TheFree State Freemason

Spring Issue April 2008 From the Grand Master 2008 Grand Line Officers M. Worshipful Grand Master John R. Biggs, Jr. Brethren: R. W. Deputy Grand Master Thomas M. Velvin, Jr. By the time you read this, Spring will be upon us, hope- R. W. Sr. Grand Warden Spyridon G. Treklas fully bringing warmer weather. While I have grown tired of R. W. Jr. Grand Warden Marvin E. Printz the cold, however, with respect to the fraternity, the winter R. W. Grand Secretary Herbert Y. Holcomb, III has been most enjoyable. I was invited, along with my R. W. Grand Treasurer William E. Gyr Grand Line, to preside over 21 installations of officers, and W. Grand Marshal Julius H. Poston had a wonderful time doing it. What a wonderful sight to stand in the East and see Lodge rooms overflowing with W. Asst. Grand Marshal Jay W. Hodges members and guests. And what a good impression my W. Grand Lecturer R. Gary Pierce Grand Line made on everyone as they went about their task W. Asst. Grand Lecturer Paul H. Fishell of installing the new officers for 2008. W. Grand Chaplain Elwood L. Ulmer On the first of March, I had the distinct pleasure of attending Waverly Lodge, and sit- W. Asst. Grand Chaplain Walter F. Burgess ting in the East for the first section of my oldest son’s Entered Apprentice Degree. What W. Asst. Grand Chaplain Jack R. George an enjoyable night that was. I am very grateful to the Worshipful Master and brothers of W. Asst. Grand Chaplain Leslie G. Metcalf, Sr. the Lodge for allowing me to do this. The Regional Meetings are now behind us, and my thanks to the Lodges that permit- W. Asst. Grand Chaplain Richard C. Oursler ted us to use their facilities to host this event. And my thanks to those that took the time W. Asst. Grand Chaplain Randall A. Schoch from their busy schedules to come out, socialize and listen to the presentations. I was W. Sr. Grand Deacon Robert H. Hill, Jr. quite pleased to see the large turnouts we had this year for the regional meetings. W. Jr. Grand Deacon R. Bruce Tanner For years and years Maryland Masons have focused their attention on supporting the W. Sr. Grand Steward Frederick A. Spicer needs and goals of our communities. I am very appreciative of the support our Lodges W. Jr. Grand Steward Dan B. Lane are showing for the Maryland Child Identification Program (MdChip) I put in place this W. Grand Standard Bearer Leslie G. Metcalf, Jr. year. I feel strongly that it is a wonderful way to get the Lodges in their communities to show them some of the many things we undertake for the good of society, and a won- W. Grand Sword Bearer Shawn R. Winpigler, Sr. derful benefit for our youth and their families. I hope all Lodges will take part in some W. Grand Pursuivant John B. Rogalski, Jr. fashion. As soon as we have our Lodges set up to begin the Chip program, I intend to W. Grand Dir. of Ceremonies Ronald A. Hill, Sr. contact the Baltimore Sun, local newspapers here in Baltimore Co. and meet with the Aide to Grand Master Thomas A. Keller Superintendent of Schools and other media in an effort to get the word out. Once your Aide to Grand Master Charles W. Winkler Lodge has this program in place, the Lodge coordinator should make contact with their W. Grand Tyler Gregory B. Hudnet local media, explain the program and ask that they advertise the date(s) you will make W. Asst. Grand Tyler Mark E. Hartz this service available to the public. This program is definitely a win – win situation for the Lodges and their communities. Brother Marlin Mills has agreed to chair this program W. Asst. Grand Tyler Richard H. Uren for us, and all questions pertaining to it should be directed to him. W. Grand Organist Ronald L. Unger I hope the Lodges will continue to show their support at the Grand Lodge by reserv- W. Asst. Grand Organist Kenneth C. Mars ing a table, or sharing a table with Lodges in their respective districts, to the various W. Grand Photographer W. Grant Gibson events coming up this spring and summer. First on the list is the Bull Roast on April 27th, Family Day at Bonnie Blink on June 7th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the Grand Master’s Ball on July 26th. Brethren, we do not price these events to make a profit – the cost of your ticket goes to the caterer in its entirety to assure you of a very nice event. The Grand Master’s Ball has always been a most enjoyable evening – this year we plan on making it even better – we have been able to contract with the Hubcaps. This is an outstanding group of entertainers. Join us during these events, and have a great time in your Grand Lodge. Fraternally, John R. Biggs, Jr. Grand Master

Remember to make your reservations for the Grand Lodge Bull & Oyster Roast April 27th. See page 5 for details. Deadlines for submitting articles & information for publication in the Free State Freemason: the 1st day of March (Spring), June (Summer), September (Fall), and December (Winter). These dates are firm as the issue must be formatted and given to the printer the last day of these months.

Send mail to: Grand Lodge of Maryland 304 International Circle Cockeysville, MD 21030

410-527-0600 tel 410-527-1276 fax The Grand Lodge of Maryland Ballroom Rentals [email protected] Contact: Raymond J. Vogel, Ballroom Coordinator at 410-527-0289 E-Mail: [email protected], Fax 410-316-9410 Grand Lodge Website Office Hours: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Monday - Friday by appointment. http://www.mdmasons.org Catering: Approved list of caterers. Ballroom Capacity: Receptions, 320, with a nice dance area. 410 for banquets Article Submission without dance area. Separate room for Weddings and Special Events. These points should be followed for Rates: Call for information. articles submitted for inclusion in the Free Parking: Free on site, 178 spaces. State Freemason publication: Information: Foyer is marble with a fantastic staircase. Ballroom is 55 ft. x 111 ft., with hardwood floors. Twelve brass chandeliers, dance area depends on table Original pictures or pictures from a dig- setup. A must see in person to really experience the beauty of this facility. Call us ital camera on disk are fine - use the high- and come see our Ballroom in this beautiful Hunt Valley setting. est resolution. License Plates Ink jet prints or newspaper pictures Masonic License plates are available to Maryland Masons, with vehicles will not reproduce satisfactorily. registered in Maryland, as well as their wives, widows, and sons and daughters living at home. You do not have to wait for renewal of registration. If you desire the return of pictures, they Call Ray Vogel at 410-527-0600 to find out how it works and how easy it is to must have submitting individual’s name put them on your vehicle. (Motorcycle tags are not available) on the back. Be proud of your fraternity and display these plates on your car this year.

Pictures should have accompanying Chair Plaques & The Tree of Life documentation detailing who is in the pic- Chair Plaques are for chairs located in the Corinthian Room on the second floor of Grand Lodge. ture and what the picture represents if not You may have your own name on a plaque, or have it in memory of, or to honor a person, club, or group. accompanied by an article. Articles must The Tree of Life is located in the main lobby of the Grand Lodge Building. You can sponsor a leaf be typewritten. on the tree, or have it in memory of, or to honor a person, club, or group.

Articles can be submitted to the editor The Chair Plaques and the Tree of Life leaves cost only $200.00 each. by e-mail, fax, regular mail or dropped This provides you with up to four lines on either, with twenty-one characters per line. off at the Grand Lodge office. Call Ray Vogel at the Grand Lodge at 410-527-0600 to make arrangements for yours. Change in Election of Thomas M. Velvin, Jr. Holding Company Board, 2006; Right Grand Lodge Officers Candidate for the office of Worshipful Master, Southern Maryland Past Most Worshipful Grand Master Master’s Association, 2006; Asst. Treasurer, Brethren, Blue Lodge: Camp Christ Church at I.U. Worshipful Junior Grand Beginning in 2008, the Grand Lodge of Springs Lodge No. 227; Steward, 1987; Advisory Council Bethel No. 41, Maryland will be electing its Officers and Raised May 12, 1978; IOJD, 1988 - 1993; Worshipful Master, Dr. John Board Members at the Semi-Annual Worshipful Master 1985. Coats Memorial Lodge, 1990 - 1994; President, Communication in May. They will then be Memberships: Ancient Camp Springs Temple Holding Corp., 1988 - installed at the Annual Communication in and Accepted Scottish 2003; Grand Inspector, 1994 - 2000. Served as November. This will give the Officers the Rite since 1978; Ancient President from 1996 - 2002. First President of opportunity to learn their elected office prior Arabic Order of Nobles combined Board; Board of Trustees, 1998 - to serving. of the Mystic Shrine 2004. Executive Committee, 1998 - 2004; You will see the resumes for these Officers since 1996; York Rite Chair, Personnel Committee, 1998 - 2003; Co- in this issue of the Free State Freemason. since 1998; Masonic Chair, Imperial Shrine 2005; web site, 2002 - There is also an amendment to the Veterans since 2005; 2006; Right Worshipful Junior Grand Warden, Constitution that will allow all “uncontested Chester River Shrine Club since 2005. 2004; Venerable Master, Lodge of Perfection, officers to be declared elected from the East, Leadership Positions: Webmaster, Maryland 2005; Treasurer, Episcopal Church of the and contested offices will be balloted on indi- Masonic Family since inception in 1994; Nativity, 1978 - 2006; Right Worshipful Deputy vidually, secret, and written.” Director of Work, AASR Baltimore Valley, 1998; Grand Master 2007-2008 Remember Brethren, this is your chance to Deputy Grand Lecturer, District 8, 2003; Board Awards: Warren E. Seipp Award, November have a voice in Grand Lodge. Make sure your of Trustees, 2005; Executive Committee, 2005; 1996; Coroneted Inspector General Honorary in Lodge representatives attend the Semi- Chairman - Policy Committee, 2005; AASR Scottish Rite, October 2001 Annual Communication on May 17, 2008. 2 Stephen J. Ponzillo, III Grand Master's Pursuit of Excellence Program. William E. Gyr Candidate for the office of Other organizations I participate in are: Candidate for the office of R W Deputy Grand Master Baltimore Highlands Square Club - Past R W Grand Treasurer I am a candidate for the President and current Treasurer; Member of Masonic Background: Office of Right Worshipful State Trooper Lodge No. 69 F.O.P.; Catonsville Past Master of Tuscan Deputy Grand Master. Elks No. 2323-Past Exalted Ruler. Lodge No. 202 and a plu- Professionally, I am I am a candidate for Rite Worshipful Senior ral member of Ionic No. retired from the public Grand Warden. It would be a great honor to 145. Currently serving as schools in Maryland after serve the Grand Lodge of Maryland and the Right Worshipful Grand thirty-seven years. I have brethren of the craf t. Treasurer. Bachelors and Masters Education: Certificate in degrees from Towson John M. Lister Accounting from Johns University and have Candidate for the office of Hopkins University. This advanced studies at five R W Senior Grand Warden curriculum is all the Major Accounting subjects other area universities. For twenty-seven years, Masonic History: required for an Accounting Degree. I served as a Principal and Assistant Principal at Annapolis Lodge No. 89 - Subsequently received a Bachelor of Science middle and high schools and was a teacher for Raised 1994, Worshipful Degree in Business Management from the eight years. Currently, I help train new public Master 1998 & 2004; University of Baltimore. Attended frequent sem- school teachers and teach graduate courses at Secretary 1999 & 2000, inars in Finance, Management, Technology, Towson University. Annapolis Lodge Board of Personnel and General Office Administration to A freemason for forty years, I am Past Master Trustees, 1996 thru 2000. keep current on these topics. of Liberty Lodge No. 219, have served in Grand Lodge of Maryland - Professional Experience: Supervised all numerous Grand Lodge positions and in 2006 Worshipful Grand Standard Accounting functions including Accounts was Right Worshipful Senior Grand Warden, Bearer, 1999; Grand Receivable, Payable and General Ledger. currently serve as the Curator/Librarian for Master’s Steering Committee 1999, Board of Controller positions have included the duties of Grand Lodge. Managers, appointed to vacancy 2000, elected preparing Financial Statements, Budgets, I hold the 33° in the Scottish Rite, and have thru 2005; Worshipful Grand Marshal, 2001 & Systems Design and report analysis. Serving as served the York Rite as Grand High Priest of the 2002; Deputy Grand Lecturer, 2001 to pres- Controller, I have been the primary representa- Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, Grand ent. tive with Auditors, Banking operations, Master of Cryptic Masons and Grand Masonic Affiliation: Scottish Rite, Valley of Insurance Agents and Employee Benefit Commander of Knights Templar in Maryland. Baltimore - Member, 1996, Diplomat, 1997. providers. I am privileged to be the Past Sovereign of A.A.O.N.M.S., Boumi Temple - Member, 1996. Currently semi-retired, I am the Controller for the Red Cross of Constantine and belong to the Annapolis Shrine Club - Member, 1998. Central a Manufacturing and Installation company serv- Grotto, the KYCH the Tall Cedars, and the MD Past Masters Assoc. - Charter Member and ing as a sub-contractor to the building industry. Shrine, the Allied Masonic Degrees, the Royal Chaplain 1999, President 2004. York Rite - Mr. Masonic History: Former DeMolay, Tuscan Order of Scotland, the National Sojourners, the Vernon Chapter No. 25, Member 1999, Past Chapter, Legion of Honor; Past Patron Gleaner Heroes of ’76 and hold the Order of the Purple High Priest; Harmony Council, No. 20, Member Chapter No. 49, OES; Past Associate Cross of the York Rite College. I am most hon- 1999; Palestine Commandery No. 7 - Member Guardian, Bethel No. 48, IOJD, Reisterstown. ored to have been named an honorary Past 1999 Master of Tuscan Lodge in 2000. Currently Master of Patapsco Lodge No. 183 and Mt. Civic Activities: Volunteer Fire Fighter, serving as Vice President, Board of Grand Moriah Lodge No. 116. Baltimore County; Hydroplane Racing Rescue Inspectors for the Central Region, Grand A senior member of Dundalk Chapter, I have Team Inspector to Lebanon Lodge No. 175 and been honored by the Supreme Council of Worshipful Grand Pursuivant 2005-06. Member DeMolay as an Honorary member. Herbert Y. Holcomb, III of Masonic Veterans Association and will be the I pledge my best efforts in support of the Candidate for the office of Senior Warden for the Past Masters Grand Master and his program for Grand R W Grand Secretary Association, Baltimore this coming December. Lodge. Masonic Background: Past Master of Oriental Louis F. Bandell, Jr. Kenneth Taylor Lodge No. 158 in 1982, Candidate for the Candidate for the office of 1989, 1997, 1998, 1999, Board of Managers R W Senior Grand Warden 2002, and 2003. Past Masonic Resume: Masonic Resume: My Grand Inspector, Past VP Member of Warren Masonic journey began of the Board of Grand Lodge No. 51. Past in 1991 at Howard Inspectors, Past Master of Joppa Lodge Lodge No. 101 and in Worshipful Senior Grand No. 132 in 1967 & 1975; the years 1997, 1998 & Deacon, Past Member of Past Master of Warren 2000 I was privileged the Board of Managers, Lodge No. 51 in 2004; to serve as Worshipful Past President of the Past Master’s Association Past Master of Bonnie Master. of Baltimore City/County and currently is the Blink Daylight Lodge No. I was honored to Right Worshipful Grand Secretary. 1 in 2006. achieve the Grand Masonic Affiliations: Scottish Rite, York Rite, Served as a Grand Master's Award in all Tall Cedars, Shrine, Knights of Mecca, Masonic Inspector for the Grand Lodge of Maryland in three years, twice with distinction. I now serve Veterans Association. 1971-1973 & 2005-2006. Co-Chair of Harvest as the lodge Marshal and Ritualist. In 2004 I Home Day Committee from 1969-1974. was appointed Worshipful Grand Standard Masonic Affiliation: Scottish Rite: 32º KCCH - Bearer. Also I was appointed as a Grand 1969, 33º Inspector General Honorary - 1977; Inspector, a job I truly enjoy. In 1992 I joined the Past Venerable Master Albert Pike Lodge of Scottish Rite and Boumi Temple. I was a part of Perfection in 1972; Past Wise Master Meredith the last York Rite festival class to be held at the Chapter of Rose Croix - 1982; Past old Grand Lodge building. Commander Maryland Council of Kadosh - I have earned the Gold Card for ritual in the 1979; Past Venerable Master of Chesapeake 3 Consistory - 1977; Assistant Director of Work - Clifton Friel Frevel served as Potentate of Boumi 2002 & 2003 Candidate for the Shriners in 1992. He received the 33rd Degree York Rite: Adoniram Chapter No. 21 - High Board of Managers Inspector General Honorary of the Scottish Rite Priest 1971, 1972, 1974; Phoenix Chapter No. Masonic Resume: Clifton in October 1997. Frevel is a member of Scottish 7 - High Priest 2004, 2006, 2007; Grand began his Masonic career at Rite, Chesapeake Consistory, Valley of Chapter of Maryland - RE Grand Capt. of Hosts Temple Lodge No. 128 in Baltimore, Orient of Maryland, and the Past - 2005; RE Grand Scribe - 2006; RE Grand Denton, Maryland on Director of Royal Order of Jesters of Baltimore King - present. Concordia Council No. 1 - Thrice November 28, 1967, Court No. 82. He is also a member of Baltimore Illustrious Master 1975, 1976; Jerusalem Worshipful Master in 1974, Forest No. 45, Tall Cedars of Lebanon, the Council No. 2 - Chaplain - present; Grand Secretary since 1985 and Order of Quetzalcoatl, Mile Hi Teocali No. 69 Council of Maryland - Grand Marshal - 1977; Treasurer of the Mid-Eastern and Chesapeake Teocali No. 100. He is also a Crusade Commandery No. 5 KT - Eminent Shore Past Masters' life-member of the Cabiri. Commander - 2006; Grand Commandery of Association since 1975. Frevel served as the chairman of the Maryland - Civic & Patriotic Comm. Chairman. In 1991, Clifton was the Masonic Youth Committee in Maryland and as Tall Cedars: Baltimore Forest No. 45 - Past first recipient of the Grand Lodge's Warren S. chairman of the Grand Master's Masonic Youth Preceptor Seipp Medal for Meritorious Service and has Day from 1983-1997. Eastern Star: Parkville Chapter No. 1969 - served as Grand Inspector for six years. Past Patron. In the York Rite, Cliff has served as the presid- Gene L. Purkey Professional: Apprenticed as a Sheet Metal ing officer of all York Rite bodies in Denton earn- Candidate for the fabricator, and worked in the Baltimore area and ing him Knight of the York Rite Cross of Honor. Board of Trustees continuing throughout his active career. As a Cliff has also served as presiding Grand Officer of Masonic Resume: Member member of Sheet Metal Workers Union 122, three York Rite Bodies and received the order of of Potomac Lodge No. 100. Brother Bandell worked in and with many the Purple Cross. He has served as Sovereign Past Master 2005 & 2006. Baltimore Area firms. His final employment was Master of the Allied Degrees, and is an officer in Past Secretary and with the National Security Agency. His career St. Cyprian Conclave Red Cross of Constantine, Treasurer. Past Grand was marked by progressive responsibility and Francis Scott Key Priory Knights York Cross of Pursuivant for Grand Lodge independent action. Honor and belongs to the Masonic Rosicrucians. of Maryland 2007; Board of Brother Bandell has a long and broad history Cliff is a member of Chesapeake Consistory of Governors - Scottish Rite in all areas of Masonic Fraternity, giving him a the Scottish Rite as well as the Royal Order of Endowment Fund; balanced view of the ongoing challenges to long Scotland. He joined the Caroline Chapter OES in Executive Committee term operations. His principal professional tal- 1975 and has served as Worthy Patron nine Member. ent which he brings to the Board of Managers is times. Professional: Perky Vettes, Inc. - Owner and If elected I will bring my activity in Masonic critical thinking, problem analysis and creative President for 21 years; IBM Corp. for 30 years problem solving. leadership positions to continued service to the Grand Lodge and to our Grand Master. in various management positions. Financial management & budgeting are skills My many years as an administrative manag- acquired in the various fraternal organizations in Raoul L. Frevel, Sr. er at IBM Corporation as well as in my own which he has presided. Learning to succeed in business provide a wealth of overall business Candidate for the the groups’ missions often on limited funds is and management experiences at both a Board of Trustees one of the talents Bro. Lou learned in the chairs. Fortune 50 corporation, and at a small business Raoul served on the level. My skills include the ability to analyze sit- Shriners Hospitals for Robert W. Chase uations from all angles and determine the best Children Board of Trustees Candidate for the cause of action to obtain stated goals. Project during the Shriners' 2006 Board of Managers management and the ability to get people to annual international con- Career: Fifteen (15) work together are also key strengths. My formal vention for Imperial Council years in radio broadcast- education includes an executive MBA with an Session - held in Tampa, ing. Twenty (20) plus emphasis on finance and marketing. Fla., July 2-6. Frevel served years as an Account I believe my combined business and man- as Imperial Potentate Manager. agement experience qualifies me for a position (president and CEO of Currently Branch Sales on the Board of Trustees. My work experiences Shriners of North America) in 2004-2005. Manager for Print-O- and appreciation for the endowment funds in Frevel is a consultant of operations and was Stat, Inc.. my home Lodge and the Scottish Rite chief executive officer of Atlantic Caterers Inc. Masonic Resume: Endowment give me a working knowledge of from 1977-1997. Atlantic, an off-premise caterer, Raised in Mt. Moriah the tasks required in this position. Lodge No. 116 in 1996. is a family business that has been incorporated Appointed Line Officer Mt. since 1968. Frevel has also been active in the Keith M. Vivian National Association of Catering Executives in Moriah Lodge No. 116 1997. Worshipful Master Candidate for the Maryland. Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 116 2002 Board of Trustees Grand Lodge Positions: Appointed Worshipful Frevel was raised in 1972 at Concordia Lodge Professional: 1959- Junior Grand Deacon 2005. Elected Grand No. 13, where he received the "Mason of the 1967 Operated various Lodge Board of Managers November 2005. Year" award in 2004. He has been a member of office equipment and Appointed Grand Inspector (Charity Lodge No. DeMolay, serving on the Supreme Council, exec- printing presses for CIA. 134) 2007. utive officer of Maryland from 1995-1997, the 5th Knowledgeable in all Concordant Bodies: York Rite – Royal Arch Past International Master Councilor, Past State areas of commercial off- Baltimore Chapter. Scottish Rite – Valley of Master Councilor of Maryland and Past Master set printing. 1978-1994 Baltimore, Orient of Maryland. 2007 - Senior Councilor of Tuscan Chapter. He served as pres- Lanman Companies - all Warden Meredith Chapter Rose Croix. Awarded ident of the DeMolay Foundation of Maryland prepress phases of the Rank and Decoration of Knight Commander from 1986-1992, and he holds the Order of printing; stripping 4 color of the Court of Honor 2005. Member of Scottish DeMolay Legion of Honor. Frevel was also work for phases. Proof Rite 5th, 14th, and 30th Degree Team. inducted into the DeMolay Hall of Fame in June and bluelines for customers approval. 1995- We continually hear that we are a part of the 2004, and in June 2005, he was honored with the 1997 - Salesman for Bernie’s Print Shoppe. greatest fraternity in the world. I believe it and DeMolay Supreme Council Member of the Year 1997-present Retired. hope to bring a positive image to Grand Lodge. Award. Masonic: Member of St. Columba Lodge No. 4 150. Master in 1986, 2000, 2001. Secretary If interested please contact Karl Knouse, PM The Maryland Student 2006-present. 1991 - Appointed Grand [email protected] or 410-692-5560. Make Assistance Program Inspector. 1995 - Elected Right Worshipful checks payable to Charity Lodge No. 134 in the Many Maryland Masons may be aware of amount of $60/reservation and mail to: Senior Grand Warden. 1999-present Masonic Masonic Charity of Maryland’s Scholarship Service Association, Hospital Visitation Karl Knouse, PM 2215 Jerrys Road program; fewer know of the Maryland Student Program Chairman. Street Maryland 21154-1014 Assistance Program. Almost twenty-five years Collateral Bodies: 1992, 2006, 2007 - Worthy Fraternally, Fred Laser, WM old, this ongoing effort recently held several Patron of St. Columba Chapter No. 92, OES. events where Maryland Freemasonry’s sup- IOJD Visits 98 Rock/WBAL port of training teachers in helping youngsters Michael P. Codori On December 28, 2007, Bethel 35 IOJD, Bel avoid substance abuse was on display. Candidate for the Air, MD, visited the 98 Rock/WBAL AM/WBAL TV On February 25, the Maryland Student MCM Board of Directors studios, and were given a tour by "Detour Dave" Assistance Program Professionals Professional: Career Dave Sandler. Association (MSAPPA) held its 20th annual Educator: Science The young ladies saw the studios, the produc- Conference at the Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott tion offices, and were able to speak to many of teacher, grades 7-12 (14 City. The partnership between MSAPPA and the radio personalities about careers in broad- the Masonic Charities of Maryland (MCM) years), Zoology profes- casting. sor, Montgomery College was never more evident than on this day by (2 years), secondary the recognition of the MCM Board and the administrator, grades 7- naming of a scholarship in honor of the late 12 (15 years), interven- MWPGM C. David Haacke, through whose tion specialist, Safe & untiring efforts the Student Assistance Drug-Free Schools (10 Program was founded and has continued in years). Currently, consult- Maryland. ant and trainer, Student Assistance Program, The keynote speaker, Darryl Hunter, spoke team organization and development. to the more than 350 attendees on the topic of Member: National Association of Secondary “The New Poverty,” a program that seeks to School Principals, MD Association of understand the perspectives of children born Secondary Schools Principals, Maryland into and living in poverty. The cost of the keynote speaker is graciously borne each Student Assistance Program Professionals (The young ladies pictured above are: Alicia, year by the MCM, to illustrate their support for Association (president, 2000-2006). Cathy, Kim, Christine, Katie, Patsy, Paige, and this important program that identifies at-risk Masonic: Montgomery-Cornerstone Lodge Katie (yes, there are 2). The man with them is students and intervenes with their parents to No. 195, raised in 2002; York Rite of “Detour Dave” Sandler.) Montgomery County; Blue Lodge committees: secure help to improve their success in school Scholarship and Lodge Merger Exploration; MCM’s 1st Annual Scholarship and also in life. At that event, our Right Masonic Charities of Maryland (MCM) Board of Awards Banquet Worshipful Deputy Grand Master, Thomas M Velvin, Jr. addressed the assemblage and Directors since 2005. Masonic Charities of Maryland will hold the received appreciation given by the President First Annual Scholarship Awards Banquet on of MSAPPA to all Maryland Masons for their Grand Lodge of Maryland Sunday, June 8, 2008 in the Grand Ballroom of ongoing sponsorship. Deluxe Bull & Oyster Roast the Grand Lodge in Cockeysville. The event is Day & Date: Sunday, April 27, 2008 Also, on March 4 & 5, 54 school staff mem- scheduled to begin at 3:30 p.m. Time: Food 2-6 pm, Dancing 3-7 pm bers (teachers, principals, counselors, nurs- The forty-eight MCM Scholarship Awards Place: Grand Lodge Ballroom es, and others) convened at the Carver Staff winners of 2008 will be feted that afternoon Price: $26.00 before April 15, 2008 Development Training Center in Gambrills to along with two of their guests. Each honoree $30.00 after April 16, 2008 be trained in the Maryland Student Assistance Tickets: Call, Ray Vogel 410.527.0289 or will receive their Scholarship Award check for Program. This two-day intensive event was Grand Lodge 410.527.0600 – Jason $1,000.00, a certificate and a gift honoring their paid for as well through the generosity of the Menu: On the pit: Beef, Turkey, Country selection. Additionally, one of the forty-eight Masonic Charities. One of the MCM board Smoked Ham; Bread, Rolls and Condiments; winners will be selected to receive the first members, Mike Codori, Junior Warden in Oysters on the shell with spicy cocktail sauce; award of the C. David Haacke Memorial Montgomery-Cornerstone Lodge No. 195, is Fried padded oysters; Homemade oyster stew; Scholarship for $5,000.00. Meat Lasagna, Bar-B-Q chicken; Sauerkraut & one of the trainers for this program. As both a The State Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Kielbasa; Macaroni & cheese, mashed potatoes Mason and an educator, he fully appreciates Nancy S. Grasmick, will bring greetings and join with gravy, succotash; Fresh fruit, potato salad, the invaluable connection between Student MCM and all Freemasons in Maryland, to honor Caesar salad; Assorted cheeses & crackers, Assistance and the Masonic Charities, with- our distinguished scholarship winners. Also Seasonal vegetables with dips; Pickled beets; out whose support this Student Assistance invited to this special Awards Dinner are the Coffee & iced tea; Beer & soda; Sheet cake - program would not exist. The youth of last hour of food. Worshipful Masters and their ladies of all our Maryland and those who work with them Tables of 8 Masonic Lodges, especially those lodges spon- every day owe a debt of gratitude to MCM for No tickets sold at door soring one of the forty-eight (48) winners. This their love of children demonstrated by their event is “business formal” for scholarship win- support. Charity Lodge No. 134 ners and their guests. Worshipful Masters and As a Maryland Freemason, you contribute Bus Trip Grand Lodge officials are to be in tuxedo. to this remarkable effort to help our students The 2nd trip is co-sponsored with Shrewsbury Due to the generosity of Monumental in need. No. 423 F. & A. M. The trip is to the George Commandery No. 3, Knights Templar of Washington Masonic Memorial and Mt. Vernon Cockeysville, this event is “gratis” for all atten- on June 7, 2008. The trip price is $60 per per- dees. MCM needs to augment the son that includes the bus fare, admission to Commandery’s support and will be pleased to both the Memorial and Mount Vernon and lunch accept donations from Masonic Lodges, other at the Memorial. Everyone is welcome, Masons bodies, and individuals. and their ladies and non Masons. Reservations for this event may be made by The tentative itinerary is to depart York contacting the Grand Lodge at 410-527-0600. Masonic Center at 7am. Pickups also will be at Shrewsbury and Charity Lodge tentatively and also at Bonnie Blink. 5 Maryland Masonic Homes Shelly Lewis, Admissions Coordinator Initially it took 75 years to develop a Masonic Home. The official opening occurred in 1934 and in 2008 Maryland Masonic Homes will cele- brate serving seniors for 74 years. See page 7 of this issue for a more complete history of the From the Hill Maryland Masonic Homes at Bonnie Blink. Paula O’Neill, Executive Director Our community of Masonic family currently Maryland Masonic Homes houses 145 residents in 4 different levels of care. The column this quar- offered nursing home care. She came in for a Independent living is offered in uniquely ter is dedicated to the tour looking for a one bedroom apartment and designed studio, 1 and 2 bedroom apartments family of residents at two days later she was back with a deposit to Our social independent living setting is currently Bonnie Blink. Each resi- reserve that same unit. Margaret’s Masonic 100% occupied with 15 people on the external dent is a unique individ- eligibility is through her late husband, Claude wait list. ual who brings with him Todd of Warren Lodge No. 51. Every day, you Assisted Living is offered in two different set- or her a lifetime of experi- can catch Margaret walking through the hall- tings, Assisted Living Ionic and Assisted Living ences to share. way smiling and greeting everyone she sees. Terrace. Both provide our residents with assis- When residents Still maintaining her independence as she did tance with the daily activities of living. Our sup- choose Maryland in her condo, she participates in many arts porting staff encourages residents to retain their Masonic as their home, they become a mem- and crafts. Recently she offered a cane dec- independence and maintain an active social ber of an exclusive family. Staff and residents orating class to residents. Margaret regularly lifestyle. join together in times of happiness and sor- shares and tours family and friends and What began as an infirmary and dormitory for row, working and playing together to continue expresses how happy she is to be at Bonnie aged and poor health individuals has trans- to add to cherished memories to our lives. Blink. “This place is so well run and full of formed into a comfortable “home like” setting Two residents who reside in our great workers and residents that I am just very managed by compassionate and experienced Independent Living apartments wanted to grateful to be a part of it!” staff. Our Healthcare and Secured Dementia share their special Bonnie Blink moments with Many have joined in participating in the units are dedicated to improving the quality of life everyone. I introduce and thank Dorothy Third Age survey that was distributed to 6,000 for each individual. Holman and Margaret Todd. Masons in January. The representatives from Perhaps you have visited the community or Resident Dorothy this consulting partner are busy gathering the are familiar with the name, “Bonnie Blink”, we Holman has resided in survey information and are beginning to for- still encourage you to come and see what we are the Independent Living mulate the first steps in scheduling focus all about. Please contact Shelly Lewis, apartments for almost groups. Stay tuned for more updates as we Admissions Coordinator at 410-527-1111 for a ten years. During a proceed on our expansion project. detailed tour and discussion of all levels of care recent interview for a The special fraternity of brotherhood and and services offered. Saturday and evening “Real Life” article to be sisterhood is the foundation of our beloved appointments are available upon request. featured in the Guide to Homes. On behalf of the residents, I extend Retirement Living our appreciation for the support. We consis- Magazine, Mrs. Holman tently strive to improve and seek new meth- felt very alone after her husband of fifty-seven ods and practices as we evolve our communi- years, Basil William Holman’s passing. Mr. ty. Holman was a member of Mt. Moriah Lodge Recently we began enhancements to No. 116. “I visited several other retirement liv- Serenity Hill, our secure dementia unit by ing communities and was encouraged by a adding colorful murals and pictures. We are friend to visit the Masonic Homes. I was look- also seeking to purchase two park benches ing for a smaller facility where I could be for the serene sitting area at the end of each involved in activities and social gatherings. I wing. also liked the fact that with a smaller commu- nity, I would have the opportunity to get to know every resident by their first name.” Dorothy chose Bonnie Blink to be her new home. She is an active volunteer and partici- pates in many aspects of activities at the Homes including, Past President of Resident Bro. Melvin Kencel enjoys a quiet afternoon in the Council, Past Guardian of Jobs Daughters MMH Library. There are many areas of the Homes and an avid bridge and rummy player. where residents can spend their leisure time. Dorothy says, “I love it here. Every new resi- dent becomes a part of our growing family.” Her sister moved into the community shortly after she did and now they are able to spend We are asking for monetary donations to valuable time together. cover the $1,200 cost (each bench is $600.) Newer resident Please send your gift payable to Maryland Margaret Todd has just Masonic Homes, to: celebrated her five month Maryland Masonic Homes mark at Bonnie Blink. Attn. Paula O’Neill She moved directly from 300 International Circle her two bedroom condo Cockeysville, MD 21030. at Highview, located Add to the memo “Park Bench”. beside Maryland Much happiness and good health to every- Masonic. Mrs. Todd one as we enter this beautiful and blessed explained she had originally believed we only season of Spring. Margaret Whittle participates in one of the many activities offered to the residents. 6 THE HISTORY OF Warren Seipp. His dying words to E. Lee October 26, 1935. This was made possible by a BONNIE BLINK Hickman were, "Lee, I do not believe I will ever gift of forty-two hundred and fifty-dollars from A Masonic home for Maryland had been live to see Bonnie Blink together with you again, Thomas D. Epron of Pythagoras Lodge#123. In talked about for seventy-five years before a def- but if we do not, tell the boys to carry on." And the fall of 1935, Bonnie Blink was presented a inite move was made in May, 1923, when the carry on they did for the records show that three portrait of the late G. M. Seipp. This hangs in our Grand Lodge adopted Article Thirty to its thousand Masons gathered on the Third Annual Board Room today. Constitution establishing a Masonic Home Husking Party. Three additions had been made to Cornhusking was discontinued during the Fund. From then until May 1927, about one the acreage and by 1930, Bonnie Blink consisted years 1932 through 1936 and voted by Grand hundred and sixty-eight thousand dollars was of three-hundred and thirty-eight point seven Lodge to resume in 1937. Also, there were no accumulated. During this period of time the acres. husking parties during the war years of 1942, search was on for suitable property. Several 1943 and 1944. parcels were under consideration, among them During 1937, the Endowment Fund received being five-hundred acres of the Catoctin more that one-hundred thousand dollars from Furnace Tract, about one mile from Thurmont. the Estate of Arthur D. Rivers and the Grand At the Semi-Annual Communication in May, Chapter Order of Eastern Star undertook the 1927, the Board of Managers were authorized, project to erect the Chapel. The new Chapel empowered and directed to proceed toward the was dedicated on June 4, 1938. It was present- purchase of land, construction, furnishing and ed by Grand Chapter Order of Eastern Star and maintenance of the Masonic Homes. Grand Master Harry B. Wright accepted the The actual agreement for the purchase of presentation. Bonnie Blink was consummated on May 17, By the spring of 1947, there were one-hun- 1927. The owners were John B. Wailes and his dred and eleven residents at Bonnie Blink and wife, Anna (or Annie). They contracted to sell the Infirmary fund had reached two hundred the farm consisting of two-hundred and sixty-six and twenty-five thousand dollars. The Annual point two acres for the sum of forty-five thou- The year 1931 marked another milestone in Cornhusking Day was a wet one, for it rained all sand dollars in fee. The deed was dated June the history of Bonnie Blink. On the afternoon of day. Despite this, however, attendance was the 30, 1927. An additional twenty-seven acres the day for the Semi-Annual Communication, second largest in its history. Cornhusking Party were acquired almost simultaneously from May, 19, ground was broken for the first unit on of 1948 was held on the first Saturday in Wilbur C. Swam and his wife, Clara for one hun- Bonnie Blink, sixty-five hundred Masons, their November and more than four thousand dred and ninety dollars per acre. The total cost families and friends gathered for the ceremonies. Masons attended, partaking of a barbecue of the entire tract was fifty-five thousand forty- The architect for the building was Bro. William E. luncheon. nine dollars and forty-three cents. Emmart of M.A. Long Construction Company. The contract was for an estimated sum of three- hundred and ninety-two thousand dollars. Boilers, heating, plumbing, elevator, etc. brought the total to five-hundred and ninety-two thousand, six hun- dred and five dollars. On October 10, 1931, the Grand Lodge met in Special Communication at Bonnie Blink to lay the cornerstone of the new Masonic Home. It was estimated that five-thousand people witnessed the ceremonies. The trowel and gavel used on this occasion were the same as used by George Washington to lay the cornerstone of the Nation's Capitol in Washington, D.C. on September 18, 1793. Many Masonic tokens and printed materi- Over the years, Cornhusking has remained The property was improved by a large frame als were placed in a copper box and sealed with- one of the most memorable days of the year, building, which could serve as a temporary in the cornerstone as well as copies of the Grand even though there is no longer corn to husk. home and had much development potential. Lodge proceedings as early as 1842. The day is now one of fellowship, good times, Following the purchases of Bonnie Blink farm, Bonnie Blink was entirely paid for when it was and rededication of memories for all of those the mansion house was renovated, furnished dedicated - October 22, 1932. The decision was who, over the years, have done so much for the and opened for inspection on Saturday, July 2, made to open the Home on May 1, 1933, but that brotherhood of mankind. and an invitation extended to Masons through- was the year of the big depression so the actual At the Semi Annual Communication in May out Maryland to visit as they had an opportuni- opening was postponed until May 1, 1934. of 2007, another addition was approved. This ty. Bonnie Blink was left open for visitors until Opening on this date was made possible, in part, new community building will include a fitness the early part of September and then closed for by a bequest of Bro. Arthur Wallenhorst of Joppa center with a pool and meeting/gathering fall and winter. Dinners were served at a mod- Lodge#132, in the amount of approximately one- rooms. A second building will include indepen- est price and at a loss, but it was felt the pro- hundred and sixty-five thousand dollars. Most of dant living apartments and a covered parking gram was worth bringing the many visitors to the gift was used as the nucleus of a permanent garage. the site. Approximately fifteen-thousand people Endowment Fund which was established when There are currently 6,000 surveys that have visited Bonnie Blink within a two-month period. the Homes opened. been randomly sent to Maryland Masons about When the Grand Lodge met for its Annual com- Eleven guests were among the first group to the new addition to the Homes, its services munication in 1927, the Trustees announced enter. There were four married couples. By the offered, etc. More information on this project will Bonnie Blink would be open for visitors from November Communication in 1934, applications be released as we progress. April to October and by the end of 1927, the had risen to sixty-seven. Endowment Fund had reached about two-hun- Bro. E. Lee Hickman, the Homes first dred thousand dollars. Superintendent reported to the November com- The purchase price and cost of maintenance munication in 1934 that the kitchen department for the first year had been taken entirely from with assistance of residents had prepared four- general funds of the Grand Lodge in order to hundred and twenty-three quarts of canned veg- leave the Home fund in tact. It was estimated an etables, four-hundred and fifty-one quarts of Endowment Fund of at least one and a half mil- canned and preserved fruit, and three-hundred lion dollars would be needed for the proposed and forty-two glasses of jelly. Home. This would mean an average contribu- In the library were nearly sixteen-hundred vol- tion of about fifty-dollars for each of the more umes. All donated by friends. Many gifts were than thirty thousand Masons in Maryland. received during this period. Among them, our bar- The year 1930 was fruitful for Bonnie Blink, ber chair and pool table which is in use today. marred only by the death of Grand Master The tower clock and its bell were dedicated on 7 with each of the attendees personally and pro- vided pictures to 70 of them. Not everyone wanted a picture, but everyone who wanted one got one. Though some had to be delivered after the party ended because we simply could- n't print them fast enough. And I couldn't keep up with the list of all the Brethren who were in attendance. In addition to RWDGM Tom Velvin, I did notice several Past Grand Masters including John Young, Francis Larrimore and William Clark. I apologize for not getting everyone's name and the names of their ladies, I will try to do better next time. I also ask the forgiveness of those whom I did not name individually. Mrs. Claus and I would like to compliment whomever chose the entertainment this year. We think they were the best we've ever seen. And as usual, the food was spectacular and plentiful. In general - A GREAT time was had by all. Mrs. Claus made kitchen aprons and pot hold- Pictured Above: Maddison Walbeck, Daughter of Richard Walbeck of Chester Lodge No. 115, ers for the Lodges to raffle and each Lodge being interviewed by RW Deputy Grand Master Thomas M. Velvin, Jr. and Santa Clause Bro. accepted donations – BUT DID NOT CHARGE Gene E. Utterback for the MD CHIP program. – for the pictures with Santa. Every one, chil- dren and residents, received a Candy Cane and Identification Program equipment and provided Report of Santa Visitation got to spend as much time as they liked with me identification packages to the parents of most of It is with great pleasure that I report to you to share their Christmas lists. the children who visited with us. It is worth noting the results of this year's Visits with Santa & Mrs. The Brethren were most gracious and that Chester Lodge No. 115 was the VERY FIRST Claus. accommodating – as usual – and Mrs. Claus LODGE to make use of this equipment. On Saturday and Sunday, December 1 & 2, and I would like to thank them publicly for allow- The Brethren in attendance included Chris 2007 we visited with 258 Children at the Holiday ing us to visit with them and their neighbor- Pavon, PM, Secretary; Jesse Cunningham, PM, Inn Express in Prince Frederick, Maryland. hoods. The annual Santa Visitations provide an Past Secretary and photographer; Wayne Bradley Prince Frederick Lodge No. 142 sponsored this excellent opportunity for Freemasons to open PM, Treasurer; George Wilson, PM, Chaplain and event, as they've done every year since 1998. their doors and allow the public a peek into our his wife Marilyn Wilson – George and Marilyn are This year's elves included Worshipful Master Sanctum Sanctorum. Hopefully doing so will also the Worthy Matron and Patron of Brother Douglas Cooper; Mike O’Kelley, PM, help to not only dispel some of the myths but Chestertown Chapter No. 86 of the Order of the SW and his Lady Sippie; Bill Kugel, PM, PGI, will also entice other good men to improve Eastern Star; Gary Shield, Junior Steward; James WPGSwB, DGL; Matt Ingalls, FC; Gene themselves in Masonry. TJ Martin, Senior Steward; John Stephenson, Gullickson, JD; Norman Broyles, PM, PGI, SW; I'd also like to thank you, Grand Master, for Musician; Richard Walbeck, a newly raised Kirk Kugel, SD; Vince Keyser, Marshall; Jim bestowing upon me the official title of Grand Master Mason; and RWDGM Tom Velvin. Dabbs, EA; John Hall, PM, PDGL, RWPSGW; Santa Claus. As you may recall, that presenta- As a side note, for your information, Mrs. Claus and John Cronshey, MM – who just happens to tion knocked me off my feet! & I were inducted into Eastern Star Chapter No. be 96 years young this year. Respectfully submitted, 86 in Chestertown on December 11, 2007. Brother Past Master Senior Warden Mike Brother Gene Utterback, On Saturday afternoon, December 8, 2007, we O'Kelly entertained the children who were wait- AKA – Brother Santa Claus visited with approximately 29 children at ing with magic and as usual he astounded them Past Master North Pole Lodge No. 1 Centreville Lodge No. 180 from 1:00 P.M. Till 4:00 (as well as their parents). Past Master Prince Frederick Lodge No. 142 P.M. Again, while the number is small is it MORE Our dear friends Dr. Nathan Centers and his Grand Inspector wife Shelly once again traveled all the way from THAN TWICE who visited with us last year. Dagsboro Delaware to take pictures for the chil- The Brethren, with the assistance of their dren. And as usual they provided all the cam- Eastern Star Chapter, provided refreshments in Masonic Service Association era equipment, film and photo frames at no cost their dining hall. Centreville also provided some Appeal for Relief to the Lodge or the children. What makes this of the nicest frames Mrs. Claus and I have ever seen. They were on powder blue paper with a -Tennessee- particularly remarkable is that Nathan is NOT a The Grand Lodge of Tennessee is asking Mason, nor is Shelly a member of the Eastern snowflake background and every picture was put for assistance to help them recover from the Star. They are simply great friends who've been in the frame by the Brothers helping with the pho- helping with the Annual Santa Visitation since tos – even the folks that received multiple pictures tornadoes that struck on February 5, 2008. 2001. got frames for every picture. Damage was extensive and loss of life was On Saturday morning, December 8, 2007, The Brethren in attendance included Bro. Willis very high. In fact, the Grand Lodge of we were the guests of honor at a Breakfast with Dennis, PM, Worshipful Master and his wife Tennessee tells us that at least 5 of their Santa & Mrs. Claus hosted by Chester Lodge Linda; Photographer Bro. Ed Berkman, PM, members were killed in this devastating No. 115. Chester puts on an AYCE breakfast on Chaplain, Treasurer elect and his wife Barbara; storm. Help in their recovery is urgent. the last Saturday morning of every month and Charles Campbell, SW, WM Elect; Bro. Bryan Please forward to the MSA such funds as Gall, SD, JW Elect; Bro. Marty Appel, JD, SD for they usually get a pretty good turnout. While you feel appropriate to help our devastated this breakfast was not on their usual Saturday it 2008; Bro. Dennis Crawford, PM and his wife Susan; Bro. Al Feast & his wife, Ruth who donat- Brethren and their families in this stricken was a SELLOUT – they served breakfast to 97 jurisdiction. Please make checks payable to folks and actually ran out of food. ed a cake. MSA Disaster Relief and send to 8120 The Brethren of Chester Lodge, with the Centreville also had two Shrine Clowns to help assistance of their Eastern Star Chapter, provid- entertain the visitors - "Pop Cycle" – Bro. Danny Fenton St, Ste. 203, Silver Spring, MD 20910- ed 28 children with their choice of either a color- Horton, PM and “Willie" - Bro. Bill Joyce, PM. 4785. ing book & crayons, a snow globe picture frame These “clowns” really helped to put some of the Thank you very much for your help! or a porcelain doll along with their picture. children at ease; they really added to the event Most sincerely and fraternally, While the number of children may not seem and the overall experience for everyone – me and Richard E. Fletcher, PGM impressive, take note that the attendance DOU- Mrs. Claus included. Executive Secretary BLED from last year. On Thursday afternoon, December 13, 2007, Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master we visited once again during the annual Thomas Velvin was also on hand with the Child Christmas party for the residents of the Masonic Retirement Home at Bonnie Blink. We visited 8 2008 Installation of Officers - Birmingham Lodge No. 188 On January 26, 2008, The Grand Line Officers of the Grand Lodge of Maryland Installed the officers for Birmingham Lodge No. 188. This was one of the most well attended installations, as shown by the many Brethren and their ladies pictured below.

Happy Birthday, Grand Master! Masonic Chip Program Master Mason At Sight The Officers and Brethren of Centennial Brethren, Serving In Iraq Lodge No. 221 in Salisbury, Maryland request- This year we are embarking on a program Below is a photo of Brother Chris Ellette (MSG, ed of the Grand Master and his Grand Line that new to Maryland, but one that has been in use EOD) who was recently made a Mason at sight by he install the incoming Worshipful Master. successfully in many other jurisdictions around Most Worshipful Grand Master Biggs. the country. It is called MD Chip which stands for Maryland Child Identification Program. This program can provide an excellent way for your Lodge to become involved, or further involved, in your community, while providing families and young children in your neighbor- hood an outstanding and valuable service. However, it can only work if you and your Lodge agree to support it. A presentation will be given at each of the Regional Meetings – please attend and watch it, and I am sure you will be suitably impressed – I know I was. It is a very easy system to use, Coincidentally, the Installation fell on the even those that have never used a computer same day as the Grand Master’s Birthday, who can probably be up and running on it very quick- was more than happy to accept the invitation. ly. Everything is contained in a small suitcase, and includes the computer, fingerprint scanner, video camera, and printer. Each child can be fingerprinted, provide an audio clip and have a picture taken of him. Include some small bag- gies and que tips or cotton swab and a DNA swab can be taken. All of this information, other than the DNA swab, is then stored on a CD, the He is currently on tour in Iraq, but assures me swab can be placed in a small sealable baggie, that he is staying out of trouble... well, as much as and given to the family. No information is stored can be expected! I requested he send a current on the hard drive of the computer. It is important photo with the square and compasses patch I to impress this on people. gave him; it is sewn inside the top of his hat (but I hope you and your Lodge will attend the on display in this photo only). There is no set date Regional meetings, take a look at this system, for his return but I will post it when I find out. If Grand Master Biggs was surprised to discov- watch the demonstration, and agree to support anyone is interested in contacting him, his civilian er that the Lodge had arranged a birthday party it. A $15,000 donation was recently given to the email (that he is able to check semi-regularly) is: for the Grand Master. What an outstanding dis- Grand Lodge, and not specified for any particu- [email protected] play of Brotherly Love and friendship. lar purpose. I can’t think of a better way to use Brother Steve Hall, Chris and the rest of the the money, and I intend on using the funds from unit received the first box of coffee and love it! that donation to purchase 5 of these MD CHIP Fraternally, systems. A computer system will be sent to a Will Barrell Lodge in each of the five areas around the State. They will go to the first Lodge that con- Want a Maryland Tie? tacts me and offers to support the program. Due to the overwhelming demand for The system has already been used success- the Maryland Tie, the Grand Lodge of fully in Chester Lodge during a Christmas event, Maryland has sold the LAST of the 4 ties and was well received by the parents attending. in stock. There is a similar tie available One of our Southern Maryland Lodges has already reserved one of the two systems we at the following location: presently have in Grand Lodge for use at one of Cohen’s Clothiers 64 Cranbrook Road Above: Gerald Vannienwenhove, Worshipful their events in the Spring. Master of East Gate Lodge No. 216 with Right John R. Biggs Cockeysville, MD 21030 Worshipful Past Grand Master Ronald A. Grand Master 410-666-8022 Their price for the tie is $39.50 and can Aungst, PGM or Pennsylvania at the National be purchased directly through them. Treasure on the Avenue of the Arts Gala held at the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania December 1, 2007. 9 Supreme Tall Cedar Sinepuxent Endowment Fund Masonic Aprons & Collars George Morgan Sinepuxent Lodge No. 193 has experienced Worn Around the World George was born April some loss in membership over the last few years Belgium - The Grand Lodge Aprons are of light 6, 1937 in Allentown, Pa. due to the age of our members and the new blue silk, embroidered with gold fringe, without He graduated from ones coming into the lodge have not made up for tassels. The collars are embroidered with gold Allentown High School the loss. This condition is, I'm sure, experienced with the jewels of office, and with acacia and in 1955. George served other emblems. by our sister lodges across the state. With the in the U.S. Marine Egypt - The Grand Orient uses the same cloth- Corps. 1955-1959. He loss also comes a reduction of income from ing as England, but the colors are thistle and sea worked as a photo-tech- dues revenue. green. The rank of wearer is denoted by the nician for the Call We have to maintain our building and number of stars on his collar. Chronicle Newspaper grounds as we are part of our town and commu- Greece - In recent years the clothing has 1959-1968 and nity. The building is relatively new (1993) but become exactly identical with that worn in Bethlehem Steel things do wear out and have to be replaced. We England, although formerly silk and satin aprons Corporation 1968-1983. have over the years helped our loss of income painted and embroidered with crimson were He was a partner, secretary and treasurer of by serving meals, having raffles, and setting up worn. Lehigh Valley Photographic Services 1983- booths at community functions, but expenses for Germany - Aprons varied greatly in size and 1999 and retired in 1999. fuel and upkeep have increase dramatically forc- shape, from square to the shape of a shield. George and Judy were married in 1961. Some bear rosettes and others the level. There ing us to look for alternative, or better ways to They have 3 children Glenn, Diane and Barry, is no uniformity and German Lodges had jewels and 4 grandchildren Kimberly, Matthew, Nicole increase our income. We simply could not con- apparently according to the taste of each. and Glenn, Jr. tinue to operate in the red. Holland - Each Lodge selects its own colors for George was President of Church Council, At one our meetings it was suggested that we aprons and the ribbons to which the jewels are chairman of various committees, a representa- set up a trust fund or an endowment fund to give attached. Individuals may use embroidery, tive to Penn Northeast Conference for 10 years us an ongoing income. Out Worship Master fringes, etc., according to their own fancy. while at Trinity U.C.C. Church. He was Cub appointed a committee to look into this possibili- Hungary - The members of Grand Lodge wear Pack chairman and Webelos Den Leader for ty. We located a Community Foundation which is collars of light blue silk with a narrow edging of Cub Pack #309, assistant Scout Master Troop nonprofit to help us with this. As we are nonprof- red, white and green-their national colors-from #341, assistant Scout Master and Scout Master it, they agreed to set up a fund within their struc- which are suspended five pointed stars. The Troop #302. He received his Wood Badge ture. This fund would be granted the interest and Grand Lodge Officers wear collars of orange Beads 1977 and Order of the Arrow. He was color edged with green and lines with white silk. dividends each year of the Foundation's gains manager and treasurer of East End Little They are embroidered with the acacia and the League. less a 1% administration cost once the emblems of office. The aprons have a blue edg- George became a Mason in 1988 Bethlehem Sinepuxent Fund reached the $10,000 mark. ing with three rosettes for a Master Mason. Lodge #283, Master of Bethlehem Lodge #283 For the year of 2007 the Community Italy - The Entered Apprentice apron is plain in 1994 and 1995 and representative to Grand Foundation attained a good return amounting to white silk. The Fellow craft is edged and lined Lodge 1996 to present. He became a Tall Cedar close to 12.5%. Their total assets amount to with a square printed in the centre. The Master in 1989 Bethlehem Forest #61, Forest Trustee about $65,000,000. Mason wears an apron lined and edged with 1990 to1995, Grand Tall Cedar 1997, Tall Cedar We set our goal for the Lodge at $60,000 crimson, bearing the square and compasses. He Foundation Trustee District #8 1999-2001. He which, if we reaped the interest rate of say 10% also wears a sash of green silk, edged with red, was aide to J.D.S.T.C. 2002, aide to S.D.S.T.C. would give us $6000.00 each year from now on. embroidered with gold and lined with black on 2003 and aide to S.T.C. 2004, President of OPO Back in December we contacted our members which are embroidered the emblems of mortali- District #8 2003. George received the Tall Cedar ty in silver. It must be remembered, however, and related to them the impending crisis. We Foundation Trustee of the Year Award for the that Freemasonry for some time past has been year 2000. He became a 32nd degree Mason in asked our members to contribute to this fund in suppressed in Italy, the reason being that it inter- 1989 Valley of Allentown a member of the 15th the amounts of either $3000, $2000, or $1000 meddled in national politics. degree team 1991-2003. increments. This was a real shocker to our mem- Iceland - Plain white aprons, edged with blue, bership as most of us are on fixed incomes. bearing the number of the lodge. At the Annual Tall Cedars of Lebanon Some could easily afford it. Some, of course, Communication lambskins are worn with a nar- 2008 Goodwill Ambassador could not. But the committee explained that we row silver braid in the centre of the ribbon. In for- E. Claire Menke just could not see our Lodge fold because of lack mer days, the Worshipful Master always wore a Claire was born in of funds. red cloak and silk hat. Greenville, North The committee and active members could not Portugal - The aprons of the Grand Lodge Officers are of white satin, edged with blue and Carolina on May have anticipated the wonderful response to this gold and with three rosettes. The collar is made appeal. As of March 3rd the members have 15th 1995, and was of blue silk with the acacia embroidered in gold. diagnosed with pledged (over a three year period) $42,560 and Spain - The apron of the Entered Apprentice is SMA III at the age of of that figure $24,050 in cash have been of white leather, rounded at the bottom, with a nine at Johns deposited in the Foundation's fund for the pointed flap, worn raised. The Fellow craft wears Hopkins. Lodge. In less than three months this has hap- the same with the flap turned down, and the Middletown, pened. Even some of our Widows have con- Mason (Master) wears a white satin apron Maryland is home to tributed $3000.00. with a curved flap, edged with crimson, and Claire, her parents Kind Masonic Regards, embroidered with a square and compass, Jay and Daean, sis- Richard L. Bolen, Secretary enclosing the letter G. The letters M and B, and ters Emily and Sinepuxent Lodge No. 193 three stars also appear. It is lined with black silk and embroidered with the skull and crossbones. Amanda and broth- Switzerland - The clothing is simple. The er Alex. The family Entered Apprentice apron is white with the lower has two cats and two dogs, one being Claire’s corners rounded. The Fellowcraft has blue edg- service dog Xavier. ing and strings, and the Master Mason has a A seventh grader, she enjoys art, music, wider border and three rosettes in the body of swimming, and spending time with her friends the apron, while the flap is covered with blue silk. and family. Her other activities include her The apron of the Grand Officers is edged with church, MDA Camp and fundraising for MDA crimson, without tassels or rosettes, except in and 4Paws for Ability. Chinese, pizza, hamburg- the case of the Grand Master, which has three ers and steak are on the top of her list of favorite crimson rosettes. foods. 10 Successful Planning able during the year will dictate the overall pro- meeting and to end at a reasonable hour. For the Masonic Year gram, and this number is usually not known at • Define specific tasks. Organize the business A very good friend, and PGM in Ontario, the outset of the Masonic year. As a result, the portion so that it is accomplished smoothly. Canada sent me the following article. I read it long-range plan must be flexible. Some plan is Ensure that all participants in the work of the and found it to be excellent material, thus I am better than no plan, because a plan necessi- evening are well versed in their parts and including it in our FSFM - it should be partic- tates thinking and communication - two keys to know when to act. Ensure all Officers are ularly interesting, and informative for Lodge success and it will provide you with the founda- aware well in advance of any special require- officers, primarily the wardens as they prepare tion upon which to build a successful year. Be ments expected of them, e.g. that the for the East. The first line of the introduction creative - plan variety and strive for an interest- Deacons are aware that a ballot is to be con- is so true – things don’t just happen – YOU, as ing balance between your degree and social ducted. an officer of your Lodge, must make them programs. Degree work is fine, especially if you • Choose your strategies. Ensure all Officers happen. are blessed with a number of candidates. are prepared by holding educational meetings Remember, “All work and no play makes and practices. Try to foresee anything that Successful Planning For The Masonic Year Johnny a dull boy” - it also makes him a bored could arise during the meeting. Time all seg- This section provides Tips, Techniques and Mason, one who could turn away to other pur- ments and ensure that they are smooth flow- Tools that will not only provide help to the suits of enjoyment, and he may be lost to the ing. Worshipful Master in planning his Masonic Lodge forever. If you have lots of degree work, • Assign responsibilities. As noted previously, year, but always should be used to help the vary it, so that there are different degrees at you are the leader, so set the strategy. Assign Warden’s better prepared for the leadership regular meetings. Intersperse special interest tasks to the Secretary, Director of role they will undertake in the short years programs. Invite other lodges to participate. It is Ceremonies, other Officers and certain mem- ahead. Planning is a key management important that the Lodge Officers know their bers. Let each one know what is specifically responsibility. work and work the three degrees, even if you expected of him and establish controls to Introduction - Things, especially good have to borrow candidates from sister lodges, evaluate performance. Your map is only of things, do not just happen - you must make or exemplify certain degrees. This responsibili- value if you check it from time to time to them happen. This requires planning - and ty having been addressed, consider other spe- ensure that you are still on course. your plan should try to predict the unpre- cial programs such as: • Choose a capable Past Master to conduct dictable, so that, as Worshipful Master, you • A Past Masters Night, honoring an active Past practices and to assess actual performance are prepared to cope successfully with any Master by allowing him to conduct a degree during meetings. Encourage him to provide eventuality, from black balls in the ballot box, team of other Past Masters. constructive criticism. Only in this manner can to the unannounced arrival of the Grand • A Members Night, with a Past Master conduct- the Officers improve. Master himself. Planning is a key manage- ing a Degree Team consisting of members. ment responsibility. It provides the following What a wonderful way to keep their interest up benefits: and to uncover likely officer material. Maryland CHIP Program • It compels you to assess your goals and • Special Degree Teams, such as the R.C.M.P. Maryland Child objectives. or the Masters Group of some specific year. Identification • It promotes communication and co-ordina- • Fraternal Visits by Lodges, either from within Program (MDCHIP) tion with other members of the Lodge. or outside your own District or Grand addresses the • It provides definite expectations that are the Jurisdiction with the visitors doing the work of alarming fact that best framework for judging subsequent per- the evening. over 1,000,000 chil- formance. • Special programs of Masonic Education dren are reported As a line officer, it is easy to take for grant- and/or Instruction. missing in the ed the success of the meetings, but it must be • Special non-Masonic programs in the Lodge United States each recognized that hard work and planning are Room for family and friends of members. year, according to behind every successful meeting. • An Awards Night for the presentation of long the National Center Concentrate on determining the components service and other pins and certificates. for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). that you recognize as contributing to that suc- • Social functions, such as the annual Ladies On average, a child is reported missing every cess, both in your Lodge, and when you visit. Night, Christmas Party, barbecue, special func- 43 seconds. And do visit. There are many ideas worthy of tions for members and their families, and don’t At MDCHIP EVENTS, the Masons provide adopting which you will see at other Lodges. forget the widows of deceased members. the equipment, volunteers and materials neces- Be prepared in advance to be the In preparing your long-range plan for the sary to generate identifying items of your child Worshipful Master. There is no one sure road year, take full advantage of the expertise avail- in "completed packs" (not kits to be filled out by to success, but let’s look at what should con- able. Just because you are the leader does not you at home) for you to take home for safe stitute a successful plan. But first, let us rec- mean that you must carry the ball at each meet- keeping. In the event your child is missing, you ognize that our plan is our road map to suc- ing. Use the resources of your own Lodge and then provide the MDCHIP PACK to law enforce- cess, and, like any map, it is of no value if, do not forget to utilize the District talent avail- ment as an aid in recovery and identification. once prepared, it is stuffed into the glove com- able to you. There are District Officers in a num- MDCHIP is a part of MASONICHIP which is partment and forgotten. ber of disciplines who are anxious for the recognized by the NCMEC as one of the most Study your plan, revise it if circumstances opportunity to participate in Lodge meetings. comprehensive child ID services available and dictate - after all, it is your guide for a success- With your road map for the year completed, you all the identifying items in the pack are provided ful year! In reality, we should be talking of two are now ready to finalize its implementation. at NO COST to the general public. types of plan - the long-range plan, setting out Recognize at the outset, however, that the long- No information nor data is retained by any- your goals and objectives for your year as range plan must be flexible to address chang- one involved with MDCHIP. Only the permission Worshipful Master, and the short-term plan, or ing requirements as the year progresses and, slip is retained to document the number of chil- individual meeting plans, which obviously regretfully, that all your goals will probably not dren served. No copies of any ID materials are must be more precise, but in fact, are compo- be achieved, unless you have set your sights kept on file by any of the organizers; the parents nent parts of your Master Plan. too low! receive all ID materials and health information Long-Range (Master) Plan - In some Short-Term (Meeting) Plan - Develop your produced. lodges, it is traditional for the Master-elect to meeting plan (the detailed map) in a logical step To find out the Maryland CHIP program, meet with the Past Masters prior to Installation by step manner, and write down an outline to please send an email to [email protected] or which you can refer during the meeting. Do not to set out his plan of action and get their col- call the Office of the Grand Lodge at (410) 527- try to commit everything to memory. A good lective advice and guidance. If your Lodge 0600. does not now follow such a practice, you plan for each meeting should include the follow- should seriously consider instituting it - or ing elements: alternatively, set out your goals and objec- • Establish your objective. It may simply be to tives, as well as a plan to achieve them, and have a successful meeting. discuss them with a cross-section of Past • Set the goals necessary to achieve that objec- Masters. tive. Perform the work of the evening with digni- Obviously, the number of candidates avail- ty and decorum to ensure a smooth-flowing 11 Quatuor Coronati Lodge Attention Civil War Buffs! Installs First American Stephenson Lodge, No. 135 in Darlington Maryland will be featuring Edward H. Bonekemper, III who Worshipful Master will be giving a lecture entitled A Fresh Overview of the Civil War on May 7th, 2008. The lecture is open On Thursday, November 8, Quatuor Coronati to the public and will begin at 8:00pm in the Lodge room, following a quick business meeting. Lodge No. 2076 of London, the premier lodge of Mr. Bonekemper is a resident of Willow Street in Pennsylvania and graduated cum laude with a Masonic research in the world, installed Ill. S. Bachelor of Arts in American history from Muhlenberg College in Allentown, Pennsylvania. He received Brent Morris, 33°, Grand Cross, as its first his Masters in History from Old American Worshipful Master. The lodge was Dominion University in consecrated in 1886, and in 1888 it began pub- Norfolk, Virginia, and his J.D lishing its annual transactions, Ars Quatuor from Yale Law School in New Coronatorum, a collection of some of the finest Haven Connecticut. and most scholarly papers on Freemasonry. Stephenson Lodge is proud Full membership in the lodge is limited to forty, to offer this educational lecture though there are over 6,000 members of the to all of the Members of the Quatuor Coronati Correspondence Circle who Craft and to the public in gen- receive all publications of the lodge. eral. The Lodge's first Ill. Morris joined the lodge in 1993 as only the Worshipful Master was in the fourth American member. Three American Civil War as were many of the Masonic scholars preceded Morris (and are original members of now deceased) Ill. Dwight L. Smith, Indiana, Stephenson Lodge, providing Alphonse Cerza, Illinois, and Alex Horne, a strong connection to the California. Bro. W. Kirk MacNulty, 32°, Virginia, War. For more information is the only other living American member. please contact our Worshipful Master, Duane Duncan at 410-378-8696 or the Secretary at 410-457-5656.

The Maryland Travelers I Have A Question...... Camping Club, Inc. Can you ballot during the first or The Maryland second degree with an EA or FC Travelers Club, Inc. is a in the lodge room? group of people who Although only Master Masons may vote, the enjoy camping and fel- lodge may be open on any degree as the lowship. They start off Worshipful Master wishes. You can ballot on a About seventy Masons attended the installa- their fraternal year with petition for initiation, affiliation or re-instatement tion held at Freemasons’ Hall on Great Queen a dinner in March, on the first or second degree whether an EA or Street. Four American Masons came to see when the previous trav- FC is in the lodge room or whether he is not. their fellow citizen installed: Bro. Franz N. el master is thanked for None but Master Masons may vote on any Stuppard, 32°, from Bro. Morris’s lodge, Patmos his year, and the gavel is subject, and only those members who have No. 70, Ellicott City, Maryland, and Ill. Mark A. passed to the new travel master. They have received the degree upon which the lodge is Tabbert, 33°, Glen A. Cook, 33°, and Ronald A. seven camp-outs each year beginning in April open, may attend. Seale, 33°, Sovereign Grand Commander. After and ending in October. They try to select camp- To carry this further, any business of the the installation, Ill. Morris presented his inaugu- grounds no more than a two hour's drive for Lodge, other than a catechism examination or ral address, “Itinerant American Masonic every member. Degree conferral of a higher Degree, or the tak- Lecturers,” which will be published in Ars A travel master, elected each year, plans the ing up of the GMW, may be done in any Degree. Quatuor Coronatorum. schedule and activities. Normally the camp-out Most Grand Masters do not have a problem Following the meeting, the members and is from Friday through Sunday. However many with an enterprising EA or FC sitting in a chair guests retired to the Prince of Wales Pub for liba- of the members arrive on Wednesday or occasionally, however they can’t be appointed tions, dinner, and toasting. When addressing the Thursday to allow more time to visit. On Friday to a chair, nor can a Master Mason be elected brethren assembled around the festive board, evenings some go out to eat in a local restau- to an office until he completes the catechism of Bro. Morris observed, “We Americans are well rant. Later there is a large campfire. the Master Mason Degree. known for making declarations to our English Saturday mornings some visit yard sales. Worshipful Masters are encouraged to open friends….” Bro. Morris extends a special invita- Others go sightseeing, shopping, or exploring as many meetings as possible in the lower tion to all American Masons to attend a meeting followed by lunch together and bingo at 1:00. Degrees, that their EA and FC members may of Quatuor Coronati Lodge during 2008: Saturday evening is the covered dish dinner, attend, and feel a part of the Lodge. February 21 (program and dinner open to non- sometimes followed by wine and cheese, and Masons), May 9, June 26, and September 11. ending with another campfire. Sunday morning has church services followed by coffee and sweets. The Maryland travelers covers a wide area from Gettysburg, to Lancaster, pa. Past activi- ties have included boat rides, a visit to a winery, a visit to a farmers market. While many enjoy the fellowship of organized activities, others enjoy sight seeing, shopping or exploring on their own. There is something for everyone, and the fellowship, friendliness, and helpfulness of the group bring many happy memories. Mountain Lodge No. 99 has three brothers Perhaps you would like to join the Maryland Travelers. Add camping, fun, and new friends to all fifty-year member awardees. From left to your schedule. Come join them! For more infor- right: William Earl Williams, Lowell Neil Pictured seated center is Ill. S. Brent Morris, mation, contact Phil Short, Master of Travel at Williams, Ronel Neil William, and Earl Vernon 33°, Grand Cross, newly installed Worshipful 410-374-3911. Kroll (cousin and fifty year member.) Back Row: Master of Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 2076, Wesley Vinton Kroll, Worshipful Master and the premier lodge of Masonic research in the Gomer Morgan, fifty year member and a Past world, with active members of the lodge. Master of Mountain Lodge No. 99. 12