The Florida Mason

Page 1

The Official Newsletter of The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Florida

Volume 7, Issue 2

A Message From The Grand Master

Brethren,
his is a very special time of the year.
It is a time when families and friends
gather together to enjoy the company
of each other. It is a time to remember and
give thanks for the many Blessings which
each and every one of us has received.
I want to take this time to wish everyone a
Most Happy and Glorious Holiday Season
and a Very Happy and Prosperous New
MW James W. Ford, Year.
I want to thank everyone for your
Grand Master
support. As we complete the Official Visits, your support for the various charities and especially the First Ladys
Project has been overwhelming. At this time we have exceeded our goal to
replace the wheelchair van and the replacement will become a reality. I
especially want to thank Worshipful Master Lawrence Kunken and his wife
for their very generous personal donation. We are in the process of ordering the van which will be dedicated and presented to the residents on
Pilgrimage Day (March 21st). Please come out and join us on this very
special day.
This year the newly organized Board of Trustees for the Masonic
Home has been very active in their efforts to seek solutions to our financial problems and initiate new ways to increase the number of residents.
This is a year of transition and under the guidance and leadership, of the
Chairman, RW Steve Teal, and the dedication of each Board Member,
the Board is moving forward with new and innovative ideas to cut costs
and increase income and I want to commend them on their hard work and
dedication.
As the new year approaches, this is a very busy time for the Lodges.
As the Lodge year ends, we find ourselves involved with the elections of
Officers and their installation, as well as, the process of implementing the
plans and programs for the new year as established by the Worshipful
Master. Its a time to reflect on the past with the opportunity to better the
future.
Each newly elected Worshipful Master should have in his possession
a copy of the Committee Programs 2014 - 2015 booklet as printed by Grand
Lodge. This booklet contains the Grand Lodge Programs as outlined by the

Grand Lodge of Florida

220 North Ocean Street
Jacksonville, Florida 32202
P.O. Box 1020 32201
Tel: 800.375.2339
www.glflamason.org
Grand Lodge Officers
2013 - 2014
GRAND MASTER
M W James W. Ford
(Valrico)
DEPUTY GRAND MASTER
R W Steven P. Boring
(DeLand)
SENIOR GRAND WARDEN
R W Stanley L. Hudson
(Port St. Lucie)
JUNIOR GRAND WARDEN
R W Richard G. Hoover
(St. Petersburg)
GRAND TREASURER
M W Elmer G. Coffman, P.G.M.
(Orange Park)
GRAND SECRETARY
M W Richard E. Lynn, P.G.M.
(Jacksonville)
All submissions for future issues
of The Florida Mason
and
E-News submissions should be
sent to,
Larry Duff - 352-874-2164
ldduff@centurylink.net

Vol. 8, Issue 1

& Masonic Lifestyles

Summer 15
Submission Date
March 10, 2015
Print Date
May 5, 2015
E-News Submission Date
March 16, 2015
Distribution Date
April 1, 2016

Sincerely and Fraternally,

MWJames W. Ford
Grand Master

Expect Perfection - Settle For Excellence

A Message From The Deputy Grand Master

Seasons Greetings to the Craft!!

es, 'Tis the Season when we all

look forward to Thanksgiving ,
Christmas, the Grand Master's
last Official Visit, and a New Year fast
approaching. Gatherings with family and
friends and sharing with those less
fortunate are always happening. These
happy occasions tend to make us reflect
RW Steven P. Boring, upon our many blessings. Giving thanks
is almost automatic at this time of year.
Deputy Grand Warden
We tend to treat our Brothers with much
greater Brotherly Love and Kindness. We all suddenly become more
generous in our daily lives. Giving gifts and spreading Brotherly Love
is second nature at this time of year. Why is this so? Why do we let ourselves fall into this habit of living? I say we should not. We should all

feel this way, and act this way, each and every day all year round! Treating each other with Brotherly Love and Kindness should be our way of
life. Is that not the basis of our Masonic teachings?
I challenge each of you, my Brothers, to make those New Year's
resolutions. Yes make them, but remember them. Put those resolutions
in action in your daily life. Don't make them and then forget about them
on January 2nd. Let us each resolve to treat our Brothers and each
person we meet with Brotherly Love and Kindness. Giving and following our hearts every day, all year long.
May each of you have a very Merry Christmas
and a Happy New Year.
RW Steven P. Boring
Deputy Grand Master

A Message From The Senior Grand Warden

Next Issue Deadline:

The Florida Mason

respective State Chairmen. The booklet provides the information necessary

for each Lodge to comply with the Grand Lodge Programs and receive the
appropriate recognition by the State Chairmen and Grand Lodge. The booklet is an essential tool for the three principle officers in furthering their
knowledge, involvement, and experience with these programs and may be
used to answer questions regarding what we do as Masons. What we do as
Masons include programs, such as, Child I.D., Cardiac Research, Masonic
Home, Scholarships, and Youth Activities just to name a few of these programs. Other programs that are outlined in this booklet and provide guidance are the Masonic Leadership Training Program and the Masonic
Education program.
As our membership continues to decline, more and more Lodges are
considering and seeking information regarding Lodge mergers and/or
consolidations. It is important to realize that when a Lodge is unable to
operate as a Masonic Lodge (open and close, Initiate, Pass, and Raise
Master Masons, elect and install a full complement of officers, and support their community) it is time to merge or consolidate with another
Lodge. This, of course, has to be a lodge decision and a decision made by
the Members involved. RW Stan Hudson has held and will continue to
hold Town Hall Meetings around the State and I urge you to take advantage of the information provided at these meetings.
As Tracey and I travel around the State, we have found everyone
extending great hospitality and fellowship. The warmth and friendliness
has been outstanding and I cant thank you enough. I especially want to
thank the ladies who provide overwhelming support to the Brothers of this
Fraternity.
And now may God Bless each and every one of you and may we
always remember the many Blessings He has provided!

t the time of this writing I have

started a Town Hall Session on
how and why we need to merge
or consolidate Lodges. If you have
thoughts about merging or consolidating
your Lodge, now would be the time to
schedule a Town Hall Meeting. Please
check with your DDGM as to when a
meeting can be put together or if one has
already been scheduled.
RW Stanley L. Hudson,
We are fast approaching a fork in
Senior Grand Warden
the road, and we will all have to make a
decision as a Fraternity. Whether to continue down the same path, making the same decisions hoping for different results or make the turn to
the left, to that area of uncertainty and hopefully make a better future
for our Fraternity.
The decision is ours to make, I have had positive feedback from the
first Town Hall Meeting with many requests to hold more. Please take
this time to seriously think about the future of your Lodge and this Fraternity. Where do you want it to go from here?
One of the things I am looking to do in the future is to consolidate
the Districts, to make stronger Districts. Some Districts are already
strong and nothing will have to be done at this time. I am currently
looking at Districts that have less than a thousand members total in the
District. We have Districts that have 322 to 785 members. Our Official

Visits can be a hardship to our smaller Districts as well as to District

activities or fundraisers. This also will give us a chance to do corporate
rightsizing for the economic times we are under as well as for our
declining membership.
As Grand Lodge Officers, we are asked, What are we going to do
to fix our problems? I keep going back to What are you doing to do
to help fix the problem? As you point the finger our way, look to see
the other three pointing back to yourselves. NPDs are one of our
biggest problems, what have you done to slow this down or even try to
stop it? What are you doing in your communities to promote our
Fraternity? What are you doing to help yourselves? In todays times it
is okay to ask a worthy friend to join our Fraternity. Just think if we, all
39,281 of us, ask one friend to join and they did we would double our
membership in no time at all. Just something to think about, while we
are wondering what we are going to do to FIX our problems.
My Brothers, as the pendulum continues to swing, in a not so good
direction for our Fraternity, we need to hunker down and weather the
storm until the pendulum starts to swing the other way and hopefully
we will flourish again.
If there is anything that I can do, or any questions I can answer,
please do not hesitate to call or email me.
RW Stanley L. Hudson
Senior Grand Warden
Email:shudson34953@gmail.com Cell: (772)332-4956

A Message From The South

cannot thank the Craft enough for the honor they have bestowed upon
me when you elected me as your Junior Grand Warden. I am honored
to serve you in this office and will work for you throughout the
upcoming years. My commitment to you is communication, education
and trust. Your Grand Lodge Officers are committed to this also and are
working to earn just that.
There are many undertakings we are looking at and many of which
have been started and brought to us by you, the craft. Your Senior Grand
Warden is working on many of these and along with the assistance of
you, the craft, and I, we can make all these happen. The changes are
positive in nature for all of us. Some will be gradual, others will be
subtle. We all ask for your comments, support, and commitment. We are

here for you and we value your concerns and comments.

I have been blessed to travel our Grand State over the past several
years and meet and make many new friends. I value each and every one
of them. If I can be of assistance to you, please let me know. I am here
to serve you.
Fraternally,
RW Richard G. Hoover
Junior Grand Warden

RW Richard G, Hoover,
Junior Grand Warden

A Message From The Grand Secretary

sincerely hope all of you will have a GREAT HOLIDAY Season. I

reflect every day on the fact that I am so lucky to be able to serve as
Grand Secretary and share my life with so many great friends and
Brothers.
Your staff at your Grand Lodge Building remains busy with the various tasks at hand. The staff are dedicated and devoted to serving the Masons of Florida. I would like to thank them for this quality and thank them
for the service they provide.
Traveling across the state for District Meetings and other local events
presents the opportunity for fellowship and brotherly love. The Secretaries
and Treasurers Seminars are once again being held this year. The last one
was held in St. Petersburg at the Masonic Home. If you havent had an opportunity to attend one I urge you to take the time to participate. These
MWRichard E. Lynn, P.G.M., seminars are designed with the Lodge Secretary and Treasurer in mind;
Grand Secretary
however, any Brother will benefit from the information presented. The
proposed new membership system is presented and you have the opportunity to preview its new design. Please join us on December 13, 2014, in
Mariana and/or on February 29, 2015, in Naples. There is a requirement
for advance reservations. Contact the Grand Lodge Office for more in-

formation.
The Elected Grand Lodge Officers are communicating with the
Membership and attending functions across our Great Jurisdiction. Now
is the time for you to present your views on topics that face our Fraternity
and perhaps offer your opinions or solutions directly to your representatives. I can assure you they will listen and respond. Give them a chance
to address your concerns and I would hope you could also provide some
constructive criticism. Remember, if there is a problem a solution is the
best way to solve it.
I look forward to the opportunity to shake your hand and renew old
friendships and make some new friends during my travels.
We live in the finest country in the World and owe the thank you and
adoration to those who serve or have served in our military. As Most
Worshipful Sam Cowan always stated, Remember freedom is not free!
Remember: If your presence doesn't make an impact, your absence
won't make a difference.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
MW Richard E. Lynn, P.G.M.

A Message From The Grand Treasurer

Brethren,
he holiday season is upon us and the year is rapidly slipping away.
I do hope that 2014 has been a good year for you, your family and
your Lodge.
The Grand Masters visits have been a great success with wonderful
attendance and so many generous contributions to the several charities,
especially to the First Ladys Charity, which is replacing the wheelchair
van at the Masonic Home. What a wonderful choice Tracey made when
she picked that particular charity, as it is one the residents will continue
to enjoy for years to come.
As we have traveled across the state this year, we are seeing more and
more of the Florida Masonic License Tags. What a great way to promote
Masonry and make it known that you are proud to be a Mason, and
support your Masonic Home at the same time. If you do not have a
Masonic tag on your vehicle, please consider buying one when your tags
are up for renewal. For only a few dollars more you can upgrade to a
Masonic tag and even get a personalized one if you so desire.
The new Particular Lodge year is about to begin and I urge you to
support your Lodge, not only with your annual dues and contributions,
but with your attendance as well. Your Lodge needs you, your ideas, your
assistance and your support if we are to continue as a great Fraternity.
Your Lodge needs all the members to help, aid and assist if the Lodge is
to prosper. The worse thing we can do as Masons is nothing, for if we do
nothing, we will get nothing in return and the Lodge will die. Talk to
your members who are about to go NPD and explain to them the

T
MWElmer G. Coffman, P.G.M.
Grand Treasurer

benefits they will lose if they drop out of the Fraternity and the impact
the loss of membership will have on your Lodge. Try to get them to
regain the excitement and dedication they experienced when they were
going through their Degrees or when they were proceeding through the
chairs as Lodge Officers. Remind them that they are an important part
of the Lodge and they are missed when they are not in attendance. Also,
if they are having financial problems which would prevent them from
paying their dues, ensure they get the help they deserve.
We would like to extend an invitation to you, your family and your
Lodge to visit us here at the Grand Lodge building for a tour of the
building and a tour of our museum featuring The History of Florida
Masonry. We have many interesting items on display, some dating back
to the formation of our Grand Lodge and one particular item dating back
to 1715, two years prior to the formation of the Grand Lodge of
England. We have Grand Lodge personnel who would be happy to give
you a guided tour or you may browse through the museum on your own.
Once again, I would like to thank you for allowing me to serve as
your Grand Treasurer and work with a great line of Grand Lodge
Officers, a hard working Grand Lodge Staff and you, the Craft. May
God continue to bless our great country, our families, our fraternity and
our service personnel whereever they may be.
Fraternally,
MWElmer Coffman, P.G.M.
Grand Treasurer

Notes From The Editor

y Brothers all, Thank You, for your submissions to

The Florida Mason for this issue. Due to a computer
issue some photos and articles were lost and could not
be recovered for use. The computer issue has been corrected for
future submissions.

Requested are a few submission guidelines;

Expect Perfection Settle For Excellence

Page 2

Please do not send copies of newspaper articles. We request

the article be prepared in Word format. Photos - submitted in
.jpg, .gif or .png formats. Copied newspaper photos are generally
of very poor quality.
Also, please do not send links to newspaper or magazine
articles. Many now require a registration to view the article
or have security features that prohibit copying, AND we must
obtain permission to legally reprint any article that has run in
another magazine, or newspaper.

The Florida Mason

Printed articles submitted that require a retype by the editor

may or may not be used. This is dependent on time permitting of
the editor to prepare the article for publication use.
The text of submissions has not been an issue, but the
encoding of .pdf files and photos included in some submitters
articles is, please check that your submission can be edited.
When titling your article, please limit it to a few words, not
a long sentence. The title should get your reader interested in
your article, not telling them the entire contented of the article.
One last item, if you know someone who is not receiving
The Florida Mason, it may be their address is incorrect, please
have them check with their local Lodge Secretary.
Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy,
Healthy New Year.

Volume 7, Issue 2

Working Together

t was a beautiful Friday morning and I was down in the Keys enjoying everything
they have to offer. With a phone call, that all changed quickly. A close friends
wife called to tell me her husband (56 years of age) had just passed. She was so
grief stricken and was asking me what she should do! Giving advice as best I could,
it never dawned on me that she was not home in Pensacola.
She and her husband were in Bonifay visiting relatives. It was not until Saturday, on my way home that I found out. A decision had already been made for burial
arrangements, in Bonifay. She was requesting a Masonic Funeral as well as an Eastern Star Service. Now came the panic of arranging this to happen in just two days,
and me on a 12-hour journey home. First a call to District 5, District Deputy Grand
Master RW Roy Cooke. He began calling Brothers in Bonifay. Next I called the
Memorial team for Districts one and two.
They already had a service at the same time but would get back to me. Within
the hour RWJimmy Lindt was calling saying he would make the 100 mile drive
and be honored to do so. A call back to Roy to ask permission to do the service in
his District and things were at least going in the right direction. The number of
Masons was questionable due to short time frame, but at least it was going to
happen. Now for the Eastern Star. No need to worry there, as the ladies was already
in contact with the Bonifay chapter and they were in control.
Monday arrived and a Brother, my wife and I drove over for the service. There
were at least 20+ Masons and an equal number of Eastern Star Ladies there.
A special thanks to the Brothers from District 5 and to all the Brothers from
Pensacola area that also made the drive. Everything turned out so well and the
service was wonderful.
At a reception later, his wife came up to me and said to my wife and something
that I will cherish forever. She said I am so happy my husband was a Mason, if not
I would never have met you and your wife, and the so many wonderful people that
have come into my life. And then she hugged us.
My Brothers and Sisters is this not the Grand Masters Message? Be there for
each other to share the happiness and the sorrow. Set an example for others to follow, be a leader.
In Friendship, Morality, and Brotherly Love;
RW Harry Boyette, DDGM District No. 2

A Sad Tale
by RW Harry Boyette, DDGM, District 2 Sad Tale

e all have attended many Masonic Funerals. It is with this that I take time
to share an experience with you.

Recently a Worshipful Master passed away. He was active throughout the 1st
and 2nd district and will be sorely missed. There were over 40 Master Masons attending and he received the respect and affection he deserved. But that is only the
first part of this story. He did the right thing.
Another Past Master passed away just a week later. He also was a great friend
and Brother and was also very active. As his illness was progressing he advised
family members not to worry, that his Masonic Brothers would take care of him.
I can only imagine what he was thinking at the time, but the family thought the Lodge
would handle everything. After his demise, a call was made from family for the
Lodge to take over. After an explanation of our role, the family was very upset.
They said they would get back with us. That day has not come. This Master Mason
did not do the right thing and as a result things turned out poorly.
Here are a few helpful rules.
1. The Lodge of the deceased Brother should be notified as soon as possible
and a request made for Ceremonies of the Craft.
2. If the family objects, even though it was the wish of a Brother to have
Masonic Services, the Masonic Service will not be held.
3. The Brother must be in good standing, this means current in his dues and not
under suspension.
4. Fellow Crafts or Entered Apprentices are not entitled to Masonic Funerals
nor may they Unite with Master Masons in the Service, however they may attend.
There are many other rules and regulations pertaining to the service and can be
read in the Florida Masonic Monitor. We, as Masons, need to explain to our loved
ones exactly the role the Masons will play upon our demise and our wishes to have
or not have Masonic Rights.

FFA Presentation at Lake Butler

Lodge No. 52
by Bro. Ted Barber
even Union County Future Farmers of America made presentations
to the members of Lake Butler Lodge No. 52, on Monday
afternoon, May 5, 2014. Their
presentations are designed to
educate the public as to the
best practices for land management. Each student had a L to R: Ted Barber, Leaman Alvarez, Holly Tucker, Colan
particular subject that is im- Coody, Kelsey Thornton, Noah Wright, Morgan Eddy,
portant to the consideration Bruce Dukes, Taylor Wilkins, Haley Libby, Lane Underhill
of what would be the best and Kenneth Clyatt.
practice, for example, in harvesting timber. The students brought out the pros and cons of clear cutting verses
selective cutting of trees. The group is making ten presentations and they are
improving their talks as they progress with each presentation. This is an excellent
educational and public relations program and these students make a great first
impression because they are well prepared and their FFA Jackets give them a
professional appearance.

Volume 7, Issue 2

Gulf Beach Lodge

No. 347, Selects and
Sponsors Teacher of
the Year

ulf Breeze Lodge No. 347 was proud to

select and sponsor Mrs. Dina Pagonis as
Teacher Of The Year. Worshipful Alan
Cox presented Mrs. Pagonis with a check for
$250.00 dollars to assist with the cost of needed
school supplies not covered by the county school
board. Mrs. Dina Pagonis is a teacher for ESE
Program at Gulf Breeze Middle School. Mrs. Dina Pagonis has served students with disabilities
at Gulf Breeze Middle School for 10 years as a member of the support staff and continues to serve
as a certified ESE teacher since 2010. Gulf Breeze Lodge No. 347 is proud to sponsor Mrs.
Pagonis and wish her all the best in the coming school year.

Cherry Hill & Bradford Lodges Team Up

to Clean the Suwannee
River

hanks to all. The entire community came out and

helped clean up the Suwannee River. Several groups
participated and worked on different areas. Cherry Hill
Masonic Lodge No. 12 of Fort
White and Branford Lodge No. 130
picked up 135 pounds of trash along
a 4.9 mile section from the boat
ramp by Royal Springs down river to
the boat ramp North of Branford, Ft.
Macomb ramp. Twenty three people
participated (11 on the water) with 5
boats.
Outstanding food, hamburgers,
hotdogs, Nettles sausage and lots of trimmings were
prepared and devoured. Special thanks are offered
to Dee and Chick Whitfield who hosted our
rendezvous site at their home on the beautiful
Suwannee River. Don Cadrain was our event coordinator, and he thanked everyone for their support
and the pride they have in our community.

Orange Lodge No. 36 Raises Funds to

Send Scouts to Camp

range Lodge No.

36 in Apopka ,
reached out and
contacted Boy Scout
Troops No. 211 and No.
601 to offer assistance in
helping send needy/worthy scouts to summer
camp. Orange Lodge No.
36 raised and donated
$500.00 per troop for a
total of $1000.00.
It was reported back
to the Lodge that 100% of
the Boy Scouts of both troops were able to attend Camp.
Donna McNally, Advancement Chairperson BSA said, We are proud of our Scouts, this
donation will go a long way towards helping young men.
In the photo, are several members of both troops as well as adults: in middle row (l-r) Jim
Wylam, Treasurer Orange 36; Apopka Mayor Joe Kilsheimer and Commissioner Sam Ruth. The
adults in the back row (l-r) are, Donna McNally Advancement Chairperson BSA, John Larson,
Troop 211; P.M. Stuart Orgaz, Orange 36; WM Jon Vitale, Orange Lodge No. 36; SW
Richard Carter, Orange 36.

Past Master Roy L. Wingate, Jr. 65 Years

a Freemason

Past Masters and Widows Night Ceremony

was held on Nov 1, 2014, to recognize and
honor Past Worshipful Masters and the
Widows of deceased Masonic Brothers of Callahan
Masonic Lodge No. 32 . Past Master Roy L.
Wingate, Jr. was paid special tribute and presented
a 65 Year Lapel Pin and Certificate from the Grand
Lodge F&AM of Florida by Will Payne, presiding
Worshipful Master of Callahan Lodge. Brother
Roy Jr became a Mason when his own dad, Roy L to R: Worshipful Master Will Payne and
L. Wingate, Sr, was the Worshipful Master back in Past Master Roy L. Wingate, Jr.
1948. Brother Roy Jr. Wingate was Initiated on
March 3, 1948; Passed to Degree of Fellowcraft on
July 26, 1948; and Raised a Master Mason on August 26, 1948 by his father Roy Sr. Worshipful Roy
Wingate, Jr. served as Worshipful Master of Callahan Lodge in 1965.

The Florida Mason

Page 3

Gulf Beach Lodge No. 291

Masons: Not A Secret Society,
Presents College Scholarship Award But A Society Of Secrets

ulf Beach Masonic

Lodge No. 291, located
in Madeira Beach, presented its annual Albert T. and
Tupper MacMillan Scholarship,
supported by the Ernest J. Freeman Jr. Memorial Scholarship
Fund. The Scholarship was presented to Ms. Harlie Ireland a
graduating Senior at Keswick
Christian School in Seminole.
Ms. Ireland will be attending College in the fall at St. Pete College where she will begin her studies in
nursing. Ms. Ireland has been extremely active in service projects in the community
including Habitat for Humanity and the Salvation Army. Ms. Ireland is a member of
the National Honor Society, female student government representative for the
Senior Class, a member of the Music Honor Society, teachers assistant, AWANA
leader in training, and a St. Petersburg Juniorette. Ms. Ireland has been a part of the
varsity soccer team, varsity track team, Latin Club, and varsity Band.
Ernest J. Freeman Jr., Master of Gulf Beach Lodge in 1984, had a vision. This
vision was to create a scholarship program that would grant deserving local students
funds to assist in their college tuition. It was also his vision to create a program which
would be self perpetuating thereby being a source of assistance well into the future.
After the passing of Worshipful Ernest Freeman the Scholarship program was
renamed in his memory and has helped support four college students each year since
its inception. The annual Scholarship winner receives $2,000.00 to assist in their
College or University expenses.

What Masonry Is To Me
by S. Kenneth Baril, P.M. Temple Lodge No. 16, A F & A.M., Cheshire, CT, Siloam
Masonic Lodge No.399
any times since I became a member of this Grand Fraternity, I have in
retrospective moments, asked myself, why I am proud to be a Mason and
I dwell upon those things that Masonry has brought before me. The feelings of warmth, friendship, and potential comfort in times of distress are always with
me, yet they seem to appear most readily in Lodge.
I think that Masonry is many things to many people, and we all take from
Masonry those things from within us that are weaker and more vulnerable; it is a
kind of storehouse of moral fiber, as well as a refuge from a mad and seething world.
To be a Masonic Brother affords a time when all is tranquil, when all is at peace, and
in a world of turmoil, this aspect of our Brotherhood is most rewarding. In a society
in which man feels so alone, so alienated, it is comforting to be with others who share
the same feelings. However, more importantly, to carry those feelings away from
Lodge, and practice them in my daily living, and in dealings with all people at all
times, to make Brothers of all men, for we are, after all, Brothers in a larger and
broader sense. I know full well that these noble aims are impossible to achieve at all
times, but Masonic teachings have made me fully aware that we should at least attempt to live by these precepts whether they are fully achieved or not. In fact, by their
pursuit alone, successful or not, we have become better men; in effect, become better Masons.
Since the coin has two sides, what do I bring my Lodge in return for that which
I obtain? My monetary dues are so mundane and insignificant, it matters for little in
the larger realm. I do what I can for my Lodge and my Brothers when I can do them,
and I do it readily and without hesitation, without thought of repayment in any
fashion, and I know, that if called upon again and again, I would perform unstintingly
to the best of my ability. That, I think, is the essence of Masonic teachings. We take
from our fraternity and we give back; it is a sort of unending and open-ended life of
ethics that renews itself as surely as the sun rises every day.
Frequently, I ask myself, what does Masonry do for my community? This is a
question sometimes asked by town folks and it may be harder and more nebulous to
answer. The presence of a Masonic Lodge in any community is an asset, and most
people realize this. The teachings of our order do not lie strewn about the LodgeRoom Floor when the Master has closed his Lodge; they are not discarded until the
next meeting to be picked up again like comfortable old clothes. They go back into
the community in the minds and hearts of all the Brothers, and in so being disseminated, the teachings of Masonry do indeed bring benefit to the community of which
it is a part. Who is to say, that a certain flower in a bouquet does not impart a particularly wonderful aroma to the bouquet of which it is a part, without whose presence
the scent might be much less inviting? So it is with the Masonic Lodge in any community. It enhances the aroma of communal living in a subtle but definite fashion.
In fact, I feel that this contribution may well far outweigh the community events
in which our Lodges regularly participate. Events come and go, but friendship and
reverence, for both our Creator and fellow man, are as permanent as the stars in
heaven.
First, I think we must realize from the outset, that the Masonic order is primarily interested in the welfare and well being of its own; after all, that is the primary
and most noble aim of any fraternal organization. If it were not for this feeling of selfinterest and self-perpetuation, where would any fraternal organization garner its
strengths and foundation?
Lastly, I ask myself again, just once more, why did I become a Mason? I think
my answer is much like the mountain climbers, paraphrased perhaps, but applicable
to a degree; because Masonry was there and I felt its call, to become, as we all would
want to be, a better man, a more compassionate brother to all my brothers, and a
more deserving servant to the Grand Architect of the Universe. What more could any
man want to be, or ever hope to be?

Florida Masonic Tag Approved

By The Legislature
and Available!
The code to purchase:
Freemasons Tag FQR

Page 4

by Doug Kelly, Gazette correspondent Published: May 1, 2014

learwater Gazette - I didnt quite know what to expect when entering a local Masonic Lodge
about four years ago. After years of watching the barrage of TV documentaries about the
mysterious Masons and frequently driving by some of the Lodges, my curiosity peaked. I
wondered if it was indeed a secret society attempting to orchestrate history or more aptly a Fraternity of men aimed at individual development and helping people.
My first Lodge visit engulfed me with a twang of mystique and intrigue, but not in the
malevolent sense of a haunted house or a far-out, Ripleys-Believe-It-or-Not experience. Masonic
symbols did adorn the walls, and the meeting main smacked of a ritualistic site, but again
nothing appeared to be offensive or alarming.
Every Lodge member I met treated me as an equal, so if any influential political or business
leaders were present it never became apparent. As it turned out, no conversations about politics are
allowed in a Lodge, and meetings arent for business networking. You must believe in some form
of a spiritual God - atheists are barred from membership - but no talk of religion takes place. In a
nutshell, Masonry, also known as Freemasonry, is dedicated to the Brotherhood of man under the
Fatherhood of God.
To become a Mason, hopefuls must contact a Lodge in their Community or be recommended
by a Mason. I filled out an application, underwent an interview and a home visit by a Membership Committee, and had a background investigation before the Lodge Members (referred to
internally as Brothers) voted on whether to accept me.
Once vetted, I received mentoring to help complete three degrees of Masonry - Entered
Apprentice, Fellowcraft and Master - that taught me about the organizations history and
foundation. This included the origin of the symbols that began with King Solomons Temple and
various spoken and unspoken methods of identifying another Mason outside the lodge.
But what about this business of being a secret society? If the objective of Masons centered on
remaining a secret to the public, it would be a colossal failure. Masonic Lodges - there are more
than a dozen in Pinellas County alone - clearly identify themselves as such. Masons regularly wear
identifying shirts and hats in public as well as put bumper stickers on their cars to display their
membership; endless books and TV shows depict Masonry; and Googling the word Masons will
reveal millions of hits.
The Masons are not a secret society, but more aptly a society of secrets. These internal secrets
are ritualistic in nature, and theres absolutely nothing sinister about them - and no true Mason will
divulge them.
Lodges sponsor plenty of activities open to the public. Im a member of Clearwater Lodge 127,
and non-Masons can attend a buffet breakfast every Saturday morning, watch a movie while
munching on hot dogs every other Friday night, and attend outings such as bowling and golf tournaments. Visitors can tour the Lodge and see the meeting hall.
Masonrys Foundation reaches back to King Solomon in 970 BC and is steeped in fascinating history such as the Crusades and Templar Knights more than 700 years ago. It developed in
medieval Europe as a guild for stonemasons and expanded as a social organization. The first Grand
Lodge was erected in London in 1717, and regular Lodges sprouted in the U.S. beginning in the
early 1700s. Lodges are grouped into Districts, with each state having its own Grand Lodge, which
in Florida is in Jacksonville. Clearwater Lodge 127 is in District 20 and received its Charter on
January 20, 1892.
Some Masons indeed have been influential Members of society and have made contributions
to world and U.S. History. That list includes nine signers of the Declaration of Independence,
13 signers of the Constitution, George Washington and 13 other Presidents. Other notable past
and present Brothers of fame: Winston Churchill, Arnold Palmer, Davy Crockett, Ty Cobb, Clark
Gable, Douglas MacArthur, Charles Lindbergh, Mozart, John Wayne, Eddy Arnold and J.C.
Penney. But, like me, the overwhelming majority of Brothers are everyday people, totaling more
than three million worldwide and two million in North America alone.
Women can join associated Masonic organizations such as Eastern Star. For teens theres
DeMolay (for boys) and Rainbow Girls. Other Masonic Groups include the Shriners, who
operate a network of hospitals for children where theres a never a fee for treatment. The Freemasons of North America contribute more than $2 million to charitable causes every day.
My experience as a Brother, like the building of a matchstick house, began as a thousand
scattered pieces, and it gradually evolved into an exhilarating and fulfilling path through the
history and lore of Masonry that continues to this day. As I said, all it takes to become a Mason is
to look up your nearest Lodge. Clearwater Lodge 127 is located at 705 S. Hercules Ave. Call
(727) 447-5161 or visit clearwater127.com

It's Great to Be a Grotto Member

Article by WBruce Ward, P.M. Past Monarch; Photo courtesy of WMatthew B. Winters, P.M.
Submitted by RWWilliam B. Billy Garrett, Jr., PM, P.D.D.G.M. - Zone 6 Chairman PR & Publicity
he Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets
of the Enchanted Realm, whose
subordinate bodies are the GROTTOES, is an organization by and for Master
Masons.
Its purpose is to bring a quality of
SYMPATHY and GOOD FELLOWSHIP
into life, not only to Member Prophets, but
to everybody. An atmosphere of good, clean
fun and frolic prevails at all times.
While in no way connected with Masonry Proper, its Membership is restricted
In the photo, is our JGW RW Richard G. Hoover,
absolutely and exclusively to Master Masons
Bro. Nils Peter Bengston (Dist. 21 Child ID Chairman),
in good standing.
Thomas W McVeigh, Monarch, RW Roy E. Terepka
Although it is an organization for
DDGM 21st Masonic District and fellow
good wholesome fund and frolic, it also has
Prophets of Selama Grotto.
its serious side. Its slogan is GOOD
FELLOWSHIP, and in contact with our fellow man, this principle is exemplified to a Marked
Degree.
The Humanitarian Foundation, founded in 1949 by the GROTTO'S Supreme Council, has
two important projects. First, research for the cause and cure of Cerebral Palsy. Secondly, Dental
Care for Children with Special Needs.
The official emblem of the Grotto is a Black Fez with a Mokanna Head in the center and the
name of the wearer's Grotto.
Recently Selama Grotto presented a donation to the 21st Masonic District.

The Florida Mason

Volume 7, Issue 2

Grand Lodge Scholarship Recipients

Gulf Beach Lodge No. 291

presents Honorary Membership
to the Grand Master

he Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Florida awarded
10 high school seniors in our state $1000 scholarships in April 2014 for the coming
academic year. The recipients were selected from among almost 100 applications and
essays submitted by students from throughout Florida.

by RW Howard W. Knapp PM, PDI, PDDGM, Secretary Gulf Beach Lodge No. 291
n Sunday, June 22nd, at the Masonic Home Board
of Trustees Meeting, MW James W. Ford was
presented an Honorary Membership to Gulf Beach
Lodge No. 291. The presentation was made by Bro. Travis
Palladeno (Senior Warden) with the assistance from Gulf
Beach Lodge Members Bro. Steve Nelson (Junior Warden),
Bro. David Neville (Junior Steward); W Derryl ONeal,
W Donald Harriott, W Ed Villiaume, and RW Rick (L-R) JWSteve Nelson (JW);
Hoover (Honorary). Besides the presentation of the
SWTravis Palladenoand
Honorary Membership the Grand Master of Masons of
MW James W. Ford,
Florida was presented a $100.00 donation for the Grand
Grand Master
Masters Charity and $100.00 donation for the 1st Ladys
project.
Gulf Beach Lodge is located on the Gulf Beaches, in the beautiful City of Madeira
Beach, and has been a driving force in the Community for 65 years. The Lodge is proud to
have the Grand Master as an Honorary Member and wishes him a successful year ahead.

Recipients for 2014 include:

Nitram Lodge No.

188 Presents
2014 Scholarship

Alexandra C. Brookins,
Homeschooled,
Monticello, FL

Mallory DeMotts, Gulf Breeze

High School,
Gulf Breeze, FL

Sydney K. Devane,
Duncan U. Fletcher High School,
Jacksonville, FL

Kayla L. Grantham, Keystone

Heights High School,
Keystone Heights, FL

Anne C. Griffin,
Winter Springs High School,
Winter Springs, FL

Paul A. Johnson,
Barron Collier High School,
Naples, FL

Kimberly V. Nguyen,
Golden Gate High School,
Naples, FL

Sarah O. Schore,
West Port High School,
Ocala, FL

Bailey H. Trzcinski,
Gulf Breeze High School,
Gulf Breeze, FL

by Matthew Winters, PM, Treasurer

itram Lodge No. 188 F.&A.M.,

WScott Drake, P.M.; Ms. Lindsey Settlemire;
presented its annual Royal K.
RW David Henderson, PM, P.D.D.G.M.
Eden - Memorial Scholarship to
and RH (2014 Worshipful Master)
Ms. Lindsey Settlemire a Senior at
William C. Sundquist.
Dunedin High School in Dunedin. Ms.
Settlemire will be attending college in the
fall at Florida Southern. Her major will be Sports Communications.
Nitrams scholarship is named after Royal Roy K. Eden . Bro. Eden was a Honorary Past Master and Chaplain for many years at Nitram Lodge No. 188 in St. Petersburg,
Florida. He was devoted to supporting students throughout the Tampa Bay area, not just in
his hometown, and assisted in many ways in the community. Notably a park was named
after him in St. Petersburg due to his volunteer efforts with the St. Petersburg Police Department. Regrettably, Roy passed away in 2009. His zeal for the Fraternity and guidance
is greatly missed by all.

----- NO PHOTOS AVAILABLE ----Anna R. Wirrick,

A. Crawford Mosely High School,
Lynn Haven, FL

Ms. Evangeline M. Borngesser,

Bartram Trail High School,
St. Johns, FL, was also selected to receive a
scholarship but elected, instead, to accept an
appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy.

Brother Bill Beckett Receives 55

Membership Awards

Ornan Masonic Lodge Honors

Williston Red Devils

rother Bill Beckett of Mokanna Lodge

No. 329 waited a long time to go
through the Scottish Rite Degrees and
was a candidate for the Orlando Valley Reunion October 13th and 14th. The Brothers of
Mokanna Lodge No. 329 surprised Brother
Beckett during the reunion by presenting him
with his 55 Year Membership and Certificate.
The presentation was made by MW Dale
Goehrig, Past Grand Master and current
Sovereign Grand Inspector General, and
RW Chet King, Past D.D.G.M. and
current Personal Representative to the SGIG,
along with the Members of the Lodge attending the reunion, most of whom where in
costume for the 30th Degree!

Myron Thurston III Assistant Director

of Development and Communications
Masonic Medical Research Laboratory

he Officers and Members of Ornan Masonic Lodge No.117 honored the Williston
High School Red Devil State Champion Baseball Team prior to the visit of District
Deputy Grand Master Randy B. Strong and the 15th Masonic District Committeemen.
After a nice dinner and prior to opening of the regular business meeting the team was
invited into the Lodge Room. After the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Prayer, Worshipful Master Glen Lee Garner gave a short speech in regards to the community involvement of Ornan Lodge, and a description of what Freemasonry is and proceeded on behalf
of Ornan Lodge to congratulate the team and Coaches for a Job Well done.
Lodge Secretary, Bill Catsulis read a Resolution of Thanks, recognizing each player by
name and the coaching staff for its team work, dedication to each other, and bringing great
honor to themselves, their families and our Community. The Worshipful Master then presented each player and Coach with a crisp brand new two dollar bill to commemorate this
night.
Ornan Lodge was presented a picture of the team, a signed bat and ball. All members
and guests present were directed to line up on the South Side of the lodge and a Handshake
line was formed and each player was thanked by each present on their way out of the Lodge
Room. The assembled Masons took up a collection during the meeting and $300.00 was
raised and donated to the Williston Red Devil Booster Club to help with the costs of Championship Rings.

ince 1960, the Cardiac Research Institute at Masonic Medical Research Laboratory molecular genetics, stem cell research and organ bioengineering. During their tenure,
(MMRL) has recognized the importance of encouraging talented young men and students gain an appreciation for how scientific problems pertaining to medical disease are
women to pursue a career in science or medicine. The individuals selected through the approached and examined, and experience the day to day running of a cutting-edge research
highly competitive application process for 2014 are Collette Bora (Worchester Polytechnic facility. After completing the program, they will have gained knowledge and practical
Institute), Elizabeth-Anne Carbone (Cornell University), Neesha Desai (University of experience in physiological, biochemical, molecular and pharmacological methodologies
Rochester), Carly Dziekan (St. Lawrence University), Erica Freund (Wake Forest Univer- and be better prepared to make important career decisions.
sity), Georg Gussak (Rutgers University), Brian LaGrant (Cornell University), Ruben
The summer session closed with a scientific symposium presented by the students on
Mathew (Cornell University), Heather McManus (Utica
Wednesday, July 30 from 9am to 12pm, followed by an
College), Jennifer Sexton (Union College), Ashley Spina
awards luncheon honoring the Summer Fellows and local
(Cornell University), Steven Toffel (Albany College of
sponsors at the Laboratory. Funding for this years
Pharmacy and Health Sciences), Vaischnav Vigneswaran
program has been provided by The Boilermaker Charity
(University at Buffalo) and Tanya Zeina (Boston College).
Bib Program, Drs. Atul and Amita Butala, the Cortese
These talented Fellows will join a distinguished group of
Family Fund, Dr. Ihor and Hiie Gussak, International
over 400 gifted students who have participated in the
Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local No. 43, M&T
MMRL Summer Fellowship Program.
Bank, Dr. Thomas Mathew, Dr. Theodore and Melva Max,
The 10 week program permits students direct
Dr. Ashok and Shilpa Patel, Slocum-Dickson Foundation,
involvement in research projects, under staff guidance, in
Bredablick Lodge 880, F & AM and Utica Lodge No. 47,
the fields of experimental cardiology, molecular biology, Fourteen Participate in the MMRL Summer Fellowship Program F & AM.

Volume 7, Issue 2

The Florida Mason

Page 5

From the Classroom to Life-Saving

Research Masonic Medical Research

New Study Reports Brain Sodium

Channels in Heart Linked to Sudden Cardiac Death

Lab Teams with Utica College for Summer

Fellowship Program

tica Colleges partnership with the Masonic Medical Research Lab (MMRL) creates an
invaluable learning opportunity for students. The MMRL allows students of biology,
physiology, molecular biology, chemistry, medicine and other life sciences to participate
in research under staff guidance. By working closely with Utica College and other colleges nationwide, the program provides the perfect bridge from learning in the classroom to hands-on
experience in a biomedical research institute.
The Summer Fellowship Program gives talented students
of the life sciences the chance to experience the operation of an internationally -renowned scientific
research institute, said Dr. Daniel
Barr, assistant professor of biochemistry at Utica College. We are
very fortunate that some of our students get to work alongside these
accomplished scientists and see
firsthand how medical and scientific techniques can be used to better understand disease and
to find new treatments and cures.
Recent projections of significant shortages of medical researchers by the turn of the century have heightened the
need for programs such as MMRLs Summer Fellowship
Program in which students can become acquainted with research and the opportunities
available in the biomedical sciences. By pairing the experience students garner from the
program with the extremely personalized
training and innovative curriculum at UC,
students are better prepared for the field of
their choice.
Heather McManus, who recently graduated from UC with a bachelors degree in biochemistry, participated in the program this
summer.
Heather started with us in January as part of her senior research project at UC and continued with us through our Summer Fellowship Program. She has been isolating DNA from patient samples and looking for mutations in a gene that regulates the transient outward potassium
current in heart cells. Alterations in this current are thought to contribute to Sudden Cardiac
Death syndromes including Brugada Syndrome and Early Repolarization Syndrome, said Dr.
Matthew Betzenhauser, Assistant Director of Research and Director of the Summer Fellowship
Program at MMRL.
The project was initiated through an ongoing collaboration between Daniel Barr at UC and
Hector Barajas-Martinez and Dan Hu at the MMRL. Drs. Barr, Barajas and Hu have collaborated in the past on a project that yielded a publication in the Public Library of Science, Betzenhauser said.
As the only major biomedical research facility in the greater Utica and Mohawk Valley
area, the MMRL has long considered it an important responsibility to provide undergraduate research opportunities for interested students. A major component of that effort is the MMRL
Summer Research Fellowship that Heather also participated in. Thus far, more than 400 students have participated in the program since its inception in 1960. The program is fully funded
by community members, businesses and Masonic Lodges.
The Masonic Medical Research Laboratory was established in 1958 as a biomedical research facility. Since its inception, it has gained international prominence for its achievements
and contributions to science and medicine. The MMRL's current focus is in the areas of: Experimental Cardiology, Molecular Genetics, Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Technology.
The biochemistry major at UC gives students a solid understanding of the fundamental
building blocks of life, preparing them for a fulfilling career in a field on the leading edge of
human knowledge.
Supported by exceptional faculty and advanced instrumentation, the program is modeled on
a course of study recommended by the American Chemical Society and places significant emphasis on the study of the molecules and reactions of life processes. It is intended for students
who wish to study and work in a discipline at the interface of biology and chemistry.

research study published in the July issue Journal of the American College
of Cardiology reports that genetic mutations in a neuronal sodium channel
gene are associated with inherited sudden cardiac death syndromes, including the Brugada syndrome. The study, performed at the Cardiac Research Institute at
Masonic Medical Research Laboratory (MMRL) in Utica, NY, included physicians
and scientists from throughout the world who referred patients with life-threatening
cardiac arrhythmias to the MMRL for genetic screening.
The Brugada syndrome is associated with an inherited irregular heart rhythm. In
some cases the first warning sign is sudden cardiac death. The syndrome affects
approximately 5 in 10,000 individuals. The MMRL, one of
the top genetic screening centers in the world devoted to
inherited sudden cardiac death syndromes, identified the
majority of genes responsible for the Brugada syndrome.
The MMRL works with families who have tragically lost
someone to this insidious disease, testing children, siblings
and other relatives to see if they are also at risk.
Prior to this discovery, a genetic defect could be identified in only 35% of Brugada syndrome patients. The new
gene associated with the syndrome, called SCN10A,
accounts for an additional 17 percent, thus greatly improving our ability to identify
a susceptibility gene to over 50 percent of affected index patients. SCN10A encodes
a sodium channel previously thought to be associated exclusively with the brain and
nervous system. This and other recent studies suggest that it is also present in the
heart and when defective can result in life-threatening heart rhythm disorders.
Dr. Dan Hu, the lead author on this study, said these findings provide important
insights into the pathophysiology of these syndromes as well as new targets for
therapy.
Dr. Charles Antzelevitch,
Executive Director and Director
of research of the MMRL, and
senior author of the study added,
The identification of SCN10A
as a major susceptibility gene for
Brugada syndrome greatly
enhances our ability to identify
patients and family members who
are at risk. These findings also
open the door to delineation of
the role of other presumably
neuronal sodium channels in the
electrical function of the heart in
both health and disease.
Although a susceptibility gene can now be identified in over 50 percent of
affected index patients, in nearly 50 percent the culprit gene remains unknown.
A negative study does not mean you dont have the disease; it just means that the
genetic marker cannot be identified, said Antzelevitch. He added that a great deal
of research remains to be done to identify the other genes involved.

Giving Back
by Matthue Goldstein, Secretary, North Star Lodge No. 405

ressed in their Lodge shirts, the Brothers of North Star Lodge No. 405 have
started what is hoped to be a long tradition of lending their support to the
LifeNet4Families Cooperative Feeding Program in Broward County. These
selfless Brothers wash dishes, set up and breakdown the dining room and help feed
the homeless for several hours on their Saturday mornings. With numbers exceeding
over 150, men, women and children from all ages, races and creeds line up to get a
hot meal. The hours, sweat and exhaustion are nothing when compared to the
appreciation these Brothers receive from those less fortunate, coupled with the
knowledge that they are fulfilling their Masonic Values of Charity and Brotherhood.

Bro. Julian Vives,

Bro. Claudio Kletsel,
W Patrick Know,
Bro. Gary Hoste,
RW Walter Flemke and
Bro. Patrick Neal

Bradford Lodge & 10th Masonic

District Present Funds To JROTC

n September 22, 2014, W

Scott Roberts representing
Bradford Lodge No. 35 and
RW Leaman Alvarez representing
the 10th Masonic District Association
presented checks to the JROTC
program of Bradford High School at
Bradford Lodge in Starke, Florida.
Accepting the checks were Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Parker and
Cadet Major Ivey Padgett of Bradford
High School.
The 10th Masonic District Association represents Pine Hill No. 9 in
Brooker, Bradford No. 35 in Starke,
Lake Butler No. 52 in Lake Butler,
Dawkins No. 60 in Macclenny, Raiford L to R: W Scott Roberts, Cadet Lt Col. Thomas Parker,
No. 82 in Raiford, Sanderson No. 122 Cadet Major Ivey Padgett, and RW Leaman Alvarez
in Sanderson, Lawtey No. 189 in
Lawtey, and Baldwin No. 217 in Baldwin. The Cadets, Brothers, as well as
family members enjoyed a few snacks before the presentation.

Page 6

The Florida Mason

Bro. Matt Goldstein,

Bro. Claudio Kletsel,
RW Walter Flemke,
W Patrick Knox and
W Gary Silver

RW Sol Goldenberg,
RW Charlie Fischer,
Bro. Matt Goldstein,
Bro. Ed Vitoulis and
RW Walter Flemke

Volume 7, Issue 2

On The Shores Of Coffee Pot Bayou

he Residents are anxiously awaiting the arrival of a brand new van thanks
to Most Worshipful Jim Ford and his daughter Traceys First Ladys
Masonic Home Project. Because of their dedication and your generosity, an
order has been placed for a new vehicle to replace the exiting 2000 Ford Econoline
Van which transports Residents to and from doctor appointments, etc. everyday.
This highly specialized van will have a custom wheelchair lift to provide safe and
comfortable transportation to those who need a little extra assistance. These
photos show our guys having some fun with our old van which has over 195,000
miles! Please join us on Pilgrimage Day, Saturday, March 21, 2015, when we
officially dedicate this very needed addition at 11 am.

L to R: Guy D. Wilson, Resident,

Member of Moore Haven Lodge
No. 61, Hubert Herb Cox, Resident, Member of Gulf Stream
Lodge No. 245, David Francis,
Resident, Member of West Broward
Lodge No.253, Guy Wilson, Resident, Member of Moore Haven
Lodge No. 61, Bennie Rex Bennett, Resident, Member of Elmer
O. Smith Lodge No. 307 provide a
little pushing and pulling

Herman Hoyle
Efrid, Resident,
Member of Canaveral
Lodge No. 339
provides a little push

Hubert Herb Cox, Resident, Member of

Gulf Stream Lodge No. 245 checks things
out under the hood
David Francis, Resident,
Member of West Broward
Lodge No. 253 provides
a little pull

Winter 2014

Masonic Lifestyles

Page 7

Welcome
From Our Administrator

Seasons Greetings To All:

s the close of 2014 approaches, we are thinking of
the many wonderful events,
big and small, which have made the
year very special. This newsletter is
full of individual Members, Lodges,
Districts and Statewide efforts to enrich the lives of all those associated
with the Masonic Home of Florida.
This includes gifts of time, talents and resources. On behalf of the
Residents and Staff of your Masonic Home, please accept our sincere appreciation for continuing to make this Community one-of-akind!
The Board of Trustees of the Masonic Home, in unison with the

Caught kissing Santa Claus, is

Carmela Bloodgood, Resident,
Sponsored by Tarpon Lodge No. 112.
Santa doesn't seem to mind.

Masters And Wardens of Dade County

Christmas In October

DEPUTY GRAND MASTER

R W Steven P. Boring
(DeLand)

or 38 years, the Masters &

Wardens Association of
Dade County, District
34 & 35, has sponsored the
Christmas In October for the
Residents. Shown are some of
the Elves who work all year
long to prepare for this event!
That same day Coconut Grove
Lodge No. 258, presented a donation check.
Each Resident received a gift from their wish list and also got to shop at the free store.
Many thanks to all.

SENIOR GRAND WARDEN

R W Stanley L. Hudson
(Port St. Lucie)
JUNIOR GRAND WARDEN
R W Richard G. Hoover
(St. Petersburg)

GRAND SECRETARY
M W Richard E. Lynn, P.G.M.
(Jacksonville)

32nd District Santa

And Mrs. Claus
n November, Santa and Mrs. Claus, also known
as Roy and Caroline Strohacker from the 32nd District, along with Members of Gulfstream Lodge No. 245, who are pictured here came to spend time with the Residents.
Each Resident was given handmade frames for their photos.

GRAND MASTER
M W James W. Ford
(Valrico)

GRAND TREASURER
M W Elmer G. Coffman, P.G.M.
(Orange Park)

Wishing you and yours and happy and healthy holiday season,
Lisa Tsotsos, Administrator

When Resident, Winnie Kilby, Sponsored by

Friendship Lodge No. 53, told her friend, Wanda
Ahart to come and visit Santa. Wanda never would
have guessed that they both would end up on
Santas lap together!

Grand Lodge of Florida

220 North Ocean Street
Jacksonville, Florida 32202
P.O. Box 1020 32201
Tel: 800.375.2339
www.glflamason.org
Grand Lodge Officers
2013 - 2014

Grand Lodge Officers have been working diligently not only to

preserve the amazing history and traditions of this outstanding
Home, but also preparing for the future while continuing to meet
the needs of Residents for another 100 years! We are fortunate to
have extremely dedicated Staff who offer loving, compassionate,
professional, care and service each and every day.
Pilgrimage Day will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2015.
Please make plans to join us for the day. A highlight is sure to be the
presentation of the new wheelchair van at 11 am. Most Worshipful
James W. Ford and his daughter, Tracey Williams have dedicated
their year to ensuring that Joy Fords dream came true. Due to your
generosity, this valuable vehicle which helps make the lives of
Residents easier, will be dedicated in Joys memory.

Order of the Amaranth Always Works To Support Our

he Grand Court of Florida Order of sented a check which allowed the Home to
Masonic Home
the Amaranth never forgets to purchase two computer work stations for

support projects which help the

Residents of the Masonic Home. Each
year, the Grand Royal Matron selects a
special Masonic Home Project and this
year was no exception. In May 2014, the
Grand Royal Matron Judy Barnes pre-

All submissions for future

issues of The Masonic Lifestyles

the Resident to enjoy and stay in touch

with friends and family. We would like to
thank all those who gave so generously,
and also a special thanks to Stephen Edson
for setting everything up and making
things even easier!

should be sent to
Lisa Tsotsos, Toll Free at

Service Guild Volunteers

866-868-6749 or E-Mail:

any of our wonderful community, Resident, and

Service Guild Volunteers came for their special
Annual Volunteer Appreciation Program in
May. Food Service provided a gourmet spread of treats,
and they each received a gift as a small token of our many
thanks to each of them!
Pictured is Resident Volunteer, Alice Gates, Sponsored
by Community Lodge No. 292.

masonichm@aol.com

Resident Mens Club

Next Issue Deadline:
The Florida Mason
Vol. 8, Issue 1

he Resident Mens Club is shown at their first

meeting in the Program Center. Residents are
shown enjoying the treats, and then they
watched the funny sports bloopers.

& Masonic Lifestyles

The Mail Never Stops...

Summer 15
Submission Date
March 10, 2015
Print Date
May 5, 2015
E-News Submission Date
March 16, 2015
Distribution Date
April 1, 2016

Page 8

esident Volunteer, Marion Rudolph,

Port Tampa Lodge No. 153, is shown
sorting and delivering the mail to the
Residents mail boxes. A job she has devotedly done 5 days a week for about 10 years!

Pilgrimage Day 2015 Save The Date

March 21, 2015!

Talk about dedication!

Thank you Marion!

Masonic Lifestyles www.masonichomeofflorida.org

Winter 2014

Programs Which Benefit

Masonic Home Of Florida
Let Your Pennies
Make Good Cents

Masonic Home
Endowment Fund

(LYPMGC)

MH100

Annual First
Ladys Masonic
Home Project

Granite Square
$150 Donation

Tree of Life
$100 Donation

Wish List

Brick Paver

Items Needed
By Home

$50 Donation

Treats - Funding

Florida
Masonic Tag
License Plate

For Special
Resident Programs
& Activities

Annual
Lodge Dues

Corkys Cupboard
Resident Toiletries, Etc.

Charitable
Gift Annuity

Wills And Gifts

Established in 1919

As you can see, there are many ways in which your contributions
help to secure the future of The Masonic Home Of Florida

Halloween Party

Rainbow Girls

alloween was so much fun! The Residents

broke the record for the number of
people who dressed up for the Costume
Contest!

n June, a group of volunteers

came to The Masonic Home
from Space Coast Assembly
99, International Order of Rainbow Girls. They helped make craft
kits for the Veterans and 4th of July
Festivities. What a great group of
fine young Ladies who came to
help others!

Annual Grand Lodge Communication

Seated, are Jim & Lois Hughey, Springs Lodge No. 378, and standing are
Popeye and Olive Oyl, (AKA: Henry & Edna Pierce, Hillsborough Lodge No. 25).

Residents listening to the various

speeches.

11th & 12th

Masonic Districts
Annual Luau
L to R: Admissions Director,
Wanda Odom, Ed Villiaume of
Nitram Lodge No. 188 and
Lisa Tsotsos, Administrator.

esidents traveled to
Orlando in May to
attend Grand Lodge
Communication.

n September, Resident, Kitty

Hayes, Sponsored by Pinellas
Daylight Lodge No. 385 is shown
left watching the singers and
dancers. Rich Dixon, Resident,
Albert J. Russell Lodge No. 126
shown right is also enjoying the
program.

Pictured on the bus ride are in front: Buck Raulerson, Dunnellon Lodge No. 136,
middle is Bob & Mary Ellen Elston Elmer O. Smith Lodge No. 307 and in back,
Jack Dowdy, Northside Lodge No. 283.
Winter 2014

Masonic Lifestyles

Page 9

Go Tampa
Bay Rays

esidents enjoyed some fun and

excitement as they attended the
Rays Game! Shown are left,
Rex Bennett, Elmer O. Smith Lodge
No. 307, and right, Jerry Lance, High Twelve
Lodge No. 317.
Polly Dodson, Resident, Sponsored by
Temple Terrace Lodge No. 330, had a blast
watching the Rays. She is a long-time fan and
was raised near Cooperstown. She even
has all sorts of stories about meeting
Ted Williams!

Happy Birthday
Marie

arie Sturgeons husband was

a proud Member of Orange
Park Lodge No. 267 and the
fellow Members of that Lodge never
forget her birthday since she has moved into the
Masonic Home. They made sure that November 4, 2014
was extra special by presenting her with a beautiful
birthday cake and gift.

Happy Birthday John

he day before Thanksgiving, Resident John Brink,

Floral City Lodge No. 133, bought a Thank you to
all Residents cake for everyones enjoyment. It was
served in Whats the
Scoop? Ice Cream
Parlor along with
different flavors of
ice cream! Since his
birthday was two
days after Thanksgiving, everyone sang
Happy Birthday to
him at the party!

L to R: Buck Raulerson, Dunnellon Lodge

No. 136, Hal Gokey, Temple Lodge No. 23,
and Dick Blazier, St. James Lodge No 457,
PA, are shown watching the game.

30th Masonic District Annual BBQ

esident, Dan Roberts,

from Eureka Lodge No.
302 in PA., is dressing
the part by wearing his duds
at the 30th Districts Annual
Western BBQ in August!
The Members of the
30th and their Families
did the cooking and the
serving!

We Are Pleased To Offer An OUTREACH Program

& WEBSITE Serving Members Throughout Florida!

Checukt!it
O

Whether you have a need for Residential Services on our St. Petersburg campus, or in your local Community,
please call the Masonic Home of Florida toll free at (866) 868-6749 or go to
www.MasonicHomeOfFlorida.org for assistance with aging services.

asonic Lifestyles is a complimentary semi-annual newsletter produced by the Masonic Home of Florida and The Most Worshipful Grand
Lodge of F.&A.M. of Florida. Story requests, comments or suggestions for future issues may be e-mailed directly to:
masonichm@aol.com or mailed to: Masonic Home of Florida, Attention: Lisa Tsotsos 3201 1st Street NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33704

The Board of Trustees of the Masonic Home cordially invite you to attend
monthly meetings at the Masonic Home, 11:00 A.M. in the Board Room.
Chapel Service starts at 10:00 A.M.

January 18th, February 22th, March 22nd, April 19th

ADMISSION PLANS
Life Care Plan

Pay As You Go (Private Pay)**

n May of 2005, the Grand Lodge of Florida approved

Private Pay admissions for Florida and non-Florida Masons.
This plan provides an opportunity for Florida and non-Florida
Master Masons and their wives, widows and mothers to retain
control of their assets while enjoying all the Masonic Home has to
offer. Residents pay a three month deposit and $3,650* monthly for
Assisted Living and $6,083* monthly for Skilled Nursing care. Most
fees and services are included except medication. For couples
entering the Masonic Home, the first person pays this monthly
fee and the second person fee is $1,800*
monthly. Applicants for Pay As You Go
should get in touch with the Masonic Home
directly to begin the admission process
which can take as little as one week for approval.

his traditional plan is available to any Master Mason who becomes a Member of a Florida Lodge prior to the age of 70.
He must be a Member in good standing of a Florida Lodge for
at least ten years and continually for the last three. The wife or
widow of a Master Mason is eligible for residency based on his
Membership. Contact your Lodge or the Masonic Home for an
application. Upon completion, the application is signed by the
Worshipful Master and Secretary. It is then presented to the District
Deputy Grand Master for review. The application is then forwarded
to the Admissions Committee, Board of Trustees, and
Grand Master for final approval. This process takes
approximately 30-60 days. Dual Members are also
eligible.
Under the Life Care Plan, assets owned by the Resident
such as property, bank accounts, stocks, social security,
pensions, etc., are deposited with the Masonic Home.
These assets are then converted to cash to establish a
Resident Maintenance Account. Each month, this
account is debited to cover the cost of care. Residents
retain 10% of any liquid assets, initially and subsequently, in excess of $10,000 for personal use. When
assets are exhausted, the Masonic Home continues to
provide care throughout the lifetime of the Resident
regardless of his/her ability to pay.
Page 10

Masonic Lifestyles www.masonichomeofflorida.org

**Please Note that effective June 2012,

Women who are qualified Members of the
Order of the Eastern Star are now eligible to
apply for the Pay As You Go Plan.

*Rates subject to change.

Winter 2014

Bro. Clyde Kemper Receives

75 Year Membership Award And
Custom Designed Apron From His
Lodge Brothers

Hal Maines Community Center & Lake

Butler Lodge No. 52 Hosts Floridas
Grand Master

W James W. Ford, Grand Master of Masons in Florida, made his Official Visit to
the Friendly 10th Masonic District on September 26, 2014. Right Worshipful Bruce
Kirby of Pine Hill Lodge No. 9 serving as the District Deputy Grand Master, greeted
the Members and guests at the Community Center.
Prior to the super being served, Sheriff Brad Whitehead and RW Lyn Williams presented
MW James Ford a certificate and badge making him an honorary Union County Deputy.
Debbie Osborn, Supervisor of Elections, Lisa Johnson, Tax Collector, Kellie Hendricks Connell,
Clerk of the Court and Comptroller and Vincent Brown, Union County Times Editor, provided
their moral support.
A super meal was enjoyed by about 200 Masons and their guests. After supper and presentations it was announced by the Grand Master that $1,800 in donations had been made to the Grand
Masters Charity (Masonic Medical Research Laboratory in Ithica, New York) and to First Ladys
Project of replacing the well worn medical transport vehicle at the Masonic Home in St. Petersburg,
Florida.
Union County 4H Students under the guidance of Amanda Rhodes, 4H Advisor, received a
$621.00 donation for their work in serving the supper meal at the community Center. The Master
Masons retired to attend a Tyled Called Communication of Brookers Pine Hill Lodge No. 9 held
at Lake Butler Lodge No. 52. The non-Masons remained at the Community Center and were treated
to music supplied by the Griffis Group from Raiford, Florida.
Right Worshipful Michael McCool, acting Grand Marshall for the Grand Lodge of Florida,
introduced the Elected and Appointed Grand Lodge Officers and Right Worshipful Bruce Kirby
introduced Right Worshipful Leaman Alvarez, District Instructor and his wife Janice, Worshipful
John McKibben, Worshipful Master of Pine Hill Lodge No. 9 and his wife Jennifer, and
Worshipful John Belovich, President of the 10th District Masonic Association. The entire evening
was a memorable event that highlighted the work the Masons do to help others.

rother Clyde Francis Kemper

began his Masonic Career on July
15, 1938, as an Entered Apprentice
at Acacia Lodge No. 586, in Pennsylvania.
He was Passed to the Degree of Fellowcraft on September 15, 1938 and raised to
the Sublime Degree of Master Mason on
November 18, 1938. He affiliated with
The Villages Masonic Lodge No. 394, The
Villages, Florida on June 16, 1998.
On December 6, 2013, The Villages
Lodge was pleased to present Brother
Kemper with a 75 Year Membership Certificate, Pin and a custom designed Apron
by his Brothers for the occasion. The presentations were made by Grand Master,
Most Worshipful Danny R. Griffith and
Right Worshipful Ed Lisle, DDGM from
the 18th Masonic District.
Several Grand Lodge Committeemen
and a large representation of The Villages
Lodge Brothers were present at a luncheon
held in Brother Clydes honor at the Wildwood Masonic Building, Wildwood,
Florida. Brother Clyde, born in 1917, is a
frequent and honored attendee of The Villages Lodge Monthly Meetings and social
luncheons. It is always an honor to call on
our 75 Year Member to be recognized at
our meetings. He is a distinguished Member of our Craft, good friend and Brother
and proud Member of the Fraternity.

Gulf Beach Lodge No. 291 Hosts

Annual Widows Dinner
by Howard W. Knapp PM, PDI,
PDDGM, Secretary
hat a beautiful evening with
our Masonic widows. Fiftytwo Masons, family and
friends attended the Annual Widows
Dinner at Gulf Beach Lodge No. 291
on October 30, 2014. They enjoyed a
fantastic baked chicken dinner prepared by the teamwork of the officers.
Following the meal, each widow
was introduced and the Masonic History of their late husband was read.
RW Knapp presented a talk
that was given in 1923 called, The
Spirit of Masonry. The members of Gulf Beach Lodge are happy in fulfilling their obligation
to their departed Brothers by keeping a close watch over their widows and orphans.

WM Dale Barnes Receives

Award Ferry Pass Lodge No. 348

W Harry Boyette, D.D.G.M.

for the 2nd Masonic District,
presented awards to WM
Dale Barnes for his service to the Child
I.D. Program. Worshipful Dale Barnes
has been involved since the beginning of
this great program. He is a Past Master
of Ferry Pass Lodge No. 348 and his
Brothers said, he is like the postman
rain, sleet or snow (in Florida) he has the
trailer there for all the Child I.D. Events.
When asked to respond he said, Its all
about Integrity, if you have that, you will
always do the right thing. What a great
Mason.

Gulf Beach Lodge No. 291 - Honors

65 Year Mason

ulf
Beach
Masonic
Lodge, located in Madeira
Beach honored one of
their long time members for his
sixty-five years of service to the
Fraternity.
Brother
Edwin
Pinkham, a native of Maine, became a Freemason in Waterville
Lodge No. 33, Waterville Maine,
on November 28, 1949. Brother
Pinkham served as a medic in the
Korean War and retired from the
U.S. Postal service before moving
to Florida. Brother Pinkham, who
is also a musician, has provided
music for Gulf Beach Lodge for
nearly ten years. Brother Pinkham
has rarely missed a Lodge meeting
and is a huge supporter of all the
Lodge's charitable activities in the
community. Gulf Beach Lodge L to R: Bro. Edwin Pinkham receives
wishes him many more years of 65 Year Award from Worshipful Master Michael
health and prosperity.
Pagnotta

Volume 7, Issue 2

The Villages Lodge

Presents 40 Year
Service Awards
And Perpetual
Friend Memberships To Recipient
Ladies

n November 10, 2014, Right Worshipful Brother Bob Collins and Worshipful
Brother Bob Moynihan were each
presented their 40 Year Service Awards from
the Grand Lodge of Florida by Worshipful
Master Victor Campbell of The Villages
Masonic Lodge No. 394. They each then
presented their ladies, Donna Collins and
Carolyn Moynihan, with red roses and a
Perpetual Friend Membership Certificate to
commemorate their long years of service that
enabled their husbands to be active and
successful, and spend so many enjoyable years,
in the Masonic Fraternity. Prior to the presentation, refreshments were served in the dining
room along with a special cake decorated to
recognize their service as families.

The Florida Mason

Page 11

From The Quarry To The Temple The Journey of a Neglected Stone by Bro. Juan Sepulveda

ro. Juan is the host of a Freemasonry Podcast called The Winding Stairs, which has
been listened in over 100 countries since its inception in 2013. He also co-hosts a
weekly video program on YouTube called The Masonic Roundtable, which features
news and opinions about Freemasonry.
Most Worshipful Grand Master, Distinguished East, Brethren All,
In the year 1462 a gigantic block of white marble began its journey from The Quarry
to The Temple. Master Sculptor Agostino di Duccio was entrusted with the transformation
It took over a decade before another artist attempted to
meet the challenge. Antonio Rossellino, a master sculptor,
was entrusted with the vision of transforming that stone into
a Masterpiece. Antonio Rossellino had the skills because he
studied under some of the most influential and accomplished
sculptors and architects of his time. However, Although he
had the necessary skills to overcome the challenges
presented by this stone, he lacked the vision to make that
sculpture a reality. Therefore, he laid down his working tools
and ceased labor on that project. This is how that roughly
hewned stone remained The Neglected Stone.
Nearly 50 years after Antonio Rossellino laid down his
working tools on that neglected stone, a courageous 26 year
old with a confident stance and a defiant stare took on the
challenge of completing that journey from the Quarry to The
Temple. Michelangelo Buonarroti the Florentine had the
vision, the skills, the passion and determination to free the
statue of David from the confines of that colossal block of
white marble.
Most Worshipful Grand Master, Distinguished East,
Brethren All, I come to you today to talk to you about that
Neglected Stone and about its Journey from The Quarry to
The Temple and how it relates to our own personal journey.

What is the statue of David?

Other than the frescoes on the Sistine Chapels Ceiling
in Vatican City, the sculpture of David is one of the most
recognized works of art by Michelangelo Buonarroti. Ironically, it is a depiction of the Biblical story of confrontation
of David against the menacing Philistine giant Goliath. With
a confident stance and defiant stare, David holds over his
left shoulder a sling and in his right hand the stones with
which he will slay the giant.

From the Horizontal to the

Perpendicular
One of the early steps Michelangelo took in the process
of sculpting David, was to elevate the block of marble from
the horizontal to the perpendicular. Symbolically, the horizontal state of that stone represents defeat. One of the first

of this roughly hewned stone into a beautifully adorned component of the Cathedral of Santa
Maria del Fiore in Florence Italy.
However that journey was cut short because Agostino di Duccio was not prepared to
meet the challenge. Although he had a vision for the sculpture, he lacked the skills in working with a stone of that magnitude. Overwhelmed by the challenges that this project presented, he laid down his working tools and ceased labor on that project. This is how that
roughly hewned stone became The Neglecled Stone.

steps in advancing further towards the Temple is to change

our point of view when we look at these seemingly impossible challenges. That colossal white marble block represents
a challenge that others have not been able to overcome, but
we might feel in our heart that we are the ones to courageously face it and overcome it. As we come across this
menacing challenge, lets change the way in which we look
at it. Moving it from the horizontal to the perpendicular will
change how we look at the challenge and prepare us for the
hard work ahead.

Steadfast Progression
If there is something I love about Michelangelos
approach to sculpting is that he saw the process of sculpting
as a removal of superfluities. He believed that the roughly
hewned block of marble already contained The David inside
and it was his responsibility to steadily chip away at the
superfluities that confined it to quarry. He knew that, although it would be a difficult feat to free that sculpture from
the roughly hewned stone, it was necessary that he was true
to the vision and worked diligently to materialize it. Imagine that with every blow of the chisel, he was removing the
excess and allowing the entrapped David to surface.
Early in our Masonic journey we are presented the
working tools of an Entered Apprentice.
Among them is the common gavel. And we are taught to use
it to break off the corners of rough stones. That as Free &
Accepted we are to use it to diligently remove from our
hearts and consciences the superfluities of life. Perhaps we
are that neglected stone. Perhaps part of the challenge that
comes with dealing with that rough stone is to work on
ourselves. Is there something amiss in us that is preventing
us from successfully freeing that Masterpiece? Inside each
one of us there is a Masterpiece that will be revealed only
after we remove the superfluities that confine it to the
Quarry.

Beyond The Temple

When the sculpture was first envisioned in the 1460s,
before Michelangelo was born, it was intended to serve as
adornment for the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. How-

Ft. Pierce Lodge Holds Raffle, Gets

New Welcome Sign And Building
Funds

Masonic Service Association (MSA)

Submitted by RW Earl C. Ray, PDDGM District 21 MSA Representative, CW Bill
Young VA Medical Center
he MSA efforts in support of Veterans
at the CW Bill Young VA Medical
Center, Bay Pines, Florida has recently
been enhanced by the addition of Brother
Mason Dean Sever, his Lady Linda and their
team of Registered Therapy Dogs Amber, and
Belle.
Brother Sever is a Perpetual Member of
Leesburg Lodge No. 58 and a Plural Member
of Elmer O. Smith Lodge No. 307 which is
located near the VA Medical Center, Bay
Pines, FL. He is a Member of the St. Petersburg York Rite Bodies, Florida Lodge of
Research, Mystic Brotherhood Knight Masons, Pentagon York Rite College and National
Association of Masonic Scouters having also received the Daniel Carter Beard Award. His
Lady Linda is a Member of the Social Order of the Beauceant.
The team currently dedicates two mornings monthly to fulfill specific visitation tasking
their VA Controlling Officer schedules for each visit. The dedicated efforts of the team in
providing Moral and Welfare Enhancement Therapy to our Veterans are very much appreciated by the in-patients at the C W Bill Young VA Medical Center.

t. Pierce Lodge No. 87 held a guitar raffle at the beginning of the year! A design was completed and
the Lodge got a new welcome sign for their lobby
with some money to spare for the building fund! This was
a real team effort! Everyone supported this vision and
made it happen. Thanks go to everyone who bought tickets and Brother Jim Barnes, Lodge Junior Warden, who
crafted a beautiful mount to match the Lobby counter/
display case.

Ornan Lodge No. 117 Masons Donate

Bikes to Williston Elementary School
Perfect attendance during FCAT testing
qualified students
by W Bill Catsulis, Secretary, MLT - Zone 4 Chairman
nce more, local Masons purchased bicycles to reward students at Williston Elementary School who had perfect attendance during the two-week window of the
recent FCAT testing. Right Worshipful Kenneth E. Shaw, Deputy District Grand
Master, was on hand for the presentation. Pictured next to him is Williston Elementary
School Assistant Principal Chloe Gabriel, then from Ornan Lodge No. 117 are Bro.
Jeremy Johnson, Senior Deacon; Worshipful Bill Catsulis, Past Master; Worshipful Glen
Lee Garner, Worshipful Master; and Bro. David Bruce Alford, Senior Warden. Williston
Elementary School Principal Marla Hiers rounds out the group behind the winners:

3rd grader Matthew Sampson,

4th grader Christyuna Caulwell and
5th grader Jaggert Justice
Williston Elementary School appreciates the great support!

Page 12

ever, this colossus moved more times than any sculpture of

that size ever should. It even stood tall for some time by the
entrance to the Palazzo Della Signoria or Palazzo Vecchio.
But the most interesting fact to me is that although the
initial vision was for it to serve as part of the adornments of
a Cathedral, it eventually became the centerpiece of a Temple of sorts. Today, nearly 500 years after its completion it is
on display at the Galleria Dell Accademia, a museum
dedicated to the Fine Arts. There it stands as a testament to
one Mans vision and the transcendence of the Labor of our
hands and hearts.
I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on these
questions.
What is your neglected stone?
What is that challenge, which others before you have
attempted to meet without
success?
Is there a difficult project that is calling you. One that
has laid neglected for too long.
What will it take for you to elevate that challenge from
the Horizontal to the Vertical?
For some of you that neglected stone is a professional
one. There might be a business decision that is looming over
you. A difficult decision which others have attempted to
resolve without success. Or perhaps Your Neglected Stone is
a personal challenge. It might be the decision to mend a
relationship, to start anew, to say Im sorry. Perhaps you
know of something that is happening in our Fraternity which
has to change. A colossus that has proven to be too difficult
for previous Masonic Leaders. Perhaps they might have
lacked the vision, the skills or the support and now this
Neglected Stone becomes your Goliath.
Will you stand confident with a defiant stare like David
and face this menacing challenge?
I encourage you to take some time today and in the coming days to reflect on this:
What is your Neglected Stone and what are you going
to do to complete its journey From The Quarry to The
Temple.

The Florida Mason

Youre Never Too

Old To Join

oungest man a new Mason, 92

year old Brother Norbert Felix
Miles is that man. His Grandfather and Father were Masons, and Brother
Miles figured this would be a good time
for him to join Curfew Lodge No. 73.
Brother Miles is in the center, from left to
right, WM Bob Diets, J.D. Eugene
Quass, WM Clyde Millender and
WM Mike Horvath. The Brothers from
Crawford Lodge No. 294 F&AM assisted
with the Degree.

Volume 7, Issue 2

Breakthrough Treatment For Atrial

Fibrillation Discovered At MMRL
Completes Phase 2 Clinical Trial
by Myron Thurston III, Assistant Director of Development and Communications
Cardiac Research Institute, Masonic Medical Research Laboratory
an Francisco, CA and Utica, NY, May 10, 2014 Gilead Sciences, Inc. (Nasdaq: GILD)
announced results of their HARMONY Phase 2 Clinical Trial investigating the results of
ranolazine and low dose dronedarone to combat atrial fibrillation (AF). The initial research that
prompted this clinical trial was conducted at the Cardiac Research Institute at Masonic Medical
Research Laboratory (MMRL) based in Utica, NY and was published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology in 2010. The Phase 2 clinical trial was double blind, meaning that neither
the patient nor the medical practitioner knew who was taking the placebo and who was taking the
medication. Results of the clinical trial showed that those taking the drug combination had far fewer
episodes of atrial fibrillation than those taking the placebo or either drug alone. Phase 3 clinical
trials are expected to begin later this year.
Dr. Charles Antzelevitch, Executive Director and Director of Research of the MMRL, states
that safe and effective treatment for atrial fibrillation is one of the greatest unmet medical needs facing our society today. Over 2.7 million Americans suffer from atrial fibrillation, a fluttering of the
upper chambers of the heart, and although treatments are available, most have serious side effects
that limit their use in many conditions. One in ten people are expected to develop atrial fibrillation
as they approach age 80 and as medical innovation increases life expectancy, a significantly greater
number of Americans will be at risk.
This discovery and the promising Phase 2 trial results provide hope for millions of Americans
who suffer from AF. Central New York Cardiology and the Mohawk Valley Heart Institute participated in the Phase 2 trial and expect to participate in the Phase 3 clinical trial.
When the heart is in atrial fibrillation, stagnation of blood in the atria can cause blood clots that
can travel to the brain and cause an ischemic stroke. Over 25% of strokes in the United States are
attributable to atrial fibrillation. For this reason, it is important to for patients with AF to use blood
thinners such as warfarin or other newer anticoagulants.
The Masonic Medical Research Laboratory is a not-for-profit institute dedicated to improving
the health and quality of life for all. The institutes primary mission is to conduct high quality basic
and clinical research aimed at generating knowledge and information necessary for development of
the medical cures and treatments of tomorrow. The Laboratory is also committed to providing
education and training to basic scientists, clinical researchers and students who will perpetuate and
extend the fight against disease. Please visit www.mmrl.edu to learn more about research at the
MMRL or search for the MMRL on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Ornan Masonic Lodge No. 117 - Honors Levy

County JROTC, Veterans and Teachers
by W Bill Catsulis, Ornan Lodge No. 117

n Saturday, May 17th, 2014, Members of Ornan Masonic Lodge No. 117 held their 4th Annual Steak Dinner Fundraiser by honoring several different groups and was a great success.

This great night started with Patriotism with the Levy County JROTC presenting an excellent
Color Guard Detail and all present (80 attendees) joined in the pledge allegiance to the Flag of Our
Country and an opening Prayer.
The 2014 Worshipful Master Glen Lee Garner, a retired decorated U.S. Army Special Forces
Green Beret welcomed all present and dinner was served.
The JROTC ate free thanks to a generous donation from Drummond Community Bank, who
paid for their meals.
Brother Ted Glass was presented a 25 Year Membership Award by the Lodge Secretary Bill
Catsulis. WM Garner then spoke of the many ways Freemasonry helps in the local community.
Mrs. Marla Heirs, Principal at Williston Elementary gave a short talk about her school and how we
can help. For many years Ornan Lodge No. 117 donates 6 brand new bicycles to the School each
year. Worshipful Garner then presented Ornans Adopt-A- Teacher for the 2014 Year Mrs. Kimberly
Batts, from Joyce Bollock Elementary a check for 200.00 to buy school supplies for her class and a
Certificate of Appreciation for her work.
The attention then turned to the JROTC who have enlisted into the Armed Forces who were presented certificates of appreciation, and a Two Dollar bill to remind them that we are here for them.
Captain Klegg the Commander of the program introduced the enlistees and each gave a short talk
about how they came to enlist, and what it means to them. Worshipful Garner then called upon our
oldest member Past Master Ray Stipanovitch who enlisted in to the Marines in 1942 to talk about his
service, then No. 498 (a reference to his jump number) was then called up. RW Dan Hartley who
was a paratrooper in the Army also explained about his service.
The Worshipful Master then invited all who had served in the military to the front of the room
and explained about Armed Forces Day which is always the third day of May and invited them to
introduce themselves, and elaborate on their service, all branches of service were represented. These
heroes served in many duty stations including Guadalcanal, Okinawa, Korea, the DMZ of Korea,
Panama Canal, Pearl Harbor, Viet Nam, and other places around the world and they were applauded
by all present.
Overall it was a great night of Freemasonry, Public Service, Honor, Community involvement.
The annual fundraiser is held on Armed Forces Day which is third Saturday of May. The proceeds
help to fund the many charitable programs presented in Levy County by the Freemasons of Ornan
Lodge No. 117. The Lodge meets on the First and Third Monday of each Month at 7:30 p.m.

Volume 7, Issue 2

Acacia Lodge No. 163 Honors

Three Law Enforcement Officers
And Provided Fifteen College
Scholarships

cacia Lodge No. 163 F. & A.M. of Stuart recently celebrated another successful Law Enforcement Night on May 14, 2014. This event garnered
over 115 attendees that included local law enforcement officers, recipients
of Masonic college scholarships, and family members of brother Masons of that
Lodge. This appreciation event recognizes the accomplishments of local law enforcements officers.
The evening started off with a wonderful dinner that consisted of an authentic Fireman's chili, fluffy white rice, and moist corn muffins. This dinner was
topped off by a decadent chocolate mousse. All of this food was skillfully and
thoughtfully prepared by Brother Chris Meyer and Brother Brad Peters.
This is what Brother George Stokus, who oversees the kitchen, had to say
about the meal:
"It was such an honor to have been a part of Law Enforcement Night at our Lodge.
These men and women sacrifice a lot for the safety of our community, so coordinating the meal was the least I could do. However, I must give credit where
credit is due. Brother Meyer and Brother Peters truly went above and beyond in
the preparation of this meal. After all, they had to feed 115 guests that included
important local leaders."
After the meal concluded everyone adjourned to the meeting room for the
award segment of the evening. Enchanting organ music was played by Brother
Walter Hanner while people were waiting to be seated. Brother Frank Keifer who
is this year's Master of the Lodge, began the event with a few thoughtful opening
remarks. It meant a lot for him to be able to lead this event as his father is a retired police officer from Harlem, NY.
When the opening remarks concluded, Chief Tina Ciechanowski, Chief David
Dyess, and Lt. Cedric Humphrey all had the opportunity to present the Acacia
Lodge Officer of the Year Award to one distinguished member of their department. These officers work extremely hard to keep Martin County safe, so it was
very meaningful to see them being honored by the members of the Acacia Lodge.
This year's honorees were Sgt. George McClain of the Stuart Police Department, Sgt. Bonnie Bare of the Sewall's Point Police Department, and Deputy Sheriff William Weiss of the Martin County Sheriff's Office.
This is what Sewall's Point Chief of Police, Tina Ciechanowski had to say
about the evening:
"This was my first opportunity to attend the lodge's Law Enforcement Awards
Night. I was touched by the tremendous effort made by the lodge to recognize the
good work of the law enforcement officers in Martin County. I feel blessed as a
chief to know that members of the lodge are here supporting not only law
enforcement in our community, but also provide scholarships to improve educational opportunities for our youth"
This is what Stuart Chief of Police, David Dyess had to say about the event:
"Law enforcement in general and Stuart police more specifically are very pleased
to receive recognition from the Acacia Lodge. I have been present for the award
ceremony for the last few years and it's always been a nice experience and
rewarding for the officers receiving the awards."
This is what First Lt. Cedric Humphrey had to say about Law Enforcement
Night:
On behalf of the Martin County Sheriff's Office and Sheriff Snyder, I'd like to
say that we really appreciate Acacia Lodge for honoring the men and women of
law enforcement. I was honored to have the opportunity to present the award on
behalf of Sheriff Snyder to Deputy Sheriff William Weiss for all he has done
throughout the year and his entire career.
After the awards were given out, 15 students from all four local high schools
were presented with college scholarships of various amounts from the Acacia
Lodge and the Order of the Eastern Star, Unity Chapter No. 37 respectively.
Brother Frank Kiefer and Diane Lenartowicz let the students know that they were
very proud of their academic accomplishments.
The evening concluded with an eloquent speech from Chief Tina
Ciechanowski where she expanded on the excellent job our law enforcement
officers do for the citizens of Martin County. Her passion for her job shined
through and it was obvious that she's committed to serving our community well.
The members of Acacia Lodge did a fantastic job honoring our local law
enforcement officers. If this year's Law Enforcement Night is any indication of
success, then next year's event should be even better.

ight Worshipful Rudy Boatwright, who is serving The Craft as the

MH100 State Chairman, presented Most Worshipful Elmer Coffman and
Most Worshipful Danny Griffith with a Grand Master's Club Lapel Pin
and Certificate for donating $1000.00 to the MH-100 Fund at Orange Park
Lodge No. 267.

The Florida Mason

Page 13

Worshipful Wayne Williams is presented his 55 Year

Certificate and Pin from Most Worshipful Elmer
Coffman, P.G.M. at Orange Park Lodge No. 267.

Most Worshipful Elmer Coffman, P.G.M. presented

Worshipful Carey Brannan with an Honorary Perpetual Membership to Orange Park Lodge No. 267

Manatee Lodge No. 31 Adopts A

School/Teacher For ESE Students
by George Benjamin, Secretary

embers of Manatee
Lodge No. 31 recently presented a
check for $500.00 to the ESE
teaching team at Palmetto
High School in recognition of
their outstanding dedication
and attention to the special
needs students attending Palmetto High School. The funds
will be used at the discretion L to R: Albert Thurman, Karen Prunier, Kathy Stinson,
of the teaching team to pur- Matt Steiner, Roseann OBrian, and John Steiner
chase teaching aids or other
supplies for the benefit of the Special Education Department. These funds were donated
as part of an ongoing District-wide Masonic Adopt-a-School/Teacher Program, which also
supplies needy students County-wide with backpacks and other educational supplies on a
regular basis.
District Public Education and Citizenship Committee Chairman Albert Thurman,
Lodge Sr. Warden John Steiner, and Jr. Steward Matt Steiner presented the check to
Palmetto High ESE teacher Roseann OBrian and ESE aides Kathy Stinson and Karen
Prunier. Ms. OBrian has been serving special needs students at Palmetto High School
for the last 19 years and in Manatee County for the last 37 years.
Manatee Masonic Lodge No. 31 holds regular Stated Meetings the First and Third
Monday of every month. For more information, please visit www.manateelodge31.org .

Gulf Beach Lodge Delivers

Thanksgiving Baskets

ulf Beach Masonic Lodge, located in Madeira Beach helped bring Holiday Cheer
to eight local families in need. Twenty-three Masons, friends and family members
prepared and delivered the Thanksgiving food baskets to less fortunate families in
the area. The baskets included a large turkey, pies, and all the sides necessary for the most
sumptuous Thanksgiving dinner. Gulf Beach Lodge is pleased to be able to assist in making this a great holiday season for those most in need. Gulf Beach Lodge has provided
Holiday baskets for over 40 years and looks forward to continuing the tradition well into
the future.

Most Worshipful Elmer Coffman, P.G.M. presents

Worshipful George Thomson of Orange Park Lodge
No. 267 with his 55 Year Award

The Masonic Blue Slipper - Many

Masons, Do Not Know Of Them Or Its
Meaning

t is a small lapel pin in the shape of the bottom of a blue slipper. In the bottom half of
the slipper is the Square and Compass. On the heal portion is the all Seeing Eye. Over
the years the wives, mothers and daughters of Masons have grown to wear them when
traveling alone away from home. But many Masons, do not know of them or its
meaning.
The Masonic Blue Slipper is a symbol for the Masonic Wives, Mothers and
Daughters with a history in the Bible story of Ruth. Any woman wearing
one of these or its symbol is under the protection of Masons.
Long ago, during a famine in Israel, Elimelech took his wife Naomi and
their two sons, left Bethlehem, and went into the land of Moab. The two
sons married Moabite women. Then Elimelech died, and shortly after his
two sons died. Naomi decided to return to Israel. At first both wanted to
go back with Naomi, but Naomi would not have it. Ruth was persistent
and travelled back with Naomi back to Bethlehem.
It was rough times, but they were able to get help from a distant relative of
Elimelech named Boaz, who had a good farm outside of town.
Naomi was a bit crafty, and before long Boaz fell in love with Ruth. But the
law of the land was a bit stiff. So Boaz set up court at the city gate as was the
custom then. Boaz sat down at the gate because he knew there was a kinsman more closely
related to Elimelech then he was. So when the kinsman came by, Boaz called him and asked
10 men of the elders to sit with them. Boaz bargained with his kinsman. The kinsman said
he would redeem Elimelechs property. But when he found out that he would be responsible for Naomi and Ruth he backed out and told Boaz he would not redeem or protect Elimelechs interest. The biblical passage reads as:
Ruth 4: 7-8; And the kinsman said, I cannot redeem it for myself, lest I mar mine own
inheritance: redeem thou my right to thyself; for I cannot redeem it., Now this was the manner in former time in Israel concerning redeeming and concerning changing, for to confirm
all things; a man plucked off his shoe, and gave it to his neighbor: and this was a testimony
in Israel.
The kinsmen drew off his shoe and gave it to Boaz. Boaz held it up for all in the gate
to see. He asked them to be witnesses that he became Naomis protector, Ruths husband and
a redeemer of Elimelechs property. From that point on and forever after Naomi and Ruth
became a part of the family of Boaz, that is, came under the sponsorship and protection of
Boaz and his family. Boaz took Ruth as his wife, and their son Obed became the father of
Jesse and grandfather of King David.
The shoe is a symbol of promise, and the Masonic Blue is the color of perfection. The
tekhelet dye comes from Murex snails whose blood is purple until exposed to sunlight when
turns sky blue. The sky blue does not fade and is everlasting. Blue threads are woven into
Jewish holy garments and the Israeli flag is blue.
The Masonic Blue Slipper represents that the woman is the relative of a Mason, under
the protection of Masons and under the unfading oath of all Masons to protect widows and
orphans. Thus the slipper has become an emblem to identify loved ones of Masons to other
members of the Craft.
Is the Masonic Shoe a Masonic Symbol? Yes. But, once again, we find that the
Masonic Shoe is another Masonic Symbol which did not originate with Freemasonry, but
which was taken from traditions of antiquity as documented in the Holy Books.
Is that disappointing? No. It simply once again, shows us the brotherhood of man through
the ages, which Freemasonry exemplifies.

Florida Masonic Tag

Approved By The Legislature
And Available!
The code to purchase:
Freemasons Tag FQR

Page 14

The Florida Mason

Volume 7, Issue 2

13 Gulf Beach Lodge Members Receive

Master Mason Exam Certificates

Gulf Beach 2nd Annual Sea No

Limits Fishing Clinic

by Howard Knapp, PM, PDI, PDDGM, Secretary

hirteen members of Gulf Beach Lodge No. 291, located in the beautiful city of Madeira
Beach, recently completed the Grand Lodge Master Mason Exams I, II and III. W:. Derryl
ONeal, District 21 Chairman for Masonic Education, presented these brothers their Grand
Lodge certificate of recognition at a regular communication of Gulf Beach Lodge on December 4th
in the presence of 50 Masons from as far away as Newfoundland. The recipients were Chet Strickland, Howard Knapp, Ralph Vaughan, John Anthony, Carl Moore, Travis Palladeno, Oscar Salazar,
David Neville, Adam Wolf, Bobby Burkett, James Robinson, Bob Meeks and David Gregory. Gulf
Beach Lodge encourages all Florida Masons to further their Masonic Education by completing
these informational and educational Master Mason Exams. Simply contact your Lodge Master or
Secretary to get the
ball rolling, you will
be happy you did.

he second annual Gulf Breeze Lodge No. 347 Sea No Limits fishing clinic
could not have ask for better weather. The sun was shining as were the faces
of the children who attended the clinic. It was a wonderful day for many of our
special needs children Sunday at the Palafox Pier in Pensacola. The parents and
children were able to attend the event, at no cost to them, while learning how to tie
knots, protect our oceans from pollution, and even had a few sea creatures to pet.
Escambia County Search and Rescue, a completely volunteer organization, was
on hand to ensure that the
event was safe and secure,
along with the Pensacola
police department. Pensacola Recreational Fishermans Association in
conjunction with Gulf
Breeze Lodge No. 347
arranged five areas for the
attendees to learn and
have fun. Station one is where they learned how to be responsible fisherman, station
two was a touch tank sponsored by Navarre Marine Science, station three taught how
to tie knots to ensure that you did not lose that big catch. Station four gave lessons
on how to cast your line and reel in that big fish. Lastly, the children visited the area
where they received a free rod and reel and had their pictures taken. There was also
food and water provided to all participants and volunteers. All this was made possible by generous donations and a grant from Fish Florida.
Florida Masonic Child ID Program was on hand to help parents make a CD of
their childs important information in the event that there was a time they would need
such a thing. We always pray that you will never need it, but in the event that you do,
this will expedite the process. The Masonic ID program IDs approximately ten
thousand kids annually.
There were many volunteers on hand to assist the families to include masons
form District One and Two and their spouses, University of West Floridas Sigma Ki,
Gulf Breeze High School Glee Club attend as volunteers to help with registration
and fishing on the Pier. Navarre Marine Science Station was on hand with their touch
tank animals and the children just could not stay away from the Horseshoe crab and
star fish. Their eyes would light up with amazement and wonder as each animal was
introduced and they were allowed to touch and pet them.
Overall the event was a great success and the sun shined on all of them Sunday.
There is something to be said about the face of a child when he or she catches a fish.
It simply warms the deepest part of your heart and makes the world a better place.

Florida Masonic Tag Approved

By The Legislature and Available!
The code to purchase: Freemasons Tag FQR

Naval Lodge No. 24 Adopts-A-Teacher

Submitted by W Harry Boyette Public Relations & Publicity/Citizenship

Daniel Parks of Naval Lodge No. 24 was proud to present Mrs. Jennifer Hausner a
check as the Lodges adopted Teacher of the Year. Ms. Jennifer was accompanied by
her husband David, daughter Emily, and parents Jake and Debbie Knight.
She thanked all the Brethren and took a few minutes to explain how she plans to use this
money. It was quite an eye opener for many that were present. A list that included art supplies,
math center games, laminating paper, file folders, print ink cartridges, just to name a few.
The kindergarten children had made a poster to present to the Members of the Lodge. It was
a large tree and the leaves with their hand prints and each had signed their name by their hand
print. Worshipful Dan assured Jennifer that it would be displayed so that all could enjoy.
Worshipful Dan stated that the Adopt-A-Teacher program has to be one of the best
programs going. It brings the Lodge into the classroom and Community, and sheds the Light Of
Masonry for all to see. Naval Lodge No. 24 plans on keeping this program around for a long time.

Secretary/Treasurer Workshop
Held at The Masonic Home

he Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Florida held a Secretary/

Treasurers Workshop at The Masonic Home in St. Petersburg on
October 25, 2014.
The itinerary for these workshops generally is a Friday night dinner
and social get together. Saturday morning light breakfast, morning
presentations, Lunch and afternoon presentations and wrap up.
On Sundays, one on one assistance with any subject by members of
Technology Committee and other qualified Brothers is provided.
(reservations for Sunday get together with subject must be made in
advance).
Although these seminars are intended for the Secretaries and
Treasurers, all Members and Officers of the Lodge are encouraged to
attend. Reservations are required. The Cost for Lodge Secretaries and
Treasurers will be $35.00 all others $45.00 to cover the cost of food and
supplies. Reservation forms will follow shortly.

Volume 7, Issue 2

The Florida Mason

Page 15

Expect Perfection - Settle For Excellence

GRAND LODGE F. & A. M. OF

FLORIDA
P.O. BOX 1020
Jacksonville, FL 32201-1020

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The Official Newsletter of The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Florida

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Volume 7, Issue 2

n May 20, 2014, at its

Stated Meeting, Dixie
Lodge No. 109, F.&.A.M.
Blountstown, Florida presented
Brother Rupert Brown the oldest
living Member of Dixie Lodge at
the young age of 103 years, with
his 65 Year Membership Certificate
and Pin.
The Lodge also presented 40
Year Pens and Certificates to
Brothers Billy Joe Hand and
Robert Cooner.

Dixie Lodge No. 109 Honors Oldest Living Member

And Others

Welcome To The Grand Lodge Of Florida