Beacon 3 2010 5

VOLUME 17, ISSUE 2

March/April 2010

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

Ohio Masons To Honor Korean & Vietnam Veterans M

asons, veterans and their families will gather at the Springfield Masonic Community for a special dedication on June 6 – Ohio Masonic Home Day. Grand Master Terry W. Posey and the Grand Lodge officers will dedicate two new granite memorials honoring Ohio Masons who served in the U.S. military during the Korean War and Vietnam War. “When I graduated from high school in 1968, our country was in turmoil,” explained Grand Master Posey. “Sadly, our soldiers

returning from Southeast Asia were at best ignored and at worst met with violence in their own country.

“These memorials provide an opportunity to express our gratitude to these veterans, who we owe so much.”

The monuments will be erected near those honoring veterans of the First and Second World Wars and will be funded by contributions from Ohio Masons.

“I am asking every Mason – veteran and non-veteran alike – and all Lodges to contribute to

Commemorative challenge coin

the construction of these memorials to honor those Masons who served,” said Grand Master Posey.

Those wishing to make a donation toward the cost of erecting these monuments may do so by visiting the front page of www.freemason.com. A commemorative challenge coin will be given to those offering donations of $100 or more.

Freemasonry – It’s All In The Family At The Ohio Lodge of Research Table Lodge

In This Issue: 2nd Masonic District Shares Its Leaders... 3 Hungry To Help the Community............. 6 Three Programs, Two Lives, One Goal...... 7 A Veteran Looks Back and Forward... 8 Masons Inducted into Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame........... 9 Longaberger Masonic Basket..... 11

Pictured above are fifteen members of Oxford Lodge #67 that attended the Ohio Lodge of Research’s Table Lodge in Oxford. This photo includes five fathers, eight sons, one uncle and one great uncle.

Masonry In The 21st Century

By Terry W. Posey, Grand Master

The 21st Century has come for-

ward bringing us fears, happiness and an extreme sense of foreboding.

We have an extreme manner of information gathering. The Internet has allowed millions of people absolute education about Freemasonry as well as a piquing of interest by movies, Internet searches and books which have brought Masonry in a favorable light.

Freemasonry is not a charity, although Masons do charitable work. Freemasonry is a fraternity, first, last and forever.

The secrets of Freemasonry are contained within faithful breast.

They are the feelings of filial love, brought forth from a deep appreciation of learning, thought, caring and assistance.

Attendance at a fraternal meeting brings peace, a recognition of a spirit of oneness, and a feeling of support by others who have never met nor conversed with a Brother.

The Beacon is published bi-monthly 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 labels.

Chad Simpson, Director of Program Development The Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Ohio P.O. Box 629 Worthington, OH 43085-0629 614/885-5318 csimpson@freemason.com Brett Turner, Manager of Marketing and Communications The Ohio Masonic Home 2655 W. National Road Springfield, OH 45504-3698 937/525-3025 bturner@ohiomasonichome.org

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Freemasonry in 2010 is similar to Freemasonry in 1808. In 1808, Masons would gather together in someone’s home, a tavern, a business, or in some cases, a Masonic Temple. Today, we meet in Temples and as 200 years earlier, we beseech God for assistance in our work. We make charitable contributions, and we initiate good and true men into our fraternity.

When you think you are being “put upon” or injured in some way, consider these words which were inscribed on a plaque at

Terry W. Posey, Grand Master

the Institute of Rehabilitative Medicine in New York.

They have been a source of inspiration and helped countless people through many problems and difficulties.

“I asked God for strength that I might achieve.

I was made weak, that I might learn to humbly obey.

I asked for health that I might do greater things.

I was given infirmity that I might do better things.

I asked for riches that I might be happy.

I was given poverty that I might be wise.

I asked for power that I might have the praise of persons.

I was given weakness that I might feel the need of God. I asked for all things that I might enjoy life.

I was given life, that I might enjoy all things.

I got nothing that I asked for – but everything I had hoped for.

Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.

I, among all people, am most richly blessed.”

Save The Date For A Day At The Ballpark It’s time to mark your calendars for the 72nd annual Shrine/Masons Family Day with the Cincinnati Reds. Join the Grand Master at the Great American Ball Park on Sunday, Aug. 1, 2010 at 1:10 p.m., and catch the Reds as they take on the Atlanta Braves.

A special ticket discount is available for Shriners and Masons. The first 10,000 children in attendance, who are fourteen years old and younger, will receive a free T-shirt.

Visit www.reds.com/masons to reserve your seats with this special offer.

Uniting In The Right Way

By Worshipful Brother David Bannerman, Chief Executive Officer, The Ohio Masonic Home

There are twenty members of

Congress who represent Ohio; two Senators and eighteen members of the House.

Within that group are two Masons (Mike Turner and Bob Latta). When I visit Washington, I like to visit as many offices as I can and cement a good relationship.

Recently, I spent some time on my annual visit to Washington DC to talk with members of Congress and their staff about the issues affecting older adults.

I visited eight offices of members of the Ohio delegation. I visited with Senator Voinovich’s staff, as well as the staff of House members Bro. Mike Turner, Jim Jordan, Bro. Bob Latta, Steve Austria, John Boehner, Dennis Kucinich, and Betty Sutton. I met four of the members in person. Sometimes

others were with me, sometimes I was alone. I was not able to get to every office. I would have liked to see all 20 members of the Ohio delegation and discuss the issues so important to our elders and The Ohio Masonic Home. In every office I found people willing to listen to our concerns.

Several of the other members of the Masonic Communities and Services Association were there as well. Some visited their delegation, others visited Masonic members of Congress. I was even able to connect someone from Ohio with someone from Kentucky through our Masonic Communities and Services Association. One staff member asked to become a Mason.

In the midst of the turmoil about health care, I am reminded

2nd Masonic District Shares Its Leaders With The Rest of Ohio Each Grand Master has the privilege of appointing a Grand Tyler, Grand Chaplain, and Junior Grand Deacon. Grand Master Terry W. Posey chose three very active Freemasons from the 2nd Masonic District to serve in those offices during the 2009-2010 Masonic year.

Right Worshipful Brother Clifford P. Koss was chosen to serve as Grand Tyler. He is a Past Master of Huber Heights Lodge #777 and a Past District Deputy of the 2nd Masonic District. Cliff is the master of ceremonies for the Gabriel Lodge of Perfection in the Valley of Dayton.

He retired from the Civil Service Department of the United States Air Force. A soft-spoken man, RW Brother Koss is always ready to lend a hand where help is needed.

Right Worshipful Brother Nathan H. Pelfrey, who has become known for his inspirational words, was chosen to serve as the Grand Chaplain.

He is a Past Master of Solar Lodge #730 – one of only two daytime Lodges in Ohio. He is also a Past

of the chaplain’s comments in the 4th degree of the Scottish Rite: “The things that unite us are far more fundamental than those that divide us.” The issues facing our government are cause for serious reflection, but legislation is found in the art of compromise. I hope we can find enough things that unite us so that those who need care will receive care when they need it in the place they call home.

District Education Officer and Past District Deputy Grand Master of the 2nd Masonic District. RW Brother Pelfrey is a member of the Grand Lodge Information and Education Committee. He is a Past Sovereign Prince from the Scottish Rite Valley of Dayton, where he serves as the Degree Director for the 15th Degree.

Professionally, he is an insurance agent in the Clayton, Ohio area.

Right Worshipful Brother Douglas N. Kaylor was selected as Junior Grand Deacon. He is a Past Master of Dayton Lodge #147 and a Past District Deputy of the 2nd Masonic District. He is a new member of the Grand Lodge Information and Education Committee. RW Brother Kaylor is also a Past Thrice Potent Master from the Scottish Rite Valley of Dayton. During his working hours, he is the Director of Library Services at Sinclair Community College.

Left to right: Junior Grand Deacon Douglas N. Kaylor, Grand Chaplain Nathan H. Pelfrey, Grand Tyler Clifford P. Koss March/April 2010

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Grand Master Hosts 3 Luncheons For Ohio Masons During Annual Florida Visit N

early 500 Ohio Masons and their wives now residing in Florida gathered at three luncheons in Florida in January to greet Grand Master Terry W. Posey during his visitations there.

At the luncheons in Bradenton, Ft. Myers, and Tavares, Most Worshipful Brother Posey gave a review of Grand Lodge happenings back home. He also presented 35, 40, 50, 60 and 65 year pins to eligible recipients who attended.

Representatives from The Ohio Masonic Home were also on hand to explain its programs and opportunities. Local event chairmen were Right Worshipful Brother Kenneth Gavins, of Sarasota, Right Worshipful Brother Richard Scobie, of Ft. Myers, and Worshipful Brother Alan Blevins of Tavares.

Eight Grand Lodge Officers and their ladies, and nine Past Grand Masters and their wives attended one or more of the three luncheons which are held each January.

Audience at the Shrine Temple in Ft. Myers listens intently to the Grand Master’s remarks.

The Grand Master addresses a group on new 50-year Ohio Masons, who received their pins and certificates at the Ft. Myers luncheon.

Driving A Course To Road Safety One of the top concerns among seniors as they age is driving safety.

Changing laws, new technology and other factors can make hitting the road intimidating.

Browning Masonic Community is helping out by offering the AARP Driver Safety Program. The course was created to help seniors feel more confident when they drive.

Since so much has changed over the years, this course tries to teach participants how to adapt and anticipate.

“We know that older adults often see the loss of a driver’s license as a loss of independence. If we can help provide a course to enhance their abilities to stay independent and active then that’s a resource we aim to be a part of,” said Tara Lloyd,

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Browning Masonic Community marketing director.

Tara was so supportive of the program that she took a training class to be able to teach it. This will allow the community to host classes periodically onsite or take it on the road to senior centers, churches or to other groups who show interest.

Following is a list of what participants will learn, according to the course description: • How to minimize the effects of dangerous blind spots • How to maintain the proper following distance behind another car • The safest ways to change lanes and make turns at busy intersections • Proper use of safety belts, air bags, anti-lock brakes, and new technologies used in cars

• Ways to monitor your own and others’ driving skills and capabilities • The effects of medications on driving • The importance of eliminating distractions, such as eating, smoking, and cell-phone use The class runs four hours. This is a test free program; participants won’t be evaluated on their skills or how much they’ve retained. Those who complete the course will earn a certificate of completion. Many insurance companies give discounts for participants who complete this course and continue to take it every three years.

For information on Browning Masonic Community, call 866/878-4055; or go to www.browningmasoniccommunity.org.

Wedding Bells Chime Again For Vow Renewals 745 collective years of marriage was celebrated

by 14 resident couples as Western Reserve Masonic Community in Medina became a chapel for a day during its first ever Resident Wedding Vow Renewal recently.

Activities director Paula Bogre went all out for the occasion, right down to stuffed filet, champagne and red roses.

“This is something I’ve wanted to do for close to 10 years,” said Paula, who has been at Western Reserve for 6 years. “I thought it would be touching.”

Each of the residents participating walked down a white runner strewn with red rose petals to a flowered and lace decorated arch to renew their vows, with a visiting minister presiding.

The event was particularly special for those residents separated by health needs.

Although living in different areas of the campus, the day brought them together and the result melted hearts in the audience according to Paula.

Fellow residents and families were there to support their neighbors and friends with 128 people attending.

One young lady even wore

her grandmother’s wedding dress to honor her vow renewal.

Following the services, the happy couples and guests cut a three-tiered wedding cake in the rotunda. They returned to the chapel where a four-piece band entertained while a grand meal and the cake were served, followed by a champagne toast.

Paula interviewed all the couples for the audience, asking how many years they had been married, how they met and their secrets to a successful marriage. Each participating couple was given a keepsake silver decorative husband and wife bell, photos and a video and priceless memories.

Paula said one of the best things was seeing the joy on the residents’ faces and the proud families attending, that made it all worthwhile. The ceremony was the topic of many dining room conversations at Western Reserve for weeks afterward.

For more information on Western Reserve Masonic Community, call 866/433-1514 or visit our web site at www.westernreservemasonic community.org.

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Hungry To Help The Community S

taying independent in your home is easier when you have a good meal. The effort of Springfield Masonic Community’s Food and Nutrition Department is keeping several area seniors fed five days a week.

Springfield Masonic Community has supported the Springfield Elderly United Meals on Wheels

program for many, many years. Now its workload has nearly tripled.

When a partnership with another organization ended earlier this year, it meant several seniors would be without weekday meals. Meals on Wheels Director Peggy Holbrook turned to Ken Pool, Springfield Masonic Community’s campus Food and Nutritional Services General Manager for assistance.

Ken then turned to the pros on his staff – Peggy Holder and her crew (Tiffani Nelson, Kristen Canter, Brandi Murphy, Debbie Strodes and Po Murphy) for their assistance and despite the extra workload, they were eager to help.

The plan calls for both lunches and dinners to be prepared, between 80-110 meals a day. Lunch menus are based on what the campus residents receive, but meals are customized based on a customer’s likes, dislikes and nutritional needs.

Some can’t have certain foods, so they can get substitutions. Lunch meals consist of a hot item, vegetable, starch, dessert and a beverage while dinners are a soup/sandwich combination.

The staff is quick – it takes four associates 12-15 minutes to dish up and package the hot meals.

“They are a well oiled machine,” said Ken. Each month, a different community church or volunteer group is responsible for picking up the meals at the Springfield Masonic Community campus and distributing them throughout the area.

Although the staff is quick in getting the meals together, the process begins at 6 a.m. with the cooking and planning. Individual labels must be printed for each meal; Tiffani Nelson tracks them just as she does for individual residents on the campus.

Although it’s extra work, it gives the staff a chance to work together directly, giving a teamwork feeling according to Peggy Holder, food service manager. And the satisfaction of knowing they’ve helped others makes for a good feeling the entire day.

“I’ve personally known some of the people they’ve helped,” said Peggy Holder. “They’ve told me how much they appreciate this.”

Peggy Holbrook agreed. “The Masonic Community has always been involved, and their helping out has meant a lot to our community.

We’ve had compliment upon compliment on the food.”

She said even little things like the trays for the food being microwaveable means a lot.

Ken is also looking at other potential partnerships. “We’d like to build a reputation in the community for helping.”

For more information on Springfield Masonic Community, call 888/290-2664 or visit us at www.springfieldmasoniccommunity.org.

Cornerstone to Expand Its Home Health, Hospice Services

In 2009, 159 Clark, Champaign

and Logan county residents found comfort through Cornerstone Home Health and Hospice.

Others will be able to find similar comfort soon. The organization plans to expand its services to additional counties in 2010.

“We are pleased to be able to offer our service to more families,” said Cornerstone President Mary Lough-Pencil. “We would love to be statewide within two years.”

The service also made 4,500 visits compared to 2,120 the previous year. Cornerstone was

acquired in 2008 to be a part of the Masonic Senior Services family.

More information on areas that will offer Cornerstone’s services will be available in the near future.

For more information, call 877/684-5710 or go to www.cornerstonehealthcare.org.

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Three Programs, Two Lives, One Goal I-CARE • Masonic Helping Hands Masonic Financial Assistance Corporation

The lives of a mother and son were

improved recently following the efforts of three Ohio Masonic Home subsidiaries: I-CARE, Masonic Helping Hands and the Masonic Financial Assistance Corporation.

Cincinnati area I-CARE coordinator Shelley Fricke received a call from a Masonic widow and Eastern Star member requesting help for her adult son, who had suffered a stroke at a young age, leading to right-side paralysis.

I-CARE is a service for senior Masons, their wives widows and Eastern Star members or members of an appendant body.

The stroke also caused a condition called Aphasia, which refers to a person’s difficulty understanding speech and making their speech understood.

Despite all this, her son has been living independently for years in his own apartment with his mother’s assistance. It later became harder to maintain his independence as his needs increased and the mother ran into her own medical difficulties.

In her discussion, Shelley determined that he could use some assistance with the cleaning of his apartment and other necessary services, such as grocery shopping and medical appointments. His mother, as his caregiver, also needed some respite time.

Shelley’s first suggestion for getting assistance to the son was the Medicaid Waiver program for young, disabled people. He had been on the waiting list for some time but was recently found to not meet their eligibility criteria. After pursuing all of the options, it was determined that this gentleman was

not eligible for any other available assistance programs.

Shelley then talked to the family about their in-home care options; however paying for services was going to be difficult. With an immediate need for help, Shelley consulted with John White, the President of the Masonic Financial Assistance Corp. (MFAC), about the possibility of providing financial assistance to help the client to subsidize in-home care from Masonic Helping Hands.

Masonic Helping Hands, which has offices in the greater Cincinnati, Dayton/Springfield and Toledo areas, offers nonmedical services to individuals on a private pay, sliding scale rate.

After review of the client’s application, MFAC found the client was eligible and qualified to receive financial assistance to cover part of the costs of services provided through Masonic Helping Hands, which visited with the client and set up a plan of care for service.

The client is now receiving 4-6 service hours a week from an aide.

The hours are used for transportation, errands and the homemaking tasks he is unable to do.

The son is very satisfied with the service he is receiving. His mother, while she continues to assist her son, is finding it helpful as she is able to spend more time actually visiting him. The client is able to continue living in his own apartment with this help.

This would not have been possible without the combined efforts of I-CARE, Masonic Helping Hands and the Masonic Financial Assistance Corporation.

Grotto Grand Monarch Is Ohio Mason Clarence E. “Pierre” Shawver – an Ohio Mason – is now serving as the Grand Monarch of the Grottoes of North America.

Brother Shawver, of Berlin Center, OH, is a 25-year member of Western Star Lodge #21 in Boardman. He has been active in York Rite and High Twelve organizations in eastern Ohio.

Clarence E. Shawver – Grand Monarch

He is a Past Monarch of Aut Mori Grotto, past president of Ohio Grotto Association, and has been active with the Grotto Clowns.

He is a Past Master Councilor of Denbrook DeMolay Chapter in Cleveland.

Brother Shawver and his wife, Barbara, have three children.

He is a U.S. Navy veteran and an American Legion member for nearly 40 years.

The Ohio Grottos turn out in force every year at the opening ceremonies of Ohio Special Olympics Summer Games and grill burgers and brats for their Masonic Brothers and the Special Olympians.

For more information about the programs listed above please contact call 888/286-0010 or visit our web site www.mssohio.org.

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A Veteran Looks Back and Forward Jr. Nichols was part of three of the biggest events of the 20th Century as a member of the U.S. Air Force – World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. As a veteran, Brother Nichols, a resident of Springfield Masonic Community and Smithfield Lodge #182, is especially looking forward to Ohio Masonic Home Day on June 6.

That’s the day permanent monuments dedicated to the veterans of the Korean and Vietnam Wars will join a similar monument to veterans of World War I and World War II on the Springfield Masonic Community campus in a special ceremony.

airplanes, he soon found himself studying aeronautics and training on B-25s and other aircraft. He graduated as a flight officer in May 1945 and waited to be reassigned, but the war soon ended.

Jr. returned home to marry Jean, but by 1946 was offered a position as a master sergeant to reenlist in 1946. He continued flight engineer education and when the Korean War began in 1950, Brother Nichols was in a combat ready crew, although never called to action.

In the early 1960s, Jr. and his teams supported the escalating Vietnam effort by establishing air refueling stations in the area. Brother Nichols planned to continue his service, but decided to retire from active duty in the best interest of his family.

Jr. used his mechanical background to work in a steel mill following his military career. The military would continue to be an important part of his life. His son and future son in law would later serve in the Air Force in Vietnam.

Jr. Nichols stands Jr.’s granddaughter next to the Veterans also followed in his Recognition plaque. footsteps and became an Air Force officer, eventually working at the Pentagon for former Chief of Staff of the Air Jr. was a high school senior in 1943 when Force, T. Michael Moseley. he dedicated himself to the American Brother Nichols is glad to see recognition effort in World War II. Inspired by his for veterans of the Korean and Vietnam future wife’s brother and his dad, a World Wars.

War I veteran, “It’s way past time for a memorial. he enlisted.

The military did their job then and are Already interested in model aircrafts still doing a good job. I was ready to fight. and paper airplanes, Brother Nichols I feel lucky to have served and to have enlisted in the Army Air Corps. Already supported so many good men. I believe I interested in model aircrafts and paper had a guardian angel looking after me.”

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6 Master Masons Inducted into Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame Twenty people were inducted into the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame late last year – and six of them were Master Masons.

The Hall of Fame is not a “military” hall of fame, but honors veterans who served their country in military service and then continue to serve and inspire fellow citizens with their deeds and accomplishments during life.

Governor Ted Strickland and Bill Hartnett, director of the Ohio Department of Veterans Service conducted the ceremony in Columbus.

Plaques representing the honorees are on permanent display in the Vern Riffe Building in downtown Columbus.

The six Ohio Masons who were part of the 2009 Hall of Fame Class are:

Brother Jenkins is a Director and former Chairman of the Ohio Presbyterian Retirement Services Board. He retired as a Marine colonel after 43 years of active and reserve duty.

• The late Walter M. Lawson, Jr., of Lima, who was a 56-year member of Lima Lodge #205, died in December, 2006. He used his G.I. bill education benefits to obtain his law degree, and served as President of the Allen County Bar Association in 1975. He was adjutant treasurer and a life member of the Disabled American Veterans, as well as being active in the American Legion and VFW. He was also active in the Optimist Club.

• Lewis E. Baker, of Coshocton, a 62-year • Herbert W. Seelbach, of Girard, a 69-year member of Freeport Lodge #415, was a member of Lexington Lodge #250, retired prisoner of war for 20 months, held by after a 32-year career as an instrumental Germany in World War II. He has been an music teacher. Brother Seelbach received advocate for countless POWs and their the Freedoms Foundation Outstanding widows, helping many veterans receive Teacher Award in 1968. He has conducted benefits. He has been active in the VFW, more than 175 community concerts for volunteer fire department, and school board. the WD Packard Band at the Packard He wrote a book, My War, about his war Music Hall in Warren. Instead of a career experiences. in show business, he dedicated his life to teaching and being a role model for young • Donald I. Jakeway, of Johnstown, a people. He is a 56-year member of the 52-year member of Center Lodge #86, American Legion. has been very active in a number of civic activities, including being president of • Robert A. Woods, of West Chester, a village council and active in the American 15-year member of Colerain Lodge #759, Legion. He established a scholarship at has won numerous “excellent practice” the local high school and athletic fields are citations for his Native Indian-run named in his honor. construction company. Brother Woods has provided habitat home improvements • Theodore G. Jenkins, of Toledo, a 58-year for the disabled and economically member of East Townsend Lodge #322, challenged in his community. He is a is a retired executive with Libby-Owenslife member of DAV, VFW, Native Ford Glass Company. He has been active American Veterans Association, and in several local and statewide non-profit Vietnam Veterans of America. groups, plus educational, healthcare, religious, military and civic groups.

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Tippecanoe Lodge #174 Serves Lunch to Those Who Serve Each Thursday since January, the members of Tippecanoe Lodge in Tipp City have served a hot lunch to the city’s public servants.

Policemen, firemen, emergency squad members, and other city workers have had a chance to break bread with the Brethren of Tippecanoe Lodge.

“This is just our way to show our appreciation for their service, as well as to add another approach to Grand Master Posey’s encouragement to show our support for public servants,” explained lodge secretary Bob Terrell.

“We have had approximately 35 guests and members at each week’s meal – often different people from the week before. Several members of our Lodge are some of those we are thanking.”

Conference of Grand Masters of North America “Inspired by our History – Embracing our Future”

Grand Masters from across North America along with leaders of several of the national appendant organizations assembled at the Gateway Marriott Hotel in Alexandria, Virginia on February 21-23 for the Conference of Grand Masters of North America.

Grand Master Terry W. Posey (third from left) served on the executive committee that organized the conference and helped to ensure that it was worthy of the time of so many of Freemasonry’s leaders.

Deputy Grand Master Bradford Goebel was elected by the conference to serve as its chairman for 2011.

Additionally, February 22 marked George Washington’s birthday and the 100th

anniversary of the George Washington National Masonic Memorial. As part of that celebration the Grand Masters were photographed on the steps of the memorial as they were for a 1956 cover of Life Magazine.

Lowell Masonic Lodge’s Stock Food Banks Challenge Lowell Masonic Lodge #436 has issued a challenge to all lodges of the 17th Masonic District to collect non-perishable items for food banks in their local service areas. This effort has been dubbed the “Stock Food Banks” challenge, and its organizers hope that it will become an annual tradition.

All donations of food or nonperishables are to be donated by the lodge to a local food pantry on a monthly basis throughout the year.

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“We are, by character, a benevolent organization, which practices charity for all mankind. My brothers, we are in trying times now with the economic problems confronting our nation and our region. It is time for us to practice what we say we are.

Let’s roll up our sleeves, collect food and non-perishables, and donate them to those in need,” challenged Tim Beardsley of Lodge #436.

lodge secretary, who will report those results to the District Deputy. Finally, take what has been collected and give it to a local food bank for use by those in need.

To win this challenge, the rules are simple. Collect all the food and non-perishables a lodge can collect, count and turn in the results to the

“It is our hope that the Stock Food Banks challenge may spread to other Masonic Districts,” explained Beardsley.

What about winning the challenge?

Every lodge wins as well as the people in their service area when Masons work to stock food banks in their area.

Watson Assumes Top National Post In Allied Masonic Degrees Three Ohioans were installed in February as officers of the Grand Council, Allied Masonic Degrees of the United States (AMD).

as Grand Master of the Grand Encampment, Knights Templar.

C. Michael Watson, center, was elected Most Venerable Grand Master of the Grand Council. Most Worshipful Brother Watson, a Past Grand Master of Ohio, is serving as Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge. He is Past Grand Master of DeMolay International.

Franklin C. Boner, right, was reelected Grand Secretary of the national From left, William H. Koon II – Sr. Grand Deacon of AMD organization.

AMD, C. Michael Watson – Grand Master of AMD, He is also a and Franklin C. Boner – Grand Secretary of AMD. Past Grand All of the Grand Council, AMD, Commander of the Grand officers were installed by George O. Commandery of Ohio and Braatz, Past Grand Master and Past is currently serving as Grand Secretary of Ohio, who is also Secretary of Center Lodge a Past Grand Master of AMD. #86 in Johnstown, Ohio.

William H. Koon II, left, was elected Senior Grand Deacon of AMD. A Past Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery, Knights Templar, of Ohio, he is also serving

Longaberger® Masonic Basket

Longaberger® and other basket and collection names are the property of The Longaberger® Company. This fundraiser is in no way connected with or sponsored by The Longaberger® Company.

If you missed purchasing the 2008 Longaberger® Grand Lodge of Ohio Bicentennial basket to show your Masonic pride, here is an opportunity to purchase a customized Longaberger lapel pin design. All profits will be equally distributed to The Ohio Masonic Home and the Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation.

For sale are the popular TV Time™ Basket and the new 7” Round Keeping™ Basket. These baskets are whitewashed in color with a primary trip strip (bottom) of red and a secondary trip (top) of dark blue. The trim strips are accented by customized square and compass tack covers. The whitewashed Longaberger lids are engraved and painted by Basket Accessories, LLC located in Akron, PA. Tax is included in the price. Orders will not be sent to The Longaberger® Company until 251 orders of each basket design have been received. After that, please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery. Orders will be taken through October 31, 2010.

Get your basket before they’re all gone!

TV Time™ Basket @ $125 $___________ Shipping, Handling & Insurance per set @ $18 $___________ TOTAL $___________ 7” Round Keeping™ Basket $110 $___________ Shipping, Handling & Insurance per set @ $18 $___________ TOTAL $___________

Name Address City/State/ZIP Phone

Tax is included in the price. Check or money order only, made payable to James Oughterson, Independent Longaberger® Home Consultant, 2 Winnipeg Plaza, Washington Court House, Ohio 43160. Please note on the memo line: Masonic Basket Set. Questions can be answered by James Oughterson, 740/335-1612 or jimkayo@roadrunner.com.

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Make A Change In Your Community – Become A Masonic Model Representative The Grand Lodge of Ohio is looking for people who want to help bring the Masonic Model Student Assistance Program (MMSAP) to their schools.

MMSAP Representatives would be given all of the resources they need to present the program to their local schools and Lodges.

The MMSAP is an intensive three-day workshop for educators to learn how to identify, intervene with, and create appropriate referrals for students who may be at risk for substance abuse, depression, suicide or violence.

In schools that have received the MMSAP training, two out of three referred students improved and stabilized their attendance; approximately 7 out of 10 referred students were either promoted or graduated from high school; and two out of three referred students showed reduction in suspensions and positive behavior changes.

To become a Masonic Model Representative, contact Mark Bernardin at (800) 292-6092, or email mark@freemason.com.

For more information about the Masonic Model, visit www.freemason.com/mmsap.

Brother Schlosser Is The New Fire Chief in Defiance Pictured is the Mayor of Defiance, Bob Armstrong swearing in Brother E. Peter Schlosser as the new Fire Chief. His wife Paula is holding his Masonic Bible, which was presented to him in 1979 when he joined Sherwood Lodge #620. The ceremony was held in the City of Defiance Council Chambers.

A Reminder of Colder Days – Freezin’ For A Reason On February 20, 2010, a fan club of over twenty family and friends witnessed eight members of Whitehall Lodge #761, including Worshipful Master Mark Redfern plus Worshipful Master David Bush of Neoacacia Lodge #595, dive into the icy water of a pool located at the Crew Stadium in Columbus to raise money for the Ohio Special Olympics.

In that one moment, they created a new lodge tradition, forwarded the fraternity’s tenant of Relief and reminded themselves that Whitehall’s long history of “fellowship with fun” is more than mere words. All of this as their mothers, wives, children and friends cheered them on (or shook their heads in disbelief) in 20º weather.

The participating Brothers sold commemorative T-shirts for a minimum pledge of $25 and used the internet, texting, Facebook and good old fashion arm-twisting to eventually raise nearly $2,000 in pledges for Ohio Special Olympics.

OSU Professor Recognized As A 2010 Fellow of The Masonic Society The Masonic Society has announced that Dr. José O. Díaz, a Past Master of York Lodge #563, has been selected as one of its 2010 Fellows in recognition of his research of Freemasonry and American fraternalism as well as his having taught a freshman seminar entitled, “From National Treasure to The Da Vinci Code: Freemasons, Fact, and Fiction,” at The Ohio State University.

Díaz is an Associate Professor and Special Collections Curator at Ohio State University. His specialty is early American history. His research focuses on Public History, American fraternalism, and the social and military history of the American Civil War.

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March/April 2010

Dr. Díaz teaches his OSU seminar on Freemasonry.

March/April 2010

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FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE

There is a time for everything and a season for every activity…

By Right Worshipful Brother Timothy B. Strawn, CAE, President, The OMH Benevolent Endowment Foundation

We’ve all read or heard this

message sung and, as we each benefit from our personal accumulation of years, we understand just how true the statement is. For us, at the Springfield campus, it’s been a season of change.

Late last year, a number of employees took advantage of an early retirement option and left our organization. Our entire campus was impacted as folks from several organizations took the offer. In the Foundation, three employees: Linda Gast, Executive Assistant to the President; Ken Hershberger, Director, Planned Giving; and Ron Molen, Director, Development, exercised their option to leave.

Another staff member, Marcia Miller, a 22-year employee of the Home, had long planned to retire at the end of October and did so. Yet another staff member, Barb Maurer, transferred back to a department in which she had previously worked.

All five of these employees provided valuable, dedicated service to the Foundation during their years with us. We were sorry to see them go and rejoice in their accomplishments with us as we also wish them well in their new endeavors. The cumulative result of that change was to take the Foundation’s staff from eight to three.

Of course, another change was imminent as we began to fill these

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positions. I was pleased and proud to promote Staci Maine, former Manager, Donor Records to the Executive Assistant position.

Staci has been on the Foundation staff for 10 years and did an outstanding job in her previous position. She has taken to her new position very easily and continues to do outstanding work.

In early December, we welcomed Becky Cason to the position of Receptionist/Office Assistant.

Becky came to us from the Downtown Dayton Partnership and brought a number of valuable skills with her. Some of you have already encountered her cheerful, helpful voice on our phones. We’re glad to have her on our team.

At press time, we have just hired Cheri Robbins to fill the Manager, Donor Records position.

Cheri comes to us directly from Antioch University and has 10 years experience in donor records management and development at other organizations. She’s also familiar with the fraternity from her experience as a young lady in Rainbow. She will be a valuable addition to our staff; we look forward to her arrival. We will continue to seek well-qualified candidates for the remaining positions on our team.

While change is one of the few things that is constant in our lives and one which people typically fear and/or don’t do well with, change brings with it a positive opportunity for growth and rebirth. Our organizations in Springfield have had the opportunity to promote 12 staff members to supervisory

or managerial positions. We’ve significantly reduced our cost of operation as well as the average age of our workforce.

We’ve already held a meeting of Leadership 50 – the top 50 management staff in the entire Ohio Masonic Home organization, sharing our vision for the future with them and updating them on several of the new programs we are in the process of implementing.

Among those programs is an employee giving program through payroll deduction which will enable our staff to provide financial support to our organizations.

Another provides a new way of learning – an opportunity to meet an on-going educational requirement via technology. Yet another enables our staff to have more control of the way in which they use the time off they earn as they work.

Our season of change, which began somewhat sadly and regretfully with the departure of many good friends and colleagues, has blossomed into new opportunity, bright with the hope for personal and corporate growth, the success of new teams throughout the organization and the promise of renewed commitment to providing only the best of care, concern and compassion for all our residents and clients.

For more information about how to make a gift, contact the Foundation toll free at 888/248-2664 or write to us at: Five Masonic Drive, Springfield, 45504-3658. Visit us at our new web site: www.omhbef.org.

Freemasonry – It’s All In The Family At Bridgeport Lodge #181 Michael A. Coey, the new Worshipful Master of Bridgeport Lodge #181, is pictured with his father Michael C. Coey, Past Master of Bridgeport and a current District Deputy Grand Master of the 23rd Masonic District.

Thank You For Your Generosity We offer our grateful appreciation to the estates, individuals, groups or other Masonic bodies who have supported The Ohio Masonic Home with gifts given between December 1, 2009 and January 31, 2010. $10,000 + Brister, Charles E. Davis, Robert J. Grand Lodge of Ohio, F&AM Mercer, John L. Parsons, Marion Rammelsberg, Merle Reisinger, LeRoy Sturdivant, Webster $5,000 - $9,999 Bannerman, Wm. David & Anita Kelly, William H. Moss, George K. Seifert, Dorothy T. & Myron T. Sterrett, Kenneth R. Valley of Dayton, AASR $2,500 - $4,999 Armstrong, Eugene A. Magnuson, Theodore R. Schulze, Vivian H. Sheeler, Howard M. Waddell, Harry D. $1,000 - $2,499 Alpha Lodge #729, F&AM Arters, George D. & B.J. Bodle, William P. & JoAnn D. Cone, Grace Davis, Orlando W. Fouch, Edward L. & Carol Galion Lodge #414, F&AM Gooding, Ralph J. Grand Council of Ohio, R&SM Hosler, Bessie V. Houtz, A. G. & Patricia S. John W. Barkley Lodge #621, F&AM Logston, Tommy A. & Marlene Niles-McKinley Lodge #794, F&AM North Bend Lodge #346, F&AM Primm, John R. & Joan F. Sunrise Lodge #783, F&AM The Della Selsor Trust York, Lowell T. $500 - $999 Amelia Lodge #590, F&AM Arabic Club Foundation Brillhart, Wilbur A. Bruce, Richard N. Clime, John R. & Mary Community Lodge #684, F&AM Coventry-Akron Lodge #83, F&AM Golden Gate Lodge #245, F&AM Harmar Lodge #390, F&AM Hartzell, Clarence L., III & Charlene Kelly, Floyd

Losasso, Donald L. & Theda Morning Dawn Lodge #7, F&AM Mowry, David Dee & Kathy Puskarich, Michael T. & Judy Ray, Dale G., Jr. & Jacqueline C. Sackett, Floris A. Shrive, Harold George Williams, Frank R. Williams, Gary B., M.D. & Pamela S. Zimmerman, Kermit V. & Susan $100 - $499 Amity Lodge #5, F&AM Anonymous Anthony Lodge #455, F&AM Applebee, William L. Arnold, Dan C. & Patricia Baker, Dale L. & Pauline Baltimore Lodge #475, F&AM Bass, Robert L. Benjamin Franklin Lodge #719, F&AM Black, Ross R., II & Linda Bloomingburg Lodge #449, F&AM Buckeye Lodge #150, F&AM Buturain, Rita C. Byas, David W. Carey Lodge #420, F&AM Carroll F. Clapp Lodge #655, F&AM Cole, Charles E. & Vera B. Constitution Lodge #426, F&AM Cora Club Davis, Paul Herbert & Phyllis E. DeVassie, Terry L. Deyo, Jim S. & Margie Dill, Wayne S. & Kay L. Dircks, Lehr Louis, Jr. & Mary Duncan, Toni & Steven A. E.T. Carson Lodge #598, F&AM Emery Lodge #258, F&AM Galion Chapter #142, RAM Germantown Lodge #257, F&AM Goshen Lodge #119, F&AM Grahek, Thomas Eugene Hingst, Carl & Marilyn Holcomb, J. Robert & Antoinette Holcombe, Richard M. & Carmel Jenkins, Daniel C., Jr. John W. Durst Lodge #716, F&AM Johnson, Owen E., M.D. & Joyce Karth, Charles E. & Marjorie J. Kreigh, Robert Lima Lodge #205, F&AM Lucas County Memorial Lodge Mantua Lodge #533, F&AM Marsenburg, Kenneth C. & Cora

Matamoras Lodge #374, F&AM McGowan, Arno R. McMillan Lodge #141, F&AM McMillen, Robert C. & Betty McNutt, Robert E. & Jean Miller, Robert E. Minton, Allen W. Mt. Sterling Lodge #269, F&AM Muskingum Lodge #368, F&AM Myers, Robert L. Negley Lodge #565, F&AM Nicholson, Gary, M.D. & Shirley Ohio Consistory, S.P.R.S., Valley of Cincinnati Oxford Lodge #67, F&AM Parkside Lodge #736, F&AM Phillips, Jonathan Price, David A. & Susan J. Priest, Howard E. & Diann B. Purmort, John S. Quaker City Lodge #500, F&AM Rannebarger, Jeff L. Reynolds & Reynolds Employee Foundation Rhoades, Harold B. Robinson, Robert T. Salmond, James R. & Judith L. Shank, Harold & Josephine Sherwood Lodge #620, F&AM Siberell, Lloyd E., Jr. & Nelva L. Smithfield Lodge #182, F&AM Stafford Lodge #300, F&AM Stokes Lodge #305, F&AM Strauss, Philip Strawn, Timothy B. & Lois K. Sulgrave Lodge #696, F&AM The Progressive Insurance Foundation Thomas, Paul A. & Janice C. Turner, James Walter, Jr. Twin Valley Chapter #240, RAM Van Hoozen, Barry & Hallie Vaughn, Glen, M.D. Verbsky, Arriton L. Victory Lodge #649, F&AM Waltz, Jeffrey P. Ward, Kim A. Warren, Richard D. Weaner, David J. Wellington Lodge #127, F&AM Westfall, Gary Wigger, John W. William Farr Lodge #672, F&AM Williamson, Gregory A. & Deborah A. Wolf, Beulah Wolfe, Carl E. Young, Todd D. March/April 2010

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

2655 W. National Road Springfield, Ohio 45504-3698 www.ohiomasonichome.org www.freemason.com

A Generational Responsibility To Help James (Jim) Gee III

James (Jim) Gee III has several

reasons for serving on the Browning Masonic Community Board of Trustees – he is a Mason; he is interested in the care of senior citizens; and he is resident of Waterville, where Browning is located.

He is proud of all these things and dedicated to working with the board, which he’s served on since 2003.

Jim is the General Manager of the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority. He finds it rewarding to help people in their daily lives and he brings this attitude to the Browning Board.

“A substantial number of our passenger base is senior citizens and people with disabilities,” said Jim. “Transportation is a very

important necessity in their lives.

I have been active on several other boards, mostly non-profits, which focus on issues for seniors and I feel very strongly that my generation has a responsibility to help older residents in our community.”

It’s an important time for Browning Masonic Community, which is examining ideas for future plans. Jim said he’s excited to be a part of it.

Part of the appeal for future growth is it will benefit not just Browning and its residents, but also the Waterville community.

Jim said he believes the combination of growth and development at Browning will lead to it being the senior residence of choice for

the entire region.

“We are very fortunate to have a James (Jim) Gee III great staff, from our president, Dave Subleski, down through all the layers of the organization, which has enabled us to keep our census numbers up and provide excellent care to our residents.”

Jim is a member of Barton Smith Lodge #613 in Toledo, where he was Worshipful Master in 2005, and also a member of Ft. Meigs Lodge #79. He was inspired to become a Mason by his grandfather, a 50-year member.

Jim is married to Kathy and has two sons, James (age 12) and Danny (age 5).

SAVE THE DATE! Sunday, June 6th

Ohio Masonic Home Day at Springfield Masonic Community