GRAND COUNCIL ROYAL & SELECT MASTERS

Transcription

1 GRAND COUNCIL ROYAL & SELECT MASTERS of the STATE OF VERMONT CONSTITUTED AUGUST 10, 1834 Proceedings of the ONE HUNDRED SIXTY THIRD ANNUAL ASSEMBLY Held in Killington, Vermont Monday, June 13, 2016, A.D. 3016* KIRK C. WHITE, M.I. Grand Master BRUCE R. HOWARD, R.I. Grand Recorder Cryptic or Council Masonry (Royal and Select Masters) date from the year of deposit in the secret vault, Anno Depositionis (A.Dep.) Add 1000 to the common date, ( = 3016)

2 Grand Council Royal and Select Masters Of the State of Vermont Companion William Sandy Karstens, IV Most Illustrious Grand Master

3 Grand Council of Vermont Companion William Karstens, IV Most Illustrious Grand Master Companion William Sandy Karstens was born on February 5, 1960 in Norwalk, CT. He resided for several years in New York City before moving to Montreal, where his father played for the Montreal Symphony Orchestra and his mother danced for Les Grands Ballets Canadiens. Before finishing high school he moved back to the US in Franklin, VT where he subsequently graduated from Missisquoi Valley Union High School. He then attended the University of Vermont graduating in 1981 with a B.S. degree in physics. Following this he received his Masters degree in 1983 from Brandeis University and Ph.D. from the University of Vermont in He joined the faculty at Saint Michael's College in 1993, has served two terms as Chair of the Department of Chemistry and Physics and is a full professor in the Department of Physics. Sandy married Karla Nagle on July 18, 1987 in Rogers, MN. They have two children, daughter Bethany, who lives in Florida and son Will, who is a junior at Merrimack College. Sandy has been involved in Scouting since 2004 when his son first joined Cub Scouts. He has been a Den Leader and Assistant Scoutmaster as well as serving as the Advancement Coordinator for Troop 692 in Williston. He is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow, Ajapeu Lodge 351, and is presently the Chapter 3 adult advisor. He has been President and Secretary of the Vermont Chapter of Sigma Xi, the Scientific Research Society and has served as President and Secretary of the Gamma Chapter of Phi Beta Kappa at Saint Michael's College. On February 18, 2004, he was raised a Master Mason in Washington Lodge #3 in Williston and served as Master from He served as Grand Tyler, Grand Junior Steward and District Deputy Grand Master, District #5, for the Grand Lodge of Vermont. Sandy joined York Rite in Burlington Chapter (No. 3), Council (No. 5) and Commandery (No. 2) and was knighted on December 22, He served as Eminent Commander from , High Priest from and Thrice Illustrious Master from , and served as Grand Commander of Vermont from Sandy joined the Scottish Rite, Valley of Burlington and received his 32 nd degree in April of He has served as Sovereign Prince in the Council of Princes of Jerusalem and Commander-in-Chief for Vermont Consistory. He was coroneted with the 33 rd degree on August 28 th, 2010 in Philadelphia, PA, and presently serves as a Deputy s Representative. Sandy is Puissant Sovereign of Bethlehem Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine, Deputy Governor in the Green Mountain York Rite College #139 and Warder for the Knights of the York Cross of Honor, Priory #45. He is the recipient of the 2013 Cryptic Mason of the Year award. 2

4 OFFICERS OF THE GENERAL GRAND COUNCIL OF CRYPTIC MASONS INTERNATIONAL, Lawrence O. Weaver General Grand Master Prospector Terrace, Oregon City, OR Milton S. "Sid" Roberts Deputy General Grand Master 3736 Pleasant Hill Road, Kelso, WA Ronald E. Guthrie General Grand Prin. Cond. Of Work Charles L. Hollinger General Grand Treasurer 125 Angelo Road SE, Palm Bay, Florida David A. Grindle General Grand Recorder PO Box 332, Meridian, ID Rev. Charles M. Roberts General Grand Chaplain- East 158 Meadowbriar Road, Rochester, NY Rev. E. Jeffrey Craig General Grand Chaplain - West ggchapw@ggccmi.org PO Box 8306, St Joseph, MO Robert A.L. Whitfield General Grand Captain of the Guard cmdsea@aol.com Norman R. Draine General Grand Conductor of the Council dlhgrrec@aol.com Douglas O. Fegenoush General Grand Marshal bj_chastings@skyviewmail.com L. Alvin Hill, Sr. General Grand Steward ggstwe@ggcmi.org Douglas L. Soltow General Grand Sentinel fischer3@netzero.com 3

5 REGIONAL DEPUTY GENERAL GRAND MASTERS Douglas E. Connell N.E. Region Kenneth E. Dyer S.E. Region Charles L. Stuttle, II S.C. Region Richard M. Hoaglin S.W. Region Robert L. Stanford E.C. Region Johnnie L. Wallace N.W. Region George E. Bnauder N.C. Region Goran Kniewald Europe Region Joao Guilherme C. Riderio South American Region Victorino R. Floro, III Asia- Pacific Region 4

6 OFFICERS of the GRAND COUNCIL OF VERMONT for the Year M.I. GRAND MASTER William Karstens, IV (802) CELL Bingham Lane Williston, VT R.I. DEP. GRAND MASTER Michael J. Ladd (802) PO Box 146 Glover, VT R.I. PRIN. COND. OF WORK Eric C. Steele (802) Gazo Avenue Burlington, VT esteele@blumorph.com R.I. GRAND TREASURER Roger M. Pike (802) P.O. Box 864 rmpike@msn.com Rutland, VT I. ASST. GR. TREASURER E. Lawrence Douglass, Jr. (802) Deborah Drive douglassl@earthlink.net Rutland, VT R.I. GRAND RECORDER Bruce R. Howard (802) office 17 Tuttle Meadow Drive howard47@myfairpoint.net Rutland, VT Lady: Sharon I. ASST. GR. RECORDER Cedric L. Smith (802) P.O. Box 586 cedriclsmith1933@gmail.com S. Barre, VT I. GR. CAPT. OF THE GUARD David Schuler (802) Valley's Edge schuld@myfairpoint.net Jericho, VT I. GRAND CONDUCTOR John Haight dorothy.5127@yahoo.com OF THE COUNCIL 34 Truman Way Cohoes, NY

7 OFFICERS of the GRAND COUNCIL OF VERMONT for the Year I. GRAND CHAPLAIN Donald C. Murray (802) P.O. Box 24 Graniteville, VT Lady; Lynn I. GRAND MARSHALL Alan D. Watson 866 VT Route 7A, Box D alan@shaftsbury-realestate.com Shaftsbury, VT I. GRAND STEWARD Glen Dow PO Box 128 East Topsham, VT I. GRAND SENTINEL Winfred Pike Route 4 Castleton, VT gdow@tops-tele.com winfredpike5236@myfairpoint.net I. GRAND ORGANIST T.B.D. I. GRAND HISTORIAN Kirk C. White (802) Christian Hill Road kirkwhitevt@gmail.com Bethel, VT Lady Amy 6

8 Committee Assignments of the GRAND COUNCIL OF VERMONT for the Year CREDENTIALS FINANCE JURISPRUDENCE GRIEVANCES DISPENSATIONS & CHARTERS PLACE AND TIME DOINGS OF GRAND OFFICERS NECROLOGY FRATERNAL RELATIONS MEMBERSHIP David Schuler, Jon Hosford, Leo A. Laflamme Willis J. Morse, Russell J. Slora, Donald C. Murray Roger M. Pike, Palmer E. Martin, Russell J. Slora Kirk C. White, Douglas K. Boardman, Bruce R. Howard Eric Steele, Willia J. Morse, Donald C. Murray Eric C. Steele, Michael Ladd, David Schuler Belford A. Belles, Russell J. Slora, Kirk C. White Donald C. Murray, Cedric L. Smith, Bruce R. Howard William Karstens, IV, Bruce R. Howard Joshua Retchless, William Karstens, IV, Jonathan P. Park, Willis J. Morse SPECIAL COMMITTEES CRYPTIC MASONS MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION APRONS AND JEWELS YORK RITE COLLEGE LIAISON GREEN MOUNTAIN FREEMASON CORRESPONDENCE Eric Steele, David Schuler Donald C. Murray, Douglas K. Boardman William Karstens, IV, Jonathan P. Park, Bruce R. Howard, Roland Woodard Bruce R. Howard, Cedric L. Smith 7

9 GRAND COUNCIL OF VERMONT T. I. MASTERS AND RECORDERS OF SUBORDINATE COUNCILS for the Year COUNCIL T.I. MASTER RECORDER 3 BENNINGTON Tim Finney Alan Watson, Sr. 504 Main Street 779 Bennett Hill Rd 866 VT RT 7A Mail Box D Bennington Shaftsbury VT Shaftsbury VT alan@shaftsbury-realestate.com 5 BURLINGTON David Schuler David Schuler 87 Bishop Ave 3 Valley's Edge 3 Valley's Edge Williston Jericho, VT Jericho, VT (802) (802) schuld@myfairpoint.net schuld@myfairpoint.net 12 DAVENPORT Winfred Pike Bruce R. Howard 51 Washington Route 4 17 Tuttle Meadow Drive Rutland Castelton, VT Rutland, VT (802) winfredpike5236@myfairpoint.net 8 howard47@myfairpoint.net 14 MIDDLEBURY David Selleck James Ross/ Stuart Lee Schoolhouse Rd 86 Seminary Street Ext P O Box 652 Salisbury Middlebury, VT Middlebury, VT hauntedhouse86@hotmail.com 18 SPRINGFIELD Daniel Ebbighausen Leo A. LaFlamme 71 Main Street PO Box Coolidge Road Springfield Windsor, VT Springfield, VT (802) Danebbig@aol.com laflamme@vermonttel.net 19 ORLEANS Matthew Ladd Roland Woodard 41 Masonic Lane 3235 Glover Street PO Box 151 Newport Glover, VT Glover, VT rwoodard51@myfairpoint.net 22 BARRE Joshua Retchless Donald C. Murray 2 Academy St 38 Highland Ave. PO Box 24 Barre Randolph, VT Graniteville, VT (802) moldervt@gmail.com dmurray@barre.rockofages.com alba3498@myfairpoint.net PLEASE CHECK WITH THE TIM OR RECORDER BEFORE ATTENDING A MEETING

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11 Proceedings of the GRAND COUNCIL OF ROYAL AND SELECT MASTERS OF VERMONT Companion Kirk C. White, Most Illustrious Grand Master convened the One Hundred Sixty Third Annual Grand Assembly of the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters of Vermont at the Killington Mountain Lodge located in Killington, Vermont on Monday, June 13, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. The Council was duly opened by the officers in attendance and the Grand Chaplain, Companion Donald C. Murray, gave the opening prayer. ROLL CALL OF OFFICERS The Grand Recorder called the roll of Grand Officers. The following officers were properly accounted for: Kirk C. White M.I. Grand Master William Karstens, IV R.I. Deputy Grand Master Michael J. Ladd R.I. Principal Conductor of Work Roger M. Pike R.I. Grand Treasurer E. Lawrence Douglass, Jr. I. Assistant Grand Treasurer Bruce R. Howard R.I. Grand Recorder David Schuler I. Grand Captain of the Guard Eric C. Steele I. Grand Conductor of Council Donald C. Murray I. Grand Chaplain E. Lawrence Douglass, Jr. I. Grand Marshall Russell J. Slora I. Grand Sentinel Paul W. Fischer I. Grand Organist John Haight I. Grand Historian The following officers were absent: Eugene C. Corliss, I. Grand Steward. Companion White appointed Companion Everett Dickinson as I. Grand Steward pro tem. RECEPTION OF PAST GRAND MASTERS The following Most Ill. Past Grand Masters of Vermont were presented West of the Altar by Companion William Karstens, IV, R.I. Deputy Grand Master James E. Selleck 1978 Palmer E. Martin 1991 Willis J. Bill Morse 1995 Belford A. Belles 2001 Willis J. Morse 1995 Belford A. Belles 2001 Dan Ebbighausen 2003 Alexis J. Parent, Jr Donald C. Murray 2007 Russell J. Slora 2008 Douglas K. Boardman 2009 Bruce R. Howard 2011 Jonathan P. Park 2012 Robert Bryant

12 After a warm welcome the M.I.P.G.M. s each was greeted in the East by M.I.G.M. White and after which Grand Honors were given. APPROVAL OF THE 2015 PROCEEDINGS There being no objection, M.I.G.M. White declared that the minutes of the 2015 Annual Assembly approved as printed and distributed in the proceedings. PRELIMINARY REPORT OF CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE Companion Leo LaFlamme gave the preliminary report of the Credentials Committee. Companion White reminded everyone to check in if they have not. Since no member present indicated they had registered, the report was moved to be the final report of the Credential Committee and M.I.G.M. White ordered it printed in the proceedings. RECEPTION OF DISTINGUISHED GUESTS The following Distinguished Guests were received west of the Altar and greeted by M.I.P.G.M. White: CONNECTICUT by Russell J. Slora, M.I.P.G.M. Comp. J. Andrew Birdsell, Most Puissant Grand Master Comp. Clyde W. Kayser, II, R.I. Deputy Puissant Grand Master Comp. Martin Ede, I. Grand Steward. NEW YORK by Russell J. Slora, M.I.P.G.M. Comp. Curtis Alan Banks, R.I. Principal Conductor of the Work Comp. Stephen A. Rubinstein, R.I. Grand Steward NEW HAMPSHIRE by Willis Bill Morse, M.I.P.G.M. Comp. David Walters, Most Illustrous Grand Master Comp. H. Stephen Wood, Most Illustrious Past Grand Master Comp. Scott Ayen, Right Illustrious Deputy Grand Master Comp. Andy Lord, I. Grand Prin. Conductor of the Work PENNSYLVANIA by Belford A. Belles, M.I.P.G.M. Comp. Kerry J. Cashman, Most Puissant Grand Master Comp. Charles M. Bombich, Right.Puissant Deputy Grand Master MAINE by Daniel Ebbighausen, M.I.P.G.M. Comp. Daniel T. Crowley, Most Illustrious Grand Master 11

13 RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATION by Willis Bill Morse, M.I.P.G.M. Comp. Mark D. Thompson, Most Illustrious Grand Master Comp. Brad C. Buckley, I. Grand Marshall NEW JERSEY by Russell J. Slora, M.I.P.G.M. Comp. John Barnes, Most Illustrious Past Grand Master and I. Grand Treasurer RECEPTION OF HEADS OF BODIES FOR VERMONT VERMONT by Bruce R. Howard, M.I.P.G.M. Companion Howard introduced the leaders of the Appendant Bodies of Vermont Companion Jonathan P. Park. Most Excellent Grand High Priest Companion Jonathan P. Park, Right Eminent Grand Commander Knight Companion Belford A. Belles, Intendant General for Vermont, Red Cross of Constantine Comp. Robert H. Landon, Eminent Prior, VT Priory #45 KYCH Comp. Donald C. Murray, Grand Governor for Vermont, York Rite College of North America Comp. Jonathan P. Park, Preeminent Governor, Green Mountain York Rite College #139 GENERAL GRAND COUNCIL CRYPTIC MASONS INTERNATIONAL by Jonathan P. Park, M.I.P.G.M Comp. Charles McCullum, R.P. Deputy General Grand Master for the Northeast Department and personal representative of M.P.G.M. Lawrence O. Weaver Comp. Jonathan P. Park, Ambassador to Vermont of General Grand Council Our General Grand Council Representative were asked to stand fast, whereupon he was met by the M.I.G.M. and escorted to the East. All our distinguished visitors were then accorded Grand Honors. FLAG CEREMONY The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, followed by the singing of one verse of the National Anthem and O Canada. RECOGNITION OF GRAND REPRESENTATIVES Most Illustrious Grand Master White asked all Grand Representatives to our sister jurisdictions to stand and be recognized. M.I.P.G.M White thanked the Grand Representatives for their continued service to the Grand Council and congratulated them for their many years of service. 12

14 CALL FOR ANY MOTIONS, RESOLUTIONS OR PROPOSALS TO AMEND THE REGULATIONS (see pages 38-40) A call for any motions, resolutions or proposals to amend the regulations was made. Three (3) proposals to amend the Statues and Regulations were received in proper form and are on the Recorders desk. The same has been forwarded to every Constituent Council as well as the Jurisprudence Committee for review. Motions are printed in the book of reports. June 13, 2016 ADDRESS BY THE M.I.G.M. To the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters of Vermont now assembled: It was with great humility that one year ago I assumed the office of Most Illustrious Grand High Priest. I was fully aware that the Order has recently seen a mix of leadership ranging from extraordinary talent to benign neglect. Due to this mix, some of our constituent councils are doing okay. Others hadn t been visited by a York Rite Grand Officer is several years and are showing the low morale resulting from that neglect. In all cases, the Order needs new blood. The ranks of leadership candidates at all levels of the Order are thin with a significant amount of recycling and consequent burn-out. For that reason, I set myself three major goals: - Identify those councils that need additional support and offer to provide guidance, mentoring, and whatever other resources available - In conjunction with the other York Rite leaders to begin a process of reorganization of the Grand Line to: o take pressure off of the Order to fill chairs o Increase leadership training and participation of upcoming Grand Line officers - Increase potential membership For the first goal, I visited every council that meets even if only sporadically. As mentioned later in the Visitations section, I identified some struggling councils and have offered to mentor and support them even beyond my tenure as Grand Master. They want to succeed and even have some newer members but without guidance in an environment of discouragement and burn-out it will be a challenge. They need the direct help of the Grand Council. Reorganization took two forms. In consultation with my York Rite cohort, we decided that the Chapter and Council would not appoint District Deputies or Grand Lecturers this year and instead would take those duties on ourselves. Given the size of the Order, this was not a major hardship and it gives time for the Grand Line candidate pool to refill. There are some very good future candidates working their way through their local councils but they need time before we rush them into the Grand Line. The second step in reorganization was one I first proposed when I was Grand High Priest several years ago. During my tenure, I discovered that the Grand Line had virtually no duties or expectations until they assumed the Grand East when suddenly everything was their responsibility. This was both overwhelming for the Body Head and also meant that upcoming officers got little to no training before assuming the East. This year, again in conjunction with the other York Rite leaders, we instituted the expectations that the fundraising will be done by 13

15 the Deputy Grand Master, and the Time and Place and hospitality room would be the responsibility of the Principle Conductor of Work. This allows the preceding officer to coach and guide their replacement and allow for some continuity of training and practice. Right Illustrious Companions Sandy Karstens and Michael Ladd have an done exemplary job in setting this transition up and deserve the appreciation of all Vermont Cryptic Masons. Finally, I leveraged my position in other Masonic bodies to try bringing further Light about Masonry in general and York Rite in particular. To the general non-masonic public I gave two lectures extolling the benefits of Masonry and made sure to mention York Rite. As a presenter at several Masonic conferences and at Vermont lodges, I made sure to mention and promote York Rite as part of my talks. As Grand Senior Deacon, I attended District Meetings across the state and tried to not only represent the Grand Lodge of Vermont but also Grand York Rite in general. To that end, I also participated in performance of the Fervency & Zeal play at the 10 th Masonic District s annual meeting in Newport, VT. This was a great way to expose York Rite to the Grand Lodge and to a number of constituent lodges. I recommend that we work towards presenting at additional District Meetings in the future. Overall, I believe that while Council is still struggling, York Rite as a whole is beginning to show evidence of new growth. We are still posting overall losses but that is because attrition is still outpacing new membership. However, with proper mentoring, those new members are beginning to revivify our chapters, councils and Commanderies. With a little patience, a great deal of preparation, and significant nurturance when the time comes, there is reason for optimism for the future of Cryptic Masonry in Vermont. Necrology During the past year the Council has lost 13 of its honored companions. So many fine men have labored tirelessly in keeping Cryptic Masonry alive and they will be missed. But we can comfort ourselves in knowing that their labors have now ceased and they rest in the joy of the Grand Architect of the Universe. Our thoughts and prayers go out their families and friends. May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and grant you peace forevermore. York Rite Planning Meeting The York Rite Planning meeting was held on Saturday, June 20, 2016 in Barre. In coordination with the heads of the other York Rite bodies, a short educational piece was provided along with scheduling of the Chapter and Council District Meetings in Barre, and Commandery Inspections. Northeast York Rite Conference The Northeast York Rite Conference was held from September 10 12, 2015 in Mt. Laurel, NJ. Due to work conflicts I was unable to attend. 14

16 District Meeting The Royal and Select Masters District meeting was held at Barre Council # 22 on Saturday, October 3, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. The Companions of Barre Council opened the council in excellent form and saw to the reception of the Most Illustrious Grand Master. Then gavel was then turned over to the M.I. Grand Master who opened and conducted the business of the District Meeting. A short talk was given by the M.I. Grand Master on Adoniram, Ahishar and Zabud. With so few councils in Vermont, it makes sense to continue hold a single district meeting and since many of officers are the same, to do so on the same day as Chapter s district meeting. There was no Multi-State Festival this year. This Council year I granted no dispensations. Multi-State Festival Dispensations Cryptic Mason Medical Research Foundation One of the changes mentioned earlier to get Grand Line officers more involved was to move responsibility of running the CMMRF fundraising to the Deputy Grand Master. He has been working this year in concert with his counterparts in Grand Chapter and Grand Commandery. I will make a donation to the CMMRF in lieu of gifts for my officers. Visitations During this Council year, I have attend Grand Council Assemblies in six of our sister jurisdictions. Due to work commitments and the timing of these Assemblies I was unable to attend more. My goal is to attend these jurisdictions in subsequent years as a Past Grand Master. In Vermont, I visited every individual constituent council except one and that one meets in conjunction with another council so that I met with officers of every council. Some of these councils hadn t had an official visitation by a Grand York Rite Officer in several years. We cannot expect our councils to thrive in isolation. It behooves the Grand Officers to go the extra distance to connect and support our more marginal councils. If we can t do that one crucial thing, then what are we doing? I gave counsel and offered to mentor their new TIM/ EHP in the coming year. Grand Representatives I would like to thank all of the Grand Representatives of this jurisdiction for their work in maintaining and ensuring proper lines of communication with our sister jurisdictions. Their work is often invisible and consequently underappreciated. Thank you, companions. Awards It is a great honor for me to announce that I recommended for consideration the names of two deserving candidates for the Cryptic Mason of the Year Award and the Cryptic Mason Youth 15

17 Award. It is my pleasure to award the Cryptic Mason of the Year Award to Companion Joshua Retchless for his seemingly tireless support of York Rite Masonry in Vermont. I am also pleased to award the Cryptic Mason Youth Award to Penny Reem or her remarkable service to our youth. Condition of the Order Cryptic Masonry in Vermont is definitely struggling. Most of our councils meet jointly with the other York Rite bodies. I only saw one that could open and close completely without scripts. As I visited each of our constituent councils, I mentioned how Council is the red haired stepchild of York Rite Masonry. Chapter is the entry to York Rite and thus as new members join it necessitates our companions to focus on learning that ritual. On the other end, Commandery ritual is inspected so it also requires time and focus. When the same small group of men is doing all three Bodies, council gets short shrift. But I see that changing. The demographics of the None generation make these men ideal candidates for Masonry and they are starting to come. Blue lodges are finally starting to get new men and some are seeking further Light through York Rite. The wave is coming. Some of our chapters are growing for the first time in decades and now are working hard to keep up. Those new Chapter companions are bound to pass into Council eventually. The solution will be for Council to better demonstrate its own unique gifts and strengths rather simply be a waystation to Commandery. As a Past Grand Master, I intend to help make that happen. Recommendations 1. Continue to not appoint a Grand Lecturer or District Deputy until such time as we have a sufficient pool to reinstate it. With so few councils, these jobs are easily covered by the Most Illustrious Grand Master. 2. Continue to hold a single district meeting in conjunction with the Grand Chapter. Given the current redundancy of office holders, this provides the most efficient way to meet. This meeting should have an educational piece included. 3. Seek out opportunities to perform Fervency & Zeal at more Grand Lodge District Meetings and other functions. 4. In conjunction with the York Rite College and the other Grand York bodies, create one or more short but lively presentations on York Rite Masonry that can be used by constituent bodies in their Blue Lodges or at Grand Lodge District Meetings to educate the brothers about York Rite. This could be used in those situations where the Fervency and Zeal play would not work. 5. Hold a one-day training on Cryptic Masonry including coaching on opening and closing, its history, and a discussion on the moral, ethical and mythic themes of its degrees. I would volunteer to help coordinate this. 6. Offer the Super Excellent degree. In Conclusion It has been an honor to serve the Grand Council of Vermont. I am always humbled by the hard work and dedication my companions show for their constituent councils. The dedicated TIM s, Recorders and attending companions are the ones who keep the lights on day-after-day and year- 16

18 after-year. I want to thank you for the trust you granted me and hope that I have made at least one contribution to making your jobs easier. Please know that although my term is almost done, I will still be ready to assist you in any way possible. I would also like to thank my Grand Line Officers for really stepping up to the plate this year and embracing some of these difficult changes. You give me confidence that the Grand Council of Vermont will be in good and capable hands. To the Most Illustrious Past Grand Masters, many of you have served as role models for me. I am grateful for the support, guidance, and assistance you have shared with me. Most Illustrious Companion Bruce Howard in particular has been an incomparable asset. Without Bruce, York Rite Masonry in Vermont would be greatly impoverished. Thank you all, companions, for your past, present and future service. I hope that my meager efforts have been a worthy successor to your work. I would also like to thank my family for their patience, endurance and support as I have spent so many evenings away. They are the bedrock that supports me and allows all of my service to take place. Any successes I have had are due in large part to their support. Companions, it has been an honor to serve you. Kirk C. White Most Illustrious Grand Master TREASURERS REPORT (see pages 24-25) The report as printed in the Book of Reports was accepted and referred to the Finance Committee. RECORDERS REPORT (see pages 26-28) The report as printed in the Book of Reports was accepted and referred to the Finance Committee. PRELIMINARY REPORT ON THE COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS (see page 23) The preliminary report on the Committee of Credentials was requested by M.I.G.M. White. The report was presented by Companion Leo LaFlamme, a member of the committee. Companion Laflamme made the motion that this be the final report of the credentials committee, unless anyone objected or thought they had not registered. The motion was seconded and voted in the affirmative. REPORT ON THE COMMITTEE OF DOINGS OF GRAND OFFICERS (see page 37) Report contained in the Book of Reports was accepted and ordered printed in the proceedings 17

19 PRESENTATION OF AWARDS Companion White announced his pick for the Cryptic Mason of the year was Companion Joshua Retchless from Barre Council #22. Companion Retchless was presented the award by Companions White and McCullum. Companion McCullum gave the following remarks: The Most Illustrious Grand Master gets to select one (1) Cryptic Mason in his state to award the Cryptic Mason of the Year Award to, and he has selected you this year. Of course, you can t have an award without a lapel pin. (Comp. McCullum placed pin on lapel). Companion White remarked: Josh in the York Rite and Masonry in general has been a real asset. He s always there if you have twenty (2) pages you need memorized right away. He s a very dedicated worker in the quarries, and it s an honor to be able to give you that award. Companion White announced the following reports which were contained in the Book of Reports accepted and ordered them printed in the proceedings: REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON NECROLOGY (see pages 29-30) REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON GRIEVANCES (see page 30) REPORT ON THE COMMITTEE OF DISPENSATIONS AND CHARTERS (see page 31) REPORT ON THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE OF CRYPTIC MASONS MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION (see page 31) REPORT OF THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON THE NORTHEAST MULTI STATE CRYPTIC FESTIVAL (see page 32) COMMITTEE ON MEMBERSHIP (see page 32) COMMITTEE ON PUBLICATIONS (see page 32) REPORT ON THE COMMITTEE FOR TIME AND PLACE Oral report made from the floor. The Grand Commandery of Vermont voted to hold its Annual Conclave in the Town of Killington on the 12 th of June. 2017, Therefore it was recommended that the Grand Council follow the Grand Commandery and meet on the 12 th of June 2017 in Killington beginning at 1:00 in the afternoon. A combined Chapter, Council and Commandery banquet will be held the evening preceding the Assembly. The motion was seconded and approved on a voice vote. Report #1 REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEE ON JURISPRUDENCE (see pages 33-34) Motion to accept the report, and approve records of Jurisprudence Committee was made, Seconded and voted in the affirmative. Report #2 Motion to accept the report, and approve records of Jurisprudence Committee was made, Seconded and voted in the affirmative. 18

20 Report #3 Motion to accept the report, and approve records of Jurisprudence Committee was made, Seconded and voted in the affirmative. Report #4 Motion to accept the report, and approve records of Jurisprudence Committee was made, Seconded and voted in the affirmative. Report #1 REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE (see page number 35-36) Motion to accept the report, and approve records of Grand Treasurer and Grand Recorder Seconded and voted in the affirmative. Report #2 Motion to accept the report and adopt the proposed budget. An amendment was proposed from the floor to add $ to the proposed budget to cover the cost of awards. The amendment was seconded and the amendment passed Seconded and voted in the Affirmative. Report #3 Motion to accept the report and adopt the recommendations therein contained was seconded and voted in the affirmative. Report #4 Motion to accept the report and adopt the recommendation therein contained was seconded and voted in the affirmative. VISITORS Most Illustrious Grand Master White called upon Companion J. Andrew Birdsell, Most Puissant Grand Master from the State of Connecticut to speak on behalf of our visitors. Companion Birdsell gave the following address: Most Illustrious Grand Master, as the youngest Most Illustrious or Most Puissant visiting Grand Master, only nine (9) days, I have been elected to speak on behalf of the visiting Brethren or visiting Companions. Congratulations on a good year. Thank you for all the hospitality and courtesies and we wish the Grand Council all the success and health in the coming year. A motion was made, seconded and voted in the affirmative to make all the visiting Most Illustrious Grand Masters and Most Puissant Grand Masters Honorary Members of the Grand Council of Vermont. Companion White handed out honorary membership certificates to all visiting Most Illustrious Grand Masters and Most Puissant Grand Masters with appropriate remarks to each recipient. 19

21 ELECTION OF OFFICERS Companion White stated that it was time for election of officers to serve the Grand Council for the coming year. It was moved that Companion William Karstens, IV be elected to the office of Most Illustrious. Grand Master. The nomination was seconded and voted in the affirmative. The following slate of officers was nominated, seconded and the Secretary was instructed to cast one ballot: R.I. Deputy G. Master R.I. Prin. Cond of Work R.I. Grand Treasurer R.I. Grand Recorder I.G. Capt. Of Guard I.G. Cond. Of Council Michael J. Ladd David Schuler Roger M. Pike Bruce R. Howard Eric Steele Roland Woodard ANNOUNCEMENT OF APPOINTED OFFICERS (see page 5-6) M.I.G.M. Elect Karstens announced his appointed officers. See list in front of proceedings for all appointed and elected officers. REPRESENTATIVE FOR THE GRAND MASTER GENERAL GRAND COUNCIL CRYPTIC MASONS INTERNATIONAL Companion Charles McCullum, Assistant Northeast Department Deputy Grand Master, General Grand Council Cryptic Masons International gave the following address: Good afternoon Companions. I thought it was strange that when I was coming here, Companion Larry Weaver said make sure you hit Palmer up for that fee he never paid. Now I understand what he was talking about. I would like to bring you the greetings of our Most Puissant General Grand Council Grand Master Lawrence O. Weaver as well as my own and thank you for the hospitality that you have afforded me. My apologies that my Lady Beth could not make it, she got stuck on grandparent duty. It s been a pleasure to present the awards here. Last night to present the award to Penny for the Adult Leadership Award and today to Companion Josh for the Cryptic Mason of the Year Award. Are there any other holders of the Cryptic Mason of the year award? May they please stand. You see the kind of company you are in. Thank you Companions. There are additional awards that the General Grand Council offers. The Columbian Award, the Lady of the Council Award and the new Ritual Award which is still under development, but information on all of the awards can be found on the General Grand Council website. The Northeast York Rite Conference, of which the General Grand Council is the host this year, will be held on September 9 th and 10 th at the Holiday Inn in Mansfield, Massachusetts. I mentioned it in Commandery, that s a Friday and a Saturday, Friday is Chapter in the morning, Council in the afternoon and Saturday is Grand Encampment and the York Rite Emerging Leaders Program. I have several of these flyers which I am going to leave with Companion Bruce to give to the presiding officers. It describes a little bit about the program. It s got some testimonials from people who have taken the program, and then there is a recommendation form 20

22 for someone to be sent to the form, and it must be signed by a presiding grand officer. So I am going to leave a bag of these with you and hope that you will make use of those. It was interesting that you had talked about the Council being the red headed step child and that was one of the things that bothered me as I was coming through the Grand Council line. Companions we need to realize without the Council there is no Royal Arch. Cause there would be nothing to discover if we did not preserve it. So remember that. Take pride in the fact that we are the preservers of the word. And that membership in the Grand Council allows a Master Mason to discover the word which was hidden. Again I thank you for the hospitalities, and I know that you have another body which still has to meet and you have an installation to make, so Companion Kirk, Thank you. Companion Sandy, best of luck. Thank you Companions INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS The elected and appointed officers were installed in their respective stations in proper form agreeable to the ceremony. The installing team was: Companion Jonathan P. Park Companion Belford A. Belles Companion Donald C. Murray Installing Grand Master Installing Grand Marshall Installing Grand Chaplain PRESENTATION OF PAST GRAND MASTER JEWEL & APRON Companion White was presented with his Most Illustrious Past Grand Master Apron and case. After presentation on the apron Companion Palmer Martin presented Companion White with the Most Illustrious Past Grand Master Jewel containing the names Waldron C. Biggs, Palmer E. Martin and now Kirk C. White. ADDRESS BY OUR NEW MOST ILLUSTRIOUS GRAND MASTER After being installed by the above referenced officers, Companion William Sandy Kirsten s, IV delivered the following address: Well, I m supposed to give an address, I know everybody just wants to be done, so this will be quick and brief and then we will close for the next session. Our now Past Most Illustrious Grand Master, Kirk White has done a superb job in helping to right our Grand Council and constitution constituent bodies and setting the stage for continued development and improvement. He has kindly offered to continue his support and I plan to vigorously take him up on this offer. In addition we have a great team in the line and I am excited to start the work we have ahead of us. This work includes programs addressing membership, leadership and education and enrichment. Our members come from Blue Lodges not out of the blue; therefore it is essential that we make our presence known in the Blue Lodges. Companion Kirk has suggested putting together short and lively presentations for Blue Lodges and district meetings. I wholeheartedly agree. Our regular Brothers need to see us as that group of men who are the most active among them who are busy as leaders and who bring a wealth of additional knowledge and expertise to the fraternity. In order to do this we need truth in advertising. New candidates need to experience meetings that are efficient, interesting and worth their time. And they need to experience decent 21

23 degree work. To that end, it is essential that we assist the constituent bodies in building their leadership and giving them the tools and confidence to run their meetings, do degree work and provide quality enrichment for their members. These are the issues that we plan to address during my term and I will report to you in a years time how well we did. NEW BUSINESS Companion Karstens called for any new business to come before the Council. CLOSING M.I.G.M Karstens called the Council up with three raps of the gavel, asked the Grand Chaplain to offer a prayer and upon the completion of the prayer, the annual assembly was declared closed. Respectfully submitted: Bruce R. Howard, Illustrious Grand Recorder 22

24 REPORTS Credentials 23

25 Grand Council of Vermont, R & SM Report of the Grand Treasurer May 1, 2015 to April 30, 2016 Balance on Hand, April 30, 2015 Checking Account $16, Triennial Fund Certificates of Deposit: Factory Point National Bank 11, Bank of Bennington 3, Receipts: Per Capita FY 15 1, Per Capita FY 16 7, Checking Account Interest - Less Service Charges 8.97 CD Interest $32, , TOTAL RECEIPTS AND CASH 41, DISBURSEMENTS: Budget Actual Variance 1. Grand Recorders Expense Grand Treasurers Expense Grand Lecturer s Expense Grand Master s Travel 1, , Gr. Rec. Office Expense (102.99) 6. Proceedings PGM Jewel Recovery Past Grand Master s Jewel (167.01) 9. Past Grand Master s Apron ) 10. General Grand Council Dues (1.00)) 11. Festivals Guests 1, , Office Rent Audit Insurance Triennial Miscellaneous DeMolay Rainbow York Rite Planning Conf Office Automation TOTALS 8, , Net Change in Triennial Fund (-0-) Cash on Hand, April 30, , TRIENNIAL FUND 24

26 Balance on Hand, April 30, Received from General Fund -0- Disbursed to Attendees (-0-) Balance on Hand, April 30, STATEMENT OF ASSETS, APRIL 30, 2016 Cash on Hand: General Fund $18, Triennial Fund $19, Investments: Factory Point Certificate $11, Bank of Bennington Certificate 3, , TOTAL ASSETS APRIL 30, 2016 $34, TOTAL ASSETS APRIL 30, , GAIN (LOSS) OF ASSETS $1, ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE (as of April 30, 2016) Per Capita Bennington #3 approx TOTAL RECEIVABLES $ Respectfully submitted Roger M. Pike, Grand Treasurer 25

27 GRAND RECORDERS REPORTS June 13, 2016 To the Grand Council of Vermont now in Session: It has been indeed an honor and privilege to again serve the Companions of the Grand Council of Vermont as your Grand Recorder these past 12 months. This office did not issue any dispensations on behalf of our Most Illustrious Grand Master this year, and the Jurisprudence Committee has been apprised of this fact. Attached you will find a grid of membership gains and losses for the Cryptic year. Our aging membership, mergers and moves continue to pressure our order. We have experienced growth in some Councils and continued deterioration in others. Returns have not been filed in compliance with the Statutes and Regulations. Filing of reports as specified by our Constitution should be adhered to. I continue to work full time as well as fill the duties of Recorder. Fortunately, much of the work of this office may be completed remotely, and those who have electronic mail capabilities find that communication is frequent and extremely timely. Returns are able to be filed electronically, provided the constituent recorder is fluent in Microsoft Office Excel and many have filed this way. I am also available to assist, but not fulfill the duties of your Council Recorder. 26

28 Grand Council of Vermont, R. &S.M. Office of the Grand Recorder June 13, 2016 To the Grand Council Royal and Select Masters of Vermont now in session: Your Grand Recorder submits the following report on the condition of the Grand Council of Vermont as of March 31, 2015: Membership: Number of Councils.. 7 Number of Councils reporting 7 Number of Councils showing work. 3 Membership as of March 31, Gains: Greeted 5 Affiliated 0 Errors Corrected.. 0 Reinstated.. 0 Total Gains. 5 Losses: Demits 15 Suspensions 15 Deaths 13 Errors Corrected. 0 Total Losses 43 Membership March 31, Net loss- without corrections 38 Respectfully submitted, Bruce R. Howard Bruce R. Howard, Illustrious Grand Recorder Most Illustrious Past Grand Master 27

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30 NECROLOGY REPORT June 13, 2016 To the Grand Council of Vermont now is session: It is with great sadness as we look over the returns from subordinate Councils and that death has removed 13 of our beloved Companions. Their labors here are done as they have moved to the joy of the life beyond. Our remembrance of the departed this afternoon should not be of bitter grief, but of faith, not of despair, but of hope. This remembrance signifies only our parting with the flesh from which the immortal spirit has achieved emancipation Farewell to thee! But not farewell to all my fondest thoughts of thee: Within my heart they still shall dwell; and they shall cheer and comfort me. O, beautiful, and full of grace! If thou hadst never met mine eye, I had not dreamed a living face Could fancied charms so far outvie. If I may ne'er behold again That form and face so dear to me, Nor hear thy voice, still would I fain Preserve, for aye, their memory. Anne Brontë Fraternally submitted, Cedric L. Smith, Donald C. Murray, Bruce R. Howard 29

31 Grand Council R. & S.M. of Vermont List of deceased Companions Bennington #3 Companion Peter Boll Burlington #5 Companion Ernest Elliott Companion Hector Messier Davenport #12 Companion Robert M. Aronson Companion Richard T. Timmerman Middlebury #14 Companion Winston B. Rose Springfield #18 Companion Wendell T. Barrows Orleans #19 Companion Everett Nick Burdick Companion Ormand Garland Barre #22 Companion Hugh Ross Kinney Companion Richard S. Ward Companion Norman Whitcomb Companion John Babcock THE COMMITTEE ON GRIEVANCES June 13, 2016 To the Grand Council of Vermont now is session: Your Committee on Grievances is pleased to report that no matters were referred to this committee again this year. Fraternally submitted, Bruce R. Howard 30

32 Report of the Committee for the Cryptic Masons Medical Research Foundation To the Grand Council of Vermont now in session: I am sorry to report that again this year that the only contribution was $ from Barre Council #22. We will need to try harder to improve our giving Companions! The CMMRF continues to perform valuable work in areas which will touch us all at some point. Heart disease, diabetes, blindness and COPD are just a few of the areas of their research. Significant advances have also occurred in the areas of regenerative medicine and wound healing due to their research with stem cells. Please give generously to this fine charity! Respectfully, Donald C. Murray Jonathan P. Park Robert S. Bryant For the Committee June 13, 2016 REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON DISPENSATIONS AND CHARTERS To the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters now in session: There have been no formal requests for Dispensations or Charter changes brought to the attention of this committee. There being no reports, no action was deemed necessary or otherwise taken. This completes the report of this committee. Respectfully submitted, Belford A. Belles PGM, Bruce R. Howard PGM 31

33 REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MULTI STATE FESTIVAL June 13, 2016 To the Grand Council of Vermont now in session: A Multi-State Festival was not held this year, therefore this committee has nothing to report to the assembled Companions. Respectfully submitted Bruce R. Howard, Belford A. Belles, Douglas K. Boardman REPORT OF THE MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE To: The Grand Chapter, Grand Council, and Grand Commandery of Vermont now in session. From: Membership Committee Charge: Active recruitment, candidate mentoring, development of membership material. Goals: To provide the tools and the assistance to improve membership in each subordinate body and to help maintain vibrant Chapters, Councils and Commanderies. Although we haven t had any specific requests, the Membership Committee stands ready to provide assistance in matters of membership. In particular, we would like to remind our members that we have material available to use in promoting York Rite, including several presentation plays that can be used in Blue Lodge. On this note, we vigorously encourage more Blue Lodge talks & presentations to inform Master Masons about York Rite as they are our future members. In fact, we happily point out that the Fervency & Zeal presentation was done for the educational portion of one of the Grand Lodge District meetings this past year. The Committee is also pleased to have seen several progressive line Grand Lodge officers complete their York Rite journey this year. We feel this is an important step in bringing Masonry in Vermont together. We also have proficiency booklets for the Chapter degrees that can be used as part of your mentoring. In addition, we can provide a set of prologues to be presented at the beginning of each of the Chapter degrees. These are available directly from us, but were obtained from the New York Grand Chapter website which has a host of other educational material that we highly recommend. Fraternally Submitted, William Karstens IV, Chair Jonathan P. Park Willis J. Morse REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLICATIONS June 13, 2016 To the Grand Council of Vermont now in session: Your Committee on Publications is pleased to report that the proceedings from the 2015 Annual Assembly have been transcribed, printed and distributed. Respectfully submitted Bruce R. Howard, William Karstens, IV 32

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36 REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE Report No. 1 The Finance Committee has examined the records and accounts of the Grand Treasurer and the Grand Recorder and found them in proper order with the expenditures supported by vouchers and all monies received properly recorded. The members of this committee want to thank and commend the Grand Treasurer and the Grand Recorder for the excellent job they have done in managing the financial affairs of this Grand Council for the past year. This committee moves the acceptance of this report and the approval of the records of the Grand Treasurer and the Grand Recorder. Respectfully submitted, Donald C. Murray Russell J. Slora Willis J. Morse Report No. 2 Budget Budget Spent Grand Recorder s Expense $ $ $ Grand Treasurer s Expense Grand Lecturer s Expense Grand Master s Travel 1, , , Grand Recorder s Office Expense Proceedings Past Grand Master s Jewel Recovery Past Grand Master s Jewel Past Grand Master s Apron General Grand Council Dues Festivals Guests 1, , , Office Rent Audit Insurance Triennial Miscellaneous DeMolay Rainbow York Rite Planning Conference Office Automation TOTALS $8, $7, $7,