MASONIC NEWS IN THE BIG COUNTRY

T HE B EEHIVE
V OLUME 5

ISSUE 2

June 30, 2014 A.L. 6014

No bees, no honey, no work, no money.

Grand Master Visits Abilene

On Friday, May 9, our
Grand Master visited John
Sayles Lodge 1408 A.F. &
A.M. for an area wide
Grand Masters Conference.
Worshipful Master Don
Wilkerson reported that
there were over one hundred
and fifty attendees hailing
from all over the Big
Country area and beyond.
The conference was open to
all Masons, their families
and guests. John Sayles
Lodge was selected to host
the event this year.
Attendees ere treated to a
hot meal, drinks and
Most Worshipful Jerry L. Martin, Grand refreshments. Everyone
thoroughly enjoyed the
Master of Texas Masons 2014-2015
conference and fellowship.

Each year the Grand Master

has a special logo designed
for coins, tie clasps, pins,
coffee mugs, t shirts and
some times even pocket
knives and shot glasses.
The coins are usually
available in bronze for about
$5.00 and in silver for
substantially more. Many
Masons collect the coins
each year. You can
purchase them at Grand
Lodge or from your DDGM.

Most Worshipful Martin is also a member of the Austin Scottish Rite Valley and is a 33 IGH. He is a
member of Austin Council 2, Royal and Select Masters, Lone Star Chapter 6, Royal Arch Masons,
Colorado Commandery 4, Texas York Rite College 14, St. Austin Conclave Red Cross of Constantine,
Societas Rosicruciana in Civitatibus Foederatis, and the Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon
Fort Worth Crusader Chapel 62. He also is a Member in Perpetuity of Anson Jones Chapter 507,
National Sojourners, Ben Hur Shrine, and Omala Grotto. He served as Worthy Grand Patron of the
Grand Chapter of Texas, Order of the Eastern Star in 2005, and is an endowed member of Travis Chapter
No. 472. He served the General Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star as Ambassador to Hawaii 20092012, and as a General Grand Chapter Committee member for Scottish Rite Charities 2012-2015. He
received the Grand Cross of Color in 2005 from the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls, and the
Honorary Legion of Honor from the International Supreme Council Order of the DeMolay in 2012.*
Photo from Grand Lodge of Texas Web Page. Information from bio by R:W: David Counts

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BIG COUNTRY MASONIC WIDOWS HONORED

Our District 75 Masonic Widows (pictured above, top)were honored during a dinner sponsored by Abilene
Lodge 559 this past March. Volunteers served the Widows Chicken Parmigiana with hot garlic bread,
vegetables, salad and dessert. Brother Chris Tullos was in charge of the food preparation again this year and
provided a fine meal. The theme was Valentines day and each Widow and Lady attending received a box of
Valentines Chocolates and a gift bag from the Lodge. The program was on The Texas Masonic Retirement
Center in Arlington, Texas. The program was presented by the center administrator, Gary Blair (bottom
right) Many of the attendees had never heard of the Masonic Retirement Center and others were not aware
that it was open to Masonic Widows . One method of entry is to pay approximately $25,000 down and about
$1500.00 per month for an apartment. The center provides complete care for residents that meet the entry
requirements. *The Texas Masonic Retirement Center offers beautiful, relaxing accommodations amid 100
acres of sweeping grassland, wildflowers, and a century-old pecan orchard. Youll enjoy quiet country living
or fill your days with countless activities, knowing your privacy is respected and your independence is
honored. We are proud to invite you to consider our newest luxury apartment building, Royal Arch Plaza.
Youll find the latest in hardwood cabinetry, custom ceramic tile floors and back splashes, Corian
countertops, and stylish carpeting. All units include a refrigerator, dishwasher, washer, and dryer. Upper
floor units offer a private, covered balcony. At Texas Masonic Retirement Center, youll find options to fit
your lifestyle and budget. Check out our photo tour for a close up look at our campus and services. In
addition to a wide variety of living accommodations, youll have plenty of options for entertainment.
Planned events and transportation to baseball games, live theatre, award-winning musicals, movies, fishing
excursions, the state fair, shopping malls, and much more are available at no extra charge. We also provide
Masonic-related events at TMRC and transportation to Masonic events throughout the region. If you have
questions about TMRC, eligibility requirements, or payment options, please contact us at 817.275.2893 or
email us at information@txmrc.org. (*Information from Texas Masonic Retirement Center Website)

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Small Town Lodges

A Visit to Fischer Lodge 703 A. F. & A.M.

Brother Gallaway and myself finding an open night on

our calendar decided to take a trip to Roby, Texas for
Fischer Lodge April Stated meeting. We were both
surprised to see some old familiar faces. Mac
Crowder and his grandson, Danny Grimes, Michael
Jones. David Hargrove, Freddy Raspberry Lewis
Williams, Jim McKenzie and others. The Lodge moved
to this location (downstairs from previous location) in
1975 and has met in a downsized first floor Lodge
ever since. Of special note was the Lodges charitable
donation of $4000.00 in Scholarships this year. The
Texas style chili was just the right entree for the evening
along with some cold ice tea. The brethren were happy
to see us and we thoroughly enjoyed the visit both
before and after lodge.

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AWARDS AND HONORS

Brother David Jordan Receives Golden Trowel
Merkel Lodge 710 recognized Brother David Jordans many years
of outstanding performance with the Golden Trowel Award.
Brother Jordan is a Past Master of Merkel Lodge and has served as
an officers for the past several years. David is a regular at all called
and stated meetings. He works in the oil field industry and on many
occasions have to drive hundreds of miles to make meetings.
Davids son, David Jr, was at the open awards ceremony to witness
his dads award. David Jr has also expressed and interest in our
grand old Fraternity. Congratulation Brother Jordan and thank you
for your hard work and dedication to our Lodge and Masonry.

Brother Charlie Barnes Receives Golden Trowel

On May 13th, Lawn Lodge 1230 Awarded Brother Charlie Barnes the
Golden Trowel Award. A formal luncheon was prepared for the event
and Sue Barnes, Charlies wife was in attendance for the ceremony.
Brother Barnes began his Masonic Career in Yellowhouse Lodge in
Lubbock, where he was initiated, passed and raised in 1970. He is a
Past Master of Lawn Lodge and has served as an officer for 16 years,
most recently as Chaplain. He served as DDGM District 75 in 199596. He received his 40 year award in 2010. Congratulations Charlie,
thank you for your many contributions to our Fraternity.

Community Builders Award

Honorable JudgeSparky Dean was presented the Community Builders Award in a ceremony at his work place.
The Award was presented by J. B. Cloud, Past Master Abilene Lodge 559. The following is a letter from Sparky:
I just wanted to thank you and the great folks at Lodge No. 559, A.F & A.M. for the honor of receiving this years
Community Builder award. You and I both know there are many, many people more
deserving of this recognition. I truly am surprised and thankful for the certificate and
award. Please pass along my appreciation to all the Masons involved with this. And
thank the Masons on all they do on a daily basis for the rest of us! Sorry for the
confusion of last week. I had been subpoenaed to testify in district court on a juvenile
case for Monday and/or Tuesday of the week. That threw my Monday and Tuesdays
court schedule into turmoil trying to get it all into the rest of the week. On Wednesday,
our 10:00 AM court had to be bumped to 11:00 at the last minute, because of a
defendants inability to appear on time. The rest, you already know about! My
apologies for the snafu!

The Community Builders Award is the highest honor a Masonic Lodge can
bestow upon a non- Mason. Congratulations Sparky, the award is well
deserved. (Picture and letter supplied by Worshipful J. B. Cloud)

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Abilene 559 News

Service Awards Presented
On 4/12/2014 , Abilene Lodge 559 presented Service Awards in an open meting of the Lodge.
Worshipful Pat Donahue opened the Lodge for the purpose of presenting the Awards and turned
the program over to Ben Brown for the presentations.

65 Year Service Awards: Roy McBride, James Tittle, and Belon Sedberry
60 Year Service Awards: Donald Cauble, Aaron Cook, Odis Claxton, Gerald Hill,
James Hopkins, Kenneth Moore, William Bill Senter, Doran Smith, Robert Strain,
Jim Wilson, and George Wright
50 year Service Awards: Stanley Alford, Robert Gillette, George Ray Godbee, Arthur
Maxwell, John Muhleman, Floyd Standifer, and Randal Wiginton.

Lamar Medals and Scholarships

Congratulations to Aaron Marriott of Wylie High School and
to Shaila Pendley of Hawley High School both recipients of
the 2014 Abilene Lodge 559 Maribeau B. Lamar Medal and
$1,000 scholarships. Abilene Lodge 559 awards two
scholarships each year at Wylie and Hawley High Schools to
deserving students selected by the school staff. This years
awards were presented by JB Cloud.
Chuck Roachs Art
Brother Chuck Roach is well known for his
very unique style of painting. For the past
several years he has painted portraits of the
Worshipful Masters at Merkel Lodge 710.
They hang proudly in the second floor ante
room where they can be viewed prior to
Lodge meetings. Last year he also painted a
portrait of Pat Donahue, Worshipful Master
of 559. On the left is a portrait of Jody
Murillo, Worshipful Master (elect) of Abilene
Lodge 559. On the right is another of
Chucks works. He is available for portraits
and has many works for sale.

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Hobah supports shrine childrens hospital

This year, Hobah Lodge held a charitable raffle to benefit the Shiner's Children's Hospitals. The members
have been selling tickets for a $500.00 Bed and Breakfast stay at various locations. This year the lodge raised
$1,610.00. Worshipful Master Tim Dillon (above right) presented the check to Suez Shrine Potentate Jim
McKenzie on June 14, in a ceremony held at the Masonic Temple. The Houston Hospital was chosen by
Hobah members to receive the funds this year. Shriner's Hospitals provide treatment for children with burns
and orthopedic conditions all at no cost to the families. There are 23 Shriners Hospitals in the United States
providing free treatment for children. You can donate to the Shrine Hospitals at shrinershosptals.org.
Hobah Garage Sale! Hobah Lodge and Worshipful Master Bobby Woodward would like to thank all of those
who helped make this years Garage Sale it as a huge success.

It was cold, windy and sprinkling rain, but Abilene 559

die-hard Brothers Leonhart, Price and Quinn still made
it to the Annual Trash-Off. The brothers met at 8:30 to
clean up FM 707. They were the only ones to show up
this year. Hopefully participation will be better next
year. Thanks, Brothers for your dedication!

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LAWN LODGE HOSTS YORK RITE COLLEGE

PAST GOVERNORS LUNCHEON

A.D. LONNIE BOGGS HONORED
On Saturday, May
17th, Lawn Lodge
hosted a formal
luncheon for the
Heart of Texas
York Rite College for
their annual
Installation of
Officers and a
luncheon
remembering the Past
Governors. The
tables were set with
purple table
coverings, placemats and napkins, purple vases
with white roses decorated the tables. The event
was held in honor of A.D. Lonnie Boggs.
Distinguished Brother Boggs is the Senior
Governor of the College and his many
accomplishments reflect great credit upon himself
and York Rite Masonry. Brother Boggs served as
Master of Abilene Lodge 559 in 1988 and May
Lodge in 1997 and 2003. He served Abilene
Chapter, Royal Arch Masons as High Priest in
1992 , 2008, and 2012. He served as Thrice
Illustrious Master of Abilene Council 100, Royal
and Select Masters in 1993. Lonnie also served
Abilene Commandery, Knights Templar as
Eminent Commander in 1991 and 1994. He is also
a member of Stamford Commandery and served as
Junior Warden from 2007 - 2010 and as Captain
General in 1992. Lonnie served as Governor of the
Heart of Texas York Rite College in 1991. He was
Puissant Soverign of the Permian Basin Red Cross
of Constantine in 2000. Lonnie has also held the
prestigious office of Very Eminent Preceptor, Holy
Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests in 2005.

Was awarded the Cornerstone Award , Cryptic

Triangle Award and Excalibur Award in 1996. He
received the Order of High Priesthood in 1991 and
Order of the Silver Trowel in 1992. He served as
Grand Captain of the Host in 2000, District
Deputy Grand Master, District 75 in 1990, District
Deputy Grand High Priest in 1993 and District
Deputy Grand Master in Council in 1994. Thank
you Distinguished Brother for your many years of
dedicated service to the York Rite.

Lonnie received the Golden Trowel Award in

1998 and Sam Houston Hall of Fame in 1986. He

The York Rite College is an invitational Masonic

Body. A Mason must be a member in good standing
in a Royal Arch Chapter to be considered for
membership.

Past Governors Heart of Texas

York Rite College
Thomas C. Yantis, 1987-88 (UD) Thomas C.
Yantis 1988-89, John Schreiver, 1990, Lonnie
Boggs , 1991, Jack Locke, 1992, Red Robason,
1993, Clyde Majors, 1994, Ronald Keister,
1995, Glen McCandles, 1996, Grover
Cleveland, 1997, Edward Yantis 1998, Jerry
Pingle, 1999, O.L. Clark, 2000, Sam
Worbington, 2001, Paul Warren 2002, Kenneth
Lunsford, 2003, Lewis Williams, 2004, Floyd
Harrison, 2005, Albert Diekman, 2006, Mac
Crowder, 2007, John Williams, 2008, Don
Wittie, 2009, Charlie Martin, 2010, Rusty Culp,
2011, Charles Miller, 2012, Hubert Smith 2013,
Tom Crowder, 2014
Many thanks to Lawn Lodge for the decorations
and meal, especially Brother Gary Galloway
without whose help this could not have happened.
Three Lawn members belong to the York Rite
College. Lonnie Boggs, Preston Curry, and
myself. I chose Lawn Lodge as host Lodge this
year since I was being installed as current
Governor. Thanks to everyone for making this a
most memorable event.- The Editor

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YORK RITE FESTIVAL SCHEDULED

GET MORE LIGHT - JOIN THE YORK RITE

Every Christian Mason Should be a Knight Templar

Coming Soon! Saturday July 26th!
Ever thought about joining the York Rite? Now is the time! Big Country Chapter and Council will be
conferring the York Rite Degrees with the first session on Saturday, July 26, breakfast at 6 a.m. and
degree work starting at 7 a.m. Only the Chapter and Council Degrees will be conferred on this date.
The second session for the Commandery Orders will be announced at a later date. The Festival will
be in Stanford at the York Rite Temple. Discover the Master Masons Lost Word - experience some
of the most beautiful and meaningful degrees in all of Masonry. You will receive the Royal Arch
Degrees: Mark Master, Past Master, Most Excellent Master, and Royal Arch Degree. Council
Degrees: Royal Master, and Select Master .Contact any York Rite Mason for more information, or call
Charlie Martin at 325-665-5840..

York Rite Easter Sunrise Service

Members of Stamford, Abilene, and Sweetwater Commanderies gathered together at the Stamford York Rite
Center to celebrate Easter. The activities began at 6:30 a.m. with coffee and donuts as members came in from
around the Big Country. Chairs were set up outside where a permanent cross has been erected. Sir Knight
Jerry Pingle lead the group in several Easter hymns and Sir Knight Glen McCandless read applicable passages
of scripture and delivered the Grand Prelates Easter Message. The service was inspirational. The Knights
dismissed soon after the Sunrise Service so that each could attend services at their Church of choice. Pictured
above, left to right: Sir Knight Glen McCandless, Past Grand Commander, Sir Knight Jerry Pingle, Most
Eminent Deputy Grand Commander, Sir Knight Doug Price and his wife, and Sir Knight Hubert Smith,

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About Our Brothers . A New Monthly Column Highlighting an Area Mason

JB Cloud Retires From Radio

JB Cloud, Long Time Country Radio DJ and Past Master of
Abilene Lodge 559 has retired from radio as of Thursday,
April 17, 2014. Why this date? Well, JB switched careers
back in 2011 when he became a Farmers Insurance Agent,
knowing that radio had changed and his time behind the
microphone was limited due to corporate cutbacks. After
Brother Cloud got his feet on the ground in Insurance, he
knew the time had come to retire. JB set December 31, 2012
as his last day. JB was then asked to stay on for a while
longer, pre-recording his show. The insurance business is
going very well and JB needed to cut back some on outside
activities to free up some time so JB chose the anniversary
date of when he was hired at KBCY to retire on. JB moved to
Abilene 16 years ago and opened the mic for the first time
on April 17, 1998 at KBCY. April must be a good transition
month for Brother Cloud. He worked from April 1994 to April
1995 at KOUL in Corpus Christi then from April of 1995 to April of 1998 at KOUL in Big
Spring. In the past 16 years, JB was able to entertain people cross the Big Country
and the World, including a trip overseas to The Netherlands and Belgium. JB has won
numerous awards including Texas Radio DJ of the year and Large Market Radio DJ of
the Year, twice each. JB is considered as on the Radio Pioneers of the Texas Country
movement by many in the industry. Since moving to Abilene, JB also managed to
spend 9 years as a TV Weatherman for KTAB and KRBC. As JB sees it, there is not a
big calling from 70 year old radio guys that make a decent living. He has known for
years that a career change would have to happen one day and that day has come. To
use the words that JB ended every radio broadcast with for the past 20 years and 8
months, "Keep It Country."
JB is one of our most colorful members. He is active in the Suez Shrine and the
Abilene Shrine Club. Make an effort to meet him if you havent already - hes quite a
character. Best of luck in your new endeavors, Brother. (Picture and info from blog)

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ABILENE 559 CONFERS OUTDOORS MASTERS DEGREE

It was the perfect day for a Masters Degree . The outdoor Lodge Room had been previously set up by hard
working volunteers out at John Tuchers Blue Horse Ranch The sun was shinning and it was already getting
a bit warm as the Brothers began to show up for the Degree. Brother Keith Quinn was regularly raised to the
sublime degree of a Master Mason amidst dozens of Brothers from around the district. Robert Leonhart
conferred the Degree in flawless form. Brother Ron Houghton cooked up and served some mighty fine
hamburgers following the degree. To the best of anyones knowledge, this was the first daylight outdoor
degree the Lodge has ever conferred. Many thanks to the volunteers and especially to BrotherTucher

Quarterly Birthday Party Oaks at Radford Hills

On March 22, Abilene Lodge 559 held their quarterly Birtday Party for the residents at The Oaks at Radford
Hills Retirement Center. Approximately 45 guests were served soft drinks and cake, 30 residents were
presented with birthday gifts from the Lodge. Volunteers left to right: John Tucher, Keith Quinn, Robert
Leonhart, Mr. Neff, Bruce Trogdon, Ron Houghton, center photo and Shorty Stout and Bill Weathers far
right. Thanks to Charlie Reichert and his band members and their wives for donating their time and talent.

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11

THAT I MIGHT TRAVEL IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES

From Worshipful Chuck Roach, Past Master of
Merkel 710, currently Senior Warden Abilene
559, while in Scotland.
Edinburgh is about 350 miles north of London-five hours on the train. I made this side trip to
attend lodge in the motherland of Freemasonry. I
proved I was a mason at the Scottish Grand
Lodge on George street, and asked if they could
recommend a lodge that was meeting that night-within walking distance. They had several
choices. By random chance, I picked one of the
oldest lodges on earth. Journeyman Lodge #8 in
Edinburgh has had members meeting regularly
since 1707. All the original members were
operative stone masons. I walked across the,
"North Bridge," to Black Friars Street at seven,
and was cheerfully admitted. I had an amazing
lodge experience! Later at the banquet, after
toasting the Queen and lots of other things, the
J.W. told me an interesting story. When the
architect who designed the White House in
Washington was given permission to begin
construction, there were not enough qualified
stone masons in that area. He contacted
Journeyman Lodge #8 in Edinburgh and hired
six Master Masons. So, Scottish Masons from
this lodge built the White House in D.C.
Worshipful Preston Curry in New Zealand
Brother Curry has been in New Zealand for almost
a month now. He has kept in touch and reports
that he has attended Lodge there and has also
attended Chapter and Council meetings. His hosts
find it incredible that he has received so many
degrees at such a young age. Preston reports that
he is having a blast attending the different
Masonic functions. He also reported that his car
was stolen this past Saturday. He is staying busy
with his work and will have loads of Masonic tales
upon his return. Hopefully, well still have
fraternal relations with New Zealand. Have fun,
Preston!

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12

WHAT IF MASONIC EDUCATION BROKE OUT IN YOUR LODGE?

By S. Kenneth Baril From The Beacon - Central District Masonic Newsletter

The Beacon Editors Note;

Fact 1. Younger Masons want to learn more about
Freemasonry.
Fact 2. Older Masons want to go home early.
Therein lies Masonrys problem.
This article may be a harsh analogy and offend some,
even though it is written somewhat as a satire. The
message rings true, and for that no apology is given.
How long has it been since any form of Masonic
education actually broke out within the confines of your
lodge rooms? Luckily, it doesnt happen often. For if so,
it probably it would scare or disturb those of us who are
still awake. So lets be extremely cautious and not
permit it to occur often and surely not without much
planning,contemplation and defiantly not before forming
several committees to study its long term effects on the
Lodge. Then a report must be made and returned to the
brothers so that it may be discussed in great detail over
the course of several meetings, or until a consensus is
made that it probably would take up so much time
as to surely shorten our business meetings, and the
thought would be quickly dropped or tabled for future
consideration by the Lodge. The concept of actually
having Masonic discussions or an education program
during open lodge, though radical as this concept may
seem, was accomplished in lodges that are near and dear
to our hearts, but that was a long time ago in our past
when men still read, studied and cared about such
matters. Programs were planned for regular meeting with
articles brought in; papers we re being written and
presented by Brothers on subjects as varied as history,
music, morality, philosophy, symbolism of the working
tools and other elements within the degrees. These
subjects were then discussed in great detail. Questions
were asked and learning happened. This had a tendency
to expand ones mind and knowledge not only of the
lodge, but society in general. If I am not correct, that is

one of the main tenants of the lodge to improve our

self in Masonry. Too many brothers are so unaware
of what the Lodge is really trying to accomplish in its
teaching by symbols and allegories. We have nearly
stopped educating ourselves about the meanings of
the symbolism an allegories presented in the degrees.
Brother Oliver Day Street was quoted in The Builder
Magazine, August 1919. In our Masonic studies, the
moment we forget that whole and ever part of
Freemasonry is symbolic and allegoric, is the same
instant we begin to grope in the dark. Its ceremonies,
signs, tokens, words and lectures at once become
meaningless or trivial. The study of no other aspect of
Freemasonry is more important, yet I believe the
study of no aspect of it has been so much neglected.
We all know the old standard To make good men
better. In reality it means so much more, as it
charges you to explore your senses and acquire a
working knowledge of the seven liberal arts and
sciences to make you a more rounded person by
improving yourself in Masonry. As stated earlier,
this would have a definite effect upon our business
meetings. It might even encourage men to attend
meetings and participate in the free exchange of
knowledge and actually learn about Masonry. A man
freely gives up his time to attend our meetings; sitting
through a meeting that was very much like the last
one and without much difference except when a
degree is worked. We may have conditioned
ourselves to these types of meetings but if we are to
attract and keep new members we are going to have
to give them something with more substance for the
time they spend away from their families and to make
their attendance feel worthwhile Be prepared to raise
the ire of more than a few brethren if you are so bold
as to make a recommendation of injecting a little
Masonic education into their meetings. Please dont
be foolish enough as to make the suggestion that once
a year they have a special meeting in which to put on
a degree with all its related lectures. This will be
received as though you are a leper, heretic, iconoclast,
or at least one who goes around kicking the sacred
cow, even though this would be a perfectcont next
page

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Masonic Education continued from previous page

opportunity for the newer brothers to gain

knowledge and experience about the Craft. It would
also afford them a chance to learn and participate in
actual degree work. True, it would take longer to
confer the degree but not nearly as long as we have
endured while sitting through two degrees in one
meeting. By virtue of being a special, it could
happen on a Saturday which would afford us the
time to do it right and not take time away from
more important deliberations like what brand of
toilet paper to stock or which is the better of the
two light bulbs to use. This is by no means the only
thing that could be injected into our lodges. Some
jurisdictions have instated informal study groups
open to all Masons on varies subjects about the
Craft. We must be ever mindful that the new
members of today will have the stewardship of the
Lodge in the future. The better their knowledge of
Masonry today, the better they may teach its
principles to the future generations of Masons. We
have stopped educating newly made Masons about
the degree and their symbolism, and how they
pertain to the betterment of his life. In doing so the
re has been a decline in Masonic knowledge. If this
trend continues and we dont start some sort of
education program, our future leaders will know
how to open, close, and conduct a business
meeting, put on a degree and little else. Will they
have the knowledge to impart to a newly raised
brother on how a Mason is to be made into a better
man? Fewer men read today compared to our
brothers in the first part of the 20th century. So
where will they gain this knowledge? In Europe
they take the time in which to teach these lessons in
their lodges. The process of becoming a Mason
may take longer, but their memberships are
growing and flourishing, but we dont teach
candidates much in our Lodges and we are in a
huge decline. We have blamed every conceivable
reason for our loss in membership, but the root of
the problem, which we will not acknowledge, is
APATHY. I will close with this with a quote from
an 1875 article by Dr. Oliver Mackey. The
ultimate success of Masonry depends on the
intelligence of her disciples.

PAGE

13

KING SOLOMONS
TEMPLE
HAVE MASONS GOT IT
ALL WRONG?
I do not know about wrong, but we
certainly do have it backwards!
Orientation
It is worth noting that the orientation of the temples at
Jerusalem was the reverse of the present orientation of
Christian churches. A worshipper in the Holy Place of
the temple looked west to the Holy of Holies or east
through the entrance to see the rising sun. Christian
churches usually have their main entrance in the west
and the altar in the east. Lodges of operative Free
Masons have always adopted the orientation of the
temples at Jerusalem, with the entrance in the east and
the master in the west. The orientation of lodges of
speculative Freemasons is the reverse, probably
because the compiler and editor of the original
Constitutions of the Freemasons published by order
of the Grand Lodge of England in 1723, the Rev Dr
James Anderson DD, was an influential Presbyterian
clergymen who as a matter of course would have
adopted the orientation then in use in Christian
churches. .Another possible reason is that early
speculative ritualists may have been influenced by an
essential doctrine of that particular school of the Cabala
that says: His Majesty . . . sits on a throne in the east,
as the actual representative of God. Whatever its
origin, the reversal of the orientation in lodges of
speculative Freemasons has caused confusion in the
interpretation of their symbolism, because the words of
the ritual were adapted from Operative usage based on
the orientation of the temple. In conclusion it is worth
quoting Dr Oliver, to whom we have already referred,
who said in his lectures on Signs and Symbols: The
principal entrance to the lodge room ought to face the
east, because the east is a place of light both physical
and moral; and therefore the brethren have access to
the lodge by that entrance, as a symbol of mental
illumination.* *
**Information from Internet Masonic Blog Author Unknown

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14

West Texas Traveling Degree Team Holds

Scottish Rite Reunion

Pictured left to right: Charlie Martin, Jerry Pingle, Mike Lockhart (candidate), Larry Coates,
Rusty Harris (candidate), Glen McCandless, Kenneth Williams (candidate) and Hubert Smith
The morning started off with donuts and some of
Charlie Martinss mighty strong coffee.
Candidates began arriving about 7 p.m. After
registration the candidates were given an
overview of the days activities by Charlie Martin
33 IGH, Reunion Director. While he was
briefing the aspirants, the degree teams were
busy arranging the many costumes and props for
the days degree work.

Rose Croix, the Eighteenth Degree, Knight of the

Rose Croix. These four Chapter Degrees cover the
period of time from the destruction of King
Solomons Temple through the completion of the
Book of Revelation approximately 558 B.C. To
100 A.D. The lessons of Faith, Hope, and Charity
are taught in this degree. Brother Larry Coates 32,
Degree Master expertly confers this degree and
guides the candidates through its many lessons.

The work would begin with the Lodge of

Perfection and the Ineffable Degrees. The
Degree Team, conferred the Fourth Degree
Secret Master followed by the Fourteenth
Degree Perfect Elu. This section of the
Scottish Rite Degrees is called the Lodge of
Perfection because it perfects the first three
Symbolic Lodge Degrees with the rediscovery of
the Master Masons lost word. Brother Hubert
Smith, 32 KCCH, is Degree Master for the
Fourth Degree and Jerry Pingle 33 IGH, Degree
Master Fourteenth Degree.

The Council of Kadosh consists of twelve degrees

culminating with the 30th Degree Knight Kadosh.
These degrees are philosophical and their lessons
mystical. Brother Rick Trogdon, 32 KCCH,
Degree Master teaches the brothers about the
dangers of despotism.

After a short break, the candidates were

reassembled for terminal degree in the Chapter of

The Crowning Jewel of the day was the 32nd Degree

conferred by Reunion Chairman and Degree Master,
Charlie Martin, 33 IGH. This beautiful degree,
pictured above, culminates with the class receiving
their 32 hats. Congratulations to our three new
Princes of the Royal Secret.

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Stones from the Quarries

Welcome Cousin!
E.C. Killian, Sr Council
452 Allied Masonic
Degrees (AMD), and
James M. Wilson Council
92 Knight Masons
welcome new members
Doug Price and Tom
Crowder. Membership

to both is invitational.
Pictured left to right: Larry Coates, Jerry Pingle, Doug Price,
Charlie Martin, Tom Crowder, and Glen McCandless

Newly Elected Lodge Officers

Abilene Lodge 559: WM Jody Murillo, SW Chuck
Roach, JW Lee Ramirez, Jr.
Anson 575: WM David Hargrove, SW Pete Klein, JW
Don Wilkerson
Baird 522: WM Mike Bell, SW Bill Giles, JW Larry
King
Clyde 1056: WM Harvey Wheeler, SW Darrell
Watkins, JW Dale Burge
Hamlin 958: WM Jim Dixon, SW Paul Frazier, JW
George Stoval
Hobah 1394: WM Bobby Woddard, SW Pete Wiley,
JW Josh Leddy
John Sayles 1408: WM Roy McClendon, SW Gene
Allee, JW Joe Harris
Lawn 1230: WM Steve Kellar, SW Phillip Ratliff, JW
Ben Brown
Merkel 710: WM Eddy Harris, SW David Clark, JW
Scott Alves
Did you know that dolphins are so smart that within
a few weeks of captivity they can train a human to
stand on the side of their tank and feed them.

Letters of suspension
have been mailed to
Brothers who failed to
pay their dues by June 24.
IF you were recently
suspended all you have to do to be reinstated is to
pay your dues.
Customs and Courtesies
Common Faux Pas
The Masonic Apron should always be worn as the
outermost garment, if you are wearing a coat it still
goes on the outside of the jacket.
In Lodge, members should al sways stand when
addressed by the Worshipful Master.
Members and Officers should be properly clothed
before entering the Lodge Room. Aprons and
Jewels should be donned outside the door, not
inside the Lodge room.

Welcome Fun Spots

We a pleased to introduce a professional cartoon
to our publication drawn by Brother Teddy
Trogdon, member of Abilene Lodge 559 , (and
father of The Editor). We hope you will enjoy
his timeless humor.

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Lawn Clippings
LAWN CONFERS CANDLELIGHT DEGREE

Above: Lawn Lodges new logo and

motto designed by Ed Gongora.

Pictured left to right: Phillip Ratliff,

Ed Gongora, Steve Kellar, Steve
Sheppard, Ben Brown, Chuck Roach,
John Armistead, FC 1, Gary
Galloway, FC 2.
Brother Doug Ford and
Brother Bobby Satterwhite
were presented their 40 Year
Service Awards during
Mays Stated Meeting.
Congratulations Brothers and
thank you for your many
years of service and
dedication to your Lodge.

Our District Deputy Roy

Parsons and District
Instructor Al Alexandre
enjoyed some fine dinning
preceding the official visit.
The Lawn Stewards insist on
linen, china, stainless
flatware, and appropriate
stemware to make Stated
meals a special event.

Candlelight Degree
All present were impressed with the
candle light Fellow Craft Degree. The
candles added solemnity and
reverence to the ceremony. Candles
have been used in degree work since
the earliest recorded degrees in
England. The position of the candles
in each degree has its own special
meaning. The candles are a small part
of the changes that Lawn has made to
improve the overall initiatic
experience for the candidates. Lawn
also uses a vintage Lecture Chart
instead of slides or computer
generated images. Visitors and
members alike remarked how much
they enjoyed the degree. It was the
first candle light degree for Lawn.
Additionally,the degree team was
dressed black suits and ties.

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LAWN LODGE TO HOLD

PAGE

17

From the Editor

PAST MASTERS DEGREE

Dear Readers,
Mark your calendars! Lawn Lodge will hold a
Past Masters Degree on Saturday, September
27, at 2 p.m. IF you are an actual Past Master,
sitting Worshipful Master or a Warden you are
eligible to receive this degree. The degree fee
will be $25.00 . The Heart of Texas York Rite
College will host the Degree, while Big Country
Chapter Royal Arch Masons will confer the
degree. This degree is fun and informative, in
some jurisdictions this degree is conferred upon
all sitting Masters.
If you would like to receive this degree please
contact Charlie Martin at 325-665-5840 or Rick
Trogdon at 325-668-4724.

Ricks Collectibles
3556 North 6th Street Abilene 325-695-3700
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ALL DALLAS COWBOYS APPAREL
INCLUDING JERSEYS 50% OFF

You may have noticed some changes in this months

Beehive. We have begun accepting some support
from our local businesses in the form of advertising.
Since The Beehive is no longer sponsored by a
Masonic Lodge, it has become necessary to find
ways to offset the expensive cost of printing and
distribution. We have been very fortunate in the past
to have much of our printing donated, however the
cost of postage continues to rise and the last issue
cost nearly double the subscription price of $1.00
per issue. We are applying for Non-Profit status and
hope to be able to continue to bring you fraternal
news and items of interest in the future at a
reasonable price. If you would like to place an ad to
help support the printing and distribution of The
Beehive please call 325-668-4724. Businesses and
individuals may have advertising space. Business
card size ad is only $25.00. We need about a dozen
advertisers to break even. Thanks to all of you who
have placed ads this month. Summertime is a busy
time, Masonically speaking, so get ready for another
Beehive within the next few weeks.
Sincerely,
Rick Trogdon, Editor

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Mark Your Calendars

PAGE

18

DID YOU KNOW..

Abilene 559 Events

OPEN INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS
Abilene Lodge 559 will hold its annual Open
Installation of Officers at 11 am on Saturday, July
26. Family and friends are invited to attend. For
more information contact Robert Leonhart at 325829-4286.
ANNUAL DOVE HUNT
The Dove Hunt is on again! Get your guns ready,
and call in soon. This is a sell-out every year. The
Dove Hunt will be at John Tuchers Blue Horse
Ranch on September 6. Contact Ron Houghton at
325-668-1088 for reservations and information
Appendant Body Meetings
Abilene Assembly 86 Rainbow Girls: First and
Third Thursdays 7:00 p.m. At the Eastern Star
Temple, 3173 S. 27 Street
Abilene Shrine Club: First Monday each month at
the Abilene Shrine Club, meal at 6:30, meeting 7:30
p.m. (Open meeting, guests and non-Masons
welcome)
Big Country Scottish Rite Club: Quarterly, fifth
Monday of the month. Next meeting June 30, at the
Abilene Shrine Club, meal 6:30 p.m. Meeting 7:30
p.m. (Open meeting, guests and non Masons
welcome)
Big Country Chapter 310 Royal Arch Masons
and Big Country Council 192 Royal and Select
Masters: Fourth Tuesday each month at the
Stamford York Rite Center, Stamford.
Refreshments 6:30 p.m. And meeting 7:30 p.m.
Stamford Commandery 75 Knights Templar:
Second Thursday each month at the Stamford York
Rite Center. Refreshments 6:30 p.m. Meeting 7:30
p.m.
Allied Masonic Degrees E.C. Killian Sr. Council
#462 and Knight Masons James M. Wilson
Council #92: Second Saturday in February and
August, 9 a.m. at the Stamford York Rite Center.

Gus Loehr, a co-founder of

Rotary, was a Mason
(Lakeside Lodge No. 739).
One of the original Rotary
pins is pictured with the
Masonic symbol (Square &
Compasses) within the cog.
Though Paul Harris, one of the original founders
of Rotary, denied any Masonic involvement, he is
listed as a member of the Sons of Liberty Masonic
Lodge #301 as well as of the Bohemian Club in
Chicago. Many of the early Rotarians were
Masons and many charter Rotary clubs were held
in Masonic Halls and Temples.
In 1985, Rotary launched its PolioPlus program to
immunize all of the world's children against polio.
As of 2011, Rotary has contributed more than 900
million US dollars to the cause, resulting in the
immunization of nearly two billion children
worldwide.
As of 2006, Rotary has more than 1.2 million
members in over 32,000 clubs among 200
countries and geographical areas, making it the
most widespread by branches and second largest
service club by membership, behind Lions Club
International. The number of Rotarians has slightly
declined in recent years: Between 2002 and 2006,
they went from 1,245,000 to 1,223,000 members.
North America accounts for 450,000 members,
Asia for 300,000, Europe for 250,000, Latin
America for 100,000, Oceania for 100,000 and
Africa for 30,000.
To this day, many Masons are Rotarians and visa
versa.
So True it Hurts.
Being very courteous, a man approached a younger
woman inside the mall while doing some shopping.
' Excuse me,' he said. I can't seem to find my wife.
Can I talk to you for a couple of minutes?' The
woman, feeling a bit of compassion for this older
looking fellow, said, ' Sure, Do you know where your
wife might be?'' I have no idea', he said, ' But every
time I talk to a woman who is as good looking as
you, she usually appears out of nowhere.

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Lodge Meeting Times

Lodge Meetings
Abilene Lodge 559 Worshipful Master, Jody
Murillo , Secretary, Robert Leonhart
1265 North 2nd Street, Abilene,Third Floor
Stated Communication first Thursday at 7:30 p.m.
Meal at 6:30 p.m. Meals are currently served in the
second floor dinning room while the Stated meeting
is held on the third floor. The elevator is currently
in service. School of Instruction is held every
Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.

Lodge Meetings continued..

Lawn Lodge 1230 Worshipful Master Steve Kellar,
Secretary, Gary Galloway
Main Street, Lawn
Monthly Communication Forth Monday 7:30 p.m.
Meal at 6:30 p.m. School of Instruction Monday at
7:30 p.m.
Hamlin Lodge 958 Worshipful Master Jim Dixon
Secretary, Kenneth Williams
33 S.W. Second Street, Hamlin

Hobah Lodge 1394 Worshipful Master, Bobby

Woodard, Secretary, Robert Leonhart

Monthly Communication Second Monday 7:30 p.m.

Meal 6:30 p.m. School of Instruction - called.

1265 North Second Street, Abilene, Second Floor

Clyde Lodge 1056 Worshipful Master Harvey

Wheeler, Secretary Frank David

Stated Communication Second Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.

Meal at 6:30 p.m. School of Instruction every
Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.
John Sayles Lodge 1408 Worshipful Master,Roy
McClendon, Secretary, John Price.
3201 South

27th

Street, Abilene

Stated Communication Second Thursday 7:30 p.m.

Meal at 6:30 p.m. School of Instruction every
Monday at 7:30 p.m.
Merkel Lodge 710 Worshipful Master, Eddy
Harris, Secretary, Brad Banner.
136 Edwards Street, Merkel
Monthly Communication Forth Thursday (except
Nov and Dec) 7:30 p.m. Meal at 6:30 p.m. School
of Instruction - called.
Anson Lodge 575 Worshipful Master David
Hargrove, Secretary Charlie MArtin
932 North 12th Street, Anson
Monthly Communication Third Thursday 7:30 p.m.
Meal at 6:30 p.m. School of Instruction - called.

605 Oak Street, Clyde,

Monthly Communication First Thursday, Diner 6:30
and meeting 7:30 p.m.
Baird Lodge 522 Worshipful Master Mike Bell,
Secretary John Price
239 Market, Baird
Monthly Communication First Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.
Masonic Latin Phrases
In Hoc Signo Vinces - Knights Templar Motto in this sign you shall conquer.
Aude Vide, Tace - Hear, see, be silent

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