2019 Summer

Masonic Tribune The





A quarterly News and Information Publication of: VOLUME C No.4 - Summer 2019 ISSUE
Grand Lodge of Washington
FREE & ACCEPTED Masons




































162nd Annual Communication
Kitsap Convention Center
Bremerton, Washington


June 14 - 15, 2019
MWB James H. Kendall
Grand Master

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Washington Masonic Tribune
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5. Make sure the name and author of the article is reflected on We were able to publish 4 issues of the Washington
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Grand Master’s Message................. 3 6. Video clips are acceptable. Please send me a separate email tion has been made possible through the great effort
so we can arrange for the transmission of your video media and thought by those who submit articles. I am very
Deputy Grand Master .................... 4 footage ([email protected]) grateful for those articles and give great thanks! I hope
7. When sending your article, your email subject field should
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Senior Grand Warden .................... 5 mittee Name or your GL Title should be contained in the ture days to come. The Masonic Tribune is the best
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Junior Grand Warden ..................... 6 accuracy according to your intended subject. effective ideas, best practices and successful programs
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Grand Secretary ..............................7 You can submit an article to me at wdeanm@gmail.
In This Issue
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Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Washington.
Junior Grand Warden Candidates ....... 8 words and put in a word document in Arial format of
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Masonic Tribune Committee:
Junior Grand Warden Candidates ....... 9 WB Dean Markley, Chairman 1, 2019. I give great thanks for articles submitted, time
MWB G. Santy Lascano take and love of our craft.
DDGM Reports .............................10 Publication Design & Layout: MWB G. Santy Lascano
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WB Dean Markley, Chairman
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Summer Issue .................................................... First of May
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Winter Issue....................................................... December 1
Spring Issue..........................................................February 1
2

Grand Lodge of Washington humor we got our work done in fine style. we would never have known this resource was avail-
Masonic Tribune able to our Lodges.
Volume C No.2 - Winter Issue - Page 3 One of the biggest disappointments was the loss of
our District 30 Deputy of the Grand Master. VWB Mark RWB Clint picked up the duties of Grand Secretary
Okusko was a retired Navy Seal and you would ex- and hit the ground running. He and the office staff
pect that he was some kind of tough guy. In reality he have done a terrific job of supporting the Grand Lodge
was a soft touch. He was awarded the Grand Master’s Team and in doing all the essential duties the Grand
Achievement Award last year and was, in my mind, Lodge Office must do to keep us on track. Not bad for
an obvious choice to select as District Deputy of the a rookie!
Grand Master. To our dismay and sorrow, he was tak- RWB Woody has been having an absolute ball this
en by ‘He who holds our fate in his hands’, leaving us year traveling all over the Jurisdiction and represent-
bereft and bewildered. VWB Jim Mathews, the imme- ing me at other Jurisdictions while I could not travel.
diate past DDGM agreed to reassume the collar and RWB Woody has been an absolute jewel in tracking
finish out the year. I am extremely grateful to VWB Jim budget items and worked hard to craft the budget be-
for agreeing to step back into the position. ing put forward this year.
GRAND MASTER We have accomplished a lot of good this year, some RWB Chris has been our one-man Jurisprudence
obvious, some not so much. We had high hopes of
MWB JIM H. KENDALL having a final sale of the MRC by this time, but that Committee (after having served five bazillion years on
that committee) and has helped keep us on track with
does not look like it will be accomplished in my year. some of the nuances of performance of Grand Lodge
There is still some small hope but we are not counting
Remember Rule No. 1! on that. We have however, made very real progress in Business.
getting the property in a saleable condition, especially RWB Cameron I have already mentioned but it is
y year in the East is almost done, and by the time in getting the zoning changed. This process has been worth mentioning again. He brings unique skills and
Myou are reading this, we will be wrapping it in a a process of learning and refining our expectations to experience that will help us step back into the public
bow. It has been an eventful year which is no less the value of the property and the hindrances still en- square that we should never have left.
than I expected. It is just that some of the events were tailed. The Brethren struck a gold mine with these Brothers.
completely unforeseen and unforeseeable. Due to the VWB Chris Haynes and his team have done yeoman (The Jury is still out on the Grand Master.) You could
serious life-threatening illness of me eldest daughter work in moving this process along, as well as providing not have asked for or found better. And every one of
many of my plans for attending meetings and travel- invaluable advice and assistance to Lodges and Tem- them is absolutely dedicated to observing Rule 1!
ing the Jurisdiction were knocked into a cocked hat. ple Boards on handing of their real estate properties. Thanks Brothers! It has been a blast.
Happily, the rest of the Grand Line made up for it, with They deserve a truckload of thanks and gratitude for
RWB Charles Wood, RWB Chris (Not Christopher!) their professionalism and dedication.
Coffman and RWB Cameron Bailey all were traveling Fraternally,
the Jurisdiction to visit Lodges. RWB Chris has com- RWB Clint Brown, RWB Cameron Baily and RWB James H Kendall
mitted to visiting every Lodge in the Jurisdiction and is Chris Coffman have been instrumental in getting our Grand Master
well on his way to accomplishing that goal. Apron Memorial finished and ready for the corner-
stone ceremony. All this was accomplished within the
The highs and the lows of the year are very much out original budget allocated. Count this one as a big win.
of balance, with the highs far more numerous than the
lows. We have been greeted and welcomed to virtual- I have been blessed beyond measure to have been
ly every event and especially at district meetings. Rule given the opportunity to serve as Grand Master and
no. 1 has been in evidence throughout the year. I have especially to have served with the other elected of-
never seen so many smiles and gleams in the eyes ficers. Every one of your elected officers has served
as I have this year. If you look at the Grand Photogra- the Jurisdiction magnificently and I appreciate the
phers posted photos you will see what I mean. I just different competencies each brings to the table. This
looked at the District 11 photos and in almost every year, for example, a second Lodge has been granted
photo you see everyone laughing and having a good monies from the Washington State Capital Budget to
time. Despite a certain amount of silliness and good affect improvements and repairs to their building. If it
weren’t for RWB Cameron’s experience and expertise 3

leaders and cultivate new ones. Strengthen manage- It is my belief that these Six Supports not only apply to
Grand Lodge of Washington
Masonic Tribune ment and governance effectiveness at all levels. Grand Lodge, the local Lodges but to one’s own self.
Volume C No. 4 - Summer Issue - Page 4 I believe Grand Lodge has been working very hard on
4. Beyond the Lodge - Instill a wider Masonic perspec-
tive, inside and outside the Fraternity, by deepening the the first three items and I have every confidence that
connection between members, Lodges, the worldwide we are continuing to make great progress on these
body of Freemasonry, concordant organizations, and things and will continue to do so. Our long-range
the public at large. plan is a living, evolving document. I challenge every
5. Philanthropy - Focus our philanthropic efforts through Brother to participate and help us make that plan our
path to progress and a vibrant future for our Beloved
Washington Masonic Charities. Craft.
6. Technology - In all areas, leverage technology for Enjoy Your Masonry, Have Fun, Talk the Talk, Walk
communications, education, management, charities, the Walk , and ask not what Freemasonry can do for
and deepening the connections of members to our Fra- you but what can you do for Freemasonry, the great-
ternity. est Fraternity ever created.
Once these guiding principles and their respective nar-
Deputy GRAND MASTER ratives had been developed, we needed a statement Fraternally:
that would tie them together.
RWB Charles E. Wood The Long-Range Plan has Six Supports which are...”for RWB Charles Wood
From the table Of the Deputy Grand Master Grand Lodge of Washington VISION is this: Deputy Grand Master
• In 2020, Masonry in Washington is growing in it’s more important than you realize.
was asked at a recent district meeting “do we still membership and has the public perception as an
I have a long-range plan?” Let me assure you that the honorable and positive influence on society. Greetings, my Brethren!
answer is yes. That plan is available on our Grand • Masonic events are well attended and considered
Lodge website by clicking on the GL tab and then on of great value by their members. s I write my final article as your Grand Lecturer, I’m
the Strategy tab. • Lodges are providing inspirational education pro- Athinking about not only the meetings I’ve attended
in my travels over this year, but also in years past. As
As you recall, the Long-Range Planning Committee grams that are both thought-provoking and highly your Grand Lecturer, my focus is on the ritual and floor
submitted a report containing the Six Supports of the anticipated. work, but also in how it ties into our success as Lodges,
20/20 Vision at our 2017 annual communication. That and as individual Masons.
was voted on and passed as a plan going forward. • Individual Lodges work together to expand their ca- There are several Lodges where the ritual work is ex-
pabilities and share their unique talents.
I have pulled the following from that report for you to • Masons have an expanded sense of camaraderie cellent, and I can tell the officers have practiced exten-
review. with other Masons in their Lodge and across the sively. The Officers take their ritual work seriously, and
Those “supports” or principles include: Membership state. it runs over into the business of the meeting, where the
experience, Masonic education, Leadership and man- officers and sideliner members proceed to handle the
agement, Beyond the Lodge, Philanthropy, and Tech- • The Grand Lodge of Washington is viewed by the Lodge’s business in an organized and efficient manner.
nology. While these principle supports were being dis- Masonic community as a supportive organization. The Lodge members also introduce and accommodate
cussed and after they were selected, we continued to • Our repository of educational materials and the their visitors in a proper and dignified manner. These
discuss what each of these mean to us as individuals, best practices of its constituent Lodges are of great Lodges are succeeding! They are gaining members,
as Lodge members and as a Fraternity. value to the individual Lodges. developing a corps of officers that go ‘through the line’
to become Worshipful Master. They have great atten-
Through this discussion, a summary narrative was de- • The Grand Lodge supports the efforts of the mem- dance at their meetings, as visitors enjoy attending
veloped for each, as follows: ber Lodges and is a source of consultative services meetings that are run in a professional manner, and
1. Membership experience - Engage and retain mem- to assist member Lodges in being successful. their conduct is inspirational to all members, young and
bers and their families through an enhanced, sustain- At our 2017 Grand Lodge Communication, VWB David old.
ing, and relevant membership experience. Colbeth asked attendees: “What is the real long-range Unfortunately, I’ve also attended Lodges where the rit-
2. Masonic education - Educate members and com- plan for the Grand Lodge of Washington?” ual isn’t excellent. Sadly, there is usually a correlation
munities about the Fraternity’s intriguing and enduring Bro. David answered his own question saying: “YOU! between this and the Lodge’s success. As mentioned
history, values, practical application of our principles, YOU are the Long-Range Plan for this Jurisdiction. before, the visitors and newer members are in-
and relevance to society today. The Master Masons, the Elected Officers, and the Past spired by excellence, and the ritual is a key part
3. Leadership and management - Strengthen our Masters! YOU are the Long-Range Plan for this Juris- of demonstrating your Lodge’s excellence. If 4
diction.”

Grand Lodge of Washington Lodges are geared toward the esoteric work of the There will be a resolution to be voted on at our Annual
Masonic Tribune Lodge. They may have a speaker on the aprons, the Communication that will allow each Lodge secretary to
Volume C No. 4 - Summer Issue - Page 5 relationship between numerology and Masonic ritual, or check out a copy of the plain text of the Standard Work,
Masonic history. Others may be interested in Masonic which would give each Lodge in our Jurisdiction the op-
authors. There was one Lodge I attended and the “ed- portunity to have a copy at their disposal. Regardless of
ucation” addressed the need for our Grand Lodge in the the outcome of this resolution, your local District Deputy
event of a Zombie apocalypse. still has a copy of the plain text, and I encourage you to
Many Lodges have meals before their meetings. The consult him with questions on the ritual when he visits
meals do not have to be fancy. This seems to bring your Lodge. Even if you think you have the ritual totally
more Brothers to the meetings. The fellowship among down, it is quite likely that you don’t. As I mentioned in
the Brothers is obvious as they sit and share a meal. an earlier article, I finished my Certificate of Proficiency
Charitable activities of the Lodges are important as in the Standard Work recently, and one major thing that
the testing showed me was how many errors were in
well. I believe most Lodges in this State have some my supposedly perfect ritual! My District Deputy, with
form of Bikes for Books or a modification to it. Other the plain text, was able to correct my errors and get my
Senior GRAND WARDEN Lodges have adopted specific programs they are close- ritual straightened out. I was then able to come back
ly associated with. For example, Eureka No. 20 in Se-
RWB Christopher J. Coffman attle is very involved in the Washington Science and and give much better ritual before achieving the Certifi-
cation. Don’t be afraid to give the plain text a look-over,
Engineering Fair each year. Aurora No. 201 is located
t the recent Lodge Leadership Retreat I was asked in Oroville in North Central Washington within a few you’ll be quite surprised!
Aby a Brother whether it was too early to ask to get miles of the Canadian Border. This Lodge is heavily I’ve also heard Brothers from time to time trivialize the
on my calendar for 2020-2021. I told him it is getting involved in charity activities and public service work in importance of the ritual, saying it gets too much atten-
close to being too late. Our calendars fill up very fast. both Oroville and Toppenish. tion compared to other aspects of our Fraternity, such
As one past Grand Master told me, there are only 52 as community service, assisting our widows and or-
weekends during your term of office. You have around Family involvement is another aspect that keeps a phans, and so on. In addition, I’ve heard Brothers tell
28 district meetings, another 20 annual events where Lodge vibrant. I recently attended Concordia No. 249 me they just can’t memorize anything, and that they
the GM is expected and then there are the holidays, in Millwood east of Spokane. They reported on their never could. Some Lodges have membership issues to
anniversaries, and birthdays. So, if you want any of the stated meeting that fell on Valentine’s Day. They held the point that the Brothers who aren’t good at ritual are
Elected Officers to attend one of your special events, a very short stated meeting,then they put on a Sweet- now officers, so their Lodge can survive. We all must do
you need to get that request in as early as possible. heart’s Dinner for their significant others and had the what we can, but you’ll be surprised what you can do
Even though our calendars fill up very quickly, we are Jobbies baby sit for them. Concordia is also involved in if you practice hard enough. I know of a Past Master in
trying to address the perception that the Elected do not several charitable activities,including the Hutton Settle- my area who had supposedly very poor memorization
visit rural Lodges.As I write this article, I have visited ment for orphans, and has meals before its meetings. skills, but over the course of a year, he succeeded in
close to 100 of the Lodges in this Grand Jurisdiction These activities have paid dividends for the Lodge. The learning the entire opening and closing ritual, as well
as an elected officer. That includes Lodges of every officers range in age from the twenties to over 80 and as the closing charge. It was a struggle, but his efforts
size and in every corner of this great state. The oth- most are under 60. This is a Lodge that I believe others inspired several other Brothers to do the same, and
er elected are visiting as well. We drop in on Lodges would do well to emulate. his Lodge’s ritual noticeably improved, and so did the
to find out what is working and what is not. We think Lodge’s attendance and success. While ritual isn’t the
it would be helpful to hear about some of those visits Chris Coffman only thing that makes us a Lodge, it is indeed a major
and the successes that exist throughout our state. But Senior Grand Warden component.
first, it is wonderful to note that most Lodges are doing
degrees and around 60% of the time Lodge is opened Remember, our Fraternity provides the tools for its
on either the Entered Apprentice or Fellowcraft degree. (Continued from page 4) members to improve their minds. Diligent study of
That tells me that Lodges are doing degrees and the your Lodge is sloppy with their ritual work, or if you have these tools and their symbolic uses, and the exercise
new Masons are coming to Lodge. seasoned Past Masters giving the ritual incorrectly, it of memorization, will pay off dividends not only in your
conduct within the Lodge, but also in your everyday ac-
There seems to be a few things successful Lodges are shows your newer members that they don’t have to be tivities with your job, your family, and your interactions
doing that other Lodges are not. Some of these include perfect with their ritual or other aspects of the Lodge, as with your fellow citizens. Find some time, pick up your
educational components to meetings, meals(before or they see Brethren who have previously presided over Standard Work, and see what part of the ritual you can
after meetings), charity and community service, and their Lodge doing ritual work that is not consistent with master. It’s well worth the effort!
family involvement. the Standard Work, but is considered by the Lodge to
I have noticed that Lodges that have some kind of ed- be ‘good enough.’ It’s never too late to turn this around, Fraternally,
ucation as part of their meetings seem to have better and your District Deputies and elected Grand Lodge of- VWB Clayton M. M. La Vigne 5
attendance. The education is not the same everywhere ficers have the tools to assist you in making it happen. Grand Lecturer
and needs to satisfy the members. For example, some

Grand Lodge of Washington to be working, all seven days. Early in the morning until Masons 4 Youth
Masonic Tribune late in the evening, his hours spent in service to Free-
Volume C No. 4 - Summer Issue - Page 6 masonry. Each of us owes him a tremendous debt of
gratitude. t’s an honor and pleasure to serve another year on the
I’ve also greatly enjoyed getting a better understanding IGL Youth Committee. I’m happy to report the Brethren
of the good works done by Washington Masonic Char- who serve this committee have been busy doing and
ities. The Board and its President, along with our fine will continue to do what they do best – representing our
staff do some truly amazing things. Check our Charity Fraternity to our Masonic youth and hopefully setting
out for yourself, I think once you see what they are do- a fine example of what we as Masons do and who we
ing, you’ll want to support them in whatever ways you are.
are able. Speaking of that, one of our committeemen – WB Doug
I’ve only left our Jurisdiction once this year that was Schroeder, just recently took a group of Rainbow Girls
to attend the annual Conference of Grand Masters and friends to the Shrine Circus in Spokane. The kids
in cold and snowy South Dakota. Let me tell you, it were free of charge of course and all had a great time.
Junior GRAND WARDEN was interesting to hear the conversations held among WB Doug also sponsors another youth event each
Grand Masters from around North America, and indeed
RWB Cameron M. Bailey around the world. I learned quite a lot while there, and summer by taking the Masonic youth and their friends
of the Spokane area to a baseball game. Well done Sir!
found the trip, and braving the weather, to be well worth
s my term as your Junior Grand Warden comes to it. A few weeks ago, I went to a DeMolay Installation in
Aa close, I find myself reflecting back on this past Shoreline. Things are looking up for the young men
year. That leads as well to thoughts about all my previ- It is my hope that you will be able to volunteer when this in that Chapter with some new members and a good
ous experiences within our wonderful Fraternity. conference is held in Seattle; I think that you will find core of officers installed. One very encouraging thing
the same value in it as I did.
With my wife at my side, I’ve traveled a lot of miles, to of note to me was how many Masons were there in at-
Lodges within every corner of our beautiful State. I’ve I also attended the Esotericism in Freemasonry Con- tendance. There were a couple WM’s and no less than
seen great little spots that I never would have seen oth- ference, held at the Seattle Scottish Rite, and hosted 15 Masons. Some of the Masons I spoke with were at
erwise and met amazing Masons on every step of this by our own Washington Masons. That was a superb their first Masonic youth event. They were particularly
year’s journey. I’ve been warmly welcomed and for that event, and I look forward to attending again, later this impressed with the ritual work and how much fun the
each and every one of you have my profound thanks. year, when it will be held down in Portland. boys were having.
I’ve been exposed to a great deal of the good that our Prior to my current position, I served as District Deputy, From what I hear and read, the Jobies, Rainbow and
Lodges do, and that renews my hope for our shared and of course Master of my Lodge. Both of these expe- DeMolay of Washington, all have a very busy summer
bright future. That our future is indeed bright is beyond riences were equally rewarding. It is my sincere hope planned. There are activities for all – Rainbow Girls
any doubt. I’ve also seen some troubling things, things that each of you are able to find what you seek through Grand Assembly in Yakima, Jobie Grand Session in
that must be learned from and avoided in the future, for Masonry, just as I have, and that it indeed serves to Wenatchee, DeMolay paintball, a softball tourney, In-
the good of our gentle Craft. Together I know that we help you achieve greater wisdom and happiness. stallations, lots of camping, a baseball game in Spo-
will put all those troubles behind us. I think that as Masons, when we are going through the kane and plenty of other activities. Sounds like FUN!
Some things didn’t surprise me about the job. I was Chairs in our Lodge, we are seeking to make a good, Might be a great time to check it out!
aware of the extreme travel schedule, and all of the positive, and lasting impact upon our Fraternity. When I Which brings me to Masons 4 Youth. You might ask
time I would be able to spend in Lodge with my Broth- have been visiting Lodges this past year, I’ve seen that what exactly Masons 4 Youth. A couple of months ago,
ers, friends old and new. desire, and seen the work our most active members are MW Jim Mendoza sent me a link to a website connect-
putting into making their Lodge a better place. For that,
I was surprised by just how much administrative, behind I salute each and every one of you. ed to the GL of California – masons4youth.org
the scenes, work this job entails. That’s OK though, Just as the name implies, it’s a website with lots of in-
I’ve enjoyed learning those responsibilities as well, and As I close, I would like to take this opportunity to THANK formation on how we as Masons can better serve our
it gives me an opportunity to work with MW Jim, RW’s YOU for honoring me with your trust.
Woody, Chris, and Clint, some of the finest men I’ve Masonic youth. There’s a page on Rainbow, DeMolay
ever met. Cameron M. Bailey and Jobies as well as how to open a new local group in
your Hall, structure of the organizations, train-
What was most surprising to me is just how darn hard Junior Grand Warden ing, along with links to sign up as volunteers,
our Grand Secretary works. It seems that his responsi- advisors, etc. A nice set up to inform those in 6
bilities and his efforts never end. Most weeks he seems (Continued in page 7)

Grand Lodge of Washington the training. Only a fraction of those accepted to the
Masonic Tribune training eventually become full-fledged Tomb Guards.
Volume C No. 4 - Summer Issue - Page 7 Each guard takes an average of six hours to prepare
his uniform which is made of heavy wool and always
worn regardless of the time of year. You look at these
men and you cannot help but think of duty and honor.
They are truly the best of the best.
Duty and honor also epitomize the three Brothers that
I mentioned above. George Washington risked every-
thing including his wealth, his family and his life to bring
about the birth of a nation and to free the American
colonies from the tyrannical rule of the British monar-
chy. Francois-Marie Arouet, whose nom de plume was
Voltaire, advocated for such radical ideas as freedom Lodge Leadership Retreat - 2019
GRAND SECRETARY of religion, speech and separation of church and state

RWB Clinton M. Brown, Jr. during a time which such writings could result in incar-
ceration and perhaps death. Thurgood Marshall was a
Duty and Honor Supreme Court justice and civil rights advocate during
a time when segregation and racism was rampant in
America and argued and won Brown v. Board of Edu-
“The lapse of time, the ruthless hands of ignorance cation of Topeka which invalidated state-enforced racial
and devastations of war have laid waste and destroyed segregation in the public schools.
many valuable monuments of antiquity, on which the Each of these Brothers were from different time, of dif-
utmost exertions of human genius had been employed.
Freemasonry, notwithstanding, still survives”. ferent nationalities and different ethnicities. However,
each had something in common; they were Freema-
hy has Freemasonry survived for over three hun- sons. Each had a strong sense of duty and honor.
Wdred years? Freemasonry existed before the Duty and honor are two words which should resonate Masons 4 Youth (continued from page 6)
United States of America was founded; it has survived with Freemasons. We should strive every day to be our Fraternity on the how to and why’s of getting in-
tyrannical rulers; it has seen countless wars waged and the best men and Masons that we can. We each owe volved with our youth groups. I think we’ll have to take
has introduced to its ranks men of character and talent. a duty to our God, our family, our neighbors, our coun- a look at trying something similar here.
We have seen great visionaries join our ranks. Men try and ourselves. Honor should be our constant care.
such as George Washington, Voltaire and Thurgood What we do in our actions and in our words must dis- In the meantime, how can you support our Masonic
Marshall all sought light in Masonry. What is it about play to the world that we are men of duty and honor. Youth here in Washington? Let’s explore the possibil-
Freemasonry that attracts men of such high character? One of my favorite sayings is “birds of a feather flock to- ities - visit your local youth group today. If you have
When I ask myself this question, I am drawn to two gether”. The guards at the Tomb of the Unknown have questions or don’t know where to begin, contact one of
words: duty and honor. In the third degree charge, we men knocking on their doors to become members of our local committee members or myself –
are taught that “duty and honor now alike bind you to their elite Fraternity. Why? I submit to you that it is I know I’ve mentioned it before, but one of the primary
be faithful to every trust; to support the dignity of your because they display to the world that they are men of duties we have is to recognize adults for their service
character on all occasions; and strenuously to enforce, duty and honor. Brethren, we as Freemasons are men and dedication to serving our youth. Do you know of
by precept and example, a steadfast obedience to the of duty and honor. Like the men who have gone before any deserving Brothers or adults who are worthy of
tenets of Freemasonry”. us, we must continue to display to the world that duty this recognition? You can nominate them for the Grand
While in Washington D.C., the Grand Lodge of Wash- and honor, andif we do, men of duty and honor will seek Master’s Youth Support Award. The nomination form is
ington had the honor of laying a wreath at the Tomb of to join our ranks. on the GL website, or you can email me and I would be
the Unknown Soldier.Participating in this honor, I was I look forward to seeing you all at the Annual Communi- glad to send it to you.
reminded of what the words duty and honor truly mean. cation in Bremerton, WA on June 14 and 15.
The Tomb has been guarded continuously 24 hours a WB John B. Danner, Chairman
day, 7 days a week since 1937. The guards volunteer Fraternally,
for the post and less than 20 percent are accepted for Clinton M. Brown, Jr. Youth Committee 7
Grand Secretary

Grand Lodge of Washington
Masonic Tribune search I discovered that $10 in 1910 was equivalent raising the per capita, I think we can keep some of our
Volume C No. 4 - Summer Issue - Page 8 to almost $300 in today’s dollars and the annual earn- Brothers that are dropping out for Non Payment of Dues
ing of the average worker was around $400. It was or Non Payment of Assessments. We have to have
very substantial investment to become a member and per capita to help support our Grand Lodge. Everyone
to pay the dues. Masonry was very highly respected knows this. But to keep raising it every other year or two
and the members were dedicated and very proficient is hurting some of our Brothers and in the long run that
in the work. It was a big deal to be a mason. The
initiation fee for my Lodge is $200. This is not near means it is hurting our Grand Lodge
JUNIOR the financial commitment that was required in 1910. I We also need to keep an eye on what programs the

GRAND WARDEN am proud and honored to be a mason and a member Grand Lodge members vote to support. If they propose a
program that is going to cost money, they need to come
of my Lodge. My Masonic memberships have helped
CANDIDATES me grow as a man while at the same time enabling up with a way to pay for it. Not just think it is coming out
What ideas do you have for ensuring the long-term fi- me to meet and to learn from many other men of qual- of the general fund.
ity and distinction. My Masonic Experience has an
As in any big business, as the Grand Lodge is, there
nancial stability of the Grand Lodge? inestimable value.In the Future let us not only consid- are expenses that come with the territory. As a Grand
er the dollar value but the priceless value of Masonry. Lodge officer along with the finance committee, we need
I have examined the Grand Lodge
funding sources and budget and I These are some of my ideas on how to ensure the to watch and be diligent about how we spend the money.
find that the Grand Secretary and long-term stability of the Grand Lodge. I am sure that The finance committee is doing a good job keeping us in
the Finance committee have done an there are many other opinions and I look forward to budget and making sure we do not over spend
excellent job of managing the funds the many discussions that will arise in the future. I At the present time we are doing a good job keeping the
available this year. I am told that at love the Fraternity and enjoy the opportunity to learn Brothers money working for them. The next investment
the close of the 2018-19 fiscal year from all the men of quality I have had the honor to we need to try and keep growing is the membership. This
the expenses are expected to be meet. Grand Lodge is not a Building it is all the peo- is and investment to help with the Grand Lodge financial
under budget by almost 15%. The ple. We together will shape the future of Masonry. stability. If we can keep and get more members into the
proposed budget for 2019-2020 shows a very modest There is a wonderful journey ahead for all of us to Fraternity, this will bring more money to the grand Lodge
increase of approximately 1% over the last year. The share together. Let the journey begin. coffers by more per capita and dues for the Lodges. If
main reason for the projected shortfall in next year’s Fraternally,
budget is because of decrease in income available VWB Chuck Compton, the Lodges are doing well, this means the Grand Lodge
from the 2% management fee that was caused by Grand Orator will do better, not only by bring in more money, but by
the almost 20% decline in the value of our managed bringing in more younger members to help build the
funds in December 2018. This eventuality has been craft. All investment does not involve money. Sometimes
addressed and Resolution 2019-9 will allow the value What ideas do you have for ensuring the long term it means we need people to keep our Fraternity going
of our managed funds to be averaged over a five-year financial stability of the Grand Lodge? on into the future, making sure we have people that will
period. This will provide a much more predictable and keep our craft and our ancient teachings intact. We need
consistent income source for the Grand Lodge. To keep the Grand Lodge financial to check with the new members to find out what they
The Grand Master has also proposed a per-capita in- stability for the indefinite future we expect to receive from our Fraternity and combine them
need to be good stewards for the
crease of $12 in Resolution 2019-7. This is a sizable with our teachings. This may keep some of the new can-
increase. I am sure that this resolution will precipitate money that we have or that we will didate to complete all the degrees and become mem-
enthusiastic and spirited discussions that will probibaly get in the future. There is enough in- bers that will continue on to become great officers and
result in a compromise. I hope that this discussion will vestment to do this if we just keep our even maybe on to become our future Grand Master.
take into consideration not only the dollar amount in spending level to what the finance Of course the financial stability could all change if and
question but also the intrinsic value of Masonry to us committee has proposed and to when the sale of the MRC goes through. If thing work out
all. watch what we spend in the budget. as planned we would have a few more dollars to work
I was looking through the books in one of our masonic The 5% spending limit will insure that there is enough with. We still would have to keep in the 5% spending limit
libraries recently and I found several York Rite monitors money for the long haul. that we set by the financial committee.
and other paraphernalia given to the library by the fami- As Masons we are expected to be good steward of
ly of a deceased Brother. I noticed that the initiation fee our resources, namely the financial resources and Fraternally,
to join in 1910 was $10and the dues were $1 per year. more important the membership resources. If we can VWB Darel Maxfield Sr.
That seemed like a very modest amount. Upon further keep the spending in tow where we don’t have to keep
8

Grand Lodge of Washington is doing well. In reality we are gambling when we rely very opposite effect on those prospective gains through
Masonic Tribune so heavily on funds derived from investment accounts membership. While we have no control over deaths, we
Volume C No. 4 - Summer Issue - Page 9 because there is no 100% certainty that those funds will have absolute control over the others. Get the right
be there as was evidenced at the end of last year. men in the first place, we mitigate suspensions/expul-
So where does the rest come from? This brings us to sions. Do quality degree and ritual work and keep
the other roughly 26% of our budget’s revenue source, members engaged, we mitigate dimits and NPD’s.
per capita. Some argue that per capita is an unnec- So how do we best address this gloomy issue? I will
JUNIOR essary tax. Whatever we call it, it is currently $28 per close with I don’t have all of the answers. What I will
say is that we have to ask ourselves, what price we are
Mason. Keep in mind $4 of which Grand Lodge does
GRAND WARDEN not see as it goes to the George Washington Memorial willing to pay to support Masonry? What are we willing
CANDIDATES Fund and our Youth Groups. Like the stock market, to do to keep our Fraternity strong and financially sta-
revenues from per capita took a hit a couple of years
ble? Whatever we decide it will be hard work and take
ago when we voted to relieve all 50-year life members several years. What I do know is we have the absolute
What ideas do you have for ensuring the long term from paying the per capita. power through our choices to address the financial fu-
financial stability of the Grand Lodge? ture or our great Fraternity.
Based on numbers from the 2018 Proceedings the total
number of exempt Masons was 1936 Masons. About Fraternally,
First, a good review is how we are 1000 +/- of those were 50-year life members who are
currently doing business. Review exempted from paying the per capita. This year I have VWB Edward C. Woods
all Grand Lodge committees and ac- been told that the number is closer to 1919 exempt Ma-
tivities, especially anything that has sons. By my calculation that is approximately $46,056
monetary need to support them. It in potential revenue no longer available to the budget.
is fair to note that the majority of our What can we do to address the shortfall?
current committees do not have bud-
geted monies from Grand Lodge and Membership and membership retention are one of
are self-supported. If we are going to expend monies many areas we as Masons control where we can im- SUDOKU SYMBOL PUZZLE
we need to do so responsibly and when necessary be pact our financial future. We must use the Six Steps or
prepared to defend and or explain the need. similar process to ensure we are bringing the right men
into Masonry. We must use the investigation process
Second, we draft a budget that reflects the needs of to fullest extent to ensure that only the best qualified
Grand Lodge and adequately supports all that is es- men are admitted into our Lodges. We must build our
sential and necessary. For items that seem question- membership prudently and responsibly. Give our Ma-
able we need to prepare to provide a thorough expla- sons the absolute best degree and ritual experience
nation and take the time to explain the need for those and keep them actively engaged in our Lodges.
items. Let’s take Public Relations for example. Some
may ask, what is the point? The explanation would be Between 2017 and 2018 we raised and enrolled and
that Public Relations is a long-term investment that will average of 173 Master Masons. In a “best case sce-
pay dividends many times over; that the return on in- nario” Grand Lodge could gain $47 ($20 for each pe-
vestment is the exposure and many inquiries into Ma- tition for the conferral of degrees, $3 for the degrees
sonry our Lodges receive from young men interested conferred ($1 for each degree EA, FC, MM) and $24
in learning more about Masonry. There should always per capita (less the $4 dollars that go to the George
be a reasonable explanation as to line items within the Washington Memorial and the Youth Groups) for each
budget that seem ambiguous or leave questions as to newly raised Master Mason. At the average of 173 new Sudoku, but like Masonry symbols are substituted.
the need for those items. Master Masons that would be $8131. Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3
X 3 box contains every symbols shown below:
Budgets need revenue sources. Approximately 74% Membership alone is not enough. It is only one piece
of our budget’s revenue comes from our endowments, of many other parts we need to address to secure our
bonds, sale of supplies, Grand Lodge registrations, de- financial future. The suggestion above is not realistic
grees etc., most of which are outlined in our code. Rev- alone because of factors such as deaths, dimits, NPD’s, 9
enue from investment accounts rely on a market that suspensions/expulsions. These factors will have the (Solution in page12)

Grand Lodge of Washington ask ourselves why we are doing what we are doing. Leaning in to learn more every day and education at
Masonic Tribune When we punish that driver who cut us off by tailgating our meetings provides the added bonus of nourishment
Volume C No. 4 - Summer Issue - Page 10 them and driving in an unsafe way, why? How is that ac- for the soul. It sparks interest into something new and
tion bringing light? We are only endangering ourselves uncharted and provides the vehicle for lifelong learning.
and others, there is no gain. We are acting out of pure Our craft and its history are amazing and it’s up to each
emotion, letting our anger rule our actions, and letting and every one of us to pass it on to our newer members
Deputy of the Grand Master that anger get in between our light and the lives of oth- and kindle that fire of learning in each of them and this
ers. will also re engage older members as well as it will spark
Reports I spoke of the need in a dispute over Temple renova- the conversation of what they remember and why we
tions to see the motivation of others, and that they were “do what we do” discussions. There is something to be
not just looking to foil what is good. Similarly, when we learned from every Brother as we all have something to
are in this conversation, we must seek to explain our- share.
selves. Yes, we may voice our opinion, even if it is con- It’s a pretty cool thing to see a newer member do their
Thoughts from District Two trary to everyone else, but we must also show what we proficiency and be eager for the next challenge. But
art thinking. We must shine the light of our wisdom in what’s after proving proficiency on the Master Mason
his year MWB James Kendall has the conversation, and let others see the divine in what Degree?
Tchosen a Latin phrase he trans- we are doing. Is that where the learning stops? The answer most sure-
lates to mean “Light to those who seek Earlier I mentioned seekers of the light in our lives. The ly is “nope it’s just begun.”
it.” This phrase can be interpreted simple truth is that we all are seekers of light. We may Becoming a mentor for newer members and exercising
many different ways. This article will be clear in our intentions, asking questions, praying, the New Candidate Education program every time is a
explore one of them, that we should and looking in ourselves and others. Just as likely, we great way to start. Understanding the 6 Steps and how
be beacons of light to others. are quietly searching without even knowing it. We move to comfortably talk to someone about the process is
Light can be many different things as through our lives stopping to look at a beautiful view, something to learn and practice as well.
we go through our daily lives. Fre- thinking of our loved ones, trying to help others. In each PILM is a great place to look for continued educa-
quently we interpret it as wisdom and knowledge. It is we are perhaps unknowingly seeking the light. Similarly, tion and this year we welcomed 50 new Brothers that
also goodness. It is the presence of the Divine Spark those around us do the same. Just as there are no car- passed their Part A. We are sure their District Deputies
in each of us. We should each as Masons be open and toon villains out there, there is no person anywhere who were smiling as they watched these Brethren complete
willing to shine our Light for those who seek it. In doing is content going through life in the dark. their Part B. These Brethren have committed the time
so, we can guide others toward the divine and spread Brothers, we must share our light with others, even as and effort to better our craft and a big shout out to each
our light to them so that they in turn can shine for others. we seek to find light ourselves. We can guide others of you.
We all know people who are in search of light. They are with our beacon, even as we search in others and in the The MR&E Committee continues to partner with the
the co-worker who is looking to do better in their job than world around us for the divine. Leadership Training Committee to provide the Breth-
they need to, the friend who says they are looking for ren with the best 1-2 punch in the business. The Lodge
a better, more meaningful life, the family member, who VWB Matthew Appel Leadership participants walk away with tools to make
asks ‘why’ at every turn, the fellow worshiper who seeks Deputy of the Grand Master in District Two them better leaders and the confidence they gain by
to understand the nature of the divine. These people are learning in this type of an environment builds lifelong
searching for wisdom, for spiritual meaning, for some- Greetings Brethren. relationships with a network of “Teachers” or Mentors
thing more. that are there to assist you along the way.
Brothers, as Masons we should lend a hand. We should hat, where and why are 3 “W’s” that typically start The Chairman for 2018-2019 wishes to thank the mem-
answer the questions of others; sometimes with state- Wmost questions regarding Masonry to Members of bers of this committee for their work throughout the year.
ments, but usually with questions of our own. As I said the craft. The Brothers who have served on this committee have
last issue, we are ourselves seekers. None of us has What is Masonry all about (or what do Masons do), been diligent and hard-working, dedicated to making a
yet seen the face of the Supreme Architect and heard Where do they meet and Why are you a member? difference in our craft and they will no doubt continue to
that voice. We often must answer the questions of oth- Interesting enough this is part of the reason we should greater successes in the coming years.
ers with our own questions, with our own search for the all practice our “Elevator” speeches but what happens
divine in our lives. when the conversation goes a little deeper? Fraternally,
Just as in the last issue I asserted that we need to give Couple ideas to assist here may be to think about what
others the benefit of the charitable thoughts, and that it it means to you to be a Mason? How does being a VWB James (Jimmy) C Norton Jr, Chairman
is very unlikely that they are doing whatever they are member make you feel? What have you learned about Masonic Research & Education Committee
doing for evil purposes, we must in our lives analyze our Masonry? And / or what do you want to learn about Ma- 10
own actions. As we act in our everyday lives we must sonry?

Grand Lodge of Washington “When common sense isn’t quite so common” plary civility.
Masonic Tribune
Volume C No. 4 - Summer Issue - Page 11 As it’s often been quipped that ‘safety regulations are
ne of the most hotly debated topics at the Grand written in blood’, and ‘laws are created because of
OLodge Leadership Retreat the past two years has knuckleheads’, so also has the need been found in
been the discussion surrounding whether our Juris- dozens of other Grand Masonic Jurisdictions across
diction needs an “official policy” on the use of social America for “official policies” regulating the use of so-
media. Many of our youngest Brothers passionately cial media by Freemasons. These codified policies
assert that any such restrictions are an egregious in- range from the ‘weighty and voluminous tome of le-
fringement of their First Amendment Rights, an anathe- gal jargon’ adopted by the Grand Lodge in one of our
ma to fundamental Americanism. Most of the Masons four US Commonwealths, to the comparatively ‘brief,
Conference of Grand Masters - 2021 I’ve asked about the need for such guidelines seem to almost gossamer set of suggestions’ from a Grand
be of the shared opinion that a Brother who remembers Lodge on the West Coast. The Grand Lodge Public
ince 1780, Grand Masters from throughout North his obligation, the degree charge, or has even a vague Relations Committee, after months of study, has sub-
SAmerica have gathered together “to get to know familiarity with Washington Masonic Code, shouldn’t mitted a proposed set of social media guidelines to our
each other, share best practices, and to learn how oth- need another set of rules to govern his behavior. “Ma- Grand Master and elected Grand line officers for con-
ers are meeting and handling the issues facing the Fra- sonic Common Sense”, right? Not as common as you sideration of adoption, either as official policy or guide-
ternity in their Jurisdictions”. would hope. For example, of the 4 or 5 individuals I’ve lines, we hope is somewhere in the middle. As is the
In 2021, they are coming to Seattle! Events will be held dropped from my list of Facebook “friends”, all but one case with our fraternal tenets, we strongly recommend
Brother-to-Brother intervention as always being the first
have been Freemasons from whose political or reli-
from February 20th – 23rd at the Westin Hotel in Seattle gious rants I wanted to distance myself from beyond and most appropriate response when common sense
and at other venues throughout the area. Prior to this simply blocking” their posts from my feed. becomes uncommon.
Conference, the Western Conference of Grand Mas-
ters will be held on February 19th also at the Westin. Last year 68-percent of all US adults claimed they were
This portends to be an exciting opportunity for us to using Facebook, and another one billion were using WB Roger Nelson – Chairman
show how we practice Freemasonry in Washington. Instagram. In addition, Twitter, LinkedIn, Vine and a Grand Lodge Public Relations Committee
(Continued from page 11) handful of other emerging digital platforms are being
used by Freemasons with increasing regularity. Also
growing exponentially, unfortunately, is the number of
informal complaints amongst Brethren, District Depu-
SUDOKU SYMBOL PUZZLE ties and the Grand Lodge office about distasteful social
media posts by Masons. The definition of what makes
a post a poor reflection on our Fraternity is, in many
cases, open to wide interpretation. Ritual and “tyled”
information should never be posted, and the inappro-
priate use of foul language, racist or sexist remarks
should also be a “no brainer”. Perhaps more subtle (ed. – WB Roger Nelson was an investigative reporter for
in its damage, is the effect that a seemingly unrelated KOMO and KING in Seattle for over a decade before moving
into broadcast management. Since 1998 has been the Se-
and subsequent post will have on the world’s impres- nior Account Executive with the KXLY Broadcast Group and
sion of you as a Mason, and our Fraternity as a whole. Phase 3 Digital Advertising Agency in Spokane).Sprout So-
An innocuous photo and post about a Lodge’s pancake cial, February 1, 2019
breakfast, followed later by a religiously or politically
charged argument or disparaging meme may uninten-
tionally give the world the impression that this is the
position taken by our entire Fraternity. Our behavior
on-line should mirror the behavior one would expect to
find in Lodge, where we have not given up our First
Amendment rights to expression, but have voluntarily
(Solution of Puzzle in page 6) committed to doing so with Masonic dignity and exem- 11

Grand Lodge of Washington • Operation Masonic Relief – Partnering with Lodg- (Continued from page 11)
Masonic Tribune es to improve communication, engagement, and
Volume C No. 4 - Summer Issue - Page 12
support for older Brethren, their widows, and To make this a successful and memora-
Masons in need. ble event, we are seeking volunteers
• WA Masonic Library and Museum – Partner- to be part of the Host Committee.
ing with Lodges to provide programming and Here is an overview of the volunteer
support for library and museum collections. opportunities available:
To learn more about partnership and how we can • Airport – People on site at SeaTac
help, Kurt Miller at 253.442.2505 x 108 or kurt@ will greet the Conference delegates and
Service and Partnership to Improve our Fraternity wa-masoniccharities.org can help with youth and get them either on our charter buses or the
and Community scholarship programs, Br. Byron Cregeur, 253.4422 Shrine vans. One of our ladies works for the Port
can help with Operation Masonic Relief, of Seattle and will be coordinating our efforts with
None of this is possible without the help and support the airport. This committee will be chaired by Rachel
ashington Masonic Chari- of the Brethren. Just 13% of our funding comes from Coalman. She has recently retired from the Port of
Wties serves Masons in need donations and grants. Just fewer than 3% of Masons in Seattle, and her knowledge of working with Port staff
- including our older Brethren their Washington contribute directly to WAMC, so one of my will be most helpful.
wives, widows, and those who may goals is to earn your support through our good work. • Concierge – On site assistance at the hotel to help
need us most, our community’s or- people find things to do and places to eat in Seattle
phans (known today as unaccom- It surprises many Masons to learn that WAMC receives as well as provide translator services for our travel-
panied homeless minors).Our work no direct support from the Grand Lodge annual assess- ing guests who may not be proficient in English. This
is discreet, so you may not see or ment. When a new Mason receives the degrees, one committee will be chaired by Mary Beth Short. She
hear the hundreds of stories of those dollar ($1.00) is sent to Washington Masonic Charities. is presently a Division Director with King County and
we help each year, but each Mason Twenty-five cents of a Mason’s assessment is pooled knows her away around Downtown Seattle.
can and should be proud of the fact that the Fraternity in the Charity Fund, which is a Grand Lodge fund. Just
brings Hope and support when it is needed most. We 3% of these funds are available to WAMC each year – • Docent – These folks will join the delegates on the
bring light to those we serve, every day. that is less than a penny per Mason.(7.03 C., 7.04 C. various tours to ensure that they don’t get lost or left
Our mission is to “To create a culture of philanthropy & D., &7.05 BL) behind. VWB Gene Ulrich will lead this team.
to invest in youth and education, provide comfort and The majority of WAMC funding, 80%, comes from en- • Logistics – This group will assist vendors with set
support for seniors and those in need, and to preserve dowments and trusts that Masons and their widows up and take down as well as make sure that the tech
and share the Masonic heritage of Washington.”WAMC contributed to decades ago. My hope is that today’s is properly set up and working in the presentation
is the 501c 3 charitable arm of the Freemasons of Masons will pay it forward, like their Brethren from the rooms. WB John Caverly has point here.
Washington. past. As a bonus for volunteering, throughout the Conference
The WAMC Board of Trustees has recently adopted This past year we have had a few especially generous you will have the opportunity to interact with and learn
a five-year strategic plan focusing on three key objec- Masons tell us that they support our work so much that from Masonic leaders throughout the world of Freema-
tive areas – youth, older adults and those in need, and they have given to our endowment. Some have even sonry – and we’ll even give you a special conference
maintaining our Masonic heritage. made plans for a portion of their estate to be gifted to polo featuring the above logo. I hope that you are as
We are here to partner with and work alongside Grand WAMC’s endowment when they pass on to the Celes- excited to welcome the Brethren to our great state as
Lodge and local Lodges to support and improve Mason- tial Lodge. If you would like more information about I am. If you are interested in being part of the Host
ic charitable efforts in Washington. So, what are specif- how you or your Lodge can contribute to our endow- Committee, please drop me a line
ic opportunities for Lodges to partner with WAMC? ment or other funds, please call me at 253.442.2525 or at [email protected]. Whether
• On the Level Student Success – Helping com- send an email to [email protected]. you can donate one day’s worth
munity orphans attending public school to stay in To receive our newsletter, updates, opportunities, and- of time or you can be there for the
school so they can succeed academically and in life. to stay abreast of how your charitable organization is entire conference, your time will be
• T.H.I.N.K. Civility–Helping young people develop performing, please sign up at this link: https://bit.ly/2IM- most appreciated.
the tools and leadership skills so the next genera- 56hc
tion may improve the nature of civil discourse. Fraternally Yours Jim Mendoza - Chairman,
• Scholarships –Assuring that deserving students 2021 Conference of Grand Masters
with few resources can obtain the vocational, col- Br. Ken Gibson Host Committee
lege, or university education to become successful Executive Director
adults. Washington Masonic Charities 12