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.

I hope that your summer has been exciting, I know that mine has. It’s time to pick up the tools and begin working again. We have a busy schedule planned for the next couple of months and your participation will be greatly appreciated.

Believe it or not, the Masonic year is actually winding down and we are looking for brethren to fill positions in the line. This may be the year to take a more active role in your Lodge.

Brethren, at our last stated meeting in June we had an unusual occurrence happen. Two candidates opted out of the Grand Master’s Class to take their journey through Masonry the traditional way.

We were privileged to have three Past Grand Masters: MWB David L. Dresser, MWB William P. Mayberry, Sr. and MWB James M. Williamson; and our Deputy Grand Master RWB Terry W. Posey present to initiate the two grandsons of MWB Dresser. Other members of the Lodge assisted in the work of the evening. WB Jim Simko did a fine job with the lecture and Bro. Tom Adams did his usual fine job with the charge.

Please join us in welcoming our new members into the Lodge and help us to make them feel welcome. Newly obligated EAs are Bros. Michael A. Miller and Jonathan D. Miller, two blood brothers who, as you read above, decided to receive their degree work the traditional way. These are the two grandsons of MWB. Dresser.

Grand Master’s Class

At the state-wide Grand Master’s Class held on June 13, 2009, 2340 men were raised. In the Second District, held at the Dayton Masonic Center, 235 candidates (largest in the state) received their three Masonic degrees. That class included nine candidates from Far Hills Lodge, including MWB Dresser’s son-in-law Bro. John E. Millstead, Jr. Other new brothers from the one-day class are Bro. Eric M. Bull, son of Bro. John E. Bull, Jr., Bro. Sean K. Fickert, son of Bro. Robin S. Fickert; Bro. Thomas A. Harris, grandson of Bro. Thomas N. Harris, Bro. Mark T. Seitz, son of Bro. Thomas A. Seitz; Bro. Anthony D. Tomlinson, Bro. Robert Tomlinson, step-sons of WB Lloyd O. Nickell; Bro. Christopher R. Wamsley and Bro. Matthew A. Mattingly, friends of WB Jack M. Harless.

I-CARE

The main mission of Masonic Senior Services/I-CARE is to link senior Masons, their wives and widows, and Eastern Star members to services in their community that will allow them to remain healthy, safe and independent in their own homes as long as possible.

An in-home assessment is available to provide convenience, privacy and individual care in linking unmet needs with available services. Each of the I-CARE Coordinators has extensive knowledge of their area’s available services for seniors.

Lodge Education Officer

On August 5, 1884 on Bedloe’s Island in New York Harbor, the cornerstone for the Statue of Liberty was laid.

On October 9, 1880, the American Committee of the Statue of Liberty issued an invitation to the Freemasons Grand Lodge of the State of New York.

On August 5, 1884, in response to that invitation Grand Master William A. Brodie, assisted by his associate Grand Lodge Officers, laid the cornerstone of the pedestal of the Bartholdi Statue of Liber Enlightening the World, on Bedloe’s Island, in New York Harbor.

The copper box placed under the stone contained many rare memorials. Among the were nineteen bronze medals from the United States Mint, representing as many Presidents of the Federal Government who were all proven Freemasons; a copy of the United States Constitution; George Washington’s Farewell Address; copies of New York City newspapers; a portrait of Bartholdi; a copy of Poem on Liberty by E.R. Johnes; and a list on parchment of the Grand Lodge officers.

Although cornerstones of public buildings and monuments had been laid by representatives of the Grand Lodge from the beginning of the history of the State, voices of opponents began to be heard questioning the propriety of the procedure. The Grand Master took occasion, therefore, to offer worlds of explanation at the laying of the cornerstone of the Statue of Liberty. He said that the Fraternity had been called upon for this service because it had become a common law of practice the world over to invite the Masonic craft to lay the cornerstones of public structures, in time honored recognition of the fact that, symbolically at least, the Freemasons of the present are the descendants of the ancient operative Masons who built the world’s great masterworks of architecture.

There was, besides, a special reason: “No institution has done more to promote liberty and to free men from the trammels and chains of ignorance and tyranny than Freemasonry, and we, as a Fraternity, take an honest pride in depositing the cornerstone of the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World.”

Bro. Frederic A. Bartholdi was born April 2, 1834 at Colmar, Alsace, France. He passed away in 1904. He was the designer of the Statue of Liberty. Bro. Bartholdi convened his Lodge members to review the statue before it was shown to the United States committee. He was one of the early members of Lodge Alsace-Lorraine, Paris, France.

From the Secretary’s Desk

Any questions or problems regarding membership, dues, suspensions, reinstatement from suspension, petitions or awards should check with John Weyrauch. We can make special arrangements according to the situation of each individual brother or just answer your questions. Dues are comin’!

Blood Bank

Brethren, we do have a blood bank account set up at the Community Blood Center. When you donate tell them that it is for the account for Far Hills Masonic Lodge #784. We will get credit for each pint of blood donated. Brethren, this is one way to help others by giving something of yourself.
Thanks,
-Bro. Ron Seigla

Annual Communication

October 16 & 17
Toledo, Ohio

The governing body of Ohio Masonry is the Grand Lodge of Ohio, F & AM, located in Worthington, near Columbus. Each year the Grand Lodge holds an annual communication to dispense with business necessary to govern Ohio masonry and to elect new officers.

The Annual Communication is held in different cities and this year it will be held in Toledo on October 16 & 17.

Since it his highly likely in the normal progression of the officer line that the Deputy Grand Master advances (if elected by the members present at the convocation) to Grand Master, the present DGM, RWB Terry W. Posey, will be elected Grand Master in Toledo.

The Past Masters’ Club of Antioch Shrine has been asked to be the Honor Guard for his installation on Saturday. A bus has been hired to transport anyone desiring to go to Toledo on that Saturday (17th) morning and return later in the afternoon. For details or to reserve your seat, contact Mike Johnson at (513) 885-1627 or (513) 737-6576.

Open Houses

At the statewide open houses mandated by the Grand Master the words used to describe the event were: “excitement” and “success”. Check out the article in the May/June 2009 issue of the Beacon.

A Warm Masonic Tale

This is a story of Masons surrounding a campfire in the Old West, at night, discussing the Fraternity and its teachings. One old man listened patiently, then finally spoke up.

“I can tell you more about Masonry in a little example than some of the great Masonic philosophers can in books.

Everybody stand up and gather in a circle around the campfire,” he said. They did that.

“Now, everybody hold hands with the man next to him,” said the old man. They did that, too.

“What do you see looking ahead?” asked the man. “The face of a brother through the flames,” said one participant. The old man asked, “What do you feel in front of you?” The response was “the warmth of the fire” and “the comfort it brings on a cool night.” The old man continued, “What do you feel at your side?” They responded, “the warm hand of a Brother.”

“Okay,” said the man, “Drop your hands and turn around.” The did so.

“Now what do you see as you look ahead?” asked the old man. The reply: “Complete darkness.”

“What do you feel at your side?” “A sense of loneliness, of being alienated.”

He asked, “What do you feel at your side?” They answered, “Nothing at all.”

Finally, the old man asked, “What do you feel on your backside?” They replied, “The warmth of the fire.”

“So it is with Masonry,” said the old man.

“In Masonic gatherings you can feel the warmth of Masonic interaction. You can see the face of a Brother through the light Masonry brings to you, and you can always feel the warm hand of your Masonic Brother.

When you turn away from Masonry and are out in the world, you see darkness, feel alienated and alone, and you do not feel the warm hand of your Masonic Brother. But Masonry, and the warmth and light it brings, are just a turn away from you.”

Fraternal greetings from the East

Happy New Year Brethren! First of all, I would like to say thank you to all the Brethren of Far Hills Lodge for making my installation a success. In particular, I would like to thank RWB’s Bobby Campbell and (my great-uncle) Dick Harless, for conducting and installing me.

Second, speaking of the New Year, it’s that time again: time for good food, great celebrations and determined resolutions. One resolution I would like to make for myself, as a cog in the wheel of Freemasonry, is to dedicate at least a portion of my spare time to studying, writing and talking about the Craft.

Third, as we look to the future of our Fraternity, one of the easiest ways to spread the word of Free-masonry is by simply living it. Spend time studying the principles of the Craft by reading the myriad and diverse writings on and about the Craft. Engage in conversations with members and non-members alike. I find that the principles of Freemasonry apply to my life situations on a daily basis. Don’t be afraid to share your experiences with others and your ideas, and your concerns. Many are looking for what we have. As the old saying goes, “they would do what you do, if they knew what you knew.” If you feel able to write about your experiences or opinions about the Craft, there are innumerable ways to let your thoughts be heard in this instant age of communication.

Finally, let’s plan to renew our enthusiasm for our great history and future by immersing ourselves in teaching, studying and living out the principles and tenets of Freemasonry. Brothers, this is one resolution we just might be able to stick with!

This Month in Masonic History

January 7, 1808: On this date, The Grand Lodge of Ohio was established. Go to its website: www. freemason.com

~ Trestleboard ~

February 12 ~ 7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting ~ EA Practice
February 26 ~ 7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting ~ EA Degree
March 12 ~ 7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting
March 21 ~ Statewide Open House for all Masonic Lodges
March 21 ~ 2nd District Grand Master’s Reception
March 26 ~ 7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting
April 9 ~ 7:00 PM ~ Stated Meeting
April 16 ~ 7:00 PM ~ Special Meeting ~ Annual Lodge Inspection

From the Secretary’s DeskWe’re off on the New Year, whether we like it or not. Sixteen members have not paid their dues for 2009. Is it your dues card that doesn’t have 2009 on it? The Code requires suspension of members who have not paid their dues by 12/31/08.

To be reinstated after suspension for non-payment, requires the payment of the dues in arrears (70.00). Good standing in Blue Lodge is required for membership in all other Masonic related organizations.

Lodge Education Officer

It is interesting to know that King Solomon, who succeeded David his father on the throne, about 970 BC, is credited with being the author of most of the book of Proverbs in our Bible; and that he was famous for his wisdom as is indicated in the records in the books of Kings and Chronicles. Many of these Proverbs have come from his own experiences; and others may already have been ancient literature of that period.

With the aid of the trestleboard, plan ahead and attend Lodge when you can. Make it happen. Help and encourage your officers to do good work. Help to strengthen your Lodge and Freemasonry. It is important to America.

The Grand Master’s Theme for 2009

Valley of Cincinnati: “Can you describe some of the programs that you have in mind to support your theme, Reach?”

M.W.B. Murphy: “By the very nature of the theme, there are many facets. One example is that we’re working on some initiatives with some of the other Grand bodies, like sharing committees. For years we’ve operated as independent bodies with different jurisdictional boundaries, which makes it more difficult to communicate with one another on a local level. Other initiatives include reaching out to communities by marketing through billboards and getting Freemasonry’s name out there a little more, as well as reaching into charitable activities such as the Masonic Model Student Assistance Program, and more. The bottom line is that we want to develop programs that encourage Brethren to reach for improvement in all of their endeavors.

From Labor to Rest

Jack David Schlemmer
dob 06/25/1929
EA 02/16/1949
FC 06/01/1949
MM 09/14/1949
died 01/11/2009  (No services requested)

David Eugene Busser
dob 04/06/1936
EA 01/08/1963
FC 01/29/1963
MM 04/30/12963
died 12/30/82008

Did U Know?

In Ohio we open the Bible (The Great Light), in a Masonic Lodge to Psalm 133, when the Lodge is opened in the Entered Apprentice degree, Amos 7:7-8 when opened in the Fellowcraft degree, and on Ecclesiastes 12:1-7 when opened in the Master Mason degree. These particular passages are fairly consistent in the different jurisdictions in the United States.

In England, the passages are Ruth 4:7, Judges 12:6 and 1 Kings 7:13-14.

There have been other passages, too, used at various times around the world, such as; Genesis 18, 1 Kings 6:8 and 2 Chronicles 6.
Have you ever read any of them?

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

If the correspondence is meant for the Master, it should be sent to:
Jack M. Harless • 7185 Bigger Lane • Centerville, OHO 45459
(937) 433-7328 •jtoren19@yahoo.com or jack@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.

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.

Brethren, I hope that this newsletter finds everyone in good health. If you have not been able to attend the meetings lately, you have been missing out on some great fellowship.

Our awards night went well. Thanks to the Brethren who were able to show up for their awards. Our night out with the Ladies at Ryan’s Steak House was enjoyed by all who attended.

We will be conferring a Fellow Craft Degree on two candidates on May 24th. Please come out and support your Lodge.

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate RWB Richard L. Coy for being selected as the Scottish Rite honoree for their spring reunion. WB Thomas R. Spettel was the honoree for the York Rite reunion and Grand Masters Class York Rite conferral and WB Bobby G. Campbell is the Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masons of Ohio. It is quite an honor to have these Brethren as members of our Lodge. I would also like to thank them for all of their countless hours of dedication to freemasonry.

This month Brethren we will be having two work days at Lodge one on May 5th and the other on May 12th from 9am to around 2pm.

NEWS FROM THE TEMPLE BOARD

At the meeting on April 26th, the Brethren voted unanimously to sell the property that use to be the ball field. Yes, we have a buyer. More later.

Temple work day on Saturday, May 12, 2007. Brethren we can use your help.

From the Lodge Education Officer

So many people embark on projects to make changes in their lives, only to get detoured or bogged down in the numerous other things that are in their lives. These can be physical blocks, such as a cluttered living room or kitchen but they can also be emotional
issues, mental clarity or personal relationships. Here are a few guides to simplifying your life of the obstacles that stand between you and fulfillment of your
vision. (continued from last month)

CLEAN HOUSE. A big part of simplifying is to declutter your physical landscape. Start with one small area like the kitchen counter or junk drawer and finish it in one shot. Focus your energy on this one space; don’t think about the messy garage or bedroom closet. You can even invest extra. into your small project such as putting in a drawer liner or organizing tray. This may encourage you to protect it from future clutter. It’s important to come up with a system as you organize and also to take steps to prevent clutter from even coming into your home.

GET A HEALTHY BODY. While you are getting rid of the junk around your house, examine your eating and health habits and start eliminating the junk there, too. Along with limiting caffeine, sugar and alcohol, look at eliminating junk food, tobacco and any other thing that ages, erodes, clogs up or adds weight to your body and puts your health at risk. It’s also good to update your personal appearance.

CLEAR OUT YOUR DEBT. Stop impulse buying and start paying off your credit cards. Establish a budget and start living within your means. Can you imagine all of the free time you’ll gain when you are not worrying about money?

SIMPLIFY YOUR LANGUAGE. Try to speak honestly and directly with courtesy and kindness. Don’t use whiny and apologetic language to ask for what you want (“I wonder if I could possibly persuade you to…”). Get rid of the swear words, hostile comments and the idea that you must voice your opinion about everything. Throw your judgment of others to the wayside.

LEARN TO SAY “NO.” It was probably one of the first words you ever learned, so why are you having so much difficulty using it now? Use it. It’s your life/your time, your resources and you have the absolute right to use it as you see fit.

LIMIT TRADITION. Tradition is wonderful so long as it doesn’t run your life. If a tradition has lost its meaning or purpose and is just a timewaster, then get rid of it. When anyone says “but we’ve always done it this way,” figure out why. If it no longer makes sense/then feel free to walk away or change it.

MAKE TIME FOR YOU. Time is tight for most of us. Make a decision that you will set aside time that is just for you. Start with 15 minutes a day if that’s all you can find. Lock your door/turn off the phone, or whatever it takes, but it’s important to create a space where you can focus on only you. Meditate, pray, write in a journal or eat an apple. Whatever you want to do with your time, do it.

JOKE FOR THE MONTH

A man had been convicted of murder and was about to be hanged. Just before the sentence was executed, the hangman asked the man if he had any last words. “Yes” came his reply, “I hate Masons!” “Why do you hate Masons?” asked the hangman. “The man I killed was a Mason,” explained the murderer, “the sheriff who hunted me down was a Mason, the Prosecutor who tried my case was a Mason, the Judge who presided at the trial was a Mason, and all of the men on the jury who found me guilty and said I should be hanged were Masons!” “Is that all?” asked the hangman. “Yes” replied the convicted murderer. “Then you will advance one step with your left foot.”

Greetings Brethren, I hope that all of you are well. March was a very busy month. Lodge inspection, three EA’s, the Grand Master’s Reception and the Grand Master’s Class. Far Hills Lodge had four candidates in the one-day class and over 275 men participated from the Second Masonic District. Over six hundred were in attendance.

It’s been good to see some new faces in Lodge the past few weeks.

Thanks to the brethren for the many new petitions received recently; it sure is nice to have real candidates. Brethren, keep the petitions coming. I would also like to thank all of the special lodge supporters. Are you one yet?

This month we will have a night out with the ladies on April 21st. We are meeting at 6:00 PM at Ryan’s Steak House, 1760 Stroop Road in Kettering. Please call David Brewer at 299-9016 or Lloyd Nickell at 253-1239 to let us know if you and your lady will attend.

News from the Temple Board

There will be a special meeting of the Far Hills Temple Board at the Stated Meeting of the Lodge on April 26, 2007. We will be able to answer all of your questions concerning the sale of the parcel of land at the back of our property. Please take this opportunity to attend. Check the Trestleboard for the scheduled work days. We sure could use your help.

From the Secretary’s Desk

A 50-year service award pin and certificate were presented to BRO. FRANCIS (Frank) W. KIMRY, a member of Triangle Lodge #748 F&AM of Columbus, Ohio, by Secretary Weyrauch on March 23, 2007.

From the LEO

So many people embark on projects to make changes in their lives, only to get detoured or bogged down in the numerous other things that are in their lives. These can be physical blocks, such as a cluttered living room or kitchen but they can also be emotional issues, mental clarity or personal relationships. Here are a few guides to simplifying your life of the obstacles that stand between you and fulfillment of your vision.

Empty Your Brain. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and stressed out, it can be liberating to empty your brain of your internal “to-do” list and emotional baggage.

Lighten your mental load by writing down or journaling the stuff that is taking up mind space. At this point, you don’t have to take any action on it. The objective is to clear it from your head.

Eliminate Relations That are Sucking the Life Out of You. Limit your time with them and set boundaries around what activities you allow them to engage you in.

Be honest in your evaluation. Who is helping you and who is dragging you down? Who is eating up your time and giving nothing back? Who makes you feel good, supported and energized? Anyone who adds value to your life stays in and everybody else goes away.

Lighten Your Heart. Getting closure on the past and relationships can unburden you of emotional baggage that is weighing down your heart and spirit. Forgive and forget. Let it go. Call that person up or write them a letter you never send, but get over it.

In Memory

WILLIAM HENRY EICHER
Endowed Member
DOB: 02/16/1927 • DIED: 03/23/2007
EA 11-20-1961 • FC 01-08-1962 • MM 02-19-1962
He rests from his labors.

Joke for the Month

A little before Lodge is about to open an old man totters up to the Tyler and says, “I’m here to receive my 2nd degree.” Well, they all look at this guy, who really is older than dirt, and they ask him to explain. “I was entered on July 4, 1922. Now I’m ready for my 2nd degree.”
So they go scurrying for the records, and sure enough, there was his name, entered on July 4, 1922. “Where have you been all these years? What took you so long to be ready for your 2nd?” they asked. He replied, “I was learning to subdue my passions!”