Generational leadership in Grand Lodge - an icon turns 63

Fifty years ago, on June 19, 1957, Joseph Buckheart of Capitol Lodge No. 4, Carson City, was installed as Grand Master of the Grand Loge of Nevada, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and June Miller was installed president of the Rebekah Assembly of Nevada, IOOF. Six years later, Joe and June were married.

Fifty years to the day, grandson Bill Knight and granddaughter Shirley, both of Capitol Lodge No. 4 and Capitol Rebekah Lodge No. 14, were installed Grand Master of the Grand Lodge and president of the Rebekah Assembly, respectively.

The IOOF is a fraternal organization that originated in England in the 18th century and has been in existence in Nevada more than 141 years.

The primary purpose of the organization is to improve and elevate the character of mankind and to help those who are less fortunate.

Other Grand Lodge officers installed were: Deputy Grand Master Bryan Gardner; Grand Warden Mel DeLong; Grand Secretary Wayne Reynolds; Treasurer Tom Jolly, all of Reno Lodge No. 14, and Grand Representative Bruce Hiscock of Capitol No. 4.

Rebekah Assembly officers installed were: Vice President Margaret Morris, Winnemucca; Warden Priscilla Thomas, Reno; Secretary Helen Leonard, Las Vegas; Treasurer and Representative Nancy Cain, Las Vegas; Marshal Frankie Peterson, Paradise Valley; Conductor Emily Miller, Paradise Valley; Chaplain Crystal Ann Knight; Inside Guardian Ethel Buzzetti, Ely; Outside Guardian Kim Lloyd, Sparks; Heralds Margaret Anderson, Sparks, and Lyda Belzer, Hawthorne. Dorothy Knight is a chaplain supporter.

• • •

Happy birthday, Smokey Bear!

The iconic bear whose message, "Only you can prevent forest fires" and is recognized worldwide, will turn 63 on Thursday.

Smokey Bear will make a special appearance at the Douglas County Public Library in Minden at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday.

Miss Carol from the Douglas County Public Library will tell the story of Smokey and how he came to be the animal symbol for fire safety. Stacy Saucedo from the U.S. Forest Service will talk about how to use fire and matches safely.

Guests will make homemade ice-cream-in-a-can. Children should bring their own toppings such as chocolate sauce, cherries and whipped cream.

Please bring small, clear coffee can lids from 13-ounce cans. Raley's and the library will furnish other supplies. Children must register by Tuesday morning to attend this program.

For more information, call the library at 782-9841.