The Kansas Mason - Fall 2014

T

Volume 52 Issue 3

H E

V

O I C E

O F

K

A N S A S

M

A S O N R Y

The Kansas Mason

Fall 2014

A Publication of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas

TIES THAT BIND Grand Lodge and Kansas Masonic Foundation working together to benefit Kansas Masons

FROM THE GRAND EAST

Greetings from the Grand East, Brethren.

By Michael Halleran, Grand Master

As you read this,

By-Law § 3-621

but most recounted the same sad story –

many lodges have

For many years now, we have seen atten-

their lodges can’t meet for regular stated

gone dark for the

dance wane at our Annual Communications.

meetings, much less worry about attending

summer, but going

During the spring, I had the unpleasant task

the Annual Communication. Often their

dark or not, Mason-

of sending out letters to remind lodges that

members have moved away, leaving only

ic activity in Kansas

attendance at our Annual Communication at

three or four men left in town, in other

has been very active

least once in three years is a requirement of

cases the average age of membership was

since March and

Kansas Masonic law. I sent about sixty letters

seventy-five or eighty years old, and travel

we at Grand Lodge don’t anticipate slowing

out to lodges who have not had a represen-

to meetings – any meetings – had become

down any time soon.

tative attend in three years or more – which

problematic. For the majority however, all

is nearly one quarter of all of our lodges in

of these problems applied.

Surprise Visits

the state. I asked those lodges to reply to

I have endeavored to call every lodge

me in writing the reasons why they haven’t

that replied to me by the deadline to try to

attended according to the by-laws:

work through those issues with the Master or Secretary. We have explored ways to

As many of you know from subscribing to the Grand Lodge Facebook page, I have tried

3-621. Representation at Annual

solve the Annual Communication problem

to make it a priority to visit lodge meetings

Communication–Duty of Lodges–

as well as the problem facing these lodges

throughout the state (See related story on

Each Constituent Lodge of this Grand

that simply do not meet any longer. So, de-

page 22) and I, and those Grand Lodge offi-

Jurisdiction which has not been officially

spite the fact that I did not want to send out

cers who have attended lodge meetings with

represented in the Annual Communi-

those letters in the first place, I have had a

me, have enjoyed ourselves immensely! It

cation of the Grand Lodge for three

lot of very positive conversations as a result.

seems that once the shock has worn off, the

consecutive years may be cited to show

lodge officers and members have also had a

just cause why appropriate disciplinary

replies I have received which were extreme-

great time. Look for those visits to continue.

action should not be invoked.

ly unpleasant and accusatory – one might

(Adopted 1960)

receive such a reaction from the profane,

My only regret is that my schedule only

but to receive it from a brother Mason is

allows one of these visits per week – sometimes two – which limits me to only about

I have been surprised, however, at a few

Most lodges who received the let-

something unexpected.

At any rate, it is important that we

a third of our lodges. But, I will make a

ter simply wrote me back explaining the

concerted effort to visit as many different

reasons why they have not attended.

either obey the law, or change it. At present

parts of the state as I can. Until then, I look

Some mentioned the distance involved,

the Council of Administration is considering

forward to sitting in lodge with you.

others wrote about schedule conflicts,

some alternatives to the law as it is written,

2 THE KANSAS MASON

Kansas Masonic Foundation, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, Kansas 66614

During the spring, I had the unpleasant task of sending out letters to remind lodges that attendance at our Annual Communication at least once in three years is a requirement of Kansas Masonic law.

I have endeavored to call every lodge that replied to me by the deadline to try to work through those issues with the Master or Secretary.

WE HAVE EXPLORED WAYS TO SOLVE THE ANNUAL COMMUNICATION PROBLEM and as always, by-law change proposals from

the information and present it formally at the

he certainly enjoys a few moments by himself

the Craft can be considered at the Annual

ceremony. If you believe, as I do, that these

in the limelight.

Communication.

emblem presentations are very important to

Emblems

Lastly, one problem has arisen – solely

our members, I merely ask that you assist in

due to my error. In writing the ceremony I

making the event as memorable as it can be.

omitted sixty-five and seventy year emblems because I was under the impression that

In March, I issued an edict about emblem

Some members have asked why the

presentations and included a new emblem

spouses and family are not honored in the

Grand Lodge did not supply those emblems,

ceremony which I felt helped to standard-

East as well? This was a problem I considered,

believing instead that the lodges purchased

ize the wide array of presentations I have

but as our apron lectures are delivered to

witnessed in the past. This has caused a few

the man himself, I felt that the same

questions and at least one problem.

treatment was called for in honoring a

am revising the ceremony to

member for years of service. This does

include appropriate remarks

like an apron presentation and the recipi-

not prevent, and should not prevent the

for sixty-five and seventy

ent is called to the East, where the presiding

lodge from honoring any spouses or family

officer makes remarks of a Masonic char-

members in any way they see fit.

As you know, the ceremony is written

acter to honor the brother. One or two

If the Master has other awards,

them for their members. I have since learned differently and I

year members as well. The Council of Administration has also had new sixty-five and seventy-year emblems

lodge secretaries have felt that the Masonic

presentations, or honors to present,

record form used in the ceremony is unduly

nothing prohibits him from doing so. The

burdensome. That was not my intent. Grand

Grand Lodge portion of the program simply

Lodge makes these ceremonies a priority and

has those honored brethren to come to the

we try to have representatives available to

East so that the Grand Master, or his designee,

anyone who asks, even at very short notice.

might shine the spotlight on him alone. After

our many Grand Lodge appearances in the

All we request of the secretary is to collect

his long years in the quarries of Freemasonry,

near future, as always, on the level.

designed in the familiar sunflower pattern to replace the generic pins used previously. Stay tuned.

I look forward to meeting you at one of

FALL 2014 3

GRAND SECRETARY

by M.W. Tracy L. Bloom, PGM, Grand Secretary

Masonry Is A Journey—Returning Rewards Beyond Our Imagination

we really never quit learning (even PGM’s), as long as we have the desire for more light.

While I still consider myself mostly on the

Over the years of raising a daughter and two

never missed an opportunity to deliver one

receiving edge of Masonic Light, I try to

step sons, I’ve had several occasions to talk to

of my great responsibility orations didn’t I?

dispense as much as anyone will hear, but

Masonry, as you know, is a journey.

should do a better job of it. I think many

them, and my wife, about wants and needs!

Yes, they wanted the

Sometimes the journey is difficult and chal-

of our members are in that same frame of

latest fads just as all of

lenging, many times it returns to us rewards

thinking, while wanting and being desirous of

their friends did, shoes,

beyond our imagination. It teaches us many,

purses, games, cell

many things, the least of which is, that to be

phones, concert tickets,

successful, productive, engaged, and a benefit

cars, and so on, well

to yourself, your family, your church, your

you get the idea. Let

community, your lodge and your Brothers,

me tell you, I never missed an opportunity

you must take responsibility for your life and

to deliver to them one of my great ora-

actions and that starts within you. If we will

tions about wants and needs and what our

only follow the teachings and traditions of Ma-

neighbors were driving and how that wasn’t

sonry, the molding, honing and shaping of that

relevant to our driveway or garage. As you

spiritual stone within each of us will project

can imagine most of my words went from

positively to the rest of the community. Your

right ear to the left ear without slowing the

actions will affect others around you, good

least little bit while traversing the gray matter

or bad, and because we are Masons, let’s take

between the two. Or at least, that was my

some personal responsibility and make sure

perception at the time. It turns out that

those actions are indeed positive. Not for

some of those words did stick, which made a

gain of personal recognition or of rank, rather

difference, and me proud years later.

because that is the right thing to do, and we as

If my wife and I hadn’t taken the time to shape and guide our children by example, and passing on our knowledge to them

Masons, above others, should not only understand that, but live it every day.

It’s no wonder why Masons and the

Masonic Light, we hesitate to give it.

Let’s face it brothers, if we don’t give back, teach it to others, it will die with us, because surely none of us will escape that universal dominion of death. This, I believe, is one of our biggest problems in Masonry today, not passing on that Light we ourselves received all those years ago. The new members joining our fraternity today are hungry for Masonic knowledge. If we fail to pass it down to them, or fail to assist them in their own Masonic journey for more light, further light, they will leave as fast as they come in.

Please believe me when I say there are scores of the profane wanting, searching for Masonic Light. We need to be better at identifying them, culling out the unwanted, and assisting the worthy in their search. But I caution you, and this is my opinion, we, our Masonic fraternity, is not so desperate for members that we should take in everyone

(albeit limited, they say) we would have been

Masonic fraternity, through the ages, have

remiss in our duties as parents. It’s called

been revered as leaders in the community.

“personal responsibility”. As parents, we

By adhering to the Masonic principles that

excellent tenants of our institution to them,

all have a personal responsibility in manag-

have been handed down over the ages we

but they must be willing to receive the light

ing our daily family lives. I’ve seen too many

can hope to achieve and continue those

and pass it along to the next generation for

times in life, when something bad happens

distinctions. But, only if those tenants and

our posterity. Masonry is not for everyone

they tend to blame it on anyone else but

principles are handed down or transmitted

Brothers, but it is for those who are of good

themselves. My daughter once received a

to us, can we hope to improve ourselves and

character, high morals and have a deep desire

speeding ticket; during my inquisition she

Masonry. If you noticed in the last sentence

to become better themselves.

said to me it wasn’t her fault. Flabbergasted,

I included myself in that group that needs,

Whether you agree with me or not,

I asked, just whose fault it was, to which she

maybe wants, more Masonic Light, a Past

there is only one way to achieve those things

replied “the Policeman shouldn’t have been

Grand Master/Grand Secretary, wanting

I mentioned, and it is by each of us being per-

sitting where he was”, and therefore, it wasn’t

more light. I myself found that a bit perplex-

sonally responsible for our lives, our Lodges

her fault! Really! I did mention earlier that I

ing, and upon contemplation realized that

and our members.

4 THE KANSAS MASON

who can fog a mirror. We must be cautious and vigilant to transmit unimpaired the

INSIDE THIS ISSUE FEATURED ARTICLES FROM THE GRAND EAST 2 Greetings from the Grand

East, Brethren.

GRAND LODGE 7 Ties That Bind 8 Kansas Masonic Foundation—The New 10 A History of Giving 13 Newly Appointed Board Trustees 16 Leadership Academy Issues Relevant To Twenty-First Century Masonry

Frontier

18

Hear Ye Hear Ye:

20

A Few Words on Grand Lecturers:

21

Child Identification Program (CHIPs) Continues at Lodge Level

Planning a communication strategy

A Valuable—But Often Overlooked—Masonic Resource

FEATURE ARTICLE 22 There Is An ALARM At The Door 23 Double Up And Make It Happen!

25 Fulfilling Our Obligation— At Work

And Doing Good

DEPARTMENTS 4 GRAND SECRETARY Masonry Is A Journey

36 LODGE OF RESEARCH Diamonds in our Own Back Yard

6 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

38 BOOK REVIEW The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Freemasonry

26 FROM THE ARCHIVES Repaying a Loan From Our Children 29 MEMBER INTERVIEW Jerrod Nelson 31 AROUND THE WORLD Midwest Conference On Masonic Education Offers Valuable Guidance 32 MAKING A DIFFERENCE The Freemason Endowment Fund Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp

39 OUT AND ABOUT 43 SEEDS OF OUR FUTURE The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls 45 EVENTS CALENDAR 46 ASKED AND ANSWERED 48 FIRST KANSAS MASONIC FOUNDATION LODGE ONLINE AUCTION

New KMF Scholarships Are Off to a Winning Start 36 HOME WARMINGS Celebrating Our Accomplishments Along the Way

FALL 2014 5

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

www.kansasmason.org

The Kansas Mason I recently received a brochure outlining an ex-

also working with a number of statewide four-

tensive list of all of the Kansas Masonic Foun-

year colleges and universities on other program

dation programs. It clearly appears that KMF

initiatives that are also all Lodge based. The

has expanded the scope of their philanthropic

bottom line is that we operate with your money,

giving to include much more than simply fund-

and we want to make the awarding of that

ing KU Cancer Research. I like all of the Lodge

money as local Lodge based as possible, so it will

Programs that the KMF has developed, but I still have a special fondness for the older ones.

Why the change?

F

irst, and foremost, Kansas Masonic Foundation is still committed to the KU Cancer

Research program. The KMF, through Kansas Masons and friends of the Foundation, have given almost $25 million to this outstanding cause—and we are not stopping there. The KMF has endowments already in place that will ensure that a minimum of $150,000+ annually will continue to this fine program, in perpetuity, even if we decided to stop giving more money to that worthy cause completely, which, of course, we are not about to do.

The new programs that have recently been

maximize public exposure to—and appreciation of—all the good work that Kansas Masons and Kansas Lodges continually do for Kansans and Kansas Communities all across this great state.

I read with great interest in the last edition of the Kansas Mason about all of the exciting activities and events that went on during Grand Lodge Annual Communication. Being a 25+ year Mason, I have always wanted to attend but just never have. After reading about the event and seeing all of the pictures, I am definitely planning to attend next year!

T

he Grand Lodge Annual Communications is always a fun event to attend. This is the

one time of the year when 400+ Kansas Masons

developed by the KMF are initiatives that have

come together to visit, attend educational meet-

been suggested by Kansas Lodges, as we have

ings, find out what’s new in Kansas Masonry,

traveled the state and talked to Masons in many

and set policy for the future of the Craft. While

different locations. As a result, these are programs

there are many Brothers that come year after

that Masons statewide wanted your Foundation

year, at any given Annual Communication, you

to develop—so we listened, and we did.

will also find many first-time attendees. In most

You will see more and more such programs

cases, these “first-timers” quickly realize that it’s

developed in the future, and the goal will always

a fun and exciting event to attend and quickly

remain the same: to make every single program

turn in to annual attendees. Many Masonic

that the KMF originates spring directly from

spouses attend as well, and Grand Lodge has

what Kansas Masons have asked us to do. Now

arranged for special events for them to enjoy,

the awarding of all of our scholarships, as well

while the Masons-only events are taking place.

as the operations of all of our programs, takes

This past year’s 158th session was the larg-

place through the Lodges themselves, with the

est attendance in recent history and offered

help of local Masons. This includes The Free-

plenty of opportunities for visiting, education,

mason Endowment: Fulfilling Our Obligation,

and social interaction. Plans are already under-

the KMF Charities Matching Funds Program,

way for next year’s event, and the Grand Lodge

the Teacher/Student of the Day Program, the

is expecting an even larger group of attendees

Kansas Masonic All-State Band Camp, and the

from all across the state. So block these dates

Outreach Cancer Screening Clinics. The KMF is

on your calendar now: March 19-21, 2015.

If you have any questions that you would like addressed on Masonry, Grand Lodge, Kansas Masonic Foundation, Kansas Masonic Home, this publication or its articles, please send your questions to Editor@KansasMason.org or mail to Kansas Masonic Foundation, Attn. Kansas Mason Editor, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, Kansas 66614.

6 THE KANSAS MASON

Established 1963

The Kansas Mason is the official publication of the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Kansas, formally organized March 17, 1856.

The Kansas Mason is published quarterly (2/1; 5/1; 8/1; 11/1) at the direction of the Council of Administration from the offices of: The Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas 320 SW 8th Avenue Topeka, Kansas, 66603-3912 The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas, its officers or employees.

SUBMIT ARTICLES: by email to editor@kansasmason.org or mail to KMF Editorial 2909 SW Maupin Lane Topeka, KS, 66614 All submissions may be in electronic format or hard copy and become the property of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas.

Photos may be submitted through Flickr at www.flickr.com/groups/kansasmason/ No compensation is allowed or intended for any articles, photographs, or other material submitted or published.

NOTE: Permission to reprint material appearing in The Kansas Mason will be granted upon written request to the Grand Secretary from recognized Master Masons.

Other written requests will be considered by the Council of Administration. When reprinted, articles should note “Reprinted with permission of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. (month and year)”.

2014 by the MW Grand Lodge A.F.& A.M. of Kansas. All rights reserved. The Grand Lodge seal and the logos “Kansas Mason,” and “Kansas Freemasons/On The Level” are trademarks of the MW Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Kansas, and all rights are reserved.

©

Ties ThatBind

GRAND LODGE

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons

of Kansas and the Kansas Masonic Foundation are two separate and distinct

corporate entities, yet both serve the same constituent group—you—the Kansas Masons. To be effective, both must work diligently together in harmony to

support each other’s vision and goals. In the past, this has not always been the case, but today, and for the future, that is the firm commitment of both organizations.

By way of background, the Kansas Masonic

since closed down its 501(c)3 corporation, and

Foundation, a 501(c)3 charitable organization,

now gives the Foundation its full support.

was created by the Grand Lodge of Kansas

The path that brought us here has not al-

in 1966 during its 110th session, specifically to

ways been smooth. Some felt, for instance, that

serve as the philanthropic arm of Kansas Ma-

the KMF became too single-mindedly focused

sons. Its original stated mission was to “encour-

on a single initiative—KU Cancer Research—at

age philanthropy from Kansas Masons, their fam-

the expense of all its other programs and initi-

ily, and friends for charitable, educational, and

ates. No one can doubt the great work done

scientific programs.” Even today, almost 50 years

by Kansas Masons in support of KU Cancer

later, that larger goal is still the cornerstone of

Research, resulting in contributions of nearly

everything the Foundation does.

$25 million--and we are not stopping there.

Long before the Foundation existed, the

With the current endowments already in place,

Grand Lodge created its own programs and ini-

KU Cancer Research will receive in excess

tiatives that were philanthropic in nature, many

of $150,000 annually from the Foundation in

of which were very worthwhile, yet clearly

perpetuity. So the total Masonic contribution to

outside the purview of the Grand Lodge’s core

finding a cure for cancer will continue to grow

organizational activities. Many, for instance, re-

each and every year, and the Foundation—on

quired “charitable fundraising” to support them.

behalf of Kansas Masons—remains committed

At one point in the fairly recent past, the Grand

to this great and worthy cause.

Lodge even created its own 501(c)3, so it could

As those involved know, the relationship

develop its own charitable organization; this

between the Kansas Masonic Foundation

impulse was initiated because of the strained

and the Grand Lodge has not always been as

working relationship that had arisen between the two organizations. The Grand Lodge has

continued on page 9

Kansas Masonic Foundation—The New Frontier

By Michael J. Tavares, President

When Brother Bob Shively asked me to do a “photo shoot” to get a more current picture for this article I was hesitant because I am not fond of pictures. As I thought about the back drop for this picture, I kept coming back to the fact that I have been an explorer all my life. It began with me going to the first Special Operations Aviation Unit the Army as a new Army officer. That was a wild and new frontier for the Army at the time. I have always been interested in what is over the horizon; what is the next step. I selected the Frontier Army Museum for the “photo shoot”. In the picture, I am standing in front of a scene that depicts Lewis and Clark as they began their exploration of the new frontier. If you get the chance to visit Fort Leavenworth, go to the Frontier Army Museum. It is a great place to go to and reflect on how our forefathers struggled with fierce deter determination to explore the new frontiers of their day.

As I assumed the role as President of the Kansas Masonic Foundation (KMF), I realized that we had done so much for cancer research with the Kansas University Cancer Center (KUCC) the question became what is the next frontier? Do we continue as we have been doing or do we make a strategic change and begin to support not only cancer research but the other elements of our charter? This was the question posed to the Board of Trustees in November of 2013 at our strategic planning conference at Emporia State University. The decision was to make a strategic change. Although we will continue to support KUCC with at least $150,000 each year through an endowment that has been established, we decided that our new frontier was to begin to address our other two charges in our charter – Charitable giving to our communities and fulfilling our 3rd degree obligation and restructuring your Educational loan and scholarship programs.

What makes this the new frontier is that we are focusing our efforts on enabling the Lodges. In the past there was a perception that the brethren were always responding to giving requests from the KMF with very little tangible evidence of their efforts. Now our programs are depending on the Lodges in a very different way. If a Lodge needs to take care of a distressed worthy Brother, his widow and orphan, the KMF will match the fundraising efforts of the Lodge to provide a donation to the cause. The donation is presented by the Lodge not by the KMF. If you have a community project you want to support, we will help you in that support financially by matching your fundraising efforts dollar for dollar up to $1000.00. Then the lodge presents the combined check in their name – not the KMF. We have other new programs that will raise the visibility of the Lodge in the community by having the Lodges conduct presentations to Teacher and Students of the Day Programs and presenting educational scholarships to the more than 140 scholarship recipients this year alone.

I hope you and your Lodges will join the KMF in exploring the new frontier. It is exciting to see the new frontier and visualize the great strides we can make together for Kansas Masonry and our communities. The Board of Trustees have made a commitment to team with the Lodges because we believe that our collective successes will benefit Kansas Masonry as a whole.

8 THE KANSAS MASON

GRAND LODGE Ties That Bind continued from page 7

sphere of charitable giving, improving the lives of

cordial as it might have been. There is no point

Kansans, Kansas Communities, and Brother

in rehashing in detail a less than ideal part of the

Masons across the state. Some of the most

past. Rather it should be noted that only trying

recent programs developed include these (please

times give good men the chance to show what

see the sidebar for a complete list of all Founda-

they are really made of. M.W. Donald Dean

tion programs with summary descriptions):

Newman, PGM deserves a great deal of credit for starting to bring the relationship between the

• Freemason Endowment— Fulfilling Our Obligation

two bodies to a better place, and M.W. Fredrick

• Legacy Scholarships for Kansas Masonic Descendants

(“Rick”) W. Reichert, PGM is similarly deserving

• Annual Higher Education Scholarships

for steadfastly assuring the consistent record of

• Technical/Trade School Scholarships

improvement never wavered.

• Grand Lodge Essay Contest

And a third party also played a major part.

KMF President Michael J. Tavares showed exem-

• Teacher & Student of the Day Program

plary insight when he saw that what the situation

• KMF Charities: A Lodge-Based Matching-Funds Program

really needed was the recruitment of a man with a

• Supporting Our Masonic Youth Program

varied and proven track record that had given him

And all that is just the beginning! To put a new

a special set of skills. So when he met Robert A.

twist on what Al Jolson used to say years ago,

Shively, CAE, he knew he had found just the man

“You ain’t seen nothin’ yet.”

for the job. With a resume that included over 16

The Grand Lodge and Kansas Masonic

years of service as a Professional Executive who

Foundation have a long legacy of treasuring our

had worked successfully in many different con-

shared values. Because what they do is built on

texts, including with leading international organiza-

the principles of a higher reality, Masons know

tions and foundations, Robert stood out as exactly

there is something else that animates what we

who the circumstances called for. As Mike said in

see, something infinitely more important than

an address at this year’s Annual Communication,

what we measure, what we track and what we

when the work was underway to choose the new

do day to day. It is mysterious, hard to describe,

Executive Director of the Foundation, they’d only

invisible to the eye and sometimes difficult even

been hoping to find a nugget of gold. But instead,

to imagine.

in Bob, they found “a goldmine.”

And in part due to that lucky strike, which

Yet when we come together as Masons in celebration of our shared heritage, in the spirit

was really far more a matter of the thoughtful

of our ongoing inquiry into how we can continue

diligence of the miners involved than of anything

to improve what is already good, we know it, and

like luck, things are looking good again. As the

we feel it. Only together can we experience what

Foundation looks to the future—enjoying as it

our Fraternity is truly all about. Despite the small

does, the full cooperation of the Grand Lodge

things that can seem so large and sometimes

under the revolutionary leadership of new Grand

manage to push us apart, we never lose what

Master, M.W. Mike A. Halleran—great things are

it takes to bounce back again, to once again

happening. The Foundation is rapidly building

walk the high road as Brothers.

and developing programs to further expand its

We always have the Ties That Bind!

FALL 2014 9

GRAND LODGE

Giving

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

“What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal.” Albert Pike

A History of

Masonic charity has a long history – with the oldest documented mention dating around 1380. Most people know that Masons

promise to help each other, but many do not know that the majority of Masonic giving benefits the whole community – not just fellow Masons.

OUR MISSION TO BENEFIT KANSANS BY FUNDING CHARITABLE PROGRAMS

OUR VISION TO BE THE PREMIER MASONIC FOUNDATION SERVING HUMANITY

Often, our brothers learn of a need and qui-

Our Values & Common Beliefs – WE BELIEVE: Men of good character provide strong selfless leadership In fostering a brotherhood of dutiful stewards Charity beyond ourselves strengthens our communities A Supreme Being guides our decision making

1

a legacy scholarship, which will be available,

etly put together some money or volunteers

Kansas Masonic Scholarships •

as the name suggests, only to the legacies of

to help. But, sometimes, more resources

Since its inception, the Kansas Masonic

Kansas Masons. The second will be aimed at

are needed, and that’s when the Foundation

Foundation (KMF) has provided scholar-

students who elect to take a non-academic

comes in.

ships and low-interest loans to college-and

route and attend an in-state technical school.

university-bound students throughout the

And the third type will be available to all

Masonic Foundation’s philanthropic efforts

state. As of the end of 2013, the Kansas

Kansas residents who elect to attend one of

began – to help when more resources were

Masonic Foundation was providing $1.4 mil-

seven Kansas institutions of higher learning.

needed. Founded by the gifts and bequests

lion in academic support, in the form of 236

In addition, the Cynthia Ruth Russell memo-

of Masons and others, the Foundation has

student loans and 135 scholarships, to stu-

rial Scholarship Endowment for Persons with

funded many worthwhile projects that have

dents all over Kansas – and those numbers

Disabilities is also available.

been true to the Masonic Mission, Values,

just keep growing.

Nearly half a century ago, the Kansas

Common Beliefs, and Credo: “Dedicated to

In late 2013, the Kansas Masonic Founda-

This varied array of awards, which adds up to over 150 scholarships and hundreds of

tion Board of Trustees, with an eye toward

thousands of dollars in new giving annually,

making the academic aid it offers as widely

will be presented to students by local Kansas

work that the Kansas Masonic Foundation is

and easily available as possible, voted to dis-

Lodges and administered by the KMF; ap-

doing – from advancing science and education,

continue the loan program and direct almost

plication for these scholarships now takes

to improving the health of our Kansas com-

$250,000 annually to scholarship awards

place only online, and the complete applica-

munities. Thank you for your interest in and

alone. Going forward, the KMF will offer

tion details for all of them can be found here:

support of the Kansas Masonic Foundation.

three main kinds of scholarships. One will be

http://kmfonline.org/#scholarshipguidelines

Serving Humanity.”

No other charity in Kansas is doing the

10 THE KANSAS MASON

2

Institute moves steadily closer to being

3

Kansas Masonic All-State

KU Cancer Research Program • Kansas

declared a Comprehensive Cancer Center,

Marching Band Camp

Masons began supporting the University of

the highest NCI designation that exists, the

• 2013 marked the 30th straight year that

Kansas Cancer Center four decades ago in

ongoing financial support of Kansas Masons

the Kansas Masonic All-State High-School

1974. On September 21 of that year, during

for the “Beyond the Quest” campaign dem-

Marching Band has entertained attendees

the dedication of the Oncology Center in

onstrates that the Masonic resolve to fight

of the Kansas East-West Shrine Bowl, with

the KU Medical Center, Masons and the

against this terrible disease will not stop in

the net proceeds of the game going to the

Kansas Masonic Foundation were recognized

the years ahead, as Masons will continue to

Shriners Hospitals for Children. The idea of

for their support of outreach programs at

contribute approximately $150,000 per year

the band – and its related camp – originally

the Center. According to the Foundation’s

to this very worthy cause through endow-

developed to fill a void at the summer Shrine

minutes, “This was indeed an event which is

ments – until a cure is finally found. And

Bowl, when most high school bands were

now a monument to the Masons of Kansas

until that great day, thousands of Kansans are

not available. Participants in the band attend

for their contributions in aiding mankind

already leading better, healthier lives due to

a week-long music camp and training session,

and serving the residents of Kansas in a

Masonic support of cancer research, gener-

organized each July by the Kansas Masonic

most tangible and humanitarian way. The

ally, and of the equally successful related

Foundation and staffed by music profession-

ones who use this well-appointed treat-

program described next.

als from Kansas universities, which prepares

ment center surely must think kindly of our

them to do the best job possible when they lead an exciting Shrine Parade on the morning of the game, before performing during both the pre-game and halftime festivities later the same day. The band also performs just before the Shrine Bowl Banquet, which takes place the night before the big game.

Since 1984, the camp has been held at a variety of locations across the state with approximately 225 students participating each year. To date, well over 5,000

NO OTHER CHARITY IN KANSAS IS DOING THE WORK THAT THE KANSAS MASONIC FOUNDATION IS DOING –

FROM ADVANCING SCIENCE AND EDUCATION, TO IMPROVING THE HEALTH OF OUR KANSAS COMMUNITIES.

efforts. We are told that it is being

4

used by an ever-increasing number

Kansas Masonic Foundation Free Cancer

of patients and that the modern

Screening Outreach Clinics • As an impor-

approach in the mechanics of the

tant offshoot of its older, global support for

treatment they receive is fully in

KU Cancer Research, the Kansas Masonic

keeping with the whole program.”

Foundation launched its Outreach Cancer-

In the years since, the total

Screening Clinic Program on October 22,

provided by Masons to fight cancer

2003, in Hoxie, Kansas. With the active help

has reached nearly $25 million. But

of local Masonic Lodges, it provides 5-8

even as early as 2005, the Ma-

public clinics per year at locations across the

sonic contribution to this cause was

state. Each clinic features testing for prostate

already so significant that, at the

and skin cancer – as well as bone density

suggestion of the University of Kan-

scans and breast cancer risk assessments –

sas, the name of the Kansas Cancer

all completely free of charge. KU Medical

Center was officially changed to the

Center staff are on hand to perform the pro-

sponsored students from across Kansas have

Kansas Masonic Cancer Research Institute.

cedures and to answer questions from the

played a part in the decades-long success

As a further result of Masonic giving, The

public. These clinics perform a valuable public

of the event. Camp fees are sponsored by

Patient Navigator $1 million Endowed Fund

service by embodying the Kansas Masonic

Masonic and Shrine organizations throughout

has been fully funded, while The Psycho-

Foundation’s enduring goal to be of service

the state.

Oncologist $1 million Endowed Fund is

to all mankind. The early detection that the

over half way to the same goal. And in the

program provides has saved lives, and many

students at camp each year, including The

summer of 2012, also with the help of

hundreds of people have been helped in

Outstanding Musician Award, The Masonic

Kansas Masons, KU achieved the prestigious

the program’s history. In a recent reporting

Pride Award, and The Jeff Atherly Inspira-

National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation

period alone, 466 Kansans, some of whom

tional Award – all emphasizing the qualities of

as a Cancer Center.

Three awards are given out to deserving

leadership and excellence in today’s youth.

As the Kansas Masonic Cancer Research

continued on page 12

FALL 2014 11

GRAND LODGE

program aimed at doubling the financial good

numerous entries – including many wonderful

A History of Giving

that individual lodges can do to meet the

essays – for well over half a century.

charitable needs they fund.

continued from page 11

THE

Any of the 230+ Kansas Masonic Lodges

were alerted to potentially dangerous cancer-

across the state can choose one or more

GRAND LODGE KANSAS ANCIENT FREE & ACCEPTED MASONS of

7

AT THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE MASTER, WARDENS & MEMBERS OF:

BEING DESIROUS OF PROMOTING THE LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES, AND TO CONTRIBUTING TO THE BETTERMENT OF ALL MANKIND, by recognizing those teachers in our community who have set high standards in leadership, scholarship, integrity, and citizenship, hereby recognizes:

Teacher and Student

as an

EXEMPLARY TEACHER for exceptional achievement and dedication deserving of the esteem of the Masons of Kansas, and the officers and members of the Grand Lodge of Kansas.

WHEREFORE, I have set my hand and the seal of this Grand Lodge on the day and year last below written.

ous conditions they were not aware of before

charitable causes they support financially, fill

of the Day Recognition

attending one of these clinics, have received

out some relevant paperwork, and mail it in

Program • Continuing

potentially life-saving treatment and advice.

to the KMF. The Foundation will then match

its well-established commitment to recognizing

This important program not only furthers the

that lodge’s level of financial commitment

and encouraging excellence in Kansas educa-

work of the Midwest Cancer Alliance at the

to the cause(s) in question, up to a total of

tion and learning, the KMF, in conjunction with

University of Kansas, but also allows commu-

$1,000, annually, allowing Kansas Masonic

the Masonic Lodges across the state, offers

nities statewide to see the long-standing com-

Lodges to do twice the amount of good for

a Teacher and Student of the Day Recogni-

mitment of Kansas Masons – to keep fighting

the same amount of money.

tion Program. Teachers and members of the

Fulfilling Our Obligation Program FUNDED BY THE FREEMASON ENDOWMENT “Kansas Masons have taken the lessons of friendship, morality and brotherly love and have applied these virtues to our daily lives. To our country we are faithful. In our communities we are generous.

To our neighbors, we are always willing to pool our resources and hand them over without hesitation.

We have given our time our resources, and our money, to our communities, and our neighbors.

We have always answered the call for support. We do these things because as masons we have been taught to practice charity.

6 Grand Lodge Essay

Most of us feel that the obligation is especially acute when the Brother or widow is elderly; but, young or old, we have promised to Fulfill Our Obligation.”

4

Financial Assistance Application for a distressed Kansas Master Mason, his Wife, Widow, or Mother; or a Masonic Orphan.

Contest • In 1959,

(Note: A Masonic orphan is defined as a minor child who has lost his or her Master Mason father.)

UBLIC SCHO IC P OL ON

CONTEST SAY ES

light it deserves.

2013 STATE M AS

cancer until that fight is won – in the positive

GRAND MASTER OF MASONS

WORSHIPFUL MASTER

DATE:

Administration of each school will choose each winning student, while the winning teachers will be chosen by each school’s Administration.

WINNER

These awards will commemorate the ex-

The Grand Lodge

emplary achievement of the teachers and stu-

of Kansas placed Kansas Masons on a path

dents so honored with a handsome certificate,

toward the creation of an annual statewide es-

presented by local lodges and administered by

The Kansas Masonic Foundation (KMF)

say contest for seniors in Kansas public schools.

the KMF. One such award will be given each

established an important new funding initia-

A new and timely essay topic is created each

year to one teacher and one student in every

tive in late 2013 – the Freemason Endow-

year, and eight cash awards are given annually,

Preschool/Kindergarten – 12th grade public

ment. This $1.5 million endowment includes

which include $4,000 for first prize, $3,000 for

school in the state, starting in 2014.

an initial investment of $600,000 in the form

second, $2,000 for third, $1,000 for fourth,

of a Trust Gift from Edward and Bernice

and four Honorable Mention prizes of $500

Seidel, and $160,000 from the Grand Lodge.

each, for a total of $12,000 in cash prizes.

The Freemason Endowment: Fulfilling

As Masons we were taught in our Lodges: • to aid and assist our poor or distressed • charity is the distinguishing characteristic of Masons • that we promulgate the principles of Brotherly love and RELIEF These duties are carried out both individually and through our Lodges. Our local Bodies are the closest organizations to our members and the most likely to know when a Brother is in need. Thus, it is important that all Lodges continually monitor their membership through personal contact, committees, surveys, etc.

This fraternal concern of our members never ceases.

Our Brothers in distress may have many different needs.

A member may need…

• a screen door repaired or a shelf replaced • assistance in shopping for groceries or prescriptions • transportation to the doctor • companionship or visitation with quality time to combat loneliness, or just stay in touch

Our Obligation •

• financial assistance

This financial assistance application must be discussed and approved at a stated meeting and then forwarded to the Kansas Masonic Foundation.

The Lodge is counted upon, as a normal course of their business, to conduct an adequate investigation of all the factors surrounding this request for assistance.

This investigation must include a personal visit with both the member and his/her family.

Answers to the questions on this form do not automatically determine the approval or denial of the application. This is information intended only to help the Foundation understand the recipient’s needs.

The Lodge, as a part of its fraternal commitment, is expected to provide what volunteer and financial assistance it can. Most needs are not financial. Many needs can be met by the local Lodge sharing its time, talent, and its own financial resources with its member.

Occasionally, the need will be large enough for financial assistance from the Fulfilling Our Obligation Program. Both The Grand Lodge of Kansas and Kansas Masonic Foundation want to be there to help our Brothers.

Working together we can assure that no Brother, his Wife, Widow, or Mother; or a Masonic Orphan will ever go without our help of Fulfilling Our Obligation!

Such generous giving paved the way to create

Representatives of the state’s Masonic

8 Helping Our Masonic Youth Program • There are three

this new fund, specifically designed to help

Lodges visit each high school in their respec-

organizations for young people

Kansas Master Masons, as well as Masonic

tive jurisdictions every year to review the

in Kansas that exist to instill the

wives, mothers, widows, and orphans, in their

program and elicit participation. All essays are

kinds of high ideals Masonry

times of need. As part of their Obligation,

submitted to local Kansas Masonic Lodges,

stands for. These are Rainbow

Masons promise to give these special people

which judge them and submit the best ones

Girls, Job’s Daughters, and DeMolay. In order

the help they need. This program, managed

received to the Grand Lodge for further con-

to ensure the most effective, targeted use

cooperatively by the Kansas Masonic Founda-

sideration, with the essay winners announced

of funds possible – and to be sure that suf-

tion and the Grand Lodge of Kansas, helps

in February of each year.

ficient funding exists for each group’s key

them live up to that sacred promise.

Kansas Masons believe that a strong public school system is important to the continued

5

KMF Charities Kansas Masonic Lodge Matching Funds Program

APPLICATION

initiatives – the KMF awards grants to each of these organizations to provide them with

freedom of our nation, as well as to the contin- Program/Initiative Funding. The organizations

KMF Charities • In its

ued vibrancy of Masonry, which contributed to

simply apply to the KMF for the money they

constant effort to benefit

the creation and ongoing support of this con-

need to fund projects and other initiatives

Kansas communities, the

test. The KMF funds this valuable and widely

that further their missions, and the KMF

respected event, which has been attracting

supplies the necessary funds.

KMF has begun a new

Kansas Masonic Foundation, 2909 SW Maupin Lane, Topeka, Kansas 66614; (785) 357-7646; Fax (785) 357-7406

12 THE KANSAS MASON

NEWLY APPOINTED BOARD TRUSTEES Victor J. Henke, Jr.,

Mikel J. Stoops,

Trustee

Trustee

(3-Year Term)

(1-Year Term— Presidential Appointee)

Victor was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma and moved to

Mikel spent his youth in

Holland, Indiana after his

north central Indiana, mov-

father passed away. He

ing to Kansas in 1995.

He is a 4th generation

graduated from Holland

Mason and learned about

High School, following that with both a Bachelor of Science degree from Purdue University and a

Freemasonry from his maternal grandfather, who was an Indiana and

Masters from the Florida Institute of Technology.

Ohio Mason for almost 70 years, before his passing in 2013.

He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant of Infantry in June

Mikel is proud to wear a Square and Compass that has been

of 1968, as part of the Purdue University ROTC, where he was

passed down to him from his great grandfather. He also had the privi-

certified as Airborne and Special Forces Qualified. He was stationed

lege of returning to Indiana in 2013 to raise his father in Tippecanoe

domestically at Fort Riley and Fort Bragg, serving overseas in Vietnam

Lodge #429.

and Korea. He held various positions in infantry units, until he retired

In 2009, Mikel began his own Masonic journey with a brief discus-

as a Lieutenant Colonel after 24 years of service to his country as a

sion with a coworker, Duke Neeland, at a company Christmas party.

Command and General Staff Instructor Team Chief.

Duke’s Shrine pin started the conversation, and by the end of it, Mikel

Victor served as adjunct professor of Financial, Strategic, and

had decided it was time he joined the Masons, so he told Duke that

Small Business management at Park University from 1985-1997. From

thanks to their talk, he planned to petition De Soto Lodge #40. Duke

1992-1999, he also worked as the business manager of the Correc-

recounts that at the time, he thought Mikel was joking, but is now

tion Corporation at Leavenworth Detention Center. After that, from

quite pleased the he was serious.

1999-2009, he was employed as a defense contractor at the CU-

After being raised, Stoops quickly advanced through the chairs to

BIC Defense Corporation; and as a Military Systems Analyst, a Staff

be Master of his Lodge in 2013. He also served as Grand Marshal for

Analyst, and an Information Management Officer at the Combined

2013-14 and is currently serving as District Deputy Grand Master for

Arms Center in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas; besides working as both

District #4 from 2014-15.

an Information Management Officer and a Knowledge Management

Mikel and his wife Pamela live in Baldwin City, Kansas, where they

Officer in the Department of the Army Civilian at the National Simu-

own the Three Sisters Inn Bed and Breakfast. Mikel is the Innkeeper,

lation Center in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.

and Pamela has a career outside of the inn.

Victor has been married for 37 years to Sharon R. Short, who is also a Purdue graduate, making them a pair of matched Boilermakers. They have two daughters, Sarah R. Henke Shafer, herself a Boilermaker, and Sandra R. Henke, who broke with family tradition by making a choice that Victor called “a great move!” –she graduated from K-State and became a Wildcat. Both daughters now reside in the Leavenworth-Lawrence area, as do Victor and Sharon.

FALL 2014 13

NEWLY APPOINTED BOARD TRUSTEES David C. Eckert,

Frederick (Rick) W. Reichert

Trustee

Jr., PGM, Trustee

(3-Year Term)

(3-Year Term)

Born in Hardtner, Kansas,

Rick was born in Abington

David was raised in Kiowa,

and raised in Glenside, both

Kansas and graduated from

near Philadelphia in Pennsyl-

Kiowa High School. He met

vania. He graduated from

and married his love, Brenda,

Germantown Academy in

at Northwestern Oklahoma

Fort Washington and Temple

State University in Alva, Oklahoma, where they both graduated in May

University in Philadelphia. It was at Temple that he joined the Army

of 1970. David worked as an Office/Business Manager for automotive

ROTC program and received both a three year scholarship and a

dealerships in Garden City, Great Bend, and Wichita from 1970-1979.

Regular Army commission as a Second Lieutenant in the Signal Corps.

He and his family then moved to Hugoton, where he worked as an

During an assignment to Fort Chaffee, Arkansas he met, courted and in

accountant, followed by 18 years in the natural gas industry, and 8

1982 married the former Janet Long of Trona, California. Together they

years at Berkeley Medical before he retired. In addition, David has done

enjoyed an adventurous military life with Rick attaining a Master’s of

sports reporting for newspapers and play-by-play broadcasting on radio

Science in Systems Technology from the Naval Postgraduate School in

and TV for 25 years, besides engaging in many other community-

Monterey and reaching the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Duty included

enrichment activities. He also enjoys watching most sporting activities

two tours in Germany and posts throughout the United States. At the

(especially those with his grandkids involved).

end of an assignment as an instructor at the Command and General

David was raised as a Master Mason in 1989 in Hugoton Lodge

Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, he retired from the military in 2000.

#406, where he is a Perpetual Life Member and has served as Master

Since then, Rick has been employed by Sprint in various assignments

in 1993, 1998, 2007, and 2014, winning the Masters Achievement

in their Overland Park based Network Services group. Rick and Janet

Award in 1993 and 2007 and the award for Outstanding Mason in

have resided in Lansing since 1997.

1994. Among his numerous other Masonic credits, he served the

Rick was raised a Master Mason in 1988 after having been given

Grand Lodge of Kansas area Deputy Grand Master of Area 9 in

all three degrees by his father, Fred, Past Master, 1990, of Warren

1993-1995, Grand Standard Bearer from 2000-2001, Grand Junior

Lodge #310 in Collegeville, Pennsylvania. Rick became active with

Steward 2003-2004, Assistant Grand Tyler 2003-2004, and Grand

Hancock Lodge #311 on Fort Leavenworth in 1998 and after serving

Junior Deacon 2012-2013—and currently serves as the Grand

in positions of the progressing line became Master in 2003. He served

Representative of the Grand Lodge of the Philippines.

as District Deputy Grand Master the following year and Area Deputy

David and Brenda have two children and six grandchildren and have

Grand Master in 2006-2007. He served as Grand Junior Steward in

hosted fifteen foster children in their home. They are members of the

2007 and was then appointed Grand Senior Deacon in 2009 by M:. W:.

Ulysses Chapter #471 Order of The Eastern Star and Charter

Roy T. Sullivan, Jr. PGM which then led to his serving as Grand Master

Members of the Lapland Masons. David is also a Life Member of

of Mason in Kansas 2013-2014. Rick has been serving as the Grand

Scottish Rite and is a 32nd Degree Mason, having served as secretary

Representative to Connecticut since 2012. He is a 33° IGH member

of the Southwest Scottish Rite Club. He has held the head office for

of the Armed Forces Consistory of the Scottish Rite, a Noble of Ab-

all three York Rite Bodies in Liberal, Kansas—Chapter #65, Council

dallah Shrine of Overland Park, a Past President of Fort Leavenworth

#5, and Commandery #55—and is also a member of Jay A. Sheldon

Chapter #154, National Sojourners, Past Commander of Old Frontier

Order #117, Sword of Bunker Hill, in Dodge City, KS. David’s son,

Camp, Heroes of ‘76®, and Past Patron of Byington Chapter #177,

Marcus, is now the Senior Steward of Hugoton Lodge, while his

Order of the Eastern Star, in Leavenworth. Rick and Janet enjoy travel-

grandson, Takoda, is Hugoton’s youngest Entered Apprentice.

ing, geocaching, volkssporting, photography and amateur radio.

14 THE KANSAS MASON

Herbert F. Merrick, Jr.,

B. Cole Presley, GJW,

Trustee

Trustee (Grand Lodge

(3-Year Term)

Representative)

Herb was born in Yokohama,

Cole has spent almost his

Japan the oldest son of a

entire life in Kansas. He first

career Army Officer, but

learned of Freemasonry

grew up in Forsyth, Missouri

when he became a Police

where his family settle on the

Officer in Hill City, Kansas,

farm, that he still oversees.

where he was mentored by

He was raised in November of 1974 in the Forsyth Lodge No. 453.

the Sheriff and the Chief of Police. He went on to petition and be

He graduated from Missouri State University in May of 1975 and was

initiated, as well as being passed and raised, all in 2001.

commissioned in the US Army as field artilleryman. In June of that

Since that time, Cole has served in every chair in his Mother

year he married Carolyn and they spent the next twenty two years

Lodge except treasurer, not to mention being elected District Deputy

traveling the world. Herb has sat in a lot of lodges, but was only active

Grand Master for the 35th District. He was also chosen to be Area

in one before moving to Kansas. He held a variety of offices in Forget-

Deputy Grand Master for Area 10, besides serving a partial term as

Me-Not 896 in the American Canadian Grand Lodge of Germany

Assistant Grand Tyler, before being appointed Grand Senior Deacon

during his five years serving in that country, including secretary for

in 2013. Cole is a Charter Member of Justice Lodge No. 457 and cur-

two years. In 1994 Herb, Carolyn and their daughter Kristina settled

rently serves as that Lodge’s Master.

in Lansing Kansas and Herb joined Hancock Lodge No. 311 on Fort

Cole and his wife of 11 years, Nikki, still live with their children,

Leavenworth. He served as Master in 2004 and again in 2009. He

Cody, Paige, and Mitchell, in Hill City, where he is now the Sheriff of

has held every office in the lodge except Treasurer. He served the

Graham County. In his spare time, Presley enjoys fishing, hunting, and

Grand Lodge as District Deputy in 2009, as Grand Pursuivant in 2013

coaching kid’s athletic teams, particularly when the sports involved are

and Grand Marshal in 2014. He has also been on a number of Grand

wrestling and baseball.

Lodge Committees.

Herb belongs to the Armed Forces Scottish Rite, Leavenworth and Heidelberg York Rite bodies, Greeter of Abdallah Shrine, Byington Chapter No. 177 OES as well as Haworth Chapter No. 32 OES and the National Sojourners of Fort Leavenworth. He has been the treasurer of Pilgrim Community Church for the last thirteen years.

Kristina lives in Washington DC with her husband Nick and their daughter Evelyn.

Herb teaches at the United States Army Command and General Staff College. In his spare time he likes the shooting sports, hunting, golf, and reading particularly ancient and military history. Plus going to see Evelyn whenever there is a chance.

“WHAT WE HAVE DONE FOR OURSELVES ALONE DIES WITH US; WHAT WE HAVE DONE FOR OTHERS AND THE WORLD REMAINS AND IS IMMORTAL.” ALBERT PIKE FALL 2014 15

Leadership Academy GRAND LODGE

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

Issues Relevant To Twenty-First Century Masonry Set for Saturday,

and accommodating Capital Plaza in 2013.

have to look for a bigger venue next year.”

“We have listened to the Craft, and are

A special feature this year will include

November 1 at the

Cliff Porter Keynote Speaker

Capital Plaza Hotel

trying to give them exactly what they want,”

two breakout sessions hosted by the Grand

in Topeka, the 2014

said Deputy Grand Master Daren Keller-

Lecturers on topics similar to what may be

Leadership Academy is

man. “The response has steadily grown each

discussed in a restructured District School

expected to fill up fast.

year as word continues to spread about the

of Instruction.

First held in the State

information obtained in the ever-changing

“While Excellence in the Esoteric Work

Capital building in 2011, a growing atten-

breakout sessions. I expect to see 300 or

has always been and always will be the prima-

dance forced a move to the more spacious

more attendees this year and hope that we

ry focus, the District School format has not

COURSE SCHEDULE KANSAS FREEMASONS LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

8:00 - 8:55

Registration (TBA)

9:00-9:15

Welcome and Opening Remarks (TBA)

9:15-10:00

Keynote Address - Cliff Porter (TBA)

10:00-10:15 10:15-11:30

Announcements and Mid-Morning Break Facilitating Masonic Education

Masters Duties and the Masonic Code

Risk Management for Lodges

Shawnee Ball Room

Homestead Room

Pioneer Room

11:30 -12:30

Lunch Emerald Ball Room in the Main Hotel

16 THE KANSAS MASON

changed significantly in the past 50 or more

Well-known Masonic

that “Cliff Porter was the keynote speaker

author, Cliff Porter, Past

for our first leadership academy four years

Master of Enlightenment

ago when we were just starting out. It’s fan-

Lodge No. 198 in Colo-

tastic that he is able to come visit us again

years,” said Grand Senior Deacon and Grand

rado Springs, Colorado will be the keynote

and help lead our Craft in another thought-

Lecturer Bob Talbott. “We were asked to ex-

speaker this year. Bro. Porter’s keynote

ful discussion of the topics that concern

pand on topics of interest, and we have done

address, “Meeting Masonic Challenges,”

today’s Masons.”

that. We are excited to share these with the

along with a special closing presentation,

Craft so that we may all improve ourselves.

will discuss issues relevant to twenty-first

is $35 and includes a complimentary lunch.

century Masonry.

Register online or by mailing back the form

These are things that should be taken

Grand Master Michael Halleran noted

back to lodge and shared.”

12:45-1:30

1:30-2:15

3:30-4:15

included.

NOVEMBER 1, 8AM - 4PM Facilitating Masonic Education

Lodge Finance and Budgeting

Risk Management for Lodges

Shawnee Ball Room

Homestead Room

Pioneer Room

Your Lodge, Your Community

Lodge Finance and Budgeting

Masonic Funeral Honors

Shawnee Ball Room

Homestead Room

Pioneer Room

Kansas Masonic Foundation,

2:15-2:30 2:30-3:30

Registration for the Leadership Academy

Afternoon Break Mentoring,

Moving Your Lodge to the Digital Age

Ritual Memorization – Best

More than a Buzz Word

(Digital Records & Information)

Techniques to Learn the Ritual

Shawnee Ball Room

Homestead Room

Pioneer Room

Special Closing Address – Cliff Porter (TBA)

4:15-4:30

Closing Comments and Adjourn

FALL 2014 17

GRAND LODGE

Planning a communication strategy “THE SINGLE BIGGEST PROBLEM IN COMMUNICATION IS THE ILLUSION THAT IT HAS TAKEN PLACE.” George Bernard Shaw.

By Herb F. Merrick, Jr., Grand Marshal, Past Master Hancock Lodge No. 311 & KMF Trustee

I

n 1993 the Masonic Renewal Commit-

tee (MRC) of Canada, the United States, and Mexico published a booklet that lists 101

mine that? Write it down. The lodge com-

it applies to the membership, and this goal will

munication committee with the master and

not change much from year to year. The ob-

wardens have a meeting or possibly a series of

jectives that make up that goal are specific in:

meetings and using a white board or flip chart

who, what, where questions and very specific

or a legal pad lists the “who” and “what” that

about the time measurement. The lodge can

you need to communicate.

measure how well it is doing by reviewing the

Every lodge has a communication com-

objectives. A planning objective or outcome

ways to strengthen your lodge. Prominent

mittee although it may not go by that name.

might be “All members will know fourteen

among its suggestions was the need to com-

Its name could be the “Calling Committee”

days in advance of all special meetings.” An-

municate not only among their members

or the “Membership Committee” or some

other objective would be that all local mem-

but also with the community. The booklet

other name. These are the members that the

bers will be informed of work days 30 days

listed a number of ways that a lodge could do

Master tasks to communicate with the greater

in advance and reminded 10 days before it

that. This publication focused on the tools.

body. Excellent communications take time,

occurs.” The achievement of these objectives

However, this great idea missed what is the

thought and resources. It cannot be another

requires a specific set of tools and strategies

most important and most overlooked part of

duty for the Master or the Secretary. These

to accomplish the mission. Internal commu-

communications; the communication plan.

folks have full plates and while they are impor-

nications will be more personal in nature and

tant members of the process (and might even

will be different depending on the member-

need to lead it), they need help.

ship demographics. This communication is all

If you don’t have a plan or a goal, then any road will take you to where you are going, except that it might not be where you want

The communication committee is looking

about us and us doing things with each other.

to end up. The concept of any good plan is

to get information out to two different groups

Tools to consider here are calling or texting

very simple: first you determine where you

for three different purposes. First the lodge

trees, annual plans, monthly trestle boards

are now, and then you determine where you

needs to communicate with its members.

and meeting agendas. It also has to do with

want to be. The plan is the map to go from

The lodge needs its members involved. The

email, letters, notes and “Facebook” or other

one place to the other. This means you need

members need to know the “who”, “what”,

social media. Each one has a use for which it is

to determine what you want others to know

“when” and “where” of activities and events.

best suited, and the committee along with the

about your lodge. How are we going to deter-

This is the goal of the communication plan as

line officers should develop a plan on how to

18 THE KANSAS MASON

share this information. These activities are also

one tool will do everything. Now that we have

budget items since they all cost money and

a committee and a desired outcome, it is time

should be part of the annual budget.

to gather the specific tools. All tools come

The other groups with whom we must communicate are the public and prospective members. For the general public the focus is

with some sort of cost if nothing but the time of those who do it.

Each lodge’s situation will be different, but

about public events like scholarship awards or

a quick overview calls for an examination of

recognition nights or even fund raisers. The

the tools and some of their uses.

objectives here are still getting out the four

• A calling/texting tree is a great internal

“Ws”, but these take more thought when it

tool to get information to the membership

comes to success measurement. Prospective

very quickly for a short notice event, like a

members are a subset of the first group so

funeral. Its more recent incarnation is the text

there is a lot of overlap. Prospective members

message. The text message has an advantage

want to know more and that requires tailoring

that the recipient does not have to answer it

of the content of the message. First we must

the minute it is sent so it acts like an answering

• Facebook is a great way to share both

communicate that there is an active lodge

machine; however, members might not have a

internal and external communications. The

in the community, then we should follow-up

cell phone.

lodge can share almost real time events through updates. Its uses can include adver-

that message with information about what

• Websites are excellent ways to com-

the lodge does and how one might become

municate with the community, particularly to

tising upcoming events, directing viewers

a member. These communications require

those new to the area, that there is a lodge,

to websites or email points of contact. Its

different tools such as websites, newspaper ar-

where and when it meets plus what it is do-

advantages include the fact that anyone can

ticles, or announcements and booths at public

ing. They are also useful as an archive of past

share the information with an ever larger

events like parades, community celebrations,

events to include photos and agendas.

circle of folks.

or information days.

• Trestleboards both for meetings, for

• Newspapers will do the same thing

the month and the year also communicate

but to a different demographic, so you may

development of handouts, flyers or pam-

internally about plans. They can be hard copies

have to do both. Never forget, that the cable

phlets. Again these things become budget

or electronic, both work.

television station or local radio may let you

These opportunities might require the

items and coordination. Other considerations

• Email is a great reminder and alert-

have both short and long term announce-

are that local newspapers may not send

ing tool if the lodge is small enough to use

ments on the public service channel. It never

someone to cover an event, but they might

an emailing group on the lodge computer.

hurts to ask the local TV station to cover the

accept the lodge’s photos and news story.

However, if the membership is bigger, consid-

event. There are even more tools out there,

The coordinating instruction in the plan

eration can be given to a tool like Constant

but that is a discussion for a later time.

should include who is going to take pictures

Contact as a way to mass email notices.

and who will write the press release or cut

• A members only section password-

Communication is about planning.

Planning is about deciding what are your

protected website section is great to com-

outcomes or objectives, then considering

municate the annual plan and other important

the methods and finally what your resources

want to communicate, what you want to tell

internal information. However, some mem-

are. The most important is to determine

them, and with whom to coordinate, you can

bers may still need this to be mailed to them.

what you want done; the outcome. Then you

determine how you are going to do it. There

The plan should consider how many members

can decide the best methods to achieve the

are lots of tools in that tool kit. Each tool has

do not have regular access to a computer so

outcome. Finally determine what resources

its place and does a specific job well, but no

that you can meet their needs.

you have and can afford to use.

line (the notes under the picture).

Once you have identified with whom you

FALL 2014 19

GRAND LODGE

A Few Words on Grand Lecturers:

By Lyn E. Beyer, Grand Senior Warden

A Valuable—But Often Overlooked—Masonic Resource that would be quite acceptable.

Grand Lecturers are most visible while putting on Schools of Instruction. Sometimes,

ship and click on Directory in the dropdown menu that appears; enter the password (which is available from Grand Lodge, if you do not

Lodges can take simple steps to improve

know it) into the box on the page that you’re

aspects of their own performance that

taken to, and click Submit; finally, on the page

amount to mini schools of instruction in their

you arrive at next, scroll down through the

own right. Each Lodge, for instance, should

2014-15 Grand Lodge Officers, and at the

have a copy of the Manual of Floor Move-

bottom, you will find a list of the Grand Lec-

ment. There is no reason that a Brother in

turers and how to contact them. Please do

any Lodge couldn’t be assigned to study some

so–they are more than willing to assist you.

part of that manual and be the instructor

There are many tools for learning and

of his Brothers on a particular topic. But in

growth available at the Grand Lodge, but

more complex cases, or when such an ap-

Lodges must decide to actually make use of

The first question usually heard when Grand

proach simply isn’t practical, a formal School of

them to be successful. No one can do this

Lecturers are mentioned is this one: “What

Instruction is warranted, and the good news is

for them. Genuine interest, dedication to the

do they do?” I am glad you asked. Here is a

that they are getting better all the time. As this

Craft, and perseverance in a local community

brief list:

is being written, the members of the

1. Maintain an Unlimited Card;

Ritual Committee, which is

2. Teach Kansas Ritual;

made up entirely of Grand

3. Teach the Schools of Instruction;

Lecturers, are working on improv-

4. Put on Proficiency Exams;

ing the Schools of Instruction. We

5. Teach Lodges to improve how they

hope to have this project completed

Open and Close; 6. And by order of the Grand Master, assist Lodges that need help.

later this fall, and those who attend the November 1st Leadership Academy may well get a sneak

Grand Lecturers exist to help make Lodges

preview of what the

better. This does not mean that they should

new School of Instruc-

be asked to drive for two hours to deliver

tion will look like, so

ten minutes on Masonic education. But if, for

please be there, if possible.

instance, a Lodge wishes to work for forty-five

But how can a Lodge get in touch with a

will help build up a smaller Lodge or make a bigger Lodge better. Please take advantage of

minutes to an hour on the likes of Floor Move-

Grand Lecturer when it needs his assistance?

all of the education programs available, includ-

ments for degree work, or Floor Work during

The answer is easy: go to the Grand Lodge

ing those offered by the Grand Lecturers. The

the Opening and Closing in all Three Degrees,

website; let your mouse hover over Member-

quality of your meetings will shine as a result.

20 THE KANSAS MASON

GRAND LODGE

By Lyn E. Byer, Grand Senior Warden

Child Identification Program (CHIPs) Continues at Lodge Level I would like to address recent concerns about

change each year. There is a mission state-

program and we congratulate his efforts.

the CHIPS program. Sterling Hornbuckle,

ment and a single direction to make Masonry

My Lodge has two chips computers and has

PGM began this program, and as in the past,

better in Kansas.

events. I encourage all Lodges with comput-

each Grand Master selected his programs for

Other than M.W. Hornbuckle’s year, this

ers to do the same. This works well in many

his year. The next year those programs would

has not been a Grand Lodge program. So

communities just as parades, picnics, pancake

vanish and the new Grand Master would

nothing has changed except the Grand Lodge

breakfasts and other functions that your

introduce his programs.

relationship with Chips International. We

Lodge participates in with your community.

asked for clarification and have received no

These are not Grand Lodge programs either.

dialogue relating to our concerns.

So please carry-on and make your Lodge a

With the advent of the Vision 2020 concept and the current three lanes instead of four, the Grand Lodge programs no longer

M.W. Hornbuckle continues to run his

visible statement in your community.

FALL 2014 21

There Is An ALARMMAt The Door FEATURE ARTICLE

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

A feeling of sheer panic soon gave way to relief for Ken Witzell when Kansas Grand Master Michael Halleran appeared at the door earlier this spring of Sunflower Lodge No. 86 in Wichita where Witzell has been Master since January.

...ONCE EVERYONE FIGURES OUT THAT THE GRAND MASTER JUST WANTS TO SIT IN LODGE WITH THEM, IT REALLY MAKES FOR A NICE NIGHT Just up the I-35 Kansas Turnpike from

“I hadn’t heard of it (Grand Master’s surprise

For Kevin Reed, Master of Ottawa Lodge

visits) until he came,” Witzell said. “We were

No. 18 since January and who said he is “still

Ottawa, Grand Master Halleran and several

prepared for a visit from the District Deputy

learning the ropes” of his position, Grand

members of the Kansas Masons leadership

Grand Master. It was quite a shock. But we

Master Halleran’s unannounced visit caught

paid an unannounced visit to Olathe Lodge

received him the best we could.”

him off guard.

No. 19 this past spring as well.

In addition to the Sunflower Lodge, Grand

“I knew something was up,” Reed said.

“I hadn’t known anyone to show up like

Master Halleran made several surprise visits

“Right in the middle of the meeting, here

this,” Master Jim Burns said of the surprise. “I

to the lodges in Ottawa, Olathe, Ulysses,

he was.”

was searching my mind back and forth. But we

Americus and Mayetta. He said his visits were for several reasons.

“It’s a good way to ‘take the Lodge’s temperature,’ and make sure everything is

Similar to Witzell, Reed’s moment of panic subsided quickly when Grand Master Halleran presented him with a Challenge Coin.

“He told me he was impressed with me

going well there,” he said. “Just appearing

being new that I got my wits about me as

at lodge without advance notice does kind

quickly as I did.”

of fluster the members. But once everyone

What was ironic, Reed said, was that in the

closed the lodge in ample form.”

Burns said all of the Grand officers had something to tell the members present and it ended up being a good experience.

“I was very glad to see them come.

“They were very kind and generous with their remarks,” he said. “I wish they could come

figures out that the Grand Master just wants

days leading up Grand Master Halleran’s visit in

to sit in Lodge with them, it really makes for

early May, he had read online that the Grand

a nice night.”

Master would be making such unannounced

his schedule and the Kansas weather, he hopes

visits in Lodges across the state.

to continue to surprise Kansas Masons in the

Witzell said Grand Master Halleran was “very gracious” and provided some “encouraging words” to the Lodge members.

“He did a very nice job. I was relieved,” Witzell said. “But it definitely woke everybody up.”

22 THE KANSAS MASON

“It didn’t even enter my mind he would be

more often.”

Grand Master Halleran said depending on

months to come.

in Ottawa,” Reed said. “But he shook my hand,

“Don’t be surprised if you see me roll in –

said I was doing a good job and that he appre-

either alone, or with some of my officers – to

ciated my help. We’re all a work in progress.”

sit in Lodge with my brethren,” he said.

Double Up And Make It Happen!

FEATURE ARTICLE

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

Since 1856, Kansas Masons have come

tion we’re able to double everything that we

about, and often does its work quietly in the

together to make a difference in their

want to do.”

background.

communities. Well-known for funding and

The Masons in Presley’s lodge wanted to

“Being an affinity lodge for police officers,

supporting cancer programs and screenings,

focus some of their recent giving on Kan-

this is a perfect organization for us to sup-

Kansas Masons have diligently given dollars

sas Concerns for Police Survivors (Kansas

port,” he said.

and volunteer hours to numerous organiza-

COPS), a group that supports family mem-

tions in the state over the decades.

bers whose loved ones were killed in the line

ing Funds program was how easy it was to

of duty as law enforcement officers.

incorporate into the Lodge’s plans. To raise

This year, the Kansas Masonic Foundation pushed the concept of giving even further,

“When a death occurs, they come to the

What Presley liked about the new Match-

money for Kansas COPS, the Justice Lodge de-

creating the Matching Funds program that

town and they have support systems that

cided to do a hand-gun shoot as a fundraiser,

helps individual Lodges expand the scope

they utilize for the family, for the depart-

along with taking donations at Lodge meetings.

of their charitable efforts. Kansas non-profit

ment,” Presley explained, adding that they

“We filled the form out to the Masonic

organizations are already benefiting from this

help in numerous ways. “There

program as Lodges immediately understood

are federal death benefits for law

the significance when the program was an-

enforcement officers killed in the

nounced at this year’s Grand Lodge.

line of duty, but the paperwork is

“We’re taught as masons to be charitable,

enormous. These are folks who

to be as charitable as we possibly can be

have been there, done that, and

without injuring ourselves,” said Master Cole

they come in and help a chief or

Presley, Justice Lodge No. 457. “This Founda-

sheriff fill that out. They bring in

tion program doubles the power that a lodge

mothers or wives who have been

has, and doubles the power that a Mason

through this to help the mother or

has. None of us are wealthy millionaire or

wife of a fallen officer.”

billionaires, but through our giving, you would think we were because through the Founda-

Presley said Kansas COPS isn’t a group that everyone knows

NONE OF US ARE WEALTHY MILLIONAIRE OR BILLIONAIRES, BUT THROUGH OUR GIVING, YOU WOULD THINK WE WERE BECAUSE THROUGH THE FOUNDATION

WE’RE ABLE TO DOUBLE EVERYTHING

Foundation, told them who we’re supporting and why, and they matched it,” Presley said. “You don’t find another organization that makes it that easy.”

The ease of giving – and doubling that contribution – through Matching Funds also appealed to Greg King, Master of Great Bend Masonic continued on page 24

FALL 2014 23

FEATURE ARTICLE Double Up and Make It Happen! continued from page 23

that was having a big sale in town that would draw a lot of people.

Lodge No. 15, when his brothers decided to give to the Kans for Kids Fighting Cancer Foundation in Hoisington.

“I heard about the Matching Funds program, and we’d been tossing around the idea of doing something to help somebody out in

Kans for Kids loaned a banner so it would

While the primary goal of King’s Lodge was to help children through Kans for Kids, King said it was also an opportunity to let the

be clear where the money would go, and

community know that the Lodge is active and

Masons offered their time and energy to make

cares about Great Bend.

the fundraising a success.

“We thought with a matching funds deal,

the community,” King said. “We wanted to get

that would be a great opportunity and it

more involved and let people in the commu-

would help out both us and the kids with

nity know our Lodge was active.”

cancer,” King said.

“A lot of times, communities don’t know what the Masons are doing or if they do anything at all,” he said.

Those within the Masons know how important giving to charitable causes is to the

News that Kans for Kids had some money

Kansas for Kids was born through the

organization. And they have quickly seen the

stolen was all it took to jumpstart the Lodge into

efforts of two young children who wanted to

potential of the Matching Funds program to

raising funds for the organization and also using

do something for their cousin who was battling

make their generosity even more meaningful.

the Matching Funds program for the first time.

cancer. Launched in 1996, it started as a Barton

“You take the heart of one Mason, and

County program that collected cans to benefit

then multiply it 20,000 times and then double

could help them out,” King said. Masons at the

children fighting cancer and their families, and

that through the Foundation, and there’s not

Great Bend Lodge put a funnel cake machine

since then has recycled cans, run fundraisers

anything we can’t get done if we put our

they own to good use, setting it up at a store

and collected donations of over $500,000.

minds to it,” Presley said.

“We wanted to do something to see if we

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.kansasmasonic.foundation

24 THE KANSAS MASON

Fulfilling Our Obligation— FEATURE ARTICLE

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

At Work And Doing Good

“He’s moved, and we’re very confident,

Nowhere are the guiding principles of the

anyone could face in their lives. In fact, that’s

Masons more important or far-reaching than

one of the things Corbett finds comforting

and so is he now, that he’ll find gainful em-

in taking care of each other.

about Fulfilling Our Obligation.

ployment again,” Johnson said. “He doesn’t

Through the Fulfilling Our Obligation

“It makes you feel better to know that if

have to stress about having a roof over his

program at the Kansas Masonic Founda-

you ever have a problem, someone will be

head. We took a whole layer of stress off of

tion, Masons are encouraged to turn their

there to help you,” he said. “Knowing, ‘hey,

him.”

charitable focus – usually aimed toward their

I’m doing this for a brother and all my broth-

Being able to do that for a brother in

communities – to each other during the chal-

ers around me are excited about this.’ I know

need was energizing for Lodge members,

lenging times most people face in their lives.

if I ever come to this situation or if my family

who truly recognize that they could find

does, they’ll be just as excited to help me.”

themselves in the same type of situation, he

“We’re going back to our roots and we’re taking care of our members,” said Master

Senior Warden Joe Johnson Jr., of the Old

added.

Branden Corbett, Millbrook Lodge No. 281.

Mission Lodge No. 153, said his Lodge was

“We often give to the Kansas Masonic

“I cannot express enough gratitude for the

able to rally around a member who had un-

Foundation, but this is just great because I’m

money and the brother was overwhelmed

foreseen struggles that left him overwhelmed

going to give even more now that we help

when we presented it to him.”

and stressed. Not only did the Fulfilling Our

our own, and that’s going to motivate folks

Obligation program and Lodge members

in our Lodge to give even more because this

Corbett said one of their Lodge members was struggling to deal with medical bills

help the member out financially, but they

for both himself and his wife, something that

were able to help him find a place to live.

continued on page 30

FALL 2014 25

FROM THE ARCHIVES

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

Repaying a Loan From Our Children: Why Improving Our Future Means Saving Our Past As this article is being written, the M∴W∴Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas has applied for “historical preservation” status and asked that it be listed on the National Register of Historical Places. This is a key first step in preserving our Masonic History in Kansas.

But why is such preservation important?

Placido Arango puts it well in few words in “Transmitting the Legacy,” one of many fine essays by important figures in the international museum world whose work appears in Selma Holo and Mari-Tere Alvarez’s Beyond the Turnstile: Making the Case for Museums and Sustainable Values. Arango is talking about Spain’s Prado museum, but his point applies equally well to the impressive Masonic collection in question here: “The Prado is not only an inheritance we have received from our forebears; we should think of it as a loan we have received from our children.”

The Masonic books and other valuables on display in the Grand Lodge need to be seen as an irreplaceable treasure we have borrowed from future generations—a treasure that we need to return to the people who will live after us in the best condition that we possibly can, just as we would return things we have borrowed from those we care about most of all.

This article, which makes the case that serious

play in the Grand Lodge. While it is possible simply

action should be taken soon to give the evidence

to imagine such items, such pictures are the next

of our proud Masonic legacy, which is currently

best thing to actually paying a visit to the collec-

housed in the Grand Lodge, the kind of extra care

tion itself, at least when it comes to beginning to

it so richly deserves before it’s too late, should

understand what all would start to be lost if, for

ideally be read in combination with Robert Shively’s

some unfortunate reason, we fail to act in time.

enlightening From the Archives article in the

Those pictures are worth a thousand words, as

Summer issue of The Kansas Mason. That article

the saying goes, but there is something even bet-

features striking photographs of many pieces of antique Masonic jewelry that are currently on dis-

26 THE KANSAS MASON

continued on page 28

DR. MARTIN LUTHER BIBLE, printed in Luneberg Germany by Johann Stern in 1684. It was presented to the Grand Lodge of Kansas on October 2, 1926, by F.C. Beindorf of Pasco Lodge No. 173 in Pasco, Washington, having been brought to this country in 1882 by his father from Borgitz, near Magdeburg Province Sachsen, Germany.

PHYSICA SACRA OR THE KUPFER-BIBEL, Its creator, Johannes Jacob Scheuchzer, had its volumes printed sequentially between 1731 and 1735 in Augsburg, Germany, a famous German publishing center of the time.

M∴W∴Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas has applied for “historical preservation” status and asked that it be listed on the National Register of Historical Places.

FALL 2014 27

FROM THE ARCHIVE Repaying A Loan From Our Children continued from page 27 ter—namely, seeing the items in question with your own eyes.

had its volumes printed sequentially between

ing what the Grand Lodge stands to gradually

1731 and 1735 in Augsburg, Germany, a

lose if it waits too long to act can you get a

famous German publishing center of the time.

glimmer of what those precious remnants,

Scheuchzer is now heralded as the found-

both material and literary, would look like in

er of paleobotany and European paleontology,

backdrops better suited to their merit. The

as well as being a professor of mathematics

striking illustrations from the Bible above,

encing these impressive items first hand, espe-

at the Carolinum, professor of physics at

for instance, could be carefully reproduced

cially since, where the Grand Lodge collection

the Academy, and the Director of Zurich’s

and displayed all around the lovely but fragile

is concerned, much more than jewelry alone

Museum of Natural History. He believed that

books themselves. Please make no mistake:

is in need of a more suitable environment

the Old Testament was a factual account of

these books and other objects have always

in which to be preserved and showcased.

the history of the world, so he embarked

received the very best care that the exist-

Leaving aside the myriad of books and other

on this major publishing project to explain

ing facilities can offer—it’s just that they so

items now on display there, I now want to

Biblical events in terms of physics, medicine,

clearly need—and deserve—even better,

shine a spotlight on only one more kind of

and natural history, in hopes of proving God’s

since they are currently fading away at a rate

item that appears in those historic holdings in

existence through science. To this end, he

that the technology exists to slow.

multiple forms: two very rare editions of the

included both the Old and New Testaments

Holy Bible.

in these books, augmented with extensive

for the “treasure trove” of Masonic artifacts

The older of the two is a Dr. Martin

scientific explanatory notes and hundreds of

that it contains is nobody’s fault, and the

Luther Bible, printed in Luneberg Germany

full-page copper engravings, each with an ar-

Grand Lodge itself is, no doubt, a magnifi-

by Johann Stern in 1684. It was presented

chitectural border design, riddled with details

cent building. But this article hopes to raise

to the Grand Lodge of Kansas on October

relevant to the chapter in question; the lively

awareness of the immediate need to develop

2, 1926, by F.C. Beindorf of Pasco Lodge

illustrations, each of which depicts the action

a preservation plan to ensure that the rich

No. 173 in Pasco, Washington, having been

described in one or more Bible verses, repre-

remnants of the Kansas Masonic past that

brought to this country in 1882 by his father

sent, among other things, virtually every type

it contains will always be around to play an

from Borgitz, near Magdeburg Province

of animal the Bible mentions, as well as many

important part in our future.

Sachsen, Germany. This very special Bible

of the plants and trees that are referenced in

had always been handed down from one

its pages, not to mention many of the fossil

already underway. The Grand Lodge has

generation to the next in the Beindorf family.

remains known to early 18th-century science.

formally requested that its impressive head-

It was presented to F.C. by his father, and he,

The set was donated to the Grand Lodge col-

quarters be placed on the National Register

in turn, gave it to the Grand Lodge.

lection in 1918 by Doctor Charles Hedinger,

of Historical Places, and that wise action will,

The second Bible in question, which is

a colorful figure who was made a Mason in

all by itself, help Kansans begin to recognize

divided into four large folio-sized volumes, is

Canton Lodge # 197 in 1903 and enjoyed a

the larger importance of our striking building

not quite as old, but according to an article

medical career that spanned nearly half a cen-

and its amazing contents, located just across

that ran in the September 9th 1962 issue of

tury in the horse-and-buggy days of Kansas.

the street from our majestic state capitol.

There is simply no substitute for experi-

the Wichita Eagle and Beacon Magazine, the

That the present setting is less than ideal

As alluded to above, the first step is

Though in great shape for its age, this

And in conjunction with the pursuit

headline of which proclaims the work in ques-

amazing work, along with its ostensibly “less-

of that important designation, The Kansas

tion to be a “Biblical Treasure,” it may well be

er” companions in the collection, cry out for

Masonic Foundation, in cooperation with the

the most valuable item in the entire Grand

the kind of display lighting—not to mention

Grand Lodge, has also undertaken a

Lodge Library. Written completely in German,

the kind of climate control and other preser-

much-needed study to assess what is needed

it is called the Physica Sacra or the Kupfer-

vative measures—that only a state-of-of the

Bibel. Its creator, Johannes Jacob Scheuchzer,

art facility can provide. Only by actually see-

28 THE KANSAS MASON

continued on page 30

MEMBER INTERVIEW

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

me to an open house that Peace Lodge No.

are Masons and seeing how involved our

243 was hosting, just to see if Freemasonry

Lodge is within the community is simply

might be right for me and to answer any

amazing. No matter where I go, there is

questions that I might have. Everything just

always a Mason there lending a helping hand

felt right at the open house—I should have

to help make Louisburg a better place. It

asked about Masonry years ago!

inspires me to keep doing more, to keep getting to know the people that I meet a little

Jerrod Nelson Jerrod Nelson has been married to his wife, Jessica, for ten years. Together they have a five year old daughter who keeps them both on their toes. He was born and raised in western Iowa and currently resides in Louisburg, Kansas, where he hopes to spend the rest of his life because “this community is unbelievable.”

Jerrod is employed by a dozen independent Anheuser Busch distributors in the state to manage their craft beer divisions for all of Kansas and would welcome the chance to visit some lodges on his travels. His family is the

2. What do your friends think about

better, and to keep reaching out my hand to

your involvement?

help those in need.

I work with a handful of guys whom I had considered close friends for years, without

5. How has Freemasonry inspired you

ever knowing any of them was a Mason. A

or made you a better person?

few weeks back, we were talking about life,

Freemasonry has helped inspire me to be-

and I brought up Freemasonry. This quickly

come a better husband, father and friend. I

led to two of them revealing themselves to

look at things differently and know that every

be Master Masons and two of them turn-

day is a new day to keep working to become

ing out to be Fellow Crafts. Instantly our

a better person. The moral standards and

relationships changed. Although from four

life values learned as a Freemason are an

different Lodges and four different cities,

important addition to the kind of fulfilling life

two of them attended my Third Degree,

that I strive to live.

and all three of us were at the other man’s Third Degree. It is hard to explain the true

6. What do you look forward to most when

cornerstone of his life, though he also enjoys

meaning of Brotherhood, until you become a

you attend Lodge meetings?

his friendships, cars, and live music. He is ac-

Freemason.

I am honored to be part of Peace Lodge

tive in the First Christian Church in Louisburg,

No. 243. We are fortunate to have two Past

besides playing a part in a variety of other

3. Why is Freemasonry important to you?

Grand Masters among us, who always take

activities that support area schools and his

Freemasonry is important to me for a few

the time to teach and listen, not just to me,

community as a whole.

different reasons. Life is easy, if you put

but to everyone else too. One of the things

zero effort into it. To truly become a better

I am proudest of is the high level of degree

1. How did you find out about

person, you must work at it every day. The

work within our Lodge. When I think back

Freemasonry?

foundation and the working tools of Freema-

on the process of earning my degrees—and

I had heard of Freemasonry most of my life,

sonry give men a way to do just that, by chal-

even more powerfully, when I watch how

but I never knew a Mason growing up to ask

lenging them to think about how they should

our Lodge opens and closes—it is humbling

him any questions. And that stayed true until

live their lives. The education truly seems

my family moved to Louisburg four years ago,

endless, and I feel I have a lifetime of learning

when by complete accident, I met Brother

ahead of me, which is a good feeling.

Mike Johnson (although I didn’t know about his Masonic ties at the time). He did some

4. Why is Freemasonry important to

work on my house, and we became friends

your community?

pretty quickly. He mentioned Freemasonry

I am very proud of the community my family

a few times, but like some of us, it took me

calls home. We may be small, but we are all

a while to ask any real questions. He invited

very close. Many leaders of this community

to watch everyone aim for perfection. That’s an honor that I hope to play a part in one day. The thing I love the most about meetings is being around so many friends whom I can call my Brothers—and looking forward to getting to know them all better in the many years ahead.

continued on page 30

FALL 2014 29

FEATURE ARTICLE ————————————————————————————————————— Fulfilling Our Obligation

FROM THE ARCHIVES —————————————————— continued from page 28

continued from page 25

to properly preserve and display our books,

items to help him and scheduled a fundraiser.

could happen to anyone,” Johnson said. “It’s

But when Bond attended the Grand

actually living our creed. I believe that mem-

Lodge, he learned about Fulfilling Our Obli-

bers who have been touched and helped by

gation and realized the program was beauti-

this will give even more.”

fully designed to help in this exact situation.

The phrase “living our creed” is a perfect

“It was a great help to him,” Bond said.

archives, and other historic belongings that are housed there. Many jurisdictions, like Missouri and Iowa, have long ago researched and launched such initiatives, and as a direct result, each now boasts a Museum and Library combination that appropriately showcases their

summary for the intent of the Grand Lodge

“I think this program helps our members

state’s Masonic history, not only to the Craft,

and the Kansas Masonic Foundation through

really realize what their true obligation is and

but to the public at large. Something similar

the Fulfilling Our Obligation program. The

to live up to it. When we find some person

program is designed to help not just mem-

in need, even though they may not be a

bers, but the families of members who may

member of our lodge, then we step forward.

need help.

We do other work with scholarships, and

it, “The days are made on a loom whereof the

we support the band camp and anything that

warp and the woof are past and future time.” In

comes along when people need help. We do

this colorful but now archaic language, he makes

what we’re capable of.

an important point about our time on earth—

“THIS GIVES US A CHANCE TO LEVERAGE OUR GOOD WORKS THROUGH FUNDING WITHIN OUR LODGE, BUT ALSO WHEN WE GIVE, IT LETS US GIVE GREATER WITHOUT HURTING OURSELVES TOO MUCH,”

“This Foundation match really increased what we were capable of providing for a member,” he said.

we pride ourselves in work,” Johnson said.

Lodge of Kansas.

As Ralph Waldo Emerson memorably put

that only the intermingling of things past and things future can create the kind of present that all of us want. Right now, the Masons of Kansas have the power to decide if a collection made up of some of the best surviving offshoots and

the Foundation’s program that they started a

most well-preserved treasures of the Craft still

fund to help people in need.

in existence live on to help future generations

“This gives us a chance to leverage our good works through funding within our Lodge, but also when we give, it lets us give he said.

create the kinds of lives for themselves that all of us want to have—lives they will surely deserve just as much as we do.

And our long and illustrious Masonic past provides confidence that we will make the right decision—and make it in time.

Corbett said the program’s success was

“Work for the family; work for the com-

almost immediate, simply by seeing how

munity. Work in the Lodge. Fulfilling Our

much members were willing to give at the

Obligation is not something that we will

auction held during Grand Lodge.

use frivolously or carelessly. We put a lot of

Museum items now contained in the Grand

Johnson said his Lodge was so inspired by

greater without hurting ourselves too much,” “Just from the nature of being a member,

should definitely be done with the Library and

“It can only go up from here, the way

MEMBER INTERVIEW —————————————————— continued from page 29

thought into what we did before we even

I look at it,” he said. “You’re giving directly

7. What do you see as the future of

asked the Foundation.”

back to your brothers in Kansas.”

Freemasonry?

Through that hard work and faith, Johnson said, action occurred.

Peace Lodge No. 243 in Louisburg put the same thought and consideration into a request to help a brother whose home

Corbett, who has been a Mason for

I think The Grand Lodge is striving to provide

about five years, said the feelings of brother-

us further education and better alignment, which I think is wonderful and will help the Craft as time goes by. We live in a quickchanging world, and we need more well-developed leaders to become a stronger part of our Masonic future. If we believe in our past, present, and future, then there is truly very little that we cannot do.

hood in the Lodge have been an amazing experience in his life.

“You’ll get as much out of it as you put

burned down, destroying all his possessions,

into it,” he said. “I’ve put in as much as I pos-

said Master Larry Bond. When the event

sibly can, and it’s paid dividends more than I

happened, the Lodge donated money and

could ever have thought.”

30 THE KANSAS MASON

AROUND THE WORLD

by Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

Midwest Conference On Masonic Education Offers Valuable Guidance Craft,” said Deputy Grand Master Kellerman.

“It is very apparent that the Grand Lodge of Kansas is leading the way with its educational initiatives, but there is always more we can learn and do.”

In addition to benefitting from all of the educational forums, the Kansas delegation also had the opportunity to get a “behind the scenes” look at the Iowa Masonic Library and Museums. The Iowa Masonic Library continues to be regarded as one of the best places in the world to do Masonic research. And the Masonic Museum there houses wonderful displays of Masonic art, regalia, and equipment from around the world. “As we begin to discuss how we can best bring the improveIn early April, Grand Lodge of Kansas repre-

well as to present best practices in educating

ment of the Kansas Grand Lodge Library and

sentatives, R.W. Daren L. Kellerman, DGM,

Brothers.

Museum to fruition, comparing our emerging

R.W. Dale Marrow, R.W. Tony Borum, and

The conference featured some outstand-

goals to an established facility with the elevated

Kansas Masonic Foundation Executive Direc-

ing speakers, including Mark A. Tabbert,

standards and consistent high quality of a place

tor, Robert A. Shively, attended the 65th

Director of Collections at the George Wash-

like the Iowa Masonic Museum, as well as to

Anniversary of the Midwest Conference on

ington Masonic Memorial, S. Brent Morris,

similarly exemplary institutions in other states,

Masonic Education, held in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

an American author who writes on Freema-

provides us with an inspiring vision of where

sonry, and Andrew E. Hammer, author of

we can go,” Kellerman said.

This conference was also attended by Grand Lodge representatives from Iowa, Ne-

Observing the Craft: The Pursuit of Excellence in

Deputy Grand Master Kellerman has

braska, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin,

Masonic Labour and Observance, just to name

been elected the Second Vice-President for

Ohio, and Missouri. Its purpose was to high-

a few. “This was an excellent opportunity for

this prestigious organization. Kansas will be

light the annual Masonic educational activities

Kansas to see what other jurisdictions are

the site of the 68th Midwest Conference on

offered by the Grand Lodges represented, as

doing in providing Masonic education to the

Masonic Education in 2017.

Fulfilling Our Obligation Program Financial Assistance for a distressed Kansas Master Mason, his Wife, Widow, or Mother; or a Masonic Orphan.

FRIENDSHIP

MORALITY

BROTHERLY LOVE FALL 2014 31

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff member of the Wichita Lodge No. 99, contributing to the Freemason Endowment Fund is like making a life-changing deposit.

“You always want to try to help a Mason if you can,” he said. “It’s kind of like a savings account.

Brotherton said he’s been fortunate so far not to need help from his fellow Masons and feels strongly about being able to help Masons and their families in need while he can.

The Freemason Endowment Fund

“It’s just a good cause to take care of our own because they’re good, honest people,”

HELPS FULFILL SACRED PROMISE

he said. “I’m very blessed and I want to bless others. I want to help while I have the means to do it. I would hope they would do it for

The reasons Bill McDaniel has for donating to the newly-established Freemason Endowment Fund are personal.

I benefited from the participation from all the

my family if we needed it. You should help

Masons who have donated to the KU Cancer

everybody you can, while you can.”

McDaniel, 57, a five-year member of

sons) may be on the receiving end like I was.”

Desoto Lodge No. 40, was diagnosed with

Center,” McDaniel said. “One day they (MaIn addition to being able to contribute to

Jack Hiner, 69, a member of the Parker Lodge No. 341 since 2011, said donating to the Freemason Endowment Fund is important

liver cancer in February 2012 and a little

cancer research, McDaniel said he appreci-

to him because the fund can help Masons and

more than a year later, he underwent a liver

ates being able to donate to the Kansas

their families for many different reasons.

transplant and chemotherapy. The medi-

Masonic Foundation’s Freemason Endowment

cal care he received was at The University

Fund and designate where his gifts will help

people in all walks of life,” he said. “I believe

of Kansas Medical Center’s Kansas Masonic

– whether it’s other Masons or their family

that it deserves my support.”

Cancer Research Institute.

members.

“I saw first-hand how they treated me,”

“I’m very passionate about the Founda-

“It’s beneficial for Masons in Kansas and

Hiner said he became particularly passionate about donating to the endowment

he said of the cancer center’s staff. “The

tion and being able to donate to multiple

after he heard Bob Shively, KMF’s executive

things they do at that building are incredible

causes,” he said. “I want to donate more.”

director, speak this past spring about the fund

and what the Masons do is incredible, too.”

McDaniel said ironically, it wasn’t until

The Freemasons Endowment Fund was created in 2013 with an initial investment of

and how it benefits Kansas Masons and their family members.

after he visited the Kansas Masons’ wing of

$600,000 as a Trust Gift from Edward and

“He gave a tremendous presentation,”

the KU Cancer Center that he was diagnosed

Bernice Seidel. The Grand Lodge added an

Hiner said of Shively. “He’s very diligent. He’s

with liver cancer. Before his diagnosis, he said

additional $160,000. The endowed fund has

inspiring and he’ll get others to follow.”

he felt strongly about the work done at the

a current balance of almost $1.0 million with

cancer center and the Masons’ involvement.

proceeds from the endowment helping Kansas

aged cooperatively by the Kansas Masonic

Now, having been a cancer patient, he wants

Master Masons, as well as Masonic wives,

Foundation and the Grand Lodge of Kansas,

to help other Masons who are dealing with

mothers, widows, and orphans, in their times

helping Masons live up to their sacred prom-

the same issues he once did.

of need.

ise to help fellow Masons and their families in

“KU Med Center saved my life. As a Mason

32 THE KANSAS MASON

For Rickey Brotherton, 64, a five-year

The Freemason Endowment Fund is man-

their time of need.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

Why Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp

Just Keeps Marching On….

As this is being written, the one-month-to-go

the The Kansas Mason Staff did, choos-

mark in the countdown to the 2014 Kansas

ing one male and one female “veteran” of

Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp is

multiple years of band camp, one of whom

rapidly approaching. By the time this story

has already begun her college years, to share

appears, this year’s Band Camp will already

a little about what makes time spent at Band

be a pleasant memory for all concerned,

Camp such a special thing.

but right now, the excitement is still build-

The first of the two Band Camp attend-

ing among registered student attendees

ees interviewed here is Ms. Brittany Sellars,

from across the state. The remaining days

who is currently a sophomore at Pittsburg

before the launch of the fourth consecutive

State University, majoring in Music Educa-

decade of band camps, held in various cities

tion. And the second is Mr. Takoda Eckert,

across the state, always in conjunction with

who will be attending Kansas State University

the annual East-West Shrine Bowl, will fly

starting in August and majoring in Computer

by. And this year’s camp—to be held at

Engineering, with a minor in music; he is

Pittsburg State University, from July 22nd to

already an Entered Apprentice at Hugoton

26th, under the skilled direction of Douglas

Lodge #406, and hopes to be a Master Ma-

Whitten—promises to be yet another fun,

son by the time he attends this year’s camp.

educational, and memorable event for all

All told, the responses that both students

who are lucky enough to be there.

provided were so consistently positive and

But what makes each year’s Band Camp

heartfelt that it was difficult to know what

such a unique experience for all the students

to leave out. But what follows are the high

who attend? To understand that, there is no

points of their responses to the same four

substitute for talking to the student band

questions, centering on what Band Camp

members themselves, so that’s exactly what

meant (and still means) to them.

When asked what the best thing about Band Camp is, Brittany called that “a tough question,” since “there are so many great things about [it],” but she ultimately lit upon the opportunity that Band Camp provides to perform with a big band. Like many who go to Band Camp, before she attended, she had only gotten to perform in bands of a significantly smaller size. “The experience that I got from Kansas Masonic Band Camp is one that I will cherish forever. Getting to play with 150-200 kids from all over, with each having something different to offer, is definitely the best thing about this Band Camp.”

In answer to the same question, Takoda called Band Camp “the greatest experience of my life.” He pointed to a number of reasons for this, ranging from all the fun the participants have, to the hard work they do together in the hot sun, both of which make band members form strong bonds with each other. And it’s ultimately in the common bond they form to help Shriners Hospitals for Children patients that Takoda finds the best thing of all about Band Camp; as he puts it, “Many people would never know continued on page 34

FALL 2014 33

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

time rolled around, he “was overjoyed to

yourself with a new and great world, where

Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band

learn that [he] was definitely good enough to

you can grow to be a better person who

continued from page 33

be a first part trumpet (which takes an insane

makes a positive impact on many lives.”

amount of breath support and a little bit of

Lastly, just to be sure that an aspect of

the capacity that a human heart can carry

insanity).” In summary, he says, “I have never

Band Camp that mattered most to one of

without seeing the actions that take place

had a time at Band Camp where I wasn’t hav-

the students involved hadn’t been missed,

for the children we may not know, but care

ing the most fun I’ve ever had….anytime I was

Brittany and Takoda were given the chance

so dearly for.”

with my newfound friends that I now call fam-

to say anything else about Band Camp that

The next question asked that the two

ily and lifelong buddies was a wonderful time.”

they might like to say. Takoda said this: “I

students recount the most memorable thing

Asked next what they might say to an

can honestly say I wouldn’t be me without

that had ever happened to them at Band

imaginary student who was considering Band

this Band camp. The amount of learning and

Camp, either musically or otherwise. Brit-

Camp but couldn’t quite make up his or her

experience you get from just being in this

tany recounted that during her five years of

mind to go, building on her first response

great environment will teach you more than

attendance, she had formed relationships

above, Brittany said she “would tell them that

any leadership camp, or maybe even any

and made friendships that will last her a

it is the best opportunity they will ever get

church camp, would. They may teach you

lifetime, as well as working with some of the

to be a part of a big band. I know it’s during

through words at other camps, but at Band

best band directors in the state. “You make

the hottest part of the summer, and you’re

Camp, they drive you by action….I hope and

amazing music and put on some great shows

working nine hours a day, but at the end of

pray that no one will ever be left out of an

in only a matter of days. I still remember

the week, it is completely worth it to help be

experience as great and powerful as this one

every one of my shows and the music that

a part of this great organization that does so

is… and that events as wonderful as this one

we played.” But the memories she forged

many things for kids. You put yourself aside

will always take place to change the lives of

at Band Camp stretch far beyond those just

for this one week for the kids. It is the best

others: FOR THE KIDS!”

mentioned: “I would say that I remember it

band camp you could ever go to.”

Brittany’s final response was similarly

all so well because this Band Camp has had a

What Takoda would say to such an imag-

huge impact on my life. Everything about this

ined “fence-sitting” band student starts with

giving me the opportunity to be at this camp

camp makes amazing memories for me.”

calling Band Camp “the chance of a lifetime.

for five years. It was a great experience for

For Takoda, “the most memorable thing

powerful. “I just want to thank you guys for

I honestly would cry trying to tell them and

me, and I know many other kids who loved

that happened… is when I realized that I

find the words to describe all of the love

the experience, as well. Keep doing great

wasn’t as good as I thought I was. Being from

and fun that comes from just a week with a

things for the kids and everything else you

a small town and always being the first chair

bunch of the most caring and amazing people

do...if you ever need help with a Band Camp

made me think I was really good. But from

in this great state….the amount of meaning

in future, you now know how to get a hold

day one at Band Camp, just listening to

that this camp has in my heart and in the

of me. I would be more than willing to help

others warming up around you, it humbles

hearts of the others there would be hard to

any way I can.”

you and throws you into your spot.” But that

put into words...I would pray and pray each

didn’t make him give up. Instead, he took

day that they would take that step towards

of Brittany’s, which start with her sincere

inspiration from the impressive musical skill

the camp, because in my eyes, it is almost like

thank-you for making Band Camp possible,

he saw and heard all around him, worked

a baptism. You are immersing yourself into

every Mason in Kansas—and especially

very hard, and the next year, when camp

a whole new environment and surrounding

those in Lodges who have sponsored stu-

When they read those closing thoughts

dents over Band Camp’s three decades (and

“The experience that I got from Kansas Masonic Band Camp is one that I WILL CHERISH FOREVER.

counting) of existence—deserves to say, “ You’re welcome.”

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

New KMF Scholarships Are Off to a Winning Start

The first year of the newly revised and much more widely available Kansas Masonic Foundation Scholarships (http://kmfonline. http://kmfonline.

Trent Allen Frye 2314 Fairway Drive Belleville, KS 66935

org/#scholarshipguidelines) got off to a wonderful start this year with an unexpectedly high number of great applications.

Kansas Masonic Founda tion 2909 SW Maupin Lan e Topeka, KS 66614-533 5 June 26, 2014

Dear Mr. Shively,

A total of 140 scholarships were given out, ranging from

I would just like to than k you and the Kansas Masonic Foundation for so generously awarding me with this Legacy Scholarship. Tru thfully, I will make goo d use of it towards my expenses next year. This college contribution to my coll ege education is very momentous and honora and I will always be inde ble, bted to you and the Kan sas Masons for your sup port.

$500 to $5000, including numerous legacy scholarships. The latter can be used anywhere in the United States, while the other academic ones can be used at seven Kansas universities: Emporia State, Fort Hays State, Kansas State, Kansas,

It was just last year that I became interested in becoming involved in Freemasonry myself. I discovered that my father was a respecte d member of the loca l lodg e, and henceforth I began to wonder as to what the organization was and its purpose.

Afte r som e lengthy investigation, 1 finally decided to join the loca l lodge if possible.

Pittsburg State, Washburn, and Wichita State. Those geared for technical schools and institutes can be used at seven such facilities in the state, located in Emporia (Flint Hills), Manhattan (Manhattan Area), Beloit (North Central Kansas),

As soon as I turned 18, I was recommended by a few other local Mas ons and I soon after petitioned for initiatio n. Amazingly, I was acc epted and soon after beg an to star t my degree work within the lodge. Rec ently in fact, I've just mad e my way through the final degree and am now Master Mason. I never a would have imagined being the youngest Mas on in Republic County; in high school! even still

Goodland (Northwest Kansas), Salina (Salina Area), Topeka (Washburn), and Wichita (Wichita Area).

The scholarship money awarded in this inaugural year will be used at 36 schools across the state and beyond,

But above everything, I would just like to than k you and the Kansas Masonic Foundation again for all of your sup port Your investment in me as an individual will be greatly worthw assure you. And as I con hile, I tinue to improve mys elf in Masonry, I will alw ays remember what the fraternity has manage d to give me. For now I have the essentials to better myself Brother and a citizen of this gre Mason, at nation. Thank you so much for your sup port, and everything that has managed to do for the KMF the Kansas community !

ranging from highly acclaimed technical schools to prestigious universities. The money to fund the scholarships will go out from the KMF to local Lodges, where area Masons from 78 Kansas Masonic Lodges will personally make the awards to the deserving students involved.

“We simply could not be more pleased with how well

With Sincere Thanks,

the first year of our new scholarship program has turned out,” Mike Tavares said, adding, “and the best news is that things will only get better from here.”

Trent Allen Frye

FALL 2014 35

HOME WARMINGS

By Matthew Bogner, CEO, Kansas Masonic Home

Celebrating Our Accomplishments Along the Way As we celebrate the opening of our first long term care household, I thought it would be a good time to reflect on the past and how far we have come in our effort to provide a true home to residents at Kansas Masonic Home.

As some of you know, the Pavilion Healthcare Center has always been

dream a reality. Your financial support and moral support have been

the heart and soul of the project. Six years ago, our planning process

instrumental in achieving this vision. I also wrote a special letter of thanks

started specifically as a way to transform the institutional physical environ-

to our staff members this week who have worked through the con-

ment as well as the internal way care is provided. By partnering with

struction process. As you can imagine, it is difficult to work in a physical

national consultants, residents, staff members and family members our

environment that is being dramatically transformed. Harder still has

dreams quickly incorporated plans for the assisted living Towers and

been the internal transformation of positions, duties, systems and deci-

Manor as well. We also added a rapid recovery household for short term

sion making processes in an attempt to return resident choice, autono-

therapy residents. For me, the past six years seemed to move slowly at

my and self-determination. However, all of this hard work has improved

times as we secured financing, finished planning and prepared for con-

the lives of countless individuals that will call KMH their home.

struction to begin. It is somewhat surreal to think that by the end of the first quarter next year our campus-wide renovation will be complete!

I would like to thank those of you who have helped to make this

I will leave you with a true story that occurred last week at KMH. I was on my way to check on residents and staff members in the new household and a family member caught me in the hall. He told me that his loved one always talks about visits back “home” to their

BOBBE BEYER 6

TH

house in the outside community. They go on these outings occasionally to enjoy the feel, scent and comfort of home… but of course

MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT

must always return back here in the end. However, upon moving

Wednesday, September 10, 2014 Prairie Highlands Golf Course

into the new Victorian house the conversation abruptly changed...

ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT TO BENEFIT THE KU CANCER RESEARCH CENTER

The 6th Annual Golf Classic is presented by Cigar and Tabac, Ltd. The name is being changed this year to the Bobbe Beyer Memorial Tournament. I lost my wife of 45 years to brain cancer in February 2014. All proceeds from this tournament, as it has in past years, will go to the K.U. Cancer Research Center. Bobbe was treated at K.U. Medical Center and had fantastic care and I thank the Doctors, Nurses and Staff for their support in her 8 month battle.

Cancer can be beaten, but only with your help. Please join us.

R∴W∴ Lyn Beyer Grand Senior Warden of Masons in Kansas Owner, Cigar and Tabac, Ltd.

we stay at my home?” Between you and me, that is what we have been working for all of these years. It seems simple and it is simple… but difficult to achieve.

All of you who have supported our transformation have contributed to this new feeling of peace, security and sanctuary. You should be proud of yourselves in knowing that you have achieved time a community like ours transforms it pushes others to transform as well. Hopefully some day, all communities serving seniors will become true home.

FOR THE FIRST TIME HIS LOVED ONE TURNED TO HIM AND SAID,

Directed by the

36 THE KANSAS MASON

turned to him and said, “Should we go to your home today or should

something far greater than yourself. You should also know that each

RW Lyn Beyer and wife, Bobbe, have been supporters of the KMF for many years. To carry on this tradition, we need the assistance of every Mason and Friend.

We must keep striving. We must keep caring.

913.381.5597 or 800.359.0381

more quickly than I imagined it could. For the first time his loved one

KMF 785-357-7646

“Should we go to your home today or should we stay at my home?”

LODGE OF RESEARCH

By Kyle G. Ferlemann

Diamonds in our Own Back Yard “Your diamonds are not in far distant mountains or in yonder seas; they are in your own backyard, if you but dig for them.”

Brother Russell H. Conwell, Acres of Diamonds

Temperance

Fortitude

Prudence

Justice

Prudence tells us to think.

Justice is sound or good reason, fairness or reasonableness, especially in the way people are treated or decisions are made.

Justice is the third step in possessing yourself; using the control of your thoughts, words and deeds in a wise and beneficial manner, Judgment tells us to judge wisely.

Fortitude is mental and emotional strength in facing difficulty, adversity, danger, or temptation courageously. Fortitude is the fourth step to possessing yourself; it is the ability to be your own man and act on your our wisdom regardless of the tribulations around you. This aspect of resiliency to conflict is very important and indicates that temperance, prudence and justice are not so easy to manage. Once justice defines your path you must have the fortitude to accept truth and dare to act upon your will. In life,

In the study of the tenets of Freemasonry, there is sometimes a habit of seeking great

other is a guide to study.

You may recall from the Entered Appren-

mysteries in places other than in the ritual of

tice degree an introduction to four tenets;

the Lodge. Many often look outside the Lodge

Temperance, Prudence, Justice and Fortitude.

when seeking those things which are best

An examination provides one answer why are

described in the Lodge. Books on “secrets”

we introduced to these four figures in our first

and historical mysteries are all well and good

degree.

but merely interpret what the ritual was

Temperance is self-restraint in the face of

ingeniously designed to provide. Even if it is not temptation or desire. Temperance is the first all inclusive it is most assuredly a deep well that

step to possessing yourself; recognizing you

will keep any Mason occupied in contempla-

can rise above the fray. The figure of Temper-

tion and study for years if he puts his mind to

ance is pouring hot water into cold water to

it. Here is a challenge: Revisit your extended

balance the temperature of the two. In the

cypher and the furniture of your lodge; seek

simplest terms Temperance tell us to not let

the great mysteries that are inculcated in the

our hot emotions or our cold intellect get the

words we already “know” and discover just

better of us. Temperance tells us to wait.

how much more there is to find.

Even if our personal goals are not so lofty as to search for the great mysteries, we can

Prudence is having good sense in dealing with practical matters; thinking about consequences and effects. Prudence is the

all still benefit from the down to earth lessons second step to possessing yourself; recognizprovided in the Lodge. Two examples are

ing you have control over your actions. Here

offered here. One is for everyday use and the

is the strength of reason and consideration.

once we have waited long enough to think and make proper judgments, then Fortitude tells us to act upon what we believe is right.

Wait, think, judge and act. How often do we let hot emotion or cold intellect rule our actions? Intuition and reason are both important tools but neither aspect independently should drive our actions. A man who has subdued his passions can effectively balance these two extremes.

This idea is revisited in the Fellow Craft Degree. In the Middle Chamber the candidate is introduced to the seven liberal arts as progressions in learning and in self-perception; to learn and perceive, contemplate and create, to judge what is true and right. These are not idle categories of recommend study.

Each plays an important part in learning and understanding and their contribution helps guide us in learning. continued on page 44

FALL 2014 37

BOOK REVIEW

By Jim Tresner, Director of The Masonic Leadership Institute

The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Freemasonry

WE MIGHT DISAGREE A BIT ABOUT PIKE’S STYLE OF WRITING

(I LOVE IT; I LOVE THE ABILITY TO LET PIKE’S SONOROUS PROSE WASH OVER ME IN GREAT TIDAL WAVES OF FORCEFUL ELOQUENCE

First of all, this is a fun book to read. I realize

principal “charges” that various writers have

that is not always a recommendation—of-

leveled at the Fraternity, cites the documents

ten “fun” equates with shallow, flippant, or

in which the charges appear, and addresses

not serious. Not here. There is hard-edged

them with clarity and reason. The book is

research behind every word and every fact

worth owning for that chapter alone, if you

presented. All too often “serious” writing

find it necessary to explain Freemasonry to

about Freemasonry resembles a combination

someone who raises religious objections.

of a medical pathologist’s report and grim-

I’ve mentioned those two chapters specifi-

mer work of the Brothers Grimm. Not here.

cally, but the book has much more. For one

The style is easy to read, but informational. It

thing, it is well illustrated. For another, there

is fact-oriented, but never loses sight of the

are “sidebars” of various types throughout

truth that the story of Freemasonry is first

the book which give additional information of

and foremost a story about what it means to

different sorts. One type, headed “Hits and

be human.

Myths,” gives short factual statements that

I especially enjoy Chapter 13 (Oh, Brother

address Masonic mythology or give side com-

Brent, what will the conspiracies people

ments on history. Definitions of terms are

say about that number!) which introduces

also boxed, making them easy to find but not

Part 4 of the book, dealing with Masonic

interrupting the flow of the reading if you

urban myths and legends. Chapter 13 deals

already know the term. Yet a third box type

primarily with Albert Pike, and does so with

is titled “The Square Deal.” These give more

a remarkable burst of sunlight and common

information about the topic under discussion.

sense. We might disagree a bit about Pike’s

For example: “Masonic Degrees are initiatory

style of writing (I love it; I love the ability to

steps and short allegorical plays which teach

let Pike’s sonorous prose wash over me in

ethical and moral lessons. An initiatory step

great tidal waves of forceful eloquence; and if

usually leads the candidate into self-reflection

it takes an extra thirty minutes to understand

and contemplation of universal principles.

the meaning, so much richer the experi-

When an allegorical play is presented, its

ence), but no one can deny that Pike has

plot usually builds upon the legends of the

been attacked by men and women who are

Blue Lodge, sometimes introducing new

among the great unwashed. “They” claim he

legends…. An initiatory step and an allegori-

was a member of the KKK (there is no proof

cal play can be combined in one degree. A

at all—nothing). “They” say he wrote a letter

Masonic ‘rite’ is a collection of degrees that

claiming that Lucifer was the god of Masonry

coherently expand on the Blue Lodge leg-

(a proven and confessed forgery, written af-

ends, while teaching a cohesive set of ethical

ter his death). Incidentally, the mythbusting is

and moral lessons.”

not limited to Pike, you will find much more.

Topics covered by the book include:

Chapter 16 is first rate on religious concerns and Freemasonry. Ill. Dr. Morris sets out the

38 THE KANSAS MASON

continued on page 44

OUT AND ABOUT Hugoton Lodge No. 406

Hugoton Lodge Celebrated Its Centennial Anniversary

Olathe Lodge No. 19, By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff and Steven Hildreth

Lodges Make Terrific Use of New KMF Matching Funds All across the state, lodges are finding innovative new ways to take advantage of the new KMF Charities—Matching Funds Program. But because some Lodges haven’t gotten involved yet, this article will focus on some ideas that one Lodge has come up with that may well inspire similarly solid ideas in other Kansas Lodges.

Steven Hildreth recently gave a presentation to Olathe Lodge No. 19 on the slate of activities that Lodge’s Community Outreach Committee has planned, many of which are excellent examples of just the kinds of things that other Lodges might consider, when it comes to creating initiatives that fit in well with the intent of the KMF’s new matching

Saturday March 8, 2014 looked to be a BIG Day in Hugoton as Hugoton Lodge No. 406 celebrated its Centennial year in Hugoton. The Gala event brought Grand Lodge of Kansas dignitaries from all over Kansas. The 201314 Grand Master of Kansas Masons, Rick Reichert & his wife Janet and many of his Grand Lodge officers descend on Hugoton to help celebrate the Centennial of Hugoton’s Masonic Lodge No. 406.

The day began for local & Grand Lodge officers Opening The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Kansas at 11:30am at the Lodge Hall at 112 West 6th Street where they received instructions as to how the rest of the day was to unfold. The group & their families & honored guest dined at Stevens County Memorial Hall at noon with entertainment provided by the Hugoton High School vocal Music Department.

At approximately 1:00 the Public was invited to enter Memorial Hall for presentation of Service award honors, Widows recognition, Past Masters recognition and any other business that might need to be covered.

The Grand Lodge then formed Grand Procession to Rededicate the Lodge for use in the Hugoton community.

Brothers of the Lodge to receive service honors are 70 years: Charles Harper and Kenneth Keith (posthumously); 65 years: Charlie Thompson; 60 years: Hugh Holt; 50 Years: Joe R. Lee and 25 years: Robert Bentz and David Eckert.

The Lodge boasts 28 widows to recognize as well as all the Past Masters of the Lodge.

funds initiative. The overriding purpose of all of the charitable Lodge activities that follow is to “improve the community opinion and perception of Olathe Lodge,” which is surely just the kind of goal that any Lodge anywhere in Kansas can appreciate the wisdom of pursuing in its own community.

And to that end, the Olathe Lodge committee in question has discovered some excellent opportunities for 2014-15, including those that follow. The Lodge members plan to partner with the Olathe Fire Department to install smoke alarms and/or to offer a free CPR course, to be held in the Lodge building; this Halloween, they will hold a fun “Trunk or Treat” event in the Lodge parking lot (this is where a number of cars are parked close together, each with a different set of Halloween-themed decorations in the trunk, and children walk from trunk to trunk to see the continued on page 40

FALL 2014 39

OUT AND ABOUT continued from page 39 decorations and be given candy and treats in

qualify for up to $1000 in matching funds from

a controlled environment that’s safe for trick-

the KMF, letting it do twice the local good for

than $23,500 to the Foundation over the

or-treaters of all ages); they will help organize

only half the money.

years, for use in a variety of charitable endeav-

a blood drive; and they will also sponsor an Olathe Youth Baseball League.

Why not launch a new charitable initiative right now?

Emporia Lodge No. 12 has donated more

ors. This impressive giving total represents the second highest such total ever donated by any Lodge in Kansas.

Though all of these ideas are very good

In addition, as it also does for other lodges

ones, the important thing to take away from

Emporia Lodge No. 12

these examples is not, of course, that they are

in the state that have requested it to do so,

somehow magic and that other Lodges should

A Top Supporter of the Kansas Masonic Foundation

only consider doing the same things (though if

On May 5th of this year, the Emporia Lodge

the management, administration and oversight

Lodges decide to do one or more things simi-

presented a check to the Kansas Masonic

of the Emporia Lodge’s Annual Scholarship

lar to those listed above, that is certainly fine).

Foundation for more than $2,000. The dona-

Awards. The Lodge set-up an endowment

It is more a matter of letting your imagination

tion was the direct result of a very successful

with the Foundation years ago, which now en-

be fired by these ideas, and if they ultimately

Trivia Night that the Lodge had hosted back

sures that the Lodge can provide scholarship

inspire your Lodge to do something else,

on April 5, 2014. This was the third annual

awards to deserving students, in perpetuity.

instead, that looks like it will work even better

Trivia Night held by the Lodge, with all the

for your Lodge and your community, that’s

proceeds earmarked for the KU Cancer

chael J. Tavares, summed it up well: “The type

every bit as good.

Research Initiative. The check was accepted by

of consistently generous philanthropic support

Robert A. Shively, CAE, Executive Director of

demonstrated by the Brothers in the Emporia

the Kansas Masonic Foundation.

Lodge is a model for all the Lodges in Kansas.”

As long as what you wind up doing has a clear charitable component, your Lodge can

the Kansas Masonic Foundation provides for

Kansas Masonic Foundation President, Mi-

Five Lodges Find a “Speedy” New Way to Fund Fortitude Lodge No. 107, By Jerry Allison An anonymous Brother’s “bucket list” has

first of which will take place on August 23rd

inspired two winning fundraisers in a row for

of this year at the speedway in Humboldt,

five Southeast Kansas lodges: Cedar Lodge

Kansas.

No. 103, Fortitude Lodge No. 107, Harmony

Busses have been donated to Altoona-

Lodge No. 394, Virginia Lodge No. 315, and

Midway, Chanute High, and Royster Middle,

Thayer Lodge No. 149.

as well as to schools in Erie, Fredonia, Humboldt, Independence, Moran, Thayer,

parade of busses. Each bus will have a unique

for now to remain unnamed, had created a

and Yates. Each school will paint its bus in its

theme or name. Prize money put up by

“bucket list” of things he’d always wanted to

school colors, and when they are paraded

sponsors will be awarded to the winners of

be a part of, all of which were purpose-driv-

one-by one by the stands, the bus that’s

both the various heats and the feature races.

en and involved large numbers of people. So

cheered for the loudest will win $1000 for

Since there will be concessions for sale at the

in 2010, he turned to his Masonic family for

its school.

race, no coolers will be allowed in, but com-

The Brother in question, who has chosen

the “resourceful manpower” to start making

Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for chil-

memorative T-shirts will be available for sale.

that list real, which led first to a very popular

dren ages 6 to 13, and kids under 6 will get

If you’ve ever seen a school bus race, you

Combine Demo Derby event, which ran for

in free. Spectator gates will open at 4 pm,

know how much fun it can be. And if you

four years, and now to School Bus Races, the

and the races will start at 7 pm. with a grand

haven’t, please don’t miss this chance!

40 THE KANSAS MASON

CANCER

SCREENING CLINIC

HELPING SAVE LIVES ONE SCREEN AT A TIME Kansas Masonic Foundation and Midwest Cancer Alliance partner to host cancer screenings across the state

By Kansas Masonic Foundation Staff

UPCOMING CANCER SCREENINGS 8/23 Lafayette Lodge No. 16 (Manhattan) 8/30 Vulcan Lodge No. 229 (Walnut) 9/6

Neosho Lodge No. 27 (Leroy)

9/13 Pittsburg Lodge No. 187 9/20 Marmaton Lodge No. 245 (Moran) 9/27 Goodland Lodge No. 321 10/4 Peace Lodge No. 243 (Louisburg) 10/11 Girard Lodge No. 93 *Lodges that had applied to the Each year, the Kansas Masonic Foundation

An additional appointment was needed to

and the Midwest Cancer Alliance partner to

remove the complete cancerous area, Elrod

host free cancer screening events at locations

said, and he was relieved to have participated

around the state.

in the screening.

Kansas Masonic Foundation and have successfully completed hosting their Outreach Program—Cancer Screening for this year.

“I couldn’t believe it (when the spot

fied his own skin cancer, Elrod, a Mason since

with a team of seven medical profession-

was found),” he said. “(The screening) is a

1977, heard about the free cancer screenings

als from the University of Kansas Medical

wonderful, wonderful thing. I was very lucky

organized through the Midwest Cancer Alli-

Center, volunteered at a cancer screening

to have it found so early. Cancer touches

ance two years ago and knew he had to get

event March 8 in Gardner where more than

nearly every family in some way; there’s no

his local Masonic Lodge involved.

50 people were screened.

way around it.”

Ron Elrod and his fellow Masons, along

One of those screened was Elrod himself.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation,

Elrod had personally been affected by cancer several times before. Four years ago,

Though he regularly visits his doctor, the

more than two million Americans are diag-

he accompanied his sister, Sharon, to all of

screening highlighted a spot that he needed

nosed with some form of skin cancer each

her tests and treatments after she was diag-

to have reviewed by a specialist.

year and one in five Americans will develop

nosed with Stage 4 throat cancer. Sharon’s

skin cancer over the course of their lives.

husband lost his life to cancer shortly before

“The doctor at the screening saw a spot

she was diagnosed.

on my back and told me to get it looked at,”

“What we Masons try to do is stay in-

Elrod said. “She told me that the center of

volved in the community and help out many

it did not look like it should. I went to my

worthwhile organizations,” said Elrod, a

ter,” Elrod said. “Just don’t put it off for any

doctor the next Thursday and mentioned it

72-year-old retired mill wright and native of

reason.”

to him. He took a look, and scheduled me to

the Gardner area. “I heard about the cancer

have it taken off.”

screenings and decided that I would tell

Foundation’s free cancer screening events,

them about it and help start the ball rolling

call the Midwest Cancer Alliance at 913-588-

in Gardner.”

4719 or the Kansas Masonic Foundation at

Within two weeks of the screening, Elrod had had the spot removed and was told that it was definitively pre-melanoma cancer.

Though in the end the screening identi-

“The earlier you get diagnosed, the bet-

To find out about the Kansas Masonic

785-357-7646.

FALL 2014 41

OUT AND ABOUT

By John G. Crary, PM, Hancock Lodge No. 311

“… If Within the Length of My Cable Tow” Just what is a cable tow, and how long is it?

Abel-beth-maachah, and all Chinneroth, with

How is it used in Freemasonry? Is the Cable

all the land of Naphtali” (1 Kings 15:20). King

Tow a restraint, a connection, or perhaps a

Ahab of Israel retaliated and defeated Ben-

measure of distance? The answer to all three

Hadad. King Ben-Hadad’s officials said to him,

parts of that last question is yes..

“Look, we have heard that the Kings of Israel

Merriam-Webster defines cable this way:

In early Masonry, the Cable Tow was apparently seen as a restraint used to help safeguard the Lodge from a non-agreeable candidate.

are merciful. Let us go to the King of Israel

a strong rope, especially of 10 inches (25

with sackcloth around our waists and ropes

centimeters) or more in circumference; and

around our heads. Perhaps he will spare your

tow is defined like this: to pull with a rope or

life.” The Bible goes on to teach that as a

chain. The word tow therefore suggests pull-

result, King Ahab did, indeed, create a treaty

ing or drawing something along. By combin-

with King Ben-Hadad and set him free.

ing the definitions of the two, we can deduce

Roughly fourteen hundred years later,

the meaning of a Cable Tow, as used in early

King Edward III of England conducted a siege

Masonry: a large rope, which was used to

against the port city of Calais in France in

draw or shepherd a candidate along. Mackey’s

1346. Almost a full year into the campaign,

Encyclopedia of Freemasonry points out

the king made a demand of the city elders:

that the Cable Tow was and still is used as a

“Give me six of your burghers [leading or

restraint. Every Entered Apprentice is given

powerful men of the community], and I

detailed instructions as to why it is used in

will spare the city.” Rodin’s sculpture “The

the First Degree. The use of the Cable Tow

Burghers of Calais” illustrates that scene and

in other degrees, however, leads intuitively

depicts each man wearing black sackcloth and

to a more philosophical conclusion about its

a rope halter.

symbolism and its transition to being much

And about five centuries after that, Jacob

more than a mere restraint. The explanation

Grimm (4 January 1785 – 20 September

of its symbolism in the Second and Third

1863) was quoted by Robert Freke Gould in

degrees clearly illustrates this point.

his work, History of Freemasonry Through-

The Cable Tow has been used to dem-

out the World, to make this related point:

onstrate loyalty, submission, and servitude

“A cord about the neck was used symboli-

for many centuries. In early Roman times,

cally in criminal courts to denote that the

Josephus tells us that “citizens appeared

accused submitted his life to the judgment of

before their monarchs with a rope around

the court. When used upon the person of a

their neck to indicate their loyalty to him.”

freeman, it signified a slight degree of subjec-

The Bible tells us that somewhere near 865 BC, Ben-Hadad took the towns of “Ijon, Dan,

42 THE KANSAS MASON

continued on page 45

SEEDS OF OUR FUTURE

By Jamie M. Anderson Director of State Activities & Marketing Kansas Rainbow For Girls

The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls is the only youth club that teaches what matters most – leadership, confidence, and citizenship.

and White Shrine of Jerusalem. He served

WE ALSO ALWAYS FEATURE A FUN ACTIVITY, SUCH AS THE WINTER JAM CHRISTIAN CONCERT, OR A TRIP TO THE PUMPKIN PATCH FOR A HAYRACK RIDE AND A TRIP THROUGH THE CORN MAZE.

as Worthy Grand Patron of Oklahoma in

others, love of home, and dedicated service

1925 and Grand Master of Oklahoma in

to humanity. When elected as Worthy

1928. He not only founded our order, he

Advisor, a Rainbow Girl is responsible for

doing service for others. Whether it is

also wrote our beautiful ritual degrees. He

planning and carrying out meetings, as well

service performed individually on a daily

was truly a special man.

as select activities, and projects, under the

basis, or as part of their assembly in their

supervision of quality adult leadership. The

home community, or as part of a state-wide

regardless of religious preference. Those eli-

girls memorize the different lectures and

function, this is something that the girls do

gible for membership can be the daughter or

ceremonies of our ritual and perform the

without thought of reward. To them it is

granddaughter of a member of the Masonic

degrees at meetings, initiations, and instal-

second nature. They will quite often tell you

Fraternity, the Order of the Eastern Star, the

lations. They also have the opportunity to

that the habit of selfless service is the most

Order of the Amaranth, or the order of the

serve as Grand Officers and to perform the

important lesson that we teach.

White Shrine of Jerusalem. She can also be

different degrees at the state level.

The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls (Rainbow) is a service-oriented organization for teenage girls. Like our counterparts, DeMolay and Job’s Daughters, the focus of our order is to produce quality leaders for tomorrow. Rainbow was founded in 1922 by the Rev. W. Mark Sexson, who was raised as a Master Mason and became active in the Scottish Rite, Royal Arch Masons, Knights Templar, Shrine, Eastern Star,

Rainbow is open to all girls aged 11-20,

the daughter or granddaughter of a Majority

We have several state functions each

Concert, or a trip to the pumpkin patch for a hayrack ride and a trip through the corn maze. The highlight of the year occurs in July, when we all meet for our Grand Assembly Session in Wichita. We work continually to be sure that everyone has a great time and a wonderful learning experience. Throughout the year, girls travel from assembly to assembly attending meetings, activities, and installations, while also making new friends.

We have active assemblies in the Wichita/ Haysville and Topeka/Lawrence areas.

The girls spend a great deal of time

The ritual is written with the beautiful colors of the Rainbow in mind. Red –

Rainbow Member, or the friend of a Rain-

year. Grand Installation begins our year,

Love, Orange – Religion, Yellow – Nature,

bow Girl. Masonic affiliation is not required.

followed by Rainbow Retreat, which is

Green – Immortality, Blue – Fidelity, Indigo

always held at a church camp. It is a fun and

– Patriotism, and Violet – Service. Other

mote—among many other positive things—

informative, but still casual, training weekend.

important lessons include Faith, Hope, and,

belief in a Supreme Being, veneration of the

Mini-Grand is held in the spring and is an op-

of course, Charity.

great truths in the Holy Bible, a conception

portunity for the Grand Officers to perform

of the higher things in life, the develop-

their work. Memory competitions are held,

bers, active adults, and loving supporters.

ment of dignity and character, and regular

and the girls spend all year perfecting their

If you would like to play a part in Rainbow,

church attendance. In addition, it fosters

competition parts. We also always feature a

please contact us at www.ksrainbow.org.

leadership, patriotism, cooperation with

fun activity, such as the Winter Jam Christian

We would welcome you with open arms.

Rainbow recommends and helps pro-

We are always looking for new mem-

SPRING 2014 43

LODGE OF RESEARCH continued from page 37

(Brother) Carl Sagan said it best in his book

Southern Jurisdiction of the Ancient Accept-

Grammar – The rules that facilitate Com-

Contact. “In all our searching, the only thing

ed Scottish Rite of Freemasonry” is available

munication in Writing, Music and Mathematics.

we’ve found that makes the emptiness bear-

on Amazon.

Grammar represents Coherent Knowledge

able, is each other… For small creatures such

and the building blocks of the learning process.

as we the vastness is bearable only through

Kansas Lodge of Research. This is the first in

Logic – Clearness of mind and soundness

love.” This is the Power of Love.

a series of articles to be published about the

of thought process, Logic governs correct

These are not mere sciences to turn

individual exploration of the journey inside Blue

though and reliable inference that allow the

the mental cogs of cold intellect but levels

Observational Power to perceive nature.

of understanding, a comprehension of the

Rhetoric – The art of effective or persuasive

world and our place within ourselves and our

speaking or writing. To form a thought is a

world. An important point should be inserted

quantum leap within the mind of man, to

here. Although we are told that geom-

effectively articulate that thought is another

etry is the most beloved of the seven arts,

• What is Freemasonry?; • Birth of the

quantum leap, and to communicate the origi-

each art should be taken in turn and given

Masonic fraternity; • Beginnings of American

nal thought in the form of the written word,

due diligence in order to take part in that

Freemasonry; • Modern American Masonry;

and leaving these symbols behind for another

progression. When we hear that Masonry

to find and comprehend is the greatest leap

• African American Freemasonry; • Eastern

is a “progressive art” it does not mean we

of all. Each of these leaps requires Contem-

Star and other organizations for women; •

should seek change solely for the purpose of

Scottish and York Rites; • Other organiza-

“progression” but rather that in our studies

tions including youth groups; • Masonic

we progress in our understanding and that

symbolism; • Masonic regalia; and, of course,

with study we come to understand more of

• Mythbusting. It is a good book for the

plation and introspection.

Arithmetic – The properties and manipulation of numbers; manipulation being the operative term, this represents the Creative Power of the mind.

Music – An art of sound in time that expresses ideas and emotions in significant forms through the elements of rhythm, melody, harmony, and color. The power to create music requires both sound Judgment and Intention.

Geometry – A branch of mathematics that deals with the measurement, properties, and relationships of points, lines, angles, surfaces, and solids. In Geometry we find physical proof of Grace and the ability to predict the

the art of Masonry.

The four virtues of Masonry and the path of the seven liberal arts are just two examples of the strength and wisdom that can be found specifically in the rituals of our own Grand Lodge of Kansas. As Masons we should endeavor to make ourselves familiar with the wisdom of our own rituals and lectures, valuable diamonds waiting for discovery in our own back yard.

About the author. Brother Kyle G. Fer-

Lodge Masonry.

BOOK REVIEW continued from page 38

general reading public as well as the Masonic public. It also has a special advantage in that the research and documentation, while they never “get in the way,” are here in full. If a person is writing a term paper on the fraternity, here is where he should start.

For student, researcher, or casual reader, the appendices are a treasure trove. Appendix A is a good glossary. Appendix B has an excellent list of good Masonic books, a very useful list of web sites, and contact infor-

movement of our physical world provides us

lemann is perpetual life member of Golden

with the Power of Vision and comprehension

Rule #90, Topeka. He is a 32 year veteran of

of our world.

civil-military operations within the National

Appendix C contains two Masonic rituals,

Astronomy – The branch of science that

Guard working with local, state, and federal

one typical of the Symbolic Lodge and one

deals with celestial objects, space, and the

agencies in both domestic and international

typical of the rites. Not only can non-Masons

physical universe as a whole. In astrology we

emergency planning and operational support.

get the flavor and nature of a degree from

find an Understanding of our place in the

He is an accomplished Soldier, teacher, and

the material, but Masons can explore earlier

universe, and through reason and empathy

author as well as an avid student of life and

forms of the structure that is so familiar to

we can come closer to comprehending

light. His latest book, “Bridge Builder’s Guide:

us. Appendix D has a listing of famous Free-

the enormity and duration of creation. Dr.

A study companion for the degrees of the

masons. This is simply a first-rate book.

44 THE KANSAS MASON

mation for various Masonic philanthropies.

OUT AND ABOUT continued from page 42 tion or servitude.”

The intent here is not to argue whether

I would submit Brother Claudy provides us

chance of that tie ever being severed. Even

with a rich symbolic insight here that begs

if he stumbles and falls out of grace with the

serious contemplation and discussion.

fraternity—and perhaps is even expelled from Masonry—his obligations to the fra-

or not having “ropes around their heads”

It is apparent the Cable Tow is many

is really the same as a Masonic Cable Tow

things, with many meanings. In our own

ternity remain binding. I might add that the

of today. But it is fair to suggest that from

work, we learned that the forests of Lebanon

body of Masonry has obligations back to the

a point very early on in human history, we

gave up its bounty, which was “conveyed on

Brother. The Cable Tow has two ends with

can see that wearing ropes was a submissive

floats.” Cable tows were no doubt used to

equal responsibility to each other. The Lodge

act, which can be seen as a forerunner of

bind the logs, so they would float together.

is the brother, and the brother is the Lodge.

our Masonic Cable Tow. Indeed, the Masonic

Once arrived in Joppa, the logs were secured

symbolism of the cable tow today is vast,

to the shore with cable tows, which perhaps

has no length, because it is as long as I will it

and I believe that along with The Spheres, it

gives us the phrase “a cable’s length from

to be. It is as secure as my principles allow it

illustrates the universality of Masonry.

shore.” In nautical terms, a cable tow is 600

to be. It is as strong as my character is. My

feet. Published in 1762, Jachin and Boaz: Or,

Cable Tow is as deep as my convictions. It

idea of the Cable Tow to very interesting

An Authentic Key to the Door of Free-Ma-

is as wide as my ability to understand. My

heights. In his book, An Introduction to Free-

sonry, Both Ancient and Modern” tells us a

Cable Tow is my tie to the fraternity, my will-

masonry, Claudy writes, the Cable Tow “is

cable tow was seen as a distance of 3 miles.

ingness to serve, my desire to help my fellow

symbolic of the life cord, by which the em-

In early Masonry, the Cable Tow was

In the early 1930s, Carl Claudy takes the

What is the length of my Cable Tow? It

man. My Cable Tow is a constant reminder

bryo receives life from the mother. It is the

apparently seen as a restraint used to help

that brotherly love, relief, and truth is what

symbolic cord by which the Masonic infant is

safeguard the Lodge from a non-agreeable

marks my consequences among my brothers;

attached to his Mother Lodge. As soon as the

candidate. But also very early in Masonry, the

it punctuates the sincerity of my intentions,

infant is born, the physical cord is severed,

Cable Tow takes on the metaphoric mean-

the purity of my heart and, in due time, it is

but never the knife was ground which cut the

ing of connection. A Mason is born into the

the Masonic legacy I will leave behind when I

spiritual cord which ties a man to his mother.”

Lodge and is irrevocably tied to it, with no

am gone.

EVENT CALENDAR August 2

August 23

August 2

August 23

Area 9 Meeting – Liberal Kansas Masonic Foundation Statewide Seminar – Wichita

August 9

Grand Master's C2A Class – Wichita

August 16

Area 10 Meeting – Hoxie

August 16

Kansas Masonic Foundation Statewide Seminar – Pittsburg

Sept. 6

Sept. 19

Kansas Masonic Foundation Statewide Seminar – Hiawatha

Sept. 6

Sept. 27

August 30

Sept. 13

Area 3 Meeting – Emporia

KLOR Masonic Legends Lunch & Lecture – Topeka

August 30

Kansas Masonic Foundation Statewide Seminar – Garden City

Statewide Masonic Education Day – 6 locations Oak Tree Degree – Little River St. Francis Lodge No. 404, 100 year re-dedication

Sept. 13

Kansas Masonic Foundation Statewide Seminar – Colby

Kansas Masonic Foundation Trustees Meeting – Emporia Silverdale Quarry Lodge – Arkansas City

Oct. 25

Emporia Lodge No. 12, 150 year re-dedication

Nov. 1

Leadership Academy – 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/ SPRING 2014 45

ASKED AND ANSWERED

By Nolan Sump, Salina Lodge No. 60; Cawker City Lodge No. 125 & Oketo Lodge #25

QUESTION:

of humans; basic physics would have come

In reference to King Solomon’s temple, 1

into play, as a block and tackle and a pul-

Kings 6:7 states, “When the house was built,

ley system would have enabled the men to

it was with stone prepared at the quarry, so that neither hammer nor axe nor any tool of iron was heard in the house while it was being built.” However, in the allegory of H.A., he was buried in the “rubbish of the temple.”

How can it be that the building was constructed without tools, and yet there happened to be rubbish lying about? What exactly was this “rubbish?”

Glenn Kohr, PGM

ANSWER: Your question is one that has truly perplexed many a Masonic scholar over the years and is worth answering to the best of my ability. In consulting the Holy Bible, I reviewed I Kings Chapters 6 and 7, to discover that it was built of more than just stone. The Cedars of Lebanon were used to create the ceiling and walls, the floor was made from cypress, and the doors were constructed of olivewood. The building itself was 60 cubits long, 20 cubits tall, and 30 cubits in width. Since a cubit is 18 inches, this translates to 90 x 30 x 45, when measured in feet.

Taking a modern-day look into the construction of King Solomon’s Temple, I will attempt to offer my theory on what caused the rubbish. First, an extended discussion of rubbish in the context of the construction

lift and position the finished stones in their destined locations. Since the formidable task of building the Temple took seven years, the construction crew would inevitably have run into some snags along the way. For example, seven years takes its toll on the finest of cedar, especially when it’s being used as a pulley and lever, and the same goes for the rope. Both would have broken at some point and been discarded in a location out of the way of the work being accomplished. It may also be that apprentices, when quarrying stone and taking it to the Temple, may have sometimes created an ill-fitting, imperfect stone for the builder’s use. Such stones would likely likewise have been discarded into the “rubbish” pile.

Pieces of stone—not to mention the previously discussed broken pieces of cedar

fulfillment. The Masonic allegory of H.A. is meant to teach our members about how three men who have lost their way commit acts of vengeance and discord, due to their selfish desires; but more importantly, it also teaches us how we must always continue to build ourselves up, through faith, hope and charity, as seen in the rest of the story.

QUESTION: I took my Obligation as a Master Mason last fall, and as part of it, I was told that as

and rope—may not have been the only items

a Mason, I am not to associate with a

in the pile, either. When fitting beams into

libertine. What exactly is a libertine, and

place, it helps to use some sort of tool to

why must I avoid this kind of person?

cut and fit the beam, whether it be done by tongue-and-groove, or some other means.

Donald Wooddell, Hiawatha Lodge No. 5

This would have led to shavings falling on the

ANSWER:

floor. Get enough of these on the ground,

Thank you for asking this important question.

and they will need to be swept into a pile,

Ten years ago when I took my obligation as

only to be added, in all likelihood, to the

a Master Mason, I too wondered what this

same pile of wood, rope, and stone that is

term represented. On its surface and merely

discussed above.

from a dictionary reference, a libertine is

When looking at the larger picture, Dr.

defined as “one who acts without moral re-

of such an eminent and celebrated build-

Jim Tresner, of the Grand Lodge of Okla-

straint, a dissolute person, or one who defies

ing would have distracted from its central

homa, points out the symbolism behind the

established religious precepts; a free thinker.”

message, which helps explain why the Bible is

rubbish. “Remembering that the Temple

In more pointed terms, it refers to individuals

silent on the matter, except for the very brief

always symbolizes the individual Mason,” he

who feel they have the freedom to live their

reference this question highlights; we want

asserts, “the rubbish would represent those

lives on their own terms, without the need

to know about the inlaid gold on the walls

things in life that are not needed or are

to show gratitude or self-restraint when it

of the temple and the beautiful cherubim,

undesirable—those vices and superfluities

comes to their interactions with their gov-

not the pile of refuse in the corner. Next,

mentioned in an earlier Degree.” In other

ernment, loved ones, or organized religion.

because the craftsmen were responsible for

words, the rubbish of the Temple represents

This term also refers to those who commit

laying the stone, lifting a stone of formidable

the parts of our lives that make us impure

brazen acts of lewd or licentious behavior.

size would entail more than just the backs

and are cast aside in our personal quest for

46 THE KANSAS MASON

Libertinism, as a term, originated in16th

century Switzerland, when John Calvin

the opportunity to humble oneself before

ballot must be taken in the same manner as

refused to serve communion to a group of

a Supreme Being. Associating with such

on the petition.”

men he named the Libertines, due to their

individuals will crumble the moral foundation

practice of adultery and promiscuity with the

upon which both we—and our elevated and

numerous mistresses they possessed. Calvin’s

beloved Brotherhood—must always stand.

insistence on the enforcement of church

Therefore, the term “suitable proficiency” is the key to determining whether a student is ready to move on. This term is left to the Lodges and/or examining committee to inter-

discipline raised the ire of the Libertines, but

QUESTION:

despite an attempt to regain control of the

When receiving the grip and reciting its

Geneva Town Council in 1555, they were

name in the First Degree, have Masons

unable to succeed. The philosophy of Liber-

always started out with the third letter, or

states, “This proficiency will be the memory

tinism continued to be practiced throughout

have there been times in the past when the

work, as contained in the Candidate’s Hand-

the next several centuries in France and

first letter has been uttered?

book, and will include the First and Second-

Great Britain—and took on two distinct but related meanings. The first meaning was promiscuity—a term which definitely applied

Sincerely, George Read, Great Bend Lodge No. 15

to such men as Casanova and the Marquis

ANSWER:

de Sade, whose lives embodied this form

While one starts out the spelling of the

of reckless misbehavior. Their outspoken

name in Kansas Lodges with the third letter,

endorsement of freewheeling sexuality and

how the Entered Apprentice grip and word

other pleasures of the flesh was in direct

are communicated vary in the Grand Lodge

pret and utilize with their own discretion.

In the Bylaws, under Article II, 4-206, it

Degree proficiency. The Third Degree proficiency examination should be completed but shall be at the option of the candidate. The Masonic Education Committee will report the score of the Lodge Proficiency Support Program before the Lodge vote is taken.”

In 4-206A, a mentor or coach is appoint-

opposition to religious thought, both then

of each state. In some places, such as Mas-

ed to assist the brother in learning the Work.

and now. The second meaning of Libertinism

sachusetts, it is spelled directly.

However, not every brother is endowed

refers to an irreligious libertine; this particular type of individual was a free-thinker,

QUESTION:

who in matters of faith, denied the essential

I was asked recently why a brother going

doctrines of religion.

through a one day class does not have to

When applied in the context of Free-

give back his Second Degree Obligation, but

with the memory capacity to achieve letterperfect proficiency. This is where a level of “suitable proficiency” is left to the judgment of the Lodge or examining committee to determine what will pass for them. If your

masonry, the meaning of the term Libertine

a brother going through Degree Work in a

is closer to the second definition, which is

Lodge is required to do so. In Great Bend

probably why it follows the word atheist in

Lodge No.15, we require that the brother

the Master Mason’s Obligation. Such issues

know the Due Guard, Sign, Word, Grip, Ob-

is pleased, then that standard is considered

were important enough in the 19th century

ligation and Working Tools before moving on.

suitable for your expectations on proficiency.

that the word was included in most moni-

What does Grand Lodge require a brother to

However, should your Lodge or any other

tors, so it should still be taken seriously today.

know before moving to the next degree?

Lodge across the state desire to better edu-

As Masons, its meaning implores us to follow our shared moral compass even more closely

George Read, Great Bend Lodge No. 15

method of determining proficiency at Great Bend #15 works for you and the candidate

cate their newly admitted Brothers, there is a program that can assist with such endeavors.

and avoid interaction with anyone who might

ANSWER:

seek to lead us astray. Remembering that we

In answering your question, it is important

first become Masons within our hearts, our

to observe the Constitution and Bylaws of

responsibility is to be moral and upright be-

Grand Lodge. Article X, Section 6, reads,

fore the world, while always remaining mind-

“Before any candidate is advanced to the Sec-

The Entered Apprentice, The Fellowcraft, The

ful of the Grand Architect who designed this

ond or Third Degree, he must exhibit suit-

Master Mason, From the West and to the

universe in which we live. To be a libertine

able proficiency in the preceding Degree, and

East, and 100 Questions, plus the Candidate’s

today is to resist accountability and to deny

on demand of any member of the Lodge, the

Handbook.

The Lodge Proficiency Support Program includes the three tests that are associated with the small handbooks, On the Threshold,

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 #60. Since then, he has served as Worshipful Master of Cawker City #125 and is now the Master of Oketo #25. He is the current District Deputy Grand Master of District #21.

In addition, Nolan serves on the Grand Lodge Public Schools Committee.

FALL 2014 47

on more k ic cl d an n tio uc A on k ic cl g or e. in nl -7646.

Go to kmfo For information please contact 785-357 The Auction is being conducted by the Kansas Masonic Foundation as a benefit fundraiser for Kansas Masonic Lodges. Bidding will begin August 15 and conclude at 5:00 PM, CST on September 15, 2014.

The Kansas Masonic Foundation will provide the administration for the Auction. Lodges are responsible for delivery or pickup of Auction items.

1 Masonic Knife

5 Vintage Trunk

10 Masonic Knife and Sheath

Manmade, 7" stainless steel, Masonic Insert Square and Compass - with Custom Molded Leather. Handmade Sheath.

The Handle is Corian.

Goodland Lodge #321, AF&AM

A trunk that is quite old and in fair condition.

It is a vintage piece that would look great in almost any home dĂŠcor.

Easton Lodge #45, AF&AM

A beautiful ATS-34 Stainless Steel Knife, Hollow Ground with Desert Ironwood Handle & 8-9 oz. hand stitched sheath. It has a Masonic logo on it and was hand made by Brother Marvin L. Seaman.

St. Francis Lodge #404, AF&AM

6 Cable Brand Piano 2 1920 Beckwith Player Piano Gorgeous, Authentic Player Piano. Features rolls that consist of Gospel Music and Polka to name a few.

Parker Lodge #341, AF&AM

3 AF&AM Kansas Art Piece A unique carved and etched, Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Kansas, emblem art piece.

Carbondale Lodge #70, AF&AM

4 AF&AM Kansas Art Piece A unique carved and etched, Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Kansas, emblem art piece.

Carbondale Lodge #70, AF&AM

Nice Cable Brand Piano. This piano is in good working order.

Easton Lodge #45, AF&AM

7 Theatre Seats Three sets of 4 chairs each, theatre sets.

In great condition. These seats can serve a multitude of functions.

Easton Lodge #45, AF&AM

8 Compass, Knife/Utensil and Flashlight Set In great condition.

Great to use on camping trips!

Nickerson Lodge #43, AF&AM

9 Nice Piano This piano has been used by Eastern Star and is in very nice condition.

Nickerson Lodge #43, AF&AM

48 THE KANSAS MASON

11 Three Quality Wooden Gavels These three Wooden Gavels are made from Oak and Walnut and have a handsome polished finish.

Vulcan Lodge #229, AF&AM

12 Hunting Knife and Sheath 12 Handsome Surgical Steel Blade Hunting Knife, with Brass Bolster, Green Color Bone Handle. Includes a nice Leather Sheath.

Vulcan Lodge #229, AF&AM

13 United States Flag Belt Buckle A Red, White and Blue American Flag Belt Buckle. This Belt Buckle would be a great item to wear on the 4th of July.

Vulcan Lodge #229, AF&AM

14 Limestone Block

23 Pontoon Boat Fishing Trip for Four

32 Men’s Golf Clubs with Bag

A Limestone Block - engraved with a Masonic emblem.

Ellsworth Lodge #146, AF&AM

A fishing trip for a 4 hour excursion with a Tour Guide. Picnic Dinner and Beverages (non alcoholic) included at the conclusion of the fishing trip.

Peace Lodge #243, AF&AM

Set of golf clubs with golf bag. These great golf clubs includes all drivers, a wedge and a putter. Golf bag with stand included!

Olathe Lodge #19, AF&AM

15 A Dillions Gift Card Dillions Gift Card purchase can be up to $50.

Ellsworth Lodge #146, AF&AM

16 Apple Peeler Durable Apple Peeler, built to last.

Vulcan Lodge #229, AF&AM

17 Float Trip Weekend This will consist of a inner tube float trip for four persons on the Elkhorn River near Omaha, Nebraska plus one nights campsite at a campground along the river.

Topeka Lodge #17, AF&AM

18 Three Day/Three Night White Tail Deer hunt or goose/duck hunt Hunt in the Flint Hills. Three nights lodging provided at the Bluestem Motel in Eureka, KS and dinner for two evenings at local restaurants.

Peace Lodge #243, AF&AM

19 Shaker Table Suitable for bedside, chair side table, etc.

Top 16 by 19 1/2 tall. Oak, finished with shellac and wax.

Hays Lodge #195, AF&AM

20 Kenmore Microwave Oven Works very well. 23wx15HxMD. May be counter or cabinet mounted.

Lenexa Lodge #135, AF&AM

21 Ammunition Package 1805 rounds of 22 Long Rifle, Rim Fire Cartridges. 300 rounds of 380 Auto, Full Metal Jackets. 100 rounds of .45 Auto, 230 GR. FMJ. Parker Lodge #341, AF&AM

22 1952-53 Antique Sewing Machine Features a cabinet style sewing machine, New Home Brand Model AHC; 29wx32Hx17D. Includes accessories.

A rare one.

Lenexa Lodge #135, AF&AM

33 Humidor 24 Diamond Back DB 380 Semi Automatic .380 Pistol Hot Pink Polymer Frame with Nikel Boron Coated Slide. Fixed 3-Dot Sights. Barrel Length: 2.8, Overall Length: 5.26. Weighs only 8.8 ounces! One 6-Rd Magazine Double Action only for safety.

Derby Lodge #365, AF&AM

25 Set of Four Masonic Knives Super collection! W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Co. Includes Leather Pouch, Tip Can. Made in the U.S.A. Derby Lodge #365, AF&AM

26 Shooting Accessories for 45 Caliber Hoppe’s Bore Snake - Pistol Cleaner, Worlds Fastest Gun Bore Cleaner, cleans in 10 seconds.

Derby Lodge #365, AF&AM

27 Structure of Masonry Picture An unusual rending of Structure of Masonry.

Albert Pike Lodge #303, AF&AM

28 Photo of Lafayette Opening the Lodge Unusual Picture of Lafayette Opening the Lodge, rare, and appears to be quite old.

Albert Pike Lodge #303, AF&AM

29 Photo with George Washington Photo with George Washington closing the Lodge.

Albert Pike Lodge #303, AF&AM

30 N-Scale Model Trains and Buildings This would be a perfect starter set or could make a valuable addition to an existing collection.

Olathe Lodge #19, AF&AM

31 Murphy’s Law Poster and Chevy Wheel Clock The poster is a funny reminder of how things that always seem to go wrong despite our best efforts.

Olathe Lodge #19, AF&AM

Engraved Masonic Humidor. This is a handsome piece that you would love to own.

Hancock Lodge #311, AF&AM

34 Flask and Shot Glasses with Case Engraved with the Masonic Logo, this is a nice piece to have in your bar in the den.

Handsomely displayed.

Hancock Lodge #311, AF&AM

35 Combo Pack For the People Hancock Lodge Hat, 125th Anniversary Coffee Mug, Commemorative Coin with Certificate of Authenticity, Autographed Book; The Constitution for the United States of America.

Hancock Lodge #311, AF&AM

36 Guided Tour with Mayor of Burlington Downtown Tour This package is a guided tour by Mayor Gene Merry of Carnegie Art Gallery (over 300 pieces of art) Burlington Masonic Lodge Tour.

Burlington Lodge #66, AF&AM

37 Guided Fishing Tour of Coffey County Lake Tour conducted with George Hicks (Catfish Czar). View Kansas’s only nuclear generating plant - Wolfcreek Operating Corporation from the Lake. Includes meals for two at a local restaurant and fishing.

Burlington Lodge #66, AF&AM

38 Baikal IJ-70 (Makarov) Pistol Made by a large Russian Arms and ammunition manufacturing plant founded in 1942 (Ishevsky Mechanichesky Zavod).

Topeka Lodge #17, AF&AM

39 Masonic Paperweight A beautiful Masonic paperweight that displays the Square-and-compass + G. Blue clear tint.

Pittsburg Lodge #187, AF&AM

FALL 2014 49

on more k ic cl d an n tio uc A on k ic cl g or e. in nl -7646.

Go to kmfo For information please contact 785-357 40 Masonic Clock

48 Masonic Wooden Star

57 Set of Fantastic Books

Masonic Wall Clock with Masonic emblem inside the clock. Color fill is blue.

Pittsburg Lodge #187, AF&AM

Wood carved vintage star features the Masonic emblem and working tools.

In great shape.

Golden Rule Lodge #90, AF&AM

Nine Books written by Carl Otto, a Mason of 67 years. Many stories contain true events about his life.

Neosho Lodge #27, AF&AM

41 Masonic Bible A great way to begin the journey, this Masonic Bible features a Masonic Emblem on the front and side of the Bible.

Pittsburg Lodge #187, AF&AM

42 Masonic Belt Buckle Masonic Belt Buckle features a coin on the front with a Masonic emblem.

Attractive Belt Buckle features unique design.

Golden Rule Lodge #90, AF&AM

43 Masonic Belt Buckle Masonic Past Masters Belt Buckle with fabulous blue background on belt buckle with gold colored Masonic emblem.

Emporia Lodge #12, AF&AM

44 Masonic Belt Buckle Brass Masonic Belt Buckle with Masonic emblem. A nice oval shaped vintage Belt Buckle.

Emporia Lodge #12, AF&AM

45 Masonic Belt Buckle Brass Masonic Belt Buckle includes emblem with working tools.

The Belt Buckle is inscribed on the back.

Emporia Lodge #12, AF&AM

46 Vintage Brass Pocket Change Dish Features the Masonic emblem inscribed at the top of the dish with "POCKET CHANGE".

Orient Lodge #51, AF&AM

47 Masonic Presidents of the United States Booklet Begins with George Washington and ends with Harry Truman. This vintage booklet includes the history of each President and their Masonic Relation.

Golden Rule Lodge #90, AF&AM

49 Masonic Stained Glass

Vintage Masonic Stained Glass that measures 13 inches high and 13 inches tall.

Gorgeous colors with Masonic emblem in the center.

Orient Lodge #51, AF&AM

50 Masonic Stained Glass Vintage Masonic Stained Glass that measures 13 inches high and 13 inches tall. Gorgeous colors with Masonic emblem in the center.

Orient Lodge #51, AF&AM

51 Table Lodge Glasses for the Ceremony of Seven Toasts Beautiful cobalt blue glasses with one glass inscribed with the Masonic Emblem.

Set of five.

Lenexa Lodge #135, AF&AM

58 Set of Fantastic Books Nine Books written by Carl Otto, a Mason of 67 years. Many stories contain true events about his life.

Neosho Lodge #27, AF&AM

59 Walnut Shelves Solid Native American Walnut. 45 side, 22 high, 7 & 1/2 deep. Antique Doors (5) and 2 Shelves.

Neosho Lodge #27, AF&AM

60 Bushell Neo-XS-Golf GPS Rangefinder White Rangefinder watch is the next generation of distance made simple. Delivers more benefits with a button. Utilize the shot tracking and score keeping with this watch in your golf game.

Osage Valley #24, AF&AM

52 Dinner for 2 At Gilead Lodge Package Hunters unlimited Barbeque and $50 worth of Raffle Tickets.

Gilead Lodge #144, AF&AM

53 2 Person Pheasant Hunt 10 Bird Pheasant Hunt unguided at Lone Pine Shooting Reserve at Yates Center KS. Gilead Lodge #144, AF&AM

54 2 Person Pheasant Hunt 2 Bird 10 Bird Pheasant Hunt unguided at Lone Pine Lodge Shooting Reserve at Yates Center, KS. Gilead Lodge #144, AF&AM

55 New Craftsman 10 Radial Arm Saw Will get the job done with accuracy and adaptation in one.

Spring Hill Lodge #56, AF&AM

56 Craftsman Router with Table and Bits Like new Router. Great condition!

Router comes with Table and Bits.

Spring Hill Lodge #56, AF&AM

61 Bushell Neo-XS-Golf GPS Rangefinder White Rangefinder watch is the next generation of distance made simple. Delivers more benefits with a button. Utilize the shot tracking and score keeping with this watch in your golf game.

Osage Valley #24, AF&AM

62 Bushell Neo-XS-Golf GPS Rangefinder Gray Rangefinder watch is the next generation of distance made simple. Delivers more benefits with a button. Utilize the shot tracking and score keeping with this watch in your golf game.

Osage Valley #24, AF&AM

COMMITTED TO THE FLAMES NOW ONLY $10.00!

Was $33.95

Join renowned Masonic historian and expert code breaker S. Brent Morris as he teams up with Arturo de Hoyos, the world’s foremost authority on Masonic rituals, on a journey to break the code and solve the secrets of Folger’s mysterious manuscripts.

Hardback • 230 x 153 • 288 pages • 978-0-85318-293-1 Beautifully illustrated throughout

Effortlessly learn the history of American Freemasonry while following the story Decodes a cypher that reveals the secret three Craft degrees of Rose Croix Masonry Gain insight into the art of code breaking and Masonic ciphers Learn the origins of the myth that Freemasonry was founded by the Crusaders Discover the first recorded Masonic lodge in the United States Investigate the origins of the Knight a Beneficent of the Holy City (c.b.c.s) A true life adventure featuring an ancient manuscript owned by Macoy Publishing and involving the code breaking skills of Macoy’s staff Read a faithful reproduction of the rituals contained in the manuscript An easy to read and enthralling story

Available now from: MACOY • 3011 Dumbarton Rd • Richmond, VA 23228 • Showroom Hours Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm EST

Call: 1.800.637.4640 • Phone Hours M-Fri 8am-6:00pm EST email: info@macoy.com Visit us online at: www.macoy.com

capitol federal ÂŽ is proud to say

t h a n k yo u kansas masonic foundation for your service to our community now and into the future.

Capitol FederalÂŽ is a proud supporter of the Kansas Masonic Foundation and its philanthropic mission.

Thank you for your charitable, educational and scientific gifts, including grants in cancer research.

888-8CAPFED | CAPFED.COM