Printed Every Month 129th Anniversary
NOVEMBER 2019
Masters of all three Pinal Lodges gathered to raise Brother Joe Guinn to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. WB Anthony took the East and did a great job with the obligation! WB Adam took the role of Senior Deacon and moonlighted as Grand Marshall at the last moment. WB Bill was instrumental in keeping the Degree moving by being the most silent prompter ever! We thank all that participated and came to watch this very important step in Bro. Guinn’s journey in Freemasonry
1 Ticket $10 - https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr‌ 3 Ticket $20 - https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr‌ 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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Bro. John Anderson, Bro. Gale MacDougal along with the Florence Veterans Memorial committee are proud to announce that through months of hard work, planning and fund raising, the Veterans Memorial Park in Historic Florence Arizona will be dedicated on November 11, 2019 at 11 am! All Brothers are encouraged to attend this momentous occasion. Many hours of hard work were put in by Bro’s John and Gale along all who made it possible! Gila Valley is proud to have been a part of this great Memorial!
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 Medicine - Office supplies - Grooming tools 3
Brethren. Fall is finally here! We've made it through another scorching summer, football is in full swing, and we officially begin the holiday season! Fall has always been me favorite time of year. Growing up in Illinois, I loved watching the trees change colors which is something we don't see too much of our here. At least not without a good drive up north, but at least in lodge we have plenty of change to look forward to. Election time is here and we will see some new faces filling in officer chairs and with that hopefully plenty of new ideas and directions to take Gila Valley. As excited as I am to see how this year winds down, I'm looking forward to seeing what it holds for our fraternity. Planning for next year has already begun and we are working to make sure there will be many things for our brothers to take part in and look forward to. So stay tuned to your email, the lodge Facebook, this trestleboard or whatever your preferred method of staying updated with our upcoming events may be Fraternally,
Anthony Raimondi 2019 Master Gila Valley Lodge No. 9
Regularity is the process by which individual Grand Lodges recognize one another for the purposes of allowing formal interaction at the Grand Lodge level and visitation by members of other jurisdictions. The largest collection of mutually recognized Grand Lodges derives its regularity from the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) based on a set of specific criteria. Dating back to 1717, [the] UGLE is considered to be not only the oldest, but the largest grouping of lodges UGLE provides a list of recognized Grand Lodges on its website [as do many others]. What is a "Clandestine" Lodge? A "clandestine lodge" is one that does not hold a proper charter from any Grand Lodge. What is an "Irregular" Lodge? An "irregular lodge" is a lodge that does have a charter from a Grand Lodge, but its Grand Lodge is not recognized by other Grand Lodges.
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Companions, Globe Chapter No. 7 RAM had a good showing at the Four Corners Festival in Winslow this year. There were approximately 70 Companions and 5 candidates in attendance of which two of the candidates were from our Chapter. We congratulate and welcome Companions Lee Apger and Dewey Jefferson on their Masonic journey. Companions Dewey and Lee were immediately put to work in assisting us in opening the Chapter on October 12 as there were several officers unable to make the meeting. We thank Lee and Dewey for willingly offering to assist the Chapter. I hope all of us are studying the parts assigned for the Mark Master degree as we have a practice scheduled for November 9. Ritual proficiency is my goal for the year and it is most important when conferring the Mark Master on potential Companions. I would also stress the desire to be able to open Globe Chapter No. 7 Royal Arch Masons without the aid of ritual books. This will not happen overnight but remember that Time, Patience and Perseverance will accomplish all things.
Jim Baker, 2019 High Priest Globe Chapter No. 7 RAM
www.azmasoniclibrary.org
www.azmasoniclibrary.org 6
Gila Valley’s Jeep club took their first outing to Montana Mountain in the Superstition Mountains. The trip was lead by lead trailblazer Dewey Jefferson and a good time was had by all.
The George Washington Masonic National Memorial Association is proud to offer for the 2019 holiday season a beautiful gold and enamel plated ornament: The Working Tool—United in Brotherly Love.
This ornament unites several essential Masonic symbols that illustrate the crucial and divine lesson of brotherly love. The triangular frame, topped by the Masonic emblem over a sky blue circle, represents the Fraternity. The raised Trowel is every Master Mason’s primary tool: as the Trowel spreads the cement that unites the many different stones or bricks of a building into a single, strong whole, so Master Masons spread brotherly love to unites men throughout the world. Behind the Trowel shines the Blazing Star, an ancient Masonic symbol of Divine Providence, representing the divine nature of brotherhood. As President, Brother George Washington used an ivory-handled trowel to lay the cornerstone of the U.S. Capitol. Just as the trowel inspires Masons to use brotherly love to overcome their differences, the new American Republic united all the states under the motto E Pluribus Unum, “from many, one.” To order yours, please call 703-683-2007, ext. 2017, or visit our website at http://gifts.gwmemorial.org/cgi-bin/ webdata_gws.cgi?fid=1567624740&query=Category%2B1%3DHoliday%2BOrnaments%26pagenum%3D1% 26cgifunction%3DSearch&cgifunction=form
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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 November 2nd 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.
Yes, that is the scuttlebutt, there are enough Jeep owners at Gila Valley that initial talks are in the works to form a club and start exploring the trails. No word from the powers that be on whether those with 4X4’s not of the Jeep persuasion will be allowed to tag along. First planned trips will be occurring soon so reach out now. For information, Contact club President 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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Join Grand Master Greg & Lady Debbie Vasquez for a fun filled evening Saturday December 7th at the El Zaribah Shrine! The evening includes Dinner, Entertainment & Fun. Order you tickets here before they are gone! http://bit.ly/GLOAZChristmasParty There are a few hotels room still available for the special rate $99 a night which includes a free shuttle to the Shrine auditorium and breakfast. book yours now at: https://hiltongardeninn.hilton.com/en/gi/groups/personalized/P/PHXANGI-AML-20191207/index.jhtml? WT.mc_id=POG
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Now that the football season is in full swing and people are Next are the Senior Deacon, Junior Deacon, Senior Stewwatching their favorite teams let us look at how both football ard, Junior Steward, Marshall, and Tyler. These brothers are and lodge are similar. When I look at the lodge and football responsible for making things happen by carrying out the there are some key similarities. directions given from the Worshipful Master and Pillar Officers. They are your starters for your ofLet’s take the Worshipful master fense and defense they are the key indihe is who determines the direction viduals that the lodge felt would best be that the lodge goes in and oversees able to help make the lodge work. Then all things in the lodge. This I would finally are the rest of the brothers that are compare to the General manager of members and or visitors at the lodge. an NFL team. The direction of They all think with the same mind set and how things need to go whether it is have the same values in masonry and are new coaches, new players or a the next to be called upon to help fill in change in mindset. Next with the chairs and degrees if the main officers are Senior warden he is the second in not able. The rest of the lodge I would say command at lodge and I would is similar to being the rest of the team eacompare him to a Head coach who ger and willing to take on the responsibiliis responsible for carrying out all ties whenever they are called upon. I things that are being asked to have know it may be a bit of a long shot, but it happen at the lodge. And helps to was something that came to mind as we run or designate different commitare ending to another year and thinking tees. Junior Warden Third in command but also still I about what is to come in the near future. So, I hope that the would compare to a coaching designation such as an offennext time you visit lodge think of it as being your team in sive or defensive coordinator. The Junior Warden once football to where you are excited to go and are energetic and again like the Senior Warden takes on some of the responsiwanting to learn, see, and assist in any way you can to help bilities of either committees or other functions of the lodge. others on their masonic journey. Next, we have the Secretary and Treasurer for both they are Till next time Brothers, responsible for the operations of the lodge when it comes to communications and financials. So, with this I would make a John Woode comparison to them as being like the Physical trainers and 2019 Junior Deacon team doctors. They help to keep the Team healthy and inGila Valley Lodge No. 9 formed with what they can do to help them stay in the game.
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The following story was told by the late Jack McGinnis, Past Master and former Secretary of Minerva Lodge No.13 located in Barboursville, West Virginia. Jack related this story during a visit to Western Star Lodge #11 in early 1995. Some of the details of this account have been historically verified, while some cannot. Jack’s intent was to demonstrate the historically strong bond between the two Lodges. To this day, they still refer to each other as “sister” lodges. This is a story which demonstrates (then and now) the bond of brotherhood and friendship which defines Freemasonry. Likely, to quell Confederate sympathies in the area; the 9th West Virginia Infantry Regiment established a Union recruiting office and training camp at Guyandotte, West Virginia in October of 1861. The Union recruiting office was in a building on Main Street across from the existing V.F.W. building. On November 10, 1861 a combined force of Confederate Cavalry and local confederate militia (called Border Rangers) led by Col. John Clarkson and Cabell County native Col Albert Jenkins, surrounded the town of Guyandotte and attacked this camp. During the battle, 10 Union and 3 Confederate soldiers were killed. A total of 98 Union troops and Civilian Union collaborators were arrested and eventually marched to imprisonment in Richmond, Virginia.
fashion. The body was then transported on a river barge, down the Guyandotte River to Western Star Lodge, which at that time, was located near Water Street and 6th Avenue along the Guyandotte River. Freemasons from Minerva Lodge as well as both Confederate forces and Union prisoners, and a few citizens of Guyandotte entered the building where they conducted “a lodge of sorrow” led by the Worshipful Master of Minerva Lodge. The Masonic record is not clear, so while it is not known for certain, it is believed the assembly then proceeded to the most likely place of internment, the cemetery located
Brothers, I want to discuss the importance of bringing new Brothers into the Fraternity, and the actual significance of mentoring the new Brothers I have seen Brothers come through the door in flocks, only to be paired off with a single Brother, taught the words, and raised. When a Brother enters the lodge, he may be given an instructor or "mentor," but it is still each and every member of a Lodge's responsibility to help that Brother become a successful Mason. If you see a new Brother come through the door, look for a passion within him, something that can be cultivated to help our Fraternity progress in some way. Inspire interest and passion within the Brother, do not demand it of him. You can only lead a horse to water. It is up to us to inspire the horse to drink by kind fellowship, and by example. Raise your Brothers knowing that the future of your lodge will be carried upon their backs. It is up to us to help shape each Brother into a Mason worth the name of our ancient Order.
One of those who died in the battle was identified as a Mason. The members of Western Star Lodge (then chartered by the Common Wealth of Virginia Grand Lodge as Western Star Lodge #110) had much influence in the community and decided to perform Masonic Rites. However, the Worshipful Master of the Lodge, Henry Carter, was away in service due to the war. The Master of Minerva Lodge No. 57, in Barboursville, West Virginia, agreed to conduct the services.
just a block and a half away, on 5th Avenue between Water Street and Main Street in Guyandotte. There the assembly conducted grave side rites and retired. There are 31 markers in the cemetery most of which are weathered and worn to the point of being illegible. It is also likely that several graves lay unmarked, the stones having been broken, removed or buried in the more than 150 years since. No map of the cemetery exists therefore it is impossible to say where this Masonic Brother is buried.
The brother’s body was taken to a funeral home On the following day, most of the Confederate forces (led in Barboursville where it was quickly prepared in the usual by Col Jenkins) (cont) 11
left Guyandotte with prisoners in tow, inroute to Richmond, Virginia. Some of the 130-150 Union soldiers and recruits managed to escape the initial attack and made their way to a Union encampment at town of Ceredo, down the Ohio River Just West of Guyandotte.
they were able to locate the jewels, Charter and, Minutes restoring them to Western Star Lodge.
The identity of the farmer and location of his farm have been lost to the fog of history. What is known today is that the story has been repeated many times down through the Having been advised of what was described to them as a years. The Lodge Jewels, original Virginia Charter and th “massacre”, Members of the 5 West Virginia Infantry Regi- minutes were kept in the loft of a barn for several years durment marched from Ceredo toward Guyandotte. ing and after the war. Although “outside” the barn protectA large number of Union troops boarded a steamer, which ed these items from the elements and allowed them to be travelled up the Ohio River to the mouth of the Guyandotte preserved until they were finally recovered. River, where they fired their rifles and a small deck gun at Although the Lodge is now chartered by the Grand Lodge Confederate forces. However, realizing they did not have of West Virginia as “Western Star Lodge No.11, the recovthe strength of numbers, these troops withdrew and crossed ery of Its original Virginia Charter, jewels and minutes obvito the Ohio side of the Ohio River, where they assembled ously meant a great deal to the grateful brothers of this additional reinforcements from a local Ohio militia. These Lodge. To this day, those jewels, the original Virginia Charsoldiers and militia, together with the main body of troops ter and the advancing from Ceredo attacked and entered Guyandotte, recovered driving out the remaining Confederate forces. Minute Almost immediately, the Union troops began to set fire to book are the town. Virtually the entire business district of downtown safely and most of the homes on the Western side of Guyandotte housed inside a were set ablaze and burned to the ground. A few homes were spared and still stand today. The Masonic Temple of glass case Western Star Lodge was also set ablaze. One of the Union where they Soldiers was himself a freemason. This soldier rushed into are displayed just the masonic temple while his companions were moving outside the about setting the building afire. This soldier, being a Malodge room within the present Masonic Temple now locatson, knew the importance of certain items and could remove the Jewels, Virginia Charter and a minute’s book be- ed at 222 Richmond Street in Guyandotte, West Virginia. fore the building was consumed.
At the conclusion of dinner on “Past Master’s Night”, the Although this soldier’s identity is unknown, it is known that Lodge proudly points out the saved Jewels Charter and Minutes to visitors. The members of Western Star No.11 he found a local farmer to whom he entrusted these precious items. Some years after the war, this masonic soldier then recount the story of how they were saved and use the returned to Guyandotte and sought out members of West- occasion to impress on their visitors the strong bond that exists in Freemasonry. ern Star Lodge which now held its meetings in a room above a drug store in Guyandotte. This soldier did not re- Charles E. Kingery call the name of the farmer or know where he lived, but was Master able to describe him to the assembled members. Piecing Western Star Lodge No. 11 together his identity they proceeded towards the Lesage ar- April 5, 2017 ea which is on the Ohio River North of Guyandotte, where
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The following has been taken from a paper produced by Quatuor Coronati Lodge, London, England with Additions by V.W. Bro. Barry D. Thom, Lodge McLeod #27, GL of NL (July 2017) Masonry, a beautiful system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. Allegory - a story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.
many of them. It was felt that they were unnecessary or that their significance was not fully understood. Included among these are: * the All-Seeing Eye - it represents the eye of God watching over humanity * the Beehive - represents, industry and cooperation, * the Book of Constitution guarded by the Tyler's Sword - represents, silence
Symbol - a thing that represents or stands for something else. * the Broken Column - represents, untimely death i.e.'the limousine was another symbol of his wealth and authori* chalk, charcoal and clay - represents, freedom, fervency and ty' zeal Masonic symbolism is a subject that should be approached with caution, especially by new Brethren. Unfortunately, it has * high hills and low vales - represents, the requirement of secrecy been a happy hunting ground for mystics, imaginative writers and cranks of all kinds. In fact, more nonsense has been written * the key - represents, the tongue, meaning discretion in speech about symbolism than on any other branch of Freemasonry. * The hour-glass - represents, life and time Symbolism is not an exact science but it is largely guesswork * a lion's paw - represents, strength and personal opinion, often without sufficient basis. Many Ma* a pot of incense - represents, a pure heart sonic writers regard themselves as authorities on symbolism, usually without any qualification, except membership of the * a trowel - to spread the cement of Brotherly Love Craft. * a broached ornel - possibly the predecessor of the perfect ashBrother Harry Carr considers that every man is fully entitled to lar work out his own symbolism. We have to regard the whole of * the bone box - represents, the mouth, teeth, and tongue our ritual as it stands today. We cannot separate the 17th century words and practices from those of the 18th or 19th century, * a pyramid - represents, immortality when they stand in our ritual side by side. There is no yardstick * clasped hands - represents, fidelity and trust by which we can measure what is right and wrong in the interThe purpose of Masonic symbols was, and essentially is, to pretation of symbols. Bro. Carr warns us against aberrations in teach simple and pure truths. It would be well to listen to the symbolism, extremes of which have no justification in the symadvice of Bro. Harry Carr who wrote, "To find your own interbol itself and which only mislead the reader. Real damage is pretation of our symbols is the very best kind of Masonic exerdone by those symbolists who need the dimensions of the pyracise. The only danger is that it may lead you too far from the mids, the mysteries of the heavenly bodies, the Tarot Cards, the simple explanations that were intended. Many of us have seen Zodiac and equally complex paths towards truth. extraordinary and far-fetched examples that have no relationMy comments: Symbols did not appear in Masonry until ship to Freemasonry, and which could never have been in the around 1750. When the two rival Grand Lodges came together minds of those who compiled or approved the actual words and they were so numerous that our Brethren decided to drop procedures that are in use today".
The
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Most people want to be a part of something, whether that is being charitable. The charity we ride for is the Hope a band, a racing club, a car club, a motorcycle club, or even Women’s Center in Florence, AZ. We raise funds through a Mason. There are many various rides around the State. groups that people belong to, I started my “career” of being a and they all have different reapart of a group that gives by joinsons for being a part of that ing the US Navy Reserves and organization or group. retired after 24 years. This was People group together due to my 1st job that gave to others. similar interests in something. We were all willing to fight and Most want to feel like they are die for our country and her peoneeded or appreciated. That ple. appreciation could be as little Once I retired I did not have that as just being accepted into the feeling of camaraderie I had group. Others want to hear while in the Navy and that was they are appreciated. And yet one of the reasons I became a some want nothing to do with a Mason. I also knew I would not group or organization. be happy if I was not involved in I am one that likes being a part something that gave back to the of something. What draws me community like I felt the Navy are the groups that help others, did. Yes I was, and still am, a for instance the American Lemember of the American Legion gion Riders. The ALR was setup by veterans who ride mo- and a rider with them, but I wanted more. Masonry has torcycles to ride and raise money for multiple charities that given me that missing piece. help veterans and their families. My ALR raises money for Whether you are a part of something charitable or just a the Fisher House in Tucson, AZ. The Fisher House progroup that meets for coffee, being a part of something has vides a place to stay for free and food for the families of meaning for everyone. It may not mean the same for everywounded service members who are in the hospital. The one, but for everyone involved it has meaning. Fisher house operates solely on donations and has no other funding. We ride every year to the Fisher House TucFraternally, son via Las Cruces, NM and Tombstone, AZ to deliver the check for the money we raised throughout the year. Eric Smith 2019 Senior Warden Gila Valley Lodge No. 9
I also ride with the Widows Son’s in Pinal County. This is a fairly new Masonic Riders Association which also is about
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The week of November 18 through 22, 2019 will be upon evolved and grown through the years to be observed the us soon and we as Masons should be aware of the signifiweek prior to Thanksgiving each year. cance of this week in American history. In 1919 immediately following WWI the National Education Association and The Masonic significance of this week is in the access of information and availability and opportunity for all people to further their education and explore new ideas and share those ideas with others without fear of retribution from the authorities in power. I believe this desire to explore and share ideas was one of the leading factors of the formation of Modern Freemasonry 300 years ago. One of our responsibilities as Masons is to devote a portion of each day to exercise the heart, mind and body. When these vital parts of Man are left idle, we decay and eventually die. Brothers, let us strive to keep active and improve ourselves through education both as students and teachers.
the newly formed American Legion combined efforts to address a pressing need that was revealed during the buildup of troops for combat in WWI. Twenty five percent of the draftees were illiterate and seven percent unfit for I hope all our Lodges will observe the spirit of MWGM service. This presented a serious problem training the draft- Greg Vasquez’s Edict No. 2019-03 by supporting and recees for service in a very short amount of time. ognizing our Local Public Schools and the invaluable service they provide to the students in our communities. Both the American Legion and the National Education Association during their National Conventions in 1919 passed Jim Baker resolutions to address the need for educational awareness 2019 Junior Grand Warden and opportunities for all. The first American Education Grand Lodge of Arizona Week observance was held in December of 1920 and has
From left to right it is Bro Paul Spaven, W.Bro Phil Fogg, W. Bro Daniel Healey, Bro Justin Halstead and myself, WBro Steven Greenhalgh and we are all members of Rockhaven and Horwich Lodge No. 2324 in the Province of West Lancashire in the Grand Lodge of England.
Nick, Dave, Randy and Anthony went for some Monty Pyston
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What is a Symbol? A symbol is some object, design, device, etc., which signifies or suggests some truth, idea, cause, ideal, etc.; what it is in itself is unimportant, because it is not used to call attention to itself but to call attention to that for which it stands; its sole function is thus to call the attention of a man to its meaning because it itself has nothing to say or to teach; and it is used where it is needed or desired that men shall keep certain truths, doctrines, etc., before them at a certain time. Although the two belong to the same general category "of things that point, or signify, or denote," a symbol differs in essence from an emblem. The latter is itself the thing it stands for, but is only one form or instance of it. A sword is war, because it is a weapon; as an emblem it stands for each and every other weapon, and hence denotes war; a bee-hive is an emblem because it is itself an instance of the power of industriousness. An allegory is a truth, doctrine, idea, ideal, ete., which is told in the form of a story; the story may be oral or may be written down, or it may be enacted like a play the allegories of the Building of the Temple and of the Search for That Which Was Lost are enacted. A rite is an end in itself, does not point to something outside itself, but is enacted for its own sake, and delivers its meaning in the process of enactment. Symbols, emblems, allegories, and rites are as universal as language -no people or period of history has yet been discovered without them; Freemasonry is not peculiar because it uses them, but it is one of the few societies in the modern world which has a teaching for its members and which delivers that teach-
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What Do We Ask Ourselves “Masonry
is a life-long journey”, “You get out of it what you put into it”, “Making Good Men Better”;
at the end of my initiation one of my fellow brothers at the end of the ceremony as we were proceeding to close, arising to impart upon me this bit of wisdom – Masonry is a life long journey, this is the first step of [hopefully] many in a long and productive Masonic career. The irony here is that within a few short years, this brother himself would cease to be an active member in my lodge.
been especially peculiar to me. I cannot say that the time I have put into Masonry has always felt as if this statement were true. In many times, it felt like I was putting way more into Masonry than what I was getting back. Countless hours spent memorizing ritual which was demonstrated in lodge in less than 20 minutes. Countless nights spent awake dreaming and planning on all the things that could be done to make my Lodge better. Endless conversations, debates, and disagreements regarding how best to move the craft and the Lodge forward. All of this seemed at times to be much more effort than reward.
I remember thinking at the time – what does it mean “life-long journey”. I had an idea myself of what that meant, but were he and I thinking the same thing? As my time within Masonry continued, as I became involved, then less involved, and involved again in the workings of my Lodge – this concept of “life-long journey” has always stuck with me.
At other times, it seemed as if the benefits in being a Mason far outweighed the effort, I believed I was putting into the Craft. The moments when I realized how it was that I was able to effortlessly apply the lessons of my degrees; the self-reflection and selfanalysis which followed me on a daily basis; the (cont)
We have all heard these phrases. They are espoused from the beginning of our Masonic journey. From the time we are first introduced to the lodge, after we receive our initiation degree, and following our raising – we have all heard these nuggets of wisdom passed on from one generation of new Mason to the next. These phrases are so commonly spoken that it has become such a synonymous concept to make it indistinguishable from Masonic ritual itself. So then, what does it mean? Why do we say these things, and how can we hold up our end of the bargain? Let’s take them on one at a time.
“Masonry is a life-long journey” – I remember vividly
“You get what you put into it” – this one has always
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What Do We Ask Ourselves connection to brothers who remained a part of my life even when I was away from lodge; the feeling of brotherhood when visiting outside lodges; and the instant camaraderie which existed between me and others who I was able to recognize as a brother is like any other experience I have ever had.
“Making Good Men Better” – I have always had a particular battle with this phrase; simply for the struggle I have had in the past with answering the question “How?”. In the many years of being a Mason, it has been clear to me that this is a central component to what we as Masons profess to do. It is the central theme of Masonry – we make good men better men. What seldom do a great job of, is clarifying the “how” in that process. For years, I attended lodge meetings, mine and other Lodges’, I participated in education summits, Grand Lodge events, Degree Conferrals, education nights, research lodges, and all sorts of other Masonic gatherings and events. What I often asked brothers was “how” do we make good men better? This question always seemed to cause a pause by those being asked, even if for just a moment. Often the answers which would follow would be some variation of the previously mentioned phrases – “It’s a life-long journey” or “You get what you put into it” – these never really satisfied me as an acceptable answer. So, then what doe these sayings mean to me? This is the crux of what I have been considering more and more often. Here is my current response: Masonry is a life-long journey because it began long before we approached the doors of the Lodge and it continues well beyond the moment, we part from it. Whether we are actively attending Lodge or not the journey is not limited to these actions. Being a Mason is a state of being. It is a way of life which each of us, if duly and truly prepared, have had innately emblazed upon our character. Masonry is the way we think, the way we act, and the way we treat ourselves and one another. It is not what we are, but who we are – this is something that at our core cannot be changed or
shook. The lodge is merely the vehicle to make these ideas better, stronger, and more fervent. This leads to the second phrase: “You get out of it what you put into it”. Masonry is not about what’s in it for me. This attitude of “me” is only applicable from the perspective that we are dedicated to the improvement of ourselves so that we may become a benefit to the world. We are stones, fitting in to the much larger building. Our intention is not to re-coup our efforts, it is to do the work so that others benefit from our example. This means that sometimes, we see the results of our efforts and we can enjoy them. Other times, it means that we operate in faith that the efforts we put in, when done with good intentions, will have a lasting benefit which will continue beyond our own journey. We lay the foundation stones, so that other builders may add upon it. It is this concept which unites us as Masons, it is the purpose for which we operate. Masonry provides a construct, a vehicle, a tool (s) to advance our own mental capacities, expand our intellect, and to embrace our spirituality in a way which makes the world a better place now and in the future. It is the process of never-ending self-development, the constant practice of humility and prudence which makes a Mason a better man. It is this dedication for nobler deeds and higher thoughts which takes a good man and makes him better. It is this pursuit which allows Masonry to endure through the ages.
“How does Masonry make good men better?” By expanding on what is already innately true to us as members. Our degrees teach us that we are a continuing design, that our trestle board directs us on how to erect our spiritual selves – and that by due attention to the tools at our disposal we can shape ourselves and our world as a more perfect thing. As long as we don’t lose sight of this – Masonry will continue to satisfy itself that this concept stays true.
Daniel Genchi Past Master 2011-12 Gila Valley Lodge No. 9
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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 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
"We just don't recognize the most significant moments of our lives while they're happening. Back then I thought, 'Well, there'll be other days.' I didn't realize that that was the only day." -- Archibald "Moonlight" Graham
November Birthdays
November Anniversaries
Jacob Roberts Robert Amma Boyd Johnson Roger Biede III Chip Frizzell Jim Baker Dewey Jefferson Tom Williams Joe Guinn
Gale McDougal John O’Hara Jim Reid Wade Bell Michael Henry Jacob Roberts Dewey Jefferson
11-4 11-4 11-11 11-12 11-12 11-17 11-20 11-22 11-29
11-8-1985 11-12-1969 11-16-1999 11-22-1997 11-22-1997 11-22-1997 11-28-2016
December Birthdays
December Anniversaries
John Lane Daniel Gentry Mark Nielsen
Ron Miller Delbert Lewis Fred Aipperspach
12-8 12-16 12-28 20
12-4-1989 12-13-1948 12-14-2009
Masonry is all about the continuous improvement of oneself, as the idea of perfection without improvement is reserved for a supreme being. Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, is often quoted as saying
TEMPERANCE
One of the four cardinal virtues; the practice of which is inculcated in the First Degree. The Freemason who properly appreciates the secrets which he has solemnly promised never to reveal, will not, by yielding to the unrestrained call of appetite, permit reason and judgment to lose their seats and subject himself, by the indulgence in habits of excess, to discover that which should be concealed, and thus merit and receive the scorn and detestation of his Brethren. And lest any Brother should forget the danger to which he is exposed in the unguarded hours of dissipation, the virtue of temperance is wisely impressed upon is memory, lay its reference to one of the most solemn portions of the ceremony of initiation. Some Freemasons, very properly condemning the vice of intemperance and abhorring its effects, have been unwisely led to confound temperance with total abstinence in a Masonic application, and resolutions have someI have wondered if this quote might have first been spoken times been proposed in Grand Lodges which declare the by a Master to his Lodge or perhaps even by a Grand Lecuse of stimulating liquors in any quantity a Masonic offense. turer to the Brethren as part of their education program – Put the law of Freemasonry authorizes no such regulation. only later to be famously written down by Mark Twain. It leaves to every man the indulgence of his own tastes withWhat is known is that Samuel Clemens was in fact a Main due limits, and demands not abstinence, but only moderson. He presented his petition to Polar Star Lodge No. 79 of ation and temperance, in anything not actually wrongs. ~ Saint Louis on December 26, 1860 and was raised the folMackey lowing year. Could he have heard this quote in his Lodge? The Secretary’s minutes may never tell the tale! “Continuous improvement is better than delayed perfection”.
At the beginning of this Masonic year, the Deputy Grand Master challenged the Grand Line to write down a wish list of goals that each officer would like to accomplish during his time in the line, ending potentially with his year as Grand Master. Each officer, when first appointed has about 7 years before he is Grand Master if all holds to form.
I hope that every Arizona Mason realizes that we are in this together, working to make this thing called Arizona Masonry better for future generations and future masons. If you have a question, concern, suggestion or compliment and you see a Grand Lodge officer, speak up! We are here to serve the craft for the betterment of the craft as a whole!
As Long-Range Planning is a large part of any successful company; for an organization such as ours, it is even more important. Let me say that putting to paper a list of tangible goals for a Fraternal organization that has been in Arizona 137 years and worldwide for at least 302 years is quite a daunting task.
We are all a part of something special, lets continue to treat it so and work together to help it grow into the future. And remember, “Continuous improvement is better than delayed perfection”.
The point that RW Robertson was making could indeed be Fraternally, summed up with this quote. The Grand Lodge, like the craft, must continually strive for improvement in order to Roger Biede remain relevant in an ever changing society. While the ritu2019 Junior Grand Steward al and the landmarks, for the most part remain the same, Grand Lodge of Arizona F. & A.M. there are always changes we can make to improve Grand Lodge and better serve the craft as a whole. 21
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 Memor i a l o f f e r s detailed exhibits and guided tours that teach the general public about George Washington, his life and virtues, and the role that Freemasonry played throughout his life. Further, the Memorial is an important space for the performing arts, social gatherings, public events, and 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.
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 F o r t h e p a s t d e c a d e , t h e 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 begun a multi-year project to perform all needed structural repairs. Stone by stone, are repointing the mortar and protecting the building from water penetration. When completed, the building will be in bet-
ter than new condition.
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. 22
The Ancient Egyptian Order of Sciots is a little-known fraternity comprised entirely of Master Masons in good standing, similar to the Grotto and the Tall Cedars of Lebanon. It has local units called "pyramids" in California, New Jersey and Illinois. The Order was established first in 1905, when a number of Masons met in the Mission Masonic Temple, in the City of San Francisco, for the purpose of forming a social club, where Masons could get together on an equal footing, free from the restraint of the lodge room, yet organized for the purpose of furthering Masonic teachings and applying, in a practical way, in everyday business affairs, the teachings of the Fraternity. The idea was an instant success. It was recognized that such an organization filled a long-felt want because it brought the Brethren into close contact in their daily lives; fostering the true spirit of fraternity; caused men to forget their worries, troubles, and cares of life; made them look upon the brighter side of things; and gave them new hope and joy. Their slogan was: BOOST ONE ANOTHER!
Arizonians' Answer to the Query: "What's the matter with Kibbey?" THE SAY HE'S ALL RIGHT! On February 10th, 1905 President Roosevelt sent to the senate the name of Joseph H. Kibbey, attorney general of Arizona. News of the appointment was received in Phoenix and throughout the Territory, A high honor which was not only unsolicited, but for a time refused! Judge Kibbey had recently formed the law firm of Kibbey, Bennett, & Bennett and was worried that being Governor of the Territory would take away from his time there. Governor Kibbey was a very active Mason, being a Charter member and serving as the Fourth Master of Gila Valley No. 9 Lodge in 1893.
In 1910, the group decided upon a name, adopting the Ancient Egyptian Order of Sciots, established a ritual, and designated their headgear to be the fez, similar to the Shrine and the Grotto. The Order's ritual is based upon events that supposedly occurred on the "Isle of Scio," near present-day Syria in 1124 BC. The brotherly love and support that the Sciots rendered to one another is said to have impressed the Pharaoh of Egypt so much that he invited the Sciots to his royal palace "for feasting and merry-making every third moon." To commemorate this, the order offers one degree designated as the "League of Neighbors." Candidates for membership in the Order also promise to attend their Blue Lodge once a month. The Order is comprised of a few local units (approximately twenty "pyramids"), each ruled by a "Toparch." The governing body is called the "Supreme Pyramid" headed by a "Pharaoh" and meets semi-annually. Presently, the Order has approximately 1,800 members. The primary charity of the Order is to raise funds for disadvantaged children.
William Edward Ferguson moved to Holbrook, Arizona in 1917 to practice law. During his career he served as Navajo County Superior Court judge from 1942 to 1945 and the local attorney for the Santa Fe railroad for many years. Running for Congress he famously said "I am not a politician, but my love experience in the practice of law has given me a clear insight into the making and successful operation of laws designed to govern our people". Ferguson had five children, which may have been a material asset in the field of about 10 candidates, provided course, that the younger Fergusons had reached voting age! He served as patron of the Eastern Star for five terms and Master of Chalcedony Lodge #6 in 1929.
Do you have some Arizona Lodge Masonic Trivia? Please send to us so that we can include it in a future edition! 23
Dr. Vaughn S. Mcguire was a dentist in Flagstaff, Arizona for many years. He and three other men organized the Flagstaff Country Club. Later he moved to Phoenix where he started the South Mountain Speedway and is credited with initiating the Bobby Ball Memorial 200 mile auto race. Ball was a driver in the Arizona Roadster Association, subsequently switching from roadsters to midgets. He won the Arizona State Midget Association (ASMA) championship in 1949 and 1950. He finished fifth in the 1951 Indianapolis 500 and 32nd in the 1952 Indianapolis 500. Ball won the AAA Championship race at San Jose in November 1952. On January 4, 1953, he was involved in an accident at Carrell Speedway in Los Angeles which left him with terrible head injuries. He remained in a coma, first at the UCLA Medical Center and then at home in Phoenix, but died 14 months later of an infection. For many years one of the two championship races held at Phoenix International Raceway was a memorial race dedicated to Ball. A huge promoter of Auto Racing, Vaughn Mcguire promoted the Old South Mountain Speedway and Manzanita Speedway, and even organized a match in 1949 at the Arizona State Fair Grounds between Bill Holland in a big car and Bobby Ball in a Midget. Holland ended up winning 2 of 3 races. He was a member of the Kiwanis and a Hiram Club, also serving as Master of Flagstaff Masonic Lodge #7 in 1929. On February 10, 1925 the Tucson Scottish Rite, through the Scottish Rite club of the Salt River Valley, presented a regulation army sized silk American Flag to the Mesa High School. The flag was presented by Judge Thomas Armstrong, The flag was accepted by Herman Hendrx, principal of the school. The entire school assembled to witness the festivities. A number of prominent Scottish Rite Masons of Tucson were present for the occasion including PGM's Harry Drachman and George Roskruge. For several years it was the custom of the Scottish Rite bodies of Arizona to present a flag each year to one or two schools of the state, both elementary and high schools. In 1924, when the Grand Communication of the Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons in Arizona was held in Globe, Arizona, schools in that community were presented flags.
In 1893 Judge Fletcher Doan moved to Arizola, Arizona. In 1895 he was elected district attorney of Pinal County. Before he could take office a messenger was dispatched to his ranch to notify him to come to Florence, Arizona and take the place of a district attorney who had disappeared to Mexico. He departed Arizola at 4 o'clock on a Monday morning and never returned to spend another night at his ranch. After serving as district attorney, Mr. Doan was appointed district Judge which he held from 1897 to February 12, 1912 when he moved to Douglas, Arizona to practice law with this son, Frank. During his time in Florence, he was very active in Masonry and kept Gila Valley No. 9 F & AM Masonic Lodge alive during some lean years. He served as Master of the Lodge in 1899, 1900, 1902, 1903, and 1905
Do you have some Arizona Lodge Masonic Trivia? Please send to us so that we can include it in a future edition! 24
On Saturday, October 12, 1940 death intervened in Tom Mix's life on a lonely stretch of US 79, between Florence and Oracle Junction. He was headed for Phoenix by way of Town of Florence when the accident occurred. In Florence he had planned to visit an old Rodeo friend of his, Harry Knight. Knight was married to Mix's oldest daughter. He was alone in his custom build Cord roadster when he came across workers doing construction. The automobile plunged across the wash and rolled over, killing him instantly. The Pinal County Historical Society erected a seven-foot monument of a riderless horse in December of 1947 to mark the spot where Tom Mix and his fatal automobile accident. The site is some ten miles south of Florence. Pinal County Historical Society President A.W. Gressinger, wrote the inscription on the monument. The inscription reads as follows; January 6, 1880-October 12, 1940 In Memory of Tom Mix Whose spirit left his body on this spot And whose characterizations and portrayals In life served to better fix memories of The old west in the minds of living men. The Pinal County Historical Society dedicated a replica monument in the yard of the Pinal County Museum in 1994. Throughout his acting career, Tom Mix was also a devoted Mason. He was raised on February 21, 1925, at Utopia Lodge No. 537, in Los Angeles California. He joined both the Scottish Rite and The Royal Arch, and participated in the famed 233 club and was a visitor to Gila Valley No. 9 F & AM Masonic Lodge. Alfred William “Al� Gressinger, the man that wrote the poem was the Sixty-Fourth Master of Gila Valley No. 9 F & AM Masonic Lodge. He was a Pinal County Historian and Author Wrote many books on Florence and Pinal County.
In 1910 Agents arrested one William T. Wintemute, a promoter, on the basis of Fraud upon statements made by him in a prospectus concerning the gold Run and Tunnel Company. The statements made were deemed gross exaggerations, misleading, and therefore schemes to defraud in the promotion of the Collins Wireless Telephone company and its successor, the Continental Wireless Telephone and Telegraph company. The literature of both frequently used portraits of Hon. William Jennings Bryan of Lincoln, Neb and Hon. Morris Goldwater, Mayor of Prescott, Az, both well known and well respected men of the time in their ads. Upon being contacted regarding his likeness being used, Goldwater replied that he had been invited to visit an exhibit featuring the products, took pictures and was asked to buy stock, to which he declined. He confirmed that he did not give permission nor endorsed the product. William Jennings Bryan was a American politician. During his time at Illinois College, Bryan was a member of Acacia Fraternity, a Masonic affiliated fraternity. In 1896, Bryan started his first of three attempts to become President of the United States. From 1913 to 1915 Bryan would serve as Secretary of State for Woodrow Wilson. Bryan was a member of Lincoln Lodge No. 19, Lincoln, Nebraska. Morris Goldwater is the uncle of Barry Goldwater, a Past Master of Aztlan Lodge #1 and the 1888 Grand Master of Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons in Arizona
Do you have some Arizona Lodge Masonic Trivia? Please send to us so that we can include it in a future edition! 25
The Roll of Founder Members of the River Valley Road P.O.W. Masonic Club is dated 10th July 1942. It lists 25 In the Museum at Freemasons' Hall, Edinburgh. there is a Brethren. Six of the Scottish Constitution, five Australian, remarkable document, being a Roll of Founder Members of one Irish and Thirteen English. Each of the Brethren was the River Valley P.O.W. Masonic Club. The Roll is remark- given his own personal copy of the Roll, all twenty five of able for several reasons but in order to set it in context some which had been prepared by Brother C. D. Pickersgill. brief historical notes are perhaps appropriate. The decision to prepare such a Roll [let alone twenty five War in Europe was declared on 3rd September 1939. Brit- copies] is remarkable because the Japanese had accepted, ish military activity initially therefore was concentrated there, totally, Nazi propaganda against Freemasonry. The Brethin the Middle East and North Africa. When the Japanese Air ren's names, Mother Lodge, Masonic Rank and even signaForce attacked Pearl Harbour in the Hawaiian Islands on 8th tures are recorded. Had any of the twenty five copies been December 1941, the Second World War had been underdiscovered by the Japanese all twenty five almost certainly way for over two years. This attack on Pearl Harbour is often would have been executed. thought to be the first aggressive act by the Japanese armed forces but in fact one hour before, a force of 5,500 Japanese Of the original twenty five copies of the Roll, two are known to still exist. One is in the Museum of Freemasons' Hall, Edsoldiers had landed at Kota Bharu, Malaya. inburgh, and the other is in the possession of a surviving Their intention was to capture Malay in 100 days. This aim Brother. A third copy is thought to possibly be in the (cont) was achieved in 70 days. On 10th December 1941, the British Battleships `Repulse' and 'Prince of Wales', flying the flag of Admiral Phillips, were sunk attempting to stem the Japanese landings. With little air support and no tanks the Empire forces were pushed south by elite Japanese troops who had been specially trained for jungle warfare. The Empire troops fell back to Singapore Island and on 8th February 1942 the Japanese invaded the island. General Percival commanding the Empire forces surrendered on 15th February 1942. That surrender was, in part, forced on him because water supplies had been cut. More than 95,000 military personnel became Prisoners of War. (Before, During and after)
Civilians were incarcerated in the infamous Changi Gaol and military personnel in the sprawling prison camp which surrounded it. Much has been written regarding the experiences of Freemasons in this camp details of which I need not here repeat. As Brother Hewitt stated in 1967. "River Valley Road P.O.W. Masonic Club is another small body about which little is known". In time the Japanese military forces began to organise P.O.W.'s into camps outside Changi Gaol and Camp. Most were loosely selected on the basis of their local knowledge, occupation or fitness. River Valley Road P.O.W. Camp was to the west of Singapore City. Generally small groups of prisoners [50-75] were initially selected to work from such camps. Most were put to work repairing bomb damage etc. in the docks area. After several weeks some prisoners were diverted to tasks more suited to their occupations such as making louvre windows for P.O.W. camp huts etc..
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Singapore Masonic Museum. The fact that any have survived cigarettes when an Australian Padre arrived and seeing that he was using pages from the V.S.L. to make the cigarettes he is all the more remarkable as each were hand drawn [and told him that this was alright as long as the pages were not colored] on delicate rice paper. used for 'anything else'. The activities of the Brethren in the camp were limited. The only time that they were allowed to themselves was on Thurs- During the frequent forced marches of one group of P.O.W.'s 'leap-frogging' each other, many day afternoons when all prisoners were P.O.W.'s recall that even in these dire cirallowed to 'debug' their clothing and bedcumstances a Scot had managed to keep his ding by putting it into an oven. The bagpipes and played them continuously durclothing etc., was put in an oven and the ing several of the forced marches from one heat turned up sufficiently to kill the camp to another. bugs without burning the clothing. As the Brethren slowly made themselves known Most of the Brethren named on the Roll apto each other they arranged to meet toparently perished whilst working on the railgether each Thursday afternoon. Once way. Unfortunately, it has not been possible sufficient numbers attended on a regular to confirm all the details of the Brethren basis they were able to convince their named on the Roll. Japanese guards (and other non-Masons] This year sees the 60th Anniversary of the that they were holding a religious service. end of the Second World War, the The only item used was the Volume of 'Unconditional Surrender' of the Axis forces the Sacred Law. All the Degrees were in Europe on 7th May 1943 and many regard worked and with the diversity of Constithis as the end of the War. It was not until tutions present the Brethren were also 14th August 1945 that the Emperor of Japan ordered his treated to lectures by Past Masters on the Symbolism of forces to lay down their arms. Freemasonry, the different workings in each Constitution and in-depth discussions as to the different rituals etc. Even after the cessation of hostilities the tribulations of the POW.'s were not over. Many were left in camps all over MaThe Japanese Guards were ever present, especially when 'large' groups of prisoners moved around. How then were the laya waiting for to be released. Some very small scale Masonic activity took place, even if only on a one to one basis. It Brethren able to meet every Thursday afternoon and hold was important at this very last moment to maintain spirits. It Masonic discussions for an hour or two? Who was the Tyis worthy of note that the last St Andrew's day service held ler? The fact that these 'gatherings' (whilst doing the necessary 'debugging') were thought to be religious in nature means before relief by Empire Forces was held in a small native hut. that the Japanese guards unwittingly 'volunteered' to keep off It is specifically remembered that towards the end of this service two Brethren who were not of the Scottish Constitution all `Cowans and Eavesdroppers'. One stood outside the door and the other stood inside. Both had a rifle with fixed knowing what the occasion was, approached from a distance, bayonet. Needless to say neither could speak nor understand singing; "there is a voice calling, calling" As they approached the 'kirk' their voices grew more powerful. The men present English! wept. The Japanese forces were anxious to consolidate their position and planned also to invade India through Burma. Once The veterans of the Far East War often consider themselves the work in Singapore was completed therefore, most of the to have been part of the 'Forgotten Army'. Let us never forget P.O.W.'s were transferred to the infamous Burma/Siam Rail- these Brethren who kept the Light of Freemasonry alive in way. I have been unable to trace any organised Masonic ac- the most unimaginable of circumstances. tivity in the various camps there which hardly surprising given the conditions and the constant movement of P.O.W.'s. Even in these circumstances individuals remembered the Masonic precepts of Faith, Hope and Charity, assisting each other where possible, even if only to hold hands whilst a Brother passed to the Grand Lodge above [18]. On one occasion a Brother was asked to stay in a camp to look after six P.O.W.'s who were near death. He recalls rolling hand-made
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November 7, Pinal Lodge No. 30
November 1, 2019 Kearny Poker Night
7:00 pm Stated Meeting
Ray Winkelman Lodge No. 24 7:30 pm Poker Kearny Style 209 Essex Road Kearny AZ 480-433-9023
November 4, Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 7:00 pm Monday’s at the Lodge
November 11, Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 5:00 pm Dinner at Mount Athos 7:00 pm Stated Meeting 9:00 pm Post meeting discussion at Mount Athos
November 2, 2019 Gila Valley Poker Night Gila Valley Lodge No. 9
7:00 pm Poker Gila Valley Lodge Style At Guinn’s House BRING BABY ITEMS TO DONATE
November 9 White Mountain No. 3
November 16, 2019 Arizona Masonic Family Gala IORG
10:00 am Stated Meeting
Arizona Grand Assembly Rainbow Girls
November 9, Globe Chapter No. 7 R.A.M 2:00 pm Stated Meeting
6:30 pm Arizona Golf Resort, 435 S. Power Rd Mesa, Az Dinner, and Masonic Artifacts Auction
November 12, Ray-Winkleman No. 24
November 23, 2019 Degree in the Desert
7:30 pm Stated Meeting
King Solomon Lodge No. 5 / Prometheus Lodge No. 87 Tombstone, Arizona
November 12, Ocotillo Chapter No. 21 OES
7:00 pm Monday’s at the Lodge
7:00 pm Stated Meeting
January 27, 2020 Make a Different Day
November 14, Apache Lodge No. 69
Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 Florence, Arizona
7:300 pm Stated Meeting
7:00 am Begins
November 18, Gila Valley Lodge No. 9
March 7, 2020 Lost Dutchman Degree
7:00 pm Monday’s at the Lodge
Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 Superstition Mountains, Arizona
November 21, Eloy Lodge No. 46
10:00 am Degree Begins
7:00 pm Stated Meeting
November 25, Gila Valley Lodge No. 9 7:00 pm Monday’s at the Lodge
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On August 26th, members of Gila Valley Lodge drafted the first ever Gila Valley Fantasy Football league. Champion will donate half their winning to the Lodge! Fantasy football is a game in which the participants serve as General Managers of virtual professional gridiron football teams. The competitors choose team rosters by participating in a draft in which all players of a real football league are available Keep your eyes out for monthly standings! For information, Contact the League Commission Bro. Joe Guinn at guinnjoe@gmail.com.
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D. Genchi
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J. Woode
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N. Genchi
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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! 30
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/94-2746389 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, Craig Hutchison Secretary, Masonic Charities of Arizona www.masoniccharitiesaz.com crghutch@gmail.com
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Anthony Raimondi Email: Raimondi_57@msn.com
Eric Smith Email: jiminys@yahoo.com
Email: roger.biede@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
John Woode
Chairman: WB Daniel Genchi PM
Email: jwoode591@gmail.com
Email: dmgenchi@gmail.com
Chairman: Eric Smith Email: jiminys@yahoo.com
Brian Ringer
Chairman: WB Roger Biede III PM
Email:
Email: roger.biede@gmail.com
Chairman: Dewey Jefferson Email: djndjedderson48@yahoo.com
Daniel Genchi PM Email: dmgenchi@gmail.com
Chairman: WB Roger Biede III PM Email: roger.biede@gmail.com
Chairman: Gale MacDougall HPM Email: bearinbox@con.net
Dave “DJ� Jones Email: dejones2063@gmail.com
Dewey Jefferson Chairman Daniel Genchi PM Roger Biede III 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 810 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. 35