THE STARS OF WASHINGTON
 
December 24th, 2006
 

Lodge Number One, the North Pole

 

 '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 savor 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 trestle-boards danced in their head;

 When up on the roof there arose such a clatter

 Our Tiler 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 Tiler relayed.

 He looked tow’rd the Master's most dignified chair

 And said, voice near trembling, 'Most Worshipful Sir

 There’s 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!

 

  Merry Christmas and Season’s Greetings to one and all!

 

  "A man's honour is not measured for how tall he stands, but for how often he bends to help, comfort and teach."

** Shared by Howie Wynia

 

 
THE HERITAGE GRAND FAMILY OF WASHINGTON
ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR
December 2006
 
Dear Sisters and Brothers:
    We wish you a most blessed Christmas Season, with all the happiness and joy that this time of year can bring as we celebrate the birth of Jesus.  May your year ahead be filled with peace, joy, and understanding that only comes from our Lord.
 
May you feel the quiet beauty of that silent, holy night
When God sent to us His only Son to fill the world with light.
May you know the peace He promised, feel His loving presence near,
And be blessed with joy at Christmas and throughout the coming year. -- Helen Steiner Rice
 
With Fraternal Love,
Joanne Clark, Worthy Grand Matron
Terry Wiggins, Worthy Grand Patron
Marjoe Richards, Associate Grand Matron
Phil Green, Associate Grand Patron
Sandra Henry, Grand Secretary
Katie Glessing, Grand Treasurer
Diane Osborne, Grand Conductress
Marge Ramsdell, Associate Grand Conductress
Connie Shrum, Grand Chaplain
Rebecca Aldrich, Grand Marshal
Janie Larson, Grand Organist
Gen Cooley, Grand Adah
Doris Edwards, Grand Ruth
Jill Okicich, Grand Esther
Pat Amdahl, Grand Martha
Betty Croft, Grand Electa
Linda Miller, Grand Warder
Roy Sharp, Grand Sentinel
 
 
 
 
PRAYERS NEEDED ... MWGP Bill Owen
 
    Hello everyone....sending along a note from our Worthy Grand Marshal in Oklahoma...this concerns our MWGP Bill Owen...please send cards to him at
6609 NW 128th Circle
Oklahoma City, OK 73142
    Hope this finds all on my list doing well...with Star Love and Bear Hugs, Linda
** Linda Hattrick, Worthy Grand Esther
* * * * * * * *
 
Dear Star Tribe:
    I just got a call from Evelina Owen saying Brother Bill had colon surgery today.  He is in ICU at Mercy Hospital and is doing fine.  They removed some upper and lower colon and found no cancer according to Evelina.
    Please keep them in your prayers.  She asked that we not send flowers or visit for a few days to give him time to recover.
Liz
 
 

 
 
 
 
MESSAGES FROM MY MAIL BOX
 
Urgent Prayer Request -
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
    I am writing to request your prayers for WGP Neil (McGill) and his family.  Over the last couple of weeks, Neil has been undergoing some tests and on Friday, met with the doctor for the results.  The report was not good.  Neil has lung cancer.  The type of cancer is called "Non-small cell Lung cancer" and has spread to both lungs and the lymph nodes.   This cancer was not present in August, but was in this month’s test.  The Dr. had no explanation of how it spread so fast, he said it is the most common type of cancer in men and not treatable with radiation.   Neil will be starting Chemo. January 2nd and he will need to be close to the medical facility for monitoring on a weekly basis and Chemo every Monday, at least through the end of February.  So, he will not be making official visitations during that time.  However, the doctor hopes that Neil will be able to have activity and travel beginning in March. 
    This is a hard time for the family, but Neil’s first thoughts were of the Eastern Star family!!!  He was hoping to work around things so that he could keep up with his commitments and travel, but that is not going to happen.  So, as I said, please keep Neil, Penny and their family in your prayers.  I know that they will help and that the family will appreciate them very much.
Star Love & IRISH Hugs,
-- Jeanine Cole, WGM
Cards of cheer and encouragement may be sent to:
Neil McGill, WGP
2608 Old Quarry Rd.
Missoula, MT 59808
    Prayers may be sent Heavenward
** Montana Stars #8-1808
 
    A note for those who may not know, Neil's wife, Penny, is Montana's Grand Esther.  Their daughter, Julie, is Associate Matron in Electa #7, Missoula, and WGP Neil is also serving as Associate Patron with her.  Please keep all of the family in your prayers.
    Due to the urgency of this prayer request it is being sent immediately rather than waiting until the usual newsletter time tonight.
---Martha
    Please, Sisters and Brothers, during all the busyness of this Christmas season, do keep Brother Neil in your thoughts and prayers!  We all know for a fact that prayers DO WORK! 
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Thank you ....
Sister Connie ...
    Thank you so much for including notice of Neal's mishap in a recent issue of the Stars of Washington. Neal & myself really appreciate it. Now, one more request... Would it be possible for you to include in your next issue the following?
 
Sisters, Brothers, & Friends;
    Neal & I appreciate all the prayers; notes; cards; phone calls; and other acts of kindness & concern you have sent/brought to us. On November 27th Neal stepped upon a bed in the basement to adjust a heat register, (something he has done many times). However, this time he fell backward on the concrete floor breaking his right femur about 3 inches below the ball joint of his hip. Surgery included placing a rod in the bone along with a couple screws to hold all in place. Things went well for about 8/9 days when his heart went out of rhythm. He spent 18 days in the hospital & all seems to be going well now. He will have an echocardiogram on Thursday. Then the long recovery should continue.
    During Neal's stay in the hospital, I guess I became tired of staying home along. Anyway, I was admitted into the hospital for a 3 day stay. Neal came home one day; I was released the next day.
    Our two daughters have been here since the day before Neal was released. They plan to alternate visits until we are stronger & somewhat back on our feet.
With the disruptions no Christmas cards have been mailed this year & I know I will never get all the thank you's written I need to do, so please forgive me for taking this way of says Merry Christmas to each of you & May God Bless you as you have blessed us. We love & appreciate everyone of you.
** Neal / Anne Hendrex, PGM
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Oasis Chapter News ...
    The January meeting of Oasis Chapter will be Wednesday, January 3, 2007.  This is a change from the printed Ode Card.
** Jean Lindberg, Secretary
 
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Friends Night at Crystal Chapter ...
    Come help us celebrate Crystal Chapters Birthday and help us Hula away the winter blues! 
Friday, January 12th at 7:30 PM. 
Bright colors or flowered shirts ... MANDATORY!
    We will be holding a raffle benefiting Hospice.  10 passes to the Museum of Flight.  Valued at $150.00.
** Judy Nielsen, Secretary
 
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Background Checks ...
    This is Tim Hall P.P. of JRT now Greenwood. Please tell your readers that the Boy Scouts of America do indeed require back ground checks on all adult volunteers not just leaders. At first I was dumbstruck when I read about the Grand Lodge of Texas' actions, now after having  more information I do believe that this is the right move.
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CYBER CHAT ... Friday, December 22, 2006 ... Cyber Chat Inbox
    Well,  we finally made it back to VA!  It only took us 5 hours to get to PA, even with all the construction going on around DC...but it too us 8 ½ to come home today!  From Maryland to DC I don’ think we went over 40 mph once! It took us 2 hours to get through DC! I could walk faster than we drove through it!  I was never so happy to pull into our driveway! Whose idea was this anyway? Oh, yea, me!  We had a nice visit and they thought it was extra special since it was so near Christmas.  Sorry I didn’t get to send out cyber chat yesterday.  By the time we got back to our hotel it was so late all I wanted to do it go to sleep.  It was a long day.  Hope all your gifts are bought and wrapped and none of you are crazy enough to travel any distance.  The highways are bumper to bumper and we saw a lot of accidents on the way.  Until tomorrow…..
Big hugs and I wish you enough…
** Dianna
 
    After reading Sister Dianna's message, I am enjoying Newport more and more!  We purchased our place in 1990 and at that time ... there was hardly ANY traffic to write home about.  One could even 'jay-walk' across the street.  Now we have a traffic light on the border of Washington and Idaho.  Oldtown, ID ... population 300+ and Newport 2.000+ warrant a traffic light to cross the border.  Hmmmm!  We also have a train track and an occasional train that travels from Newport to the northern part of the county.  We have to stop for that.  Is that considered a traffic light?  Just thought I would ask!  Dianna writes a newsletter with news for the GC of Massachusetts. 
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Amaranth News
    Please pass this information on about Jean Cubley.  She was Grand Fraternal Correspondence last year. Thank you.
** Bonnie McCroskey, Grand Sec.
    Just wanted to let you know that our member, Jeane Cubley has had declining health for the past several months.  She has had multiple symptoms including loss of appetite and energy, joint pain, jaundice,edema of the legs and numerous other problems.  The Doctors have determined that she has a severe liver problem and will require a liver transplant.  She will have this surgery at the UW.   She has been working in the Seattle area for several years now as an Emergency Room RN.  She has indicated that if she receives email, please do not expect a reply as her energy level is so low that just to do the things that are necessary takes all the energy she has. She will be going through some difficult times as she waits for a donor and has the transplant. She has had to cut out of her diet a lot of the things she enjoyed, like potato chips and other salty foods. She said she was almost afraid to ask the Doctor about chocolate, but the Doctor anticipated the question and said chocolate is okay.  She seems to have her sense of humor in tact and says she is just taking a day at a time. Because of the swelling in her legs, she has to elevate her legs most of the time.  I think she would appreciate cards and a note of encouragement and friendship. 
Would you please advise our members as I know she has many Amaranth friends.
Her address is: Jeane Cubley, 4416 176th St. SW #7, Lynnwood, WA  98037-4804. Thank You.   
-- Esther Auld, secy. Jewel of the Valley#50.. 
HI ... Please do not send e-mail to Jeane Cubley.  She has requested no e-mail be sent to her.  Thank you.
** Bonnie Mc Croskey, Grand Sec.
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Sister Barbara Mudd, OR ... Memorial Service ...
Hello Connie,
    Sister Barbara Mudd was one of my traveling companions and a sister secretary.  The official results say she passed away from a stroke.  She will be very much missed by so many of us in Oregon.
    Her memorial service will be held in Estacada, Oregon at the Odd Fellows/Rebeccah Hall at 2:00 PM on Sunday, December 17, 2006.
** Barbara Collins, Beaver #106, Beaverton, OR, Home Star #187, Forest Grove, OR (Secretary)
    Sorry this information is late, Scooter ... Got lost in the shuffle, I am afraid.  My thoughts and prayers are with Sister Barbara's family and to the Oregon OES members! 
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Something of interest ...
    The Archangel Gabriel's influence can be felt during the wintertime in many wonderful and meaningful ways. The time of Gabriel begins on the winter solstice, December 21, takes us through the winter holidays, and culminates with the spring celebration of Passover and Easter.
** -Terry Lynn Taylor, "Angel Days
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HONOR NIGHT BY CANDLE LIGHT
    The wind was wild and the lights went out.  Bill Poynor kept cooking, in the dark, on Port Orchard's gas ranges.  The only heat in the building was a gas fireplace.  The wonderful meal was Lumber Jack Beef Stew, Corn Meal Muffins, Blue Berry Muffins, Locally Baked Bread and Homemade Apple Pie.  Donations for the meal of $100.00 went our WGM and WGP Special Charity.  Orton brought a generator which provided electricity to one lamp in the refreshment room and one lamp on the altar.  Kerosene lamps and probably 100 little candles, safely lighted the stairways and other rooms.  They were provided by members and guests and placed on tables and at Officers Stations.  During introduction flash lights shined around like search lights.
    Prior to Orton's speech, Christine Krueger gave an outstanding oration on her version of a whopper of a Paul Bunyon Tale.  She is Orton and Christina's daughter, and is Associate Matron at Olympia Chapter.  There were many gifts exchanged, including a jeweled turtle to Christina.  Christina hand painted a loon on a rock for Orton.  Surprise gifts were given to Orton from his Minnesota Counterpart, Margaret Kreklau.  Orton presented the Chapter with a plaque that listed all of the Grand Representatives from Port Orchard Chapter, dating back to 1940.  Betty Poynor, PM, did an excellent job as General Chairman for this evening.
    Orton gave the following speech to nearly sixty brave souls, who ventured out in the storm to have a wonderful time:
                        MERRY CHRISTMAS
 
    When one has been having fun for two years, it is hard to know where to start.
    Minnesota is a beautiful State with 12,000 lakes.  It's name in Indian means, "Water That Reflects The Sky."  Lake Ataska is the source of the Mississippi River, and is Minnesota's oldest State Park.
    Saint Cloud, where we attended both of the last Grand Chapters, is the commercial hub of central Minnesota.
    It is filled with thousands of interesting places to go and see.  It is populated by five million gracious people, certainly among the top of these are my two Counterparts; Pat Armagost and Margaret Kreklau.  Many of you met Pat at our 2005 Grand Chapter.  Margaret was unable to get away in 2006, however she has promised to be in Yakima in 2007.
    It should be only a few weeks until I will be able to tell my relief all about her and Minnesota.
    Our family Minnesota history goes back a long ways.  Christina's great grand father, Charley Slayton, had a trading post on the Red River, which is the border between Minnesota and the Dakotas.  His family became good friends with the Chippewa Tribe.  This probably saved their lives, because they were warned to leave the area prior to a major uprising in the mid 1800's.
    My father was a lumber jack in Northern Wisconsin and Minnesota during the early 1900's.  My mother was the Post Mistress at her Uncle's general store.  There they met and the story goes on from there.  I was born in a log cabin on forty acres that my father, mother and older sisters farmed.
    Christina's family lived in Ranier Minnesota for the first years of her life.  It was there that her dad helped save an Indian princess from drowning, she lost her baby, however they took her into their home and nursed her back to health.  For years after that, when any of the Tribe would cross the river from Canada, they would bring them gifts.  Included in these was a buckskin jacket, for her dad, that Christina still has.  Her dad was an engineer that built dams and he had a boat house where he built boats.  Christina could tell you many stories.
    My Masonic history starts in the mid 1930's, when I had a very positive influence from my Uncle Lyman Freeborn.  He was a Post Master and had a general store over in Vaughn.  He helped establish John Paul Jones Lodge in Gig Harbor.  My aunt and their daughter were active in Eastern Star also.  My 3rd and 4th grade teacher Edith Gulliver, my  5th and 6th grade teacher Troy Moore and many of my junior and high school teachers were all part of the Port Orchard Masonic Family.
    I would like to tell one short story; my dad's first job in Port Orchard, was for Mister Andrew Lidstrom, an active Mason.  They lived about one half mile from us across a big canyon.  One day my mother sent me down there to give my dad a message.  Mister Lidstrom asked my dad if I was getting my milk to drink.  My dad told him that they did not have the money to buy a cow.  Mister Lidstrom told my dad to pick out one of his cows today and take it home with him.  His Grand son Gary Lidstrom, a new Mason, has just become an Officer in our Masonic Lodge.
    I was a charter member of Port Orchard's DeMoLay and joined Port Orchard Masonic Lodge and Eastern Star Chapter, when the U. S. Navy let me settle down after twenty years all over the world.
    I can never pay back all that the Masonic Family has done for me and my family
    Orton acknowledged all of the Masonic Family Groups that he and Christina had been a part of.
    Responses were given by:
        WGM JoAnne Clark
        PGM Marilyn Hoots
        Grand Secretary Sandra Henry
        Grand Representative Ron Amdahl
** Orton Krueger, GR of MN in WA
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Letter to Orton Kruger, Grand Representative of MN in WA ... from his daughter ...
 Here is the Paul Bunyan letter I wrote for Dad.
    A Letter from Paul Bunyan
>From somewhere in the deep woods of northern Minnesota

December 1, 2006

Dear Orton,
    I am sorry to say that I will not be able to attend your Minnesota Grand Representative Honor Night.  It sounds like it will be a real fine affair!
    Now I don't suppose you would remember meeting me, what with you just a youngin' in your Mama's arms.  You see the boys and me were working in the woods near Rainy Lake when I heard your Dad, Otto, had himself a fine baby boy.  Well, wouldn't you know it, we just happen to finish the patch of wood we were cutting and decided to try our hand in the Upper Peninsula and pay a visit to your folks on the way.  And frankly, just between you and me, I wanted your Dad back on my crew as he was one of the best foremen I ever work with.
    When we showed up at your folks' place they were going around and around about what to name you.  They had settled on your front name, before we had arrived as they just they both really liked your Uncle Orton.  But they couldn't settle on you second name.  Your Mama said she wasn't settling you with one or those German names, like William, Carl, and Fredrick.  Well, I couldn't see that fine couple get into a fight over such, so I spoke right up, trying to change the subject, and said, "Now, Anna look at this real nice forest glen you and Otto are livin' in."  Anna stopped me right there and said that's the name I want for this boy. Your Dad said, "What, Forest?"  "No," she says "Glen."  Well your Dad said that was just fine with him.  And so, now you know how you got named.
    I also want to congratulate you and Christina on 55 years of married life.  I bet neither one of you knew I once crossed paths with her Great Great Great Grandfather Charlie Slayton.  I didn't mix too much with those Slayton boys as they were into fur tradin'.  I heard tell Charlie and his bunch settled in central Minnesota for a bit, and then a few years later had to high tail it back to Wisconsin.  Something about an Indian upraisin'.  I was a youngin' myself in those days so only heard about it second hand.
    I want you to know I really thought and thought about coming out to Washington, but then one of the boys reminded me about the ruckus Babe and I caused the last time we were out loggin' your way.  And actually I think it was more Babe's fault, what with being such a stubborn old ox and all.  Now, I suppose you are wondering what would cause me to be so concerned, 'cuz generally I don't mind that the boys and me go and have a bit of fun.  So I guess I had better come clean, and tell you what all the fuss is about.
    In my younger years, back when I was new to all this lumberjacking business me and Babe traveled out the Pacific Northwest.  You see, the me and the boys had heard about these huge fir trees.  Some fellas that had been out that way said those tree trunks were bigger around than even I could reach.  Now I tell you now, just like then, my arm span from finger tip to finger tip is going on about 20 feet, so I figured these fellas were fibbing me somethin' awful.  Well, some of the boys got talking and decided to go see for themselves, and naturally me and Babe had to go along.
    We all arrived out west to the flattest biggest straightest river I have ever seen.  That river flowed straight from the Rockies to the Pacific Ocean, and the land was thick with house size fir and pine trees from shore to shore as far as the eye could see.  The only mountains we saw were about six or seven of them volcanoes.  Well, me and the boys figured we could float those logs down that big river, form a barge, and take it down the coast to a mill in California.  The plan went pretty good, and we even talked a few of those California fellas into opening a mill at the mouth of that big river.
    We were really going great guns, having cleared about half the trees, when Babe decided to play hide and seek with me and the boys.  We got to wrestlin' among those volcanoes, playing in the river, and stirrin' up several rock and dirt piles before we were done.  Well, Babe he likes his fun and we had just had a rip roarin' great time!  And I got just plum tuckered out.  That is the only excuse I have for what happened next, 'cuz you see I looked over at Babe and thought he was dead.  Now in that state of mind I figured I had just created one big mess and I just couldn't see leaving Babe lying out there to add to it.  So I dug a big hole to bury him in and I could hardly see straight as I'm blubbering so bad I filled the hole up.  Well, all the sudden I feel this thick tongue licking my ear, and I said, "Babe you're not dead after all."  Well, I started to fill in that big hole when one of the boys yells and says that there's no time for that and we better get out of there right now.
    You see, one of the boys had spotted Mr. Weyerhauser and I guess you could say he wasn't none to happy with that mess we made.  We hadn't finished the job, as about half of the trees were left to log.  But just looking at his face told us to high tail it out of there.  Mr. Weyerhauser wanted to put in a railroad and we had just made that job of his a lot harder to do.
    The end of the story, I heard tell 'cuz to tell you the truth me and Babe didn't stop 'til we were back in the deep woods of Minnesota, was that someone called the piles of dirt and rock we left the Cascade Mountains, the supposed burial plot for Babe the Puget Sound, and the big straight river that we put some tremendous curves into the Columbia.
    So you tell those fine sisters and brothers "Hello" from me and Babe.  And we hope you all will come visit me and the boys up north in the deep woods real soon.
    All my best,  Paul Bunyan, Logger--
** Chris Krueger
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Christmas Past
    At Chapter last week instead of preparing a program for Good of the Order, I asked everyone to share a memory of Christmas and the first story was by a Sister who told us:
    "My husband was a little robust, and every year he would don the red suit and play Santa in the small town in Oregon where they lived for years. After one little boy had been on Santa's lap he went to his Mother and said to her" That is NOT Santa, it is Bob because he has his Mason ring on!"
    Merry Christmas to one and all.
Star love
** Kay Ernst, WM , PM x 2, Star Chapter 69, Ontario, OR GGC
 
    Reminds me of the time when Ted played Santa at a NCO - Officers Christmas Party ... I believe it was in L.A when we were stationed there.  (Time passes fast when you're having fun!)  Or maybe at Edwards AFB!  Doesn't matter!  Anyway, Ted had gone to the Mattel Toy Company and asked if they ever contributed toys to children's Christmas parties. They said yes ... and filled up a box car full of toys!  That is right!  A BOX CAR LOAD!  They were distributed to every needy child in LA and all points nearby, including Tijuana ... plus to the Military Party that Ted instigated.  Ted had a committee to wrap the gifts and decide on what age children received what toys!  Our daughter Teresa (age 3) fell in the age group to receive a BOOK!  Oh, Ted so wanted to be able to give her a doll or something 'cool'!  But the day of the party, Teresa climbed up on his (Santa's) lap, answered the questions that he asked ... and when he gave her the book, she said:  'Thank you Daddy!' and gave him a hug!  She enjoyed the book, but as I recall, the REAL Santa brought her a doll that Christmas! 
 
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Christmas memories ... 
    I think we all think back and remember our love ones this time of year.
    My favorite memories were our Christmas Eve's. First we'd eat at my mom's and then Fred (my husband) would get dressed as Santa. He would play Santa all night for friends. (I mean all night, we wouldn't get home till after 11 pm.) Then we lost Mom, but we'd still did the Santa run but now the kids and I would wait in the car, watching the Christmas specials on a portable TV.   Our Christmas dinner would be sandwiches from a convience store. Usually the only thing open on
Christmas Eve. It really is a great memory. You could hear the kids squealing when Santa entered the house and see all the cameras flashing. Many times the reindeer would get a plate of treats too. When Fred died, our son, Mark said the we should put in the 'obit' that Santa died. We thought that might be too shocking for the kids but at the funeral many young people came up to us and told us of their memory of those Christmas Eve's. We miss that fun time but the
memories are so sweet. We sure had fun and we still laugh about them. Now we're starting new memories.
    Merry Christmas to all and good memories.
** Jan Ziegler, PM, Crookston Chapter #147, Crookston, MN GGC
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Christmas birthday memories ..
    My Birthday is 12/20. Looks like I am in good company!  I keep threatening to change it to 6/20 since these days it always seems gets lost in the Christmas rush!
    I have wonderful memories of my mother always making my birthday special.
    She always gave me a party, always got me new jammies and usually a new doll, my favorite gift! She always set up our Christmas tree on my birthday and I would lie under the tree that night, in my new soft flannel jammies, playing with the little village that she set under the tree and pretending my new doll lived there. Those magical nights are so fresh in my mind. My gifts were always wrapped in birthday paper, and she never used Christmas colors on my cake! As an adult, she would call me bright and early on my birthday to sing happy birthday to me, and oh how I miss that call!
    Mom has been gone for 21 years now, but her birthday was Christmas Day. I remember when she turned 50, and we threw her a surprise birthday party, decorated the house in pastels, had a pastel cake and devoted the entire day to her! Little did we know we'd only have her for 5 more Christmas/Birthdays. (She was a member of Eastern Star!)
    Every year around this time, I allow myself a few quiet moments to shed a tear or two, and then I smile as I recall the many special memories my mother made for me that I treasure. Because of my mother, the sights, sounds and smells of Christmas are all extra sweet. 
    I think I just might go out and get me some new flannel jammies and a doll and go lay under the tree on the 20th!!! 
    To my Sisters and Brothers with December Birthdays...I wish you all the Joys of a Holiday Birthday!
** Linda Kral, Conductress, Roswell #10, Roswell, NM GGC
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Address correction
    Connie, in your next Stars of Washington, will you please make a note and add to the stars my new address: 
Robin Erickson
2616 70th Ave West Apt B
University Place WA 98466
#253-756-9123
 Thank you...
** Robin Erickson Associate Conductress, Tacoma Chapter #126
 

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To quote Martin Luther King, Jr ...
    Life's most urgent question is: what are you doing for others?
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News of Rada Uphus Chapter O.E.S. #208 Bothell Washington
     As we closed out December with our stated meeting on December 5th plans were being processed for the January meeting to be held on January 2, 2007.  The December meeting was short and I wish to thank our present Worthy Matron in public for the gifts received by all officers and for a very enjoyable year.  Christmas Carols were song and a good time was had by all.  It being the Christmas Season the Worthy Matron true to her word said the meeting would be short so time could be spent with families.  The meeting was over and refreshments finished by 9:30.  To Sister Vera it was great news to hear your son would be home from Iraq prior to Christmas and all present agree that you did not belong at the meeting as your family was more important.  Now for the upcoming news.              January 2nd though early in the year will be men's night and the Associate Patron and Sentinel will be supplying refreshments.  It is also sweatshirt night some come casual join in the fun and have a good time sharing you news. Also meet new friends and renew old friendships as we all start on a new years journey.
** Vincent DiGiulio, Past Patron /  Present Sentinel
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
Western Washington Grand Representative Sunshine Report (12/9/06)

 

  1. Update on Ann Runger, former Grand Representative of Mississippi.  Ann shattered her left arm between the shoulder and elbow when she fell.  She is home from the hospital now.
  2. Earl Tanneberg, former Grand Representative of Wyoming, fell this past week and broke his hip and shoulder.  He has had surgery and is recuperating.  He is in Memorial Hospital, Room 524, 2811 Tieton Drive, Yakima 98902.
  3. Bill Saunders, former Grand Representative of Minnesota, was in an accident while moving some equipment and broke 3 vertebrae in his neck a couple of months ago.  He spent a month in the hospital and is now home recuperating with a neck brace.
  4. Dodie Pierce, former Grand Representative of Wyoming, had surgery on December 8th at Swedish Hospital to remove an aortic aneurysm.  She is doing well and will be in ICU for about 3 days.
** GR Happenings

 

- - - - - -  - - - - - -
 
Great Site ...
    This is one site you should email out to all your friends for Christmas.  It takes no time to download ... AND ... it really says what Christmas is all about.  Good one for the kids to watch too ... if you have some around the computer.  http://holidays.blastcomm.com:80/holidays03.html
** Shared by Laurel Wadley
 - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
Favorite Christmas Eve website ...
    Here's our favorite site for Christmas Eve. Although the actual eve is not until Sunday, you still might want to check out your options to track the jolly old elf.
    The Norad Tracks Santa Website is available in English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian and Japanese to allow varying parts of the world to know exactly where Santa is as he winds his way around to all the good little girls and boys. Tracking is made possible by the NORAD radar system called the North Warning System.
    Here's your chance to make sure that you have everything set up just right for Christmas Eve. You'll have access to classified information about this nocturnal visitor, from the amount of cookies that he has eaten, how he gets down the chimney, to pictures of him from past Christmases. This is a fun web site to help you enjoy Christmas with your small children and grandchildren, or just for your own information if you don't have little ones around the house!
http://www.noradsanta.org/index.php
    Have Fun!!
** Richard LaFlame
 

- - - - - - - - - -

 
Angels ...
 
 
 
 
 

- 'Tis midnight, and from the heavenly plains
Is borne the song that angels know;
Unheard by mortals are the strains
That sweetly soothe the Savior's woe.
 

-William B. Tappan,"'Tis Midnight, and on Olive’s Brow
 
 
Decorate A Birds’ Christmas Tree
 
    A fun family project during the holiday season is to decorate an outside Christmas tree for the birds. This is a custom dating back to the sixteenth century in northern Europe, where people honored the birds and beasts of the Nativity.
    Use a living tree, preferably a conifer, near the house, and viewable through a window, so that the birds can be watched from inside as they enjoy the goodies.
    Decorations depend on the creativity of the decorators. My bird Christmas tree is usually decorated with peanuts (in the shell), chunks of suet, popcorn, marshmallows, doughnuts, chunks of fruit, and cranberries. These are threaded on a string with a large needle, and draped on the tree like garland.
    Other decorations may include individual items hung from the boughs of the tree like ornaments, such as bird cupcakes made of rendered beef suet, bird seeds, corn meal and peanut butter. Others may be cups of dried fruit, such as raisins and cranberries or nuts. A doughnut or pine cone dipped in rendered suet, and then covered with birdseed, and hung from a red bow, makes an attractive decoration. Red or yellow apples, hung on a bough from their stems by a red bow, form colorful Christmas tree balls.
    Expect a variety of birds to come to your holiday feast, including woodpeckers for the suet, finches for the seeds, jays for the nuts, and waxwings and mockingbirds for the berries.
-- George H. Harrison

- - - - - - - - - - -

 

Old Christmas Trees Make New Bird Cover
 
    Instead of discarding the family Christmas tree this year, turn it into cover for the birds. The life of the festive tree can be extended for several more months by taking it outside and laying it down or propping it up near or next to a bird feeder. In a matter of minutes, the old Christmas tree is providing new natural cover for the birds.
    Every New Year’s, after undecorating our Christmas tree, I drag it outside and anchor it upright behind a low tray feeder just outside the sunroom where we eat breakfast and lunch everyday during the winter. The addition of the tree as cover behind the tray feeder immediately increases the number and kinds of birds that feed at the tray. In addition to the usual ground feeders, such as dark-eyed juncos and American tree sparrows, the Christmas tree cover attracts chickadees, nuthatches, northern cardinals and mourning doves. One year, we had a bobwhite use the feeder, and during other winters, ring-necked pheasants and wild turkeys visited.
    If I want more cover than my one Christmas tree offers, I have gathered up and used the discarded Christmas trees of my neighbors, who have left their past glories at the curb to be picked up by the garbage man.
    One year, I was late removing the Christmas tree in the spring, and an American robin built a nest in its rusty red boughs, and raised four youngsters.
-- George H. Harrison
 

 

 

DECEMBER MASONIC FAMILY CALENDAR ....
  • December 25 ...  MERRY CHRISTMAS

  • December 27 ... GL:  Installation of Officers of Steilacoom Lodge, No. 2, 7:30 PM.

  • December 31 ... NEW YEARS EVE!

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. 

 
 
 
INVITATION
 
Come aboard - Noah's Ark - to share an afternoon with
Mount Baker Chapter No. 50
as we honor the Station of Warder
and our very special member
 
LINDA MILLER, Grand Warder
Grand Chapter of Washington, Order of the Eastern Star
 
Saturday, January 6, 2007; 1:30 PM
Hillcrest Park Lodge
1717 S. 13th Street
Mount Vernon, Washington
NOTE:  No dressing room available
 
Special Invitation to:
Heritage Grand Family
Chapter Warders
Past Grand Warders
All current and former Grand Representatives
Aplet Deputy Instructors
All current and former Deputy Instructors
Worthy Matrons & Worthy Patrons -
1986-87 ~ 1995-96 ~ 1998-99 ~ 2001-02 ~ 2005-06
Members of Oasis and Mount Baker Chapters and
all Eastern Star Friends
 
 
CHRISTMAS QUIZ
(answers in the normal place ... after my signature)
SONG FUN ... the following are Christmas songs ... and two songs will be repeated as an answer. 
  1. 5 PM to 6 AM without noise. ______________________
  2. Nocturnal Noiselessness. _________________________
  3. Ancient Benevolent. _____________________________
  4. Adorn the vestibule. _____________________________
  5. Exuberance directed to the planet. _________________________
  6. Listen, aerial spirits harmonizing. ___________________________
  7. Give attention to the melodious celestial beings. _______________________
  8. Monarchial Triad. ___________________________
  9. Far off in a feeder. _________________________
  10. Loyal followers advance. __________________________
  11. Hallowed post meridian. _______________________________
  12. Fantasies of a colorless Dec. 25. ____________________________
  13. Tin Tintinnabulums. ___________________________________
  14. The dozen festive 24 hour Yule periods. _______________________
  15. Arrival Time:  2400 hours - Weather:  cloudless. ______________________
  16. Homo sapien of crystallized vapor. _________________________________
  17. Perambulating through a December solstice fantasy. _______________________
  18. Aloft on the acme of the abode. __________________________
  19. Bleached Yule. _____________________________
  20. Bantam Male Percussionist. ________________________
  21. Jehovah Deactivate Blithe Chevaliers. ________________________
  22. Red man en route to Borough. _________________________
  23. Frozen Precipitation commence. ____________________________
  24. Proceed and enlighten on the pinnacle. ____________________________
  25. Query regarding identity of descendant. _________________________
    This quiz was given to us at the Fire Protection District #4 Christmas Party.  Good thing I was sitting by a YOUNG doctor!  It seems that the younger you were ... the better you were.  She helped me out ... and she won the prize!!! 
 
 
MINUTE MAN AWARDS
 
    WGM Joanne Clark is honoring the Masons at the Official Visits this year.  She is selecting a Mason from a list given to her form the Worthy Matrons of each Chapter.  They will be called the "Minuteman" to go along with her patriotic theme. To qualify for the award, the Mason must be a 10 year member of Eastern Star, have served as Worthy Patron in the Chapter, and been active in the Chapter.  The pins are beautiful and were purchased from Dave Hattrick of ID, now residing for a spell in AZ.
    So let's give these outstanding Masons some credit for all their work they do for our beautiful Order!  I will need some help here so please let me know who has been given this award in your Chapter during the Official Visit. 
(For July, August, September and October ... please check in the archives on Connie's Corner on the GC of WA's website ... www.washingtonoes.org.  - the last list published in its entirety was in issue #6-052.)
 

 

NOVEMBER:

Evening Star ... Phil Krause    Grand Coulee Dam ... David Marrs       

Pacific ... Art Herring     Welcome ... Robert Shaw

Waitsburg

Alki
Faith
Maple Leaf
 
DECEMBER:

Everett ... Bliss Settergreen        Bethel ... Frank Pascoe  

Tyler

Corinthian

 

    I need some help here on filling in the missing names ... How about sending me the news??
 
 
HOLIDAY EATING TIPS
 
(Received this from our youngest son ... but I know that our WGP has related this at a function we were all at recently ... I believe at WWGR?  Just know that I enjoyed and am hoping you will, too!  With a diet like this ... I wonder if my clothes will fit on 1 January!)
  1. Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots on a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the Christmas spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave immediately. Go next door, where they're serving rum balls.
  2. Drink as much eggnog as you can. And quickly. Like fine single-malt scotch, it's rare. In fact, it's even rarer than single-malt scotch. You can't find it any other time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares that it has 10,000 calories in every sip? It's not as if you're going to turn into an eggnog-alcoholic or something. It's a treat. Enjoy it. Have one for me. Have two. It's later than you think. It's Christmas!
  3. If something comes with gravy, use it. That's the whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand alone. Pour it on. Make a volcano out of your mashed potatoes. Fill it with gravy. Eat the volcano. Repeat.
  4. As for mashed potatoes, always ask if they're made with skim milk or whole milk. If it's skim, pass. Why bother? It's like buying a sports  car with an automatic transmission.
  5. Do not have a snack before going to a party in an effort to control your eating. The whole point of going to a Christmas party is to eat other people's food for free. Lots of it. Hello?
  6. Under no circumstances should you exercise between now and New Year's. You can do that in January when you have nothing else to do. This is the time for long naps, which you'll need after circling the buffet table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food and that vat of eggnog.
  7. If you come across something really good at a buffet table, like frosted Christmas cookies in the shape and size of Santa, position yourself near them and don't budge. Have as many as you can before becoming the center of attention. They're like a beautiful pair of shoes. If you leave them behind, you're never going to see them again.
  8. Same for pies. Apple. Pumpkin. Mincemeat. Have a slice of each. Or if you don't like mincemeat, have two apples and one pumpkin. Always have three. When else do you get to have more than one dessert? Labor Day?
  9. Did someone mention fruitcake? Granted, it's loaded with the mandatory celebratory calories, but avoid it at all cost. I mean, have some standards.
  10. One final tip: If you don't feel terrible when you leave the party or get up from the table, you haven't been paying attention. Re-read tips; start over, but hurry, January is just around the corner. Remember this motto to live by: "Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, martini in the other, body  thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO HOO what a ride!"   Have a Great Holiday Season!
 
Reindeer: The Truth Behind the Legend
 
    Each Christmas season we hear the stories of the eight tiny, flying reindeer that pull Santa's sleigh all over the world in one night. But what made Santa choose reindeer to help him accomplish this feat? Wouldn't elephants, with their huge flappable ears, make a better choice? Okay, there's the weight factor, but what else makes reindeer the right choice for the jolly North Pole toymaker on his annual voyage? Read on to learn some of the secrets of the world's most famous deer.

Are Reindeer for Real?
    While Prancer and Dancer and the gang are the stuff of legend, reindeer are not. These large deer live in northerly climes, in North America, Europe, Asia, and the Arctic. In Eurasia (and the North Pole) they are called reindeer and in North America more commonly caribou, but they are all the same species. The wild herds of Alaska and Canada are known for their mass migrations, while large numbers of those in Eurasia are domesticated, raised for fur, meat, milk, and as work animals. Whether you call them reindeer or caribou, one thing is certain: they are physically well suited to pull a sleigh full of toys and a right jolly old elf.

Questions and Antlers
    We've seen the pictures and we know that Santa's reindeer -- Dasher and Dancer and Blitzen and the rest -- sport antlers. Does this mean that all of them (even Vixen?) are males? Not exactly -- in fact, it almost means the opposite. Reindeer and caribou are unique among deer in that the females grow antlers, too. And even more interesting is the fact that the females retain their antlers from one spring till the next, while mature males shed their antlers in the fall -- and are unadorned on Christmas Eve. So the creatures that pull Santa's sleigh must be females or youngsters. Of course, it's entirely possible that a male reindeer with the power to fly also has the power to keep his antlers through the holidays.

All-Terrain Feet
    The all-terrain vehicle enables humans to traverse rough, muddy, snowy, or icy terrain. The caribou or reindeer has it beat: it has an all-terrain foot. The animal's remarkable hoof actually adapts itself to the season -- becoming a sort of ice skate in the winter and sneaker in spring. The caribou of North America can run at speeds of almost 50 miles per hour and may travel 3,000 miles in a year. Luckily, the animal is helped along by its amazingly adaptable footpads. In the summer, when the tundra is soft and wet, the footpads become spongy like the soles of tennis shoes and provide extra traction. In the winter, when snow and ice coat the North, the pads shrink and firm up, while the rim of the hoof, like an ice skate's blade, bites into the ice and crusted snow to keep the animal from slipping. Sounds like the perfect footwear for an animal that needs to come to a flying stop on an ice-encrusted rooftop in the dark of the night!

Fur Float
    Given its geographic preferences, a reindeer has to have a pretty warm coat. In fact, the coat has two layers of fur, a dense woolly undercoat and longer-haired overcoat. The outer coat consists of hollow, air-filled hairs that give the animal such buoyancy when it enters water that only the lower two-thirds of its body submerges. A caribou or reindeer swims with ease and good speed, and migrating herds will not hesitate to swim across a large lake or broad river. If Santa ever decides to take to the seas rather than the air, he is in good hands!
** Wildlife Online
 

 

 
 
Beneath the Tinsel ... Real or artificial?
 
    Once again it's time to ponder that age-old question. But choosing a Christmas tree involves more than aesthetic and economic concerns. There's an ethical dimension, too: Which type of tree is best from an environmental standpoint? 
    Artificial trees were a good choice when they first came on the scene. Reusable and clean, these trees offered a decent alternative to real trees harvested from a forest. Artificial trees are expensive, but they're reusable, too. The main problem with them is that they're made from petroleum-based products that eventually end up in our landfills. Also, the harvesting of real trees has changed considerably in the last few decades. 
    The real trees cut and sold today at tree lots are almost exclusively grown on Christmas tree farms. These farms generally utilize land that can't be used for other agricultural purposes. Because the trees are harvested at an average of eight years of age, a tree farmer harvests only 10 to 20 percent of the crop each year in order to insure a sustained yield. Thus most of the land on a tree farm is covered with small trees, like an early-succession forest, which supports a great variety of wildlife. 
    Another advantage of real trees is that they can be recycled as mulch or chips after the holidays. In fact, most communities now offer tree recycling programs. An alternative method of recycling a tree is to add it to a corner of the yard to serve as wildlife cover and habitat for creatures that like brush piles and decaying wood. 
    A third option is to use a living tree. It's the most ecologically correct solution to the Christmas tree problem, but it's also the most difficult to carry out. 
    Living evergreen trees are sold in planters or with their root balls wrapped in burlap. With proper care, one of these trees can be reused for several years or transplanted outdoors after the holidays. The problem is that many living trees can't handle the transition from outdoors to indoors and then back outdoors at this time of year. An outdoor tree has adjusted its physiology to cope with winter conditions; coming inside to a dry, warm environment is a tremendous shock. 
    One way to help minimize the shock is to let the tree acclimate for a week in the garage and then keep it in the house for only seven to ten days. As a further precaution, some experts recommend treating the foliage with a chemical that minimizes water loss through the needles.
    So which kind of tree is best for the environment? If you live in a climate where your indoor temperatures aren't drastically different from those outside, and you're willing to limit the number of days the tree is inside, give a living tree a chance. If you use a cut tree, be sure to recycle it properly. And if you opt for an artificial tree, take good care of it so it will last as long as possible.
** Wildlife Online
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
BLUE LODGE AGENDAS
 
 

FRANK S. LAND LODGE NO. 313

December 30:  Holiday Party.
 
 
If you wish to have your Blue Lodge Agenda in this section, please let me know!)
 
 
 
 
 
MASONIC NEWS ...
 
News of the GL of CO
 
 
 
    Valerie Grundvig, Grand Secretary, asked me to send the following information regarding the Grand Lodge Sessions which will be held in Grand Junction January 26-27:
    The Grand Lodge of AF & AM of Colorado
Requests the honor our your presence
At the Installation of Officers
Friday, January 26, 2007
At 5:00 o'clock p.m.
Doubletree Hotel
743 Horizon Drive
Grand Junction, Colorado 81506
----------------------------------------

Grand Lodge All Masonic Banquet
Friday, January 26, 2007
6:30pm - No Host Social Hour
7:00 pm - All Masonic Banquet
Choice of Entrée: Halibut or Prime Rib
Cost: $30 per plate
Reservations Due: January 5, 2007
Mail your check to:
The Grand Lodge of Colorado
1130 Panorama Drive
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
--------------------------------------------

To reserve your guest rooms and receive the special rate of $82/night,
Cut Off for Reservations is December 24
Direct: 970-241-8888 or 800-460-1488

Doubletree Hotel
743 Horizon Drive
Grand Junction CO 81506
--------------------------------------------
** Russ Mason, Collins #26, Fort Collins
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
Fellowship Chapter #61 R.A.M. 
    Fellowship Chapter once again as in the past ended the calendar year with a Children's Christmas Party in honor of all the families we have helped through the Royal Arch Masons Children Heart Foundation.  This years event was help in partnership with the Stated Communication of the Chapter on December 12th at Ashler Masonic Center in Bothell.   There were several families present ranging in age from our newest applicant to one of our most senior participants who brought her children along to let we as Royal Arch Masons see first hand what our support and work has done for the community.  In attendance were many representatives of the different Masonic Bodies that meet in Bothell along with a special appearance by that well know lover of children and giver of gifts Santa Claus.  The event as in the past caps off a year of brotherhood and fellowship to which we can all be proud.  Our January meeting will kick off the planning for the summer BBQ and remainder of this years activities as we head into a new year and new goals.  So to all those interested in Royal Arch Masonry come by on the 2nd Tuesday of January and meet with some of the Royal Arch Companions and see if this is the type of organization you may want to be come a part of.  We have a pre-meeting dinner starting at 6:30 where we socialize and enjoy each others company.  The ladies and guest are invited to join us for dinner.  Our meetings are usually short business meetings with the emphasis being place on fellowship both before the meeting at dinner and following the meeting at refreshment. So if Interested I look forward to meeting you on the 9th of January.
Fraternally
** VEC Vincent DiGiulio Scribe , Fellowship Chapter #61 R.A.M.

Special Announcement:   Royal Arch News and Educational Program
    Attention all Royal Arch Masons and those seeking information on the Degrees of Royal Arch!!!
    Monday January 29, 2007 Royal Arch Districts 7, 8, and 16 will be hosting an educational program on topics related to the Royal Arch Degrees.  The program will be held at University Lodge in Seattle with a light dinner being prepared for 6:30 PM.  Ideas for the program are being formulated at this time and any suggestions for topics or ideas for speakers will be greatly appreciated.  If you have ideas to share contact VEC Al Luberts Deputy for District 16, VEC Vinny DiGiulio Deputy for District 8 and VEC Doug Hoggatt Deputy in District 7.  Also please r.s.v.p. if you plan on attending to any of the above listed Deputies no later than January 22nd so that sufficient food for dinner and refreshments can be purchased.
** Vinny DiGiulio
- - - - - - - - - - - -
 
News from CHIP's
     Well last month I promised pictures of the event t St Andrews in Renton well here they are.  Also REP's and REN has asked that we participate at their January event to be held at Bellevue Community College on Monday January 15th.  It is through REP's and REN that we have been able to make contact with several different Radio and TV Celebrities as we jointly work with them to create either a Celebrity Tennis or Golf Tournament to raise funds for CHIP's Also it is a new year and we are preparing for CHIP's events for public participation.  Any ideas and suggestions will be greatly appreciated.  Also any ides or suggestions for fund raising events will be appreciated.  Now for some good news to-date we have had in excess of 8,300 participants whom were present ID kits.  The youngest is still 17 days and the oldest is still 91 years.
** Vinny DiGiulio
 

 

 True or False: Is Mistletoe the "Kiss of Death?"

 
    There is a myth about American Mistletoe, the green-berried parasitic plant often hung in doorways during the holiday season to elicit kisses from those standing beneath it. Reputed to be the "kiss of death," it is said to be so poisonous that humans can be killed if they ingest the leaves or berries. This myth has been endlessly repeated throughout the years, reappearing every December in countless holiday safety reports on television and in print.
    Is it true? Is American Mistletoe (Phoradendron species), a holiday killer? Two physicians and researchers from Pittsburgh decided to find out. Dr. Edward P. Krenzelok (Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh) and Dr. Terry Jacobson (Carnegie Mellon University) examined data from the American Association of Poison Control Centers and found 1,754 reports of mistletoe exposure over a seven-year span. Curiously, not only had no one died of mistletoe poisoning, in the overwhelming majority of the cases (approximately 90 percent), the patient experienced no effects at all. Those patients who did have effects suffered only minor discomfort. Treatment at a poison control center or at home made no discernible difference in patients' recovery or outcome.
    Most mistletoe ingestion is reported in children, often those under two, who finding a couple of berries or leaves that have dropped to the floor will put them in their mouths. Drs. Krenzelok and Jacobson found that such exposure was not dangerous, and that the children could be observed and treated for poisoning symptoms, such as nausea or diarrhea, at home. They suggest that parents call their local poison control center and follow the advice given. The study did not indicate whether ingestion of large quantities of mistletoe might be more toxic, nor did it address the degree of exposure that might be toxic in pets (who might be inclined to eat a larger quantity than a child). 
    Causing at most only minor discomfort, American Mistletoe does not seem to have earned its reputation as the "kiss of death." Its European cousin, Viscum album, sometimes used in herbal remedies, is more toxic, but is not sold commercially in North America and is thus rarely encountered.
** Wildlife Federation

 

 
 
LOWRY'S HINTS
 
 

HINT 1 :   There are two ways to prepare a turkey for cooking.  The first way; and I think is the traditional way, is to remember to take the Giblets and neck out of their cavities (this may sound stupid but I have known people to bake the turkey with the bag of Giblets in tact). OOPS I forgot!!! Next wash the  
turkey inside and out, then pull the skin away from the breast and shove butter under the skin, and rub a little butter on the skin. this will keep it moist on the inside and crisp on the outside. Add a little water (about an inch) because the turkey will produce it's own juices too, so you will have plenty to make the gravy.  

        * * * * * * * * * *
HINT 2   Marinate First!  Marinades are seasoned liquids in which the turkey is soaked both to absorb flavor and to tenderize.   Most marinades contain an acid such as vinegar, citrus juice, wine and herbs or spices. One of the easiest ways to marinate a turkey is by using a needle-like injector.  Injectors can be purchased at kitchen supply stores and range in price from $10 to $15.
    To marinate a turkey without an injector, simply use a fork to make random holes over the entire bird. Place the turkey in a large, plastic cooking bag or foodservice grade plastic bag, pour in the marinade, close the bag securely and let it marinate overnight. Turkey should always be marinated in the refrigerator. Before cooking,  be sure to scrape off excess marinade and discard. Do NOT re-use marinade to baste the turkey.  
 

Herb Marinade  
1/2 cup canola oil  
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar  
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh marjoram  
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme  
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh sage  
1/2 tsp. salt  
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper  
10-pound whole turkey, cleaned and drained well  
1. Combine the oil, vinegar, herbs and seasonings together in a small bowl. Place the turkey in a large, plastic  cooking bag.  
2. Add marinade, close bag securely and allow to marinate in the refrigerator for several hours.  
3. Oven roast or deep fry according to the National Turkey Federation recommendations.

        * * * * * * * * * *

HINT 3: Homemade Jewelry Cleaners.  Diamonds ... Cleaning tip.  Immerse in rubbing alcohol or a a mixture of equal parts ammonia and cold water for a few minutes.  Gently clean with a soft-bristled brush (such as a toothbrush).  Rinse, then lay on a tissue to dry.  Store diamonds individually to prevent them from scratching other diamonds, softer gems or gold.     
        * * * * * * * * * *

HINT 4:  Silver Jewelry....   To quickly clean silver jewelry, place it in a bowl of water with an antacid tablet for a few minutes.

        * * * * * * * * * *

HINT 5:  Energy Saving Tips  
1. Buy a new fridge that is the right size for your needs to avoid wasting energy cooling nothing.  
2. Use a microwave or toaster oven to cook small portions and a conventional oven or stove-top for larger items.   
3. A watched pot will eventually boil-but putting a lid on it reduces cooking time and energy use. Also, match the pot size to burner size to avoid energy waste. 

 

 
RECIPES
 

Bacon-Broccoli Cheese Ball
>From Country Woman

Meet the Cook: Needing a quick appetizer one night when dinner was running late, I combined a few leftovers into this easy cheese ball. For variety, you can shape it into a log, or substitute favorite herbs for the pepper. My husband and I are the proud parents of two children, Kenton, 6, and Katie, 4. -Tamara Rickard, Bartlett, Tennessee

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1 cup (4 ounces) finely shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 cup finely chopped broccoli florets
6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
Assorted crackers

DIRECTIONS:  In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, cheddar cheese and pepper until blended. Stir in broccoli. Shape into a ball and roll in bacon. Cover and refrigerate.
Remove from the refrigerator 15 minutes before serving. Serve with crackers. Yield: 2-1/2 cups.  Serves 20!