See Article on Page 10

Official Publication of the Grand Lodge of Georgia, Free & Accepted Masons August 2014

2 / August 2014

Grand Lodge OfficersGrand Master Edgar M. Land (81)822 Tails Creek Road Ellijay, GA 30540E-mail: edgarland@ellijay.com 706-273-0665

Deputy Grand Master Douglas W. McDonald (141)P. O. Box 396 Cornelia, GA 30531E-mail: dmcdsr@hemc.net 706-778-7178Senior Grand Warden F. A. “Drew” Lane, Jr. (182)P. O. Box 1534 Dallas, GA 30132E-mail: drewlane11@bellsouth.net 770-317-0010

Grand Treasurer Bobby B.Simmons (111, 756)203 Williams Drive Bonaire, GA 31005Email: bnsimmons81@bellsouth.net 813-391-9616

Grand Secretary Joseph “Joe” W. Watson (298)811 Mulberry Street Macon, GA 31201-6779E-mail: fam2@bellsouth.net Office: 478-742-1475

Grand Chaplain Thomas E. “Eddie” Gurley (182)P. O. Box 278 Dallas, GA 30132egurley1997@gmail.com 770-480-9937

Grand Marshal James Timothy “Tim” Ingram (220)P. O. Box 831 Jasper, GA 30143tingram@piolaxusa.com 770-547-0229

Grand Orator Floyd Edmondson (81)137 Greenwood Ford Ellijay, GA 30143 fedmondson@ellijay.com 706-273-4245

Junior Grand Warden Gary H. Leazer (99, 262, 744)3318 Mansfield Ln. Snellville, GA 30039E-mail: garyleazer44@gmail.com 770-851-0997

Senior Grand Deacon Larry W. Nichols (59)5500 Interstate Pkwy, Ste. 415 Atlanta, GA 30328E-mail: lnichols@lwncpa.com 404-735-3544

Junior Grand Deacon Michael H. Wilson (6, 84)3655 Jensen Ct. Loganville, GA 30052E-Mail: mike.wilson@wilsonroofingcompany.com 678-410-0833

First Grand Steward Johnie M. Garmon (114)P. O. Box 1921 Blairsville, GA 30514garmon1@windstream.net 706-781-9565

Second Grand Steward Jan M.Giddens (33)2897 Huntclift Drive Marietta, GA 30066giddensj@comcast.com 678-232-4115

Grand Tyler F. Keith Hales (220)76 Scott Drive Jasper, GA 30143keith658@ellijay.com 770-894-1370

Grand Teasurer Emeritus Samuel R. Whitfield (323)171 Concord Road, S.E. Smyrna, GA 30082-3909

Grand Secretary Emeritus James E. Underwood, PGM (367)150 Spring Creek Road Canton, GA 30115

Third Grand Steward Donald C. Combs (46)1262 Meadow Lane SE Darien, GA 31305 don_combs@juno.com 478-235-3750

MASONIC MESSENGER Vol. 98 AUGUST 2014 No. 4

Grand Lodge Office: 478-742-1475Please send changes of address to theGrand Secretary at 811 Mulberry Street,

Macon, GA 31201-6779 on your lodgesecretary’s monthly report. The editordoes NOT keep the list of addresses.

Dr. Gary Leazer, Editor (99, 262, 744)3318 Mansfield Lane Snellville, GA 30039-4631

Cell: 770/851-0997E-mail: garyleazer44@gmail.com

Dr. F. Lamar Pearson, Editor Emeritus

Publications CommitteeRoss Laver, Chairman Home: 770-489-1864E-mail: rosslaver@masonicmessenger.com

Paul E. Wells Lawrence Anderson David L. Canaday

Published bi-monthly at 811 Mulberry Street, Macon, GA 31201. TheMessenger goes to all Masons holding membership in Georgia Lodges.

Subscription $10.00 domestic, $16.00 foreign per yearADVERTISING RATES ON APPLICATION

CIRCULATION 50,000

Grand Secretary Emeritus Donald I. DeKalb (111) P. O. Box 6068 Warner Robbins, GA 31095

Grand Treasurer Emeritus Merrill L. Clark, Sr. (200) P. O. Box 129 Shady Dale, GA 31085

— FROM GRAND MASTER EDGAR M. LANDBeloved Brethren:

It is truly amazing how fast this yearhas seemed to pass. Although ten monthshave passed, it only seems like yesterdaythat I was sworn in as your Grand Mas-ter on the “Ogelthorpe Bible!” I willnever forget the generosity of Solomon’sNo. 1, F. & A.M. for bringing the Bibleto Macon and allowing the use of it bythe Grand Lodge.

The Good Lord has given me theopportunity to make 61 visits over thelast two months. Each visit has been trulymemorable. Our recent travels have in-cluded the Imperial Shrine Session inMinneapolis, Minnesota, as guests of thevarious Shrine Temples in Georgia; theSoutheastern Masonic Conference inBaton Rouge, Louisiana; the Florida,Georgia, and Alabama Tri-State Meet-ing in Dothan, Alabama along with someDistrict Conventions. The Grand Mas-ter of South Carolina hosted the annualGeorgia-South Carolina night in Charles-ton, SC in June at which we had a greattime. I visited the annual sessions of theGeorgia Order of the Eastern Star andthe International Rainbow Assembly ofGirls. I was represented at the DemolayConclave by Right Worshipful BrotherF. Drew Lane since I had committed toattend our first MELD Leadership Con-ference at Yaarab Shrine Center, in At-lanta. The Conference was an astound-ing success due to the hard work ofmany Brethren together with the YaarabTemple generosity. I am so grateful toYaarab Shrine and the Divan for allow-ing us to hold the conference in their fa-cility at no cost to our Grand Lodge.(As a side note, if any of you Brethrenwant to become a Scottish Rite Masonand/or a Shriner, November 7-8 is agreat opportunity to do so for a veryreasonable fee. Contact the Atlanta Scot-tish Rite or Yaarab Shrine Temple formore details.)

Please remember the Dedication ofthe “Children’s Garden” at the Masonic

Home in Macon on September 6. OurSuperintendent, Wor. Bro. John Snipes,suggested earlier this year having a “Ma-sonic Family Day” instead of a regularwork day. Every Mason is invited tocome share the day with our children,get to know them better and have lunchwith them. The festivities will begin at10:00 a.m., with the dedication of theGarden starting at 11:00 a.m. Local andstate dignitaries have been invited tospeak. The ceremony will be concludedby the Grand Lodge Line dedication ofthe Garden. Afterwards, an enjoyablefree picnic will be provided, with anopportunity to visit and fellowship foras long as you would like.

As we enter the last two months ofour Grand Lodge year, I look forwardwith great excitement to the remainingtime to be spent with the Masons andfamilies of Georgia. My plans are to at-tend the Grand Lodge sessions of Ken-tucky and North Carolina. We have threemore District Conventions, a couple ofoutdoor meetings, the Grand Master’sDay at the Apple Festival Parade in Ellijay,GA, on October 18 sponsored byYaarab Shrine Temple and CoosawatteeShrine Club. You are cordially invitedto attend and enter a parade “float.” Ifyou are unable to prepare a “float”, con-

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The Grand Master does not ask the Brethren of Georgiato do something he would not do.

Pickens Star Lodge No. 220 held their fifth quarterly blooddrive on Friday, August 15. A total of thirty-six units of bloodwere collected. The total to date of units collected by PickensStar Lodge is 168 units which will or have benefited over 500individuals. The blood drives have been supported by mem-bers of the local lodges, Order of the Eastern Star and alsothe community. Pictured is Most Worshipful Grand MasterEdgar M. Land donating his unit of blood.

Grand Master Donates His Blood

tact Coosawattee Shrine Club to find other ways to partici-pate. We will next “Land” in Macon the last weekend in Oc-tober for our Grand Lodge Session.

Finally, my Brethren, I sincerely hope each of you will beable to attend our Grand Lodge Session, October 28-29. Muchplanning and preparation continues so let’s join together tomake this the largest attended Grand Lodge Session in memory.I have no doubt that each of you will thoroughly enjoy beingin Macon and fellowshipping with Brother Masons from eacharea of our State. More details will follow in the Octoberissue of The Messenger.

I want to express my sincere appreciation to each mem-ber of your Grand Lodge Line for making so many sacrificesand being so dedicated this year. I have never seen a GrandLine work any harder than your Grand Line has worked thisyear. Grand Line Brethren, I thank each of you and pray foryou on a daily basis that God will continue to bless you in allyour endeavors. It is my hope that each Mason will also prayfor the Grand Line Brethren. We are in the “home stretch”and have so many additional lodges to visit, that we need allthe divine guidance we can get.

Brethren I thank each of you for all you have done forour Fraternity this year. Many of you work so hard and gofar beyond the “call of duty.” Although I may not have theopportunity to thank each of you personally, or mention yourname in writing, I do sincerely appreciate you, and wish youthe very best.

Cordially and fraternally,Edgar M. Land

Grand Master Edgar M. Land is introduced at Blue RidgeLodge No. 67 by Wor. Bros. Tim Ingram, Grand Marshal;Eddie Gurley, Grand Chaplain; and Jan Giddens, SecondGrand Steward. The visit to Blue Ridge Lodge on Fridayevening always kicks off the Rock Quarry Degree weekendon the 4th Saturday in August.

Grand Master Land poses with veterans attending BlueRidge Lodge on Friday, August 22. Among the veterans at-tending were Past Grand Masters Jerry D. Moss and BobbyB. Simmons. Most Worshipful Bro. Simmons serves the GrandLodge as Grand Treasurer.

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Civil War Apron Returns Home after 150 YearsThe history of the Civil War has special meaning to

Freemasons. Story after story recount events where theobligation of a Freemason to all brothers transcend the horrorsof war. When cities, towns and villages were occupied by

opposing forces, sentries were often posted to protect aMasonic Lodge Building. When lodges were pillaged byinvading forces, officers often ordered that the furniture oflodge be returned or placed in the care of a localresident. On the battlefield, wounded and dyingsoldiers identified themselves to enemy troops whosaw to it that they received medical care or collectedthe belongings of those who would not surviveto make sure that those personal items might makeit back to loved ones.

Now, 150 years after the Atlanta Campaignand the burning of Atlanta, the fraternal lovedemonstrated during the conflict is still alive. It isalive through the kindness of a third generationdescendant who wanted to see to it that somethingMasonic was returned.

Early in July, Right Worshipful Brother Joseph Watson,Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Georgia, received acall from James Johnston, husband of Penny Johnston. TheJohnstons reside in Glade Water, Texas, but Ms. Penny wasborn in Michigan. The Johnstons informed Bro. Watson thatthey had an apron that was found by Penny’s Great, Great,Great Grandfather as the Union Army was leaving Atlantaafter the siege.

On Thursday, July 24, the Johnstons arrived at the AtlantaMasonic Center to return that Apron 150 years after AtlantaCampaign. Mrs. Johnston did what so many brothers did

during the war by returningfraternal regalia to the lodge.A note on the back of theframe states. “After the civilwar this Masonic apron wasbrought back by my Great-Grandfather Capt. MindrusWhitney a 32nd degree Masonfrom Cedar Springs Michigan.When Atlanta was burned hefound this apron in the muddyroad just outside of Atlanta.”The note was signed “DorothyM. Jacobs”

Mindrus H. Whitney was anofficer in the 14th Regiment,Michigan Volunteer Infantry.Penny related informationfrom her GrandmotherDorothy Johnson. “The nightthat they burnt Atlanta, theywere leaving out and he sawthis Apron in the road, amuddy road, and he being a32° Mason knew what it was;so he picked it up and broughtit home. When my dad toldus this story after mygrandmother passed away, Itold my dad that I would liketo have the Apron” Fightingoff tears she continued “I said,‘One day, I would like to takeit back home.’”

A monument to Mindrus H.Whitney, bearing the Squareand Compasses stands todayin Elmwood Cemetary in

Cedar Springs, Michigan.The Johnstons made the 675 mile trip for the exclusive

purpose of returning the apron. The presentation was madeto Most Worshipful Brother C. Danny Wofford, Past GrandMaster of Masons in Georgia, who serves as Curator for theAtlanta Masonic Library and Museum Association. The Apronwas in a frame which Ms. Penny said was at least 60 years old.

(Continued next page)

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Brother Wofford said that the frame was frail and wouldhave to be replaced. The apron appeared to be in very goodcondition.

After presenting the Apron the Johnstons took theopportunity to visit several Civil War Sites before returninghome. At the Ocmulgee National Monument in Macon theyposed with re-enactors dressed in Union Uniforms afterwatching the firing of cannon. After visiting Camp Sumtermilitary prison at Andersonville (Andersonville NationalHistoric Site) Mrs. Johnston said, “Yes we did makeAndersonville. My words cannot describe it.”

Once removed from the framethere is hope that some thing on theapron will reveal the name orlocation of the original owner of theapron.

“After the civil war this Masonicapron was brought back by my Great-Grandfather Capt. Mindrus Whitney a32nd degree Mason from Cedar Springs,Michigan. When Atlanta was burned hefound this apron in the muddy road justoutside of Atlanta.”

— Dorothy M. Jacobs

(Continued from previous page)

On Saturday, January 11, the brothers of Flint Hill Lodge,No. 371 arrived at the Lodge Building in Southwest DouglasCounty for a public installation of Officers. Past Grand Master,C.E. (Buster) Horne was there to officiate along with W.B.Bruce Gunnin who would serve as Grand Marshal. Enteringthe building, there were muddy footprints in the fellowshiparea which caused concern. It wasn’t until the brothers ascendedthe stairs to the lodge room that the real problem wasdiscovered. The Three Great Lights were not in their usualplace on the Holy Altar. A search yielded nothing. The ownerof the muddy footprints had, no doubt, stolen the Three GreatLights. Another Bible was found and the installation proceeded.

The first meeting of the year would be 2 days later onJanuary 13. Knowing that Fulton Lodge, No. 216 had the Square& Compasses that were Sheldon Little’s, Wor. Bro. Ross Laverasked the Master of Fulton Lodge, Wor. Bro. Alvin Hazan ifFlint Hill Lodge could use Br. Little’s Lights for the meetingwhile replacements were being purchased. Wor. Bro. Hazanagreed and the first meeting of 2014 was opened with SheldonLittle’s Square and Compasses on the Altar.

At the meeting, the missing Lights were discussed. No onewanted to believe that a Bible, Square and Compasses had beenstolen. Mac Cochran, Past Master of Goshen Lodge No. 71was present and mentioned that Goshen Lodge had an extraBible that had been donated there and that he would ask GoshenLodge to donate that Bible to Flint Hill. Today, that Bible adorns

The Traveling Lightsthe place of honor in a Lodge, the Holy Altar.

Many of us have had the pleasure of watching Wor. Bro.Sheldon Little, 33°, present the Staircase Lecture of theFellowcraft degree. Sheldon traveled Georgia and visited manylodges. He was probably the most sought after presenter of

the Staircase Lecture. Looking at hisSquare and Compasses on the Altarat Flint Hill Lodge it becameapparent that Sheldon’s travels hadnot ended with his passing. The Lights now travel with aBrother of Fulton Lodge whenpossible. With permission of theMaster of the Lodge, Sheldon’sLights rest upon the Holy Alter forthat meeting. The Square andCompasses have now rejoinedSheldon’s personal Masonic Biblewhich was donated by Wor. Bro.

Randy Hazan. A passport book has been created which travelswith the Lights so that the travels of Sheldon Lights can bechronicled.

This story has no end as long as there is a lodge of Free &Accepted Masons in Georgia. The beginning is a sad story ofgreed that turned into demonstrations of the best of menand the Masonic Fraternity.

Sheldon Little

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6 / August 2014

Webb Lodge No. 166 in Augusta hosted the TenthMasonic District Convention June 14. Wor. Bro. JamesHuggins, District Worshipful Master, and his officers openedthe Convention at 10:00 in the York Rite Room in the MasonicTemple on Wrightsboro Road.

Most Worshipful Brother Edgar M. Land was found inwaiting and warmly received by the Brethren. He introducedhis Grand Lodge officers who were present: Right WorshipfulBro. Douglas W. McDonald, Deputy Grand Master; RightWorshipful Bro. F. Drew Lane, Jr., Senior Grand Warden;Right Worshipful Bro. Gary Leazer, Junior Grand Warden;Right Worshipful Bro. Joseph W. Watson, Grand Secretary;Wor. Bro. Thomas Eddie Gurley, Grand Chaplain; Wor. Bro.Timothy “Tim” Ingram, Grand Marshal; Wor. Bro. JohnieM. Garmon, First Grand Steward; and Wor. Bro. Donald C.Combs, Third Grand Steward.

Wor. Bro. Richard Williamson, Senior Warden of WebbLodge, welcomed all to the Convention, in the absence of

Webb Lodge hosts Tenth Masonic District ConventionW o r s h i p f u lMaster Jack P.Goldenberg.

Wor. Bro.H u g g i n shighlighted thework in theDistrict for thepast year.

Wor. Bro. M.Steven Fishmanannounced thatover one-third ofall blood donatedthis year throughthe MasonicBlood Drive wasfrom 10th District

lodges. Asof June14, hereported3,366 unitshad beendonated this year; 16,716 units since the Masonic BloodDrive began.Wor. Bro. James Bucky Summers was presented the

E. Alton Rogers Award. Wor. Bro. Rogers attended53 consecutive District Conventions during hislifetime.Wor. Bro. Tom Bell, District Deputy Master and

Treasurerof Tennille LodgeNo. 256,a n n o u n c e dTennille Lodgewould host the2015 Conventionon June 13.

M o s tWorshipful Bro.Land installed theC o n v e n t i o nofficers. TheGrand Mastergave his addressand then closed theConvention.

After a finelunch, the Brethrentraveled a few miles to Martinez Lodge No. 710 for thededication of its cornerstone.

Wor. Bro. Tom Bell takes his obligation asDistrict Master.

Gand Master Edgar M. Land is introduced by the 10th Dis-trict Deputies.

Grand Master Land addresses the Conven-tion.

Wor. Bro. James Huggins, District Wor-shipful Master, addresses the Convention.

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Roger Lacey No. 722 Raises 3 Master Masons

The Brethren of Roger Lacey Lodge No. 722 are proudof their three newest Master Masons. Pictured are Wor. Mas-ter Chris Barnes, James G. Kanicki, Daniel Allen Ray andTony Landen Vickery.

Eugene Smith Lodge No. 279 in Eastman present RWGrand Secretary Joe Watson a check for $1000.00 for theMasonic Children’s Home. These funds were raised at the an-nual car show held by Eugene Smith Lodge.

Eugene Smith Lodge Presents Check for Home

Grand Lodge Dedicates Cornerstone at Martinez Lodge No. 710

Grand Master Edgar M. Land (left) and Deputy Grand Master Dou-glas W. McDonald (right) led the Grand Lodge officers in the dedication ofMartinez Lodge No. 710.

A full-page story ofMartinez Lodge No. 710 ap-peared in the June issue of theMasonic Messenger. Brethren areencouraged to read more aboutthis beautiful lodge in that issue.

Ducktown Lodge No. 572, Cumming, was honored tohost the Grand Master for an official visit on July 18. This wasan open meeting at which the Grand Master Edgar M. Land,Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Georgia, pre-sented five 25-Year-Awards to brethren of Ducktown Lodge.They are from left to right: Bro. Earl Turpen, WB David Pruitt,Bro. Jeff Heard, WB. David Whitaker, MW Grand Master,WB Douglas Andrews and Bro. Eddie Gurley. Also attachedis a picture of the WM David Whitaker and WB Larry Bennettpresenting Grand Master Land with a plaqueand a picture of the Grand Master with all Vet-erans present. The GM presented his MasonicVeterans ribbon to all Veterans present. Thereis also a picture attached of Bro Benjiman Kingpresenting the Grand Master with a keepsakebox. (Photos to the right)

Grand Master Visits Ducktown Lodge

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8 / August 2014

This question will be addressed on November 1st whenArturo de Hoyos visits theAtlanta Masonic Center. Theoccasion will be a dinnerhosted by the KnightsCommander Court ofHonor (KCCH) of theValley of Atlanta to raisefunds for the RiteCareCenter at Scottish RiteHospital. RiteCare providesassistance to children withSpeech and Languagedisorders; children whomight never be able tocommunicate without thisgreat work.

Illustrious Brother de Hoyos, 33° Grand Cross, willtalk to those who attend about the role Freemasonry playsor doesn’t play in Politics; the position of Freemasonry in aworld of many different Religions. He will consider howFreemasonry addresses the vast community of man andthe meaning of “meeting on the level”.

Brother de Hoyos serves as Grand Historian ofSupreme Council, Scottish Rite and has authored, editedand translated numerous books, articles and publicationson Freemasonry. He has frequently contributed to

Is Freemasonry Still Relevant in Today’s World?“Heredom,” the annual transaction of the Scottish RiteResearch Society.

He is the author, editor, and translator of more than 25books and many articles and is considered America's fore-most scholar on the history, rituals, and symbolism of Scot-tish Rite Freemasonry, and most other Masonic orders, rites,and systems.

Among his many books are the Scottish Rite Ritual Moni-tor and Guide (2008), Light on Masonry: The History and Ritualsof America's Most Important Masonic Expose (2008), The Cloud ofPrejudice A Study in Anti-Masonry (2010), and Is it True WhatThey Say About Freemasonry? (co-authored with Dr. S. BrentMorris, 33° Grand Cross, 2010).

He has travelled and lectured extensively on Freema-sonry, and been featured on numerous television and radioprograms, including NBC Dateline's "Secrets of the LostSymbol," CNN's "The Situation Room," ABC Nightly News,Washington D.C.'s FOX 5 News, WAMU Radio's "MetroConnection," The History Channel, The Voice of America,and more.

The dinner and his address are opened to the public.Following his public remarks the brethren will have a separateopportunity to meet and ask questions that would not beappropriate in a public setting.

The donation for the steak dinner and the program is$60, a portion of which is tax deductible. Reservations canbe made by calling 404-873-3659.

Arturo de Hoyos

Eugene Smith Lodge No. 279 in Eastman presents RightWorshipful Grand Secretary Joe Watson a check for $1,000.00for the Masonic Children’s Home. These funds were raised atthe annual car show held by Eugene Smith.

Eugene Smith Lodge Presents Checkto Home

Wor. Bro. Dan Dacus, DDGM-9E, presents YagrikTadavarthi of Johns Creek Troop No. 3143 his Eagle Scoutaward.

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First and foremost, I give Honor, Praise and Glory toAlmighty God for all of His Goodness, Blessings and Mercyon me and my family. I thank Him for letting me live in thespace of time He has allocated for my earthly life. He hasmade it possible for me to Fellowship with some of the finestpeople I could ever hope to meet from all walks of life; mostly,I think, because I was accepted into the Masonic Lodge andthe accompanying Masonic travels He has permitted me tomake. True, I have not made the best use of my time here. Ihave made innumerable mistakes and bad decisions, and I’msure I will make some more. However, as I grow older, Ihave a greater desire to try to make the best use of my re-maining time and efforts, although I do not always succeed.Masonry is composed of members of a multitude of reli-gions. Being a Baptist, I am thankful for salvation, repentanceand forgiveness.

I also thank Almighty God for restoring our Grand Mas-ter, Most Worshipful Brother Edgar Land, to good health. Ithank Brother Edgar for his friendship and for appointingme to this position. I pray for his continued good health so hecan continue and complete the tremendous schedule he main-tains as Grand Master.

I express my gratitude to my wife and daughters and alsoto all of the Ladies and family members of Masons whoprovide our needs, remind us of things we need to do andplaces we need to go and support us in our Masonic activities.Without their help and understanding, we could not accom-plish the things we do. Some of our Ladies and family mem-bers are more supportive of Masonry than a lot of our mem-bers because they know what Masonry is about and have adesire in their heart to help support our lodge activities andour charities. They work tirelessly to make sure our fundraisersare successful, make sure we have an abundance of goodfood at our meetings and support us in all of our Masonicactivities. I pray that the Ladies and family members who havea negative opinion of Masonry might kindly and gently gain a

TributeFloyd Edmonson, Grand Orator

true understanding of what Masonry is and what Masons do.I also pray that I and all of our members will try to live closerto the teachings of Masonry and work together in Peace andHarmony to try to make this world a better place in which tolive.

I express my sincere gratitude and respect for our militarymen and women; both at home and abroad; past, presentand future, for their services and sacrifices that allow us tohave the freedoms we enjoy. I pray for their wisdom, health,safety and for all of the things they need to perform their jobin a superior manner. I pray that those on foreign soil maysoon be safely reunited with their families. I pray for thecomfort, peace and well-being of the families who have lovedones in harm’s way.

I express my gratitude to our Masonic forefathers whohave made it possible for our Masonic Lodges to continue inexistence today. I have a lot of precious memories of somefor their friendship, their labors for and devotion to the Lodgeand the examples they left us by the way they behaved andconducted themselves in the Lodge, Church and communityin their everyday lives.

I praise today’s leaders of our Masonic fraternity fortheir hard work and desire to keep our fraternity strong, aliveand of good report of our communities. I encourage eachof us to try to live up to the things we said we would do; touse our best endeavors to promote Peace and Harmony, notjust in the Lodge, but in our everyday dealings with mankind;and do our best to strengthen the Masonic fraternity for thebetterment of mankind and for future generations to enjoy. Ipray for your good health, comfortable livelihood, Peace inyour heart and your active participation and support of yourLodge and its activities.

Lord willing, I hope to see you soon somewhere. MayGod Bless.

Frank Shelton of Perry Volunteer Outreach was honoredby Houston Lodge No. 35 for being the Citizen of the Year.This award was to recognize all the hard work Mr. Sheltonhas done through PVO. He was introduced to the Brothersby Past Master Jeff Onsted and Larry Wood of PVO. TheLodge also donated $200 to PVO in honor of Mr. Shelton.

Pictured to the right are Worshipful Master Ken Howell,Larry Wood, Frank Shelton and Past Master Jeff Onsted.

Houston Lodge Honors Frank Shelton

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10 / August 2014

On July 18-19, The Masonic Education and LeadershipDevelopment Committee held the first ever Leadership Con-ference in Atlanta at Yaarab Shrine Temple. The purpose ofthis Conference was to provide our Senior Wardens, JuniorWardens, and Senior Deacons with the necessary tools to helpthem on their journey to the East. There were 79 brethrenfrom 50 different Lodges from around the state who attendedwith 10 out of the 12 Masonic Districts represented. TheConference began on Friday evening following dinner with ahearty welcome from our Senior Grand Warden, Right Wor-shipful Brother Drew Lane.

Wor. Bro. Wiley Forrester proceeded to introduce his “AllStar” team of facilitators and staff for the Conference. Afterthe introductions, the first presentation was made by MostWorshipful PGM E Ray Knittel on Strategic Planning. Thebrethren were then dismissed to their respective class roomswhere the breakout sessions were held. I will have to say thatthere were a lot of overwhelmed looks when the first sessionhad ended. The Conference reconvened on Saturday morn-ing with a country breakfast, and then it was back to workwith a jam packed 14 hour day of learning.

Past Grand Master Gary Lemmons was our keynotespeaker and delivered his message with his customary graceand humor that only a twice retired educator can do. Wor.Bro. Eric Puchstein, DDMELD-9E gave our first presenta-tion of the day on Finance, then Wor. Bro. Brian CoffeyDDMELD-10C with a presentation on Lodge Renewal. Thelast presentation was made by Brother Jim Durbin, MELDSpecial Instructor, District 7, on Leadership and Management.After each presentation, the brethren returned to their class-rooms where their facilitator walked each brother throughdeveloping an Action plan for each topic. The final presenta-tion of the Conference was made by Wor. Bro. Randy Payne,DDMELD-7B, entitled the “Seven Dwarfs.” This presenta-tion was developed to have a little fun after a packed day oflearning. When the presentation had concluded we received avery nice message from our Grand Master, MWB Edgar MLand, who thanked everyone for attending. The Conferencewas also attended by several of our Grand Lodge Officers. Itwas such a great feeling of support from our Grand Lodge,and we are very thankful.

A very special thanks goes out to Wor. Bro. Larry Nichols,Senior Grand Deacon, for helping me keep my sanity throughthis entire process.

The Grand Lodge of Georgia and the Masonic Educa-tion and Leadership Development team would like to send ahuge word of thanks to Illustrious Sir Richard Burke, mem-bers of the Divan and Yaarab Shrine for opening up theirShrine Center to host this wonderful event. The team wouldalso like to thank Yaarab Shrine for hosting dinner on Satur-

Masonic Education and Leadership Development Holds Inaugural Leadership Conferenceday night where a Prime Rib feast was had by all. The Confer-ence staff and our students were treated first class by YaarabShrine and their staff. I would also like to thank GwinnettShrine Club who provided drinks and snacks throughout theConference as well as offering tours of the Shrine Center. AsCoordinator of this Conference, I could not have asked for abetter partnership than what we were able to develop withYaarab and Illustrious Brother Burke. I personally will be for-ever grateful for your assistance and friendship. It is my sin-cere hopes that we can continue to work with Yaarab Shrinefor future Conferences.

Brethren, I would be remiss if I didn’t thank Most Wor-shipful Grand Master Edgar M Land for having confidencein our team to bring this program to our state. Our team hasspent hundreds of hours to research, develop, and train tobring this top notch program to our state. Each team has tohave a great coach and our Conference is no different. With-out Wor. Bro. Mac McGuirt, DD MELD-5F, and his “AllStar” team, none of the material for this Conference wouldhave been possible. Wor. Bro. McGuirt’s strong business savvyand his desire to help Freemasonry grow were very evident inthe countless hours that he has spent with his team on thedevelopment side of this Conference. Wor. Bro. McGuirt,our team Thanks You!

Overall our first Conference was a huge success. The Ma-sonic Education and Leadership Development Committeehas already begun working on the 2nd annual LeadershipConference to be held on June 19-20, 2015. Look for ourletter and application to arrive soon. Remember, that ourConference is limited to the first 150 that apply. Do not waitto get your application completed and mailed in.

Fraternally,Wiley Forrester PM, State Director

Masonic Education and Leadership Development.

Dedication of the Children’s GardenGrand Master Edgar M. Land and his officers

will dedicate the Square and Compasses in theChildren’s Garden at the Masonic Home on Satur-day, September 6, at 11:00 a.m. Dignataries fromMacon and the surrounding area are expected to at-tend to see the pavers which have been placed inthe ground, even though not all have been inscribed.You still have the opportunity to donate one or morepavers.

The day will also be the Annual Alumni Day.An old-style picnic with hamburgers and

hotdogs will be held. Come and enjoy the day!

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August 2014 / 11

Cornelia Masonic Lodge No. 92 proudly sponsoredand presented three $1,000.00 scholarships to Sadie Lee Gal-loway, Jedidiah Clark, and Savannah Shelby Amick.

Sadie will be attending Kennesaw State University begin-ning this fall pursuing Psychology on Pre-Med. Sadie is thedaughter of Tony and Donna Galloway.

Jedidiah will be attending North Georgia Technical Col-lege this spring, enrolled in the Lineman class. Jedidiah is theson of John and Yvonne Defoor and Chip Clark.

Savannah will be attending Kennesaw State University be-ginning this fall pursuing Biology on Pre-Med. Savannah is thedaughter of Joey Amick and Dana Wilson.

Pictured with Sadie, Jedidiah and Savannah is CorneliaLodge’s Worshipful Master Randy Jewart.

Cornelia Lodge Presents Three Scholarships

Pickens Star Lodge No. 220 recently presented theGrady Bozeman scholarship to Victoria Fendley and the BobbyMassey scholarship to Anthony Parks, each in the amount of$1,000.00. In the photo are Wor. Bro. Keith Hales, GrandTyler; Anthony Parks; Victoria Fendley and Wor. Brother RonMatthews, Worshipful Master of Pickens Star Lodge.

Pickens Star Lodge Presents Two Scholarships

Three $500 scholarships were awarded by Macon LodgeNo. 5 in honor of Bro. Roy A. Wood who was killed in Afghani-stan in 2004 and in honor of Wor. Bro. O. P. Resseau, PM.

Pictured from the left are Wor. Bro. Kevin Stroberg, Wor-shipful Master; Ryan Bennett, recepient of a Wood Scholar-ship (portrait left); Ashley Williams, recepient of the ResseauScholarship (portrait right); Michael Williams, recepient of aWood Scholarship; and Mrs. O. P. Resseau.

On behalf of Ducktown Lodge No. 572 F&AM, Wor-shipful Master David Whitaker presents scholarship checks toMegan Chadwick and Christopher Cooper in the amount of$1000.00 each.

Reservations for Grand LodgeYou may make your reservations now

at the Macon Marriott City Center,240 Coliseum Drive

478-621-5300Rooms are $109 per night

Mention you are with the Grand Lodge.Full information in October issue.

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12 / August 2014

Dr. Rob MorrisEducator, Masonic Poet Laureate, Founder of the Order of the Eastern Star

The editor wishes to thank Most Worshipful Brother C.Danny Wofford, P.G.M. and Curator of the Masonic Librarylocated in the Scottish Rite Center in Atlanta, for providing anumber of biographical sketches of Dr. Rob Morris. TheMasonic Library is the finest source of Masonic information inGeorgia and Freemasons are encouraged to visit the library toconduct their Masonic research. — Editor

Once a year, usually in September, Eastern Star Chaptersacross the Great State of Georgia and around the world, taketime to hear a lecture on a greatFreemason and the founder of theOrder of the Eastern Star: Dr. RobMorris. Normally, the lectures areon Dr. Morris’ founding of theOrder of the Eastern Star, althoughI shall concentrate in this article onhis Masonic life. Rob Morris wasborn on August 31, 1818, nearBoston, Massachusetts. BornRobert Morris, he later shorted hisname to Rob to avoid confusionwith another poet named RobertMorris.1

As with many others, Morris moved west as did thepopulation when lands west of the Allegany Mountains wereopened for settlement. By August 26, 1841, we find Morris inOxford, Mississippi, where on that date he married MissCharlotte Mendenhall, whose parents lived near Oxford. OnMarch 5, 1846, he joined T. S. Gathright Lodge No. 33 inOxford.2 He immediately became deeply interested in thesubject of Freemasonry.

He was exalted to the degree of Royal Arch in Lexington,Mississippi, in 1848, accepted as a Royal and Select Masonin 1849, made a Knight Templar at Jackson, Mississippi, in1850 and received the Scottish Rite degrees in 1854. Hereceived a number of honorary appendages to Freemasonry,such as the Red Cross of Constantine.

While teaching at Eureka Masonic College, betterknown as “The Little Red Brick School Building” inRichland, Mississippi, he began considering how Ladiesmight become involved in the Masonic family and, in 1850,composed and communicated the ritual, called The Rosaryof the Eastern Star, with the ritual centering around fiveBiblical heroines: Jephtha’s Daughter, Ruth, Esther, Marthaand Electa. Dr. Morris led the Order until 1866 whenbecause of his planned travel abroad, Bro. Robert Macoyof New York assumed the leadership. In 1876, the General

Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, was establishedand leads the worldwide movement today. In addition toChapters in the United States and Canada, Chapters are foundin widespread nations such as the Philippines, Japan, Romania,Brazil, Germany, and Aruba, among other countries.

He later moved to Kentucky where he became a memberof Fortitude Lodge No. 47 at La Grange, Kentucky, and theRoyal Arch, the Commandery, and the Scottish Rite.

Dr. Morris became well known for his writings, amongwhich are “Free Masons’ Monitor;” “Miniature Monitor;”“Eastern Star Manual;” “Special Help for Worshipful Masters;”“Funeral Book of Freemasons;” “Masonic Ladder;”“Dictionary of Freemasonry;” “Guide to Consecration ofMasonic Cemeteries;” and “Discipline of Masonic Offenders.”In addition to these works, he wrote hundreds of songs,hymns, addresses, essays, over 400 poems, as well as dozensof minor literary works.

In 1854, 3,782 Kentucky Freemasons raised between$9,000 and $10,000 so Dr. Morris could travel to the HolyLand (then called the Ottoman Empire) and Europe. Tragedybefell Morris when a hotel fire in New York City destroyedhis money and belongings. He immediately began to sell hisbooks and writings and again raised the necessary funds totravel to the Holy Land. By 1868, he again had sufficient fundsand again made plans to travel to Jerusalem. He metFreemasons throughout the Middle East and spoke in Smyrna,Damascus, Beirut, Joppa (now called Joffa) and Jerusalem.While in Jerusalem, he opened a Lodge of Instruction andlaid the initial groundwork for the Royal Solomon MotherLodge No. 293. Over the years, this lodge has become theMother Lodge for a number of lodges in Israel and the WestBank, as well as the Grand Lodge in Israel.

He later served as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge ofKentucky in1858-9. Uponbeing given aposition asprofessor of theM a s o n i cUniversity, hemoved toL a G r a n g e ,Kentucky in1860.

T h eM a s o n i cUniversity was

Dr. Rob Morris

The Little Red Brick School Building

(Continued next page)

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August 2014 / 13

an educational facility operated by the Grand Lodge ofKentucky in LaGrange, Kentucky, located twenty milesnortheast of Louisville, beginning in 1844. It was renamedMasonic University in 1852. The Masonic University had itsgreatest era in the 1850s. However, the beginning of the CivilWar in 1861 severely crippled it. This is best represented bythe departure of the principal of its grammar school, Hines,who left to found the Buckner’s Guides, a Confederate force.It was during this time that Rob Morris began running theschool (1860). His home, the Rob Morris House, still stands afew blocks southeast of the site of the university. Eventuallythe Grand Lodge decided they had better uses for the moneyused to run the school, selling it off in 1873 in favor ofconcentrating on the Masonic Widows and Orphans Home,then just established in Louisville. In 1881 the school finallyclosed. The building burned to the ground in 1911.

Dr. Morris was the second official Masonic Poet Laureate.The first was Robert Burns, who was selected Masonic PoetLaureate based on his single Masonic poem. Morris was named

Masonic Poet Laureate in New York City, on December 17,1884, for writing in excess of 400 Masonic poems.

Many of Dr. Morris’ diplomas and official jewels weredestroyed in the burning of his home, “The Three Cedars,” atLaGrange in November 1861 and by the Great Fire in Chicagoin October 1871. Following years of declining health, MostWorshipful Bro. and Dr. Rob Morris died at his home inLaGrange on July 31, 1888.

(Endnotes)1 I found one source that said there is some evidence he wasborn Robert William Peckham, in New York, and that headopted the name of his foster parents after the death of hisbirth parents. I could not document that source.2 T. S. Gathright Lodge No. 33 is still active, although thename has been changed to O. D. Smith Lodge No. 33.

(Continued from previous page)

These last few weeks I have noticed many references tothe concept of fear. So little is really studied about this subjectand only a few things are written. Yet fear controls so muchof our lives. At an early age our parents tell us about thingsthat can hurt us. “Don’t pet that dog, he will bite you. Thewater is too deep you will drown. Don’t eat that, it will makeyou sick.” Now our parents didn’t intend to scare us as muchas they wanted to protect us from dangers. Sometimes fearcan do just that.

I was watching an older movie called End of Days withWill Smith. On the surface this sci-fi movie is a father’srelationship with his son. But there are a few life lessons in thismovie. In one part Will Smith reveals that he killed these giantbeasts because the animals were blind but could “see” you ifyou feared them, because of the human endorphins you emitwhen you are fearful. Will Smith had a great quote he said,“Fear is not real. The only place that fear can exist is in ourthoughts of the future. It is a product of our imagination,causing us to fear things that do not at present and may notever exist. That is near insanity. Do not misunderstand me,danger is very real but fear is a choice.”

I love that last line, “…danger is very real but fear is achoice.” In our Blue Lodges we often fear that we cannotmemorize another sentence. As if our mind will be full or wewill begin to forget other things to “make room.” They saythe number one fear in America is the fear of speaking in

front of others. The number two fear is being trapped in aburning house. Can you imagine the two guys in the closet ofa burning house? One says to the other, “We may be in a fire,but it could be worse. We could be on stage talking to a largegroup of people.” Now how silly is that? All because of fear.

I saw a Spanish movie recently called “The Last Days.”This movie was set in Barcelona Spain and was about a plague.This plague made you Agoraphobic or fearful of going outof doors. There was no real danger except in the minds ofthe people afflicted. People would starve to death in theirown homes because the fear had taken over their lives.

My pastor challenged us this week to look at all the timesthe Bible says “Fear not…” or, “…be not afraid.” I was amazedat the number of times these stements appeared. Maybe Godis trying to tell us something about fear.

Dale Carnegie once said, “Inaction breeds doubt and fear.Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquerfear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and getbusy.” So I challenge you my brethren to take steps today to“go outside” and begin to conquer the fears in your life. Whoknows you just might surprise yourself. Or even better, youjust might be the example that younger person needed to seeto help change their lives.

Do you have Fear?By Tony McCool, Midland Lodge No. 144

— Gary Leazer, Ph. D., editor

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14 / August 2014

Georgia is joining so many other states by making a Specialty Tag availablefeaturing the Square and Compasses.

When you purchase and each time you renew your Freemasons tag, Georgia MasonicCharities Foundation, which supports many youth programs and youth safety programs

will receive $10.Take advantage of this great way to display your pride in Freemasonry and youth programs.

We must have orders for a minimum of 1000 tags to get started.That means a minimum annual revenue of

TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS.

Instructions:1. Complete the form on page 21 in the June issue of the Masonic Messenger.You must submit one form for each tag you wish to purchase.2. Mail the completed form(s) along with a check for $25 for each tag to:

Georgia Masonic Charities FoundationSPECIALTY TAG

811 Mulberry StMacon Ga. 31201-6779

(You may write one check for multiple tags, i.e. $50 for 2 tags.)

For this program to be successful, the state of Georgia requires that we have orders for at least onethousand tags. (We have not reached that goal!)

Once we have met that requirement you will receive instructionsexplaining how to obtain your tag(s).

NOTE: The $25 accompanying your application is a onetime fee which covers the manufacture ofyour tag. When you go to your local tag office, be prepared to pay a $35 specialty tag fee, annually in

addition to the $20 license registration fee, annually and ad valorem tax if due.

Georgia Masonic Charities FoundationSpecialty License Tag

See Cover and Pages 21-22 in the June Issueof the Masonic Messenger for more information

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August 2014 / 15

The Order of the Sword of Bunker Hill Organized in GeorgiaBuford Masonic Lodge No. 262 was filled to over-flow-

ing on Saturday, July 12, as approximately 142 Freemasonswere initiated into the Order of the Sword of Bunker Hill.Brethren from Ozark Order No. 109 from Springfield, Mis-souri, drove to Georgia to initiate the Brethren. A lunch ofspaghetti was served prior to the ritual.

The Grand Master, Most Worshipful Brother Edgar M.Land, and most of his Grand Lodge officers were amongthose initiated into the Order.

Officers of the new James Jackson Order No. 127 ofGrayson are pictured to the right in the top photo. They are(from the right): Commander Chief, Bro. Rick Conn; Com-mander Right Wing, Bro. Ken Purl; Commander Left Wing,Bro. Joe Bush; Chaplain, Bro. Jim House; Adjacent, Bro. ChrisChapman; Sgt. at Arms, Bro. David Bird; Sentinel, Bro. JessieDooley; Commissary General, Bro. Todd Hester; and Sec-Treasurer, Bro. Carter Wood.

A photo of Solomon’s Lodge No. 1 in Savannah wasfeatured in the August 2014 issue of The Northern Light, theofficial publication of the Supreme Council, 33°, AncientAccepted Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, U.S.A.The photo was submitted by Walter E. and Beverly Fafatafor his uncle, Bro. Robert J. Fafata, Valley of Pittsburg, Penn-sylvania.

The bottom photo shows many of the Brethren at lunchand enjoying fellowship prior to the initiation into the Orderof the Sword of Bunker Hill.

Re“New”ing Your MembershipI read John McNaughton’s article with great interest

(“Value Proposition Part 2,” The Northern Light, May 2014). Ifelt like he was writing about me and my lodge.

I have never been active in my blue lodge and have onlyattended a handful of meetings. In my defense, I was the CEOof a publicly traded company at the time I became a Masonand was/am involved in a long list of worthwhile communityand charitable causes. Masonic involvement took a back seat.

But what’s sad to me is that no one has ever reached outto me to encourage my involvement. Even worse is that sev-eral times in the past few years I asked a very active memberof my lodge to tell me when he will be attending a meeting sothat I could go with him and get refreshed on the rituals andcustoms so that I am comfortable in the meetings and cancontribute appropriately. He has failed to follow up with me.

In every business that I am involved in and with just aboutevery other charitable, fraternal or civic organization there isconstant effort to get members active along with attractingnew members.

I suspect many Masons would love to be asked to getinvolved for the first time or to re-engage if once active butare no longer active. I know I would like it.— Raymond H. Melcher, 33°, Valley of Reading (Pennsylva-nia)

“The start is what stops most people.” — Don Shula

Are you curious about Hiram Abif, the Biblical characterwho helped King Solomon build his temple? A excellent shortarticle can be read in July/August 2014 The Scottish Rite Journal,the official publication of the Supreme Council, 33°, Ancientand Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Southern Juris-diction, USA.

Bro. Howard Coop, 32°, KCCH, a popular writer onMasonic subjects, is the author.

"The man who doesn’t read good books has no advantageover the man who can’t read them." — Mark Twain, Ameri-can writer and Freemason, http://burningtaper.blogspot.com/2006/01/masonic-quotes.html.

"If a man empties his purse into his head, no man can takeit away from him. An investment in knowledge always paysthe best interest." — Benjamin Franklin, American writer, hu-morist, ambassador, inventor and Freemason, http://burningtaper.blogspot.com/2006/01/masonic-quotes.html.

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16 / August 2014

Stephens Lodge No. 337 Hosts the 4th District ConventionThe officers of Stephens Lodge No. 586 opened a lodge

of Master Masons at 9:45 a.m. August 16 for the purpose ofhosting the 110th Annual Convention of the 4th Masonic Dis-trict at Greenville Lodge No. 321.

Wor. Bro. Paul Wells gave a moving introduction to theFlag and all present pledged allegiance.

Most Wor. Brother Edgar M. Land, Grand Master ofMasons in Georgia, was found in waiting and welcomed withPrivate Grand Honors. He introduced the Grand Lodge of-ficers who were present. Special guests were also introduced.

At 10:00, the 4th District Officers assumed their stationsand the 110th Annual Communication was called to orderwith Wor. Bro. Earl Byrom as Worshipful Master.

Minutes of the 109th Convention were read and ap-proved.

A Memorial Service for Deceased Brethren was led by4th District Chaplain Wor. Bro. Bill Bryom and the Secretary,Wor. Bro. Len Davis.

The “Wool Hat Boys” gave an excellent lecture on South-ern heritage and the Civil War.

Committee reports were heard and approved. Wor. Bro.Darrel Moy reported the 4th District had ID’d 1,178 childrenin 24 events since last year. Wor. Bro. Keith Simmons reportedthat 96 CHIP certificates had been issued to Brothers com-pleting Correspondence Courses during the year.

The 2015 Annual Communication will be held atColumbian Lodge No. 7 in Columbus on April 15.

Checks were presented to the Grand Master in the amountof $1,095 from several lodges. A total of $100 cash was col-lected and presented to the Grand Master, all for the MasonicHome.

The 4th District officers wait to be installed as newly electedMaster Craig A. Haggas is installed.

Newly installed Master pins a Past Master’s jewel on out-going Master, Wor. Bro. Earl Byrom. The Grand Master standsin the middle.

A Barn Degree is scheduled at Wor. Bro. Charlie Long'sfarm at 695 Orr Mill Road in Ranger on September 27 as afund raiser benefit for Dallas Lodge's own Right WorshipfulBro. F. Andrew “Drew” Lane, Sr. Grand Warden of theGrand Lodge of Georgia. There will be games and contests,lots and lots of good food, old friendships renewed and newones made, and to top it off, a candidate will be raised to theSublime Degree of Master Mason.

The festivities will begin around 3 p.m. The Degree workat Wor. Bro. Long's farm will be that evening, dramatized infull costume by the degree team from Solomon's Lodge No.1 in Savannah. Solomon’s Lodge will dramatize the degreeusing ancient ritual which is not used by many Georgia lodges.Between the legendary hospitality of Wor. Bro. Long and theoutstanding and unique dramatization by the Brethren ofSolomon's Lodge No. 1, the Barn Degree promises to be oneof the Masonic highlights in Georgia during 2014.

3rd Annual Barn Degree Set for September 27

Charlie’s barn is located five miles north of Fairmount onHwy. 411, follow the signs! Of course, like his tractors, it isgreen!

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August 2014 / 17

61st Annual Rock Quarry Degree Held August 23The lodges of Fannin County, Blue Ridge No. 67; Ocoee

No. 201; McCay No. 423; Mineral Bluff No. 483; and SweetGum No. 542 held their 61st Annual Rock Quarry Degreeunder a beautiful summer sun on August 23. A brief summershower did not dampen the spirit of the Brethren from sev-eral states from Mississippi to Virginia who were assembled.

The lodges served a lunch of BBQ and fried chicken andall the trimmings at the Spring a short distance from the Quarrybefore the Brethren assembled on the mountain.

A shot of the Rock Quarry from 2010

Pictured at the Springs are Right Worshipful Joe Watson(standing) visiting with Wor. Bros. Richard Swecker, GrandMaster of the Second Veil, South Carolina York Rite and amember of Pelham Lodge in South Carolina, and J. W. Ben-jamin “Bennie” Hammond, Past District Deputy to the GrandMaster and Past Junior Grand Warden of South Carolina anda member of Brandon Lodge No. 279 in Greenville. Seatedin the background are Bros. Jamie McClure, PM of MineralBluff Lodge No. 483 and William Chancery, also from Min-eral Bluff Lodge.

The officers of McKay Lodge No. 423 opened lodge.Grand Master Edgar M. Land was found in waiting and wel-comed into the lodge with Private Grand Honors.

Grand Master Edgar M. Land is presented to the lodgeby Wor. Bros. Tim Ingram, Grand Marshal; Eddie Gurley,Grand Chaplain; and Keith Hales, Grand Tyler.

The officers of McKay Lodge vacated their stations, whichwere assumed by the officers of Dallas Fellowcraft Club. Wor.Bro. Gurley served as Worshipful Master.

A brief shower did not dampen the spirits of the Broth-ers present for an opportunity to observe the raising of twonew Master Masons

Two Fellowcraft Masons were found in waiting: Bros.Michael L. Sosebee from Mineral Bluff Lodge No. 483 andChristopher C. Sims from Villa Rica Lodge No. 72.

Wor. Bros. Johnie Garmon, Charlie Long and DavidBrown assisted the Dallas Fellowcraft Club with the degree.Several Grand Lodge officers accepted parts as FellowcraftBrothers in the degree.

Christopher C. Sims of Villa Rica Lodge No. 72 andMichael L. Sosebee of Mineral Bluff Lodge No. 483 wereraised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason at the 61stAnnual Rock Quarry Degree.

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18 / August 2014

(Left)WilliamRogers

AlexanderCartersville No. 63

(Center) ThomasRobert Evans

Cartersville No. 63

50 Year Masons from Cartersville No. 63

(Right) James RayMooreCartersville No. 63

(Left) Robert Edward RayCartersville No. 63

(Right) Charles JimmyThomasCartersville No. 63

It was an honor for the Traveling Men, Chapter 19, Steel Goat Riders to assist with the Vietnam Traveling Wall escort inDublin on August 14. The traveling wall is a one-half scale replica of theMemorial in Washington, D.C. It is transported from town to town and

the distance between towns ofeach visit is less than 1000 miles.Once the wall is delivered it hasto be assembled and some ofour Brothers took part in thisevent. It was a solemn momenthandling the wall panels.

Traveling Men Assist with Vietnam Traveling Wall in Dublin

(More) 50 Year Masons from Lafayette No. 44(Left)Charles

Andrew BarnettLafayette No. 44

(Center) DonaldMorris Major

Lafayette No. 44

(Right) DouglasEdward SorrellsLafayette No. 44

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August 2014 / 19

William F Carmichaelstands beside hisdaughter who placedhis 50-year pin on him.Also pictured are Wor.Bros. CosterLivingston, DDGM,and William ROverstreet, Worship-

ful Master of Solomon’s Lodge No. 1 in Savannah.

Charles Burkhart Jr.Quitman No. 106

Marion Lebron BentonQuitman No. 106

David Lloyd BlackOostanaula No. 113

Jerome “Jerry” W. CollinsOostanaula No. 113

J W ConawayOostanaula No. 113

Wesley Lamar DoddOostanaula No. 113

James Elmer RhinehartOostanaula No. 113

Rufus Edmond BartonOostanaula No. 113

Charles MeeksCherokee No. 66

Larry MeeksCherokee No. 66

Buck JonesSeminole No. 83

Jackson WheelerGresham

Floyd Springs No.167

Houston WalterTouchstoneFloyd Springs No. 167Bro. Houston is the twinbrother of Bro. HowardTouchstone, Junior PastGrand Chaplain.

Harold Emory MajorLafayette No. 44

Manuel Gene McGinnisLafayette No. 44

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20 / August 2014

Willie Ernest BradyRichmond No. 412

with Michael H. Wilson, JuniorGrand Deacon, who presented

Bro. Brady’s pin and apron.

Claude Madison Brickle, Jr.Rutland No. 298

James Gray Bailey, Sr.Duluth No. 480

Benjamin Malcom RidenWellington No. 467

Elmer Kenneth MurrayCampton No. 566

Frank Inman NixLeroy Duncan No. 262with MWB Joe Suttles

Frank Stuckey with AnnEugene Smith No. 279

with Wor. Bro. DanMcCranie, DDGM

Pictured Chester Williford from StonewallNo. 98 who received his 50-year apron and pin,and Wor. Bro. Danny Wilcher, Worshipful Mas-ter of Hamilton No. 58 where the ceremoniesoccurred.

Allen B. HooksTennille No. 256

Bobby Jean HerlovichMarshall No. 188

Guy TurnerAcworth No. 176

William Howard IsonForest Park No. 399

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August 2014 / 21

60 Years

Marshall D. StephensKennesaw Lodge No. 33

Willie Atwood LaneCairo Lodge No. 299

Lloyd C. JonesPickens Star Lodge No. 220

with Wor. Bro. Keith Hales, Grand Tyler

Bronwood HarrisonCairo Lodge No. 299

Jack Eugene Bramblett, Sr.Wellington Lodge No. 467

Walter McCline HolcombMurrayville Lodge No. 30 Tucker Lodge No. 42 is proud of

our own Wor. Bro. Robert Cook for re-ceiving his 60-year apron. Wor. Bro.Cook is Past Master of Tucker Lodgeand has been a great source of inspira-tion and encouragement. He was raisedMarch 16, 1953. Tucker Lodge thankshim for his 60 years of service and his60 years of loving the Craft.

(Left) Wor. Bro. Doug Bridges,DDGM, with Bro. Carroll Arnold whorecieved his 60-year apron at HamiltonLodge No. 258.

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22 / August 2014

65 Years

Bro. Felin William PipkinHinesville Lodge No. 271

Brother Pipkin is 102 years old

70 Years

Right Worshipful Bro. Gary Leazer, Junior Grand Warden, poses with Bro.William Loring Hall after presenting his 70-year apron and certificate. Bro.Hall was raised on July 12, 1944 in Hamilton No. 58 where he is still amember. He became a Perpetual Member last year.The presentation was made at the the Washington and Adjoining Counties

Convention, which is held every other month by lodges in the Convention.Hamilton No. 58 hosted this Convention and served catfish and brim, hushpuppies, cole slaw, grits, French fries, ice cream and cake. Thirty Brethrenattended the Convention on August 29.

The next Washington and Adjoining Counties Convention will be hosted byIrwinton No. 150 on September 30 with the meal served around 7 p.m. All areinvited.

Bro. Leon Blair received his 70-year apron at Thomasville LodgeNo. 369. Bro. Blair was raised onOctober 15, 1943 at Barrett LodgeNo. 43 in Live Oak, Florida. He wasadmitted to Thomasville Lodge No.369 on November 26, 1946. Bro.Blair was secretary for ThomasvilleLodge for 25 years and served faith-fully wherever needed.

He is pictured with his beauti-ful wife, Deana.

Wor. Bro. Mike Marshall,DDGM, presented the award.

Bro. William Raymond Pierce, Sr.Thomasville Lodge No. 369

Bro. Pierce was raised on March 3,1949 in McDonald Lodge No. 172

which merged with ThomasvilleLodge in 1991.

Wor. Bro. Mike Marshall, DDGM,made the presentation.

Bro. O. W. Carter received his 65-year apron from Wor. Master DannyWilcher at Stonewall No. 98.

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August 2014 / 23

June 7, 2014 was a historic day in Nelson, Georgia. TheNelson Police Department, Nelson Fire Department and E.W. Hightower Lodge No. 679 Free and Accepted Masonsteamed tohost a PublicSafety Day.The PoliceDepartmenthad all of itsofficers avail-able to meetthe public.They had theirthree vehicleson display.The Depart-ment also haddrug awarenesstee shirts foryoungsters.

The Ameri-can Red Crosssent their DisasterPreparedness unitto help educatethe public. Theywere well re-ceived. The RedCross BloodMobile was alsoon hand for aBlood Drivesponsored by theLodge. The public, members of the Public Safety Commu-nity and the Lodge family responded. There were nine unitsdonated. To the average person, this may not seem like a lotbut the Red Cross staff was pleased with the results for a firstdrive. One person, April Dennis, a regular donor tried to givebut was unsuccessful – she let them tried both arms. It wasjust not to be today.

The Ball Ground/Nelson Fire Department had numer-ous staff on hand. Pickens County Fire Department had atent set up to let the public know about the emergency callprogram available through the county. Cherokee County FireDepartment had several vehicles on hand. One was a laddertruck with the ladder extended its full 105 feet. They also hadtheir safety house for the youngsters to go through.

E. W. Hightower Lodge No. 679 held a child identifica-

tion program in theLodge room. TheLodge processed 27packets. The BBQfundraiser was well re-ceived. The Lodge soldout of the pork and hada small amount ofchicken left. The folksfrom GOBounce had abounce house for thechildren. The proceedsof the bounce housewere donated to the Lodge for Masonic Charities. There wereseveral other donations made to the Lodge.

It was a great day for Nelson and its people. This can besaid to be the biggest event held in Nelson in a long time.

Public officials came out and the public responded with de-light.

E. W. Hightower Lodge has found a great way to involveits members in the community, to allow the community to seeMasons involved in the community, and to do a good work.

Nelson, Georgia, Holds Historic Event; E. W. Hightower ParticipatesWor. Bro. Ralph O. Dennis

Upcoming District ConventionsSeptember 13: Fifth District Convention at Douglasville

Lodge No. 289; 9:00 a.m.September 20: Eleventh District Convention at Waycross

Lodge No. 305; 10:00 a.m.September 27: Ninth District Convention at Pickens High

School in Jasper; 9:00 a.m.

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24 / August 2014

The Valley of Atlanta has been very busy. July’s meetingfeatured a reading of the Declaration of Independence bythe officers of the Council of Kadosh. August’s meeting saw44 recipients of Scholarships, along with their families on hand.The scholarships of $1,000 each were awarded by the ScottishRite Foundation of Georgia.

On August 16th almost 125 were present for a Blue LodgeAppreciation Event. Master of Ceremonies, Senior GrandWarden F. Andrew “Drew” Lane, Jr. 32° KCCH introducedIll Ronnie Lanham, 33° Personal Representative to the SGIGfor the Valley of Augusta. Br Lanham discussed the meaningof the Hiramic Legend and delved into its depth andsymbolism. Everyone was treated to a great dinner preparedand served by those famous Hospitaliers of the Valley ofAtlanta. To bring the Hiramic Legend full circle, the DallasFellowcraft club dramatized the Hiramic Legend in the ScottishRite Auditorium. The candidate was our Grand Master, EdgarM. Land, 32°KCCH.

The month of September has significant meaning to allcitizens of the United States because of the tragedy 9/11/2001. Our September meeting will honor first responders whoworked unselfishly in 2001 and every day to help all in need.Present and former First Responders will be welcomed andhonored regardless of Masonic affiliation. Key Note Speakerwill be GBI Director, Vernon Keenan. A special tribute willhonor Br. Arthur Kaplan who may well be the father of FirstResponders in Georgia.

Nov. 1st will see a unique event in which every brotherand the public will have the opportunity to hear from the

The Scottish Rite ofThe Scottish Rite ofThe Scottish Rite ofThe Scottish Rite ofThe Scottish Rite of F F F F FreemasonryreemasonryreemasonryreemasonryreemasonryWeb Site:

GaScottish Rite.org

Ill. Leonard E. Buffington, SGIG, Orient of Georgia

The Valley of Columbus Scottish Rite Freemasonry is alive and well in the River City.We have sent out emails inviting all Grand Line Officers andtheir Ladies, of the four Grand lines, to join us at our AnnualFeast of Tishri.

We will hold our Feast of Tishri on the 19th of Septem-ber 2014, dinner will be at 6:30 PM and our program at 7:30PM. Our guest speaker for the evening is Right WorshipfulDeputy Grand Master Douglas W. McDonald of the GrandLodge of Georgia. Ill A. Charles Knowles Jr., 33° PersonalRepresentative to the SGIG invites all brethren, guests andtheir ladies to attend this wonderful and meaningful program.Please visit our web site at scottishritecolsga.com for moreinformation.

Grand Historian of Supreme Council, Scottish Rite, Arturode Hoyos on the subject, “Is Freemasonry Relevant inToday’s World.” The steak dinner event will benefit theScottish Rite Foundation and the RiteCare Center at ScottishRite Hospital. Enjoy a great dinner and hear from Ill Arturode Hoyos for a donation of $60. The event is hosted by theKnights Commander Court of Honour. Reservations can bemade by calling 404-873-3659.

The Fall Reunion and Class will be a joint event withYaarab Shrine. Brothers of one can join the other at asignificantly reduced cost. Brothers who belong to neither,can join both for the price of one. While price is importantthe value of fellowship of each is beyond dollar value.

The Valley of Savannah recently presented 19 ScottishRite Foundation of Georgia Scholarships to deserving youngstudents from the Savannah area. Now we must exert our-selves to raise funds to replenish what we so freely gave bysupporting our great Foundation. Feast of Tishri is October7th and Awards Night is November 4th. For a complete run-down on all activities coming up, visit our website at http://www.savannahscottishrite.org.

The Valley of Albany hosted its 10 scholarship recepientsin the valley on July 30 for a good meal and presentation, Wecompleted the 30° and 32° on August 9 for the 8 candidatesand had a Cap and Ring ceremony on August 12; all werepresent with their ladies. We are now planning our reunion forSeptember 27 and hope to have a large class. On September9 we will be having the Feast of Tishri and invite all to comeand enjoy. We will eat at 7:00 PM and will start the program at8:00 PM. Please come and bring your lady. If you are not aScottish Rite Mason "You should be!"

The Valley of Augusta Scottish Rite meets on the FirstThursday of each month. Dinner is served at 7:00 pm withthe program beginning at 8:00 pm. Our August awards nightwas a huge success with 173 in attendance.

1. September 4th, 2014: Lodge of Perfection Meeting:Open to Family and Friends: Guest speaker is Gene B.Linxwiler the Director of the Fort Jackson National Cemetery.Also a 12 minute musical and photographic power pointpresentation reminder of 911 assembled by Todd Oblak (sonof the General Secretary) and created and presented by

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August 2014 / 25

While washing blue berries this morning getting them readyfor the freezer I started thinking about this “Masonry Thing.”I know a woman cannot be a Mason. It is a man’s organization.But in some ways I am a Mason. Let me explain.

If you are the wife of a Mason and you support him andbelieve in what he is doing then you are a Mason also. IfMasonry takes a good man and makes him better, like so awoman. I know I am a much better woman because of myhusband and what he does. I know we can’t go to meetingsand that is ok with me, I am not a meeting person anyway.My husband can go to as many meeting as he likes and I willsupport him in all that he takes on to further his MasonicEducation.

It costs to travel around to all the different lodges and eventsto sell for the Children’s Home but we are much richer becauseof it. If it were not for this project of ours to help the childrenwe would not have met so many, many nice and wonderfulpeople. Our blessings come from two different sources.

1. Raising money for the Children’s Home (a labor oflove).

2. Getting to meet and know others from all around thestate who share the same ideas and dreams. God has reallyblessed us with many friends and acquaintances.

It just doesn’t get any better than this.Yes, I am a woman, and yes, I am a Mason at heart.

With Love,Sharon D. Bailey

Thoughts of a Mason’s Wife

The Kid’s Store

Stop by our booth at Grand Lodge. We have ties, lapelpins, tail light decals, funeral packs, hats, cooking aprons, bibsand lots more, even a big smile for you.

All proceeds go to the Masonic Children’s Home in Ma-con.

Thank you for the support you have given to the Children’sHome in the past years.

Richard and Sharon Bailey

General Secretary, Gregory Oblak, 33°.2. September 20 is our Dinner Theater for the

membership: Catered seafood and chicken all you can eatbuffet and performances by the 8th Regiment Band andAugusta Bel Canto, an A capella singing group. Cost is $35per person. Tickets still available.

3. October 2: LOP meeting: Feast of Tishri Ceremonyand Guest speaker on Biblical Coins.

4. October 10 & 11: Fall Reunion.5. Renovations: Cap Room and Secretary’s Office

Renovations nearing completion. Installation of Dry Wall,new hardwood flooring, shelving, ceilings, chair rail, andmoldings, and new bookshelves and desk. Stop by to see ourbeautiful facility if you are in the area.

Sand-Pit Degree Scheduled

Saturday, October 11, 2014Dinner served at St. John the Baptist Lodge

2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.$7.00 donation suggested

Travel to Sand Pit at 4:00 p.m.Degree begins at 4:30 p.m.

led by the Dallas Fellowcraft Club.Grand Master and his officers will be present.

In 1935, Dr. F. C. Wilson, a Past Master of St. John theBaptist Lodge, proposed that an anniversary of the Lodge beheld as near as possible to the lodge’s original location in Troupville.A pit was dug, representing the ground floor of the Lodge.

After World War II, the sale of sand forced the sand-pitto move. In 1954, the Lodge contacted Bro. James Simpsonabout a permanent location for the annual event. The Simpsonfamily leased five acres to the Lodge for 50 years at the costof $1; the lease has since been extended for another 50 years.a permanent cement pit was dug. Most Worshipful BrotherMarshall Chapman, Grand Master, dedicated the new site atthe meeting in October 1954. Attendance was said to havebeen nearly 2,000.

The highest attendance recorded at the sand-pit degreewas 2,300. Gov. and Bro. Herman Talmadge spoke at one ofthe gatherings.

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26 / August 2014

Masons Provide Water at 4th of July Roadrace for 10th YearFor the tenth year in a row, Breth-

ren from Fulton Lodge No. 216, alongwith Brethren from other lodges, ar-rived at the water table early to preparefor the mass of thirsty runners whowould soon charge down PeachtreeStreet in the Atlanta Peachtree Roadrace.

Runners grabbed cups of waterwithout slowing down in their dash for

the finish line. Most took time to shoutout a “thank you Masons” as theytook a cup.

Volunteers of all ages lended a hand in the communityeffort.

Wor. Bro. Herbert Hughes, a former trustee to theChildren's Home, presents a check for $7,000 for the

Masonic Children’s Home to Most Worshipful Bro. BobbyB. Simmons, PGM, Grand Treasurer, and Cordelia Lodge

Worshipful Master Cliff Nipper at a Table Lodge atCordelia No. 296. The check was a donation made onbehalf of the family of former Crisp County Sheriff

Donnie Haralson. Sheriff Haralson recently passed awayafter a long bought with cancer.

Donation to the Children’s Home

Wor. Master Barry Davis, Grovetown Lodge No. 730,and Eagle Scouts Matthew L Chambers, Jonathan AlexanderFrancisco and Marshall Peter Knox, with Right WorshipfulBro. Joseph Watson, Grand Secretary, who presented theawards.

Grovetown Lodge No. 730 sponsored Matthew andJonathan.

Harlem Lodge No. 276 sponsored Marshall.

Eagle Scouts Receive Masonic Awards

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August 2014 / 27

Masons in Georgia have an outstanding opportunity toexpand their fraternal bonds and learning. The Scottish RiteValleys of Atlanta and Maconare joining together with theirregional Shrine counterparts,Yaarab and Al Sihah to offercombined classes.

The Valley of Macon andAl Sihah Shrine will offer acombined Reunion andCeremonial Oct. 24th & 25th

in Macon.The Valley of Atlanta and

Yaarab Shrine will offer acombines Reunion and Ceremonial Nov. 7th & 8th in Atlanta.

Both offer the opportunity to join both Scottish Rite andShrine for $200 which is significantly less than the cost ofjoining each separately. As an additional benefit the dues for2015 are included for both organizations. Financially, this is a“No Brainer.” If you already belong to Shrine or ScottishRite, you may join the other for $100. There are a fewdifferences between the Atlanta and Macon opportunities soyou are urged to contact the following for more details.

Growing the Craft with Combined Reunions / CeremonialsEqually important to the financial savings is the

opportunity to expand your fraternal bonds and meet moreof your brothers. Youmay be looking to enhancethe learning experience youstarted in your BlueLodge. Both organizationssupport charitable workthat helps children.

The websites ateach of the OrganizationsListed above will havemore information and

petitions. Take advantage of these great opportunities.Yaarab Shrine: Phone: (404) 872-5818 … Web Page; http:/

/www.yaarabshrine.net/Al Sihah Shrine: Phone: (478) 785-5900 … Web page;

http://www.alsihahshriners.com/Scottish Rite Valley of Atlanta: Phone: (404) 873-3659;

Web Page: http://atlantascottishrite.org/Scottish Rite Valley of Macon: Phone: (478)-745-4025;

Web Page: http://www.maconscottishrite.com/

To Dr. Gary Leazer, Editor, the Masonic Messenger

Dear Brother Leazer:I read with great interest the article on “The History of

the Uniform Work of the Grand Lodge of Georgia,” byWor. Bro. Rusty Newport, in the June 2014 issue of the Ma-sonic Messenger. Bro. Newport’s paper included a numberof details of which I was unaware and I am impressed withhis scholarship and his ability to present the information in aninteresting manner.

There is, however, a grievous error which I hope will benoted in a future issue of our Grand Lodge publication. Bro.Newport is incorrect when he states that Bro. Joseph C.Greenfield (who in 1912 proposed the establishment of aGrand Lodge committee to complete and promulgate theUnited Ritual for Georgia) was of Piedmont Lodge. WorBro. Greenfield was a member of Gate City Lodge No. 2and served as Gate City’s Worshipful Master in 1898. He diedDecember 20, 1920.

We of Gate City Lodge take pride in the role that GateCity men played in the creation of a uniform work for Geor-gia. As Bro. Newport indicates, Joseph Greenfield pushedhard to have a uniform work adopted and when a version

was finally performed at Grand Lodge on October 26, 1916,he was chairman of the responsible committee. (Sitting in thechair of the Worshipful Master for that demonstration wasanother Gate City man, Wor. Bro. Joseph Gregg, Jr., GateCity’s WM in 1914.) The ‘heavy lifting’ of getting the workpromulgated to the Lodges of Georgia fell to Wor. Bro. J.LeRoy Duncan, who succeeded Greenfield as chairman in1916; Bro. Duncan was another Gate City man, having beenWM of the lodge in 1913. He, in turn, was succeeded in De-cember 1917 as chairman of the uniform work committeeby Wor. Bro. John W. Bachman, Worshipful Master of GateCity in 1917.

Future researchers will appreciate Bro. Newport’s paperand cite it in their work, so we request that a notice of JosephGreenfield’s correct Lodge affiliation be included in a futureissue.

Sincerely and fraternally, Fred L. Williams, III, Historian,

Gate City Lodge No. 2

Correction to a Recent Messenger Article

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28 / August 2014

Brothers, this month, I would like to give you a little triviathat I think you might enjoy. Everyone has heard the song, “Music, Music, Music” and ‘Strike up the Band.” Last monthwe remembered our fathers, when many children and spousesmissed theirs due to deployments overseas, but also Flag Daywas the 14th. A special day to stop and pay homage andshow respect for our National Emblem that so many of ourpast has fought, bled and died for. Music, Music, Music! Just what does Music have to dowith Military Trivia you ask? Let me relate to you a story ofsome famous Mason’s who used a military band to aid thetroops during battle, and show the importance of music intheir lives. Two famous terms now used in the music industry,came from the actions of music in the military: “The Battleof the Bands” and “Strike up the Band.” Almost oblivious to the struggles and successes of musicpublishers in the big cities, far away were the Union andConfederate soldiers themselves. To them, music meant relieffrom boredom and stress and a way to kindle memories ofloved ones and home. Many soldiers relished performancesby the regimental bands, which were far more prevalent in theNorth than in the South. A performance by a military bandoften included marches, patriotic songs, old favorites, religiousmelodies, dance tunes, classical music and popular songs ofthe day. Although military bands were normally moved out ofharm’s way before a battle, in several instances they wereordered to “Strike up the Band” in the heat of battle. UnionGen. Sheridan ordered his military band to the front at theBattle of Dinwiddie Court House and ordered them to playloudly their gayest tunes and: “never mind if a bullet goesthrough a trombone, or even a trombonist, now and then.”In response, a Confederate band was brought to the front tocounteract the fervor generated by the Federal Band. Afirsthand account of the “Battle of the Bands” was later writtenby the commander of the 1st Maine Cavalry: “Our band came up from the rear and cheered andanimated our hearts by its rich music; ere long a Rebel bandreplied by giving us Southern airs; with cheers from each sidein encouragement of its own band, a cross fire of “The StarSpangled Banner,” “Yankee Doodle Dandy” and “JohnBrown” mingled with “Dixie, and “Bonnie Blue Flag.” Another famous Mason, Gen Robert E Lee, once madethe statement: “I don’t believe we can have an army withoutmusic.” And he was so right. For soldiers in both armies,music played a vital role in uplifting morale, rallying patriotism,and banishing loneliness, fighting homesickness, and raisingspirits of the troops.

Veterans CornerRick Conn, Grand Lodge Veterans Committee, State Chairman

Music always follows military personnel everywhere theygo. They are aroused in the morning with the first call of thebugle, riveted into step by drums and fifes, serenaded in campby banjos, fiddles and harmonicas, (today by the use of I-pads and I-phones) and even put to sleep by a lone bugler. But although instrumental music was linked to almost everystep the soldier made, it was the songs that mattered most.Sung by both soldiers and those that stayed behind, it was thesongs that really expressed the emotions, fired the patriotismand filled the emptiness felt by leaving loved ones at homeand facing death at every turn. What would the Fourth of July be without the stirringmilitary, patriotic music played by mostly military bands? Andsome written by another famous Mason, Brother John PhillipSousa, the leader of the U S Marine Corps Military Band! As June passed by, July followed. Let us remember ourheritage and the music that spurred a people to found thegreatest Nation on the face of the earth. With June and FlagDay followed by July and our National Birthday did youall................................ “Strike up the Band?” May God Bless each and every one of you and may GodBless the United States of America.

ENDOWMENT FUND CONTRIBUTIONSJune 4, 2014 to August 20, 2014

$500 OR MORETucker Lodge No. 42Lawrenceville Lodge No. 131Mt. Airy Lodge No. 141Plainville Lodge NO. 141W. H. (Buz) Moulton, Jr.Woodmen of the World 1245

$1,000 OR MOREWaycross Lodge No. 305Middle GA Daylight Lodge No. 756Aubrey DerdenParnell DixonJames H. HalliganDonnie R. HaralsonHelen S. McPheetersJoshua O. MorrisTom PhillipsSilicon Valley Community FoundationStephen RosenbergRuskin Family Trust

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August 2014 / 29

Members Reported Deceasedfrom June 4, 2014

to August 20, 2014In MemoriumIn MemoriumIn MemoriumIn MemoriumIn MemoriumName Lodge No. Name Lodge No.

EAST, WILLIAM HENRY 1SOLROBERSON, RAY FIELD 1SOLWOODS, HAWLEY ALEXANDER 1SOLWATERMAN, KEITH PRESTON 1SOCDEAL, CHARLES TARVER 003BAKER, FRED (NMN) 005SHUE, JAMES MONROE 005DAVIS, THOMAS MARION SR 006DOBBS, WILLIAM LOYD 006BAGGETT, VERNON JOSEPH 008JONES, CARL JACKSON JR 008IVEY, WILLIAM PAUL 012BROWN, BANKS 013DOWDY, WILLIAM DOYLE 013ISRAEL, TAYLOR BINGHAM 013SMITH, TOMMY CHARLES 013TANNER, BENNIE [NMN] 013WEBB, ROBERT HARVEY 014KNIGHT, JOHN CARLTON 015SEALS, EDMOND EARL 016BENSON, HAROLD MILES 018PAYNE, JAMES WILLARD 018CASH, LAWRENCE HAROLD 024RUCKER, JIMMY THOMPSON 025BRIDGES, BENJAMIN THAD 027STOWE, MARION WALLACE 027DUPREE, PHILIP JOE 028PIRKLE, THOMAS NELSON 028WEST, CALVIN LEE 028MCCALL, LARRY WAY 032SHUMAN, FRANCIS JERAREL JR 032COMPTON, JAMES HAROLD 033JACKSON, DEWEY FRANCIS 033PERRY, WILLIAM HILLYARD 033STRICKLAND, JAMES SOLOMON 040DAVIS, CHARLES EDWARD JR 042VAUGHAN, THOMAS ALLEN 042CARRINGTON, JOEL THOMAS 047HANDY, LEONARD VERNON 047HOBBS, JERRY WILLIAM JR 047SWAILS, ALBERT (NMN) 047WALKER, CLIFFORD HOWARD 047ALLEN, JAMES THOMAS 048BRAVO, JOSEPH EDWARD JR 048EVANS, WILLIAM HAROLD 048HEAD, JAMES WESLEY 048HOOPER, DEWEY BRANSON 048

WOODS, SAMUEL WAYNE 048SEALY, BERNARD (NMN) JR 050TURNER, CHARLES TATE SR 050ARTHUR, JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL 055SEARS, RICHARD KENNETH 056MCCONNELL, JAMES EVANS 058HUGGINS, JOHN MARION 059WILSON, JIMMY RAY 063HARRELL, FORREST HUBERT 067MCCLELLAND, BENJAMIN FRITZ 067GREEN, ROBERT DOUGLASS 069GRIFFIN, JOHN HENRY III 070DASHER, JOHN ARTHUR 073SIMMONS, CHARLES ALFRED 075REID, ROBERT WEATHERLY 078DEMPSEY, JAMES WALTER 079HARPER, JOHNNIE HAYNIE JR 079PRINCE, GEORGE WILLIAM 079MASSENGALE, JOHN PATRICK JR 082GALE, EDWARD LENOARD 083REAGIN, JAMES ADDISON 084HANCOCK, GEORGE ETHRIDGE 085DUNN, DAVID HAYES 086ROBERTS, JAMES DARWIN 087SAFRAN, ROBERT JOSEPH SR 096RACHELS, VICTOR KEITH 098MOON, DEWEY HILDRED 099SNELL, CLYDE EARLE 099WAGES, ROBERT EUGENE 099WYATT, EVIE LEONARD 099PAGE, JAMES LEWIS 103HALL, WILFORD HENRY 105TURNER, JACKSON PARKS JR. 105MCCARVER, LEROY (NMN) 106SMITH, ROLAND ALVESTA 106YATES, ALLAN THOMAS 106GWARA, WALTER EDWARD 108HENDRY, SAMUEL RUDOLPH 111LANE, EDDY ADEL SR 112TYRE, JULIAN WRIGHT 112PHILLIPS, GUY LARKIN 113TUMBLIN, JAMES FRANKLIN 113MERRITT, JAMES CLYDE II 115BAKER, NORMAN GAULDING 120YOUNGBLOOD, JAMES EUGENE 120LANDRUM, BENNY WAYNE 121MCCREARY, DOUGLAS ARTHUR 124

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30 / August 2014

SALMAN, SAM DAVID 124SMITH, LYMAN LEE JR 124THOMPSON, JAMES AUBREY JR 124WEAVER, WILLIAM RALPH 126FULLER, JACK DARLING 129CLARK, FRANK DAVID 131GOLDEN, BENJAMIN FRANKLIN 134HOWELL, MARION BRUCE 135MCMICHAEL, HUGH THOMAS 135IDLEMAN, DAVID CARL 137OWENS, THOMAS LAMAR II 137LOUDERMILK, FERMON [NMN] 141BLAXTON, NORMAN CLARK SR 144GOODWIN, GRADY MORRIS SR 144CHANDLER, HORACE G 148HORTMAN, JAMES OLIVER 151PAULK, TOMMY GENE 151BLACKSTON, WILLIAM DAVID 153DARNELL, CHARLES C. (IO) 153MALOY, DAN RUDOLPH 153GREEN, EURAL DEAN 165JOHNSON, RALPH EUGENE 176DAVIS, JAMES CULLEN 178JOHNSON, ARNIE GILBERT JR 180MERONEY, SIDNEY MALCOLM 180COFFMAN, LEE RAMSEY 185GINN, ROBERT SIDNEY 186REYNOLDS, JOHNNIE MAURICE 186RICE, SYDNEY IVAN 186HUDGINS, KENNETH ALAN 191BLOUNT, HORACE WINTON 192DARDEN, LEVIN DAWSON 192FISHER, MARCUS LEE SR. 192HAYNES, WILSON FELIX 192HURST, RALPH JAMES 192LEE, JOHN WALTER 192MCLEAN, LEONARD ANSON 192SAPP, LOWELL HOUSTON 192VINSON, CLINTON DOUGLAS 192FLOYD, GLENN [NMN] 194TRAWICK, HAYNES THOMAS 194JOHNSON, GEORGE WILLIAM 198BAKER, GEORGE WILLIAM 202FUSSELL, GEORGE MCCOY JR 209KENNEDY, REX LEE 210PERRY, HARVEY PAUL 210CANADA, ALBERT LAMAR 211GREEN, FLETCHER EUGENE 212GODLEY, CLYDE HARVEY 214COHEN, VICTOR LOUIS 216HAZEN, HERMAN LOUIS 216HIRSCHFIELD, PAUL PHILIP 216

MASLIA, ALBERT DAVID 216PARADIES, DAN MORTON 216PARKS, BARRY MICHAEL 216CURTIS, HOMER DWAINE 217NICHOLLS, LEONARD JAMES 217REEVES, MARVIN HOWELL 217AUTRY, ASA TALMADGE 219PENDLEY, EULEN ROY 220HALL, HOWARD WILLIAM 221STALVEY, WILLIAM RHODA 224RILEY, CHARLES BERNARD 227PARKS, BOBBY SAM 230STONE, WILLIAM KENNETH 234LONG, WILLIAM ERVIN SR. 237THOMAS, STEVEN LACRUZ 241SHUMAN, FRANCIS JENAREL JR 244BARTH, FRANKLIN ROBERT 246WARD, BRUCE EVANS 249PRICE, WILLIS LEE 251BLEASE, JAMES DUANE 254CHAPPELL, JIMMIE STEWART 254GRACE, LEONARD CARL 255CLEMENSHAW, NEILL ANDERSON 261RAY, LARRY HENRY 261GUEST, WYMER LEE 262PARKER, JAMES EDWARD 262BARRON, DILLARD WAVERLY 265HOUSTON, ARLEN FRANCIS 270NELSON, ALBERT (NMN) JR 271KIGHT, ROBERT GLENN 279ROGERS, LOYD [NMN] 279BURNS, BRUCE RONALD 280STEWART, DAVID WALLACE 288HAMMONTREE, RALPH HENDERSON SR 291BAILEY, RICHARD WAYNE 292DOLLAR, GEORGE RONALD 292HOLLMAN, ROBERT EDWIN 295THOMAS, JOE MIKE 299CHESTER, ROY EVERETT 301HARDEN, CECIL EUGENE 304ROBERSON, OSCAR RUFUS 305WILLIAMS, DENNIS FAIN JR 306GRIFFIN, JOHN HENRY III 307CAMPBELL, ALTON DE 314PHILLIPS, RONALD EDWARD 316THOMAS, GEORGE ROSCOE 316STRINGER, JAMES CURTIS 321GARRETT, JERRY LEE 323ADAMS, HARVEY JACKSON 325ROPER, GROVER CHARLES 325BRIESE, ROBERT JOHN 326TAYLOR, THOMAS CLINT 330

Name Lodge No. Name Lodge No.

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August 2014 / 31

BURCH, WALTER FIELDS 334PEEK, CHARLES TONEY 337THOMAS, JEWELL DEAN 352TAYLOR, HORACE PHILLIP 369THURMOND, EDWARD STARR 376YORK, DENNIS ALEXANDER 382BLACK, IRA HILTON 385CLAYTON, JOSEPH RICHARD 385CHAMBERS, ROBERT LEON 397MCDANIEL, BILLY JOE 397FITCH, SCOTTY (NMN) 399MITCHELL, RUSSELL HAROLD 399MORRIS, JAMES DONALD 399SCROGGS, THOMAS LOY 399SMITH, WILLIE DEWEESE 399LEGGETT, MIRON ARTHID 412PERRY, EDWARD EUGENE 412SANDEFUR, LEO (NMN) 412SIDELLA, FRANK CHARLES 412WILLIAMS, RICHARD [NMN] 412MOORE, FRED KELLEY 421STEELE, HORACE HOWARD 424DOWD, JAMES LAFAYETTE 428FRACHISEUR, EZZARD LAMAR 433RODDENBERRY, SAMMY HALL 440CORLEY, JOHN WALLACE JR 443FOSTER, EDWIN HOMER 443TOWERY, TOMMY SAM 443CHAPMAN, DONALD WAYNE 444HYDE, DARRELL M. (IO) 444MCCREARY, DOUGLAS ARTHUR 444SCHETTGEN, EUGENE FREDERIC 444STERNBERG, EDWARD FRANK 444SWEAT, DALE LAMAR 444GERHARDT, HOWARD CARL 452HOWE, ARTHUR WESLEY 452CARVER, JOHN HERMAN 454PRITCHARD, EXALE (NMN) 456CHAMBERS, ROBERT LEON 466SHAVERS, AUBREY GLENN 466STEWART, BILLY FUTCH 469HEAD, HENRY ALDINE 480JOHNSON, EDSEL ALAN 509GARTRELL, HENRY CARL 534HENDERSON, HERBERT [NMN] 534CABIBI, CHARLES GEORGE 543ALLGOOD, TOMMY LAMAR 566CLAXTON, ERNEST JACK 586OWENS, WEYMAN BYRON 586LAYMAN, FREDRICK BRYAN JR 591KUYKENDALL, RICKEY GERALD 600EVANS, LEONARD LAMAR JR 603

STOREY, JAMES MONROE 604PARROTT, J. B. (IO) 640TUCKER, JOSEPH ALTON 663MORGAN, ALBERT HOMER 664STUCKEY, ORVILLE LEON SR 664PACE, CHARLES EMMITT 674PRUETT, WILLIAM STOKES JR 674STANFIELD, RALPH ROBERT 679FLEMING, ALTON WILLIE 690COBB, HENRY EUGENE 694GRAVITT, TONY RAY 694BROWNING, JOSEPH PRICE 698HAYES, WENDLE NEAL 698MIDDLETON, CECIL EVON 698SMITHSON, HANFORD DELANO 699AMOS, RAYMOND FRANKLIN 707BRYAN, WILLIAM JENNINGS 707MATHEWS, WILLIAM JOHN 707ROBERTSON, DONALD EDMUND 707SPRAYBERRY, WILLIAM ODIS 708BANKS, EDGAR LEWIS JR. 709DUNCAN, DAVID JOHN SR. 709GUYTON, CARLTON RENNA 709THOMPSON, CLAUDE [NMN] JR 710CURBOW, JOE BRANNON SR 711GRIFFIN, CHARLES LAMAR SR. 716HERRING, DANIEL CORBETT JR 717CHASTAIN, LUTHER DOYLE 718HOLCOMB, FRANK THOMAS 720WHEELUS, HAROLD EDWARD SR 720CHILTON, REX DOUGLAS 721CREECH, DENNIS BERNARD 721MARTIN, ALMARINE EUGENE 721RAY, JAMES HENRY JR 721PITTS, BILLY JOE 729STODDARD, DALE RICHARD 730TURNER, ROBERT EUGENE 734RICHMOND, BILLY WAYNE 738WILLIAMS, DOYLE FRANKLIN 738CHILTON, REX DOUGLAS 742MCCREARY, DOUGLAS ARTHUR 743WHITE, WILLIAM FRANKLIN 743VAUGHN, FLOYD CARLTON 746WILLIAMS, DOYLE FRANKLIN 747CHILTON, REX DOUGLAS 750COUEY, JAMES CLARENCE 751KNOWLES, CHARLES DONALD 751MCEACHIN, HARRY HALL 753GRIFFIN, JOHN HENRY III 761KNIGHT, JOHN CARLTON 762THRASH, LELAND C. 762

Name Lodge No. Name Lodge No.

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32 / August 2014

50-Year Brothers pose for a photo at theFloyd County Masonic Convention

held recently at Cherokee Lodge No. 66.

FORM FOR CHANGING ADDRESS FOR MESSENGER

The Grand Lodge of Georgia, Free and Accepted MasonsMasonic Messenger811 Mulberry StreetMacon, Georgia 31201-6779

NON-PROFIT ORG.U. S. POSTAGE

PAIDMACON, GA

PERMIT NO. 477

Name in full _________________________________________ Lodge Name and Number ___________________

If you have moved, PLEASE RETURN YOUR ADDRESS LABEL ABOVE TO THE GRAND LODGE OF GEORGIAalong with your new address.

New Address:___________________________________________ _________________________ ___________(Street or P. O. Box) (City) (Zip Code)

MM August 2014.pmd 8/27/2014, 8:23 AM32