VOLUME 18, ISSUE 2
SPRING 2011
BEACON New A JOINT PUBLICATION OF THE GRAND LODGE OF OHIO AND THE OHIO MASONIC HOME
The Ohio Masonic Home Names CEO T
he Board of Trustees of The Ohio Masonic Home has named Thomas J. Stofac as the Chief Executive Officer of The Ohio Masonic Home effective April 4, 2011. Stofac has thirty years of experience in the long-term care industry. Prior to joining the Home, he was the President of Stofac Consulting, LLC; and served as President and CEO of Lutheran Social Services of Central Ohio. In addition to Ohio, he has served the senior care industry in Minnesota, Massachusetts and North Dakota. As the top executive for the Home, Stofac will be responsible for the long-term guidance, direction and success of the organization. “We are pleased to have someone with Tom’s experience join our organization,” said Michael T. Puskarich, Chairman of the Board of Trustees. “His vision as a strategic facilitator and innovative thinker will be instrumental in the future as we continue to meet the needs of seniors across the state of Ohio.” “I am humbled and honored to join an organization that for 120 years has been committed to serving older adults with care, compassion and concern,” said Stofac. “I am committed to positioning The Ohio Masonic
“His vision as a strategic facilitator and innovative thinker will be instrumental in the future as we continue to meet the needs of seniors across the state of Ohio.” Home to meet the challenges of the present and future needs of the long-term care industry, our communities and the fraternity.” Since its incorporation in 1890, The Ohio Masonic Home has provided continuous long-term care to residents of the State of Ohio. The Home serves nearly 750 residents on campuses located in Springfield, Waterville and Medina, Ohio. The organization also provides home and communitybased services in various locations across the state.
Thomas J. Stofac, Chief Executive Officer of The Ohio Masonic Home
In This Issue: World’s Oldest Living Man and Mason Dies...3 Canton Open House a Huge Success ............5 Letter Discloses Lost Record of Civil War Military Lodge ........................ 8-9 Cornerstone and Helping Hands Join Forces....................................................6 Dementia Update .........................................7 Stairlift from Heaven ...................................12 Fun in the Summertime...............................13
Reflections
of a Busy Masonic Year – Part One By Bradford Allen Goebel, Grand Master
I
t is hard to believe that the first six months of this term are now history. We hear in Masonry about how quick the sands of time run through an hour glass, and the first six months of this term have passed even faster than those sands of time. So what are the highlights of the first six months of this term? Certainly one of the greatest pleasures has been spending time with the members of this Grand Jurisdiction. While the first seven years of serving as a Grand Lodge Officer have been nothing short of great, being permitted to fill the office of Grand Master has been exceptional. It has been the highest honor to represent the nearly 107,000 members of the Grand Lodge on every occasion. Shaking hands, sharing lapel pins, and spending time hearing of your concerns and interests has been an experience I will never forget. It continues to be an unforgettable memory to be at the presentation of veteran service awards to our deserving members. Whether it was in Florida, in a tyled Lodge event or at an open awards program, the reading of the certificates and presentations of service lapel pins brings a smile to the faces of our senior Brothers and a great joy to your Grand Master. I wish The 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 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 Thomas J. Hickey, Director of Sales, Marketing and Communications The Ohio Masonic Home 2655 W. National Road Springfield, OH 45504-3698 937/525-3074 thickey@ohiomasonichome.org
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I could be at many more of these special events. Another highlight comes in the comradeship of traveling and being with our sister jurisdictions. The opportunity to represent the Grand Lodge of Ohio as the General Chairman at the Conference of Grand Masters in Denver, Colorado in February was an event I will always remember. Attending the Grand Lodge sessions in Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Washington D.C., Massachusetts and New York brought the opportunity to share our Ohio successes and hear the successes of our sister jurisdictions. Having completed the majority of the Grand Master’s receptions across our state, has brought about the opportunity to reacquaint ourselves with familiar friends and meet and make new acquaintances. The receptions have been wonderful. Each reception is different and unique. Perhaps it is in the food, or in the venue. Perhaps it is in the entertainment or the special guests. Honoring your District Community Service recipients has been a true pleasure. They each bring many talents and dedication to their efforts and special projects. There remains no doubt as to why these individuals are selected and honored. Knowing that the future leaders are in the youth of today, it has been a joy to hear of the biographical backgrounds of those recognized for our “EXCELLENCE IN YOUTH” awards. How these young people find the time to be involved in so many activities, maintain high academic standards, and do all that they do is a tribute to their goals and ambitions. Hearing of the success of our “Random Acts of Kindness” promotion is indicative of how well received and supported it has become by Ohio Masons, our Ladies and
our friends. Bringing a smile to the faces of Bradford Allen Goebel, others for performing a Grand Master “Random Act” is second only to the smiles on our own faces as we perform the acts for others. It is a truly a good feeling that projects not only a favorable reflection of oneself, but also a favorable image of Freemasonry. Keep up your good efforts on this program, and help expand this positive image. So, can the next six months be as exciting? I believe in a slightly different way, each month will continue to be special. There are still many opportunities to represent the Grand Lodge of Ohio and the office of Grand Master. Please keep your plans open to join in the upcoming events: • Ohio Masonic Home Day (June 12, 2011) at the Springfield Masonic Community • Ohio Special Olympics opening ceremony (June 24, 2011) at the Ohio State Football Stadium • The Pennsylvania-Ohio Brotherhood Unity Program in Youngstown (September 21, 2011) • Annual Grand Communication in Cleveland (October 14, 2011) Events and good ritual has become commonplace in many Lodges, with new members knocking on our doors. Take time to enjoy Masonry and spend time with your Brothers, helping to make yourself and those around you better individuals. I look forward to continuing my travels and spending time with the greatest asset of the Grand Lodge of Ohio – you, my Brothers. Please take time to share the excitement of this Masonic year and celebrate “Freemasonry…Faith, Family, Brotherhood and Charity.”
Greetings
From New CEO
By Thomas J. Stofac, Chief Executive Officer of The Ohio Masonic Home
G
reetings to you all and let me tell you how honored I am to be the CEO of this great organization. I am humbled that the board of trustees has entrusted me with the leadership role in carrying out the mission of The Ohio Masonic Home. Be assured that I take that responsibility seriously. I will lead with a respect for the traditions and history, a commitment to our current services and an unwavering dedication to create and implement a vision for the future. We live in a very changing time and uncertain environment
right now, and I want both today and in you to be assured that the future. we at The Ohio Masonic I am delighted to be Home are here to be here and look forward your trusted resource in to serving you for years aging services. to come. I want to Our commitment to thank you all who have our core values of Care, supported this fine Compassion and Concern organization in the past should be evident and through service and Thomas J. Stofac, CEO at the forefront of commitment of everything we do. We are resources. I look forward to our committed to you as our partnership in our growth and the constituency and stakeholders to be process of creating a “New Day” at your partner in “respectful aging” The Ohio Masonic Home. for you or your family members
World’s Oldest Living Man and Mason Dies Brother Walter Breuning, age 114, died of natural causes on April 14. He was the oldest living man in the world and additionally the oldest living Master Mason and Scottish Rite Mason. He was a member of Cascade Lodge #34 in Great Falls, Montana and has been a Mason for 85 years. He has been a Scottish Rite Mason for 74 years and was a 33º Mason under the Supreme Council of the Southern Masonic Jurisdiction. Brother Breuning credited his long life to eating two meals a day and working as long as he could. At his September 21, 2010 birthday party, he said “with all the hatred in this good world, let us be kind to one another.” Well done, good and faithful servant!
THE OHIO MASONIC HOME
Officers Elected for 2011 At the Annual Meeting of the Board of Trustees of The Ohio Masonic Home held February 28th, the following officers were elected for the 2011 year: Chairman: Right Worshipful Brother Michael T. Puskarich, 33° 1st Vice Chairman: Most Excellent Companion Donald L. Losasso, KYGCH 2nd Vice Chairman: Right Worshipful Brother Ronald L. Connelly, 33° Treasurer: Worshipful Brother Edward L. Fouch Secretary: Most Excellent Companion Kermit V. Zimmerman, KYGCH, 33°
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New
I-CARE Adds Coordinator, Being the family care-giver has
“
always been central in my life,” said Melissa Hirn-Pulliam, I-CARE’s newest Service Coordinator for South Central Ohio. I-CARE, which stands for Independence through Coordination, Assistance, Referral and Education, is a subsidiary of the Home’s Masonic Senior Services, serving senior Masons, their wives and widows and Eastern Star members who want to remain independent in their own homes. Melissa is looking forward to helping senior members of the Masonic family navigate the maze of social service programs. “This region of the state has always been special to me,” said Melissa. “With the exception of obtaining my degree at the University of
Committees
Cincinnati, I have always lived in from the 14th District, Mt. Zion South Central Ohio. In fact I am Lodge #9 from the 19th District the fifth generation to and Ionic Lodge #438 raise my children in the from the 23rd District. family homestead in More than 50 lodges Bainbridge.” have been trained over In addition to the past five years. As a her background in point of trivia, College serving people of Hill Lodge #641 from Appalachian heritage the 1st District was the of her community, she first lodge to be trained. is familiar with the Melissa Hirn-Pulliam Today nearly 150 people Masonic fraternity, as her father and are assisted each month both her grandfathers were Masons. by the 51 committees. Committee South Central Ohio provides members average over 325 coverage for districts 7, 12 and 13. volunteer hours per month in You can contact Melissa via email at assisting those in need. mhpulliam@mssohio.org or toll free For more information on the I-CARE at 888/884-8096. program or how your Lodge can form The I-CARE program would a committee check out the I-CARE like to welcome the newest lodge website at www.mssohio.org or contact committees: Magnolia Lodge #20 the Service Coordinator in your area.
Magnolia Lodge #20/Committee #50 L-R: David L. Roach, Roscoe R. Smith, (Worshipful Master) and Leonard L Waugh.
Ionic Lodge #438/Bellaire, Ohio L-R: Roger Wallace Jr., Russell Beveridge, DeAnna Kinney (Service Coordinator), Troy Amie (Committee Chairman) and Paul Strope.
Mt. Zion Lodge #9/Committee #51 Front Row L-R: Arthur Crim, John Owens, Galen Neibarger, John Dangelo (Worshipful Master), James Dice and Robert Atwell; Row 2 L-R: Jay Sheldon, John Zale, Paul Phillips, John Lambert, Jerry Robinson, Donald Weaver and Gary Sweeney. Not pictured: Robert Ronk.
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Success!
Canton Open House a Huge On Sunday, March 20, the Canton Preservation Society and the Masons of Canton hosted an open house at the Masonic Temple located on North Market Avenue. The hours were from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., and more than 600 local residents toured the building. The Canton Masonic Temple was completed in 1926 and is one of the most prominent buildings in Canton. However, few Canton residents have ever had an opportunity to tour the building, which houses symbolic lodges, York Rite and Scottish Rite organizations, and the Dyslexic Center for Children. The public was given full access to all eight stories of the building, which provided them an opportunity to see all the great Grecian style architecture in the building and the numerous behind the scenes spaces. “Wow. It was a unique opportunity to take a no holds
barred tour of the Canton Masonic Temple,” said Lincoln Highway blogger Jamie Ralston. The Canton Preservation Society is a non-profit organization that has been a part of the community since 1978 and whose mission is to encourage the preservation
and restoration of structures and neighborhoods in Canton. “The Masonic Temple is a great example of our colorful history and what happens when we respect the past in order to improve the future,” explained Marilyn Risaliti of the society.
First Lady of Ohio Freemasonry Asks Lodges to BeFriend an OMH Resident Kathy Goebel, wife of Grand Master Bradford A. Goebel, would like all Ohio Lodges to BeFriend (adopt) a resident at one of the three Ohio Masonic Home (OMH) campuses.
Grand Master Brad Goebel and First Lady Kathy Goebel
Participating Lodges would send cards to the resident for their birthday, holidays, or “just because.” Members of the Lodge would also make arrangements to visit the resident periodically. The Lodge’s newsletter and other communications for members might also be shared with its resident.
“Our residents have left not only their homes but also their lifelong communities, and often their families live too far away to visit regularly,” explains Mrs. Goebel. “We need to show these residents that they have Masonic Brothers who care about them.” Lodges that wish to participate in this worthwhile program should contact RWB Tim Strawn at the OMH Benevolent Endowment Foundation, 888/248-2664, for more details.
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Cornerstone Home Health and Hospice and Masonic Helping Hands
JoinForces
Masonic Helping Hands and Cornerstone Home Health and Hospice are now both under the leadership of Mary Lough-Pencil, President of Cornerstone Home Health and Hospice.
community-based services are one of those ways. “The growth of Cornerstone over the past two years has been exceptional. Coupled with the strength of Helping Hands we have a service that will position us well into the future,” said Mary. Currently Cornerstone has two offices, one in Urbana that serves Champaign, Clark and Logan counties and its newest office in Boardman serving Mahoning and Trumbull Counties. Helping Hands
also has two offices, one in Fairborn serving the Springfield/Dayton area and one in Maumee serving the Greater Toledo region. To learn more about Cornerstone, check out the website at www.cornerstonehealthcare.org and to learn about Helping Hands check out the website at www.masonichelpinghands.org.
Mary Lough-Pencil, President of Cornerstone Home Health and Hospice
Mary is proud of both staffs. She said, “By working closely together our organizations will be able to provide skilled care along with home chore services to individuals in their home. This is an opportunity for clients to receive great care from one fine organization.” With the state of Ohio facing a challenging budget cycle, new ways to help seniors stay in their homes are being explored and home and
Ohio Masonic Research Takes Another Step Forward Ohio Freemasonry is fortunate to have several organizations dedicated to Masonic research, including a Lodge, Chapter, and Council of Research. Not to be outdone, Ohio’s Masonic Knights Templar are currently working to form an Asylum of Research under the Grand Commandery of Ohio.
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The proposed Asylum of Research will meet four times a year with a progressive officer line similar to a regular Commandery of Masonic Knights Templar. The meetings will be held around the state and hosted by a local Commandery. The meetings will serve as an opportunity to share papers and presentations, as well
as discuss various aspects of Templar history. Anyone interested in learning more about this latest Masonic research organization should contact Joseph Durham at joseph_durham@frontier.com or 513/309-3332.
Update
on Alzheimer’s: The Sixth Leading Cause of Death
Alzheimer’s is a cruel disease,
One surprising new study plaque buildup in brain scans of reported in the journal Age and Alzheimer’s patients. Current stealing the victim’s memories Ageing showed that people over medications are most effective in and eventually leaving them the early stages of Alzheimer’s, and 75 who drank two to three alcoholic incapable of caring for themselves. beverages a day decreased their this chemical The number risk of dementia by as much as may lead to of people earlier diagnosis 60% compared to non-drinkers. facing those in people of the disease. The research manager cautioned prospects over 65 will be affected that this study isn’t “a green light to Because so is growing. hit the bottle. Overindulging little is known Alzheimer’s by Alzheimer’s in alcohol on a daily basis is about how is the sixth unhealthy at any age.” the disease leading cause Organizations continue to is contracted, there’s no sound of death, and the only one of the develop innovative approaches medical advice on how to avoid top six that continues to increase. to housing, treating and caring it. Medical professionals have One in 10 people over 65 will be for disease victims. affected by Alzheimer’s, more than Programs like double the number in 1980. Alzheimer’s will cost Rhythm of the Day© The disease takes an incredible by miVision, Aroma emotional toll on caregivers, as the United States Therapy Protocols© well as imposing a huge financial (Linda McNeal-White) burden. Alzheimer’s will cost the over and others help reduce United States $20 trillion over the wandering, agitation next 40 years. Considering the the next and sleeplessness. These emotional and economic impact, are just some of the it’s not surprising that the disease programs successfully is being aggressively attacked on long promoted a healthy diet and being used today at the Springfield many fronts. active lifestyle as ways to ward off Masonic Community. They will On January 4 of this year, the dementia, but an independent panel also be part of the complete care National Alzheimer’s Project Act convened by the National Institutes program being developed for the was signed into law after passing of Health found insufficient evidence two new 24-bed dementia units unanimously in both the Senate that these measures are actually being planned at the Western and House of Representatives. The effective. However, the well-known Reserve (Medina) and Browning Act will create a national strategic (Toledo) Masonic Communities. plan to address These units will further extend and overcome the The well-known the range of living options for rapidly escalating community residents, allowing them Alzheimer’s crisis. “Nun Study” shows that to remain with friends and among A cure is nowhere learning something new familiar surroundings. The facilities on the horizon, but every day does slow the will take a holistic approach to care doctors and scientists and service, with residents residing are uncovering disease’s progress. in a home-style environment. valuable clues about Until more effective treatments how the disease or a cure can be found, the works. The U.S. new dementia units will offer Food and Drug Administration “Nun Study” shows that learning advanced care in comfortable – and is considering approval of a new something new every day does slow comforting – surroundings. chemical that highlights the telltale the disease’s progress.
One 10
$20 trillion 40 years
SPRING 2011
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News from the
Lodges
Carey Lodge #420 Supports Food Pantry The Brothers of Carey Lodge #420 held another successful food drive in support of the Carey Food Pantry. The need to fight hunger in Ohio has never been greater, and the Brothers had a great time collecting food and money donations. Frederick’s IGA hosted the event.
Murphy installed President of Midwest Conference on Masonic Education Charles R. Murphy, Past Grand Master of Ohio, was elected and installed President of the Midwest Conference on Masonic Education at their annual April meeting.
All Freemasons are invited and encouraged to attend and actively participate in all facets of the conference and its discussions.
This conference is the premier conference on Masonic Education in North America, and encompasses thirteen Masonic jurisdictions in the United States and Canada. The conference meets annually to discuss issues of Masonic education, and works on issues of candidate counseling, member education and the public perception of Freemasonry.
As President, Murphy has Charles Murphy – President; Constantine Uson, announced that the 63rd Deputy Grand Master Manitoba – 1st Vice Annual Conference will be President; Craig Davis, Grand Master Iowa – held in Toledo, Ohio on 2nd Vice President April 27, 28 and 29, 2012. He asks that Ohio Masons mark different jurisdictions annually, and their calendars for those dates, and the next time it will be eligible to be make plans to attend all or part of the back in the Jurisdiction of Ohio will conference. The conference rotates to be in the year 2025.
Pictured after the Installation, left to right are:
Worshipful Master of Allen Lodge #276 Has Unusual Service Record
Steward and working his way through the officer chairs for a second time.
Gary L. Wilms was installed as Worshipful Master of Allen Lodge for a second time on November 6, 2010. A Past Master serving a second term is not unusual. However, Wilms
After being installed as Master, he proceeded to install the rest of the officers, from memory, as a special sign of his appreciation for the Lodge.
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first served Allen Lodge as Worshipful Master is 1968 at the age of twenty-seven. In 2004, he decided to serve the lodge again, starting as Junior
Grand Master Goebel Presides at Conference of Grand Masters Grand Master Bradford A. Goebel was given the honor of being Chairman of the Conference of Grand Masters, which met in Denver, CO, in February.
and also during the conference are held meetings of several related national organizations.
In this prestigious position, he presided during all business meetings and social events. Most Worshipful Brother Goebel was also influential in the planning process for the educational programs and Masonic topics discussed at the conference. The Conference of Grand Masters is an annual meeting of the Grand Masters and top officers of all the Grand Lodges in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with representatives also coming from Europe, South America, and Australia. A separate Conference of Grand Secretaries meets at the same time,
The delegation from Ohio attending the conference also included Kevin B. Todd, Deputy Grand Master; James F. Easterling, Jr., Senior Grand Warden; Norman J. Mick, Junior Grand Warden; C. Michael Watson, PGM, Grand Secretary; Thomas H. Galyen, PGM, member of the board of the Masonic Service Association; George O. Braatz, PGM, member of the board of the George Grand Master Bradford A. Goebel Washington Masonic Memorial Association; and Ronald L. Winnett, of the Grand Encampment, Knights PGM, member of the board of Templar; and Jim S. Deyo, PGM, Masonic Model. Grand Lieutenant Commander of Also in attendance from Ohio were the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, William H. Koon, II, Grand Master Scottish Rite.
Cancer Survivors to Support Brother Masons Brother Ron Murphy of Harrison Lodge #219 is a prostate cancer survivor on a mission to help support his fellow Masons suffering from cancer. He is working to create a support network of Masonic cancer survivors who are willing to share some brotherly love and an
attentive ear with others who are newly diagnosed. “My dad is a cancer survivor, and because of his experience, he was my “big brother” through my own battle with cancer,” explained Murphy. “His support helped me get through the bad times. However, he didn’t
have someone that he could ask questions or share his concerns, which is why I’m doing this.” Any Mason who is a cancer survivor and would like to know more can contact Ron Murphy at murphyrm@cox.net or 216/702-6785.
Toledo Fort Industry Lodge #144 Dedicates Chair to Deceased Brethren At Toledo Fort Industry Lodge’s Sweethearts Dinner and Awards Night, a chair was dedicated to the memory of all Masons who have passed away.
The chair is permanently draped with a white lambskin apron placed on the chair in the manner often used by Masons to reserve a seat in Lodge.
A memorial plaque was attached to the back of the chair that reads: This chair is dedicated to the memory of our Masonic Brothers who have passed on to the Celestial Lodge above, the house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. February 14, 2011 Toledo Fort Industry Lodge, #144 SPRING 2011
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Heaven
A Stairlift from M
any served in whatever way they could during World War II. Phyllis Sheets took an active role, proudly serving as a member of the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) and becoming one of the first women, aside from nurses, to wear a military uniform. In her later years, Phyllis required a stairlift in her home. Although she left us last fall at the age of 87, even in death she continues to be of service to others. Her daughter Shelia and son-in-law Donald Clark, from Madison Lodge #221, saw an opportunity to help another Masonic member. Shelia contacted I-CARE coordinators Diane Shober and Mary Jane Bates who quickly identified a possible recipient. The man, a member of West Gate Lodge #623, hoped to return home from the healthcare facility where he was being treated. That would be possible only with the help of a stairlift. Members from his lodge’s committee, Mike Martin and Phil Miller, removed the lift from Phyllis’ home and awaited
word to install it. Sadly, the planned recipient never regained sufficient strength to return home. Mary Jane reached out to find someone else able to use the lift.
The chairlift is a perfect fit for Wayne Monnette and enables him to get up and down the stairs.
Cincinnati I-CARE coordinator Shelley Fricke identified the Monnettes, a couple in their 60s. Wayne, member from Batavia
Lodge #104, had poor balance due to back injuries and partial foot paralysis. His wife Sheila required continuous oxygen due to breathing problems. Getting up and down stairs in their bi-level home had been a challenge for both of them. Shelley coordinated with committee members of Batavia Lodge to travel to the West Gate Lodge, retrieve the lift and install it in the Monnettes’ home, where Wayne described it as a “perfect fit.” Shelia Clark felt that “God knew where the lift was needed ... and it is there now.” Shelia is certain that her mother would be very proud that the stairlift that once helped her live independently is now providing that same benefit to Wayne and Sheila. Many people fondly remember Phyllis for the service she provided in life. Now, although they never had the chance to meet or know Phyllis, the Monnettes also feel gratitude to her each time they use the stairlift and each day they are able to remain in their home.
Bicycle Ambassador Rides Again for Special Olympics Brother Jim “Spud” Sasak of Lakeshore Lodge #307 will bicycle to twenty of Ohio’s county seats to promote awareness of Ohio Special Olympics. His first stop will be in Tiffin on June 1 and his final stop will be at the Opening Ceremonies of the Summer Games in Columbus on June 24. In 2008, Brother Sasak made a pledge that he would bicycle to all 88 Ohio county seats to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics. In 2009, during a 1,102 mile ride Spudd visited thirty-seven counties around Ohio’s perimeter, and last
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year, his 802 mile adventure took him to 31 more county seats. This year’s ride will mark the culmination of his promise. The Opening Ceremonies of the Ohio Special Olympic Summer Games will be held in the OSU football stadium on June 24. Masons who wish to participate in the Parade of Athletes should arrive at the stadium not later than 5:30 p.m. Dress is white shirt and dark slacks. For details about Brother Sasak’s ride visit www.freemason.com.
Brother Jim “Spud” Sasak visits with a Special Olympian.
Summertime
Having Fun in the O
hio is home to many entertaining summer events, including the Duct Tape Festival (Avon), the Bratwurst Festival (Bucyrus) and Twins Day (Twinsburg, of course!). The Ohio Masonic Home’s communities offer a variety of events year-round for residents, family and community members. The major summer events are Home Day at the Springfield Community on Sunday, June 12, beginning at 10 a.m. and the Classic Car Show at the Browning Community on Saturday, July 23, from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. Home Day at Springfield is filled with a variety of activities that begin following the 10 a.m.
worship services. Visitors are welcome to stroll under the big-top tent and enjoy craft booths and refreshment stands operated by Masonic-affiliated organizations. An interesting array of entertainment is also available, both under the tent and around the campus. Guests will be inspired by the sea of red, white and blue created by the Ohio Flags of Honor display, created to honor Ohio’s armed forces members killed in action in Iraq and Afghanistan. Children can look forward to the games, prizes and delicious snacks found at the Kids Corner, and kids of all ages will enjoy the Shrine Parade. Before leaving, most visitors enjoy a serving of the community’s famous strawberry shortcake. At the Browning Masonic
Community’s ninth Annual Classic Car Show, guests can marvel at vintage vehicles like the 1926 Hupmobile and 1928 fire engine-red Chevrolet flatbed truck. Gear heads will be more impressed by muscle cars like the bright-purple 1971 Plymouth Barracuda 472 HEMI. The more environmentally conscious visitors may be intrigued by the Cadillac Provoq that runs on electricity or natural gas. We are anticipating close to 400 automobiles parked
around the lush lawns of the beautiful Browning campus. The cars are the main attraction, but this family-friendly event includes many more activities. There are inflatables and other entertainment and games for the kids. Outdoors there are a variety of vendors offering food, crafts and other interesting items for sale. Shoppers can also venture indoors to search for bargains at the white elephant sale. Guests also come for the delicious chicken dinners. The moist towlettes provided come in handy to clean up after the juicy chicken and hot, buttery sweet corn. Adrienne Haase, a 21-year-old college student and Scottish Rite Scholarship recipient, has attended the show several times over the years. She enjoyed it so much that she was inspired to write an article about it. Most guests at these summer events may not be moved to write about their experience, but they are assured of an enjoyable day of fun in the summertime.
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Thanks
FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE
MWB Posey and Cheryl!
By Right Worshipful Brother Timothy B. Strawn, CAE, President, The OMH Benevolent Endowment Foundation
As many if not most Beacon readers know, our Jr. Past Grand Master, MWB Terry Posey and his lady, Cheryl, made Pathways Center for Alzheimer’s Care on the Springfield Masonic Community (SMC) campus their charity during the 2009-2010 year. Gifts totaling $33,973.70 were given to support the program which will provide pet therapy, motion therapy and digging/planting therapy for our residents there. The Poseys honored Pathways in this manner because MWB Posey’s mother was one of our first Pathways’ residents and they were so pleased and impressed with the care she received and the concern and compassion staff demonstrated for all the residents there. What many Beacon readers don’t know is that MWB Posey and Cheryl designated proceeds from several other projects last year to also benefit the Home. The Vietnam and Korean War Memorials project provided not only two handsome new monuments to the heroes of those wars but also a beautiful, new
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landscaping* of the entire area in which those memorials and older ones to “Home kids” (former child residents of the Home) who gave their lives for our country in World Wars I and II are situated on the Springfield campus. Additionally, proceeds of the Grand Master’s coin project in excess of the cost of the memorials were provided to Springfield Masonic Community to fund the landscaping and maintenance of the monument area. Those proceeds totaled $36,742.18. (*The landscaping is now complete and nicely compliments the memorials. Stop and see it on your next visit to SMC!) Proceeds from the sale of the special Longaberger basket created for last year were shared equally between the Home’s Foundation and the Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation. That gift provided $2,130 to the Foundation. Finally, in preparation for the year, Cheryl sought recipes from ladies of the Second District to prepare a cookbook, Summertime Favorites. She designed, edited and produced the cookbook herself and made it available to the Home’s Foundation to sell. Because the project was self-funded by Cheryl, sales proceeds were 100% “net gifts”. This project raised $759. (Note: A few cookbooks remain available through the Foundation for $12 each.) Thus, through all four projects’ gifts to the
Home, MWB Posey and Cheryl provided a total of $76,493.88 to the Springfield Masonic Community and Foundation last year! This is an outstanding achievement; this is an outstanding gift! On behalf of the staff, residents and Trustees of SMC and the Foundation: THANK YOU!, Most Worshipful Brother Posey and Cheryl. We sincerely appreciate your kind consideration in making us the destination for all these wonderful gifts. They are sincerely appreciated. We are very proud of and thankful for your interest in and continuing support of the Home and all its facilities, services and programs! Most Worshipful Brother Posey’s interest in and support of the Home did not end with the completion of his year as Grand Master. He continues to serve The Home as a member of its and the Springfield Masonic Community’s Boards of Trustees. We are very appreciative of the support our Grand Masters and other Masonic body leaders have provided to the Home through the years. Through gifts of time, talent and treasure they have played a key role in the Home’s growth and the establishment of its recognized high standard of care and concern for all those for whom it cares. To all of them, past, present and future, we say “Thank You!” 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.
Generosity
Thank You For Your
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, 2010 and February 28, 2011. $10,000 + Brister, Charles E. Colburn, Frank R. Dunkle, Paul M. Grand Lodge of Ohio, F&AM Storrs, Philip Sturdivant, Webster $5,000 - $9,999 Geddes, George R., Jr. Kelly, William H. Moss, George K. Perry, Homer Schulze, Vivian H. Sheeler, Howard M. Spires, Garrell C. & Kay Sterrett, Kenneth R. Valley of Cleveland, AASR Williams, Sherry L. $2,500 - $4,999 Davis, Orlando W. Oberle, Betty H. Seifert, Dorothy T. & Myron T. Waddell, Harry D. $1,000 - $2,499 2010 Longaberger Masonic Basket Arters, George D. & B.J. Blendon Lodge #339, F&AM Cone, Grace De Vore, Robert Fouch, Edward L. & Carol Gasmire, Kenneth W. Gooding, Ralph J. Grand Council of Ohio, R&SM Greenville Lodge #143, F&AM Guess, Jerral F. & Louise A. Hosler, Bessie V. John W. Barkley Lodge #621, F&AM Logston, Tommy A. & Marlene Old Erie Lodge #3, F&AM Stahlman, George Sunrise Lodge #783, F&AM Sypolt, Charles H. Third Protestant Memorial Church Endowment Fund Williams, Gary B., M.D. & Pamela S. Williams, J. Michael $500 - $999 7th Masonic District Association 13th Masonic District Association Belpre Lodge #609, F&AM Clime, John R. & Mary Connelly, Ronald L. & Elaine M. Coventry-Akron Lodge #83, F&AM DeVassie, Terry L. Duncan, Toni & Steven A. Genoa Lodge #433, F&AM Jefferson Lodge #90, F&AM Johnson, Owen E., M.D. & Joyce Karth, Charles E. & Marjorie J.
Kelly, Floyd Laskey, Mary Lou Marsenburg, Kenneth C. & Cora Montgomery Lodge #94, F&AM Newark Lodge #97, F&AM Oliver H. Perry Lodge #341, F&AM Puskarich, Michael T. & Judy Rannebarger, Jeff L. Ray, Dale G., Jr. & Jacqueline C. Sharonville Lodge #204, F&AM Shrive, Harold George Stow Lodge #768, F&AM Temple Lodge #28, F&AM Thorpe, LeSha A. Whitacre, Jo Ann Williams, Frank R. Zimmerman, Kermit V. & Susan $100 - $499 12th Masonic District Association Abel, John F. Alturas Lodge #537, F&AM Applebee, William L. Attwood, Thurman Aurelius Lodge #308, F&AM Avery Lodge #493, F&AM Barth, Donald P. Bloomingburg Lodge #449, F&AM Boggs, Matthew Bolivar Lodge #82, F&AM Bolton, Robert L. & Betty J. Canton Lodge #60, F&AM Charles T. Raymer-Covenant Lodge #683, F&AM Clarksville Lodge #323, F&AM Clifton-Gaston Allen Lodge #664, F&AM Collinwood Lodge #582, F&AM Copper Penny Lodge #778, F&AM Creps, Michael R. Crusader Lodge #720, F&AM Cuyahoga Falls Lodge #735, F&AM Debski, Denise Dircks, Lehr L. E.T. Carson Lodge #598, F&AM Eastern Star Lodge #55, F&AM Emmons, Timothy J. Evans, John E., Sr. Evans, Stanley Allen Felicity Lodge #102, F&AM Fort Black Lodge #413, F&AM Furnas, Rollin A. Gavin, Mark S. Gee, James K., III & Kathleen L. Geese, Clarence D. George A. Holly Lodge #745, F&AM Gist, Ronald Gloss, Michael Leland Grove City Lodge #689, F&AM Harmony Lodge #8, F&AM Hingst, Carl & Marilyn Holcomb, J. Robert & Antoinette Homeworth Lodge #499, F&AM Hugh L. Bates Lodge #686, F&AM
Jeffersonville Lodge #468, F&AM John W. Durst Lodge #716, F&AM Koch, Sarah Kreigh, Robert J. & Jean French Leesburg Lodge #78, F&AM Luther B. Turner Lodge #732, F&AM Markel, Michael W. Masonic Square Residents Council McGowan, Arno R. Meridian Sun Lodge #69, F&AM Miller, William A. Mingo Lodge #171, F&AM Minton, Allen W. Monroe Lodge #189, F&AM Mowry, David Dee & Kathy Mt. Sterling Lodge #269, F&AM Muskingum Lodge #368, F&AM Myers, Robert L. Orion Lodge #353, F&AM Parks, Robert D. & Margie A. Pfeifer, Carl E. & Norma Prather, Donald Benton Price, David A. & Susan J. Purmort, John S. Reeves, Arthur T. & Barbara Reisinger, LeRoy Reynolds & Reynolds Employee Foundation Rhoades, Harold B. Rill, Jennifer Rimes, George Frederick Rubicon Lodge #237, F&AM Salmond, James R. & Judith L. Schau, Eric Seneca Lodge #790, F&AM Shank, Harold & Josephine Sharp, Paul E. Shelby Lodge #350, F&AM Smithfield Lodge #182, F&AM Snyder, Kim E. Solt, Joseph D. Somerset Lodge #76, F&AM Stockman, Karon R. & Lowell Strawn, Timothy B. & Lois K. Sweet, Carleen Triandria Lodge #780, F&AM Ulmer, Donald W. & Alice University Heights Lodge #738, F&AM Valley of Dayton, AASR Van Hoozen, Barry & Hallie Vaughn, Glen, M.D. Verbsky, Arriton L. Victory Lodge #649, F&AM Village Lodge #274, F&AM Waltz, Jeffrey P. Western Hills - Cheviot Lodge #140, F&AM White, John B. Wigger, John W. Wigton, Cathy S. Willman, Joseph M. Wilmington Lodge #52, F&AM Zickefoose, Marshall SPRING 2011
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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
Strength
Bill Stratton Builds When Bill Stratton joined Charity
Lodge #530 in 1974, he recalls telling his wife, Nancy, that he simply wanted to be part of the Masonic organization. As he looks back now over his 37-year history, even Bill seems a bit surprised at just how big a part the organization has played in his life. He recently added yet another role, as he was appointed by Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery, Knights Templar John Clime, as a member of The Ohio Masonic Home board of trustees. Bill is clearly excited about becoming part of the board. “I talked often with Bob McNutt, who just left the board, about how the Ohio Home helps both members and others,” Bill said. “My grandmother and mother both spent time in homes that were nice, but not nearly as nice as what we offer.” Bill said that one of his main goals as a board member will be to ensure that the home continues to provide an outstanding living environment today and into the
future. He is particularly interested in being part of the construction process for the new 24-bed dementia facilities now being planned for both the Browning Masonic Community and Western Reserve Masonic Community campuses. “I have been around construction since I was eight years old,” he recalled. “My father owned a small construction Bill Stratton company that built houses.” Bill apprenticed as a brick mason, and worked with his father for 20 years. He then joined Pennzoil, where he worked for 16 years before returning to construction. Prior to retiring, he worked as a brick mason/foreman for Moser Construction, where he focused mainly on commercial buildings. He hopes to be able to apply some of his construction knowledge to the dementia units.
Legends Golf Outing Dates:
on the Board Bill has been married to his wife, Nancy, for over 48 years. They have two daughters, Tari Renee and Toni Rae, and a grandson, Daniel. The list of Bill’s Masonic activities is both long and impressive. He served as Master of his lodge twice and as a District Deputy Grand Master from 1991-1993. Other highlights include joining the Valley of Canton, AASR in 1979, where he progressed through chairs of Mystic Council, Princes of Jerusalem, and served as Sovereign Prince, 1997-1998. In addition, he is currently serving Ohio Priory #18 Knights of York Cross of Honour as the Eminent Prior. He was coroneted a 33° Mason in 1998. Seven lodges and five Royal Arch chapters have presented him with honorary memberships. Bill realizes that it takes many people with different skills to create a strong, effective board. The bottom line is that everyone on the board has the same goal: “to make The Ohio Masonic Home the best that it can be.”
July 25, 2011 • Western Reserve Masonic Community September 12, 2011 • Springfield Masonic Community
