The Pennsylvania Freemason - Autumn, 2023

TH E PE N N S Y LVANIA

AUTUMN 2023

Brothers Going the Distance for Charity p. 6

THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON VOL. LXXI, AUTUMN 2023, No. 4 ©2023 The R.W. Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Pennsylvania

EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman Jeffrey M. Wonderling, R.W.G.M. Larry A. Derr, R.W.D.G.M. Robert D. Brink, R.W.S.G.W. P.J. Roup, R.W.J.G.W. Adam C. Heese, R.W.G.T. Mark A. Haines, R.W.G.S. EDITORIAL STAFF Tina L. Lutter - Production Coordinator Megan L. Frame - Graphic Designer Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation Staff Masonic Library & Museum of Pennsylvania Staff (Publication No. USPS 426-140) Autumn 2023 Issue of The Pennsylvania Freemason is published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Articles and photographs to be considered for publication should be sent with local Masonic authority to the address above, to the attention of The Pennsylvania Freemason or emailed to pafreemason@masonicvillages.org.

Except by special arrangement, all articles, photographs and artwork become the property of the Grand Lodge.

Published by the Masonic Villages, owned and operated by the Grand Lodge of F.& A.M. of Pennsylvania, as a means of soliciting the physical and financial support of the members, their families and the public in general. Periodical postage is paid at Elizabethtown, PA, and additional mailing offices.

Inside This Issue 3

FREEMASONRY TODAY Grand Master’s Message • Annual Grand Communication • December Annual Communication • Pennsylvania Lodge of Research Stated Meeting • Library & Museum Speaker Series

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MEMBERSHIP An Inspiration to Others • Going the Distance for Charity • Cycling Across America • Lodge Sponsors Shop with a Cop • Masons Help Widows “Fight the Blight” • Follow Us on Social Media • Are We Reaching? • Preparing for the Future and Embracing the Past

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PHILANTHROPY Grand Master’s Benefit Rally • Car Auctioned for Charity • Family Night at the Phillies • Embodying Masonic Values Art Contest Winners Announced • 6th Annual Grand Lodge Sporting Clays Results • Growing the Transplant Family • Pennsylvania DeMolay State Convention • Bullying Prevention Workshops • PMYF 2024 Scholarship Opportunities • The Best Move • The Season of Giving

We appreciate the many submissions we receive for consideration. We apologize, but due to space constraints, we are not able to publish every submission we receive.

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP (Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United States Code) Autumn 2023, The Pennsylvania Freemason, published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, Elizabethtown, PA 17022.

Publishers: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Editor: Jeffrey M. Wonderling.

Owner: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Known bondholders: none. No advertising handled. Free distribution averages 87,000 each quarter. I certify that the statements made by me are correct and complete.

Jeffrey M. Wonderling, Editor Mailing address changes If your address on the back cover of this magazine is not exactly as you have provided it to us, please be aware that addresses are modified through the various mailing process requirements required by the U.S. Postal Service. If you have any questions or would like to inform us of a change in address, please contact the Office of Mission Advancement and Development at 1-800-599-6454 or giving@ masonicvillages.org.

Postmaster: Send address changes to: The Pennsylvania Freemason, c/o Masonic Village, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022-2199.

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FREEMASONRY TODAY

Brethren, Wow, how time flies! It seems like yesterday I was introduced as Grand Master at the Inaugural Banquet while REO Speedwagon’s “Roll with the Changes” played.

I chose that song to emphasize that if we are to grow, we must embrace necessary changes to remain relevant.

I am thankful for so many whose efforts behind the scenes gave me the opportunity to concentrate on the areas where I believed I could have a meaningful impact, specifically education and membership. Your incredible Public Relations team has made significant improvements relative to marketing, education and technology and continues to look for new ways to put our fraternity in front of potential members. Member education is key to a positive Masonic experience, and I am grateful for the redesigned program our Regional Educators have implemented. The Committee on Membership and IT Services has worked diligently on the transition to the Grandview membership system, which offers helpful resources on a convenient platform.

Our Masonic Library and Museum staff take pride in ensuring your Masonic Temple and its contents are well taken care of, and their dedication shows in how wonderful the Temple looks. The staff at ONE has made our stunning facility one of the top wedding and special events venues in Philadelphia.

Your Masonic Villages have become the pinnacle of what similar organizations strive to be. Last year, all campuses achieved a 5-Star rating — no small feat. During my travels, I continue to receive compliments, and many are in awe of what we have in Pennsylvania. Every leader and team member I have met during my visits exhibits the same love and self-sacrifice they demonstrated during the dark days of the pandemic.

The Trustees of the Consolidated Fund are to be commended for ensuring we are able to fund our Masonic endeavors. Each year, they are charged with making up the $20 to 30 million deficit we realize through our non-profit missions centered on taking care of Masons and their loved ones in need. In 2022, our Masonic Charities provided $48.5 million dollars’ worth of charitable care and services across Pennsylvania.

The Masonic Blood+Organ Donor Program continues to sponsor blood drives to help our communities and our Masonic families. In addition, the program ambassadors provide insight and assistance to organ donors and recipients, lending comfort and support throughout the challenging process.

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The charity closest to my heart is the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation. Our Masonic youth leaders change lives.

Watching our grandson thrive as he transitions to young adulthood has been absolutely incrinculent, and it is a direct result of what he learned in DeMolay. I cannot overstate the obvious: “Young people who go through a Masonic youth program have a distinct advantage over those who don’t.”

I would be remiss if I didn’t recognize the Boards of Directors for each of our Masonic Charities, who freely donate their time and talent to forward these charitable missions. Finally, the team supporting the Grand Master determines the success or failure of an administration, from preparing for Grand Lodge functions to fostering positive experiences to administering day-to-day tasks. The work of the District Deputy Grand Masters is the lifeblood of the Grand Lodge. Without them leading the Grand Master’s charge and monitoring the health and harmony of lodges, there can be no progress. Having the encouragement and guidance of the Past Grand Masters is a perpetual comfort. All the elected Grand Lodge officers I have served with over the past eight years have been more than Masonic brothers; we have agreed, disagreed, debated, laughed and cried together. I hold each of them in highest regard and in a most special place in my heart.

Being Grand Master is a great honor, but also a formidable task. There were times when things didn’t go exactly as planned, but I believe I have kept the promise I made to you: that I’d give it my best effort. Most of the programs initiated during this administration are foundational and will continue to evolve through succeeding administrations, so the benefits will be realized over time.

What I will miss the most is meeting and interacting with the membership. More than anything, I will cherish and remember you; my fraternal love and commitment will always remain.

I began this journey ready to “Roll with the Changes,” and I leave you with a parting motivation, coincidently

by REO Speedwagon, the song “Keep Pushin.’” I encourage you to keep pushing for Freemasonry and from deep within: Thank you, and God bless.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Jeffrey M. Wonderling R.W. Grand Master Online Edition PaGrandLodge.org/magazine

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FREEMASONRY TODAY

Annual Grand Communication O PEN I N S TA LL ATI O N O F L A R RY A . D ER R

Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2023 Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square S C H E D U LE O F E V E NT S 10 a.m. Anticipated Open Installation of Larry A. Derr as R.W. Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania 1 p.m. Meet the Grand Master and Grand Officers

2 p.m. Special Meeting of Ashara Casiphia Lodge No. 551 4 p.m. Cash Bar Reception 5:30 p.m. Banquet followed by entertainment by ARTRAGEOUS

ARTRAGEOUS is a troupe of multi-talented live performance artists, world-class singers and recording artists, highly trained dancers and audience motivators, and veteran musicians hailing from the high desert of New Mexico. Their high energy performance is a combination of all arts on one stage, combined with humor and interaction in a frenzy of movement and color. The audience becomes participants in the show.

Reservations are due by Nov. 30, 2023.

For tickets ($125 per person), contact your District Deputy Grand Master or Brother Jack Harley, P.M., at 717-917-3359 or jharley4@ptd.net.

All Are Welcome!

ARTRAGEOUS will offer a special Artreach program for children and families on Thursday, Dec. 28, at 10 a.m., at the Lancaster Marriott.

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December Annual Communication TO THE MEMBERS OF THE GRAND LODGE: You are hereby requested to attend the closed Annual Business Communication of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania to be held on Wednesday, Dec. 27, at 8 a.m., at the Lancaster Marriott and Convention Center at Penn Square, 25 South Queen St., Lancaster, PA 17603, at which time the business of the Grand Lodge will be conducted.

You are also hereby requested to attend the Open Annual Grand Communication of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania at the Lancaster Marriott and Convention Center, on Wednesday, Dec. 27, at 10 a.m., at which time the Grand Lodge Officers will be installed. To watch this meeting virtually, scan the QR code.

By Order of the R.W. Grand Master Mark A. Haines, R.W. Grand Secretary

Pennsylvania Lodge of Research Stated Meeting SATURDAY, DEC. 9, AT 10 A.M., AT THE GREATER PITTSBURGH MASONIC CENTER Open to all Masons, the program will feature general information about the Craft and at least two research paper presentations, followed by discussion and fellowship. Brethren interested in submitting papers for possible presentation at future meetings or who have any questions may contact the Secretary at Lodge.of.Research@pagrandlodge.org. 2024 Tentative Meeting Dates: June 15 and Dec. 14.

Presenters: Masonic dress

Officers: Tuxedo (no tails, no gloves)

Members: Coat and tie with member jewel

Masonic Library & Museum SPEAKER SERIES Monthly guest speakers present free programs open to the public. Reservations are required: call 215-988-1917 or email templeevents@pagrandlodge.org. The programs are live-streamed as well; for more information, visit PaMasonicTemple.org/events. If you have an idea for a speaker series program, contact Brother Mike Comfort at 215-988-1977.

Cuba Freemasonry, Democracy and Revolution Nov. 18, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

This presentation will center around the history of Cuban Freemasonry and its relationship to the many revolutions and insurrections in the country’s history.

Presenter: Brother R.W. Moises I. Gomez is a member of Atlas Pythagoras Lodge No. 10, Westfield, N.J. He has served as Grand Historian of the Grand Lodge of New Jersey for several years, has presided over eight different Masonic bodies and is a member of over 40 Masonic organizations, research groups and societies and honorary memberships.

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Real Stone Masonry Dec. 16, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

This lecture will discuss the craft of practical stone carving and its relationship to Freemasonry.

Presenter: Morgan Dummitt is a professional sculptor in stone and bronze. He has studied internationally and exhibited across the country. He is currently a faculty member at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and Studio Incamminati and produces commissioned sculptures from his Philadelphia studio.

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MEMBERSHIP

An Inspiration to Others To say Brother Cameron Smith enjoys helping people is an understatement.

He has devoted decades of his life to giving back to others, whether it’s making frequent blood donations, doing mission work in Haiti, serving as a volunteer firefighter, donating a kidney to his nephew or being an active Freemason.

Recently, Cameron was recognized on the local news for helping an individual with cerebral palsy participate in a triathlon, which includes swimming, biking and running. The 60-yearold racer met 22-year-old Gabe Anderson at a 2016 event for Ainsley’s Angels of America, which promotes inclusion by helping individuals with disabilities participate in running road races, from 5K to marathon.

Cameron and Gabe started off small by participating in some 5K races, but in 2017, they completed the Upper Dublin Triathlon. This past May was the sixth time the two took part in the event, which is located at Cameron’s alma mater, Upper Dublin

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High School in Fort Washington, PA. Gabe sat in a raft while Cameron pulled it while swimming the first leg of the race. Then, Gabe shifted into a bicycle trailer that also converts to a running chair to complete the triathlon.

“Gabe has very limited use of his arms and legs, but still exhibits his excitement,” Cameron said.

“When we’re running, you can see in his face that he lights up. He loves it. I love it. It’s a lot of hard work to train for it, but it’s worth it.”

Cameron, who lives in Lafayette Hill, PA, spends several days a week at the gym. He can’t train with Gabe because Gabe’s family lives in Harleysville, so Camerson adapts his workouts to prepare. He places two 50-pound bags of stone in the conversion trailer attached to his bicycle or the running chair for the bike/run to simulate Gabe’s weight. If he’s training in a pool, a swim parachute creates similar resistance. “It’s certainly a

learning experience, but it works,” Cameron said. “For someone who does triathlons or trains for these kinds of races … there is a different type of training that occurs when you have to pull all that extra weight.

It definitely impacts what I do.”

During training season, Cameron, a recently retired research administrator at Thomas Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia, would make a deal with his boss to allow for a two-hour lunch

Pennsylvania Freemason

break to get in a full daily workout.

Then, he would put in an extra hour of work at the end of the day.

“It helped break up my day and actually do my job better,” he said.

For more than 27 years, Cameron has participated in 5K and 10K races for organ donor awareness, in numerous spring Olympic half triathlons and even a 140.6 mile full triathlon. He completed the New Jersey State Triathlon on July 15 with Gabe, coming in third place in the physically challenged division. In early September, he ran another triathlon and a week later, Cameron did the Marsh Creek spring triathlon with another Ainsley’s Angels buddy named Aaron.

The worthy cause hits home for him, as Cameron successfully donated a kidney to his nephew, Kyle, in 2022.

He is also a regular blood donor, having donated 150 pints of blood and 100 units of platelets since 1980. His name is even listed on Jefferson Hospital’s Wall of Fame.

“I’ve been on the organ donor list for a long time, but that started because of the blood donations,” Cameron said. “I had bleeding ulcers in high school and received a blood transfusion. I promised myself at some point I’d give back. I was a skinny runner and didn’t weigh enough to give blood until college, so once I could, I started giving blood.”

That’s when Cameron learned about being an organ donor and agreed to get tested. When he found out his nephew was on dialysis from kidney failure, he wanted to help. He learned he was a match and immediately volunteered to donate a kidney.

“It was a no-brainer for me. My

only concern was whether I would still be able to do triathlons,” Cameron said. “I just need to be more cognizant of hydrating now, because I only have one kidney.”

Each year, Cameron travels to southeastern Kentucky with his church to do a week of mission work, such as renovating homes in some of the country’s poorest areas. He has also done mission work in Haiti since 2015, replacing tents with sheds for those who lived through the earthquake of 2010 that killed 200,000 people.

“A lot of the housing was destroyed in the earthquake,” he said. “I went to Haiti again in 2017 and 2019 and was planning on going

in 2021, but COVID-19 and civil unrest [including kidnapping of mission workers] prevented it.”

Cameron spent years as a volunteer firefighter in Horsham, Harmonville, Spring Mill (water rescue unit) and Barren Hill (as a brigade member and administrator). Although he no longer fights fires, he still stays involved on the administrative side.

He also participated in a program at Jefferson Hospital, No One Dies Alone (NODA). When a patient is not expected to live more than 72 hours and has no family or friends who can be with them, Cameron keeps them company at their bedside.

Story continued on next page.

Autumn 2023

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MEMBERSHIP

Cameron has always been altruistic, participating in fundraisers and volunteer dance marathons at a young age.

When he was in the ninth grade, he asked his neighbors to sponsor him in a bike ride for charity. He ended up riding 96 miles on an old three-speed Sears bike, surprising everyone. He won first prize for raising the most money; the reward was a black and white television set. Cameron was hooked, not just because of the tangible item he received, but the impact he saw he could have on others.

“I started seeing the effect these funds were having on other people, and I just wanted to help,” he said. “I know there are people who give in a lot of ways. Some people will write a check or give their lives to something, like adopting a child.

That’s a real hero. That’s a lifetime. What I do is temporary, but the impact is huge, which I like.”

“Most of the time, [these people] can’t communicate, but studies show the last sense you lose is hearing, so even if they are not talking or moving, there’s a good chance they hear us and understand what we’re saying,” he said.

“Some NODA people sing. I like to read ‘Chicken Soup for the Soul’ books to them and try to find stories that resonate with their lives.”

Cameron first learned about Freemasonry through his friends at the firehouse. He is Past Secretary and Past Master of Fritz Lodge No. 308 in Conshohocken.

Soon after joining the fraternity, Cameron was stunned to learn that one of his four biological brothers had been a Freemason for several years, and another brother was looking to join himself.

Cameron received his undergraduate degree in accounting from Bloomsburg University and his master’s degree in public management from Carnegie Mellon University. Now that he’s newly retired, Cameron enjoys spending time with his family and playing Dungeons and Dragons (a role-playing game) with friends.

Cameron, who has twin daughters, welcomed his first grandchild, Morgan, on July 1. He has been married to his wife, Sandra, for 35 years. She supports all his volunteer work, albeit sometimes reluctantly. But she has come to terms with the fact that her husband likes to stay active.

“You’ll notice my lawn is not mowed – that’s the only drawback,” she joked. “All of his generosity comes first, but I’m certainly very proud of him. He does wonders for other people and is very, very kind.”

Read more about Cameron by scanning the QR code:

“My brother Dale and I drove to Ohio to watch my brother Roger get his third degree,” he said. “I was in contact with the Worshipful Master of his lodge, and they permitted us to raise him. It was really special.”

Being a Mason aligns perfectly with Cameron’s morals, values and commitment to serving others.

“I like the fellowship of like-minded gentlemen, to know when we’re having a conversation, there are no ulterior motives,” he said. “It’s about how to work together and help others.”

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Going the Distance for Charity and Past Master of Good Samaritan Lodge.

“I told him my idea, and he asked for a plan,” Matt said. “I developed a plan and decided the whole state should be involved, not just the district. The point of the walk was to meet new people, let them know about Freemasonry and dispel the thinking that we are a secret society.”

Brother Matthew R. Rancosky, Worshipful Master of Good Samaritan Lodge No. 336, Gettysburg, will be walking across Pennsylvania this fall to connect with Masons across the state and raise money for Pennsylvania DeMolay and the Pennsylvania Widows’ Guild.

The 265-mile journey will span about 10 days, starting on Sept. 30 in Connellsville, PA, and ending at the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia on Oct. 9. Matt hopes to raise at least $10,000 or more for Masonic charities.

“The idea just came to me one day – I’d seen other people make trips across the United States,” he said.

“I didn’t have time for that long of a trip because of work. I thought to myself, ‘How could I simplify this and turn it into something cool?’ And then I thought about walking across Pennsylvania.”

After getting the green light from his wife, Matt reached out to his mentor, Brother Darrin D. Catts, D.D.G.M.-42

Autumn

Matt has posted his planned walk route on his lodge’s Facebook page, which has grown from 700 followers to almost 1,250 over the past year, he said. He plans to stop and meet with other Freemasons along his route.

“I was invited by the current Grand Master [Jeffrey Wonderling] to stay at his home in Latrobe the night before the race,” Matt said. “After that, I hope to stay with different brothers or find lodging along the route. If people want to come out and walk with me, I’ll be doing live feeds on Facebook.”

Matt’s goal is to log about 30 miles a day. He has been getting in shape by going to the gym, completing long distance walks at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown and other locations and using a stair climber to prepare himself for any large hills or mountains he will have to climb. While preparing for his journey over the past year and a half, Matt has lost over 100 pounds, making his goal much easier to achieve.

“He approached our lodge with a great deal of energy,” Darrin said.

“I could tell early on in his Masonic journey that he was doing things for the right reasons and bringing fresh ideas. Matt wanted to make sure his efforts would support youth programs and the Widows’ Guild. These are important charities to the current Grand Master and to all of us.”

Matt has been a Mason since 2018, quickly moving through the ranks to become Worshipful Master.

“Being a Freemason has enabled me to do something bigger than myself,” he said. “After losing my dad when he was only 59, I realized nothing is a given in this world. Things can be taken away in a heartbeat. He always taught me, ‘If you’re going to do something, really do it.’”

For more information on Matthew’s walk, visit gettysburgfreemasons.org.

Darrin said he developed a close bond with Matthew almost immediately after he joined the fraternity.

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MEMBERSHIP

CYCLING ACROSS AMERICA More than 11 years ago, Brother Dave Romero, Long Beach Lodge No. 327, Grand Lodge of California, was obese, his cholesterol was dangerously high, and his doctor told him he was a “heart attack waiting to happen.”

Being very unhealthy, Dave remembered his promise to his wife and daughter to protect them with his life and realized he couldn’t fulfill that promise. So, Dave decided it was time to get healthy. He went on a diet and started exercising, including cycling, and the weight dropped dramatically. The first time he went for a ride, he could only bike two-and-a-half miles a day.

After a year and a half, he completed more than 200 miles in one day.

“There’s a verse in the Bible that says, ‘Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal,’” he said.

“I’m not a religious person, but that

passage stuck with me because it talks about charity, so I decided to combine my cycling with charity work.”

In 2019, Dave rode his bike from Long Beach to San Francisco over five days to raise money for the homeless, a cause that hits close to home for him.

As a young boy, Dave himself was homeless. He was raised in the slums of Manila, in the Philippines. He arrived in the United States 30 years ago.

“When I was growing up, you never asked your parents what was for lunch or dinner because you didn’t know if there would be a meal,” he said. “To get out of that situation, I needed to get educated, and I became an architect and moved to the states. When you’ve been through poverty and hardship, everything becomes a blessing.”

On the way back from San Francisco, Dave thought about his next endeavor.

He estimated it would take about month and a half to ride around 3,800 miles from California to New York.

Dave decided he would support Shriners Hospitals for Children International. That was a cause that equally resonated with him.

“When I was growing up, I learned I had an older sister who I never met, because as a toddler she got sick, and my parents did not have insurance to take care of her,” he said. “They rushed her to the nearest hospital but were denied care. They traveled from hospital to hospital, and in transit, my sister passed away.”

When Dave announced his plan to ride across the country, many people were doubtful because he wasn’t a professional cyclist. But he was very motivated to do charity work and represent his Masonic lodge, so he pushed forward.

“I believe the only thing you can control in your life is your word of honor,” he said. “Once I say something, I need to do it. Once I told my family, they automatically supported me because they knew I was not going to stop until I was done.”

Dave credits his wife, Ana, his daughter, Vianae, and his son-inlaw, Michael, for helping to build his confidence. He also credits his fellow brothers for helping him with his cause, especially Worshipful Master Ronald Pagdanganan of Pacific Rim Lodge.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

“When I attended a Christmas party, he overheard me talking to people about my ride,” Dave said. “He offered to accompany me, driving behind me to New York and carrying my things. He didn’t even want to get reimbursed for gas expenses. It was a blessing.”

On May 13, 2023, Dave began his journey in California and completed about 100 miles a day until he reached New York, which was the official end of the ride.

Dave was invited to the 150th anniversary of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania by Grand Master Jeffrey Wonderling through R.W. Past Grand Master Ray Dietz, who hosted them for the night when they were in Pittsburgh. “It was an amazing experience,” he said.

“I give out my QR codes wherever I visit,” Dave said.

“You can scan the code and donate money. Everything counts, even a dollar. I’m not going to stop raising money. As long as I can pedal, I will keep doing it.”

Follow Dave’s journey on Instagram: @davecyclingacrossamerica Use the QR code to donate to the fundraiser or visit donate.lovetotherescue.org

So far, Dave has raised more than $12,000 for Shriners Hospitals, and he isn’t stopping any time soon. ”This fundraising ride was a charity event of Long Beach Masonic Lodge No. 327, not just Dave Romero,” he said. “The lodge helped promote the ride and donate money toward it.

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MEMBERSHIP

LODGE SPONSORS

Shop with a Cop Last year, Brother James “Jim” Barnes, Oakdale Lodge No. 669, was looking to donate to an organization that benefited children in need during the holidays.

As head of the charity committee, he was seeking an opportunity where his lodge could make a big impact.

“We had some good ideas, but nothing worked logistically,” Jim said. “I went online and Googled ‘local children’s charities holidays’ and the national ‘Shop With a Cop’ program popped up.”

Jim reached out to North Fayette Chief of Police Donald J. Cokus, Jr., who spearheads the local Oakdale program, and a partnership was born. The North Fayette Police Department was looking for sponsors for their annual Shop with a Cop charity event, where local police officers and chaperones take underprivileged children on shopping sprees for Christmas presents. Each child is provided with gift cards that are purchased solely by donations from local organizations, businesses and individuals.

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“For some children, this is the only Christmas they’ll have,” Donald said. “We’ve had an overwhelming response to the program and always look forward to seeing how many kids we can positively affect each year.”

The local school district typically selects about 50 children based on need, with each child receiving a $400 gift card to spend wherever and however they want, while being guided to make wise decisions. More than $20,000 was raised for the program, held on Dec. 17, 2022; about $5,000 of it from Oakdale lodge, Donald said.

“We’re very thankful for the donation we received from the Masonic lodge, along with business owners in the community, private donations and all the volunteers across the board,” Donald said.

“The children involved with the program come from unfortunate financial circumstances. We understand that and want to do our best to provide some light in their lives. Coming from a restricted financial situation as a child, I can sympathize with our

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Jim said the program was rewarding for lodge members.

He chaperoned a child whose mother was seriously ill and could not take her shopping for the holidays. The child told Jim that shopping with him was the “best day ever.”

“There are gifts everywhere at the end of the day because the children are loaded up,” Jim said. “The only sad thing is you wonder after the event is over what the child’s future will be like and if they’ll be ok.”

“It’s a really great event,” Jim said. “We also invite all the donors to come, so they see where their money is going. Everybody interacts, and we get an appreciation for how fortunate we all are. We hope to help support this program next Christmas and well into the future.”

The next Shop with a Cop event is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 16. Donald plans to create a flier and hand deliver it to all the donors so they see his face and know that their money matters. There are typically between 75 and 100 donors involved with the program.

participants. And knowing that feeling, I am protective of them. We keep our program ‘low-key’ to not create a negative social situation with other kids, which is unfortunately commonplace in current times.”

Nine brothers and two wives from Oakdale Lodge joined the group of over 50 volunteers who made the event a success.

The program started with a donated breakfast at the North Fayette Community Center, where the children and the shopping chaperones were assembled. After several hours of shopping, everyone returned to the community center, where the children were reunited with their parents to show off their new Christmas presents. The parents do not accompany the children during the shopping trip, although some children choose to buy presents for their parents during their spree.

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“The donations are the backbone of our program and mean everything to us,” Donald said. “We are trying to make a positive impact in the lives of our youth.

They are our future. This program cannot be successful without the generosity of incredible organizations like Oakdale Lodge. The lodge single-handedly covered the cost of 13 children in 2022. It is a humbling moment to know that they all care so much.”

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MEMBERSHIP

Masons Help Widows and “Fight the Blight” As helping Masonic widows has been a focus of R.W. Grand Master Jeffrey M. Wonderling’s term, members and lodges have pursued many new and continued efforts to support and honor Masonic widows over the last two years. One of the newest, the Widows Helpers program, comes from Brother Matt Williams, Shidle Lodge No. 601, Irwin. The program has helped several of District 30’s Masonic widows with home maintenance and repairs. Projects have included weeding flower beds, trimming trees, fixing a broken door and lock and helping replace a leaking roof.

Shidle Lodge was an ideal starting place for this type of project, because, as the 10-12 members who got together one Saturday to paint the lodge discovered, their lodge has “a representative from every trade you could imagine.” Their lodge and district were already reaching out to Masonic widows on a social level, so, according to Matt, this was just a natural extension of what was already being done through that outreach.

Matt brings his professional experiences as a contractor and founder of the nonprofit, Fight the Blight, Inc., which helps older homeowners, those with disabilities and others struggling to keep up with their property needs to maintain their homes through debris removal, light repairs, painting and lawn care.

Fight the Blight has provided $20,000 worth of work in just over a year and was chosen as the Westmoreland Association of Realtors 2022 Charity of the Year. Widows Helpers is also personal for Matt, whose mother was in a similar position to many of the

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widows helped by the program after her husband’s passing. Her husband had assumed many responsibilities during their marriage – banking, car maintenance, etc. – and she now had to learn or take over those things.

“I never realized how much she relied on him. I wish there would have been a program like this available for her,” he said.

“Looking back, I wish I would have done it sooner,” he said. “I wouldn’t have done any of this had I not become a Mason.”

For more information on getting involved with the Widows Helpers program, call 724-739-3785 and/or email widowshelpers@gmail.com.

With both Fight the Blight and Widows Helpers, Matt hopes to expand to the rest of the state, growing their resources and volunteer base all the way. Widows Helpers has already served widows outside of Shidle Lodge, with referrals from other 30th District lodges and members for some of their projects.

The biggest challenge they currently face is contacting widows, as some contact information on file for them, if it exists, is out of date.

Matt became a Mason in fall 2019. His grandfather and several other relatives were Masons, although they never talked about the fraternity together.

Through Freemasonry, he says, he learned how important community support and involvement are, going from not being involved in any community organizations, to being an active member of his local Rotary International chapter, Chamber of Commerce and the Irwin Business and Professional Association. He is currently serving as Senior Warden for Shidle Lodge and anticipates his term as Worshipful Master next year.

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Masonic Children’s Home More ways to stay connected: Submit your lodge event to reach visitors on the Grand Lodge website and social media: PAGrandLodge.org/submit-event For The Pennsylvania Freemason magazine submissions, visit: PAGrandLodge.org/freemason-magazine

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MEMBERSHIP

ARE WE REACHING?

by D. Todd Ballenger, D.D.G.M. - District 55

“Be a lamp, or a lifeboat, or a ladder. Help someone’s soul heal. Walk out of your house like a shepherd.” ~ Rumi Over the past 10 years as a District Deputy Grand Master, I have attempted various methods of contacting missing brethren on our lodge rolls. I say “missing,” as that is the most common way of identifying brothers we’ve lost touch with somehow. Perhaps they moved, changed their number or just lost interest. Still, we persist in our efforts to maintain member relationships because it is our fraternal duty to care for each other and our families in every way possible.

But if truth be told, that is only one side of the story.

Responsibility, you see, is not only a one-way street. Often, our members remain unaided because no one in the lodge knew there was an issue or that something had changed.

Admittedly, there are circumstances where a member doesn’t have control over the decision due to health or family reasons, but I have heard others say, “I just didn’t think it was important enough,” or “I didn’t want to be a bother.”

We should never be ashamed to reach out for help. Our fraternity is full of brothers ready and willing to lend a hand.

Goodwill works in both directions.

I’ve often heard that the most difficult word to learn in Freemasonry is “no.”

I respectfully submit that the second most difficult is the word “help.” Why

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do so many of us find it hard to ask for help? To answer that, I’d like to share the story of a brother who has recently come to the conclusion that “help” is not your ordinary four-letter word. In fact, it’s not a bad word at all.

to me that I was actually quite scared not only of my situation, but also that none of my friends – my brothers – knew. Something about this wasn’t right. It just didn’t seem fair – not to me, but to them.

The story begins with a diagnosis of stage three cancer on Feb. 13. The brother was more than a bit shellshocked walking out of the doctor’s office and across the parking lot to his car with his wife. I know this is true because the brother in this story is me. A somewhat startling reveal, I know, but I believe that what I share from this very personal viewpoint may help someone else.

It struck me that I cannot be the only person to have ever experienced these feelings or situation. While I would rush to someone else’s aid, here I was hiding my own condition from the very people who would unhesitatingly do the same for me. Why would I try and keep all this to myself?

My first inclination was to tell absolutely no one outside of immediate family and those who had a definite need to know. Why? I think it was because the nature of any illness (or family or financial difficulty) is intensely personal. I wanted to keep silent on the matter; ignore it; deny it into oblivion and carry on as if it did not exist, and to a large extent I did exactly that. I made all my official visitations to my lodges and carried on with business as usual. Treatment required major surgery and a lengthy recovery time, which I was able to schedule between June and August so my fraternal duties would be the least impacted. I almost felt as if I wouldn’t need to tell anyone at all.

But as I was completing all of the preoperative tests, scans, consultations and preparations (who knew there was so much poking, prodding and paperwork required prior to a procedure? Geez!), it occurred

If I’m honest, my top answer would be pride. I didn’t want to acknowledge a weakness, to appear frail. I didn’t want anyone to lose faith in me because I may be “compromised” in some way.

That’s an awful lot of “I’s.” That selfpride was a huge stumbling block to asking for help. I needed to remember that my brothers were going to see me for who I was, not any of these perceived images I was projecting on myself simply because I was sick. I realized I should stop being selfish and let them help in exactly the same way I would want to help someone else.

Embarrassment was another factor in my initial silence. For some strange reason, I felt as if I had done something wrong by contracting this disease. I felt I had failed in some way and didn’t want to be seen as weak and broken. For more than a month after the initial surgery, I was home, but with tubes and lines sticking out of me, feeling half-human at best.

Recovery from any procedure is hard, both physically and mentally.

Rather than shutting my friends and

Pennsylvania Freemason

brothers out, letting them know I was recovering allowed them to send their support. The cards I received, text messages and phone calls lifted my spirits. When I didn’t want visitors, even my closest friends respected that. But when things got dark and lonely and I was feeling beaten, each one of those messages was a beacon of light that gave me strength. I needed that.

The final reason for my initial silence was the overall fear of admitting that I had a pretty serious problem. But I realized I did not have to battle this nasty disease alone. Besides, my wife and my kids were also greatly impacted.

Remember, a brother’s help doesn’t stop with the man in the apron – it extends to the family, as well. Who was I to deny them assistance?

Amanda Palmer. in her book “The Art of Asking for Help” or “How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Let People Help” brings home the point: “From what I’ve seen, it isn’t so much the act of asking that paralyzes us – it’s what lies beneath: the fear of being vulnerable, the fear of rejection, the fear of looking needy or weak. The fear of being seen as a burdensome member of the community instead of a productive one. It points, fundamentally, to our separation from one another.”

And that, my brothers, is the key.

This separation is on both sides of the fraternal equation. Yes, we have

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an obligation as lodges to try and keep track of our brethren whom we do not see or may have lost contact with. But it is equally incumbent on ailing brethren (myself included) or those who may be experiencing difficult times emotionally or financially to reach out – despite all the perceived misgivings – and ask for help from those whom you should be able to trust the most.

Remember, even outside of your lodge, as Pennsylvania Masons, you have access to the Masonic Outreach Program, which offers financial help as well as legal advice and other forms of social assistance to brethren who need it. The Widows’ Guild is also available to the wives of our deceased members.

We have access to people ready and willing to give their time, assistance and understanding to those who may be hurting.

Brothers, asking for help is never easy, regardless of the circumstance.

But consider this: if you can’t do it for yourself, then ask for the sake of your loved ones who depend on you.

This is the lesson I’ve learned, and as I continue to recover, I know that the journey will be easier with the support of my friends and brothers.

Remember, help is always available in this fraternity if we all just try a little more to reach out for each other and make those connections.

Together, brethren, we’ve got this.

Online Edition PaGrandLodge.org/magazine

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MEMBERSHIP

Preparing for the Future and Embracing the Past Using the skills and talents of Brother Jonathan Edwards, Lodge No. 61, Wilkes-Barre, recently created a video showcasing its members, their passions for joining the fraternity and their occupations. It highlights a wide range of reasons and careers, and it’s no secret this is what makes the lodge special: men of different backgrounds coming together to share a common experience.

Some like the camaraderie, while others like the opportunity for improvement surrounded by those with similar goals. History, charity and education are also priorities for the brothers featured in the video.

“I like being a Mason because it gives me the opportunity to better myself, better my community and be around other people trying to do the same,” Brother Justin Ashford said in the video.

Brother Lewis Strunk Jr., Worshipful Master, views the friendship among its more than 150 members as one of the lodge’s strongest attributes.

“I’d describe our lodge as progressive, brotherly, caring and giving,” he said.

“What makes our lodge special is our support for each other and how we welcome and mentor new members.”

The passion for the fraternity showcased in the video is shared with prospective members, leading to a steady flow of new brethren joining their lodge, including nine in 2022 and seven so far in 2023.

“When we talk to potential candidates, they can feel and see the zeal our members have for our lodge and Masonry in general,” Lewis said.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Current members enjoy a variety of educational, familyoriented and community-centered events and programs.

They frequently hold memorials for Past Masters and members who have passed away. For family night, members and their families go out to dinner together. They took a bus trip to visit the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia on Sept. 30.

To give back to their community, brothers hold food and clothing drives and make charitable donations.

They collaborate with St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, in Wilkes-Barre, knowing that historically, Brother Andrew Beaumont, a past member of Lodge No. 61, was an organizer of the church in 1817.

Several members took part and helped sponsor trick-or-treating in downtown Wilkes-Barre, while providing information about the fraternity to interested parents.

The lodge is also coordinating a blood drive.

While focused on the future, members also remember and honor the history of their lodge. They have a few cherished pieces of the past in their collection, including a Minutes book dating December 1799 that notes the untimely passing of Brother George Washington.

“To me, it was very moving,” Lewis said of seeing the book. “Looking at that passage about George Washington was very poignant. Thinking about this event having just occurred, and how this was probably shocking and sad news for the brethren, gave me an immense appreciation for the age and history of our lodge.”

The idea for a Masonic lodge in the area was first proposed in 1827. At the time, Lodge No. 61 met in the upper floor of the Luzerne County Courthouse. In 1831, the lodge relocated to the newly erected Beaumont Inn at the corner of Union and Franklin streets. The building plans were placed on hold due to the anti-Masonic sentiment at the time. In 1908, the land from 23-27 North Franklin St. was purchased for the sum of $22,500.

The temple cornerstone was laid June 12, 1916, by R.W. Grand Master Louis Arthur Waltres. Masonic groups which currently meet at the Masonic Temple, in addition to Lodge No. 61, are Landmark Lodge No. 442, Fidelity Lodge No. 474, Shekinah Royal Arch Chapter 182, Mt. Horeb Council 34, Dieu Le Veut Commandery 45 Knights Templar, Golden Rule Lodge Prince Hall Masons and Susquehanna Chapter, Order of DeMolay.

From the 1800s to 2023, the lodge found a new location, saw membership grow and shrink and adapted to societal changes, but the brethren’s focus has always remained the same.

As Jonathan shared in the video, “It’s a group of people who have each other’s back.”

Members take great pride in their Masonic Temple on North Franklin Street in Wilkes-Barre (pictured on p. 18). It was designed by prominent architects Welsh, Sturdevant and Poggi. Construction began in 1915 and was completed in 1917.

Check out the lodge’s video.

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PHILANTHROPY

GRAND MASTER’S BENEFIT RALLY Hosted by the Widows’ Sons Pittsburgh Tyrians Chapter, Grand Master Jeffrey Wonderling and his wife, Sharon, spent their 35th wedding anniversary with the Widows Sons at the Grand Master’s Benefit Rally in Pittsburgh. Members rode 400+ bikes over the city’s bridges, followed by a four-band concert at the Syria Shrine, headlined by Molly Hatchet. Proceeds from the event benefit the Masonic Widows’ Guild. For more information on the Widows’ Sons, visit widowssonsinternational.com.

Grand Master Jeffrey Wonderling was made an honorary member of the Widows’ Sons on Aug. 4

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Pennsylvania Freemason

CAR AUCTIONED FOR CHARITY When Brother Eric Welke, of Downingtown, passed away on Feb. 3 at 71 years of age, his last wish was that his ’31 Chevy be auctioned and the proceeds be given to charity.

A member of Oxford Lodge No. 353 since 2017, Eric was an active retired Army Special Forces soldier who had served in Vietnam and on the Lodge’s Veteran Committee. Over the past five years, Oxford Lodge No. 353 has donated to the Coatesville VA Medical Center every year at Christmas time and on special occasions for specific veteran needs.

The Coatesville VA houses veterans with PTSD and helps to rehabilitate them back into the work force.

On July 28, Brother Eric T. Downs, D.D.G.M.-5, along with three brothers from Oxford Lodge No. 353 and two Special Forces members, assisted in honoring Eric’s last wish by selling his car at Mecum Auctions in Harrisburg for $15,000. After fees, the $14,000 profit was split between the Shriners Hospital for Children and District Veterans Charities, with each receiving $7,000. Eric’s memory will live on through the lives impacted thanks to his charitable donations.

FAMILY NIGHT AT THE PHILLIES On Sept. 9, Masonic District 5 held its first Brotherhood and Family Night at the Phillies. Even the rain could not dampen the fellowship and food enjoyed at the pre-game tailgate. As a bonus, the Phillies donated several raffle items, including an Alec Bohm autographed bat. Funds raised will support the district’s annual Widows’ Luncheon in April.

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PHILANTHROPY

Embodying Masonic Values Art Contest

WINNERS ANNOUNCED Congratulations to the winners of the 2023 “Embodying Masonic Values” art competition sponsored by The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania!

5 Both amateur and professional artists, ages 18 and older, were invited to submit original entries displaying a visual interpretation of Freemasonry in Pennsylvania. Forty-three entries were submitted this year. Jurors included Brother Travis Simpkins, artist; John McDaniel, artist; and Elaine Erne, artist/teacher.

The Grand Exhibition Gala was held at the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia on Friday, Oct. 6, featuring a cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception, live music, announcement of winners and a silent auction of selected artwork.

The annual Grand Exhibition is open to the public to view until Nov. 11 and also can be viewed online at PAMasonicTemple.org/open-art-competition-2023.

Some Grand Exhibition artists have chosen to offer their works for sale, with 80% of the sale value going to them and 20% to The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania. All pieces are subject to prior sale. Prices do not include shipping, handling and insurance. Buyers may choose to pick up their purchases at the Masonic Temple, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia. Please contact the Gift Shop at 215-988-1977, Tuesday - Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., to make a purchase and arrangements.

BEST IN CATEGORY $200 Award

Oil: “Royal Arch” by Juan Sepulveda

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Three-dimensional Ceramic: “Novus Ordo Seclorum” by Heather Cornelius Drawing and Print-making: “Bee a Mason” by Margaret Thompson Water-Based Medium: “Masonic Life” by Valerie Lang

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Digital Imagery: “Circling the Square” by Hayato Matsushita

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GRAND MASTER’S PRIZE $500 Award

“Passing Moments” by Jenny Chernansky

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BEST IN SHOW $1,000 Award

“Wisdom Sits” by Stephen Lemak

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PHILANTHROPY

6th Annual Grand Lodge Sporting Clays Results Thanks to our generous sponsors, these events netted over $33,000 to support Grand Lodge Operations Shoot Sponsor: Mill Creek Capital Investments Lunch Sponsor: Bernzott Capital RBC Wealth Management Breakfast Sponsors: Christenson Investment Partners USI Insurance Brokers David Hegeman and Neil Brown 5-Stand Sponsors: Aristotle Capital Management Catering by Design King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346 Lincoln Financial Group National Investment Service Packworld USA Station Sponsors: 5th Masonic District 8th Masonic District 10th Masonic District 30th Masonic District

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John T. Brobst, Jr., D.D.G.M.-58 Brooks Development Group Charles A. Cagle, CPA Robert F. Dunkle, P.D.D.G.M.-38 Fox’s Glass Co., LLC Josh Freeman Green Leaf Lodge No. 561 Informed Systems, Inc. James Cochran Lodge No. 614 Stephen Long MMC Land Management MacIlrath Insurance Murray Insurance Oakdale Lodge No. 669 Packard Environmental Service Roger Perose Porter Lodge No. 284 REGO Enterprises Bruce Robinson Harry Rutter Smith Elliott & Kearns CPAs & Advisors Robert Sutcliffe, P.M., RIR7 Regis Synan Unity Printing

Thank you to Brother Alan R. Beidel, P.M., Cumberland Valley Lodge No. 315, Shippensburg, for organizing the Lehigh Valley shoot, and to Brother Don Edmunds, P.M., and members of Saucon Lodge No. 469, Coopersburg, for preparing and serving the food.

Save the dates for next year’s events: Hunting Hills Shooting Preserve, Dilner: Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 Lehigh Valley Sporting Clays, Coplay: Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024

Pennsylvania Freemason

Growing the Transplant Family After healing from his transplant, Tom was eager to pay it forward and help others. Bill got him involved with organ donor support groups and charities, including the Transplant Recipients International Organization (TRIO) Philadelphia, of which Bill is President, and the Gift of Life Donor Dash. Tom and his brothers also support the Gift of Life’s Howie’s House in Philadelphia, which provides lodging and support services for family members of patients awaiting organ transplants in Philadelphia hospitals. A home cooked meal is provided every day by a civic organization, including local Masonic lodges.

Left-right: Brothers Tom Pentony, Jim Hauss and Bill Soloway

Brother Tom Pentony, Richmond-Solomon Lodge No. 3, Philadelphia, was introduced to Brother Bill Soloway, Executive Director of the Masonic Blood+Organ Donor Program, in January 2022. Four months later, Tom underwent a life-saving liver transplant.

“I had been working to get on the transplant list,” Tom said.

“Once you get on the list, you’re still in limbo. You don’t know when or if you’ll get a liver. My wife and I had been going through this process for two years, and we needed help. You can’t do it alone. Bill made sure we were going in the right direction and doing the right things.”

That support did not stop once Tom’s transplant finally came to fruition. More than 16 months later, Tom and Bill still check in with each other regularly as part of the program. Bill advocates for and accompanies individuals to their doctor’s appointments and checkups both pre- and post-transplant. Bill received his own heart transplant in 2015 and is a member of Frankford-Brown Lodge No. 751, also in Philadelphia.

“The transplant is a treatment; it’s not a cure,” Bill said.

“Even though patients can resume normal life, they’re still on immunosuppressant medications and get checkups every six months. I’m always available if they need to talk or an issue comes up and they need guidance. Whenever I’m in the area where they live, we make it a point to get together for a meal. We consider ourselves extended family.”

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Bill introduced Tom to Brother Elmer James “Jim” Hauss, Mitchell Lodge No. 81, Philadelphia, on Jan. 23, 2023. The two quickly bonded. Jim had been waiting for a liver for a year and a half. He couldn’t work, he owed rent and was in bad shape both physically and emotionally. To assist with his medical bills, Bill and Jim spearheaded a fundraiser for Jim at a local bar, raising $4,000. Jim received a new liver about six months later.

“It was important for me to help him [Jim] through the process because I knew what he was going through, as I’d been through it.” Tom said. “I tried to help him out, show him what to eat and how to manage his symptoms to lead a better life.”

Today, Jim is grateful for his second chance at life. He has a bright new outlook, thanks to the support from Bill, Tom and the Masonic fraternity as a whole.

“The biggest thing for me … I’m not an open person,” Jim said. “I didn’t even tell my family what was happening to me. Everything was new to me. Tom is the funniest guy in the world. When I was in the hospital, he was right there with me through my surgery. Bill and Tom have been with me through everything. What they did for me, I can’t wait to do for someone else. That’s how the journey works. It doesn’t stop just because you get a liver. It goes on and on.”

The Masonic Blood+Organ Donor Program has helped over 60 Masons or their family members in need of a lifesaving transplant. For more information on how you can join the program or how you and/or your lodge can help, visit MasonicBloodandOrganDonors.org or call 215-988-1958.

MasonicBloodandOrganDonors.org

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PHILANTHROPY

PA DEMOLAY STATE CONVENTION NEW STATE MASTER COUNCILOR INSTALLED Fun Fore All Family Fun Park; two hours of jumping, climbing and swinging fun at Urban Air Adventure Park; four hours of paint ball at Three Rivers Paintball Park; and a special 100th Anniversary Celebration that included an evening of interaction, education and inspiration with the Steel City Improv Theater.

Pennsylvania DeMolay held its annual convention July 14 - 16 at the Doubletree by Hilton PittsburghCranberry in Mars, PA. There were many highlights of the weekend for the 60 DeMolays who attended: gokarting, mini golf, bumper cars and arcade games at

Special guests attending the weekend included R.W. Grand Master “Dad” Jeffrey Wonderling and his wife, “Mom” Sharon, both of whom are advisors for Westmoreland Chapter that meets in Greensburg; DeMolay Grand Master and “Dad” Terry Peters, and his wife, “Mom” Evonne, from Pleasanton, CA; and International Congress Secretary River Peatman of British Columbia.

During the Saturday business session, Gary Weyandt, III, (kneeling at altar) of Westmoreland Chapter, was elected and installed as State Master Councilor. A team of Past State Master Councilors performed the ceremony, including Curtis R. Rasuchenberger (not pictured); and (left - right): Ryan Kraus, Tyler Moyer, Cole Summerfield, Jacob Beers and Justin Killian.

PHOTOS FROM OUR SUMMER PROGRAMS!

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PMYF.org

Pennsylvania Freemason

PMYF 2024

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES The Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation (PMYF) needs your help! We’re in the midst of our 2024 Scholarship Application season, which runs until March 15, 2024, and we want your help in growing participation in this exciting opportunity for undergraduate students. Last year, 105 applications were received from students representing 42 counties, and our goal is to grow the number of applications submitted, as well as the counties that are touched by our program. Please see the map below for the 2023 distribution of applications and the amounts awarded to students who reside in those counties. Over $160,000 in scholarships was awarded.

a present or former member of one of the Masonic-related youth groups; or a resident or graduate of the Masonic Children’s Home. The applicant must be a high school graduate or a high school senior who is pursuing higher education. Applicants must have a 3.0 GPA, and the grants are only applicable to undergraduate tuition and fees.

Applications must be postmarked by March 15, 2024.

The application for the PMYF Scholarship and a Scholarship Resource Guide is available at www.pmyf.org by clicking the “Scholarships” button. The Resource Guide lists over 50 different scholarships that are available this year. If you would prefer a copy of the guide or application be mailed directly to you or your student, please contact Brother Dave Berry, Executive Director of the PMYF, via email at dwberry@pmyf.org or phone 717-367-1536 ext. 4.

Basic eligibility for a PMYF Scholarship requires that an applicant be a member in good standing of a Pennsylvania Masonic Lodge, his child, step-child, grandchild, greatgrandchild, sibling or dependent (as defined by the IRS); or

Youth Foundation 2023 Scholarship Distribution County-by-County 2

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$3,000

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$3,500

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$7,500

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$2,000

1

0

0

3

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$2,000

$2,000

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$3,000

1

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$3,500

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$3,500

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$2,000

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The Best Move

Ruth with her great-granddaughter

Ruth Fennimore and her husband, Brother Bob, moved to Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill in March 2021, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the couple settled in a one-bedroom apartment, Bob, who is 89, was moved to health care more than a year ago. Ruth, who is 86, did not feel that she could take care of him anymore on her own.

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maintenance and could focus on Bob’s needs.

“It was the best move I ever made [coming here],” she said. “I have a meal. I have help if I need it. If I need to speak to someone about an issue, they come right away. I’m on the same floor as the health care living room. It has worked out very well.”

“He would try to get out of bed and fall,” she said. “He also suffers from dementia, and it was progressing. The amazing nurses would come and help him up and take his blood pressure. Finally, they said he needed to go to health care, and they were right. That’s the best place for him now.”

Bob had a tough time adjusting to health care at first, because he was very independent. But the nurses and aides were wonderful about helping him through the transition, Ruth said.

Before coming to Masonic Village, Ruth and Bob lived in a five-bedroom home in East Norriton. Ruth was looking for a place where she didn’t have to do any

“He has a private room now, which helps a lot,” she said.

“There are several aides who really like him and tend to him, and he responds to that, which is great.”

MasonicVillages.org

Pennsylvania Freemason

Ruth and Bob

Bob and Ruth both come from a long line of Masons and members of Eastern Star. Bob is a longtime member of a lodge in Massachusetts, where the couple lived for decades. Eventually, he transferred to Pennsylvania for work and continued paying dues, but he never joined a lodge here. He joined the Shriners and other Masonic organizations. Ruth became active with the Order of the Eastern Star in 1975, eventually becoming matron of Radiant Chapter No. 96 in East Norriton. Bob was elected as associate patron. Bob has been a member of the North Pennsman Barbershop Chorus, an award-winning a cappella chorus in Lansdale, PA, for more than 30 years.

“If we all lived by the teachings of the Masonic Order, we’d be in a much better place,” Ruth said. “I try to instill in my children to be good to people, to care about each other and to live your life in a good way.”

Ruth and Bob have two daughters and two sons. One of their daughters, Suellen, lives in Norristown and visits Ruth often with her great-granddaughter, Vivane, who is 7. The couple have seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, with one on the way.

Ruth and Bob have been married 57 years. They first met when Bob was stationed in Massachusetts as a private in the Army Security Agency (ASA). He also served in Korea.

Ruth used to visit the base with her co-workers to go dancing with the men. That’s how they found each other.

“He would stay overnight at my house,” Ruth said. “He always joked he married me because he couldn’t marry my mother. The two of them were very fond of each other.”

Ruth has enjoyed her time at Masonic Village. She recently met two women who are also Eastern Star members, which made her happy, as they were able to reminisce.

“I would definitely recommend Masonic Village to other people,” she said. “They do very nice things here.”

For more information on the five Masonic Village locations across the state, visit MasonicVillages.org.

Ruth visits Bob every day, in the afternoon before she eats lunch and then in the evening after dinner, when she puts him to bed.

“Most of the time, he remembers who I am,” she said. “Sometimes, he’ll tell me to ‘call Ruth and ask her to come by.’ And I say I will.”

Bob enjoys participating in health care activities.

He recently painted a picture that “floored” Ruth because she didn’t know he could paint. He plays bingo and trivia, often answering questions that even Ruth doesn’t know the answer to.

Masonic Children's Home youth and staff

Autumn 2023

Online Edition PaGrandLodge.org/magazine

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The Season of Giving 4 Ways to Support Your Favorite Masonic Charity

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Join the Cornerstone Circle Program Authorize a specified amount of money to be electronically transferred directly from your checking account or credit card monthly. This is the easiest form of giving, and a year-end statement makes tax preparation easy. Call 1-800-599-6454 or visit MasonicChartiesPa.org to join.

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Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) If you are 70½ or older, you can use your IRA to support the mission of a Masonic charity. Call 1-800-599-6454 and ask for our QCD planning kit or to speak with a gift planner and reduce your tax obligation.

Visit MasonicChartiesLegacy.org for more information.

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Year-End Cash Gift A year-end gift will benefit your favorite charity immediately!

Visit MasonicCharitiesPa.org to make your gift.

Charitable Gift Annuity (CGA) A CGA is a great way to support your favorite Masonic Charity while also receiving significant benefits in return. The minimum age for a single beneficiary is 65, and for two-life plans, ages 65 and 55 (minimum $5,000). See rate table below. After a lifetime of payouts, any remaining funds automatically support the mission.

Call 1-800-599-6454 to request an illustration today!

FOR ONE LIFE

NEW Higher Rates!

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PMYF.org

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FOR TWO LIVES

Age

Rate

Age

Rate

65

5.4%

55 & 65

4.3%

70

5.9%

70 & 70

5.2%

75

6.6%

75 & 80

6.1%

77

7%

85 & 85

7.7%

81

7.8%

85 & 90

8.3%

85

8.7%

90 & 90

9.4%

90+

9.7%

90 & 95

9.5%

Pennsylvania Freemason

LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT GIFT THIS

Holiday Season?

The Masonic Library & Museum of Pennsylvania Gift Shop offers apparel, books, ties, jewelry, glassware, wallets, auto emblems, holiday ornaments and many other meaningful gifts.

Visit the online store today (or pass the link along to a loved one with a “subtle” hint): MasonicMuseumGifts.com Call 215-988-1977 with any questions.

Farm Fresh

for the Holidays!

Give the perfect gift! When ordering a gift box: •

Choose delicious fruit butters & preserves from catalog listings.

•

We will select the best apple varieties available, unless otherwise specified.

•

Jarred goods may be replaced with many of our other products. Prices may vary; please call for details.

•

Gift certificates are also available.

Customized gift boxes are available year ‘round. However, those containing fruit are only available Sept. - March. Shipping costs vary.

For details, please call 717-367-4520, or order online.

| MVFarmMarket.com

CONSIDER A QCD TODAY! Maximize Your Charitable Impact ...

Benefit from the Advantages a QCD Provides Brother Benjamin Franklin coined the phrase “a penny saved is a penny earned.” And Albert Einstein noted that “the most powerful force in the universe is compounding interest.”

If you take their advice to heart, you may be interested in

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considering a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD).

With diligent savings and the help of tax deferral, you may have seen your traditional retirement accounts

(RMDs), even if you don’t need the RMDs to cover your living expenses. RMDs are included in your income and may cause you to be taxed at higher rates.

If you are at least 73 years of age, the IRS allows you

itemize deductions or if your deductions are phased out because of your income level.

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You have the flexibility to time your QCDs through

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If you are married and file a joint tax return, the

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And beginning in 2023, individuals will be allowed to make

grow substantially. But once you reach 70½ years of age, you will be required to take minimum distributions

You obtain the tax benefit even if you do not

regular installments or by one or more QCDs.

limit is increased to $200,000 each year.

a QCD of up to $50,000 to establish a life income gift, such as a charitable gift annuity or charitable remainder trust.

to donate up to $100,000 each year directly from your retirement accounts to a charity. This may have several benefits for you and your charity of choice:

If you would like to discuss options for optimizing your donation to your favorite Masonic charity while avoiding additional tax burdens, we would be

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You maximize the charitable impact

happy to assist you! Contact the Office of Mission

since it is not reduced by the income

Advancement and Development at 1-800-599-

taxes you would pay on the RMDs.

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6454 or giving@masoniccharitiespa.org.

You reduce your income tax liability since QCDs are excluded from your income.

MasonicCharitiesLegacy.org

Financial information about Masonic Charities can be obtained by contacting us at 1-800-599-6454. In addition, Masonic Charities is required to file financial information with several states. Colorado: Colorado residents may obtain copies of registration and financial documents from the office of the Secretary of State, (303) 894-2680, http://www.sos.state.co.us/. Florida: SC No. 00774, A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE, WITHIN THE STATE, 1-800-HELP-FLA. Georgia: full and fair description of the programs and activities of Masonic Charities and its financial statement are available upon request at the address indicated above.

Illinois: Contracts and reports regarding Masonic Charities are on file with the Illinois Attorney General. Maryland: For the cost of postage and copying, documents and information filed under the Maryland charitable organizations laws can be obtained from the Secretary of State, Charitable Division, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401, (800) 825-4510. Michigan: MICS No. 11796 Mississippi: The official registration and financial information of Masonic Charities may be obtained from the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office by calling 1-888-236-6167. New Jersey: INFORMATION FILED WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL CONCERNING THIS CHARITABLE SOLICITATION AND THE PERCENTAGE OF CONTRIBUTIONS RECEIVED BY THE CHARITY DURING THE LAST REPORTING PERIOD THAT WERE DEDICATED TO THE CHARITABLE PURPOSE MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE ATTORNEY GENERAL BY CALLING (973) 504-6215 AND IS AVAILABLE ON THE INTERNET AT www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ocp. htm#charity. REGISTRATION WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT. New York: A copy of the latest annual report can be obtained from the organization or from the Office of the Attorney General by writing the Charities Bureau, 120 Broadway, New York, NY 10271. North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 1-888-830-4989. Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of Masonic Charities may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free, within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Virginia: Financial statements are available from the State Office of Consumer Affairs, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23218. Washington: The notice of solicitation required by the Charitable Solicitation Act is on file with the Washington Secretary of State, and information relating to financial affairs of Masonic Charities is available from the Secretary of State, and the toll-free number for Washington residents: 1-800-332-4483. West Virginia: West Virginia residents may obtain a summary of the registration and financial documents from the Secretary of State, State Capitol, Charleston, WV 25305.

REGISTRATION IN THE ABOVE STATES DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION OF MASONIC CHARITIES BY THE STATE.