M.W. DANIEL L. LUNSFORD

MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND MASTER

Greetings:

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thy own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes, fear the Lord and depart from evil.” (Proverbs 3:5-7)

Once again I stand before you to give an account of my stewardship for the past Masonic year. As before I say with full knowledge and understanding that only through the grace of GOD and the trust and confidence of you my brethren that I was afforded the opportunity to serve our Great Fraternity this past year as Grand Master.

First giving honor to GOD, let me take this opportunity to welcome each of you to this our 90th Annual Communication of our Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, Washington and Jurisdiction.

I want to take this opportunity to again state how blessed I have been to have had such a competent staff of officer to work with these past three years. They have been a pleasure as well as a joy to work with. Whatever the need, whatever the time of day and no matter how great the challenge they responded.

Deputy Grand Master, Victor Sheldon Baxter has been outstanding, he was always there when I needed him, be it a small task or a special administrative matter. I never had to worry about traveling anywhere along, he was there. As for his responsibilities as the Chairman for the Grand Entertainment Committee, you are witnessing the results, another well planned and outstanding convention. For all you have done and have been for me, Deputy Baxter I thank you. Even my visit to Cow Town, New Jersey.

Grand Senior Warden, William C. Rheubottom, “Mr. Reliable”, whatever and whenever he was there. From Eastern Washington to Victoria, British Columbia and all points in between, “I’ll go if that’s what you want Grand!” All this in addition to his special projects, such as, Recognition for Life Members, Recognition Banquet for our Past Grand Masters, Spring Workshop and the publication of our excellent Masonic Community Newsletters to mention a few. Thank you Grand Senior Warden Rheubottom!

Grand Junior Warden, James B. Sloan, our Task Master, he always has another plan working. Once he sets out on a project, he’s like a snapping turtle, he holds on until the project is completed to his satisfaction. The work he and his Board of Regent officers have done has been simply gratifying.

Each of you are to be commended for the enormous amount of time you give to our youth. The outings, such as the different sports events, workshop presentation by renown speaker Les Brown the tour to our State Capitol (with the assistance of our Past Grand Master, Charles D. Stubblefield). Other activities such as the Banquet given in my honor, feeding the needy and our Senior Citizens and the Second Grand Conclave for the Knights. Your time and energy has not been wasted, for I and others have seen the results through our young men. However, the Great Dividends will not come until later, as they pass through the stages of life ahead. Thank you Grand Junior Warden Sloan!

Grand Treasurer, Darwyn B. Anderson and Grand Secretary David Archibald, the “Dynamic Duo.” These two individuals take care of business as if there was nothing to it, but don’t you believe it. Our Grand Lodge today is big business, and must be operated as such. In my opinion, we are truly blessed to have individuals not only with the qualifications for the job, but have a strong desire and dedication to their offices. Whatever I needed and whenever I needed it they responded. Thank you Grand Treasurer Anderson and Grand Secretary Archibald!

Grand Lecturer, Jesse P. Miller, our ambassador, he is everywhere and known by everybody. We could not have anyone do a better job of representing Prince Hall Masonry or this Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, Washington and Jurisdiction. Jesse has really been a busy person. In addition to visiting all of our lodges, providing ritualistic training, developing protocol booklets, and planning other programs, he is very much in demand by our brother lodges of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Washington. I have received numerous calls and letters speaking to his good works. In addition to doing all that he does, he continued to travel with me on most of my visitations and work with the Grand Entertainment Committee. Thank you Grand Lecturer, Miller!

To the Worshipful Masters, other Grand Officers (Elected and Appointed), Standing Committee Chairpersons, Past Masters and Brothers, I thank each of you as well for your loyalty and support. I need not call each of your names for surely I would overlook someone, you all know who you are. As for those I did not see or chose not to contribute toward our efforts, I thank each of you for not standing in the way of progress.

Last but not least, I give a special thank you to my wife G. Frances and my family. They were always there when I needed them. I thank GOD for blessing me with such a wonderful family.

NECROLOGY

Grand Architect of the Universe, our hearts are full by the memory of our brothers whom GOD in His infinite wisdom has taken on the journey to eternal rest. Grand Chaplain, let us pause for a moment of prayer in tribute to those brothers who have departed this troubled earthly world, and are now with the Grand Master of the Universe, far beyond the sky:

                        William L. Owens (E.A.)                                             Abiff #37                                                          June 23, 1992

                        Fred E. Derrick                                                           True Resolution #16                                       June24, 1992

                        James A. Davis, PM                                                   Harmony #2                                                    August 9, 1992

                        Kenneth R. Roebuck                                                  Hamma Hamma #35                                      August11, 1992

                        John Green                                                                 Cassia#5                                                        August 14, 1992

                        Herbert C. Tisdale                                                       Cassia #5                                                      August 16, 1992

                        E.A. Douglas, PGM                                                     Harmony #2                                                   August 20, 1992

                        Glenwood Buxton, PM                                                Hercules #17                                                  August 24, 1992

                        August Authorlee, Jr.                                                  Egyptian #44                                                  September 13, 992

                        Percy Powell                                                               Abiff #37                                                        October 18, 1992

                        Lenzy J. Bates                                                            Harmony #2                                                   November 6, 1992

                        Atlas Cole                                                                   Cassia #5                                                       January 25, 1993

                        Julius A. Headen, PM                                                 Cassia #5                                                        February 14, 1993

                        Eugene Roy, PM                                                        Abiff #37                                                          February 17, 1993

                        Reginald Davis                                                          Cassia #5                                                        February 23, 1993

                        Lucious Coward                                                        Harmony #2                                                    March 12, 1993

                        Joseph L. Wilson, PM                                               Harmony #2                                                    March 13, 1993

                        Keith C. Garner                                                         Jacob #86                                                       March 29, 1993

                        Preston J. Glaude                                                     Egyptian #44                                                   April 25, 1993

                        Robert L. Hughes                                                     Egyptian #44                                                   April 27, 1993

                        Gregory G. Lawson                                                  Herman E. Bradley #74                                  April28, 1993

                        Luther Ray Houston                                                 Cassia #5                                                       May 1, 1993

                        Clyde L. Williams                                                     Torii #46                                                         May 2, 1993

                        Albert Smith                                                             Olympus #45                                                  May 26, 1993

STATE OF THE CRAFT

All things considered, I am pleased to say for the most part, all of the lodges are doing fairly well. As most of you are aware, we are still experiencing a negative impact on our lodges in Europe, resulting from the drawn-down of our Military Forces. This was reported to us last year during our Annual Communications. We also reported at that time two lodges that had been impacted very hard and we were looking for areas to relocate. It saddens me to report today that we were unsuccessful and we must now officially close those lodges, New Light #67 and Joseph I. Staton #71. The brothers of those lodges have been absorbed by other lodges in the Jurisdiction. District Deputy Grand Master Andrew Morgan, Deputy for District #9 reported to me that with the continuation of the draw-down, we can expect to loose approximately fifty percent of our remaining lodges in Europe. We must continue to watch and monitor the situation. In the meantime we must also continue to look for other areas for possible growth.

During our visit in the Far East we found our lodges to be fairly stable. We did however learn that one of our lodges experienced some hard time resulting from hurricane damages that was Marianas Travelers #49, in Guam. They are doing much better now. Toni Lodge #46, Okinawa was still experiencing hard times do to the high cost for rented meeting space, approximately $1,100 monthly. As you may recall, Toni #46 was the only lodge we had in the Pacific Theater that was not recognized by the Military Base. I am proud to report today that situation no longer exists. It was a long and trying battle but we have prevailed. It goes to show that when you know you have right on your side, you should not retreat the cause.

Since I’m speaking from a positive note now, let me continue by saying that many of our stateside lodges are experiencing an increase in membership resulting from the reassignment of those effected by the European Military draw-down. As they say, “for every action there is a reaction.” Most Lodges in the 1-5 corridor from Olympia to Everett have benefited in one way or another, however some more than others. If you have been paying attention to what was and is still going on back at our Nation’s Capitol with the closing of our military bases across the country, we have been blessed. Military communities that have existed before many of us were born are now closing, from the East Coast to the West Coast, places like Fort Dix, and McGuire AFB in New Jersey to Fort Ord, and Travis AFB in California, and a host of others in between. We should be thankful and move on! And that is just what we are doing. For those who may not be aware, do to a lot of hard work by our brothers, P.M. Henry White, P.M. Patrick Hughes, P.M. Kenneth Brown and others, we now have four (4) U.D. Lodges in District #10, Republic of Korea. I will be recommending they be chartered during this Annual Communication. We are also looking at the establishment of a new study club in the near future in Mainland Japan, according to D.D.G.M. LeRoy Trent, District #6.

Also to assist our oversees Brothers, that they may have the same benefits that many of us take for granted here stateside. We now have established both in Germany and Korea Consistory bodies under the United Supreme Council, A.A.S.R. Masonry, Northern Jurisdiction, USA, Inc. I publicly today and once again thank Sovereign Grand Commander, Samuel Brogdon, Jr. for his time and understanding, but more especially his recommendation to the Council and its approval. I also wish to thank DDGM Andrew Morgan for his hard work in Germany and SDDGM Patrick Hughes for his hard work in Korea. Without their hard work it would not have come to be. We also now have Royal Arch Masonry in Korea for our brothers, and for that I want to thank P.M. Cleophus Chatman, Jr. for his support and assistance and again S.D.D.G.M Patrick Hughes.

These are just some of the things that are going within our crafts. We must continue to work, and improve our condition, I am confident that with the proper support of our future administrations they will carry us to even greater heights.

STATE OF THE NATION

It seems that it was just a short time ago that our country was involved in Desert Storm/Shield. From that we had major downsizing that economically affected communities globally. We had many brothers and sisters to serve in that conflict.  Today, we can see the formation of continued conflict in the same area where Desert Storm took place. Events happen dramatically and very quickly.

We go to bed at night thinking every thing is alright. We wake up the next morning, listen to the news or turn on the television and we find that all is not right with the world. This is still God’s world, but some people are not living right. They do not value human life and they do not endeavor to help the less fortunate to meet their basic needs.

It was very gratifying to see troops going into Somalia to help the starving brothers and sisters there. The disdain is that it took so long, and so many people suffered and died before help was sent. Make no mistake about it. They are our brothers and sisters. We are our brothers keepers. We are all in this world together.

There is still a fundamental political shift in priorities as it applies to Haitian refugees. We find that equality is not open to all oppressed people. It is noteworthy that the refugees who were detained at Guantanemo Bay will be released. Many injustices were endured there by these people, just because of the color of their skin and where they come from. Only people of color are required to have an HIV blood test to enter this country Double standards still apply.

The hurricane victims in Florida and Louisiana are still struggling and are trying to rebuild. Let us continue to help in any way we can.

It has been clearly demonstrated that it is not one’s socioeconomic level or one’s education that determines how justice will be served. Lana Guanier is a well educated woman and a friend to those in high places. Yet she was the “sacrificial lamb” thrown out to please the political pundits and the elitist who rule. It was the color of her skin that made the difference.

The N.A.A.C.P. has changed the reigns of leadership. Dr. Benjamin Hooks has stepped down and Dr. Chavis is now leading this great organization. Nationally and locally we

must continue to be involved and to be an integral part of the decision making process. Locally, Bro Herb Jones is serving on the City Council of Lacey, WA. We are qualified and empowered people, we can serve and help change our society. Get involved and be a part of the solution.

We as Masons must realize, that no matter what we achieve, or how far or how high we go, we will still be black people and we will still need to work harder, smarter and longer just to survive.

CONFERENCE OF GRAND MASTERS

During the month of May, accompanied by DGM Victor S. Baxter, I attended the Conference of Grand Masters held in the Jurisdiction of New Jersey, hosted by Grand Master Pittman.

The conference was very informative and well attended. Others present from our jurisdiction were David Archibald, Grand Secretary and his wife, Associate Grand Matron, Dorothy Archibald, Grand Worthy Matron JoAnn Houston, Grand Patron James “Rocky” Dallas, Associate Deputy Grand Patron Charles Murdaugh and his wife, Doris. There may have been others but I don’t recall who they were.

New officers were elected this year, Grand Master Howard Woods of Arkansas was elected Chairman of the Steering Committee and Grand Master Parker of North Carolina was elected as Vice Chairman. We also voted to accept the 45th Jurisdiction into the Prince Hall Family, the Jurisdiction of the Caribbean. They had a large number of their members present.

Overall, this was one of the better conferences; mostly everyone interacted with one another on a civil basis. This view was also shared by both Sovereign Grand Commanders, Brogdon and Clayborn and the Imperial Potentate Arthur Shack. Next year’s conference is scheduled to be held in Dallas, Texas.

FRATERNAL RELATIONS

I am pleased to report that fraternal relations are good. All Grand Bodies are working together harmoniously. I have enjoyed working with Grand Worthy Matron JoAnn Houston and Most Ancient Grant Matron Rubye McCullar.

I have again had an enjoyable working relationship with our Deputy of the Orient, Scottish Rite Masonry, Deputy James W. Davis. As you know he was very sick for a period of time, we give Thanks to God for his speedy and excellent recovery. Working with S.G.I.G Davis and S.G.I.G Frank Russell this year was very historical. As most of you are aware, the Orient and Jurisdiction of Washington hosted the United Supreme Council, NJ. for the first time ever, during its 112th Annual Session. It was one of the best sessions ever. The Sisters and Brothers of Washington Jurisdiction are to be commended for the excellent performance. As Grand Master, you made me very proud.

Our working relationship with the Grand Lodge of Washington continues to grow. We continue to exchange visitations, but now I feel more freely and to the point that both appear to be relaxed. This is not to say that we have reached perfection that would be far from the truth. There are still some on both sides that still have their shortcomings and bias. Racism and prejudice still exist in both camps! However, those of us that are for progress must continue to move on. With that, you will hear coming before you a resolution for Joint Recognition, for the Jurisdiction of Idaho. This resolution is similar to the one we passed with the Jurisdiction of Washington. I want to thank and commend Special Deputy Joe B. McNeal for his excellent work on this project.

I also want to report and happily so, that the concerns around the “Temple Association”, and the disagreements between Prince Hall Grand Chapter and Grand Lodge has been resolved once and for all. All monies have been paid and both organizations are content. This chapter in our long history is now officially closed.

CONCLUSION

As with the previous years, this past year has been full and fast. Much has been accomplished and yet there is much to do.

Over the past three years we have increased our number of lodges from 47 to 52 even as we were closing lodges, our membership from 2,563 to 3.024 (461 increase) as we were loosing members. Our youth organizations tripled and its membership doubled. We provided monetary relief to the hurricane victims of Florida and clothing relief to the Haitians of Guantanemo, Cuba (Thank you Special Deputy James E. Hayes for your insight). We have purchased invaluable property in both Bremerton and Tacoma, Washington. We have purchased Banners for all of our lodges to include our Grand Lodge. We have brought resolution to a conflict between our Grand Lodge and our Grand Chapter. We have established better working relationships with the communities in which we reside. Yet we still have so much to do. Like being kinder to one another, loving one another, having compassion and understanding, and being supportive of one another. Coming together, all working for a common cause. Things could be so much easier if we were all moving in the same direction.

We cannot afford to sit back and just look, and say let someone else do it, for we are the ones We must prepare and make ready for those to come, our future generations. We are living in some trying times. We don’t know what the future holds, but we know who holds the future, and He is going to hold us accountable for what we do and what we don’t do. Again, thank you for the honor, opportunity and privilege of serving this Great Jurisdiction.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Recommendation#1               Past Master Joseph Harrison be appointed Grand Photographer Emeritus.

Recommendation #2              Past Master Squire Moore, Jr. be appointed Grand Aide-de­ Camp Emeritus.

Recommendation #3              The election for subordinate lodges be changed to the month of June.

Recommendation #4              The recommendation coming from the Scholarship Investment Committee be adopted.

Recommendation #5              A committee be appointed to continue exploring means for the improvement of our Palmer Lake property.

Recommendation #6              The resolution for Masonic Recognition for the Jurisdiction of Idaho be approved.

Recommendation #7              The annual session (of this Grand Lodge) as required by article #3 of the Constitution, and title 50, section 50.02:01 of the By-Laws, places an increasing liability and responsibility on this Grand Lodge, the Comptroller Board and the Grand Master, as the Chief Executive officer.

The financial requirements and commitment required of the Grand Lodge relating to the operation and transaction of business for the MWPHGL is demanding.

I don’t envision the scope or the complexity of this responsibility or liability being reduced in the foreseeable future of this Grand Lodge.

Therefore, I recommend that a position of Convention Director be established by Law and Statute of the MWPHGL, effective August 1, 1993. The Convention Director shall be appointed by the Grand Master and work

out of the office of the Grand Lodge Secretary.

I  further recommend that a committee be appointed to write rules, regulations, and procedures governing this office.  This committees’ report shall be presented at the next Grand Lodge for adoption.

 (This position was originally initiated by Past Grand Master, Johnny Allen, but never established in law by the Grand Lodge.)

Recommendation #8  That Paster Master Elbert Timmes, who has served this jurisdiction with honor, be granted and appointed, Honorary Past Grand Master.

Recommendation #9 That the following four (4) U.D. lodges be chartered at this 90th Annual Communication: Sprig of Acacia U.D., Korea; Lion of Judah U.D., Korea; Guiding Light U.D., Korea; and II Corinthians U.D., Korea.

Fraternally Submitted,

/S/DANIEL L. LUNSFORD