By Bro. Todd Wohlert
The Secretary Conference was held in Rothschild, near Wausau, and 54 Brothers were in attendance representing all 12 districts. It was a very busy weekend around the state but even some Grand Lodge officers were able to attend the event.
MW Grand Secretary Mike DeWolf, PGM, opened the event and hosted throughout the day.
MW Grand Treasurer Paul Tourville, PGM, discussed Investment management oversight and a variety of other topics including operating funds, capital investment funds, cash, bonds, cash and alternatives, the case for an investment plan, lodge responsibilities, the Masonic Foundation, AOK Matching Grants, and a new fundraising opportunity. Brother Tourville has articles elsewhere in this issue of the Journal going into greater detail on some of these topics.
Next up was an online presentation from Brother Mark Menard from Groupable. He went over existing programs and discussed new features like a mailroom to reach lodge members and an advanced audio builder. He also talked about new items coming out this year.
Presentations continued with Brother Kyle Grahn, Grand Lodge business manager, who took the podium next, to answer questions and tame the lions. He discussed Tax documents (PC-220) as well as the new online petition and revised signer cards.
Grand Secretary DeWolf discussed the Lewis Jewel in our Jurisdiction. This jewel denotes generations of Masons in a family. Wisconsin Freemasonry has found a producer in Missouri to be its official vendor.
The last act of the day was the insurance presentation from Jesse Fuhrer who covered elements of coverage within the Grand Lodge insurance program, extensive discussion of building valuations, building replacement: Actual cash value vs total replacement cost, Hold Harmless agreement for those who rent, and his final question for us to ponder: “Is our building the Master of our Lodge?”
