Page 18 - PGM Compendium

Jim was elected Junior Grand Warden in Spokane in June 2013, and regularly progressed up the
elected line until his installation into the Oriental Chair on June 11, 2016. An active user of social
media, he started an online blog and maintained a Facebook page that detailed the experiences he
had traveling around the state and his thoughts on how to improve one’s own life through Masonic
teachings. It was inspirational to many Masons within the state. The blog culminated with his year
as Grand Master, but he can still be followed on Facebook.

At his installation, Jim introduced a series of initiatives that he felt would help secure a positive
foundation and advance the fraternity in Washington. These initiatives focused on central themes
such as the quality of Masonic experience, leveraging technology, Masonic education, and
development of future leaders. However, it was chance that intervened one day while Jim was
traveling. At the airport he met a large group of veterans that were on their way back home after
visiting the various war memorials in Washington D.C. That day Jim learned about the Honor
Flight Network and was in that moment he became determined to involve the Freemasons of
Washington in this cause. That initial spark inspired thousands of Masons to support the Puget
Sound Honor Flight Network which lead to Freemasons sponsoring multiple flights sending many
of our most beloved Masons on one last trip to D.C. in tribute to their service and sacrifice.

Now a Past Grand Master, Jim serves as the President of the Board of Directors of Washington
Masonic Charities and is chairman of the Development Committee. It might well seem that nearly
everyone in this jurisdiction can look back on their Masonic journey and find there is a very good
chance Jim was there. His service and dedication to the Craft has inspired brethren to nobler
thoughts, to higher deeds and greater achievements. His message of “Be the Difference” will echo
for years to come as brethren hear the call from refreshment back to labor for the good of all
humanity.