The Scottish Rite Reporter Prsrt Std U.S. POSTAGE PAID Published Monthly 855 Elm Avenue Permit No. 16 Los Alamitos, CA Long Beach, CA 90813-4414 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED Special request: If you are a family member receiving this REPORTER for a member of the Long Beach Scottish Rite, please notify us if this member is in the hospital or incapacitated in any way, Thank you. THE SCOTTISH RITE REPORTER Vol. XXXVII Published Monthly August 2009 SUPPORT OUR TROOPS!!! Learn more about being a Mason, attend the Scottish Rite.
Illz Ronald A. Seale, 33, Sovereign Grand Commander Illz William F. Stovall, 33, Sovereign Grand Inspector General of the Supreme Coucil in California LONG BEACH BODIES OF THE ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED SCOTTISH RITE OF FREEMASONRY 855 ELM AVE, LONG BEACH, CA 90813-4414 Telephone: (562) 435-8381 or (714) 633-1920 FAX: (562) 436-9891 www.lbscottishrite.org Illz Joseph W. R. Ashwill, 33 Personal Representative of the Sovereign Grand Inspector General of the Supreme Council in California LBPR@lbscottishrite.org James B. Scribner, 32, KzCzCzHz, Assistant Personal Representative Illz Murray E. Cooke, 33, General Secretary secretary@lbscottishrite.org 2009 Officers Chris Christopherson, 32, Venerable Master - L.B. Lodge of Perfection Stanley Ault, 32, Wise Master - L.B. Chapter of Rose Croix Roy E. Steinfeld, 32, KzCzCzHz, Commander - L.B. Council of Kadosh William P. Willis, 32, KzCzCzHz, Master of Kadosh - L.B. Consistory Serving All Bodies Robert J. Moss, 32, K z C z C z H z, Treasurer Douglas Tayrien, 32, Orator Ill z Thomas G. Horngren, 33, Almonor Fr. Chuck Maier, 33, Chaplain Ill z John R. Jansen, 33, Tiler Harry G. Ben Benezette, 32, K z C z C z H z, Tiler Emeritus Cathedral Staff Illz Don Fishering, 33, Chief Purveyor Matthew Marfield, 32, KzCzCzHz, Librarian Roy E. Steinfeld, 32, KzCzCzHz, Director Sound Department Ira Sadis, 32, Lighting Director Illz Aldo M. Zanier, 33, Stage Director Illz Preston M. Jones, 33, Director of the Robing Room 2 THE SCOTTISH RITE REPORTER Degree Staff Illz James Sunseri, 33, Classroom Director Illz Tim Cable, 33, Director of the Work Support Organizations Hans Zuchett, 32, Chieftain, Knights of Saint Andrew Charles H. Bruggeman, 32, K z C z C z H z, President, Talons & Talonetts Scottish Rite Reporter Ben Ponder, 32, KzCzCzHz, Managing Editor & Typesetter 2146 Mt. Shasta Dr., San Pedro, CA 90732 - (310) 831-0458 E-Mail: bjtypesett@dslextreme.com Fax (310) 547-3943 Illz Terry T. Sargent, 33, Proofreader SUPPORT THESE MEMBERS WHO ARE MAKING THIS REPORTER POSSIBLE WEDBUSH MORGAN SECURITIES Joseph W. R. Ashwill Assistant Vice President, Investments (949) 719-3200 FAX (949) 759-9539 (888) 247-8069 E-Mail Joseph.Ashwill@Wedbush.com 1600 Newport Center Dr., Suite 100 Newport Beach, CA 92660 Members of the New York Stock Exchange N. Jack Dilday Senior Vice President - Investments Serving Long Beach and all Southern California since 1975 Sales and Service Body Shop Parts and Accessories. 3399 East Willow Street Long Beach, CA 90806 www.coastcadillac.com KNIGHTS OF ST ANDREW MEETING, SATURDAY, SEPT. 19th L.B. SCOTTISH RITE AT 10:00 A.M. OF TALONS & TALONETTS LUNCHEON MEETING THURSDAY,???? PETROLEUM CLUB 11:30 A.M. Randolph D. Dilday Vice President - Investments 562-799-7575 Toll Free No. 877-799-9425 6700 East Pacific Coast Hwy., Suite 280 Long Beach, CA 90803-9919 FAX 562-493-8578 SEASIDE PRINTING COMPANY, INC. 1220 East Fourth Street Long Beach, CA (562) 437-6437 www.seasideprinting.com 562-595-6076 AUGUST, 2009 19
SUPPORT THESE MEMBERS WHO ARE MAKING THIS REPORTER POSSIBLE Call me, I will take care of all your real estate needs! BROTHER ALDO ZANIER OWNER - BROKER 5924 NAPLES PLAZA LONG BEACH, CA 90803 CELL (562) 508-7303 Signal Hill High Twelve Club Meets every Tuesday at Noon Coco s Restaurant 11510 E. South Street Cerritos, CA Ladies & Guests welcome Dick Barber, President, 562-425-4644 THE ROYAL ORDER OF TALONS / TALONETTS This Masonic support unit is open to all members of the Masonic Order and includes wives and widows. We meet monthly on the 2nd Thursday at the L.B. Petroleum Club, 3636 Linden Ave., at 12 noon. Charles Bruggeman, 32, KzCzCzHz, President Past Master s Shrine Club El Bekal Shrine Bi-monthly dinner meetings, second Monday, starting in February Please call for reservations. Ron Schemm, M.D., President Preston Jones, Secretary, 562-596-3869 18 THE SCOTTISH RITE REPORTER Notes from the Personal Representative Illz Joseph W. R. Ashwill, 33 Personal Representative of the Sovereign Inspector General in CA Well as we move along into the autumn of our year we are grateful for having had a very successful Southwest Regional Reunion Class. Of course this did not jus happen, it was a concentrated effort on the part of many Brothers and Ladies over a 12 month period to end with a successful conclusion. The University of Masonry successfully graduated 63 Masters of the Royal Secret, with the combination of three Orients and several Valleys, to welcome them as members into Scottish Rite Masonry. We are hopeful that this event was the beginning of an education that will continue to grow in their individual lives and Valleys. It is the individual commitment and dedication of new and elder statesmen Brothers that will cause the flag of Scottish Rite Masonry to flourish in the future. Our rehabilitation efforts continue at our Long Beach Valley, as we now have our flower beds restored as a result of repairing our sprinkler system, which is automated so as to conserve plants and water, they are here for all to enjoy. It goes without saying that our beloved Cathedral was in need of lots of TLC after some 80 years of band-aid repairs, but with the support of the Members donations to the Cathedral Building Fund and our rentals, we hopefully will continue our progress. We want to express our gratitude as well for the effort put forth over the past two years by our Brother Illz John, Jack Palmer, 33, as President of our Childhood Clinic Board. Illz Brother Jack has served with distinction during a time of major change, and we wish him the very best in whatever new activities he has now chosen to pursue. Since we all know that change is never ending, it now becomes necessary to reconstitute our Clinic Board in preparation for our future plans. We are moving forward in our plans for the annual fund-raiser for our Clinic, which is now scheduled for December 11, 2009, and we solicit your support and will keep you advised as we develop our exciting program for our children. The newly appointed Board is now structured as follows; Honz Mahmoud Ghaffari, 32, KzCzCzHz, President, Honz James Scribner, 32, KzCzCzHz, Vice-President, Illz Joseph W. R. Ashwill, 33, Consultant, and with the following Members; Honz Richard Ivey, 32, KzCzCzHz, Illz Preston Jones, 33, Ira Sadis, 32, Fred Shooshani, 32, and Douglas Tayrien, 32, to provide the leadership necessary for the present and future important activities of our (Continued on Page 12) AUGUST, 2009 3
Donations made are recorded at the time they are received, and depending on the amount, some are acknowledged by special letters to the donors. However, REPORTER deadlines mean that we may not get everyone listed. If you were missed this time, your name will appear in the next issue. We DO appreciate your donations. Knights of St Andrew: This is notification that next year dues will increase from $10.00 to $15.00 per year. MASONIC SERVICE BUREAU OF LONG BEACH Serving Area Lodges, Visiting Masons and Their Families LAKEWOOD MASONIC CENTER 5918 Parkcrest St., Long Beach, CA 90808-2120 Telephone: (562) 429-7237 Fax: (562) 429-7457 4 THE SCOTTISH RITE REPORTER LANGUAGE CENTER DONATIONS WITH DUES Mark Fulkerson In Memoriam CHARLES L. BRINER CLYDE M. BECK HARRY HINTERGARDT, JR. MASONRY MAKING GOOD MEN EVEN BETTER ANDY HOWARTH P.O.Box 90091 Long Beach, CA 90809 Phone: (562) 494-7749 (949) 497-7867 Fax: (562) 494-6749 (310) 442-1595 Toll: (866) 494- EURO (714) 960-9323 Scottish Rite Word Search By DR Rawson, 32, KzCzCzHz We know that there are many of you who enjoy these types of puzzles. So, here s what we have done. The puzzle below contains words that were used in a previous REPORTER. We hope you enjoy this, please let us know. Good hunting! F U N E T A R B E L E C B A D N N D T G E G A Y O V C I M Y R E D F F Q S N B J R R A M S F P T R E F Q K N V F U O I I E S I N B C E N B A C N M L H R T F L H K T N R M O Z I O H A N N I I Q U E N C P M I M I G C L S U G N G E E N I A G L T D L I F E E M K L R R H O V R L C M M Z I I T R N H Q M E I K M Y N E M P L A N E T N C S A G S AIRFARE, BUS, CELEBRATE, CHILDREN, ECONOMY, FAMILIES, FUN, GAS, HOT, LIFE, LIFE, MEMORIES, PICNIC, PLANE, QUICK, SHIP, SUMMER, THINKING, TIME, TRAIN, TRAVEL AUGUST, 2009 17
Please join us Friday, October 2nd, for our Ladies Night Dinner. Make your reservations early. This is a good time to introduce your friends to Freemasonry. DINNER RESERVATIONS No later than 3 days prior to the dinner Make Check Payable to L. B. Scottish Rite, and mail to L. B. Scottish Rite 855 Elm Ave., Long Beach, CA 90813 PHONE RESERVATIONS: (562) 435-8381 (714) 633-1920 E-Mail: secretary@lbscottishrite.com Phone Reservations Must Guarantee to show or pay Vegetarian dinners are available, please let us know at the time of your reservation NAME ADDRESS CITY ZIP PHONE ( ) Event Date $15.00 Each Total $ 16 THE SCOTTISH RITE REPORTER Life Membership Program Long Beach Scottish Rite Under age 49, 21 times annual dues... $1,995.00 50 to 54 inclusive, 19 times annual dues... $1,805.00 55 to 59 inclusive, 17 times annual dues... $1,615.00 60 to 64 inclusive, 14 times annual dues... $1,330.00 65 and over, 11 times annual dues... $1,045.00 The advantage of a life membership is that the funds will be contributing to our Scottish Rite in perpetuity and you ll no longer be paying dues. $3.00 per pin The profit of $1.00 goes to the Clinic. Long Beach Scottish Rite Language Center Give children the freedom to communicate. Support our center with a simple $3.00 donation and receive the pin shown on the left. If you want it mailed to you, please add $.50 per pin. Send your money to: Long Beach Scottish Rite, Clinic donation. You will be mailed your pin in 5 to 7 days. On behalf of the children, THANK YOU! From the Secretary s Desk By Illz Murray E. Cooke, 33, General Secretary of all Bodies AID AND ATTENDANCE FOR VETERANS Aid and Attendance is a medical reimbursement pension for Veterans, their spouses, and surviving spouses. It was established by an Act of Congress in 1952 under section 38 USC. It is a mandatory pension and is not subject to partisan spending or discretionary Federal budget cuts. In 2006 this program was funded at $4.3 billion dollars. This program does not require that the medical condition that requires a person to need the assistance of someone else on a regular basis. To qualify for this pension you need to have served at least 90 days active duty in the United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps or the U.S. Coast Guard, The Merchant Marines during World War 2 or the National Guard if their Unit was Federally Activated. This pension is available to all qualified Veterans even if you are receiving military retirement pay based on years of service. This pension benefit would likely be reduced for all qualified veterans receiving compensation based on disability. You must have served at least one day of Military Service during a war-time period. These War-Time Periods are: World War 1 - Apr. 16, 1917 to Nov. 11, 1918 World War 2 - Dec. 7, 1941 to Dec. 31, 1946 Korea - Jan. 25, 1950 to Jan. 31, 1955 Viet Nam - Aug. 5, 1964 to May 7, 1975 Lebanon Campaign - Aug. 5, 1982 to end to be determined Granada Campaign - Oct. 25, 1983 to Dec. 15, 1983 Panama Campaign - Dec. 20, 1989 to Jan. 31, 1990 Persian Gulf - Aug. 2, 1990 to end; to be determined A Veteran that was on active duty in a theater of operation prior to the date(s) listed above may be an exception to the dates listed. This is determined on a case-by-case basis. This program pays up to: $1,632.00 monthly for a veteran; $1, 055.00 monthly for a surviving spouse; $1,949.00 monthly for veteran and spouse. These funds may be used to pay the following: 1) Nursing home long term care. 2) Assisted living or for adult care services such as board and care. 3) And in some cases it pays family members, except for the spouse, to provide care at home. 4) Professional home care providers to come into the home. Qualification is more difficult. 5) Up to $1200.00 to renovate the home to help with disability - such as ramps and grab bars. (Continued on Page 15) AUGUST, 2009 5
Light On Masonry Another happy donation to our Library brings us a book both old and new: Light on Masonry The History and Rituals of America s Most Important Exposé, by Illz Arturo de Hoyos, 33, Kz.YzCzHz, SRRS, 2008. This is a facsimile reproduction of the original Fifth Edition of Elder David Bernard s Light on Masonry, 1832, with a historical introduction and commentary by the Author. It may be stated that Light on Masonry was the first of the comprehensive exposures published in America, revealing forty eight degrees, including the York Rite, Detached Degrees, French Degrees, and nearly all of the degrees of the Scottish Rite, as they were worked in the first quarter of the nineteenth century. Out of curiosity, I decided to compare three Scottish Rite Rituals to Bernard s Exposure. I set my 19th Century Lodge of Perfection Ritual Manuscript, my Ordo ab Chao, Poemandres Press, 1995, and a 20th Century Manuscript of Rituals attributed to Claude Samory next to Light on Masonry, all being opened to the 4th Degree. Not surprisingly, Bernard s 4th Degree was more of the nature of a Lecture, consisting of a brief Opening, Reception, and Obligation, followed by a lengthy question and answer Lecture. In the early days of the Scottish Rite, it was common to communicate the degrees, and is very close to the Samory 4th Degree, and less so to the Ordo ab Chao 4th Degree. To my surprise, the 4th Degree of the 19th Century Lodge of Perfection Manuscript, attributed to John James Joseph Gourgas, was the most different, being composed as a ceremony, and being the most brief. While Masonic Expose s are generally written off by Masons as being hostile, deceptive, and/or inaccurate, the fact is that they are usually accurate for their time; and while Anti-Masons often blindly accept them as being upto-date, Masonic Rites and Degrees do evolve and change. A careful Masonic Student or Researcher with authentic sources for reference can, more often than not, use these exposures to chart the evolution of Masonic Work. There have been many Masonic Exposés before Light on Masonry, mostly in Europe (many of which were sold in the States). William Morgan s Freemasonry Exposed of 1827 took America by storm, and started what has been called the Anti-Masonic Movement. The first edition of Light on Masonry closely followed in 1829, and was the first American Exposé to reveal the High Grades to the masses. Explore the Anti-Masonic Movement and, Light on Masonry here at your Scottish Rite Library. We ll see you there! 6 THE SCOTTISH RITE REPORTER Library Corner By Matthew T. Marfield, 32, KzCzCzHz, Librarian From the Secretary s Desk (Continued from Page 8) From the date your application is accepted by the Veterans Administration, all payments are retroactive, back to the 1st day of the first month after the application is accepted. This program is income and asset based, however, it is not necessary to spend down your assets until you reach poverty level to be eligible for this benefit. Assets can be repositioned without creating any period of ineligibility. The major obstacle to obtaining Aid and Attendance benefits is the long and complicated application process required by the Veterans Administration. When you think about the fact that a Veteran can receive up to $19,000.00 a year, a surviving spouse can receive up to $12,660.00 a year, a Veteran and spouse can receive up to $23,00.00 a year TAX FREE, I think you ll agree the benefit is worth putting up with a little inconvenience. Why Professional help is advised : 1) To assure that you get the full benefit to which you are entitled. 2) To avoid: costly delay or denial of claim. anxiety and frustration of dealing with the Gov t in an area where you do not know the rules. inadvertently disqualifying yourself from other Gov t programs if your health declined further. being disqualified because you did not know how to properly re-position your assets. creating unnecessary tax liabilities. making serious mistakes related to the handling of your assets. 3) To be sure that all your legal documents support your desired goals. Questions you need to ask of those who offer to help you: How much training and experience do you have? How much work do you do and what am I responsible for? Is this your full time job or do you just handle claims occasionally? What is your success rate with my type of claim? What resources do you have if my claim is denied and I need to appeal? During the summer of 2007 I researched various assisted living facilities for friends who presently reside in one. At the time, I had never heard of Aid and Assistance. Fortunately, I met Amos Johnson and eventually retained him for his professional assistance. He is a financial planner with over 30 years experience with CLU and ChFC designations. For the past 12 years his agency has specialized in asset preservation for seniors who are seeking government benefits. His agency works with a law firm which does the actual application. This firm has completed thousands of applications with a near perfect success rate. The agency partners with other professionals to provide comprehensive assistance to handle all needs related to qualifying for the Veterans Administration Aid and Attendance benefit. The team consists of an attorney, accountant, notary, home care providers, placement specialist, a Realtor, property manager, death benefit specialist, as well as a case manager. If you would like more information, please contact Brother Ed Harris, 32, Valley of San Diego AUGUST, 2009 15
AUGUST CALENDAR (Closed on Mondays) SATURDAY, AUGUST 8th 7:30 P.M. ORDER OF EASTERN STAR RECEPTION FOR HON. MIKE WINFORD, 32, KzCzCzHz, GRAND SENTINEL RECEPTION TUESDAY, AUGUST 11th 7:00 P.M. STATED MEETING & IzGzAzCz MEETING SATURDAY, AUGUST 15th NO MEETINGS SCHEDULED FOR KNIGHTS OF ST. ANDREW SEPTEMBER CALENDAR (Closed on Mondays) SEPTEMBER IS DARK THERE ARE NO DEGREES OR DINNERS SCHEDULED OUR DINNERS WILL RESUME IN OCTOBER SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19th 10:00 A.M. KNIGHTS OF ST ANDREW MEETING HAVE AN ENJOYABLE SUMMER SEE YOU IN OCTOBER The Importance of Investigations (Continued from Page 7) what Freemasonry is, an applicant can make an honest decision about becoming a member. Those of you who are asked to conduct an investigation must realize that this is an important function of the Lodge and must be handled in a professional manner. If asked, please perform this task in a serious, timely manner. It has been suggested that a committee of three go together and conduct an investigation. I believe that Grand Lodge in future should consider this option. Through a proper investigation the Masonic Families of Blue Lodge, Scottish and York Rite and the Shrine will gain members desiring to participate and contribute to our outstanding fraternity. Remember: We cannot initiate anyone until they are investigated. NOTICE! The next meeting of the Knights of St Andrew will take place on September 19th at 10:00 a.m. at the Long Beach Valley. The cost of our dues will be going up to $15.00 per year on January 1, 2010. FREEMASONRY TO ENJOY LIFE AND SERVE MANKIND THE IMPORTANCE OF INVESTIGATIONS By Harold Kennedy, 32, Expert, Chapter of Rose Croix One of the most important duties in Freemasonry is the investigation of a person soliciting Lodge membership. This is a requirement all Lodges must take part in prior to balloting on a new member. The normal procedure for this process is that when an application is read in the Stated Meeting, the Master gives an investigation form to three individuals who will then contact the individual and meet with him. Afterward the form is turned in to the Master and the application is balloted upon at the next Stated Meeting. Below are some reasons for this necessary procedure. Personal Contact: This is the first time that someone applying to join a Masonic Lodge can have a lengthy, serious discussion with a member of the Lodge. Through this process the potential candidate is getting to know a Mason and is also getting an understanding of the basic workings of Masonry. He is answering questions asked by the investigator and is encouraged to ask any questions he may have concerning the fraternity. All this takes place through the question and answer format of the investigation. Clarification: The applicant will get a better understanding of the requirements and benefits of Lodge Membership. He will be told about proficiency examinations that are part of a requisite which is necessary before he becomes a Master Mason. The investigators can let him know about activities that his family can attend and Lodge programs he can become involved in. And he will discover that lifelong friendships are to be found within the fraternity. Any misconceptions can be cleared up in the investigating process. Mentoring: This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is on the investigation committee to consider mentoring the person he is speaking with. By getting to know this potential Brother an opportunity could arise to coach this man. Once you, as an investigator, establish a rapport with this person you may wish to instruct him through his degree work. He will be encouraged to get involved with the Lodge and our other appendant bodies. And you will have the satisfaction of knowing that your assistance helped with the growth and development of a Brother Mason. Family Awareness: The applicant s family will have a chance to ask about Masonry and how it affects them. Any issues they may have can be satisfactorily answered. Remember: the family must be completely comfortable with this man joining Masonry. Decision: Through the interviewing process the applicant may decide that he has made a fantastic choice to join Freemasonry. Or, he may decide that this organization was not what he thought it was and may decline to join. This decision saves a lot of time on both parties. How many times has a candidate been initiated and then never seen again? By getting a clear perspective on (Continued on Page 14) 14 THE SCOTTISH RITE REPORTER AUGUST, 2009 7
What is a Scottish Rite Mason? By Roy Ellis Steinfeld, 32, KzCzCzHz, Commander of Kadosh With the three holidays of Memorial Day, Flag Day and Independence Day having occurred in the last three months, I started thinking about the question above, What is a Scottish Rite Mason? Of course, this is an extremely personal opinion, which follows, but I thought I would give it a shot. A Scottish Rite Mason is not delineated by any particular appearance or occupation. His is a person from many places, with many shades of skin, of different sizes and varied energies. He may have a master s or doctorate degree, or he may never have finished high school. He may drive an expensive car, or perhaps he relies on horses to carve out a living out of the earth. But regardless of what he is, lacing the different physical features together is a bond of strength in tradition, which exemplifies the Masonic way, a way that opens the doors of opportunity and enlightenment to all people who may knock upon them. A Scottish Rite Mason has a spirit that responds to the call of liberty. A Scottish Rite Mason does not view armed conflict as a means of getting what he wants, but rather as a means of protecting what he has. His is one who loves that peace. He sees the knowledge of experience in his past, feels the pride in the accomplishments of the present, and has hope for the future of the world, even when others would view the days to come with dismay. A realist, he finds no guarantee of freedom or security in the future solely because he has always had it in the past. The American Scottish Rite Mason finds nothing at all unusual about getting cold chills when our flag passes in review, for our flag has always been a inspiration: as when the smoked cleared over Fort McHenry, when its sheen was reflected on the sands of Iwo Jima, and when the colors glistened on the craft that took the first man to the moon. He sees nothing strange about getting a lump in his throat when the national anthem is played, or weeping (yes, weeping) unashamed when taps are played for one who paid the ultimate price for his freedom. A Scottish Rite Mason is someone, I think and feel, that realizes that the only thing that exceeds that price is freedom itself. He never forgets the indebtedness he has because of that sacrifice, for without it, his and our freedom would only be an unreachable concept in some philosopher s mind. So what is a Scottish Rite Mason? A man who is patriotic without being jingoistic; a man who believes in a Supreme Being, and allows his fellowmen to believe in their Supreme Being, whatever they may call him; and a man who feels and attempts to understand the world in which he lives and is willing to share with all he may come in contact with that feeling of solidarity... Lodge of Perfection By Chris Christopherson, 32, Venerable Master Brethren, Welcome to the August edition of the Scottish Rite Reporter. In my humble offering to this edition, I would like to reflect upon some of my experiences in the 28 years since I was raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason. I d like to characterize these as my personal observances of the, Good, Bad, and Ugly within our beloved fraternity. Being the optimist that I am, I d like to start with some of my recent experiences with the good of freemasonry, although for me my first exposure to our craft was the life my father led, and the incalculable lessons in integrity, morals, and ethical conduct that he taught on a daily basis. The first experience I d like to share occurred when I was visiting the Laughlin, NV, area back in December, 2004 (my son is a conductor for BNSF, and was stationed in Needles at the time). I had occasion to go to the Fez Room, of the Shrine Club in Bullhead City one night to see if any of the brethren I might know would be hanging around that night. I was disappointed to see that no one from the 80 s was present; therefore, no one would remember me, nor did I expect any satisfying Masonic dialogue to transpire. I ordered a beer, drank it, and was about to leave when a brother at the far end of the bar queried me, Whence came you. That initial question led to a series of others, and we discovered that we were both Past Masters of the lodge. We both agreed that too many brothers were passing through the degrees of the Blue Lodge without really getting it, and thus, were ill-prepared to appreciate the beauty and teachings of the higher degrees. This brother gave me an Alan Jackson Christmas Song CD, even though we had only just met, and I reciprocated a couple of months later with a bolo tie (very popular in Arizona). The next several experiences relate to people I have met here in California, since moving from Nevada. The first was meeting the Reynolds family. I met Johnny while he was obligating a candidate, and his apron fell off (I handed it back). Later, I became acquainted with his father, Officers Coach of Solomon s Staircase Lodge #357, and my mentor, John H. Reynolds. I met and sponsored a great young man into masonry by virtue of using his establishment for my dry cleaning, and his asking, What does it take to become a mason? After retiring from Southern California Edison, I worked briefly for AES Huntington Beach. I met a rather new brother who is a Control Operator there, who asked me about my ring. Of all the crews and people I had the pleasure to get to know at Huntington, this brother went out of his way to make me feel welcome, and to get his crew to accept me as one of the team. I am now back at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station working as a contract safety (Continued on Page 11) 8 THE SCOTTISH RITE REPORTER AUGUST, 2009 13
Notes from the Personal Representative (Continued from Page 3) primary charity, Rite Care. I am certain that each of these Brethren and our Members understand the commitment needed for our Rite Care to succeed, it will be through our mutual support that makes it happen. I call to your attention that our Brother, Honz Johnny Reynolds, 32, KzCzCzHz, will be honored Sunday the 16th at 1:00 P.M., Pasadena Scottish Rite, be receiving the coveted DeMolay Legion of Honor Award, for his major contribution to our young men involved in DeMolay activities. We of the Long Beach Valley congratulate him for achieving and receiving this very high Award and tribute, and encourage his many Brothers to attend this important occasion to personally congratulate him for his contribution to this important young men s group of Masonry. Until next time, May God Bless You. El Bekal El Bekal Shrine Long Beach Shrine Club Shrine s Oldest Club The next meeting will be Monday, SEPTEMBER 14, 2009 at 11:30 A.M. President, Gary Hooper 562-694-3351 Meets quarterly at the Petroleum Club in Long Beach. Join the oldest and the best Shrine Club in America. Secretary, Don Sever 562-494-5005 NO Reservations Necessary 10 CLUB MEMBERS Over 125 Main, Lewis Jr., 33...141 PROVIDING INNOVATIVE, QUALITY, HOME HEALTH SERVICES INCLUDING: Skilled Nursing, Home Health Aide, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Medical Social Services 3821 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91107 (888) 540-1300 (626) 351-1300 Fax: (626) 351-1328 Over 50 Hernandez, 32, KzCzCzHz...51 Over 25 Chastain, James A. Sr., 33... 37 Lemons, H. Douglas, 33... 25 Navarro, Benjamin E., 32... 29 Anderson, Ian, 32, KzCzCzHz... 26 Bodnar, Bart, 33... 26 Pontello, Frank, 33... 25 Manoukian, Vartan, 32... 45 Thompson, Charles, Jr., 33... 25 Sunseri, James, 33... 26 Over 10 Nomicos, Eugene N., 33... 24 Johnson, Lester Jr., 32... 19 Benton, Lowell E., 32, KzCzCzHz 17 Lopez, John C., 32, KzCzCzHz... 10 Benezette, Ben, 32, KzCzCzHz... 10 Lord, John, 33... 15 Boyadjian, Sarkis, 32... 10 Ludwig, Bob, 33... 13 Corcoba, Axureliano, 32... 14 Luben, Dougan, 33... 15 Dukellis, Arthur F., 32... 12 Palmer, John A., 33... 15 Garcia, Danny, 33... 10 Sargent, Terry, 33... 16 Thagard, Raymond, 33... 10 Van De Weghe, Bill, 32... 12 Hull, Donald, 33... 12 Wallace, John, 33... 10 Roberts, Edward, 32... 10 Wilde, George, 33... 10 12 THE SCOTTISH RITE REPORTER g LIC. #0559101 SINCE 1883 Stewart INSURANCE SERVICE INC. TOM E. STEWART Telephone (562) 498-0669 (714) 826-4183 FAX (562) 985-0459 tom@stewartins.com AUGUST, 2009 9
Do You Know These Masons? By Roy Ellis Steinfeld, 32, KzCzCzHz, Commander of Kadosh This Masonic Quiz is for your enjoyment. In two months there will be another quiz, which may be a bit harder. Roy 1. A motion picture star and comedian born in 1880, who played in The Man on the Flying Trapeze, A member of E. Coppee Mitchell Lodge #605, Philadelphia, PA. 2. A man whose brother, as President of the United States, said in 1955, I feel a distinct sense of pride in appearing before this group (Masons) which takes on it own shoulders the care, and welfare of the unfortunate. 3. Lieutenant General, U.S. Army, and Director of Selective Service in 1948. 4. Congressional Medal of Honor awardee, 26 victories as a fighter pilot of WW I. Spent three weeks on a life raft in the Pacific during WW II. 5. An Ohio newspaper publisher and later President of the United States, who once said, I have been a better citizen for being a Mason. There is nothing in Masonry that a free, religious, and just American could not be proud of. 6. A member of Welcome Lodge #255, Lemoore, CA. Grand Master of DeMolay International, a graduate chemist and a lawyer, who was also Judge of the : Superior Court of Los Angeles. 7. A member of the Baseball Hall of Fame and the greatest pitcher in the first quarter of the 20 th Century. In the 1905 World series he pitched three shutouts and was the first to win 30 games in three successive years. 8. Bandmaster and composer known as The March King. Leader of the U.S. Marine Corps Band from 1880 to 1892. 9. One of America s most famous physical culturist until his death in 1955. A foundation financed entirely with his own money provided welfare and training to children in the United States and overseas. A member of Publicity Lodge #1000, New York City, NY. 10. United States Minister of France in 1801. Negotiated the Louisiana Purchase. He administered the oath of office to the first President of the United States, Freemason George Washington. (Answers will appear in next month s Scottish Rite Reporter. Score: 8 or more: excellent. Six correct answers: good. If 5 or less, your knowledge of Masons in history should improve.) Lodge of Perfection (Continued from Page 13) professional for the U2 Steam Generator Replacement Project Team. I was pleased to learn that one of the carpenters there, who I originally met back in 2007 during a class to teach us how to use the new phone system (and who also noticed my ring and asked the proper question) had gone on to be raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason in Vista Lodge #687. Here in our Valley of Long Beach, more of the good of freemasonry is exhibited. The first good brother I met in our Valley (excepting John A. Reynolds, John H. Reynolds, and James Chastain) was Illustrious Jim Sunseri, who made an impassioned plea for cast members after one memorable Saturday a couple of years ago when he was Director of the Work. Around this time, I also met Illustrious Joe Ashwill, Illustrious John McElhaney, and later on, Illustrious Tim Cable. As I attended more functions, played a role in many of the degrees, and participated in the recent SWRRC Planning Committee, I had the distinct pleasure of meeting many more of the fabulous brothers who make up the membership of our Valley, as well as the Valley of Los Angeles. All of this is what I consider the good of freemasonry. The bad, in my personal experience with freemasonry came during my early years after having been raised, when I learned that a brother, of our fraternity had been caught stealing 55 gallon drums of oil from the coal-fired plant I worked at in Laughlin, Nevada. He was taking these drums of oil to Texas, and selling them for his own profit. This brother wore a ring, talked the talk, BUT he certainly did not walk the walk. So called men, of his ilk are what gives our beloved fraternity a black eye! The only ugly experience I can relate is one of abuse of power. When I first became a member of my lodge in Arizona, where I would eventually become Master, I heard of three Past Masters who held a strangle hold on the three top elected positions in the lodge; namely, Master, Senior, and Junior Wardens. They made it clear to anyone trying to break up the triumvirate that no one was sufficiently versed in the ritual to advance beyond Senior Deacon. These Past Masters went around and around in the chairs, leaving the Master s chair, going back to the Junior Warden s chair, so that they occupied the Oriental Chair every three years. Finally, the lodge got someone elected who was well-versed in the ritual, and made sure all the progressive chairs were filled with brethren who could advance. The triumvirate was broken: one Past Master was never seen in our lodge again, another was embittered and highly critical of anyone else s exemplification of the work, and the other eventually became a Deputy District Grand Lecturer for our district (analogous to our District Inspectors). Brethren, let us resolve to conduct ourselves so that no aspersions can ever be cast upon our beloved fraternity as a result of behaviors that are within our control. We can all recall from our first introduction into freemasonry the words, Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity. May we always endeavor to do so, and live our lives so as to ultimately reflect honor upon ourselves, and the legacy that each of us will leave when (as Shakespeare wrote) we shuffle off this mortal coil. 10 THE SCOTTISH RITE REPORTER AUGUST, 2009 11