STARS OF WASHINGTON
 
December 14th, 2007
#7-050
 

Count your blessings instead of your crosses;
Count your gains instead of your losses.
Count your joys instead of your woes;
Count your friends instead of your foes.
Count your smiles instead of your tears;
Count your courage instead of your fears.
Count your full years instead of your lean;
Count your kind deeds instead of your mean.
Count your health instead of your wealth;
Count on God instead of yourself.

** Shared by Debbie Keck

 


 

PASSING OF PGM KAY SMITH

 

Dear Connie,

    As you probably know P.G.M. Kay passed away yesterday (12/7) at 6:10 A.M. with me at her side.  You never know how much you love some one until this happens.

The memorial services will be at 11 A.M. at the Federated Church here in Waterville, December 21st.

    The cards are pouring in and our family thanks all as we realize how all loved her.

** Jim Smith

Our heart-felt sympathies go out to you and your family, Brother Jim. 
 
She has whispered her last farewell,
and entered the Chapter above
And there 'neath the smile of the Savior,
Will finish her labor of love.
 
CARDS:
P. O. Box 217
Waterville, WA 98858-0217
 

 


 

 

 

Worthy Grand Patron Phil's History of OES

 

Quoting Brother Phil:    Many of you know that I am a history buff, especially Masonic History.  Many of us would like to speak 2 languages.  Do you know that you all do?  The first is the one we all have spoken most of our life.  The second is a beautiful and simple form of communication, which is simply the language of symbolism.

 

    Tonight I will pick up where I left off on the second language of symbolism which we all speak and do without knowing about it.  There are many different ways in which Stars have been portrayed and each has its own meaning.  There is the 6 pointed Star of David, the four pointed Star of the Nativity and many others.  The Order of Eastern Star has for its emblem the 5 pointed Star.  This is the symbol of deity and is the Star of Epiphany - that time when the wise men found the child Jesus - the day that Christ was reveled to and worshiped by the gentiles.  It was God's way of saying that his child was born to save all who will accept him.

    The number 5 as a symbolic number has special meanings.  It contains the numbers 3 and 2.  The number 3 not only refers to the triangle but holds an important place in our Order.  Our government is established in 3 bodies, all passes consist of 3 words.  The signs each have 3 parts.  The Bible is opened with 3 motions and the Order is dedicated to 3 things ... Charity, Truth and Loving Kindness.  As indicated, the number 5 also contains the number 2, and imperfect number, which in symbolism represents human beings.  In addition to symbolism of the number 3 which has just been given, the number 3 being a perfect number also symbolized God.  In the number 5 therefore, God being the perfect and humanity being imperfect are brought together.  So the number 5 speaks of the reconciliation which to place between God and people in the sacrifice of Christ on the cross.  The number 5 is shown in other ways in our Order.  There are five degrees and five passes.  Five triangles outline the Pentagon and surround the Labyrinth.  There are 5 emblematic colors, 5 emblems, and 5 flowers.  The Star Point Officers not only teach the 5 lessons but they represent the 5 degrees of relationship of women to Master Masons.

    The 5 pointed Star also symbolizes the physical structure of a person.  The white ray is the head, the yellow and green rays are the hands and arms, and the blue and red are the legs and feet.  It further reminds us that it is through the use of the 5 senses that we are enabled to gain knowledge of our world.  The question is often raised as to why our Star is upside down.  Rob Morris clearly indicates in his writings that it is to portray the 5 states of Christ's life.  The first point represents the birth of Jesus, being emblematic of fidelity it symbolizes the faithful fulfillment of God's promises to people in the coming of Christ into the world.  The second point represents the life of Jesus and symbolizes constancy in that Jesus remained constant to God's will during His earthly life rather than to His own wishes.  The third point which points downward represents the death of Jesus and symbolizes the fact that Jesus was loyal to God's will even to death.  The fourth point represents the resurrection of Christ.  The color green symbolizes the promise to all of us of immortal life given in the resurrection.  The fifth point represents the ascension of Christ and symbolizes the love Christ had for us in leaving the world so that the Holy Spirit might come to those who would accept it.  The 1st and 5th Points of the Star point upward as depict the 2 events in Christ's life most connected with heaven, the birth when Jesus came from God, the ascension when He returned to God.

    The Star Point Officers are frequently called the 5 gates of the Order.  They are the ones who open the way to the great light of the Bible and who reveal to the new member the lessons of our heroines by whose teachings each of us is able to live fuller lives.    Another name for these officers are the Central Jewels of our Order. 

(To be continued ...)

 

 


 

MESSAGES FROM MY MAILBOX ... 

 
Sadness ...

    I received a phone call that Lila and Jack Estes’s’ daughter was killed this past Friday morning on her way to work. She was dependent on the bus for transportation and was crossing the street to catch the second bus that she needed to take and was hit and died at the scene—the driver told the state trooper he just did not see her. It was still dark as she had to be at work at 6:30 AM and Lila does not know what she was wearing. Unfortunately where she had to catch the second bus there was no crosswalk and it happened on the Mukilteo speedway which is a very busy 4 lane road.

    Their daughter leaves their only granddaughter who is 28 years old. Apparently she and her Mom had been through a lot.

    I know that you will keep them in your prayers and cards, emails or phone calls would be very much appreciated Fortunately they have a very supportive biological family and I know we all are with them, plus many many friends as they have lived in this area for many years. They are very well thought of in the community and in the Masonic organization. Jack is very active in his lodge.

**Forwarded by Holly Butterfield

Cards:  P. O. Box 32, Startup, WA 98293-0032
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Daryl Orseth ...

(12/8) This is the note that I sent out on Daryl Orseth.  Trim it down however you wish for your newsletter.  Daryl is the Junior Past Potentate of Nile Shrine.

 

     Marcia just had a call from Pat Orseth that Daryl had a bad fall last night and is now in Swedish Hospital in an induced coma. 

     Pat was at West Seattle MC doing her Deputy Instructor duties last night and upon arriving home, she first saw a pool of blood and then found Daryl sitting in a chair, bleeding from his head.  He was able to talk to her and said he wanted to sit down.  She knew his response was not proper, so she headed for Valley General Hospital, but soon sensed that he was in more trouble by the conversation.  So she headed for Swedish Hospital, entered the Emergency section and they immediately determined he needed more than their treating.  After diagnosing Daryl as having a fractured skull and internal skull bleeding, they took him to the operating room, induced him into a coma, and removed a section of his skull to relief the bleeding and swelling pressure.  He will be kept in the coma for about 48 hours and then once they bring him around they should find out what happened.  When Pat first found him, he told her that he didn't know what happened.

    So it is unknown just how he ended up in this predicament initially.  They don't know just how bad he is, so all those questions will be answered in the days ahead.  Please keep Daryl and Pat and the family in your prayers, and a card or two will help.

(12/9)  Greetings,

     We just got a call from Alma Michelsen who had been asked by Pat Orseth to call us and pass on the following.
 
     Daryl is being kept in the induced coma state as he has a blood clot on the left side of his brain and the doctors want to keep him as quiet as possible until that clot dissolves.  They also are monitoring his brain waves as he apparently has had some slight seizures prior to this event and they hope to determine the cause and location of them.  He is responsive to questions by squeezing one's fingers, but cannot be understood if he tries to speak.
    They still do not know what caused him to fall in the beginning.  Pat invited him to go to the Official Visit last Thursday night as it was one of the chapters she is the assigned OES Deputy Instructor.  He said that he'd stay home an do the laundry, so she went to the OV.  When she got home, she found the laundry had been folded, but that it was thrown all around the stairs and Daryl was sitting in a chair bleeding from the head.  So, apparently he was carrying the clothes up (or down) the stairs when something happened, causing him to fall down the stairs.  Whether he had a seizure then, or not, is not known at this time.  The cause of the head strike is still not known, and that is why they are monitoring his brain waves.
    The kids are all home and helping Pat as needed.  Daryl is on the 7th floor of Swedish Hospital, but I'm sure no visitors yet as he is not able to communicate and is in the induced coma.  Still keep the prayers and cards coming.
. . . . . . . . .. . . . .
Greetings,
     It is much sadness that I pass on a message from Sister Pat Orseth, that her husband Daryl passed on early this morning, having never regained consciencness from his induced coma following his fall last Friday evening.
     At this moment, plans are very tentative, but Pat is hoping for Masonic graveside service this coming Saturday morning (15th) and then go to the Nile for a Celebration of Life for Daryl in the afternoon.  Two of the kids just arrived from Europe and Pat wants them to attend the service and Celebration before they have to return.  So, exact timing will be sent out when known.  Please remember Pat and family with your prayers and cards.
     SK Daryl was Worshipful Master of St. Andrew's Lodge No. 35 in 1963, and following his retirement from Boeing, served as Secretary for a few years and Treasurer for the last several years, including the current year.  He was also current Treasurer of Issaquah Chapter No. 39, RAM, and was the Junior Past Potentate of Nile Shrine.
    The Orseth family address is 8511 So. 119th St., Seattle, WA  98178-4038
** Don Beck, PGP
+ + + + + + +  
   
(12/11) Doris Ehle just called. Pat had just called her to let her know that Daryl passed away last night. Once arrangements have been made, Doris
will let us know.
    I am running out the door. Please check the e-mail addresses and see if you can forward this message to someone who needs to know about Daryl.
Sorry to rush this sad news to you.
Thoughts and Prayers for Pat and her family,
** Jean Pennington, Secretary, Analia Chapter
Cards:
Pat Orseth & Family
8511 S 119th ST
Seattle, WA 98178-4038
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Victory Chapter news ...

Dear Connie:
    Noticed that you missed Victory Chapter on Dec. 5.  It's okay because we are NOT having a fund-raising dinner.  We are having a potluck dinner for FREE! and anyone interested may come.  We will have the East Valley High School Strolling Strings again this year.  All are welcome and we will have refreshments following the meeting for those who missed the dinner.  If you could print that, it would be very much appreciated.  Thanks.  (If not, it's not a problem since you didn't print the fund-raiser -- sometimes we are blessed. :) 
**Jean Burnett
Ooops!  Sorry that one fell through the cracks!  I remember typing it  ... BUT did I forget to SAVE???
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Remember to recycle ...
We will Recycle Your USED Christmas tree
Sunday the 30th & Monday the 31st of December!  8 am to 6 pm
Bring your tree to Black Diamond Masonic Hall parking lot
3rd & BAKER, BLACK DIAMOND, OR DROP OFF YOUR TREE
** Leslie Donat, WM, Laurel Chapter

Please remember to tell your friends about our fundraiser - Recycling Used Christmas Trees .... 

** Jeannette Carroll,  Mother Advisor

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New address...

Hi Connie, we have moved to Davenport and our new address is P.O. Box l73, Davenport, Washington 99l22. 

**Beth & Phil Krause

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Amaranth news ...

            I have received the following information.  Please pass this on to those not receiving e-mail.

 

** SUPREME COUNCIL, Order of the Amaranth, Inc.

Dear Honored Ladies and Sir Knights:

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the decease of our

PAST SUPREME ROYAL PATRON SIR KNIGHT JOHN W. CARROLL

Entered into Eternal Peace on November 21, 2007

Sir Knight John served as:

Supreme Royal Patron 1971 - 1972

Grand Royal Patron of Florida in 1966 -1967

He was currently serving as Royal Patron of Heritage Court # 57 in Florida. 

 

After the darkness

The daylight shines through

After the showers

The rainbow's in view

After life's heartaches

There comes from above

The peace and the comfort

Of God's healing love.

Sweet in our Memory

 

Fraternally,

HL Gayle E. Norberg, Supreme Royal Matron

SK George L. Herbolsheimer, IV, Supreme Royal Patron

Gayle V. Adank,  Supreme Secretary

 

**  Sequoia Court #15 - December Notice: 

            HI ALL   (Sequoia at White Rock, BC Mon Dec. 10th O.V.) THIS IS SEQUOIA COURT B.C.'S NEWS LETTER. GIVES INFORMATION ON TIME PLACE ETC. FOR WASHINGTON'S VISIT TO THE GRAND ROYAL MATRON OF B.C.  IF ANYONE IS STAYING OVER NIGHT IT WOULD BE WISE TO STAY ON THE WASHINGTON SIDE OF THE BOARDER OUR MONEYS ARE NOW LOWER THAN B.C.  AND THEIR HOTEL PRICES OUR HIGHER. BOB AND I ARE ROUND TRIPPING THE VISIT.  HOPE TO SEE AS MANY AS POSSIBLE AT THE O.V.

-- MYRNA  Shomaker, PGRM  Gr. Rep to BC

 

** Don Carlton:  I received this information from Don Carlton.  He has decided to have chemotherapy.  The surgery he had got all the cancer but recent medical data indicates that a follow up chemotherapy program considerably reduces the chance of re-occurrence with the type of cancer he had.   He will have chemo for 4 month so I know he would appreciate thinking of you cards and get well cards. Don Carlton's address:   377 Hemlock   Goldendale, WA 98620-2728. Thanks for passing on the information.

 

** First to let you know the Grand Ct. packets went out Monday so the court secretaries, Grand Officers, PGrands  will be receiving them in the mail.  If you want a copy of the information either go on our web site or ask court secretary for a copy. Also Grand Court proceedings are at the printers so I will be getting them to those who have ordered and paid for them as soon as I get them.

 

** Sandi Gordon is going in tomorrow (11/29) for laser eye surgery because of Diabetes. The newsletter will also be out this week to those who have subscriptions. Sandi's address   9925 116th St. S.W. Lakewood 98498-1617.

 

** A quick note to let you know that HL Elaine Hopkins was ambushed at work yesterday morning.  She says she was NOT roller skating, though some have their doubts.  There is a new hire at the municipal court and she has insisted putting her paper recycle bin in the walk way which is located at a blind corner of the office aisles.  Elaine had been doing some filing work, turned around to go back to her desk, rounded the corner and tripped on the bin.  She fell to the floor turning her foot hard enough to fracture it at the fourth metatarsal.  Seems she will be "booted" for four to six weeks, out of work for a short while, on drugs to ease the pain and homebound for a little while.  We have seen the Drs. and the good part is no surgery is required.  Will keep you apprised of any further developments.  Between you and me I'm not sure she wasn't roller skating. 

-- SK Bruce Hopkins RP          

            Elaine Hopkins address: P.O. Box 731088 Puyallup; 98373-0049.

                                                                    

-- Eleanor McAdams, PGRM has moved to Assisted living.  Her address is: 4815 S.W. Dogwood Lane;  Portland, OR 97225   phone 503-297-1477.

--  (12/11) Just received this sad information … Kathy Anicker, R.M.  Halcyon Ct. father died Dec. 8th.  Please keep her and her family in your thoughts and prayers.

Cards to:  707 N. 24th Ave.

Kelso, WA 98626-5303.

            Mike Patton did not have the surgery yesterday.  It is being rescheduled for Friday.  He will then be in a cast for 10 weeks.  Keep him in your thoughts and prayers. Its hard to do things with only one hand.

** Bonnie McCroskey, Gr. Sec. WA

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News from the Grand Chapter of Massachusetts ...

CYBER CHAT:  Friday, November 23, 2007; Cyber Chat’s Inbox
>From Frank Fenner WGP
THE WORTHY GRAND PATRON'S SPECIAL PROJECT

 

MASONIC MEDICAL RESEARCH LABORATORY
            The MMRL, located in Utica, NY, is an internationally renowned medical research and educational institute dedicated to studies of the electrical activity of the heart and the mechanisms responsible for abnormal rhythms of the heart and sudden cardiac death. The MMRL is also a center for genetic screening of inherited arrhythmic diseases. MMRL scientists have delineated the genetic basis for several inherited sudden cardiac death syndromes and uncovered mechanisms responsible for many forms of life threatening cardiac arrhythmias as well as the mechanisms by which drugs act to precipitate arrhythmias.
            We (Sister Judy and I) have visited the Laboratory and were very impressed with their facility and their work. They have recently announced a discovery that may change the way Atrial Fibrilation is treated. All of us know someone that has been touched by heart disease. Many of us have atrial fibrilation and as we age the incidence increases. Please help us find a better way to treat these cardiac diseases and maybe to find a cure for some of them.
            Pins may be purchased from any Grand Officer.  If you want to take your donations as a tax deduction lease make checks payable to the MMRL … write MA OES in the note section and give to a Grand Officer as your donation for a pin or mail to the WGP (Frank H. Fenner, Jr., P.O. Box 130, Centerville, MA 02632) 
$10.00 donation:  MMRL pin and wristband
$5.00 donation:  MMRL Campaign for Discovery Pin
            Larger donations are also gratefully accepted and will be acknowledged by the MMRL.
            We have a goal of being able to have the Grand Chapter of Massachusetts represented on the MMRL's Vine of Life. Please help us to reach this goal! We hope every Chapter will be represented!
            For more information about the work at the laboratory go to  http://www.mmrl..edu
Thanks in advance for your help.
 Fraternally,
** Frank, WGP
 P.S. We are still collecting cell phones and eyeglasses. Used Eyeglasses will be donated to the Lions Club and Old Cell phones will be donated to the Battered Women’s Shelters.

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Montana State Trooper ...
    In most of the United States, there is a policy of checking on any stalled vehicle on the highway when temperatures drop; to single digits or below.  About 3 AM one very cold morning, Montana State Trooper Allan Nixon #658 responded to a call there was a car off the shoulder of the road outside Great Falls, Montana.  He located the car, stuck in deep snow and with the engine still running.  Pulling in behind the car with his emergency lights on, the trooper walked to the driver's door to find an older man passed out behind the wheel with a nearly empty vodka bottle on the seat beside him.  The driver came awake when the trooper taped on the window.  Seeing the rotating lights in his rearview mirror, and the state trooper standing next to his car, the man panicked.  He jerked the gearshift into 'drive' and hit the gas.
    The car's speedometer was showing 20-30-40 and then 50 MPH, but it was still stuck in the snow, wheels spinning.  Trooper Nixon, having a sense of humor, began running in place next to the speeding (but stationary) car.  The driver was totally freaked, thinking the trooper was actually keeping up with him.  This goes on for about 30 seconds, then the trooper yelled: 'PULL OVER!'
    The man nodded, turned his wheel and stopped the engine.  Needless to say, the man from North Dakota was arrested and is probably still shaking his head over the state trooper in Montana who could run 50 miles per hour.
    Who says troopers don't have a sense of humor?
** Shared by Glynis Tucker
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Thank you ...
Hi Connie,
    ... My husband John came back home to live with me 3 weeks ago so I am a full time caregiver for him 24/7. He had surgery on Aug. 2 from C2 to T2 as his spinal cord was entrapped. He has regained the use of his hands but not his arms yet and can walk with a walker. As you'll recall, I asked you to put him in your newsletters asking for prayer for him. Thank you also for that and for each person you put on your list for prayer. Me thinks you have many prayer warriors out there in cyberspace. God bless you and yours at this special season of the year.
** Mary Smith Rodenbucher, Waconda Chapter

 

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Prayers needed ...
(11/29)
    Alice Beals fell on Monday night and is in Swedish Hospital with a broken hip.  She had surgery on Wednesday to repair it.
    Clayton Sparks had arthroscopic knee surgery for a torn meniscus this morning and is recovering at home.
    Fran Young will have liver cancer surgery this Friday at University Hospital in Seattle.
** Mary Ellen Sparks
I'm sorry but I don't have addresses for cards. 
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Interested?  Sounds like fun!

Greetings,
    I am gathering a list of those possibly interested in joining us once again, as a group to go Washington DC the week of the OES Headquarters (Temple) Gala Anniversary celebration September 11-12-13th, 2009. At this time,  we are unsure of the costs, so need to see how many might be interested, and what sights you might like to add on. Some of the Washington, Montana and Oregon members joined us before,  we would love to have you join us this time too!
    We are looking at adding extra days, and this trip would include air, hotel, bus, tour guides, and some meals.  Plus all the events the "Gala Committee" is putting together for us at this time.
    I need name, email, phone and mailing address contacts. Please contact me with the above information to be added to our interest list, and I will keep you informed.   If you have some ideas of sights to add on, let me know what those are. 
     We had so much fun last time, so hope you will consider this trip too.
With Star Love and Bear Hugs

** Linda Hattrick, Worthy Grand Esther, PGM Idaho
1-866-638-1654
rabbit3@msmforless.com 

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Sadness in Ontario ...

     It is with sadness that we inform the Membership of the passing of Mrs. Mary Roberts, Grand Representative of Ohio in Ontario.

     Mary was a Member of Clovelly & Satellite Chapters and was a 51 year Member of our Order.  She passed away peacefully at The Toronto Grace Hospital on December 11th, 2007.  She will be sadly missed by her Daughter, Helen Delaney W.G.M., Pat Delaney Grand Marshal and her loving grandchildren, Michael and Amber.

     Funeral arrangements are as follows; Visitation on Thursday December 13th, 2007 from 2 - 4 and 7 - 9. with an Eastern Star Service at 7:30.

Wards Funeral Home

2035 Weston Road, Weston

     Church Service on Friday 11 AM.  The Westway United Church, 8 Templar Drive, Etobicoke

            In lieu of flowers donations to "Reach for the Rainbow" or a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated

** Lee Atinson

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Grand Chapter Office ...
Good Afternoon,

    Just a reminder that the Grand Chapter Office will be closed Friday, December 14, 2007. 

    Hope you all have a good weekend.

                Star Hugs,

                    Sandy

** Sandra K. Henry, Grand Secretary, Grand Chapter of Washington, Order of the Eastern Star, 615 North ST SE, Tumwater WA 98501-3438
Phone/FAX 360-570-9321

 

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Christmas Charity Pilgrimage

            Bill McCormick left for his Christmas Charity run for Wrap Them In Love.  The crew at Ellen's store fixed 200 Christmas boxes.  Many were donated and those not gift wrapped were then wrapped up.  Besides all the Christmas boxes there were lots of bags of clothes.  The drop off for Bill is the Alex & Zoui One Star's house.  Last year they had 150 line up at the door to receive their Christmas present.  Then what was left was taken to those who could not get out to come and pick up their gifts.

            I think this is the 5th year Ellen has been doing this.  Many thanks to those who have helped with this project.  It is such a worthwhile project. This is very helpful for Eastern Stars to be doing. 

** Helen McCormick

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Maple Chapter news ... some bad ... some good!

Sad News -

    Linda Boyd of Maple Chapter lost her mother - Helen Layton - on Dec. 5.  Sympathy cards can be sent to:

Linda and Gary Boyd

503 - 23rd Avenue

Longview, WA  98632

 

HAPPY NEWS -

    Loralee Minyard (of Maple Chapter) married Bud May on November 17, 2007.  The happy couple are living in Longview.  Congratulations cards can be sent to:

Mr. and Mrs. Bud May

3124 Louisiana St.

Longview, WA  98632

** Alice Ashley

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Kirkland Chapter news …

            Hi, would you please put in your next Stars that at Kirkland Chapter’s December 19th (7:30 p.m.) meeting we will have our Holiday Party. It will be Holiday Dress, short form, December Birthdays and Anniversaries, we will have an ornament exchange & “dessert potluck”. Hope to see you all there.

** Kathy Neubecker

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Please note ... address changes ...

Hi Connie,

     In your next edition would you be so kind as to let everyone know that NO mail is being accepted at Pyramid Masonic Center. Mail should be addressed to the Chapter Secretary, Lodge Secretary, Court Secretary, etc. The US Postal service has advised us to do this, due to vandalized mail boxes.   

Address for Chapter Secretary: Laura Vogel, 1912 Tacoma Road, Puyallup Wa 98371

                 Lodge Secretary: Mike Turley  P.O Box 3121 Federal Way Wa 98063

                 Pyramid Court – Sec Ron Gosland 5229 S. 312th St. Auburn, Wa 98001

                 Bethel #67    Patty Reardon- Guardian 25330 126th  Ave.SE Kent, 98031

 

Thanks

** Laura Vogel, Secretary, Pyramid Chapter

 

 
 

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Ted's Christmas trees ...

    Thank you for all the work you do.  I’m intrigued about the wooden trees Ted makes for you to decorate.  Someday I will get to see your home on the water.  I love your stories. 

    Merry Christmas and Hugs to both of you

** Flo Marlow, Alma Chapter

 

    The trees are made from 3/8 or 1/2 inch rebar and are  7 ft or longer in length depending your height wishes. They are welded to a pipe coupling in diameter of 2 inches and then the rebar is bent outward making a pyramid shape.

** Ted Shrum, maker of Connie’s Christmas Trees which adorn our yard … all 6 of them!!!  

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Dream Catcher for Electa's Cup -

Halito Sisters and Brothers,

    As a Friend of a Feather for the General Grand Chapter, I am selling pins for the Most Worthy Grand Matron, Barbara Benton and the Most Worthy Grand Patron, William E. Owen.  The General Grand Chapter Committee members are selling them as well.  There are 4 pins funding Cancer, Heart, Youth, and the Shrine Hospitals.  There is also a book explaining the symbolism of our Order and Native American Trivia which funds ESTARL.  Proceeds from the sales of the pins and books benefit the Montana Grand Chapter Charities.

    I wanted to display these pins on my dresses and found that I was poking a lot of holes in the fabric.  Well, I thought, why not make a DREAM CATCHER to display the pins and have only one hole in the fabric?  MWGM Barbara saw this and was very pleased.  I presented her with one and she said “You are selling them, aren’t you?”  I replied that “If I received permission from her and our WGM Gayle, I would make them and sell them.”

    I have received permission, and as I wanted to fund another of O.E.S.’s charities; the proceeds will fund the Electa’s Cup Endowment Fund in Montana.

    These DREAM CATCHERS are $5.00 plus postage.   Electa’s Cup Endowment Fund receives $4.50; fifty cents covers my costs.  The actual size is 5 inches tall by 3-1/2 inches at the widest part.  Please email me at: bma18@msn.com for orders and we can arrange payment so I can send them to you.

    So far I have sold over 20 DREAM CATCHERS to Sisters and Brothers in and out of our jurisdiction—Washington, Idaho, New Mexico, Oregon, California, Nevada, Maryland, North Carolina, Georgia and Montana.

EIHONEYSJ,

---Barbara Anderson, Friend of a Feather in Montana

     To see a picture of these Dream Catchers.... while logged on the Internet, click on this link or if it doesn't appear as a clickable link, copy/paste it into the address on your browser.  http://www.libby.org/~mhend/MontanaOEStar/dreamcatcher.jpg

** Montana Stars

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Montana Masonic Home News -

STAY HEALTHY THIS WINTER WITH THESE TIPS!

1.  Wash hands, and wash them right.  Scrub for 10-20 seconds several times a day.

2.  Maintain your exercise routine through the winter.

3.  Drink plenty of water.

4.  Eat several small meals a day, each with a bit of protein, to eliminate cravings for sweets.

** Montana Stars

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Do you have Extra Christmas Cards?  Extra Get Well Cards?  Why not put them to good use ...

    OK- here is another announcement regarding get well cards to wounded soldiers:
    With the help of the U.S. Department of Defense, Walter Reed Army Medical Center and Pitney Bowes, between now and December 27, members of the public can mail their holiday cards to:

 

We Support You During Your Recovery!
c/o American Red Cross
P.O. Box 419
Savage, MD 20763-0419

    Red Cross volunteers will sort the cards for appropriate content and repackage them for shipping. Our partner, Pitney Bowes, will ship the cards to Red Cross stations at the military hospitals where they will be distributed to wounded Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines.
Always,
** Cheryl Dean, PM, Lily of the Lake #41, Lemoore CA GCC, and
Station Manager, American Red Cross, Schweinfurt GE

 + + + + + + + +

 

    I would like to request for any of you to remember our Grandson who is serving in Iraq. His Mother is also an OES member and his Grandfather
and Dad are Masons.
SPC Weicht Robert W
Crazyhorse Troop, 3rd ACR
APO AE 09351
    Thank you.
** Joanne Avery PM, Jasper Chapter # 8, Sioux Falls, SD GGC

+  + + + + + +

 

    Just a note to add that I have one additional address for a soldier who is in need of goodies for himself and his friends. He is currently in Iraq so please go forth and spread a little of that Eastern Star Joy that you do so well!!! I know that he and his soldiers will appreciate anything that you can do. Please put in your email address when sending packages- it's easier for them to answer
than by sending a thank you (and you do know that sending thank you notes are probably the last thing on their minds!)

CW2 Paul Morabito
A Co 3-1 Avn. Cab
COB Speicher
APO AE 09393

Always,
** Cheryl Dean, PM, Lily of the Lake #41, Lemoore, CA GCC, and
Station Manager, American Red Cross, Schweinfurt GE

 

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Star Member affected by wind storm …

(12/5) The storm hit Sunday night and by early Monday morning our house had lost the roof on the entire south side. We ended up with a couple of drips and since no flashing some water damage to the ceilings in our bedroom, the dining room and kitchen. Adjuster will be here Monday.

    Mom and Dad got into their new home last Wednesday and they had no problems. Jeff and Sue lost several trees on their property and were blocked in -- guess a couple hit the house and he has some minor damage --

    Our power went our around 11:30 on Sunday and was restored about 4:40 this morning. We had just local phone service until about 5 tonight and no internet or cell phone service until about the same time.

    Lots of wind damage in the area -- several trees down -- our neighbors lost several tree tops but were lucky in that none hit any buildings.

    We are all fine and hope this finds you all doing well.

 ** Marla & Jack Johnson , Pacific Chapter

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>From  CYBER CHAT, Thursday, December 13, 2007, Cyber Chat’s Inbox

 Dear Sisters and Brothers,
    During this season, we visit the sick, homebound, or inactive members that we know about and try to brighten their day with a small gift.  As Worthy Matron for the last five years, I have come to know more about these absent members.  I do admit that I dread it as I find it depressing when I know we cannot change the pain and loneliness they feel daily.  My only satisfaction is to let them know that they are not forgotten, and we pray and think of them.  I'd like to share with you the most inspirational visit I have ever had with an absent member and I'd like all my brothers and sisters to know more about her.
    What would you expect with a visit to a 107-year-old Sister? (Perhaps she is our oldest member; however I do know she is the oldest Girl Scout in the U.S.)   She now has her own website, www.MillyEngland.com.  Unfortunately, Sister Milly had a fall at home the day before Thanksgiving; the day after she had won the hand-made afghan at our Visitation..  With the assistance of my Associate Matron (my Mom) we learned of this accident from her Grand Niece that she was in a Rehab Center in New Bedford  She had broken her hip and was recovering well.  She laid on the floor for 4 hours before her niece came home.  As Milly said, "The doctors call me a miracle!"  
    Milly was sitting in a wheelchair reading a novel when we arrived.  She is hard of hearing so when I wrote down who I was she grabbed her face, called me by name and asked about every activity we have had. Milly is an amazing wealth of knowledge and memories.   Unknown to my Mom, she was initiated at a Visitation in 1967 when my mother was Deputy Grand Matron, but Milly knew who she was at that time and even now.   "You were much younger then, but I know the face."  She knew when and where the Lodge was located where she went to functions.  "Unfortunately, those I knew then are now gone". she said.
    Please look at her podcasts on the websites where you will see her interviews with the news and her talk with kindergarteners.  I know I will be spending more time with Milly as I enjoyed her immensely and  she has so much more to teach me about life.  I hope when I am 107, I will be just like Sister Amelia England!  Anything is possible with faith, hope, and charity.
    May the blessings of this Season remain with us eternally!
** Lynda D. Racine, P.M, W.M., Agawam Chapter No. 121

    This Milly should meet my dad!!!  Imagine!  Her own website.  My dad was thinking of purchasing a computer, but since he is missing the four fingers on his right hand, thought it would be a bit difficult so scratched the idea!  I checked out Milly's website, and it says that she plays cards about 3 times a week!  Hey!  My dad's kind of girl!!!  What if she is about 5 years older ....  It appears that the website is kept up by a family member, however!  Well ... I have enuf to do, thank you very much.  LOL! 

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Word of the month ....

ragmatical | rag•MAT•ih•kull |
obscure adj. Ill-behaved, wild, raucous, riotous.

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A GREAT TIP FROM LAW ENFORCEMENT ... PUT YOUR CAR KEYS BESIDE YOUR BED AT NIGHT
    Put your car keys beside your bed at night. If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to get in your house, just press the panic button for your car. The alarm will be set off, and the horn will continue to sound until either you turn it off or the car battery dies.
    This tip came from a neighborhood watch coordinator. Next time you come home for the night and you start to put your keys away, think of this: It's a security alarm system that you probably already have and requires no installation. Test it. It will go off from most everywhere inside your house and will keep honking until your battery runs down or until you reset it with the button on the key fob chain.
    It works if you park in your driveway or garage.  If your car alarm goes off when someone is trying to break in your house, odds are the burglar or rapist won't stick around... after a few seconds all the neighbors will be looking out their windows to see who is out there and sure enough the criminal won't want that.
And remember to carry your keys while walking to your car in a parking lot. The alarm can work the same way there.....
    This is something that should really be shared with everyone. Maybe it could save a life or a sexual abuse crime.  P.S. I am sending this to everyone I know because I think it is fantastic. It would also be useful for any emergency, such as a heart attack, where you can't reach a phone.
    A wife suggested to her husband to carry his car keys with him in case he falls outside and she doesn't hear him. He can activate the car alarm and then she'll know there's a problem.

   This is good advice to pass along to your loved ones.

** Shared by Linda Miller

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LIFE HAS TAUGHT ME

 

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

4. Don't take yourself so seriously.  No one else does.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument.  Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone.    It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God.    He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile (a woman thang).

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others.    You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Life is too short for long pity parties. Get busy living, or get busy dying.

17. You can get through anything if you stay put in today.

18. A writer writes.    If you want to be a writer, write.

19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, and wear the fancy lingerie.  Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now.    Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything.    Give time … time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will.     Stay in touch.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

36. Growing old beats the alternative?  Dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood.    Make it memorable.

38. Read the Psalms.    They cover every human emotion.

39. Get outside every day.    Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

41. Don't audit life.    Show up and make the most of it now.

42. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful, or joyful.

43. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

44. Envy is a waste of time.    You already have all you need.

45. The best is yet to come.

46. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up, and show up.

47. Take a deep breath.    It calms the mind.

48. If you don't ask, you don't get.

49. Yield.

50. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

** Debbie Keck

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1957 HAPPY NEW YEAR invitation ...
    Waconda Chapter No. 217 invites you to a New Years Celebration!
Celebrating the Official Visit of the Worthy Grand Matron, Marjoe Richards
January 18th, 2008.  Meeting at 1:00 PM
Dime a Dip Potluck at 11:30 AM. (Proceeds going to the WGM project).  In 1957 maybe but todays rate 50 cents!
    What would be New Years be with out the Rose Parade.  There will be a Rose Parade Float Competition and Everyone is invited to participate.
The year is 1957 ... The theme 'Famous Firsts in Flowers'
The size should be about the size of a shoe box.
 
John Paul Jones Lodge
3025 - 96th Street NW
Gig Harbor, WA
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Tips for Christmas ...
  • To guarantee a spotless home for your holiday company, pick a new room each weekend to deep clean.  (Well!  Good thoughts .... but at this house, by the time, room 2 was being cleaned, room 1 is already messed up!) 

  • If you’re planning a holiday party, mail the invitations soon so guests can make their attendance plans.

  • Need stocking stuffers? Consider gift certificates, concert tickets, lottery tickets, candles, CDs, DVDs, gourmet snacks, or hobby gear.

  • Don’t worry about taking down Christmas decorations on Dec. 26th. Leave your snowmen decorations up all winter long. 

  • Encourage party guests to mingle by singing Christmas carols together. (Note: This may work best after a cocktail or two.)

  • Avoid over-beating cheesecake batter to prevent surface cracking (Ah ha!  That was what was wrong ... and the burnt look on top of the surface cracking?  Too long in the oven???)  LOL! 

 
 

 

 

OES CHAPTERS CALENDAR
 
(as taken from your Ode Cards ... includes everything, hopefully, except those are listed in the Masonic Calendar.  Chapters on the Westside will be highlighted RED and those on the Eastside in GREEN (Christmas time you know!) The Cascades will be the dividing point!)
 
Reminders ...  December 15th- December 31st, 2007
 

 

15 December (3rd Saturday)
* Floral Chapter, Monroe ... Masonic Christmas Party at Petosa. 
 
16 December (3rd Sunday)
THIRD ADVENT
 
17 December (3rd Monday)
FIRST QUARTER (MOON)
* Bethlehem Chapter, Deer Park ...  Christmas Potluck:  6:00 PM.  Stated Meeting; Long Opening; Christmas Party and games following meeting.  Bring canned food for Food Bank.  Time:  7:30 PM.
Faith Chapter, Lakewood ... Stated Meeting; Short Form.  Christmas Party; bring canned foods; Christmas Dress.  Chairs:  Rose, Eadie & Lois.  Time: 7:30 PM.
* Madrona Chapter, Anacortes ... Stated Meeting; All Member Cookie Exchange.  Decorations:  Mary Gibson.  Time:  7:30 PM. 
* Southgate Chapter, Burien ...  Stated Meeting; Long Form; Chapter Dress.  Celebrate Christmas.  Dining Room:  Treasurer.  Time:  7:30 PM. 
* Warren Chapter, Tacoma ...  Stated Meeting; Christmas Meeting.  Time:  7:30 PM. 
 
18 December (3rd Tuesday)
* Everett Chapter ...  Stated Meeting; Christmas Party.  Serving:  Joyce & Bliss Settergren.  Time:  7:30 PM.
* Greenwood Chapter, Seattle ... Stated Meeting; Short Form; December Birthdays.  Special 'Christmas Pudding Celebration'.  Chairman:  Betty Odie.  Christmas Dress.  Time:  7:30 PM.  
* Magnolia Chapter, Millwood ... Stated Meeting; Remember When with Linda Godfrey.  Refreshments:  Linda Godfrey.  Time:  7:30 PM. 
Maple Leaf Chapter, Bellingham ...  Potluck:  6:30 PM.  Stated Meeting; Christmas Celebration.  Dining Room Committee:  Maple Leaf PM's.  Time:  7:30 PM. 
* Priscilla Chapter, Port Gamble ... Stated Meeting; Christmas Music; Chime Chorus.  Time:  7:30 PM.   
 
19 December (3rd Wednesday)
* Henry Wentworth Chapter, Vancouver ... Stated Meeting; Chapter Birthday; Honor Charter Members and PM & PP.  Honor 5-Year PM & PP, May & Seward Shuman.  Short Form; Chapter Dress.  Serving:  Eileen Winstead.  Time:  7:30 PM.
* Occidental Chapter, Ballard ... Chapter Christmas Dinner Party:  6:00 PM.  Chrm:  Kate Kalmbach.  Lake City Elks Club. 
* Olympia Chapter, Tumwater ... Stated Meeting; 'Alaska - Potlatch' Christmas.  Christmas Party; Short Form; Holiday Dress.  Time:  7:30 PM. 
* Pine Tree Chapter, Kettle Falls ... Christmas Party with the Masons. 
* Victory Chapter, Millwood ... Auxiliary Christmas Party.  Time:  12:00 noon. 
 
20 December (3rd Thursday)
* Adelphi Chapter, Spokane ... Christmas Dinner Potluck:  6:15 PM.  Betty Evans, Coordinator.  All members serving.  Stated Meeting; Short Form.  Time:  7:30 PM. 
* Alderwood Chapter, Everett ... Social Night Potluck:  6:00 PM.  Casual Holiday Dress.  No Meeting.   
* Ivanhoe Chapter, Spokane ... Stated Meeting; Short Form; Celebrate Christmas.  Time:  7:30 PM. 
* Lackamas Chapter, Washougal ... Stated Meeting; Balloting; Celebrate Christmas.  Refreshments & Decorations:  Star Points.  Time:  7:30 PM. 
* Lakeside Chapter, Bellevue ... Stated Meeting; Long Form; Holiday Dress.  Chapter Holiday Party:  Hosted by PM.  Please bring a wrapped gift to exchange.  Celebrate December Birthdays.  Time:  7:30 PM. 
* Occidental Chapter, Ballard ... Serve Lodge Dinner.  Time:  5:00 PM. 
* Reliance Chapter, Bremerton ... Stated Meeting; Christmas Meet