Nine gold albums and scores of top singles, some may say can't top the honor of being made a Mason-at-Sight. Anthony (Tony) Butala of the famed group, The Lettermen, was honored by then-R.W. Grand Master Robert L. Dluge, Jr. by being made a Mason-at-Sight during an Extra Communication of the Grand Lodge on Oct. 20 at Caldwell Consistory, Bloomsburg.

In addition to the making of a Mason-at-Sight, 25 brethren from 19 lodges participated in a one-day class to receive or finish receiving all three degrees in Freemasonry at the same meeting. Each candidate for Freemasonry or brother who had received only the first and/or second degree were assigned a mentor from his lodge who assisted him in receiving his degrees and educating him on his experience. Prior to the first degree and then after each of the three degrees, the candidates received 30 minutes of instruction by the Mentor Program Committee who explained the basic purposes and history of Freemasonry, and the meanings, duties and privileges associated with each degree.

After the Bible presentation, Bro. Butala addressed the lodge with much emotion expressing his gratitude of the honor he was granted by then-Grand Master Dluge and the privilege of being made a Mason. "I grew up in a large family not too far away from here, but now after my many distant travels with The Lettermen, I have moved back home...many of my siblings are now deceased...I can't express to you how much it means to me to call you my brothers," said Bro. Butala with tears in his eyes.

The conferring Masters of the degrees were: Entered Apprentice Degree, Robert P. Avvisato, Jr., St. John's Lodge No. 233, Jenkins Twp.; Fellowcraft Degree, David J. Hohenshilt, Slatington Lodge No. 440; and Master Mason Degree, Gregory L. Gleanleaf, Sr., Whitfield Lodge No. 622, Tatamy.