Masons in CAP

[CadetProgramGuy]

DBlair and I were in a PM and I was wondering if there were any other Masons in CAP or more specifically CAPTalk.

Thanks!!

CPG

[DrJbdm]

+ 1

[Eclipse]

Probably at the weekly meeting, so would have to respond later...

[AirAux]

1+ and EMT also..

[mynetdude]

Are Masons useful? My last name is Mason, good enough 

[FW]

I know quite a few members of the fraternity in CAP.  Many of them are or were on the NB.  I would guesstimate quite a few hundred  of  "us" masons nation wide are also in CAP.  Obviously, we have infiltrated CT as well.

[Eagle400]

[Redacted]

Sorry; didn't factor in the full context. 

[CadetProgramGuy]

I greet you Brothers!!

[Short Field]

Oh God, now in addition to uniforms, we can have discussions on if your ring should have the point of the compass pointing to your fingernail or to your elbow...

[Dad2-4]

+1
I also know a SM who was also a cadet and who is a PM of his lodge.

[CadetProgramGuy]

Oh God, now in addition to uniforms, we can have discussions on if your ring should have the point of the compass pointing to your fingernail or to your elbow...

Fingernail......

Somthing to add since I started this.  I was only wondering if we Masons were involved in CAP, and in what capacity.  Thats all, nothing more, nothing less.

BTW....No proposing of uniforms to include the aprons......

[AlphaSigOU]

Triune Lodge No. 15, AF&AM, San Antonio, Texas (mother lodge)
Will Rogers Lodge No. 53 AF&AM, Claremore, Oklahoma (dual and perpetual member)*
Amistad Chapter No. 1115 OES, San Antonio, Texas
Templar Chapter No. 374 OES, Dallas, Texas
Past Patron, Plano Chapter No. 703 OES, Plano, Texas

* yes, it's Brother Will's mother lodge - we have his original petition displayed in the lodge.

There's no 'right' or 'wrong' way to wear a Masonic ring; many (including myself) prefer to wear the ring with the points of the Square and Compasses outward.

[mynetdude]

Can I ask what the point of a Mason is?

[AlphaSigOU]

Can I ask what the point of a Mason is?

We're just sharing our experience - several CTers are also members of the world's oldest fraternity.

[NBB0058]

Let's form our own secret cap/masonic fraternity and have an even more select inner sanctum organization..  One of our perceived goals will be to take over cap and rule the air force..

[Major Lord]

Masons (Freemasons) are a fraternal organization ( or secret society, depending on your historical perspective) that originated from hazy beginnings in the 16-17th centuries. They have a central metaphysical belief charter, but there are a number of different orders or "rites" with varying levels,  of membership. Their history is very fascinating, and many of America's founding fathers were masons, and their symbols and symbolism pervades every aspect of American life from out money design to out national architecture. Much of there metaphorical imagery concerns actual bricklaying, or masonry. They have a lot of spin-off groups you have probably heard of, like the Shriners and their hospitals. They tend to like funny hats, and had issues with the Catholic Church, which responded by creating its own secret society of men who like to wear funny hats, and banned Catholics from becoming Masons. They have a lot in common with CAP: They do public service and really like funny hats and incomprehensible regulations. Unlike CAP, they have tens of different levels of grade, or "degrees" depending somewhat on their particular rite.

Major Lord
(Not a Mason)

[AirAux]

One of the purposes of the Mason's is to make a good man better..

[Outrider]

 LTC Larry Adair CA-034 and myself are both Masons in CA.

Robert Nield, Capt
Director. CAWG Counter Drug Operations
CA-001
MP/Examiner
Retired USAF/Peace Officer

[mynetdude]

MJ (Major Lord)

That is one heck of an awesome explanation, I did a little research in the FreeMasons, your explanation coupled with CAP comparison makes it all better .

I like public service, though I am sure the Masons are more involving than that.  I'd ask how one can inquire about joining the Masons but this is CT so I'll stop here.

[RRLE]

I'd ask how one can inquire about joining the Masons but this is CT so I'll stop here

At one time you could not apply to be a Mason, you had to be invited to membership by an existing Mason. I have no idea if that is still their policy.

For the historians among us, if you research Masons also research the Anti-Masonic Party founded in NYS in 1828. The Masons might be the only private club that ever had a formal opposition political party that fielded candidates for political office. I have no idea if the anti-Masons like funny hats or regular hats.

[mynetdude]

I'd ask how one can inquire about joining the Masons but this is CT so I'll stop here

At one time you could not apply to be a Mason, you had to be invited to membership by an existing Mason. I have no idea if that is still their policy.

For the historians among us, if you research Masons also research the Anti-Masonic Party founded in NYS in 1828. The Masons might be the only private club that ever had a formal opposition political party that fielded candidates for political office. I have no idea if the anti-Masons like funny hats or regular hats.

Interesting, that makes sense since its still "secretive" in a way.  Maybe I better start working on my loyalty to CAP 24/7

[AirAux]

I am so sorry, but you are so wrong.. You will never be invited to be a mason..  To be one, ask one..  More than that exposes me to mortal danger..

[a2capt]

Masons don't market, but rather wait for the inquiry and when thats made, you'll have to officially petition the Lodge, and be subject to a (membership review like) board that convenes in private after your petition. But to start, just ask one. They will take it from there.

[tdepp]

Masons (Freemasons) are a fraternal organization ( or secret society, depending on your historical perspective) that originated from hazy beginnings in the 16-17th centuries. They have a central metaphysical belief charter, but there are a number of different orders or "rites" with varying levels,  of membership. Their history is very fascinating, and many of America's founding fathers were masons, and their symbols and symbolism pervades every aspect of American life from out money design to out national architecture. Much of there metaphorical imagery concerns actual bricklaying, or masonry. They have a lot of spin-off groups you have probably heard of, like the Shriners and their hospitals. They tend to like funny hats, and had issues with the Catholic Church, which responded by creating its own secret society of men who like to wear funny hats, and banned Catholics from becoming Masons. They have a lot in common with CAP: They do public service and really like funny hats and incomprehensible regulations. Unlike CAP, they have tens of different levels of grade, or "degrees" depending somewhat on their particular rite.

Major Lord
(Not a Mason)

I fully support any organization that wears funny hats as Major non-Mason Lord points out.     I am not a Mason but my father is.  I liked the comment above that the organization makes good men better.  Then there are the Shriners, who I think do tremendous good with their childrens' hospitals.  And they too wear funny hats, namely, the fez, and many drive miniature cars and motorcycles in parades. 

One thing that I've noticed and have learned from talking to Masons and members of other fraternal organizations is that like CAP, their memberships are aging.  I don't know if it is because of the changing roles of men through the years, time, expense, or whatever, but many of these public service organizations are endangered because their members are dying off.  I'm not much of a joiner myself but I think these types of groups have played an important role in the shaping of our country, doing good works, giving people moral leadership, and providing a sense of community. 

[Major Lord]

I am so sorry, but you are so wrong.. You will never be invited to be a mason..  To be one, ask one..  More than that exposes me to mortal danger..

[/b]

Ist Degree Mason Oath: "I do most solemnly and sincerely promise and swear, without the least equivocation, mental reservation, or self evasion of mind in me whatever; binding myself under no less penalty than to have my throat cut across, my tongue torn out by the roots, and my body buried in the rough sands of the sea at low watermark, where the tide ebbs and flows twice in twenty-four hours; so help me God, and keep me steadfast in the due performance of the same."

They get a little more serious at the higher levels.....

Major (not a Mason) Lord

[FW]

^ Yes, to become a Mason, you just need ask one.  Until recently, a Mason could not invite you to join.  In Pa., a Mason may now invite a "worthy" man to join the fraternity. Each jurisdiction or Grand Lodge has its own rules.  If you're interested in joining, call the Grand Lodge in your state for more information on membership.  The more CT Masons, the better chance we have of taking over...

[Major Lord]

^ Yes, to become a Mason, you just need ask one.  Until recently, a Mason could not invite you to join.  In Pa., a Mason may now invite a "worthy" man to join the fraternity. Each jurisdiction or Grand Lodge has its own rules.  If you're interested in joining, call the Grand Lodge in your state for more information on membership.  The more CT Masons, the better chance we have of taking over...

Can I suggest a a name for your group? How about "Capilluminati" we could use a few more good conspiracies.........

Major (not a Mason) Lord

[cap235629]

had issues with the Catholic Church, which responded by creating its own secret society of men who like to wear funny hats, and banned Catholics from becoming Masons

What secret organization did the Catholic Church create?

If you are referring to the Knights of Columbus, you are WAY wrong

Worthy Sir Knight William F. Hobbs Jr.
KofC Council 996
Assembly 25

[Major Lord]

had issues with the Catholic Church, which responded by creating its own secret society of men who like to wear funny hats, and banned Catholics from becoming Masons

What secret organization did the Catholic Church create?

If you are referring to the Knights of Columbus, you are WAY wrong

Worthy Sir Knight William F. Hobbs Jr.
KofC Council 996
Assembly 25

The KofC (not the chicken frying people) was a purely American creation, founded with the backing of the Church to allow Catholics to have a fraternity ( and good life insurance) In Connecticut. Its a Corporation. The founder, a Catholic priest by the name of Michael J. McGivney has been offered as a Candidate for Sainthood. They wear funny hats, but have swords just in case someone makes fun of them being dressed like Napolean.

There are a number of "secret orders" of the Catholic Church, but since you have not heard about them, I will have to assume that you have not been read-in since your clearance is not high enough 

Happy Anniversary William! Don't put your eye out!

Major (Not a Knight)  Lord

[mynetdude]

had issues with the Catholic Church, which responded by creating its own secret society of men who like to wear funny hats, and banned Catholics from becoming Masons

What secret organization did the Catholic Church create?

If you are referring to the Knights of Columbus, you are WAY wrong

Worthy Sir Knight William F. Hobbs Jr.
KofC Council 996
Assembly 25

The KofC (not the chicken frying people) was a purely American creation, founded with the backing of the Church to allow Catholics to have a fraternity ( and good life insurance) In Connecticut. Its a Corporation. The founder, a Catholic priest by the name of Michael J. McGivney has been offered as a Candidate for Sainthood. They wear funny hats, but have swords just in case someone makes fun of them being dressed like Napolean.

There are a number of "secret orders" of the Catholic Church, but since you have not heard about them, I will have to assume that you have not been read-in since your clearance is not high enough 

Happy Anniversary William! Don't put your eye out!

Major (Not a Knight)  Lord

Wow you need clearance in these things? Are these fraternities that dangerous?

[Major Lord]

I could tell you, but then I would have to kill you.....

Major Lord

[mynetdude]

I could tell you, but then I would have to kill you.....

Major Lord

Well then I guess I am not interested there are plenty of other public service orgs out there that aren't so secretive.

[JC004]

^ Yes, to become a Mason, you just need ask one.  Until recently, a Mason could not invite you to join.  In Pa., a Mason may now invite a "worthy" man to join the fraternity. Each jurisdiction or Grand Lodge has its own rules.  If you're interested in joining, call the Grand Lodge in your state for more information on membership.  The more CT Masons, the better chance we have of taking over...

Way to start conspiracy theories, Colonel.   

[FARRIER]

My Uncle was a Shriner, member of the El Jebel Drovers (Horses, not funny cars). They didn't have much time for world domination. What I picked up from him besides the sense of community was a brotherhood.

Masons (Freemasons) are a fraternal organization ( or secret society, depending on your historical perspective) that originated from hazy beginnings in the 16-17th centuries. They have a central metaphysical belief charter, but there are a number of different orders or "rites" with varying levels,  of membership. Their history is very fascinating, and many of America's founding fathers were masons, and their symbols and symbolism pervades every aspect of American life from out money design to out national architecture. Much of there metaphorical imagery concerns actual bricklaying, or masonry. They have a lot of spin-off groups you have probably heard of, like the Shriners and their hospitals. They tend to like funny hats, and had issues with the Catholic Church, which responded by creating its own secret society of men who like to wear funny hats, and banned Catholics from becoming Masons. They have a lot in common with CAP: They do public service and really like funny hats and incomprehensible regulations. Unlike CAP, they have tens of different levels of grade, or "degrees" depending somewhat on their particular rite.

Major Lord
(Not a Mason)

I fully support any organization that wears funny hats as Major non-Mason Lord points out.     I am not a Mason but my father is.  I liked the comment above that the organization makes good men better.  Then there are the Shriners, who I think do tremendous good with their childrens' hospitals.  And they too wear funny hats, namely, the fez, and many drive miniature cars and motorcycles in parades. 

One thing that I've noticed and have learned from talking to Masons and members of other fraternal organizations is that like CAP, their memberships are aging.  I don't know if it is because of the changing roles of men through the years, time, expense, or whatever, but many of these public service organizations are endangered because their members are dying off.  I'm not much of a joiner myself but I think these types of groups have played an important role in the shaping of our country, doing good works, giving people moral leadership, and providing a sense of community.

[FW]

^ Yes, to become a Mason, you just need ask one.  Until recently, a Mason could not invite you to join.  In Pa., a Mason may now invite a "worthy" man to join the fraternity. Each jurisdiction or Grand Lodge has its own rules.  If you're interested in joining, call the Grand Lodge in your state for more information on membership.  The more CT Masons, the better chance we have of taking over...

Way to start conspiracy theories, Colonel.   

waaaa? who, me?...... :angel:

The only thing Masons can agree on is: eating a meal before a meeting (OK, we can't even agree on that...)

I could tell you, but then I would have to kill you.....

Major Lord

Seriously, there is nothing done in Free Masonry which is contrary to any law, religion or moral code.  You just need to be over 18, male (this is a fraternity) and, able to make a free decision about membership.


What one does in their free time is their business......

[Major Lord]

FW,

I know that you guys are not likely to try and conquer the world, and I have nothing against the Freemasons, but the Catholic Church disagrees with you on being in conflict with "any religion" and bars Catholics from becoming Freemasons. I understand that the Freemasons have no trouble accepting Catholics, but if you do, you are accepting someone who has made a contrary allegiance. Catholics are not generally excommunicated anymore for joining, so maybe they are lightening up.....Remember how long it took them to undo their "2B" of Galileo?

Major Lord
(Dated a "Rainbow Girl" in high school!)

[Major Lord]

had issues with the Catholic Church, which responded by creating its own secret society of men who like to wear funny hats, and banned Catholics from becoming Masons

What secret organization did the Catholic Church create?

If you are referring to the Knights of Columbus, you are WAY wrong

Worthy Sir Knight William F. Hobbs Jr.
KofC Council 996
Assembly 25

The KofC (not the chicken frying people) was a purely American creation, founded with the backing of the Church to allow Catholics to have a fraternity ( and good life insurance) In Connecticut. Its a Corporation. The founder, a Catholic priest by the name of Michael J. McGivney has been offered as a Candidate for Sainthood. They wear funny hats, but have swords just in case someone makes fun of them being dressed like Napolean.

There are a number of "secret orders" of the Catholic Church, but since you have not heard about them, I will have to assume that you have not been read-in since your clearance is not high enough 

Happy Anniversary William! Don't put your eye out!

Major (Not a Knight)  Lord

Wow you need clearance in these things? Are these fraternities that dangerous?

Mynetdude,

You misunderstand. There is very little secret about the KofC ( except their secret recipe for fried chicken, and a couple of FOUO initiation ceremonies) and just being a male Catholic and a fondness for funny hats ( and being 18) can get you in. Their are a number of very secret and secretive organizations within the Catholic Church, and these are not the kind of thing you just fill out a form and apply for. I would not call them dangerous.

Major (not an Opus Dei Member) Lord

[Daniel]

Somewhat on topic:
Masons and Shriners are awesome, and probably they are involved in CAP as said earlier they stand for many of the same things we do.

Daniel "Been a Shriners Hospital patient since 2 years old; and in two clinics there" Lewis

[mynetdude]

had issues with the Catholic Church, which responded by creating its own secret society of men who like to wear funny hats, and banned Catholics from becoming Masons

What secret organization did the Catholic Church create?

If you are referring to the Knights of Columbus, you are WAY wrong

Worthy Sir Knight William F. Hobbs Jr.
KofC Council 996
Assembly 25

The KofC (not the chicken frying people) was a purely American creation, founded with the backing of the Church to allow Catholics to have a fraternity ( and good life insurance) In Connecticut. Its a Corporation. The founder, a Catholic priest by the name of Michael J. McGivney has been offered as a Candidate for Sainthood. They wear funny hats, but have swords just in case someone makes fun of them being dressed like Napolean.

There are a number of "secret orders" of the Catholic Church, but since you have not heard about them, I will have to assume that you have not been read-in since your clearance is not high enough 

Happy Anniversary William! Don't put your eye out!

Major (Not a Knight)  Lord

Wow you need clearance in these things? Are these fraternities that dangerous?

Mynetdude,

You misunderstand. There is very little secret about the KofC ( except their secret recipe for fried chicken, and a couple of FOUO initiation ceremonies) and just being a male Catholic and a fondness for funny hats ( and being 18) can get you in. Their are a number of very secret and secretive organizations within the Catholic Church, and these are not the kind of thing you just fill out a form and apply for. I would not call them dangerous.

Major (not an Opus Dei Member) Lord

Uh ok, I won't bother asking I'm not looking to just fill out a form and join but ok I don't fit the bill I'm not even catholic (which ironically has skewered my understanding the FM didn't like the catholics and here you say be a catholic).

I was considering joining the Kiwanis club, you have to fill out paperwork but they also do internal membership screening (huh!?!? We at CAP should be doing that but I'll refrain further as that's another topic) I am looking to make a difference, so far I've done very little of that in CAP due to some hindrance and I won't say more of that.

I'll join everything else before I finally become catholic (sorry, I don't have anything against Catholics but I do have a problem with following very strict ethical rules that some just don't make any sense and while CAP may have silly rules that don't make sense at least it is still effectively letting me participate).

I simply want to go to church and then go home believing, not do a bunch of things I must and can't do!

[cap235629]

I'll join everything else before I finally become catholic (sorry, I don't have anything against Catholics but I do have a problem with following very strict ethical rules that some just don't make any sense and while CAP may have silly rules that don't make sense at least it is still effectively letting me participate).

I simply want to go to church and then go home believing, not do a bunch of things I must and can't do!

Entirely uncalled for and you seem to be totally ignorant of the Catholic Church. Please stop confirming it and keep you opinions to yourself.  If you have real questions or would like honest answers about the faith, please PM me and I will be glad to assist you.

[AlphaSigOU]

I am a baptized - but not practicing - Roman Catholic and a Mason. The Holy Roman Church probably has excommunicated me any way, but as my Hawaiian friends say: 'ainokea'!

[Major Lord]

Alpha,

Formal excommunication is pretty rare, but, by not practicing, you are sort of "excommunicated" ( not in communication with the Sacraments)  by nature, rather than formal decree. They will take you back any time you want, and unlike CAP, you won't have to pay back dues and the "grace" period ( pardon the Catholic pun) is your lifetime, or the end of the world, whichever comes first! Most priests would not even slam you for the Masons membership.

As for Netdude, I can certainly understand not like being held to a strict ethical or moral code, who does? You don't have to like it....Personally, I think the Shriners and the Lions do wonderful work. As a medical kind of guy, I have a soft-spot for sick kids. Lots of good public service groups out there.

Major Lord

[mynetdude]

Alpha,

Formal excommunication is pretty rare, but, by not practicing, you are sort of "excommunicated" ( not in communication with the Sacraments)  by nature, rather than formal decree. They will take you back any time you want, and unlike CAP, you won't have to pay back dues and the "grace" period ( pardon the Catholic pun) is your lifetime, or the end of the world, whichever comes first! Most priests would not even slam you for the Masons membership.

As for Netdude, I can certainly understand not like being held to a strict ethical or moral code, who does? You don't have to like it....Personally, I think the Shriners and the Lions do wonderful work. As a medical kind of guy, I have a soft-spot for sick kids. Lots of good public service groups out there.

Major Lord

well we could talk about morals, ethics and respect and right and wrong.  You're right some may not like it and some may not care.  Don't get me wrong, and I may have come across a bit disrespectful as that was not my intent so I apologize because at the very least I want to respect others (but wait! I can't please everybody either!)

I actually never received help from Shriners when I was a kid I must've been lucky to have a good mom! (gasp! Did I just mention mommy? Tomorrow is mother's day).  I am familiar with the Lions Club as well, been to a couple meetings and wasn't wholeheartedly impressed with that particular group again I still applaud them for what they do.

Just because I may not like something does not mean I don't follow them necessarily.  Do I like being rude? No, do I like being nice (well there is no reason not to be). Do I like going to church? Not wholeheartedly but do I respect them? Yes; FYI I have been to mass services and rosaries and baptisms.

Major Lord BTW I have been with doctors all my life, some years more than others and for a short while I was around doctors for several years as a kid when I finally turned 10 or so that started to ease a bit as I grew.  I haven't liked science or math and "climbing up" to get involved if you will and CAP has been it for me (and soon the CG Aux) I saw some things that I am missing out on and I intend to try to find out about how to get involved for next year.

[Short Field]

I am a baptized - but not practicing - Roman Catholic and a Mason. The Holy Roman Church probably has excommunicated me any way, but as my Hawaiian friends say: 'ainokea'!

There are no conflicts today between Masons and the Catholic Church.  That was resolved several years ago.  Some non-Masons seem to delight in spreading falsehoods about the Masonic orders.  Other non-Masons just like to expound on that of which they know nothing.  CORRECTION:  I was informed Masons are still under threat of a Interdict.  If you are Catholic, please consult your priest before contacting a Masonic Lodge.  I have known many Catholic Masons (related to a few) but as I am not Catholic, I can't speak for their status in the church.

[CadetProgramGuy]

Ok fella's back on topic.

Somthing was mentioned earlier.  "Masons seek to make good men better."  There is more to that statement than what was mentioned.

"Masons seek to make good men better, not better than another man, just better than himself"

I joined the Masons for a variety of reasons, mostly reasons for what I was lacking from CAP.  Fellowship with other guys.

Becoming a Mason has opened my thoughts to knowing myself better than I used to do.  Then revealing to my father that I became a Mason, he revealed to me that he was also, as my Grandfather before him.  I literally stumbled into the path of my family, on my own.

My lodge is about half and half older "think wheel chairs and walkers" and young men (30's)  Us younger men are planning Golf Tournaments and such to raise money for our scholarship we offer to high schoolers to attend college.

I am planning a short run of monthly poker tournaments for the same reason starting this fall.

[Major Carrales]

I am a Knight of Columbus, been one since about 1996.

One things said in this discussion that is true is the Aging of various "communitarians" in these such organizations.  I don't attribute it to the "male" thing mentioned earlier as much as I attribute it to a cultural shift in America in the later half of the 20th century...mostly, the "Me Generation." 

When the desires to serve one's self before service to the community becomes the mantra, there is no place for CAP, Knights of Columbus, Masons, Lion's and the like.

When one takes on the ideals of hedonism, the pursuance of the interal pleasures for the individual, as opposed to communitarianism, service to the community as an individual for the local benefit of neighbors...there are  consequences to be paid.

And so, our organizations age...with a HUGE gap in age until there is that shift in the other direction.

These are, of course, my opinions and preceptions of the sociology of the matter.

[Short Field]

There are a lot of reasons volunteer and fraternal organizations are having membership problems.  Society has changed.  People tend to live, work, and play on a 24-7 schedule of their own.  People are working harder and longer today to maintain their standard of living.  Things that we use to consider a luxury are now essential.  Sure, everyone doesn't need a cell phone and a home computer with internet access but they are definitely moving from the pure luxury side.  The middle class is shrinking and so is the major source of our manpower.

[Daryl Morning]

JW - Chippewa Falls #176

[mynetdude]

In response to Major Carrales and Short Field's last posts

I know I am getting older, I am 30 now I have pretty much somewhat figured out what I want to do in life (in general) and given what I have and what most people don't have I feel more compelled to do so because I can because I don't have to and because I choose not to follow the mantra of the "me" society don't get me wrong I always balance community service and self otherwise I'd have no self left because one needs self.

I like the Kiwanis Club actually but they didn't have anything "fitting" for me in my opinion. I have stayed in CAP because I am still drawn to it (no matter how much some people still are pissing me off, then again this isn't about me now).

I have a thought that keeps coming up every now and then, volunteer when nobody else can cuz there isn't enough in the world.  Anyway the Mason Fraternity sounds neat thanks for the info and for those of you in it very AWESOME of you all to take the time to be involved in whatever you do

[RRLE]

You might want to read the Masonry (Freemasonry) article in the Catholic Encyclopedia to get the history and current position of the Catholic Church on Freemasonry. It isn't what you have been reading here.

There are a lot of reasons volunteer and fraternal organizations are having membership problems.  Society has changed.

Another reason is the rise of the welfare state. If you look at when a lot of the fraternal organizations started, there was next to no welfare programs or social safety net. Most of the fraternal organizations started as mutual benefit and aid organizations. A key early member benefit was insurance. As government provided more and more of the functions formally provided by the fraternal and charitable organizations the need for them began to decline.

I have always liked the name of the Society of Odd Fellows.

[JC004]

^ Yes, to become a Mason, you just need ask one.  Until recently, a Mason could not invite you to join.  In Pa., a Mason may now invite a "worthy" man to join the fraternity. Each jurisdiction or Grand Lodge has its own rules.  If you're interested in joining, call the Grand Lodge in your state for more information on membership.  The more CT Masons, the better chance we have of taking over...

Way to start conspiracy theories, Colonel.   

I shall start a CAP Mason conspiracy theory/rumor involving you as finally getting my revenge for that whole Lifesaving ribbon thing...

I want to be able to say that the conspiracy goes all the way up to the National Commander so it sounds like a really great conspiracy, but unfortunately she is not eligible for membership, so I have to create something else. 

[AlphaSigOU]

...I want to be able to say that the conspiracy goes all the way up to the National Commander so it sounds like a really great conspiracy, but unfortunately she is not eligible for membership, so I have to create something else.

She may not be eligible for membership but if one of her male relatives is a Mason, she can be an Eastern Star! 

[JC004]

...I want to be able to say that the conspiracy goes all the way up to the National Commander so it sounds like a really great conspiracy, but unfortunately she is not eligible for membership, so I have to create something else.

She may not be eligible for membership but if one of her male relatives is a Mason, she can be an Eastern Star! 

Great!  I'll weave that into the conspiracy theory!  Now I just have to tie a National Board member to Pierre L'Enfant...   

[tdepp]

Interesting discussion, lots of good points.

Here in Sioux Falls, the YMCA has put on the Tri-State Basketball tournament for over 80 years for grades 6-9.  For most of that time, next to the state high school tournaments, it was THE tournament to play in.  Winning your bracket was akin to winning a state championship.  It is run completely by volunteers.

I've played in it (won my bracket), coached in it (won my bracket), been a volunteer, and refereed in it.  You now see hardly anyone under 50 volunteering as not just referees but scorekeepers, timers, gym administrators, etc.  They now can't get enough volunteers even though youth basketball has grown by leaps and bounds.  Referees want to be paid.  People say they are "busy." And I'm sure many of my fellow South Dakotans are either working during the weekend or at their second or third jobs to make ends meet. 

We need more "communitarians," even in the age, as one poster put it, of the "welfare state." Liberal Democrat that I am, even I know Uncle Sugar can't do everything.  It takes local charities, churches, synagogues, mosques, fraternal organizations, the CAP, and so forth to help fill in the gaps.  We know who in our communities needs help and how best to help them. 

For those of you in your 20s, 30s, and 40s in particular who are involved in Lions, Shriners, youth sports, church youth groups (and of course, CAP), etc., THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!  Please know that your sacrifices in terms of time and money are needed and appreciated and make a difference in people's lives and in your communities.  Now, try to recruit your buddies to join you.

[mynetdude]

Interesting discussion, lots of good points.

Here in Sioux Falls, the YMCA has put on the Tri-State Basketball tournament for over 80 years for grades 6-9.  For most of that time, next to the state high school tournaments, it was THE tournament to play in.  Winning your bracket was akin to winning a state championship.  It is run completely by volunteers.

I've played in it (won my bracket), coached in it (won my bracket), been a volunteer, and refereed in it.  You now see hardly anyone under 50 volunteering as not just referees but scorekeepers, timers, gym administrators, etc.  They now can't get enough volunteers even though youth basketball has grown by leaps and bounds.  Referees want to be paid.  People say they are "busy." And I'm sure many of my fellow South Dakotans are either working during the weekend or at their second or third jobs to make ends meet. 

We need more "communitarians," even in the age, as one poster put it, of the "welfare state." Liberal Democrat that I am, even I know Uncle Sugar can't do everything.  It takes local charities, churches, synagogues, mosques, fraternal organizations, the CAP, and so forth to help fill in the gaps.  We know who in our communities needs help and how best to help them. 

For those of you in your 20s, 30s, and 40s in particular who are involved in Lions, Shriners, youth sports, church youth groups (and of course, CAP), etc., THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!  Please know that your sacrifices in terms of time and money are needed and appreciated and make a difference in people's lives and in your communities.  Now, try to recruit your buddies to join you.

:clap: my squadron has a fair share of younger people with older people guiding the squadron until we youngsters can safely take off with it

[Spike]

Seriously, lets go talk about Masons on the Mason Forum Boards.  Back to discussions about CAP Uniforms please!!!

BTW....I am a Mason.  A Card Carrying member of the local Mason Trade Union.  I apprenticed while in High School, know how to build a wall with stone and earned that title.  Anyone else here an actual Mason??

[CadetProgramGuy]

Seriously, lets go talk about Masons on the Mason Forum Boards.  Back to discussions about CAP Uniforms please!!!

BTW....I am a Mason.  A Card Carrying member of the local Mason Trade Union.  I apprenticed while in High School, know how to build a wall with stone and earned that title.  Anyone else here an actual Mason??

Ahh we have an Operative Mason in the crowd.....

[mynetdude]

Seriously, lets go talk about Masons on the Mason Forum Boards.  Back to discussions about CAP Uniforms please!!!

BTW....I am a Mason.  A Card Carrying member of the local Mason Trade Union.  I apprenticed while in High School, know how to build a wall with stone and earned that title.  Anyone else here an actual Mason??

This isn't the uniforms board, this is the Lobby!!! Where we lobby... I think?

[tdepp]

^^^^We need a brick mason who is a Mason named Mason from the Mason City CAP squadron to get us a superfecta. 

[mynetdude]

^^^^We need a brick mason who is a Mason named Mason from the Mason City CAP squadron to get us a superfecta. 

My last name is Mason! That's why I asked if that was good enough but apparently its not!