June 2020 Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 Trestleboard

Printed Every Month 130th Anniversary

JUNE 2020

Members of Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 spent Memorial Day morning honoring those that have fallen in the line of service to our country. This yearly tradition honors many Past Masters and Members of our Lodge along with many of the heroes of Florence by placing American flags at their gravesites. The Lodge has been proud to partner with the American Legion on this great tradition for many years, with each year being more attended that the previous.

1 Ticket $10 - CLICK HERE 3 Ticket $20 - CLICK HERE

Gila Valley is raffling a one of a kind American Flag Feldman Custom knife to benefit their building fund! Brother John Delavan was many things to many people. To one individual, he was a teacher that gave him the skills to provide for his family and to create beautiful works of art. Many years ago Loren Feldman went to our Brother John and asked him to teach him to make knives as he had seen John working on many knives over the years. John jumped at the chance and worked with him for many hours teaching him the finer points of knife making. Delevan went so far as to give Loren his knife making equipment so that he could continue to hone his craft. Loren took the equipment home and started a new career which would take him places he would have never dreamt.

Fast forward to know and Loren Feldman produces some of the finest knives in the world. Not only are they beautiful works of art, but they are made from some of the rarest items on earth. Museum quality dinosaur bones, rare gems, and even meteorites have been used in the making of some of his creations.

Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 reached out to Feldman Custom knives and obtained one of his finest works, an American Flag themed knife that will surely be the jewel of your collection. He started with a Carbon Damascus Steel blade, known for its strength and beauty and used for the finest of knives. The blade has an American Flag done with mosaic Damascus by famous artist Doug Ponizo from Wisconsin.

Doug Ponzio has been Making Damascus Steel in his signature style for well over 20 years. He does not just make Damascus steel, he makes amazing Mosaic Damascus steel also known as Pattern Damascus Steel. Doug is an early riser and in his shop every day, creating one of a kind works of amazing art. Doug Ponzio Mosaic pattern welded Steel is mostly sought after for knife making. Knife makers from all over the globe use his steel to make their knives. Quite simply because he can produce it with exceptional quality and unique patterns.

The Hilt is made from Stainless Steel and Chromium for strength and beauty. Making up the Red is giraffe leg bone, dye red. The Blue is Lapis sourced from the mountains of Afghanistan and the White is Marble from Marble, Colorado. From the same mine that the marble used in the Abraham Lincoln Monument in Washington DC was sourced. This is a one of a kind knife that will never be replicated. The retail price of the knife is $3595.

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Brethren!

As much as I hate to have to pen another letter talking about the covid19 pandemic, at least this time its on a more positive note. It looks like we may finally heading back to some sense normal! The stay at home order has been lifted and businesses have begun reopening, albeit with some changes.

I have really been trying my best to stay as informed as possible on all the Covid developments and it truly feels like the only consensus is that there us no consensus! Depending on what you are reading or watching this virus is either a bad cold or the worst plague to hit us since the Spanish flu. We either overreacted by locking us down for 2 months or we are reopening way too soon. Masks should definitely be mandatory or masks do nothing and will make us sick themselves. I could show stats or reports from medical experts to backup aims no matter which position suits you but for me the debate is pointless. The virus exists. It may not be deadly to you…. But it might be.

So even though we are headed back to normal we are not quite there yet. June 1st was deemed the earliest that lodges could resume business and we are fortunate enough that our stated falls on that day. So I am comfortable that we will be having our stated meeting in person, in lodge, as scheduled. However, it won’t quite be business as usual.

Out of respect to our current situation I will be implementing some temporary changes to allow our brethren to meet comfortably and safely. Until the threat of the virus has subsided I will be declaring the north side of the lodge, the social distant side. If you want to attend lodge but have concerns for your health, I ask that you sit on the north side. This will be taken as an unsaid indicator that you would appreciate a safe distance between you and others. Members are also welcome to wear their masks or gloves if that is their preference. We will also have hand sanitizer available (generously provided by brother Brian Gay). I truly hope this goes to show that the lodge cares about your health and wants to make our brothers feel safe and comfortable in our Gila Valley home.

ing forward to hearty handshakes and warm embraces is something I can definitely relate to. The worst part of practicing social distancing is all that darn distance between you and those you care about. So as much as I want to extend my hand in token of my friendship, I don’t want to do it and make someone feel embarrassed for not reciprocating or worse, guilt them into it despite their own concerns. Which is why, even though I dislike dividing the lodge, the visual shorthand of each others personal feelings, should alleviate our members of any awkward situations.

I am really looking forward to seeing you all in person again and Now as I stated at the beginning of this letter, there are definitely greeting you all, whether by handshake or big cheesy smile! two sides to everything Covid related and although I want to Fraternally, make those with concerns feel safe, I also don’t want to restrict the freedoms of others. So while the north side we be all about socially distancing, the south go back to business as usual. I 2020 Master know many of our brothers are eager to return to the way we Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 were. Not just sitting among our brothers but side by side. Look-

Anthony Raimondi

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When I was young, my dad had one of the first telephones in our neighborhood.

“Can you open your icebox?” she asked. I said I could.

“Then chip off a little piece of ice and hold it to your finger,” said the voice.

I still remember the polished old case fastened to the wall. The shiny receiver hung on the side of the box. I After that, I called “Information Please” for everything. was not tall enough to reach the telephone, but I lisI asked her for help with my geography and she told me tened with fascination when my mother would talk to it. where Philadelphia was. She helped me with my math.

Then, I discovered that somewhere inside the wonder- She told me my pet chipmunk, that I had caught in the ful device lived an extraordinary person – her name was park just the day before, would eat fruit and nuts.

“Information Please” and she knew everything.

“Information Please” could supply anybody’s number and the correct time.

Another day I was on the telephone. “Information Please.”

“Information,” said the now familiar voice.

My first personal experience with this genie-in the bottle “How do you spell ‘fix’?” I asked, in my youth. came one day while my mother was visiting a neighbor. Amusing myself at the tool bench in the basement, I whacked my finger with a hammer. The pain was terrible, but there didn’t seem to be any reason in crying there was no one home to give sympathy. I walked around the house sucking my throbbing finger, finally arriving at the stairway.

The telephone! I ran quickly to the footstool in the parlor and dragged it to the landing. I climbed up, unhooked the receiver in the parlor, and held it to my ear. “Information Please,” I said into the mouthpiece just above my head. A click or two and a small clear voice spoke into my ear.

“Information.”

Then, there was the time Petey, our pet canary, died. I called “Information Please” and told her the sad story.

She listened, then said the usual things grown-ups say to soothe a child. But I was unconsoled. I asked her, “Why is it that birds should sing so beautifully and bring joy to all families, only to end up as a heap of feathers on the bottom of a cage?”

“I hurt my finger…” I wailed into the phone. The tears came readily enough now that I had an audience.

“Isn’t your mother home?” came the question.

“Nobody’s home but me,” I blubbered.

“Are you bleeding?” the voice asked.

She must have sensed my deep concern, for she said “No,” I replied. “I hit my finger with the hammer and it quietly, “Paul, always remember that there are other hurts.” worlds to sing in.” Somehow I felt better. (cont.)

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All this took place in a small town in the Pacific Northwest. But when I was 9 years old, we moved across the country to Boston. I missed my friend very much.

then.”

“I wonder,” she said, “if you know how much your calls meant to me. I never had any children, and I used to look forward to your calls.”

“Information Please” belonged in that old wooden box back home, and I somehow never thought of trying the tall, shiny new phone that sat on the table in the hall.

I told her how often I had thought of her over the years and I asked if I could call her again when I came back to visit my sister.

As I grew into my teens, the memories of those childhood conversations never really left me. In moments of doubt and perplexity, I often remembered the serene sense of security I had at that time. I now appreciate how patient, understanding, and kind she was to have spent her time on a little boy.

“Please do,” she said. “Just ask for Sally.”

Three months later I was back in Seattle. A different voice answered, “Information.”

I asked Sally, from Paul. “Are you a friend?” she said.

A few years later, on my way west to college, my plane put down in Seattle. I had about half an hour or so between flights. I spent about 15 minutes on the phone with my sister, who lived there now. Then without thinking what I was doing, I dialed my hometown operator and said, “Information Please.” Miraculously, I heard the small, clear voice I knew so well. “Information.”

“Yes, a very old friend,” I answered.

I hadn’t planned this but I heard myself saying, “Could you please tell me how to spell ‘fix’?”

“Yes,” I managed despite my sorrow.

“I’m sorry to have to tell you this,” she said. “Sally had been working part-time in the last few years because she was sick. She passed away five weeks ago.”

Before I could hang up she said, “Wait a minute. Did you say your name was Paul?”

There was a long pause. Then came the soft-spoken answer, “I guess your finger must have healed by now, huh?”

“Well, Sally left a message for you. She wrote it down in case you called. Let me read it to you. The note said, ‘Tell him I still think there are other worlds to sing in.

He’ll know what I mean.’”

I laughed. “So it’s really still you,” I said. “I wonder if you have any idea how much you meant to me back

I thanked her and hung up. I knew exactly what Sally meant.

The

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Many in the world have a negative outlook on motorcyclists. Why? I guess that depends on the person you ask. Some view motorcyclists as mean, dirty, drunk, outlaws. Others see them (me included) as good people who ride.

stand ready to lend support to our wounded friends by involving them with an established, united organization.

We work in conjunction with local and state officials who are already in place to protect children. We desire to send a clear message to all involved with the abused child that this child is part of our organization, and that we are prepared to lend our physical and emotional support to them by affiliation, and our physical presence. We stand at the ready to shield these children from further abuse. We do not condone the use of violence or physical force in any manner, however, if circumstances arise such that we are the only obstacle preventing a child from further abuse, we stand ready to be that obstacle."

Another group is the Shriners Motorcycle Club. They are a group of like minded men who enjoy riding and also raise money for the Shriner's Hospitals for Children.

The motorcyclists I know are good people who love to ride. Some are part of a group, organization, or association where all riders have something in common beside the love for riding. Most of these riders groups are setup to help others from children to veterans.

Some other groups that I know of and am a member of are the Widows Son's Masonic Riders Association and the American Legion Riders. The Widows Son's are masons.

A couple of the groups that are out there doing good things are BACA and the Shriners Motorcycle Club.

Both of these groups were setup to help children. The BACA (Bikers Against Child Abuse) mission is this:

Fraternally,

Eric Smith

"Bikers Against Child Abuse, Inc. (B.A.C.A.) exists with the intent to create a safer environment for abused children. We exist as a body of Bikers to empower children to not feel afraid of the world in which they live. We

2020 Senior Warden Gila Valley Lodge No. 9

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W

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What being a Entered Apprentice Mason means to me! comes to me is this. ”Stones are not the only things that It’s been an amazing journey of ups and downs. Making must be measured or shaped or carved to fit into a place me question, do I really belong and the answer is yes. or function. This is also true of a man’s mind and his character. Each man has his own proper place in society It has taught me that it’s ok to be out of your comfort as a worker, as a citizen, as head of family, as a neighzone and question yourself . Before I started this jourbor, as a lodge member. Will he fit into his proper ney I didn’t even know what esoteric meant or cared but place or will he be a misfit?” know I enjoy looking for hidden truths and meanings, spending many nights looking for deeper meanings.

The Gavel reminds me that I need to take small chips More importantly it’s taught me to trust the working away from my ashlar and take a step back to reflect on tools of a Entered Apprentice Mason. what I’m trying to build! I also learned I should have gone to my Brothers and this all could have been avoidA few months back I wanted to quit freemasonry. I ed! I may not have the best memory when it comes to started to question myself and ask am I really cut out to ritual right now but I am constantly working on it and be a Mason? I started to think I’m not smart enough or getting better at it. good enough to be a Mason. I couldn’t remember my memorization after constantly reading it over and over. I I would’ve never thought the phrase “Let there be felt like a burden wasting everyone’s time and energy. light!” Could have changed me for the better!

“Why can’t I get this” I keep asking myself. Feeling like Fraternally, I’m done with the lodge and getting ready to call The Master of the lodge and tell him I’m done.

Brian Gay

Something tells me to go back to the candidates education and read the working tools. The first thing that

Entered Apprentice Gila Valley Lodge No. 9

An applicant for admission into Masonry is called a candidate. The Latin candidatus means one who is clothed in white, candidis vestibus indutus. In ancient Rome, he who sought office from the people wore a white shining robe of a peculiar construction, flowing open in front, so as to exhibit the wounds he had received in his breast. From the color of his robe or toga candida, he was called candidatus, whence the word candidate. The derivation will serve to remind the Freemason of the purity of conduct and character which should distinguish all those who are candidates for admission into the Order.

The qualifications of a candidate in Freemasonry are somewhat peculiar. He must be free-born-under the English Constitution it is enough that he is a Freeman, under no bondage, of at least twenty-one years of age, in the possession of sound senses, free from any physical defect or dismemberment, and of irreproachable manners, or, as it is technically termed, under the tongue of good report. No atheist, eunuch, or Woman can be admitted. The requisites as to age, sex, and soundness of body have reference to the operative character of the Institution. We can only expect able workmen in able-bodied men.

The mental and religious qualifications refer to the duties and obligations which a Freemason contracts. An idiot could not understand them, and an atheist would not respect them. Even those who possess all these necessary qualifications can be admitted only under certain regulations which differ under the several Masonic Constitutions. ~ (Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, Mackey) 7

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The Cooke Manuscript is the second oldest document known about Freemasonry.

stan in England where the same nine articles, rules for the job site, and nine points, rules for the Freemason, are put down.

The Cooke Manuscript was first translated and published in the Unlike the other ancient masonic documents, the charges and 1800's by R. Spencer and edited by Mr. Mathew Cooke, who gave constitutions are not put down on a scroll or rolls. Instead the his name to the manuscript.

Cooke Manuscript is written on pieces of vellum and then placed in a book which covered by two pieces of oak.

Similar to the Regius poem, the Cooke Manuscript starts in antiquity and describes the events that caused the development of James Anderson of Anderson's Constitutions, written in 1723, had Freemasonry. It starts with describing the seven liberal arts and access to the Cooke Manuscript when he wrote his constitutions. directly equating geometry with masonry. Unlike the Regius poIn a footnote at the end of Anderson's Constitutions he quotes em, the Cooke Manuscript describes the tale of the children of the last 60 lines of the Cooke Manuscript describing the assembly Lamech who was a descendant of Cain in the Book of Genesis. in York in the court of Athelstan.

One of Lamech's children is Jabal who discovers geometry. Among The Cooke Manuscript is dated at 1450. Early attempts to date Lamech's other children are Jubal who discovers music, Tubal the manuscript had it at 1482, although it was dated this way due Cain who discovers metallurgy and the art of the smith, Naameh, to a translation error by Cooke. It is believed that due to some daughter of Lamech, who invents weaving. When the children of obvious transcription errors in the document that the document Lamech learn that world is going to be destroyed either by fire or was copied from another manuscript. It is believed that the manflood they inscribe their knowledge on two pillars, one of stone uscript would have been a contemporary of the Cooke Manuand one of wood, one that will survive fire and the other that will script and unlikely that it would be from an earlier work since in float. These pillars are later discovered by Pythagoras and the 1425, Freemasons were banned from meeting together for fear other by the philosopher Hermes. The knowledge was then they would demand higher wages. passed down through Nimrod who created the Tower of Babel.

On line 603 of the Manuscript the line is found that states: For of It is here that the Cooke Manuscript comes back together with specculatyfe he was a master and he lovyd well masonry and mathe Regius Manuscript, although not completely with the details sons. And he bicome a mason hym selfe. It is believed that this is of the story. In the Cooke Manuscript the knowledge is passed to reference to the King's son having joined Freemasonry as a specuthe Egyptians and to Euclid and eventually to the court of Athellative mason.

The Pinal County Animal Care and Control is once again full of dogs and needs our help again.

Please bring in your old blankets and dog toys for us to donate for our next Stated Meeting!!

There will be a box for collection of the donated items!

Other items that are needed: Cleaning supplies - Blankets and towels – Peanut butter (xylitol-free) – Pet Food 9

Recruitment, Membership Development, Declining Membership… the discussions come in many forms.

Most of our Masonic affiliations are talking about Membership in one form or another and depending on the form they take, I think that we may becoming immune to the words. Just as there are only so many times and ways that you can be asked to volunteer, there are just so many ways to ask you to bring someone into our Fraternity.

For years, being a Mason was enough of a draw to bring people into the Fraternity and then it followed that they would move into the Shrine or other appendant body. In fact, it was installed into our heads that we were not even to ask a person to become a Mason. (Yes, we did have the 2B1ASK1 initiative thought up by some well-meaning Masons as an attempt to recruit without asking, but that did not work all that well). But now, our numbers in Blue Lodges dwindle, so follow the drop in membership the York and Scottish Rites, Shrine, Eastern Star, Amaranth,

teered for a nonprofit organization. Almost four out of five young volunteers said that did so because of their passion for the cause. More than half were motivated by their interest in meeting likeminded volunteers. And nearly 83 percent of young Americans donated money to a nonprofit last year.

Millennials value causes over specific organizations.

They want to be involved in eradicating global poverty, combating human trafficking, or cleaning up a local watershed. It’s not just about joining the Kiwanis Club or the Elks Lodge. While previous generations joined clubs and organizations first, and only then discovered ways to serve, today’s young Americans see a problem first and then look for a way to solve it. Sounds very similar to a certain Silent Generation that used to fill our Lodges and Shrines doesn’t it!

Not surprisingly, many jurisdictions have stepped up their recruiting efforts in attempts to refill the Blue Lodges with those very Millennials, and for obvious reasons the Shrine will too!

It will not be your fathers recruiting efforts!

and others are all dropping in numbers. In fact, all volunteer organizations are dropping; the Elks, Moose, Lions, Rotary, and other groups have been losing numbers for years.

Millennials are technology-savvy.

A website is only the beginning. Gen Y’s online usage extends past such basics. Interaction is key. Many no longer even listen to voicemail. Communication is done through text messaging and text messaging is done during everything from driving, to watching a game, to using the restroom. We need a platform that can go where this group is going – everywhere.

Millennials need to feel valued.

This group has plenty to offer and knows so. Their opinion is valuable. Online communities and wikis Over the past 50 years – from the Silent Generation’s are great for keeping their interest and helping them young adulthood to that of Millennials today – the be a part of your organization.

United States has undergone large cultural and societal shifts. Those shifts and had direct effects on our They want to be friends. organizations. The Boomers never joined groups like For this generation, it’s not the quality but the quantitheir parents did, and Generation X had no one to ty. Number of friends, followers and fans are very follow into our Fraternal organizations. Two whole important to their collective thinking. Connecting generations were lost. them with peers is essential to holding their interest.

Refer-a-friend features allow them to direct interested There is hope on the horizon…. according to a Case friends your way as well.

Foundation report, 73 percent of Millennials volun- (cont.)

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They want to be a part of something big.

This generation, more so than any before it, has giant dreams. They want to be the biggest next thing.

We need to illustrate to them how becoming a member of Masonry will help them achieve these goals, making them feel like a vital part of a community. They are not a number and will not tolerate feeling like one. Most importantly they want to feel special.

These are not my opinions or words, they are those of very smart people who study generational trends.

They are giving us a blueprint to keep the World’s Greatest Charity Alive and Well. Our Blue Lodges will need understand these new Generations and adapt accordingly. It will take work, it will take effort, and we will need to make changes if we are going to be viable in the future.

Happy to say that Gila Valley is already moving in that direction. We have a beautiful website, we are increasing our presence on social media, we are putting that emphasis on education and most important-

ly we are making our Lodge something we can all be proud of inside and out. We are very ready to be the NEXT BIG THING‌ AGAIN! Be a part of that resurgence, brag brag brag about your/our accomplishments. Bring them down to the meeting/event whether they are Masons or Not! Take advantage of your age, tell the younger Generations about the good you are doing, the people we are helping. (Another Millennial trait, they respect their elders and 80% of them find the older Generation trustworthy) Masonry is no longer the activity that our Grandparents did on certain nights and did not talk about. We are the future, and we are the next big thing!

Fraternally,

Roger C. Biede III 2019-2020 Junior Grand Steward Grand Lodge of Arizona F&AM

The old black shoes are looking glum As I pass the lobby door, "What's wrong with you?" they seem to say, "We're going out no more.

No friendly Festive Board No Tyler's song to say Goodnight, No organ's well-loved chord.

"Black shoes," I said, "do not despair, Our Chain is firm and strong Our flag of love remains unfurled We'll sing again our song.

We've taken not a single step, Not third or even first, And ne'er a sign we've seen you give, Has Masonry been cursed?"

And though our Brethren may have passed To Grander Lodge Above, We'll look upon their memories With everlasting Love;

"It has", I said, "by virus vile, We have to stay at home Until such time the plague has passed, Then once more we can roam.

And in their name, we'll offer help And soothe the burdened heart; We'll comfort those who are distressed, Thus Masons play their part.

The Masons' Halls are empty, Regalia put away, Gavels now stay silent, DCs hold no sway.

And when this crisis is resolved We'll sing the old refrain, Happy to Meet, Sorry to Part, Happy to meet again."

Volumes of the Sacred Law On pedestals redundant, Now Brother Jim contacts his friends By social posts abundant.

Submitted by RW Bro. B. Johnson

No handshake, word or secret sign, 11

Royal Arch Masonry (also known as "Capitular Masonry") is the first part of the York Rite system of the Masonic degrees. Royal Arch Masons meet as a Chapter, and the Royal Arch Chapter confers four degrees: Mark Master Mason, Past Master, Most Excellent Master, and Royal Arch Mason.

for this degree, Virtual Past Master is required to qualify them for it.

Much of the work is the same given to install the Worshipful Master of a Blue Lodge. There is no such requirement or procedure outside A Royal Arch Chapter is in many ways the same as a the USA. (In Pennsylvania, this degree is under the jurisdiction of Lodge; it has officers and a ritual degree system, which in this case consists of four degrees: Mark Mas- the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania ter Mason, Past Master (in some jurisdictions the de- and is conferred only to newlyelected Masters of Symbolic Lodges.)[1] gree is named Virtual Past Master, to distinguish those who have taken this degree in a Royal Arch In the Most Excellent Master degree the building of Chapter from those who were installed as a Worship- King Solomon's Temple, which figures so prominentful Master in a lodge), Most Excellent Master, and ly in Blue Lodge, has been completed. In England Royal Arch Mason. However, unlike Lodges, the ti- and Wales, the degree is conferred by Cryptic Countles of the Officers change depending on the degree cils, along with three other degrees (see below). being conferred: The Royal Arch Mason degree is said by many to be Within the York Rite, a Royal Arch Chapter works the following degrees:

the most beautiful degree in all of Freemasonry. [citation needed] Freemasons who reach this degree The Mark Master Mason degree is in some respects may continue to Cryptic Masonry or go straight an extension of the Fellow Crafts' second degree. In to Knights Templar (where permitted—requirements some jurisdictions the degree is conferred in a Fellow vary in different jurisdictions).

Craft Lodge, that is, the second degree of the Blue Honorary Degrees of Valor.

Lodge.

Fraternally, The Past Master (Virtual) degree is conferred because of the traditional requirement that only Past Masters of a Blue Lodge could be admitted to Royal Arch Masonry. Because there are so many applicants

Jim Baker 2019 High Priest Globe Chapter No. 7 RAM

www.azmasoniclibrary.org 12

Received via Brother Roger Dunn from the Southern MD GL School of Instruction

Grand Lodges. The disagreement was later healed around 1880, but by that time, there were lodges and Grand Lodges all over the United States that were descended from one group or the other, and so each group kept their corresponding initials with which they were formed, (which is the reason for which there are small differences within different states' ritual wording and Grand Lodge By-Laws and procedures). Most Grand Lodges in the U.S. recognize each other and treat each other's members as valid Masons. Also, all of the U.S. Grand Lodges recognize (and are recognized by) the official Grand Lodges of England, Ireland, Scotland and the Grand Lodges in most of Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, Thailand, India, etc. Prince Hall Masonic Lodge Historically, the regular (mainstream) Grand Lodges did not recognize the lodges under the "Prince Hall" Grand Lodges. The Prince Hall Masonic Lodge descends from a lodge of Black Freemasons in Boston begun by a Black man by the name of Prince Hall. Prince Hall Free Masonry began during the War of Independence, when Prince Hall and fourteen other free black men were initiated into Lodge # 441, Irish Constitution, attached to the 38th Regiment of Foot of the British Army garrisoned at Castle Williams...now called Fort Independence, at Boston Harbor on March 6, 1775. Later, they applied for and received a Charter from the Grand Lodge of England. After Prince Hall passed away, the lodge ceased to function. Many years later, Black Masons established their own Prince Hall Masonic Grand Lodge. They subsequently issued charters to Black men for subordinate lodges. Today, many Prince Hall Masonic Grand Lodge are recognized by the regular (mainstream) Grand Lodges.

What is the difference between A.F. and A.M. vs F. and A.M. STATES? A.F. and A.M. stands for Ancient Free and Accepted Masons. F. and A.M. stands for Free and Accepted Masons. In actuality, it does not matter whether you join an A.F. & A.M. lodge or an F. & A.M. lodge in the United States. In the U.S., every regular lodge is under the jurisdiction of its state Grand Lodge.

Due to the fact that there is no Grand Lodge Headquarters for each state's separate Grand Lodge, each state's Grand Lodge is, therefore, its own "headquarters" within that state's jurisdiction. All Freemasons, both A.F. & A.M. (which means Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, as well as F & AM, which means Free and Accepted Masons, trace their allegorical history back to the building of Solomon's temple in the Holy Scriptures. Freemasonry was exported to the British Colonies in North America in the 1730s—with both the "Ancients" (sometimes also referred to as "Antients") and the "Moderns" (as well as the Grand Lodges of Ireland and Scotland) which chartered offspring ("daughter") lodges, and organized various Provincial Grand Lodges. After the American Revolution, independent U.S. Grand Lodges formed within each state. Ancient Free and Accepted Masons vs Free and Accepted Masons From 1751 to 1813, there were actually 2 Grand Lodges in England. The difference in A.F. and A.M. vs F. and A.M. states goes back to a disagreement between these 2 Grand Lodges in London at that time. One group was called the "Moderns", but was actually the older of the 2 English Grand Lodges.

The other group was called the "Antients", which became the "Ancients" in A.F. and A.M. Due to this (Cont) disagreement, the 2 groups broke into separate 13

In other states, they are termed as affiliated. Any Prince Hall Masonic Grand Lodge which is not recognized by their regular counterparts are termed as irregular (non-mainstream) lodges. ------------------------------------------------------------------- States and the different Grand Lodges are listed below. A.F. & A.M. - Ancient Free and Accepted Masonic States There are 24 A.F. & A.M. states which include: CO, CT, DE, ID, IL, IA, KS, ME, MD, MA, MN, MO, MT, NE, NM, NC, ND, OK, OR, SD, TX, VA, WV, WY. F. & A.M. - Free and Accepted Masonic States: There are 25 F. & A.M. states which include: AL, AK, AR, AZ, CA, FL, GA, HI, IN, KY, LA, MI, MS, NH, NJ, NV, NY, OH, PA, RI, TN, UT, VT, WA, WI. All Prince Hall lodges are F. & A.M. A.F.M. - Ancient Free Masonic State: There is 1 Ancient Free Masonic State: South Carolina F.A.A.M District: F.A.A.M. - Free and Accepted Masons The District of Columbia is F.A.A.M. So, what is the difference between Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, and Free and Accepted Masons and the members of Ac-

cepted Free Mason states and Free and Accepted Mason states? The few intrinsic differences between A.F. and A. M. vs F. and A.M. states grand lodges, the A.F.M. Grand Lodge in South Carolina, and the F.A.A.M. in Washington, D.C., are minimal. While both A.F. and A.M. vs F. and A.M. states exist, along with A.F.M. states and F.A.A.M. in the District of Columbia, (with small differences in ritual wording, some officer titles, etc.) in essence, these minimal differences are not as important as the shared brotherhood between all of these groups within the fraternity. The only time that this difference might be important is if you purchase a piece of Masonic jewelry, a Past Master apron, a Masonic shirt, Masonic certificate, or other item which is engraved, embroidered or printed with a specific jurisdictional designation.

Some of these items are pre-printed with a specific designation. Therefore, knowing the designation of your particular lodge (AF and AM vs F and AM states, etc.), proves helpful so as not to mis-order an item.

What is the meaning of A.L. ?

THE YEAR OF LIGHT James Ussher (or Usher) (1581 - 1656) was the Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland between 1625 and 1656.

Today he is best remembered for calculating the year that God created the earth. Using scriptural sources he calculated that this event took place at 6 pm on 22 October 4004 BC according to the Julian calendar.

The creation of the earth is also known as Anno Lucis (the Year of Light). Freemasons, emphasizing light rather than darkness, use Ussher's calculation to designated the Year of Masonry.

This is done by adding 4004 to the current year. This year, 2020 as the Year of Masonry is therefore 6024 A.L. However, there is a catch. Human beings generally like a simple life and adding 4004 can be a wee bitty difficult. Far easier to simply add 4000. That makes the arithmetic much easier and so it is very common to find that Masonic documents bearing a date Anno Lucis (often given as: 'A.L.') are out by four years.

Whilst this is inaccurate the reason for it is understandable. However, Scottish Freemasonry generally adds 4004 not 4000 to calculate Anno Lucis. One must therefore be cautious in deciding the exact date on Scottish Masonic documents.

Source: Bro. Bob Cooper, GLoS 14

Gila Valley is playing poker for Charity! Bring an item to help a baby and cash for chips and descend upon Bro. Joe Guinn’s house on June 6th at 7pm for another great night of Poker with your Brothers! We are asking that you bring something to donate to Compassion Connect that will help fill their Care Closet. Bring Diapers and or baby wipes! Anything that a baby might need, we want to fill it up!

The poker is Texas Hold ‘em and the Cigars are Cuban… or from other tobacco growing counties! There is a pool and hot tub for those so inclined. We will be enjoying pulled pork sandwiches for dinner. $20 initial buy in, rebuys unlimited, cash game.

For information, Contact the Poker Commission Bro. Joe Guinn at guinnjoe@gmail.com.

CALIENTE COFFEE CLUB SINCE 1985

First and third Tuesday at 9:00 am Caliente Club House, Florence Arizona

MASONIC CONVERSATION, FELLOWSHIP, and EDUCATION For Information call Dewey at 520.576.2329

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Freemasonry, once speculative Freemasonry began being practiced, came to the attention of organized religions. There are a variety of reasons that are cited why there is a negative reaction of some in the religious community to Freemasonry and why they are opposed to the Masonic Fraternity. Often the reasons are based on information that has long since been debunked. Regardless of the information that is put forward to explain or persuade others that the negative reasoning is not true, the belief is held almost in a dogmatic way by some.

Most commonly claimed, particularly by Christian religions that are opposed to Freemasonry, is that Masons are not Christian. In a sense that is true, there are people of many different faiths who are part of Freemasonry around the world. Within the United States the vast majority of Freemasons are Christian, this is because Christianity is the predominant religion in the United States. In Turkey it is most likely Islam, in Israel most likely Judaism, the list can go on and on. Because of the multi-religious nature of its members Freemasonry has chosen words to refer to Deity that are not based in any one religion. Grand Architect of the Universe (GATU), is a very common phrase that is used in Masonic lodges and ritual. It is a phrase that allows the individual to look into their faith and soul to determine what their beliefs are. It also allows for the most important aspect of Freemasonry to take place, meeting on the level. When we are able to see past religious differences in our lodge rooms we are able to accomplish more with those around us and treat each other as equals, which is what "meeting on the level" means to a Freemason.

The phrase "Grand Architect of the Universe" also helps to get Freemasonry in trouble again with religious groups. There is confusion both outside and

inside of the fraternity as to why this phrase is used.

As was previously stated it is something that is meant to bring members together to recognize that every individual has their own faith and their own way of expressing that faith. Faith is important word when it comes to Freemasonry. Within the body of Freemasonry all who enter our doors are individuals of faith.

This is not meant by the definition which classifies faith as a religion. It defines the more "generic" idea of faith, a belief in something that is unseen and intangible, yet we are confident it is there and we can trust in it. The ceremonies, ritual and methods of how that faith is expressed is left to the individual Freemason to decide for themselves. Knowing that the individual entering Freemasonry has that faith is all that is necessary.

The idea that faith is up to the individual may be where Freemasonry, particularly in the early days of speculative Freemasonry, came into conflict with religions of the time and perhaps still does. Speculative Freemasonry came into being largely in the years leading up to and through the Enlightenment. Freemasonry allows the individual to explore faith on their own, there is no push in one direction or another. In fact discussion of religion, just like politics, is forbidden in a Masonic lodge. It is not to be a forum to try and convince a captive audience why they should or should not believe in one cause or another, or one religion or another. During the Enlightenment individuals started looking for answers to questions outside of religion, Freemasonry was the embodiment of this principle with many of it's members being Enlightenment thinkers.

Regardless of the reason or reasons behind it, some religions and Freemasonry have clashed through out history. Regardless of those clashes Freemasonry has at it's core the belief of equality to all and respect of the beliefs of the individual.

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watch a movie or just have a good So, we now are starting to hit that point in the time by your year where we go well if I don’t get up now pool (if you and get work done it will be to hot, it is time have one). In to start getting up earlier or staying up later or my case I have remaining indoors. So, to help you with this been staying issue here are some fun things that you could in connection do to help get you out of the man it is too hot with a group of friends blues. from around the States playing If you have a way to keep the sun off, you and D&D. Which for those who don’t you don’t mind the heat go out and take a know, it is a roll playing game that walk or go to the range! I know of plenty of comes from a mind set of trying to save the brothers who have been taking advantage of girl, defeat the dragon, or just sneak around the sun and have been getting out there and and cause problems for the person running the improving their aim with friends. And while game. you are improving your aim ask yourself how can I do better?

But either way it is a method of imagination that helps you become more creative in many When you are a gun owner you always treat a ways for your actual life as well. Take for exgun with respect and keep it clean and funcample in D&D we are required to hear the detioning even when you don’t plan on using it scriptions and then imagine what it looks like. for a period of time. This is like what we do in In lodge there are specific things that we say lodge. We may not be going into a chair for in our ritual that remind us of all the things we the year or be participating in a degree this experienced in our degrees. So, if we apply time. But the idea of having it ready to go in- this and do more things that use our imaginacase if someone would need you to help them tion, we can better visualize what is going on then you would be ready to step up and assist. in our degrees and it can mean a whole lot more.

Get up early and go for a walk or Golf. When you have that feeling of knowing that the rest So, brothers until next time try your best to of the world is still asleep and you are stand- stay out of the heat and enjoy the summer. If ing on the first tee of 18 holes and you can you do go out in the heat, try and remember to look over the grass and hear the sprinkler sys- have a lot of water with you. tem come to a close it is a sound and feeling that gives some people a great moment of Fraternally, clarity to the day. Like anything is possible.

Like I may get a hole in one this round or I fiJohn Woode nally am going to break even today. Where as 2020 Junior Warden in lodge we are going in and saying I wonder Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 what is going to be talked about today? How are the brothers doing? and so forth.

Dear Brothers,

Stay up late and try playing a new game or 17

Erected in the 1920s and 30s, it soars 333 feet as a beacon of Light and knowledge, educating and inspiring all who visit it. Recognized in 2015 as a National Historic Landmark, the Memorial is one of the most impressive and iconic buildings in the area around our nation’s capital. Our new fundraising endeavor, The Landmark Century Campaign, aims to support a thorough restoration of the Memorial.

And we can help!

Today, the Memorial is a museum like no other in the world. Everything we do revolves around our vision: “to inspire humanity through education to emulate and promote the virtues, character and vision of George Washington, the Man, the Mason, and Father of our Country.”

Open seven days a week, the Memorial offers

Masonic temple, housing two Craft lodges and regularly hosting visiting lodges from around the country. The Memorial is a central hub connecting Masons to one another, and connecting the Craft to the public, our nation, and our world For the past decade, the Memorial Association has devoted tremendous energy and resources to the renovation of the Memorial.

Major exhibits have been added. Interiors have been repaired and repainted. Lighting has been updated. But the most considerable work is the top-to-bottom restoration of the building itself—the first such renovation since the Memorial was completed nearly a century ago.

Beginning at the Memorial’s pyramid level, we have bedetailed exhibits and guided tours that teach the general gun a multi-year project to perform all needed structural repairs. Stone by stone, are repointing the mortar and public about George Washington, his life and virtues, protecting the building from water penetration. When and the role that Freemasonry played throughout his life. Further, the Memorial is an important space for the completed, the building will be in better than new performing arts, social gatherings, public events, and condition. educational seminars. And, of course, it is an active

Having a tree planted on the grounds of the George Washington Masonic National Memorial is an excellent way to honor an important individual in your life. And also a great way to express thanks to an organization, such as a Lodge or Chapter. For a donation of $750, the tree will be cared for in perpetuity, and a handsome stone marker placed near the tree will communicate your dedication.

The Society of Washington Lodges is for regular Lodges (recognized by the Grand Lodges of the United States) who are committed to supporting the Memorial.

There is a one-time donation of $2,500.00, which can be applied toward Patronage.

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WB Mike Smolenack Curtis Johnson WB John O’Hara PM WB Delbert Lewis PM WB Ray Osbourn PM WB Billy Bayless Family of Robert E. Turley WB Forest Hammer Family of Ken Holland

Baby Rylee Ringer Baby Miguel Martinez Baby Angeliya Celeste Holt MW Grand Master of Arizona First Responders The Armed Forces Our Veterans Our dearly departed Brethren Brethren Gila Valley Lodge No. 9

June Birthdays Wilbur Lawerence J.R. Henderson Delbert Lewis Roger Biede II Joe Puchacz

June Anniversaries Ryan Kann Sonny Bollig

6-3 6-9 6-9 6-19 6-27

July Anniversaries Boyd Johnson Richard Platt Richard Amma

July Birthdays Spencer Sego Nic Genchi James Heard M.E. Nelson

6-13-2009 6-20-1985

7-4 7-7 7-22 7-24 19

7-15-1983 7-23-1985 7-28-1992

June 1, Gila Valley Lodge No. 9

June 6, 2020 Gila Valley Poker Night

5:00 pm Dinner at Mount Athos 7:00 pm Stated Meeting 9:00 pm Post meeting discussion at Mount Athos

Bro Joe Guinn’s house 7:00 pm Charity Poker Night

June 4, Pinal Lodge No. 30 7:00 pm Stated Meeting

June 8, Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 7:00 pm Monday’s at the Lodge

June 9, Ocotillo Chapter No. 21 OES 7:00 pm Stated Meeting

June 27, 2020 Grand Communication Grand Lodge of Arizona El Zaribah Phoenix, Arizona

July 29, Castle Island Virtual Lodge No. 190 Email NLaine@civLodge190.ca for visitation permission

4:45 pm Stated Meeting

June 11, Apache Lodge No. 69 7:300 pm Stated Meeting

June 13, White Mountain No. 3 10:00 am Stated Meeting

June 13, Globe Chapter No. 7 R.A.M 2:00 pm Stated Meeting

June 18, Eloy Lodge No. 46 7:00 pm Stated Meeting

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WB Jim Baker is the current High Priest The “Capitular” or Chapter Degrees of Freemasonry refers the four degrees of the York Rite system that follow the “blue lodge” or “Craft” degrees. The Holy Royal Arch is the final degree and the culmination of the Chapter experience for a candidate. The Chapter is the second body of the York Rite of Freemasonry (following the Symbolic or 'Blue' Lodge), though in some Jurisdictions it is considered the completion of the initial three degrees and is part of the regular Craft experience. All Master Masons are eligible for membership. Contact WB Jim Baker, High Priest, or Paul Dore at pauldoresr@cox.net for more information

Do you have a son 12-21 years Old? Saguaro Order of the DeMolay is the premier youth leadership organization building young men of character and dedicated to making young men better people and leaders and sponsored by Gila Valley Lodge 9, Pinal Lodge No. 30, and Eloy Lodge No. 46 Meetings are held twice monthly on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month starting at 6:00 pm. All parents are welcome and are encouraged to attend and get involved in this great organization. They meet at Pinal Lodge #30 located at 1140 E. Florence Blvd., Casa Grande, Arizona 85122.

Great Men wear a Fez! We're counting on you… Who do you know that would make a good Mason and Shriner? A friend? A family member? A coworker? Commit to making a difference!

The future of our fraternity relies on your commitment.

CLICK HERE TO REFER A GOOD MAN The individual you refer will receive a series of communications, the first of which will identity you as the referral source.

The Scottish Rite is a Masonic organization that continues a Master Mason's education of the first three degrees. The Scottish Rite is one of several appendant groups of the worldwide fraternity known as Freemasonry. Each Valley has up to four Scottish Rite bodies, and each body confers a set of degrees. In the Southern Jurisdiction these are the Lodge of Perfection (4°-14°). Chapter Rose Croix (15°-18°), Council of Knights Kadosh (19°-30°), and the Consistory (31°-32°). The 33rd Degree is an honorary degree awarded for exceptional service. Have a question? Ask a Personal Rep! 21

Brethren, Friends, and Family, This year the Masonic Charities of Arizona approved 18 grants totaling $30,000 to organizations throughout Arizona. These 501c3 charitable organizations provide much needed services to their communities. Those services include assistance to our Veterans at the three VA Hospitals in Arizona, Domestic abuse shelters, child learning disabilities, training and assistance for people with special needs, support for soldiers abroad, Adult literacy programs and Personal hygiene kits for the working poor and homeless.

We are able to award these Grants from the income of our investment fund, Lodge and Personal donations and support from Grand Lodge. In order to keep up with the desire to expand our Grant distribution to more organizations and communities around the State we ask for your help.

We have registered with the Amazon Smile Foundation. Amazon Smile will donate 0.5% of the purchase price of eligible products to the charitable organization selected by their customers. For Amazon customers to select the Masonic Charities of Arizona to receive these donations go to http://smile.amazon.com/ch/942746389 to automatically select us. Or you can go to www.smile.amazon.com and you will be prompted to select a charity. Now you are ready to shop and support the Masonic Charities of Arizona.

The Board of Directors of the Masonic Charities of Arizona extends our appreciation to all of you for your support.

Fraternally, Roger Biede III Secretary, Masonic Charities of Arizona rcbthree@hotmail.com www.masoniccharitiesaz.com 22

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Anthony Raimondi Email: Raimondi_57@msn.com

Eric Smith Email: jiminys@yahoo.com

Email: jwoode591@gmail.com

MWGM Gregory A. Vasquez 2019-20 Grand Master F. & A.M of Arizona

Dewey Jefferson Email: djndjedderson48@yahoo.com

Chairman: WB Anthony Raimondi Email: Raimondi_57@msn.com

Lee Apger

Chairman: WB Daniel Genchi PM

Email: lkapger@gmail.com

Email: dmgenchi@gmail.com

Chairman: Eric Smith Email: jiminys@yahoo.com

Robert Holt

Chairman: WB Roger Biede III PM

Email: r.holt0129@gmail.com

Email: roger.biede@gmail.com

Chairman: Dewey Jefferson Email: djndjedderson48@yahoo.com

David Jones Email: dejones2063@gmail.com

Chairman: WB Roger Biede III PM Email: roger.biede@gmail.com

Chairman: Gale MacDougall HPM Email: bearinbox@con.net

Daniel Genchi PM Email: dmgenchi@gmail.com

Daniel Genchi PM Chairman Roger Biede III PM Ryan Kann PM

Gale MacDougal Email: bearinbox@con.net

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The first mention of Moon Lodges can be found in the Cooke Manuscript of 1410, one of the oldest documents belonging to the Masonic Craft. In the U.S., Moon Lodges were first noted in colonial times around 1717 to be operating in Philadelphia, Boston and Tennessee.

There appears to have been approximately 3000 moon lodges in the U.S. at the turn of the last century but by the 1950’s that number had decreased to 500. Today, by last count, there are roughly 129 moon lodges in the U.S. A moon lodge was born out of necessity due to the lack of natural or artificial illumination by which one could travel to and from meetings. During the 18th century, transportation was limited to horseback, horse & buggy, walking and even in some circumstances by boat. There were no paved roads and very few gravel but merely two dirt ruts that would meander through bush and fields rarely in a straight line.

With only a candle or coal oil lamp to light the way, a full moon provided welcome companionship for a long and lonely trek. Individuals would travel 8-10 miles or more and were unable to make the long trip home at night and would be supplied lodging by a fellow brother, leaving after breakfast to return home the next morning.

Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 continues to follow this tradition and is honored to be still one of the remaining “Moon Lodges” in the United States. Our Stated Meetings are the Monday On or Before the Full Moon of the Month, The Lodge also goes “Dark” during the summer months of July and August, where no Stated Meetings are held.

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