WMJ November 2013 - Grand Masonic Lodge of Wisconsin

THE WISCONSIN

Masonic Journal

NOVEMBER 2013 Lodges present 273 Scholarships totaling $257,500 See page 12.

Wisconsin Masonic Calendar

NOVEMBER

16 Job's Daughter’s, Bethel #22, Racine, 75th Birthday, open house, 1:30 p.m.– 4:30 p.m., tours, memorabilia, refreshments.

2 McKinley Lodge No. 307, Ladies at the Table Dinner. 6:00 p.m. For reservations contact Bro. Todd Jaremko at [email protected].

23 Wilmot Lodge No. 241, 125th Anniversary Rededication and Installation. Refreshments at 2:00 p.m., Ceremonies at 3:00 p.m., dinner to follow. 30702 Fox River Rd., Wilmot. Contact and RSVP [email protected].

1 Racine-Belle City Lodge No. 18, Masonic Family Movie Night, Potluck dinner at 6:00 p.m. 1012 S Main St. Racine. RSVP to Bro. Patrick Williams, 262-488-2915.

2 District 7 Fall Meeting and Chili Cook Off, hosted by MiddletonIonic Lodge No. 180, Middleton Masonic Center, 7409 Franklin Ave. Meeting at 9:00 a.m. chili at noon. Contact District 7 Deputy Craig Froelich, [email protected]. 2 District 8 Fall Meeting, 9:00 a.m., hosted by Franklin Lodge No. 16, Lone Rock. Contact District 8 Deputy Marc Steiber at 608-3794376 or [email protected].

2 Job's Daughter event: Bethel No. 19, 80’s Themed Friend’s Day, West Allis Masonic Center, 7515 W National Ave., West Allis. 11:00 a.m. games, 12:00 p.m. lunch, 1:00 p.m. meeting to follow.

5 Fellowship/Education Night, hosted by Evergreen Lodge No. 93. Open at 7:00 p.m. for a short meeting. After closing there will be a presentation by a Grand Lodge Officer, followed by refreshments and fellowship. Located at 1578 Strongs Avenue in Stevens Point. Please RSVP by November 1 to Bro. John White, Master, at [email protected] , or leave a message at 715-451-8748. 9 Burlington Lodge No. 28 Past Master’s Dinner. 7:00 p.m. For reservations contact Senior Warden Donny Pellman at 262-496-1508.

9 District 9 “Improving Yourself through Masonry” Event. 8:30 a.m. Coffee & Carbs, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Event. This event includes Leadership Training, New Member Orientation. Term Planning, & Round table Brainstorming. Hosted by Glenn L. Humphrey Lodge No. 364, 375 Hwy 67, Dousman. Contact District 9 Deputy Paul T. Tourville at [email protected] or 414-659-5205 with any questions. 9 Union Grove Lodge No. 288, Fall Tuscan Dinner, 4:40 p.m.-6:30 p.m., Adults $10.00 under 11 free. Contact Bro. Steve Knight, Master, 262-632-0035.

9 Milwaukee Veteran’s Parade, Masonic Brotherhood Council, help pass out donuts, coffee, hot chocolate and other goodies. 8:00 a.m. 340 W. Kilbourn Ave., in frony of Major Goolsbys

10 Henry L. Palmer’s Junior Warden’s Chili Invitational – Chili Cookoff, 5:00 -7:00 p.m. Set up 4:00 p.m. Tickets in advance $7, day of event $10. Henry L. Palmer Lodge No. 301, 4315 N. 92nd St., Wauwatosa. For info call 414-463-0390 or email [email protected].

10 Job's Daughter’s Bethel #3, Fond du Lac, Annual Masonic Family Thanksgiving Dinner (all the trimmings) 12:30 dinner Open Meeting to follow. Please RSVP so we can catch enough turkeys! [email protected].

14 AARP Driver Safety Review for all drivers. 6:00 p.m. Middleton Masonic Center, 7409 Franklin Avenue., Middleton. AARP Members $12, Nonmembers $14. Call 608-831-2373.

16 Valley of Eau Claire Scottish Rite Lodge Leadership and Planning Workshop, 9:30 a.m. at the Eau Claire Masonic Center. For incoming Masters and Wardens of the Lodges in Western Wisconsin. Registration Forms were mailed to all Lodges or you can also register now on line at the following link: http://scottishrite-ec.org/2013-lodge-leader ship-workshop.

21 Waucoma Lodge No. 90 Installation of Officers, 7:00 p.m., Cooksville Masonic Center, dinner follows.

27 West Salem Lodge No. 125, Lester’s Chili Feed, 6:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m., 101 W. Hamilton St. Contact [email protected].

DECEMBER

5-8 “A Christmas Carol”, Directed by Nancy Storrs, West Bend Masonic Center, 301 N. University Drive, West Bend. Special Mason’s Night Dec. 5. Tickets now on sale, www.westbendchristmascarol.com. See story on page 2. 7 Combined Public Installation of Officers, Shawano No. 170, Mason Woods No. 368, Antigo No. 231, Manawa No. 82 and Clintonville No. 197. 3:30 Installation, dinner to follow.

11 Jan Gorgen’s Retirement Party, at noon, in the Glenn L. Humphrey Lodge Room at the Masonic Village on the Square, on the Three Pillars Senior Living Communities Campus in Dousman. RSVP by Dec. 2, to Erika Miller. Phone: 262-965-2200, ext. 831 email: [email protected]. 13-15 “A Christmas Carol”, Directed by Nancy Storrs, West Bend Masonic Center, 301 N. University Drive, West Bend. Tickets now on sale, www.westbendchristmascarol.com. See story on page 2. 13

Shawano Lodge No. 170, Holiday Parade, Main St., 5:30 p.m.

13 Bethel #6 Job’s Daughters Honor Mason Night and Dessert Auction, 7:00 p.m., Lake Masonic Center, 1235 E. Howard Ave., Milwaukee.

14 Ozaukee Lodge No 17, Family Holiday Breakfast, 8:00 a.m., cost $5.00. All kids will receive a gift. Port Washington Masonic Center. Reservations requires contact Bro. Mark Flack at 414-491-0032 or [email protected].

14 District 9 “Improving Yourself through Masonry” Event. 8:30 a.m. Coffee & Carbs, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Event. This event includes Leadership Training, New Member Orientation. Term Planning, & Round table Brainstorming. Hosted by Janesville-Western Star Lodge No. 55, 2322 E. Milwaukee St, Janesville. Contact District 9 Deputy Paul T. Tourville at [email protected] or 414-6595205 with any questions. 21 Janesville-Western Star Lodge No. 55, Open Installation of Officers. 10:30 a.m. potluck brunch for Masons and their guests, 12:00 Installation of Officers.

Continued on page 10

Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of WI

@WI_Freemasons

THE WISCONSIN

Masonic Journal VOLUME XLVI, NUMBER 10

The Official Publication of the Grand Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin

Chartered in 1863, Sun Prairie Lodge Celebrates 150 Years

Officers of Sun Prairie Lodge are reinstalled by Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik during the reconsecration ceremony celebrating the Lodge’s 150th Anniversary. From left: Secretary Steve Breunig, Chaplain Dan Strausser, Junior Warden Brian Goff, Master Darrel Snyder and Senior Warden Gary Roth. Photo by Rich Rygh

By Rich Rygh Brethren, families and friends of Sun Prairie Lodge No. 143 celebrated the 150th Anniversary of the Lodge at the Sun Prairie Masonic Center on Oct. 13. Bro. Darrel Snyder, Master and his officers opened the lodge in public form. Bro. Snyder stated their Charter was granted on June 9, 1863 and on June 29, 1863 the officers were properly installed in due and ancient form. The Brethren of Sun Prairie Lodge are now desirous that their Lodge be rededicated and the current officers be ceremoniously reinstalled on this 150th year anniversary and await the pleasure of the Grand Master. Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik asked that the Lodge be uncovered and reconstituted the Lodge and reinstalled the officers according to ancient usage. Deputy Grand Master William Beetcher presented the following oration written by Grand Orator

Keith D. Chamberlain: There are few celebrations which occur within the boundaries of Feemasonry that are more noteworthy and uplifting than celebrating 150 years of Masonic heritage, history and good works within a community. In todays world of instant information flashed around the globe in a matter of nano-seconds, Freemasonry observes the ongoing march of time in a more reflective manner, noting the steady flow of events in a much more historical perspective. Wars are fought, cultures rise and fall, important discoveries are made and civilization is impacted in either a positive or a negative manner. All the while, our gentle craft continues on its steady course, set long ago by men who made it their personal charge to bring more light to those who could benefit from Freemasonry’s great promise. A charge taken up by all

who have since followed. Sun Prairie lodge No. 143 is no exception to that vision, receiving its charter in 1863. The recordings of the Grand Lodge session held on June 14, 1864 in Milwaukee indicate membership numbers which included 17 Master Masons, 3 Fellowcrafts and 5 Entered Apprentices. While these numbers may seem small, it is important to realize that in 1864 the entire membership of our Grand Lodge totaled 4,990. Several notable individuals are counted among this lodge’s membership, including 13 term Master Dr. Charles G. Crosse, who assisted in establishing the areas first high school as well as serving in the Wisconsin State Legislature; W. E. Angell, Sun Prairie’s first village president; Bro. George Hughey, Grand Master of Masons in Wisconsin; and more recently Tommy Thompson, former GovSee 150th on page 6

New MORI Roll Outs and Social Media are Topics at GL Officer Staff Meeting By Rich Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik and the Grand Lodge Officers met in Green Lake at the Heidel House on Sept. 27-29 for the fall staff meeting. The Strategic Planning Committee and the District Deputies met throughout the day on Friday. Deputy Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik opened the staff meeting Saturday morning at 8:30 a.m. The Grand Master reported that Imperial Shrine voted to allow non-Masons in Arkansas to become Shrine members. He felt that this is the crack in the door that will lead to the separation of Shrine in Masonry sometime in the future. The Grand Master stated there has been a lot of activity this year regarding the sale and purchase of buildings or the moving of lodges from one location to another. The Grand Secretary has put together a set of guidelines for the sale and purchase of buildings. This information is on the Grand Lodge

NOVEMBER 2013

The Grand Master’s Message: By Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Wisconsin Brother Daniel L. Slavik November is a very busy month for our Craft. Most, if not all, Lodges will be holding their election of officers for the next year. Many Lodges have an annual dinner either on election night or installation night. Other suggested programs for November include Ladies of the Table, Code Study Night, and Loud Shirt (Tie) Night. November is also the month that we celebrate Veteran’s Day. Take the time to thank the Veterans that you know, both in Lodge and the community with a special program. With their sacrifices, we enjoy our liberties and freedoms. This is also a great time to be in touch with our Brothers and their widows. There are leaves to be raked and gutters to be cleaned along with winterizing their homes. For December, besides Installation of Officers, suggested programs are Visitations to shut-ins and widows Grand Master and Feast of St. John celebration. At the 169th Annual Communication of the Daniel L. Slavik Grand Lodge F. & A.M. of the State of Wisconsin, the delegates voted on and approved several items recommended by now PGM Dennis V. Siewert. Two of these items are the clearing of petitions by the Grand Lodge office and the use of a form to be completed before a Brother can be suspended for non-payment of dues. I would like to inform you on the progress of these two, new procedures. The idea of having the Grand Lodge office clear petitions was to make sure all petitioners are entered into MORI. At the same time, the office will perform a background check at no cost to the lodge (that was part of the approved resolution). Let me assure you, the Grand Lodge office will not be passing judgment on the qualifications of the candidate. The task of running the background check will be performed by office staff and not a Grand Lodge officer. As defined by our Masonic Code, the entire process for interviewing and voting on a candidate is handled by the local Lodge, not Grand Lodge. Many Brothers are concerned that the Grand Lodge officers are trying to take power away from the local lodges. Grand Lodge officers do not want to take power away from the local Lodge, we only want to assist the Lodge and make the petition process easier and more consistent. The second process is the completion and submittal of the form (now referred to as Form 81) before a Brother can be suspended for non-payment of dues. As stated earlier, use of this form was voted on and approved by the voting delegates at Annual Communication. This form will be used to verify that Lodges follow the code when it comes to suspensions for non-payment of dues. All too often in the past, lodges sent out a letter to a Brother and when no reply was received, they simple suspended him. The lodge never checked to see if he was in distress or was in a nursing home/skilled care facility. Several Brothers that had been suspended had passed away! The Lodge failed to follow the Code and this has been an embarrassment to us all. The Brothers voted to put a stop to these shortcuts and make sure we follow the Wisconsin Masonic Code. If we truly believe in the tenets of our order, Friendship, Morality, and Brotherly Love, we should embrace this form as a checklist to make sure we are taking care of our Brothers. I spoke with the officers of one Lodge that went through the suspension process and used Form 81. They found several Brothers in financial distress and the lodge voted to remit the dues on their behalf. Without following the form, several Brothers would have been suspended. The lodge worked their list down from approximately 10 possible suspensions to 1 actual suspension. They provided excellent documentation, the form was approved by me, and the suspension has been entered into MORI. As long as procedures have been followed, there is no reason for a Grand Master to stand in the way of suspending a member in default. One Lodge with over 100 members has been in regular contact with all members for the past two years and this year everyone paid their dues. Now this Lodge also has programs on a regular basis to keep the Brothers involved and engaged. Form 81 will help the Lodges know why Brothers are no longer interested in Freemasonry. A wellrun Lodge won’t necessarily eliminate suspensions for non-payment of dues, but it will go a long way to reducing the occurrence of suspensions for this reason. Please remember that these two new procedures were voted on, and approved, by the delegates at the 169th Annual Communication for the Grand Lodge F. & A.M. of Wisconsin. Your Grand Lodge officers are working hard to implement these procedures with assistance and feedback from the Brothers. We appreciate comments that we have already received and look forward to hearing from more at the upcoming District meetings. See you in Lodge! Fraternally, Dan Slavik Grand Master

On Our Cover Amy Slavik assists Junior Grand Steward Kenneth Gorgen set up a Facebook account during her social media presentation. Photo by Rich Rygh

website at www.wisc-freemasonr y.org/publications/. It is extremely important for lodges to follow these guidelines and proceed according to code.

Deputy Grand Master William Beetcher gave a report on the 2013 Midwest Conference of See

Meeting on page 16

Ill∴ Michael A. DeWolf, Deputy for Wisconsin, Supreme Council 33º closes the 120th Wisconsin Council of Deliberation, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite at the Humphrey Scottish Rite Masonic Center in Milwaukee on Oct. 25. Celebrating 200 years of Brotherhood for the Scottish Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. The Valley of Milwaukee hosted three Wisconsin Valleys, Eau Claire, Green Bay and Madison for a Bicentennial Degree Day on Oct. 26. The Valley of Milwaukee is celebrating 150 years. Photo by Rich Rygh More photos on page 23

Thoughts for the Journey By Reverend David R. Ritchie, Grand Chaplain

Ladies attend Prairie View Lodge fundraiser The Grand Lodge Officers’ Ladies attended the Green Lake Fall Festival while the men were attending the fall staff meeting in Green Lake Sept. 27-29. Prairie View Lodge No. 95 was having a scholarship fundraiser which the ladies were happy to support, and got a delicious lunch out of it! Ladies (from left): Jax Eisenmann, Laura Slavik, Pat Beetcher, Cindy Humphrey, Sharon Mielke, Ann Benedict and Lois Hensiak. Submitted by Laura Slavik

Something to Think About! "In order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure." - Bill Cosby From District 8 Deputy Marc Steiber

Email your Lodge news to [email protected].

Published by the Grand Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin

November 2013 The Wisconsin Masonic Journal, Publication Number 011-551 (ISSN No. 10770410), is the authorized publication of the Grand Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin. It is published monthly except for the July/August issue which is combined. Periodical postage paid at Dousman, Wisconsin 53118 and additional offices. Postmasters: send address changes to The Wisconsin Masonic Journal, 36275 Sunset Drive, Dousman, WI 53118.

Subscription Rates: Non-members (within United States): $15.00 per year (payable in advance) Non-members (mailed outside of the United States): $50.00 (payable in advance) Members: $8.50 per year (included in the Grand Lodge per-capita)

HARDER FUNERAL HOME

Editorial Production Office Richard A. Rygh, Editor 5823 Madsen Circle, Oregon, WI 53575 email: [email protected] Phone 262-965-2200 Ext. 808

DEAN K. HARDER,

Advertising Office Phone/FAX 262-965-3979 Diane Igl, Advertising Manager email: [email protected]

President

Advertising rates upon request. Deadline for submission of advertising copy is the tenth of each month preceding month of scheduled publication.

18700 West Capitol Drive Brookfield, Wisconsin 53045 (262) 781-8350

Directory of Grand Lodge Officers & Contacts Elected Officers

Senior Grand Deacon

District 2

Daniel L. Slavik (63) Res. 608-244-4562 Cell 608-395-5355

L. Arby Humphrey (329) Res. 715-364-2492 Cell 715-815-1032

Gary L. Stang (351) Res. 715-835-7153 Cell 715-864-6813

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Junior Grand Deacon

Grand Master

Deputy Grand Master William Beetcher (244) Res. 715-349-8021 Cell 715-566-0350 [email protected]

Senior Grand Warden Franklin J. Struble (60) Res. 715-924-2142 Cell 608-633-0154 [email protected]

Junior Grand Warden Donald W. Hensiak (189) Res. 262-682-4390 Cell 414-333-0060

Grand Marshal

Grand Treasurer

John W. Krinke (37) Cell 262-993-2225

[email protected]

Grand Secretary Michael A. DeWolf, PGM (267) Res. 715-574-3151 Bus. 262-965-2200 Ext. 807 Cell 715-574-3151 grandsecretary @wisc-freemasonry.org

Appointed Officers Grand Chaplain David R. Ritchie (64) Res. (608) 776-2698 [email protected]

Grand Lecturer Davey L. White Jr. (4) Res. 608-348-9352 Cell 608-732-3122 [email protected]

Grand Lodge F. & A. M. of Wisconsin

District 3

36275 Sunset Dr.

John C. Tilley (366) Dousman, WI 53118 Scott E. Pedley (25) Res. 715-272-1295 Res. 608-759-2081 [email protected] 262-965-2200 Cell 608-482-0424 District 4 [email protected] Christian M. Hirthe (322) Grand Secretary: Senior Grand Steward Res. 920-954-0168 Robert C. Strader (363) Michael DeWolf, PGM - Ext. 807 Cell 920-328-7106 [email protected] Res. 262-827-1606 grandsecretary District 5 Cell 414-678-8785 @wisc-freemasonry.org James M. Kent (252) [email protected] Work 715-834-7676 Receptionist: Junior Grand Steward Cell 715-456-8814 Kenneth C. Gorgen (307) Cheryl Martin - Ext. 800 [email protected] Res. 262-691-0859 [email protected] District 6 Cell 414-758-8729 A. Christopher Gans (123) Office Manager: [email protected] Res. 715-467-2506

[email protected]

John A. Benedict (151) Res. 608-835-3705

Grand Lodge Office

[email protected]

Jan Gorgen - Ext. 803 [email protected]

District 7

Craig J. Froelich (9) Res. 608-258-8814

Bookkeeper:

[email protected] [email protected]

Grand Orator

Keith D. Chamberlain (66) Res. 608-538-3173 [email protected]

Grand Tiler Raymond E. Mielke (72) Cell 608-235-8126 [email protected]

District Deputies District 1 George T. Eisenmann III (329) Res. 715-394-6630 Cell 612-325-6692 [email protected]

Alicia Darr - Ext. 804 [email protected]

District 8

Marc B. Steiber (8) Cell 608-306-1333

[email protected]

District 9

Paul T. Tourville (60) Cell 414-659-5205

Wisconsin Masonic Journal

David E. Tainter (17) Cell 262-689-2848

District 10

Richard A. Rygh, Editor 262-965-2200 Ext. 808

District 11

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Michael A. Gorgen (307) Cell 262-820-0812

[email protected]

District 12

Patrick D.Cholka (301) Res. 414-475-9660 Cell 414-254-5543 [email protected]

PAGE 2 - WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Ad Manager Diane Igl, [email protected]

262-965-3979 36275 Sunset Dr., Dousman, WI 53118

What do the rough sands of the sea, the pinnacles of the temple, and the four winds of heaven have in common? They are unsanctified burial places. In the Jewish and, until recently, Christian traditions having your remains deposited in one of these places would have kept you from reaching that celestial lodge above. There were strict rules governing how and where a body could be laid to rest. In the book of Genesis (3:9) the Supreme Architect tells Adam, “From dust you came and unto dust you shall return.” Therefore a body must be buried and must be whole, nothing removed. Cremation was practiced in other parts of the world, but only outlaws and those who had been cast out of the church were cremated. Until the 19th and 20th centuries how and where you were buried was important. Sancti- Rev. David Ritchie fied ground was necessary for a burial but was Grand Chaplain kept for those who had been part of that faith. A priest, most often a Bishop, or other clergy would bless the plot of ground. This ground was then kept holy. In 725 a German bishop declared, and passed into law, that all places of burial have a fence or wall around them to prevent animals from grazing. Criminals, the unbaptized, suicides, and the such were buried outside the fence. In the middleages these people were often buried at cross roads or other public places where their graves would be certain to be trod upon. We are all familiar with the graves around a church. The churchyard was already sanctified so it became a place of burial. In Europe and early America these church yards would surround a church on the south, west, and east sides. These would be fenced in and the ground well cared for. On the north side of the church there often were one or two unkept stones. Those who where deemed unworthy to be interred in the sanctified ground. The ground was sanctified on the south, west, and east but not in the north. The early church considered the north a place of darkness and unfit for burial. Graves were dug so that they ran due east and west. The head is laid to the west looking upon the east. In the US and Europe 97% of all graves are situated to the East. In the Jewish tradition this is in imitation of the situation of the Tabernacle and later the Temple. In the Christian faith because it was believed that the resurrection would come from the east. Rural Cemeteries are often placed on hill tops or high ground as this was seen as solid ground that did not shift or settle unduly. In the middle ages the Guilds often took it upon themselves to see that their members received the burials that they deserved. Often within a guild a confraternity was formed. A confraternity was a group of lay men formed, with the blessing of the church, to do special or religious works, for the poor or those without families. In early America, up to today, one of the things that drew men to groups like the Odd Fellows and Freemasons was the assurance of a decent funeral. These men often worked dangerous occupations and had left family hundreds if not thousands of miles away. Today our Masonic Memorial services are part of this tradition started by the guilds. So what constitutes a consecrated ground? Land that did not flood, and thereby wash away the soil or body. Land that had not been desecrated by violence or unpure acts. Land that had been blessed. Traditionally land away from inhabitants; originally because of fear of disease and later because of the feelings of peace and quiet found in isolated areas. Yet even with consecrated ground there is a hierarchy. A graveyard (burial place unattached to a place of worship) was seen as not as desirable as a churchyard. Within a churchyard those buried along the Eastern Edge or under a dominate symbol (a communal cross or statue) are considered more sacred than other areas of the yard. Burial within the church was seen as even more sacred and special. Finally burial within a Cathedral was seen as the ultimate spot for burial. A Cathedral was the seat of a bishop and seen as a holier place than a simple church or cemetery. The famous are still often laid to rest in cathedrals and churches. Westminster in London is the final resting place of kings, authors, poets, and other notables of society. Local dignitaries are often laid to rest beneath the floors or with in the walls of local churches. Internment with in or near the altar was seen a the ultimate honor for burial. Today we still honor those of great fidelity and character by burying them as close to the sanctum sanctorum as possible. Our fraternity seems filled with symbols and examples of death and burial. On that solemn note I urge you my Brothers to remember the acacia and its promise. May that promise designate our resting places and those of our Brothers. Grand Chaplain David R. Ritchie can be reached at [email protected] or 608-776-2698.

Attend and Support Your Lodge!

West Bend “Christmas Carol” Mason’s Night is December 5 Opening night, December 5, is Mason's Night at the 4th annual performance of “A Christmas Carol” in West Bend. Masons will save $3 per ticket on Mason's Night only. Mason's Night is to encourage a capacity audience, and to promote Brotherhood this holiday season. Lodges are encouraged to organize a group outing to see the show as part of their holiday activities. The goal is to sell out the house and support the cast who annually present a first rate presentation for West Bend Lodge. Masons will save $3 per ticket on Mason's Night only. Tickets went on sale October 1 at www.westbendchristmascarol.com, use promotional code “HIRAM” to assure your discount on Mason’s Night tickets. New for 2013 the show, directed by Nancy Storrs, will be performed "in the round" so that no seat is farther than four rows from the performers. A full "Londoner's Chorus" with

classic Victorian Christmas Carols woven into the performance is also new. Carols will be hummed or sung in four part harmony by a mixed chorus of mature voices. The 2:00 or 4:00 Matinee Performances work well for "Dinner and a Show" evenings with your spouse. Several area restaurants are partnering with West Bend Lodge and providing discounts for theater attendees. Contact Nancy Storrs for details on area restaurants at info@WestBendChristmas Carol.com Masons and DeMolays will once again offer fresh oven-baked treats, hot cocoa, spiced mulled cider, and coffee or water at very nominal prices. All proceeds help support the West Bend Masonic Lodge, who in turn provides community outreach by presenting their annual production of A Christmas Carol, and $6,000 in scholarships to West Bend area high school students. Located just 35 minutes from

most Milwaukee area lodges, the West Bend Masonic Center offers easy parking, an intimate venue, and accessible seating for seniors. Lodges, individuals and businesses are encouraged to consider program book advertising in support of their favorite actor. More information is available at www.westbendchristmascarol. com or email Nancy Storrs at info@WestBendChristmasCarol. com.

“A Christmas Carol” December 5, 6, 7, 13, 14 at 7:30 p.m. December 7 & 14 at 2:00 p.m. December 8 & 15 at 4:00 p.m.

West Bend Masonic Center 301 N. University Drive, West Bend Tickets on sale at www.westbendchristmascarol.com

Ebenezer Scrooge played by Jim Mohr looks in on the future as the Cratchit family mourns the loss of Tiny Tim in the 2012 performance. Photo by Rich Rygh

Ask Hiram ? [email protected]

Question: The process of studying after each degree is called posting. How did it get that name. Also, when the candidate is demonstrating proficiency in the lodge, I have heard that called posting, an examination, and proving up. Which is correct? – Bro. Charles Answer: This is a tough question. I’m not sure who was the first to tag the learning of degree work as “posting”, but the term actually means a transfer of knowledge or information. At times you will hear our lectures called the Masonic posting lectures. Masonic knowledge can be thought of as encoded knowledge which is information that is conveyed in signs and symbols. Masonic posting is the transfer of a specific type of knowledge. Outside of masonry, the term is use as an action word and again it is the transferring of information. In accounting, funds are posted to either side of the ledger, postings are put up on information boards, and you could probably even carry it as far as the Postal Service that transfers information from one place to another. If there is a reader out there that has more information on this, please send it to Ask Hiram. When the candidate is learning from his mentor, he is posting. This sometimes confused with the examination in the lodge. When the candidate enters the lodge room with his “poster”, he is no longer posting, but taking his examination. Sometimes the term “prove up” is used meaning that the candidate is validating his learning or posting. Question: I recalled hearing

about or seeing the subject and am unsure where I heard about it [Past Master’s Degree]. Accordingly, I am wondering if you could enlighten me about it as follows: 1.) Is there a Past Master’s Degree within the Wisconsin Freemasonry ritual? 2.) Is a Past Master’s Degree something that Wisconsin does? Is a Past Master’s Degree something that an individual Lodge does? 3.) As I now recall, I believe that I saw or heard about the Past Master’s Degree while traveling internationally and attending Lodges internationally. Anything you can provide regarding this, I would greatly appreciate. – Bro. Glen Answer: There are many variations and many types of Past Master Degrees in Masonry. In some of the Wisconsin Lodges the Past Masters will join to put on a Master Mason degree, but I’m sure that is not what you meant by your questions. The Past Master’s Degree can be an honorary ceremony which is conferred on the Master of a Lodge when he is installed into office. When a Brother, who has never before presided has been elected Master of a Lodge, a group of Past Masters convene a Lodge of Past Master’s and confer the degree upon the newly elected officer. From historical information from the Grand Lodge of England, this was an esoteric ceremony that was performed on the outgoing Master. It may have been

as simple as the outgoing Master sharing certain modes of recognition which to this day might constitute the essential ingredient of the Past Master's Degree. Let’s not forget the Royal Arch degrees. Called the 5th degree, the Past Master Degree came into being as a degree of Royal Arch which was conferred by the Blue Lodge only on actual Past Masters. The degree was establish so all worthy Brethren could receive the Royal Arch degree. The first record of its conferral is found in 1768 in England. Now Duncan’s Masonic Ritual and Monitor puts on a different twist to this degree. “The Past Master, or 5th degree in Masonry was instituted to try the qualifications of a Master Mason before becoming Master of a Lodge, and no Mason can constitutionally preside over a Lodge of Master Masons unless he has been admitted to this Degree. A Mason usually takes this Degree before offering himself as a candidate for presiding in a Master's Lodge; but should it so happen that a Mason

NOTES FROM THE GRAND LECTURER By Brother Davey L. White Jr., PGM Brethren, As I write this article, I am filled with a true sense of loss as our lodge has just lost a 62 year member. While he did not live close enough to attend Lodge on a regular basis, he supported the Lodge in everything he did. He personally supported me on my rise through the several Grand Lodge offices on my way to becoming Grand Master of Masons in Wisconsin and I could never repay him for all the kindness and Brotherly Love he showed to me and the Lodge members. I had the honor and privilege to travel to La Crosse and preside over his Masonic Memorial Service. While it is emotionally one of the hardest things for me to do, it also fills me with a sense Davey L. White Jr. of love for my Brother who has moved on to a Grand Lecturer fairer and nobler place. This is an opportunity to pay a tribute of affection to not only our departed Brother, but his family also. One of the lessons we are taught in Masonry is our mortality and immortality. We have several sections of our ritual that deal with these subjects. During these times of loss we need to really search our ritual and our own personal books of laws for guidance and consolation. It provides us with guidance and a sense of closure. As I prepared for this particular Masonic service I kept coming back to one of my favorite lessons in our ritual, the three steps. The three steps we all know deals with the different stages of human life and our Masonic journey. While reflecting on the life of our departed Brother, I was reminded of what it takes to be a great Mason. It is not about how many offices you have held, or whether you have risen to the level of Grand Master. It’s more about how you have conducted yourself in your daily and family life. You can always tell a Masonic family by their principles and how they treat other people on a daily basis. They have a true sense of what Brotherly Love and Friendship are all about. They are always ready to lend a hand regardless of what the program or chore may be. They are there to relieve not only our Brother Masons, but also people they may not know. They are honest and upright in all their dealings whether in their business or family life. As I reflected on the step of age for our departed Brother, I couldn’t help but to be filled with a sense of pride for knowing such a fine upstanding man. In searching my memory I was sure he could look back on a life well spent doing good deeds for all people who had the opportunity to know him. He had truly kept his Masonic Apron free from blemish and left a lasting memory and impression on our Fraternity. I would encourage all Masons to poor out in numbers for all departed Masons. It is a great opportunity to show our communities and members the sense of brotherhood that binds us together as Master Masons. I write this in memory of Brother Alfred Audetat. I am a better person and Mason for having the pleasure of knowing you. Until we meet again in the celestial lodge above my Brother. Fraternally, Davey L. White Jr. Feedback and questions are always welcome. Contact Grand Lecturer Davey L. White Jr. at [email protected] or 608-732-3122

is elected Master of a Lodge who is not a Past Master, the Past Master's Degree may be conferred upon him without any other ceremony than that of administering the obligation. In such a case it is usually done by Royal Arch Masons, acting by order of a Grand Master”. Please note that Duncan’s Monitor was written in 1866. A lot has changed since then. The Past Master’s degree is used in the United States, but it would be more appropriate to look at it as part of Royal Arch Masonry. There is nothing formal in the Wisconsin Masonic Ritual for a Past Master’s degree. I’m sure some lodges might have a Past Master’s club which might have an initiation, but nothing formal.

Freemasonry, such as the code, ritual, Grand Lodge Office, etc.? Then you need to ask Hiram. Please send your questions to askhiram@wisc-freemason ry.org or mail your question to the Grand Lodge Office, c/o Ask Hiram, 36275 Sunset Drive, Dousman, WI 53118, and Bro. Hiram will receive them.

Address Changing? Remember to notify your lodge secretary or the Grand Lodge Office of your change of address.

email Cheryl Martin [email protected]

Do you have a question about

WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013 - PAGE 3

Ozaukee Lodge Presents AEDs

Dousman Lodge assists Fire District A check for $4,000 was recently presented to the Dousman Fire District by the Dousman Lodge No. 315 from the Wisconsin Masonic Medical Foundation. The Lodge sponsored the Fire District for the Foundation's Matching Grant program to help the District fund their community campaign to raise funds for the upgrade of the District's EMS service to full paramedic status. The Fire District goal for the Community Campaign is $30,000. From left: "Butch" Roehl, Master of Dousman Lodge; Steve Totzke, Dousman Fire Chief and Terry Brown, Lodge Secretary. Submitted by Bro. Terry Brown, Secretary

November 2013 Dear Brethren, Ladies, and Friends, Last month I talked about fall and what a beautiful time of year it is in Wisconsin. We are in full bloom in Dousman and Cecil and I invite you to take time to enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds us by stopping in for a visit. There are many things that remind me that fall is in the air, however today I’d like to focus on two things that are close to me. First, on October 18, 2013 we celebrated our 21st Annual Halloween Haunted Woods event. On behalf of all of us at Three Pillars I’d like to thank so many of you in the fraternity that supported our event. I’d also like to thank our staff and volunteers for their hard work. It was another great year and I’m happy to report that we had nearly 1,200 people come through our grounds and we collected enough food to feed 60 area families. There are plenty of photos and video on our Facebook page so please take a look. My second point has to do with the upcoming holidays. As we get closer to Thanksgiving I’d like to share something that perhaps many have not heard before. Each year it seems to me that we as a society become further removed from what the holidays are about. I think the paragraph below, taken from a larger proclamation from 1863, is a good reminder to all of us about what is most important. “The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God. . .” -- Abraham Lincoln, Thanksgiving Proclamation, October 3, 1863 Wishing you and your family a blessed Thanksgiving. Fraternally,

Mark Strautman President & CEO

-

Fill Out, Clip and Mail Today

Wisconsin Masonic Charities Enclosed is my donation for: [ ] Grand Master’s Appeal – Masonic Youth Fund [ ] Wisconsin Masonic Foundation [ ] Wisconsin Masonic Foundation Medical Fund [ ] Wisconsin Masonic Home Acoustical Improvements [ ] Wisconsin Masonic Home, Inc. [ ] Wisconsin Masonic Home Endowment [ ] Wisconsin Masonic Journal Fund [ ] Wisconsin Masonic Service & Assistance Fund [ ] Wisconsin Masonic Soccer Fund [ ] Designated for______________________________________ [ ] In honor of: ________________________________________ [ ] In memory of: ______________________________________

Ozaukee Lodge No. 17 recently presented AEDs to two youth football teams. The Grafton Gladiators and Saukville Rebels. The Lodge funded the AEDs with matching grants from the Wisconsin Masonic Medical Foundation. Top photo (from left): Sid Arthur, Past Master; Mark Gall, Grafton Gladiators; Gary McLellan, Past Master; Tim Schwister, Mark Flack, Master; Jesse Schubert, Senior Warden; and Jon Ziegler, Junior Warden. At right: Past Master Sid Arthur presents an AED to Al Lopez, vice-president and head coach of the Saukville Rebels Youth Football Program. Submitted by Bro. Sid Arthur

Thanks to Your Generosity We have Met Our Goal! By Erika Miller Development Officer It is with gratitude that I write to report to you that the Fundraising Goal for the Acoustical Improvements Appeal for the Glen L. Humphrey Community Center has been met. We could not have done it without the generosity and support of our Masonic Family and friends of the Masonic Home. When we wrote our original appeal letter we were reminded: “that as we age all of us will face new challenges. Perhaps it’s a little harder to see, or it’s tougher to hear. When we’re young it’s easier to take these things for granted, but the ability to interact with all of our senses is a critical part of experiencing and participating in the world around us. The Glenn L. Humphrey Community Center is used by our Brothers, OES, Three Pillars’ residents, friends, family, and community members. The goal is to retrofit the area with

LIKE the Wisconsin Masonic Charities on Facebook!

Make your check payable to the benevolence you have selected above and mail to: Wisconsin Masonic Charities 36275 Sunset Drive, Dousman, WI 53118 Phone 262-965-2200 • email: [email protected]

Gift Report for September 2013 Wisconsin Masonic Foundation General Fund: Kohl’s In Memory of Richard Reilly Wautoma Lodge Blue Slipper Pins: William Moore, John Swanson Grand Master’s Appeal–Youth Fund: Josef Pronnet

Richard Hansen

FUNERAL SERVICE

Zip_________

Memorials and Contributions

Acoustical Improvements Appeal:

Address ________________________________________________ City_______________________ State________

Support Your Wisconsin Masonic Charities

Wisconsin Masonic Home

Please acknowledge to: Name ___________________________

Date___________________

the acoustical improvements possible. You have made a difference in the lives of current and future residents and brothers. It is through support of friends like you that Three Pillars continues to serve as a positive representation of Wisconsin Masonry. On behalf of the residents and staff of Three Pillars thank you for your support.

Caring to Grow Campaign:

Schmidt & Bartelt

Amount _____________________

acoustical panels to make it easier for those attending programs to hear what is going on around them. These “A100 Series Acoustical Panels” by Wall Technology are specialized ceiling and wall panels designed for use where sound absorption and noise control are essential.” You took the cause to heart and supported our fund drive, making

A Friend to the Family

Harry Blackbourn Sr., Dousman Lodge, Eagle River Lodge General Fund: Estate of Albert C. Holmquist, Miklasevich Living Trust Village on the Square Garden Club: Barbro Felleson Ofenbeck, John Gardner, Marylee Hanson

774-5010 • Wauwatosa • Mequon • Mukwonago • Menomonee Falls • Sussex • Oconomowoc


Wisconsin Masonic Service and Assistance General Fund: Steven Bonk, Florine Dryer

Jan Gorgen to Retire

Geneva Lodge honors Brothers for years of service Geneva Lodge No. 44 recently honored Brothers for years of service. From left: Bob Grohall, 25 years; Dick Redell, 50 years; Gerald Steinke, 25 years; Roland Schroeder, 55 years; Armin Fiedler, 50 years; Frank Chesen, 65 years; Steve Kramer, 25 years; Carl Woodward, 60 years; and John Wozniak 25 years. Bro. Redell was raised on April 14, 1962; Bro. Schroeder was raised on Nov. 13, 1956; Bro. Fiedler was raised on June 5, 1958 in Constellation Lodge No. 974, Des Plaines, Ill.; Bro. Chesen was raised on Aug. 30, 1946 in McHenry Lodge No. 158, McHenry, Ill.; and Bro. Woodward was raised on March 4, 1952 in New Richmond Lodge No. 195, New Richmond.

Please join us for a luncheon on Wednesday, Dec. 11, at Noon to celebrate Jan Gorgen’s many years of dedicated service to the Grand Lodge F. & A.M. of Wisconsin. She will be retiring from her position as office manager at the end of this year. The luncheon will be held in the Glenn L. Humphrey Lodge Room at the Masonic Village on the Square, on the Three Pillars Senior Living Communities Campus in Dousman. RSVP at your earliest convenience to Erika Miller. Replies requested no later than Monday, December 2nd. Spouses/ guests welcome. Business casual attire. Phone: 262-965-2200, ext. 831, or [email protected].

Jan Gorgen

Wisconsin Masonic Charities Erika Miller, Development Officer [email protected]

Submitted by Bro Bob Grohall

BUSINESS CARD ADVERTISING Support the businesses that support your Wisconsin Masonic Journal!

R O B E R T S O N R YA N & A S S O C I AT E S , I N C .

CHARLES V. JOHNSON Sr. Vice-President of Agency Development Complete insurance for Personal, Commercial, National and International Programs 20975 Swenson Drive, Suite 175, Waukesha, WI 53186 Phone 414-271-3575 -- Fax 262-717-9434 Cellular 414-333-4059 – Home 262-567-7712 email: [email protected]

Advertise in the

Wisconsin Masonic Journal The Number 1 Source for Reaching the Masons of Wisconsin

Contact Diane Igl Email: [email protected]

Phone 262-965-3979


Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik Visits VA Hospital in Madison By Rich Rygh Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik and his Lady Laura toured the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison on Friday afternoon, October 4. The tour was arranged by Bro. Laverne Storkson, Masonic Service Association Representative. The Masonic Service Association provides a coffee service five days per week, the volunteers work at the information desk, transport patients around the hospital, transport records around the hospital as needed and provide a chapel service on Sunday. Brethren from local lodges come in on Sunday and work as chapel escorts for the patients and provide refreshments after the church service. These services are provided to all patients, not just Masons. Rated at the top of the VA hospitals in the nation, this hospital provides the finest care for our veterans including transplant surgery care. Director of the Hospital Judy McKee stated the hospital has a new state-of-the-art operating room that opened since last year on the seventh floor, and a new ICU will be opened in the next year on the eight floor. The radiology area and physical therapy department have been remodeled and a new roof top garden has opened on the second floor. She said they also have a new building for the clinic in Baraboo. McKee explained they are one of the few VA hospitals that take care of transplant patients. The transplants are done at the adjoining UW Hospital. She said they have veterans coming from all over the United States. Associate Director John Rohrer stated they also have their Community Living Center with 26 beds out front for patients who

don't need full hospital care but aren't ready to go home. Also included is a four unit hospice setup with rooms for families. It is a bright, beautiful area including a garden. Rohrer said their primary service area is 20 counties, including 15 in Wisconsin and 5 in northern Illinois which includes clinics in Baraboo, Beaver Dam, Janesville, Freeport and Rockford. Most of their primary care is done at the Madison West Annex at 1 Science Drive, Madison. Together they see 40,000 veterans per year, only 25% coming from Dane County. Patients are seen form all 50 states including Puerto Rico each year. The Madison facility furnishes practically all specialities. Any services not available can be handled through the University Hospital. It does not yet do radiation therapy, but it is approved and when money is available it will be included. Radiation Therapy patients are now sent to Milwaukee. Rohrer stated the affiliation with the UW Hospital is very positive for them and the veterans. It is also positive for UW, the VA trains many of their physicians, 78% of the doctors in this country come through a VA facility. Chief of Public Affairs Tim Donovan took the group on a tour of the facility including the Community Living Center. The Hospital opened in 1951 as a TB facility, 23 years later the UW Hospital, established in 1924, moved in to their new facility adjacent to the VA Hospital. A recognition dinner for the volunteers followed the tour at the Radisson Hotel in Madison. MSA Representative Laverne Storkson thanked the volunteers for their many hours of volunteering. He extended greetings from our Past MSA Coordinator Bro.

Hospital Director Judy McKee answers questions from Laura Slavik and Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik. seated behind are Volunteer Bro. Vande Pryor and hospital Chief of Public Affairs Tim Donovan. Photos by Rich Rygh Beecher Daniels, PGM, who was unable to attend. Tim Donovan thanked the Brethren and ladies for the privilege to attend the dinner. He said with the government shutdown it has been a interesting week. The Veterans Health Administration is however still operating their 152 hospitals and 800 outpatient clinics. The Madison VA facilities have about 129 inpatients and about 1000 outpatients each day. Donovan said the MSA is not one of the largest volunteer organizations at the hospital with 25 volunteers, it represents only about three per cent of our total volunteers of 814. You however contributed 4,933 hours which is six per cent of the hours donated this year. He said I have gotten to know most of the volunteers. I count the money every day and a typical day brings in $50 to $60. During the course of a year about $14,000 gets contributed from the coffee cart. This money pays for the coffee and the rest is used to by newspaper subscriptions for the inpatients and WiFi for pa-

Bro. Laverne Storkson receives an award for ten years of volunteer service to the Masonic Service Association. Bro. Storkson is the MSA Representative for the hospital. The award was presented by MSA Coordinator Roger Magoon, Past Grand Master (center), and Grand Master Daniel L.Slavik. tients and their families. MSA Coordinator Roger Magoon thanked each and everyone of the volunteers, many of which have been volunteering for many years. He said he plans to work with the Grand Master, District Deputies and Area Administrators to help fill any volunteer needs in the future. He also thanked the Madison area lodges that participate in the Sunday chapel escort program. Bro. Magoon introduced Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik and they presented Bro. Laverne Storkson with a certificate of service award for 10 years as MSA Representative in Madison from Bro. George O. Braatz Executive Secretary of

150th

Chief of Public Affairs Tim Donovan (right) conducts the tour through the hospital including the state-of-the-art Community Living Center. From left: Bro. Jerry Potter; State MSA Coordinator Roger L. Magoon, PGM; Laura Slavik, Volunteer Shirley Storkson, Volunteer Bro. Vande Pryor; MSA Representative Laverne Storkson and Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik.


the MSA. Bro. Storkson thanked the volunteers and said this is yours also. He said starting next year Bro. Vande Pryor will be the new Representative. Grand Master Slavik thanked the volunteers for the service they give to the veterans. He said, “The Masonic Fraternity is not a charity, but it is charitable by nature. When we live out the tenets of our order of Friendship, Morality and Brotherly Love, being charitable and helping those less fortunate is just a natural part of what we do. This lives out in our service to our veterans.” MSA Representative Laverne Storkson closed the evening with a prayer.

from page 1

ernor of Wisconsin. Each one ably assisted by their Lodge Brothers in attaining the goals sought for themselves as well as for their lodge and the institution of Freemasonry. Brothers whose names may have faded somewhat in the mists of time, but are equally important just the same–for no flower can flourish without its roots supplying all that is needed to help it grow. MWGM Myron Reed, in his address to the 45th Annual Communication held in Milwaukee on June 11 & 12, 1889 put these profound thoughts forth: “Masonry is said to be a system of morality. The lessons it inculcates are certainly the essence of good in our natures. Whatever makes truth persuasive or attractive; whatever cements the Brethren in the bonds of Friendship and Brotherly Love; whatever makes us true, constant and helpful to each other; whatever sustains a weary soul in distress and comforts one ‘in doubtful times and troublous need’; whatever makes charity a practical duty; whatever circumscribes our passions and keeps them within due bounds; whatever puts under foot all that is bad in us and gives ascendency to all that is good, is ours to cherish and uphold, let it come from whence it may; and if Masonry teaches all this and more, then it furnishes an incentive to uphold its standard and maintain it at whatever cost.” Brethren, friends and guests I submit to you that in marking this 150th anniversary celebration, we

are honoring not only this lodge and its members past and present, but also focusing the light of Freemasonry on a series of events which encompass a century and a half. The inception of Sun Prairie Lodge may have been inauspicious, but over the course of those years, it has become what is today, a solid, well grounded group of men sharing the ideals, vision and hope for the future their founding fathers shared so many years ago. Goals each of us may well find valuable in the governance, growth and interaction of all lodges within our great jurisdiction. Members of Sun Prairie Lodge No. 143, the singular feat of maintaining 150 years of Freemasonry within this community is truly an example worth emulating and you are to be highly congratulated for your dedication and efforts. Grand Master Slavik declared, “This Lodge has been reconstituted to three things: Freemasonry, Virtue and Universal Benevolence.” Master Darrel Snyder introduced his officers and the Grand Master introduced his officers after which the lodge was closed. Job’s Daughters Bethel No. 44 performed the Living Cross. Following the ceremony everyone gathered in the dining room for ice cream and cake.

See photos on page 11


News Events from the Lodges

Mason Woods Lodge makes donation Past Masters Fred Goering and Hugo Peters of Mason Woods Lodge No. 368, Cecil, present their annual donation to Linda Clark of the Cecil Food Pantry. Submitted by Bro. Hugo Peters

Bro. Roy Hormig honored for 60 years of service Bro. Roy Hormig was recently honored in Morning Star Lodge No. 10, Beloit, for 60 years of service to Freemasonry. Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik presented the award. Bro. Hormig was raised on Oct. 5, 1953. His brother Paul Hormig and nephews Brian Hormig and Brad Hormig were present to honor Bro. Roy. All are Perpetual Members of Morning Star Lodge. His late father, Bro. Charles Hormig, was a 55 year member raised on Jan. 19, 1921 in Baraboo Lodge No. 34 and transferred to Morning Star Lodge in 1947. Bros. from left: Brian Hormig; Duane Harvey, Master; Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik; Roy Hormig; Paul Hormig; and Brad Hormig. Photo by Rich Rygh

Hancock Lodge captures friendship gavel Brethren of Hancock Lodge No. 229, Ellsworth, made a visit to CollinsSpring Valley Lodge No. 192, Baldwin, on Oct. 13. Collins-Spring Valley Lodge was conferring a Fellowcraft degree on Brother Dan James. Receiving the Friendship gavel from Master David Griffith (right) is Steve Broton, Master of Hancock Lodge.The Friendship gavel was originated and made by the late Past Master John Berggren of River Falls. Photo by Milt Helmer

Ozaukee Lodge assists food pantry Ozaukee Lodge No. 17 made a contribution of $1000 to the Saukville Community Food Pantry on September 24, at St. Peter’s United Church Of Christ in Saukville. This was done to assist in the immediate relief of the hungry in the community, regardless of the circumstances leading to their current necessity. The money was raised by the Brethren serving refreshments at the Main Stage tent during the week of the Ozaukee County Fair. From left: Bro. Gary McCullen, Past Master; Bethel Metz, Job's Daughters GS and Member of the Board Of Directors of the Food Pantry; Bro. Tim Schwister; Bro. Mark Flack, Master; Bro. Jesse Schubert, Senior Warden; and Mark Gierach, Executive Director Saukville Community Food Pantry. Submitted by Bro. Tim Schwister

Island City Lodge honors Past Masters Island City Lodge No. 330 honored it's Past Masters with a dinner on September 21, in Minocqua. Masonry has strong ties in Minocqua. The original Minocqua Lodge No. 330 was active from 1921 until it merged into Rhinelander-Lakeland Lodge No. 242 in 1982. Masonry returned to the Northern Wisconsin community when Island City Lodge No. 330 received it’s new charter in 2000. Past Masters from left: Darrell Tarnow, 2003 & 2011; Jon Mundy, 2008; Tom Shoulders, 2001; Dave Imlah, 2013; Wally Semenok,1980, original Minocqua Lodge No. 330; Bob Latzel, 2004; Al Jurgens 2002, 2006, & 2007, and Dick Hansen, 2009. Not pictured: Arden Mikich, 2000; Rich Rhyner, 2005; Bob Eckert, 2010; and Bill Hughes 2012. Submitted by Bro. Dave Imlah, Master

Shriners believe in you. When you become a Shriner you become part of a brotherhood of men committed to family, engaged in ongoing personal growth, and dedicated to providing care for children in need. Becoming a Shriner is easier than you think and its rewards can be far more than you expect. Take the first step, visit our website .


Camp Douglas Lodge Hunter’s Night Masons and area sportsmen and ladies enjoyed the Annual Camp Douglas Lodge No. 272 Hunter’s Night at the Target Bluff German Haus in Camp Douglas on Sept. 30. Bro. Rolf Kurandt served a fine prime rib and ham buffet. This annual event is a fundraiser which helps provide funding for checks in the amount of $600 presented each year to Camp Douglas, Oakdale, Warrens, Wyeville, Necedah and New Lisbon Elementary Schools. The Lodge also provides $500 scholarships annually to Tomah and Necedah high school graduates, to attend college or technical school. The meal ticket included a raffle ticket for drawings on several rifles and shotguns and tickets were sold during the evening for an opportunity to win many other sporting and hunting related items. It was a fun evening with many happy winners.

Bro. Rolf Kurandt serves the prime rib at Camp Douglas Lodge’s Hunter’s Night. Bro. Kurandt hosted the event at his Target Bluff German Haus Restaurant in Camp Douglas.

Bro. Rich Wright, Master, asks for another ticket to be drawn.

Photos by Rich Rygh

Bro. Jim Hover, Northern Light Lodge No. 81, Mauston, (right) sells tickets on the mystery box to Bill Guess. In back Bro. Russ Hale, Northern Light Lodge, is the ticket seller on a rifle.

At table on left: Senior Warden Steve Walker and Master Rich Wright sell dinner tickets. On right: Karl Katuin, New Lisbon, purchases his lucky numbers from Past Master Leo Clark.

Emcee Robin Jon (Olson), Magnum Broadcasting, Tomah, calls a winning number.

Bro. Chuck Huffman holds up a game and trail camera, one of the items in the mystery box won by Robert Rease (left).


Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik Grants Dispensation; Airman First Class James Schuld becomes a 7th Generation Mason By Rich Rygh Airman First Class James C. Schuld became a Master Mason on Sept. 25 in Des Peres Lodge No. 85. He is a member of Theodore Roosevelt Lodge No. 322, where he received his EA and Fellowcraft Degrees on Sept. 24, but due to time constraints Des Peres Lodge conferred the MM degree. Bro. Schuld is on active duty and is home on leave for two weeks, after which he will be leaving for South Korea. He asked to become a Mason and Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik granted a special dispensation to set aside time requirements. The Grand Master said, “When a man is on active military duty and wants to become a Brother, we rise to the occasion and make it happen.” Bro. Schuld, a seventh generation Mason, is the son of Bro. Blake Siewert and grandson of Past Grand Master Dennis V. Siewert. Past Grand Master Siewert thanked Bro. Mark Rothe, Master of Des Peres Lodge for taking the time to confer the degree. He said 50 years ago today his father passed away and today his grandson becomes a Master Mason. Master Mark Rothe conferred the degree after a short business meeting. Past Grand Master Siewert gave the Historical Lecture and longtime family friend Past Master Mike Belongia presented the apron. Bro. Schuld’s father, Blake Siewert; uncle, Barry Siewert; his great uncle, David Siewert; and cousin, Jeremy Ebner were present for the degree. All are members of Theodore Roosevelt Lodge. Past Grand Master Siewert expressed his appreciation to Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik for granting the dispensation necessary for Bro. Schuld to receive his degrees while home on leave.

Bro. Mark Rothe presents the working tools.

Past Grand Master Dennis V. Siewert presents the Historical Lecture to his grandson.

Bro. James Schuld receives a hug from his father Bro. Blake Siewert after the degree.

Bro. Blake Siewert converses with his son Bro. James Schuld after the conferral of the Master Mason Degree.

Bro. Glenn Enderby presents the Charge.

Photos by Rich Rygh

Past Master Mike Belongia presents Bro. Schuld his apron. His father, Bro. Blake Siewert, holds the apron.

Bro. John Berggren, as King Solomon, addresses Bro. Schuld.

Wisconsin Masonic Calendar

continued from cover

JANUARY 2014

18-19 3rd Annual Secretaries Conference, Madison Concourse & Governors Club. Emphasis on new MORI features rolling out the first of the year.

FEBRUARY 2014

1 Ozaukee Lodge No. 17 Master’s Feast, 5:30 p.m., cost $25, Port Washington Masonic Center. For reservations contact District 10 Deputy David Tainter at [email protected] or 262-689-2848.


Appendant Body Heads Attend Unity Dinner Eleven appendant bodies were represented at the Masonic Unity Dinner in Green Lake on Sept. 28 . Front row: Kristi Schoville, Worthy Grand Matron, OES; Senior Grand Steward Robert C. Strader, Potentate of Tripoli Shriners; Rusty Mitchell, Grand Commandery, Wisconsin Grand Commandery; Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik; Beth Freuck, Grand Guardian Job’s Daughters; David Mahoney, Most Excellent High Priest, Grand Chapter Royal Arch Masons; Nancy Saggio, representing Amaranth, White Shrine and Social Order of the Beauceant; and Bonnie Kohn, Queen Daughters of the Nile, Ajeb Temple No. 156, Green Bay. Standing: Craig Wepprecht, Worthy Grand Patron, OES; Past Grand Master Allan E. Iding, Executive Officer, Wisconsin DeMolay; Larry Hanson, Zor Shrine Chief Rabban; Grand Secretary Michael A. DeWolf, PGM, Supreme Council Northern Masonic Jurisdiction Scottish Rite Deputy for Wisconsin; Steve Breunig, Associate Grand Guardian Job’s Daughters; Shane Beecraft, Sovereign Prince, Wisconsin Council Princes of Jerusalem, Valley of Milwaukee; and David Vold, Most Illustrious Grand Master, Grand Council Royal and Select Masters of Wisconsin. Photo by Rich Rygh


APRIL 2014


24

Waucoma Lodge No. 90, Oyster Stew Dinner, Cooksville Masonic Center

MAY 2014

17 Annual Walk-A-Thon for the Madison 32nd Degree Dyslexia Learning Center.

JUNE 2014


Sun Prairie Lodge Sesquicentennial

Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik reconstitutes the Lodge and reinstalls the officers according to ancient usage. From left: Junior Grand Warden Donald W. Hensiak, Master Darell Snyder, Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik, Deputy Grand Master William Beetcher, Senior Grand Warden Franklin J. Struble, Chaplain Dan Strausser and Grand Chaplain David R. Ritchie.

Junior Grand Steward Kenneth C. Gorgen and Junior Grand Deacon Scott E. Pedley uncover the Lodge.

See story on page 1 Master Darrel Snyder opens the Lodge.

Photos by Rich Rygh

Deputy Grand Master William Beetcher gives the Grand Orators remarks.

Job’s Daughters Bethel No. 44 performs the Living Cross at the closing.


153 Lodges Present 273 Scholarships Totaling $257,500 The Board of Directors of the Wisconsin Masonic Foundation, would like to thank our Wisconsin Lodges for participating in the 36th year of our Lodge Matching Grants Scholarship program. We are proud to report that 153 of the state’s 180 Lodges (85%) participated in this year’s Matching Grants Scholarship Program, awarding 273 scholarships to outstanding graduating high school seniors. These scholarships represent $257,550 in funding, which will assist our youth in reaching their educational goals. One hundred-eleven existing Perpetual Scholarships and some of our new Endowed Fund Scholarships, also made awards to students this year. As always, outstanding recipients were chosen for the awards, students who were involved in their high schools and communities, and who have set sound goals for their futures. These students will pursue degrees

in a variety of areas of study at, public, private and technical schools in Wisconsin and beyond. Thank you once again to the Lodges that award scholarships on an annual basis. You keep our program strong. The 2013 graduates are pursuing degrees in fields of study which include: orthodonture, biomedical science, radiology, agribusiness, athletic training, architecture, dental hygienist, biomedical engineering, sports medicine, Peace Corp, business administration, nursing, Hispanic health and human Services, accounting and many more. For more information on how your Lodge can participate in the scholarship programs of the Wisconsin Masonic Foundation, please contact Erika Miller, Development Officer, at: 262-9652200, ext. 831, or at: [email protected]. See more photos on page 13.

Tonya Dunbar Mineral Point HS Mineral Point Lodge No. 1

Emily Warne Iowa-Grant HS Mineral Point Lodge No. 1

Rylie Bausch Potosi High School Warren Lodge No. 4

Dawn Dines Potosi High School Warren Lodge No. 4

Madeline Helminiak Potosi High School Warren Lodge No. 4

Hannah Hutchcroft Potosi High School Warren Lodge No. 4

Justin Johnson Cassville High School Warren Lodge No. 4

Ryan Murray Lancaster High School Warren Lodge No. 4

Cody Feuchtenberger Benton High School Olive Branch Lodge No. 6

Lauren Malone Benton High School Olive Branch Lodge No. 6

Stephanie Check Wauzeka-Steuben H.S. Prairie du Chien Lodge No. 8

Mariah Everts Watertown H. S. Jefferson County Lodge No. 9

Olivia Hamann Watertown H. S. Jefferson County Lodge No. 9

Torri Jordan Fort Atkinson H. S. Jefferson County Lodge No. 9

Tyler Joseph Johnson Creek H. S. Jefferson County Lodge No. 9

Brooke Linse Jefferson H. S. Jefferson County Lodge No. 9

Ricki Smith Lake Mills H. S. Jefferson County Lodge No. 9

Morgan Kretlow Grafton High School Ozaukee Lodge No. 17

Valerie Kukla Cedarburg HS Ozaukee Lodge No. 17

Jessica Bell Monticello HS Smith Lodge No. 31

Ryan Erickson Monroe High School Smith Lodge No. 31

Katlyn L. Hansen Juda High School Smith Lodge No. 31

Alyssa Henning Monroe High School Smith Lodge No. 31

Jordyn Kubly Monticello HS Smith Lodge No. 31

Matthew Trotter Juda High School Smith Lodge No. 31

Lauren Angles Waukesha West HS Waukesha Lodge No. 37

Dylan Calabresa Berlin High School Berlin Lodge No. 38

Chantal Fay Berlin High School Berlin Lodge No. 38

Jenna Horn Berlin High School Longcroft Masonic Trust Berlin Lodge No. 38

Peter Schroeder Berlin High School Longcroft Masonic Trust Berlin Lodge No. 38

Caitlin Schubert Berlin High School Longcroft Masonic Trust Berlin Lodge No. 38

Kara Wesner Berlin High School Berlin Lodge No. 38

Chase Galle Waupun High School Waupun Lodge No. 48

Sara Schultz Beaver Dam HS Waupun Lodge No. 48

Katie Tjepkema Waupun High School Waupun Lodge No. 48

Ivy Sanderfoot Madison East H.S. Hiram No. 50

Thomas Dvorak Janesville Parker HS Janesville-Western Star No. 55

Stephanie Potter Janesville Craig HS Janesville-Western Star No. 55

Sydney Anderson Waterloo High School Waterloo Lodge No. 63

Zachary Gillis Marshall High School Waterloo Lodge No. 63

Kadi Devine Palmyra-Eagle H.S. Palmyra Lodge No. 68

Courtney Martens Palmyra-Eagle H.S. Palmyra Lodge No. 68

Jackie Anderson Reedsburg HS Reedsburg Lodge No. 79

Alyson Evans Reedsburg HS Reedsburg Lodge No. 79

Paul Koltz East De Pere HS Des Peres Lodge No. 85

Elissa Koele Prescott High School Northwestern Lodge No. 105

Kaycee Lubich Prescott High School Northwestern Lodge No. 105

Micha Bennett River Falls H.S. River Falls Lodge No. 109

Kayla Nguyen River Falls H.S. River Falls Lodge No. 109

Elizabeth Carroll Hartford Union HS Hartford Lodge No. 120

Aaron Pollasch Hartford Union HS Col. Gary L. Pike Sch. Hartford Lodge No. 120

Alissa Rauhn Slinger High School Reno Zancanella Mem. Hartford Lodge Sch. Hartford Lodge No. 120

Hunter Wentz Hartford Union HS Col. Gary L. Pike Sch. Hartford Lodge No. 120

Lauren Frawley Tomah High School Tomah Lodge No. 132

Marrissa Pieper Tomah High School Tomah Lodge No. 132

Ryan McGuine Oregon High School Oregon Lodge No. 151

Emily Eresh Random Lake HS Cassia Lodge No. 167

Megan Holec Plymouth High School Cassia Lodge No. 167

Jenna Mehre Elkhart LakeGlenbeulah H.S Cassia Lodge No. 167

Clayton Ottman Sheboygan Falls H.S Cassia Lodge No. 167

Jacob Tenpas Sheboygan Falls H.S Cassia Lodge No. 167

Nicholas Mack Poynette High School Poynette Lodge No. 173

Sierra Hawkins Chippewa Falls HS Chippewa Falls Lodge No. 176

Mikala Russell Winneconne HS Winneconne Lodge No. 186

Carly Volp Winneconne HS Winneconne Lodge No. 186

Brittany Detert Marion High School Clintonville Lodge No. 197

Hauuah Wood Onalaska High School Onalaska Lodge No. 214

Danielle Bennett Niagara High School Hiram D. Fisher Lodge No. 222

Janette Jast Prentice High School Phillips Lodge No. 225

Sara Polacek Phillips High School Phillips Lodge No. 225


Jody Liske Emma Pluim Slinger High School Hartford Union HS Reno Zancanella Mem. Reno Zancanella Mem. Hartford Lodge Sch. Hartford Lodge Sch. Hartford Lodge No. 120 Hartford Lodge No. 120

Bro. Richard Petarius, “The Village Cobbler” in Watertown By Jake Meister Watertown Daily Times

When Richard Petarius was working in sewer and water construction over 20 years ago he wasn’t sure what career he would hold next and for how long. But after a chance encounter with Waukesha cobbler Jim Mueller at a Harley-Davidson H.O.G. meeting, Petarius, 53, soon began a six-month training period in shoe repair that would result in a career that has spanned two decades. “I met him (Mueller) at the Harley-Davidson meeting and he told me that he repaired shoes and I thought it was neat,” Petarius said. “So I decided to stop by his shop to get a pair of my shoes fixed. That’s when he offered me the chance to be trained in shoe repair.” After his training, Mueller gave Petarius a salaried position and a work location in Oconomowoc. He said the job offer excited him and it was such a great opportunity that it would have been impossible to pass up. After working under Mueller for three years, Petarius took advantage of the chance to buy the Oconomowoc business. He said purchasing the business was an easy choice to make because he was enjoying what he was doing and he was still able to make ends meet with the job after his daughter was born. Petarius moved his business to Watertown in 2001 because it provided the closest place he could afford. He and his family eventually moved to Watertown and he relocated his business to its current 118 N. Third St. location in 2007. What Petarius enjoys most about his job and his current location is that he never knows what will come through the door as customers often bring other items in addition to shoes. Customers bring in things such as patches, belts, purses and letter jackets. They also bring in antique and sentimental items, such as family heirlooms, for upkeep. He said he has received a variety of exotic requests over the years, including making a knitting basket out of metal.

While the majority of Petarius’ business comes through repeat customers, he has found new customers have become more frequent as of late. He has also found a good portion of customers are either unemployed or underemployed. Petarius believes these customers continually come to him because it is often more prudent to have shoes repaired than buying a new pair in the present economy. While the economy has helped Petarius and other shoe cobblers in some ways, the rough economic times coupled with what Petarius describes as altered work ethic has resulted in less shoe cobblers throughout the area. The only shoe cobbler Petarius knows of besides himself in the area is around 35 miles away. That is a big change from when he first moved his business to Watertown. “When I came here in 2001 there were seven (shoe cobblers) in Madison,” Petarius said. “Now there’s only three.” “A lot of people want to make a lot of money really quick,” he added. “This is not a business to make a lot of money without gouging your customers. And nobody wants to get their hands dirty, they want to sit at a computer. That’s why manufacturing ain’t around anymore. I know a guy in Elm Grove who would like to retire someday but he cannot find anyone to take over. It’s a little bit of the tough work and the economy. Just starting up a business is a risk.” To provide more financial insurance for himself and his family, Petarius works part time every other weekend at Wis-Pak as a security guard. He says the extra work is especially helpful during the times business is slow. “You never know how much you will bring in financially,” Petarius said. “I might need a guard to help me carry all the money out one week and have nothing the next. The weather is also a big factor. The heat, the cold, the snow, vacations and festivals all play a huge role in business levels. It used to be August through December you would have to come in early, you’re so busy. Now it’s more

spread out year-round. People are changing their work habits and the economy has also been a factor.” Since starting his career as a shoe cobbler the production of shoes has changed just as much as the habits of the customer. “There are cheaper and more throwaway shoes than there were before which is not good,” Petarius said, adding there are unrepairable shoes. “I heard Red Wing makes eight soles and they can only fix three of them. About 20 years ago they only made a couple of different soles and they could fix them. Why are these companies making stuff that they can’t fix?” He also said, while shoes are becoming more expensive, the material used to make them is becoming cheaper. The fact that he has seen more and more poorly made shoes makes him appreciate well put together footwear even more. Some of the shoes Petarius enjoys working on the most include Allen Edmonds and Birkenstock. Common shoe repair practices have also changed over the years as more and more shoes are cemented together rather than stitched. Petarius said he still stitches shoes often which requires him to use some of his expensive equipment. One of Petarius’ more interesting pieces of equipment is a Landis stitcher. Petarius said the stitcher is valued at around $25,000 but he did not pay anywhere close to that amount. “The only thing that thing does is work on one type of shoe,” Petarius said. “And I might get three pairs of those shoes in a month and that’s probably stretching it.” When it comes to wearing shoes, Petarius said it simply comes down to what you like. Petarius, who doesn’t consider himself a shoe lover, enjoys wearing cowboy boots the most. In fact, the only time he doesn’t wear cowboy boots is when he is wearing sandals because of the heat. The shoes Petarius currently owns are two pairs of sandals, five or six pairs of cowboy boots and two pairs of hiking boots he purchased from St. Vincent de Paul.

Bro. Richard Petarius explains the unique craft of shoe cobbling during an interview with Family and Friends Magazine. Photo by Samantha Christian/ Watertown Daily Times

Petarius has a pair of stingray, shark and elephant boots. He said the stingrays are the toughest and most durable. He has also come across pairs of alligator, snake and ostrich boots through his repair shop. Petarius says his job can be very time consuming, tedious and chaotic. “You have to wait for one project to get done so you have to work on something else while you’re waiting,” Petarius said. “Soon after you are fixing multiple things at once. I can be fixing a zipper, fixing a coat and a vacuum cleaner and eating lunch. You do everything.” While some may find juggling various projects at once to be a daunting task, Petarius says he enjoys the constant work and the controlled chaos that comes with it which sometimes results in messy working conditions. “If I don’t have time to clean it

doesn’t have to be done,” Petarius said. “The scraps on the floor tell me I’m doing something. This isn’t a jewelry store, it doesn’t have to be to that quality.” At this point, Petarius has not had anyone come to him with an interest in a career as a shoe cobbler. While he would like to someday pass his business on to his two children, they have not shown any interest in it. Petarius, who describes himself as mechanically inclined, says he still has passed on his ability to work with his hands to his children. His daughter, 19, and his son, 16, both have demonstrated hands-on talent, as they have shown respectively in their art and musical endeavors.

Reprinted with permission of Family and Friends Magazine, a quarterly publication of the Watertown Daily times.

Lodges Present Scholarships continued from page 12

Taylor Scanlon Chequamegon HS Phillips Lodge No. 225

Tyler Marson Ellsworth High School Hancock Lodge No. 229

Rebecca Matzek Ellsworth High School Hancock Lodge No. 229

Benjamin Moldenhauer Ellsworth High School Hancock Lodge No. 229

Kelly Dionne Antigo High School Floyd Meyer Masonic Red Robin Scholarship

Erynn Hoff Cumberland H. S. Blue Hills Lodge No. 234

Brad Seboe Rice Lake High School Blue Hills Lodge No. 234

Stephen Mattox Wilmot Union H.S. Wilmot Lodge No. 241

Zachary Zenner Wilmot Union H.S. Wilson Runyard Scholarship Wilmot Lodge No. 241

Thomas Geiser Hayward High School Keystone Lodge No. 263

Robert Olson Hayward High School Keystone Lodge No. 263

Daniel Rattunde Necedah High School Camp Douglas No. 272

Elizabeth Wagenson Tomah High School Camp Douglas No. 272

Riley Mayer Union Grove HS Union Grove Lodge No. 288

Ryan Rebernick Union Grove HS Union Grove Lodge No. 288

Lauren Hoefgen Kettle Moraine H.S. Dousman Lodge No. 315

Tyler Holman Kettle Moraine H.S. Dousman Lodge No. 315

Veronica Plum Kettle Moraine H.S. Dousman Lodge No. 315

Kole Hinker Greenwood H.S. Owen Lodge No. 317

Haley Ovyn Owen-Withee H.S. Owen Lodge No. 317

Grand Master’s Appeal

Meredith Benson Lakeland High School Island City Lodge No. 330

Miles Danielson Lakeland Union H.S. Island City Lodge No. 330

Allie Andres Appleton East HS Appleton Lodge No. 349

Courtney Hummel Kaukauna High School Appleton Lodge No. 349

Samantha Molina West Allis Central HS Day Lite Lodge No. 358

Rebecca Schroeder Jay Tienor Gillett HS – Gillette Suring HS – Gillett Lodge No. 344 Ansorge Lodge No. 344 ScholarFamily Schol., Masonship, MasonWoods Woods Lodge No. 368 Lodge No. 368

Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik has chosen our Masonic Youth Fund this year for his Grand Master’s Appeal. Support this important cause and the future of Freemasonry in Wisconsin. Donations can be made at anytime, using the coupon at the bottom of page 4. Checks should be made payable to Wisconsin Masonic Foundation Youth Fund and can be forwarded to Wisconsin Masonic Charities at 36275 Sunset Drive, Dousman, WI 53118


Many Improvements at Tomah VA Medical Center By Rich Rygh The Tomah VA Medical Center is a 266 bed facility serving 58,000 plus veterans in a 15 county service area. It is located on a 171 acre campus which began as an Indian school in 1891 and in 1943 it became a radio school for the Department of Defense. The property was transferred to the VA in 1945 and opened as a Neuropsychiatric Hospital in 1946. Today the hospital has 1,100 employees, a 217 inpatient average and serves over 238,000 outpatient visits per year, with an annual budget of $150 million. Nationally the Veterans Health

Tomah VA Medical Director Mario DeSanctus explains the many new improvements to the facility.

Administration served 6.3 million patients with 83.6 million outpatients visits in 2012. Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik, his Lady Laura; Deputy Grand Master William Beetcher, his Lady Pat; MSA Coordinator Roger L. Magoon and a group of Masons toured the facility on Oct. 11. The tour was arranged by Masonic Service Association Representative Jesse Long. Director Mario DeSanctis gave the group an update on the hospital and the many changes and improvements in recent years. Two new Green Houses are being built. Green Houses are independent living facilities which will each house 10 very modern independent living facilities. The Green Houses are expected to open in the spring. The a new inner courtyard is now complete and improves the patients quality of life and also serves their families. Two floors have been renovated in building 401 for long term care and hospice care. An addition is being added to the main patient facility which is expected to open in Oct. 2014. The hospital is entering into a new lease expansion in La Crosse and adding more speciality care. This facility is expected to open in Sept. 2014 Volunteer Services Coordinator Laura Bishop conducted the tour through the hospital. The new hospice and palliative care unit was one of the highlights of the tour. Michelle Keuhl, Hos-

Laura Bishop points out an area along the courtyard used for therapy to Pat and Deputy Grand Master William Beetcher.

Michelle Keuhl, Hospice Palliative Care Coordinator explains the many features in one of the rooms in the new hospice center to (from left): Deputy Grand Master William Beetcher, Pat Beecher, Laura Slavik, Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik and Bro. Jerry Potter. pice Palliative Care Coordinator, conducted the tour through the unit. The unit is a new 20 bed facility with all private rooms. There is a kitchen area available to veterans and their families. The day room is bright with many windows, big screen TV and a fireplace. The rooms look more like high end hotel rooms than hospital rooms. Equipment that is not in use is hidden and they have the very latest in technology allowing all care to be done in the room without the need for med carts. Medications are in the room in locked drawers. Lifts are mounted from the ceiling. Kuehl explained the difference between palliative care and hospice. Hospice is a small piece of palliative care. Palliative care assists primary care providers in managing pain and other symptoms to promote quality of life. Hospice is a palliative care for those with life expectancy of six months or less. The spa area is complete with heated towels. The nurse’s name tags automatically shut of call lights when a nurse enters a room. The call light system shows up on a small computer screen in the room with all the information and the whereabouts of all staff members should more assistance be needed. There are special rooms for friends or family members need-

MSA Coordinator Roger L. Magoon, PGM, urges Brethren to come and take a look at the hospital and said you will want to get involved and volunteer. Photos by Rich Rygh ing to stay when a veteran’s condition deteriorates. Keuhl explained the “No Veteran Dies Alone Program” is a special program for those nearing the end with no family or friends available. There are volunteers who will come in and stay with the veteran until the end. She said the other program they utilize is the Angels Among Us which provides funds for a veteran to fulfill their dying wish, which may be something as simple as a steak dinner.

Skype is often set up in the rooms for veterans with family living far away. This allowed one veteran to see his newborn grandson before he passed. Kuehl said she always says, “Even though we do hospice care I always tell everyone it is a smile on their face, bright lights and bright colors, it doesn’t have to be depressing.” Laura Bishop took the group out to see the new center courtyard which was recently finished. There is a pathway all around it, gazebos, a memory garden a labyrinth will be added next spring. There is a huge deck with outdoor seating off the dining room which faces the courtyard. The Ability Gym, completed last year features the latest in equipment, including a rubberized floor and even a Wii used for exercise. The room is specially designed to provide therapy and actual living situations. An entrance to the courtyard allows those learning to use prosthetics and wheelchairs experience sand, grass and gravel. The tour even included a tour See Tomah VA on page 15.

LIKE the

Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of WI on Facebook Visit often for highlights and news.


Tomah VA

Geneva Lodge Assists Lakeland Animal Shelter

From page 14

Last May, Brother Frank Chesen proposed a partnership between the Modern Woodman of America and Geneva Lodge to benefit Lakeland Animal Shelter. The ‘we never did that before’ bunch went into overdrive when it was learned that over the summer, we would be selling calendars. It was decided that we would go through with Bro. Chesen’s idea. Not only did he inspire the Lodge but also his church, Trinity Lutheran of Pell Lake. They held a blessing of the animals. Bro. Chesen commented all the animals were well behaved! The partnership was a success. One thousand calendars were sold and the result of a successful summer of brotherhood was culminated at a breakfast where the check was presented.

MSA Representative Jesse Long explains how rewarding it is to volunteer in a VA medical facility. of the bowling alley which is popular among many of the veterans. After the tour the group traveled to the Tomah Masonic Center for a dinner prepared by the Lemonwier Chapter No. 158 OES of Mauston. Bro. Jesse Long, MSA Representative introduced Laura Bishop, Volunteer Services Director for the Tomah Medical Center. She expressed her appreciation to all the MSA Volunteers for all they do at the hospital and for donating over $5,000 in monetary donations and goods. She also expressed appreciation for their participation in the “No Veterans Die Alone Program”. Medical Center Director Mario DeSanctis said there are over 400 volunteers at the hospital and they are a very important part of hospital operations and thanked the MSA Volunteers for their part in helping the veterans. MSA Coordinator Roger L. Magoon stated for anyone who has not visited the VA Center in Tomah you are missing a great deal. He thanked Bro. Jesse Long for all his work with the volunteers and Bros. Robert Beck and Martin Callaway for their many hours of service. Volunteers get involved in hospice program, voluntary services, transportation, golf course and chapel escorts. He urged Brethren to come and take a look at the hospital and said you will want to get involved and volunteer. PGM Magoon introduced Deputy Grand Master William Beetcher and his lady Pat and Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik and his Lady Laura. Grand Master Slavik asked all the volunteers to stand and receive a round of applause and also all of the veterans. He said this year he is asking the Brothers to get back to their core tenets, Friendship, Morality and Brotherly Love. He explained that the volunteers not only at the VA but in other areas of the community really live out this mission, they are extending the hand of friendship to everyone around them. They are helping in good times and bad and making this a better life. He said is very proud of the MSA Volunteers. In closing Bro. Long expressed how rewarding an experience volunteering at the VA has been for him.

Cindy Wrobel, 16 year veteran Humane Officer for Lakeland Animal Shelter, Elkhorn, receives a check for $5000 from Junior Warden Frank Chesen (left) and Master Keith Redell of Geneva Lodge No. 44. Submitted by Bro. Bob Grohall

New Multiple-Letter Ciphers

Contact Cheryl Martin [email protected] 262-965-2200 Ext. 800

Coming Home

Past Grand Master Stanley R. Jagow and his wife Mary Ann. He served the Masons of Wisconsin as Grand Master in 1994-1995. Photo by Josh Van Den Berg By Josh Van Den Berg Home. It’s a powerful word. It’s a place where we create memories; where we can feel safe. When the time came for Past Grand Master Stanley Jagow and his wife Mary Ann Jagow to make a change there was no doubt that they would return home to Three Pillars. “I always knew we were coming back here.” Mary Ann noted. There is a strong fraternal connection for the Jagows and it is that love for the Fraternity that led them back to Three Pillars in

December of 2012. PGM Stan’s grandfather, father, son, and grandson are all Masons. Mary Ann’s mother lived at Three Pillars for nearly five years and both her father and grandfather worked for Bro. Van Brunt. Mary Ann was also Director of Human Resources at Three Pillars from 1990-1997. The Jagows had retired and were enjoying the warmer weather in Arkansas, which is centrally located to their four children, ten grandchildren, and 1 great grandchild, when they de-

Bro. Stan enjoys an afternoon on the water with his boat “Skjonhed XII”. Submitted Photo

cided last year to return to Wisconsin for Bro. Stan’s health. They haven’t looked back. “I feel very, very comfortable— if I lost Stan I’d be safe. . .,” Mary Ann pointed out. Bro. Stan simply stated that, “God puts you where he needs you and he’s put us here.” There were some challenges with the transition. Bro. Stan is an avid boater and he didn’t bring his boat to Three Pillars when they moved. Mary Ann

knew how important boating was to Stan, “I’ve been married to Stan for 52 years and he’s never been without a boat.” So she and the kids decided that Stan was going to get a boat, but on a smaller scale. On warmer days you can find Stan driving his boat around the pond outside their home on the Three Pillars’ Campus. Stop in to see them; they would love to show you around—he may even let you drive his boat.

The

Wisconsin Masonic Handbook is available online at www.wisc-freemasonry.org


Meeting

Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik hosts the Unity Dinner. Grand Lodges. Leadership programs were a key topic among the Grand Lodges. Handling background checks were also discussed. Many Grand Lodges are calling it electronic verification. Our Grand Lodge will host the 2014 conference in August of next year. Past Grand Master Dennis V. Siewert reported on his grandson Airman First Class James C. Schuld’s Masonic Degrees. His grandson was going to be home on leave for 15 days and informed his father, Bro. Blake Siewert he wanted to become a Mason. PGM Siewert contacted Grand Master

from page 1 Slavik and asked if Roosevelt Lodge requested a dispensation to wave the time for balloting and between degrees would he sign it. The Grand Master said he would and Bro. Schuld received his degrees. He must still meet proficiency in the degrees. Grand Master Slavik stressed we do support our military and if a man on active duty wants to become a Mason, we will make it happen. Senior Grand Warden Franklin J. Struble reported he sent out a letter to the Senior and Junior Wardens urging them to get involved in programming for lodge meetings. The Grand Master stressed we need to give our Brothers a reason to come to lodge. He said he includes programming ideas at the beginning of his message each month. Senior Grand Warden Struble said Chapter 5 of the Masonic Handbook lists a huge number of activity ideas. Senior Grand Deacon L. Arby Humphrey spoke on the Valley of Eau Claire sponsored Leadership and Planning Workshop. The workshop includes Senior and Junior Wardens and Senior Deacons. This event helps the incoming Masters plan and fill out their calendar for their year. Since this program was introduced there has been an increase in the Lodge Excellence Awards for lodges participating. This year’s workshop will be held on Nov. 16. More information is available at http://scot tishrite-ec.org/2013-lodge-leadership-workshop. The Grand Master said he would like to see this ex-

Junior Grand Warden Donald W. Hensiak introduces the heads of the appendant bodies at the Unity Dinner.

Traveler, OccuPaws guide dog in training, attended the Unity Dinner with the Wisconsin Grand Chapter Order of Eastern Star.

Deputy Grand Master William Beetcher reports on attending the Midwest Conference of Grand Lodges. Amy covered Twitter Accounts said if you want to see great expanded to the other Scottish Rite and how they can be used for pro- amples go to a degree competiValleys covering the entire state. Grand Secretary Michael A. De- moting events. It can also be used tion, these Bros. take real pride in their work. Wolf gave an update on MORI. for following news events. Saturday evening the Grand The Grand Master also said to Many new advances will be rolled out at the Secretaries Conference be very careful on what you post. Lodge hosted a Unity Dinner for on January 18-19, 2014. There He read a policy from the Massa- all appendant bodies. Junior will be a full day of MORI training. chusetts Grand Lodge on proper Grand Deacon Donald W. HenThere is a new financial and busi- social media conduct. Discussion siak introduced representatives ness package written into MORI. was held on the need for recom- from eleven appendant bodies Some of the new advances are a mended guidelines to be adopted and each rep gave a short talk on bar code on your dues card which for Wisconsin and sent out to the their organization. Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik will be scanned for registration at lodges. Grand Master Slavik discussed thanked everyone for their attenthe Annual Communication, more databases will be available in the importance of using Form 81 dance and stressed the imporMORI linked into the Grand regarding non payment of dues tance in investing in our youth. He Lodge website for meeting nights, and getting feedback from the introduced the Grand Lodge Offitimes, lodge locators, etc. Perma- Brethren at District Meetings. He cers and their ladies. Sunday morning began with a nent dues cards are being looked also wants feedback from the lodges on Grand Lodge handling church service by Grand Chaplain into for perpetual members. David R. Ritchie. Amy Slavik gave a talk on social the background checks. The staff meeting reconvened The Grand Secretary DeWolf media including the Grand Lodge Facebook page. She provided a said one of the things he forgot to after the service. The Grand Master spoke on the handout and ran through how to mention earlier is with the roll out set up a Facebook page for those of the new MORI is every Lodge importance of a Grand Lodge Ofwithout one. She also answered will have a website. The lodges will ficer presenting service awards to security questions, sharing infor- not have to maintain the website our Brethren. He said these are mation and how to manage if they do not wish to do so, it will important milestones in a friends. Amy explained how the get the information from MORI, Brother’s life and should be recogTimeline works and also sug- which will cover the address, the nized. District Deputy activity reports gested changing your password officers, the meeting nights and time. That will be the standard were given along with reports on a regular basis. Junior Grand Deacon Scott E. site. Lodges that wish to have an form the Saturday afternoon Pedley reminded the Brethren that enhanced site can pay a small fee breakout sessions. In closing Grand Master Slavik once something is posted it is out per year to do that. This will be inthere forever. Amy said be very troduced at the Secretaries Con- extended his appreciation to everyone for their attendance and careful about what you post. Many ference. Grand Lecturer Davey L. White reminded the Officers to encouremployers search Facebook and Twitter for background on a po- Jr. conducted a mini school of in- age the Brothers to follow the struction regarding the closing at code. It was written by our Bros. tential employee. Senior Grand Deacon L. Arby the Annual Communication and for everyone’s benefit. He said, “If Humphrey also stated if you brand presenting the due guard and sign we follow the code and our obliyourself as Mason you should act properly. He also went over gations, everything will fall into proper handling of the rod and place.” like a Mason.

Enjoying fellowship at the Unity Dinner, (clockwise from left) Grand Tiler Raymond E. Mielke; Richard Moen, Chapter Grand Scribe; David Mahoney, Grand High Priest; Michael Mudray, Chapter Grand Chaplain; Rusty Mitchell, Right Eminent Commander; District 6 Deputy A. Christopher Gans; Pam Gans; and Sharon Mielke.


Halloween Haunted Woods on the

Three Pillars Campus

It was a great evening of fun for all ages at the 21st Annual Halloween Haunted Woods at Three Pillars Senior Living Communities in Dousman on Oct. 18. Three Pillars has hosted over 20,000 little ghosts and goblins over the last 21 years. Over one million pieces of candy have been given out at this free community trick-or-treat event.

Photos by Rich Rygh

See more photos on page 22


Appleton

Stated Communications

Waverly Lodge No. 51 315 S. Bluemound Dr. • 920-738-9220 1st & 3rd Tues., 7 p.m., 4th Tues. 6:30 p.m. Education, www.waverly51.org

Argyle

for the Mason Traveling in Wisconsin Dodgeville

Dodgeville Lodge No. 119 Argyle Lodge No. 178 104 E. Milwaukee St. • 608-523-4714 200 W. Chapel St. • 608-574-8505 Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Meet 2nd Thursday, 7:30 p.m. Meets All Year Meets All Year

Baldwin

Dousman

Dousman Lodge No. 315 Collins-Spring Valley Lodge 192 214 N. Main St. • 414-429-5981 790 Main St. • 715-928-0001 (Sec) Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. 3rd Tuesday only July & August Dark June, July & August

Barneveld

Dousman

Glen L. Humphrey Lodge No. 364 Barneveld Lodge No. 319 108 S. Jones St. • 608-445-0445 (Sec) 375 State Rd. 67 • 262-965-7390 Meet 2nd Tuesday, 9:30 a.m. Meet 2nd Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. Dark in June Dark July & August

Beaver Dam

Durand

Hustisford

Manawa

Milwaukee

Neosho-Mayville-Horicon No. 108 128 E. Anthony St., Hustisford 920-212-0542 • 1st & 3rd Tues. 7:00 Dark July & August

Manawa Lodge No. 82 520 N. Bridge St. • 920-596-2476 Meet 2nd & 4th Mon., Dinner 6 p.m. Meeting 7 p.m., Dark July & Aug.

Nathan Hale Lodge No. 350 790 N. Van Buren • 414-522-9872 Meet 1st & 3rd Thursday, 7 p.m. Meets All Year

Hudson

Manitowoc

Mineral Point

St. Croix Lodge No. 56 209 Locust Street • 651-210-7697 Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Manitowoc Lodge No. 65 810 Chicago St. • 920-793-3473 (Sec) Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Mineral Point Lodge No. 1 304 High St. • 608-604-7510 Call for meeting nights Dark 3rd Mon. July-Sept. & Oct.- Dec.

Iron River

Marinette

Minocqua

Ancient Landmark No. 210 7575 West Mill St. • 715-685-4426 1st Wed., 7 p.m., Meets All Year [email protected]

Marinette Lodge No. 182 1610 Main St. • 715-735-3515 Meet 1st Thursday, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Island City Lodge No. 330 7529 Hwy 51 South • 715-277-2810 (Sec.) • Meet 1st Wednesday, 10 a.m. Meets All Year

Iron River

Marshfield

Mondovi Buffalo River Lodge No. 252 245 S. Franklin • 715-797-3261 (Sec) Meet 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Monroe

Dodge County Lodge No. 72 1212 DeClark St • 920-885-2628 Meet 3rd Monday, Dinner at 6 p.m. Meeting at 7 p.m., Meets All Year

Durand-Pepin Lodge No. 149 203 W. Main St. • 715-672-8278 (Sec) Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Barnes Lodge No. 365 7575 West Mill St. • 715-372-5425 Meet 2nd Tues. 7:00 p.m. Dark January & February

Marshfield Lodge No. 224 402 W. 4th St. • 715-384-8646 Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Meets All Year

Beloit

Eagle River

Janesville

Mauston

Morning Star Lodge No. 10 229 W. Grand Ave. • 608-362-0422 Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m. Meets All Year

Eagle River Lodge No. 248 610 E. Division • 715-891-3116 Meet 2nd Tuesday, 7 p.m. Meets All Year

Black Earth

Eau Claire

Crescent Valley Lodge No. 97 1020 Mills St. • 608-795-4484 (Sec) Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7 p.m. Dark July & August

Black River Falls Black River Lodge No. 74 314 Main Street • 715-896-0329 Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Bloomer Bloomer Lodge No. 281 2122 16th Ave. • 715-568-5152 Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Dark January & February

Northern Light Lodge No. 81 Janesville-Western Star No. 55 Smith Lodge No. 31 211 E. State St. • 608-548-4156 1613-1/2 Tenth St. • 608-558-9987 (Sec) 2322 E. Milwaukee St. • 608-752-3098 Meet 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7:30 p.m. Meet 1st Thurs., Mauston, 3rd Thurs. Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. rotates, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August Dark 3rd Thurs. June & July & August Meets All Year

Jefferson

Jefferson County Lodge No. 9 Eau Claire Lodge No. 112 616 Graham Ave. • 715-530-4469 (Sec.) 617 Masonic Blvd. • 920-674-6715 715-579-4439 (Master) Meet 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7:00 p.m. 2nd & 4th Tues., 7:30 p.m., All Year Meets All Year

Eau Claire

Kenosha

Medford

Mosinee

Medford Lodge No. 217 150 S. Seventh St. • 715-748-6909 Meet 2nd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark January & February

Mosinee Lodge No. 318 607 13th St. • 715-693-2007 Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7 p.m. Dark June July & August

Menomonee Falls

Mukwonago

Lincoln Lodge No. 183 Kenosha Lodge No. 47 George B. Wheeler Lodge No. 351 616 Graham Ave. • 715-832-8738 4320 Washington Rd. • 262-287-9878 N98 W16856 Appleton Ave.• www.lin colnlodge.org • [email protected] Meet 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7 p.m. 2nd Tues., 7 p.m. Meets All Year Dark July & August Meets All Year

Eau Claire

Kenosha

Sunrise Lodge No. 359 Sanctuary Lodge No. 347 616 Graham Ave. • 715-318-1214 4320 Washington Rd. • 262-694-7817 Meet 2nd & 4th Mondays, 9:30 a.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, dinner 6 p.m., meeting at 7 p.m. Dark July & Aug Dark July & August

Laflin-St. James Lodge No. 247 206 S. Main St. • 262-642-9717 Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7:00 p.m. Dark July & August

Menomonie

Neenah

Menomonie Lodge No. 164 N5729 - 410th St. • 715-235-2667 Meet 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Appleton Lodge No. 349 241 E. Wisconsin Ave. • 920-731-7355 Meet 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Dark July & August

Bristol

Edgerton

Kenosha

Mercer

Neenah/Menasha

Washburn Lodge No. 145 8102 - 199th Ave.• 262-631-9616 Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. 2nd Thurs. only Jan. & Feb.

Fulton Lodge No. 69 312 W. Fulton St.• 608-884-4250 Meets 1st Wednesday, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Unity Lodge No. 367 4320 Washington Rd. • 262-657-5575 Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7 p.m. Dark 3rd Thurs., July & August

Hurley Lodge No. 237 5189 N. Harper • 715-904-0400 Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark December thru March

Twin Cities Lodge No. 61 241 E. Wisconsin Ave. • 920-722-3611 Meets 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7 p.m. Dark June - Aug. Open after Labor Day

Brookfield

Ellsworth

McKinley Lodge No. 307 Hancock Lodge No. 229 4550 N. Pilgrim Rd. • 262-781-9907 400 High Point Dr. • 715-273-4339 Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August Dark in July

Burlington

Florence

Burlington Lodge No. 28 Hiram D. Fisher Lodge No. 222 325 N. Kane St. 5143 N. Montogomery Lake Rd.. Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. 715-696-6308 Meet 2nd Wed., Dark July & August 6:30 p.m. Meets All Year

Cambridge

Franklin

South Shore Lodge No. 3 Social Lodge No. 245 9023 S. 27th St. • 414-840-3393 105 S. Spring St. • 608-423-7081 Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7:30 pm Dark July & August www.social245.org • Meets All Year

Camp Douglas

Frederic

Landmark Lodge No. 244 Camp Douglas Lodge No. 272 211 Main St. • 608-427-6542 (Sec) 109 United Way • 715-472-4174 (Sec). Meet 2nd Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Meets All Year Meets All Year

Cecil

Friendship

Quincy Lodge No. 71 Mason-Woods Lodge No. 368 N6446 Emery Ansorge Rd • 715-584- 210 Main St. • 608-853-1768 (Sec) Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7 p.m. 8187 (Sec) • 3rd Tues., 10 a.m. Dark July & August Dark January & February

Chetek

Galesville

La Crosse

Merrill

New Diggings

La Crosse Masonic Lodge No. 190 118 8th Street So. • 608-782-1616 Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Meets All Year

Virginia Falls Lodge No. 226 916½ E. Main St. • 715-675-3440 Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7:00 p.m. Dark June, July & August

Olive Branch Lodge No. 6 26750 Cty. Rd. W • 608-965-3122 (Sec) Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark January & February

Ladysmith

Merrillan

New Glarus

Mystic Tie Lodge No. 280 705 E. 3rd St. N. • 715-532-7696 (Sec) Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Meets All Year

Merrillan Lodge No. 279 105 S. Main Street • 715-333-5643 (Sec) Meet 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7 p.m. Dark January, February & March

New Glarus Lodge No. 310 207 6th Avenue • 608-527-2583 (Sec) Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark June, July & August

Lake Geneva

Middleton

New Richmond

Geneva Lodge No. 44 335 S. Lake Shore Dr. • 262-949-8523 Meet 2nd Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Middleton-Ionic Lodge No. 180 7409 Franklin Ave. • www.midddle tonionic.org 1st & 3rd Tues., 7:30 p.m. Dark 3rd Tues., July & August

New Richmond Lodge No. 195 119 E. 2nd St. • 715-246-2144 Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Dark June, July & August

Linden

Milton

Linden Lodge No. 206 618 Main St. • 608-623-2143 (Sec) Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 8 p.m. Dark July & August

Milton Lodge No. 161 508 Vernal Avenue • 608-931-4656 Meets 4th Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. Meets All Year

Chippewa Falls

Green Bay

Crivitz

Green Bay

Tri-County Daylite Lodge No. 218 N.E.W. Daylite Lodge No. 360 918 Louisa St. • Sec. 715-927-8585 525 N. Taylor St. • 920-371-8441 Meet 2nd Thursday, 10 a.m. Meet 2nd Wednesday 10:00 a.m. Dark July & August Meets All Year

Darlington Evening Star Lodge No. 64 433 Wells St. • 608-776-4213 (Sec) Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Meets All Year

Green Bay

Platteville Melody Lodge No. 2 783 Enterprise Drive • 608-732-8625 Meet 1st Tuesday, 7:00 p.m. Meets All Year

Plymouth Cassia Lodge No. 167 441 Smith St. • 920-892-6336 Meet 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7:00 p.m. Dark July & August

Portage Fort Winnebago Lodge No. 33 111 W. Conant Street • 608-742-6468 Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays Dark January & February

Port Washington Ozaukee Lodge No. 17 504 W. Grand Ave. • 262-284-9978 Meet 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7:30 p.m. Meets All Year

Potosi Warren Lodge No. 4 112 S. Main St. • 608-763-2221 (Sec) Meets 1st Thursday, 7:30 p.m. Meets All Year

Poynette Poynette Lodge No. 173 Poynette City Hall, 106 Main, Call for time • 608-635-4503 Meets 1st Wednesday Dark July & August

Prairie du Chien Prairie du Chien Lodge No. 8 105 1/2 E. Blackhawk Avenue 608-326-4640 (Sec) • Meet 1st & 3rd Wed., 7:30 p.m. • Meets All Year

Prescott Northwestern Lodge No. 105 132 N. Court St. • 715-262-5015 (Sec) Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Dark July & August

Racine Racine-Belle City Lodge No. 18 1012 Main St. • 262-633-6658 Meets 1st Tuesday, 7 p.m. Meets All Year

Reedsburg Reedsburg Lodge No. 79 213 E. Main St. • 608-415-2325 Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark January & February

Rhinelander Rhinelander Lodge No. 242 23 E. Davenport St. • 715-362-3080 Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark January & February

Rice Lake Blue Hills Lodge No. 234 225 W. South St. • 715-434-7199 Meet 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7:00 p.m. Meets All Year

Richland Center

Richland Lodge No. 66 Neosho-Mayville-Horicon No. 108 315 E. Anthony St., Hustisford • 262-818- 290 W. Union St. • 608-538-3173 (Sec) Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7 p.m. 1374, 1st & 3rd Tues, 7:00 p.m. Meets All Year Dark July & August

Milwaukee

Oconto

Ripon

Franklin Lodge No. 16 227 S. Oak St. • 608-583-4303 (Sec) Meet 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 8 p.m. Meets All Year

Damascus Lodge No. 290 1235 E. Howard Ave. • 262-853-5631 (Sec) • Meet 2nd & 4th Tues., Dinner 6 p.m., Lodge at 7 • Dark July & August

Pine Lodge No. 188 513 Superior Ave. • 920-835-3366 Meet 2nd Wednesday, 7:30 p.m. Dark December & January

Prairie View Lodge No. 95 W14188 County Rd. KK. • 920-291-8800 Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7:00 p.m. Dark 4th Tues. Nov. & Dec.

Madison

Milwaukee

Lone Rock

Day-lite Lodge No. 358 Decora Lodge No. 177 Benjamin Franklin Lodge No. 83 Chetek Lodge No. 277 7515 W. National Ave. • 414-257-9450 231 S. Main St. • 608-539-5230 Visitors call ahead 608-438-1648 216 Morrison St. • 715-924-4245 (Sec) Meet 1st & 3rd Mondays Meets 1st & 3rd Mondays, 8 p.m. Weds., stated 2nd, guest/brother meet 4th. Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7 p.m. Dark July & August Dark July & August & 1st Mon. Sept. www.franklin83.org • Dark July & August Dark June, July & August

Des Peres Lodge No. 85 Chippewa Falls Lodge No. 176 525 N. Taylor • 920-865-7637 650 Bridgewater Ave. • 715-723-6341 Meet 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August Dark July & August

Neosho

Phillips Phillips Lodge No. 225 137 N. Lake Ave. • 715-339-3785 Meet 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7:30 p.m. Dark June, July & August

Oconto Falls

River Falls

Oconto Falls Lodge No. 293 170 N. Washington St. • 920-373-5747 Meet 1st Mon., Sept. 2nd Mon., 7 p.m. Meets All Year

River Falls Lodge No. 109 122 E. Walnut St. • 715-425-6760 (Sec.) Meet 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Madison

Milwaukee

Omro

Shawano

Doric Lodge No. 356 85 S. Stoughton Rd. • 608-839-4861 (Sec) • Meet 1st & 3rd Tues., 7 p.m. Meets All Year

Freemasons Lodge No. 363 790 N. Van Buren St. • 414-659-5205 1st Wed., 5:30 p.m. Degrees 4th Wed., 5:30 p.m. Meets All Year

Omro Lodge No. 168 160 E. Main Street • 920-685-2798 Meet 2nd Monday, 7:00 p.m. Meets All Year

Shawano Lodge No. 170 2324 E. Richmond St.• 715-526-3920 Meets 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7 p.m. Dark January & February

Milwaukee

Onalaska

Sheboygan

Four Lakes Daylite Lodge No. 362 301 Wisconsin Ave. • 608-831-8947 Meets 1st Mon. - 2nd Mon. if 1st is holiday wknd., 10 a.m. Meets All Year

Lafayette Lodge No. 265 790 N. Van Buren St. • 414-541-7139 Meets 2nd Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Onalaska Lodge No. 214 330 Main Street • 608-386-8230 (Sec) Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. 2nd Thursday only, July & August

Sheboygan Lodge No. 11 411 St. Clair Ave. • 920-457-3111 Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 6:00 p.m. Meets All Year

Madison

Milwaukee

Madison

Lake Lodge No. 189 Theodore Roosevelt Lodge 322 Hiram Lodge No. 50 525 N. Taylor St. • 920-490-9777 310 Wisconsin Ave. • 608-209-4312 1235 E. Howard Ave. • 414-744-4609 Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. Meet 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7:30 p.m Meets All Year Dark July & Aug., www.roosevelt322.com Dark 1st Mondays, July thru September

Delavan

Hartford

Madison

Milwaukee

Southern Lakes Lodge No. 12 1007 S. 2nd St., 7 p.m. • 262-728-1630 Meet 2nd & 4th Mon. Jan.-June & Sept.Nov., 4th Mon. July-Aug. 1st Mon. Dec.

Hartford Lodge No. 120 147 N. Rural St. • 414-397-8232 Meet 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7 p.m. Meets All Year

Madison Lodge No. 5 301 Wisconsin Ave. • 608-957-3068 Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark 1st Thursday July & August

Milwaukee-Harmony No. 261 4315 N. 92nd St. • 414-961-1133 1st & 3rd Tues. 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Oregon

Shell Lake

Oregon Lodge No. 151 201 Park St. • 608-444-0074 (Sec) Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Shell Lake /Spooner Lodge No. 221 28 Doboy Drive • 715-468-4424 (Sec) Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7:00 p.m. July & August

Oshkosh

Shullsburg

Amicitia Lodge No. 25 Oshkosh Lodge No. 27 204 Washington Ave. • 920-385-1034 127½ W. Water St. • 608-963-5961 (Sec) Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Meets All Year Dark July & August

Lodge Listings are continued on page 19

PAGE 18 - WISCONSIN MASONIC JOURNAL - SEPTEMBER 2013

News Events from the Lodges

Oregon Lodge honors Past Masters Oregon Lodge No. 151 recognized their past Masters at a special dinner on Oct. 17. The Masters honored represented over 37 years of leadership. Front row (from left): James Hannem, Donald Haugen, Wayne Steinhorst, Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik, Raymond Lawry, James Goldsmith and Marvin Severson. Second row: Kenneth Haugen, Bill Outhouse, Al Bettehausen, Richard Richardson, Edward Showers, Dennis Erfurth and District 9 Deputy Paul Tourville. Back row: Richard Rygh, Martin Long, David Huston and District 7 Deputy Craig Froelich. Photo by Bro. Brad Staley, Junior Warden

Lodge Leadership and Planning Workshop at Eau Claire Masonic Center on Nov. 16 The Valley of Eau Claire Scottish Rite has coordinated with the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin to host a Lodge Leadership and Planning Workshop for incoming Masters and Wardens of the Lodges in Western Wisconsin on Saturday, November 16 at 9:30 a.m. at the Eau Claire Masonic Center. All 2014 Masters and Wardens should attend this Workshop; we hope to see your entire senior leadership team.

Workshop facilitators are all successful Past Masters and Grand Lodge Officers and offer practical working sessions where you will be assisted in planning your Masonic year. This year participants will learn about Lodge leadership, best practices, planning and programming, calendaring, communications, finance and the Lodge Excellence Award. Registration Forms were mailed to all Lodges or you can also reg-

ister now on line at the following link:http://scottishriteec.org/2013-lodge-leadershipworkshop

Bro. Ray Lawry honored for 60 years Grand Master Daniel L. Slavik presented Bro. Ray Lawry with his 60 Year Service Award at the Oregon Lodge Past Master’s Dinner and Awards Night on Oct. 17. Bro. Ray was raised in Oregon Lodge on March 7, 1953. He served the Lodge as Master in 1960. Bro. Lawry is a very active member in the Lodge and was instrumental in the building of the current Oregon Masonic Center in 1961. Photo by Rich Rygh

Stated Communications

(continued from page 18)

Sparta

Whitefish Bay

Wauwatosa

Valley Lodge No. 60 603 N. Court St. • 608-269-2616 Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesday, 7 p.m. Dark July & August

Geo. Washington 1776 Lodge No. 337 517 E. Beaumont Ave. • 414-964-4080 Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Henry L. Palmer Lodge No. 301 4315 N. 92nd St. • 414-463-8390 Fridays, 7:00 p.m. Dark July & August

Masonic Quotes

Star Prairie

Wilmot

Wauwatosa

"You can never cross the Ocean until you have the courage to lose sight of the shore." - Christopher Columbus

North Star Lodge No. 187 207 Bridge St. • 715-246-6258 Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:00 p.m. Dark June, July & August

Wilmot Lodge No. 241 30702 113th St. • 262-812-6570 Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. 2nd Tuesday only July & August

Wisconsin Lodge No. 13 4315 N. 92nd St. • 414-463-8390 (Sec) Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark June & July

Masonry is not, and was never intended to be, a reform society. If an applicant isn’t a good man when he is taken in, he never will be afterwards. – More Light, Grand Lodge F. & A.M. of Wisconsin, December 1941 "The only way of finding the limits of the possible is by going beyond them into the impossible." - Arthur Clarke From District 8 Deputy Marc Steiber

Stevens Point

Winneconne

West Bend

Evergreen Lodge No. 93 1578 Strongs Ave. • 715-572-3981 Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Dark January & February

Winneconne Lodge No. 186 2 N. 1st Street • 920-582-7815 (Sec) Meet 2nd & 4th Tues., 7 p.m. Dark July & August

West Bend Lodge No. 138 301 N. University Dr. • 262-338-3112 Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7 p.m. Meets All Year

Sturgeon Bay

Wisconsin Dells

West Salem

Henry S. Baird Lodge No. 174 31 S. 3rd Ave. • 920-493-3727 Meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Dells Lodge No. 124 815 Oak St. • 608-254-7012 Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark January & February

Salem Lodge No. 125 101 W. Hamilton St. • 608-786-0930 (Sec) Meets 4th Wednesday, 7:00 p.m. Dark July & August

Sun Prairie

Wisconsin Rapids

Whitefish Bay

Sun Prairie Lodge No. 143 152 N. Bird St. • 608-320-9582 Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Dark July & August

Wisconsin Rapids Lodge No. 128 2321 2nd Ave. So. • 715-216-9051 Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. Dark July & August

Aurora Lodge No. 30 517 E. Beaumont Ave. • 414-964-4080 Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Superior

Silas H. Shephard

Whitefish Bay

Acacia-Itasca Lodge No. 329 3117 N. 21 St .• 715-392-0268 Meet 1st & 3rd Fridays, 7:00 p.m. Dark July & August

Lodge of Research No. 1843 307 N. Lake Rd., Oconomowoc • 262-893-1106 2nd Saturday • March, June, Sept., Dec. Call for meeting location

Geo. Washington 1776 Lodge No. 337 517 E. Beaumont Ave. • 414-964-4080 Meet 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Superior

Waukesha

Wilmot

Superior Lodge No. 236 1503 Belknap St .• 218-391-9877 (Sec) Meet 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Meets All Year

Waukesha Lodge No. 37 317 South Street • 262-542-6753 Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Wilmot Lodge No. 241 30702 113th St. • 262-812-6570 Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. 2nd Tuesday only July & August

Tomah

Waupaca

Tomah Lodge No. 132 520 E. Saratoga Street • 608-372-5507 Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7 p.m. Dark July & August

Waupaca Lodge No. 123 105½ N. Main Street • 715-258-6198 Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Dark June, July & August

Winneconne Lodge No. 186 2 N. 1st Street • 920-582-7815 (Sec) Meet 2nd & 4th Tues., 7 p.m. Dark July & August

Waupun

Wisconsin Dells

Union Grove Union Grove Lodge No. 288 1021 – 11th Ave. • 262-878-1494 Meet 3rd Saturday, 8:30 a.m. Meets All Year

Waupun Lodge No. 48 16 S. Madison St. • 920-324-3141 Meets 1st Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Wausau

West Salem Salem Lodge No. 125 101 W. Hamilton St. • 608-786-0930 (Sec) Meets 4th Wednesday, 7:00 p.m. Dark July & August

Whitefish Bay Aurora Lodge No. 30 517 E. Beaumont Ave. • 414-964-4080 Meet 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark July & August

Forest Lodge No. 130 130 First Street • 715-845-5198 Meet Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Dark June, July & August

Wautoma Wautoma Lodge No. 148 203 S. Scott St. • 920-647-1614 (Sec.) Meet 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7:00 p.m. Dark January & February

Winneconne

Dells Lodge No. 124 815 Oak St. • 608-254-7012 Meet 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Dark January & February

Wisconsin Rapids Wisconsin Rapids Lodge No. 128 2321 2nd Ave. So. • 715-216-9051 Meet 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. Dark July & August

Silas H. Shephard Lodge of Research No. 1843 307 N. Lake Rd., Oconomowoc • 262-893-1106 2nd Saturday • March, June, Sept., Dec. Call for meeting location .


New Master Mason

Bro. Don Baumann is new MM Neosho-Mayville-Horicon Lodge No. 108 raised Bro. Donald Baumann on September 17. The evening was well attended and a hearty lunch of sub sandwiches, German potato salad, potato chips, oatmeal cranberry cookies and brownies were served afterwards. From left: District 10 Deputy David E. Tainter, Donald Baumann and Master Mark Cameron. Submitted by Bro. John Christenson, Past Master

Question about Freemasonry?

Ask Hiram

[email protected]. or mail your question to the Grand Lodge Office c/o Ask Hiram 36275 Sunset Drive, Dousman, WI 53118

Traveling Gavel District 1 Barnes Lodge No. 365 District 2 Blue Hills Lodge No. 234 District 3 Virginia Falls Lodge No. 226 District 4 Tri-County Daylite Lodge No. 218 District 5 La Crosse Masonic Lodge No. 190 District 6 Mosinee Lodge No. 318

District 7 Hiram Lodge No. 50 District 8 Melody Lodge No. 2 District 9 Waucoma Lodge No. 90 District 10 Waupun Lodge No. 48 District 11 Waukesha Lodge No. 37 District 12 Wisconsin Lodge No. 13

Please check with the Master of the lodge listed before scheduling a trip to claim the Traveling Gavel. It may already have been claimed by or delivered to another lodge.


Bro. Bud Compton Returns to Wisconsin By Milt Helmer Tucked away on a windy hill in Trimbelle township, far off the busy highway, is a simple little cemetery that very few know even exits. It was the long sought destination for a retired Air Force Lt. Col recently. Bro. Roy L. (Bud) Compton of Marysville, Washington had made his regular pilgrimage back to Wisconsin from Washington State to reconnect with his roots. His great grandfather McLaughlin is buried in the scenic cemetery. He had visited the site before, 10 years ago, but this time around he couldn’t remember where it was. He visited with Carol Helmer while here. He is Carol’s Uncle Bud. She spent a summer with Bud and his wife Peg one summer in Hawaii when Carol was right out of high school.

Bro. Compton was stationed in Hawaii at the time. While visiting with Carol on his recent visit, he asked her husband Bro. Milt if he know where the Trimbelle cemetery was. A quick reference to the internet revealed the Trimbelle cemetery and the men drove over to the scenic site just west of Trimbelle. Bro. Compton was born in Eau Claire and his family moved to Winona, Minnesota when he was only 2. While touring the country side Bro. Bud shared his incredible story. He was an Air Force Navigator on the fabled B-17 in WWII. On their ninth mission over Hungary his plane experienced mechanical trouble and the crew was ordered to bail out. The plane made it back to base, but he and his crew spent the next 6 months as prisoners of war. Following the war, Bro. Comp-

ton returned to the states and remained in the Air Force. In 1952 he was ordered into B-26 training and was assigned to the 13th Bomb Squadron. He logged 50 night missions over North Korea. Many assignments followed and he retired on June 30, 1965 as a Lt. Col. at the age of Forty. As one would expect, Bro. Bud racked up an impressive list of decorations during his years of service. He is the holder of: Air Metal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, EAME campaign, WWII Victory, American Campaign, Korean Service, UN Service, Purple Heart, Distinguished Flying Cross, Good Conduct Medal, AF Reserve Metal, National Defense Service, AFLSA with 3 Oak Leave Clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal and POW medal. Retired and with time on his hands, Bro. Compton went to work as an assessor for his area and became very active in this work for many years. With a keen interest in public service he served with the Washington State Assessors Association, United Way and American Ex-Prisoners of War, Rotary, his Blue Lodge, Scottish Rite and Shrine. When his wife Peg was Worthy Matron he served with her as Worthy Patron. He lost his wife of 58 years in 2004 and now ventures out as often as he can to visit with his family in Winona and Wisconsin. Not one to sit still, Bro. Bud is now the editor of the Invader, the newsletter of his beloved 13th Bomb Squadron Association. Looking back on his long and storied life, He has no regrets and

Bro. Roy L. ( Bud ) Compton spends some time with his ancestors at the Trimbelle Cemetery in Pierce County, Wisconsin. Photo by Bro. Milt Helmer cherishes his remaining family. His adventures have taken him all over the world, but he found

peace and a sense of belonging on a windy hill overlooking the Trimbelle Valley in Pierce County.

Christmas Carol Seeking Donations of Tuxedo Tailcoats, Top Hats and 1980’s Ladies Clothing Donations of gently worn tuxedo tailcoats, top hats and 1980's ladies clothing are needed for use in "A Christmas Carol" in West Bend. 1980's ladies suits, jackets, dresses, and business or evening attire work especially well to be made into Victorian Era costumes. Even though the same show is produced every year, different people play the parts, so there is a constant need for new costume pieces to be remade into new costumes." Long skirts, velvet jackets, and boots are also appreciated. Nancy Storrs asks that anyone who may have clothing of any size, please contact her at [email protected] or 262-305-9613 (voice or text) to arrange pick up.


Three Pillars Haunted Woods

Photos by Rich Rygh


Scottish Rite 120th Council of Deliberation Celebrates 200 Years of Brotherhood

Ill∴Michael A. DeWolf 33º, Commander in Chief, addresses the Council. Seated from left: Ill∴John Wm McNaughton, Sovereign Grand Commander of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction; Ill∴Benny L. Grisham, Deputy for Illinois; Ill∴Robert Conley 33º; and Ill∴Rick L. Schnabel 33º.

Ill∴and M∴W∴Daniel L. Slavik, 33º, Grand Master of Masons in Wisconsin addresses the 120th Wisconsin Council of Deliberation at the Humphrey Scottish Rite Masonic Center in Milwaukee on Oct. 25.

Bro. Jan Talaga (right) has a few stories to tell at the registration table. From left: Shane Beecraft, J. Patrick Storrs, John Bugajski and John Wozniak.

Ill∴Robert Conley 33º, Director of Member Services, Grand Lodge of Michigan, presents his talk, “Navigating the Gates”.

Photos by Rich Rygh

Ill∴Michael A. DeWolf 33º, Commander in Chief, presents service awards to (from left): Terry Loper 32º M.S., Ill∴Paul Lenz 33º, Ill∴Robert Canfield 33º, Ill∴James Wade 33º and Ill∴Jeffrey L. Bryden 33º.


Ill∴Michael A. DeWolf, Deputy for Wisconsin receives a special gift from Ill∴Benny L. Grisham, Deputy for Illinois.