since the Nebraska Masonic Service and 60 years as a Mason Foundation is a registered 501(c)3 organization, this allows donors to claim charitable deductions for contributions to the MVP program. At the 2014 Annual Communication, the lodge was declared If any of you have suggestions for this program, please contact at recess, Helen Dye was escorted to the East along with her the committee or the Grand Lodge office. husband Worshipful Brother Art If you would like to make a donation to the Masonic Veterans Dye, and M.W. Thomas Hauder and Partnership, please make your check payable to the Nebraska M.W. PGM Scott Krieger, Grand Masonic Foundation, with MVP in the memo field, and send it to Nebraska Masonic Foundation, 301 N. Cotner Blvd, Lincoln, NE Custodian, honored Brother Dye with 68505. Thank you for your support! the status of Deputy Grand Custodian Emeritus. Brother Dye served the Cornerstone Ceremony at Grand Lodge as a Deputy Grand Custodian for 50 years and was McCook Community Hospital presented with an Emeritus apron. The assembly stood with an ovation as the presentation concluded. Additionally, on May 11, 2014, after the outdoor MM degree hosted by Mid-West Lodge No. 317 in Hastings, at the ranch of Worshipful Brother Bill Morrow, M∴W∴ Grand Master Joe McBride presented W∴B∴ Art Dye with his 60-year pin and certificate. Art’s wife Helen stood by Art’s side, as she has for many years, and was pleased to place Art’s pin on his shirt. Art was understandably touched by the occasion and he has said many times that if it wasn’t for Helen pushing him to become a Mason, he didn’t know where On May 16, the Grand Lodge Officers performed a cornerstone ceremony at the Anderson Oncology Center of the McCook Community Hospital. he would be now. Congratulations Andy Anderson, a long-time member of McCook Lodge No. 135, and his Helen and Art Dye, MWGM Joe McBride are family were significant financial contributors of the newly built oncology surrounded by the Brethren of Mid-West Lodge Worshipful Brother center. No. 317 in front of W∴B∴ Bill Morrow’s home. Art! 5

Jun14.indd 5 6/16/2014 3:52:35 PM The Nebraska Masonic Home Mary C. Stapp, Executive Director

General Donations (February 22, 2014 - May 22, 2014) Tregan and Debra Albers, Ginny Anderson, Betty Avery, Larry and Joyce Bennett, Robert C. Bennett, Steve and Lynda Bennett, Ashley Our Special Thanks are Extended to. . . Bernu, Kenneth Bolas, William and Genell Brooks, Rick and Shirley Burmeister, F. David Cappell, Henry and Cathy Carnaby, Bradley F. Nebraska Order of Eastern Star. An extra special thank you goes out to all the subordinate Cate, Clarence Christensen Jr., Chris N. Clark, Richard L. Clark, Tom and Cheryl Dasher, Marion Davies, Marcia C. Davis, William R. chapters from the residents, staff, and Board of Trustees of The Nebraska Masonic Home. Your Dodge, Eugene G. Edwards, Lyle C. Emery Sr., Eldon O. Ford, Kari Franklin, Okley H. Gibbs Sr., Herbert T. Goodrich, Ruth Goodwin, donations, visits to our residents throughout the year, bingo prize donations, birthday, anniversary, Jack and Mae Hill, Lloyd and Donna Hinkley, Richard B. Hobson, Floyd and Marlene Holmgrain Jr., Michael Horton, John and Barbara and Christmas cards and many more kind deeds do not go unrecognized. The support from Nebraska Husebo, Ray and Mary Johansen, Michael J. Kacere, James Kruse, Richard C. Larson, Richard and Elizabeth Leitschuck, Phillip and Eastern Star is remarkable, and you are to be commended. Sandy Logan, Dale G. Lueders, Don and Joyce Maxted, Ed Morava, Patricia Mosier, Robert and Kathryn Muehling, Ritch A. Nelson, Jim We sincerely thank Past Grand Matron Bev Donham and Past Grand Patron Jim Dusch as well as the Nebraska Grand Family and their companions for their support of The Nebraska Masonic and Marcia Ochsner, Osceola Lodge No. 65, Loren E. Page, Joseph and Janet Petty, Robert R. Phillip, Raymond and Jeanne Poage, Donna Home this last year. You should be very proud of the very successful year you just completed. J. Rector, Madine Roberts, Ronny and Kim Roberts, Joan Rogers, Ralph and Jane Ross, Dan and Patricia Scarborough, Roger D. Schuller, -Mary C. Stapp, Executive Director Scottish Rite Foundation, Michael and Teresa Shearer, Dean and Nancy Skokan, Delmar and Janet Smith, Mark A. Smith, Margaret Sorensen, Stacy and Judy Stasenka, Tangier Road Runners Club, David and Margie Thomssen, James and Patty Tische, Ben and Marilyn Vrana, Rex and Denise Waller, David and Birgit White, Emory and Verlee Wickstrom, Bob and Donna Wiegand, Al and Lori Willett. Honorarium Donations (February 22, 2014 - May 22, 2014) Kirk Brown (Shirley D. Frink), Bev Pickering (Sunset Chapter No. 300), Claudia Ranselm (Wayne Chapter No. 194), Robert O. Rhodes (anonymous). Memorial Donations (November 19, 2013 - May 22, 2014) John Binning (Liberty Lodge No. 300), Arliss Brown (Vesper Chapter No. 9), Halden Brown (Vesper Chapter No. 9), Betty Brunkhorst (Mt. Vernon Chapter No. 84), Richard Burkland (Liberty Lodge No. 300), James Campbell (Nebraska Lodge No.1), Lois Clark (John and Evelyn Dixon Jr., Home Chapter No. 189), Patricia Clark (Vesper Chapter No. 9), Lawrence H. Clay (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Glenn “Bummy” H. Davey (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Haldean M. Deaver (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Reah Marie Dittoe (Mt. Vernon Chapter No. 84), Shirley Dorsey (Temple Chapter No. 271), Roger Eschliman (Dorcas Chapter No. 144), Charles Evans (Lowell and Mary Lou Erickson, Home Chapter No. 189), J. B. Fischer (Samuel Fischer, Claire V. McHenry, Jack and Terri McHenry, Michele To), Betty Fuxa (Rick and Shirley Burmeister), Anita Gillespie (Ceresco Chapter No. 198), Denver Gray (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Wilma Henderson (Alan and Alyce Berk, Roger and Diane Carlon, Albert L. Chatfi eld, Viola I. Gabel, Myron Hunt, Don and Elaine Kemper, Dianne Krantz, Carl and Nancy Linden, Craig and Glenda Price, Raymond and Trudy Supalla), Ivan Hevelone (Liberty Lodge No. 300), John Hobbs (Papillion Lodge No. 1, Cullen Pilker), Katherine Hobscheidt (Doris Hirz), Erleen Horton (John and Connie Worrell), Edna House (Charles and Ruby House), Ruby Hummel ( Shirley D. Frink), George Isaac (Liberty Lodge No. 300), E. Newton Kelly (James and Jeanne Karnegis), Joann Krapp (Clarence L. Krapp), Richard W. Kruse (John and Sydney Kruse), Charles Kubich (Roxie L. Beaton, Terry and Susan Buresh, James A. Carlton, Steve and Rita Hurlbutt, Richard and Judith Nieman, John and Mi Games and fun were in abundance at the Spring Yong Sheffi eld, Kathleen Joyner Wood), Ruby Lancaster (Ed and Carolyn Bredemeier, Gene A. Geise, Duane and Roxie Heim, Keith Party. As you can see, Harriet and Barbara thoroughly enjoyed the party. and Corky Herbster, Richard and Beverly Higgins, Doris N. Hirz, Home Chapter No. 189, Jean Howland, Dona Y. Hurst, James and Jeanne Karnegis, Robert D. Keckler, Martha McQuin-Jones, Betty L. Mears, Dave and Sonia Meredith, DeWayne and Pat Noell, Ed and Linda Nolte, Marylou Nutzman, Richard and Mary Jo Osterholm, Robert and Roma Rhodes, Margaret E. Rylander, Deloras Shanholtz, Bob was the recipient of a treat Roy and Sharon Smith, Margaret Sorenson, Jan E. Thoman, Dorothy E. Todd, Cathy J. Wagner, Fred and Elizabeth Wyant, Eleanor S. from the Easter Bunnies. York), Marlin Larson (Liberty Lodge No. 300), George W. Lininger (Hugh and Linda Minor), Velma Lord (Bob and Belva Hanna), Robert Lueder (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Emanual Luft (Liberty Lodge No. 300), Garth McAdoo (Duard and Lois Dempster), Richard D. McCaffree (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Fred McDaniel (Liberty Lodge No. 300), David P. Meisinger (Janet A. Meisinger), Don R. Miller (David A. Portwood), Joan Marie West Minor (Hugh and Linda Minor), Shirley Mlinek (Edine M. Limpach, Kim Russel and Dirk Brom), Bruce Mordick (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Elmer Morse (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Richard Oliva (David A. Portwood), Harriet Olson (Lowell and Mary Lou Erickson), Ralph A. Parkening (Duane and Roxie Heim, Deloras Shanholtz), Carmen Pearson (Myrtle Chapter No. 94), Velma Pierce (Edith Nielsen), Ardith Pilker (Carl and Willa Barney, Charles and Ellen Binge, Edwin and Judy Blum, Phyllis Cain, Jeffrey and Brenda Coleman, Hollis and Jacqueline Cook, Gene A Geise, Frank and Jewel Hall, Richard and Beverly Higgins, David Kippen and Claire Chang, Victor and Marcia Matthies, Gilbert F. McDonell, Jill and Chris Nielsen, Kristi Nimick, Ed and Linda Nolte, Papillion No. 114 Kensington, Carol A. Pilker-Van Hofwegen, Tom and Susan Tiehen, Hal E. Waller, Jerrie B. Wilcox, Wilbert and Delores Wittmuss), Frances Platt (Elizabeth Chapter No. 250), Keith Rasmussen (Shirley D. Frink, Karl and Annette Rasmussen IV), Lois I. Rich (Gene A. Geise, Robert D. Keckler), Stuart Schlichtemier (Home Chapter No. 189), Ival Schmucker (Robert and Carol Schmucker), Clifford Shaffer (Luke and Sandra Aldy Jr., Brent and Amy Bench, Jarod and Amanda Blackburn, Edward Brittenham, Elaine Campbell, Robert and Tanis Diedrichs, George and Joan Duhacek, Dean and Susan Hokanson Jr., Jack and Frances Jensen, Kris and Tim Johnk, Jeff Jorgensen, Kelly and Tammy Kleymann, Frank J. Kubat, Sonia and David Meredith, Robert D. Mueller, Mutual of Omaha, Nebraska Lodge No. 1, Steven and Lisa Pike, George and Lenore Rambour, Barbara Sommer, Mrs. James Uhlmann, James and Janet Vanderveld, Curtis and Lynne Wees), Jim Sharp (Custer Lodge No. 148), Richard R. Smith (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), LaVon Speck (Duane and Roxie Heim, Doris Hirz, Home Chapter No. 189, Dean and Marilynn Meisinger, Richard and Mary Jo Osterholm, Jan E. Thoman, Gene and Judy Wehrbein), Edward Stewart (Liberty Lodge No. 300), Eunice M. Stuckey (David A. Portwood), Wes Turtscher (Papillion Lodge No. 39, Cullen F. Pilker), Betty Walker (Tekamah Chapter No. 131), Charles Our Volunteers are a very important part of the residents’ lives here at Whitehead (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Dorothy Marie Wiggins (Barney F. Pelant, Margaret Proctor), Bernard Wolf (Nebraska Lodge No. The Masonic Home. We are fortunate to have employees, residents, 1). Visit us at our website! John provides after meal musical entertainment and community members as part of our volunteer program. thenebraskamasonichome.org after every meal for the residents. 6

Jun14.indd 6 6/16/2014 3:52:36 PM Mary C. Stapp, Executive Director The Nebraska Masonic Home Foundation Jo Peters, Director

General Donations (February 22, 2014 - May 22, 2014) Tregan and Debra Albers, Ginny Anderson, Betty Avery, Larry and Joyce Bennett, Robert C. Bennett, Steve and Lynda Bennett, Ashley Bernu, Kenneth Bolas, William and Genell Brooks, Rick and Shirley Burmeister, F. David Cappell, Henry and Cathy Carnaby, Bradley F. Cate, Clarence Christensen Jr., Chris N. Clark, Richard L. Clark, Tom and Cheryl Dasher, Marion Davies, Marcia C. Davis, William R. Dodge, Eugene G. Edwards, Lyle C. Emery Sr., Eldon O. Ford, Kari Franklin, Okley H. Gibbs Sr., Herbert T. Goodrich, Ruth Goodwin, Jack and Mae Hill, Lloyd and Donna Hinkley, Richard B. Hobson, Floyd and Marlene Holmgrain Jr., Michael Horton, John and Barbara Husebo, Ray and Mary Johansen, Michael J. Kacere, James Kruse, Richard C. Larson, Richard and Elizabeth Leitschuck, Phillip and Sandy Logan, Dale G. Lueders, Don and Joyce Maxted, Ed Morava, Patricia Mosier, Robert and Kathryn Muehling, Ritch A. Nelson, Jim and Marcia Ochsner, Osceola Lodge No. 65, Loren E. Page, Joseph and Janet Petty, Robert R. Phillip, Raymond and Jeanne Poage, Donna J. Rector, Madine Roberts, Ronny and Kim Roberts, Joan Rogers, Ralph and Jane Ross, Dan and Patricia Scarborough, Roger D. Schuller, Scottish Rite Foundation, Michael and Teresa Shearer, Dean and Nancy Skokan, Delmar and Janet Smith, Mark A. Smith, Margaret Sorensen, Stacy and Judy Stasenka, Tangier Road Runners Club, David and Margie Thomssen, James and Patty Tische, Ben and Marilyn Vrana, Rex and Denise Waller, David and Birgit White, Emory and Verlee Wickstrom, Bob and Donna Wiegand, Al and Lori Willett. Honorarium Donations (February 22, 2014 - May 22, 2014) Kirk Brown (Shirley D. Frink), Bev Pickering (Sunset Chapter No. 300), Claudia Ranselm (Wayne Chapter No. 194), Robert O. Rhodes (anonymous). Memorial Donations (November 19, 2013 - May 22, 2014) John Binning (Liberty Lodge No. 300), Arliss Brown (Vesper Chapter No. 9), Halden Brown (Vesper Chapter No. 9), Betty Brunkhorst (Mt. Vernon Chapter No. 84), Richard Burkland (Liberty Lodge No. 300), James Campbell (Nebraska Lodge No.1), Lois Clark (John and Evelyn Dixon Jr., Home Chapter No. 189), Patricia Clark (Vesper Chapter No. 9), Lawrence H. Clay (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Glenn “Bummy” H. Davey (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Haldean M. Deaver (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Reah Marie Dittoe (Mt. Vernon Chapter No. 84), Shirley Dorsey (Temple Chapter No. 271), Roger Eschliman (Dorcas Chapter No. 144), Charles Evans (Lowell and Mary Lou Erickson, Home Chapter No. 189), J. B. Fischer (Samuel Fischer, Claire V. McHenry, Jack and Terri McHenry, Michele To), Betty Fuxa (Rick and Shirley Burmeister), Anita Gillespie (Ceresco Chapter No. 198), Denver Gray (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Wilma Henderson (Alan and Alyce Berk, Roger and Diane Carlon, Albert L. Chatfi eld, Viola I. Gabel, Myron Hunt, Don and Elaine Kemper, Dianne Krantz, Carl and Nancy Linden, Craig and Glenda Price, Raymond and Trudy Supalla), Ivan Hevelone (Liberty Lodge No. 300), John Hobbs (Papillion Lodge No. 1, Cullen Pilker), Katherine Hobscheidt (Doris Hirz), Erleen Horton (John and Connie Worrell), Edna House (Charles and Ruby House), Ruby Hummel ( Shirley D. Frink), George Isaac (Liberty Lodge No. 300), E. Newton Kelly (James and Jeanne Karnegis), Joann Krapp (Clarence L. Krapp), Richard W. Kruse (John and Sydney Kruse), Charles Kubich (Roxie L. Beaton, Terry and Susan Buresh, James A. Carlton, Steve and Rita Hurlbutt, Richard and Judith Nieman, John and Mi Yong Sheffi eld, Kathleen Joyner Wood), Ruby Lancaster (Ed and Carolyn Bredemeier, Gene A. Geise, Duane and Roxie Heim, Keith and Corky Herbster, Richard and Beverly Higgins, Doris N. Hirz, Home Chapter No. 189, Jean Howland, Dona Y. Hurst, James and Jeanne Karnegis, Robert D. Keckler, Martha McQuin-Jones, Betty L. Mears, Dave and Sonia Meredith, DeWayne and Pat Noell, Ed and Linda Nolte, Marylou Nutzman, Richard and Mary Jo Osterholm, Robert and Roma Rhodes, Margaret E. Rylander, Deloras Shanholtz, Roy and Sharon Smith, Margaret Sorenson, Jan E. Thoman, Dorothy E. Todd, Cathy J. Wagner, Fred and Elizabeth Wyant, Eleanor S. York), Marlin Larson (Liberty Lodge No. 300), George W. Lininger (Hugh and Linda Minor), Velma Lord (Bob and Belva Hanna), Robert Lueder (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Emanual Luft (Liberty Lodge No. 300), Garth McAdoo (Duard and Lois Dempster), Richard D. McCaffree (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Fred McDaniel (Liberty Lodge No. 300), David P. Meisinger (Janet A. Meisinger), Don R. Miller (David A. Portwood), Joan Marie West Minor (Hugh and Linda Minor), Shirley Mlinek (Edine M. Limpach, Kim Russel and Dirk Brom), Bruce Mordick (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Elmer Morse (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Richard Oliva (David A. Portwood), Harriet Olson (Lowell and Mary Lou Erickson), Ralph A. Parkening (Duane and Roxie Heim, Deloras Shanholtz), Carmen Pearson (Myrtle Chapter No. 94), Velma Pierce (Edith Nielsen), Ardith Pilker (Carl and Willa Barney, Charles and Ellen Binge, Edwin and Judy Blum, Phyllis Cain, Jeffrey and Brenda Coleman, Hollis and Jacqueline Cook, Gene A Geise, Frank and Jewel Hall, Richard and Beverly Higgins, David Kippen and Claire Chang, Victor and Marcia Matthies, Gilbert F. McDonell, Jill and Chris Nielsen, Kristi Nimick, Ed and Linda Nolte, Papillion No. 114 Kensington, Carol A. Pilker-Van Hofwegen, Tom and Susan Tiehen, Hal E. Waller, Jerrie B. Wilcox, Wilbert and Delores Wittmuss), Frances Platt (Elizabeth Chapter No. 250), Keith Rasmussen (Shirley D. Frink, Karl and Annette Rasmussen IV), Lois I. Rich (Gene A. Geise, Robert D. Keckler), Stuart Schlichtemier (Home Chapter No. 189), Ival Schmucker (Robert and Carol Schmucker), Clifford Shaffer (Luke and Sandra Aldy Jr., Brent and Amy Bench, Jarod and Amanda Blackburn, Edward Brittenham, Elaine Campbell, Robert and Tanis Diedrichs, George and Joan Duhacek, Dean and Susan Hokanson Jr., Jack and Frances Jensen, Kris and Tim Johnk, Jeff Jorgensen, Kelly and Tammy Kleymann, Frank J. Kubat, Sonia and David Meredith, Robert D. Mueller, Mutual of Omaha, Nebraska Lodge No. 1, Steven and Lisa Pike, George and Lenore Rambour, Barbara Sommer, Mrs. James Uhlmann, James and Janet Vanderveld, Curtis and Lynne Wees), Jim Sharp (Custer Lodge No. 148), Richard R. Smith (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), LaVon Speck (Duane and Roxie Heim, Doris Hirz, Home Chapter No. 189, Dean and Marilynn Meisinger, Richard and Mary Jo Osterholm, Jan E. Thoman, Gene and Judy Wehrbein), Edward Stewart (Liberty Lodge No. 300), Eunice M. Stuckey (David A. Portwood), Wes Turtscher (Papillion Lodge No. 39, Cullen F. Pilker), Betty Walker (Tekamah Chapter No. 131), Charles Whitehead (Nebraska Lodge No. 1), Dorothy Marie Wiggins (Barney F. Pelant, Margaret Proctor), Bernard Wolf (Nebraska Lodge No. 1).

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Jun14.indd 7 6/16/2014 3:52:36 PM MASONICHOME EASTERN FOR CHILDREN STAR

by Ron Giesselmann, Executive Director Second Semester I’m proud to report that the children experienced many forms Everyone got involved in the Easter egg toss competition. of success during the second semester of school at the Children’s Crystal and Xoe won. Home. During the third quarter of school, the campus Grade Point Average was 3.24 on a 4.0 maximum scale. Eight out of 32 children earned straight A’s, and numerous children earned Teacher’s Choice awards. The end of winter sports and spring sports kept everyone busy. Children participated in basketball, wrestling, soccer, and track. Nate was a top ten discus thrower in the State of Nebraska. Children got started on their 4-H projects during the winter and spring months. They started their ceramic, gardening, and calf projects. They participated in the Dodge County 4-H Speech Contest. Eight children will participate in the District 4-H Speech Contest. At the end of the summer, children will have the opportunity to show off their 4-H projects during Achievement Day. Please consider bringing members of your lodge to this event August 9, 2014. A complimentary lunch will be served at noon.The program McKenzie was one starts at 1:30 p.m. of three children who Josina, Lauren and Danielle helped participated in track this plant the 4-H garden. year.

Sky, Cynthia, Caira and Tyler graduated from high school. Tyler, Nathan, Steven, Sky, Cynthia and Cara had a great time at Prom and Devon and Reynaldo put wire on the post-Prom. fence to keep rabbits out of the garden. 8

Jun14.indd 8 6/16/2014 3:52:39 PM GRAND CHAPTER OF NEBRASKA ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR

MASONIC EASTERN STAR by Beverly Donham, 2013-14 Worthy Grand Matron Dear Masonic Family... session of Grand Chapter. I also Wow! What an enthusiastic and fun year the “Stars across served on the Board of the Masonic-Eastern the Prairie” Eastern Star Grand Family had traveling across our Star Home for Children with both Tom Hauder and then Joe beautiful state and attending the various Masonic activities. McBride. It was an honor to represent Nebraska OES by serving It has been a pleasure for me to represent Nebraska Grand on the Board as Worthy Grand Matron. Chapter Order of the Eastern Star this past year. The first portion of On Wednesday evening of Grand Chapter, everyone was the 2013 – 2014 Grand Chapter year was spent meeting Past Grand entertained by the children from the Masonic-Eastern Star Home Master Tom Hauder and Lady Ann at several activities - Masonic for Children. Their fantastic rendition of American Baseball songs All-Star Band Camp and Shrine Bowl Parade; Grand Assembly was outstanding. Again, note the enthusiasm. Don’t we wish that we for the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls; Grand Bethel could bottle up this enthusiasm and take it to our Lodge and Chapter for Nebraska Job’s Daughters International; DeMolay Conclave; meetings! Again on Wednesday evening at Grand Chapter we were Masonic Charities Golf Tournament; the Alzheimer’s Walk in pleased to initiate five members from our Youth Groups – one from Omaha and Grand Lodge just to name a few. What fun we had Rainbow, three from Job’s Daughters and one DeMolay. There greeting everyone and especially enjoying the ENTHUSIASM of were to have been nine originally but due to finals, District track our Youth Groups. meets and a work schedule, things just didn’t work out. There are In February, I attended Grand Lodge and witnessed the four chapters that will be able to initiate these young members into Installation of a dear friend, Grand Master Joe McBride and Lady our Order. Please join with me in welcoming our newest members. Lori. Again, we met at Grand York Rite and then in May at our Thursday was a special day as we honored our members of 50 Grand Chapter Session. I was pleased to welcome Joe and Lady years or more. What a joy to greet each of them and get a special Lori. I was honored to have Grand Master Joe sing at the opening hug. When you add the total number of years of devotion to our Order, the numbers are OUTSTANDING! Thursday evening, May 15, was the Installation of the 2014- 2015 Grand Chapter Officers as they began their “Music of the Stars” Grand Chapter year. I know that they will enjoy every minute of their travels as those of the 2013-14 Year. Congratulations!

Children from the Masonic-Eastern Star Beverly Donham, WGM and Jim Dusch, Home for Children perform at Grand WGP and the new members Chapter

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT NEBRASKA’S ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR? CHECK US OUT ONLINE AT HTTP://NEOES.ORG OR FIND US ON FACEBOOK!

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Jun14.indd 9 6/16/2014 3:52:40 PM Debbie Parks-Grand Guardian, Bruce Anderson-Associate Grand Guardian Rachel Duckett-Grand Bethel Honored Queen, Michael W. Stuhr, Executive Director Taylor Knipp-Miss Nebraska Job’s Daughter, Alyssa Vance-Miss Nebraska Congeniality Article by Adam Medley, 93rd State Master Councilor NEBRASKA JOB’S DAUGHTERS A greeting from Nebraska DeMolay. Since the last issue, Nebraska DeMolay has had our annual Round-Up in Kearney. It was a special weekend and we had some incredible out-of-state guests. For our readers who have never heard of our spring Round-Up, it is an event where many of our chapters throughout the state gather in Kearney for some friendly We are very excited that our Grand Session is this month. sporting competitions, bonding, and a statewide initiation. Sports we play We will be in Kearney at the Younes Conference Center, June include: basketball, soccer, volleyball, bowling, billiards, and mini-golf. 25-28, 2014 for our Individually Unique, Together Complete We had two good friends of mine visit us from out of state. Garison Grand Session. Carrell from Oklahoma is the Region Six Representative and Past State Our daughters have worked hard for all the competitions and Master Councilor of Oklahoma, and Chris LaBaw from New Jersey is look forward to seeing old friends and making new friends during the International Congress Secretary and Past State Master Councilor of this time. We would love to see as many of you as possible at our New Jersey. They came in for the weekend, joined in the competitions Grand Session. Thursday, June 26, is our Formal Opening. Friday, and took part in the degrees as well. It was unique for the candidates to June 27, we will hold our annual Grand Bethel Meeting, followed have an international officer to take part in their initiation, and a memory by our Awards and Banquet Night. We wrap things up on Saturday, I hope will last a lifetime. June 28 with the Installation Each year at Round-Up we award a Brotherhood award to the DeMolay of New Grand Bethel Officers, who stands out the most by good sportsmanship and just being an all Grand Bethel Representatives, around great DeMolay brother. We had a young man from Ft. Kearney Spirit Ambassadors, Daughter chapter who was a great sport in every game no matter the outcome. He HIKE Coordinators, and Grand also being the only member from his chapter in attendance would jump in Officers for the 2014-15 year. to help other chapters in sports. This young man was Cory Morgan. Also at We have enjoyed our time Round-Up we award a Rodeo of Sports award to the chapter that wins the as your Grand Family this most points by placing in the competitions. Three points for first, two points year. We especially enjoyed the for second, and one point for third; this award went to Ft. Sidney Chapter. fellowship with our Masonic Looking forward to the end of my term, we have our annual Conclave Family at Grand Lodge, Grand coming up. This year Conclave will be held in Lincoln on the 11th, 12th, Chapter and Grand York Rite. and 13th of July. We will be visiting Pioneers Park, going bowling at Sun We thank you for all courtesies Valley Lanes, and of course holding our State Sweetheart Ball. We will also extended to us. We look forward be holding a ‘mini-relay’ in support for our philanthropy, Relay for Life. to attending Shrine Bowl and Conclave is Nebraska DeMolay’s biggest event of the year. The location Grand Assembly with our and events are planned by the State Master Councilor and typically change Rainbow Sisters. from year to year. I chose Lincoln for my Conclave for a couple reasons. First, it’s my home - what better place to hold one of the biggest events in --Rachel Duckett, Grand Bethel Honored Queen; Taylor Knipp, Miss Nebraska Job’s Daughter; Alyssa Vance, Miss Nebraska Congeniality; my life than home; and second, it’s where I was installed as State Junior Debbie Parks, Grand Guardian and Bruce Anderson, Associate Grand Councilor almost three years ago. I thought it would be fitting to begin and Guardian end my journey as a symbol of leadership for the young Would you or someone you know men of DeMolay here. I hope many of you will come like more information on our youth join us for our weekend of brotherhood. Lastly, I want organizations? to thank everyone for their support and guidance these past three years. I have met www.jdne.org many wonderful individuals and formed bonds that will www.nedemolay.org/ last a lifetime. Thank you all! Keene Chapter (Fremont), DeMolay State www.nedemolay.org/Blog/ Volleyball Champions

Twitter: @Region5DeMolay What do you suppose Facebook: Nebraska DeMolay these DeMolays have in mind for Dad www.nebraskarainbowgirls.com/ Stuhr?

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Jun14.indd 10 6/16/2014 3:52:44 PM Pamela McLeod, Grand Worthy Advisor Betty Garwood, Supreme Deputy INTERNATIONAL ORDER OF THE RAINBOW FOR GIRLS

Meet the new Grand Worthy Advisor for 5th Triennial 2014-2015. Miss Pamela asonic outh eadership onference McLeod of Lincoln is a M Y L C vivacious and phenomenal member of Lincoln September 27-28, 2014 Assembly No. 6. For her theme, Pamela has chosen Kearney, Nebraska “Be Phenomenal” based upon the poem “Phenomenal Woman” by Maya Angelou From the Masonic Youth Foundation of Nebraska:

from which her motto “I am th a woman, phenomenally.” We are pleased to announce that planning for the 5 Triennial is quoted. A giant panda Masonic Youth Conference is well underway. The conference named “Peaches” will be will be held at the Holiday Inn in Kearney on September 27 the mascot and the symbol and 28, 2014. We have booked Josh Shipp as the featured is a peacock. Colors of plum speaker. He is returning from an appearance at the 3rd purple, princess pink and conference, and he is without a doubt the most popular and periwinkle will color the Rainbow activities for the new year. inspiring speaker we have ever had. Service projects will be Friendship Home, a safe house for victims of domestic violence in Lincoln and American Foundation for The weekend is filled with motivational presentations, Suicide Prevention with national headquarters in Omaha. Pamela service projects, fun, and fellowship. We anticipate about has innovative ideas and plans to make Membership a high 400 attendees. Please accept our thanks for your (or your priority. Watch for further details in future newsletters and be organization’s) donations to make this conference possible. expecting a phenomenal year. In July, Pamela will be participating and representing Nebraska in the Cavalcade of Flags and the Or, if you haven’t yet contributed, hear our plea for making jurisdictional skits at Supreme Assembly. a donation now. As a new year starts, the old year concludes but the Rainbow experiences are not over for Jr. Past Grand Worthy Advisor Shelby Our youth are our future. This is especially true when it’s Walsh. After a successful Grand Assembly, Shelby has another our Masonic youth. This is one occasion when Masonic year before taking her majority and will continue to serve Grand adults and Masonic Assembly as a Junior Member of the Grand Executive Board. This youth directly interface is a Supreme Assembly year and Shelby has also been appointed and get to know each the Supreme Page to the Supreme Worthy Associate Advisor other. Please see the Mrs. Cora-Ellen Moody of Maine and will serve at the Supreme website on GLNE.org Session held in Baltimore, MD. She will also prepare and give the (philanthropies link) for Tribute to the Christian Flag at the opening of Supreme Assembly. information on making Shelby says it has been an amazing year. She joined with the other Masonic Youth leaders in preforming a program which included your tax-deductible portions of the flower ceremonies of all three youth organizations donation. at Grand Chapter of Eastern Star in May. The youth all appeared on the Grand Chapter floor at the same time presenting an interactive dialog during the ceremony. These outstanding young women are only two examples of the Josh Shipp will be international theme that “Rainbow Gets Girls Ready for Life!” a featured speaker There are opportunities for any girl from 11 to 20 to be a Rainbow at the MYLC in Girl and enjoy the many benefits of our Order. September.

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Jun14.indd 11 6/16/2014 3:52:45 PM 50, 60 and 70 Year Membership Awards BRONZE JORDAN MEDAL AWARD

Rex E. Arrowsmith, 224 Leland I. Lawrence, 194 Frederick A. Atkinson, 54 Philip A. Lorenzen, 10 Lancaster 50 Kenneth N. Barnard, 79 Harry P. Lortz, 251 Lodge No. 54 in Max J. Bartruff, 61 James D. McFerren, 50 Dwight L. Bash, 146 Gary R. McHargue, 36 Lincoln performed a Bronze W. Charles Bush, 135 Murland D. Nelson, 61 Jordan Medal courtesy presentation Alfred N. Cochran, Jr., 50 David L. Rigg, 297 for Lone Tree Lodge No. 36 in Central Glenn M. Cowan, 293 Richard D. Roth, 195 City. Brother William R. Raecke Eugene F. Cunningham, 34 Wendell D. Ruth, 51 Philip E. Darby, Jr., 61 Gene L. Salisbury, 19 lives in Lincoln and has been a dual David J. Friis, 51 Richard A. Schlaman, 33 member of Lancaster Lodge since Gerald M. Gleason, 36 Elva L. Simpson, 146 1991. W\B\ Shane Rhian, Master of James L. Hubbard, 39 Frank J. Srb, 34 Lancaster Lodge, presented the medal Richard A. Jolliffe, 265 Darrel W. Steele, Sr., 224 to Brother Raecke on March 7 at a Doyle D. Kernes, 297 Tony E. Thulin, 146 Alfred C. Koops, 251 Richard L. Trail, 135 regular communication of the lodge. Irl R. Lautenschlager, 54 Henry S. Whitehead, Jr., 102 Newman Grove No. 305 presented Harold L. Gerhart, Jr. with Richard W. Beaman, 19 Merle L. Lange, 4 the Bronze Jordan Medal on July James A. Biba, 79 Warren B. Lawson, 19 22nd, 2013. Bill Raecke receives the 60 Wendal L. Busboom, 50 Kenneth L. Linafelter, 297 Donald L. Calkins, 146 Howard W. Mayberry, 251 Brother Joseph F. Fiala, Jr. was Bronze Jordan Medal from Gene R. Chase, 265 James E. Mote, 146 presented with the Bronze Jordan Shane Rhian. Rolland G. Engelhardt, 50 Merle F. Oxley, 251 Medal for Bee Hive Lodge No. 184 Jay D. Haviland, 297 Robert W. Rosenquist, 41 in Omaha at a Past Master’s dinner in Robert B. Jacobs, 323 Kenneth H. Scheidt, 265 Charles E. Johnson, 146 Billy B. Watkins, 159 October 2013. Wayne D. Kemper, 50 James L. Wickstrom, 83 Brother Merle F. Oxley, a member of Wausa Lodge No. Robert D. Lafler, 75 251, received his 60-year membership award in March. Wilbur A. Black, 146 Brother Oxley made a career in the United States Navy, 70 Robert W. Hartley, 265 making seven round trips to Vietnam between 1964 and Robert W. Wood, 195 1971. Upon retirement, he lived in California and now Texas, but says that he “is still a Cornhusker!” On May 5, Robert W. Furnas Lodge No. 265 in Scottsbluff had the privilege of presenting year pins to a member in each category of longevity – 50, 60 & WB Richard Trail of McCook Lodge 70. Pictured are W.B. John B. Ferguson, Grand Senior Steward, No. 135 received a 50-year pin in April WB Richard A. Jolliffe, 50-year member, B. Kenneth H. Scheidt, at the regular lodge communication. 60-year member, B. Robert W. Hartley, 70-year member, and Pictured are WB Bruce Swanson Dick WM Frank Wooden. Trail, standing with his wife Ann, and Worshipful Master Greg Fyn. Grand Junior Warden Rick Myers presented a 60-year pin to Brother James A. Biba on behalf of Geneva Lodge No. 79. Members of Cotner Lodge No. 297 in Lincoln (WB Ralph Riemann, WM Jerry Pigsley, WB John Quinn, Dan Petersen, and WB Dietrick Frye) W Brother Howard W. Mayberry (left) presented a 60-year membership received a 60-year membership award pin/certificate to Bro. John Grady, from W.M. Robert Olson of Wausa with John’s wife, Maxine, at his side. Lodge No. 251.

Thistle Lodge No. Brother Robert Jacobs of 61 in Lexington Columbus received his 60- recognized three year pin from wife Sylvia in a members at the presentation during the Pawnee membership Shrine Club meeting on April 7. awards dinner Presiding during the presentation on April 24. was Grand Master of Masons in Grand Master Nebraska Joe McBride. Jacobs Joe McBride and was raised to the degree of Grand Junior Master Mason on Nov. 9, 1953, Steward Kevin and is a member of Lebanon Lindly were on Lodge 323 in Columbus. hand to make the 50-year pin presentations. Pictured are MW McBride, Phil Darby, Max Bartruff, Murland Nelson, and GJS Lindly. 12

Jun14.indd 12 6/16/2014 3:52:50 PM BRONZE JORDAN MEDAL AWARD LODGE PROGRAMS Membership Workshop UPCOMING GRAND

Entered Apprentice Ritual Contest

September 20, 2014, North Platte Saturday, July 26, 2014 October 4, 2014, Lincoln 8:30 - 11:30 am

A team of three judges, led by the Grand Custodian, will Grand Lodge Office judge all competition. The decisions of the judges are final, 301 N. Cotner Blvd., Lincoln with the decision of the Grand Custodian being the ultimate RSVP to [email protected] word should the need arise. This workshop is open to all Masons. At a minimum, What is being judged? the Grand Lodge requests that each Blue Lodge send a Accuracy of the spoken ritual; Accuracy of the floorwork; Brother from their Membership Sustaining Committee. Quality of the overall presentation of the degree. What is required to participate? All team members will compete wearing a jacket and tie, Rusty Nail Degree apron and jewel. Each team will provide a candidate. (Candidate does not need to be clothed and hoodwinked.) Mosaic Lodge No. 55, 907 W. Norfolk Avenue A team consists of all officers, including Secretary and July 26, 2014 - 4:00 pm Tyler. The Senior Deacon leaves the lodge room for the constitutional questions and the preparatory address, but Platte Valley Lodge No. 32, 1600 W B St they are not delivered. The candidate does not need to repeat the obligation. The competition begins with the declaration October 11, 2014 - 4:00 pm and ends when the working tool lecture has been completed. The lights will remain at full brightness during the entire Ashlar Lodge No. 33, 417 W 3rd St completion for the benefit of the judges. December 6, 2014 - 4:00 pm Who may participate? A team may pull members of another lodge, but members Omaha (location TBD) of the joining lodge may only participate on one team. (i.e.: March 15, 2014 Members of Fremont 15 could not send some participants to North Bend 119 and some to Acacia 34.) If a lodge has Please RSVP to the Grand Lodge Office enough qualified members to form a full team, the remaining members of that lodge may join one other lodge team. 402-475-4640, or to [email protected] Grand Lodge Officers and Deputy Grand Custodians are ineligible to participate on a team. (They would make great Leadership Conference coaches.) What is the reward? Hosted by Grand Lodge and Scottish Rite The winning team will receive a plaque for display in the home lodge. Teams with multiple lodges participating will Saturday 12-13, 2014 receive plaques accordingly. Each member of the winning team will receive a unique lapel pin. The winning team will Hastings Masonic Center present an actual EA degree for a candidate at the 2015 411 N. Hastings Avenue Annual Communication. Hotel Reservations can be made at How to Enter Howard-Johnson Registration information has been provided to all lodges and 2205 Osborne Drive-East, Hastings is available on the Grand Lodge web site. 402-463-6721 Registration information will be emailed to lodges 13

Jun14.indd 13 6/16/2014 3:52:51 PM Long-time Secretary Honored County-wide All Masonic Celebration The four Masonic Lodges located in Washington County hosted over 100 persons at a banquet at the Blair Marina on March 31 to celebrate the Masonic Fraternity and present awards to long-time local members. Master of Ceremonies Carl Lorenzen noted the role of Masonic Lodges and Freemasons in Washington County’s history. The Fort Calhoun Lodge was the 10th formed in Nebraska Territory, having been created in 1864 and chartered in 1866, one year prior to Nebraska’s 1867 Statehood. The Blair Lodge was chartered in 1868; the Arlington Lodge Chartered in 1874; and Herman Lodge Chartered in 1894. Most Worshipful Joe McBride, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Nebraska Masons, Ainsworth, presented the awards and spoke of the positive impact each of the recipients has had on the Masonic Fraternity and within each of their careers and communities.

Grand Master Joe McBride (left) presented a certificate of appreciation to past Secretary John Lippert (center) honoring his 31 years of service as secretary of Lebanon Lodge No. 323, Columbus. John is now treasurer of the lodge. The surprise ceremony was held during a meeting of the Pawnee Shrine Club on April 7 in Columbus. At right is Kim Severyn, Master of the lodge. Elementary School Students Pictured above from left are award recipients: Marvin Heise, Bronze Jordan Awarded with Kindles Medal 56-years; Dwaine Jordan, 60-years, Joe McBride, Grand Master of Nebraska Masons; Roscoe Andersen, 70-years; Phil Lorenzen, 50-years; Stanley M. Truhlsen, M.D., 70-years and Bronze Jordan Medal; and Martin Kuhr, 60-years. Other honorees unable to attend were Jim Long, Jarold Elvers and Robert Monke, each 50-years; and Larimore Jensen, 60-years. The late Richard Burmeister received a 60-year pin at the time of his death in January 2014. Fremont Lodge EA Degree

At an all-school assembly on April 3, Cotner Lodge No. 297 in Lincoln awarded Kindle e-readers to four Brownell Elementary School students. The four students’ names were drawn from students who participated in the school’s “Spring into Reading” program. Since 2002, Cotner Lodge has annually awarded Brownell students with bikes and now Kindles for participating in the school’s reading program. Brownell Principal Chris Schefdore has found Fremont Lodge No. 15 held an Entered Apprentice degree for Rick Goble, the Kindles motivate and engage students to read. The Kindles whose family has a long line of members in the lodge. Pictured left to right will hold over 1,000 books and can download books in 60 seconds are Sean Goble, Donald Goble, Rick Goble (candidate), and Richard with their built-in Wi-Fi. W\M\ Jerry Pigsley and S\W\ Troy Goble. Richard (Rick’s grandfather) is a past master of Fremont Lodge. Myers from Cotner Lodge presented the students with Kindles, Donald is Rick’s uncle, and Sean is Rick’s cousin. Rick’s father was out accessories, and gift cards. of town and unable to attend. 14

Jun14.indd 14 6/16/2014 3:52:54 PM by W∴B∴ Kevin Lindly, Secretary of Custer Lodge No. 148

Have Eatmon Gavel, Will Travel Custer Lodge Scholarship Dinner Evan and Austin Rose, sons of Bob and Susie Rose Members of Cement of Broken Bow were each awarded one of the Lyle E. Peltzer Lodge No. 211 in Wood Memorial/NE Grand Lodge scholarships by Custer Lodge No. 148 River traveled to Guide at its annual scholarship supper the evening of April 23, 2014. Lyle Rock Lodge No. 128 on was a 50-plus year member of Custer Lodge. Lyle’s sister, Kathleen May 1st to present the Eberle, was in attendance and helped make these presentations. Sonny Eatmon Traveling Austin and Evan are seniors at Broken Bow High School. Gavel. Pictured are Austin’s plans are to attend the University of Nebraska at Lincoln W.M. Jeff Herber and and study Actuarial Sciences. Evan’s plans are to attend Wayne W.B. Roland Engel of State College and study Agribusiness. Cement 211, and W.M. Chantel Fecht, a senior at Ansley High School, was awarded Les Montgomery of the Custer Masonic Lodge scholarship. Chantel is planning to Guide Rock 128. Also attend Northeast Community College to study Early Childhood attending from Cement Lodge, but not pictured, were W.B. Don Development. Chantel is the daughter of Roger and Lisa Fecht Miller, W.B. Dale Whitefoot, W.B. Dewey Heminger. of Ansley. In presenting the scholarships, George Bundy, Worshipful Master of Custer Lodge, recognized these young people for Alliance Lodge Sponsors Blood Drive exemplifying good citizenship and high moral character. “We are proud to recognize Chantel, Austin and Evan with these scholarships,” Wales said. “They are examples of the best On Tuesday, May 20th, that today’s youth have to offer for our future. We hope these Alliance Lodge No. 183 held scholarships help these 3 young people realize their career goals.” their annual blood drive. Six The P.G. Richardson Masonic Memorial Scholarship was people from the NE Blood awarded to Sarah Erickson of Hershey, and Savanna Horst of Center in Scottsbluff set up Loveland CO. Sara is the daughter of W\B\ Bill Erickson of stations at the Alliance lodge Sargent and Stephanie Richardson of Hershey and is a freshman building. The drive went from at UNL. Savanna is the granddaughter of W\B\ Kevin and 8am to 1pm and there were 42 Marilyn Lindly of Broken Bow. Savanna plans on attending Front donors. Pictured is W\B\ Range Community College in Fort Collins and then transfer to the Brad Dutton donating at one University of Wyoming to study Nursing. of the stations in the dining The P.G. Richardson Masonic Memorial Scholarship was room of the lodge. established in 1989. PG Richardson proudly graduated from Broken Bow High School in 1913. He loved to learn and took advantage of the opportunities that awaited him in college. P.G. studied engineering at UNL and Findlay Engineering School in Missouri. He returned to Broken Bow in 1919 when he began working for Columbus Lodge Roadside Cleanup Security State Bank. P.G. served as executive vice president and Members of Lebanon Lodge 323, Columbus, cleared Highway 22’s later chairman, until his retirement in 1980. He passed away in 1991 ditches of about 22 bags of trash during the Lodge’s semi-annual at the age of 95. P.G. and his wife, Margaret, who preceded him in highway pickup project near Monroe. Kneeling from left: Wayne death, raised two children and were blessed with four grandchildren. Jacobsen, Dave Geringer, Rick Porter and Nick Norris. Standing from left: John Hahn, Terry Hoeman, Otis Pierce, Mark Sindt, Bob Wilbur and Paul Canaday.

Pictured left to right: Joe McBride of Ainsworth, Grand Master of Masons of Nebraska, Austin Rose, Evan Rose -- Lyle E Peltzer Memorial Scholarship recipients, Chantel Fecht -- Custer Lodge No. 148 Scholarship recipient, Kevin Lindly, Grand Junior Steward and Secretary Custer Lodge, Michael Beall, Grand Tyler of North Platte.

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Jun14.indd 15 6/16/2014 3:52:57 PM THE NEBRASKA MASON Non-Profit Org. The Nebraska Mason is produced quarterly GRAND LODGE A∴F∴ & A∴M∴ OF NEBRASKA U.S. Postage and distributed to more than 16,000 301 N COTNER BLVD PAID members of the Masonic Family. Copy for LINCOLN, NE 68505-2315 Lincoln, NE articles is due at the Grand Lodge Office Permit No. 1066 on or before the following dates. Articles ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED received after these deadlines will be held for possible inclusion in future issues: March 1 - June 1 September 1 - December 1 Send articles to: The Nebraska Mason Office of the Grand Lodge 301 North Cotner Boulevard Lincoln, NE 68505-2315 MOVING? Please cut off the top of this 402.475.4640 page including your old address at the right and mail to the above address after filling in E-mail: [email protected] the NEW address shown below. New Address

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70-Year Pin Celebration Planned NOW HIRING... for PGM Paul Eveland The Grand Lodge of Nebraska is looking to fill the position of North Bend Lodge No. 119 is planning a celebration fitting Records Administrative Secretary. Qualified candidates will a milestone achieved by few and even more rarely by a Past have a very strong mastery of Microsoft Word, Excel and Grand Master to present a 70-year membership award to Access. Excellent proofreading skills and an extremely strong Most Worshipful Brother Paul Eveland. acumen for attention to detail are also required.

August 8, 2014 - 7:00 pm Primary duties include, but are not limited to, accurate North Bend Lodge No. 119, 1041 Locust Street maintenance of the membership database, preparation of and reconciliation of lodge annual returns, correspondence Cost: $20.00 per person with lodge secretaries and other grand jurisdictions, Reservations and prepayment are required Ladies are invited and encouraged to attend administration of the perpetual membership records, academic scholarships and annual year pin presentations. For reservations, mail your check payable to North Bend Lodge No. 119 to Dave Otte, Secretary, 2725 Road 30, Interested individuals should contact Michelle Riddle at Linwood, NE 68036. Contact Dave with questions at 402- Celebrity Staff, 402-464-0600, ext. 3110. 720-8665 or [email protected]. The reservation deadline: is July 25. 13th Annual Masonic Bee Hive Lodge No. 184 Charities Golf Tournament 125th Anniversary Charity Dinner “A day of golf with the Grand Master” Thursday, October 23, 2014 6:00 - 9:30 pm Monday, September 8, 2014 11:00 am Shotgun Start Omaha Scottish Rite Masonic Center North Bend Golf Course 202 S. 20th Street 4-person scramble • Silent Auction and Raffle to Benefit the Omaha Home $125 per person for Boys The tournament is open to the public. • Long-time members and special guests will be honored Lodges, Eastern Star Chapters and • Guest speaker from the Omaha Home for Boys Youth Groups are encouraged to participate. See the Grand Lodge web site or call the Reservations can be made by calling the Omaha Scottish Rite Grand Lodge for registration details. at 402-342-1300 16

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