MORE LIGHT IN MASONRY - MY 2ND TRIP TO THE EAST

December 21, 2009 - FINAL ENTRY

2009-12-21T13:10:00.000-08:00

This will be my last installment to this particular blog as we have held our last Stated Communications for the year whereby we held elections and a new slate of officers will be installed shortly, including myself moving back to Lodge Secretary. My concern is now to have a smooth transition to the new administration. I believe the Lodge elected some fine men as Master and Wardens and I am determined not to interfere or inhibit the new Master (as I have seen some Secretary's do).

The only thing that was unexpected was the passing of another Brother to the Celestial Lodge above. Like the Brother I lost in January, who was scheduled to be my Tiler, this latest Brother came from my old Lodge, Sutherland 174. I knew this Brother well. I signed his Masonic petition. I gave him his three degrees. I taught him his Masonic catechisms, and had the honor and priviledge of raising him to the sublime degree of Master Mason. Along the way I got to know him as a good man and friend who I often broke bread with. We would enjoy a good cigar together, a good joke, and some good conversation. I will certainly miss him dearly. We will be holding his Memorial service at the Lodge on December 28th.

We had a good turnout for the last meeting of the year. In addition to the election of officers, we had some business to complete. As for me, I thanked my officers and presented them with small gifts as a token of appreciation for their hard work. As this was my last Stated meeting as Master I used this opportunity to discuss...

THE STATE OF THE LODGE

Brethren,

In every organization I have been involved with, I have found it important that the senior officer report on the condition of the organization at least once a year. This is similar in intent to the President's State of the Union address. As my tenure is coming to an end, let me see if I can sum up where we stand:

* MEMBERSHIP - 2009 represented a rebound year where we are starting to see our numbers go back up. I primarily attribute this to two things; first, the culture of the Lodge has changed whereby we are enjoying harmony and, as a result, people sense this and feel comfortable in our Lodge, both members and guests. Second, there is renewed interest in the fraternity thanks to books like Dan Brown's "The Lost Symbol."

* FACILITIES - Structurally, the Lodge building is sound. This year we have become more energy conscious. Consequently...

- We replaced our ancient interior lights with all new energy-efficient fixtures.
- We are replacing our windows in the Rec Hall, Administration and Library.
This helps to improve both energy efficiency AND security.
Next year, we will need to add insulation in the Rec Hall.

We have also replaced all of the tables in the Rec Hall thanks to generous donations from the Craft.

I can't begin to thank W:.Ken Giesow, PM enough as maintenance man; he has done an outstanding job keeping the Lodge up to snuff. We are also up to code now in terms of fire.

In the not too distant future, we will need to look at replacing the carpeting in the Lodge room, which is original, replacing our kitchen stove, and possibly sprucing up our entrance.

* PARTICIPATION - attendance at Lodge meetings was up a bit this year. The "100 Master Mason Night" was a special evening to remember. We also had several members attend our outdoor degree, training sessions, rehearsals, and the Festive Boards have been well received by the family and friends of Masons.

* FINANCES - We are living within our means (following the budget). Thankfully, we renewed our agreement with Neighborly Care who uses our facilities for charitable purposes. The York Rite bodies also remain a tennant.

Nonetheless, despite our prosperity, I caution the Craft not to rest on our laurels. These are strange and uncertain times economically, and we should never take anything for granted. We should always be deligently looking for new groups to use our facility.

* MASONIC EDUCATION - Our ritual work is getting better but we still need more people to learn the work. We have plenty of older Brothers who know the work, but this needs to be passed on to the next generation of Masons. I admonish our younger Brothers to step up to the plate as it is time for you to learn the work and replace those of us who quietly grow weary.

Other than this, Masonic Education has been a vital part of our program year. In 2009 we updated the Lodge's history book, and invented the "Dunedin Degree" to teach new Master Masons important history, rules and protocol in Lodge, thereby helping them acclimate into it.

* CHARITY - the Lodge continues to support Dunedin Elementary, Dunedin Little League, the Brooker Creek Preserve, the Dunedin Highland games, and the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office. Our "Bikes for Books" program at Dunedin Elementary was a first in our jurisdiction.

* SICKNESS & DISTRESS - We have had only a few Brothers in and out of the hospitals. Fortunately, we didn't lose too many this year. However, I mourn the passing of Bro. Warren Bundy who was to be our Tyler this year. It is hard to replace good men like him. We also lost Violet Bogert to cancer (wife of Bro. George Bogert), both were strong supporters of their Lodge, here in Dunedin as well as New Jersey. And now Bro. Steve Pelicos.

* HARMONY - This is perhaps our biggest asset at Dunedin. Political maneuvering has been replaced by friendly cooperation. This is sensed by others, which is one reason why people want to become a part of our Lodge. As long as we can maintain harmony and work together, we can overcome any obstacle.

* OTHER GROUPS - The York Rite continues to use our Lodge, but I fear their numbers continue to dwindle.

* OBJECTIVES - As you may remember at my installation, my mantra for the year was to be "different," to think outside of the box. We tried many new things this year, such as the Festive Board, the 100 Master Masons Night, the Dunedin Degree, and more. In other words, I hoped to change the culture in terms of challenging the status quo and seek new and imaginative ways for the Lodge to operate, thereby stimulating interest and participation. Did we bat 1.000? No, but we certainly hit a few out of the park and went down swinging on others. We now have a group of Masons, both young and old, whose allegiance is to the Blue Lodge, and plain and simply enjoy each other's company.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

I want to thank my officers and the Craft for their cooperation and participation this year. Believe me Brothers, all your efforts, both large and small, have not gone unnoticed. I believe we now have considerable momentum as we approach 2010 and our 100 year anniversary in 2016.

So why did I become a Mason?

I didn't come here because of my father and grandfacther were Masons. They never pushed me in this direction. But becoming a Mason made me cherish my relationship with them more.

I didn't come for fellowship; I already had a lot of friends, all over the world, but I made many new ones as a result of joining the fraternity.

I joined for the nobility of Freemasonry; hoping to find an order of men who relished honor and integrity; and to sit among men whose word is their bond.

But I found this isn't always the case; I have seen a lot of petty and unnecessary political intrique and corruption in my travels through the fraternity. So, in my mind, Freemasonry is an imperfect society.

Not surprising, I am often asked by friends, family, and other Masons, why I continue to do it? Why do I persist in banging my head against the wall? Why not just walk away from it? Again, it's because I believe in the nobility of the institution. I see what it once was and could be again if we only tried. I don't mean just filling out forms and paying bills, or marching around in white dinner jackets, but to practice True Masonry; you know: friendship, morality, and Brotherly Love. We have too many people out there who are consumed with thinking of Freemasonry as nothing more than a club. It's not. Instead, we need more people who want to truly seek "further light."

Thank you.

I hope you found this blog helpful and gave you some insight as to what goes through a Worshipful Master's head.

Keep the faith!

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

December 4, 2009 - DOWN TO THE WIRE

2009-12-04T12:25:00.000-08:00

When you hit the final month of your term as Worshipful Master, a lot of people like to coast. I don't see it that way. The last month ultimately represents the changing of the guard. Consequently, I want to have everything as clean and organized as possible for the next Master. This means taking care of all dirty jobs. In my case, it means making some final decisions regarding Lodge repairs. As we are fortunate to still have a tidy sum of money left over in our operating budget, we want to use it to replace windows in the Lodge and improve energy efficiency. Next year, we will also need to add insulation to our Rec Hall. We're trying to make the Lodge as energy efficient as possible. This is because we know Progress Energy is about to raise our rates by approximately 1/3 next year.

Also this month, I familiarize myself again with voting procedures for Lodge elections. Fortunately, I took some good notes last time. The biggest headache here is what to do if an election is close between two or more candidates. In our case, we take the top two vote-getters and have a run-off election between the two.

Other than the above, I have six things left to do:

1. Festivus - our year-end party which we are holding this evening. A great way to begin to wind down the year.

2. Past Masters Degree - normally this is a MM degree, but because we didn't have anyone ready, we're doing an EA degree instead. And since this will be held on Pearl Harbor Day, we're wearing Hawaiian shirts for the occasion.

3. Palm Harbor Holiday Parade - whereby we are joining our Brothers at Sutherland 174 and East Gate 355 in a Christmas parade. In the parade, we wear comfortable clothes and distribute beads. It's a fun time in a festive venue.

4. Retrieve the Traveling Gavel from Tampa Bay Lodge No. 252 (bring it back home to Dunedin).

5. Hold our last Stated Communications of the year - where I will report on the state of the Lodge, finalize last minute business, and hold Lodge elections.

6. Participate in the Installation of Officers ceremony for the new year. Basically, out with the old and in with the new.

Stay tuned!

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

November 17, 2009 - DEPUTY OF THE YEAR & "INJUSTICE"

2009-11-17T06:09:00.000-08:00

I'm coming down to the end of my term as Worshipful Master, but I still have a lot on my plate before I say "sine die." In a way, I feel like I'm now sprinting for the finish line. I still have a final Festive board to conduct (featuring a roast of our District Deputies), one last fund raiser, a Past Master's Degree, our year end "Festivus" party, and our final Stated Communications where we will elect new officers for 2010.

This past Saturday, we held a special dinner at the Lodge honoring the Pinellas Country Sheriff's Department "Deputy of the Year." This is the fifth consecutive year we have made this presentation. For details, click HERE. At the end of the presentation, we gave a standing ovation to the Deputy and his immediate superiors who were in attendance. I think they appreciated this gesture more than any plaque or gift we could have presented. To them, it was nice to know their efforts were appreciated and they had the support of the community.

Next - Last night (Monday), we held our Stated Communications for the month. We're still very fortunate to have a steady stream of petitions coming into the Lodge, which will keep us busy well into 2010. Aside from this, I felt it was necessary to express to the Craft how I felt about injustice. Consequently, I delivered the following lecture as part of my opening comments:

"INJUSTICE"

There is trouble brewing in Arkansas where Nettleton Lodge No. 657 had its charter arrested for some seemingly strange reasons. I am told this has resulted in a lawsuit against the Grand Lodge of Arkansas. This means there is now litigation pending in West Virginia, Virginia, and now Arkansas. The litigation in Georgia was recently dropped after the Grand Lodge reinstated the charter of a Craft Lodge. All of this is indeed unfortunate and an embarrassment to the fraternity as we certainly do not want bad publicity. But these extreme measures are taken because an injustice has been committed and our fraternity cannot seem to find a way to correct it.

I am often asked about the litigation between Jud Hiscutt, our past Junior Warden, and Pearl of the West Lodge No. 146 and the Grand Lodge of Florida. As you know, he was suspended indefinitely last year by Pearl of the West, and his appeal was denied by the Jurisprudence Committee of the Grand Lodge of Florida. To my knowledge, his litigation against Pearl of the West and the Grand Lodge of Florida is still going forward and in all likelihood will turn into another ugly stain on our fraternity.

Having studied this case closely, I can sympathize with Jud's position and would probably do the same if I was in his shoes. In my opinion, an injustice was committed against a good man and Mason, a 50 year Mason and twice a Past Master, and this disturbs me greatly as many of you know.

There are those Brothers in our jurisdiction who believe I should let it go; to let bygones be bygones, and move forward. I'm sorry Brothers, but because I was so close to this issue, I cannot. An injustice was committed and I cannot let it go, for this could happen to any one of us sitting here in this room. and it must never happen again. This is like saying, let's forget about the murders committed by John Allen Muhammed of Virginia seven years ago. "Come on, let's move along." I'm sorry, I cannot. An injustice is an injustice, regardless of the scale.

But our culture suffers from a short attention span. We have no sense of history. We forget too easily and politicians count on this.

How can we have harmony with injustice in our midst? The answer is: we cannot.

As long as this injustice is applied to Jud Hiscutt, I for one, will not forget.

For the younger members present, here is one bit of Masonic Education for you: if there is any severe differences between two Brothers, such as members who are quarreling, one or both Brothers should excuse themselves from attending the Lodge meeting, as their differences should not interfere with the harmony of the Lodge.

As for me, I have no intention of setting foot at Pearl of the West until this matter is properly disposed of. My presence there, or their presence here would only disrupt the harmony of the Lodges.

Thank you.

Frankly, I do not know how this was received by the Craft, but I thought it was important they understood where I stand on certain issues.

Just five more events before I call it a day.

Stay tuned!

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

October 31, 2009 - 1ST ANNUAL PISTOL SHOOT

2009-11-02T10:42:00.000-08:00

As you may know, I've been running a trap shoot tournament for the last nine years, which benefits our local Masters & Wardens Association scholarship fund. This year we raised over $1,300 from the event. While I'm well known for the trap-shoot, I began to get calls from other Brothers who owned handguns for a pistol competition. At a Masters & Wardens meeting held earlier this year, I asked what the general interest was for such a competition, Frankly, I was surprised by the overwhelming response to the idea.

Consequently, I contacted the current sitting master of Sutherland Lodge No. 174 (my old lodge) who I knew was actively involved with a local gun club. He and his officers are all very active in the club and the idea of forming a Masonic pistol competition appealed to them greatly and they readily volunteered to help out.

We scheduled the first competition for Halloween, October 31st, from 9:00am - 12:00pm. Frankly, we didn't know what to expect in terms of registration but we were fortunate to get approximately 30 Masons, friends, and family register for the event.

The competition went off as planned this past Saturday and everybody had a great time. In the process, we collected $411 for the Association's Scholarship Fund, which was given to the Association President who attended the shoot.

For more information on the shoot, click HERE.

CONCLUSION

Years ago, the Association's main fund-raising event was a fish dinner which we held at the Masonic Home in St. Petersburg. This was a lot of work; tents and tables had to be erected, deep-friers brought in; and a lot of cooking, presenting, and cleanup was required. It was an all-day affair that was rather tiresome. After all the work we did, our profits totalled no more than $400. This is why I suggested we start trap shoots, golf tournaments, and now the pistol shoots; they are relatively easy to organize, and brings in a lot more money. Heck, we even have fun doing it.

So, what's wrong with this picture? Nothing actually. However, the older Brothers were initially skeptical of such fund raisers as they had done fish fries, pancake breakfasts, and spaghetti dinners for years. Their resistance to these new fund raising venues eventually broke down as they grew in acceptance (and started to make some good money). The point is, every once and a while you have to break with tradition and try something new. Sometimes it works well, and sometimes it just plain flops. Nonetheless, we would make little progress if we didn't at least try to do something different.

Stay tuned!

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

October 20, 2009 - GOOD DAYS/BAD DAYS

2009-10-20T08:10:00.000-07:00

Last night, October 19th, we held our monthly Stated Communications. In my introductory remarks, I observed we all seem to have good days and bad days. In terms of good days, Dunedin Lodge seems to have been blessed over the weekend, for example:

* A Dunedin squad won the 8th Annual SunCoast Masters & Wardens Association Golf Tournament. This is the fourth year in a row Dunedin has brought home the winning trophy.

* A Dunedin Lodge Brother took "Best of Show" in the Palm Harbor Classic Car Show for his 1970 Road Runner.

* A group of Dunedin Brothers attended the annual Fort Clinch Civil War-era outdoor MM degree, hosted by Amelia Lodge No. 47 F.& A.M., just north or Jacksonville. This was the 9th year in a row I attended and, as always, the Brothers of Amelia Lodge did a splendid job.

These were all fun events, all of which raised money for worthy Masonic charities.

But with the good, comes the bad:

* Yesterday I visited a Brother at Tampa General Hospital who just had his second kidney removed due to cancer. Although the operation went well, he developed a clot on his left lung which caused complications and made his blood pressure dangerously low. The Brother is but 60 years old, and it is unknown at this time if he'll make it, but we are all pulling for his recovery.

* Our Chaplain reported that his 17 year old son had to go to the hospital for an MRI. They fear he has brain cancer.

* We were notified that a Brother from out of town had passed away and that it will be necessary for us to conduct the funeral service.

It seems you cannot have the good without the bad. I don't consider myself a super religious person, but I do ask that all Masons keep these Brothers in their prayers. I'm convinced such thought does, in fact, help.

My year in the East is coming to an end in less than 90 days. During my first tour of duty as Worshipful Master I was scrambling at this time to complete projects before the end of the year. This year, the projects are basically done, but we have some minor tasks remaining, primarily fund raising events. My biggest concern is getting our younger members to step up to the plate and take more of an active role in degrees and Lodge business. It seems the younger people are less inclined to learn the work than my generation and this disturbs me greatly. Nonetheless, I will persevere.

Stay tuned!

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

October 14, 2009 - RENDEZVOUS & INQUIRIES

2009-10-14T12:27:00.000-07:00

Since Dan Brown's book was published, "The Lost Symbol," our Lodge has already received eight inquiries for membership. I attribute this to not only the book, but to the momentum we have developed at the Lodge. Dunedin is now the lodge which everyone likes to visit. The building is in good shape, we have money in the bank, and we have harmony in the Lodge. Now we have people banging on our door to get in. Hmm... I wonder if these elements are all related?

Because of the inquiries and ensuing petitions, we have been doing a lot of investigations lately. Some people like to gloss over investigations and are eager to take in any warm body they can lay their hands on. We don't. We take this all very seriously and we want to be sure that the candidates know what they are getting into, and we want to be assured they will fit in. We do not see the Lodge as nothing more than a pit-stop to the Shrine. If all they want to do is join the Shrine, we encourage them to go to another lodge. It's not that we have anything against the Shrine, but we want Brothers who will maintain their allegiance to the Blue Lodge.

RENDEZVOUS

This past Monday a group of Masons met at the Dunedin Brewery for some libations and Brotherhood. The Brewery is normally closed on Mondays, but since we know the owner, he opened it just for us. This was NOT a Lodge sponsored event, just a fun get-together which is open to Masons, friends, and family. We invited our recently investigated candidates to attend and some accepted our invitation. This afforded them the opportunity to talk to other Masons, as well as allowed us to get to know the candidates better. All in all, it was a win-win situation as everyone had a great time.

Stay tuned!

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

September 28, 2009 - POLITICS & FREEMASONRY

2009-09-29T07:52:00.001-07:00

On Monday night we held our monthly Festive Board, affectionately referred to as "The Gathering of the Clan," which is not sponsored by any Masonic Lodge. It is simply a celebration of Freemasonry which is open to Masons, their families and friends, and potential candidates for the fraternity. I have written about this in the past, suffice it to say it is a great way for Masons to relax with their friends and family.

This month, our guest speaker made a presentation on "Politics & Freemasonry," something that is never discussed in Lodge. In his talk, he explained why Masons avoid the discussion of politics and religion in Lodge, stressing tolerance for the purpose of harmony. During his presentation, he referenced a recent article entitled, "In Search of the Hill's Freemasons," an entertaining piece which mentions the names of a handful of Masons serving in Congress.

The next Festive Board is scheduled for Monday, October 26th at 7:00pm. The guest speaker will discuss Firefighting Freemasons. Should be interesting.

Stay tuned!

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

September 21, 2009 - DAN BROWN'S "THE LOST SYMBOL"

2009-09-21T07:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday (Sunday) I finished reading Dan Brown's new book, "The Lost Symbol" which was released on Tuesday, September 15th, 2009. On its first day, the book sold over one million copies and the betting is it will outsell Brown's last effort, "The Da Vinci Code," which sold over 81 million copies and was turned into a blockbuster movie.

"The Lost Symbol" is an incredibly important book for all Masons to read as the fraternity is at the center of the plot. Actually, I'm not a big fan of Dan Brown's work, but the reality is this book is going to generate a tremendous amount of interest in Freemasonry and, as such, all Masons should read it in order to answer general questions that will inevitably rise from the general public.

After reading the book, it appears to me that Brown knows enough about the fraternity to be dangerous. There is considerable references to Masonic protocol and symbolism in the book. No, Dan Brown is NOT a Mason, and consequently he misinterprets a lot of what we do, but the average person will not know the difference. However, it does appear he did a lot of research on the subject via the Internet. The good news is, he debunks a lot of myths about the fraternity and describes Freemasons as good people who work towards the common good of man and are trustworthy. This will not go unnoticed by the public.

Pursuant to the release of the book, I noticed quite a few Grand Lodges around the globe were trying to capitalize on the book by making members available for interviews, presentations, and allowing public tours of Masonic facilities. I consider this to be an excellent idea for my own Lodge and implemented a Dan Brown page on our Lodge's web site whereby we will also make ourselves available for interviews, presentations, and tours. If all Lodges did likewise, this could become a public relations coup for us and our ranks would grow.

How effective is Brown's book going to disseminating our message? Consider this, on Saturday I received our first inquiry regarding membership. That's just four days following the general release of the book.

Stay tuned!

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

September 14, 2009 - THE DUNEDIN DEGREE

2009-09-15T07:01:00.000-07:00

Something that has bothered me for a long time is how we educate our younger Brothers in how to become a working Master Mason. Basically, we teach them Masonic catechisms, we raise them, and then we invite them to sit with us in Lodge where they know nothing and stumble along trying to find their way. To overcome this problem, I wrote what I called, "The Dunedin Degree," which is certainly not a substitute for the three degrees, but rather a complimentary component, which we delivered for the first time on Monday.

The "Dunedin Degree" has four parts to it:

* A brief history of Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
* The duties and responsibilities of the Lodge officers.
* Masonic etiquette.
* A description of other Masonic organizations in our area.

The degree takes approximately 40 minutes to perform and, instead of one lecturer, it is delivered by four different people who act as guides, thereby displacing the responsibility for learning the degree and causing greater participation in the Lodge (and makes it more lively).

Except for the first part, the rest is universally applicable for all Master Masons, at least those in Florida. Consequently, I am making the lecture generally available for anyone interested in taking it and tailoring it to their needs. I just ask that you send me a copy, so I can assemble a collection of degrees.

The degree is available in PDF format by clicking HERE. If you need a plain text version of the script (ASCII text), just drop me a line and I'll be happy to e-mail it to you.

As this was the first time we tried the degree, the meeting was well attended, not just by our Lodge, but by others in the area. All in all, I believe it went well and I think our younger Master Masons seemed to learn a lot from it. I only wish I had something like this after I had been raised.

For more on the degree, see our Lodge's web site, specifically:
http://www.dunedin192.org/news.htm#090914

Stay tuned!

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

September 13, 2009 - WHAT IS FREEMASONRY?

2009-09-15T06:49:00.000-07:00

Good question! The answer may not be as obvious as you think. Ask 20 different Masons and you might get 20 different answers.

In case you missed Sunday night's "Masonic Central" podcast, you might want to hear the episode where I was interviewed regarding this subject ("What is Freemasonry?"). You can access it at:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Masonic-Central/2009/09/14/What-is-Freemasonry

Also, be sure to checkout the following new eBook (free) from Bro. Greg Stewart. "What is Freemasonry":

http://www.freemasoninformation.com/2009/09/what-is-freemasonry-free-ebook/

A few years ago, I wrote an article entitled, "Bryce's Masonic Planning Seminar," which describes a planning process for Masonic Lodges; you can find it at:

http://www.lodgeroomuk.net/bb/viewtopic.php?id=1846

In the seminar, I ask the question, "What is Freemasonry?" Last year we tried this seminar in my Lodge and it was one of the most stimulating Masonic meetings I ever attended. One of the byproducts was the following definition as developed by Dunedin Lodge No. 192 (and posted on the cover of our web site):

"Freemasonry is a Brotherhood of men who share common values and are interested in improving themselves, their community, and the world at large."

You might want to try the seminar in your Lodge as it is a very beneficial exercise.

Stay tuned!

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

September 8, 2009 - HOT GAVEL & COLLEGE LODGES

2009-09-09T07:05:00.000-07:00

Two things of interest this week:

First, we moved the "Hot" Gavel to Clearwater Lodge No. 127 Monday night. The "Hot" Gavel is a big, nasty piece of wood that a Lodge must take to another Lodge. A minimum of seven members are needed to move it. We had twelve last night, and I was particularly proud that all of our elected officers were present, as well as two appointed officers. For more information on this story, click HERE.

The Hot Gavel is similar to the "Traveling" Gavel with one important difference; whereas the Hot Gavel is dropped off, the Traveling Gavel must be picked up by a visiting Lodge. Both gavels are sponsored by our local Masters and Wardens Association and is intended to promote inter-Lodge visitations.

Second, I came across an interesting story yesterday (9/8/2009), "Freemasons look to build presence at GW". Basically, Masons are trying to establish a Masonic Lodge on the campus of George Washington University in Washington, DC. This makes a lot of sense to me and is the first time I have heard of such an effort, but poses a serious threat to the Greek fraternities on campus.

I guess it was a matter of time for this to happen as many jurisdictions have lowered the age to join the Masons to 18. In my state, the youth organizations have been declining sharply, such as the Rainbow for Girls, Job's Daughters, and DeMolay. In my district alone, they have totally evaporated (and they're coughing up blood in surrounding districts). With this in mind, it makes sense to me that perhaps our future lies in our College Campuses, an area we have traditionally avoided due to the age limitations. Now that this has changed, placing a Masonic Lodge on a campus may very represent our future. This is an interesting story and one worth following closely.

Stay tuned!

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

August 31, 2009 - EA DEGREE

2009-09-01T06:46:00.001-07:00

On Monday, the 31st, we held an EA degree at the Lodge. For details, click
HERE.

All in all, it was a good degree and we had ample people in attendance, but not to the degree I had hoped for. I guess we are still experiencing the effects of summer vacation and "snowbird" Brothers who live up north.

More than anything though, what disturbed me was the lack of music in the Lodge room. Our organist is away up north and his position sits empty, which means meetings are quiet and lack pizzazz. I really believe a good organist is worth his weight in gold. In the absence of a good musician, I recommend playing music either by tape, CD, or MP3. Actually, I prefer the latter as you can better control what is played, how and when. For example, I love to play the theme to the TV game show "Jeopardy" when Brothers are balloting. I find it livens things up a bit.

Stay tuned!
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

August 27, 2009 - JOINT MASTER MASON DEGREE

2009-08-27T11:46:00.001-07:00

Last night the Lodge held a joint Master Mason degree with Sutherland Lodge No. 174, our neighbor to the north of us in Palm Harbor (my old Lodge). 33 Brothers attended. We should have had better attendance, but I think the rains discouraged people from attending. It was a good degree and I sat in the East for the first section. One of the things I found encouraging was how everyone wanted to pitch in to help. Virtually everyone participated in the degree, in both large and small roles. As for me, I am always glad to see 12 FC in the degree.

Dunedin raised three Brothers last night and Sutherland raised one; translation: it was a long night. Even though we started at 7:00pm, I didn't get home until 11:00pm. Everyone did their job which simplified cleanup afterwards and made it a fun evening. For more information on the degree, click HERE.

Next up: An EA Degree on Monday.

Stay tuned!
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

August 26, 2009 - LODGE NEWSLETTERS

2009-08-26T05:46:00.001-07:00

Last night I helped put labels on our "Trestleboard" newsletters which was then mailed out to the Craft using bulk rate. For this issue we sent out 233 pieces of mail. Frankly, I wish we could slash this number in half as most people today should be receiving it via e-mail (we produce the publication in both a PDF format and web version on our site). The US Post Office keeps changing the rules and regulations for bulk mail. Frankly, I think they would like to see it eliminated altogether. Nonetheless, we still have older members without access to a computer and rely on the paper version.

Some time ago, I wrote an article on how to produce a newsletter; click HERE. Basically, my message was simple: keep it informative, keep it upbeat, and always talk about the future, not the past. What is done, is done; talk about what's coming next. Most of the Masonic newsletters I read are about as interesting as watching grass grow and make for useful bird cage liners. If you are saying the same thing over and over again, why are you knocking yourself out trying to get something published that nobody is going to read? Keep it positive, and keep moving forward (not backward).

Something else, we publish a newsletter every other month which, I believe, is a suitable number of times to communicate to the Craft. I'm amazed by those Lodges who publish a monthly publication. In most of them you will find a lot of "filler"; e.g., a listing of past masters, some obscure Masonic story, etc. I'm not saying monthly newsletters are without merit, but I challenge you to do a little soul-searching and ask if this truly makes dollars and sense.

To download a copy of our latest newsletter, click HERE.

Stay tuned!
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

August 25, 2009 - WHAT IS A WORSHIPFUL MASTER?

2009-08-25T08:31:00.000-07:00

A couple of weekends ago I was invited to speak at the Wardens Workshop held at the Masonic Home in St. Petersburg for Zone 6 Craft Lodges (Tampa Bay area). One of the things I was asked to do was present a paper I wrote a few years ago on "Bryce's Tips for Your year in the East," which gives some suggestions for things you should be thinking about when you are a Worshipful Master. You can still find it on the web at:

Rural Lodge (Quincy, MA) Newsletter -
http://www.rurallodge.com/2NEWS/070608_Newsletter71.pdf

As I was returning from the meeting, it occurred to me that there are four basic elements to being an effective Master:

1. Leader - to set the direction of the Lodge, establish goals, organize your people, and follow-up on their activities.

2. Educator - to teach both the junior officers in Lodge management techniques and degree work, and; to the Craft overall by promoting Masonic Education.

3. Umpire - to fairly referee the business of the Lodge.

4. Entertainer - this is a bit unusual, but just as valid. In order for the Lodge to succeed, it is necessary for the Master to think like an entertainment in order to pique interest by the Craft. If the Master cannot stimulate interest, the Lodge will undoubtedly suffer.

All four of these elements are necessary for success as a Master. Think I'm kidding? Review this article with a Past Master and ask for his opinion.

Above all else, the Master must be credible; he must be able to turn words into action. This is a true test of his management character. If he cannot muster the Craft to action, he has failed.

Stay tuned!

Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

August 24, 2009 - HISTORY & MORE ON 100 MM

2009-08-24T11:04:00.001-07:00

Tonight, we attended a "Festive Board" in Dunedin; this was the first since going dark for the summer. I used this opportunity to present the latest chapter of our Lodge's history (from 1993-2009). This was one of the little projects I worked on over the summer.

The Lodge's history was started several years ago to commemorate the Lodge's 75th anniversary. I have been somewhat of a caretaker of it in recent years and updated small items in it, but as Master this year it became obvious to me some major enhancements were overdue, which is why I took it upon myself to write the latest chapter entitled, "RENAISSANCE (1993 - 2009)." This chapter talked about a difficult transitional period for the Lodge which we are still feeling the effects of. You can find it in the "History" section of our web page (see web address below).

Last week I wrote a paper describing how we put organized and put on last week's "100 Master Mason Night." You can find it at:

http://www.freemasoninformation.com/2009/08/100-master-masons-night/

Interestingly, the activity at the Lodge's web site has skyrocketed following last week's program. It evidently hit a nerve with a lot of people and generated considerable interest, not just in Dunedin Lodge, but in the fraternity overall. Sometimes you just get lucky!

Stay tuned!

Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

August 17, 2009 - 100 MASTER MASONS NIGHT

2009-08-18T11:55:00.000-07:00

Click on photo to enlarge.

DUNEDIN, FL, USA (August 17, 2008) - Dunedin Lodge No. 192 started its fall program with a bang, by hosting 126 Master Masons at their first stated communications after the summer break.

"This was an idea that originated from a Mason up north," said Dunedin's Master, W:.Tim Bryce, PM, "Basically, we wanted to see if it was possible to fill up the sidelines of the Lodge to capacity and, Wow, did we ever. Although we called for 100 Masons, we were pleased to see 126 show up."

In addition to members of Dunedin Lodge attending, Masons from around the Tampa Bay area joined them, including Lodges in Districts 20 & 21. Lodges represented included:

Clearwater Lodge No. 127 F.& A.M.

East Gate Lodge No. 355 F.& A.M.

Gulf Beach Lodge No. 291 F.& A.M.

Pinellas Daylight Lodge No. 385 F.& A.M.

Star Lodge No. 78 F.& A.M.

Sutherland Lodge No. 174 F.& A.M.

Tampa Bay Lodge No. 252 F.& A.M.

Tarpon Lodge No. 112 F.& A.M.

This communications also represented the first official visit of the District Deputy Grand Master, R:.W:.Chris Schlenker, PM, who is also a member of Dunedin Lodge No. 192. He was accompanied by the District Instructor, R:.H:.Mike Rhodes, PM, and the rest of his entourage. Also accompanying the District Deputy was R:.W:.Ed Street, PM, PDI, DDGM for District 21 (and an Honorary Member of Dunedin Lodge), and his District Instructor R:.W:.James Clouser, PM, PDDGM.

Also in attendance were several Masonic VIP's, including:

W:.Joseph Gondos - WM, Clearwater Lodge No. 127

W:.Emanuele Pepe - WM, East Gate Lodge No. 355

W:.Shawn Rae - WM, Gulf Beach Lodge No. 291

W:.William B. Garrett, Sr. - WM, Pinellas Daylight Lodge No. 385

W:.Robert Prevatt - WM, Star Lodge No. 78

W:.Frank Gaughan, III - WM, Sutherland Lodge No. 174

W:.Bill Yarbrough, Jr. - WM, Tarpon Lodge No. 112

W:.Derryl O'Neal, PM - President, SunCoast Masters & Wardens Association

W:.Glenn Banks, PM - Past President, representing the Highland Lakes High 12 Club No. 566

R:.W:.Richard Whalen, PM, PDDGM - GL Jurisprudence Committee & President, Dunedin Council of Organizations

25 first time visitors were also in attendance.

The program for the evening was upbeat and to the point. Featured was an apron presentation for Bros. Christopher M. Laughlin and Ryan Schlenker, the son of our DDGM. The apron presentation was delivered by W:.Bob Matheson, PM, Secretary of Dunedin Lodge.

Another high point was the presentation of a 70 year Masonic service award to Bro. Woody Register.

Other activities included:

* The Worshipful Master's introductory remarks discussed the need for more Freemasonry, not less (see below).

* An MS PowerPoint presentation featuring a brief history of Dunedin Lodge.

* W:.Shawn Rae, Master of Gulf Beach Lodge No. 291 presented the "Hot Gavel" to W:.Tim Bryce. The gavel is sponsored by the SunCoast Masters & Wardens Association and is intended to stimulate inter-Lodge visitations.

The Master's gavel was then turned over to the District Deputy Grand Master who conducted his program.

Following the meeting, many of the attendees adjourned to nearby Dunedin Brewery which was specially opened for the Masons.

"This was an interesting experiment," said W:.Tim Bryce, PM, "Hopefully, this will not only invigorate Freemasonry at Dunedin, but it will also stimulate all of the Lodges in our area. I cannot thank my officers enough as they all pitched in to make this a roaring success. In particular, Bro. Ilias (Louie) Vavoularis did an outstanding job assisting the Junior Warden in the preparation of the meal preceding the meeting. We simply couldn't have done it without his energy and advice."

WORSHIPFUL MASTER'S REMARKS - WE NEED MORE FREEMASONRY, NOT LESS - by W:.Tim Bryce, PM

My Brothers, these are indeed strange times we live in. The economy has been shaken to its foundation, people are out of work, companies are closing their doors, morality is crumbling, we have considerable political wrangling and backbiting underfoot, we have grave concerns about health care and the national debt, the country is still on guard against terrorism, and the nuclear threat has never dissipated. Obviously, we can ill-afford to conduct business as usual. If we are to survive, we must find new and imaginative ways to grow and evolve. Maintaining the status quo is simply not an option. As we have learned, stagnation means death.

The critics of our fraternity claim that Freemasonry has outlived its usefulness; that it is no longer in step with the times; that it is actually an evil society that must be stamped out. I vehemently disagree. Although we are an imperfect society with our own unique set of problems, I hardly believe we are an obsolete institution.

Now, more than ever, the world needs more Freemasonry, not less.

We need more patriotism and civic pride, not less.

We need more cooperation, loyalty, and teamwork, not less.

We need more religious tolerance, not less.

We need more Faith, Hope, and Charity, not less.

We need more positive examples of ethics and pride in workmanship, not less.

We need more Friendship, Morality, and Brotherly Love, not less.

To do all this, we need more honest and respectful debate, not less.

Yes, we need more Freemasonry, not less.

Maybe I'm old fashioned; maybe I'm wrong, but this is how I see True Masonry; a universal and beautiful concept embraced by men around the world. We must remain the example for others to emulate. We must practice what we preach.

And Brothers, consider this: If not us, who?

Our Politicians? The media? Religious zealots? Who?

Freemasonry is uniquely qualified to lead the charge. We are not a religious or political organization, we represent a cross-section of people from all social stratas, located around the world, with honorable intentions. We are well established and have a strong historical background. As long as we do not deviate from the basic tenets of Freemasonry, we'll be fine.

I therefore admonish all of you to redouble your efforts as Masons and help perpetuate this great fraternity and make the world a better place.

Thank you.

Stay tuned!

Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

August 13, 2009 - PREPARATIONS

2009-08-13T12:56:00.000-07:00

Even though the Lodge is dark for the summer, I have been busy making preparations for the remainder of the program year.

1. Last Wednesday we completed the Lodge Officers Training Program, a course offered by the Grand Lodge of Florida. Most of my junior officers attended the program which we held on the last four Wednesday nights. Although I can't say I was impressed by the content of the program (it needs to be upgraded considerably), it was good to get my junior officers thinking and discussing pertinent issues regarding how to run a Lodge. Most of the questions were true-false or multiple choice. I wish we had more problem solving exercises instead. Nonetheless, we got through it.

2. This Saturday I am scheduled to give the closing to the Zone 6 Wardens Workshop at the Masonic Home in St. Petersburg. I think this will be my fifth time for such a presentation. The workshop is intended to train junior officers aspiring to go to the East and is an all day session. My job is to let the attendees know where they can find supplemental documentation on Masonic subjects (most of which is on the Internet). I will also exhort the attendees to simply "try." I will remind them that they will inevitably make mistakes along the way, but they should never be afraid to try new things. They might not bat 1.000 all the time (they will undoubtedly strike out a few times), but they should go down swinging the bat as hard as possible. Every once and awhile they will hit one out of the park which will make it all worthwhile. But to do nothing, for fear of change, is to stagnate and watch the Lodge die. This would, of course, be criminal.

3. Lastly, we finalized our plans for next Monday's "100 Master Masons" night. The officers are all pulling together on this and pitching in. I have prepared checklists and programs, distributed agendas, and am worrying about a lot of detail. My main concern is to make this a fun and memorable evening. I refuse to let this be a boring meeting. Next week I'll report on the results. As of this moment though, we have 126 Master Masons registered for the event, but I think we may hit 140 before we're done. Fortunately, our Lodge Room can hold about 160. I will be curious to see what we end up with.

Stay tuned!

Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

July 24, 2009 - LODGE OFFICER TRAINING

2009-07-24T07:06:00.001-07:00

Last Wednesday, July 22nd, we started to go through the Lodge Officer Training Course as provided by the Grand Lodge of Florida (click HERE for details). The purpose of the course is to teach upcoming officers the duties and responsibilities of the Lodge officers and work through problems and ideas for improving the Lodge. This is not the same as the Master Mason Exams as implemented in Florida which are more akin to a trivia contest. Surprisingly, few Lodges implement the Lodge Officer Training Course, probably because not many people know about it. Nevertheless, I saw it as an excellent opportunity to get the Lodge's young officers together and stimulate their thinking.

This evening we were fortunate to have a dozen people present for the course, including a Senior Warden from a neighboring Lodge.

The training program is divided into three modules and, this evening, we were able to get through most of the first module. For the next three Wednesday nights, we will be meeting to complete the course.

The summer months, when Lodges in Florida are typically dark, represent an excellent opportunity to conduct such training courses. Yes, we are supposed to be on vacation, but it is also necessary to get young men up to speed in terms of how to run the Lodge. To my way of thinking, going dark doesn't mean going out of business. It offers us a chance to regroup and prepare for the second half of the Masonic year.

Stay tuned!

Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

July 17, 2009 - 100 MASTER MASONS NIGHT - PLANNING

2009-07-17T08:08:00.000-07:00

At last Wednesday night's Masters & Wardens meeting, I announced our Lodge was going to hold a "100 Master Masons" night on Monday, August 17th, which will be our first Stated Communications since going dark for the summer. Over the years I've noticed attendance at Lodge meetings generally falls off during the second half of the year, so I wanted to do something to create momentum going into Autumn.

Actually, the idea of 100 Master Masons is not mine. I heard about it through the Philalethes Society's Internet discussion group where a Brother from the north reported his Lodge tried this idea earlier this year. Although they called for 100 people, many more attended, thereby making it a success and a memorable night for all involved.

In planning our version of the meeting, I have several things to consider other than promoting the event: food for the evening, the program, and making sure everything is choreographed properly. In addition, our new District Deputy Grand Master, who is from our Lodge, wants to make his first official visit at this time, so I have to be economical with the use of our time so we keep it interesting for the attendees.

When I mentioned the concept at the Masters & Wardens Association, the general reaction was favorable from the other Lodges. If this works, I mentioned this might be a good idea for other Lodges to try as well.

In pitching it to the Craft, I said: "When was the last time you sat in Lodge with 100 Master Masons?" Down here in Florida, this is a rare event. Consequently, everyone seems to grasp the significance of the event and wants to be a part of it.

I will be meeting with my officers to firm up details next week, but I've got a good feeling going into this.

Stay tuned!

Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

July 9, 2009 - HOW WE SPENT OUR SUMMER VACATION

2009-07-09T07:31:00.000-07:00

Dunedin Lodge may be dark for the summer, but the Brothers of the Lodge are quite active. While on vacation, several Brothers took the time to explore Masonic sites along the way, including:

W:.Tim Bryce, PM and Bro. Tom Collias who toured Alaska.
Our Junior Warden, Bro. Mike Wilson and Bro. Ilias "Louie" Vavoularis who toured
Greece.
Bro. John Montemarano who visited the George Washington Memorial
in Alexandria, Virginia.
W:.Phil Bonds, PM who visited Rutland Lodge No. 298 in Macon, Georgia. According to Bro. Bonds, in June the members wear bib overalls denoting the surrounding farm lands they all work.

Below are photos from the Brethren. Click to enlarge them.

Masonic Lodge in Katchican, Alaska. *Click on photo to enlarge.*	White Pass Lodge No. 1 in Skagway, Alaska. *Click on photo to enlarge.*	White Pass is the oldest Lodge in Alaska. *Click on photo to enlarge.*
Original Masonic Temple in Fairbanks, Alaska (built in 1906, but now for sale). *Click on photo to enlarge.*	Tanana Lodge No. 3, Fairbanks, Alaska. *Click on photo to enlarge.*	The cornerstone commemorating the 100th anniversary of Tanana Lodge. *Click on photo to enlarge.*

George Washington Masonic Memorial Alexandria, Virginia. *Click on photo to enlarge.*	Statue of George Washington. *Click on photo to enlarge.*
Chart of Masonic symbols at the memorial. *Click on photo to enlarge.*	<
Bros. Wilson & Vavoularis in front of Athens Lodge. *Click on photo to enlarge.*	Masonic Square & Compasses (notice the Greek "Gamma" in the middle). *Click on photo to enlarge.*
Alter at Rutland Lodge. *Click on photo to enlarge.*	The dress code in June calls for Bib Overalls. *Click on photo to enlarge.*

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

June 9, 2009 - HONORS

2009-06-09T09:05:00.000-07:00

Last night (Monday), we held our last communications before going dark for the summer, a Fellow Craft degree. All went off smoothly and, as usual, everyone had a good time. Our Senior Warden sat in the East for the degree and did a fine job. However, I could tell it is time for the summer break as everyone is itching for it, as am I.

On another subject, over the weekend I was notified that I received a Masonic award from a research group in New Jersey, to wit:

I'm pleased to announce that our "Council of Infinite Wisdom", at its last meeting passed a resolution honoring our contributor Bro Tim Bryce.....

For those of you who do not know Bro Tim has carved a national nitch for himself and Masonry by posting his weekly summary of Masonic happenings.

How he does it is a mystery, but the results of his efforts in finding and reporting Masonic news, deserves recognition.

In the 20 odd year history of the Internet and the Internets' contribution to our society, Tims' work in finding & relaying Masonic happenings stands above and beyond the usual email messaging.

He is one of the few who has realized how to use this media to further the Masonic knowledge of his brothers, AND takes the time and effort to make it happen .

Masonic Brothers it very fortunate to have Tim as a member and received his communications.

For this we are grateful.

In 2003, I was elected a member of the Masonic Brotherhood of the Blue Forget-Me-Not (for my efforts in Masonic Education) and in 2005 I was elected a Knight Zuri (the word Zuri being Swahili for good and beautiful) from the Knights Of Freemasonry Universal (again for Masonic Education). In all of these awards, including New Jersey, they came as total surprise to me as you cannot solicit the organizations for the award. Instead, you have to be nominated by someone from within the group and unbeknown to the recipient, which, to me, makes these awards even more special as it means someone notices your work from afar.

As with the other two awards, I will honor the award and thank the Brothers for the courtesy. It's nice to know your efforts do not go unnoticed.

NOTE: This will be my last posting for a couple of weeks as I'm getting ready to take my summer sabbatical. Not to worry, though, "I'll be back."

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

June 4, 2009 - A COMPLIMENT FROM THE PHILIPPINES

2009-06-04T13:25:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, I received the following e-mail from an American Brother who is over visiting in the Philippines. I have omitted his name and Lodge to maintain his anonymity. I thought you might find this of interest:

- - - -
Greetings Brother!

I hope you still remember me. Let me refresh your memory. I am (Brother X) from (Lodge XX). Actually, I am the only Filipino in the lodge. You were present during my 1st, 2nd, and 3rd degrees.

Presently, I am here in the Philippines. I have visited and attended a few lodges here. Unfortunately, there is a conflict between Grand Lodges over here: the Grand Lodge of the Philippines (GLP) and the Independent Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands (IGLPI), and I attended the latter. I specifically do not know the said conflict between them. All I know is that they do not recognize each other.

When the IGLPI handed me some of its newsletters, I was amazed to see your name and your writings in it. They use your articles for inspiration and guidance. The IGLPI is still young and trying to make a stand. Well, I am just stating this based only on my observations.

I am writing to you because I told them that I have seen you and I know you personally. They were surprised to hear it. I even mentioned to them that I have your signature in my Bible. I am delighted to know that I am acquainted with the one whom they are getting their articles from.

I hope that you continue to give inspiration and enlightenment to our fellow Brothers. Keep up the good work!

May the blessings of the Grand Architect of the Universe dwell upon us!

With Brotherly love,
(Brother X)
- - - -

They may not like me over here, but I guess they love me overseas!

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

June 4, 2009 - PREPARING FOR DARKNESS

2009-06-04T12:49:00.001-07:00

Last night (Wednesday) we held an officers meeting at the Lodge. The center of conversation primarily addressed what was to be done when the Lodge goes dark for the summer months, which will be after next Monday's FC degree. Of course, we discussed financial matters, but basically we're in pretty good shape.

The Secretary has a few tasks to perform this Summer, such as distributing the first wave of letters to those members who haven't paid their 2009 dues yet. Our Finance Committee has to meet to look over our finances, but other than that, there isn't much left to do administratively.

During the quiet summer months there are a couple of small maintenance projects for us to tackle, such as stripping and waxing the floors, a touch of paint here and there, but nothing too serious.

The question though is, "Just because the Lodge goes dark, does all Masonic activity cease?" Actually, No, it doesn't, and any Lodge who goes completely to sleep during this period is being foolish. Now is the time to focus on your junior officers and prepare them for next year. This could involve ritual practice, but more importantly we need to start teaching the duties and responsibilities of the other offices and, as such, we will be implementing a Lodge Officer Training program during the summer. In addition to our own officers, we will be opening this up to neighboring Lodges as a good will gesture and to enjoy some Brotherhood.

Our Grand Lodge also has a Wardens Workshop planned for August in our area, but I think it is probably more important for the junior officers to learn to work as a team, which is the point of the Lodge Officer Training program.

Also during the summer, when I'm off on sabbatical, I want to develop a new in-house degree, a "Dunedin" degree, which would be delivered to all Master Masons shortly after their raising. As I see it, the degree should discuss four things: A brief history of the Lodge, the duties and responsibilities of the officers, some Masonic etiquette when in Lodge, and a description of other Masonic organizations (with a reminder that their allegiance should be with their Craft Lodge). I envision a degree patterned slightly after the FC degree with the exception that several people, not just one, participate in it. This is something I have been thinking about for a long time as I don't believe we do enough to properly educate our junior members. Catechisms are nice, but I think we have to do more.

I guess my message here is simple, while the Craft gets a break, the officers shouldn't squander their time. They should use it wisely to maintain and improve the Lodge, particularly their junior officers. After all, they are the future.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

May 29, 2009 - BIKES FOR BOOKS

2009-05-30T05:07:00.000-07:00

The Brothers of Dunedin Masonic Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M. were pleased to be on hand at Dunedin Elementary for the school's year-end CHAMPS Assembly program recognizing scholastic achievement by the students.

According to Ken Giesow, Lodge/School liaison, "Our lodge has supported the school for a number of years, but this year we wanted to try something different. Working with school officials, we devised a 'Bikes for Books' program which is intended to encourage the students to read. Basically, we are awarding a new bicycle to the top boy and girl readers in Grades 1 - 5. This is a program that was originally created by Masonic Lodges in the western United States, but we're the first Lodge to implement the program in Florida. All of the bikes were paid for by individual donations by members of our Lodge."

Mrs. Kathy Brickley is the Principal of Dunedin Elementary appreciated the efforts by the Masons, "This program was very helpful in encouraging our youth to read."

The winners included:

GRADE	BOY WINNERS	GIRL WINNERS	PRESENTERS
1 - FIRST	Javan Clarke (Thobe)	Abigal Hernandez (Mrs. Morrison)	Bro. Ryan Schlenker Bro. Steve Andrews
2 - SECOND	Leon (Ms. Crawford)	Kshitija (Mrs. Ausdemore)	Bro. Ray Ingalls W:.Mike Palenik, PM
3 - THIRD	Nick Myers (Peterson)	Alyssa Herrera (Peterson)	W:.Shannon McIntosh, PM W:.Rome Scerbo, PM
4 - FOURTH	Reagan Amnay (Ms. Brooker)	Natalie Schwark (Ms. Brooker)	R:.W:.Chris Schlenker, PM R:.W:.Bill McIntosh, PM, PDDGM
5 - FIFTH	Cesare Amexaga (Harper)	Lakaya Burny (Mr. Gamer)	W:.Bob Matheson, PM Bro. Dave Seidel

The Lodge also provided $20 gift certificates for the winners to purchase bicycle safety helmets from Walmart, which worked with the Lodge in purchasing the bikes. The certificates were presented by Deputy Spencer Gross of the Pinellas County Sheriff's Department who gave a brief lecture on bicycle safety to the audience.

Dunedin Lodge is pleased with the results of the program and wants to perpetuate it in the years ahead. According to the Master of Dunedin Lodge, Tim Bryce, "Masons have long been supporters of public school systems, Dunedin Lodge is no exception. We are proud of our relationship with Dunedin Elementary and pleased to support them not only with the 'Bikes for Books' but with other programs as well. Youth represents the future for all of us. It is just plain common sense that we support them any way we can. Also, I would like to mention I am incredibly proud of our Brothers who donated the bikes and who were here to present them today."

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

May 25, 2009 - GRAND COMMUNICATIONS

2009-05-26T06:31:00.000-07:00

I've just returned from our Grand Communications. I have been to a number of these meetings over the years and I cannot say I am ever impressed with what I find. This one was no exception. Everything was superbly choreographed by the ruling party and everything went off as planned. Heck, they even made the Craft think they were a part of the process. As long as the Party has a strangle-hold on the Grand Lodge, I do not anticipate attending any more of these coronations.

The sad thing is the fraternity continues to crumble before our eyes and nobody is interested in addressing the key issues of the day. Let me give you an example. I have been plotting membership trends since 2003 when I was Worshipful Master the first time. Since then, Florida has been averaging a decline in membership of approximately 1,200 Masons. In the Report of the Grand Master and Grand Secretary, it was reported that our membership dropped from 49,942 to 48,658 (a loss of 1,284). In other words, we're right on schedule. Remarkably, in the same document (and at the microphone), the Grand Master reported, "Our Fraternity is starting to grow; many Lodges are putting Candidates through the Degrees as fast as they can set them up."

In order to make such a statement, I presume he has a different set of membership numbers than what was reported to the Craft.

The thing that bothers me the most about these meetings is the lack of regard for the Craft's time and money for attending them. It is a model of inefficiency. It takes three days to accomplish what could be done in one. Want to see people put to sleep quickly? Attend a Grand Communications or the "Grand Waste of Time" as I have heard it referred to.

"Serenity Now!" "Serenity Now!"

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

May 18, 2009 - A NOTE TO JUNIOR MEMBERS

2009-05-19T07:41:00.001-07:00

I started last night's Stated Communications, with the following call to arms of our junior members. I don't know if it made an impression, but I hope so:

Last Monday, we dropped the "Hot" Gavel off at Star Lodge No. 78 in Largo and I want to thank those of you who participated.

While there, we sat in on an EA Degree where a junior officer sat in the East and, although he made a couple of mistakes, he did a fine job.

While I was sitting there, I realized how nice it was to sit on the sidelines and let someone else do the degree. And this reminded me that it is time for our younger members to step up to the plate and take a swing of the bat.

We are lucky in this Lodge that we have Brothers who know how to put on a degree, such as W:.Ken, W:.Bob, W:.Chris, and myself. And that we have Brothers like W:.Rome, R:.W:.Bill and our Lodge instructor who are always ready to offer advice and training.

BUT THE POINT IS, IT IS TIME FOR THE JUNIOR MEMBERS TO STEP UP TO THE PLATE.

We have plenty of knowledge and experience in our senior members; a lot of wisdom.

BUT IT IS TIME FOR OUR YOUNGER MEMBERS TO STEP UP AND SAY "YES, I WANT TO TAKE A SHOT AT IT. I WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE."

I think it's nice that we can still put on a good degree, but it cannot continue to be the same faces. We fell into this RUT back in the late 1990's and early part of this decade, where we were recycling Past Masters. It's nice that such men came forward and helped out, but the Lodge stagnated thereby causing considerable problems; WE SURELY CANNOT AFFORD TO LET THIS HAPPEN AGAIN.

I have always preached that a good manager should operate in such as way as he does himself out of a job; that the department can carry on productively without him. This is what my hope and aim is here at Dunedin. This is not about "me," it's about the Lodge.

Years ago, Bro. Jack Benny was asked what his secret for success was as both his radio and TV shows always finished in the top ten year after year. He said simply, "It's not about me, it's about the show." He didn't want people to say the next day, "Did you see Jack Benny last night?" Instead, it was more important for people to say, "Did you catch the Benny show last night?" He realized it was a team effort, as do I in the Lodge; "It's not about me (Tim Bryce); It's about the Lodge (Dunedin)."

I THEREFORE CALL UPON OUR JUNIOR MEMBERS TO COME FORWARD, LEARN THE WORK, AND TAKE AN ACTIVE ROLE IN THIS LODGE'S FUTURE.

Our senior members will be more than happy to help you, but it must first begin with you saying, "Yes, I care; Yes, I want to take an active part in this Lodge's future."

The future is in your hands; You can make Dunedin Lodge whatever you want it to be. My year is half over, and now we must build for the future and my successors. We need 'A Few Good Men.'

If you want to make a difference, please contact our senior officers or myself whenever you're ready to make the commitment.

Thank you.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

May 11, 2009 - "HOT" GAVEL

2009-05-12T08:58:00.001-07:00

Earlier this year, Dunedin Lodge retrieved the "Traveling" Gavel from Star Lodge No. 78 F.& A.M. in neighboring Largo (on January 3rd, the evening of their installation of officers). It therefore seemed fitting that Dunedin Lodge present the "Hot" Gavel to them at their EA Degree this evening. The gavels, which are sponsored by the SunCoast Masters & Wardens Association are used to promote inter-Lodge visitations. For the "Traveling" gavel (a fine looking large gavel), a Lodge must fetch it from another; for the "Hot" Gavel (an ugly chunk of wood), a Lodge must dispose of it at another Lodge. All of this is done in good humor and promoting camaraderie between Lodges. For a complete list of the rules associated with the gavels, click HERE.

Dunedin Lodge received the "Hot" Gavel from Sutherland Lodge No. 174 F.& A.M. in Palm Harbor on the occasion of our outdoor MM degree on April 29th.

Ten Brothers from Dunedin, including five sitting officers, were on hand to present the "Hot" Gavel to Star's Master who reluctantly, yet graciously, accepted it.

The gavel concept has been quite popular in the United States for quite some time and does indeed encourage inter-Lodge cooperation and awareness. If anything, it forces Lodges to get off their duffs and see what the rest of the Masonic world is doing. I have been visiting Star Lodge for over ten years now and know a lot of the members. Yet, the younger Brothers of our Lodge have not visited them, which is why it is important they be exposed to the Brethren and activities of other Lodges. I guess I kind of see it as a school "field trip."

I have been asked about the gavel program by other members of the fraternity in overseas jurisdictions who find the concept interesting. Hopefully this will shed a little more light on the subject.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

May 6, 2009 - INVESTIGATIONS

2009-05-07T07:32:00.000-07:00

As is customary for me, I spent Wednesday night at the Lodge doing paperwork. However, this time it was a little different as we were visited by three men interested in joining our Lodge, one to pickup a petition, and two others for an investigation.

The first one was a young man (23) you was recently married and works for a large financial planning company with offices in our area. His grandfather had been a Mason, but not his father. He had also been in a Greek fraternity in college and understood the concept of brotherhood (although I told him Masonry was somewhat different than the college fraternities).

The other two gentlemen came to the Lodge as part of our investigation process. Both had relatives with Masonic ties, but we also talked at length about a fraternity was (and wasn't). We stressed that the Blue Lodge (aka Craft Lodge) was the keystone in the fraternity and that although there were other Masonic bodies (Shrine, York Rite, Scottish Rite, Grotto, etc.), it is the Blue Lodge that is the bedrock.

For all three men, they were very much interested in learning about the history of the fraternity, our community involvement, but more importantly, they were looking for a refuge from the helter-skelter of the real world. The Masonic tenants of "Friendship, Morality, and Brotherly Love" was very important to them, which I found very refreshing. People join the Masons for a variety of reasons: to move on to the Shrine, to establish business contacts, for political maneuvering, etc.; these are all the wrong reasons. This is why I found their rationale for joining very refreshing and I'm sure they will fit in nicely with the Brethren in our Lodge. I also find this is becoming typical of the young men joining the fraternity.

Some Lodges do a superficial job investigating candidates for the fraternity, but I consider the Masonic investigation process very important. Normally it should be conducted at the candidate's home so that you can examine his home life and how supportive his family will be. I also encourage investigators to check references as much as possible. If you do not do an adequate job of investigating the candidate early on, you will only be faced with problems later on.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

May 4, 2009 - FC LECTURE

2009-05-05T07:13:00.000-07:00

At last night's Called Communication, we passed two more Brothers to the degree of Fellow Craft. The degree went off fine, but the real point of interest was a Brother delivering the FC lecture for the first time. In Florida, the lecture is rather lengthy and there are becoming fewer and fewer Brothers devoting the time to memorize the work. Frankly, I foresee the day in the not too distant future when the lecture will have to be delivered through some other venue, perhaps a DVD as Ohio has developed.

Nonetheless, the Brother who delivered the FC lecture was understandably nervous prior to the meeting. Anytime you have to memorize something of this magnitude and give it back in Lodge, you are understandably nervous. Prior to the meeting, we all tried to comfort him and instill confidence in him, but you could tell he was zoned-out thinking about the lecture.

Actually, he did an excellent job with the lecture, particularly as this was his first time. As WM, I stopped the meeting, came down on the level, and gave him a handshake and a warm "Well done." When I shook his hand, it was wet from perspiration, but I could tell in his eyes he was glad the ordeal was over.

Masonic lectures provide some important lessons in terms of Masonic Education, but I am worried it is becoming too laborious a task to do. Further, for those Brothers who have heard the lectures several times before, it gets rather boring, thereby you see Brothers falling asleep on the sidelines (which does not leave a good impression on our new Brothers). I also wonder how much the new Brothers are able to absorb, particularly following a Masonic degree. I tend to believe Masonic lectures should be handled separately so the Brothers can fully understand what is being said, but unfortunately, this is not how it is done in Florida.

To find out more about last night's degree, please see the "News" section of our web page.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

April 29, 2009 - OUTDOOR DEGREE

2009-04-30T07:47:00.000-07:00

We held an outdoor Master Mason degree with dispensation from the Grand Master. This is the third year in a row we've conducted an outdoor degree, and every year it gets bigger and better. This year, we did a joint degree with Sutherland Lodge No. 174, our neighbor to the north of us and my old Lodge where I served as WM in 2003.

A crowd of over 60 Master Masons were on hand representing ten Tampa Bay Lodges, including representatives from Districts 20, 21, and 22. There were also visiting Brothers from lodges in Maryland, Massachusetts, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Ontario.

I have been receiving congratulatory remarks from the Brethren who attended the degree; for example, "What an outstanding night of fellowship; great degree work and a beauty of a night."

To read more about the event and see pictures from it, click HERE.

Although I have been involved with many such degrees in the past, and I heartily recommend them as a way of stimulating the Craft, it requires considerable organization, planning, and follow-up. As for me, I developed a checklist which helped me assign responsibilities and communicate it to the Craft (I would e-mail it out to the Brethren). I have checklists for all
three degrees, but an outdoor degree requires a little extra planning. Anyway, here is the checklist I used last night; I hope you find it useful:

MM CHECKLIST (Effective: 04/22/3009)
==============================================================
MM DEGREE: Wednesday, April 29, 2009, 7:00PM

CANDIDATE(S):

LOCATION: (address)

REHEARSAL: 7:00pm - Monday, April 13th @ Lodge

ASSIGNMENTS:

1ST SECTION

WM -
SW -
JW -
Trs -
Sec -
CH -
Mar -
SD -
JD -
SS -
JS -
Tyl -
Con -

2ND SECTION

KS -
GSW -
GJW -
Trs -
Sec -
Cha -
Mar -
SD -
JD -
SS -
JS -
TY -

RUF1 -
RUF2 -
RUF3 -

FC10 -
FC11 -
FC12 -

9 FC -

SC/WFM-

Lecture -
Charge -
Bible Pres -

Dress: 1st section -
2nd section -

Props: Trowell, Senior Deacon's tool;
Slips of paper with names of Brothers;
Slips of paper with MM song; Bibles

Bible Passage: Ecclesiastes Chapter 12

Refreshment: Before the degree and brief one at Half Time

MATERIALS

ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS

Dispensation
Request for Courtesy Work
Sign-In Sheets
Master Bible & Square/Compasses
Bibles
Dues Cards
MM Booklets
Names of Candidates
Minutes (template)
Funeral Dirge - paper
American Flag (and anchor)

COOKING & PARKING ITEMS

Safety Vests
Barbecue
Folding table from Lodge
Cooking Implements
Hot Dogs, Hamburgers, Condiments
Refreshments + Ice
Donation Basket
Garbage Bags & Cans

DEGREE ITEMS

Lighter for 3 great lights
Costumes
JW's Jewell
Square & 24" gauge
White Gloves
Low Twelve Gong
Secretary's Scroll
Altar + Cover
Knee Rests
Lesser Lights/Tiki Torches
Mite Box
WM-SW-JW Podiums & Gavels
SD-JD-SS-JS Rods & Holders
Wooden Rod Tappers (floor)
Senior Deacon tool
Aprons & Jewels
Visitor aprons
Working Tools
Lawn Chairs

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS

Music - Prelude & Half Time & End
Photographers
Lodge Room Setup
Parking -
Cooking -

I hope this helps you. As an aside, I have also learned to review and update the checklist following a degree in oreder to improve it.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

April 27, 2009 - MONTANA 3-7-77

2009-04-27T07:56:00.000-07:00

I was the guest speaker for our April "Festive Board" where I told the story of "Montana 3-7-77" which describes the role Freemasonry played in bringing law and order to Montana in the 1860's. This was based on a paper I wrote in 2003. For the Festive Board I created an MS Powerpoint presentation to help me tell the story which was well received.

It's actually an interesting story; one which Hollywood should be interesting. If you're interested in reading it, you can find it on the Internet by clicking HERE. I hope you enjoy it.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

April 22, 2009 - COAT OF ARMS

2009-04-23T05:45:00.000-07:00

I picked up the Lodge's Coat of Arms last night from the framer. This is a project we have been working on for quite some time.

I originally suggested the Coat of Arms in 2007 when I was Secretary under W:.Chris Schlenker, PM, Master. Consequently, a motion and committee was formed on February 26, 2007 to study the problem and make a recommendation. The committee consisted of W:.BJ Sammon, PM (2008; Senior Warden at the time), W:.Ken Giesow, PM (2006; and Marshall at the time), and myself. As part of its requirements, the committee wanted Masonic symbolism included in the Coat of Arms, along with something from our past. Consideration was given to adding a distinctly "Dunedin" flavor to the Coat of Arms, but this was eventually considered trivial and irrelevant. The expression "For the Good of the Order" came from studying the early minutes of the Lodge, whereby it was frequently stated that this or that was done "For the Good of the Order".

After determining their requirements, the committee contacted W:.Joseph Duhammel, PM (2005) of Clearwater Lodge No. 127 who was a well known graphic designer. W:.Joe produced a few designs for the committee to consider; one was selected and fine-tuned until the committee was satisfied. The Coat of Arms was then presented to the Craft in the Stated Communications of September 10, 2007 where it was adopted as the official graphic.

The Coat of Arms as shown herein was officially framed and presented by yours truly to the Lodge where it will proudly be displayed in the Lodge room.

A unique Coat of Arms may seem somewhat trivial, but I think it is important for a Lodge to develop its identity thereby creating pride and dedication in the institution we belong to. The concept is obviously not new and is commonly found in European Lodges, but very few in the United States (I don't know of any in Florida). Regardless, the graphic makes a nice addition to the Lodge and I hope you enjoy it.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

April 20, 2009 - MASONIC EDUCATION

2009-04-21T12:02:00.000-07:00

At our April Stated Communications, I invited a guest speaker for the Masonic Education portion of the meeting. Fortunately, I was able to get Bro. John Nagy, an old friend and Brother from the Tampa Bay area. Our paths haven't crossed in a while, but John recently wrote a new Masonic book entitled, "BUILDING HIRAM" (ISBN: 978-0-9793070-3-4) which is based on his research of Masonic symbolism. John has always had an inquisitive mind which has led him to ask a lot of questions about the meaning of Freemasonry. From this, he wrote his book as a series of catechisms explaining the meaning of our degrees and symbols.

In our monthly meeting, he read one of the catechisms which explained the 3-5-7 stairway in the Fellowcraft degree. It was very interesting and the Craft seemed to enjoy it.

Bro. Nagy is a good man and Mason who likes to ask the questions few people want to. I just hope his work is not misconstrued by the powers that be in the fraternity and he is not prohibited from continuing his research. Such work is very important, particularly now as young men join the fraternity and are looking for answers to the many questions they have regarding Freemasonry.

As I have said on numerous occasions, Masonic Education is extremely important to the vitality of the Lodge and the earmark of a successful one.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

April 15, 2009 - GL LEGISLATION

2009-04-17T08:51:00.000-07:00

I went to Lodge Wednesday night, as I usually do, to process paperwork. While there, I reviewed the proposed legislation to voted upon at our upcoming Grand Communications in May. A booklet with the legislation is first sent to each Lodge for the officers to review. This is followed by a formal review on a Zone level (multiple districts attending), before it is brought before the Craft for review in Lodge, and finally to be voted upon at our Grand Communications.

In our jurisdiction, any Florida Mason can submit legislation for consideration, including the Grand Lodge officers. As I flipped through the legislation I came to the realization that there was nothing Earth-shattering contained in this year's edition, which is unfortunate as our grand jurisdiction continues to shrink at a rate of 1,200 members per year, and our financial resources are slowly being depleted. I would have thought there would be something, anything, in the legislation to address all this but, alas, there was nothing. As far as I am concerned, the legislation being presented is nothing more than what I call, "Re-arranging the deck chairs on the Titanic." Instead of fixing the hole in the ship or getting everyone into life boats, we're busy trying to make things look better than they really are. This concept alone troubles me greatly and puts the future of the fraternity at risk. I simply do not understand why people want to ignore the obvious and turn their attention to trivialities instead. Someone explain this to me please.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

April 13, 2009 - MM REHEARSAL

2009-04-14T07:07:00.000-07:00

We held a MM rehearsal at Lodge as a prelude to our upcoming outdoor degree scheduled for Wednesday, April 29th. As I have mentioned in the past, this will be a joint degree with Sutherland Lodge No. 174, our neighbor to the north. We practiced both sections of the degree which was needed as we have five Brothers planned to be raised to MM.

As I mentioned to the group, an outdoor degree with five candidates means a couple of things:

First, it requires a lot of organization and participation from the Craft, especially when you consider we will probably have 75-100 Masons at this event.

Second, we have to pull this off smoothly and efficiently if we plan to get out of there at a reasonable hour (it needs to go off like clockwork).

To this end, I sent out an e-mail blast to both Lodges requesting their support. Since this idea came up, I have been working closely with the WM of Sutherland Lodge 174. Although we have tried to think of everything, it is now up to the Craft to step up to the plate and make the necessary commitments.

Below is the checklist we devised to put on the degree. I have omitted the names of people to protect their anonymity. I find such checklists are essential for degree work. Hopefully you will too:

MM CHECKLIST (Effective: 04/14/3009)
==============================================================
MM DEGREE: Wednesday, April 29, 2009, 7:00PM - Dunedin Lodge No. 192 & Sutherland 174

CANDIDATE: Dunedin:
Sutherland:

LOCATION: (address)

REHEARSAL: 7:00pm - Monday, April 13th @ Dunedin Lodge

ASSIGNMENTS:

1ST SECTION

WM -
SW -
JW -
Trs -
Sec -
CH -
Mar -
SD -
JD -
SS -
JS -
Tyl -
Con -
Con -
Con -

2ND SECTION

KS -
GSW -
GJW -
Trs -
Sec -
Cha -
Mar -
SD -
JD -
SS -
JS -
TY -

RUF1(JA) -
REF2(JO) -
RUF3(JU) -

FC10 -
FC11 -
FC12 -

9 FC - Dunedin:
Sutherland:

SC/WFM-

Canvas -

Lecture -
Charge -
Bible Pres -

Dress: 1st section -
2nd section -

Bible Passage: Ecclesiastes Chapter 12

Refreshment: Half Time

MATERAILS LODGE BROTHER

ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS

Dispensation
Request for Courtesy Work
Sign-In Sheets
Master Bible & Square/Compasses
Bibles
Dues Cards
MM Booklets
Names of Candidates
Minutes (template)
Funeral Dirge - paper
American Flag (and anchor)

COOKING & PARKING ITEMS

Safety Vests
Barbecue Grill
Folding table from Lodge
Cooking Implements
Hot Dogs, Hamburgers, Condiments
Refreshments + Ice
Donation Basket
Garbage Bags

DEGREE ITEMS

Lighter for 3 great lights
Candidate Costumes
Costumes for 2nd half
JW's Jewell
Square & 24" gauge (for JA/JO)
White Gloves for FC
Low Twelve Gong
Secretary's Scroll
Altar + Cover
Knee Rests
Lesser Lights/Tiki Torches
Mite Box
WM-SW-JW Podiums & Gavels
SD-JD-SS-JS Rods & Holders
Wooden Rod Tappers (floor)
Senior Deacon tool
Aprons & Jewels
Visitor aprons
Acacia, Bag, Setting Maul
Working Tools (including trowel)
Lawn Chairs for Candidates

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS

Music - Prelude & Half Time & End
Bag Pipes
Photographers
Lodge Room Setup
Chaulk String
Parking -

NOTE: >>>EVERYBODY BRING THEIR OWN LAWN CHAIR !!!!

It may look like a lot of work, but it really isn't if everyone pulls together and executes their responsibilities properly.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

April 11, 2009 - TRAPSHOOT

2009-04-12T08:02:00.000-07:00

We held our 9th Annual SunCoast Masters & Wardens Association Trapshoot on Saturday. Even though it was Easter weekend, we had the best turnout to date; 44 Brothers and friends representing six lodges in our area. My lodge, Dunedin, was very well represented with nine shooters, but, alas, we took fourth place in the tournament.

Nonetheless, it was great comaraderie, a great way to promote the fraternity and attract new members, and a great way to generate money for the Association's college scholarship. In the end, we took in $1,067 for the fund.

I've been running this for nine years now and have enjoyed every minute. Frankly, it's not too difficult to put on. Sure I have to schedule and announce it, but the Trap Range basically runs it and collects the money for it. Interestingly, as the event has grown, it has created some friendly competition between the Lodges, and the winner of the Lodge Trophy gets bragging rights for a year. Star Lodge No. 78 in Largo had dominated the event for many years, but this year the Lodge trophy went to Gulf Beach Lodge No. 291 in Madeira Beach. The Worshipful Master was on hand to receive the trophy and was very pleased to do so.

Again, the secret here is to have fun and keep it simple. This event appeals to all ages of Brothers, from the 20's to the 70's.

And, No, I do not miss the spaghetti dinners or pancake breakfasts.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

April 8, 2009 - OFFICER MEETINGS

2009-04-10T08:17:00.000-07:00

We held our monthly officer's meeting Wednesday night. Back in the 90's, the officers met on a weekly basis (Wednesday nights) which I think is commendable, but also unrealistic for men to attend regularly as they have other commitments. This, plus the regular weekly meetings, inevitably started to burnout people and our younger officers slowly dropped out of the line one by one. As a result, we experienced holes in the line which became increasingly difficult to fill with each passing year, and the management of the Lodge noticeably suffered.

Because of this, we experienced a backlash whereby the officers rarely met at all (maybe four times in two years). This complicated communications and organization, and the Lodge stumbled forward.

To overcome this problem, we changed our Stated Communications from twice a month to once a month. We also changed our starting time from 7:30pm to 7:00pm. We then re-introduced regularly scheduled officer meetings, but just one per month and just prior to our Stated Communications. This allows us to properly review what is going on and plan the coming Stated Communications and next few months.

Personally I don't have a problem with meeting at the Lodge every week on Wednesday night. In fact, I'm there regularly to check on paperwork and other miscellaneous items. It happens to be convenient for me to do so, but I recognize it is not convenient for everyone. If we were to force the officers to meet weekly again, I'm sure we would again find ourselves in a mutinous situation and the Lodge would suffer.

Officer meetings are extremely important, and I encourage people to schedule them regularly, but the Master has to recognize when it becomes a burden as opposed to a benefit. Remember, we live in a fast paced society today where our time is at a premium. If people feel their time is being wasted, they will inevitably drop out, and we can hardly afford this anymore.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

April 7, 2009 - HOSPITAL VISIT

2009-04-07T07:09:00.000-07:00

Last night the Lodge was dark (closed) so I used this opportunity to visit a Brother who had been checked into the hospital over the weekend with pneumonia. The Brother in question was our Junior Past Master who has been suffering with a variety of medical problems over the last three years (including his year in the East).

I had been told by his wife that he had developed a terrible cough and that they checked him into the hospital on Friday night. Good thing too, as the doctor caught it just in time. When I arrived after work on Monday night he looked and sounded great. With any luck, the doctor will be sending him home soon.

If you have been following this blog, you know this is not the first time I have visited a Brother in the hospital. Such visits are important to the Brethren who like to know the Lodge is concerned with their welfare. As the figurehead of the Lodge, it is the Worshipful Master's responsibility to check on the Craft. In a way, I kind of feel like a doctor or minister who has to make the rounds at the hospitals. Actually, I do not mind as the Brothers are always glad to see a friendly face and talk. For those of you considering becoming Worshipful Master, this is an inherent and important part of the job description that nobody tells you about.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

April 4, 2009 - DUNEDIN HIGHLAND GAMES (SCOTTISH)

2009-04-06T08:56:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, April 4th, the Lodge volunteered to help with the Dunedin Highland Games which is an annual event in our community. Dunedin is a Scottish community in the Tampa Bay area and is also the sister city of Stirling, Scotland. Consequently, in April of each year Dunedin holds its Scottish games, complete with music competition, Scottish athletics, food and drink. It's one of the biggest community events in the area.

To assist in the games, our Lodge volunteers to help park cars in the main parking lot. It's actually a lot of work as we direct the parking of several thousand cars. Obviously, this requires a lot of participation from the Craft and we have to work from early in the morning and into the night (Frankly, my dogs were really barking by the end of the day).

It seemed to me that attendance at the Games was up this year, way up. (I thought somebody said we were suffering from a recession - it sure didn't seem that way at the Games). I haven't had to work such a crowd in a long time and I must confess I don't have patience for the general public when they start behaving like lemmings and cattle. Nonetheless, I put my best face forward and tried to be as courteous and cooperative as possible.

The benefit of events of this magnitude is basically good public relations. The Dunedin organizers greatly appreciate our efforts (who end up speaking well of us). While working, the Craft wore safety vests with Masonic baseball caps and shirts (the Square and Compasses were very prominent). This, of course, helped to produce a favorable image of the fraternity, particularly if we went out of our way to help someone (which we did constantly throughout the event).

At the end of the day, I was happy it was over, kicked off my shoes and rested my sore feet with a good cigar and a good malt Scotch.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

March 30, 2009 - MM DEGREE

2009-03-30T13:18:00.000-07:00

We held a Master Mason degree last night for two Brothers. There were a lot of Masons on hand for the degree, the officers did a fine job, and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. All in all, a very good night. I assigned a Past Master to sit in the East for this particular degree as his son was one of the candidates to be raised. There is something special about seeing a father raise a son in these degrees. We also presented Bibles to our newly raised Brothers, signed by the Craft, which they greatly appreciated.

This degree was also used as a prelude to an outdoor degree we are planning for next month (April 29th) which will be held jointly between my Lodge, Dunedin, and my old Lodge, Sutherland Lodge No. 174 in neighboring Palm Harbor. The Worshipful Master and I are old friends (I took an ACTIVE role in his MM degree years ago). He is also a good businessman with a lot of street smarts. Consequently, the two Lodges are starting to work together in degree work, including tonight's MM degree where the Sutherland Master served as Senior Warden for the degree.

If all goes according to plan, we will raise five Brothers in the outdoor degree (four short, one long). We are anticipating a fair turnout for it as well, about 75-100 people. Needless to say, we have devised a checklist denoting responsibilities of each Lodge and person. Because of the logistics of this degree, it will be important for several people to participate in its execution, not just the same few people who usually carry the load. We will also be holding some rehearsals prior to this in order to give the best degree we can. Should be interesting.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

March 25, 2009 - INTRO TO THE INTERNET

2009-03-26T05:35:00.000-07:00

As we continue our on-going training on the use of the PC, as you may remember we covered Word Processing last month. This month I presented an introduction to the Internet. Here was my outline:

Historical Background
Protocols - http: mail: ftp: golpher:
- How addresses are made
- Use of .COM, .ORG, .NET, .GOV, .TV, etc.
Hardware setup
- Telephone lines
- Cable & Ethernet
- Satellite
- Modems & Routers
How it works
- ISP & Networks
E-Mail
- Address Books
- Where to get an e-mail account (Yahoo!, G-Mail, etc.)
- How to address e-mails TO someone, CC, and BCC
- Attaching files to an e-mail
- Composing text using Word Processing techniques
- Inclusion of graphics and web links
Web Broswers
- types - Netscape, MS IE, Firefox, Chrome, Safari
- search engines
FTP

I primarily focused on e-mail as everyone is somewhat familiar with it, yet do not fully capitalize on its capabilities. Plus, with their Word Processing instruction in place (from last meeting), they were now able to couple the two together.

Next month, we'll kick it up a notch and talk more about Web browsers, including discussion groups (social groups), search engines, shopping (including PayPal), YouTube, and special tools available on the Net.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

March 23, 2009 - MARCH FESTIVE BOARD

2009-03-24T09:08:00.000-07:00

On Monday we held our third "Festive Board" off-site at a restaurant. I've talked about the purpose of these meetings in the past and they appear to be picking up momentum. The Secretary from our Lodge was the after-dinner speaker who spoke on "Famous Masons." Interestingly, he used a game-show format to encourage audience participation which appeared to work quite well. In a nutshell, he did a great job with the presentation and we'll be holding more "Festive Boards" in the months ahead.

As has become customary, I took photos of the event and posted it on our Lodge's web site. Following this, I broadcast the news clipping to the Craft which appears to be welcomed by the Craft, particularly those Brothers who live far away and cannot attend Lodge regularly. To illustrate, one Brother e-mailed me this message:

You have no idea how much I value your emails, it makes me feel I'm in my Dunedin Lodge, even though I am 300 miles away from it.

This tells me a regular diet of Masonic News to the Craft from the Lodge is welcomed and is conducive for supporting the Lodge. In other words, it tells the Craft we are active and stimulates their interest to attend or send a donation.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

March 21, 2009 - ADOPT A STREET

2009-03-22T05:40:00.000-07:00

Shortly after becoming Worshipful Master, it was brought to my attention that the Lodge had adapted a street but had not tended to it in quite some time. The "Adopt-a-Street" program is commonly found in the States whereby an organization agrees to periodically pickup debris along the road. In exchange, your organization is well recognized as the sponsor of the street. Basically, it's a win-win situation for everyone involved; the city gets a clean street, and your organization gets public recognition.

In our case, someone had signed up the Lodge a few years ago to adopt the same street where the Lodge is located. Unfortunately, the Lodge had forgotten about it over time and had neglected the street. In looking over the rules of the program, I discovered the organization must periodically clean the street or lose their recognition. Consequently, I scheduled a cleanup which we did on Saturday.

To motivate the Craft, I volunteered to feed them breakfast at the Lodge early in the morning (8:00am). I was fortunate to get eight Brothers to come forward to help out. After breakfast, I distributed safety vests and garbage bags. Most of the Brethren also wore a hat or shirt with the square and compasses for P.R. purposes. We had one Brother volunteer as the taxi driver and deposited Brothers on the opposite ends of the road. The whole project took about an hour.

From my perspective, it was a great event. In addition to some Brotherly camaraderie, the public saw the Masons in action, and the street was cleaned. I am hoping to continue this program either every other month or on a quarterly basis.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

March 19, 2009 - CORN BEEF & CABBAGE

2009-03-20T08:36:00.000-07:00

Last night we held a Corn Beef & Cabbage dinner at the Lodge which was well attended (70+ people which is a good size crowd for our Rec Hall). Our Treasurer headed up this effort and did an outstanding job of organizing the effort and selling tickets. The food was excellent, the camaraderie warm, and we even had a two-piece combo for entertainment.

In hindsight, we should have had more people help in the preparation, the serving, and the cleanup (at least five people each). There should have also been an official greeter (which I did as Master) and a Master of Ceremonies. Nonetheless, we did well and actually made a few bucks for the Lodge. As for me, I ended up washing every knife, fork, spoon, plate, cooking utensil, pot, and pan used that night. Although I had help drying everything, it would have been nice to have more people help out (such as an EA/FC or two). In a way, it reminded me of my college days when I used to work in sorority kitchens.

However, it was asked a couple of times, "Where are our younger members? How come they are not participating?" Actually, it's a no-brainer. Yes, it was a good function, but unfortunately, such dinners have become associated with the older generation and the younger men beg off from participating. Because of the mix of younger and older members, it is difficult to find the right event that will appeal to everyone. It should therefore come as no surprise that you cannot satisfy everyone. It also means you have to find different venues and programs for the different people in your Lodge. As our dinner demonstrated, what may be of interest to your older members will not necessarily be of interest to your younger members, and vice versa.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

March 18, 2009 - MASTERS & WARDENS

2009-03-19T06:23:00.000-07:00

We held our Masters & Wardens Association meeting last night in downtown St. Petersburg, which is a bit of a drive for me as I live in the northern part of the county (about a 45-60 minute drive depending on traffic). Nonetheless, I happily made the trek as I am a big proponent of the Association which represents all of the Masonic Craft Lodges in our area.

I got involved in the Association early in my Masonic career, shortly after I was raised. The DDGM at the time was a Past Master of my Lodge and he encouraged me to come to a meeting with him where I was quickly recruited to design the Association's web page. I attended Association meetings regularly even as I moved through the chairs of my Lodge. I found this to be a great way of meeting new Brothers and contemporaries in other Lodges.

In 2005 I was elected President of the Association and I like to believe I had a good year. We made money for various charities, and had a lot of fun in the process. This year I am serving as the Chairman of the Scholarship Committee, but I am better known as the sponsor of the annual Trap Shoot Competition which I started years ago. This is our ninth year of holding the Trap Shoot and we have generated quite a bit of money for the scholarship fund as a result. Frankly, it's a no-brainer; the gun club sets it all up, collects the money, runs it, and gives us the money at the end. This sure beats sweating over a pancake breakfast or spaghetti dinner where you make just a couple of bucks. Here, we make money while having fun in the process.

I tend to believe the more dedicated Masons belong to such Associations as they are trying to better themselves and their Lodges. Others refuse to participate. I'm not sure why. I can only speculate they have a rather myopic view of Freemasonry whereby they cannot imagine it beyond the four walls of their own Lodge. Sad, very sad. I tend to see Freemasonry as a universal concept, something that transcends Lodge and Jurisdictional boundaries. I always learn a new trick or two by visiting another Lodge, and I hope visitors do likewise at ours. When I was in college, I learned that "We enjoy life through the help and society of others." And that's what groups like the Masters & Wardens Association are all about.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

March 16, 2009 - AWARDS

2009-03-17T07:12:00.000-07:00

Wow, busy night, last night, at our monthly Stated Communications which we designated "Awards Night." Among the business of the Lodge was:

* Two Brothers successfully passed their FC catechism examination (and will be raised next month in an outdoor degree).

* I recognized our Lodge instructors for the fine job they have done with our new members.

* The Secretary and I both gave brief presentations on Masonic Education.

* Three Brothers were awarded Honorary Memberships by ballot of the Craft. All three are fine men who have served the Lodge over the years; so much so, they are already treated as members.

* A 40 year Masonic Service Award was presented.

* Two 50 year Masonic Services Awards were presented (with Grand Honors). Assisting me was the Grand Marshall of Vermont who was a personal friend of one of the Brothers.

* The Secretary presented the Marshall with a new, hand carved, Marshall's baton.

* Plus all of the other peripheral business that normally goes along with a Stated Communications.

Although we had a lot of business to tend to, we got through it all rather fast as I kept the pace moving along.

I tend to believe presenting the awards is more rewarding than receiving them. On the surface, they may seem like some small tokens of appreciation, but they also represent tokens of endearment between Brothers, and I think this is why Masons appreciate such awards. It means their actions have not gone unnoticed by the Craft.

In particular, the Grand Marshall of Vermont greatly appreciated the honor of pinning the 50 year pin on his friend and Brother (they have known each other for years). To me, it's important to provide a role for family and friends in presenting such awards, it makes the moment extra special for the Brother. The presentation of any award should not be conducted coldly or seemingly repetitive, but, instead, should be presented warmly with a personal touch in order to stress its significance. I have learned it is the little things that true Masons remember, such as a warm greeting, a hearty congratulations, sincere eye contact, a personal call or note to check on a Brother, etc. It's not magic, just a little thoughtfulness.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

March 15, 2009 - COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS

2009-03-16T12:39:00.000-07:00

Prior to starting a Stated Communications, I like to come down from the East and meet the Craft on the Level. I use this opportunity to welcome the Brethren and discuss current events. I also review some Masonic Education. For March, I prepared the following article which I will review with them on Monday night. I hope you enjoy it:

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS by Tim Bryce

It's difficult to maintain a positive perspective in these troubling economic times. People are frustrated, despondent, even angry. But I have learned over the years, that no matter what disaster I may be faced with, there is always someone in worse shape than I am, such as a starving, uneducated third-world child who doesn't have a roof over his head, or his father who earns pennies a day to support his family. So, we should actually count the blessings we have got as opposed to banging our heads against the wall.

If you've got a job, thank your lucky stars you do, and renew your effort to make your company as successful as possible. Now is the time for cooperation as opposed to petty competition, teamwork as opposed to individualism. And by all means, take nothing for granted. Otherwise you might be the next one in the unemployment line.

If you are unemployed, be grateful we have unemployment programs to lend you a helping hand. But remember, there is no honor in becoming a ward of the state. Sharpen your skills, change with the times, and hustle for the next job.

If you are married, be thankful you are not going through a costly divorce now (which is horrible timing for doing so). Perhaps it is time to renew your devotion to your spouse and improve your family relationships.

If you have any savings, remind yourself there are many others out there without a safety net. Now is the time to wisely invest your money. It's hard to say who to trust in this regard, but perhaps a loan to a family member or neighbor who needs a helping hand is in order.

If you have a good credit record, consider the millions who do not. Try to keep your record as clean as possible, you will undoubtedly need it some day.

If you have some free time to participate in nonprofit organizations, consider yourself lucky, but remember, such groups will probably need more support as people's obligations are shifting and their participation declining.

If your Masonic Lodge building is structurally sound and in good condition, be grateful you are not looking at a major repair bill, such as a new roof or replacing the heating and air conditioning system. Consider there are Lodges out there that are in need of major repairs or, even worse, are closing their doors. It might be wise to start tucking a few dollars away for a rainy day so your Lodge doesn't end up in the same condition.

If you have people wanting to join your Lodge, make sure they are welcomed warmly and made to feel an important part of the Craft. There are some Lodges desperate for new members and are dying on the vine. Encourage the young Masons and challenge them to participate; the effect of a young man's enthusiasm can be contagious and a powerful agent for future growth.

If the administrative processes of your Lodge are performed like clockwork, thank your officers for making this a natural part of the Lodge's culture. There are some Lodges operating in organizational disarray, where paperwork and finances can be easily misplaced. This creates distrust and suspicion between the officers and the Craft.

If you have harmony in the Lodge, be grateful you are among men where their word is their bond, who believe in teamwork and cooperation as opposed to personal glory and political maneuvering. We have all seen enough of this in the outside world. Let us be men and let us rejoice in the spirit of Brotherhood.

If there is a silver lining in our current economic recession, I believe it is we will emerge from this mess stronger, more resilient, and hopefully smarter. Now is the time to stop whining and start believing in ourselves. The government is not going to solve all of our problems, nor is it their job to do so. To paraphrase Bro. Winston Churchill, "Nothing can save us if we will not save ourselves. If we lose faith in ourselves, in our capacity to guide and govern, if we lose our will to live, then indeed our story is told."

I admonish you not to despair; but to stay positive instead, to stay connected, to stay tuned in to what is going on, and become more proactive as opposed to reactive in our future. Just remember, the glass is half full, not half empty. Positive thinking is just as contagious as negative thinking, maybe more so. As we said back in the 1970's, "Keep on truckin'."

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

March 14, 2009 - MASONIC SCAVENGER HUNT

2009-03-15T17:38:00.000-07:00

We held our first Masonic Scavenger Hunt on Saturday, the purpose of which was to provide Masonic Education pertaining to the Lodge itself. The Brothers were divided into teams and were sent off around the City of Dunedin following clues as provided by the Worshipful Master.

Among the sites visited by the Brothers were the sites of earlier homes of the Lodge, the Dunedin Cemetery, which is the resting place for the founding fathers of Dunedin Lodge as well as the City itself (a veritable "Who's Who" of the movers and shakers of Dunedin), and a sports complex named after a Dunedin Past Master (and Past Mayor).

The hunt ended at the home of the Lodge's Secretary Emeritus where the Brethren were treated to a cookout featuring brats and refreshment. Although the group was small, everyone enjoyed the hunt and could see the educational and social value associated with it.

This was an interesting experiment for us, and I think the participants found it worthwhile. It also makes me think about establishing a test or roadmap for Entered Apprentices initiated into our Lodge. I think it is very important that they understand there is more to Freemasonry than just their catechism practice; they need to understand how the Lodge was formed and its impact on the community. Perhaps we give them an assignment of finding a lot of the Masonic historical markers around our city. Such a test would, hopefully, give our people a better sense of our history, not just our Lodge, but our community and the fraternity overall.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

March 12, 2009 - COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

2009-03-12T06:13:00.000-07:00

Here's a photo I want you to see:

In the upper left-hand corner is Dunedin Lodge's Senior Warden, W:.Ken Giesow, reading a book to a first grade class at Dunedin Elementary. The occasion was the school's "Read Across America" program and W:.Ken was invited to read Dr. Seuss books to Ms. Morrison's first grade class, the same class Dunedin Lodge sponsors. Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel ) was selected as Bro. Ken read the books on the author's birthday (March 2nd) which he read wearing an iconic "Cat in the Hat" hat.

Said Bro. Ken, "I don't know who enjoyed it more, the kids or myself; probably me!"

W:.Giesow is also the Chairman of the Lodge's "Bikes for Books" program at the school where the Lodge is providing bicycles to the top readers in grades K-5, both boys and girls. The bicycles will be presented at the end of the school year.

We're very lucky to have Brothers like W:.Ken who generously give of themselves back to the community. It's not only good for our schools and neighborhoods, but for the fraternity overall. If every Brother would volunteer their time in some small capacity like this, think of the difference we could make. "IMAGINE: If every Mason did just one thing!"

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

March 9, 2009 - SICKNESS & DISTRESS

2009-03-10T07:30:00.000-07:00

Last night the Lodge was dark as we had no degree work planned. As such, many of the Brothers took the opportunity to go visit a Brother at a local assisted-living facility. This particular Brother served the Lodge for many years as our Chaplain. In real life, he was a Minister and had a great voice for our degrees. I remember his distinct voice at my initiation, passing, raising, and installation as Worshipful Master in 2003. But he also has a great personality and fervent belief in the fraternity.

Unfortunately, his health has been slowly declining over the last two years and he is now confined to a wheelchair. This frustrates him greatly as he no longer has the freedom to visit Lodge anymore.

Since our Brother couldn't come to Lodge, we decided to take the Lodge to him by assembling a group of Brothers to pay him a visit at his assisted-living facility. After we arrived, the staff arranged for us to meet with him in a spacious meeting room upstairs. When the nurse wheeled him in the room, a big smile burst on his face as he was delighted to see so many familiar faces.

We sat and discussed with him what was happening in the Lodge and we discussed such things as membership, the condition of the building, social events, and news in general. To me, it was important that we didn't dwell on his health, but made him feel an important part of the Lodge. He seemed to greatly appreciate our banter about the Lodge and he asked a lot of questions. It seemed to me that his spirits were lifted considerably.

He is hoping that the Doctor will give him permission to attend Lodge, at which time we will have to make arrangements to pick him up and drop him off. One Brother offered him the use of a new wheel chair while at Lodge, which was greatly appreciated.

I don't think he wanted to see us leave but we could tell he was getting tired so the nurse took him back to his room. More importantly, I think all of us enjoyed the visit, not simply as an act of kindness, but because we genuinely care about our Brother.

When I was first becoming Worshipful Master in 2003, one of the best pieces of advice I received was to make sickness and distress a priority. I learned this from another Past Master from a neighboring Lodge and I believe it to be some very sage advice. Being a member of the Craft should be more than just paying dues and attending meetings, the Brothers like to know they matter to the Lodge. As such, it should behoove all Worshipful Masters to care for the Craft. If you cannot visit a brother in sickness or distress, a simple phone call or note can work wonders.

AS AN EPILOGUE, I RECEIVED THE FOLLOWING NOTE FROM THE DAUGHTER OF OUR BROTHER THE NEXT DAY:

How can I ever begin to thank you for the joy you brought to my Father last evening!!  

I spoke with him this morning and he was totally amazed that you brought the Lodge to him (I was too!)  What an awesome gift you gave him, allowing him to once again participate in a Masonic meeting.  He so misses the meetings, and the friendships with his Masonic brothers.  He was still so excited when I spoke with him and full of emotion!  

Once again thank you for taking the time the time from your busy lives and for the making the effort to make him so so happy!!!

As I replied to her, it was just as much our pleasure as it was his.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

March 2, 2009 - THE SENIOR DEACON & BAGPIPES

2009-03-03T08:21:00.000-08:00

We held an Entered Apprentice degree last night and all went well except we were without the services of our deacons. One had legal papers to sign for an adoption, and the other, who is a member of the Coast Guard, was involved in a search for some lost boaters (one was found clinging to his boat, his three other companions appear to be lost).

Because of this, we had to change some of the chair assignments for the degree and I ended up at Senior Deacon. I actually like Senior Deacon and consider it the best seat in the house. A good Senior Deacon can be an invaluable asset to a Worshipful Master simply by keeping the program moving along with crisp floor work and well delivered lines. The Senior Deacon's deportment materially affects the tone for the meeting, be it Called or Stated. He can either do it professionally (well rehearsed with a positive personality) or can be a slob who stumbles through everything; either way, the Senior Deacon has high visibility and can impact the attitude of the Brethren in attendance. If done poorly, don't expect visiting Brethren to return, but if done well, watch attendance increase at Lodge meetings.

On this particular evening, we also tried something different (go figure). At my Lodge it is customary for the Lodge officers to march in at the start of the meeting. This time, we were led in by a bagpiper who did a wonderful job. We are fortunate to have a very good piper serving the Lodge as Junior Steward. Since Dunedin has strong ties to Scotland, the use of the bagpipes was well received by the sideliners. True, we have an excellent organist in the Lodge, but our bagpiper was a particularly nice touch which seemed to be appreciated by just about everyone.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

February 27, 2009 - A LITTLE LEVITY

2009-02-27T07:49:00.000-08:00

As I was driving to a Masonic meeting earlier this week, it occurred to me that I haven't prepared an official Worshipful Master photo yet for the Lodge. As you know, I tend to break with tradition in order to spice things up a bit. Consequently, I started to think about what I could do differently this time around, maybe a nice Hawaiian shirt, something featuring my trademark cigar... And then it hit me, a mug shot. The next day I took a couple of pictures of myself holding a sign (which actually represents my Grand Lodge number). Here it is:

I then e-mailed it to members of the Lodge and asked for their opinion of my new Worshipful Master photo. I received an avalanche of e-mails from the Craft who thought it was hilarious. No, I do not want to use it as my official photo, but my intent was to introduce a little levity into the Craft and get them to loosen up a bit, thereby encouraging participation. And I think the photo produced the result I was looking for. If I can get people to come to Lodge because they believe it is fun and interesting, then I have fulfilled an important mission as a Master. But if they believe they are going to hear and see the same tired old thing over and over again, then I'm convinced participation will drop off.

The Worshipful Master ultimately sets the mood of the Lodge. If he is boring and lethargic, then the Craft will act likewise which isn't exactly conducive for stimulating attendance, participation, or encouraging new members. My photo may appear to be a bit silly, but the Craft didn't see it coming and enjoyed it immensely. I'm told there is a new sense of confidence and enthusiasm in the Lodge. Hopefully such stunts contribute to it.

I guess my message here is simple: If you're the Worshipful Master, believe me you are being watched by the Craft. Don't appear to be too doom and gloom. Try to lighten things up a little bit. You may be pleasantly surprised by its effect on the Craft.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

February 25, 2009 - WORD PROCESSING

2009-02-26T05:11:00.001-08:00

We held our second session for training in the use of the PC. Whereas our first session in January was aimed at the basics of the PC, now we turned to Word Processing. I used a laptop plugged into an overhead projector. Here is the outline of my session:

A. File Formats - .TXT, .ASC, .DOC, .PDF (Adobe)

B. How to "Find" files on the computer, including the use of the asterisk (*)
as a wildcard variable in the search argument.

C. Association of files to pertinent programs.

D. Review of different Word Processing packages available on the computer.
- DOS/Text Editor, Notepad, MS Write, MS Word, Lotus WordPro, Wordperfect, and
open source products.

E. Use of the Clipboard.

F. Common Commands - Edit, Search (Find/Replace), and Assigning the Printer

G. Setup - Fonts, Sizes, Justification, etc.

H. Use of keyboard - Page Up/Down, Backspace, Delete, Arrows

I. Advanced

1. Adding graphics - import/insert and paste from clipboard
2. Use of Spell Check
3. Converting to an HTML document (create web page)
4. Creating a PDF document

Comments from the class seemed to indicate session was helpful in terms of clearing up some basic confusion over the use of such programs.

Next month: Introduction to the Internet.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

February 25, 2009 - FESTIVE BOARD FOLLOW-UP

2009-02-25T07:40:00.000-08:00

I thought I would share the following e-mail I just received from one of the Brothers who attended Monday's Festive Board:

I just wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed the dinner and the speaker last night. My wife was very impressed with what he had to say. She is very involved in our church and has taken a lot of heat about me being a Mason. When she heard that Norman Vincent Peal was a Mason, her ears perked up. Now she is loaded for bear the next time one of the pillars of the church gives her grief about me being a Mason. She understands what Masonry is all about, but a lot of people just think we are a cult with all of our secrets. Anyway, she really enjoyed herself, and told my daughter, that she missed a good program.

This is one of the reasons why we are holding these sessions. Thanks for the input.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

February 24, 2009 - TROUBLE

2009-02-25T07:23:00.000-08:00

Last night I attended a Stated Communications of a Lodge in our district who is experiencing a serious problem. Last year's Secretary is charged with embezzling approximately $9,000 from the Lodge. This was discovered as part of the Lodge audit they recently performed (which is why I am a big proponent of Lodge audits being performed on a routine annual basis).

The trouble is, I know all of the parties involved and have known them to be good Masons. I am told the evidence against the Brother is overwhelming, but he maintains his innocence and contends this is all some sort of political payback. This is all very disturbing to me and I'm sure the rest of the Craft at that Lodge.

If the Brother is, in fact, guilty of the charges, I do not know how he could ever show his face in public again, particularly among Masons (I certainly would want nothing to do with him). If the charges are false, then the others are guilty of concocting a grand scheme to remove the Brother. Having known the accusers for a number of years, I cannot imagine them trumping up charges in this manner. As I said, it appears the evidence is overwhelming (although I have not personally seen it).

What bothers me is that I have known this Lodge for a long time, think highly of the members and would like to see this all go away so the Lodge can enjoy some harmony, but I'm afraid this is not to be. If the Brother is indeed guilty, I would hope that he would be man enough to fess up to it in Lodge, and return the money. In turn, I would hope that the Lodge would be lenient on his penalty. But like I said, in all likelihood this will not happen.

As a Worshipful Master I thank my lucky stars that we do not have such problems, and I think it is because we operate the Lodge very methodically whereby such a scenario could never happen.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

February 23, 2009 - FUNERAL & FESTIVE

2009-02-24T08:23:00.000-08:00

It was interesting last night. First, we held a Masonic funeral service for our recently departed Brother, Bro. Warren Bundy (see last posting). By my count, there were 30 Masons present representing Dunedin 192, Sutherland 174, and East Gate 355. The funeral service went off without a hitch and I am grateful to our Acacia Committee for organizing the ceremony. The widow was very much appreciative of our efforts and complimented us on the dignity and respect shown by the Craft. I just wish we could get such a large turnout for all of our Masonic funeral services.

Following the service, we adjourned to a nearby restaurant for a "Festive Board" which is not a Lodge sanctioned event, but more of a gathering of the clan (all Masons are welcome as well as their family, friends, and candidates for the fraternity). Our guest speaker is an old friend of mine who described the reasons why he joined the fraternity, read some Masonic poetry, and reviewed some famous Masons. As in our first Festive Board last month, everyone had a great time, socialized, and learned a little more about the fraternity.

My only concern was that our Festive Boards are becoming bigger and bigger. We were up to the capacity of the room and, if we get any bigger, we may have to find new facilities.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

February 19, 2009 - A DEATH IN THE FAMILY

2009-02-19T11:27:00.000-08:00

Today I was notified of the passing of one of our Brothers, Bro. Warren Bundy, who had been in the hospital since December due to a strange lung problem. Evidently when he ate, the food would go into his lung. He underwent a procedure yesterday in the hospital to correct the problem, but unfortunately he couldn't survive it and he perished this morning. His widow called me to give me the details and she will be wanting a Masonic funeral service for Warren which my Lodge will perform.

This is a painful loss for me personally as I've known Warren for a number of years. We traveled to the Fort Clinch Civil War degrees (on Amelia Island, north of Jacksonville) on more than one occasion, and attended numerous Masonic degrees together. I was fortunate to have him as my Tyler when I was Master of Sutherland Lodge in 2003, and he was to be my Tyler here in Dunedin this year. Unfortunately, we were never able to get him installed due to his declining health.

Warren was an interesting fellow; he was a New York State Trooper, College Professor, and even coached baseball/softball for many years. When I visited him in the hospital recently and mentioned the Pistol Competition being proposed by the SunCoast Masters & Wardens Association, his ears perked up as he wanted to participate in it. He had a great sense of humor and up until a couple of years ago was an avid golfer and cigar smoker. The last time the Craft saw him was at my Festivus Party last December.

Prior to my becoming Master of Sutherland in 2003, I had lunch with three people whose opinion I greatly respected. My intent was to discuss ideas for the future of the Lodge. They were Alan Leverock, Sid Heller, and Warren Bundy. Alas, all three are now gone and I will greatly miss them, but will never forget their words of wisdom to me.

Dunedin Lodge is very fortunate to have a dedicated group of Brothers who can competently put on a Masonic funeral. We call it our Acacia Committee and they have put on numerous such degrees over the years. As far as I'm concerned, every Mason has an obligation to attend Masonic funeral if their cable-tow permits them. It is the very least we can do for our departed Brothers.

Warren was a good man and Mason, and I, for one, will miss him very much.

Alas, my Brother.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

February 17, 2009 - FREEMASONRY IN ACTION

2009-02-18T06:58:00.000-08:00

Last night I visited my old Lodge where I served as Master back in 2003, Sutherland Lodge No. 174. I had come to talk to the Worshipful Master about some joint projects between our two Lodges, including an upcoming outdoor MM degree.

Prior to the meeting, I stood in front of the Lodge smoking a cigar and met a young man who was nervously rehearsing his EA catechism as he was going to be examined that evening. I asked if he needed some help and, saying yes, I then went about examining him carefully. Although he was somewhat nervous, he knew his work well and did an excellent job. As a WM, it was a delight to listen to a young EA who took his catechism seriously.

In talking with Sutherland's Master, he said there wasn't much work planned for the evening's communications, other than the EA examination. He also mentioned, he hadn't planned the Brother's FC degree yet. Since this was going to be one of the Brothers to be raised in our outdoor degree in April, I said to the WM, "Why wait?" Why not put on the degree tonight?, assuming the Brother passes his examination (which he did with flying colors). The Master thought this was a good idea. Consequently, he expedited the Lodge's business, held the EA examination, and set the Lodge at ease to prepare for the degree.

A Past District Deputy who happened to be visiting the Lodge that night sat in the East for the degree and I was asked to handle the SD duties. Frankly, the degree went off smoothly and we passed the Brother to FC in no time at all. Everyone enjoyed the degree and was impressed that we could put on a degree at the drop of a hat. It was definitely, "Freemasonry in Action" (as opposed to waiting weeks or months to get something done). It was a great night which will long be remembered in that Lodge.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

February 16, 2009 - TALKING TO THE CRAFT & HONORARY MEMBERS

2009-02-18T06:39:00.000-08:00

We held our February Stated Communications last Monday night and all went well; a few observations though:

First, we did a fine job opening and closing the Lodge, but I realize we still need some polish in terms of introducing first time visitors, balloting, and making presentations. I'll work on this.

Second, after opening the Lodge in the MM degree, I stepped it down to the FC degree for two Brothers to give back their catechism examination by our Lodge Instructor (who does a great job for us). In order to save time, we have three Past Masters listen to the catechism prior to the communications; if they are satisfied, the candidates do their obligation and token in the Lodge room, where the Craft then votes on for acceptance. This saves us a lot of time, particularly on an evening when we have a lot of work planned. Following acceptance of the examination, I set the Lodge at ease for a few minutes so the Craft can come down on the floor and congratulate our Brothers (both did an excellent job). This is greatly appreciated by the candidates and recognizes their hard work.

Third, starting with last month's communications I've added something new to our meeting routine. Following the opening, I step down to the floor and talk to the Craft directly, kind of like Jay Leno to his audience (although there is certainly no comparison). I welcome the Craft, thank them for coming, recognize the Junior Warden for the meal that evening, discuss sickness and distress, and review the Masonic news of the day so the Craft can stay abreast of Freemasonry. I then close with a joke. My intent is to set the Craft at ease for the evening, yet make them aware of what we're going to discuss for the evening. So far, so good.

Finally, included in our business for the evening were two resolutions to recognize some outside Brothers as Honorary members of the Lodge. To me, I do not believe in handing out Honorary memberships simply because someone has a title. Instead, they must have done something of significance for the Lodge and this, in turn, is a nice way to recognize their efforts. As far as I'm concerned, passing out Honorary memberships without merit discredits the honor and makes it meaningless.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

February 11, 2009 - OFFICERS MEETING

2009-02-13T12:36:00.000-08:00

We held our first regular officers meeting. As you may recall, earlier we held officer meetings to break the ice and establish policy, but this was now our first routine meeting where we discussed the business of the Lodge.

As with any meeting, I printed up an agenda and followed it throughout the meeting. Basically, it consisted of the following:

A. Treasurer's Report

B. Secretary's Report

C. Committee Reports
- Finance Committee
- Building Committee
- Social Committee
- Acacia Committee (funerals)

D. Review calendar of events for the next two months.

E. Reviewed the Agenda for the upcoming Stated Communications, including pending
business to be voted or balloted upon.

F. Miscellaneous - e.g., we discussed the contents, preparation and distribution of our Trestleboard newsletter.

The benefit of these meetings is that it gets all of the officers on the same wave-length which makes for a smooth Stated Communications next Monday. Problems are discussed and dealt with accordingly. When the Craft come to the Lodge, the last thing they want to hear is some bickering over some triviality, which should be the intent of committee meetings (or these officer meetings). In other words, I believe the officers should have done their homework before going before the Craft.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

February 9, 2009 - TEAMWORK & BONDING

2009-02-10T07:42:00.000-08:00

Last night the Lodge held an Entered Apprentice degree for a new candidate. Everything seemed to go well. Our Secretary sat in the East and I sat as Junior Deacon. I could have done the degree myself but I think it is important to give others the opportunity to practice the work and improve our corps of officers. I am also encouraging our junior officers to learn the degrees. Sure, we have plenty of past masters who can do the work, but if the Lodge is going to progress, it's important that new people step up to the plate.

To my way of thinking, it's not about me (as Worshipful Master), it's about the overall Lodge. I learned this lesson years ago from Bro. Jack Benny, the famous comedian from Waukegan Lodge No. 78 A.F.& A.M. of Illinois. Bro. Benny always understood the importance of teamwork. It was his contention that it was the show that was of paramount importance, not him personally. In fact, Benny was often the butt of many of the jokes. But to him, it was more important that people said, "Did you catch the Benny show last night?" and not "Did you catch Jack Benny last night?" He often offered up generous accolades to his writers, his cast, and his guests. Keep in mind, the Benny program was always highly rated, both on the radio and on television. So I think Bro. Jack was on to something.

Following the degree, many of us went off the property, drank a few beers, and talked about the degree and upcoming events. This get-together was every bit as important as the actual degree itself. The Brothers were able to relax and discuss a lot of ideas for the Lodge. Beyond this, it improved camaraderie and is helping to establish an Esprit de corps among the Brethren. Yes, it is important for me to put in my two cents, but it also important that the Brethren feel their input is an important part of running the Lodge. One of the ideas that emerged from the meeting was some sort of Men's Retreat, whereby we take off for a weekend and do either a canoe trip or camp out. In my opinion, such events are important for Brotherly bonding.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

February 2, 2009 - OUR 2ND DEGREE (first timers)

2009-02-04T08:31:00.000-08:00

We held our second degree of the year, another Fellow Craft, for two EA Brothers. All in all, it went over rather well. Our Junior Deacon from last year wanted to try sitting in the East for the degree which was actually his second time. Last year he had his first chance and did well but was extremely nervous. This time, he looked like he was more comfortable and did an outstanding job. In addition to leading the degree, he also delivered the charge (and was spot-on perfect).

I find it interesting how we get nervous and apprehensive sitting in the East for the first time. But if you know your degree work and know what you are doing, you'll be fine. I always stress to first-timers to stay in control, be patient (nothing happens until the WM makes the call), put your best foot forward, but recognize you will inevitably make some mistake along the way (which you should correct). I also stress that the Master should never apologize for any snafu during the degree, especially if the candidate is in the room. To me, this demeans the role of the Master. You made an honest mistake; okay, kick the ball and move along.

Also this night, our regular Senior Deacon and Chaplain were absent (they had notified me in advance) and I was fortunate to have two good Brothers step up to fill the chairs and did a great job. I was going to take the Senior Deacon's chair but I thought it was more important for others to practice instead. As for me, I ended up as Tiler and had fun teasing the Junior Deacon at the door.

Next up is an Entered Apprentice degree next week and our Secretary, who is a Past Master, wants to sit in the East. We'll have a practice on Wednesday night. Should be fun.

It's also time to start assembling our Lodge's "Trestleboard" newsletter and I have notified my officers accordingly. In the newsletter, I try to make my comments meaningful and avoid saying the same tired thing. Rarely do I talk about what happened in the past (what's done is done). Instead, I tend to talk about the future.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

January 28, 2009 - PC TRAINING

2009-01-29T06:59:00.000-08:00

Last night (Wednesday) we held the first in a series of PC training classes. The purpose of these classes is to make the Craft more proficient in the use of computers thereby improving their administrative and communications skills. It is hoped that by doing these classes, which are open to the public, this will help the attendees personally, professionally, as well as Masonically.

Our first class was on the basic use of the computer. Here was my outline:

Components of the computer:
- Motherboard, Processor, Memory, Disk, Screen, Keyboard, Mouse
- Peripherals: printers, scanners, cameras, microphones, external drives
- Plugs - USB, Wireless, telephone, cable, serial ports

Operating System
- History - text/command driven
- Concepts: virtual memory, multitasking, multithreading, clipboard, Java

File System
- Hierarchy
- file name structure (8.3)
- types of files .EXE .CMD .BAT
- graphics: BMP, JPG, GIF, TIFF
- text: .TXT
- multimedia: .MPG .WMV .AVI .MP3 .RM .
- File sizes - KB/MB/GB/TB
- ASCII versus Binary files

Keyboard/Mouse relationship
- Use of Mouse - left/right click

Navigating the Desktop
- Tailoring the desktop

Basic Housekeeping
- backup/UPS/surge protection/antivirus

This introductory session mostly relied on lecture and blackboard. I didn't make extensive use of the computer during the session. The next few sessions will.

The session last approximately 90 minutes, including questions and answers. We had a dozen people in attendance, but I hope to have more next time. We are holding these sessions on the fourth Wednesday of the month at the Lodge (7:00pm). Our next one is scheduled for Wednesday, February 25th, where we will be covering WORD PROCESSING.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

January 26, 2009 - FESTIVE BOARD

2009-01-27T11:04:00.000-08:00

Last night, a group of Masons met at a local restaurant to hold a "Festive Board" which, to our interpretation, was simply a social outing of family and friends to celebrate and discuss Freemasonry. This was NOT a Lodge sponsored event but simply a gathering of the clan. The event was open to the public and no business or proprietary Masonic work was discussed. We simply wanted to kick back with the Brethren and their families and socialize.

This was our first such outing and I acted as Master of Ceremonies. We opened with a pledge to the flag, an invocation, followed by a toast to our visitors and another to those in sickness and distress. I also gave some brief anecdotes about Freemasonry (including the legendary "Knife and Fork Degree") and reviewed some upcoming events before letting the attendees settle in to their dinners, which they ordered off of the menu. At the end of the meal I introduced our after dinner speaker who was a good friend of mine and a Past Master and Past District Deputy Grand Master who discussed a paper he had written entitled, "Brother against Brother: Freemasonry in the Civil War," which was well received by those in attendance.

The reaction to the Festive Board was very favorable. The Brothers enjoyed having a social outing they could enjoy with their spouses as well as their friends. Many could see this could be a good way to introduce the fraternity to viable candidates.

The Festive Board went over so well that I am worried about space for the next one. We accommodated 36 people for this first meeting, but I think we are on to something and will get many more next time (two Lodges participated). Prior to this event, I was warned not to get my hopes up for its success, but this proved to be wrong. For the next one though, I am going to insist on people making reservations.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

January 21, 2009 - MASTERS & WARDENS ASSOCIATION

2009-01-22T08:55:00.001-08:00

Last night we hosted the first meeting of the SunCoast Masters & Wardens Association. This is a not-for-profit organization representing the fourteen Masonic Craft Lodges in Districts 20 & 21 (Pinellas and West Pasco Counties). I volunteered our Lodge to host the event at the group's last meeting of 2008. I did this for a couple of reasons: first, I wanted to expose my junior officers to the organization so they could start to get a feel of what the other Lodges in our area were experiencing, and; second, I wanted to showcase our Lodge and communicate the message that we warmly welcome visitors.

Forty Brothers from around the area came to visit us on a cold Wednesday night (cold by Florida standards, not by northern standards).

Prior to the meeting, the host Lodge is charged with providing a sit-down dinner which attendees pay a nominal fee for. My Junior Warden did an outstanding job setting this up and the Craft volunteered to help out, including an Entered Apprentice and Fellow Craft. Instead of forming a buffet line with paper plates and plastic utensils (which has become somewhat traditional common in a lot of Masonic lodges), we opted to wait on the attendees and served them on plates and silverware which I believe was appreciated by the attendees. The food was not lavish, but it was certainly good. We were fortunate to have a restauranteur as a member of the Craft who provided a fantastic Greek salad and superb deserts. All in all, our Junior Warden and his assistants did a bang up job and actually had fun putting it all together. Even better, they made money on the event which will be used for future meals at the Lodge.

As to the Association itself, I see it as an important organization for local Wardens and Masters to network and learn to help each other (it makes a great safety net). I have personally established many friends as a result of the group, and learned a lot from the experience. In 2005 I was privileged to serve the group as President and I still volunteer to help on committees. But frankly, I'm surprised when Lodges don't participate in the Association. I find they tend to suffer from Tunnel Vision and have trouble thinking of Freemasonry beyond the four walls of their Lodge. Very strange.

As for Dunedin Lodge though, we found last night's Masters & Wardens meeting to be a "Win-Win" situation.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

January 19, 2009 - 1ST STATED COMMUNICATIONS

2009-01-20T08:45:00.000-08:00

Last night we held our first Stated Communications of the year. This is one of our busiest meetings of the year as we had a lot of business to tend to; lots of minutes and correspondence to catch-up on, an EA proficiency examination, one EA petition to accept, a review of the audit for 2008, a review and passage of the budget for 2009, several motions to attend to for the new year, and some Masonic education. It was quite busy. Nonetheless, both the Secretary and myself kept things moving along and we ended at 8:45pm (which I do not consider too bad). Nor do I think we put anyone to sleep.

We also had over 50 Brothers in attendance which is considered a good night. We also had four first time visitors who I was pleased to welcome on the level and presented them with first time visitor cards. To me, it is very important to make our first time visitors feel welcome in the Lodge so they will come back to visit us and speak well of our Lodge.

Just prior to the meeting, the Dunedin Brothers paused to pose for our annual class photo (which has become a tradition with us in recent years). This is simply a snapshot of the Brethren which is used on the cover of our web site to welcome visitors to our Lodge. To see the photo, please see our web site as listed below.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Brothers from two Lodges tried to lay claim to the Traveling Gavel in our possession. The gavel, which is sponsored by our local Masters & Wardens Association, is used to promote inter-Lodge visitation. The Lodge with the most Brothers gets the gavel. However, on this occasion both Lodges had ten members each. I thereby had to break the deadlock. To this end, I selected the Lodge with the most officers in attendance. The other Lodge accepted defeat graciously, but I'm sure they will secure the gavel soon. We posted a photo from the event on our web site (see the "News" section).

I tried something different for Masonic Education. Instead of staying behind my podium, I came down to the floor and talked to the Craft about what was going on in the district. I also read some recent news clippings about Freemasonry from around the world. My intent is to cause the Craft to think about the fraternity from a global perspective, not just local. Hopefully my talk was well received.

One last note; prior to the meeting, our Junior Warden and Stewards put on an excellent dinner which everyone seemed to enjoy. The camaraderie from the dinner set the stage for a very productive meeting. We covered a lot of ground. Thanks to everyone for their efforts and attendance.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

January 14, 2009 - COMMITTEES

2009-01-15T07:06:00.000-08:00

I met with the Building Committee, Social Committee, and Acacia Committee to outline their activities for the coming year. As you may recall, we discussed the Finance Committee in my January 7th entry. The Building Committee oversees the modifications/improvements to our Lodge building, the Social Committee organizes social events, and the Acacia Committee handles Masonic funerals.

My overall philosophy on committees is to manage from the bottom-up. In other words, empower the committees, give them some direction and support, but otherwise stay out of their way and let them do their work. Whereas others like to micromanage everything, I believe adults are smart enough to supervise themselves. If they've got a problem I can help them with or if I can run interference for them, I'll be happy to do so, otherwise it is up to them to make things happen.

We started by reviewing the activities of the Acacia Committee which has been an important part of our Lodge for a number of years. In addition to performing Masonic funerals for Lodge members and sojourners, the group also performs a special ceremony on Memorial Day for the Lodge. We are fortunate to have this committee and Brothers dedicated to performing a first class service for our departed Brothers. As an aside, I have always believed that it is a Mason's duty to attend a Masonic funeral service if it is within the length of his cable-tow. A polished funeral service is very much appreciated by the departed Brother's family. The committee is planning a couple of rehearsals to review the service.

Nest, we discussed the activities of the Building Committee. Basically, I am looking to these Brothers to offer advice on how to improve the Lodge. I want them to develop a punch list of items to be addressed by the Lodge in priority sequence. I also want them to develop a monthly calendar outlining when certain things have to be cleaned and inspected. I also asked them to organized pertinent Work Parties when required whereby the Craft pitches in to clean or repair something. Following the meeting, we took a tour of the Lodge attic where various items are stored and need to be cleaned out.

Finally, we talked with the Social Committee. Basically, I am looking for one major social event per quarter. I told them to use their imaginations and come up with new ideas. I also made it clear there is a big difference between a social and a fund raiser, the two are most definitely not synonymous. I am open to suggestion on just about anything. There is one event I am going to organize myself, and that is a Masonic Scavenger Hunt which will be both educational and fun, and a good way for Brothers to enjoy some camaraderie.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

January 13, 2009 - SICKNESS & DISTRESS

2009-01-13T16:43:00.000-08:00

After work today I went to a nearby hospital to check on two Brothers recuperating there. One was recovering from an acute case of pneumonia and another had an operation earlier in the day to replace a hip. Both are expected to recover but will undoubtedly require weeks of rehab. I believe both Brothers were pleasantly surprised to see me and enjoyed the visit.

Years ago, before I became a Worshipful Master the first time, I learned a valuable lesson from another Past Master who taught me the importance of looking after your Lodge's sickness and distressed. I have found this to be excellent advice and greatly appreciated by the Craft. Whether it is a visit to a hospital bed, a telephone call, or a simple get well card, the Brothers greatly appreciate knowing that another Mason is thinking about them and, because of this, it can help lift their spirits. It is truly remarkable what a kind word and a handshake can do for people. A little Brotherly consideration can go a long way. Not only is it appreciated by the Brother, but by his family as well.

I have a favorite story that exemplifies Masonic brotherhood in this regard. Years ago, one of our older Brothers fell ill due to cancer (as an aside, he was one of the Brothers who served on my investigation committee when I originally petitioned to join the Craft). He had fought cancer before, but now he was losing his battle and had just a few days to live. As one of his last requests, he wanted to enjoy a glass of wine, but his relatives wouldn't let him due to their religious beliefs (they were Baptists). Nonetheless, the dying Brother was adamant in his desire for a drink. Consequently, a Brother smuggled a bottle of wine into the hospital for him, which was greatly appreciated. I guess the Brother providing the wine couldn't find it in his heart to say "No" to another Brother particularly when there was little time remaining.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

January 12, 2009 - FIRST COMMUNICATIONS (FC DEGREE)

2009-01-13T06:55:00.001-08:00

We held our first communications for the new year, a Fellow Craft degree for two fine young Brothers. I had not sat in the East for a FC degree in quite some time and I was a little apprehensive about forgetting something. Nonetheless, we opened and closed Lodge perfectly and overall the degree went off fairly well. We still have a couple of rough edges to work on but I was pretty proud of my junior officers for the first time out and told them so.

If you know me, you know I like to kid around, but I take the degree work rather seriously and want to give the candidates the best we have to offer. Years ago, our Lodge was well known as a model of efficiency in its floor work. I am slowly trying to get us back to our old form and I think we are headed in the right decision.

Interestingly, we had over 30 Brothers in attendance for the degree with one first time visitor and a handful of return visitors. I believe we made everyone feel welcome and put on a good show for them. This is important as I want the word to spread that Dunedin's hospitality and camaraderie results in return visitors and higher attendance.

For pictures from the degree, please see the "News" section of our web site.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

January 7, 2009 - FINANCE COMMITTEE

2009-01-07T06:01:00.000-08:00

The Lodge's Finance Committee is meeting for the first time this evening and it is chaired by our Senior Warden, W:.Ken Giesow, PM. I am fortunate to have Ken as my SW as his feet are planted firmly in the ground and I trust his judgment.

The first two tasks of the Finance Committee is to audit our finances, followed by a preparation of a budget for the operating year. I consider both of these activities extremely important. I have seen far too many Lodges operate without either an audit or a budget, and frankly it is embarrassingly sloppy to see any nonprofit group operate in this manner. Some people fear the audit will uncover some problems; Good! That is what they are intended to do, but more importantly I see the Finance Committee as a neutral party who can give us some insight as to what we can be doing better in managing the Lodge's finances. Not long ago, I wrote an article on this subject, "The Necessity of Lodge Audits" which I had the committee read prior to starting the audit.

As a past Secretary (one who is intimately involved with the handling of money) I see the audit as a way to validate my actions during the year. Only someone who has something to hide will voice opposition to an audit.

The budget is another area I have been battling people with over the years. There are those who somehow believe there are two budgets during the year: one for collecting the money for the current year (primarily dues), and one for collecting dues money for the next year. Baloney. As officers, we are charged with managing the affairs of the Lodge on a yearly cycle; in Florida, it is essentially from January to December. There is only one budget, regardless if dues money is collected from last year or the coming year. There is absolutely no rational reason for separating them. However, if it important to you to differentiate dues money received during the year, then adjust your Chart of Accounts accordingly (to earmark money received for last year, and for next year).

For more information on Chart of Accounts, see:
"Establishing a Chart of Accounts.

We require the audit and budget be presented at our first Stated Communications which is scheduled for January 19th. Following this, the Finance Committee is responsible for reviewing our investment portfolio and making recommendations to the Craft in terms of how to manage it.

Until next time.

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

January 5, 2009 - 1ST MEETING WITH OFFICERS

2009-01-05T12:09:00.000-08:00

I held my first formal meeting with the new Lodge officers for the year. At this time, I covered the following
subjects as the first step in educating them:

I reviewed the article I wrote,

"So you want to be a Lodge officer, eh?", specifically, I emphasized there is more to being a
Lodge officer than putting on a white dinner jacket and marching around the Lodge room.
I also emphasized the point that there is no such thing as an insignificant chair in the Lodge,
that each chair carries important duties and responsibilities.
I reviewed the Job Descriptions of each chair in terms of what is expected.
I reviewed the Dress Code we would observe this year, which would be dress-up for degree work,
and Lodge Polo shirts for Stated Communications and other affairs. Up until now, all Masonic
functions had been dress-up affairs, which many Brothers have trouble with, particularly in
the summer months when it gets particularly hot in Florida.
As I wanted to stress the need to understand the Masonic world around us; as such, I want my officers
to do the following:
- Visit our neighboring Lodges as a group and observe how they do things.
- Attend the local Masters & Wardens Association Meetings, thereby getting to know the other
  officers in our area.
- Read the Trestleboard newsletters from the other Lodges. They may be boring, but every
  now and then you learn a new trick or two, or find out about some special event they have planned
  (which we might want to try ourselves). I asked the officers to read and initial each newsletter
  coming into the Lodge.
I reviewed the standard operating procedures to be observed:
- Keep Your Word - if you cannot do something, fine, but tell us up front.
  Do not volunteer for something you have no intention of performing.
- Be on time - if you cannot make a meeting, let me know in advance so I can make other arrangements.
- Challenge the Status Quo - be innovative and adapt.
- Make the Lodge fun and interesting.
I stressed the importance of performing 1st Class degree work. This included some
"Floorwork 101" instruction, followed by a rehearsal.

My objective was to set the proper stage for the Lodge officers and let them know what is expected of them. Hopefully it will sink in.

Until next time...

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

January 3, 2009 - INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS

2009-01-04T09:19:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, January 3rd at 1:00pm, Dunedin Lodge installed its officers for 2009. From my perspective, it was a good installation with plenty of food friends and fellowship. After turning the gavel over to me, I thanked my installation team and gave them small presents. I also introduced our Secretary Emeritus, W:.Rome Scerbo, who served the Lodge as Secretary of the Lodge for 17 years, more than anyone else. I also presented the outgoing Worshipful Master with his Past Master's apron, which he very much appreciated.

I then delivered my acceptance speech -

"A funny thing happened to me on my way here..." To become Worshipful Master in a Masonic Lodge, most people progress through the chairs going from Steward, to Deacons, to Wardens, and finally to Master. It can take as long as seven years. As for me, it has taken me 12 years with a detour through another Lodge and returning here as Secretary. In other words, I tend to do things DIFFERENTLY than most. Nonetheless, it is an honor to become Master of Dunedin Lodge and I will endeavor to tackle the assignment with the same enthusiasm as I had when I was first made a Master in 2003.

These are tumultuous times. We have a new administration coming into the White House, unemployment continues to grow like a cancer, we are engaged in a worldwide economic panic which I pray does not turn into a depression, we are still at war with terrorists who threaten our way of life, and the moral values of our society are eroding. In other words, we are embarking on a new year with suspicion, nervousness and great uncertainty.

Let us also consider the state of the fraternity in Florida since my last term as Worshipful Master in 2003. Since then, we are down by 7,160 members and for the first time in a long, long time we are under 50,000 members. This also means we have been losing approximately 1,200 members annually. What does this tell us? Has the fraternity lost its relevance? Is it nothing more than an old man's club? I think not. Freemasonry is a beautiful concept that has lost its brilliance due to complacency and stagnation. As Pogo said, "We have met the enemy and he is us."

As Masons we can ill-afford to conduct "business as usual." Maybe it's time to do things DIFFERENTLY. If we do not, we will be guilty of indifference and negligence of duty. I for one do not want to be accused by my successors as the generation who dropped the ball. Being a Mason used to mean something, but I cannot bring myself to believe it is an irrelevant institution.

We are supposed to be building men of character. This means promoting knowledge, morality, and trust. "Plumbum per Exempoator" is Latin for "Lead by Example." As Masons we must become the moral compass this fraternity used to be known as. By doing so, not only do we help ourselves, but we help our communities, and the world at large. Let not the fraternity be known as a symbol of yesteryear, but as a modern symbol of hope, morality, and integrity; a symbol which people, both young and old, can respect and admire. To do so requires new thinking, new attitudes, and new ideas. Let us avoid the humdrum. Let us avoid the monotony of routine. I admonish you to challenge the status quo.

Let us question; let us think; let us be DIFFERENT.

Let us be True Masons.

After closing the Lodge everyone came over to my office where we had a nice reception.

I then went to the Installation of Officers at my old Lodge, Sutherland 174, and congratulated the incoming Worshipful Master, Frank Gaughan, and wished him luck for 2009.

Later, I assembled a group of Brothers from Dunedin Lodge to go to Star Lodge No. 78 in Largo who was also having their Installation of Lodge Officers and, as a Called Communications, we seized on the opportunity to obtain the Traveling Gavel which was in Star's possession. The gavel is sponsored by our local Masters & Wardens Association to promote inter-Lodge visitations. My first order of business was to secure the gavel and bring it home to Dunedin, which I considered a bit of a coup. For more on this, and for a photo of the Lodge's new officers, please see the web site at:

www.dunedin192.org

This coming week, hold my first official meeting with my officers

December 29, 2008 - INSTALLATION REHEARSAL

2008-12-29T18:16:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday we conducted a rehearsal for the upcoming Installation of Lodge officers scheduled for this coming Saturday, January 3rd at 1:00pm. This will be open to the public. The rehearsal went off fine and we have everything ready for the ceremony, including programs, a copy of our Bylaws, the Digest (Florida governing docs), working tools, and the Holy Bible. I even had the officers try on their aprons so they fit properly (nothing more embarrassing than an apron that doesn't fit while putting it on during the installation - I have even seen some Brothers deliberately open up the belts prior to the installation as a gag).

Normally, we have Past Masters from the Lodge preside over the ceremony, but I wanted to do something slightly different. It will, of course, follow the ceremony as prescribed by our Grand Lodge, but I assembled a different team of officers for the installation:

W:.Jarvis Woods, PM will be the presiding officer. W:.Woods succeeded me as Worshipful Master at Sutherland Lodge No. 174 in Palm Harbor and he did a wonderful job. He has been a Mason for over 40 years and we have developed a strong kinship as a result of the fraternity. I have valued his advice and friendship for years. In fact, he taught me my first lesson about being a Lodge officer (although I'm sure he has probably forgotten telling it to me); it was simply that "every chair in the Lodge is an important responsibility." Very true. Bro. Jarvis is originally from Virginia and has a smooth southern voice with a touch of southern aristocracy in it. Plus, he knows what good pork barbecue is all about!

Our Marshall will be R:.H:.Ed Street, PM, PDI (for those of you outside of Florida, R:.H:. means "Right Honorable" to denote a Past District Instructor; this is a new title enacted by our Grand Lodge just a couple of years ago). Bro. Ed is one of the hardest working Masons in our area. He doesn't think twice about helping a Lodge or a Brother with either a degree, a lecture, or whatever. Because of his hard work, Dunedin Lodge recognized him by making him an Honorary Member of our Lodge as a small token of thanks for all of his efforts. I am lucky to secure his services.

And finally, my Installing Chaplain will be R:.W:.Ed Phero, PM, PDI, PDDGM from nearby Clearwater Lodge No. 127 F.& A.M. I have been fortunate to know Bro. Ed for a long time now. He was District Deputy when I became a Mason and I have enjoyed his humor and advice ever since. I have always know R:.W:.Ed as a man of integrity. A Mason's Mason. This has not gone unnoticed by our Lodge either as we voted him an Honorary member of our Lodge last year.

I selected these three Brothers because I have developed a bond with them over the years while traveling throughout the area. This is not a slight against any Past Master from Dunedin (who customarily installs our officers), but I do hope to accent the need for expanding our vision and to think of Freemasonry as a bigger concept than just the four walls of our Lodge room.

In addition, I have secured the services of Bro. Steve Andrews who will be our bagpiper for the start of our ceremonies. This has become an important tradition at Dunedin Lodge, particularly to the many Scots in our area (including yours truly). I've asked him to pipe us in with "Scotland the Brave" (what else?).

Following the installation service, a reception will be held immediately afterwards at my offices which are just a couple of miles from the Lodge.

Aside from all this, I've closed the Secretary's books for 2008 and have everything ready to turn over to my successor, W:.Bob Matheson, PM. We've cleaned up the office and have it ready for a new Masonic year. Should be fun.

Until next time...

All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"

December 23, 2008 - CHRISTMAS

2008-12-23T07:34:00.000-08:00

Since all is quiet before the holidays, I thought I would leave you with a column I wrote last year as to my feelings about Christmas. I hope you enjoy it.

I don't want to sound like Scrooge or the Grinch, but Christmas is not one of my favorite holidays. I see it more as something for the kids as opposed to adults. Before I get started though, I want to make something perfectly clear; I still refer to this season as "Christmas" as opposed to the "Holidays" which may sound more politically correct, but to me it's an admission that Christians are in retreat in this country. I am not a super-religious person mind you, but it bothers me that we have turned the celebration of Christ's birth into a marketing bonanza. To illustrate my point, consider the following:

We spend millions on lights and decorations around the house as opposed to investing in our planet and conserving energy resources.
Instead of helping the less fortunate, we give opulent gifts to people who really do not need them. Last time I checked, there are still places in the world where people are sick and hungry, and need an education or a roof over their heads.
As opposed to trying to replenish our forests, we kill trees to do nothing more than decorate our homes for a few scant days.
Instead of promoting Christ's words of peace, we are still at war with ourselves, particularly at the checkout counter.

If this has all changed, I must have missed the memo on it.

In the workplace, we exchange superficial gifts more because we feel we have to rather than because we want to. I would much rather have a heartfelt handshake than most of the gifts I have received in the office. But then again, this probably isn't politically correct either. I have even seen people compete over who is going to give the most extravagant gift to someone for political purposes as opposed to the generosity of their heart.

It is also customary to hold office parties this time of year, much to the delight of caterers, restaurants, hotels, entertainers, etc. But I wonder if the substantial money expended here would be put to better use by rewarding the employees with a bonus instead.

Following Thanksgiving, the media immediately shifts its programming into the Yule tide swing with Christmas music on the radio, and specials on television. It seems a little like brainwashing to me to force you into the Christmas spirit weeks before the actual holiday. I'm sorry, but I don't like being coerced into anything.

I wonder what Jesus would say about all of these shenanigans. First, he would probably wonder who the jolly fat guy was in the red outfit. I imagine he would tell us that we all have our priorities wrong. I can even hear him say, "Hey guys, you even got the day wrong!"

If Jesus were to come back, I'd bet he would be kidnapped by the marketing people for at least the month of December, maybe longer.

With this said, I sincerely wish everyone, be you a Christian, a Jew, a Muslim, or whatever, a very merry Christmas, not because I'm trying to force my religious beliefs down your throat, but because I genuinely wish you Peace on Earth, good will toward men. Maybe I do have the Christmas spirit after all.

For more of my rants, click
HERE.

December 17, 2008 - 1ST SETBACK

2008-12-17T06:48:00.000-08:00

I had my first minor setback today. I received a letter from my appointee for Junior Steward that he would be unable to serve in 2009. Fortunately, he bowed out before the installation of officers scheduled for January 3rd. I was able to find a fine young Brother to replace him and made all of the necessary changes to our records.

I guess what disturbs me though is the first candidate really bent my ear saying he wanted to get into line. Although he didn't attend Lodge frequently, he was quite adamant about serving as an officer. It's not often you have someone banging down your door to serve a position so I saw no problem in appointing him. In hindsight, it was the wrong decision. I should have selected the person who demonstrates his commitment to the Lodge, not just someone who bends my ear.

Interestingly, I should have learned this lesson last year as we had another Steward who adamantly wanted to get into a chair, was installed, and we never saw him again.

Don't get me wrong, both Brothers are nice guys, but I guess the lesson here is that "ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS."

December 15, 2008 - FESTIVUS

2008-12-15T08:35:00.000-08:00

My wife and I held a "Festivus" party this past Saturday, the purpose of which was to have a year-end holiday party. The name "Festivus" comes from TV's "Seinfeld", a nutty non-denominational holiday. I figured there were enough Christmas/Holiday parties going on, so I wanted something different (go figure).

Nonetheless, I invited friends, neighbors, and as many Masons from my Lodge as I knew. The party ran from 6:30pm, and the last group of people left about 1:00am. I had an open bar for libations, plenty of food, some games of chance for charity (a 50/50), holiday music, and of course the aluminum "Festivus" pole. Everyone had a great time. Alcohol was present, but nobody seemed to go away intoxicated. Yes, we gambled, but nobody seemed offended, especially since it benefited Masonic charity. In other words, all of the vices Masonic lodges seem to worry about never surfaced and it made a great social. To this day, I still do not understand the hangups Masons have with having a good time (but I'm sure there are some Masonic fuddy-duddies out there who could probably show me where it says in our governing docs that fun is not allowed).

In the end, it was a great party. Everybody kicked back, relaxed, shared some laughs and simply enjoyed each other's company. "Another Festivus Miracle!"

December 11, 2008 - PREPPING FOR THE NEW YEAR

2008-12-11T13:03:00.000-08:00

I went to Lodge last night to tend to paperwork. As I am the outgoing Secretary, I want to leave a clean desk for my successor. Among the things I did was to suspend ten Brothers for nonpayment of dues (as we voted on at our last Stated Communications of the year). I understand that people might lose interest in the fraternity, but I cannot understand why they would want to make their exit simply by not paying their dues. This, of course, is a blemish on their records and doesn't help their cause should they ever want to be reinstated. Instead, they should take a Dimit and be a Mason without a Lodge. This looks better on their record.

I also distributed a press release to the local papers regarding the charity work we have been involved with at Dunedin Elementary. This year we have devised a "Bikes for Books" program to encourage student reading. This was an idea based on similar programs implemented by Masonic Lodges in the western United States. To my knowledge, we are the first Lodge in Florida to implement such a program. Hopefully, the press release will generate some good public relations for the Lodge.

In preparation for the next Masonic year, I also did the following:

A. Prepared the name badges for the officers and sent it into a local company who manufactures such items.

B. Wrote my installation speech. Although I tried to be brief, I exhort Masons to be different; to think differently; to act differently; that the "status quo" simply won't hack it any longer. I'll post the speech here after the installation.

C. Firmed up plans for a "Snowbird Night" to be held Monday, February 16, 2009, at Dunedin Lodge beginning at 7:00pm. The purpose of Snowbird Night is to welcome our northern Brothers who have migrated to our area during winter. We will be holding a dinner at 6:00pm prior to the meeting. As to dress code, suit and tie is recommended, but "business casual" is acceptable (sorry, no T-shirts, shorts, jeans, or flip-flops).

I sent notices on this event throughout the Internet, including Guest Books and Discussion Groups in northern jurisdictions.

That's all for today.

Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http://www.dunedin192.org/
"For the Good of the Order"

December 10, 2008 - I'M ELECTED WM

2008-12-10T06:42:00.000-08:00

The purpose of this blog is to provide a record of my thoughts and activities as I become Worshipful Master of a Masonic Lodge for the second time. Hopefully, this will be useful for others to plan their year in the East. As a "second timer" I do not want to become complacent as some Masters have been who have been faced with this same situation. Instead, I hope to tackle the job with the same zeal and enthusiasm I had during my first term as Master.

Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M. is my mother Lodge where I was raised and served for a couple of years before moving to Sutherland Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M. which is closer to my home in Palm Harbor. Both Lodges operate under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Florida. While at Sutherland I progressed through the chairs as JD-SD-JW-SW-WM and served as Secretary for two years. Sutherland is a much smaller Lodge than Dunedin but I learned a lot about the Fraternity during my tenure there, including its politics. In 2006 I returned to Dunedin where I served as Secretary for the past two years.

Although we had a rather good year at Dunedin in 2008, both the Junior and Senior Wardens had to drop out of line, causing a problem in terms of who would succeed our outgoing Worshipful Master. At our last Stated Communications of the year held last Monday, December 8th, the Craft voted me to the East.

I was fortunate to have a Past Master, who I greatly respect, elected to the West and a young and bright Brother elected to the South. The Treasurer's post remained the same, and the Secretary's job was filled by another capable Past Master.

I wasted little time in appointing my Junior Officers and quickly formed committees. As Secretary I was fortunate to know just about everyone in the Lodge and the Craft appears ready to volunteer to help the Lodge. I sometimes believe sitting as a Secretary should be a prerequisite for becoming a Worshipful Master as you learn a lot about the actual operations of the Lodge.

Dunedin Lodge No. 192 was founded in 1916 in Dunedin, Florida (Tampa Bay area). It is a part of District 20 which includes seven Lodges, and Zone 6 which includes four districts (encompassing Tampa Bay). The Lodge is in pretty good shape financially, structurally, and in terms of membership (after years of slow decline, it appears we have bottomed out and we are back on the rise). I attribute this to a few reasons, good management by the Lodge, Masonic Education, and renewed interest in the fraternity by the public, thanks to books such as "The Da Vinci Code" and movies like "National Treasure." Currently we have over 200 members with several young men going through the degrees (about a dozen).

This is not to suggest Dunedin Lodge is perfect, but I think we are doing better than a lot of others in our area. The problems I will need to address this coming year is a young line of officers in need of training, and we need to invigorate Lodge meetings so they are both interesting and fun to attend thereby stimulating the Craft into action. It will be necessary for me to spend more time with the officers to point them in the right direction, and I have a few ideas for changing Lodge meetings.

Beyond that, there is something else that has weighed heavily on my mind lately, namely the deteriorating moral condition of this country. I realize a Masonic Lodge is not a religious institution, but we are supposed to be models of morality and examples to the community (remember our tenets as Master Masons). I have been pondering how we, as Masons, can promote morality, and I am not too sure I have the answer yet. But I am thinking of two possibilities: create a "Citizen of the Year" award, or; establish a "Citizenship" program whereby we recognize people for exhibiting good moral values. My thinking is that people tend to be recognized for immoral behavior, yet moral behavior is overlooked and taken for granted. In other words, I would like to recognize and thank those who practice decent moral values.

As to my management style as Master, you must remember I am a management consultant by profession. As such, I do not believe in micromanagement as I have seen other Worshipful Masters practice. Instead, I like to surround myself with the best people, delegate responsibility, and get out of their way. Because of this, I want to form true committees (not just people with a token title), charge them with their responsibilities, and turn them loose. Of course, I will run interference for them and assist them with any problems they might encounter, but I want to instill a sense of ownership in the Lodge by the Craft. To my way of thinking, viable committees also become the farm club for future Lodge officers. The more people who want to participate, the better as far as I am concerned.

As to meetings; first, we've changed our bylaws so that we have only one Stated Communications a month (the third Monday, beginning at 7:00pm). Dinner will precede these meetings. We will also have Festive Boards once a month off-site at a restaurant, which will be open to the public (including spouses and candidates for the fraternity). The purpose of these meetings will be to celebrate Freemasonry and I will invite guest speakers to talk about a variety of subjects and issues (nothing secret or proprietary of course). Recognizing the need for the Brothers to communicate in this day and age of the Personal Computer, I will be hosting a series of training courses on the use of the PC; e.g., basic use and housekeeping, word processing, Internet, graphics, spreadsheets, etc. These classes will be free and also open to the public (thereby raising awareness in our Lodge as well).

I am now preparing for the installation of Lodge officers which is scheduled for Saturday, January 3rd, 1:00pm at Dunedin Lodge. I am fortunate to have a fine team of Brothers to be my installing officers.

Finally, I have got a jump on the Lodge's "Trestleboard" newsletter and have produced the January/February issue, which you can find at:

http://www.dunedin192.org/dun0109.pdf

You can stay abreast of the activities at Dunedin Lodge by following our website at:

http:///www.dunedin192.org/

Okay, that's about it for now; this will be what this blog is all about, a running diary of my year in the East for the second time. I am sure I will make some mistakes along the way, but I will not fear to at least try and make a difference. Wish me luck.

If you have any questions or comments about my odyssey, please do not hesitate to post them here or send me an e-mail.

All the Best,
W:.Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.