PROCEEDINGS GRAND LODGE

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1 PROCEEDINGS OF THE GRAND LODGE FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF WISCONSIN Held June 1-2, 2006 Concourse Hotel One West Dayton Street Madison, Wisconsin Wisconsin Masonic Code, Section Notice of Grand Lodge Proceedings. A lodge shall take due notice of the proceedings, orders, edicts and laws of the Grand Lodge and be governed accordingly. 1

2 MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND MASTER ROGER L. MAGOON Masonic Biography BLUE LODGE Appleton Lodge No. 349 Neenah Initiated - Entered Apprentice September 19, 1962 Passed - Fellowcraft March 6, 1963 Raised - Master Mason May 15, 1963 Past Master Appleton Lodge No Plural Member Twin Cities Lodge No. 61 Neenah Honorary Member Ozaukee Lodge #17 ANCIENT ACCEPTED SCOTTISH RITE Valley of Green Bay YORK RITE Appleton Chapter No. 47, Royal Arch Masons Appleton Commandery No. 29, Knights Templar Warren Council No. 13, R & S.M. SHRINE Tripoli Shrine Temple Charter Member Beja Shrine Temple Green Bay Appleton Shrine Club OTHER MASONIC MEMBERSHIPS Fidelity Chapter No. 94, Order of Eastern Star Valley Shrine No 10, White Shrine of Jerusalem DeMolay Legion of Honor Life Member (White Cord) Milwaukee No. 27 National Sojourners Grand Lodge of Wisconsin Skunk Patrol Grand Lodge Representative to Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada GRAND LODGE FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS Appointed Area Administrator , District Lecturer District Deputy , Grand Marshal Junior Grand Steward , Senior Grand Steward Junior Grand Deacon , Senior Grand Deacon Elected Junior Grand Warden , Senior Grand Warden Deputy Grand Master Grand Master

3 ROGER L. MAGOON Grand Master

4 MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND MASTER RODNEY A. PAULSEN Masonic Biography BLUE LODGE Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason November 11, 1982 Worshipful Master of Elkhorn Masonic Lodge #77, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1995 Perpetual Member of Southern Lakes Lodge #12 Honorary Member of Burlington Masonic Lodge #28 March 2006 YORK RITE Janesville Chapter #5 Janesville Gebal Council #2 Burlington Commandery #50 Red Cross of Constantine, St. Wilfred Conclave Wisconsin College of Societas Rosicruciana SCOTTISH RITE Valley of Madison 1985 Nominated for 33rd Degree August 2006 SHRINE Tripoli Temple Milwaukee Tri County Shrine Club, Burlington OTHER MASONIC MEMBERSHIPS Honorary Member of DeMolay Legion of Honor Grand Lodge Representative to the Grand Lodge of Connecticut and to the Grand Lodge of New Zealand Grand Lodge of Wisconsin Skunk Patrol National Sojourners Milwaukee Chapter #27 (MIP) Sojourners Hero of 76 Silas Shepard Lodge of Research No Philalethes Society (Life) GRAND LODGE OF WISCONSIN Appointed Deputy, District Ten Appointed Junior Grand Steward Elected Junior Grand Warden Elected Grand Master

5 RODNEY A. PAULSEN Grand Master

6 6

7 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 162nd ANNUAL COMMUNICATION of the MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND LODGE F. & A.M. OF WISCONSIN OPENING OF GRAND LODGE The Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin met in its 162nd Annual Communication on Friday and Saturday, June 2nd and 3rd 2006 at the Madison Masonic Center, 301 Wisconsin Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin. A Lodge of Master Masons at 8:30 a.m. o clock was declared formally open by the following officers from the Grand Master s Lodge, Appleton Lodge No. 349, F. & A.M.: Worshipful Master... Eugene R. Reece, Jr., PM Senior Warden... David C. Wade Junior Warden... Kenneth A. Bales, PM Senior Deacon... Brian P. Ehricke Junior Deacon... Mark R. Johnson Senior Steward... William H. Francis, PM Junior Steward... Timothy J. De Hart, PM Chaplain... Michael P. Haley Tiler... Dale D. Mc Laughlin ENTRANCE OF GRAND LODGE OFFICERS The Senior Deacon was asked by the Worshipful Master to escort the Deputy Grand Master and the Grand Lodge officers into the lodge. The Deputy Grand Master was escorted to the East where he was introduced and welcomed with the Grand Honors. The Grand officers then took their stations. Most Worshipful Grand Master Roger L. Magoon entered the lodge and was introduced in the East by Deputy Grand Master Rodney A. Paulsen and given the Grand Honors. He was given the gavel of authority. GRAND LODGE DECLARED OPEN The Grand Master declared the 162nd Grand Lodge of the State of Wisconsin in session and asked the Grand Chaplain, Reverend Ray Heilborn to start them off with a prayer. This was followed by the presentation of the flag of the United States of America by the Grand Commandery of Wisconsin. The Pledge of Allegiance was said and the national anthem was sung. INTRODUCTION OF APPLETON LODGE OFFICERS Grand Master Magoon introduced and thanked the members of Appleton Lodge No 349 for all of their help and for the fine job they did opening the Grand Lodge. 7

8 INTRODUCTION OF PAST GRAND MASTERS Most Worshipful Michael A. DeWolf, Past Grand Master and Grand Secretary, MW Herman A Friess, PGM, PG Trustee, MW Denman G. Kramer, PGM, MWA.D. Anderson, PGM, MW Darrell Aderman, PGM, MW Kenneth W. Shannon, PGM, MW Allan E. Iding, PGM, MW Russell R. Selbo, PGM, PG Treasurer, MW William E. Day, PGM and Grand Trustee, MW George A. Wallinger, PGM, PGS, PG Trustee, PGM, MW Carl J. Wussow, PGM and Grand Trustee, MW Beecher Daniels, PGM, MW Dean T. Massey, PGM, MW Kingman D. Loomis, PGM, PG Trustee, MW Robert E. Moore, PGM, MW Charles E. White, PGM, MW John W. Hein, PGM, PG Treasurer, PG Lecturer, MW Lawrence L. Myers, PGM, MW Richard E. Black, PGM, MW Bruce S. Sim, PGM, PGS and G Trustee, MW James H. Olson, PGM. All were given the Grand Honors. INTRODUCTION OF DISTINGUISHED GUESTS R.W Reginald S. Kuhn, Senior Grand Warden of Nebraska W. Brother Roger Deininger, Grand Tiler of Nebraska R.W. Dennis Robinson, Senior Grand Warden of South Dakota M.W. David W. Miller, Past Grand Master and Grand Treasurer of Illinois Illus. Sir James Linderman, Potentate, Tripoli Shrine in Wisconsin Illus. Sir James Slezak, Sr., Potentate, Beja Shrine in Wisconsin W. Brother Brian Hudy, Grand High Priest, Grand Chapter R.A.M. of Wisconsin W. Brother Parker W. Dow, Most Illus. Grand Master, Grand Council R.S.M. of Wisconsin W. Brother Charles Kolbe, Grand Commander Grand Commandery K.T. of Wisconsin Illus. Brother Norman L. Christianson, Grand Minister of State and Deputy for Scottish Rite of Wisconsin Helen Wheeler, Worthy Grand Matron, Order of Eastern Star in Wisconsin W. Brother John Knee, Worthy Grand Patron, Order of Eastern Star in Wisconsin Annette Kidder, Grand Royal Matron, Grand Court Order of Amaranth James Heady, Grand Royal Patron, Grand Court Order of Amaranth Brother Eric Gross, State Master Councilor Order of DeMolay in Wisconsin Abbey Schwartz, Grand Bethel Honored Queen, Job s Daughters of Wisconsin Meliora Kifer, Grand Worthy Advisor, Rainbow for Girls in Wisconsin Grand Master Magoon asked all to give the distinguished guests the Grand Honors. THREE PILLARS C.E.O. ANNUAL REPORT To the Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin: Your Three Pillars Senior Living Communities have experienced a most historic year. Last July, we celebrated the centennial of Brother Willard Van Brunt s original contribution to Wisconsin Masonry. The preparation and celebration of the Centennial festivities allowed many friends of Three Pillars to reflect on the successes Masonry has seen in providing a quality of life and quality care to thousands of Wisconsin brothers and sisters over the last century. We have been very blessed to have received dedicated leadership, strong fraternal support, and caring and skilled providers throughout the years. 8

9 In the midst of reflecting on our proud history, we were also heavily involved in positioning Three Pillars to remain a constant source of quality for the coming decades. Construction proceeded without complication on our new Compass Point Catered Living facility. On September 17, 2005, Grand Master Magoon revealed and dedicated the cornerstone for Compass Point, in what is still one of the most beautiful and symbolic of Masonic ceremonies. On March 7, 2006, Compass Point opened with the move of 33 apartments from the Wisconsin Masonic Home. These charter residents have taken to their new home, and have proven right our concept of Catered Living an individualized level of support to provide each resident with their maximum level of independence. One month later, Compass Point saw 45 occupied apartments with 5 more move-ins scheduled, and drew intense interest from other senior care providers including some in Minnesota and Illinois. Finally, on May 13, an excited crowd joined us in celebrating our Grand Opening and ribbon-cutting. Beyond the addition of Compass Point, our independent living apartments Village on the Square received $1,000,000 of upgrades and modernizing to again place it at the forefront of senior apartment living. Mason Woods continues to be a popular choice for up north relaxed senior living. The Masonic Center for Health & Rehab and Riverside Lodge continue to excel at providing more intense levels of support and care, and once again were rewarded with shining inspection results by the State authorities. During the year, I am pleased to report that we reached our goals for contributions and pledges towards our Building on a Vision capital campaign. A special thank you goes out to all the individuals, lodges, and groups that selflessly gave or pledged support towards our new endeavor. Your generosity will help assure the stability of services and level of quality that Wisconsin Masons have come to expect for their fellow brothers and sisters. With the advent of Compass Point, many have asked of the future of the Wisconsin Masonic Home, known as Van Brunt Hall. As of the writing of this report, no definitive plans have been set, but an extremely competent group of brethren are contemplating its future for the good of Three Pillars and Wisconsin Masonry. Everyone has agreed that if at all possible, the building should be reused for a beneficial purpose. Finally, the staff, residents, and Board are preparing to host the annual conference of the Masonic Homes Executives Association of North America. From June 17th through the 20th, over 200 representatives from Masonic and OES Homes around the country will be attending this year s conference in Lake Geneva planned and hosted by Three Pillars. The highlight of the conference will be an afternoon outing to our campus in Dousman with tours and a picnic like many in Wisconsin have experienced over the years. We thank you for your on-going support and commitment to those brothers and sisters that helped build this great fraternal family in Wisconsin. We will continue to make the commitment to you, that we will strive to consistently provide a caring, quality environment for all those that call Three Pillars home. 9 Fraternally submitted, Mark A. Strautman, President & C.E.O.

10 WISCONSIN MASONIC HOME BOARD ANNUAL REPORT To the Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin: This past year has been an extremely busy one with many meetings, discussions, walk thoughs and decisions. When I am on the Dousman campus and look around I am so proud of what has been accomplished as a result of the time given by many folks. With the consent of the Masonic Home Board the leadership given by Brother Mark Strautman, CEO and President of Three Pillars during this past year has been outstanding. Under his direction we have had significant renovation work at MVOS to make it a more inviting independent living facility. We have furnished and completed for occupancy Compass Point our Catered Living facility. There has been on going renovation work done on our Health Care and Rehabilitation facility. As the area around Three Pillars has been growing these changes were much needed to meet the ever expanding competition. All members of the Masonic family should be very proud of these outstanding facilities all of which are part of Three Pillars. All of our former residents of Van Brunt Hall and Bark River Apartments are now in their new home. All were moved over in one day. Many had their new homes all set up and most of their boxes unpacked in one day. Thanks to a wonderful staff, family and volunteers. Now the decision must be made as to the future of Van Brunt Hall and Bark River. There is a committee (Task Force) appointed that will be working on the many possibilities for these buildings. The Home Board has been very involved with a reorganization of our operating structure. With this reorganization our committees have changed to, Governance, Outreach, Oversight, Planning and Finance and Audit. We have asked Grand Lodge Line Officers to serve as a voting member for a rotating one year term on each of these committees. The Wisconsin Masonic Home Board has also increased the Grand Lodge voting membership on the Board to two voting members. Amendments to our Bylaws were also implemented to cover these changes. The Wisconsin Masonic Home Board is the best. My conversations with others in this same field have assured me of this. Each of the members of our Board has shared their expertise to help make Three Pillars an outstanding facility and one that others admire. Contributing to this admiration is the support given by the members of the Masonic family in Wisconsin. Many have contributed financially; others have given of their time and talent. I would like to thank each one for this. I do hope all of you can visit YOUR Masonic Home soon as it is your Masonic charity. Brother Roger, Most Worshipful Grand Master, you started your association with Three Pillars with many questions and concerns. As you attended the various meetings involved with Three Pillars you became much more acquainted with our facilities and operations. Your support of Three Pillars has been outstanding and is much appreciated. Thank you so much. As Chair of the Wisconsin Masonic Home Board I would like to express my appreciation for the opportunity to come before you and say a special thank you for allowing me to speak and share my pride in Three Pillars with each of you. Respectfully submitted, Theda J. Andres, Wisconsin Masonic Home Board 10

11 REMARKS BY DISTINGUISHED GUESTS Remarks were given by the following dignitaries: Abbey Schwartz, Grand Bethel Honored Queen, Meliora Kifer, Grand Worthy Advisor, Eric Gross, State Master Councilor, Helen Wheeler, Worthy Grand Matron, Annette Kidder, Grand Royal Matron, James Slezak, Potentate of Beja Shrine. The Grand Marshal escorted those brothers and sisters out of the lodge room who were not entitled to be present in the tiled lodge and the Grand Lodge was declared formal. ROLL CALL OF OFFICERS Grand Master Magoon asked the Grand Secretary to call the roll of Grand Lodge officers and asked them to remain standing after their name was called. Grand Secretary DeWolf called the following: MW Grand Master Roger L. Magoon, RW Deputy Grand Master Rodney A. Paulsen, RW Senior Grand Warden J. B. Van Hollen, RW Junior Grand Warder John W. Wilke, RW Grand Treasurer James M. Hays, RW Grand Secretary Michael A. DeWolf, W Grand Chaplain Ray D. Heilborn, W Grand Lecturer Ronald H. Glaunert, W Senior Grand Deacon Craig S. Campbell, W Junior Grand Deacon Joseph B. Harker, W Senior Grand Steward Davey L. White, Jr., W Junior Grand Steward Dennis V. Siewert, W Grand Marshal Richard A. Vande Sande, W Grand Orator Frank J. Strubel, W Grand Tiler Kurt R. Magoon, W Deputy, District #1 L. Arby Humphrey, W. Deputy, District #2 William Beetcher, W Deputy, District #3 Albert W. Jurgens, W Deputy, District #4 Guy K. Gooding, W Deputy, District #5 Tomas C. Tourville, W Deputy, District #6 Jeffrey B. Brewer, W. Deputy, District #7 Daniel L. Slavik, W Deputy, District #8 Emmett J. Reilly, W Deputy, District #9 LeRoy R. Huber, W Deputy, District #10 J. Patraick Storrs, W Deputy, District #11 James G. Jante, W. Deputy, District #12 Donald W. Hensiak. All were given the Grand Honors. PRELIMINARY REPORT OF CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE Brother Scott Graske, Masonic Center Administrator, on behalf of the Credentials Committee, reported to the Grand Lodge that out of a total of 190 chartered lodges, 166 have registered. A quorum of lodges was present. A constitutional number of the Grand Lodge officers were present and the Grand Lodge was in order to proceed with any business that may come before it. UNFINISHED BUSINESS COMMITTEE REPORT To the Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin: At the 161st Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, held on June 13th and 14th, 2005, six new resolutions were presented. Three resolutions were adopted and three were defeated. After a thorough review of the 2005 proceedings, the Unfinished Business Committee concludes that there is no other unfinished business from the 2005 Annual Communication. 11

12 Respectfully submitted, Keith D. Chamberlain, PGM, Chairman Michael A. DeWolf, PGM Grand Secretary James M. Hays, Grand Treasurer Report accepted. APPROVAL OF THE 2005 PROCEEDINGS Grand Secretary Michael A. DeWolf moved that the 2005 Proceedings be approved as printed and distributed. The motion was seconded and passed. RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE REPORT To the Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin; Nine resolutions were received by Grand Lodge prior to the submission deadline and forwarded to the Resolutions Committee. One of the resolutions, dealing with floor work, was withdrawn after consultation with the Worshipful Master of the submitting Lodge. Resolutions , and are the usual code requirements and deal with annual budget, per Capita tax, and place of the annual communication for the year Resolution requests a per capita tax of $ Resolution 3 sets Madison as the site for the Annual Communication of Each requires a majority vote. Resolution submitted by the Grand Secretary seeks to modify Grand Lodge Standing committees by eliminating the Committee on Research. Resolution Number , submitted by the Code Revision Committee, provides a method by which a lodge may seek to withdraw charges before trial, and sets a timetable to assure prompt response to the Lodge. Resolution repeals Sec (first paragraph) and modifies 64.06(a) of the Code authorizing lodges to serve alcoholic beverages on Lodge property and in Lodge for Table Lodges and festival communications Section (b), adopted in 2004, is deleted, and replaced with a ban on lodges or temple associations from holding a license to sell alcoholic beverages with the intent of operating a tavern.. A new paragraph (c) requires a dispensation from the Grand Master for lodges to meet in an establishment, which sells alcoholic beverages. Resolutions 4, 5 and 6 require an 80% vote for passage. Resolution deals with language used by the Senior Deacon in the EA degree, adding symbolically to the words. This affects the pure work, and must be laid over to Grand Lodge 2007, and will require an 80% vote for adoption. Resolution is a request by the Grand Lodge trustees to confirm the sale of two parcels of real estate at Dousman to St Mary s Episcopal Church, including the parcel the Church now leases from Grand Lodge. Majority vote needed. 12

13 Each resolution has been approved as to form by the Resolution Committee and submitted to the Executive Committee and Jurisprudence Committee for review. Report accepted RESOLUTIONS No. Purpose Proposed By 13 Respectfully submitted, Jack E. Keyes, Chairman Thomas W. Godfrey James H. Olson, PGM Bruce S Sim, PGM Archie E Simonson To adopt a budget for fiscal year Expenditures Committee To provide for Per Capita Tax Expenditures Committee To designate place of holding Annual Grand Secretary Communication in June, To eliminate RESEARCH as a Grand Secretary standing committee To add a new code section to provide Code Revisions Committee for withdrawal of charges brought by a lodge pursuant to the Masonic Code To allow for alcohol to be consumed McKinley Lodge No. 307 in Masonic lodge buildings To clarify action of the SD when La Belle Lodge No. 84 applying a shp ist To authorize sale of leased and vacant Grand Lodge Trustees lands pursuant to Sec (2) JURISPRUDENCE COMMITTEE REPORT To the Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin; In conformity with the duty placed upon the Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence my Section of the Masonic Code of Wisconsin to report to the Grand Lodge on the proposed resolutions to be brought before the Annual Communication, as well as all decisions, edicts, opinions, and dispensations of the Grand Master and by-law changes of the constituent lodge, the committee reports as follows: RESOLUTIONS Eight Resolutions were received prior to the deadline for submission to this session of Grand Lodge. (Resolution Number will be laid over to the 2007 Grand Lodge.)

14 RESOLUTION NO , to adopt a budget for the fiscal year ; said Resolution is approved as to form and legality and requires a majority vote. RESOLUTION NO , to provide for Per Capita Tax; said Resolution is approves as to form and legality and requires a majority vote. RESOLUTION NO , to designate the place of holding Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge F. & A.M. of Wisconsin in June of 2008; said Resolution is approved as to form and legality and requires a majority vote. RESOLUTION NO , to eliminate RESEARCH as a standing committee; said Resolution is approved as to form and legality and requires a 75% vote. RESOLUTION NO , to add a new Code section to provide for withdrawal of charges brought by a lodge pursuant to the Masonic Code; said Resolution is approved as to form and legality and requires a 75% vote. RESOLUTION NO , to allow for alcohol to be consumed in Masonic lodge buildings; said Resolution is approved as to form and legality and requires a 75% vote. RESOLUTION NO , to clarify action of the SD when applying a shp ist by adding the word symbolically; said Resolution is approved as to form and legality and requires an 80% vote. This Resolution will be laid over to the 2007 Annual Communication RESOLUTION NO , to authorize sale of leased and vacant lands pursuant to Sec to St. Mary s Episcopal Church for $400,000; said Resolution is approved as to form and legality and requires a majority vote. DECREES The Grand Master issued no Decrees this year. CHANGES IN BY-LAWS OF CONSTITUENT LODGES Eleven (11) Lodges requested by-laws changes (changes in dues, meeting dates/ places/times). The Committee reviewed them in detail for legality and conformity with the Code. DISPENSATIONS OF THE GRAND MASTER During the term of his office, Grand Master Roger Magoon issued One Hundred Fourteen (114) dispensations# #3343 (June 12, 2005 June 2, 2006): Permission to Serve Beer or Wine at a Table Lodge Permission to Change Stated Meeting Location... 9 Permission to Change Day and or Time of State Meeting... 6 Permission to Waive Required Time Periods Between Degrees... 9 Permission to Hold an Annual Texas Hold em Tournament for Fundraising... 2 Permission to Proceed with Degrees for Multiple Candidates... 1 Permission to Hold a Joint Stated Communication with another WI Lodge

15 Permission to Call a Special Meeting or Communication... 9 Permission to Have a Joint Communication and Fraternal visits Between Sister Grand Jurisdictions... 3 Permission to Hold Joint Installations with Job s Daughters Bethels... 1 Permission from Elected Lodge Senior Warden to also act as Lodge Chaplain... 1 Permission for a Lodge to Hold an Installation of Officers on a Sunday... 1 Permission for a Past Master of a Lodge to act as Pro-Tem Master For Rest of Term due to Elected Master s Call to Active Duty... 1 Permission to Operate Under a Blanket Dispensation to Serve Wine or Beer... 4 TOTAL 114 The Committee is of the opinion that all the dispensations were properly issued pursuant to the Masonic Code. EDICTS The Grand Master Issued one Edict this year, to all Constituent Lodges on February 15, 2006, pertaining specifically to the Man to Mason to Shrine event to be held March 25th in Madison and April 29, 2006 in Green Bay and Milwaukee: Granting Dispensation to waive the requirements as stated in Chapter of the Wisconsin Code, to allow more than one candidate to receive all parts of the degrees at the same time, with the use of exemplars as appropriate; and Granting dispensation to waive the requirements as stated in Chapter of the Wisconsin Masonic Code, to allow the candidates to demonstrate proficiency as defined and accepted by the Grand Lecturer and the District Lecturers and as defined in the White Paper for Masonic Classes, prior to the Fellowcraft and Master Mason degree, and Granting dispensation to waive the requirements as stated in Chapters and 78.03, to allow Wisconsin residents who have not resided in Wisconsin for a year to petition a lodge for this event. All cases involving the residence requirement will be handled on an individual basis by the Grand Master and in concurrence with the Grand Secretary; and Granting dispensation to waive the requirement as stated in Chapters and of the Wisconsin Masonic Code, to allow the lodge to receive a petition for the degrees and take action on that petition at a stated or a special communication called for that purpose only; and to allow that the time element for receiving and balloting on a petition be reduced to a time period that the lodge feels adequate to receive, interview and ballot upon such petition and to allow an adequate period of time between the receiving, balloting and the initiation of a candidate as the lodge feels appropriate. It is the opinion of the Committee that this Edict was lawfully issued. 15

16 OTHER MATTERS The Jurisprudence Committee has also given advice to the Grand Master during the year. Report accepted. Submitted By: Grand Secretary Section(s) Affected: RESOLUTION NUMBER: Vote Required for Adoption: Majority Thomas W. Godfrey, Chairman Jurisprudence Committee Purpose: Designate the place of holding Annual Communication in June 2008 (Note: deletions are indicated by strike through; additions are indicated by underline; omitted text is indicated by ***) RESOLVED, that the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin for the year 2008 shall be held in the City of Madison, Wisconsin. Resolution Adopted Submitted By: Grand Secretary RESOLUTION NUMBER: Section(s) Affected: and of the Masonic Code of Wisconsin Vote Required for Adoption: three-fourth (3/4) Purpose: To eliminate RESEARCH as a Standing Committee (Note: deletions are indicated by strike through; additions are indicated by underline; omitted text is indicated by ***) RESOLVED, That Section Standing Committees be modified by deleting RESEARCH at subparagraph 11, and renumbering as follows, and that Section Research be deleted entirely: Standing Committees. The following shall be the Standing Committees of the Grand Lodge: 1. Masonic Jurisprudence 2. Lodge Charters and Consolidations 3. Expenditures 4. Resolutions 5. Foreign Relations 6. Masonic Education 16

17 7. Nomination 8. Personnel 9. Executive 10. Temple Plans and Financing 11. Research Grand Lodge Planning Annual Communication Appeals and Grievances The Committee on Esoteric Work Masonic Code Strategic Planning Committee Youth Group Funding Committee Research. It shall be the duty of the Research Committee, under the direction of the Grand Master, to conduct research and statistical surveys and report to the Grand Lodge or the Grand Master. (Deleted at Grand lodge 2006) Resolution Adopted REMARKS ON BEHALF OF DISTINGUISHED GUESTS David W. Miller, Past Grand Master and Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge of Illinois gave remarks on behalf of the visiting brethren attending from other jurisdictions. REMARKS ON BEHALF OF PAST GRAND MASTERS Past Grand Master Bruce S. Sim, gave remarks on behalf of all of the Past Grand Masters. GRAND MASTER MAGOON S REPORT To the Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin: The Masonic Code of Wisconsin, Section and long established practices provide direction that the Grand Master is bound to make a formal report the Grand Lodge regarding his activities, decisions, official actions and any recommendations for the good of the Craft. First I would like to thank each and every one of you for your support and for allowing me the opportunity of serving our great Masonic Fraternity as your Grand Master from June 2005 until June This has been a marvelous experience and one that I will remember and treasure for the rest of my life. To have the opportunity to be able to represent this great Fraternity and its members has truly been an honor. As most of you know, because of the ill health of my wife, Marlene, I have had to seek the help of our Grand Lodge Family for their commitment and support. At this time I would like thank everyone for stepping up to the plate and helping me out. In Appreciation: When Marlene had her stroke in January of 2005, I had a tremendous decision to make. Should I give up the many years of service I had put in to this wonderful 17

18 Fraternity, or could I continue to captain this ship of Wisconsin Freemasonry as your Grand Master? I was encouraged to continue by my son, Kurt Magoon, and my best friend, and your Grand Treasurer, James M. Hays. If it wasn t for their confidence and support, I would not be here today. My son, Kurt assisted me emotionally, and kept my spirits high even in the roughest situations. On 99% of my travels, Brother and friend Jim Hays was my faithful driver and sounding block. He was my Jeep Driver, as he would say, as we traveled to many meetings, visiting lodges, and always assisting me in being able to serve the craft. As we traveled we discussed many ways to maintain and increase the image of Freemasonry. As we were brainstorming, we, or I should say, he put together my 5-year budget plan for our Trustees, and as one our Trustees mentioned it was the first time they had seen a budget stretched out 5 years. Also a special THANKS to his wife, Peggy, for taking care of my wife, so we could be out serving the craft, whether it was for a night, or even staying over for a few days. When she couldn t help, my sister Helen McLellan would step to the plate and help, and I would like to thank her as well. Grand Lodge Officers: I would like to thank all of the elected and appointed Grand Lodge Officers for their support, dedication and commitment in keeping Freemasonry alive in Wisconsin. They were always there to assist and give all of the lodges guidance when needed. Grand Lodge Staff: No one could have success in his Masonic career as the Grand Master of Masons in Wisconsin without the excellent support, and assistance of the capable, and dedicated Grand Lodge Office Staff. Our office staff is beyond question the most committed and dedicated in assisting and giving you the right directions for the operations of your lodges. Cheryl Geiszler has kept me informed all year with the requests for special dispensations, awards certificates, and anything else that came across her desk. Alicia Darr and Jan Gorgen always keep me on my toes and made sure that I was getting my reports to them when needed. And then there is Scott Graske, our office administrator, what can I say; he is the glue that holds everything together in the Grand Lodge office. If I ever needed any help, for anything, he was able to find the answers very quickly, and I can t thank him enough. The entire team can never be thanked adequately enough for all their work and help over this past year. Past Grand Masters: Thank you to the Past Grand Masters for your knowledge and commitment to our great fraternity. It is great to know, if guidance is needed each and every one of the Past Grand Masters will lend a helping hand. Grand Lodge Trustees: The Grand Lodge Trustees have worked diligently and very successfully to improve our financial investments, maintain our properties and supervise the particular portions of our organization. The Chairman of the Trustees, Most Worshipful Past Grand Master Bill Day, gave our entire Grand Lodge Officers a complete report at each and every Full Staff meeting this year. The work they do is so vital and important to the overall success of our business and fraternal success, and I would like to extend my sincere thanks to them. Appleton Lodge #349: I would like to give a special thank you to the members of my home lodge, Appleton 18

19 Lodge #349. What can I say-you are the best! For the great job you did on the opening of the lodge for my installation, to the Testimonial/Table lodge, and to the opening of our Grand Lodge secession. I hope I have brought honor to you by serving in the capacity of this high office. Grand Master s Edict: There was one Edict this year, to Constituent Lodges on February 15, 2006, pertaining specifically to the Man to Mason to Shrine event held March 25th in Madison, and April29, 2006 in Green Bay and Milwaukee. Dispensations: During my term of office I issued 114 dispensations, which will be mentioned in the report from the Jurisprudence Committee later. District Restructuring and Schools of Instruction: 12 Districts were created this year from last years 10 Districts. This was done so the District Deputies could be of better service to the craft. In the past, some of the District Deputies had 30+ Lodges and it was felt that they could not adequately serve all of their lodges. The District Lecturers were given the latitude to regulate how and where they would hold their Schools of Instruction. Most of the Lecturers held their schools the traditional way, but some took their schools directly to the Lodges. The reports from the Lecturers who conducted their schools in this manner, felt this was a good way to get the young officers more involved. District Chaplains: The District Chaplains, with the assistance of the lodge Chaplains, were charged with setting up Clergy nights in their Districts. The main purpose of this was to inform the Clergy of what this great Fraternity is all about, and to erase all of the negative information seen on the Internet and other sources. This way, if someone from their parish, synagogue, congregation, or any other religious group asked about Freemasonry, they would be able to answer with the proper information. I attended two separate meeting where the members of the Clergy were involved and both of them seemed to be well received and very educational. This program will take some time to get going and be accepted, but the results I am sure will be rewarding to the Lodges. Development Office: To Erica Miller who was taking care of our Development office for the Wisconsin Masonic Charities, Thank You. She also set up the Grand Masters Florida and Arizona Tour, and prepared all of the information to be handed out to our snowbirds, including a terrific PowerPoint presentation about all our charities. She prepared everything for the Grand Masters Appeal, which was very successful. The proceeds from the appeal are designated for our Board of Service and Assistance. She also put together my wife s appeal, which was for the new aviary in our new Compass Point Catered Living Facility. At this time, I would like to introduce and welcome, William H. Barnes, our new Director of Development for our Wisconsin Masonic Charities. He comes to us from the charities program at the Marshfield Clinic, with good credentials and I would like to wish him great success. 19

20 Veteran s Hospital Visitations: As a former military man, it was a pleasure for me to be able to visit all four of our Veteran s Hospitals. I had the good fortune to visit not only some of the veterans, but also members of our fraternity in the hospitals. Many thanks to Most Worshipful Past Grand Master Beacher Daniels for his involvement in finding the spark plugs that created the Masonic Volunteer Program at each of the hospitals. I had the honor to address the Masonic volunteers from each of the hospitals at their volunteer recognition banquet. Some of the volunteers have dedicated thousands of hours, giving of their time in helping our veterans, and I commend all of them for giving of their precious time. Boards, Committees, and Foundations: The men and ladies who served on these special boards, committees carried out their important duties that directly impact Freemasonry. They were responsible for assignments that required a lot of personal commitment, and I would like to thank them for efforts. Grand Masters Achievement Award: I extended the Grand Masters Achievement Award last June to cover my term as Grand Master. I have always felt that this award should be presented to the lodges that qualify in the Grand Masters year, and not the calendar year. By having both last year and this years Masters working together to attain points, I feel creates a lodge team effort, rather than an individual award. It is also one of the best planning tools for lodges to use in setting up there calendar year. This year we had 78 lodges qualify and I believe it is the most we have had since we started the Award. Wisconsin Masonic Soccer Foundation: This year we were fortunate to have Nancy Storrs, the wife of our District Deputy, Pat Storrs, as our new Soccer Foundation Chairperson. She has some great ideas on how to get more visibility in our communities. The games for 2005 went off great, and 72 young athletes were able to find out about our great fraternity and its charities. I would like to thank Nancy and her dedicated staff for their continued efforts and dedication to the Soccer Foundation. Wisconsin Masonic Foundation: In 2005 they awarded 257 scholarships, totaling $220,700 with 148 Lodges participating. A special named fund, called the Wilson & Edna C. Woods Scholarship Fund is being distributed annually to graduating seniors at Beaver Dam High School. Through the Foundation, the Fraternity was presented with the opportunity to name the brand new ACE of Hearts Cardiac Wing by making a contribution of $650,000 from the Diagnostic and Treatment Center Fund. In October 2005, $105, was give to the Milwaukee School District for the purchase of 117 Automatic External Defibrillators for high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools in Milwaukee. There were 35 Medical Matching Grants to purchase 42 defibrillators for other schools and community buildings thought the state of Wisconsin. Three Pillars Wisconsin Masonic Retirement Community: What a year they had down at your Masonic Campus! In July 2005, they 20

21 celebrated the 100th birthday of the Masonic Home with a great picnic, fellowship fireworks and accordion music. In September I had the privilege to lay the Cornerstone on the NEW Compass Point Catered Living Facility. In late April, they started to take up residency and on May 13, they had the Grand Opening of the new Facility. For many years, it has been the Grand Masters privilege to meet and greet all, or most of the residents on the Campus with an afternoon Tea. I was fortunate to be able to do so on September 16, 2005 and one of the ladies who was a resident at Van Brunt, Susan Crysdale, gave me a beautiful oil painting that I will enjoy for a long time. The Chairperson of the Home Board, Theda Andres, and President and CEO Mark Strautman, are to be commended for their total dedication to the well being of our residents on our Campus, at Dousman, and our retirement community at Mason Woods, on Shawano Lake. Man-To-Mason-To-Shrine: This was a great success! Last fall I had a visit with William Wenszell, the Potentate of Beja Shrine Temple in Green Bay, and he asked if I would be interested in working with all of the Shrine Temples in Wisconsin in having a one day, Manto Mason-to-Shrine class. We agreed that this would be great for the Fraternity and the Shrine, and we then set April 29, 2006 as the day for the Man-to Mason-to-Shrine Program in each of the cities where the Shrine Temples are located. Later, Zor changed their date to March 25, The events were problem free. It was an honor for me to confer the Master Mason Degree on the candidates at Zor Shrine in Madison, and at Beja Shrine in Green Bay. All in all it was very successful, and in the end there were 130 Masons and 110 new Shriners brought into the fraternity. Many thanks to all who were instrumental in putting the teams together for the degrees and to the behind the scenes brothers and sisters who helped serve the meals at noon. I would like to give a special thank you to Worshipful Junior Grand Deacon, Joseph B. Harker, for coordinating the entire program. Masonic Unity: This year we had the privilege of sharing Masonic Unity with our sisters and brothers from the Grand Chapter Order of Eastern Star, and the DeMolay Boys Youth Group. We had the good fortune to share and work the chicken Bar-B-Q at Dousman in August of 2005, with the Grand Chapter Order of Eastern Star. We also shared a beautiful dinner and program with them, in conjunction with our Fall Full Staff Meeting. At our Spring Full Staff Meeting, we met in Wisconsin Rapids, so that we could attend the DeMolay Sweetheart Banquet with the State DeMolay Boys and some of the Job s Daughters. Sharing Masonic Unity with both groups proved to be very inspiring to each of the four groups; Grand Lodge, Eastern Star, Jobs Daughters, and the DeMolay and it appears we will try to continue them in the future. Relations with Wisconsin Prince Hall Masons: This was the 3rd year we have shared a table lodge with our Prince Hall Masonic 21

22 Brothers. About 200 brothers attended the table lodge from both Grand Lodges, and again it was a tremendous success. Many thanks to Brother Rodney A. Paulsen, RWDGM from our Grand Lodge, and to Brother Earl M. Thomas, RWSGW of Prince Hall Grand Lodge. Achievements and Ceremonies: Last fall, I had the opportunity to attend a symbolic mortgage burning ceremony at Fond du Lac Lodge. By being allowed to have Bingo in their dining room they were able to pay of their loan of $900,000 in 10 years. All of the members of Fond du Lac made this happen by total dedication and many, many man-hours. Under the direction of the late John Zeller, they were able to keep focused. It was my great honor to present to Brother John Zeller, the Masonic Service Award for his devotion to Freemasonry in Fond du Lac for many years. John you will be greatly missed by all! This spring, I had the opportunity to dedicate the new Masonic sign for the Day Light Lodge #358 in West Allis. If you get a chance, stop by, it is something to see. Cornerstone Ceremonies: This past year the Grand Lodge Officers conducted 5 Cornerstone Ceremonies throughout the state of Wisconsin. First we conducted a Cornerstone Ceremony at the Public Library in Washburn, in northern Wisconsin, and then we were at our Dousman Campus at the new Compass Point Catered Living Facility. We also conducted a Cornerstone Ceremony in Shawano at a business establishment, and then in Sturgeon Bay at the new Justice Center for Door County. In February 2006, we preformed a Dedication of a Cornerstone Ceremony at the Aurora Sinai Medical Center in Milwaukee at their new ACE of Hearts cardiac wing. Freemasonry was well represented throughout the state by conducting these ceremonies. State of the Craft: My Brothers, in my travels across this state, I see tremendous enthusiasm and dedication with in the lodges. Most of the Lodges are proud of the fact that they are all doing a tremendous amount of degree work. So far this year, there have been 103 Lodges in the state of Wisconsin who have raised Master Masons. There were 9 Lodges who raised 10 or more new Master Masons. Congratulations, with commitments like this from our lodges, how can we lose! My calculations indicate that we should have more than 300 new Master Masons this year. That, my brothers, shows me that we are on the increase. In conclusion, my brothers, it has been an honor and a privilege to serve you as the Most Worship Grand Master of Masons in Wisconsin for , and I would like to take this opportunity to thank All of you for that privilege. I recommend this report be received and printed in these proceedings. Fraternally, Roger L. Magoon Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Wisconsin The Grand Master was given a round of applause and his report was accepted. 22

23 ACTIVITIES & VISITATIONS June York Rite Session-Green Bay 20 Prince Hall Grand Lodge Session-Racine 25 Scottish Rite Wisconsin Council of Deliberation-Wisconsin Rapids July Soccer Games-Glendale August 6-7 Summer Staff-Pewaukee 9 Eagle River 50-year pin-eagle River 10 Crivitz Recognition Day-Crivitz 14 Daughters of the Nile Installation-Green Bay 23 Waverly Lodge-Appleton Scottish Rite Supreme Council-Grand Rapids, MI September 6 Roosevelt Lodge-Green Bay 13 Aurora Lodge-Whitefish Bay 16 Grand Masters Tea-Dousman 17 Cornerstone-Dousman 19 Twin Cites Lodge-Neenah 21 Ad Hoc-Dousman 29 Re-Obligation Night-Appleton October 6 Shawano Table Lodge-Shawano 7 Office-Dousman 8 Twin Cities 150th -Neenah 11 Crandon Table Lodge-Crandon 12 Appleton Lodge-Neenah 13 WMBAB-Dousman 14 VA Hospital-Madison 15 Fond du Lac Mortgage Burning-Fond du Lac 16 Annual Communication Meeting-Madison 17 Plymouth-Clergy-Plymouth 18 Sheboygan Lodge G.W Memorial-Sheboygan Fall Full Staff-Pewaukee 25 Mil-Harmony Mason of the Year-Milwaukee 27 Beja Shrine/Mason-Green Bay 29 Scottish Rite Reunion-Green Bay 30 Shawano Cornerstone-Shawano November 1 Waverly-50-year pin-appleton 5 Scottish Rite-Green Bay 10 VA Hospital-Tomah 12 Beja Fall Ceremonial-Green Bay 13 VA Hospital-King 19 Ozaukee Lodge Dedication-Port Washington 23

24 December 3 Henry S. Baird Installation-Sturgeon Bay 4 Christmas Observance-Lake Lodge Milwaukee 7 Eau Claire Lodges Installation-Eau Claire 9 WMBAB-Dousman 12 Winneconne Installation-Winneconne 15 Fond dud Lac Installation-Fond du Lac 16 Green Bay Installations-Green Bay 17 Landmark Installation-Fredrick 18 West Bend Installation-West Bend 27 Waverly Installation-Appleton January Manitowoc Installation-Manitowoc 7 Beja Shrine Installation-Green Bay 10 Prairie View Installation-Ripon 11 Appleton Installation-Neenah 12 Berlin Installation-Berlin 14 Shell Lake Friends/Clergy Program-Shell Lake 15 VA Hospital King-King 17 Grand Lodge Office Florida Trip February 5 Annual Communication-Madison 7 Waverly Lodge-Appleton 8 Shawano Shrine Club-Shawano 9 WMBAB-Dousman 10 Aurora Sinai Cornerstone-Milwaukee Full Staff-Wisconsin Rapids Grand Masters/Grand Secretaries Conference-Nashville, TN 24 Tripoli Circus-Milwaukee 25 Zor Friends Program-Camp Douglas 26 Don Solberg Testimonial-Madison March 1-3 Arizona Trip 4 Beja Shrine-Green Bay 7 Waverly Lodge-Appleton 8 Appleton Lodge-Neenah 10 Waterloo 150th-Lake Mills 11 Defense of the Ruffians-Wautoma 11 Henry S. Baird Lodge-Sturgeon Bay 14 Red Cross of Constantine-Green Bay 18 Marinette Commandery-Marinette 21 Waverly Lodge-Appleton 23 Cooksville Diner-Cooksville 25 Man-Mason-Shrine Class-Madison 26 Daughters of the Nile-Milwaukee 27 Eastern Star/Masonic Night-Appleton 29 Prince Hall Table Lodge-Milwaukee 31 Daughters of the Nile-Madison 24

25 April 1 Midwest Conference on Education-Milwaukee 1 Voice of the Crucifixion-Green Bay 1 Beja Ball-Neenah 3 Day Lite Lodge Sign Dedication-West Allis 5 Dist 6 School of Instruction-Appleton 6-7 Minnesota Annual Communication-St. Louis, MN 8 Dist 6 District Meeting-Oshkosh 8 Jobs Daughters Ball-Waukesha 13 Commandery Installation-Green Bay River Falls Table Lodge-River Falls 17 Phillips Lodge Dinner-Phillips New Jersey Annual Communication 26 MM Degree Appleton Lodge-Neenah 29 Man-Mason-Shrine Class-Green Bay 30 New York Annual Communication May 1-2 New York Annual Communication 4 Warren Lodge Cat Fish Dinner-Potosi 6-7 Testimonial Full Staff-Appleton 11 WMBAB-Dousman 12 New Glarus Lodge MM Degrees-New Glarus 13 Grand Opening Compass Point-Dousman 15 Twin Cites Lodge-Neenah 19 McKinley Table Lodge-Brookfield 20 Sojourners Dinner-Milwaukee 22 Gillett Lodge-Gillett 25 West Bend Table Lodge-West Bend GRAND LODGE OFFICER REPORTS Short reports were given by Rodney Paulsen, Deputy Grand Master, J.B. Van Hollen, Senior Grand Warden and John Wilke, Junior Grand Warden as to their travels and visitations during the past Masonic year. Rev. Ray Heilborn, Grand Chaplain; NECROLOGY REPORT To the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin; Grand Master, honorable guests, and brothers, it is at this time we pause in our proceedings to reflect for just a few moments in memory of those of our craft who left our earthly fellowship, since last we gathered, to assume their rightful places in the eternal Grand Lodge presided over by our Great Creator. We all know that there are no words sufficient to fully express our grief, nor are there those who will completely fill the void that has left us bereft of so many faithful and long-time compatriots. There are so many who seem to leave us too soon and often so suddenly that we are always unprepared to fully express the deep appreciation we have all felt for their dedicated service or to adequately make known our deep sorrow for the loss we feel. We are also sensitively aware of the family and friends our 25

26 departed brothers leave behind to also mourn their passing, and we express our deepest sympathy to them and wish to convey our gratitude to them for having shared their loved ones with us, and for their support of them as they utilized their time and their talents in service to the craft. Many of these, our brothers, have served their country in times of war and in peace and have been active in their community and religious affiliations as well. During their years of service in the craft of Freemasonry, they have encouraged others to step forth and begin to fill the places that might be left vacant, and thus we all are able to continue to move forward because of their examples. My Brothers, I am convinced that each of us here will bow in humble gratitude and grateful appreciation for all that these men and their families have given to us in their years of service. I am also convinced that we, who remain, inspired by their examples, will pick up the banner of service and move forward to continue the work they have so faithfully and efficiently begun. So let us pray: Eternal Architect of the Universe, accept this, our humble tribute of memorial, to those who have served so long and so well. We pray that you will welcome into the fellowship of the great Eternal Lodge, these our brothers, who labored well, who have earned their rest and a place in eternal glory. And amen. Grand Lodge of Wisconsin Members who have died Between 06/01/2005 and 05/31/2006 Richard H Abernathy (112) William W Akright (45) Joseph C Albrecht (130) Albert Hillmer Alexander (242) Donald A Anderson (164) Douglas A Anderson (236) Erick W Anderson (244) Lyman Frank Anderson (151) Ronald Gene Anderson (190) William Walfred Anderson Jr (248) Irving J Ansfield (261) Kurt C Arndt (307) Harold W Arpke (167) Michael Joseph Ascher (344) Charles W Ashing Jr (103) David Roy Askue (210) William Winfield Austin (60) Charles B Avery (231) Richard Wesley Axelsen (60) Harry Ayers (331) Edward G Bakulin (69) Herman Amerland Balow (45) Isadore S Banks (192) Lewis E Barlow (103) George W Bateman (13) Edward M. Batterman (3) Norman George Bauernfeind (18) Carlton C Becker (206) Owen M Beckman (31) Frank J Beeler (337) Darvin John Belk (350) Stephen Beres (3) Ervin Gottfred Bergman (329) Peter L Bergman, Jr (242) William Dietrich Bergmann (80) Kenneth Francis Betz (347) Charles E Bird (182) David T Blissett (82) Edmund Charles Bloedorn (45) Clarence O Bly (36) Robert W Boettcher Sr. (218) Wilson J Boggiano (255) Gus C Boll (120) John W Bollerud (319) Alton C Bonney Jr (175) Joseph Bosak (18) Warren Brooks Boyce (267) Lawrence J Boyler (37) Jule Harold Braatz (72) John W Bradley (192) Robert Sylvester Bradshaw (367) Earl E Brandau (307) Clyde Robert Breitwieser (356) Billie Rae Brown (350) Ellis S Brown (350) Stephen R. Brown (363) Clifford C Bryden (95) Delbert J Buchmiller (190) Walter Buck (354) Richard E Buettner (331) Hubert William Buhk (11) Delmar Lloyd Burlingame (95) Roy Charles Burritt (80) George C F Burton (267) Merton V Campbell (219) Vernon Wilfred Carlson (300) Robert L. Carlstein (3) Herbert Carow (187) John L Casey (265) Donald J Caswell (325) Peter Stuart Charley (45) Donald E Cheney (112) Robert Benjamin Chilson (42) Don Keith Christianson (322) William J. Cigan (351) Harold R Clark (148) George Cloute (9) Paul Virgil Cloyd (72) Alva A Clumpner (60) Russell E Colwell (325) Frederick William Combs (18) A Richard Conklin (280) Donald James Coons (65) James Henry Cottrell Jr (5) Richard E Cox (368) Richard Arthur Crane (182) Charles W Crowley (55) 26