THE STARS OF WASHINGTON
November 13th, 2006
Who
Becomes a Veteran ?
An American Boy Grows Up
Our son was born so long ago, yet it seems like
yesterday...
that I stood in awe before his crib and heard that doctor say,
"You've quite a boy there Mr. Jones." I could only answer with a nod,
for in his very being there I saw the miracle of God.
Later in his high chair, in a manner I deplore,
I saw that Miracle of God throw his oatmeal on the floor.
Well, I fixed him something different, for I felt he must be fed,
but when I turned around again, that bowl was on his head!
A few more years rolled along and he didn't spill things anymore.
But his granddad sent a big bass drum, and once more I deplored
The fact that my miracle of God, had a lusty taste for noise!
When he'd boom! boom! boom! on that big bass drum, I questioned, boys must be
boys?
I asked his whereabouts one day...his Mom said, "He's got a paper route,"
"said he'd help to earn his way as he became an eagle scout."
When they pinned that medal on him, tears welled in my eyes,
and then I gripped his mother's hand, our boy had earned his prize.
I won't forget that September day, when he entered senior high,
he had an air of great excitement, but he left home with a sigh.
He came back that afternoon, and gave us some puzzled looks,
"Wow!", he said, "this school is tough, look at all these books!"
"The choice is yours," his mother said, "You can pick the easy way."
"What you put into life, you'll get out of it. Each man pays his price one
day."
He looked up, and then he smiled, and I saw he'd lost his gloom,
He said, "I'd better look at these," he headed for his room.
My son came home late one day. He seemed all worn out.
I asked a little sharply what this was all about.
He spoke proudly and threw his shoulders back, and in his eyes I caught a
gleam.
"I wanted to surprise you Dad, I'm on the football team!"
They won most of their games, lost a few, it was a thrill to watch him play.
And when they didn't win we knew, he'd met the challenge anyway.
He didn't know it at the time, but, it was a stepping stone,
solid footing for the climb, to face life on his own.
How those three years flew past, when graduation came,
we saw our boy grown up at last, our lives will never be the same.
I guess we've known all along what his goal would be,
from that time three years ago, when he chose responsibility.
He stood in the doorway yesterday, put out a strong right hand.
I held back tears at the uniform he wore to protect his land.
I shook his hand, his mother cried, "Son, why couldn't you wait?"
Embracing her, he softly said, "Mom, if we all did, it would be too late."
"I promise I'll go back to school, when I've met my obligation,
to you, my friends, my girl, my school, and most of all this nation."
"I'll do all I can out there, for I know you'll both be trying,
to make everyone you know aware, we've got to keep Old Glory flying."
And then his mother straightened up, with a smile to hide a tear.
She said, "we're both so proud of you, we'll feel lost without you here."
Someday, you'll know what this moment means, when your boy shakes your hand,
And you watch him as he walks away, the day he becomes a man." --
John Mitchum
P. S. Veterans are men and women who served in the
military (U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard) in times
of war or peace.
Friday, November 17th (3rd Friday) ...
November 17th & 18th ... Oasis Chapter ...
Rummage Sale
Saturday, November 18th (3rd Saturday) ...
-
Guiding Star Chapter ... Style
Show & Luncheon; Tacoma Scottish Rite. 12:00 Noon.
-
Pyramid Chapter, Federal Way
... Lodge Installation Dinner.
-
Tyler Chapter ... Line Officer
Instruction; 9:00 AM.
Sunday, November 19th (3rd Sunday) ...
-
Bethel Chapter
... School of Instruction. Time:
2:00 PM.
-
Cyclamen Chapter,
Auburn ... Build-A-Bear Party
for the Children's Home Society.
Monday, November 20th (3rd Monday) ...
-
Bethlehem Chapter, Deer Park ... Stated Meeting; Friendship
Night; Short Opening. Thanksgiving Theme. Nostalgia: Luci Bristow & Becky
Scott. Serving: Chapter members. Time: 7:30 PM.
-
Ferndale Chapter ... Stated
Meeting; Short Form; Initiation; Fall Dress; Honor 50-Year Members. Bring
new ornaments for Christmas trees. Time: 7:30 PM.
-
Floral Chapter, Monroe ...
Stated Meeting; Short Form; Birthdays (Sept - Dec). Servers: Retha Baird &
Kim Feldman. Time: 7:30 PM.
-
Grace Chapter, Ellensburg ... Stated Meeting; Long Form.
Time: 7:30 PM.
-
Madrona Chapter, Anacortes ...
Stated Meeting; Initiation; Thanksgiving. Refreshments & Decorations:
Betty McSpadden & Mary Gibson. Time: 7:30 PM.
-
Southgate Chapter, Burien ...
Potluck. Stated Meeting; Short Form; Pilgrim Dress; Thanksgiving. Dining
Room: Donna & Gary. Time: 7:30 PM.
-
Victory Chapter, Millwood ... Auxiliary. 12:00 noon.
-
Warren Chapter, Tacoma ...
Stated Meeting; Slipper Night; Long Form; Chapter Dress. Time: 7:30 PM.
Tuesday, November 21st (third Tuesday)
...
-
Astral Chapter, Wenatchee .. Harvest Dinner by the Star
Points. Chair: Shirlee Spilker; 6:30 PM. Stated Meeting; Short Form.
Time: 8:00 PM.
-
Everett Chapter ... Stated
Meeting; Thanksgiving. Refreshments: Gail Lajo. Time: 7:30 PM.
-
Fern Chapter, Tacoma ...
Stated Meeting; Pajama Night & Movie Basket Raffle. Time: 7:30 PM.
-
Greenwood Chapter, Seattle ...
Stated Meeting; Short Form; November Birthdays & Anniversaries.
Refreshments: Irene Hart. Time: 7:30 PM.
-
Guiding Star Chapter, Sumner
... Stated Meeting; Long Form. Time: 7:30 PM.
-
Hope Chapter, Oakesdale ... Stated Meeting; Thanksgiving;
Initiation. Treats: Larry& Darlene Russell. Time: 8:00 PM.
-
Lewis Chapter, Lakewood
... Stated Meeting; Short Form; Thanksgiving. Time:
8:00 PM.
-
Maple Leaf Chapter, Bellingham
... Dinner and programs prior to meeting; refreshments after.) Stated
Meeting; Long Form; Youth Night; Wear your School Colors. Time: 7:30 PM.
-
Priscilla Chapter, Port Gamble
... Stated Meeting; Pilgrim's Pride; Long Form. Time: 7:30 PM.
-
Vineland Chapter, Clarkston ... Stated Meeting; Honor
Conductresses. Time: 7:30 PM.
Wednesday, November 22nd (4th
Wednesday) ...
Thursday, November 23rd (4th
Thursday) ...
HAPPY THANKSGIVING ONE AND ALL!
Friday, November 24th (4th
Friday) ...
November 24th & 25th ... Analia Chapter ...
Holiday Bazaar. Cathy Cook, Chairperson
Saturday, November 25th (4th
Saturday) ...
November 25th - 29th ... Warren Chapter ...
Coffee Stop at Sea-Tac
Monday, November 27th (4th
Monday) ...
-
Corinthian Chapter,
Tacoma ... Stated Meeting; Long Form; Stuffed Turkey's.
Refreshments: Phyllis Robinson & Dorothy Bonawits. Time: 7:30 PM.
-
Martha Chapter, Cheney
... Stated Meeting; Obligation Night. Time: 7:30 PM.
-
Trinity Chapter,
Tumwater ... Stated Meeting; Holiday Break; Balloting; Short
Form; Chapter Dress; Birthdays - Sagittarius. Time: 7:30 PM.
Tuesday, November 28th (4th
Tuesday) ...
-
Amethyst Chapter,
Seattle ... Stated Meeting; Short Form; Chapter Dress.
Honor Chaplain & Marshal. Dining Room: Barbara Murray & Nancy Lambert.
Time: 7:30 PM.
-
Centralia Chapter
... Potluck. Stated Meeting; 'Where It All Began - England. Long Form;
Initiation; Thanksgiving. Refreshments: Gen & Paul Cooley. Time: 7:30
PM.
-
Naomi Chapter, Puyallup
... Stated Meeting; 'Carousel of Thanksgiving'; WM & WP 100-year-old
Birthday Party. Short Form; Chapter Attire. Time: 7:30 PM.
-
Vida Chapter, Tacoma
... Stated Meeting; Thanksgiving; Long Form. Refreshments: Marge R. &
Chrissie M. Time: 7:30 PM.
Wednesday, November 29th (5th
Wednesday) ...
Thursday, November 30th (5th
Thursday) ...
-
Laurel Chapter, Black
Diamond ... Honor Night
for Valgene Orlando, Grand Representative of Puerto Rico in Washington;
Jeanette Carroll, Chairman. Short Form; Val's choice of Dress.
Time: 7:30 PM.
Disclaimer "Calendar of Events like the
weather, is subject to change"
MESSAGES FROM MY MAIL BOX
Prayers needed ...
Please remember Sister Becky Aldrich, Grand Marshal, in
your thoughts and prayers this week. Her father will be having extensive
surgery on Tuesday and he and his family will be needing all our love,
support, and prayers!
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
Passing of PGM ...
Charlotte Shaffer, PGM (Colorado) passed away at 7:00
AM this morning, Nov. 13. Arrangements later.
Sister Charlotte was Worthy Grand Matron in 1971-1972 with
Brother Robert C. Scott, WGP (d).
Fraternally,
** Larry Wullbrandt, PGP, GGCCM-Registration, Colorado News group; AP-Manzanita
85, Littleton, CO
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Arts & Craft Fair ...
“Follow the Star”
Arts & Craft Fair
Sponsored by
Analia #112 O.E.S.
Friday & Saturday,
November 24 & 25th, 2006, 10 am – 4 pm
Fabulous
60 tables of
Handmade crafts
Lunch in the
Starlight Cafe’
& much more!!
Edmonds Masonic
Center
515 Dayton,
Edmonds
Call (206)
542-7142 for details
** Stephanie
Hoye
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Sadness ...
I just
received word that Eleanor Palmer, Grand Representative of
Oregon, passed away on October 27th. Cards can be sent to her
husband Dick.
** Mary Ellen
Sparks
Address:
1483 SE Lake Flora RD
Port Orchard, WA 98367
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
More Sadness ...
PGP Bill Anderson (Montana) and wife Virginia received shocking news
Saturday morning. He sent regrets at being unable to attend the Official
Visit in Bigfork on Saturday.
This is Bill's sister's son and family in Denver. So it would be
Bill's nephew, his wife and children. A hit and run driver struck them
while crossing a street with a stroller, killing the mother and her two
young children and injuring the youngster's father. Two men have been
arrested.
---Marilyn Bowman, PGM, WM Flathead Lake #128, Bigfork
(If you wish to send cards, Bill and Virginia's address is: Mr. and Mrs.
Bill Anderson, 801 Hastings, Missoula, MT 59801.)
** Montana Stars #8-1785
- - - - - - - - - - - -
Famous Stars ...
-Clara Barton (possibly initiated by Rob Morris himself), famous nurse
-Colleen Dewhurst (actress and wife of Mason George C. Scott)
-Everett M. Dirksen, Orator and Congressman from Illinois (Senate Minority
Leader)
-Dale Evans (entertainer and wife of Mason Roy Rogers)
-Martha Griffiths, Congresswoman from Michigan, Victoria Chapter #290 (Best
known for adding to the 1964 Civil Rights Act the prohibiting of sex
discrimination)
-Barbara Mandrell, country singer/performer -- rumored and unconfirmed
-Ruth Ann Minner, Governor of Delaware, Georgetown Chapter #9
-Eleanor Roosevelt (wife of Mason and President Franklin D. Roosevelt)
-Countess of Strathlorne, mother of Queen Elizabeth of England
-President Harry S. Truman (Only president known to be a Star)
-Mary Jane Truman, PGM (1950-51), Grand Chapter of Missouri, Grandview
Chapter # 365 (Harry Truman's sister)
-Maxine Waters, Congresswoman from California
-Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of "Little House on the Prairie" book series,
possibly of Bethlehem #13 in De Smet, South Dakota
** Brother Mitch Duszynski, -Worthy Patron (4x), Hope Chapter #104,
Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, Grand Representative of Idaho in Illinois GGC
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Methow Valley Chapter has 7 pedestals available to
either an OES Chapter, Rainbow Assembly, Jobes Daughters Bethel or DeMolay
Chapter. They are presently white in color and have lights and wiring. We
can make arrangements to deliver within reasonable (12 Hours) driving
distance or make other arrangements if further away. For more information
or to make arrangements please contact either the Worthy Matron Judy Herrst
or Worthy Patron Vern Herrst at 509-996-3210.
Thank You
** Vern Herrst
- - - - - - - - - - - -
EWGR ...
Dear Friends,
It is that time again! Our Grand Representatives Club (Eastern
Washington) will be meeting Friday, Nov. 17th at 12:30 at the Old
Country Buffet on Rowan and Division. Please send your reservations via
e-mail to me or call Lois McConnell.
Please remind other members of the club that do not have e-mail about
our meeting and encourage them to come. Escorts are always welcome.
Star Love,
** Louise Belsby, Secretary
- - - - - - - - - - -
Attention ...
ALIENS ARE COMING TO ABDUCT ALL THE GOOD LOOKING AND SEXY PEOPLE. YOU
WILL BE SAFE, I'M JUST EMAILING TO SAY GOODBYE.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Occidental Chapter News ...
Before Occidental Chapter's Stated Meeting, November 15, at 6:15 PM the
officers will serve a Turkey Buffet with lots of trimmings for a donation of
$5 minimum. For each $5 guests will receive 5 chances on a drawing, and for
each additional dollar donated another chance. One item is a beautiful plate
from Gumps of San Francisco.
For reservations contact Edith Grambo at 206-784-1090 or WM Irma Mathisen
at 206-363-9991.
- - - - - - - - - - - -
Sad News ...
I don't know if anyone has contacted you yet, but LaNita's Brother
passed away Sunday the 26th of Oct. He lived in Colorado Springs, and we
had to leave in the middle of Iowa's Grand Chapter to attend the Funeral
and Memorial which was held on the 1st of Nov.
Send Cards to ( 9209-115th Ave N.E. Lake Stevens WA. 98258)
Thank You.
** Frank & Nita Pascoe
Good News ...
Dale Cooper, Deputy Instructor, had quadruple bypass
surgery last Wednesday and came home from the hospital on Sunday. Stopped
in to see him last night and he is doing great. Cannot drive for a month
nor do any lifting, but other than that he is doing great. He is the cook
in the family and will probably take those duties back soon as Freda's
cooking is not like his.
Cards of good wishes to Dale Cooper, 4918 W Princeton Pl, Spokane 99205.
** Joan Kershner, Friend of a Feather
Pierce County PM & PP
News ...
The Pierce County Past
Matrons' and Past Patrons' Association will meet on Thursday November 16 to
honor their Past Presidents. The noon luncheon will be at Dryer Masonic
Center in Parkland with Faith Chapter hosting.
Call Margie Bunge,
253-564-1130, for reservations.
- - - - - -
- - - - - - -
Sadness in
Kentucky ...
Please keep the
family of Sis. Wanda Blevins, Grand Adah, in your prayers.
Sis. Wanda passed away at 1:30 a.m. today, 11/06/2006. She was installed as
Grand Adah on October 25 and she was ill at that time.
She was a lovely lady, and I enjoyed getting to work with her during PGM
Carolyn Stull's year in the Grand East as Wanda was one of Carolyn's District
2 club members.
Arrangements are pending, but she will be at Milward's Funeral Home on
Southland Drive in Lexington, KY. Sis. Wanda's husband has asked the Grand
Officers to preside at the Eastern Star Funeral.
** David L.White, Secretary, Middletown Chapter #319 OES, Middletown, KY
Update On Linda Angel, PGM, Idaho -
Sister Linda Angel, PGM Idaho, GGCCM Visionquest, and husband Bill were
on their way to GGC in Minneapolis when she had an unexpected stay at the
hospital in Billings. After many tests they turned back for home. Linda
had gall bladder surgery about 6 weeks ago, and a stone was left behind in a
duct causing much pain. She will undergo another surgery as her Dr. can get
her scheduled. As for now she is on a restricted diet and resting at home.
We were sorry she missed GGC, but one's health is much more important.
Her address for cards is 511 Juneberry Lane Priest River, Idaho 83856,
email is
angelsew@sandpoint.net
Take care all, with Star Love and Bear Hugs,
Linda Hattrick, PGM Idaho
Worthy Grand Esther
** Montana Stars
- - - - - - - - - - - -
WWGR ...
Connie,
Hopefully this will go out next week in your Stars and Stripes. he Western
Washington Grand Representatives Luncheon will be held in Stanwood on Monday
November 13th. The luncheon is at 12:00 o'clock with the meeting to follow.
The cost is $6.00. Reservations can be sent to Ann Taylor, 272 E.
Prestwick Dr. Camano Island, Wash. 98282. Her phone number is 360-387-9540. It
would really help if people would let us know by Nov. 10th if they are coming.
Thank you.
** Janice Dorsey
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
Amaranth News
HI All:
First: Sunshine
S.K. Ken Lawson, PGRP had back surgery on Monday. He is doing well and will
be home soon. H.L. Karen Lawson has a cold and is trying to recoup before
Ken comes home. Send cards to: 395 W. Old Olympic Hwy. Olympia, WA
98502-8883.
H.L. Velma O'Donovan AGL just got out of the hospital after 5 days with
pnuemonia. Send cards to: 5710 242nd St. S.W. Mountlake Terrace, WA
98043-5443.
Now for O.V. news update.
Lakewood Ct. in Tacoma's O.V. on Nov. 11 will be at 2 pm.
Group meeting is at 9 am at Lakewood. Lunch will be at 12 noon Turkey dinner
$7 with O.V. at 2 pm.
Please pass the information on to those who do not have e-mail. Thanks.
** Bonnie McCroskey, Grand Sec. Wash.
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
Drawing ...
(11/1/06) ... Tonight, November 1st, a drawing was held for the Christmas
afghan that Barbara Richman of Sunshine Chapter had been offering to members.
The proceeds were presented to Dorothy Youngs who will use them to send
Christmas boxes to the troops.
The afghan was made by Barbara's sister and instead of selling it at
Sunnyside's Country Fair at their September meeting tickets were sold to use
for postage to be given to Dorothy Youngs of Beulah Chapter who has been
involved with preparing and sending hundreds of boxes to our service men.
Winner of the afghan tonight was Diane Osborne, Grand
Conductress, of Oasis Chapter. When I called her tonight to congratulate
her I found that she was at General Grand Chapter so plan to meet her in
Waitsburg at their OV later this month to present it to her.
I want to thank all those who participated in this very worthwhile
project and though you didn't win you can rejoice with Diane that she did.
Thanks Connie for sharing this in your next e-mail of Stars of
Washington.
** Barbara Richman
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
News??
There have been many, many times when I may have
:
disturbed you
troubled you
pestered you
irritated you
bugged you
And today I
just want to tell you that :
I PLAN TO CONTINUE !!!!!!!
Hope you don't mind!!!
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
CYBER CHAT - Monday, November 13, 2006, Cyber Chat Inbox
Greetings from Brandermill....
I sit here at my computer and write and look out the window ...
I look at the leaves blowing from my neighbor on my left - his massive oak
leaves - blowing into my yard, the winds just picking them up and whirling
them into a whirlwind ... parking them all in the center of my yard ...
I frown.
I sit here at my computer and write and look out the window ...
I look at the leaves blowing from my neighbor on my right - his massive oak
leaves - blowing into my yard, the winds just picking them up and whirling
them into a whirlwind ... parking them all in the center of my yard, on top
of the leaves blown into my yard from my neighbor on the left ...
I frown.
I sit here at my computer and write and look out the window ...
I look at the leaves blowing from my neighbor across the street - his
massive oak leaves - blowing into my yard, the winds just picking them up
and whirling them into a whirlwind ... parking them all in the center of my
yard, on top of the leaves blown into my yard from my neighbor on the left
... parking them all in the center of my yard, on top of the leaves blown
into my yard from my neighbor on the right and now from across the street
...
I frown.
As I sit here at my computer and write and look out the window ...
I look at the winds grasping the leaves from my yard into an upward
spiraling swirling whirlwind, and scattering the massive oak leaves back
into my neighbors yards on my left and right ... and across the street ..
life and living is good ...
I smile.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Congratulations are in order ...
Hello Connie, perhaps you know this but just in case you don't ... June
& Kenny (Lee) will be celebrating 50 years of marriage on Nov. 22 (1956).
Thought maybe you could mention this in Stars of Washington. Thanks.
** Carol Cloud, PM, Yuma Chapter #14, Yuma, Arizona
- -
- - - - - - -
Lees will
celebrate 50th anniversary on Sunday ...
(newspaper clipping
... )
In celebration
of their 50th wedding anniversary, the children and grandchildren of Ken and
June Lee will host a reception for family and friends at Don's Restaurant in
Soap Lake on Sunday, November 19 from 2-4 PM.
L. Kenneth Lee
and June A (Foerstner) Lee were married on Thanksgiving Day - November 22,
1956 - in Yuma, Arizona.
Before settling
in Soap Lake in 1967, Ken and June traversed the country, living in such
exotic places as Flagstaff, AZ; San Diego, CA; Jacksonville, FL; Messina, NY;
and Kittitas, making friends and adding three bundles of joy as they went
(yes, three! Yes, joy!)
Ken, who retired
from the Grant County PUD after 30 years, also served on the Soap Lake city
council for 20 years as Mayor of Soap Lake for four years. He is currently
active in the Order of Eastern Star and serves as the Deputy of the Grand
Master, F&AM of Washington, District 28.
June has been
employed by the Soap Lake School District for umpteen dozen years (since
1969), serving as the district's counselor and known as 'Mrs Lee' to many
generations of students. She is a Past Grand Matron of Washington (Order of
Eastern Star) and a newly appointed committee member of the General Grand
Chapter.
Please join us
in this celebration. As the eventual inheritors of all the folks' "stuff", we
'kids' implore you - no gifts!
NOVEMBER MASONIC FAMILY CALENDAR ....
-
November 13 ... OES: Merger of
Fidelity Chapter into Afton Chapter. 7:30 PM.
-
November 14 ... GL:
HV- 7:30 PM
-
November 15 ... OES: Oregon
Exchange; Maple Chapter; Seaside, OR.
-
November 16 ... OES: OV; Pacific
Chapter; (Oregon visits Washington), Masonic Temple, 205 Spruce St.,
Ilwaco. 7:30 PM.
-
November 16 - 19 ... GL:
Grand Lodge of Maryland; Tux, TU.
-
November 17 ... OES: Welcome
Chapter (Robe Night); Union City Masonic Center, 19342 N. Hwy 101,
Valley Junction; 7:30 PM.
-
November 18 ... OES:
Reception; Pat Amdahl, Grand Martha.
Bremerton Masonic Center; 2:00 PM.
-
November 20 ... OES: OV;
Waitsburg Chapter & Alki Chapter; Waitsburg Masonic Hall, 102 W. Second
St, Waitsburg. 7:30 PM.
-
November 20 ... GL: EXCOM,
Committee Forum Landmark on the Sound; 1:00 PM; TU.
-
November 20 ... GL: Board of
Trustees; Landmark on the Sound, Des Moines; 4:00 PM; TU.
-
November 23 ... HAPPY THANKSGIVING
-
November 25 ... GL:
Installation of Officers of Shedd Lodge No.
79, AF&AM of Oregon; Tux.
-
November 27 ... OES: OV; Faith
Chapter (50th Anniversary); Dryer Masonic Center, 306 S. 134th St.
Parkland. 7:30 PM.
-
November 28 ... GL:
Finance Committee Meeting, Seattle Scottish
Rite, 1:30 PM.
-
November 29 ... OES: OV; Maple
Leaf Chapter (Canadian Exchange); Bellingham Masonic Hall, 2626 W.
Maplewood Ave., Bellingham. 7:30 PM.
-
November 30 ... GL: Grand Lodge
of Texas.
OES:
Events with Worthy Grand Matron
GL:
Events with the Grand Master
EKS:
Events with El Katif Shrine, Spokane
CHIPS:
Childhood Identification Program
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.
The Vet I Met: A Veteran's Day Miracle
A chance meeting with a soldier I once knew showed me that kindness
often comes back full circle.
By Jaye Lewis
I was feeling my age that morning as I limped from the parking lot up
to the Physical Therapy Building.
I was pushing fifty. I was crippled, and I was feeling like a failure.
Thankfully, I was happily married. However, health problems had cut short
my dreams of finishing my education. Gloomily, I couldn't recall a thing
that I had ever done that was important.
My thoughts became more disheartened when I noticed the middle-aged
man limping in front of me--his long gray hair blowing in the wind. I just
knew I'd be stuck in the waiting room with him. I was in no mood for a
conversation. I knew I was in for a long and painful wait.
By the time I reached the hallway, one of the two chairs available was
occupied by the gray-haired man. Reluctantly, I took my seat next to him,
hoping that I could bury myself within the pages of an outdated magazine.
My bubble of protection was immediately interrupted by his curious
stare. I looked up with a sigh. He gave me an uncertain smile as our eyes
met.
"I know you," he said.
"No, you don't."
"Yes, I'm certain I know you."
"I'm not from here," I insisted.
"No. I've met you someplace before."
"That's impossible. I'm certain we've never met."
"I feel that I know you from long ago," he said with conviction.
In spite of myself, I was intrigued. We played "twenty questions," and
we finally got around to the Vietnam War and San Francisco.
He had served in the Army. He'd been wounded in battle, and he was
darned proud of it.
"I didn't do anything important," I said. "I served stateside, as a
U.S. Navy WAVE, at San Francisco International Airport. I married way too
soon, and I was discharged when I became pregnant," my voice trailed off.
Suddenly, the man became very excited.
"I remember receiving help from a young WAVE," he grinned, "with red
hair just like yours! It was in the spring of '67, when I came back
wounded from Vietnam."
He continued, "I've never seen anyone like her, before or since. She
moved heaven and earth to make sure that I was well taken care of. She was
a tiger, all right. I was badly wounded, barely dragging on crutches. She
got me into a wheelchair, and she literally ran after a local bus, making
them stop. Then she nearly carried me onboard, giving the driver careful
instructions to make sure that I arrived at the hospital, safe and sound.
And then she called to see how I was!"
"I didn't see her, again, until four months later, when I was heading
home, still on crutches. All I saw was this WAVE fighting like a wildcat,
trying to get away from some drunken sailor."
Chills crept up my spine as I remembered the wounded soldier who had
rescued me.
"I just couldn't let that girl be ill-treated, after all she had done
for me. I threatened that sailor with one of my crutches and he finally
put her down. I escorted her back to her desk..."
"And then you went and got the sailor," I choked on the words, "and
you made him apologize to me."
Tears streamed down my cheeks, as I remembered that day, and him.
How could this happen? My rescuer from 1967 was sitting next to me,
twenty-five years later and half a continent away. Our lives had come full
circle, and there we sat--thanking each other for a mutual kindness, long
ago.
We talked for a long time, and then we parted. I learned some
important truths that day.
First, people are seldom what they seem to be at first glance.
Second, kindness is its own reward. It changes the lives of both
parties.
Last, I learned that though my time was short, I had served my
country, simply by serving those who had sacrificed everything.
I continued that day a happier woman because I understood that a
kindness given will often return to bless you again.
INVITATION
Corinthian Chapter #179
Cordially invites You To Attend the Reception
Honoring
The Station of GRAND ELECTA
of the Grand Chapter of Washington
Order of the Eastern Star
and
BETTY CROFT
Saturday, December 2nd, 2006; 7:30 PM
at Mann Middle School
1022 S. 52nd Street and 'J' Street
Tacoma, Washington
A Special Invitation is Extended to the
Following:
Heritage Grand Family
Chapter Electas
Past Grand Electas
June Bug Deputy Instructors 2003-2004
Worthy Matrons and Patrons 2002-2003 and 2005-2006
Members of Eastern Star
and Especially all members of Corinthian and Faith
Chapters and Friends
INVITATION
Reliance Chapter OES
Cordially Invites you to attend the Honor Night for
JUDY WIECK
Deputy Instructor
November 16, 2006; 7:30 PM
Bremerton Masonic Temple
5th & Warren
Bremerton
BLUE LODGE AGENDAS
ARLINGTON LODGE NO. 129
November 18: Installation of Officers; 2:00 PM.
November 22: Stated Meeting; 7:30 PM.
CAMANIO LODGE NO. 19
November 18: Installation of Officers; 2:00 PM.
CENTENNIAL LODGE NO. 25
November 15: Step-up Night. 6:30 PM.
CRYSTAL LODGE NO. 122
November 21: Stated Meeting; Poker/Degree Night;
7:30 PM.
DAMASCUS LODGE NO. 199
November 14: Stated Meeting; 7:30 PM.
DIAMOND LODGE NO. 83
November 14: Stated Meeting; Step-up Night; 7:30
PM.
November 17: Q'ly Texas Hold'em Tournament
EVERETT LODGE NO. 137
November 13: Stated Meeting; 7:30 PM.
FIDALGO LODGE NO. 77
November 14: Dinner; 6:30 PM. Step-up Night; 6:30
PM.
November 28: Special Communication; 7:00 PM.
FRANK S. LAND LODGE NO. 313
November 16: Ritual Night; MRC; 7:00 PM
November 18: Apple Cup Party. Thompson, Chair.
GARFIELD LODGE NO. 41
November 16: Stated Meeting; 7:30 PM. Elections;
PM Night.
November 25: Installation of Officers; 2:00 PM.
KULSHAN INTERNATIONAL LODGE NO. 186
November 21: Stated Meeting; 7:30 PM.
LYNDEN LODGE NO. 56
November 16: Special Communication; 7:30 PM.
November 18: Masonic Leadership Association; 2626
W. Maplewood, Bellingham Masonic Center. 10:00 AM.
November 23: Masons Lunch - Rusty Wagon; 12 Noon.
November 30: Masons Lunch - Rusty Wagon; 12 Noon.
NOOKSACK VALLEY LODGE NO. 105
November 18: Open Installation of Officers;
Nooksack Masonic Hall; 7:00 PM.
NEWPORT LODGE NO. 144
November 14: Masons honoring OES members with
dinner. 5:30 PM.
November 16: Stated Meeting; 7:30 PM.
SKYKOMISH LODGE NO. 259
November 16: Stated Meeting; 7:30 PM.
SULTAN-MONROE LODGE NO. 160
November 21: Stated Meeting; Elections; 7:30 PM.
WHATCOM LODGE NO. 151
November 16: Dinner: 5:30 PM. Stated Meeting;
6:30 PM.
WHIDBEY ISLAND LODGE NO. 15
November 21: 6:30 PM Dinner; 7:30 PM Meeting -
Elections.
(If you wish to have
your Blue Lodge Agenda in this section, please let me know!)
MASONIC NEWS ...
North Hill Lodge No. 210, Free and Accepted Masons
of Washington
Cordially invites you to attend the
93rd Annual Public Installation of Officers
Saturday, November 18, 2006 ... 10:00 o'clock in
the morning
North Hill Masonic Temple
706 W. Garland Avenue
Spokane, Washington
Gerald D. Braun, Worshipful Master
R. T. 'Curly' Werner, Worshipful Master Elect
Reception following
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To the members of the Masonic Family of
Renton,
Having been asked to find a Masonic Hall the REPS' (
Radio Enthusiasts of Puget Sound) could use for their fall show I wish to
thank the Members of
St. Andrews Lodge # 35 the Jobs Daughters that meet there and the Members of
the Masonic Family who attended the program.
The program and location was well received and REPS' would like to host
a fall program again there next year and once again invite the Masonic Family
to attend. There were 50 people for the morning performance and lunch and in
excess of 100 people for the afternoon performance. While there I was
very impressed with the non-Masonic interest in the paintings and photos on
the hall walls and had the pleasure or should I say displeasure to overhear
several of the attendees say I did not know he was a Mason. Also several of
those in attendance asked many questions about the Masons and what if offered
to the Community. To VWB Greg of District #4 your neighbor commented on the
Hall and said he was never in one before he is also interested in the
fraternity. You may want to speak to him and invite him to some of the public
events. To Bethell 45 your lunch especially the salad was received with
applauding hands and all there asked that I convey their thanks for a
wonderful lunch. The program was video taped for airing around the world as
there were attendees from as faraway as Australia and New England who came for
the performance.
Once again Thank You for the use of the St Andrews Masonic Hall in Renton
and it is hoped this program will take place again next year. Plans are in
the works but wont be finalized until the yearly convention held in this year
in Bellevue in June of 2007. I will have picture and videos available as
soon as I receive them from their photographer.
Fraternally,
** Vinny DiGiulio
THE ORIGINS OF VETERANS DAY
When President Abraham Lincoln stood to address the war-torn nation in
his Second Inaugural Address in 1865, he made a promise to our nation’s
veterans, saying that America would “…care for him who shall have borne the
battle and for his widow and his orphan.” Those words of President Lincoln’s
became the motto of the Veterans Administration.
A few generations later, when the end came to World War I, November
11, 1919 was set aside to commemorate the sacrifices made by American
soldiers to gain a lasting peace for the world. Called Armistice Day,
soldiers who survived the war marched in parades through their home towns.
Dignitaries and veterans made speeches and held ceremonies of thanks for the
peace that had been won. Had WWI been the “war to end all wars,” we would
probably still observe Armistice Day today. After WWII, Armistice Day
continued to be observed, but Americans realized that there was a need to
recognize those who had made sacrifices in other conflicts.
In 1954, President Eisenhower signed a bill proclaiming November 11 as
Veterans Day, and called upon Americans everywhere to rededicate themselves
to the cause of peace. He issued a Presidential Order directing the head of
the Veterans Administration, now the Department of Veterans Affairs, to form
a Veterans Day National Committee to organize and oversee the national
observance of Veterans Day. November 11 was designated as Veterans Day to
honor veterans of all U.S. wars. In 1971 President Nixon declared it a
federal holiday on the second Monday in November, but it became apparent
that November 11 was too historically significant to bypass, so in 1978
Congress formally returned the observance of Veterans Day to the customary
date of November 11.
This Veterans Day, ceremonies and observances will be held throughout
the country--prayer services, rallies, assembly programs, parades, patriotic
speeches, and graveside flag displays. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at
Arlington National Cemetery outside Washington D.C. where thousands of
service personnel are buried is the focus of the nation's tribute on
Veterans Day.
LOWRY'S HINTS
HINT 1: Make easy work of greasing a pan with a bottle
moistener (available at most office-supply stores). Just fill the bottle
with oil and press the sponge onto the pans to grease.
* * * * * * * * * *
HINT 2: Sheets of aluminum foil have a mind of their own
at times, crinkling and folding in every direction. To line a cookie sheet,
broiling pan or roasting pan, invert the pan and press the foil over the pan
bottom. Once the foil is molded over the bottom, slide it right in when you
turn the pan over.
* * * * * * * * * *
HINT 3: Making An Old Chair Comfy..... Older, more
uncomfortable chairs can be modified for comfort by simply removing the
seat, removing the staples from the underside, adding some
additional batting, then restapling. Now any chair can be a comfy chair!
* * * * * * * * * *
HINT 4: Foggy Windshield? Don't you hate having a foggy
windshield? Go to your discount store and buy a chalkboard eraser. Keep the
eraser in the glove
box of your car. When the windows fog, rub with the eraser! Works better
than a cloth!
* * * * * * * * * *
HINT 5: Want to make your CLEAR windows FROSTED? Add 1
tablespoon of Epsom Salt to 1 cup beer. Brush on the window! Let dry..To
remove the frost, wash off with ammonia! This is really neat. Just remember
to cover any wood or furniture nearby, because this drips!
RECIPES
Copycat Brooklyn Cafe Sun Dried Tomato Seared Scallops
10 sea scallops
salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp. Garlic, minced
2/3 cup orange juice
1/4 cup & 2 tbsp. Olive oil
1 tomato, diced
1 bunch fresh basil
1 tbsp. Lemon juice
3 zucchini, julienned
1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes
Preparation:
1. If sun dried tomatoes are moist, dry in 200 degree oven for about 15
minutes (until dry)
2. Chop sun-dried tomatoes in blender until it becomes a smooth powder, set
aside.
3. Add basil, orange juice, and lemon juice to blender. Blend on moderate
speed while drizzling 1/4 cup of olive oil in mixture.
4. Heat non-stick pan over medium heat, add 1 tbsp. Olive oil and garlic.
Sauté garlic for 15 seconds, do not burn, then add zucchini. Sauté together,
stirring frequently for 2 minutes until zucchini softens. Season with salt and
pepper. Add tomatoes then turn off heat.
5. Heat another non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Season scallops with salt
and pepper and with sun-dried tomato powder. Add 1 tbsp. Olive oil to pan and
add scallops slowly.
6. Let cook for about 3 minutes, then flip. Let cook for another 2 minutes;
transfer to a paper towel.
To serve: Mound zucchini in the middle of two dinner plates. Place 5
scallops around each mound. Drizzle vinaigrette around the dish. Garnish with
fresh basil sprig and a sprinkling of tomato powder.
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Copycat Cracker Barrel Old Country Store’s Fried Apples
6 tart apples — sliced
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 cup bacon drippings
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/8 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 dash nutmeg
In a large skillet, melt bacon drippings. Pour apples evenly over the
bottom of the skillet. Pour lemon juice over them, then brown sugar, then
salt. Cover and cook over low heat for 15 minutes until apples are tender and
juicy. Sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg.
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Copycat PF Chang`s Szechwan Chicken Chow Fun
4 ounces ground chicken (cooked)
14 ounces chow fun noodles (wide rice noodle)
2 teaspoons minced scallions
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon chili paste
1 teaspoon Szechwan preserved vegetables (can be found
at Asian market)
2 teaspoons shredded black fungus mushrooms
1 teaspoon Sesame oil
***Sauce***
3 teaspoons soy sauce
2 teaspoons vinegar
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon mushroom soy sauce
2 teaspoons water
Directions: Separate the chow fun noodles and cover with plastic wrap until
ready for use. Heat the wok and add 2 teaspoons vegetable oil. Stir fry garlic
and chill paste for about 6 seconds. Add ground chicken and stir fry with
garlic and chill paste. Add black fungus mushrooms and sauce stir-fry for
about 10 seconds. Separate the noodles and mix into the wok a handful at a
time. Continue cooking for 2 to 4 minutes or until the noodles are hot. Mix in
sesame oil before serving. Serve on plates. Garnish with Szechwan preserved
vegetables and minced scallions.
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Copycat T.G.I.Friday`s Sizzling Chicken and Cheese
2 (4-oz) chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon chopped garlic
1/2 cup shredded Chihuahua white cheese
2 slices American cheese
Mashed Potatoes
***Marinade:***
2 tablespoons chopped garlic
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
2 ounces olive oil
1 teaspoon crushed red chilies
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
***Pepper & Onion Medley:***
1 green pepper, julienne
1 red pepper, julienne
1 yellow onion, julienne