Lead By Example - The Grand Lodge of Texas

the
Volume XVIII
Issue 1
Winter 2009
magazine
Official Publication of
the Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F. & A.M.
M...W... W. David Counts, Jr.
2009 Grand Master of
Masons in Texas
Lead By
Example
Volume XVIII • Issue 1 • Winter 2009
the
Table
of Contents
magazine
The Texas Mason is an official
publication of the Grand
Lodge of Texas, A.F. & A.M.
Published quarterly for members
of Texas Lodges and subscribers.
Opinions expressed by the editor
and individual writers are their
own and do not necessarily reflect
official positions of the Grand
Lodge of Texas. Copyright 2009 by
the Trustees of the Grand Lodge of
Texas, all rights reserved.
Publisher
Trustees of the Grand Lodge of Texas
editor
Benjamin Franklin Linduff
copy editor
Clinton M.M. McKenzie
The Texas Mason encourages
submissions
of
items
and
photographs of general interest,
reserving the right to edit and use
only as needs and policies dictate.
Computer documents must be in
PC-compatible format. Materials
should be sent to the editor, P.O.
Box 446, Waco, Texas 76703. All
materials become the property of the
magazine and cannot be returned.
Subscriptions
$6.00 per year in U.S. and Canada,
$15.00 for three years; $10.00 per
year in foreign countries, $25.00 for
three years.
Permission to Reprint
Permission to reprint original
articles appearing in The Texas
Mason is granted all recognized
Masonic publications with credit to
the author and/or The Texas Mason
magazine.
Page 1................................................Grand Master’s Message
Pages 2 and 3............................... 2009 Grand Lodge Officers
Page 4............................................... Grand Master’s Calendar
Results of the 173rd Grand Annual Communication
Page 5................................. Grand Master’s Blue Envelope Appeal
Page 6 and 7........... 2008 Grand Annual Communication Pictures
Page 8 and 9............................................. Mirabeau B. Lamar, Texas
Masonry, and Public Education;
Grand Master’s $1,000 Club of Lodges;
Oldest Mason at Grand Communications
Page 10............................................................... Masonic Family Day
Page 11.................................................... Masonic Home and School
Page 12............................................. Message from Grand Secretary,
2009 Warden’s Retreats
Inside Back Cover................................................ 2009 Jewelry Sales
Outside Back Cover............................ This is Texas! Photo Contest
On the Cover: Upon the pedestal beside Most Worshipful David Counts is
the Bible given to him by his mother when he left horne to go to college. It has
been an inspiration to him ever since. Brother James E. “Pete” Laney, Speaker
of the Texas House of Representatives and Past Master of Orient Lodge No.
905, presented Grand Master Counts the gavel shown in the portrait. It was
given to him to Chair the House Natural Resources Committee during the ten
years Brother Laney served as Speaker. Photo by Roger Bell, Scotish Rite Hospital.
Due to budget constraints there will only be 3 issues of the Texas Mason this year. The
Winter issue which you are reading now. The next issue will be in the form of a newsletter
which will be published in June. This issue will contain no pictures and will be informational
in nature. The final issue will be published in October and will return to magazine format.
News and articles from around the state will continue to be published in a web based
format on the Grand Lodge web site. Please continue to send your articles and Lodge events
to the Editor of The Texas Mason Magazine. The preferred method of submitting Articles
is via email with an attached MS Word Document, pictures separate in jpg format to
blinduff@satx.rr.com . If you do not have email send your submissions to The Grand Lodge of
Texas, Attn; Editor Texas Mason Magazine, P.O. Box 446, Waco Texas 76703.
GRAND MASTER’S MESSAGE
Lead By Example
Brethren, you have given me a great honor. Sometimes I hate to
wake up in the morning because I’m afraid this is just a fantastic dream.
However upon awaking, I find that I am now in a position of ultimate
responsibility to you, the membership of the Grand Lodge of Texas. The
honor of being elected Grand Master is secondary to the greatest honor
you gave me when you accepted me into this fraternity. You allowed
me to join a worldwide organization that contains the finest men on
the planet. Because I want it to continue to have the quality of men we
possess, I am asking each of you to consider my program for the coming
year.
The major emphasis this year will be, “Lead by Example”. Our every
action and word is always subject to being viewed and/or heard by
someone who does not know us, but will recognize the ring, lapel pin,
hat pin, belt buckle, hat, golf shirt, or sticker on our cars and trucks that
bear the emblem of the square and compasses. Except for the “Cross,”
the square and compasses are the most recognized symbol in the world.
Therein lies the paradox, my Brothers. While we are proud that we are
so recognized, we also subject ourselves to the greatest scrutiny. That is
why we must keep our passions within those limits that are taught us
Photo by Roger Bell, Scotish Rite Hospital.
in our degrees, and practice moderation in our indulgences. We must
avoid those actions that are contrary to our teachings, and exemplify those actions we are taught to perform.
In our daily activities we come in contact with many fine men who would derive much benefit from our
fraternity, and at the same time be assets to the craft. Only by our constant, positive individual example and
the visible good works of our constituent Lodges, will these men consider becoming part of our fraternity. So,
ultimately, by adhering to the teachings of the craft, we become better men and at the same time our Leadership
becomes an example for others to follow. This can result in good men asking for a petition for our fraternity.
What a wonderful occurrence, as a result of our actions, we get new men petitioning our fraternity while we
continue to improve ourselves in Masonry and offer more light to those fine men around us.
This brings us to the second part of my “Lead by Example” program, and that is to “Replace Yourself.” I
want each of you to be the top line signer on a petition, not just once, but once every year. If you do this you are
truly leading by example and ensuring the future of the greatest fraternity on earth.
Thank you my Brothers for the confidence you have placed in me to lead our fraternity this year. With God’s
help and yours, I will do the best I can for our fraternity.
Fraternally,
W. David Counts, Jr.
Grand Master
The Texas Mason Magazine
www.grandlodgeoftexas.org
Winter 2009 • Page 1
2009
Grand
Lodge
of Texas
Officers
Orville L. O’Neill
Deputy Grand Master
Thomas E. “Gene” Carnes
Grand Senior Warden
James F. “Jim” Brumit • Grand Junior Warden
Right Worshipful Brother James F.
“Jim” Brumit, son of Pearl and Floyd
Brumit, was born January 3, 1930,
in Dallas, Texas. He graduated from
Sunset High School in Dallas, Texas,
and graduated from Draughan’s
Business College. Jim married Dorothy
Elizabeth Hill in 1950. They both
attended the same schools and were
friends since the third grade. They had
one daughter, Vicki Quesada, and one
grandson, Stuart. Elizabeth suffered a
fatal heart attack in 1992. They were
members of the Presbyterian Church
all their married life, and Jim continues
to be a member, having served as a
deacon and elder.
Jim’s professional experience
includes being a member of the Dallas
Police Department for 29 years serving
as a patrolman, detective and sergeant. His assignments
included investigating crimes that were committed on
school properties, sex crimes committed against children,
criminal intelligence work and security assignments for
visiting dignitaries. Following his career as a police officer,
Jim began a career of bookkeeping and tax work and is
currently self-employed, and has become an Enrolled Agent
with the Internal Revenue Service.
Jim was elected and installed Grand Junior Warden of
the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Texas on December
6, 2008. He petitioned Gibraltar Lodge No. 1179 for
membership at the age of 27, and was initiated, passed and
raised as a Master Mason in 1958. He is a plural member
in Sunshine Lodge No. 341, Cedar Hill Lodge No. 1380,
Northern Star Lodge No. 377, Knox-Corinthian Lodge No.
851, and with the merger of Gibraltar Lodge No. 1179 is now
a member in Oak Cliff Lodge No. 705. He holds an endowed
membership in Oak Cliff Lodge No. 705, Tranquility Lodge
No. 2000 and the Texas Lodge of Research. Having served his
Lodges in many capacities, he has been
Worshipful Master in Gibraltar Lodge
No. 1179 in 1966-67 and Sunshine
Lodge No. 341 in 2003-2004, as well
as the current Secretary of Sunshine
Lodge No. 341. Prior to becoming an
officer he received his first Esoteric
Certificate in 1959 and was presented
a Life Certificate in 1984. Jim was
appointed District Deputy Grand
Master in 1969 in Masonic District
14-A, and in 2006 served as District
Deputy Grand Master-at-Large. He
has served on several Grand Lodge
Committees, including the Mileage
and
Transportation
Committee,
the Youth Activities Committee,
Petitions No. 2, all of which he was
Chairman, and he has been a member
of the Masonic Education and Service,
Grievances and Appeals, Affiliation and Reinstatements,
and most recently, the Finance Committee. He served for
many years in the Grand Master’s Conference program as
Regional Coordinator, and as State Coordinator for Grand
Master A.D. Hanna in 1990, and was Grand Senior Deacon.
In 1999, Grand Master Vernon Burke appointed him
the Grand Senior Steward and lastly he served as Grand
Marshal in 2003 for Grand Master M. Boyd Patterson, Jr. He
is currently the Grand Representative to Columbia Nacional
Barranquilla.
Brother Brumit belongs to numerous Masonic Bodies.
Becoming a member of the Dallas Scottish Rite Bodies in
1958, he was coroneted 33° Scottish Rite Mason in 1997. He
holds membership in all of the York Rite bodies, Eastern
Star, Grotto, Shrine, Knight Masons and Allied Masonic
Degrees.
Jim has served his Lodges well and is more than ready
to serve the Grand Lodge of Texas and looks forward to the
new challenge.
Archie Scott
Grand Treasurer
Tommy D. Guest
Grand Secretary
Steven Ray Pepper
Grand Chaplain
Jerry L. Martin
Grand Orator
Aubrey Glen McCandless Paul Wendell Adkins
Grand Senior Deacon
Grand Junior Deacon
Michie M. Brous
Grand Organist
Edward D. Squyres
Grand Pursuivant
Jim Nyfeler
Grand Marshal
Clyde B. Kenneaster C. Clark Stephenson, III
Grand Senior Steward Grand Junior Steward
Billy Don Comedy
Grand Photographer
John Dwayne Bearden
Grand Tiler
All Officer photos by John Lawson.
Grand
Master’s
Calendar
(For updates or an annual
calendar of events, visit website)
FEBRUARY
7 Sat
21 Sat
21 Sat
23 Mon
28 Sat
GM Conference Beaumont
10:00 A.M.
GM Visit York Rite Festival - Holland Lodge No. 1 7:00 A.M.
OV 108th District 6:30 P.M.
OV 107th District 6:30 A.M.
TMRC Cornerstone Ceremony Time TBD
MARCH
4 Wed
7 Sat
7 Sat
13 Fri
14 Sat
16 Mon
21 Sat
25 Wed
27 Fri
28 Sat
Cornerstone Ceremony – N. Cent. Tx. College
Alamo Observance
GM Conference – San Antonio
District No. 48 – GM Banquet-Salado
GM Conference – Austin
Official Visit – District 6
Tx. Lodge of Research Installation - Hillsboro
Red Cross of Constantine – Tyler
“Bridge of Light” – Austin
GM Banquet – Corpus Christi
GM Conference Corpus Christi
Goliad Observance
11:00 A.M.
9:00 A.M.
1:00 P.M.
7:00 P.M.
3:00 P.M.
6:30 P.M.
10:00 A.M.
7:00 P.M.
9:00 A.M.
3:00 P.M.
APRIL
3 Fri
4 Sat
11 Sat
15 Wed
18 Sat
22 Wed
24 Fri
25 Sat
25 Sat
26 Sun
27 Mon
29 Wed
York Rite Banquet – Waco
GM Conference –Waco 9:00 A.M.
Red Cross of Constantine Installation – Wichita Falls
GM Conference –Lubbock
9:00 A.M.
GM Conference – Amarillo
3:00 P.M.
Official Visit Clarendon No. 700
7:00 P.M.
Cornerstone Ceremony – Jacksboro H.S.
2:00 P.M.
GM Conference – Houston
10:00 A.M.
Official Visit – District 64
6:00 P.M.
Grand Commandry
Grand Commandry
Tranquillity Lodge No.2000 – Houston
10:30 A.M.
Grand Commandry
GM at Dell Diamond – Round Rock
Official Visit – District 14
6:30 P.M.
MAY
2 Sat
7 Thur
8 Fri
9 Sat
13 Wed.
14 Thur
16 Sat
17 Sun
23 Sat
27 Wed
30 Thur
GM Conference –El Paso
Rocker B Ranch – SR Committee
Rocker B Ranch – SR Committee
GM Conference – Ft. Worth
Scottish Rite Hosp. Board Mtg.
Scottish Rite Hosp. Board Mtg.
Official Visit Post Oak Island No. 181
Masonic Oak – Brazoria
100th Anniversary – Hermleigh No. 987
Official Visit – District 30
150th Anniversary – Relief No. 236
Page 4 • Winter 2009
10:00 A.M.
10:00 A.M.
Results of the 173rd Grand
Annual Communication
Resolutions, Recommendations,
and Elections
Resolutions
2007 Holdover Resolution No. 7 – Adopted
Resolution No. 1 – Not adopted
Resolution No. 2 – Not adopted
Resolution No. 3 – Adopted
Resolution No. 4 – Not adopted
Resolution No. 5 – Not adopted
Resolution No. 6 – Not adopted
Resolution No. 7 – Adopted
Resolution No. 8 – Not adopted
Resolution No. 9 – Not adopted
Resolution No. 10 – Tabled for legislation in 2009
Resolution No. 11 – Adopted as amended
Resolution No. 12 – Not adopted
Resolution No. 13 – Not adopted
Resolution No. 14 – Adopted as amended
Resolution No. 15 – Withdrawn
Resolution No. 16 – Adopted as amended
Resolution No. 17 – Withdrawn
Resolution No. 18 – Withdrawn
Resolution No. 19 – Adopted
Resolution No. 20 – Adopted
Resolution No. 21 – Adopted
Resolution No. 22 – Not adopted
Resolution No. 23 – Adopted
GM Recommendations
GM Recommendation No. 1 – Adopted
GM Recommendation No. 2 – Adopted
Elections
GM – W. David Counts, Jr.
DGM – Orville L. O’Neill
GSW – T. E. “Gene” Carnes
GJW – James F. “Jim” Brumit
GT – Archie Scott
GS – Tom Guest
Committee on Work – T. K. Anthony
Board of Directors of the Masonic Home & School –
John Henry “Jack” Jeter
Board of Directors of the Masonic Grand Lodge
Library & Museum – Lyndon Olson, Jr.
www.grandlodgeoftexas.orgThe Texas Mason Magazine
2009 Grand
Master’s Blue
Envelope Appeal
Dear Brother:
We live in a time of great fraternal
opportunity and face an economic challenge
not seen in most of our lives. Our Grand
Lodge Temple in dire need of repair and
upgrades, and I have met many Masons
who wish to see this tradition of Texas
Masonry continue. Accordingly, I am
appealing to our membership for their
assistance in keeping the Grand Lodge
Building maintained.
Let me speak plainly.
The
infrastructure of the Building is
deteriorating badly and the maintenance
costs have increased. The Board of
Directors of the Masonic Grand Lodge Library and Museum
of Texas are trying to secure and stabilize the building, and then proceed with upgrades
as funding allows. In recent years, the per capita dues and returns on endowments have been unable to keep up
with the rising costs.
For a number of years you have received solicitations from vendors offering merchandise on behalf of the
Grand Lodge. Some of us find these third party contacts annoying and actually a small part of the proceeds go
to support Masonic programs.
In 2009 your Grand Lodge Trustees are expressing faith in you and our other Texas Brother Freemasons by
appealing to you directly, without a third party vendor who gets a cut. You will not receive several appeals
to sell merchandise or to offer address labels. Because the 2009 funds are dedicated to the 501-C-3 Library &
Museum, your contribution is deemed to be tax deductible.
Please consider returning a gift of support in the envelope provided in the centerfold of the Texas Mason
Magazine. Help keep the Texas Tradition going. May the Supreme Architect of the Universe continue to bless you
and your family.
#9 Blue App
eal Envelop
e.indd 1
1/15/09 11:0
5:26 AM
Sincerely and fraternally,
W. David Counts, Jr.
Grand Master of Masons in Texas

Name:_________________________________________ ID Number:__________________ Phone:_________________
Address:_____________________________________________ City, State, Zip:________________________________
I can help by enclosing
□$10 □$25 □$50 □$100 □ Other $_______
Please Return in Envelope Provided in this Publication.
The Texas Mason Magazine
www.grandlodgeoftexas.org
Winter 2009 • Page 5
173rd Grand Annual Commun
Page 6 • Winter 2009
www.grandlodgeoftexas.orgThe Texas Mason Magazine
nication • December 4-6, 2008
All photos on this page by Jerry Smith
The Texas Mason Magazine
www.grandlodgeoftexas.org
Winter 2009 • Page 7
Mirabeau B. Lamar, Texas Masonry,
and Public Education
Mirabeau B. Lamar, Texas Masonry,
To understand
impactEducation
that the Masonic Fraternity had on
andthe
Public
Public Education in Texas, one must be aware of the importance
of Education to the Masonic Fraternity. The importance of a good
To understand the impact that the Masonic
liberal education is part of the teaching of our degrees, and is
Fraternity
had on
Public Education in Texas,
covered in detail
in our second
degree.
must be
of thewere
importance
Texas wasone
founded
by aware
men who
Masons.ofFrom the
Education
the Masonic
The of the
Father of Texas,
Stephen F.toAustin,
to everyFraternity.
single president
Republic of Texas,
and oftenofover
half of
the elected
and appointed
importance
a good
liberal
education
is part
officials of the of
Republic,
Masons
held
offices
in
Texas
government.
the teaching of our degrees, and is covered
It is only natural,
then, in
that
these
men degree.
would work to establish a
in detail
our
second
system of education that reflected their Masonic values.
Noted Texas historian (and non-Mason) Frederich Eby, said it
Texas was founded by men who were
best when he wrote:
Masons.
Fromisthe
Father toof the
Texas,
Stephen
“Education
in Texas
indebted
courageous
F. Austin,
to every
single president
of thein
assistance
of the Masonic
Brotherhood
for their labors
Republic
of Texas, and
half
of the
championing
the establishment
of itsoften
publicover
school
system
at the most
critical
in its officials
history… of
Thethe
evidence
elected
andmoment
appointed
leaves little
doubt that
Masons
were
usingin
every
means
Republic,
Masons
held
offices
Texas
in their government.
power, in government,
in private
associations,
It is only
natural,
then, thatinthese
religious bodies and with individuals, to bring about the
men would work to establish a system of
creation of educational institutions.”
education
that reflected
Masonic
No Texas Mason
did more
for Publictheir
Education
thanvalues.
Mirabeau B. Lamar.
Mirabeau Bonaparte Lamar was born in Milledgeville, Georgia.on April 16th, 1798, to a well-to-do family.
NotedofTexas
(and
non-Mason)
Frederich
said Georgia
it best when
he where
wrote:he was
He took advantage
every historian
educational
opportunity
afforded
him inEby,
the rural
country
raised, and he loved to read and educated himself through books. But Lamar was no bookworm… as a boy,
he became an “Education
expert horseman
and an
excellent fencer,
and he won aassistance
gold medal
GeorgiaBrotherhood
State fencing
in Texas
is indebted
to the courageous
of as
thethe
Masonic
champion. Hisfor
skill
on
horseback
and
with
a
sword
would
serve
him
well
during
his
military
career.
Lamar
also
their labors in championing the establishment of its public school system at the
most
was an excellent speaker, painted with oils, and was very good at writing poetry.
critical moment in its history… The evidence leaves little doubt that Masons were using
At age 25, Lamar secured a position as the private secretary to Georgia Governor. In this position, Lamar
every means in their power, in government, in private associations, in religious bodies
issued press releases and toured the state giving speeches on behalf of the governor. On one of his trips, he met
and
withheindividuals,
to bring
of educational
institutions.”
Tabatha Jordan,
whom
married in 1826.
Theabout
couplethe
hadcreation
a daughter,
and then a son.
Starting in about 1830, Lamar endured a series of tragedies. His father passed away, and then he lost two of
Nowife
Texas
Mason
did
for Public
B.died.
Lamar.
his brothers. His
Tabatha
died
ofmore
tuberculosis
and Education
a year and athan
day Mirabeau
later, his son
Lamar was so devastated over the loss of his wife and son that in 1835 he closed his home, left his daughter
Rebecca in theMirabeau
care of his Bonaparte
mother, andLamar
boarded
a stage
Georgia,
bound for
Texas.
was
bornininColumbus,
Milledgeville,
Georgia.on
April
16th, 1798, to a
Soon after well-to-do
arriving in family.
Texas inHe
thetook
spring
of 1836, of
Lamar
learned
of the opportunity
death of his friend
andhim
Masonic
advantage
every
educational
afforded
in
brother James Fannin at Goliad, and joined Masonic brother Sam Houston’s army as a private.
the rural Georgia country where he was raised, and he loved to read and educated himself
books. But Lamar was no bookworm… as a boy, he became an expert horseman
Battle ofthrough
San
Jacinto and Texas Independence
and an excellent fencer, and he won a gold medal as the Georgia State fencing champion.
On the eveHis
of the
battle
of San Jacinto,
Mexican
Army
had
surrounded
Texas
War
skill
on horseback
andparts
withofa the
sword
would
serve
him
well during
hisSecretary
military of
career.
and Masonic brother Thomas Rusk’s squad of Texans. Lamar mounted his horse, and with a sword in one
Lamar also was an excellent speaker, painted with oils, and was very good at writing
hand and a pistol in the other, he led a small band of men on a daring charge directly into the Mexican lines.
They created apoetry.
gap in the line, which allowed Rusk and his men to escape. The Mexicans were so impressed
with Lamar’s courage and daring, that as the Texans were racing back to the Texas lines, the Mexican Army
AtWhen
age 25,
a position
as the
privateimmediately
secretary topromoted
Georgia Governor.
In this
cheered for him.
he Lamar
arrived secured
back at the
Texan camp,
Houston
him to the rank
of
Colonel, and put
him
in
charge
of
the
cavalry
for
the
Battle
of
San
Jacinto
the
next
day.
position, Lamar issued press releases and toured the state giving speeches on behalf of
After the battle
of San Jacinto
and of
Texas’
independence,
Lamar was
elected
vicepresident
of the
Republic
of
the governor.
On one
his trips,
he met Tabatha
Jordan,
whom
he married
in 1826.
The
Texas under Houston,
and
was
the
unanimous
choice
to
replace
Houston
as
president
in
1838.
couple had a daughter, and then a son.
Page 8 • Winter 2009
www.grandlodgeoftexas.orgThe Texas Mason Magazine
The Second President of the Republic of Texas
During his term as the President of The Republic of Texas, Lamar faced many challenges, ranging from
Mexico’s refusal to recognize the independent nation, to Indian uprisings, to lack of funding for all government
functions… and he was not helped at all by Sam Houston and his supporters, who differed greatly with Lamar’s
plans and goals for Texas.
During Lamar’s term, he appointed a commission to select a permanent site for the capital of the Republic.
After two months of debate, they recommended the small town of Waterloo along the Colorado River. The
town was renamed Austin, and the capital moved there. Lamar also established the Texas Homestead law, and
founded the Texas State Library and Archives, which exists to this day.
Father of Public Education in Texas
Mirabeau Lamar is widely recognized by historians as the Father of Texas Education. During his administration,
he convinced the legislature to set aside 3 leagues of land for each county, for the benefit of the public schools in
that county. An additional 50 leagues of land were set aside for the support of two universities. The founding of
the Texas State Library, and the public school and university land set-asides laid the foundation for a Texas-wide
public school system.
Later Years
After his term as President of the Republic of Texas, Mirabeau Lamar retired to his home in Richmond, Texas.
At the outbreak of the Mexican War, he joined Zachary Taylor’s army as a lieutenant colonel, and fought with
Taylor at the Battle of Monterrey. After the Mexican War, he again returned to Richmond, where he died on 19
December 1859 of a heart attack at the age of 61. Brother Lamar was buried with a Masonic funeral in the Masonic
Cemetery in Richmond, Ft. Bend County, Texas. He was a member of Harmony Lodge #6 in Galveston.
Compiled and written by Dick Brown, Chairman of the Grand Lodge of Texas History Committee, frbrown@grandlodgeoftexas.org
Information compiled from Wikipedia, Handbook of Texas On-Line, “Masonry in Texas” by James David Carter, the staff of the Grand
Lodge of Texas Library and Museum, and other sources.
Grand Master’s $1,000
Club of Lodges
The Grand Master is implementing an idea broached by
PGM Griffin, that several of the Lodges in Texas have sufficient
funds to assist with the operational costs of the Grand Lodge.
The Grand Lodges cash flow is being impaired by the state of
the economy and we need your help. Grand Master Counts
is asking those Lodges who can afford it to become one of
the “$1,000 Club of Lodges.” PGM Griffin and Grand Master
Counts avowed their home Lodges (Winnie-Stowell No. 1377
and Orient No. 905) would become the first members of the
club. A suitable recognition of the $1,000 Club Lodges will be
devised.
Lodges that want to join this group should send their
$1,000 checks to the Grand Secretary, PO Box 446, Waco, Texas
76703. These funds will be set aside by the bookkeeper and
strictly reserved to defray the operational expenses of the
Grand Lodge. Please note that the Grand Lodge is a 501-C10 organization and the donation will not be eligible for a
possible tax write-off.
The Texas Mason Magazine
www.grandlodgeoftexas.org
Pictured above is James K. Biggs
along with PGM Elmer Murphey
III and Grand Master Thomas
Griffin. Brother Biggs is 106 years
of age and was the oldest Mason
in attendence at the 173rd Grand
Communication.
GM Griffin appointed him as an
At-Large D.D.G.M. for the Day.
Winter 2009 • Page 9
Live Music
MASONIC FAMILY DAY 2009
1st Annual
Featuring
Masonic
Donny Broughton
Barbeque Cook
Cook--off
Michael Cote’
Jonelle Berry
Sponsored by Grand
Lodge of Texas
Shady Grove Ramblers
Membership Committee
Elvis Impersonator
Impersonator-Wade Lentz
Sponsored by
Fort Worth Scottish
Rite Valley
Gift of Life Blood Drive
Carter Blood Bank
Door
Prizes
Raffles
Hosted by
TEXAS MASONIC RETIREMENT CENTER
1501 WEST DIVISION
ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76012
Fund Raising
Opportunities
for Lodges
Saturday October 10, 2009
100 Vender Tents with
Door Prizes for Vendors
Sponsored by
Petting Zoo
Grand Chapter
Sponsored by
OES
Dallas Scottish Rite
Valley
&
Grand Commandery of
Texas
Contact
Children’s
Kirby Rudisill
Food and Drinks
Concessions
Activities
(817) 275
275--2893
Available
Hay Ride
Jimmy Emmons
Waco Scottish
Rite Valley
Jump Houses
Pumpkin
Patch
Dunkin’
Booth
Page 10 • Winter 2009
(214) 212
212--5501
Steve McCoy
(817) 247
247--3733
www.grandlodgeoftexas.orgThe Texas Mason Magazine
The Texas Mason Magazine
www.grandlodgeoftexas.org
Winter 2009 • Page 11
Message from the Grand Secretary...
Freemasonry – A Positive Influence
Throughout the centuries, the principles of Freemasonry have been a beacon
of hope, encouragement, and good will among mankind. The 173rd Grand Annual
Communication served as a smooth transition between the 2008 and the 2009 regimes.
PGM Tommy Griffin did an excellent job of leading our Fraternity in 2008 and
conducting the Communication. The 2,777 Masons and the 669 Lodges attending the
Communication made good progress for Freemasonry. Grand Master David Counts is
already providing excellent leadership for the challenges we face in 2009.
The Grand Master urges every member to be a model Mason and to demonstrate the principles of Freemasonry
to the public in a positive manner. He also implores us to seek men of good character and provide our Lodges
with a primary aim “to try to please each other and unite in the grand design of being happy and communicating
happiness.”
I remember as a boy during World War II Princess Elizabeth (now Queen of England) proudly describing
her service to the Country as a driver in the Government car pool. She drove a Vauxvall sedan and she proudly
learned to change its oil and tune the engine. She also said that her favorite song was “On the Sunny Side of the
Street” (written by Jimmy McHugh and Dorothy Fields and performed by Gertrude Lawrence on Broadway).
One of the verses went:
“Grab your coat and get your hat,
Leave your worries on the doorstep.
Life can be so sweet,
On the sunny side of the street.”
Princess Elizabeth was inspiring the British people to serve their Country and keep a positive outlook during
the bleak periods of war.
Masons of Texas could emulate Princess Elizabeth during the bleak period of our economy, doing their service
to the Craft and keeping a positive attitude. This is the time we need to apply the principles of Freemasonry to
our Lodge, our community, and our Brethren. We will have to search for scarce pennies and watch our spending.
Lodges must be cared for and used as a place where men of good character and their families come together for
fellowship and warmth.
We have Lodges throughout Texas doing this now. One of my favorites is Bluff Dale Lodge No. 724 who has a
strong heritage of supporting members, their families, and the community. Most Masons have fond memories of
various Lodges around the State. Encourage members of your Lodge to maintain a good attitude and to extend
the positive influence tradition of Freemasonry in Texas.
Let’s walk “on the sunny side of the street.”
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Tom Guest
Grand Secretary
2009 WARDEN’S RETREAT & LEADERSHIP TRAINING PROGRAM
There will be two workshops in 2009, on August 1 - 2, 2009 and the second on August 8 - 9, 2009. Both
will be held at the Waco Scottish Rite, 2801 W. Waco Drive, Waco, Texas. Registration is on Saturday, 8:00
a.m. to 9:30 a.m, with the program kicking off at 9:30 a.m. and ending by Noon Sunday. Participants receive
all retreat supplies and materials, Saturday lunch and dinner. Hotel accommodations are not provided, and
each participant must arrange for their own hotel rooms. Refer to www.wacocvb.com or 1-800-321-9226 for
lodging information.
Designed for Texas Masons, the program is open to all Master Masons and their Ladies. Officers of
Lodges and appendent Masonic bodies are especially encouraged to attend. Make your plans now to join us
for the 2009 Retreat Program and prepare to lead your Masonic organization into the future.
Page 12 • Winter 2009
www.grandlodgeoftexas.orgThe Texas Mason Magazine
2009 MASONIC MERCHANDISE
521DC
Name:________________________________________________________
Address:______________________________________________________
City/State:___________________________________ Zip:_ ______________
Title:____________________________________ District:_ ______________
QTY
ITEM NO.
521DC
521DCC
532DC
532DCEXP
532DCBAR
520DC
524DC
525DC
526DC
522DC
527DC
530DC
528DC
529DC
529DCPM
536DCR
536DCK
533DCW
DESCRIPTION
Lapel Pin with Grand Master’s logo
Charm with Grand Master’s logo, two-sided
Button Hook Tie Chain with Charm
Expandable Tie Chain with Charm
Tie Bar with Grand Master’s logo
Bronze Coin with Grand Master’s logo
Enamel Coin with Grand Master’s logo
Silver Coin with Grand Master’s logo
Large Buckle with Grand Master’s logo
Small Buckle with Grand Master’s logo
Bolo Tie with Grand Master’s logo, blue cord
3” Car Emblem with Grand Master’s logo
Logo Decals
Tail Light Decals (pair) – Member
Tail Light Decals (pair) – Past Master
Cap – Red, White and Blue
Cap – Mesh Back, Khaki Crown with Khaki Bill
Shirt – White
Specify: M M M L M XL M XXL M XXXL
COST* TOTAL
$5.00
$5.00
$10.00
$20.00
$15.00
$5.00
$10.00
$40.00
$30.00
$25.00
$15.00
$15.00
$1.00
$5.00
$5.00
$15.00
$15.00
$30.00
533DCB
Shirt – Blue
Specify: M M
$30.00
540DC
542DCSD
542DCSPIN
542DCSC
541DCW
541DCWC
ANGEL
Tie – Red with Grand Master’s logo
Blue Slipper Decal
Blue Slipper Pins
Two-sided Blue Slipper Charms
Widow’s Pin
Two-sided Widow’s Charms
Angel Pin
ML
M XL
M XXL
M XXXL
$30.00
$1.00
$5.00
$5.00
$5.00
$5.00
$10.00
S/H under $50.00 $5.00
S/H over $50.00 $10.00
Total (*sales tax included)
Enclosed (Make Checks payable to Grand Lodge of Texas)
M Visa Card Number_ _______________________ Exp. Date___________
M MC
Name:_ _______________________________________________
Address:_______________________________________________
City/State:________________________________ Zip:___________
Phone:________________________________________________
Signature______________________________________________
532DCEXP
532DCBAR
520DC
524DC
525DC
526DC
522DC
527DC
530DC
528DC
542DCSC
529DC
529DCPM
542DCSPIN
536DCR
541DCW
M Check
542DCSD
536DCK
541DCWC
Mail this entire page to:Grand Lodge of Texas
P.O. Box 446
Waco, TX 76703
Please reproduce this order form and retain the original for your records.
532DC
521DCC
533DCW
540DC
533DCB
Questions? Call 254-753-7395
ANGEL
The First Lady believes that there are angels here on earth, and that they are always with us. She believes that Masons
are guardian angels for children, young people, and the elderly, for the ill and widowed. As a result of that belief, she
has commissioned a Silver “Texas Angel” pin as her project to raise funds for our Masonic Youth groups. You can be a
guardian angel for these young people by buying and wearing the “Texas Angel” pin to show your love and support
for them. All proceeds from the sale of the “Texas Angel” pin will be donated to the Texas Masonic Youth Foundation
which supports our Rainbow and DeMolay youths. Be an angel and order one today!
This is TEXAS!!!
Announcing the “This is Texas” photography contest, hosted by the
Texas History Committee of the Grand Lodge of Texas. Get out that new
digital camera that you got for Christmas, or dust off your 35mm - it’s
time to take some photos of TEXAS as you see it. Images of TEXAS
mean something different to all of us; to me, it’s the piney woods of
East Texas where the trees are so close together you have to study
it for 30 minutes to figure out how you are going to get through - and
also, the coastal plains down around Raisin, Texas, where my family has
maintained a ranch since 1853.
But, the Texas History Committee wants to know... How does Texas
look to you? We invite you to send us your favorite photos of Texas winners will be chosen by a panel of judges, and winners and “honorable
mention” photos will be posted in the Texas History Section of the
Grand Lodge website, along with information on each Texas Masonic
photographer.
Here’s how to enter:
1. Photos should reflect the theme “This is be Texas” - they may
include scenery, buildings, people or wildlife... or any combination.
Pictures that relate to the Masonic Fraternity are encouraged, but Masonic
reference is not necessary, and carries no weight in the judging.
2. Photos may have been taken anytime during the past 3 years,
and should be in electronic .jpg format, and no larger than 2MB in file
size. PLEASE DO NOT SEND PRINTS - we do not have the resources
Photo by W:. Don Comedy, Grand Photographer to scan them for you. Images must meet a mininum technical criteria
of focus, UNLESS out of focus portions are used as a component of
(2009), The Grand Lodge of Texas
the photo or in an artistic manner - a blurred car to show movement, or
background out of focus to highlight the in-focus subject, for example). Photographic talent also includes “Photoshop”
processes (what we used to call “darkroom skills”) so of course, you may electronically alter your photos.
Send your photos to: ke5r@tx.rr.com Be sure to put “Texas Photo Contest” in the subject line. You may enter up to
THREE photos. Send only one photo per email, and be sure to give a complete description of the photo, where and when
it was taken, the camera used, and the photographer’s name and lodge. Detailed stories to accompany each photo are
ENCOURAGED.
The cut-off date is 1 Sept. 09 - all photos must be in by that time. Judges for this contest include W:. Don Comedy
(Grand Photographer); Bro. Jerry Smith (Past Grand Photographer); Bro. J. Darrell Kirkley (professional videographer
and photographer); Bro. Loyd Addy (Webmaster) of the Texas History Committee, and Bro. Dick Brown (Chairman) of
the Texas History Committee. Questions or comments? Please contact ke5r@tx.rr.com - or start working on your entry
photo!
The Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F. & A.M.
P.O. Box 446
Waco, Texas 76703
NONPROFIT ORG
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
WACO, TX
PERMIT NO. 903