Jackson-Coolidge Masonic Trestleboard
Volume No. 11 June 2011 Issue No. 6 George M. Otis P.M., Publisher Stephen D. Vining P.M., Webmaster
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![key](http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs040/1103211070660/img/114.jpg?a=1105420191595)
Jackson Lodge No. 17, F. & A.M.
Greeting's From The East
![WM 17](http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs040/1103211070660/img/48.jpg?a=1105420191595) Frank W. Lutze Worshipful Master 517-563-8338 Dear , Ask, Seek, Knock - My quest for the Inner Door Some of you may have heard me recount bits and pieces of my quest for the Inner Door. If there is a typical way that a man finds his way to Masonry I believe that mine was anything but typical. My quest for the Inner Door actually began two years after I was born. That was the year that my father became a Master Mason. From an early age I recall the Square and Compass lapel pin that he wore on his suit coat whether he was going to the office, out to dinner on Saturday evening or church on Sunday. I never saw him without it. I proudly wear his pin to this day. There were evenings that my mother would say "Dad has Lodge tonight" to explain his absence. I can not recall how I learned that I wasn't to ask my father questions about Masonry or Lodge but I learned and I never did. As a youth I recall observing an encounter with the shoe salesman and my father in J. L. Hudson's department store. Somehow they recognized each other as Masons. I remember it as clearly as if it happened yesterday. (If you would like to hear the rest of this fascinating story .................just ask) I went away to college, married and had a family. During that time I learned that one of my father's favorite activities was attending High Twelve but I had no idea what that was and wasn't interested enough to inquire. I recall walking into a discussion between my father and a cousin, who is a Mason from New York state, and hearing my father say something about "visitors being required to knock". The discussion ended as I entered the room. I also recall another discussion where the cousin was encouraging my father to pursue York Rite or Scottish Rite. Years later, as my father neared the end of his battle with a debilitating illness, we had some memorable and deep father - son discussions but never did either of us bring up Masonry. As my mother and I sat with the funeral director to make final arrangements he revealed that he was a brother Mason. He asked if my mother wanted a Masonic memorial service. Fourteen years later (1998) and my mother had just passed away. I was sorting through a lifetime of accumulations from my parents. Tucked away in the back of a dresser drawer was my father's lambskin apron and Masonic Bible. I opened the Bible and learned the dates of his Initiation, Passing and Raising. I also learned that the cousin that I overheard discussing Masonry with my father had signed the page titled "visiting brethren". Neatly folded inside the Bible were two letters informing my father that he was to receive his Fellowcraft and Master Mason degrees. I also discovered a Master Mason certificate for my grandfather that had passed away before I was born. The year is 1998. Now my desire was clear but how to accomplish it. I remember hearing my father mention "knock" but where? Twice while out of state I saw the Square and Compasses on rings. I ask the men wearing them how do I join the Masons? They asked what state I was from and when I told them Michigan they said that they couldn't help me. I tried looking up Masonic Lodge in the phone book but that didn't provide much guidance.I saw a picture of a recently installed Worshipful Master in the Citizen Patriot, cut it out and kept it for a while trying to figure out my next step. Then I discovered the website for the Grand Lodge of Michigan. I filled out the online form and waited for a response. Nothing came, no one contacted me. Again I filled out the online form and soon Jerry Williams, Secretary - Jackson Lodge #17 was sitting at my kitchen table handing me a petition and a return envelop. The year was 2006. "Ask, and it shall be given you; Seek, and ye shall find; Knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For everyone who Asks receives, and he who Seeks finds, and to him who Knocks it shall be opened." Matthew 7:7~8 Fraternally, Frank W. Lutze Worshipful Master |
When Are You A Mason?
Wilbur D. Nesbit
When are you a Mason? When you go to Lodge If there is a meeting That you cannot dodge? When you wear your button? When still up you climb? The way to be a Mason Is to be one all the time.
When are you a Mason? When there's fun and feast, Or when you can bolster With a word at least Some poor devil's spirits! The real help you give. The way to be a Mason Is to be one as you live.
When are you a Mason? When some gossip spreads Of another brother, Are you the one who heads Off the hurtful babble, And helps make things right? The way to be a Mason Is to be one day and night.
When are you a Mason?
Brother, you and I
Can make great the Order
As the days go by,
Through each word and action,
Through each song and smile:
The way to be a Mason
Is to be one all the while!
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From The Secretary's Desk
![apron](http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs040/1103211070660/img/127.gif?a=1105420191595)
Brother's,
Here are the results of the Grand Lodge Annual Communication on May 24 & 25, 2011.
This is a recap of the legislation only. A more extensive report will be delivered to the Lodge secretaries by the Grand Secretary later in the summer.
Election of Officers:
Elected to the open chair:
Joshua Wookwyk, PM, Doric # 342 in Grand Rapids
Grand Master:
Frederick E. Kaiser Jr., Berkley Lodge # 536
The Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation elected the following as trustees:
Ronald Jelinek, Three Oaks Lodge # 2 3 9
Archie Canterbury, Mt. Morris Lodge # 535
Amendment # 1
Allowing Life Membership from another jurisdiction:
Passed
Amendment # 2
Out of order
Amendment # 3
Out of order
Amendment # 4
Out of order
Amendment # 5
Mileage and Per Diem would be determined by the Finance Committee, failed.
Amendment # 6
Change to the Grand Masters Authority as it regards individual Masons, Passed.
Amendment # 7
Change to the Grand Masters Honorarium, passed.
Amendment # 8
Background Check Legislation, failed.
Amendment # 9
Change to non payment of dues suspension and reinstatement process, failed.
Resolution # 1
Optional Charge, failed.
Resolution # 2
Out of order
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Grand Lodge District News
Most Worshipful Master Frederick E. Kaiser Jr., P.M.
Visit to Parma Lodge No. 183, F. & A.M.
The Most Worshipful Grand Master and his entourage will be at the Stated Communication of Parma Lodge No. 183, 100 W. Main Street in Parma on Tuesday, June 14th, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.
Worshipful Master Roger A. Farmer of Parma Lodge No. 183 extends an invitation to all Lodges to come and join them for this auspicious occasion in honor of Most Worshipful Brother Frederick E. Kaiser Jr. and the appointment of Parma's Worshipful Brother Russell T. Chapel P.M. as a Grand Steward. |
![W.M. East](http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs040/1103211070660/img/73.jpg?a=1105420191595)
Jackson-Coolidge Masonic Center Lodge Blue Room
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Stephen D. Vining P.M., Secretary
Jackson Lodge No. 17, F. & A.M.
Region No. 4 Grand Lecturer
Grand Lodge of Michigan
(517) 914-8400
![june](http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs040/1103211070660/img/139.gif?a=1105420191595)
2011
Thursday, June 2nd, 2011 17-1/2 (Social Evening), 7:00 p.m. Membership Committee Meeting Sunday, June 5th, 2011 Jackson Rose Parade Float Line Up, 10:30 a.m. Parade Start, 1:00 p.m. Party In The Park after the Rose Parade. Any help is needed and appreciated. Thursday, June 9th, 2011 No Dinner This Week Regular Communication, 7:30 p.m. Special Short Talk by the W.M. Those in attendance will get a lapel pin Thursday, June 16th, 2011 Annual Strawberry Festival and Membership Awards Dinner, 6:00 p.m. Past Master's will confer the Fellowcraft Degree, 7:30 p.m. | Officer's & Degree Team should wear tuxedo or dark suit | Call J.W. Adam Wygant for reservation at 517-745-1699 Friday, June 17th, 2011
Kids Fest at America One Building
Jackson County Fairgrounds
Michigan Child Identification Program
12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Any help is needed and appreciated.
LODGE WILL BE DARK JULY & AUGUST
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Annual Strawberry Festival And Awards Dinner | Prior to Degree |
Thursday, June 16th, 2011 Annual Strawberry Festival and Membership Awards Dinner, 6:00 p.m. Past Master's will confer the Fellowcraft Degree, 7:30 p.m. Dinner will consist of Chicken Cordon Bleu, Salad, Yeast Rolls and Butter, Au Gratin Potatoes, Mixed Vegetables, Strawberry Shortcake with Whipped Cream Contact Adam W. Wygant, Junior Warden
517-745-1699 or you can email him at [email protected] |
2011 Line of Officer's
- Frank W. Lutze, Worshipful Master
- Lyman S. Robertson Jr, Senior Warden
- Adam W. Wygant, Junior Warden
- Dale D. Brown PM, Treasurer
- Stephen D. Vining PM, Secretary
- George M. Otis PM, Chaplain
- Richard G. Shea PM, Senior Deacon
- David G. Shea PM, Junior Deacon
- Eric J. Cole, Senior Steward
- Andrew S. Marlow, Junior Steward
- R. Todd Rubert PM, Marshal
- Thomas E. Royce PM, Tiler
- George M. Otis PM, Publisher
- Stephen D. Vining PM, Webmaster
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Jackson Chapter No. 3, R.A.M. |
![HP](http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs040/1103211070660/img/136.jpg?a=1105420191595)
Jackson Chapter No. 3, R.A.M.
Michael E. Hicks, E.H.P. 517-787-8438
Ronald L. Spees, Secretary 517-780-9387
Calendar for the month of June 2011
Wednesday, June 8th, 2011
Stated Convocation, 7:30 p.m.
(Will Open & Close In Council This Month)
July and August 2011
Chapter will be DARK
High Priest - Michael E. Hicks
King - Adam W. Wygant
Scribe - Marcus U. Blue, Jr., P.H.P
Treasurer - Dale D. Brown, P.H.P
Secretary - Ronald L. Spees
Captain of the Host - Stephen D. Vining
Principal Sojourner - Thomas E. Royce, P.H.P
Royal Arch Captain - Dale D. Brown, P.H.P
Master of the 3rd Veil - R. Todd Rubert
Master of the 2nd Veil - Joe R. Poston
Master of the 1st Veil - Eric J. Cole Sentinel - George M. Otis
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Jackson Council No. 32, R. & S.M. |
Jackson Council No. 32, R. & S.M.
Ronald L. Spees, T.I.M.
517-780-9387
Adam W. Wygant, Recorder
517-796-4661
Calendar for the month of June 2011
Wednesday, June 8th, 2011 Stated Convocation, 7:30 p.m.
| Will Open In Council This Month |
July and August 2011
Council will be DARK
Thrice Illustrious Master - Ronald L. Spees
Deputy Master - Dale D. Brown, P.T.I.M.
Pr. Conductor of the Work - Marcus U. Blue, Jr., P.T.I.M.
Treasurer - Thomas E. Royce, P.T.I.M.
Recorder - Adam W. Wygant Captain of the Guard - Eric J. Cole Conductor of Council - Michael E. Hicks Steward - Stephen D. Vining Sentinel - Vacant Chaplain - Thomas E. Royce, P.T.I.M. Marshall - Vacant
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Jackson Commandery No. 9, K.T.
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Jackson Commandery No. 9, K.T.
Adam W. Wygant, Eminent Commander
517-745-1699
Michael E. Hicks, Recorder
517-787-8438
Commander's Corner
As the new Commander of Jackson Commandery No. 9, I would like to thank all of the Sir Knights and Ladies in attendance for our 152nd Open Installation of Officers on April 18th. The attendance and support was great, and there were visiting Sir Knights from Adrian No. 4, Lansing No. 25, and Muskegon No. 22. The attendance by knights from Muskegon No. 22 and Right Eminent Past Grand Commander Seyferth made the evening very special for me, knowing that these men from my home town made the trip to support our Commandery.
Jackson York Rite is alive and well here in our town. If you belong to a Blue Lodge in the area and wish to obtain further Light in Masonry please contact us. There is a common slogan in the York Rite, which is "Every Christian Mason should be a Knights Templar." Indeed, this would be a great to see and it would be interesting to see what acts of charity and benevolence could be accomplished in greater numbers in our country and world. In the early 1900's it was not uncommon to see over 2000 Sir Knights marching in the parade here in Jackson. The knights formed a giant passion cross, with horse mounted knights, Templar band, and color guard marching ahead. Sadly, we are a long way from those days, but the York Rite is robust and growing again. It is an interesting correlation of the growth of Free Masonry during periods when times are tough. Amid all of the materialism of our world, men still seek comfort in being part of something more meaningful, and look for ways to help others. It just feels good to anchor to something timeless like the tenants of Templary, and to fraternize with men you know have similar values. So it is with much anticipation that we look forward to the upcoming year in Jackson Commandery No. 9. Drilling and practice is already under way in preparation for a busy fall, which will see the creation of 5 new Sir Knights and culminate with our annual inspection and banquet on November 7th.
Adam W. Wygant
Eminent commander
Calendar for the month of June 2011
Monday, June 6th, 2011 at 7:00 p.m.
Order of Red Cross and Order of Malta
Sir Knights, please attend in full uniform. Contact Commander if you are interested in participating in the Orders. Please come to support our 5 new candidates as they begin the Commandery Orders
Monday, June 13th, 2011 at 7:00 p.m.
School of Instruction
(Joint School with Adrian No. 4)
Sir Knights, please be in full Templar dress (dark pants, shoes, white shirt, black tie, sword) minus uniform jacket. Please attend this School of Instruction as important preparation for fall inspection and Order of Temple ceremonies next fall
Monday, June 20th, 2011Stated Conclave, 7:30 p.m. Potluck with Ladies, 6:30 p.m.
Monday, June 27th, 2011
Commandery will be DARK this week
July and August 2011
Commandery will be DARK
Commander: Adam W. Wygant Generalisimo: James H. Blauvelt, P.C. Captain General: Lloyd A. Darling, P.C. Sr. Warden: Paul M. TarrJr., P.C. Jr. Warden: Cortland C. Rule, P.C. Prelate: Stephen D. Vining Treasurer: Harry E. Green, P.C. Recorder: Michael E. Hicks Standard Bearer: Richard E. Ward, P.C. Sword Bearer: Theodore E. Welch, P.C. Warder: Kenneth D. Chandler, P.C. Sentinel: Lewis M. Woodard, P.C. 1 Guard: Marcus U. Blue, P.C. 2 Guard: Barry L. Chapman 3 Guard: Kenneth L. Sheffer, P.C. 1 Hermit: Thomas E. Royce 2 Hermit: Dale D. Brown 3 Hermit: Theodore E. Welch, P.C.
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Jackson York Rite College No. 3 |
![Tarr](http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs040/1103211070660/img/146.jpg?a=1105420191595)
Jackson York Rite College No. 3
Paul M. Tarr Jr., Governor
517-285-5757
Timothy C. Forche, Secretary
517-676-5157
Friday, September 16th
Stated Meeting 7:30 p.m.
Friday, October 14th
Order of the York Degree 7:30 p.m.
2011-2012 Officers
Governor - Paul M. Tarr, Jr.
Deputy Governor - William B. Kesterson
Chancellor - Michael E. Hicks
Treasurer - Theodore E. Welch
Secretary - Timothy C. Forche
Primate - Stephen D. Vining
Preceptor - William Leonard
Seneschal - Lloyd A. Darling
Marshall - Lewis M. Woodard
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Fern Leaf Chapter No. 66, O.E.S.
Gail Kirk, Worthy Matron 517-782-4427
Ellen Yoakam, Secretary
517-536-0643
Calendar for the month of June 2011
Tuesday, June 7th Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, June 21st Stated Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
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Jackson Assembly No. 7, I.O.R.G. |
Jackson Assembly No. 7, I.O.R.G.
Brandy Kuhl, Mother Advisor 517-522-4349
Calendar for the month of June 2011
Tuesday, June 14th - Stated Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, June 28th - Rainbow Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
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Jackson High Twelve Club No. 16 | ![High12](http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs040/1103211070660/img/11.gif?a=1105420191595)
Jackson High Twelve Club No. 16
Michael E. Hicks, President
517-787-8438
Darrell G. Kesterson, Secretary
517-563-2902
Calendar 2011
Meetings are held every Monday
of the month at 12:00 noon at the
Cascades Manor House
1970 Kibby Road
Jackson, MI 49203
Cost for meal is $10.00 per person
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South Central Scottish Rite Club |
South Central Scottish Rite Club Michael E. Hicks, President
517-787-8438
No meeting information available.
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Chart of York Rite Masonic Degrees
![York Rite](http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs040/1103211070660/img/56.jpg?a=1105420191595)
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SPECIAL MONETARY APPEAL
Brothers of Jackson Lodge No. 17, F. & A.M. Companions of Jackson Chapter No. 3, R.A.M. Companions of Jackson Council No. 32, R. & S.M. Sir Knights of Jackson Commandery No. 9, K.T. Companion Sir Knights of Jackson York Rite College No. 3 Sisters of Fern Leaf Chapter No. 66, O.E.S.
We have just completed a massive project at our Masonic Center in Michigan Center. We had to do the following:
- Clean the entire building and replace the furnaces. Install new rooftop heating and air conditioning units with new air ducts.
- Throw away a lot of items that are of little use to us anymore.
- New Hanging Sign out front and in the very near future a new Masonic/York Rite/Eastern Star lighted sign on the building.
We now have a more efficient building that we all can be proud of.
COSTLY - YES BUT NECESSARY $80,000.00 WE NEED YOUR HELP!!! PLEASE, contribute as liberally as you can without material injury to yourself or family! Thank you for your support!
Jackson-Coolidge Masonic Temple Association Make your checks out to: Jackson-Coolidge M.T.A. 355 Napoleon Rd. Michigan Center, Michigan 49254-1264
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Masonic Tail Light Stick On Emblems
Cost is $3.00 per set of emblems
Contact Brother George Otis P.M.
Phone: 517-262-9862
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![Tail Light](http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs040/1103211070660/img/25.jpg?a=1105420191595)
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Temple Board Contact Information
Temple Board Meetings will be held on:
Thursday, June 23, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, July 28, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, August 25, 2011 at 6:00 p.m.
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Jerry L. Bethel, President
phone: 517-262-0147
George M. Otis, Secretary phone: 517-262-9862
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Special Note To The Brethren
Member's of all Jackson-Coolidge Masonic Bodies
We are in need of your email address for transmitting the electronic version of the Jackson/Coolidge MTA Trestleboard on a monthly basis. It is becoming more expensive to produce the Trestleboard due to rising postal rates and the cost to make the printed copies. (We usually print about 300 copies). If you would still like to receive it by mail that is fine too. Just let us know your preference.
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Call or email Stephen D. Vining, P.M.
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� 2009-2011 Jackson-Coolidge Masonic Temple Association
Stephen D. Vining P.M., Webmaster
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Banquet
Table
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We are still in need of donations for the banquet tables.
Please contribute if you are able. Make check payable to:
Jackson Lodge No. 17
and send to
Jackson Lodge #17 MTA Fund P.O. Box 1309
Jackson MI 49204-1309 |
Your Help Is Needed and Appreciated. Thank you. |
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