Volume XXX No. 9, May 2013

Philanthropic obligations are in our Code

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he most significant philanthropy in the “bulls eye” of Oregon Freemasonry is related to the wives, widows, mothers, daughters and sisters of Master Masons. This thought has been imbedded in our Masonic being since we took our first Obligation at the Altar of FreeM.W.B. Hunt M. Compton, Grand Master masonry. To meet that end there has been much to do about solicitations and donations to the Home Endowment Fund — the fund that is never reduced. The interest on this fund is used to provide support for our members of the Masonic & Eastern Star Home (MESH), who live at the Jennings McCall Center, a retirement facility in Forest Grove, Oregon. These funds also support Masonic-

IN THIS

Issue

1 Grand Master’s Message 1 Financial D’s - Mike Wick 2 Jennings Journal article 3 Grand Master’s Calendar 4 News from Our Lodges 4 Senior Prom at JMC 5 Contributions 7 Annual Communication form 9 MESH Report - R.A. Martin, IPGM 11 Raising a Reader

Aid, which provides aid and support to our members in need. It may interest some of you to know that the Oregon Masonic Code (Constitution and By-Laws) has a part in ensuring that support. The Code also allows additional support indirectly through donations to other entities. As an explanation, the Oregon Code sometimes refers to “Home Operating,” “Home Building,” or simply “Home” which, in reality, is the MESH. I will touch briefly on Code Sections related to Dues and Fees, Educational Assistance, Masonic Relief and Home Endowment. Dues and Fees Section 157 Fees, Dues, Assessments, Etc. to be paid by Lodges: The Entered Apprentice Degree Fee allocates $5 to Home Operating and Maintenance Fund and $5 to Home Building Fund. Affiliation from another Jurisdiction allocates $10 to the Home Building Fund. For each Master Mason reported on the annual returns (9,325 as of 12-31-12) there is an allocation of: $5.50 to Home Operating and Maintenance ($51,287); 15 cents to Masonic Service Association Hospital Visitation Fund ($1,398); $1 to the George Washington Masonic National Memorial ($9,325); and 35 cents to the Masonic Service Association of North America ($3,263). (MSA is a Natural Disaster Relief Fund with its first appeal for help in 1923 by the Grand Jurisdiction of Japan for earthquake relief. Continued on page 2

Financial duties require 3 D’s — R.W.B. Mike Wick, Senior Grand Warden

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s a Blue Lodge Mason in Oregon, what does “Duty of Care,” “Duty of Loyalty” and “Duty of Obedience” mean to you? If you are a Lodge officer, a trustee, or a committee member with financial duties pertaining to your Lodge, you may very well be acting in a fiduciary capacity. If so, it can be very important that you both understand, and comply with, the three duties of Care, Loyalty and Obedience as they apply to fiduciaries. A fiduciary, for purposes of this article, is defined as an individual or Lodge committee member who has the authority and duty to make financial decisions on behalf of the other Lodge members, including the management of Lodge investments. Lodge investments may include financial instruments, e.g. CDs, stocks, mutual funds, etc., in addition to the building and real property which may be owned by the Lodge. At the Blue Lodge level, the Masonic Code of Oregon requires each Lodge to have a Finance Committee, composed Continued on page 3

The Jennings Journal• This article was excerpted from the April issue of Jennings Journal, printed for the Jennings McCall community.

Memory Care

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ur beautiful, thoughtfully designed Jennings McCall community will provide the finest memory care lifestyle options for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. We’ll offer the highest quality health services, enhanced activity programs, and dining experiences — all in a safe, secure environment. The individual and companion studio apartments, available for rent on a month-to-month basis, offer residents a sense of privacy and independence. All will feature spacious bathrooms and walk-in showers. The common areas’ design promotes socialization among residents, family and friends. The common areas also feature life skill stations that encourage involvement in familiar activities of daily living. At Jennings McCall, the dedicated and caring staff is specially trained in life enrichment programs that encourage residents to stay engaged with others and the world around them. The life enrichment programs focus on purposeful and meaningful activities that allow residents to enjoy their environment regardless of the degree of memory loss. To assure outstanding care for everyone, a personal service plan is created with the resident, family and staff input. Since the plan focuses on specific individual needs and preferences, the resident receives services that are truly beneficial. Jennings McCall’s service plan goal is to promote health and quality of life for residents and peace of mind for their families.

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— Channon Larson, Jennings McCall Administrator

Page 2 — May 2013

Grand Master’s Message, continued from page 1 More than 100 appeals have been made through 2012. To date, over $9,500,000 has been distributed through this program.) This per capita figure alone generated $65,275 for these entities for year-end 2012. Educational Assistance Section 128.7 Addresses Educational Assistance. This fund is made available for any children or grandchildren of a Master Mason — of a Lodge in this jurisdiction — needing assistance to obtain an education in public schools K through 12 or post high school through age 22. These children may apply and, if found eligible, may be provided assistance. Appropriation for Educational Assistance is made available from income generated from the Endowed Educational Assistance Fund. For school year 2012-13, $94,000 was allocated; $85,500 was distributed. Masonic Relief Section 128.8 The Trustees of the Grand Lodge shall investigate all applications for assistance made to the Grand Master or the Trustees and appropriate from the General Fund such amounts as they shall determine to be necessary and proper. Home Endowment Fund Section 155.3 I touched on the Masonic and Eastern Star Home earlier, as the Entered Apprentice Degree fee and Per Capita contribute to the Home Operating and Maintenance Fund and the Home Building Fund. The Home Endowment Fund is the dedicated fund for the benefit of the Masonic and Eastern Star

Home. It consists of gifts, devises and bequests. Only the interest earnings may be used and they are transferred to the Home Operating and Maintenance Fund to care for the MESH. This year the Grand Master has been selling pins, pens, tie bars, calendars and tux savers. Proceeds go to Home Endowment. Oftentimes the Grand Lady will have a fund raiser. This year her project was for raised planter boxes at the Jennings McCall Center. Any proceeds over cost will go to Home Endowment. Summary That, in a nutshell, represents the greatest portion of the Grand Lodge philanthropies as designated by the Code. Many of the local Blue Lodges have their own independent favorite beneficiary for their own communities which may include Bikes for Books, Child ID Program or various local shelters. Whatever their particular favorite philanthropy, the Lodges are to be commended for the work they do to support our obligation. Since the month of May includes Mother’s Day, I would like to extend a token of Friendship and Brotherly Love not only to our mothers, but also to the wives, widows, sisters and daughters who have so generously allowed the Masons to carry on one of their favorite pastimes. Respectfully and fraternally, Hunt M. Compton, Grand Master 2012-2013

On Retirement: “The worst of work nowadays is what happens to people when they cease to work.” — Gilbert K. Chesterton “The best time to start thinking about retirement is before the boss does.” — Anonymous

GRAND MASTER’S TENTATIVE ITINERARY Financial D’s,

from previous column

May 2013

2 — Blanco No. 48, Coos Bay, Official Visit; dinner, 6 p.m.; Lodge, 7:30 p.m. - U, L 3 — Hillah Shrine Honors Grand Master, Medford; dinner, 6 p.m. - U, L 4 — District Deputy Training, 10 a.m., Forest Grove 5 — Grand Lodge Officer Training, 10 a.m., Forest Grove 7 — Grants Pass No. 84, Official Visit; dinner, 6:30 p.m.; Lodge, 7:30 p.m. - U, L 8 — Lyon No. 29, Independence, Official Visit; dinner, 6 p.m.; Lodge, 7:30 p.m. - U, L 9 — Silverton No. 45, Official Visit; 7:30 p.m. - U 11 — MESH, Forest Grove Senior Prom at Jennings McCall, 6 p.m. 15 — Waluga No. 181, Lake Oswego, Official Visit; 6-9 p.m. - U, L 24 — DeMolay Conclave, formal opening and banquet,* 5 p.m. - T, U, L 26 — DeMolay Conclave, formal banquet and installation,* 6 p.m. - T, U, L 27 — Memorial Day - Enjoy! * Conclave is at the Wilsonville Al Kader. Deadline for dinner reservations is May 3. Checks payable to: Oregon DeMolay - Conclave 2013 and mail to Oregon DeMolay Conclave 2013, 709 SW 15th Ave., Suite 300, Portland, OR 97205

June 2013

5 — Grand Masters Banquet, 6 p.m. social hour, 7 p.m. dinner - T, L Invitation only 6 — Grand Lodge of Oregon 163rd Annual Communication, Salem - U Fellowship Banquet; 6 p.m., social hour; 7 p.m., dinner - business casual 7 — Grand Lodge of Oregon 163rd Annual Communication, Salem - U Installation of Grand Lodge Officers 2013-2014, 4 p.m., Salem - U, L



U = Uniform; L = Ladies; T = Tuxedo; S = Suit; SU = Summer Uniform

Financial D’s, from page one of the Senior Warden as chairman, plus two other members. This committee may be charged with the fiduciary responsibility of improving their Lodge’s finances through the management of its investments, and should therefore be expected to meet certain standards of conduct and attention in fulfilling their responsibilities. That is “the three D’s.” First, the Duty of Care requires you read pertinent documents, attend and participate in meetings, and use the same level of diligence and care that any prudent person would use under similar circumstances. Keep-

ing informed so that the decisions you make are grounded on a firm understanding of the surrounding issues is key. Second, the Duty of Loyalty means any private or personal interests are put aside so that the best interest of the Lodge is always first and foremost in any financial decision making. Conflicts of interest should be especially avoided as well as any information obtained as a result of your fiduciary position being used for personal gain or benefit. Third, the Duty of Obedience requires you comply with all laws Continued in next column

which may affect the business of your Lodge. The proper filing of all required federal and state forms, including any withholding or employment taxes, as well as compliance with civil rights and non-discrimination laws are all examples of fulfilling this duty. Transparency and regularly scheduled reviews of activities when it comes to Lodge investments should always be standard operating procedure. Reports should be made to the Lodge on a regular basis and as called for by the Master of the Lodge. Lodge investments are not meant to be managed in a vacuum. What the Lodge members don’t know can hurt them! The management of Lodge investments is both a duty and an opportunity for members to contribute to the success of their Lodges. High standards of conduct must be observed as part of this important responsibility, thus assuring sound and prudent decisions can be made. Fraternally, R.W.B. Mike Wick, Senior Grand Warden +

Musical opportunity beckons

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he Al Kader Shrine Concert Band extends an open invitation to those Brethren who play, or have played, a standard band instrument to be our guest at rehearsals and performances. For further information, please call Tom Chapelle (503/630-4908), Durwood Jaeger (503/598-0107), or Clem Norton (503/659-3459). +

May 2013 — Page 3

NEWS FROM OUR LODGES

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n March 27th the officers and members of Washington Lodge No. 46, Portland, made an unusual visit. They opened Lodge on the Entered Apprentice Degree, went to refreshment, and then left the Lodge building to visit a Past Master and 50-year member. Al Johnson, Lodge treasurer, is in an assisted living center after a stroke on New Year’s Eve.

Nearly 15 members crowded into Al’s room and spent a good time visiting. They again returned to Washington Lodge, went from refreshment to labor, and closed Lodge on the EA Degree. This was certainly Brotherly Love in action, one that many of the young Masons have never experienced. And: March 1 was a great day

for Gresham Lodge No. 152 and the Pratt family. It was the day Nathaniel A. Pratt received his Master Mason Degree. He is 19 and the sixth generation of Pratts to contribute to Freemasonry in Oregon. Irving W. Pratt was Grand Secretary in 1879 and the first Potentate of Al Kader Shrine. Ard Pratt Sr. was active in Blue Lodge and the Shrine in the ’50s through the ’70s. He put together a MM Degree team — all deputy sheriffs — and raised Nathaniel’s grandfather, Ard Pratt Jr. in 1969. The youngest Pratt Mason is a

Past Master Councilor at Mt. Hood DeMolay and is currently Senior Councilor there. He hopes to join the Shrine at the May Ceremonial, but will stay active in the Blue Lodge. More Lodge news on page 6 Gresham Lodge No. 152 — March 2013

Page 4 — May 2013

JMC ‘Senior Prom’ set for Saturday, May 11

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he Masonic and Eastern Star Home Board is honoring all the residents of Jennings McCall, and their families, by sponsoring a “Senior Prom” on May 11, 2013. It will have all the trimmings of a senior prom, including live music, decorations, special entertainment and Senior Pictures. Music begins at 6 p.m. with Billy and the Rockets to perform for your dancing pleasure. For only $1 you can get a ticket to dance with the Grand Master or the Worthy Grand Matron! There will also be special appearances by the “Blues Brothers” and the “Supremes.” There will be plenty of punch (don’t spike it please) and all kinds of treats. Adult beverages will be available for those so inclined. All are invited until we exceed the fire department’s suggested occupancy. Find your way out to Jennings McCall in Forest Grove and look for the Jefferson Room. Put on your dancing shoes, your outfit from the ’50s, and join the celebration! — M.W.B. Richard A. Martin, IPGM

June OMN deadline March 5, 2013 — April 10, 2013 Masonic & Eastern Star Home Fellowcraft Club

Janice Bernsten – in memory of Josephine Graham Hyman Sadoff Living Trust (207)

Apprentice Club

Charles M. McDowell (64) – in memory of Don Jones (64)

Petitioner Club

Sidney Croft Lodge No. 206 Arthur D. Case Jr. (44) James McNamara (154) Joseph Lodge No. 81 - in memory of Gerald W. Uterhardt (81) Judy Bousquet Quentin E. Smith (112) in memory of Errol Duke (102) Myrtle Lodge No. 78 Blue Mountain Lodge No. 34

Masonic OutReach Petitioner Club

Jennifer Brundidge - in honor of Tom Burke (78) and in memory of Forrest A. Steen Robert H. Swenson (57)

Oregon Masonic Charitable Foundation Fellowcraft Club

Lou McCollum - Hansen, Hunter & Co., PC - for Golf Tournament

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he June issue is the last issue for this Masonic year. During July and August the Oregon Masonic News is not printed. If your Lodge will have summer events, such as Outdoor Degrees, picnics or fundraisers, you should be sure to submit an article to Grand Secretary Paul Temple, [email protected], to get your information into the June issue. The deadline for that issue is May 5th. If you have an event over the summer and take some pictures, be sure and send them to the Grand Secretary for inclusion in the September Oregon Masonic News. The deadline for that issue is August 5th.

Petitioner Club

Martin welcomed to prestigious national board

Your donation, no matter what size, helps Oregon Masonry achieve its goals and fulfill its mission.

M.W.B. Richard A. Martin, I.P.G.M., 2011-2012, was asked to join the National Masonic Foundation for Children’s Board of Directors. The Masonic Model Student Assistance Program, established in 1986, is the foundation’s flagship program. M.W.B. Martin’s appointment to the board will help the foundation continue its work well into the future, as it continues to promote a model of prevention and intervention. This has proven to be a vital tool in creating safe learning environments by reducing violence, abuse, addiction and self-harming behavior.

Sidney Croft Lodge No. 206 - for MMSAP Corvallis Lodge No. 14 - for MMSAP

Oregon Masonic News The Oregon Masonic News is published monthly (except July and August) by authority of the Trustees of The Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Oregon. Editors are the Trustees of the Grand Lodge. Deadline for copy is the fifth of the month preceding the publication date. Example: May 5 for June issue. High resolution photos, along with story submissions, may be sent electronically to the Grand Secretary. Photos should not be reduced in size. Printed photos are also acceptable. If you scan your own photos, they should be at least 300 dpi. Photocopies are NOT acceptable. — The Oregon Masonic News is a publication of the Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Oregon and unauthorized duplication is strictly forbidden ©. Proprietary rights to all articles published in the Oregon Masonic News are the sole property of the author and cannot be reproduced without express permission of the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Oregon. — “News of Lodges” is solicited. Rights are reserved to edit all submitted material, and views expressed in articles may not necessarily be the official position of the Grand Lodge nor an endorsement thereof. Non-members’ domesticsubscription rate is $5 per year. PLEASE NOTE: The mailing address is Oregon Masonic News, 2150 Masonic Way, Forest Grove, OR 97116. Phone: 503-3573158; outside the Portland-area, 800-970-9920. Fax: 503-357-1815. Website: www. masonic-oregon.com. Email: [email protected].

May 2013 — Page 5

More Lodge News Hermiston Lodge No. 138 recognized local educators of the year (below). Hermiston Lodge is happy to single out those teachers who represent excellence in their schools and community. Each educator was given a certificate west of the altar and a lesson in Masonic history from R.W.B. Mike Wick and W.B. John Day. All were then escorted to the dining hall for dessert, with our thanks. Randy Smith, Secretary

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Lodge members: Don’t forget to pack up your Lodge flag or banner and take it to the Annual Communication in Salem so your Lodge can participate in the banner parade on Thursday, June 6, at 1 p.m.

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♪ Three father/son teams ‘at work’ on same day On Oct. 13, 2012, by courtesy work at Pendleton Lodge No. 52, three father/son teams were present. On this occasion, one son, Mike Arnerich, was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason. In the photo, left to right, are: Bro. Mike Arnerich, Milton Lodge No. 96; W.B. Mike Arnerich Sr., secretary of Modesto Lodge No. 206, California; Bro. Steven Scanlon; his father, W.B. Sean Scanlon, W. Master of Walla Walla Lodge No. 7, Washington; Bro. Bradley Scott; and his father W.B. Mark Scott, Master of Evening Star Lodge No. 30, Pomeroy, Washington. Also raised on the same date, by courtesy, was Bro. Mel Lappen, of Wildhorse Lodge No. 65 (not pictured). Page 6 — May 2013

This was a momentous occasion, as W.B. Arnerich Sr. assisted in the degree work for his son. The other two father/son teams also took part in the ceremonies. W.B. Scott is an uncle of the younger Arnerich, so this was really a family activity.

The photo above and the one-ofa-kind chili feed, provided between degrees, were the work of R.W.B. Gene Wright, District Deputy of the Grand Master District No. 21. +

Women plan Salem tour, luncheon

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adies, please join me, Grand Lady Patti Compton, for a funfilled afternoon, Thursday, June 6. We will board a tour bus at 10 a.m. and the first stop will be a short visit to the State Capitol and the beautiful sculpture museum outside and exciting history inside. Then we’ll go to the Willamette Heritage Center at The Mill. Stroll through the Willamette Valley’s history on this beautiful 5-acre campus. You may see ladies in bonnets strolling too. Fourteen historic buildings present the stories of Oregon’s past and encompass the richness of its history. Gift shops, a tour of the Mission Mill — part of which was once a textile factory producing woolen items — and lunch will make this an enjoyable afternoon. See the opposite page to reserve a place on the bus tour and order lunch. (The tour is handicap accessible.) For dessert, we will ride to Salem’s Riverfront and all giggle while riding the carousel. Our imaginations are in for a treat as we watch the carvers at work making these beautiful creations. And you won’t want to miss the gift shop. It’s full of surprises for all. This is an afternoon you will remember! We will be back at the Grand Hotel by 3 p.m.

Grand Lady, Patti Compton

THE MASONIC GRAND LODGE, A.F. & A.M., OF OREGON 163RD ANNUAL COMMUNICATION — JUNE 6 & 7, 2013 M.W. GRAND MASTER, Hunt M. Compton, invites all Master Masons, their wives, and guests to attend the Fellowship Banquet Thursday, June 6th at 7:00 p.m., at The Salem Convention Center in Salem, Oregon. There will be a no-host social hour from 6:00 p.m., with dinner starting at 7:00 p.m. Dress for this Banquet will be business casual. Please keep in mind the cost of the meal includes an evening of fun, with some great entertainment! Thursday, the Ladies are invited to attend a Tour of the State Capitol, with the tour progressing to several other historical landmarks commemorating the history of the State of Oregon. The tour bus will load at 10:00 a.m., and will return at approximately 3:00 p.m. A boxed lunch will be provided. This tour is limited to 55 guests, and the attire will be business casual. Also, there will be a Ladies Luncheon on Friday, June 7th, beginning at 11:30 a.m. The theme for this Ladies Luncheon is “The Sound of Music.” Attire will be a nice dress or pant suits. For those ladies who do not wish to take a tour, they may join the men during the Thursday and Friday luncheons. Please complete your meal choices below and return this form with your check, or credit card information to cover the number of tickets you desire for each meal. Unfortunately, tickets cannot be mailed; therefore, reserved tickets will be held in your name and may be picked up in the “Pringle Creek Room” during registration hours from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., on Wednesday, June 5th, and beginning again at 8:00 a.m., on Thursday, June 6th. — NOTICE: Meal tickets will not be sold at the door. Refunds will not be given to those unable to attend. — LODGING: For room reservations you must call The Grand Hotel directly at 1-877-540-7800. Be sure to inform them you are with the Masonic Grand Lodge Group. In order to receive the Group Rates you must make your reservations by May 15, 2013. A full hot buffet breakfast is included with the room.

Visit the Grand Lodge website to view and print this form. www.masonic-oregon.com. Proposed Legislation will be available for viewing on or about April 22, 2013.



Please complete and return the form below for your tickets.

Mail orders must reach the Grand Lodge office by Friday, May 17th.

Please enclose check, money order, or provide VISA, Master Card, or American Express information Card #________________________________________________ exp. date___________ 3 Digit Code:_______ Name as it appears on Card __________________________________________________________________ Billing address (incl. ZIP code) ____________________________________________________________ (required) (please provide the address as it appears on your statement) Thursday Lunch tickets (All Invited) Turkey and Ham Foccacia Wedge (includes carrot cake) at $22.00 X ______ $_________ Thursday Ladies Bus Tour & Lunch: (Meal selections include dessert & bottled water) at $32.00 each (tour & lunch) (Please select sandwich choice) Sandwich: Chicken Salad on Croissant ____ Tuna Salad on Croissant ____ Or: Vegetarian Option ____ $_________ Thursday Fellowship Banquet tickets Marinated Pork Tenderloin at $39.00 X ______ $_________ (Vegetarian meals Chicken Medallions at $39.00 X ______ $_________ available on request) Portabella Marsala at $39.00 X ______ $_________ Friday Lunch tickets Chicken Club at $22.00 X ______ $_________ (All Invited) (Includes Chocolate Fudge Cake) Friday Ladies Luncheon tickets Cobb Salad at $24.00 X ______ $_________ (Includes seasonal Northwest Berry Crisp) Enclosed is the total amount of $ ________________ Your Telephone Number ______________________________________ (in case of questions regarding order) Your Name _________________________________ Your Lodge Name & No. _____________________________ Your Ladies Name _________________________________ Email: ______________________________________ Send to Paul Temple, Grand Secretary - 2150 Masonic Way, Forest Grove, OR 97116 Questions? Call 503/357-3158 or 1-800-970-9920. Please make checks payable to Masonic Grand Lodge of Oregon

May 2013 — Page 7

Marketing vs. Activity: Giving members what they want — by W.B. Ted Balestreri

— by John Plummer

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have just returned from two Occasional Grand Lodges as I write this. When the membership topic was raised by our Grand Master, many Masters expressed their desire — or should we say “need” — for more membership-driven marketing. This is the same chant that has been expressed for years and various ideas have been floated as to how to bring more men into our Fraternity. The issue is not getting more men to join; it is the issue of once they join, they do not attend. According to our Grand Lecturer we have around 9,500 Masons in Oregon, but how many of them actually attend Lodge? As Worshipful Master of your Lodge, can you honestly say over 10 percent of your Lodge membership attends? The question is why are they not attending? Over the years, and in my travels, I have listened to new members say they joined for one of two reasons: First, to help their communities, and second, to learn about the “secrets” of Masonry. Both issues are covered in our Obligations, but how many Lodges actually try to provide either or both of these goals? Most Lodges seem to feel they are succeeding by having a business meeting and a dinner. And then they wonder why so few Brothers attend.

Molalla Lodge raffles hunting rifle

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The successful Lodges are those that provide more than these business meetings. They meet for a purpose, such as to put on a community activity like Bikes for Books, a community oyster feed or some other charity. Currently, the most active Lodges — both for recruitment and active membership — are those that provide some Masonic Education component. This is often in the form of a lecture concerning some aspect of our Myth, Tradition or History. Brothers, be they young or old, all want to learn something. They may not agree on everything, but it beats the “same old business meetings.” My question to all of us is: Do we just go through the motions of running a Lodge or do we have a purpose? It seems those Lodges who have a purpose do not worry about getting new members, but having “enough evening” to Raise all their new members. +

olalla Lodge No. 178 is having its annual fund raiser and raffling off a Ruger American 30.06 hunting rifle. It has the Masonic Square and Compasses laser engraved on the stock and will also have the winner’s name and Lodge name laser engraved on it. Five hundred raffle tickets will be sold for $10 each, or three for $20. This is the Lodge’s annual fund raiser for the charity work they do. Molalla Lodge No. 178 will have a table at Grand Lodge and other major Masonic events where you can get your raffle tickets, or you can contact the Lodge by calling Bro. John Plummer, Senior Warden, at 817/807-6484 to purchase your raffle tickets. The drawing will be held at Molalla’s September 2013 Stated Communication on Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2013. Please help support their Lodge and all other Lodges and Grand Lodge fund raisers as we work together in doing charity work in each of our communities.

A Bag of Tools — R. Lee Sharpe Isn’t it strange that princes and kings, And clowns that caper in sawdust rings, And common people, like you and me, Are builders for eternity?

Page 8 — May 2013

Each is given a bag of tools, A shapeless mass, a book of rules; And each must make - ere life is flown A stumbling block, or a steppingstone.

Above, left to right, are John Plummer, Senior Warden; Mike McGuyer, Worshipful Master; and Rob Livingston, Junior Warden, with Molalla’s raffle prize.

Masonic & Eastern Star Home report enumerates upgrades, by M.W.B. Richard A. Martin, I.P.G.M. changes, goals

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anuary 2013 marked the beginning of the second year that Aidan Health Services has administered the operations of the Jennings McCall Center. Aidan’s mission was to make operational changes that resulted in efficiencies, while maintaining exceptional levels of care for the resiRichard A. Martin, dents. They IPGM were also charged with turning years of losses around and making the Jennings McCall Center a profitable entity. I am pleased to report that they have accomplished their goals; they have maintained and, in some cases, improved the quality of service to the residents, and every month since June of 2012 has been profitable. Several improvements have been made to the Home in the past year. The Board authorized replacement of the old vehicle that was used to transport residents: The new van is more fuel efficient, easier to enter, more comfortable and, of course, looks much nicer. Many residents complained about the drafty entrance to the building, so a heated “air curtain” was installed to rectify that. The fire panel was replaced and the fire system was inspected and brought up to the latest standards. We have replaced the sign on the

Quince Street entrance, and construction is currently underway to replace the Oak Street sign. Our most aggressive project, however, is the construction of a Memory Care Unit. In the past, residents of the Home have had to relocate when they developed Alzheimer disease or dementia. So that the residents would not have to move in those situations, and also to improve the occupancy rate of Jennings McCall, the Home Board voted this year to establish a Memory Care Unit within the Home. The closed unit will house up to 14 residents and be self-sufficient — with its own kitchen, day room and bedrooms. A second kitchen will be constructed just adjacent to the unit, for a second Memory Care unit in the future. Building the second kitchen now will save approximately 20 percent of the total cost because of economies of scale. The second Memory Care unit will hold 10 residents for a total of 24 Memory Care units. Completion of the first unit and the additional kitchen is scheduled for June 14, 2013. These new units have been designed for the future; the upgrades in design, lighting and furni-

ture can be extended to the rest of Jennings McCall if we continue to make a profit on the Home. Some possible future MESH Board goals are: 1. Increase occupancy at the Jennings McCall Center, thereby increasing the profit to pay for upgrades to the Home. 2. Encourage more Masons and Eastern Star members to apply for MESHCare by simplifying the application process and reducing the amount of net worth necessary to enter the Home. 3. Expand Outreach Services so that more Masons and Eastern Star Members will be helped. Also, if possible, include placement of members into retirement or lifecare centers throughout the state, with MESHCare. 4. Continue to grow the Home Endowment fund through contributions, gifts and wills. 5. Lastly, and most importantly, continue to provide the highest level of care possible to all the residents of the Jennings McCall Center. In closing, let me say that it has been a privilege and an honor to serve the Grand Lodge and the Masonic and Eastern Star Home these last six years as a Grand Lodge Officer. It is a period of my life filled with memories of friendship and love for all the many Brothers and Sisters I have come in contact with. I thank each and every one of you for the opportunity.

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Meet our MasonicAid team at June’s Annual Communication

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uring the June Annual Communication at the Salem Convention Center, a table for MasonicAid — which includes OutReach Services and MESHCare — will be set up with promotional materials, brochures and a presentation board. Danielle Christopherson, OutReach Services coordinator, and Tammy Vanderzanden, MESHCare coordinator, will be there to answer your questions and talk about MasonicAid. Or see the Grand Lodge website, www. masonic-oregon.com/outreach/. The website will soon “go live” with a MESHCare page also. Get more information about these important Masonic programs so that you, or someone else you know, are able to get the help you need.

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Astoria plans Masonic weekend, dinner

— by Erick L. Arneson

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eaport Lodge No. 7 (Astoria) and Washington Lodge No. 46 (Portland) are teaming up to put on the 1st Annual Astoria Masonic Weekend. We want to raise funds for the Astoria Masonic Center, built in 1924 with help from the Astor family. It represents an important part of Oregon Masonic history. The event is Saturday, Sept. 7, at noon, and begins with a Master Mason Degree conferred by the exemplary Washington Lodge degree team. A family dinner fund raiser is at 4 p.m. Freemasonry in Astoria was established before Oregon gained statehood. Seaport Lodge is the custodian of many fascinating historical artifacts and the Temple is one of Page 10 — May 2013

the finest examples of Masonic architecture in the state. Please help us ensure this important monument is not lost to the ravages of time. Join us for a day of fellowship, food and fun. Dinner tickets are $40 per person. Visit our website http://amw.washington46.org/ for more information.

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e meet upon the LEVEL, and we part upon the SQUARE, What words of precious meaning those words Masonic are! Come let us contemplate them, they are worthy of a thought, With the highest, and the lowest, and the rarest they are fraught. We meet upon the LEVEL, tho’ from every station come The king from out his palace, and the poor man from his home, For the one must leave his diadem outside the Mason’s door, And the other finds his true respect upon the checkered floor. We part upon the SQUARE, for the world must have its due, We mingle with its multitude — a cold, unfriendly crew, But the influence of our gatherings in memory is green, And we long upon the LEVEL to renew the happy scene. There’s a World where all are equal: — we are hurrying toward it fast, We shall meet upon the LEVEL there when the gates of death are past, We shall stand before the Orient, and our Master will be there To try the Blocks we offer by his own unerring SQUARE. We shall meet upon the LEVEL there, but never thence depart ; There’s a Mansion — ’tis all ready for each trusting, loving heart; There’s a Mansion and a Welcome, and a multitude is there, Who have met upon the LEVEL and been tried upon the SQUARE. Let us meet upon the LEVEL then, while laboring patient here, Let us meet and let us labor, tho’ the labor be severe; Already in the Western Sky the signs bid us prepare To gather up our Working Tools, and part upon the SQUARE. Hands round, ye faithful Masons, form the bright fraternal chain, We part upon the SQUARE below to meet in heaven again; Oh what words of precious meaning those words Masonic are — We meet upon the LEVEL, and we part upon the SQUARE. -By Dr. Elisha Kent Kane

Respectfully submitted, Daniel R. Bauer, Past Master, Gresham No. 152 - Member, History Committee

Oregon Masons support Raising A Reader

Salem Wardens College — by W.B. Arthur L. Borland, Senior Grand Deacon set for October

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he Grand Lodge of Oregon is launching a new program aimed at helping children learn how to read. This program is designed to assist local Lodges in helping local schools and local children. Masons have always championed public education and today we are addressing public education at its most fundamental level: child literacy. While schools are charged with teaching children to read, the cornerstone of literacy is established inside the home, through family engagement. Unfortunately, not all families have the resources to fulfill their important role in the learning process — and that’s where we come in. hrough our ground breaking partnership with Raising A Reader, the Masons of Oregon will provide children in select kindergarten classrooms statewide with a book bag containing structured books they will take home to read as a family. This will inspire a new generation of Oregon children to read, learn and succeed — one book at a time. By supporting the Raising A Reader partnership, Oregon Masons are helping create strong family bonds, and building a new cycle of literacy in our state. Through Raising A Reader’s unique “book cuddling” program, we will teach parents to use books as a means to connect with their children — helping children learn to read and creating strong family bonds. Giving families tools

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and support to build a strong educational foundation for their children, we will change the future of thousands of children, their families and our communities. he program’s funding plan is geared for a local Masonic Lodge to share the initial startup cost of the program with the Grand Lodge. This cost sharing will be up to a 50/50 basis. The Lodge will then commit to sustaining the program for five years at a nominal annual fee. If individual Lodges do not feel they can support an entire classroom themselves, they are encouraged to join other Lodges in their District to support a local school or contribute on a smaller scale to the statewide program. Masons who are able to do so can also contribute individually. This is an exciting opportunity to improve literacy and education in our jurisdiction. Look for more information about Raising A Reader in the coming months. +

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he Grand Lodge, A.F. & A.M., of Oregon plans a Wardens College for October 2013. We are excited about the changes we are making and encourage all Lodge Wardens, Senior Deacons and their ladies to attend. The Wardens College will be held at the Salem Convention Center. It will begin Friday evening, Oct. 25, and end at noon on Oct. 27. You and your lady are invited to attend and there will be a number of seminars, classes and work sessions to help you plan your year as the Master of your Lodge. This year we will have a special guest keynote speaker, Dr. S. Brent Morris, who will also address our ladies during one of their seminar sessions. Bro. Morris, below, of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, in Washington, D.C., has written several books on Masonry and is a renowned expert in cryptology. He has taught mathematics, computer science and cryptanalysis at Duke University, Johns Hopkins University and the National Cryptologic School. Bro. Morris is an American author who writes on Freemasonry. He is a Master Mason, a 33° Scottish Rite Mason, and currently the Continued on page 12

May 2013 — Page 11

OREGON MASONIC NEWS

The Grand Lodge of AF & AM of OR 2150 Masonic Way Forest Grove, OR 97116

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SALEM OR PERMIT NO. 526

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October Wardens College, continued from page 11 editor of The Scottish Rite Journal, a publication of the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite Southern Jurisdiction. Each Brother who attends the Wardens College will receive a copy of his book “Is it True What They Say About Freemasonry?” Each Brother’s lady will receive a copy of “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Freemasonry.” Brother Morris will gladly autograph your copy of the book. Additional information concerning the Wardens College will be sent to each Lodge and will be published in the Oregon Masonic News. Please reserve the time from Oct. 25-27. Our Wardens College builds strong Lodges. Arthur L. Borland, + Senior Grand Deacon

The heart has eyes which the brain knows nothing of. — Charles H. Parkhurst Page 12 — May 2013

Spring is really here! Join us at — 2300 Masonic Way • Forest Grove, OR 97116 503.357.4133 • www.jenningsmccall.com