Grand Master Performs Rare Cornerstone Ceremony on New Grand

VOL. XXXII NO. 2
THE GRAND LODGE OF NEBRASKA
Summer 2013
The Vision of Nebraska Masonry: Nebraska Freemasonry will establish itself as the premier fraternal organization
promoting universally acknowledged values of friendship, morality, and brotherly love.
Grand Master Performs Rare Cornerstone Ceremony on
New Grand Lodge Building
by Patrick Barger, Grand Junior Deacon
From our earliest known history, Masons have performed
time-honored cornerstone ceremonies to dedicate Lodges, public
buildings, and memorials. Most Worshipful Thomas L. Hauder
performed this rarely seen ceremony in dedication of the new
Grand Lodge Office in Lincoln at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June
9, 2013. A ribbon cutting ceremony and open house of the building and grounds were held afterward as well. M∴W∴ Hauder,
his officers, and the Grand Lodge staff were honored to have
so many Masons, ladies and friends with them to witness the
ceremony.
Grand Marshal Bob
Moninger proclaims that the
cornerstone of the Grand
Lodge office has been found
true and trusty, and laid in
ample form from the North.
Grand Master Tom Hauder
observes while Grand Junior
Deacon Patrick Barger and
Grand Senior Deacon Rick
Myers hold the cornerstone. Photo by Ann Hauder
In ancient times, buildings were “plumbed,” “squared” and
“leveled” by stonemasons. Their cornerstones were perfect starting points for all buildings without which the quality of the entire
structure would steadily diminish throughout the course of its
life span. Since a cornerstone is perfectly hewn, it is symbolic
of the high level of fellowship, fraternity, and service the Grand
Lodge of Nebraska has engendered throughout its own 156
year life span. As part of this ancient ceremony, the officers of
the Grand Lodge of Nebraska symbolically examined our new
building to ensure it remains squared, leveled, and plumbed to
carry that great and important undertaking for years to come.
After beginning around the 15th century in Scotland, this
Masonic ceremony is thoroughly established in American history as well. Since before this country was born, Masons have
conducted this ceremony for countless public buildings in addition to Masonic structures like the new Grand Lodge Building.
Brother George Washington conducted this very ceremony
for the U.S. Capitol Building in D.C. as did Brother Benjamin
Franklin at Independence Hall in Philadelphia. Presidents Andrew Jackson and Harry Truman were prominent Masons who
also conducted this ceremony in the name of the Masonic fraternity. Other important ceremonies conducted by Freemasons were
performed at the White House, the Smithsonian Institution, many
courthouses across the state, and the Nebraska State Capitol.
Masons, their families and friends, as well as members of the
general public from all over Nebraska assembled to mark not
only a dedication, but a renewal—a renewal of our commitment
to advance and secure the dignity and future prosperity of our
beloved fraternity.
Our Grand Master dedicated a building whose spirit is
already hallowed by the noble efforts of previous generations.
We are strengthening the chain of our history which connects
those who envisioned the creation of the Grand Lodge of Nebraska with those who seek to ensure its integrity through the
horizon of future periods. We must remember that every Mason
is henceforth the custodian not only of this Masonic edifice, but
of the ideals of Masonry as well.
Like our Brother George Washington, the officers of the
Grand Lodge of Nebraska were honored to use the familiar
working tools of ancient stonemasons to conduct the ceremony
in dedication of this grand edifice. We wish you and all who
enter its doors the best of wishes in the years to come.
Past Grand Master Russ
Reno spreads cement on the
cornerstone. Pictured left to
right are John Parsons, PGM;
Reg Kuhn, PGM; Tom Hauder,
Grand Master; Russ Reno,
PGM, Grand Junior Deacon
Patrick Barger; and Grand
Senior Deacon Rick Myers.
Photo by Ann Hauder
Kurt Hesser of the
Lincoln Chamber
of Commerce
congratulated the
Grand Lodge of
Nebraska on their
new building at
the ribbon cutting
that followed
the cornerstone
ceremony. Pictured are Joe McBride, Deputy Grand Master; Paul
Eveland; PGM; Ivan Vrtiska, PGM; Tom Hauder, Grand Master; Russ
Reno (behind), PGM; Ken Beebe, PGM; Kurt Hesser; Reg Kuhn, PGM;
John Parsons, PGM; Bruce Baker, PGM; and John Maxell, Grand
Senior Warden. Photo by Wade Kendle
Nebraska Masonry - Men putting ethics into practice.
1
Grand
Master’s
Grand Master’sMessage
Message
Thomas L. Hauder
Greetings from the East!
It’s been a busy first part of the year with many activities
both for the Grand Lodge officers and for the Grand Lodge
office! So let me take a few lines to bring you up to date!
New Grand Lodge office – The move to the new Grand
Lodge office went extremely smoothly. On Saturday 20 April,
we started moving boxes at 8:30am and were done by 11:30am
thanks to the help we had from various Lodges, the Children’s
home and Grand Lodge officers. It also helped that Michelle
was boxed up and ready to go! The new office is looking
very nice with just a few boxes left to unpack. The conference room is ready and has already hosted several committee
and other meetings. There are still a few things to do on the
punch list but we are ready for our cornerstone ceremony on
9 June! (Check the Grand Lodge blog for pictures from the
cornerstone ceremony!)
Museum / Library – The new museum/library project
should be started by the time you read this message. It will occupy the east end of the Grand Lodge building and will be open
before the end of the summer. We hope to have the books and
some other items on display for the Craft or scholars to use.
Strategic Planning – As some of you know from my visits
to your Lodge, the advancing line has undertaken a project to
create a 5-year plan to address some of the larger challenges
that are facing our Craft. We have identified 5 major areas
that need attention and are multi-year projects. The planning
effort is currently in the process of working out the details
of how to address each of those challenges and the timeline
for doing so. This process will be repeated each year by the
advancing line to adjust the plan to meet current and future
needs. When we get the plan ready to launch, it will be published for the Craft to examine.
CHIP and Linked24 – Look for my article elsewhere
in this issue announcing the partnership between CHIP and
Linked24. This partnership will allow us to raise funds for
the CHIP program through the online sales of the Linked24
service for your smart phone. This service will give you and
your family another layer of safety and security that you can
use every day. Check it out!
Is Ritual Important?
One of the challenges that we are targeting with our strategic planning is the issue of the quality of our ritual. The
fundamental question that often comes up is whether or not
ritual is important. It is my firm belief that ritual is the foundation of Masonry and without that foundation we would be no
different than a dozen other organizations. Without the ritual,
we could just hand out membership cards and let it go at that.
Ritual serves a variety of purposes in our quest to become
true Master Masons:
• Common goal – By having consistent, defined ritual
that we all participate in, that establishes a common
goal for the group to work towards. Having a common
goal or experience helps to tie the participants together,
2
thus promoting the bonds of fellowship that we expect
from Masonry.
• Connection to the past and future – Ritual gives us
that connection to our forefathers in Masonry while also
giving us something to pass to the future generations of
Masons.
• Knowledge and Instruction – Everything you need for
your journey to become a true Master Mason is contained within the ritual! The ritual contains those basic
truths and behaviors that have stood the test of time and
are applicable in all times to living a better life. If we
ignore the ritual, let it drift and become sloppy, then we
are losing the essence of Masonry as it was designed
by the great minds of our past.
The mistake that seems to be being made more and more is
in thinking that further light comes with a membership card. It
does not. Further light only comes through the work you put
into learning the ritual and examining the lessons it teaches.
Take the time to think about the things that are in the ritual.
They did not get there randomly, they are not just words used
to take up space. They are guideposts to higher thoughts and
greater deeds. If you have no knowledge of the ritual then
you have no true knowledge of Masonry.
So we will be working toward bringing back excellence
in ritual, not only in the performance of ritual but also in the
understanding of ritual and its place in the total Masonic
experience.
But, is knowing ritual enough? I believe it is only the first
step. The next step is learning to apply the lessons of ritual
to your everyday life and I’ll talk about that in the next issue
of the Nebraska Mason.
(Don’t forget to follow the Grand Lodge blog at nebraskagrandlodge.wordpress.com or my Twitter feed @nebraskaGM)
Adams Bank & Trust Hosts Ninth
Child Identification Program
Pictured are volunteers from Adams Bank & Trust in Ogallala who
helped with the CHIP event sponsored by the bank at St. Paul’s
Lutheran Church in Ogallala. Fifty-five children participated in the event
on April 20th. Adams Bank & Trust branches have sponsored nine CHIP
events in the last several years in North Platte, Ogallala, Imperial,
Madrid, Indianola and Bartley. The CHIP Foundation is pleased to
have such a strong supporter in Adams Bank & Trust.
Bringing Masonic Education To Light
VOL XVI NO 2
A Publication of the Grand Lodge AF & AM of Nebraska
SUMMER 2013
FREEMASONRY AND THE BATTLE OF GETTYSBURG
By John T. Parsons, PGM
July 1, 2, and 3, 2013 marks the 150th
anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg,
perhaps one of the defining moments
of that conflict. It marked the Confederacy’s last attempt at an invasion of the
North, and put them on the defensive for
the remainder of the conflict. Gettysburg
was significant from a Masonic perspective as well, since many of the prominent
individuals involved were Masons, and
there was at least one notable event of
Masonic charity that has been publicly
commemorated and celebrated through
the years. While there were numerous
Masons involved, a few prominent examples follow.
Most people are aware of the general
outline of the battle, with Lee’s Army approaching the town of Gettysburg from
Chambersburg (the west) and Carlisle
(the north), while Meade’s Army moved
north to Gettysburg from Maryland.
On July 1, Union cavalry fought a delaying action against the Confederates
approaching from the west. A little
known fact is that the first shot fired in
the battle was by Lt Marcellus Jones,
a Mason in the 8 th Illinois Cavalry.
The leading Confederate division that
first clashed with the Federal cavalry
was commanded by Gen Harry Heth,
the former Senior Warden of Rocky
Mountain Lodge No. 205 in Utah. The
Union cavalry was finally reinforced
by the arrival of the Union I Corps.
Two of the three divisions in that corps
were commanded by Masons, Thomas
Rowley, and John Robinson. Ironically,
To Light!
John Robinson had been the Worshipful
Master of Rocky Mountain Lodge when
Harry Heth was its Senior Warden. Day
one of the battle ended with the Federals
pulled back to positions on Culp’s Hill,
Cemetery Ridge, and Little Round Top.
Day two saw unsuccessful Confederate attacks against both Union flanks,
Culp’s Hill and Little Round Top. The
Union defense of Little Round Top was
conducted by Col Joshua Chamberlain
and his 20th Maine Infantry. Chamberlain, a member of United Lodge No. 38
in Maine, received the Medal of Honor
for his actions. Since the flank attacks
had failed on day two, Lee determined
to launch an attack against the Union
center on day three. Leading the attack
would be Gen George Pickett’s Virginia
division. Pickett and two of his three
brigade commanders, Generals Kemper
and Armistead, were all Masons.
Defending the Union center was the
Union II Corps, commanded by Winfield S. Hancock, a member of Charity
Lodge No. 190 in Pennsylvania (and
also a Royal Arch Mason and Knight
Templar). Hancock and Armistead
were old friends from pre-war days.
Armistead’s Brigade briefly broke the
center of the Union line, before being
forced back. Armistead fell, mortally
wounded. Kemper and Hancock were
also wounded but survived. Pickett’s
Charge had failed.
As Armistead fell wounded, with
his hand on a Union cannon, he gave
the Masonic distress sign. Capt Henry
Bingham, a member of Hancock’s
staff and a Mason, recognized the sign
and flew to his aid. Armistead was
dismayed to discover that Hancock
had also been wounded, but gave his
Masonic Bible and some other items to
Capt Bingham to give to Gen and Mrs.
Hancock. Armistead died in a Union
Army hospital two days later.
In 1993, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania erected the Friend to Friend
Masonic Memorial at the Gettysburg
National Cemetery. The monument depicts Bingham and the mortally wounded Armistead and has become a major
battlefield attraction. On Memorial Day
2013, the monument was rededicated
by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania to
mark the 150th anniversary of the event.
References: “Freemasons at Gettysburg”: Sheldon A. Munn; “The Better
Angels of Our Nature”: Michael Halleran; “10,000 Famous Freemasons”:
William Denslow
3
The Nebraska Grand
Lodge Education Portal
(http://nebraskamasoniceducation.com/)
has been in existence for some time.
This website provides a good source of
honest and forthright information about
Masonry. The first section of the website
is the Course Catalog. Contained within
this section is a candidate education section, created to give additional information
to the newly initiated, newly passed and
newly raised Mason. Here is provided an
explanation of the 3 degrees, their symbolism, and discussion questions. Each
degree is a PDF file (Adobe Reader can
be downloaded at no cost), which can
be printed. Many Blue Lodge education
programs can be prepared with the information available.
The following sections contain articles
of Masonic subjects that give even further
information about the Fraternity. Some of
the articles are written by Nebraska Masons. Even our Grand Master of Masons
in Nebraska, M∴W∴ Thomas Hauder,
authored some of these articles. These too
are in PDF format and can easily be read
on-line or printed. In this section, you will
find the Masonic Jeopardy games generated by the Education Committee for the
Spring and Fall Education Symposiums.
The discussion forum on this website
has also brought about some lively participation. Once an individual registers,
they are allowed to participate in the
discussions about Masonry or any topic
related to Masonry. This isn’t a free-forall-discussion. A referee will monitor the
discussions and dispatch anyone who
misuses this function.
The Masonic Resource section provides a list of books and websites that
will provide accurate information for
Masonic research. Included in the lists is
the annual Masonic Education Breakfast
Recommended Reading books announced
every year at the Grand Lodge Annual
Communication.
The website is being improved as time
permits. Future additions will include the
monthly Masonic Education sent to secretaries each month. The Nebraska Grand
Lodge Education Committee members are
constantly looking for more ideas, articles,
volunteers and anything else that can promote Masonic Education in Nebraska. If
you are interested in participating, please
contact the Grand Lodge Office, a Grand
Lodge Officer, or Denny Brydl.
4
Friends Forever
The year was 1964. Ten of the Omaha
area Lodge Masters of 1963 are now
Past Masters and with their wives they
committed to meet monthly for a social
gathering in accordance with a long tradition in Nebraska Masonry. The dinners
were held either at one of the Past Masters’ home, or more often at a restaurant
selected round-robin by each of the Past
Masters. What’s distinctive about the
1964 class is that these monthly gatherings have now continued for 49 years!
years Of
course time takes a toll, and the group of
20 from the 1964 initial gathering is now
comprised of six – five ladies and one Past
Master. They are Della Ohlman, widow
of Ed Ohlman, PM of Capitol No. 3; Mary
Bergman, widow of Byron Bergman, PM
of Right Angle No. 303; Carolyn Bates,
widow of Al Bates, PM of Nebraska No.
1; Bonnie Geisler, widow of Joe Geisler,
PM of Covert No. 11; and Ruby Turtcher.
Ruby’s husband Wes Turtcher, PM of
Papillion No. 39 is the sole surviving
Past Master.
There’s an element of Masonic Education here. While we Masons work hard
within our Lodges to learn and improve
ourselves, it’s how we commit those
principles to our lives at home and in the
community that make all the difference.
The 1963 Past Masters may likely have
set an unmatchable standard for their
bond of brotherly love and friendship,
and we honor their commitment.
According to Coil
E x c e r p t s f r o m C o i l ’s M a s o n i c
Encyclopedia, authored by Henry Wilson
Coil.
Alchemy
The most prominent theme of
Alchemy was the effort to discover
the universal solvent or philosopher’s stone which would transmute
base metals into gold, and the elixir
of life that would heal disease and
prolong human existence. Hermes,
Trismegistus, and others in various
countries . . . are listed among the
dabblers in Alchemy. Their writings
were often couched in cabalistic,
cryptic, and symbolic language.
There has been a tendency for
two centuries among imaginative
and sensational writers to corrupt
Freemasonry by coating it with all
sorts of mystical and occult veneers,
of which Alchemy is but one. So successful have they been that many
within and many without the Society
assume that there is some affiliation
of Freemasonry with theosophy, astrology, spiritualism, occultism, magism, or even fortune telling and slight
of hand. There has never been any
association between Freemasonry
and the mystical arts, especially,
alchemy, though doubtless, the
formulators of the numerous Hauts
Grades and other higher degrees
around the middle of the 18th century
resorted to many such sources for
interesting and impressive material
which was valuable in proportion as
it was supernatural.
To Light!
Your Bylaws–Knowing and
Understanding Them
by John Maxell, Grand Senior Warden
The Constitution and Bylaws of the Grand Lodge of Nebraska number over 100 pages. The officers of the subordinate
lodges are asked to know these laws, understand, and implement
them. This can seem to be an impossible task at times. Over the
next couple years, there will be articles summarizing sections
of the Bylaws. The hope is that, by breaking down the Bylaw
book into small parts, each one of you takes the time to come to
understand and see the beauty of legislation. We all know that
old saying “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.”
The Section we will look at this month is Section 2-515 The Audit Committee. Every Master of his Blue Lodge in the
State of Nebraska at the beginning of year will set up his committees for upcoming year. One of these committees has to be
the Audit Committee under Sec 2-515. This committee can be
made up of any Brother of the Lodge who is in good standing
and is not serving as the Master, Secretary, or Treasurer.
The duties of the committee are to audit all books of the
Secretary and Treasurer as of December 31 of each year.
One of the easy ways to do an audit of a Lodge is to take the
Secretary’s minutes and match up the request of approved expenses by the lodge on money to be spent or donated over the
year and compare them with the Lodge’s check book.
Another task the Audit committee needs to do is match all
money transfers to Lodge approved accounts.
A few other tasks that committee can do to help the Master and incoming Master is to review the Lodge’s budget and
recommend changes for the upcoming new year and see that
the Lodge has filed proper IRS paperwork each year. If unsure
what needs to be filed, contact the Grand Lodge office.
After the Audit committee has completed its work, it should
file a report to the secretary and a report should be submitted into
the new year’s minutes and distributed to members of the Lodge.
Please submit your ideas for any future Bylaws that you like
to have covered to Grand Lodge.
For information and registration forms, contact the
Grand Lodge at 800-558-8029, or [email protected].
HAPPY BIRTHDAY GEORGE WASHINGTON
Platte Valley Lodge No. 32 Observes George Washington’s
Birthday. To commemorate George Washington’s birthday, Platte
Valley Lodge No. 32 conferred two Master Mason degrees on Saturday, February 23, 2013 at the Masonic Temple in North Platte.
The degrees were conferred by Platte Valley’s Past Masters.
Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason were Brothers
Jeremy Condon, a member of Platte Valley Lodge and Brother
Corey Griebel, a member of Seneca Lodge No. 284 in Thedford.
The first and second sections were conferred individually and the
lectures were given together. M∴W∴ Thomas Hauder, Grand
Master, V∴W∴ Don Rife, Grand Chaplain, W∴ Patrick Barger,
Grand Jr. Deacon and W∴ Kevin Lindley, Grand Jr. Steward
were on the sidelines and were introduced upon completion of the
degree work. The Grand Master said he was very impressed with
the degree work and congratulated the two new Master Masons,
presenting them with their Nebraska Mason pins. The work was
completed and the Brethren and families were then invited to
an excellent dinner prepared and served by Signet Chapter No.
55 of North Platte. The degree was attended by Brethren from
Platte Valley Lodge, Seneca Lodge and Ogallala Lodge, so the
sidelines were full and some 40 people stayed for the dinner and
the program. All had a memorable and enjoyable time.
L to R 1st row: Larry Linstrom, Corey Griebel, Walter Johnson, Jeremy
Condon, Robert Peal, Robert Petersen, Roland Coker; 2nd Row: M.W.
Tom Hauder, Lloyd Synovec, Ernest Lehmkuhler, Allen Marth, Glenn
Mulholland; 3rd Row: Howard Gebhardt, V. W. Don Rife, Mervin Titchen,
Jim Commer, W. Kevin Lindly
5
The Nebraska Masonic Home
Mary C. Stapp, Executive Director
A butterfly project has been one of
the highlights offered by the Activity
Department this Spring. The residents have
really enjoyed watching the butterflies go
through the life cycle from egg to maturity. Here you see our
residents Lavina and Hazel and employee Amanda releasing
the butterflies.
Betty has never been this close to a fox . . . it became
a reality at the LEGO exhibit in Omaha. Looks real
doesn’t it?
Rootbeer floats are a favorite with the residents.
Catherine is ready to enjoy hers on one of the first
hot days of Spring.
Residents enjoy their rueben sandwiches after
watching a cooking demonstration in the new
Activity Room.
A Special Thank You
A very special thank you is extended to Past Grand Matron
Judy Wehrbein and Past Grand Patron Alvin Benemerito as
well as the Nebraska Grand Family OES for their support
this last year. You should be very proud of the very successful
year you had.
Nebraska Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star and all
the subordinate chapters deserve an extra special thank
you from the residents, staff and Board of Trustees of The
Nebraska Masonic Home.
6
Your donations of money, items for the Activity Department,
visits to our residents throughout the year and during the
holidays, birthday cards for the residents, and many more
kind thoughts, words, and deeds do not go unrecognized.
The support from Nebraska Eastern Star is tremendous, and
you are to be commended.
Best wishes to Sister Bev Donham, Worthy Grand Matron;
Brother Jim Dusch, Worthy Grand Patron, and their Grand
Family during 2013-2014. We wish you a very successful
year and look forward to your visits throughout the year.
Mary C. Stapp, Executive Director
The Nebraska Masonic Home
The Nebraska Masonic Home Foundation
Jo Peters, Director
General Donations (February 19 2012 - May 24, 2013)
Alpha Chapter No. 325, Anonymous, Jeffrey Z. Appleton, Betty Avery, Gerald and Wanda Barnes, Viron and Mildred Baxter, Ruth R. Beach,
Kenneth and Patricia Beebe, Sandra Bekins Von Riesen, James W. Bell, Betty Benjamin, Robert C. Bennett, Raymond W. Bieber, Jerry W. Bigbee,
William C. Boon, Pam Boshart, Larry Bowles, Ed and Carolyn Bredemeier, Bryan and Trudy Bredthauer, Ron and Mary Bryant, Richard and
Lona Burmeister, Marie K. Busboom, David Cappell, Robert and Marilyn Carhart, John E. Carter, Robert L. Cerveny, John G. Chester, Bill and
Madaline Christensen, Chris N. Clark, Tom and Lois Clark, Comet Lodge No. 229, Jay S. Conaway, David E. Cook, Herbert and Sharlene Coulter,
Crete Chapter No. 104, Norma M. Culver, Marion Davies, James and Vicki Dinsmore, William R. Dodge, Randy Dunn and Diann Toler, Delmer
Durham Jr., Bergie and Rose Mary Dyson, Lowell and Mary Lou Erickson, Eureka Chapter No. 86, Sharon A. Fillinger, J.B. and Sherry Fischer,
Randy Fleming, Robert E. Foley, Dale Foltz, Jack and Elaine Ford, Kenneth and Marge Fridrich, Luther and Mary Frost, Dietrick and Mavis Frye,
James and Barb Gammill, Doug and Betty Garwood, Bill and Edna Gekas, George W. Lininger Lodge No. 268, Mary Gillispie, Grand Chapter
of Nebraska Order of the Eastern Star, James L. Griffith, Mike and Sharon Hammond, Gary and Rita Hanson, Bill and Barbara Harris, Frank and
Shirley Hazelwood, Douglas and Denice Heim, Keith and Corene Herbster, Doris N. Hirz, Richard D. Hitz, Richard B. Hobson, Charles and
Nancy Holderby, Al and Pat Hoshor, Donald D. Hotz, Charles and Ruby House, Delbert Huddleston, Larry and Carol Hudkins, Dona Y. Hurst,
John and Barbara Husebo, Wayne and Marilyn Jacobsen, Ralph and Jean Jensen, Brandon and Kristin Kirby, John and Linda Koppenhaver, Paul
and Delores Larson, James L. Lindahl, Harry and Darlene Lipert, Phillip and Sandy Logan, Phil and Marilyn Lorenzen, Robert and Iva Lowry,
Betty Mabon, Walter C. Mailand, Bob and Jackie Maline, Jim and Dee Van Marter, David and Darlene McCord, Cynthia McLaughlin, Maritn and
Carole McMekin, Erna E. Mellor, John and Marilyn Milks, Reed and Joella Miller, William and Janet Miller, Jere L. Milliken, Fred H. Naeve,
The Nebraska Masonic Foundation, Mary Anne Nelson, Ritch A. Nelson, Ed and Linda Nolte, Richard and Marie Odgers, David and Jan Ordway,
Esther Otte, Loren E. Page, Dean Papenhagen, Papillion Chapter No. 114, Ralph and Ruth Parkening, John and Pauline Parsons, Robert Phillip,
Eugene and Pat Pillard, Plainview Lodge No. 204, Raymond and Jeanne Poage, Thomas Pomeroy, Curt Ralston, Bruce and Mary Anne Ramge,
Ace Ranslem, Keri Rheinfrank, Robert and Roma Rhodes, Madine Roberts, Virgil L. Rodgers, Jimmy and Irene Rogers, Donald W. Rogert, Lee
and Carol Rowe, Norman and Carol Schuttler, James and Karen Sharp, Daniel and Joan Shurtliff, Franklin and Susan Smith, Richard and Lois
Smith, Charles and Anita Sohm, Margaret Sorensen, Starcraft Chapter No. 307 Kensington, Stacy and Judy Stasenka, Warren and Joanne Stenback,
Ron and Tami Stites, Scott and Gwendolyn Stoll, Paul and Robin Stoupa, Lloyd and Nola Synovec, Charles and Barbara Talmadge, Tangier Road
Runners Club, Howard and Pat Tarleton, Dale and Lana Sue Thams, Terry and Marilynn Theis, Craig and Rhonda Thompson, James and Patty
Tische, Dewayne and Helen Triplett, Monica L. Tucker, Wes and Ruby Turtscher, Ben and Marilyn Vrana, Rex and Denise Waller, Wausa Lodge
No. 251, Jerrie Wilcox, Warren and Beverly Wilkie, Harold and Wanda Wilkinson, Michael B. Wilson, Thomas and Sally Withers, Michael D. Yale,
Gerald and Alita Young.
Honorarium Donations (February 19, 2012 - May 24, 2013)
Dottie Arent (Holly Chapter No. 233), Pamela Edwards (Eugene G. Edwards), James Erixon (Robert W. Hasebroock), Betty Garwood (Gary
and Rita Hanson), Betty Kirby (Gary and Rita Hanson), The Nebraska Masonic Home Dietary Staff (Cullen and Ardith Pilker), Nadine
McHenry (John and Cheryl Ravenscroft), Naomi Chapter No. 121 (Bev Pickering), Papillion Chapter No. 114 (Bev Pickering), Doris Perkins
(Keri Rheinfrank), Bev Pickering (Ceresco Chapter No. 198), Robert O. Rhodes (Vernon and Sue Kittinger), Jerrie Wilcox (Pam Boshart), Sue
Rhea Zieman (David R. Zieman).
Memorial Donations (February 19, 2012 - May 24, 2013)
Ellsworth Abbott (Humboldt Chapter No. 234), Eva Beck (Tekamah Chapter No. 131), Louella Beck (Tekamah Chapter No. 131), Marlene
Bieber (Raymond W. Bieber), Mary Bly (Duard and Lois Dempster), Dorothy Bower (John W. Bower), Richard and Bonnie Brasel (Ron and
Connie Brasel), Ruth Y. Carroll (Leonard Wray Carroll), Wayne C. Cleaver (Mary J. Cleaver), Maurice “Baldy” and Mary Diehl (Klaus and
Edie Schoenherr), Kenneth Ellenberger (Eureka Chapter No. 86), Dr. Robert Ellsworth Past Grand Organist 1993 (William and Carol Luther,
Robert and Roma Rhodes), Bobby Embury (John and Kimberly Apker, George and Linda Czarnecki, Jerry and Sandy Fetzer, Susan L. Gibson,
Hans Heating and A/C, Inc., Rod Jenkins, Kevin and Julie Kruse, Michael and Jane Lynam, The Meisinger Family, Mark and Debra Prucha, Phil
and Linda Ruden, Gary and Dorothy Schott, Roy and Sharon Smith, Scott and Linda Sparks, Phil and Mary Jo Thielen, William H. Todd, Paul and
Lori Williamson), Jay Evans (Jean O. Allen, Custer Lodge No. 148), Wilber Evans (Patricia Evans-Austin), Virginia Rauert Fagan (Patricia J.
Hancock), George M. Fine (Liz Holman, Pamela Humphrey, David and Lisa Nuhring), Harold Hedlund (Ceresco Chapter No. 198), Mary Jean
Heedum (Roger and Cathy Heedum), Ethel Higgins (Betty L. Mears), Fonda Holliday (Duard and Lois Dempster), Glen R. Hopkins (Duard and
Lois Dempster), Carl Johnson (Duard and Lois Dempster), Lawrence Johnson (Reta Johnson), Ruby Johnson (George and Janna Haun), Erma
Kipling (Jerry and Hedy Ahlvers, Kenneth and Linda Bunnell, David Kipling, Patricia McCormack, Robert and Cynthia McCormack, Betty L.
Mears, Sharon K. Milota, Judy G. Muhe, Gerald and Joyce Stepanek), Ruth Knight (Duard and Lois Dempster), Lowell Lape (James and Donna
Rouch), Barbara Linder (Jon and Dee Schuetz), Robert Marks (Shirley Marks), Bill Martin (Home Chapter No. 189), Mary Beth McQuinn
(Home Chapter No. 189), William (Spec) Nelson (James and Phyllis Anderson), Mildred Noble (Harold W. Noble), Florence Noell (Butch
and Nancy Furse, Ruby Lancaster, Dave and Sonia Meredith, Deloras Shanholtz, Duane and Roxie Heim), Our parents (Richard and Shirley
Schoettger), Doris Perkins (Mid-America Mustangers Car Club), Shirley Petersen (Larry and Karen Foster), Gerald and Virginia Phillips (Joel
and Mickey Phillips), James G. Pickard (Louise G. Pickard), Velma Pierce (Edith Nielsen), David Powell (Marshall and Anne Brown, Robert H.
Diers, Dean and Jeanette Ekberg, Elliott L. Gosch, Steven and Suzette Gosch, Walter B. Graham, William and Susan Graves, Bill and Kay Gordon,
Michael and Diane Huffer, Impact Paper Inc. Bobbie Powell, Robert and Sharon Swartzbaugh, Robert and Nancy Tritsch, David and Noreen Vana,
John and Kim Widhelm), Vada Rasmusson (Marie M. O’Connor), Virgil and Virginia Reigle (Duard and Lois Dempster), John A. Richardson
(Custer Lodge No. 148), Carol Sazama (Wausa Chapter No. 159), Abbie M. Schulze (Nova C. Schulze), Cletus Sharer (Duard and Lois
Dempster), Paul Shelhamer (Duard and Lois Dempster), Lela M. Strope (Duard and Lois Dempster), Robert C. Todd (Mary B. Munson), Walter
Vargesen (Don and Marie Rasmussen), Frank Zabokrtsky (Arnola Zabokrtsky).
The Nebraska Masonic Home
7
MASONIC-EASTERN STAR HOME FOR CHILDREN
Ron Giesselmann, Executive Director
Kylee’s Story
When Kylee was in grade school, her father, family friend,
and aunt died within a few months of each other. The stress of
these losses weighed heavily on Kylee. She lost her focus in
school and began to misbehave at home.
After seeing her daughter’s decline, Kylee’s mother looked
for help in the community and in-home services. There was no
long-lasting remedy. After a few years, Kylee was frequently
truant, failing most of her classes, and still not following family
rules. “She was failing everything,” her mother remembered. It
was time to look for services outside the community.
Kylee’s mother and older sister researched the Home’s
website and liked what they saw. It should be noted that our
Grand Master, Tom Hauder, designed this website. Kylee’s
mother remembered driving through Fremont, on the way to
taking her children to church camp, and seeing the Home’s
sign at the intersection of Business Highway 30 and Highway
77. Little did she know that her daughter would be living at the
Home a few years later.
On March 9, 2012, Kylee moved into the Home. “At first I
thought – what have I gotten myself into? I was very sad and
homesick,” Kylee remembers about her first day at the Home.
Her houseparents helped her and made her feel welcome. They
The girls in Veazie Cottage celebrated
Memorial Day with a new flag.
8
also communicated with Kylee’s mother, which helped Kylee’s
mother adjust.
It wasn’t long before Kylee was reminding some of the other
children to be nice to each other. “She’s always concerned with
how people treat each other. She’s awesome!” Her houseparent,
Holly, is quick to reply when asked about Kylee. “The Home
helped me open up and let my true upbeat personality shine
through. I soon became very social,” Kylee said.
Kylee’s personality, hard work, and concern for social
harmony naturally increased her trust level at the Home. With
this trust, Kylee was permitted to join the high school’s swim
team. Everyone pitched in to help Kylee get to early morning practices. A few of the other girls made sure that she was
awake on time and the Home’s staff took turns giving her a
ride to practice.
Three months after moving in, Kylee called her mom and
thanked her for placing her in the Home. Her mother stated
that moving Kylee to the Home, “has been a blessing.”
After a successful swim season Kylee joined the high
school’s soccer team, which consisted of more of the same
practice regiment, as the swim team’s schedule. Her grades
in the classroom are all above average and she enjoys German
class and playing her violin in the high school orchestra.
Kylee attained and maintained the goals that she set when
she moved into the Home. Kylee’s houseparent, Jacci, says that
Kylee really cares about other people and that she is a positive
leader. Wounds caused by the loss of loved ones have started to
heal. Kylee and her mother have mended bridges. Her mother
has completed college and attained a job. All arrows point to
Kylee moving home with her family at the end of summer. She
wants to complete the 4-H season.
“I’m thankful for my experiences here at the Home,” Kylee
exclaimed when asked about her time at the Home. She also
talked about happy memories of her new friends, great grades
in school, and taking pride in what she does.
Kylee’s mother plans to keep her busy with school, sports,
church, and 4-H. She is grateful to those who support the Home
and those who work at the Home. Her concluding comments,
“Thank you. I couldn’t have asked for more. It’s been a miracle.”
Kylee is an example of a child who has benefited from the
Home. The support of the Masonic bodies is greatly appreciated.
The graduating class of 2013.
The boys enjoyed attending summer camp.
Masonic-Eastern Star Home for Children
GRAND CHAPTER OF NEBRASKA, ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR
Beverly Donham, Worthy Grand Matron and Jim Dusch, Worthy Grand Patron
What a great Star CELEBRATION we
enjoyed at our Grand Chapter Session
this past May and throughout the “Spirit
of the Star” Grand Year! We join with
our 2012-2013 Grand Officers and their
Companions in extending our heartfelt
THANKS to our Nebraska Masonic family for the support, encouragement, love
and dedication that was shown to us. It
was truly a memorable journey serving
with you and for you that made it all most
enjoyable and certainly worthwhile. We
CELEBRATE you all and feel blessed
that we are all a part of this wonderful
Nebraska Masonic Family!!!
Our fraternal friendship and thankfulness ~ Judy Wehrbein, Past Grand Matron and Alvin Benemerito, Past Grand
Patron.
Newest Imhoff Award
Recipient
The newest Imhoff Award recipient for Martha Washington Chapter #153 is Frances Packett.
Frances was initiated in Martha Washington on
December 21, 1944 and has maintained her membership in the same chapter for 69 years.
On April 27, 2013, the award was presented
to her by Betty Kirby, Worthy Matron, and John
Kirby, Worthy Patron, at a party room in Lincoln.
Besides several chapter members who were in attendance, she was feted by her daughters and many
family members, including her great-grandson.
A beautiful cake, complete with the Eastern Star
emblem, was shared by all in attendance. Several
pictures of Frances in her Eastern Star finery were
displayed by her family. Frances has always been
a loyal supporter of Martha Washington Chapter
and its Kensington.
Order of the Eastern Star
9
INTERNATIONAL ORDER OF THE
RAINBOW FOR GIRLS
Betty Garwood, Supreme Deputy
Meet the new Grand Worthy Advisor for 2013-2014. Miss
Shelby Lynne Walsh of South Sioux City is a member of Lynn
Broyhill Assembly No. 12. During her installation, Shelby
said, “My theme for the year is Keep Holding On. This theme
is to go along with the major service project that I have chosen–Shriners Hospitals for Children. All the children there
need someone to help them keep holding on and to give them
some courage. This is why my mascot is a monkey. Monkeys
hold on tight to the trees and just keep climbing. The symbol
I have chosen is a lion because the lion represents the courage
it takes to hold on. The colors for the year are red, orange
and yellow–the first three colors of the Rainbow. The flower,
a single orange rose, means ‘I am proud of you’. I am proud
of every Rainbow girl in Nebraska, the past that we have had
and the future we are creating. This is why it is important to
me to gain positive growth in Nebraska Rainbow. My motto
is quoted from Anatole France: ‘To accomplish great things
we must not only act, but also dream; not only plan, but also
believe.’ I would like to continue to work on Masonic Unity, not
only with Job’s Daughters and DeMolay, but with Eastern Star,
Masonic lodges, York Rite, Scottish Rite, Daughters of the Nile
and Shriners. Through these organizations we get support and
they are always there to lend a helping hand. I am so excited
for this year to begin and to embark on this awesome journey.”
As a new year starts, the old year concludes and Jr. Past
Grand Worthy Advisor Sami Voshell says of her year: “Wow!
What an incredible journey this has been. I cannot believe that a
journey I started 14 years ago when I became a Rainbow Pledge
has now come full circle. Rainbow has given me the opportunity to grow as
a young woman,
and to see my sisters grow along
with me. I am so
thankful for all of
the help and support extended to
me by the Masonic family these
past few years.
Your work does
not go unnoticed.
This past year
as Grand Worthy Advisor has
given me the opportunity to not
only serve my
Rainbow family,
but to also get to know many of you, and the organizations you
represent, and for that I am eternally grateful.”
These two outstanding young women remind us every day
that “Rainbow Gets Girls Ready for Life!”
Remarks by Shelby Walsh GWA and Sami Voshell PGWA
10
NEBRASKA DEMOLAY
Michael W. Stuhr, Executive Director
Greetings from Nebraska DeMolay!!!!
DeMolays, Sweethearts, and Advisors from all over the State
of Nebraska descended on Kearney the weekend of April 13-14,
2013 for Spring Roundup – an event filled with fun, food and
brotherhood. Roundup is our annual Sports Weekend and is
jam-packed with inter-chapter competition in Sand Volleyball,
Billiards, Bowling, Mini-Golf, Soccer, and Basketball. There
was also plenty of time for video games, Go-Karting, swimming, and waterslides. The weekend concluded with a full form
statewide initiation and we were pleased to welcome several
new brothers into our ranks.
Summer is just around the corner and by the time this article
is published, Shrine Bowl 2013 will be history. We’re looking
forward to seeing the new venue in Kearney. We particularly
want to thank the Shriners from all Shrine Centers in Nebraska
for hosting a wonderful day of fun for all DeMolays, Rainbows
and Jobies at little or no cost. The only cost associated with
the day is getting to Kearney. The annual Masonic Youth
Reunion that is sponsored in conjunction with Shrine Bowl is
unprecedented. Where else can you march in parade, have a
hotdog lunch, see a football game, and dance away the night
with all the pizza you can eat? The price of admission is free
but the memories are priceless. THANK YOU SHRINE MASONS!!!
The DeMolay State Officers, Supreme Council Members and
I will be departing for Minneapolis, Minnesota on June 11, 2013
to represent Nebraska at the Annual Session of the International
Supreme Council and International DeMolay Congress. This
is always a wonderful event, as we are able to experience the
truly “international” part of our organization. We will be able
to interact with DeMolays from Canada, Brazil, Australia, Italy,
Romania, and Germany in addition to DeMolays from all of
the United States.
Plans are rapidly being finalized for Conclave 2013 which
will take place in Sidney, Nebraska on July 19-21, 2013. Conclave is the annual Nebraska DeMolay business meeting where
new State Officers are elected and a new State Sweetheart is
crowned. Fun events include the Sweetheart Extravaganza,
Swimming, Bowling, and of course, the annual Sweetheart Ball.
For information on joining the Greatest Youth Fraternity
in the world or information on starting a DeMolay chapter in
your community, please contact Executive Officer Mike Stuhr
at [email protected].
In closing, please accept Nebraska DeMolay’s wishes for
a fun, safe summer!
Nebraska Masonic Youth Groups
Nebraska Job’s Daughters
Kaylee Jenkins, Grand Bethel Honored Queen
Jazmine Jirsak, Miss Nebraska Job’s Daughters
Julia Williams, Miss Nebraska Congeniality
Robin Brown, Grand Guardian
Bob Williams, Associate Grand Guardian
Greetings from Nebraska Job’s Daughters! I have some very exciting news that happened at the “Spirit of the Star” Grand Chapter
Session in Kearney on May 15. All three of our youth leaders were
initiated into Eastern Star along with our Associate Grand Guardian,
Bob. The three youth predecessors from the “Fun & Friendship Take
Flight” 2011-12 Grand Year were also initiated the same evening.
Now tell me just how awesome is that! What an honor for these initiates to join the Order of the Eastern Star while our very own Past
Grand Guardian Judy is serving as Grand Worthy Matron and Alvin
as Worthy Grand Patron. It was an awesome feeling as I watched my
“Grand Family” be initiated into a wonderful organization that I can
say that I’m a proud sister of Signet Chapter #55, North Platte. Along
with the three Job’s Daughter Youth Leaders, there were seven young
Job’s Daughter adults: Jenn Jirsak (mother of our Miss Nebraska Job’s
Daughter Jazmine) and Bob Williams who took part in this beautiful
ceremony. The Grand Officers did an excellent job on their ritual
work and it was a solemn and serious ceremony. What a precious
memory during our “Footprints in the Sand” Grand Year.
As our Grand Year comes to a close, we still have several activities
to attend representing Nebraska Job’s Daughters. Shrine Bowl activities in Kearney, Soccer Classic in Hastings, South Dakota’s Grand
Session in Sioux Falls and Grand Assembly for Rainbow for Girls in
Crete. We have a busy schedule representing Nebraska Job’s Daughters until our Grand Session in North Platte which begins June 19th.
“Thank You” for all the wonderful friendships and memories you
have given us this past year. We have truly treasured the kind words
and hospitality that we have been shown as we attended activities
in your cities. Our Nebraska Masonic Family has truly gone above
and beyond what we could have ever imagined. Now that we have
A Successful Community
Service Project
Centennial Lodge No. 326 completed their fifth annual recognition of deceased military veterans by the placing of 4,000
flags in the WestLawn-Hillcrest Cemetery in Omaha. This was
done just before the annual Memorial Day Celebration. Flags
were placed at the headstones of known veterans by the members, families and friends of Centennial Lodge. They were
ably assisted by members of the Omaha Chapter of DeMolay,
Boy Scout Troop #282, Bethels #18 and # 13 of Nebraska and
Bethel #1 of Iowa, a home school group, South High ROTC,
and Nebraska Lodge #1.This monumental task was completed
in two evenings and two days.
Numerous comments were received by people visiting the
cemetery during the placing of flags. We received two donations
toward the replacing of flags. Family members whose loved
one’s headstones were not designated by military symbols or
titles had the choice of submitting the name so it could be added
to the lists, thus expanding the list of those to be recognized.
The flags were the only decoration on many graves as there
apparently are no known relatives in the area.
A total of 182 individuals spent 479 hours completing this
project to recognize those who served our country. One area
of special interest was the Circle of Honor which is designated
for the veterans. The larger flags were used at all headstones
which surround a flag and monument recognizing the various
branches of the military.
This cemetery is over 100 years old and has graves of veterans from the Spanish-American War, WW I, WW II, Korea,
Vietnam, Desert Storm, as well as from the current military
involvements. For some of the youth, this project was a course
expanding their knowledge of history.
This activity was started when W∴B∴ Carl Diamond was
Master and a retired navy veteran as a community service
project. W∴B∴ Phil Edwards has done much of the ground
work with the Cemetery to get names and lists of veterans.
W∴B∴ Diamond and his lady Carolyn developed lists for
some sections, helped to line up help, assign helpers to various
sections and made sure all sections were adequately covered.
As W∴B∴ Diamond remarked, “It sure makes me feel good
to see all those flags recognizing those that have served our
country. It has a tendency to bring a lump in my throat.”
(L-R) Nickki Parks Past Miss Nebraska Congeniality 2011-12, Jennifer
Jirsak Grand Third Messenger, Jazmine Jirsak Miss Nebraska Job’s
Daughter 2012-13, Jennifer Hefner Past Honored Queen, Julia Williams
Miss Nebraska Congeniality 2012-13, Judy Wehrbein Worthy Grand
Matron, Kaylee Jenkins Grand Bethel Honored Queen 2012-13, Alvin
Benemerito Worthy Grand Patron, Alicia VanWesten Past Honored
Queen, Chelsea Niemann, Bob Williams, Amanda Hefner Past Honored
Queen, Lauren Busche Past Grand Bethel Honored Queen 2011-12 and
Ashley Murphy Past Miss Nebraska Job’s Daughter 2011-12.
traveled the state to meet all of you, we are looking forward to our
final journey to Grand Session 2013. We extend a heartfelt invitation
to each and every one of you to attend our “Footprints in the Sand”
Grand Session in North Platte June 19-22 at the Sandhills Convention Center. Grand Session offers an opportunity for the Daughters
to diligently work on their ritual work and demonstrate their abilities
to really shine. This is a session full of friendships, laughs, smiles,
signing competitions, SIWAC, luncheons, meetings, pageants, pic-
Nebraska Masonic Youth Groups
tures, ritual competitions, fun night, installation, formal opening and
many more activities and memories. This is a yearly state event that
we look forward to being able to spend some special time with our
Jobie sisters and adult leaders.
Thank You again for your support and encouragement during the past year. It has been an honor to represent Nebraska Job’s
Daughters and we have made lasting friendships along the way!
11
Year Pin Presentations
50-Year Pins
Frederick A. Atkinson, Lancaster No. 54
Clark G. Beal, John J. Mercer No. 290
Stephen B. Bennett, Arcana No. 195
Francis G. Blumenstock, Cotner No. 297
Frederick W. Briggs, Lancaster No. 54
William Robert Campbell, Covert No. 11
Joseph H. Cooper, Fremont No. 15
Max C. Coppom, Robert W. Furnas No. 265
Jerry A. Ebers, Fremont No. 15
Richard C. Gibson, Euclid Lodge No. 97
Ralph L. Giebelhaus, Craftsmen No. 314
David S. Hagglund, John J. Mercer No. 290
Chester Raymond Harris, Jr., Covert No. 11
R. Douglas Horrocks, Beatrice No. 26
Harold O. Kelsey, Beatrice No. 26
C. Clark Kleinberg, Omadi No. 5
Richard Lund, Wayne No. 120
Sheridan M. Mallot, John J. Mercer No. 290
Arnold R. Marr, Wayne No. 120
John H. Martig, Jr., John J. Mercer No. 290
Duane E. Mau, Geneva No. 79
William D. Meyer, Waterloo No. 102
Donald R. Miller, Geneva No. 79
Donald L. Morgan, McCook No. 135
William F. O’Brien, John J. Mercer No. 290
James R. Owens, Euclid Lodge No. 97
Norval W. Papke, Highland No. 194
Eugene Rieck, Waterloo No. 102
Clyde V. Rhoadramer, Thistle Lodge No. 61
Ronald R. Ruh, Covert No. 11
John Sherman, Jr., Fremont No. 15
Edwin W. Sievers, Robert W. Furnas No. 265
Clayton C. Tallon, Arcana No. 195
Daniel Tepley, Jr., Fremont No. 15
Vernon H. Wood, Jr., John J. Mercer No. 290
60-Year Pins
BRONZE JORDAN
MEDAL HOLDERS
Stephen A. Barker, Covert No. 11
Lowell V. Lape was presented the
Harley W. Batie, Thistle Lodge No. 61
Bronze Jordan Medal for Western Star
Royce J. Blust, Crete No. 37
Lodge No. 2, Nebraska City, on March
Edwin W. Bruere, John J. Mercer No. 290 10, 2013. The presentation was made at
Jack L. Bryan, McCook No. 135
the Nebraska Masonic Home by W.M.
Dale G. Buchta, Osceola Lodge No. 65
Edward Reed. Brother Lape’s daughter
Ted C. Cannon, Robert W. Furnas No. 265 Cheryl was present as well as several
Gene R. Chase, Robert W. Furnas No. 265 residents of the Masonic Home in adDean M. Connett, Beatrice No. 26
dition to Western Star Lodge members
Ted C. Cannon, Robert W. Furnas No. 265 present.
John A. Curtiss, Geneva No. 79
Lloyd L. Hardesty was presented
Paul L. DeGraff, John J. Mercer No. 290 the Bronze Jordan Medal for Thistle
Dwaine L. Fagler, Cotner No. 297
Lodge No. 61, Lexington, on March 9,
Blaine A. Farrar, McCook No. 135
2013. The presentation was made at the
Wayne A. Farrar, McCook No. 135
Plum Creek Care Center by W.M. Kent
Dewey G. Foster, Jr., Lancaster No. 54
J. Fischer. Brother Hardesty’s daughter
Jack A. Frost, John J. Mercer No. 290
Lynnee McDonald was present as well
Charles W. Fultz, John J. Mercer No. 290 as several members of Thistle Lodge.
Marshall D. Grant, McCook No. 135
Richard E. Hovendick, Beatrice No. 26
Jerald A. Keen, Ashlar No. 33
Elwood W. Klintworth, Fremont No. 15
Irl R. Lautenschlager, Lancaster No. 54
Robert L. Mayne, Covert No. 11
Richard C. McCoy, Sr., Covert No. 11
Dale J. McCracken, Craftsmen No. 314
Edward C. Miller, Jr., John J. Mercer No. 290
Spiro Moustakes, Covert No. 11
Carl E. Parmenter, John J. Mercer No. 290
David A. Portwood, Geneva No. 79
George L. Rainbolt, McCook No. 135
Charles H. Roper, Craftsmen No. 314
Robert F. Ross, McCook No. 135
Heinz W. Sievers, Covert No. 11
William M. Skelton, Craftsmen No. 314
Jerald E. Smith, Ashlar No. 33
Clifford A. Spratlen, Jr., McCook No. 135
Gerald D. Stanley, Laurel Lodge No. 248
Edward R. Sternad, John J. Mercer No. 290 Lowell V. Lape pictured with his daughter,
Alfred Stroh, Jr., Hooper No. 72
Cheryl.
Burdell S. Thurston, McCook No. 135
Dean S. Tilton, Cement No. 211
Richard Neal Walker, McCook No. 135
Herman A. Wiebers, Lancaster No. 54
Kenneth R. Williamson, R. W. Furnas No. 265
Louis A. Worm, Covert No. 11
70-Year Pins
Robert C. Baskin, Custer Lodge 148
Kenneth L. Gaiser, Florence No. 281
Robert C. Baskin – 93 years young; after
an extensive search for a correct mailing
address, Bob’s 70-year certificate, card and
pin was sent from Custer Lodge No. 148, to
his daughter, Jane’s address in Kansas City,
MO. She presented the certificate to Bob at
his apartment. Robert is a 2003 recipient of the
Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award.
Members of Euclid Lodge No. 97 receive 50Photo by Jane McCall.
year membership awards.
12
At the lodge meeting in March, W.M. Larry
Burgess presented a 50-year membership
award to Norval Papke of Highland Lodge
No. 194 in Cortland.
Arcana Lodge Members Travel to Present Award
Members of Arcana
Lodge No. 195 in
Gordon traveled
to Pioneer Manor
Nursing Home in
Hay Springs to
present Myron
Jacobson with his
50-year pin for
his dedication to
Masonry and Arcana
Lodge No. 195.
Members present
from left to right are Rick Borie Jr, Vernon Platte, Bill Conway, Michael Russell, Rick Schneider,
Jim Smith, George Meng, Les Evert, Clyde Lefler, Win Saults, Luke Rawles, Gary Fuchser,
Ron Jensen and center Myron Jacobson. Myron’s family also joined him for this special event.
As All Masons Have Done Before Me
50-Year Members Honored by
Deputy Grand Master
Brothers Clayton Tallon (front second from
left) and Stephen Bennett (front Center),
members of Arcana Lodge No. 195 in
Gordon were presented with 50-year pins
by Deputy Grand Master (left front) Joe D.
McBride and officers of the lodge.
By Dennis Rix, Grand Junior Warden
Today I had the privilege of helping
four men go from approaching the Altar
of Masonry to the sublime degree of a
Master Mason. It was no doubt a bit overwhelming and yet exciting and ultimately
profoundly fulfilling to become a member
of the greatest and oldest fraternity on our
planet. We can only wonder what these
men were truly thinking and feeling.
I know that each of the men in all of
the ritual work performed and all of the
lectures given today did the best job they
could. As with all things in life, some
did better at it than others. Some missed
a word or two, some added a word or two
and some, such as the middle chamber lecturer was the best I have ever heard. But
each of these men felt the satisfaction that
comes from knowing they did their best.
And each of them secretly felt they could
have done it a little better. Next time.
Every man has his reasons for becoming a Mason. The reasons are as varied as
the men that we all call our Brothers. One
of the candidates, when given a chance to
speak today said that his grandfather was
a Mason, his father was a Mason, and he
has always wanted to be a Mason. All
of them, of their own free will and accord have joined us. Each of them had a
man that spent the day with them, helped
them with the modes of recognition, and
pledged to be their mentor and friend helping lead them into the life that we know
is Masonry. That is the secret that makes
our fraternity what it is.
Each of us have taken the obligations
while in due form, just as all Masons
have done before us. Today I watched as
one candidate in particular was in obvi-
ous discomfort while in that due form.
But even in his obvious discomfort he
continued on. It meant that much to
him. I couldn’t help but think back to
my childhood when my Dad, a farmer,
would tend the incubator we used to
hatch ducks and geese. Each egg was
wet and carefully turned everyday,
because that is what the goose would
do if she were tending the eggs. When
the time came for that gosling to hatch,
you could watch them peck their way
out of the egg that had been their world.
They would struggle and strain to free
themselves, eventually entering into
their new world, leaving the old behind
forever. We found out the hard way that
each gosling had to endure the struggle
in order to emerge strong and ready for
his start in the new world. If you feel
sorry for them and help too much with
the shell, they will emerge crippled. It
may be a crooked leg or a wing that
won’t fold. Whatever the deformity,
that gosling will grow to be a goose or
gander with that deformity for the rest
of it’s life. I don’t know why, but that
is the way it is.
Today we welcomed four more
brothers into our world. They are no
doubt at home thinking they could never
do the kind of memory work they saw
demonstrated today. And yet each of
them would like to be able to, even a
little bit. Just to know how it feels. Or
to watch the wonder in a candidate’s
eyes while you are revealing the world
of Masonry. As many reasons as there
are Masons. But we can’t break their
shells for them. That is cruel. But each
Grand Senior Warden John Maxell and Past
Grand Master John Parsons presented a
courtesy 50-year membership award to Ed
Ticknor, a member of Silver State Lodge No.
95 in Pueblo, CO. Brother Ed lives in Omaha
and is an active member of the Scottish Rite.
Frank Wooden, Worshipful Master, and Ken
Greenwood, Senior Deacon (right), of Robert
W. Furnas Lodge No. 265 (left), presented
Brother Ted Cannon (center) with a 60-year
membership pin.
of them has a mentor. A mentor to be there
to watch as they break away the old shell
and emerge into a new world. Emerging
into a dynamic world as diverse as the men
we call brothers, and yet always staying
the same. They will each in their own
time struggle with learning the ritual. And
when they do they will know that profound
satisfaction that comes with knowing that
they have made their mentor proud. As all
Masons have done before them.
13
CHIP Offers Linked24 Phone App MASONIC RELIEF COMMITEE
Since 2004, the CHIP program has been helping families
by providing them with information kits that can be used if the
unthinkable happens and their child goes missing. Now, CHIP
is taking the next step in whole family protection and safety by
offering the Linked24 service.
The world today has become a much more dangerous place.
Children are exposed to bullying, sexting, inappropriate images…it seems to be endless. The statistics are truly frightening
1 in 5 children have been bullied
1 in 4 teens have sexted
20% of all teens have sent or received nude photos
46% of all teens admit to texting and driving
As a parent, you can now provide your family with tools to
deal with these issues by turning your smart phone into a safety
and security device with the Linked24 app.
What is Linked24?
Linked24 is a combination of an app for your smart phone
and a private Internet based dashboard that you use to customize, monitor, track and control security for each phone. The
Linked24 app provides the following features:
• ProActive GPS – Know when a family member does not
arrive on time at a location. Track phone location at any
time.
• Emergency Shake – Shake or drop the phone with the
app active and upload a 10 sec. video to your dashboard.
A notification e mail is also sent
• Inappropriate texts – Be notified and capture any text sent
or received with inappropriate language
• Inappropriate pictures – Captures all photos sent or received
• Driving while texting – Be notified if the phone is texting
while driving or outside of set time limit
• Manual Record – Record up to 2 minutes of video that is
automatically uploaded to your dashboard
These tools will help you to prevent or respond quickly to
bullying, kidnapping, or emergency events and will also help
you to monitor and set limits on texting habits. By installing
this app on your family’s phones, you can provide them with
protection 24/7 anywhere in the U.S. Linked24 is available to
anyone in the U.S. and can be easily shared through the app.
CHIP and Linked24…a win-win partnership
By signing up for the Linked24 service for your family, for
only pennies a day you are providing a new and better level of
safety and security for your family and you are also supporting the CHIP program. All proceeds from the sale of Linked24
service will go to supporting the CHIP program! And as the
CHIP Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization, the service fee you
are paying for Linked24 may be tax deductible (check with your
tax professional). You get great security, CHIP gets greatly
needed funds…everybody wins!
To find out more about this service and to sign up, go to
www.NECHIP.org today!
14
One of the goals of the Masonic Relief Committee this year
was to put together an outline and request form for Lodges
requesting relief for a Brother. The information below should
help the Lodges understand the process for applying for Relief
and the Lodge’s responsibilities in the process.
The purpose of the Grand Lodge of Nebraska Masonic Relief
Committee is to assist, help or aid a Mason in good standing
or a member of his family, which would include his Mother,
Father, Wife, Daughter and Son when in need. All requests by
a Mason for relief must come from the Brother’s local Lodge.
The Brother’s Blue Lodge should make every effort to help
their Brother who is in distress and should not be limited by
special funds from the Lodge or by fund raisers.
All applications must be submitted to the Relief Committee
in writing. All written requests must include applicant name,
Blue Lodge, date, reason for request, and amount of the request.
Also, if relief by the Brother’s Lodge was declined and if restitution is to be made to Grand Lodge. An application can only be
approved with the consent of two members of the Relief Committee or the Grand Master and one member of the committee.
It shall be the duty of the Relief Committee to make a thorough investigation of each and every application. An application
can be declined without cause by the committee and can only
be overturned by the Grand Master or Deputy Grand Master.
Any fund raiser to finance an application request either on state
level or by a Brother’s Lodge must be pre-approved either by
the Grand Master or Deputy Grand Master.
Any application that does not follow the guidelines set forth
by this framework may be rejected.
An application form can be found on the Grand Lodge
website and look for the Non-Green Bean fund raiser this fall.
Centennial Lodge No. 326
presents Masonic Scholarship
W∴B∴ Dave Heck, Worshipful Master of Centennial Lodge
No. 326 presented Mason Lindbloom with the Masonic Scholarship at the May business meeting. He is the son of Charles
Lindbloom and
Penny Ashenbrenner. Present
were his mother
and friends, as
well as several
members of Centennial Lodge.
Mason plans on
attending Hastings College with
a major in education and religious
studies.
Mason graduated from Concordia High School in Omaha, NE. Mason’s
grandfather was present at his graduation party and revealed
that he has been a Mason for 47 years and is a Past Master of
a Lodge in Pennsylvania.
Lebanon Lodge No. 323 Cleans Up!
Masons of Lebanon Lodge 323 in Columbus cleaned up a
stretch of Highway 22 near Monroe on a cold blustery morning April 20 and collected
many bags of litter that
accumulated during the
past winter. The Lodge
cleans the segment of
road twice yearly under
an agreement with the
Nebraska Department of
Roads. Left to right are
Terry Hoeman, Braydon
Kopejtka, Terry Norris,
Stan Fraser, Worshipful
Master Bob Wilbur, Rick Porter, B. J. Boyer, Dave Geringer
and John Hahn. (Photo by Wayne Jacobsen)
Florence Lodge Marches in Parade
On May 10, members of Florence Lodge No. 281 in Omaha
walked in the Florence Days parade. This is the second year in
a row that members have turned out in suits, white aprons and
gloves, and jewels at the parade. “Florence has been the historic
home of Florence Lodge No. 281, and we want to create a visible
presence in our home community for Masonry and to celebrate
the 100th anniversary of our Lodge,” said W.B. David Rose,
Worshipful Master. Florence Lodge was chartered in June, 1913,
and moved to the Benson Masonic Center in 2005.
“We may have lost our old Lodge, but we haven’t forgotten
our roots,” said David. The original Florence Lodge building
was built in 1912 as the Florence Telephone Exchange building.
The Lodge purchased the building in 1913, and expanded it in
1921 at a cost of $20,000. Grand Lodge laid the cornerstone for
the building in 1921, and it was completed in 1922. David Rose
and Merl Core have been working with the current owner of
the original Lodge building (who is also a Brother) to retrieve
the cornerstone and any items deposited in it during the 1921
ceremony. Grand Lodge rededicated the Lodge as part of the
Centennial celebration on June 8, 2013 at the Benson Masonic
Center (5903 Maple Street).
Approximately 10 members of the Lodge marched in the
parade, with two bearing a large banner with the Lodge name and
florencelodge.com website. Others passed out frisbees and soda
koozies also bearing the Lodge name and website, while W.B.
Merl Core drove a truck and the Grand Lodge trailer. After the
parade, David Rose presented the Lodge’s Centennial challenge
coin to Florence Days Marshall, football legend Johnny “the Jet”
Rodgers and Mayor Jim Suttle (pictured below).
“My Father’s Working Tools”
At the silent auction at the 2013 Annual Communication,
Past Grand Master
Mike and Joanie
Jones purchased
the oil painting entitled “My Father’s
Working Tools,”
painted and donated by Carolyn
S. Plants. As a token of their friendship throughout
the years, Mike and
Joanie presented the painting as a gift to their long-time
friends from Pennsylvania, Past Grand Master Ron Aungst and
his wife Norma. Unframed canvas board copies of the print
(canvas mounted on chipboard) can be purchased for $40 or
a mounted canvas copy (canvas on standard stretcher bars)
can be purchased for $55. Anyone interested, can contact
the artist directly at 402-477-9464 or by email at cplants@
inebraska.com.
WA R D E N S & D E A C O N S
LEADERSHIP SCHOOL
It’s already July and the year is more than half over.
Soon Lodges will be holding elections for their 2014 officers. The Wardens are starting to wonder what they have
gotten themselves
into; they say “I’m
not ready for this, and
I have no idea what
I’m going to do.”
If this sounds like
you or if you have
a plan for your year
but don’t know how
to put in place, don’t
worry. The Grand
Lodge office is going
to hold a Leadership Class on Saturday, October 5, at the
new Grand Lodge office in Lincoln.
The class will teach Masters and future Masters how to
run business meetings, put together a budget, a calendar,
organizing committees and how to run them, and much
much more. If you are interested in attending the class, we
ask that you call the Grand Lodge office (402-475-4640)
or email Michelle at the Grand Lodge office to register
([email protected]). Hope to see you there!
A little secret…we will be offering this class in the
western part of the state sometime in the fall – watch for
details.
15
The Nebraska Mason is produced
quarterly and distributed to more
than 23,000 members of the Masonic
Family. Copy for articles is due at the
Grand Lodge Office on or before the
following dates. Articles received
after these deadlines will be held for
possible inclusion in future issues:
September 1, 2013
December 1, 2013
March 1, 2014
June 1, 2014
Send articles to:
The Nebraska Mason
Office of the Grand Lodge
301 N Cotner Blvd
Lincoln, NE 68505-2315
(402) 475-4640
or
(800) 558-8029
Fax: (402) 475-4736
E-mail: [email protected]
THE NEBRASKA MASON
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE
GRAND LODGE A∴F∴ & A∴M∴ OF NEBRASKA
301 N COTNER BOULEVARD
LINCOLN, NE 68505-2315
MOVING? Please cut off the top of this
page including your old address at the right
and mail to the above address after filling in
the NEW address shown below.
New Address _______________________
City ______________________________
State ______________Zip ____________
Produced, edited, and proofed by Quinn
Knudsen, Michelle Fulmer and Carol
Schroeder
Dedicated Long-time
Employee to Retire
Carol Schroeder has been a very
dedicated employee of the Grand
Lodge of Nebraska for over 20 years.
Carol will retire on June 30th from her
full-time duties, but will continue to
work for the Grand Lodge on a parttime basis to enter the old membership
cards into the database. The Grand
Lodge Officers, Past Grand Masters and
Lodge Secretaries who have worked
with Carol since she started in October
of 1992 are very appreciative of her loyalty and service,
and we all wish her well in her retirement.
Taking over for Carol will be Quinn
Knudsen. Quinn attended the Masonic
Band camp in high school, served as a
junior band assistant, and for the past
two years, served as the band assistant
leader for the Masonic Band. Quinn has
a background in graphic design and will
be adding some marketing duties to the
position, along with working with the
secretaries and taking over Carol’s responsibilities. Quinn is married to Heidi
and they are the proud parents of almost-two-year-old
Fiona. Quinn started the beginning of April and has been
learning all he can to try to fill the very large void that will
be left when Carol retires. Please help us welcome Quinn
to the Grand Lodge office.
16
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U.S. Postage
PAID
Lincoln, NE
Permit No. 1066
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
GRAND LODGE CALENDAR OF EVENTS
July 4
July 6
July 27
Aug 10
Frank Welch Lodge 75 Golf Tournament, Sidney
CHIP Event, St. Paul
CHIP Event, Tri Valley Health, Callaway
4-H Achievement Day, Masonic-Eastern Star
Home for Children, Fremont
Aug 11
Cornerstone, Nebraska Masonic Home, Plattsmouth
Aug 11
CHIP Event, Tangier Kids Carnival
Aug 23-25 CHIP Event, Nebraska State Fair
Sept 9
Masonic Charities Golf Tournament, North Bend
Oct 5
Wardens & Deacons School, Grand Lodge Office,
Lincoln
Oct 28
Masonic Education Symposium, Lincoln
Oct 29
Masonic Education Symposium, Omaha
Oct 29
Masonic Education Symposium, Hastings
Lancaster 54 Helps Hats for Homeless
W ∴B∴ Keith Attebery of
Lancaster Lodge No. 54
learned of a selfless project
being undertaken by Jodi
Wilbur while he was watching
a segment of “Lance’s Journal”
on KOLN/KGIN one evening.
Jodi, who is employed at the
Centrum Parking Garage at
11th & N St., knits hats, scarves,
mittens and lap blankets for the
homeless in Lincoln.
W ∴B ∴ K e i t h a s k e d t h e
support of the Lodge to help
Jodi purchase yarn and other
supplies so this project could
grow and continue. The Lodge
donated $200.00 to Jodi’s project and she has put the funds to good use
by purchasing yarn, crochet hooks, knitting needles and storage tubs.
Her goal for this year is 500 items. Good luck Jodi, and thanks
W∴B∴Keith.