THE STARS OF WASHINGTON
 
Friday, July 28th, 2006
 
Trickle of Paradise
 
There is a place in the garden
Where the goldfish swim.
A pool of water, a haven of plants
Made especially for them.
 
I know I can go there to relax,
Yet I'm never quite alone.
There are always butterflies, busy bees
Or rain frogs singing nature's song.
 
There is a fountain always flowing
To soothe the frazzled mind,
It's just a place to get away
And leave the world behind.
** Tia Merrell, Wynne, Arkansas  (Yes!  Arkansas, Brother Bill!!!)
 
 

 
 
SADNESS ... PGM Mable Linbo

 

   One bit of correction ... I had the date wrong in the last issue of Sister Mable's passing.  Instead of August 21st, it should be July 21st.

        Sister Mable Linbo, Past Grand Matron of the Grand Chapter of Washington, passed away July 21st.   

 
Obit ... Mable Linbo (Age 88)
    Mable was born in Centralia, Washington on February 13, 1918 to William and Laura Baker and passed away on July 21, 2006 in Kent.  She graduated from Centralia High School.  She married Leslie M. Linbo on November 19, 1938 and spent the majority of their lives in Lakewood.  Mable retired from the Rhodes Department Store located in what was known as the Lakewood Villa Plaza; she was also a charter member of the Lakewood United Methodist Church.  Mable was a life member of Lewis Chapter #198 OES and held many offices during those years; Worthy Matron 1954-1955, Grand Representative Montana, Post Grand Chaplain, Post Worthy Grand Matron 1988-89, General Grand Chapter Estarl Committee 2003-2006.  She was preceded in death by her husband Leslie (1984); and is survived by her daughter Mardonna Tyler (Lloyd) and her sons Richard and Gordon (Nora); eight grandchild and eight great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donated may be made to Hospice or the American Cancer Foundation.
-- Spokanesman Review
 
 
PASSING OF PGP IN NEW MEXICO
 
    It is with heartfelt sadness that I inform you of the death of our dearly beloved PGP Charles W. Sonntag yesterday at his home.  Charlie served our grand jurisdiction during the "Extend the Hand of Friendship" Session with PGM Jean Lewis in 2002-03.  He was also a past RGP of the Order of the Amaranth in New Mexico.  He will be sorely missed and was very much loved.  He leaves one daughter and two sons who would appreciate your prayers.
** Rosemary Archibeque, Jr. PGM/NM, Turquoise #71, Rio Rancho/GGC
 
 
PRAYERS NEEDED
 
    I've just read the last several of your newsletters and I didn't see it mentioned so I thought I'd write to let you know...
    M. Elizabeth Haerlen, long-time star member of most Chapters in Grays Harbor Co had a stoke the evening of July 12th.  She is in recovery at the Puget
Sound Healthcare Center, 4001 Capital Mall Dr SW  Olympia WA  98502 - She is in Room 34, last I heard.
    Please send her your prayers and notes.  She will mostly likely not be able to respond to them for sometime but I know your words will help lift her
spirits and keep her motivated to recover.
    Thank you,
** Jenny Crane, WM, Montesano #21
 
 
NEW GRAND REPRESENTATIVE
 

    On July 26th, the OV of Fidelity & Afton Chapters in Arlington, Sister Jill Okicich, Grand Esther announced that Betty McSpadden is the new Grand Representative of Manitoba.  She is from Madrona Chapter in Anacortes.  Cards of congratulations may be sent to:

Betty McSpadden

1800 Skyline Way #204

Anacortes, WA 98221

 
 
 
MESSAGES FROM MY MAIL BOX
 
Thank you ...
Dear Connie,
    Would you please extend my sincere thank you to all the members of Washington for the wonderful time my husband Ron and I had at your Grand Chapter Session.  We enjoyed the "warm" welcome we received, as well as all the wonderful smiles and greetings.  We look forward to having the opportunity of visiting with you again.  Thanks to all.
In Star Love,
** Kathryn A. Newman, Worthy Grand Marshal, GGC, PGM of Rhode Island
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Chips Program ...
Hello Connie and Star Brothers and Sisters,
    As we all know WA-CHIP is a great tool for families who have loved ones become lost or missing.  The tools provided here in Washington are a 1. Dental Bite Wafer, with Saliva Sample for Tracking Dogs, 2. a Set of DNA Swabs one to be kept with the kit and the other to be sent to a family or friend residing outside the area in the event of a Natural Disaster (Mt. St. Helen's), 3. a Family information and Fingerprint card, 4. a Video of 3 to 5 minutes highlighting the peculiarities that make us all individuals, 5. a Pamphlet published by the RCMMP giving details as how to recognize signs should a loved one be accosted by a Pedophile.
    This information is given free to the Families as "NO ONE CAN PLACE A $ ON A LOVED ONE"S LIFE".  Here in Washington we also have been given guidance
as how to present this program to the aging members of our communities and those with disabilities similar to those found in Alzheimer's patients.
    My Request is of course for help in find partners to help cover the cost of the kits $8.00 per child, this includes equipment replacement and printing and the necessary hard equipment to conduct a CHIP's Event.  But that is not the main reason for this communication, why I am writing at this time is that what we need is help MAN / WOMAN Power at the up-coming events in Monroe August 24 thru September 4th, in Lewis County at their up-coming Fair in August, in Vancouver at their up-coming event also in August, in September at a Merchants Fair in Kirkland, and in October at Salmon Days. There will also be a informational meeting in Spokane on September 9th, location to be provided at a later date, an informational booth in Tacoma sponsored by Fern Lodge is planned, and on August 5th in the Proctor Section of Tacoma at Proctor Days there will be an event for public participation.
    If you can help please contact me at <vdkr@mindspring.com> or by phone (425) 825-9103.  For information on regional contacts please go to the web page <wachip.org> for a local contact or contact the CHIP's web person for that information.  In Lewis County the contact person is Ian Ricker; in the Spokane area, it is Penny Tee; in Vancouver, Dave Emmerton; in the Kirkland area Joseph Gifford; in Issaquah Jeff Swanson; in the Tacoma area contact Chuck Jackson.  All are Masons and or related to members of the Masonic Family.  We also have Grady who is a Member of DeMolay and Erica from Jobs Daughters helping put these programs together.  Both Grady and Erica are member of the Masonic Youth Programs and I urge all to talk to them as to why this program is so important.  They can relate first hand concerning a family incident.
    So in closing if you can help and want to learn what has to be done we have tentatively scheduled a training secession at Sultan / Monroe Lodge in Monroe on Monday Evening August 14th at 7:30 PM. for more information on this training secession contact Cary Cope Master of Sultan/ Monroe Lodge.
    Thanks for help in getting the word out.
** Vinny DiGiulio
 
    On a side note: Caryl Munn of the State Fair Committee say's depending on the weather we should expect between 2000 and 3000 participants this year.
The Fair Committee in Monroe has been advertising this program in the State Fair information packets since January 1st 2006 and it has also been advertised on radio, TV and in Print on a regular basis as part of the State Fair Promotions Program.
- - - -  - - - - - - - - -
 
Happy Birthday to Bugs Bunny.
Bugs was  born on July 27th, 1940.
** Cyber Chat
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
Tribute to Mable Linbo, PGM ...
Connie ~
    I wanted to write something about the passing of PGM Mable Linbo…she was one of the greatest Worthy Grand Matrons the Grand Jurisdiction of Washington ever had.  She was loved and respected by so many of the Members and they followed her in droves!  The Official Visits and the Receptions during her year were always packed…even an Official Visit on a Saturday afternoon at an “off the beaten path Chapter” in 100 degree heat!  She was thoughtful, tasteful, lovely, gracious and always had a flair for glamour.  Those that knew her will, I am sure, remember that she always, always had a lace trimmed hankie in her left hand.  That was just one of her “Mable-isms”!  Her Grand Family was also truly remarkable.  They all got along so well, no bickering or knit-picking, truly a Family that one wanted to be around.  Not one of them tried to run everything or be the center of attention.  When one, some or all of them walked into a room, one could just feel the love!
    Now, I am sure, that some would say that I am very prejudiced when it cam to “my” Mable and rightly so.  On the night of September 10, 1988 she did something that I will never forget and will always be so grateful to her for.  That was the evening of her Reception as Worthy Grand Matron at the old Main Masonic Temple on St. Helens in Tacoma.  The place was packed.  All the chairs on the floor were filled as well as the Balcony area.  Lewis Chapter had done themselves “proud” in their fifth and final Reception for Mable.  After the Grand Representatives had been escorted and introduced themselves, Mable stood with one of those special manila envelopes in her hand. She began talking and looking into the crowd.  Finally, when she couldn’t find whom she was looking for, she sent her Grand Adah, Sister Betty Holland from Mizpah Chapter in Hoquiam, down to the floor to “find this girl from Southwest Washington”.  Betty couldn’t spot her either, so Mable had to ask for ME to stand.  Was I ever shocked and surprised!  Not only was I --- at that time --- one of the youngest Sisters to ever have that honor, but I was also “young” in my years of membership in the Order.  Mable gave me the Commission of the Grand Jurisdiction of Arizona that night.  She planned it because she knew that Sister Dorothy Dewing would be there that evening and since I was a member of her Chapter in Oregon, she wanted Dorothy to be in attendance as well as Sister Gail Giles, the WGM of Oregon that year…my “other” Worthy Grand Matron!
    Every year, since that night, I have always spoken with Mable on the phone on the anniversary date or as close to it as possible.  Little did I realize that last September 10th would be our last time to remember together.  This year, September 10th will be a mixture of happiness and sadness for I won’t have that phone call to make.
    I will love and miss Mable for the rest of my days here, but rejoice in knowing that I will be with her, her Les and of course, Larry and JoAnn Bjorklund as well, some day.  I am sure that Mable has already met up with my own dear Mother and Father and they have all had a nice discussion about me as my ears have sure been burning!
    Our Order, the Grand Jurisdiction of Washington, Lewis Chapter, her Family and many, many friends have lost one who touched so many lives and made them better and the World a better place to dwell in because of her!
    Star Love,
** Diane Wannamaker Terrell, PM Vashti Chapter #136 – Washougal, WA, Grand Representative of Arizona in Washington 09/10/88 ~ 09/01/90
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Madrona Chapter's OV time  ...
Dear Connie,
    I just noticed the time listed for Madrona's Official visit on  Aug. 19th is 7:30.  Correction:  It is an afternoon meeting.  Lunch for grand officers at 11:30 and meeting at 1:30.. Please don't come at 7;30 as you will miss the fun!!  Also, thanks Connie, for the writing of "My Class Reunion"  The timing was perfect as mine is in August.
** Marceine Melcher, PM Madrona #89
- - - - - - - - -
 
It's a Fact ....
    Gladiolas' bottom flowers bloom first, eventually working their way to the top of the plant steam.  In Latin, 'gladiolus' means 'sword', referring to the plant's long saber-like leaves.  You heard it first here ... <grin>
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -    
 
Date Correction...
    Hello, Connie; you've probably already had several corrections as to the date that "MUM" Mable passed away!  I'm adding mine.  The date was July
21st. Thank you.
** Betty By. (Bynon)
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From South Carolina's "estar" ...
    Are you doing all you can to build up our Order?  Are you telling your friends about our Order?  Are our brothers encouraging the lodge brothers to come and join OES?  Are our sisters telling the wives of masons what the Order means to them?  Sisters and Brothers, we MUST help our chapters to grow.  Our Order is just too beautiful to let it just wither away, but we can't assume someone else will do something about it....WE must do it ourselves!  As our WGP, Brother Paul, has said: If each chapter can have a net gain of just one member, we can have 135 new members; instead of a net loss as we've been experiencing for several years.  It's up to you and me.
---Sharon Lee, editor, estar of South Carolina
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Orbit of Eugene VanDyke, age 83 (Malden Chapter)
    Passed away July 13, 2006 in Spokane, WA.  A life-time resident of the Malden-Pine City, Washington area.  He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Elaine VanDyke, at the home; one son, Steve VanDyke, Rosalia; two daughters, Debbie VanDyke, St. John, and Tami Harwood, Malden; two brothers, Don VanDyke, Rosalia, and Gary VanDyke, Malden; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.  He was a 60+ member of Malden Masonic Lodge #188, Master of Masonic Lodge #188 two times, OES #149 (Malden Chapter), Worthy Patron, Rainbow Dad, Rainbow Advisory Board, 23 year Past Commissioner of Whitman County Fire Protection District #7, Kenova Grange, Founder Pine City 4-H Beef Club, lifetime member Washington State Fire Commissioners Association; Whitman County Shrine Club, El Katif Shrine, F.O.E. Post Fall, ID.  Served on the Malden City Council and Malden School District Board.  Graduated Malden High School in their last graduating class in 1941.  Served in the Army. 
-- Spokesman-Review
    He will be sorely missed from his family, the Masonic Fraternity and from his community.  He served as Worthy Patron with Sister Louise Belsby. 
- - - - - - - - -
 
    I just wanted you to know that I have entered the snapdragon part of my life.  Part of me has snapped ... the other part of me is dragging!
- - - - - - - - -
 
Victor, Montana Fire ...
    "Don't let the smoke get in your eyes......."
     I think AGP Mo has been singing this the last few days. 
    Jokes aside, we wanted to inform everyone that YES the fire west of Victor is very close. As some of you know, Mo and I live 7 miles west of Victor, in the "boonies" and in our beloved trees.  The Gash Creek fire is attempting to head our direction.  We have evacuated the horses, camper and truck.  Mo did bring the dozer off a job and parked it close in case we or neighbors needed a fire line cut in.
    Although our haying project has taken longer than expected, we hope to be completely done and have it off the property by today.  With this heat, it's amazing that we have not melted, even when the hay rake broke and we have been raking all by hand.  WHEW!
    The fire began Monday afternoon at 4:30 p.m..  We were having horses shod and thought it was strange how close a 'copter was flying.  Next 15 minutes we saw and smelled the smoke. We knew that winds off the mountains come about 9 in the evening.  SCARY!  2 'copters and 1 bomber worked it but the winds were swirling.  By Tuesday morning, things were not too bad, although not contained.  Deputies came and put us on alert.  By that afternoon, we had terrible gusts and made for a stressful evening.  The acreage is now at 640+ and has jumped the canyon to the North.  We pray that winds don't come in from the North and blow it our way.  I hear them working this a.m. already.  The pieces of burnt bark that floats down are so big, it's hard not to think it catching fire on the deck. 
    We want to say THANKS to all those who have offered help or beds.  We are so grateful for our Star family, you are all priceless.  Prayers are much appreciated for a safe outcome for our little mountain home and surrounding animals and neighbors. 
    We will see you after the smoke settles & the embers die...
Star Love,
-- Mo & Sheila Veerkamp, Naomi #19 Victor
** Montana Stars #7-1720
    Sister Martha ... please tell our Sister and Brother that our prayers are most certainly with them!
 
 
JULY & AUGUST MASONIC FAMILY CALENDAR ....

  • July 29 ... GL:  Seafair Torchlight Parade; 2:30 PM.  Tux.

  • July 29 ... OES:  Tri-Line Meeting; Tulsa, Oklahoma.
  • August 1 ... OES:  OV; Langley Chapter & Tula Chapter; Langley Masonic Center, 2812 E. Grimm RD, Langley; 7:30 PM. 
  • August 2 ... OES:  OV; Naomi Chapter, Narcissus Chapter & Crystal Chapter; Corinthian Masonic Center, 1005 W. Pioneer, Puyallup; 7:30 PM. 
  • August 3 ... OES:  OV; Lakeside Chapter & Kirkland Chapter; Bellevue Masonic Center, 16229 Northrup Way, Bellevue; 7:30 PM. 
  • August 3 ... GL:  Warren G. Harding No. 260, Poulsbo.  Dinner:  6:00 PM.  TU
  • August 4 ... GL:  HV; 7:30 PM.  TU
  • August 5 ... GL:  Outdoor Master Mason Degree, Granite Falls; 10:00 AM; Ladies; TU.
  • August 6 ... GL:  Joint Church Service with Prince Hall Grand Lodge, DuPont; 4:00 PM; Ladies; TU.
  • August 6 ... OES:  Western Washington Grand Representative Picnic; Masonic Park, Granite Falls; Noon. 
  • August 6 ... AMAR:  Scholarship Benefit/Auction at Thorp.  Contact Giny Rieck 509-946-8483.
  • August 7 ... OES:  OV:  Pilgrim Chapter, Esther Chapter & Key City Chapter; Sequim Masonic Center, 700 S. 5th AVE, Sequim; 7:30 PM.
  • August 8 ... OES:  OV; Montesano Chapter; Masonic Hall, 308 S. 1st St., Montesano.  7:30 PM. 
  • August 9 ... OES:  OV; Lackamas Chapter, Martha Washington Chapter & Henry Wentworth Chapter; North Bank Masonic Center, 888 - 17th ST, Washougal; 7:30 PM. 
  • August 10 ... GL:  HV; 7:30 PM.  TU
  • August 10 - 13:  EKS:  Summer PNSA, Great Falls, MT.
  • August 11 ... GL:  OES Golf Tourney, McChord AFB; 1:00 PM.  CTU.
  • August 11 ... OES:  6th Annual Charity Golf Tournament; McChord AFB.  Benefit for Scottish Rite Childhood Language Disorders. 
  • August 12 ... GL:  District 21 & 22's Meeting; BBQ in the Park, Monitor.  Noon; Ladies; CTU.
  • August 13 ... OES:  Rainbow Dream Camp; Granite Falls.
  • August 15 ... OES:  OV; Astral Chapter, Oasis Chapter & Harmony Chapter; Wenatchee Masonic Center, 811 N. Chelan AVE, Wenatchee; 7:30 PM. 
  • August 15 ... GL:  Cornerstone for Adams County Services Building, Othello.  GL opens at 9:30 AM.  Ceremony:  10:30 AM.  Tux.
  • August 16 ... OES:  OV; Magnolia Chapter & Ivanhoe Chapter; Millwood Masonic Hall, 3219 N. Argonne RD, Millwood; 7:30 PM. 
  • August 17 ... OES:  OV; Syringa Chapter & Grace Chapter; Yakima Masonic Center, 511 N. 4th Street, Yakima.  7:30 PM. 
  • August 17 ... GL:  Garfield No. 41 BBQ, LaConner; 6:00 PM; Ladies; TU/CTU.
  • August 18 ... GL:  District No. 20 Golf Tournament; TBD.  CTU.
  • August 18 ... AMAR:  OV at Canal; 5:00 PM Dinner; 7:00 PM Meeting.
  • August 19 ... GL:  Kennewick First Methodist Church, Kennewick.  GL opens at 8:30 AM; Ceremony: 9:00 AM.  Light Refreshments.  Tux/TU.
  • August 19 ... OES:  OV; Madrona Chapter 100th; Masonic Center, 8th & 'O', Anacortes; 1:30 PM. 
  • August 20 ... GL:  WMA Summit, TBD; 1:00 PM; Ladies; TU.
  • August 21 ... OES:  OV; Greenwood Chapter & Doric Chapter; Greenwood Masonic Center, 7910 Greenwood Ave N., Seattle; 7:30 PM.
  • August 22 ... OES:  OV: Cyrene Chapter, Mt. Baker Chapter & Stanwood Chapter; Masonic Temple, 106 Warner ST, Sedro Woolley; 7:30 PM. 
  • August 24 - Sept. 5 ... CHIPS:  Evergreen State Fair in Monroe; 12 days - 12 hours per day.  1500 to 2000 children expected.
  • August 25 ... GL:  District Meeting; Districts 8 & 9, Anacortes; 6:00 PM.  CTU
  • August 26 ... OES:  Reception for WGM of BC & Yukon, Victoria, BC.
  • August 26 ... GL:  Outdoor EA Degree, Quilcene-Jefferson Lodge No 107; 10:00 AM; TU.
  • August 26 ... GL:  District No. 11 Meeting, Quilcene Jefferson Lodge No. 107, 4:00 PM, Ladies; CTU.
  • August 27 ... AMAR:  Golf Tournament, Alderbrook Golf Course/Hood Canal.  Contact Dave Hubbard 360-458-1477 or Karen Ekrem 253-833-3761.  This is a Grand Court Ways & Means Event. 
  • August 29 ... GL:  Whidbey Island No. 15 Past Masters' Night; 6:00 PM.  TU.
  • August 29 ... OES:  OV; Evergreen Chapter's 125th.  Goldendale Masonic Temple, 219 S. Columbus AVE, Goldendale.  7:30 PM. 
 

OES:  Events with Worthy Grand Matron

GL:  Events with the Grand Master
EKS:  Events with El Katif Shrine, Spokane
CHIPS:  Childhood Identification Program
AMAR:  Amaranth
TU = Team Uniform - consisting of blue blazer, grey slacks, white or blue Masonic shirt and team tie.

CTU = Casual Team Uniform - blue Masonic tee-shirt, slacks. 

 
 
GRAND CHAPTER YEAR OF 2006-07
 
THEME:  Our Heritage is the Heart of our Future 
SESSION:  Celebrating the 'Heart' of America
WATCHWORDS:  Faith, Honor & Love
SCRIPTURE:  WGM - 1 Corinthians 13:13 - And now these three remain; faith, hope and love.  But the greatest of these is love.
                      WGP - Isaiah 40:31 - They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
COLORS:  Red, White and Blue
FLOWERS:  WGM - Pansies and all other flowers
                   WGP - Daffodil
EMBLEM:  Hearts
FUN EMBLEMS:  WGM - Penguins
                            WGP - Eagles
SPECIAL PROJECTS:  WGM & WGP - Cancer & MS
                                    WGP - Scottish Rite Center for Childhood Language Disorder's Golf Tournament
SONGS:  WGM - Let a Smile be your Umbrella
               WGP - Proud to be an American
WGM TRIP - Ireland
 
 
INVITATION

 

The Members of

Henry Wentworth Chapter

Lackamas Chapter

Martha Washington Chapter

Cordially invite you to attend the Official Visit of

Worthy Grand Matron

JOANNE CLARK

 

Wednesday, August 9, 2006 at 7:30 PM

Washougal Masonic Hall

888 - 17th Street

Washougal, Washington

Everyone is Welcome ... Please come.

 

 
  
BLUE LODGE AGENDAS
 
ALPHA LODGE NO. 212 ...                                     .
August 3 ... Stated Meeting; 7:30 PM. 
 
DAMASCUS LODGE NO. 199 ...                                .
August 5 ... Pancake Breakfast; 7 AM - 10 AM.
 
DISTRICT NO. 8 ...                   VW  G. Santy Lascano, Deputy of the Grand Master
August 5 ... Open Air Degree; Granite Falls; 8:00 AM.
 
DISTRICT NO. 9 ...                   VW Charrison Lochaby, Deputy of the Grand Master
August 7 ... Masonic Breakfast, Frank's Place; 7:00 AM.
 
FIDALGO LODGE NO. 77 ...                                     .
August 8 ... Stated Meeting; 7:30 PM.  Casual Dress.
 
FRANK S. LAND LODGE NO. 313 ...    W Bob Starowski, WM
July 30 ... Executive Committee Meeting; 2:00 PM.
August 5 ... Total Testosterone (Thommpson, Chr)
 
HERMANOS del ARTE LODGE (Brothers of the Craft) No. 314 ...            W Stretch Bledsoe, WM
July 29 ... Open Installation of Officers; 12 Noon.  Brewster Grange Hall.
 
LANGLEY LODGE NO. 218 ...                                    .
August 7 ... Dinner; 6:30 PM.  Meeting: 7:30 PM.  Casual.
 
MOUNT BAKER LODGE NO. 36 ...                               .                                             .
August 1 ... Stated Meeting; Casual Dress; 7:30 PM.
 
SULTAN MONROE LODGE NO. 160 ...                          .
August 1 ... Stated Meeting; Official Visit of District Deputy; 7:30 PM.
 
 
(If you wish to have your Blue Lodge Agenda in this section, please let me know!)
 
 
 
 
MASONIC NEWS
 
Fish Fry at Kettle Falls Lodge ...
What::     fish fry-picnic-potluck
Where::  Kettle Falls Lodge Hall , 645 Meyers ST, Kettle Falls
When:: August 19, 2006 ...   12:00 noon to 4 PM
Everyone bring a dish, salad, desert, fruit, veggies
... Bring friends,  relatives, prospective members, kids, all are welcome!
** Warren Franz
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Addendum to last issue's 'Masonic Trivia' ...
    There is also a cemetery in Oklahoma City that has a lodge room arrangement similar to the ones previously described.
---Loree Kaylor, Altus #49, Altus, Oklahoma
** Montana Stars #7-1720
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"Are You a Mason?"
    If someone asked you the question "Are you a Mason", how would you answer them?   Just what would your reply be? There are probably as many answers to that question as their are Brothers in the Fraternity, but one that strikes me is one that was printed in "The Masonic Review" in 1853.  It is a poem that I think is well worth the read. I hope all enjoy.  -- Howie Wynia

The Reply ...

I am one of a band,
Who will faithfully stand,
In the bonds of affection and love;
I have knocked at a door,
Once wretched and poor,
And there for admission I stood.

By the help of a friend,
Who assistance did lend,
I succeeded an entrance to gain;
Was received in the West,
By command from the East,
But not without feeling some pain.

Here my conscience was taught,
By a moral quite fraught
With sentiments holy and true;
Then onward I traveled,
To have it unraveled,
What Hiram intended to do

Very soon to the East,
I made known my request
And "light" by command did attend.
When lol I perceived,
In due form revealed
A Master, and Brother, and Friend.

Thus far have I stated,
And simply related,
What happen'd when I was made free
But I've "passed" since then.,
And was "raised" up again
To a sublime and ancient degree.

Thence onward I marched
That I might be "Arched,"
And find out the treasures long lost;
I beheld a bright flame,
From the midst of which came
A voice, which my ears did accost.

Through the "Veils" I then went,
And succeeded at length
The"Sanctum Sanctorum" to find;
By the "Signet," I gained,
And quickly obtained,
Employment which suited my mind.

In the depths then I wrought,
And most carefully sought
For treasures so long hidden there;
And by labor and' toil,
I discovered "rich spoil"
Which are kept by the Craft with care.

Having thus far arrived,
I further contrived
Among valiant knights to appear;
And as pilgrim and knight,
I stood ready to fight,
Nor Saracen foe would I fear.

For the "widow" distressed,.
There's a chord in my breast,
For the helpless and orphan I feel;
And my sword I could draw,
To maintain the pure law,
Which the duty of Tempters reveal.

Thus have I revealed,
(Yet wisely concealed)
What the free and accepted well know,
I am one of a band
Who will faithfully stand
As a Brother, wherever I go.
 
 
TESTED
by David McLaughlan

    On the train heading for Glasgow I raised a subject I'd read about the day before. "Is your church-going a substitute for Christianity?" My wife looked puzzled so I explained. "It's about folk who claim to be Christian because they go to church every Sunday but don't actually lead very Christian lives the other six days of the week."
    Well, we tossed the idea about for a few minutes then the train reached the terminus. Once in Central Station we made our way through the masses of travelers towards the exit. The last thing I expected was to have my question put to the test almost immediately.
    My wife tugged at my sleeve.
    "Look." She pointed to a bank of pay phones against the far wall where a hunched, elderly lady was checking every change return slot. Looking at her many layers of ragged clothing and shoes held together with tape my wife commented, "She's probably wearing everything she owns. And what she isn't wearing is probably in the plastic bag she's carrying."
    I turned against the tide of people and stood for a moment, watching her. Having found no forgotten change this woman, who had to be in her seventies, headed for the news agent's shop.
    She was so small I doubt the sales assistant ever saw her amongst the genuine customers. She picked up a magazine of two and "accidentally" shook out the advertising leaflets and free TV guides. She picked these up off the floor and tucked them into one of her many cardigans. I could only guess they might be insulation to help her through a cold night.
    By now I was feeling like something of a voyeur. It was time to move on. I had seen poor people before. On the streets of Glasgow that night I would probably walk past a dozen professional beggars. But I couldn't walk away.
    Once again the woman made her way, all but unnoticed, through the crowd. Her next stop was the photo booth, where she pressed the coin return button a few times.
    When she came out I was standing in front of her. Now, I'm a fairly big man so I don't blame her for being startled when I said, "Find anything?" But there was something more in her expression. She didn't seem to think I was police, or security, or railway staff, she just seemed totally confused by the fact that someone was paying attention to her.
    "Here." I held out some money.
    She smiled, tried for a few seconds to speak but she seemed to have forgotten how. Then she silently mouthed the words, "Thank you."
    Stunned and scared I stepped back into the crowd. By the time I reached my wife again my tears were flowing freely.
    Minutes before I had been questioning other folk's Christianity. Now I had been tested. If Jesus had been in that old lady I might not have recognised him. So, instead, he sent a messenger, someone I certainly would recognise. In that deeply lined face and those watery blue eyes I had seen my own dearly loved, long departed Granny.
    Long before, when I still had a child's innocence, I had fixed her fence, brought coal for her fire, anything to see Granny smile. And in that face I had seen proof that, decades after her death, by caring for someone else, I had made her happy again. We were on our way to the theatre. but I confess I only saw about half of the performance; the rest was blurred by tears of happiness.
 
** Heart Touchers
 
 
 
LOWRY'S HINTS
 
HINT 1:  A Great Rinse Agent:  Instead of buying an expensive rinse agent for your dishwasher, use vinegar in it's place. Your dishes will sparkle. This works Great.  Also cleans out your dishwasher at the same time....
         * * * * * * * *
HINT 2:  TO CLEAN COFFEE MAKERS:  Drop an EFFER-DENT denture cleaning tablet in a 10 cup coffee maker and add hot water it instead of cold. Brew as usual then rinse.
         * * * * * * * *
HINT 3:  REMOVE MILDEW ... Mix equal parts of non-chlorine Clorox II Lemon Fresh bleach and Palmolive dish soap. Make a paste and apply it to the mildew. You can use a toothbrush to really work it in. This may take a few applications. When mildew brushes off; launder.
         * * * * * * * *
HINT 4:  Store flower bulbs over the winter in discarded nylon stockings. Hand the bulb-filled stockings in a dry place so the air can circulate through them and prevent the bulbs from molding.   (I personally am not going to worry about my dahlia bulbs this fall as the deer come in and munch on those plants all night!  Must be to their liking!!!)
         * * * * * * * *
HINT 5:  When repotting plants, place a coffee filter in the pot before filling it with soil. The filter stops the soil from leaking out of the bottom of the pot and making a mess in the saucer. It also helps keep your soil moist.
 
 
RECIPES
 
GARLICKY POTATO LEEK SOUP

1 1/2 lb. Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2" cubes
2 medium leeks, sliced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups Swanson® Chicken Broth (regular, Natural Goodness™ or Certified Organic)
1 cup light cream
1 cup packed fresh baby spinach
 
    PLACE potatoes, leeks, carrots, garlic and broth in saucepot. Heat to a boil. Cook over low heat 10 min. or until vegetables are tender. STIR in cream and spinach. Heat through.  Serves:  6
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CHEDDAR & ROASTED GARLIC BISCUITS
 
5 cups all-purpose baking mix OR buttermilk biscuit mix
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1 can (14 oz.) Swanson® Seasoned Chicken Broth with Roasted Garlic

    PREHEAT oven to 450°F. MIX baking mix, cheese and broth to form a soft dough. Drop by spoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets, making 24. BAKE for 10 min. or until golden. Serve hot. Makes 24. TIP: Baked biscuits can be frozen. To reheat, wrap loosely in aluminum foil. Heat in 375°F. oven for 10 min. or until hot.
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Chicken Kiev

5 whole chicken breasts, halved and boned
   Salt
1 heaping Tablespoon chopped green onion
1 heaping Tablespoon chopped parsley
1 stick butter, cut into 10 slices
   Flour
2 eggs, slightly beaten
   Dry bread crumbs

INGREDIENTS for Sour Cream Sauce:
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
2 teaspoons butter
1 pint sour cream
1 Tablespoon chopped chives

TO PREPARE:  For the Chicken, place each piece of chicken, boned side up, between two pieces of Saran wrap. Working out from center, pound to form cutlets about 1/4-inch thick. Peel off Saran. Sprinkle with salt. Combine green onion and parsley; sprinkle equal amounts on each cutlet. Place slice of butter on each
cutlet; roll as a jelly roll, tucking in ends of meat. Press to seal well. Dust with flour; dip in beaten eggs; roll in bread crumbs. Chill for at least 1 hour. Fry in deep, hot fat (340 degrees) about 5 minutes or until golden brown. Sour Cream Sauce may be served with chicken.
    For the Sour Cream Sauce, sauté mushrooms in butter. Add sour cream and chives. Heat thoroughly.  Pour over, or serve with Chicken Kiev. SERVINGS: 10 small
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Fisherman's Catch Chowder 
"A fisherman's dream soup with an abundance of vegetables, rosemary, and parsley."

1 1/2 pounds cod fillets, cubed
1 (16 ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, mashed
1 (8 ounce) jar clam juice
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped carrots
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons butter, melted
1/3 cup light cream

DIRECTIONS:  In a slow cooker, stir together the cod, tomatoes, clam juice,  onion, celery, carrots, wine, parsley, rosemary, and salt. Cover, and  cook on Low 7 to 8 hours or on High 3 to 4 hours.  One hour prior to serving, mix flour, butter, and light cream in a  small bowl. Stir into the slow cooker until the fish mixture is thickened.
    This recipe appears in the Allrecipes "Tried & True Slow Cooker & Casserole" cookbook.
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Not Yo' Mama's Banana Pudding Recipe
 courtesy Paula Deen
 
2 bags Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies
6 to 8 bananas, sliced
2 cups milk
1 (5-ounce) box instant French vanilla pudding
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (12-ounce) container frozen whipped topping thawed, or equal amount sweetened whipped cream

    Line the bottom of a 13 by 9 by 2-inch dish with 1 bag of cookies and layer bananas on top. In a bowl, combine the milk and pudding mix and blend well using a handheld electric mixer. Using another bowl, combine the cream cheese and condensed milk together and mix until smooth. Fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Add the cream cheese mixture to the pudding mixture and stir until well blended. Pour the mixture over the cookies and bananas and cover with the remaining cookies. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
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Drip Beef

1 (4- to 5-pound) beef roast
2 (14-ounce) cans beef broth
1 Tablespoon salt
1 Tablespoon pepper
1 Tablespoon basil
1 Tablespoon garlic powder
1 Tablespoon rosemary
1 Tablespoon oregano
2 or 3 bay leaves

TO PREPARE:  Brown the roast on all sides in a skillet. Transfer the roast to a slow cooker. Add the broth, salt, pepper, basil, garlic powder, rosemary, oregano and bay leaves to the slow cooker. Add enough water to cover the roast.
    Cook, covered, on Low for 8 to 10 hours. Discard the bay leaves. Remove the roast to a platter and shred if needed. Serve the shredded beef on buns with pan juices for dipping. Rump roast is preferred for this recipe. SERVES:  10 - 12
 
 
 
HELOISE

 

JOKES ..
 
    There was a Midwestern phone company that was going to hire one team of telephone pole installers, and the boss had to choose between a team of
two Norwegian guys and a team of two Irish guys. So the boss met with both teams and said: "Here's what we'll do. Each team will be installing poles
out on the new road for a day. The team that installs the most phone poles gets the job. Both teams headed right out. At end of the shift, Pat and
Mike, the Irish guys, came back and the boss asked them how many they had installed. They said that it was tough going, but they'd put in twelve.
    Forty-five minutes later, Ole and Sven, the Norwegian guys, came back in and they were totally exhausted. The boss asked, "Well, how many poles did you guys install?" Ole, the team leader wiped his brow and sighed, "Sven and me, we got three in." The boss gasped, "Three? Those two Irish guys put in twelve!
"Yeah,"said Ole, "but you should see how much they left stickin'out of the ground!
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    While attending a marriage seminar on communication, Tom and his wife Peg listened to the instructor declare, "It is essential that husbands and wives know the things that are important to each other." 
    He addressed the men, "Can you describe your wife's favorite flower?" 
    Tom leaned over, touched his wife's arm gently and whispered, Pillsbury All-Purpose, isn't it?" 
    The rest of the story is not pleasant.
- - -  - - - - - - - - - - - - -
   
    I pulled up to the drive-thru of a fast-food restaurant and ordered coffee. I asked the clerk to put some ice cubes into the cup so that I could drink the cool coffee quickly. At the window, there was a delay. 
    Finally, a teen-aged girl came to the window looking frustrated. "I'm having a problem," she announced. "The ice keeps melting."
 
 
AND A WORD FROM YOURS TRULY ...
 
    Two in one week?  Boy howdy!  Is too warm to be outside, so thought I would do a bit of catch-up in the house!  There is a nice breeze today, however ... just hope that no fires get started as the conditions are ripe!
    Am in the baking mode so three loaves later (two of which are in the freezer) and another batch to go!  Tomorrow is potluck at the installation we are going to attend ... so thought about a raspberry upside down cake and maybe a apple gooey cake from the Paula Deen show.  Sounds good, huh!  Since Ted and I have sworn off of desserts (sort of ... unless it is Cold Stone Rocky Road), I can only bake for others.  My charitable act of the day!  Make others fluffy! 
    Speaking of raspberries ... which come in red, purple, yellow and black.  Did you know that they need cold winters and long cool springs to thrive? (No wonder they do so well here!) The difference between them and other fruits that grow on brambles is that they leave their core behind when picked!  Anyway, I believe I need a cup to put into my raspberry cake so will go out and visit the vines.  The ones with the sweetest berries are next to Ted's beehive.  Oh well!  They won't mess with me if I don't mess with them, right???
    Chuck Callen called from Denver yesterday on their way to the Tri-Line Pow Wow in Tulsa.  Seemed he had a bit of news that he had to share.  I asked if he had breakfast on the flight and he said that he was given not one but TWO granola bars!  I asked if that was a breakfast/lunch flight?  I wonder how they are enjoying the hot, humid weather of Tulsa!  I will have to call him and rub it in that we are sitting on 83° and there is a breeze!!
    Ted and the Canada Geese are doing battle!  There must be 40-50 of them TRYING to sit on our beach ... that is until he gets after them.  I can vouch that they are definitely NOT an endangered specie!!!  I stay busy keeping the hummingbird feeders filled as most of you, I reckon.  I have two feeders that just have a red base and I fill it with just plain sugar water.  I have one fancy feeder with a metal design around the glass and a maroon base that I have to dye the water red to entice the birds.  And it is the last feeder they will go to, too!  Don't ask me why!  But they definitely have their food prejudices, huh! 
    Until next time ... Star hugs and happy thoughts. 
** Connie 

 

 

 
    I would sure appreciate your sending me your Ode Cards when finished!  Sure helps with this publication!   
 
 
    Remember! Some mistakes are too much fun to only make once.
 
Star hugs and God Bless America! 
Connie
 
 
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Email articles to:     

 
Connie Shrum
Grand Chaplain, GC of WA
Past Matron x 2;
Associate Matron, Zillah Chapter #111, Newport, WA
Martha, Bethlehem Chapter #87, Deer Park, WA
GGC Triennium Committee - Eastern Star Journal
Email: starsofwa@washingtonoes.org
Creator & Editor:  'Stars of Washington'   Newsletter
 
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