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Jackson-Coolidge Masonic Trestleboard
Volume No. 13 January 2013 Issue No. 1
George M. Otis P.M., Publisher
Stephen D. Vining P.M., Webmaster
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Jackson-Coolidge Masonic Center
Lodge Blue Room
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Jackson Lodge No. 17, F. & A.M.
Adam W. Wygant
Worshipful Master
517-745-1699
Greetings from the east.
Boy it actually sounds pretty good to say that for the first time. For those of you who were not able to join us, we had a wonderful installation in December. There were nearly 70 in attendance to observe the 165th annual installation of officers for Jackson Lodge No.17.
During the installation, during my closing remarks I spoke of scripture "as iron sharpens iron, so I brother sharpens a brother." Masonry makes good men better! During this year, we will continue to encourage one another as we work side-by-side to learn the craft, and exercise brotherly, love, relief, and truth. There are not many other organizations that seek to build each other up, defend each other, and sharpen one another. Masonry does.
Since installation I've been pondering how blessed we are to have had three people interested in the open junior deacon's chair, the fact that we have six stewards/conductors, and about six men who have submitted petitions who seek to join our craft. There is no doubt we will build on the past several great years on in our lodge, this year will be no exception. Each of us should be ample opportunity to practice our craft and enjoy ourselves greatly while doing it.
Brothers I trust that you had a Merry Christmas and a happy, safe new years eve. I look forward to rolling up my sleeves with you, and working in our ancient and honorable craft this year.
Thanks to the Worshipful Shea Brothers we will continue to have meals prior to our regular meetings. Thanks to Worshipful Brother Frank we will continue to learn the rest of the story, and we look to our new education officer worshipful Brother Lyman to instruct us in ancient and esoteric meanings within masonry. A goal for my year as Master is to dial back the mundane business that we must conduct, and amp up the enjoyment of the craft. The learning of the craft, the working of the craft, and simple enjoyment of Brothers on the level. Brothers please come and enjoy your lodge and your brothers in this new year.
Adam W. Wygant
Worshipful Master
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And so 2012 goes into the books! I'm not sure why, but it seems as though I had just wished all of you a blessed and happy New Year, and here it is; time to do it all again!
2012 was a very good year for the Craft in Michigan. On the close of business in 2011 we had on our books 36,171 members. As of today when I checked we have 36,658! Yes, you've got it right - by this we have a gain in membership. First time since 1959! And that is a very good reason to say that 2012 was a great year!
Congratulations to all of you for all you have done for Freemasonry in Michigan this year - and all you will do for the craft in 2013!
Have a wonderful 2013! and a safe and wonderful New Years!
God bless all of you, Bob Conley |
MASONIC SHORT TALKS
Frank W. Lutze P.M.
 
 
Worshipful Brother George's Monument Many years ago, during my senior (high school) trip I climbed the 897 steps to the top of the Washington Monument. I am sure at the time I was not aware of any Masonic connection to George Washington or the monument. Fast forward ½ a century and I, like all Freemasons, am aware of the fact that the first president of the United States was a Brother Mason. The monument, in honor of General, President, and Brother George Washington was completed in 1888. The cornerstone was layed with Masonic ritual and many grand lodges contributed funds to the project. At 555 feet tall it is 2 feet taller than the twin towers of the cathedral in Cologne, Germany and it is the tallest obelisk in the world. More than 36,000 blocks of marble and granite, weighting more than 90,000 tons were used in the construction of the monument. The wall thickness at the base is 15 feet. It is truly a testimony to the skills of our operative brethren. In 2009 Dan Brown wrote the novel "The Lost Symbol". I listened to the audio version of this book as I drove back and forth to work. The plot centers on the villain's quest for the masonic lost word. The capstone of the Washington monument is at the center of mystery. The 3,300 pound capstone is topped with an aluminum pyramid approximately 6 inches tall and weighing about 7 pounds. Each of the four sides has an inscription. Three of which contain dates and names related to the design and construction of the monument, however the fourth (east) side has an inscription of two Latin words, Laus Deo, with profoundly deep significance. As the first rays the morning sun illuminate the east face of the capstone the words begin to glow with intensity. Laus Deo ......... Praise be to God. IN THE GLORIOUS HOUR OF DAWNING by J.F. Clendening In the glorious hour of dawning
When the sun begins to peep
From above the farthest hilltops,
To arouse us from our sleep;
Then we pray to God our Master
To direct us through the day,
To avoid the trials and pitfalls
That assail us on our way. When the sun at high meridian,
The glory of the day,
Informs each weary pilgrim
That he's half along the way;
Then we turn to God all glorious
For strength to stand the test
That will give us welcome entry
In that dwelling of the Blest. The sun in the west at evening
Marks the closing of our day;
Then we cry to God our Father
And to Him humbly pray
For grace that's all sufficient,
For love that's all sublime,
That will guard us through the Valley
And bring us Home in time.
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Marshal's Message
George M. Otis P.M.
His Jewel is the Crossed Batons. The Marshal is the Lodge's Conductor or Master of Ceremonies.
The Marshal of a Masonic Lodge is an appointed officer of the Lodge. The Marshal is in some jurisdictions the "Director of Ceremonies". The Marshal's duties and principle role is the organization of processions and ensuring the correct precedence and etiquette in formal proceedings.
Brothers Senior Deacon, and Stewards are the ones necessary to the correct floor work during Lodge Degrees. Anyone wishing assistance in the "box formation" that we use or the correct way to lead the candidates around is welcome to call upon the Marshall, George M. Otis, P.M. to conduct a class on their floor work.
Fraternally yours,
George M. Otis, P.M.
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Stephen D. Vining P.M., Secretary Jackson Lodge No. 17, F. & A.M. Grand Lodge Region No. 4 Regional Grand Lecturer Grand Lodge of Michigan (517) 914-8400  2013 Thursday, January 3rd Jackson Lodge No. 17, F. & A.M. Officer Meeting, 7:00 p.m. Thursday, December 10th Jackson Lodge No. 17, F. & A.M. Regular Communication, 7:30 p.m. Lodge Dinner, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, January 17th Jackson Lodge No. 17, F. & A.M. Possible E.A. Practice and/or Movie Night To Be Announced Thursday, January 24th Jackson-Coolidge Masonic Temple Association Board of Trustee's Meeting, 6:00 p.m. Annual Meeting & Election of Officer's
Thursday, January 31st
Jackson Lodge No. 17, F. & A.M.
Entered Apprentice Degree, 7:00 p.m.
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W.B. Tommy R. Amidon P.M. is presented the Walter F. Wheeler Ritual Pin by Region #4 Regional Grand Lecturer Stephen D. Vining P.M. for his ritual work memorization of the E.A. and M.M. Degree second section lectures.
Jackson Lodge No. 17 Past Master Emil Teegardin (1981) returns to the lodge after a 25 year absence and is presented with the Grand Master pin of Most Worshipful Brother Dean A. Barr, Grand Master of Michigan Masons by Region #4 Regional Grand Lecturer Stephen D. Vining P.M.
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Lodge Dinner 
Menu To Be Announced Dinner will be at 6:30 p.m. prior to the Regular Communication. Come to lodge and enjoy the fellowship, dinner and meeting. All for a $5.00 donation to the Stewards Fund. Contact David G. Shea P.M., Junior Warden at 517-315-5982 |
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2013 Lodge Officer's
- Worshipful Master - Adam W. Wygant
- Senior Warden - Richard G. Shea P.M.
- Junior Warden - David G. Shea P.M.
- Treasurer - Dale D. Brown P.M.
- Secretary - Stephen D. Vining P.M.
- Chaplain - Frank W. Lutze P.M.
- Senior Deacon - David R. Brown
- Junior Deacon - Garry L. Gooldy Jr.
- Senior Steward - Eric J. Cole
- Senior Steward - Jeffrey R. Ohneck
- Junior Steward - Robert S. Webb Jr.
- Junior Steward - Andrew S. Marlow
- Steward/Conductor - Eric F. Dwyer
- Steward/Conductor - Martin A. Hemry
- Steward/Conductor - James W. Spink
- Marshal - George M. Otis P.M.
- Musician - Tommy R. Amidon P.M.
- Tiler - Lawrence C. Sanford Jr. P.M.
- Education Officer - Lyman S. Robertson Jr. P.M.
- Publisher - George M. Otis P.M.
- Webmaster - Stephen D. Vining P.M.
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None to report this past month.
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Masonic Degree Schedule
Entered Apprentice Degree Thursday, January 31st at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, February 7th at 7:00 p.m.
Fellowcraft Degree
Master Mason Degree ( None Scheduled ) |
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Jackson Chapter No. 3, R.A.M. |
Jackson Chapter No. 3
Royal Arch Mason's
Adam W. Wygant, E.H.P. 517-745-1699
Ronald L. Spees, Secretary 517-780-9387
Greetings Royal Arch Masons,
There is not a great deal to report this month, but we did have the honor of having the Right Excellent James M. Keifer, Grand King of Royal Arch Masons of Michigan visit our Chapter last month. He gave us good feedback and instruction. We enjoyed fellowship with Jim late into the evening, and it was nice to get to know him better. Now that Jackson is the Michigan leg of the Tri-State York Rite Festival, many of us will be participating in the festival during the last Saturday in February and the first Saturday in March. Please stay tuned for more information and let us know if you need a ride to the festival.
During our January regular convocation we may table our Chapter business to February in order to focus on our Council School of Instruction, but this will be contingent on any Royal Arch guests we may have.
Adam W. Wygant
Excellent High Priest
Calendar for January 2013 Wednesday, January 9th Jackson Chapter No. 3, R.A.M. Stated Convocation, 7:30 p.m. | Will Open & Close In Council This Month |
High Priest - Adam W. Wygant
King - Dale D. Brown PHP
Scribe - Marcus U. Blue, Jr
Treasurer - Dale D. Brown PHP
Secretary - Ronald L. Spees PHP
Captain of the Host - Stephen D. Vining
Principle Sojourner - Thomas E. Royce PHP
Royal Arch Captain - Michael E. Hicks PHP
Master of the 3rd Veil - Frank W. Lutze
Master of the 2nd Veil - David R. Brown
Master of the 1st Veil - Robert S. Webb
Sentinel - George M. Otis
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Jackson Council No. 32, R. & S.M.
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Jackson Council No. 32
Royal and Select Master's
Adam W. Wygant, T.I.M.
517-745-1699
Adam W. Wygant, Recorder
517-745-1699
Happy New Year Companions,
I am looking forward to serving this year as Thrice Illustrious Master. Jackson Council No. 32 R. & S.M. has a busy few months coming up this year. Our School of Instruction will be January 9th. We will be opening and closing on the Royal Master degree, therefore if you do not have the final degree (Super Excellent Master) that is ok, you can still come and watch. Please bring you purple books with you if you have them. Our Inspection will likely be in March on the same material, although I may seek to arrange a joint inspection with another Council. The joint schools of instruction and inspections seem to give a much needed opportunity to fellowship with other companions.
We still have approximately 8 companions who still need the Super Excellent Master degree, and we will look for an opportunity soon in the area. Jackson Council is back on the move, literally, we have a strong enough group of guys that the officer line appears to be moving in normal fashion again as men seek to learn new parts and advance. This is very exciting to see.
Hope to see as many of you companions as possible on January 9th as we continue our work so happily begun in the vault.
Adam W. Wygant
Thrice Illustrious Master
Calendar for January 2013
Wednesday, January 9th
Jackson Council No. 32, R. & S.M.
Stated Convocation, 7:30 p.m.
Council School of Instruction
We will be opening and closing on the Royal Master degree.
Therefore, if you do not have the final degree (Super Excellent Master) you can still come and watch and take part in the school.
| Will Open & Close In Council This Month |
Thrice Illustrious Master - Adam W. Wygant, TIM
Deputy Master - Stephen D. Vining
Pr. Conductor of the Work - Marcus U. Blue, Jr., PTIM
Treasurer - Thomas E. Royce, PTIM
Recorder - Adam W. Wygant
Captain of the Guard - George M. Otis
Conductor of Council - Michael E. Hicks, PTIM
Steward - Michael J. Conn, PTIM
Sentinel - Ronald L. Spees, PTIM
Chaplain - Dale D. Brown, PTIM
Marshall - Vacant
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Jackson Commandery No. 9, K.T.
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Jackson Commandery No. 9, K.T.
Lloyd C. Darling PC, Eminent Commander
517-795-3694
Michael E. Hicks, Recorder
517-787-8438
Calendar for January 2013
Monday, January 7th
Jackson Commandery No. 9, K.T.
| No Meeting Scheduled |
Monday, January 14th
Jackson Commandery No. 9, K.T.
Dinner, 6:00 p.m.
Will inventory property to prepare for hosting the
Michigan leg of the Tri-State York Rite festival to
take place on Saturday, March 2nd, 2013
Monday, January 21st
Jackson Commandery No. 9, K.T.
Stated Conclave, 7:30 p.m.
Potluck with Ladies, 6:30 p.m.
Monday, January 28th
Jackson Commandery No. 9, K.T.
| To Be Announced |
Right Eminent Grand Commander
Sir Knight Cortland C. Rule P.C.
Grand Commandery Knights Templar of Michigan with
S.K. Frank W. Lutze (left) and S.K. Michael J. Conn P.C. (right).
S.K. Conn is in his English Templar Regalia from England.
Commander - SK Lloyd A. Darling,KTCH, P.C.
Generalisimo - SK James H. Blauvelt, KTCH, P.C.
Captain General - SK Adam W. Wygant, P.C.
Sr. Warden - SK Paul M. Tarr Jr., P.C.
Jr. Warden - SK Ronald L. Spees
Prelate - SK Tommy R. Amidon, KTCH, P.G.C.
Treasurer - SK Harry E. Green, P.C.
Recorder - SK Michael E. Hicks
Standard Bearer - SK Richard E. Ward, P.C.
Sword Bearer - SK Stephen D. Vining
Warder - SK Kenneth D. Chandler, P.C.
Sentinel - SK Lewis M. Woodard, P.C.
1 Guard - SK Kenneth L. Sheffer, P.C.
2 Guard - SK David R. Brown
3 Guard - SK Marcus U. Blue, P.C.
1 Hermit - SK Thomas E. Royce
2 Hermit - SK Lloyd A. Darling,KTCH, P.C.
3 Hermit - SK Theodore E. Welch, P.C.
Director of Orders - SK Cortland C. Rule, P.G.C., P.C.
Director of Orders - SK Richard E. Ward, P.C.
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Jackson York Rite College No. 3 |
Jackson York Rite College No. 3, Y.R.S.C.N.A.
William B. Kesterson, Governor
517-262-6506
Timothy C. Forche, Secretary
517-676-5157
Next Meeting Date
Friday, January 18th, 2013
Stated Assembly, 7:30 p.m.
Please wear tuxedo.
2012-2013 Officers
William B. Kesterson - Governor
Michael E. Hicks - Deputy Governor
Stephen D. Vining - Chancellor
Theodore R. Welch - Treasurer
Timothy C. Forche - Secretary
Thomas E. Royce - Primate
William L. Leonard - Preceptor
Lloyd A. Darling - Seneschal
Paul M. Tarr, Jr. - Marshall
Barry L. Chapman - Sentinel
Calendar for 2013
Friday, January 18th, 2013 @ 7:30 p.m.
Friday, March 15th, 2013 @ 7:30 p.m.
Friday, May 17th, 2013 @ 7:30 p.m.
Friday, September 20th, 2013 @ 7:30 p.m.
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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
January 2013
Tuesday, January 1st
No Meeting, Dark in January
Tuesday, January 15th
No Meeting, Dark in January
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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
January 2013
Tuesday, January 8th
No Meeting, Dark in January
Tuesday, January 22nd
No Meeting, Dark in January
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To All Of The Masonic Bodies That Use
The Jackson-Coolidge Masonic Center
I have been looking into getting rid of the chairs in the Blue Room as they are very uncomfortable to sit in and many have complained about them. We would like to replace them with used Church Pews. I have found some that are in Zeeland, Michigan and being sold by a company that deals in used church furniture. The cost of the pews (padded in a light blue fabric), which is fitting in with the Blue Room theme. The cost is $275.00 for each 18 ft. pew. It would be great if the Brothers and Sisters that can afford it provide a pew. At this time we (The Temple Board) cannot afford to purchase them. Several of the bodies have donated funds towards the purchase as well as some individuals who have purchased a single pew. If purchased by a member we will put an engraved plate on the pew with the name and or in dedication to a past member, etc. Please contact the Building Manager, George M. Otis at 517-262-9862 or email me at gmotis@sbcglobal.net. Thank you for all that you have done for us in the past |
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Chart of York Rite Masonic Degrees
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Masonic Tail Light Stick On Emblems
Cost is $3.00 per set of Masonic emblems,
$5.00 per set of silver Past Master emblems and
$6.00 per set of gold Past Master emblems.
Contact Brother George Otis P.M.
Phone: 517-262-9862
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Masonic Emblem available in Silver only.
Past Master Emblem available in Silver or Gold |
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Temple Board Contact Information
Temple Board Meetings will be held on:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 at 6:00 p.m.
Annual Meeting & Officer Election
Thursday, February 28, 2013 at 6:00 p.m.
Thursday, March 28, 2013 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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Weekly Euchre Club
Every Monday evening at 7:00 p.m.
The Euchre Club at the Masonic Center is looking for substitutes for the current card season. If you are interested in filling in just show up on any Monday night and play cards.
The Euchre Club is also looking for card players to form teams for next years Euchre Club. If you are interested you can contact Jason Chalfant at 517-764-4608 or email him at jhchalfant@att.net for more info.
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Masonic Center Fund Raising
Jackson-Coolidge Masonic Temple Association
The Temple Board would like any input you might have on ideas for fund raising events. If you have any ideas or would like to help we ask that you contact either Jerry Bethel at 517-262-0147 or George Otis at 517-262-9862.
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SPECIAL MONETARY APPEAL
To All The Brethren of Jackson Lodge 17 and Masonic Bodies.
WE STILL NEED YOUR HELP!!!
Again we find ourselves asking for assistance in paying off the loan that we owe to Jackson Lodge 17.
The loan was made to help pay off what the Temple Board used to
cover the cost of the Massive Clean-up that was done way back in January, 2011.
While we did get some money from the bodies and individuals, it was only $7,400.00 and we still owe more than $72,600.00
PLEASE, contribute as liberally as you can without material injury to yourself or family!
Thank you!
Make your checks out to:
Jackson-Coolidge Masonic Temple Association
355 Napoleon Road
Michigan Center, Michigan 49254-1264
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© 2008-2013 Jackson-Coolidge Masonic Temple Association
Stephen D. Vining P.M., Webmaster
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