Friday Dec. 4, 2009
- 9:30 AM - The Grand Master is talking on how Masonry is "Growing" in Texas.
- 9:54 AM - The Grand Treasurer reports that many Lodges have not completed the Form 990 (IRS Form for our Lodges). The Lodges "Need to call Doris if you need help." The number to call Doris is (254) 753-7395.
- 10:15 AM - The Grand Lodge Temple Committee Reports repairs are needed but money is needed as well to cover the repairs. In 2010 there is only $100,000 left and water leaks need to be repaired along with a shifty building.
- 10:25 AM - The Temple Committe just asked for "Ideas" on how to raise money or donations for the repairs.
- 10:33 AM - The Grand Lodge just reported they will match up to $500 for a scholarship. Details to follow.
- 10:37 AM - The above was reported by PGM Tommy Griffin. This will be apart of the TX Masonic Charity Program. Each Local Lodge will have to send the application of the recipiant and the Lodge's $500 to the commitee. For more details contact the Texas Masonic Charity.
- 10:55 AM - Resolutions 9, 10, and 15 have been withdrawn.
The Resolutions are as follows:
9. Amend Art. 397 so that only the King James Version of the Holy Bible may be placed upon the Altar during the conferral of degrees. (Thornton Lodge #486)
10. Amends Art. 6a to allow Statements of Availability to contain a record of other related Masonic activities and a recitation pertaining to family, business or profession, civic activities and military service. (W. Vernon Burke)
15. Amend Art. 318a to permit an Endowed Member to add to the value of his endowment in increments of $100 or multiples thereof. (W. Vernon Burke)
- 11:20 AM - Resolution 1 (Failed) Resolution 2 (Withdrawn)
The Resolutions are as follows:
1. Amend Arts. 218 & 219 so that bylaw changes are to be filed with GL by October 1 and not require changes to a Lodge's By-Laws approved by a previous Committee on By-Laws. (Louis Stephens).
2. Adds to Art. 225a to recognize the National Association of Masonic Scouters. (Rex Lewis)
- 11:25 AM - Resolution 3 (Passed)
The Resolution is as follows:
3. Adds to Art. 225a to recognize the National Association of Masonic Scouters. (PGM Brian R. Dodson).
- 11:32 AM - Resolution 4 (Passed)
The Resolution is as follows:
4. Amend Form 23a to permit Past Presidents to be regular members of a Masters, Wardens, and Secretaries Associations. (Jerry L. Jones) Congrats Brother Jones (MOT Member Jonesvilletexas).
- 1:38 PM - The members in attendence just sang Happy Birthday to Brother Biggs. Brother Biggs is 107 years old. It is reported that it was "awesome" to hear 2000 Master Masons all singing Happy Birthday.
- 2:29 PM - The Grand Orator RW Jerry Martin is speaking to the members in attendance about speaking of Freemasonry to "everyone". Membership is "Thriving" "Charity only goes so far. We must talk."
- 3:00 PM - Resolution 5 is currently being discussed. There is a "lot" of discussion going on.
The Resolution is as follows:
5. Amend Art. 276 (a) to permit a newly elected Worshipful Master's proficiency to be determined to the satisfaction of his Lodge and not by the Committee on Work or a District Instructor. (PGM Bob Waters).
- 3:15 PM - Resolution 5 has gone to secret ballot. This seems to be a close vote.
- 3:18 PM - The doors to the Main Chamber have been Locked and Tyled. (Nothing will be updated until the doors have been reopened. All discussion during this time will NOT be reported as well. Stay posted for outcome of vote.)
- 3:38 PM - Committee on Work reported best Degree teams. Carrolton 1400 EA, Round Rock 277 FC and Laredo 547 MM.
- 3:50 PM - Resolution 5 (Passed) Discuss this right now in the link below or in the discussion thread.
The Resolution is as follows:
5. Amend Art. 276 (a) to permit a newly elected Worshipful Master's proficiency to be determined to the satisfaction of his Lodge and not by the Committee on Work or a District Instructor. (PGM Bob Waters).
- 3:58 PM - Internet Committee asked that Members share their views of Texas Masonry and thanked blake and joey for all their help on the new website.
- 4:54 PM - Resolution 7 had drawn quite a debate. The voting has once again gone to a secret ballot. (Resolution 6 will be withdrawn if 7 Passes.)
The Resolutions are as follows:
6. Amend Art. 32(b) to permit a restored Lodge to change its original chartered name after 36 months. (Floyd Trammell).
7. Amend Art. 32(b) to permit a restored Lodge to change its original chartered name with approval of GL & the By-Laws Committee. (Cliff Cameron)
Check back soon for further updates. Updates will be posted in this post. Be sure and discuss the actions above
HERE. This is your oppurtunity to voice YOUR opinion just as if you were in Waco, TX right now.
