You don’t have to be Scottish to celebrate Robbie Burns Night.
Make your reservation now for the dinner, one of Bytown Lodge’s annual Signature Events, Saturday, January 18, 2025.
This event is formal dress, open to friends and loved ones, and will sell out shortly.
Date: January 18, 2025
Doors open: 6:00 PM
Dinner: 7:00 PM
Tickets: $40 each
You can purchase your tickets online by eTransfer to bytown721@gmail.com.
For more information email us at bytown721@gmail.com.
The brethren of Bytown Lodge cast their ballots April 18th for a new slate of officers, which included recently raised MMs who are filling in the long vacant stewards’ chairs, and up the line to assume other officer positions. The elections coincided with step-up night, which gave the brethren an opportunity to prove themselves in their new chairs. By any measure, the evening was a success, and showed that the newly-elected officers are ready for their new assignments. You will find a list in the About section of the website.
We wish them good luck and thank them for their dedication to the Craft.
DUES INCREASE
Our annual membership dues were increased to $275 at the end of the 2023 calendar year to help offset overall increasing costs, largely due to the departure of two of our sister lodges from the Westboro Masonic Hall. If you have any questions, you may contact our Lodge Secretary, Bro. Brodie Fraser, by email at: bytown722@gmail.com.
CAL BELLAMY MEMORIAL CHILI COOK OFF
The lodge dining room was packed with chili testers and tasters April 26th, for the annual Cal Bellamy Chili Cook Off.
There was a generous offering of seven different chilis this year, ranging from mild to “Five Alarm Spicy.” The first-place winner in the Judge’s Choice category was R.W. Bro. Charles Singh from Ionic Lodge; and the first-place winner in the Peoples’ Choice category was our own Worshipful Master’s spouse, Mrs. Holly Hawkins.
Prizes included a selection of beautiful hand-made kitchen boards donated by V.W. Bro. Scott Macdonald, and a bottle of rum, from W. Bro. Ernest Nelson.
More than $1,200 was raised and another 25 percent donated by the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario. The proceeds went to the Ottawa District 2 charity, Cornerstone Housing for Women.
WESTBORO MASONIC TEMPLE TO RECEIVE HERITAGE DESIGNATION
‐By Charlie Senack
The century-old Westboro Masonic Hall was one of five buildings the City of Ottawa’s Built Heritage Committee gave the stamp of approval on January 16, 2024.
The two-storey red brick building located at 430 Church Ave. N.*will almost certainly get full heritage designation when it goes before council. Built in 1924, city staff argued it’s a “representative example of a purpose-built masonic temple featuring integrated masonic symbols,” and is “associated with growth of Freemasonry in Ottawa.”
The building, with its symmetrical front façade, central bay, parapet roof and stone inserts, was designed by Hugh Archibald Richards and William James Abra of local architectural firm Richards and Abra.
Its official name “Ionic Acacia,” is carved on a stone plaque. Ionic was an order of ancient Greek architecture and acacia is a flowering tree which, with corn, is used in masonic emblems.
Westboro resident David Keynes, who has lived in the community for 45 years, was a delegate in support of the heritage designation. He said it has strong historical ties in Westboro Village.
“This is definitely a landmark. It really stands out,” said James, noting his great-great-grandfather was a stonemason. “The architects were both residents of Island Park. It has been a presence in the neighbourhood, initially built by two masonic lodges. By 2005, it was actually home to five different masonic lodges.”
Inside, the lodge room is decked out with old Masonic carpets, charters, and posters of King Solomon and other worthies, alongside other paraphernalia from between the wars.
The City of Ottawa is currently in a mad dash to save its historical buildings through designation before the end of the year. About 4,600 buildings currently make up the Heritage Registry List, which means the city must be notified at least 60 days before any potential demolition takes place. Out of those, 700 have been labelled “most critical.”
Whichever buildings don’t make the cut to be designated under the Ontario Heritage Act by the end of December, will be removed from the list for at least five years.
That is due to the More Homes Built Faster Act, which the Doug Ford-led provincial government enacted in 2022. The new changes could open up the historic properties to the possibility of demolition in favour of development.
Staff from Ottawa’s Heritage Department said they are looking to save properties from both suburban, urban and rural areas of the city. They are focusing on diverse styles, stories and neighbourhoods.
OUR NEW BULLETIN & SUMMONS ARCHIVE
What was Bytown Lodge Doing in 1969? You can now read for yourself in our archive.
Back issues of the Bytown Bulletin and summonses have been digitized for posterity. Some of the summonses go back to 1969—the year Bytown Lodge was founded. Though the documents look quite different than today, they offer a nostalgic peek at our lodge’s history.
The bulletin had humble beginnings. It was typewritten, which speaks to the limited layout options at the time.
Perhaps one of the most cherished documents is an invitation to the Ceremony of Institution dated September 15, 1969.
The Bytown Bulletin’s first issue was introduced to members on January 16, 1975. The names in the original documents will be familiar to charter members, and in subsequent issues, many of the names will be familiar to current lodge brethren.
You can browse the new archives through this link.
SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT OUR BANQUET FACILITIES
Do you know anyone who is looking for a dinner or reception hall for social events?
Our temple building is a popular spot for private get-togethers of all sorts. Here is some information about our facilities that you can share with friends and family:
Type of events:
Birthday parties
Baby showers
Weddings
Banquets
Celebration of life
Business seminars
Capacity:
100 officially – for a stand-up reception
90 – for a sit-down dinner without dance floor
80 – for a sit-down dinner with dance floor
Our facilities have everything clients could want, including a fully stocked bar with beer, wine, liquor and soda large kitchen facilities for food preparation, a fridge, gas stove with oven, an industrial convection oven, stove, and commercial dishwasher. Events can be catered or pot luck. We do not offer food services.
The rental cost options depend on the length of the event, optional amenities and which days are requested. The rate for a Saturday gathering will be higher due to the popularity of weekend events.
For any rental on site, facility management is required, as well as security or a bartender depending on event type and size. As with other facilities, the sooner renters book a spot the better; whether the event is days away or next year.
For more information, potential clients can reach us by telephone at: 613-454-5831 or by email at eventswmtl@gmail.com.
ODDS & ENDS
It was “standing room only” on February 24, 2024, for a Day of Masonry hosted by Ottawa District1.
Some 135 brethren were there, along with Most Worshipful Brother Thomas W. Hogeboom, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario.
A group of three brethren from Bytown Lodge attended the event, pictured here with Most Worshipful Brother Thomas W. Hogeboom, third from the left.
A delegation from Bytown Lodge visited Cobden lodge (above), and once more, took home the Travelling Trowel.
Other lodges will have to go a long way to beat our attendance.
Lodge News
Website Update
Our Bytown Lodge website is slated for an update that will make it more attractive and functional. Among changes will be a members’ section, which we will be able to access with a password. This will enable us to post and share photos from our events. We’ll keep you posted.
Dues Increase
Our annual membership dues are increasing $25 at the end of the 2024 calendar year, to help offset costs associated with a growing tax burden and the departure of two of our sister lodges from the building. Our dues for 2025 will be $275. Affiliation and degree fees are also going to increase. If you’d like to pay your dues or tickets for any of our lodge events, you can eTransfer the funds to bytown721@gmail.com. It is quick and convenient.
Message From the East
Hello Brethren!
We are approximately at the halfway point of the Masonic Year, and if the second half is anything like the first half we are in for a real treat!
First off, I would like to thank all of the officers and members of Bytown lodge for all of their help so far this year. They say many hands make light work, and I must say that has never been more evident in Bytown Lodge than the last couple of years.
Not only have the Past Masters group been instrumental in ensuring we are well fed if the Junior Warden is out of the country, but they are also spending many hours of their time assisting with preparing food for our social events, like our Robbie Burns Supper. A big thanks to V.W. Bro. Macdonald and V.W. Bro. Ingraham and all those who have assisted them with these endeavors! Our thanks also goes out to Bro. Sandy Mackie who has worked so hard to make our Robbie Burns Supper the signature event it has become. His tireless efforts have added a touch of authenticity to the evening that would not be possible without him.
I would also like to recognize Bro. Kyle Walden and Bro. Spencer Jay-Leafloor. Although they are relatively new members, they have made an immediate impact on the lodge. They have been meeting with the Entered Apprentice Masons to mentor and assist them in preparing to be passed to the second degree. Bro. Walden has also been putting together a document that will assist new Masons with the myriad of questions they have after being initiated.
Thank you to W. Bro. Brodie Fraser and Bro. Schwartz for all they do on the communications committee. Time and again new members mention our website, and that it was a draw for them. Thank you, gentleman for the time you put into Bytown outside of the meetings.
To be honest, all members of the lodge have been so helpful and eager to assist. Whether it be filling in for an absent brother at a meeting or assisting in cleanup after the meeting, every single member of this lodge has been eager to assist when called upon. As Master of this lodge, it makes my job easy, but more especially it makes me incredibly proud to call myself a member of Bytown Lodge!
We were also able to secure the Travelling Trowel when we had the most visitors (9, technically 10) at the official visit of the DDGM to The Builders Lodge. What made the feat so impressive was that there were nearly 100 Masons in attendance.
It certainly feels like we are headed in the right direction, and I am so happy to be a part of it.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
VW Bro Jeff Hawkins
Worshipful Master, Bytown Lodge No. 721
Travelling Trowel
The Travelling Trowel was returned to Bytown Lodge #721 January 15, 2024 at a DDGM evening at Builder’s Lodge. The competition wasn’t even close. Five of our brethren brought our good wishes to the event, once again making us the proud holders of the trowel.
Though not recognized as a standard working tool in our rituals, the trowel is described in some Masonic jurisdictions as “…an instrument made use of by operative masons to spread the cement which unites a building into one common mass; but we as Free and Accepted Masons are taught to make use of it for the more noble and glorious purpose of spreading the cement of brotherly love and affection; that cement which unites us into one sacred band, or society of friends and brothers, among whom no contention should ever exist, save that noble contention, or emulation, of who best can work and best agree.”
In Memoriam
Bro. John Lyndon
1942-2023
It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful but sudden passing of John Lyndon on August 28, 2023, at the age of 81.
John, the only son to the late George Lyndon and the late Annie Ferguson Reid, was a passionate world traveller and fiercely proud Scot. Known as the “Paisley Buddy”, John was a member of Bytown Masonic Lodge 721 and the Ottawa Falcons Soccer Club.
Brother Lyndon was Initiated October 2, 2007, Passed December 16, 2009, and Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason November 17, 2010.
John was a favourite for conferring the Blessing of the Haggis at the annual Robbie Burns Night dinner. (Below right)
When not off travelling the world or teaching in China, he shared life’s simple pleasures with his family and friends, cooking fabulous meals and providing endless laughs with his signature humour and unique “Jack Nicholson” personality.
Masonic Education
Italy’s P2 Lodge: A Most Unmasonic Lodge
What happens when a lodge loses its path and becomes a cabal of influential people conspiring and committing an impressive roster of crimes involving billions of dollars?
There was such a lodge in Italy called P2 – Propaganda Due. It received its charter in 1877 and was initially a just, regular, lawfully constituted and recognized Masonic lodge under the jurisdiction of the Grand Orient of Italy.
In the mid-20th century, P2 changed dramatically. It became rife with corruption, criminal enterprises, and was embroiled in scandals, political intrigue, misuse of finances, and potentially, murder. P2 had become a clandestine and unauthorized Masonic organization, operating in secret and without the approval of Masonic authorities.
The activities at this corrupt lodge had far-reaching consequences.
In 1981, somebody discovered a list of a P2 members, including powerful players, high-ranking politicians, military officers, and business leaders, hence, these brothers in a sense did control a nation and its institutions. It has been argued that members of this lodge used freemasonry for its planning and execution.
It was the sort of scenario conspiracy theorists might use as an example of Freemasons controlling the world.
Which brings us to a former brother by the name of Licio Gelli, a financier, politician and member of P2.
Gelli was involved with Banco Ambrosiano, which was replete with cash and shady players, including the considerable investments of the Vatican. Ambrosiano and its principals were referred to in the media as “God’s Bankers,” because of their extensive involvement with the Holy See.
As a high-ranking banker, he had the means to help the P2 spread its cancer into the Italian financial and political systems, and the goings on at that lodge included embezzlement, misuse of funds, theft, money laundering and crimes involving the Vatican’s deposits. (Continued on next page)
This brings us back to then-brother Gelli, the number two man at Banco Ambrosiano, a brother-banker which is not unheard of.
However, Gelli’s superior, the number 1 man at Banco Ambrosiano and associate of the Freemason Licio Gelli, Roberto Calvi, was found hanging from the Black Friar’s bridge in London with cash stuffed into his pockets.
There was much speculation as to who was responsible. At this point P2 was a mess and tied to organized crime on several levels.
The only thing authorities agreed on was that the cause of Calvi’s death was murder and manner of death was strangulation.
Little distinction was made in the news media between a lawful lodge and an irregular or clandestine lodge like P2. It is widely believed Calvi’s murder was likely a settling of accounts because of him cheating the wrong people. The money stuffed in his pockets served as a warning to others with similar intentions.
Once the story broke, it led to public outrage and investigations. Justice took over and the lodge was completely disbanded in 1982.
Thankfully, hopefully, it was a rare aberration.
Bro. Howard Schwartz
Brethren,
It is hard to believe that it was only 6 months ago that I was installed as the Worshipful Master of Bytown Lodge.
WM, Bytown Lodge
I would like to start by welcoming our new brethren Emrah and Michel to the craft and our Lodge.
These past months have been full of activities, laughs and work, yet more of these will come with our annual Robbie Burns event on January 18, our official visit on February 20 and our annual chili cook-off on April 26 . It is true what has been told to me that “the year will go by so fast and once you figure you have a handle on things, your term is over.”
As we look back on the activities of the past months and look to the events over the next few, I want to take this opportunity to wish you all a safe and happy holiday season. As our order is made up of many faiths, the one connective string that binds us all together is humanity, love and hope.
Sincerely & Fraternally,
W. Bro. Peter Ruttan
Worshipful Master, Bytown Lodge
September, 2023
Brethren convened for the Ninth Regular Meeting on May 18, 2023, at 7:30 p.m., which began with a social hour and Festive Board that was well attended by visitors. The work of the evening was the Ceremony of Installation & Investiture of Officers for 2023-2024.
Master: V.W. Bro. Jeff Hawkins Immediate
Past Master: W. Bro. Jean-François Legault
Senior Warden: Bro. Peter Ruttan
Junior Warden : Bro. Jon Orazietti
Chaplain: W. Bro. Ernest Nelson
Treasurer: V.W. Bro. Scott Macdonald
Secretary: W. Bro. Brodie Fraser
Senior Deacon: Bro. Howard Schwartz
Junior Deacon: Bro. Colin Boche
Director of Ceremonies: Bro. Cameron Arnot
Tyler: Bro. Sandy Mackie
In his last Message from the East, our now Immediate Past Master Jean–François Legault expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the support he received from the brethren during his term, and summed-up his year as Worshipful Master with a reminder of the successes of Bytown Lodge. “Collectively, we have shown once again that Bytown Lodge is alive, vibrant, inclusive, and espouses the true values and tenets of freemasonry.”
June 2023
Our lodge’s Social and Entertainment Committee arranged three events for the summer months, beginning with the annual BBQ, June 12th at Constance Bay, hosted by W. Bro. Brodie Fraser and his mom Jan.
New brethren and prospective candidates enjoyed their first taste of our annual event’s fellowship
and food.
Our thanks to Jan and W. Bro. Fraser for their warm hospitality.
July & August 2023
There were two casual evening gatherings overt the summer, July 12th at Local Heroes Pub, and at Pub Italia August 24th.
Bytown Lodge’s signature social events offer the opportunity to spend more time together in a less formal setting than usual, and celebrate one of the key pillars of our craft: fellowship.
Many thanks to V.W. Bro. George Ingraham for his hard work planning our social and entertainment events.
September 14, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. An in-person CGP meeting followed by a practice.
September 21, 2023, at 7:30 p.m.The first Regular Meeting, preceded by a social hour at 6:00 p.m., and followed by a Festive Board at 6:30 p.m.
September 23, 2023, 12 p.m. Annual Owl’s Head Mountain Degree
Golden Rule Lodge No.5 welcomes all Master Masons to attend its famous Owl’s Head Mountain Degree.
Date: September 23,2023. The degree is set to begin at high twelve.
Dress Code: Informal attire, jeans, etc. Dress comfortably for the weather and the ascent up the mountain. Masonic aprons and dues cards are required. You’ll also want to bring a cushion to sit on.
Cost: Tickets are $20 for a journey up the mountain by chairlift. We’ll then walk 100 metres to the base of the upper mountain. Note that there is a very uneven walk up a hill where a rope is required to pull yourself up the last 20 metres.
If you intend to go to Owl’s Head, V.W. Bro. George Ingraham is coordinating transportation to and from the event. If you wish to participate, please contact him no later than September 15, 2023; you may reach him by email at george.ingraham64@gmail.com.
I hope you all had a wonderful summer and had a chance to relax and spend some quality time with those nearest and dearest.
R.W. Bro. Charles Singh was also elected to the Board of General Purposes, so a great day for Ottawa District 2!
We will be hitting the ground running this year as we have a couple of Third Degrees currently lined up for the fall: one at our Regular Meeting in September, and another at our Emergent Meeting in October. It will be great to have a couple of young new Master Masons to assist in the lodge.
The Long-range Planning Committee has sent a survey to all of the brethren. If you haven’t already, please fill it out—it will only take a minute and the information provided could be crucial in planning for the future of Bytown Lodge.
This year we will again be focusing on our signature events: our annual Robbie Burns Night will coincide with the Official Visit from our District Deputy Grand Master at our Regular Meeting on January 18, 2024, and the Cal Bellamy Memorial Chili Cook Off is scheduled for April 26, 2024.
I am very much looking forward to getting started with the year. If you ever have any questions or concerns, I sincerely encourage you to reach out.
Sincerely & Fraternally,
V.W. Bro. Jeff Hawkins
Worshipful Master, Bytown Lodge #721
In future issues of the Bulletin, we’ll include some Masonic Education articles on various topics. In the meantime, you can always turn to the Grand Lodge website for resources.
In an effort to publish richer content, feel free to send any photos you take at lodge events or after degrees, to bytownbull@gmail.com.
Bro. Howard Schwartz
Editor
Opening Comments from the Editor
In the previous issue we informed you, the reader, that we would be making a change to the publication dates of our bulletin. To recap, the publication of this bulletin it will change from four times per year to three times per year to allow for more substantial issues to be produced.
The new dates, starting in 2023 will cover the periods:
January-February-March-April – Issued in June
May-June-July-August – Issued in September
September-October-November-December – Issued in February
In closing I would like to announce that this will be my last issue as editor. My life has gotten a little more intense lately and in order for me to stay within my cable tow and ensure that I can serve Bytown Lodge properly as well as my personal and professional obligations I must turn over this project. Brother Howard Schwartz has agreed to take on the job of this bulletin, and I am grateful for that offer.
S&F, Bro. Peter Ruttan, UE,CD
Lodge News
January
January 19, 2023, was our first night of the new calendar year and what a better way to celebrate than with our annual Robert Burns Dinner. Prior to the dinner, Lodge was opened at 6:00 p.m. under Grand Lodge Dispensation to allow the dinner festivities to take place in good time. Lodge was opened and Grand Honours were given first to visiting current and past Grand Lodge Officers, followed by the District Deputy Grand Master. Thank you to Bro. Colin Bosche for leading the Grand Honours twice. Regular Lodge business was conducted with the usual proceedings and reports.
The DDGM introduced his delegation of present and past Grand Lodge Officers, followed by the visitors introducing themselves.
Bro. Howard Schwartz was invested by Worshipful Master Jean-Francois Legault as the Lodge’s Junior Deacon.
The Travelling Trowel was presented to Defenders Lodge followed by a short talk by the DDGM on the long-term sustainability of masonry. Lodge was closed at 7:30 p.m. and all proceeded to the banquet hall for the Robert Burns Dinner.
The dinner consisted of roast beef and haggis, “neeps” and more.
Our Master of Ceremonies was Bro. Sandy Mackie.
February
February 16 Lodge was opened at 7:30 and the various reports and committees established. The website for Bytown Lodge has undergone some changes and is now being kept up to date by Bro. Howard Schwartz.
A committee was established to review the application and meet with Bro. Cameron Arnot of Prince of Wales Lodge seeking affiliation.
March
Prior to our Lodge meeting of March 16, a festive board was held and in the tradition of Irish meals, breakfast for dinner was prepared and served to members and guests. Lodge was opened at 7:30 and the regular business conducted. An extensive report was given by Very Worshipful Brother George Ingraham on the Westboro Masonic Temple Corporation and what the possible future of the building may be. Both V.W. Bro. Ingraham and V.W. Bro. Jeff Hawkins were nominated by the members present to be Bytown Lodge’s representatives on the Temple Board for the ensuing year.
The committee of Inquiry for Bro. Cameron Arnot was read out and a ballot in favour of his affiliation was cast.
April
An emergent meeting was held on April 6 to conduct a Second Degree for Bro. Corto Soulas-Nallet. Prior to the ceremony Bro. Soulas-Nallet was asked the customary questions and proved his proficiency in the F.D. Bro. Soulas-Nallet was then Passed to the S.D. and Lodge was closed at 8:52 p.m. Congratulations Brother Soulas-Nallet.
April 20 saw the regular meeting of Bytown Lodge and after the regular business was conducted, balloting for the officers of Bytown for the upcoming Masonic year (June 2023-May 2024) was held. Under the watchful eyes of our scrutineers R.W. Bro. Ken Brinston and Bro. John Chamberlain, the following officer positions were elected:
V.W. Bro Jeff Hawkins, Worshipful Master Elect
Bro. Peter Ruttan, Senior Warden
Bro. Jon Orazietti, Junior Warden
W. Bro. Brodie Fraser, Secretary
V.W. Bro. Scott Macdonald, Treasurer
Bro. Sandy Mackie, Tyler
Following the elections, Mr. Spencer Jay-Leafloor was initiated into the secrets and mysteries of Masonry. Congratulations Brother Leafloor.
Opening Comments from the Editor
In discussion with the officers of Bytown Lodge, the publication of this bulletin will change from four times per year to three times per year to allow for more substantial issues to be produced.
The new dates, starting in 2023 will cover the following periods:
September to December – Published in February
January to April – Published in June
May to August – Published in September
The annual meeting for Ottawa District 2 was held under the direction of District Deputy Grand Master (2019-2022), RW Bro. John Hawkins. Minutes from the virtual district meeting held on September 21, 2021, and various correspondence was read, the district financial update was presented, and various changes to district bylaws were also presented. Of these, the nomination for DDGM had to be submitted by May 31 annually and voting would occur by electronic ballot by June 15, annually. A revived Mentor Program was presented by RW Bro. Peter Harbert. W Bro. Robert Sullivan’s name was put forth to Grand Lodge to become the new DDGM for Ottawa District 2. The next district meeting was scheduled for August 22, 2022.
On Sunday, June 12 at the home of Mrs. Jan Fraser (mother of W Bro. Brodie Fraser) in Constance Bay along the beautiful shore of the Ottawa River, members of Bytown and their family held our annual summer BBQ. Despite the day being under the threat of tornado watches and heavy rains, the members of Bytown enjoyed the many delicious dishes brought. The highlight was W Bro Fraser BBQing in the rain with many members joking to give him a golf club or a longer set of metal tongs to ward off possible lightning strikes.
During the day the members also had the opportunity to meet with a couple of prospective candidates for masonry. After the rain had parted some of the members ventured down to splash along the shores of the Ottawa River before venturing home.
Thank you to Jan for opening your doors and once again being gracious and charming hostess.
Members of Bytown along with potential or interested candidates met for an evening social gathering at Local Heroes Restaurant and Pub on Merivale Road.
The Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario was held at the Sheraton Parkway Toronto North Hotel & Suites in Richmond Hill on July 20 and 21, 2022. Brothers from Bytown Lodge attended, and W Bro. Robert Sullivan was confirmed as the new DDGM for Ottawa District 2.
The final summer social event was held at MacLaren’s on Elgin Street, the downtown core of Ottawa. The many televisions, pool games and various food items kept everyone well entertained.
Bytown Lodge returned to regular meetings after our summer break. The night began with a Festive Board prepared by the Junior Warden consisting of a smoked beef brisket, cooler corn, and potato salad.
The Lodge was opened for ceremony at 7:30 p.m. and after the general business, opened up to the Third Degree, and then back to the First. Committees of Inquiries were established for the petitions of Mr. Corto Soulas–Nallet and Mr. Charly Olanga–Ondaka. Bro. Randy Nanjad from the Beaches Lodge No.473 of Toronto was a visitor this evening. A report was read regarding Bro. Roger Needham’s continued decline in health and that he remains hospitalized. VW Bro. Jeff Hawkins was invested as Senior Warden. Bro. Howard Schwartz presented masonic education on the topic of Living Masonic Values inside and outside of the Lodge.
October is our anniversary month and celebrates the formation of Bytown Lodge No. 721 AF & AM, a lodge of the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario. We are proud of the history that has been made since 1969. Our celebratory night began with the Junior Warden preparing a traditional thanksgiving meal consisting of “Trash Can Turkey,” mashed potatoes, honey glazed carrots, homemade stuffing, and gravy.
The lodge opened at 7:30 p.m. and, after the regular order of business, the lodge was opened in the Second Degree where Bro. Colin Bosche proved his proficiency in that degree. The lodge was then opened in the Third Degree with Bro. Bosche being raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason.
A brunch social was held at Al’s Diner in Ottawa and was well attended. During this social gathering we met a couple of prospects interested in masonry.
Bro. Junior Warden was not able to be present this evening during our Regular Meeting, so with the help of a few Brothers, the Festive Board consisted of a ‘deconstructed chicken pot pie’ and desserts.
The evening’s work consisted of welcoming the District Deputy Grand Master of Ottawa District 2, RW Bro. Robert Sullivan, receiving the Travelling Gavel from The Builder’s Lodge No.177, and a Remembrance Service in honour of those sailors, soldiers and aviator’s from the past and present.
The main work of the evening was the double initiation of Bro. Charly Ondako–Olanga and Bro. Corto Soulas–Nallet into masonry.
As is customary of Bytown Lodge, our Regular Meeting in December was on the 2nd Thursday of this month to separate it from the craziness of the Holiday Season. The Festive Board consisted of smoked ham and roasted butternut squash prepared by the Junior Warden, and scalloped potatoes prepared by VW Bro. George Ingraham and VW Bro. Scott Macdonald. Dessert was cheesecake prepared by VW Bro. Scott Macdonald in honour of Bro. Colin Bosche who would later prove his proficiency in the 3rd Degree.
Opening Comments:
Lodges have for the most part in the Province of Ontario, and the rest of Canada have returned to regular meetings once again. While we are still under various pandemic protocols, we must all continue to act and meet in an environment that is safe for all brethren. Some Lodges, however, have not returned due to the pandemic, and that is fine as they have weighed the need over the want and found that the want outweighs the need. We will together get through this, or live with it, either way it may be a while yet before we are able to return to normal—whatever normal is.
As Bytown returns to regular meetings and gatherings our members begin to slowly return as well. We are pleased and happy with this and look forward to seeing familiar faces that have been either absent or virtual.
Lodge News
On April 7th an Emergent Meeting was held to pass Brother Colin Bosche to the Second Degree.
The evening began with a social from 6:00 – 6:30 p.m. with a Festive Board beginning at 6:30 p.m. The Festive Board was prepared by Bro. Peter Ruttan and consisted of toasted chicken salad and Swiss cheese sandwiches along with a hearty, homemade beef and barley soup. A new tradition will be introduced to our festive Boards when a candidate is the guest this evening was New York Cheesecake topped with glazed strawberries.
April 21 was our Lodge Step-up night and Elections of Officers for the upcoming Masonic year. The evening began with a social from 6:00 – 6:30 p.m. with a Festive Board beginning at 6:30 p.m.
The Festive Board was prepared by Bro. Peter Ruttan and consisted of Chili and Hot Dogs which was in tribute to the late W. Bro. Cal Bellamy, as this month would normally have been our annual chili cook-off contest for charity. This was Bro. Ruttan’s first time ever making chili and it was quite good. Lodge was tyled at 7:30 pm with everyone in their “possible” new positions within Lodge.
Installation Night – May 19
The evening began with a social from 5:30 – 6:00 p.m. with the Festive Board beginning at 6:00 p.m. The Festive Board was prepared by Junior Warden Elect Bro. Peter Ruttan and consisted of a smoked and roasted top sirloin roast, Yorkshire pudding, mashed potatoes, California vegetables, and gravy. Dessert was a cake designed by Mrs. Olive Nelson and decorated by Miss Natalie Nelson, the wife and daughter (respectfully) of W.Bro Ernest Nelson. Assisting the JW with serving the meal was Tamara MacDonald (Scott), Julie Hawkins (John), Elise Farrell (Robert) and Rose Osborne (Don).
Lodge was tyled at 7:30 and under the direction of the Installing Master, W. Bro. Brodie Fraser the Lodge was raised to the 3rd degree and Worshipful Master Jean-Francois Legault was installed as the 51st Master of Bytown Lodge #721.
Bytown Lodge Officers, 2022-2023
• Worshipful Master W. Bro. Jean-François Legault
• Immediate Past Master V.W. Bro. George Ingraham
• Senior Warden V.W. Bro. Jeff Hawkins
• Junior Warden Bro. Peter Ruttan
• Chaplain V.W. Bro. Don Osborne
• Treasurer V.W. Bro. Scott Macdonald
• Secretary W. Bro. Brodie Fraser
• Director of Ceremonies W. Bro. Ernest Nelson
• Senior Deacon Bro Jon Orazietti
• Junior Deacon
• Tyler Bro. Sandy Mackey
A Special Thank You to Those That Assisted in the Ceremony:
Installation Team
Installing Master W. Bro. Brodie Fraser, Bytown Lodge
Director of Ceremonies V.W. Bro. Wayne Keech, The Builder’s Lodge
Immediate Past Master W. Bro. Ernest Nelson, Bytown Lodge
Senior Warden W. Bro. Mikey Reiach, Ionic Lodge c
Junior Warden W. Bro. Brian Pepper, Bytown Lodge
Senior Deacon R.W. Bro. Mike Negrodski, Madawaska Lodge
Junior Deacon W. Bro. Jason Solomon, Ionic Lodge
Inner Guard R.W. Bro. Charles Singh, Ionic Lodge
Senior Steward R.W. Bro. Ken Brinston, The Builders Lodge
Junior Steward W. Bro. Scott Ritchie, Prince of Wales Lodge
Secretary R.W. Bro. Richard Loomes, The Builders Lodge
Chaplain V.W. Bro. Don Osborne, Bytown Lodge
Assisting
Bro. Jon Orazietti, Bytown Lodge
Bro. Colin Bosche, Bytown Lodge
Bro. Peter Ruttan, Bytown Lodge
W. Bro. Jean Lteif, The Builders Lodge
V.W. Bro. George Ingraham, Bytown Lodge
R.W. Bro. Sam Kalinowsky, Defenders Lodge
Bytown Summer BBQ
On Sunday, June 12th at the home of W. Bro. Secretary Brodie Fraser’s mother Jan, Bytown held its annual summer BBQ.
The afternoon was spent for the most part inside as the weather did not want to corporate for most of the day. In fact, severe thunderstorm warnings were in place where we had gathered.
W. Bro. Fraser did the BBQing of hamburgers and hot dogs, while inside the members of Bytown brought to the table various salads, wings, meat and cheese platters, snacks and many great desserts. Hot and cold beverages of many types were also graciously available.
While the company inside was enjoyable some brave souls ventured down the river’s edge (Ottawa River) and enjoyed the sandy beach and the extremely cold water. It must have been their attitude of “a little rain isn’t going to stop us” that allowed the clouds to part enough that the rain stopped and more of the gathering made their way outside.
A great afternoon was had and eventually it was time to depart. Good-byes exchanged with promises and hopes to be able to see each other again throughout the summer.
Thank you very much to the hospitality of Mrs. Jan Fraser.
Happy to meet, sorry to part, happy to meet again.
There has been a long hiatus in the publication of the Bulletin. A number of factors have contributed to this: first has been illness of the Editor, but the severe and prolonged flooding of the Ottawa River in the spring also took its toll. Fortunately, the absence of issues of the Bulletin were not a reflection on the health of Bytown Lodge, as can be seen by what follows.
Lodge News
Following the Installation of our WM and officers for the 2019-2020 Masonic Year, which took place on May 16, 2019, the new WM organized a very special weekend event. On Saturday, June 1, 15 Bytown members, together with 3 visitors from other lodges, attended an Emergent Meeting in the historic lodge building at Upper Canada Village. Following the meeting, we raised a glass at the historic inn next door, and then adjourned to the MacIntosh Country Inn in Morrisburg for a celebratory dinner. In addition, the usual family summer BBQ took place at Bro Dave Baker’s home in Cumberland on July 27.
At the summer convocation of Grand Lodge, RWBro John Hawkins was invested as our DDGM for the coming Masonic Year. Our first meeting in September was an unusual double first degree held on Saturday, September 14 at the Westboro Temple. At the first Regular Meeting of the Lodge on September 19, the WM was invested with his Grand Lodge Regalia. Then, at another Emergent Meeting on October 3, Bytown welcomed another new Mason into the Craft. At our Regular Meeting this month, we will be celebrating Bytown’s 50th Anniversary. To mark the event, the following evening there will be a gala dinner for members, guests and their ladies. The Grand Master will be in attendance. Bytown is back!
Regular Meeting, April 18, 2019
This was our Election Night. The meeting began with a Festive Board in the Banquet Hall downstairs. The JW, Bro Jon Orazietti produced a delicious meal featuring glazed, sliced ham, roast potato boats and salad, and the Secretary, WBro Scott Macdonald baked no less than four fruit pies, to finish the feast. For the Festive Board, we hosted a number of visitors, including three potential petitioners and two potential affiliates.
The Lodge opened upstairs with 16 members present and 4 visitors. With WBro Timothy Denton, the SW of Ashlar 564 and Bro Jason Solomon, the SW of Ionic 526, acting as scrutineers, the following officers were elected by ballot: WM: WBro George Ingraham; SW: Bro Jon Orazietti; JW: WBro Brodie Fraser; Secretary: WBro Scott Macdonald; Treasurer: WBro Robert Farrell. The Tyler, Bro Bryan Wright, was elected by show of hands, as were the auditors, WBro Pound and Bro Bryan Wright, and the Examining Board for the new WM, WBros Macdonald, Osborne and Farrell.
Among the reports presented was the welcome news by Bro Orazietti that Bytown has completed all of the requirements to maintain its status as a Cornerstone Lodge. Also welcome was the Secretary’s report that he had no less than three applications for affiliation and two applications for membership. Committees of investigation were struck to investigate these applications.
The meeting concluded with a period of Masonic Education, featuring one of the Sunday Masonic Papers. No. 857, which explored the symbolism of the Masonic apron.
2019 Cal Bellamy Memorial Chili Cookoff
The Second Annual Bytown Chili Cookoff for charity was this year renamed in memory of the late WBro Cal Bellamy. It took place on Friday, Apil 26, 2019 with 11 teams vying for the trophies. About 54 guests showed up to support the event, including several families with children. Everyone had a good time tasting the various chili offerings. Jon Orazietti was the big winner, with the “People’s Choice” best overall chili, with Olive Nelson coming second and Julie Hawkins coming third. Jon also won the “Most Creative” chili and Mike Nagrodski won the “Best Traditional” chili. Our DDGM, RWBro Ken Brinston was one of the judges. A good time was had by all and we raised $1,350 for the District 2 charity “Do it for Daron”, which was more than we raised last year. Well done organizers!
