T h e V o i c e o f K a n s a s M a s o n r y
Volume 52 Issue 4 The Kansas Mason Winter 2014 A Publication of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas Investing in Growth of the Brotherhood delivering m FROM THEthe GRAND EAST essage Michael A. Halleran, Grand Master of Masons 2014-2015
Summer allows us to review and reflect In July I was invited to attend the Rocky ing visits to Kansas upon the designs laid upon the trestle-board. Mountain Masonic Conference in Reno, by some of the As this edition of the Kansas Mason goes Nevada as the keynote speaker. I spoke to the participants. Two to press, lodges throughout the state have assembled delegates from ten states about attendees at that conference will be visiting returned to their labors and once again the the changes we have undertaken in Kansas us soon: the Grand Master of New Mexico work of the Craft begins in earnest. But just Masonry. I highlighted the continuity that has plans to attend our Leadership Academy, and as many lodges remain at labor over the been a part of the Grand Lodge officer line the Grand Master of Utah plans to join us summer due to the amount of work in wait- since 2010 – something that many jurisdictions at our Annual Communication. To me, this ing. the Grand Lodge and your grand officers do not practice – as well as our strategic plan, indicates that we are leading by example, and have been equally engaged over the summer and the progress we have made in overhaul- I have high hopes that our progress and posi- months with more activity on the horizon in ing Grand Lodge programs in response to our tive energy will continue. the autumn. Since last I wrote to you, I have member’s needs and desires. The Grand Lodge officers have been been to many lodges throughout the state, The response was overwhelmingly posi- equally busy. In August a delegation of our conducting surprise visits when my schedule tive, with many jurisdictions requesting more officers attended the Midwest Conference of has allowed it, and presiding at emblem pre- information about our programs and direc- Grand Lodges in Madison, Wisconsin. Led by sentations, with many distinguished and long- tion. Although that may have just been polite Deputy Grand Master Daren Kellerman, and serving brethren. A couple of other highlights conversation following the presentation, I including Grand Secretary Tracy Bloom, Area of the busy summer include two conferences think the real proof that we are going in the Deputy Grand Master Tony Borum, Grand that enabled us to showcase Kansas Masonry. right direction can be seen by the upcom- Sword Bearer Dale Morrow, and Assistant
2 THE KANSAS MASON Kansas Masonic Foundation, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, Kansas 66614 Grand Tyler Perry Cross, the Kansas delega- Sometimes in life, we are tempted to hide tion wowed the conference, presenting the same program I presented in Reno, and get- our light under a bushel basket, but Masonically ting the same positive response. we are taught to spread light, not hide it. At the beginning of the year, we told you that we believed Kansas was leading the way nounce that work began this the summer on predict this new membership development in Masonry in North America, and the re- a replacement. Our new Membership Devel- program will be another Kansas product that sponse that we received from each of these opment Program is in production now, and I other Grand jurisdictions will want to see. conferences confirmed our belief that we am very excited about it. With the assistance And we’ll be happy to show it to them. are indeed re-energizing and improving the of Grand Secretary Tracy Bloom, Executive Before closing, I must mention two up- Masonic experience for our members. Every Director of the Kansas Masonic Foundation coming events to keep in mind and prepare chance we get, your Grand Lodge Officers Bob Shively, and Assistant Grand Tyler Perry for; the Leadership Academy on November are eager to lay out our strategic plan to our Cross, we are in the final draft stages now. 1 and the District Schools of Instruction that members, lodges, and even to other grand When complete, this tool will enable lodges will be held as scheduled at a lodge near you. jurisdictions, to show what can be accom- to educate the public and potential members We find our lodges that attend and partici- plished by planning, goal-setting and concert- about our Order, show lodges how to host pate in these events come away invigorated ed action. But you needn’t take my word for a successful event that creates a powerful and “on fire” about Masonry. Please make it a it. You can see your Grand Lodge officers for first impression, and help identify potential point to attend. yourself by attending the next Area meet- members who are likely to be a good fit in Until then, Brethren, I bring you greetings ing. Check the Grand Lodge calendar online Blue Lodge. Underscoring our new commit- from the Grand East and I look forward to to find one near you. I promise you it will ment to quality men over quantity of men, I meeting you on the level. be time well spent, and I have no doubt that when you leave, you will be fired up about Masonry in Kansas. ansas M Sometimes in life, we are tempted to hide K a nd so our light under a bushel basket, but Masoni- a ni cally we are taught to spread light, not hide s c sa F it. This has been the motivation for Grand n o Lodge officers and the Grand Master to a u K n share our experience and accomplishments d with other jurisdictions. For just as we put f a o our good ideas out there, we also receive t
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On other fronts, your Grand Lodge is a C
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WINTER 2014 3 GRAND SECRETARY by M.W. Tracy L. Bloom, PGM, Grand Secretary The Importance of Paying Office, and just let us know please! Your Lodge Dues In a Timely Manner While we are talk- As we head into the dues billing months, I’d are past due, because those require multiple ing about the possibil- like to mention a few things as reminders for mailings and perhaps even a few phone calls. ity of suspension of all members. This is a very important time Unfortunately, each year, there are as many members for non-payment of dues, I’d like to and an essential function of your Lodge; it’s Masons suspended for non-payment of dues touch on dual memberships (a member of a when your Lodge collects the funds neces- as there are losses to deaths. The latter we Lodge in this jurisdiction, and also another ju- sary to run the operations for the coming can’t do much about, but the former we risdiction) and plural memberships (a mem- year, and is counting on you, as a member, to can. I am encouraging your Lodge Secretary ber of more than one Kansas Lodge). If you to push hard this year to educate members pay your dues in a timely manner. become suspended for any reason, including Lodge dues are payable in advance; in about the importance of the timely payment non-payment of dues, you will be suspended other words, your Lodge dues for 2015 are of dues, and to not put it off. in the other Lodge as well, no matter which payable to your Lodge by December 31, Many times we lose track of members Lodge you first become suspended in. (By- 2014. I would hope that none of you would because of address changes or moves. In Law 4-401A, 4-401D) When you take on the wait that long to pay your Lodge dues, unless today’s society, and the ease in which we responsibility of membership in more than necessity dictates, and in which case, it would communicate you wouldn’t think we’d lose one Lodge, you must maintain your dues be considerate of you to let your Master track of anyone, but believe me, it’s a chal- payments in all of them. If you no longer care or Secretary know that you might need a lenge. When we send out the Kansas Mason, to be a member of one of the Lodges, notify little extra time to make that payment. Your we have the entire mailing list checked the secretary you’d like to dimit. Don’t as- Lodge is counting on your timely payment to against a database that alerts us to changes of sume that not paying your dues will remove effectively operate and pay the necessary bills addresses, otherwise we’d have no idea that you from that Lodge properly, it won’t. As a to keep the doors open, so your members some of you have moved, and still we’ll have matter of fact, it will remove you from both can continue to meet as Brothers and share between two to three hundred magazines Lodges as a suspended member. in that all valuable Masonic experience. returned, unable to deliver or forward. We Also, most Lodge Secretaries only send I urge you; as soon as you receive your hate to lose anyone as a member of our notice of dues take care of it as quickly as fraternity, but more especially someone out the new dues cards after payment is possible. I know your Secretary and Lodge who we lose track of for various reasons. So received. So, if you have not paid your dues brothers will appreciate it. Each year, Lodge please, if you move, let your Lodge Secretary by December 31, of each calendar year, your Secretaries spend a lot of time trying to know. Send him an email, send him a text, call Lodge membership is in jeopardy of suspen- collect dues, and more especially those that him, send him a letter, call the Grand Lodge sion. It is easy to tell if you are current or not, just look at your dues card; LODGE DUES ARE on it it will say (your name) is PAYABLE IN ADVANCE, a member in good standing IN OTHER WORDS, until December 31, (year). If the year indicated is not at YOUR LODGE DUES least the current year, your FOR 2015 ARE membership is not in good PAYABLE TO YOUR standing. Should the Master of your Lodge direct the Tyler LODGE BY DECEMBER 31, 2014. continued on page 7
4 THE KANSAS MASON INSIDE THIS ISSUE
FEATURED ARTICLES FROM THE GRAND EAST 2 Delivering The Message
GRAND LODGE 13 Lodge Treasurers – Let’s Get Organized! 17 Grand Master’s C2A Class Sets a High Standard 18 Robert L. Tomlinson, Jr., PGM Resigns 19 New District School Format Crosses Kansas
FEATURE ARTICLE 8 Investing in Growth of the Brotherhood 20 From Whence We Came...
DEPARTMENTS 4 GRAND SECRETARY 35 LODGE OF RESEARCH The Importance of Paying Examining the Working Tools Your Lodge Dues In a Timely Manner 39 HOME WARMINGS 6 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Celebrating Our Accomplishments Along the Way 22 FROM THE ARCHIVES Kansas Department of Commerce Kansas Masonic Foundation Takes TAX CREDIT Program First Step In Preserving Kansas Masonic History Kansas Masonic Home Award Winners!
23 MEMBER INTERVIEW 42 BOOK REVIEW Rob McClarty The Bridge Builder’s Guide
24 AROUND THE WORLD 43 OUT AND ABOUT
Midwest Conference of Grand Lodges 48 EVENTS CALENDAR Far Exceeds Expectations Fraternal Secrets 49 ASKED AND ANSWERED 26 MAKING A DIFFERENCE KMF Band Camp Roars On Towards 40 Planing Your Estate Now Makes Sense Annual Freemason’s Auctions Add New Gems To Annual Communication's Crown A Great New Way To Give Kansas Mason Raises $8,500+ for Kansas Masonic Foundation It’s Always Auction Time At The KMF!
WINTER 2014 5 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR www.kansasmason.org The Kansas Mason I read with interest the article last issue Marching Band Camp, which will take place Established 1963 concerning Band Camp and the surprisingly at Fort Hays State University in Hays, Kansas, The Kansas Mason is the official publication positive experience the high school students during the last week of July, 2015. of the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free & involved get out of that time-honored event. Accepted Masons of Kansas, formally organized March 17, 1856. Our Lodge has sponsored some students in the I recently had the opportunity to attend one The Kansas Mason is published quarterly past but has not done so now for some time. Is of the Kansas Masonic Foundation’s Statewide (2/1; 5/1; 8/1; 11/1) at the direction of the this something we should still be doing? Is there Seminars, and the presentation could aptly be Council of Administration from the offices of: a real need for more sponsors? compared to finding a Masonic gold mine— The Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas and not just where the raising of funds is con- 320 SW 8th Avenue n a word, yes! This year’s Band Camp, which cerned. It is amazing that more Lodges did not Topeka, Kansas, 66603-3912 Imarked its 31st year, was a tremendous send representatives to learn more about Fun- The opinions expressed herein do not success, with 178 high school students playing draising and Public Relations for their Lodges. necessarily reflect those of the Grand in the Band. This is probably one of the best Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas, its officers The overview of KMF programs and how they Kansas Masonic Lodge community activities, or employees. can be utilized by our Lodges was another very when it comes to creating a lot of visibility informative aspect of those seminars. Thank SUBMIT ARTICLES: and garnering a lot of fresh public support. you very much for putting those on in our area! by email to [email protected] As a matter of fact, the Band Camp press Can you tell that I’m happy to have gone? or mail to KMF Editorial releases developed and broadcast this year 2909 SW Maupin Lane he ten seminars conducted across the Topeka, KS, 66614 by the Kansas Masonic Foundation, along with TState starting in mid-June received great All submissions may be in electronic the ones we sent to students to put in their reviews from all who were there, and we format or hard copy and become the local newspapers, were more widely pub- share your amazement that they weren’t bet- property of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. lished than ever before—resulting in great PR ter attended. But for those who missed that of Kansas. for the Lodges and Kansas Masons. So there unique and valuable opportunity, KMF plans Photos may be submitted through Flickr at has really never been a better time to fully to continue the education process in the www.flickr.com/groups/kansasmason/ support Band Camp than there is right now. important areas in which Lodges are most in No compensation is allowed or intended This year, we had 133 Kansas Masonic Lodges need of further education and resources. A for any articles, photographs, or other Seminar will be presented during the Leader- material submitted or published. sponsor one or more students to Band ship Academy, for instance, and another Camp. But we could have easily handled al- may possibly be offered during the Annual NOTE: Permission to reprint material most 50 more students this year, if the Lodge appearing in The Kansas Mason will be Communications in March, should there be granted upon written request to the Grand sponsorship had been there. So to once again sufficient interest and room available on the Secretary from recognized Master Masons. directly answer your questions in a single premises. And in all likelihood, KMF personnel Other written requests will be considered by the Council of Administration. When word: yes. We could definitely have used your will go on to develop presentations on other reprinted, articles should note “Reprinted Lodge’s support this year and will continue topics, continuing this type of education on with permission of the Grand Lodge A.F. to need it in the future. So please plan now into the future. We were pleased to have had & A.M. (month and year)”.
to sponsor at least one band student for the the opportunity to present this seminar to ©2014 by the MW Grand Lodge A.F.& A.M. 32nd year of the Kansas Masonic All-State continued on page 7 of Kansas. All rights reserved. The Grand Lodge seal and the logos “Kansas Mason,” If you have any questions that you would like addressed on Masonry, Grand Lodge, and “Kansas Freemasons/On The Level” are Kansas Masonic Foundation, Kansas Masonic Home, this publication or its articles, please trademarks of the MW Grand Lodge A.F. & send your questions to [email protected] or mail to Kansas Masonic Foundation, A.M. of Kansas, and all rights are reserved. Attn. Kansas Mason Editor, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, Kansas 66614.
6 THE KANSAS MASON GRAND SECRETARY continued from page 4 or any other Lodge officer to not admit mem- brother will not or cannot remit his dues. ing their rosters and filling out and ordering bers who don’t have a current dues card, you A determination will then be made to see if their dues cards, preparing a list of members might be barred from attending Lodge meet- the reasons or inabilities to pay said dues falls in jeopardy of losing their membership and ings until your dues are paid in full. Likewise, within the realms of By-Law 4-307, Remis- coordinating that with the Master of the should you attend another organizations tyled sion of Dues. (Adopted 1991) Lodge, sending out dues reminder notices for meeting that predicates its membership upon If suspended for non-payment of dues, delinquent dues, preparing dues notices for you being a Mason, they should also refuse all is not lost! To reinstate your membership, the coming year, 2015, taking care of dues you entrance into the meeting without proof from January 1, until June 30, immediately payments, accounting for the money and turn- of a current Lodge dues card. following your suspension, you may simply ing it over to the Treasurer. On top of all that According to the by-laws of the Grand pay all indebtedness to your Lodge (including he will be preparing a final list for the Master Lodge of Kansas, the Master of your Lodge the current year’s dues). Beginning July 1, you to address delinquent members for the first also has some very important responsibilities will need to petition for restoration. And as or annual meeting in December, entering new concerning your membership. He is responsi- a note; all petitions are treated the same; it Lodge officers, and on top of all that, getting ble for making sure that there is a concerted must be filled out in full including references ready to complete the annual report. effort made to determine your disposition and recommenders, read and received at The secretaries, (despite the title of this prior to suspension. either a stated or special communication, article), of the several Lodges in Kansas are a 4-306A. Lodge Dues – Notice to Delin- investigating committee assigned and not less hard working bunch of Brothers dedicated to quent Members – Not later than the first than two weeks later it may be balloted upon your Lodge and the success of it. To my esti- Stated Communication in October, prior to at a stated meeting. Becoming suspended for mation, they are probably underappreciated, the Annual Communication of the Lodge, non-payment of dues runs the risk of having at times overworked, and would probably the Master will obtain from the Secretary, a to passing the ballot box once again. Granted, refuse offers of help, but would relish in the list of delinquent members. The Master will in most cases this is not an issue, but there fact that their Lodge brothers gave them a contact each delinquent member, preferably have been some where the petitioner did pat on the back and a big “At-a-Boy!” as ap- in person, and encourage him to remit his not pass the ballot box, and therefore was preciation for all they do. Please don’t make dues and further explain the adverse effects not restored. And by the way, you must them chase you down for something you that being suspended will cause. It shall restore your membership in the Lodge in should be taking the personal responsibility further be the inherent duty of the Master which you were suspended. for doing in the first place! Please pay your to inquire into the reason(s) the delinquent This is a busy time for secretaries, review- dues on time, Thanks!
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR continued from page 6 more than 100 Brothers across the State and 19-21, 2015—for free. Can that be true? Freemasonry and begin their journey for More hope that participation and interest in our es, it is. The Kansas Masonic Foundation, in Light sooner than their circumstances might future offerings will continue to grow. Ycooperation with the Grand Lodge, is now otherwise allow. We believe this program will providing the opportunity for all new Master further engage our new Brothers and broaden I heard that new Master Masons are receiving a Masons in Kansas to attend either the 4th An- their Masonic horizons by exposing them to complimentary voucher, allowing them to attend nual Leadership Academy or the 159th Annual the exciting possibilities Masonry has to offer in either the 4th Annual Leadership Academy on Communication completely free of charge. The ways that they may well not always be as quick Saturday, November 1st of this year, or the rationale behind this program is to help our to experience, if they simply stick to what hap- 159th Annual Communication—from March newly raised Brothers learn more about Kansas pens in their Home Lodge alone.
WINTER 2014 7 KANSAS MASONS RESEARCH PROJECT GRAND LODGE
Investing in Steady membership of the declines threaten the sustainability of fraternal organizations nationwide. The Kansas Masonic B Foundation,rotherhood in cooperation with the Grand Lodge of Kansas, undertook a comprehensive researchG project in the summerrowth of 2014 to address this trend and identify strategies to re-energize Kansas Masonic organizations.
By Robert A. Shively, CAE, Executive Director Kansas Masonic Foundation
To develop a blueprint that reverses The study was conducted by Q&A Research survey consisting of its Kansas panelists. membership declines and reinvigorates the with offices in Overland Park, Kansas, and the Eight hundred respondents completed sur-
Brotherhood, three types of information Bay area in California. veys which were then weighted for gender, were needed. This included 1) the public’s age, and income to approximate Kansas perceptions of Kansas Masons, 2) the priori- demographics. To qualify for the survey, GENERAL POPULATION SURVEY: ties, behavior and commitments of active respondents needed to be 21 years of age, PUBLIC PERCEPTIONS OF Masons, and 3) insights from dropped mem- a resident of Kansas, and heard of the Ma- KANSAS MASONS bers that relate motivations to both join and sons. Also they could not be the spouse or a Public opinion and awareness of Kansas leave the Order. Masons are key factors in determining the current member of the Masons, Shriners, or This information was captured in three environment for recruitment. In a broad The Order of the Eastern Star. The margin distinct surveys with different objectives and sense, Masons compete with many other or- of error for the General Population survey methodologies. Each survey provided unique ganizations for time and citizen commitment. was 3.5 percent.* perspectives. Combined, the three research These groups may be fraternal organizations studies reveal marketing and policy approach- (Elks and Lions) as well as other civic organi- Awareness of the Masonic Order es that can promote recruitment, retention, zations that provide community services. Respondents were asked to identify and and growth of Kansas Masonic organizations. Q&A Research conducted an online assess service organizations that actively
*Margins of error at the 95 percent confidence level were calculated for each of the three research studies. In the case of the General Population survey if all Kansans were asked to respond to the survey, the results for any one question might differ as much as 3.5 percent from the original survey results.
8 THE KANSAS MASON Kansas Masonic Foundation, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, Kansas 66614 TOTAL AWARENESS FAMILIARITY WITH OF ORGANIZATION ORGANIZATION (4 OR 5 RATING)
Shriners 93%* (n=781) 18% but having no strong opinions. Lions Club 87% (n=741) 14% Positive impressions of the Kansas Ma- Rotary Club 86%* (n=736) 11% sons, cited by 33% of the respondents, were Masons 78%* (n=800) 11% linked to high regard for the organization’s Elks 74%* (n=654) 6% charitable work and awareness of a friend or Optimist Club 71%* (n=536) 7% family member who belonged to the Masons. The Order of the Eastern Star 38%* (n=297) 15% The solid reputation of the organization also None of these 3%* N/A was a factor leading to a positive impression. contributed to Kansans. This question used awareness of other service groups can be Only 11 percent of the sample offered a an “unaided” format. In other words, re- partially explained. These groups promote negative impression. This attitude was attrib- spondents were asked to identify groups off themselves through national commercials uted to a perception about secrecy and that the top of their heads with no written listing and workplace presence (Red Cross and Masonic beliefs, ideals, and cultist image were of organizations. The top three organiza- United Way) or their physical visibility such incompatible with the respondent’s ideals. tions named were American Red Cross as Salvation Army bell ringers during the Do the combined positive and neutral (15%), United Way (12%) and Salvation Christmas season. perceptions of Masons translate to recruit- Army (12%). Three percent of respondents The fact that Masons have a lower aware- ment opportunities? Fourteen percent of identified Masons. ness ranking than Shriners may be attrib- male respondents would consider becoming In the follow-up question respondents uted to that organization’s sponsorship of a a member and 32 percent replied that they were given a list of organizations and asked post-season college football game and their were unsure. how familiar they were with the groups. high visibility in parades. The high Fifty-six percent of respondents were Panelists rated their awareness on a numeric familiarity rating of the Masons scale with “1” representing not too familiar approximated and sometimes and “5” indicating very familiar. exceeded the ranking of well- As the chart above indicates, 11 percent established service organizations. had a high familiarity with Masons (4 or 5 score) trailing the Shriners, and Lions, and Perception of Kansas Masons tied with the Rotary Club. Interestingly, When asked for their impression many respondents familiar with the Shriners of the Masons as a service organi- were not aware that Shriners membership zation, 55 percent of respondents was only available to Masons. had neither a positive nor negative Is the public awareness level of the impression. A follow-up question Masons disappointing? Certainly there indicated that this neutral impres- is a correlation between low organiza- sion was related to not knowing tional awareness and significant declines in much about the organization membership. However, the high unaided rather than possessing awareness,
FALL 2014 9 KANSAS MASONS RESEARCH PROJECT GRAND LODGE
most likely to indicate that the Masons "need policy preferences of Kansas Masons, a sur- of their Masonic membership. to educate the public on their purpose." vey was mailed to 3,311 members. From that The issue of declining membership as Respondents most associated the words mailing, 426 surveys were returned, result- a major problem had a broad consensus "brotherhood", "trust" and "integrity" with the ing in a response rate of 13 percent. The with 93 percent of engaged leaders and 89 organization. completed surveys provide a margin of error percent of other members sharing this per- To be eligible to complete the survey, of plus or minus 6.9 percent. ception. In open-ended questions, members participants must have at least heard of the The 426 responses were segmented were asked for concerns about their Lodge Masons. Even with 231 Lodges throughout by “engaged leaders”. This refers to those and the Grand Lodge of Kansas. Declining Kansas, 62 percent of respondents were Masons who had been in either a Grand membership and lack of new members were not sure if there was a Masonic Lodge in Lodge leadership position or attended a frequent comments in both instances. their community. Two-thirds (66 percent) of Grand Lodge event (Annual Communications Both engaged members and other mem- respondents were not able to assess whether or Leadership Academy) within last 3 years. bers were highly supportive of Kansas Ma- The remaining respondents are referred to Masons contributed more to their commu- sons offering more family activities. Additional as “other members.” nity compared to other organizations such as ideas for increasing membership were not Rotary, Elks, Lions, and Optimists. lacking. Frequent responses in open-ended Profile and Perceptions of Sixty percent of the panel did not know questions included: anyone who is, or used to be a Mason. Active Kansas Masons • Increase visibility by participating Twenty-four (24) percent of respondents Most Masons were preceded in the Order in the community indicated that a friend/neighbor is or was a by one or more family members. Eighty-one • Greater advertising and publicity • Increase appeal to younger men Mason while 19 percent indicated a family percent of engaged leaders indicated that • Sponsor youth activities and sports member affiliation with a Mason. The most a family member had been a Mason at one • Embrace the social media often mentioned relative who had a Masonic time compared to 76 percent of other mem- • Educate people more about the membership was “grandfather.” bers that had a family link. A large majority Masons and provide tools for members of Masons (98 percent engaged leaders and to communicate 90 percent other members) indicated they • Be less restrictive and adapt to ACTIVE MEMBER SURVEY perceived themselves as better men because modern times Information from the General Population survey can identify the most effective ways to ENGAGED OTHER LEADERS MEMBERS market the Kansas Masons based on residents’ Have been a top-line signer for a new member 43% 8% perceptions, leveraging positive impressions, Attend Masonic Lodge events 10 or more times annually 86 21 and countering misconceptions held by some Find their membership fulfilling 95 72 in the population. But the precise direction Belong to only one Lodge in Kansas 70 90 of future strategies and actions will be gener- Belong to two Lodges in Kansas 26 7 ated from the 231 Lodges in Kansas. The Grand Lodge represents the Craft in Kansas well 82 70 To evaluate the passions, priorities, and
10 THE KANSAS MASON More effective recruitment by active being a Mason? The most frequent consider- Masons. “Financial issues” also was a highly members was also prominently mentioned. ations were identical between engaged and ranked concern. How aggressive is the Brotherhood in pro- other members. The first of these unaided Concerns about the Grand Lodge of Kan- moting the Order to non-Masons friends? responses was “fellowship/brotherhood and sas also elicited comments similar to those In the past two years, engaged leaders had fraternity”, which was mentioned nearly identified with their own Lodge. “Disconnect discussed their membership in Freemasonry twice as often as the second highest, “moral between the Grand Lodge of Kansas and with the intent of interesting non-members principles, philosophy, and values.” local Lodges” was also a frequent comment to join an average of 10 times. For other These membership aspects were fol- followed by “financial issues.” members the average was 3.3. lowed by “social interaction and willingness A follow-up question asked respondents It should be no surprise that gaps exist to help brothers” and “charitable work/ to suggest how the Grand Lodge could between leaders and rank-and-file members community service.” Other considerations improve their representation of the Craft in areas of involvement, policies, and per- included “being around like-minded people,” in Kansas. The two most popular responses ceived value of the organization. But when and “rituals/degree work.” were “increase familiarity and listen more to this gap is substantial, it may indicate an un- Active Masons also had the opportunity local Lodges,” and “promote greater visibility shared vision of the Masonic mission among to provide open-ended feedback regarding for local programs and charitable work.” the membership. The chart below illustrates their Lodge. Membership concerns men- where major differences exist between tioned most were “declining membership and DROPPED MEMBER SURVEYS engaged leaders and other members. lack of new/younger members” followed by Members who leave an organization are What did respondents value most about “apathy and low participation” of their fellow often an excellent source to pinpoint issues that discourage continued affiliation. Surveys were mailed to 1,802 former Masons who al- lowed their Masonic affiliation to lapse within the past five years. Response rates for dropped member surveys are notoriously low because the sample includes those who have no inter- est in further contact with the organization. The return rate for this survey was only six percent, totaling 108 surveys. The margin of error was plus or minus 9.8 percent. In key areas, dropped member responses are close to active member feedback. This includes the average member profile, perspectives about membership values, top
WINTER 2014 11 KANSAS MASONS RESEARCH PROJECT GRAND LODGE
concerns about their local Lodge and the mitment to Masonry is not an impulse deci- family member, friend, or neighbor who was Kansas Grand Lodge, and ways to remedy sion. In a society that honors transparency a Mason. More than 75 percent of Masons problems. Ironically, the attendance at more than privacy, the degree of secrecy indicated that they had a family member who Lodge meetings was substantially higher required of Masons becomes suspect. was also a Mason. So perhaps interest in for dropped members than active “other Masons is generated more by the character members.” Importance of Family Traditions of Masonic friends rather than the mission Thirty-nine percent of dropped mem- as a Growth Strategy or activities of the Order. bers indicated that would be willing to Nearly all civic and fraternal organizations rejoin the Order within two years if they experienced membership declines in the Greater Visibility within the Community had the opportunity. The top reasons given past 30 or 40 years. What makes Masons Both Masons and the general public indicated for not renewing membership was that unique is that membership within the that greater visibility of the organization was the member had moved away, could no Order has been driven by family relations. needed. This probably doesn’t require Kansas longer afford dues, and poor communica- Visibility within the community is important Masons to get involved in different services or for membership growth. But it cannot be a tions from the local Lodge. A few members modify rituals, just to get greater recognition substitute for intergenerational family ties. voiced concern about “having to start over from activities in which they are already en- Respondents to the General Member- again,” if they joined a new Lodge. gaged. More familiarity with Masonic activities, ship Survey who indicated a family mem- tradition, and beliefs should aid recruitment ber was a Mason identified a grandfather and diminish the misinformation about the THE WAY FORWARD more often than a parent or uncle com- Order. What information gathered from the three bined. This skipped generation has critical studies can be translated to action plans implications for the family continuity that Stronger Member Development that grow and energize Kansas Masonic in the past was responsible for increases in Focus within the Masons organizations? Masons are different from membership. All Masons need to have more interaction other fraternal or civic organizations. In the General Population Survey nearly with potential members. The average of 3.3 The Order has a 400-year history, study 40 percent of respondents who had a posi- individuals contacted in the past two years required, a strong system of rituals, a doc- tive impression of the organization indicated by “other members” is too meager to sup- trine of beliefs, and generational ties. Com- their perception was based on knowing a port Lodge membership growth. Growth in membership largely falls on the shoulders of younger Masons. Decreas- In the General Population Survey nearly ing membership and the aging of active 40 percent of respondents who had a positive members pose special challenges for at- impression of the organization indicated tracting new members. Peer contacts tend to be made with friends the same age. Since their perception was based on knowing a family many Kansas Masons are no longer in the member, friend, or neighbor who was a Mason. workforce, the pool of contacts shrinks.
12 THE KANSAS MASON GRAND LODGE By Robert F. Nelson, Treasurer, Emporia Lodge No.12, A.F. & A.M
Keeping paper and electronic records organized is also a “must” - create a logical filing system and remember that you (and your successor) will need to locate reports and filings you’ve created. Lodge Treasurers –
So you’ve been elected to the office of Treasurer of your lodge. Congratulations! If you’re like me, you’re notG a financial professional, so your new duties may appear daunting. Don’tL worryet’s though – you have a lot ofet Brothers inO Masonryrganized! willing to help you get proficient!
In my experience, the secret to being a successful Treasurer is Keeping paper and electronic records organized is also a “must” simple: work closely with your Secretary and get organized. - create a logical filing system and remember that you (and your You and the Secretary are a team – financially, the Secretary is successor) will need to locate reports and filings you’ve created. responsible for collecting all receipts and you are responsible for Let’s get started on that calendar. The following is a list of the making deposits, writing checks and reporting the financial matters reports and returns required for our lodge, which meets on the 1st of the Lodge. If you work together and establish a good process, and 3rd Mondays of each month – adjust your calendar for your you should be able to perform your routine Treasurer’s duties in Lodge’s meeting schedule accordingly. less than an hour a week. The first step in organization is to use a planning calendar to cre- Note: This article does not cover those filings required for lodges with ate reminders for the financial “events” for which you’re responsi- employees – there are several annual and quarterly filings due to the Social ble, back timing these reminders so you don’t miss a deadline. Allow Security Administration and Department of the Treasury (the IRS) if your yourself adequate time to prepare your reports and filings, and add lodge has paid staff. See www.kansasmason.org for more information. some “flex time” for each event so you’re not always hurrying to get to the post office before it closes! continued on page 14
WINTER 2014 13 GRAND LODGE Lodge Treasurers – Let’s Get Organized! continued from page 13
EVERY OTHER WEEK PRIOR TO OUR 3. Make note of your current checking account balance STATED COMMUNICATION: At each Stated Communication, we provide the current checking ac- Meet with the Secretary a day or two before the Stated Communication. count balance, from your checkbook ledger or via online banking. This is This will give him time to open the mail and collect receipts, and allow you yet another example of financial transparency. to prepare the “reading of the bills” and create Treasurer’s reports – at our lodge, in written format for inclusion in the consent agenda. EVERY OTHER WEEK IMMEDIATELY Our Secretary separates incoming communications, receipts and bills FOLLOWING THE STATED COMMUNICATION: into labeled folders as they arrive. He tracks incoming cash and checks 1. Receive any moneys collected that day from the Secretary, and again in a written ledger and categorizes them appropriately (dues, facilities give him a receipt. rental, etc.). I can then do my job: Often Brothers will make payments the evening of the Communication. 1. Receive all checks and cash from the The Secretary receives these moneys, records and categorizes them, Secretary and provide him a receipt. then gives them to the Treasurer, again obtaining a written receipt. Sound familiar? This practice should not be bypassed! The Secretary 2. Account for these “last minute” receipts in an electronic (preferred) and Treasurer work together creating a sound financial practice using or paper ledger, appropriately categorizing each receipt. “checks and balances” to help prevent mistakes, or worse! (While I In the past, I used a spreadsheet or Quicken, but now use QuickBooks trust my lodge Brothers unequivocally, I know of lodges and other non- to allow me to quickly create a printed report of the days’ receipts. profit groups that have been impacted by embezzlement.) Having the 3. Prepare the bank deposit. Secretary keep a ledger of incoming moneys may seem redundant, but Organize cash and checks and double-check the deposit slip to ensure more than once his ledger has saved me from mistakes that might have accuracy and to minimize your time at the bank (you’ve got better things created hard feelings with my Brothers in the lodge. to do, don’t you?). When I hand him his “receipt” (a copy of the week’s payee names and amounts I’ve entered into our accounting software), he compares those MONTHLY: amounts with those he has recorded, confirming our totals balance. 1. Prepare financial statements for lodge review. 2. Write checks for financial obligations occurring since the last Since our first Stated Communication is on the first Monday, our meeting and provide a list to the Secretary for reading during the monthly reports are presented at the second Stated Communication via business meeting (or, as noted earlier, include in the consent agenda). our consent agenda. This practice allows time to receive the bank state- This is the second step of “checks and balances” that helps keep the ment and balance the checkbook. I present two reports each month - a Lodge’s finances “on track” – giving the Secretary a list of the bills is “transactions report” and a “reconciliation report,” both easily produced important, since he’s opened the incoming invoices and has an idea of using QuickBooks accounting software. the payees and amounts involved. His reading of the bills (or consent The transactions report is a listing of all cash transactions (cash and agenda) also provides transparency to the Brethren. checks) for the previous month, while reconciliation report shows all checks and deposits that have cleared the bank during the same period. A couple other tips: Using paper accounting, these reports are somewhat time consuming, When a Brother submits a store receipt for reimbursement, I ask but both are important to the Brethren (and your accountant!) The him to sign it – there’s nothing more frustrating than not knowing to transactions report will identify lost checks and provide transparency for whom to write the check! Also, require two signatures on lodge checks your actions, while you (or your accountant) will need the reconciliation – a common accounting practice which helps ensure funds are properly report to determine the lodge’s exact assets for your IRS returns (more distributed that is required by Grand Lodge by-law (see “Duties of the on these later). Treasurer”; by-law 3-308). Electronic accounting makes these reports very easy to produce and helps prevent math errors.
14 THE KANSAS MASON Software? Lodges chartered in Kansas by the Grand There, I’ve said it again – “QuickBooks.” I mention QuickBooks, not Lodge of Kansas are considered 501(c)(10) as an endorsement, but because we are in the process of switching fraternal organizations and are typically from Quicken to QuickBooks, specifically to enable our accounting exempt from federal and state income tax. To maintain this status, firm to directly import our financial data when preparing our annual all lodges are required to submit an annual non-profit return non-profit return, the “long-form” 990 described following. When (IRS From 990 in one of three “flavors”) annually. considering accounting software for your use, check with your ac- For the vast majority of lodges in Kansas, the electronically filed countant (if applicable) to find out what software “plays best” with 990-N “e-Postcard” is all that’s needed. Maintaining tax-exempt status theirs, and weigh your options. is critical to your Lodge! If your tax exemption is revoked, you will be subject to state and federal income taxes on all dues, rental income The “EIN” and donations made to the lodge. Please consult with an accounting One other thing you’ll need, even if you don’t have employees, is an professional if you have any questions regarding creation or submis- Employer Identification Number (or EIN, a.k.a. Taxpayer ID number, sion of the 990-N, 990-EZ, or 990 returns! Also note that the prin- or TIN). Each lodge should have an EIN. Find this number on a previ- cipal officers of the lodge must review your 990 or 990-EZ returns ous filing and keep it handy. For a brand new lodge, getting an EIN is a prior to filing as this is a requirement listed on the return itself, and simple online process. Visit irs.gov and search for “EIN” to apply. it’s always a good practice to have more than one set of eyes checking for errors before filing. Kansas Employer Serial Number If you cannot submit your 990 or 990-EZ return by the due (a.k.a. Employer’s state ID No”)? date, submit a Form 8868, Application for Extension of Time to File Since our lodge pays unemployment taxes to the State of Kansas, an Exempt Organization Return, to request an automatic 3-month we have an Employer Serial Number used on state forms and W-2’s extension of time to file. provided employees. Again, if your lodge has been in existence for NOTE: All Form 990 filings are subject to public inspection, and more than a year, and you have employees, you should have a Kansas failure to file your return on time may result in a penalty of $20/day Employer Serial Number. If you’re a new lodge, contact the Kansas late for those using a 990-EZ or 990. Department of Labor or visit www.KansasEmployer.gov to obtain See http://www.irs.gov/Charities-&-Non-Profits/Form-990-Series- a Kansas Employer Serial Number. Even if you don’t currently have Which-Forms-Do-Exempt-Organizations-File%3F-(Filing-Phase-In) for employees, you may in the future, so keep a record of this number. additional information.
ANNUALLY: Form 990-N “Annual Electronic NOTE: The Grand Lodge of Kansas is not an “umbrella” organization for Notice for Small Organizations” Kansas lodges – each Kansas lodge is required to submit their own return Most Kansas lodges have total gross receipts (income) of less than (as applicable) described below. $50,000 from dues, rentals, donations and fundraising and have total assets of less than $500,000. For these lodges, the Form 990-N Internal Revenue Service Return of Organization Exempt “e-Postcard” should be used (although you may submit the 990-EZ from Income Tax (Form 990, Form 990-EZ, or Form 990-N) or 990 form instead). Properly completed and filed annually, by the deadline, will maintain your tax-exempt status for another year. Due: The 15th day of the 5th month after the organiza- While there is no financial penalty for late submission, failure to tions accounting period ends (i.e. May 15th for a calendar file may result in the loss of your lodge’s tax-exempt status. If you year filer). You cannot file this return until after your tax year-ends. continued on page 16
WINTER 2014 15 GRAND LODGE Lodge Treasurers – Let’s Get Organized! continued from page 15 Annual Financial Review miss the deadline, file as soon as possible anyway. Due: “…as soon as practical after the Annual Communi- Form 990-EZ “Short Form Return of Organization Exempt From cation, and a report shall be submitted to the Lodge at a Income Tax” Stated Communication not later than forty-five days after Kansas lodges with total gross receipts of less than $200,000 and said Stated Communication…” by-law 3-318. total assets less than $500,000 at the end of their tax year may file a Required by Grand Lodge by-law, a financial audit is an annual require- 990-EZ return. ment, and should be conducted as soon as possible after the new line I recommend Treasurers consult an accounting professional to of officers is installed. Performed by the lodge’s Finance Committee ensure they properly complete the 990-EZ forms and schedules prior (by-law 3-317), the Lodge Secretary and Treasurer should be on hand to filing. Make sure you file this return on time or obtain an extension to answer any questions and locate the following records for review: if you can’t make the deadline. • Monthly financial reports including transactions and reconciliation See http://www.irs.gov/instructions/i990ez/ for additional reports. Our lodge reviews and approves these reports as part of information. our consent agenda so they are included with the minutes of the lodge throughout the year. Form 990 • Bank statements (checking and savings) and copies of cancelled Kansas lodges with total gross receipts of at least $200,000 or total checks. Note that most banks no longer provide cancelled checks assets equal to or greater than $500,000 at the end of their tax year with their statements – most will provide small photocopies with must file a 990 return. the statements if you select a checking account (usually for a small Again, Treasurers should consult an accounting professional to monthly fee) that provides this service. Believe me this expense is definitely worth the cost during the financial review process. ensure they properly complete the 990 forms and schedules prior to filing and make sure you file on time or receive an extension. • Investment reports See http://www.irs.gov/instructions/i990/ for additional (trust funds, property, etc.) information. • Membership records Now that we’ve kept the government happy, let’s move on to (provided by the Secretary) those items required to properly support our Lodge… • Copies of all Kansas and Federal returns, including your 990 an- nual return from the previous tax year. Budget Due: By tradition, at beginning of lodge year; While somewhat daunting, note this by-law does not require a no by-law reference CPA firm be involved. That said, asking a Brother with an accounting Now that you have your calendar nearly complete, don’t forget to or financial background to assist will help ensure the process is thor- include a reminder several months in advance your Annual Communi- ough without requiring a large amount of time. Proper record keeping cation to help prepare the Master of the Lodge in preparing a budget, and organization are critical! At our lodge, this audit requires less than the earlier, the better. In our lodge, we typically present the budget two hours of committee time in one evening, although preparing the at the first Stated Communication under the new Master, and move “audit” and the final written report usually takes a few more hours of for acceptance at his next Stated, although we’ve seen some budgets the chair of the Finance Committee’s time. accepted immediately. That’s it – we’ve built a calendar of Treasurer’s “events” to keep Start the budget process early –begin working on the budget early your lodge in the good graces of the civil authorities, Grand Lodge, during the future Master’s year as Senior Warden (or, better yet, and your membership. You are now ready to face your year as Trea- when he is Junior Warden.) surer, confident that you’ll beat your deadlines, provide transparency to the Craft, and create a new best friend in your Secretary!
16 THE KANSAS MASON GRAND LODGE
Grand Master’s C2A Class
By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff The Grand Master-sanctioned Chance to Ad- HGrand Lecturersigh really went allS out in putting Great Bend Lodge No. 15, declared the day vance (C2A),Sets held at the Wichita Scottisha Rite on this event, and I am very grateful fortandard their to be very enjoyable and enlightening, singling Center on August 9, 2014, was an impres- hard work.” out the Work of the Grand Lecturers for sive success. This singular forum advanced 34 The all-day event was attended by a full special commendation, while another of our Entered Apprentices to Fellow Crafts, and contingent of Grand Lodge Officers, and the newest Master Masons remarked that it “was then on the status of Master Masons. “This Degree Work was exemplified by the corp an awesome experience” that “inspired him is the only class this year, M.W. Grand Master of Grand Lecturers, who all put on their to seek even more light.” Michael Halleran said, as he opened Grand very best work. Six Past Grand Masters were “The Chance To Advance class was one Lodge to launch this rare event. All aspects also in attendance, as were Area and District of the most significant Grand Lodge events of it came together to make it every bit as Grand Masters from across the state. M.W. this year, and it represented something of a special as it was singular, and more than 110 Jeff Sowder, Past Grand Master in 1997, high- compromise. The Grand Master is charged attendees were on hand to profit from it. lighted the “great work” done by the Grand with representing his constituents – all of As Halleran observed, “I was surprised and Lecturers at the event, since the elevated them – and many Brothers have been asking pleased at the number of attendees, men- Work on display will lead directly to the for the Grand Lodge to permit full-on One tors and ‘candidates’ at the class – the level of “many Lodges” who, in turn, will themselves Day Classes, where a candidate could take enthusiasm was really something to see, and go on to “exemplify the same high quality all three degrees in one day. Many other the Work - as expected – was first rate. Your Degree Work” they witnessed that day. One Grand Senior Deacon, Bob Talbott, and all the of the new Master Masons, Joseph Johns of continued on page 18
FALL 2014 17 GRAND LODGE
Grand Master’s C2A Class Sets a High Standard continued from page 17 brothers were very opposed to that idea, as I confess I was myself. The Chance to Advance class was a middle ground, where I hoped to provide the best possible Work under Grand Lodge standards of quality, while still provid- ing the convenience that a true one-day conferral offers. The Council of Administra- tion will be evaluating feedback, as well as the participation of all the appendant bodies, and I am sure next year’s administration will use that feedback in determining whether or not the event will continue.” Grand Lecturer, Bob Talbott, provided an elegant summary of the day’s events, and and leadership in Kansas. Congratulations are find your place in Freemasonry, and make where he hopes Kansas Masonry will go from certainly due to all the newly raised Master the kind of difference of which we can all be here: “This year’s C2A was a tremendous Masons from the C2A class, as well as to proud. The Masonic life is a journey, and no effort, brought together by some of the their local Lodges. There is much work for all matter when each of us started, we have all most extremely talented Masonic ritualists of us to do, so now is the time to go forth, only just begun.”
Robert L. Tomlinson, Jr., PGM Resigns
New Interim Grand Treasurer Appointed Robert L. Tomlinson, Jr. L. Kent Needham
Grand Master Michael Halleran accepted M.W. Bob’s resigna- I know I can speak for the Craft and the Council of Adminis- tion with regret, knowing that with his recent move out-of- tration in wishing him the very best in his retirement.” state would make the job requirements very hard to fulfill Acting under the authority of the Laws of Kansas outside of Kansas. Masonry, the Grand Master has appointed L. Kent Needham, “M.W. Bob has been a great guiding force for the Grand PGM, as the interim Grand Treasurer. Lodge and the Council of Administration,” Halleran noted. Reached by telephone, M.W. Kent said that he was honored “Whenever we faced difficult decisions, or when we looked to be considered for the position, and that he accepts the for guidance and wisdom to determine a course of action, Bob interim appointment. He stated further he “will humbly serve was always there for us, whispering good counsel in our ears. the Craft as Grand Treasurer for the remainder of Bob’s term. His contribution as a Grand Lodge Officer and as a member of Any future service as Grant Treasurer will be subject to the the Council will be sorely missed.” will of the Craft in March.” Deputy Grand Master Daren Kellerman said “M.W. Bob’s A banker by profession, M.W. Bro. Needham will stand retirement leaves us with some very big shoes to fill. When- for election at the 2015 Annual Communication in March. ever the Craft has needed him, in whatever capacity, M.W. Bob If elected, he will serve as Grand Treasurer for the ensuing has always stepped up and been there for all Kansas Masons. Masonic year.
18 THE KANSAS MASON GRAND LODGE By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff
New District School Format Crosses Kansas Have you heard about or attended one of the newly structured District Schools that launched this fall? You've asked for change in the District School format and your Grand Lodge leader- ship has listened. While the ritual and floor movement of our degrees and ceremonies are rooted in antiquity it is our obligation to listen to the Craft and change the way some of the ritual is instructed. Attend a District School and let your District Deputy or Grand Lecturer know what works and what you need to learn the ritual of our great craft.
2014 - 2015 DISTRICT MEETING SCHEDULE (Combined districts are grouped and color coded) District Lodge City DDGM Grand Lecturer Assigned Start Time Date Assigned 1 Hiawatha No. 35 Hiawatha, KS Wayne Rector 9:00 AM 1/31/2015 2 Hancock No. 311 Leavenworkth, KS Victor Henke Vernon Clark 9:00 AM 1/17/2015 3 Henri No. 190 Tonganoxi, KS Andrew Cassity David Neal 9:00 AM 10/18/2014 4 Lawrence No. 6 Lawrence, KS Michael Stoops David Neal 9:00 AM 1/24/2015 5 Rosedale No. 333 Merriam, KS Kevin Hughes C. David Williams 9:00 AM 1/17/2015 6 Peace No. 243 Louisburg, KS Mike Johnson Bob Talbott 9:00 AM 1/24/2015 7 Parker No. 341 Parker, KS Daren Kellerman Vernon Clark 9:00 AM 1/10/2015 8 Parker No. 341 Parker, KS Gene Becker Vernon Clark 9:00 AM 1/10/2015 9 Xenia No. 47 Xenia, KS Wayne Rector Vernon Clark 9:00 AM 11/8/2014 10 Vulcan No. 229 Walnut, KS Don Wheeler Don Newman 9:00 AM 1/17/2015 11 Erie Erie, KS Dale Fritz C. David Williams 9:00 AM 1/10/2015 12 Erie Erie, KS C. David Williams 9:00 AM 1/10/2015 13 Iola No. 38 Iola, KS Kim Colgin David Snyder 9:00 AM 1/31/2015 14 Hebron No. 314 Gridly, KS Chris Birk Earl Bryant / Don Newman 9:00 AM 1/3/2015 16 Golden Rule No. 90 Topeka, KS Bob Amyx David Neal 9:00 AM 11/22/2014 17 Golden Rule No. 90 Topeka, KS Bob Amyx David Neal 9:00 AM 11/22/2014 15 York Rite Bldg (Topeka) Topeka, KS Mike Bell C. David Williams 9:00 AM 1/31/2015 18 York Rite Bldg (Topeka) Topeka, KS Don Davidson C. David Williams 9:00 AM 1/31/2015 19 Lafayette No. 16 Manhattan, KS Daniel Bostrom Ron Main 9:00 AM 1/24/2015 20 Lafayette No. 16 Manhattan, KS Daniel Bostrom Ron Main 9:00 AM 1/24/2015 21 Lafayette No. 16 Manhattan, KS Daniel Bostrom Ron Main 9:00 AM 1/24/2015 22 Salina No. 160 Salina, KS Timothy Fowler Don Newman/Earl Bryan 9:00 AM 1/31/2015 32 Salina No. 160 Salina, KS Timothy Fowler Don Newman/Earl Bryan 9:00 AM 1/31/2015 23 Emporia No. 12 Emporia, KS Mark Snider Wayne Rector 9:00 AM 1/24/2015 24 Hope No. 155 Howard, KS Same Oakleaf Bob Talbott 9:00 AM 1/10/2015 25 Oxford No. 165 Oxford, KS Aaron Rush Don Newman/Ron Detwiler 9:00 AM 1/10/2015 26 Haysville No. 112 Haysville, KS Lowell Brown Ron Main 9:00 AM 2/21/2015 27 Joppa No. 222 Leon, KS Alan Kelley Don Newman/Ron Detwiler 9:00 AM 1/24/2015 28 Newton No. 142 Newton, KS Dahl Carmichael David Snyder 9:00 AM 1/10/2015 29 Northstar No. 168 Wichita, KS Bryant Devine David Snyder 9:00 AM 1/17/2015 30 Delta No. 77 Medicine Lodge, KS Jason Gibson Vernon Butt 9:00 AM 10/25/2014 31 Sterling No. 131 Sterling, KS Kelly Long Vernon Butt 9:00 AM 1/10/2015 33 Bellevile No. 129 Belleville, KS Lonnie Craig Wayne Rector 9:00 AM 2/28/2015 34 35 Millbrook No. 281 Hill City, KS Alex Leslie David Snyder 9:00 AM 10/25/2014 36 Russell No. 177 Russell, KS George Read Vernon Butt 9:00 AM 1/24/2015 37 St. Benard No. 222 Dodge City, KS Ben Parker Ron Main 9:00 AM 1/31/2015 38 Fargo No. 300 Liberal, KS Mark Brack C. David Williams 9:00 AM 1/24/2015 39 Anthem No. 284 Scott City, KS Larry Ochs Vernon Butt 9:00 AM 11/15/2014 40 Sharon Springs No. 417 Sharon Springs, KS Mark Smith Vernon Butt 9:00 AM 11/22/2014
WINTER 2014 19 GRAND LODGE By John G. Crary, PM, Hancock Lodge No. 311 information still requested and given. And almost without exception, the self-same questions are found in today’s Entered Ap- prentice Degree, including the second and third section lectures. Some information is blurred, or at least from our point of view, possibly borrowed from other Degrees, but the underlying theme is still very clear, some fifteen score and eight years later. Of particular interest is the comparison I recently had the opportunity to study a truly ing Fathers, including John Adams, Patrick of where ancient Masons met, versus those amazing document: The Edinburgh Register Henry, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, Thomas of 1696. We learn that “our ancient Brethren House Manuscript 1696, which is believed to Jefferson, James Madison, and George usually met on a high hill or a low dale….to be the oldest written example of Masonic Washington, just to name a few, is still 30 to keep off all cowans and eavesdroppers….” It is Ritual. Please ponder that date for a mo- 50 years in the future. Shakespeare had been clear that the need for secrecy and security ment—1696. What the world was like 318 gone for eighty years, and the year that marks was as fundamental to ancient Masonry as it years ago? Let’s take a quick look. the symbolic birth of our country was still still remains many centuries later. Compare In London, England, Parliament enacts eighty years away. Suffice it to say that the that with the description of where our Breth- legislation that creates the Bank of England. world of 1696 was beset with many now- ren of the 17th Century met: “a day’s Journey In the Anglo-Scottish border region of unknown dangers, and the times were very from a burroughs town, without bark of a dog Scotland, a devastating famine leads to a different in innumerable ways. or crow of a cock.” Without doubt, these early significant migration of Scots into England. So I was quite pleasantly surprised and Brothers also shared the same fundamental In Russia, during the Russo-Turkish War, totally intrigued by the extremely clear con- need for security and secrecy—a need that, Peter the Great begins his second campaign nections between modern Masonic Ritual at least where Masonry is concerned, seems against the Turkish fortress of Azov. and the Ritual described in The Edinburgh timeless. The Treaty of Turin is reached by King Register House Manuscript 1696. Many of the After studying this manuscript, it is easy to Louis XIV of France and Victor Amadeus II, test questions and answers presented in 1696 see where the roots of our modern Masonic the Duke of Savoy. were surprisingly familiar to this Mason over ritual come from. If a man was asked if he In Colonial America, The English Parlia- three hundred years later, as I sat reading was a Mason and answered affirmatively, the ment passes legislation dictating that all them here in 2014. Many words and phrases next challenge was, “How shall I know it?” Our colonial trade had to be done using only used in that manuscript are hauntingly famil- 17th Century Brethren were instructed to British-built ships. The Navigation Act of iar, and I have no doubt that with very little answer “By signs tokens and other points of 1696 also expands the powers of customs preparation time, an active modern Mason entry.” I believe this reference in the manu- commissioners, giving them the authority could prove himself with little trouble, only to script is a direct “ancestor”, so to speak, of to commit forcible entry and requiring that find himself sitting in Lodge with brothers of our modern Ritual, wherein we speak of the bonds be posted on certain goods. 318 years ago. What a treat that would be. four cardinal virtues. In the great state of Connecticut, High- Even the orders of appearance in which Now let us look at how our 17th Century way 108 is built, connecting Stratford and the questions and answers appear are familiar Brothers talked about their Lodge. The ex- Trumbull, a distance of about 3.2 miles. It is to modern Masons. From the first question, aminer would ask, “Where shall I find the key the third oldest highway in Connecticut. “Are you a Mason?”—all the way through to of your Lodge?” In 1696, the birth of Our Nation’s Found- “Are you a fellow craft?”—clearly embodies Please note that this question is very
20 THE KANSAS MASON TRUMBULL question helps tell us that: “Which is the key of your lodge?” Here the choice of words is curious yet again. What is not used. Rather our Brethren chose which. This convinces me further that they were indicating that their key was with them in the grave. If this was not the case, the proper word to use would have been what. But the examiner, knowing that the grave was the real location in question, would naturally want to know, of I recently had the opportunity to study a truly all the remains in a grave, “Which is the key of amazing document: The Edinburgh Register your lodge?” The answer given is this: “A weel House Manuscript 1696, which is believed to hung tongue.” This phrase translates today to be the oldest written example of Masonic a well-held tongue, which is characteristic of Ritual. Please ponder that date for a mo- someone who can keep secrets and does not ment—1696. What the world was like 318 participate in frivolous gossip. years ago? Let’s take a quick look. The follow-on question asks, “Where lies In London, England, Parliament enacts the key?” Here we have a very direct and legislation that creates the Bank of England. pointed question. It is answered this way: “In In the Anglo-Scottish border region of the bone box.” Staying with the grave anal- Scotland, a devastating famine leads to a ogy, the bone box must be referring to the significant migration of Scots into England. skull, where the tongue is housed. Our 17th In Russia, during the Russo-Turkish War, STRATFORD Century Brothers obviously placed significant Peter the Great begins his second campaign importance on secrecy and created an elabo- against the Turkish fortress of Azov. specific and carefully worded. He does not under a prepared upright stone, which was rate and clever way of teaching themselves The Treaty of Turin is reached by King ask where the key to the lodge is, or where sitting on green grass. This sounds exactly like that cornerstone lesson of our fraternity. Louis XIV of France and Victor Amadeus II, shall he might find the keyfor the lodge, but the description of a grave. Our early broth- I am firmly convinced that the miracle the Duke of Savoy. rather asks about the key of your lodge. ers must have believed they took the key to of our Ritual is derived from the purest of In Colonial America, The English Parlia- The correct answer is “Three foot and their Lodge with them upon their death. hearts. For centuries, many of the bright- ment passes legislation dictating that all an half from the lodge door, under a perpend The second part of the question, “But est and best educated men the world has colonial trade had to be done using only esler, and a green divot. But under the lap of under the lap [lobe] of my liver, where all my ever known have studied, pondered, prayed British-built ships. The Navigation Act of my liver, where all my secrets of my heart lie.” secrets of my heart lie,” represents to me that over, and risked their lives and fortunes, all 1696 also expands the powers of customs What does this answer mean? Taken literally, all secrets, especially Masonic ones, are to be based on the words of our Ritual. These commissioners, giving them the authority it means three feet six inches outside the closely guarded. I also believe that this pas- words have been chosen very carefully and to commit forcible entry and requiring that Lodge door. It is “under a perpend esler,” sage contains the very early inklings of what undoubtedly stem from Special Providence. bonds be posted on certain goods. which is a prepared perpendicular stone. And our modern Ritual refers to as “jewels of the So from whence have we came? From a very In the great state of Connecticut, High- a last hint is added “and a green divot,” which Second Degree.” long and distinguished line of Brothers and way 108 is built, connecting Stratford and denotes green grass. From this descrip- We have earlier examined where this Fellows, who have created the treasured Trumbull, a distance of about 3.2 miles. It is tion, we can deduce that our 17th Century early Masonic writer says the key to his lodge basis upon which we may all, one golden the third oldest highway in Connecticut. Brothers believed the key to their lodge was is generally located, but what exactly was day, enjoy endless refreshment in the Grand In 1696, the birth of Our Nation’s Found- located on the outside of the Lodge door, this key, and where was it kept? The next Lodge above.
WINTER 2014 21 FROM THE ARCHIVES By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff Kansas Masonic Foundation Takes First Step In Preserving Kansas Masonic History Good news! A new and important Masonic journey has just begun.
The Kansas Masonic Foundation has taken need at the very time they may need it. the first step in preserving the rich history of Not only will all of the Annual Proceed- Kansas Freemasonry by funding the digitiza- ings be available, they will also be indexed so tion of the Grand Lodge Annual Proceedings, that researchers and Masons alike can search starting with the very first entry in them using any search criteria they might like 1856 and continuing straight through to locate whatever information they want to today. or need, even across many years and many The Annual Meeting Minutes/ miles, as well as in a growing number of loca- Proceedings—which include almost tions, further expediting the efficiency and 50,000 pages—are being scanned and value of the new system. digitized to ensure that this collec- This is only the FIRST of many critical tion will be preserved for the future steps in preserving the past of Kansas Free- in a form that’s both masonry, but it’s definitely a significant step in readily available and its own right. The process of preserving the user-friendly. As a result, priceless collection that resides within the researchers and Broth- walls of Grand Lodge Building will take sever- ers across the World al years and a substantial investment of time will have easy access to and treasure, and the commitment of the these records whenev- Kansas Masonic Foundation to “get started” er and wherever they with this first endeavor is only a small part of might be needed. our overall plan for the future. To make this But as Kansas Masons with a proud past, necessity a reality, preserving a big part of the historical basis The Grand Lodge of of that pride will play a key role in getting Kansas will be work- Kansas Masonry headed in the direction ing with The George where we all want it to go. Every journey Washington National Memorial Associa- begins with a single step, as the apt old saying tion to host the digital files and make them goes, and this well-chosen start not only easily accessible. Further, as more and more moves to preserve our cherished history, but Masonic jurisdictions also choose to part- also makes it accessible to the public at large ner with The George Washington National in a form they can understand and appreci- Memorial Association, it will be increasingly ate. But as always when we embark on a new possible for Masons in their many jurisdic- Masonic adventure together, it will take all tions across the length and breadth of the of us working together to give it the kind of country to access the exact information they ending we all want it to have.
22 THE KANSAS MASON MEMBER INTERVIEW By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff
Rite and York Rite (Salina, KS), with aspirations Why is Freemasonry important to you? to continue his quest for Masonic Light and Freemasonry is important to me for so involvement in all levels of Masonry. many reasons. I believe each of us has a duty to God, to our families, and to our- How did you find out about Freemasonry? selves, in that we should continually strive I first heard about Freemasonry when I to be the very best that we can be. It may was very young, and its mystique has always be a cliché, but through Freemasonry, we intrigued me. I never knew whom to ask have the unity of our fraternity, which af- Rob McClarty about it, or about the “ask one to be one” fords us the opportunity to have men of the principle. But soon after I moved to McPher- highest caliber as our mentors, mentees, Rob McClarty is happily married to his wife son, I found that several of my officers were friends and allies. Also through Freemason- Jana for 28 years. Together they have two Masons. As I began to watch and observe ry, we have access to an array of tools and adult children Justin and Alycia, and both are these men, their character—and not only educational opportunities that allow us to engaged to be married later this fall. This will how they presented themselves, but also develop the traits, techniques, and practical give him another daughter, Melissa, and son, how they truly served our community as skills of leadership. These are abilities that Nate Spriggs. leaders—I knew that I had to know more, we are able to rely upon, not only in the With nearly 28 years in law enforcement, and I began asking them questions. I was Lodge, but also in our daily lives—church, he began his career as a Reserve Deputy soon invited to a Lodge installation dinner family, work, and community. Sheriff in Kalispell, Montana. In 1991, he and the installation ceremony that followed relocated to Hutchinson, Kansas, where he it, where I was afforded the opportunity to Why is Freemasonry important to your accepted a position as a full-time police offi- meet and fellowship with a number of other community? cer. In the fall of 2011, after a 21-year career Masons. A member of my Command Staff Many upright Masons are actively involved in in Hutchinson, he was selected as the Chief was just then becoming the Worshipful Mas- giving back to our community, through child of Police in McPherson, Kansas. ter at Lindsborg Lodge. He began answering safety events, scholarships, highway cleanups, Though he is not as active as he once my questions, and I knew I wanted to be part charitable giving, and community leadership. was, he is still an avid SCUBA diver and of this group. Soon thereafter, I was Entered, We have Masons spread throughout our instructor. For the past two years, he has also Passed, and Raised. community, as key governmental leaders, served as the Chairman of the Kansas State educators, businessmen, laborers, and church Fair Foundation Board and as a board mem- What do your friends think about your members. Freemasonry is important to ber there since 2008. He is an active mem- involvement? every community in which it exists because ber of both the Kansas Association of Chiefs My friends include Masons and non-Masons, of the upright, ethical, charitable, honorable of Police and the International Association of who hold varying opinions about the Broth- men who are part of the Brotherhood. Chiefs of Police. He currently enjoys life as erhood, ranging from being supportive, an empty nester with Jana, thriving on com- to expressing little or no interest in even How has Freemasonry inspired you, or munity activities, travel, fun, and challenging knowing anything more about Freemasonry. made you a better person? life experiences, shared with his friends and I have a couple friends who are currently Masonic values and education have inspired his Brother Masons. non-Masons, who support what we do and and helped me to be a better man, husband, Rob is an active member of Lindsborg have recently even begun to ask questions father, friend and Christian—on the level. Lodge No. 397, where he serves as the Junior about it; maybe someday they, too, will want Deacon, along with being active in the Scottish to become Masons. continued on page 34
WINTER 2014 23 AROUND THE WORLD By Perry Cross Jr., Assistant Grand Tyler Midwest Conference of Grand Lodges Far Exceeds Expectations
The trip to Madison, Wisconsin for the Mid- western Conference of Grand Lodges was an awesome experience for me. I had gotten a call from the Deputy Grand Master, asking if I could attend. My answer was, “Of course.” Being low man on the totem pole, I assumed I would be carrying bags, or expected to take meticulous notes during the breakout sessions, while the “Big Wigs” mingled and enjoyed fellowship. And in all honesty, both I was expecting a pretty stuffy and rigid pay lip service to a principle—these Broth- of those tasks would have been all right with four-hour drive. But I was in for a pleasant ers instantly made me feel included and me, since just the fact that I was invited to surprise. Conversations and ideas immedi- sought my opinion on matters pertaining to attend really was an honor, all by itself. ately started flying back and forth in the van. improving the larger Masonic experience, Before starting the drive from Fort Riley Differences, agreements, points and counter not to mention on what should be done to Topeka that Friday Kansas Masons points, all rapidly started being to improve things at the local Lodge level. morning, I had visualized fired back and forth. I was mak- It was truly an experience that I will never how the drive up would are out front ing mental notes on everything forget—and that was just the drive up. be. I was going to be leading the way that was being said and soon Once we arrived and got settled, I again riding with the Deputy fully understood that we have had visions of what it would be like meeting Grand Master; the Grand in the region. Brothers in our Craft who are Brothers from the other jurisdictions. I was Secretary, who is a Past Grand Master; the so passionate about our institution and have sure that I would feel uncomfortable and out Grand Sword Bearer, who has been award- such a wealth of knowledge and vision that of place. But once again, I was happy to be ed an Unlimited Card; and an Area Deputy they could keep us moving forward for an- wrong. As soon as we got there and were Grand Master, who was a recent recipient other 300 years all by themselves. “On the greeted by the Host Grand Lodge Officers, of the Grand Master’s Order of Merit, so level” is more than just a slogan or a way to there was instant comfort and fellowship.
24 THE KANSAS MASON Handshakes and introductions were made, and I was immediately put at ease because I was amongst Brothers. The entire environ- ment was great and comforting. And the blocks of instruction quickly showed me two Fraternal Secrets By James K. Remick. M.P.S. things: first, that Masonry is alive and well in Newly enrolled members within the Masonic brotherhood who have had little or no infor- the Midwest and Canada and will continue, mation on the subject, are momentarily disturbed when they discover that there is offered not only to survive, but to flourish, as long to unwary buyers publications purporting to set forth the secrets of Masonry. as Brothers like these are at the Helm of It is not a new thing and each generation seems to supply certain queer mentalities, their respective jurisdictions; and second, who either from the incentive to, be vicious or having a monetary motive have offered that Kansas Masonry is at the very tip of the the public such a poor exhibition of literature that it would seem incredible a reputable spear, at least when it comes to charting a publisher or dealer would find the time or space for it. The naturally resentful brother progressive Masonic direction. need have little concern. These purveyors of so-called secrets are as far from having While we learned a great deal from entered the inner sanctum as they are from being commercially dignified. It is reasonable the other Jurisdictions that were there, it to understand that should all of Masonry be concealed under secret ritual no light could became clear that Kansas Masonry, through ever shine to beckon into the fold those who may have attained to the honor. Masonry our Lodges, is truly making great strides, has nothing to hide or to secrete. To the contrary it expounds the doctrine that has and others at the conference were eager to led mankind from the unthinking clod to his present attainments, and it is that journey learn more about the things we are doing. wherein lies the secrets that sordid gold-gathering would befoul. We were asked what kind of impact our Enlightenment within Masonry is an individual attainment and the door is closed upon programs and projects have made and what the real secrets until opened from within. The ritual of the Craft is but symbolism and obstacles we had met along the way. In the the real secrets are only heard by a beholding brother and never peddled by profanes. It is perhaps appropriate to term the inner mysteries recondite rather than secret; past, I had sometimes suspected that it was so what could a purveyor of clandestine compilations know of the silver cord or of the just the Grand Lodge Officers duty to make golden bowl. The ladder of Jacob and its place in human history and effort is beyond a visit and then always say things like, “Kansas the ken of a literary bootlegger. It requires the talents of an honest man to uncover and Masons are out front leading the way in the practically apply the real secrets of Masonry, and such a man has neither idle time nor in- region.” I thought such cheerful claims were centive to besmirch his honor with a tawdry offering that could only interest the morbid. just encouraging Grand Lodge talking points, The secret of the Inner Chamber is for those only who are worthy and have attained designed to help keep us motivated, but this to the high honor and the right to abide therein. The "open sesame" is the recondite trip affirmed for me both that we really are property of the individual and is never purchased in the market, nor is there a short path aggressive and relentless in our approach to to the door thereof. improving our fraternity—and that the things To discover the secret of the All-Seeing Eye entails the labor of ages. To fathom the we do really are working. At the dinner reason for the Masonic apron is to acquire knowledge known only in full measure by the table, other Brothers wanted to know about Priest Kings of millennia past. To understand and appreciate the significance of the sweet our Affinity lodges, how we make and keep incense from the Masonic censor is to be in Fraternal communion with the Musters who The Kansas Mason such an excellent publi- long since have graduated their earthly tenure. cation, and how our Leadership Academy And yet the soul in darkness labors in the delusion that the secrets of Freemasonry works—even our Degree Petition forms can be had for money. They have never been sold; they cannot he bought in the market; they are acquired through sacrifice and unfoldment. were singled out as exceptional. Brand recog- Ten Commandments have been vouchsafed for our guidance, to which we may add the nition and quality are imperative to making eleventh that traffickers in worthless printing may well observe. Most applicable is this our future successful, and we definitely seem latter day admonition - "Mind your own business." Be not disturbed, Masonry nor its Principles have ever been bought or sold. continued on page 29
WINTER 2014 25 providing the manpower to cut and cook all of the homemade Suzy-Qs, which Prudence Lodge No. 100 provided the equipment to cook. All the rest of the hard work that made that very pleasant event the big success that it was came from Pittsburg Lodge No. 187, including the distribution of bottled water to the campers. Second, the evenings of bowling at Holiday MAKING A DIFFERENCE Lanes on Wednesday and Friday during the By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff week were stand-out events for all who were there. The staff of the bowling alley did a friend- KMF Band Camp Roars On Towards 40 ly and professional job, and the facility itself was cleverly designed and decorated with the idea On July 22nd of this year, the 31st Annual both at the same time. By this stage of the of pleasing young people, so all who attended Kansas Masonic All-State Band Camp began game, no band director alive is any more had little choice but to have a lot of fun. its fourth decade of bringing together top experienced and skilled at inspiring band Thirdly, during a special award ceremony band students from all over the state for a camp students to play at the very highest on Friday that included an excellent speech challenging and enjoyable week of musical level they possibly can than Douglas Whitten, by Deputy Grand Master Daren L. Keller- achievement, unlike anything that most at- Director of Ath- DURING A SPECIAL AWARD tendees have ever experienced before—or in letic Bands at CEREMONY, THREE AWARDS most cases, ever will again, unless, of course, Pittsburg State they get to return to band camp. University, and WERE GIVEN OUT BY THE This year’s camp followed the time-hon- this year’s group KANSAS MASONIC FOUNDATION. ored pattern of this event, in that it includes gave him plenty of talent to work with. man, three special awards were given out by days that revolve around the daily practices Besides the very productive daily prac- the Kansas Masonic Foundation, with valuable that make the remarkable public perfor- tice time, which totaled over 35 hours of in input provided by Doug Whitten and his staff. mances the camp is known for possible. From the hot sun, four of the week’s major events Though the choice of winners for all of the the start of registration at 8 a.m. on Tuesday deserve special mention. The first is the ham- awards given out was, as always, difficult, with morning, when old friendships began to be burger feed that took place on Tuesday eve- such an accomplished array of musicians pres- renewed and new ones began to be made, ning, as a kind of welcome to camp. Pittsburg ent, the $500 Masonic Pride Award, conceived to the last minute of camp after the halftime Lodge No. 187 was joined by members of to honor a student distinguished by “random performance on the evening of Saturday the Galena Lodge No. 194 in making that event acts of kindness and service to all bandkind,“ 26th, life for the 2014 campers was guided possible, with Brothers from Galena setting went to Erick Sherman, from De Soto High by the rhythms of hard work, fun, and often up the large grill to cook the hamburgers and School. Awarded this year for only the second
26 THE KANSAS MASON Dear Kansas Masons,
Thank you for giving me the chance to be in the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band because without you, I would have never had the opportunity to be a part of such a great event. I had an amazing time and it was definitely the biggest highlight of my summer. The Shrine Bowl is a great way to raise money for the Shri- ner kids and for all of the Shriner Hospitals and I was glad that I could be a part of it. This marching band gave me the opportunity to meet new people, improve my marching techniques and most importantly help out the Shriner society. It was such an inspirational trip and I loved every second of it. On the way to band camp I was a little scared because I was going to be one time, the $1000 Jeff Atherly Inspirational of the youngest kids there and I wasn’t going to know anyone, but once I arrived Award, given to a multi-year camp attendee, I found out that I was going to be perfectly fine. The people I met at band camp seen as instilling spirit and camaraderie were all amazing musicians and they were all great people. The staff and the march- throughout the band, went to Takoda Eckert, ers all made me feel very welcomed into the program and everyone was always very from Hugoton High School(who also gave nice and respectful. I thought it was awesome meeting new people and being able a well-received presentation as the band to talk about things you had in common. It was also interesting hearing about the different parts of Kansas that people were from. I think that I laughed more during representative at the East-West Shrine Bowl those five days than I have in my entire life. All of my friends had a great sense of Banquet the same evening and is interviewed humor and I will definitely remember them and keep in touch for a very long time. elsewhere in this issue). And finally, the $1500 Another great part of the band camp also helped me as a musician too. I Outstanding Musician Award, which has so far learned so many new things musically that I feel like I am senior in my high school always gone out to a person who either went marching band. Everything that I learned has helped me in one way or another with my music here and the band staff at Pitt State were such great directors and they on to major or otherwise participate in band were all very friendly and willing to help me with anything. I thought that the band in college, went this year to Zerul Kutina, from camp was a very educational and beneficial week for me. Royal Valley High School. My favorite part of the entire trip was meeting the Shriner kids and knowing that And fourth—but as all involved would I was helping them by being a part of the band. Hearing their stories was inspira- agree most importantly of all—Thursday tional and very heart warming. It made me really grateful of the things I have and morning featured the opportunity for band the life I am living. It really moved me learning how the kids lived their lives and the challenges that they face. I was truly touched of how positive the kids were and how camp attendees to meet representatives of well they handled their life challenges. After seeing the kids I didn’t look down on the Shriner Hospitals for Children—staff, them because they were different than I was; I looked up to them as leaders. It is patients, and parents of patients alike—who one thing to live a normal life and be happy but to live a life with so many challenges together provided numerous striking insights and still be such an amazing person. It’s amazing. Those kids taught me that the best into just how fortunate most of us are, simply way to live life is to take what you have and turn it into something wonderful. I’m to face the kinds challenges that life throws glad that the money we raised went to the hospitals and to the Shriner kids because I wouldn’t have wanted it to go anywhere else. at everyone, without facing the additional I had an amazing time and I really hope I get the chance to return to the Shrine obstacles provided by the kinds of physical Bowl for the next four years. Thank you for such a breathtaking experience and I disabilities that have shaped the lives of the really think that the Shrine Bowl was the best part of my summer. I enjoyed putting patients whom this year’s band camp students together the halftime show and I was sad to leave but hopefully there will be more met. During a special meeting with four and years to come. It was truly a remarkable experience. Thanks for everything. five-year band camp attendees that KMF Di- Sincerely, rector Robert Shively held, all the students in Austin attendance agreed that it was always in those Olathe Northwest High School personal meetings with the young patients Olathe, Kansas
continued on page 28
WINTER 2014 27 MAKING A DIFFERENCE KMF Band Camp Roars On Towards 40 continued from page 27 that the real reason for their week of hard work snapped into focus: everything they had done and would do during band camp week Dear Kansas Masons, was most definitely FOR THE KIDS! And needless to say, all of the band’s Thank you so much for inviting me to the Kansas Masonic High School Camp this performances—for the East-West Shrine year in Pittsburg, KS. We ended the week with a parade and a pre and half-time Bowl Banquet, during the pre-game and show at the Shrine Bowl last Saturday. I can’t even express how rewarding this experience was! I learned so much halftime shows, and during the parade itself and made life-long friends I hope to see again. Even while working hard every day, were, as we have come to expect from the everyone from the Directors to the Volunteers made the camp unforgettable. I met Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band, both band members from schools I didn’t even know existed and can honestly say I have terrific and exciting to watch. One of Doug’s never met a more friendly and helpful group of people. Learning the songs and mo- staff members noted that in his five years of tions for the show was something I thoroughly enjoyed! It was great to see people helping to direct band camp bands, he had from all walks of life come together for such a great cause. Until this camp, I had heard of the Shriners but I didn’t know what all they do for never seen a band that got good as fast as this people. I know now how much they do for kids. They really must be an organiza- one did. And due to the way the parade was tion that is dedicated to making the world a better place! I know they did mine! configured this year, a special unplanned bonus was provided for the football players, who Sincerely, got an unplanned chance to see the band play Lilly Louisburg High School from a much shorter distance than has been Louisburg, Kansas typical in the past, and their reactions to the experience as it was happening made it clear that they were impressed, especially during the band’s performance of Pittsburg State’s in a Facebook post he made on the Kansas was a very special one, but there is no reason distinctive War Chant. Masonic All-State High School Marching that the 2015 camp can’t be every bit as spe- This year’s band director, Doug Whitten, Band’s timeline just a few days after this cial—or that next year’s version can’t include put it very well: “Participating in the Masonic year’s camp ended, and it appears here in you and your lodge—and that’s true whether Band is a great way to make lifelong friends nearly the same freewheeling form that he you’ve ever been involved before or not. A and perform in an excellent ensemble while wrote it in, so that the power of his enthusi- total of 133 Kansas Lodges sponsored one or serving a charitable cause. For many, the Kan- asm is not lost: more students this year, but there’s no reason sas Masonic Band experience was the best I have been an Adviser at Masonic Band that number can’t rise even higher next year, five days of their lives.” With the inspiration Camp for 6 years and this has been by far the when the East-West Shrine Bowl returns to of giving deserving kids an experience like BEST ONE YET! THANK YOU, Bob Shively, Fort Hays State University. that—while yet more importantly, making as Director of the Kansas Masonic Foundation, But no matter how good it gets, the much money as possible for the Shrine Hos- and to all of the Band Camp Advisers. But Kansas Masonic All-State High School March- pitals for Kids—is it any wonder that every most of all, thank you to all the MEMBERS OF ing Band Camp will never be all it can be year of band camp seems to get better than THE 2014 MARCHING BAND, and to the Pitt without you. So why not start planning now the one before. State Band Staff, for a job WELL DONE!!!!!!!!!! to get your Lodge more involved in 2015 Adviser Troy Bosserman put it very well Troy is definitely right. This year’s camp than it’s ever been before?
28 THE KANSAS MASON MAKING A DIFFERENCE AROUND THE WORLD By Hugh W. Gill, Attorney, Hinkle Law Firm LLC Midwest Conference of Grand Lodges Far Exceeds Expectations Planing Your Estate Now Makes Sense continued from page 24 to be achieving at that, too. We left the You may not be aware, but you currently conference better educated, and whenever have an estate plan in place, whether or not we shared aspects of our vision, it was always you designed it yourself. well received. While at the conference, I was fortu- Each state, including Kansas, has a plan nate enough to meet many Brothers who for what will happen to a person’s property provided me with their state lapel pins. One Brother said he did not have one with him if they die without a plan of their own. to give me but would send me one. He asked for my address and wrote it down on a Relying on the state’s of a will, who will handle your affairs after napkin. I thought default rules, called your death or incapacity. Additionally, you that was a nice Masonry is alive intestacy, is not can choose who will make financial and gesture, but that and well in the consistent with what health care decisions for you should you nothing else Midwest and most people want. become incapacitated. If you have minor would come Canada and will However, by choosing children, you can also nominate who will from it. Then to create an estate plan, you give yourself act as their guardian and conservator. continue, not that Thursday, I control over many aspects of what hap- Choosing to plan now will also save only to survive, got a package in pens in the event of death or incapacity. time and money in the long run. By ap- the mail, and in it but to flourish You can control who gets what, when pointing your own fiduciaries, you can save was a lapel pin from his state: a true example they get it, how much they get, and under on costly administrative expenses after of a Brother following up on his word. I sent what conditions they will get your prop- your death. Additionally, if you become a thank-you note, and we have a continued erty. You can also choose to include chari- incapacitated, you would save time by our correspondence to this day. ties in your plan, which is not included in having already nominated your fiduciaries I enjoyed the trip a great deal and would the state’s plan for you. as opposed to a court appointing them for When you choose to plan, you will you. If you choose to use a revocable trust, certainly suggest that whenever space is also get to choose the fiduciaries, includ- you can also avoid costly probate court available, at least one non-progressive line ing the trustee of a trust and the executor expenses following your death. officer like me should be given the chance to go to these conferences each year. It truly As a member of Hinkle Law Firm LLC’s trusts and estates practice group, Mr. Gill uses his allows you to see the Big Picture, and it is extensive experience in business and tax matters to lead the probate and trust administration refreshing to know that we are all working needs of the group. He is primarily responsible for guardianships and conservatorships, disability together to keep our beautiful institution planning, post-mortem tax planning, and marital agreements. He also assists clients with estate thriving. I am very thankful to have been planning, asset protection, business entity formation, and business succession planning. afforded the opportunity to attend this year. While a student at the University of Kansas and the University of Kansas School of Law, I have brought what I learned there back Hugh was the recipient of a number of awards, including the Payne & Jones Award and the to my Lodge in Clay Center, and we are a Wall Street Journal Award for the top M.B.A. student in finance. Today, he frequently lectures demonstrably better Lodge for it. on estate planning and estate administration topics. He has been recognized by Best Lawyers And isn’t that what a Masonic trip like this in America and Kansas/Missouri Super Lawyers. is all about?
WINTER 2014 29 MAKING A DIFFERENCE By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff ANNUAL FREEMASON’S AUCTIONS add NEW GEMS to Annual Communication’s Crown Among the many pleasant surprises that this year’s Annual Communication featured back in March was an event so successful that it was instantly transformed into a yearly feature, namely, the Annual Freemason’s Endowment Charity Auction.
It was established to benefit a fund adminis- ranging from gold pocket watches, to unique But because time really does fly, enough tered by both the Grand Lodge and Kansas Masonic Aprons to once-in-a-lifetime trips to time has already gone by that we’re already Masonic Foundation, which is aimed at help- select destinations all across the continental soon to be closer to the next Annual Commu- ing Masons, their families, and also orphans United States and beyond. Over $45,000 was nication than we are to the one that is already when they need it most. A wide array of raised—an amazing total for a first-time event fading into the past. 2015’s Annual Freemason’s stand-out items sold for impressive sums, of the kind. Endowment Charity Auction promises to be REVIEW THE LIST BELOW TO LEARN ABOUT THE ITEMS DONATED EARLY, AS A GREAT EXAMPLE AND INSPIRATION FOR DONATION IDEAS Vintage Fire Chief Pedal Car Boxed Arrowhead Collection 1905 Elgin Finger Bridge Masonic 2 Masonic Tables and Two Lamps AMF 503 pedal car in great unre- Excellent display of 45 arrowheads Theme Dial Watch This is an Made out of oak with grain go- stored condition, complete with in walnut collector’s box (blue open face pocket watch. Watch is ing towards the center, includes original bell, stenciling, tires and background). Assortment includes stem/wind & stem/set in excellent masonic emblems that are walnut. hubcaps. Pedal, wheels, steering unique shapes, sizes and composi- running condition. The tables are 24 ½ inches wide are in good working order. Some tion, making a nice presentation of by 27 inches high, and includes a 1908 Waltham 17 Jewel Masonic very minor scratches which do not Native American history. Suitable bottom shelf. Lamps are 13 inches Theme Dial Watch This is an distract from beautiful condition. for any case collection or to mount open face pocket watch with an high, with a gray lamp shade and Marked AMF, Olney, Ill, USA. as beautiful wall display. Alaska silver case. Original enamel light dimmer. Unique and beauti- Donated by Topeka Lodge No. 17 Blue Lodge Shrine Eastern Star dial. Excellent running condition. fully handmade and donated by Boxed Arrowhead Collection Working Tools Meerschaum Pipe. Don Robinette, PGM. 1926 Elgin Octagonal Fancy Open Excellent example of Native Handsome Masonic Pipe that is Personally Face Case Masonic Style Pocket One Soldier’s Story American history, 50 arrowheads unique and quality made. signed by the author, Senator Rob- Watch Movement 17 Jewel in beautifully displayed in a light Donated by Lyn Beyer excellent running condition. Gold ert Dole, directly into the book. By oak colored collector’s box (red An 8-Day and 7-Night Unbeliev- color and crystal glass. Collectors Eastern Press. This is a collector’s background). Suitable for any case able Trip to Maui, Hawaii Lodging timepiece. item that is priceless. Donated by collection or wall mount display. and airfare for two are provided Senator Robert Dole Many hard-to-find sizes and shapes. Antique Limoges France Person- for a trip of a lifetime. From its $250 Retail Premier Design A must for any collector! alized Masonic Shaving Mug heavenly beaches to its scenic natu- Unusual Shaving Mug that is signed Jewelry Donated by Angela ral wonders, there are plenty of T&V Limoges France on the bot- Herrman reasons why Maui has been voted tom in green dated 1892-1907. “Best Island” by readers of A rare find! Conde Nast Traveler for nineteen years. Donated by Mike Tavares $500 Cash Donation Donated by Smithton Lodge No. 1, AF&AM 30 THE KANSAS MASON even bigger and better, and next year’s goal is encouraged to bid generously, since your will- and their families in need, everybody involved to raise $75,000 for the still extremely worthy ingness to do so will help make this event as winds up a winner all the way around, especially cause of helping out the Masons who need it helpful to the deserving Masons who benefit since your contribution is tax deductible. In most. Next year’s auction will feature some from the auction as it can possibly be. But addition, you will further benefit from the ex- new wrinkles, like the offering of a few early how can suitable donation items be chosen? posure of your name to those who attend the items to get all Kansas Masons and Lodges to The best brief answer is that they should be Second Annual Freemason’s Endowment Char- participate, as well as the addition of some things that you yourself find meaningful and ity Auction next March. Donors will be listed valuable, yet are willing to part with—perhaps in the event program, the merchandise you some piece of memorabilia, or something of donate will be on full display at the auction, and larger significance that represents your status as a donor, you’ll be invited to attend the event or career—it’s really up to you, but every- itself, which could easily lead to you meeting Communication’s Crown thing the KMF receives for the auction will be prospective customers—not to mention that online-only items, which even Masons who sim- greatly appreciated. when the bidding starts, you may well discover ply cannot attend have the same chance to win Since you’ll be selling to brother Masons some bargains of your own! as the lucky ones who do, as well as a number and their families, the element of trickery that So why not begin planning to support of onsite silent auction items and at least fif- too often plays a part in non-Masonic online the next Annual Freemason’s Endowment teen highly desirable live auction items. All told, auction offerings will be missing here, and Charity Auction right now—through your every Mason in Kansas will have at least one all involved will strive to provide all bidders, donations, your bids, and if at all possible, way to get involved and participate, via dona- whether online or in person, with things they your presence? It will be here before you tion, bidding or both in the very next Annual will be happy to have won. And since, as already know it, so please start saving the dates of Freemason’s Endowment Charity Auction. discussed, the proceeds go to a very good the 159th Annual Communication today: As bidders, of course, you are strongly cause, serving to make life easier for brothers March 19th -21st, 2015. REVIEW THE LIST BELOW TO LEARN ABOUT THE ITEMS DONATED EARLY, AS A GREAT EXAMPLE AND INSPIRATION FOR DONATION IDEAS Original Handcrafted Gavel Made Set of Four Masonic Knives 4 One Day Passes to the Walnut Dinner with Grand Master and for M:.W:.Michael A. Halleran, by Super collection! W.R. Case & Festival - Donated by Winfield Registration for 2015 Leader- Tony Borum. Donated by M:.W:. Sons Cutlery Co. Includes Leather Lodge #110,AF&AM. The Walnut ship Conference This fun package Michael A. Halleran and Tony Pouch, Tip Can. Made in the U.S.A. Valley Festival was honored in includes dinner for two with Borum Includes Cutlery Display Box, made 1999 by the International Bluegrass the Grand Master on Saturday, in the U.S.A. Frost Cutlery MAS- Custom Made Past Masters Music Association being the first to October 31, one night lodging at 164 - In Search of More Light, Free Apron Hand stitched with gold receive the first ever “IBMA Blue- the Capitol Plaza Hotel in Topeka, bullion thread on lamb skin. This and Accepted Mason, 3 1/2 inch grass Event of the Year” award. Kansas, buffet breakfast for two, gorgeous black and gold apron closed, stainless steel blade, Blue Every 3rd weekend of September registration to the 2015 Leader- will be customized for the winner and White Smooth Bone Handle, annually, it endeavors to produce ship Conference for a Kansas with the name of the Lodge of Masonic Shield, Made in China. “family fare” entertainment on 4 Mason and his Lady. Donated by their choice. Donated by Timothy Frost Cutlery-MAS-165WBW, 3 states simultaneously, a large qual- Daren Kellerman 12 inch closed, High Quality Pol- ity, juried arts and crafts fair, work- Fowler. AF&AM Kansas Art Piece ished Stainless Steel Blade, Nickel shops, and acoustic instrument A unique carved and etched, Set of Fantastic Books Silver Bolsters, Brass Pins and Lin- contests. The festival attendance Ancient Free & Accepted Masons These nine books were written ers, White Blue Smooth Bone with draws 11,000 to 15,000 people of Kansas, emblem art piece. by Carl A. Otto, a Mason of 67 Masonic Shield Handle. annually. Don’t miss this great This piece is framed and enclosed years, who never started writing family event. The festival is located Millennium Mark Masonic Tokens in glass to protect this quality art until after he lost his wife of 54+ in Winfield, Kansas. Donated by years. The books contain many A fantastic collection of Scottish piece. friendship tokens that are Mark Winfield Lodge No. 404, AF&AM true stories about his life as well as A Straight Grain Handmade Tokens that Masonic friends ex- - Rare and unique. many stories of events which have Masonic Knife Briar Pipe with square & compass change and collect. The collection Donated by St. Francis Lodge No. had a profound effect on his way carved on the face. Made by Bob consists of six tokens of the vari- 404, AF&AM of thinking. You will find that he Gilbert a Mason from Denton, ous Masonic Orders. Donated by has a way with words. Texas. Donated by Lyn Beyer James L. Jack, P.M., Secretary, Im- mediate Provincial Grand Master WINTER 2014 31 MAKING A DIFFERENCE By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff
The KMF Announces Charitable Gift Annuities: A GREAT NEW WAY TO GIVE As some of you may have already learned by mail, all the preparations are now complete, and the Kansas Masonic Foundation is happy You can establish to announce a new and even better an annuity with a way to support your Kansas Masonic minimum gift of $10,000. Foundation--Charitable Gift An- The minimum age for a donor to nuities. Please look elsewhere in Lyn E. Beyer, GSW presents check to establish a gift annuity is 65 years or this magazine for a brochure that explains the program in more KMF President Michael A. Tavares at KMF older. This option is most appropriate for Board of Trustees Meeting older beneficiaries who are looking for a detail, and if you’d like to know fixed income payment. KMF follows the more, simply detach and mail the rates established and approved last page of that brochure, which Kansas Mason Raises by The American Council serves as a large postage-free post- $8,500+ for Kansas on Gift Annuities. card, directly to the foundation for even more facts on exactly how well this valuable Masonic Foundation new program can work for you. As the brochure mentions, many find the idea of a fixed income from a charitable gift Lyn Beyer, Grand Senior annuity attractive, but would rather not start getting that income right away. The new KMF Warden, raised more Charitable Gift Annuity is perfect for people like that, since it lets them make a gift imme- than $8,500 for Cancer diately and yet set whatever future date they might like to start receiving the income. Even Research at the Bobbe better, by delaying that income for a year or more, the giver will gain both a higher gift annuity Beyer Memorial Tournament, held Sep- rate and a higher tax deduction. And all the receiver of that income has to do is reach at least tember 10, 2014 at Prairie Highlands Golf 65 years of age when the payments start—it really is that simple. Course in Olathe, Kansas. So please look for the enclosed brochure that came with this issue of The Kansas The tournament is presented annually by Mason and mail in the request for more information right away—or just contact Ms. Diane Cigar and Tabac, Ltd., owned by Lyn Beyer. McDermed at the Kansas Masonic Foundation Office by phone (785-357-7646) or email Called the Golf Classic for its first five years, ([email protected]) to learn more about this exciting new giving opportunity. We’re the tournament’s name was changed this very excited about it here at the KMF, and we know you will be, too. year to the Bobbe Beyer Memorial Tourna- ment, in honor of Bobbe, who lost her fight WHAT BENEFITS DO PROGRAM to brain cancer in February of 2014. PARTICIPANTS GET? 44 golfers played in this, the tourna- ment’s sixth year; the event was sponsored • The satisfaction of supporting only those areas of KMF giving that mean the most to them; by numerous individuals and businesses, and • A fixed lifetime income for as many as two beneficiaries; also featured a live auction to raise additional • Relief from upfront capital gains taxes on gifts of long-term appreciated property; funds, which significantly elevated the final to- • Lower federal estate taxes; tal the Tournament raised. All proceeds will • An immediate charitable income tax deduction; be earmarked by the Kansas Masonic Founda- AND MUCH MORE. tion for the KU Cancer Research Center.
32 THE KANSAS MASON of Lodges that was quick to make great use of this new auction-based fundraising op- portunity, and the attractive three gavel set they contributed to this year’s auction sold soon after it went on sale. Don spoke for many when he had this to say: “The online auction this year was great for us. Our Lodge made a nice chunk of money very easily that we were happy to have for the causes we support, and I’m sure I’m not alone when I say that I hope the Kansas Masonic Founda- tion decides to make this new Lodge auction By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff an annual event. After seeing what other Lodges are doing, I’ve come up with a couple IT’S ALWAYS AUCTION of unique ideas for next year. It’s the biggest ‘no work, easy payout’ fund raiser that we TIME AT THE KMF! could do. I think we will raise $500 to $1,000 The First Annual Kansas Masonic Lodge Online Auction was held from for our Lodge next year, just with the ideas August 15th to September 15th of this year and proved to be a terrific success. that I already have.” And Don’s brother, Dustin Wheeler, A surprising number of items sold almost 380 Semi-Automatic .380 Pistol; a striking Master of Vulcan Lodge, made an important instantly for their Buy It Now! Prices, and and realistic depiction of George Washington addition: “I think this is the best of the many the overall success of the auction was all that Opening a Lodge Meeting; a Pheasant Hunt good ideas that KMF has had. Many Lodges could be hoped for, particularly for the first- For Two; a Set of Amazing Books, written are struggling with funds right now, so this is a ever version of a brand-new Masonic event. by Carl Otto, a Mason of 67 years; a Set of very easy way to generate some much-needed Seventy items were sold from Lodges Solid Native American Walnut money. Several unique items all over the state, with 75% of the proceeds Shelves; a Rare 1952-53 Antique 75% OF THE sold this year that I’m sure from each sale going to the Lodge where it Cabinet-Style “New Home” PROCEEDS FROM generated enough interest originated and 25% going to the new Freema- AHC Sewing Machine with EACH SALE all by themselves to justify GOING TO THE son’s Endowment—a fund kicked off at this accessories; a Bushel Neo-XS making this an annual event, LODGE WHERE IT year’s Annual Communication that exists sole- Golf GPS Rangefinder; a Masonic and I’m sure that even more ORIGINATED AND ly to aid Masons and their wives and children, Knife and Sheath; a wide variety new and intriguing items will 25% GOING TO as well as orphans, in their times of need. of other rare and appealing Ma- appear in the years ahead. As THE NEW Many unique items were made available sonic memorabilia items, a 1920 beautiful as they were, I’m FREEMASON’S during the auction, including these: three sets Beckwith Player Piano that plays surprised that the gavels Kirk ENDOWMENT of four linked, Vintage Theatre Seats, all in everything from gospel to polka Hart made sold so quickly, great condition; a Three Day/Three Night and beyond—and much, much more! which just testifies to how well the auction White Tail Deer Hunt or Goose/Duck hunt; Don Wheeler, Secretary of Vulcan Lodge idea works. Here’s hoping that the KMF and A Guided Tour of Downtown Burlington, (whose wonderful Traveling Gavel was writ- the Grand Lodge can keep their good work hosted by that city’s Mayor; a Baikal IJ-70 ten up in the Summer 2014 issue of The going and continue to make Kansas Masonry (Makarov) Pistol and a Diamond Back DB Kansas Mason), represents one of a number the best that it can be.”
WINTER 2014 33 MEMBER INTERVIEW continued from page 23 brief, I look for education, friendship, and impact on our members and their com- better self-awareness. munities. In our technologically advanced I truly believe that working to understand society, I believe we will need to continue the ritual(s), the Biblical references, and the What do you see as the future to develop and advance our Lodge commu- education—as well as enjoying the fellowship of Freemasonry? nication styles, and maybe even the media and friendship of my Brother Masons—has I believe the future of Freemasonry is type(s) used during our rituals. all been beneficial to me. strong, yet challenged. We are a fraternity
What do you look for when you of men of the highest caliber and values, That said, I believe that Masonry will still attend lodge meetings? who are members of an ancient and storied continue to evolve and prosper in ways that I look for a variety of things; I believe we Brotherhood that is at once ritualistic and help us meet the needs of our members, each get out of a lodge meeting what we secretive, yet built on respect, honor, and both new and old. We will continue to put into it while we are there. I look for brotherly love, despite that mystique. There provide fellowship and Masonic education, education—I always want to learn from the are no other groups that surpass our values, while always remaining highly structured as program or presentation. I strive to leave principles, and worth, both to our Brothers an organization that has always been and still each meeting with a better understanding and to their communities. Yet as a group, we remains veiled in ritual and mystique. of some aspects(s) of Freemasonry and still face the challenges of rising expenses I actually look forward to the opportuni- how Masonic principles and values apply to and declining memberships. We will need ties and challenges that we will face in the my daily life. I look for and cherish the to continually analyze our situation and fully years to come, since I know that it is our fellowship and friendship of my Brethren, understand that we may need to do more very identity and training as Masons that will both at the pre-Lodge dinner at a local pub with less if we are to maintain our fraternity ultimately give us all the tools we need, not and during the meetings themselves. So in and its ability to have a markedly positive only to survive, but to flourish. Kansas Masonic Foundation offers CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITIES
Your Kansas Masonic Foundation has a charitable gift annuity program that has attractive rates and possible tax advantages.
For many people, establishing a fixed income from a charitable gift annuity is a very attractive financial plannnig option. RECEIVE THE BENEFITS OF Fixed lifetime income for up to two beneficiaries. Satisfaction in supporting an area of KMF that is important to you. An immediate charitable income tax deduction. Reduced federal estate taxes.
Kansas Masonic Foundation, Inc. • 785-357-7646 • www.kmfonline.org
34 THE KANSAS MASON LODGE OF RESEARCH By Rick Carver, Shawnee Lodge No. 54 & Inner Quest No. 456
Enabling The Masonic Explorer In All Of Us. Kansas Lodge of Research was established in 1982 to conduct research, gather and preserve Masonic information, supply speakers, and enhance Grand Lodge endeavors to promote Masonic Education. This is the second in a series of articles written for the research lodge and published in Kansas Mason magazine. If you have a topic of interest specific to the in-lodge experience that you would like to see examined here or on which you have already written your findings, please contact us at [email protected] or see our web page at kansasmason.org.
The Plumb, the Level & the Square Examining the Working Tools Knowledge is not power; it is inventory. Knowledge must be applied before it can empower.
As Freemasons advance through the three low Craft. These are the three tools that are
degrees, they are shown representations of commonly used collectively by the Fellow Craft
the Working Tools of Operative Masonry guild to do most of the Operative Work.
that are metaphorically explained as it being Much, but not all, of their Operative
representative of something a Mason should usage is self-evident. We are told the Plumb
do and be in daily life. As Speculative Ma- is used to check upright Work and is to
sons, few of us have an opportunity to apply teach us to deal in an upright manner with
the Working Tools to actual stone, and we others. The Level is used to true horizontal
miss an opportunity to see the Light their Work and serves to remind us that the Level these explanations is somewhat lacking and
Operative uses provide. of Time on which we travel is finite. The is deserving of further investigation.
To explore this, let us first examine the Square is to be used to square the corners three Working Tools used to represent the of Work so each stone will be better made THE PLUMB three principle officers of the Lodge: the able to be Plumb and/or Level. The Square We learn that the Junior Warden is repre-
Plumb, the Level and the Square. It is by no also serves to remind us that we should “be sented by the Plumb and also by the Pillar of
coincidence that these tools are those of a Fel- square” in our dealings with others. Each of continued on page 36
WINTER 2014 35 LODGE OF RESEARCH continued from page 35
Beauty. It is the Tool of Alignment. It further by the use of the Level and the Square. By In Latin, Libra was a balance and from it alludes to Hiram Abiff and the due-guard of aligning the Level upon one leg of the Square came our Level as an instrument by which a the First Degree. It is used to vertically align and rotating it until the registration mark on balance is provided, or by which a horizontal the stone above with the stone below—as the Level is true, the other leg of the Square plane might be proven. It is a tool consisting
Above, so Below. By applying the Plumb to the is Plumb and thus perpendicular to the sur- of a flat horizontal edge with a small ball of stone above the stone below it will show face of the Work to which this combination lead suspended on a string that is allowed leanings or uprightness in construct. of tools is applied. (See fig. 1) to freely move on a pendulum axis. The This substitution of tools teaches us that accuracy of the Level must also be assured when the Beauty of Uprightness and Honesty by calibration, comparison and registration is missing, Masons can rely on Strength and against a known standard. A mark is then
Wisdom to provide a solution so the Work engraved noting the exact point where the can continue in harmony. string shows a perfectly level surface. Other marks may also be applied that represent the THE LEVEL amount of error from True Level, but they The Senior Warden is represented by the are only for reference and convenience and Level and also by the Pillar of Strength. It is are thus superfluous. Fig.i further emblematic of Equality, Hiram King When the Level (Senior Warden) is miss-
The word Plumb is from the Latin of Tyre and the due-guard of the Third De- ing, Masons (the Lodge) can recreate it by the
Plumbum, meaning lead. It is a tool consist- gree. It is used to prove Horizontals. These use of the Plumb and the Square. By aligning ing of one or more vertical flat edges with a Horizontals are the foundation to which the Plumb upon one leg of the Square and small ball of lead suspended on a string that the equality between Masons and others rotating it until the registration mark on the is allowed to freely move on a pendulum may occur in fairness. As the Level, a Mason Plumb is true, the other leg of the Square is axis. The accuracy of the Plumb is not self- must bring all his parts into balance to assure Level and thus parallel to the surface of the reliant and must be assured by calibration, Equality. Work to which this combination of tools is comparison and registration against a known applied. (See fig. ii) standard. A mark is then engraved noting This substitution of tools teaches us that the exact position where the string shows when the Strength of Fairness and Equality a perfect perpendicular. Other marks may are missing, Masons can rely on Beauty and also be applied that represent the amount Wisdom to manifest a solution so the Work of error from True Plumb, but they are only can continue in harmony. for reference and convenience and are thus This exercise proves the harmony of The superfluous. Three yet exists when only two are present. When the Plumb (Junior Warden) is It further dovetails with our Grand Lodge Fig.ii missing, Masons (the Lodge) can recreate it By-Laws that stipulate which Lodge Officers
36 THE KANSAS MASON must be present in order to conduct a regu- of Water and Fire. Add them into our draw- lar and proper Stated Communication. ing, each at the appropriate juncture of the Elements that form them. (See fig. vi) FIRE AIR THE SQUARE This leaves the zenith of the circle where The Square is an emblem of Morality and is Air meets Fire to yet have a wage defined. representative of the Worshipful Master, the WATER EARTH Classical Alchemy tells us that the composite Pillar of Wisdom, King Solomon and the due- of these two elements results in a crystal guard of the Second Degree. It also alludes or salt. History tells us that salt was often Fig.v to the esoteric, and may be linked to reveal- used as currency (payment) in ancient times ing the secret of the Master’s Wages.† often used as a “key” to the esoteric. Add and was regarded to be of great value as a them into our quartered circle. (See fig. v) preserving agent. Salt made it possible to We have learned that the Wages of preserve food for longer periods of time, as
the Fellow Craft are Corn, Wine and Oil. would be necessary to allow travel. I propose
These wages would allow a man to sustain for your consideration that in addition to
himself in meager comfort, but little more. Corn, Wine and Oil, the Master’s Wage was Fig.iv Yet, it is said that the Master’s Wage is paid in Salt.
How many times have we sat in Lodge such that it grants him excess whereby he Still not convinced? How about this: salt and heard the Square defined as an angle is able to travel and to contribute to the originates from the Latin root sāl of which of 90 degrees and the forth part of a circle? relief of others. formed the word salary, which literally means
The angle of 90 degrees portion seems fairly Alchemists chronicled Corn as the com- “continued wages.” self-evident, but why would someone choose posite of Air and Earth, Wine the composite While the Plumb and Level are quite to define a right angle using a circle? The of Earth and Water, and Oil the composite similar, the Square stands alone in both answer becomes a bit more apparent when uniqueness and in its difficulty to replicate in it is drawn. another form. A proper and Perfect Square
Begin by drawing a circle and dividing requires no calibration or registration it into 4 equal parts. (See fig.iv) marks. Once proven accurate, a The ancient Alchemists be- FIRE AIR Perfect Square remains so without lieved that all things abounded further interpretation. Many rep- from four elements—the Clas- OIL CORN resentations of Masonic Squares sical Elements: Earth, Wind, Fire WATER EARTH contain various scales of measure and Air. They believed all things applied to the legs, but these are were one of these elements alone as of convenience to the craftsman or resulted from a combination or com- and are not integral to the ability of the posite of them. These Classical Elements are WINE Fig.vi continued on page 38
WINTER 2014 37 LODGE OF RESEARCH continued from page 37
Square to prove an angle of 90°. (See fig, vii) and the Level. By aligning the Plumb across The modern Square is often oblong and one leg of the Level and rotating it until both may have varying widths of each leg. When registration marks are true, a Square is mani- the Apprentice has not done The Work, fest. (See fig, ix) he is like this Oblong Square. Apprentice This provides a poor, time consuming Work trues your Square, sets your Plumb substitute and serves to further emphasize and lengthens your Level. Only when he has the need for the presence of a strong Wor- done The Work of the first two Degrees will shipful Master. This substitute tool serves Fig.vii he become the Perfect Square. (See fig, viii) to teach us that when Wisdom appears to When the Square (Worshipful Master) be missing, Masons can rely on Beauty and
is missing, Masons (the Lodge) can create a Strength to provide a solution so the Work representation of it by the use of the Plumb can continue in harmony.
Fig.viii
Fig.ix
About The Author Rick Carver is the Past Master of Inner Quest Lodge 456 (Traditional Observance) and current Secretary and perpetual life member of Shawnee Lodge 54. He is also a member of Scottish Rite, York Rite, Kansas Lodge of Research and several other Masonic organizations. You can read some other works by Brother Carver on the Inner Quest Lodge web site at innerquest456.org.
Acknowledgement The author would like to again thank Dr. John S. Nagy and his books Building Hiram and Building Perpends for his many contributions, inspira- tion and guidance in this endeavor.
†Please note the use of the word may in this statement. It is my intent to provide a plausible and logical definition of a Master’s Wage, how- ever it is the opinion of this author only and it is not approved, sanctioned or recognized by The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Kansas or any other Masonic order.
38 THE KANSAS MASON HOME WARMINGS Celebrating Our Accomplishments Along the Way By Matthew Bogner, CEO, Kansas Masonic Home
As we celebrate the opening of our first long renovation will be complete! of countless individu- term care household, I thought it would be I would like to thank those of you who als that will call KMH a good time to reflect on the past and how have helped to make this dream a reality. their home. far we have come in our effort to provide Your financial support and moral support I will leave you with a true story that oc- true home to residents at Kansas Masonic have been instrumental in achieving this curred last week at KMH. I was on my way to Home. The Pavilion Healthcare Center vision. I also wrote a special letter of thanks check on residents and staff members in the has always been the heart and soul of the to our staff members recently who have new household and a family member caught project. Six years ago, our planning process worked through the construction process. me in the hall. He told me that his loved one started specifically as a way to transform the As you can imagine, it is difficult to work in a always talks about visits back “home” to their institutional physical environment as well as physical environment that is being dramati- house in the outside community. They go the internal way care is provided. By partner- cally transformed. Harder still has been the on these outings occasionally to enjoy the ing with national consultants, residents, staff internal transformation of positions, duties, feel, scent and comfort of home… but must members and family members our dreams systems and decision making processes always return back here in the end. However, quickly incorporated plans for the assisted in an attempt to return resident choice, upon moving into the new Victorian house living Towers and Manor as well. We also autonomy and self determination. However, the conversation abruptly changed. For the added a rapid recovery household for short all of this hard work has improved the lives first time his loved one turned to him and term therapy residents. For me, the past said, “Should we go to your six years seemed to move slowly at times home today or should we as we secured financing, finished planning stay at my home?” Between and prepared for construction to begin. It is you and me, that is what we somewhat surreal to think that by the end of have been working for all of the first quarter next year our campus-wide these years. It seems simple and it is simple… but difficult All of you who to achieve. All of you who have supported our have supported our trans- transformation have formation have contributed contributed to this new to this new feeling of peace, security and sanctuary. You FEELING OF should be proud in know- ing that you have achieved PEACE, something far greater than yourself. You should also SECURITY AND know that each time a com- SANCTUARY. munity like ours transforms it pushes others to transform as well. Hopefully some day, all communities serving seniors will become true home.
WINTER 2014 39 HOME WARNINGS CREDIT Kansas Department of Commerce TAX CREDIT Program By Kansas Masonic Home Staff
Kansas Masonic Home (KMH) has been selected as a recipient of the Kansas Department of Commerce (KDOC) Tax Credit Program for 2013-2014. The KDOC Tax Credit Program provides significant benefits to donors. In short, donors receive a state tax credit in return for a gift to KMH.
Tax Credit Example HOW IT WORKS? Married, Joint return You make a “Tax Deductable” (Federal Tax not State) Federal income taxes contribution to the eligible 501 (C) 3 non-profit. Income 50,000 100,000 200,000 400,000 The State of Kansas does not provide a deduction for Other itemized deductions 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 State taxes 1,711 4,740 10,799 22,918 charitable contributions. Contribution 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 The federal government does provide a deduction Total deduction 14,711 17,740 23,799 35,918 for charitable contributions. Taxable income 35,289 82,260 176,201 364,082
Your individual deduction is based upon your annual Marginal tax rate 15% 25% 28% 35% income and other factors. Federal tax 5,293 20,565 49,336 127,429
The non-profit provides you with a state tax credit Tax benefit of contribution 150 250 280 350 for 50% of the amount of your gift. at marginal tax rate
YOU FILE THAT TAX CREDIT ON State income taxes YOUR STATE INCOME TAX RETURN. Federal taxable income 35,289 82,260 176,201 364,082 If your total credit is more than you owe then you Add back Contribution deduction 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 receive a refund for the difference. State taxable income 36,289 83,260 177,201 365,082
Simple Example State marginal rate 6.45% 6.45% 6.45% 6.45%
You make a $1,000 contribution to Kansas Masonic Home. State tax 2,341 5,370 11,429 23,548
You receive a standard federal deduction of $300 State credit for CSP contribution 500 500 500 500
(based on your annual income and other factors). Net taxes due 1,841 4,870 10,929 23,048
You receive a 50% credit of $500 towards your Contribution amount 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000
Kansas tax liability. Tax benefit of Federal deduction 150 250 280 350
Your out of pocket expense equals approximately $200. Less: Loss of Federal deduction (75) (125) (140) (175) at Marginal Federal rate Simply stated: $1,000 - $300 (federal) - $500 (state) = $200 Tax credit for Kansas 500 500 500 500 (out of pocket). Less: Loss of Kansas deduction (65) (65) (65) (65) at Kansas tax rate
DISCLAIMER: Kansas Masonic Home is not a tax advising Total tax benefits 511 561 576 611 entity. The information in this document was prepared by Kansas Masonic Home. Prior to making any tax decisions Net out of pocket 490 440 425 390 we encourage you to consult a tax advisor to ensure your potential benefits from this program.
For more information please contact Robert Roswurm at (316) 269-7513 or [email protected]
40 THE KANSAS MASON HOME WARNINGS
Kansas Department of Commerce Kansas Masonic Home Award Winners! By Kansas Masonic Home Staff TAX CREDIT Program I’m pleased to announce that two Kansas Masonic Home staff members By Kansas Masonic Home Staff have won LeadingAge Kansas Quality First Awards of Excellence. LeadingAge Kansas is an association of over 160 not-for-profit aging services providers dedicated to serving the needs of aging Kansans.
They advance policies and promote practices able to express choice and practice that empower members to help seniors live self-determination in meaningful ways fully as they age. LeadingAge Kansas mem- at every level of daily life. Culture bers serve over 20,000 seniors in Kansas change transformation requires changes each day. Each year the association selects in organizational practices, physical the best leaders and programs from among environments, relationships at all levels their membership and awards them based on and workforce models. Over the past eleven categories. We are honored to have six years David has helped to lead the won two of these awards this year! $22 million household model renovation Director of Building Services, David at KMH based on these culture change Shuman, has won a Lifetime Achievement principles. In addition to his experience Award for his 26 years of service at KMH with physical redesign, he has also spent and culture change leadership. David was weeks training with national consultants just 21 years old and fresh out of heating about internal system changes and has Top: David Shuman, Director of Building and air conditioning school when a friend attended out of state intensives as well. As Service won the Lifetime Achievement Award recommended him for an entry level job on David has helped to refine the latest in house- for his 26 years of service at KMH the maintenance crew of KMH. He got the hold model design, other culture change lead- Bottom: Anne Edmiston Wellness Director won an Excellence in Innovation Award for job and spent most of his early days crawling ers have come to tour our households and her wellness programming through tiny tunnels that house the campus learn from him as well. David’s mentorship of water and electrical lines. David quickly other leaders is a testament to his experience counseling in a one-on-one person-centered distinguished himself as a leader among his and dedication to improving the way elders relationship. It is within the bounds of this peers and a few years later he was promoted are cared for throughout the nation. relationship that residents and the Wellness to Director of Building Services. David has Wellness Director, Anne Edmiston, has Director work together to assess their over- impacted the field of aging services through also won an Excellence in Innovation Award all personal wellness. This includes identifying his culture change advocacy. According to for her wellness programming. This award risk areas, developing a plan to address those the Pioneer Network, “culture change” is the honors individuals whose innovative pro- risk areas and working together to accom- common name given to the national move- grams and services focus on improved quality plish goals set by the residents themselves. ment for the transformation of older adult of life and quality of care for elders. The Anne and David will receive their awards services, based on person-directed values Kansas Masonic Home “Wellness Connec- at the LeadingAge Kansas Fall Conference in and practices. Culture change transforma- tions” program provides a comprehensive Manhattan, Kansas in early October. Please tion supports the creation of both long approach to encouraging healthy lifestyles help me to congratulate both David and and short-term living environments where for KMH residents. The program combines Anne on their well deserved awards in the both older adults and their caregivers are personal fitness training with basic nutrition weeks ahead!
WINTER 2014 41 BOOK REVIEW By Robert G. Davis, 33°, G.C., Guthrie, Oklahoma The Bridge Builder’s Guide Tutorial for exploring the truths and philosophies of our great work
One can never have too many resources enlightenment. Brother Ferlemann offers us when it comes to interpreting the lessons an excellent tutorial for exploring the truths embedded within the degrees of the Scottish and philosophies of our great work. Rite. There are so many lessons. The Scottish Separating Masonic study into its three Rite is not called the college course in Free- essential components of ceremonial art, masonry because it has imposing temples social engineering, and symbolic interpreta- scattered about the urban landscape. It is an tion is nothing short of brilliant. One has to advanced field of Masonic study. There are know what truth is before he can approach many lessons to be learned. It is a course in a meaningful study of its nature. He has to principles and situational ethics, comparative understand the personal, social, and political religion, the ancient mysteries, the traditions messages the Rite conveys to decipher the of manhood, and the psychology of being. true nature of liberty. He has to have a grasp Like any other knowledge tradition, the value of the major themes and characters present- one gains from its lessons expands dramati- ed in the Degrees to interpret the applica- cally as these are applied in life. The Scottish tions its ceremonial forms has to him. Rite, more than any other fraternal discipline, This study offers the student much focuses on the nature of freedom: individual, foundational information for interpreting the IT PLACES EACH OF US, religious, political, and spiritual liberty. The major elements of Scottish Rite philosophy. moral, social, and spiritual development of It provides an important framework for a AS THE CENTRAL the individual is the foundational criteria for more efficient and meaningful exploration CHARACTERS IN ITS DEGREES, freedom. Thus, the importance of the Rite of the nature of freedom. It helps bridge the ON THE PATH TO should never be taken for granted. gap between the philosophy of ideas and The Bridge Builder’s Guide is an apt name real world application. It places each of us, as IMPROVE OURSELVES for the textual path this book offers the the central characters in its Degrees, on the AND THE WORLD student of Masonry. It recognizes one of the path to improve ourselves and the world in greatest challenges the new Scottish Rite Ma- which we live. IN WHICH WE LIVE. son encounters: how one goes about study- It is my pleasure to welcome you on ing and thinking about the Degrees of the Brother Ferlemann’s enjoyable journey from Rite when he has only an occasional oppor- whence we came to wither we are travelling. tunity to observe them. Informational bridges I can assure you it is a bridge worth crossing. are needed to connect the Mason to the major themes presented in the Rite to help him on his individual path of study toward
42 THE KANSAS MASON OUT AND ABOUT By James A. Marples, Mulvane Lodge No. 201
The Honeybee as a Symbol of Bible, the Square, and the Compasses. It is Virtuous Masonic Industry and Ethics essential we retain and teach our symbol- ism to future generations, since a band of Selected excerpts from Marples’s friends and Brothers can accomplish many Freemasonry, in its capacity as a fraternity as a symbol of Industry. He notes that new more good deeds than a single individual of “Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons,” Masons are taught that Master Masons work can do alone in this world. has createdvarious symbols, designed to so that they “may receive their wages, the remind the Mason—inside and outside of better to support {themselves} and family, About the Author: the Lodge—of his duties to himself and to and contribute to the relief of worthy dis- Brother James A. Marples is a Perpetual Life mankind. Engaging in noble and industrious tressed Brother Master Masons, and {their} Member of Mulvane Masonic Lodge No. 201, endeavors is but one example. Most of the widows, and orphans”…. A.F. & A.M., in Mulvane, Kansas (not to mention symbols are architectural working-tools, Using an analogy, groups of hard-working his numerous other Masonic memberships and such as the Level, Plumb, Square, Gavel, and men who are Masons could be likened to titles). He knows more of interest about the other miscellaneous tools used by ancient “bees.” While a Masonic Lodge is essentially history of honeybees’ profound links to Masonry stonemasons as literal tools {as described the group of men themselves—actually, in than we were able to include here, but he had in The Holy Bible and other holy writs}, but bygone times, large Masonic Halls were built the good fortune of personally presenting Sena- now also employed as metaphors or inserted to accommodate the conferral of Degrees tor Bob Dole with a hard copy of his complete as honorable symbolic signs and symbols, and other activities, as a known “hub of thoughts on the subject at the VFW Hall in used by modern Speculative Freemasons to activity,” quite similar to a “Bee-Hive.” Minneapolis, Kansas, just days before sharing illustrate“more noble and glorious purposes” Various flowers such as the Sunflower are them with our readers. We sincerely thank him befitting a moral code of conduct, in our pollinated by honeybees. The State of Kansas for this enlightening submission—and hope that modern world. is known as “the Sunflower State”. Further- other Masons will consider submitting articles Oddly enough, “the Beehive” doesn’t fit more, Sunflower Masonic Lodge No. 86 is for publication in The Kansas Mason. the category of an architectural working- located in Wichita, Kansas. In Nebraska, the tool—yet it has a prominent place in Masonic Sandhills have been another prime growing allegory and symbolism….The noted Ma- region for Sunflowers, which are a beautiful sonic scholar, Dr. Albert G. Mackey, M.D., 33º crop to see growing in the fields, but culti- and a Knight Templar, notes that the Beehive vated for their seeds and oils. The delicate was, among the ancient Egyptians, the symbol balance of abundant light and adequate of an obedient people. Of all the insects, the moisture is precisely what sunflowers need image of bees buzzing around a beehive was to survive. Yet, without bees and pollinators, seen as the sign of “regulated behavior, when those plants are similarly dependent. congregated in their hive.” He also notes that Regardless of where Masons meet, act, Freemasonry likewise adopted the Beehive and part, I would hope that we always keep the symbolism of “The Beehive” in our hearts and minds. The “Three Great Lights of Masonry” are described as The Holy
WINTER 2014 43 OUT AND ABOUT By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff Golden Rule Lodge No. 90: Giving Old Gold a New Gleam
When he made one of his trademark pleted side by side with Matt Gray, with the surprise visits to Kansas Lodges last sum- assistance of Dwight Rumple, who serves as mer, M.W. Michael Halleran was surprised the current Secretary of the Lodge. Our re- to discover a full house at Golden Rule No. spective skill sets in remodeling and finance 90, even though none of the Brothers in at- met the varied requirements of the project. tendance had known that the Grand Master I should note that Matt is in his first year would appear. So what was causing enough as a Master Mason. Chris James and Kevin extra excitement to catch the attention of Kesler also helped on the heavy lifting days.” even the Grand Master? So from the very start, the Lodge-wide In a word, voting. A vote was being held goal was to intensify its members’ Masonic that evening that would decide if the Lodge experience by making the physical environ- went forward with a striking new plan, ment of the Golden Rule Lodge Room as namely, to renovate and improve its Lodge conducive to that goal as possible, and key building, which was already in good shape, members drew on their areas of maxi- in response to the vision of a way to enrich mum expertise to help make the dream a Masonry that was both old and new at once. reality. The overall goal was to modernize The Senior Warden of Golden Rule No. 90, the Lodge room, by making unobtrusive Kyle Ferlemann, expressed the shared vision use of the likes of LED lighting and hidden that drove the project this way: “We knew if speakers, the latter capable of handling an This strategic reanimation entailed, we could create something that looked Ma- orchestral range of sound, while still giving among other things, purchasing 51 new oak sonic and struck a chord, we could give our the finished room the patina of a bygone chairs (the number dictated by what the members an enriched Masonic experience.” age, circa the late 19th to the early 20th room can hold), which were custom made to As Kyle further explained, a factor centuries. By making skillful use of the best fit both the available space and the physical that went far towards making the project of modern technology, such unseen innova- requirements of the Lodge members, while a reality was that this specific remodeling tions could help create a heightened version also embodying the same new-made-old vi- vision was shared by the Lodge as a whole, of a more traditional look. sual aesthetic that informs the entire project. not just by a few members: “I had the time this summer and generous gifts from our members, both living and those who had remembered us in their wills, which helped make the vision a possibility. This work was begun at the pleasure of the Worship- ful Master, Jay Hurst, with the enthusiastic consent of the Lodge. “I absolutely could not have done this alone. A majority of the work was com- Before
44 THE KANSAS MASON Kyle did considerable research on the kinds artist, who was willing to create valuable real ing touches, the work is now complete. In of décor that Lodge Rooms feature, which paintings directly on the walls of the Lodge 1953, a flood hit the Golden Rule facilities led to the distinctive style that Golden Rule itself, in place of the evocative posters that downtown. The Lodge then met in a school ultimately chose—an intelligently conceived had served the purpose before that time. By for a number of years, before moving to the and eclectic pastiche of some of the most negotiating a deal wherein she deferred her present facility in 1988—and time, as always, attractive aspects of both the Old English up-front charges in return for the chance to continues to fly by, leaving the past farther and Egyptian/Sumerian influences that tend sell prints of her work later, the Lodge saved behind with each passing moment. to characterize most Lodge Rooms. An enabling aspect of the project was the “We knew if we could create something that way the Lodge overlooked no opportunity looked Masonic and struck a chord, we could give to minimize costs without sacrificing quality. our members an enriched Masonic experience.” All told, over $14,000 was saved through the likes of discounts and donated labor, and thousands of dollars, while still getting the But regardless of what the calendar may when all such related savings are added in, very kinds of artistic improvements that their say, the Brothers of Golden Rule Lodge the Lodge got a $75,000 renovation complet- quest for targeted improvement demanded. No. 90 know that thanks to their own bold ed for about half that sum. One key to that The first meeting was held in the newly and proactive action, they have never been triumph of fiscal conservatism in action was refurbished Lodge on September 11th of closer to what is most golden in their shared the kind of deal the Lodge struck with a local this year. With the exception of a few finish- Masonic past than they are right now.
WINTER 2014 45 OUT AND ABOUT By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff
Gilead Lodge No. 144 USD 366 YATES CENTER Follow Gilead Lodge’s Lead — Essay Contest for Students—the Lodge Gives out Two $100 Cash Awards Help Put Masonry on the Map The Lodge Presents a $500 Scholarship Annually Donates to the After Prom Party Along with a great deal of other valuable Donates to the Art Department Fundraiser information (as reported elsewhere in this is- The Lodge Sends a Music Student to the Masonic Band Camp Associated sue), this startling fact emerges from the new with the Kansas Shrine Bowl Kansas Masonic Foundation General Popula- The Lodge Takes the 3rd Grade Class to a Movie at Christmas tion Survey: The Lodge Purchases Materials with the Woodson County Sheriff ’s “Even though all respondents have heard department for the D.A.R.E. Program of the Masons, over six in ten (62%) do not Our Lodge Cooks the Steaks for the Junior Senior Banquets know if there is a Masonic Lodge in their com- munity, or how the Masons’ contributions to their community compare to other organiza- COMMUNITY Adopt a Child for Christmas Through the Chamber of Commerce tions (66%); 18% of respondents feel that (8 Children in 2013) Masons contribute about the same amount to Purchase Livestock Premiums for the Woodson County Fair their community as other organizations.” Sponsor and conduct the “Trunk or Treat” Halloween Party for the As Masons know, they quite often con- Woodson County Chamber of Commerce tribute more to their respective communi- Woodson County Resource Council—Persons in Need ties than virtually any other single group. Friends for Life—Cancer Victims Assistance The only problem, as the quotation above Alzheimer’s Program—for Allen County highlights, is that those around them—and HOFNOD—Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs sometimes even those whom they benefit the most—do not begin to know how much The members of our Lodge mow and clean up the city Fishing Pond for the Kids Fishing Derby and cook hotdogs for the kids on the day of the event. Masons really do. Over the past five years, we have poured a slab, erected a shelter house, As the enlightening survey cited above and installed picnic tables, with a ramp and rails at this city-owned pond. also demonstrates, unless they are somehow Our Lodge Provides a Teddy Bear Project for new mothers, administered prompted, 91% of Kansans “are not aware by the County Health Nurse of any programs/funding contributions” that Our Lodge prepares, repairs, assembles, and maintains the Christmas Kansas Masons provide in the state (emphasis Display for the Courthouse Lawn added). And even when aided, the contribu- As a Lodge and individually, we contribute to the Kansas Masonic Home, tions that people were most frequently aware the KU Oncology Program, the Kansas Masonic Foundation, and Shrine Hospitals for Children of, local charity work through Lodges and the East-West Shrine Bowl, were correctly identi- munities. One such Lodge is Gilead Lodge do so much to serve know something about fied by only 16% and 14%, respectively. It’s no No. 144 in Yates Center. They have created whom to credit for it. Above, just to provide wonder, then, that people too often fail to see a flyer to be shared with contributors that what is hoped will be a helpful example, are the true value of Masonry and Masonic ideals, brings anyone who sees it up to speed on all the activities spotlighted on that flyer. when they know so precious little about what If your lodge has ideas on innovative ways to that Gilead Lodge does on an ongoing basis it is that Masons really do. share with the public about how to make the to make the Yates Center area a better place, Happily, however, some Lodges across good Masons routinely do better known about, the state had already started taking proactive and as such, it represents exactly the kind of so Masonic light isn’t hidden under a bushel in steps in their communities to help remedy move that Masons all over Kansas need to be local communities, please submit it for possible the public’s lack of knowledge in their com- making, just to be sure that the people they future use in The Kansas Mason.
46 THE KANSAS MASON Woodson Lodge No. 121, By Warren Farr previously contacted the Area Hunts for Future Hunters Conservation Officer—not to mention the Region 5 Office of A small Lodge in Southeast Kansas, composed Kansas Department of Wildlife, of only 50 members, has recently discovered Parks, and Tourism (KDWPT) in a new activity that has produced extraordi- Chanute—about possible early nary results. Woodson Lodge No. 121 is located in spring dates to have Hunter Edu- Toronto, Kansas, population 262, nestled in cation classes on Friday evenings the rolling hills of the Verdigris River Valley, and Saturdays. just two miles from the Toronto Reservoir Further research indicated that State Park and Wildlife Area, and thirteen the Lodge Room could easily and miles from Fall River Reservoir State Park safely accommodate up to 35 stu- and Wildlife Area. Both of these natural areas dents, accompanied by one adult opportunity to assemble directly outside provide numerous outdoor activities, most per student. Due to the lack of adequate Toronto just after Saturday afternoon testing notably hunting and fishing. As most of us are restaurant facilities in Toronto capable of aware, to hunt legally in the Sunflower State, and certification for the purpose of receiving serving such a large group, and due also to Kansas hunting regulations stipulate that indi- further instruction from KDWPT Instructors, one of the Lodge members owning a large viduals born during or after July of 1957 must with regards to the safe handling of many charcoal-fired grille that the Lodge had used complete a course in Hunter Education from types of hunting equipment, as well to get on many occasions, the Brethren suggested a licensed and certified instructor—and be hands-on experience in safely shooting differ- able to produce a certificate proving as much that they could prepare Saturday lunch for all ent calibers of firearms, including instruction upon request—whenever asked to do those in attendance each week. Snacks and drinks in shooting clay targets, proper deer stand who oversee and enforce our wild game laws. would be provided by them as well, all at a techniques, the right way to cross obstacles During the January 2012 meeting of minimal cost to the Lodge, which, of course, with equipment, and bow safety. This was Woodson Lodge, WM Brother Larry Hib- is a non-profit venture. This exciting plan was all made possible by the landowner, a Lodge bard, a lifetime resident of the area, long approved unanimously, and WM Hibbard brother, on property located adjacent to involved with hunting activities and recogniz- authorized all involved to make the necessary Toronto. Attendees have been enthusiastic ing the need for area youth, as well as those arrangements right away. in their praise, and comments like this have living in surrounding communities, to obtain In brief, the classes have been a terrific been typical: “We weren’t aware that Masons Hunter Education, presented a plan to the success ever since, thanks to the hard work did things like this. Of all the different places Brethren that would enable such classes to of all involved. Many classes, often filled to in all of Region 5 where they host Hunter be conducted at the Lodge location. He had capacity, have already been held, and more Education, you’re the only ones who do so are already scheduled much for the kids. Thank you so much. What for the spring. Attend- a great group of guys!” ees have had the added So mote it be.
WINTER 2014 47 EVENT CALENDAR October 19 November 20 February 15 March 19 Area 8 Meeting – Table Lodge – Early-Bird Registration Deadline Annual Communication McPherson Lodge No. 172 Parker Lodge No. 341 for 2014 Annual Communication Welcome Reception – Topeka October 25 November 23 February 22 March 20 & 21 150 year re-dedication of 100 Year Re-Dedication of 125 Year Re-Dedication of Ben Hur Grand Lodge Emporia Lodge No. 12 King Solomon Lodge No. 10 – Lodge No. 322 – Kansas City Annual Communication – Topeka Leavenworth November 1 February 28 March 20 Leadership Academy – Topeka December 1 Submission Deadline for Lodges All-Masonic Banquet, Auction 2014 State Masonic Public School Interested in 2015-16 Cancer & Entertainment – Topeka November 1 Essay Contest Submission Deadline Screening Clinics Kansas Lodge of Research General May 31 Membership Meeting – Topeka December 27 March 15 Kansas Masonic Foundation (Blind Tiger restaurant) St. John’s Day Last Day for Regular Registration 2015-16 Scholarship for 2014 Annual Communication Submission Deadline November 15 December 28 Area 1 Meeting – Kansas Mason Submission Deadline March 18 July 21-25 Hiawatha Lodge No. 35 for Spring Edition Kansas Masonic Foundation Board Kansas Masonic All-State of Trustees Meeting – Topeka Marching Band Camp – Hays November 15 January 1 Masonic Pheasant Hunt – Hill City Kansas Masonic Foundation March 19 July 25 2015-16 Scholarship Kansas Masonic Lodge East-West Shrine Bowl – Hays Submission Opens Online Luncheon & Seminar – Topeka
For more detailed and up-to-date information, please check the Grand Lodge website calendar at KansasMason.org The Kansas Mason is now on Flickr. Upload and share your Kansas Mason photos at www.flickr.com/groups/kansasmason/
Get on the Grand Lodge 2015 calendar NOW! PLANNING FOR 2015 AND 2016 IS CURRENTLY UNDERWAY.
To publicize your Lodge event statewide or have the Grand Master or other Grand Lodge Officers attend your event by including it on the Kansas Mason calender. PLAN NOW! [email protected] 48 THE KANSAS MASON ASKED AND ANSWERED By Nolan Sump, Salina Lodge No. 60, Cawker City Lodge No. 125 & Oketo Lodge No. 25
QUESTION: the Renaissance. One In the Third Degre lecture, there is men- can infer its importance tion of the 47th problem of Euclid. This is in establishing a firm important in Freemasonry for teaching that base in the formation Masons should be of good moral repute of both Operative and and to stand upright in the world. What Speculative Masonic is the origin of Euclid and his triangle, and lodges, until finally, the how did this come to appear in a Third United Grand Lodge of Degre lecture? England was formed in — Brad Eichelberger, Oketo Lodge No. 25 1717. With the creation of lectures and ciphers Euclid James Anderson Answer: for Masonic initiatory To answer this we must consider who Euclid work, Euclid’s Elements found a voice in a ris- infinite in nature and beyond, we can come was and his relation with the Pythagoreans. ing fraternity. closer to perfection in our hearts and minds, Euclid was a Greek mathematician who in 300 But if the idea of the 47th Problem of just like the perfection of the angles of the BC wrote a series of books on number theory Euclid was so fascinating, why didn’t our lines in Euclid’s problem. called Elements, considered to be the first ge- Masonic forefathers choose any of the 46 ometry textbook. In it he took ideas from the that preceded it? The answer lies in the text Pythagoreans from 200 years before and filled of the books Euclid wrote. Elements actually QUESTION: it with definitions, theorems, propositions and consisted of about 12 volumes; Book 1 ended I’ve read Anderson’s Constitutions and their proofs. One such theorem was one his- with the Pythagorean Theorem, which was a while I find it a good introduction to early- torian’s attribute to Pythagoras—the Pythago- culmination of all the parts that led up to this day Freemasonry, could you tell me more rean Theorem, which states the third side of theorem. Taking a Masonic perspective, a par- about this man who wrote the document? a triangle, considered the hypotenuse, is equal allel can be seen then with the two degrees — A Brother from the northeast corner to the sum of the square of the other two leading up to the final initiatory experience sides. An important theorem indeed, for it in the Master Mason degree. At the end of Answer: established the foundation of constructing any the initiate’s journey, he learns about the 47th To answer your question, I conducted some building. With this theorem, all buildings could problem of Euclid, which itself was at the end research and found an article called “James be built plumb and level. In roof construction, of Book 1. Consider also 17th century phi- Anderson: Man and Mason,” written by David this theorem proved to be invaluable. To look losopher Benedict Spinoza, who took Euclid’s Stevenson, in Heredom, a publication of the at two sides of a roof of a temple from the works and attached his moral philosophy to Scottish Rite Research Society. Published front of it, one can see the two hypotenuses. Euclid’s 47th Problem by stating, “The human in 2002, much of the information provided So influential was Euclid’s Elements that mind has an adequate knowledge of the eter- comes from his work. As you know, James it was set in type in Venice in 1482 and soon nal and infinite essence of God.” Being guided became the second most published book in by reason and opening one’s mind to the continued on page 50
About Nolan Sump: Nolan Sump is a gifted facilitator for Hiawatha USD 415 and lives in Blue Rapids with his wife Monica. Ten years ago, Nolan was raised as a Master Mason in Salina Lodge No. 60. Since then, he has served as Worshipful Master of Cawker City No. 125 and is now the Master of Oketo No. 25. He is the current District Deputy Grand Master of District No. 21. In addition, Nolan serves on the Grand Lodge Public Schools Committee. You can contact Nolan with your questions at [email protected]
WINTER 2014 49 ASKED AND ANSWERED continued from page 49
Anderson was the author of Constitutions, it While he preached, he developed a taste He finished it, presented it to Grand Lodge, being published in 1723. He was born in 1680 for genealogical research, later publishing and in 1723, Anderson’s Constitutions became and raised in Aberdeen, Scotland. His father, works on some of the lineage of certain no- the foremost authority on Freemasonry. It of- a glazier, was presumed to be a Freemason blemen in the London area. During this time, fered a historical narrative, a code of conduct, as well. Anderson had an interest in becom- four lodges had merged together in 1717 to and rules and regulations necessary for lodges ing a minister and at the time, faced scrutiny form the United Grand Lodge of England. to function. While the historical sketch of the being a Presbyterian in a time divided by two Whereas in the recent past, lodges had merely origins of Freemasonry in was much more churches; that of Presbyterianism in Scotland been social clubs for the sake of enjoyment legend than fact, it was that linear history and Episcopalian in England. He was seen as a of others’ company, the new Grand Lodge Anderson utilized which gave him credence non-conformist as he studied for the ministry. wanted to go in a different direction. By 1721, to accomplish other more historically accurate Upon ordination as a minister in the Church Anderson became the focus of Past Grand works later in his life. So popular was his of Scotland in 1707, he moved to London and Master John Desaugliers and then current book it was published in Philadelphia in 1734 served as a Presbyterian minister in one of its Grand Master Duke of Montagu, who were by Benjamin Franklin, being one of the first many neighborhoods. Anderson proved his ef- looking for an author to create a constitu- Masonic books published in the United States. fectiveness at the pulpit and published several tion which would place a definite imprint on He continued to preach and write to the end sermons, which was not often done in these the legitimacy of their fraternity. Upon their of his life, dying in 1738 a penniless man, but days. By 1715, it is suggested, he had become request, Anderson agreed and began to write having left a lasting name in the lives of Free- a Freemason. his book The Constitutions of Freemasonry. masons across the world.
BLIC SCHOO PU L E IC SS N A O Y S C A O
M N 2014 STATE MASONIC PUBLIC SCHOOL ESSAY CONTEST E T
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T T ESSAY CONTEST FOR JUNIORS AND SENIORS S WINNER $12,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS
ESSAY CONTESTTOPIC “At least thirteen signers of the US Constitution were Freemasons. Discuss how Masonic values shaped the formation of our nation’s republic.”
The winning essay(s) from a Local Lodge (one per high school in the Lodge’s area) will be sent to the Grand Lodge and must be postmarked no later than December 1, 2014.
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