THE CALIFORNIA ENCOMPASSER IS THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE GRAND YORK RITE BODIES OF CALIFORNIA AND

IS PUBLISHED QUARTERLY TO PROVIDE AN INFORMATION VEHICLE FOR THE MEMBERSHIP

Volume 25 June 2010 Number 2

What are the Allied Masonic Degrees?

The Allied Masonic Degrees, like the Masonic Rosicrucian's, is an organization based on interest and ability in Masonic research and scholarship. Membership is by invitation and is open to York Rite Companions who have completed the Chapter degrees. The local bodies are styled "Councils", and the national supervisory body is the Grand Council. Councils are presided over by a Sovereign Master, who is assisted by eight other officers. The structure and office titles of the Council are very similar to corresponding offices and ritual in the Blue Lodge. A Brother elected to preside over an AMD Council must receive the Installed Sovereign Master degree before he can be installed in that office.

The maximum number of active members of any Council is limited to 27. Some Councils are very selective, and in some cases, only two invitees per year are selected. Papers and discussions of Masonic and related topics are typically held at Council meetings. The AMD controls 10 degrees, but which ones (if any) are actually "worked" is decided by each Council for itself.

The Allied Masonic Degrees are detached degrees some of which, many years ago, were conferred under Craft warrants and formed part of the then loosely governed Freemasonry of the period. Many of these detached degrees became dormant in some places, although in others they were conferred as side degrees. In time, the better of these degrees were grouped together in an organized body under the title of Allied Masonic Degrees. The degrees comprising the system in our Jurisdiction in the U.S.A. are the Royal Ark Mariner, Secret Monitor, Knight of Constantinople, Saint Lawrence the Martyr, Architect, Superintendent, Grand Tilers of Solomon, Master of Tyre, Excellent Master, Installed Sovereign Master, Installed Commander Noah, Red Branch of Eri and Ye Ancient Order of Corks.

The highest honor that can be awarded to an AMD member by his Council is that of Knight of the Red Branch of Eri, given for unselfish and faithful service to his Council and/or the AMD. There are no set requirements, and each Council sets its own rules for selection. The Order is divided into three degrees, Man-at-Arms, Esquire, and Knight. The ritual is one of Irish knighthood and much of the phrases, terms, and names are couched in the Irish language

Upon joining, the candidate is given a preliminary lecture on the history, aims, and purposes of the AMD, then introduced into the Council room, takes a "blanket" obligation, and is taught the necessary signs. This is sufficient to make him a member of the AMD.

Teddy G. Hammack 156th Most Excellent Grand High Priest

was born to Archie and Ola Mae Hammack on April 27,, 1937 in El Centro California, the second of six children. His parents came to California from Oklahoma during the Dust Bowl Days of the Great Depression, subsequently, the early years of his life were spent traveling from job to job with his family, many times sleeping by the road side in a tent.

The family finally settled in Fresno and most of his school years were spent in Fresno schools. Ted was a pretty good student and a very fine athlete. He graduated from Clovis High School in 1956 and entered Fresno State College as a History Major and played baseball for the Bulldogs. He completed Graduate School 1962 with a teaching credential and started a successful teaching and coaching career of thirty seven years at Los Banos, Delano and Wasco High Schools.

Ted was introduced to the Masonic Lodge by his Father-in-law Lester Smith. He was made a Master Mason in 1967 in Wasco Lodge #583 and was Master in 1993, 1997. He served as Treasurer for twenty years, and Officers= Coach for five years. He was presented with the Hiram Award in 1998. He served Tehachapi Lodge #313 as Master in 2003 and 2004 and was Mason of the Year in 2006.

Ted joined the Bakersfield York Rite Bodies in 1991. He served Kern Valley Royal Arch Chapter #75 as High Priest in 1995 and 1996, Bakersfield Council #28 as Illustrious Master in 1994, and Bakersfield Commandery #39 as Eminent Commander in 1995. He is a member of The Knight York Cross Of Honor and served as Prior in 2008-09. He is a member of AMD and served as Sovereign Master. He is a Past Governor of St, Alban York Rite College. He served Grand Chapter as an Inspector and Deputy Grand Lecturer. He served Grand Commandery as an Inspector. Ted has received the Meritorious Service Award from Grand Chapter and Grand Commandery and the Ish Sodi award from Grand Council. He is a member of the Red Cross of Constantine.

Ted was appointed to the Grand Progressive Line of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of California by the late Most Excellent Grand High Priest Russell D. Roberts in 2006. He was installed a s Grand High Priest on May 26, 2009 in Bakersfield.

Ted joined the Bakersfield Scottish Rite Bodies in 1992, served as Commander in 2000 and Venerable Master in 2007. He was designated a Knight Commander Of The Court Of Honor in 2001.

Ted joined Al Malaikah Shrine Temple in 1992 and was President of the Kern County Shrine Club in 1999. He also served Tehachapi High Club as President three times and Area Vice President for five years.

Ted and Marianne have been married for seventeen years. His family consists of his son Andrew, daughter-in-law Susana, grandson Joseph and granddaughter Rebekah. Daughter Jennifer Fields, son-in-law Keith and grandson Kenny, and step-son Sean O=Banion.

GRAND CHAPTER ROYAL ARCH MASONS - 2010 GRAND CONVOCATION REPORT

GRAND OFFICERS

Grand High Priest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Teddy G. Hammack. . . . . . . . . . . . . Kern River Chapter No. 75 Grand King. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . James W. “Bill” Allen Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tyre Chapter No. 130 Grand Scribe.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Robert V. Wright, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oxnard Chapter No. 86 Grand Treasurer. . . . . . . . . . . . . Jerrold A. Wohlfarth, PGHP. . . . . . . . . . . Triangle Chapter No. 155 Grand Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kenneth G. Hope HPGHP . . . . . . . . . . . Triple Tau Chapter No. 33 Grand Lecturer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Frederick G. Kleyn III . . . . . . . . . . . . San Diego Chapter No. 61 Grand Chaplain North. . . . . . . . . . . . . Tommy L. Wells. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sonora Chapter No. 2 Grand Chaplain South. . . . . . . . . . . Daniel C. Kaffka Jr.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ventura Chapter No. 50 Grand Captain of the Host . . . . . . . . . Gary W. Spriggs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nevada Chapter No. 6 Grand Principal Sojourner. . . . . . . . . Jon D. Humphreys . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sacramento Chapter No. 3 Grand Royal Arch Captain . . . . . . . . Steven R. Goad. . . . . . . . . . . . Norris C. Viles Chapter No. 153 Grand Master of the Third Veil. . . . . . . Gary K. Jackson . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kern Valley Chapter No. 75 Grand Master of the Second Veil. . . . . Mike L. Szepfalvi . . . . . . . . . . . . Kern River Chapter No. 162 Grand Master of the First Veil . . . . . . . Robert L. Ludy Jr. . . . . . . . . Norris C. Viles Chapter No. 153 Grand Orator. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . Paul E. McCleary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tyre Chapter No. 130 Grand Marshal North. . . . . . .. . . . . . . . Leland G. Routt. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . Stockton Chapter No. 28 Grand Marshal South. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . Dennis T. Dyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oxnard Chapter No. 86 Grand Soloist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . E. Floyd Griffin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ventura Chapter No. 50 Grand Musician. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Venie R. Puntanilla . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tulare Chapter No. 71 Grand Sentinel . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . E. Leon Moynier. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kern Valley Chapter No. 75 Assistant Grand Secretary. . . . . . . . . Albert M. Lewis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Triple Tau Chapter No. 33

GENERAL GRAND CHAPTER ROYAL ARCH MASONS INTERNATIONAL AWARDS

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MEDAL IN BRONZE

Paul E. McCleary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tyre Chapter No. 130

SWEETHEART AWARD

Nancy Hardiman

GRAND CHAPTER ROYAL ARCH MASONS OF CALIFORNIA AWARDS GRAND HIGH PRIEST DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MEDAL

Sidney L. Pond. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . California Chapter No. 1 Robert A. Morrison. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chico Chapter No. 42 Richard E. Thornton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stockton Chapter No. 28 Dennis T. Dyer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oxnard Chapter No. 86 Richard D. Baskin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . San Diego Chapter No. 61

HIGH PRIEST OF THE YEAR

High Priest for the State. . . . . . . . . . . . Carlos E. Castro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Downey Chapter No. 157 High Priest of the Year Department #1. . . . Maximo Luy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oakland Chapter No. 36 High Priest of the Year Department #2 . . Ray C. Dunham. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chico Chapter No. 42 High Priest of the Year Department #3. . Kenneth R. Cotner. . . . . . . . . . . . Modesto Chapter No. 49 High Priest of the Year Department #5. . . . . Chad T. Snyder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . San Diego Chapter No. 61

SECRETARY OF THE YEAR

Secretary of the Year for the State. . . . . Milton M. Abbott Jr.. . . . . . . . . . . Humboldt Chapter No. 52 Secretary of the Year Department #1. . . . Randy R. Downey.. . . . . .. . . . . . . Howard Chapter No. 14 Secretary of the Year Department #3. . . Thomas G. McKinney. . . . . . . . Kern River Chapter No. 162 Secretary of the Year Department #4. . . Charles E. Williams. . . . . . . . . . Corinthian Chapter No. 51 Secretary of the Year Department #5. . . . . Dennis L. Ward. . . . . . . . . . . . . Keystone Chapter No. 56

DISTINGUISHED MEMBERSHIP AWARD Philip A. Hardiman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sacramento Chapter No. 3 Charles L. Schubert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . Orange County Chapter No. 73 Leland G. Routt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stockton Chapter No. 28 Honesto S. Valdez. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Signet Chapter No. 57

MEMBERSHIP EXCELLENCE AWARD

Carlos E. Castro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Downey Chapter No. 157 David B. Wehmeyer.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Downey Chapter No. 157 Chapter with the highest percentage increase in membership (31.3%). . . . . Oakland Chapter No. 36 Chapter with the highest number of new members (42) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Signet Chapter No. 57

RUSSELL D. ROBERTS PERPETUAL TROPHY

James G. Baum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . High Desert Chapter No. 127

RESOLUTIONS

Resolution 2010-1 To add a Code of By-Laws for the Grand High Priest Chapter . . . . . . . . . . Passed Resolution 2010-2 To clarify what bills need to be paid immediately without a vote. . . . . . . . . . Passed

Martin Frank McKeay 150th Most Illustrious Grand Master

was born on February 12, 1942 in Marysville, CA. His father, Robert J. McKeay served as Most Illustrious Grand Master in 1977. He attended Grammar School in Tomales and High School in Novato. He Attended Marin Junior College and then spent 3 years in the U.S. Army. He was discharged as a Sergeant E-5. He returned to Marin J.C. and received his A.A. degree and then went on to Sonoma College and received a B.A. in psychology. He went on to a Master of Arts in Counseling. He next attended the University of California Berkeley for his Adult Education Credential. He married his High school sweetheart Jacki and they have 4 children, Marty, Tim, Scott and Sheri, together with 4 grand children, Kimberly, Logan, Trey and Max.

He spent 5 years as a high school counselor and then went to work for Petaluma School District as a full time Adult Education instructor/director working with developmentally disabled adults for 25 years. He retired in 2005. He now enjoys salmon and steelhead fishing, golf, gardening, woodwork and his Masonic participation.

Masonic Organizations:

DEMOLAY Novato-Sejnior Counselor / International Supreme Council Order of DeMolay 25 year recognition / DeMolay Board 1987-1990; 1998-2001 / DeMolay Dad 1999-2001 RAINBOW Estraleta Rainbow Dad-1981 PETALUMA/HAMILTON MASONIC LODGE No.180 Initiated Petaluma Lodge #180 Jan 14, 1984 / Passed May 10, 1984 / Raised June 28, 1984 / Worshipful Master 1990 / Marshal 1993-present / President-Petaluma Hall Assoc. 1998-2009 / Hiram Award 11-15-2001 / Chair Person-Masonic float committee-Butter & Egg Parade 6 year, 2nd & 3rd places / Audit Committee YORK RITE - ROYAL ARCH Petaluma Chapter No. 22 Exalted 6-21-1986 High Priest 2003 / Treasurer- 2007-present / Participate-bi-annually in the Rainbow/R.A.M. Breakfast-Art & Garden RAM breakfast / Senior Deacon- Mark Master Degree Comptche Outdoor Degrees / Secretary-Comptche Outdoor Degrees Assoc. / Meritorious Service Award 11/07

COUNCIL Redwood Empire Council No. 46 Greeted 5-31-1997 Illustrious Master 2005 / Recipient-General Grand Council Adult Leadership Award 2001 GRAND COUNCIL Grand Chaplain 2002 / Grand Bible Bearer 2005 / Grand Council Grand Line-Sentinel/Steward 2006 / Deputy Grand Master 2009 COMMANDERY- Santa Rosa Commandery No. 14 Knighted 10-11-1997 Eminent Commander 2004 / Treasurer 2005-present KNIGHT YORK CROSS OF HONOUR San Francisco Priory No. 38 March 17, 2007 SCOTTISH RITE Santa Rosa Scottish Rite 32nd degree / Master of Ceremonies-Lodge of Perfection MEMBER Allied Masonic Degrees Sovereign Master-2009 / Aahmes Shrine / Aahmes Sonoma Co. Shriners Rod & Gun Club / York Rite Sovereign College / St. Philips Conclave - Red Cross of Constantine / Battalion & Bells / Eastern Star

GRAND COUNCIL CRYPTIC MASONS - 2010 GRAND ASSEMBLY REPORT

GRAND OFFICERS

Grand Master. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . Martin F. McKeay . . . . . . . . . . . Redwood Empire Council No. 46 Deputy Grand Master. . . . . . . . . Robert A. L. Whitfield. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oakland Council No. 12 Grand Principal Conductor the Work. . . Raymond D. Godeke . . . . . . Orange County Council No. 14 Grand Treasurer. . . . . . . . . . . . . James G. Baum, MIPGM . . . . . . . Redwood Empire Council No. 46 Grand Recorder. . . . . . . . . . . Kenneth G. Hope, (H)MIPGM. . . . . . . . . . . . Shekinah Council No. 35 Grand Director of Ritual . . . . . . . . Fenton R. Mereness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . San Jose Council No. 20 Grand Chaplain (North).. . . . . . . . . . . David A. Lopez . . . . . . . . . . . Redwood Empire Council No. 46 Grand Chaplain (South) . . . . . . . . . . Harvey B. Lyman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alpha Council No. 39 Grand Captain of the Guard. . . . . . Richard W. Williamson . . . . . . . . King Solomon’s Council No. 29 Grand Conductor of the Council . . . . . David L. Chesebro . . . . . . . . San Luis Obispo Council No. 38 Grand Steward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brett A. MacDonald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shekinah Council No. 35 Grand Sentinel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Henry Clayton Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . King Solomon’s Council No. 29 Grand Orator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Edward W. Sadler. . . . . . . . . . . Redwood Empire Council No. 46 Grand Marshal (North). . . . . . . . .. . . Guy M. Chalmers . . . . . . . . . . Redwood Empire Council No. 46 Grand Marshal (South) . . . . . . . . . Robert W. McNamara. . . . . . . . . . Orange County Council No. 14 Grand Soloist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K. Mark Harris. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oakland Council No. 12 Grand Organist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eric T. Sadler. . . . . . . . . . . . Redwood Empire Council No. 46 Grand Bible Bearer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . David P. Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gateway Council No. 13 Grand Standard Bearer. . . . . . . . . . Richard A. Fonseca. . . . . . . . . Redwood Empire Council No. 46 Assistant Grand Recorder. . . . . . . . . . Albert M. Lewis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shekinah Council No. 35

GENERAL GRAND COUNCIL CRYPTIC MASONS INTERNATIONAL AWARDS

Cryptic Mason of the Year. . . . . . . . Fenton R. Mereness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . San Jose No. 20 Adult Leadership Award. . . . . . . . . . George F. Whitten. . . . . . . . Redwood Empire Council No. 46

GRAND COUNCIL CRYPTIC MASONS OF CALIFORNIA AWARDS

GRAND MASTER of ISH SODI AWARD

Mark H. Rose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Redwood Empire Council No. 46 Don E. Lamoureux . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gateway Council No. 13 Leland G. Routt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stockton Council No. 10 A. Sherman Ostrom. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alpha Council No. 39 Brett A. MacDonald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shekinah Council No. 35 Richard W. Bullard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . San Diego Council No. 23

ILLUSTRIOUS MASTER OF THE YEAR

Andrew B. Pippin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ventura Council No. 15

RECORDER OF THE YEAR

Gordon G. “Bud” Warder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oakland Council No. 12

DISTINGUISHED MEMBERSHIP AWARD

Philip A. Hardiman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sacramento Chapter No. 3 Charles L. Schubert. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Orange County Chapter No. 73 Leland G. Routt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stockton Chapter No. 28 Honesto S. Valdez. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Omega Council No. 11 Carlos H. Gonzalez. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Omega Council No. 11

MEMBERSHIP EXCELLENCE AWARD

Eduardo Estrada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Omega Council No. 11 Council with the highest percentage increase in membership (16.4%) . . . . . Oakland Council No. 12 Council with the highest increase in number of members (48). . . . . . . . . . . . . Omega Council No. 11

RITUALIST OF THE YEAR

Ritualist for the State. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Scott R. Colcord. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oakland Council No. 12 Ritualist for Department 2. . . . . . . . . . Gregory A. Voetsch Jr.. . . . . . . . . Sacramento Council No. 1 Ritualist for Department 4. . . . . . . . . . . . Cirilo P. Marquez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Omega Council No. 11 Ritualist for Department 5 . . . . . . . . . . . Harold D. Kennedy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Foothill Council No. 42

2010 RESOLUTIONS

Resolution 2010-1 To clarify what bills need to be paid immediately without a vote . . . . . . . . . Passed Resolution 2010-2 To revise the Constitution regarding Investment of Funds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Passed

David Joseph Kussman, KTCH, KYGCH R.E. GRAND COMMANDER 2010-2011 GRAND COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLAR

OF CALIFORNIA Sir Knight David Joseph Kussman was born on Easter Sunday morning, April 5,

1953 in Houston, Texas. His parents, Frederick Joseph Kussman Jr. and Hazel Evelyn Kussman, were active in the Masonic fraternity in Houston, and also in Southern California, where they moved in 1955. Sir Knight Kussman was raised in Anaheim, California, where he attended public schools and graduated from Loara High School in 1971.

Sir Knight Kussman began working for the Anaheim Police Department in November 1971 while also attending Fullerton College and August Vollemer University pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice. He retired from the City of Anaheim as a Police Sergeant in July 2004. He remained working as a Consultant for the Police Department, coordinating the Reserve Unit and Police Chaplains until July 2005.

Sir Knight Kussman met the former Kimberly Ann Schmidt, while she worked at the Police Department and they were married on June 18, 1988. The Kussman’s were blessed with three children, Jennifer (21), Stephanie (19) and David Jr. (15). The Kussman Family fellowships at Plaza Bible Church in Orange, California, where Sir Knight Kussman has served as an Elder and two terms on the Church Council.

In the Symbolic Blue Lodge, Sir Knight Kussman was Initiated, Passed and Raised in Mother Colony Lodge No. 750, Free and Accepted Masons. His Lodge consolidated in 1991 where he served as Worshipful Master. He now holds membership in Anaheim Lodge No 207. He is a member of the Southern California Past Masters Association, Southern California Research Lodge, Orange County Research Lodge and Texas Lodge of Research.

In York Rite, Capitular Masonry, Sir Knight Kussman was Exalted in Fullerton Chapter No. 90, Royal Arch Masons and served as High Priest and Treasurer. He was Consecrated into the Order of High Priesthood. His service to the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of California includes, Ritual Instructor and Inspector. Sir Knight Kussman was honored by the Grand Chapter Of California with the Meritorious Service Award and the Distinguished Service Award.

In York Rite, Cryptic Masonry, Sir Knight Kussman was Greeted in Santa Ana Council No. 14, Cryptic Masons and served as Illustrious Master and Treasurer. He was received as a Thrice Illustrious Master, and served as the Thrice Illustrious Master in the Order of the Silver Trowel. His service to the Grand Council of Cryptic Masons of California includes, Ritual Instructor, Inspector and Assistant Director of Ritual. Sir Knight Kussman was honored by the Grand Council of California with the Ish Sodi Award.

In York Rite, Chivalric Masonry, Sir Knight Kussman was Knighted in Fullerton Commandery No. 55 Knights Templar and served as Commander and Treasurer. He joined the Drill Team in Golden West Commandery No. 43 and was presented a lifetime membership. He was Captain of the Drill Teams of Fullerton Commandery, now Orange County Commandery No. 36 for seventeen years and was honored with the distinction of Drill Captain Emeritus. He is also a member of Los Angeles’ Commandery No. 9 award winning Triennial Drill Team. Sir Knight Kussman was received into the California Past Commanders Association, and served a Virtual Past Commander and Recorder. His service to the Grand Commandery of California includes, Ritual Instructor, Inspector, Assistant Director of Ritual, Committee on Competitive Drill, Committee on Uniforms and Jewels, Committee on Finance and Committee on Time and Place. He is the Representative to the Grand Commandery of Texas. Sir Knight Kussman was honored by the Grand Commandery with the Meritorious Service Medal and by The Grand Encampment with the Knight Templar Cross of Honor.

Sir Knight Kussman received the degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry in the Orient of California, Valley of Santa Ana. He served as Master of Kadosh in 2008 and was selected as a Fellow by the Supreme Council of the Southern Jurisdiction for the term 2008-2010. He was invested with the Rank and Decoration of Knight Commander of the Court of Honour.

His membership in appendant and invitational orders includes: Ordained a Knight Priest in Saint John the Baptist Tabernacle LXVI, Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests. He served as Preceptor and was Ordained a Knight Commander; He is currently serving a Registrar. Initiated into Southern California York Rite College No. 110 where he served as Governor. He was elevated to the Rank of Associate Regent (Order of the Purple Cross). He is a life member of Los Angeles Priory No. 26 and Fresno Priory No 71. Knights of the York Cross of Honor. He is currently serving as Warder in Fresno Priory. Invited and initiated into Saint Croix Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine. He is currently serving a Viceroy. He was Received and Admitted a IV Grade in California College, Societas Rosicruciana in Civitatibus Foederatis. Sir Knight Kussman is a member of Brian Boru Council No. 38 Knight Masons, where he has

served as Excellent Chief. He was honored with the Order of Brian’s Harp. He is a member of Orange Coast Council, Allied Masonic Degrees, where he has served as Sovereign Master and received the Knight Red Branch or Eri. He is a member of Lone Star Chapel No. 45 Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon. He was advanced and promoted a Knight Companion of the Royal Order of Scotland, and is a member of the Robert the Bruce Association of California. Sir Knight Kussman is a member of Ami-Tai Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star.

GRAND COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLAR - 2010 GRAND CONCLAVE REPORT

GRAND OFFICERS

Grand Commander. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . David J. Kussman. . . . . Orange County Commandery No. 36 Deputy Grand Commander . . . . . . . . . Casey W. Norris. . . . . . . . . . . Vacaville Commandery No. 38 Grand Generalissimo . . . . . . . . . Howard W. “Bud” Ramsey . . . . . . San Jose Commandery No. 10 Grand Captain General. . . . . . . . . . . . Myron A. Tisdel. . . . . . . . . . . . . Redding Commandery No. 50 Grand Senior Warden. . . . . . . . . . . . Carlos H. Gonzalez . . . . . . . . . Los Angles Commandery No. 9 Grand Junior Warden. . . . . . . . . . . . Fenton R. Mereness . . . . . . .. . . Vacaville Commandery No. 38 Grand Prelate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thomas M. Boles . . . . . . . . Golden West Commandery No. 43 Grand Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O. Reed Bollin, PGC. . . . . . . Golden West Commandery No. 43 Grand Recorder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kenneth G. Hope, HPGC . . . . . Golden West Commandery No. 43 Grand Standard Bearer . . . . . . . . . Stephen E. Alderete. . . . . . . . . St. Bernard Commandery No. 23 Grand Sword Bearer. . . . . . . . . . . . Harold N. “Hal” Barker. . . . . . . . . . Auburn Commandery No. 52 Grand Warder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thomas N. Thomas . . . . . . . . . . . Whittier Commandery No. 51 Grand Sentinel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thomas R. Derby . . . . . . Orange County Commandery No. 36 Organist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ernesto C. Balba, Jr.. . . . . . . . . . Pomona Commandery No. 37

GRAND ENCAMPMENT KNIGHTS TEMPLAR OF THE U.S.A. AWARDS

KNIGHT TEMPLAR CROSS OF HONOR

Raymond D. Godeke . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Orange County Commandery No. 36

KNIGHT COMMANDER OF THE TEMPLE

Paul E. McElwain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Los Angeles Commandery No. 9 Kenneth G. Nagel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . San Jose Commandery No. 10 Paul D. Hennig. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . California Commandery No. 1

COMPANION OF THE TEMPLE

Lady Kathy Miller Lady Marilyn Wordlow

GRAND COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLAR OF CALIFORNIA AWARDS

COMMANDER OF THE YEAR

Guy M. Chalmers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Santa Rosa Commandery No. 14

RECORDER OF THE YEAR

Richard W. Williamson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vacaville Commandery No. 38

DISTINGUISHED MEMBERSHIP AWARD Charles L. Schubert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Orange County Commandery No. 36 Leland G. Routt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stockton Commandery No. 8 Carlos H. Gonzalez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Los Angeles Commandery No. 9 Honesto S. Valdez. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Los Angeles Commandery No. 9

MEMBERSHIP EXCELLENCE AWARD Eduardo Estrada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Los Angeles Commandery No. 9 Commandery with the highest percentage increase (12.5%). . . Imperial Valley Commandery No. 54 Commandery with highest increase in the number of members (47)Los Angeles Commandery No. 9

DRILL TEAM COMPETITION Class "B” Champion. . . . . . . . Los Angeles Commandery No. 9. . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 932 points Class “C” 1st Place. . . . . . . Orange County Commandery No. 36. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 920 points Class "C" 2nd Place. . . . . . . . California Commandery No. 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 904 points Class "D" Champion. . . . . . Golden West Commandery No. 43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 978 points

CROSS & CROWN AWARD

Commandery of the Year for Department 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Orange Country Commandery No. 36 Commandery of the Year for Department 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Los Angeles Commandery No. 9 Commandery of the Year for Department 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ventura Commandery No. 18 Commandery of the Year for Department 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . California Commandery No. 1 Commandery of the Year for Department 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vacaville Commandery No. 38 Commandery of the Year for Department 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Quincy-Lassen Commandery No. 13

COMMANDERY OF THE YEAR

Quincy-Lassen Commandery No. 13

OUTSTANDING MEMBERS OF THE RITUAL STAFF

Sir Knight Robert W. Holder

RESOLUTIONS Resolution 2010-1 permits the wearing of the York Rite Service bar on the Templar uniform . . Passed Resolution 2010-2 To revise the Constitution regarding Investment of Funds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Passed Resolution 2010-3 To clarify what bills need to be paid immediately . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Passed