St Bernard de Clairvaux AMD Council Tonight

I'll be speaking tonight at the quarterly meeting of St. Bernard de Clairvaux Allied Masonic Degrees Council in Indianapolis. Dinner begins at 5:30PM at Dawson's On Main at 1464 Main Street in Speedway.

Looking forward to being there.

Lodge Vitruvian Hosts Author Michael Halleran

Lodge Vitruvian No. 767 welcomes author Michael Halleran on Tuesday, October 23rd, 2012. Stated Meeting will be held at the temple of Broad Ripple Lodge, 1716 Broad Ripple Avenue in Indianapolis at 7PM.

Festive Board to follow the meeting at the nearby Capri Restaurant, 2602 Ruth Drive, Indianapolis, Indiana, (off Keystone Avenue between 71st and 75th Streets)

The Festive Board will feature our guest speaker Bro. Michael Halleran. Bro. Halleran is a practicing attorney who has written and lectured on Freemasonry in both the United States and Great Britain. An active Freemason, he is Past Master of several lodges, mostly recently Justice Lodge No. 457; he is also an elected officer in the Grand Lodge of Kansas.

Michael is the author of The Better Angels of Our Nature; Freemasonry in the American Civil War (2010), published by the University of Alabama Press, and more recently, of Bro. Brother's Journal, available from Macoy Publishing.

Dinner will be $30.

For more information see the lodge website at www.vitruvian.org.

My Friend and Brother Nathan Brindle

Congratulations to my friend and true brother Nathan Brindle on being nominated to receive the 33° from the Scottish Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction in Washington, D.C. next year.

Nathan is the Secretary/Treasurer of the Masonic Society. He is a Past Master and Past Secretary of Broad Ripple Lodge No. 643, Past Master of the Dwight L. Smith Lodge of Research, the current Secretary of Lodge Vitruvian No. 767, the Secretary/Treasurer of the Indianapolis Masonic Temple Association, and he served last year as Thrice Potent Master (the greatest title in all of Freemasonry) of the Scottish Rite Valley of Indianapolis. He has been my friend since high school, and I couldn't be prouder than right now. His honor is well earned, and I intend to be in DC next August to see it conferred.

Huzzahs and congratulations to Nathan, and to all of my Indiana brethren who were nominated for the 33rd degree in Cleveland yesterday!

And congratulations as well to the 174 Illustrious Brothers of the Class of 2012, who were coronetted Sovereign Grand Inspectors General, 33rd Degree, honorary members of this Supreme Council in Cleveland this week.

Dwight L. Smith Lodge of Research This Saturday 9/1

Dwight L. Smith was the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Indiana F.& A.M. in 1945, and served as Grand Secretary from 1947 until 1979, He was well-known for his longtime position as editor of the Indiana Freemason Magazine, and his history of Indiana Freemasonry, Goodly Heritage.

The Dwight L. Smith Lodge of Research is a special purpose Lodge under Dispensation, created by the Grand Lodge of Indiana, F. & A. M., for the purpose of furthering research and interest in the history, customs, and societal impact of the Masonic Fraternity. Our mandate is to study these areas from a worldwide perspective, but with a particular emphasis on how they have impacted the lives of Masons, their families, and the general public in the State of Indiana.

The Lodge meets three to four times each year, at its home in Indianapolis at Indiana Freemasons' Hall.

The Lodge is also responsible for oversight of the Grand Lodge Speakers' Bureau and its Orator's Pin program. From time to time, the Lodge publishes Perlustration, a compendium of its proceedings.

We welcome all Indiana Freemasons with an interest in research to join the Lodge and to submit papers for its consideration.

The Dwight L. Smith Lodge of Research will hold its next meeting this Saturday, September 1st at Indiana Freemasons' Hall, 525 N Illinois St, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204. We will open at 1PM, with refreshments to follow.

Interested in joining? Membership is $15 per year. Download the application here.

For more information, see the lodge website at www.indianalodgeofresearch.com , and be sure to sign up for the lodge Facebook page here.

Grand Lodge of Montana

Most Worshipful Grand Master Thomas Chisholm, the newly installed Grand Master of Montana, has publicly posted an explanation of the recent events leading to the removal of PGM Thomas Duffy. Grand Secretary Reid Gardiner has been reinstated as GS.

The official documents can be read here. They include a synopsis of the events and the portions of Montana's code that apply to this case.

2013 MRF Symposium

It has just been announced that the 4th Masonic Restoration Foundation Symposium will be at Manchester, New Hampshire Aug 16-18, 2013, organized by Phoenix Lodge.

Ernest Borgnine Memorial Service

"Please be aware that there will be a Masonic Memorial Service for our Brother Ernest Borgnine at the Long Beach Scottish Rite (in their Ernest Borgnine Theatre named in his honor recently), on Saturday, September 1st, starting at 11:00 A.M. He belonged to Hollywood Lodge No. 355 and was a 63 year Mason, having been raised in Virginia back in 1949.

"Illus. Borgnine belonged to both the Los Angeles Scottish Rite and the Long Beach Scottish Rite Bodies. He received “33° Inspector General Honorary” and “Grand Cross” recognitions in the Scottish Rite organization."

Sherm Ostrom
Executive Secretary
Los Angeles Masonic Service Bureau

H/T David Williams

Ft. Clinch, Florida Outdoor Degree

Every October, the members of Amelia Lodge No. 47 perform a Master Mason Outdoor degree at Fort Clinch State Park, in honor of George W. Call, first Worshipful Master of Amelia Lodge No. 47, F&AM 1859-1862. The degree is performed at Ft Clinch , Fernandina Beach, Florida with a 'Civil War' atmosphere. All Master Masons are welcome to attend this degree this year on October 20, 2012. There will be a dinner prior to the degree at Amelia Lodge, 1101 South 14th Street, Fernandina Beach. The dinner will start at 3 pm, for a donation of $10.00. For details please e-mail jhwiggeruscgret@bellsouth.net by the 15th of October with a head count of Brothers attending for meal planning and preparations.

H/T Mike O'Kelley

3rd Annual Tri-Jurisdictional Outdoor Lodge in Saskatchewan

The 3rd Annual Tri-Jurisdictional Outdoor Lodge rotated between Alberta, Saskatchewan and Montana, will be held on Sept 28-29, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Registration Forms need to be received by the Grand Lodge of Saskatchewan by September 15th.

Friday, September 28 - Check in at the Moose Jaw Masonic Temple for registration, cocktails, and conversation at 5:30 with dinner following.

Saturday, September 29 - The program will feature the Entered Apprentice degree using Canadian Rite with the Grand Master in King Solomon’s Chair. Lunch will be provided by Mizpah OES and will feature soup, sandwiches, and desserts. Saturday evening’s banquet will feature roast beef with all the trimmings with entertainment to follow.

Detroit Masonic Temple In Trouble Again

The Detroit Masonic Temple is up against the wall again, financially. According to an article in the Detroit Free Press, the world's largest Masonic temple is in danger of having its electricity turned off this weekend.

A shutoff notice is taped to the front door of the historic building for failure to pay its bills. The DTE Energy posting says electric and natural-gas service will be disconnected on or after Sunday unless the account is made current.

“We’re not not paying bills. It’s trying to be timely with the bills,” said Jimmy Romeo, the Masonic’s director of events. “The bill will be paid in the allotted time.”

He said that the private event, which is next on the Masonic calendar, will go on as scheduled tonight.

It takes $3,000 a day to run the Masonic, he added.

According to Romeo, the Detroit Masonic Theater Company who runs the entertainment venue for the Masons inherited the outstanding bills when it took over management of the landmark.

Olympia Entertainment oversaw the Masonic until 2010.

A representative for the Ilitch-owned firm would not comment but said the company would release a statement today.

DTE Energy said in a written statement that the Masonic Temple has “accrued a substantial unpaid balance and attempts to reach a workable payment arrangement with the facility’s management have been unsuccessful … Facility management has not complied with a recent agreement for partial payment that would prevent shutoff. We continue to talk with the management team.”

The utility also acknowledged the important role the theater plays in Detroit and the surrounding region.

“We recognize the iconic status that the Masonic Temple holds in the community and we regret that a shutoff may be necessary, but in fairness to all of our customers we cannot continue to provide utility services without payment.”

Standing near the nearly-vacant entrance to the theater, Romeo listed some of the famous acts who’ve performed at the masonic over the years, including Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, The Who and the Rolling Stones.

The Masonic Temple has two major theaters seating 4,300 and 1,500 respectively and ballrooms for up to 1,000 people.

New Past Master's Jewel

My friend John Bridegroom is a true artist who does magnificent work. His latest creation is a Past Master's jewel that is unlike any you've seen. Called the Wilmshurst, it is available on Ebay from the Master's Craft for a paltry $40, and has two bars for engraving.

Help Needed From Toronto

A Brother is in need of some help from a Mason living in the Toronto area. He needs a product purchased locally and shipped to him in the US - the company refuses to do mail order. If you can assist, please contact me at hodapp@aol.com. Many thanks.

New Malta Jewels for Raper Commandery No. 1

New Malta jewels from Toye, Kenning and Spencer for Indianapolis' Raper Commandery No. 1 arrived with a largish UPS thud on my doorstep last week. We haven't had these available for several decades and members have resorted to cadging them off of Ebay. We're fully stocked now, and the workmanship is outstanding.

Masonic Calendar Website

 An updated calendar of Masonic Conferences, Speeches, Symposia & Gatherings is now a new part of the Masonic Society web page. main website. Click here for the direct link.

If you have an event that would be of interest to a regional, national or international audience, help us keep the listings up to date by sending dates, locations and details of your Masonic gatherings, speeches, education programs, etc. to articles@themasonicsociety.com

Many thanks to our intrepid Secretary/Treasurer WBro. Nathan Brindle for doggedly tinkering with Joomlah to make this work.

Tri-State Masonic Degree Celebration in Oklahoma 10/19-21

Many Brethren do not realize that there are differences in the Masonic Ritual from state to state. It’s always interesting to see how a degree is done in another jurisdiction. Oklahoma Masons are going to have that chance. On October 19, 20, and 21, teams from New Mexico and South Carolina will travel to the Guthrie, OK Scottish Rite Temple along with brethren from those states. They will perform the Entered Apprentice and Fellow Craft Degrees, each according to their own ritual. Then the Oklahoma Masonic Indian Degree Team will perform the Master Mason Degree.

Keep checking at http://www.gloklahoma.com/GrandLodge/GMmessage.html for more details.

H/T to Bill Hosler

Yabba Dabba Doo

A classic PSA from the 1980s featuring Fred Flintstone speaking for Shriner's Hospitals.

H/T to John McAloon

Bumper Sticker

This bumper sticker is available by mailing a check and your mailing address to CP Communications 6440 Pitchfork Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80922. Shipping is free the stickers are $5 a piece.

H/T Cliff Porter

Journal of the Masonic Society #16

The new issue of the Journal of the Masonic Society goes to press this week. Articles include:

The Art of Manliness by Brett McKay

A Journey From the Tavern to the Temple: Part I ‘Drinking in Due Form’ by R. Brad Bunn

Creating and Using a Personal Sacred Space: Why, Where and How by William S. Burkle

Nebraska Expeditionary Masonry in Afghanistan by Patrick Barger

Jo Daveiss: Frontiersman, Attorney, Soldier, Freemason by Christopher Kimmel

The Masonic Society is the fastest growing international Masonic research organization.

GLNF: Stifani Won't Seek Second Term

In a July 20th blog entry, L'Express reporter Francois Koch reported that François Stifani, Grand Master of the Grande Loge Nationale Française, will not be seeking a second term as Grand Master. The embattled Stifani has been at the center of a turmoil over the last two years that has resulted in thousands of members demitting or being suspended, along with his own actions that have caused most of the recognized Masonic world to yank recognition of the GLNF.

A rough translation of Koch's article, courtesy Google:

It's official, speaking through Jean-Michel Grand Orator Baloup, the Grand Master of the French National Grand Lodge (GLNF) Francois Stifani decided not to seek a second term. The dignitary, the center of an unprecedented crisis for thirty-one months, made ​​the pledge after a meeting of Provincial Grand Masters and members of the Grand Council, which started this morning in Nice. The appointment of the new candidate of Grand Master will be made ​​at a meeting of the Sovereign Grand Committee (SGC) by Francois Stifani convened from 31 August 2012.  Why that date? "We wanted the CMS to meet before September, says Baloup. We hope indeed that UGLE [United Grand Lodge of England] would reconsider its proposed withdrawal of recognition of the GLNF. "Francois Stifani has been affected by the announcement of withdrawal of recognition of UGLE for September 12, 2012.  Why did Francois Stifani make this decision not to run? "He did not want to be accused of harming the GLNF while there is a fierce defender, says Jean-Michel Baloup. He therefore sacrifices his personal interest to the public interest, emphasizing that it has not failed in its task. "Francois Stifani reacts positively to the argument developed by Mr Monique Legrand, administrator temporary that it must draw the consequences of refusal to ratify two of the GLNF AG. The argument was first developed by opponents, but he had not heard.  Does Francois Stifani support a candidate?"According to tradition, he will present a successor in the person of Deputy Grand Master he will appoint very soon", says Baloup.Alain Cano, the last incumbent, who resigned July 7.  To Jean-Pierre and Jean Murat Servel, Jean-Michel Baloup announced, not without a touch of humor: "I will write to them telling them that, given the decision of Grand Master Francis Stifani, it would make sense that they does not represent either. Exits to turn the page, let it be done completely. This will prevent them from suffering another setback. "  It is indeed a page should look. But the crisis is it finished so far? Because evidence is to be obvious:CMS responsible for appointing the Grand Master candidate is not representative of the obedience. So will he choose this time a candidate likely to be ratified by the GA of Vénès 1st and supervisors?  Following the decision of François Stifani, the provisional administrator Monique Legrand issued a statement  In my capacity as director pro tem of the French National Grand Lodge, I have read the decisions taken by Sir Francis Stifani, following the meeting of Provincial Grand Masters of the GLNF, held TODAY 'Today, in Nice, at its option, under the "crisis". Mr. Stifani inter alia, decided that he would not run for election of the Sovereign Grand Committee, under the designation of a new candidate to the Grand Master.  Noting that decision, moreover, in accordance with the "customary logic", as restated in Note No. 10 entitled "what is the method of appointment of the Grand Master? (...) "It is imperative to respect, to carry out my mission as assigned following order on motion dated June 28, 2012, I will convene after the summer break, members of law General Meeting of the GLNF, otherwise known as the Sovereign Grand Committee, for the appointment of a new candidate for the Grand Master, according to the rules applicable to the process of electing the Grand Master of the GLNF.  Written and signed in Paris on 20 July 2012. By Master Monique LEGRAND, Judicial Administrator  On this reading, we feel that the standoff is not completely finished. Each intends to call the SGC.I Legrand does not specify the date. They will agree in calling the same institution the same day under two different names, one secular the other Masonic? Me and especially Legrand is based on the famous footnote 10 which advocates the appointment of a candidate with an absolute majority. The conflict on this issue between the two parties would be pending before the Court of Cassation. 

Grand Encampment 2012 Triennial

Congratulations to Sir Knight David D. Goodwin, Most Eminent Grand Master of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States on his installation this past week at the Triennial in Alexandria, Virginia.

David Dixon Goodwin was born on August 15, 1949, in Johnson City, New York and graduated from Union University, Albany (NY) College of Pharmacy in 1972 with a B.S. in Pharmacy. He married Marci Lynn Sternberg on July 15, 1979. They have two daughters, Jennifer and Samantha.

Brother Goodwin was raised a Master Mason in Binghamton Lodge #177, F&AM, Binghamton, NY, in September of 1977. He served through the line and was elected Master in 1982. He served as a director and president of the Masonic Youth Foundation of New York. He was commissioned as the Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Austria near the Grand Lodge of New York in September of 2000.

I really wanted to be there this year, but it wasn't in the budget for me this time.

The Grand Priory of the Reformed and Rectified Rite of the United States of America (CBCS), a body of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the USA, initiated 27 new members as Perfect Masters of St. Andrews, while visiting dignitaries Christian Bindewald and Pierre Noel of Belgium, and Bill Koon and Piers Vaughan looked on. Following the conferral, David Goodwin was installed as National Grand Master.

One of the first items of business was a resolution declaring those who take membership in un-recognized orders after the date of adoption, upon their membership being known would be issued a letter giving them 30 days to submit a letter of withdrawal from the Order, or they would be issued a permanent demit from Templary under the Grand Encampment. It passed with only two negative votes out of 364. A second resolution adopted the Grand Priory as an official appendant order of the Grand Encampment. It passed with only 10-12 negative votes. Pierre Noel in his remarks pointed out that he was here to honor the good relationship his Priory had with the GEKT.

On Tuesday evening, Christian, Pierre, and John Palmer (Editor of the Knights Templar Magazine) were presented with the Knights Grand Cross, and it was announced that Michael Buckley would receive it in England.

Sir Knight Michael Johnson, the Department Commander for the Northwest, was elected Grand Captain General.

Huzzahs to David and his entire line of officers, as well as to Sir Knight William H. Koon for his extended term as Grand Master. I personally want to thank Billy for the kindness he has shown me over the last year and a half while I wrestled with my own personal health challenges. He has much from his term to be proud of.

I look forward to great things happening under Sir Knight David's leadership and his officers.
Note: I don't know the results of the drill team competition. If anyone wants to forward them to me at hodapp@aol.com I will be happy to update this entry with them.

Missouri Lodge of Research Website

The Missouri Lodge of Research has officially launched its new website today at http://www.molor.org. The Missouri Masonic license plate fees officially go to support the Lodge of Research. Membership is a paltry $20 and includes a bonus book every year.

The 2012 Truman Lecturer will be Clifton Truman Daniel, author, lecturer and grandson of Most Worshipful brother Harry S Truman. The lecture will be September 25th at the Holiday Inn Executive center in Columbia, MO, and costs just $20, which includes breakfast. Brethren, ladies and guests are welcome.

Shred and Dump Day

I just got done dumping 16 TVs and computers, along with two dozen boxes of eminently shreddable paperwork from our old apartment complex business. That episode of my life is now officially gone. It was a community shred and toxic dump day sponsored by Geist Chapel, a local church. Took me three trips, but I've reclaimed the garage. This would be a terrific community event for a Masonic lodge to sponsor. It was very popular, and everybody has TVs, computers, old stereo equipment and paperwork we can't get rid of easily. I've been waiting over a year for one of these days.

I still have an old video edit system to get rid of, with 25 pieces of electronics. It looks like a Bond super villain lair in our spare bedroom. That'll be next year.

 Now, if I could only figure out how to get rid of a lawn tractor.

Emblems of Innocence and Honor: The Masonic Apron

Pat Craddock (The Craftsman's Apron, Franklin, TN) is an artist who creates beautiful hand-painted Masonic aprons in the style of the 18th century. This video is part of a new, upcoming exhibit at the Henry Wilson Coil Library & Museum of Freemasonry in San Francisco that will also feature the Museum's Adam Kendall, along with Aimee Newell (National Heritage Museum in Lexington, MA).

Adam Kendall in Burbank 9/4

On September 4 at 8:30pm Brother Adam Kendall will be speaking at the Burbank Shrine Club meeting at Mo's Restaurant 4301 West Riverside Drive Burbank, CA 91505
The topic will be, "Building Temples or Hovels? The Importance of Preserving Masonic Material Culture"

Adam is the Curator of Collections of the Henry Wilson Coil Masonic Library & Museum at the Grand Lodge of California in San Francisco.

NOTE: Shriners are welcome to attend the business meeting from 7.30-8.15pm ALL are welcome for dinner, drinks and lecture starting at 8.30pm. The lecture is FREE and is open to all.
Please contact Simon McIlroy simon.mcilroy@gmail.com or David Williams hotdjdave@yahoo.com for reservations.

House of the Temple Vandalized

The Scottish Rite Southern Jurisdiction's Supreme Council headquarters, the House of the Temple in Washington, D.C. was vandalized over the weekend. The little creeps pelted one of the iconic sphinxes in front of the building with pink paint.

The House of the Temple plays a starring role in Dan Brown's novel The Lost Symbol.

H/T Borderstan. Photo by Luis Gomez.

Freemason Boogeymen

A gunman in Tulsa, Oklahoma is on trial for opening fire and wounding two people earlier this year. Andrew Dennehy wounded a sheriff's deputy and a bystander before being shot by police outside of a Tulsa courthouse. At least one psychologist's report says Dennehy is incompetent, and remarks made before and during the trial seem to back that up. He thinks the Freemasons and the Illuminati are out to get him.

 From NewsOn6.com:

Family members say in the weeks before the courthouse shooting, Dennehy was paranoid, delusional, and having hallucinations.

The report says Dennehy does understand the charges, but can't assist in his defense.

It says he repeatedly said that he's not crazy, but did say the Illuminati and Freemasons work for Satan and are after him.
He said he tried to have police kill him, so the Illuminati and Freemasons would leave his parents alone.

He said he was worried his trial wouldn't be fair, because the judge might be a Freemason or some of the jurors.

The psychologist recommended Dennehy get treatment and said he could possibly regain competency to stand trial at a later date.
Prosecutors plan to call witnesses to show Dennehy is competent to stand trial.

The judge said the competency trial could take two or three days.

Quatuor Coronati's New Education Initiative

Quatuor Coronati Lodge in London announces a new education initiative, with three programs and a lineup of top Masonic scholars. All seminars will take place at Freemasons Hall in Great Queen Street.

THE PROGRAM FOR THE THREE SESSIONS

MONDAY 5th November 2012 6.00 pm for 6.15 start

(Committee Room C)

6.15 Welcome & Introduction by the Chairman: Yasha Beresiner

6.30  The Essence of Research Dr James Campbell 

6.50 Discussion 

7.30 Guidelines and Directives to Students Dr Trevor Stewart 

7.50 Discussion 

8.30-8.45 Close, but coffee & time for more discussion available.

MONDAY 7th January 2013 6.00 pm for 6.15 start.

(Committee Room C)

6.15 Welcome by the Chairman:6.30 Selecting a Subject Prof Roger Burt 

6.50 Discussion and Questions 

7.15 Presentation of a Written Paper Dr John Wade 

7.35 Presentation of a Verbal Paper Robert Cooper 

7.55 Discussion

8.30-8.45 Close, but coffee & time for more discussion available

8.30-8.45 Close, but coffee & time for more discussion available

MONDAY 18th March 2013 6.00 pm for 6.15 start.

(Library & Museum)

6.15 Welcome by Diane Clements

         6.20         Behind the Headlines: Masonic Newspapers and other Library resources;

                   Martin Cherry

         6.45   Veiled in allegory but illustrated by objects: studying freemasonry using

                   Museum collections: Mark Dennis

         7.10-7.20 Break

         7.20   Inside the Archive Susan Snell

         7.45 – 8.30 Discussion etc

THE SELECTED SPEAKERS

Yasha Beresiner, LLB Past Master QC Lodge 2076 (Chair)

Prof Roger Burt, BSc (Econ), PhD, FRHistS, FGS, FIMMM QC Lodge 2076

Dr James W.P. Campbell MA DipArch PhD FSA RIBA IHBC, Fellow in

         Architecture and History of Art, Cambridge Prestonian Lecturer (2011), 

Martin Cherry, Librarian Library & Museum of Freemasonry

Diane Clements, Director Library and Museum of Freemasonry

Robert L D Cooper, Librarian & Curator Grand Lodge of Scotland Library &

         Museum, Senior Warden QC Lodge 2076

Mark Dennis, Curator Library & Museum of Freemasonry

Dr Trevor Stewart, MLitt, PhD Past Master QC Lodge 2076, Prestonian

         Lecturer (2004)

Dr John Wade, BA, MA, PhD Past Master QC Lodge 2076, Prestonian

         Lecturer (2009)

Susan Snell, Archivist and Records Manager Library & Museum of Freemasonry

TO REGISTER: Contact Secretary Gordon Davie gdavie@lansdale.demon.co.uk  T: 0208 460 2975 

Indiana Masonic Home Festival 9/9

The 65th annual Indiana Masonic Home Festival will be on September 9th, 2012.

Since 1947, the Indiana Masonic Home has held an annual Festival inviting and encouraging members of the Masonic and Eastern Star Family and their families to visit the Indiana Masonic Home Campus and the residents. The event is held in the late summer currently in September.

Early on, the Indiana Masonic Home Festival was known as the Indiana Masonic Home Pilgrimage. It was a ‘Homecoming’ of sorts. In recent years, the name was changed to the Indiana Masonic Home Festival. The event, in additional to wonderful festival activities, food, games, and parades, serves as an ‘open house’ to see the campus and tour the IMH buildings, cottages, duplexes and apartments. There are Craft Booths, Fraternal displays, a Food Court and Musical Entertainment. The day caps-off with the annual parade around the circle. Local units and many Shrine Units are in the parade.

During the Festival Weekend, on Saturday, the Indiana Masonic Home Open Golf Outing is held at a local golf course. This event is a fundraiser for the Masonic Home to benefit the Transportation Department and other programs for our Residents. Both events are open to the public and the community.

AASR-NMJ: "Caring For Each Other"

"Caring For Each Other," a film from the Scottish Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction about its Almoner's Fund.

Mullen Pass, Montana Meeting Saturday 8/18

This Saturday, August 18th is the annual Mullan Pass Histotic Lodge Meeting. The Meeting will start at 10 am, and a lunch is planned. Mullan Pass Historic Lodge No. 1862, near the Continental Divide, was the location of the first meeting of Freemasons in Montana. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the first Mullan Pass meeting.

In case of bad weather or fires, the Helena Masonic Center has been reserved as an alternate meeting location. If you need more information, or can assist with the meeting, please contact: John Thompson at jt.mansion@gmail.com or Gary Ellestad at garystringpkrmrbanjo777s@msn.com

Portland Lodge Defaced By Graffiti

KPTV - FOX 12
An irregular lodge in Portland, Oregon was vandalized by graffiti on August 9th. The Sons of Haiti Grand Lodge building was painted with swastikas and racist messages. From KPTV in Portland.

The Sons of Haiti Grand Lodge has lodges in Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Oregon, Texas and Washington. It was founded in 1962. It is listed on the Phylaxis Society list of bogus grand lodges and is not descended from Prince Hall Freemasonry.

Regardless of jurisdiction and affiliation, this is a disgusting act of vandalism. My own lodge has been defaced with graffiti over the years, resulting in us installing surveillance cameras, along with our alarm system. At the very least, every lodge needs to have an alarm on its doors and windows.

The age in which we live. *sigh*

New Haven, CT Cigar and Scotch Night

The Scottish Rite Valley of New Haven, CT will hold a cigar and scotch night on Friday, September 7th at the Owl Shop, 268 College Street. Click photo to enlarge for more details.

Chamber of Reflection Coin

A few of the Brethren at Washington #46 in Portland, Oregon have invested in a batch of custom made Chamber of Reflection coins. They are 2 inches across and weigh about 40 grams. They are asking $20 each with the money going toward installing a mosaic pavement in the Lodge floor. These coins are not being sold by Washington Lodge #46, but by members of the lodge.


Coin orders are being taken by Brother Craig Brown, a recently made Master Mason at Washington #46. Requests can be made at craigbrowntattoo@gmail.com. Payments can be made to the same address via PayPal.

Widow's Son Cigar

The brethren of Esoteric-Sherwood Lodge in Feeding Hills, Massachusetts have collaborated with a local cigar shop to create a new Masonic cigar. Armistead: The Widow's Son cigar will be available through its own website and at Connecticut Valley Tobacconist. The official launch will be in October.


It is part of a Civil War themed line of custom made cigars. The filler is Dominican and the wrapper will be Connecticut broadleaf.

No details yet on pricing and availability. The lodge has a Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TheWidowsSonCigar and there is an official website for mail order sales at http://www.thewidowssoncigar.com.

Montana Grand Master Removed

In Montana today, at a Tribunal in Billings, four Past Grand Masters removed the sitting Grand Master, Tom Duffy. I have no other information than this at this point. Can anyone provide more details? No gossip, just the facts please.

===================================
UPDATE

The following came from a trial observer in Montana:

"Our code provides that a Grand Master must be tried for abuse of power, or unmasonic conduct if at least 5 sitting Worshipful Masters file charges with the Junior Past Grand Master. A week after our Grand Lodge Elections and Installation Grand Master Duffy appeared at the Grand Lodge Office and informed the Grand Secretary that he was removing him from office immediately. There was an announcement sent out (on orders from the Grand Master.) and after reviewing the code, and within a week of the event, 9 Sitting Worshipful Masters filed five charges of Abuse of power and unmasonic conduct with the Junior Past Grand Master. As required by code the JPGM assembled a Tribunal of himself and 4 other Past Grand Masters, served notice to the Grand Master and set the date for the trial. The trial was held on August 10th, and each side was allowed unlimited time to present their arguments. The arguments and closings actually took just over 2 hours. The Tribunal deliberated for about a half an hour and returned a verdict of guilty on all five charges. The code is specific. If found guilty of any of the charges, the only penalty is removal from office. The Grand Master was removed from office immediately. The entire trial was recorded by a certified court recorder, and transcripts will be released at some point."

I have received messages from brethren on both sides of this event, but this seems to be the most dispassionate description of events.

=======================================
UPDATE: 

A document was forwarded to me concerning this action that is posted officially on the Grand Lodge of Montana website, with the statement of the MW Grand Master Thom Chisholm, dated August 25, 2012.

It can be seen at http://www.grandlodgemontana.org/forms/Grand%20Masters%20Message.pdf

New Shriner Watch from Barclay, Based on Dudley

Here is the newest limited edition wristwatch from Barclay Watch Co., which will benefit the Syria Shriners & their good deeds in Pittsburgh, PA. Based upon a Shriner movement design that Dudley Watch Co. patented in the 1920's, but never produced, now created in a limited edition of only 1,000 timepieces. Pre-orders are now being accepted at www.barclaywatch.com. The price is $340, and they will ship in October.

I'm very happy with my Barclay Masonic Dudley watch. It is beautifully made and is a true conversation starter.

12 Year Old Convicted in Masonic Fire

Crescent City Lodge before the tragic fire.

From KEIM-TV in California:

A 12-year-old has been convicted for the fire that burned the Masonic Temple in Crescent City (California) to the ground. Because it’s a juvenile the person responsible’s name cannot be released. The 12-year-old’s conviction is for felony arson, a charge that District Attorney Jon Alexander says carries a 2, 4, or 6-year sentence. Alexander also added that the Masonic Center was an integral part of the Crescent City community, and that the juvenile needs to be punished appropriately. Sentencing is August 27th.

The latest addition to the van, from www.BestLicensePlateFrames.com.

Daniel Tompkins Grave Rededication October 13

The New York Council of Deliberation of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite will rededicate the gravesite of Ill. Daniel D. Tompkins, the first Sovereign Grand Commander of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, on Saturday, October 13th, 2012 at 11:00AM at the St. Marks Church on the Bowery, located at 131 East 10th Street, New York, NY.

This will kick off the bicentennial anniversary of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. Donations to help sponsor this event are welcome.

For more information contact the chairman of the event, Moises Gomez at gomez1rego@aol.com

Thank You

Thanks to my friend and brother Jim Dillman for the very kind article about my induction into the Society of Blue Friars back in February on page 20 of the Summer 2012 issue of the Indiana Freemason Magazine. And deepest thanks to my Indiana brethren who have passed along their congratulations. I do appreciate it.

Author Andrew Hammer in Denver 9/22

The Grand Lodge of Colorado in association with East Denver Lodge No. 160 welcomes WBro. Andrew Hammer, author of "Observing The Craft," on September 22nd. Tyled lodge opens at 6:30PM, dinner to follow. EAs welcome. Suggested donation: $10. Send reservations to rsvp@eastdenver160.com

East Denver Lodge No. 160 is a Traditional Observance Lodge.

Author Michael Halleran in Colorado 9/5

The Southern Colorado Consistory is pleased to announce that renowned author and historian Michael Halleran who is well known for his humorous glimpse of Masonic life in the Brother Brother stories in the Scottish Rite Journal will be speaking on September 5th, and will also have books available. The event is FREE and EAs are welcome. Dinner has a nominal charge of $13. Please RSVP for dinner 719-471-7966.
The Consistory is located at 1150 Panorama Drive, Colorado Springs, CO.
Brother Halloran is also the author of The Better Angels of Our Nature , which tells the story of Freemasonry during the Civil War.

He will also be speaking on October 23rd in Indianapolis at Lodge Vitruvian No. 767's festive board.

Can You Identify This?

A brother sent me this photo. Can anyone identify it, the country and obedience? Click it to enlarge.
==================================
UPDATE
The mystery has been solved. Read the comments. Many thanks to everyone for their help.

H/T to Sean Caster on Facebook.

Unrecognized Grand Master Killed in Detroit

The Grand Master of the irregular Universal Grand Lodge of Ancient York Masons was shot and killed Saturday outside of the McKibbon Masonic Lodge in northwest Detroit. According to Fox News, Grand Master Jerry Sears, 56, was gunned down on the sidewalk of the lodge as preparations were underway for their national grand lodge meeting. Police are searching for the gunman.

According to the Phylaxis Society, they are also known as Mt. Olive Grand Lodge Ancient York Masons.

Regardless of affiliation, it is a terrible tragedy. RIP.

Robert Cooper in Florida Sept. 8th

Boynton Lodge Esoteric Research Group and Boynton Lodge No. 236, Boynton Beach, Florida present Worshipful Robert L.D. Cooper Curator of the Grand Lodge of Scotland Museum and Library

Saturday, September 8, 2012,

Seminar Schedule
9:30 AM – 3:00 PM 9:30 AM : Check-In
10:00 AM-10:50 AM : What is Freemasonry?
 11:00 AM-11:50 AM : Count Cagliostro – The Ultimate Condemnation (Death) of a Freemason by the Church
 11:50 AM—1:00 PM : Lunch
 1:00 PM—1:50 PM : The Oldest Masonic Ritual in the World
 2:00 PM—3:00 PM : Rosslyn Chapel and the Knights Templar – True or False? / Modern Anti-Masonry 

 $30 Pre-Sale $40 at the Door
Boynton Lodge No. 236, F. &A.M. 2701 Quantum Boulevard, Boynton Beach, Florida 33426
Master Mason-only event
Dues Card and ID required for entry
 To pay by credit card online, please visit http://blerg4.eventbrite.com If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact Brian Work at: brian_work@yahoo.com or 561-305-7459

'Devil Worshipping Freemasons' Targeted by 71 Year Old Nun

A Catholic nun has been accused of sending threatening letters containing a white powder to several notable people in the UK, accusing them of being devil worshipping Freemasons, including Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg.

From the Daily Mail, "Catholic nun, 71, 'sent envelopes containing white powder' to parliamentary figures including Nick Clegg accusing them of being 'evil devil worshipping freemasons'" by Anna Edwards:

A Catholic nun is alleged to have sent six envelopes containing white powder to parliamentary figures including Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, a court heard today. The defendant, who is known as Sister Ruth Augustus, is accused of scrawling 'devil worshipping' on envelopes filled with white powder that she posted to Nick Clegg and Baroness Scotland, Harrow Crown Court was told.

The letters were intercepted, three at a time on two separate occasions, at a mail screening centre and the powder was found to be non hazardous, the court heard.

The defendant, 71, of Leyton, east London, denies six counts of hoaxes involving noxious substances or things.

Mark Kimsey, prosecuting, said Augustus accepts that she sent envelopes with letters in them but says police put the white powder in them.

Mr Kimsey said three envelopes were intercepted at a mail screening centre in east London on June 17, 2011.

A worker was checking mail at 5.30am when three envelopes raised concerns. One was addressed to Mr Clegg and on the envelope was written 'devil worshipping', 'freemason', 'sex with thirty plus women' and 'your poor Catholic wife and children'. The second was to Baroness Scotland, and had a swastika on it, and two crosses, and 'stop this evil devil worshipping'.

The third was to Baroness Kennedy, and was endorsed with a swastika, and 'stop these evil devil worshipping freemasons'.
Sister Ruth Augustus is accused of sending envelopes to Baroness Kennedy and Edward Leigh MP.

The envelopes contained a gritty substance, but it was found they had already tested negative for anthrax, and specialist police who were called in found them to be non hazardous.

In a later article Sister Augustus was quoted:

The jury heard that she told interviewing officer Detective Constable Anne Adams: 'The police are run by freemasons. All the top women are in it.'

I love that she's throwing a peace sign in her photo. Thanks, sister.

International Conference on the History of Freemasonry 2013

The International Conference on the History of Freemasonry (ICHF) will return to its Scottish origins May 24–26, 2013, at the Grand Lodge of Scotland. The sessions will be held at the historic Freemasons’ Hall, 96 George Street, Edinburgh, Scotland. This biennial gathering brings together the world’s leading scholars on Freemasonry, attracting academic and Masonic researchers. Some of the finest, original research on Freemasonry will be presented at this three-day meeting. It is well worth saving your pennies and attending.

The deadline for submitting proposals for papers is July 31, 2012. Full details can be found at the conference web site, www.ichfonline.org.

The Quarry Project

The Masonic Society and the Masonic Library and Museum Association have joined forces to establish The Quarry Project. Phase one of this endeavor will be the Conference on Masonic Research and Preservation to be held in the George Washington Masonic Memorial in Alexandria, VA on September 26-29, 2013. The conference is open to anyone interested in Masonic research and preservation, but will be specifically targeted toward two groups: (i) members of Masonic lodges of research as well as authors, writers, and researchers, both published and aspiring, and (ii) Masonic librarians and museum curators.

The conference will draw from both the Masonic and academic communities to provide detailed instruction on Masonic research and the editing of the results. In addition, the recommendations of a committee created to establish a set of voluntary standards for future Masonic research, writing, and editing will be introduced. Professional librarians, museum curators, and experts on display and preservation will provide practical instruction and advice on maintaining and improving Masonic historical repositories. Multiple concurrent presentations will be offered on all three days. A few success stories that will enthuse and inspire you will be mixed in along the way.

July Poll Results: Masonic Education

July's poll is now closed. Thanks to the 385 respondents.

Poll question:  Does your lodge have a regular program of speakers or education?

Yes	193 (50%)
No	192 (49%)

Total votes:: 385
Poll closed 

Speaking in Raleigh, NC Sept 8th

I will be speaking in Raleigh, North Carolina on Saturday, September 8th, 2012 at 7:00 PM at Hiram Lodge No. 40.

Freemasons and non-Freemasons alike are invited to attend this event - this is open to the public. Doors open at 7:00 PM for Refreshments, and talk begins at 7:30 PM in the Auditorium.

Where: 1520 Caswell Street Raleigh NC 27605

Cost: $15 (tickets can be purchased securely online at http://www.hiram40.org/an-evening-with-christopher-hodapp or from Hiram 40 members)

Seating is limited so tickets must be reserved in advance.

For more information or to reserve tickets, please contact Josh Lippy by email at info@Hiram40.org or call 919-656-5807

Looking forward to being there!