2018 Beacon Fall

CLIFFORD NICOL Arts & Sciences Lodge No. 792, Hilliard, OH

T H E

O H I O

BEACON Volume 25, Issue 4, Fall 2018

Report of the 2018 Annual Communication JESS RAINES Valley Masonic Lodge No. 145, Malta, OH

Page 4

New Foundation Giving Program Page 5

New Look, New Brand, Same Mission Page 6

Mason “Dots the I” in Ohio Stadium Page 7

TYLER HAWK Fostoria Masonic Lodge No. 288, Fostoria, OH

OMH Partners with Mad River Gorge Page 12

Campus Happenings Page 15

This is Ohio Freemasonry Page 8

2019 Florida Reunion Trip Page 16

...and more!

A JOINT PUBLICATION OF THE OHIO MASONIC HOME AND THE GRAND LODGE OF OHIO

Message from the Grand Master: Invest What a great honor it is to represent the Freemasons of Ohio as your Grand Master! Let me begin by saying thank you for the confidence you have vested in me. While it is difficult to put into words the honor and pride I feel, let me assure you this is one of the greatest moments of my 44 years of life. Kelly and I have thoroughly enjoyed our travels throughout the state of Ohio and the country meeting and getting to know so many of you. We share your passion and enthusiasm, and I hope, together, we will move Ohio Freemasonry forward in many areas during the year. I pledge to you my unwavering support in protecting and promoting the best interests of Ohio Freemasonry.

Building on the foundation of our Brotherhood of Values statement we adopted several years ago, I chose the theme INVEST to carry the message forward in the 2018-2019 Masonic year. Why INVEST? Because investing is the act of using your resources according to your values to accomplish your goals; in short, it is putting your values into action.

There are four key areas of INVEST that I consider important: investing in yourself, your Lodge, your community and our Fraternity.

INVEST in Yourself: It is critical as a human being we continually strive to be a better person in all aspects of life and Freemasonry reminds us that we are always striving to smooth the rough stone into the perfect ashlar. We can do this by increasing our Masonic knowledge through education, traveling within the Fraternity, knowing the reason we are a Freemason, and being proud to share our reason outside the Fraternity through words and actions.

INVEST in Your Lodge: Lodges are relationships, and relationships take time and energy. Being an active member in your Lodge, working to maintain or even improve the Lodge relationships, developing leaders, replacing ourselves with the right people, encouraging others to rediscover and re-engage with the Lodge is vital to the Lodge’s longevity.

INVEST in Your Community: The most successful Lodges in the state are those which are invested in their community.

They are sponsoring little league teams, hosting community

breakfasts, providing scholarships, and connecting with their communities.

There are many examples of the great things Freemasonry is doing, and I plan to share those to both celebrate the amazing work done by Lodges and as an opportunity for other Lodges throughout the state to gain new ideas and explore additional opportunities to invest in their communities.

INVEST in Our Fraternity: Finally my Brethren, it is time to invest in our Fraternity. This is our Fraternity, and we are the ones who will craft our Fraternity now, and for generations to come. For too many years, we have sat back and waited. We have quietly waited for men to knock on the door, been silent about our good deeds, and have not shared our wonderful experience with those outside our Fraternity.

Brethren, it is time. It is time to put our values into action.

Not to gain members or to earn an award, but because that is what Freemasons do. We must share our pride of Freemasonry with others, allow light to be shone on the good deeds we do for others, and we must raise awareness of what Freemasonry is and does. Brethren, it is time; time to INVEST! My fellow Grand Lodge officers and I decided on a new membership management system, Grand View, which was implemented earlier this year. It is much more robust than our previous system, and every Mason has access to his membership record with the ability to maintain contact information, pay dues online, and stay engaged with the local Lodge. I encourage you to visit oh.grandview.systems to establish your membership portal and set your communication preferences. We are developing many additional features which will be added in the coming months including online Masonic education and closed social networking where you can communicate with Masons in good standing who are verified by their Grand Lodge. (continued on Page 10)

The Ohio Beacon is published quarterly. Please report all changes of address to your Lodge Secretary, who, in turn, will notify the Grand Secretary, who maintains the database that produces the BEACON mailing lists.

Douglas Kaylor, PGM | Program Coordinator | The Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Ohio One Masonic Drive, Springfield, OH 45504 | 614-885-5318 or 800-292-6092 | dkaylor@glohio.com Ohio Masonic Home | Marketing Department 2655 W. National Road, Springfield, OH 45504 | 937-525-5609 | OMHmarketing@ohiomasonichome.org

Positioned for Growth Dear Brethren, I hope this message finds you and your family well this holiday season! 2018 has been a very busy year at Ohio Masonic Home, full of exciting travels and invigorating changes. We have been working diligently over the past two years to reduce costs, build a management team to ensure sustainable change, and reach out to all of our constituents, taking care of our Brethren, their wives, and families.

and Shrine throughout the State, to the work of our Ambassadors and Volunteers, we are having a greater impact than ever before. Simply stated, WE, through our Obligations and Masonic Values, are all representative of Ohio Masonic Home.

As the needs of our constituents change, we at Ohio Masonic Home are positioned to grow and increase our service levels at all three campuses to meet those needs.

At Browning Masonic Community, we are currently pre-selling for our Phase II Villas. Springfield Masonic Community is undergoing a repositioning to meet the increasing demand for assisted living services, optimizing the need for independent living apartments, and enhance our skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. Last, but not least, campus renovations have begun at Western Reserve Masonic Community. By replacing roofing, installing new windows, refreshing a corridor and increasing our capacity of assisted living apartments, we will be positioned to meet the demands of the market. We are also working diligently on the detailed schematics for the pre-sale phase of Western Reserve Masonic Community independent living expansion. While exciting, the changes to our campuses are only one part of the importance of our Ohio Masonic Home.

In closing, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate MWB Jess R. Raines and to say thank you to MWB Eric R. Schau and his Lady Linda. Rick and Linda, it has truly been a pleasure to travel and serve with you over the past couple of years. I will cherish the memories and all of the laughs we shared along the way. Thank you for honoring veterans throughout the state and for the monuments that have been placed at Western Reserve Masonic Community and Browning Masonic Community. These monuments will serve to remind us all of the sacrifice many of our Brethren and their families have made to serve this great nation. MWB Raines, I look forward to working with you on your many endeavors and collaborating on efforts in Southeast Ohio.

Our home is much more than bricks and mortar. It is all of us working together to meet the needs of our Brethren wherever they may be. Through the outreach of our Resource Center, the collaboration with the Grand Lodge of Ohio Charitable Foundation, Scottish Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, York Rite Appendant Bodies,

Fraternally, Brother Scott Buchanan CEO, Ohio Masonic Home

Find the Roses!

Congratulations to Clint Williams of Aurora Lodge #48 in Portsmouth, Ohio, the winner of last edition’s Find the Giving Hands search! There were 4 Giving Hands in the last edition.

In this edition, we recognize the new OMH Foundation Giving Program: Circle of Roses. Search through this entire edition and count how many times you find the Rose graphic to the right (do not count the example graphic or the logo).

Read about the Circle of Roses on Page 5.

Thank you all for your continued support of our Ohio Masonic Home.

Submit the correct answer along with your contact information and Lodge affiliation to Ohio Masonic Home, ATTN: OMH Marketing, 2655 W. National Rd., Springfield, Ohio 45504 or via email at OMHmarketing@ohiomasonichome.org by December 14, 2018, and be entered to win a prize, courtesy of the Ohio Masonic Home Print Shop!

(Your participation serves as permission to include your name and Lodge affiliation in the next edition of the Beacon.)

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Thank You For Your Generosity!

The Ohio Masonic Home Foundation expresses a sincere thank you to the individuals, Masonic bodies, foundations, businesses and organizations listed below who contributed to the Foundation between July 1 and September 30, 2018.

The investment made by each donor positively impacts the Ohio Masonic Home’s ability to serve as the trusted partner in helping people to age respectfully.

$10,000 +

Charles E. Brister Trust Walter Frank Trust Estate of Richard E. Hill Estate of Donald A. Kingsbury George K. Moss Trust Webster Sturdivant Trust The Columbus Foundation Keith Tuttle US Bank

$5,000 - $9,999

Dallas W. & Helen B. Bowyer Trust Frank & Marguerite Colburn Trust Dinsmore & Shohl LLP DS Benefits Group Golf Charity Outing, LLC Estate of Thomas B. Gray Jean L. Mason Vivian H. Schulze Trust

$2,500 - $4,999

Orlando W. Davis Trust Grand Chapter of Ohio, RAM Grand Commandery of Ohio, KT Dorothy T. & Myron T. Seifert Trust Howard M. Sheeler Trust Valley of Cambridge, AASR

$1,000 - $2,499

3rd Masonic District Association Bennett Enterprises, Inc. Scott A. Buchanan Canton Lodge #60 Estate of William R. Cramer Dayton Lodge #147 Isaac D. Demarest Medina Chapter #266 Medina Lodge #58 Betty H. Oberle Trust

Per Diem Nurse Staffing Anonymous John C. Snyder Valley of Cleveland, AASR Estate of JoAnn Whitacre Anonymous

$500 - $999

Douglas E. Allen George D. & B.J. Arters Trust Tim Farwell Golden Gate Lodge #245 Greenville Lodge #143 Highland Lodge #38 Bessie V. Hosler Trust Huber Heights Lodge #777 Lancaster Lodge #57 Montgomery Lodge #94 Network for Good Norwood Lodge #576 Progressive Therapy Quarry Lodge #382

Scioto Lodge #6 Sebring Lodge #626 Harold G. Shrive Trust David G. Subleski Valley of Dayton, AASR West Gate Lodge #623 Estate of Robert E. White Frank R. Williams Trust

A big thank you, as well, to our $499 and below donors, who were too numerous to list. Your generosity is very much appreciated!

THANK YOU!

Report of the 2018 Annual Communication The Grand Lodge of Ohio held its Annual Communication on October 12 and 13, 2018, at Kalahari Resort in Sandusky, Ohio.

Grand Master Eric R. Schau opened the session on Friday, and Grand Master Jess N. Raines closed the session on Saturday. Over 99% of the lodges in Ohio were represented by 1050 officers and delegates.

In addition, 126 District Deputies, District Education Officers, and Grand Lodge Officers were in attendance, plus 15 Past Grand Masters, 3 Past Grand Tylers, and 150 Past District Deputies.

The event was hosted by Brethren from the 22nd and 16th Districts.

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Elected to office: Jess N. Raines, Grand Master, Valley Lodge #145, 17th Masonic District Keith W. Newton, Deputy Grand Master, Wilmington Lodge #52, 8th District Richard A. Dickerscheid, Senior Grand Warden, College Hill – Harry S. Johnson Lodge #641, 1st District Timothy S. Wheeland, Junior Grand Warden, University Lodge #631, 14th District Steven E. Cokonougher, Grand Treasurer, Linden Lodge #637, 14th District C. Michael Watson, Grand Secretary, West Milton Lodge 577, 3rd District Appointed to office: David L. Hawk, Grand Chaplain, Fostoria Lodge #288, 16th District Steven M. Grindle, Grand Orator, Toledo Ft. Industry Lodge #144, 11th District Paul A. Weglage, Grand Marshal, Millennium Lodge, #779, 2nd District William M. Carter, III, Senior Grand Deacon, Dover Loge #489, 22nd District Shawn A. Johnson, Junior Grand Deacon, Fielding Lodge #192, 9th District Shaun Marolt, Grand Tyler, Peerless Lodge #591, 13th District

Ohio Masonic Home Foundation Giving Program

Become a Founding Member The new Ohio Masonic Home Foundation Annual Giving Program, Circle of Roses, started September 1, 2018 and is designed to run indefinitely. This program will run on the calendar year, January 1 to December 31.

The new Lifetime Giving Program, Society of Roses, will recognize donors who have shown extraordinary financial support with lifetime gifts of $10,000 or more to the Ohio Masonic Home Foundation.

Individual Donor Recognition Levels are listed below. Founding members making gifts between September 1, 2018 and May 31, 2019 will forever receive pins with a golden ring. Subsequent to the founding period, the golden ring will turn to our Masonic blue. Donors will receive a pin for each new level of attainment for BOTH the Annual and Lifetime programs. The pins depicted below represent the 2018 White Rose Circle ($100-$249) and a lifetime member of the White Rose Society ($10,000-$24,999). Donors will be recognized quarterly in the Beacon.

Annual Giving Circle of Roses

Lifetime Giving Society of Roses

The following gift circles are recognized on an annual basis:

Our Lifetime Giving Societies recognize those who have provided extraordinary private support to the Foundation of $10,000 or more.

White Rose Circle

$100-$249

White Rose Society

$10,000-$24,999

Yellow Rose Circle

$250-$499

Yellow Rose Society

$25,000-$49,999

Orange Rose Circle

$500-$999

Orange Rose Society

$50,000-$99,999

Peach Rose Circle

$1,000-$2,499

Peach Rose Society

$100,000-$249,999

Lavender Rose Circle $2,500-$4,999

Lavender Rose Society $250,000-$499,999

Pink Rose Circle

$5,000-$9,999

Pink Rose Society

$500,000-$999,999

Red Rose Circle

$10,000 and above

Red Rose Society

$1,000,000 and above FALL 2018

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New Look, New Brand, Same Mission On July 22, 2018, Ohio Masonic Home's Parent Board held its quarterly board meeting at Western Reserve Masonic Community. One of the exciting accomplishments during the board meeting was an enhancement to the mission statement of the Ohio Masonic Home. The mission statement now aligns with our new branding strategy, which we will be rolling out by January, 2019. The revised mission statement now reads: “We are the living expression of our Masonic Values – We serve as the trusted partner to help people age respectfully.”

Additionally, during this board meeting, exciting decisions were made establishing the foundation for the organization’s future strategic growth plans. We are thrilled to share these changes with you.

Browning – We received approval to expand the Water’s Edge Villas project. Breaking ground in the near future, we will be building eight brand new independent living villa homes.

Springfield – We received approvals to move forward on four major projects at the Springfield campus including: • Scottish Rite Studio Consolidations – We will be combining studio apartments (as they become available) into one and two bedroom apartments.

• Iredell Conversion – We will be converting from independent

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•

•

living to assisted living apartments.

York Rite Remodel – We will be remodeling the 4th floor of the York Rite building from semiprivate rooms to private rooms.

Each resident will now have their own private bathroom.

HVAC and Fire Alarm Replacement – In the near future, we will be replacing the current steam tunnel heating unit and the fire alarm system in each of the buildings.

Western Reserve – We received approvals to take the next steps on three key projects at the Western Reserve Campus inclduing: • Roofing – Replacing the roof on the existing facility.

• Windows – Replacing the exterior windows on the existing facility.

• Corridor Refresh – Updating the corridors throughout the existing facility.

These changes allow us to grow both internally and externally, provide more job opportunities in each of our markets, and fulfill the mission of the organization.

In August, Tom Maloney, Chief Operations and Financial Officer, traveled to each of the three campuses to provide insight on the current status of the organization and growth opportunities at each of the campuses. Included in the presentation, each associate received a glimpse of our new logo, new messaging, and new branding. These changes will allow the organization to strategically improve our competitive position in each of our markets.

As you can see, the new logo is quite different than the previous logo.

Through several months of research and collaboration with parent board members, the logo was updated to include the acacia tree. Each part of the logo was respectfully chosen to honor the Masonic Fraternity. The tree was selected to represent eternal life on our campuses. The roots exposed because our organization is deeply rooted in Masonic Values. There are five branches on the tree representing each of the three campuses, along with the Ohio Masonic Home Foundation, and the Ohio Masonic Home Resource Center. Lastly, we kept the traditional Masonic blue and brought in green (life and energy) and also orange (warmth and happiness).

We now have one brand, one identity, and one message as we move forward in the market place.

To celebrate the rebrand, we will be holding events at each of the three campuses the first week of January, 2019. Each event will be open to the staff, residents, and surrounding community members. We invite you and your loved ones to attend one and/or all of the following events: • • •

Springfield Masonic Community, Wednesday, January 2 Browning Masonic Community, Thursday, January 3 Western Reserve Masonic Community, Friday, January 4

Each event will be held from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at its respective community.

Grand Master’s Classes

in

2019

Grand Master Jess N. Raines has authorized a series of Grand Master’s Classes to be held in locations across Ohio and at all different times of the year. His goal is to make it possible for a man of good reputation and character to find a time and location where he can attend a Grand Master’s Class. Districts have been asked to partner up so that we hold about a dozen classes across the state.

A partial list of dates and locations available at this time include: • • • • • •

Jan. 19 - Springfield Masonic Temple Mar. 9 - Valley of Cambridge Auditorium Mar. 23 - Minford Middle School Apr. 6 - Canton Masonic Temple Apr. 13 - Jeffersonville Lodge #468 Apr. 27 - Valley of Cambridge Auditorium

• • • • • •

May 4 - Dayton Masonic Temple May 11 - Lancaster Lodge #57 May 18 - Temple Lodge #28 Aug. 10 - Camp Masonry Aug. 17 - Clermont Northeastern High School Sept. 21 - Lima Masonic Center

Remember, if you have someone you think would benefit from a Grand Master's Class, he cannot decide to join at the last minute. He must have time to petition the Lodge, be investigated, and voted on unanimously. The petitioner must have two signatures on his petition, and he will need a mentor on the day of degrees. By offering multiple dates, the Grand Master hopes to increase the opportunities for lodges to do this properly. While most men will attend the Class for their district, they will be allowed to attend a class in another district as long as space is available.

If you know of a Brother who started his Masonic journey and then had to pause because of work or other reasons, this offers an opportunity to invite him to come back and finish his work.

If you know someone you think would make a good Mason, consider how you might let him know of this new opportunity. Sometimes the best approach is to just tell him he would be a good mason, explain how the petition process works, and then let him make the decision.

A more complete list of dates, times, and locations will be posted on Freemason.com and on the Grand View Membership system as they become available.

Mason “Dots

the

I”

in

Ohio Stadium

Brother Anthony Violi was honored to “dot the i” during the Ohio State University Marching Band’s performance of Script Ohio on September 22nd at Ohio Stadium. This is an honor that has been extended to fewer than twenty people over the last 83 years.

Brother Violi is 100 years old. He has been a Mason and member of Steubenville Lodge #45 for 69 years. He is also a member of the Valley of Steubenville, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, where he received the Meritorious Service Award and the Scottish Rite Medal for Masonic Service.

The TBDBITL Alumni Association selected Brother Violi for this extraordinary honor to recognize his long support of the band and this amazing milestone as a centenarian. Brother Violi played in the Ohio State band from 1937 until graduation in 1942. He immediately entered the Army and served overseas. Later, he taught music for many years and directed the marching band at the Steubenville High School. He still plays in the community band today.

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New Public Awareness Campaign: This is Ohio Freemasonry The Grand Lodge launched a new public awareness campaign during the Annual Communication.

Market research shows that many people have heard of Freemasonry, but few know what it is. They do not know what Masons do or what they stand for.

Perhaps, they remember their fathers or grandfathers were Masons. Perhaps they know the building down the street is the Masonic Lodge, but they do not have a clue what goes on behind its doors.

This a challenge but also an immediate opportunity.

The research also shows men today are interested in joining an organization which has values and stands for integrity, toleration, and justice. Men are looking for fellowship and for ways to give back to the community. When they learn what Masonry stands for, they express an interest in joining.

Under the leadership of Grand Master Jess N. Raines, the Grand Lodge is launching a program to bring our name back before the public. After working with the marketing firm CBC, we decided to put the faces of our members before public.

These would be real men from real lodges who, through their actions and activities, represented the best that Freemasonry has to offer.

The Grand Lodge officers were asked to recommend men from around the state, taking into consideration the different regions, ages, and backgrounds of our members. From this list, the Grand Lodge office narrowed the list to ten names, and the marketing firm selected the final five men for the initial campaign.

They are: 1. WB Del Braund, Brookville Lodge 596 2. WB Tyler Hawk, Fostoria Lodge 288 3. WB Cliff Nichol, Arts and Sciences Lodge 792 4. MWB Jess N. Raines, Valley Lodge 145 5. WB Jason French, Northern Light Lodge 40

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This first phase of the campaign will run until the spring, and it is being rolled out to coincide with the announcement of Grand Master’s Classes to be held in 2019. While not advertising as such, the Grand Lodge hopes that it will make it easier for Masons to talk to their friends, family, co-workers, and others who might want to know more, and they can then point to the photo and say, “This is Ohio Freemasonry,” real men living good lives.

Fitting

the

Script

Springfield Masonic Community kicked off their most recent commercial featuring a day in the life of a SMC community member. When selecting the lead role, Barbara Fogle fit the script perfectly! Shortly after moving to Springfield Masonic Community, she became heavily engaged in all the community happenings both on and off campus. From attending day trips to teeing off at Windy Knoll golf course, Barbara has made herself right at home. During the filming, Barbara enjoyed all the attention being in the limelight. She had her first ever off-road experience, a little craft beer tasting, and a motorcycle ride around Springfield Masonic Community. When asked about her experience in being the lead role she said, “I feel like I am a part of something again. I feel like I am a part of a family.”

OMH Print Shop 2018 Commemorative Apron Orders are flowing in for the 2018 Commemorative Apron, a limited edition item from the OMH Print Shop. This custom-designed apron features original art printed onto a sturdy, double-layer, white apron with a unique buckle and pocket in the back. This apron would serve as a wonderful decorative piece for your Lodge, a personal gift, or a fantastic talking point in your office. This design will be available until mid-2019, with a new design to be unveiled at Home Day 2019.

Be sure to place your order as soon as possible to ensure you do not miss out on a single year of these unique aprons.

For more information, or to place your order contact the OMH Print Shop at 937-525-4939, info@omhprintshop.com, or www.omhprintshop.com.

Grand Lodge Gettysburg/ Washington, D.C. Bus Tour Grand Master Jess N. Raines and his wife Kelly invite you to join them on a Grand Lodge Bus Tour to Gettysburg, Washington, D.C., and Mt Vernon from July 31 to August 4, 2019. This trip is open to all Masons, their spouses, and guests.

The trip will include four night’s accommodations and consist of visits and tours to the following: • Gettysburg Battlefield and Museum • George Washington Masonic National Memorial • Capital • Arlington Cemetery • Washington Monument • Lincoln Memorial • Vietnam Memorial • World War II Memorial • Mount Vernon Plans call for a Potomac River dinner cruise on the last night. Church services will be held at the Washington National Cathedral before departing home.

This trip has been planned by Perfect Pair Adventures and the Grand Lodge, and is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control. All participants, including the Grand Lodge Officers are responsible for their own expenses.

The cost of the trip is $1,155 single occupancy and $835 per person double occupancy. Triple and quad rates are available upon request. There is a $150 nonrefundable deposit due upon reservation and the final balance is due

by May 1, 2019.

Information on registration will be available at www.glohio.com and Facebook page.

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Browning Campus Promotes Year Round Fitness with New Exercise Park This October an outdoor exercise park and walking trail was completed at Browning Masonic Community in Waterville.

This trail will enable those living in the community to exercise in a scenic, outdoor setting throughout the year. Made possible from the gifts of several generous donors to the Ohio Masonic Home Foundation, the exercise park features three kiosks with information and equipment for three exercises at each station. It is adjacent to a walking trail which makes a one mile loop from the main apartment building around two ponds and Browning’s new Water's Edge Villas. This exercise area and trail complement an existing fitness room in Browning’s main building.

Invest

(continued

from page

2)

BROWNING MASONIC COMMUNITY Waterville, OH 18-2566A

We are also embarking on a public awareness campaign to educate the public about what Freemasonry is and the good deeds we do across the state. We have worked with CerconeBrown, a public relations firm from Boston, Massachusetts over the last several months to adapt some of the ‘Not Just a Man, A Mason’ campaign materials which were developed by the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. Our work led us to establish a campaign titled, “This is Ohio Freemasonry” featuring five Ohio Masons from different backgrounds representing the diversity of Ohio Freemasonry. I am proud to be included in the campaign and thank the other four Ohio Masons who stepped up to share their story of why they are a Freemason. Our goal is to raise awareness of Freemasonry in the state of Ohio, showing we are common, ordinary men from all walks of life who enjoy a common bond.

My brothers, this is only the beginning and certainly not the solution to propelling our Fraternity into the future. We, as individuals and as Lodges, must answer the call, understanding what makes our Lodge unique, understanding what men joining our Lodge are looking for, and creating a Lodge experience they will want to come back for time and time again.

To provide multiple opportunities for men to join Ohio Freemasonry, I have authorized multiple Grand Master’s classes throughout the year. The schedule will be released soon for one-day events across the state that will start as early as January 2019. The idea is similar to the traveling we do in Scottish Rite to witness the various degrees not offered in our area of the state. In our case, we travel with our candidate to an area of the state to bring the man we have recommended to light. Look for the schedule soon on our website freemason.com.

My brothers, we have many successes to celebrate, but we can no longer rest on our laurels. The values of Freemasonry are needed in today’s society more than ever, and it is up to each of us to demonstrate to our fellow man why Freemasonry is so transformative and such a power for good. Invest in yourself, your Lodge, your community, and OUR Fraternity. I am honored and humbled to represent and serve you as Grand Master.

Please join with me and INVEST in Ohio Freemasonry.

Fraternally, Jess N. Raines, Grand Master

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Browning Masonic Community to Add Eight New Villas This article was published in the Maumee Mirror in June of 2018 by Karen Gerhardinger, Maumee Reporter.

After living in the country outside of Delta, Marilyn Buehrer began searching Northwest Ohio for a senior living community that offered the same peaceful setting, yet provided a continuum of care for her ailing husband, Philip.

In Spring 2016, the couple signed a contract to lease one of the first 14 Water’s Edge Villas at Browning Masonic Community, situated on 450 acres near the Maumee River in Waterville.

Unfortunately, Philip died just a few weeks before the condo was complete. But in February 2017, Marilyn moved into a three-bedroom villa with a sunroom overlooking the pond.

Walking through the home with her daughter Julie, Marilyn pointed out the zero-entry shower, the wide doorways and other features that make it comfortable and accessible. It also includes plenty of cabinets, built-in shelving for memorabilia, tall ceilings and a full basement.

“It’s kind of like moving into a hotel. It’s all on one floor and it’s easy to keep up. And it’s like living in the country,” Marilyn said.

While Marilyn’s neighborhood is full, Browning is breaking ground on eight new villas within the next few months. Jason Aberegg, Director of Engineering, who is overseeing the construction by Ridge Stone Builders, said, “the homes will be on the east outer loop of the development.”

“While approved by the city of Waterville for 24 units, we are taking a conservative approach, planning to build future plats to meet demand,” said Executive Director, Tara Lloyd.

Each of the new two-bedroom homes feature no step entrances, custom wood trim throughout, 10 foot ceilings in common spaces, a large sunroom, two-car plus attached garage, walk-in closets, and an open floor plan with customizable kitchen options along with many other add-on options.

“Residents have a huge opportunity to customize the home, with carpeting, flooring and tile,” Tara said. “It’s hard for them to realize they’re not building their own home because of the customized experience.”

This was a positive for Marilyn, who didn’t want to own another home.

“This was the most financially feasible,” Marilyn said of the community after her search. She also liked the idea of being able to work with the builder to select features for the home.

Tenants receive access to the fitness center, a free local golf membership to White Pines Golf Course, fullservice dining, salon and spa, library, sitting rooms and social areas to use or to join the community in many of the monthly programs. Utilities, Wi-Fi, monthly housekeeping, snow removal, landscaping maintenance and other amenities are also included.

“Living here I can still go visit my friends. I can also go to the monthly concerts, trips to the casino, or out to eat,” said Marilyn. “They also have special events and a minister who comes monthly and plays the piano.”

“We get to help someone build and customize their dream home while adding them to our Browning Masonic Community family,” Tara said. “We’ve been part of the Waterville community for nearly 40 years and we are proud to offer personalized housing and tailored amenities within a vibrant community that celebrates independence and wellness for all individuals we serve.”

The community is open to those 55 and better, not just those who are affiliated with the Masonic Fraternity.

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OMH Partners with Mad River Gorge As a part of our ongoing collaboration and partnership with the local community and our desire to preserve pristine land for environmentally friendly use, Ohio Masonic Home completed the sale of 52 acres of land to the Clark County Park District back in August. After decades of hard work, the two entities were able to partner for the Mad River Gorge and Nature Preserve Project.

This project includes a main hiking trail along an old rail bed, access to the Mad River, and natural dolomite cliffs, reaching heights up to 50 feet for rock climbing. The land contains some of the best climbing cliffs in the Midwest and has been unused for decades. The land is undevelopable by Ohio Masonic Home and will now be preserved by the Clark County Park District forever.

Residents, family members, and employees of the Springfield Masonic Community and The Ohio Masonic Home will be able to access future trails as part of the Mad River Gorge and Nature Preserve Project, which will connect to the backside of the campus.

“It has been an honor to be a part of this project and after years of work, we are excited to partner with the Clark County Park district in the development of this land” said John White, Corporate Director of Treasury for Ohio Masonic Home. “This is

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the culmination of years of hard work and an is exciting partnership between Ohio Masonic Home and the Clark County Park District. It provides many benefits to Clark County and southwest Ohio, as well as our Springfield Masonic Community family” said Tom Maloney, Chief Operations and Financial Officer for Ohio Masonic Home.

“Acquisition of Ohio Masonic Home's property completes the initial development of the Mad River Gorge and Nature Preserve utilizing a Clean Ohio Conservation Fund grant. Several partners and the community worked together to preserve this natural gem. The Clark County Park District looks forward to working with Ohio Masonic Home to develop a premier nature escape in Clark County,” said Time DeVore, Vice President of the Clark County Park District Board of Park Commissioners.

This acquisition nearly doubles the size of the Mad River Gorge. Over the past year, hundreds of volunteers, working with the park district, have removed over 60 tons of garbage from the gorge which continues their efforts to return the land to its natural state. Ohio Masonic Home donated a portion of the value of the land to the district and has future plans to link walking paths from its campus to allow residents, visitors, and staff to access miles of developed trails already.

Ohio

How I Discovered a part of Masonic Home History By Accident…

By J. Bruce Steinhard, WM – Kilwinning Lodge #356, Cincinnati, OH I never imagined a simple trip to Western Pennsylvania in 2012 would have provided me with insight to a generally unknown piece of Masonic history. As I later tried to tell a friend about a statue that I found along the National Highway on this trip, I had trouble finding the location on Google Maps.

During the original trip we were on our way to Camp Jumonville in Hopwood, PA when we discovered the statue, otherwise called “The Madonna of the Trail.”

During my later search for this gem, I began to find out more than I ever thought possible about this statue. It is one of 12 along the National Road, or US Route 40.

“In 1911 the National Society, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) set out to mark the ‘Old Trails Road’ stretching from Maryland to California,” Brother Harry S. Truman states at the first dedication in 1928.

The DAR chairwoman was inspired by other statues and the need to honor the women who had walked along the trail. “But the exclusively white DAR, operating amid increased xenophobia and anxiety over new public roles for women in the 1920s, embraced an explicitly white pioneer mother. Like other statues erected during the ‘Pioneer Mother Movement’ of late 1920s and 1930s, the DAR statues balanced women’s strength with softer maternal symbolism.”

All of the statues were supposed to face west in order to symbolize the Westward movement of the American people to California at that time. However, the sculptor preferred them to face south to provide the best view.

Given this difference, only four face west, six face south, one east and one north.

The statues are made of “Algonite,” a form of cast stone produced from a mixture of crushed marble, Missouri granite, stone, cement, and lead ore. This material was more cost effective, but it was also less durable than bronze or marble. Most of the Madonna statues have been restored at least once. Because these were local restoration efforts done at different times and utilizing different methods, the resulting appearance of the statues, particularly the color, differed noticeably.

That being said, the statue in Ohio was originally on the grounds of the Springfield Masonic Community. In 1956 the Springfield Madonna was moved aside a quarter-mile to make space for a new highway interchange. In 2011 it was moved again, this time two miles east into the city center, where it became the centerpiece of a new downtown connector park.

Information taken from: pioneermonuments.net/highlighted-monuments/madonna-of-the-trail/ See also: exploreroute40.wordpress.com/2013/05/08/mile-302-madonna-of-the-trail-ohio-springfield-ohio/

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It’s Medicare Open Enrollment Time.

Need Help?

Medicare’s open enrollment begins October 15th, 2018, and runs through December 7th, 2018. Whether you are choosing a Medicare plan for the first time or evaluating your current plan, it is vital to have the right Medicare plan for your needs.

A recent study showed a typical retired couple needs almost $300,000 in savings just to cover health care premiums throughout retirement. This does not include out-of-pocket (i.e. co-pays, dental, vision, hearing aids, etc.). This means that having a strategy for managing health care expenses in retirement is essential.

A surprising amount of people believe Medicare is free and will cover all of their health care costs once they retire. However, estimates indicate in general, Medicare only covers about half of health costs. So, how can you effectively manage your health care dollars in retirement? One of the best ways is by selecting the right health plan for your unique needs.

Picking the insurance plan which fits your needs and budgeting is important, and can be the difference between having affordable coverage when you need it or having expensive medical bills that must be paid out of pocket.

On top of all the options, Medicare enrollees also have to deal with the plan changes that occur from year to year. Insurance companies use the open enrollment period to make any needed changes to their plan offerings, which they communicate to plan members through a document called the “Annual Notice of Change.” It is very important that you review this document when you receive it in the mail so you know what changes are coming to your plan’s costs and/or benefits. This will help you plan accordingly.

Your needs can change from year to year. It is worth the time to review your plan's process each year.

Your opportunity to make sure you have the right plan for your needs is during Medicare’s open enrollment period (Oct. 15 – Dec. 7).

We recommend you either find help from an advisor you trust or you find the time to do important research on your own. The Ohio Masonic Home Resource Center can help in this effort.

Please contact us at 877-881-1623 and we can connect you with the best resource to meet your needs.

We see a great number of individuals during this time of year who do not act upon Medicare's open enrollment, because the options are too overwhelming, the details are confusing, or nothing has changed with their health. It is very important to review your situation every year. It may even be good to get a second opinion on the right Medicare plan for you.

Paying attention to these changes helps ensure that you are informed about your plan and will not be surprised by any unexpected expenses.

Amazon Smile Update Ohio Masonic Home is a registered organization at AmazonSmile. This is a simple and easy way to support Ohio Masonic Home through your Amazon purchases. Each time you shop amazon.smile.com, Amazon will donate 0.5% of the purchase price, of eligible items, to your favorite charitable organization. At no cost to you, Ohio Masonic Home can receive a donation from Amazon as you continue to enjoy Amazon's low prices, vast selection, and convenient shopping experiences. To date, the Ohio Masonic Home Foundation has received over $31,000 in donations from our website, Facebook, and AmazonSmile. We graciously thank everyone who has listed Ohio Masonic Home as their organization of choice for the AmazonSmile program. If you have any questions, please contact Cathy Spencer at 888-248-2664, 937-525-5637, or cspencer@ohiomasonichome.org.

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Marietta Sternwheel Festival 2018 The Ohio Masonic Home Resource Center was represented at the Sternwheel Festival in Marietta, Ohio by members of the 17th District Masonic Volunteer Program (MVP) Committee.

With the added draw of the Shrine Belle from the Marietta Shrine Club, participants were offered handouts, candy, and information on services available across Ohio by the Resource Center. With the addition of Melissa Hirn-Pulliam, L.S.W., the Ohio Masonic Home continues to broaden its community outreach to Masons, as well as non-Masons, across Ohio.

MVP Committee Chairman, Dave Williams, was accompanied by his wife, Lorry, and their daughter, Kassandra. Volunteers Ernie Biehl and Orland Bragg helped to spread the word about ways the Resource Center may be able to help those in need. Ohio Masonic Home staff, Steve Petitjean and Jennifer Pajer, were there to lend a helping hand and connect with festival goers. Resource Center Liaisons, Jesse Pertee and DeAnna Kinney were making community connections and educating the public on the good works of Ohio Masonic Home.

The Saturday evening fireworks reflected the excitement Ohio Masonic Home staff MVP Volunteers feel about the growth of the Resource Center and its outreach into southeast Ohio communities.

Campus Happenings Open to the Public!

Browning Masonic Community 8883 Browning Dr., Waterville, OH 43566 419-878-4055 Members Only Club Series! Join us for dessert, coffee and conversation in Harmony Hall with Dr. Tyler Schwanz of Rebel Chiropractic at 1:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of every month. Reservations: 419-878-4055.

Holiday Concert and Celebration Thursday, December 6 from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Get in the holiday spirit with festive music and desserts!

Call 419-878-4055 for more details.

Upper Supper Club Monday, December 10 Benchmark Restaurant – Perrysburg, Ohio (Lunch) Bus leaves at 11:30 a.m. | Lunch at 12:00 p.m.

Please R.S.V.P. to 419-878-1898 by the Friday before the event. Seating and space is limited.

Western Reserve Masonic Community 4931 Nettleton Rd., Medina, OH 44256 330-721-3000 Wednesday, December 5 Open House from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, December 12 Dine and Learn Call for details. Must RSVP. 330-721-3275 Alzheimer's Support Group 3rd Wednesday of every month at 3:00 p.m.

Western Reserve Room Springfield Masonic Community 2655 W. National Rd. Springfield, OH 45504 937-525-3067 Round Dance Lessons Every Monday evening at 7:00 p.m.

Festival Green Clubhouse. Ends December 17

Hope

for the

Holidays

Do you know someone who could use a little extra holiday cheer? This year between Thanksgiving and Christmas, the Ohio Masonic Home Resource Center is reaching out to Lodges to bring hope to worthy and distressed Master Masons, and their wives or widows. We are here to help, whether it’s through a friendly visit from one of our liaisons, emergency assistance, a food basket, or connection to local resources. If you or someone from your Lodge could benefit from this program, please contact us at 877-881-1623.

Together, we are making a difference!

Square Dance Lessons Every Tuesday evening at 7:00 p.m.

Festival Green Clubhouse.

Festival of Lights Tree Lighting Ceremony Friday, November 30 (time TBD) Festival Green Clubhouse Festival of Lights from dusk til dawn November 30 - January 2 near the Festival Green Clubhouse Miami Valley Symphony Orchestra Thursday, December 6 at 7:00 p.m.

Auditorium Breakfast with Santa Saturday, December 15 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Festival Green Clubhouse. Free admission!

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T H E

O H I O

BEACON

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID OH Masonic Home

2655 W. National Rd. Springfield, OH 45504-3698 www.theohiobeacon.com

Scan code to learn more about the trusted partner to help people age respectfully

2019 Florida Reception You are cordially invited to attend!

Monday, January 21, 2019 at 11:00 a.m.

Sarasota/Bradenton: Peridia Golf & Country Club 4950 Peridia Blvd. E., Bradenton, FL 34203 Host: Ken Gavins

Tuesday, January 22, 2019 at 11:00 a.m.

Fort Myers: The Edison 3583 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901 Host: Steve Krekus

Wednesday, January 23, 2019 at 11:00 a.m.

The Villages: Rohan Center 1545 Buena Vista Blvd., The Villages, FL 32162 Host: Jerry Hatton Cost is $10 per person. For reservations, please call 937-525-3002.

Reservations must be made prior to Friday, January 4, 2019.

Please make checks out to Ohio Masonic Home and mail to: Ohio Masonic Home, ATTN: Jennifer Pajer, 2655 W. National Rd., Springfield, OH 45504

Join us for news from Ohio and award presentations by Jess Raines, Grand Master of Ohio, and Scott Buchanan, CEO of Ohio Masonic Home.