Illinois Freemasonry Magazine - Fall 2023 by Grand Lodge of IL

ILLINOIS

FREEMASONRY MAGAZINE Fall 2023 | Volume 34 | No.4 | ILMASON.ORG

Plan the Future • Annual Communication Wrap Up • 4th Quarter Anniversaries • Golf Outing Results • Masonry Corner

Table Of Contents A Letter From Our Grand Master

04 By Bro. David P. Lynch, M.W. Grand Master

Planning – Our Personal and Masonic Trestleboards

Bowl 18 Academic By Herman Albers

22 Masonry Corner

By Wayne Spooner

Gaps 10 No By Bryan R. Musicar

24 4th Quarter Anniversaries

Grand Lodge Golf Outing 2023

14 By Christopher J. Both

26 Latest Lodge News

Plan the Future 16 By Angelo S. Deserio

EDITORIAL EDITOR Edward Walker, R.W.B. glccnews@ilmason.org ASSOCIATE EDITOR Mark Schmidt, W.B. GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jennifer Woods

CONTRIBUTORS David P. Lynch, M.W. Grand Master Brian R. Musicar, Masonic Awareness Committee Wayne Spooner, Membership Chairman Angelo Deserio, Senior Grand Deacon Christopher J. Both, IMSAP Board of Managers, Chairman Herman Albers, Academic Bowl Chairman

Illinois Freemasonry (ISSN 1091-2258, USPS 014656) is published February, May , August and November by the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Illinois, 2866 Via Verde, Springfield, IL 62703; main phone (217) 529-8900. Periodical postage paid at Springfield, IL and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ILLINOIS FREEMASONRY, 2866 Via Verde, Springfield, IL 62703. Printed in the U.S.A. Permission to reprint articles appearing in this publication will be granted to recognized Masonic publications. Such permission can be requested by writing to the Grand Secretary, 2866 Via Verde, Springfield, IL 62703: by faxing to 217-529-0242: or by email at GS@ilmason.org

ARIZONA • FLORIDA

GRAND MASTER’S 2024 SNOWBIRD LUNCHEONS The 2024 Illinois Masonic Charities Fund - Grand Master’s “Snowbird Luncheons” have been scheduled. You & Your Lady or Guest are Cordially invited to attend a luncheon with The Most Worshipful Grand Master, David P. Lynch. Receptions are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. with Luncheons beginning at noon. Attire is Country Club Casual. Reservation: $15.00 per person. For further information e-mail Jodi at jlloyd@ilmason.org or call 217-529-8900. Reservations required by December 19, 2023

Reservations required by February 13, 2024

IN ARIZONA, 2024

IN FLORIDA, 2024

Tuesday, Jan. 16 Tucson/Oro Valley (520) 297-1121

Oro Valley Country Club 300 W. Greenock Drive Oro Valley, AZ 85737

Tuesday, Mar. 12 North Fort Myers (239) 360-7274

The Standard at Sabol Springs 3410 Clubview Drive North Fort Myers, FL 33917

Wednesday, Jan. 17 Sun City West (623) 584-5600

Briarwood Country Club 20800 N. 135th Ave. Sun City West, AZ 85375

Wednesday, Mar. 13 Bradenton (941) 753-6200

Rosedale Country Club 5100 87th Street Bradenton, FL 34211

Thursday, Jan. 18 Scottsdale (480) 745-8200

Courtyard by Marriott Salt River 5201 N. Pima Road Scottsdale, AZ 85250

Thursday, Mar. 14 Tampa (813) 281-1943

The Rusty Pelican 2425 N. Rocky Point Drive Tampa, FL 33607

Friday, Mar. 15 The Villages (352) 626-1246

The Brownwood Hotel 3003 Brownwood Blvd. The Villages, FL 32163

His Full Name (first and last)

Lady’s or Guest’s Full Name (first and last)

Street Address

City or Town

Lodge Name

Lodge Number

Phone Number

Are you a Veteran and/or 1st Responder? Which Military Branch?

1st Responder (Police, Fire, EMT)

State and Zip Code

Lodge Location (City, State)

I have a friend who is an Illinois Mason and would also like to attend. His Full Name (first and last)

Lady’s or Guest’s Full Name (first and last)

Street Address

City or Town

Lodge Name

Lodge Number

State and Zip Code

Lodge Location (City, State)

Total reservations I have enclosed a check in the amount of $15.00 per reservation that will be returned to me if I attend the Luncheon. If I fail to attend, my check will be donated. Mail check to: Grand Lodge of Illinois, 2866 Via Verde, Springfield, IL 62703.

A LETTER FROM OUR

GRAND MASTER

Plan the

as informed and useful Freemasons. The current activities that your Lodge plans for and are successful each year should continue. A key question is, what new activities can your Lodge try to achieve better results to bring Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth to life for our Brethren, families and local communities? Remember, your Lodge consists of the collective names and talents on the membership roll today; it is not the same Lodge that existed 10 or 20 years ago because the specific group of members has changed. We need to quit saying that “We don’t do it that way or we tried it and that didn’t work.” Keep in mind that Sam Walton had many failures that he learned from before eventually becoming one of the greatest entrepreneurs in the world. In the drive toward improved results on any topic, it is known that you learn from making mistakes, and he who learns effectively from those trial-and-error experiences wins.

Future

is my theme for Illinois Freemasonry Brethren: I am very honored and humbled to serve you, my Brethren, and this great Fraternity as the 102nd Grand Master of The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Illinois, and I thank you for this privilege. As we continue the path to growing our Fraternity in Illinois, you, the members of this great State, can decide what that path is and where we are going together. The previous theme of “Choose the Future” by Most Worshipful Brother Michael E. Jackson stressed the importance of Lodge activity and personal accountability along with advancing Illinois Freemasonry. By implementing an innovative marketing plan to tell and share our unique fraternal story to broad audiences in Illinois.

As we embrace the bright future ahead for Illinois Freemasonry, we have newer and younger members joining our ancient and honorable fraternity who are hungry for self-improvement and being useful to others. These men add to our talent pool and ability to tackle the opportunities and challenges ahead. They, along with some of our current members, may have new and different ideas that can attract many men and especially younger men to our Fraternity and improve Lodge operations. Do not discourage them; instead, encourage them to try out some of those ideas, activities, and events.

Moving forward, “Plan the Future” is my theme for Illinois Freemasonry. With that theme, we will continue fueling the positive momentum that is energizing our Brethren and attracting membership prospects across the state.

Learn and grow together as Brethren and friends. Also, how do you know the idea does not work if you do not try it? Becoming and maintaining an active and vibrant Lodge requires planning and teamwork. We want our Lodges to grow, attract quality men to join Illinois Freemasonry, support all Brethren to become better versions of themselves, help them make life-long friends, and have fun together. That valuable membership experience of fellowship as a

Now is the time for each Lodge and each member to plan the future of prosperity, respect and fun that we want as members of a vibrant Illinois Freemasonry. That planning work starts with you and your Lodge! It is time that we roll up our sleeves and get to work

The future of your Lodge is YOU, so start planning for it.”

Freemason is meaningful here in Illinois and through the connection that we enjoy with our Brethren around the world. I encourage all of you to look back and remember why you became a Freemason; also, think about why you continue to invest your time, talents, and resources as an active member. The important work that we must get accomplished today and in the future for our beloved fraternity looks different now than it did 20 years ago. We are taught through our ritual experience that to avoid confusion, we need to have designs on the Trestle Board for the building work to continue and the architect’s plans to be realized. Said differently, achieving success is not magic; it comes from planning and teamwork. Specifically, create a plan, get the Brethren involved, execute the plan, and celebrate success together. Absolutely, your Lodge needs you to volunteer and help execute its plans. Through getting involved, you will unlock some of the best experiences of being a Freemason and hopefully it will bring back some who have not been to Lodge in a while when they see the things that your Lodge is doing.

to include the GMAE activities. We have more Lodges in the state using the plan and enjoying the activities. Next, to inspire Lodge Officers to step up their ritual work proficiency together and encourage respect and pride in the Lodge, we have brought back the Lodge Officer’s Competition with a little different format. It will be an Area competition not a Statewide competition. You will compete only in your Area. The Lodges that win their respective Area competition will receive an award at the Grand Lodge Session. If you win your District competition, then you will receive a certificate to recognize that achievement. As Freemasons, we build some of our deepest friendships and relationships from working together on a worthwhile goal or project; this competition taps into that need and valuable membership experience. I look forward to seeing your Lodge’s name as a participant in this competition. Next year it will be put on the GMAE. It is still being worked on by the Board of Grand Examiners. The future of your Lodge is YOU, start planning for it. The planning that we do, the teamwork that we exhibit, the work that we execute, and the joint celebrations of success enjoyed regularly will continue moving our ancient and honorable fraternity forward. The future is ours to shape and enjoy. Illinois Freemasonry will be a treasured sanctuary to support the growth and development of good men for future generations because of what we do now to plan our work and work our plan!

Throughout Illinois Freemasonry, we provide our members and Lodges with best practices, guides, programs, and reference information to help us all work smarter and achieve repeatable success. In the Grand Lodge Program Book, we highlight several topics and resources to help you and your Lodge. Look and add this information to your personal and Lodge planning activities. Through the guidance provided especially with the Grand Master’s Award of Excellence Program (GMAE), your Lodge can implement several learning, development, community engagement and other activities to help Freemasonry flourish in the lives of our Brethren and local communities. Also, many of these activities build confidence, encourage teamwork and are just fun to do with your Brothers. If your Lodge has already incorporated the GMAE into your plan, then that is great, and I applaud you. If you received a bronze award then strive for silver, if you received silver then strive for gold. If you have not participated in the GMAE, then now is the time to update your Lodge plan

As I move into this new journey in my life, I am looking forward to serving our great Fraternity and meeting as many of my Brethren as I can on my travels. Fraternally, David P. Lynch Grand Master Plan the Future

Planning Our Personal and Masonic Trestleboards

The Trestleboard — Grounded in the skill and discipline of architecture and geometry, our fore-Brothers employed a plan or design to transform an idea or vision into a finished building, castle or cathedral.”

By Wayne Spooner

ood men, who are symbolically represented by the Rough Ashlar, knock on the door of Freemasonry in search of self-improvement and being useful to others. They are primarily seeking to be transformed and purposely embark on that faithful journey to become the best version of themselves; that destination is symbolically represented by the Perfect Ashlar. Those rough stones who are made of quality material choose, “of their own free will and accord,” to step forward into the unknown in search of Light, guidance, knowledge and support on that life-changing road ahead. For those perfect stones to be revealed, it takes a plan of action and a defined roadmap to make purposeful progress towards that desired destination. To understand the transformation just highlighted, we must bring fully into view a third Masonic symbol, the Trestleboard. Grounded in the skill and discipline of architecture and geometry, our fore-Brothers employed a plan or design to transform an idea or vision into a finished building, castle or cathedral. The Trestleboard is representative of that plan, design or map which outlines the steps and milestones along with the talents, skills and resources needed to successfully bring their vision to life. As Speculative Freemasons, the Trestleboard remains a critical symbol in our lives as we seek to plan the future for ourselves and the fraternity.

done, we can finalize the designs to place on the Trestleboard and get to work building. To illuminate this concept further, let’s dive into the Three Primary Levels of Planning that are particularly beneficial and useful to our Brethren, Lodges and fraternity.

Planning Level #1 — Individual Tasks, Projects, Events and Meetings At this level, we are focused on getting things done that have a clearly defined beginning and end. For example, to have a successful degree conferral experience, the Lodge officers must assemble a team of proficient Brethren who can execute the various roles to deliver a quality experience for the candidate on the date and time selected. The required materials and equipment must be identified and provided so that the ceremony progresses smoothly. All of the details must be planned and executed to achieve a successful degree conferral experience for the candidate and Brethren present. At this planning level, an important discipline should be implemented — Prepare, Execute, and Follow Up or Follow Through. To complete every task, project, event or meeting, draw the designs on the Trestleboard for the details on how to prepare, then those needed to execute the specific actions during, and finally outline the follow up steps afterwards. Using those three planning phases will increase the probability of repeatable success.

As Freemasons, how are we using the symbol of the Trestleboard today to transform our lives and advance the legacy of our ancient and honorable fraternity? Keep in mind that the designs or plans outlined on the Trestleboard delineates the efficient and effective use of resources (e.g. worker talents, strengths and abilities along with time and money) to generate desired outcomes and positive results. We begin by asking these foundational questions, “why are we embarking on this journey?” or “what is the purpose?” Another valuable question in our arsenal is “what does success look like?” With those answers gathered, we can move forward to address “How” to get from where we are now and arrive at that envisioned future or defined outcome. Basically, we develop ideas, ask additional questions, and evaluate options regarding the exact steps or actions needed. With all of that preparation work

Planning Level #2 — You (including your combined Professional, Personal and Civic Life) As good men who seek to live purposefully and productively, we have several priorities that span the professional, personal and civic parts of our lives. Each of those areas require plans to make progress towards our life’s goals. A best practice is to manage all of those priorities and the associated planning work from one combined Trestleboard or plan. Why? Because you are a whole person, and your allocation of scarce resources (including time and money) are best managed through one wide lens. Here is where we invoke the symbol of the 24-inch gauge, a valued Masonic working tool. Regardless of our periodic desire for more, we all have just 24 hours per day.

Assuming that we get 8 hours of sleep daily, we are left with 16 waking hours to allocate toward advancing the various priorities in our lives. Let’s widen that lens. A best practice is to view your time allocation or rather “capacity to produce” on a weekly basis; therefore, you are working with 112 waking hours (16 hours times 7 days in the week). With that bigger bucket of time to allocate, then you have more mental room to plan. You can better see the space to consistently dedicate 5 hours per week to study and practice your ritual work, use 10 hours per week for general reading activities that incorporates career, work and Masonic topics, amongst many more. Next, if you have a family, then include those priorities and activities in your wholistic plan and time allocation outlined on your Personal Tresleboard. Further, as you take on and advance in Masonic leadership roles, it is critical to get the support of your family so that you can allocate the required time needed for your ongoing learning and development, management activities, and leadership responsibilities.

overlook that last step! Remember, there are no small jobs, just work that needs to get done per the designs on the Trestleboard. The Brother who took out the trash after dinner and another who performed a long lecture during the degree ceremony both complete tasks to make the overall Masonic event a true success; recognize the work done by all. Planning is a skill that is improved by acquiring knowledge and through dedicated practice! The time investment to learn and develop planning skills is critical to the positive advancement on your personal Masonic Journey of Self-Improvement. It is a cornerstone of the exceptional work that we accomplish together as Freemasons that benefits our families, workplaces, communities and beloved fraternity. Throughout the ages, the Master Architects did the work to draw the designs on the Trestleboard for the fellow craftsmen to read and execute. Only those Brethren who attained true mastery in the skill of building, planning, design and resource allocation were entrusted with this valuable work. In our progress in Freemasonry, we are taught the timeless lesson of what occurs when the Master Architect is not available and no designs are placed on the Trestleboard. We encourage you to elevate your planning skill which is essential to your future personal success and the longevity of our Speculative Craft of Builders.

Planning Level #3 — Your Lodge and

the Fraternity

At this level, you are dealing with significantly greater complexity. Why? Because you have increased the number of people involved, have an additional entity that needs to thrive and survive, and a larger volume of tasks, projects, events and meetings to execute. Embrace that complexity and use your Masonic or organizational Trestleboard as a valued tool and discipline. First, since “Hope” is not an effective strategy, create a written plan to document and manage that complexity. Share a draft of that plan with the key people involved with executing the work outlined in the plan. In a Lodge, share the plan with the Brethren and welcome their feedback. Your plan or Trestleboard is not a document that you frame and put on the wall; it is alive and should be updated and refreshed regularly. Therefore, monitor and track the progress of the priorities, activities, events, projects and meetings outlined on this Trestleboard. Provide updates on the progress of the plan through regular update communications especially during Lodge meetings. Lastly, celebrate success together as a team for the positive results achieved; don’t

Lastly, to achieve the positive outcomes that we envision for every project we undertake, the priority aspects of our lives, and the work of Illinois Freemasonry requires us to thoughtfully and skillfully plan the future. We want to chart a transformational course to drive and achieve successful results. Invest the time and resources to improve your knowledge, skill and ability with executing the planning levels outlined above. Through the powerful use of our Personal and Masonic Trestleboards, the future of Illinois Freemasonry will be built square, level and plumb. Now, grab a pen or keyboard, and get to work! R.W.B. Wayne Spooner Grand Lodge Membership Committee Chairman

Planning is a skill that is improved by acquiring knowledge and through dedicated practice!”

What is said

No Gaps By Bryan R. Musicar

I understand this gentleman might be having a difficult day and did not want to deal with the world. I realize he may have had his mind full as he raced from an emergency room in one country to an emergency room in another. But, deeper than that, I saw a gap, a place in between what is said and what is done. How often have you heard from your doctor to lose weight, quit smoking, walk more, improve your diet, cut out sugar, do some weight-bearing exercises, or any other of a plethora of lifestyle improvement choices designed to promote healthful living? Here was an opportunity, as a physician, to act in the manner that many of his vocation like to profess; to take the stairs instead of the elevator, to put down the cigarette, to choose water over wine. Further, instead of just laughing it off with just a smile, the hypocrisy of his actions cut to the quick and his response was that of someone who got caught with their hand in the cookie jar.

n early September I was sitting on a plane from Tōkyō to Dallas writing this article about an experience I had while boarding. Standing in line to board, behind me was an American medical doctor. How did I know his profession, you may astutely ask? He was purposefully wearing his dark purple medical scrubs so all could see what his calling was. After presenting our boarding passes, we made our way toward the jet bridge. In front of me provided a choice: the escalator to the left, and the stairs to the right. Most definitely not a life-changing decision by any means. Attempting to maintain a modicum of health and realizing that I would sit for the next twelve hours, I chose the stairs. The Doctor chose the escalator. About a third of the way down the stairs as he was about to pass me, I jokingly said, “Hey Doc, shouldn’t you be taking the stairs?” He retorted with a snort of derision, “Mind of your own damned business,” and proceeded to rush past not wanting to interact further.

The Japanese have a word for this: suki ( ), a momentary gap in concentration where one can be attacked. It is a separation between what we see and

Now, this exchange, which was meant to be a bit funny, provides me with things to consider. Yes,

What is done what exists. It is where one’s opponent or counterpart, whether armed with a gun, a knife, or a briefcase, can seamlessly place their technique, their argument, or their weapon. It is a fundamental error for a soldier, police officer, lawyer, or negotiator, and it is just that – a gap; a space in place and time, which is undefended. That gap can be getting caught momentarily with the sun in your eyes, trying to remember if you turned off the stove, or brought the cat in for the night. However, in moments of life and death, or less melodramatically, in winning and losing any interaction, whether a court decision, a business deal, a street fight, or even more mundanely just getting your kid to do their homework, that gap can and will be exploited.

appellation. Yet, with such a title comes an obligation to be the person who earned it instead of just some guy who merges into the background. A Doctor, as a learned person, is, and must be, held to a different standard – a higher standard, like the Judge, the General, and the Senator. The moment they change from short pants and a tee-shirt (an everyman) to the Robe, the Scrubs, the Uniform with the Stars on the shoulder-boards, or the Suit, they become more than just the person – they become the role of the outfit they are wearing inclusive of all the expectations that society has of that role. They become more than just an adult wearing a uniform, they become that uniform. Now, what does this have to do with us? First, we are constantly being watched which means we are always being judged. If we comport ourselves with dignity and virtue, it reaffirms to those around us that we are who we say we are. Yet, if we conduct ourselves with a lack of elegance, whether in an undignified or uncouth manner, possessing a sharp and insensitive tongue, or simply forgetting simple but vital phrases such as “Please”, “Thank you”, “Excuse Me”, “I’m Sorry”, and “How may I help?” We, as before, reaffirm that we are who we act, despite what we may say. Next, as Freemasons, the moment we put on our Aprons and enter the Lodge room, or more especially invest ourselves with the Hat, the Square, and pick up the Gavel, we become that uniform. Gone is Bob Jones; in his place is Brother Jones, our Tyler. Gone is Brother Smith; what is left is Worshipful Master Smith, with powers and prerogatives which are of high importance and due solemnity and requiring a level of dignity and decorum that even the rest of the officers need not possess.

What presented me with a more interesting observation was not merely getting distracted by a warm spot in the room on a chilly day but a gap in what one says and what one does, on what one is and what one purports to be. It is the essence of false virtue and dissimulation. How can you trust the doctor that tells you to quit smoking when you see him fifteen minutes later in the parking lot lighting up? How can you trust the doctor who tells you to eat better and then you see her stuffing her face with a Big Mac and an extra-large fry? How can you trust anyone who goes by the maxim, “Do what I say, not what I do?” Had this gentleman not wanted to be held to such a standard, he should not have worn the garb of an M.D. He chose to wear that attire on a long-haul international flight, in full expectation of everyone calling him by the title “Doctor” and not “Mister” with all the rights and privileges of such a distinguished

The Apron, the Hat and Gavel, the Sword of the Tyler, and the Baton of the Marshal, are all symbols of each respective office, but if correctly done the personal grace, skill, and dignity of the man will add a polish and luster to their office. Too often we see someone take that symbol to increase their personal standing, instead of, in reverse, using their merit, poise, and character to add brilliance to their office and work. Seeing an experienced Past Master or longtime Mason forgetting basic etiquette or worse choosing to purposefully ignore it because they are just too senior to be bound by such pedestrian trivialities is anathema to Freemasonry. That person shouts to the world and whoever is around to listen or see, “I am better than my Lodge, my Worshipful Master, my Brethren, and my friends. The rules do not apply to me.” That, my friends, is a particularly pernicious gap with effects that erode the trust of all those observing. Existing within our ancient and honorable institution is unbelievably challenging. It requires a level of personal accountability and introspection that is quite intense, not for days and weeks, but for years and decades – for a lifetime. It is more than a Book of Ritual. It is more than attending Lodge meetings, doing degrees, participating in charity events and social outings, visiting sick or distressed Brethren, or standing on a Brother’s Funeral line. It is a way of living, a method that pervades the inmost recesses to improve the Core You, and to forge that thing into something that each day, hopefully, has one less gap than the day before. It is a constant, mindful, and daily application of the Square, Level, Plumb, Trowel, Gavel, and Gauge. We must be cautious and deliberate in how we act, talk, and listen and how those around us perceive us. Are we acting in a manner consistent with what we say or is there a vast gap, big enough for a truck to drive through, in what we say versus what we do? In the interest of full disclosure, I am not particularly good at this, despite continuing efforts. However, I am painfully conscious of my foibles and hopefully, after seeing our wayward Doctor, I will be able to remove just one more gap from my personality in my quest to become just a slightly more perfect ashlar tomorrow than I am today. R.W.B. Bryan Musicar Masonic Awareness Committee

Golf

Grand Lodge

O U T I N G 2 0 2 3

By Christopher J. Both

reetings Brethren! On July 17th, 2023, over ninety golfers gathered for our Annual Grand Lodge Golf Outing at El Paso Golf Club to benefit the Illinois Masonic Student Assistance Program. With beautiful weather, the day started with registration followed by a shotgun start. The course was in excellent shape and provided great competition between the teams. As the teams finished their 18th hole, they all joined together in the club house for a delicious dinner and awards ceremony. We were able to raise over $25,000 this year! Through your assistance and donations, the Illinois Masonic Student Assistance Program was able to provide over 4,700 continuing education hours to 855 educators working in Illinois school districts. Through these educators we were able to affect the lives of thousands of students throughout the State of Illinois. The IMSAP Committee members would like to send a special thank you to all our golfers, volunteers, sponsors, and all involved in making this event a success. We look forward to seeing you all on July 15th, 2024, at the El Paso Golf Club in El Paso, IL. R.W.B. Christopher J. Both IMSAP Board of Managers, Chairman

By Angelo Deserio

ur Grand Master has committed his theme for the year to be “Plan the Future.”

Plan the

Future

When I served in the United States Army, I heard phrase “Plan your Work and Work your Plan,” quite often. Understanding that, this is the way to be prepared and keep people informed. A leader has a plan for the completion of a project or the future of his team and company. A foreman has a plan for his crew to accomplish the days, weeks, and months of work to complete the job. You would not pull out of your driveway in the morning without a plan? You plan your route, with a backup. You have a calendar to plan your day, week, month at your employment and this holds true for our humble fraternity and this jurisdiction. You might have a plan for your goals with your family. Get Married? Have children? Buy a house? Save for retirement? Whatever it is, you have a plan for your future.

A good plan will give you a great guideline to build your lodge.”

We must plan for the future, understanding that the only constant is change. Your Grand Lodge Officers have begun this process by partnering with CBC as our new marketing firm, and the initial reports are very promising. But this does not stop here.

and bring back members who might have strayed for a few months or years. A good plan will show great leadership and unity of the officers. A good plan is the future and is the foundation for your lodge’s masonic edifice.

Our Future in the great state of Illinois is strong and planning for our future starts at the local lodge level. A lodge’s future starts there. Lodge officers should meet quarterly to plan and progress their lodges. A lodge senior deacon should begin to plan for his time in the East and should be considerate of the leaders before him and those to potentially lead after him.

There is not a “Template” for what a GOOD or not so GOOD plan is; it should be different for each lodge, because as we know, what works well at Sequoit lodge, might not work as well for Du Quoin Lodge or for Bodley Lodge. A plan will work, only if it is discussed, shared, implemented, and followed through and then discussed again to share what worked and what did not. Remember, communication is key to a successful plan. The two should go hand in hand for success.

A good plan should include using those ideas and events that have been successful prior to now and use input from the members that “Have never been done before” as well as those that might not have been so successful. Including ideas for leadership and keeping your lodge financially stable for years to come. As Past Grand Master Jackson has stated, the key to a vibrant lodge is activities, so brethren PLAN YOUR FUTURE. A good plan will give you a great guideline to build your lodge, build your fellowship with your members

Let us PLAN OUR FUTURE and ensure that the great and humble Fraternity is alive, strong, and vibrant in the Jurisdiction of Illinois for another five hundred years. R.W.B. Angelo S. Deserio, Senior Grand Deacon

The Academic Bowl Plans for the Future By Herman Albers

he 40th annual Illinois Masonic Academic Bowl is underway for the 2024 Tournament. Several schools have registered, and Lodges can sponsor schools at any time.

The dates of the tournament are: Sectionals – Saturday, February 17, 2024, at locations to be determined throughout Illinois. State Finals – Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Bloomington High School. One of the main goals of the program is to provide positive recognition for academic excellence. If you have attended a Masonic Academic Bowl Tournament in the past, the students have impressed you. They personify academic excellence. Another primary reason is to get lodges out of their buildings and into the community by recognizing student achievement through their scholar bowl programs. By contacting schools, coaches, and parents, Masons can become more visible to the community and to young adults who are the leaders for the next generation. A simple meal at the Lodge one evening is enough to impress the students and coaches that the Lodge genuinely cares about their efforts. Shortly after Labor Day, all lodges were sent a letter explaining the program and asking them to participate in the program. If you need a copy of the letter, talk to your lodge officers, or contact the chairman (albers@htc.net). More information on the tournament, its history, and format is available at the website (academic bowl.org). Obviously, sponsorships are an integral

2024

Illinois Masonic Academic Bowl

Be on site. Shake the hands of the coach and team members. Tell them who you are. Tell them who you are representing. Show them that Masons are interested in their school and their program. I urge you and your brethren to invest a few hours on a Saturday in our youth’s future. They will be impressed with you, and you will be impressed with them.

part of the program. A full sponsorship for each school in the tournament is $150. If a lodge cannot sponsor a school fully, partial sponsorships are recognized. Two lodges can partner to provide sponsorships for a school and a lodge can sponsor more than one school. The lodge remittance form is available on the Grand Lodge website (ilmason. org), the website or via the committee chairman. All sponsorship money is to be sent to the Grand Lodge. Lodge sponsorship of a school, however, means more than just financially supporting the program. It means lodge members are encouraged to contact the school principal, contact the coach, meet with team members, and demonstrate that they are interested in their school and program. One of the best ways to show support is to attend the Sectional Tournament in February for your school(s).

Another part of the program is to get schools involved. All IHSA registered schools with scholar bowl programs are invited to register. The website records which schools are registered. The deadline for registering is Thursday, January 11, 2024. Some coaches will not register until the deadline looms. Some coaches will register at the first opportunity. Some coaches need a gentle reminder from a local Mason to email the registration form to the chairman.

The school coach must register the team; a lodge cannot register a school. Masons are urged to check the website and if their local school is not registered, contact the school, coach, or principal, and ask them to get involved in the tournament. There is no cost to the school. Contact by local Masons is a huge part of making this program successful. With the longevity of this program and over 250 schools participating annually, the Masonic Academic Bowl program provided by the Grand Lodge is an effective way for Lodges and Masons to become more visible and involved. The Academic Bowl Committee urges you and your lodge to have influence in your community. Your school and your lodge will be better for it. Fraternally, W. B. Herman Albers Academic Bowl Chairman

Masonry Corner

ongratulations to Brother David Lynch, Most Worshipful Grand Master of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Illinois, on your installation as our Grand Master for the next two years. All of Illinois Freemasonry wish you and your officers much success as you Plan the Future of Masonry in Illinois. Congratulations also to your other officers: RWB Joe Ferrell – Deputy Grand Master; RWB Auston Smith – Senior Grand Warden; RWB James Williams – Junior Grand Warden; MWB Anthony Cracco – Grand Treasurer; RWB Franklin Cline – Grand Secretary; RWB Angelo Deserio – Senior Grand Deacon; RWB Patrick Grubbs – Junior Grand Deacon. Our Grand Master also has a superb roster of appointed officers. This was the first year that our Annual Communication was held in a different location. The Crowne Plaza was the host hotel for rooms, meals, and meetings. In my humble opinion, they did an outstanding job. There were a few hiccups along the way that will be worked on for the new year. There was plenty of staff available at all meals and the Men’s Luncheon on Friday was a big change from in the past and was quite exceptional. The Grand Master’s Banquet on Thursday night was held at the Abraham Lincoln Museum and was a very special evening spent among all that history. A very big thank you to Jan Miller and all the Grand Lodge office staff on a job well done.

minimum dues to $100 that included per capita was amended to read a $50 increase – that motion failed, original amendment was then defeated; change to Code 125 increasing the Grand Secretary’s salary by $10,000 was approved as his work load has increased substantially and there has been no pay increase for over 10 years; change to Code 256-L on changing the name of the Book of Sacred Law placed on Altar failed; change to Code 280 to add the words Sexual Orientation failed; change to Code 285 on the Overthrow of the Government failed; change to Code 287 Advancing a Convicted Felon failed; a change to Code 305 on reducing the waiting period on reviewing rejected petition passed; a change to Code 327 that would allow the Tyler to tile from withing and be available to vote passed; a change to Code 485 on a Lodge purchasing alcohol with Lodge funds failed. Enough amendments were passed that will cause a reprint of the Book of Constitution and Bylaws. Just a small reminder that if you change any of your personal information, be sure to let your secretary know of the change. It is especially important when doing a Call-em-All or communicating with a Brother that the correct information is in the Lodge database. I use the database when I need information on a Brother or a Lodge and notice that not everyone’s information is current. R.W.B. Ed Walker, Editor

Friday was spent on legislation with the following results on the many amendments that were presented: RWB James Williams was elected as Junior Grand Warden; a change to Code 202 to increase the

W.B. Mark Schmidt, Associate Editor

The process of making paper for printing is a captivating journey...”

ver wonder where the paper comes from that Illinois Freemasonry is printed on? The journey of paper from humble wood pulp to the canvas for literary and visual creativity is a fascinating tale of transformation. It all begins in the heart of a forest, where sturdy trees meet their destiny as the raw materials for printing paper. These trees, typically fast-growing varieties like pine and spruce, are harvested sustainably to ensure a continuous supply for paper production. Once felled, they embark on a thrilling adventure towards becoming the blank canvas for your favorite books, magazines, and posters. The first step in this magical metamorphosis is pulping, where the wood is broken down into its essential fibers. Think of it as a giant kitchen blender on steroids. The wood chips

are mixed with water and chemicals, creating a slurry that resembles a soupy wood stew. This mixture is then subjected to heat and pressure, causing the wood fibers to separate from the lignin, the natural glue that holds them together. The result? A pulp with the consistency of oatmeal, ready for the next phase of its journey. The pulp is now ready to embark on a rollercoaster ride through the papermaking machine, aptly named the paper mill. Here, the pulp is spread thinly onto a moving wire mesh, akin to spreading icing on a cake. As the pulpladen wire mesh advances, excess water is drained away, and the fibers start to bond together, forming a thin sheet of paper. It’s like watching a masterpiece come to life, one layer at a time. The paper is then pressed, dried, and rolled into massive rolls, ready to be shipped

off to printers around the world, where it will serve as the canvas for human creativity, bringing stories, art, and knowledge to life. In conclusion, the process of making paper for printing is a captivating journey that transforms humble wood into a versatile and essential medium for human expression. From the forest to the paper mill, each step in this adventure is a testament to human ingenuity and the art of craftsmanship. So, the next time you hold a printed book or marvel at a beautifully illustrated magazine, remember the incredible journey that began with a simple tree and ended with a world of ideas on paper. Jennifer Woods, Graphic Designer

2023 4TH Quarter Anniversaries

Congratulations Robert Mason Gill David Noah Harmon Edward William Lumm Walter Henry Leuthard Harry Andrew Riley William Gene Sizemore Richard James Matteson

Franklin Chester De Witt Empire Marion Edward Dobbins Matteson

25 72 84 126 130 164 175

Merle Ralph Shreffler Benjamin Ellis Smith Robert Lavern Deemer Howard Elmer Quiram Cleve Talkington Jr Paul Lloyd Roise Jr William Emrich Jr

Wilmington Mattoon Paxton Pleiades Cerro Gordo Berwyn King Oscar

208 260 416 478 600 839 855

Leland Vernon Porter John Franklin Price Jr James Ruid Mc Manigal Irwin George Schleichert Harold William Luce

Wilmette Park Argo-Summit Western Springs Oak Lawn Neighbor

931 1133 1136 1166 1169

Curtis Lee Healy Billy David Settles Harry Ernest Smith Danny Robert Coker Larry Vail Agans Craig Stephan Kent Edward Jerry Rollberg Sr Dean Shirley Lillis Bobbie Eugene Little William Joseph Presley Richard Kenneth Robinson Edwin Frederick Mathias Jr R. Henry Habbe Rodney Ray Ibendahl Richard Eugene Anderson Alan Stanley Mendelssohn William Wayne Vaughn Donald Wayne Berry John Clark Bucher Charles Edward Robinson John Leslie Downing III

Equality Harmony Springfield Springfield Rushville Cass St. Clair Herman Bloomington Temple Temple Jackson Washington Washington Belvidere Euclid Prairie Scott D. C. Cregier Fellowship Jerusalem Temple

2 3 4 4 9 23 24 39 43 46 46 53 55 55 60 65 77 79 81 89 90

Thomas Lee Hollon Owen Theodore Bach Richard Eugene Gibson Jack Alexander Werner George Edwin Brandon Gary Le Roy Spencer Doyle D Worlow Roy Lindel Whitmore Carl E Steward Neil Richard Cuthbertson John William Watt Darrell Stanley Smith Gordon Wayne Baldock Richard Alan Bromley Wayne Gilman Lemke Charles Evans Reich II Loren Frederick Slartman Conrad Lambert Carlson Charles L. Mc Goldrick Gary Woodruff Peterson Darrell Gene Faulkner

Rockford Rockford Rockford Rising Sun Rising Sun Empire Marion Old Glory A. W. Rawson A. W. Rawson Alpha Virden Atlanta Star in the East Star in the East Star in the East Star in the East Star in the East Star in the East Star in the East Staunton

102 102 102 115 115 126 130 141 145 145 155 161 165 166 166 166 166 166 166 166 177

Harland Wayne Frazier Harvey Herbert Baker Jr Thomas Le Roy Dyson Leon Ray De Weerdt Timmie Jay Ulm Gale Duane Beard James Jacob Shank Robert Henry Van Briesen John David Downs Wayne Arthur Olson J. A. Seanard Harold Joseph Milota Lee Bryan Watson James Harold Looft Richard Lee Snell Jack J Drexler Samuel Harvey Spector Robert Emyl Ragon Sr Jerry Robert Newcomb Gale Travelstead William Clayton Elliott Jr

Wabash Moweaqua Cyrus Fulton City Farmington Flora Ipava Byron DeSoto Raven Wenona Marine Ashmore Marseilles Makanda Chicago Chicago Casey Bromwell Blazing Star Tremont

179 180 188 189 192 204 213 274 287 303 344 355 390 417 434 437 437 442 451 458 462

David Peter Lott Max Edwin Guthrie Ronald Glen Jones Charles Matthew Bracewell Dale Lee Krouse Robert Glenn Branham Jr David Lewis Hardesty Richard Dean Voorhees William Robert Eskridge Norman Cox Cornelius Robert Monroe Singer Pat J Neiner Howard Andrew Frank Perry Eugene Price Larry Arthur Gross

Tremont Gordon Edgewood Stonefort Chatham Central Chatham Central Cuba Cuba Plainfield E. F. W. Ellis E. F. W. Ellis Manteno Comet Winterrowd Erie

462 473 484 495 523 523 534 534 536 633 633 636 641 664 667

William Walter Brown James Eugene Withers Jr Jay Edward Withers Glen Lieuel Bull Robert Eugene Alexander Franklin Gene Sweetin Gene Allen Churchill Eugene Harry Ooms Roy Francis Brazeau Douglas Lee Flanagin Keith Arnold Brogdon Sr Joe Evans David Nicholas Cunico Robert George Mikulecky Thomas Donald Sappenfield

Normal Pawnee Pawnee Buffalo Prairie Pleasant Plains Lake Creek Morning Star Crete Arcadia Palace Arcadia Palace Azure La Grange Azure La Grange Lawn Lawn Lawn

673 675 675 679 700 729 734 763 765 765 770 770 815 815 815

Erich Ott Danny Max Gray Thomas Laverne Sprouse David Arthur Christopher Ralph Wayne Halleran David Allen Gold Douglas Earl Bannister Dale Patton Porch Paul Malcolm Sliva Lawrence Daniel Hubbard David John Frasher William Joseph Bloch Jack Otis Neal Lester Francis Chasteen Sr James Wilbur Phillips

Reception Join us for a

Honoring M.W. Grand Master David P. Lynch December 16, 2023 • Medinah Shrine Center 551 Shriner Way, Addison, IL

No Host Social at 5:30 p.m. • Dinner at 7:00 p.m. Presentations to follow

$60 per person (checks made out to Crete Lodge

1419 Main St., Crete, IL 60417) or buy tickets at: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/grandlodgeofillinois/1009675

Hotel rooms are available at Hilton Garden Inn Code Grand Master Reception or https://tinyurl.com/4mdeasc9

Mazon Toledo Joseph Robbins Clover Leaf Hurst Glenview United Lombard Grand View Western Springs Hilton Oak Lawn Neighbor Neighbor Frank N. Nicol Evergreen Park

826 834 930 990 1004 1058 1098 1112 1136 1143 1166 1169 1169 1170 1171

Masonic Golf Outing Fundraiser Thank you to the Further Light Lodge No. 1130 and Anchor Lodge No. 980 for their generous donation to CASA of Vermilion & Edgar Counties! The Further Light Lodge members were a pleasure to work with during the Masonic Golf Outing fundraiser. We greatly appreciate your contribution to assist us in our goal to serve the children in our community.

Fundraising

Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation The Illinois Freemasonry (Pub. #1014-655) is published four times a year (February, May, August, November) by the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Illinois. Subscription rate is $1.00 per year. The offices of publication and headquarters and general business offices of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Illinois is 2866 Via Verde, Springfield, IL 62703. The sole owner of the publication is the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Illinois at the address listed above. There are no known bondholders, mortgage or other security holders.

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Last 12 Months

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date

Total number of copies (net press run)

49,042

47,800

Paid/requested subscriptions

48,870

47,633

Sales through dealers and carriers

TOTAL PAID CIRCULATION

48,870

47,633

Free distribution by mail

TOTAL DISTRIBUTION

48,870

47,633

Copies not distributed

172

167

I certify that the information stated is true and complete Editor

Harmony Lodge No. 3 and IMCAP Help Jacksonville Schools Foundation By Frank Cline Harmony Masonic Lodge No. 3 Officers once again presented a check in the amount of $5,000 from the Illinois Masonic Children’s Assistance Program to the Jacksonville Public Schools Foundation. The grant goes towards reading pens. Local coverage was provided by radio station WLDS-WEAI in Jacksonville. This is the third contribution IMCAP has made in our community through Harmony Masonic Lodge No. 3. The first was in 2021 for COVID

Prevention Masks made to the Jacksonville Public Schools Foundation. In 2022 a $5,000 donation was made to the Jacksonville Food Center (Food Pantry) near Thanksgiving/Christmas time so children did not go hungry. The IMCAP funds come from donations made by members, the general public and the interest derived from the sale on the Illinois Masonic Children’s Homes that were formerly in LaGrange and Murphysboro, Illinois. R.W.B. Frank Cline Secretary, Harmony Lodge No.3

Pictured are R.W. Bro. Jeremy Coumbes, Treasurer, Leslie Defrates, JPSF Executive Director, W. Bro. Brad Smith, Worshipful Master, and Bro. Robert Chipman, President of the Jacksonville Public Schools Foundation.

75 Years of Masonic Membership Honored by Occidental Lodge No. 40 By Ted Fultz A 75-Year membership pin was presented to Brother Robert L. Newman of Occidental Lodge No. 40 on September 8, 2023. Brother Newman was raised a Master Mason on September 23, 1948, and is a veteran of the United States Navy. W.B. Ted Fultz Secretary, Occidental Lodge No. 40 Pictured in the photo from left to right are RWB Johnson R. Jerrolds, Brother Robert L. Newman, and WB Ronald Yarger.