THE VOICE OF FREEMASONRY IN NORTHWEST OHIO SINCE 1916
(USPS 632-860)
Vol. 99 No. 10
June 2015
Masonic Lodges Go Dark for the Summer, but for the Brethren, the Fun is Just Beginning!
As summer comes and our lodges go dark, the days get longer and Masons have them filled with activities, including camping trips, fishing trips, Mud Hens outings, the Browning Cruise-In and a Classic Car Show to benefit Adopt America at the Maumee Summer Fair, golf outings, the Memory Care Road Rally and so much more. So check out the Bulletin and start filling your calendar!
And a Fair-ly Golden Opportunity… As we go to press, the Eleventh District is considering the opportunity to take over the restaurant concession (previously operated by the Odd Fellows) at the Wood County Fair (Aug 3-10) and the National Tractor Pull (Aug 20-23). If approved, we’ll be operating the only air-conditioned restaurant on the fairgrounds, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. While this can raise a substantial sum of money for our lodges and provide some excellent exposure for the fraternity, it will also require a substantial commitment of manpower from the Brethren. We’ll need to man four shifts (5 a.m.-10:00 a.m., 10 a.m.-2:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.-10 p.m.) every day. Due to the timing of this information and publication date of The Bulletin, they are asking for participation now and, if the project is approved, they’ll contact you as we get closer to the event. If you’d like to help, call the scheduling coordinator, Jason Shamy, at 419-350-5714, or by email at jshamy13@gmail.com.
Absolutely EVERYBODY is Going to the 13th Annual CRUISE-IN at the Browning!
Electronic Service Requested
Now in its thirteenth year, the Cruise-In has become a popular event at Browning Masonic Community in Waterville. Over a hundred classic cars are usually on display, their proud owners beaming as brightly as the cars are shining. (There’s a registration form inside.) But the Cruise-In has grown to be much more than just a car show.
There are crafts and displays, activities for the kids and, of course, the food: luscious BBQ chicken, ice cream and an assortment of fair food to feast on. It makes a perfect family outing for Masons and non-Masons alike, and it’s all happening on Saturday, July 25th. So pack up the family in your classic or not-so-classic car, and cruise on out to the Cruise-In!
(See pg 17 for registration form)
Page 2
June 2015
Sylvania Pyramid recently paid host to two Brethren from beyond the pond. Shown here is Sylvania Pyramid’s WM Jimmie Simpson (left) and Junior Warden Rod Johnstone (second from right) with WB Malcolm Marcovitch and Joel Marcovitch from Forest Ridge Lodge #8306 in London.
When Pam Taylor (right) was installed as Worthy Matron of Harmony Chapter in Gulfport, Mississippi, her Installing Team included her niece Courtney Boos, her mother Thelma Boos and her sister Beth Wesley, all of Lotus Chapter.
From all reports, Toledo Fort Industry’s 8th Annual Sporting Clay Shoot was a bang-up success, knocking down more than $1500 for Special Olympics, while everyone had good time, as well.
Upon being named an Outstanding Chapter by the Grand Chapter OES, Port Clinton Chapter #267 were commended by the Senate of the State of Ohio for their tireless work to better the world around them.
Members of Rubicon Lodge and Triune Chapter joined together for a Mystery Lunch, which led to a drive to Bryan and a delightful meal at Father John’s Brewery.
THE MASONIC BULLETIN Published Monthly Except July and August Periodical Postage Paid at Maumee Ohio and other locations USPS #632-860 Under the auspices of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio WILLIAM R. MARKIN, KYCH Editor and Publisher editor@TMBOhio.com GARY L. MCELFRESH, 33o Business Manager business@TMBOhio.com WILLIAM C. McCORMICK, KYCH Business Manager Emeritus 9555 Captiva Dr. Sylvania, Ohio 43560 419-897-0410 Fax 419-897-0430 Subscription $20 per year Foriegn $35 per year (in American currency or U.S. Money Order Drawn on U.S. Bank)
It was a capacity crowd when weather forced Yondota and Triune Chapters to move their Honor Masons picnic indoors, but nothing could put a damper on the festivities, the delicious cooked by Bro. Brage Elliott, or the delightful entertainment provided by the Melody Makers. More than just men in skirts, the 166th Annual Highland Games in Livonia, MI, will have pipes and drums, heavy athletics, two stages of continuous entertainment featuring national and regional artists, pipe band and highland dance competitions, a parade of clans, a “Wee Bairns” area (for the young children), and a diverse marketplace of Celtic crafts, collectibles, and food, and maybe even a wee bit of Scotch Whiskey. And again this year, the Valley of Toledo Knights of St. Andrews will be there joining in the fun on Saturday, August 1st. For more information, talk to the Valley Office, any KSA member or Ron Driebert, whose contact information can be found elsewhere in this Bulletin.
Key to the Sea AMD will hold their June meeting at Forest Cemetery in Toledo, and it will be open to all Masons and their families. After meeting at the Masonic Memorial, Bro. Greg Zook will conduct a Masonic tour of the final resting place of many prominent and obscure members of the fraternity. For details, call Greg Zook at 419-340-9799.
At a Stated Meeting of Perrysburg Chapter on May 7, Lynn Grear presented a 40 year service pin to Shirley Hensel, and another to Brenda Roadarmel, who is also Lynn’s sister.
Damascus/Collingwood Senior Deacon Neal Spurgeon and Worshipful Master Sean Howell presented their Community Builder award to Mrs. Sue Hess for her work with the Toledo Area Special Olympics. Without her dedication and enthusiasm, many kids may not have the opportunity to enjoy that wonderful experience.
When Sir Knight James Wood of St. Omer Commandery received his 60 year pin, no less than Grand Commander Thomas Gault made the presentation, along with Recorder Robert TerDoest and Commander Cliff Hiestand.
Page 22
June 2015
A LETTER FROM A DISGRUNTLED MASON
MILES OF MEMORIES FOR ROAD RALLY FANS On Saturday, August 22, the Ohio Masonic Home Foundation is hosting their fourth annual Miracle Miles for Memory Care Road Rally. Drivers in cars and on motorcycles from around the State of Ohio will ask friends and family to sponsor their ride to support memory care. There will be four starting points with the kick-off celebration at Browning Masonic Community featuring a pancake breakfast from 8:0010:00 a.m. that’s open to the public (drivers registered for the rally will eat for free), music by the Genoa American Legion Band and other activities
The Road Rally will launch at 10:00 a.m. and head to the Delaware County Fairgrounds, where it will culminate with a giant tailgate party featuring a live band “The Menus”, food vendors, prizes and a car show. Funds raised through the Miracle Miles Memory Care Road Rally go for the memory care centers, to help ensure that the residents receive the best and most up-to-date programming possible, and programs which not only support the individual, but also to give training and support to the caregivers – staff, and family members alike.
Ron Drebert
DIstrict Sales Coordinator An Independent Associate Representing AFLAC
108 West Front Street Findlay, OH 45840 419.420.0211 business/fax 419.581.9766 mobile Ronald_drebert@us.aflac.com
This letter was written to me by a Mason who was quite disappointed with his treatment and degree work when he came in. I have sat in lodges where I winced watching a degree done poorly. I knew that we were not impressing the new candidate that night. We need to take pride again in our degree work. That is why we stand out as an organization. If you are one of these lodges, you need to practice long before you have candidates. Your members will not be bringing in new members if the degree work is not done properly. To note, this lodge
Sorry for not getting back to you Mike. My wife and I have discussed my continued membership in the Scottish Rite over the last couple of years. Given that I have never participated in any Scottish Rite activity in all the years I have been a member, we feel suspending my membership not an issue. Please know that it is not a financial issue. I have even considered suspending my MM membership. This has more to with my early experience in the Master Mason organization and being turned off by my experience there. Because of this, I have never participated in Blue Lodge either. Be advised that my memory of the following has gotten a little foggy over the last 25-30 years and the names involved long gone but this pretty accurately describes what I remember. I was being initiated into the FC degree or possible the MM degree. The old fellow assigned to be with me went into a tirade about how the Japanese attacked the Americans and on and on and on. At this point I was ready to just walk out as I’m thinking if this is what Masonry is about, I don’t want any part of this. For whatever reason, I decided to finish up what I started possibly because I had put a lot of time and effort into the memory work. I eventually figured out on my own that Masonry had nothing to do with Japan’s relationship with the United States but never really found out what Masonry was about. In retrospect today, the old guy may have been a WWII vet and been part of what he was talking about and maybe was trying to initiate a conversation. I have no idea but wasn’t thinking that at the time I thought I would give it one more try and attended an initiation of one of the three degrees. As there were more than enough MM’s present, I simply observed the process. It was pure torture listening to every person involved severely butchering the memory work. It was like the MM’s participating had never done this work before. All I was thinking is I have to get out of here, this is ridiculous wasting my time for this. I left and never went back. I stayed with the original lodge for a number a years but never attended. I eventually transferred to a lodge which is much closer to my home thinking I might try one last time. I’ve never been there either. You might think what I just described as coming from someone with a couple loose screws or maybe a petty complaint. I have a highly technical career and feel my faculties are pretty sharp even as I’m close to retiring. Possible I just expected too much? Whatever it was, I was left completely disillusioned with Masonry. I have always wanted to say something about this and now I have. My wife doesn’t even know and thinks I just don’t have time. Now one less thing on my bucket list. Respectfully, Name Withheld
Grand Chapter 2018
8th District R.A.M Fund Raiser
June 18 or 26, 2015 August 20 or 28, 2015 October 15 or 23, 2015 Open to Close Valid on Dine In or Carry Out Bob Evans will donate 15% of sales when you present this flyer* to
Join us at any of our Northwest Ohio restaurants
www.BobEvans.com/BEkind
*Flyer must be presented at time of check out.
COMING UP RITE SOON:
6/12-13/15
OCD
1:00PM
Cincinnati
Cincinnati
6/29/15
Scottish Rite Golf
Noon
York Country Club
Columbus
7/18/15
Mud Hens Family Night
6:00PM
5/3 Field
Toledo
8/29-9/1/15
Supreme Council
All Day
Indianapolis, IN
Indianapolis, IN
9/8/15
Annual Meeting
7:30PM
Zenobia Shrine Center
Perrysburg
9/12/15
Fishing Trip
8:00AM
Shore-Nuf
Pt. Clinton
9/26/15
Testimonial Dinner
6:00PM
Northwest Community
Archbold
10/3/15
Fall Reunion
8:00AM
Lima Temple
Lima
THE SCOTTISH RITE AND ZENOBIA SHRINERS
MUD HENS FAMILY NIGHT
Saturday, July 18 Although Although it’s it’s difficult difficult today today to to see see beyond beyond the the sorrow, sorrow, May May looking looking back back in in memory memory help help comfort comfort you you tomorrow. tomorrow. Rest Rest in in peace, peace, Brethren…. Brethren….
Rolan J Bingham Raymond L Cole Kenneth G Colthorpe Robert C Donnelly Lester R Hart
Terry H Miller W Frederick Smith Charles D Taubler Bryan L Waggoner III John R Werley
The A.A.S.R. Valley of Toledo has made a contribution in their name to a Scottish Rite charity.
is no longer in existence. Perhaps this could be one reason why. And yes, I lost this member and he is considering dropping from Masonry altogether. I was moved by what he wrote. He knows that I am writing about this in this issue. Unfortunately you can’t go back and correct it. I only hope that it was a bad night so many years ago and that the Lodges in this area will once again take pride in their work. We don’t need to lose good brethren for something that we can control. — Mike Shobe
The Roost Buffet 6:00p.m. – 7:30 p.m. ENJOY AN ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET IN THE AIR-CONDITIONED ROOST Grilled Hamburgers • Hot Dogs Potato Salad • Baked Beans Cookies • Pop and Water
MudHens vs Indianapolis Indians Postgame Fireworks
Yes, sign me up! I would like ____ tickets @ $30.00 each (Includes All American Dinner and Game Ticket) Name: ___________________________ Address: __________________________ City:______________________ State: ___ Zip:_________
Send Check to: AASR - Valley of Toledo 302 W. Sophia St., Unit C Maumee, OH 43537 Credit Card #_________________________________ Exp Date___________ 3 Digit Code______________ Your Ticket(s) will be Available at the Washington Street Entrance starting at 5:30 p.m. Look for the table near the entrance. Tickets will NOT be at the Will Call Window. Questions? - (419)-893-2942.
June 2015
Page 23
“Friends of Hiram”
Perch Fishing Tournament
D/C 643 is Clearly “Open for Business”
September 19th, 2015 (rain date September 20th) Launch from
Turtle Creek Marina 6338 N. Humphrey Road • Oak Harbor, OH $550 per boat, 2-6 person boat (including captain) For complete rules and entry form, contact:
William G. Windnagel P.O. Box 227 • Oak Harbor, Oh. 43449 windnagel@hotmail.com 40 boat limit. Preference given to boats with a Masonic affiliation (one dues card holder) until June 1, then open to anyone. All boats must pass an Ohio Division of Watercraft inspection and comply with all State and Federal wildlife laws.
CLASSIC CAR SHOW at the MAUMEE SUMMER FAIR
Never ones to be shackled by “the way things have always been done”, when the Brothers of Damascus Collingwood Lodge opened their doors for an open house on April 28, they promoted the event with four strategically-placed billboards that cost only $240 (after Grand Lodge Matching Funds) and attracted 20 interested visitors plus wives and children. Follow up events such as Bowling Night, Movie Night and an open lodge pot luck, where they honored Past Masters and presented their Community Builders award, have kept those who have shown serious interest engaged, while giving the Lodge a chance to get to know them better. In addition, several open house attendees have brought interested friends to follow up events, making the Open House a huge and exciting success.
Take a Tour of Our Masonic History with RWB Russell Herner
SATURDAY, AUGUST 8, 2015 • 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Registration 8:00 - 10:00 AM Pre-register $8.00 or Register Day of Show $10.00 CONANT ST. & E. BROADWAY (enter off Gibbs St.) DASH PLAQUES (first 100 cars) CASH AWARD TO CAR CLUB WITH MOST ENTRIES, 50/50 RAFFLE FOOD & DRINK AVAILABLE Proceeds to Benefit ADOPT AMERICA focusing on placing special needs children looking for a home for keeps
SPONSORED BY MAUMEE MASONIC COMPLEX ROYAL ARCH MASONS OF OHIO DISTRICT 8 and the MAUMEE UPTOWN BUSINESS ASS0CIATION
Many of you have probably had the pleasure of hearing RWB Russell Herner, 33o, speak of his nearly half a century of travels and research on the cathedrals of Europe. Now, Brother Herner has brought together this research with drawings and color photography, in a beautiful 224-page coffee table book that captures the magnificence of European cathedrals and the brilliance of the Master Builders and craftsmen who designed and built them. Cathedral building is a fusion of man’s greatest accomplishments in the arts, sciences, and humanities over the centuries. Nearly 260 photos and drawings capture the quality and craftsmanship built into these stunning structures created to replicate God’s house or heaven on Earth. Color photos illustrate the gorgeous naves, detailed fan vaulted ceilings, beautiful stained-glass windows, flying buttresses, and 650-year-old parchment drawings of the cathedrals. You’ll discover the origin of Gothic architecture, see how Gothic cathedrals were built using primitive tools, and gain some insights into one theory of the formation and significance of our fraternity. The book will be available in July, but may be pre-ordered now at www.schifferbooks.com.
at Shawn’s Irish Tavern! Masonic Mondays
You’re invited to join us for Masonic Mondays at Shawn’s Irish Tavern! Mondays, June 8, 15, 22, 29 Bring your coupon and eat at any of the three Shawn’s Irish Tavern locations to support memory care through Browning Masonic Community and the Miracle Miles for Memory Care Road Rally. For each coupon received a portion of the sales will be given back to the community through caregiver education and programming. Every 67 seconds someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s, so come out and help those living with this disease.
Bring this coupon in to any of the three Shawn’s Irish Tavern locations to support memory care locally!
ALL THREE LOCATIONS! p4400 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo p105 S. Third St., Waterville p7436 W. Bancroft, Sylvania
Coupon good these Mondays: June 8, 15, 22, 29. Make copies and share with friends and family! Offer cannot be combined with any other coupons, discounts or offers. Shawn’s Irish Tavern reserves the right to discontinue this program at any time.
Page 24
June 2015
Secretary’s Report
A wonderful night was held for the election, installation and presenting 10 excited young people each a $1,600 scholarship. We have a great core of line officers who are ready to help the Valley and serve you.
OCD
Ohio Council of Deliberations (OCD) will be held this year on June 12th & 13th in CinMike Shobe, 33o cinnati , Ohio. (Not Columbus, as I erroneously reported last month). Our very deserving recipients of the Meritorious Service Awards (MSA) go to Brother Tom Hilton who has served on the stage crew and the last 4 years have taken over as Stage Director and Brother Norman Kurtz, who has also been a great help to the Scottish Rite and also for the last 4 years has served as Treasurer on the Board of Trustees. Both of these gentlemen are hard-working Masons. Come on out to the banquet in Cincinnati and honor them for their
Take me out to the ballgame (Again).
This year we will be joining the Zenobia Shriners once again for a Family Mud Hens Night on Saturday, July 18, 2015. $30 includes the “All American Buffet” of Grilled Hamburg, Hot Dogs and the trimmings plus a game ticket. We will eat in the comfortable inside, airconditioned ROOST. We have reserved the 3rd floor which will allow you to go straight out to your seat. See the flyer for more information.
GOLF OUTING
The annual Scottish Rite Golf outing is scheduled for Monday, June 29. This year, it has been moved a little closer to the beautiful and highly-rated York Country Club, in Columbus, Ohio. EVERYONE is invited. I seriously see this event sold out quickly. It will be limited to 144 golfers. See the ad in this Bulletin for more information. Hotel arrangements have been set up at the Sheraton Suites - 201 Hutchinson Ave. - Call Daniel Nelson 614-781-7316 and mention the York Golf Outing to get a rate of $89.00 + tax. Let’s get your foursome together have a good showing again from Toledo. It’s time to bring that trophy back to this office! Forms are in this Bulletin or call the office.
Valley Elects, Installs and Awards
Going Fishing
New Event! September 12th will be an all-day fishing trip. The Valley has chartered the “Shore-Nuf Charters” head boat in Port Clinton for perch fishing. The day includes a great day in Lake Erie, lunch, drinks, and bait for only $50.00. You need a fishing rod (rental available) and a license. Limited to the first 35 paid participants. Prizes will be awarded. See form in this Bulletin or sign up online.
Please Read this Letter
I want to ask all of you to read the letter on page 22. It was written to me by a disgruntled Mason, and I think it gives all of us something to think about. I hope you all have a great summer. Don’t forget about our summer events. Take care brethren and I wish a speedy recovery for our shut-ins. Mike
Mark Your Calendars
2015 Fall Reunion
17TH DEGREE PRACTICE SCHEDULE Director: Joseph C. Radocy
July 19, 3:00 p.m.............. Tiffin Lodge Aug 15, 5:00 p.m........ Bellevue Lodge Aug 30, 3:00 p.m.......... Findlay Lodge Sept 12, 4:00 p.m... Perrysburg Lodge Late September...........Fremont Lodge Late September...............Lima Temple
It was a time of celebration as the Valley of Toledo enjoyed the election and installation of new officers, and the awarding of ten $1600 scholarships to deserving area students, some of whom are shown above.
VALLEY OF TOLEDO PERCH FISHING TRIP
Saturday, September 12 Aboard the 42’ boat “Lakebound” for a fun filled, relaxing Yes, sign me up! I would like ________ reservation(s) @ $50 each day on Lake Erie (Includes charter, lunch, drinks and bait) Boat casts off at 8:00 a.m. Returns at 3:00 p.m. Load up at Shore-Nuf Charters 247 Lakeshore Drive Port Clinton, OH 43452
Name: ___________________________ Address: __________________________ City:______________________ State: ___ Zip:_________
Featuring the 4th, 8th, 17th, 28th, and the New 32nd
You Should Bring Rain Gear, Layer Clothing, Sun Glasses, Soft-Sole Shoes, Sun Screen, Hat, Cooler to bring fish home, and your FISHING LICENSE !
Watch the Bulletin for more information
LOAD LIMIT FIRST 35!
Lima Masonic Temple • October 3, 2015
Send Check to: AASR - Valley of Toledo 302 W. Sophia St., Unit C Maumee, OH 43537 Credit Card #_________________________________ Exp Date___________ 3 Digit Code______________
THIRTY SECOND DEGREE FREEMASONRY • ANCIENT ACCEPTED SCOTTISH RITE VALLEY OF TOLEDO Mi-A-Mi Lodge of Perfection
Northern Light Council
Charter Granted September 22, 1880
Charter Granted September 21, 1881
Michael E. Shobe 33o, Secretary Mike@ToledoAASR.com
Ft. Industry Chapter of Rose Croix
Toledo Consistory S.P.R.S.
302 W. Sophia St. Unit C • Maumee, OH 43537 419-893-2942 • FAX 419-893-2962 www.ToledoAASR.com
Trent T. Dominique Thrice Potent Master
William H. Garrett Sovereign Prince
Eric L. Crow – Deputy Master William G. Windnagel – Senior Warden Roger E. Rosebrough – Junior Warden Michael E. Shobe, 33º - Exec. Secretary Gary L. Smith – Orator Charles R. Murphy, 33º - Hospitaler Steven B. Cooley – Master of Ceremonies Douglas W. Eis – Captain of the Guard Richard L. Davis MSA – Tyler
John J. Stone – High Priest Robert R. Rettig - Senior Warden Norman L. Kurtz, - Treasurer Michael E. Shobe, 33º - Exec. Secretary Steven M. Grindle - Junior Warden Charles R. Murphy, 33º - Hospitaler Thomas E. Blansett, Jr. Master of Ceremonies Stephen C Hill - Master of Entrances Richard L. Davis MSA – Tyler
Board of Trustees Trent T. Dominique - Chairman Timothy L. Jolliff, 33° - Vice Chairman David L. Roper, 33° - At Large Jeremy Z. Sharninghouse, 33° - At Large Norman L. Kurtz, MSA - Treasurer Michael E. Shobe, 33° - Executive Secretary William H. Garrett Michael A. LakeKevin R. Weisman
Michael A. Lake Most Wise Master
Kevin R. Weisman Commander-in-Chief
Joseph C. Radocy - Senior Warden David L. Hawk - Junior Warden Ronald T. Drebert - Orator Charles R. Murphy - Hospitaler Isaac D. Demarest Master of Ceremonies Timothy D. Williams Captain of the Guard
Wade E Young - 1st Lt. Cdr. John J. Zettler - 2nd Lt. Cdr. Jeffrey D. Young - Orator John K. Cavendish - Chancellor Timothy L. Larimore Master of Ceremonies Mark P. Allred, Jr. - Engineer & Senechal Norman L. Kurtz - Treasurer Michael E Shobe, 33°