DECEMBER2009 THEMASONICNEWS PAGE�

COME TO THE ALL-CITYCHRISTMAS PARTY

1635 “L” STREETSunday, December 13

5:00 p.m. Covered DishBringadishtoshareandyourowntableware

HelpdecorateourTree!!Christmas Music, Carol Sing, and Festive Decorations

Holiday Fellowship, Visit by Santa and his Elves

In This Issue:

Assemby 6 attends Mini Grand

Page 1

College View hassoup supper

Page 1

Hickman Lodge brings in 7 at one-day

Page 2

Cotner Lodge adopts-a-highway

Page 2

ObligationPage 2

“The Word of 54”Page 3

Lincoln Lodge is proficient for 75 years

Page 3

Liberty Lodge presents 2 bibles

Page 3

Bennet Lodge elects new officers

Page 3

Electa KensingtonPage 3

North Star LodgePage 4

East Lincoln Lodge reads 3 petitions

Page 4

Starcraft Chapter supports WUP

Page 4

Myrtle Chapter plays guessing game

Page 4

Temple Chapter initiates 4

Page 5

M. Washington and G. Washington forming

Temple BoardPage 5

Walter BrueningPage 5

Bethel 63 and Bethel 60Page 6

General Grand ChapterPage 7

Bethel 27Page 8

www.MasonicNews.org

NEXT MASONIC NEWS BOARD

MEETING:FEB. 28

7:00 pm, 1635 L St

December 2009P.O. Box 82304

Lincoln, NE 68501-2304

Lincoln Assembly 6Lorrie Bryant, Correspondent

MINI GRAND

The past two months have been busy for the members of Lincoln Assembly 6. October included a fun meeting with pumpkin decorating by members and pledges. On Nov. 7, several Assembly members and adults traveled to York for Mini Grand. It was fun to get together with other Rainbow Girls from around the state for recreation and information. Activities included break out sessions related to safety, both personal and Internet. The program for the weekend also included the contribution of pajamas and books for Grand Worthy Advisor Amber Naylor’s project. Donations to the Nebraska Chapter of the Pajama Program included 83 pairs of pajamas and over 1,500 children’s books. The co-presidents of the Nebraska Chapter gave a presentation at Mini Grand and accepted the donation, indicating it was the largest donation they had received to date. The Pajama Program provides new, warm pajamas, and new books to children in need in the United States and around the world. Many of these children are waiting and hoping to be adopted. This program

has been featured on several national television programs.

COLOR TEAM

Three members of Lincoln Assembly participated in the Grand Cross of Color Degree Ceremony exemplification, Mystic Banquet, and Bread Breaking Ceremony on Nov. 15 at Westside Assembly 22. Allison Burris, Nicki Folsom, and Jessica Rodriguez served as Grand Keeper of the Door, Assistant Grand Keeper of the Door, and Crown Bearer, respectively.

COMING EVENTS

Lincoln Assembly and Nebraska Rainbow are looking forward to many exciting events in the coming months. First the 2010 Grand Assembly will be held June 11 to 13 in Crete. Nebraska is thrilled that SUPREME ASSEMBLY 2010’s Believe Session will be held in Omaha from July 27 to Aug. 4. Nebraska Grand Assembly anticipates needing 200 volunteers to assist with all of the preparations, activities, and sessions. Any Masonic family member having a desire to serve or share their talents is encouraged to contact Grand Executive Board Secretary Laurie Sieg (ks33902@windstream.net or 464-2410).

Lincoln Assembly mem-bers and prospects take a break from all of the Mini Grand activities to pose for a photograph. They are joined by Alicia Jordan, Grand Represen-tative to Nebraska from Kansas. Photo courtesy of Brianna Lyons

Lincoln Assembly mem-bers and pledges enjoyed carving pumpkins at their Oct. 27 meeting. Photo courtesy of Lorrie Bryant

ABreakfrom

Tradition Wade Kendle, Editor

For the first time in over 40 years, the three Masonic Lodges at 1635 L Street, Lincoln Lodge 19, Lancaster Lodge 54, and Liberty Lodge 300, will not be having a joint installation of officers in 2010. I’ve been told various things about who instigated this break from tradition. All I can report for sure is it lies somewhere in Lincoln Lodge 19 and Lancaster Lodge 54. Liberty Lodge 300 would prefer to keep it joint. This editor hopes that the tradition returns in 2011.

KASSEBAUM TO LEAD IN 2010

At the Nov. 4 regular communication, College View 320 brethren elected W.B. Gary Kassebaum to serve as Master of the Lodge in 2010.

Other elected off icers include: W.B. Robert Brommer, Senior Warden; Jairo Cabieles, Junior Warden; Dr. Richard Brommer, Treasurer; and W.B. Douglas Johnson, Secretary.

Appointments have been accepted by Byron Van Patten to serve as Senior Deacon; Ryan Starmer as Junior Deacon; James Moles as Senior Steward; and W.B. Nate Peterson as Tyler.

Congratulations, Brothers! An installation ceremony is being planned; watch for more details.

SUPPER WAS SOUPER

Our Nov. 14 Soup Supper raised spirits and funds as Brothers, their families and friends gathered in the Brown Fellowship Hall to enjoy homemade soups as well as pies and other desserts.

It has been suggested that, as in past years, $100 gifts from the evening’s donations be sent to the Masonic-Eastern Star Home for Children in Fremont and to the Omaha Home for Boys to help brighten the holidays of the children living there.

Thanks to all who attended this special time of fellowship and for supporting these worthy causes.

OLSON AND BERCK TO REACH FELLOW CRAFT

Brethren are urged to attend a special communication Wed., Dec. 9, to confer the Fellow Craft degree upon Brothers Luke Olson and Ben Berck. Additional details will be announced as final plans are made.

JUST BEING NEIGHBORLY

W.B. Douglas Johnson represented the Lodge at a recent meeting of the College View Neighborhood Association, held at the local branch of Union Bank. The group discussed next summer’s temporary closing of 48th Street -- crews will make street improvements in the community that includes our facility at 4641 Cooper Ave. The work will improve traffic flow, replace water lines and street lights, put utility lines underground, install new traffic signals and include landscaping.

The brethren authorized payment of a $25 membership fee so that we will have a continuing voice in Neighborhood Association issues. The organization will next meet in January.

On another note related to community service, more than 20 members of the groups that meet at our Lodge building have committed to donating blood during this fall’s Blood Drive events.

The next regular meeting of College View 320 will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Wed., Dec. 2.

College View Lodge 320Paul J. Hadley, Correspondent

Tasty soups and desserts brought smiles to the faces of these brethren! Richard Brommer, left, Gary Kassebaum, James Moles, Jason Phelps, Jairo Cabieles, Byron Van Patten and Nate Peterson were among those who prepared and served the tasty Soup Supper. Photo courtesy of Paul Hadley

PAGE2 THEMASONICNEWS DECEMBER2009

THE MASONIC NEWSUSPS-332-880

Vol. 101 December, 2009 No. 12PUBLISHED MONTHLY - LINCOLN, NEBRASKA

BY MASONIC NEWS INC., 1635 "L" St. 68508

Wade Kendle, EditorBeth Benson, Business ManagerSubscription Rates $6.00 Year

SEND ALL CORRESPONDENCE TO:Masonic news P.O. Box 82304 Lincoln, Nebraska 68501

News/Editorial/Mailing List Attn: Wade Kendle or via E-Mail to: MasonicNews@gmail.comAdvertising/Subscription Attn: Beth Benson

Periodicals postage paid at Lincoln, NebraskaPOSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Masonic news, P.O. Box 82304, Lincoln, NE 68501

The Masonic News has been publishing news of the Lincoln Masonic Community since 1921.

ALL ALUMINUMWINDOW CO.

Wilbert Swartz, Manager1101 No. 30th (30th & “Y” St.) 476-1118ELECTRIC MOTOR SERVICE

Authorized Factory ServiceRebuilding ˜ Rewinding ˜ Repairing

New & Used Motors476-2121 - 520 West “O” Street

Bob Jr. & Ron

Hickman Lodge 256Jeff Eggerling, Correspondent

Many people will soon celebrate Veteran’s Day and Thanksgiving. We all have many things we are thankful for. So when you sit down to spend time and have that special meal with family and friends. Remember the many men and women serving in our armed forces around the world.

ONE-DAY CEREMONIAL

Hickman lodge hosted a one-day ceremonial on Sat., Oct. 31. That’s right, Halloween. There were seven new brothers: Lonnie Rech, Chad Lawrenz, Fred Bernt, Matt Farris, Shane Dunn, Gary Chubbuck, and James Williamsen who went through the degrees of Masonry. Thank you to all the brothers who came out and helped with the one-day ceremonial.

NOVEMBER BUSINESS MEETING

Hickman lodge held their monthly business meeting on Nov. 5. During the meeting we had four new brothers come to the lodge for the first time and proved up as Master Masons. The brethren present welcomed brothers’ Lonnie Rech, Shane Dunn, James Williamsen, and Fred Bernt into the lodge. Also during our meeting, we held our election of officers for the 2010 lodge year. We will soon be getting together to do the Master Mason proficiency to finish proving up the lodge for 2009.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS

T h e b r e t h r e n o f Hickman lodge elected the following officers for 2010:

W. Master.....Bro. Richard Eggerling;Sr. Warden...........Bro. Gary JarzynkaJr. Warden.......Bro. James Eggerling;Secretery...............W.B. Olin Boone; Treasurer.............W.B. Jerry Sievers.

The Master-elect is working on getting the rest of his chairs filled and working on his installation.

MASON OF THE YEAR

Hickman Lodge has a special award to be given out to one of the brothers for their help with the lodge. Worshipful Master Bob Moninger asked the brethren to nominate brother(s) for the award. Three brothers were nominated W.B. Robert McDowell, W.B. David Livingston, and Bro. Jeff Eggerling. All three brothers were deserving of the award. The brothers then voted by ballot for one of the nominated brothers to receive the award and Bro. Jeff Eggerling was awarded Mason of the Year award by their ballot. He works with the new incoming candidates/brothers helping them prove up in all three degrees.

LODGE DUES

Have you paid your lodge dues yet? If you haven’t, send them in today to the lodge secretary. Thanks!

Cotner Lodge 297Tyler Weers, Correspondent

HUSKER FOOTBALL GAMES

Members of Cotner Lodge assisted Columbia Chapter Eastern Star on Oct. 17, Oct. 24, and Nov. 7 at a pop stand at Memorial Stadium. Thank you to Val Ryckman, Greg Mason, Bill Post, Jason Phelps and Don Albrecht for volunteering during the football games.

COTNER LODGE ADOPTS-A-HIGHWAY

On Oct. 18, members of Cotner Lodge traveled to East O Street to pick up litter from mile marker 339-341. Thank you to all the Brothers that assisted with the clean. It was a great day to get some exercise and clean up our highways. Look for the next cleanup in the spring.

POKER NIGHT

Members and guests of Cotner Lodge gathered together on Oct. 19 for an evening of poker, food and fellowship. Thank you to all who took part in the evening’s festivities.

NOVEMBER BUSINESS MEETING

Cotner Lodge’s November business meeting was held on Nov. 2. Members enjoyed chili soup and oyster stew prior to the business meeting. Congratulations to Don Albrecht on being elected

as the 2010 Worshipful Master.

COTNER TEMPLE ANNUAL SOUP SUPPER

The Cotner Temple Building Corporation held its annual Soup Dinner on Nov. 6. Thank you to all those who made a donation of salad, dessert and, or their time. We appreciate all those that came out to support the Cotner Temple Building fundraiser.

COTNER LODGE HOSTED A LADIES DINNER

On Sun., Nov. 8, Cotner Lodge honored the widow’s of past members with a ladies dinner at Cotner Masonic Temple. Dinner started with a salad followed by roasted pork loin with a cranberry brandy sauce, cheese potatoes, green beans with toasted almonds and an assortment of pies for dessert. Thank you to Kay, Shirley, Jan and Deloris for attending our event. We were pleased to have you join us for

the evening. Thank you to the members who joined in honoring the ladies of Cotner Lodge.

LINCOLN LIONESS

Thank you to Mary Kirkland and the Lincoln Lioness Club for your donation to the U.S. Soldier Care Package Drive. Your contributions will brighten the day of a soldier ’s life!

COTNER MASONIC FAMILY ANNUAL

CHRISTMAS PARTY

The Cotner Masonic Family Christmas Party will be held Dec. 6. Join us for a potluck dinner at 5:00 p.m. Please bring a dish to share.

DECEMBER BUSINESS MEETING

Cotner Lodge’s December business meeting will be held Dec. 7. Join us for dinner at 6:30 p.m. followed by our business meeting at 7:30 p.m. All Master Masons are invited to join us.

TABLE LODGE

Cotner Lodge will have a Table Lodge fundraiser for the George Washington Masonic Memorial on Dec. 28 at 6:00 p.m. Dinner and the evening’s festivities are $10.00. Please RSVP by Dec. 23 to Tyler Weers at 402-432-7572 or email; tyler_weers@hotmail.com. So you have never been to a Table Lodge? Then you will not want to miss out on this event. Join us for the fun and fellowship. All Masons are welcome to attend.

Cotner Lodge members gather for a picture at the end of the highway clean on East O Street. Don Gray photo

Dinner is served at Cotner Lodge’s Ladies Dinner. Don Albrecht photos

Originally published in The Nebraska Mason, Fall 2009

The following occurred re-cently. It left two people who were counting on the generosity of the Masonic fraternity to help them when they were in need. Unfortu-nately, that wasn’t the case.

The couple is in their 80s and had survived the worst that life could throw at them. They had held on, weathered the storms and had a good life with a good family and the respect of their neighbors.

They maintained their home, but eventually it became obvious they couldn’t stay there much longer. The yard work had become burdensome, and keeping up the house and cooking were too great a chore anymore. Unlike so many

older couples, they decided to be proactive and ask for the help prom-ised them so many years ago.

The wife made that fateful call and explained their situation. She acknowledged it would be dif-ficult for them to leave their home of so many years, but they needed to start making plans for their future care needs. She realized their cur-rent living arrangement was getting more and more difficult for them to manage every day.

What excited her was that the location of The Masonic Home is near a city where relatives live. She looked forward to living closer to them so they could spend the remainder of their lives surrounded by their loving family.

Calling The Home to get in-formation and discuss their situation

seemed to be the next step because after all it was something they had always talked about doing when it was necessary. They were familiar with the facility and knew of the high regard it held.

There was just one more step, she was told. It was neces-sary to check her husband’s Ma-sonic record. This is done for all people who are inquiring about admission.

Her husband joined a Ne-braska lodge in 1946 in the euphoria after World War II when many men pursued our gentle craft and the high principles it represented. These were the principles that America fought to preserve the previous five years. He was proud to be a Mason.

Obligation and CompassionCourtesy of the Grand Lodge Office

Continued on Page 4

DECEMBER2009 THEMASONICNEWS PAGE�

The Word of 54Mark Clinton, Correspondent

Bennett Lodge 94Daniel Longley, Correspondent

REGULAR BUSINESS

Bennet t lodge opened for business at 7:30 p.m. after a light meal of chili and sandwiches, and good fellowship.

The first order of business was to prove up Bro. Micheal Harriman as a Master Mason. W.B. Stu Erickson asked the questions and Bro. Micheal did not seem to have any problems with the questions. Welcome to the fraternity Micheal.

Brother Ronald Phillips was unable too attend and will be proved up in the December meeting.

INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS TO BE HELD

JANUARY 10

Bennett Lodge 94 will host an open Installation of Officers on the Jan. 10, 2010, at 2 p.m. All are welcome to come, jacket and tie requested. The officers to be installed include:

W. Master............Daniel J. Longley;Sr. Warden.......W.B. Richard Harris;Jr. Warden. W.B. Thomas Morrissey.Secretary............W.B. Stu Erickson;

The out going Master, Fred Liebers, has done an excellent job for 2009, and is to be commended for his leadership. We l l d o n e W. B . F r e d !

Liberty Lodge 300Randy Cox, Correspondent

REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING

On Nov. 5, we held our business meeting. A petition was read for Ross Clark Blackledge. A petition for re-instatement was also read, but about that later.

Brothers Alex Rivera-Aschan and Eldon Forsgren were awarded their aprons and bibles. We are happy that they are now Master Masons and are looking forward to their contributions to our lodge and to Masonry.

As this year winds down, the lodge still has some degree work to finish and proficiency to do. Also, the city wide Christmas party will be coming up.

PROFICIENT MASTERS

W.B. Walt Bauman and W.B. Wade Kendle have once again been certified proficient in all three degrees, knowing the cipher by heart. This is quite an accomplishment and we congratulate them on it.

ELECTIONS

Elections were held and Bro. Harold Nelson was elected Worshipful Master. Congratulations to Bro. Harold! Bro. Randy Cox was elected Senior Warden, Bro. Mark Eliker elected Jr. Warden. R.W.B. Bruce Watkins will be Secretary and W.B. Bob Foreman will serve as Treasurer.

LODGE PROFICIENCY

A special event at our Table Lodge was the presentation of a Lodge Proficiency Certificate form the Grand Lodge of Nebraska by Secretary Chuck Burk to Worshipful Master Don Arp. Our Lodge has 75 years of continuous Lodge Proficiency.

COMING EVENTS

PANCAKE BREAKFAST

Our annual Pancake Breakfast will be a not-to-be-missed event on the morning of Sat., Dec. 5, the day of Lincoln’s 25th Star City Holiday Parade. Be sure to come to our Masonic Temple for breakfast and then go to parade. Be sure to bring kids, grand kids, and neighbors’ kids. Leave your car in our parking lot and walk to the nearby parade.

Our menu includes:

PANCAKESSAUSAGE

ORANGE JUICECOFFEE/MILK/HOT

CHOCOLATE

A special treat at our Pancake Breakfast will be Christmas and polka music by The Clefs, the house band of the Lincoln Senior Center. Don’t miss this band of oldsters who still know how to please a crowd. We’ll serve from 7:30-11:30 for just $5.00 for adults, $3.00 for kids 12 and under, and under 3 no charge.

CITY-WIDE CHRISTMAS PARTY

Sun., Dec. 13, is the date for the All-City Christmas Party at our Masonic Temple, 1635 L St. The festivities start at 5:00 p.m. with a covered-dish dinner. After dinner, Santa Claus will visit with his elves and treats for kiddies of all ages. A carol-sing will be fun for all, and we’ll decorate the Christmas tree. Kids, family members, and prospective members are all welcome, so fill the car and come for a fun time. No charge; just bring a dish to share. Beverages will be furnished.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Sat., Dec. 5 Pancake Breakfast 7:30-11:30, 1635 L St.Sun., Dec. 13 All-City Christmas Party, 5:00 p.m., 1635 L St.

Lincoln Lodge 19Lowell Vestal, Correspondent

MASON OF THE YEAR AWARDED TO

PATRICK BARGER

Nov. 20 found the lodge dining room full of attendees to honor Lancaster Lodge Brethren for their outstanding contributions to Masonry and our lodge. Worshipful Master Merv McDonough bestowed the lodge’s highest award, Mason of the Year, to W.B. Patrick Barger for his efforts both in and out of the lodge room to further the ideals and objectives of Lancaster Lodge 54. Among W.B. Patrick’s accomplishments in 2009 was the creation of a new lodge webpage (www.lancaster54.org), a campaign boosting the lodge Facebook page from 4 to 76 lodge members, organizing and executing the Masons of 54 candidate night that garnered 21 new petitions, becoming individually proficient in the Entered Apprentice Degree, submitting numerous petitions as first-line signer, and tirelessly supporting and assisting the Worshipful Master in achieving his 2009 goals. Congratulations, Patrick, on a job well done!

BOB NICKELL RECOGNIzED FOR

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT

The annual Awards Night also featured Bro. Bob Nickell receiving a certificate for Outstanding Achievement from W.M. Merv for his role as Senior Steward. Among Bob’s accomplishments in 2009 was a review and upgrade to lodge meals at all lodge gatherings including business meetings, degrees, and social events; outstanding gourmet

meals prepared in the lodge kitchen by Bob himself; arriving early to equip the lodge room with all necessary tools for conducting meetings; and volunteering his time on numerous non-lodge meeting days to help with any task required. Congratulations, Bob. We couldn’t have done it without you!

2010 OFFICERS ELECTED NOVEMBER 6

At our monthly Regular Communication there were only four seats left in the lodge room in anticipation of our annual elections. Elected to serve in 2010 were:

W. Master..................Patrick Barger;Sr. Warden..................Mark Clinton;Jr. Warden......................Tyler White;Treasurer........................Joe Huskey;Secretary....................Bill Cummins;Trustee....................Steve Green.

With the election of all of these officers the Brethren of Lancaster Lodge No. 54 have again ensured the lodge will be in good hands and we are looking forward to a prosperous 2010 and beyond!

LODGE PROFICIENCY IN THE MASTER MASON

DEGREE CONDUCTED NOVEMBER 13

Deputy Grand Custodian Steve Green conducted a proficiency examination for all facets of the Master Mason Degree on Lancaster Lodge. As is the long-standing tradition in 54, the sitting Master of the Lodge confers the Master Mason degree for this event. Worshipful Master Merv McDonough continued that

tradition again this year as well as performed the role of King Solomon. We are pleased to report the Brethren of Lancaster Lodge ensured it was re-certified again this year as it has been continuously since the Grand Lodge of Nebraska began requiring lodges to be certified in the degree work in 1921.

DICK YOUNG AND LARRY SHARP PASSED TO THE DEGREE OF A

FELLOW CRAFT MASON NOVEMBER 27

Dick Young and Larry Sharp were the latest Entered Apprentice Masons to find themselves at the foot of our winding stairs. Brother Larry’s degree was conferred by his son Patrick Barger and Brother Dick’s by W.M. Merv McDonough.

After Bro Larry’s degree W.M. Merv McDonough called the Lodge from Labor to Refreshment and the Brethren enjoyed Chef Roberto’s homemade meal of Highlands Meat Loaf, Boilermaker mashed potatoes, and buttery seasoned corn KaBob. After our fine repast the lodge was called back to labor and Bro. Dick was also passed to the degree of a Fellow Craft Mason. We look forward to both Brothers’ next step in Masonry!

EVENT CALENDAR

DEC. 4 - Business Meeting 7 p.m., Entered Apprentice degree 7:30 p.m.DEC. 11 - Fellow Craft degree 7 p.m.DEC. 18 - 2010 Officers Meeting 7 p.m.JAN. 1 - Master Mason degree 6:30 p.m.

NOTE: Please check our website at www.lancaster54.org for the most up to date Event Calendar.

Dick Young and Larry Sharp received their Fellow Craft degrees on Nov. 27. Graham House photo

STATEMENT OF

OWNERSHIP PER U.S.P.S.

POLICY

ELECTA KENSINGTON MINUTES – NOV. 5

Fourteen members of Electa Kensington met on the above date for their monthly meeting. President, Sis. Marion Kantner welcomed all to the Thanksgiving themed meeting. Members enjoyed a delicious lunch prepared and hosted by Sisters Wilma Chestnut and Marian Walters. The table decorations were provided by Sis. Marion Kantner. A brief business meeting followed.

COURTESY REPORT

Courtesy chair, Sis. Betty Pauley sent cards to Bro. Dave Thomssen who has had hip replacement surgery and to Sis. Paula Edwards who is ill. Sis. Betty also reported that the following Sisters have November birthdays: Ilah Anderson, Edna

Zulke, and Gladys Adkins.

SERVICE PROJECT

Members discussed plans for a service project to provide teddy bears to the Lincoln Police Department (LPD) in 2010. The LPD chaplain has agreed to present a short program about how the teddy bears are used by LPD. Work on this project will continue at our December meeting.

ADJOURNMENT

There being nothing further to review, the meeting adjourned with the Mizpah Benediction. Members spent time visiting and signed the Thanksgiving cards for our shut-in and absent members.

Our next meeting will be Dec. 3, at noon. Our program will be music provided by Dorothy Applebee.

Electa Chapter 8 KensingtonSusan Dunn, Correspondent

PAGE� THEMASONICNEWS DECEMBER2009

North Star Lodge 227

Bob Tooker, Correspondent

Starcraft Chapter 307Terri Sherman, Correspondent

Rieke Metals, inc.

Helping Build Tomorrow’s New

Medicines

Rieke Metals, Inc.1001 Kingbird RoadLincoln, NE 68521

402-434-2775

Masonic Values Monthly Activities

In the next month, lodges are asked to hold the following activity to uphold the Masonic values above.

DECEMBER (brotherly love/ Grand Lodge Office Project): your lodge is encouraged to help with its improvements, upkeep and maintenance by holding a fundraiser and/or sending a donation.

East Lincoln Lodge 210Charles Godwin, Correspondent

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

“Nothing raises the price of a blessing like its removal; whereas it was its continuance which should have taught us its value. There are three requisites to the proper enjoyment to the proper enjoyment of earthly blessings—a thankful reflection on the goodness of the Giver, a deep sense of our unworthiness, a recollection of the uncertainty of long possessing them. The first would make us grateful; the second, humble; and the third, moderate.” - Hannah More

REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING

Potluck, business meeting and fellowship comprised the November regular meeting. Bills

were allowed and approved for payment. Three new petitions were received with one being a request for dual membership.

W.M. Monte Die t r ick appointed investigation committees to report at the December meeting.

Election of officers took place and W.B. W. Scott Dodge was elected Master for 2010 with W.B. Robert J. Pratt as Senior Warden, Kevin Pratt as Junior Warden, and W.B. Jeff Wunder as Secretary.

INSTALLATION

An open installation of the 2010 officers is scheduled for Mon., Jan. 18 at 7 p.m.

“The smile on your face is the light in the window that tells people that you are at home.” - unknown

REGULAR MEETING

Starcraft Chapter 307 met on Nov. 4 for their regular meeting. Worthy Matron, Sis Julie Fowler welcomed all with a greeting called “Smiles” and opened the meeting.

Members attending the November meeting brought items to be given to WUP (Willies Underwear Project) Willie Shafer is a member of Starcraft and started this project in 1981 when she saw a need for items to be given to school children when needed following school emergencies. Items received were: 5 sweatpants, 55 boys underwear, 120 girls underwear, 1 camisole.

Meeting was closed with W.M. Julie and W.P. Dennis B r y d l w i s h i n g e v e r y o n e a H a p p y T h a n k s g i v i n g .

SICKNESS AND DISTRESS

Sympathy of the Chapter was extended to the family of Sis. Carol Niemann, who died on Oct. 17, services were on Oct. 21.

Sis Karen Michaelson will have surgery at Bryan East on Nov. 13. Sis. Ortrude Snyder, P.M. of Fairbury, had a pacemaker put in on Nov. 16.

KENSINGTON

Kensington met on Nov. 3 for its 12:30 luncheon. The program was by the members and their favorite aprons, and the stories behind these aprons of their mothers and other members of their families.

Election of officers was held: President, Sis. Ruth Beach, PM, Vice President, Sis Alma Wilson, PM, Secretary, Sis Glee Warnke, PM,

Treasurer, Sis Ingrid Hansen, PM.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS

Election of Officers was held with the following results:

Worthy Matron.......Cora RedwineWorthy Patron..Dennis Brydl, PPAssoc. Matron...Doris Foust, PMAssoc. Patron....Carroll Foust, PPSecretary.............Ileen Smith, PMTreasurer.....Shirley Douglas, PMConductress....Terri Sherman, PMAssoc. Conductress...Julie Fowler, PM

BIRTHDAYS

Special Birthday Greetings to Sis. Annabel Peterson on her 97th birthday on Nov. 12.

DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS

Dec. 1 - Sharon RabelDec. 4 - Robert MarksDec. 6 - Don CarlsonDec. 11 - Beverly RybaDec. 12 - Margaret Ann DavisDec. 13 - Cathy HollowayDec. 17 - Tom FisherDec. 17 - Mary Kay RetzlaffDec. 18 - Bonnie KalkwarfDec. 20 - Dona PritchettDec. 21 - Rita ImlayDec. 26 - Lois Wilson BornemeierDec. 30 - Jean StephensDec. 31 - Dorothy Dunning

S p e c i a l T h a n k s g i v i n g wishes to all of our members as we are so thankful for all that we have each day.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS

After dining on leftovers from the Ladies Night prime rib feed, and the Lodge business had concluded, the following Officers were elected. Bro. Mark Poston as Master, W.B. Keith Brocksmith as S.W., Bro. David Peck as J.W. W.B.’s John Kirby, Steve Wetzel and Bob Tooker were re elected as Treasurer, Secretary and Trustee respectively. W.B. Dennis Mundt was elected to fill a spot on the Board of Trustees after a member resigned.

LODGE PROFICIENCY

On Oct. 21, North Star Lodge completed the 2009 Proficiency Examination by W.B. Bruce Watkins, Deputy Grand Custodian. I believe this will be 77 consecutive years of Lodge Proficiency. “Woe Be It” if a future Master of North Star drops this tradition. To that end, we have an Entered Apprentice candidate on deck, as soon as he has a free night we can schedule.

VACANT CHAIR CEREMONY

On Nov. 11, I had the opportunity to attend the Vacant Chair Ceremony at the Lincoln Scottish Rite Temple. It is a very moving and meaningful observation of Veterans’ Day. Whether you answered your Country’s call to duty or not, it was very much appreciated by those that did. Those who didn’t have the opportunity would also be moved by the emotion. Thanks to the officers that participated. Our own W.B. Keith Brocksmith was a Deacon. W.M. Karel Capek was also in attendance.

MONTHLY YUK YUK

The Reverend Ole is the Pastor of the local Norvegan Reformed Church and Pastor Sven is the Minister of the Svedish Covenant Church across the road. One day, the two ministers, were seen pounding a sign into the ground that said: “Da end iss near! Turn yerself arount now bafor it’s too late! As a car sped past them, the driver leaned out his window and yelled, “Leave me alone, you Skandaihoovian religious nuts!” From the curve ahead they heard screeching tires and a big splash. The Reverend Ole turns to Pastor Sven and asks, “Do ya tink maybe da sign should yust say, Bridge Out?” Till Next Month!

After checking his member-ship record the Grand Lodge office had bad news. Eighteen years ear-lier, life had become complicated for this Brother. Pressures on the farm had been building, and he wasn’t able to stay active in lodge for awhile.

The couple stayed in Eastern Star in another community because it was something she enjoyed, but he quit paying his lodge dues. No one called him to ask why, and no one called to tell him what he was risking by not maintaining his membership in lodge.

After 45 years as a Master Mason, her husband was suspended for nonpayment of dues. The return call to his wife about his suspension was difficult. Certainly, he should have paid his dues. Positively, they should have known that only Ma-sons and their female relatives can live at The Home. And, absolutely he should have been contacted after paying dues for 45 years and told the consequences of suspension from membership. But, that never happened. No one called him.

There’s plenty of blame that can be shared by everyone in this situation. But if we are living the obligation all Master Masons took at the altar, it never would have happened. Needless to say, the couple was heartbroken. The elderly woman was sad. She stated that if her husband had known his sus-pension would make it impossible to live at The Nebraska Masonic Home, he never would have let that happen. They thought their involvement in Eastern Star was enough.

Not only did this situation af-fect their future, but also the future of other living female relatives. The wife, widow, mother, sister, daugh-ter, grandmother and granddaughter of a Nebraska Master Mason are eligible to apply for admission to The Nebraska Masonic Home.

This scenario is played out all too often. Please bear in mind how important it is to keep your membership current for yourself and female relatives for generations to come.

If you know of a Mason who is considering leaving the fraternity or who has been suspended for not paying his dues, please encourage him to review the benefits available to him and his family. This is truly an act of putting Masonic values into action.

It is also the responsibil-ity and obligation of each lodge’s secretary and its Membership Retention Committee to contact any member who is in a possible suspension situation. We want to retain our members and afford them the benefits of the fraternity.

To inform new members of the benefits they receive through their membership Grand Lodge sends each new member a docu-ment titled, “Your Benefits as a Master Mason.” He is encouraged to make copies for his family so they, too, are aware of the advan-tages his membership gives them. It is hoped conversations like the one related here won’t happen again.

Feel free to contact the lodge secretary, Grand Lodge, or The Nebraska Masonic Home with any questions you may have.

Obligation - Cont. from page 2

Myrtle Chapter 94Deb Kendle, Correspondent

REGULAR STATED MEETING AND INITIATION

Myrtle Chapter 94 met Tues., Nov. 10. W.M. Deb Kendle and W.P. Wade Kendle welcomed everyone and thanked them for coming. W.M. Deb would thanked Bro. Steve Brown for filling in as Sentinel. She also welcomed and thanked her regular sideliners. It’s great to have visitors on the sidelines.

Sis. Emily Schoenleber announced her kitchen committee of Sis. Bette and Bro. Bill Cummins. We were served delicious brownies.

The meeting was closed in regular manner after which W.M. Deb announced that she had a guessing game for all to participate in. There were two jars filled with candy and whom ever guessed the closest won the jar. Our winners for the evening were Bro. Albert Chatfield and Sis. Jeanne Bonnett.

2010 ELECTION OF OFFICERS

Congratulations to the newly elected off icers for 2010. The results are below:

W. Matron....Sis. Emily Schoenleber;W. Patron.......Bro. Eric Schoenleber;Assoc. Matron.............Sis. Tyra Tate;Assoc. Patron........Bro. Greg Mason;Secretary..........Sis. Helen Plucknett;Treasurer...........Sis. Bette Cummins;Conductress...Sis. Robyn Throckmorton;Assoc. Conductress..Sis. Jeanne Bonnett;Trustee............Sis. Linda Livingston.

Ins ta l l a t ion de ta i l s to be announced in the next issue.

DUES ARE DUE

There are still members of Myrtle Chapter who have not paid their dues for 2009. If you happen to be one, please send your dues check to our Secretary, Helen Plucknett or we will be forced to suspend you on Dec 31. 2010 dues become due January 1. Please contact our secretary with dues issues: Helen Plucknett, 7828 Stonewall Court, Lincoln, NE 68506, 402-488-4450.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Meeting date for next month is set for Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m. All are encouraged to attend. Remember, wear your Christmas attire.

Please join us for the University Place Masonic Family Holiday Party! Friendships, Games and Karaoke will be available. Sat., Dec. 12, 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., 2610 North 48th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska. Hot Cocoa, Cider, Coffee, Tea and Water will be provided. Please bring either a holiday dessert to share or a donation to be shared amongst our groups. Festive attire is encouraged!

Keep saving those Best Choice Labels. You can turn in your labels on the bulletin board at the Masonic Temple, or to Steve and Norma Brown.

We w i s h e v e r y o n e a Joyous Hol iday Season

SupportMasonic

Youth

DECEMBER2009 THEMASONICNEWS PAGE�

Martha Washington 153Paula Beezley, Correspondent

NOVEMBER MEETING

Worthy Matron Sis. Jeanne Krenk welcomed everyone and with Thanksgiving nearly upon us read “Three Good Things”. W.P. Bro. Mark Poston added his words of welcome.

ROAST BEEF DINNER – SUN., OCT. 11, 2009

Worthy Matron Sis. Jeanne recognized those members who assisted in working for the success of the Roast Beef Dinner.

We would like to extend our thanks to all who attended our annual Roast Beef dinner on Sun., Oct. 11. A great big thank you too to all those members who worked preparing for it, serving during it and cleaning up after it was over. It was a success in large part because of our own membership as well as the Masonic community in Lincoln. We very much appreciate your support.

MASONIC TEMPLE BOARD

The committee working diligently to set up a Temple Board recently mailed the proposed By Laws and a cover letter to all members of George Washington Lodge as well as Martha Washington Chapter. The members in attendance voted to proceed with the formation of the Temple Board and ratified the By-Laws as set forth by the committee.

NEW BUSINESS

T h e f i r s t o r d e r o f business was Election and the following members were elected to serve for the ensuring year.Worthy Matron.....Sis. Janice NitzWorthy Patron......Bro. John KirbyAssoc. Matron................Sis. Gwen Hurst-AndersonAssoc. Patron....Bro. Mark PostonSecretary......Sis. Elizabeth WilhiteTreasurer....Sis. Shirley BoardmanConductress....Sis. Michelle Smith

Assoc. Conductress..................Sis. Betty Kirby, PGMTrustee...........Sis. Janet Lundholm

Installation of Officers will be Sat., Jan. 9, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. at George Washington Lodge.

Initiation will be held on Thurs, Dec. 3 at 7:30 p.m.

GOOD OF THE ORDER

Worthy Matron Sis. Jeanne thanked her substitute for the evening, Bro. Roger Warnke who served as Assoc. Patron.

ILLNESS & DISTRESS

Bro. Richard Tuhey had surgery on Wednesday to ampuate his other leg. He is doing as well as can be expected.

Sis. Clarice Brown fell and broke a bone in her foot. She is wearing a boot but is unable to drive.

S i s . L a u r a C h y t k a i s i l l w i t h t h e f l u .

BIRTHDAYS

Those member s w i th October birthdays were Sis. Jeanne Krenk. Assoc. Matron Sis. Janice Nitz presented the Worthy Matron with an apple pin as a birthday gift from her Officers.

The November stated meeting for Temple Chapter 271 was held on Nov. 2, with 17 members present. The meeting opened in short form with minutes of the previous meeting read and approved. Sis. Carolyn Plants announced that 336 bags of egg noodles were prepared on two weekends during October as a fundraiser for the Chapter.

ELECTIONS

Elections were held with Sis. Karan Birdsall being elected as Worthy Matron and Bro. Don Jelinek as Worthy Patron for the 2010 year. Other officers elected were: Sis. Laurie Sieg, Assoc. Matron, Bro. David Jelinek, Assoc. Patron, Sis. Carolyn Plants, Secretary, Sis Marilyn Jepson, Treasurer, Sis Lorrie Bryant, Conductress, Sis. Judy McDonough, Assoc. Conductress, and Sis. Melinda Brage, Trustee.

PAST MATRONS

Past Matrons was held on Nov. 21 with Sis. Carolyn Plants and Ann Elliott as hostesses. Sis. Melinda Brage announced that Bro. Larry Brage will be performing as the Pie Man and Santa Claus in Babes in Toyland during December at the

Lincoln Community Playhouse.

INITIATION

Temple Chapter conducted an initiation ceremony on Nov. 16. Sisters Jill Aerni, Brianna Lyons, Emily Greenlee, and Bro. Ken Sieg received the degrees. Chapter members were pleased to welcome Bro. Patrick and Sis. Diane Barger who joined Temple Chapter by affiliation in February and Sis Robyn Throckmorton who joined by affiliation in October. Bro. Mark

Clinton also joined the Chapter by affiliation. The Chapter is very pleased to welcome all of the new members and looks forward to their contributions of time and talents.

CHRISTMAS PARTY

Temple Chapter will have its Christmas party on Dec. 21 at 6:30 p.m. It will be a potluck with white elephant gifts. Kensington will meet on Dec. 15 at 11:30 a.m. at the Landing. Sis. Dee Shrader is the hostess.

Worthy Matron Mary Lou Dempsey and Worthy Patron Don Jelinek welcome new members to Temple Chapter, Bro. Ken Sieg, Sis. Brianna Lyons, Sis. Emily Greenlee, and Sis. Jill Aerni. Lorrie Bryant photo

Temple Chapter 271Lorrie Bryant, Correspondent

[ O r i g i n a l l y p u b l i s h e d in The Scottish Rite Jour-nal (ISSN 1076-8572), No-v e m b e r- D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9 ]

Ill. Walter Breuning, 33°, is the Oldest Man in the World according to the Guinness Book of World Records. He’s also the Oldest Scottish Rite Mason in the World, the Oldest Baseball Fan in the World, and … well, for any-thing he’s interested in, he’s the “Oldest in the World.” On Monday September 21, 2009, Bro. Walter celebrated his 113th (!) birthday at the Rainbow Retirement Center in Great Falls, Montana, where he has lived for the past 30 years. Approximately 100 people attended his party, including Governor Brian Schweitzer of Montana, Ill. David Nielsen, 33°, Deputy for Montana, and many Masonic friends. Rep-resentative Denny Rehberg, 32°, KCCH, sent a spokesperson to convey his birthday wishes.

RW Thomas M. Duffy, 32°, Jr. Grand Warden of Montana, pre-sented Bro. Walter with a replica of the gavel used by Bro. George Washington to lay the cornerstone of the U.S. Capitol. Ill. Albert O. Schmidt, 33°, Secretary of the Great Falls bodies, presented a $10,000 check to the Great Falls RiteCare Clinic for Childhood Language Disorders from Ill. Robert Oakland, 33°, in honor of Ill. Breuning on his 113th birthday.

When meeting Bro. Walter, the most impressive thing is his quick wit and sharp mind. He can easily remember events of the past, such as his grandfather telling him about fighting in the war—the Civil War! He can discuss the Great Depression, the banks closing, and millions of people out of work. He

witnessed first hand and remembers the Great Depression, World Wars I & II, men walking on the moon, and the space shuttles. During his life 22 of our 44 president have held office! But even more amazing than his great memory of events in his life is his ability to keep up with current affairs. An avid reader, Walter readily discusses current issues such as health care reform, which he has done with Senator Max Baucus of Montana, the cur-rent recession, and the difficulties now facing President Obama.

Ill. Breuning was born on September 21, 1896, in Melrose, Minnesota. When he was 14, his father left, and Walter dropped out of school to work and to help his mother support the family. In 1913 he went to work for the Great Northern Railroad and continued to work for them for 50 years.

When asked about Freema-sonry, Bro. Walter said, “A way of life—that’s what Masonry is, and we teach it in every degree, every degree is a lesson.” Joining the Masonic Fraternity in 1925, Ill. Breuning has been a member for 84 years and a Scottish Rite Mason for 72 years. He has served the Craft well, being one of the founders of Great Falls Lodge No. 118 and then Worshipful Master of Cascade Lodge No. 34 when the two Lodges merged. Bro. Walter also was secretary of the lodge for 25 years. In the Scottish Rite, he served as Venerable Master and was the Reunion Director in the Valley of Great Falls for 44 years. Ill. Walter Breuning was elevated to 33° on January 11, 1958. He was also an active Shriner.

Bro. Walter still enjoys get-ting up every morning, putting on his coat and tie and walking down the hall to breakfast. He is known to

flirt with the “girls” at the Rainbow Retirement Center, but then for him, any woman under 90 is a “girl”! His recipe for life is simple: “Stay active in body and mind, don’t eat too much, and be good to people.” He believes strongly in his Masonic principles and says that “we are not here just for ourselves; we are here to help other people. I’ve always believed that and always will. Helping other people is the greatest thing you can do.”

Excerpts from the Speech by Ill. Walter Breuning, 33°, on His 113th Birthday (From the Great Falls Tribune)

“Life begins each morning, whether we have succeeded or failed or just muddled along. Life is a school to learn, not to unlearn.

Life is the creation by God, and if you would know God, be not a solver of riddles. Look about you and you shall see Him playing with your children. Look into the air and you shall see him walking in the clouds, out-stretching his arms in the lightning, and descending in rain. You shall see him smiling in

flowers, then rising and waving his hands in trees.

Life is a great teacher of truth. What is truth to one is not truth to another. What is true in one country may be false in another.

Life is short but the influ-ences of what we do or say is immortal. There needs to be much more of the spirit of fellowship among us and more forgiveness. The power of gentleness is little seen in the world.

Remember that life’s length is not measured by its hours and days, but by that which we have done therein. A useless life is short if it lasts a century.

There are greater and better things in us all if we would find them out. There will always be in this world—wrongs. No wrong is really successful.

The day will come when light and truth and the just and the good shall be victorious and wrong as evil will be no more forever.

Life itself teaches us to best prepare for that future which we hope for and for that journey to that land unknown, not made by hands.

Everything just is beautiful; everything beautiful ought to be just.

The mystery of the world remains unknown. Our maker alone is the key which unlocks all the mysteries of the universe.

The world is neither a prison nor a palace of ease, but rather for instruction and discipline.

This world has been good to all of us.”

Scottish Rite Mason, Oldest Man in the WorldWade Kendle, Editor

Walter Breuning

Lodge was opened in do form with W.M. Eric Bachenberg in the east. The business meeting went well and business was attended to in short order. Election of officers for 2010 was held with the follow-ing elected and appointed:

W. Master....................Troy TuheySr. Warden...................Dan KahlerJr. Warden..............George WrightChaplain..............George HarrisonSecr./Treas............Don EisenbarthSr. Deacon................Earl RobinettJr. Deacon...........Eric Bachenberg

Installation of officers will be held Jan. 10, 2010.

On the sad side of things, Bro, Raymond Girmus passed away on 10/31. We wish his family the best. Bro. Richard Tuhey is in the hospital for surgery and will be in rebab for having both legs ampu-tated due to diabetes.

George Washington Lodge 250

Troy Tuhey, Corr.

PAGE� THEMASONICNEWS DECEMBER2009

PLANNING EVENT

Members gathered in the afternoon on Oct. 18 to begin work on decorating a pail to look like a fish for the Grand Bethel Honored Queen project and a cut out fish bowl for the Miss Nebraska Job’s Daughter project. Members of Job’s Daughters are collecting pop tabs or spare change for the Shriners hospitals for the GBHQ project and money for HIKE for the MNJD project this year. We also spent the afternoon brainstorming and making decorations for our Halloween dance fundraiser.

BETHEL MEETING

We held a regular business meeting in the evening on Oct. 26. Members shared information regarding our homemade caramel apple sale fundraiser, our Halloween Dance fundraiser, Fall Workshop details, and Bethel 60’s Soup Supper fundraiser. The Honored Queen reminded everyone to continue collecting Best Choice UPC Code labels as a Bethel fundraiser, aluminum cans and pop tabs for the GBHQ project, and printer cartridges for HIKE.

CARAMEL APPLE MAKING

On the evening of Oct. 28 members gathered at the Guardian Secretary’s home to make homemade gourmet caramel apples. Boy did we have our work cut out for us! Our members sold 161 apples!! Thank you to everyone who purchased our apples! Congratulations to Sarah for being our top caramel apple seller!!

HALLOWEEN DANCE FUNDRAISER

On Oct. 29 members met at our Bethel to decorate for the Halloween Dance fundraiser. Almost all of our decorations were made by members of the Bethel. Some decorations included: two large spiders made out of black balloons and black streamer, black bats made out of balloons and construction paper, construction paper spider webs and jack-o-lanterns. The following day, Oct. 30, many Masonic youth members, prospects, and adult chaperones had a blast dancing all evening. Those in attendance had the chance to win door prizes given throughout the night, enjoy free candy and nachos, and were given glow bracelets. Thank you to all who attended our event and made it a huge success!! Music was brought to us by our awesome DJ, Rich Johnson. Rich Johnson is a past Master Councilor and Senior DeMolay of Eiche Chapter DeMolay.

DON & MILLIE’S FUNDRAISER

On Mon., Nov. 2 many members, families and friends of Bethel 60 stop in at Don and Millie’s for dinner at 5600 S. 52nd Street to support Bethel 60’s ongoing activities and service projects. This event takes

place the first Monday of every month from 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. We’d love for you to join us! All you have to do is stop in or drive thru and say you are there to support “Job’s Daughters” and the Bethel will get 20% of what you purchase! Our next Don & Millie’s Night is Mon., Dec. 7!

BETHEL CLEAN

Members were found in the morning of Nov. 7 completing their monthly task of cleaning College View Lodge. Members dusted, swept and mopped floors, cleaned counters, scrubbed tables, and cleaned bathrooms.

ARC HONEY SALES

Following the Bethel clean on Nov. 7 members were found selling honey bears for the ARC of Lincoln at the 56th and Pinelake Walgreens. Members sold $105 worth of honey! The ARC of Lincoln supports people with developmental disabilities and their families.

BETHEL MEETING & ELECTIONS

On the evening of Nov. 9 Bethel 60 held a regular business meeting. Elections of officers for the spring 2010 term were held. Bethel 60’s newly elected line officers for the spring 2010 term are: Senior Princess-elect: Catherine, Junior Princess-elect: Kelsey, Guide-elect: Ashley, and Marshal-elect: Sarah. Ashley gave a book report on “Artichoke’s Heart” by Susan Supplee for the Librarian’s Report. The members held a coin march to collect money for the Grand Bethel Honored Queen’s project.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

The following members are celebrating upcoming birthdays:Jan. 7 – Sarah (age 13)Jan. 25 – Pam Johnson

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Dec. 5 – Bethel Clean & Christmas Party, 10 AMDec. 7 – Don & Millie’s Fundraiser, 5:00-9:00 PMDec. 14 – Bethel Meeting, 7 PMJan. 4 – Don & Millie’s Fundraiser, 5:00-9:00 PMJan. 11 – Bethel Meeting, 7 PMJan. 25 – Bethel Meeting, 7 PM

MasonicYouth

Bethel 63Julie Munford, Correspondent

Bethel 60Diana Weers, Correspondent

BABY SHOWER

On Oct. 18, Bethel 63 celebrated the upcoming birth of Megan Koinzan’s baby girl with a shower. Cupcakes and punch, clothespin games, guessing what was in the babyfood jar and how big mommy’s tummy was, was all part of the event. Cute baby clothes, toys and diapers were all part of the fun.

POTATO BAKE SUCCESS

Thanks to all of you who sold tickets and attended our HIKE Fundraiser event. We even had to run out for a few extra potatoes. What great support we had!

ELECTION

Elections were held on Nov. 5 and we all congratulation HQ-Elect Dylan Lamb and look forward to her installation and her upcoming term!

FOOD

Bethel 63 held a Bake Sale during the Cotner Temple Soup Supper and helped with the dining

room. Delicious soup, salad and dessert and everyone had a chance to take something yummy home afterwards from the Bake Sale.

FALL WORKSHOP

Fall Workshop found 8 girls, Trudi and Cindy traveling to Kearney for a great weekend with al l the other Jobies.

HOLIDAY GREETINGS

By the time you read this, Thanksgiving will be past and Christmas will be quickly approaching. From Bethel 63.......Merry Christmas a n d H a p p y N e w Ye a r .

Even the adult chaperones had a blast at the Halloween Dance fundraiser! Photo courtesy of Carla Green

Catherine and Sarah count caramel during our homemade cara-mel apple fundraiser. Carla Green photo

Look at those delicious homemade caramel ap-ples made by the members of Bethel 60! We made 161 caramel apples!! Carla Green photo

Masonic youth members and their friends had a blast dancing at Bethel 60’s Halloween Dance fundraiser on Oct 30. Diana Weers photo

Catherine, PJ & Kelsey peel wrappers off caramel during our homemade caramel apple fundraiser. Diana Weers photo

Members of Bethel 60 sold honey bears for the ARC of Lincoln on November 7. Diana Weers photo

On Oct. 18, Bethel 63 hosted a baby shower for Megan Koinzan. Those Bethel members in at-tendance had a whole lot of fun playing baby shower games. They pose with Megan after all the loot has been opened. Julie Munford photo

Bethel 63 had a bake sale during the Cotner Temple soup supper held Nov. 6. Photo courtesy of Julie Munford

Pictures from Megan’s baby shower hosted by Bethel 63. Photos courtesy of Julie Munford

Tell our advertisers you saw their ad in

DECEMBER2009 THEMASONICNEWS PAGE�

GRAND ASSEMBLY CROSS TEAM

Over fifty Masters of the Grand Cross of Color--a service designation of the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls-- attended the annual Grand Cross Degree, Mystic Banquet and Break-breaking Ceremony. After the Degree and a catered luncheon in the beautifully decorated dining room, the program included Tributes to Mrs. Thelma Domingo Member of the House of Gold by Suzy Hammons No. 5, Mrs. Betty Garwood Supreme Deputy by Deirdre Hoffman No. 14, Rev. Mark W. Sexson by Samantha Voshell No. 22, What Grand Cross Means to a Girl by Meagan Jacobs No. 2, and What Grand Cross Means to an Adult by Richard Voshell No. 22. Members of Lincoln Assembly No. 6 participating were Nicki Folsom, Jessica Rodriguez, and

Allison Burris. Mrs. Laurie Sieg of Lincoln is Director of Grand Cross. Westside Assembly No. 22 of Omaha hosted the event on Nov. 15, the day designated by

the Founder of the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls Rev. W. Mark Sexson for Masters of the Grand Cross to break bread with a Rainbow girl.

Over 4000 Eastern Star members from across the U.S. and around the world made the pilgrimage to Tulsa, OK, for the 46th Triennial Council Fires Session of the General Grand Chapter (GGC). The delegation of Nebraskans traveled by plane, car and bus, and included first timers to seasoned General Grand Chapter attendees. As with any Eastern Star meeting, it was an opportunity to spend quality time with our Nebraska OES brothers and sisters, meet up with old friends and make new friends. It was time to compare the similarities and the differences among the jurisdictions and to appreciate what we do and have at home.

Betty Kirby, PGM, was in charge of the Nebraska bus which began pickups in Hastings and moved on to Lincoln and Omaha. It was a rainy day to travel but the camaraderie on the full bus was warm and sunny. Arriving in Tulsa we dropped off passengers at the DoubleTree and Crown Plaza with the bulk of the delegation going to the Hampton Inn which was about 20 minutes from the Convention Center. Yes, we finally were assigned a place to stay in mid-October so we didn’t need sleeping bags after all. Once in Tulsa, the weather was beautiful and coats were unnecessary baggage.

First up were practices. There was a long practice for a huge Indian headdress formation. When completed on Monday morning, it was a colorful array of “feathers” in the headdress which included every group participating at GGC. It was the only time these groups were presented on the floor. Presentations and speeches were limited as there was much other business to accomplish during the sessions.

Most Worthy Grand Matron Barbara Benton and Most Worthy Grand Patron William “Bill” Owen gave us moments of impressive but understated splendor as the emblems were presented in a moving ceremony with the Indian Chief leading five Indian maidens through the labyrinth. The decorations included a huge teepee, a campfire and smaller teepees, a large white buffalo and carved wooden

eagle in the East and grasses and wildflowers around the chapter room.

Choir members met for breakfast and practice, the International Grand Representatives held a luncheon on Saturday and there was a Meet and Greet Halloween party in the evening. Greg Mason as Darth Vader won first prize for scariest male costume. Sue Hedges as Tigger won second place in cartoon character division.

Sunday’s program included the ESTARL Worship Service, Youth Service and Cavalcade of Flags by the Oklahoma Rainbow Girls, Memorial and Necrology, Meet the Candidates Reception and the “Gathering of the Tribes” All Member Banquet. Monday was Informal and Formal Openings, presentation of GGC Officers and addresses of the Most Worthy Grand Matron and Most Worthy Grand Patron.

The Nebraska Big Red Dinner on Monday evening was a time of lively fellowship and fun for the Nebraska delegation. Eighty two attended the event which honored our own GGC 2009-2010 appointees Carole DeMoss Deputy to the Most Worthy Grand Matron in Hawaii, Bonnie Brasel ESTARL, Mary Lou Erickson Payroll, James DeMoss Chairman Jurisprudence and Michael Donham Visionquest. Margaret Thomas Grand Representative to Nebraska in Scotland and Phoebe Kinney Grand Representative to Nebraska in Oklahoma with her two companions also attended. Tri-line WGM PGM Betty Garwood, charged with arrangements for the Big Red event, decorated the room in red from tablecloths and napkins to the tall vases with red flowers and Nebraska pennants and cardinals. Even the Oklahomans who served the dinner were accommodating of the rival Nebraskans and good-naturedly allowed the large Nebraska banner provided by our WGP to remain. Betty Kirby, a Tri-Line WGM gave the Invocation. After the pork loin dinner Bernie Hauber and Sharron Gilson entertained with a skit of comedy and songs. Bernie will need to gain a little weight to be a really convincing Larry the Cable Guy but otherwise played the part to perfection. Sharron, as a precocious

six-year old Little Red, harassed Bernie’s character for the duration of their program. The special GGC guests brought greetings, PGM Jill Ramsey presented a Tribute to Loy Teeter--Friend of a Feather, Cathy Wagner Secretary of the Grand Secretaries Association spoke, and PGM Wanda Fisher, a Tri-Line WGM, presented gifts to the GGC honorees. KOES News was on site with reporters Worthy Grand Matron Billie Mattern and Worthy Grand Patron Bruce Raddatz reporting and interviewing a number of the Nebraskans about their GGC experiences. The Benediction was sung by PGM Betty Garwood and the evening ended with the Mizpah Benediction.

Tuesday was the beginning of many Reports and the business portion of the assembly. The business at GGC is conducted in a brisk, parliamentary manner. There were 1177 voting delegates registered, 45 resolutions presented of which 36 were in proper form and acted upon. Prior to the meetings Nebraska had held a review- the-resolutions get together where voting and non-voting members reviewed the resolutions, asked questions, discussed the resolutions and voiced non-binding opinions. The discussions at GGC are lively but orderly as Standing Rules are strictly adhered to. A stop light is used to time speakers and microphones are shut off when time expires. Some Resolutions covered topics such as extending the voting rights at GGC, housekeeping typographical corrections and clarifications, eligibility for membership (aunts have been added), suggested changes in wording, floor work and procedures in the Ritual, renumber items in secret work, define or change duties of GGC committees, add Youth as a standing committee of GGC, add ex-officio members to GGC Trustees and more. MWGM Sister Barbara kept things light at times when needed to relieve tensions or when procedures became muddled. Twenty one resolutions were adopted, fourteen were defeated and one was withdrawn.

Election of the GGC officers was by acclamation for all except those offices which had more than

one candidate. Candidates may campaign at GGC so it is well known who is running for elective offices. Written ballots for elections were last names only which were spelled for the assembly prior to the ballot being taken. Marianne Shenefelt PGM from Wyoming is the new Right Worthy Associate Grand Conductress. This was the first time a RWAGC was elected without having served as a Trustee.

At the “Dancing of the Drums” All Member Banquet on Wednesday banquet all groups presented love gifts to the Most Worthy Grand Matron and Most Worthy Grand Patron. A non-English speaking member from Peru joined one Nebraska table. When an interpreter could not be found, smiles were the best and only means of communication.

PGM Dee Schuetz handled the huge job of being the Coordinator of Triennial Committees & Groups. She was the chairman of the chairmen. Nebraskans participating were Assembly Pages--Jan Barnard, Sharron Gilson, Cathy Wagner and Barbara Wood; Assistant to the Right Worthy Associate Grand Matron--Jill Ramsey; Assistants to the Right Worthy Grand Conductress--Betty Kirby and Jan Thoman; Assistants to the Right Worthy Associate Grand Conductress--Bonnie Evans; Assistants to the Right Worthy Grand Sentinel--Tregan Albers; Assistants to the Worthy Grand Warder--Carol Hudkins, Assembly Ushers--Brenda McGuire; Great Spirit Choir--Myrna Vasta, Maril and Bernie Hauber.

Thursday it was time for closing remarks and the beginning of the changing of the guard. During the afternoon a complete make-over of the Convention Center was made prior to Installation of the new GGC Officers as the auditorium was changed from the Native American village on the plains to a beautiful garden of flowers representing “The Nature of God’s Love Around the

World”. Rennie Ofton PGM Texas and Frederick Clarke PGP Nova Scotia-Prince Edward Island were installed MWGM and MWGP. They will be making their official visit to Nebraska next May 2010.

Our 2009-2012 General Grand Chapter Ambassador and Committee Members are Carole DeMoss PGM Ambassador to the Phillipines, Jill Ramsey PGM Eastern Star Journal, Jan Thoman PGM Membership and Betty Kirby PGM Service Dog Project. 2009-2012 Tri-Line WGMs--Billie Mattern and Jerrie Wilcox carried the Committee banners when the new GGC Committees were presented. Carol Hudkins is the third Tri-Line WGM.

Fun stuff--WGM Billie Mattern and avid Husker fan held a pool to see who could guess how many times Oklahoma would be sung during the Council Fires Assembly; proceeds went to the Salvation Army. A group watched the Nebraska football game and Jan Barnard won four $25 pools. Lots of time standing in line maybe wasn’t so fun but one certainly got acquainted with lots of Sisters and Brothers from home and abroad. There was outstanding entertainment at all of the banquets and on Tuesday night while the Masons attended the Indian Masonic Degree. The many and varied Vendors provided the best shopping opportunities as time and distance did not allow for mall trips. Several helped in the booth of the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls. Uno card games, snacks, dominos, snacks, bus bingo, snacks, talking with friends--new and old, snacks, meals from fast food to Ruby Tuesdays and Baxter’s and more rounded out the memorable trip to GGC in Tulsa.

The next General Grand Chapter will be in Fort Worth, Texas Nov. 2-9, 2012. Start making plans now to be part o f Nebraska’s Delega t ion .

“Council Fires” Session of General Grand ChapterSubmitted by Betty Garwood

Nebraska Grand Assembly Grand Cross of Color Team presented an exemplification of the Grand Cross of Color Degree ceremony prior to the Mystic Banquet and Break Breaking Ceremony on November 15 at Westside Assembly. Photo courtesy of Lorrie Bryant

Grand Cross of ColorBetty Garwood, Correspondent

PAGE� THEMASONICNEWS DECEMBER2009

COMING EVENTS IN MASONRYSUN, DEC. 6 Cotner Masonic Christmas Party, 1542 N. Cotner, potluck, 5 PMMON, DEC. 7 Don & Millies Fundraiser, Bethel 60, 56th & Hwy 2, 5 PM - 9 PMSAT, DEC. 12 Initiation, Bethel 5, Masonic Temple 1635 L St., 10 AMSAT, DEC. 12 Parent’s Night Out, Bethel 5, Masonic Temple, 1635 L St., 6 PM - 11 PMSAT, DEC. 12 Uni-Place Masonic Family Christmas Party, 2610 N. 48th St., 7 PM - 10 PMSUN, DEC. 13 All City Christmas Party, Masonic Temple 1635 L St., potluck, 5:00 PMSUN, DEC. 13 Bake Sale and Silent Auction, Bethel 5, Masonic Temple, 1635 L St., 5:30 PMMON, DEC. 21 Christmas Party, Temple Chapter, 6:30 p.m.MON, DEC. 28 Table Lodge, Cotner Lodge, 1542 N. Cotner, 6 PMMON, DEC. 28 Installation of Officers, Bethel 60, 4641 Cooper Ave. , 7:00 p.m., CLOSEDSAT, JAN. 9 Installation of Officers, Bethel 63, 1542 N. Cotner, 2:00 p.m.SUN, JAN. 10 Installation of Officers, Bennet Lodge, 4641 Cooper Ave., 2 p.m.MON, JAN. 18 Installation of Officers, East Lincoln Lodge, 2700 S St., 7 p.m.WED, JAN. 20 Installation of Officers, Starcraft Chapter, 27th & B., 7 p.m.

4040 A StreetLincoln, NE 68510

Kenneth MaserJim LovePatrick McCashland

Todd BiesterJohn LoveBill HaberlanSteve NorenBill Cave

488-0934 • bmlfh.com

“The Funeral Home Family & Friends

Recommend.”

211 E. 1st StreetHickman, NE

Locally Owned & Operated Since 1883

Andy Elliot

Masonic News Business DirectoryReal Estate/Estate/Busi. Equip./Benefit AuctioneersGreat Plains Realty Auct.-Randy Fleming CAI Auct’r/Broker. 402-210-

4885

Your business or professional service can be listed here in two linesfor 12months for just $28.60.WriteThe Masonic news.

Box 82304, Lincoln, NE 68501 or e-mailmasonicnews@gmail.com

AttorneysLynnAlexander, amember of Lancaster Lodge 54 402-489-3000

Wemake housecalls.

Antique&CoinAppraisalsTomBassett, amember of Lincoln Lodge 19 402-484-8143 25 years experience E-mail: tkbassett@windstream.net

Bethel 27Emily Schoenleber, Correspondent

Happy Holidays! Bethel 27 hopes everyone will enjoy their celebrations as 2009 come to an end.

INITIATION

We apologize for the delay, but we’re very pleased to announce our newest member, Ashlyn Eveland joined Bethel 27 in September of this year. Ashlyn is a very active and enthusiastic new Daughter – not surprising given her strong Masonic heritage and close friends in the Bethel. Bethel 27 is very grateful for all the assistance provided by other Job’s Daughters in performing Ashlyn’s initiation ceremony. Daughters from 5 other Bethels gracious gave the time and talents to allow us to hold a very impressive performance.

SLEEPOVER

With a variety of fall activities keeping the Bethel busy, a highlight was definitely the prospective member sleepover at our Bethel on Oct. 30. Members brought friends to learn about Job’s Daughters and see how much fun these crazy girls have when they get together. We started off the evening with a Jobie Photo Scavenger hunt – in which the prospects bested the Daughters at interrupting the Jobie clues.

After a quick trip to the store, the fun resumed with a Bethel 27 tradition – the pudding game! Image trying to feed someone standing on their head, on your head, it’s a lot like that.

The girls continued playing some of their favorite games and enjoying the snacks everyone brought to share, when Fremont Bethel 15 stopped by for a visit! Naturally the only way to greet them was including them in a Jobie pyramid. We’re sure their visit to Bethel 27 was a memorable one!

WORKSHOP

Bethel 27 was please to participate in the Fall “Sea of Adventure” Job’s Daughters workshop in Kearney. Both Daughters and Council learned a lot about Job’s and enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect with our many Jobie friends across the state.

ECCO PARK

T h e D a u g h t e r s h a v e continued their commitment to community service by cleaning ECCO park each month. Although, due to Bethel Guardian Emily’s oversight on when sundown occurs

after daylight savings time, the November cleaning in the dark was a bit more challenging than usual. After picking up what we could, we headed to Dairy Queen for dinner, and picked a new time to clean the park the following month.

LASERQUEST

For a little bit of family fun, why not shoot each other? That’s what Bethel 27 did on Nov. 20. Members and council brought their friends and family for a fun night at LaserQuest. A little bit of healthy competition never hurt anybody – unless you’re Dehnia’s boyfriend, Bruce, whose laser tag savvy and skill has earned him to not be allowed to play with us anymore. Sorry Bruce, sometimes we’re not the most gracious losers.

UPCOMING EVENTS

December 3 – Regular MeetingDecember 6 – Cleaning ECCO Park, followed by Christmas Decorating at the BethelDecember 12 – Uni-Place Masonic Holiday PartyDecember 18 – Movie night at the BethelDecember 20 – Regular Meeting, pizza before

Bethel 27 is looking forward to 2010. We have great plans for growth in the new year and hope you all will join us for our open installation of officers on Thurs., Jan. 7, at 7:00 p.m. Later in the month, a joint initiation with Bethel 62 on Jan 28, and we hope to have new members join our ranks at that time. Spring promises not only excitement for Bethel 27, but new life and growth too!

MORE INFORMATION!!

If you would like more information about Job’s Daughters or Bethel 27 and what we do, please contact Bethel Guardian, Emily Schoenleber at (402) 430-8153.

The prospective mem-bers took on the Jobies of Bethel 27 for a puzzling photo scavenger hunt. Photo courtesy of Emily Schoenleber

Members from 6 different Bethels teamed up to per-form the initiation ceremony in an impressive display of sisterhood. Photo courtesy of Emily Schoenleber

LaserQuest didn’t know what they were in for when the Jobies took over. Photo courtesy of Emily Schoenleber

Bethel 27 won’t let a lack of daylight keep them from taking pride in their park! Photo cour-tesy of Emily Schoenleber

You haven’t been to a Jobie party until you’ve played the PUDDING GAME! Photo courte-sy of Emily Schoenleber

A visit from Fremont Bethel 15. Photo cour-tesy of Emily Schoenleber

HOLIDAY GREETINGS &BEST WISHES FOR THE NEW YEAR

from

NEBRASKA GRAND ASSEMBLY International Order of the Rainbow for

Girls

There is a beautiful Rainbow over Nebraska with the Pot of Gold resting in Omaha on the East;

Today the Pot of Gold is filled with golden holiday decorations

tied up with bows of golden tinsel--our gift to you.

Next summer the Pot of Gold will glow from the reflections of Rainbow Girls

from around the world at the Supreme Assembly--a gift to us.

Tomorrow we hope to fill your Pot of Gold and to greet you in Omaha.

Today we wish you a blessed holiday season filled with thanksgiving, love, peace and

a rainbow of family and friends to surround you and celebrate with you.

Mrs. Thelma Domingo Miss Amber Naylor Mrs.Betty Garwood Member of the House of Gold Grand Worthy Advisor Supreme Deputy

The Rainbow Girls of Nebraska, Grand Officers, Grand Representatives, Nikki Ryan Miss Nebraska Rainbow, Mr. Nick Walsh State Rainbow Beau,

Ms. Elizabeth Imig State Rainbow Mom, Mr. Mike Stuhr State Rainbow Dad, Grand Executive Board, Grand Deputies, Rainbow Ambassadors