NATIONAL SOJOURNERS, INC ANNUAL REPORTS

Transcription

1 NATIONAL SOJOURNERS, INC ANNUAL REPORTS 92 nd ANNUAL CONVENTION JUNE 2012 BURLINGTON, VERMONT 8301 East Boulevard Drive Alexandria, VA Phone: Fax:

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS NATIONAL PRESIDENT, William G.L. Turner... 3 NATIONAL PRESIDENT-ELECT, James R. (Bob) McConnell... 5 NATIONAL FIRST VICE PRESIDENT, Keye E. Perry, Sr NATIONAL SECOND VICE PRESIDENT, Merlen F. Howe... 9 NATIONAL THIRD VICE PRESIDENT, James N. Higdon NATIONAL SECRETARY/TREASURER, Nelson O. Newcombe NATIONAL HISTORIAN, S. Woodruff Bentley, Sr NATIONAL COMMANDER, Andrew Andy F. Hirst NATIONAL TRUSTEES, Elliott B. Samuels, Chairman COMMITTEE OF 33, Edward W. Nolte, Chairman INCENTIVES AND AWARDS COMMITTEE, Carl J. Diamond PUBLICATIONS REVIEW BOARD, Armand Cote, Chairman MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE, Irving Dietscher, Chairman BRIDGE OF LIGHT COMMITTEE, Henry Kuhn, Chairman FRATERNAL LIAISON COMMITTEE, William G. Sizemore, Chairman NATIONAL RESALE ACTIVITIES BOARD, John C. Mayers, Chairman CHAPTER REVITALIZATION & CHARTERING COMMITTEE, Edward Nolte MONTH FINANCIAL REPORT 1 JUL APRIL MEMBERSHIP STATUS MEMBERSHIP STATISTICS

3 NATIONAL PRESIDENT, William G.L. Turner My Fellow Sojourners Take a Bow!!! You have excelled beyond my wildest dreams across the board. A year ago, I asked you to ~ Aim High Make a Difference!!! You have done so in spades. If you have read The Sojourner, if you have donned your National Sojourners Masonic Apron, if you have earned the Propeller Pin, if you have your name in print in our magazine, if you put on your Colonials and presented a Flag Program, if you have presented the Toast to the Flag, if you have registered on our National Website, you are doing just that all of which is Propelling National Sojourners Forward. That is Making a Difference!! Don t stop this Order needs you now, more than ever, and your 2013 National Line needs you. Let me begin with some detail from our Goals & Objectives much more will be covered in other National Reports here and presented verbally, during the Convention: Membership: a. Add 400 new members and 550 MIP s. Our Natl Scty, Bro. Nellie Newcombe, LOH, says we missed the mark a little here at this writing, we have ~ 288 new members, and ~377 MIPS. b. Engage and embrace all members of the Order new and seasoned in a genuine, proactive mentorship that has them involved in Chapter activities flag programs, essay contest, awards medals, etc. Brother Dr. Jim Baker has established an introductory First Timers & Mentoring Program. It needs refinement, but is an outstanding stepping off point. He will welcome you joining him in this endeavor, so tell him you d like to participate Thanks, Bro. Jim. c. Encourage membership development through more chapter Service to the Craft BOL activities at the Grand and Blue Lodges, and Appendant Bodies. We must be doing something right, as I have received many compliments from Grand Masters and Grand Lodge Officers about our visibility. Our Grand Masters Chap #996 is spearheading this initiative, but YOU clearly are making your mark, as well. Most Worshipful Bro. Ray Vanden Berghe is President of #996 and look at all he is doing!! Leading the way on multiple fronts is Right Worshipful Past Grand Master (PA) Ed Weisser!!! d. Develop a program to attract servicemen to the Craft they become our future Sojourners. This is work in progress our National Vice Chair of Membership, Bro. Bob Roth, is maturing his efforts for the coming year. Operations: a. Improve communications by continuing evolutionary development of website content, and other IT-based social networks. We are genuinely on a roll. Our Natl Webmaster, Bro. Dave Alderfer, has taken charge of the Natl Sojo s IT environment. He has appointed several assistant webmasters, developed a Draft Natl Regulation see Resolution which will establish his office as a Natl Committee, and with Bro. Harry Sanders, PNP, continue the growth and improvement of our Website. We began the year with some 600 subscribers and now have over Bro. Dave contacted Bro. Val Finnell, M.D., who had begun a FACEBOOK page for National Sojourners, and it is now our National Initiative. Joining the FACEBOOK team is my bride, Patti, who will work with Bro. Val in maturing this addition to our repertoire Try It, You ll Like It. Well done, Bro. Val!! 3

4 b. Attract more members and First-Timers to National Meetings. See above, which ties in with Bro. Jim Baker s new initiative. You will see this in action at the 2012 Annual National Convention. Finances: a. Increase the Sojourner Endowment Memorial Fund by $25,000. Brethren, at this writing, we have some very generous donors. The contributions come from the normal pattern of their giving, but they also recognize the urgent need of the Order, so we can ensure our normal business, but with an eye toward our ever-increasing need for funds to refresh our Hqs IT environment. Likewise, they recognize the impending critical mass relocation of National Hqs. We are at >$42,000. b. Conduct a campaign to raise money for youth outreach and establish a National Sojourners 501(c)(3) Spirit of America Youth Education Foundation. This has not taken off, yet, as there are concerns about the full establishment of the Fund. Our Natl Judge Advocate, Bro. Ben Yudesis, PNP/PNC, LOH, advised at the outset of this Sojourner Year that it would be accomplished and formal application made to the IRS by this 2012 Convention. We continue to be hopeful and look for an announcement being made at this Convention. My primary areas of oversight are the Nominating Committee, Committee of 33, and National Trustees. Each of these areas are led by very capable members of our Order, so I will leave the Report on these areas to them, which you will find in this publication of National Reports. Further, please look for the traditional, exceptional Report of the National Secretary, Bro. Nelson O. Newcombe, LOH, for statistics that are important to us all. You will readily interpret how much in need we are of your proactive involvement. Patti and I have reveled in waving our National Flag and our National Sojourners Flag. We have traveled by year s-end to some thirty-one (31) Chapters, seven (7) Encampments, and seven (7) Grand Lodge Grand Annual Communications. These were complemented by six (6) special visitations including Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge, the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Southern Jurisdiction Biennial Session, the Conference of Grand Masters In North America (COGMINA), the National Society Sons of the American Revolution Trustee and Leadership Conference, the Virginia Society Sons of the American Revolution to honor former Attorney General Ed Meese he loved the Toast, and the Birthday celebration of Bro. U.S. President James Monroe at his birth site. What about you the Sojourner Team?? I don t have enough space to cover it all, but know that there are many who have contributed in a broad spectrum of areas allow me some reflections. We found ourselves in need of some major attention to the home of our Headquarters. Bro. NPE Bob McConnell took on the crisis portion he headed the Short Term Team in developing an immediate move plan, if needed. It is on the National Website. At this writing, we haven t had to employ it. Bro. N1VP Keye Perry, Sr., took on the very difficult task of the Long Term Team to find that permanent home for our Headquarters YOU need to help him NOW with your thoughts and ideas, as this complex plan must be ready all too soon. Bro. N2VP Merlen Howe took on the task of supporting me in investigating the conduct of a couple of Chapters. At this writing, his engagement has averted some closures we did have to close Golden Gate Chapter #18. As you will read and hear, we have some new ones cookin Tennessee and Arkansas. Further, he excelled in executing a near-perfect performance of National Sojourners at the COGMINA leading the way for the National Line, while we accepted the stellar performance of Bro. Rick Conn and the GA Chapters, as they supported us. Bro. N3VP Jim Higdon brought all of the efforts cited above into quality by offering 4

5 his energy and wise counsel. Without him, we would have gotten the job done, anyway; With him, we exceeded our expectations in each arena. He s a force to be reckoned with look for great things to come. How about Bros. Bob Colton and Jim Benson in the Western counties wonderful encampments. Oh, and lest we forget, Bro. Kermit Rosenthal with that bunch of the First Camel Corps. Who s Bro. Bruce Bonnell?? He s MWBro. Bruce, the Regional Rep. Hawaii, that did a great job with their Conference and Encampment we had to endure 80 degrees, sunshine, palm trees, good food and fellowship, but other than that well, you get the idea. Here on the home turf of the East, Bro. Bill Willey in Maine can cook that lobstah like nobody else love that Ben Hill Picnic/Encampment. Have you met Bro. Dick Friberg?? He can tell you more about Miami and Homestead than any three people and his sidekick Bro. Doug Bridges think of everything to make you at home wonderful Masons, wonderful Sojourners. Ever ridden on the Chattanooga Choo- Choo Bro. Haskell Clark will be happy to Conduct you down the tracks or up the Mountain (Lookout Mountain) such great history, and hospitality you cannot find everywhere. Bro. Tom Kuhn yes, he stepped forward at my call to fill the vacancy on the National Trustees but what a wonderful host he was in Eastern Pennsylvania with his great historical knowledge. Milwaukee enjoys having a great patriot and dedicated Sojourner in Bro. Chuck Wallens yes, yes, and Bro. Irv Dietscher, too. Wow, the attention to detail and cordial treatment of these two and the others of Chapter #27 just superb. Touring is a strong suit for Bro. Chuck and we truly enjoyed learning from him and Lady Betty. Hey, do you remember Bro. Charlie Maxson?? He earned the Memphis Cup last year well, he has stood up Narragansett (RI) Chapter #14, again. While doing so he got others engaged in this effort and other Chapters in the area so look up MWBro. Bill Greene of Hartford Chapter #56, a great guy and ready to serve!! Our last two visits before Burlington out west to the Grand Lodge of Arizona with National Sojourner and Grand Master Brook Cunningham/Lady Lynn, then back to the District of Columbia/Harmony Lodge No. 17 that insists that Patti and I, along with Bro. Bob Bussler/Cmdr, GW Camp (Washington #3), present the Historic Flag Program appropriately on D-Day, June 6 th. Brethren, in closing be a Merchant of Change. Do this for the Order, but do it for yourself you are the maker of your own destiny. Be proactive don t wait for something to happen make it happen. You ll be happier for it and America will be better for it through your industry in National Sojourners. Brethren, thank our ladies for all they do which is more than we recognize. I ve mentioned a few, but there are many, many more that deserve your praise. This banner year is coming to an end. My vision has not been met. There is much work to be done. My time is not up. Whatever you do, please join me and our National Line in continuing to Propel National Sojourners Forward. In all that we do, we must always ~ Aim High - Make a Difference. NATIONAL PRESIDENT-ELECT, James R. (Bob) McConnell The National Convention in Richmond, Virginia was a huge success and everyone had a great time. Brother Harry Sanders and crew did a fantastic job and all were well pleased. The National Chief of Staff, Brother David Gardner and I, along with the Chapter Manager, met with the staff of the Menger Hotel in San Antonio, Texas to continue the planning for the 93 rd Annual National Convention to be held in June All is in order and we expect to have a good turnout for the event. 5

6 I attended the Southern California Encampment at Pt Mugu, California in August. It was quite enjoyable and the hospitality was outstanding. It was well planned and the meeting associated with the encampment was well organized. The Camp Followers presented a program to all in attendance. In October the National Line met in Austin, Texas to go over all the things that were on our plates to be accomplished. An extremely productive two days. We met at the Scottish Rite Temple and they were very gracious in allowing us to use their facilities. A mini line meeting took place in November where items that were discussed at the October meeting were brought up to date. Only one missing was our National President, but it was not necessary that he be in attendance. Action items for each line officer were discussed and plans made. In December 2011, I attended the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Texas annual communication. Our National President was in attendance and was recognized and he presented a short pitch on National Sojourners. The Heroes of 76, composed of members from Ft Sam Houston, Anson Jones and General Worth Chapters, presented the Colors for the opening ceremony. Brother Keye Perry, N1VP, Brother David Gardner, National Heroes Chief of Staff, and I were part of the Color Guard. We were well received and recognized. Attendances at the Grand Lodges are an important event for all Sojourners. All should be attending these communications if at all possible to show the interest of National Sojourners and spread the word of our order. The Mid Year meeting, held in Tucson, Arizona was, in my opinion, one of the more productive meetings that have been held. The meetings that I attended were well run and produced direction and guidance. My oversight areas are: Area and Regional Representatives, Chapter Revitalization and Chartering, NASOCOCO, and the newly formed Website Ad Hoc Committee. I was a little disappointed in the attendance of the Area and Regional Representatives. They are the mainstay of the organization and are definitely the individuals who provide direction and influence on our Chapters. We are in need of replacements for Area and Regional Representatives as we are losing the services of those who have served in the past and we need the guidance provided by Area and Regional Representatives. If you are one who would step up to the plate and take on one of these positions, I am sure we can find a place for you. The Mid Year Reports were not as all inclusive as we would have liked them to be. The Chapter Revitalization and Chartering Committee did an outstanding job in presenting the data that was submitted to them. Although not as extensive as we would have liked, it at least showed where problems were and will assist the Area and Regional Representatives in their work. The NASOCOCO meeting was well attended but the President, Brother Bob Elert, who had experienced a heart attack, was not in attendance. In addition we lost the Vice President, Brother Al Boyd. Brother PNP Andrew J. McVeigh III was elected Chairman of the Board of Directors of NASOCOCO. It was pointed out that we need individuals who have knowledge of business to step forward and become a member of this organization. Website Ad Hoc Committee met and formulated plans for the website and drafted up a regulation for the establishment of the committee as a standing committee. This will be taken up at this convention. With the team members currently on board, you will see an improvement in the web site. Each member has a certain area of the site to monitor and make inputs. The overall web site management is in the capable hands of Brother Dave Alderfer. Attended the Conference of Grand Masters in Atlanta, Georgia in February. The line gave a briefing during the Fraternal Relations Breakfast which was well received. In fact it was said to be one of the better presentation given at the breakfast. A meeting of Grand Masters Chapter # 996 was also convened during the conference. Brother Al Boyd, Chapter President, had passed away and Brother Vanden Berghe, Sr., the Vice President presided with Brother Bill Turner serving as 6

7 Secretary, in the absence of Brother Joe Baker. Several new members were initiated into the Chapter. Had a good turnout for the session. Elections were held and Brother Vanden Burghe, Sr., was elected President and Bro Turner was elected Secretary. Attendance at the Demolay Breakfast, sponsored by the Shrine of North America was very enlightening as we heard an outstanding presentation by a young man who is currently heading up the International Order of Demolay. Met with the Host Hotel for the 2013 Mid-Winter and finalized most of all the details that we had not already finished and put into concrete. Had a slight scheduling problem that was pointed out, and thus the Mid-Winter dates were changed so that no conflict would occur. They meeting days are now the 7 th, 8 th and 9 th of January Mark your calendar accordingly. The hotel was very gracious in changing the dates and we did not incur any financial burden. Will probably have at least one more meeting before January Our National President appointed me to be the Chairman of the National Headquarters Relocation Team Short Term. There were twelve (12) members on the team and with the outstanding work of Past National President, Brother Harry Sanders and our National Secretary/Treasurer, Brother Nelson Newcombe, I consider the product produced to be one that will be ready and able, if and when we have to activate. A great deal of information was obtained by Brothers Sanders and Newcombe and incorporated into the enclosures of the plan. We came up with Plan Implementation items and Recommendations, which we consider to me the action items when initiated. In the plan, the Executive Summary pretty well covers what the team put together. Hopefully, we will not have to implement the plan, but we at least have, at minimum a starting point in which to begin. Thanks to all the team members. The final version of the plan is now on the website in the Members Only Dashboard, Reference Library. I recommend those who have access to the website go on line and review the document. Visited several Chapter meetings and participated in Scottish Rite, York Rite, Allied Masonic Degrees and Knight Mason s organizations. Will be attending the South Central Area Encampment in Corpus Christi, Texas, hosted by John J. Harris Chapter 397, in May where there should be a good attendance. Three of the National Line will be attending as will several of the National Heroes Line. I look forward to continuing my service to National Sojourners as your president in the coming year. I would ask that each one of you take an active part in your Chapter and Camp as well as continuing your support of the National Organization. Replace Yourself, the SEM fund needs your support and we need to continue to increase membership. NATIONAL FIRST VICE PRESIDENT, Keye E. Perry, Sr. Foremost, I would like to thank all Sojourners for your participation in our great order. No matter where you work within the organization, you have helped to Propel Sojourners Forward! Thank you also for giving me the opportunity to serve you as your National 1 st Vice President. Finally, a hearty thank you to those who welcomed Lady Becky and me into your Chapters and communities. My areas of oversight included the Publications Review Board, Incentives and Awards Committee and the Americanism Committee. The order is fortunate to have three very committed and involved chairmen heading up these activities. Each of them, Brothers Armand Cote, Carl Diamond and Ron Sortino, have done an outstanding job in leading and motivating their committees and I refer you to their reports that follow herein. 7

8 While we strive to present a capable and dignified Sojourner face to the Fraternity and beyond, many more people will come to judge us by our written materials. The Publications Review Board is tasked with making sure that any written matter carrying the names and logos of National Sojourners, Inc. and the Heroes of 76 presents our order in the most favorable manner possible. A hearty thank you, Brother Armand and the Board. Although dedication to the mission and brotherhood are primary motivators for most of us, we all like to be recognized for our successful efforts. Incentives and awards are some of the means by which that happens. While Brother Carl and his team might feel overworked in the months leading up to the Convention, he will be the first to tell you that too many of our chapters are letting that aspect slide. It takes just a little time to see that our brethren and ladies who labor in the quarries for our programs are recognized. Award nomination forms can be found in the members section on our website. Thanks and a tip o flight cap to Brother Carl and his crew. Americanism and patriotism are at the heart of what we are about as Sojourners. Our patriotic programs are one of the primary ways we promote Americanism, and uniformed Heroes are often what our non-sojourner brethren recall when we are mentioned. These programs need to continue, as they are our bread and butter. However, at the Americanism breakfast last year in Richmond, we were presented with some surprising information. Only 30-35% of adult Americans know how our system of government is supposed to function! Worse, only 18% of our high school seniors have similar knowledge! These young people are our future, yet they are being shortchanged in the very fundamentals of our history and Constitution! Our partnership with the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge and with the Military Order of the World Wars to organize, staff, fund and recruit students for our Youth Leadership Camps is essential to keeping this knowledge alive. To help fund these two programs, we have established the Spirit of America Education Foundation to solicit funds for students to attend. Each year, your National Line represents the order at the Conference of Grand Masters. There we present a program to a representative group of Grand Masters and elected Grand Officers on how National Sojourners and Heroes can support their respective Grand Lodge programs. One of the most well-received topics each year is the Youth Leadership program. A tip o the tricorn to Brother Ron and his team. Our National President appointed me to lead the Long Term Planning Team in regards to our possible move from Collingwood to a new home. Initially, we were faced with the prospect of making two moves, the first to move us quickly out of Collingwood and the second into a new permanent headquarters. The Short Term Team under National President Elect McConnell has recommended a single move, while some hard work by the Collingwood Board has lessened the possibility of a quick move. Your Long Term Team will build upon their work. The team is being manned and is developing a decision matrix to ensure that we identify all the factors that will impact a future move. Among the aspects to consider are timing, information technology requirements and capabilities, location near major transportation hubs, local chapter ability to provide an executive manager in whatever form is needed, employment criteria and requirements, and nearby lodging and dining options. Many other factors will have to be considered as well. All ideas are welcomed and will be considered. Once again, thank you for an interesting and exciting year. 8

9 NATIONAL SECOND VICE PRESIDENT, Merlen F. Howe Brother National Sojourners, serving our order as National Second Vice President is a privilege. I am appreciative and challenged to assimilate and inculcate the wisdom shared by so many of you and I eagerly await all that lies ahead. I am grateful that you re-elected me to the National Line. By working with and listening to others in the National Line, the National Heroes Line, the National Trustees, the Committee of 33, and some of the other national committees my awareness of the feelings and thoughts of National Sojourners is widened and deepened regarding current and possible future developments that I will better serve the interests of the whole membership. On Friday of the National Convention in Richmond I received two phone calls informing me two of my closest Masonic brothers had died. Immediately upon returning home I conducted the funerals for both. Later that week I installed the officers of two local lodges and was marshal at a third. The pace has slackened only slightly. The year has been a very busy although generally enjoyable. As District Deputy Grand Master, I visited the lodges in my district for nearly all stated meetings, degrees, funerals etc. Relieved of the office of DDGM in December, I became the Grand Chaplain for the Grand Lodge of Texas. As N2VP I related the purposes of National Sojourners in the lodges of my district and showed the DVD, The Story of National Sojourners at a meeting of the Masters, Past Masters and Secretaries Association. I was pleased to give all or part of the Toast to the Flag on numerous occasions in local lodges, York Rite and Scottish Rite bodies as requested. I was part of a color guard detail on a few occasions. Annually Anson Jones Chapter No. 507 performs the 31 st degree in Scottish Rite Valley of Austin in late summer or early fall. My position is degree master. During this year I have visited many National Sojourner chapters in Texas and one in New Mexico twice. What a great fellowship with the ladies and brothers I enjoyed. I was installed as Master of Texas Lodge of Research in March In order to fulfill my obligation in that lodge I flew home on Fridays of both the National Convention and the Mid-Winter Meeting. Missing the final sessions of those meetings was sad. In March 2012 I finished my obligation as Master of TLR and will miss no more meetings of National Sojourners. During my term TLR created a Guild of Masonic Studies enabling those who are interested to learn more of the history, philosophy and some of the allegorical teaching of our esoteric work. In late summer and early fall I did the Scottish Rite s Master Craftsman One. In late fall and early winter I completed Master Craftsman Two. The annual Executive Committee meeting was held in Austin, TX and was filled with good conversation, planning, and evaluations of existing efforts to promote the cause of patriotism throughout the nation. I participated in all activities. In December I attended the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Texas but because of my position as DDGM did not present the flags. Other National Sojourners including the President Elect, N1VP and the National Chief of Staff for the Heroes of 76 performed that task admirably. As Grand Chaplain I have traveled many miles around Texas for Grand Master s Conferences, banquets, moments of recognition by Masonic bodies, chartering one new lodge and ceremonies at Texas historical sites. In February I attended the Conference of Grand Masters in North America in Atlanta, GA. The opportunity to meet and discuss our order with the elected officers of the different grand 9

10 jurisdictions enhanced our image and stature. All members of the National Line were very visible and active during the conference. Within my local lodge I serve as chaplain and as part of the degree team of the lodges in my district. Often I give the lectures. Remaining active in our lodges continually reminds me of the basis of our fraternity and I encourage all National Sojourner to contribute to the activities and degrees of their local lodges. Between the date of submission of this report and the Annual Convention I expect to continue the activities I have been doing and will report significant events not alluded to in this report. NATIONAL THIRD VICE PRESIDENT, James N. Higdon First, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the membership for their trust in electing me to the National Line in Richmond, VA. This year has been a significant learning experience for me and I hope to build upon what I have learned this past year as I progress up the Line in the coming years. I hope that I will be able to continue to enjoy your trust and confidence, as well as your counsel and assistance in my role in the direction that National Sojourners takes in the coming year, as well as year. Participation at the National Line ExComm meeting in October in Austin, TX was especially beneficial to me since I became much more educated about the total operation of the National Sojourners, the problems facing us, as well as our role in the Collingwood story, both historical and financial. A full report on the status of all activities of National Sojourners up to that point in time was addressed, and I left with a better appreciation for the enormous tasks and responsibility our National office staff has, as well as that also imposed upon your National Line Officers. It was also very beneficial that we were not all work and did have an enjoyable dinner together where we each learned more about the others in attendance. In December 2012, I attended the Annual Communication of The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Texas, where I represented and served the MW Grand Master, T.E. Gene Carnes, a fellow member of Fort Sam Houston #17, as his Grand Orator, bringing my message to the Grand West, who reportedly received it well. I was also honored to be introduced by our National President as one of his/your National Officers during his opportunity to bring greetings. Barbara and I also had the great fortune to have been designated by our Grand Master to host our National President at his Grand Master s Banquet and ensured that he was introduced around on that occasion as well as at the hospitality room. I do believe that a grand time was had by all. The Mid-Year meeting in Tucson, AZ gave me an opportunity as the National Third Vice President to sit in on sessions that I had never had the opportunity to attend. I was able to interact with the two areas of responsibility assigned to me by the National President, that is, the Bridge of Light Committee, chaired by Brother Henry Kuhn, and the Education and Training Committee, chaired by Brother Rafael Rivas. The latter was unable to attend for health reasons, but he provided his report and supporting materials to his stand-in and his role was ably filled by Brother Joe Zito. The following week, January 25-29, I was privileged to attend the Grand Lodge of Colorado in Denver as the Personal Representative of Grand Master James Brumit of Texas, where I was not only allowed to bring greeting from him and the Grand Lodge of Texas, but also, wearing my neck jewel, brought them greetings from National Sojourners. While there I also visited with several brethren who were eligible for membership in our organization and delivered applications for membership to them. Unfortunately, one resided several hundred miles from either of the locations of 10

11 our Colorado Chapters, and the other resides in Montana where we do not have a chapter. That said, I feel sure that, in time, we will get both of these brothers into our fold. At the ExComm in Austin, I leaned that part of my new job was to attend the Conference of Grand Masters in North America. This year, it was held February in Atlanta, GA. The Georgia Masons did yeoman duty from the time we got off the airplane, reclaimed our luggage and boarded their bus to the conference hotel, to the time we again boarded their bus and were redelivered to the airport for our flights home. The team of Georgia Sojourners did an outstanding job with the Sojourner display, providing us with a centrally located base from which to meet and greet many of the Grand Masters and many Masons eligible for membership, several of whom either took petitions for their home Chapters or became members during the Grand Masters Chapter #996 meeting. The Fraternal Liaison Breakfast was well attended and each received an excellent PowerPoint presentation on who we are and what we do via joint effort of each of your National Line Officers. We received many positive reports about the presentation throughout the remainder of the Conference. Regrettably, however, Brother National Secretary, not completely mended yet, was unable to attend. I was excited to learn that Texas own R:W: Walter W. Rogers, Deputy Grand Master, was elected as the Chairman of the Conference for 2013 in Kansas City, KS/MO, a singular honor in such a very august group. We all attended the DeMolay Breakfast sponsored by the Shrine of North America where we heard the Grand Master of DeMolay, a fellow Texan, as well as the International Master Councilor, a very fine young man from San Diego, CA. A meeting of Grand Masters Chapter # 996 was also convened at the conclusion of the Conference, but Brother Perry and I were unable to attend due to the lengthy meeting of the Conference that day due to time constraints associated with our airline schedules, but we were advised that it was a very successful meeting chaired by M:W: Ray VanDenBergh. Since my installation in Richmond, I have, in addition to my visits to the two Grand Lodges mentioned above, have attended my Lodge, Chapter, Council and Commandery meetings where I serve as the elected Treasurer in each body. I attended the Grand Chapter and Grand Council sessions in Waco, Texas in October, where I serve as Chairman of the Grand Council Jurisprudence Committee. On December 10, I traveled to San Angelo, Texas to attend the annual meeting of Nazareth Tabernacle XXXIV, HRAKTP, where I was installed as the Very Eminent Preceptor. I have also attended meetings of my Allied Masonic Degrees and Order of Knight Masons Councils, Red Cross of Constantine Conclave, DeMolay Legion of Honor, as well as the Annual Conclave of The Grand Commandery Knights Templar of Texas. Over Easter, while Barbara and I were in Los Angeles visiting my son, his wife and our two grandsons there, I had the privilege of attending the West Coast Easter Observance of The Grand Encampment Knights Templar of the United States, where I sat/participated in the service with my good friends, Supreme Worthy President (SWP) of the Social Order of the Beauceant, Mrs. John (Mary) Brogan (from San Antonio Assembly #159) and her Sir Knight, as well as with Mrs. Joe (Katie) Ryland, Immediate Past SWP and wife of our PNP, Sir Knight and Past Commander Joe Ryland. Unfortunately, the visit with our PNP and Katie was much too brief. In May, all of your Texas-based National Line Officers were in attendance at the South Central Area Encampment in Corpus Christi, Texas, where all were active participants and where I participated in the Heroes Degree conferral by giving the Monitor Lecture. During this past year, I have also had the privilege of presenting the Toast to the Flag at the business meetings of Fort Sam Houston #17, as well as to my Rotary Club on several occasions. On April 27, I presented the Toast to the Flag to the over one hundred civilian and military lawyers attending the 10th Annual Biennial Institute on Texas Law for Military Attorneys at Fort Sam 11

12 Houston at which I was also a speaker on Family Law, before also leading the pledges to the U.S. and Texas Flags. Barbara and I look forward to attending the Annual National Convention in Burlington, VT and, once again, having the privilege of renewing many of your friendships and acquaintances. I also look forward to our serving on the National Line in a new capacity with new challenges and to offering my support to the organization and to our new National President, a fellow member and mentor in Fort Sam Houston #17, throughout the coming year. I challenge each of you take an active part in your Chapter and Camp, while also continuing your support of all of our National organization s programs and endeavors in promoting Patriotism throughout this Great Nation. NATIONAL SECRETARY/TREASURER, Nelson O. Newcombe We entered this year with a full staff, partially crippled, but still on the job. My breaking my left arm just before the Convention, plus physical Rehab and finally getting permission to drive again slowed things down for a few months. Then in December I slipped a disk in my back, and again drive myself for a few weeks. Janine and Heather kept the office functioning and up to date while I was slowed down. I regret not being able to be present at the Mid Winter Meeting and attending the Conference of Grand Secretaries. The financial statements and membership statistics at the end of this report are as of 30 April and hopefully they will show improvement by the end of June. Due to the current financial picture on the national level effected our investments, which in turn affected the amount of the MIP Dividend, and the amount accumulated by the SEM fund. Plus, redemptions of investments paying 6 8% lowered the returns, and not being able to invest at those rates and having to accept lower yields that became available. Sadly, this year Golden Gate #18 turned in its charter and became an In Memorial Chapter. We have several other chapters that are in trouble, due to the age of their membership and not gaining any new members. A bright note was the formation of Edwin Hickman Club #550 in Tennessee which will be chartered as a chapter in the near future. Also, there is the possibility of a new chapter in north western Arkansas. Again we saw an increase in the number of requests for ROTC Awards. However, at this time we are busy contacting the Chapters about letting the schools know that they will sponsor the award. The number of inquiries seems to be high this year. The Membership report reflects our gains and losses for this year. This has been a normal year for Heroes activities. As usual we received excellent cooperation from the National Commander, Andrew Hirst and from Bro. David Gardner is his planning for next year. NATIONAL HISTORIAN, S. Woodruff Bentley, Sr. There is now a National Historian s Corner on the NSI Web Site. The first two items to be placed on the site were a list of all known National Sojourner publications and records including those maintained at the National Headquarters. Some of the publications were published by NSI and some were published privately. If any member is aware of any other publications on NSI or the Heroes of 76, please advise the National Historian. The second item is a Summary History of National Sojourners. This had been initially started by Col. Beny Rosaler with the assistance of Col. LaVon 12

13 P. Linn, then National Historian. I have been adding material and will continue to add items as I do my research. Any member who has knowledge of an interesting item of Sojourner or Heroes history that he feels should be added, please forward it by to the National Historian at ciddad@aol.com. There have been two items published in the National Sojourner Magazine. The publications list was published in the March-April, 2012 issue. A History of the Royal Order of Barrow Wheelers was published in the May-June 2012 issue and will be added to the web site. Work continues on the Summary History as well as a project to write histories of the Sojourner Years and to be published on the NSI web site. The National Historian is also making an effort to compile the histories of chapters and Heroes Camps in the hands of members. These will be compiled into a future publication or placed on the NSI web site. I would also like to have the story behind the chapter and camp names or the biography if one of these is named for a specific individual. Another project is to pull together a complete listing of all chapters, both active and In Memoriam to place on the NSI Web Site. I have also had a number of inquiries from members about Sojourner or Heroes history which I have been able to answer. If any member has any questions or suggestions, please feel free to contact me. I want to express my appreciation to PNC and Past National Historian Clarence M. Nelson for his insight and assistance in organizing my work as the new National Historian. The condensed proceedings for convention were included in the July-August 2011 issue of the Sojourner. NATIONAL COMMANDER, Andrew Andy F. Hirst EIAR As I finish my tenure as National Commander several thoughts come to mind as I reflect on my journey through the line from the time Brother Hero Past National Commander David Warburton One More Step appointed me to the line. Like our immediate Past National Commander, Brother Hero Edward Nolte due to unforeseen circumstances I also became National Commander much sooner than planned. I thank each and every one for their dedication and commitment that they have given to have this convention be one that will be remembered for many years to come. As National Commander to assure that the tenets and principles we stand for will always be the top priority of our mission and after counseling with Past National Presidents, Past National Commanders, Sojourners and Heroes I had to make a few hard decisions for the good of the Order. It has been my honor and privilege to serve as your National Commander for the year In keeping within the motto of our National President, Brother Hero Past National Commander, William G. L. Turner, Aim High Make a Difference it was the goal for your National Line Hero Officers to raise $2,500 for the SEM FUND. This goal was met plus. I personally thank each of the Brethren who took the time to mail me a check or donated money for this endeavor. A special thank you to those who added the extra dollars that your Heroes Line Officers might reach this goal. You know who you are. I signed two camp Charters there-by revitalizing two inactive Camps. Staying within the guide lines of the Official Manual Heroes of 76, Chapter, 5 Paragraph 11, I granted three waivers for unusual circumstances in reference to Heroes of 76 Degrees. My Lady Dorothy and I extend a sincere thank you to the various chapter and encampments we had the privilege to attend. The courtesies and Honors extended to us will forever be fond memories. It is only through the support and dedication of the Brethren 13

14 and Chapters such as yourselves that the year has been a success. I definitely feel that as I relinquish the power of leadership to a new National Commander and return to the ranks as a worker and supporter, your National Heroes Line Officers as a team are leaving the organization a little stronger and viable than when we started. NATIONAL TRUSTEES, Elliott B. Samuels, Chairman This year began with the resignation of Brother Joseph W. Illes, Vice Chairman of the Board for medical reasons. Unfortunately he passed away shortly thereafter. The National President appointed Brother E. Thomas Kuhn, Jr. as his interim replacement. Brother Joseph H. Baker, Jr. was elected as Vice Chairman of the Board at the Mid-Winter Meeting held in Tucson Arizona in January During the reporting period our organization continued to experience less than expected returns on our investments. Investment opportunities which in the past yielded reasonable revenue were no longer available at acceptable rates or terms. As a consequence of this unfortunate turns of affairs, interest distribution of Trust Funds to Chapters will be reduced from previous years. The distribution authorized for this year will be $4.85 (Full Share) and $2.42 (One Half Share). The future is unclear, however the Investment criteria established in National Regulations provides for relatively low risk investments. There continues to be few opportunities, at present, to find viable long term products which will increase our revenues. In this connection the National Secretary/Treasurer has proposed an emergency Resolution for consideration to increase operating funds. For some time your Board of Trustees has not been able to fund necessary items from the available revenue. This includes even modest salary increases for our dedicated Staff. We need approval of this resolution. It provides for a modest increase in the cost of an initial MIP and for some administrative actions. Resolution which was tabled at the 91 st Convention has been withdrawn. This Resolution was intended to revise the Investment strategy contained in National Regulations. The National President was notified on February 22, 2012 that CLMA could no longer provide office space, to NSI, after June 2012 on an annual lease, except on a month to month basis, for such time as may be practicable. The National President has appointed Committees to develop options for our future: One consideration is for Short Term the other is for Long Term. No decision has been reached at the time of this report, however the Memorandum of Understanding, dated January 11, 2011, which was executed between CLMA and the Board of Trustees contains for the basis for the rental agreement between NSI and CLMA. We expect the contract conditions included in this document will continue in full force and effect regardless of the eventual location. The ultimate outcome of this course of events is unclear and to speculate would be an exercise in futility. National Regulation has been amended to include a change in the duties of the Board of Trustees. Members of the Board of Trustees will also serve as the Board of Directors of NSI s newly constituted entity, Spirit of America Education Foundation. The officers elected are Brother Elliott B. Samuels, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Brother Joseph H. Baker, Jr., Vice President, Brother Wayne I. Smith, Secretary/Treasurer and Brother Nelson O. Newcombe, Assistant Secretary/Treasurer and Chief Operating Officer (COO). IRS approval has been solicited to support the official granting of our request for recognition as a organization. 14

15 COMMITTEE OF 33, Edward W. Nolte, Chairman The Committee of 33 leadership changed in The Committee Chairman, Brother Robert Bob Elert, became an Emeritus Member and stepped down as Chairman. The former Vice Chairman, Edward Nolte, was subsequently elected Chairman by the Committee membership. Brother Martin Marty Schebel replaced Brother Nolte and was elected Vice Chairman. Brother Justin Rip Van Kleeck, resigned as Secretary, and Brother John JJ Brown was elected to that position. As a result of the change in leadership, and significant change is occurring in how the Committee of 33 functions. In the past, each Task Group was assigned a task and worked independently of the other task groups. Consequently, each member only saw one task, if that, and did not have insight into all tasks. The revised approach is that each member of the Committee of 33 will see and have the opportunity to make an input on each task. In addition, each task response has an initial response, a revised position, and a final position as the members cross-flow information within the Committee. Each member sees each task and each member is expected to work each task. Thus, the solutions and recommendations will truly be Committee of 33 positions, rather than the position of a single Task Group. The Committee of 33 has operated at a total strength of 31 members for most of the year. This is due to Brother James Higdon being elected to the National Line and being required to resign from the Committee of 33. In addition, M.W.B Alister Boyd passed away after a lengthy illness. Brother President William Turner appointed Ronald Stites as a backfill for one of the vacancies. More recently Brother Russell Hain also resigned due to health reasons. The Committee of 33 will require the addition of two extra members to the normal 11-member election each year for a 3-year term. For its work, the Committee of 33 received three taskers from Brother William Turner at the Tucson Mid-Winter Meeting in January The first tasker, Task C is titled National Trustees Qualifications. It requests the Committee of 33 to recommend a solution, which would Establish a comprehensive set of qualifications for a member to run for the office of National Trustee. The National Line and Committee of 33 have personnel requirements for election or appointment. To be elected to the National Line, an individual must have 10 years of continuous NSI membership, served honorably as Chapter, President and Camp Commander, served two years on a National Committee, or A/R Rep, attended 3 ANCs and 3 MWMs, demonstrated leadership, active membership status, and be prepared for financial burden and travel, and receive a qualified report from the Nominating Committee. Committee of 33 requires noteworthy depth of Sojourners knowledge, dedication to the Order, and demonstrated performance as A/R Rep or National-level standing committee, and experience as Chapter President. The current requirement for a National Trustee is to be a Sojourner of great experience at the national level who is particularly knowledgeable in matters of management, finance, and budget no leadership, no prior offices, no years of membership/performance, no prior committees, and no Masonic requirements. In short, Should there be more stringent requirements, and if so, what should they be? The second tasker, Task C , is titled National Sojourners Line Officer Qualifications. It requests the Committee of 33 to review the qualifications for the National Line, which were established several years ago based on an emergent requirement. We have had some problems in the meantime and had to suspend the National Regulations. The current requirement to be elected to the National Advancing Line are as follows: Individual must have 10 years of 15

16 continuous NSI membership, served honorably as Chapter President and Camp Commander, served two years on a National Committee or A/R Rep, attended 3 ANCs and 3 MWMs, demonstrated leadership, active membership status, and be prepared for financial burden and travel, and receive a qualified report from the Nominating Committee. In short, revisit the qualifications to run for the National Sojourners Line to ensure they are practical and reasonable, or should they be modified. If changes are warranted, be specific in your recommendation? The third tasker, Task C , is titled Task # C : NASOCOCO vs Time and Place Committee. Should we replace NASOCOCO with a Time-and-Place Committee and dispense with the separate NASOCOCO. Consider history in researching with such numeraries as Chuck Wallens, Nellie Newcombe, Chuck Folsom, Andrew McVeigh, Ben Yudesis, etc., to ensure a full, comprehensive understanding is known before making recommendation. Focus on financial obligations/commitments that might be at issue for both NASOCOCO and Natl Sojourners. In short, should we replace NASOCOCO with a Time-and-Place Committee and dispense with the separate NASOCOCO? The Committee of 33 will recommend solutions to each of these three taskers to the National President at the Annual National Convention (ANC) in Burlington, VT in June In addition, the Committee of 33 received four taskers from Brother President-elect, James Bob McConnell. These taskers will be assigned at the ANC and recommended positions delivered at the Mid-Winter Meeting in January 2013 to avoid impeding the work we are already finalizing. These taskers and their titles are as follows: C : Goal: To increase attendance at the MWM and ANC. Look into how we as an organization can increase attendance at the Mid-Winter Meeting and Annual National Convention. What can the Chapters do to help in providing information to the members about attending these functions. What possible incentives could be offered to increase attendance. What steps can be taken to increase the attendance at the Mid-Winter Meeting and the Annual National Conventions. Would it be feasible to provide incentives to the membership to attend? If so, what would the incentives be that would increase attendance at these functions, and would they impact on funding for the event. C : Goal: The inclusion of equivalent civilian grades as members who have served in the Department of Defense. Consider the fact that they have served the country faithfully but were not in uniform. They would be equivalent grades to the existing membership requirements for military personnel. Many Masons have served faithfully in the Department of Defense in a civilian capacity. Due to being considered non-military, they can become members only as Honorary. What would the impact be if membership was offered to these Masons who served in the equivalent grade of existing membership qualification? What would be required if this were to come about? C : Goal: Enhance relationship with CLMA. The relationship with CLMA is at minimum strained. The financial situation for the ALC looming over their heads and the fact that they are trying to obtain funding from the National Sojourners membership has caused the formally friendly relationship to become strained. We need a way to enhance this relationship in a nonfinancial manner. How can we do this? C : Goal: To determine the widest concurrence on number of desired days for the MWM and ANC. A) Survey and determine interest in having some evening committee meetings to de-conflict agenda and/or shorten the number of days. B) Survey and advise the National Line on members' desire for a period of time during the ANC to allow all to engage in local tours/events, versus a shorter ANC. C) Provide recommendations to the NP and National Line during the January 2013 Mid-Winter Meeting. 16