BEACON July/August 2008
VOLUME 15, ISSUE 4
A JOINT PUBLICATION OF THE GRAND LODGE OF OHIO AND THE OHIO MASONIC HOME
Treasured Masonic Artifacts Headed to Ohio An exposition of some of the
most treasured Masonic artifacts in our country will be featured at the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge in Columbus on October 16-18. Among the key displayed items will be: • The St. John’s (or George Washington Presidential Inaugural) Bible. This is the Bible on which Brother George Washington and several other subsequent Presidents of the United States took their oath of office. It is the property of St. John’s Lodge #1 in New York City. (See story on page 5.) • The George Washington gavel, which our First President used in the Masonic Cornerstone Ceremony for the U.S. Capitol. This is property of Potomac Lodge #5 in the District of Columbia. • The George Washington trowel, which was used by Brother Washington to lay the cornerstone of the U.S. Capitol. It is the property of AlexandriaWashington Lodge #22 in Arlington, Virginia. • Several items will be loaned from the National Heritage Museum of the Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, in Lexington, MA. These include a quilt; a Red Skelton painting; a Master’s Chair originally from Vinton County, Ohio; a Masonic powder horn
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Bible from St. John’s Lodge, New York City, on which Brother George Washington took first oath of office as U.S. President.
and musket, and some M.C. Lilley prints. • A set of 21 Masonic related paintings from Artist Peter Waddell, on loan from the Octagon Museum in Washington, DC. This collection, called, “The Initiated Eye,” has been touring the
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country. Mr. Waddell is the artist commissioned for Ohio’s Bicentennial painting, “From Whence We Came.” A chest, originally owned by our first Grand Master Rufus Putnam, on loan from American Union Lodge #1, Marietta. A set of historic officer jewels from Lodge of Amity #5, Zanesville. Pillars from Paragon Lodge #788 Old furniture. Items from the Grand Lodge Museum.
The display of items will be in the Delaware Ballroom of the Hyatt Regency Hotel during the Grand Lodge session, and, at times, will be open to the public.
Ohioan New DeMolay Grand Master An Ohio Mason has become the Grand Master of DeMolay International. C. Michael Watson, pictured with his wife, Brenda, was installed into his new international position on June 21 in California. Most Worshipful Brother Watson is a Past Grand Master of Masons in Ohio and a Past DeMolay Executive Officer in Ohio. He is only the second DeMolay Grand Master in history from Ohio. The other was Most Worshipful Brother Chester Hodges.
A Great Day to be a Freemason in Ohio By Ronald L. Winnett, Grand Master
WOW, what a great day to be
a Freemason! I, as Grand Master, and on behalf of all the Grand Lodge Officers want to thank the thousands of Masons who came from all over the state on June 21 for the parade and rededication of the cornerstone at the State Capitol. I want to thank all Bodies of the Masonic Family for promoting this day for Freemasonry. It is all of us together that make up “The Wonderful World of Freemasonry!” A special “Thank You” goes to the Sons of the American Revolution, Most Worshipful Brother James Willis and the Prince Hall Masons of Ohio and to the Hudson High School Band for celebrating our 200th Anniversary with us. I would be remiss if I didn’t say a big “Thank You” to the committees who helped put everything together for the parade and picnic. There are far too many to name in this article. However, I must thank Scott McComb, Terry Devassie,
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. 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 George Braatz, P.G.M., Grand Secretary at The Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Ohio P.O. Box 629 Worthington, OH 43085-0629 614/885-5318 gbraatz@freemason.com
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Grand Lodge Officers surround Grand Master, prepared to begin parade on June 21.
and Frank Habeker for their many hours spent planning and preparing for the parade. Thanks also goes to Right Worshipful Brother Steve Cokonougher and Worshipful Brother Larry Mayer and their committee members for the planning and preparations of the food for the picnic. Last but not least, Worshipful Brother Chuck Eichensehr performed a yeoman’s effort making sure that all the details were worked out with the staff of the Ohio Historical Society and the Ohio Village. By the time you read this message, I will have had the pleasure on June 27 at the opening of Special Olympics to present a check, on behalf of all Masons of Ohio, in the amount of $200,000. A job well done! The Grand Lodge Officers will also have dedicated a plaque at the gravesite of Ohio’s First Grand Master, Rufus Putnam, at a special ceremony held on July 4. On July 12 a special dinner was held in honor of the six original lodges in Marietta, where a special presentation was given to each of the lodges.
Upcoming events are Ohio Masonic Home Day which will be held on September 7 at our Springfield campus and the special event for the day will be the burial of the 25 District time capsules. Next will be Lady Linda’s Charity Dinner and Silent Auction to be held on September 13 at the Aladdin Shrine Temple in Columbus, to benefit all three of our Masonic Communities. Our own Brother Howie Damron will be the entertainment for the evening. October then brings us Grand Lodge. This has been a special year for all Masonic bodies. We have proven by working together there is nothing we can not accomplish!
Grand Lodge Officers’ wives pose at parade, in front of beautifully designed float of the Ohio Rainbow Girls.
Your Legacy By Worshipful Brother Wm. David Bannerman, Chief Executive Officer, The Ohio Masonic Home
What did you do to make a
difference in someone’s life? In the life of your Lodge, Chapter, Council, Commandery or Valley? Every year there are over 2,500 officers in line at local lodges. There are 500 past masters of lodges, and thousands of officers in the other Masonic organizations. Did they add to the value of their lodge through their leadership? Did they help strengthen the line of succession? How are their members better off through their leadership? The Ohio Masonic Home hosted Masonic Home executives and trustees from 23 states across the country in June. There are over 40 homes and a variety of community services run by Masonic groups across the country. Together they account for over $3 million in services
provided every day in the name of Freemasonry. It opened in 1867. The smallest homes spend about $4 million a year on residents, the largest about $400 million. Leadership and succession were important topics of discussion. The attendees at our meeting worked on ways to strengthen their leadership skills and build their boards so that they would be successful far into the future. They worked on new ways to define their mission and vision, discussed their strengths and weaknesses and discovered ways to hold people accountable for creating a legacy of service. As an officer of a Masonic organization, you are expected to identify and coach a replacement for you through your appointment to the line. Look forward to
(L to R) Worshipful Brother David Bannerman talks with Worshipful Brother Dr. Gary Nicholson, Past Grand High Priest Kermit Zimmerman and Illustrious and Right Worshipful Brother Clarence “Jack” Hartzell.
the legacy you will leave. Find someone better than you are at what you want to see happen. Our boards are appointed in the same manner. Grand Lodge, Grand Chapter, Grand Council, Grand Commandery and the Scottish Rite Deputy for Ohio make appointments to our corporation with the intention of providing us with a legacy of leadership focused on our future needs. We need experts in marketing, sales, business, architecture, service, law, and aging. What expertise do you need for your legacy?
HISTORY OF OHIO FREEMASONRY - PART 5
Saying Goodbye to the Children of The Ohio Masonic Home This fifth in a series celebrating the 200th anniversary of Ohio Freemasonry looks at the post World War II years at The Ohio Masonic Home and the end of an era with the closing of the children’s home.
By the end of the 1940s, fewer and
fewer children were being admitted into the home. There were less than 50 children living on campus by 1946. A combination of the end of the war and more prosperous times meant a declining need for a children’s home. The Eastern Star and the Children’s buildings became adult housing. The war memorial in front of Bushnell Hall was installed in 1950 as a tribute to
alumni who served in World War I and World War II. While the campus census continued to climb into the mid 1950s, still fewer children were admitted. Admissions of children stopped in 1954 and the last 5 children left in 1956. The Children were a good fit for The Ohio Masonic Home. They were better off than many children in the community. They learned how to take care of themselves and their property, how to be successful and how to build relationships. Older residents enjoyed their presence. A few Masonic homes around the country still have children’s homes.
Kids who lived at The Ohio Masonic Home’s children’s home, which operated between 1897 and 1956, enjoyed many advantages such as gifts at Christmastime.
Starting nearly 100 years ago, in 1909, reunions of the children’s home alumni provided for renewal and reminiscing. The early reunions had incomplete records, so the first official alumni gathering was in 1926. Alumni gathered every three years on a July 4th weekend. Now meeting every other year, the latest reunion was this July 5-6. July/August 2008
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Annual Renaissance Fair Returns in October Western Reserve Masonic
Community in Medina is busy getting ready for a trip to the 16th Century when it presents its third annual Renaissance Fair on the campus 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, October 4 and Sunday, October 5.
will be a marketplace for shopping and plenty of Renaissance-era food and other treats. You never know what you may see or hear. The Renaissance Fair is free and open to the public. Western Reserve Masonic Community is located at 4931 Nettleton Road, near Route 18 and Interstate 71. For more information, call 866-433-1514.
New Health Program Keeps Residents Informed Western Reserve Masonic Community residents are being well informed on health and wellness issues through a new program developed by Resident Wellness Coordinator Renee Ashby. The program was started due to interest from residents eager to learn about how to live healthy lifestyles.
Fire breathers will be among the many amazing and entertaining things you can experience at Western Reserve Masonic Community’s third annual Renaissance Fair October 4 and 5.
There will be something for everybody with jousting knights on horseback, fire breathers, musicians and choirs and interactive events like archery. Kids can enjoy puppet shows and a dragon theater. There
The program will be a resource for residents with questions, referrals for needed or desired resources, quarterly educational seminars and a wellness newsletter. The first educational session on “Depression in the Elderly” was a huge success, drawing 80 residents. Speakers from the campus fitness center and therapy department were among those scheduled for future sessions. Other on-going services for on-campus residents will include availability to have lab/blood work done in their villa home or apartment. Renee Ashby will also be available to help with related questions or to perform functional assessments. “There is a need in our community for those interested in aging in place and we are happy to bring it to them,” said Renee. For more information regarding Western Reserve Masonic Community, call 1-866-433-1514 or visit www.ohiomasonichome.org.
Educational Series to Be Offered This Fall Browning Masonic Community
is a great place to live and a great place to learn. In May, the Waterville campus offered the surrounding community the chance to learn new skills through its new No Limits Education Series. The three-week program, done in cooperation with Owens Community College, is aimed at active adults with the goals of teaching fresh ideas, learning a new craft, or reliving history or mastering new skills. All for a reasonable cost in one-day and series classes. The first sessions included how to create bead jewelry with a designer
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and the chance to take one home. There was also a one-day series of three separate music classes in which participants could learn the mountain dulcimer, harmonica or ukulele. The final class was a painting class teaching the Bob Ross wet on wet technique. Marketing Director Tara Lloyd said the class attendees enjoyed the variety of classes and have already begun planning another series with greater diversity over an eight-week time period. Set dates were not available at press time, but Tara said the series will begin in early September and run through early November.
Proposed classes may include: Going Green: Sustainable Design Cold Porcelain Sculpting Zumba Exercise Fitness Jewelry Making Investing for the Non Investor Digital Photography History of the Phonograph Along with a six-week lecture series, some classes are also being proposed to be intergenerational, for grandparents and grandkids, like the LEGO building series. • • • • • • •
For the schedule, cost for classes and more information, contact Tara Lloyd at 866-878-4055 or e-mail Tara at tlloyd@ohiomasonichome.org.
Masonic Helping Hands Expands to Cincinnati Area The Masonic Helping Hands
Fairborn Office has recently completed six months helping seniors and disabled adults in Clark, Greene, Montgomery and Miami Counties. The program is now serving the Cincinnati area with its second office, which opened July 14. Masonic Helping Hands was created to serve seniors and disabled adults who want to stay in their homes with direct assistance through its “companions” who have the personality and skills best suited to an individual’s situation. Companions can help with light housekeeping, meal preparation, companionship, personal care and much more. The new Cincinnati office, located at 8180 Corporate Park Drive in Cincinnati, will offer
care to those in Hamilton, Warren, Clermont and Butler Counties. “Masonic Helping Hands can provide the services needed to maintain productive independence in the comfort of your own home,” said Natalie McDonald, Director. Masonic Helping Hands has several advantages over competing services. For one, it is proud to be a Veterans Administration Preferred Provider, meaning the service is recommended when it comes to assisting those who served their country when called. The program also makes sure all companions have a thorough screening process including fingerprinting, criminal background check, drug and alcohol test, physical exam and driving record verifi-
Masonic Helping Hands companions are skilled to help in a number of areas to make seniors’ lives easier.
cation. Other assistance includes the availability of an LPN to do medication set-up and administration. Masonic Helping Hands is run through Masonic Senior Services of Ohio Corp., a subsidiary of The Ohio Masonic Home, fulfilling its vision to serve people where they want to be. Masonic Helping Hands plans to add offices in Northwest and Northeast Ohio in the future. For more information on Masonic Helping Hands, call 877-564-0210.
Bible Has Become Virtual Sacred Relic in Fraternity St. John’s Lodge #1 in New York City is the owner of what is now known as the George Washington Presidential Inaugural Bible. On April 30, 1789, George Washington took his oath of office on this Bible and launched the Presidency of the United States of America. Since that time, the Bible has been used for the inaugurations of Warren G. Harding (of Ohio), Dwight D. Eisenhower, Jimmy Carter and George H.W. Bush. It was intended to be used at the inauguration of George W. Bush, but inclement weather did not permit it.
Other Presidents who have made use of the Bible include Andrew Johnson and Gerald Ford. The first presidential inaugural ceremony took place in the open gallery of the old City Hall on Wall Street in New York City, in the presence of a vast multitude. The oath of office was administered by Robert R. Livingstone. The open Bible on which the President laid his hand was held on a rich crimson velvet cushion by Mr. Otis, Secretary of Senate.
Among the distinguished guests present were John Adams, who had been chosen Vice President; George In addition to its inaugural duties, Clinton, first Governor of New York; the Bible was present at the funeral Philip Schuyler; John Jay; General processions of George Washington, Henry Knox, and Jacob Morton, Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Jackson and Master of St. John’s Lodge. Zachary Taylor. It has also been used After taking his oath, he kissed the at the cornerstone laying of the U.S. Capitol, the dedication of the Washing- Bible reverently, closed his eyes, and in an attitude of devotion, said: ton Monument, the centennials of the cornerstone laying of the White House, “So help me God!” U.S. Capitol, the Statue of Liberty.
Facts about the Bible The Bible was printed in London by Mark Baskett, printer to the King, taking three years to produce. It contains 103 steel engravings of maps and Old Testament scenes by English artist John Stuart. It is a King James Version, complete with Apocrypha and elaborately supplemented with historical, astronomical and legal data of that period. The Bible was procured for St. John’s Lodge by Jonathan Hampton who presented it to the Lodge on becoming its Master in 1770. St. John’s Lodge was founded in 1757, but its property was destroyed in the great fire of lower Manhattan on March 8, 1770. The only people allowed to take an oath on the Bible are the President of the United States; the Governor of New York; the Grand Master of Masons in New York; the Master-elect of St. John’s Lodge, and Third Degree Candidates of St. John’s Lodge. The Bible must be accompanied by 3 members of St. John’s Lodge whenever it travels. July/August 2008
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Ohio Joins Meeting of World Masonic Leaders in Washington Top Ohio Grand Lodge leaders
attended what has been described as the second largest gathering of Grand Lodges in the history of Freemasonry. Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett led the Ohio delegation to the World Conference of Grand Lodges in Washington, DC in May. Representatives from 120 Grand Lodges of 5 continents attended. The largest gathering of Grand Lodges was at the 275th Anniversary of the United Grand Lodge of England in London in 1992. Virtually all North American Grand Lodges were represented, with 24 Grand Lodges from Central and South America, 23 from Europe, and others from Africa, Asia, and Australia. The delegates met in session and discussed common problems
of worldwide Freemasonry. Representatives gathered at social gatherings and dinners to learn more about each other in one-on-one conversations. Each delegate was given an earphone at the sessions to hear comments, translated into four different languages. One of the highlight events of the Conference was a ceremony at the World War II Memorial in Washington, DC. The Grand Master of each U.S. Grand Lodge, in turn, was presented a Masonic floral emblem and carried it to his state’s monument in the Memorial. Representatives from other countries also participated in the placement of the floral emblems. When Grand Master Winnett was given the floral display for Ohio, he had to move nearly halfway around
The Masonic floral emblems stand ready for the World War II Memorial ceremony, beneath a very inspirational quotation on the Memorial’s wall.
the huge oval Memorial to the “Ohio” site. He was being pushed in a wheelchair, because he broke his leg a day before traveling to Washington.
Six Grand Lodge Officers, plus three brethren from Dayton, formed the Ohio delegation at the World War II Memorial ceremony, which was part of the World Conference of Grand Lodges. From left are: John A. Johnson, Worshipful Master of Solar Lodge #730 in Dayton; Terry W. Posey, Senior Grand Warden; Ronald L. Winnett, Grand Master; Thomas H. Galyen, Grand Treasurer; George O. Braatz, Grand Secretary; Bradford A. Goebel, Junior Grand Warden; W. Michael Lawson, Past Master of Solar Lodge; Charles R. Murphy, Deputy Grand Master, and David N. Kleiner, Senior Deacon of Solar Lodge. The three members of Solar Lodge came to Washington just to witness portions of the World Conference.
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Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett, who broke his leg a day before the conference, still served as one of Ohio’s delegates at the sessions.
When the Grand Master reached the “Ohio” location, the passageway was filled with people, many of whom were in wheelchairs. It was discovered that 32 World War II veterans from Central Ohio had been flown to Washington as part of the Honor Flight program, and they were at the Memorial at the same time as the Masonic ceremony was going on. Most Worshipful Brother Winnett, a retired army officer himself, was
Grand Secretary George O. Braatz talks with Most Worshipful Brother Devinder Gupta, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of India, who is also a former Chief Justice of the High Court in India.
pleased to talk with some of the Ohio veterans, several of whom where Masons. He noted that this coincidence put a great cap on an already impressive event. Other Grand Lodge Officers attending the World Conference were Charles R. Murphy, Deputy Grand Master; Terry W. Posey, Senior Grand Warden; Bradford A. Goebel, Junior Grand Warden; Thomas H. Galyen, PGM, Grand With several Ohio Grand Lodge Officers nearby, Grand Master Winnett, face hidden Treasurer, and George O. Braatz, behind the Masonic floral emblem, is pushed by Senior Grand Warden Terry W. Posey. PGM, Grand Secretary.
Grand Master Gives Opening Prayer At State Legislature Session To recognize The Grand Lodge of Ohio’s 200th Anniversary, Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett was asked to give the opening prayer at a legislative session in Columbus on April 29. An informative introduction was provided by William G. Batchelder, a member of the Ohio House of Representatives and a 40-year member of Medina Lodge #58,
who had arranged for the Grand Master’s appearance. As part of his prayer, Most Worshipful Brother Winnett said, “Great Creator, I humbly offer the thanks of the Freemasons of Ohio, who two centuries ago in 1808 met at the Statehouse in Chillicothe to form our statewide governing body, The Grand Lodge of Ohio. Our fraternity has been blessed with
members who have been governors, legislators, and clerks, captains of industry, farmers, and mechanics. They have worked hand in hand with their fellow citizens to building the Buckeye State. . . We ask that You continue to bless and prosper the state of Ohio and its residents as we do our best to accomplish Your will.” After the opening of the session, the Grand Master had the opportunity to talks with legislators and legislative aides who were Masons.
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Parade, Ceremony, Picnic Enormous Successes in Bicentennial Celebration An estimated 10,000 Masons and
family members were drawn to Columbus on Saturday (June 21) to participate in a full day of activities helping the Grand Lodge of Ohio to celebrate its 200th anniversary. The day started with a parade in downtown Columbus, with more than 4,000 persons marching down High Street, from Nationwide Boulevard to the Statehouse. All parts of the family of Freemasonry in Ohio were involved, including floats or marching units from the Order
of Eastern Star; the Scottish Rite; Chapter, Council and Commandery of the York Rite; Shrine, High Twelve; and Job’s Daughters, Rainbows, and DeMolay, in addition to others. Numerous Lodges and Masonic Districts were involved. A huge delegation from the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio also took part. The parade lasted for 1 hour and 20 minutes. One of the goals of Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett was to have “all of the Masonic family” participate
in this Bicentennial Event, and that goal was met. After the parade, thousands gathered on the Statehouse lawn, and officers of the Grand Lodge of Ohio reenacted the traditional Cornerstone Ceremony for the Statehouse. A new, special stone was used in the ceremony, which is being donated to the state and will be on display in the Statehouse museum. The stone is inscribed: “May our freedom rest upon a sure foundation of good government.
Above, Ohio Eastern Star Worthy Grand Matron Catherine F. Jones and Worthy Grand Patron Richard D. Barrick ride a carriage with their spouses. At left, Grove City Lodge #689 members, home Lodge of the Grand Master, ride their float. Below, picnic is enjoyed near Ohio Village and prizewinning float of 25th Masonic District.
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On June 21, 2008, the Freemasons of Ohio used this stone to reenact the laying of the cornerstone of the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus.� The Seal of the State of Ohio and the special Bicentennial logo were also etched on the stone. After the ceremony, a picnic was held at the Ohio Historical Society for all Masons and family members who participated. Nearly 8,000 persons went through the lines to receive a picnic lunch. Many sat on the grassy area, near I-71, for
their lunch, while others toured the Historical Society Museum and enjoyed the air conditioned comfort inside. Tours of Ohio Village were available, and many took the opportunity to visit Ohio Village Lodge, No. 10, the historic Lodge in the village, sponsored by the Grand Lodge of Ohio. The 1860s style baseball game held at Ohio Village concluded with a 5-3 victory for the Keystone Reds over the Blue Ashlars.
Above, Lauren Simmons, Grand Worthy Advisor of Ohio’s Rainbow Girls, poses with Mrs. Janice F. Morris, Rainbow Supreme Deputy in Ohio, in front of the racing car which Lauren drives, which was part of the parade.
Above, thousands gather at Ohio Statehouse for cornerstone reenactment ceremony. July/August 2008
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Veteran Experiences Night to Remember Springfield Masonic
dinner at the Ritz Carlton Community independent Hotel. They met media living resident Chuck George celebrities such as ABC News is proud of being a World Anchor Charles Gibson and War II veteran and for his other print and television volunteer work. Now he’s news executives. During a helping fellow veterans ceremony, Chuck and another with a unique Ohio-based Honor Flight volunteer program called Honor were called to the stage and Flight. Honor Flight is a recognized. non-profit organization that “We got a standing flies veterans to Washington ovation, which made us feel D.C. to see the World War really proud,” said Chuck. II Monument for no cost. “This was a first class event Chuck has been a volunteer all the way.” with the program since its Chuck said about the Springfield Masonic Community independent living inception in 2005. only tough thing about the resident Brother Chuck George, right, met with former In May, Chuck earned event was having to wear a U.S. Senator and Brother Bob Dole, and Brother Al a special honor by being tuxedo. But that was a small Dunn, of Dayton, left, at the World War II Monument invited with other Honor price to pay. during a recent trip to Washington D.C. Flight staff to Washington D.C. When not volunteering with for the 10th White House News The day included a visit to the Honor Flight, Chuck is always Photographers Association Annual World War II Memorial, where busy around the Springfield Dinner on May 10. Chuck met former U.S. Senator campus. One of his favorite Bob Dole, who greets visitors to activities is volunteering at the the memorial several times a week. Pathways Center for Alzheimer’s Chuck was also pleased to meet Care, where he spends time with several high-ranking Masons as residents. the World Conference of Masonic “I just love volunteering and Grand Lodges also met in D.C. Each year, the Grand Master meeting a lot of people,” he said. presents Excellence in Youth that week. (See story on page 6.) For more information about Awards to outstanding young Chuck and the Honor Flight staff persons in each district. In this Springfield Masonic Community, call were the guests of Stephen Brown, picture, Grand Master Ronald L. 937-525-3006 or 1-888-290-2664 or a renowned photographer at the Winnett listens as award winner visit www.ohiomasonichome.org. Lauren Simmons, of Cortland, Ohio, who is also Grand Worthy Advisor of Ohio’s Rainbow Girls, addresses the audience in the 25th Masonic District.
Youth Honored with Awards
R&SM Council Masons Help Diabetic Children
Hundreds of diabetic children are eagerly planning to attend a summer camp, especially organized for them and supported by the Grand Council, R&SM, of Ohio. Eight camps around Ohio are planned for this summer. At camp, the children learn they are not alone, and they find comfort and confidence that they can have a happy life and manage their diabetes just by following a few simple guidelines. Council Masons have been supporting these camps in Ohio since 1977, 977, increasing contributions each year, until gifts surpassed $59,000 last year.
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Sharing Life’s Lessons Ken Kettlewell’s life has had
see people through the best and Ken became a Mason in 1968. “I the worst of times.” Ken estimates joined out of curiosity. There were several highlights, from meeting he has performed more than 700 so many men in my congregation presidents and befriending weddings, 900 funerals and 1,800 who were Masons and I wanted to U.S. senators to ministering to baptisms. know what they knew.” thousands of people. Even in Ken joined retirement Ken continues to Englebeck Lodge in set milestones. Akron, later went to Ken shows you’re Lodge of Amity #5 in never too old to try new Zanesville and served things and continue your as Grand Prior of previous work. As proof, Scottish Rite Masons. the Springfield Masonic Ken said Masonry Community independent gave him an outlet he living resident has just wasn’t able to have in released his fifth book, a his profession. collection of devotionals “As a minister you for retirement center have a problem in assisted living residents, being too friendly with and is as active as he’s your congregation. ever been. Masonry allowed my “I want to do things,” wife, Jean, and me said Ken. “I have the time to make friendships to do these things and we enjoy to this day there is still a lot for me that didn’t conflict to do.” with my professional Ken grew up in New obligations.” Concord, Ohio and knew A unique friendship what he wanted to be Ken enjoys is with one from the age of 4 – a of Ohio’s most notable minister. After attending people. As a schoolboy, Muskingum College and Springfi eld Masonic Community independent living resident Ken was classmates a seminary in Pittsburgh, with John Glenn, who Ken began a 43-year career Ken Kettlewell has authored five books, including a just became famous as the as a Presbyterian minister. released book of devotionals. fi rst American to orbit the earth in He was particularly honored “A minister has the richest life 1962 and represented Ohio in the in 2007 when he baptized the possibilities of all,” said Ken. “You U.S. Senate for 25 years. In 1998, grandchildren of people he the same year Glenn became the baptized as children. oldest person ever to go into space, When not working with the church organ and chime he became a 33rd degree Mason choir or doing morning and Ken was asked to put the ring devotionals, Ken volunteers on Glenn’s finger. He and Senator Gerard Masonic Lodge #428 at the Pathways Center for Glenn still exchange letters and honored its oldest Past Master, Alzheimer’s Care on the Christmas cards. Charles A. Perry, on his 100th Springfield campus and at Ken said he doesn’t see any birthday. Worshipful Brother two offi ces on the campus. He future book projects, but you never Perry, who must now use a also leads monthly resident know. “Life’s full of possibilities, wheelchair, was greeted by District birthday celebrations, the and I want to take advantage of Deputy Grand Master Ralph E. campus High 12 Club and them while I can,” he said. McLemore, Worshipful Master works out each day in the Charles L. Short, Jack Schwartz, and Sherwin K. Baril. fitness center.
100-Year-Old Past Master Honored
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Special Bicentennial Basket Now Available as Commemorative Item The TV Time Basket dimensions are 8 inches wide, by 6 ¼ inches A Longaberger® Time™ deep, by 5 ¼ inches TV (front height)
Longaberger® lid is engraved by Basket Accessories, LLC, located in Akron, PA. Basket with lid engraved with The cost of the Bicentennial and 7 inches (back height). The GrandisMaster Ronaldin L.color Winnett’s Basket, protector and engraved basket warm brown with pin trim design is aofgreat way to lid is $100 (tax included). The alapel primary strip medium participate in the Bicentennial of the UPS shipping and handling and blue and a secondary trim strip Grand Lodge of Ohio – and have a insurance fee is $15. of dark blue. The trim strips are unique commemorative item. Due to the fact that the basket accented by customized square profits from sale made of this and protector, engraved lid and andAll compasses tackthe covers Grand Lodge Bicentennial Basket custom tack covers come from by ArtVac in Rhode Island. The will be donated to the Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation. ™
different locations, please allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery. Orders will be taken through October 31, 2008.
Order Form For Bicentennial Longaberger® Basket I would like to order: ___ Basket sets @ $100 each = Subtotal $_____________ Shipping, handling & insurance @ 15 per set = Subtotal $_____________ TOTAL $_____________ Check or money order only, make payable to: James Oughterson, Independent Longaberger® Home Consultant, 2 Winnipeg Plaza, Washington Court House, OH 43160. Please note on the memo line: Bicentennial Basket Set. Questions can be answered by James Oughterson, 740-335-1612 or jimkayo@roadrunner.com.
Name______________________________________________________ Lodge______________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________ City________________________________________________________ State_______________________ Zip____________________________ Telephone___________________________________________________
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.
High School Athlete Assisted By Masonic Charity Gifts James F. Easterling, left, Grand Marshal of the Grand Lodge, hands Charitable Foundation check to Natalie McCoy to help with her niece’s medical expenses. Ronald C. Farver, Worshipful Master of Cypress Lodge, and Dewey Jenkins, District Deputy Grand Master, assisted in the presentation.
Miranda Liggett, a student-
athlete at Strasburg High School, was involved in a car accident in December, which left her paralyzed and still in the hospital. Cypress Lodge #604 in Strasburg in the 21st Masonic District held a dinner and auction and raised more than $13,000 to assist in her medical expenses. The Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation also presented $1,500 to help in the medical costs.
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“Miranda has a long road ahead of her and she is determined to walk again one day, Natalie McCoy, Miranda’s aunt said, in accepting
the Grand Lodge check. “Thank you so much for all that the Masons have done to help.”
‘Kitchen Sink’ Pin Presented By Grand Master Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett, right, presents the “Kitchen Sink” pin to William B. DeBlaey, Worshipful Master of Hudson Lodge #510. A small Masonic “club” was formed a few years ago. Any Mason to eat a huge banana split at a popular ice cream shop in Canton, Ohio, would become a member. The Grand Master became a member a few years ago, and is eligible to wear the “Kitchen Sink” pin, and he shared the honor with Worshipful Brother DeBlaey, who proudly displays his empty ice cream dish.
Lodge Simulates 1808 Masonic Meeting A Lodge meeting conducted as if it were 1808 and a meal of wild turkey, stuffing, cornbread, and vegetable soup were part of the Bicentennial celebration dinner held by Forest City Lodge #388. The Lodge officers were dressed in authentic costumes and presented ritual from 1808. Also, a fife and drum provided entertainment after the meeting.
Cornerstone Ceremonies Becoming Popular in Ohio Ohio’s Grand Lodge Officers are increasingly being called upon to perform the historic Masonic Cornerstone Laying Ceremony. This proud tradition of the Fraternity has been carried out numerous times this year across Ohio. Pictured here is one example. It was a ceremony for Frazeysburg Elementary School, and sponsored by Frazeysburg Lodge #490. At the podium, Senior Grand Warden Terry W. Posey displays the Masonic level, while Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett, wearing his top hat, provides instructions. Other Grand Lodge Officers observe the action. July/August 2008
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FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE
This ‘n That Around the Foundation By Right Worshipful Brother Timothy B. Strawn, CAE, President, The OMH Benevolent Endowment Foundation
We made an error in the story
last issue about Lady Linda’s Charity Auction, September 13th at Aladdin Shrine Center. If you’re interested in attending…. a great dinner, entertainment by the Masonic Troubadour, Howie Damron, and his daughter, Karisa, auction of the gift baskets prepared by the Deputies’ wives in each of the Districts and others with all proceeds going in support of Lady Linda’s List…contact Worshipful Brother Brian Bolyard at 614/2673514 (this is the correct number…. thanks to Brother Joe Simmons for taking all those other calls!) or email to LadyLinda2008@aol.com. At the completion of all the District Receptions, Lady Linda’s List total stands at better than $18,000! More than 40 Covering the Future stone reservations have been received. It is anticipated that as many as 60 stones will be in the final design. There’s still time to submit your reservation! For a reservation form and text submittal form, go to www.ohiomasonichome.org, click on the Endowment Foundation tab, then click on Covering the Future in
the pull down menu. Commemorate your lodge, your Masonic family or a special fraternal friend in a very special way. All gifts are important to us… every one of them does its part in providing the support we need to continue to make the facilities and services of all the organizations within The Ohio Masonic Home available today and tomorrow. We write a thank you letter for each gift, ranging from 25 cents to thousands of dollars. But imagine how happy we were earlier this year…on March 11th to be exact… when a million dollar…yes, million dollar… gift arrived from a terminating charitable remainder trust! The trust was established thirty years ago by a brother in a Columbus-area lodge who made us the remainder beneficiary to receive the trust after his beloved family member, the income beneficiary, passed away. The day got better when another terminating trust gift from the wife of that brother/benefactor also arrived and provided a generous additional amount!! We are…and have been….truly blessed by all your gifts…those
you send today and those you provide for in bequests, trusts and other charitable giving instruments that will benefit us in future years. Thank you for remembering The Ohio Masonic Home in these special ways! See you “on the trail”…at Home Day in Springfield on September 7th (when we’ll “bury” the bicentennial time capsules); Lady Linda’s Charity Dinner and Auction, September 13th in Columbus; the September Legends event in Fairborn on the 15th and 16th; the Western Reserve Renaissance Faire in Medina on October 4th and 5th ; and/or Grand Lodge in Columbus, October 17th and 18th. In the meantime, if we can be of assistance, of if you need more information about making a charitable gift to the Home, don’t hesitate to call us toll-free at: 888/248-2664! Thanks. To find out how you can support The Ohio Masonic Home, please contact Right Worshipful Brother Tim Strawn, President of the Benevolent Endowment Foundation, toll free at 888-248-2664.
Dayton Philharmonic Helps Celebrate Bicentennial The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra performed two concerts in the Dayton Masonic Center in March to help celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Grand Lodge of Ohio. Ticketholders were provided tours of the Masonic Center before each of the concerts. The concerts featured the rare E.M. Skinner pipe organ in the center’s Scottish Rite Cathedral. This magnificent instrument is
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July/August 2008
one of only a dozen of its type in the world and has the power of 4,700 pipes. Acclaimed musician, Todd Wilson, director of music and organ of Church of the Covenant in Cleveland, was the guest recital soloist. Among the selections on the concert was The Magic Flute Overture, written by Wolfgang Mozart, a Master Mason, who penned that music as a salute to Freemasonry.
Cincinnati Masons Portray Degree at Ohio Masonic Home A bus load of more than 25 Masons from Cincinnati traveled to the Ohio Masonic Home in Springfield on May 31 to portray the Master Mason Degree for brethren residing in the Home. The event was initiated by Dexter A. Denney, Worshipful Master of Cincinnati-Lafayette Lodge #483, and included members from several Lodges. Most Worshipful Brother C. Rolland Lattanner, a Past Grand Master and resident of the Home, participated in the ritual presentation. Right Worshipful Brother Norman J. Mick, Senior Grand Deacon of the Grand Lodge, brought greetings from the Grand Master.
Other residents of the Home in attendance included Right Worshipful Brother Dale Mortimer; George Davidson, Past Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery, Knights Templar, of Ohio, and Charles Karth, Past Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter, RAM, of Ohio. Others who were part of the traveling delegation included Edward F. Howard, Associate Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge; Raymond T. Clark, Past Grand Tyler, and First Masonic District Deputy Grand Masters Steven M. Grathwohl and George W. Koehnke III.
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 March 1 and April 30, 2008. $10,000 + Brister, C. E. Evans, Florence M. Evans, Morgan L. Moore, Florian H. Smith, Francis Eugene Sturdivant, Webster $5,000 - $9,999 Miles, Louise C. Moss, George K. Seifert, Dorothy T. & Myron T. Sheeler, Howard M. The Springfield Foundation Wilson, Helen G. $2,500 - $4,999 Crans, Julia M. Schulze, Vivian H. Sine, Anna Laura $1,000 - $2,499 11th Masonic District Association 16th Masonic District Association Alpha Lodge #729, F&AM Arters, George D. & B.J. Davis, Orlando W. Ely Lodge #424, F&AM Hosler, Bessie V. Kettlewell, Kenneth Meridian Sun Lodge #69, F&AM Schultz, Adolph Shrive, Harold George Siekeres, Julius M. University Lodge #631, F&AM Warden, Walter $500 - $999 21st Masonic District Association 25th Masonic District Association 5th Masonic District Association Bannerman, Wm. David & Anita Braatz, George O. & Marilyn
Charles T. Raymer-Covenant Lodge #683, F&AM Collinwood Lodge #582, F&AM Community Lodge #684, F&AM Fairborn Lodge #764, F&AM Heath Lodge #771, F&AM Hershberger, Kenneth E. Highland Lodge #38, F&AM Hyde Park Lodge #589, F&AM Karth, Charles E. & Marjorie Kelly, Floyd Michael, Ray F. Moriah Lodge #105, F&AM Somerset Lodge #76, F&AM Stow Lodge #768, F&AM The Richardson Family Valley of Dayton, AASR Williams, Frank R. $100 - $499 10th Masonic District Association 14th Masonic District Officers Association 15th Masonic District Association 18th Masonic District Association 19th Masonic District Association 2nd District Officers Association 3rd Masonic District A. V. Powell & Associates Alturas Lodge #537, F&AM Amity Lodge #5, F&AM Ashland Lodge #151, F&AM Brookins, Gary J. Brown, Gordon P. Bucyrus Lodge #139, F&AM Byerman, Forest L. & Catherine Carroll Lodge #124, F&AM Chagrin Falls Chapter #152, RAM Davis, Diane D.; Davis, Billie Ann; Price, Jim; Denny, Rhonda & Roger Dieckhoner, Craig R. Fairfield Lodge #261, F&AM Fayette Lodge #107, F&AM Georgetown Lodge #72, F&AM
Grove City Lodge #689, F&AM Gustavus Lodge #442, F&AM Harvest Chapter #564, OES Headlee, Jan E. Hebron Lodge #116, F&AM Heilman, Larry L., Kristin & Family; Waggoner, Elsa; Waggoner, Roland, Joyce & Family; Swary, Al, Lynn & Family Holcomb, J. Robert & Antoinette Jeffersonville Lodge #468, F&AM Keller Williams Realty Kelly, William H. Kirkwood Lodge #446, F&AM Lucas County Memorial Lodge Lynchburg Lodge #178, F&AM McKibben, Jerry & Patti Nichols, Junior A., U.S.A.F., Ret. & Ursaline Niles-McKinley Lodge #794, F&AM Ohio State Secretaries Association, F&AM Paree, George M. Pataskala Lodge #404, F&AM Pfeifer, Carl E. & Norma Quaker City Lodge #500, F&AM Rockton Lodge #316, F&AM Sanner, John M. Savannah Lodge #466, F&AM Shank, Harold & Josephine Simpkins, David B. Thompson, Brent Edward Thompson, Glenn E. University Heights Lodge #738, F&AM Venus Lodge #152, F&AM Webb Lodge #252, F&AM William Farr Lodge #672, F&AM Xenia Lodge #49, F&AM Yaney, Carl Yeatman-Mt. Washington Lodge #162, F&AM Yellow Springs Lodge #421, F&AM
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Remaining Vital Illustrious Brother Michael D. Tyne, 33°
Illustrious
Brother Mike Tyne lives in Galena, Ohio, with his wife Rebecca. They have three daughters, six grandchildren and one greatgrandson. Mike has worked in health care for 50 years, primarily as a health facilities planner. He is Chairman of the Board for one of North America’s largest health care architectural firms. He has worked with hundreds of medical centers, plus 75 children’s hospitals located throughout the U.S. and Canada, including nine Shiner’s hospitals. Mike and Rebecca are particularly passionate about child welfare. “That’s where our hearts are,” he said. Mike has served for 18 years on the Board of the Boy Scouts, in addition to numerous other child-oriented volunteer agencies. Rebecca brought a nationally recognized program, “Kids on the Block,” to Delaware County. The
program uses puppets to talk with third graders about their choices in abusive situations. Rebecca raises funds to operate the program, recruits and trains volunteer puppeteers, and coordinates the program on a day-to-day basis. Mike’s and Rebecca’s other passion is SCUBA diving. After taking an introductory SCUBA course while on vacation 17 years ago, they got hooked and have been diving ever since. “The more you do it, the more proficient you become, the more fun it is,” Mike said. He has taken diving a step further by pursuing underwater photography. Brother Tyne first became involved with Masonry via DeMolay. He became a Master Mason in 1970. The next year he pursued York and Scottish Rite degrees and also joined Aladdin Shrine. For the past 18 years, Mike has served as a trustee of Aladdin Shriner’s Hospital Association for Children (ASHAC). ASHAC provides medical care to children with orthopedic problems and
BEACON A JOINT PUBLICATION OF THE GRAND LODGE OF OHIO AND THE OHIO MASONIC HOME
July/August 2008 • VOLUME 15, ISSUE 4
In This Issue: Annual Renaissance Fair Returns in October..............Page 4 Masonic Helping Hands Expands to Cincinnati Area..Page 5 World Gathering of Masons..................................Pages 6-7 Parade Celebration...............................................Pages 8-9
burns, supplementing the work of Shriner’s Hospitals at no cost to the child or their family. He is also a trustee of the 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Learning Center in Columbus. Mike became a 33° Scottish Rite Mason in 2000. He was appointed to the Aladdin Shrine Divan in 2007. Mike has served the fraternity as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Springfield Masonic Community. More recently, he was appointed by Most Worshipful Brother Ronald L. Winnett to the Board of the Ohio Masonic Home. “The Ohio Masonic Home has an incredible history and mission,” Brother Tyne said. “At the same time, we are aware of the need to change in order to remain vital. We need to look at the services we provide and the environment in which they are being offered. As board members, we have the responsibility to make sure adequate resources are available to enable The Ohio Masonic Home to accomplish its mission. I believe The Ohio Masonic Home will make the changes necessary for continued growth and success.”
2655 W. National Road Springfield, Ohio 45504-3698 Web site: www.ohiomasonichome.org Web site: www.freemason.com
