The Pennsylvania Freemason - Summer 2021

THE PENNSYLVANIA

VOL. LXIX, NO. 3

SUMMER 2021

Freemasonry Back in Action:

Returning to Lodge, to Service & to Fellowship

THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON VOL. LXVIIV, Summer 2021, No. 3

©2021 The R.W. Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Pennsylvania EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman Thomas Gamon, IV, R.W.G.M. Jeffrey M. Wonderling, R.W.D.G.M. Larry A. Derr, R.W.S.G.W. Robert D. Brink, 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. Leitzell - Graphic Designer Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation Staff Masonic Library & Museum of Pennsylvania Staff (Publication No. USPS 426-140) Summer 2021 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.

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8 Membership

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 andfinancialsupportofthemembers,theirfamiliesandthepublicin general. Periodical postage is paid at Elizabethtown, PA, and additional mailingo-ces.

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) Summer 2021, 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: Thomas Gamon, IV. 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 94,000 each quarter. I certify that the statements made by me are correct and complete.

Freemasonry Today

Grand Master’s Message • Proposed Amendments to The Ahiman Rezon • Annual Grand Communication • Upcoming Events Pennsylvania Masons Will Celebrate Our Nation’s Founding • Lodge Plants Trees at Local Namesake • High Twelve International Celebrates a Century • Lodge Thanks First Responders • Like Good Neighbors, His Brothers Were There • Hunting & Gathering Together - PA Masons Outdoors • Allentown Family Makes Lodge History • Lodge Trick or Treat a “Howling” Good Time

20 Education

The Seven Liberal Arts & Sciences • Lessons on the Road

to Lifelong Learning

24 Philanthropy

Thomas Gamon, IV, Editor

Brothers Band Together for Those in Need • PMYF Scholarships Awarded • DeMolay Membership Celebrated • PA Scottish Rite Advisor of the Year • Children’s Home Graduate Plans for Her Future • Opening Reception - The Grand Exhibition Gala • Masonic Library & Museum Speaker Series • Services for Widows of PA Masons • Make Plans for a Brighter Future

Mailing address changes If your address on the back cover of this magazine is not exactly as you haveprovidedittous,pleasebeawarethataddressesaremodified 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 changeinaddress,pleasecontacttheO-ceofMissionAdvancement and Development at 1-800-599-6454 or giving@masonicvillages.org.

If you

View the magazine online! pagrandlodge.org

Postmaster: Send address changes to:

The Pennsylvania Freemason, c/o Masonic Village, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022-2199.

would prefer to receive an electronic version of the magazine for your convenience and/or to save the fraternity printing and mailing costs, please make your request by emailing pafreemason@masonicvillages.org. An electronic version of the magazine is also available online at www.pagrandlodge.org.

Save a Tree

Brethren, Throughout history, our forefathers faced countless obstacles, challenges and hardships. What set them apart from their contemporaries was their resolve and their commitment to Masonic values, to their ideals, to their communities and to each other. The strength and perseverance required to adapt to our ever-changing world with fearless determination, compassion, selfless service and grace are a testament to the bonds of Freemasonry, which endure the tests of time, conflict, plague, economic depression and anything else that attempts to erode our resolve. As I reflect upon the past year and a half, I am extremely proud of how our brethren have demonstrated these vital qualities that will serve us well, not only during a worldwide pandemic, but in our everyday lives.

I have witnessed the sacrifices of our Masonic caregivers, first responders and others on the front lines, and the efforts of our team to keep the most vulnerable among us safe, maintain and improve our Masonic Temple, keep the light of Freemasonry alive and connect and engage our youth.

Words cannot express the pride I have in being a Pennsylvania Mason; in being your friend and brother. I hope that each of you feels the same pride in our institution and our Masonic community.

I am grateful we are finally able to resume in-person meetings and activities, as we have all missed quality faceto-face time with our brethren. I encourage everyone to get involved

as soon as you feel you can do so safely. On the heels of this pandemic, let’s all do our part to help Pennsylvania Freemasonry flourish. Let’s return to lodge, get back to work and, most importantly, re-acquaint ourselves with each other with a renewed vigor to help, aid and assist those in need. Let’s re-commit to our common purpose of making better men and stronger communities.

While it may have been challenging over the past year to invite good men to learn more about our fraternity, I encourage you to include a prospective member in your plans this summer.

Introduce him not only to your lodge brothers, but to the time-tested principles of Freemasonry. One need only describe the many ways our brothers have cared for one another during this pandemic to demonstrate the true, unique value of the greatest fraternity in the world! Better yet, let’s SHOW others what we’re about by continuing to perform Random Acts of Kindness.

Throughout this pandemic, there have been brave and selfless men and women who have consistently served others without regard to their own welfare. During the month of October, I am asking Pennsylvania Masons to show their appreciation for the dedication, courage and sacrifices of our hometown heroes, the first responders in our communities.

Out of every tragedy, if we look hard enough, we can find a silver lining. Membership in the oldest and largest fraternity is, and always has been, a privilege, one that I am so grateful to be a part of! Our world needs Freemasonry, NOW MORE THAN EVER, and it is our charge to ensure that it lives on to benefit the world and serve the craft for eternity! Let us continue this heritage of strength and unity despite adversity.

May God bless you and Pennsylvania Freemasonry.

Sincerely and Fraternally,

Thomas Gamon, IV, R.W. Grand Master

FREEMASONRY TODAY

Proposed Amendments to

The Ahiman Rezon At the June 5, 2021 Quarterly Communication, three

bears to the Base Index, and then (ii) such adjusted amount shall

amendments to The Ahiman Rezon were proposed, as follows:

be rounded up or down to the nearest five dollars ($5.00). Every second year thereafter, such initiation fee shall automatically equal

1. Amend Article 10, Section 10.01 to increase Grand Lodge

(i) the Base Amount adjusted in the same ratio as the CPI for

December of such year bears to the Base Index, and then (ii) such

dues and fees:

10.01. The revenue of the Grand Lodge shall be derived from:

6. Dues and Fees of Subordinate Lodge, viz: Grand Lodge

adjusted amount shall be rounded up or down to the nearest five dollars ($5.00). The Grand Lodge shall make such computations

dues annually for each member who was a life member

along with the results thereof available to the members.

on Dec. 7, 1955 .......................................................... $2.00

Grand Lodge dues annually for each member who was

2. Amend Article 13, Section 13.44 regarding the composition

a life member on Dec. 27, 2011* .................. $26.50 $50.00

of the Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania’s

Grand Lodge dues annually for all other

Board of Directors, as follows:

members* ................................................... $26.50 $50.00

13.44. The Board of Directors shall consist of such persons as

Fee for each initiation or admission of a brother from

the Chair of the Masonic Villages’ Board, in his sole discretion,

a lodge of another jurisdiction** ............... $105.00 $150.00

may appoint from time to time in accordance with at least

*For purposes of this provision, “CPI” shall mean the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, “Base Amount” shall mean $25.50 $50.00 and “Base Index” shall mean the CPI for December 2010 2023. For the Masonic year beginning on Dec. 27, 2014 2024, such Grand Lodge dues shall automatically equal (i) the Base Amount adjusted in the same ratio as the CPI for December 2014 2024 bears to the Base Index, and then (ii) such adjusted amount shall be rounded up or down to the nearest fifty cents ($.50). Every second year thereafter, such Grand Lodge dues shall automatically equal (i) the Base Amount adjusted in the same ratio as the CPI for December of such year bears to the Base Index, and then (ii) such adjusted amount shall be rounded up or down to the nearest fifty cents ($.50). The Grand Lodge shall make such computations along with the results available to the members. **For purposes of this provision, “CPI” shall mean the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, “Base Amount” shall mean $100.00 $150.00 and “Base Index” shall mean the CPI for December

nine (9) Pennsylvania Masons appointed by the Grand

Master on the terms and subject to the conditions of The

Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania’s By-Laws.

As set forth in the By-Laws, the Board shall maintain the

standing committees described in Articles 13.45 through

13.49.

3. Amend Section 9.01 of the Ancient Charges, Ceremonies

and Forms to entitle brothers of any degree to be interred

with the ceremonies of the fraternity.

9.01 Masonic Burial Service

No A brother of any degree can be interred with the ceremonies

of the fraternity, unless he has been advanced to the degree

of a Master Mason, and provided that at the time of his decease,

was a member of a lodge, and he was in good Masonic standing,

unless by a Dispensation from the Grand Master or brought

into good Masonic standing following his decease.

2010 2023. For the Masonic year beginning on Dec. 27, 2014 2024, such initiation fee shall automatically equal (i) the Base Amount adjusted in the same ratio as the CPI for December 2014 2024

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Annual Grand

Communication Open Installation of Jeffrey M. Wonderling

Monday, Dec. 27, 2021 Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown 10 a.m. Anticipated OPEN Installation of

Jeffrey M. Wonderling

as R.W. Grand Master of the

Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania 1 p.m. Meet the Grand Master and Grand Officers 4 p.m. Cash Bar Reception 5 p.m. Banquet followed by entertainment

by Tim Kutch, Master Magician

Tim Kutch

Magician/Comedian Tim Kutch is a world-class entertainer and master magician from Pittsburgh, who has amazed audiences worldwide for over a decade with his modern, unique and interactive brand of magic. With performances for Fortune 500 companies, A-List celebrities and major universities, Tim has made a name for himself as one of America’s premier magicians and entertainers!

Reservations are due by Nov. 30, 2021. For tickets ($125 per person), contact your District Deputy Grand Master or Brother David Morgans, P.D.D.G.M., at 412-728-6533 or email dwmorgans@gmail.com.

All are Welcome!

FREEMASONRY TODAY

GRAND LODGE OF PA, F. & A.M.

4TH ANNUAL MASONIC CHARITIES SPORTING CLAYS EVENTS WESTERN EVENT

Sunday, Aug. 22, 2021

Seven Springs Sporting Clays 777 Waterwheel Drive Seven Springs, PA 15622 800-452-2223

EASTERN EVENT

Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021

Lehigh Valley Sporting Clays 2750 Limestone Street Coplay, PA 18037 610-261-9616

SCHEDULE FOR BOTH EVENTS:

8:30 a.m. Registration and warm up

For more information, call Je- at 724 - 3 9 6 - 8 0 .1

10 a.m.

Shooting will begin promptly

Shooters must provide their own ammunition. All proceeds

Cost:

$150 per person, breakfast & lunch included

benefit Grand Lodge Operations 5c) (01 )01.(Mail coupon

$25 non-shooter lunch

below with payment to:

Winners will be determined by the Lewis Class system.

Masonic Temple

Chinese Auction, 50/50 and more!

c/o Harry Rutter

Registration for Western Event is due Aug. 17.

One North Broad Street

Registration for the Eastern Event is due Sept. 7.

Philadelphia, PA 19107

Please check the event you wish to shoot: □ Seven Springs Sporting Clays on Aug. 22 □ Lehigh Valley Sporting Clays on Sept. 12 Sponsor Opportunities □ Station Sponsor $100 □ 5 Stand Sponsor $500 □ Breakfast Sponsor $1,000 □ Ammo Sponsor $2,500 □ Lunch Sponsor $3,000 □ Shoot Sponsor $5,000 □ Chinese Auction Item $_______ Total $_______

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Name: ____________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________ City: _____________________________________________ State: ______ Zip Code: ____________________________ Phone:____________________________________________ Shooters Shooter 1:_________________________________________ Shooter 2: _________________________________________ Shooter 3: _________________________________________ Shooter 4: _________________________________________ # of shooters ______ x $150 = $______________ # of lunch only ______x $25 = $___________ Total: $____________

Pennsylvania Freemason

save

the date

Sept. 15

The “Lodge in the Woods” event, hosted by the 1st Masonic District, will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 15, at Edward Mack Campground, Brickerville, PA. There will be a steak dinner and a meeting held in the Entered Apprentice Mason Degree around an open campfire. Please contact Brother Ronald Carson, D.D.G.M.-1, at ddgm01@pagrandlodge.org, or Brother Steve Henry at 717-431-0767, for details and tickets.

Cost is $35 per person. This event is usually a sellout!

Brandywine Oct. 9, 2021

Battlefield Degree

4:30 p.m. Tours begin 6 p.m.

Dinner 7:30 p.m. Master Mason Degree Cost: $40 Includes a commemorative ticket, coin, meal and photo with George Washington’s Masonic Bible Tickets: Eventbrite link: https://2021battlefielddegree. eventbrite.com RSVP is required and limited to only 150 tickets

Summer 2021

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MEMBERSHIP

Pennsylvania Masons Will Help Celebrate Our Nation’s Founding

Learn How Your Lodge Can Sponsor a Liberty Tree!     

What is a Liberty Tree?

The first Liberty Tree was a gathering place for patriots during

the Revolution in colonial Boston. The massive elm tree’s dense foliage provided cover from being easily spotted by the British.

Realizing the tree’s importance and valuable political symbolism, British soldiers destroyed it in 1775.

In the years leading up to the American Revolution, large Liberty Trees continued to be used as symbolic meeting places for “the Sons of Liberty” throughout the 13 colonies. As the years passed, other Liberty Trees died or were destroyed, until the last remained on the campus of St. John’s College in Annapolis, Maryland, the alma mater of Francis Scott Key. Under this tree, American To observe the 250 Anniversary of our nation’s founding in

revolutionaries advocated independence from Great Britain during

2026, the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission (America250PA)

the Stamp Act of 1765. Over four centuries, the tulip poplar survived

will encourage Americans to commemorate the milestone by

a bolt of lightning, an explosion of gunpowder within its trunk and

remembering our past, celebrating the present and looking forward

changes in wind and weather, until Hurricane Floyd destroyed it

to a promising future. Working collaboratively with public and private

in September 1999. Once the largest known of its species in the

entities across the country, the goal of the multi-year initiative is

United States, the tree’s seedlings, grown from seeds taken off a

to inspire the American spirit leading up to the milestone.

scion, have produced hundreds of descendants that will be planted

th

Pennsylvania is considered the birthplace of democracy, since

throughout Pennsylvania over the next several years.

it was here that almost 250 years ago, 13 colonies joined together

Lodges and/or individuals who would like to make a tax-

to sign the Declaration of Independence, conveying the ideals

deductible donation toward a Liberty Tree should write a check

of equality, liberty and government by consent of the governed.

made out to: “PA Masonic Charity Foundation” with “Liberty Tree

The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania will be sponsoring the planting

Program” in the memo section and mail it to: Office of Mission

of “Liberty Trees” in all 67 counties across the Commonwealth,

Advancement and Development, Masonic Villages, One Masonic

beginning with the first in Montgomery County this fall. Lodges will

Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. The contacts for sponsorship

have the opportunity to sponsor a tree in their county through 2026.

questions and coordination of tree planting locations and timing

Brother Rob Brink, R.W. Junior Grand Warden, who is

are: Brother Tim Pletcher, D.D.G.M.-40, timpletcher22@comcast.

coordinating the effort, said, “We believe the coordination of the

net, and Brother Tim Shumar, P.D.D.G.M.-30, tlshumar346pm@

planting of these trees will be an opportunity for Masons around the

gmail.com.

state to work together toward a common goal that will be a living monument to our country.” Each tree will have a plaque indicating

To learn more about the 250th commemoration initiatives, visit https://www.america250pa.org.

it was sponsored by Pennsylvania Masons. Media coverage will also help promote and explain the values of Freemasonry.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Lodge Plants Trees at Local Namesake environmental benefits and increase property values.”

The PHSTC recently celebrated the planting of its 200th tree in Penn Hills. The Arbor Day Foundation has designated Penn Hills Municipality as a Tree City USA. 3 Lakes Golf Course started out as the Allegheny County Masons Country Club in 1923. The name “Alcoma” was chosen since it was an acronym made of the first two letters of “Allegheny County Masons.”

Housing developments later spread around it and throughout Penn Hills, lending the Alcoma name to a neighborhood, streets, buildings and a shopping Left-right: Members of Infinity Lodge No. 546, Penn Hills - Brothers David Schirm Jr., P.M.; Greg Kobasa, P.M.; Randy McFarland; David Eichelberger, W.M.; Lyon Zeibak; Adam Gusky, P.M.; and Raymond Luther Infinity Lodge No. 546, Penn Hills, PA, joined the Penn Hills Shade Tree Commission (PHSTC) for its Front Yard Tree project on May 15. The group of 25 volunteers planted 18 trees in the local Alcoma neighborhood, including three the lodge members planted at the 3 Lakes Golf Course.

“We really thank the area Freemasons for funding the project and all their help with planting the trees,” said Kathy Raborn, President of PHSTC. “The reason we do this is because trees add not only beauty to the neighborhood, but they also have a host of

plaza. The club was sold in 2005, and its name was changed to “3 Lakes” two years later, after a Plum, PA, golf team player won a name change competition.

Infinity Lodge No. 546 dates back to 1876.

The Penn Hills Masonic Center, where it meets, was built in 1965, located just 10 blocks from the golf course.

“We were happy to be a part of the public service,” said Brother Lyon Zeibak, who is also a volunteer for PHSTC. He invited his brethren to volunteer with him, and the lodge donated $700 to pay for the trees and supplies. “We’ve been wanting to do a lot of service projects for a long time, and it’s a great project for the environment,” he explained.

THE MASONIC LIBRARY & MUSEUM OF PENNSYLVANIA GIFT SHOP

Located in the 1873 National Historic Landmark Masonic Temple in

Philadelphia, the gift shop offers a wide variety of unique Masonic and non-Masonic items including books, apparel, accessories, gifts, jewelry, prints and so much more. Sales help benefit the Masonic Temple's ongoing restoration.

For more information or to place an order, visit www.MasonicMuseumGifts.com or call 215-988-1977.

Summer 2021

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9

MEMBERSHIP

High Twelve International Celebrates a Century High Twelve is an organization of Master Masons who support

Although only Master Masons can join High Twelve, anyone

Masonic causes, with special emphasis on youth, education (particularly

is welcome to attend the meetings. A typical meeting has a brief

Order of DeMolay, Rainbow Girls, Job’s Daughters and the Wolcott

business component, plenty of time for fellowship and a program

Foundation) and patriotic events. There are over 3,000 members in

that usually includes a speaker presenting on a limitless range of

over 130 clubs nationwide and in foreign countries. The club’s purpose

subjects. As a social extension of the Masonic experience, there is

is to help members develop long-lasting friendships, encourage and

no ritual performed. Some clubs have ladies at all of the meetings,

support public school systems, participate in constructive community

while others have ladies on special occasions.

The organization’s name was derived from the long ago practice

activities and preserve the principles of good government based on the rights of the individual.

of calling off from labor for refreshment at noon, then known as “high

High Twelve International’s founder was former minister, E. C. “Wallie” Wolcott, who was the YMCA’s General Secretary at the

twelve.” Accordingly, many High Twelve clubs – but not all – meet at noon.

time. Brother Wolcott and eight of his business associates, who were also Master Masons, met in Sioux City, Iowa, for fellowship

Centennial plans include laying a wreath at Brother Wolcott’s grave; he lived to be 94 years of age, passing on Nov. 6, 1974.

and camaraderie and chartered the first High Twelve International Club, Founders #1, on May 17, 1921.

Resources: February 2021 Emessay Notes and https://www.high12.org/

Qualified Charitable Donation If you are older than 70 ½ and have a traditional IRA, hands down, a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) is usually the number one way to give to Masonic Charities. You avoid tax on any amount given from your IRA to charity, which is like getting a free tax deduction. Yes, it’s more complicated than writing a check, but once you do, you will never look back.

Please contact the Office of Mission Advancement and Development for a FREE QCD Kit, then talk to your advisor

about dividing up your QCD among your favorite charities, including the Masonic Charities. Remember, if you don’t need your Required Minimum Distribution, then turning it into a QCD is an added benefit.

We can help you create a QCD to achieve your goals while supporting our mission.

Please contact us at 1-800-599-6454 or visit www.MasonicCharitiesLegacy.org for more information. Everything we do for you comes with no cost or obligation.

MASONIC CHARITIES INCLUDES: • Masonic Villages of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania • Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania • Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation • Masonic Children’s Home

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Lodge Thanks First Responders

At the suggestion of two Past Masters, the brethren of Seneca Lodge No. 805, Kittanning, decided to show their gratitude to local healthcare, emergency service and law enforcement staff for their dedication to going above and beyond and selflessly serving others throughout the pandemic. The motion, made by Brother William K. Olinger, P.M., was for the lodge to provide lunch to local front-line workers. Brother Kenneth D. Long, P.M., was quick to second the motion, as while he and his wife spent the winter in Florida, they had purchased pizza for healthcare workers administrating COVID-19 vaccines. The workers, who were often too busy to grab lunch, greatly appreciated the kind gesture.

The lodge partnered with local business Sirena Pizza and Burgh Bar to deliver pizzas to the Armstrong County Memorial Hospital (Kittanning) ER, COVID Unit and Vaccination Center; Kittanning and Ford City EMS; Kittanning, Ford City and Manor Township Police; and the State Police.

Brother William K. Olinger, P.M., hands a pizza and a thank you flyer to Kittanning Borough Chief of Police Brother Bruce Mathews, who is coincidentally a member of Kittanning East Brady Lodge No. 244, Kittanning.

P ST RES ONDERS FIR

REMINDER: All lodges are asked to recognize first responders during the month of October!

525

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Summer 2021

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11

MEMBERSHIP

Brother Dale J. Clossen (front) with Brothers Edward L. Campbell, P.M.; Dana J. Shaffer; and John H. Huckans, S.W.

Like Good Neighbors, His Brothers Were There

by Brother Robert A. Sutcliffe, P.M., Oriental Lodge No. 460, Orangeville Brother Dale J. Clossen’s home was built in 1963 on his

his wheelchair-accessible van and drove him to Stated Meetings.

family’s old farm, which his parents named Sundale after their

Always upbeat and determined, Dale lived on his own up

“son” Dale. Over the years, Brothers Ed Campbell, P.M., and John

through age 79. That’s when having brothers as neighbors literally

H. Huckans, S.W., who belong to Dale’s lodge – Oriental Lodge

saved his life.

No. 460, Orangeville – moved into his neighborhood. Had they not, Dale likely would not be alive today.

Around 10 p.m. on May 31, 2020, Dale and his loyal dog, Stubby, were fast asleep when a fire started outside Dale’s

Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in the late 1970s, Dale has

bedroom. He awoke to see an orange glow and flames coming

used a wheelchair since. While his home was customized to allow

from outside his bedroom’s egress door. “I didn’t know if it was

for his independence, his lodge unfortunately was not. In the late

my house or Ed’s garage,” he said. “So I called 9-1-1, and then I

2000s, when the building was renovated to include an accessible

called Ed to help get me out.”

entrance and an elevator, Ed, who lives next door, helped Dale into

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Ed and his wife, Nancy, were getting ready for bed when they

other salvageable necessities before leaving around 12:30 a.m.

received Dale’s call. Since Dale’s bedroom faced theirs, they

Ed and Dale were evaluated at a local hospital and cleared.

could see the fire immediately. They grabbed a fire extinguisher

Dale stayed with his children, who hurried to his house after

and their set of keys to Dale’s door and raced over. Ed, who is 81

hearing about the fire.

years of age and suffers from lung problems, was able to knock the fire down enough to gain access through the door, shutting it behind him.

“Everything worked out,” Dale said. “The house can be repaired. Thank God everyone is all right.”

An insurance investigator determined the cause to be a faulty

Brother Dana Shaffer, a former neighbor and lodge brother

neutral in the electrical of the cable box.

who is also a rescue chief for a local fire company, arrived on scene

On the morning of June 12, a social media post called Oriental

to see flames rising 20 feet into the air. He kicked in the front door

Lodge members to meet the next morning to assist Dale and his

and raced into the bedroom. Together, he and Ed worked to get

family with clean up and salvaging what they could.

Dale out of bed and into his wheelchair. Realizing their time was

On Aug. 8, lodge members held a take-out chicken barbecue,

getting shorter as smoke was filling the bedroom, they decided to

which raised over $3,750: $2,500 from the sale of dinners and

forgo the wheelchair and drag Dale out of the house.

$1,250 from donations received. The check was presented to Dale

John, who happened to be out for a walk with his wife, Deb, saw the fire blazing from the roof. He and a neighbor from across

by the Worshipful Master at the lodge’s Sept. 8 Stated Meeting.

Dale now resides with his eldest son.

the street ran through the front door into the living room and

For their heroic efforts, Brothers Ed, Dana and John were

helped get Dale outside just as firefighters, ambulance trucks and

presented with the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania’s Thomson Award

police arrived on scene. Stubby followed them across the street

for Saving A Human Life. R.W. Junior Grand Warden Robert Brink

to safety. Three fire trucks poured 2,000 gallons of water on the

attended Oriental Lodge’s Stated Meeting on April 13, 2021, to

blaze, but it wasn’t enough. Since there aren’t any hydrants in

honor the brethren (the awards were not ready yet); then, on June

the development, firefighters laid a line from a portable pond to

8, R.W. Past Grand Master Robert L. Dluge, Jr., presented the

the house, and additional tanks shuttled still more water from the

brethren with their actual awards.

industrial park a mile and a half away, finally dousing the flames.

Firefighters brought out Dale’s wheelchair, Stubby’s leash and

Left-right: Brothers Robert A. Sutcliffe, Regional Instructor; Franklin E. Hort, Sr., D.D.G.M.-35; Edward L. Campbell, P.M.; John H. Huckans, S.W.; Dana Shaffer; Robert D. Brink, R.W.J.G.W.; and Matthew W. Sanders, P.M., W.M.

Summer 2021

Lodge brethren working the drive-through chicken barbecue fundraiser

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13

MEMBERSHIP

Hunting & Gathering Together PA Masons Outdoors Masonic hobby groups for Masons who share a particular

bring them closer to one another without the seriousness of lodge

pastime to get together, are nothing new. But one aims to take

ritual, titles or responsibilities. We get to know one another outside

Masonic camaraderie outside of the lodge room – or any room,

of the lodge, and the more we experience together outside, the

for that matter.

better we are inside the lodge,” Tim said.

PA Masons Outdoors is a specialty group for “brethren from

An avid fisherman and camper since enjoying childhood

Pennsylvania with an interest or active hobby in hunting, fishing

outings with his grandfather, Tim got into hunting after leaving

and all things outdoors!” according to its founder, Brother Tim

the U.S. Marine Corps in 2013.

Curran, P.M., Tacony Lodge No. 600, Philadelphia. In less than

“A mentor told me that the best thing to do after leaving the

a year, it has grown to 700+ members, as of August. Members

military was to find a hobby, or better yet, a passion,” Tim recalled.

share photos of game they’ve caught and trips they’ve taken, ask

“Freemasonry was one of those passions, but I needed something

questions and for advice on the PA Masons Outdoors Facebook

else. My next-door neighbor, also a brother, invited me on a deer

group and get together on hunting and fishing trips, hikes and more.

hunt, and I was hooked.”

“Being with other Masons who enjoy similar activities helps

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After talking to other Masons with outdoor interests, Tim learned

Pennsylvania Freemason

Tim has his own memories of the turkey hunt trip.

“After the first few hours, it was less about the turkey and more about being with other Masons. We had countless hours of laughter, telling stories, sharing personal matters and even practicing our lodge ritual around a campfire,” Tim said.

Brother Russ Leap, Indiana-Franklin Lodge No. 313, said, “The outdoors have always been a cornerstone of my life and a way for me to connect to my family and friends.”

Growing up on a small farm out in the country, he spent a lot of time outdoors with his grandfathers.

“If the chores were done, we would go fishing or walk through the woods hunting for berries or mushrooms,” he said.

As an adult, he owns his own small farm and still goes fishing.

He initially joined PA Masons Outdoors looking for the best local fishing spots; he has gotten that and much more out of the group.

“The group helped me meet brothers in my area, which was great after moving and needing to make new friends. The group also helped me find a brother who could lend me a hand in getting my coyote population to a healthy number to keep my they had never really done those hobbies with other members. As a result, PA Masons Outdoors was born.

“Beyond the many benefits of enjoying nature and being outdoors, my hope is that members can build a stronger relationship with their brothers outside the lodge, which will in turn, help build a stronger fraternity in and out of the lodge,” he said.

Brother Tommy Morrow, Tacony Lodge No. 600, a member of PA Masons Outdoors, found his love of hunting and fishing as a preteen, when he moved onto 13 acres with his family and learned how to live off the land. He met Tim through a Pennsylvania hunting-related Facebook group. Their first in-person meetup was to go duck hunting.

“Hunting is extremely difficult. Not any person can go in the woods and find anything all year long. But even if I don’t see an animal all day, it’s just relaxing,” Tommy said.

Similar vocational experiences – Tommy is in law enforcement and served as a police officer in Kensington, Philadelphia – furthered their friendship, and Tommy ended up joining Freemasonry because of Tim. A turkey hunt they went on in Potter County, PA, with other

poultry safe. It’s nice to know there is a place online where good men can share this kind of information and get help with outdoor issues as needed,” he said.

As PA Masons Outdoors has grown, Tim’s vision for the group has expanded, as well. He would like to set up local chapters in different parts of the state, work with Masonic youth groups and provide local trips for Masonic Villages’ residents.

“Beyond numbers, I hope that PA Masons Outdoors becomes more of a network for Masons to connect with other Masons who enjoy the outdoors. I’d like to see more events take place with even more Masons. We will move beyond one social media platform, create a newsletter and website and make our own clothing line available to help build member engagement and a sense of belonging. My hope is that we reach every lodge in Pennsylvania, and when the Master asks if anyone has anything to offer for the good of Freemasonry, that one brother from every lodge stands up and spreads the word about our adventures,” Tim said.

Anyone interested in joining PA Masons Outdoors may contact Tim at timothycurranjr@gmail.com.

members of their lodge (which turned into a fishing trip) made him feel even more connected to his lodge brethren.

“On that trip, I learned how to cook and prepare fish and have been eating fish weekly ever since,” he said.

Summer 2021

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15

MEMBERSHIP

Allentown Family Makes Lodge History

Brother Becomes Master for the 5th Time At an open meeting on Feb. 8, 2021, history was made at

Lodge No. 811, Allentown.

Greenleaf Lodge No. 561, Allentown.

“I’m just trying to help the lodge out,” he said. “All of the lodges

Three generations of family Masons were elected and installed

are having problems getting new candidates and officers in the

in the three top stations in the lodge. Brother Ralph H. Slider, Sr.,

line due to COVID-19. The Past Masters need to step forward if

Past District Deputy Grand Master, installed his grandson, Brother

we’re going to continue to see our lodge grow. I love the fraternity.

Eric M. Dye, as Junior Warden, and his son, Ralph Jr., served as

I love what it stands for, and so I’m just very active.”

Marshal. Then, Ralph Sr. installed his son, Ralph Jr. as Senior

Ralph is a member of the Century Club, having conferred

Warden, and Eric served as Marshal. Lastly, Ralph Jr. installed his

over 150 degrees, and has also received the Grand Master’s

father, Ralph Sr., as Worshipful Master and Ralph Sr.’s grandson,

Outstanding Service Medal presented by R.W. Past Grand Master

Eric, served as Marshal.

Stephen Gardner for scheduling 440 lodges to use the “Traveling

This is the fifth time serving as Worshipful Master for Ralph,

Gavel” during his term as Grand Master.

Sr. He held the position twice before in Greenleaf Lodge, in 1975

Ralph served as District Deputy Grand Master from 2006

and 2016, and twice at Lehigh Valley Day Lodge No. 813, Macungie,

to 2011. A highlight of that role was presenting 50- and 60-year

in 2013 and 2014. He’s also a charter member of Kite and Key

service emblems to brethren who had been in the fraternity for

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Pennsylvania Freemason

that length of time. He still assists with that ceremony today as Worshipful Master.

Ralph enjoys serving as Worshipful Master, where his responsibilities include leading the meetings and keeping brethren up to date about activities at the lodge, in the district and across the state.

“I just enjoy the camaraderie, the fellowship, trying to keep the lodge going,” he said. “I enjoy planning events and programs for the year and trying to raise funds for charity. Our lodge (Greenleaf) has a golf outing each year. This is our 31st year doing it, and we raise funds for our charities, the largest one being the Wounded Warrior Project.”

Ralph first became involved with Freemasonry through his late wife’s family. Rita, who passed away in April, was a 50-year

Brother Ralph Slider and his late wife, Rita

member of the Order of the Eastern Star. Her father was a very

a member of the Fleet Reserve Association Branch No. 115. I’m

active Mason.

Chaplain of both of these organizations, too.”

“It was through him [her father[ that I became interested [in

Ralph Sr. is a retired firefighter with the Allentown Fire

Freemasonry],” Ralph said. “In 1964 – 57 years ago – he presented

Department, where he served for 26 years, and President of the

my three degrees. Through the years, my son and grandson saw

Allentown Retirees Firefighter Association.

me attend meetings, and they wanted to get involved, as well, so now it’s a family affair.”

Ralph Sr. enjoys keeping busy and having something to do day and night. He has suffered some tragedies in his life. Rita,

Ralph Jr. lived in New York for some time before getting

to whom he was married for 62 years, died unexpectedly from

involved with Freemasonry when he moved back to the Allentown

cancer. The couple had three children, a son and two daughters.

area. Eric was active in the Allentown Chapter of DeMolay, serving

They lost both of their daughters over a three-month period, one

several years as State Master Counselor.

from leukemia, and one from natural causes.

When he’s not involved in lodge activities, Ralph Sr. is a long-

“Between my blue lodge organizations, retiree organizations

time member (75 years!) of the Boy Scouts, where he currently

and family, I have a lot of support to get me through the tough

serves as an organization representative.

times,” he said.

“I joined the Boy Scouts when I was 9 years old, and I never quit,” he said. “I was a Scout Master for 12 years. I just like being

Pictured above, left: Brother Ralph Slider with his son, Brother Ralph, Jr., and his grandson, Brother Eric.

busy. And my wife supported me with all of my organizations. She was active in scouting as well, as a Den Mother.”

Ralph grew up in Allentown. He served on a U.S. Navy destroyer – the USS Beatty – out of Newport, RI, from 1955 to 1961. He’s a member of the USS Beatty Reunion Association, whose members meet once a year.

“There are still about five guys who belong (to the association) who were on the ship at the same time as me,” he said. “I’m also

Summer 2021

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17

EDUCATION

Lodge Trick or Treat a Good Time

“Howling”

by Brother Bruce G. Earhart, P.M., Secretary, Harmony Lodge No. 429, Zelienople In late September 2019, a “skeleton” crew of Harmony Lodge

neighborhood. The building in which the lodge is located includes a

No. 429 brethren gathered together in their Fellowship Hall to conduct

large Fellowship Hall with an adjacent kitchen and is available for

the monthly ritual of stuffing envelopes with notices of their next

rental purposes. Within the community, there are a few businesses,

stated meeting. Not unlike previous times when they met, there was

an elementary school and a community park. The idea of joining

plenty of jovial and spirited conversation.

in the community’s trick-or-treat night seemed like a no-brainer.

During a lull in the action, a brother asked, “Why haven’t we

Many questions soon arose. How much candy should we buy,

ever participated in the community’s trick-or-treat night?” There

and what type of candy? Will anyone show up? Should we decorate

was ‘dead’ silence as the brethren paused. When another brother

the building? Time was of the essence, as Halloween was only a

said, “That sounds like a great idea; let’s try it!” things were set in

few weeks away. The brethren had “scary” thoughts that they may

motion to start what has become one of the most fun-filled events

be in “grave” danger of pulling off such an event.

the lodge has undertaken.

Although somewhat “frightened” as to what to expect, the

Harmony Lodge No. 429 (only a few miles from Evans City, where

members quickly went into action. They purchased about two

“Night of the Living Dead” was filmed) is nestled within a residential

pounds of various candies and a couple gallons of apple cider for

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Due to the unexpectedly large number of visitors, the brothers soon realized there wouldn’t be enough treats and cider to last the evening. The search began throughout the facility for additional treats. A gallon of apple cider was found in the kitchen’s refrigerator for a future lodge meeting. A supply of butterscotch candy used for members attending lodge meetings was “looted” in favor of the kids.

Fortunately, everyone made it through the evening and a good time was had by all.

The lodge members learned from the previous year’s event and decided to up their game in 2020. The evening was promoted as “Trick-or-Treat Night at the Lodge – Hosted by ‘Brother George Washington’ and a Few of his Friends.” Better signage was created, and the lodge’s Facebook page was used to help promote the evening. Due to the pandemic, certain safeguards were put in place.

Lodge members decided that in addition to having a fun night, the event should be somewhat educational. So, some members dressed in costumes depicting well-known historic Masons. Life-sized wooden figures of famous Masons were also created, and “Brother Washington” was suited with a better fitting uniform. Additionally, flyers were printed and distributed with historical information about how the lodge has been embedded in the community for over 150 years. the parents and chaperones. A member thought to provide water

The number of visitors tripled from around 100 in 2019 to well

bowls and treats, should families bring their pets. One brother carved

over 300 visitors in 2020. Five pounds of candy and more than three

a jack-o-lantern with the Masonic emblem. Another brother decided

gallons of hot apple cider were consumed.

to dress as Brother George Washington, donning a tricorn hat and gloves and wearing the sash and sword.

The annual Halloween event creates excitement and encourages participation by members, as well as the public. The event also

With a handwritten Halloween sign staked in the front lawn,

attracts people of all age groups. One young treater posed in front

the main doors to the lodge opened wide. A table in the main lobby

of the wooden likenesses of the historical figures. Her “mummy”

was brimming with bowls of candy and hot cider. The brethren were

said she was excited to see them because she had been studying

ready for whatever the night would bring. Or so they thought.

famous people in her history class.

The evening started a bit slowly, and the members were “spooked”

In both years, petitions were generated by men interested in

that they may have over-purchased the amount of candy and cider.

joining Freemasonry. Members felt good about coming together

However, that thought quickly vanished, for in about a half hour, the

and being more active in the neighborhood. Harmony Lodge No.

lobby was filled with trick-or-treaters, along with their parents. The

429 has benefited by simply trying something new for relatively little

treaters quickly devoured the candy, and the parents were thankful

expense and risk.

for the hot apple cider, as it was a “bone-chilling” evening.

Good things happen when Masons get together. What started

As the night progressed, lodge members were over the moon

out as an impromptu idea, hastily thrown together, ended up being

at the number of inquiries they received from adults about the lodge

a very successful evening two years running. Many throughout the

and its function. It became obvious that this was the first time many

area are now better aware of the positive contributions of Masons

had ever stepped into a Masonic building. So, “Brother Washington”

within the community.

quickly charged into action and conducted guided tours of the building, escorting visitors “witch” way to go.

Summer 2021

Want to attend? Consider dressing up and joining us on the evening of Oct. 31, 2021. It should be a “ghoulishly” great evening!

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19

EDUCATION Arithmetic Geometry

Music

Astronomy

Grammar

Logic

Rhetoric

The Seven Liberal Arts & Sciences Freemasonry’s motto is “Making Good Men Better” – better

“The trivium helps you influence the world around you,”

fathers, husbands, brothers and sons. It places an emphasis on

said Brother Seth Anthony, Past Master of Abraham C. Treichler

the individual man by strengthening his character, improving his

Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown. “The quadrivium helps you come

moral and spiritual outlook and broadening his mental horizons.

to a better understanding of the world around you.”

As such, Masonic teaching encourages its students to

MasonicDictionary.com describes the Seven Liberal Arts

contemplate and learn from the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences.

as follows: Grammar is the portion of language that allows us

The Seven Liberal Arts, represented by the seven steps in the

to fine tune our speech. Rhetoric is the art which allows us to

Fellowcraft degree, symbolize for the Mason “an idealization of

persuade the listener. Logic permits us the gift of reasoning.

education, the intellectual and cultural discipline necessary for

Arithmetic is the process by which we’re able to calculate all

man in his quest to obtain perfection and understand his Maker,”

weights and measures. Geometry allows us to create right-

according to themasonictrowel.com.

angled triangles, the symbol of our uprightness and square

The Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences were the curriculum

actions toward God, one another and our fellow creatures. There

known to ancient Greece and Rome and to Western Europe

is a clear mathematical correlation between Music and numbers.

during medieval times. During their cultural ascent, the Greeks

Astronomy is the art by which we can trace the great symmetry

came to see learning as being composed of seven arts:

of the hand of the deity through the heavens.

grammar, logic, rhetoric, geometry, arithmetic, music and

The more brethren who read and study the Seven Liberal

astronomy. What’s known as the “trivium” consists of grammar,

Arts, the better informed they will be, said Brother Vince Cruciani,

logic and rhetoric, while the “quadrivium” consists of arithmetic,

a member of Peter Williamson Lodge No. 323, Scranton.

astronomy, music and geometry.

“You’ll broaden the minds of that many more people,” he said.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

“Everything in Freemasonry is symbolic. The Seven Liberal Arts

familiar with, but I also try to gain and expand upon a growing

represent the knowledge available and known to humanity.”

knowledge of those which I am not,” he said. “I do a lot of reading.

For example, I wasn’t attentive to geometry in school. I always struggled with it. But Freemasonry’s emphasis on geometry has inspired me to learn more about the subject matter, so I can not

The degree to which one studies the Seven Liberal Arts and

only have a better understanding of the world around me, but

Sciences depends on the Mason and how deeply he wants to

also the principles taught through geometry, to make myself a

dive into the various meanings and apply them to everyday life,

better person. It’s a continuous learning process.”

Brother John F. (Jack) Harley, Past Master of Ephrata Lodge

said R.W. Michael S. Neuberger, Past Grand Historian for the Grand Lodge of New Jersey.

“There are a lot of brethren

“The question that every Mason

No. 665, received his degrees in a One Day Class back in 2004. He said

should ask himself could be: What can

learning about the Seven Liberal Arts

is when they see that [Fellowcraft]

I use today, in the 21st century, out of

than any other portion of the ceremony

degree, and then they never look at it

these ‘ancient’ disciplines; whether

that day.

‘Let’s take this a bit deeper.’ What

is there anything for us, speculative

to improve yourself, that’s the list right

you put in is what you get out of it.”

Masons, to be learned and applied in

there,” he said. “It helped me break

Liberal Arts are core to Freemasonry,

our everyday life and actions?”

what’s important in terms of improving

it is up to the individual members to

–Masonicfootnotes.com

who, the only time they ever hear or read about [the Seven Liberal Arts]

again,” he said. “Other brethren say,

Seth agrees that while the Seven

decide how much they want to invest

and Sciences piqued his interest more

“I thought, if you’re really trying

down what I needed to work on and myself. I now do the mentoring in my lodge with the new candidates, and we talk about the Seven Liberal Arts.

in learning about them.

“We [our lodge] list them and say you should study them and that they are important, but we don’t dig that deeply into them,” he said. “Other jurisdictions go further into them for ritual. We leave it up to the individual member.”

It gives the younger guys a very broad map of how to get started on their journey.

“Do they study them intensely? Most don’t. Out of 1,000 new Masons, maybe 10 are going to take it to heart. Maybe more than

As part of his role, Seth, Secretary of the Pennsylvania

10. But those 10 are going to make it a part of their lives forever.”

Academy of Masonic Knowledge, educates new lodge members about the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences.

“I think in the modern age, grammar, rhetoric and logic are things we all need to process,” he said. “The quadrivium is more difficult to see in day-to-day life, except from a spiritual standpoint – you realize how everything is tied together and how math can be tied into everything. We continue to discover through science and math how the world works.”

Brother Vince, a Master Masonic Scholar with the Academy, lectures about the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences as part of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania’s Speakers’ Bureau. Expanding his knowledge on the Liberal Arts is an obligation that he said he takes very seriously.

“I not only try to polish and master those [arts] which I am

Summer 2021

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21

EDUCATION

Left - right: Dave Raymond, Eric Gimbi and Mike Graham visit Mount Vernon

Lessons on the Road to Lifelong Learning Each year, Northeastern Middle School students in York County

originator of the name “Lessons on the Road.”

take a field trip to the Gettysburg battlefields and national park. In

“He makes us look very good,” Dave said.

2020, Gettysburg came to them, thanks to their teachers, Riverside

Although designed to educate their students about local and

Lodge No. 503 brethren Eric Gimbi, Michael Graham and David

American history (with the occasional science lesson thrown in by

Raymond – the first of what would be many “Lessons on the Road.”

Brother Mike), “Lessons on the Road” has been a learning experience

A series of virtual field trips developed for their eighth grade

for the brethren, as well.

students, “Lessons on the Road” has taken the three teachers,

“I got a small taste of what it’s like to be a history teacher and

friends and Masons across the state and beyond, garnering a fan

having a deluge of information that you have to keep to two minutes

base outside the classroom. As of August, their YouTube channel

– what highlights do you hit, what do you leave out?” Mike said.

for the series has over 10,000 subscribers. Their production value

All experienced the unique challenges of being educators during

has been helped by Brother Dave’s son, Alex Raymond, a Kutztown

pandemic times: navigating online platforms and software like Zoom,

University graduate who specialized in video production and is the

teaching to avatars instead of student faces and feeling on their

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Pennsylvania Freemason

District teacher whom Brother Eric replaced.

“I learned more from Charlie than I did from anybody else,” Dave said.

Eric’s father is also a Mason. Famous Masons of history, like Marquis De Lafayette, make appearances in “Lessons on the Road.”

“With what we do, there’s such a strong Masonic connection between American history and Freemasonry. We try to illuminate all the great things Masons have done,” Eric said.

In addition to sharing knowledge – Masonic-related or not – they model the oft-cited and quoted Masonic catchphrase, “Making Good Men Better” for their students.

“What we try to do is to teach these kids to be well-rounded students and have an appreciation for learning, because wanting to learn means you want to get better,” Dave said.

A return to in-person learning doesn’t mean the end of “Lessons on the Road.” The team have their eyes on Brother James Buchanan’s

Left - right: Alex Raymond; Brother Mike Graham; Matt Briney, Vice President of Media and Communications at Mount Vernon; and Brothers Dave Raymond and Eric Gimbi during a session of “Lessons on the Road.”

Wheatland and the Kit Carson House, owned by Bent Masonic Lodge No. 42, Taos, Grand Lodge of New Mexico, as some future sites for videos. Eventually, they would even like to film in the White House,

students’ behalf the loss of typical fun middle school experiences like sports games and school dances.

“One of my favorite quotes is a [Brother F.D.] Roosevelt quote: ‘A smooth sea never made for a skilled sailor.’ I think, after this year,

a place which has been home to 14 Masonic presidents throughout its 230-year history.

Watch “Lessons on the Road” at https://www.youtube.com/c/ BobbleheadGeorge/videos.

we will all be very skilled sailors,” Mike said.

Fortunately, “Lessons on the Road” brought some much-needed levity into the virtual classroom experience, with students – many of whom have their own YouTube aspirations – responding positively.

“When we show them to the kids, they get excited about them.

And they’re 14-year-old kids. It’s hard to get them excited about stuff,” Dave said.

Videos filmed at Brother George Washington’s home, Mount Vernon, were an overall highlight for both parties. Their video at the Codorus Iron Furnace in York County is another popular upload.

Even as non-students are watching their videos, the teachers always keep their original audience at top of mind.

“With Mount Vernon, we approached it as, ‘If we were eighthgrade students walking into this room, what would be their first question?’” Dave said.

Promoting the value of history and learning is important to them not only as teachers, but also as Masons. Dave and Mike had the same Masonic mentor: Brother Charles Lenhart, 33°, Riverside Lodge No. 503, Wrightsville, a former Northeastern York School

Summer 2021

Pictured above after Brother Eric Gimbi's Third Degree are (front, left-right): Brothers Mike Graham, Eric, Dave Raymond and Russ Blake, 8th grade learning support teacher with Northeastern Middle School. Back row, left-right are Brothers Charlie Lenhart and Mike Alessandroni, Northeastern Middle School Principal.

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23

PHILANTHROPY

Brothers Band Together for Those in Need

“There’s always someone worse off than you.”

That’s the mantra that Brother Timothy Radtke, Worshipful Master at William Elkins Lodge No. 271, Philadelphia, likes to repeat to himself.

That’s why when he learned about the Gift of Life Family House and its Home Cooked Heroes program, he knew he wanted his brothers to participate.

The Gift of Life House serves as a “home away from home” for those who travel to Philadelphia for transplant-related care. The Home Cooked Heroes program provides daily meals for patients and families through food or monetary donations from civic groups and lodges. Prior to COVID-19, groups of volunteers would come prep and cook the food from scratch in the on-site kitchen at the house.

“It’s one less thing for the patients and their families to worry about,” Timothy said. “Our guys make sure they are doing their part in giving back to those who are going through a hard time.”

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MB+ODP

In the past year, lodge support has provided meals for over 1,040 families at the house, and 11 future meal dates are planned, said Genevieve Moore, a guest service liaison for the Gift of Life Family House. The largest group to commit to the program is the Masonic Blood+Organ Donor Program, led in part by Brother Bill Soloway, himself a transplant recipient and a member of the advisory board.

Bill is mainly responsible for getting the word out to the individual lodges to participate.

“They [the families] are appreciative because we’re able to provide a fresh meal for them,” Genevieve said. “After spending all day at the hospital, words can’t express how much it means to them not to have to make dinner. They can come back, relax and eat together after a stressful day.”

Brother Bill Birtle and his wife, Jean, stayed at the house for over a month when Bill, a member of Perseverance Lodge No. 21, Harrisburg, had a liver transplant. They were very grateful for the support from the lodges. “You always knew you’d have something warm to eat,” Jean said. “It was very comfortable, wonderful.”

www.MasonicBloodAndOrganDonors.org

Pennsylvania Freemason

Brother Ariel Gonzalez, Lodge No. 2, Philadelphia, said his lodge has been volunteering with the program since 2018, in addition to other philanthropic activities. “We served meals two years prior to the pandemic, and we just donated meals the last two years with COVID-19, since guests are immunocompromised, and we can’t come into the facility,” he said. “We always have a good turnout.

People really enjoy getting in the kitchen. They are always asking, ‘When we are going to do this again?’”

Under normal operations, groups come on site to prepare dinner or brunch. Volunteers have use of four cooking stations, pots and pans, baking sheets and utensils. They are only responsible for bringing the ingredients, Genevieve said.

“We see groups come in who prepare varying degrees of meals, from the very simple - like pasta and meatballs - to Asian-inspired dishes and stir frys,” Genevieve said. “We leave the meal planning up to the individual groups. We only coordinate our expectations and sanitation guidelines. We do require groups to fill out an ingredient form with basic information or a copy of the recipe. Since COVID, we are strongly encouraging groups to sign up to drop off food, send catering or make a donation, but in order to get the true experience, arranging a drop-off is the preferred method. You can still have that bonding experience even if you’re not preparing something from scratch for people.”

that they don’t have to cook a meal or figure out what to eat. “We also have real chefs in our fraternity and lodge who help us make certain things,” he said. “We follow everything that the nutritionist tells us with what to cook or add or not add.”

During the pandemic, Pennsylvania Masons have really risen to fill the gap with providing meals, Bill said. “Things slowed down with COVID, but that didn’t stop people from needing life-saving transplants,” he said. “Lodges stepped up to meet the demand. The house was suffering because people could not come in and cook, but we could cook elsewhere and have the meals delivered.”

Ariel added, “We try to expose our members so they can see the work that Gift of Life does, to engage in fellowship and also to do good for the community. We really enjoy the time we participate there.”

For more information on the Gift of Life Family House, visit: https://www.giftoflifefamilyhouse.org For more information on the Masonic Blood+Organ Donor program, visit: https://masonicbloodandorgandonors.org/

For Timothy, there’s no more rewarding experience than hearing family members come down the stairs into the dining area, relieved

Summer 2021

MB+ODP

www.MasonicBloodAndOrganDonors.org

25

PHILANTHROPY

PMYF Scholarships Awarded The Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation spearheads many

impact on youth, as over the years, thousands of deserving students

programs that impact youth throughout the Commonwealth – from

have benefited from assistance in pursuing their college education.

continuous support for five Masonic youth groups, to collaborating

Thanks to the generosity of the Masons in Pennsylvania

with educators and school administrators in identifying behavioral

and the lodges they are members of, this year, the foundation

challenges, to working with other youth programs in communities

received applications from 97 students representing 35 counties

with a large Masonic presence, such as the Scouts.

in Pennsylvania. Forty-four students received a combined total of

The foundation’s scholarship program also provides a significant

$158,000 in scholarship awards.

DeMolay Membership Celebrated Bringing in new members and retaining existing members is important to the success of any organization. Five Pennsylvania DeMolay chapters have successfully inducted four new members in 2020: Chester Pike, Elizabethtown, Lincoln, Riverside and Westmoreland. As a reward for their success in membership recruitment, Executive Officer Rodney Boyce and Director of Membership Mike Larkin provided each chapter a pizza party. The chapters were responsible for scheduling a date and location for their party. “Dad” Boyce and “Dad” Larkin attended to celebrate each chapter’s success, encourage them to continue their momentum and inspire them to create more fun events to encourage member participation.

PA Scottish Rite Advisor of the Year Congratulations to “Mom” Jeanine Larkin, Director of Health and Safety for Pennsylvania DeMolay. Recently, the Scottish Rite of Pennsylvania chose “Mom” Larkin as the Outstanding Advisor of the Year for her continuous work with Pennsylvania DeMolay over the last 18 years. She has served as the nurse at many of DeMolay’s activities over the years, from the annual KeyMan Conference to various leadership weekends and sports activities. She has been a vital part of DeMolay’s successful safety plan for returning to activity during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Mom” Larkin was honored on July 17 at the Scottish Rite Cathedral in Harrisburg, during Council of Deliberation, the annual meeting of Scottish Rite Masons in Pennsylvania. She has also been submitted as a candidate for the Scottish Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction Advisor of the Year Award.

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Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation www.pmyf.org

Pennsylvania Freemason

Children’s Home Graduate Plans for Her Future

Success is primed for s-u-c-c-e-s-s.

The 2021 high school and children’s home graduate plans to attend Penn State University this fall, thanks to scholarships made available primarily through the generosity of Pennsylvania Masons and their families

“I’m hoping to study nursing,” Success said. “I want to be a labor and delivery nurse. I like obstetrician work and babies and stuff like that.”

The Philadelphia-raised 18-year-old describes living at the children’s home for the past five years as “life changing.”

“When I first came here, there was a phone policy, a curfew and a lot of other rules,” she said. “I wasn’t used to that environment. I come from the city, so culturally, Elizabethtown was a big change. Once I got older and moved into the older girls’ cottage, there was more freedom, and we could do more things for ourselves.”

Moving from the city to a suburban middle and high school was also a big adjustment for Success. “I came from a school that was really diverse, and that was not the case in Elizabethtown.

I was really shy. But academically, I have grown a lot. I have friends now.”

Success said she “found herself” during her years at the children’s home. She met people to connect with and whom she wanted to surround herself with. “I’ve learned to mature because

Summer 2021

of the rules we have here and the things we have to do, like chores, to get certain privileges. I’ve grown in a very positive and powerful way. It has made me into a good woman.”

Success was born in Liberia, Africa, and immigrated with her mother to the United States at age 3.

“When we first came to America, we were living with our families and moving around until we found our own place,” she said. “It’s the same ole ‘single mom’ story, struggling with two jobs. I had to walk home from school by myself or with my cousin.

Or my mom would drop me off at my aunt’s house, and I’d sleep over there.”

When Success was age 12 or 13, her mother learned about the children’s home, and Success got accepted into the program.

The rest was history.

“Seeing my mom work so hard for so many years really shook me up, so I do everything for her, like getting good grades, because I’ve been given a great opportunity,” she said.

She credits her house parents – Ms. Mack, Ms. Ashley, Ms. Terri, Ms. Julie and Ms. Hope – for believing in her and having a positive influence on her life. She also enjoys the other girls she lives with, who have accepted her with open arms.

“I’ve had my challenges along the way in my life, from racism to bullying, but in the end, I would tell younger kids to never give up,” she said. “At the end of the day, it’s you and only you. You have yourself and the people you surround yourself with. If they are not in your inner circle, they don’t matter. Keep doing what you want to be happy.”

For Success, happiness means playing lacrosse, reading, laughing, spending time outside and telling jokes. She’s also really into fashion and likes to dress up. She’s looking forward to what the next chapter of her life will bring.

“Going to college will be a big adjustment,” she said. “I won’t be able to go home [to Philadelphia] as often. I’m most looking forward to doing what I want to do for my future, as well as college life, friends, dorms and the experience. I can’t wait.”

Masonic Children’s Home www.masonicchildrenshome.org

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PHILANTHROPY

Opening Reception - The Grand Exhibition Gala An Open Art Competition: Embodying Masonic Values Sponsored by The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania

Opening Reception - The Grand Exhibition Gala will be held at the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia on Friday, Oct. 1, featuring a cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception, live music, announcement of winners and a live auction of selected artwork.

Exhibition: The Grand Exhibition will be open to the public to view Tuesdays - Saturdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., from Oct. 5 - 30. www.pagrandlodge.org

THANK YOU

There are countless examples of generosity in the fraternity that are carried out daily. On behalf of the Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania team, I thank those of you who have donated to the Illumination Project for our Masonic Temple at One North Broad Street in Philadelphia. We have a diverse group of donors who have contributed what they can afford to support us, and this is a humbling experience.

Our team is humbled because you have trusted us with your donation, and we are carrying out this project with you in mind. We have received donations from lodges, Freemasons, Masonic family members and nonMasons alike. We are working hand-in-hand in unity, and we will succeed. We are currently working with the City of Philadelphia Streets Department for the placement of the poles for the projection lights. COVID-19 has slowed down some city services as they adjusted to the pandemic, which has caused some delays. We hope things will catch up as we slowly return to normal. We are very excited as we come closer to our goal, so we can share the fruits of our labor. Once again, thank you.

Sincerely,

Michael D. McKee Executive Director Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania

PLAN YOUR VISIT TO THE MASONIC TEMPLE!

The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia has resumed its normal tour schedule: Tuesday - Saturday at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Tour groups must register in advance.

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Library and Museum www.pamasonictemple.org

Pennsylvania Freemason

Masonic Library & Museum

SPEAKER SERIES Interested in learning something new?

Mark your calendar now to attend or tune in as monthly guest speakers present free programs on a variety of topics of both a Masonic and non-Masonic nature. These presentations are open to the public, but reservations are required. Call 215-988-1917 or email templeevents@pagrandlodge.org to reserve your place. The programs will be live-streamed as well; for more information, visit https://pamasonictemple.org/events/ Aug. 21, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

The History of Prince Hall and Masonry in America Description: Because of slavery and segregation in America, social and fraternal institutions were developed and operated separately. Masonry is no exception. This lecture will explore the history of the Black Masonic Order in America and its Beloved Founder, Prince Hall.

Presenter: The Honorable Rev. Dr. William Lewis Rocky Brown, 3rd, a public servant, preacher, counselor, author and consultant, is President and CEO of Brown and Associates, LTD, which provides business community development and public relations.

He is a certified anger management specialist and a state certified drug/alcohol and gambling addiction counselor. He is also the Pastor of Youth and Community at Bethany Baptist Church in Chester, PA, and an International Conference of Police Chaplains Master Police Chaplain.

Summer 2021

He graduated from Cheyney University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science. He also holds a master’s in Religion from the Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary and a doctorate of Divinity degree from Jameson Christian College. Prince Hall fraternalism has been a part of Dr. Brown’s family heritage for three generations. He is a member and Past Master of Franklin Lodge No. 58, Chester. He is also member of Charles E. Gordon Consistory No. 65, Grand Inspector General 33° and Minaret Temple No. 174, A.E.A.O.N.M.S., and serves as Worshipful Grand Chaplain.

Sept. 18, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

The First Transatlantic Library, An Architectural Voyage in Time Description: During his numerous cultural trips to France and England, Brother Benjamin Franklin found inspiration in literary circles that eventually led him to found the Leather Apron Club in 1727 to exchange rare books brought back from various travels.

The club intended to promote discussion and the cross-cultural exchange of ideas about architecture and other topics, a main tenet of French Freemasonry. What started as a philosophical association became one of the original circulating libraries in the country. Brother Daniel will discuss the original reading room and some of the early architectural texts still in the collection.

Presenter: Brother Daniel Roncato graduated from the architectural school La Villette in Paris with a degree in architecture and has worked in Philadelphia firms for

the last 18 years. He is an avid bike rider who has explored the city extensively, with a special interest in old abandoned industrial buildings. He is a member of RichmondSolomon’s Lodge No. 3 and a Past Master of Athelstan-Lamberton Lodge No. 482, both of Philadelphia.

Oct. 16, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

How did THAT get here?

Non-Masonic Artifacts in the Masonic Library and Museum Collection Description: This illustrated presentation will show off many of the non-Masonic artifacts in the Library and Museum collection, several of which are of national and international interest, highlighting their importance and how they came to be here.

Presenter: Brother Mike Comfort, PM, Melita Lodge No. 295, Philadelphia is the director of the Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania. A Temple University graduate (B.A., Journalism), he has been a lifelong devotee of historical and genealogical research.

He currently serves an advisor to both the History Committee and the committee on Native American regalia, Boy Scouts of America – an organization he has been part of for 50 years.

Library and Museum www.pamasonictemple.org

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PHILANTHROPY

She supported her husband on his Masonic journey.

Now, it’s time to support her.

Services for Widows of PA Masons One of the obligations Masons vow to uphold is to support the widows of their fraternal brothers. The Masonic Widows’ Guild is available to honor and assist Masonic widows through events, communications and by connecting them with each other, as well as to supportive services they may need.

Members of the Widows’ Guild receive a Masonic Blue Slipper Pin, which is a universal symbol among Masons that identifies the wearer as the widow of a Mason. Members also receive a personalized membership card, invitations to events, newsletters and access to the Guild’s directory.

The Masonic Outreach Program provides financial assistance for eligible widows,

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Masonic Villages www.masonicvillages.org

access to legal and financial counsel, medical equipment and information about local, state and federal programs that can provide assistance.

Masonic Villages provides an array of services including retirement living, nursing and personal care, rehabilitation and home-based care. Services vary across five Pennsylvania locations.

If you are a Masonic widow or know a Masonic widow who would benefit from these services, learn more by visiting MasonicVillages.org.

Or, contact Linda Jackson, relations administrator and coordinator of the Masonic Widows’ Guild, at 717-367-1121, ext.

33497, or LMJackson@masonicvillages.org.

Pennsylvania Freemason

Make Plans for a

Brighter Future

Welcome a New Season of Possibilities Embrace the growth and renewal of carefree retirement living for a brighter tomorrow.

With a challenging year behind us and hope on the horizon, now is an ideal time to plan your future. Masonic Village residents experienced security and protection throughout the pandemic, and you deserve the same peace of mind. Put your concerns to rest, because at Masonic Village, you have a team of people who care about you. Inside the safety and comfort of our beautiful campuses, all necessary services are available - and if needed, delivered to your doorstep - so you can live worry-free today and in the future.

Enjoy Life Your Way and let us take care of the rest.

Contact us to visit in person or online!

Call the community* you’re interested in below for available times:

Masonic Village at Dallas: 570-446-5658 Masonic Village at Elizabethtown: 717-473-0614 Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill: 484-535-3119 Masonic Village at Sewickley: 724-242-5099 Masonic Village at Warminster: 215-672-2500

*Each community’s availability for in-person visits is subject to local guidelines.

After careful consideration, Masonic Village at Elizabethtown has decided to cancel Autumn Day this year.

Summer 2021

Masonic Villages www.masonicvillages.org

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NOW is a Perfect Time to Plan for the FUTURE What is a Charitable Gift Annuity? A charitable gift annuity

(CGA) is a way to make a gift to support the Masonic causes that you care about. If you are 65 or older, you can make a gift of cash (credit card may be used to gain rewards), stock, mutual funds or appreciated property to us. In return, we will make payments for life to you, you and a loved one or another person. Each payment will be fixed and the amount of each payment will depend on the age of the person who receives the payments. After all payments have been made, we will receive the remaining value of your gift to support the Masonic causes that matter to you. Depending upon your gift, you may receive the added benefit of mostly tax-free payments. You will also receive a charitable deduction in the year that you set up the gift annuity. Masonic Charities has issued nearly 1,000 charitable gift annuities since 1994.

Would you like to see the benefits of creating a CGA? You can use the Gift Annuity calculator on our website at MasonicCharitiesLegacy.org or call 1-800-599-6454 to find out your estimated payment projections or tax deductions based on your gift of cash or appreciated property.

COMPLETE AND MAIL THIS FORM TO: “We love our gift annuities for O-ceofMissionAdvancementand’evelopment, OneMasonic’r.,(li]abethtown,3A02-71 8 0 - 59 - 645 many reasons. I trust the Grand I would like more information, with no obligation. Please: Lodge of Pennsylvania to use the Send me a Charitable Gift Annuity illustration.

Name( _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ s_ _ _ )_ funds wisely, the rate of return and Address_ ___________________ the charitable deduction is good Telephone: ( ___ ) Email:_ and it helps to be assured that we My birth date__ _ _ Spouse’s _ birth date__ _ (i_ _f two lives) Dollar amount(s) to be illustrated u ( p to three amounts) ______ will receive regular fixed payments ______________________ for the rest of our lives.”

If using appreciated stock, estimate cost basis_ _________ - Brother Luther A. Zarfoss II, Red Lion Lodge No. 649, and Kimberly A. Zarfoss

Call me about using my credit card to purchase my annuity.

Phone (

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _) _

www.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 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 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, 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 Chariti 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 T 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 GENE 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 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 ar 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 Se 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 DOE ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION OF MASONIC CHARITIES BY THE STATE.