The Ohio Beacon is published quarterly by The Ohio Masonic Communities at 2655 W. National Rd. Springfield, OH 45504
IN THIS ISSUE
Letter from the CEO
The Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Ohio One Masonic Drive, Springfield, OH 45504 (614) 885-5318 or (800) 292-6092 Jim Hall, DDGM Director of Programs jhall@glohio.com
The Ohio Masonic Communities Marketing Department 2655 W. National Road Springfield, OH 45504 (877) 881-1623
OMHmarketing@omcoh.org
If you would like to receive The Ohio Beacon electronically, send an email with your request to OMHmarketing@omcoh.org
ADDRESS CORRECTIONS?
Please update your information via Grand View, or 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.
Dear Brethren,
A Message from the CEO
I know 2025 is going to be a fantastic year and it’s already off to a great start. Every day we strive to fulfill our mission, living our Masonic values to help our communities thrive. As you’ll see in the stories shared in this issue, our teams go above and beyond to have a positive impact in the lives of our residents and those in the community.
The joy we experience living our mission does not come without sorrow. It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Brother Robert J. Hanrahan III. Rob was more than just a Brother and a colleague. He was also a friend. We were blessed to know and work with him. If you had the pleasure of meeting him, you know he had an indelible effect on people and will be greatly missed. Working with the board, Rob was instrumental in the creation of our new mission, vision, and value statements. His legacy will live on in the ways he helped set the course for the future of our great organization.
It's the foresight of those who have come before us, and the generosity of past and current supporters of The Ohio Masonic Communities Foundation, that empowers us to live our mission. Through the foundation, we can go above and beyond, bringing residents’ dreams to life and helping them thrive. In this issue, you’ll read about Shirley and the hot air balloon ride she got to take in the final months of her life. Her story is a perfect example of living our mission and the things that our donors make possible. The experience impacted not only Shirley, but her family and our staff.
Living our mission goes beyond our campuses though. It’s an honor to serve Brethren in need through The Ohio Masonic Communities Resource Center. As you’ll see on pages 11 and 12, there are a variety of ways we’re here to assist the Fraternity and others in the community.
Over the last few years, Western Reserve Masonic Community has set the standard for what best in class care and luxury senior living can be. Now it’s time to shift our attention to Springfield Masonic Community. Planning is underway to continue our growth and follow the path that Western Reserve Masonic Community has paved.
As you read these stories, I hope you will consider how you can be involved in our mission as a resident, volunteer, or supporter.
Fraternally, Brother Scott Buchanan CEO, The Ohio Masonic Communities
My Dear Brethren,
A Message from the Grand Master
As we stand at the threshold of a new year we are reminded that Freemasonry, like the changing seasons, moves through cycles of renewal and growth. Just as the sun rises each day to bring light to the world, so too does our Craft continually rekindle its Sacred Flame, illuminating the path of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. The start of 2025 is not merely a turning of the calendar, but a reaffirmation of our timeless principles and a call to action for each of us to carry the light of Freemasonry into the world. This is a time to reflect, to build upon the foundations laid before us, and to look forward with hope and determination as we embrace new opportunities to make a difference.
Let there be no doubt—Freemasonry is alive, well, and thriving. Across our Lodges, I have witnessed Brothers who are truly on fire for the Fraternity, eager to grow, learn, and lead. Their enthusiasm is matched by their generosity, as seen in the overwhelming support for our charity this year, The Ohio Masonic Communities Foundation . Through the efforts of countless Brethren and their families, we are not only providing care and comfort to those in need but also demonstrating the values that define us as Masons. This dedication is proof that the Sacred Flame within us burns brightly, guiding us to be beacons of hope and service in an ever-changing world.
As we step into this new year, let us do so with purpose and gratitude. May 2025 be a year of unity, inspiration, and continued growth for our Craft. Whether in the Lodge room, in our Masonic communities, or within our own families, let us recommit ourselves to the principles that have sustained Freemasonry for centuries. I wish each of you a joyful, prosperous, and meaningful New Year. May the light of Freemasonry continue to shine in your hearts and guide your paths!
Sincerely and Fraternally,
William M. Carter III Grand Master
Find the Hot Air Balloons!
Congratulations to Thomas Lewandowski of Sylvania Pyramid Lodge #287 in Toledo, Ohio, the winner of last edition’s Find the Baseballs search! You have won a prize courtesy of The Grand Lodge of Ohio Store. A Grand Lodge representative will reach out to you to receive your prize. There were 5 Baseballs in the last edition.
On page 14, you can read about Shirley's adventure in a hot air balloon. Search through this issue and see how many times you find the Hot Air Balloon graphic to the right (do not count the example graphic).
Submit the correct answer along with your contact information (name/ address/phone) and Lodge affiliation to The Ohio Masonic Communities, ATTN: OMC Marketing, 2655 W. National Rd., Springfield, Ohio 45504 or via email at OMHmarketing@omcoh.org by Friday, March 21, 2025, and be entered to win a prize courtesy of The Grand Lodge of Ohio Store!
(Your participation serves as permission to include your name and Lodge affiliation in the next edition of the Beacon.)
The Grand Lodge of Ohio
A Message from The Grand Secretary
Brethren and Friends all,
The Grand Lodge Office, on the campus of Springfield Masonic Community, has been under a blanket of snow for the last couple weeks. The forecast for this weekend offers a few days above freezing. We may clear some of this stuff out. Please take a minute to check on your friends and neighbors.
The Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation Relief Fund is introducing a limited edition 2025 tie to raise funds and awareness. You’ll find it slightly different than the 2023 version and we have bow ties this year. Your Grand Lodge Charitable Relief Fund continues to be made available in part by your generous support. The funds are used to provide relief to both Masons and non-Masons when needed across the state of Ohio. Since its’ inception, relief has been granted to more than 770 recipients totaling over $1.1 million dollars. In addition to Relief, other foundation initiatives include the Veterans and First Responders, Masonic Model Student Assistance Program, The Ohio Masonic Communities, Scholarships, Museum and Library, and Ohio Masonic Youth Groups. Please go to Freemason.com to get your tie today or to make a donation in support of your Grand Lodge of Ohio Charitable Foundation.
It’s an exciting time at the Grand Lodge of F.&A.M. of Ohio! Social Media channels are bustling with examples of Masonic brotherhood all around the state. Lodge Installations have been completed and the 2025 Masonic Directory is now available in the Resources tab in Grand View. The Grand Secretary office is preparing the Annual Proceedings. The 2024 edition is scheduled to go to print in March.
The Annual Secretary Association meeting is scheduled for March 8, 2025. It will be conducted at the Aladdin Shrine building in Columbus, Ohio. The agenda is meant to offer Lodge Secretaries and Assistant Secretaries helpful information to assist with their responsibilities. It’s a great opportunity to network with Lodge Secretaries from around the state, share your tips, and maybe learn a few along the way. The Grand Secretary’s Office staff will be there with a limited supply of Lodge materials available. We also plan to offer some Grand View training to both new and experienced Secretaries. We hope to see you there!
I am pleased to share a column with you in this great publication. Whether this article finds you sitting in your easy chair curled up in a blanket with a cup of hot cocoa, or sitting on your patio enjoying the mid-afternoon sun, or maybe at a picnic table outside of your RV with sand in your sandals, I hope you find The Ohio Beacon to be both informative and entertaining. Live your life guided by the tenets of Freemasonry and your light will shine within and around you.
It’s an honor to serve the Grand Lodge of Ohio. The office staff is committed to serve you, our customers, so please call on us if we can be of any assistance.
It's a Great Day for Freemasonry!
Keith W. Newton, PGM Grand Secretary
Being Legendary
Brother Kenneth David, a member of Cortland Lodge #529 in the 2 5th Masonic District was honored earlier this year with our Nation’s highest military award for valor, the Congressional Medal of Honor. He was presented his medal at the White House by President Joe Biden on January 3, 2025. Here is his story, as originally published by the United States Army!
Then-Pfc. Kenneth J. David distinguished himself by acts of gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty on May 7, 1970, while serving as a radio-telephone operator with Compa ny D, 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division, near Fire Support Base Maureen, Thua Thien Province, Republic of Vietnam.
On this date, David's company came under an intense attack from a large hostile force. The enemy’s ferocious initial assault mortally wounded the company’s platoon leader and resulted in numerous other friendly casualties. Upon the initial assault and without hesitation, David handed his radio to his platoon sergeant and moved forward to the defensive perimeter, unleashing a barrage of automatic weapons fire on the enemy. From this location, David bitterly resisted all enemy efforts to overrun his position. Realizing the impact of the enemy assault on the wounded, who were being brought to the center of the perimeter, David – without regard for his own life – moved to a position outside of the perimeter while continuing to engage the enemy.
Each time the enemy attempted to concentrate its fire on the wounded inside the perimeter, David jumped from his position and yelled to draw enemy fire away from his injured comrades and back to himself. Refusing to withdraw in the face of the concentrated enemy fire now directed toward him, he continued to engage the enemy. Although wounded by an exploding satchel charge and running perilously low on ammunition, he tossed hand grenades toward the attackers to effectively counter their fire. The unit’s medic, realizing that David had been injured, moved to his position to provide aid, but David assured him that he was okay and continued to fight on.
David continued to draw enemy fire away from the incoming medevac helicopters, allowing the wounded to be safely evacuated. After allied reinforcements fought their way to his company’s position, David carried a wounded comrade to a sheltered position. He then returned to the contact area and continued to engage the enemy and provide covering fire for the wounded until the enemy broke contact and fled, at which point he too was medically evacuated. David’s conspicuous gallantry, extraordinary heroism and intrepidity, at the risk of his own life, were above and beyond the call of duty and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army... SMIB!
The Grand Lodge of Ohio
Grand Lodge of Ohio Night with the Cleveland Cavaliers!
Once again, Grand Lodge of Ohio has partnered with the Cleveland Cavaliers to bring you a fun night of basketball and fellowship outside of Lodge!
On Sunday, March 30th, at 3:30pm the Cavs will be taking on the Los Angles Clippers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse! Tickets purchased through the link in Grandview and on our social media posts will be discounted! These tickets will also allow you early access to watch the Cavs and Clippers warm up from 1:30pm – 2:00pm!
This event is open to your family and friends as well! We encourage you to spread the word and get your tickets as soon as possible. The better the Cavs play, the faster their tickets will sell! What a great night for a Lodge outing or just a night out with the family!
Don’t forget to grab a picture of yourself and your companions attending, and tag the Cavs and Grand Lodge of Ohio social media accounts!!
See you there!
Grand Lodge of Ohio Museum Announcement!
The Grand Lodge of Ohio is pleased to welcome viewers from all around Ohio – and the world – to view our Grand Lodge of Ohio Museum collection virtually! In the near future we will have our “Museum” tab uploaded to Freemason.com. From there, you can stop in and virtually visit the many wonderful pieces housed in our museum!
We still encourage you to schedule your visit in person as well! We have Open Houses scheduled for the museum on :
March 8th | June 14th
September 20th from 10 am to 3 pm!
Calling all Masonic ham radio operators. There is an Ohio Masonic Fellowship Net for Masonic members who are hams. Non-Masons are also welcome. The Net meets on 80 meters Sunday night at 2130hrs with the frequency of 3865 KHZ. Please joins us for a period of fellowship to discuss Masonic activities in your Lodge or other Masonic bodies you may be in.
Did you know our new Grand Master is a Ham also? W8WMC Net control is K8DHC, Jim, who is MIGM of Grand Council of Ohio Join us on 3865khz, 2130 Sunday evening.
73, Jim K8DHC
The Grand Lodge of
A Family Tradition
When you talk about a Lodge with strong family lineage, Weston Lodge #560 in the 11th Masonic District has just that! The Strow family name is one that has been a constant for many years at Weston Lodge! Not only is the name synonymous with Weston, but it is also synonymous with
The Strow family’s Masonic heritage started with Dr. Raymond M. Strow who was Initiated, Passed, and Raised in the spring of 1916. Although there is no record of Dr. Strow taking an officer’s role at Weston Lodge, there is record of him being a proud 50-year Mason! His son, WB Raymond K. Strow, received his Master Mason shortly after his father in the fall of 1920 and immediately became active in the Lodge. Raymond served Weston Lodge as Worshipful Master in 1942. His time to rest from his Masonic labors was short as he was elected to serve as the Lodge Secretary in 1943. He would continue this role until his passing in 1984. During his time, he served as Secretary for 42 years and was a 64-year Mason! Raymond’s son, Robert A. Strow, who had previously served Weston Lodge as Master, took up his father’s reigns as Secretary and continued to serve his Lodge until his untimely death in 1999. During Robert’s time, he served as Secretary for 15 years, was Worshipful Master, and was a proud 42-year Mason. WB Robert A. Stow was lucky enough to have his sons join Weston Lodge and become Brothers with him as well! Robert J. Strow joined in 2002 and has been a proud Freemason for over 22 years. His Brother, Richard K. Strow followed in his father’s footsteps a few years earlier, petitioning
In Memoriam: Robert J. Hanrahan III
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Robert J. Hanrahan III, Executive Director of The Ohio Masonic Communities Foundation (OMCF). Rob’s departure is a profound loss for all who knew and worked alongside him.
Rob was a man of remarkable compassion, driven by his desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
Joining OMCF in 2018, he brought a visionary approach to his work, focusing on building relationships with donors and expanding resources to support residents. Rob’s dedication to our mission was unwavering and he worked tirelessly to ensure that residents thrived.
Under his leadership, a path toward growth and opportunity was firmly established. His efforts to strengthen the endowment and pursue a capital campaign to support campus reinvestments reflected his commitment to long-term impact. What set him apart, however, was his genuine care for people. Rob’s exceptional gift for making everyone feel seen and appreciated shone through in his work with colleagues, donors, and residents alike.
Rob’s warmth, humility, and optimism left a mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His ability to inspire and bring people together was unmatched, and his legacy will continue to guide our work for years to come.
Rob’s memory reminds us to lead with kindness and generosity. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the extraordinary person he was and the lasting contributions he made to our community.
In honor of Rob’s legacy, we invite you to consider a gift to support the mission he championed so passionately. Let us continue the work he so deeply believed in, ensuring that his vision lives on.
Life is precious, and Rob’s example inspires us to live with purpose and care.
Be a part of our philanthropic activities and become a member of one of our SPRIG groups across the state of Ohio. Contact Dan Shirk at (937) 926-4305 or dshirk@omcoh.org
Celebrate the life and legacy of Rob Hanrahan III with a gift that honors his enduring legacy of care and kindness. omcfoundation.org/remembering
Happy Retirement to Mark Harris
After 13 years of dedication and service, Mark Harris has retired from The Ohio Masonic Communities Foundation. While we are excited for Mark to enjoy retirement with his family, we will miss his passion for helping others and commitment to our mission. He has made a lasting impact on all those he served.
"I have been beyond blessed to be part of this amazing organization and have been very thankful to have made so many friends."
Known for his big heart and musical talent, Mark played a vital role in the foundation’s growth and success. Whether leading initiatives, supporting colleagues, or lending a hand to residents, his warmth and kindness touched every corner of our communities.
Thank you, Mark, for embodying the very best of what it means to serve others. We wish you endless joy and fulfillment as you embark on this well-deserved next chapter!
Please
Notably, Mark spent over 15 years with Cleveland Clinic Foundation, where he raised more than
Mark holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing and Economics from Kent State
March 12 | Springfield Masonic Community
April 10 | Browning Masonic Community
November 6 | Western Reserve Masonic Community
May 3 | Rocky’s Cigar Club and Lounge, Marietta
June 2 | Jefferson Country Club, Columbus
June 22 | Brookside Country Club, Columbus
July 19 | Northern Light Lodge No. 40, Maumee ROSE SOCIETY BALL WELCOME RECEPTION September 5 | Downtown Renaissance Hotel Columbus
A Look Back on 2024
The Ohio Masonic Communities Resource Center (OMCRC) is here to assist Masons, their wives and widows, Eastern Star members, and even non-Masons, with finding the resources they need. Our support includes coordinating services and making referrals, providing education, advocacy, social and emotional support, and connection to benefits. We offer financial assistance and assist individuals to help them stay in their own homes as they age or assist them in moving so they can receive the care and services they need. We are available to do presentations at Masonic meetings and events! Invite us to your Lodge or Chapter to speak or set up a table with information.
Together, in 2024, we were able to help 2,013 people, coordinating referrals and assisting with clinical, financial, and social needs. We are happy to be here for you as we continue into a new year and look at new ways in which we can help. We’re looking forward to an exciting year serving more people, doing more good, and helping our communities thrive.
Hope for the Holidays
For many, the holidays can be hard. The Ohio Masonic Communities Resource Center (OMCRC) wanted to help relieve a bit of the financial stress related to the holidays. We set up a giving tree at Western Reserve Masonic Community and employees helped purchase Christmas presents for 17 children who live throughout the state. OMCRC team members and District 13 Masonic Volunteer Program Chairman Mike Stasiak delivered the presents to 70 families on December 20th. In total, we assisted 63 families this year and hope to help even more during the 2025 holiday season.
Masonic Volunteer Program
As we start 2025, we’d like to acknowledge all our Masonic Volunteer Program (MVP) chairmen and volunteers for their hard work and support. In 2024, they served 2,037 hours and made 298 referrals to The Ohio Masonic Communities Resource Center for assistance, in addition to numerous external referrals. In 2025, we hope to see MVP grow to have a committee in every district! If your Lodge or Chapter would like to learn more about the Masonic Volunteer Program, reach out to:
(740) 262-1974 or e-mail Dkinney@omcoh.org
Winter Readiness
In 2024, Haile Foundation awarded The Ohio Masonic Communities Resource Center (OMCRC) a grant to support people in Brown, Butler, Clermont, Hamilton, and Warren Counties with getting ready for the winter months. During this time, a widow in the 6th Masonic district contacted OMCRC Community Outreach Coordinator Trinity Davidson for help. She needed assistance chopping firewood and moving it closer to her home. Trinity reached out to volunteers in the area who were able to assist this widow with her firewood. While they were there, new needs were discovered, which will be addressed once the weather breaks. If you need any assistance, please contact us so we can assist you.
A special thank you Jay Rothenbach, Milford Lodge #54, for volunteering to assist this widow. We appreciate your time and willingness to help when called on. We share in this client’s thankfulness when she said, "Thank you so much for everything. I truly appreciate your help."
Master Mason Chris Gibbs: Brotherhood, Perseverance, and Paying It
When Chris Gibbs was raised a Mason, his primary desire was simple: to find meaningful friendships and embrace the Masonic principle of servitude. Little did he know that this journey would also provide support in a time of great personal hardship. His story is a powerful reminder of the Fraternal values of brotherhood, compassion, and giving back.
Challenges Strike - In March 2024, Chris faced a series of unexpected challenges. He was laid off from his job during a time when his fiancé was dealing with health concerns. Just when it seemed like things couldn’t get worse, Chris received life-altering news. After undergoing tests, his doctors recommended immediate open-heart bypass surgery, which added to the strain on his already difficult situation.
A Lifeline from the Masonic Brotherhood - With mounting medical bills and no clear solution in sight, Chris recalled hearing about The Ohio Masonic Communities Resource Center (OMCRC). Reaching out for help had always seemed like a last resort, but with one phone call he found the assistance he desperately needed.
Thanks to financial support provided by OMCRC and other Masonic entities, Chris was able to focus on his recovery without the added worry of how to make ends meet. Without financial strain, Chris could concentrate on healing and regaining his strength.
Full Circle and Giving Back - Chris’s story turned full circle. Inspired by the support he received during his time of need, Chris was determined to do his part and help others facing similar hardships. Now, as he recovers from his heart surgery, Chris is not only focused on his own healing but is also actively engaged in the Masonic community and volunteering with OMCRC.
A True Reflection of Freemasonry – Chris embodies everything Freemasonry stands for: commitment to service, importance of brotherhood, and giving back. His journey, seeking friendship and servitude, receiving support in his time of need, and giving back is a shining example of what the Fraternity is about. Chris has shown that the true strength of a Mason lies not only in his ability to withstand challenges but in his willingness to help others do the same.
We are proud to count Chris as a part of our Masonic family, and look forward to seeing how he continues to give back to the Brotherhood. May his story inspire us all to reach out when we need help and pay it forward when we are able.
27th Annual Grand Master’s Florida Reception
In January, Grand Master William M. Carter III, visited our Ohio Brethren living in Florida. He, along with other Grand Line Officers and staff members of The Ohio Masonic Communities (OMC), hosted three luncheons. During each visit, Grand Master Carter shared news from Ohio and presented notable year service awards to those in attendance.
Brother Scott Buchanan, CEO of The Ohio Masonic Communities, shared news about OMC and how, even if you live in Florida, we are here to assist our Ohio Brethren wherever they live through The Ohio Masonic Communities Resource Center. Both he and MWB Carter encouraged them to call the resource center’s toll free number, 1 (877) 881-1623.
The Grand Lodge Officers and The Ohio Masonic Communities staff thank everyone who was able to attend these luncheons. A big thanks also to our hosts for their assistance: MWB George Braatz at Sarasota/Bradenton, MWB Steve Krekus at Bonita Springs, and Brother Jerry Hatton at The Villages.
CHECK OUT OUR GUIDES, PODCAST AND BLOG
Explore our blog, podcast, and guides at omcoh.org/senior-living-simplified or scan the QR code with your mobile device.
Holiday Splendor Abounded Residents!
Christmas Carols, holiday dinner, and a New Years Eve party celebrated by all. The Silver Songbirds choir began the month of holiday splendor with their 2nd annual Christmas Concert on December 8th in the Community Center at Western Reserve Masonic Community (WRMC). The choir of approximately 30 resident vocalists sang five Christmas carols to a packed house. Their closing hymn, O Holy Night, was the favorite of the choir as well as the guests.
The concert, conducted by music therapist Liz Stamm, was well attended by friends and family alike. Liz shared, “Those in attendance were surrounded by feelings of warmth and holiday cheer, embodied by the joy that was found in the voices and on the faces of the residents.”
The Christmas dinner, held on December 20th was a feast. Surf and turf was the perfect holiday dinner along with specialty wine spritzers and mistletoe mules. Two dinner servings were provided to accommodate all the residents ready to celebrate this special evening. Many of the residents enjoyed dressing in Christmas attire while a harpist provided entertainment throughout the evening.
The last few days of December were spent with family, as well as enjoying the company of neighbors. The last celebration of 2024 was a New Years Eve party in the Community Center at WRMC. Each resident received an individual charcuterie with snacks and champagne punch. The Escape provided entertainment for the celebration, and enjoyed getting residents involved in their performance.
WRMC residents rang in the New Year with London, England. Midnight in London was 7 pm in Medina. Auld Lang Syne was sung to welcome in the New Year. As residents returned to their apartments and villas, all were excited to begin 2025 living at Western Reserve Masonic Community.
Shirley Takes Flight in a Hot Air Balloon
Many years ago, Shirley and her late husband made a bucket list. It included things like visiting all 50 states – which they did. At 93, the last item on Shirley’s bucket list was to take a hot air balloon ride. Thanks to Browning Masonic Community (BMC), Shirley got her dream and completed the last item on her bucket list. The weather was perfect for a smooth evening flight, as employees and fellow residents joined in celebration.
Shirley was surrounded by four generations of family for her flight, including all of her children. Her son surprised her by flying in from Oklahoma City just to see her take this flight. He was also surprised to learn that he would get to ride in the hot air balloon with his mother.
ShaDonna Hadley, Executive Director of BMC, shared, “I’m so proud of the team for making Shirley’s dream come true.”
Shirley, her son, and their pilot departed from the front yard of a resident in the Five Point Acres community and landed at Toledo Executive Airport. Her family and BMC employees chased the balloon across the countryside to be part of the landing.
Hot air balloons get a lot of attention, stopping traffic as well as people in their yards to watch the festivities. Shirley learned just how quiet it is while flying. It’s easy to spot landmarks when you are looking down on them, and Shirley explained some of the sights to her son and the pilot.
2nd Annual Festival of Trees Brought Great Crowds
The Ohio Masonic Communities Foundation’s Auxiliary Rose SPRIG I volunteer group raised funds to support Browning Masonic Community.
Browning Masonic Community (BMC) spent December 7-9th showcasing beautifully decorated Christmas trees at Festival of Trees. The trees came in all sizes and were decorated in different themes. One thing is for sure, there were items decorated to meet everyone’s favorite holiday style.
The weekend began with a reception on Friday evening as a thank you to sponsors and participating Lodges. Saturday started with Breakfast with Santa. The sale, which was open to the public, lasted Saturday and Sunday. When the weekend ended, everything was sold out!
Rose SPRIG I chairperson, Becky Vincent, shared, “I am very thankful for those who attended and who helped to make this event a success.” The group raised just over $17,000 this year.
After the flight, Shirley reflected, “The flight was so smooth and quiet, not bumpy at all. I am so grateful. This was just wonderful!”
The pilot, Brad Burdue of Whitehouse, OH ended the evening by telling the story of the first hot air balloon flights back in the 17th century. It was three animals – a duck, a rooster, and a goat –who took the first flight, not a human. Observers were afraid of the balloons, so when people started flying, they carried a bottle of champagne to give to the landowners upon landing. So began the tradition of a champagne toast at the end of every flight.
As the evening came to a close, Shirley was brought to tears reminiscing on how beautiful the experience was. As you looked around at the family and friends who gathered in celebration, you could see that Shirley was not the only person in tears. There were tears of joy all around because Shirley got to take her ride in a hot air balloon and complete the final item on the bucket list she and her husband began so long ago. Just a few weeks later, Shirley passed away on what would have been her and her husband’s 72nd wedding anniversary. It was an honor to not only know and care for Shirley, but to make it possible for her to complete her bucket list.
Scan the QR Code with your mobile device to watch a video documenting Shirley's adventure.
2nd Annual Festival of Wreaths: Another Successful Event
The Ohio Masonic Communities Foundation’s Auxiliary Rose SPRIG VI and Springfield businesses raised funds to support Springfield Masonic Community.
Springfield Masonic Community (SMC) residents involved with Rose SPRIG VI were determined to make the 2nd Annual Festival of Wreaths a huge success and they did just that. The event was held on the weekend of December 7th, beginning Friday evening with a reception for sponsors and board members.
Saturday morning began early as kids enjoyed Breakfast with Santa. Then the two days of sales began with 50 wreaths and 12 trees beautifully decorated, as well as handmade holiday items, raising $11,000.
Rose SPRIG VI Chairperson, Sandy Magill, shared, “I didn’t even know if I could run this event due to a little health problem, but by the grace of God I was able to continue. The help from our residents made this event the success that it was.”
2655 W. National Rd.
Springfield, OH 45504-3698 theohiobeacon.com
The Ohio Masonic Communities Scholarship Program
For the 2024-2025 school year The Ohio Masonic Communities Scholarship Program received 71 applications. Twenty scholarships were awarded, with two awards being $4,000 and others ranging from $1,000 to $3,000, for a total of $40,000.
In response to receiving a scholarship, one recipient shared, “I can see my goals as clear as my conviction, and with the support of such a wonderful organization as yours, I am sure I will reach them.”
The Ohio Masonic Communities Scholarship Program is an endowment, established to provide tuition assistance for eligible full-time students working toward a bachelor’s, associate’s or other undergraduate degree program at an accredited institution. Upon meeting the criteria, applicants must complete a five-page application form. Students may access the scholarship forms at:
omcoh.org/scholarship-program
Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Applications and supporting documents may be submitted online or by mail:
The Ohio Masonic Communities Scholarship Program
Attn: Joel Boehmer, The Ohio Masonic Communities 2655 West National Road Springfield, OH 45504
Faxed or emailed applications are not accepted. The application deadline for the 2025-2026 school year is April 4, 2025.
