STARS OF WASHINGTON
 
May 22nd, 2007
#7-025
 

SO LONG SON

 

There was no band, no flags, no ceremonial. It wasn't even dramatic. A car honked outside and he said, "Well, I guess that's for me."

He picked up his little bag, and his mother said, "You haven't forgotten your gloves?"

He kissed his mother, and held out his hand to me. "Well, so long," he said. I took his hand but all I could say was "Good luck!"

The door shut and that was that-another boy gone to war.

I had advised waiting for the draft-waiting at least until he was required to register. I had pointed out that he was not yet of age.

He had smiled at that, and assured me that his mind was made up. He wanted peace, he said. Without peace, what good was living?

There was finality in the way he said this-a finality at once grim and gentle. I said no more about waiting.

After the door closed behind him I went upstairs. I went to what had been his room. It was in worse chaos than usual.

His bureau was littered-an incredible collection of things, letters, keys, invitations to parties he would not attend.

Clothing was scattered about-dancing pumps, a tennis racket, his collection of music, his trumpet gleaming in its case.

I went then to my room. On the wall was a picture of a little boy, his toothless grin framed in tawny curls-the same boy who had just taken my hand

and said, "Well, so long."

Not much time, I thought, between the making of that picture and the slamming of the front door. Not much more than a decade.

Suddenly, a strange thing happened. Objects came alive, whispered to me. The house was full of soft voices. They led me up to the attic-to a box of

toy soldiers, a broken music rack, a football helmet, a homemade guitar, schoolbooks, class pictures, a stamp album, a penny bank with the lid pried off...

ancient history, long hidden under the dust.

The voices led me on to a filing case and a folder stuffed with pages and report cards, letters, among them the wail of an exasperated teacher:

"Though he looks like an angel..." telegrams, passports, a baptismal certificate, a ribbon won in a track meet, faded photographs

(one taken on the memorable first day of school), a bit of golden hair.

I sat down and thought how time had flown. Why, it was only yesterday when I held him in my arms! That, somehow, made me remember all the

scoldings I had given him, the preachments, the exhortations to virtue and wisdom I did not myself possess...

I thought, too, of that last inarticulate "good luck," that last perfunctory handclasp; and I wished that I had somehow been able to tell him how much

I really loved him. Had he perhaps penetrated my brusque reserve?

And then I thought, what fools we are with our children-always plotting what we shall make of them, always planning for a future that never comes,

always intent on what they may be, never accepting what they are!

Well, curly head, you're a man now, bearing your bright new shield and spear. I hated to see you go out of my house and close the door behind you,

but I think I would not have halted you if I could. I salute you, sir. I cannot pretend that I am not sad; but I am proud, too. So long.

Some months later the son of the author was killed in combat.  

** Howard Vincent O'Brien

 


 

 
PRIORITY MAIL IN MY MAILBOX
 
Greetings,
    What a pleasure it was to be present at the Answer to Clue #6 at Madrona Chapter for Friends Night.  Present, were GGC member Kit Wells, PGMs Florence Morris, Margaret Morgan, Cheri Moll, Gerry Shafer, Sandy McAmmond and Marilyn Hoots, PGPs Me, Ernie Brooks, Bill Hammontree and Joe Ivey. Grand Officers Marjoe Richards, Phil Green, Gen Cooley, Jill Okicich and Linda Miller. Grand Treasurer Emeritus Carmen Ivey.  Several Grand Representatives, Deputies, Worthy Matrons and Patrons.  Many Escorts and new Grand Warder appointee,  Marcia Haukaas and Escort Paul from Lackamas #152.  Also aspirants for AGC were Linda Runyan (Evergreen) and Gloria Schwartz (Crystal) and for GSentinel were Dennis Okicich (Rada Uphus) and Don McAmmond (Doric).  Being Friends Night there were many chapters present.  The total attendance was 102 members, Madrona's largest in many years.  
     When Sister Marjoe was given the opportunity to respond by the PGs, she invited Sister Leslie Green and Brother Ron Richards to walk the room and find the new appointee.  They walked around and eventually stopped at the station of Adah and picked up Sister Kay Johnson and announced she would be the next Grand Chaplain.  With that the room exploded with cheers and applause as Kay was escorted to the East.  Her escort for the year will be Brother Gerald Guthrie.  Kay had the opportunity to introduce her daughter Kim and grand daughter Kayla, both members of NESIKA chapter.    There were also 5 PG Chaplains in attendance.  Over all, it was a Grand evening.
** Don Beck, PGP
 
GRAND OFFICERS ... 2007-2008
 
Grand Chaplain - Kay Johnson, Madrona Chapter, Anacortes ... Escort: Gerald Guthrie
Grand Marshal -  Gloria Hodges, Hope Chapter, Oakesdale ... Escort:  Byron Hodges
Grand Organist -
Grand Adah - Elaine Weigel, Martha Chapter, Cheney ... Escort:  Dick Weigel
Grand Ruth -
Grand Esther - Marilyn Sorensen, Evening Star Chapter, Almira ... Escort: Don Sorensen
Grand Martha -
Grand Electa - Barbara Danforth, Waitsburg Chapter ... Escort: Bob Danforth
Grand Warder - Marcia Haukaas, Lackamas Chapter ... Escort: Paul Haukaas
 
Cards:
Kay Johnson
2403 Highland DR
Anacortes, WA 98221
 
Congratulations Sister Kay!  May you enjoy your year as Grand Chaplain as much as I have!  I so wanted to be there ... but circumstances prevented it!  See you at Grand Chapter :o)
 
 
 

 
FIRST CLASS MAIL IN MY MAILBOX ...
 
Clue #7
 
Have you heard?  The Carpet's flying again.
Here's a few hints as to where and when.
 
May's fourth Thursday it seems is the day.
If you drive just north of I-82 you should find your way.
In a city that also has the county's name,
A member you'll find that has OES fame.
** AGM Marjoe & AGP Phil
 

 
MESSAGES FROM MY MAILBOX ..
 
Thank you ...
Connie,
    Would you be so kind as to express the Vogels sincere appreciation for all of the calls, cards, e-mails and food at this difficult time. It has been so heart warming and comforting. We do belong to the greatest Fraternity on Earth. Again thanks to one and all. Lew would have been so pleased. Hugs
**  Laura Vogel
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 
 
Deputy Instructor announced
    At Lakeside Chapter last night (5/17) WM Diane McNulty was pleased to announce Pat Chapin as a Deputy Instructor-to-be.
** AGM Marjoe
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
05/19/07 Death Notices  ... Fayne Davis
    Fayne Davis, 86, of Zillah died Friday at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital.
    Mrs. Davis was born in Gravity, Iowa. She spent her entire married life living in the Zillah-Buena area.
    Survivors include her husband, Harold Davis; a daughter, Peggy Shaul, both of Zillah; a sister, Nadine Chisholm of Winston, Ore.; six grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
    Visitation will be from 1 to 5 p.m. Monday at Valley Hills Funeral Home in Zillah. The service will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Zillah Cemetery.
    Valley Hills Funeral Home and Crematory, Zillah, is in charge of arrangements.
** Susan Worthington
- - - - - - - - - - - -
 
Afton Chapter News
Hi Connie,
    Could you please put this in the next Stars of Washington?  Thanks.
   Afton Chapter No. 103 in Marysville will be having their Friend’s Night on June 13 at 7:30 pm.  Also, this past year Snohomish County had been challenged by Kitsap-Mason County to see who could collect the most pull tabs for Ronald McDonald House.  So, Snohomish County, bring all your pull tabs to Afton’s Friend’s Night or take them to Grand Chapter and give them to either Dottie Hardenbrook or Marian Smith.  It’s just a friendly contest, but we would like to WIN!!  Hope to see you all at Friend’s Night.
 ** Marian Smith
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
Corinthian Chapter news ...

Come join us for Corinthians 4th annual Spaghetti and Bingo Event!

When: Sunday May 27th, 2007

Dinner Served 4 - 5 pm

Bingo Following

Cost $6.00 ... Includes 1 Bingo card

Additional cards $1 each

Place: Wm. P. Dougherty Masonic Hall

3818 North 27th Street

Tacoma Washington

** Walter Fletcher

- - - - - - - - - - - -

 

Nevada Grand Lodge Grand Representative ...

    My husband, Arthur Reilly, was surprised at his Grand Lodge official visit last Friday with an appointment as a Grand Lodge Representative. It was totally unexpected, and an extremely happy occurance. He was appointed as the Grand Representative of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Nevada. 
    He is so excited! Arthur crafted Utah's Eastern Star resolution to recognize the Prince Hall O.E.S. chapters that are affiliated with Prince Hall Grand Lodges recognized by the Grand Lodge of Utah. As the resolution was written, each time a PH Grand Lodge is recognized by the Grand Lodge of Utah, the Grand Chapter PHA is automatically also recognized. 
** Laura Reilly, WM, Radiant Chapter #12, Salt Lake City, UT GGC
 


 
OES CHAPTERS CALENDAR
 
(as taken from your Ode Cards ... includes everything, hopefully, except those are listed in the Masonic Calendar.  It has been suggested that I highlight all the Chapters on the Westside one color and on the Eastside another color.  The Cascades will be the dividing point!)
 
 
Reminders ...  May 23rd - May 31st ...
 
May 23rd  ... (4th Wednesday) ...
* Illihee Chapter, Toppenish ... Stated Meeting; Long Form.  Refreshments:  Barbara Lynch & Linda Sutton.  Time:  7:30 PM. 
* Pine Tree Chapter, Kettle Falls ...  Stated meeting; Long Form.  Refreshments:  Dorothy Lawrence & Kay Andrist.  Time:  7:30 PM. 
* Tacoma Chapter ... Stated meeting honoring Memorial Day; Initiation; Long Form; Chapter Dress.  Time:  7:30 PM. 
May 24th   ... (4th Thursday)
* Cedar Chapter, Tacoma ...  Stated Meeting; Short Form; Initiation; Honor Courtesy Officers; Chapter Dress.  Refreshments:  Phyllis & Ed Hibben.  Decorations:  Margie Bunge.  Time:  7:30 PM. 
* Grand Coulee Dam Chapter, Coulee Dam ... Stated Meting; Short Form; Chapter Dress; Initiation.  Time:  7:30 PM. 
* Harmony Chapter, Waterville ...  Stated Meeting; Balloting.  Serving:  Evelyn Carlan & Winifred Pflugrath.  Time:  8:00 PM. 
* Zillah Chapter, Newport ...   Stated Meeting; Initiation of two candidates ... Mrs. Phyllis Gardner & Mr. Terence Gardner.  Serving:  Jeane & Mabel.  Time:  7:30 PM.
May 28th  ... (4th Monday) ...
* MEMORIAL DAY
May 30th ... (5th Wednesday) ...
* Stanwood Chapter ... Initiation Practice.  Time:  7:30 PM. 
May 31st ... (5th Thursday)
* IE PM & PP ... Monthly meeting; Small Banquet Room.  Fundraiser!!!  Dinner time:  6:00 PM.  RSVP Luci Bristow.   
* Laurel Chapter, Black Diamond ... Special Meeting; Honor Night for Valgene Orlando, Grand Representative of Puerto Rice in WA.  Chairman:  Jeannette Carroll.  Time:  7:30 PM.    
 
Disclaimer "Calendar of Events like the weather, is subject to change"
 

 
MAY MASONIC FAMILY CALENDAR ...
OES:  Events with Worthy Grand Matron
GL:  Events with the Grand Master
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. 
 

 

STANDARD WORK COMMITTEE REPORT

 

Worthy Grand Patron and members of the Grand Chapter of Washington:

 

            The Standard Work Committee of the Grand Chapter of Washington is directed to meet and review the changes made to the Ritualistic work of the Order at the Triennium Session of the General Grand Chapter and present in resolution form the changes necessary to bring the Grand Chapter into conformity.  The committee met and communicated by email over a several week period and have presented those changes that alter or modify the intent of the previous Book of Instruction.  While you will find many changes in the new publication, most are to expand, add emphasis and clarify information already in use.  Additionally, we combined, rewrote and renumbered some sections.  While completely re-written, few substantial changes were made.

 

            The following are the recommended changes to be brought before the membership for consideration.  While the references made in this report will refer to the location in the 2004 (yellow) Book of Instruction, they may appear in a different location with the printing of the 2007 edition.

 

  1. Page 1, Item 4, currently reads:  “It is not permissible to weave the Labyrinth at any time, except during the ceremony of initiation.”

Change to read:  “It is not permissible to weave the Labyrinth at any time, except during the ceremony of initiation or when exemplifying work at the Official Visit of the Worthy Grand Matron, ritual competition at the annual session of Grand Chapter, or instruction.

 

  1. Page l, Item 6, currently reads:  “No part of the Ritualistic Work (including the Secret Work) shall be copied or recorded.  All Ritualistic work should be committed to memory.”

Change to read: “No part of the Ritualistic Work (including the Secret Work) shall be copied or recorded or handwritten or duplicated in any other form (Ritual, p. 165).  All Ritualistic Work should be committed to memory.

 

  1. Page 1, Item 7, currently reads:  “Meetings shall be opened in long form at least four times a year.

Change to read:  “Meetings shall be opened in long form at least four times per year, which can include the Official Visit for the Chapter that does the opening.”

 

  1. Page l, Item 11, currently reads:  “The printing of the Tribunal Committee names on the ode cards is optional.

Change:  Delete in its entirety.

 

  1. Page 2, Item 13, currently reads:  “Honor nights for Grand Representatives, Deputy Instructors, and/or any other member, who is to be specially honored by the Chapter, excluding Grand Officers, shall be held at a regular stated meeting for a Chapter meeting twice a month, or may be held at a special meeting for a Chapter meeting once a month.  This restriction shall not apply to a Chapter wishing to honor groups of elective officers or other groups of members.  No deviation is allowed in proving, opening or closing ceremonies.  If the Chapter has been recessed to permit non-members to enter, it must be called back to order, non-members having retired, and closed in Ritualistic form.  Former Grand Representatives or Past Deputy Instructors are not introduced with the present Grand Representatives of Deputy Instructors.”

Change to read:  “Honor nights for Grand Representatives, Deputy Instructors and/or any other member, who is to be specially honored by the Chapter, excluding Grand Officers, may be held at a special meeting if so voted on by the Chapter.  The same rule applies to a Chapter wishing to honor groups of elective officers or other groups of members.  No deviation is allowed in proving, opening or closing ceremonies.  If the Chapter has been recessed to permit non-members to enter, it must be called back to order, non-members having retired, and closed in Ritualistic form.  Former Grand Representatives or Past Deputy Instructors are not introduced with the present Grand Representatives or Deputy Instructors.”

 

  1. Page 2, Item 21, ADD new 21.  “5O-Year Member Pin Presentation – One time only, at the time of presentation, a member receiving a 50-year membership pin is to be presented west of the Altar, then escorted through the Labyrinth to the East where they are to be presented with their pin, the Chapter called up and the Grand Honors given to the recipient."

 

  1. Page 3, Item 10, currently reads:  “To open or close the Bible without ceremony the Worthy Matron raps up the Chapter, and the Conductress enters the Labyrinth in the usual manner.  She opens or closes the Bible without a sign or bow, steps back from the Altar, and returns to her station in the same manner.  The Worthy Matron then seats the Chapter.  Star Points do not turn toward Altar.  If there is an Altar light, it shall be turned on after the Bible is opened during Ritualistic Opening and turned off after the Bible is closed during Ritualistic Closing.”

Change to read:  To open or close the Bible without ceremony the Worthy Matron raps up the Chapter.  The Star Points turn in to face the Altar, the Conductress enters the Labyrinth, and the Attitude of Reverence is assumed; all in the usual manner.  The Conductress opens or closes the Bible without a sign or bow, steps back from the Altar, and returns to her stations in the usual manner.  The Star Points face forward when she leaves the Labyrinth.  The Worthy Matron then seats the Chapter.  The Altar light remains on when the Bible is closed without ceremony.  See also BOI, General Information, paragraph 9.”

 

  1. Page 9, Item 6, currently reads:  “The salute is made by placing the right hand over the heart.”

Change to read:  “The salute is given when the flag is lifted from the stand (follow the lead of the Worthy Patron) and is made by standing at attention and placing the right hand over the heart.”

 

  1. Page 10, Item 2, currently reads:  “Members will be introduced only once, at their highest office.”

Change to read:  Members will be introduced only once, at their highest title.  Exception: All escorts (Part 2, o – p) are introduced in their category, even if previously introduced.”

 

  1. Page 10, Item 4, currently reads:  “It is the duty of the Conductress, assisted by the Associate Conductress when necessary, to perform all escort work.  The Conductress alone gives the names when distinguished guests are presented to the Worthy Matron.  If more than one member is to be presented (following the General Grand Chapter Officer) the Conductress should not give the names but present the guests as a group.

Change to read:  “It is the duty of the Conductress, assisted by the Associate Conductress when necessary, to perform all escort work.  The Conductress should not give names but present the guests by group title only (even when there is only one person), EXCEPT for the Worthy Grand Matron, Worthy Grand Patron, Most Worthy Grand Matron and Most Worthy Grand Patron.”

 

(next issue ... more Standard Work... stay tuned!)

 

 
BLUE LODGE AGENDAS
 
 
 
 
May 23 (Wednesday)
* Arlington Lodge No. 129 ... Stated Meeting; Visiting Lodge: Frank S. Land.
May 24 (Thursday)
* Peninsular Lodge No. 95 ... Special Communication; 7:30 PM.
May 25 (Friday)
* North Hill Lodge No. 210 ... Degree Work .. Lodge will open at 7:00 PM
May 26 (Saturday)
* Bellingham Bay Lodge No. 44 ... Annual Ski to Sea Parade.  Bring your apron and walk in the parade along with the float. 
May 28  (Monday)
* Everett Lodge No. 137 ... Special Communication; 7:30 PM. 
* Fidalgo Lodge No. 77 ... Empty Chair Ceremony.  7:00 PM. 
* Lynden Lodge No. 56 ... Memorial Service for Masons at Lynden Cemetery.  9:30 AM.
 
If you wish to have your Blue Lodge Agenda in this section, please let me know!)
 

 

MASONIC NEWS
 

THE ROAD OF MASONRY

 

Men build a Road of Masonry

Across the hills and dales;

Unite the prairie and the sea,

The mountains and the vales

They cross the chasm, bridge the stream

They point to where the turrets gleam,

And many men for many a day

Who seek the heights shall find the way

 

Men build a Road of Masonry

But not for self they build

With footsteps of humility

The hearts of men are thrilled.

This music makes their labors sweet;

The endless tramp of other feet

The thought that men shall travel thus

An easier road because of us.

 

We build the Road of Masonry

With other men in mind;

We do not build for you and me,

We build for all mankind.

We build a road, remember, men

Build not for Now, but build for When,

And other men who walk the way

Shall find the road we build today.

 

Who builds the Road of Masonry,

Though small or great his part,

However hard the task may be

May toil with singing heart.

For it is something, after all,

When muscles tire and shadows fall,

To know that other men shall bless

the BUILDER for his faithfulness.

by Brother Douglas Malloch

 

 


 

 
RECIPES 
 
Easy Meatball Parm Hero
from Campbell's Kitchen

2 cups Prego(R) Traditional Italian Sauce
16 (1 oz. each ) frozen cooked meatballs
4 long hard rolls, split
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
 Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:  HEAT sauce and meatballs in 3 qt. saucepan over medium-high heat to a boil. Reduce heat to low. Cook for 20 min. or until meatballs are heated through, stirring occasionally. SERVE meatballs and sauce in rolls. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Serves 4.
Kitchen Clip:  For a kicked-up version of these heroes, serve on prepared garlic bread instead of hard rolls.
- - - - - - - - -
 
French Silk Pie

2 egg whites
1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar
Salt to taste
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup pecan pieces
4 ounces German's sweet chocolate
3 tablespoons water, coffee liqueur or crème de cacao
1 cup whipping cream, whipped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

TO PREPARE:  Beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar and salt in a mixer bowl until frothy. Add the sugar gradually, beating constantly until stiff peaks form. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla and pecans. Spread evenly in a greased 9-inch pie plate. Bake at 325 degrees for 55 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.
Melt the chocolate in the water in a saucepan over low heat. Let stand until cool. Fold in the whipped cream and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Spoon into the cooled pie shell.
Chill, covered, for 2 hours or longer. SERVES: 8
- - - - -  - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
 
Key Lime Cheesecake
 
My family loves my cheesecake and my key lime pie, so I decided to experiment putting the two together, and it's a hit. That is, if you like cheesecake and key lime pie :-) It takes a little bit of work, but the results are most definitely worth the effort.

12 honey graham crackers
1/4 lb (1 stick) butter
1/2 cup plus 2 TBS sugar, divided
4 8 oz packages cream cheese, room temperature
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup sour cream
1/2 cup fresh lime juice (from 4-5 limes)
4 tsp lime zest
4 large eggs (yolks and whites separated), room temperature
1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk

    Place the graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until they are crushed very finely. Place the butter in a microwave safe bowl and heat just until melted. Place the graham cracker crumbs, 2 TBS sugar, and butter in a bowl and mix until combined. 
    Adjust oven rack to middle position and preheat oven to 350 degrees. Using a 9" springform pan, place two large pieces of aluminum foil over the removable bottom, folding it under so that it is covered with the foil. Place the bottom into the springform and close. Now pull the foil up around the outside of the pan. (all good cheesecakes are cooked in a water bath, and the foil prevents the water from seeping in and dampening the crust, and it also makes it easier to remove the cheesecake)
    Place the crumb mixture in the bottom of the springform pan, pressing down with your hands to form the crust. Bake in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the crust becomes fragrant. Remove from the oven and let cool.
    Zest the limes until you have 4 tsp worth of zest. Cut the limes in half and squeeze them over a strainer into a bowl until you have 1/2 cup of juice. (Note: rolling the limes back and forth on the counter under your hand loosens them up and makes them much easier to juice) Whisk the egg yolks and the lime zest until it is tinted light green, about 2 minutes. Beat in the sweetened condensed milk, and them the juice. Set aside to thicken.
    In a standing mixer place the cream cheese and beat until smooth. Add the remaining 1/2 cup sugar and beat until dissolved, about 2 minutes. Add the egg whites and beat until incorporated, making sure to scrape down the bowl with a spatula (otherwise you end up with lumps). Remove the bowl from the mixer, and stir in the heavy cream and sour cream by hand. Then stir in the sweetened condensed milk mixture. Pour into the springform pan, and tap it lightly on the counter to remove any air pockets.
    Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan. Fill the pan with hot water until it comes up about half way up the side of the springform pan. (The pan will be heavy and tends to slosh around, so you may want to place it on the oven rack before you fill it with water). Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 325 degrees and bake an additional 30 minutes. Turn off the oven, and prop the door open slightly with a spoon. Leave the cheesecake in the oven for an additional hour. Remove cheesecake from oven and refrigerate. Refrigerate four hours at least, preferably overnight.
    To remove the cheesecake, unlock the springform pan and gently loosen until the side comes off and you can lift it from the cheesecake. Place a piece of wax paper or plastic wrap over the top of the cheesecake. Place a flat baking sheet on top of the wax paper. Place your hands under the cheesecake and invert it and the baking sheet. Gently pull the foil until it and the bottom of the pan are removed. Place whatever serving plate you wish to use on the bottom of the cheesecake, and then invert again, and you have yourself a key lime cheesecake. Please note that the water bath, while it can be a pain, is imperative in making a creamy cheesecake. The only cheesecake my in-laws ever at came from a box mix before I met them. After trying REAL cheesecake, they have yet to buy another box of that garbage. Enjoy!
 

 
JOKES
 
    Sitting at a table in the clubhouse after a game, Joe said to a fellow club member, "I'm not about to play golf with Jim Walsh anymore. He cheats." 
    "Why do you say that?" 
    "Well, he found his lost ball two feet from the green." 
    "That's possible." 
    "Not when I had it in my pocket!" 
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
    A man told the ringmaster that he was interested in joining the circus as a lion tamer. The ringmaster asked if he had any experience and the man said, "Why, yes. My father was one of the most famous lion tamers in the world, and he taught me everything he knew." 
    "Really?" said the ringmaster. "Did he teach you how to make a lion jump through a flaming hoop?" 
    "Yes he did," the man replied. 
    "And did he teach you how to have six lions form a pyramid?" 
    "Yes he did," the man replied. 
    "And have you ever stuck your head in a lion's mouth?" 
    "Just once," the man replied. 
    The ringmaster asked, "Why only once?" 
    And the man said, "I was looking for my father."
- - - - - - - - - - - -
 
    A woman from New York was getting her affairs in order. She prepared her will and made her final arrangements. As part of these arrangements she met with her pastor to talk about what type of funeral service she wanted, etc. 
    She told her pastor she had two final requests. First, she wanted to be cremated, and second, she wanted her ashes scattered over Bloomindales. 
    "Bloomindales!" the pastor said. "Why Bloomindales?" 
    "That way, I know my daughters will visit me twice a week
 

 
AND A WORD FROM YOURS TRULY
 
    Again -- not much time to chit chat!  But do want to tell you the GOOD NEWS!  Yesterday was the day of the long awaited Orthopedic appointment for Ted!  YAHOO!  Verdict?  It is a pinched nerve in his back ... and within three or so hours, an anesthesiologist had injected cortisone (believe it was) into his spinal column and  ... instant relief (almost).  Today has been his almost pain free day since last year on Veteran's Day when he fell down the steps!  It took up to Easter for the nerves to become so aggravated that he couldn't walk!  Anyway, Ted will get a follow-up shot again in mid-June ... and then if the pain comes back or whatever, it will mean surgery!  Guess his spinal column is something to behold!!!  But this is why we were NOT in Anacortes last evening.   Appointments with this Orthopedist take about 4 months and I don't believe Ted would think kindly of four more months of agony! 
    You notice that there are a few more reminders?  I received Ode Cards this week from Mary Ellen Sleeth (Mt. Baker Chapter); and Pam Amdahl (Pousbo Chapter).
    Remember ... If you send them via attachment, that is fine!  Saves on the postage.  YIKES!  It went up another 2 cents.  Sure makes emails a lot more pleasant, huh! 

    Until next time ... Hearty Patriot Hugs and happy thoughts. 

** Connie
P. S.   Real women don't have hot flashes...they have power surges.
 

 
IMPORTANT NOTE: Many ISPs and businesses mistakenly block e-mail newsletters as "spam" or junk mail. To ensure delivery of your newsletter, add chickade@povn.com  to the Contacts List or Address Book in your e-mail program. If you are using a work e-mail address, notify your company's IT department. Thanks! 
 
ALSO ... When you change your email address ... please remember to let me know, too!  I have a few of you with addresses which bounce  ... don't know if your mailbox is full or if you have changed email addresses.  I have nearly 1,000 subscribers so life gets a bit difficult on the days I send out the newsletter ... many bounced messages, mailboxes too full, etc. 
 

 
I do appreciate hearing from you ... with news of your chapter, etc.  Just send them to: 
 
Connie Shrum
Grand Chaplain, GC of WA
Past Matron x 2;
Secretary, Zillah Chapter #111, Newport, WA
Martha, Bethlehem Chapter #87, Deer Park, WA
Email:  starsofwa@washingtonoes.org
Creator & Editor:  'Stars of Washington'   Newsletter
427733 SR 20
Newport, WA 99156
 
The freedoms we enjoy today were paid for by others!  

DISCLAIMER:  Occasionally, there will be an error in these documents.  Your job is to find it!  Good Luck
 
God Bless!
Hearty Love & Patriot Hugs --
Connie