Greetings Brethren: We were at a Masonic funeral last week and one of the officers commented to me that we did not know our deceased brother.

It is a mystery to me why so many people (brethren) would pay so much (money) each year to belong to something (lodge) and you may never see them, only at the end of their life?

Brethren, life is short, you’re a Mason, and we will leave the (light of) fellowship on for you!

The Grand Master

Most Worshipful Brother Kevin B.Todd, many of the other Grand Lodge officers and their wives will be in Dayton Saturday, March 17, 2012 to attend the Second District’s Grand Master’s Reception at the Dayton Masonic Center. All Masons are invited and encouraged to attend. See your Worshipful Master for dinner reservations.

Annual Lodge Inspection

Far Hills Lodge will be inspected on Thursday, April 26, 2012 in the Entered Apprentice Degree. You are invited and encouraged to support your officers by attending this inspection.

Dinner will be prepared by the Ladies of Dayton-Victory Chapter, Order of the
Eastern Star. Last year’s meal was great.

Trestleboard

Thursday, March 8th – 7:00 PM Stated Meeting – EA Practice
Saturday, March 17th – 6:30 PM Grand Master’s Reception
Thursday, March 22nd – 7:00 PM Stated Meeting – EA Practice
Thursday, April 12th – 7:00 PM Stated Meeting – EA Practice
Thursday, April 26th – 6:00 PM Dinner; 7:00 PM Annual Inspection- EA Degree

Far Hills Temple Work Schedule

We will be holding a Temple Workday at the Far Hills’ Temple on June 2nd. We will start the day at 8:00 AM with a breakfast from our own Chef Tom Adams. We will be cleaning windows, some light painting, trimming trees and shrubs, and replacing the large taxus’ at the front entrance. At lunch time, Tom will be cooking up some hamburgers and dogs before we leave for the day. So bring your tools, your empty stomachs, open minds and able bodies or not so able bodies to a time of fellowship and work to keeping our property in the great shape it is.

Any questions, contact Carl Eger at (937) 231-7525 cell, or Tom Spettel at (937) 602-4270 cell

Far Hills Temple Association News

Recently the Far Hills Temple Association received a donation from the Daniel K. & Harriet R. Hughes CRUT Trust. Bro. Hughes was a charter member of the George L. Marshall Lodge. Bro. Hughes passed away in 2000 and his wife passed away in July 2011. The wording of the trust stated that the money was to be donated to the George L. Marshall Lodge Building fund (ie. Far Hills Temple Association). The gift we received was over $ 13,000.

Thanks to Bro. Hughes for this great donation. It will help to keep this fine building going for some time.

Meetings

Remember that Far Hills Lodge meets on the Second and Fourth Thursdays of each month except during July, August and holidays.

Lodge or Temple?

Freemasons correctly meet as a Lodge, not in a Lodge, the word “Lodge” referring more to the people assembled than the place of assembly. However, in common usage, Masonic premises are often referred to as “Lodges”. Masonic buildings are also sometimes called “Temples.” In many countries, Masonic Centre or Hall has replaced Temple to avoid arousing prejudice and suspicion. Several different Lodges, as well as other Masonic or non-Masonic organisations, often use the same premises at different times. According to Masonic tradition, medieval European stonemasons would meet, eat, and shelter outside working hours in a Lodge on the southern side of a building site, where the sun warms the stones during the day. The social Festive Board (or Social Board) part of the meeting is thus sometimes called the South. Early Lodges often met in a tavern or any other convenient fixed place with a private room.

Blood Bank Needs Your Donations

Brethren:

Please consider donating blood to the blood bank. Brothers, wives, and/or friends etc may donate with credit going to the Far Hills Lodge No. 784. Our I.D. No. is 1418. Ask for Nancy Blair at the Blood Center if you need help. Remember it’s easy to give this gift to others in need. It’s the “Masonic way.” —

Thanks, Ron Seigla, Blood Bank Chairman

Lodge Education Officer

It is important to remember that the length of a Mason’s cable tow is ultimately set by the individual Mason and cannot be truly judged by any other individual. When three miles may be the proper length of a cable tow for one Mason, another Mason’s cable tow may be hundreds or even thousands of miles in length. Each length is determined by the individual’s moral principles, beliefs and their particular individual circumstances. Ultimately, a Mason will pass judgment on himself based on the aid they have provided to others, but more especially a Brother Mason.

A quote I like that I believe is fitting when looking at your cable tow is: “When looking at the reflection in the mirror, do you like what you see based on what you have done and what you have not done?”

Masonry is a progressive science that helps to take good men and make them better, but it is not the lodge alone that will help to make them better. Each Mason must work toward the goal of making himself better. By remembering our obligations and having a cable tow that is of appropriate length for providing aid and relief, Masons, with the help of the Lodge, will succeed in becoming better men to their families and to their communities.

From the Secretary’s Desk

Please notify me of any changes to your personal data, including your, E-mail and postal address. Contact me using the link for Contacts in the sidebar menu.

On the Lighter Side

A man is walking through the recreation ground of his local park when he notices a huge fight in full fury on the football field he is passing. “What?s going on?” he asks a spectator watching from the side–lines. “The other replies “It?s a match between the Masons and the Knights of Columbus.” “What?s the score?” asks the first man. “I don’t know, it?s a secret.”

From the East.

Summer break is about over and it is time for the craft to resume their labors. Our first meeting will be on September 8, 2011 at our usual opening time of 7:00 p.m. The business of the meeting will mainly be catching up from the summer and any other business that may come up.

Far Hills Lodge had the privilege to bestow many service pins for brethren who have served Masonry for 50, 60 and 65 years. Brother Jack A. Daugherty received his 65 year service pi. Brethren who received 60 year pins were Robert D. Goodwin, Ronal I. Minor, William R. Ringo, Thomas H. Routsong PM, William E. Walser, and Mark J. Wells. Recipients of 50 year pins were Ted D. Flommersfeld, Lee E. Snyder, Donald R. Warner, Ronald H. Wills and Chester A. Roush. Congratulations and well done, brethren.

Also presented were 25, 35, and 40 year service pins to several brethren. More pins will be presented when our stock is replenished.

Temple

There will be a temple work day on September 17, 2011. On the docket are painting the portico, tree pruning, and cleanup of tree branches on the lawn. Before work begins we will be bostering up with a healthy serving of coffee and donuts.

Labor to Rest

John William Paul, age 64: EA 1/14/74; FC 3/4/74; MM 3/23/74 Called to rest 4/29/11

George W. Martin, age 84: EA 6/18/76; FC 1/3/77; MM 5/23/77 Called to rest 6/18/11

Lowell E Blank, PM Rock Moriah Lodge, 1963, age 89; EA 1/15/57, FC 2/19/57; MM 3/25/77. Called to rest May 27/11

Carl J. Larson, PM Rock Moriah Lodge, 1985, age 98; EA 9/26/72; FC 11/7/72; MM 2/13/73; Called to rest 7/18/11

Karl A. Stein II, age 70; EA 6/7/65; FC 10/4/65; MM 11/14/66 Called to rest 8/10/11

Lodge Secretary

Dues notices are coming. Please, as you receive your notice, write the check immediately. If you can, bring it to our next meeting. That will solve two problems: Money and Attendance. We need both to keep our lodge viable and visible.

We would also like to see you. If you have ideas on how to improve our meetings, please pass them on to the WM or the SW.

On The Lighter Side

He was wondering why the Frisbee kept getting bigger. And then, it hit him.

A centipede is an inch worm that has gone metric.

One housewife to another: “What do you use for washing dishes?”
Second: “Oh, I tried many things, but found my husband best.”

Check out these Masonic sites:

www.freemason.com
www.secondmasonicdistrict.org

Welcome, Brethren, to the New Year of 2011. As I return to the East for another term (my fifth), I see that we will have a few busy few months ahead with candidates receiving their degrees, many service pins that need to be presented, our annual inspection on April 14th, in the Master Mason Degree and, working with new additions to the officer line.

At the annual meeting of the Lodge on November 11, 2012, the following members were elected or appointed to the following stations:

• Master: James M. Simko, PM
• Senior Warden: Ned R. Graeter
• Junior Warden: Jack M. Harless, PM
• Treasurer: Thomas L. Rutherford
• Secretary: John A. Weyrauch, PM
• Chaplain: Thomas L. Rutherford
• Senior Deacon: Thomas R. Adams
• Junior Deacon: William D. Riffle
• Tyler: Arthur G. Camp
• Senior Steward: Christopher A. Weaver
• Junior Steward: Kenneth L. Smith
• Marshal: Robert E. Koogler
• Trustee: Thomas R. Spettel, PM

The secretary has mailed out the dues notices for 2011. If you haven’t returned your dues, please do so very soon. Not paying lodge dues can lead to loss of privileges in all affiliated bodies as well as in the Symbolic Lodge. Your dues are vital to the health of our Lodge and the Grand Lodge of Ohio.

In May, we will be presenting many service pins for brethren who have served the lodge for many years. This year, pins will be presented for 25, 35, 40, 50 and 60 years. The pins for 35 and 40 years are newly created by the Grand Lodge. I will be contacting the brethren who are on the list to receive them. If you believe you are entitled to the 25, 50 or 60 year awards but haven’t received them, please contact me or the secretary by phone, e-mail or letter.

This year, Far Hills Lodge will be inspected in the Master Mason Degree in April. All speaking parts must be given by our own lodge members. I will really need your help in this area. The officers will be giving their parts in the first section, but we will need at least eight brethren familiar with speaking parts in the second section.

In Memorium

On a sad note, we announce the death of WB William D. Massie at his home in Avon Park, FL. on Dec. 13, 2010. WB Massie was A Past Master of Geo. L. Marshall Lodge, No. 734, 1972-1973. Past District Deputy Grand Master, 2nd Masonic District and Past Commander in Chief, Dayton Consistory, AASR, Valley of Dayton. A memorial service will be held in his honor in February, 2011.

Also,
William F. Schmidt, Past Marshal, Far Hills Lodge; October 1, 2010.

Holiday of Giving

Far Hills Masonic Center was taken over by the Ladies of Dayton-Victory Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day as they provided food and relaxation for the police, fire and service personnel of Centerville and Washington Twp. who had to work those days. This was their second year to do this and it was greatly appreciated by their guests.

Basic Principles

Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. It requires of its members a belief in God as part of the obligation of every responsible adult, but advocates no sectarian faith or practice. Masonic ceremonies include prayers, both traditional and extempore, to reaffirm each individual’s dependence on God and to seek divine guidance. Freemasonry is open to men of any faith, but religion may not be discussed at Masonic meetings.

The Supreme Being

Masons believe that there is one God and that people employ many different ways to seek, and to express what they know of God. Masonry primarily uses the appellation, “Grand Architect of the Universe,” and other non-sectarian titles, to address the Deity. In this way, persons of different faiths may join together in prayer, concentrating on God, rather than differences among themselves. Masonry believes in religious freedom and that the relationship between the individual and God is personal, private, and sacred.

Volume of the Sacred Law

An open volume of the Sacred Law, “the rule and guide of life,” is an essential part of every Masonic meeting. The Volume of the Sacred Law in the Judeo-Christian tradition is the Bible; to Freemasons of other faiths, it is the book held holy by them.

The Oath of Freemasonry

The obligations taken by Freemasons are sworn on the Volume of the Sacred Law. They are undertakings to follow the principles of Freemasonry and to keep confidential a Freemason’s means of recognition. The much discussed “penalties,” judicial remnants from an earlier era, are symbolic, not literal. They refer only to the pain any honest man should feel at the thought of violating his word.

Freemasonry Compared with Religion

Freemasonry lacks the basic elements of religion: It has no dogma or theology, no wish or means to enforce religious orthodoxy. It offers no sacraments. It does not claim to lead to salvation by works, by secret knowledge, or by any other means. The secrets of Freemasonry are concerned with modes of recognition, not with the means of salvation.

Freemasonry Supports Religion

Freemasonry is far from indifferent toward religion. Without interfering in religious practice, it expects each member to follow his own faith and to place his duty to God above all other duties. Its moral teachings are acceptable to all religions.

To my Masonic Brethren:

Please consider donating blood to the blood bank. Brothers, wives, and/or friends etc can donate and with credit going to the Far Hills Lodge No. 784. Our I.D. No. 1418 . Ask for Nancy Blair at the Blood Center if you need help. Remember it’s easy to give this gift to others in need. It’s the “Masonic way.”

–Thanks, Ron Seigla, Blood Bank Chairman

Please notify the Lodge Secretary of all changes to your personal data including your, E-mail or postal addresses.

Lodge Secretary:

WB John A. Weyrauch, 4700 Briar Knoll Dr. Kettering, OH 45429. 434-5140

jaweyrauch@woh.rr.com

Worshipful Master:

WB James M. Simko, 1316 Southlyn Drive, Kettering, Ohio 45409. 293-8452

Far Hills Temple manager:

WB Thomas A. Spettel, 116 Sherbrooke Dr., Kettering, OH 45429. 294-8647 tspettel@woh.rr.com

Check out these Masonic sites:

www.freemason.com
www.secondmasonicdistrict.org

On The Lighter Side

“People of mediocre ability sometimes achieve outstanding success because they don’t know when to quit. Most men succeed because they are determined to do so.”

- George Allen

Fraternal Greetings from the East.

Greetings Brethren,

Your lodge has been very active for the last fiscal year. WB Jack Harless led us for his second year and special thanks go to the Past Masters who helped keep the lodge alive.

It is time for some changes, as we prepare for a new Masonic year. You are invited to attend the annual meeting on Thursday, November 11th and help elect the new officers to lead us. As usual, there will be refreshments after the meeting.

From the Grand Master

Worshipful Brother, Terry W. Posey complete a very busy and productive year. Check out his blog to see how busy he really was. GMOhio.blogspot.com He did the Second Masonic District proud.

This Date in Masonic History:

On this date (November 1) in 1922, the cornerstone of the George Washington Masonic Memorial in Alexandria, Virginia was laid in a Masonic ceremony.

Trestle Board

November 11  -   7 PM Annual Meeting -  Election of Officers – Reports. Also, Far Hills Temple Association Annual Mtg.

November 25  -   No Meeting. Happy Thanksgiving.

December 8  – 7 PM Stated Meeting -  Installation of Officers.

December 22  – No Meetings until January 2011

January 13  -  7 PM Stated Meeting.  Business

January 27  – 7 PM Stated Meeting – Possible EA Degree

Remember that Far Hills Lodge meets on the Second and Fourth Thursdays of each month except during July and August

Far Hills Temple Association

Thank you to Tom Spettel, Carl Eger and Dick Crandall for repainting the front porch pillars on the building. It was not an easy job. Come to Lodge November 11 to hear their report. They do a great job taking care of the facilities.

Freemasons correctly meet as a Lodge, not in a Lodge. The word “Lodge” referring more to the people assembled than the place of assembly. However, in common usage, Masonic premises are often referred to as “Lodges”. Masonic buildings are also sometimes called “Temples”. In many countries, Masonic Centre or Hall has replaced Temple to avoid arousing prejudice and suspicion. Several different Lodges, as well as other Masonic or non-Masonic organisations, often use the same premises at different times. According to Masonic tradition, medieval European stonemasons would meet, eat, and shelter outside working hours in a Lodge on the southern side of a building site, where the sun warms the stones during the day. The social Festive Board (or Social Board) part of the meeting is thus sometimes called the South. Early Lodges often met in a tavern or any other convenient fixed place with a private room.

Blood Bank Information

Please consider donating blood to the blood bank. Brothers, wives, and/or friends, etc. may donate with credit going to Far Hills Lodge #784. Our ID number is 1418. Ask for Nancy Blair at the Blood Center if you need help.

Remember it’s easy to give this gift to others in need. It’s the “Masonic way.”

Thanks,
Ron Seigla, Blood Bank Chairman

From the LEO

Several years ago, the story is told of a Mason who always wore his Masonic ring and lapel pin when in public. On some occasions he rode the bus from his home to the downtown area. On one such trip, when he sat down, he discovered the driver had accidentally given him a quarter too much change.

As he considered what to do he thought to himself, “You’d better give the quarter back. It would be wrong to keep it.” Then he thought, “Oh, forget it; it’s only a quarter. Who would worry about this little amount?” “Anyway, the transit company gets too much fare; they will never miss it. Accept it as a ‘gift from God’ and keep quiet.”

When his stop came, he paused momentarily at the door, then handed the quarter to the driver and said, “here, you gave me too much change.”

The driver with a smile replied, “I noticed your Masonic ring and lapel pin. I have been thinking lately about asking a Mason how to join. I just wanted to see what you would do if I gave you too much change. You passed the test. Can you tell me how to become a Mason?”

When the Mason stepped off the buss, he said a silent prayer, “Oh, God, Grand Architect of the Universe, I almost sold you and my beloved Mason out for a mere quarter.”

Our actions are the only Masonic creed some will ever see. This is an almost scary example of how people watch us as Masons and may put us to the test even without us realizing it! Always be diligent, whether it be at the theater, restaurant, grocery, service station or just driving in traffic. Remember, whether it be a lapel pin, a ring, or an emblem on the car, you carry the name of our great fraternity on your shoulders whenever you call yourself a Mason. You never can tell who may be watching!

From the Secretary’s Desk

Please notify me of any changes to your personal data, including your email and postal address.

Remember that your dues are due NOW and are very much needed. Please send them back ASAP. Thank you if you have already done so.

Check out these sites:

• www.farhillsmasons.org
• www.freemason.com
• www.secondmasonicdistrict.org

Important Notice

Please note that all correspondence to the lodge should be sent to our secretary’s home address:

John A. Weyrauch, 4700 Briar Knoll Dr. Kettering, OH 45429
937-434-5140  jaweyrauch@woh.rr.com

If the correspondence is meant for the Master, it should be sent to:

Jack Harless, 7185 Bigger Lane., Centerville, OH 45459.
937-681-0512   jackharlessdc@yahoo.com

Far Hills Temple Manager:
WB Thomas A. Spettel, 116 Sherbrooke Dr. Kettering OH 45429
937-294-8647 tspettel@woh.rr.com

Mail sent to the temple address will be returned to the sender by the post office. We do not have provisions to receive mail at the temple.

From the Lighter Side

A man is walking through the recreation ground of his local park when he notices a huge fight in full fury on the football field he is passing. “What’s going on?” he asks a spectator watching from the side-lines. The other replies, “It’s a match between the Masons and the Knights of Columbus.” “What’s the score?” asks the man. “I don’t know,” is the reply, “it’s a secret.”

A Doctor and a Plumber are in the same Lodge. On Sunday morning the Doctor wakes up to find his toilet blocked. So he rings the Plumber. “But I don’t work Sundays! Can’t it wait until tomorrow?” The doctor said, “I don’t like working Sundays either, but if you were in trouble, and felt unwell, Brother I would come around to see you.”

“OK.” says the Plumber. He goes to the Doctor. He goes upstairs and looks at the toilet, takes two aspirins from his pocket and throws them down the bowl. “There,” he says. “If it’s no better tomorrow give me a ring and I will call around.”

Fraternal Greetings from the East.

Greetings Brethren,

Happy New Year!  I hope and trust that is all is well.  I want to start the new year out by asking our members to remember and reflect on what it is about the Craft that they love.   We are at an interesting point in our history, not only nationally, but at the Blue Lodge level as well.  We have to identify what it is that our members want, and what they would like to see this Fraternity become in the future.

“The times they are a changin’” and so is the Craft.  If we are to change and make progress we have to know what direction to take.  We are looking for your input, so drop me a line or better yet come to lodge and talk to me about it.  As the saying goes, “if you’re not changing and progressing, you’re already behind.”  I would say we have a good deal of catching up to do.  We need your help Brethren!

From the Grand Master

This year our Most Worshipful Brother, Terry W. Posey has placed an emphasis on our men and women in uniform with his slogan “It’s all in the Family”.  In an effort to reach out to those men in the military, EMTs and firemen, MWB Posey has allowed for each Lodge to confer all three degrees for the lowest possible cost of $40.00.  If you know of a good man who is in uniform this would be a great time to talk to him about the Craft.

This Date in Masonic History:

Jan 2. 1901:   On this date in 1901, U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt received his 1st degree in Matinecock Lodge #806, Oyster Bay, New York.

Trestle Board

January 14th -   7 PM Stated Meeting -  EA Degree – MM Exam

January 28th -   7 PM State Meeting -    FC practice.

February 11th – 7 PM Stated Meeting -  FC Degree.

February 25th – 7 PM Stated Meeting – Annual Inspection – FC Degree

March 11th -     7 PM Stated Meeting.  Business

March 25th -     7 PM Stated Meeting – Business

Remember that Far Hills Lodge meets on the Second and Fourth Thursdays of each month except during July and August

Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety.”

- Benjamin Franklin

More from the East

Not since 1975 have five Past Grand Masters and the new Grand Master received Grand Honors in Far Hills Temple. Back then, MWB Calvin T. Hubler had been elected Grand Master and George L. Marshall Lodge became the first subordinate lodge to give him Grand Honors. The five past Grand Masters were Charles B. Hoffman, L. Todd McKinney, Frank W. Nicholas, Ralph M. Francisco and Louis C. Holzapfel.

On Thursday, October 22, 2009, Far Hills Lodge became the first subordinate lodge to extend Grand Honors to Most Worshipful Brother Terry W. Posey as the newest Grand Master of Masons of Ohio. In attendance with him were five Past Grand Masters. MWB Neil M. Smalley, David L. Dresser, Douglas O. Brennaman, William P. Mayberry, Sr. and James M. Williamson.

This time however the subject was the Master Mason Degree. MWB Dresser wanted to raise his two grandsons and as he was short on time before he had to return to his home in Florida, he received permission from the Grand Master to raise the two Fellowcraft Masons simultaneously. Two sets of ruffians, two Senior Deacons were the only changes. Each grandson was raised individually.

The grandsons were examined in each degree the traditional way, the long way. Both were eager to learn more about masonry and had decided not to go through the one-day class.

Any one-day class member who would like to experience the one-on-one feeling may make his wishes known to one of the officers and we will fit you into the schedule; which- ever degree you would like to experience.

It has been difficult to get brethren interested in becoming line officers. Being a lodge officer  is not an impossible task and can be very rewarding. Some time and commitment is required. Let one of the officers know if you are interested. It is not fair to ask the Past Masters to have all the fun.

2010 Lodge Officers Elected and Installed:

• WB Jack Harless – Worshipful Master
• WB Dan Springston – Senior Warden
• Bro Dave Brewer – Junior Warden
• WB Jim Simko – Treasurer
• WB John Weyrauch – Secretary
• Bro Tom Rutherford – Chaplain
• Bro Kevin Howard – Senior Deacon
• Bro Tom Adams – Junior Deacon
• WB Bill Irwin – LEO
• Bro Bill Riffle – Senior Steward
• Bro Bob Tomlinson – Junior Steward
• Bro Art Camp – Tyler
• WB Lloyd Nickel – Marshal
• WB Dale Evans – Trustee

Be proud of being a member of the oldest fraternal organization in the world. Support your blue lodges as well as the Scottish Rite. York Rite and the Shrine.

We’re like the marines. We are looking for a few good men!

Christmas Holiday Event Successful

Congratulations are in order as Far Hills Temple was the scene of a great event on Christmas Eve  beginning at 5:30 PM and running through 6:00 PM Christmas Day.

The event was planned and executed by the members of Dayton-Victory Chapter No. 594, Order of the Eastern Star (Judy Mack, Worthy Matron) provided food to all emergency personnel of Centerville and Washington Twp.

The event started slowly, but as the word spread, the number of patrons increased and the food was kept fresh and hot throughout the day. The OES Chapter has already planned to do this again next year. Thanks from the members of FHL for bringing attention to the FHT.

Blood Bank Information

Anyone who donates blood to the blood bank, i.e., brothers, wives, and/or friends can donate and credit it to the Far Hills Lodge No. 784.   We now have an I.D. number, which is 1418. If you don’t remember that number, ask for Nancy Blair at the Blood Center for help.

Remember it’s easy to give this gift to others in need. It’s the “Masonic way.”

Thanks,
Ron Seigla, Blood Bank Chairman

From the Secretary’s Desk

We are looking forward to reducing our suspensions for non-payment of dues.  If you’re having difficulty paying your dues, please let us know and we can help you out.  Contact the Secretary or Worshipful Master in whatever way is most convenient for you.

Check out these sites:

• www.farhillsmasons.org
• www.freemason.com
• www.secondmasonicdistrict.org

Important Notice

Please note that all correspondence to the lodge should be sent to our secretary’s home address:

John A. Weyrauch, 4700 Briar Knoll Dr. Kettering, OH 45429
937-434-5140  jaweyrauch@woh.rr.com

If the correspondence is meant for the Master, it should be sent to:

Jack Harless, 7185 Bigger Lane., Centerville, OH 45459.
937-681-0512   jackharlessdc@yahoo.com

Mail sent to the temple address will be returned to the sender by the post office. We do not have provisions to receive mail at the temple.

Fraternal greetings from the East

Greetings Brethren! I would like to take a brief moment to introduce myself as many of you I know and some I haven’t as yet had the opportunity to meet. My name is Jack Harless and the Brethren of Far Hills Lodge have graciously elected me as Master for the coming year at our annual election on November 13. For the coming year I would like to institute a Masonic theme that will hopefully represent the “spirit” of Far Hills Lodge. That theme is “Looking Back to Move Forward”. This year I would like to place a strong emphasis on our storied past and use that as a foundation to move Far Hills Lodge specifically, and Masonry in general into the 21st century.

Many are familiar with the beautiful wisdom-teaching attributed to David that says; “There is nothing new under the sun.” We will be trying some new things this year, but they will all have a solid foundation on the tried and true Masonic principles that have led and sustained us over the centuries.

Our Lodge has a great mix of people and talent, and we are seeing a renewed interest in Masonry from the younger generation; so come to Lodge and see Masonry in action! We are still looking to fill a few officer positions, so please contact me if you would like to actively participate in really bringing your Masonry to life!

Again, thanks to all the Brethren of Far Hills Lodge and I look forward to working with and serving this great Lodge in the coming year.

From the Secretary’s Desk

WB John Weyrauch has been sending out the dues notices for next year. Please return them with your check as soon as possible. Remember that being suspended for non-payment of dues can adversely affect all your other Masonic affiliations.

Remember to contribute to our other charities listed on the dues notice. Be sure to add your e-mail address for our records.

I-Care Program

The Grand Lodge and the Ohio Masonic Home have been working on an I-Care Program, which is designed to offer aid and assistance to our elder members and their families; as the aging process works its magic on each of us. There are some in-depth programs, people assigned and trained to work them, and a large array of possibilities for those who require the assistance. What they do not have is the referrals from Lodges of those who could or should be receiving these services, but are unaware of their existence.

A survey will be sent requesting info on our members who may need medical or welfare assistance. Lodge volunteers, trained to ask the right questions, will then make contact with these brothers and/or their family members to find out what assistance is needed and what assistance may be available.

~ Trestleboard ~

Dec. 11 ~ 7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting Open Installation of Officers
Dec. 25 ~ Meeting Cancelled ~ Christmas Day
Jan. 8, 2009 ~ 7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting ~ Table Lodge
Jan. 22, 2009 ~ 7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting

This Month in Masonic History

On Dec. 5 1730, Benjamin Franklin’s Pennsylvania Gazette included news about several Lodges of Free-Masons meeting in that “province.” Franklin was not yet a Freemason when his newspaper printed this item.

Important Notice

Please note that all correspondence to the lodge should be sent to our Secretary’s home address:

John A. Weyrauch • 4700 Briar Knoll Drive • Kettering, OH 45429
(937) 434-5140 • jaweyrauch [at] woh.rr.com

If the correspondence is meant for the Master, it should be sent to:

Jack M. Harless • 7185 Bigger Lane • Centerville, OH 45459
(937) 433-7328 •jtoren19 [at] yahoo.com or jack [at] drholten.com

Mail sent to the temple address will be returned to the sender by the post office.  We do not have provisions to receive mail at the temple.

Come Back to Lodge

Can you say “I sat in Lodge with you”?

Brethren, as we begin a new lodge year on November 1st, our annual meeting will be held on November 13, 2008. The main topic for this meeting will be the election of officers who will rule and govern the lodge for the upcoming year. This meeting should be considered as the most important meeting held in a lodge. Your attendance is earnestly solicited.

On a sad note, we announce the death of our Junior Steward, Bro. Alan D. Crandall. He was only 46 at the time of his departure. His loss was totally unexpected. Alan is the son of our chaplain, Bro. Richard Crandall. He was a loyal and faithful servant to his God and to the lodge. A Masonic memorial service was held for Alan on October 22, 2008. He rests from his labors.

Just back from the 199th Grand Lodge Convocation in Columbus. The GL, because of the economical mess, withdrew their proposed increase of the per capita rate.

Our new Grand Master is Most WB Charles R. Murphy from the Toledo area. RWB Terry W. Posey is the new Deputy Grand Master and is next in line to be Grand Master. He is a local boy.

On November 1, 2009 there will be one more work day at the temple to finish the painting in the basement. This will be a BYOB (BRUSH) and rollers party. Bro. Tom Adams has offered to fix breakfast. It sounds like an offer that you can’t refuse. Time is 8:30 AM.

From the Secretary

Dues notices will be mailed later in October and the checks received will be deposited after 11/01/08 to keep the records straight.

The Grand Lodge and the Ohio Masonic Home have been working on an I-Care Program, which is designed to offer aid and assistance to our elder members and their families; as the aging process works its magic on each of us. There are some in-depth programs, people assigned and trained to work them, and a large array of possibilities for those who require the assistance. What they do not have is the referrals from Lodges of those who could or should be receiving these services, but are unaware of their existence.

A survey will be sent requesting info on our members who may need medical or welfare assistance. Lodge volunteers, trained to ask the right questions, will then make contact with these brothers and/or their family members to find out what assistance is needed and what assistance may be available.

Too many times I have received a notice that a brother has passed away in response to a request for dues payment. The Brother had passed on, and no one thought to notify the Lodge.

~ Trestleboard ~

Nov. 1 ~ 8:30 AM ~ Breakfast ~ BYOB (Brush)
Nov. 13 ~ 7:00 PM ~ Annual Meeting and Election of Officers
Nov. 27 ~ Meeting Cancelled ~ Thanksgiving Day
Dec. 11 ~ 7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting ~ Business
Dec. 25 ~ Meeting Cancelled ~ Christmas Day
Jan. 8, 2009 ~ 7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting

From Labor to Rest

Walter Edward Mueller

DOB 05/27/1935
EA 04/02/1973
FC 06/04/1973
MM 09/17/1973
Died 08/15/2008

Leon Laswell Chasteen

DOB 09/09/1926
EA 12/05/1947
FC 01/17/1948
MM 02/27/1948
Died 09/19/2008

Alan Douglas Crandall

DOB 04/03/1963
EA 13/15/2003
FC 03/15/2003
MM 03/15/2003
Died 10/03/2008

Frederic Herman Haenzi

50 YEAR MEMBER
DOB 04/16/1916
EA 07/16/1939
FC 08/22/1939
MM 10/13/1939
Died 10/13/2008

From the Lodge Education Officer

18 MASONIC PRINCIPLES IN MODERN ENGLISH

01. Serve God, as you understand Him to Be.
02. Expect good things in life, and live like you do.
03. Be generous to people in need.
04. Keep your promises.
05. Be industrious and improve your mind.
06. Remember that there is a life to come; and act with this in mind.
07. Take care of your family.
08. Be tolerant of the honest opinions of others.
09. Keep yourself morally clean.
10. Help your Brother Masons.
11. Learn the ritual work and be active in Lodge.
12. Protect your own physical and mental health.
13. Be strong in the face of adversity.
14. Make your decisions in a calm frame of mind.
15. Always treat other people fairly.
16. Be proud to be a Mason, but modest in expressingt.
17. Watch for good men seeking what Masonry offers and assist them within our rules.
18. Be happy and enjoy life.

On the Lighter Side

See No Evil
A man robbed a bank and told all the customers to line up against the wall. He walked up to the first
customer and asked, “Did you see anything?” The man said yes and the robber shot him. He went to the second customer and said, “Did you see anything?’. The customer said yes and the robber shot him, too.

He asked the third customer, “Did you see anything?” The man said, “No, but my wife saw it all!”

Important Notice

Please note that all correspondence to the lodge should be sent to our Secretary’s home address:
John A. Weyrauch • 4700 Briar Knoll Drive • Kettering, OH 45429
(937) 434-5140 • jaweyrauch [at] woh.rr {dot} com

If the correspondence is meant for the Master, it should be sent to:
James M. Simko • 1316 Southlyn Drive • Kettering, OH 45409
(937) 293-8452 •jsimko.pwm [at] usa {dot} net (note the dot between the o and the p)

Mail sent to the temple address will be returned to the sender by the post office.
We do not have provisions to receive mail at the temple.

Sunday, August 10, 2008 ~ 3:00 PM Family Picnic at Twin Oaks Shelter at Hills & Dales Park ~ See info below
Sept. 11 ~ 7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting
Sept. 25 ~ 7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting and Fellow Craft Degree
Oct. 04 ~ 8:00 AM ~ Special District Officer’s Meeting, Middletown
Oct. 09 ~ 7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting and Lantern Reception
Oct. 17 and 18 ~ Grand Lodge in Columbus.
Oct. 23 ~ 7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting

Fraternal greetings from the East

Summer is half over and it will soon be time to resume our labors. On June 26, we initiated two brethren into Masonry. On September 25, we will advance them to the degree of Fellow Craft.

On Sunday August 10, 2008, you are invited to a Family Picnic at Twin Oaks Shelter in the Hills and Dales Metro Park in Kettering. Gathering time will be 3 PM; sooner if no one is using the shelter ahead of us. The lodge will provide the hamburgers and the hot dogs. If you want something special to cook on the grill, feel free to bring it along.

Please bring a dish to share. Also bring your own chairs and your favorite drink, if you don’t care for lemonade; (no alcohol – lodge function and park rules). Twin Oaks Shelter is on Patterson Blvd, near the Patterson Monument on the north side of Community Gulf Course. Best access to the site is off West Dorothy Lane to Patterson Blvd.

District Officers

A special meeting of the District Officer’s Association will be held in the Middletown Masonic Center on October 4, 2008. The District Deputies will be presenting all three degrees with the accompanying lectures. This is a rare learning opportunity to improve on ritual proficiency. Too many words in the ritual are being misinterpreted, so this would be the ideal time to learn the proper wordage. This will be an all-day event, with lunch provided. Bring your rituals and read along with the demonstrations and take notes if needed. I have never seen such an event before.

Commemorative Lamp for 200 Years

On October 9, 2008, Far Hills Lodge will be the final recipient of the Second Masonic District’s version of the Grand Lodge’s Commemorative Lamp honoring 200 years of Masonry in Ohio. We won’t get to keep it, though. It will be returned to Grand Lodge on October 17, 2008 by the lodge delegation.

Condolences

Our condolences to WB Thomas H. Routsong (PM 1967) and Bro. Thomas A. Routsong, on the loss of wife and mother Marti who passed away on July 12, 2008. Marti was Past Worthy Matron of Far Hills Chapter OES and Past Grand Marshal of the Grand Chapter OES in 1984.

Birth Announcement

Congratulations to Senior Warden Jack Harless on the birth of his daughter Emla on May 22, 2008. Mother and daughter are doing fine and Jack will have to work 20 more years.

Well Wishes

Bro. Carl Eger, President of the Far Hills Temple Association Board of Trustees, is recovering from shoulder surgery.

Farewells

Having bid farewell to Bro. and Major Michael Perry, our Senior Warden, who has been transferred by the Air Force to Texas; we have an opening in the officer line. This is a good place for a member who might have considered becoming an officer, to get a good start for personal development in public speaking and being at ease when talking in front of a crowd, as well as allowing a brother to become more familiar with the workings of the lodge and Masonry in general. The office of Senior Steward may be a beginning position but it is not unimportant. Have you ever seen a degree presented without the stewards?

Correction

A couple of issues back, I quoted some “Murphy’s Laws.” I have since found out that these laws were not written by Murphy, but by some other guy with the same last name. Besides, Murphy was an eternal optimist. Thought you would like to know.

Temple Board

The temple board is making some upgrades in the kitchen: new range, countertop replacement, sink repairs. The cost won’t be too much, but the board could use some financial assistance. It has been requested that the membership (who are the actual owners of the temple) make
some contributions to the “Kitchen Fund”.

It won’t take a large donation by each of the brethren, but any donations would be greatly appreciated.

Final Note

I shall pass this way but once. Therefore, any good that I can do or any kindness that I can show, let me do it now, for I shall not pass this way again.”

Special Lodge Supporters

Brethren add your name to the list.

These Brethren donated Ten Dollars or more in extra support to our lodge and we thank them. Their names will appear in the newsletter until January, 2008. Won’t you be a supporter and send a donation to WB John Weyrauch at the above address.
Carl J. Bruckner
Paul H. Bushong
Richard L. Coy
Fount Deaton
Guy C. Douglas
Jack D. Dowler
George A. Fisher Jr.
Howard A. Fricke
Brian R. Hawkins
Jimmy Hoover
Lloyd O. Nickell
Richard W. Poore
Charles W. Ridgeway, Jr.
John W. Shimer
James M. Simko
Mark F. Stachler
Charles W. Topper
Daniel W. Wertz
John A. Weyrauch
James T. Young

Important Notice

Please note that all correspondence to the lodge should be sent to our Secretary’s home address:
John A. Weyrauch • 4700 Briar Knoll Drive • Kettering, OH 45429
(937) 434-5140 • jaweyrauch /at/ woh[dot]rr[dot]com (insert appropriate symbols when emailing)
If the correspondence is meant for the Master, it should be sent to:
James M. Simko • 1316 Southlyn Drive • Kettering, OH 45409
(937) 293-8452 •jsimko.pwm /at/ usa[dot]net (note the dot between the o and the p)

Mail sent to the temple address will be returned to the sender by the post office.
We do not have provisions to receive mail at the temple.

The annual meeting of Far Hills Lodge No. 784, F&AM was held on November 7, 2007. At this meeting the officers were elected who will govern the lodge for the upcoming year. These Brethren will be installed at the stated meeting of the lodge on December 13, 2007.

Congratulations to our two newest Master Masons: Bro. Brian Bailey and Bro. Joe Rakoczy. Welcome aboard brethren.

Our inspection this year will be on April 1, 2008 in the Master Mason Degree. We will be needing your help to display the work since most of it will have to be performed by lodge members. If you are familiar with the speaking parts, let me know so that a craft can be assembled.

Special Announcements

Congratulations to W.B. Bobby Gene Campbell, PM and KYCH on his election and installation as Most Illustrious Grand Master, Royal and Select Masons of Ohio. WB Campbell was Worshipful Master of Rock Moriah Lodge No. 740 in 1990. Among his many affiliations, he was Excellent High Priest of Friendship Chapter No. 245, R.A.M; Illustrious Master of Adoniram Council No. 131, Royal and Select Masons, Eminent Commander of Valley Commandery No. 80, Knights Templar; Past Patron of Jacob Eby Chapter, Order of Eastern Star; member of The Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Valley of Dayton and many other affiliations. His travels this year will be many and long. WB Campbell has been married almost forty years to the former Cathy Fuller. He has two daughters: Kimberly J. Campbell and Steffany R. Campbell. We wish him well in the coming year.

Congratulations to W.B. Rodger L. Southworth, PM on his election as a Knight of the York Cross of Honor, Ohio Priory No. 18. WB Rodger was Worshipful Master of Rock Moriah Lodge in 1996, 1998, 1999 and 2000. Among his many affiliations, he was High Priest, Friendship Chapter No. 245, RAM, 2003, 2008; Illustrious Master, Adoniram Council No. 131, 2005; Emminent Commander, Valley Commandery No. 80, 2006; and Apollo Dramatic Chapter Tabernacle No. 2, June 4, 2004.

We have survived the onslaught of Halloween and the holiday celebrating Thanksgiving. Now we enter the season celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. We should remember our less fortunate brethren and the hungry.

After that, we will enter the New Year. A holiday of parties, noise makers and firecrackers and a time of football games to fill a second full season. Please be careful driving at this time of the year and we hope to see all of you in your lodge during 2008.

We will, again, be purchasing boxes of candy and flowers for our widows. Volunteers are needed to assist in the distribution.

One unhappy note is the passing of Yvonne Isaacs. She is the wife of our former secretary, George Isaacs. She was a classy lady and we send our best wishes to the family.

Blood Bank

Blood donations to the Blood Bank. Maybe our members don’t realize we do have a blood bank account set up at the blood center. Just need to tell them it’s for the Far Hills Masonic Lodge #784, and we will get credit for each pint of blood donated.
– Thanks, Ron Seigla

From the Secretary’s Desk

I have been collecting dues monies and sending out the dues cards for the next year. If you haven’t paid yours yet, I urge you to exercise your most important Masonic duty, that of paying your dues. Remember that you must be in “good standing” with your Blue Lodge, to be a member in “good standing” of the other Masonic bodies, including the Shrine

Lodge Education Officer

Did U Know?

The Georgian Lodge No. 11, Paris, France (under the jurisdiction of the Grande Lodge Nationale Française or GLNF) celebrated the 85th Anniversary of the consecration of the Lodge in 2006.

Under the by-laws of Lodge, only one candidate can receive a degree at any one time. Therefore, there is never a situation where more than one candidate is initiated, passed or raised on a particular night. The idea behind this is that the candidate in question receives 100% of the attention of the Brethren for the evening, and that the ceremony that he participates in is dedicated to him and him alone.

The Georgian Lodge No. 11 is one of the oldest Lodges in the GLNF, and was consecrated when their mother Lodge, St. George’s No. 3 reached its constitutionally and by-laws mandated maximum of 50 members, and therefore had to “spin-off” a daughter Lodge. The Lodge was consecrated on March 12, 1921. The Georgian Lodge No. 11 is an English-Speaking Lodge that works the ritual most commonly employed by Lodges in the United Grand Lodge of England, namely, the Emulation Ritual. This ritual is very “strict” in its working of the ceremony, in that it is not theatrical. It ultimately relies on the use of language and the employment of the allegorical nature of our Order to transmit Masonic Light to the candidates.

Special Lodge Supporters

Brethren add your name to the list. These Brethren donated Ten Dollars or more in extra support to our lodge and we thank them. Please see the complete list by clicking on the page link “Special Lodge Supporters” in the right hand column of this site.

Important Notice

Please note that all correspondence to the lodge should be sent to our Secretary’s home address:
John A. Weyrauch • 4700 Briar Knoll Drive • Kettering, OH 45429
(937) 434-5140 • jaweyrauch [at] woh [dot] rr [dot] com (please fill in the appropriate symbols in your email address. This email was presented in this fashion to avoid “spam” software from picking it up on this web site.)

If the correspondence is meant for the Master, it should be sent to:
James M. Simko • 1316 Southlyn Drive • Kettering, OH 45409
(937) 293-8452 •jsimko.pwm [at] usa [dot] net (note the dot between the o and the p)

Mail sent to the temple address will be returned to the sender by the post office. We do not have provisions to receive mail at the temple.
The Lodge website is: www.farhillsmasons.org • The Grand Lodge website is: www.freemason.com

Officers Elected and Appointed for 2008

James M. Simko
PM Worshipful Master

Jack M. Harless
Senior Warden

David L. Brewer
Junior Warden

Thomas R. Spettel
PM Treasurer

John A. Weyrauch
PM Secretary

Thomas R. Adams
Senior Deacon

Ned R. Graeter
Junior Deacon

Arthur G. Camp
Tyler

Richard D. Crandall
Chaplain

Michael Perry
Senior Steward

Alan D. Crandall
Junior Steward

William F. Schmidt
Marshal

Lloyd O. Nickell
PM Lodge Trustee

~ Trestleboard ~

See the sidebar for most Trestleboard entries

December 13, 2007
7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting
Business & Installation of Officers (Suits)

December 27, 2007
No Meeting
Merry Christmas

January 10, 2008
7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting

January 24, 2008
7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting

MORE OF Murphy’s Lesser-Known Laws

• The 50-50-90 rule: Anytime you have a 50-50 chance of getting something right, there’s a 90% probability you’ll get it wrong.
• Things that come to those who wait will be the things left by those who got there first.

Murphy’s Lesser-Known Laws

• When you go into court, you are putting yourself in the hands of 12 people who weren’t smart enough to get out of jury duty.
• Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day.
  Teach a man to fish and he’ll sit in a boat all day, drinking beer.
• Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.
• He who laughs last, thinks slowest.
• Those who live by the sword get shot by those who don’t.
• Nothing is foolproof to a sufficiently talented fool.

From the last newsletter, you know that we are having trouble filling the chairs. We did have one brother who has volunteered to help out and become an officer. It really troubles me to see our lodge having these problems. Without your help brethren I don’t see a very bright future for our lodge.

We are trying to put on a Master Mason degree on October 11th and October 25th. One of our officers has been making phone calls trying to get craftsman for these dates; at the writing of this newsletter we are still short of volunteers. We have two fine Fellowcraft candidates who are eager to become Master Masons. These two brethren deserve the same respect and degree work as when you and I were raised.

Won’t you please come out and help our lodge survive. Without YOUR help we cannot. Don’t hesitate to call me if you can step up and become an officer; or just come out to support the lodge from the side lines. Thanks to those of you who have helped and are continuing to help keep the lodge going.

News from The Temple Board
Brethren, we, too, own a television set, but that does not keep me at home on lodge night. I have never yet had one of the characters on television come off the screen and shake my hand. They have never offered me the warm friendship that my lodge brothers do. They have never handed me a cup of coffee or a doughnut. No! Never!

Lodge Secretary
If a Secretary writes a letter, it’s too long. If he sends a postal, it’s too short. If he doesn’t send a notice, he is lazy. If he attends a committee meeting, he is butting in. If he stays away, he is a shirker. If he duns the members for dues, he is insulting. If he fails to collect the dues, he is slipping. If he asks for advice, he is incompetent. If he does not, he is bull-headed. If he writes his reports complete, they are too long. If he condenses them, they are incomplete. If he talks on a subject in Lodge, he is trying to run things. If he remains quiet, he has lost interest in the meeting. Ashes to Ashes and Dust to Dust; If others won’t do it…The Secretary must!!!!!

Lodge Education Officer
The following is taken from the charge of Ill. Bro. Verdon Skipper to the 33rd Degree Class at the recent Supreme Council Ceremony in DC.

Within the modern day Masonic lingo, we repeatedly hear the terms “call to action”, “membership retention”, “long range goals” and “strategic planning.” Are any of us listening to those words or are we assuming they are for some other Mason to hear? Have we forgotten that our beloved fraternity begins with the contributions and service of the individual man and ends with the achievements and pride of a united brotherhood?

One of our preoccupations in Masonic circles these days is the question of direction or vision for our fraternity and Scottish Rite. Where do you imagine we will be just ten years from now? (Some might wonder if we indeed will even exist).

We hear so often in our ritual that “the time is always now”. We must look carefully at the present state of affairs because it offers us the challenge and opportunity to prepare for our future. The future really is ours to shape. What are we doing about it?
Our Craft is set in ancient traditions carried over to a world that is growing in population, crisis and knowledge. Change is happening so fast that we often find ourselves totally confused by all of the input. My brain is full, how much more information can it process? And yet we live in the “Age of Information” where new knowledge grows exponentially on a daily, and sometimes a minute to minute basis. We have no other option than to adapt to our ever changing world or be left behind.

We must, of necessity, ask ourselves another question, “For whom does our fraternity exist? Its leaders, or its members”? When we look only at ourselves, at our own Masonic accomplishments, we are guilty of limiting our function in the fraternity. If we are unable or unwilling to focus beyond the vain service of self, then we are condemning ourselves to irrelevancy and possibly extinction.

At the feast of the ego, everyone leaves hungry. Resistance to societal realities is tantamount to walling ourselves up behind the tiled doors of a private club, elite, dusty and useless relics of things past, and an organization for study only by future social historians.

Our vision of the future should be two-fold. Working on our vision to preserve our Rite, we should be concerned with the direction in which the whole fraternity is going. As the eminent English author, poet and priest, John Donne reminds us, we are all a part “of the main…because I am involved in mankind.” We are a part of the substantial whole in this world wide fraternity of ours; we cannot be anything but a caring and concerned family member. Our fraternity proclaims itself to be “a fraternity dedicated to extending the Masonic way of life through family moral values in a global society.” Through our degree presentations, our numerous charitable commitments, and our increasing inclusion of families, we hope to make ourselves more relevant and attractive to men of sound moral character who have a right to share in what we have long kept as ours alone.

Our fraternity is doing what it can to focus on membership by asking all kinds of questions at every Masonic gathering. We have reached a point in our history where we must be proactive and no longer reactive if we are to enjoy a Masonic future. The inward must move outward to be in contact with societal changes and the needs and demands of our current and future members.

It is necessarily incumbent upon all of us to strongly support our Symbolic Lodges since they are the source of new members. The energy of the Symbolic Lodge must be transmitted to the Scottish Rite, as well as to all our Appendant Bodies if we will enjoy any kind of future at all.

How many of us actually give thought to replacing ourselves in our Lodges and Valleys with at least one candidate each year? Better yet; how many of us do more than just give it thought?

We must not wait for men to come to us, for if we do we might wait in vain. If we do not go after the men of quality who are looking for fulfillment in there lives, men that have had their interest in our fraternity tweaked by the national attention that has been the recent focus of novels, movies and the media, we have failed our fraternity, our Rite and ourselves. This “Age of Information” is our best tool in reaching and attracting these men.

I ask that when you leave this Supreme Council session that you take these thoughts with you. In your new capacity I suggest that you lead by example:

• be the first to get that petition signed for your Symbolic Lodge
• be the first to get at least one application each year for our beloved Rite
• be the first to be charitable – give according to your financial means. Don’t give until it hurts-give until it feels good!”

Blood Bank Donations
Members, we have a blood bank account set up at the blood center. Just tell them its for the Far Hills Masonic Lodge and we will get credit for each pint of blood donated. Thank you. – Ron Seigla

~ In Memory ~
HAROLD DELMAR DITMER
DOB: 07/17/1910 • DIED: 07/29/2007
EA 03-06-1941 0577 OH • FC 04-04-1941 0577 OH • MM 04-23-1941 0577 OH
0577 04/05/1962 • 0734 05/21/1962 AFF • 0734/0784 08/26/2002
He rests from his labors.

~ In Memory ~
BRO GEORGE BECKMAN HUBLER
DOB: 10/15/1922 • DIED: 09/14/2007
EA 09-08-1969 • FC 09-29-1969 • MM 12-08-1969
734/784 8/26/02
He rests from his labors.

Important Notice
Please note that all correspondence to the lodge should be sent to our Secretary’s home address:
John A. Weyrauch • 4700 Briar Knoll Drive • Kettering, OH 45429
(937) 434-5140 • jaweyrauch@woh.rr.com

Send correspondence for the Worshipful Master to:
Lloyd O. Nickell • 5387 Middlebury Road • Dayton, OH 45432
(937) 253-1239 • lnickell50@sbcglobal.net

Do not send mail to the temple address. There is no mail box; it will be returned to the sender by the USPS.