No 2
The Magazine of the Masonic Province of West Kent
September 2012
restaurant and bar staff for serving the food and drink, to Russell Pearman for producing the superb posters and to Kelvin Gane for capturing those special moments in the photographs. The event was organised on behalf of the Province by the West Kent Lodge of Charity 9610. Charity Steward Keith Clarke coordinated the event with Chaplain Terry Russell running a Grand Prize Draw which raised over £1,000 for the 2015 Festival. W Bro Doug Hughes concluded: ‘We give our special thanks to Roger, Steve and the Cambria Sea Scouts without whom this event would not have been possible.’
That Sinking Feeling! Provincial Raft Race 2012
Phil May Provincial Grand Charity Steward
Photograph © Kelvin Gane 2012
SEVEN teams competed in the Fourth Annual Provincial Raft Race held on the River Thames off Greenhithe on Saturday, September 1st 2012. The intrepid crews from Greenhithe, Sevenoaks, Sidcup and Welling Centres were joined by a team of non-masons (potential candidates) known as the “Redgrave Hulks” and a team of experienced seamen from the Provincial Office. All of the teams managed to stay afloat - just, and paddled in past the winning post in their home-made craft. Some of the rafts sank alarmingly low in the water - but all completed the course in rafts they had lashed together themselves. Race starter W Bro Doug Hughes said: ‘The rafts were made up, mostly on the day, of four plastic drums, with which the crews were supplied. They added various bits of wood, rope, ladders, scaffolding etc. – plus, of course, hope and a prayer.’ The winners - “Well in with a Chance” - from Welling, were presented the much-coveted trophy by Doug Hughes who congratulated them on their unique rafting skills. In second place were the new boys – Redgrave Hulks, followed by St John’s Boys from Sidcup in third. The day’s hosts were The Pier Hotel’s proprietors’ Phil Grigg and his partner, Kim. The couple laid on a superb barbecue, drinks and a starter’s foghorn. Special thanks go to the
Photograph © Kelvin Gane 2012
Lodge 9610 Charity Steward W Bro Keith Clarke (left) with (l to r) W Bro Dave Tickner, & Messrs Derek Rutter, Ricky Mercer and Barry Tickner In this issue: Messing about in boats ................................ 2 Congratulations .......................................... 3 Regalia Hunter ........................................... 3 Masonic Study Circle ................................... 3 The Masonic Samaritan Fund in West Kent ..... 4 Freemasonry in the Community .................... 5 Royal Arch News ...................................... 11 The Masonic Fishing Charity ....................... 12 And in Other News.................................... 13 Cornwallis Lecture 2012 ............................ 14 Honorary Membership ............................... 15 Provincial Committees & Support Teams ...... 16 Electronic Communications ........................ 17
West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 2 ~ September 2012
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Provincial Raft Race 2012 Messing About in Boats! YOU have seen the worthy winners on the front page, thanks to Kelvin Gane’s excellent photos, but in this special Olympic and Paralympic year, we should particularly remember that taking part is also very important! Here are some of the other teams who helped make it such a fun day. As well as Kelvin, WKN On-Line is grateful to Ray Leplar, who took to the water for his photos, as indeed did some of the teams: Photograph courtesy of Ray Leplar
… or were they just going so fast that their prow rose out of the water?
Photograph © Kelvin Gane 2012
Some seemed to have difficulty getting the balance of their craft right …
Photograph courtesy of Ray Leplar
The Provincial Office Raft Team (PORT) seemed to suffer this initially (above), but did later get on to a more even keel (below).
Photograph courtesy of Ray Leplar
… with several apparently overloaded at the aft end ... Photograph © Kelvin Gane 2012
Happily for all who took part, help was always close at hand if needed:
Photograph courtesy of Ray Leplar Photograph © Kelvin Gane 2012 West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 2 ~ September 2012
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Since I became Provincial Information Officer, W Bro David Johnson, a member of Trafford Park Broad Oak Lodge 4486, in the Province of West Lancashire, has regularly advised me of any West Kent Lodge’s Founder’s Jewels for sale on eBay, and I in turn have passed on the information to the relevant Lodge. David has kindly provided this service across UGLE, but he and I agreed it would make sense to have our own local volunteer in West Kent to continue this valuable service, hence the “Volunteer Required” item. W Bro Ian Gallehawk, of Rivermead Lodge 8278 has now taken on this role and between us we have discovered and passed on details of a number of Founder’s Jewels. I have already thanked David privately for his past service, and now do so publicly via this article. I would also like to thank Ian for taking on the task, which I think is invaluable as I know many Lodges are anxious to track down their Founder’s and Past Master’s Jewels. We can only speculate as to how these items fall into non-Masonic hands and hence to auctions. I have been contacted by family members, after a Mason has died, asking what they should do with the Masonic regalia. Some believe it is the property of the Lodge and must therefore be returned; others simply hope that someone else might find a use for it. Perhaps there is a case for including Masonic regalia in your will, or at least making sure that family members are aware of your wishes, to ensure that they are carried out when you are no longer around.
Congratulations! 200+ years of service Ernie Bissenden Lodge of the Men of Kent and Kentish Men 4273
ON SATURDAY, 25th February 2012 the Lodge of the Men of Kent and Kentish Men 4273 was host to W Bro Chris Roberts (then APGM), together with W Bro Alan Short (then Provincial Grand Registrar), who were accompanied by W Bro Robert Fowler, PPrDGDC and W Bro Philip Chown, PPrGStwd. They were in attendance for the presentation of a 60-year Citation to W Bro Ernest Charles Bissenden, PPrGReg. W Bro Ernie has also received 50-year Citations for Royal Arch, Knights Templar and Mark Masonry. Clearly Ernie really enjoys his Masonry and he joins a small, very select band of West Kent Masons with 200+ combined years of membership. Our picture shows Ernie flanked by W Bros Alan Short and Chris Roberts.
Mike Wheal Provincial Information Officer
Prince George Duke of Kent Court
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ECAUSE (surprise, surprise!) there is a fireworks night at Prince George Duke of Kent Court on Monday 5 t h November, W Bro Clive Moore has kindly agreed to move his talk and the Circle will not meet that night. The new arrangements are:
Apart from congratulating W Bro Ernie on his achievement, WK News would like to apologise to him because the news of his citation should have been in the previous issue but was inadvertently omitted.
Volunteer Found!
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Masonic Study Circle
Monday 3rd December 2012, at 7:30 p.m. W Bro Clive Moore will give a talk, entitled “Oh Wonderful Masons!”, which draws some parallels with the furniture and equipment of a modern Lodge. The talk will take place in the Sun Lounge at the Court and the dress code is “smart casual”. All are welcome: non-Masons, Ladies, friends, or you could bring your whole LOI!
Regalia Hunter
N the previous issue of WK News On-Line, I asked for a volunteer to help keep West Kent Lodges aware of any regalia for sale on commercial auction websites, in particular Founder’s Jewels.
West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 2 ~ September 2012
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The Masonic Samaritan Fund supporting West Kent THE 2015 Provincial Festival on behalf of the Masonic Samaritan Fund (MSF) continues to be well publicised and generously supported across the Province. Since the Festival was launched, 117 grants have been awarded to eligible beneficiaries from West Kent. These grants totaling £498,000, have been awarded in support of individuals medical, mobility, dental and respite care need. The impact of this support is best illustrated through the words of the beneficiaries – all of whom are from West Kent.
have been able to stay in our own home.” For more advice or support about carers assistance available to you, please visit our website here. Dental Grants For most, a trip to the dentist is a routine event. However, for people with mobility difficulties it can be a painful struggle simply to leave the house. Mrs Deidre Owen’s rheumatoid arthritis rendered her virtually housebound and her ill-fitting and chafing dentures served as a painful reminder. MSF has funded the provision for Deidre to receive private dental care in her own home, as there was no known NHS dentist locally able to conduct a home visit. Deidre’s husband, Richard Owen of Priory Lodge 5819 said “Please accept our most sincere thanks to MSF for your very swift action in the matter of my wife’s dentures. Without your help, she would have had to struggle on with the old set for goodness knows how long. Hopefully, at some time in the future, we will be able to repay your kindness”. Find out more about the dental provisions MSF can provide you, your partner and dependants, here
Respite Care Carers provide an invaluable role in looking after a loved one who is elderly, unwell or disabled. To enable carers to continue to provide this vital support, it is important that they have an opportunity to take a break from their caring role. Mrs Jenny O’Conor has been providing 24 hour care for her husband, W Bro Brian O’Conor from Acacia Lodge 1314, since 2004 when Parkinson’s disease progressed to impair his mobility, vision and ability to communicate.
Mobility Aid As we get older, or due to an injury or disability, we sometimes need a little help getting around. In support of helping someone to retain their independence, grants are available for Freemasons and their dependants towards the cost of mobility aids and equipment. Roger Gillett, a member of the Good Neighbour Lodge 8378, has significant osteoarthritis and was awaiting a bilateral hip replacement. Unable to leave his home alone, Roger relied upon helpful neighbours to assist with his shopping and take him to hospital appointments. MSF provided Roger with a mobility scooter, as well as three years road and vehicle insurance. Roger said “It has given me much improved
As a full time carer, Jenny plans, delivers and supervises Brian’s care as well as tending to household business. This leaves her with very little time to visit or receive the people who care for her - friends, family and grandchildren. The Masonic Samaritan Fund has provided a grant enabling Jenny to fund care for Brian allowing her a valuable respite. Jenny said “The respite care the Masonic Samaritan Fund provides has been a valuable life line for us. It enables us to fund a ‘replacement me’, a carer who is trained and understands how best to care for Brian.” “With this assistance, I was able to visit one of my children in France. It was wonderful to see my grandchildren and enjoy some time in a different climate. Without the professional support of our carer, I don’t believe we would
West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 2 ~ September 2012
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The Masonic Samaritan Fund
FITC
independence and freedom of movement. I can now manage to get around and do my bits and bobs”. Discover the types of mobility aids and home adaptions provided by MSF here
Masters Bike Ride 2012
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T was a glorious start to the day as Stuart Roberts and I set off from Clapham Common at around 07:15; there were 88 riders taking part this year. We had fine weather for the whole day, except for some strong south-westerly winds from the top of Ditchling Beacon through to the finish. This event had pledges for £20,000 which is a fantastic amount for the number of riders. It was especially good for me as I arrived first by over 40 minutes and was presented with the special yellow T-shirt (picture below - just call me “West Kent Wiggo”).
Medical Assistance At some stage in our lives, we all may need surgery as a result of bone or joint discomfort. For Carol Plowman, her knee replacement diagnosis was accompanied by the news that the surgery was only available after a lengthy wait. Carol said “The pain was very severe and it affected my mobility to such an extent, my whole quality of life was extremely difficult. I struggled to do the food shopping, the house work or even sit in a theatre or cinema chair for a whole performance”. Carol’s husband was referred to MSF by members of his Lodge, St Johns Lodge of Fidelity 5963. The Plowman’s were awarded a grant to seek private treatment and in June 2012, Carol had fully funded knee replacement surgery. She said “I cannot compliment my care enough; it was quick and efficient whilst I was always treated with care and respect. I was able to return to my family quickly, as my consultant conducted my post-op check-ups in my own home”. “My husband can notice a real improvement in me and I feel happier and healthier. I am very grateful to MSF for helping to relieve my pain and supporting me to receive the best possible care”. Find out more about the variety of medical assistance available through MSF here
Stuart and I were made very welcome by all the Middlesex Masons and we intend to return next year with hopefully more West Kent entrants. Below is an extract from an email from Paul Sully who did a fantastic job of organising the event: “We were honoured by the presence of our Pro Provincial Grand Master Roger Croome and his wife Pam, together with the Provincial Grand Master of Sussex, Kenneth Thomas and his wife Maureen, who, very kindly gave up their Saturday to join us. I know they all enjoyed the day and meeting everyone at the finish line. I also know that their presence was greatly appreciated by you all and helped to make the medal presentation all the more special for the riders. Also present was the Chief Executive of the sponsoring charity ‘Wheelpower’, Martin McElhatton, who was himself a British Paralympian. He was impressed by everyone’s efforts for the charity and the warm feeling of friendship and caring he experienced. He asked me once again to pass on his thanks to you all.”
MSF is a health and care grant making charity for Freemasons, their partners, widows and dependants. If you have a health and care need which has been identified by a medical professional and you are required by the NHS to wait longer than three months for treatment, contact MSF today or speak to your Lodge Almoner. Web: Email: Phone:
www.msfund.org.uk info@msfund.org.uk 020 7404 1550
Ronald Salter Three Columns of Shrewsbury Park 6882 West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 2 ~ September 2012
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Freemasonry in the Community
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Burgess Autistic Trust
S was reported in the previous issue of WK News On-Line, over the year 2010 to 2011, Rivermead Lodge Lodge 8278 donated £1,000 to the Burgess Autistic Trust to celebrate W Bro Paul Wheeler's year as Master. Having examined the needs of the Trust, the Lodge Charity Steward, W Bro Ian Gallehawk, applied to the Masonic Province of West Kent for additional funding. The Province was pleased to make a grant of £600 to the Trust to cover the cost of the annual fun day put on for service users. Given the importance of the day, two service users were invited to the offices of the Trust a week beforehand to be present at the cheque presentation and to say a few words themselves. The picture below shows, from left, W Bro Ian Gallehawk, Jerry Hughes, Chief Executive, Alison Harris, Fundraising and Events Manager, W Bro Steve Rozier, Worshipful Master and Charlie Evans, one of the service users.
Province of West Kent are proud to have played a small part in helping people such as Charlie and Ron to live life to the full. Ian Gallehawk Charity Steward
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Kent Air Ambulance
URING his year as Master of Swanley Lodge 5873, W Bro Jack Swift held a Ladies Festival and a special Sunday lunch to raise funds for Kent Air Ambulance. The proceeds totalled £650 and the photo below shows W Bro Jack and other members of the Lodge presenting the cheque to representatives of KAA.
Charlie's mother, Margaret, was one of the original trustees of the Trust. Charlie is 50 years old and lives at Hamilton House, one of the three supported living residences provided by the Trust, and has been a service user since the Trust was formed 30 years ago. Charlie will be at the fun day and explained that he is looking forward to the event but particularly the provision of tea, coffee and cakes! The second picture (next column) shows our Worshipful Master and Charlie again, this time with another service user, Ron Hill, and Rebecca Axford, a Supported Living Manager. Ron has lived at Winsford House, another supported living residence, for 4 years. Both Ron and Charlie can be seen proudly displaying the cheque from Province. It is clear that the Trust has had a significant, positive effect on the lives of many service users and the Lodge and the Masonic West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 2 ~ September 2012
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Freemasonry in the Community Those who took the coach to Crayford travelled in real style; the coach was the one used by the England football team. No doubt they can afford such luxury, but Gerry had negotiated a special rate to make it affordable for “normal” people. The series of evenings have all been organised in the name of Sarah Annells, Gerry’s daughter-in-law, who died from cancer in 2011. The latest evening brings the total raised to well over £8,000.
Charity Greyhound Racing
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HEN associated with dogs, the number 101 usually refers to Dalmatians. However on this occasion, it was the number of members, family and friends of Anderida Lodge 8593 who attended the Lodge’s Charity Greyhound Racing Evening on Saturday 25th August at Crayford Greyhound Racing Stadium. Some doubted the wisdom of having a third such evening in the space of twelve months, but organiser W Bro Gerry Annells was rewarded for all his hard work with a good turnout and lots of happy punters at the end of the evening (although few had made a profit on their prognostications). He was also very happy with the £1,650 that was raised during the event. On a track severely affected by the rain which fell at regular intervals, the form book went out of the window, and dogs from Trap 6 won eight of the twelve races. Even Gerry, a man who ought to know with his long involvement with greyhounds, got it wrong. He had two dogs in one race and was fairly confident about which dog would win, but his “outsider” (in form and literal terms) came romping home to win from … yes, Trap 6!
Anderida’s Master, W Bro Danny Madley (pictured above, left), and his wife Christine said “We thought everything went extremely well. The ambience, and the good humour generated by all the Brethren, families and friends who attended truly made it a night to remember.” The proceeds of the latest event will be shared between MacMillan Cancer Support and Demelza South East London.
Mike Digs for Charity
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EST KENT Mason Mike LeFevre just loves digging for charity in his back garden and so far he and his wife Sh irley h av e harv est ed an incredible £8,600 between them. Mike, from William Sennocke Lodge 6932 in Sevenoaks, lovingly landscapes his suburban plot in Kemsing into a mini- Chelsea flower show. Then he and Shirley throw a summer garden party that attracts up to 160 people. Shirley, Mike resplendent in bow tie and cream tuxedo, helped by their friends and neighbours, have made the back-garden extravaganzas over the years, afternoons to remember. As well as having Mike’s colourful landscaped garden to browse around, partygoers can enjoy
W Bro Arthur Burn (right), one of the race sponsors with the winning dog (No 6!) and owner.
Unable to rely on form, many of the Anderida crowd turned to forecast betting (nominating which two dogs would finish first and second) and one lucky (or very knowledgeable) punter managed to win £177 on a single race. I’ve agreed not to publish his name to avoid him being swamped with begging letters. However, as a clue, his initials are AB and he is also a member of Chelsfield Lodge 6405 and we are delighted that he is making an excellent recovery from his recent hip replacement.
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Freemasonry in the Community great food and drink, a hog roast, and a treasure hunt for the children. There is live music, too. This year talented West Kent musician, W Bro Dan Spencer, played and sang to partygoers. On one occasion, Mike laid on a tent and a TV so that soccer fans could watch a World Cup match and still go to the party. Rain? Visitors just shelter in the marquee and carry on enjoying themselves. Mike, a professional landscape gardener, and Shirley have now laid on four money-spinning parties. The first three were in their garden at Dynes Road, Kemsing. This year’s, which raised just over £2,600, was at their new home in Castle Drive. Mike said: “I just had to start from scratch. “So far, we have raised money for Kent Air Ambulance, Hospice In The Weald, Help For Heroes and a diabetes charity. “Landscaping the garden certainly draws in the crowds. I really enjoy these parties. It’s great when it all comes together. When I joined Freemasonry six years ago, I did it with the main purpose of raising money for charity, and I still regard this as one of the important parts. “But I have come to enjoy the many other aspects of Freemasonry, too.”
Mayor of Gravesham, Councillor Lyn Milner along with veterans and current serving soldiers. It was a great pleasure to have in attendance the Head of the Pilgrim Bandits, Lance Bombardier Ben Parkinson, of the seven Royal Horse Artillery also along with him was the chief co-ordinator of the Pilgrim Bandits Charity – Mike. Medals for the finishing team were presented by Lance Bombardier Ben Parkinson which was a very humbling moment for the runners.
The event raised £2,405 which will be used to help amputees in the British Army. A final cheque presentation took place at the Royal British Legion, Greenhithe with the local co-ordinators receiving the cheque from W Bro John Ball. This event was so successful it will become an annual event which will take place next year on Saturday 18th May 2013.
Frank Durham
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Pilgrim Bandits
Bro John Ball of the Pickwick Lodge 5448 and Worshipful Master of West Lewisham Lodge 4298, along with his trusted team of runners completed a ‘10 mile log run’ on Saturday 19th May 2012, from Strood to the Royal British Legion in Greenhithe in Kent. A 13-foot pole weighing 60 kgs was carried and the team of just eight men successfully completed the task in just over two hours. The distance was covered averaging 15 minutes a mile which is a remarkable effort for those soldiers benefiting from the proceeds who have also given to their country an immense amount for which we are all grateful and honoured. At the Greenhithe finishing point, the runners were received with a Standard Bearer from the Parachute Regiment accompanied by an escorting piper. The occasion was well attended and in special attendance were the Mayor, Councillor Victor Openshaw, Mayoress, Councillor Cheryl Openshaw and Councillor Susan Butterfill for Swanscombe & Greenhithe Town Council, the Mayor for Dartford Borough Council, Councillor Ann Allen, with her escort Kim Cooper and the
Susan Butterfill
The Masonic Fishing Charity AT the annual Ladies Night festival of Meridian Lodge of West Kent 9202, IPM and Charity Steward, W Bro Ian Garrett presented W Bro Alan Game, Chairman of the West Kent branch of the MTSFC, with the Lodge’s cheque for £1,205 which had been raised by the Brethren of the Lodge to sponsor a day's fishing for disadvantaged persons over the age of 11. W Bro Alan was delighted to receive the cheque and said that the amount donated would not only enable the Lodge to sponsor a day's fishing, but allow the Charity to continue its splendid work. (This modest piece was received from the Lodge Secretary; to see what the generous donation meant, see Alan Game’s report on Page 12).
West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 2 ~ September 2012
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Freemasonry in the Community
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5th Dartford Scout Group
N addition to the awards announced at the recent ‘Diamond Day Out’, local Scouts also benefitted from the Provincial Benevolent Fund. 5th Dartford Scout Group received a cheque for £5,000 and E Comp Brian Topliffe of Hereditary Chapter 5731 had the honour nd pleasure of presenting the cheque to Jason O’Brien, Leader of the Earley Troop.
Other Masonic Orders Leonard Cheshire Disability says “Thank You” to OSM in Kent lounge and still some money to spend towards the sensory gardens. Maureen, who has lived at Chipstead Lake for more than 13 years, said: “The new Physiotherapy Suite has made such a difference to me. The equipment is state of the art and I actually enjoy spending the time there now doing my exercises. It’s brilliant” Others were equally complimentary: “We’ve completed the move and set up of the new Physiotherapy Suite which looks wonderful and we’re looking forward to the start of the rest of the work. It’s all very exciting. I really just want to say a massive thank you from me and all the people who use our services here, for the tireless efforts made by Ralph and his colleagues from the Order of the Secret Monitor. We really can’t thank you enough and hope that having reached our target we’ll all be able to keep in touch and that you’ll drop in and see us now and again. Once again, thank you.” Michael Calver Community Engagement Manager
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HEN Ralph Apperley visited Chipstead Lake to provide some much needed archery equipment for the Activity Centre in 2008 he went even further and made a long term commitment to raise £20,000 from the Order of the Secret Monitor in Kent. Pia Rathje-Burton, Service Manager, received the cheque from the Executive Members of the Order in June 2012. The 22 residents have benefitted greatly thanks to the money provided through these magnificent Masonic efforts. Along with the contribution the money has made to the new Physiotherapy Suite, we’ve also managed to purchase adjustable tables for the Activities Centre, a physiotherapy bench, furniture for the
“I am delighted that we achieved our goal and on behalf of Ralph and I, we thank all the members of the Order for the magnificent effort made over these past three years. This donation demonstrates our caring nature and our desire to help others.” John A Dalley
West Kent News On-Line ONE of the benefits of an on-line magazine is that it can be produced more quickly (problems with the current issue notwithstanding!). The intended publication date of the next issue is December, and the deadline for submissions is Friday 30th November 2012. Please send all submissions to the Provincial Information Officer: PIO@masons-westkent.org.uk West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 2 ~ September 2012
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Freemasonry in the Community
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As they approached the summit, the team were briefed (twice!) about ‘Summit Night’, with the guide, Simon, leaving them in no doubt about the difficulty of the final ascent. The team arose at 5:00 a.m., and by 17:00 had climbed to 4,800 metres. After some food, it was bed at 19:00 (a few quaking in their sleeping bags), only to be woken again at 23:00. After a bowl of porridge, the team trudged upwards at snail’s pace because of the altitude and steep gradient. After some six hours in 35° heat, sun gradually came up so the team could see they were nearly there. Trevor got to Stella Peak at 7:35 and some 45 minutes later, to Uhuru Peak, the top of the highest free-standing mountain in the world at 5,895 metres.
Scaling the Heights
T was a story in a free London newspaper that inspired Bro Trevor McGregor of Ordnance Lodge 2399 to make a once-in-a -lifetime journey. The child suffered from Cerebral Palsy and Trevor determined to do something to raise funds for SCOPE, the main charity providing support to those suffering from this incurable condition. Looking for something different to inspire people to sponsor him, Tony chose the conquest of Mount Kilimanjaro … despite not really knowing what was involved. The project pretty much took over Trevor’s life: when he wasn’t at the gym (eventually losing over three stones in weight), he was badgering his family, friends and Masonic contacts to assist in generating sponsorship. As the months of preparation continued, with briefing and training sessions, the group of 18 who were to make the trip got to know each other better, exchanging fund-raising ideas and sympathising with each other about the rigours of training for the trip. Finally, the day arrived and the group assembled for departure, all very quiet and polite; perhaps from nerves, or the daunting nature of what lay ahead. For Trevor, that was the first of many sleepless nights. By the following day, the group were in another world: hot, excited and eager to get going. However, they had first to deal with the mundane matter that was to become a daily ritual: packing and unpacking a variety of bags and rucksacks. Trevor claims that Simon, who was fast becoming a good friend, set a new world record for the number of times a bag can be re-packed in a single hour. The task for the day was to climb some 1,300 metres through lush vegetation and it was during this that the jokes and songs helped bond the group into a real team. A support crew showed amazing strength and stamina in looking after every need of the volunteers, from food and water, to setting up the camps, even including toilets. The next day featured a climb up to 3,900 metres and the rigours of the climb and altitude began to affect the team. Food was no longer a pleasure to savour; it was fuel to be absorbed as soon as possible in order to keep up. Inevitably some people had low moments during the climbs, but a combination of team spirit (more jokes and songs) and inspiration from the beauty of the amazing variety of landscapes and vegetation kept them going.
Trevor has made new friendships he expects to be lifelong and made a life-changing trip in six days (if you ignore the preparation!), and ’implores’ people to try it for themselves! Last, but certainly not least, Trevor has so far raised a magnificent £7,000 in sponsorship for his efforts.
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Companions,
James Marsh to the Executive. I know you all, and in particular the Group 2 Chapters, will support James in exactly the same way you have supported Tony. We will also see the retirement of Ray Forster as the first independent Provincial Royal Arch Representative. He has undoubtedly led the way and laid the foundation stone for development of the work of the Lodge RA Reps and the new role for the Chapter Almoners. We will welcome David Campbell as his successor. One final change to the senior Chapter team sees Ian Vincent promoted to Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies a well earned honour. Of course we are all so sorry that his predecessor lost his long fight against illness, and our thoughts are with his family, so I am very pleased that Alan’s son Jody follows in Alan’s footsteps by becoming an active ADC. I mentioned earlier the Chapter Support Team. I would prefer it to be renamed the Royal Arch Support Team because their work will go much further than supporting struggling Chapters. We have already seen how well they organised the support for the 2013 Appeal. This year will see them introducing a support group for the Lodge Royal Arch Rep and this will be followed by a similar one for the RA Almoners in their redefined role. My final note for this issue is a ‘thank you’ for your generous support of the 2015 Festival. I have always borne in mind that donations through Chapters are the second call after your Mother Lodges, but even so the amount given by Chapters so far is approaching (and I feel certain that this year will see it exceed) £150,000.00. Fantastic!
I trust you had a good, even if a little wet, summer and you like me are looking forward to the new Masonic year. Of course the most important thing on my mind at the moment is the Provincial Annual October; the Grand Meeting on 26th Superintendent has made it quite clear to me that it will be my fault if we do not exceed the magnificent numbers achieved last year. In the region of 220 companions will be receiving honours this year and if everyone turns up with just one guest and their MEZ we will have over 500 which should not be difficult to achieve. I am writing this article having just returned from the September Quarterly Communication and must inform you that the meal in the Connaught Rooms was probably the best I have had there and the cost, in my opinion, made it exceedingly good value. However, back to the meeting ... as we did last year we will have a MEZ procession, and this year we have also invited a representative selection of new Exaltees to meet the Grand Superintendent. Add to this the presentation of the Charity Awards and we are anticipating a marvellous afternoon which will be concluded with the introduction of the new Provincial Choir. It is not too late to book your place so please come and give your support. The Calling Notice/ Booking Form is on the website: Calling Notice The meeting will also mark the closing of the 2013 Appeal in aid of the RCS. I know some Chapters will not meet until November and December and therefore our final total will not be known until early January 2013. You have responded in the way that I had expected and we are not far short of our unofficial target. Well done to you and our coordinator, Alan Cope, for this tremendous effort. The PGC Annual Meeting will see the retirement of Tony Forwell as an Assistant to the Principals and I would like to thank Tony for the hard work and devotion he has given to the job over the past three years. However I am delighted to inform you that Tony has agreed to stay on as Chairman of the Chapter Support Team, and for that I am most grateful. Of course Tony standing down has created an opening and I am very pleased to welcome
Have a good year. Bob King Deputy Grand Superintendent
West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 2 ~ September 2012
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MTSFC - The Masonic Fishing Charity The Chairman of the West Kent branch of the MFC, W Bro Alan Game, presented both Graham and Ian Garrett with a Certificate thanking them and the Brethren of their Lodge for sponsoring the event. The Lodge’s support and generosity had made the day possible. W Bro Graham Garrett replied that he was delighted with what he had seen and very impressed at what had been done. He did not realise just how much time and effort had been put in to make the event possible or the particular care that had to be taken for the safety of these young people and their special needs. He felt that it was a fine example of the work of Freemasonry in the community and did much to show that we care. Much to our surprise one of the young lads then stood up and in a very confident manner thanked everyone for a lovely day; this was followed by applause, cheers, lots of laughter and smiles. After our young friends had departed and before clearing up, a free raffle (A bottle of Whisky) was held only for the Casters, some of whom had travelled a long way at their own expense to help. The West Kent branch of the Masonic Fishing Charity was represented at the Provincial ‘DIAMOND DAY OUT’ in June. The branch had a stall which was manned throughout the day by Alan and June Game, Ken and Janet ParryHusbands, David and Sue Purser, Doug and Gwen Graham and John Berry. Sue Purser organised and sponsored ‘Catch a Duck’ for the little ones whilst June Game sponsored ‘Guess the weight of a basket of five fresh trout’ the prize being a of a bottle of Champagne. In the main arena Peter Brooker and Ken Parry– Husbands gave a display of casting, which provoked a lot of interest and some laughter as some of the audience tried to cast a fly, and got into an awful tangle! Two further events are planned for 2012, one in late September and the last in early October before the weather breaks. Both events will be held at the Yew Tree Fishery, Rotherfield, Nr. Tunbrige Wells. An invitation is extended to any Lodge or Chapter particularly from the Tunbridge Wells area to send a representative along and hopefully support us in our work. Please contact the Branch Secretary, W Bro James Lark:
Meridian Lodge 9202 Lands a Huge Catch - of Smiles! THE West Kent Branch of the Masonic Fishing Charity held its first event of the season on the Thursday 5th July at the Spring Hill Trout Fishery near Pembury, Tunbridge Wells, when a party of pupils from the Rowhill Grange Special Needs School, Wilmington came along for some fishing and some fun. The event was originally planned for early May but had to be cancelled owing to the extremely wet weather. This event was sponsored by the Meridian Lodge of West Kent 9202 and to mark this the WM W Bro Graham Garrett and Mrs Jean Garrett, together with the IPM W Bro Ian Garrett, came along to see for themselves what went on at these events. During their visit they walked around the lakeside, meeting and chatting to everyone. Fortunately the weather was fine and everything was ready when we heard that our young guests had been delayed. Why? You may well ask! Well it was because overnight, thieves had stolen the engine of the school’s people carrier! The teacher, Clare Rodgers, not wanting to let us down , organised alternative transport, and they eventually arrived, somewhat later than expected. Each youngster was quickly introduced to his instructor and off they went down to the lakeside to start fishing and catch some trout for their tea. By lunch time there had been lots of excitement as fish were caught, and likewise, groans of disappointment when they got away, but finally a beautiful 1½ lb Rainbow Trout was landed by a young lad, earning him a well deserved medal for the best, and only, fish. During the morning our caterer, W Bro Roland Stokes had been slaving away over a hot barbeque preparing a mountain of food for lunch. All the food had been professionally laid out as if for a Garden Party; it all looked so appetising. A hoard of ravenously hungry young fishermen quickly made short work of a mountain of Burgers, Sausages, grilled Chicken legs, pasta and fresh salad followed by succulent Kentish Strawberries and cream, washed down with soft drinks. After lunch came the prize giving. W Bro Graham Garrett and W Bro Ian Garrett presented each pupil with a Certificate of Merit, after which they awarded medals for the best fish, the best caster, the best retriever and for the first time, a medal for the best effort in catching a trout. Mrs Jean Garrett then drew the raffle when each of our young visitors won a prize!
james@larkpropertyservices.com Should any Lodge or Chapter wish to know more about the work of the MFC in the Province, then please contact the Branch Secretary who will arrange a for a member of the Committee to give a short presentation.
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And in Other News ... Bill Stone, and as members of the Anderida Lodge still remind me, 10 years after the event, I probably would not have sent out a Lodge summons sending them all to the meeting at Tunbridge Wells when in fact the meeting was changed by dispensation to Wrotham. Please feel free to enlist help which will of course at all times be treated as confidential.
The Best Job in Lodge/Chapter Brethren/Companions, In my opinion the best office in a Lodge or Chapter is that of Secretary/Scribe E. He is at the heart of everything and without doubt the quality of his performance sets the standard for the Lodge/Chapter. Of course the Treasurer, DC and all other Officers have an important role to play, but as a former Secretary, I am of course biased. From now on I will refer only to Lodge and Secretary, but you all know I include RA and Scribes E, and for that matter the relevant offices in all other degrees of Freemasonry. I always liken the Lodge Meeting to “Front of House”, and if all goes well and the officers all perform to the highest of standards, it all looks easy. But believe me, as anyone holding office will tell you, the better the meeting the more effort was put in preparing for it; what I call “Back of House”. A good DC relies on good officers who attend well run LOIs; a good Treasurer will keep good records of all financial transactions. A good Secretary will need to be an expert planner, agony aunt, mind reader, and have the ability to think on his feet to ensure that what were last-minute changes were actually meant all the time. To help with the key offices we in the Province already have support teams for DCs, Treasurers, Almoners and Charity Stewards … and now we have a new Secretarial Support Team (SST). The PGM asked the Scrivener’s Lodge if they could arrange this facility and I am pleased to say they have responded magnificently. We now have several experienced current and past Secretaries who are on hand to help any existing, or more importantly, new Secretaries with any problem. There is no doubt that between them they will have experienced and coped with any problem that will occur. How will it work? A Secretary who needs help will contact the Provincial Grand Secretary (PGSec) who will pass the information to the SST Coordinator, and he will then choose the best suited member of the team to help with the situation. A Secretary may also approach a PGM’s Rep to ask for this assistance, or either the Rep or the PGSec might suggest that the Secretary needs some help. I know that when I first became a Lodge Secretary I would have benefited from support from such a Team and I would not have spent two years enduring the wrath of David Mills and
Bob King Chairman, Secretary Support Team
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Clay Shooting Club
S YOU should know from recent communications, the Province now has its own Clay Shooting Club: the “West Kent Masonic Clay Shooting Club”, to give it its full title, WKMCSC for short! The Club staged the first official meeting at JJ’s Shooting Club, near Bluewater, on Saturday 9th September. Thirteen shooters took part and a great day was had by all, especially the winner, Phil Cathcpole, shown in the photo below with (l to r), Adam Miller, Sam Darroch, Phil and Club Secretary Stuart Darby.
Everyone went away looking forward to the next meeting, which is scheduled for Sunday 14th October. Further meetings are scheduled for the second Sunday of every month and new members are always welcome. For further details, contact Club Secretary, Stuart Darby, by completing the ‘Contact Form’ on the Club’s website: www.wkmcsc.org.uk
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And in Other News ... Dartford Masonic Fellowship
Separate at Birth
HE 6th of November is going to be a special day for members of the Fellowship; they will be celebrating their 25th Anniversary. The objectives of the Fellowship have not changed since it was established in 1987: the social welfare of Masons, including those retired, their Wives and Masonic Widows, meeting at Dartford twice a month to hear a Speaker at every meeting and Lunch together, enjoying each other’s company. Earlier in the year, the Fellowship had a very jolly meeting to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee.
JANUARY 2013 will see the 75th birthday of Priory Lodge 5819 and they will be celebrating with their ‘twin’: Duke of Kent Lodge 5818 of the Province of East Kent, with a joint meeting. Priory and Duke of Kent are “twin” Lodges in the sense that they were both consecrated on the same date (20th January 1939). The two Lodges keep in regular contact and as you might expect, there is an element of the normal sibling rivalry. Priory Lodge Secretary, John Revell, told WK News that, contrary to what the Lodge numbers would suggest, Priory is the senior of the two, having been consecrated in the morning, whereas Duke of Kent was consecrated in the afternoon! With approaching 100 members between them, the joint celebration is sure to be a wellattended. However, paying visitors will be welcome, so if you are interested in attending this special occasion, look out for further details to be published nearer the time.
T
This snippet raises the question of whether there are any other “twin” (i.e. consecrated on the same day) Lodges in East and West Kent, and whether they keep in touch. If so, please let WKN On-Line know about your activities and we’ll be pleased to report them:
As the pictures above and below show, everyone had a “right royal” time, not least when joining in the usual “sing songs” during and after the meal.
PIO@masons-westkent.org.uk
Cornwallis Lecture 2012
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S already announced, the 2012 Cornwallis Lecture is being given by V W Bro Roland Wade and is entitled: “The Royal Grand Master 1875 –
1901”. The remaining dates and venues are as follows:
The 120, and members and 3rd members
West Kent PG Stewards Lodge 8565 Saturday 27/10/12 at Bromley W Bro Paul Christopher - 020 8402 3419 secretary@wkpgs.org.uk
Fellowship boasts a membership of has regular attendances of around 80 at its meetings, which are on the 1st Tuesday of each month, but new are always welcome!
For further information about the Fellowship, contact the Fellowship Secretary:
Kentish Round Table Lodge 8685 Thursday 15/11/12 at Sevenoaks W Bro Ted Hogan - 01959 701 127 tedhogan@msn.com
East Kent First Principals Chapter 3931 Tuesday 11/12/12 at Canterbury E Comp Alan Meyer - 01634 232 720 alan.meyer86@yahoo.co.uk
Mrs Jean Washer 01474 708 033
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Things You Should Know Honorary Memberships Brethren and Companions, Not since 1987 has there been an official notification with regard to the election, status, rights and disabilities of an Honorary Member of a Lodge or Chapter. As a result situations are occurring that could have been prevented had the full implications been explained at the time this great privilege was conferred on the subscribing member. Rule 167 of the Book of Constitutions deals with the process for both Craft and the Royal Arch but the member’s status and disabilities go much deeper for those Brethren (Companions) who were subscribing members of just one unit. In such a case the Brother (Companion) will become unattached and his status is covered in Rule 127. To be brief, an unattached Brother (the same comments apply to a Companion):
Cannot hold office (other than Tyler or Organist) in the Lodge of which he is an Hon Member;
Has no voting rights;
Pays no membership fees;
Is no longer registered with UGLE which means that his Active Service terminated on the day he became an Hon Member, which in turn means: 1. 2. 3. 4.
The only Lodge/Chapter he can regularly attend is the one in which he is an Hon Member; He can only attend other Lodges/Chapters once in his Life time (not once a year); He cannot attend Grand or Provincial Grand Lodge/Chapter Meetings; His length of time as a Subscribing Freemason will stop and hence he will not qualify for any further long service citations.
None of the above will apply if he continues to be a subscribing member of a Past Masters’ Lodge or PZs’ Chapter, but he will have to pay Grand Lodge dues through that unit. I hope this gives a brief insight and encourages caution when a subscribing mason becomes unattached by virtue of him becoming an Honorary Member of his only Lodge or Chapter. If you are unsure the Provincial Office will be pleased to answer your queries. Bob King
2015 Festival Roll of Honour FULL details of the ‘Roll of Honour’ qualification levels for Lodges and Chapters can be found on the Provincial Website at:
The awards will be announced annually at the time of Provincial Grand Lodge and Provincial Grand Chapter meetings and the logos will be emailed to Secretaries and Scribes E as soon as possible after the meetings.
Roll of Honour Once a Lodge or Chapter has reached the “Sapphire” level, the equivalent award logo can then be included on the Summons. Should the Lodge or Chapter then go on to achieve a higher level, the award logo for the new level can then be used.
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Provincial Committees & Support Teams Provincial Lodge Support Team W Bro. Chris Roberts (Executive Member) W. Bro Chris Ashby (Chairman) 01322 619155/07860 499186 chris@sea-systems.co.uk
Almoners Committee W. Bro Doug Hughes, APGM (Chairman) W. Bro Roger Friend, ProvGAlm W. Bro Paul Freeman (Scribe) 01444 257142/07739 489742 wkalmoner.scribe@btinternet.com W. W. W. W. W.
Bro Bro Bro Bro Bro
W. Bro Fred Halligan (Secretary) W. Bro John Olbrects (Team Leader) 01474 323977/07970 012458 johno56@btinternet.com W. Bro Tim Perrin
Nick Murphy - Group 1 Almoner Bob Order - Group 2 Almoner David Campbell - Group 3 Almoner Fran Evans - Group 4 Almoner John Maxfield - Information Officer
Provincial Royal Arch Support Team E. Comp Tony Forwell (Chairman) 01322 668232/07711 657366 t.forwell@fsmail.net E. Comp Alan Cope (Secretary) 01322 291220/07503 150341 alancope@talktalk.net
Charity Committee W. Bro Doug Hughes, APGM (Chairman) W. Bro Peter Sawyer, ProvGTreas W. Bro Philip May, ProvGChStwd W. Bro Harry Maton (Secretary) 020 8406 4623/07801 305997 HJMaton@blueyonder.co.uk
E. Comp John Baker E. Comp Paul Butler E. Comp Roger Mallett E. Comp Michael Stillwell E. Comp Michael Whyte DepGSupt – Ex Officio 2ndProvGPrin – Ex Officio
W. Bro Kelvin Gane W. Bro Fred Halligan W. Bro George Buckberry E. Comp Vic Parrott E. Comp Michael Stillwell Education & Training Committee W. Bro Ian Walker, APGM (Chairman) W. Bro Harry Maton (Secretary) 020 8406 4623/07801 305997 HJMaton@blueyonder.co.uk
Secretary Support Team W. Bro Bob King, DepGSupt, PAPGM (Chairman) 020 8300 8120/07973 171487 bobking@crayweb.co.uk W. Bro John Hills (Co-ordinator) 01474 704765 hills-john@btconnect.com
W. Bro John Hills W. Bro Fred Halligan W. Bro Hari Williams
W. Bro Doug Rainbird W. Bro Alan Short W. Bro Mike Wheal
Mentoring Committee W. Bro Keith Fairweather, APGM (Chairman) W. Bro Mark Eyles-Thomas, ProvGMentor 01634 240525/07903 728508 met310@btconnect.com
Treasurers Support Team W. Bro Peter Sawyer, ProvGTreas W. Bro Paul Flowerday (Team Leader): Group 4 Craft, Group 2 RA 07958 798347 lodge@sussexvillage.co.uk
W. Bro Perri Ahmet - Group 1: Sevenoaks, Edenbridge, Sidcup, Chislehurst & Tunbridge Wells W. Bro John Perkins - Group 2: Dartford, Greenhithe, Wilmington & Wrotham W. Bro Daniel Madley - Group 3: Bromley W. Bro Phil Moore - Group 4: Welling
W. Bro Stuart Gray: Group 2 Craft, Group 1 RA W. Bro Alan Cope: Groups 1 and 3 Craft Recruitment Committee W. Bro Mark Estaugh, APGM (Chairman) W. Bro Fred Estaugh (Provincial Recruitment Coordinator) 07977 135146 ed.estaugh@googlemail.com
Provincial Placement and University Scheme Committee W. Bro Ian Walker, APGM (Chairman) W. Bro Paul Christopher (Secretary) 020 8402 3419/07754 205075 PCofBickley@ntlworld.com W. Bro Fred Halligan W. Bro Graham Staddon W. Bro Ian Walker
(continued ..)
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Provincial Committees & Support Teams (continued) Provincial Choir W. Bro Chris Roberts, DPGM (Chairman) W. Bro Andy Ryan (Deputy Chairman) Mrs Debbie Parker (Secretary) 01689 891322/07775 924868 jdebbie147@aol.com
Recruitment Committee (continued) W. Bro Graham Stanford (Centre Recruitment Officer – Bromley) W. Bro John Perkins (Centre Recruitment Officer – Dartford and Greenhithe) W. Bro Daniel Spencer (Centre Recruitment Officer – Sevenoaks and Edenbridge) W. Bro David Huntley (Centre Recruitment Officer – Sidcup) W. Bro Duncan Annells (Centre Recruitment Officer – Tunbridge Wells) W. Bro Bob Raff (Centre Recruitment Officer – Welling) W. Bro Stuart Gray (Centre Recruitment Officer – Wilmington) W. Bro Stuart Darby (Centre Recruitment Officer – Wrotham)
Provincial Oration Team V.W. Bro Graham Higgs PDepPGM – ProvGOrator higgsg@sky.com W. W. W. W. W. W. W. W.
Media Committee W. Bro Mark Estaugh – Head of Media W. Bro Mike Wheal – PIO W. Bro Martin Davies – Internal Communications W. Bro Mike Wheal – External Communications, WKN On-Line Editor W. Bro Mark Gilding – Digital Media W. Bro Kelvin Gane - Publicity
Bro Bro Bro Bro Bro Bro Bro Bro
John Johnston Tony Hayward Ron Wilson Ted Pater John Norton Doyle Dan Spencer James Ashmore Peter Smith
Provincial Sports Committee W. Bro Bob King, DepGSupt, PAPGM (Chairman) 020 8300 8120/07973 171487 bobking@crayweb.co.uk W. W. W. W.
Joint Venture Committee - East and West Kent W. Bro Mark Estaugh, APGM W. Bro Fred Estaugh 07977 135146 ed.estaugh@googlemail.com W. Bro Brian Powell, APGM (East Kent) W. Bro Anthony Elliot, Provincial Information Officer (East Kent)
Bro Bro Bro Bro
Alan Butler Peter Smith Archie Torrance Mark Eyles-Thomas
Information on Provincial Committees and Support Teams can also be found in the Provincial Handbook and on the Provincial website: www.freemasons-westkent.org.uk
Keeping this information up to date is not just a case of information for information’s sake. As stated in the opening paragraph, electronic communications are here to stay and you will miss out if you don’t keep Province informed of changes to your email address. You may wonder why I also mention mobile telephone numbers. The answer is simple: they may be needed in an emergency. I have been contacted more than once by the police, who were urgently trying to get in touch with a Brother who was at a Lodge Meeting. You details are stored on the Adelphi database, which is managed by UGLE and updated by Provincial Office. Both organisations adhere strictly to “Data Protection” guidelines, so your information is safe, so please do keep us up to date.
Electronic Communications
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UR PROVINCE is no different to the rest of world in that we increasingly use electronic means for communication, driven by the everincreasing cost of printing and postage. Provincial Office is keeping up with the times, and Secretaries and Scribes E can now send electronic versions of Summonses, Installation Returns, Accounts and those vital WK90 forms. From experiences with sending out eFlashes and other communications, it appears that changes of email address are not always being communicated. People tend to change email address (and mobile telephone numbers come to that) far more often than they move home. Please make sure that when you change your email address or mobile number, you do let your Secretary/Scribe E know so that he can pass on the information to Provincial Office.
Mike Wheal Provincial Information Officer
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