Picnic Table Lodge

Patty and I were the guests of Excelsior Lodge No. 113 last night for their picnic table lodge. The threat of inclement weather moved the party to the lodge hall from S.W. Ron McConnell's back yard, but the brothers did a great job of brining the outdoor picnic spirit indooors - and without the ants!

DR Dean Dorholt was also present to enjoy the festive board.

No awards. No long speeches (except that I may have pushed the boundaries on that one!). Just a fun evening of good food and better fellowship.

WM Steve Maslonka decreed that anyone who failed to use the ancient terms for common instruments (e.g., "cannon" for glass; "tile" for plate, etc.) would be fined one dime. Good thing the Master brought a bag full of dimes, as I believe he contributed more than anyone last night! But, it was always a joyful fine - all proceeds go to Excelsior's "Bikes for Books" program.

And if you go to Exclesior Apple Days Saturday, be sure to stop by the lodge for apple pancakes in the morning, and brats a little later in the day.

Thanks, Excelsior Lodge! Patty and I had a great time!

Friends vs. Minnesota Friends

OK, so it's a slow news day here in Winthrop. I'm pulling out one of those clever e-mails that get passed around all the time. Enjoy!

FRIENDS: Never ask for food.
MINNESOTA FRIENDS: Always bring the food.

FRIENDS: Will say 'hello'.
MINNESOTA FRIENDS: Will give you a big hug and a kiss.

FRIENDS: Call your parents Mr. and Mrs.
MINNESOTA FRIENDS: Call your parents Mom and Dad.

FRIENDS: Have never seen you cry.
MINNESOTA FRIENDS: Cry with you.

FRIENDS: Will eat at your dinner table and leave.
MINNESOTA FRIENDS: Will spend hours there, talking, laughing, help you clear the table & do the dishes, then play dominoes or cards and just being together.

FRIENDS: Know a few things about you.
MINNESOTA FRIENDS: Could write a book with direct quotes from you.

FRIENDS: Will leave you behind if that's what the crowd is doing.
MINNESOTA FRIENDS: Will kick the whole crowds' back-ends that left you.

FRIENDS: Would knock on your door.
MINNESOTA FRIENDS: Walk right in and say, 'I'm home!'.

FRIENDS: will visit you in jail.
MINNESOTA FRIENDS: will spend the night in jail with you.

FRIENDS: will visit you in the hospital when you're sick
MINNESOTA FRIENDS: will cut your grass and clean your house then come spend the night with you in the hospital and cook for you when you come home

FRIENDS: have you on speed dial
MINNESOTA FRIENDS: have your number memorized.

FRIENDS: Are for a while.
MINNESOTA FRIENDS: Are for life.

FRIENDS: Might ignore this.
MINNESOTA FRIENDS: Will forward this to all their Minnesota Friends and those who once lived in MINNESOTA.

Tolerance Awareness Tuesday - Hubert H. Humphrey

"On one occasion, a traffic policeman in handing out a ticket called the violator a 'dirty Jew.' I suspended him for fifteen days without pay. I tried with far less success to stop the verbal abuse of Negroes." -- The Education of a Public Man: My Life and Politics, 1976, p. 99

Brother Hubert Humphrey started his political career as Mayor of Minneapolis. I presume that was his position when he took the action he talks about above.

Humphrey had a well-deserved reputation for long speeches. I attended a dinner where Humphrey was the featured speaker and heard him say that Muriel (his wife) once told him, “Hubert, you know that in order for a speech to be immortal it does not need to be eternal.”

But Brother Humphrey also had a well-deserved reputation for taking action and speaking out on important issues, no matter what the personal consequences may be. It was Humphrey’s speech at the 1948 Democratic National Convention that caused the Dixiecrat delegates to walk out, when he advocated for stronger civil rights. (The photo is of HHH giving that speech.)

Actions speak louder than words. Brother Humphrey had plenty of both. Will we, as Masons, have the moral courage to stand up for the rights of less-privileged when we have the opportunity?

Labor Day, 2009

The unofficial end of summer! I took a short hiatus from Masonic activities and spent the weekend with two of my three children and three of my five grandsons at the lake. The weather was great, but the mosquitoes, which hadn't been much of a problem all year (well, the three or so times I managed to make it to the lake this summer ...) were out in full force. It was nice to spend some time with family.

Thanks to W.B. Ted Martz for introducing me to a silly, but addictive, dice game called "Left, Center, Right". Even my six-year-old grandson had a great time playing!

Summer is over, and lodges all over Minnesota are gearing up for a great fall. I'm looking forward to visiting many in the next several months.

Provost and Judge

Last night, I played the part of a judge of Israel under Solomon the King who is approached by both sides of a dispute to sway the decision. It's a great degree (the 7th in the Scottish Rite) and has lots of meaning for those who pay attention.

My character is approached by the Spirit of Retribution and the Spirit of Inaction, each seeking to have the judge decide quickly, or to delay the decision. Finally, the Spirit of Justice appears with good advice for all persons cast in the role of Judge - and we all are in our various walks of life.

This year, there are more than 30 candidates participating in the Scottish Rite degrees. This is due, in no small part, to the yeoman's work of the Black Crow - Worshipful Brother Ed Perlman. I had a chance to meet with the class after the degree, and they all seemed to be enjoying their journey to More Light in Masonry.

Brothers from Cataract Lodge were also present - several of them in the cast or in the class - and presented a check for $5000 for the Scottish Rite Rite Care Program for children with hearing and speech disabilities. Congratulations to Cataract Lodge and the Rite Care Program.

Masons at the State Fair

Since we are transitioning the KidsID program, this year at the State Fair booth we are promoting the Take 25 Program from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. This program encourages parents, grandparents, etc., to take 25 minutes and talk to their loved children about safety. The program gives specific, age-appropriate ways to talk about this important subject - keeping kids safe without scaring them too much.

I worked the 5 - 9 p.m. shift last night. The photo shows the changing of the shift at the booth.

It was kind of a slow night in the Education Building. We did have several parents and teachers stop by and pick up a brochure, as well as ask about the identification program we'll be rolling out after the first of the year. (Pilot/test projects will begin in October.)

It was a nice evening spent with good friends and brothers. Patty went along, too, and ran into Julie Neddermeyer (wife of PGM Neil) at the Horticulture Building.

If you attend the Great Minnesota Get-Together, please stop by the Education Building and say hi to the brothers in our booth. And, don't forget the Eastern Star food building. You may have to ask for directions to find it, but the food (and service!) is great!

Temple Lodge Outdoor Lodge and Hiram

Last evening, one of the newest brothers from Sibley Lodge No. 209, Jim Suedbeck, accompanied me on a visit to Temple Lodge's outdoor lodge. The weather was gorgeous, the comradeship exceptional, and the food, without equal!

Worshipful Brother Laurel Olson was presented with the Hiram Award last night. (That's a photo of me with him and Worshipful Master Steve Kilian.) Laurel told of joining the lodge just before he went into the service in the early 50's. On the train to basic training, the conductor noticed his ring and made sure that he had a compartment to sleep in, rather than a berth like all the other draftees. In basic, the sergeant in charge of KP one day noticed his ring, and ordered Laurel to accompany him as he rode around all day visiting all the KPs under his supervision. Laurel was quick to point out that his membership had reaped benefits pretty soon for him!

A most interesting part of the story was that both the conductor on the train and the sergeant at KP were Prince Hall Masons. That didn't keep them from recognizing and assisting a brother Mason, no matter the color of his skin. To our embarassment, I'm pretty sure that a Prince Hall Mason would not have received the same respect and consideration from an AF&AM in those days. ...

During my remarks, I mentioned that probably more than 45 years ago, I was perhaps the worst 2nd Class Scout in the history of the Boy Scouts of America. I offered one example: What other scout actually burned down his Scoutmaster's tent? Brother Art Benjamin confirmed my story, as he was the unlucky Scoutmaster for Troop Number 5, Green Isle Minnesota... That is a photo of me with Brother (I still call him "Mister") Benjamin.

You just never know what you're going to learn, or who you're going to run into, when you go to lodge.

Tolerance Awareness Tuesday, World War II

70 years ago today, Nazi Germany invaded Poland, thus starting World War II. Wikepedia indicates that anywhere from 50 to over 70 million people worldwide died as the result of this conflict.

Included in the casualties is some six million jews and others in Nazi concentration camps. I have written earlier of Eli Wiesel's book, Night, which describes the horrors he and his family endured in the Holocaust and the impact that had on me.

The cartoon by Wiley has been circulating the internet since probably 2002. It helps us remember what happened, and not just to the millions who perished, but those who survived and retain the memories...

Today is a good day, as men and as Masons, to reflect on the horrors that can be wrought if good men remain silent in the face of tyranny.

Let us, today, once more pledge, "Never again!"

Sir Winston Churchill Lodge No. 351

Yesterday, I and other Grand Lodge officers had the privilege of constituting a new lodge in Minnesota. Sir Winston Churchill Lodge No. 351 was formed to practice and present emulation degrees in the British tradition. Additionally, the inaugural officers of SWC 351 were duly installed.

After the ceremonies at Excelsior Lodge, the pipes and drums led the way to the end of the block, and Jake O'Connor's Irish Pub, where a very nice festive board was held. The toasts were given in a slightly different manner than we are used to in our table lodges here in Minnesota.

Visiting dignitaries included MWB Akram Elias, Past Grand Master of the District of Columbia, RWB Alan Tibbits, Deputy District Grand Master of Ontario, Canada, and WB Joseph Howell of Ben Franklin Lodge No. 83, Madison Wisconsin, who was pleased to report that the number of emulation lodges in the Upper Midwest had just doubled in number! (Ben Franklin No. 83 being the other one.)

Congratulations to Worshipful Master John Gann and the members of Sir Winston Churchill Lodge No. 351, and especially to MWB Thomas Jackson, who had much to do with the formation of this lodge when he was Grand Master last year.

A Blue Tri-Fold

A blue, tri-fold that can open a new experience for a seeker of truth and light. But, he needs a friend, afterwards to become a brother, who can put that blue tri-fold in his hand, answer questions about the journey and remind him that every man in that lodge room has traveled the same path as he.

I had the extreme good fortune to strike up a conversation with a young man at work who noticed my ring. Over the course of several weeks, we had several conversations about Masonry. I put a copy of Freemasons for Dummies in his hands on Saturday, and when I saw him again on Tuesday, he was on page 220 (but he skipped the pages that said “Don’t read this if you plan to become a Mason”).

This week, he attended a cookout at the home of PGM Steve Johnson, and left the blue tri-fold, completed, behind. I have the privilege of being his top line signer.

A blue, tri-fold. How many times have I missed the opportunity to strike up a conversation with a man who only needed a few questions answered to take that step and fill out the petition?

I’m going to pledge to take the time, notice the interest and see if I can put another blue tri-fold in the hands of another good man, seeking to become better.

Will you, too?

Lyon County Jail Addition Cornerstone

For nearly 300 years Masons have joined with communities throughout the United States to lay cornerstones and celebrate the construction of new buildings that are dedicated to the principles and values that Masons share. The dedication ceremony features the symbolic laying of the building’s cornerstone, which is said to support the entire structure.

Last evening, the Grand Lodge officers and members of Delta Lodge in Marshall were privileged to ceremonially lay a cornerstone at the Lyon County Jail. This remodeled and expanded jail facility will increase the capacity of the facility as well as make it safer and more functional. It is an impressive facility.

And the cornerstone ceremony is an impressive one, as well. After proceeding to the site in formal procession, the stone is symbolically tested by the working tools of a Mason: the plumb, level, square and gavel. Corn, wine and oil are then poured on the stone, denoting nourishment, refreshment and joy. An oration was given by Grand Orator Bill Callister, followed by comments from the Chair of the Lyon County Board and the ceremony was closed with prayer.

If you have never witnessed a cornerstone dedication ceremony, I encourage you to do so. There will be another most impressive ceremony when the Grand Lodge dedicates the new Amplatz Children's Hospital at the University of Minnesota Riverside Campus October 24 at 11:00 a.m. Watch the Minnesota Mason and the Grand Lodge website for details, and plan to attend if you can.

Masonic Charities Retreat

On Tuesday, the Board of Directors of Minnesota Masonic Charities met for the semi-annual retreat and planning session. Good news: The stock market rebound will allow us to meet and even increase our grants over last year.

Masonic Charities has several "Legacy Programs" that have been traditionally funded. Elder services (the Masonic Homes in Bloomington and Northridge), the Masonic Cancer Center at the University of Minnesota, and our two scholarship programs (matching local lodge and chapter scholarship funds and the Signature and Legacy Scholarship programs) account for perhaps 3/4 of the grants made each year. In addition, MMC routinely matches funds for lodges and chapters to enhance their fundraising and community service projects. For more information on the programs, click on Minnesota Masonic Charities.

The major planning decision Tuesday was to continue and to promote and expand the matching program with local lodges and chapters to fund their local projects. Not only does this program contribute to improving local communities, it can be a source of news and promotion of the lodge in the lodge's communities.

We also voted to make a contribution to the Scottish Rite speech therapy clinics in Elk River and Duluth. This is a terrific program to help children overcome speech handicaps. More information at Rite Care Clinic.

Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Minnesota

Deputy Grand Master John Cook, Grand Secretary Doug Campbell and I had a very nice dinner and conversation with our counterparts the the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Minnesota recently.

We had no agenda, just a chance to get to know each other a little better. The Grand Lodge of Minnesota and the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Minnesota have recognized each other since an historic resolution was adopted by these bodies in 1992.

Deputy Grand Master Cook and I will be attending the annual communication of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge in September. I look forward to continued and expanded opportunities to extend the hands of fellowship between our two organizations.

Shown in the photo seated are the Grand Secretaries, RW Charles Snargrass and RW Douglas Campbell. Standing from the left are Grand Masters MW Keith Johnson and yours truly, and Deputy Grand Masters RW Alex Horne and RW John Cook.

Tolerance Awareness Tuesday - Ramadan

Christianity, Judaism and Islam all have periods of time when self-denial and fasting are encouraged. For Christians, this is Lent, for Jews, Yom Kippur and for Muslims, Ramadan, which began Saturday. (Masons, too, are taught to "subdue our passions.")

The following is a description of Ramadan from Holidays.net:

Observed by more than one billion Muslims around the world, Ramadan is a time for spiritual purification achieved through fasting, self-sacrifice and prayers.

Celebrated during the ninth month of Islamic calendar, the fast is observed each day from sunrise to sunset. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five Pillars of Islam. The Islamic belief that requires that Muslims perform five central duties in order to strengthen their faith. While Islam has two major sects, the Sunnis and the Shiites, all Muslims aim to realize these five pillars in their lifetime.

Click here for an explanation of Lent and Yom Kippur.

If one looks, and not even that closely, there are so very many similarities among the world's religions. Tolerance should teach us to appreciate the similarities and respect the differences among the religions, and to give members of faiths different from our own the dignity that they, too, are acting in good faith - pun intended!

The Cinosam Club

On my way to Job’s Daughters Camp Saturday, I passed the sign shown in the photo on Highway 371 north of Brainerd. I had heard that some Masons had purchased land for summer cottages, and made it available for Masons (and Eastern Star members) for purchase. Thus was the start of the Cinosam Club.

The following is from the Cinosam Club web site. Check out that site for more information.

The Cinosam Club land, though roads were laid out earlier, was formally platted on October 1, 1925, and the tracts were platted on May 28, 1932. Lots on those plats were originally sold only to Masons (hence the name Cinosam - "Masonic" spelled backward) and Eastern Star members in good standing. This began to be relaxed in the 1930s, and is now open to anyone.

In the Club's earlier years, there were two campgrounds for any Mason or Eastern Star who cared to use them. Prospective buyers tried out both campgrounds to get the feel of the area. As one camper put it, "There's a million kinds of bugs here, and they all bite?" The Gull Lake grounds were used only by the most hardy, and not for long. Probably more prospects were driven off than attracted. If the mosquitoes didn't drive them off, the howling of the brush wolves did. The latter were only curious and never troubled anyone.

Several features of the grounds have been obliterated. One was a rifle range; the famed duck pass. Also, the Lily Lake bog paths have rotted into the bogs. The bog was floating, and the trail was a real experience to walk on. One could pick a wild cranberry now and then, observe the muskeg at close range, and generally see a marsh that was unreachable otherwise.

* * * * *

One cannot mention Cinosam without a reference to the website of that name created and managed by Past Grand Master Neil Neddermeyer. It has a wealth of information for Masons and Lodges, as well as some great stories and PowerPoint presentations. Check it out sometime.

Job's Daughters Camp

I have been told by Past Grand Masters that attending Job's Daughters Camp is a highlight of the year. I can now add my verification to their assessment.

I spent the afternoon watching various canoe and kayak races at the waterfront, and then went to the awards banquet. The theme for camp was 70's Disco, and the girls, and several adult leaders) really got into the spirit of the weekend. The banquet had a disco ball and lava lamp, and lots and lots of excitement and fun. I was called upon to say a few words, and then, after the obligatory chant ("Sing us a song, Grand Master, sing us a song...), I relented with a couple verses of "Waltzing with Bears", with help from the girls on the chorus.

The evening ended with "Wishes on the Water", a wonderful candlelight ceremony at the waterfront. A shooting star, just as the last candle was extinguished, put an exclamation mark on the day.

The Grand Lodge of Minnesota was recognized at the banquet for its generous contribution to help keep cost of camp down for the campers. It is a great investment for Minnesota Masonry. Helping these girls become self-confident young women is payback enough, but very many of these Job's Daughters will bring new Mason's into the fraternity.

A true win-win.

Midwest Shrine Association

The Midwest Shrine Association is having its annual summer convention in Rochester this weekend. Osman Temple of St. Paul is the host, and they are doing a great job!

I wasn’t able to attend the Ceremonial Thursday afternoon, but I heard from one of the candidates, Deputy Grand Master John Cook, that it was a great time.

I was able to participate in the parade Thursday evening. Noble Jim Judisch was my chauffer in a very nice convertible. (Unfortunately, about halfway through the route, rain made us put the top back up!) There is a random shot of the enthusiastic crowd watching the parade….

After the parade, the MSA hosted an “Oasis” at the Olmsted County Fairgrounds. Lots of good food and good fellowship was had.

I wish I could have spent more time in Rochester, but I’m scheduled to attend a day of Job’s Daughters’ Camp. I’m looking forward to that, too!

The Masonic Franchise

While visiting St. Paul Lodge No. 3 Tuesday night, I started thinking about the relationship between the Grand Lodge of Minnesota and local lodges. It seems to me that the Grand Lodge is like a franchisor, and the individual lodges, franchisees.

No lodge in this state may open without a charter issued by the Grand Lodge of Minnesota. Certain requirements must be met by the individual lodges to keep their charter. While rare, the Grand Lodge has revoked lodge charters.

As I see it, there are two kinds of franchises: One that pretty much tells the franchisee what to do down to the last (or close to last) menu item. All the franchises look alike. The goal is to give the customer the same experience, no matter which franchise location is entered.

The other kind of franchise is exemplified by the credit card company, VISA, as described in The Dance of Change, by Peter Senge, et al. In the VISA organization, the franchisor laid down some very basic, but very broad rules with which the franchisee must comply. As long as those basic rules are upheld, the franchisee can operate its business in any profitable manner it chooses.

I think Masonry in Minnesota fits more the VISA model than the fast food franchise model. The Grand Lodge of Minnesota has established certain rules that the local lodge must abide by: The Charter must be displayed when lodge is opened. Certain officers in certain stations must be present for lodge to be opened. The ritual approved by the Custodians of the work for the Grand Lodge of Minnesota must be followed. Candidates may be received only upon petition, thorough investigation and unanimous ballot by the members of the lodge.

There are lodges where the members are connected by an affinity outside of the fraternity, such as teachers, firemen, meat cutters. There are lodges that are formed for a special purpose, such as our two newest lodges in Minnesota: Sir Winston Churchill Lodge to learn and emulate the British ritual, and Douglas MacArthur Lodge which has been formed to lend support to members of our Armed Forces and veterans.

Our Code and Bylaws are broad enough to welcome all these lodges and make them available to brothers who are intrigued or interested in them.

A Different Lodge Experience

I had the pleasure of visiting St. Paul Lodge No. 3 last night. It is a unique experience in Minnesota Masonry. The opening and closing ritual is all there, and very familiar. But, I have never been to another communication that included periods of silence and lovely chamber music. I've seen lodge education programs, but at St. Paul No. 3, two of the brothers presented thought-provoking papers.

After the ritual closing, we adjourned to the basement where a wonderful festive board was held. Good conversation and fellowship made for a late, but eminently enjoyable, evening.

And, my string of communications involving balloting on candidates remains intact! St. Paul No. 3 voted to accept two new candidates for degrees last night!

I would encourage all Masons to consider a visit to SP3 for a different lodge experience. Please call ahead so the lodge officers will know you are coming, and can plan for you at the festive board.

Thanks to Sr. Grand Stewart John Gann, Grand Chaplain Steve Johnson and District Representative Todd Henderson for joining me at the meeting last night.

Tolerance Awareness Tuesday - Mark Twain

So much blood has been shed by the Church because of an omission from the Gospel: "Ye shall be indifferent as to what your neighbor's religion is." Not merely tolerant of it, but indifferent to it. Divinity is claimed for many religions; but no religion is great enough or divine enough to add that new law to its code.
- Mark Twain, a Biography http://www.twainquotes.com/Religion.html

No one can claim that Brother Samuel Clemens was indecisive in his choice of words. I am not sure I can agree completely with Brother Clemens’ quote, but it certainly gives something to consider and challenge one’s own opinions on the subject.

While I am comfortable in my faith and beliefs, I am not willing to subject others to my beliefs. They, as I, have the right to make their own decisions in that most important regard. In that regard, my beliefs and Masonry's are entirely consistent.

George W. Lininger

At the Midwest Conference of Grand Lodges, we were treated to a lecture on George W. Lininger, Past Grand Master of Nebraska and overall very interesting man and Mason.

He made a fortune in the farm implement business and then travelled the world bringing artifacts back home to Omaha. Some of the artifacts were on display, and I walked up and looked at what appeared to be a setting maul. I picked it up and confirmed it was that. Later, in the lecture, I learned it was a 3,000 year old setting maul!!!

The lecture was fascinating, and a couple of Nebraska Masons are working on brining this Past Grand Master's most interesting life and times to the public. For some brief information, see George Lininger.

Midwest Conference of Grand Lodges

Deputy Grand Master Cook, Senior Grand Warden Hendrickson and I are attending the Midwest Conference of Grand Lodges in Omaha. There are representatives from the Grand Lodges of Manitoba, Michigan, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Illinois, South Dakota, Kansas, Iowa and Nebraska also present.

Grand Master Russ Reno and the Grand Lodge of Nebraska have put together a great program in a great venue. We have heard Big Ideas from our brother jurisdictions, including programs to prevent suspensions for nonpayment of dues, automated calling systems to keep in touch with our members, membership and increasing per capita dues.

We have also addressed Issues, such as Long-Range Planning, Appendant Bodies, Membershp and Leadership.

As always, a major benefit to attending these conferences is the conversations and tips you pick up from the others in attendance during breaks and meals.

We expect to bring home some new ideas for consideration by Minnesota Masons.

Three Amigos

DGM John Cook, SGW Tom Hendrickson and I left from Winthrop this morning for Omaha Nebraska and the Midwest Conference of Grand Masters. After an obligatory stop at the Ice Cream Capitol of the World (LeMars, Iowa - home of Blue Bunny), we arrived in Omaha and had a very nice dinner and talk by the Grand Master of Wisconsin, Craig Campbell on the Masonic roots of the founding of the United States. Most interesting as well as entertaining.

I talked my colleagues into a walk through The Old Market in Omaha, to the Dubliner, a basement Irish pub, where the following sign was conspicuously posted:

No Shoes,

No Kilt,

No Service.

Only the Irish ....

Up a Flight of Winding Stairs ...

I had the distinct pleasure of escorting two newly-minted Fellowcraft up a flight of winding stairs at Rushford Lodge last night. You may know that the lodge was inundated in the floods of a couple years ago. The brothers buckled down and completely refurbished the lodge, upstairs as well as down, and it looks marvelous!

Imagine my surprise when I walked into the lodge room and had to take the only chair in the room that was open! Over 40 brothers from all across southeast Minnesota were in attendance. Wow! District Representative Paul Himmler likes to brag (with good reason) that the ten lodges in District 29 act like one lodge in supporting each other. We sure saw that last night.

Worshipful Brother Clarence Russell, past District Representative of District 29, showed up from Winona driving a completely refurbished trolley and brought about 10 brothers along. If I am not mistaken, every lodge in District 29 was represented last night. (I noticed a similar sharing of fellowship at the strawberry night at Evergreen Lodge in Clyde a couple months ago.) I have been at several lodges that have shown excitement and commitment to Masonry over the past months, but I don't recall seeing a district, or a group of lodges, that collectively have such communal dedication. Please let me know of others in the state! I'd want to come and congratulate them, too!!

This was probably the longest mid-week travel I've undertaken as Grand Master. However, I met Area Deputy James McNeely and Grand Chaplain Steve Johnson at Owatonna, and we carpooled from there. I had intended on sleeping from Rushford to Owatonna, but the conversation was just too good! I can catch up on sleep tonight, right?

It was a homecoming, literally, for Steve Johnson. He was born within two blocks of the lodge hall and grew up in the area. He pointed to the pictures of the Past Masters on the wall and showed me his great-uncle. And when Worshipful Master Daryl Thompson told Steve, "Welcome home," I could feel the emotion of the moment myself.

This year is just one unforgettable moment after another....

Templar Lodge Visit

Monday night I was the guest for dinner and stated communication at Templar Lodge in St. Louis Park. It was another terrific time with some great men and brothers.

Before dinner, Lodge Education Officer (and Past Grand Master) Jack Benson led a spirited discussion on why Masonry had such a jump in membership after the World Wars, but hasn't seemed to be able to duplicate that after Korea and Viet Nam. MWB Jack leads similar discussions before most communications. He chooses a general topic and the discussion is wide-ranging, often off topic but always enlightening.

Dinner was definitely NOT rubber chicken! Brother Chef Nicco Rocque served steak prepared to perfection, with all the fixin's!

At the communication, a brother was approved for affiliation and a candidate for degrees. I think this must be the fourth or fifth meeting in a row that I have attended that included balloting on candidates. In the summer! Things are cooking in Minnesota Masonry!

Worshipful Master Alan Betker presented me with a commemorative gavel and a coffee mug, the latter of which I will put to good use this morning! W.B. Dean Dorholt, District Representative, recognized Templar Lodge for the Lodge Recognition Program. All in all, it was a memorable evening. Thank you, brothers of Templar Lodge!

Crisis Management

Alan Axelrod has authored a book entitled When the Buck Stops with You: Harry S. Truman on Leadership. In the book, he takes a Truman quote and then writes a few paragraphs on the leadership principle mentioned.

Harry Truman is one of my favorite Presidents, Americans and Masons. He live the Masonic tenets in his entire life, not just in Lodge.

From time to time in this blog, I’ll write one of the quotes and maybe add a few words about applying his thoughts to Masonry in Minnesota.

Most Worshipful Brother Truman wrote to his mother, “Nearly every crisis seems to be the worst one, but after it’s over, it isn’t so bad.”

The Grand Master has to make decisions, often that affect the lives of individual brothers or the future of individual lodges. Some decisions are easy, others tear you up inside.

I have learned that Brother Truman’s thoughts on crises are true. I’ve come up with my “six-week rule” - it’s a big deal for six weeks, then things get back to normal. If a problem lasts more than six weeks, it is a real problem. That doesn’t mean that you can ignore problems and they’ll go away in six weeks. You have to address them. But, you don’t have to drive yourself nuts over them.

And, the knowledge that we’re all working toward a common good for our fraternity and our world, makes it all worth while.

Scholarship Awards

Last evening, Metro East Area Deputy Ken White and I attended the scholarship awards dinner at Garnet Lodge in White Bear Lake. Three scholarships were awarded, including one in honor of Willard McGuire, longtime teacher at North High School, President of the National Education Association and member of Garnet Lodge.

It is such an honor to meet our scholarship winners. These young people are so very talented and dedicated. It is exciting to be a part of sending them off on their educational careers!

The photo shows the scholarship winners along with the officers of Garnet Lodge, Ken White and me.

Worshipful Master Joe Tebbe proudly told me that there are six brothers waiting to take their Fellowcraft Degree, and there are at least three more petitions for degrees pending. Congratulations, Garnet Lodge!

Accacia Lodge Family Picnic

Last night I attended the Accacia Lodge No. 51 family picnic. The weather was just perfect, and I do believe it was the largest crowd I have seen yet at a single-lodge event. What a great time!

Two scholarship winners received their $750 scholarships and door prizes were awarded.

I was very fortunate that my daughter Carrie and her boys, Noah and Blake, could join me for this fun event. My grandsons were very impressed with the lodge room and the history that is there.

Also, I was told that Accacia will soon be presenting the Entered Apprentice degree for three new candidates, one of whom was at the picnic with his family. Nice going!

Who Says You Can't do That???

Last night, I visited the summer communication/table lodge of Minnesota River Valley Lodge No. 6. It was held at Richter Woods, a county park near Montgomery, MN. It was a lovely night, and great fellowship.

About five or six years ago, I visited MRV#6 and overheard a conversation among some brothers that went someting like this: "We should really get a fire engine! Wouldn't that be cool?!? We could put it in parades and get some real excitement generated for Masonry!"

Well, to be honest, I thought it was just another crazy pipe dream from some really cool brothers. I was wrong. The fire engine showed up at the table lodge last night, having participated in its first parade in Shakopee. Excitement and conversation it certainly produced! What a wonderful, crazy idea! (And, for the record, the brothers at MRV#6 are more than happy to make the firetruck available for other lodges in their parades. Just contact the secretary and he'll point you in the right direction.)

The table lodge took some time, as they conducted their regular meeting during it, including on balloting for one brother to affiliate and another candidate for degrees. I had time during the breaks and while we ate to talk with many of the brothers there.

Have you ever been in a room where the energy just crackles? Where one persons excitement and ideas generate more excitement and ideas from the others in the room? That was what I experienced last night. I wish I knew the formula to get that kind of atmosphere in every lodge in the state, because if it were universal, we wouldn't be talking about declining membership and a stagnant fraternity.

Thanks, MRV#6, for another great evening. Congratulations, and keep up the good work!

Tolerance Awareness Tuesday

I attended the Minnesota DeMolay conclave in St. Peter last weekend. I mentioned in my remarks that in DeMolay, as well as in Masonry, one can pick up something new every time he hears the ritual performed. The ritual is NOT just for the candidate - it is for all the sideliners, and for the person delivering the ritual, as well.

For me on Saturday, it was the reminder that Fidelity and Tolerance are prime tenets of the DeMolay. The story of Jacques DeMolay, last Grand Master of the Knights Templar, is a great example of the injustice that can occur when tolerance is lost or forgotten.

Philip the Fair, King of France, imprisoned DeMolay and many Knights Templar in 1307. After seven years of imprisonment and torture, DeMolay retracted a confession that was either forged or obtained through torture. For more information on DeMolay, check out JaquesDeMolay.org.

DeMolay's refusal to name his associates, even upon threat of being burned alive at the stake, is a testament to fidelity and loyalty.

Past Grand Masters, Chapter 2

Today, several Past Grand Masters gathered at the Landmark Center at the Masonic Home for lunch and fellowship. This was another great gathering and memorable event.

The photo show the PGMs and current line officers that were present: Front row, Alyn Dull (1983), Don Severson (1978), Verne Long (1973), Sam Dickinson (1980), Don Sether (1986). Back rows: John Gann (SGS), Chuck Baltos (1991), John Cook (DGM), Gerald Rhoads (2004), Thomas Jackson (2008), Neil Neddermeyer (2003), J.V. Christianson (1997), Roger Taylor (2001), Terry Tilton (2002), Eric Neetenbeek (1996), Tom McCarthy (2009), Steven R. Johnson (2006), Jeffry Lewis (1999), Tom Hendrickson (SGW), Phil Soderberg (2000), Dave Olson (SGD), Bob Darling (JGS), Warren Sonsteby (1989) and Warren Clark (1993). Andy Rice (2005) had to leave before the photo was taken. And Grand Secretary Doug Campbell, who along with DGM Cook, had a major part in making the event happen, was busy taking the photos, so of course, he could not be in one.

It was so very nice seeing the PGMs who hadn't seen each other for years greet one another. And it was so very helpful for me and the current line officers to hear the stories and learn the lessons from the men who helped form this fraternity for the past 40 years.

DeMolay Conclave

I attended the DeMolay conclave this morning at Nicollet Lodge and Gustavus Adolphus College, each in St. Peter. The morning started off with some impressive degree work and ended with six different breakout sessions covering Masonic heritage, DeMolay Jeopardy!, communications skills, etiquette, Robert's Rules of Order and event planning.

I had to admire the fun that the young men (and several Job's Daughters) were having as they were learning this morning. I admire more the men and women who continue to volunteer to keep this great Masonic tradition alive.

I've said that a person learns something new every time he sees the ritual. For me this morning, it was the reference to tolerance, of which I'll have more to say on Tuesday.

Congratulations to the five new DeMolay members who were initiated this morning! For more information on this terrific organization for young men, age 12-21, click here.