Davey L. White, Jr. Grand Master of WI 2011-2012

I imagine there are plenty of Brothers out there, who like me, enjoyed our early spring and are not enjoying the cool weather we have been receiving lately. I’m sure it won’t be here too much longer, but I’m getting impatient.

The last month has been a busy one, starting out with the joint Table Lodge with our Prince Hall Brothers. It was a truly enjoyable evening for everyone involved. I would [...] . . . → Read More: Grand Master White’s May Address to the Craft.]]> Brethren,

Davey L. White, Jr. Grand Master of WI 2011-2012

I imagine there are plenty of Brothers out there, who like me, enjoyed our early spring and are not enjoying the cool weather we have been receiving lately. I’m sure it won’t be here too much longer, but I’m getting impatient.

The last month has been a busy one, starting out with the joint Table Lodge with our Prince Hall Brothers. It was a truly enjoyable evening for everyone involved. I would like to thank Grand Master Earl Thomas and his Officers for their hospitality and making this event something special for all involved. I know that I will cherish the memories from the evening for the rest of my life.

My wife and I along with MWPGM Joe Harker and his Lady Mary traveled together to Port Washington for their seafood buffet. I must say that the trip was worth every mile. Brother David Tainter prepared a variety of different delicacies. Even as finicky as I am, I left stuffed. There was something for everyone. When you are planning your year as a Master, make sure you plan a trip to Port Washington for one of their wonderful meals. They have several events planned every year, so take advantage of one of them and treat yourself.

My wife and I along with MWPGM and Grand Secretary Mike DeWolf had the opportunity to travel to the Grand Lodge annual communication of New Jersey in early April. The event was held at Ballys Casino on the Board Walk. It was a very informative session. The Brothers out East are well grounded in Masonic Principles. They showed us a great time and the occasion was enjoyed by all.

My wife and I also traveled to Milton Lodge to visit and enjoy their annual Good Friday fish fry. There is definitely a reason why my clothes seem to be shrinking. The food was delicious. The kindness shown to me and my wife Tammi was greatly appreciated and won’t be forgotten. Thanks for an excellent meal. I also appreciate the gifts presented to my wife and I. The belt buckle will be displayed often.

Tammi and I traveled to Brooklyn Park Minnesota to attend their Grand Lodge Annual Communication; unfortunately we had to leave early as I was notified of the death of my Uncle Dale White who suffered an unfortunate accident. RWJGW Bill Beetcher was also attending and represented the Grand Jurisdiction of Wisconsin. My thanks to Bill and his wife Pat for their assistance and friendship during this time of distress.

As I close off for the month, I would like to in advance thank everyone attending my testimonial dinner in Potosi on April 28. I hope you all enjoy the beautiful scenery of southwestern Wisconsin and more importantly my home town of 711 people.

Fraternally,

Davey L. White Jr.

Grand Master

As I write this article, the Grand Lodge staff and officers are busy preparing for the upcoming Annual Communication in June. While it may seem a little early, we all know how fast the time flies by. The Lodges should also be preparing and planning for this event, as the Worshipful Masters and Wardens comprise the voting body of the Grand Lodge. We hope to have a little different approach to the Annual Communication this year. We will of course [...] . . . → Read More: Grand Master White’s April Address to the Craft]]> Brethren,

As I write this article, the Grand Lodge staff and officers are busy preparing for the upcoming Annual Communication in June. While it may seem a little early, we all know how fast the time flies by. The Lodges should also be preparing and planning for this event, as the Worshipful Masters and Wardens comprise the voting body of the Grand Lodge. We hope to have a little different approach to the Annual Communication this year. We will of course have the traditional introductions of our Past Grand Masters and visiting Dignitaries, but along with the usual business we are going to mix in Masonic education and some guest speakers to make it more enlightening for all who attend.

Davey L. White, Jr. Grand Master of WI 2011-2012

Speaking of the Annual Communication, there has been some concern on the proper protocol on the new concealed carry laws and how we are preparing to deal with it. As you recall I sent a letter out earlier in the year concerning this subject stating there should be no guns in the Lodge room unless it is for your profession and you are required to carry it at all times. I believe the same rules apply for the Annual Communication. If you feel the need to bring your gun with you, I would suggest you lock it up in your case and leave it in your vehicle. I have heard of reports that people are “carrying” at Masonic Memorial Services. This is upsetting a lot of members. I would suggest that anytime you will be wearing an apron that you secure your fire arm and leave it in your vehicle or at home. Please don’t get me wrong I am a firm believer in the 2^nd amendment and am an avid hunter. No one enjoys fire arms any more than I, but there is a proper time and place. Please use common sense when attending Masonic events. Thank You.

The end of February your Executive team traveled to Atlanta Georgia to attend the North American Conference of Grand Masters and Grand Secretaries. It was an enjoyable trip and we came away from the conference with many new friends and some new ideas and programs to promote Masonry in Wisconsin. These types of conferences are necessary to foster the friendships and connections necessary to be prepared for the future and keep our jurisdiction moving forward as a leader not a follower.

I have had the pleasure to attend several Schools of Instructions recently. I am excited about the number of Brothers attending the Schools. There are a lot of our younger members who are eager to learn not only the words, but the history and meanings behind what we teach in our ritual. As you all know I made it a priority this year to start to restore the interest and integrity of our schools. I would like to thank our Grand Lecturer Ken Gorgen for being instrumental in preparing our three year plan for our schools. Bro. Ken and his Esoteric Committee have done a fine job this year. I believe Brother Ernie Hiegel would be proud of your efforts.

This past weekend I had the pleasure to attend a couple of District meetings. It is always a pleasure to get out and meet new Brothers from around the State. Your Grand Lodge Officers are doing an excellent job of speaking at these meetings. They have prepared some very informative and thought provoking material for you to enjoy. If you haven’t had the opportunity to attend a District Meeting, I would encourage you to contact your District Deputy to find out when your meeting will be held. Remember we are only your representatives and we are trying to give back to the Fraternity, for the blessings you have allowed us to enjoy.

I also had the pleasure to confer a Master Mason Degree on a fine young man and now Brother of Omro Lodge. I believe it is the first Master Mason degree they have conferred in almost 15 years. It truly was an honor for me and something I will hold dear for the rest of my life.

Masonry my Brothers is in good hands and I am positive that we will eventually have an increase in membership. As I have said all year, if we concentrate on bringing quality individuals into our Fraternity and not just worry about numbers, we will take care of growing Masonry in the State of Wisconsin.

In Brotherly Love,

Davey L. White Jr.

Grand Master

I again would like to thank our Great Creator for blessing us with such wonderful weather this winter. I cannot remember in my 48 plus years ever having a winter as warm as this. While some people may enjoy the beautiful snowfalls that our Wisconsin winters normally bring (which I also do), I am thankful for traveling purposes that it has been a mild winter so far.

During the past month I have continued battling a nasty virus, but I am [...] . . . → Read More: Grand Master White’s March Address to the Craft]]> Brethren,

I again would like to thank our Great Creator for blessing us with such wonderful weather this winter. I cannot remember in my 48 plus years ever having a winter as warm as this. While some people may enjoy the beautiful snowfalls that our Wisconsin winters normally bring (which I also do), I am thankful for traveling purposes that it has been a mild winter so far.

During the past month I have continued battling a nasty virus, but I am feeling much better. I would like to thank those Lodges and Brothers who sent cards and emails wishing me well and a speedy recovery. It truly exemplifies the true meaning of Masonry, caring for our Brothers, families, friends, neighbors and communities as a whole. I know personally that just knowing that someone cares enough to send a card or email makes me feel much better and motivates me to feeling better. Again, thank you.

During the past month I had the pleasure to travel to Lake Geneva and install Geneva Lodge. It was my last installation for the year and a very special one. I had the pleasure to install one of my best Masonic friends, Brother Richard Vande Sande, a past Grand Treasurer and permanent member of Grand Lodge, as Master. What made this day even more enjoyable was the fact that there were three Past Grand Masters in attendance. Past Grand Master Joe B. Harker was the installing Grand Marshal, Past Grand Master John W. Wilke was the Installing Grand Chaplain and Past Grand Master Rod Paulson and his lady were also in attendance. It shows how Brotherly Love truly unites men and ladies. It forms a bond of friendship that will last a lifetime. Even after a long weekend at our staff meeting in Wisconsin Rapids, we thought nothing of traveling another three plus hours to the other side of the state to be with friends and Brothers during a special moment in a Brother’s life. Congratulations Richard and good luck with your year.

I also had the pleasure to attend Four Lakes Daylight Lodge. It was the first time I had the pleasure to attend a daylight lodge. I had a great time and met many new Brothers in the process. I brought along three other Grand Lodge Officers, the Grand Chaplain, the Grand Marshal and the Grand Tiler. We all had a wonderful time and enjoyed a nice educational presentation. This my Brothers is what we all need to establish in our lodge programming. The more we educate our Brothers, the stronger our Fraternity becomes.

I along with my wife Tammi and MWPGM Mike DeWolf recently traveled to Arizona to spend time with our Brothers who reside or winter in the state. We had a wonderful time and enjoyed the great weather. Special Thanks to Brother Paul Handa who coordinated the event. I would also like to thank PGM Jim Olson and his Lady Judy for serving as hosts and serving as the MC of the event. It truly is an honor meeting members of the Fraternity who have served faithfully for years and continue to do so. They have a wealth of information and knowledge to impart to all of us, so please lend them an ear and I am sure regardless of your Masonic knowledge, you will learn something new. Our Director of Development Bill Barnes also traveled to Phoenix to meet with people who have supported our Charities over the years and to develop new friendships and pay our respects to our widows who reside there. Thank you all for the wonderful experience, I know I came away from there with some wonderful memories.

I would like to thank all those who contributed to the Grand Masters appeal this year, as most of you know the Masonic Journal is near and dear to my heart. I have traveled to Florida and Arizona and I am constantly thanked for restoring OUR Masonic Journal to a quality publication. This my brothers does cost a little more, but I believe OUR Brothers are worth it. I still continue to visit shut in Brothers and those who reside in care facilities, many of them are quite elderly. Their connection to Masonry in the State of Wisconsin is OUR Masonic Journal. I think they deserve it. They have laid a foundation for us to build on. They provided for us and I believe we need to show them a measure of gratitude for their commitment to FREEMASONRY. If you haven’t already donated to the Masonic Journal appeal, it’s not too late. Our goal is to make this a self-sustaining fund and continue to provide for those who have provided for us.

I have one thing that I would like to mention in this month’s article. I have noticed and been informed through the several reports that I received, that people are relying on their cipher books more and more just to open Lodge. When I read transcripts and letters of Brothers who were raised years ago, they always speak of the quality of the degree work they received and how it influenced their lives as Masons. We must remember that when a new Brother takes his degrees, this is his first impression of Masonry. Don’t we owe it to him to give him the same quality of degrees that our Brothers provided for us? If a lodge wants to be successful, it has to have commitments from its members. This my Brothers, needs to start with our ritual. Take pride in what you do and how you do it. It will reflect positively on you as an individual and also on your lodge as a whole.

Fraternally,

Davey L. White Jr

Grand Master

As I write this article, it is evident that winter in Wisconsin has arrived. The snow and ice are upon us once again. While it is beautiful in its own way, it offers a lot of concerns for our Brothers as they travel around our state practicing our Masonic Principles. Please take every precaution when out and about traveling to other lodges and state functions. Your health and safety are our main concerns.

I hope everyone has been enjoying a wonderful [...] . . . → Read More: Grand Master White’s February Address to the Craft]]> Brethren,

As I write this article, it is evident that winter in Wisconsin has arrived. The snow and ice are upon us once again. While it is beautiful in its own way, it offers a lot of concerns for our Brothers as they travel around our state practicing our Masonic Principles. Please take every precaution when out and about traveling to other lodges and state functions. Your health and safety are our main concerns.

I hope everyone has been enjoying a wonderful start to a Happy New Year. I feel the excitement in the air everywhere I travel. We have a great deal of enthusiastic young Masons who are full of great ideas. They, along with the seasoned veterans of the Lodges are working together to make Masonry more visible in our local communities. We cannot underestimate those important principles that our Masonic Ritual teaches us, how it unites the young and old alike. It forms a bond of friendship and brotherhood that I feel is as strong and meaningful as any I’ve come across. I commend the Lodges who have united together for one common goal, making good men better and improving their communities.

Your Grand Lodge officers and myself have started the year the same way we ended 2011, installing officers. The great thing about installing officers is we get to meet some prospective future leaders of our Fraternity. I know that as I travel I write down names and take business cards from various Brothers in hope that they may become Area Administrators and work their way up through the various Grand Lodge offices. Never underestimate what a little old fashioned hard work will do for you in this Fraternity. Believe me, we take notice and have put together a list of people to watch in the coming years. We also look for people who specialize in certain areas to serve on Grand Lodge committees, whether it would be finance, human resources, architecture, business or in other capacities. The Craft is continually evolving, while we do rely on a lot of Past Grand Masters for their wisdom and knowledge, we also know that we have to prepare our Fraternity for the future. We thank all of you for your willingness to serve and move this Fraternity forward.

I, along with my wife Tammi, Past Grand Master Michael DeWolf, and our director of development have just recently returned from our trip to Florida to visit our Brothers who reside there. We had the opportunity to honor several fifty year Brothers and present several Brothers with our new sixty year pins that we just started this year. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet our Brothers and their Ladies and to give them an update on our technology improvements and the projects we have put into place so far this year. I explained that a lot of what we have accomplished this year was actually started last year with Past Grand Master Joe Harker and the progressive line officers. The idea is to work together and work towards our goals together. No more implementing a new state of the art idea every year, just working together and picking up where the previous Grand Master left off. I believe it is paying dividends and we will accomplish a lot more as your elected and appointed officers. Special thanks to Past Grand Master Carl Wussow and Bro. Billy Brown for setting up these events in Florida.

We have just completed the first state wide secretaries training session in Madison. I must apologize for missing this wonderful event, but I had pneumonia and didn’t want to infect anyone else. From all reports the training was a great success. The members who I have talked to said it was very informative and worth the time and cost to attend. I believe there were over 100 Lodges represented and close to 150 Brothers in attendance. Due to its success we are planning to make this an annual event. The details will be put together at our staff meeting and sent out to you in advance. Special thanks to our Most Worshipful Past Grand Master and current Grand Secretary Mike DeWolf and the Grand Lodge office staff for all their hard work putting this all together. More importantly we would like to thank the Lodges and the Brothers for attending and making this a huge success.

Many of you may have already received a Masonic Birthday Card in the mail. This is also a new program that has just started recently. We felt that we should give something back to our Brothers who support our great Fraternity here in Wisconsin. I would personally like to thank the Wisconsin Masonic Foundation Board members for supporting this program and also the development office staff for all of their work and assistance in making this program a reality.

With Brotherly Love,

Davey L. White Jr.

Grand Master

As the month of January approaches, I think that we should feel very fortunate for the great weather that our “supreme architect of the universe” has provided for us so far this year (no offense snowmobilers). It has made travel throughout the state a lot more enjoyable.

Davey L. White, Jr.

The month of December has been a particularly rewarding experience for me, as I have had the opportunity to travel to several Lodges that I have not been privileged to [...] . . . → Read More: Grand Master White’s January Address to the Craft]]> Brethren,

As the month of January approaches, I think that we should feel very fortunate for the great weather that our “supreme architect of the universe” has provided for us so far this year (no offense snowmobilers). It has made travel throughout the state a lot more enjoyable.

Davey L. White, Jr.

The month of December has been a particularly rewarding experience for me, as I have had the opportunity to travel to several Lodges that I have not been privileged to visit before. This also means that I had the pleasure to meet Brothers and Ladies that I never had the opportunity to meet before. I cannot explain the joy that I feel inside every time I get the chance to share a conversation or just to spend time with Masons and their ladies throughout the State of Wisconsin and other Jurisdictions. The friendships that we develop will last a lifetime. Again I must say that Masonry unites men and Ladies from every walk of life. I hope that everyone reflects on the blessings of friendship and the people they have met through this great fraternity of ours.

This leads me to one of the greatest rewards of being your Grand Master. On December 22, our Most Worshipful Past Grand Master Michael A. DeWolf, our Masonic Journal Editor Rich Rygh and myself had the opportunity to travel to Plymouth and present a plaque to a distinguished Brother Mason for his long and dedicated service to the Fraternity. Brother Donald Krauss celebrated his 103^rd birthday on November 11, 2011 and celebrated 79 years in our Masonic Fraternity on December 19, 2011. He has a long list of accomplishments to his resume. I know I enjoyed the stories he shared with us and he even played a few tunes on the organ for us before he had to leave for his next engagement for the day. He and his Lady were a joy to spend time with. Thank you for taking time out of your schedule to spend some time and share some history with us.

My wife Tammi and I had the pleasure to travel to Unity Lodge in Kenosha on December 3 to attend a benefit for one of my Officers, WB District Deputy Wayne Budwick who has recently lost his wife after a long battle with cancer. Bro. Wayne also suffered a heart attack just after her passing.  The members of Unity Lodge and the surrounding area are to be commended on rising up and practicing the tenant of relief for a Worthy Brother. Their compassion and willingness to help out when needed should be an inspiration and lesson for all of us. If we all practiced this simple act of kindness in our communities, people would take notice of what Masonry has to offer.

The Month of December started out with a trip to the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center in Milwaukee. My thanks to our MSA representative Charles “Chuck” Wallens for his hard work and for putting together a wonderful tour and dinner for my wife Tammi and I. The new addition to the hospital will be opening soon and it is a state of the art facility. Whenever I visit the VA hospital it reminds me more and more of the sacrifices that our military personnel have made for not only our country, but for each and every one of us. They have provided a way of life for us that we should be truly thankful for. My hat is off to all of you.

The Grand Lodge Officers have been very busy attending installations of officers throughout the state. We thank you for inviting us to your Lodges. I personally have installed 24 Lodges this month so far and have attended several others. The enthusiasm of the officers and Brothers is truly wonderful. I believe that Masonry is heading in the right direction. I would like to thank the lodges for their courtesies and understanding while trying to schedule all of these events. I know that with my work schedule and all the overtime it wasn’t easy.

When we look ahead to next year, I would like to offer this thought. In the words of Andrew Y. McDonald “The customer is the boss”. We have a great deal to offer to our communities, friends, neighbors, and families. We all know what the principles of Masonry are and the great moral lessons that we relay. Let’s all go that extra step this year and make our world an even better place.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!

Fraternally,

Davey L. White Jr.

Twas the Night before Christmas,

And down at the lodge Not a gavel was stirring,

And in the hodge podge of aprons and jewels

And chairs East and West You could savour the silence,

Most gladly divest all metal and mineral,

It mattered not, Since Christmas was nigh

And the coals were still hot

In the hearth of your home place, all Masons abed,

As visions of trestleboards Danced in their head;

When up on the roof there arose such a clatter

Our Tyler jumped up to see what [...] . . . → Read More: A Masonic ‘Night Before Christmas’]]>

Twas the Night before Christmas,

And down at the lodge Not a gavel was stirring,

And in the hodge podge of aprons and jewels

And chairs East and West You could savour the silence,

Most gladly divest all metal and mineral,

It mattered not, Since Christmas was nigh

And the coals were still hot

In the hearth of your home place, all Masons abed,

As visions of trestleboards Danced in their head;

When up on the roof there arose such a clatter

Our Tyler jumped up to see what was the matter!

He picked up his sword and ran fast to the door,

Three knocks shook the panels – he wondered “What for?”

He answered the knocking with raps of his own,

And once the door opened he saw, with a moan

Of delight, it was Santa, all jolly and red

Except for one notable feature instead!

Upon his large finger he wore what we knew

Was compass and square on a background of blue!

“Why Santa!” he shouted and lowered his blade,

“I see you’re a Mason!” the Tyler relayed.

He looked toward the Master’s most dignified chair

And said, voice near trembling, “Most Worshipful there

Is a Gentleman properly clothed at the gate!”

The Master replied, “Let’s allow him – but wait!

You tell me a Gentleman, but I don’t see

His apron beneath that red suit.  Can it be

Our visitor hasn’t been properly raised?

Must we offer a test that is suitably phrased?”

“I do beg your pardon,” ol’ Santa said quick

As he pulled up his coat and displayed not a stick

But a cane with engraving, two balls did appear

And oh, what an apron, he wore and held dear!

Adorned like the Master’s, complete with a sign

Of “Lodge Number One, the North Pole” on one line!

“Now let this man enter,” the Master declared,

And once in the Lodge room, the Brethren all stared,

For Santa was wearing a jewel not seen

For many a century – there in between

The fur of his coat and the splendid red collar

Gleamed two golden reindeer that shone line a dollar!

“It’s Donner and Blitzen, who I must confess

Are actually images brought from the West

By my Warden, a craftsman like none in the world!”

And with a great laugh from his bag he unfurled

An ear of fine corn, and some oil from the East,

“My friend I have plenty.  Tonight we will feast

On all that is good!  We are Masons, kind sir!”

A murmur went throughout the Lodge, quite a stir,

As presents and promises flew from his sack!

This Santa, a Mason, showed he had a knack

For making this Christmas the best you could glean,

And soon even Deacons were laughing.  They’d seen

On this very night only happiness reigned!

This jolly Saint Nicholas quickly explained

That only a Mason could be so inclined

To make all kids happy, make all people find

A Christmas so special.  Yes, Santa was right!

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

Author:           Clayton L. Wright

As December approaches and we prepare for Mother Nature to bring us another winter in Wisconsin, it reminds us that it is the time of year for election of officers in our local Lodges. A time for the young men of our Fraternity to move forward and continue their education and journey in Masonry, while the Past Masters and veteran members of the Lodges continue spreading their wisdom to those that wish to learn. It truly is an exciting time [...] . . . → Read More: Grand Master Whites December Address to the Craft]]> Brethren,

As December approaches and we prepare for Mother Nature to bring us another winter in Wisconsin, it reminds us that it is the time of year for election of officers in our local Lodges. A time for the young men of our Fraternity to move forward and continue their education and journey in Masonry, while the Past Masters and veteran members of the Lodges continue spreading their wisdom to those that wish to learn. It truly is an exciting time of the year for all Masons in the State. For all the outgoing Masters we thank you for your service and for providing your leadership to your respective Lodges. To the newly elected and soon to be installed Masters we thank you for your willingness to lead your respective Lodges next year. We look forward to working with you and helping to make all of your experiences be hopefully positive.

Your Grand Lodge Officers will be busy traveling the State helping the Lodges with their installations of officers. It is one of the busiest times of the year and we appreciate all the invitations that we receive. It is one of the greatest honors we have as your representatives. It’s a time to renew old friendships and a time to form new acquaintances and friendships. The true meaning of Brotherly Love shines brightly at this time of the year. We can never take for granted the number of people we would never have had the opportunity to share our lives with if it wasn’t for this great Fraternity. We truly do meet men and ladies from every country, sect, and opinion. I know personally that I have been blessed with some great friendships that mean the world to me. Many people have touched my life over the course of my Masonic life and have helped me become the man I am today. As our Most Worshipful Past Grand Master Roger L. Magoon reminded us on his lapel pin. Masonry is “A WAY OF LIFE”.

As the new Masters and Wardens take office I would like to remind them to become familiar with the Masonic Code of Wisconsin. It is important that you have an understanding of the laws and regulations of our State. Please take the Charges of your offices very seriously, as you are held accountable for your actions and decisions. Never forget the obligations you took in Lodge. Working together we can accomplish a great deal and move this Fraternity forward. One of the main goals of every Master or Grand Master should be to leave the state of the craft in a better position than they received it. This is why our Most Worshipful Past Grand Master Joseph B. Harker stressed to all his officers that we are a team and we will work together to accomplish our goals. I believe this method of leadership is working and paying dividends for our State.

Most of you have probably received the mailing concerning the Grand Masters appeal for this year. I wish to thank all who have contributed so far and hope that many more will find it in their hearts to support this great cause. Some of you may perhaps think it strange that I would choose the Masonic Journal for my appeal. Please let me explain. Believe me I realize that we are in a technological age and many of you would rather view the Journal on line. I have no problem with that. The thing we must remember is that the average age of Masons in the State of Wisconsin is 65 years old. Not that I consider that old in years, but it does mean that we have elderly members. Some of them are shut in or in Care facilities. We have an OBLIGATION to provide for and take care of our Brothers who may be at this time less fortunate than ourselves. I know for years I have been visiting Brothers in our local care facilities. The Masonic Journal is their link to the Fraternity; it lets them know what’s happening throughout the State. I think they have earned our respect and deserve to be included in our thoughts and plans for the future. The Masonic Journal helps to accomplish this goal. Others like myself would rather have a written publication that I can look at and carry with me. The less time spent on a computer the happier my life is. Again thank you for your support of our great publication. If you happen to see a member of the Journal Board, Thank them for their hard work. I would again like to express my personal thanks to our Editor Rich Rygh, who does a phenomenal job.

For those of who celebrate the Christmas season, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and to all a Happy New Year. May God bless you all.

Fraternally,

Davey L. White Jr.

As we look at the beautiful scenes the supreme architect of the universe has provided for us in the month of October, we must feel an overwhelming sense of joy and gratitude for the opportunity to enjoy his creations. The colors of the trees and watching the animals scurry around preparing for the upcoming winter is my favorite time of year.

This is also the busy part of our constituent lodges’ years as the current Masters are busy trying to finish [...] . . . → Read More: Grand Master White’s November Address to the Craft]]> Brethren,

As we look at the beautiful scenes the supreme architect of the universe has provided for us in the month of October, we must feel an overwhelming sense of joy and gratitude for the opportunity to enjoy his creations. The colors of the trees and watching the animals scurry around preparing for the upcoming winter is my favorite time of year.

This is also the busy part of our constituent lodges’ years as the current Masters are busy trying to finish implementing their programs, while at the same time preparing the lodges for the upcoming elections and the installation of a new Master for the upcoming Masonic year.

This is also a very busy time for your elected and appointed Grand Lodge officers as they are busy  trying to relay information to the lodges at our district meetings. I hope every lodge takes the opportunity to attend their respective district meeting, so they have the opportunity to hear the plans that are laid out on our trestleboards for the upcoming year. This is the place where you can voice your opinion and ask any pertinent questions you may have for the officers.

The Grand Lodge officers have just completed their first staff meeting in Wisconsin Rapids at the beginning of October. We as an Executive staff get to hear reports from all the District Deputies. They voice their concerns and make recommendations on what they think is the best course of action to help individual lodges in their districts. I am pleased to let you know that Masonry seems to be moving along quite well and in the right direction for the most part. I was a little bit alarmed on the number of lodges reported having internal arguments amongst themselves. We all need to pay attention to the simple lessons taught in the openings and closing of our lodges.  Peace and Harmony should prevail in all instances. The Charges that we receive at the conclusion of each degree and at our installations are full of lessons that we should utilize in our daily lives as well as when in lodge. Working together and implementing these lessons we can make a big difference in our communities, lodges and lives. When approaching subjects using Masonic principles and utilizing our teachings, there is no room for arguments and unrest in the lodge.

On a personal note, I have been busy not only as the Grand Master but also at work. We have been on overtime for the past several months and working third shift it makes for some very sleepless days and nights. I have had the pleasure to once again visit one of our veterans hospitals in Tomah. It is a very rewarding experience and I encourage everyone to take the time to visit and volunteer their time for those who have provided a great deal for us.

I am sure most of you have read about the ESGR (Employers supporting the Guards and Reserve) project we have initiated. I ask that all Masons take part in this worthwhile cause and show our military personnel how much we appreciate their efforts defending our great country and the principles we hold dear.

Fraternally,

Davey L. White Jr.

What two things do we not talk about in our Masonic Lodges? The answer is Religion and Politics. However, United States Freemasons helped form and maintain this great country of ours and have always answered the call to arms.

An F-16 fighter jet flies just off the wing of the KC-135 after refueling. Several F-16s were refueled while the KC-135 was en route to the air station at the Base at Norfolk, Virginia.

Recently I got a call from Brother Bob [...] . . . → Read More: Masons are Patriots by Dennis V. Siewert, R.W. Deputy Grand Master]]>  

What two things do we not talk about in our Masonic Lodges? The answer is Religion and Politics. However, United States Freemasons helped form and maintain this great country of ours and have always answered the call to arms.

An F-16 fighter jet flies just off the wing of the KC-135 after refueling. Several F-16s were refueled while the KC-135 was en route to the air station at the Base at Norfolk, Virginia.

Recently I got a call from Brother Bob Roth, a retired Army Colonel, who serves us on a number Grand Lodge Committees. He asked me if I would like to represent my company and the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin on a Defense Department sponsored “Bosslift” to Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia. It was an opportunity to learn about the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense (DOD) activity that supports employers who have or may have employees who serve in the National Guard or the Reserve Components of the various military services. Brother Roth said it would be a memorable trip and experiencing these citizen warriors at work supporting our national defense.

An F-16 is refueled through a boom in mid-air by a KC-135. The F-16 is about 35 feet from the refueling plane. The KC-135 flies at 530 miles per hour at 30,000 feet and can take off with a gross weight of up to 322,500 lbs. Several planes were refueled enroute from Milwaukee to Norfolk, Virginia.

I said yes, and the next thing I knew I was getting my background checked, my security clearances done, and was packing a bag and heading for the military side of Mitchell Field in Milwaukee. I reported to the headquarters of the 128th USAF (Air National Guard) Refueling Wing for our security briefings.  We flew out on Monday July 18, 2011 and were back on the ground in Milwaukee in the late afternoon of Wednesday, July 20th. Aboard two KC-135 tanker jets were seventy three (73) employers from around the state joined by fifteen (15) ESGR volunteers, one Navy Rear Admiral, and two Brigadier Generals from the Wisconsin National Guard. While on the way to the air station at the Base at Norfolk Virginia, the tanker refueled F16 Fighters.

It was a special flight, and I got to see the mid-air refueling done through a boom actually flown by the boom operator at the back of the tanker, with the fighter jet about 35 feet away and all of us flying at hundreds of miles an hour. It was air ballet of a different sort. Note that the FAA considers any two planes within a mile of one another as a “near miss.” That wouldn’t work so well in this case.

The ESGR representatives filled us in about the work they are doing in Wisconsin and elsewhere.  We learned that they are a group of volunteers with a few full time support persons doing the day to day coordination on project ranging from these bosslifts to working directly with employers to help find work for returning veterans and serving Reserve Component members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard. Yes, it’s really is a Department of Defense Activity, and there are about 4500 of these volunteers at work nationwide. The committee in Wisconsin is very busy right now, with the recent return of the 32nd Combat Brigade of the Army National Guard returning from Iraq. We learned, not without some surprise and discomfort that upwards of 30% of that force of more than 5000 solders came home without a job waiting for them. Yes, a few were students, but that just seemed wholly out of proportion to what we should expect for these men and women.

Deputy Grand Master Dennis V. Siewert aboard the KC-135.

So part of the reason for this article is to let all Masons in Wisconsin know that if they have an opportunity to hire someone, that they should give thought to hiring a veteran or a serving member of the Reserve Component. I’ll detail some contact information for you at the bottom of this article that will point the way for you. It would be a way for us to do our part to support that one percent of the population that is currently shouldering the entire defense of this nation for the benefit of the other ninety-nine percent of us.

Cockpit of the KC-135 tanker jet.

We arrived Monday afternoon at the Naval Station Norfolk, the largest Navy installation in the world, with about 145,000 personnel assigned to the base.  We checked into the Navy Hotel, followed by dinner and orientation. The Reserve Component forces are about fifty percent of the total fighting force and fully engaged in the fight. Some of those F16s we fueled could be headed to Southwest Asia. Much of what we observed was training of personnel in preparation for future deployments. You couldn’t tell the difference between the reservists and the actives, and the level of morale, professionalism and complete commitment to protection of our way of life was on display.

The next day, Tuesday, we were kept busy visiting naval vessels. We boarded and toured the U.S.S. Mahan (DDG72), a Destroyer just back from deployment. We then toured the new, about to go on its maiden voyage, USS New York, LPD 21.  On the bridge, the Captain gave an interesting talk about his ship. Its hull and other parts of the ship are made from steel from the twin towers, salvaged after 9/11!  The City of New York has “adopted” the ship, and there is memorabilia and gifts on display from the city and 9/11. This special craft designed to carry Marines, their personal gear and all of their equipment into combat.

After lunch, we visited the Riverine Forces, and saw many different aspects of the close in Navy operations, to include the small vessels that do pirate and drug interdiction, IED bomb removal units, the Civil Affairs Units and Construction Engineers (the Seabees). The Reserve officers and sailors on site went out of their way to explain how they do the work for us in the Navy and also work with their civilian employers.

The Battleship Wisconsin at the maritime museum in Norfolk, VA. The reason the ship is not in Wisconsin is because it is unable to pass through the St. Lawrence Seaway, as the Eisenhower Lock is two inches too small.

We then boarded buses and went to downtown Norfolk, VA, to visit their wonderful maritime museum featuring the Battleship Wisconsin, BB-64.  We had an excellent docent (guided) tour throughout the ship. We were told the reason its not in Wisconsin is that the ship can’t pass through the St. Lawrence Seaway, as the Eisenhower Lock is two inches too small. We also learned that the U.S.S. Wisconsin was able to make it through the Panama Canal as the locks are four inches wider than the beam of the ship.

Wednesday morning we visited the Air Wing at the Naval Station and got a close look at the reconnaissance planes that are assigned to aircraft carriers, as well as the latest version of the Navy’s “Blackhawk” helicopters. It was an eye opener as well, and again, we were briefed well and treated better.

In what seemed like just a short while, we were back at the air base, loading the refueling jets, up in the air, and once again refueling. This time we got to see the Air Force’s premier ground support aircraft, the A-10 “Warthog” get topped up. The Army veteran’s on board really extolled the virtue of that plane. It’s been in the system for a while, but for those on the ground, fighting the ground war, it just keeps on giving and giving.

At dinner, Tuesday evening, I signed a “Statement of Support” for the members of the Reserve and National Guard on behalf of my business in Green Bay. I have spoken with our Grand Master, Davey White Jr., about my experiences. It is at his urging that I make this report to you my Brothers.

Deputy Grand Master Dennis V. Siewert, Bro. Robert Roth and Bro. David Alderfer stand in front of a Black Hawk Helicopter at the Naval Air Station in Norfolk, Virginia.

We believe that signing the “Statement of Support” is a wonderful way for Masons to show our Patriotism and Support for Our Troops. The Grand Master will be sending each Lodge in the state a letter urging lodges to sign a “Statement of Support”. Brother Bob Roth and the ESGR volunteers will coordinate these efforts. It will have a positive impact on the morale of the service members in Wisconsin and it does get mentioned in what our volunteers call, “Pentagon Circles,” which at the end of the day helps them get the few dollars they get from Uncle Sam to support their projects. Each Lodge will receive a framed “Statement of Support” to be displayed. Your Grand Lodge Executive Committee under the direction of the Grand Master is positive that by Lodges showing their support for our Troops, we will make Wisconsin Free Masons the first fraternal group to do so.

I urge each Lodge to use the News Hawk reimbursement plan to publicize your support in your area for this project. I also believe  that returning military men will seek out Masonic Lodges for membership because of our support for them.

If you want to see what the ESGR is all about, check out their website at www.esgr.org. If there’s any one of you that might like to learn more about the ESGR or its projects, contact Brother Bob Roth at rroth2@wi.rr.com. Brother Bob will probably have the answer for you as he was the Employer Outreach Director for the ESGR in Wisconsin.

If you ever have a chance to go on a Military sponsored Bosslift, do it. You’ll meet fellow countrymen and women doing the Nation’s business at its best. What a powerful experience to be aboard ship and have military personal walk up to you and shake your hand and say, “Welcome aboard Brother”, it just so happened I was wearing a shirt with the Square & Compasses on it.

I would like to thank our Most Worshipful Grand Master, Davey L. White Jr. for letting me represent the Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of Wisconsin on this trip. It was an experience of a life-time. I learned so much about what military brothers are going through with employment issues following deployments from serving in active duty.

The month of September is drawing to a close and the Lodges are busy planning and implementing programs they have laid out on their trestleboards. You can feel the excitement in the air. There is degree work going on almost everywhere. I believe Freemasonry is alive and moving in the right direction in Wisconsin. We are making great strides not only in the Blue Lodge, but also in our appendant bodies  as well. Our numbers are still declining, but every [...] . . . → Read More: Grand Master White’s October Address to the Craft]]> Brethren,

The month of September is drawing to a close and the Lodges are busy planning and implementing programs they have laid out on their trestleboards. You can feel the excitement in the air. There is degree work going on almost everywhere. I believe Freemasonry is alive and moving in the right direction in Wisconsin. We are making great strides not only in the Blue Lodge, but also in our appendant bodies  as well. Our numbers are still declining, but every year we draw closer to an actual gain. We all need to concentrate on Lodge programing and keeping our Brothers involved and interested. We also need to be much more thorough in checking out and contacting our Brothers who are in arrears with their dues. If we can cut down the resignations and suspensions for nonpayment of dues we will have an increase in membership sooner than expected. Keep up the good work.

I have tried to be at the Grand Lodge office at least once a week to sign dispensations and bylaw changes. I am encouraged with the number of requests for bylaw changes allowing lodges to remain open all year. I know this is repetitious, but I believe it is important. Lodges need to remain open and be active to retain membership. It’s very easy to get out of a routine, when you get a two month break it’s easy to remain home when the Lodge reopens in the fall or spring. If your Lodge hasn’t examined its bylaws for a number of years please do so as soon as possible.

I would like to take the opportunity to thank the Grand Lodge Office Staff. They make the transition of being Grand Master very easy. They are always willing to help and share their years of experience. We are truly fortunate to have the employees we have. Thank You.

I have had a wonderful month traveling to functions. I have just concluded visiting the Veterans hospital in Madison. The volunteers who donate their time are to be congratulated on a job well done. I was astounded by the number of volunteer hours logged during the last year. MWPGM Beecher Daniels and his representatives are working hard to give back as much as possible to those who have served our country in the several branches of our armed forces.  As you know we have increased our monthly donations to our hospital representative by $100.00 a month. If you have any extra time please consider volunteering at one of the hospitals, I’m sure they would appreciate any assistance you could provide.

The Grand Lodge Officers traveled to Wausau to help Forrest Lodge No. 130 celebrate their 150th year as a Lodge. We performed a reconsecration ceremony for them and enjoyed a fabulous meal along with ZOR Potentate Steve Peterson and his lady. The evening was filled with history and memories of years past. To have a Masonic presence in a community for 150 years is a great accomplishment. It takes great leadership and dedication from its members. My personal thanks to MWPGM John W. Wilke for assisting the current Grand Lodge officers in this great endeavor. We all had a great time.

Please continue promoting the tenants of our gentle craft.

Fraternally,

Davey L. White Jr.

M.W. Grand Master