OCTOBER COVER STORY

Benefactor Award
For our support of youth, the Grand Encampment received the Benefactor Award at the DeMolay International Session in St. Louis, Missouri. The inscription reads: "DeMolay International hereby recognizes Grand Encampment of Knights Templar, U.S.A., as one who supports and champions the Order of DeMolay through financial contributions as well as fraternal support and cooperation. Keith K. Klein, Grand Master (2006-2007)." Receiving the award for Grand Encampment was Sir Knight William Howard Koon II, then Deputy Grand Master. Other officers in attendance were Sir Knights David Dixon Goodwin, then Grand Generalissimo, and Lawrence Eugene Tucker, Grand Recorder.

This WEBSITE is published monthly as an official publication of the
Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America.
Sid Cornelius Dorris III, Right Eminent Grand Generalissimo and Publisher,
Lawrence E. Tucker, Grand Recorder and Editor
5909 West Loop South, Suite 495, Bellaire, TX 77401-2402
(713) 349-8700 (telephone), (713) 349-8710 (facsimile)
E-mail: letucker@sbcglobal.net
Joan B. Morton Assistant Editor
Mail materials and correspondence, to:
Editor, Grand Encampment of Knights Templar
Post Office Box 478448, Chicago, IL 60647-8448
phone and fax: (773) 489-0689
Material for the Grand Commanderies' two-page supplements is to be directed to the respective Supplement editors.
Supplement Editors are encouraged to create their own sites or submit "NEWS" to kych52va@aol.com
Address corrections from members are to be sent to the local Recorders LISTED HERE
OCTOBER: JUST SCAN DOWN or "click" on the LINKS BELOW to view articles
There are some changes at the Grand Encampment.
Be sure to inform yourselves by reading page 2 (below) and page 5 [.pdf].
Best wishes to Sir Knight Richard Burditt Baldwin and to all the officers, old and new, of the Grand Encampment.
This month the 40th Annual Voluntary Campaign for the Knights Templar Eye Foundation begins. Your General Chairman, Sir Knight T. Jeffery Conquest, speaks for the first time and with his enthusiasm, we will look forward to his messages throughout the Campaign!
Of course, as always, we have great stories, articles and news items for your enjoyment!

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Membership Jewel, October Recipients
IN MEMORIAM
40th Voluntary Campaign Knight Templar Eye Foundation
"On the Masonic Newsfront"
Brother John Elway Denver Bronco-Hall of Fame Quarterback
Brother Vincent Lopez, Anatomy of a Band Leader, Part III, Part I ~ Part II

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August 28, 2007
Dear Sir Knights:
It is with a great deal of sadness that I must resign the office of Grand Master due to health reasons.
I thank each of you who have made my Templar journey worthwhile and enjoyable. I will miss being with you very much and will remember you always.
I wish for each of you all the best that life may bring: good health, happiness, and success!
May Almighty GOD continue to bless you, your families, our great Templar Fraternity, and the United States of America!

Sincerely and Fraternally

Sir Knight Richard Burditt Baldwin, GCT
Grand Master
2006 - 2007TOP

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RECIPIENTS OF THE GRAND ENCAMPMENT MEMBERSHIP JEWEL

607. Jean L. Davis, Hope Commandery No. 26, Bridgeport,
        OH. 6-27-2007.
608. Michael F. Snively, Hope Commandery No. 26,
        Bridgeport, OH. 6-27-2007.
609. Bobby Lee Laws, Elk City Commandery No. 22, Elk
        City, OK. 7-3-2007.
610. James C. Taylor, Elk City Commandery No. 22, Elk
        City, OK. 7-3-2007.
611. Ronald Keith Bess, Sr., Middletown Com:ri1andery No.
        71, Middletown, OH. 7-12-2007.
612. Daniel A. Tutt, Middletown Commandery No. 71,
        Middletown, OH. 7-12-2007.
613. - 614. Randy M. Zaerr, Quincy CommMdery No. 77, Quincy, IL.
        7-16-2007. (jewel and 1 bronze cluster)
615. Charles Michael Mills, Aurora Commandery No. 22, Yorkville, IL.
        7-16-2007. (bronze cluster)
616. - 617. Dannie L. Cogley, Beaver Valley Commandery No. 84, Beaver,
        PA. 7-23-2007. (jewel and 2 bronze clusters)
618. - 619. Ronnie Hedge, Ivanhoe Commandery No. 18, Jonesboro, AR.
        8-2-2007. (jewel and 1 bronze cluster)

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IN MEMORIAM
Apologies to Sir Knight Howard Taft Burgess, Jr., Recorder of Anderson Commandery No. 11" South Carolina, and to all the Sir Knighits and friends who cherish the memory of Sir Knight Donnie Edsel Richey, Past Grand Commander of South Carolina, 2003. In the August 2007 issue, the third listing in the "In Memoriam" section on page 8 was in error. Recorder Burgess was listed instead of Sir Knight Richey. Below is the correct information for Sir Knight Richey. The James E. MathilJson listing is also corrected and completed. I deeply regret these errors!
Joan B. Morton, Editorial

Donnie Edsel Richey
South Carolina .
Grand Commander-2003
Born: August 22, 1927
Died: May 8, 2007

State corrected and information completed:
James E. Mathieson
Nevada
Grand Generalissimo-2007
Born: March 4, 1929
Died: May 18, 2007

WeIland S. Horn
Vermont
Grand Commander-1968
Born: February 6, 1915
Died: July 19, 2007

George Derrick Stevens Virginia
Grand Commander-1992
Born: July 9, 1914
Died: July 21, 2007

Chester H. Hazen
Missouri
Grand Commander-1987
Born: June 30, 1923
Died: August 29, 2007

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Knights Templar Eye Foundation, Inc.
1000 East State Parkway, Suite I
Schaumburg, IL 60173-2460
Phone: (847) 490-3838
Fax: (847) 490-3777
www.knightstemplar.org/ktef
The 40th Annual Voluntary Campaign
October 1, 2007 to Aptil 30, 2008
Contributions, for the Vo1untary Campaign are now being accepted at:
Knights Templar Eye Foundation, Inc.
1000 East State Parkway, Suite I
Schaumburg, IL 60173-2460


A Message from Sir Knight T. Jeffery Conquest, KCT
General Chairman of the 40th Annual Campaign for the KTEF,
Trustee of the Board of the KTEF, and P.G.C. of Indiana
Greetings, Sir Knights:
I am honored to be your new Voluntary Campaign Chairman. Not only am I inexperienced with this position, but I am, also, relatively new as a Trustee of the Knights Templar Eye Foundation, so please bear with me as I become better acquainted with the Foundation and the Campaign. Hopefully, through my enthusiasm and your benevolence, we will have a successful Campaign.
There are several ways in which you and your Commandery can help support our philanthropy including endowments, wills, and gifts. You can, also, contribute by shopping at our new on-line shopping mall at ktef.fundlinkllc.com. Forms for your donations can be found at www.knightstemplar.org/ktef/support.htm. Or if you wish to become a Permanent Fund Donor, visit www.knightstemplar.org/ktef/perm_donor.html. If you don't have a computer or internet access, please call the KTEF office at (847) 490-3838, and someone there will be happy to assist you.
I look forward to working with each of you in this great endeavor of ours, aiding those with sight deficiencies and providing funds for research. If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to contact myself or the KTEF office.

T. Jeffery Conquest, P.G.C.
General Chairman of the Campaign
Trustee of the Board of KTEF
Sir Knight Conquest resides at 1903 Somersworth Drive, San Jose, CA 95124.

NEW CONTRIBUTORS TO KTEF CLUBS
Grand Master's Club
No. 5,128-Richard E. Mohs (NM)
No. 5,129-Dan L. Mayer (LA)
No. 5,130-Timothy C. Forche (MI)
No. 5,131-Bobby G. Watts (KY)
No. 5,132-Janice Palm (OH)
No. 5,133-David Neal Kelley (TX)

Grand Commander's Club
No. l02,632-Samuel Wayne Lipe (NC)
No. l02,633-Warren J. Lotz (OR)

How to join the Grand Commander's or Grand Master's clubs: Any individual may send a check in the amount of $100 or more specified for the purpose of beginning a Grand Commander's Club membership and made payable to the Knights Templar Eye Foundation. This initial contribution will begin your Grand Commander's Club membership. In addition, members of the Grand Commander's Club pledge to make annual contributions of $100 or more. Once contributions total $1,000, the individual is enrolled in the' Grand Master's Club. Membership is open to individuals only, and there is Commandery credit given for participation. Information is available from: Knights Templar Eye Foundation, Inc; 1000 'East State Parkway, Suite I; Schaumburg; IL 60173-2460. The phone number is: (847) 490-3838. The fax number is: (847) 490-3777.

Contributor to the 33º Club
KTEF Office Staff (IL)
in honor of Marvin L. Selock, 33º

Words of Gratitude from KTEF Recipients...

I would like to thank you for your financial assistance. Knowing that there are people like you who help people like me to keep from going blind because they don't have insurance is something I will never forget. Thank you, and God bless you all! Arab, Alabama

This is to say to all of you who made it possible for my eye surgeries: I can't thank you enough! Thank God for people like you who care about others. Your kindness will never be forgotten. Cushing, Texas

I want to give an update on my vision since your organization. helped me out. I'm seeing 20/20 for distance and just wear glasses with bifocals for reading. I couldn't have gotten this far without your help. Thank you! Way mart, Pennsylvania

God is good, and I am thankful; He sent you to help me. I can see much better; I can read again, and I can see to drive. Thanks for caring about me. Stillwater, Oklahoma

My recovery has been really good, and my vision has improved greatly. I would like to thank you for all your much needed help. Princeton, Iowa

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Sir Knight James McCrorry Willson, Jr., R.E.
Grand Treasurer of the Grand Encampment,
Awarded Grand Cross of the Court of Honour
by Supreme Council 33º,A.&A.S.R., S.J.

Sir Knight Willson, who is the R.E. Grand Treasurer of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the U.S.A., was honored by the Supreme Council 33º of the Scottish Rite for the Southern Jurisdiction with its highest honor. The Grand Cross of the Court of Honour was awarded to Sir Knight Willson at the biennial session of the Scottish Rite held in Washington, D.C., on August 28, 2007. There are fewer than 60 living recipients of this decoration out of nearly 400,000 members in the Southern Jurisdiction. The recipient of the Grand Cross of Honour wears a white 33º cap that is surrounded by a band of dark blue velvet bordered in gold. The front of the cap is adorned with the gold Teutonic cross of the Grand Cross. We congratulate Sir Knight Willson on this recognition of his many years of dedicated service to Freemasonry, Templary, and the Scottish Rite.

Connecticut Commandery Drill Team Recognized at Annual Conclave

Special recognition was given the Connecticut Drill Team by then Grand Commander William L. Miller II at the Annual Conclave of the Grand Commandery of Connecticut. The team has worked hard to bring the Grand Commandery into the limelight of national Templary with their participation in competitions at the Triennial in Houston and the Annual Conclave of New York State. After a decade of work, they are also officially organized under approved bylaws.On page 10 receiving the team award are, left to right: Sir Knights William Mackey, Edward Schoenrock, Leonard Bucher, Drill Captain, Charles McCollum, Drill Master, Robert DiPasquale (center), P.G.C. Edward Ham, and Charles O'Neill. (submitted by Sir Knight Robert D. Sherrick, Connecticut Supplement editor)

Angel of Shavano Encampment Completed in Colorado
The Blanchard Ranch, located in the foothills of the Shavano Mountain range near Salida, Colorado, was the scene of a successfully completed Conclave on July 21, 2007, with all the Orders conferred in the great outdoors and with 125 in attendance. There were 14 men newly Knighted during the Order of the Temple presented by Denver-Colorado Commandery No. 1. The Sir Knights from Delta and Montrose/Ouray Commanderies conferred the Order of the Red Cross while members of Coronal-Ascalon Commandery No. 31 moved the candidates through the Mediterranean Pass and the Order of Malta. All work was done under bright sunny skies and with cordless mikes, so every word was heard by all. Colorado's members thank the "crew" from Salida Commandery who were host in providing the tents, costumes, cooking facilities, and other conveniences. Under the direction of Sir Knights Larry Blanchard, David Salberg, Joe Shirk, Jim Weeks, and other recruited volunteers.

The new Knights (plus the Grand Commander) are: front row: Patrick Leete, Denver No.1; Ted Garcia, Greeley; George Knox, Canon City; Eddie Ware, Gunnison; and Brad Wenma, Montrose; back row: Cullen Honeycutt, Ft. Collins; Charles Smith, Denver; Gerald Heagney, Grand Commander; Bert Shaffe, Denver, Bob Hatton, Montrose; Don French, Delta; Ed Shober, Leadville; Frank Ranieri, Denver; Jaymie Vaghn, Denver; and Oliver Gerbitz.
(submitted by Sir Knight Leon Sonksen,Colorado Supplement editor)

Nevada York Rite Summer Festival in Las Vegas-June 23 and 30
The festival was the culmination of hard work by Melita Commandery No.9 and Malta Commandery No.3. On June 23 the Capitular degrees and Cryptic degrees were conferred by Keystone No.6 and Zabud No. 10 for 16 Master Masons, and on June 30 the Chivalric Orders were conferred by Malta No.3 and Melita No.9 on 15, creating 15 new Sir Knights.

Craig Phillips, Executive Officer for DeMolay in the state of Nevada, participated in all of the degrees for this group. These new members are unique in that the average age is 30 and they probably have the youngest Past Master Councilor, who at the age of 18 has his Master Mason, 32º, York Rite degrees and is a Noble of the Zelzah Mystic, Shrine. Sir Knight Carl "Bud" Banks, Membership Committee, of the Knights Templar of Nevada, writes that Phillips is "an inspiration for every DeMolay and every Master Mason seeking further light in Masonry." Sir Knight Banks also gives special recognition to: Zelzah Shrine for hosting a dinner on the evening of June 30 and tothe ladies of the Social Order of the Beauceant for providing lunch on June 23.

In the picture above is the 2007 York Rite Class on June 30, 2007.
The class was dedicated to the memory of Sir Knight James E. Mathieson, Past Generalissimo,
and Sir Knight Mathieson's Lady Doris was present to speak to the class and present them with a memento lapel pin.

Above: Mrs. James E. Mathieson and Brother Mike Reinhardt, Secretary,
who is credited with being principally responsible for reinstituting the Las Vegas Summer Festival.


Above are some of the new Sir Knights.

July 3, 2007-The Bull Ring

23 Nevada Brothers attended "The Bullring" races at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. W.M. Beggs reported that the Lodge's concession booth yielded three times the amount of money it had produced in the past! Above are former Governor and Senator, Brother Richard Bryan, and Brother John Harney.

York Rite Ladies Help 250 Abused and Needy Children
by Mrs. Sally Padron

The York Rite ladies of Florida worked all year sewing and purchasing new clothing for approximately 250 abused and needy children. What began with 12 kids and a few vans has grown into what will soon be a six route Bus Ministry that heads out on Saturday mornings to collect an estimated 250 Pre-K through 12th grade participants in the Central Florida area, and it's growing.
These children are in great need, both spiritually and materially. They are among the poorest of the poor. Many have suffered much mental abuse and are in great need of all aspects of care.
The Orlando Children's Church reaches out to these children daily and understands them-who they are and all that they need. Orlando Children's Church is a Central Florida nonprofit, 501c3, Christian outreach ministry that was founded by Peter and Isabel O'driscoll in September 2002, and has the support of many faithful individuals who share their vision of what God wants for His children.
The new clothing and shoes that have been sewn and purchased is the project of the wives of the Florida York Rite Masons, headed up by Mrs. Sally Padron of Sebring, Florida. During the week, OCC leadership visit neighborhoods throughout Central Florida seeking out children in need. These children are invited to attend "Saturday Church."
Saturday Church is presently hosted by First Baptist Church Maitland. Loaded buses begin arriving at 9:30 A.M., and the children are separated by age group and greeted by enthusiastic volunteers who engage the 'kids in outdoor recreation activities while they wait for all of the buses to arrive. Around 9:50 A.M. each child joins his or her class at assigned picnic tables where they enjoy a breakfast donated by Maitland and Winter Park area McDonalds. Once bellies are full and attendance is taken, teachers and activity leaders present spiritual food to the hungry hearts that are eager to learn more about God, His love for them and His purpose and plan for their lives. Buses then load and depart at 11:30 A.M. returning the kids to their homes.
Parents are also welcome to attend OCC and participate in our adult Bible studies. OCC is supported by the generous donations of churches, community businesses, families, and individuals. Then he said to them: "Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me, welcomes the one who sent me." (Luke 9:48)
In the picture above, the ladies are shown in a room filled with items for the children. Peter O'driscoll is in the front row right with Sally Padron to his right. (photo by Heather Meador and article submitted by James D. Dickenson)

Celebration of Paradise Assembly No. 250, S.O.O.B. of California
Paradise Assembly No. 250, S.O.O.B., had many reasons to celebrate in July! This was their 29th anniversary and the 92nd birthday of Mrs. Allen O'Connell. It was also a time to congratulate and honor Mrs. Richard Kelly"Chairman of the Supreme Benevolent Committee, and to welcome a new dual member, Mrs. Robert Coe (P.P. of Santa Ana Assembly No. 61).
It was still another honor when Worthy President Mrs. Charles Trullinger presented Mrs. Richard Kelly with her 25-year membership card for her years of service to the Social Order of the Beauceant. There was a momentous celebration with a delicious luncheon enjoyed by all at the Red Bluff Masonic Hall.

Above left: far left: Mrs. Allen O'Connell (birthday lady) and members of Paradise Assembly in between with new dual member;Mrs. Coe (3rd from left) and Mrs. Richard Kelly, Chairman of Supreme Benevolent Committee (far right). Above right: Mrs. Charles Trullinger, Worthy President, presenting Mrs. Richard Kelly, P.P. of Santa Ana, with her 25-year membership card.

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Mrs. Jeanette Rife of Texas Installed Supreme Worthy President, S.O.O.B.

Mrs. Jeanette Rife was installed Supreme Worthy President of the Social Order of the Beauceant on September 28, 2007, closing the 87th Annual Supreme Assembly held in Topeka, Kansas. Mrs. Rife will preside at the 88th Annual Supreme Assembly, September 21-26,2008, which will be held in Tampa, Florida.
Mrs. Jeanette Rife was born in Texarkana, Texas, was raised in Groves, Texas, and has resided in Nederland, Texas, since 1962. Her father, Ralph Edward Merchant, was a member of Port Neches Lodge No. 1163, Beaumont Commandery No. 38, DeQuincy Chapter No. 79, Louisiana, El Mina Shrine, Galveston, Texas, and Groves No. 953 O.E.S. Her grandfather, William T. Merchant, was Worshipful Master of Border Lodge No. 672 in 1932-1933, Thrice Illustrious Master of B. T. Estes Council NQ. 198 in 1925-1926, High Priest of B. T. Estes Chapter No. 263, RAM., in 1928-1929, Eminent Commander of Texarkana Commandery No. 64 in 1927. He was, also, a member of Border No. 211, O.E.S., and on the Advisory Board, Border Chapter, Order of the DeMolay, Tri-State Lodge No. 160, and Hella Shrine of Dallas, Texas.
A member of the Beauceant since 1983, Mrs. Rife was initiated in Port Arthur Assembly No. 160 during the official visit of S.W.P. Mrs. Charles D. Hobby. She served as President in 1991, held several offices and served on several committees, and was Recorder until December 2006. She served Supreme Assembly on Supreme Mileage 1994 and Supreme Jewelry Committee 2003.
Mrs. Rife is, also, an active member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Daughters of the Nile, Daughters of the American Revolution, and Wesley United Methodist Church serving on the Administrative Board, and as Worship Chairman, Liturgist, and Choir member. She served as Worthy Matron of Groves Chapter No. 953 in 1987-1988 and Nederland Chapter No. 1079 in 2003-2004. She was Queen of Ramallah Temple No. 89, Daughters of the Nile, in Galveston, Texas, in 1989-1990. She served as Board Member for the Rainbow for Girls Assembly in Port Neches, Texas, in 1987-1988 and is a Past President of Casbin Grotto Auxiliary.
She was employed by Ameripol Synpol Employees Credit Union as a Loan Officer for 26 years. After retirement she purchased a Marine Construction Company which repairs oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico, in which she operated for 6 years. She graduated from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas, as a Licensed Vocational Nurse and enjoys working as the nurse for the Southeast District at the Methodist Youth Camp in Lakeview, Texas, during the summer months.
Mrs. Rife has 3 children; daughter Renona Rae Rife (Steve) Williams, sons Ronald Ray (Rhonda) Rife, Jr., and Rodney Reagan (Andrea) Rife. She has 5 grandchildren; Robert Morgan, Brittney Litchfield, Taylor Rife, Carter Rife; and Reagan Renee Rife. She, also, has 2 great grandchildren; Natalie Morgan and Baylor Litchfield.
Mrs. Rife is looking forward to her visits to the Assemblies and the hugs from her Beauceant Sisters. Mrs. Rife has requested continued support to the Knights Templar Eye Foundation from the Beauceant Assemblies across the country. Her motto is "United We Stand With God"

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Annual Bingo-Fun Day for Dallas No. 63, S.O.O.B.

Mrs. Edgar Stanley, third from right, Worthy President of Dallas Assembly No. 63, Dallas, Texas, Social Order of the Beauceant, is pictured with many officers and members of the Assembly behind gift tables. This summer Dallas Assembly No. 63 enjoyed preparing gift tables and refreshments for their yearly Bingo Social held for the residents of the Texas Masonic Retirement Center in Arlington, Texas. The Fun Day was enjoyed by all.

HOMECOMING OF SUPREME WORTHY PRESIDENT, S.O.O.B.
June 15-17 GALA EVENT held in Westminster, Maryland

The Homecoming of Mrs. David E. Alcon, Supreme Worthy President of the Social Order of the Beauceant (2006-2007) was well attended in Westminster, Maryland. An indoor picnic and Cavalcade of Aprons (a fun symbol of Mrs. Alcon) was held Friday evening, and on Saturday a bus trip was taken to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and included a tour of the battle field, the Friend to Friend Masonic Monument, and a visit to Boyd's Bear Country. The Homecoming Banquet was Saturday evening with a hundred present from as far away as Texas and Kansas, and the weekend concluded with a Sunday Worship Service and brunch by the Omelette Queen.

Directly above: Supreme officers in attendance, left to right, front: Mrs. Jack L. Edwards, S.W. Oracle; Mrs. David E. Alcon, S.W. President and.P.P. of Westminster No. 245; Mrs. Jeanette Rife, S.W. 1st Vice President; second row: Mrs. Duncan C. Watson, S.W. Preceptress; Mrs. John A. Kleinfelder, S.W. 2nd Vice President.

Above: members of Elizabethtown Assembly No. 265 with Mrs. Alcon (front with Sir Knight David) and their Sir Knights.

Above are the members of Westminster Assembly No. 245. The pictures were taken by and the article submitted by Mrs. Leslie Loomis, P.P. of Elizabethtown Assembly No. 265 and the Omelette Queen.

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Brother John Elway:
Denver Bronco-Hall of Fame Quarterback
by Dr. Ivan M. Tribe, KCT, KYCH, 33°
      During the first half of the twentieth century, the number of Masonry's famous figures from the world of athletics were many and numerous. With the passage of time and membership declines in recent decades, the number has declined. In the realm of football, such names as Red Grange, Don Hutson, and Glenn "Pop" Warner highlighted Brother Jerry Erikson's list of "Fraternal Footballers." In the immediate past generation, one gridiron name that stands out is Denver Bronco quarterback, Brother John Elway, who earned his way into the National Football League Hall of Fame during a professional career that extended from 1983 through 199B.
      John Albert Elway, Jr., was born in Port Angeles, Washington, on June 28, 1960, the son of a football coach. One could almost say that the game was in his blood. A grandfather had once played on a team that had opposed the Carlisle Indians and Jim Thorpe. His father had been a quarterback at Washington State until injuries curtailed his playing career. In addition to the senior Elway known as "Jack," the family included mother Janet and two sisters, Lee Ann who was older and Jana who was John's twin (deceased in 2002). The family lived at various locales in Washington and Montana, as Jack Elway's coaching positions changed. About the time John entered high school, the father became head coach at Cal State Northridge (later at San Jose State), and the family settled in Granada Hills, California, which had become known for a stellar high school football program. As a quarterback at Granada Hills High, the teenage John compiled a record that included 5,711 yards passing for some 49 touchdowns. In addition to being academically strong, John excelled in basketball and baseball and was drafted by the Kansas City Royals. Nonetheless, he opted for college, choosing Stanford over both Southern California and his father's San Jose State. Presumably, he chose Stanford because of their passing game, and he could also play baseball there.

      Leland Stanford, Jr. University was hardly a super team during John Elway's college days, but he nonetheless proved himself to be an outstanding competitor and a great quarterback. He moved into the starting position as a sophomore and showed his mettle by completing 248 passes for 2,884 yards and 27 touchdowns, leading among other things, to a Stanford upset over Oklahoma. Coaches of rival teams including those of U.C.LA and Southern Cal began comparing him to some of the game's all-time greats. His junior year came as something of a disappointment as the team had a 4-11 record. Still, Elway's individual statistics were such that most players would envy them: 214 completions for a total of 2,674 yards and 20 touchdowns.
      John bounced back as a senior with 262 completions for 3,242 yards and 24 touchdowns. Stanford only won five games, but their quarterback managed to finish second in balloting for the Heisman Trophy behind Herschel Walker of Georgia. Stanford's mediocre 20-23 during Elway's college career may have kept him from winning the coveted award, but he still entered the NFL draft as a top prospect. As an economic major, he maintained a B average in the classroom and did well enough on the baseball diamond that he signed with the New York Yankee organization, having two good seasons with Oneonta in their minor league system.
      Still, football had been John Elway's best sport and the game that attracted the most attention. The Baltimore Colts chose him as their number one draft choice. However, the Baltimore franchise had no appeal for either John or his advisor father, and he demanded to be traded or else he would simply opt for a baseball career. After a standoff the Colts management agreed to trade his contract rights to the Denver Broncos. With all the media attention that accompanied his arrival in Colorado, the press considered his performance less than spectacular. The rookie quarterback spent much of the season as understudy to regular Steve DeBerg, starting on occasion. Playing roughly half the time, Elway completed 123 passes for 1,663 yards and 7 touchdowns and carrying the ball 28 times for 146 yards and scoring a single TD. The next year he got more playing time and improved his record.
      The third year with the Broncos 1985-proved to be the one where the Elway charm on the field came of age. He led the league in attempted and completed passes, which gave his team 3,891 yards and' 22 touchdowns. His rushing totals added 253 more yards. His team led the league in total passing and total offense. It could be the first of seven consecutive seasons in which the Stanford alumnus would pass for more than 3,000 yards and carry the ball for at least another 230.
      During this remarkable streak, one achievement eluded the star quarterback, and that was leading the Broncos to a victory in the Super Bowl. Three times the Denver team reached the pinnacle, only to falter, losing to the New York Giants, the Washington Redskins, and finally the San Francisco 49ers. The latter loss proved especially humiliating as the 49ers rolled over the hapless Broncos by a score of 55 to 10. Although John Elway scored the only Denver touchdown, it hardly came as a consolation prize in which to take much pride. Many years would pass before another opportunity came to the Broncos.
     John Elway did have some career downswings. One came in the first part of the 1989 season when he was somewhat off his game. The press launched a series of tasteless attacks accusing him of being stingy with restaurant tips, and a Denver newspaper complained about the quality of Halloween candy passed out to trick-or-treaters. Later in the seasons, his records improved, and while his numbers were down somewhat, he still managed to surpass 3,000 yards in passing totals. The ungrateful critics simply turned their venom on others.
      John Elway had one of his best seasons in 1993 with 348 completions, total yards passing of 4,030,i.and 25 touchdowns. A Super Bowl trip eluded the Broncos in this period. Former Pittsburgh Steeler quarterback, Terry Bradshaw, charged that John had been excessively coddled, first by his supporting family and second by the Denver organization. Although stung by this criticism, Elway conceded that it would be hard to be rated a truly great quarterback until his team had posted a Super Bowl victory.
      By 1997 the Bronco rebuilding program began to show significant results. Their running game, led by Terrell Davis, began to compete with their always strong passing attack, and the Denver eleven was strong at every position. Finally, in Super Bowl XXXII, the time had come. In what was billed as a showdown between the John Elway led Broncos and the Brett Favre led Green Bay Packers, Denver finally came home a winner by a 31-24 score. As the bio section on the Elway web site reads: "The dark cloud of doubt that had followed from his first Super Bowl defeat onward evaporated in an unbridled celebration of vindication!" Just to prove that their Super Bowl "jinx" had vanished, the Broncos also took XXXIII in January 1999 with a 34-19 victory over the Atlanta Falcons. John Elway was named the game's "Most Valuable Player."
      A few weeks after that savored victory John Elway announced his retirement. At thirty-nine he was ready to hang up his shoes. His career totals now included 4,123 completions; 51,475 yards passing; and 300 TD passes in regular season play; plus 3,407 yards rushing and 33 touchdowns scored. His playoff and Super Bowl statistics would add some 355 more completions and 4,964 yards and. 27 touchdown passes. He scored six TDs in such competition. He made a formal announcement of his retirement on May 2, 1999.

John Elway may have retired from the <gridiron, but he continued in a variety of business endeavors. Some of those include two restaurants in the Denver area and principal ownership of the Arena League football franchise, the Colorado Crush. At one time he owned five auto dealerships in Colorado, but he subsequently sold them. He still owns one in Ontario, California. He has also partnered with Bassett Furniture in developing certain products. In 2006 when a Pennsylvania high school student was punished-somewhat foolishly-for wearing a John Elway Denver Bronco football jersey to class by a Steeler fan-teacher, Elway sent the youth a recliner chair. As a philanthropist, he started the John Elway Foundation, which raises money for two charities that help abused children. Some have speculated a possible run for the U.S. Senate in 2008.
      John Elway's Masonic membership dates from February 22 and 23, 2002, when he was part of a Grand Lodge of Colorado two-day class. He passed his proficiency on June 28, 2002. He is described as a "perpetual member" of South Denver- Lodge No. 93, a status which is usually termed "a life member" in most grand jurisdictions. He has apparently not joined other Masonic bodies or otherwise been particularly active, but he does maintain a busy schedule.
      In his personal life, John Elway was married to Janet Buchan, who had been a member of the girls' swimming team at Stanford, until they divorced in 2003. The couple had two daughters, Jessica and Jordan, both of whom are in college, and a son, John Albert Elway III, scheduled to graduate from high school in 2008.
      John Elway's attainments on the football field speak for themselves. He ranks third among all NFL quarterbacks in passes attempted and completed, and fourth in touchdown passes. Elway entered the National 'Football League Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, in 2004. He is also a successful businessman and philanthropist. Masons should not only be proud of Brother Elway but be honored that he took the time to join our fraternity.

Bibliography: Most of the biographical data on John Elway comes from the entry in Current Biography (1990) and from his web site. His Masonic.record came from the staff at the Grand Lodge of Colorado.

Sir Knight Ivan M. Tribe, KCT, KYCH, 33º, and a professor emeritus of history at the University' of Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Ohio, is a Past Commander of Athens Commandery No. 15, Athens, Ohio. He resides at 111 East High Street, McArthur, OH 45651-1111.

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Part III-Brother Vincent Lopez:
Anatomy of a Band Leader
by Sir Knight Joseph E. Bennett, KYCH, 33°, FPS
Part I ~ Part II

     On the west coast in 1939, Lopez added stamp collecting to his nonmusical pursuits. He also had a brief career writing a news column for a San Francisco newspaper, in which he predicted future events with a numerology method he devised. In a burst of patriotic fervor, he wrote new lyrics for the "Star Spangled Banner." A little later he began dabbling in metaphysics. In February 1940, Lopez began to tour eastward, ending up in New York City. He opened in Billy Rose's Aquacade on May 11, 1940, at the New York World Fair. The Lopez band appeared for a time on the NBC broadcast, as a feature of their "Show of the Week."
     Overall, though, he was losing ground rapidly in the musical mainstream. When he opened with the band in the summer of 1941, at the new Hurricane Club on Broadway, the venture failed in a week. Lopez had not been paid and was penniless once more.
     With a personal indebtedness exceeding $30,000, Lopez was desperate. Determined to establish a permanent arrangement, he signed a contract with the Hotel Taft to play in their grill room. Vincent was paid double the union wage for musicians, and his men earned the union hourly rate. He opened on June 29, 1941, in the somewhat austere, tiled grill room, which was to be his musical home for seven years. It had one redeeming virtue. The Taft Grill opened at noon and closed at nine in the evening. Many fine studio musicians were available during those hours, and Lopez hired them consistently to staff his band, even though they had regular night commitments. The Taft Grill became a popular stopping place for military personnel, as the draft began to bring a great many young men into New York as transients. After Pearl Harbor was bombed on December 7, 1941, business boomed at the Taft Grill.
     Lopez was so successful at the Taft that he was able to survive a world-class boner related to his astrological predictions. In a column written for the American Astrological Magazine, released on December 6, 1941, he predicted that the United States and Japan would enter World War II as allies! Lopez was obliged to endure a great deal of ridicule. His long-estranged wife, Mae Kenney Lopez, died during the year, freeing the erratic pianist from further marital obligations. In retrospect, however, World War II proved to be a lifesaver for Vincent, inasmuch as it offered an opportunity to revive his musical fortunes.
     Never in robust health, Lopez' physical situation deteriorated steadily during the war years, and he was obliged to limit his non-business activity. It became a stable financial period as a result. Vincent was compelled to curtail his lavish social life. The band continued to receive extensive radio coverage during the Taft Grill years, enjoying a permanent radio wire and 'widespread popularity beyond the confines of their normal venue.
     Another of Vincent's profitable ventures turned out to be the song, "Bell Bottom Trousers," a musical hit of the war years. He collected substantial royalties during a period when "war" songs enjoyed great popularity. The Vincent Lopez Orchestra made numerous appearances at military installations during the war, playing for a generation of soldiers who had never enjoyed his music. The publicity paved the way for radio and television work coming in the genesis for the band leader who many in the musical community had written off as a relic of the past.
     Lopez' health declined steadily after WWII, frequently confining him to bed in his own apartment. Among his physical complaints were chronic gout and vision irregularities. Realizing he must hire an assistant band leader to assure stability in his musical obligation at the Taft Grill, Lopez began prospecting for a qualified man. It turned out to be a lifelong New Yorker with a fine musical background. He was Johnny Messner, a successful New York band leader during the prewar years, just recently returned from military service.

     Messner and his Music Box Band had been a fixture at the plush Marine Grill Room of the Hotel McAlpin for years. His elegant alto saxophone and clarinet performances qualified Johnny to fill the lead chair in any reed section. In addition, he was also an excellent singer with a fine formal musical education the perfect choice for Vincent Lopez.
     The new assistant leader relieved Vincent of a great many responsibilities. He called and conducted rehearsals, became the band's featured vocalist and instrumental ,soloist, and served as leader when Lopez was absent. Most important, he provided the freedom necessary for Vincent to prospect for opportunities in the newest entertainment medium-television.
     Lopez was convinced there were great opportunities in pioneer TV programming, similar to those in radio two decades earlier. His public image had been sustained during the war years by virtue of the radio audience who listened to the band's continuous broadcasting from the Taft Grill. The strains of Lopez' piano theme "Nola" continued to be a familiar musical radio identification well into the decade of the 1950s. It was as much a part of the Lopez persona as the cryptic greeting, "Lopez speaking." A number of recorded live broadcasts survive to confirm the quality of Vincent's tasty musical offerings. Regardless of ill health and his eclectic business responsibilities, Vincent Lopez still provided the musical image necessary for his band. His presence at the keyboard, playing a musical specialty like Zez Confrey's venerable "Kitten On the Keys," never failed to delight the patrons. His strong piano lead continued to anchor the arrangements, as always.
     By the late 1940s, Vincent's health had declined to an alarming level. He needed a full-time nurse to monitor his medical needs and provide necessary home care. The obvious candidate was Betty Long, a registered nurse and longtime Bible student. Her resume included credits as a song composer and clothes designer, in addition to her qualifications as a nurse. Betty was the ideal medical attendant for. Vincent. Almost immediately, she took over the management of the maestro's personal life, which included a generous dose of social discipline. Before long, they were married. Lopez settled into a structured domestic routine for the first time in his life. Within a brief period, his health improved dramatically, and he began to enjoy a level of contentment he had never achieved in his adult life. Healthy and mentally rejuvenated, Lopez made many early television appearances over the DuMont TV network. He was also an honored guest on Ed Sullivan's nationwide show.
     Before long, DuMont signed Lopez to a 15-minute daily TV program. He played the piano, chatted with show business guests, and interviewed audience visitors in an informal, personal style. The program grew into a national weekly television show, which included a guest list with more than 200 famous entertainment personalities. A Dinner Date With Vincent Lopez" enjoyed two and a half years of national popularity.
     Johnny Messner departed at the end of 1958. Lopez disbanded his orchestra to devote time to a scaled-down musical agenda. He played a number of engagements in Las Vegas with a small band and was very successful. However, his chronic eye problem plagued him after World War II. By 1960 it became acute and required a series of surgical procedures. In spite of his vision difficulties, Vincent was able to continue his musical appearances on a limited scale and to participate in a number of ancillary business ventures. Secure financially for the first time in his life, he was contemplating retirement as the decade of the sixties ended.
     Vincent and Betty retired to a quiet life in Florida, where the little Portuguese maestro lived out his life in tranquil contentment. As his health eroded, he was eventually compelled to live in a private nursing home. Lopez died quietly in a North Miami hospital on September 20, 1975. He was 85 years old. His demise occurred two years after his 50-year recognition from the Grand Lodge of New York, on August 21, 1973. His symbolic membership was in the venerable St. Cecile Lodge No. 568 in New York City, as was that of Paul Whiteman.
     St. Cecile was founded after the Civil War as a daylight lodge catering to the working habits of the entertainment community. Its membership rolls over the years have reflected the names of countless distinguished musical and stage personalities. Among the most prominent names "on its rolls are those of Vincent Lopez and Paul Whiteman.
     Lopez received his E.A. Degree on June 5, 1923, his F.C. Degree on August 7, and the M.M. Degree on August 21, 1923, Author William Ray Denslow lists Lopez as being a member of "Cabellerus de America Lodge" in Buenos Aires, Argentina. That lodge, no longer listed on the international register, may have been one simply listed as "America Lodge No. 32" on the current record. However, the archives of the Grand Lodge of New York are silent in regard to Vincent's membership in Argentina.
     When Lopez died in 1975, he left a record of half a century devoted to memorable musical entertainment. Over those five decades, he carved a niche in the pantheon of popular musical giants which will endure for all time. He earned and squandered vast sums of money, but in the end, he managed to close his career in financial security. Nevertheless, his legacy as a founding father of the Big Band Era is unblemished. We, as Freemasons, are obliged to revere his memory as a faithful and distinguished member of the Craft. Vincent Lopez alone suffered the consequences for his personality flaws during his long life, and we are not privileged to pass judgment on any of his actions. It behooves us, as Freemasons, to wrap his faults and foibles in the mantle of Masonic charity. Our own frailties demand it. (THE END)

REFERENCE AND RESEARCH SOURCE
DeLONG, THQMAS A.: Pops, pub: New Century Publishers, Inc., Piscataway, New Jersey, 1983
DENSLOW, WILLIAM R.: 10,000 Famous Freemasons, Vol. III, pub: Missouri Lodge of Research, 1959
DEXTER, DAVE: Playback, pub: Billboard Publications, New York, N.Y., 1976
LOPEZ, VINCENT: Lopez Speaking, pub: Citadel Press, New York, N.Y.
SIMON, GEORGE T.: The Big Bands, pub: Macmillan Company, New York, N.Y.,1967
WALKER, LEO:
The Big Band Almanac, pub: Vinewood Enterprises, Inc.,Hollywood, California, 1978
The Wonderful Era of the Great Dance Bands, pub: Howell-North Books, Berkeley, California, 1964, Da Capo Press, New York, N.Y., 1990

MISCELLANEOUS:
Archives of the Grand Lodge of New York, A.F. & A.M.
Archives of St. Cecile Lodge No. 568, New York, N.Y.

Sir Knight Joseph E. Bennett, KYCH, 33º, FPS, and P.D.D.G.M. of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, is a member of Holy Grail Commandery No. 70, Lakewood, Ohio. He resides at: 1001 South Diamond Street, Nampa, ID 83686.

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<BGSOUND SRC="http://www.knightstemplar.org/music/026awesomeinthisplace.mid">
"Awesome in the Place"