FREEMASONS DecEmbER 2012 : The Gift That Gives Wallingford, CT 06492 P.O. Box 250 69 Masonic Avenue of Connecticut, AF & AM

page 5 page 18 page 23 Jonathan Glassman Master Mason Iconic Columns Receives Degree in Replaced at Beard Award Washington’s Room Washington Lodge TABLE OF CONTENTS Connecticut FREEMASONS Relief from ...... 3 News from the Valley of Hartford...... 15 Grand Master’s Message...... 4 Quality of Life Purchases New Organ...... 15 Volume 8 - Number 7 Jonathan Glassman Receives Beard Award...... 5 Commandery and DeMolay Explore Swords...... 16 Publisher Grand Chaplain’s Pulpit...... 6 Raised in Washington’s Room...... 18 The Grand Lodge Landmarks Committee Address...... 6 Masonic Vice-Presidents of the United States...... 19 of Connecticut AF & AM Masonicare Experience...... 7 Welcome/Congratulations...... 20 Grand Historian’s Corner...... 8 Moriah Lodge Fills the Halls...... 21 Editor-in-Chief Autumn Gathering Honors Veterans...... 8 Grand Oration Offers Masonic Tolerance...... 22 Simon R. LaPlace Hurricane Sandy No Match for Masonicare Employees...... 9 Front Columns Replaced in Monroe...... 23 Associate Editor From the Desk of Steve McPherson...... 10 Second Annual Chicken Challenge...... 24 Carl G. Ek Silent Auction of Festival of Trees...... 10 Life’s Journey, an address from Virginia...... 25 Sound Advice to Prevent Winter Falls...... 11 John Sasser, III, Awarded MSA...... 25 Correspondent The Gift of a Lifetime this Holiday Season!...... 11 Hiram Lodge Halloween Bowling Night...... 26 Michael L. Castroll Our Departed Brothers...... 12 Spirit of ‘76 Alive in Waterbury...... 26 Design Governor Malloy Presented with Challenge Coin...... 12 Opportunities...... 27 Charlene D. Rowe Background Checks...Really?...... 13 Craft at Labor...... 28 Gwen M. Rochette Turkeys for Food Bank...... 13 Craft at Refreshment...... 28 News from the Valley of New Haven...... 14 Boosters...... 30 Contributors Silent Auction for Holiday Wreaths...... 14 I Remember it Like it Was Just Last Week...... 31 Gary W. Arseneau David R. Blythe, Sr. William L. Breed Michael Calderone Grand Lodge of Connecticut, AF & AM Marje Chick 69 Masonic Avenue • P.O. Box 250 • Wallingford, Connecticut 06492 Mike Colgan James Wade D’Acosta Office hours: 8:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., 1:15 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Monday through Friday Richard F. Denno First Saturday of the month: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon Larry Elsner 203-679-5903 • 800-529-4161 (in-state only) • Fax: 203-679-5996 Creighton English e-mail: [email protected] • www.ctfreemasons.net Charles B. Fowler, Jr. Arnold Freeman Ken Greenhill Pat Kalinauskas Christopher Lathrop Gary A. Littlefield GRAND MASTER’S Chris Martinelli Stephen B. McPherson Ray Nealon TRESTLE BOARD Penny O’Neill Edward Page Adam Raider Gary W. Arseneau - December 2012 James L. Vander Eyk Connecticut Freemasons is the official publication of the Grand Lodge of Connecticut AF & AM. All original Date Event ATTIRE Public Dinner articles are subject to editing. All Sunday, December 2, 5:00 p.m. Holiday Gathering, Masonicare at Ashlar Village, Wallingford S Y Y checks for payments and donations should be made out to Grand Lodge Monday, December 3, 7:30 p.m. Friendship Lodge No. 33, Southington S Y N Publications and mailed to the Wednesday, December 5, 5:00 p.m. Tasting session, Radisson Hotel, Cromwell C Y N Grand Lodge office at PO Box 250, Wallingford, CT 06492. Thursday, December 6, 4:00 p.m. Office hours, Grand Lodge office, Wallingford C N Y Saturday, December 8, 12:00 noon Friendship Tuscan Lodge No. 145, Manchester, installation of officers F Y Y Connecticut Freemasons (USPS 025-514) Volume 8 Number 7 December 2012 is Saturday, December 8, 7:30 p.m. Union Lodge No. 5, Stamford, installation of officers F Y Y published monthly except August by The Sunday, December 9, 5:00 p.m. Etiquette with the Grand Master S Y Y Grand Lodge AF & AM of Connecticut, 69 Masonic Avenue, P.O. Box 250, Monday, December 10, 7:30 p.m. Anchor Lodge No. 112, East Hampton F N N Wallingford, CT 06492-0250. Periodicals Tuesday, December 11, 4:00 p.m. Connecticut Freemasons Foundation, Grand Lodge office, Wallingford C N N Postage paid at Wallingford, CT and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Thursday, December 13, 4:30 p.m. Masonicare Board of Trustees, Wallingford S N N Send address changes to Connecticut Freemasons, Thursday, December 13, 5:00 p.m. Grand Lodge officers meeting, Wallingford C Y N c/o The Grand Lodge AF & AM of Friday, December 14, 6:00 p.m. Masonicare Holiday Gathering, Quinipiack Club, New Haven S Y N Connecticut, P.O. Box 250, Wallingford, CT 06492-0250. Saturday, December 15, 9:00 a.m. Putnam Lodge No. 46, South Woodstock F Y N Fumigation and installation of officers Letters and advertisements may be sent to the Editor-in-Chief at Sunday, December 16, 2:00 p.m. Ice cream social, Masonicare Health Center auditorium, Wallingford C N Y [email protected]. or Monday, December 17, 6:00 p.m. Valley Lodge No. 36, Simsbury, installation of officers F Y Y 860-526-4021. All submissions are required by the 15th of the month Thursday, December 20, 6:30 p.m. Hartford County Past Masters Association S Y N prior to the next issue. Please note: The Valley Lodge No. 36, Simsbury Grand Lodge AF & AM of Connecticut, does not endorse any of the products Saturday, December 22, 3:00 p.m. Friendship Lodge No. 33, Southington, Installation of officers S Y Y or services contained herein nor imply any warranty of the goods, services, Tuesday, December 25 Merry Christmas! or claims advertised. While every Wednesday, December 26-27 Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, Boston effort is made to ensure the accuracy of all advertisements, Connecticut Saturday, December 29, 2:00 p.m. Village Lodge No. 29, Collinsville, installation of officers F Y Y Freemasons will only be liable to reprint, Tuesday, December 31 Happy New Year! at no charge, any correction due to typographical error.

Page 2 Connecticut Freemasons December 2012 Connecticut and New York Lodges Unite to provide Relief from Hurricane Sandy by Richard F. Denno which are closed, and it On October 29, Hurricane Sandy, also could be months before known as ‘Frankenstorm’ or ‘The Super power is restored and the Storm,’ made landfall in the United States in schools re-opened,” he Atlantic City, . Packing winds well noted. in excess of 75 miles per hour, the monster Those interested in storm devastated communities in New York, contributing to the Toys and New Jersey. Especially hard hit were of Hope efforts may do so New York’s Long Island and Staten Island online at www.toysofhope. areas. Power to many communities in the org. The website also area towns was immediately cut off. Homes shows the devastation and businesses were destroyed. “Hurricane and what Long Island Sandy could not have struck at a worse time,” residents are up against, Said Melissa Doktofsky, president of Toys as the impending cold of of Hope, a non-profit 501(c)(3) volunteer winter draws near. organization. In the western part The cold weather compounded the of the state, WB Dave problems. “Some communities devastated Hughes of Sheperd-Salem by Hurricane Sandy, such as Fire Island, Lodge No. 78, Naugatuck, Brother Mike Allstadt, with sign, and his fellow Anchor Lodge brothers may never return to their pre-Hurricane mobilized several lodges filled a rental van with relief supplies for victims of Hurricane Sandie. Sandy status,” said Brian Hansen, director of and the brothers of His contacts with a in his hometown of Amityville, operations for Toys of Hope. his lodge. He reached New York, and the immediate response of the town of East Hampton While many Masonic Lodges throughout across district lines for made for timely help. Connecticut wanted to help, for an Anchor contributions. WB Hughes Lodge No. 112 brother, it was personal. contacted WB Frank Sheperd-Salem Worshipful Master Hughes Brother Mike Allstadt, was born and raised Grand of Union Lodge No. 40, Danbury, said simply, “Brothers helping brothers.” in the small Long Island community of who set up a donation collection point of The Masonic Service Association also Amityville, New York. Mike approached his own. Items collected there were moved issued a disaster relief appeal for New York Anchor Lodge about assisting in the rescue to Naugatuck. WM Grande reported, “With and New Jersey. Tax deductible donations efforts. He also contacted WM Eleuterio the help of the brothers from Ark Lodge No. are still being accepted. When remitting Rolon, Master of Amityville Lodge No. 997. 39 and surrounding lodge donations, we funds, please mark your check that you Within 48 hours, the town of East Hampton, raised over $1,250 in food and money to be wish the donation to go to New York or New and Anchor Lodge kicked into high gear to donated to the brothers in Staten Island.” Jersey. Unmarked funds will be divided aid the town of Amityville. At the Wal-Mart in Naugatuck, permission equally between the two Grand Lodges. Barbara Moore, wife of WB Ray Moore, was given to set up rental trucks to receive Make checks payable to MSA Disaster Relief sent emails to almost 200 people. Items donations. On Saturday, November 10, Fund and send to: were dropped off at the lodge on Sunday, brothers collected shoppers’ donations of dry Masonic Service Association of North November 4. The Rotary club made signs goods, cleaners, and canned foods. Junior America the next day, and posted them around the Warden Chip Schofield and Senior Warden 8120 Fenton Street, Suite 203 business district. It truly was a community Brian Newman of Sheperd-Salem Lodge, Silver Spring, MD 20910-4785 effort, all from one brother’s initial concern. adroitly handled the press interviews and The Grand Lodge of Connecticut’s On Monday, November 5, a rental van, encouraged passers-by to make a donation. contribution of $25,000 included funds not loaded to capacity was driven to Amityville. Additional collection points were set used from the Hurricane Eileen storm of last Brother Mike Allstadt and WB Peter Proto at Rockwell Studio, the Naugatuck Fire year that had been sent from the Masonic were met by WM Rolon, Bro. Josh Soler, and Department, and Jimmy's Place in Seymour. Service Association. two other friends. The truck was off-loaded By the time the collection was over, two at the lodge and Toys of Hope contacted. large box trucks filled with bottled water, non- The next day, volunteers from Toys of Hope perishable foods, baby products, candles, Our Cover (the organization is 100% volunteer staffed) batteries paper products, and other goods went door to door, distributing the much were ready for the trip to a Masonic lodge in Brothers from Sheperd-Salem Lodge No. 78, needed supplies, such as personal hygiene Staten Island. Naugatuck, and Union Lodge No. 40, Danbury, products, clothing and even pet supplies. The Sunday November 11 trip included not set up hurricane relief collection stations for “We are extremely grateful for the only the off-loading of the supplies, but the transfer to a Staten Island, New York Masonic assistance from Anchor Lodge; as well as brothers were given a tour of the devastation. proud of the Masonic efforts of both lodges,” As WM Grande said, “I am truly grateful lodge for distribution to victims of Hurricane said WB Rolon. “The devastation is beyond and hope that we can continue to spread the Sandy. The damage there was obvious. belief. There are still 15 schools in the area cement that makes us one with each other.“

December 2012 Connecticut Freemasons Page 3 Grand Master’s Message ‘ Twas the Night before Grand Lodge

He was dressed in tuxedo, from his head to his foot, asonic oem by MW Gary A. Arseneau A M P And his apron was white, with no spot of soot. (with apologies to Clement Clarke Moore) A bundle of plaques he had flung on his back, And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack. Twas the night before Grand Lodge, When all through the Lodge His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry! Not a creature was stirring, not even Mike Dodge. His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry! The banners were hung in the East with care, His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, In hopes that the Grand Master soon would be there. And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.

The Brothers were nestled all snug in their beds, His square-engraved gavel he held tight in his hand, While visions of Table Lodge danced in their heads. And it was well made and fraternally grand. And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my top hat, He had a broad face and a little round belly, Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap. That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!

When out in the lot there arose such a clatter, He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old Mason, I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter. And I laughed when I saw him, a true widow’s son! Away to the window I flew like a flash, A wink of his eye and a twist of his head, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash. Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, Gave the lustre of working tools to objects below. And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk. When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, Then laying his finger aside of his nose, But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer. And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!

With a little old driver, so worldly and faster, He sprang to the east, his gavel gave a final rap, I knew in a moment it must be the Grand Master. And away they all went while every craftsman did clap. More rapid than edicts his of’cers they came, But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight, And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name! "Hele friend and well met, and to all my brothers, a good-night!" "Now Simon! now, Thomas! now, Donald and Michael! On, Marshal! On, Ted! on, Bradley and Steven! The holiday season is upon us again and the year is To the top of the porch! to the temple wall! going fast. It is hard to believe that our Grand Lodge Now dash away! Rehash away! Cache away all!" year is 75% over. This month signals the beginning of the lodge year with the elections and installation of officers. As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, Everyone is looking to a better and brighter future. When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky. As I reflect on this time of year, I see it a very Masonic time So up to the temple-top the coursers they flew, when people celebrate the holidays with cheer and generally With the sleigh full of medals, and recognitions too. show respect to all mankind. Rather like Masonry, people seem to be more open minded with each other and show kindness And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof and charity where ever it is needed. The prancing and pawing of each little hoof. I look forward to the rest of our Masonic year and as always, As I drew in my head, and was turning around, may the Grand Architect continue to bless us and allow us to do Down the chimney the Grand Master came with a bound. his work through Masonry.

Page 4 Connecticut Freemasons December 2012 Bro. Jonathan Glassman Receives Beard Award at Cosmopolitain Lodge’s Scout Night It was Scout Night at Cosmopolitan the man who Lodge No. 125, New Haven, on Wednesday, brought Scouting November 21. It was a chance for the lodge to America, but to celebrate two important events – the proclaims the chartering of Cub Scout Pack No. 125, integrity of the sponsored by Cosmopolitan Lodge, and Freemason who the awarding of the Daniel Carter Beard is honored by Masonic Scouter Award to Bro. Jonathan receiving the J. Glassman, for his outstanding service to award. youth and Freemasonry. In 1910, the Bro. David Elkodsi submitted the Boy Scout program nomination for the Beard award with the came to America following recommendation: when Bro. Beard “It is with great pleasure that I nominate merged his male Brother Jonathan J. Glassman for the Daniel youth program Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award. called the "Society Jonathan is a professional Scouter employed of the Sons of by the Connecticut Yankee Council. He Daniel Boone" is also an Eagle Scout, and a very active into the "Boy scouting volunteer. He currently serves as Scouts of America" Cubmaster for Pack 925, where his sons are and became its WM Jason Morse; honoree Jonathan Glassman, also the lodge’s Marshal; currently registered. first National RW DD-4C Gary Matican, the honoree’s Scoutmaster, lodge chaplain, and “Jonathan has, over the years, organized Commissioner. principal presenter; and David M. Elkodsi, junior steward, a Scout with Bro. many Scouting units, and worked to improve RW Gary Glassman who submitted the nomination for the Daniel Carter Beard Award. the ties between Scouting and Freemasonry. Matican, District He has received the William D. Boyce Award Deputy, oversaw for organizing new units, and this past spring, the ceremony. It was special for him as worked to bring a Cub Scout pack to the Bro. Jonathan was a scout in his troop Jewish Community Center in Woodbridge. when Bro. Gary was Scoutmaster. A “Other notable commendations for Bro. number other Scouting dignitaries Jonathan include his receiving the Shofar were present for the ceremony, Award, in recognition for his support of Jewish including committee members of the Scouting, as well as the Cliff Dockterman newly chartered Cub Scout Pack No. Award from Rotary International, and 125, commissioners and executives of multiple Venturing leadership awards. the Lighthouse District, Connecticut “Currently, Jonathan is serving as Junior Yankee Council, and many brother Steward for cosmopolitan Lodge No. 135, Scouts. and is responsible for two community service Bro. Elkodsi commented, “I programs, a canned good drive for donation know of no one who has done to a local food bank, and a monthly effort at more to strengthen this relationship the local soup kitchen. Jonathan organizes the between Masonry and Scouting. In monthly volunteers, getting approximately my opinion, Jonathan exemplifies ten brothers a month to donate a few hours the benefits and strenghts between of their time helping to feed the homeless in the two organizations, active in New Haven.” community service, and helping our The Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter youth through Scouting.” Award is an honor due to the countless Freemasons who practice the ideals of Freemasonry and act as role models to the young men who are part of one of our nation's most outstanding youth organizations. The Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Award not only supports the Masonic relationship through

December 2012 Connecticut Freemasons Page 5 Grand Chaplain’s Pulpit RW Bro. James L. Vander Eyk, Grand Chaplain “Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace, good will toward men.” – LUKE 2:14

Thus the angels said unto the shepherds where there was total peace everywhere in of years, but some two thousand years ago and which we the world but someone more knowledgeable f o r t u n a t e l y will hear much of in the proceeding weeks. than me must have that information. the majority of Most likely it will be repeated as “Peace on However, there are two instances I can recall mankind continues earth, good will toward men.” that occurred early in Genesis; the first being to promote good No matter how it is worded, the thought between Adam and Eve before eating the will and peace and to and the meaning of that phrase will be uttered forbidden fruit, and the second, with Noah dissuade ill will and persecution. in each house of worship on many occasions during the Great Flood. Perhaps not quite So as we go forth into this month of throughout the world and throughout the the world peace we most fervently desire but celebrations let each of us do our utmost year. So this year as we celebrate Christmas, peace none the less. to promote peace and good will toward Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or any religious As Masons we are constantly encouraged others. May our hearts and minds be full of celebration, let us concentrate on the true to demonstrate “good will toward men” and compassion and caring for our fellow man, meaning of these observances. practice the golden rule. But how often do more so than we have done before, and let Reflecting upon the passage from Luke some of us stray from these principles and it continue throughout the days, months, 2:14 I thought – when was the last time create “ill will” with others because of their and years to come. This wonderful gift of there was peace on earth? When was the thoughts, beliefs, ideas, or appearance? How caring and giving of ourselves which we feel last time there was not a war, skirmish, or often do some of us disregard the principles this month especially should not be allowed violent uprising somewhere in the world? I and disciplines we have been taught in order to end within ourselves on January 1, just know it hasn’t occurred in my lifetime and to promote self-importance or superiority because the “season” is over. May you all have unfortunately will not likely occur before my over others? Unfortunately, these attitudes wonderful holiday celebrations and “Let there demise. Perhaps there was a period in history have been prevalent in societies for thousands be peace on earth and let it begin with me.” Landmarks Committee Address to the Brethren Semi-Annual Communication, October 27, 2012

by Ken Greenhill everything we know to be right we would not be Freemasons. ourselves anything more than As Freemasons we all know about our Fraternity. It has Finally, we have attempted to facilitators in this process, we that the foundation of our been within this design that the make recommendations that encourage and invite your input. fraternity is solidly planted in the Landmarks Committee has set will reinforce our foundation, It is our intention, over the next bedrock of our basic precepts. The out to weigh our jurisdictional strengthen our principles, and several months, to visit with as process of shaping each and every writings against our fraternal support our endeavors along this many of the craft as possible to Mason travels along a path that intentions and examine them tiny moment of our immortal discuss and hear your opinions. is essentially unchanged since against a contemporary world; existence. We will be happy to meet in your our beginnings, but at the same while ensuring that our fraternity You may or may not have lodges, at Blue Lodge Councils, time, that path is so uniquely remains open to all men of read the first installment at special communications, or individual we can sometimes good character, without regard of communications on the wherever we are invited, so that cloud our judgment to think to denomination, who would subject of the Committee’s we might all be prepared for our there is only one truth to follow. faithfully labor with us to preserve recommendations in the final recommendations at the The revelation that the beauty and protect our institution. Connecticut Freemasons Annual Communication in April of Freemasonry exposes amazing The Landmarks Committee publication, September 2012, of 2013, which must lay over truths to our world excites our has, thus far, attempted to reaffirm page 22. We would encourage for a vote at the Semi-Annual hearts and minds as we discover the constructs of our forefathers you to do so as it offers the Communication in October the wonders of our teachings. and forebears, where necessary, first recommendations of the 2013. However, without a periodic to return our deeds to those Landmarks Committee. We It has been an honor, reminder and reexamination ancient precepts and demand hope this article inspires you privilege, and pleasure to be of these core principles, we that we abide by and obey all of to consider what we offer as thought worthy to participate in could easily see an erosion of those principles without which ideas. As we in no way consider this process.

Page 6 Connecticut Freemasons December 2012 WB Noah Edelstein: Setting a Good Example by Adam Raider come back,” Noah explained, “to make Freemasonry isn’t just the largest it easier for our family if and when we philanthropic organization in existence – it’s needed additional care.” an approach to life that encourages good men Seeking the assurance of access to to be of service to themselves, their families, quality healthcare and support services, and their communities. Noah and Ruby put in an application to To that end, WB Noah Edelstein has live at the Wells Apartments. Sadly, Ruby consistently supported The Masonic Charity passed away before the Edelsteins could Foundation of Connecticut for over 30 years. complete the move. That puts him in pretty exclusive company. Noah has lived at the Wells Although Noah downplays the impact Apartments for almost four years now. his charitable giving has had, the truth is that From his balcony he has a prime view of The Foundation depends on donations of all the annual Grandmasters Day festivities. amounts to subsidize programs and special He belongs to the “Anyone Can Sing” purchases that directly improve the quality of chorus and volunteers at the Health life of Masonicare’s residents and patients. Center. Reflecting on the quality of life A resident of the Wells Apartments, an he enjoys here, Noah is confident that he independent living community adjacent to made the right choice. In fact, for him, Masonicare Health Center, Noah first visited Masonicare was the only choice. the Wallingford campus over 40 years ago “I shouldn’t say that I’m surprised, when the Health Center was known as the but I am so happy that this place has been WB Noah Edelstein and his late wife, Ruby, anticipated Masonic Home and Hospital. everything I thought it would be and moving into the Wells Apartments to make life easier At the time, he was serving as Master of St. should be,” he said. “I am so impressed for themselves and their family. John’s Lodge No. 4, Hartford (now Wyllys-St. with the people who work here. They are John’s No. 4, West Hartford). His late wife, a dedicated bunch of people and I just to help themselves.” Ruby, was Past Matron of the Order of the can’t say enough about them. And not just the In Noah’s travels, he also encountered Eastern Star, Newington Chapter No. 115. upper level staff – even the people who clean many older adults who wanted to conserve “Masonicare wasn’t what it is today,” or come to your apartment to make repairs. their assets so that they would have more to Bro. Noah recalled, noting Masonicare’s They’re all so pleasant and so many of them pass on to their children. It’s a sentiment he growth from a single facility into a statewide call me by name. They just can’t do enough for understands, but … healthcare continuum. “But the vision has you. When you need something, boy, they’re “There are a lot of ways to give to your been there – passed down from one person to right there.” kids,” he said. “If you can set a good example another – to bring this organization forward. Among donors to The Masonic Charity for them by sharing what you have with other Seeing Masonicare on short visits is nothing Foundation, Noah has a unique perspective folks, then I think that’s a very good thing.” like seeing it as a resident. Living here has on the importance of charitable giving. While Your gifts to The Masonic Charity really broadened my vista.” living in Florida, he became involved with the Foundation of Connecticut will help create Noah grew up in Hartford and he and his Florida Conference of the United Church of “Masonicare Experiences” for others. To find family lived in Vernon, West Hartford and Christ, sitting on that organization’s board out how you can support The Foundation or Newington. He attended the University of of directors. One of his favorite duties was to to make a gift, please call 203-679-5555 or Connecticut before enlisting in the Marine travel around the state visiting congregations 800-562-3952. You can also donate online Corps, serving between the Korean and Vietnam and encouraging parishioners to give what at www.masonicare.org/mcf. Wars. He is extremely proud of his military they could to help those less fortunate. service, as evidenced by the large collection “I really enjoyed going out and of USMC mementos and memorabilia that talking to people about why their adorn the walls of his apartment. financial support was so important,” After serving in the Marine Corps, Noah he said. “But I also appreciated the entered the private sector as a computer difficulty of getting some people to part programmer at Aetna. Retiring early, he and with their money. We sometimes think Ruby moved to Florida. The Edelsteins very of money as our whole being, and I much enjoyed their time there, but eventually know that for some people, it’s terribly decided to move back to Connecticut to be difficult to give even a little. Ultimately, closer to their children and grandchildren. though, those are often the people you “We thought it would be a good idea to want to help: those who cannot afford December 2012 Connecticut Freemasons Page 7 Grand Historian’s Corner RW Bro. Gary A. Littlefield, Grand Historian

In the day when political Connecticut National Guard. He other in Monroe, North at sight. Vaux went on campaigns were fought with few was raised in Brainard Lodge No. Carolina. The ritual to become mayor of dollars, no negative campaign 102 in 1897 and was Worshipful portrays the story Philadelphia and advertisements, and certainly no Master in 1913. He died at the of a Master Mason obtained enough robo-calling, James E. English Veterans Administration hospital being called to proficiency and (1812-1890) was a resident of in Newington. York in 926 AD reputation in the New Haven when he was elected F F F to receive the craft to be elected to Congress as a Democrat during E. Hart Fenn (1856-1939) Ancient Charges Grand Master the Lincoln administration was a Wallingford Republican from the King. himself in 1868. (1861-1865). English had only when he was elected to the 67th The legends are Another prominent a common school education Congress in 1921. He served for used to tell a story P e n n s y l v a n i a but made a success story of his ten years. He studied journalism and, like all Masonic brother was John short New Haven education. He at Yale after being raised in degrees, teach a moral Wanamaker who became a hatter, businessman, Hartford. He had other public lesson. Membership owned and operated the manufacturer, philanthropist, service as head of the department is invitational and there Wanamaker’s of Philadelphia civic leader, and farmer. He was of Fish and Game and served in are mandatory requirements for department store. He was made sent to the General Assembly the General Assembly. He was both craft Masonry and Royal a Mason at sight in 1898. Both for three terms, was Governor raised in Lafayette Lodge No. 100 Arch Chapter masonry. The local brothers then petitioned lodges in 1867 and 1868 and again in in 1914. body is called a “Court.” so they could become a member 1870. He was the first candidate F F F F F F of a lodge. to be initiated when Trumbull In an effort to discuss The making a Mason at sight is In Ohio, William Howard Lodge No. 22, New Haven, the various offshoots of craft a rare occurrence in Connecticut. Taft was made a Mason at sight received its charter in 1869. Masonry, we continue this Only the Grand Master has that on February 18, 1909, a few F F F month with a discussion of power to make a Mason without weeks prior to his inauguration Richard Freeman (1869- the Order of Athelstan. The benefit of petition, investigating as President of the United States. 1944) was a Republican from Masonic Order of Athelstan was committee, or ballot, or the On May 9, 1911, he posed for New London who served from constituted in England about wait between degrees and photographs at the White House 1915 to 1933 and had the honor 2005 and in the United States proving proficiency. Generally while President wearing George of a Harvard education and Yale on February 8, 2011. The order is the Grand Master understands Washington's Masonic apron and law degree. Freeman graduated based on the life and legend of and recognizes the character sash. He was a lifetime member of from Harvard in 1891 and three King Athelstan and shows how necessary to become a Mason the George Washington Masonic years later earned his law degree English history was significant for and has used his general good Memorial and one of the first from Yale. He served as city the development of speculative judgment to make the decision. to subscribe to the Memorial's attorney. He was on active duty Freemasonry. There are two In Pennsylvania, Grand "charter roll of honor." during the Spanish-American war courts in the United States, one in Master Joseph Chandler in 1842 F F F and continued his service in the Allentown, Pennsylvania and the made Richard Vaux a Mason Happy Holidays to all. Veterans Honored at the Annual Autumn Gathering at MHC From the fragrant aroma of great food made in the cause of peace. In addition to the sounds of fellowship and good to the Grand Master, many other Grand cheer heard from the many members of Lodge officers, Masonic dignitaries and the Masonic family who attended, the Masonicare Board members attended the annual Autumn Gathering at Masonicare reception for the Masonic family. Health Center held on Sunday, November The event included festive food 11, was, as always, a most enjoyable prepared by Morrison’s Senior Dining occasion. And to make it even more under the direction of David Coyle, special this year, the popular event was director of dining services, Kelly held on Veteran’s Day, with many veterans Sturtevant, executive chief, and Matt in attendance who were recognized and Mazzone, sous chief. honored for their service to their country. The Autumn Gathering also featured Grand Master Gary W. Arseneau a special presentation by Pat Morgan, presented more than forty veterans with director of development for The Masonic special pins containing words of gratitude Charity Foundation of Connecticut, who and donated by the Grand Lodge. In discussed the Foundation’s Tree of Life One of the more than forty veterans who were presented his remarks, MW Arseneau offered his programs and invited the Masonic family with special pins by MW Gary Arseneau was Brother personal gratitude to all veterans for their to participate in the event to honor and Don Minton of Temple Lodge No. 16, Cheshire, and a selfless service and the sacrifices they commemorate loved ones. resident of the Masonicare Health Center. Page 8 Connecticut Freemasons December 2012 Hurricane Sandy No Match for Norwalk Employees of Masonicare Home Health & Hospice

From visiting nurses and home health stayed there until she could return to her phones and emergency contact planning, aides to physical therapists and hospice home. there was a constant stream of updates professionals – Masonicare Home Health A 90-year old hospice patient and his pouring in from staff. They provided & Hospice employees give their all every spouse live in a high-risk flood zone in information on safe places to go, easiest day, seven days a week, even during an the Rowayton section of Norwalk. They’re routes to use to get to patients’ homes, unprecedented event such as the recent fiercely independent and were adamant places where showers were available, and “super storm.” about remaining in their home. Before much more. Social worker Brian Jin sought When the Norwalk office of Masonicare the storm reached its peak, Julie Lopiano, out “Good Samaritan” beds for patients Home Health & Hospice learned that the hospice RN, made a special trip to bring who couldn’t afford room and board at area dangerous storm was on its way, the staff the gentleman a medication he needed skilled nursing facilities. There was even immediately sprang into action and began because his pharmacy couldn’t get there. a staff member who had been undergoing making emergency preparations during the Her colleague, Dot, made sure the couple’s chemotherapy and not feeling well who entire week prior to the storm to ensure home was stocked with flashlights, batteries, was the first person into the office after the that patients were safe and would get the canned soup, and other necessities to help storm. She not only managed to get in, but help they needed during she opened the phones and triaged calls and after the storm. Because until co-workers were able to trickle in. many of the towns covered Every hospice patient was contacted by the Norwalk office are by an on-call nurse on Sunday before the located along the shoreline, Extraordinary People Take storm arrived, and the entire staff is pleased they knew the area would to report that all of their patients were be especially hard hit. Extraordinary Action appropriately triaged and well cared for. Jennifer Carlan, RN, Jennifer says, “Everyone pulled together and BSN, CHPN, hospice worked so hard to help lessen the impact on supervisor of clinical services for the Norwalk them during the expected power outage. our patients – and us as well. I’ve never seen office, said Masonicare’s nurses and social Dot and Julie took turns visiting them daily such a dedicated group of individuals. I am services employees worked tirelessly for to insure they were safe. After a few days in so fortunate and proud to be working with days, trying to place this very fragile group their cold house, Julie persuaded them to all of them.” of people or make them safe at home. “I leave and arranged for them to be taken to Susan Adams, RN, BSN, PhD, regional just can’t say enough good things about the a local hotel for their safety. The hotel room vice president and administrator for outstanding team of professionals I work was available for only one night, so Julie Masonicare Home Health & Hospice, points with. I’m so proud of all of them for what and Masonicare Home Health & Hospice out that these examples of extraordinary they did. There are so many extraordinary social worker Brian Jin arranged for them employees are really just the tip of the stories to share about their heroic efforts to stay at a niece’s home in West Hartford. iceberg. “With the number of offices and during this horrific event – it’s hard to know They were seamlessly transitioned to receive employees we have covering the state, there where to begin.” care through the East Hartford office of are many, many more stories of ‘heroes’ Unfortunately, many of Masonicare’s Masonicare Partners until their power was who always go that extra mile to provide home hospice patients were too ill – or too restored and they could move back home. outstanding care and compassion for those proud – to move to a shelter during the storm A 95-year old hospice patient from who need it most.” but were not sick enough to be admitted Stamford who requires 5 to a hospital. Also, many lacked the funds liters of oxygen refused to to pay room and board at one of the area leave her home, but Dot skilled nursing facilities. To make matters finally convinced her it was HEJAZ worse, many of those facilities had few absolutely necessary and even accommodations available or were without found a secure haven for her full power and running on generators. to stay where she could safely GROTTO, One example involves a 91-year old weather the storm. M.O.V.P.E.R. Darien woman who was receiving 24-hour Our own Hospice nurse care in her home. She was told to evacuate Elizabeth Tracey’s patient was due to expected flooding. Since she has no in a “disaster zone” and the family to assist her, Masonicare Home Health street was shut down by the Good Fellowship Hospice nurse Dot Baliban spent the Sunday National Guard. Because her at Ashlar Village before the storm making arrangements for patient and family refused her care. She contacted an ambulance service to evacuate, Libby walked six Dinner Meetings • Second Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. in the area and arranged for her patient to be blocks to check in with the driven to Wallingford, where she was made patient to be sure she was OK. For information contact Secretary Gary Matican, comfortable in a private room in the Acute Jennifer says that during Membership Chairman at 203 410-9733 Care Unit at Masonicare Health Center. She the entire time, thanks to cell December 2012 Connecticut Freemasons Page 9 From the desk of: Bro. Stephen B. McPherson President & CEO of Masonicare

Thanksgiving this year fell on November 22 — the earliest I’m sure you can imagine some of it can be. Nevertheless, I don’t think most of us had to wait for the challenges in making sure that Thanksgiving to remember all we have to be thankful for. The home hospice patients had shelter, heartbreak and devastation that “Superstorm” Sandy brought supplies and the support they needed to the East coast was enough to remind everyone of what really should their homes lose power, which most did. You can read matters. Here in Connecticut, we were affected with coastline all about their tremendous – heroic, I would say – efforts on damage and more than 100,000 homes without power. pag 9 of this issue of Connecticut Freemasons. At Masonicare, our employees again showed what dedication As we head into the rest of the holiday season, I hope that they have to the patients and residents who depend on them. you and those you hold dear will find evidence of hope and In Wallingford – where our Health Center alone has over 400 faith around you. From all us at Masonicare, our very best beds – our employees came through with flying colors, coming wishes for health and happiness. We thank you for helping us into work early and prepared to stay as long as necessary. In deliver our Masonic mission to “help, aid and assist.” Newtown, for the third time in 15 months, we welcomed townspeople without power to come in and take hot showers. Sincerely and fraternally, A local resident was especially grateful: her wheelchair-bound teenage son was able to use our special needs shower room – which he thought it was “big fun... a complete room that was a shower.” I’d like to shine a special spotlight on the extraordinary work of the Hospice team based in our Norwalk home health office. Annual Silent Auction at Masonicare Health Center’s Festival of Trees

The Twenty-Fourth Annual Festival of Trees at Masonicare Health Center will begin on November 27. This popular event features a silent auction of 60 unique, decorated tabletop trees. The lighted trees are designed and trimmed by teams of Masonicare employees, volunteers, and residents, and The Eastern Star Charity Foundation will also be participating. The trees will be on continuous display in the lobby of Masonicare Health Center until Tuesday, December 18. Everyone is welcome to visit the Center any day between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. to view the trees and place a bid. Bids will be closed at 2:30 p.m. on December 18, when the highest bidders will be announced and winners can claim their holiday tree. Winners will be notified if they can’t be present on that date. All proceeds from the auction will be used to support a host of activities for the residents of Masonicare Health Center. As always, this year’s Festival of Trees features a wide range of unique and imaginative decorations and a variety of themes that will appeal to every taste and delight adults and children of all ages. One of the trees may be just what you’re looking for to complete your holiday decorating or the perfect gift for that very special person. Carl Asman with one of the SEVEN trees he bid on and Be sure to stop by and place your bid! ultimately won during Masonicare’s 2011 Festival of Trees. For additional information, contact the Volunteer Services Office, The seven trees alone brought in $2,650, which has been Masonicare Health Center at 203-679-5980 or the Masonicare HelpLine at used for special events and programs enjoyed by Masonicare 888-679-9997. Health Center’s residents throughout 2012.

Page 10 Connecticut Freemasons December 2012 Sound Advice to Help Prevent Winter Falls

A fall can happen to anyone possibility that you might run If you do fall and injure at any time and in any place, into an unseen patch of ice. Also, yourself, be sure to ice anything but the cold weather, with its ice your arms can help you stay that swells. Even if you suspect and snow, makes your chances balanced, so keep your hands something more serious, ice is a of falling even greater than out of your pockets and avoid good ‘first-line’ of defense. Avoid at any other time of the year. carrying heavy loads that may heat or heating pads with any Besides just being embarrassed if cause you to lose your balance. swelling conditions. someone witnesses your tumble, Also, avoid the temptation to Use walk-in orthopedic or a fall has the potential of causing run to catch a bus or beat traffic walk-in clinics, which are quicker varying degrees of injury, from a when crossing a street. and usually have a smaller co- simple bruise to a more serious Walk "small." This means pay than an emergency room. head injury, broken bones, or don’t walk in an erect, marching Any pain that lasts more than even worse. Christopher Lathrop, posture, but look ahead to see one week should be checked out OTD, MS, OTR/L, director of where you’re stepping. When by a physician. And if physical rehabilitation at Masonicare walking in icy areas, take short, therapy is needed, don’t delay. Health Center in Wallingford, shuffling steps, curl your toes It’s always easier to treat an offers some important tips below under, and walk as flatfooted as injury when it’s fresh. that can help you reduce your possible. Christopher Lathrop, OTD, MS, Should you need physical risk of taking a spill this winter. At your home, be sure to OTR/L, director of rehabilitation therapy, remember that One of the most important remove snow as soon as possible at Masonicare Health Center Masonicare provides outstanding things you can do to lessen before it can become packed in Wallingford therapy in the newly-renovated your chances of falling on ice or or turn to ice. Keep your porch outpatient physical therapy snow is to wear the right boots stoop, steps, walks, and driveways suggestions, a fall can still happen, department, and also provides or overshoes that will give you free of ice by frequently applying and it can take less than two occupational and speech traction when walking. Always ice melter granules, which is the seconds from the moment you slip therapy. The department be sure the footwear you’re best way to prevent the formation until you hit the ground. That's is conveniently located in wearing is appropriate for icy of dangerous ice patches. Using precious little time to react. In that Masonicare’s Medical Office conditions – never walk in shoes a potassium-based melter, such instant, the risk is an injury to your Building on the main campus that have smooth soles! It can be as Safe Step, rather than salt, will head, a wrist, hip, or shoulder. in Wallingford. Medicare, dangerous and greatly increase prevent damage to concrete, grass, It's important to tuck your body, workers compensation, and your chance of slipping. and other vegetation or to carpets lift your head and avoid trying to most commercial insurances are The way you walk is just as and floors should you track some break the fall with a hand, which accepted. important as what you wear on indoors. can cause a wrist injury. The idea For additional information your feet. Remember to walk Unfortunately, even by is to make yourself as small as or a consultation, please call cautiously, and be alert to the following all of the above possible by rolling up into a ball. 203-679-6909. The Gift of a Lifetime this Holiday Season! by Richard F. Denno The holidays are the time for giving, of showing family, friends, and neighbors Connecticut Freemasons Have that you care through thoughtful gifts. SM The annual quest for ‘just the right gift’ the Power to Donate LifE has us trekking from store to store, or perusing endless catalogs till we are to live long enough to see their families eye donor. It is as easy as going to www. blurry-eyed. grow and prosper. There are graduations, donatelifenewengland.org and completing a In the past decade, online shopping has weddings, christenings they want to see. short online form. You can even make that captured an ever larger share of our buying These 116,000+ people are the patients who special registration gift in honor or memory dollar. It is so easy. Just click onto that are on the organ/tissue/eye donor waiting of that someone special. Completing that item, give them your credit card, and your list. For 18 of them, each and every day, form makes you ‘someone special,’ in the shopping worries are over for another year. time will run out before a lifesaving organ eyes of those 116,000 and the unfortunate Over 116,000 of our family, neighbors, becomes available. For many others on ‘+’ of the future; because until more special and friends across the country know exactly the waiting list, life will continue to be an people like yourself register, that number what they want this holiday season. They everyday struggle just to survive. will continue to grow. want what our money can’t buy – an This holiday season, you can go online On behalf of the Masonic Organ and opportunity to enjoy many more holidays and give the gift that truly ‘keeps on giving,’ Tissue Donor Awareness program, we wish to come. These patients, just like us, want by registering to become an organ/tissue/ you and yours a happy holiday season! December 2012 Connecticut Freemasons Page 11 Called to the Celestial Lodge We offer our condolences to the families and friends of these brothers who have been called by the Grand Architect of the Universe.

Arvid J. Anderson...... Shepherd-Salem 78 Leonard D. Johnson...... Amos Beecher 121 Robert E. Cerosky...... Madison 87 Gus D. Lawrence...... Annawon 115 Robert M. Cromwell...... Valley 36 Willoughby L. Lay...... Ansantawae 89 Charles M. Danks...... Acacia 85 Edward L. Matson Jr...... St. Luke's 48 William R. Deprospero...... Friendship Tuscan 145 Glenn D. Meeker...... Temple 65 George O. Ellis Jr...... Shepherd-Salem 78 W. Robert Newbold...... Valley 36 Robert E. Frantz...... Ansantawae 89 Alexander J. Perigyi...... Fidelity-St. John's 3 John A. Furanna Jr...... Ansantawae 89 Richard T. Pietras...... Friendship Tuscan 145 Pandely Gity...... Corner Stone-Quinebaug 122 John Richens Jr...... Wolcott 60 William J. Glanville...... Wyllys-St. John's 4 Ronald A. Ross...... Coastal 57 Jack Gordon...... Sequin-Level 140 William C. Scholl...... Ansantawae 89 Ronoel H. E. Groh...... Fidelity-St. John's 3 Edmund G. Sonntag...... Harmony 42 James W. Hall Jr...... Corner Stone-Quinebaug 122 John M. Tabak...... America-St. John's 8 Paul Hoha...... Friendship Tuscan 145 Everett W. Vreeland...... St. Luke's 48 James E. Hornburg...... Somerset-St. James 34 William H. Wheeler...... Morning Star 47 Channing M. Huntington...... Anchor 112 John P. Wildman...... Harmony 42

We thank our Masonic Governor Malloy Presented family for their continued support. With Challenge Coin by Creighton English used when ordering a round of drinks Connecticut Governor Dannel P. among friends and brothers if a Malloy was presented with a Challenge challenge coin is presented the brother Coin from Ark Lodge No. 39, Danbury, who cannot produce his challenge on October 22. The coin was presented coin pays the tab. by WB Creighton English, Past Master and Past Associate Grand Marshal. WB English had visited the Governor's office several times and noticed on one visit a collection of Challenge Coins. Ark Lodge had a Challenge Coin struck for their lodge members and as gifts for visiting dignitaries. Challenge Coins are a tradition of military lodges which date back to the earlier times, and were a tradition 500 Boston Post Rd. among several military lodges in Orange, CT 06477 Connecticut. Today they are often (203) 799-7999 Governor Dannel Malloy, left, accepted www.dia-designs.com the Ark Lodge Challenge Coin from WB Creighton English at the state capitol. Page 12 Connecticut Freemasons December 2012 Background checks...Really? by Ken Greenhill now, I have spearheaded a dialog And when do we start blaming and asking him the question? At the Grand Lodge that reminds us that we are the background committee for Of course, it will be argued that Communication this past the guards of the gate into our failing to find a man’s past? once we know about his past we October 27, we were presented fraternity, and it is through this I’m not the most tenured can confront him. Now there’s a a proposal to further the efforts process that we ensure that not brother among us, but in my friendly and inviting approach. of some who think background only men of questionable merit time as a Mason, anytime one’s Didn’t the Salem Witch trials checks will improve our craft in be excluded, but that we labor behavior as a Mason crosses and McCarthy hearings teach us Connecticut. While on the surface diligently to include all men of that line which we all know better? Nothing we could hire it may seem a prudent idea, given good character. Unquestionably, a exists, we have never hesitated someone to do will help to build the image of our society cast criminal background is a relevant to expel the brother, or at that personal bond that begins by a media weak in anything consideration that might offer least attempt to. Many years with three humble men, meeting other than fear mongering and insight into a man’s character, ago when I first began doing a prospect on the level and sensationalism, before you jump but isn’t this why we send three investigations I interviewed sharing how we may mutually on the misguided bandwagon, or more to meet the prospect? a man that I was sure didn’t gain from him laboring with us. I think there are several things To learn about him! What is so belong. Being inexperienced, I My brothers, let’s not kid to consider that make this very broken that we feel the need to asked a Past Grand Master for ourselves. Most of us recognize wrong for our fraternity. do this now? his advice. What he told me has that we need to do a better job The first point is that to justify Look around. How many never left me. He said, “We’re of investigating who we will call doing this because six or eight men of “questionable behavior” not perfect and with certainty brother. So maybe the process other jurisdictions are doing it do you feel have found their some men that don’t belong in is “bent” a bit and not broken, overlooks the obvious: forty or way into our fraternity? How Freemasonry will find a way in, so don’t panic. Before we hand more jurisdictions are not doing many got in by lying about their but from there one of two things off even a small part of our it! We are supposed to be a free criminal past? Further, if you do, will happen. They will either duty to the profane, consider thinking group who makes up in fact, know of any, exactly how embrace our ways or improve, how this will only make us our own minds based on truth, would a background check have or they will feel awkward and less special than we know not on unfounded fear. If there prevented them from gaining unwelcomed and will find their ourselves to be. This endeavor are other statistical justifications, admission? If you say that a way out.” is, I believe, wrong, not only I’d love to see them. failed check would keep them Background checks speak because it won’t solve anything, Absent to any real findings out, I offer this: if our institution about “predefined criteria” and not only because it diminishes to the contrary, the second point is fundamentally centered on an “approved firm.” Is it really the bond of brotherhood, not I believe we need to consider is, our ability to improve ourselves, that simple? Have we now only because it sets a tone of “Exactly what problem are we when does that begin? Isn’t that reduced Masonic morality to more unnecessary rules and trying to fix?” Do we suddenly a bit like the banks enticing a check mark made by people regulations that attempt to tell have masses of men with criminal us to borrow money but, only who are not invested in us any us “what to think instead of how backgrounds making their way loaning it to the ones that don’t more than earning a fee? When to think,” but mostly because into our ranks? What would be need it? When does a contrite did we stop being benevolent it’s just not Masonic! Let’s keep their motives? Money, fame, and humble heart outweigh a and trusting? What happened Masonry in front of us and ask if social stature? We all know how personal indiscretion? I don’t to looking a man in the eyes this really makes us better. unfulfilled that will prove to be. know the answer, but a qualified Few could argue that there are committee, properly trained, and many more brothers in our state looking the prospect in the eye more zealous about the quality would. How many of us are truly and value of a proper investigation willing to look past a “failed” than myself. For several years finding and elect this man? Turkeys for Food Bank by Larry Elsner The brothers of Hospitality Lodge No. 128, Wethersfield, presented the town of Wethersfield social services over 200 pounds of turkey, on Thursday, November 16. It came in the form of 16 birds weighing between 12-14 lbs. The brothers of the lodge continue to give generously of their time and money to support the "Food Bank" as part of their mission statement to be active in doing charitable work within "their" town. A local supermarket also gave the lodge a $25 gift card and given to the town. Hospitality Lodge is proud to serve their community, as their donation put the town over the top in being able to provide Thanksgiving dinners to those in need. December 2012 Connecticut Freemasons Page 13 Valley of New Haven, A.A.S.R. by Michael L. Castroll It seems that the adage “Time Sublime Prince when the allegory our membership chairman, way. Tis the season, so remember stands still for no one man” (or is presented as a separate degree. Brother Charles H, Tirrell, MSA, your families, your brothers, and words to that effect) has been This month our body heads or a member of the Membership yourselves. Whether your wish is the banner for this year. Our and directors should be aware to Committee. It’s that easy! for a Merry Christmas, a Happy Oktoberfest went off with gusto; send all pertinent information to Our best wishes go out to Hanukkah, a Good Kwanzaa, let the choice of lager was smooth our Valley Secretary, Ill. Vernon Illustrious Brother Richard it be good, happy, merry, and, going down and our business K. Cleaves for preparation for our Vernon Travis for his celebration most of all, healthy and safe. session packed a punch of its own. Spring Bulletin. of fifty years in Masonry. A very Happy New Year to all, Kudos to Brother Jim Kleinkauf That should be a beacon to Don’t forget to respond to the and and Ill. Brother Paul Chello for all: The time is now to plan for Blue Envelope when it comes your See you in the Valley… continuing to tickle the palate our Spring Reunion! The degree with their culinary expertise. casts and schedules are being It seems that our membership formulated; now, all we need are Annual Silent Auction at committee brought some candidates! thoughts from a recent Supreme Don’t ride and hide! Just Council seminar, with Brothers walk and talk! There is so much Masonicare at Newtown Tom Beck and Steve Allinson to talk about when the topic is filling in for Brother Charles H. the Scottish Rite! For each of us Features Decorated Tirrell, MSA. who have sought further light, On Monday evening, the Scottish Rite is special to December 4, the mastery of us. This Spring Reunion class Holiday Wreaths Lafayette Consistory will confer will be doubly special as the The Annual Holiday the wreaths and place a bid. Bids the 31° and the 32°. Come Northern Masonic Jurisdiction Wreath Silent Auction will will be closed at 12:00 noon on down and greet our latest group celebrates her bicentennial. Each begin on Monday, December December 17, when the highest of Sublime Princes. The action candidate will receive a pocket 3, at Masonicare at Newtown. bidders will be announced and all takes place at the Stratford jewel, an updated history of the The popular event features a winners can claim their wreath. Theater, the home of the Valley Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, silent auction of 21 unique, Winners will be notified if they of Bridgeport and Lafayette an anniversary video, further beautifully decorated holiday can’t be present on that date. Consistory. In the manner light and lots of I.C.E. (that’s wreaths, designed and trimmed All proceeds from the auction prescribed by our Supreme inspiration, convenience, and by Masonicare at Newtown will benefit The Masonic Charity Council, the 32° will ensue at enjoyment). employees. Foundation of Connecticut and 7:30 p.m., immediately followed The goal of the Northern The wreaths will be displayed will be used to support a host by the 31°. Masonic Jurisdiction is to in the lobby of Masonicare of activities for the residents of Today, the 32° is but a celebrate our bi-centennial with at Newtown until Monday, Masonicare at Newtown. Be sure prelude to the 31°, whose title a membership of 10,000 Scottish December 17. Everyone from to stop by and place a bid on has become “Knight Aspirant.” Rite brothers. Carry petitions the Masonic family and the your favorite! You might find the It is the allegorical center of the with you, or get them on-line. community is cordially invited perfect wreath for your home or Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret. See your lodge ambassador. If to visit the lobby any day to view for a special holiday gift. Hence, the aspirant is already a your lodge is without one see Past Master Wall Hangings Available A limited number of Past Master wall hangings are offered for sale. The hangings are 25” wide by 33” long. Each is made of 100% US cotton, with 175 picks per square inch to give it beautiful colors and rich definition. The wall hanging is backed with upholstery material and is dry clean only. It has the Masonic Monday, December 4 working tools on it with a bible verse 31° and 32° on the three steps. It is woven in a 7:30 p.m. German style weaving. Please send your check of $49.99 each to: Sandra D. Knotts, P.O. Box 158 Trexeltown, PA 18087 For further information, please contact A portion of each sale will be Valley Secretary Ill. Vernon K. Cleaves, 33° at 203-269-0336 donated to the Grand Lodge or any member of the Valley. youth activities by Mrs. Knotts.

Page 14 Connecticut Freemasons December 2012 Valley of Hartford, A.A.S.R. From the desk of David R. Blythe, Sr., Valley Secretary

Once again the calendar year own families, we should reach Coulter, John Dezzutti, David followed by a luncheon upon the is coming to an end and we enter out to those brethren, even if it is C. Lockard, Ulises J. Tooledano, completion of the degrees. another holiday season. However, just a telephone call, to let them and Thomas S. Zalonski. Our degrees are portrayed the Scottish Rite’s calendar year, know that they are not forgotten in a theatrical format, and you is only half finished. during this holiday season, and What to look for in 2013….. must see five degrees (including After a successful Scottish recalling, as members of this If you think you might like to the 4° and 32°) to become a Rite fall season, it is now time great Masonic family, we are all be part of the Scottish Rite family 32° Scottish Rite Mason. New to break and gather with family brothers. or seeking more information, members are encouraged to and friends, remembering that Enjoy this holiday season. the Valley of Hartford will host return to our Valley and to visit the happiest moments in life are Keep safe and relish ever minute an open house on Thursday, other Valleys to see the remaining those spent with family. Please of it until we again meet in 2013. February 7, 2013, at 7:30 p.m. degrees, remember the some of our fellow A Valley welcome to the Come down, meet the brethren, Should a Mason ask you brethren are alone, having either following brethren who were the tour our facilities, and learn what the Scottish Rite is all about lost their spouse or having no 2012 Fall Class: Brian J. Berk, Paul more about the Scottish Rite, its invite or bring him to the Open other family nearby. Although we D. Catanzaro, Sean Cavanaugh, charities, and its many Family House/Candidate Information now have time to spend with our Keith P. Clinton, Shawn C. Life activities. Night on February 7. To Master Masons who be The schedule this 2013 Spring interested in becoming a member, Class is: ask a Scottish Rite member about • Thursday, February 21 – the Scottish Rite, or contact the 4° and 14° Valley Secretary at 860-666-0712 • Thursday, March 7 – for more information or to obtain 10° and 16° a Scottish Rite Informational • Saturday, March 23 – DVD. (joint portrayal) 17° and 18° Happy holidays from the • Saturday, April 27 – officers and members of the 25° and the new 32° Valley of Hartford.

All Thursday evening degrees start at 7:30 p.m. Dee’s ANTIQUES We host an “All EXPERIENCED ANTIQUE DEALER WILL BUY You Can Eat” Collectibles, China, Old Furniture, Paintings, Silver buffet dinner Coins, Jewelry, Clocks, Books, and Picture Frames scheduled for Estates Liquidated and Purchased Outright The Masonicare Quality of Life Committee recently approved the 6:10 p.m. The Estate and Insurance Appraisals the use of Masonicare Annual Appeal dollars for the purchase of Saturday degrees Over 40 years of Experience a refurbished replacement organ for the Chapel at Masonicare Health are scheduled to Call: Thomas Spratta (203) 235-8431 Center. Here, RW Carl H. Anderson, Masonicare’s Vice President of start at 9:00 a.m., 600 West Main Street, Meriden, CT 06450 Mission Effectiveness and the head of Spiritual Services at Masonicare Health Center, demonstrates the new organ for the Quality of Life Committee. SAVE THE DATE Secretaries Mini-Seminar Sunday, January 13 • 2:00 p.m. and a Happy Holiday Grand Lodge Conference Room From the members of the Valley of Hartford If at you would like more information about becoming a member of the Wallingford Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, or would like a copy of Scottish Rite Informational DVD Contact David Blythe Sr., 330, Valley Secretary, at the Valley of Hartford Office 860-666-0712, RSVP: [email protected] or [email protected] or visit our Valley Website: www.valleyofhartford.org to obtain an application, or to obtain more information about the Valley of Hartford.

December 2012 Connecticut Freemasons Page 15 Commandery and DeMolay Explore Swords

by Carl G. Ek For the second year, the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Connecticut and New Haven Commandery No. 2, New Haven, have joined together to present program about Templary to DeMolays, their friends and families. The topic for 2012 was something of great interest to the DeMolays: swords. After the ‘all-you-can-eat’ pizza feed, Sir Knight Martin Ede offered historical background of swords, beginning with sharp stones attached to sticks. He discussed various styles of blade and the metallic composition of the weapons, from crude iron to alloyed steel. Past Grand Commander, Grand Prelate, and DeMolay Legion of Honor Bruce R. Bellmore discussed the structure of the Commandery organization and then offered the history of the knighting sword used by New Haven Commandery since 1872. In May of that year, members of St. John’s Commandery No. 4 of Philadelphia passed through New Haven on their way to the triennial meeting in Boston. A grand time was apparently had by all – no money was left in the Commandery treasury – and the visitors presented their hosts with a memento of their visit. In 1972, Grand Commander Kenneth B. Gray, also of New Haven Commandery, also a DeMolay Chevalier, sojourned to Philadelphia to present St. John’s Commandery with a Deputy State Master Councilor James Cavanaugh prepares to step in sword from New Haven. When he got there, he learned that after watching son-and-father team Eminent Sir Knights Randy S. that had been done in 1872, but no record of the gift existed. Stevens and Jack H. Stevens, Past Grand Commander, demonstrate forming an arch of steel, used to honor a dignitary being introduced.

Then St. John’s gave New Haven another sword, now worn by its Eminent Commander as a part of his uniform. Sir Knight Randy S. Stevens – another Senior DeMolay – displayed the use of swords in ceremonies, asking his chapter Dad – Sir Knight Jack H. Stevens, Past Grand Commander, and his own father – to assist him in displaying various positions employed to receive and honor dignitaries, and in degree work. New Haven Eminent Commander Brad Cooney offered sword stories from the Civil War. One concerned Pickett’s Charge, a Confederate assault on Union positions that is the topic of the Masonic ‘Friend to Friend’ monument on the Gettysburg battlefield. This is the only private monument that has ever been allowed to be erected at that hallowed site. Deputy State Master Councilor James Cavanaugh gave a report on the DeMolay ceremonial sword donated at the July Conclave by Past Grand Commander Leonard H. Bucher, an Auvergne DeMolay. This impressive sword is used in conferral ceremonies such as the Degree of Chevalier and the Legion of Honor. After remarks of thanks from DeMolay Executive Officer Harry E. Needham, III and RW Thomas M. Maxwell, II, representing MWGM Gary W. Arseneau, the DeMolay members and young people of all ages had the opportunity to hold and examine swords of various types and styles either Sir Knight Martin Ede discusses his personal Danish sword replica at owned by the Commandery or its members. And, of course, the Knights Templar DeMolay Family Night. there was plenty of hot pizza for dessert!

Page 16 Connecticut Freemasons December 2012 DeMolay Creates New Chevaliers

As Executive Officer Harry E. New Haven Chapter Past Master Councilor and The team shares a laugh before placing the cordon Needham, III, left looks on, acting Rhode Island DeMolay State Master Councilor and medallion around the neck of new DeMolay Grand Commander Salvatore R. Karl K. Parks kneels to take his obligation as a Chevalier Jeffrey Rowland, of Marcus Holcomb Ferrigno creates Bro. Ryan Beauvais DeMolay Chevalier as administered by acting Chapter, Southington. Standing, from left, are of Sleeping Giant Chapter, North Grand Commander Kirk C. Trofatter, Jr., center, Executive Officer Harry E. Needham, III; Worshipful Haven a Chevalier of the Order of chapter advisor in New Haven. Other members of Master Ryan Carlson of Friendship Lodge No. 33; DeMolay. This is the highest honor the team are, from left, Past State Master Councilor and Chevalier and Past State Master Councilor that DeMolay affords to an Active Paul Evangelista, Past State Scribe Benjamin G. Edward L. Lawson, Jr. Seated in the East is Most DeMolay. Stern, and Past State Junior Councilor Jamie Dunn. Worshipful Grand Master Gary W. Arseneau.

Support The Grand Master’s Appeal One of the best kept Masonic secrets is the Grand Master’s Appeal Donations In Memory of… Connecticut Freemasons Foundation. The Brother Charles C. Anderson Sr Brother Ralph O. Nystrom Grand Master’s Appeal letter has gone Brother George R. Atha John H. Rankin, SR Brother Edward Barry Barbara C. Ross out asking for your support of its charities. Brother Frank Bartlett Brother Walter E. Schroder, Jr Brother Joseph Biraglia Brother Mahlon J. Snow The Connecticut Freemasons Foundation WB Robert E. Cerosky Brother T. E. Stretton Brother Jack Elmgren Brother Norman R. Strong was organized to support philanthropic WB Burton Q. Ewell Brother Robert Telep pursuits beyond care of the elderly so ably Brother Harold Geer Sam Thistle Martha Geer Brother George L. Wallen done by The Masonic Charity Foundation. Brother Willis J. Griffing Brother G. Hall Walling Brother Thomas G. Heft Brother Robert L. White In the past a portion of the Grand Lodge Brother Thomas A. Hooey Brother William W. Wright Brother Warren G. Horton assessment was allocated directly to WB Louis O. House III Masonic charities. This is no longer the Brother Wesley M. Hoyt Grand Master’s Appeal RW Allyn Johnson case. Now these charities receive support Brother Arthur K. Kandetzki Donations In Honor of… from the Foundation which in turn gets its Brother Clarence Eugene King Most Worshipful Kenneth B. Hawkins, Sr. support from donations such as the Grand Brother Kenneth L. Kromer Claire Lawlor Master’s Appeal. John Lennon Brother Kenneth A. Lester Brother William Morse Jr Please keep us in mind when you receive Brother Richard G. Murphy the mailing for the Grand Master’s Appeal. Gretchen Louise Nave

December 2012 Connecticut Freemasons Page 17 Raised by his Father in Washington’s Room by James Wade D’Acosta A kerosene lantern cast a golden warmth as Sean English was raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason at the hand of his father Creighton. Minutes earlier fellow candidate Andrew Folkman experienced the Hiramic legend himself. About the upper room on this moonlit November evening stood men in Continental Army uniforms, Scottish kilts, and the cotton waistcoats and silk stockings of country gentlemen, and the humble go-to-church- and-weddings linen and wool of farmers and sailors. It was the first assemblage of Masons in Sun Tavern since 1809 when Jefferson ’s embargo on British trade paralyzed local business on the eve of the Second War for American Independence. When the tiler shuttered the 24-pane windows, he blocked views of historic surroundings known to generations of Their work complete, two new Master Masons pose with their brothers at the Sun Tavern. Masons in Fairfield since the founding of the lodge 250 years ago: in front stands town historian Walter Matis, examined our Associate Grand Marshal Ray Collette, under Town Hall, the Green with its whipping guest book only to find a cut out page where the watchful eye of Grand Junior Steward post, Kings Highway, which united the Washington ’s autograph would appear Steve Bowen, joined the brothers of Fidelity- colonies in revolution, and First Church had he attended a stated communication. St. John’s No. 3 in realizing the long held Congregational; out back, the old cemetery Nonetheless, Washington stayed overnight, ambition of re-congregating at the tavern. beckons the promise of the degree while a most likely in the room used for the degree. The rich character of the physical setting sandy marsh absorbs the wrath of tempests The privilege of meeting in Sun rewarded the efforts of WM Chris Jennings which excite the normally placid waters of Tavern resulted from a donation from the as the heavily attended event formed the Long Island Sound just a half mile off. Black Connecticut Freemasons Foundation, during capstone of his term. And so it came to pass Rock Harbor Lighthouse reminds us of the the tenure of MW James T. McWain, which that the narrow steps ascending to the second prominence and commercial prosperity allowed the Fairfield Museum and History floor of Sun Tavern and the room’s 12” Fairfield enjoyed before the British burned Center to complete renovations needed planks and open hearth beheld a message the town in 1779. to open the building to the public. Mike for the specters of our departed brothers: the Signs of the devastation lingered and were Sutila conducted the degree as he, other past vicissitudes of time bring pathos and joy, but noted by Brother George Washington ten masters, and Grand Lodge officers for District Masons persevere in Fairfield. So mote it be years later. The chaperone for the evening, 1B, District Deputy Rob Curwin, Jr. and for centuries yet unknown.

James Wade D’Acosta was striking in historical attire, as was More than 200 years since their last meeting at the historic Sun Tavern, brothers of most of the Colonial Degree team who performed the Master Fidelity-St. John’s again prepared for degree work. Mason degree. Page 18 Connecticut Freemasons December 2012 Masonic Vice-Presidents of the United States by Michael L. Castroll wasn’t easy as no United States Congress Columbia, but he was passed and There are many debates over candidate had a clear from his new home raised in St. Joseph Lodge No. 45, the so-called secrets of Masonry. majority, so the in Lexington, South Bend, Indiana. His greater Among these debates is the vice presidential Kentucky, in notoriety was as a major icon with number of Presidents of the United election was the heart of the International Order of Odd States were brothers in our craft. tossed out into Blue-Grass Fellows. Two of our presidents were Grand the Senate. country. After Adlai Ewing Stevenson Masters in their jurisdictions, but B r o t h e r s p e n d i n g was born in Christian County, did you know that one of our Vice Johnson was four years Kentucky. After his schooling, the Presidents was Grand Master of raised in Hiram as Vice family moved to Bloomington, his Grand Lodge? Lodge Lodge P r e s i d e n t , Illinois in 1852. First appointed as Eighteen Vice Presidents who No. 4, Frankfort, with growing assistant postmaster, he was elected were members of our beloved Kentucky, and Mount tensions moving to Congress on various occasions. craft. There may be more, but here Vernon Lodge No. 14. toward the Civil He was Grover Cleveland’s Vice is what I’ve come up with. You be He seemed to be swept up by War, he walked out of President during his second the judge. Oops, wrong branch! the tumult of the Morgan Affair. the Democratic Convention to term. He received his Masonic This list of patriots starts with In 1836, he was described as an head his own ticket and garner degrees in Metamora Lodge No. Brother George Clinton. Born “adhering Mason.” 72 electoral votes. His Masonic 82, Metamora, Illinois, and later in1739, this brother served in George Mifflin Dallas was a activity was exemplary, although affiliated with Bloomington the Continental Congress, and native of Philadelphia, the City of for a time the craft and he had Lodge No. 43. He served both of was Governor of New York and Brotherly Love. In 1818, Brother severed ties. Yet, he was well his lodges as Worshipful Master. became our third Vice President Dallas was initiated into Franklin loved by his Companions and Sir He was active in the York and serving both Thomas Jefferson Lodge No. 134, Philadelphia, and Knights, and was given a Knight Scottish Rite bodies, and during and James Madison. He was a served as the lodge’s Worshipful Templar funeral. his vice presidency, he was Grand brother of Warren Lodge No. Master in 1821. In his second term Andrew Johnson was born Orator, and then Grand Master of 17, and served as as master he presented lectures on in the rural Smokey Mountains the Grand Lodge of Illinois. Worshipful Master. His legacy was the origin, benefits, science, and of Tennessee, where he was Garrett A. Hobart was the first to have lodges named for him in principles of Masonry, and offered apprenticed to a tailor. He was of Brother William McKinley’s vice various places along the Hudson. a resolution to the Pennsylvania self-taught in every other way. He presidents. A native of Monmouth Next was Elbridge Gerry, Grand Lodge on how to handle earned the respect of his fellow County, New Jersey, he graduated whose Masonic history is no less grievances. He was later to become citizens and was elected to the state from Rutgers. He spent ten years speculative than his infamous Grand Master of Pennsylvania. He legislature. His reputation grew, in both houses of New Jersey’s Gerrymander, a short-lived served as Mayor of Philadelphia, and he was elected to the U. S. legislative bodies. He was raised redistricting plan put in place Governor of Pennsylvania, was Senate. When the southern states in Falls City Lodge, in Paterson, while Governor of Massachusetts. elected to the U.S. Senate, and seceded to form the Confederate New Jersey. and was very active, He was a well known member served as Ambassador to Russia. It States of America, Andrew Johnson in all of the York and Scottish Rite of Philanthropic Lodge in is no wonder Brother James Polk was one of the few southerners bodies. His term as Vice President Marblehead, for this signer of chose Brother George Dallas to be remaining. It was enough to was cut short by his untimely the Declaration of Independence his running mate, and serve as our convince President Lincoln death in 1899. the minutes accounting for his eleventh Vice President. to jump horses in 1864. Bro. Theodore Roosevelt has a initiation have yet to be found. William Rufus King was born Johnson became our seventeenth resume which one can read in any Daniel D. Tompkins was our in rural Samson County, North Vice President and, with Lincoln, history book. President McKinley sixth vice president, the son of Carolina and became Minister forged the Union Party to needed someone like Teddy a farmer and a Columbia alum to France and a United States encourage Democrats who would Roosevelt to be our twenty-fifth went on to bigger things. He Senator, before his eventual rise not vote for a Republican. Five Vice President. When President was raised in Hiram Lodge No. as Vice President under Franklin weeks after inauguration Brother McKinley was shot, it was a week 72, Mount Pleasant, New York. Pierce. He knelt at the altar of Andrew Johnson was hurriedly of waiting, before our twenty- He served several lodges before Masonry at Phoenix Lodge No. 8, sworn into the presidency after fifth Vice President was to be being seated as Grand Master of Fayetteville, North Carolina. the assassination of President sworn in as our twenty-sixth chief NewYork. He served as Governor John Cabell Breckinridge Lincoln. executive. Shortly after becoming of the state, and in 1813, he was served as our Vice President in Schuyler Colfax served as vice president Brother Roosevelt honored by becoming the first the administration of Brother President Grant’s first Vice- knelt at the altar of Masonry and Sovereign Grand Commander James Buchanan. Another President. A native of New York took his Masonic obligations in of the Scottish Rite’s Northern Kentucky native, he was raised City, he moved to Indiana with Matinecock Lodge No. 806, in Masonic Jurisdiction, 200 years Des Moines Lodge No. 42 (now his family in 1836. He went from Oyster Bay, Long Island, New York. ago next year. No. 1) in Burlington, Iowa, while assistant auditor of St. Joseph’s I was to witness the centennial Blue Grass native Richard M. sojourning there. He served two County to Congress, and then celebration of his raising in the Johnson was born in Bryant’s years as Senior Warden before to the Vice Presidency. He was lodge. Station, Kentucky. Getting to be moving back to Kentucky. In initiated in Lebanon Lodge Martin Van Buren’s vice president the 1850’s he was elected to the No. 7, Washington, District of See Vice-Presidents Page 20

December 2012 Connecticut Freemasons Page 19

We welcome our new brothers to the fraternity.

Daniel P. Alexander...... Anchor 112 Anthony J. Basso II...... Meridian 77 David F. Mosher...... Anchor 112 John R. Steele...... Meridian 77 Tyrhon D. Coward...... Daytime 144 Anthony J. Sullivan...... Meridian 77 Anthony S. Angelica...... Estuary 43 Thomas J. McCabe...... Temple 16 Todd C. Schafer...... Estuary 43 Jonathan M. Baron...... Temple 65 Nicholas J. Valentine...... Estuary 43 Earl B. Kane...... Temple 65 Virgil C. Williams...... Estuary 43 James A. Oliver Jr...... Temple 65 Steven M. Austin...... Friendship Tuscan 145 David R. Rupar...... Temple 65 Joseph D. Barros Jr...... Friendship Tuscan 145 Pablo J. Franco...... Uriel 24 Donald A. Janelle...... Friendship Tuscan 145 Jason E. Allen...... Washington 81 Scott A. Manley...... Friendship Tuscan 145 Robert Hamm...... Washington 81 Connor E. Murphy...... Friendship Tuscan 145 William E. Meyest...... Washington 81 Jordan B. Porcher...... Friendship Tuscan 145 Jose M. Quinones...... Washington 81 Stephen P. Grigorian...... Hartford Evergreen 88 Richard Telesca...... Washington 81 Robert P. Cochran...... Ionic 110 Vice Presidents… continued from page 19 Governor of Indiana. During the as grand master of the Indiana the Masonic Service Association 1912 campaign, he coined the Grand Council of R.& S. M., was publicized his grandson’s raising. Thomas R. Marshall was our phrase, “What this country needs an Illustrious Member of the Next on the list is Lyndon twenty-eighth Vice President is a good five-cent cigar.” He was Scottish Rite’s Northern Masonic Baines, a teacher who ran for to President Woodrow Wilson. raised in Columbia City Lodge Jurisdiction, whom he served as Congress in 1936, and stayed in While Wilson was Governor of No. 189, Columbia City, Indiana Active from September 25, 1911. Washington. He moved on to the New Jersey, Brother Marshall was Among his accolades, he served Henry A. Wallace was the son Senate, then wound up as John of Brother Henry C. Wallace, F. Kennedy’s Vice-President. He who served the Harding and became our thirty-sixth President Coolidge administrations as on November 22, 1963. He was an d d Secretary of Agriculture. After Entered Apprentice Mason, being Congratulations a successful publishing career initiated in Johnson City Lodge he found himself in Brother No. 561, Johnson City, Texas Roosevelt’s New Deal as Secretary .Brother Johnson’s Vice We congratulate this brother of Agriculture, then Secretary President, was Brother, Sir Knight, of Commerce, and in the third and Noble Hubert Horatio who has achieved 75 years term as Vice President. He was Humphrey and took his Masonic a brother of Capital Lodge No. degrees in Cataract Lodge No. 2, of Masonic membership. 138, Des Moines, Iowa. Minneapolis, Minnesota. William Ledewitz...... Cosmopolitan 125 Harry S Truman was born in The last in the list is Illustrious Lamar, Missouri and educated Brother and former President in Independence, Missouri. In Gerald R. Ford, Jr., the only chief 1909, he took his first Masonic executive not elected to the office. We congratulate these brothers steps at Belton Lodge, then He was initiated on September 30, charter Master of Grandview 1949, in Malta Lodge No. 465, who have achieved 50 years Lodge. In 1940, he was elected Grand Rapids, Michigan, with of Masonic membership. Grand Master of Missouri. He his two half-brothers. He took was Bro. Franklin Roosevelt’s his Fellowcraft and Master Mason William J. Bossoli...... Day Spring 30 Vice President for only 82 days, degrees in Columbia Lodge No. 3, Kenneth M. Burack...... Cosmopolitan 125 before being sworn in as chief Washington, D.C., on April 20 and Robert J. Campbell...... Hiram 18 executive. During his presidency, May 18, 1951. As luck would have Bradford G. Gesler...... Orange 143 he served as Worshipful Master of it, the only leadership position he Wayne J. Kovi...... Compass 9 The Missouri Lodge of Research, really wanted he never got to be, Martin A. Van Buiten...... Compass 9 while his sister was Grand Matron Speaker of the House. Betty got of Missouri Eastern Star. Last year, that one!

Page 20 Connecticut Freemasons December 2012 Moriah Lodge No. 15 Fills the Halls at Second Annual Down-East Maine Table Lodge by Edward Page his attendance at Moriah’s officer Saturday, September apron presentation in 2011, 22, culminated in a year of and his visits to to preparation for Moriah Lodge No. participate in golf tournaments. 15’s Second Annual Down-East WB Edward presented Brother Maine Table Lodge. This year’s Charlie with a package of cigars dinner was open to Masons and from the Excalibur line, (known non-Mason males over 18. One to be a favorite of his), and an brother, who has participated in antique ice cream scoop donated many table lodges, texted his wife by Brother Philip Russell. MW that it was the best table lodge he Buck was then made an honorary A panoramic of the Moriah Lodge Table Lodge in Brooklyn shows the eight had ever been to. member of Moriah Lodge and foot lighthouse in the center of the tables. Brothers and guests were handed a 2012 dues card. treated to visual and auditory A video displayed on the for everyone's participation to lodge pin, and Manchester Lodge sensations. In the middle of large screen assisted the first toast help support him. Music started No. 12 presented their pin. the lodge was a fully functional of the evening. Brother John and he circled the room stopping WB Edward emotionally white lighthouse standing over Wayne, performed “Why I Love to insert a pink carnation into recalled his service as Associate eight feet tall . In the east, a large Her,” a glowing tribute to the his jacket with the song “A White Grand Marshal to Kenneth screen with surround sound United States, after which a toast Sport Coat and a Pink Carnation” R. Sheldon Jr. and formally showed videos of Tom Jones, to our country was given. playing. At the first chorus WB introduced him. Afterward, he Bobby Darin, Frank Sinatra, and RW Kenneth R. Sheldon Jr. Edward took a knee and sung presented him with one of his Johnny Cash, among others. turned the lights off except for the directly to Lady Christina and gave favorite bourbons and a warm After a brief greeting by Moriah altar light. A brief history on how her his carnation. Encouraging embrace. Lodge Master, WB Edward C. Page, the Portland Head lighthouse everyone to join in, he bestowed The final toast was to all the event was underway. Most was ordered by Brother and the second chorus on RW’s Ken R. Freemasons wheresoever Worshipful Grand Master Gary W. President George Washington Sheldon and Michael B. Dodge. dispersed, and the final song, Arseneau was presented specialty and was ultimately established The song finished to a round of Billy Joel’s, “And So It Goes,” was chocolates hand made from Maine on January 10, 1791, just months applause and laughter. dedicated to the wives who allow for his lady, a miniature lobster after Moriah Lodge No. 15 was The night continued with their husbands the opportunity trap with accompanying utensils, chartered on October 15, 1790. other toasts and playlists, and to join together and make great and finally a commemorative Music cued the dousing of all a presentation of St. John’s friends in the hope of becoming terrycloth bib embroidered with remaining light as a Gregorian Commandery wine to MW better husbands. The kitchen “Moriah #15 Table Lodge 2012” chant broke the silence. A fog Greene. crew was awarded the biggest encircling a Maine lobster. The light on the lighthouse slowly The large screen played an round of applause for their timely bib was embroidered by Lady glowed and then revolved, orchestral version of Monty preparation and execution of the Christina, wife of WM Edward exposing a fog covered ground, Python's “Always Look on the evening. Page. created by a hidden fog machine. Bright Side of Life” and the WB Edward stated, “The Music filled the lodge with a WB Edward proudly announced, friends and brothers were singing reason I became a Mason was flavor for everyone; country, blue “Friends and brothers, I give along and enjoying themselves. my father. Some of the fondest grass, pop, and even Gregorian you the coast of Maine.” Hall The next presentation was memories as a child were when chants. Past Grand Master Charles lights were slowly increased and to brothers from Rhode Island. our family would drive down A. Buck Jr. was acknowledged for applause filled the air. RW Russell Davis, Deputy Grand from Maine and catch a Red Sox After the second toast, WB Master, WB Bob Sweet, RW Glenn game. Now there is a tradition at Edward said MW Bill Greene Carlson, and WB Scott Alger Fenway started by former player singing along at last year’s were presented two Mason jars and now broadcaster, Jerry Remy, table lodge, reminded him of of Connecticut “moonshine” for to sing a particular song.” So his father, Orville C. Page, the their support and friendship. WB the group sang Neil Diamond’s most outgoing person he had Bob Sweet told how when he “Sweet Caroline,” replacing Auld ever known. WB Edward asked and WB Edward played golf, WB Lang Syne. his wife, Lady Christina, to be Edward would lose his tees after Afterward, MW Gary stated escorted and seated in the West. every hole. WB Bob presented many don’t know the words WB Edward revealed to the him with a bag of tees. WB Edward to Auld Lang Syne and Sweet guests his fear of public speaking, always wore a black Moriah Lodge Caroline leaves a festive mood but has restrained from singing polo shirt, so he was presented with all. With that the Table GM Gary Arseneau accepts an given his discomfort in front of him with a navy blue Friendship Lodge was closed and many happy embroidered bib from WB Edward others. With that, he replaced his Lodge polo shirt. RW Russ also brothers and friends slowly left a Page. jacket with a white one and asked presented WB Edward a RI Grand friendly Moriah Lodge. December 2012 Connecticut Freemasons Page 21 Grand Oration Offers Masonic Tolerance

Editor's note: Brother James G. Martin is a past would one day bring Because of the intensity of governor of the state of North Carolina. He gave him down . . . but not this controversy, when I was this address as the "oration" to the Grand Lodge while he enjoyed the in graduate school 55 years of North Carolina's annual communication on protection of his friend ago, most young scientists September 21. Maffeo Barberini, who had abandoned their religious had become Pope upbringing, and had no interest Most Worshipful Grand Master, Brother Urban VIII. in it. That could not happen to Masons: This Pope Urban, me, of course, because my dear It is with great pleasure that I recognize in a friendly gesture, mother was a preacher’s wife, and the attendance today of the delegation from suggested to Galileo that my brothers and I knew serious the Grand Lodge of the Prince Hall Grand he write a comparison doubt would not be allowed. Lodge of North Carolina. As my first address of the two theories (that This controversy, both before this Most Worshipful Grand Lodge the earth moved around about evolution and the age of of North Carolina was for the purpose of the sun versus that the Brother James G. Martin the universe, continues today, proposing mutual recognition between these sun moved around the and I would expect that there two Grand Lodges, it is special to see this day. earth), and please feel free to use Urban’s are many good Masons on both sides. It Let me share with you that the lambskin own views in favor of the earth-centered is not my purpose to fan those flames, but apron I wear today belonged to my late father cosmology. When Galileo published his rather to bring hope that there is a growing . . . whose eyes were the first I beheld when I “Dialogue Concerning the Two Chief World reconciliation between science and religion. awoke symbolically to the Light of the Third Systems,” it was styled as a debate between I offer no criticism of what any of you might Degree in Freemasonry. I expect others here Salviati (who gave all the most convincing believe. I do remind myself that our ideal is experienced this. arguments for the sun-centered concept) to be tolerant of the personal road to faith of In Masonry, we learn brotherly love and versus Simplicio (the “simpleton,” who gave another. respect. We learn to enjoy genuine fellowship. weak arguments for the popular earth- Today, I can tell you, there are a growing We learn the value of shared responsibility. centered view). number of scientists who believe in God, Today’s lesson is about religious tolerance I can tell you that the Pope’s own words mostly devout Christians, who also believe in among brother Masons. did not translate brilliantly from the mouth what we are learning from science. Some of Suppose there was a friend who was a of Simplicio, and His Holiness was insulted. us see science (even evolution) as a modern biologist, who believed in evolution (or who The Inquisition was turned loose on Galileo. kind of revelation that God has allowed us to didn’t). If I had problems with that, would He was convicted of meddling in theology, reveal. That might not appeal to everybody, it be better for me to drive him away unless commanded to recant his beliefs (which he but it is leading more scientists to switch he came around to my belief? Or should I did), and sentenced to house arrest for the sides . . . toward God. We can rejoice in that. encourage him to find his salvation the best rest of his life. Of course, he has now been The director of the National Institutes way he could by his own lights? The answer restored to the Faith by Pope John Paul II, of Health, Dr. Francis Collins (a graduate is easy for us as Masons. who acknowledged that, after all, “Galileo of University of North Carolina Medical It was 402 years ago that a devout Catholic was the better theologian.” School) is the man who led the Human layman named Galileo built his telescope The armistice between science and Genome Project to map human DNA. He and examined the heavens in a new way. He religion was relatively peaceful for another was an atheist who converted to evangelical saw things that had never been seen before: 222 years… until a shy young scholar, Christianity when he read C.S. Lewis’s sunspots, blemishes on the moon, four and former Protestant seminarian named account of his own conversion from atheism astonishing moons around Jupiter (which Charles Darwin finally (after stalling for 27 to Christian scholar. Dr. Collins has written you can see with good binoculars), and most years) published his ideas “On the Origin of a brilliant book, the title of which is a controversial of all: that Venus showed the Species.” This was well-received at first, until metaphor for DNA, which he calls: “The entire range of phases just like our moon (full, T.H. Huxley, an atheist friend who called Language of God.” gibbous, 3/4, and thin crescents). For 1,500 himself “Darwin’s Bulldog,” chased all over Collins is not alone. He is part of a growing years, mankind had been comforted that the Europe defending evolution, while using it host who see evidence of the Creator of the Earth was immovably fixed, while the sun, to promote atheism. universe in many fields of science. Physicists moon and all the planets and stars revolved The mild-mannered Darwin himself let and astronomers are pointing out that there around the earth. The phases of Venus meant others carry his torch, and that’s what got him are a dozen or so basic physical constants that at least Venus (and, arguably, all the rest) in deep trouble. His friend Herbert Spenser that are so Finely Tuned that if any one of revolved around the sun. coined the phrase “survival of the fittest” them were ever so slightly larger or smaller Of course, it got Galileo in trouble with and applied it to social and governmental (by one part in a hundred million), the Earth his Aristotelian colleagues. Galileo wrote to organizations . . . what he called Social . . . and we, would not be here. It is as if the his worried patrons, the powerful Medici in Darwinism. Darwin’s cousin Francis Galton universe, at the moment of Creation, knew Florence, that “the Bible tells us not how the took this to the extreme of advocating we were coming! This raises the obvious heavens go, but how to go to heaven.” eugenics: if evolution could select the fittest, theological question: Who fine-tuned these This might have passed as idle conjecture, then let’s help by selecting and favoring constants? except for the personality of Galileo: you who gets to reproduce. The Nazi’s, of course, see, he enjoyed taunting his Aristotelian took this to even greater depths of genocidal …continued on following page colleagues, and proving them wrong. They depravity. Page 22 Connecticut Freemasons December 2012 …continued from previous page

Others of us are raising the issue of Do you see what I am saying? I have no improve our own minds if we can listen to complexity in the structure and order of life . . quarrel with another’s reverent belief. It could the ideas of others with respect. . so vastly complex that even if the Earth is 4.5 not be my purpose to place any obstacle in That was my purpose today: billion years old, that’s not long enough for the religious path of another. Each of us must To stretch our minds upon a serious and this to happen just by chance. There had to be find our own way. I am trying to show that profound subject; millions of miracles along the way. An atheist there is a new attitude among scientists with To show that after 400 years of conflict would have to say “We were just lucky!” But regard to religion. Perhaps one might choose between science and religion, some of which that is a vast leap of faith on his part. to believe in God and science (both God’s continues vigorously today, there is a growing As a chemist, I am writing a book about word and God’s science). There is certainly reconciliation between science and religion; this, pointing out that even the natural today a growing reconciliation between and chemicals in our bodies are evidence of a science and religion. To report that many modern scientists wise, powerful, and benevolent Creator. Each What is more important, physicists, (physicists, biologists and now chemists) are of the amino acids that make up protein, for biologists, and now chemists are showing finding evidence of miraculous creation. example, could be either right-handed or its evidence that a lot more has gone into this Astronomer Robert Jastrow has put it mirror image, left-handed. In the lab we can universe than random chance can ever nicely: only synthesize absolutely equal amounts of explain. Many theologians have shown “For the scientist who has lived by his faith each, but in life all amino acids in proteins interest in this, for now it is atheists who are in the power of reason, the story ends like a are strictly left-handed. How can that be? on the defensive. bad dream. He has scaled the mountains of Because when proteins are assembled Whether you choose to believe the Earth is ignorance; he is about to conquer the highest along the folds of the DNA helix, only the left- 6,000 years old, as scholars have interpreted peak; as he pulls himself over the final rock, handed amino acids fit. Why? It is because the the Book of Genesis; or whether you choose he is greeted by a band of theologians, who DNA helix always turns in the right-handed to believe that it is 4.5 billion years old, as have been sitting there for centuries.” fashion, exactly like the threads of all familiar science has interpreted the radioactive decay You may always reach your own nuts and bolts. Actually, Chrysler once built of isotopes in deep rock formations and conclusions about all of this. My prayer a car with left-handed lug nuts on the left meteorites, either way, you have an abundance in taking up this subject is that through side but customers kept stripping the threads of evidence to support your Faith in God. the lessons of Freemasonry each of us will changing tires, and Chrysler gave it up. But One important aspect of Freemasonry become stronger in our own faith, while ever DNA is never left-handed. This could never is that we are free to search for the truth, by tolerant of the faith of others. happen by chance. Did our Creator know our own lights and intelligence. We don’t And rejoice when each lamb is saved. what every hardware clerk understands? always come out at the same place. Yet, it can Amen! So mote it be! Front Columns Replaced in Monroe by Roy Nealon the George Griffin Fund in One of the most pronounced architectural 1904. features of the town of Monroe is the historic Over one hundred years Masonic hall with its four large white later, the columns were columns similar to those on the White deteriorating and needed to House in Washington, D.C. This is the home be replaced. A large donation of Washington Lodge No. 19. The hall was from Monroe businessman and originally built with $7,000 provided from philanthropist Brother Bernie Sippin purchased new columns and had them installed recently. The base of the columns and outdoor stairway to the lodge were also repaired by the brothers of Washington Lodge. Replacement columns were installed in November, returning the For the repair of the Washington Lodge building to its normal appearance. stairs and base of the columns the lodge giving a sense of urgency while the base and gives special thanks to Tommy stairway underwent renovation. Beard and Wayne Saunders. Bro. With the new columns in place, the Doug Wilson did all the painting. Washington Lodge building returns to its Many other members donated normal self. Washington Lodge No. 19 is their sweat equity. believed to be the first Masonic lodge in the The two large white outer columns of Washington Lodge No. For about six weeks the roof country named for Brother and President 19 were removed in October. was held up by only two columns, George Washington. December 2012 Connecticut Freemasons Page 23 Second Annual Chicken Challenge Benefits Works of Masonicare Hiram Lodge Victorious in Competition by Adam Raider West Haven, participated in the In November, WB Steven competition. M. Allinson and Bro. Douglas “I was honored to serve A. Gray of Hiram Lodge No. as a judge at the Chicken 1, New Haven, presented The Challenge,” said Patricia L. Masonic Charity Foundation Morgan, The Foundation’s of Connecticut with a check director of development, “and representing proceeds from obviously very pleased that all the Second Annual Masonic of the participating lodges chose Chicken Challenge. Included to make The Masonic Charity in this gift were proceeds from Foundation the beneficiary of Hiram Lodge’s Halloween this fundraiser.” Bowling Party. As Masonicare’s philan- Jennifer A. King, executive director of The Masonic Charity Foundation of This year’s chicken tender thropic affiliate, The Masonic Connecticut, right, receives the proceeds from the chicken eating contest eating contest was held in June Charity Foundation provides from WB Steven M. Allinson, second from left, and RW Douglas A. Gray. at the Orange Ale House in important funding to Masonicare “Judge” Patricia L. Morgan, director of development at The Masonic Orange. Brothers from Hiram to help bridge the gap between Charity Foundation looks on. Lodge No. 1, Ansantawae Lodge Medicaid reimbursement and No. 89, Milford, Trumbull Lodge the actual cost of delivering benefit Masonicare residents spiritual services, and recreational No. 22, New Haven, Corinthian care. The Foundation also helps and patients when no other activities as well as repairs to Lodge No. 103, North Haven, underwrite important programs, funding source is available. These power chairs and refurbishment and Annawon Lodge No. 115, services, and equipment to purchases include transportation, of resident dining rooms.

by Mike Colgan Organizers Mike Colgan and Steve Allinson It was standing room only at the Ale House On a hot Saturday afternoon in June, and team leaders from the various teams as brothers, family and friends of the various five lodges met on the field of battle at the agreed on the Orange Ale House as the teams cheered them on. Over 45 minutes Orange Ale House to determine who had the location for this year’s challenge. The teams to a booming soundtrack of inspirational most perseverance and largest appetite. After were lead by Bro. Mike Colgan from Hiram anthems, thirty brothers, six from each team, 45 minutes of gustatory glory, one lodge was No. 1, Bro. Thom Beck from Trumbull No. crammed as many chicken fingers into their crowned victorious, and over $2,000 was 22, Bro. Gregg Bateman from Ansantawae ravenous maws as they could for the cause raised for the Masonic Charity Foundation's No. 89, WB Kris Maiorino from Corinthian of charity. Spectators contributed moral and Quality of Life Fund. No. 103, and Bro. Frank Mangiero from financial support by purchasing raffle squares, The Chicken Challenge was dreamed up Annawon No. 115. handsome t-shirts designed by WB Sal in early 2011 by members of Hiram Lodge No. Ferrigno, and food specials. When it was all 1, New Haven, Ansantawae No. 89, Milford over, Hiram Lodge was once again victorious and Corinthian No. 103, North Haven, to with 172 chicken strips devoured. Hiram’s combine Masons’ love for camaraderie, good Geoff Johnson smashed the previous single- food, charity, and friendly competition. The person record of 21 by gobbling 37 fingers. first Chicken Challenge was held at Griff’s Once again, Masons celebrated with fun, Chicken Shack in Hamden and raised food, and friendship, and raised money for money through a raffle for the charity of the a great cause. Organizers look forward to winning team’s choice. The winners from expanding the event further next year and Hiram Lodge chose to donate the proceeds seeing even more teams compete for chicken from the Challenge to the Masonic Charity glory. T-shirts are still available for $15, Foundation's Quality of Life fund. with all proceeds to the Masonic Charity The Challenge drew so much interest Foundation's Quality of Life Fund. that new teams from Annawon Lodge 115, Jennifer A. King, executive director of The Contact WB Steven Allinson at West Haven, and Trumbull Lodge No. 22, Masonic Charity Foundation of Connecticut, [email protected] or Bro. Michael New Haven, joined in the fray, so organizers can’t believe her eyes at the Chicken Challenge Colgan at [email protected] for more had to find a larger venue for the rematch. that would benefit the Quality of Life Fund. details.

Page 24 Connecticut Freemasons December 2012 Life’s Journey, an address from Virginia Editor's note: This is a portion of the lived in the valley of struggle and journey with my fellowmen, may By putting an arm around address of Grand Master William pain, and sharing the load of I be privileged to bring joy where a new brother's shoulder and Talbott Ellison, Jr. at the annual others. When anyone serves self sorrow once ruled; smiles to showing him the way to light- communication of the Grand Lodge he has lost a most important part replace tears; to plant a flower of even further light - and then of Virginia. of life, for the brotherhood under happiness in those hearts where still more light. In so doing, we I am a traveler on a one way God is all important. the weeds of despair once grew. begin to show a bit of Masonry's journey through life and never When we help to improve, Then it is that we remember mission - A way of life. expect to retrace my steps or come and build the brotherhood of Jesus' statement, "In as much as this way again. We must be careful man, under the fatherhood of ye do it to the least of these my I would not give much for what we think, for our minds God, we can feel His presence. brethren, ye do it also unto me." your Freemasonry unless it can will dwell too long on our own The Great Light has warned us As I try to follow a pattern set be seen. Lamps do not talk but importance, our own power and all that, "as a man thinketh in his by an apostle of Christianity, may they shine. A light-house sounds authority, instead of our ability heart so is he." I never falter as I press toward no drum, it beats no gong and to serve. My yesterdays are keen Since I pass this way but the work of the high calling; but yet far over the water its friendly recollections of tasks neglected, once, my hope is that some may should I stumble and fall, may spark is seen by the mariner. So or undone, mixed with pleasant be glad that I came and perhaps the grace of the Great Architect let your actions shine out your memories of the few things done regret that I am leaving. To serve lift me up and start me forward, Masonry. Let the main sermon well. My tomorrows hold promise another is to advance the cause going His way. of your life be illustrated by your of opportunities to do bigger and of fellowship, thereby improving It is then that we are looking conduct, and it shall not fail to be better things. My present is being the Brotherhood of man. As I for His blessings and not man's. illustrious. John Sasser, III, Awarded MSA by William L. Breed Frederick H. Lorenson, Jr., 33° Meritorious in the degrees, and then in the kitchen Brother John Sasser III, 32°, was the Service Award. At the 133rd session of the helping with the meal service. Valley of Norwich 2012 recipient of the Ill. Connecticut Council of Deliberation in June Brother John works behind the scenes 2012, the council approved a proposal doing many little things such as mow the to rename the award to recognize lawns, trim the bushes, repair running the Masonic service of Ill. Bro. Fred, toilets, and service humidifiers— everything Connecticut Grand Master for 1983 and that is necessary to keep the building and Deputy for Connecticut of the Scottish grounds up to snuff. Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction from The Meritorious Service Award 1994 to 1997. recognizes Brother John as a most devoted Brother Sasser was presented his and deserving brother. MSA Jewel and Red Cap by Ill. Brother David L. Sharkis, 33°, Deputy for Connecticut, at the Preston Masonic Center during a meeting of the King Solomon Lodge of Perfection on October 13. Brother John has served as Most Wise Master, Norwich Chapter of Rose Croix, and president of the Corporation, and has served on the Executive Committee and the Budget and Audit Committees for several years. He coordinates the food end of the North Stonington Fair food booth while Ill Brother T. J. Nelson, 33°, is in charge of labor. Brother John is a member Ill. David L. Sharkis, 33°, left, congratulates the of the stage set up crew and new Ill. Frederick H. Lorenson, Jr., 33° Meritorious on degree days can be found Service Award recipient, Brother John Sasser, III, at assisting with scene changes, the Valley of Norwich. donning costumes to participate December 2012 Connecticut Freemasons Page 25 Hiram Lodge Halloween Bowling Night by Michael Calderone The ghouls and goblins, as well as a few super heroes and princesses, were out the Saturday, October 28 at Hiram’s first Halloween Bowling Night. Organized by Junior Deacon, Bro. Tim Wilkins, thirty-two of the Brothers of Hiram Lodge No. 1, New Haven, and their guests were treated to a night of spooky cakes, costumes prizes, and, of course, bowling at the Amity Lanes in Woodbridge. On hand were ten kids between the ages of three and twelve, all in costumes including Penelope Boone as Supergirl, Gabe Fasano as a skeleton, and his brother, Jake, dressed all in black except for a dotted yellow line down his middle with Matchbox Cars on either side. You guessed it, he was the Merritt Parkway! He drove off with the best costume award for boys and, brother, Gabe, won high bowling score for boys at 100. Emily Calderone won for best girl costume as Katniss Everdeen from the Hunger Games books Sara Boone and Emily Fasano as the good and movie, much to the chagrin of her sister, and bad angels, didn’t win any trophies, but Rebecca dressed as the red-headed Merida from had a lot of fun. the movie, Brave. To make matters worse, Emily also won high bowling score for girls at 112. Awards were also given out for top adult bowling scores: Mary Wilkins, 202 and Jim Battipaglia, 212. Best adult costumes went to Bro. Jason Bounce’s zombie and Mary Wilkins’ Catwoman. Other notable costumes were worn by WM Steve Allinson (Dr. Who), Bro. Andy Boone (a clown), the duo of Sara Boone and her sister Emily Fasano who dressed as Good and Bad angels. Thanks to Bro. Tim (Capt. Jack Sparrow that There was enough Halloween cake to go Emily Calderone won for best costume and night!) for his hard work in putting this night around at Hiram’s first Halloween Bowling shows off her high bowling score trophy. together. Night. Spirit of ’76 Alive in Waterbury in November by Chris Martinelli his girlfriend Beth Lavallee and Bros. Dave The month of November proved to be a Hodgeman and Dominic Basile helped the fruitful and busy month for the members of Connecticut Food Bank. Members joined the Liberty-Continental Lodge No. 76, Waterbury, non-profit organization’s volunteers to stock under the leadership of WM Mark Orsini. The a truck with over 4,000 turkeys to be disbursed members started off the month on November to families in need. 3 helping their partners, Harmony Lodge Later that day the lodge partnered with No. 42, with a workday to install new light Harmony Lodge No. 42 as RW Marshall fixtures. Two days later the brothers hosted Robinson conducted a Master Mason Degree a presentation by RW Carl Anderson about and raised a new Master Mason for Harmony Masonicare. Lodge. Brothers Chris Martinelli and Stewart On November 10, the lodge partnered Crouse prepared the meal so all Waterbury with the Parrot Head Club of Connecticut brothers could break bread together. for Operation Write Home. The event On Thanksgiving Day, Brother Dominic commemorated Veterans Day. The brothers Basile and Past Master Stewart Crouse helped created cards for Veterans abroad to send feed those in need at First Congregational home for birthdays, celebrations and other Church in Waterbury. Both members sacrificed occasions. Nearly 200 cards were created. their time, and time away from their families Hours later, the lodge hall was transformed to help provide for those in need. into an arena for the Connecticut Paranormal On the cold, brisk morning of November Major Pasquale Famiglietti, left, acknowledges Research Society who presented their findings 25, WM Mark Orsini, his girlfriend Beth WM Mark Orsini after receiving a hero’s welcome about hauntings around the state and world. Lavallee and Bros. Dom Basile, Kevin Breton, at his surprise 90th birthday party. This was a fundraiser, and packed the hall to and Chris Martinelli celebrated a surprise 90th capacity with over 100 spectators who enjoyed birthday for Pasquale Famiglietti, a veteran of lodge and showed its members that fulfilling the presentation and the homemade treats. three wars. their duties as Masons means to not only be at On November 19, WM Mark Orsini, The event capped a busy month for the labor but to continue their charity.

Page 26 Connecticut Freemasons December 2012 (ME) Most Excellent Grand High Priest Connecticut York Rite Opportunities (MP) Most Puissant Grand Master Information to be included in York Rite Opportunities must be submitted by (RE) Right Eminent the 10th of the preceding month to the Grand Secretary/Recorder, Charles B. Grand Commander Fowler, 525 Stillwater, Windsor, CT 06095-3842 or [email protected]. (U) Uniform NOTE: All dates and visitations are subject to change without notice. (F) Formal (S) Semi-formal (C) Casual

Sunday, December 2, Palestine Commandery No. 6 and St. John's Commandery No. 11, North Windham, Christmas observance, 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 4, (ME) (U) Washington Commandery No. 1, East Hartford Tuesday, December 4 Harmony Council No. 8, New Haven, Select Master degree Saturday, December 8 (ME) (U) Trinity Commandery No. 3, Darien, 3:00 p.m. Christmas observance, dinner to follow Sunday, December 9 (ME) (U) Cyrene Commandery No. 8 and St. Elmo Commandery No. 9, Meriden, 5:00 p.m. Christmas observance, pot luck dinner to follow Tuesday, December 11 Franklin Chapter No. 2 and Harmony Council No. 8, New Haven, Christmas dinner Tuesday, December 11 (F) Hamilton Council No. 22, Meriden, Select Master degree Wednesday, December 12 (ME) (F) Pythagoras Chapter No. 17, East Hartford, Past Master's and Most Excellent Master's degree Thursday, December 13 (ME) (F) Rittenhouse Chapter No. 11, Darien, 50 year pins Friday, December 14 (U) New Haven Commandery No. 2, Christmastide service at Masonicare, Wallingford, 6:00 p.m. Sunday, December 16 (ME) (U) Hamilton Commandery No. 5, Stratford, Christmas observance, 3:00 p.m., dinner to follow Monday, December 17 (ME) Milford Chapter No. 49, Milford, annual carol sing, 6:15 p.m. dinner Tuesday, December 18 (ME) (U) Washington Commandery No. 1, East Hartford, 6:30 p.m. dinner, joint York Rite Christmas program 8:00 p.m. Thursday, December 20 Keystone Chapter No. 27, St John’s Day service, brunch, see below Friday, December 21 (ME) (U) New Haven Commandery No. 2, New Haven, Christmas observance, 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 25 Merry Christmas! Wednesday, December 26 (ME) (F) Pythagoras Chapter No. 17, East Hartford Monday, December 31 Happy New Year!

Coming Up: January 8, Franklin Chapter No. 2, New Haven, Mark Master Mason degree January 9, Pythagoras Chapter No. 17, East Hartford, Royal Arch Mason degree January 12, Grand Chapter Royal Arch officers meeting, East Hartford, 9:00 a.m. January 18, New Haven Commandery No. 2, New Haven, Order of Red Cross and Order of Malta January 22, St Elmo Commandery No. 9, Meriden, special, Order of Temple January 26, (tentative) Pythagoras Chapter No. 17, East Hartford, Table Chapter with Grand Chapter

From the Grand High Priest In the Blessed Book restored to us by our Grand Masters of the Veils, we find fulfillment of God’s promises throughout the Biblical record upon which the lessons of Masonry and our faith are based. Among those communicated by the Lord through the prophets is foretold the story of Christmas: “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive; and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” (Is 7:14) And not just His coming, but His life’s teachings that shape all mankind: “And in the day there shall be a root of Jesse which shall stand for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and His rest shall be glorious.” (Is 11:10) Therefore, as we gather once again to celebrate this Holy Season, let us be ever mindful of our love for one another, and pray for peace on His earth as foretold for His Glorious Kingdom, Eternal and Everlasting. To all of our Companions, their ladies and families, a most joyous and healthy of holiday seasons and happiest of New Year’s. – MEGHP William L. Miller and Lady Lisa

St. John the Evangelist Day Keystone Chapter No. 27 is sponsoring attendance at a St. John’s Day Service on December 30 at Holy Trinity Church, 200 Summer Street, Plainville, at 10:00 a.m. There will be a brunch following the service. This is the church of High Priest, Very Reverend Joseph Krusienski.

Halleck fundraiser for RARA Show your support for RARA with your very own attractive, re-usable grocery tote bag, in eye-catching red, now available from Halleck Chapter No. 44, for only $3.50 each. Proceeds to benefit hearing research at UCONN and Autism Speaks. Your brethren, family and friends will surely want one (or two or more) for their shopping needs! To place an order, contact Companion James Kleinkauf, 203-453-9402 or [email protected]. Checks payable to Halleck Chapter No. 44.

December 2012 Connecticut Freemasons Page 27 Craft at Labor… Entered Apprentice Degree Friday, December 14, Washington No. 70, Windsor, 6:30 p.m. Master Mason Degree dinner Friday, December 7, Ansantawae No. 89, Milford, 7:00 p.m. Saturday, December 15, Corinthian No. 63, North Haven, 1:00 dinner, SW Kevin Field in the East p.m., lunch after first section Tuesday, December 11, Shepherd - Salem No. 78, Naugatuck, 6:30 p.m. dinner Fellowcraft Degree Wednesday, December 19, Cosmopolitan No. 125, New Haven, Wednesday, December 12, Union No. 5, Stamford, 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. dinner dinner, joint degree with Acacia Lodge No. 85 Craft at Refreshment…

Saturday, December 1, Hiram No. 1, New Tuesday, December 4, Moosup No. 113, Saturday, December 8, Wyllys-St. John’s Haven, 6:00 p.m., Masonicare Winter Party Moosup, annual meeting No. 4, West Hartford, installation Saturday, December 1, Wyllys-St. John’s Tuesday, December 4, Unity No. 148, New Saturday, December 8, Union No. 5, No. 4, West Hartford, 5:30 p.m., holiday Britain, 6:30 p.m. dinner, annual meeting Stamford, 12:00 p.m. dinner, holiday party party and Shriner drive Wednesday, December 5, Union No. 5, Saturday, December 8, King Hiram No. Saturday, December 1, Village No. 29, Stamford, 6:30 p.m. chili cook-off 12, Shelton, 5:00 p.m. dinner, installation, Collinsville, 8:00 a.m., open house Wednesday, December 5, Frederick- donations for toys for kids program Saturday, December 1, Friendship Tuscan Franklin No. 14, Plainville, 7:00 p.m., Saturday, December 8, Federal No. 17, No. 145, Manchester, UConn/Cincinnati candidate instruction Watertown, 9:00 a.m., holiday party football Wednesday, December 5, Hiram No. 18, Saturday, December 8, Day Spring No. Sunday, December 2, Federal No. 17, Sandy Hook, annual meeting 30, Hamden, 1:00 p.m. dinner, installation, Watertown, bus trip to New York City Wednesday, December 5, Columbia No. magician and musical entertainment Sunday, December 2, Jeptha No. 95, 25, South Glastonbury, annual meeting Saturday, December 8, Meridian No. 77, Clinton, 2:00 p.m. , open house, Christmas Wednesday, December 5, Day Spring No. Meriden, 5:00 p.m., installation in Clinton 30, Hamden, annual meeting Saturday, December 8, Friendship Monday, December 3, St. John’s No. 2, Wednesday, December 5, Estuary No. 43, Tuscan No. 145, Manchester, 12:00 noon, Middletown, annual meeting Old Saybrook, annual meeting installation Monday, December 3, Compass No. 9, Wednesday, December 5, Widow’s Son No. Sunday, December 9, St. Peter’s No. 21, Wallingford, 6:30 p.m. dinner, annual 66, Branford, annual meeting New Milford, 2:00 p.m., installation meeting Wednesday, December 5, Cosmopolitan Sunday, December 9, Wolcott No. 60, Monday, December 3, Federal No. 17, No. 125, New Haven, annual meeting Stafford, 1:00 p.m., holiday party Watertown, annual meeting Thursday, December 6, St. John’s No. 6, Monday, December 3, Jerusalem No. 49, Norwalk, annual meeting Ridgefield, annual meeting Thursday, December 6, Trumbull No. Monday, December 3, Meridian No. 77, 22, New Haven, 6:30 p.m. dinner, annual Meriden, 6:30 p.m. dinner, annual meeting meeting Activities for Monday, December 3, Hartford Evergreen Thursday, December 6, Union No. 31, Lodge at Labor No. 88, South Windsor, annual meeting Niantic, 6:30 p.m. dinner, annual meeting and Lodge at Refreshment Monday, December 3, Solar No. 131, East Thursday, December 6, Somerset-St. James Hampton, 6:30 p.m. dinner, annual meeting No. 34, Preston, 9:00 a.m. Eighth District are taken from calendars Tuesday, December 4, America-St. John’s breakfast at Groton Townhouse Restaurant on lodge websites. No. 8, Stratford, annual meeting Thursday, December 6, Harmony No. Tuesday, December 4, King Hiram No. 12, 42, Waterbury, 6:30 p.m. dinner, annual Please visit the lodge Shelton, 6:30 p.m. dinner, annual meeting, meeting websites for updates donations for toys for kids program Thursday, December 6, Warren No. 51, Tuesday, December 4, Temple No. 16, Portland, annual meeting and more information. Cheshire, 7:00 p.m., school of instruction Thursday, December 6, Wolcott No. 60, Tuesday, December 4, St. Peter’s No. 21, Stafford, 6:30 p.m. dinner, annual meeting For a directory of all lodge New Milford, 6:30 p.m. dinner, annual Thursday, December 6, Washington No. websites visit meeting 70, Windsor, 8:00 a.m., poinsettia delivery Tuesday, December 4, Harmony No. 67, Thursday, December 6, Friendship Tuscan www.ctfreemasons.net New Canaan, annual meeting No. 145, Manchester, 6:30 p.m. dinner, Tuesday, December 4, Shepherd-Salem No. annual meeting 78, Naugatuck, annual meeting

Page 28 Connecticut Freemasons December 2012 Craft at Refreshment… Monday, December 10, St. John’s No. 2, Street Musical, all tickets taken Wednesday, December 19, Somerset-St. Middletown, lodge of instruction Saturday, December 15, Village No. 29, James No. 34, Preston, annual meeting Monday, December 10, Somerset-St. Collinsville, 3:00 p.m., holiday party Thursday, December 20, St. John’s No. 6, James No. 34, Preston, 6:30 p.m., Masonic Saturday, December 15, Harmony No. 42, Norwalk, installation education Waterbury, 1:00 p.m., installation Thursday, December 20, Trumbull No. 22, Monday, December 10, Washington No. 70, Saturday, December 15, Putnam No. New Haven, holiday sweater night Windsor, 7:00 p.m. dinner, annual meeting 46, South Woodstock, 10:00 a.m., annual Thursday, December 20, Union No. 31, Monday, December 10, Jeptha No. 95, meeting, oyster stew for lunch at noon, Niantic, 6:30 p.m. dinner, installation Clinton, annual meeting election, fumigation, installation Thursday, December 20, Warren No. 51, Monday, December 10, Anchor No. 112, Portland, step-up night East Hampton, annual meeting Saturday, December 15, Wolcott No. 60, Thursday, December 20, Valley No. 36, Tuesday, December 11, Frederick-Franklin Stafford, 1:00 p.m. dinner, installation Simsbury, 6:00 p.m. dinner, Hartford No. 14, Plainville, annual meeting Saturday, December 15, Manchester No. County Lodge of Actual Past Masters Tuesday, December 11, Temple No. 16, 73, Manchester, 2:00 p.m., installation Friday, December 21, Ansantawae No. 89, Cheshire, 7:00 p.m., school of instruction Saturday, December 15, Unity No. 148, Milford, 5:45 p.m., annual meeting Tuesday, December 11, Village No. 29, New Britain, 6:00 p.m., holiday party at Saturday, December 22, Friendship No. 33, Collinsville, 6:30 p.m. dinner, annual Whinstone Tavern, Stanley Golf Course Southington, 9:00 a.m., installation meeting Sunday, December 16, King Solomon’s No. Sunday, December 23, Friendship No. 33, Tuesday, December 11, Harmony No. 42, 7, Woodbury, 2:00 p.m. dinner, installation Southington, 7:30 a.m., pancake breakfast Waterbury, 6:00 p.m. dinner, holiday party Sunday, December 16, Washington No. 19, Wednesday, December 26, Union No. 5, Tuesday, December 11, Manchester No. 73, Monroe, 8:00 a.m. country breakfast Stamford, 6:30 p.m. dinner, Table Lodge, Manchester, annual meeting Sunday, December 16, Ansantawae No. 89, Ted Doolittle presents the EA Third Section Tuesday, December 11, Acacia No. 85, Milford, 5:00 p.m., holiday party Lecture. Greenwich, 6:30 p.m. dinner, annual Monday, December 17, Union No. 5, Wednesday, December 26, Cosmopolitan meeting Stamford, 7:30 p.m. dinner, lodge blitz: No. 125, New Haven, lodge fellowship night Tuesday, December 11, Brainard No. 102, Jerusalem Lodge No. 49 Thursday, December 27, Hiram No. 1, Niantic, 6:30 p.m. dinner, annual meeting Monday, December 17, Federal No. 17, New Haven, holiday party Tuesday, December 11, Corinthian No. Watertown, installation Friday, December 28, Hiram No. 1, New 104, Fairfield, annual meeting, awards night Monday, December 17, Friendship No. Haven, 6:30 p.m. dinner, Actual Past Masters Wednesday, December 12, Composite 33, Southington, 6:30 p.m. dinner, annual Association No. 28, Suffield, 12:30 p.m., dinner, annual meeting Friday, December 28, Wooster No. 10, meeting Monday, December 17, Valley No. 36, Colchester, 6:45 p.m. dinner, Masters Wednesday, December 12, Ark No. 39, Simsbury, installation meeting hosted by Wooster Lodge Danbury, annual meeting Monday, December 17, Jerusalem No. 49, Friday, December 28, Madison No. 87, Wednesday, December 12, Eastern Star No. Ridgefield, installation Madison, 6:30 p.m. dinner, Actual Past 44, North Windham, annual meeting Monday, December 17, Oxoboxo No. 116, Master’s Degree Wednesday, December 12, Ivanhoe No. Montville, 6:30 p.m. dinner, annual meeting Saturday, December 29, Village No. 29, 107, Darien, 7:00 p.m. dinner, annual Monday, December 17, Solar No. 131, East Collinsville, 2:00 p.m., installation meeting Hampton, 6:30 p.m., holiday party Sunday, December 30, Cosmopolitan No. Wednesday, December 12, Hospitality No. Tuesday, December 18, King Hiram No. 125, New Haven, 2:30 p.m., Downtown 128, Wethersfield, annual meeting 12, Shelton, 6:30 p.m. dinner, Holy Saints Evening Soup Kitchen Wednesday, December 12, Ashlar-Aspetuck John Monday, December 31, Union No. 5, No. 142, Easton, 6:30 p.m. dinner, Hiram’s Tuesday, December 18, Temple No. 16, Stamford, 1:00 p.m., Master’s official close Café: pot luck dinner, annual meeting Cheshire, 7:00 p.m., school of instruction Thursday, December 13, Hiram No. 1, Tuesday, December 18, St. Peter’s No. 21, New Haven, 6:30 p.m. dinner, annual New Milford, 6:00 p.m., holiday party meeting Tuesday, December 18, Harmony No. 67, Thursday, December 13, Washington No. New Canaan, 7:00 pm. dinner, installation 70, Windsor, 6:30 p.m. dinner, Past Master Wednesday, December 19, Union No. 5, degree Stamford, 6:30 p.m. dinner, DeMolay state Friday, December 14, Wooster No. 10, chapter conducting the second DeMolay Happy Colchester, 6:30 p.m. dinner, holiday party Degree Friday, December 14, Federal No. 17, Wednesday, December 19, Hiram No. 18, Watertown, Past Master degree Sandy Hook, annual meeting Friday, December 14, Corner Stone- Wednesday, December 19, Columbia No. Holidays! Quinebaug No. 122, Thompson, annual 25, South Glastonbury, 6:30 p.m. dinner, meeting installation Saturday, December 15, Union No. 5, Wednesday, December 19, Day Spring No. Stamford, Theater Night: A Merry Mulberry 30, Hamden, annual meeting

December 2012 Connecticut Freemasons Page 29 thank you for contributing Masonic Family GRAND BOOSTERS more than $25 Adrian E. Offinger Donald H. Hasbrouck James C. Hutchinson, Jr. Paul K. Edman boosters Alan Hogan Donald Maehlenbrock James J. Bevan Paul J. Garavel Alvin J. MacBrien Donald G. Steiner, Sr. James H. Landry Peter V. Aliferis Anderson H. Ziedler, Jr. Dwight C. Mertens Adelphi-Momauguin No. 63...... North Haven James T. McWain Randall W. Root America-St. John’s No. 8...... Stratford Andrew G. Weinmann, II Edward J. DeAngelis James A. Nankin Andrew J. Larsen Edward F. Miller Jerry G. Olson Richard A. Arndt Anchor No. 112...... East Hampton Anthony F. Keegan Edwin B. Allen John R. Boyce Richard G. Sagan Annawon No. 115...... West Haven Arthur J. McKinney Elizabeth A. Hull John E. Coppa Robert W. Adams Ark No. 39...... Danbury Arthur R. Tinsz Frank A. Forzano John P. Manley Robert W. Furce Aubrey V. Fisher Frank H. Lesco John H. Spencer Robert C. MacLellan Ashlar No. 332...... Wallingford Benjamin A. Isaacson Gail N. Smith John B. Sterry Robert R. Nattress Carl P. Larson Ashlar-Aspetuck No. 142...... Easton George R. Churchill John A. Sturges, Jr. Scott A. Mantz Carleton L. Quint George M. Leaman Keith Franson Brainard No.102...... Niantic Charles B. Clark George D. Moore Kurt A. Maehlenbrock Sharon N. Peterson Center No. 97...... Meriden Charles R. Nielsen George A. Stickels Lawrence S. Elsner Stanley C. Buz, Sr. Coastal No. 57...... Stonington Christiana C. Dean Gerald F. Thompson Leonard W. Finegold Steven C. Aldi Cleveland P. Huggins III Grant L. Brown Lewis W. Pennell Steven J. Gorman Columbia No. 25...... South Glastonbury Clifford T. Kearney Harmon L. Andrews In Memory of: Thomas E. Coons Compass No. 9...... Wallingford Clyde D. Eidson Harold S. Curtis George Seeley Thomas H. Wells Dagobert F. Pfeiffer Composite No. 28...... Suffield Helen B. Green Lowell H. Cantor Warren W. Thompson David Cheney Hiram W. Peck, Jr. Lyman J. McWain Connecticut Masonic Scouters...... David C. Toomey, Jr. Howard E. Brown Martin C. Evensen William A. Brinley, Jr. Connecticut York Rite College...... David B. Urban Howard W. Orr, Jr. Melvin J. Levy William J. Charamut William F. Knipple Corinthian No. 103...... North Haven Donald W. Dean Howard J. Swanson Michael G. Fitting Donald C. Goss I. William Clark Michael S. Shear William H. Strong Cosmopolitan No. 125...... New Haven Daytime No. 144...... Stratford

Estuary No. 43...... Old Saybrook thank you for Evening Star No. 101...... Unionville contributing $25 Federal No. 17...... Watertown INDIVIDUAL BOOSTERS Frederick-Franklin No. 14...... Plainville Alan N. Knofla Fridolf J. Rusgaitis Lemuel G. Johnson, Jr. Robert MacQuarrie Friendship Tuscan No. 145...... Manchester Allen L. Beavers, Jr. Gail C. Evarts Leon F. Smith, Jr. Robert J. Masslon Allen Bulmer Gary W. Arseneau Lester A. Culver, Jr. Robert T. Miller Grand Chapter Royal Arch Masons...... Arthur H. Carlstrom Gary E. Cohen Lewis P. Bither Grand Commandery Knights Templar...... Arthur W. Lovell, Jr. Gary A. Littlefield Louis O. House IV Robert F. Polito, Jr. Granite No. 119...... Haddam Arthur M. Pugh, Sr. George W. Adams Louis Vander Eyk Robert A. Simon Roger Jackson Harmony No. 42...... Waterbury Bernard H. Allen George M. Krause Maitland E. Hudson Betty Gaudenzi George V. Schmelzer Mark E. Furber Roger Knickerbocker Harmony No. 67...... New Canaan Bill Hull George E. Swick Mario L. Accornero Roger N. Theriault Hartford Evergreen No. 88...... South Windsor Brian V. Adams George M. Touma Martin L. Rudnick Bruce Chamberlain Gilbert H. Ford Michael A. Candela Roy L. Smith Hejaz Grotto...... New Haven C. E. Libby Gustaf R. Bodin Michael S. Shear Rudolph J. Arseneau Hiram No. 18...... Sandy Hook Carl H. Brown Harmon E. Corey Miles E. Cochran, Jr. Russell J. Cashman Ionic No. 110...... North Windham Carl E. Loether Herbert W. Hope, Jr. Myron E. Yudkin Samuel B. Walker Carl J. Mossberg Howard B. Schiller Nancy H. Barr Sandra D. Knotts Ivanhoe No. 107...... Darien Charles B. Fowler, Jr. In Memory of: Newton Holbrook Jeptha No. 95...... Clinton Charles P. Keating Robert W. Flint Nicola M. Iannone Sandra E. Osten Scott T. Sherrick Jerusalem No. 49...... Ridgefield Charles C. Maxson William Wadsworth Nils A. Holmquist Charles B. Ricker Ivan N. Finkle Nils S. Larson Scott Swick King Solomon’s No. 7...... Woodbury Charles A. Rogers Jack H. Stevens Norman E. Kloter Simon R. LaPlace Madison No. 87...... Madison Clyde W. Kayser II James W. Currier Olive A. Bachelder Sokol Selimaj Cranston A. Briggs Orin H. Stark James L. Perkins Sprague Vigus Manchester No. 73...... Manchester Dale E. Sweet James F. Standish Paul F. Blake Masonic Club of New London...... Dana Jaeger Jesse L. Maghan Peter J. Hunt Stanley T. House Morning Star No. 47...... Seymour David M. Bowen John Bashar Peter H. Stevens Stanley S. Sheldon, Jr. David A. Gessert John Butterworth, Jr. Philip C. Newton Stephen Ames MP Grand Council R&SM ...... Donald Berry John R. Haigh Ralph K. Evans Orange No. 143...... Milford Stephen B. McPherson Donald DiNapoli John P. Lukens Raymond C. Burr Stephen M. Thal Donald L. Frolander John E. Pinkney Raymond H. Christopher Jr. Putnam No. 46...... South Woodstock Sven Svensen Pyramid Shriners Pipes and Drums ...... Donald N. Hentz John G. Radeach Raymond J. Dolyak Douglas T. Barrett John M. VanKirk Raymond P. Fricano Theodore R. Hespeler Seneca No. 55...... Torrington Edgar J. Wood Jonathon P. Canfield Raymond E. Moore Thomas M. Gutner Sequin-Level No. 140 ...... Newington Edna McCraw Joseph J. Howard Raymond A. Prunier Thomas Knowlton Edward Jevarjian Joseph P. Vollrath Rebecca H. Schoeck Timothy R. Armstrong Silas Deane No. 147...... Newington Edward M. Joynes Joyce L. Fenn Rev. Dr. Craig T. McClellan Somerset-St. James No. 34...... Preston Edward Paradise Judd S. Blaze Richard Beck Walter J. Hileman Sphinx Omar Shrine Club...... Newington Ellsworth E. Williams Kenneth W. Lewis Richard W. Bogart William E. Bell Eugene E. Lagasse Kenneth W. Marvin Richard R. Brabner William G. Buick St. Alban’s No. 38...... Guilford F. Matthew Heinrich, Jr. Kenneth Morrison Richard S. DiNardo William F. Clark St. Luke’s No. 48...... Kent Frank W. Bauer Kevin H. Matsil Richard R. Jones, Jr. William G. Demetriades St. Paul’s No. 11...... Litchfield Frank W. Carmon III Kevin McWain Robert B. Burden Frank J. Godwin, Jr. Larry S. Baker Robert A. Colbourn William H. Flagg Temple No. 65...... Westport Fred W. Nanamaker, Jr. Laurence W. Howe Robert W. Flavell William E. Lehr, Jr. Third Masonic District Past Masters...... Frederick H. Russell Lawrence H. Anvik Robert W. Harriman William Welsh, Jr. Travelers Woods of New England...... Union No. 5...... Stamford Union No. 40...... Danbury Connecticut Universal Fraternity No. 149...... Stratford Be a Uriel No. 24...... Merrow Valley No. 36...... Simsbury Valley of Hartford, AASR...... BOOSTER FREEMASONS Valley of New Haven, AASR...... o Masonic Family Booster o Individual Booster o Grand Booster Village No. 29...... Collinsville $60 listing for 11 issues $25 listing for 11 issues More than $25 Warren No. 51...... Portland Washington No. 19...... Monroe Name or Lodge______Washington No. 70...... Windsor Widow’s Son No. 66...... Branford Address______Wooster No. 10...... Colchester Wooster No. 79...... New Haven Town______Wyllys-St. John’s No. 4...... West Hartford State______Zip ______Those names in bold are new or renewing Make checks payable to: Grand Lodge Publications • PO Box 250 • Wallingford, CT 06492 Boosters. Thank you for your support. Page 30 Connecticut Freemasons December 2012 I Remember it Like it Was Just Last Week by Simon R. LaPlace in the lower hall and chatted with I remember it like it was just the others, I tended to my son. The last week. A warm June day, the front door of the lodge was open, sun just slipping into summer. My which made it easier for him to father had asked me to bring my play, going inside and out. Now, family and meet him at “lodge.” not too far down the sidewalk, He was excited about attaining don’t trip on the concrete steps, fifty years as a Mason, and this don’t hang on that railing, watch was supposed to be some kind out for that man walking up the of big thing he wanted to share path. with us. There’s always confusion as to I hardly knew where the when summer starts. Some say on “lodge” was, and I was surprised the solstice of June, others wait for to find it was that old, empty, and the Fourth of July, and still others Attending the fifty year pin presentation for my father were, from left, MW some said haunted, white stucco maintain Memorial Day. The Roland Gardner, Grand Master; the woman my father married after my building, that I pedaled extra fast secretary at my work even used mother died; my father, WB William B. LaPlace; my cousin who raised my past when I was a boy. to say it ended on July 4. But this father, WB Gilbert L. Mather; fifty year recipient Bro. Andy Anderson; his This day the building was open day was special, because my father wife, Edith; and then RW Samuel B. Walker, Grand Junior Deacon. and inviting. Cars were parked all wanted us there. over the yard and driveway. People, He was so excited that after fifty strangers, and they were somehow and character.” I wondered how mostly men, were arriving, usually years he wouldn’t have to pay dues proud. much longer my father would be by car, but some were walking. anymore. I knew he was pretty I remembered my uncle had able to stand. He seemed to be Although my family lived only a tight with a dollar. When I went been a Past Grand Master and using every ounce of strength to couple of blocks away, I drove my to work for him as a teenager and had died just four months earlier. get through this, but you could tell wife and seven year old son. My after working a year, getting better I had helped his widow with the he loved it. father had to drive, too, but more at the job, getting my license and obituary. She told me everything Then he was helped, with the because he was weak with the explaining how I was deserving he had belonged to as I wrote them other fellow, to the front of the room cancer he refused to acknowledge of a pay increase, he agreed. He down. She remembered all the and presented their certificates and was beating him. said I had certainly proved myself initials and titles. I didn’t know you pins. And that dues card. There This was his big day, and he over the past year, I had become could belong to so many different were few times I ever saw him so had had a lot of big days. My father important to the business, and he groups, or why you would want to. happy. What could it mean? Was was a joiner; Rotary, church, Elks, felt confident enough to count on My aunt told me the “lodge” it more than no more dues? Didn’t School Board, Board of Finance, me. He so inflated my ego that I had visited her and asked if she he know, down deep, that his you name it and he probably had couldn’t complain about the ten wanted to have a Masonic funeral. precarious health would take him joined it. I knew more about his cent raise he gave me. She said she had been told it was a away in 100 days, before another activities in those other groups So to him, I could see that particularly painful, and sorrowful dues bill could ever be sent? than I knew about the Masons. saving lodge dues could actually ceremony. She was a solid and I believe that was when the Not that it was secret, it was private. mean something. He would get proud woman who wanted to be mystery of Freemasonry was Just as the building might have something for nothing, and he stoic and keep her tears to herself, planted in me. Not when my been haunted, and something you knew a bargain when he saw it. so she declined the invitation. uncle was a Grand Master, or the didn’t and couldn’t ask about, so He didn’t say he couldn’t afford For similar reasons, I, too, would questions of “lodge” night were left were the Masons. I never saw my to pay dues, or that the savings decline having a Masonic funeral unanswered. Not when I saw the father in a tuxedo, but I knew would affect his finances. No, he for my father. lapel pin he always wore, nor the when he wore the long, black, would get something for nothing. The lodge room was getting haunted building, or the strange heavy overcoat, it was “lodge” We finally were invited upstairs hot and stuffy. Much longer and initials in my uncle’s obituary. night. I wouldn’t ask what “lodge” into the lodge room. There were it would get pretty uncomfortable. That’s why the fifty year pin was, and I certainly wouldn’t ask no special chairs set up for us. This My son wouldn’t be able to stand and the ceremony that celebrates my mother. She only ever told us was not a cozy room, but one with much of this. I remember father those years of service means so what she wanted us to know, not a high ceiling, important looking and another fellow being escorted much to me. Every brother who what we might have wanted to ask chairs around, and the peanut to the “altar” in the center of the is presented with the pin and about. gallery for us guests. My father was room. certificate, and the card, has that This June day was warm, and wearing a white piece of cloth at “We now behold you before same smile my father had that as the men walked up the stairs, his waist, in fact, everyone was. I the altar of Freemasonry, that warm June day. And as brothers get women, children and family remembered back to a funeral I altar you were taught to approach closer and closer to fifty years, I’m stayed back downstairs. Something went to, for who I later learned fifty years ago, there to take an rooting that they’ll make it, too. was going on upstairs. I figured was the son of a Past Grand Master. obligation designed to make a Proud to wear an apron in front maybe they were arranging the Those men had worn similar lasting impression on your mind, of strangers. Proud to have stuck furniture, setting up more chairs apparel. They weren’t embarrassed and to serve as an uplifting and it out for fifty years. Proud to be a for us guests. While my wife sat to be dressed that way in front of ennobling influence on your life Freemason. December 2012 Connecticut Freemasons Page 31 B est wishes for a joyful holiday season from the Masonicare family.

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The Masonicare HelpLine • Offer suggestions that can help a family find a is free and confidential. solution when they’re worried about the safety of Our knowledgeable loved one living alone representatives, available by • Explore the various retirement living options phone, respond to inquiries available for seniors in Connecticut regarding senior healthcare and retirement living and The Masonicare HelpLine is a vital resource that provides offer assistance in accessing and using services, agencies guidance and support to individuals, families and caregivers and programs in Connecticut that are important but can who need direction and don’t know where to turn for help. be confusing to seniors. We also help seniors and families explore Masonicare’s wide-ranging continuum of care. Remember — The Masonicare HelpLine is here for you. For example, we might: • Refer callers to an appropriate assessment program when they express concern that a loved one’s memory loss has become an issue www.masonicare.org

Page 32 Connecticut Freemasons December 2012