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SIR GALAHAD DRILL TEAM
This picture was taken at Weeping Water with Sir Knights at Order Swords in 2004 GALAHAD DRILL TEAM COMMUNICATIONS his from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Wednesday, August 26th, 2008
Greetings All,
I assume that you all received an invitation
from Robert W. Furnas Lodge to their lodge rededication and cornerstone
laying. I seem to have lost mine so if someone can forward it to me I would
appreciate it.
As the invitation shows we will rededicate the
lodge on Saturday. This is the lodge dedication ceremony found in your
ceremonies handbook. Please study this so we can carry out the task like
professionals.
We will do a cornerstone ceremony on Sunday
with the Eastern Star Grand Officers in attendance. It will be nice to make
them suffer through one of our long winded ceremonies. A nice long oration
with lots of intro's might be appropriate (just kidding).
Please plan to attend. September 13 and 14.
Thanks,
Joe
PS Please check out the dedication ceremony in the
book.
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Sunday, July 7th, 2008 Date: Mon, 7 Jul 2008 11:12:36 -0500
Leave it up to the women of our bunch. Did any of you notice
the Odd Fellows cornerstone on the Northwest corner of the courthouse
yesterday? Lori and Becky and Deb noticed it while standing outside. It was
laid in 1913. The Masonic stone was in 1912.
fyi
Joe
Good Monday Morning Everyone,
Just a great big note of thanks to all who
made yesterdays cornerstone/rededication of the Merrick Co. Court House a
great success. There were many local residents who came up to me afterwards
and expressed their appreciation that it makes your heart full. All of this
could not take place without the dedication and hard work of each of the
Grand Lodge officers, Commandary members and everyone else involved. Thanks
to all who helped with the set-up, tear-down and cartage of the
paraphernalia. Each of your dedication to the fraternity is an inspiration
to those who are around you.
Kudos to all,
Joe McBride
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Tuesday, July 1st, 2008
Hi Everyone,
Here is the lowdown for Sunday, July 6th at
the Central City courthouse. They will open lodge and receive the Grand Master
at 11a.m. Practice will be sometime between 12:30 and 1pm with the ceremony at
2pm.
The lodge is only about 2 blocks from the
court house so we may choose to walk from there. The ceremony will be inside
so Class A's with GL white shirts is the uniform.
I have been informed that Bill and Ben will
not be present. If there is a problem attending, please let me know ASAP so
that we can find others to fill in. A nice attendance is very important to
make the Grand Lodge and the local lodge look good.
thanks for your help, Knights Templar wear
Dress Blues.
Joe
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Thursday, March 27th, 2008
Hi Everyone,
The cornerstone bug is waking up again. I
hope most of you can make these work out.
Saturday, April 12 we will be in Giltner
for their new community building. It will be a little rushed but this was the
only time we could fit this in at all. I will set up a little early with a
practice set up for 3:45pm with the ceremony at 4:30pm. It looks like we will
have an American Legion flag corp, Jr. High Band, Lt. Governor Sheehey
(spelling), State Senator Dubas and the town committee. We will try to keep
this as short as possible so that Reg and Russ ( maybe others) can take off
for Utica lodge ASAP. There will be a barbeque and dance to follow. Big
celebration in a little town.
Monday, April 28th, 4pm is also tentative
for the new addition to the airport terminal in Grand Island. I will let you
know as soon as the date is final.
Let me know if there is a problem
attending.
Thanks,
Joe McBride
FROM THE EDITOR ON MARCH 4TH, 2008 Addendum to the Minutes of Mount Moriah Commandery #4 on March 3rd, 2008 This report was originally produced for Galahad Drill Team Page Mount Moriah Color Guard: Mount Moriah was asked to present the flag at the Installation of our Grand Lodge Officers by Most Worshipful Reginald Kuhn at their installation at Scottish Rite on February 10th, 2008. Performing that function was Sir Knights Tom Morrissey, Jim Batten, Richard Harris and Roger Miner. Any Sir Knight wishing to serve in this function, should make it known to the Eminent Commander. Grand Commandery Escort: On Thursday, February 21st, 2008, Sir Knights Tom Morrissey and Roger Miner from Mount Moriah Commandery #4 along with Sir Knight Bob Williams of Mount Nebo #11 served as Grand Commandery Escort for the Nebraska Grand Lodge at the Cornerstone Laying at the new Truck Driving School called The Harlan Building at Central Community College in Hastings. The Knights of Columbus Color Guard #0608 presented the Colors at the beginning of the program. The National Anthem was sung by Adams Central High School Madrigals. Mr. William Hitesman, Campus President, Welcomed the assemblage and Introductions were given by Dr. LaVern Franzen, College President, and Board Perspective was given by Mr. Wayne Sasges, of the Board of Governors. Mr. Rick Sheehy, Lt. Governor of Nebraska gave some very interesting remarks. The Nebraska Grand Lodge then proceeded with the Cornerstone Laying. When it became time to announce by the Grand Marshal from the four points of the compass that the cornerstone was laid in ample form, A very surprised group was blown out of their chairs by the horn of a new tractor from Werner Enterprises that was parked in the ceremonial area to emphasize the four directions. I believe that to be a first. To finish out the day, the ribbon cutting was performed by the Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors. After the dedication, lunch was served at the Hastings Masonic Center. Our hosts were Hastings Lodge #50 and Midwest Lodge #317 A.F. & A.M. On February 22nd, 2008, Dr. Wayne Vian of Ashlar Lodge #33 A. F. & A. M. Requested the Grand Lodge to lay the Cornerstone at the new Grand Island – Hall County Law Enforcement Center.Sir Knights Tom Morrissey and Roger Miner traveled to Grand Island to be part of the escort for the Nebraska Grand Lodge Cornerstone Laying representing the Grand Commandery of Nebraska along with members of Mount Nebo in Hastings, Mount Lebanon #6 in Grand Island, and other Commanderies in Nebraska. Seven Sir Knights in all and seven members of the Knights of Columbus making a fine escort. Groundbreaking took place on May 15th, 2006 and the move-in was accomplished on January 18th, 2008. The architect was Wilson Estes Police Architects of Mission Kansas and Chief Construction of Grand Island was the General Contractor. After the Cornerstone Laying, the Dedication Ceremony was performed by Pete Kortum, Captain, Grand Island Police Department as Master of Ceremonies and Gary Bennett, Chaplain, Invocation and Blessing. Speakers were Margaret Hornaday, Mayor of G.I. Bud Jefferies Chairman, Hall County Board of Supervisors, Steve Lamken, Chief, G. I. P. D. and Jerry Watson, Sheriff, Hall County. And Irene Abernethy, Hall Count Historian. After the dedication, a ribbon cutting ceremony was performed. Building Tours and Refreshments were offered.
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Tuesday , February 12th, 2008 Hi everyone, Following are the rough details on Friday, Feb 22nd cornerstone. Details will fall together soon. Thanks, Joe The cornerstone laying is at 1:15 pm at the Law Enforcement Center on East Highway 30 ( just East of the elevated Burlington Railroad tracks) in Grand Island. The cornerstone ceremony will be done in the community room on the second floor of the Law Enforcement Building. I do not intent to have the Jobes decorate the stone. We may need to use the gong again. Lunch will be at the Airport again. Lunch is in the community room in the airport administration building. It is not in the terminal so I will need to get you that information. IF you need more information, please call because I am on the way down town to purchase a “new” Masonic building. This calls for another cornerstone this fall. Wayne
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Tuesday , February 12th, 2008
Hi everyone,
thanks for a great weekend. Lori and I were
truly impressed with the turnout and the fellowship involved.
Ok, here is the scoop on Thursday, Feb.
21st at Hastings. Much of the info is on the attachment from the Master at
Hastings #50 Monte Malouf, Jr. As you can see they are having an open house
from 1400 til 1600 at the campus. I will try to be there to have our stuff set
up before the open house.(the day is pretty well messed up at work already for
me anyway). If we can have a quick walk through before hand it would be nice.
Those that can please try to be there and ready by 1500 (3pm). Class A's,
jewels and aprons required.
Looking forward to the big event.
Joe McBride, Grand Marshal
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on January 26th, 2008 Central Community College - Hastings Harlan Building Dedication Thursday, February 21, 2008 Open house—2:00 to 4:00 pm Dedication & Cornerstone Ceremony—4:00 pm
Directions to Central Community College CCC entrance is about 1 mile east of Hastings on East Highway 6. . . . Go through main campus to about ½ mile South on Technical Blvd to the HARLAN BUILDING on your right.
Flag Presentation ………Knights of Columbus #0608 - 4th Degree Ass’y National Anthem……………Adams Central Jr/Sr. High School Madrigals Welcome…...…………………Mr. William Hitesman, Campus President Introductions…......………………Dr. LaVern Franzen, College President Board Perspective….…….Mr. Wayne Sasges, Chair, Board of Governors Remarks.……………………Mr. Rick Sheehy, Lt. Governor of Nebraska Cornerstone Laying.....………...……..Nebraska Grand Lodge, A.F. & A.M. Ribbon Cutting…….Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors
Activities at the Hastings Masonic Center – 411 N. Hastings Ave.
Open Lodge (Blue Lodge Room)…………………………….1:30 p.m. Lunch after dedication………………………………………..6:00 p.m. Lodge #50 Degree Practice for Washington Ceremonial…...7:30 p.m.
Lunch Reservations Must Be In By Monday, February 18th Please phone Masonic Center Office at 402-462-5813 or Email to: masonictemple@windstream.net
Your Hosts:
Hastings Lodge #50 A. F. & A. M……Midwest Lodge #317 A. F. & A. M.
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on January 15th, 2008 Concerning the Grand Island Cornerstone for the Middle School
Hi everyone,
We start Sunday out at the Airport for
lunch at 11:30am. Go to the north side of the terminal to a place called
Afternooners. From there we will go to the Middle school for set-up and
practice followed by the ceremony @ 2:30pm.
The school is located approximately 1 1/2 miles
west of the intersection where Conestoga Mall and K-Mart are located. Wayne
promises me you can't miss it.
So far Stephen is the only one who will not
be there so let me know if you have any problems.
Thanks,
Joe
According to
Switchboard, the address of Westridge Middle School is 1812 From Russ Reno
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on January 11th, 2008 Concerning the CCC Cornerstone in Hastings
The original 2:00 p.m. time discussed, turns out to be the
time that they will have an open house from 2-4:00 p.m. The
dedication ceremony begins at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 21, 2008. This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Tuesday, January 8th, 2008
Hi everyone,
On Thursday,February 21st we will have a
cornerstone in Hastings. We will now have a cornerstone in Grand Island on
Friday, February 22nd at 1:15 pm (1315 hrs) instead of the 15th. Please mark
your calendars. I realize weekdays are little tough but this is when they
wanted it. Details will follow as they become available.
Thanks,
Joe
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Sunday , December 28th, 2007
Hi everyone,
It looks like the cornerstone wagon is on a
roll. February 21st, Thursday, we are scheduled to do a cornerstone at the
Central Community College in Hastings.
I realize that Thursdays are a little tough
but we could use a good showing as this will be a full fledged dedication with
the local dignitaries and the Lt. Governor in attendance.
Details will follow.
Thanks,
Joe
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Sunday , December 2nd, 2007
Hi everyone,
It sounds like Hickman Lodge is planning on
receiving the Grand Master before the Dec. 15th cornerstone at Sesostris
Shrine Center. I will let you know the time as soon as I find out.
This from Our
Sesostris Potentate, Illustrious Sir Bill Nelson on , December 12th, 2007 Roger, We're dedicating the building and since we don't want to
cut a hole in This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Sunday , December 2nd, 2007
Make sure that you have January 20th
on your calendars for a cornerstone in Grand Island. There will probably be no
receiving of the GM due to a lack of a lodge to meet in (sorry Dean, I know
this will break your heart). The time on this one will be early afternoon. TBA.
We also have two more cornerstones coming
up sometime in March.
Just keeping you informed.
Joe
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Thursday , September 6th, 2007
Hi everyone,
Just a reminder (thanks Kent Broyhill), the
Chadron Lodge will be hosting a cornerstone on Sunday, Sept. 30th. This will
be for the administration building on Chadron State College campus. This will
be an early afternoon event. I will send another detailed reminder later.
Just to make sure...There is
NOT a cornerstone scheduled for Sept. 16th.
Thanks,
Joe McBride
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Thursday , August 9th, 2007
Greetings Brethren,
As we all know the best laid plans always
go the opposite of what you think. I have been called to be a pall bearer at a
funeral of a local businessman on Saturday. Hence, Dave Watts has agreed to
step back into the Marshal's shoes for a day. Thanks, Dave!!!
The trestleboard hopefully will appear as
follows:
GM Dean Skokan
Dep. Gr. Bruce Baker
SW Russ Reno
JW Stephen Kennedy
Chaplain Randy Hart
Secretary Bruce Watkins
Orator Dale Anderson
Marshal Dave Watts
Custodian John Maxell
Tyler Dennis Rix
Representatives Doug Fausnaugh
Randy Ogier
Please follow Dave instructions and no one will
get hurt!
I'm sure everything will go great and I wish I
was going to Alliance instead.
Fraternally,
Joe McBride
Sir Knights: There is a laying of a cornerstone in Alliance on August 11th, 2007. Open Lodge at 12;00 with cornerstone at 1:30. The laying is going to take place at the new museum. Lodge is located at 123 West third Street. If there is anyone near Alliance who could make it to Alliance to escort the Grand Lodge it would be very helpful. I have something pending on Saturday that I have to take care of. Usually we are dressed in summer uniform with gloves, belt and sword. Roger This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Tuesday , July 24th, 2007
Hey everyone,
The details are finally here for this
Sunday at Wahoo. We will receive and open lodge at noon, followed by a light
lunch, practice and the ceremony will be at 4pm. The hospital is located south
of Wahoo on highway 77.
I will be at band camp all week so I can be
contacted best by cell phone 402-760-1212.
Let me know if you have any questions.
Thanks,
Joe McBride
Dress for the Knights Templar Will be Summer Uniform. Roger
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Wednesday , July 17th, 2007
Hi Roger,
I just wanted to give you the heads up about a cornerstone in Wahoo on July 29 (Sunday). I will let you know the details very shortly but I wanted to make sure that you knew about this one.
Thanks,
Joe McBride
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Wednesday , July 11th, 2007
Greetings All,
Thanks for all of your help and
participation at the cornerstone ceremony in Lincoln this past weekend. I
think Imperial Sir John was pretty happy with the turn out and efforts put
forth. I know that I was pleased.
Our next event will be a cornerstone at the
new hospital complex in Wahoo. This will be held in Wahoo on Sunday, July
29th. We are still working on the time but I would assume early afternoon as
usual. I will pass on the info as soon as things are totally set.
Thanks again.
Joe McBride
p.s. Please remember Barneston dedication on
Aug 4th, York cornerstone and dedication Aug 5th, and Alliance cornerstone on
Aug 11th.
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Tuesday , June 26th, 2007
Greetings everyone,
As most of you are aware, we will have a cornerstone
ceremony in Lincoln on July 7th. This will be for the new Parole Board
Building which is a John Vermass project. This is being sponsored by Hickman
Lodge and Tabula Rasa Lodge. We will meet at Hickman Lodge, 4641 Cooper Ave in
Lincoln for receiving of the Grand Master at 10:30am. A light lunch (finger
food) will follow at the lodge. We will then proceed to the building for a
practice at 12:30 with the ceremony starting at 2pm. The building is located
on the east side of 10th St. and Pioneers Blvd. We will probably have a grand
procession.
Grand Lodge officers please let me know if there is
any problem attending. Reg has already indicated that it is too far for him to
drive so he will not be attending. I will ask for a volunteer from the past
Grand Masters or will appoint brother Watts to fill his position. Past Grand
Masters please let me know your wishes on this.
Thanks for all of your help in getting these
ceremonies rolling and let's all work to make a great showing in Lincoln.
Fraternally,
Joe McBride
Grand Marshal
To all Knights Templar: I t promises to be a very Hot Saturday. Uniform of the day will be summer uniform. Bring Swords and Belt with White Cap. The Shrine Legion of Honor will be the Color Guard. Roger
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Tuesday , June 19th, 2007
Greetings everyone,
Just a quick note and update. Please plan
for the following dates.
July 7th at Lincoln (Parole Board Building)
July 29th at Wahoo (Saunders County Medical
Center)
August 4th Barneston Lodge Dedication
August 5th York Lodge cornerstone and
Dedication
August 11th Alliance cornerstone
Thanks for making the efforts to attend and
make these a memorable event.
Joe McBride
Hi again,
When it rains it pours. I just received a
call from Keystone Lodge and it looks like we will be doing a cornerstone in
Giltner on the new community center some time in August. The wheels are
spinning fast on this on so I will let you know more ASAP.
Thanks,
Joe McBride
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Tuesday , June 5th, 2007
Subject: Seward
Greeting everyone,
Sunday, June 10th is here and Seward will
be the place for the Cornerstone. Let's plan to meet at the USDA Center on the
very north end of Seward on highway 15 at 12:30 for practice. The ceremony
will be at 2pm. Uniform will be class A's with white Grand Lodge shirt in case
of too much heat. We will forgo formal receiving and opening lodge. Lunch is
on your own.
Unless it is very warm, uniform for Commandery will be Dress Blues or Class A's. Possibly we will all meet after the program for lite lunch.
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Thursday, May 31st, 2007
Hello everyone,
This is kind of a catch-all type email with
dates for upcoming ceremonies. There will be more to follow but this is a
start for your calendars.
June 10th Seward USDA Center (Vermass
building) Seward lodge sponsored
July 7th Lincoln State Parole Board
building (Vermass) Tabula Rasa sponsored
August 4th (still pending approval from
Barneston) Barneston lodge dedication
August 5th York lodge cornerstone and
dedication
Just keeping you informed.
Joe
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Monday, February 5th, 2007
Greetings All,
Ok. Change is a good thing. It ends up April 1st is
Palm Sunday so we are changing the date of the Grand Island Fire Station
cornerstone. Please block off Sunday, April 22nd for this great event. The
actual ceremony we know is at 1:30pm. Wayne is working on the full schedule as
I send this message so I will forward it ASAP.
Thanks for your understanding and cooperation in
making this work.
Joe McBride
Grand Marshal
Sir Knights: The Grand Lodge and Grand Master M.W. Scott Krieger would like to have as many Sir Knights as can attend Grand Lodge be present in Dress Blue Uniform to be escort for Grand Lodge Diginitaries on Grand Lodge Opening Morning on Friday, February 2nd, 2007. Take Due Notice Thereof and Govern Yourselves Accordingly. S.K. Roger Miner This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on Saturday, January 27th, 2007
I just wanted to let everyone know that there
is a tentative plan for a cornerstone in Grand Island on April 1st. (yes we
are April fools). I will send more info as it becomes available.
Fraternally,
Joe McBride
Grand Marshal
2006 ENTRIES
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on October 12th, 2006
You are cordially invited to the Laying of the Corner Stone of the Edith Abbott Memorial Library by the Grand Lodge A\ F\ & A\ M\ of Nebraska
M. W. Scott Krieger, Sr., Grand Master
Ashlar Lodge No. 33 A\ F\ & A\ M\
Grand Island, Nebraska
Sunday, October 22, 2006 – 1:00 PM At the Library Site, 211 North Washington Street
1:00 PM Welcome by Jay Vavricek, Mayor of the City of Grand Island Corner Stone Laying Ceremony – 1973 and 2006 Stones Acknowledgements by Dr. Michael Horn, President, Library Board and Duane Burns, President, Library Foundation 1:30 PM Tours of Construction Site Refreshments Courtesy of Grand Island Public Library Foundation Donations to Building Enhancements Fundraiser Gratefully Accepted Thanks to United Veterans Color Guard for their part in our ceremony
Greetings everyone,
As you all know the Grand Island Library cornerstone is to be Sunday, Oct 22. The actual ceremony is at 1pm. Lodge will open up at 9:30a.m (0930) with lunch at the lodge at 11a.m. (1100). We will have a practice at noon at the library. The library is just down the street from the lodge. I do need a head count for lunch and a reply from each of you for the trestleboard. Your favor of a yes/no and total number attending will be appreciated. Attached please find the official invitation from the lodge.
I'll see everyone on Saturday in Hastings.
Joe McBride
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on August 18th, 2006
Greetings All,
Wayne Vian has informed me that we can plan on
another cornerstone on October 22nd (Sunday) for their new library. This is
going to happen at Grand Island. We may be opening an old time capsule if the
library board approves the idea. Please mark this on your calendars and plan
to attend. More on this later.
Thanks, Joe McBride
Grand Marshal
From a News Editorial from the Grand Island Independent on Monday, October 21st, 2006 The cornerstone of knowledge Masonic ceremony puts library's cornerstone in place; time capsule to be included in construction
During the event, members of the Grand Island Ashlar Lodge No. 33 performed a cornerstone-laying ceremony, which contains traditions laid down well before the founding of this country. While history was respected and cared for, it underscored the thrill of near completion for the library's $7 million, 25,000-square-foot expansion. While the addition was just recently enclosed, library director Steve Fosselman said it's about time to start getting excited about the project, and when the Masons offered this time-tested ceremony, he eagerly agreed. "It was a great commemoration," Fosselman said after the event. "As I understand it, they'll be doing it for the new fire station as well." The ceremony, which took about an hour to complete, featured a good degree of symbolism and ceremony, complete with consecration of the cornerstone to be set at a later time.
"This cornerstone-laying ceremony is a symbolic one," said Scott Krieger, grand master for the Masons of Nebraska. The symbolism included pouring corn, wine and oil on the cornerstone to symbolize the hearts of the people, joy and peace, respectively; the use of a square, level and plumb to measure the cornerstone to represent morality, equality and rectitude; and the shape of the stone itself, representing the three dimensions of a person's life. The ceremony also included a time capsule that will be near the cornerstone in the final construction, and the revelation of its contents. The contents include a copy of "Chicken Soup for the Soul," a copy of the Grand Island's City Council's goals, a city map, a guide to Grand Island from the Convention and Visitors Bureau, several articles from The Grand Island Independent, a copy of the library's budget, construction documents, and a copy of the program from Saturday's Nebraska versus Texas football game -- the article that drew the loudest reaction from the crowd of 70 or so gathered.
The ceremony also included speeches from Grand Island Mayor Jay Vavricek and Nebraska Gov. Dave Heineman, who extolled the virtues of libraries in general and spoke of how a large library in a city the size of Grand Island would affect the lives of others. "This project will have a lasting impact on the residents of every age," Heineman said. "I'm confident this new library will inspire new ideas ... and serve as a gathering place for many years to come." Indeed, tours of the recently enclosed construction seemed to reinforce the idea of a meeting place. Fosselman gave tours, which included a large circular room that will serve as the "new book" area, and several meetings rooms that will serve a number of purposes. The new construction has been a long time coming, which is something the Masons recognized. Kent Broyhill, grand orator for the Grand Lodge of Nebraska, said during the ceremony that it's not easy to keep your eye on a long-term goal, but the results can be fantastic. "You're here at this milestone today because this is exactly where you wanted to be," Broyhill said. "You set your goals, you worked toward your goals and you met your goals. We salute you for that." End of Story. Editorial from Masonry Nebraska On this day, October 22nd, 2006, An occasional Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Nebraska was opened at Grand Island Ashlar Lodge #33 at 10:00 p.m. A lunch and practice followed. It was a clear and cold day so the Cornerstone Ceremony was held inside the Library. The Cornerstone Ceremony commenced with the Color Guard of the American Legion posting the Colors. Escorting the Grand Lodge Officers were Six members of the Knights of Columbus and five Knights Templar of Nebraska forming a guard with Present Swords. The Grand Lodge Officers took their stations and completed the Cornerstone Ceremony. This was followed by an address by the Governor of the State of Nebraska, Gov. Dave Heineman. A speech was then given by the Mayor of Grand Island, Mayor Jay Vavricek. The Director of the Library Fosselman was next and addressed the group and followed with a tour of the new library. A Reception for everyone followed. It was also noted in the program that the original Cornerstone was laid in 1973 and the artifacts contained in the casket was displayed in a showcase. r.w.m
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on August 14th, 2006 Thedford Court House Cornerstone
Greetings All,
As you all should know, Seneca Lodge @ Thedford
is hosting a cornerstone for there new Thomas County Courthouse in Thedford.I
might add that Platte Valley Lodge from North Platte will be helping the
brothers at Thedford with this event. This is being held on Sunday, August
27th at Thedford.Timeline is as follows:
Noon: Open Lodge followed by a light lunch
(this kind of rushes things but they wanted to avoid church activities if at
all possible).
1pm: Practice at the courthouse
2pm: Ceremony
I realize that Thedford is a long way for most
of us but let's please make a good showing that could be a nice boost for this
little lodge in the middle of the Sandhills.
Thanks for all of your help,
Joe McBride
Grand Marshal
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on August 9th, 2006 Thedford Court House Cornerstone
Greetings Everyone,
I wanted to make sure that you knew we were having a cornerstone in Thedford, NE on August 27th (Sunday). I was in hopes that we might have a few members of the Commandery present to assist us. Roger Galusha is the main contact @ Thedford at this point and I believe he is a member of the Commandery as well.
We will be doing this shortly after lunch. I will get
you the details asap. I'm sorry for the short notice but my computer crashed
and I lost a lot of info so I'm playing catch up as we speak.
Thanks for all of your help, Fraternally, Joe McBride
Grand Marshal
This from Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride on May 4th, 2006 Thedford Court House Cornerstone Greetings everyone, We have just added a cornerstone in Thedford for their new
court house. Please add this to your date books, pda's or write the
message on the wall. Joe Concerning Good Samaritan Kid's Ark Preschool-Daycare Center We do have a date of April 18th, 2006. Yes, this I have just really finalized this as of this morning,
March 24th, 2006.
Fraternally, This from W.B. Joe McBride 0n March 29th, 2006 Greetings All,
Good Samaritan Kid's Ark Preschool-Daycare Center The day dawned somewhat cloudy with a chance of rain. The Cornerstone setting was outside but we figured we could get the ceremony over before any moisture. The groups lined up on the west sidewalk At 10:30 a.m. Tehama Legion of Honor was to present the flags, followed by the Knights Templar of Nebraska as Escort Guard. The Escort Guard was to escort Hastings Lodge #317 followed by The Grand Master of Masons of Nebraska M.W.M. Scott Krieger and The Grand Lodge Officers of Masons of Nebraska.
The Grand Master is escorted through the lines
The Children, Teachers, Parents, and 317 Lodge Members of Kid's Ark Pre-School Day-Care Center
Left - Beginning of Cornerstone Ceremony with participants in place. Right - The Mayor of Hastings ask that the Cornerstone be layed in accordance with the ancient custom by the Grand Lodge of Nebraska. He is shown here with M.W.Master Scott Kreiger and W.B. Arthur Dye of Lodge #317
Left - Children of the Good Samaritan Kid's Arc Day-Care Decorate the Stone. Right- Our Grand Marshal, W.B. Joe McBride, declares that the stone is layed in ample form. He is shown here with the Grand Master and members of Hastings Lodge #317. Shortly after the Cornerstone Ceremony, rain started to fall and the assemblage moved inside to complete the dedication.
Left - The representative of the Kid's Arc spoke to the assemblage gathered. She is shown here with Officers of the Grand Lodge of Nebraska. Right - W.B. E. David Watts as Grand Lodge Orator gave a very fine paper on Cornerstones. The oration is shown on the Grand Lodge Page of this Website. R.W.M.
THIS FROM R. E. GRAND COMMANDER FRED WAY
Dear Roger:
I need some help, if possible.
I have received a letter from Grand Master, Ivan Vrtiska,
requesting that some Sir Knights carry the flags of other jurisdictions at the
opening of Grand Lodge on Friday, Feb.3 at 8:30 am. I was wondering if you
could contact some Sir Knights in the Lincoln area to see if they would be
able to help. Of course, they would need their uniform and be able to carry
flags.
I REALLY appreciate any help that you can give me. I
need to let Ivan know ASAP if the Commandery will be able to do this for him.
THANK; Fred
The Grand Commandery of Nebraska is sponsoring a drill team for the purpose of fielding a drill team for competition and public ceremonies. Some sixty years ago, Nebraska had many drill teams. As our numbers dwindled and our Sir Knights aged, we had to give up our drill teams. As our Grand Lodge A:.F:. & A:.M:. of Nebraska has had many Cornerstone Ceremony's and has asked the Sir Knights of Nebraska to be escort, we have needed to have Sir Knights who would perform that duty and have personal who also could stand as Standard Guard and present the flags of our country at many openings. Our Grand Master of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America, Sir Knight Kenneth Fischer has challenged every Grand Commandery to sponsor a drill team for the purpose of competition which is held every three years at the Triennial of the Grand Encampment. In the fall of 2006, the Grand Encampment is to be held at Houston, Texas. If we are not proficient at that time we will prepare for 2009. To help fill our drill team, he has allowed us to ask our DeMolay Chapters to help in this endeavor. The only restrictions he has is that all participants need to be Knights Templar when we compete. We also need to be in class A's or Dress Blues when we compete. If slings are worn or belts are worn, all S. K.'s need to be in the same uniform. We can obtain swords, and help out with the chapeaus. Dress uniforms are not that expensive. Many of us enjoy the precision of marching and the sword work. The sword manual we use is from the United States Navy Manual. We presently have a Drill Captain and we meet on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month at the Masonic Temple, 1635 L Street in Lincoln, Nebraska, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Anyone who would like to join us for drill, fellowship and become more disciplined, contact me, Roger Miner, at 421-1674 in Lincoln, or Marlin Palasek, at 596-1670 in Omaha. It would be very good for both organizations to begin working together for the common good. Practice Schedule 2005
Note drill change from Sunday, March 13th to Sunday, March 6th, 2005 This is a tentative schedule. Occasionally, we will have to work together with activities of other bodies using the temple. Also, due to Cornerstone Ceremonies from the Grand Lodge, we may be asked to help and these will be added to the schedule. CORNERSTONE SCHEDULE SCROLL DOWN FOR THE LATEST CORNERSTONE LAYING The following is from the Cornerstone Schedule of W.B. Dave Watts, Grand Marshal of the Grand Lodge of Nebraska:
Cornerstones pending - Elkhorn, Schuyler, Phillips, Seward, Nelson, Fremont, Lexington, Wilcox, and Chadron as well as others who are asking. David also adds to please note the above dates and let him know if you have any questions. Also, keep in mind any building projects in your communities that qualify for cornerstones and let him know. Looking forward to another great year, Dave Watts, Grand Marshal 402-470-2775 and 402-499-7440 E-mail - Dave Watts - davew@wattselectriccompany.com
This e-mail from W.B. Dave Watts on October 20th, 2005 Greetings,
The Following is an e-mail from W.B. David Watts August 6th, 2005 Concerning the Fremont Eastern Star Home for Children on Sunday, August 14th, 2005 Greetings, We will be dedicating a cornerstone for the
new Learning Center
The next scheduled cornerstone is the rededication of the From W.B. Dave Watts, Grand Marshal Greetings, Oliver Lodge #38 is located
on the N.W. corner of the
Hi All,
A BIG THANK YOU to WB Dave for all the work he did in setting up and organizing the Ceremony. It was no easy job with all the calls he made to insure a good showing of Masons representing Grand Lodge. The support of Oliver Lodge No. 38, Seward; Blue River Lodge No. 30, Milford and Utica Lodge No. 96 was perhaps better than any I've seen. Attendance was more than I've ever seen and appreciation was among the top. It was a great day of Nebraska Masonry. If you missed it, you missed a great celebration. It is good to see the support and
participation of the Masonic Family in A large thank to all those that attended and
participated in making this a very special day for Nebraska Masonry. I also
wish to extend a special thank you to PGM's MWB Phil Lorenzen, MWB Jerry
Rittenburg, MWB Jim Brown and to WB Tom Spunaugle for filling the spots of Grand
Lodge Officers, we needed you and we appreciate your continued dedication to
Masonry. Fraternally, Ivan Ivan A. Vrtiska, Grand Master
Juniata Elementary School Addition April 22nd, 2005 Received March 28th, 2005, from E. David Watts, Grand Marshall Greetings, Knights Templar Uniform Class "A" Uniform
or Dress Blues. Juniata Cornerstone Ceremony Editorial After opening Grand Lodge at Hastings Masonic Temple, at 12:00 p.m., the participants of the Cornerstone Ceremony met at the Juniata Elementary School for the purpose of practice at 1:00 p.m. The ceremony began at 2:00 p.m.
The participants in the procession were as follows: The V.F.W., Knights Templar, The Grand Lodge Officers, and other Masons from Hastings Lodges then all of the children from the Juniata Elementary School With the V.F.W. posting the colors, everyone said the Pledge of Allegiance after which the children sang the National Anthem. There were over 100 students ranging from 5 to 12 year olds and better voices were never heard. Our Grand Chaplain then gave a prayer.
The cornerstone ceremony then proceeded and midway through the program, the children gave us another song. The children sat on the Gym floor and the line stretched the full length of the Gym six children deep. Hardly a sound was heard from them during the hour long ceremony. They were very well mannered.
The Girl Scouts were invited to decorate the stone with flowers. At the end of the ceremony, the children of Juniata Elementary presented us with another lively song.
The Grand Master introduced his officers, and other members who participated in the ceremony. He introduced members of the school board. The principal of the school then introduced thirty or more teachers and staff members who were present. The assemblage was then permitted to view the addition and to enjoy cookies, coffee, and ice tea. For those of you who have not been privileged to view a cornerstone laying, please do so and enjoy this learning experience that these fine children experienced. R.W.M.
April 24th, 2005 Received March 28th, 2005 from E. David Watts, Grand Marshal Greetings, E-Mail date April 20th, 2005 Greetings,
W.B.Dave:
We will be short some Sir Knights from Lincoln as they
will be in Branson Missouri at a Veterans Reunion. Hopefully we can get some
of Western Nebraska Sir Knights to take care of this. I will post this on the
Drill Team Website.
Roger
This from W.B. David Watts our Grand Marshal Thanks Roger,
This from W. B. Dave Watts on June 29th, 2005 concerning the rededication of the Seward County Courthouse:
Greetings, Open House at Masonic Temple September 11, 2005 This e-mail from W.B. Dave Watts on October 20th, 2005 Greetings, This from W.B. Dave Watts on November 14th, 2005 Greetings, This from W.B. Dave Thienel, Secretary, Cement Lodge #211 A.F.& A.M. Hello Brothers, The dinner location is the American Legion
Club. Exactly one block north of CASEY's Store on the north side of 9th Street. The new Firehall is located on West Green
Street just east of Highway #11, north side of street. Nov. 20 Wood River Fire Hall This from Dave Watts
on November 23rd, 2005 This from W. B. Dave Watts concerning the Cornerstone Laying at the ASCS Building in Minden on Sunday, December 11th, 2005, and I quote:
Hi Roger,
Minden will be at 2:00 p.m. with
practice at 1:00 p.m.
As far as I know there are no
plans for dinner or opening Lodge
prior to the ceremony. Because
it's in Minden and Rob Morris Lodge in Kearney is handling it, we decided it's
just easier to start in Minden and go right into the ceremony.
Dave Watts This from Dave Watts on December 8th, 2005
Greeting,
It was a balmy 40 degrees, as Grand Marshal W.B. David Watts exclaimed but it was not all that uncomfortable as the Grand Lodge assembled shows. On the right, the president gives the request to make presentation of the stone.
Lt. Governor Sheehy gives his keynote speech to the assemblage as Grand Secretary, R.W.B. Bruce Watkins and Grand Custodian Gerald Verbeek prepare the deposit of the casket.
The Grand Master M.W.B. Ivan Vrtiska from Omaha decorate the stone with the help of members of Rob Morris Lodge, the President of FSA and Contractor Imperial Sir John Vermaas look on. At right, W.B. Kent Priest gives the Grand Lodge Oration as printed on the Home Page. The Color Guard from the American Legion posted the colors as professionally as it was ever done.
The Ladies and Men of the Grand Lodge and Rob Morris Lodge of Kearney and others braved the cold weather and looked on. A fine Cornerstone Ceremony and fellowship was concluded with refreshments inside the building.
This from Dave Watts on 12-12-2005
concerning the Lexington Library Cornerstone
(Left) After the procession, the Grand Master of Masons of Nebraska, M.W. Ivan Vrtiska, welcomed the more than 400 present to the laying of the Cornerstone. (Right) He ordered the casket to be prepared by the Grand Custodian, W.B. Jerry Verbeek, and the Grand Secretary, R.W.B. Bruce Watkins to describe the items to be sealed in the casket.
(Left) The stone is tested by the tools of Masonry, and was found to be true and trusty. In earlier times the stone weighed more than 2,000 lbs., was placed in the Northeast corner of the building. All measurements of the building were made from that stone. (Right) Job's Daughters of Lexington decorated the stone with flowers.
(Left) Our Grand Marshal W.B. Joe McBride from Alliance pronounced the Cornerstone to be laid in proper form in accordance with the custom of Freemasonry. (Right) The Grand Lodge Oration was given by R.W.B. Russ Reno.
(Left) Our Nebraska Governor, Dave Heineman, gave the Keynote Speech. The Lt. Governor, Rick Sheehy was also present. (Right) The Architect who designed the beautiful and spacious New Lexington Library said a few words. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
