THE FLORIDA M SON

FREE & ACCEPTED MASONS OF THE GRAND LODGE OF FLORIDA

VOLUME 101 ISSUE 3 NOVEMBER 2002

www.glflamason.org www.mmrl.edu

THE MAN WHO WOULD BE KING

PRINCE PAUL OF ROMANIA IS MADE A FLORIDA MASTER MASON
See story page 10
THE FLORIDA MASON IN THIS ISSUE
VOLUME 101 ISSUE 3 Editor’s Message - Fund Raisers 3
NOVEMBER 2002
Grand Master’s Comments 4
EDITOR - M:.W:. James A. Durham
Tim Bryce
P.O. Box 1637, Palm Harbor, FL 34682-1637 Corporate Board Actions/Perpetual Membership 6
Tel: 727/786-4567 Returns to Particular Lodges
Fax: 727/786-4765
E-Mail: timb001@attglobal.net Souvenir Convention Program 6

ADVERTISING Down the Road (Calendar of Events) 9

W:. Louis Marchetti, PM
9397 Midnight Pass Road, Unit #202 NEWS FROM AROUND THE STATE 10
Sarasota, FL 34242
Tel: 941/349-3318 The Man Who Would be King (Cover) 10
E-Mail: louestakey@aol.com Prince Paul of Romania

BUSINESS MANAGER Amelia Lodge Holds George W. Call Civil War-era 11

State Chairman, Public Relations & Publicity Degree
R:.W:. David Paul Royals, PDDGM
1746 Scott Road, Westville, FL 32464 SunCoast Golf Tourny Generates Money for Charity 12
Tel: 850/956-4324
E-Mail: paulroyals@yahoo.com Sunday Dinners at Leesburg Lodge 13

PUBLISHER Mid-Florida Lakes High Twelve Club, Leesburg 13

The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and
Accepted Masons of Florida Martha Mohn of Seminole Receives Memorial 14
Located at: Certificate - Gulf Beach Lodge
220 Ocean Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Mailing Address: Starke Shrine Club 14
P.O. Box 1020, Jacksonville, FL 32201-1020
Tel: 800/375-2339 Grand Master Visits 18th Masonic District 16
WWW: http://www.glflamason.org/
Brandon Past Master Knocks Down a Marlin 16
Grand Lodge Elected Officers for 2002-2003
Grand Master - M:.W:. James A. Durham, Jr. Alpha Lodge No. 172 Sponsors Piano Competition 17
Deputy GM - R:.W:. John R. Givens, PDDGM
SGW - R:.W:. C. Edward Gonzalez, PDDGM District 20 Raises 25 Masons in One Week 18
JGW - R:.W:. Elmer Coffman, PDDGM
Grand Treasurer - M:.W:. J. Roy Crowther Harbor City Holds Table Lodge w/MW Durham 18
Grand Sec.- M:.W:. Roy Connor Sheppard, PGM
Deputy Grand Master Lectures Fellowcraft 19
GRAND MASTER'S CHARITY
Masonic Medical Research Laboratory Rusty Mason VIII Another Success! 19
2150 Bleecker Street, Utica, NY 13501-1787
Tel: 315/735-2217 (more)
Tel: 888/888-6675
Fax: 315/735-5648
E-Mail: kamp@mmrl.edu
WWW: http://www.mmrl.edu/

GRAND MASTER’S THEME

"Excellence Through Knowledge"

1
MASONIC EDUCATION, OPINIONS & POETRY THE FLORIDA MASON is the official magazine of the
Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Ma-
Back to Basics - RWJoseph F. Basler, PDDGM 20 sons of the State of Florida. It is published bi-monthly
and made freely available to Masons and friends of the
What Happens when you stop paying your dues? 21 fraternity.
- W:. J. Bruce Moore, PM
Opinions expressed by individual contributors are their
“The Old Masters Wages” - Neil Neddermeyer 21 own and do not necessarily reflect official position of the
Grand Lodge of Florida unless so stated.
Argument for Quick-Time Degrees - Jerry Lume 22
THE FLORIDA MASON encourages submission of ar-
“Traveling Man” - Wayne Thigpen 22 ticles and pictures, but the editor reserves the right to
edit or reject any article for any reason, and to use only
BIAS - By-Us - Richard A. Wolfe 23 as needs and policies dictate and space permits. Articles
and pictures should be sent to the Editor.
“The Mother Lodge” - Rudyard Kipling 24
Articles can be submitted through THE FLORIDA
And Finally... LIFE Magazine (1956) 25 MASON’s web site; also, copies of the publication can
be downloaded from there as well:

http://www.phmainstreet.com/flmason/

Permission to reprint original articles in THE FLORIDA

MASON is ganted to all recognized Masonic publications
providing credit is given the author and THE FLORIDA
MASON. Copyright © 2002 by the Most Worshipful Grand
Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of Florida (also known
as the "Grand Lodge of Florida"). All rights reserved.

ADVERTISING RATES

The following rate card is based on an annual run of 6

issues per year.

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Business card size (2" X 3+3/4") $ 225.00
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FULL PAGE (9+1/2# X 7+5/8") $1,125.00
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MASONIC FLOAT CLASSIFIEDS: A lodge may like to post their location

and meeting times so that visiting Brothers will know when
The Masonic Float is a float which has been used in and where the lodge will meet. These classified ads would
both large and small parades throughout Florida. It be inexpensive and would have statewide coverage. Even
promotes all branches of the Masonic Family and seats District Deputy Grand Masters might list their official vis-
approximately 30 people. The float can be made its so all members could make plans to attend. The list
available for your next parade simply by contacting the of possibilities for classified advertising is endless.
coordinator below.
Call W:. Bro. Louis Marchetti to place an order:
Float Coordinator 941/349-3318
W:. Steven A. Sagal, PM, DI
954/553-6222
stevesagal@aol.com

NOVEMber 2002 2 THE FLORIDA MASON

 EDITOR’S MESSAGE
“If you have tried something and failed, you are vastly
better off than if you had tried nothing and succeeded.”
FUND RAISERS - Anonymous

Recently, the SunCoast Masters & Wardens Association Keep the faith!
(representing Districts 20 & 21) held a golf tournament Tim Bryce
which generated funds for the Masonic Home and the timb001@attglobal.net
Association’s Scholarship Fund (see story on page 12). Editor
In addition to generating money for charity, the group
enjoyed some good old fashioned Brotherhood. Although
the tournament director is to be commended for his
organization and footwork, he received considerable help
from the golf course hosting the event.

In prior years, the Association’s principal fund raising

event had been a fish fry at the Masonic Home requiring
a tremendous amount of effort on the part of the
coordinator and local Brethren. Despite this well intended
effort, the fish fry generated little in terms of funds.

The contrast in terms of the golf tournament and the

fish fry is substantial and denotes how the times are
changing. The staple of Masonic fund raisers of the
past primarily consisted of pancake breakfasts, fish fries,
and spaghetti dinners. These types of events are
typically labor intensive, generate little interest from
younger and middle aged people and, consequently, P.S. Don't forget to add me to your Trestleboard mailing
produce little in terms of funds. Instead, new types of list:
events aimed at a younger generation are being devised
with much success, such as golf tournaments, trap shoot Tim Bryce
competitions, fishing trips, car shows, health fairs, cigar Editor, THE FLORIDA MASON
smokers, father/son camp trips, shrimp boils, dance c/o M. Bryce & Associates (MBA)
socials involving the wives, outdoor MM degrees with a P.O. Box 1637
theme (e.g., Ft. Clinch), etc. The emphasis now is: Palm Harbor, FL 34682-1637

• Focused on a new generation of Masons; more affluent

and interested in the good life. Lodges are recognizing
that it is vital to stay in step with the changing interests
of the Craft.

• Creating “win-win” situations (promote both

Brotherhood and Charity). Your ad would look great here!

• Making it fun, not boring and routine, thereby Contact Louis Marchetti to place
motivating the Craft to participate. an order:
• KISS (Keep Is Simple Stupid) - minimize the amount
Tel: 941/349-3318
of effort,maximize the return. E-Mail: louestakey@aol.com

These new fund raising events are to be applauded for Advertising rates are posted
their innovation and keeping in step with the times. I’m on the inside cover of this
reminded of the old expression:
publication.

NOVEMber 2002 3 THE FLORIDA MASON

 friendship and associations the world over are practically
endless. Where else and under what circumstances can
you go to a different community on almost any day of
the week, month or year and meet with those who know
you as a personal friend and brother? We are thankful
for the protection that our wives, mothers, sisters and
daughters are afforded — protection that extends
throughout the world wherever Masonry exists.

We are forever extending the hand of friendship and

assistance to those in need. I am reminded of two recent
incidents where one of our own needed help and was
cared for by a Brother. The following is an e-mail that
came from a Florida Past Master regarding a very trying
time that turned out well:

“I am a motorcycle enthusiast. Recently upon returning

GRAND MASTER’S COMMENTS home from a motorcycle event in Daytona, my wife and
I found ourselves stranded, late at night on a desolate
M:.W:. James A. Durham, Jr.
road. For about an hour or better dozens of vehicles
Grand Master of Masons in Florida passed without anyone offering assistance. I was
reluctant to wave most of them over because of the risk
As we approach the holiday season of the year 2002, I of the wrong one stopping. As vehicles approached the
am reminded of the many things for which I am extremely headlights prevented us from determining what it was or
thankful, not the least of which is my citizenship in the the appearance of who was operating it.
greatest country on Earth. Every citizen of the United
States of America, together with every visitor to this great Finally, someone slowed enough for me to tell it was a
nation can thank our creator, the Great Architect of the late model SUV and I took a chance and waved for them
Universe, for the opportunities that we have in this day to stop. The sole occupant was a mature white male
and age. dressed in a shirt and tie. He asked if I needed help and
I told him we were stranded and needed to call for
We are also reminded of how we came by these assistance. He offered his cell phone but it was useless
privileges of citizenship, free speech, a right to protest, in that we were in a dead cell service area. He offered
to join fraternal organizations or to do just about as we to transport one or both of us to assistance. Not wanting
please whenever the mood strikes us, provided we do to separate from my wife or leave my late model touring
not step on the toes of our neighbors. Our founding BMW unattended, we declined his offer but asked him
fathers had been through great struggles in their lives to try his phone later where there might be service. He
and worked diligently and laboriously to create a refused my offer to cover the expense of the calls but he
framework which drives the legal and social systems in did continue to call, no less than six times, as he
our society today. continued his travels, to Ocala to my good friends and
motorcycle companions who had a rescue trailer and
When one feels depressed and perhaps a little out of who did, in fact, shortly rescue us. In addition, our good
sorts, it takes only a look around to appreciate the many Samaritan returned to us, traveling a great distance, to
joys of living in the United States of America. There are let us know he had been able to contact our Ocala friends.
many shortcomings, that is true, but on the whole, the
positives far outweigh the very few negatives we might After our good Samaritan left us the first time my wife
identify. informed me he was wearing Masonic jewelry, something
I had not noticed. When he returned we introduced
Many television programs today border on the immoral ourselves, and discussed our Masonic affiliations. . .
- no, many of them are pure and simple immoral at its
best. On the other hand, television offers many excellent The grand Masonic lesson of charity has hereby, once
forms of entertainment right in our own living room. We again, been reemphasized.”
have only to select the “right” ones for us.

As members of the greatest fraternal organization every (continued on page 5)

known to man - Freemasonry - our opportunities for
NOVEMber 2002 4 THE FLORIDA MASON
GRAND MASTER’S COMMENTS Program which helps to make our annual Grand Lodge
(continued from page 4) budget. There will be opportunities for Lodges, Districts,
appendant orders, and individual Brothers to purchase
The Brother who stopped to assist that past master of a ads at reasonable costs. The District Chairmen for FA-
Florida Masonic Lodge was one of our current District 100 and the District Deputy Grand Masters have the
Deputy Grand Masters. He took a chance in stopping, details on this project.
and I am sure he was cautious. Nevertheless, one of
our Brothers rendered assistance to a needy man and Lodges all across the state are requesting dispensation
his wife, a Masonic couple on a motorcycle. for conducting one-day or short-of-time degree programs.
At this writing, we have approved 63 such requests with
Another incident occurred on a recent trip across a large number of candidates. Many Brothers who were
Alligator-Alley, which is Interstate 75 running from Miami adamantly opposed to the short-of-time program have
to Naples. One of our appointed Grand Lodge officers participated and contributed to making these successful
lost the serpentine belt on his late model Buick, leaving and meaningful experiences for the candidates. After
him stranded many miles from civilization — no all, the quality of individual candidates is no less than
civilization other than the many hundreds of automobiles for those who are initiated in the usual manner - in fact,
passing without stopping to assist. as everyone is aware, the candidates this year are
actually receiving almost everything they would in the
This Brother called the emergency assistance telephone traditional format. And, for the most part, they are
listed along this desolate stretch of Alligator Ally, and receiving the degrees in their own Lodge.
after over an hour it appeared there would be no help
from the Road Ranger Service. Finally, he located the Thank you, again, Brethren and friends of Freemasonry
telephone number of the Secretary of a Lodge in Naples, in the great state of Florida for the many successes that
some thirty miles away. That call was referred very we are experiencing.
quickly to a past master who is in the vehicle towing
business. With Fraternal love to all,

Again, a Brother Mason was assisted and helped out of James A. Durham
a rather difficult situation through the aid of several Grand Master
individuals with Masonic values and the inclination to
fulfill that part of their commitment to help, aid and assist. FM

My Brothers, it is indeed a pleasure to be in the position

to serve this wonderful body of great men and Masons.
There is much good work being accomplished throughout
our Grand Jurisdiction. We provide video taping for
young children as well as for the elderly who may be
prone to wander from home — just ask a Child ID
representative about this service.

Our charities include the Masonic Medical Research

Laboratory where many great things in the health field
are being accomplished. We also support the Masonic
Home of Florida and the many residents who have
elected to spend their remaining years in the loving hands
of Masonic residential care. Our work at the Masonic
Home also includes the First Lady’s project to replace
some of the public use furniture that will be more usable
by the residents. This project is proceeding quite well.

As we move into the second half of the 2002-2003 Grand

Lodge Year, the Fraternal Administrative Endowment
Program, i.e., FA-100, will be working to develop a
Commemorative Grand Lodge Booklet that will be
distributed at our annual Grand Lodge Communication
www.mmrl.edu
in May 2003. These efforts will benefit the Endowment

NOVEMber 2002 5 THE FLORIDA MASON

 We will also have a special section my brothers for you
CORPORATE BOARD ACTIONS/
and your lady to be sponsors by being a line signer to
PERPETUAL MEMBERSHIP RETURNS TO show your support of the Grand Lodge of Florida. By
PARTICULAR LODGES signing your name for only $10.00, you will go down in
history as the backbone of Freemasonry. Remember
TO: Worshipful Masters and Brethren only one name per signature box. (Note - do not sign as
DATE: September 30, 2002 Mr. & Mrs. John Doe or John & Mary Doe, this would
count as two signatures).
The Corporate Board has discussed at length the issues
relative to the annual return to Particular Lodges from Ads will be accepted from ALL MASONIC BODIES, Allied
the Perpetual Membership fund in January 2003. The and Appendant Orders, Individual Masons, Masonic
Corporate Board at its meeting on September 21, voted Material Suppliers and Selected Businesses.
to pay five percent (5%) of current value of the fund as
specified in the Digest of Masonic Law paragraph Pictures may be used in the ads, (Prefer Black & White
26.05.1(g), with the understanding that such payments Glossy) but will not be returned. All Ads, Art Work, and
will be coming from the perpetual membership fund. Photos must be Camera ready.

A survey was made of the members of the Jurisprudence Make Checks payable to: Grand Lodge of Florida,
Committee regarding this issue, and their overwhelming with the notation on the bottom of the check: 2003
recommendation, despite the downturn in overall Souvenir Convention Program.
investments, was to make the 5% payment as specified
in the Digest even if some base dollars would have to Mail Order Forms, Ads, Photo, Signature Sheets and
be used. Therefore, as noted above, the return will be Checks to:
five percent (5%) of fair market value as of the end of
December 2002. R:.W:. Daniel E. Date
Program Chairman
Sincerely and fraternally, 601 14th Ave. W.
James A. Durham Palmetto, FL 34221-4522
Grand Master E-mail: DnlEDl@aol.com
jdurham653@aol.com Tel: 941/729-1301
FM
Net profits from this Magazine will go to Fraternal
Administrative Endowment Fund.
SOUVENIR CONVENTION PROGRAM The Grand Master shall be the approving authority on
all Ads where there may be a
5 June 2002 question.

To All Brothers: PLEASE READ THIS LETTER AT ALL STATED

MEETING THROUGH FEBRUARY 2003.
My Brothers, Grand Lodge will be producing a Souvenir
Convention Program for our 2003 Grand Lodge Deadline for all Ads is 15 March 2003.
Convention. I know you will want to be part of
Freemasonry in Florida, here you can honor your lodge Attachment (next pages):
or a deserving brother with in your lodge, or remember Order Form
a brother who has served Freemasonry, by purchasing Signature Sheet
an Ad to show you care.
(approved for distribution by James A. Durham, Grand
The following Ad sizes are available for the listed prices: Master - 9/30/02)

Outside Front Cover - Unavailable FM

Outside Back Cover - $250.00
Inside Front & Back Cover - $200.00 each
Center Fold Pages - Unavailable
Full Page Ad - $160.00 (Size: 7-1/2 X 10)
1/2 Page Ad - $115.00 (Size: 7-1/4 X 5)
1/4 Page Ad - $75.00 (Size: 3-5/8 X 2-3/8)

NOVEMber 2002 6 THE FLORIDA MASON

 SOUVENIR CONVENTION PROGRAM

ORDER FORM

Name of Company, Organization or Person: ______________________________________________________

Address:________________________________________ _________ Phone #: _________________________

City: _______________________________________ State: __________ Zip Code: _____________________

E-mail address: _____________________________________________________________________________

Size Page Requested:

Outside Back Cover (if available) $250.00 __________ (Call for availability)

Inside Front Cover (if available) $200.00 (sold)

Inside Back Cover (if available) $200.00 __________ (Call for availability)

Full Page Ad $160.00 __________ (Size: 7-1/2 X 10)

1/2 Page Ad $115.00 __________ (Size: 7-1/4 X 5)

1/4 Page Ad $ 75.00 __________ (Size: 3-5/8 X 2-3/8)

Signatures (each) $ 10.00 __________

Total of check enclosed $___________

R:.W:. Daniel E. Dale

Program Chairman
601 14th Ave. W.
Palmetto, FL 34221-4522
Tel: 941/729-1301
E-mail: DnIEDl@aol.com

NOVEMber 2002 7 THE FLORIDA MASON

 SOUVENIR CONVENTION PROGRAM

Signatures for Grand Lodge of Florida 2002-2003

Yearbook @ $10 per line Contributions support the FA-100
R:.W:. Daniel E. Dale, Yearbook Chairman Fraternal Administrative Endowment Fund of
R:.W:.Charles F. Irle, State Chair, FA-100 The Grand Lodge of Florida

District _____ Zone _____ Make checks payable to Grand Lodge of Florida

1 2 3

NOVEMber 2002 8 THE FLORIDA MASON

 DOWN THE ROAD Sunday, November 17th
Grand Lodge Board of Trustees Meeting at the Masonic
Calendar of Events Home, St. Petersburg (11:00am-12:00pm).

Wednesday, November 20th

SunCoast Masters & Wardens Association meeting
(Districts 20 & 21) at Gulf Beach Lodge No. 291 in
Madiera Beach. For info, call Secretary R:.W:. Ron
McMillan at 727/539-1645 or flddgm97@mpinet.net .

Friday, November 22nd

GM’s official visit to Districts 1 & 2; Pensacola; 5:30pm.
For info, contact R:.W:. Johnny D. Gaither at 850/994-
0565 (H), 850/457-3364 (O), jdgp349@cs.com or R:.W:.
Keith A. Beaumont at 850/438-8272 (H), 850/983-9291
(O), zrxy2k@home.com

Saturday, November 23rd

For the Grand Master's Calendar, please see: GM’s official visit to District 34; Fort Walton Beach;
http://www.geocities.com/glfl2002/calendar.html 5:00pm. For info, contact R:.W:. John J. McDaniel at
or http://www.glflamason.org/ 850/651-6813, jmcda78448@cs.com

Sunday, December 15th

Thursday, November 7th Grand Lodge Board of Trustees Meeting at the Masonic
Outdoor MM Degree at Lake Worth Scottish Rite Center, Home, St. Petersburg (11:00am-12:00pm).
Lake Worth, FL at 6:00pm. For info, contact W:. Mike
Palmer, PM at 561/868-4890 (H) or 561/254-9770 (cell) Friday, December 27th
Sts. John Day
Friday, November 8th
GM’s official visit to Districts 31 & 32; Lake Worth;
5:30pm. For info, contact R:.W:. John G. Allen at 561/ Got an important date you want listed here? Send
433-8880, loggerhead@loggerheadcharters.com or your announcements to THE FLORIDA MASON ei-
R:.W:. Joel Case at 561/790-5124; 5:00pm Registration, ther through our web site at:
6:00pm Dinner
http://www.phmainstreet.com/flmason/
Saturday, November 9th
GM’s official visit to Districts 34 & 35; Miami; 5:30pm. Or e-mail it to timb001@attglobal.net
For info, contact R:.W:. Lester Berry at 941/722-0849,
305/256-0216 (H), 305/957-9573 (O), FM
kmbaccounting@msn.com or R:.W:. Bernard Silva at
305/264-9358, bsilva3731@aol.com .

Saturday, November 9th

50 Year Award Dinner for M:.W:. Richard F. Griffie, PGM
(1976) at Harbor City Lodge No. 318 F.& A.M., 5:00pm-
registration, 6:00pm-Dinner, 7:00pm Program. For info,
contact W:. Fred C. Baker at 321/723-4764 or
rbaker12@cfl.rr.com. See web page at:
http://www.geocities.com/hcl318/

Saturday, November 16th

The Hillsborough County Masters and Wardens
Association (Dists. 22 & 23) presents its 15th Annual
Outdoor Degree at 4:30pm at the Masonic Park and
Youth Camp, Tampa (on Highway 301 three miles south
of SR 674 and south of Sun City Center); http://
www.25.MasonFL.com/parkpage.htm
NOVEMber 2002 9 THE FLORIDA MASON
 NEWS FROM AROUND THE STATE

BIOGRAPHY

Born on August 13, 1948 in Paris, France, Prince Paul

is the son of HRH Carol Mircea of Romania and of
Helena Henriette Nagavitzine. His father is the first
born son of King Carol II of Romania from his first
marriage to Princess Ioana Valentina Lambrino.
Bro. Prince Paul, RW Hueting & RW Lupion
HRH Prince Paul studied in France under the tutelage
THE MAN WHO WOULD BE KING of the Jesuits and later graduated from Millfield
PRINCE PAUL OF ROMANIA IS MADE College in Somerset, England. After he finished his
A FLORIDA MASTER MASON studies he launched a successful business career.

Hillsborough Lodge No. 25 F.& A.M. is very proud to Between 1979 - 1981 he became President of “Dolphin
announce that one of their members is now His Royal Art Inc.” located in Washington, D.C. During the past
Highness Prince Paul of Romania years, Prince Paul has resided and has business
interests in London, Paris, Madrid, Lisbon,
Prince Paul, or now Brother Paul, was raised on Saturday Washington, New York, Lima, Peru and New Delhi,
October 5, 2002 at Temple Terrace Lodge No. 330 as a India. In 1981, Prince Paul wrote a best-selling
courtesy to Hillsborough Lodge. M:.W:. Jim Durham, biography on his grandfather, HM King Carol II. The
our Grand Master, had a previous commitment and was book covers the period between the two great wars.
unable to be present, however, per his request, his During the last days of the Revolution, he came to
representative R:.W:. Ron Lupion, DDGM of the 22nd Romania for the first time on a flight organized by
Masonic District, on behalf of our Grand Master, raised Marc Burca, a descendant of the statesman, N.
him. Titulescu, a humanitarian airlift filled with desperately
needed foodstuffs and supplies as well as press.
H.R.H Prince Paul and his wife Princess Leila were Prince Paul was invited and became the first member
received by the Worshipful Master of Hillsborough Lodge of The Romanian Royal Family to come back to
No 25, W:. Ed Martin and the Secretary, R:.W:. Fred Romania.
Hueting. During the presentation of the degrees,
Princess Leila was entertained by Audrey Lupion, Pat Prince Paul stayed in his country and established The
Martin and Cora Hueting, and received a Royal welcome Prince Paul Foundation for Romania, which has been
and was very pleasant surprised by the reception and named one of the major success stories of Eastern
courtesies by which she was recognized. Europe. In 1995, he married Lia Triff, an American
women of Romanian origin. His Romanian citizenship
Brother Paul, who is stated to be the next King of was obtained one year later. Prince Paul is a Fellow
Romania has applied for a perpetual membership, was of “The Royal Geographic Society” (U.K.). He was
most grateful and very impressed by which the degrees also awarded the Leadership Award by the President
were presented, he is presently receiving additional of the Rotary Club International.
instruction and information from R:.W:. Fred Hueting.
His Royal Highness’ priorities are to promote foreign
Brother Paul was most impressed with our system as investments to Romania through the business and
well as our Masonic Home operation. During the cocktail political relationships that he has abroad, to create
party at the house of the Secretary, at which time he new jobs and business opportunities, to preserve
was able to loosen his tie, he indicated his pleasure as Romanian traditions and the national patrimony by
well as the cooperation and courtesies he has received restoring churches, monasteries, monuments and art
from every person who was involved with the process of works, to create a new image of the Romanian
the application, security and the manner each person peoples’ potential.
worked without making waves.
- R:.W:. Fred W. Hueting, PDDGM source: Prince Paul of Romania
tampa25@gte.net http://www.princepaulofromania.com/
FM
NOVEMber 2002 10 THE FLORIDA MASON
 Inside the fort just before the degree. R:.W:. Danny Fullwood, PDDGM (left) congratulates the new MM
Brothers: Orlando Jose Avila & Adam David Salsburg.
W:. Fred K. Lindes (right) is Worshipful Master of Amelia Lodge

AMELIA LODGE HOLDS GEORGE W. CALL The park has a very well preserved Civil War era fort
CIVIL WAR-ERA DEGREE with a long and storied history. The structure served
during the Civil War, Spanish-American War, and World
FERNANDINA BEACH, FL (October 12, 2002) - Amelia War II. Many of the fort’s structures were rebuilt and
Lodge No. 47 F.& A.M. (http://www.mastermason.com/ repaired by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the
amelia/) held their annual “George W. Call Master Mason 1930s as part of the public works program enacted by
Degree” in historic Ft. Clinch in full Civil War era military President & Brother Franklin Delano Roosevelt (Holland
uniforms. The special degree is performed only once a Lodge No. 8 A.F.& A.M., New York). The coastline along
year by Brothers from Amelia Lodge. George W. Call the Cumberland Sound, where the fort is located, has
was the first Worshipful Master of Amelia Lodge and the remnants of many buildings scattered along its beach.
died in the Civil War. Some of these were associated with the fort and later
the caretaker residence after the fort was abandoned.
Ft. Clinch is located near picturesque Amelia Island (just Another remnant is a brick fireplace that can be seen
north of Jacksonville), and is laid out in accordance with when the sand level allows. This fireplace is assumed
a Masonic Lodge. The fort was built during the Civil to be all that is left of a beacon house that was situated
War and changed hands a couple of times during the on the sound. An attached light beacon helped ships
war by Union and Confederate troops. Consequently, navigate the entrance into the St. Mary’s/Amelia River.
the MM degree was performed in both Northern and Along the park drive is the masonry structure believed
Southern uniforms. to have been the oil storage house for another beacon
located near there. These two beacons, the one on the
The degree team was headed by R:.W:. Danny Fullwood, Cumberland Sound and the one on the park drive, were
PDDGM who sat in the east. Raised to the sublime used to line up with larger Amelia Island Lighthouse when
degree of Master Mason were Brothers Orlando Jose ships were coming into the channel to visit the port of
Avila & Adam David Salsburg. Fernandina.

The weather for the degree was beautiful with a cool W:. Fred K. Lindes and the Brothers of Amelia Lodge
and comfortable breeze coming off the ocean and stars are to be congratulated for their superb hospitality and
overhead. This event was open to Master Masons only first class degree work.
and more than 100 Masons were on hand for the degree
including Brothers from around the Jacksonville area, - Tim Bryce
southern Georgia, Mississippi, and Tampa Bay (the FM
Masonic Adventures entourage).

Prior to the degree, Amelia Lodge hosted a good old

fashioned shrimp boil that was simply delicious.

Fort Clinch State Park, one of the oldest parks in the

Florida park system, was acquired in September 1935.
The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) was responsible
for some of the initial development of the park.
The fort is located near Amelia Island; just north of Jacksonville.

NOVEMber 2002 11 THE FLORIDA MASON

 Steve Morris sinks the winning putt. Brothers pose in front of their sponsorship signs.

SUNCOAST GOLF TOURNY GENERATES

MONEY FOR CHARITY

CLEARWATER, FL (September 21, 2002) - Brothers “This was a win-win situation all the way around,” said
from the 20th & 21st Masonic Districts gathered to Tournament Director W:. Rick Hoover, PM, DI. “We
participate in the First Annual Golf Tournament of the enjoyed some good old-fashioned Brotherhood as well
SunCoast Masters & Wardens Association at the Airco as generating money for charity.” .
Golf Club in Clearwater. 36 golfers from Lodges
throughout Pinellas County participated. The event Hoover was quick to thank those Brothers assisting in
produced $1,500 for charity, specifically, the Masonic preparations and judging the various contests, including:
Home in St. Petersburg and the Association’s Scholarship
Fund. In addition to playing fees, District Lodges and W:. CD Kennedy, PM, and President of the Suncoast
individuals sponsored holes in the course. Masters & Wardens Association

The following people took away trophies from the event: R:.W:. J. Paul Stellrecht, DDGM/21 from Star Lodge
No. 78 F.& A.M.
1st Place Team
Cal McGann, Mike Rowe, Jason Scanga, Greg Campbell W:. David Henderson, Master of Nitram Lodge No. 188
F.& A.M.
2nd Place Team
Sam Buck, Jack Beckwith, John Girard, Gary Jones W:. John Denehan, Master of Gulf Beach Lodge No.
291 F.& A.M.
3rd Place Team
R:.W:. David Jones, PDDGM, R:.W:. Tom Cox, PDDGM, - Tim Bryce
Danny Fisher FM

Longest Drive
Sam Buck - Northside Lodge No. 283 F.& A.M.

Closest to the Pin

W:. Jim Clouser, PM - Star Lodge No. 78 F.& A.M.

Putting Contest
Steve Morris - Gulf Beach Lodge No. 291 F.& A.M.

Following the tournament, the group retired to the

Sneaky’s Sports Bar in Largo for a banquet and to present
the various awards.

NOVEMber 2002 12 THE FLORIDA MASON

 From left to right. Fla. State High Twelve 3rd VP Merv Harris and
his Lady Patricia. Tri County High Twelve Masonic Representative
Tom Wright and 1st VP Bob Parker and his Lady Gerry prepare
monthly dinners at Leesburg Masonic Lodge No. 58. Brother Tom’s
Lady Bev is recovering from surgery and was unable to be there
when the picture was taken.

SUNDAY DINNERS AT LEESBURG LODGE MID-FLORIDA LAKES HIGH TWELVE CLUB

LEESBURG, FLORIDA
Merv Harris, Florida State High Twelve Association 3rd President Darrell Miller of the Mid-Florida Lakes High
Vice President and his Lady Patricia. Bob Parker 1st Twelve Club No. 522 presents a certificate and check to
Vice President Tri County High Twelve and his Lady the first 2002-2003 Teacher Grant Program winner (see
Gerry. And Tri County High Twelve Masonic photo below). Please meet Mrs. Dana Genesi, Pre-K
Representative Tom Wright and his Lady Bev, have been teacher at Treadway Elementary School near Leesburg.
preparing the Sunday Dinners at Leesburg Lodge for She is the first of eight recipients this school year to
nearly three years. All three Nobles also belong to Lake receive a one hundred dollar grant for use in educating
County Shrine Club in Tavares. Noble Merv is President her pre-kindergarten children. Mrs. Genesi is the
of the club and Noble Tom is on the Board of Directors. September winner. A big High Twelve and Freemason
congratulations to Dana.
On the third Sunday of each month except June, July
and August, these three Brothers and their Ladies A written agreement with proposed guidelines were
prepare the Sunday Dinners to the delight of Lodge and submitted to the school for their information. After a
High Twelve members and their family and friends. meeting with the school principal, facility and the club
When the “Kitchen Krew” start the meals each committee consisting of Floyd Cogley and Richard Davis,
September they have about seventy-five people attend. both retired school administrators, the program was put
During the remainder of the year approximately two into motion. A committee of three receives the requests
hundred people enjoy the “Krew’s” fine cooking at the and makes a determination of which is to be considered.
dinners. The menu varies from Roast Pork or Beef to From those considered, one is selected and awarded
Baked or Sweet and Sour Chicken. Ham dinners are the grant each month of the school year. Those rejected
also a great favorite and the “Krew” will even throw in a may resubmit their request again for consideration but
special dinner every now and then. Other meals enjoyed they are not held over.
by all are Kalbasa and Sauerkraut or Corned Beef and
Cabbage. Pat Harris usually makes the desserts for each One of the basic principles of High Twelve is the
meal. Those attending dinner enjoy her Lemon Pie best, “encouragement and promotion of the Public School
however she never has any complaints with any of the System.”
other pies or cakes she prepares.
If any Lodge, Club or group would be interested in viewing
The “Krew” prepared a meal in September for 250 plus the contents of the grant program they should contact;
Masons and their Ladies at the Grand Master’s Official J.R. Satterthwaite at 106 Sterling Way in Leesburg, FL
visit to the 18th Masonic District. A delicious Pork Loin 34788-2792, jrsatt@comcast.net
Dinner was served. The function was held at the FM
Leesburg Masonic Lodge under the direction of R.W.
Ken Graves, District Deputy Grand Master for the 18th
Masonic District, and also Past President of Lake County
Shrine Club.

Anyone interested in attending the Sunday Dinners at

Leesburg Masonic Lodge are asked to call the Secretary
at 352/787-5696 for reservations. Cost of the meal is
$6.00 per person.
FM

NOVEMber 2002 13 THE FLORIDA MASON

 STARKE SHRINE CLUB TAKING
CHALLENGES FOR THE OPPORTUNITY
FOR WALKING TALL

Martha Mohn (left) John C. Denehan (Master of Gulf Beach Lodge) The Shrine activities for months of August through
November 2002 are allowing the Starke Shrine Club
MARTHA MOHN OF SEMINOLE RECEIVES many challenges that we believe give us the opportunity
for greatness. We improved as a club last year and that
MEMORIAL CERTIFICATE
momentum established in President Herb Reinheimer’s
year is still going for Morris Mahoney’s year as Club
Martha Mohn, owner of Mohn Funeral Home in Seminole
President. We are stretched, but we have met the
and Past Worthy Matron of the Gulf Beach Chapter No.
challenges thus far!
241 Order of Eastern Star, was presented a Memorial
Certificate and pin honoring her late husband Lewis W.
Two Shriners were discussing the challenge of walking
Mohn who passed away on September 14, 2002 at
with the Sultans in the Starke Shrine Club Bathroom
Morton Plant Hospital. The presentation was made by
following the Fall Festival Parade September 7, 2002.
John C. Denehan, Worshipful Master of Gulf Beach
One Sultan was saying that each year the physical
Masonic Lodge No. 291 F.& A.M.
exertion gets more challenging as he gets older. He
told me that he was 81 years young this year. His
Lewis Mohn was a 55 year member of Gulf Beach
fraternal Sultan came back with the fact that he had just
Masonic Lodge in Madeira Beach as well as Past Patron
turned 85 this year and was still an active participant in
of Gulf Beach Chapter No. 241 Order of Eastern Star,
the Shrine parades. My remark to both of them was that
Masonic T. Club, Boca Ciega Scottish Rite Club, J. Edwin
I was going to be 60 years young next year and that I
Larsen White Shrine, Scottish Rite Valley of Tampa,
hoped that I would be in half as good physical and mental
Seminole Shrine Club, Tri-City Shrine Club, Seminole
shape as they were in when and if I was so fortunate to
Hi-Twelve and a Shriner. Lewis Mohn was a great
reach their ages. I told them that their active life-styles
supporter of the Masonic fraternity and its appendant
must be the secret for their excellent condition. They
and allied orders. His love for the fraternity was apparent
both looked like they were in their 60’s.
and he will be sorely missed amongst his brothers.
Friday evening, September 6, 2002, we held our regular
The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted
Starke Shrine Club Meeting. Competition with the York
Masons of Florida prepared a widow’s certificate and
Rite and the Grand Master of Free and Accepted Masons
pin which was presented to Martha Mohn as a memorial
Official Visit to the 13 Masonic District kept our
to her late husband and his activity as a Mason. This
attendance down, but we still had plenty of good food,
certificate also serves as an outward show of appreciation
members and quests. First time visitors included Noble
for the many years of service Lewis Mohn gave to the
Willie Busby’s wife, Bernice Busby and Corrine Bryant
fraternity.
from Union County.
Lewis W. Mohn became a Mason in 1947 at Wooster,
Saturday, September 7, 2002, were the Starke Fall
Ohio and joined Gulf Beach Lodge in 1952. Brother
Festival, Shrine Parade, and spaghetti dinner. The
Mohn was also very active in the community where he
morning began with donuts and hot coffee as we lined
was a member of the Seminole Elks Lodge 2519,
up the cookers, food, utensils and paper products. Clark
Seminole American Legion Post 273, VFW Post 9272,
and Shirley Manser, Jimmy Wilson, Freddie and Linda
Seminole Republican Club, Kiwanis, and the Seminole
Magyari, Martha Epps, Ted Barber, and Richard Dipalo
Lions Club. He was instrumental in forming the Seminole
got the ball rolling. Our own Illustrious David Newton,
Volunteer Fire Department and assisted in founding the
came into the Starke Shrine Club Kitchen to observe
City of Seminole.
the work activity!
- W:. Bro. Howard Knapp, PM, PDI
Willie Busby, Mark and Julia Griffith,Morris and Mary
(hwknapp@tampabay.rr.com),
Mahoney, Clark Manser, Jerry Ingle and Robert Clayton
District 21 Chairman, Publicity & Public Relations.
(continued on page 15)
FM
NOVEMber 2002 14 THE FLORIDA MASON
STARKE SHRINE (continued from page 14) home for a delicious fish fry luncheon. Show time was
9:30 AM and the vehicles (dunebuggys, trikes,
got the Starke Shrine Club’s downtown food booth into motorcycles, and other roadworthy vehicles) were
operation. What a crowd of hungry people gathered! released for a 64-mile fun-filled trip at 10:00 AM in 2-
minute increments. I must say that the Rally Instructions
Both locations experienced such an intense demand for were difficult to figure out. My wife Lila and my navigator
spaghetti dinners that the cookers could hardly keep up. misinterpreted one of the instructions that took us into
The hungry people kept coming. It seemed like we would the State of Georgia. I really felt better when I saw at
never see the end of the line. least four other rally participants come across the Florida
State line!
Mel Reed and Libby Miller kept the Oasis in high gear
as the heat of the day drove the many thirsty Shriners When we got back to the Harvey’s home, we were treated
and guests to the “watering hole.” Jimmy Epps was the to a fantastic cover dish and fish fry that put the “icing
Club’s “meet and greeter” and the “trashman.” Amy on the cake!” Not only did we have a wonderful time,
Anderson was the “Jill of all trades”- especially for but also we showed the residents of Baker County that
cleaning the pots and pans. Martha Epps and Linda Shriners enjoy their activities. Who knows, maybe we
Dipalo kept track of the dinner tickets and money will find a few more members for our fraternity as a result
donations for the spaghetti dinners at the clubhouse. of that fun day.

At 11:00 AM we lined up for the Shrine Parade. Jack We are now looking forward to the Ha Hiram Parade in
Seelig had the honor of driving the Parade Marshall, Georgia, Saturday, October 5, 2002, a non sanctioned
Shay Anderson, and a local Shrine Hospital Child from Veterans Day Parade at Northeast Florida State Hospital,
Lawtey, Florida. Noble Jack’s beautiful 1931 Ford 9:00 AM, Thursday, October 24, 2002, the Ocala “Hot
roadster’s rumble seat allowed Shay to wave Old Glory Sands” Parade, October 226, 2002 and the Veterans Day
as she smiled at the spectators. Chuck Miller, Jerry parade in Lake Butler, Monday, November 11, 2002.
Walden, Ted Barber, Gerry Anderson, Richard Dipalo,
Jimmy Epps, and Sweed Larsen formed our parade unit Needless to say, we have a full plate, but the challenges
for the Starke Shrine Club. make our Starke Shrine Club stronger. We thank all of
you for your support and look forward to extending our
After the parade, we honored our Illustrious Potentate support to you in any way that we can. We will continue
with a perpetual membership to the Starke Shrine Club to walk tall for the Shrine Children Hospitals and take on
and a sizable check for the Shrine Children Hospitals. the many challenges that gives us the opportunity for
The crowd at the Starke Shrine Clubhouse was fantastic walking tall.
and the assembly of Shriners, our families and friends
was enjoyed by all. - Ted Barber
tedbrb@aol.com
We turned in our Eagle Country, 106.3 FM radio
advertisement donations to Chuck Miller on August 28, FM
2002. Chuck Kramer had plenty of time to line up the
many businesses and individuals that gave their support
to the Shrine Children Hospitals. Chuck Miller, Mel Reed,
Ted Barber, Herb Reinheimer, and Sweed Larsen
provided the advertisements to Chuck Kramer for him
to give a word of thanks and to spread the word about
the Starke Fall Festival, Shrine Parade, and spaghetti
dinners to help the Shrine Children Hospitals. We want
to give a special “thank you” to Chuck Kramer, Eagle
Country 106.3, Janet Presley’s donation of paper
products, and to all the Shriners, their families, friends
and all the many spectators who supported the fun filled
Starke Fall Festival, Parade, and Spaghetti fund raiser.

Speaking of fun, Ed and Brenda Harvey sponsored a

Baker County “Road Rally” and fish fry luncheon that
started from the Harvey’s home in Macclenny, Florida
on Saturday, August 24, 2002, and ended at the Harvey’s

NOVEMber 2002 15 THE FLORIDA MASON

 This was a memorable evening for the DDGM Ken
Graves; 18th District members; the Masonic fraternity;
and Youth Group members attending the function. It is
a real pleasure being a part of such a great fraternity.

- Merv Harris
3rd VP, Florida State High 12 Association

“Kitchen Krew” members and their ladies prepared and served a delicious
FM
dinner when Most Worshipful James A. Durham, Grand Master of
Masons of Florida visited the 18th Masonic District.

GRAND MASTER VISITS

18TH MASONIC DISTRICT

On Saturday, September 28, 2002, The Grand Master

of Masons of Florida M:.W:. James A. Durham and his
Lady visited the 18th Masonic District. There were 250
plus members and ladies in attendance.

District Deputy Grand Master R:.W:. Kenneth Graves

requested that Past Master Merv Harris and his Lady
Pat and their “Kitchen Krew” prepare the dinner and also
do the decorating for the evening. Lady Pat did an
excellent job in decorating in Red, White and Blue and
the dining room looked magnificent.

Merv’s “Kitchen Krew” is made up of High Twelve State

and club officers, Lake County Shrine officers, and
members of Leesburg Masonic Lodge, and their Ladies.
In addition to Merv, who is 3rd State Vice President for
High 12 and President of Lake County Shrine Club, he
is also Past Master of Leesburg Masonic Lodge No. 58.
“Krew” members are the President of the State High 12
Association Jim Satterthwaite and his Lady Naomi, Tri
County High 12 club 1st Vice President Bob Parker and
his Lady Gerry, and Lake County Shrine Assistant
Treasurer and Tri County High 12 member Bill Bailey BRANDON PAST MASTER KNOCKS
and his Lady Lori. Also assisting were Angela Brown, DOWN A MARLIN
Anna Gbula, Carolyn Browning and Pat Lightner, all
Ladies of Leesburg Lodge members. This is a picture of W:. George W. Reese III, PM who
was Master of Brandon Lodge No. 114 F.& A.M. in 1993.
Those attending the dinner reported that the food was
delicious, hot and served very quickly. Mount Dora Worshipful Reese, his sister, Rose Gobbel and her
Rainbow Girls and their Advisors served the meals. husband, Jay Gobbel battled with the Blue Marlin, which
These lovely young ladies really did an outstanding job weighed 770 pounds, on an 80 pound test line at 7:30
and should be congratulated for their hard work and a.m. on September 19, 2002 off Cabo San Lucas in
dedication. Mexico. It took six hours to wear out this fish.

Several awards were presented after dinner and Lodge - W:. Barry McAuley, PM
members and guests made presentations to the Grand Brandon Lodge No. 114 F.& A.M.
Master. A tiled meeting was held with maximum http://www.brandonlodge.org/
attendance. Scm1101@aol.com
FM

NOVEMber 2002 16 THE FLORIDA MASON

 ALPHA LODGE NO. 172 SPONSORS
MOZART PIANO COMPETITION

FORT WALTON BEACH, FL (October 12, 2002) - Alpha

Lodge No. 172 F.& A.M. (District 3) brought together 59
young local artists to compete in a Mozart Piano
Competition. The event was held at the Playground
Music Center, who donated their recital hall and grand
piano free of charge. The competition was co-sponsored
by the Okaloosa County Music Teacher’s Association
who worked side by side with the Alpha Lodge Piano
Competition Committee to make the event a success.
Four age groups (8-10, 11-13, 14-15, and 16-18)
competed for 1st prize awards of $500, $200, $100, and
$50, which will be awarded at the Masonic Widow’s Night Group picture of Joint Mozart Piano Competition
Dinner on October 19, 2002. Three professional music Committee (Alpha Lodge = Alpha Masonic Lodge #172,
judges were brought in from outside the local area to F&AM. OCMTA= Okaloosa County Music Teachers
adjudicate. The contest honored our Brother Wolfgang Association
Amadeus Mozart and our talented music students. The
piano competition was very well received by the local Top row, left to right:
community. While Alpha Lodge has traditionally David Gaillard, Alpha Lodge; Ben Gaillard, Alpha Lodge;
supported youth sports activities and provided academic Gene Barnes, Alpha Lodge; Helen Dingus, OCMTA
scholarships, this was our way to show the local
community Freemasonry also supports the fine arts and Bottom row, left to right:
encourages young artists to develop their talents. We Susan Gaillard; Julia Sublette, OCMTA; Tony Frangioni,
invite other Lodges/Districts to establish similar programs Alpha Lodge; Dorothy Frangioni; Ilma Mohacsy, OCMTA;
and will provide guidance and assistance to any Masonic Betty Najarian, OCMTA. Not shown: Betty Madden,
group with an interest. For further information contact OCMTA
W:. Gene Barnes (helgen2@cox.net)
- W:. Gene Barnes
Worshipful Master
Alpha Lodge No. 172 F.& A.M.
helgen2@cox.net

FM

Winners at Elementary level: (Minuet in F Major, K.2)

with W:. Gene Barnes, Alpha Lodge No. 172 F.& A.M.:
Ben Johnson, Niceville, Honorable Mention
Stephanie Hsiang, Niceville, Honorable Mention
Olivia Strom, Fort Walton Beach, 1st prize ($50.00 prize)
Rebecca Gunger, Niceville, Honorable Mention

NOVEMber 2002 17 THE FLORIDA MASON

 • Larry Wymore
• G. Edmund Wallace *
• Celal Ozkan (courtesy to GL of Turkey)

* At 94 years young; possibly the oldest raised Mason in

Florida.

Also participating was Sutherland Lodge No. 174 in Palm

Harbor who, although didn’t raise any Brothers of their
own, assisted with the degree work on a courtesy basis.

R:.W:. Gerald M. (Jerry) Lee, DDGM/20, racing between

the various degrees said, “This was a strong and positive
sign of cooperation between the Lodges in the District.
New East Gate Lodge Master Masons: Schultz, Dunlap, and Coquelet
The degree work was superb. The Brotherhood was
- Three of 25 raised in District 20 fantastic. Hopefully, we can all build on this.”

DISTRICT 20 RAISES 25 MASONS IN - Tim Bryce

FM
ONE WEEK

District 20 (northern Pinellas County) recently raised a

whopping 25 Master Masons in one week under the quick-
time program authorized by the Grand Master, M:.W:.
James A. Durham. In one week in October, Lodges
throughout District 20 raised the following Brothers:

Tampa Bay Lodge No. 252 - W:. Bruce Moir - Master

• Brent Baldwin
• Timothy W. Broom
• Thomas G. Deegan
• Stephen C. Gordon
• William J. Halasyn
• Michael T. Rhoades
• Christopher Wright
• Matthew W. Wright
• Arthur C. Zinkerman
• Randall G. Dixon (courtesy for East Gate Lodge)

Tarpon Lodge No. 112 - W:. Jerry Puigdomenich - Master

• Richard John Bracker HARBOR CITY LODGE HOLDS TABLE
• Horace Alan Langston LODGE WITH M:.W:. JAMES A. DURHAM
• Drew Martin Willard
MELBOURNE, FL (October 22, 2002) - The members
East Gate No. 355 - W:. Artsen Bayandrian - Master of Harbor City Lodge No. 318 held their annual Table
• Eduardo Coquelet lodge on October 22nd in Melbourne. The Grand Master,
• Michael Dunlap M:.W:. James A. Durham and Senior Grand Warden
• Georg Schultz R:.W:.C. Edward Gonzalez were in attendance. 90
members from District 26 enjoyed a great roast beef
Clearwater Lodge No. 127 - W:. Mel Hinkley - Master and chicken dinner, then the Grand Master gave an
• Stephen Ash outstanding oration. Lodge was closed at 9pm.
• Chris Cooper
• Robert Davis For more information on this announcement, please
• Richard Kastel contact W:. Fred C. Baker at 321/723-4764; E-Mail:
• Thomas Meachum rbaker12@cfl.rr.com or http://www.geocities.com/hcl318
• Michael Peasley FM

NOVEMber 2002 18 THE FLORIDA MASON

 RUSTY MASON VIII ANOTHER SUCCESS!

SARASOTA, FL (October 16, 2002) - approximately

105 Masons gathered at Sahib Shrine Center to celebrate
the 8th Annual Sahib Freemasonry Reunion and Rusty
Mason Class. The attendance was exactly the same as
last year! By all accounts, the event was another
success. All of the Brothers shared in the great night of
fellowship and brotherly love for those seeking yet more
light in Masonry. This year we offered an brand new
format, with much more of a theatrical flavor, and
everyone felt the program was much better.

Again, our Brothers crowded, with emotional anticipation,

around the worthy instructors that offered personal
DEPUTY GRAND MASTER LECTURES instructions on the Masonic Degrees, the Grips and
FELLOWCRAFT Words and the Due Guards and Signs. As usual,
emotions of days long ago, flowed from brothers that
MacCLENNY, FL (September 25, 2002) - R:.W:. John were anxious to re-live instructions that many had not
R. Givens , Deputy Grand Master, gave the Fellowcraft participated in for 50 or more years, in some cases.
lecture for two newly passed Fellowcraft Brothers at at
Dawkins Lodge No. 60 F.& A.M. Pictured is FC Brother A Special Thanks to our Guest Speaker:
Jere Cook of Pinehill Lodge No. 9 F.& A.M.; R:.W:. John
R. Givens, Deputy Grand Master, and FC Brother Kelly
Scott of Dawkins Lodge No. 60 F.& A.M. Brother Scott is
the son of R:.W:. Lawrence Scott, PDDGM. R:.W:. Scott
is also the Personal Secretary for R:.W:. John R. Giv-
ens. There were many Brothers in attendance and the
10th Masonic District Degree Team took part in the De-
gree.
- R:.W:. Bob Holder
DDGM, District 10
Pinehill Lodge No. 9 F.& A.M.
FM

BIAS - BY-US (continued from page 23)

lodges, the young, the manhood, and especially the se- M:.W:. David A. Eschrich, 33
nior citizens to talk Masonry. We should target a training Past Grand Master of Florida (1990)
program that makes use of our Masonic citizens experi- Personal Representative of the
ence and wisdom to promote our Masonic society. Sovereign Grand Inspector General
in the Valley of Tampa.
The keystone to the Masonic arch of prosperity is the
education and training of its members. Training that will - Gary Schweinshaupt
take advantage of our Masonic way of life, opinions and http://sahibshrine.org/
biases. Training that will allow our members to verbally
explain to the citizens of the world those Masonic virtues FM
of friendship, morality and brotherly love. All Masons
should learn how to select their replacement. Who bet-
ter to judge and select the best, than the best, a Mason.
"There is nothing wrong with Masonry today," we just
need to teach our members how to sell it, and trust them
to judge to who and when.
FM

NOVEMber 2002 19 THE FLORIDA MASON

 MASONIC EDUCATION Today, we initiate new Brothers, guide them through the
degrees and the catechisms, then we see them no more.
“BACK TO BASICS” Why? Is it because he found out he did not like Masonry?
Is it because he did not like the Lodge? Or is it because
Why did we stray from the Basic Concepts of we have failed him? We did not light the fire of desire,
Freemasonry? Why is Masonry not sought after with a dedication and understanding of Masonry in him? Did
strong desire by the uninitiated? Why can’t we get better we receive him properly when he attended his first
attendance at Lodge? What can we do to answer these meetings? Did we really make him feel he was accepted
questions and improve Freemasonry today? with genuine Friendship and Brotherly Love toward him?
Or did we just ignore him when he came in and let him
I can only offer my thoughts. I believe that during and stand alone or sit there alone in the corner?
after the big war of the 1940’s, many applicants were
received by lodges due to the close association of men Did we teach him properly? Did we impress upon him
in uniform. New Lodges were formed to accommodate how important the Rituals and the Catechisms are? Or
these new Brothers. Camaraderie continued from the did we rapidly pass him through, assuring him that even
military service to civilian life. Lodges grew with excellent though he did not know the work fully, that he should not
attendance. This continued through the 1950’s and into worry about it. He was assured he would be advanced
the 1960’s. Then, other problems surfaced to the to the next degree. After great anticipation and anxiety
forefront. Attention was centered on the political situation during the first steps in Masonry, then finding that learning
and Vietnam. The Civil Rights Movement was beginning the work properly was incidental, did he lose a little of
to steal the headlines. A President was assassinated. his desire and belief? Then, after being raised to the
A Civil Rights leader was assassinated. The slain Sublime Degree of Master Mason, he was told how
President’s brother, a candidate for the Presidency, was important it was for him to attend Lodge. He attended,
also assassinated. The country was in turmoil. Older but found it difficult to sit through the opening and closing
Masons were staying home from Lodge or diverting their Rituals as he had no idea what they were doing. Being
attention elsewhere. Applications for membership hurriedly advanced and not taught properly, he soon finds
declined. Lodges began to experience financial himself bored. Then he finds many excuses not to attend
difficulties. Lodge.

In an attempt to preserve their Charters, many Lodges We, sitting in lodge, cannot understand why our newly
began to merge or consolidate during the Seventies and raised Brothers do not attend Lodge. We blame
Eighties. Some Lodges gave up their Charters and everything but ourselves. We sit and watch a degree
closed. Many Brothers from the previous era long since performed, seeing how ill-prepared some degree teams
stopped coming to Lodge. Every effort was made to try are and then we tell the new Brother that it was a beautiful
and get the Brothers to return to Lodge. Rides were degree. We congratulate the Degree Team for work well
offered. Personal pleadings were made. A few returned, done. We sit and hear a proficiency full of errors. It is
but it was only a temporary return. Many Brothers had obvious the new Brother was not prepared properly. The
lost the incentive and motivation to continue on in instructor although very dedicated, has failed in his task.
Masonry. We then vote approval and allow the Brother to progress
upward.
New applicants were hurried through their degrees. They
progressed very rapidly through the degrees. Then, when The new Brother, knowing he made mistakes, begins to
they attended Lodge, they could not understand the have doubts about the seriousness of the Catechism and
rituals of opening and closing. They had no idea what Masonry Rituals. If he committed so many errors, and
was going on. They had no understanding of Masonry. he knows he has, and we vote to advance him further,
They were totally lost. They began to stay away, and how can we believe the seriousness of the Rituals of
each time they stayed away from Lodge, it became easier Masonry? What values can be he place on the secrets
to stay away the next time. They sent in their dues as he has learned? What values will he place on his
requested, but they never came back to Lodge to attend obligation? He knew he was not prepared but he was
any function or meeting. Many potential good Masons approved and praised highly. We now have a Brother
were lost. Of course, there were also many who who was cheated out of his first steps in Masonry. The
continued on in Lodge, attending, learning, and steps that will make him a true and dedicated Mason.
participating in all events. They are here today and we He had an instructor, who, although very loyal and
have them to thank for ensuring that Masonry is still dedicated to Masonry, failed him. We have a Brother
alive and well in Florida. who has shown Masonry is not as important as he
expected. (continued on page 22)

NOVEMber 2002 20 THE FLORIDA MASON

 WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU STOP THE OLD MASTERS WAGES
PAYING YOUR DUES? by Neil Neddermeyer-1979

Who among us really knows what tomorrow will bring? I meet a dear old man today
This is a very important question every Masonic Member Who wore a Masonic pin,
must consider before they drop out and stop paying their It was old and faded like the man
dues. My Brothers, have you carefully thought out what Its edges were worn quite thin.
you are doing to your wife and yourself when you stop
paying your dues? Where in the world can you get the I approached the park bench where he sat
privilege, after all other requirements are met, for life To give the old brother his do
care for $50.00 a year. That kind of guarantee is I said, “I see you’ve traveled east”
impossible to beat. I hope you never have to call on this He said, “I have, have you?”
privilege, but it is a wonderful feeling to know that it is
there. I said, I have and in my day
Before the all seeing sun
Furthermore, if you never need the Home, you are I played in the rubble with Jubala
making it possible to keep it going for some other worthy Jubilo, and Jubalum.
distressed Brother or his wife, if they are in good standing
and if they need it. Have you ever visited the Masonic He shouted, don’t laugh at the work my son
Home to see what a wonderful place you represent and It’s good and sweet and true
own? Yes, in a sense, we all own it and the Grand Lodge And if you’ve traveled as you said,
manages it. Who is Grand Lodge? Well, we are, you You should give these things a due.
are, so why not take a look at what you own and find out
how you can help, support and maintain it for your The word, the sign, the token,
possible home in the autumn of your life, while you grow The sweet Masonic prayer,
old gracefully and with dignity, while receiving tender, The vow that all have taken
loving care. Who have climbed the inner stair.

Keep in mind if you will, when you stop paying your dues, The wages of a Mason
you have just cancelled your wife’s privilege of having are never paid in gold
the Home for herself, if she needs it. You might be but the gain comes from contentment
surprised how many wives have needed it after meeting when you’re weak and growing old.
all other requirements. I did not plan to come to the
Home. It just happened. But I was a Perpetual Member You see I’ve carried my obligations
and I was in good standing with paid up dues. My wife For almost fifty years
had a stroke and after six and a half years of trying to It has helped me through the hardships
take care of her, I brought her as well as myself to the and the failures full of tears.
Masonic Home.
Now I’m losing my mind and my body
Remember this, it matters not how poor or wealthy, or Death is near but I don’t despair
what your misfortune may be. The only thing that will I’ve lived my life upon the level
start you on obtaining the privilege of the Home is by And I’m dying upon the square.
being in Good Standing.
Sometimes the greatest lessons
If you have any health or economic reasons that makes Are those that are learned anew
it impossible for you to pay your dues, check with your And the old man in the park today
Lodge. Many have an “Angel” or “Help a Brother” has changed my point of view.
program where another Lodge Brother will pay your dues
for you. To all Masonic brothers
The only secret is to care
- W:. J. Bruce Moore, PM May you live upon the level.
High Twelve Lodge No. 317 F.& A.M. May you part upon the square.
Now residing at the Masonic Home, St. Petersburg
Masonres@aol.com courtesy of W:. Gil Weisman, PM
FM BCC1953@aol.com
Zone 6 Chairman, Masonic Education
NOVEMber 2002 21 THE FLORIDA MASON
 THE ARGUMENT FOR QUICK-TIME MASONIC EDUCATION (continued from page 20)
DEGREES
W:.Gennaro Lume, PM Isn’t it time to step back and evaluate ourselves? Our
Duneln136@aol.com Lodges? Our indifferent attitudes towards the initiation
Dunnellon Lodge No. 136 F.& A.M. and advancement of new Brothers? Isn’t it time we
started attending the District School of Instruction, taking
Recently Dunnellon Lodge received dispensation from the new Brothers with us, to refresh and update our work
the Grand Lodge of Florida to use the one-day degree on catechisms, degree work, wording and floor work?
format to raise eight candidates to the Sublime Degree Isn’t it time we went back to the basics and began
of Master Mason in our own Lodge. Dispensation is producing good Masons again?
required for postponing the proficiency work to a later
time. Brothers, it is one of the best things that can happen - R:.W:. Joseph F. Basler, PDDGM
to a Lodge. The Master of the Lodge did an excellent State Chairman, Masonic Education
job of preparation for the occasion and instilling a sense Hialeah, FL
of camaraderie amongst the Brethren. Members of the Jo16TOPKOP@aol.com
Lodge did ninety to ninety-five percent of the work. All FM
those who participated in the degrees or attended the
practice sessions received ritual reinforcement in all of TRAVELING MAN
the degrees. by Bro. Wayne Thigpen
Senior Warden, R.T. Schafer Lodge No. 350 F.& A.M.
The degrees may be concluded in one long day or from Gainesville
two weekends to four consecutive days. We chose the
four-day program so as to give a respite to the I was brought into a Lodge by fellow Brothers.
candidates, the team(s) and members of the Lodge. The Giving me the secrets, as they have with others.
candidates were initiated on the first day. This took no Entered, passed, and raised, my travel took,
longer than a regular lodge meeting. On the second Each time, my hand, a Brother shook.
day they were passed to the degree of Fellow Craft. The
first section of the Master Mason Degree was completed After knocks on a door, my name was read.
on the third day and the second session was completed I was bound, blinded, and could not see,
on the fourth day. This gave everyone a chance to think Lead by a Brother, trust in him would be.
about the upcoming degree on the next night and the Instruments applied upon my body, in the degrees,
candidates to think about what happened to him. Teaching me the meaning of symbols would be.
Become a traveling man and an oath to take,
The times are changing and Masonry should take the Of my own free will, I would have to make.
opportunity to make it available to take advantage of
these changes. Our present Grand Master is bold enough I learned the working tools of Freemasonry.
to help us do this. There have been changes in the past Symbolically used from Biblical history.
and Masonry is still alive and active. Membership has Brothers among Brothers in friendship,
been down in our Brotherhood and other organizations morality and Brotherly love.
but I believe things will turn around at this point in our Asking blessings, from God up above.
existence. In light, as in dark, we can recognize a Brother,
And in time of need, to help one another.
There have been arguments pro and con for the one-
day classes. By placing the job into the hands of the Masons before did the same as I,
individual Lodges should eliminate a lot of the Even my father, Brothers by and by.
controversy. One of the outstanding objections is that, It is my turn to pass on down the line
“Its not the way we did it.” True, but we do not have to the secrets and words, to new Masons,
walk to school or church anymore. Another argument is when it becomes their time.
that the Lodge members do not have the privilege of With love and devotion, as they did with me,
conferring the degrees as a function of the Lodge. In With pride and anticipation, I’ll love to see.
this case it is a repetitive duty because you can have
more than one or more “quick time” degrees. Instead of Love of God, country, family, and Masonry,
doing it two or three times a year you will be doing it two Those gifts, mean the world to me.
or three times a year for three or four times the Bless you all, deep from the heart,
candidates. You will be helping increase membership Brothers, in Masonry, we all are a part.
not only for your Lodge but also for Florida Masonry. FM
FM
NOVEMber 2002 22 THE FLORIDA MASON
 BIAS - BY US (is okay)! ized life's mileage counts. They understand the saying,
"Some people have it and some don't, the Masonic "if I had known I was going to live this long I would have
lodge is full of it!" taken better care of myself." Our senior citizens have
by Richard A. Wolfe, KYCH experienced life; they've seen and felt change. They've
Merritt Island Lodge No. 353 F.& A.M. witnessed the unwelcome changes of death. They have
http://www.mi353.org/ lived and learned to accept their own as well as others
Merritt Island, FL opinions and biases. They've earned the right to have
rawolfe@megabits.net and express an opinion. For example, "We tried that ten
years ago Worshipful Master and it didn't work then ei-
The purpose of this paper is to express a concern; my ther," and my favorite answer, "I can't tell you that, it's a
opinion on that concern, and offer a solution. Please secret."
listen to the entire paper before you judge it.
Thomas Paine in his manuscript "Common Sense" in
Its a fact the biggest problem in Masonry today is mem- 1775, writing of England's treatment of the colonies and
bership. I also believe it is within our ability to solve the proposing a solution said, "We have the power to begin a
problem. new world." His idea in writing his manuscript was not
just to state his opinion but also to inform and educate
During our degree work we declare, "The three principle the people, actually educate the masses. Common Sense
stages of life are youth, manhood and age." As we grow became a best seller in the colonies and one of the prin-
through these stages we are educated, experience life, ciple documents promoting the growth of the American
develop disciplines, and form opinions or biases. Biases Revolution. It actually did educate the citizens of the
are what you perceive normal to be. Maybe how we colonies.
desire normal should be. Biases or opinions form what
and who you are. New members come with a variety of In the York Rite Mark Master degree as we talk of the
experiences, at various education levels and are in all working tools on Page 31; "The chisel morally demon-
stages of life. They bring with them their life's experi- strates the advantages of discipline and education. The
ences, opinions and biases. Opinions or biases make mind, like the diamond in its original state, is rude and
the man. unpolished, but as the effect of the chisel on the external
coat presents to view the latent beauties of a diamond,
In a 1950's song, "Welcome to my World," Eddy Arnold so education discovers the latent virtues of the mind."
sings, "Welcome to my world, won't you come on
in."..."Knock and the door will be opened, Seek and you It is safe to say the wisdom of age is earned through
will find, Ask and you will be given the key to this world experience. As our senior Masons advance in age and
of mine." experience, the latent beauty and Masonic virtues in their
minds, is untapped. Of our senior Masons it could be
The Masonic invitation we extend candidates is similar, said we are drinking from the saucer because the cup of
welcoming them into our Masonic world; however, we Masonic wisdom is running over. We must learn to take
don't always readily accept the journey of Masonic initia- advantage, to use, to apply this experience and wisdom.
tion is not a packaged tour, it's defiantly not as smooth
as Eddy's song. Initiation into a Masonic lodge requires Our senior Brothers have the one thing that could ensure
social, family, individual, and personal change. The na- the life of our lodges and even make them prosper. They
ture of change is that it is usually at some level of con- have years of education, experience, years of fellowship,
flict with the candidates established routine, habits, opin- but most important, the ability and wisdom to make and
ions and yes, even his biases. As the candidate grows keep good quality friends. This is what we should plan
into Masonry their experiences and biases are mixed with and base our Masonic future on.
his Masonic training. This metamorphosis from candi-
date to Master Mason may take a lifetime. With luck you If we are to profligate Masonic membership we MUST
might get there, it's not as simple as the stages of life make available to every Mason a decade 2000 Masonic
and not as explainable. Common Sense document, a training plan, a plan that
uses our most valuable asset, our members experience,
Youth and Manhood: We all know the young Masons a plan that actually educates our Masonic masses. All
are the busiest; just ask them. With a young family they Masons should learn how to talk about the oldest and
don't always have time to come to lodge. best fraternal society in our free country, and the world,
FREEMASONRY. We should educate the citizens of our
From our aged or senior Masons we expect more. "Se-
niors" are older and wiser. You could say they have real- (continued on page 19 - see BIAS - BY-US)
NOVEMber 2002 23 THE FLORIDA MASON
 THE MOTHER LODGE
- by Bro. Rudyard Kipling
Hope and Perseverance Lodge No. 782. E.C.
Lahore, India

There was Rundle, Station Master, Full oft on Guv’ment service

An’ Beazeley of the Rail, This rovin’ foot ‘ath pressed,
An’ ‘Ackman, Commissariat, An’ bore fraternal greetin’s
An’ Donkin’ o’ the Jail; To the Lodges east an’ west,
An’ Blake, Conductor-Sargent, Accordin’ as commanded
Our Master twice was ‘e, From Kohat to Singapore,
With ‘im that kept the Europe-shop, But I wish that I might see them
Old Framjee Eduljee. In my Mother-Lodge once more!

Outside — “Sergeant! Sir! Salute! Salaam!” I wish that I might see them,
Inside — “Brother”, an’ it doesn’t do no ‘arm. My Brethren black an’ brown,
We met upon the Level an’ we parted on the Square, With the trichies smellin’ pleasant
An’ I was Junior Deacon in my Mother-Lodge out there! An’ the hog-darn passin’ down; [Cigar-lighter.]
An’ the old khansamah snorin’ [Butler.]
We’d Bola Nath, Accountant, On the bottle-khana floor, [Pantry.]
An’ Saul the Aden Jew, Like a Master in good standing
An’ Din Mohammed, draughtsman With my Mother-Lodge once more!
Of the Survey Office too;
There was Babu Chuckerbutty, Outside — “Sergeant! Sir! Salute! Salaam!”
An’ Amir Singh the Sikh, Inside — “Brother”, an’ it doesn’t do no ‘arm.
An’ Castro from the fittin’-sheds, We met upon the Level an’ we parted on the Square,
The Roman Catholick! An’ I was Junior Deacon in my Mother-Lodge out there!

We ‘adn’t good regalia, FM

An’ our Lodge was old an’ bare,
But we knew the Ancient Landmarks,
An’ we kep’ ‘em to a hair;
An’ lookin’ on it backwards
It often strikes me thus,
There ain’t such things as infidels,
Excep’, per’aps, it’s us.

For monthly, after Labour,

We’d all sit down and smoke
(We dursn’t give no banquits,
Lest a Brother’s caste were broke),
An’ man on man got talkin’
Religion an’ the rest,
An’ every man comparin’
Of the God ‘e knew the best.
Bro. Kipling
So man on man got talkin’,
An’ not a Brother stirred
Till mornin’ waked the parrots
An’ that dam’ brain-fever-bird;
We’d say ’twas ‘ighly curious,
An’ we’d all ride ‘ome to bed,
With Mo’ammed, God, an’ Shiva
Changin’ pickets in our ‘ead.

NOVEMber 2002 24 THE FLORIDA MASON

 AND FINALLY...
“The Way We Were”
LIFE MAGAZINE - October 8, 1956

Courtesy of Bro. Steve Branham - Sutherland Lodge No. 174 F.& A.M., Palm Harbor

FM

NOVEMber 2002 25 THE FLORIDA MASON

THE FLORIDA M SON

END

NOVEMber 2002 THE FLORIDA MASON