tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18721627785130686772024-03-05T13:28:33.599-09:00Grand Master's MusingsLog of Grand Master of Masons in Alaska's activities, visits, and thoughtsBo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.comBlogger100125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-90541849788627631322010-02-14T08:54:00.000-09:002010-02-14T08:55:49.543-09:00I have movedTo continue to follow me, please go to "<a href="http://akpgm09.blogspot.com/">The End of the Beginning</a>".Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-30640349398031818642010-02-08T20:26:00.002-09:002010-02-10T09:17:13.324-09:00The Fat Lady SangThis is the final posting of the “Grand Master’s Musings”. It has been an enjoyable ride, but as the newest Past Grand Master for the Grand Lodge of Alaska, it isn’t appropriate for me to continue to publish under this title. I am considering creating a new Blog, but with a little different focus. Please let me know your thoughts, if you are interested in my vision for the future of Freemasonry. Likewise, please offer your suggestions on what I might call that Blog.<br /><br />Thank you to all my loyal followers. I will edit this post with a link to a new Blog, if and when I decide to start one.<br /><br />Bo ClineBo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-26371189851043032032010-02-08T19:59:00.003-09:002010-02-08T20:08:52.490-09:00Grand Master's Message<span style="font-style: italic;">The following is the message of the Grand Master of Masons in Alaska, as published in the Annual Communication Message booklet.</span><br /><br />To the Members of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Alaska:<br /><br />Welcome to the Twenty-Ninth Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Alaska. It gives me great pleasure to extend a special greeting to the visiting Grand Masters and dignitaries from other jurisdictions. I know how busy your schedules are and I really appreciate that you have taken the time to come and share in the fellowship with us. Please do not hesitate to ask, if there is anything we can do to make your stay more enjoyable. <br /><br />APPOINTMENTS<br /><br />The following brethren were appointed to additional duties during the year:<br /><br />W James M. LeFlore as chairman of the Fund Raising committee with all sitting Worshipful Master as committee members<br /><br />MW Stephen L. Cox as my personal representative to the Grand Lodge of Kansas<br />MW John H. Grainger as my personal representative to the Grand Lodge of Russia<br />RW Johnnie L. Wallace as my personal representative to the Grand Lodge of Florida<br />RW Ronald L. Ackerman as my personal representative to the Grand Lodge of Idaho<br />RW Jerry W. Pinion as my personal representative to the Grand Lodge of Arizona<br />Brother Jerry W. Lewis as my personal representative to the Grand Lodge of Maine<br /><br />VW William Goodwin as the Grand Lodge of Alaska Representative to the Masonic Service Association of North America’s Hospital Visit Program<br /><br />RW Johnnie L. Wallace (Chair), RW Jerome P. (Jerry) Wasson, and MW Henry T. Dunbar as a special committee, working with a committee from the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Alaska to survey U.S. Prince Hall Grand Lodges which are in amity with their mainstream counterparts<br /><br />RW Jerome P. (Jerry) Wasson (Chair), VW V. Clifford Darnell, W James S. Zuke, and W David R. Oaks as a Ritual Performance Recognition Committee<br /><br />MW Joe Dees (Chair), MW Charles Corbin, and MW Don Chaffin as the Segregations and Reference Committee<br /><br />RW Philip S. Lee (Chair), RW Bobby W. Alexander, and VW James R. Herrington as the Grand Lodge Audit Committee<br /><br />NECROLOGY<br /><br />It is my sad duty to report that, since our last Annual Communication, 51 of our brethren have laid down their working tools and answered the call of the Great Architect of the Universe. We mourn their passing and share that sadness with their families. Our Grand Chaplain, Worshipful Brother Van O. Cheney, will conduct a memorial service later today.<br /><br />STATE OF THE CRAFT<br /><br />The Changing Face Of Alaskan Masonry – At the end of 2005, the average age of Alaskan Masons was 65 years old. At the end of 2009, that average age has dropped to 58½ years old. 12% of Alaskan Masons today have been members of the Craft for five years or less and are 42 years old on average. It is plain to see that Masonry in Alaska is getting younger. As I have traveled around the jurisdictions this year, I have experienced a renewed energy and enthusiasm in our Lodges. Our Lodges are branching out and becoming reconnected with their communities, their members enjoy each other’s company, they participate in more group activities, they are pursuing more Masonic education, and improving on their ritual presentations.<br /><br />Fragile Lodges – On the morning of October 18, 1867 at Baranov’s castle in Sitka, the flag of the United States was raised over the territory of Alaska for the first time. The fellow who raised that flag was Frederick Sloan Sargent, a Freemason. Freemasonry spread throughout the territory, where Masons tilled the soil, mined the ore, caught the fish, and cut the trees. Along the way, those Freemasons built the villages, towns, cities, and created communities throughout this great state. In each of those communities, Masons practiced their craft and established Lodges, Chapters, Courts, and Assemblies. As Masonry grew throughout the Country, it also grew in Alaska. Times have changed, and with that change remote Alaskan communities have seen a more dramatic decline in their social, civic, and religious institutions. The impact of this decline on Alaskan Freemasonry is a degradation of Masonry at those locations at the end of the trap line. Over the past decade we have experienced the loss of Masonry in the communities of Adak and Nome, we have seen lodges consolidated in Ketchikan, Juneau and Anchorage, and today Masonry in the communities of Petersburg, Cordova, Seward, and Kodiak is on life support. If we don’t see a reawakening in those communities, we are destined to see a loss of Masonry there, as well. Grand Lodge cannot enroll new members in and reinvigorate our constituent lodges. We can and will continue to provide resource material, officer training, assistance in performing degree work, and encouragement. The success or failure of any lodge however is dependent upon the energy of its members and Masonry’s acceptance within the community.<br /><br />Status of Law Suit – In November 2004, three members of the Grand Lodge of Alaska brought a civil suit against two elected Past Grand Lodge officers for actions they took while serving in their respective positions. At the Annual Communication of Grand Lodge in 2005, the Grand Master declared that Grand Lodge would assume responsibility for the legal fees of the two Past Grand Lodge officers. Also, at that Annual Communication, the members of Grand Lodge approved a resolution to make it a Masonic Offense to bring legal action against a lodge or Grand Lodge or against a member of the same without first complying with all of the provisions of the Alaska Masonic Code. In 2007, the suit was dismissed by the trial judge. In September of that year, the case was appealed by the plaintiffs to the State of Alaska Appellate Court. At the Annual Communications in 2007 and 2008, the members of Grand Lodge approved a $10 per capita special assessment to pay accumulated legal fees of the Past Grand Lodge officers. According to the State of Alaska Case Management System, the assigned judge has issued an initial draft of a judgment, which is being circulated for review by the entire court. As no legal fees have been accumulated since the last special assessment was approved by Grand Lodge, I will not be recommending any additional assessment this year. <br /><br />This year with the assistance and recommendation of Mrs. Debbie Ackerman, I have directed the Grand Treasurer to purchase Director and Officers Liability Insurance to cover the elected Grand Lodge officers in the performance of their duties. This insurance will remain part of the Grand Lodge’s insurance portfolio to protect Grand Lodge from any future litigation.<br /><br />Grand Lodge Endowments – In March of this year, the Grand Lodge received notification from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that the Alaska Masonic Foundation for Children (AMFC) had been granted charitable status under Section 501 (c) 3 of their code. AMFC is the Grand Lodge’s Charitable Endowment, which sponsors the Grand Lodge of Alaska Visual Arts and Music Scholarship (Edward O. Weisser Scholarship) and the Alaska Masonic Model Student Assistance Program. This year, I appealed to the members of our Grand Lodge for money to support the Scholarship portion of our endowment. Thanks to the generous contributions of Alaska Masons, Grand Lodge netted $10,614.07 for the endowment fund. When this money was added to the balance in the Scholarship fund, we now are in a position to distribute approximately $1,000 annually to deserving Alaskan High School Seniors to support their pursuit of further education in the arts and sustain the fund indefinitely. Additionally, I named a Scholarship Committee to develop criteria for selection of scholarship awardees, to promote the scholarship throughout Alaskan Secondary Schools, and to make a selection of the best qualified individuals to receive this year’s grant. As of this writing, the Scholarship Committee has made their selection and will present the award at the Public Opening of Grand Lodge. Future contributions to the scholarship fund will grow this endowment and make future disbursements even larger.<br /><br />The Alaska Masonic Model Student Assistance Program (AMMSAP) makes resources available to train Alaska’s Public School Teachers and Administrators on how to identify children at risk from abuse and to help them identify the tools available to prevent that abuse, so that Alaskan children can live healthy and productive lives. It is the goal of the AMFC, as identified in the Grand Lodge Strategic Plan, to grow this endowment through grants, outside funding sources, and the generous donations from Alaska’s Masonic Lodges and their members to make this a viable and fundamental program to help stem the abuse of children in Alaska.<br /><br />Internet – Our Grand Lodge web site was updated this past spring by WB Tad Dean. Subsequently, our site was reviewed by Greg Stewart of Freemason Information Blog. Tad made additional updates to address the suggestions made. Later, Tad informed me that, as he codes our web site using native “hypertext markup language” (html), he had reached the limit of his capability. He suggested that if Grand Lodge wished to have a more professional looking site with additional graphics, we needed to either contract out to have our site upgraded or purchase some sophisticated web authoring software with training to perform the upgrades in house. <br /><br />The Grand Lodge of Alaska web site is gradually becoming our face to the world and the primary means with which we communicate with our members. In my opinion, we need to enhance it to make it more attractive and user friendly. We also need to make it more accessible for adding and updating content. <br /><br />Alaska Masonic Family Group – I chose “Unity” as the theme for my year as your Grand Master and selected the trowel as the symbol to represent that theme. I figuratively wished to use the trowel to spread the cement of Brotherly Love and Affection among all Alaskan Masons, and had the specific goal of strengthening the bonds of friendship between the Grand Lodge of Alaska and our concordant bodies. I stand before you today to report that that goal has been met. On May 9, the Grand Lodge team met in fellowship with the leadership of each of the concordant Masonic bodies, at the first annual Alaska Masonic Family Group meeting. A major accomplishment of this meeting was a mutual agreement to share information between Grand Lodge and the concordant bodies and to create an Alaska Masonic Family events calendar. Additionally, the group agreed to make this meeting an annual occurrence.<br /><br />Grand Lodge Records – The Grand Lodge of Alaska maintains member records of all Alaskan Masons. The information contained in these records is provided by each of our constituent lodges through monthly and annual reports. This information is essentially necessary to credit our individual members for their accomplishments on their journey through Masonry and is a historical record of our heritage. Currently the information necessary to maintain these records is contained in numerous different places. Within our lodges, it is contained in dusty file folders, in turn of the century card files, on slips of paper, and on various computers in LODGEiCal, Microsoft Excel and Word, and numerous other electronic databases. Within the Grand Lodge this information is contained in five separate and distinct Microsoft Access Databases, in Microsoft Excel and Word, in file cabinets and boxes, and in the ever-present 19th Century card file. The information provided by our lodges to update the information at the Grand Lodge is provided through the US Mail on various lodge forms, slips of paper, backs of envelopes and scrawled on napkins. It is provided through voicemail and in countless formats over email. Brothers, the information contained in our records is our history and the heart and soul of Masonry. Two hundred years from now, we don’t want our future brethren to lament that we didn’t have the foresight to protect this information from loss and inaccuracy. <br /><br />Prince Hall Recognition – In April, while attending the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Alaska, I noted that we are one of the youngest Grand Lodges in North America, and as such, I believe we should be extending the hand of brotherly love and friendship to all Prince Hall Grand Lodges who meet the standards of regularity and have treaties of shared jurisdiction. I requested assistance from our Prince Hall Grand Master in extending the bonds of brotherhood to those Prince Hall Grand Lodges that meet the criteria previously mentioned and proposed that we form a joint committee to explore this possibility.<br /><br />The following day, in his message to the craft, the Grand Master, Most Worshipful Edward Miller recommended that a committee of Past Grand Masters be formed to work with the Grand Lodge of Alaska to expand on the brotherly love and friendship between our two jurisdictions. This recommendation was unanimously approved by the members present.<br /><br />I subsequently appointed RW Johnnie L. Wallace, MW Henry Dunbar, and RW Jerome (Jerry) Wasson to work with the members selected by MW Miller. <br /><br />OFFICIAL ACTS<br /><br />Proclamations, Edicts, & Rulings –<br />• Proclamation naming April 2009 Public Schools Month in Alaska<br />• Proclamation naming January 2010 Masonic Youth Month in Alaska<br />• Grand Master’s Ruling authorizing the Order of Eastern Star to place the Square and Compasses on their altar during their meeting in respect for their Masonic members<br />• Grand Master’s Ruling authorizing Master Masons to be clothed as Masons when visiting regular meetings of Masonic Youth in Alaska.<br />• Grand Master’s Ruling authorizing the Alaska Chapter of the Widow’s Sons Masonic Riders Association to operate within the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Alaska<br /><br />Orders Issued – I issued the following orders this past year:<br />• To Seward Lodge No. 6 an order to file their monthly reports with Grand Lodge<br />• To Mt. Juneau/ Gastineaux Lodge No. 21 an order to have Chapter 21 of the Alaska Masonic Code read at a stated communication<br /><br />Bylaws Approved – I approved the following lodge bylaw changes this past year:<br />• 3/9/2009, Kenai Lodge No. 11 – Changed the cost of Life Membership and the start time of stated meetings and designated the recipient of Lodge proceeds upon dissolution.<br />• 7/15/2009, Aurora Lodge No. 15 – Added the phrase “Non Profit Fraternal Organization” to the heading.<br />• 7/29/2009, Fairbanks Lodge No 12 – Designated the names of recipients of the Lodge’s charities.<br />• 10/27/2009, Eagle River No. 13 – Clarified of the wording in several sections.<br /><br />Dispensations & Assessments – I approved the following dispensations:<br /><br />• February 2009 – established a blanket waiver to allow Lodge members to be clothed as Masons when attending Church Services, Parades, and Community events.<br />• February 13, 2009 – granted Glacier Lodge No. 10 permission to change the date of their April stated communication.<br />• August 10, 2009 – granted Matanuska Lodge No. 7 permission to change the date of their September stated communication.<br />• August 20, 2009 – granted North Pole Lodge No. 16 permission to change their regular meeting place for the purpose of conducting a special communication.<br />• November 24, 2009 – granted North Pole Lodge No. 16 permission to change their regular meeting place for the purpose of conducting their installation of officers.<br /><br />Restorations – I restored Jonathan Winchester to good standing as a nonaffiliated Mason from a sentence of indefinite suspension in response to an appeal for clemency.<br /><br /><br />Requests for Amity – I submitted requests for amity to the following Grand Jurisdictions:<br /><br />Arizona, PHA<br />California, PHA<br />Colorado, PHA<br />District of Columbia, PHA<br />Hawaii, PHA<br />Illinois, PHA<br />Indiana, PHA<br />Iowa, PHA<br />Kansas, PHA<br />Maryland, PHA<br />Massachusetts, PHA<br />Michigan, PHA<br />Minnesota, PHA<br />Missouri, PHA <br />Nebraska, PHA<br />Nevada, PHA<br />New Jersey, PHA<br />New Mexico, PHA<br />New York, PHA<br />Ohio, PHA<br />Oklahoma, PHA<br />Ontario, PHA<br />Pennsylvania, PHA<br />Rhode Island, PHA<br />Texas, PHA<br />Virginia, PHA<br />Washington, PHA<br />Wisconsin, PHA<br /><br />RECOMMENDATIONS<br /><br />Scholarship Committee – This year, I created the Grand Lodge Scholarship Committee as a Grand Master’s Sub-Committee. The committee performed their task admirably and has established the Grand Lodge of Alaska Visual Arts and Music Scholarship as a sustainable grant to be awarded annually. I recommend that this committee be made a standing committee within Grand Lodge to promote the scholarship throughout Alaskan Secondary Schools and to make a selection of the best qualified individuals to receive the grant annually.<br /><br />Code Review Committee – The Masonic Code Review Committee identified numerous errors, inconsistencies, typos, and omissions in the Alaska Masonic Code. To avoid future irregularities in the Code and the level of effort needed to correct them, I recommend that Code Review Committee be given the authority to review all legislation passed at all future Annual Communications. Further, I recommend that this Committee be given the authority (with oversight by the Committee on Jurisprudence) to correct errors identified in the passed legislation and change other sections of the Code affected by the passed legislation to ensure consistency throughout the Code.<br /><br />Ritual Consolidation – I recommend that a resolution to combine the Grand Lodge of Alaska ciphers for the degrees of Masonry and the Alaska Monitor and Freemason’s Guide into a single Alaska Standard Work and Freemasons Guide be approved.<br /><br />Disciplinary Code – I recommend that the incoming Grand Master for 2010 appoint a Disciplinary Code Review Committee to review, rewrite, and restructure Part IV (Disciplinary Code) and other Sections of the Alaska Masonic Code that might be affected by a new Part IV to make Part IV of the Code more straightforward, consistent, and just.<br /><br />MORI – I recommend a $1.50 per capita increase in the Grand Lodge of Alaska annual assessment for the purpose of paying the annual recurring cost to access and maintain a Grand Lodge of Alaska “Masonic Online Registry Interface” (MORI). MORI is a unified lodge management system that integrates lodge records with Grand Lodge records. This system will replace the multitude of processes and management systems currently in use by our Lodges and Grand Lodge and ultimately lower the operating costs to both. The MORI system will virtually eliminate the deficiencies noted in the Grand Lodge Records section of the “State of the Craft” above.<br /><br />VISITATIONS<br /><br />This year I traveled throughout our jurisdiction and several Grand jurisdictions around the country. I also experienced the truly universality of Masonry through virtual travels around the globe by way of the World Wide Web. <br /><br />I visited each and every lodge within Alaska at least once, with the exception of Seward Lodge No. 6 and Fairbanks Lodge No. 12. During my visits to Fairbanks, Anchorage, the Kenai Peninsula, and the Matanuska Valley, I consolidated my visits to two and three lodges at one time. This consolidated “Grand Master’s Reception” proved to be popular approach to meet with the brethren from more than one lodge in a geographical area. It effectively reduced both the financial burden on the Grand Lodge Officers and provided Masons from adjoining Lodges an opportunity for fellowship. <br /><br />I represented the Grand Lodge of Alaska at several other Grand Jurisdictions and annual meetings of concordant bodies. In February, shortly after our Annual Communication in Kodiak, Beth and I travel to Garden Grove, CA to participate in the Western Conference of Masonic Grand Lodges and the Conference of Grand Masters of North America. In April, we attended the Grand Lodge of Hawaii in Honolulu and returned to Anchorage to attend the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Alaska. June found us traveling to the Grand Lodge of Oregon in Bend, the Grand Lodge of Washington in Spokane, the Grand Lodge of British Columbia and Yukon in Prince George, and Rainbow Grand Assembly in Fairbanks. In July, we traveled to the Imperial Shrine Session is San Antonio, TX. The last week in August I had the opportunity to attend the 50th Anniversary of my father’s lodge (TF McElroy Lodge No. 302) in Federal Way, WA. In September, we traveled to Dawson City, YT for International Days and London for both the Quarterly Communication of the United Grand Lodge of England and Taurus Lodge No. 3981. We traveled to San Francisco, CA for the Grand Lodge of California and Washington, DC for the Bi-annual Session of the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction in October. Finally, we traveled to the Grand Lodge of Washington’s Landmark on the Sound for the International Night Banquet and Reception of Lafayette Lodge No. 241 and then on to Reno, NV for the Grand Lodge of Nevada. The visit to Lafayette Lodge for International Night was an event I will long remember. It was very special to be counted among the many notable personalities from presidents, stage and screen stars, and famous Masons who signed the historic Lafayette bible. It was also special because the Landmark on the Sound, which was once called the Masonic Home at Zenith, was the building where I first met Beth during a Rainbow installation nearly forty years ago.<br /><br />My virtual travels on the Internet have had me visiting with brethren from all corners of the world over Masonic Forums like The Masonic Society, The Sanctum Sanctorum, and the Scottish Rite’s Freemason Network. I have also connected with Masons around the country through Facebook, Twitter, and several Masonic Blogs and Podcasts. One of my most pleasurable activities this year has been keeping a live journal (Blog) on the Internet called “Grand Master’s Musings”. I hope the brethren have enjoyed reading about my exploits this year as much as I have enjoyed posting them.<br /><br />APPRECIATION<br /><br />At my installation as your Grand Master, I remarked that I was going to work hard for you in the coming year. At that time, I also asked each Alaska Masons to work equally hard to help improve our Grand Lodge. I am exceedingly pleased by the time and effort that I have seen given in support of our Grand Lodge this year, I would especially like to recognize the following brethren:<br /><br />MW Charles E. Corbin for your imagination and enthusiasm in conceiving the Alaska Standard Work and Freemasons Guide and for the time and effort you spent preparing a consolidated ritual, so that I could take it around on my official visits to share this exciting concept with the brethren.<br /><br />VW Roger Hansen and VW James Herrington for your dogged determination and tireless effort in painstakingly scanning the Alaska Masonic Code for errors, omissions, and inconsistencies. It was Roger who remarked on many Grand Master’s visits that “the only thing consistent about the current version of the Code is that it is consistently inconsistent.”<br /><br />Brother Stephen Wright and the Scholarship Committee for accepting the challenge of creating guidelines for the Alaska Visual Arts and Music Scholarship and for taking the bit in their teeth to promote the scholarship throughout Alaska, screen candidates, and make our first scholarship selection this year.<br /><br />VW Ken Creamer, chairman of the Jurisprudence Committee, for your good counsel and your always thoughtful review of my proposed decisions.<br /><br />VW Tom Schram for your uncommon work ethic managing the Grand Lodge office.<br /><br />W John Bishop, the Grand Lecturer, for traveling throughout the jurisdiction on your own nickel to present Lodges of Instruction. John has been an excellent traveling companion, accompanying me this year, while we drove on many dark and winding roads across the wilds of Alaska.<br /><br />W Tad Dean for completing the much needed facelift to Grand Lodge Web Page.<br /><br />MW Jared Decker for graciously volunteering and dutifully publishing the Grand Lodge newsletter, “Light of the Great Land” this year. It should be noted that this is the first time we have published a Grand Lodge newsletter since 2004.<br /><br />Juneau Valley Scottish Rite for their very generous contribution of $50,000 to the Grand Lodge permanent fund.<br /><br />VW Russ Shivers and my District Deputy for taking on the responsibility and conducting Leadership Training throughout the jurisdiction.<br /><br />W John Paul Jones and the members of the Sessions and Arrangements committee for your assistance in making this year’s Annual Communication a highlight of Alaskan hospitality. I extend a special thanks to the members of my mother lodge, Matanuska No. 7, for all their support and generous contribution to the refreshments in the hospitality lounge.<br /><br />All Worshipful Masters for all of your hard work in managing your Lodges and your dedication to the Craft.<br /><br />MW Jared Decker, RW Johnnie Wallace, RW Ron Ackerman, RW Jerry Pinion, RW Jim Grubbs, and RW Jerry Wasson for your companionship and your good counsel and advice this year.<br /><br />All Alaska Masons who contributed to the Alaska Visual Arts and Music Scholarship and exceeded my wildest dreams by giving more than $10,000.<br /><br />And, to my wife Beth for all of her companionship and her tireless work behind the scenes this year. Beth, you are my best friend and the love of my life. This would have been an extremely lonely journey without you.<br /><br />This has been an extraordinary experience and one that I will never forget. I thank you, the Grand Lodge of Alaska, for your confidence in me and the honor of serving you as your Grand Master this past year.<br /><br /><br /><br />John R. “Bo” Cline<br />Grand MasterBo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-24485955840560001812010-02-08T19:32:00.009-09:002010-02-08T19:47:53.914-09:0029th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of AlaskaThe Twenty Ninth Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge ended Friday afternoon, February 5th, with the installation of officers for 2010. All of the officers in the progressive line moved up one chair. MW <span style="font-weight: bold;">Johnnie L. Wallace</span> was installed as Grand Master, RW <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ronald L. Ackerman</span> as Deputy Grand Master, RW <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jerry W. Pinion </span>as Senior Grand Warden, RW <span style="font-weight: bold;">James Grubbs</span> as Grand Treasurer, and RW <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jerry Wasson</span> as Grand Secretary. RW <span style="font-weight: bold;">James R. Herrington</span> is the new kid on the block, having been elected and installed as Junior Grand Warden.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixWUhuoLr78pgMNkwmVI5ELxbuSOagETpz2qiMnzRM40-8qyzqqmqTHJIMHZfIGXTtw-AHBgYvc8YgjkykcwqYacA1IhWlqF2cR4d7_lrviqoc5TmOBVag28gDAhLUw7gHxKvrsZoJiBc/s1600-h/IMGP2171.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixWUhuoLr78pgMNkwmVI5ELxbuSOagETpz2qiMnzRM40-8qyzqqmqTHJIMHZfIGXTtw-AHBgYvc8YgjkykcwqYacA1IhWlqF2cR4d7_lrviqoc5TmOBVag28gDAhLUw7gHxKvrsZoJiBc/s320/IMGP2171.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436100221641479682" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE5hEmnFOzHO3N7ZoJgXUe8onydGq1k9BUXh9KK4xhCL6lvmwIA2QxyW0FhwPe2JmQbYaU7R_uEMA1gJvmiPhWcULd0FPEEDthvZu6qUxdWDzYIFwePv1Xe7qqev5-xflpRFYFEtLf8kE/s1600-h/IMGP2174.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE5hEmnFOzHO3N7ZoJgXUe8onydGq1k9BUXh9KK4xhCL6lvmwIA2QxyW0FhwPe2JmQbYaU7R_uEMA1gJvmiPhWcULd0FPEEDthvZu6qUxdWDzYIFwePv1Xe7qqev5-xflpRFYFEtLf8kE/s320/IMGP2174.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436100470357472306" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-n4PWPRoFgQYr7OqNbTtRqXV636VOvx8mNwQfzrpjzhtaAr6WsXnzdSWJqvX7f1w8NLW7dylS3P9l8QjoqCRxXXJ0c08L5AvgX_n1ycjMPl9XwHc9V0JJ4NEU6EfOlMMc0AYgayN3QCI/s1600-h/IMGP2175.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-n4PWPRoFgQYr7OqNbTtRqXV636VOvx8mNwQfzrpjzhtaAr6WsXnzdSWJqvX7f1w8NLW7dylS3P9l8QjoqCRxXXJ0c08L5AvgX_n1ycjMPl9XwHc9V0JJ4NEU6EfOlMMc0AYgayN3QCI/s320/IMGP2175.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436100684530582738" /></a><br />The festivities, however, began on Wednesday evening with the Grand Master’s Banquet. Dignitaries from all of the concordant bodies as well as distinguished guests form the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Alaska and the Grand Lodges of Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wyoming, and British Columbia and Yukon were introduced. It was a very enjoyable evening, which concluded with a wonderful choral presentation by <a href="http://cantoraarctica.org/members.htm">Cantora Arctica</a>, a group of mostly Mat-Su Valley women of all ages and backgrounds -- joining energies once a week to sing! Other special guests included my parents (WB <span style="font-weight: bold;">John Kelly Cline</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Marge Cline</span>), Beth’s Parents (Brother <span style="font-weight: bold;">Donald S. Dodds</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Leeann Dodds</span>), Beth’s Uncle and Aunt (Brother <span style="font-weight: bold;">Brian Winsor</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jill Winsor</span>), Beth’s brother and his wife (<span style="font-weight: bold;">David S. Dodds</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Michele Dodds</span>), our son, his wife, and our new grandson (<span style="font-weight: bold;">Joshua Cline</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kenyatta Cline</span>, and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Zachary Cline</span>), and our daughter (<span style="font-weight: bold;">Megan Cline</span>).<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-4piash7YQvPiR0SbYdvNoHgRhd9Pj4YEsH10ZJg6AE7Mvr6RV1bIrGcMFGBo6JEjoyYdJ_L04LEQbrRMJoWDKzm2G7BhMdkY5bdvav7nuYCPOpzeP_0TOMIOiNARIgSDrc6dne0P2qM/s1600-h/IMGP2180.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-4piash7YQvPiR0SbYdvNoHgRhd9Pj4YEsH10ZJg6AE7Mvr6RV1bIrGcMFGBo6JEjoyYdJ_L04LEQbrRMJoWDKzm2G7BhMdkY5bdvav7nuYCPOpzeP_0TOMIOiNARIgSDrc6dne0P2qM/s320/IMGP2180.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436099939078422578" /></a>Grand Lodge officially opened on Thursday morning with a welcome to the city of Anchorage by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mr. Larry Baker</span>, Senior Policy Advisor for the Municipality of Anchorage, representing Mayor Dan Sullivan. Additional features of the Public Opening included the presentation of the Flags of the United States by the Heroes of ’76, welcome by various members of the Alaska Masonic Youth Groups, and the first ever presentation of the Alaska Masonic Visual Arts and Music Scholarship. Following the public opening, Grand Lodge was opened in ritual form for its regular business.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqGdDWGjlKW1T36VA1xpus9PT5fWRxyNhjZfZP9BnclCKnvKRUaDgz9pXjnIzF1rjDq_X72Vajh4CktkPGPaBd8-HcCMy0d3THlqPyn7cPyqLKAY2cdufDyqvNfzp3Y7lRgdaVf7S68fA/s1600-h/IMGP2182.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqGdDWGjlKW1T36VA1xpus9PT5fWRxyNhjZfZP9BnclCKnvKRUaDgz9pXjnIzF1rjDq_X72Vajh4CktkPGPaBd8-HcCMy0d3THlqPyn7cPyqLKAY2cdufDyqvNfzp3Y7lRgdaVf7S68fA/s320/IMGP2182.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436098550874662338" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPx_SzYpp3OmfN_6o8MdB_lC1RQLFGmVn8oMcUKQTyqMdzVpmtWRZz1TKNQovPYeE-31FDTFM_VHGF7tVqFme8Y6-PEv2twNAlhT-hCsnoayYMZzfUlvl975RwGY-OAVgf4nbs6S4UweY/s1600-h/IMGP2184.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPx_SzYpp3OmfN_6o8MdB_lC1RQLFGmVn8oMcUKQTyqMdzVpmtWRZz1TKNQovPYeE-31FDTFM_VHGF7tVqFme8Y6-PEv2twNAlhT-hCsnoayYMZzfUlvl975RwGY-OAVgf4nbs6S4UweY/s320/IMGP2184.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436098904641825922" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht1QUzkQ_TPv4pLM5ZF1CZH1Wk6lIdAOzCXc8Ay6vQdEnCRi0t4hAdFfpCeoVlSzjy5DH9K9cL65z4ekDfuLV_ijGk151U3b_dNh__JEK2D39-8mTIkZXIalB-00-_aiaGyC8Zv24-4Eg/s1600-h/IMGP2185.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht1QUzkQ_TPv4pLM5ZF1CZH1Wk6lIdAOzCXc8Ay6vQdEnCRi0t4hAdFfpCeoVlSzjy5DH9K9cL65z4ekDfuLV_ijGk151U3b_dNh__JEK2D39-8mTIkZXIalB-00-_aiaGyC8Zv24-4Eg/s320/IMGP2185.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436099190532458338" border="0" /></a>The Fellowship Banquet was held on Thursday evening with most of the same guests as Wednesday evening’s Grand Master’s Banquet. In addition to the friendship, fellowship, and good food, presentations of various Masonic awards were made, and a very enjoyable talk was given by <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mark A. Tabbert</span>, Director of Collections for the George Washington Masonic Memorial in Alexandria Virginia. Awards presented included the Grand Master’s Award of Excellence, the James A. Williams perpetual award, the Buckley C. Hazen perpetual award, and Military recognition presentations. The Grand Lodge of California made a presentation of a crystal gavel to RW Johnnie L. Wallace and the Grand Master was given a special presentation by the Grand Lodge of Oregon, a Certificate of Appreciation from the Masonic Service Association of North America, and a Certificate of Appreciation from the George Washington Masonic Memorial. I was also given my grandfather’s Masonic pocket piece by my mother, which proclaimed that he was made a Mason in St. Andrews Lodge No. 35 in Renton, WA in 1920. I also had the pleasure of presenting the Alaska Mason of the Year medallion for 2009 (name of the recipient omitted pending formal presentation in Lodge).<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3wqtfwfNVqtPGr9Z97Y52poGr1qlg1NiijRjOjCmwxOGkBwaACMjwaxluftI2mr3qoApRYVIaV9FXvjZQowuyOGBxvjHmBiiwu5EUzX9Qq9kWdizDwuq52BgpgQkBJYyrwMFg3Ir3GVI/s1600-h/IMGP2189.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3wqtfwfNVqtPGr9Z97Y52poGr1qlg1NiijRjOjCmwxOGkBwaACMjwaxluftI2mr3qoApRYVIaV9FXvjZQowuyOGBxvjHmBiiwu5EUzX9Qq9kWdizDwuq52BgpgQkBJYyrwMFg3Ir3GVI/s320/IMGP2189.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436099480501710850" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The business of Grand Lodge was completed by 11:30 AM Friday morning, in time to break for refreshments before calling to order again at 1:00 PM to complete the balloting and announce the officers for 2010. Legislation that were passed by the members of Grand Lodge included those resolutions related to improving the Alaska Masonic Code, a resolution to make the Scholarship Committee a standing committee of Grand Lodge, a resolution to delete the requirement for the Secretary to read the minutes of the previous stated meeting at the succeeding stated meeting, an emergent resolution to consolidate the three ciphers for the degrees of Masonry with the monitorial work into a single Alaska Standard Work and Freemasons Guide. Recommendations that were approved by the members of Grand Lodge included the authorization of the Code Review Committee to make all portions of the Code consistent with any legislation that was passed during Grand Lodge, the approval of a $1.50 increase in the Grand Lodge per capita assessment to the Lodges for the purpose of paying the recurring charges for the Masonic Online Registry Interface (MORI), and the recommendation to create a Disciplinary Code Review Committee to review, rewrite, and restructure Part IV of the Alaska Masonic Code.<br /><br />This was a very rewarding Grand Lodge session and I owe special thanks to the officers and members of our Grand Lodge, most especially to my Sessions and Arrangements Committee, to the officers and members of my Mother Lodge (Matanuska Lodge No. 7), and to my wife Beth. Thanks to all of you who made this a special year in my Masonic career.Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-14083204375881162002010-02-08T08:21:00.007-09:002010-02-08T08:33:46.823-09:00Ground Hog Day<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw8iHTFv0k01gj0y-F4wbiiv-dtdwYhMWINqvOuubiD1LFig8e5oiDd0pr1jH84SDK2oOeLIRjeY2pulmX_bmIyEVSE6VnhvzkGCm0IlyKO5s9gGVKWNn4LPomq7p_czLTcg7ohmplGts/s1600-h/IMGP2151.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw8iHTFv0k01gj0y-F4wbiiv-dtdwYhMWINqvOuubiD1LFig8e5oiDd0pr1jH84SDK2oOeLIRjeY2pulmX_bmIyEVSE6VnhvzkGCm0IlyKO5s9gGVKWNn4LPomq7p_czLTcg7ohmplGts/s320/IMGP2151.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435924653310411778" /></a> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1M4ogcBxe4jYSdAl2A8eTWntU6w3ud7vW_qoenbLt2V5YL5fDJ9CWPkJxTVKniHqURfQRdsjVbbd54FLiSB5I1WZUBsLtBU6RiYEHEvJqMbAMOrp1WcN3iAMWCAXVhK_23mdS8NJiN3Y/s1600-h/IMGP2152.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1M4ogcBxe4jYSdAl2A8eTWntU6w3ud7vW_qoenbLt2V5YL5fDJ9CWPkJxTVKniHqURfQRdsjVbbd54FLiSB5I1WZUBsLtBU6RiYEHEvJqMbAMOrp1WcN3iAMWCAXVhK_23mdS8NJiN3Y/s320/IMGP2152.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435924933319608226" /></a>On Tuesday, February 2 the Alaska Masonic Library and Museum Foundation, assisted by the Alaska 2nd Circle Committee of the Masonic Society conducted its first annual fundraiser. The funds raised will be used to cover operating expenses of our Library and Museum. This event took place the night before the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Alaska and included several visitors from around the state and around the country, including visitors from the Grand Lodges of California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Wyoming, Vermont, and Nevada. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4sX9gandcwp_kApGTdzwOXb2qcYcxs0pGRHgWhWdrsKM3lVUcnYa_Bgp90eLF0Xspu-ObKKxYofJ18tvirIUzG0XUfZgV1Q5W-SLT9nF8-zrrLY1yh7rdtxoGOw14rMzyRTfdPfP6U7w/s1600-h/IMGP2161.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4sX9gandcwp_kApGTdzwOXb2qcYcxs0pGRHgWhWdrsKM3lVUcnYa_Bgp90eLF0Xspu-ObKKxYofJ18tvirIUzG0XUfZgV1Q5W-SLT9nF8-zrrLY1yh7rdtxoGOw14rMzyRTfdPfP6U7w/s320/IMGP2161.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435926191050941010" /></a><br />Fellowship was a key ingredient of the evening, where our guests enjoyed each other’s company, while participating in a “Paring Food with Beer” presentation. German food and German beer highlighted the festivities, and the participants received an education about different beers and ales, how they enhanced the food being enjoyed, and how they were enhanced by it. From my perspective, it was a very enjoyable evening, and I heard several guests remark what a great time they were having. It was plain to see that the evening was planned to please everyone, and to unite them in the grand design of being happy and communicating happiness.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz6DGyma-6DyffQfN0Io-JgzCG1QczmT-mVJxLf6SvXds78TsGAgeWWDxgv6D69j2Qz8hJVJ27ZZM7R4gNFJk-AVvg9xM7D718MHXd3F0kT1OKrAa_IoANJsnvcaqtIYCmMqMJFrzEqdo/s1600-h/IMGP2154.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz6DGyma-6DyffQfN0Io-JgzCG1QczmT-mVJxLf6SvXds78TsGAgeWWDxgv6D69j2Qz8hJVJ27ZZM7R4gNFJk-AVvg9xM7D718MHXd3F0kT1OKrAa_IoANJsnvcaqtIYCmMqMJFrzEqdo/s320/IMGP2154.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435925889602256050" /></a>The fundraising activity included a silent auction of various items donated for the purpose. The auction was enthusiastically received and bidding was quite lively, with some items being bid up far above their market value. The following is a list of the various Masonic books, which had been signed by their authors and what they sold for:<TABLE><br /><TR> <TH>Book</TH> <TH>Author</TH> <TH>Donated by</TH> <TH>Sold for</TH> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Building Boaz and Building Hiram</TD> <TD>Dr. John Nagy</TD> <TD>Dr. John Nagy</TD> <TD>$40</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Lifting the Veil</TD> <TD>Dr. John Nagy</TD> <TD>Dr. John Nagy</TD> <TD>$10</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>American Freemasons</TD> <TD>Mark Tabbert</TD> <TD>Bo Cline</TD> <TD>$225</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>The 32 Secret Paths of Solomon and The Alchemical Keys to Masonic Ritual (2 sets)</TD> <TD>Timothy Hogan</TD> <TD>Timothy Hogan</TD> <TD>$30</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Committed to the Flames</TD> <TD>S. Brent Morris & Arturo DeHoyos</TD> <TD>S. Brent Morris & Arturo DeHoyos</TD> <TD>$45</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Idiots Guide to Freemasonry</TD> <TD>S. Brent Morris</TD> <TD>S. Brent Morris</TD> <TD>$30</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Morgan – The Scandal that Shook Freemasonry</TD> <TD>Stephen Dafoe</TD> <TD>Bo Cline</TD> <TD>$25</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Masonic Enlightenment</TD> <TD>Michael Poll</TD> <TD>Michael Poll</TD> <TD>$12</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Mystic Fire, Rosicrucian Writings of A.E. Waite</TD> <TD>Michael Poll</TD> <TD>Michael Poll</TD> <TD>$25</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>The Masters and the Path</TD> <TD>Leadbeater</TD> <TD>Michael Poll</TD> <TD>$20</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Collected Rosicrucian Thought</TD> <TD>Michael Poll</TD> <TD>Michael Poll</TD> <TD>$20</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Robert’s Rules of Order (Masonic)</TD> <TD>Michael Poll</TD> <TD>Michael Poll</TD> <TD>$25</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Our Stations and Places</TD> <TD>Meacham</TD> <TD>Michael Poll</TD> <TD>$22</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Masonic Words and Phrases</TD> <TD>Michael Poll</TD> <TD>Michael Poll</TD> <TD>$10</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Knights & Freemasons</TD> <TD>Michael Poll</TD> <TD>Michael Poll</TD> <TD>$42</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>A Reporter’s Life (First Edition)</TD> <TD>Walter Cronkite</TD> <TD>Judy & Richard Fletcher</TD> <TD>$120</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>The Reef (First Edition)</TD> <TD>Nora Roberts</TD> <TD>Judy & Richard Fletcher</TD> <TD>$30</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Deciphering the Lost Symbol</TD> <TD>Chris Hodapp</TD> <TD>Chris Hodapp</TD> <TD>$30</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Solomon’s Builders</TD> <TD>Chris Hodapp</TD> <TD>Chris Hodapp</TD> <TD>$30</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>A Laudable Pursuit</TD> <TD>Knights of the North</TD> <TD>Chris Hodapp</TD> <TD>$20</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Freemasons for Dummies</TD> <TD>Chris Hodapp</TD> <TD>Chris Hodapp</TD> <TD>$25</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Conspiracy Theories & Secret Societies for Dummies</TD> <TD>Chris Hodapp</TD> <TD>Chris Hodapp</TD> <TD>$20</TD> </TR><br /><TR> <TD>Templar Code for Dummies</TD> <TD>Chris Hodapp</TD> <TD>Chris Hodapp</TD> <TD>$15</TD> </TR><br /></TABLE> Overall, the Alaska Masonic Library and Museum Foundation raised over $2,000. I wish to thank all those generous people who donated items to this cause and all those who took part in the auction and purchased those items.Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-63825939359639848662010-02-07T21:02:00.006-09:002010-02-08T02:33:49.022-09:00Log of the Week of January 17thIts been a while since I last posted anything on this blog. During that time the <a href="http://mngrandmaster09.blogspot.com/">Grand Master of Minnesota</a> made 18 post, the <a href="http://gmohio.blogspot.com/">Grand Master of Ohio</a> made 15 posts, and <a href="http://freemasonsfordummies.blogspot.com/">Chris Hodapp</a> made 24 posts. Its time I caught up on my journal.<br /><br />On Sunday, January 17, 2010 I attended the installation of officers for Anchorage Chapter No. 8, Order of the Eastern Star. Sister <span style="font-weight:bold;">Iris Crothers</span>, P.M. was installed as Worthy Matron and Brother <span style="font-weight:bold;">Steve Lee</span>, P.P. was install as Worthy Patron for 2010. Sister B<span style="font-weight:bold;">everly Keto</span>, P.M. and Brother <span style="font-weight:bold;">Clarence Keto</span>, P.P. were installed as Associate Matron and Associate Patron respectively. The installing officers included:<br /><ol> <ul>Sister <span style="font-weight:bold;">Alice Chaney</span>, P.M. - Installing Matron</ul><br /><ul>Brother <span style="font-weight:bold;">Van Chaney</span>, P.P. - Installing Patron</ul><br /><ul>Brother <span style="font-weight:bold;">Damon Shin</span>e, WP, PHA - Installing Chaplain</ul><br /><ul>Sister <span style="font-weight:bold;">Michelle Williams</span>, AM, PHA - Installing Secretary</ul><br /><ul>Sister <span style="font-weight:bold;">Victoria Ault</span>, P.M. - Installing Marshal</ul><br /><ul>Sister <span style="font-weight:bold;">Pat Dart</span> - Installing Musician</ul></ol><br />Each year the newly elected Worthy Matron and Worthy Patron choose at least one philanthropic endeavor for their year, besides our Masonic Youth. The selection for this year is "<a href="http://www.caresforkids.com/">Cares for Kids</a>". these kids are some of the most highly neglected and abused children in Anchorage.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXkTsS83z5iZzOTnpVsHEMe_rhTYeeU2iTs6FM7dcVIvGwHfJV9pSo-SE9mWZJsSYy_jKbqLII71pgEQLFVsE9TVkF-zgFsUpMhKU0eZD3IypuMd8QFDSDCS5e-yVE8Nzwb585Kut330c/s1600-h/IMGP2132.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXkTsS83z5iZzOTnpVsHEMe_rhTYeeU2iTs6FM7dcVIvGwHfJV9pSo-SE9mWZJsSYy_jKbqLII71pgEQLFVsE9TVkF-zgFsUpMhKU0eZD3IypuMd8QFDSDCS5e-yVE8Nzwb585Kut330c/s320/IMGP2132.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435833868337599938" /></a>On Saturday, January 23, 2010, I attended the 120th Installation of Officers for Nugget Assembly No. 13, International Order of the Rainbow for Girls. The installation took place at the Anchorage Masonic Center, where Miss <span style="font-weight:bold;">Janelle vonBrigelen</span> was installed as Worthy Advisor. Miss <span style="font-weight:bold;">Chloe Stoces</span>, Miss <span style="font-weight:bold;">Tiffany Cameron</span>, Miss <span style="font-weight:bold;">Jamie Wooding</span>, and Miss <span style="font-weight:bold;">Maressa Ottman</span> were installed as Worthy Associate Advisor, Charity, Hope, and Faith respectively.<br /><br />The Worthy Advisor's theme for her term is "Dancing Through Life", and she chose as her bible verse Psalm 30 verse 11, which reads: <blockquote>"You turned my waiting into dancing, you removed my sack cloth and clothed me with joy."</blockquote>Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-88593205657527140912010-01-17T11:33:00.007-09:002010-01-17T11:54:12.458-09:00Log of the Week of January 4th<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrpRir6t-Wf_npeqR17iL0hQxOlieKAOu1MY9XD-Jg-IeZTKRGggBkffIvo6sio4GumCtf5DsLBjO2QcWSp97sfJsqJF-MAMpIep_46yEIi5rB3MqHAN3g95KZA5iy0SXGLQO0xggYWOc/s1600-h/oes+loge.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 263px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrpRir6t-Wf_npeqR17iL0hQxOlieKAOu1MY9XD-Jg-IeZTKRGggBkffIvo6sio4GumCtf5DsLBjO2QcWSp97sfJsqJF-MAMpIep_46yEIi5rB3MqHAN3g95KZA5iy0SXGLQO0xggYWOc/s320/oes+loge.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427814238805014914" /></a> <span style="font-weight:bold;">DENALI CHAPTER No. 16 INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS:</span><br />On Monday evening, January 4, I attended the Installation of Officers of Denali Chapter No. 16, Order of the Eastern Star. Sister <span style="font-weight:bold;">Bonnie Duncan</span> and Brother <span style="font-weight:bold;">Al Schuerger</span> were installed Worthy Matron and Worthy Patron. It was great to see Bonnie in the East and a bit of a surprise. The surprise was because I had always associated Bonnie with the Great Alaska Council of the Boy Scouts where she was the training chair for the Denali District. Its also interesting to note that, although a coincidence, the OES Chapter and the Boy Scout District share the same name. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">MATANUSKA LODGE No. 7 STATED MEETING:</span><br />As Tuesday, January 5 was the first Tuesday of the month, it was time for the stated communication of Matanuska Lodge No. 7, my “Mother Lodge”. This was our first meeting for 2010 and WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Ted Hutchinson’s</span> first time in the East as Master of the Lodge. Ted had an extremely well planned out meeting, which he executed in a superior manner. Assisting WB Ted were WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Dennis Oakland</span> (SW) and Bro. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Mitch Coulthard</span> (JW). The officers performed the opening and closing ritual with precision, which was a pleasure to see from such newly installed officers. It was also a pleasure to see so many sideliners, who enjoyed wonderful fellowship in the dining room before the meeting. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJ1afvFonXD52JH7vtR2yCTx_0RUQfd84mhyphenhyphenRuLpg0h5yBlI1z9Od87_SdHd3Hm-CDklDKJgK5UyvAH2lRR9Euhn88rDTip1wtnUzrpCIpppYITl25UkiRVnUuDINOruTio4P2-lUQRI/s1600-h/ANC+17+installation.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 310px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJ1afvFonXD52JH7vtR2yCTx_0RUQfd84mhyphenhyphenRuLpg0h5yBlI1z9Od87_SdHd3Hm-CDklDKJgK5UyvAH2lRR9Euhn88rDTip1wtnUzrpCIpppYITl25UkiRVnUuDINOruTio4P2-lUQRI/s320/ANC+17+installation.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427814055898303522" /></a><span style="font-weight:bold;">INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS – ANCHORAGE LODGE No. 17:</span><br />Wednesday evening, January 6 found me back in Anchorage for the 94th installation of officers of <a href="http://anclodge.dnsalias.org/">Anchorage Lodge No. 17</a>. Brother <span style="font-weight:bold;">James S. Zuke</span> was installed as Worshipful Master for 2010. Installed along with WB James were VW <span style="font-weight:bold;">Thomas L. Schram</span> (SW), Bro. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Mark A. Sledge</span> (JW), VW <span style="font-weight:bold;">Michael B. Swensen</span> (Treasurer), and VW <span style="font-weight:bold;">Jim R. McMichael</span> (Secretary). It was a delight to see the members of Job’s Daughters Bethel No. 1 escorting the officers into the lodge room. The installing officers included VW <span style="font-weight:bold;">Dennis R. Thayer</span> (Installing Officer), RW <span style="font-weight:bold;">Johnnie L. Wallace</span> (Installing Marshall), Bro. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Robert K. Kelly</span>, Jr. (Chaplain), W <span style="font-weight:bold;">Glen E. Josey</span> (Installing Secretary), and W <span style="font-weight:bold;">Timothy Jackson</span> (Installing Tyler). Some of special guests at the installation were RW <span style="font-weight:bold;">Curtis Harris</span>, Senior Grand Warden and W <span style="font-weight:bold;">Franklin Dunbar</span>, Assistant Grand Secretary of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Alaska.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHnuVnDrJPnF_MgD1pQUWV6G_xUJWhVNXhF-E1rlC12V5wuY0D96CJLHDmpMsIyTA9jEUiGiTP61KwVVL-PwS85nvC3-B1EOh9USGxdzVgqa5q_RMG2NjHgQeKw3XM4wlKovOkyxT12xQ/s1600-h/al+aska+shrine+logo.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 202px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHnuVnDrJPnF_MgD1pQUWV6G_xUJWhVNXhF-E1rlC12V5wuY0D96CJLHDmpMsIyTA9jEUiGiTP61KwVVL-PwS85nvC3-B1EOh9USGxdzVgqa5q_RMG2NjHgQeKw3XM4wlKovOkyxT12xQ/s320/al+aska+shrine+logo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427813604546136258" /></a><span style="font-weight:bold;">AL ASKA SHRINE ANNUAL MEETING:</span><br />Saturday, January 9 was a very busy day Masonically, with the Al Aska Shrine Annual Meeting and installation of officers and the installation of officers for International Order of the Job’s Daughters Bethel No. 1, Matanuska Chapter No. 14 Order of the Eastern Star, and Sterling Lodge No. 22. It is hard to be in two places at once, so I had to choose my participation. As I was invited to be an installing officer for the Sterling installation, I opted to stop in Anchorage for the Al Aska Shrine annual meeting. The election of officers for 2010 took place during this meeting and the following Nobles were elected as the leaders of the Divan:<br /><br />Potentate – <span style="font-weight:bold;">David Worel</span><br />Chief Rabban – <span style="font-weight:bold;">V. J. “Nik” Nicholas</span><br />Assistant Rabban – <span style="font-weight:bold;">Bruce Cling</span><br />High Priest and Prophet – <span style="font-weight:bold;">Paul Bordale</span><br />Oriental Guide – <span style="font-weight:bold;">Jeff Polizzotto</span><br />Treasurer – <span style="font-weight:bold;">Fred Angleton</span><br />Recorder – <span style="font-weight:bold;">Kip Clapper</span><br /><br />The installation of officers, which I unfortunately missed, occurred later in the evening. Typically, the Potentate’s Ball would have followed after the installation; however Illustrious Worel has chosen to have his festivities at the conclusion of the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Alaska, beginning Friday, February 5. Dave has planned a whole host activities and events to participate in. Please go to the <a href="http://www.alaska-mason.org/files/Potentate%27s%20Ball%20Invitation.pdf">Grand Lodge of Alaska Website</a> for information about the activities. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHtrzJ8uDEWTueZBZ_YRmSxSOML5xSVJiM8D3Mx6Oq6kAe6hba5fqVimTe5lFWm63ekXZr9plfhLEmIQqOvsxpJTL4QO2Qk6VPjld9czKYcwexB5vg20PYZXQNYKAJGycqWMcbbhO0YLU/s1600-h/Sterling+installation.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 221px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHtrzJ8uDEWTueZBZ_YRmSxSOML5xSVJiM8D3Mx6Oq6kAe6hba5fqVimTe5lFWm63ekXZr9plfhLEmIQqOvsxpJTL4QO2Qk6VPjld9czKYcwexB5vg20PYZXQNYKAJGycqWMcbbhO0YLU/s320/Sterling+installation.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427813136148980962" /></a><span style="font-weight:bold;">INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS – STERLING LODGE No. 22:</span><br />Sterling, Alaska is located on the beautiful Kenai Peninsula and alongside the World Famous Kenai River. A couple of months ago, I had been invited by MW Les Little to be his Installing Marshall for his progression to the East, yet again, as Worshipful Master of Sterling Lodge No. 22. The installation took place on Saturday, January 9. Sterling is a little over 350 miles round trip from my home and January in Alaska means winter driving conditions. As such, I decided to leave home a little early to make sure I arrived in time. Along the way, I stopped in Anchorage to attend the annual meeting of Al Aska Shrine, where I picked up my driving companion, RW <span style="font-weight:bold;">Johnnie Wallace</span> (DGM), for our trip along the <a href="http://adventure.howstuffworks.com/scenic-drive-in-alaska-seward-highway-ga.htm">Scenic Seward Highway</a>. <br /><br />Johnnie and I arrived in Sterling just in time to join the other installing officers (MW <span style="font-weight:bold;">Henry Dunbar</span> and MW <span style="font-weight:bold;">Harry Koenen</span>) for their 10th installation of officers. In addition to MW <span style="font-weight:bold;">Les Little</span> (WM), the other officers installed included Bro. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Bill Roberts</span> (SW), W <span style="font-weight:bold;">Carl Lindstrom</span> (JW), Bro <span style="font-weight:bold;">William Nelson</span> (Treasurer), and VW <span style="font-weight:bold;">Tim Smith</span> (Secretary). It was a very enjoyable installation ceremony, and I am pleased to report that the installing officers did an excellent job.<br /><br />After a great meal and wonderful fellowship, it was beginning to get dark, so Johnnie and I hit the road for our drive back around Turnagain Arm. Along the drive, Johnnie and I listened to past editions of <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/masonic-central">Masonic Central</a>, which I had downloaded to my phone. All in all, it was a very satisfying end to a long Masonic week.Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-43250711396322487582009-12-29T15:59:00.004-09:002009-12-29T16:10:30.993-09:00It's Beer<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZTaoN1WbWfns7Rf35HwLc4rAG3iaswo2X6J_2ljDfxPFFhMx82FAS28VHi-4WPXLF5HSBnZvPAVQJyGb-ISbkXoyOyB_10B9swJwL9bC0BR8Rb0mvzgoNnOyZnmPSaUW0GVn_eZeInKg/s1600-h/beer.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZTaoN1WbWfns7Rf35HwLc4rAG3iaswo2X6J_2ljDfxPFFhMx82FAS28VHi-4WPXLF5HSBnZvPAVQJyGb-ISbkXoyOyB_10B9swJwL9bC0BR8Rb0mvzgoNnOyZnmPSaUW0GVn_eZeInKg/s320/beer.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420827731227553330" /></a> I know this photo looks like a chemistry experiment gone awry, but it is actually me transferring my home brew to Cornilus Kegs for the Grand Lodge Hospitality Lounge. The one on the right is an IPA and the one on the left will be an Amber. I am told that there will be two other home brews to sample. Please come join us at the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Alaska, and stop by the Hospitality Lounge for a taste. To register for Grand Lodge, go to our website (<a href="http://www.alaska-mason.org/">www.alaska-mason.org</a>) and follow the links to the registration form and hotel.Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-80957186278127208362009-12-23T20:07:00.002-09:002009-12-23T20:09:38.481-09:00Merry Christmas<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOmiJqqNoJqcfGJS3VXAxmX8hA9bqLDwZyfotixFjbUTfQQf2VkWEUCnoG69xEbkhfOqctNvCWc5uOvWcVr3lcDXbsdekKENzyRTzHSUty-_Oj83JLZCJjWSopBnssv5c9aViS5jI-VBo/s1600-h/national_menorah_white_house.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOmiJqqNoJqcfGJS3VXAxmX8hA9bqLDwZyfotixFjbUTfQQf2VkWEUCnoG69xEbkhfOqctNvCWc5uOvWcVr3lcDXbsdekKENzyRTzHSUty-_Oj83JLZCJjWSopBnssv5c9aViS5jI-VBo/s320/national_menorah_white_house.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418665276059163794" /></a> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJqNAd_SGbWFWK-l32ZWd0U_5cWONZRqYzy1EIltCddSc6XYook3xdNkcmh0-4I3D1LltvRiHeoUbpDg3GXtLhQCNg8PDgbJQQFUf0Co0tGYhuTaiYuSlIHEP8OvpueA067LWq25qt-ak/s1600-h/national-christmas-tree-and-the-capitol-thumb.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 284px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJqNAd_SGbWFWK-l32ZWd0U_5cWONZRqYzy1EIltCddSc6XYook3xdNkcmh0-4I3D1LltvRiHeoUbpDg3GXtLhQCNg8PDgbJQQFUf0Co0tGYhuTaiYuSlIHEP8OvpueA067LWq25qt-ak/s320/national-christmas-tree-and-the-capitol-thumb.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418665160879549330" /></a> To all my family and friends, I wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. At this time of year let us rejoice in the many blessings we have received and at the same time be mindful of those who are less fortunate. Remember, at this time of giving, the greatest gift that you can give is your love and friendship.Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-48910844376069710102009-12-13T09:27:00.004-09:002009-12-13T09:57:35.291-09:00How We Dress is a Reflection of Who We Are<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEh5UwSSnXMtZNt6WS4RBoTTHeOoaPr-YHgtH1nDWgwdTgB69Otw9cJocMxDs1usprC-TFKimeo0Plx9Ugm-hhN5V_aIXwA5wiOX2fLIMrAj_IeXRaVNosAVr0jPlgR8Ony69HU5Uck4E/s1600-h/Morning+Dress.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 118px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEh5UwSSnXMtZNt6WS4RBoTTHeOoaPr-YHgtH1nDWgwdTgB69Otw9cJocMxDs1usprC-TFKimeo0Plx9Ugm-hhN5V_aIXwA5wiOX2fLIMrAj_IeXRaVNosAVr0jPlgR8Ony69HU5Uck4E/s320/Morning+Dress.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414796779782203858" /></a> It is my custom to only place original content in this Blog. However on occasion, I run across sentiments on other sites that I feel are worth sharing. Such is the case of message from MW Barry Rickman, Grand Master of Masons in South Carolina. That message is printed on <a href="http://palmettomason.blogspot.com/2009/12/tennis-shoe-and-t-shirt-wearers-should.html">The Palmetto Mason Blog</a>. MW Rickman addresses the manner in which Masons should dress to represent the best qualities of our institution. It struck a cord with me and I encourage all to follow the link above and read the Grand Master's message.Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-56487985586087712522009-12-12T20:08:00.007-09:002009-12-13T10:02:35.461-09:00Installation of Officers - Aurora Lodge No. 15<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT39iVnnnijlc9RCwDW7R1HIzIXrTE3WKQUxRXQewJivc0vjns_bB15l1eDSsoVAm9DPflMIRxGe2BFc7vYinoJMjSpn4S7EA8pPG1CnV54YksP-Gb7bBBUmldqcYeU1f84TvUK20Tr-A/s1600-h/Aurora+15.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT39iVnnnijlc9RCwDW7R1HIzIXrTE3WKQUxRXQewJivc0vjns_bB15l1eDSsoVAm9DPflMIRxGe2BFc7vYinoJMjSpn4S7EA8pPG1CnV54YksP-Gb7bBBUmldqcYeU1f84TvUK20Tr-A/s320/Aurora+15.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414583519518702162" /></a> After attending the installation of officers of Matanuska Lodge in Palmer, Beth and I rushed into Anchorage to catch the installation of officers for <a href="http://sites.google.com/a/aurora15.org/aurora15-org/">Aurora Lodge No. 15</a>. The temperatures were crisp when we left Palmer, about 3 to 4 degrees above zero. By the time we reached Anchorage, the temperature outside had risen to 17 to 18 above. With all of the good friends and fellowship atthe Anchorage Masonic Center, it was much warmer inside.<br /><br />Beth and I arrived in plenty of time to witness the installation of officers, where WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Dave Oaks</span> was installed as Worshipful Master of Aurora for 2010. The other officers for 2010 include: Bro. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Jon Ward</span> (Sr. Warden), Bro. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Joe Dahl</span> (Jr. Warden), Bro. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Andrew Balser</span> (Treasurer), WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Al Schuerger</span> (Secretary), WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Paul Gabbert</span> (Chaplain) Bro. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Luke Boggess</span> (Marshall), Bro. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Steve Cords</span> (Sr. Deacon), Bro. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Andrew Dickinson</span> (Jr. Deacon), Bro. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Andy Flack</span> (Sr. Steward), Bro. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Jeff Wilson</span> (Jr. Steward), Bro. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Chris Dahl</span> (Organist), and Bro <span style="font-weight:bold;">Ken Smith</span> (Tyler).<br /><br />This installation of officers marked the first time in the 21 year history of Aurora Lodge No. 15 that all of the Installing officers were Past Masters of the Lodge. WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Rodney Young</span> was the Installing Master, WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">John Bishop</span> was the Installing Marshall, WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Paul Gabbert</span> was Installing Chaplain, and WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Philip (Steve) Lee</span> was the Installing Secretary. <br /><br />At the conclusion of the installation of officers the members of Job’s Daughters International Bethel #1 performed the most impressive “What is a Mason” Ceremony.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsJ4ml0k7nIBkiy51YSRDcvhPbf5hns_J8ekvoTJ9AJii7yWlCqJHLMBdkEICtEWh0ET-hFn1fvCmU-nmC-WoKwuo9nE8xY9p2PtM_vqrDD1IDCUmFkB8XqTZfp5W4f2VneQiBpgK8S-8/s1600-h/What+is+a+Mason.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsJ4ml0k7nIBkiy51YSRDcvhPbf5hns_J8ekvoTJ9AJii7yWlCqJHLMBdkEICtEWh0ET-hFn1fvCmU-nmC-WoKwuo9nE8xY9p2PtM_vqrDD1IDCUmFkB8XqTZfp5W4f2VneQiBpgK8S-8/s320/What+is+a+Mason.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414583891685188850" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8T_RVABIXYC8ueNvx_SOzfhZiwIZHb0AyRotwxz4jcn6N-wwye3Qn-ebFLJg5D6-yGBwsvbP_8oROP6CS7S5-zee9QYUEJBaVAz0oMo13L91HKL3C4JQ0Dc2NQhyQ4-tBzczb0pNcdgU/s1600-h/Honor+Queen.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 171px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8T_RVABIXYC8ueNvx_SOzfhZiwIZHb0AyRotwxz4jcn6N-wwye3Qn-ebFLJg5D6-yGBwsvbP_8oROP6CS7S5-zee9QYUEJBaVAz0oMo13L91HKL3C4JQ0Dc2NQhyQ4-tBzczb0pNcdgU/s320/Honor+Queen.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414584126592168818" /></a>Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-63673984104309481202009-12-12T19:27:00.004-09:002009-12-12T19:35:26.450-09:00Palmer Lodge Installation of Officers<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDzDgCyV6N5XcO0KLB-fhlnk-UoqOt-IiEDxg-hZLsE0AdH5eSe5aL5CEUlaIVP1jc6ZSkcLvXTWH0G8W_3Rgl_DW1RxtjGKMaIXqkM-zW3elpBrlRyorGyGveVhgr2qdvQWb0V83TYG4/s1600-h/WM+Taking+Obligation.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 271px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDzDgCyV6N5XcO0KLB-fhlnk-UoqOt-IiEDxg-hZLsE0AdH5eSe5aL5CEUlaIVP1jc6ZSkcLvXTWH0G8W_3Rgl_DW1RxtjGKMaIXqkM-zW3elpBrlRyorGyGveVhgr2qdvQWb0V83TYG4/s320/WM+Taking+Obligation.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414574377810182514" /></a> This morning, Beth and I attended the installation of officers for 2010 for Matanuska Lodge No. 7 (my Mother Lodge). There was quite a crowd present for this event and our small Lodge room was very cramped. WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Tad Dean</span> (outgoing Master) welcomed those present and introduced the various dignitaries. Tad also recognized those Brothers who had contributed to the success of the Lodge this past year. WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Russell Sanders</span> received recognition for attending to the sick and distressed members of the Lodge, Brother <span style="font-weight:bold;">Ted Hutchinson</span> was honored for his ritual accomplishments during the year, WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Jerry Pendergrass</span> was recognized for his hard-working support of the Lodge as Almoner, and Brother <span style="font-weight:bold;">Dennis Oakland</span> was named Mason of the Year from Matanuska Lodge for 2009.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWbFD-KCtpR3AnXMLzNSSkut6qZkKTWyvcSLEeCKs6Q3n2i39TSn6O_3r0KQ-_KLQax1cdU-NuaEmLc7hqBaLk8dSfZbqOklV8g4adFIU9CpwwHGZ2BGIz0A_Er64m4jcRFXYcqhZaj-E/s1600-h/Charge+to+the+Master.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 280px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWbFD-KCtpR3AnXMLzNSSkut6qZkKTWyvcSLEeCKs6Q3n2i39TSn6O_3r0KQ-_KLQax1cdU-NuaEmLc7hqBaLk8dSfZbqOklV8g4adFIU9CpwwHGZ2BGIz0A_Er64m4jcRFXYcqhZaj-E/s320/Charge+to+the+Master.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414574602338098818" /></a>The Installing Officers were VW <span style="font-weight:bold;">V. Clifford Darnell</span> (Installing Master), MW <span style="font-weight:bold;">Charles Corbin</span> (Installing Marshall), WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Larry Wright</span> (Installing Secretary), and MW <span style="font-weight:bold;">Harry Koenen</span> (Installing Chaplain). WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Ted Hutchinson</span> was installed as Worshipful Master for 2010. Brothers <span style="font-weight:bold;">Dennis Oakland</span> and <span style="font-weight:bold;">Mitch Coulthard</span> were installed as Senior and Junior Wardens respectively. WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Tad Dean</span> was installed as Secretary. The appointed officers included WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Jerry Pendergrass</span> (Chaplain), Brother <span style="font-weight:bold;">Bruce Downs</span> (Marshall), Brother <span style="font-weight:bold;">Tom Lehe</span> (Senior Deacon), Brother <span style="font-weight:bold;">Don Ridge</span> (Junior Deacon), Brother <span style="font-weight:bold;">Robert Miles</span> (Senior Steward), <span style="font-weight:bold;">Brother Alex Conners</span> (Junior Steward), and WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Norm Gutcher</span> (Tyler). WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Jackie Carl</span> who was elected Treasurer had another commitment and was not present for the installation.<br /><br />The newly installed Worshipful Master thanked all who had attended today’s installation, most especially his wife <span style="font-weight:bold;">Judelie </span>and the Installing Officers. It is great to see my Lodge in such good hands and I look forward to great things coming from Matanuska Lodge this coming year. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG_-NpCPsKtJsfdeFr1K1AHSwipUI9LCAUUOFqw8KbGd2jVm3AZjdaBErqslTxI8KTd9VZH0AVfWBJNZJYihXiaP5SBOJ-7YhU1BnzP1LhvAZ1sKz8I3b9R8dYJoknZix-uZQVrEiUajg/s1600-h/Ladies+in+Waiting.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 197px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG_-NpCPsKtJsfdeFr1K1AHSwipUI9LCAUUOFqw8KbGd2jVm3AZjdaBErqslTxI8KTd9VZH0AVfWBJNZJYihXiaP5SBOJ-7YhU1BnzP1LhvAZ1sKz8I3b9R8dYJoknZix-uZQVrEiUajg/s320/Ladies+in+Waiting.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414573844890915346" /></a>Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-82520178372932929702009-12-09T23:47:00.002-09:002009-12-10T10:12:25.464-09:00Cub Scout Pack 354<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshVQ3IEMpL03UP5g30ZDqzTD38l7wuqYTF2zRmo9DJDsCO63m87oCUdkae3bmg0asVaQ6z5aUVkYCi3B_n0Pytvk9u3986oQq7kxqLwy4NweSJzdhvVOKpXuqdTXQp8JcIO-4OxGTGUs/s1600-h/Cub+Banner.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 252px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshVQ3IEMpL03UP5g30ZDqzTD38l7wuqYTF2zRmo9DJDsCO63m87oCUdkae3bmg0asVaQ6z5aUVkYCi3B_n0Pytvk9u3986oQq7kxqLwy4NweSJzdhvVOKpXuqdTXQp8JcIO-4OxGTGUs/s320/Cub+Banner.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413526904899557106" /></a> This evening, I attended the Leaders Meeting for Cub Scout Pack 354 in Palmer, Alaska. Pack 354 is chartered by Matanuska Lodge No. 7 in Palmer, and I am their Charter Organization Representative. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Skip Krysak</span> (Cub Master) and his wife <span style="font-weight:bold;">Christie </span>have led this very successful Cub Pack for nearly 20 years. The meeting took place at Skip’s home and featured a wonderful Seafood Boil dinner. The Pack participated in the Popcorn Sales again this year and sold $30,000 in popcorn. From this, they netted $10,000 for the Pack, which will be used to support their activities this coming year. Another one third of the proceeds of this sale goes to the <a href="http://www.scoutingalaska.org/openrosters/view_homepage.asp?orgkey=1948">Great Alaska Council of the Boy Scouts of America</a> to help fund their ongoing programs.<br /><br />Pack 354 currently has 89 Scouts in 11 Cub Dens. They keep the boys very active in the community by providing support to various charitable organizations like Special Olympics, the American Cancer Society, and Wounded Veterans Program. On Saturday, December 19, the Cubs and their families will be caroling at the Palmer Veterans Home (Pioneer Home) at 6:00 PM. In addition to their regularly planned activities, the Pack will be sponsoring an “Adult Pinewood Derby”. This event gives Scout parents and other adults the opportunity to build and compete with their own Pinewood Derby cars and provides them an opportunity to contribute to the Wounded Veterans Program. The entry fee is $25, for which the participant get their own Pinewood Derby kit. The adults will compete on May 6, 2010 at the Palmer Elks Club on Finger Lake. For more information about Pack 354 please contact Skip at <a href="mailto:krysak@mtaonline.net">krysak@mtaonline.net</a>.Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-83266095809827355172009-12-09T22:09:00.002-09:002009-12-09T22:13:56.352-09:00Glacier Lodge No. 10 Installation of Officers<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikhk5stBEkHpuygTpmibS9MNVRCuGWRsGpA3-OH0est8Fd7mbIZQr45jD-b5GslpFT5K3OB7WOzQTsIry_WibDaPnH0y0Q_rmTCUywuY4TW3szCrq5R7poz7K7qgyzDCnHjVq8trIpkrM/s1600-h/Clarence.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 302px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikhk5stBEkHpuygTpmibS9MNVRCuGWRsGpA3-OH0est8Fd7mbIZQr45jD-b5GslpFT5K3OB7WOzQTsIry_WibDaPnH0y0Q_rmTCUywuY4TW3szCrq5R7poz7K7qgyzDCnHjVq8trIpkrM/s320/Clarence.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413501452185176786" /></a> Last Saturday, December 5, I attended the installation of officers for Glacier Lodge No. 10. The installation took place at the Anchorage Masonic Center, and the Lodge room was packed with visitors. WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Clarence E. Keto</span> was installed as worshipful master, with Brothers <span style="font-weight:bold;">David Prentice</span> and <span style="font-weight:bold;">Bruce Morgan</span> as Senior and Junior Wardens respectively. Rounding out the elected officers are WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Jerry W. (JJ) Pinion Jr.</span>, Treasurer and RWB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Jerry W. Pinion</span>, Secretary. The Pinion son and father duo performed the installation ceremony as Installing Officer and Installing Marshall, switching roles when it was the others turn to be installed. Other installing officers included WB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Paul Gabbert</span> (Aurora Lodge No. 15), Installing Chaplain, MWB <span style="font-weight:bold;">Henry Dunbar</span>, Installing Secretary, and Ms <span style="font-weight:bold;">Alice Chaney</span>, Installing Organists. This was a bit of a family affair, with Clarence’s wife <span style="font-weight:bold;">Beverly</span>, daughter <span style="font-weight:bold;">Susan Keto Fogg</span>, and grandson all taking part in the festivities. <br /><br />This is Clarence’s second time in the East for Glacier Lodge No. 10. Clarence is also a past Potentate of Al Aska Shrine and, this year, he is serving me as the Grand Orator of the Grand Lodge of Alaska. I know he will do a great job at the reins of Glacier 10, and I wish him well.<br /><br />Unfortunately, I forgot my camera and have to use a file photo of Clarence for this posting. I don’t think he will mind, since it shows him enjoying one of his favorite activities.Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-82595231678583602742009-12-04T15:36:00.005-09:002009-12-09T14:17:01.402-09:00Daddy Rabbit WelcomeI just heard from MW Steve Cox (Grand Master of Masons in Alaska, 2002), who was transplanted to Oklahoma a few years back. Steve’s initial major in college was fine arts, and he has done cartooning since childhood. A watercolor painting of the old Fairbanks Masonic Temple that Steve did while at Tanana #3 hangs in the new Tanana Masonic Center. Steve does oils, watercolors, mixed media and sculpture, all original work. The following is Steve’s message and his accompanying artwork. Enjoy.<br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-style:italic;">Well, being stuck in the house while a toe heals, I became bored. Gayle let me have some pencils and paper to play with… So I drew a new cartoon.<br /><br />It is my Daddy Rabbit cartoon, turned forward for the first time in nearly 45 years. I chose Masonry as his debut so I hope you like him. Those of you who are Masons will understand the open arms and greeting. Those of you who are not… maybe you should join?<br /><br />If you like him, let me know… if you don’t, who are you anyway to judge my artwork!!!!<br /><br />Love,<br />Steve</span></blockquote><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgks_Rf9yMvnIVZByxWrzFdRqOhMKYKs8Yftf5nXhvCCuY6vrlSqIzW-3_gAtuqitk7Rq51sJivTVCAjPb673D4DGkJeLyhbNuXSNBaVAfWhu4QWstdYkKMTPsqL5VMWOTsT4wrdS8A-Pw/s1600-h/Rabbit+Mason+Smaller+.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 291px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgks_Rf9yMvnIVZByxWrzFdRqOhMKYKs8Yftf5nXhvCCuY6vrlSqIzW-3_gAtuqitk7Rq51sJivTVCAjPb673D4DGkJeLyhbNuXSNBaVAfWhu4QWstdYkKMTPsqL5VMWOTsT4wrdS8A-Pw/s400/Rabbit+Mason+Smaller+.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413379268065231330" /></a>Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-42261602712078125382009-12-02T18:02:00.004-09:002009-12-02T18:08:02.624-09:0029th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of AlaskaBrethren,<br /><br />I extend to you a cordial invitation to attend the 29th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Alaska in Anchorage, February 2 – 5, 2010. <br /><br />Beth and I have planned several social activities, which all are welcomed to participate in during their stay in Anchorage. A proposed schedule of events, interactive registration form, and fliers providing more information about our Alaska Masonic Library and Museum Foundation fund raiser and Potentates Ball can all be found under announcements on the <a href="http://www.alaska-mason.org/">Grand Lodge of Alaska web page</a>.<br /><br />Please note that Alaska Airlines has currently reduced airfare to and from Anchorage, Alaska. This reduction may not last long.<br /><br />I look forward to seeing all my Masonic friends in February.<br /><br />Sincerely and Fraternally,<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRo_nr76aJ9sBHECBTovR1ysfvXyHfwlq5vQgLnad5EEQWOR5IHUZyaOMEMfsaRFLkITRezorheuXJIZbFPzjhduWdD50Sex2hRLwk7Cvmx4R_6CyoewyEn4mIm0NK8l48LAlTOFd6Rpc/s1600-h/Bo's+Sig.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 52px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRo_nr76aJ9sBHECBTovR1ysfvXyHfwlq5vQgLnad5EEQWOR5IHUZyaOMEMfsaRFLkITRezorheuXJIZbFPzjhduWdD50Sex2hRLwk7Cvmx4R_6CyoewyEn4mIm0NK8l48LAlTOFd6Rpc/s200/Bo's+Sig.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410840561606506018" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />MW John R. “Bo” Cline<br />Grand Master of Masons in AlaskaBo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-26508367862951391462009-12-02T17:37:00.002-09:002009-12-02T17:38:41.173-09:00Bake Sale<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBLDaZG6JuxPFANEHjRWf9t83XHqE6K4FKD5Rcr5TiuFWdN0HIohLdiZTRl43d2FEa9qXeccRPUw07YdQG23wSPPLKBusZ09olSURUPgDmI77i44S3lluB5CcTiE2bYnfDyutS7nzBSrk/s1600-h/Bake+Sale.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 301px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBLDaZG6JuxPFANEHjRWf9t83XHqE6K4FKD5Rcr5TiuFWdN0HIohLdiZTRl43d2FEa9qXeccRPUw07YdQG23wSPPLKBusZ09olSURUPgDmI77i44S3lluB5CcTiE2bYnfDyutS7nzBSrk/s320/Bake+Sale.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410833533565525618" /></a> Back in March, I issued a challenge to the lodges in this jurisdiction to conduct at least one fund raising activity during the year, and I asked that a portion of the proceeds raised be donated to the Grand Lodge of Alaska. I asked that any funds donated to Grand Lodge be earmarked to support one or more of the various endowments we sponsor, i.e. Grand Lodge Permanent Fund, Grand Lodge Travel Fund, Alaska Masonic Foundation for Children, or the Alaska Masonic Library and Museum Foundation. I explained that I hoped the lodges would make the presentation of their gifts during the open session of the 29th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Alaska, February 4-5, 2010.<br /><br />My purpose in issuing this challenge was to provoke the lodges into initiating some sort of activity that would demonstrate their presence in the community as a force for doing good.<br /><br />Last night I visited my mother lodge, Matanuska No. 7. During the reports of committees, I learned that the lodge had conducted a bake sale over the weekend and had raised $715.85. During the course of the meeting, several motions were made and approved to dispose of this money. The lodge agreed to donate $200 to the Palmer Food Bank, $200 to the Alaska Family Resource Center, $200 to the Matanuska/Susitna Borough Secret Santa Program, $100 to the Grand Lodge of Alaska, and $15.85 to the lodge’s Almoner’s Fund. <br /><br />Last night, I had a deep sense of pride in my lodge when I saw that they had participated in my requested fund raising activity, and, when it was over, contributed the bulk of monies they had raised directly back to the community. My lodge is not large as lodges go. We have limited resources and many demands on the money we have at hand, not the least is the maintenance of our Masonic Hall. Despite that, Matanuska Lodge No. 7 chose to demonstrate that they are a force for good in their community, and I applaud them for that.Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-60496575539578138952009-11-15T15:35:00.000-09:002009-11-23T11:44:41.148-09:00My Two Worlds of Masonry<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrpTSr8as0f1gTUtoTu7QQvqIDJfaXI73wjCE6w2PctjxHyGWdwvzjMO8f_tVbgVVYjXFrPpx2pVjaLUrS1JnRCZdCA7xSnmYUU1fbLjaCuhY8gM4wzlrpS6zDWHbk1lzYH1GxY2gSnM/s1600/Twoface.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrpTSr8as0f1gTUtoTu7QQvqIDJfaXI73wjCE6w2PctjxHyGWdwvzjMO8f_tVbgVVYjXFrPpx2pVjaLUrS1JnRCZdCA7xSnmYUU1fbLjaCuhY8gM4wzlrpS6zDWHbk1lzYH1GxY2gSnM/s320/Twoface.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404496189225709138" /></a> As I have been traveling around the country this year, I have been living in two separate and distinct worlds. One world consists of the “Real World” of the Blue Lodges and the appendent and concordant bodies. The other consists of the “Virtual World” of Freemasonry.<br /><br />In the real world, flesh and blood Masons meet for fellowship to perform Masonic rituals and conduct business meetings. This population is characterized by men primarily in their 50s and 60s. Although, a whole generation younger than the “Greatest Generation”, this group generally shares a lot of the same conservative values of the WWII group. These real world Masons are the keepers of the Masonic flame; they keep alive the customs and traditions of Freemasonry and are wary of any changes in the manner in which Freemasonry is practiced. From my observation, this group has a greater interest in the philanthropy than in the philosophy of Masonry. Masons in this group are not only separated from the newer generation of Masons by age, they are also less technically astute. Many of them don’t use or have access to computers and those that do use them simply for communicating via email. <br /><br />My other world is the virtual world of Freemasonry accessible through the Internet. The characteristics of this group are a little harder to pin down. Members of this group often identify themselves with pseudonyms like <a href="http://www.freemasoninformation.com/category/masonic_traveler/">Masonic Traveler</a>, <a href="http://palmettomason.blogspot.com/">Palmetto Bug</a>, and The <a href="http://www.millennialfreemason.com/">Millennial Freemason</a>. They usually represent themselves with avatars rather than their true images. My guess would be that these Masons are generally in their 30s and 40s, however there appears to be a large number of Gen Xers among this group. That’s not to say that older Masons do not frequent the Internet. One regular follower of this blog is a 91 year old Past Grand Master. One thing that this group generally has in common is an interest in the symbolism, philosophy, and history of Freemasonry. They also have an interest in and discuss contemporary issues like Masonic Recognition, Female Freemasonry, and Masonic Baptism. They share this interest on the Internet through social media sites like <a href="http://www.facebook.com/">Facebook </a>and <a href="http://twitter.com/">Twitter</a>, through blogs and podcasts, and on forum pages like <a href="http://themasonicsociety.org/">The Masonic Society </a>and <a href="http://www.thesanctumsanctorum.com/">Sanctum Sanctorum</a>. These Masons are quite adept at the use of modern technology and use that technology to create Masonic content and share it with the world. <br /><br />I realize that I am generalizing quite a bit, but from my perspective there is an ever widening gap forming between the legacy Masons in the “Real World” and the next generation Masons in the “Virtual World” who are seeking the promise of more light in Masonry. Also, from my perspective, the largest population of Masons exists in the “Real World” and they appear to be either unaware of the ways of or just disinterested in expanding their knowledge of Freemasonry. They seem more interested in making members rather than making Masons.<br /><br />More and more men are seeking the promise of Freemasonry. These men are lured by the popular media and the information they glean from the Internet. The dilemma that exists is that, in order for these men to participate in our labors and privileges, they must first pass through the “Real World” of Freemasonry. They must ask to become a Mason, petition a lodge, and go through the ritual of initiation in the brick and mortar world. Some do not see this “Real World” of Masonry as representative of what they are seeking. Others, who go through our degrees, simply leave never to return, when they realize that in “Real World” Masonry philanthropy precedes philosophy and they are not interested in tedious business meetings.<br /><br />For Freemasonry to survive and succeed, a bridge needs to be built between these two worlds. These two groups must be brought together, because the legacy Masons hold the keys to our customs and traditions and the next generation of Masons have the curiosity, energy, and enthusiasm to carry us into the future. As Freemasons are first and foremost builders, this should be an easy task. Unfortunately, our legacy Masons are either worn out from keeping Freemasonry alive for the past 40 to 50 years, they may not possess the necessary skills to perform this task, or they are just too comfortable in the models they have created for themselves to want to change. If this is truly the case, then the only option is for the next generation of Masons to reach back across the gap. This next generation must learn and appreciate our customs and traditions and be sensitive to the concerns of the legacy Masons; they must continue to examine the symbolism, philosophy, and history of Freemasonry, with an eye toward self improvement; and they must share their new insights with all, from the E-Mason to the legacy Mason. The next generation Mason must explore different models for the practice of Freemasonry and bring those models into the “Real World”.<br /><br />Freemasonry is a powerful institution, which first improves the character of the individual Mason, and then, by his action, the entire community. The world (both real and virtual) is a better place because of Freemasonry. I have great confidence that we will continue to be a positive influence on the world, and as the world changes, Freemasonry will change to accommodate the quest of the individual Brother. <br /><br />I live in both worlds of Freemasonry, and I share some of the characteristics of both groups. I am comfortable with the models of Freemasonry we practice in the “Real World”. Yet, I have a desire for something I find lacking in the way Freemasonry is practiced in this country. I wish to be a positive influence on making our Craft better, therefore I continue to be a seeker for more light in Masonry.Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-75142780971095446092009-11-15T15:26:00.001-09:002009-11-15T15:34:28.186-09:00Scottish Rite Reception of the Grand MasterYesterday evening, Beth and I again drove into Anchorage , where the Anchorage Scottish Rite Valley conducted a reception for the Grand Master. This event was held at the Lone Star Steak House. The food was great and the friendship and fellowship was even greater. A special thanks to Brother <strong>Dale S. Cain, 33 degree</strong>, for coordinating this event and all of the courtisies extended to Beth and me.Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-15870539267255337382009-11-15T15:20:00.000-09:002009-11-15T15:25:43.654-09:00Four New Entered ApprenticeOn Saturday monring, I drove into Anchorage to enjoy the conferral of the First Degree of Masonry on for candidates at Aurora Lodge No. 15. Each of the four First Degrees was conferred in succession by Brother <strong>Joe Dahl</strong>. The Master's Lecture was performed by WB <strong>John Bishop</strong>. It was great to witness such quality ritual work and to be present as four men started on their quest for Masonic Light.Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-71714121395608738642009-11-10T22:12:00.000-09:002009-11-10T22:19:28.746-09:00And Then There Were Five<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk3yABozrPxhJLfgrheW5cR40qYR80GCvOk8KcXWKrfihgYLjxsdasUkqYs1RqTp41JqCkhY7L21u2wZdLDRCABU0Sv1Snjd6SS4LqeQDRw6-0S0xgUyONvF49Rd23hWJIQ-byEeXI6d4/s1600-h/five+%2B+wives.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk3yABozrPxhJLfgrheW5cR40qYR80GCvOk8KcXWKrfihgYLjxsdasUkqYs1RqTp41JqCkhY7L21u2wZdLDRCABU0Sv1Snjd6SS4LqeQDRw6-0S0xgUyONvF49Rd23hWJIQ-byEeXI6d4/s400/five+%2B+wives.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402741610411259442" /></a><br />On Tuesday evening, November 10, 2009, Carl L. “Bud” Banks was installed as the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge, F&AM of the State of Nevada. This was a historic occasion, as Bud represents the fifth installed Grand Master in 2009 who is also a member of the Grand Lodge of Washington. The five Grand Masters who share this distinction and their dates of installation are:<br /><br />MW John R. “Bo” Cline, Grand Master of Alaska, February 6<br />MW D. Arthur Bush, Grand Master of Oregon, June 5<br />MW Gale H. Kenney, Grand Master of Washington, June 12<br />MW Kenneth G. Nagel, Grand Master of California, October 4<br />MW Carl L. “Bud” Banks, Grand Master of Nevada, November 10<br /><br />Bud’s installation occured at the conclusion of the 145th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Nevada, which took place at the Peppermill Resort in Reno. The Annual Communication was presided over by MW David O. Martinez, Grand Master and had representatives present from the Grand Lodges of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Switzerland, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming, including eight Grand Masters. The Grand Lodge of Alaska had by far the largest contingent with seven members present. Including myself, Alaskans present were RW Johnnie L. Wallace, DGM; RW James D. Grubbs, Grand Treasurer; MW Jared S. Decker, PGM; MW Fred V. Angleton, PGM; MW L. V. “Joe” Dees, PGM; and Brother Jerry Ingram. <br /><br />Legislation of note included the rejection of a resolution to prohibit the conduct of a stated meeting on anything but the third degree and the withdrawal of the alternate Spanish Ritual. Additionally, Arthur K. Cronin (PGM), VW Grand Secretary and David J. Guinan (PGM), VW Grand Lecturer both announced their retirements from their respective offices. It was unanimously approved to make Art and David Grand Secretary Emeritus and Grand Lecturer Emeritus respectively. The newly elected Grand Lodge officers for the Grand Lodge of the State of Nevada for 2009 – 2010 include:<br /><br />Carl L. “Bud” Banks, MW Grand Master<br />Reed R. Moseley, RW Deputy Grand Master<br />Hans J. Scheurer, RW Senior Grand Warden<br />Richard M. “Mike” Hoaglin, RW Junior Grand Warden<br />Michel P. Aurnague, VW Grand Treasurer<br />Larry W. Darling, VW Grand Secretary<br />James G. Kelly (PGM), VW Grand Lecturer <br /><br />Beth and I had a wonderful time while attending this Grand Session and we owe a debt of gratitude to MW David Martinez and the officers and members of the Grand Lodge of Nevada for all of the courtesies extended to us.Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-15714927140238927812009-11-06T21:14:00.000-09:002009-11-06T21:27:21.585-09:00Lafayette Lodge International Night<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgimMeETWjM7W0WD2pS-mepGYtYqLJsTrhs6UFN83cUH_UK7CllimdDRzAUAE8L_ao5GejBnC5Vh5jF9MojdB0CoaczC8QjWn9h6qjhVZ1r4mOp0ijEaSXe2zl1c8LC-B9dp5L3whrFmOg/s1600-h/IMG_2957.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgimMeETWjM7W0WD2pS-mepGYtYqLJsTrhs6UFN83cUH_UK7CllimdDRzAUAE8L_ao5GejBnC5Vh5jF9MojdB0CoaczC8QjWn9h6qjhVZ1r4mOp0ijEaSXe2zl1c8LC-B9dp5L3whrFmOg/s320/IMG_2957.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401242322713695538" /></a> Last night was the 81st Annual International Night Banquet and Reception sponsored by Lafayette Lodge No. 241, Grand Lodge of Washington, F&AM. This invitational reception was intended to honor sitting Grand Masters by giving them the opportunity to sign the famous Lafayette Lodge Bible. This Bible contains the signatures of many recognizable personalities collected over the past several years. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPa_3I5qEuO8MX1I8DgZZPWCbDmr1zpAjrPi8JcJQ2j7TE8RKEboCzP43z668XVrrAPqIKhE_BidBSdTlghQih-VWHFqdFq7_7bQQLgn0fdCPqQuW0orfefL10Y-1W28oyqdTnebOdxO0/s1600-h/IMGP2059.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPa_3I5qEuO8MX1I8DgZZPWCbDmr1zpAjrPi8JcJQ2j7TE8RKEboCzP43z668XVrrAPqIKhE_BidBSdTlghQih-VWHFqdFq7_7bQQLgn0fdCPqQuW0orfefL10Y-1W28oyqdTnebOdxO0/s320/IMGP2059.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401242738519089266" /></a> The Lafayette Signature Bible was originally given to Lafayette Lodge by their sponsoring Lodge Arcana No. 87. It is not documented as to how or who originally conceived the idea of obtaining signatures of famous and influential people. However over the many years, the lodge has obtained the signatures of political figures, movie personalities, military personnel, foreign dignitaries, local dignitaries, visiting Grand Masters, and all of the Worshipful Masters of Lafayette Lodge. Perhaps the most famous signature is that of the late president Warren G. Harding. President Harding boarded his train for Washington DC, shortly after signing the Lafayette Bible, and died during the night while on his train ride. His Press Secretary verified this was the last time his signature was ever applied in any form.<br /><br />Other noted personalities who have signed this Bible include: Lynden B. Johnson; Astronauts Charlie Duke, John Young, and Ken Mattingly; Henry A. Kissinger; Carl Gustaf (King of Sweden); Frank S. Land 33rd degree; Dwight D. Eisenhower; Adm. Richard E. Bird; Akihito (Crown Prince of Japan); Barry Goldwater 33rd degree; Ronald Reagan; Bob Hope; Red Skelton 33rd degree; Noble Eddie Peabody; Walter F. Meier; Douglas MacArthur 33rd degree; Henry Clausen 33rd degree; Franklin D. Roosevelt; Charles A. Lindberg; Harry Truman; Neil Armstrong; and many many more.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwPTHB06nAEPglhn-o6y-MC3g3d_rBtfZZcDGOkR5tEEdeI1Z3Nk8T58-ddch-sh90UOfuPP8jrmjLQrI8YE7rTp_-zHa2Ks7MvI2t4lfYaqutJqwCdfhDqlhFUeJjG_qMnCjpVC0-LNQ/s1600-h/IMG_2946.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwPTHB06nAEPglhn-o6y-MC3g3d_rBtfZZcDGOkR5tEEdeI1Z3Nk8T58-ddch-sh90UOfuPP8jrmjLQrI8YE7rTp_-zHa2Ks7MvI2t4lfYaqutJqwCdfhDqlhFUeJjG_qMnCjpVC0-LNQ/s320/IMG_2946.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401242995334041474" /></a>This year, it was my great honor to be included in the class of 2009 Grand Masters who were given this wonderful opportunity. My fellow Grand Masters who participated in this event were: <span style="font-weight:bold;">MWB Kenneth G. Nagel</span> (Grand Lodge of California); <span style="font-weight:bold;">MWB David C. Triplett</span> (Grand Lodge of Idaho); <span style="font-weight:bold;">MWB Thomas L. Lund</span> (Grand Lodge of Montana) <span style="font-weight:bold;">MWB D. Arthur Bush</span> (Grand Lodge of Oregon); <span style="font-weight:bold;">RWB Patrick I. Hughes, Sr., 33rd degree</span> (representing MWB Kenneth B. Anthony, Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Washington and Jurisdiction); <span style="font-weight:bold;">MWB Brian Tuckey</span> (Grand Lodge of British Columbia & Yukon); and, of course, <span style="font-weight:bold;">MWB Gale H. Kenney</span> (Grand Lodge of Washington). All of these Grand Masters were accompanied by their ladies and special guests. I had the honor of having both my wife <span style="font-weight:bold;">Bethany </span>and my parents; <span style="font-weight:bold;">Kelly and Marge Cline</span> accompany me.<br /><br />I wish to extend my sincere gratitude and appreciation to Worshipful Brother <span style="font-weight:bold;">Robert P. Cittadini</span> and all of the officers and brethren of Lafayette Lodge No. 241 for their great hospitality and the wonderful honor they bestowed on me. I wish to extend a special thanks to Worshipful Brother <span style="font-weight:bold;">Leonard T. Hutchinson</span>, who was our personal escort on this momentous occasion.Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-34453656444761036952009-10-27T07:43:00.000-08:002009-10-27T07:50:21.192-08:00The Masonic Society PowerPoint Presentation<div><h3 style="padding: 0px; margin: 3px;"><a style="font:normal 18px,arial;" href="http://www.authorstream.com/Presentation/clinebo-261529-masonic-society-pp-us-entertainment-ppt-powerpoint/" target="_blank">Masonic Society PP - US'</a></h3><object id="player" width="425" height="354"><param value="http://www.authorstream.com/player/player.swf?p=261529_633922357898726250" name="movie"/><param value="true" name="allowfullscreen"/><param value="always" name="allowScriptAccess"/><embed allowscriptaccess="always" width="425" src="http://www.authorstream.com/player/player.swf?p=261529_633922357898726250" allowfullscreen="true" height="354" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object><div style="font-family: arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;">See more <a href="http://www.authorstream.com/" target="_blank">presentations</a> by <a href="http://www.authorstream.com/User-Presentations/clinebo/" target="_blank">clinebo</a> | <a href="http://upload.authorstream.com/multipleupload/" target="_blank">Upload your own PowerPoint presentations</a></div></div> In my copious free time, I animated Brother Terry Hastings' PowerPoint presentation on "<a href="http://themasonicsociety.org/">The Masonic Society</a>". Once it downloads, just click the play button with your mouse, then click to advance the slides.Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-25424275634046273202009-10-25T17:06:00.000-08:002009-10-26T07:36:22.697-08:00Anchorage Valley Scottish Rite Fall Reunion<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPtl1rF14AXzgur-Ky2nledgwHUktZwr16ap7NYp9H7AGihpcS4jJcgVEtzYkmhwkn5JMmkYjDHkgIOrFoU3N9NCr9Jg0fwxKw19vK80cMtlayv4ZimeDCtG3e7wJESLqTcJzNu3cnciM/s1600-h/100_3989.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 211px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396788800865842690" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPtl1rF14AXzgur-Ky2nledgwHUktZwr16ap7NYp9H7AGihpcS4jJcgVEtzYkmhwkn5JMmkYjDHkgIOrFoU3N9NCr9Jg0fwxKw19vK80cMtlayv4ZimeDCtG3e7wJESLqTcJzNu3cnciM/s320/100_3989.JPG" /></a> <div>On Saturday, I had the honor and privilege to be the exemplar for the conferral of the 32 degree of Scottish Rite Masonry, during the Anchorage Scottish Rite Valley’s fall reunion. There were 10 of us in the reunion class, which was large by the Anchorage Valley’s standards. The candidates who participated in the class included: <strong>Andy Flack</strong>, <strong>Steve Cords</strong>, <strong>Paul Petersen</strong>, <strong>Ron Adams</strong>, <strong>Mike Cooper</strong>, <strong>Will Ottman</strong>, <strong>Chris Fatello</strong>, <strong>Sam Thompson</strong>, <strong>Nicholas Giles</strong>, and myself. During the “capping” ceremony at the end of this two day event, I had the pleasure of having my Scottish Rite 32 degree cap placed on my head by <strong>Dee LaCombe</strong>. Dee was the wife of Brother Dave LaCombe, a dear friend who passed away last year.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb3YTg0hdrMZAV8TCL-SaL8DJTHXKjst-fygGbjx9Fkb0n2WtwX73Z3h4F1rNP4KUOHGOJjFTrUiDUDV0yOFprYOmA_lehaFwpBV0yLJWNLACvHXbwwJG0wILEVd6mIePJbLUZj2i_ThU/s1600-h/100_3976.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 208px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396788506701264978" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb3YTg0hdrMZAV8TCL-SaL8DJTHXKjst-fygGbjx9Fkb0n2WtwX73Z3h4F1rNP4KUOHGOJjFTrUiDUDV0yOFprYOmA_lehaFwpBV0yLJWNLACvHXbwwJG0wILEVd6mIePJbLUZj2i_ThU/s320/100_3976.JPG" /></a> I may have mentioned before that I came to Masonry late in my life, although, I was introduced to the principles of Freemasonry at an early age, by a family that was and is very active in the fraternity and through participation in DeMolay. However, after I graduated from High School, I chose a different path; military service, college, and a professional career. Along the way, I gave my service in leadership roles to a professional society and the Boy Scouts. I didn’t become a Master Mason until I was 47 years old. Before that time, I didn’t realize that I had been searching for something more meaningful in my life. Since becoming a Mason, I have given my time and service to various Masonic organizations, applying what I had learned through a career of professional and public service.<br /><br />For the last few years I have become aware of what Masonry has to offer to the serious student, and I have set off on a course of independent study of mediaeval and renaissance philosophy. I have been guided by authors like <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0226950077/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_3?pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=0226950018&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=0Z9A5YXGTW0BC3F95BN3">Frances Yates</a>, who said:<br /><br /><div align="center"><em>“Where is there such a combination . . . of religious toleration, emotional linkage with the mediaeval past, emphasis on good works for others, and imaginative attachment to the religion and the symbolism of the Egyptians? The only answer to this question that I can think of is in Freemasonry, with its mythical link with the mediaeval masons, its toleration, its philanthropy, and its Egyptian symbolism."</em> </div> <div align="center"></div></div> <br />I have continued to search for that which will make me a better husband, a better father, and a better citizen. This weekend’s Anchorage Scottish Rite Valley’s fall reunion, was another step in that search. I know that there are some who may be surprised by this revelation; that I waited this long to become a Scottish Rite Mason. All I can say is that for every man there is a path he must choose; a path, which if properly selected, will help direct him to true enlightenment. I have no regrets about waiting until I was 47 years old to choose Freemasonry, for I wasn’t ready to accept its teachings until that time. I do, however, regret that it took me this long to seek out Scottish Rite Masonry. I now believe, for me anyway, that the Scottish Rite has the philosophy and teachings that will assist me in my quest for “Further Light in Masonry”.<br /><br />As Brother Winston Churchill said at the end of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Britain">Battle of Britian</a>, <em>“Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.”</em></div>Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1872162778513068677.post-61294350546420107032009-10-23T23:10:00.001-08:002009-10-24T21:16:04.722-08:00Building Boaz - UPDATE<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7g338nhvmwcO-2PzdavGVZRoY-9eAmNDUlRrzBtLNgo1DhLjit6oG7Z9krllnT__mXLQhcwNeUh0-hD_6L6fa_KsitZcDuWJ_cLgMXGJop5QBOw_b92T8B7KIRDZgWnoDWysFIPRFC_0/s1600-h/Building+Boaz.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396060617346790818" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7g338nhvmwcO-2PzdavGVZRoY-9eAmNDUlRrzBtLNgo1DhLjit6oG7Z9krllnT__mXLQhcwNeUh0-hD_6L6fa_KsitZcDuWJ_cLgMXGJop5QBOw_b92T8B7KIRDZgWnoDWysFIPRFC_0/s320/Building+Boaz.jpg" /></a> Last week I had the opportunity to visit over the phone with Brother and Doctor <strong>John Nagy</strong>. John is the author of the recently published “Building Boaz”, the second volume in his series on uncommon catechisms for uncommon Masonic education. His first book in this series was titled “Building Hiram”. John has the great sense of finding patterns in Masonic ritual and presenting the relationships of the symbolism to an individual’s development in a unique manner. He begins each of his books with a catechism primer, where he presents the definition of catechism in the form of a catechism itself. He proceeds to introduce several topics in “Building Boaz” related to the First Degree and follows each with a catechism on that topic. Each of John’s books are excellent resources to assist in coaching and mentoring new Masons. They are also great tools to enhance Masonic Education within our lodges.<br /><br />Dr. Nagy will be a guest on the <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Masonic-Central">Masonic Central </a>podcast <span style="color:#ff0000;">Sunday, October 25</span>. Masonic Central airs live most Sundays at 6:00 PM Pacific Time. If you have the time and is free of commitments during its airing, I would encourage you to tune in. However, if you are like me, you will have to download the broadcast to listen to it as a later time. Dr. Nagy's books may be purchased on the <a href="http://www.freemasoninformation.com/">Freemason Information Masonic Blog</a>.Bo Clinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00549496350801893085noreply@blogger.com0