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York Rite Crusader

Spring, 2012 Volume XLVIII -- Issue 2

Governor General’s Message

To all Companion Knights,

I extend to each of you greetings on behalf of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America. As this is my last Crusader Article, I would like to thank all the Companion Knights and ladies of our Sovereign College.

For my Masonic work, the past two years have been, and will be, among my most memorable. During my

travels, I have been greeted with such fraternal hospitality, and respect. I thank you all for your continued support and fraternal companionship.

We have accomplished several things these past two years. At the Sovereign College level, we have involved more Companion Knights with the conferral of the Order of the Purple Cross at our General Assemblies. I hope this will continue, as it proved to be quite a success. From accounts from the Grand Governors, involvement at the College level has also increased, with more Companion Knights “stepping up to the plate”. We have a wealth of talent out there!!!

We created a few new pieces of Regalia, the Grand Governor Pin, General Membership Charms, and now in the early stages of planning is a 50 Year Pin and Certificate.

We have established a new award which can be given to any lady or non masonic individual for rendering outstanding and faithful service to any branch of Freemasonry. It is called the “Diamond Award” which is now ready for purchase. Details are contained in this issue on page 2.

And with the help of our Education Committee, we have completed an “Educational Program” to be offered to any Companion Knight. I would like to extend my thanks to Robert G. Davis, and members of his committee. Since the start of my biennium, they have been working very hard to complete this program. Details of this program can be found in this issue on page 6.

As you know, our 55th General Assembly is just around the corner, August 2-4, 2012 in Toronto, Ontario. Great events have been planned by the capable members and their ladies of the colleges in Ontario. They have two tours planned, as well as a Meet & Greet. We have continued the rearrangement of

the schedule of events to permit some Companion Knights, who choose, to save a day of travel and expense. This schedule will also permit the Sovereign College Officers to attend the most important workshop for Grand Governors and Deputy Grand Governors.

I would like to extend my congratulations to the members of the 2012 Order of the Purple Cross Class. I know each of you realize what this honor means. It is the highest honor we confer on an individual. I thank each of you for your continued service and look forward to greeting you in Toronto. This year’s Class will be named in honor and memory of Past Governor General Donald A. King, a great mason and gentlemen of the first order.

Our very capable Sovereign College Officers are, again, stepping aside this year in the conferral of the Order of the Purple Cross. We are trying to involve more Companion Knights in the General Assembly and a team of volunteers will confer our College’s highest honor. I look forward to their fine exemplification.

During my term of Office I have come to know many new faces and I owe a great deal of thanks to so many who have supported me these past two years, too many to mention here. I have received advice and support from all our trusted Past Governors General and I thank each one of them. My Officers have given their time and talent and I thank each one of them. To all the Grand Governors, Deputy Grand Governors, Committee Members and Chairman who have served this Sovereign College well during my term, I thank you. But most of all I thank all the Companion Knights, for without their support and their efforts we would not have this beloved York Rite Sovereign College.

I look forward to greeting you in Toronto, Ontario at our 55th General Assembly.

Fraternally, Joe R. Manning, Jr., KGCY, Governor General

The York Rite Sovereign College of North America is pleased to announce that the

2012 Order of the Purple Cross Class is named in honor and in memory of

Most Preeminently Distinguished Past Governor General, Donald A. King.

The 2012 Order of the Purple Cross Class

“Donald A. King Memorial Class”

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York Rite Sovereign College

Of North America

500 Temple Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201

Tel. (313) 833-1385 * Fax (313) 833-7735

E-mail: yrsc_na@yahoo.com

Website www.yrscna.org

Officers 2011/2012

Joe R. Manning, Jr. ............................ Governor General

Gerald A. Ford ...................... Deputy Governor General

David G. Walker .............................. Chancellor General

Reese L. Harrison, Jr. ......................... Treasurer General

D. Allen Surratt .................................. Secretary General

Rev. Robert J. Cave ............................... Primate General

Ronald E. Wood, Jr. ..............Associate Primate General

Matthew D. Dupee ............................. Preceptor General

Douglas L. Jordan. ............................ Seneschal General

Van A. Evans ....................................... Marshal General

W. Berry Rigdon .................................. Sentinel General

W. Job Parsons .......................... Grand Standard Bearer

Blaine H. Simons .................................... Herald General

Robert E. Burleson ............................... Grand Herald

Ernest Berry. ......................................... Grand Herald

Richard A. Eppler ................................. Grand Herald

William G. Hinton .................................. Grand Organist

MAYFLOWER YORK RITE COLLEGE No. 105 Marlborough, Massachusetts

A significant mission of Mayflower College No. 105 is to bring Masonic Light and Knowledge to the brethren and Companions of Massachusetts by installing many of the bodies. This fall the College installed eight Chapters, six Councils and five Commanderies. One installing team consisted of VED David F. D’Amato (Deputy Grand Governor of Massachusetts), Council Installing Ill. Master and Chapter Captain of the Host; Ex. John C. Sutterley (Past Deputy Grand Governor and Past Grand Commander), Chapter Installing High Priest and Council Installing Master of Ceremonies. Grand Commander John C. Sutterley installed the Commanderies. Companion Knights David F. D’Amato, PC Installing Marshal and William P. Miller, PC was Installing Chaplain for all bodies.

On two evenings this team did Chapter, Council and Commandery where the three meet jointly. With the number of Masons willing and able to work continually decreasing, it is important to have teams available to perform these rituals in superb form.

Charles F. Davis, Jr., Past Grand Governor/MA

York Rite Sovereign College presents

“The Diamond Award”

The Diamond Award may be granted to any lady or any non Masonic individual for rendering outstanding and faithful service to any branch of Freemasonry. A nomination must be formally proposed by a York Rite College and approved by the Grand Governor of the State or Province. There is no restriction of the number of Diamond Awards that may be granted each year by a Constituent York Rite College. The cost of the award shall be borne by the proposing College and is $10.00 per award and includes a suitable certificate for framing. Nominations can be found on our website or you may request nomination forms by contacting the Detroit Office at (313) 833-1385 or email yrsc_na@yahoo.com.

THOMAS SMITH WEBB COLLEGE NO. 192 Columbus, Ohio

Celebrates receipt of the 2011 Spencer Award

Pictured above receiving the plaque are Jean W. Justus, Jr., Deputy Governor; Dan C. Arnold, Grand Governor of Ohio; Tony Bachman, PG;

Donald L. Losasso, Governor; and Gary D. Shoemaker, Chancellor.

Thomas Smith Webb College No. 192 was the recipient of the Spencer Award at the 2011 General Assembly of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America. Many of the Companion Knights of our college are responsible for the impressive list of activities which were recorded on our Annual Report, and which formed the basis for this recognition. Each year, our college has performed among the top group. However, during the 2010-11 year, the members decided to do even more than they had in the past. We were pleased indeed, that our efforts made a difference, and that we were able to bring positive attention to our College.

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Governors! Keep in mind that if your College would like

to nominate your College Secretary for the Secretary of the Year Award, please request the nomination form from the Sovereign College Office or visit the website. All nominations forms are due back in the Sovereign College Office by July 01, 2012.

Should your College Secretary become sick, or otherwise disabled, please delegate the responsibility to a pro-tem appointment to ENSURE compliance with Section 110 (A) page 32 “Every York Rite College shall submit concurrently to the Secretary General of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America and to the Colleges Grand Governor its Annual Returns, Financial Report, Activities Report, and such other reports as may be required from time to time, in and on the forms specified, to be received in the Sovereign College Office no later than July 1 of each year.” and Section 6 (I) page 18 “A nominee to receive the Order of the Purple Cross of York shall not have his nomination approved by the Board of Directors if the Annual Return and Financial obligation of the College of which he is a member are not received at the Office of the Secretary General by July 1 of that year. Failure to comply nullifies your OPC nominations.”Please ensure that your college complies with all the above.

Grand Governors Workshop Toronto, Ontario

At the workshop the forms will be discussed, and how the information gathered from them is tabulated and used to help determine the condition of the Order. New Grand Governors and Deputy Grand Governors will have a chance to learn their duties and network with present and out-going Grand Governors to better understand the Order, what is happening in the different jurisdictions and share what works and what doesn’t.

- This is a must attend workshop

NIAGARA FRONTIER COLLEGE No. 77 Buffalo, New York

On January 3, 2012 the Companion Knights of Niagara Frontier No.77 York Rite College accepted an invitation to install the Officers of East Aurora Chapter No. 282 located in East Aurora, New York. The Installation Team under the direction of Preeminent Governor Jeffrey M. Williamson, PGHP NY, consisted entirely of the highly dedicated members and officers of the local York Rite College. The ceremonies of Installation were performed in a truly impressive and dignified manner, much to the satisfaction of the Companions present.

A special thank-you is extended to Knight Companion James E. Sullivan, the Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York taking time from his busy schedule to assist in the Installation Ceremony.

First Row seated (from left to right) Distinguished Brother Paul Barrera, Jr., Past Governor & OPC, Knight Companion James E. Sullivan, DGM NY, Knight Companion Michael Driver, High Priest of Chapter, Preeminent Jeffrey M. Williamson, Governor, Knight Companion Richard J. Kessler, Noble Seneschal. Second Row Standing (from left to right) Knight Companion Selom Adjogah, Preeminent Carl L. Fisher, Past Governor, Knight Companion Leland Jones, Knight Companion Keith Poppendeck, Distinguished Brother Bert A. Larson, Past Governor and OPC, Knight Companion Maurice Janeczko. Third Row standing (from left to right) Knight Companion Gerald Coleman, Knight Companion Russell Barber, Distinguished Brother Griffith Jones III, Past Governor and OPC, Knight Companion Lee Garrison, Noble Marshal, Knight Companion David Thomason.

L to R: V. W. Bro. Craig Robinson, Past Governor Quinte York Rite College No. 53 Belleville Ont.; W. Bro. Doug Stitt, Past Governor Quinte York Rite College No. 53 Belleville Ont.; THE RECIPIENT OF THE GOLD HONOUR AWARD W. Bro. Thomas Hughes; W. Bro. Jim Wilson Master of St. Andrews Lodge # 497 Sharbot Lake Ontario; Rt. Wor. Bro John Beedham, Deputy Gov-ernor Quinte York Rite College No. 53 Belleville Ont.; V. Wor. Bro. Carman Sararas, Sentinel Quinte York Rite College No. 53 Belleville Ont.; Rt. W. Bro. Doug Galt D. D. G. M. Ont. Dist.; and a Past Master of this Frontenac District.

V. W.Bro. Carman Sararas presented W. Bro. Hughes with the Gold Honour Award with a fine explanation of it's meaning and that W. Bro. Hughes received this award for his diligent contribution to York Rite Masonry, which consists of Lodge, The Holy Royal Arch and Commandery or Preceptory.

QUINTE YORK RITECOLLEGE No. 53 Belleville, Ontario

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YORK RITE SOVEREIGN COLLEGE OF NORTH AMERICA

55th GENERAL ASSEMBLY - TORONTO, ONTARIO - AUGUST 2-4, 2012

REGISTRATION FORM

Name:__________________________________________________ Are you a Candidate? Yes___________ No __________

Address: ____________________________________________________________________________ College No. _______

City: _________________________________ State/Province: _______________________ Zip/Postal Code: _____________

Daytime Phone: (_________)_______________________ Lady’s Name (only if attending):___________________________

Email: _______________________________________________

TRANSPORTATION * PLEASE LIST DATE AND TIME OF ARRIVAL / DEPARTURE

I will be arriving by: Air _________ Car _________ Train _________ Bus ________

Arrival: Date:___________________________ Time: _____________________ AM or PM

Carrier: ___________________________________________________ Flight Number _____________

Departure: Date:___________________________ Time: _____________________ AM or PM

Carrier: ___________________________________________________ Flight Number ______________

Reservations with the Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel & Suites? Yes__ No__ Date Reservations made ___________

Reservation made with another hotel? Please note Hotel _____________________________________________

ASSEMBLY AND MEAL REGISTRATION

Men’s Registration Fee (Only Candidates are exempt) _________ x $30.00 _________

Thursday August 2, 2012

Tour: Niagara Falls (Lunch included) .................................................................................... _________ x $75.00 _________

Meet & Greet ............................................................................................................................. _________ x $24.00 _________

Friday August 3, 2012

K.Y.C.H. Breakfast (open to all Companion Knights & Ladies) .............................................. _________ x $26.00 _________

Men’s Luncheon ......................................................................................................................... _________ x $32.00 _________

Tours: Dundurn Castle & Legends Winery Tour & Tasting (Lunch is included) ................... _________ x $75.00 _________

Associate Regents’ Dinner (open to all Companion Knights & Ladies) .................................... _________ x $54.00 _________

Saturday August 4, 2012

Candidates’ Breakfast (men only) .............................................................................................. _________ x $26.00 _________

Men’s Luncheon (candidates only) ............................................................................................ _________ x $32.00 _________

Men’s Luncheon (others) ........................................................................................................... _________ x $32.00 _________

Ladies’ Luncheon (recognizing the ladies of the 2012 OPC Candidates) ................................. _________ x $40.00 _________

Annual Grand Banquet ........................................................... ................................................... _________ x $60.00 _________

Late Registration: $25.00 additional per person if postmarked after June 29 (no guarantees) . _________ x $25.00 _________

Total Enclosed (US or Canadian Funds) ................................................................ $ _________

Make Check payable to: YRSC Annual Assembly 2012 and mail to: David Hardie Email: abbadoc@rogers.com

328 Brewery Ln. Telephone: (705) 259-0706

Orillia, ON L3V 7H6

All registration forms must be received by June 29, 2012. No refunds after July 9, 2012

Make hotel reservations with Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel & Suites

Online at Hilton.com or www.toronto-apt.hilton.com or (905) 677-9900 (See hotel sheet for hotel info. & rates)

No. Requested Total Amount ** Please specify if Special Dietary needs are required ______________________________________

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YORK RITE SOVEREIGN COLLEGE OF NORTH AMERICA 55th GENERAL ASSEMBLY - TORONTO, ONTARIO - AUGUST 2-4, 2012

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Thursday August 2, 2012

8:00 am - 5:00 pm YRSC Office (12:00 - 1:00 closed for lunch) Erin Mills Main

9:00 am - 9:00 pm Board of Directors’ Meeting (business suit) Pearson Bdroom Conference

11:00 am - 6:00 pm Registration Mississauga Foyer Main

12:00 pm - 5:00 pm Hospitality Room Cawthra Room Conference

8:30 am - 5:00 pm Tour: Niagara Falls (casual dress) Main Lobby Main

5:00 pm Jurisdictional Dinners

8:00 pm - 10:00 pm Dessert Meet & Greet (Cash Bar & special prizes) (casual dress) Vista Foyer Main

Immed. after Bd. Meet Joint Meeting of YRSC Bd./US Charitable Trustees (business suit) Pearson Bdroom Conference

Friday August 3, 2012

7:00 am - 9:00 am K.Y.C.H. Breakfast (business suit) Dundas Room Conference

8:00 am - 5:00 pm YRSC Office (12:00 - 1:00 closed for lunch) Erin Mills Main

8:00 am - 5:00 pm Hospitality Room Cawthra Room Conference

8:00 am - 6:00 pm Registration Mississauga Foyer Main

9:00 am - 11:30 am Grand Governors/Deputies Workshop (business suit) Mississauga A & D Main

8:45 am - 3:00 pm Tour: Dundurn Castle & Legends Winery Tour (casual dress) Main Lobby Main

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Men’s Luncheon (business suit) Vista Salon Main

1:30 pm - Regents’ & Grand Governors’ Meeting (business suit) Mississauga A & D Main

Immed. after Reg./Gr. Gov. General Assembly (business suit) Mississauga A & D Main

3:00 pm - 5:30 pm Candidate Orientation (casual dress) Vista Salon Main

Immed. after Gen. Assem. U.S. Charitable Fund Meeting (business suit) Mississauga A & D Main

4:00 pm - 5.00 pm Charitable Foundation of Canada Meeting (business suit) Mississauga A & D Main

Order of the Purple Cross Rehearsal Vista Foyer Main

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Social Hour Mississauga Foyer Main

7:00 pm - 10:00 pm Associate Regent Dinner/Meeting (business suit) Mississauga B & C Main

Saturday August 4, 2012- (Tuxedo all day)

7:00 am - 8:30 am Candidates Breakfast Vista Salon Main

8:00 am - 2:45 pm YRSC Office (11:30 - 1:30 closed for lunch) Erin Mills Main

8:00 am - 4:00 pm Hospitality Room Cawthra Room Conference

8:00 am - 1:30 pm Registration Mississauga Foyer Main

9:00 am - 11:30 am General Assembly Mississauga A & D Main

9:00 am - 11:30 am Candidates Preparation Vista Salon Main

11:15 am - 12:00 pm Men’s Luncheon - (Candidates) Dundas Room Conference

11:30 am - 1:30 pm Ladies Luncheon (dressy casual) TBA

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Men’s Luncheon - (Others) Dundas Room Conference

12:30 pm - 1:30 pm Class Photo TBA

1:30 pm - 3:00 pm Order of the Purple Cross Mississauga Ballroom Main

3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Installation of Sovereign College Officers Mississauga Ballroom Main

3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Installation of Appointments & Honors/Awards Mississauga Ballroom Main

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Social Hour Mississauga Foyer Main

7:00 pm - 10:00 pm Annual Grand Banquet (white coat or tuxedo) Mississauga Ballroom Main

~ Rooms and times subject to change ~

Date - Time Event Room Floor/Level

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2012 CHARITABLE MEETINGS ANNOUNCEMENTS

U.S. Charitable Fund

A Joint Meeting between the Sovereign College Board of Directors and the U.S. Charitable Fund Trustees will be held on Thursday, August 2, 2012 immediately following the Board Meeting in the Pearson Boardroom of the Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel, Toronto, Ontario.

The U.S. Charitable Fund will meet in the Mississauga Ballroom immediately following the General Assembly on Friday, August 3, 2012 at the Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel in Toronto, Ontario.

Charitable Foundation of Canada

The York Rite Sovereign College Charitable Foundation of Canada will meet in the Mississauga Ballroom at 3:00 pm on Friday, August 3, 2012 at the Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel in Toronto, Ontario.

2012 Annual General Meeting and “Governor General’s Luncheon”

Greetings. The Board of Directors of the York Rite Sovereign College Charitable Foundation of Canada encourages you to actively promote, support our charitable works for the benefit of registered Canadian York Rite Charitable Organizations.

The 2012 Annual General Meeting of the York Rite Sovereign College Charitable Foundation of Canada will take place from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm, Wednesday, August 22nd, in the Erin Mills Room at the Toronto Airport Hilton Hotel, 5875 Airport Road, Mississauga, Ontario. Canadian Regents, Associate Regents and Companion Knights are voting members of the Foundation. This event is being held in conjunction with the 77th Annual Assembly of the Grand Imperial Conclave of Canada. After last year’s successful event, it will again include a “Governor General’s Luncheon” for Companion Knights and their Ladies at a cost of $30.00 per person. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are available from the Foundation Secretary, David G. Walker, 5130 Elliott Sideroad, Midland, ON L4R 4K3. Cheques should be made payable to the Foundation and marked “2012 Tickets.”

With your continued support, and that of Companion Knights of the 26 York Rite Colleges of Canada, the York Rite Sovereign College Charitable Foundation of Canada made grants in 2011 to:

Cryptic Rite Charitable Foundation $2,000.00

Knights Templar Charitable Found. of Canada $1,000.00

Grand Imperial Conclave Char. Found. of Canada $1,000.00

Total $4,000.00

YORK RITE SOVEREIGN COLLEGE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM

Last year, the Education Committee recommended that an “educational tool kit” be developed and administered by the Sovereign College. Subsequently, we received a number of requests to consider developing a program similar to the Southern Jurisdiction Scottish Rite’s Master Craftsman program. For those not familiar with the Master Craftsman program, it is a series of multiple choice exams and essay questions on the degrees of the Scottish Rite. It is administered by the House of the Temple staff in Washington, DC, and has proven to be a very popular program for the Scottish Rite.

The Education Committee agreed that a similar program should be developed and adopted by the Sovereign College. Participation by companions and knights across North America will strengthen the value of every College and the York Rite in general. To this end, the committee has developed a self-study program through the Chapter and Council Degrees and the Commandery Orders of the York Rite.

Companion Adept of the Temple is a self-study program through the Degrees and Orders of the York Rite of Freemasonry administered by the Sovereign York Rite College of North America. This program is offered to any York Rite Mason by enrollment through the Sovereign College office.

The program offers a series of exams focused on the ritualistic, philosophical, and esoteric teachings of the York Rite. The exams include a combination of multiple-choice, true-false, and essay questions pertaining to information presented in the Degrees and Orders of the Rite and/or in the resource materials which are recommended for purchase with the program.

There are five exams included in the curriculum, The first two exams will cover the Chapter Degrees and are styled “The Degrees of the Capitular Rite.” Exam III is titled “The Degrees of the Cryptic Rite;” Exam IV covers “The Orders of Chivalry,” and Exam V is titled “The York Rite Traditions and Freemasonry.

Enrollment in the Companion Adept of the Temple will be through the Sovereign College office. The enrollment cost will be $30.00, Resource materials which can be used in taking each exam, along with ordering information, will also be listed. Enrollees can purchase these materials to use as a guide in answering the questions provided in each exam. These resources include books which are readily available through Masonic Supply catalogues or as downloadable ebooks, such as Understanding the Royal Arch, Guide to the Royal Arch Chapter, Some Royal Arch Terms Examined, and The Royal Arch, Its Hidden Meaning.

This Program is currently available. Please contact the Detroit Office

for enrollment information.

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Continuing their mission to assist and support the York Rite bodies, Illinois College No. 15 maintains a highly proficient degree team that periodically confers the full-form Illustrious Order of the Red Cross and Order of Malta on candidates from Commanderies of Knights Templar in the Greater Chicago area. Like many Colleges, Illinois No. 15 has four appointed Heralds, one each for the Blue Lodge, Royal Arch Chapter, Cryptic Council and Commandery, identifying assistance needs and coordinating officer slates. Serving as the Chivalric Orders Herald is S.K. William E. Jegen, Very Eminent Deputy Grand Commander. The most recent conferral organized by Companion Knight Jegen involved 14 candidates and was hosted by Joliet Commandery No. 4 on November 12, 2011. Participants included members of Ivanhoe No. 33 of Kankakee, St. Bernard No. 35 and St. Elmo No. 64 of Chicago, Bethel No. 36 of Palatine, Mizpah No. 53 of Oak Lawn, Evanston No. 58 of Evanston, and Trinity No. 80 of Downers Grove. “Most Commanderies by themselves are unable to assemble a team to confer the Red Cross and Malta in full form, which requires equipment and uniforms they may no longer have,” said Preeminent Governor Daryl W. Selock, OPC. “Our College provides quality degree experiences that help rejuvenate the York Rite bodies while preparing many candidates to receive the Order of the Temple.” The Grand Commandery of Illinois now offers subordinate Commanderies the option of conferring at their annual inspections the full-form Red Cross and Malta, which together take about four hours, instead of the usual Order of the Temple. Officers of those Commanderies can now use the College’s Red Cross and Malta conferrals to familiarize themselves with the paraphernalia and floorwork.

ILLINOIS YORK RITE COLLEGE No. 15 Chicago, Illinois

On Saturday, October 15, 2011 during the District Meeting for Lunenburg-Queens District, Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia VED Brother John Dollimount, Deputy Grand Governor for Nova Scotia presented Wor. Bro. Frederick Swiminer of Norwood Lodge #135, New Ross with the Gold Honour Award for his dedication and contributions to masonry throughout the District of Lunenburg-Queen’s as well as his own Lodge. Some 60 Masons were present to witness the recognition of this deserving mason who was quite unaware of his part in the recognition portion of the meeting.

NOVA SCOTIA Gold Honour Presentation

Western Nebraska York Rite College No. 173 met October 8, 2011, at the Masonic Temple in North Platte for its regular meeting. The group received Jim Lawrence as our newest member as a Knight of York. A light lunch was enjoyed around a round table at which many things were discussed.

Front row from left, Arthur R. Stricker, Roland Coker, Glenn R. Mulholland, candidate Right Eminently Distinguished Brother Robert L. Williams, Grand Governor of Nebraska York Rite College of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America, William C. Boon. Back row from left, Mervin W. Titchen, Howard C. Gebhardt, Richard Cooper, Jim Lawrene. Photo by Walter Johnson.

WESTERN NEBRASKA COLLEGE No. 173 North Platte, Nebraska

There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.

- Edith Wharton

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Thursday & Friday Tours - Toronto, Ontario

All Tours will meet in the Main Lobby on the 1st floor. Lunch is included with both tours.

Niagara Falls Tour - Thursday, August 2, 2012 $75.00 per person

Water rushes all around as you "soak" in the excitement and explore the roar of the Falls. A historical ride aboard the world-famous Maid of the Mist is a half hour thrill of a lifetime! North America's oldest tourist attraction, millions of visitors have enjoyed the boat tours since 1846.

A powerful diesel-engine boat will take you from the Canadian docks past the base of the American Falls, then into the basin of the magnificent Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Two 600-passenger boats, Maids VI and VII, are each 80-feet (24m) long and have two 350-horsepower engines that carry the vessels against the powerful current. A recyclable

souvenir raincoat is provided free with admission to help keep you dry from the mist and spray. At the end of your boat tour, you will enter the Maid of the Mist Plaza, which includes gift shops for your pleasure.

The buses, provided by Coach, are air conditioned, and will provide for our comfort during our travel. They will leave the hotel at 8:30 am and return at 5:00 pm. Lunch will be served at Niagara Masonic Lodge.

Dundurn Castle & Legends Winery Tour & Tasting, August 3, 2012 $75.00 per person

Dundurn Castle is a historic neoclassical mansion in Hamilton, Ontario. The 18,000-square-foot (1,700 m2) house took three years and $175,000.00 to build, and was completed in 1835. The 72 room castle featured the latest conveniences of gas lighting and running water. The rooms have been restored to the year 1855 when its owner Sir Allan Napier MacNab, 1st Baronet, was at the height of his career. Costumed interpreters guide visitors through the home, illustrating daily life from the 1850s. Currently, the Duchess of Cornwall, Camilla Parker-Bowles is the Royal Patron of Dundurn Castle.

Legends Estates Winery overlooks Lake Ontario and is surrounded by estate vineyards. They extend their familial hospitality to every guest that

walks through their doors, from the budding novice to the seasoned connoisseur. From their first vintage in 2000, it became clear Legends Estates Winery was graced with excellent terroir. Grape wines, fruit wines, Ice wine and rare reserves; all richly styled with quality and care. Their wines have captured awards at Canadian and International competitions, including Best White

Wine and Best Rosé in Ontario in 2009. Wine tasting will be an additional $5.00 charge at the winery.

The buses, provided by Coach, are air conditioned and will provide for our comfort during our travel. They will leave the hotel at 8:45 am and return at 3:00 pm. Lunch will be served at Legends Winery.

Informal Meet & Greet, August 2, 2012 - $24.00 per person: On Thursday evening we will be

having an informal Meet & Greet. Come enjoy desserts and renew some old acquaintances and possibly make some new friends. Cash Bar will be available. With each ticket purchased you will receive a raffle ticket. Raffles will be given throughout the night.

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This years hotel for our 55th General Assembly is the

Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel & Suites. Reservations can be made by telephone or online.

York Rite Sovereign College of North America August 2-4, 2012

Group Code: YORK11

Reservations: Can be made online at Hilton.com or the hotels website at www.toronto-apt.hilton.com or by calling the Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel at (905) 677-9900. To ensure you receive the group rate, please specify that you are with the York Rite Sovereign College and our group code YORK11. All Reservations must be received with a 1st night deposit or be guaranteed by a major credit card.

Telephone: (905) 677-9900.

Rate: $124.00 (Canadian Funds) Double or King Special room rate is available until June 29, 2012 or until the group block is sold-out whichever comes first.) When making reservations by phone, please mention York Rite Sovereign College’s Group Code YORK11 to receive the special room rate. The special room rate is available from July 26 to August 8 for those wishing to extend their stay. The Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel guest rooms are designed with both comfort and efficiency in mind. Each guest room is available in king or double beds, offering breathtaking views. All rooms are beautifully decorated and contain all the comforts you would expect from this level of hotel. Room Rates are $124.00 (Canadian Funds), plus applicable taxes per night.

Transportation to and from Hotel: For those who are flying to the Assembly, Please utilize the Lester B. Pearson International Airport. Complimentary shuttle service to and from the hotel is provided. Shuttle bus runs 24 hours. Shuttle pick up at Terminal 1 is ground level at post S5 or P3 and Terminal 3 is post C22. Take Highway 401 Westbound to Highway 409 Westbound, exit on Airport Rd. and turn left. The Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel is on your left through the second set of lights. Coming from the West: Take Highway 401 Eastbound to Highway 427 North, exit on Dixon Rd. and turn left. The Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel is on your right after the Esso gas station. Coming from the Lester B. Pearson International Airport: Follow exit signs to Airport Road. Turn right on Airport Road (eastbound). The hotel is located on your left (northside). For those who are driving complimentary parking is available.

Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel & Suites 5875 Airport Road, Mississauga, ON L4V 1N1

Telephone: (905) 677-9900

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The following recommendation to change the Sovereign College Constitution and By-laws was received by the Board and was approved to refer to the Regents with a recommendation for approval at their next Meeting on August 3, 2012. (words underlined & bolded are to be added) To amend Article IV, Section 2, page 10 to read:

“The Governor General shall appoint with himself as chairman ex-officio and with members assigned specific responsibilities for Jurisprudence, Finance, Auditing, Nominating, Ritual, Regalia, Investment Advisory, and such other functions as the Governor General may designate. All appointments of Committee Chairman are subject to the approval of the Board of Directors. (8/95)”

LEGISLATIVE CALL Toronto, Ontario - 2012

On January 13, 2012, the Companion Knights of Ashmole York Rite College No. 108, in Montgomery, Alabama, welcomed two new Companion Knights.

(Front Left to Right: CK Pauley, CK Tackett) (Rear Left to Right: Governor Smith, Grand Governor Campbell)

During the regular business meeting, the Grand Governor of Alabama, Right Eminently Distinguished Brother Arthur Lee Campbell III, presented Preeminent Companion Knight Jamie A. Smith with the Joseph D. Brackin Award for the number one College in Alabama.

(Left to Right: Governor Smith, Grand Governor Campbell)

Attention Grand Governors & Secretaries

Please ensure that all Order of the Purple Cross Nominations are submitted on the correct form (dated at the bottom 2/08). Any nominations received on the previous forms will be returned to the Grand Governor.

OPC Nominations will not be considered without an Annual Report. All OPC Nomination Forms, Service Award Nominations as well as the Annual Returns are due in the Detroit Office by July 1, 2012.

If you have any questions, please contact the Sovereign College Office.

ASHMOLE COLLEGE No. 108 Montgomery, Alabama

TRI-VALLEY COLLEGE No. 178 Twin Falls, Idaho

On January 9, 2012, the Companion Knights of Tri-Valley College No. 178 conferred the 1st Degree for Idaho Lodge #1. We had 22 Masons in attendance representing 9 Lodges. Pictured above: Top Row (L-R): Me, David Grindle - Deputy Grand Governor of Idaho (OPC), Jerry Parsons - Seneschal, and G. Arthur Shoemaker - Secretary & Past Governor (PG). Bottom Row (L-R): Ron Berto - Grand Governor of Idaho (PG, OPC), Jay Leonard - PG (OPC), Eric Shunk (the candidate), Bill Curtis - Worshipful Master of Idaho #1 and Governor of Tri-Valley College #178, Stan Barker - Past Governor (OPC), and Art Easley - Chancellor.

Barry E Newell, Companion Knight Tri-Valley College #178

YORK RITE CRUSADER

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NORTHEAST TENNESSEE COLLEGE NO. 153 Johnson City, Tennessee

Arcana Lodge #489 F&AM, Limestone, TN invited the degree team of the Northeast Tennessee York Rite College No. 153 to confer the Master Mason Degree (in Tuxedo) on September 17, 2011. The candidate was Taylor Samples. In the first section Chancellor James Saults was WM and other members of the College filled the other stations and places. In the second section James Tyree, Jr. was King Solomon with other members of the college filling the other parts. After the degree, the new brother stated how honored he was to have received the third degree and how impressed he was with its conferral. He plans to be a candidate for the York Rite.

Pictured above L to R: Danny McClellan, Daryl Millard, Von Lewis, Gary Black, Eugene Howell (Grandfather of the candidate), John Kerr (Deputy Governor), Taylor Samples (Candidate), james Tyree, Jr., James Cosnell, James Tyree, III, Robert Beals (Master of Arcana Lodge), Gary Coates (Primate), James Saults (Chancellor), Bill Trivett, Richard Burow (Secretary) and Don Chase.

On November 10, 2011 Northeast College No. 153 organized and provided a Knight Templar Honor Guard for the Veterans Day Parada at the Walters State College Coliseum in Morristown, TN. Several Knights from other Tennessee York Rite College were invited and participated. Approximately 26 Knights participated. The Knights formed two lines and presented swords as the various military unites marched thru, then the Knights marched around the coliseum at the end. The public event had approximately 5,000 in attendance. The Knights received warm welcome and many thanks from the crowd.

On January 28, 2012, Tahoma York Rite College No. 197 had a first of its type in the state of Washington. We hosted a Special Assembly of the Sovereign York Rite College of North America. The purpose of the Assembly was to confer the Order of the Purple Cross on candidate, Donald M. Wertman. The special Assembly was arranged by REDB. T. H. Dickason, Regent. The Order of the Purple Cross was conferred by the following Associate Regents and Regent. Governor General, REDB Charley L. Chapman; Deputy Governor General, VEDB Robert Truesdale; Chancellor General, DB J. Rex Hartsfield; Seneschal General DB Louis E. Bartrand; Marshal General, REDB William R. Miller; Preceptor General DB Joseph W. MacIntyre; Primate General, DB James O. Wood; Treasurer General DB Jerry E. Whitney; Secretary General DB Jerry Whitney; Sentinel General, DB Timothy Hurley; Hearld General REDB T. H. Dickason; Herald, DB Edwin T. “Skip” Sanford; Herald, DB Norman Greenly; Herald, VEDB John Hardin. Upon completion of the conferral, newly made Associate Regent, Donald M. Wertman was presented his jewel by RED B Dickason and congratulated by all present. Our visiting Companion Knights, REDB Ronald Berto, Grand Governor of Idaho and VEDB David A. Grindle, Deputy Grand Governor of Idaho were introduced and accorded the proper honors. The Special Assembly was close din due form with peace and harmony prevailing. All then enjoyed a fine luncheon.

From Left to Right First Row: Skip Sanford, Bob Truesdale, Charley Chapman, Donald Wertman, Dick Dickason, John Hardin,

Ron Berto, and Bill Miller Second Row: Jerry Whitney, Jim Stphens, Peter Dawson, David Grindle, Mike Pursey Third Row: Norm Greenly, Joe MacIntyre, Bob Wilson, Rex Hartsfield, Alex Jordan, Bob Luttrell,

James O. Wood, Al Jorgensen, Louis Bartrand, and Tim Hurley

TAHOMA YORK RITE COLLEGE No. 197 Bremerton, Washington

YORK RITE CRUSADER

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IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

Due to the cost of shipping over the Boarder. A limited supply of jewelry will be available for immediate sale at this years General Assembly in Toronto, Ontario. There

will be no printed materials for sale.

Orders will be taken at the Assembly and will be shipped directly from Detroit, soon after the Assembly.

You can pre-order your jewelry in order to have it before the 2012 General Assembly by contacting the

Detroit Office by email: yrsc_na@yahoo.com

NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Permit No. 3367 Detroit, MI

YORK RITE SOVEREIGN COLLEGE

500 TEMPLE AVENUE

DETROIT, MI 48201

FUTURE GENERAL ASSEMBLIES OF THE SOVEREIGN COLLEGE

August 1-4, 2012 ........................................... Toronto, Ontario

July 25-28, 2013 .......................................... Tampa Bay, Florida

July 30 - August 2, 2014 ............................... Denver, Colorado

July 29 - August 1, 2015 ............................ Louisville, Kentucky If you are interested in hosting the General Assembly of the York Rite Sovereign College, please contact the Detroit Office for more details.

A FEW REMINDERS FOR ALL COLLEGE SECRETARIES & GOVERNORS...

If your college receives any type of notice from the IRS, please send it directly to the Sovereign College Office. The Auditor for the York Rite Sovereign College prepares the 990 for all the Constituent Colleges - PLEASE DO NOT FILE A 990 FOR YOUR COLLEGE.

When submitting an article or photo for the Crusader, this can be done thru email or regular mail. Do not submit photos which have been reproduced on a copy machine or send photos via fax. The picture is distorted and will not print correctly.

Orders can be sent to the Sovereign College thru email, fax, or regular mail. We ask that members contact the Secretary of your college to place an order. Please remember, due to the preparation for the General Assembly, all orders and Gold Honour Award Nominations will be filled in date order, if time permits, between June 1 - August 1, 2011.

All By-law amendments, must be submitted on the proper forms and include the signature (approval) of the Grand Governor of the Jurisdiction. If the amendment is not on the proper form and does not have the approval of the Grand Governor it will be returned to the college.

MEMO TO GRAND GOVERNORS

As Grand Governor, you are an essential member of the Committee of the ‘Study of the Condition of the York Rite Sovereign College’. The Chairman, R.E.D. Bro. David Hardie carefully reviews your visitation reports, and your annual reports to formulate his overview.

Please ensure that you have filled out and sent a copy of your Grand Governor Visitation Report on each College in your jurisdiction and forwarded it directly to David P. Hardie, 328 Brewery Ln., Orillia, ON L3V 7H6 as well as to the Detroit office, along with your written Annual Report, which will be printed in the proceedings. IT IS OF SIGNIFICANT IMPORTANCE to all of us that your report be completed and submitted to the Detroit office on or before June 1st.

Nominations for the Order of the Purple Cross Class of 2013, Secretary General’s Award and the Sovereign College Service Award must be in the Detroit Office by July 1, 2012, accompanied with complete justification for all nominations.

Please review Section 6 of the Regulations for the Government of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America in its entirety (pages 16, 17 & 18). ALSO, instruct your College Secretaries to forward you a copy of their annual returns, financial report and activities report at the same time they send it to the Detroit office (Section 110, page 32). This will eliminate incomplete, late or missing reports and avoid disappointment of a deserving Companion Knight.