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VOLUME LIII - March 2007 - NUMBER 3
"The Magazine for York Rite Masons-and Others, too"
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WEBSITE Published monthly as an official publication of the
Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America.
RICHARD BURDITT BALDWIN, Grand Master and Publisher,
Lawrence E. Tucker, Grand Recorder and Editor
5909 West Loop South, Suite 495, Bellaire, TX 77401-2402
(713) 349-8700 (telephone), (713) 349-8710 (facsimile)
E-mail: letucker@sbcglobal.net
Joan B. Morton Assistant Editor
Mail materials and correspondence, to:
Editor, Grand Encampment of Knights Templar
Post Office Box 478448
Chicago, IL 60647-8448
phone and fax: (773) 489-0689
Website Operated and Maintained by
SK Dan Pushee, EPC, KYCH, OPC - Email: kych52va@aol.com
VISITORS Since January 8, 2007
Material for the Grand Commanderies' two-page supplements is to be directed to the respective Supplement editors.
Supplement Editors are encouraged to create their own sites or submit "NEWS" to kych52va@aol.com
Address corrections from members are to be sent to the local Recorders LISTED HERE

    MARCH:
    Read Grand Master Baldwin's message ; there's news from Masonic Week and information for your participation in the Grand Encampment's Easter Sunrise Service in Alexandria, Virginia, as well as other festivities in Washington, DC. Biographies of four more Department Commanders are included in this issue, starting on page 5, and more news concerning the 39th Annual Voluntary Campaign for KTEF starts on page 12; you'll also find donation forms for two KTEF clubs on page 15. Don't forget to use the KTEF Shopping Mall for all your shopping needs and benefit the KTEF at the same time. We think you will enjoy the articles and news items you'll find here. Enjoy!


Grand Master's Message for March 2007

    The officers of your Grand Encampment have just returned &om an outstanding few days at Masonic Week in Washington, OCt The fellowship that is found at this national meetiagis superb. I would encourage you to attend next year and experience it yourself.
    Congratulations to Sir Knight William Howard Koon II, Right Eminent Deputy Grand Master on his ascent to high office as the Most Worthy Supreme Magus of the High Council of Masonic Societas Rosicruciana in Civitatibus Foederatis and as the Most Eminent Grand Preceptor of the Grand
    College of America, Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests. We Wish him and all who were
    elected to preside much success during their terms. Many past and present officers of the Grand Encampment are involved all of the Masonic bodies that meet during Masonic Week.
    We are still ahead of last year at this point in the Voluntary Campaign for the Knights Templar Eye Foundation. Please keep up the good work and make this year the best ever.
    If your your Grand Commandery or a neighboring one is having an Annual Conclave, I hope you will aatend and support them. I will be visiting the Grand Commandery of North Dakota later this month and look forward to meeting with many of you. Please come out and say hello to my personal representatives at the many other Conclaves this spring.
    I would like to repeat my personal invitation to you to attend the Easter Sunrise Sunrise Service the George Washington Masonic National Memorial in Alexandria, Virginia. We are looking forward to a great attendance, an inspiring message from Sir Knight Robert John Cave, Right Eminent Grand Prelate, and a truly glorious Easter! Please make it even better with your participation.

Cordially and fraternally


Sir Knight Richard Burditt Baldwin
Most Eminent Grand Master
2006 - 2009

    Meet Four Right Eminent Department Commanders of the Grand Encampment 2006-2009

    VAUGHN F. SHAFER
    Right Eminent Department Commander (2006-2009)
    Mid-Atlantic Department

    Sir Knight Vaughn F. Shafer was born August 4, 1938, in Dunbar, West Virginia. He was educated in the school system of Kanawha County, West Virginia, and graduated from Charleston High school in 1956. He was honorably discharged from the United States Air Force in 1960 after completing a four-year tour of duty. During this time he served a year in Alaska at a remote radar site as a radar operator and two and a half years at Fort Lee, Virginia, at the headquarters Washington Air Defense Sector. He has been married to the former Sylvia Pringle of Hinton, West Virginia, for thirty-two years, and they reside in Charleston, West Virginia. He has two daughters, Cynthia and Carla, by a previous marriage and two granddaughters. He is a member and an usher of Emanuel Baptist Church in Charleston, West Virginia.
    Sir Knight Shafer's business career includes twenty-seven years as a road dispatcher for a trucking company and eight years with two design and drafting companies. He worked approximately six years for Kelly Temporary Services before retiring. He now works part-time for Cunningham, Parker and Johnson Funeral Home in Charleston, West Virginia.
    Sir Knight Shafer was initiated in Kanawha Lodge No. 20 on May 7, 1980; was passed on June 2, 1980; and was raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason on June 18, 1980. He served as Worshipful Master of Kanawha Lodge No. 20 in 1985-1986, 1986-1987, 2003-2004, 2004-2005, 2005-2006, and 2006-2007. He became a member of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, Valley of Charleston, Orient of West Virginia, in 1980, and a member of Beni Kedem Shrine Temple of the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of Mystic Shrine of North America on November 1, 1980, and is an honorary member of Nemesis Shrine in Parkersburg, West Virginia. He was exalted to the Most Sublime Degree of Royal Arch Mason in 1983 in Tyrian Chaptcr No. 13 and is now serving as Grand Lecturer of the Grand Chapter, Royal Arch Masons of West Virginia. He has also received the Super Excellent Master Degree in West Virginia. He was dubbed and created a Knight Templar in the Valiant and Magnanimous Order of the Temple in Kanawha Commandery No. 4 in 1983. He served as Eminent Commander of Kanawha Commandery No. 4 in 1986-1987 and as Most Excellent High Priest of Tyrian Chapter No. 13 in 1995-1996. He served as Right Eminent Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery, Knights Templar of West Virginia, in 1999-2000 and is an honorary member of the following Grand Commanderies: Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Virginia, and Maryland. He was constituted a Knight Commander of the Temple in 2000. He is a member of the Forty-Fivers, Association of Past Grand Commanders.
            He is a Past Sovereign of the West Virginia Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine, and is now serving as Treasurer; Past Governor of Charles W. Wise York Rite College No. 137 of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America and received the Order of the Purple Cross in Atlanta, Georgia, in July of 2004; a member of Mountain State Priory No. 55, Knights of the York Cross of Honour, and KYGCH (one quadrant); a member of the Past Masters Club of Beni Kedem Temple and is now serving as Secretary; a member of Mount Calvary Tabernacle No. XIX, Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests, now serving as Sixth Pillar; a member of Saint Lawrence the Martyr Council No. 21, Allied Masonic Degrees, now serving as Junior Warden; a life member of West Virginia Council No. 7, Knight Masons of the United States of America; a member of the West Virginia College, Masonic Societas Rosicruciana In Civitatibus Foederatis; a member of Charleston Court 111, Royal Order of Jesters; a member of Bosworth Council No. 46, Grand Council, Royal & Select Masons of Ohio; a member of the Grand Master's Club of the Knights Templar Eye Foundation and also a Life Sponsor of the Eye Foundation. He is also a member of Charleston Lodge No. 1444, Loyal Order of Moose.
    He was appointed Right Eminent Department Commander, Mid-Atlantic Department, by Sir Knight Richard Burditt Baldwin, Most Eminent Grand Master, on August 16, 2006, at the 63rd Triennial in Houston, Texas.


    FRANKLIN C. BONER
    Right Eminent Department Commander (2006-2009)
    East Central Department

    Sir Knight Franklin Cooper Boner was born on October 22, 1939, in Bellville, Ohio, eldest child of Walter Cooper and Anna M. Boner. He graduated from Johnsville High School in 1957 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Management from Park College, Parkville, Missouri, in 1984. He was employed as a Management Analyst at the Newark Air Force Base, retiring in 1993 after completing 30 years of service. He served in the US Navy, 1957-1960 and in the US Naval Reserves from 1978, retiring December 7, 1997. On May 27, 2000, he was united in marriage with Betty L. Jones. He is a member of Christ United Methodist Church, Newark, Ohio, where he is presently serving as Chairman of the Finance Committee, member of the Administrative Board, and past president of the Pastor Parish committee.
            Sir Knight Boner began his Masonic Career in Center Lodge No. 86, F. & A.M., Johnstown, Ohio. He was raised January 6, 1965, and served as Worshipful Master in 1972. In 1990 he was elected Secretary, an office he still occupies. He was exalted in Gilead Chapter No. 59, R.A.M., Mt. Gilead, Ohio, May 27, 1968, serving as High Priest in 1971, Order of High Priesthood, 1971. He was Secretary, 1971-1982. He is a member of Warren Chapter No. 6, Newark, Ohio, served as High Priest in 1984, Secretary 1985-1986, and served as District Deputy Grand High Priest 14th Capitular District, 1986-1989. Also, he is a member of Clinton Chapter No. 26, Mt. Vernon, Ohio, serving as High Priest in 1998. He was appointed Grand Representative to Ireland near the Grand Chapter, R.A.M., of Ohio, an honor he still holds. Additionally, he is a member of the Chapter of Research of the Grand Chapter, R.A.M., of Ohio.
            Sir Knight Boner is a member of Kinsman Council No. 76, Mt. Vernon, Ohio, serving as Illustrious Master in 1974 and receiving the Order of Silver Trowel, 1974.
    Franklin Boner was Knighted March 6, 1971, in Clinton Commandery No. 5, Mt. Vernon, Ohio, and served as Eminent Commander in 1979. He holds plural memberships in Mt. Vernon Commandery No 1, St. Luke's Commandery No. 34, presently Recorder, and St. George Commandery No. 76. He has also served as President and Secretary of the 5th Division CTA, Deputy Division Commander 1984-1986, and was appointed Grand Sentinel by Sir Knight Richard A. Meacham in 1992. He was also appointed Grand representative to the Grand Commandery of Virginia near the Grand Commandery of Ohio in 1992. In 2000 Sir Knight Boner was invested with the rank and dignity of Knight Commander of the Temple. He is serving as Department Commander, East Central, 2006-2009.
    He was elected a member of Ohio Priory No. 18, Knights of the York Cross of Honour, November 1979. Other Masonic affiliations are: member of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Valley of Columbus, and Honorary member of the Supreme Council 33º Masons; member of Aladdin Temple Shrine and the Licking County Shrine Club; member of Teheran Grotto, Newark, Ohio; founder of Morrow Chapter, Order of De Molay, November 1973, serving as Chairman of the Advisory Council, served as Deputy Governor, 1973-1976, and received the Honorary Legion of Honor from the International Supreme Council of the Order of De Molay. Other Masonic memberships include:Royal Order of Scotland; Galilean Tabernacle No. XXIII, Grand College of America, Holy Royal Arch Knights Templar Priests, and serving 2006 as Very Eminent Preceptor; Centennial York Rite College No. 87;Charter member of Charlemagne and Lafayette Conclaves of the Red Cross of Constantine, Sovereign, Lafayette, 2005; Galilean Council, Knight Masons of Ireland; Grand College of Rites; Frank H. Nicklaus Council No. 208, Allied Masonic Degrees, Sovereign Master, 2001 and received the Red Branch of Eri, 2001; Secretary, Peter J. Copeland Council No.408, Allied Masonic Degrees; appointed Grand Secretary/Treasurer, Allied Masonic Degrees of the USA, April 2001; elected Grand Secretary/I'reasurer, February 2002 to present; Deputy Secretary General, Masonic Societas Rosicruciana in Civitatibus Foederatis. He is also a member of Hanover Chapter, Order of Eastern Star,Worthy Patron,2005-2006; a member and Past Watchman of the Shepherds of the Order of the White Shrine of Jerusalem; and a member of Columbus Court No. 58, Order of the Amaranth. His civic honors include: a member of the Kentucky Colonels and the Franklin County Memorial Lodge. Sir Knight Franklin C. Boner was appointed R.E.Department Commander, East Central, by M.E. Grand Master Richard B. Baldwin at the 63rd Triennial Conclave of the Grand Encampment, August 16, 2006, in Houston, Texas.


    ROBERT E. BURLESON
    Right Eminent Department Commander (2006-2009)
    Southeastern Department

    Sir Knight Robert Edward Burleson is a third-generation Floridian. Born in Rockledge, Florida, he is the second son of Gordon Sinclair Burleson, Sr., and Julia LaDrew Burleson. He grew up in Winter Park and Orlando and graduated from William R. Boone High School, where he was a member of the Student Senate, The Boone Legend yearbook staff, Quill & Scroll, and the National Honor Society.
    Following high school, he enrolled in Orlando Junior College, where he was Vice Chairman of the Political Union and Editor of The Bagpipe, the school yearbook. After receiving his Associate of Arts degree, he transferred to the University of Florida, Gainesville, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Advertising degree in 1969. While at the University of Florida, he was inducted into Douglas Leigh Chapter of Alpha Delta Sigma, a national professional advertising fraternity for men.
            After graduation, Bob worked briefly for the Ocala Star-Banner and then became Director of Publications for the Environmental Management Association, a national trade association based in Clearwater. He also served as editor of their quarterly magazine. In 1972 he became an Education Officer with the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission in Miami and was promoted in 1977 to regional supervisor responsible for managing a 10-county public information program from the Commission's regional office in West Palm Beach.
            In 1980 Bob moved back to Orlando to become a writer/editor with Avionics Research Corporation of Florida producing audio-visual training programs for the U.S. Navy. In 1981 he accepted a position with Martin Marietta Corporation's Electronics, Information & Missiles Group. He returned to Avionics Research following his involuntary layoff from Martin in 1992 and is currently serving as a Senior Proposal Specialist under contract with Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control in Orlando.
            Bob joined the U.S. Army Reserve in 1964 and served until his honorable discharge as a Staff Sergeant (E-6) in 1970. In 1967 he attended the U.S. Army Non-Commissioned Officers Academy at Ft. McClellan, Alabama, where he was the Honor Graduate (first in his class).
            He has two sons: Jay, who graduated from Mars Hill College, Mars Hill, North Carolina, with a degree in Communications, and now lives in Montana with his wife Mandy; and Drew, who has a degree from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh and lives in Denver, Colorado, where he is Director of Graphic Design and Web Development for Colorado Veterinary Products. Both are Senior DeMolays.
            Bob began his Masonic career in 1965 when he was raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason in Orlando Lodge No. 69. He affiliated with Eola Lodge No. 207, Orlando, in 1987 and served that lodge as Worshipful Master in 1992. He is a Perpetual Member. He joined the York Rite in 1966 and was Excellent High Priest of Eureka Chapter No. 7 in 1988; Illustrious Master of Orlando Council No. 5 in 1985; and Eminent Commander of Olivet Commandery No. 4 in 1987. He is a life member in all three bodies. Bob is a Past Prior of Florida Priory No. 60, KYCH, and holds the Knight of the York Grand Cross of Honour with 2 quadrants.
            Among his many other Masonic affiliations, he is a member of John B. Phelps York Rite College No. 31 and served as its Governor in 1990. He received the Order of the Purple Cross in 1993 and served as Grand Governor of Florida for the York Rite Sovereign College of North America for 6 years (1998-2004). He was elected a Regent of the Sovereign College in 2005.
    Bob is a Past Puissant Sovereign of Labarum Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine, and is the current Intendant General for Florida for the United Grand Imperial Council. He is a Very Eminent Past Preceptor of King of Kings Tabernacle No. XXV, Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar
    Priests. Bob is a charter member of Florida College, Masonic Societas Rosicrusiana in Civitatibus Foederatis, and was elevated to Grade IXº and appointed Chief Adept for Florida in 1999.
    He has served twice as a District Committee Chairman in the 17th Masonic District of the Grand Lodge, F. & A.M., of Florida. Over the past 20 years, he has served on and,chaired numerous committees of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Florida (where he received the Gold Key Award); the Grand Council of Royal & Select Masters of Florida; and the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Florida (where he received the Meritorious Service Ribbon with Gold Star-worn for a second award).
            Bob was appointed as Grand Steward of the Grand Council, R. & S.M., of Florida in 1987 and progressed through the line to become Most Illustrious Grand Master in 1992. He also served as Illustrious King of Florida Council of Annointed Kings that same year. He was appointed as Grand Ambassador for the General Grand Council of Cryptic Masons International from 1993-1996, received their Columbian Medal (Southeast Region) for leadership excellence in 1996, and was appointed Right Puissant General Grand Chaplain for the triennium (2002-2005).
    He was appointed as Grand Sentinel of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Florida in 1994 and progressed through the line to become Right Eminent Grand Commander in 2002. He served as Editor of the Florida Supplement for the Knight Templar magazine for 10 years (1994-2004) and is a Knight Commander of the Temple. He is currently an appointed officer in the Knight Crusaders of the Cross.
    He was appointed Department Commander for the Southeastern Department of the Grand Encampment by M.E. Richard B. Baldwin at the 63rd Triennial in Houston, Texas, August 16, 2006.
    He is a Past Monarch and Life Member of Ormazd Grotto, M.O.V.P.E.R.; served as Director of publications and Grand Ambassador for the Supreme Council, Grottoes of North America; and was President of the Florida State Grotto Association in 1989-1990. He is a member of the Orlando Scottish Rite, served as Editor of their newsletter for 12 years; and was coroneted a 33degree in 2001. His other Masonic affiliations include the Orlando High Twelve Club; Seminole Chapter No. 373, National Sojourners; the Order of the Golden Key; Grand College of Rites; Grand Master's Council A, A.M.D.; Trinity Chapel, Order of St. Thomas of Acon; Great Chief's Council No. 0, Knight Masons; Masonic Order of the Bath of the U.S.A.; and Oxford Lodge No. 1, Ark Mariners. He is the current Provincial Grand Bung for the U.S.A. of Ye Antient Order of Corks. Bob has served twice as Watchman of Shepherds in Bethany Shrine No. 3,Order of the White Shrine of Jerusalem.
    Bob is a Senior DeMolay from John M. Cheney Chapter in Orlando. He is a Past Master Councilor and Representative DeMolay. He received the Grand Lodge of Florida Outstanding Youth Award and is a Past Commander of Central Florida Court of Chevaliers; Past Dean of Saints John Preceptory, Legion of Honor; and has served as a member of the Florida DeMolay Legion of Honor Degree Team since 1994.
    He has received several special citations from the Orlando Sentinel Letter Writer's Forum, a Volunteer Service Award from the Central Florida YMCA, and served as a volunteer for the Civic Theatre of Central Florida for 20 years. His other fraternal membership includes Magnolia Lodge No. 21,Independent Order of Odd Fellows, in DeLand, Florida.


    ROBERT C. COE
    Right Eminent Department Commander (2006-2009)
    Southwestern Department

    On June 18, 1945, in Altadena (rural Pasadena), California, a newly raised Master Mason, Robert E. Coe, and his wife, Carolyn, welcomed into the world a new baby boy and named him Robert Craig Coe. After living in various locations, the family settled into a house in Alhambra in 1947, which remained as the family residence until after the death of both parents. In 1950 Robert Craig started going to church at the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Alhambra and now serves as Chairman of the Elders and Chairman of the Administrative Board.
    For thirteen years, all schooling was in the public schools of Alhambra, and he followed his parents lead in graduating from Alhambra High School. His college education was completed in March of 1972, when he graduated from California State College in Los Angeles with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration. He majored in Accounting and passed the Certified Public Accountant examination and became a certified public accountant in 1974. He currently has his own accounting practice in Arcadia, California, and has also resided in Arcadia since 1976.
            His Army service started in 1967, and after basic training in Fort Ord, California,he received additional training in Fort Gordon, Georgia, and was an instructor with the southeastern Signal School in .1968. From February 1969 to January 1970, he served with the 121st Signal Battalion, First Infantry Division, in Viet Nam.
    In November 1971 his father set up a blind date for a Past Masters' Night at Lodge. Robert had met Saundra Lee Hill many years before, but this was their first date. The following month at the Lodge Installation their engagement was announced, and they were married on May 27, 1972. Lady Saundra is very supportive of his endeavors and is very active in Alhambra Chapter No. 193, Order of Eastern Star; Santa Ana Assembly No. 61, Social Order of the Beauceant, and San Gabriel Valley Noblettes.
    Robert's Masonic career started as a DeMolay in Alhambra and continues to the current time, as he is currently serving as Secretary/Recorder of the three York Rite bodies in Rosemead and as an officer in Red Cross and Eastern Star.
    In DeMolay he joined Alhambra Chapter in 1959 and served as Master Councilor in 1964. He served as Citrus League President in 1966 and has received the Chevalier and Legion of Honor degrees.
            In Symbolic Masonry he was raised in Alhambra Lodge No. 322 on November 14, 1966, and served asMaster in 1979. He served Grand Lodge on two committees from 1985 to 1999.
            In Capitular Masonry he was exalted on April 19, 1970, in San Gabriel Valley Chapter No. 100 and served as High Priest in 1988, 1990, and 1993. He has served on various committees of Grand Chapter and is currently the Grand Representative of Colorado near California. He is also a member of Triple Tau Chapter No. 33. In Cryptic Masonry he was greeted in Alhambra Council No. 25 on May 12, 1970, and served as Illustrious Master from 1991 to 1993. He has received the Master of Ish Sodi from his Council. He has served on a committee of Grand Council and also served Grand Council as an Inspector from 1995 to 1997. He received the Grand Master of Ish Sodi in 1995 from Grand Council. He became a charter member of Oasis Council No. 64 in 1996.
    In Chivalric Masonry he was Knighted in Alhambra Commandery No. 48 (presently San Gabriel Valley No. 31) on February 24, 1972. He served as Commander in 1990 and received the meritorious Service Award from his Commandery in 1997. He has served on many committees and was appointed as Grand Warder of the Grand Commandery of California in 1997 and served as Grand Commander in 2002-2003.
    He is currently the Grand Representative of Mississippi near California. In 2005 the honor of Knight Commander of the Temple was bestowed on him. Other Masonic affiliations are: Long Binh Square and Compass Club (Viet Nam); Southern California York Rite College No. 110, Past Governor (1999) and recipient of the Order of the Purple Cross in 1995;Excalibur Council No. 218, A.M.D., Past Sovereign Master (1998); Los Angeles Priory No. 27, KYCH; Brian Born Council No. 38, Knight Masons; Saint Croix Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine; Alhambra Chapter No. 193, O.E.S., Past Patron (1995 and 1997); Missouri Lodge of Research; Southern California Lodge of Research; Battalion & Belles; Southern California Past Masters Association; California Order of High Priesthood; California Thrice Illustrious Masters Council (served as Thrice Illustrious Master in 2001); and California Past Commanders Association. He was honored as a Member of Honor of Bethel No. 210, Monrovia, International Order of Job's Daughters, in 2003.
            Civic activities include: Arcadia Chamber of Commerce; California State Society of Certified Public Accountants; Honolulu Post No. 1, American Legion; Island Outpost No. 4682, Veterans of Foreign Wars; and Society of the First Infantry Division.
    Sir Knight Robert Craig Coe was appointed as Right Eminent Department Commander, Southwestern, at the 63rd Triennial by M.E. Grand Master Richard B. Baldwin in Houston, Texas, on August 16, 2006.
    The remaining biographies of Department Commanders will run in June 2007

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    EASTER 2007
    HOTEL
    $95.00 Room Rate (mention Grand Encampment)
    Make your hotel reservations directly with the Hotel Washington 515 15th Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20004, 800-424-9540
    MEAL TICKETS
    Meal package, $40 per person includes Saturday luncheon and Sunday breakfast
    Order your meal tickets from the Grand Encampment Office
            Mail your check payable to Grand Encampment to
          Grand Recorder, 5909 West Loop South, Suite 495, Bellaire, TX 77401-2402
    Individual tickets may be ordered separately:
    Saturday luncheon, $35; Sunday breakfast, $15
    Hotel and meal ticket cutoff date is March 24, 2007
    There will be no tickets sold at the door.
    Direct questions to: The Grand Encampment Office: 713-349-8700

    PRELIMINARY EASTER-2007
    The 77th Easter Sunrise Service, sponsored by the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America, will again be held on the steps of the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, Alexandria, Virginia, on Sunday, April 8, 2007, and will begin at 7:30 A.M. As in previous years, this Service and the breakfast after will complete a memorable weekend of events in our nation's capital, Washington, D.C., including delegation dinners, tours, and Masonic fellowship. For one event, it is to be noted that the cherry blossoms should be in full bloom-a sure sign of spring!

    THE HOTELWASHINGTON
    The main hotel will again be the Hotel Washington in downtown Washington, D.C. Our special Knights Templar rate is $95.00 per room, based on double occupancy. Write the hotel to make your reservations:
    Hotel Washington, ATTN: Grand Encampment Easter
    Program, 515 15th Street, N.W.,
    Washington, D. C. 20004.
    Include your check or credit card number.
    You may also call the Hotel
    Washington at (800) 424-9540,
    and speak with Sandy Warner to make reservations for rooms, giving your credit card number for billing. Check with the hotel upon arrival to insure all your reservations are complete.

    MEALS
    Prices are: A meal package is available for $40.00 per person, which includes Saturday luncheon and Sunday breakfast. Order your meal tickets from the Grand Encampment knight templar office. Mail your check payable to Grand Encampment
    to Grand Recorder, 5909 West Loop South,
    Suite 495, Bellaire, TX 77401-2402.
    Individual tickets may be ordered separately:
    Saturday luncheon, $35.00;
    Sunday breakfast, $15.00.
    Note: The hotel and meal ticket
    cutoff date is March 24, 2007.
    There will be no tickets sold at the door.

    GRAND COMMANDERS AND THEIR LADIES
    Grand Commanders and their ladies may attend the Saturday luncheon, courtesy of the Grand Encampment by prior reservation ONLY.

    OUR GRAND MASTER
    The Grand Master of the Grand Encampment, Knights Templar of the United States of America, Sir Knight Richard Burditt Baldwin, and his officers will greet everyone at the Saturday luncheon. This will be Sir Knight Baldwin's first Easter as Grand Master, so let's get a big crowd out for this fine occasion in Washington.

    TOMB OF THE UNKNOWNS
    On Saturday, April 7, 2007, at 1:15 P.M., the Grand Commandery of Indiana will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery honoring their members who fell in combat as members of the Armed Forces of the United States of America. They'have again asked that everyone be invited to attend. The details of the trip to Arlington will be available when you arrive.

    EASTER MORNING PROGRAM
    The Hotel Washington will be serving coffee and pastries beginning at 5:30 A.M., Easter morning. The buses will be available to leave at 6:15 A.M. to take members and their ladies to the George Washington Masonic National Memorial for the Sunrise Services. The buses will return to the hotel after the Service at about 9:30 A.M so you can enjoy breakfast and meeting with friends. There will also be coffee and donuts available at the Memorial for those not staying at the Hotel Washington. They will be served in the West Dining Room.

    PARADE FORMATION
    The parade will form on the lane leading up the hill. Delegations will form according to their entry into the Grand Encampment, senior to junior, and markers for each will be in place.
    As in the last seven years, the Maryland delegation in their black plumes will appear before the formal parade with drummers and form a passion cross in the stands. The Grand Commandery of Maryland would also like to invite any of the other Commanderies which wear the black plume to get in touch and participate in the formation of the Cross.
    The parade will step off at 7:10 A.M., proceed up the hill, render "Eyes Right" on passing the Grand Master and his staff, and then proceed into seats as directed. Formation of three squads each is suggested, as well as at Secure Swords, in order to avoid bunching up on top of the hill. Colors will Right Flank at the podium and column Left and column Right and post the colors as directed. Parking for cars and buses is available at the top of the hill next to the Memorial. However, no vehicles will be permitted up the roadway after 7:00 A.M.

    OTHER DETAILS
    Delegations desiring to make any special group arrangements should call Sandy Warner at the Hotel number. Delegations staying at other hotels or motels must provide their own transportation or meet at the Hotel Washington. Recognition is made to the Grand Commandery having the most Sir Knights in uniform in the parade and to the Grand Commandery having the highest percentage of its members in uniform in the parade. Prior to the service, Kena Shrine Band will provide music beginning at 7:00 A.M. Easter selections will be played as the parade moves out following the Assembly bugle call. The Right Eminent Grand Prelate, Robert J. Cave, will conduct the Service.
    Reservations should be made for rooms and any other activities by March 24, 2007.
    GRAND COMMANDERS ARE REQUESTED TO APPOINT A DELEGATION CHAIRMAN AND
    NOTIFY GRAND RECORDER
    LAWRENCE E. TUCKER, 5909
    WEST LOOP SOUTH, SUITE 495;
    BELLAIRE; TX 77401-2402,
    TELEPHONE NO.: office: (713)
    349-8700; FAX: (713) 349-8710,
    E-MAIL: letucker@sbcglobal.net
    in order to receive information concerning this event and to facilitate
    adequate planning!

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Knights Templar Eye Foundation, Inc.
1000 East State Parkway, Suite I
Schaumburg, IL 60173-2460
Phone: (847) 490-3838
Fax: (847) 490-3777
www.knightstemplar.org/ktef
The 39th Annual Voluntary Campaign
A Message from Sir Knight Kenneth B. Fischer, GCT
Past Grand Master of the Grand Encampment,
Past President of the Knights
Templar Eye Foundation, and Trustee of the Board of the KTEF

    In the book of St. John, the 9th Chapter, verses 1 through 11; we read of Jesus restoring the sight of a blind man. It was this or a similar story which inspired Walter DeLamater to propose the founding of the Knights Templar Eye Foundation. His vision resulted from his gratitude to God, as a result of his being restored to health, when the doctors attending him had basically given up. He was inspired by a truly life-threatening experience. Most of us have never experienced that type of situation, and, in fact, we have been blessed in so many ways. Aren't we, like Sir Knight DeLamater, obligated to show our gratitude for all of the blessings of life? We can do this by supporting the Knights Templar Eye Foundation with our gifts and by spreading the good news to all of our friends and associates.
    Let us help the blind to see.
    Kenneth B. Fischer
    Past Grand Master and Past President and Trustee, KTEF
    Sir Knight Kenneth B. Fischer resides at 5138 Shady Oaks, Friendswood, TX 77546.
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RECIPIENTS OF THE GRAND ENCAMPMENT MEMBERSHIP JEWEL

      572. Carson C. Smith, Raper Commandery No. 1, Indianapolis, IN. 11-20-2006. (silver cluster)
      573. Paul W. Friend, Angola Commandery No. 45, Angola, IN. 12-7-2006. (2 bronze clusters)
      574. Leon Weber, Crawfordsville Commandery No. 25, Crawfordsville, IN. 1-8-2007. (bronze >cluster)
      575. Gerald G. Pugh, Marietta Commandery No. 50, Marietta, OH. 1-22-2007. (silver cluster)
      576. George A. Peterson, Cache Commandery No. 27, Conneaut, OH. 2-1-2007.
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    "Maher-shalal-hash-baz"
    What is this word and why is it there?
    by Sir Knight Rex R. Hutchens
    Deputy Grand Commander and Grand Master, Arizona
    0f all the words to be found in the rituals of the Orders of Templary, probably none gives the novice more trouble in pronunciation than this one. Even veteran Templars find it troublesome if they are not regular participants in the actual performance of the opening ritual, maybe even if they are.
    More important than its pronunciation are the questions of what it means and why it is there. The first question has a rather straightforward answer; the second is a little more difficult.
    Linguistically, this is a phrase and not a word. The individual words carry the following connotation: "speed-spoil-hasten-plunder." Together they form the symbolic name of the second son of Isaiah (Isaiah 8: 1, 3). Its meaning may be: "The spoil speeds, the prey hastes" or so we read in the margin note for the Revised Standard Version. In Who's Who in the Old Testament, (Joan Comay, Holt, Reinhart, Winston, 1971), the meaning is given as "the booty and the shame are imminent." On the other hand, The Oxford Companion to the Bible prefers "swift is the booty, speedy is the prey." The phrase is a reference to the impending doom of Damascus and Samaria at the hands of the Assyrians. This doom is doubly attested, first by the writing of the words on a tablet in the presence of witnesses and in letters that all might read and a year later by the birth of the child bearing the name. The phrase may have an Egyptian origin: an XVIII Dynasty name (h'k) means "hasten, seize booty."
    It should be noted that the first son of Isaiah also had a symbolic name: Shear Jashub (Isaiah 7: 3), meaning either "(Only) a remnant will return (from exile)" or "A remnant will return (toGod)." Also, "a remnant shall repent" has been suggested, which is just another way of saying the same thing since repentance is the avenue of return to God. The context and emphatic position of "remnant" indicates the first translation is probably correct, though there are suggestions of both meanings: it will be a purified remnant that returns. Isaiah's doctrine of the remnant conveys both judgment and promise. It must have taken shape in his mind early in his ministry since his first born was born 737/736 B.C. We know that both names are symbolic because we read in Isaiah 8: 18 (KJV): "Behold, I and the children whom the LORD hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth in mount Zion."
    But we digress-back to the subject at hand. We now have some vague grasp of the range of possible meanings, but this still leaves the second question: Why is it there? Unfortunately, there is no clear answer to this question. Since its translation gives neither a particular Christian significance nor furthers the instruction of any moral lesson related to Templary or Masonry, the question must remain an open one. Perhaps, the answer is as simple as the generally held belief that this name is the longest word in the Bible and, therefore, someone deemed it worthy of memorization.
    In the ritual, this phrase is paired with a word of no small significance to Christians: Immanuel, which must await another article.
    Sir Knight Rex R. Hutchens, Deputy Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery of Arizona and Grand Master of Masons in Arizona, is a member of Arizona Commandery No. 1,Tucson, Arizona. He resides at 4678Coachlight Lane, Tucson, AZ 85718.
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The George Washington Masonic National Memorial Announces
Two Major Masonic Digital History Projects-Part II
by Brother Mark A. Tabbert, Director of Collections

    To read about the first project, an online database of duly constituted U.S. Grand Lodges and local Lodges ever chartered, see the February 2007 issue.
    Project two is "The Digitization ofAmerican Masonic Proceedings."
    This project's mission is to bring the facts and figures, statistics, reports, and activities of every U.S. Grand Lodge out of dusty old books and into every on-line computer in the world. Through this project, every report, page, word, and image in every proceedings since 1733 could be searched on-line by keyword. No longer will Grand Lodges need to keep thousands of hardbound proceedings from every sister jurisdiction and every Masonic body. Like project one, however, the Memorial can only recommend technological and informational specifications to the Grand Ldge for this project. Each Grand Lodge will always be free to choose to participate and at what speed they may convert their proceedings to digital format.
    To coordinate this project, the Memorial is recommending Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) to the Grand Lodges. OCLC is a nonprofit world leader in both digitization and library cataloging, with more than 53,500 public, private, and academic libraries and other cultural heritage organizations in 93 countries (www.oclc.org). Through OCLC, Freemasonry can bring its history to the widest possible audience using one of the most accepted systems.
    As with Project One, the Memorial will act as the coordinating agent with OCLC to digitize proceedings. Participating Grand Lodges will determine what years they wish digitized according to their own financial resources and donations from foundations, Lodges, and individuals to underwrite the projects. The Memorial currently holds two nearly complete sets of Grand Lodge proceedings, and as money is pledged, proceedings will be sent to OCLC. The larger the batch of proceedings, the lower the price will be to scan each page. In short, Grand Lodges, Lodges, and individual Brothers can donate money to have decades, a few years, or a single year scanned.
    Once scanned, the proceedings will be converted into OCLC's searchable system called "CONTENTdm." The costs to license this software and make it accessible through the Memorial website will be shared by all participants, with additional funds coming through grants, donations, and other sources. The good news is that this system is already licensed by over 325 organizations, including but not limited to:academic, public, and historical society libraries and museums. Grand Lodges may receive complete sets of their proceedings in TIFF format on DVD for their own use and donation to libraries that use CONTENTdm.
    The use of OCLC and its CONTENTdm software also provides two great advantages. First, CONTENTdm is essentially a database, and although its primary use is to search the printed word, it is a natural platform to catalog Masonic historical artifacts. Every Grand Lodge that digitizes their proceedings will automatically have the ability to catalog their Masonic museum collections. Therefore, by digitizing U.S. Masonic proceedings, the Memorial will have the means to coordinate a national database of Masonic historical artifacts, photographs, and even audio and video recordings. This will allow anyone on the Internet to find Masonic digital resources for school,scholarly and genealogical research,and for publications, exhibitions, and other media.
    OCLC's second advantage is a national union catalog of Masonic library holdings. Because OCLC's core customers are libraries, through the digitization process every Masonic library in America can enter into a consortium that will allow one universal catalog of Masonic books. What's more, this catalog will be linked to the more than 53,500 OCLC libraries worldwide. Through such a consortium, every Masonic library-big or small, national, state, and local-can easily create its own on-line catalog by appending its library code to preexisting book catalog records.
    Lastly, just like project one, OCLC's digitization process, as well as its CONTENTdm and library catalogs, will be available to all other Masonic organizations. It is quite possible to have Grand Chapters, Grand Councils, and Grand Commanderies digitizing their proceedings within a batch of Grand Lodge proceedings.
    Simultaneously, York Rite, Eastern Star, and other Masonic museums and libraries could also catalog their artifacts and books concurrent with Grand Lodges and Lodges. These two great and important undertakings represent the Memorial Association's renewed commitment to its founding mission.
    The Association was founded in 1910, yet it was in 1932 that the Memorial was dedicated. Just as it took many years to construct the physical Memorial, so it may take years to create a digital "National Masonic Memorial." We cannot erect a physical monument to every Grand Master, Past Master, and Brother who served his Lodge, community, and country. However, through these digital projects, we can tell the world of their work and honor their virtues "until time shall be no more."
    THE END Mark Tabbert, 33°, is a Past Master of Mystic Valley Lodge, Arlington, MA, a member of the Society of Blue Friars, and the author of American Freemasons: Three Centuries of Building Communities.
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Jean Sibelius:
Patriotic Son of Finland and Masonic Recluse
by Sir Knight Peter H. Johnson, Jr., P.G.C. of Arizona

    The blare of the brass defiantly symbolizes Finland's wish to be free from the oppression of the Czar. The quiet hymn tune evokes thoughts of the pine forests and clear waters of the Nordic landscape. The final heroic statement anticipates the victory of liberty over despotism. Originally titled "Finland Forever," Jean Sibelius' 1899 tone poem, "Finlandia," became the definitive statement of the Finnish national spirit. The immense popularity of this work made its composer, Jean Sibelius, a patriotic icon of his beloved native land and a world-class composer considered by many to be a modern-day Beethoven. "Finlandia," like most of Sibelius' compositions, has a brooding quality revealing the composer to be a man of noble thoughts tinged with a pronounced dark side that would follow him throughout the nine decades of his long life.
    Johan Julius Christian Sibelius was born on December 8, 1865, in Hameenlinna in the autonomous Grand Duchy of Finland. Sibelius' father was a physician of Swedish and German descent, who died of cholera when "Jahn" was a young man. The family spoke the Swedish language as was very typical for the times. Jahne did not learn his native tongue until he began attending a Finnish school at age eight. By this time the boy was also showing promise in music and could play the piano and the violin. Young Sibelius also learned about the ancient Nordic legends at school. These old tales would later be the inspiration of his earliest masterpieces.
    As a young adult, Sibelius briefly studied law before returning to musical studies at the Helsinki Conservatory. His inclination towards composition prompted further study in Berlin and Vienna. Although Sibelius studied with the most prominent teachers of the day, heavy drinking and lavish spending marred his personal life.
    Now going by the name of Jean Sibelius, the composer married Aino Jarnefelt in 1892. Their union produced five daughters and was a stabilizing influence on Sibelius' sometimes-erratic behavior. Sibelius' tone poem "Kullervo," based on a Finnish legend, had already premiered the previous year with great acclaim. Jean Sibelius, only in his mid-twenties, was now Finland's greatest composer.


Sibelius at his desk

    Greater success followed in 1899 with the premier of the highly nationalistic "Finlandia" as the Russian yoke grew tighter over Finland. The composition was banned but continued to be performed under the false title, "Impromptu."
    Although Sibelius was awarded a government pension for his patriotic efforts, the new century found him often binge drinking in the barrooms of Helsinki. Through the urging of his wife, the Sibelius family moved to the country in 1904. Their new home was called "Villa Ainola." The home was charming but quite rustic. There was no electricity, and the house was heated by wood burning stoves. Sibelius loved the woods, the snow-laden winters, and especially the birds. He also drank less and was more inspired to compose away from the distractions of the city.
    This tranquil period was short lived as a tumor was discovered in Sibelius' throat in 1908. This was not Sibelius' first health concern. He had experienced a hearing loss around 1902, but this had improved. The tumor proved benign but required twelve surgeries. This brush with mortality prompted Sibelius to give up cigars and alcohol for about seven years. His compositions seemed to grow more melancholy and introverted as a result of his suffering.
    In1914 Sibelius traveled in the United States conducting his new work, "The Oceanides." He was also presented with an Honorary Doctorate at Yale University. Sibelius' symphonic compositions now seemed detached from his earlier nationalistic-romantic period and were thought to be "pure music." Sibelius' music was now held in high regard throughout the English speaking world despite his poor acceptance in the Germanic countries.
    After centuries of domination by outside powers, Finland finally became an independent nation as a result of the Communist Revolution in Russia in 1917. Violence followed as the "Reds," the Russian supporters, battled the "Whites," the supporters of a German style state. After 108 days of fighting, 30,000 Finnish citizens where killed as the "Whites" persevered.
    After nearly a one-hundred-year hiatus, Freemasonry returned to Finland in 1918 as Finnish Masons petitioned the Grand Lodge of New York for a new lodge in Helsinki. The petition was granted, and Grand Master Arthur S. Tompkins visited Finland and conferred all three degrees of Blue Lodge Masonry on a class of 27 distinguished Finnish citizens including Jean Sibelius on August 18, 1922, in the old Parliament house. This lead to the formation of Suomi Lodge No. 1, Silbelius' home lodge. The great musician was also made Grand Organist and held the position for many years. Sibelius is known to have improvised music for the various degrees and ritual work. This led Sibelius to compose a series of nine vocal and instrumental pieces for Masonic ritual work in 1927. The music was virtually unnoticed until an autographed manuscript of the work was presented to the Grand Lodge of New York from the Grand Lodge of Finland in 1935 in token of "friendship and brotherly love." The work was premiered on September 30, 1935, in the American Lodge of Research. The Grand Lodge of New York presented Sibelius with its Distinguished Service Award that same year. Sibelius expanded the Masonic music in 1950 with three additional pieces and a setting of the beloved "Finlandia Hymn" with Masonic words. It was Sibelius' wish that the Masonic music be used exclusively for Masonic purposes only.
    Sibelius ranks with Mozart as one of the few world-class composers of Masonic ritual music. It is ironic that Sibelius' deep interest in Freemasonry also corresponds to his withdrawal from public life and a virtual lack of interest in composing for the remaining thirty years of his life. He produced a few piano pieces and some arrangements. After composing seven great symphonies, he is believed to have destroyed the manuscript of his eighth symphony some time in the mid-1940s. It is speculated that modern musical trends alarmed the old master and also that his drinking had again become a problem.
    Sibelius' music continued to gain in acceptance throughout the world as he and his wife withdrew to his home in the Northern forest. His 70th, 80th, and 90th birthdays were marked with great celebrations including concerts, presidential proclamations, and even the isuance of a Sibelius postage stamp.
    Despite his immoderate life style,Sibelius remained active in his seclusion. He read current events and listened to news and music on the radio.
    Great musicians frequently paid calls, but he was not particularly interested in discussing his music. He also continued to enjoy the natural delights of the beautiful, sylvan landscape.

    On October 18, 1957,the now frail master took his usual walk and noticed a flock of cranes flying over his home. Then he uttered, "There they An elderly Sibelius come, the birds of my youth." Two days later Jean Sibelius died of a cerebral hemorrhage at nearly 92 years of age. He was buried at his home as thousands of his countrymen mourned and lit candles in their windows.
    It is odd that a musician, not a politician or a military leader, would become the most famous patriot of his native land. Jean Sibelius was a complex man and an artist of the first rank. He is now remembered as the "aristocrat of the symphonists," and although he came from a small country, the universal quality of his music makes Jean Sibelius a true citizen of the world. There are numerous Internet sources concerning Sibelius including "Virtual Finland-Finlandia" and "Jean Sibelius and other Finnish Composers" by Brother Simo E. W. Laine. Sibelius' Masonic life is well chronicled in Denslow's 10,000 Famous Freemasons.
    Peter H. Johnson, Jr., KYGCH, P.G.C. of Arizona, is currently serving as Grand Organist of the Grand Commandery of Arizona. He teaches all music classes at Indian Wells Elementary School on the Navajo reservation in northern Arizona. He is also music director of the United Methodist Church in Holbrook, Arizona, and plays tenor sax in the Whitemountain Big Band. Sir Knight Johnson resides at 1524 Smith Drive, Holbrook, Arizona 86025.
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Sir Knight William McKinley, Jr. (1843-1901)
25th President of the United States (1897-1901)
Governor of Ohio (1892-1896)
U.S. Representative (1877-1891)
Funeral Reenactment
Saturday, September 22, 2007

    A part of American history will be brought to life by Ohio York Rite Masons including William McKinley Lodge No. 431, F. & A.M., during an reenactment of President and Sir Knight William McKinley's funeral procession on Saturday, September 22, 2007. Starting at 12:00 NOON at the Church of the Savior Methodist Church, located at 120 Cleveland Avenue, S.W., Canton, Ohio, it will continue west on Tuscarawas Street West to the McKinley National Memorial, the final resting place of our martyred president. This is the 100th anniversary of the original dedication of the McKinley Mausoleum.
    The Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Ohio, Sir Knight Michael A. Himes, and the Ohio Grand Lodge officers will perform a building dedication ceremony at the Mausoleum. Representatives from all Masonic organizations, including the Grand Lodge of Ohio, Grand Chapter of Ohio, Grand Council of Ohio, Grand Commandery of Ohio, as well as various other affiliated Masonic groups, will be in attendance. The procession will include a horse drawn hearse, a riderless horse, and a casket draped with a 45-star American flag. Many other community groups and public officials will participate in the reenactment.
    Sir Knight William McKinley was Knighted on December 23, 1884, in Canton Commandery No. 38, Canton, Ohio, and was a member until his untimely death in Buffalo, New York, on September 14, 1901, which was a result of an assassination attempt on September 6, 1901. He was elected a Life Member of Washington Commandery No. 1, Washington, DC, on December 23, 1896.
    There were members from five Commanderies who escorted the body of Sir Knight William McKinley from the White House to the United States Capitol on September 17, 1901. In Canton, Ohio, on September 19, 1901, more than 2,000 uniformed Knights Templar formed the funeral escort.
    All Masons are invited to participate in the reenactment, especially all uniformed Knights Templar. For further information, please contact: Sir Knight Glenn R. Greenamyer, KTCH, KYCH, at 719 Netherwood Avenue, N.W., Canton, OH 44708; e-mail: Greenamyer@sbcglobal.net; telephone: (330) 478-1579.
    The above information was submitted by Raymond B. Strickland, Commander of "F" Corps, Grand Commandery of Ohio; e-mail: rbskych@aol.com; telephone: (330) 864-2653.

    Elizabethtown Assembly No. 265, Social Order of the Beauceant

    The Assembly held a gala celebration of the 100th birthday of Olive (Mrs. Irvin R.) Gramling, a resident of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania. Olive, seated center, is very active and even attended meetings and their anniversary picnic in August.
    Correspondent Mrs. Leslie J. Loomis,W.P. of the Assembly in 2006, is seated left front, next to Mrs. Ramling.
    Below, the Assembly welcomes Mrs.David E. Alcon, Supreme Worthy President, at her official visit of this Assembly and Westminster No.245. Five new members were initiated. Mrs. Alcon was instrumental in constituting Elizabethtown and was its first W.P., and she is currently the W.P. of Westminster.

    From left are: Mrs.Richard J. Hontz, Mrs. Stanley J.Gresko, Mrs. George E. Pavlik, Mrs.Edwin S. Hartman (new members),Mrs. Leslie J. Loomis (P.W.P), Mrs.David E. Alcon (S.W.P.), and MissRebecca Rogers (new member).

    Jacksonville Assembly No. 220, S.O.O.B. Donates $1,000 for York Rite Temple
    Assembly No. 220, Social Order of the Beauceant, donated the money to Damascus Commandery No. 2, Jacksonville, Florida, for the installation and maintenance of the Jacksonville York Rite Temple, and the ladies are shown below presenting the check to then Commander William H. McClean, now P.C., at the conclusion of a stated Conclave. The Assembly has the custom of preparing dinner shared by the Sir Knights, and they meet and conduct business at the same time as the Conclaves.


    In the picture, left to right, are: Mrs. Ben Jordan, Mrs. William Farrell, Mrs. Troy Wise, Mrs. George Dillinger, Mrs. Charles Middleton, Sir Knight William McClean, Mrs. Clarence Gruber, Mrs. Robert Scott, and Mrs. Ralph Jones.

    Charter Member of LaCrosse No. 215, S.O.O.B.,
    Honored at Commandery Christmas Observance
    Mrs. Wesley (Norma) Denny was pleasantly surprised when her Assembly at LaCrosse, Wisconsin, honored her at LaCrosse Commandery No. 9's Christmas Observance. Mrs. Denny is a charter member of the Assembly, constituted in 1961 and an active member since, serving as Worthy President in 1968, 1983, and 1984 and serving 20 years as Recorder and instructor. She is now Color Bearer.


    In the picture Mrs. Martin (Mary) Callaway, W.P., presents Mrs. Denny with a plaque in recognition of her 20 years as Recorder of LaCrosse No. 215, the only remaining Wisconsin Assembly.

    Wichita Assembly No. 8, Wichita, Kansas, Installs Officers
    All the officers were installed by a 50-year-plus member, Mrs. Carl Hamlin, who our correspondent describes as one "who does beautiful memory work and is 95-years-young!"


    Left to right, front row: Mrs. Carlton Gates (Newton No. 6), installing Chaplain; Mrs. Maurice Caywood (Newton No. 6 and Wichita No. 8), installing Director of Music; Mrs. Joe N. Randall (P.S.W.P.), Worthy President of Wichita No. 8; and Mrs. Carl Hamlin (Wichita No. 8), installing Officer. Left to right, back row: Mrs. Bud Potter (Newton No. 6 and Wichita No. 8), installing Standard Bearer; Mrs. Richard Brown (Supreme Recorder, member of Wichita No. 8), installing Marshal; Mrs. Jack Gravatt (Supreme Treasurer, member of Topeka No. 24 and Wichita No. 8), installing Assistant Marshal; and Mrs. Bill Manning (Wichita No. 8), installing Color Bearer.


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