OMN - 2024 April

Who Is Your Hero

Sometimes I reflect on those who have impacted my life and provided guidance and direction.

Many are Brothers. Others have been people who have entered my life and then moved on.

Some are famous faces I’ve never met, such as historical figures, leaders of our country, or current popular media personas. Several come to mind for me, starting with historical leaders of our country, George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Abraham Lincoln, and John F. Kennedy. Growing up and watching my favorite Westerns, John Wayne was one of my early heroes. Becoming a Mason and learning several of these figures were Masons and the accomplishments they made, strengthened my belief that they had a fundamental impact on who I am today.

My grandfather, W.B. Kenneth W. Miles, was truly a role model for me growing up and one of my heroes. He was instrumental in getting me to join DeMolay. That led me to ask the right question which started my Masonic journey. He conferred all three Degrees and was my coach and mentor. The precious time I spent with him learning my proficiencies created memories that will last a lifetime, and oh-the family stories he shared.

There are a lot of people who have influenced me over the years who were ordinary people that I observed and looked up to. This year at the East-West Shrine BBQ in Baker City, I had the joy and pleasure of reuniting with my high school drafting teacher, Mel Sorenzen. I had not seen him since graduating from high school. He nurtured my interest in drafting, surveying, and engineering. He was instrumental in helping me start down the path of becoming a registered engineer, a career that I truly loved. It also got me to reflect on how those drafting skills related to Masonry like drawing straight lines, parallel lines, and a lot of right angles.

The impact of our actions is sometimes surprising. By practicing our Masonic values every day, I truly believe we are making a difference, and you never know who is watching, whether it is the newly initiated Entered Apprentice or an acquaintance on the street.

Your actions and presence in our communities creates a strong Masonic interest and our Lodges continue to be busy with Degree work. This is a result of exposure to our Masonic culture, whether firsthand or by what they have seen and read. Having a strong coach and mentor is critical to starting a man on his Masonic journey. We all need to strive to continue our Masonic learning. I find that taking on the role of coach and mentor not only is challenging but rewarding in that I continue to grow and learn as well. You just may be someone’s hero.

Sincerely and Fraternally,

Craig A. Sipp Grand Master 2023-2024

Mason EMULATE A TO

Mby W.B. Myron E. Miles, Grand Orator

y dad, W.B. Kenneth W. Miles, grew up on a small ranch along the Powder River just below Sumpter Valley. He fi nished his 8th grade education in the one-room school at Lockhart that I later attended. As a teenager, he and his brothers logged and sold cordwood to fi re the locomotives on the narrow gauge Sumpter Valley Railroad. From that he moved up to become a logger for the Stoddard Lumber Co. that logged the forests on the south side of Sumpter Valley and shipped the logs on the narrow-gauge railroad to mills in Baker City. He won the heart of the prettiest girl in the valley, married her, and started a family. When World War II broke out, he used his limited railroad experience to land a job with Union Pacific as an “essential worker” in the war effort and moved to the major switchyard for Eastern Oregon in Rieth, just west of Pendleton. He was working a double shift on a rainy night when he was bucked off a boxcar that he had climbed to the top of to set the hand brake, was run over and lost his left leg just above the knee. He survived, recovered, and was fitted with a wooden leg (made from willow), held on by a steel and leather belt around his waist. He then returned

to Baker County to buy the old home ranch from his parents where he resumed haying the meadows along the river, riding horseback caring for the cattle in the mountain pastures, and returned to his fi rst love of logging the timber growing on the ranch. Starting with a worn out, used D4 Caterpillar tractor, he built a business of contract logging for other timber owners as well as several sawmills in Baker. He drove “Cat”, set his own chokers, loaded logs on trucks with the “jammer”, and cruised timber both afoot and horseback. No one ever thought of him as a cripple. He was the toughest man I have ever known. His association with the neighboring ranchers, timber owners, dredge workers, miners, and business owners in Sumpter Valley, most of whom were Masons, led him to petition and be raised a Master Mason in McEwen Lodge No. 125. He found a close parallel between the morals and principles of Masonry and the way he had lived his life, establishing a reputation of honesty and integrity and being a man of his word. Although limited in education, he became a strict Ritualist, memorizing his parts, and studying the Ritual nearly every morning the rest of his life.

MEMBER PROFILE

Although McEwen 125 is a small Lodge in a declining ghost town in the Elkhorn Mountains, it wasn’t always that way. It was chartered June 16, 1904, in the bustling goldrush town of Sumpter by ranchers, miners, dredge workers, railroaders, bankers and businessmen and flourished until tragedy struck in August of 1917, when a fi re burned most of the town to the ground, including the prominent new two-story Lodge Hall. The town never really recovered, but the Lodge was a survivor and lived on. Kept alive by loyal members who were used to adversity in their daily lives, it welcomed my dad and his work ethic and dedication. He was Master when I came of age and mentored me through the memory work and studied hard to be able to raise me as a Master Mason. He also raised his grandson, M.W.B. Craig Sipp. In December 1994, he and Ralph Morgan, my brotherin-law, and I traveled to The Dalles to install Craig for his fi rst time as Master of Wasco Lodge No. 15.

He found a close parallel between the morals and principles of Masonry and the way he had lived his life, establishing a reputation of honesty and integrity and being a man of his word.

1. W.B. Kenneth W. Miles in his later years.

2. M.W.B. Craig A. Sipp and his grandfather, W.B. Kenneth W. Miles, at Sipp’s Worshipful Master installation at Wasco Lodge No. 15 in 1994.

3. e Miles family in 1960. Keith (21), Kenneth (44), Myron (19), Karen (17), Delma (42), Myrna (10).

4. Kenneth Miles on horseback in ont of his log loader in the yard.

5. Kenneth, Myron, and Myrna on a new D4 Caterpillar tractor equipped to skid logs in the woods, 1954.

My dad was an excellent example of a Mason who took our teachings, morals, and principles to heart, doing his best to live by them and to pass them on to his sons, grandsons, and others. He didn’t know it, but he was pioneering Masonry forward. That legacy is sorely needed in today’s world as we struggle to cope with the pressure and stress of changing times. We must be the ones to help make today’s good men better as we continue to set an example by Code and conduct and Pioneer Masonry Forward.

Photos om le to right, top to bottom:

CONTRIBUTIONS Y r

at work

Sofawni, a long-time Oregon Job’s daughter and recent high school graduate, reached out to the MasonicAid program to request fi nancial assistance for an oral surgery she was required to undergo. After the surgery, she could move forward with orthodontia treatment. The total cost of the surgery and orthodontia treatment exceeded what she and her family were able to pay. Like many families, they did not have orthodontia insurance to cover these expensive out-of-pocket costs.

Sofawni applied and was eligible for MasonicAid funds for these bills. Additionally, MasonicAid case workers made a referral to the Scottish Rite Clarke Charitable Trust to help cover the remaining cost. With this assistance, Sofawni was able to successfully undergo the surgery and move forward with the orthodontia treatment. Th is allowed her to focus on more important things, which included her coursework and completing her fi rst term of college.

A NOTE OF GRATITUDE FROM SOFAWNI

“Thank you for the financial aid to get this work done! My doctor said if I had waited any longer, I would have had permanent damage. I am really, really thankful for MasonicAid assistance! Thank you so, so much!”

THANK YOU

You made Sofawni’s experiences possible!

Your gifts to Oregon Masonic charities impact lives everyday.

Visit OregonFreemasonry.com/Donate to give online or become a monthly donor.

T h i s s u p p l e m e n t a l f i n a n c i a l a i d i s a v a i l a b l e t o b e n e f i t t h e c h i l d r e n o f

O r e g o n M a s t e r M a s o n s o r S i s t e r s o f t h e O r d e r o f t h e E a s t e r n S t a r ( 5 + y e a r s )

The Intergenerational Wisdom of Freemasonry: A Bridge Connecting Ages

Aunique and powerful element lies at the heart of the Masonic experience: the exchange of wisdom between generations.

This ancient fraternity, steeped in rich traditions and diverse membership, offers younger members a rare and invaluable opportunity: access to the wisdom of the older generations.

This benefit is not just a simple transfer of knowledge; it is a profound interaction that fosters personal growth, professional development, and a deepening of ethical understanding.

Below, we delve into the multifaceted nature of this wisdom and its significance in the Masonic journey.

Mentorship and Guidance

The mentorship available in Freemasonry transcends the typical bounds of professional advice.

Older Freemasons, with their extensive experience in both Masonic and life affairs, offer a guiding hand can help younger members navigate not only the intricacies of Masonic rituals and symbols but also the more complex challenges of life.

This guidance often takes a personal tone, addressing ethical dilemmas, professional challenges, and personal development with a depth of understanding and empathy that is hard to find in other spheres.

Transmission of Knowledge and Traditions

Freemasonry’s history and traditions are rich and complex, and older members serve as living conduits to this past.

They provide younger Masons with insights into the evolution of the organization’s practices and philosophies.

This transfer of knowledge is crucial for the preservation of Masonic traditions, ensuring that they are not only remembered but also respected and continued by future generations.

Networking and Professional Advice

The diverse nature of Freemasonry’s membership means that young Masons have access to a broad network of professionals.

Older members often provide career advice and professional wisdom, facilitating networking opportunities that can be pivotal in a young person’s career.

This aspect of Freemasonry can open doors that might otherwise remain closed.

Learning Through Real-Life Examples

There is no teacher-like experience, and older Freemasons bring a wealth of it.

Their personal stories of success, failure, resilience, and ethical decision-making provide real-life examples from which younger members can learn.

These narratives offer practical lessons and a rich, contextual understanding of how Masonic principles can be applied in everyday life.

Development of Personal Values

Masonic principles such as integrity, respect, and charity are not just theoretical concepts; they are virtues to be lived.

The older generation embodies these principles, offering younger members tangible examples of how to incorporate these values into their own lives.

This is crucial for the development of a strong personal value system.

Emotional Support and Fellowship

The relationship between younger and older Masons is more than just a transfer of knowledge; it’s a source of emotional support and fellowship.

Having access to the seasoned perspectives of older Masons can be incredibly reassuring and grounding, especially for younger members navigating the complexities of life.

Encouraging Reflective Practice

Reflective practice is a key aspect of Masonic learning, and discussions with older members encourage younger Masons to engage in this reflective process.

Through pondering the experiences and insights shared by older members, younger Masons achieve deeper self-awareness and understanding, which is essential for personal growth.

Fostering Respect for Elders

The dynamic between the generations in Freemasonry helps cultivate a culture of respect for the elderly.

This respect is integral to the Masonic ethos and extends beyond the lodge, influencing how younger members interact with elders in their wider community.

Preservation of Continuity

This exchange of wisdom is critical for the continuity of Freemasonry as an institution.

Armed with the knowledge and insights passed down, younger members are better equipped to keep the fraternity thriving and relevant in an ever-changing world.

Adaptation and Innovation

Interestingly, this exchange is not one-sided. Older Masons also benefit from the fresh perspectives brought by younger members.

This reciprocal relationship ensures that Freemasonry is not just a relic of the past but a living, evolving organization that remains relevant in contemporary society.

Insights from the 2024 Conference of Grand Masters of North America

By Marc L. Strong, Senior Grand Warden

The 2024 Conference of Grand Masters of North America convened in Seattle, Wash. from Feb. 15-20, drawing leaders from across the continent to engage in meaningful discourse and fellowship. Among the distinguished attendees representing the Oregon Jurisdiction were the Grand Lodge Trustees, the Grand Secretary, M.W.B. Michael J. McGuyer, P.G.M, and their esteemed partners. Notably, M.W.B. Michael J. McGuyer, P.G.M, holds a prominent position on the board of directors of the National Masonic Foundation for Children, exemplifying Oregon’s commitment to philanthropy and community service.

Having attended this prestigious conference for the second time, I seized the opportunity to foster connections, exchange insights, and forge bonds with Brethren from Grand Lodges spanning North America. Engaging in discussions on a spectrum of pertinent topics, ranging from gatekeeping protocols to penal codes and local Lodge affairs, offered valuable insights into shared challenges and innovative solutions. Moreover, the presence of international delegations from Paraguay, Bulgaria, Germany, and Tahiti enriched the discourse, laying the groundwork for potential collaborations and cultural exchanges.

R.W.B. Timothy J. Best’s nomination to the planning committee for the next Conference of Grand Masters of North America in Myrtle Beach, S.C., underscores Oregon’s active participation in shaping the future of Masonic conferences and initiatives. The pre-conference gathering of the Western Conference of Grand Masters, hosted by Oregon, provided a conducive environment for constructive dialogue among representatives from diverse jurisdictions. Topics including relief efforts, Masonic methodologies, and real estate management were deliberated upon, reflecting Oregon’s commitment to collective growth and advancement.

insights into various facets of Freemasonry. Noteworthy presentations included strategies for engaging candidates, the pivotal role of leadership, and contemporary challenges confronting Masonic integrity. These discussions resonated deeply with our local context, offering actionable insights to enhance Oregon Freemasonry’s trajectory.

The Conference of Grand Masters of North America serves as a beacon of unity and collaboration, embodying the timeless principles of Freemasonry that transcend geographical boundaries and unite us in our shared quest for light and understanding.

Th roughout the conference, an array of enlightening discussions captivated attendees, offering

Amidst the camaraderie and intellectual exchange, attendees were treated to the hospitality of our Brethren, including the delightful chocolatecovered macadamia nuts from Hawaii. Among the esteemed speakers, Illustrious James D. Cole, 33° Sovereign Grand Commander Supreme Council of the Southern Jurisdiction, delivered a poignant keynote address on fostering inclusivity and equality within our Masonic journey, leaving an indelible impression on all present.

As I reflect on this enriching experience, I am grateful for the opportunity to represent Oregon Freemasonry and contribute to the collective pursuit of enlightenment and fraternity. The Conference of Grand Masters of North America serves as a beacon of unity and collaboration, embodying the timeless principles of Freemasonry that transcend geographical boundaries and unite us in our shared quest for light and understanding.

174 TH GRAND LODGE COMMUNICATION

Check-in

WILDHORSE CASINO | PENDLETON, OREGON ANNUAL

JUNE 6 & 7, 2024

M.W. Grand Master, Craig A. Sipp, invites all Master Masons, their spouse, and guests to attend the 174th Annual Communication of the Masonic Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Oregon.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5, 2024

THURSDAY, JUNE 6, 2024

2:00 p .m . - 5:00 p .m .

Grand Master’s Banquet

(By invitation only, formal attire)

7:00 p .m . – Dinner

6:00 p .m . – No-host Social Hour

Check-in

7:30 a .m .

6:00 a .m . – Breakfast

Morning Session

7:45 a .m . – Musical Prelude

8:00 a .m . – Informal Opening (All Invited)

10:00 a.m. – Formal Grand Lodge Opening

10:15 a .m . – Load bus for Ladies’ Tamástslikt Cultural Institute & Lunch; departure at 10:30 a .m . (dress for the weather)

11:00 a .m . – Ballot Opened

Fellowship Luncheon

12:00 p .m .

Afternoon Session

1:00 p .m . – Call to Order

FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024

6:00 a .m . – Breakfast

Check-in

7:30 a .m .

12:00 p .m . – Call to Refreshment

4:00 p .m . – Call to Refreshment

Fellowship Banquet

(All Invited, casual attire)

“On the Oregon Trail”

6:00 p .m . – No-host Social Hour

7:00 p .m . – Dinner

Morning Session

7:45 a .m . – Musical Prelude

8:00 a .m . – Call to Order

11:00 a .m . – Ballot Closed

11:30 a .m . – Ladies’ Luncheon (Casual attire)

11:45 a.m. – Election Results Announced

12:00 p .m . – Call to Refreshment

Fellowship Luncheon

12:00 p .m .

Afternoon Session

1:00 p .m . – Call to Order

Time TBD – Ritual Closing

Installation of 2024-2025 Officers (All Invited)

4:00 p.m. – Reception to Follow

Banquets

PGMs, PGM’s Ladies, New Officers (Three separate banquets. By invitation only. Formal attire)

6:00 p .m . – No-host Social Hour

7:00 p .m . – Dinner

Tentative Agenda

LODGING

For room reservations, you may call Wildhorse Casino at (800) 654-9453 or visit the Grand Lodge website www.OregonFreemasonry.com/Annual-Communication. You will find information about accommodations and a link to take you directly to Wildhorse Casino’s special page to make room reservations for this event. There you can select your room type, as well as see the amenities and cost. If calling, be sure to inform them you are with the Masonic Grand Lodge group. Room availability is first come, first served. To receive the group rates, you must make your reservations by Sunday, May 14, 2024 .

LADIES’ EVENTS

Additional accomodations can be found at the Oxford Suites, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and Best Western. Wildhorse Casino and Hotel will provide shuttle services between hotels.

On Thursday, June 6, the Grand Master’s Lady has arranged a bus tour to the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute. Boarding will begin at 10:15 a.m., depart at 10:30 a.m., and return around 3:00 p.m. BBQ buffet lunch at Hamley’s with assorted desserts.

The Ladies “Picnic on the Prairie” themed Luncheon is Friday, June 7 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. held outdoors in the Hotel Courtyard. Casual dress atire.

MEALS

For those ladies not attending either of these ladies’ events, you are welcome to join the men during the Thursday and/or Friday Fellowship Luncheons.

Oregon Grand Lodge Officers, District Deputies of the Grand Master, and visiting dignitaries will be sent a letter with instructions for signing up for meals online. Please do not use form below. If you are NOT an Oregon Grand Lodge Officer, District Deputy, or visiting Dignitary, and not ordering online, please complete and return the form below.

To make your meal selections online, visit www.OregonFreemasonry.com/Annual-Communication

Meal tickets will not be sold at the door. Refunds unavailable to those unable to attend.

THURSDAY, JUNE 6

Reserved tickets for all meals will be provided in a packet and available for pick-up at the registration (open various hours, shown at left), so be sure your meal ticket order reaches the Grand Lodge office no later than Friday, May 17!

MEAL SIGN-UP FORM

Please return form to 2150 Masonic Way, Forest Grove, OR 97116

Please enclose a check or money order made out to The Grand Lodge of Oregon.

Ticket(s) for Classic American Break fast at $22 each

Ticket(s) for Fellowship Luncheon at $27 each

Ticket(s) for Ladies Luncheon & Tamástslikt Cultural Institute Tour at $55 each

Ticket(s) for Fellowship Banquet at $50 each

FRIDAY, JUNE 7

Ticket(s) for Classic American Breakfast at $22

Total $

Total $

Total $

Total $

Ticket(s) for Fellowship Luncheon at $36 each

Ticket(s) for Ladies Luncheon at $25 each

YOUR NAME

PHONE # EMAIL

YOUR LODGE NAME NO.

YOUR OFFICER POSITION (IF APPLICABLE)

SPOUSE NAME (IF APPLICABLE)

Total $

Total $

Total $

ANNOUNCEMENTS & INVITATIONS

DeMolay Launches Online Platform

Oregon DeMolay is launching an online Squire Manor for boys ages 9-11. The Oregon Trail Manor is a great way for any young man to connect with other boys his own age. You can live anywhere in the state and participate. Parents are welcome too. The Manor will meet via Zoom on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month.

Email Comms@ORDeMolay.org to get the link to join.

Second Annual Oregon

DeMolay Hall of Fame Gala

5-10 p.m. on April 13, 2024

5-6 p.m. no-host happy hour

Portland Yacht Club 1241 NE Marine Dr, Portland, OR 97211

Join us to honor our inductees, celebrate the past 101 years of Oregon DeMolay accomplishments, and inspire young men to become leaders.

Limited seating is available.

Tickets on sale for $125 per person. Black tie or business suit attire.

Spouses and significant others are welcome to join in the celebration and tribute.

Free, secure, gated parking available.

Scan this QR code to buy your tickets online.

SAVE THE DATE

85th Annual Malheur Cave Conferral of the Master Mason Degree August 23-25

All Master Masons invited

Questions? Contact M.W.B. Art Bush, Worshipful Master, Robert Burns Lodge No. 97 at (503) 997-2262 or at Hoseman117@gmail.com

Fraternal Exchange: Jefferson Lodge’s Festive Celebrations

One year ago, Jefferson Lodge No. 33 merged with Ainsworth Lodge No. 201, becoming Jefferson Lodge No. 33. During this transition, new furniture was needed for the Lodge due to some existing pieces possibly belonging to another Masonic body.

In September 2023, M.W.B. Tom Valente, a Past Grand Master from Montana now residing in Oregon, along with R.W.B. Jason Hamblen and their spouses, visited Montana. They were warmly welcomed by R.W.B. Daniel L. Gardiner, the Grand Secretary of Montana, who revealed a set of Lodge furniture once belonging to Yellowstone Lodge No. 26.

Following discussions between Montana and Oregon Brethren, W.B. Kris Fahndrich and his wife transported the furniture from Helena to Jefferson Lodge in October 2023, marking a significant gift to the Lodge. Jefferson Lodge continued the tradition of hosting an annual Britishstyle Festive Board, with M.W.B. Craig A. Sipp, Grand Master, and Oregon Grand Lodge Officers attending on Feb. 27, 2024. R.W.B. Daniel L. Gardiner shared the history of the acquired furniture, adding depth to the event’s significance. A memorable moment captured R.W.B. Daniel L. Gardiner taking a selfie with Festive Board attendees, embodying the spirit of fellowship at Jefferson Lodge No. 33.

Fraternally,

M.W.B. Thomas E. Valente, Jr., P.G.M. Junior Deacon, Jefferson Lodge No. 33

50 Year Jewel

R.W.B. Dale D. Wiley, DD 18, presented Brother John R. Dempster, Jr. with his 50-year jewel and certificate at his home in Bend.

Rickreall Lodge Official Visit

Rickreall Lodge No. 110 hosted its 2024 Past Masters Night and official visit from M.W.B. Craig A. Sipp. It was a fun way to spend a night with Brothers.

Change service requested