October 2009 - Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia

The Official Publication of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of GeorgiaVolume No. 09 Issue 02 October 2009Darnell CrawfordSenior WardenJames C. Hudson, PMTreasurerJames Sheppard IIIWorshipful MasterCurtis LovetteJunior WardenEarl S. Perry, PMSecretary

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FeaturesTHIS ISSUEVolume 09 Issue 0 2Inside The Masonic DigestGrand Master Message……………..Words from the Editor…………..Knights of Pythagoras…………....…….Technology Department………The Spotlight………………….......Knights ofPythagorasSummer CampPage2009 Prince Hall DayRome, GAPagePythagoras Lodge No. 112008 Lodge of the YearPageFoundation Lodge No. 592Extending the CabletowDetroit, MIPage

THE MOST WORSHIPFUL PRINCE HALL GRAND LODGEFREE AND ACCEPTED MASONSJURISDICTION OF GEORGIAHONORABLE RAMSEY DAVIS, JR. GRAND MASTERGreetings Brothers and Sisters,Thanks to each of you for an excellent Grand Session in Savannah. Most of you pre-registered and thatallowed us to do a better job of planning. Words cannot express my gratitude to Deputy Hymes and hisDistrict for the very fine job of hosting our Grand Session. Let me suffice it by saying the bar has been sethigh for future Grand Sessions.Our Grand Session for 2010 will be held in Columbus. District Deputy Grand Master Grisson, andMembers of the Columbus District are busy getting ready. I have been told the best is yet to come, soyou want to be present in Columbus in 2010.Our Prince Hall Celebration will be held in Rome, Georgia this year and by now you should have receivedthat information. I understand the rooms are all but gone, but do not fret; there are several hotels in thearea and at a decent rate.To all Worshipful Masters, you run your lodge, so be careful who you give the gavel to.To all DDG Masters, you are in charge of your district and you are the representative of the GrandMaster. Most of you have done an outstanding job and for that I say thank you. By the same token a fewof you are not doing your job. In the very near future I will be replacing those deputies who are notcarrying out their duties.Brothers and Sisters please be advised that the ruling relative to balloting and the black ball has beenwithdrawn. We have seen a tremendous decrease in the black ball being dropped, and for that I saythank you. When balloting, let us all continue to do unto others as we would have others do unto us. Ithank Past Master Joe Snow and others who voiced their concern about this issue and the decision Imade relative to the black ball. Not all decisions are popular but most are necessary.To all Worshipful Masters and District Deputy Grand Masters, it has come to my attention that we are notadhering to our Masonic Dress Code. Yes, it is hot, but the weather does not dictate the dress for ourmeetings. The coat from a member’s dark suit may be removed during the summer or at the pleasure ofthe Worshipful Master. Otherwise the Masonic Dress Code must be adhered to.Finally my Brothers and my Sisters, other than God we are all that we have ; therefore, it behooves eachof us to help bring out the best in each other.Fraternally,Ramsey Davis, Jr., MWGM

Words From The EditorPerseverance, persistence, courage- these are anchors that we shouldcling to during the storms of life. Even in the worst storm have faith andbe steadfast, unmovable and always abounding, that you will find peacein your storm and peace creates the power that gives you courage andthe ability to persevere. Wilma LeRouxTyrone L. Hendry, PM (161)Editor - in- Chief“Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due seasonwe shall reap if we do not lose heart” (Galatians 6:9)My Brothers and Sisters, as always I would like to personallythank each of you for your continued support of the MasonicDigest. Being the Editor of the Masonic Digest has allowedme to really see what our Jurisdiction is truly about. OurJurisdiction is about Brothers and Sisters doing the best theycan for their respected communities and areas. Again, wehope you enjoy the latest issue of the Masonic Digest.Though your dedicated support we are able to show the worldour works and deeds as Masons and Eastern Stars. I am veryappreciative of the Brothers and Sisters who submitted theirarticles in a timely manner for publication. Without yourdedication there would not be a Masonic Digest.This issue of the Masonic Digest contains articles of interestsuch as the Knights of Pythagoras. I hope you will take thetime to look at the activities of the Knights of Pythagoras inthis issue. As a former Area Coordinator for the Knights ofPythagoras in my District, I know the hard work it takes tokeep the Knights Councils going. We should all applaud PastGrand Master Willie Williams, who is our State Director forthe Knights of Pythagoras and his KOP Staff members. Theymake the effort to educate and mentor our young men in thisJurisdiction. In my Lodge we had a former Sir Knight whobecame a Master Mason when he turned 21 years of age. Hismother still gives our Lodge members praises for the workand mentorship we did with her son at a early age.I know our Order of the Easter Star Chapter’s are also busywith their Youth Chapters in the Jurisdiction. Sister EddieLee Marsh and her Officers have done an outstanding job ofproviding the mentorship and guidance for the young ladiesin the various Youth Chapters in the Jurisdiction. At Districtfunctions on a local level in my area I see Gentle BreezeYouth Chapter of Claxton, GA and Shining Stars YouthChapter of Metter, GA doing various activities makingeveryone proud. Please keep working with our future leaders.I would like to congratulate Worshipful Master JamesSheppard III and the Officers and members of PythagorasLodge No. 11 in Savannah, GA for being awarded the 2008Lodge of the Year at Grand Session held in Savannah, GA.Please take the time to read about the many activities andprograms that the Lodge participated. It is my hope that otherLodges and Chapters will be inspired and follow the lead ofPythagoras Lodge No. 11. We must give back to ourcommunities. Masons and Eastern Stars are members of aService Organization. Please serve your local Churches,volunteer groups, youth organizations, and civic groups withthe zeal you serve Masonry.We as a Jurisdiction recently celebrated our Annual PrinceHall Day Weekend in Rome, Georgia on September 11 th -13 thof this year. I attended the Prince Hall Day activities and wasnot disappointed. DDGM Charlie Morrison and his DistrictOfficers and members left no stone unturned to make surethat the Jurisdiction members had a great time. Prince HallDay Weekend is a great time for members to take a break andjust fellowship as a Prince Hall Family. Remember thesaying “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” Ialways look forward to the many friends and family whotravel to our various destinations to meet once again eachyear at Prince Hall Day. If you have not ever had anopportunity to attend a Prince Hall Day Weekend pleasemake it your business to attend the next one. I can assure youthat the host District will go out of their way to see you enjoyyourself. I took several pictures in Rome, GA that I havedisplayed in this issue of the Masonic Digest. Thank youagain Dalton Masonic District No. 21 for making this year’sPrince Hall Day Weekend Celebration a memorable one.Again, the articles in the Masonic Digest are proof that we asMasons and Eastern Stars are making a difference within ourcommunities and areas. This issue of the Masonic Digestcontains articles about local food drives, back to school givea-ways,nursing home visitations, and various communityprojects. If your Lodge or Chapter has not received anyissues of the previous Masonic Digest please inform yourWorshipful Master or Worthy Matron and have them contactyour District Deputy Grand Master. If you still are unable toget your issues or articles published please send me an emailand I will check into the matter personally. You may sendyour request to editor@mwphglga.org ormasonicdigest@mwphglga.org Please allow 3-5 days toreceive a response.We are nearing another holiday season. I pray that eachmember and their family remain safe throughout theremaining year. If you have any ideas or suggestions for ourpublication please do not hesitate to contact me. The nextMasonic Digest publication deadline for submittingarticles is January 15, 2010. The next printed issue willbe distributed at Mid-Winter Meeting in Forsyth, GAFebruary 13, 2010.

Community Activities Around the JurisdictionCape Jessamine Chapter No. 86Back to School Give AwayOn Saturday July 18, 2009 the Sisters of Cape Jessamine Chapter No. 86O.E.S. with the assistance of the Brothers of John Wesley Lodge No. 161hosted a back to school give a way in Cone Homes Housing Community onHWY 80 in Statesboro, GA. The Chapter members and Lodge membersdonated paper, pencils, and other school supplies. The Chapter and Lodgemembers gave a talk about doing well in school and cooked hot dogs andplayed games with the children who came to receive school supplies.Brother Marcus Billups (l) and Worthy PatronAdrian Cunningham, Sr.(r)Sister Wyomia Timmons helpsat back to school give awayEureka Lodge No. 1Feed The HungryEvery Sunday for the last two years, Eureka Lodge No.1 has been a part of acommunity service project along side with Electa Chapter No. 1 O.E.S., SavannahChristian Church and Wilmington Island United Methodist Church at Forsyth Park.The project is called “Feed the Hunger”; located at Forsyth Park located in SavannahGa. The goal is just that, to feed the hunger. On an average, about 300 people are fed,from the homeless to families walking around the park; even those who are playingbasketball close 100ft away, or those who would rather throw a football in the openfields. No matter the case maybe, the lines are packed. Sometimes Eureka Lodge No.1 will provide the main course, sometimes just the water, a few times they have evenprovided the whole meal and asked for assistance in serving the food. All arewelcomed to help volunteer or donate to the cause.Brother Wilson (l) and Brother Wesby (r) withSister Jones of Electa Chapter No. 1Page 6

Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 15Greenbriar Childrens CenterAnnual Children’s Home CookoutOn Saturday, April 12, 2009, the Brothers of Mt. MoriahLodge No. 15 sponsored their annual Easter Egg Hunt andCookout for the Greenbiar Children’s Center. The Brothers ofMt. Moriah have organized their cookout over the last twentytwo years.Greenbriar Children's Center was established July 14, 1949 as anorphanage for African-American children in Savannah and surroundingareas. Prior to this time, black children who were homeless or withoutparental support were placed in local work farms and penal institutions.In the 1960's, Greenbriar opened its doors to children of all races anddiversified its services to meet changing needs. Mount Moriah has beena benefactor of Greenbriar since its doors opened by providing bothfinancial and manpower support.Green Mountain Lodge No. 130WM Rosco ByrdLodge Food DriveOn Thursday October 22, 2009 The Brothers ofGreen Mountain Lodge No. 130 of Sylvester,Georgia in Albany District No. 11 hosted a canfood drive. The Brothers donated food items tofamilies that were in the need of assistance.Page 7

Solomon P Lewis HRAMGrand East Consecration CeremonyConsecration Team ofSolomon P. Lewis Chapter HRAMOn September 13, 2008, after the historicalevent of the ribbon cutting ceremony of theNew Grand East, the Consecration Team ofSolomon P. Lewis Chapter HRAMperformed the Consecration Ceremony. Theconsecration ceremony places a spiritualbond of protection on the Building so that allwe do is to glorify the GATOU.Companion Willie Hopkins, Companion Stewart White, PHP Dannie Surry,Companion Michael Wimbush, Companion Java WhiteThe Grand Master called everyone’sattention to this ceremony which the teamproceeded to the altar by singing “Jesuskeep me near the Cross”. There was given aprayer of purification of the water followedby each member going to the four points ofthe room The High Priest went to each pointand consecrated it with oil and water, thenall members return to the altar for the finalblessing which ended by the High Priestdeclaring.“This Place is now Consecrated for MasonicLabors, in the Name of God.”Helpful Chapter No. 210Worthy Matron Mary RobinsonOn Sunday August 23, 2009 the Lovely Ladies of Helpful Chapter No. 210 Orderof the Eastern Star of Portal, GA celebrated their Chapter anniversary at ParrishGrove Missionary Baptist Church in Twin City, GA. It was a lovely service andthe Sisters put together a wonderful program that was enjoyed by family, friends,and guests. The theme of their Anniversary was "Showing Sisterly Love". Theguest speaker was The Grand Associate Matron-Sister Lynnette Hymes ofSavannah, Georgia. She did an outstanding job!Sister Keisha MercerMistress of CeremoniesSister Mary Robinson, Worthy Matron (standing)Grand Associate Matron Lynnette Hymes, Guest Speaker(sitting)Page 8

Martin Luther King Day ParadeJohn Wesley Lodge 161On Monday January 18, 2009 The Brothers of JohnWesley Lodge 161 with the assistance of the Sistersof Cape Jessamine Chapter No. 86 O.E.S.,participated in the 2009 Martin Luther King DayParade in Statesboro, GA. The Brothers and Sistersmarched in the “I have a Dream” Parade and gave outcandy to children along the parade route.Brothers l to r: Dionel De la Pointe, Louis Harper, WMTyrone Hendry, PM Adrain Cunningham, Sr., David ButtsAugusta Masonic District No. 2United We StandSisters l to r back row: Barbara Mills, AugustineWells, Karen Nunnally, Torrey Brack, Jade Royal.,Bottom row: Priscilla Mosley, LaKeisha Williams,Inga Paulk-JohnsonThe Brethren of the Augusta Masonic District No. 2 York RiteMasonic Houses in Augusta, Georgia unite under one commonbanner to service mankind. Worshipful Master Kevin Black ofNew Era No. 107, Norman C. Coleman Sr. E.C. Hiram ChapterNo. 15, Travis McNeal, Food Bank, Kirby L. Turner, P.T.I.M.Adoniram Council No. 2,Charles Francis III, E.C. Oscar C.McCombs Commandery No. 21 assist Barabara and Yasmin ofAugusta Safe homes in a community project. The Brothersdonated cell phones and eyeglasses.Page 9

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On September 11-13, 2009 The Prince Hall Family of the Jurisdiction of Georgia convened and celebrated The AnnualPrince Hall Weekend Celebration in Rome, GA hosted by Dalton Masonic District No. 21. DDGM Charlie Morrisonalong with the Lodges and Chapters of Dalton Masonic District No. 21 were perfect hosts as the Jurisdiction traveled thehighways and byways of North Georgia. The District provided the Jurisdiction members with activities such as fishingand numerous social functions throughout the weekend.Page 11

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What is the purpose of the Knights of Pythagoras?The purpose is to provide beneficial use of time, worthwhile companions, wholesomeeducational environments, and a program aiming to interest and aid youth in their allarounddevelopment.Project Knighthoodto BrotherhoodA Mentoring ProgramA KNIGHT SERVES GODA KNIGHT HONORS ALL WOMANHOODA KNIGHT LOVES AND HONORS HIS PARENTSA KNIGHT IS HONESTA KNIGHT IS LOYAL TO IDEAS AND FRIENDSA KNIGHT PRACTICES HONEST TOILA KNIGHT'S WORD IS AS GOOD AS HIS BONDA KNIGHT IS COURTEOUSA KNIGHT IS AT ALL TIMES A GENTLEMANA KNIGHT IS A PATRIOT IN PEACE AS WELL AS WARA KNIGHT IS CLEAN IN MIND AND BODYA KNIGHT STANDS UNSERVINGLY FOR PUBLIC SCHOOLSA KNIGHT ALWAYS BEARS THE REPUTATION OFA GOOD AND LAW ABIDING CITIZENA KNIGHT BY PERCEPTION AND EXAMPLE MUST PRESERVETHE HIGH STANDARDS TO WHICH HE HAS PLEDGED HIMSELFWillie Williams, PGMState Director KOP“No Man Stands So Straight AsWhen He Stoops To Help A Boy”Project Knighthood to Brotherhood is amentoring program which demonstratesits effectiveness in training Knights tobecome men in today's world. Knights8-20 years of age are taught the values,habits, attitudes and skills of manhood.Knights will be taught peer resistanceand other skills to preventdysfunctional behavior such asviolence, drug addiction, and premartialsex.The Brotherhood should provideKnights with problem-solvingcounseling and ensure that their variousneeds get met through communityresources.Youth Knights are helped towardscareer maturity and are taught todevelop Business Administration skillswhich will allow them to be successfulin the global society.Brothers should be prepared to pourtheir hearts out into Knighthood.The Councils and Lodges should worktogether with the Brothers sharing theirwisdom and knowledge with theirKnights.Let our Knights fulfill their dreams inthis mentoring program by completingtheir education and defeating crime anddrugs in our communities.We as "Brothers" should be there nomatter what. Remember when we wereyoung men how someone took timewith us.Page 13

On July 17-19, 2009 The Georgia Council of the Knights of Pythagoras Jurisdiction of Georgia held its Annual Youth Camp atFort Valley State University in Fort Valley Georgia. Brothers and Mentors came to assist Past Grand Master Willie Williamswho currently serves as State Director of The Knights of Pythagoras. The councils enjoyed many activities during the summercamp session including horseback riding, basketball camps, talks and discussions by the mentors of the program. Grand MasterRamsey Davis, Jr also stopped in to visit the youth councils and offer words of encouragement.Page 14

Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia7340 Old National Hwy.Riverdale, GA 30349What Are We Becoming?From The Desk of Bruce JamesRight Worshipful Grand Senior WardenThe decision by the Imperial Potentate and others todisassociate themselves from Prince Hall Masonryis like saying: there will be no hotdogs at a baseballgame; no tailgating at a football game; no popcornat a basketball game; no dancing at the ball; noburn-outs at a drag race, no prayer at church andMasons can’t be Shriners. What in the heck are ourso called leaders thinking about? Has some of themlost their mind or is it just me? Is this the WillieLynch Theory at its best? I guess all of the fightinglegal battles, demonstrations, protest and debates tobecome Prince Hall Masons and Shiners can now bethrown out the door. The bottom-line, it is outrightstupid, asinine, crazy and ludicrous to even think orsuggest such.Every since I was thirteen years old I wanted tobecome a Mason and Shriner, mainly because ofwho they were and what they stood for in thecommunity. My life dream to become a Masoncame true in June 1982. Every since that day I havebeen a proud, enthusiastic, motivated, committedand traveling Prince Hall Mason. However, as aproud Prince Hall Mason I thought I would neversee the day when “Black Fraternal Brothers”Masons and Shiners would part because ofsovereignty, membership and selfish, arrogantbehavior. I think it’s an outright damn shame thatthe premier Black Fraternal organization known asPrince Hall Masons and Shiners would stoop so lowas to jeopardize our mere existence; not to mentionflush down the drain all of the hard work ourforefathers and mothers endured to make PrinceHall Masonry what it is today. It’s even moresickening and disgusting to know that “we” havegotten so educated, selfish, narrow-minded, hatefuland vindictive that “we” can’t get along with oneanother. What makes things even worst is, “weeducated beyond our intelligence Black Men” areseeking, requesting, asking and begging our WhiteBrothers to accept and recognize us as Brothers. Thedecision to part from the Prince Hall Family is aVERY GOOD reason why they shouldn’t recognizeus. Hell, we don’t even recognize, respect andaccept ourselves.To part and go our separate ways sends a very badmessage to our young men not to mention to theworld; and it will surely affect the growth anddevelopment of both organizations. Matter of fact,we are surely to become the laughing stock of allFraternal Orders. But what’s worst of all, we PrinceHall Masons and Shriners are quick to scrutinize,point fingers and disassociate ourselves withInternational, Modern & Free Masons and other socall bogus Lodges. Give me a break!Finally, it has taken two hundred plus years for aBlack Man to become President of the United Statesof America and here we are two hundred plus yearsafter the discovery of Prince Hall Freemasonry andwe are seemingly closing the Volume of ScaredLaw and turning the Compass and Squarebackwards.Thank God the Conference of Grand Masters hasnot stooped or reverted to the same level ofmentality by saying Masons cannot or should not beShriners.Page 15

Brother Charles Wilkins(l)Brother Larry Clark (r)Truthful Lodge No. 375Valentine’s Day BallOn Saturday February 14, 2009 The Brothers ofTruthful Lodge No. 375 in Portal, GA hosted aValentine Ball at the National Guard Armory inStatesboro, Georgia. The Lodge was assisted bythe Sisters of Helpful Chapter No. 210 of Portal,GA. Brothers and Sisters from the District attendedthe Ball along with other family and friends.Brother Sam Jones (375)Brother Larry Bing (l)Brother Chris Fortson (r)WM Que Mercer ,Truthful Lodge 375 (r)WM Tyrone Hendry, John Wesley Lodge 161 (l)Page 16

Marilyn Moore°Grand Worthy Matron, O.E.S.Grand Worthy Matron Marilyn Moore is a native of Treutlen County (Soperton) Georgia. She isthe second Child and older daughter of five surviving children born to the parentage of BrotherJohn E. and Sister Shadie M. Edmond-Moore. She is a Graduate of: Treutlen High School,Soperton, GA; Fort Valley State (College) University, The Ohio State University and TheUniversity of Georgia. She is currently employed by the Dublin City Schools as a Teacher ofFamily and Consumer Sciences, Grades (9-12) at Dublin High School. Her ProfessionalOrganizations include : National/Georgia Association of Educators; National /GeorgiaAssociation of Career, Technology and Agriculture Education;; GA Association of Family andConsumer Sciences Education. Civic Organizations: Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, Inc. andChartered Member of Tau Omicron Omega Chapter, Dublin, Georgia; Dublin/Laurens CountyBranch of NAACP.Fraternal Order: Fidelity Chapter No. 45, PM; Dublin District No. 19, PDWM; RHAB CourtNo. 1 Heroines of Jericho, Macon, GA, PMAM; MASAB Court No. 178, Daughter of Isis,Macon, GA; Lillie B Roberts Assembly Order of the Golden Circle, LLRChurch Affiliation: A loyal, faithful and staunch member of Valdosta Missionary BaptistChurch, East Dublin, GA. Serves as Financial Secretary, Missionary Ministry President,member of the Constitution/Bylaws and Hospitality Committees; and in any capacity that shemight be called upon to serve cheerfully. Marilyn as she is affectionately known among herpeers, as a sister and person who is a friend to humankind. Marilyn enjoys serving and helpingothers with a cheerful smile and a kind touch. She believes in sharing her smile or giving youher smile if you’re without one. She is a believer of the scriptures and one in particular, “Let allthings be done decently and in order. . . and in Love.” More importantly, Marilyn believes thatall things can be done through Christ who strengthened us and that God shall supply all of ourneeds according to His in glory by Christ Jesus.Marilyn is endeavoring to move this order to the next level with the aid of her most efficientpowerhouse of a T.E.A.M. (Together Everyone Attains More).Ramsey Davis, Jr. , 33°Most Worshipful Grand MasterRamsey Davis, Jr., 33º, is a native of Brewton, AL where he attended and graduated from the localschools. In 1971, Grand Master Davis graduated from Tuskegee Institute, which is now known asTuskegee University in Tuskegee, Alabama. He graduated with a BS in Economics and PoliticalScience. In 1977, Grand Master Davis earned his Doctorate of Jurist Prudence from Woodrow WilsonCollege of Law in Atlanta, GA. Currently he is the owner and principal broker of Ramsey Davis, Jr.,Realty and Insurance Agency with over 34 years of experience.Grand Master Davis is a member of Ruth Chapter No. 102, O.E.S., Past Master of W.C. Thomas LodgeNo. 112 , Past Commander in Chief of Atlanta Consistory No. 24, Past Commander of the House ofKadosh, Past Lecturer of Nabbar Temple No. 128, Past President of the Peach State Commanders of theRite, and Past Master of Ceremony for the Georgia Council of Deliberation. He has also served as RightWorshipful Deputy Grand Master, and Right Worshipful Grand Senior Warden. Currently he serves asThe Most Worshipful Grand Master for the Jurisdiction of Georgia.Grand Master Davis is a Life Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. as well as a life member ofThe Georgia Council of PTAs. Hi is past president of the Atlanta Tuskegee Alumni Club, serves on theBoard of Young Financial Services, and the Board of Hotlanta Sports and Autos Association.Grand Master Davis is married to the former Cathy Green and they are the proud parents of four childrenand four grandchildren. Grand Master Davis and Sister Cathy are members of Jackson Memorial BaptistChurch, where he sings in the male choir. Grand Master Davis is a man who loves and fears the Lord,and is desirous of being a friend to all mankind.Page 17

Eva J. Moore Assembly 348Annual Seasonal TeaOn Sunday August 18, 2009 the beautiful ladies of Eva Moore Assembly, Order ofthe Golden Circle, in Statesboro Masonic District No. 18 hosted its annual seasonaltea. The ladies gave a wonderful and detailed meaning of the 4 seasons of Winter,Spring, Summer, and Fall. Loyal Lady Ruler Lennie Lee and her Assembly Officerswere perfect hosts. The Mistress of Ceremonies was Past Loyal Lady Ruler DorothyRobinson. The Commander in Chief of Statesboro Consistory No. 348, Harold Jonesand the Sublime Princes also participated in the program.Loyal Lady RulerLennie LeeHarold Jones, 32°Commander in ChiefStatesboro ConsistoryDorothy RobinsonPast Loyal Lady RulerMistress of CeremoniesW.C. CooperArea CoordinatorPage 18

Truthful Lodge No. 375WM Que MercerOn August 14, 2009 the Brothers of Truthful Lodge No. 375 and Sisters ofHelpful Chapter No. 210 out of Portal, GA participated in the August Fair atWestwood Nursing Center in Statesboro, GA. The Brothers and Sisters helpedthe residents with different activities' such as a Basketball Ball shooting,Watermelon eating, and fishing for Ducks contest. More important, the Lodgemembers took the time just to sit and talk with some of the residents in thecenter. Seeing the smiles on their faces was the best JOY!!!Also, The Lodge visited with one its very own brothers, a GoldCard member, Bro. Thomas Moore. Bro. Moore is a resident of WestwoodNursing Center. The Lodge presented Bro. Moore with one of their polo styleTruthful Lodge shirts.Worshipful Master Que Mercer (l) and theBrothers of Truthful Lodge No. 375Page 19

John Wesley Lodge No. 161Relay For LifeCape Jessamine Chapter No. 86 O.E.S.Statesboro, Georgia - On Friday April 17, 2009 The Brothers of John Wesley LodgeNo. 161 participated in the Relay for Life Cancer Walk hosted by the Bulloch CountyChapter of the American Cancer Society. The Brothers along with the Sisters of CapeJessamine Chapter No. 86 O.E.S. walked over 20 laps in memory of cancer victims andsurvivors and their families. The Lodge also set-up a both with other organizations andhanded out materials on cancer research and out reach groups. The event lasted from7pm until 7am with several thousand participants in Bulloch County showing theirsupport for this worthy cause.WM Hendry& PM Louis Harper walkfor Cancer Survivors and victimsGreensboro Lodge No. 223Worshipful Master Johnny KilpatrickBack To School BashGreensboro Lodge No. 223 where Johnny R. Kilpatrick is theWorshipful Master along with Greensboro Chapter No. 345treated the children of Greensboro, Georgia to a cookout andschool supplies for the beginning of the 2009 school year.Page 20

Foundation Lodge No. 592Worshipful Master Tony T RussellExtending The Cabletow to Detroit, MichiganDuring the weekend of May 28 th through May 31 st 2009, the members of FoundationLodge No. 592, PHA, located in Smyrna, GA, where Brother Tony T. Russell serves asthe Worshipful Master, had the distinct pleasure of hosting a delegation of brothers fromour jurisdiction to include Grand Master Ramsey Davis, Jr. as we convened in Detroit,MI. The Brothers traveled to Michigan to fellowship with the members of Famabiff LodgeNo. 33, PHA, and bear witness to the third degree. At the conclusion of the degreework, the gavel of authority was presented to Grand Master Davis who gave commentsand spoke on behalf of the MWPHGL of Georgia. The weekend was filled withhospitality and site seeing while in Detroit. The brothers and their families visited thelocal casinos, Canada, Hitsville U.S.A. aka Motown Records, and other historical sites.Over the years, the members of Foundation Lodge have madeit a goal to travel across jurisdictional boundaries by“Extending The Cabletow” and building a strong PHAmilynetwork as we travel. This was the third time that themembers of the Michigan and Georgia jurisdictions havefellowshipped in this capacity. As great as the Michiganbrothers’ visitation to Atlanta in 2008 was, 2009’s visitation bythe members of Georgia was truly a historic event. For thosewho were not there, you missed a great one! The MostWorshipful Grand Master of Michigan, Clarence Round, Jr,was in attendance as well as other Past Grand Masters fromthe jurisdiction, brothers from the Grand Lodge of Michiganwere also in attendance along with the more than 35 brothersthat traveled from Georgia, The lodges that representedGeorgia on this trip were , H. R. Butler Lodge No. 23, EdenLodge No. 42, Carrollton Lodge No. 56 , W.C. Thomas LodgeNo. 112, Zion Hill Lodge No. 26, Newnan Lodge No. 299, X. L.Neal Lodge No. 588, Foundation Lodge No. 592, and SquareWork Lodge No. 596. These lodges are members of AtlantaDistrict No. 3 and La Grange District No. 15Page 21

John Wesley Lodge No. 16135 Year Gold Card MembershipGold Card MembershipOn Thursday April 02, 2009 The Brothers of JohnWesley Lodge 161 presented 35-year Gold cards andcertificates from the Most Worshipful Prince Hall GrandLodge of Georgia to the following Brothers: PM ThomasEllis, Jr. 35 years of service, Brother William Hendley,36 years of service, Brother Ernest Thompson, 36 yrsservice, and Brother Lee Johnson 35 years of service.Past Master Thomas Ellis, Jr receives his 35-yearMembership Gold CardThe Gold Cards and Certificates were presented byWorshipful Master Tyrone L. Hendry and Senior WardenMoncello Stewart, District Deputy Grand MasterWilliam George, Jr. (r) and Assistant District DeputyLouis Harper.(l) The Lodge thanked these dedicatedBrothers for their continued service and support of theLodge and Grand Lodge. Congratulations to theseworthy Brothers.Brother Ernest Thompson receives his 35-yrMembership Gold CardBrother William Hendley receives his 35-yrMembership Gold CardTruthful Lodge No. 375Portal High School PicnicThe brothers of Truthful Lodge No. 375 of Portal, Ga.sponsored a senior class cookout on May 29, 2009 forPortal High School in Portal, Georgia. BrothersChristopher Fortson and Elrico Rackard prepared thefood as Lodge members enjoyed fellowshipping withthe graduating class of Portal High School.Page 22

My Brothers and Sisters please welcome a new edition to theMasonic Digest pages. The Editors Picks has been created toshow and display many of the Jurisdictions photos that I havecollected and may not have had accompanying articles. Ibelieve this is a way to showcase some of the wonderful eventsthat our Lodges and Chapters have participated as well as showour various Lodge and Chapter members in the Prince HallJurisdiction of Georgia EditorTyrone L. HendryEditor in ChiefMasonic DigestAmericus District No. 14District MeetingAlbany Masonic District No. 11Truthful Lodge No. 375Portal, GAPage 23

Caribe Tradewinds Lodge No. 589Virgin IslandsCape Jasmine Chapter No. 86Statesboro, GAEsther R Walters Assembly No. 24Atlanta, GAJ. H. Walker Lodge No. 55Macon, GAMagnolia Chapter No. 411Albany, GAPage 24

The Sisters of Mary McLeod Bethune ChapterNo. 468 and the Mitchell-Way Youth Groupraised over $200.00 dollars of donations for theBreast Cancer Foundation. The Chaptermembers also participated in the Breast CancerAwareness Walk in downtown Augusta inOctober 2009.Worthy Matron Renita Detwyler, Sis. ShannonBryant and Sis. Bonnie Howard are standing withmembers of the Mitchell-Way youth group inwhich Jamelda Campbell is the Youth Director.Mary McLeod Bethune Chapter No. 468Worthy Matron Renita DetwylerOn Sunday July 12, 2009 the Sistersof Cape Jessamine Chapter No. 86hosted its Annual Esther DayProgram at 4:00 PM in Statesboro,GA at Greater Bethel A.M.E.Church. The Mistress of Ceremonieswas Sister Barbara Mills and did adynamic job. The guest minister ofthe evening was Minister TeresaBishop of Statesboro, GA. SisterInga Paulk-Johnson was lovely asshe represented Queen Esther for theprogram. Worthy Matron AugustineWells and her Officers providedrefreshments to all guest from theDistrict, family and friends.Cape Jessamine Chapter No. 86Worthy Matron Augustine WellsSister Augustine WellsWorthy MatronSister Barbara MillsTeresa BishopGuest MinisterBrother Adrain Cunningham, Sr.Worthy PatronSister Inga Paulk-Johnson2009 Queen EstherPage 25

PM Michael DelgadoGrand CCFCEach year at about this time, most Masonic organizations engage in the traditional and time-honored process called “theelection of officers for the ensuing year.” This is normally a serious . time when men gather to decide who shall lead themfor the next twelve months (usually the normal tenure of office).However, each year we find that in many of our lodges, chapters, consistories and temples, there arises the ugly elementof manipulation in the otherwise democratic process of election. Each year there are those unscrupulous members whohave not attended a single meeting throughout the year, and who will decide to come on election night to vote their “manor men” into office.There is something inherently wrong and un-Masonic with this practice! Unfortunately, however, there is absolutelynothing illegal about it. There is no law, written or unwritten, that I know of, that can deprive a member in good standingof the right to vote at any time, more especially at an Annual Meeting.While there may be some Masonic jurisdictions that will deny members the right to run for elective offices, who have notattended a pre-requisite number of meetings throughout the year, yet the right of these members to vote is protected byMasonic jurisprudence.I must confess that there are times like this when I wish we could simply bar such members from voting at all, but legallywe can’t.Perhaps one day we will come to the realization that allowing members of our venerable Order to manipulate our electionprocesses by giving them voting privileges when they have not earned them by regular attendance, shall have to be dealtwith by the enactment of strict Masonic laws disallowing their right to vote. Until that happens, we shall continue tosuffer the ill practices of brethren who do not mean well.Greensboro Chapter No. 345Habitat For HumanityHabitat for Humanity is an international, ecumenical Christian, non-governmental, non-profit organization devotedto building "simple, decent, and affordable" housing. Homes are built using volunteer labor and are sold at no profit.The organization was founded in 1976 in Americus, Georgia, by Millard and Linda Fuller. The Sisters of GreensboroChapter No. 345 O.E.S. prepared lunch for the workers building the Habitat Houses for residents of Greene CountyPage 26

Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia7340 Old National Hwy.Riverdale, GA 30349Brothers,The 2010 is among us and we’ve made great strides toward promoting ourlodges and district on the world wide web. Congratulations to BrunswickDistrict No. 7 for being the first district to have a functional and workingwebsite in the jurisdiction. I encourage all others to follow their lead inpromoting your district events.If your lodge or district needs assistance in establishing a web presence,please to not hesitate to contact me, so I can work with you in getting webpresence for your lodge or district. Our goal by Grand Session is to have asmany lodges and district on line. So brothers your help is really needed tomake this a reality!Corey Shackleford, Sr.Grand Director of Information TechnologyNabbar Temple No. 128Robert Mathis, Illustrious PotentateOn May 9, 2009 the Nobles of Newnan Shrine Club under theauspices of Nabbar Temple No. 128 visited Avalon Health andRehabilitation on Mothers Day. The Nobility broughtgreetings and well wishes to the local Nursing Home inNewnan and distributed diabetic socks to the residents thatwere in need of them. Fruit baskets and other items were givento the residents. The Nobles provided fruit baskets and wellwishes to the staff at Avalon Health and Rehabilitation Centerwho are Mothers as they attended to the residents on a dailybasis while away from their families.Nobles pictured from L to R: Recorder: Noble Dwight Hartage,Noble Jamal Pearce, Vice Presdent: Noble Dannie Surry, Sr.,President: Noble Corey D. Shackleford, Sr., Treasurer: Noble LarrySatterwhite, Sr., Noble Jermaine Maddox, Noble Andrew Williams,and Noble Jimmy Dukes.Nobles pictured from L to R: Noble Recorder: DwightHartage, Vice President: Noble Dannie Surry, Sr., andPresident: Noble Corey Shackleford, Sr.Page 27

Hourglass Lodge No. 113Worshipful Master Edwin ThompsonOn Saturday July 18, 2009 The Brothers of Hourglass Lodge No. 113 and the Sisters ofLaurel Growth Chapter No. 118 O.E.S. hosted an All White Affair in Hinesville, GA atthe American Legion Hall. The Brothers and Sisters donned their finest white dress attireand danced the night away in brotherly and sisterly love. Many members throughout theJurisdiction came for an extraordinary evening.PM Edward RussellSister Vashti G PullenPast Grand WorthyMatron (l) with Sister Inga Paulk-Johnson (86)Pam Porter, PWM (118)District Worthy MatronPage 28

John Wesley Lodge No. 161Worshipful Master Tyrone HendryOn Saturday March 28, 2009 The Brothers of John WesleyLodge No. 161 in Statesboro, GA hosted a Spring AffairSocial at the Quality Inn Suites Ballroom. The event washeld to welcome in the springtime festivities of the New Yearand have a little fun. Members of the Prince Hall Familycame to socialize from Atlanta, Hinesville, Pembroke andSavannah, Georgia and the Great State of Alabama and fromGermany.Sister Karen Nunnally, PWMAssistant District Deputy Louis HarperCollecting tickets at the doorLaurel Growth Chapter No. 118 visiting membersOfficers of John Wesley Lodge No. 161Mario Primas, JW (l) Tyrone L. Hendry WM(c), Dionel De La Poninte,SS (r)Sister Ash Mingle (86)“The Soul Train Line” in the Boro29

Dublin Masonic District No. 19District Awards BanquetRoger L. Smith, ADDGMJoe Coates, DDGMMarilyn Moore, GWM (l)Corretta Green, Worthy MatronFidelity Chapter No. 45Sister Margaret Anderson, PM (45)Receives Certificate of AppreciationDublin Masonic District No. 19Past Mater DegreeDDGM Joe Coates along with his Officers in Dublin MasonicDistrict No. 19 conferred the Past Masters Degree on thenewly elected Worshipful Masters in the District. Picturedfrom left to right sitting areVincent Smith Calvin McCarthy Lodge No. 310 Irwinton, GARaymond McNeil Jeremiah Lodge No. 182 Cochran, GAPatrick Waters Landmark Lodge 64, Dublin , GA30

William George, Jr.District Deputy Grand Master (401)Statesboro Masonic District No. 182009 St. John’s DayOn Sunday June 28, 2009 Statesboro Masonic District No. 18hosted its 2009 St. John's Day Program at Greater BethelA.M.E. Church in Statesboro, GA at 4:00 PM. The guestspeaker for the event was Pastor Leon Smith of Greater BethelA.M.E. Church in Statesboro, Georgia. Brother MoncelloStewart the Senior Warden of John Wesley Lodge No. 161served as Master of Ceremonies. Deputy Grand MasterDouglas Jones of Truthful Lodge No. 375 brought messagesof greetings from the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia.The O.E.S. Sisters of Statesboro Masonic District No. 18came out in a sea of white to support the Brothers for the St.John’s Program.Sister Mabel JonesDistrict Worthy Matron (269)Pastor Leon SmithGuest SpeakerBrother Moncello Stewart (161)Master of CeremonyAnthony GreenWorshipful Master (401)Douglas Jones (375)Deputy Grand Master MWPHGL of GA31

THE SPOTLIGHTPYTHOGRAS LODGE NO. 11Under the leadership of Worshipful Master JamesSheppard who has truly displayed his unique leadershipduring the 2008 year while maintaining peace andbrotherly love throughout the Lodge, Pythagorasorganized the efforts of donating over 1000 lbs ofcanned goods to the Ronald McDonald house located inthe rear of Memorial Hospital in Savannah, Georgia.The month of February was dedicated to the Brothers contactingthe Widows on Valentines Day to let them know that they werestill special in all of our lives. Worshipful Master Sheppard hasspearheaded the efforts of reminding the brothers that we have aresponsibility to the Widows, orphans, and the community.In March Pythagoras Lodge No. 11 was recognized by the City ifSavannah as being the first Fraternal Organization to officiallypartner with the City in their Operation Clean sweep which reachesout to urban and common areas in the act of beautifying “our sidesof town”. WM Sheppard was inspirational in organizing thisrelationship with the leaders of the City of Savannah.Pythagoras Lodge No. 11 along with the Red Cross held its annualblood drive which gathers over 30 pints of blood which has beenused to save over 210 lives. Pythagoras donated back to schoolitems to all those in attendance at the Woodville Communityback-to-school event where over forty book-bags were given out.Pythagoras sponsored the Risers Academy program by donatingthe funds needed to the organization for securing a bus to visit theMLK Memorial in Atlanta during its 139 th anniversary.Pythagoras Lodge No. 11 received the 2008 Lodge of the Year for theRegion awarded by the MWPHGLGA at the 2009 Grand Session inSavannah, Georgia. The remaining activities are yearly functions that will becompleted by the brothers during the holiday months; a Christmas DonationGreen briar Children Home, Feeding the homeless at The Salvation Army,Hosting a brown bagging event for the 2 nd Harvest Food Bank While donatingcanned goods for the event, adopting residents at the Riverview NursingHome, and last but not least the gift cards for the Widows. These were takenon by Worshipful Master Sheppard early in his Masonic career and have sincegrown to a tradition of Pythagoras.32

Omar Temple No. 21Thomas Jackson, Illustrious PotentateSpecial OlympicsGeorgia Masters BowlingOasis of Savannah, Georgia-On July 18 th and 19 th ,2009 Omar Temple No. 21 welcomed nearly 900athletes from all over Georgia to Savannah to competeto be the best bowler in the Special Olympics Georgia(SOGA) Masters Bowling. The games where held atAMF Victory Lanes and AMF Savannah Lanes. OmarTemple No. 21 assisted athletes with bowling andscorekeeping. Omar 21 officiated the award ceremonyby announcing the winners and presenting them withtheir Olympic medals.Special Olympics Georgia (SOGA)provides year-round sports training andathletic competition in a variety ofOlympic-type sports for nearly 23,000children and adults with intellectualdisabilities, giving them continuingopportunities to develop physical fitness,demonstrate courage, experience joy, andparticipate in the sharing of gifts, skills,and friendships with their families, otherSpecial Olympic athletes and thecommunity. This was the third year thatSOGA has brought Masters Bowling toSavannah. Omar Temple No. 21 hasparticipated each year.33

NOMINATION FORM FORLODGE OF THE YEARMost Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of GeorgiaHonorable Ramsey Davis, Jr., Most Worshipful Grand Master(PLEASE TYPE or PRINT)Lodge Name & Number______________________________Address:______________________________City, State & Zip:_____________________________Worshipful Master Name:______________________________Senior Warden Name:______________________________Junior Warden Name:______________________________Date Lodge was Established/Chartered:____________________________________SOCIAL INFORMATION:INTERNAL USE ONLY:Date Received:NOMINATOR:Nominators Name:______________________________Address:_____________________________City, State & Zip:_____________________________Nominators Lodge Name & Number:______________________________Address:_____________________________City, State & Zip:_____________________________Telephone Number:_____________________________Signature ___________________________________ Date: ______________________All Applications must be submitted to Bruce James, Grand Senior Warden and CommitteeAPPLICATION DEADLINE: Postmarked May 31, 2010CRITERIA FORLODGE OF THE YEAR1. Must be viable and visible within the community.a) List all community activities (i.e., church visitation, Meals on Wheels, etc.)2. Must have provided assistance and/or aid (Finance) to Charity (i.e., Meals on Wheels, Senior Citizens, Hospital, Youth Groups,Schools, Homeless, Habitat for Humanity, etc.)3. Must have held or provided Voter Registration Drives, Free Ride to the Pools and/or Voter Education.4. Must provide a photograph album containing pictures labeled with location, date and time of events.5. Must provide some form of financial assistance (aid, scholarship) to a student who is pursuing higher education.6. (Must actively and financially support the goals and objectives of the District.7. Must have a Chapter of Knights of Pythagoras or show reasonable cause why one has not been established.8. Must file and remit payment for ALL Dues and Assessments (Building Endowment Fund inclusive) in a timely manner to theGrand Lodge.9. Must have had representation at the previous and present Grand Communication.Base on the criteria given above, please use a separate sheet to explain why you feel the nominee should be recognized as Lodge ofthe Year. (Be very detailed and specific in your explanation. Use additional paper for documentation.)34

2010 Grand SessionColumbus, GAJune 15th – 18 THMasonic Digest GuidelinesDistrict Deputy Grand Masters are responsible for getting information pertaining to their District tothe Masonic Digest Editors. It is recommended that District Deputies appoint a brother or sisterfrom the District to assist them with article submissions and content, but the responsibility forDistrict articles being submitted rest entirely with the District Deputy Grandmaster.Each District is expected to submit articles, news releases, stories for every issue of the MasonicDigest. The Masonic Digest Editor assigned to your District will only contact the District Deputyinitially once a quarter about submissions via email or certified letter. It will be the responsibility ofthe District Deputy or the person appointed by the Deputy to contact the assigned editor for futurearticles during the quarter for all District Activities and Events.All Deadlines will be strictly enforced.It is encouraged that the various Masonic Houses and Shrine Temples and Courts submit articles forpublication in the Masonic Digest if articles are newsworthy.All submissions are subject to screening and approval of the Editors and the Grand Master reservesa right to reject or not publish any and all submissions. A written letter will be sent with all rejectedarticles and materials. If your individual Lodge or Chapter would like to submit an article pleasesubmit articles in a word document via email to masonicdigest@mwphglga.org oreditor@masonicdigest.org . You may also mail articles toEditor in ChiefMasonic Digest1620 Rebekah RoadStatesboro, GA 3045835