Freemason - February 2013

The Pennsylvania

FEBRUARY 2013 • Volume LX No. 1

100 Years of Caring forChildren

Inside this Issue...

THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON® VOL. LX, FEBRUARY 2013, NO. 1

©2013 The R.W. Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of PA

EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman Jay W. Smith, R.W.G.M. Robert J. Bateman, R.W.D.G.M. Raymond T. Dietz, R.W.S.G.W. S. Eugene Herritt, R.W.J.G.W. Jeffrey W. Coy, R.W.G.T. Mark A. Haines, R.W.G.S. EDITORIAL STAFF Tina L. Raybold - Production Coordinator Rich Johnson - Graphic Designer Thomas R. Labagh - Executive Director, PMYF, Consultant Masonic Library & Museum of PA Staff (Publication No. USPS 426-140) February 2013 Issue of The Pennsylvania Freemason ® 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.

3 Grand Lodge

• Grand Master’s Message • 2013 Calendar of Events • Explore Alaska with the Grand Master • December 2012 Quarterly Communication • Help for Our Heroes • Masonic Organ Donor Program • Online Masonic Education • Academy of Masonic Knowledge • PMYF Scholarships Available

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.

12 Lodge and District

• One Day Masonic Journeys • Florida Masonic Reunion • Lodge & District Open Houses • Random Acts of Kindness & Community Service • Lodge & District Happenings • Congratulations to ...

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

21 Freemason

• Memories of a Masonic Motocycle • Fernwood Lodge Exhibit at The Library & Museum of PA • Masonic Book Review

23 PA Masonic Youth Foundation

• Growing PA Rainbow! • Keep Calm, and Support Masonic Youth • Job’s Daughters Present HIKE Award • DeMolay Honors Supreme Tall Cedar

25 Masonic Villages

• Happy 100th Birthday, Masonic Children’s Home!

• Committed to Caring for Children • Masonic Villages = A Mission of Love Built Upon Masonic Heritage • Enjoy Life Your Way at a Masonic Village • 2013 Wish List Items

Save a Tree

CORRECTION: On p. 19 of the November 2012 issue, the Battle of Gettysburg was noted to have taken place in 1962 instead of 1963. We apologize for the error.

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If you 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.

(Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United States Code) February 1, 2013, 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: Jay W. Smith. 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 124,000 each quarter.

I certify that the statements made by me are correct and complete.

Jay W. Smith, 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 Gift Planning at 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.

Dear Brethren:

I hope each of you had a wonderful holiday and a very happy New Year.

This past year has been very challenging and rewarding. Our lodge officers and members have worked very hard in supporting their lodges and the programs I initiated on Dec. 27, 2011.

We have added some new courses to the Online Education Program and have more planned for the near future.

We had a very successful December Quarterly Communication in Lancaster, Pa. (See details on pp. 6-7.)

I had the opportunity to award Bro. John C. Hill, from Dallas Lodge No. 231, with the first Master Builders Award for completing the Master Builders Program for new members. I encourage more of our new members to complete this program; you may contact the Worshipful Master or Secretary of your lodge to learn more about the requirements. Also, it was my privilege to present the Grand Master’s Service Award to Brothers Danny Martin, Alvin Blitz and Raymond Greiner for their outstanding service to the fraternity. It was an honor to present the Mark Twain Award, on behalf of the Masonic Service Association, to Manoquesy Lodge No. 413, the only lodge in Pennsylvania to receive this award in 2012. Finally, it was also my pleasure to present the Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouting Award to Bro. Joshua N. Luey, a member of Emmaus Lodge No. 792.

I want to thank the District Deputy Grand Masters who retired on Dec. 27, 2012, for their dedicated service to the fraternity and their respective districts. I also congratulate and welcome our 10 newly appointed District Deputy Grand Masters and two newly appointed Grand Chaplains who began their roles on Dec. 27, 2012. I look forward to working with each one of you as we move Freemasonry forward.

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to everyone who participated in our Help for Our Heroes program.

Through your generous contributions this past year, we were able to hold three military baby showers and send 250 calling cards to our troops serving overseas (see pp. 8-9).

I asked every lodge to hold an open house in 2012 to showcase Freemasonry within the community. The reports I received indicated they were very positive and well received. These efforts are vital to strengthen our membership, which as of the end of 2012, was 109,711. We had a year in which we received more than 2,900 new brethren and restored 570 to membership; however, due to deaths and suspensions (from non-payment of dues) we experienced a net loss of approximately 1,400 members in 2012. Therefore, I am again asking that each lodge hold an open house in 2013.

We also need to continue our efforts to reduce the number of suspensions for non-payment of dues. I have asked every lodge to establish a Membership Retention Committee to work on reducing our suspensions.

No member will be suspended without first being contacted by a member of the committee and receiving the approval of the District Deputy Grand Master.

This year, the Masonic Children’s Home at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown will be celebrating its 100th anniversary. It is surprising that many of our members don’t realize that we offer this service, as part of our Masonic Charities, to the young people of Pennsylvania in order to give them a solid start in life. We have 40 residents at our children’s home at this time (see pp. 26-27).

I look forward to visiting as many of our Masonic youth group meetings as possible this year. I had a small medallion struck, which was designed by Bro. Matthew Blaisdell, Past State Master Councilor for PA DeMolay and a member of Riverside Lodge No. 503, Wrightsville, to give to each of our youth (read more about this on p. 24). It is important that we support our youth groups and show our appreciation for what they do for Freemasonry and the communities in which they live. I have also struck a youth service medallion for our youth leaders to wear.

On May 26, 2013, we will hold a special Communication in Gettysburg, Pa., to rededicate the Friend to Friend Monument and participate in a Memorial Day parade. I hope everyone will take the opportunity to join with us in this event.

Our Alaska trip is scheduled from July 22, 2013 to Aug. 4, 2013 (see p. 5). Some spaces are still available.

If you intend to travel with us and you have not yet reserved a space, I suggest that you make your reservation as soon as possible.

In closing, I ask each of you to support your lodge and its activities. By working together, we can again become the focal point of the communities in which we live. We need Freemasonry more today than ever in our nation. Let’s all be Master Builders and move our fraternity forward!

Sincerely and Fraternally,

Jay W. Smith Right Worshipful Grand Master

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Pennsylvania Freemason

2013 CALENDAR OF EVENTS DATE EVENT LOCATION Jan. 5 Presentation of John T. Brobst, Jr., as D.D.G.M. for District 58 ....................................................Pottsville, Pa. Jan. 12 Presentation of James R. Shaw as D.D.G.M. for District 7 ............................................................Reading, Pa. Jan. 17 Presentation of John W. Postelwait as D.D.G.M. for District 52 ...................................................Brookville, Pa. Jan. 18 Presentation of Peter M. Kraus as D.D.G.M. for District 24 .........................................................Edenboro, Pa. Jan. 21 Presentation of Marvin Mandel as D.D.G.M. for District B .........................................................Philadelphia, Pa. Jan. 25 Presentation of Jeffrey S. Heller as D.D.G.M. for District 6 ..........................................................Norristown, Pa. Jan. 26 Presentation of Terence I. Elliott as D.D.G.M. for District 19 ......................................................Mifflintown, Pa. Feb. 2 Presentation of James B. Henkelman as D.D.G.M. for District 13.................................................Scranton, Pa. Feb. 5 Presentation of 60-Year Service Emblem to R.W. Past Grand Master George H. Hohenshildt.....Harrisburg, Pa. Feb. 19 Conference of Grand Masters and Grand Secretaries....................................................................Kansas City, Mo. Feb. 23 District Deputy Grand Master Workshop .....................................................................................Elizabethtown, Pa. March 7 Grand Master Visitation to Butler Lodge No. 272 .........................................................................Butler, Pa. March 8 Valley of New Castle Banquet.........................................................................................................New Castle, Pa. March 14-16 Florida Masonic Reunions..............................................................................................................Tampa/Sarasota/Palm Beach, Fla. March 23 Academy of Masonic Knowledge....................................................................................................Elizabethtown, Pa. April 2 Presentation of 60-Year Emblem to R.W. Past Grand Master Edward H. Fowler, Jr.......................Pittsburgh, Pa. April 6 Miss Job’s Daughter Pageant...........................................................................................................Elizabethtown, Pa.

Palestine-Roxborough Lodge No. 135 200th Anniversary.............................................................Philadelphia, Pa. April 7 New Rainbow Chapter Installation................................................................................................Lehigh, Pa.

Grand Court of the Amaranth ......................................................................................................Lancaster, Pa. April 13 Cromwell Lodge No. 572 125th Anniversary ................................................................................Orbisonia, Pa. April 20 Fayette Lodge No. 228 165th Anniversary ....................................................................................Uniontown, Pa. April 27 James W. Brown Lodge No. 675......................................................................................................Johnsonburg, Pa. May 18 Hebron Lodge No. 575....................................................................................................................Mercer, Pa. May 19 160th Anniversary of Grand Commandery Knights Templar........................................................Williamsport, Pa. May 24 Youth Appreciation Day - Masonic Children’s Home....................................................................Elizabethtown, Pa. May 27 Friend to Friend Rededication & Parade........................................................................................Gettysburg, Pa. June 8 June Quarterly Communication ....................................................................................................Pittsburgh, Pa. June 12-15 DeMolay International Session.......................................................................................................Minneapolis South, Minn.

June 14 International High 12 Convention.................................................................................................Philadelphia, Pa. June 22 Annual Session of Job’s Daughters of Pennsylvania ......................................................................Raystown, Pa. June 28 Meeting in the Hills........................................................................................................................Connellsville, Pa. June 29 Lodge of Research...........................................................................................................................Macungie, Pa. June 30 Supreme Council - Amaranth........................................................................................................Harrisburg, Pa.

Shrine Imperial Council.................................................................................................................Indianapolis, Ind. July 11 Grand Assembly - Rainbow for Girls..............................................................................................Altoona, Pa. July 13 Pennsylvania Council of Deliberation, A.A.S.R. ..........................................................................Seven Springs, Pa. July 18-20 Northern Masonic Jurisdiction A.A.S.R. Supreme Council Session.............................................Washington, D.C. July 20 Pennsylvania DeMolay Convention ...............................................................................................Erie, Pa. July 24-27 Job’s Daughters International Supreme Session..............................................................................Oakland, Calif.

Sept. 7 Plum Creek-Monroeville Lodge No. 799 50th Anniversary...........................................................Pittsburgh, Pa. Sept. 14 Corinthian Lodge No. 573 125th Anniversary ..............................................................................Pittsburgh, Pa. Sept. 19 District 1 Lodge in the Woods........................................................................................................Camp Mack, Pa. Sept. 21 Autumn Day at Masonic Village....................................................................................................Elizabethtown, Pa. Oct. 5 Masonic Children’s Home Centennial Celebration........................................................................Elizabethtown, Pa. Oct. 19 Jordan-Martin Lodge No. 673 100th Anniversary ........................................................................Allentown, Pa.

Academy of Masonic Knowledge....................................................................................................Elizabethtown, Pa. Oct. 26 Schuylkill Lodge No. 138 200th Anniversary ...............................................................................Orwigsburg, Pa. Nov. 7 York Rite Unity Night ....................................................................................................................Harrisburg, Pa. Dec. 4 December Quarterly Communication ...........................................................................................Philadelphia, Pa. Dec. 7 DeMolay - Grand Master’s Class.....................................................................................................Elizabethtown, Pa.

Lodge of Research...........................................................................................................................To Be Determined Dec. 14 Union Lodge No. 324 Banquet ......................................................................................................Mifflintown, Pa. Dec. 27 Annual Grand Communication ....................................................................................................Philadelphia, Pa.

February 2013

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YES, I would like to Explore Alaska with the Grand Master.

Name______________________________________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________________________ Phone #___________________________________________________________________ Email______________________________________________________________________ I have included a check for $_______________________________________________

*Fuel supplement has been suspended. Holland America Line reserves the right to re-instate the fuel supplement for all guests at up to $9 per person per day should the price of light sweet crude oil according to the NYMEX (New York Mercantile Exchange Index) increase above $70 per barrel. Please consult our website for current information. Fares are for the 14-Day CruiseTour.

Featured fares are per person based on double occupancy, cruise only. Fares are in U.S. dollars and include non-commissionable fares. Taxes are additional and vary according to itinerary.

Subject to availability. Offers are capacity controlled, and may be modified or withdrawn without prior notice. Restrictions may apply. Please refer to the appropriate Holland America brochure for full terms and conditions. Ships’ Registry: The Netherlands.

6 GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason

December 2012 Quarterly Communication The December Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania was held Saturday, Dec. 8, 2012, at the Lancaster Convention Center. Distinguished guests were received from several jurisdictions and Pennsylvania Masonic organizations.

M.W. Grand Master of Indiana George A. Ingles, Jr., brought greetings on behalf of the distinguished guests. Bro. Ingles was made a Mason in Pennsylvania, served as Worshipful Master and remains an active member in Butler Lodge No. 272.

The Committee on Fraternal Recognition recommended that recognition be granted to the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Alaska and the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Delaware. Both were approved by membership.

Amendments to the “Ahiman Rezon” were approved.

The 2013 budgets for the Grand Lodge, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania, Masonic Charities Fund, Masonic Villages and the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation were approved as recommended by the Committee on Finance.

The Grand Officers and the board of directors of the Masonic Villages were reaffirmed for 2013.

The following awards were presented:

The Grand Master’s Outstanding Service Award was presented to Brothers Raymond P. Greiner, P.M., Ephrata Lodge No. 665; Alvin H. Blitz, Cumberland Star Lodge No. 197, Carlisle; and Daniel P. Martin, P.M., Athelstan Lodge No. 482, Philadelphia.

The first Master Builders Award, established

by R.W. Grand Master Smith as an incentive for newly raised Masons to take an active role in their lodges, was presented to Bro. John C. Hill, Dallas Lodge No. 231. Douglas L. Heinz, District Deputy Grand Master for District 55, assisted with the presentation.

The Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award was presented to Bro. Joshua N. Luey, Emmaus Lodge No. 792. Bro. Joshua’s grandfather, Bro. Howard Luey, a 50-year member, and father, Bro. H. Brooke Luey, both members of Jerusalem Lodge No. 506, Philadelphia, assisted with the presentation.

Also assisting were R.W. Past Grand Master Stephen Gardner and District Deputy Grand Master David Howells.

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February 2013

Jeffrey S. Heller, Norristown Lodge No. 620, District Deputy Grand Master of Masonic District 6, replacing David K. Beaulieu, P.D.D.G.M. James R. Shaw, Reading Lodge No. 549, West Reading, District Deputy Grand Master of Masonic District 7, replacing Edward R. Stein, P.D.D.G.M.

The Mark Twain Award was presented to the officers of Manoquesy Lodge No. 413, Bath, by Grand Master Smith, assisted by District Deputy Grand Master Mike Febbo.

The following District Deputy Grand Masters were recognized for their years of service, as they retired effective Dec. 27, 2012: David K. Beaulieu, Community Lodge No. 744, Broomall, Masonic District 6 Edward R. Stein, Huguenot Lodge No. 377, Kutztown, Masonic District 7 Gregory L. Latchford, Adams Lodge No. 319, New Bloomfield, Masonic District 19 Richard N. Fitzsimmons, Perry-Keystone Lodge No. 392, Erie, Masonic District 24 W. David Hazlet, III, Parker City-Allegheny Valley Lodge No. 521, Parker, Masonic District 52 Robert C. Briggs, Frackville Lodge No. 737, Masonic District 58

The following appointments were made:

James B. Henkelman, Schiller Lodge No. 345, Scranton, District Deputy Grand Master of Masonic District 13, replacing Gordon M. Conniff, P.D.D.G.M.

Harris Brooks for the continued support from the membership of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania for the Help for Our Heroes program. District Deputy Grand Masters Edward R. Stein and David M. Howells, Jr., then made pledges to the program and challenged others to do the same. More than $4,500 were collected/pledges were made to Help for Our Heroes at the banquet.

Terence I. Elliott, Newport Lodge No. 381, Millerstown, District Deputy Grand Master of Masonic District 19, replacing Gregory L. Latchford, P.D.D.G.M. Peter M. Kraus, Oasis Lodge No. 416, Edinboro, District Deputy Grand Master of Masonic District 24, replacing Richard N. Fitszimmons, P.D.D.G.M. John W. Postlewait, Hobah Lodge No. 276, Brookville, District Deputy Grand Master of Masonic District 52, replacing W. David Hazlet, III, P.D.D.G.M. John T. Brobst, Jr., Pulaski Lodge No. 216, Pottsville, District Deputy Grand Master of the Masonic District 58, replacing Robert C. Briggs, P.D.D.G.M.

R.W. Grand Treasurer Jeffrey W. Coy also presented to Grand Master Smith a proclamation from the House of Representatives, along with a photograph of the members of the House who are also members of the fraternity. The House Resolution No. 846, presented on Oct. 2, 2012, recognizes the establishment of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.

Robert M. Bistline, Charles M. Howell Lodge No. 496, Millersville, Grand Chaplain.

A. Robert Cook, George Washington Lodge No. 143, Chambersburg, Grand Chaplain.

R.W. Past Grand Master Edward O. Weisser brought greetings on behalf of the Past Grand Masters.

The evening was capped off by entertainment by Re-Creation USA Inc. Re-Creation is a non-profit organization whose main service is to America’s Veterans Affairs Medical Centers and State Veterans Homes.

Since 1983, Re-Creation has provided the only continuing, live, therapeutic entertainment in our nation’s VA Medical Centers.

Marvin Mandel, Shekinah Lodge No. 246, Philadelphia, District Deputy Grand Master of Masonic District B, replacing G. Kent Hackney, P.D.D.G.M.

Saturday evening at the Grand Master’s banquet, R.W. Grand Master Smith was presented with a certificate of appreciation and two American flags from Col. and Bro.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

HELP FOR OUR HEROES DISASTER RELIEF BABY SHOWER Hurricane Sandy brought flooding and loss of electrical power to Fort Dix, causing us to postpone the military baby shower originally scheduled for October 2012. The same group we work with to coordinate the baby showers was busy helping families at Fort Dix move into temporary housing at McGuire Air Force Base. With our shower location booked until March 2013 but our moms-tobe preparing to deliver their babies, we decided to shift into a disaster relief mode and held the “disaster relief shower” on Dec. 3 in the base warehouse. Some of the moms were in the hospital and represented by either their husband or a friend if the husband was deployed. Twenty-four families benefitted that day in their extreme time of need from the generosity of our brethren.

“The disaster relief shower couldn’t have taken place without the help of many Pennsylvania Masons from the Grand Lodge and Brotherhood Lodge No. 126 (Philadelphia),” Col. and Bro. Harris Brooks said.

Bro. and Col. Brooks welcomes the military parents-to-be as guests to the baby shower at Ft. Dix.

A military mother-to-be with Bro. Tom Long, Brotherhood Lodge No. 126, at the shower.

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February 2013

R.W. Grand Master Smith (front row, center), R.W. Past Grand Master Stephen Gardner (front row, second from right), and Bro. and Col. Harris Brooks, (front row, far right) with senior leadership of the 56th Stryker Brigade.

CHRISTMAS PARTY FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Families of children with special needs are sometimes uncomfortable attending parties with other families. To ensure these children stationed at Joint Base McGuire-DixLakehurst could enjoy a holiday party catered to their special needs and circumstances, the “Help for Our Heroes” program presented a $5,000 check to TSG Justin Ashjian to fund a Christmas party just for them.

SHOWING APPRECIATION FOR YOUR SUPPORT The Pennsylvania National Guard recognized the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and individual Pennsylvania Masons for their support of the 56th Stryker Brigade during its previous deployment to Iraq.

Two flags were presented to R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith and R.W. Past Grand Master Stephen Gardner, who launched the Help for Our Heroes program (then called Change for Our Troops) in 2008.

The first flag flew over the Commanders headquarters in Camp Taji, Iraq, and was presented on behalf of Col. Marc Ferraro, Commander of the Brigade during the deployment. The second flag was carried during combat operations in Iraq and was presented on behalf of Command Sgt. Maj. John Jones, who served during the brigade’s fifth deployment to Iraq.

A thank you letter and a Masonic calling card that was carried throughout

the deployment by Captain and Bro. Paolo Sica, Perry Lodge No. 458, Marysville, one of the brigade company commanders, were also presented to R.W. Past Grand Master Gardner in a show of appreciation for starting the program during his term.

There are two main needs by our military families that would benefit from your selfless donations of time. One need is for licensed contractors who would be willing to provide services, at no charge, to the wives of deployed Pennsylvania soldiers in order to respond to household emergencies. Another need is for tax preparation professionals who would be willing to assist families while their loved one is deployed. If you are willing to assist with either of these needs, please contact Col. and Bro. Brooks at harris.brooks2@ verizon.net.

TSGT Justin Ashjian accepts a $5,000 check from Bro. Michael D. McKee, Special Assistant to the Grand Master, to fund a Christmas party for children with special needs who have a parent serving in the military.

YOUR HELP IS VITAL We continue to assist our military families in as many ways as possible, while using the generous funds you provide in the most useful and effective ways. The needs of these families are varied and continuous, so please continue to reach into your hearts to support them as they sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy.

Military parents-to-be register for the military baby shower.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Masonic Organ Donor Program by Mrs. John M. (Jackie) Ellermann

Did you ever wonder what happens to all of our re-usable parts after we die? I have often thought about this, as I’m sure others have, too.

I would like to share with you a journey through the medical community which my husband, John, and I experienced. It’s a roller coaster ride filled with the perils of anticipation of “what comes next?” and emotional highs and lows as we rounded each corner. So, hop into your seat, fasten your seatbelt, and get ready for a scary and exciting thrill of a lifetime, complete with a happy ending.

John and I have been happily married for 35 years. A few short months after our wedding, John received his Master Mason degree in Jordan-Martin Lodge No. 673, Allentown. He enjoyed an extensive Masonic career which included serving as Worshipful Master for Atlas-Pythagoras Lodge No. 10, Westfield, N.J., an appointment as a Grand Chaplain in New Jersey and serving as a Division Commander of Division No. 9, Knights Templar of PA. He also enjoyed numerous years as a Senior DeMolay where he was a Chapter Dad in New Jersey and Allentown, Pa., where we currently live. He attended many PA Keyman Leadership Conferences and is most known for his “KeyMart Store” which even included his famous “Blue Light Specials.”

OK, so I’m beginning to digress here. You may be asking yourself, “What does all this have to do with organ donation or the thrill of a roller coaster ride?” Well, here it goes: On July 29, 2007, John was diagnosed with esophageal varices: varicose veins in the esophagus which burst open and caused internal bleeding. The underlying cause of this malady is cirrhosis of the liver. “How is it possible for John to have cirrhosis?” we

thought. “That only comes from drinking,” and John never drank. John is diabetic, which sometimes results in fatty liver, which can lead to non-alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver.

He would be monitored closely during the next couple of years in the hope that no new complications would arrive. Cirrhosis is a progressive disease, but depending on liver function, may progress very slowly. Some have lived for years with cirrhosis, eventually dying of something unrelated, while others have deteriorated quickly and have not been so lucky.

In January 2009, our worst fears were confirmed. John had developed three cancerous tumors in the right lobe of his liver. Two of the tumors were small, but the bigger one measured a whopping 4.9 centimeters. The good news was that the cancer was confined to the liver, not to be found anywhere else in his body.

Cancer surgeons treated John with a revolutionary treatment called Selective Internal Radiation Spheres (SIRSpheres), which blocked the blood supply to his tumor and emitted radiation aimed at shrinking it in size. John was comforted to recognize one of his radiation doctors as a fellow Sir Knight.

Soon afterward, we were referred to Hershey Medical Center, where John would be evaluated, receive excellent care and be placed on the liver transplant list. Placement on the transplant list is non-biased. We were surprised to learn that placement on the waiting list is not determined by age or expected life span. It is determined by the Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) score. The MELD score begins with a score of 6, being the least sick, and ends with 40, being with weeks, perhaps even hours to live. As the patient deteriorates and becomes sicker, his MELD score increases, moving him higher to the top of the list.

For an experience like this, you need faith that will move a mountain. During this perilous adventure, John’s MELD score reached a total of 39, and he was placed at the top of the list at Hershey Medical Center.

In 2010, there were over 17,000 people on the national waiting list for a liver alone.

That does not include many others waiting for various vital organ transplants such as a kidney, heart, lung or a pancreas.

John experienced the celebrity status of being at the top of the list in Region No.

2, which includes Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, West Virginia and Washington, D.C. He was very sick at this time and was often visited by his fellow Sir Knights, one of whom encouraged him to submit to yet another hospital stay. Without that hospital visit, he would not be here with us today. Another Sir Knight, the Eminent Commander of AllenBeauceant Commandery No. 20, called daily and posted on Facebook to keep all of the Sir Knights updated on John’s current status.

John was given the Gift of Life on May 26, 2010, and has since made a full recovery.

We are forever grateful to our Masonic family and all who came alongside us and prayed us through. Most of all, we are grateful to that anonymous 36-year-old man who suffered a stroke and irreversible brain damage and passed from this life to eternal glory with the Father, leaving John with the priceless gift of his liver. Who knows how many others were helped through donation of his vital organs?

Brothers, it is so very important to be aware of what that one act of generosity can accomplish. Something as simple as the designation of “organ donor” on your driver’s license or donating a pint of life-saving blood at your local blood drive can make a huge difference in the very precious life of another.

Won’t you consider today being an organ donor or a blood donor?

For more information about the Masonic Organ Donor Program, please contact Rick Knepper at 1461 Hospitality Drive, Chambersburg, PA 17202, by calling 717-2631189 or via email at rknepper@embarqmail. com.

About the Author Jackie Ellermann is a Past Grand Officer of the Order of the Eastern Star of N.J., where she served as District Deputy No. 4 in 19831984. She is a Past President of Elizabethtown Assembly No. 265, Social Order of Beauceant, where she serves as Recorder. She is a recipient of the Companion of the Temple Award given by the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the U.S.A. She has written a faith-based book about their journey called “The Mustard Seed,” available online through Amazon. com, Barnes & Noble, or directly from the author at jckellermann@yahoo.com for an autographed copy.

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February 2013

New Masonic Education Website Courses The Grand Master’s new Masonic Education website (www.pamasons.net/ education) is off to a fantastic start. We have received many positive comments about its value as a resource to both new and established members of the fraternity.

Those of you who have already completed the courses on Masonic History, Masonic Law and the Mentor Program will have good reason to come back to the website: new courses have been added!

You can now learn about the excellent work and opportunities provided by the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation (www. pmyf.org) and Job’s Daughters International of

Pennsylvania (www.paiojd.org) by completing the new courses online.

Additional courses covering the Pennsylvania Assemblies of the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls (www. parainbowgirls.org) and the Pennsylvania Chapters of the Order of DeMolay (www. pademolay.org) will be arriving soon (and may already be available by the time this is published). Other courses on various Masonic appendant bodies are planned for the near future.

If you are new to the Masonic Education website, please make sure that you are registered for the Pennsylvania Grand Lodge Member

Services (www2.pagrandlodge.org/services) first. You will need your member number and lodge number (for your primary lodge) in order to register. If you do not know your Member Number, contact your Lodge Secretary or email the Office of the Grand Secretary at GSOffice@pagrandlodge.org.

The username and password you select there will be the same ones you use to access the Masonic Education website.

If you are still having difficulty logging in, please email dkoppel@masonicvillages.org.

Academy of Masonic Knowledge

The spring session of the Academy of Masonic Knowledge will be held on Saturday, March 16, 2013, in the Deike Auditorium of the Freemasons Cultural Center at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.

Registration will open at 8:30 a.m., and the program will start at 9:30 a.m. Lunch (voluntary contribution requested) will be served at noon, and the program will be completed by 3 p.m.

All Masons are welcome to attend. Dress code for this meeting is coat and tie.

Pre-registration is required. If you are planning to attend, please contact Bro. George R. Haynes Ph.D. at 215-988-1901 or email him at amksecretary@pagrandlodge.org by March 9, 2013, so that there can be an accurate

More than $100,000 was given out in 2012 by the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation through its Educational Endowment Fund.

In 2013, it is estimated that between 40 and 50 students will be selected to receive awards ranging from $1,000 to $2,500, including multi-year awards. The annual program runs through March 15, 2013, which is the final submission date for applications.

Along with the Educational Endowment

count for lunch. Your email must include “Academy” in the subject, and include in the message your name, address, lodge number and telephone number.

The program for the day includes: • Bro. Alexandre Cleven, M.W. Past Grand Master of the Regular Grand Lodge of Belgium, speaking on Freemasonry in Belgium • A Survey of Topics for the New Mason, featuring: Brothers Theodore W. Schick, Jr., “Philosophical Roots of Freemasonry;” S. Eugene Herritt, R.W. Junior Grand Warden, “The Mentoring Program/Aspects of Social Media;” Paul D. Fisher, “Historic Grand Lodge Leaders;” Charles S. Canning, “Pennsylvania’s Unique Ritual/Worthwhile Books;” and Thomas W. Jackson, R.W. Past Grand Secretary,

“Freemasonry and Religion.”

The great objective in Freemasonry is to gain useful knowledge, and the Academy provides a great opportunity for brethren to learn and understand more about the significance of the Craft.

Please recognize that a cost is incurred to the program for your registration. If you pre-register and subsequently are unable to attend, please have the Masonic courtesy to cancel your reservation by the same method and providing the same information.

Save the date! The fall session of the Academy of Masonic Knowledge will be held on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013.

PMYF Scholarships Available

Fund Scholarships, the 2013 Scholarship Resource Guide provides information on 66 other scholarships, grants and loan opportunities for Masons, their siblings, children and grandchildren; members of the Masonic-related youth groups; Acacia fraternity members; and residents or graduates of the Masonic Children’s Home. Most of these additional scholarship opportunities require the submission of a separate application, and

all of the requirements and application details are included in the guide.

The Masonic Scholarship Resource Guide for the 2013 program and the 2013 application are now available on the Internet at http://www. pagrandlodge.org/pmyf or may be obtained by writing to: PMYF Scholarships, 1244 Bainbridge Road, Elizabethtown, PA 17022.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

One Day Masonic Journeys Masonic District 21 The 21st Masonic District held its One Day Masonic Journey on June 23, 2012, at Bellefonte Lodge No. 268. Four new Master Masons were raised that day. Members from all seven lodges within the district participated in the conferral of all three degrees.

Back row, left-right: Brothers Robert S. Owens, Bellefonte Lodge No. 268; John R. Segursky, State College Lodge No. 700; Gilbert M. Boal, P.M., Clearfield Lodge No. 314; Thomas G. Newman, Old Fort Lodge No. 537; David H. Caster, P.M., Old Fort Lodge; and Donald E. Clontz and William C. Muse, P.M., both of Bellefonte Lodge.

Front row, left-right: Brothers Robert D. Dale, P.M., Clearfield Lodge; James L. McClellan, P.M., Bellefonte Lodge; Matthew J. Hill and Dale P. Moore, newly raised Master Masons, Bellefonte Lodge; Jonathan L. McNelis, newly raised Master Mason, Moshannon Lodge No. 391, Philipsburg; Charles E. Mayes, newly raised Master Mason, Clearfield Lodge; and Kenneth G. McMullen, P.M., Bellefonte Lodge.

Masonic District 34 The 34th Masonic District One Day Masonic Journey was held on Nov. 3, 2012, at Mount Zion Lodge No. 774, McConnellsburg.

Thirteen candidates received all three degrees from degree teams comprised of members from Mount Moriah Lodge No. 300, Huntington; Bedford Lodge No. 320; Everett Lodge No. 524; Cromwell Lodge No. 572, Orbisonia; Mount Union Lodge No. 688; and Mount Zion Lodge No. 774. Sixty-two brethren attended the event.

First row, left-right: Newly-raised Brothers H. Carl Aston, Jr., Damien J. Gresko, Michael R. Kemp, Dominick F. Peruso, Jr., and Kelly L. Sitch, all of Mount Moriah Lodge; James E. Donivan and Shane M. Ramsey, both of Cromwell Lodge; Glenn S. Winnick, Jr., and Darwin D. Woods, both of Mount Union Lodge; and John W. Appel, Michael L. Glenn, Derrick S. Keefer and John M. Kline, all of Mount Zion Lodge.

Second row, left-right: Mentors Brothers James A. Ardrey, P.M., W.M., Stanley J. Gresko, P.M., Raymond D. Kemp, Jr., Purs., Ralph L. Shultz, Jr., P.M., and Jesse A. Helsel, all of Mount Moriah Lodge; Richard P. Newman, Mount Union Lodge, and Gregory B. McDonald, both of Cromwell Lodge; Donald W. Weirich, W.M., and Mark E. Woods, P.M., both of Mount Union Lodge; and Logan K. Cunningham, Brian L. Culler, P.M., Keith W. Cunningham, and Adam R. Culler, all of Mount Zion Lodge.

Masonic Districts 20 & 41 Districts 20 and 41 held a One Day Masonic Journey at the Johnstown Masonic Temple on Oct. 27, 2012.

Forty-one new Masons received the three symbolic degrees in the Egyptian Lodge Hall of the Johnstown Temple, with ritual work performed by members of both districts’ Schools of Instruction.

Masonic education and instruction was provided by Brothers Jack H. Speece, District Deputy Grand Master for District 20; William J. Huston, District Deputy Grand Master for District 41; Past District Deputy Grand Master Jerry L. Lyons, Somerset Lodge No. 358; the late Samuel C. Lehner, Region 3 Ritualistic Instructor, Tyrone Lodge No. 494; and David A. Blackner, Principal Instructor of the

District 41 School of Instruction, Greater Johnstown Lodge No. 538.

Each candidate received a souvenir program of the day’s events, as well as a Masonic Edition Bible, Grand Master’s lapel pin and educational materials provided by the Grand Lodge of PA. This was a very exciting and successful day for the brethren, both new and “veteran!”

Above: Brothers Jack H. Speece, District Deputy Grand Master for District 20, and William J. Huston, District Deputy Grand Master for District 41, are pictured with the newly raised class of Master Masons.

LODGE AND DISTRICT 13

February 2013

Across The State Masonic District 49 The 49th District One Day Masonic Journey was held on Oct. 20, 2012, at McKeesport Masonic Center. A few of the candidates were college students who benefitted from the reduced petition fee. State Senator James Robert Brewster was among the newly raised Master Masons.

The conferring team, front row, left-right: Brothers Charles R. Brown, S.W., Youghiogheny Lodge No. 583, McKeesport; Raymond E. Daerr, P.M., WilsonJoppa Lodge No. 714, Dravosburg; Darrel A. Davis, P.M., Wilson-Joppa Lodge; John E. Fodella, Stephen Bayard Lodge No. 526, Elizabeth; Keith J. Caito, P.M., Homestead-Amity-McCandless Lodge No. 582, Dravosburg; David B. Firda, District Deputy Grand Master for District 49; John F. McCombs, W.M., Alliquippa Lodge No. 375, McKeesport; Albert F. Roll, P.M., Principal School of Instruction, Stephen Bayard Lodge; Michael W. Hansen, P.M., Youghiogheny Lodge; William T. Smoyer, J.W., Wilson-Joppa Lodge; Virgil Ricciardi, W.M., East McKeesport Lodge No. 765, Duquesne; Ronald J. Edwards, S.W., Wilson-Joppa Lodge; and second row, far right: Bro. Jeff K. Fitterer, S.W., Stephen Bayard Lodge. The 22 newly raised brethren, in no particular order, included: Brothers James R. Brewster, Brett A. Van Dyke and Jason T. Miess, of Aliquippa Lodge; Jack Cant, Daniel K. Carinci, Jason A. Kertes, Richard L. Knupp, James C. Lewis, Jr., Kirk A. Merling, Greggory D. Morris, Gerald J. Petrisin, Anthony C. Satterfield, Johnathan H. Stark, Richard Trainer, Jr., and Thomas D. Walters, all of Stephen Bayard Lodge; Robert S. Murphy and Ryan A. Scott, both of Youghiogheny Lodge; Charles R. Sprouce, Dwayne R. Ethridge and Richard J. Fitzgibbons, all of Wilson-Joppa Lodge; and David A. Clary and Michael J. Martin, both of Duquesne McKeesport Lodge.

R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith and his wife, Nancy, Invite You to Attend a

Masonic Reunion

HIGHLIGHTS

Information on services provided by the Masonic Villages of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania in Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill, Sewickley and Warminster • Heartwarming presentation on Masonic Children’s Home Centennial • Representatives from the Office of Aging to share information on local services • Free blood pressure screenings

SPECIAL HIGHLIGHT

Grand Master Smith will present 50-Year, 60-Year and 70-Year Masonic Service Emblems and 75-Year Diamond Jubilee Awards. He will also preview upcoming programs.

If you are eligible to receive a milestone Service Emblem in 2013, or if you did not receive it when you were eligible in a previous year, please call 717-367-1121, ext. 33849. Please call to make your reservation by March 1, 2013.

For Pennsylvania Masons, Wives and Widows who now reside permanently in Florida or who visit there during the winter months

REUNION SCHEDULE Thursday, March 14, 2013 Tampa Airport Marriott Hotel, Tampa

Friday, March 15, 2013

Sahib Shrine Center (Sahib Temple), Sarasota

Saturday, March 16, 2013

Palm Beach Gardens Marriott, Palm Beach Each reunion features a reception (11 - 11:45 a.m.) followed by lunch (11:45 a.m.) and a program (1 - 2 p.m.)

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Random Acts of Kindness & Community Service

For many, volunteering at food shelters, purchasing gifts for angel trees or donating to charities have become as much of a holiday tradition as baking cookies or sending cards. With the holidays over, giving continues within the Masonic fraternity. Helping others, friends or strangers, is a year-round priority for Freemasons.

Visit www.pagrandlodge.org/rak/index.html to enter your lodge community service initiatives and random acts of kindness on the registry.

The Heart and Soul of Freemasonry There have been many debates about the definition of Freemasonry and what it really means to be a Mason. It has been defined by its history and ceremonies. Others define the fraternity by the number of famous men in our ranks. This story will illustrate the feeling often described as the “soul” of our fraternity.

A young Mason from South Carolina, his pregnant wife, 2-year-old son and motherin-law recently came to Philadelphia. The couple was expecting their second child and was planning to give birth at the Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvania (CHOP). The unborn baby had a hole in his heart and would require two to six months of specialized treatment.

The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania learned about this brother’s situation from the Grand Lodge of South Carolina, and quickly identified a Pennsylvania Mason, who wishes to remain anonymous, to help the family find a place to live. After exhausting all his contacts with the City of Philadelphia and local charitable organizations, he went to the one place he knew could help ... his home lodge, Jerusalem Lodge No. 506, Philadelphia. After hearing the story, Past Masters, the Worshipful Master, officers and members vowed their financial and emotional support. This was expanded to Masonic District D when the District Deputy Grand Master invited the Pennsylvania Mason to speak at a visitation attended by all the officers of the district. The district committed their support for the young family.

Two Masons, Bro. William J. Glassmire,

P.M., Widener Apollo Kensington Lodge No. 211, Philadelphia, and Bro. Steven M. Fital, Jerusalem Lodge No. 506, immediately contributed $100 to help the family. Bro. Glassmire has been a member of the fraternity for 16 years and Bro. Fital had less than six months in the fraternity when they made these pledges.

Since arriving to the Philadelphia area, the family was limited to a N.J. hotel room with two beds for three, sometimes four, adults and one child (they lived out of their suitcases).

Through the support of the District D lodges and Jerusalem Lodge financially spearheading the effort, the family was scheduled to move into an all-expense paid apartment within a week. The South Carolina Mason was overjoyed by the support of the District D lodges. His second son was born at CHOP as all the arrangements were finalized.

Sadly, the joy was short-lived, as the baby passed away after a brave fight against a critical heart condition. All involved felt the grief of the loss, but none as much as the young family. The Pennsylvania Mason offered to arrange for a minister for the family.

“The love Masons have for one another was evident in the Masons who did all they could for another Mason they never met,” he said. “Although we cannot know what the Great Architect of the Universe has in his divine plan, we know it is our duty to keep the heart and soul of our great fraternity alive by living up to our obligations.”     

A Busy Year for the 1st Masonic District CHIP Team Throughout 2012, the 1st Masonic District CHIP Team CHIP’d more than 300 children.

Events held in Lancaster County included: the Manheim Farm Show, Ephrata Farm Show, Manheim Fitness and Wellness Exposition, Rapho Township Park Dedication, Lancaster County Freedom Weekend (Lancaster County Task Force), Lancaster County Public Safety Day and open houses throughout the 1st Masonic District.

These efforts were led by the District Chairman, Bro. Donald E. Wenrich, Manheim Lodge No. 587, who was assisted by a team of brothers.

CHIP team, left-right: Bros. E. Lee Barshinger, P.M.; Don E. Wenrich, P.M.; Joe H. Schavnis; C. Mike Gerhard; and Scott A. Griffith      Honoring a Local Veteran 45 Years Later

On May 26, 2012, seven members of the Masonic Motorcycle Club Chapter 38 traveled to Washington, D.C., to participate in the annual Rolling Thunder Ride for Freedom

LODGE AND DISTRICT 15

February 2013

to raise awareness of POW/MIAs and pay respect to a local soldier.

Chapter 38, along with Watsontown American Legion Post 323, created a memorial wreath with a photo of PFC Richard Ritter, USMC. Richard was a Watsontown native who was killed in action on March 15, 1967, in South Vietnam. Bro. John Bower, a Vietnam War veteran and member of Watsontown Lodge No. 401 and Legion Post 323, strapped the wreath to his Harley Davidson as he rode from Watsontown to Virginia. Bros. Russ Mook, Dave Bridge, Dave Bush and Andy Kline, all members of Watsontown Lodge No. 401; Bro. Jason Wagner, Mifflinburg Lodge No. 370; and Bro. Levi Watson, Milton Lodge No. 256, accompanied him.

The group met up with hundreds of members of the Combat Vets Motorcycle Association (CVMA) in Virginia. After receiving a police escort to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, members gathered at “Ricky’s” panel to say a few words, and each club displayed a wreath in Richard’s memory.

On Nov. 17, 2012, seven members of Chapter 38 and three members of the CVMA rode to the home of Mrs. Ruth Ritter (Richard’s mother) and presented her with two framed photos of her son, one of the wreaths placed at the wall and two photo albums with pictures of the wreaths laying and her son’s name engraved on the wall, one for her and one for her granddaughter (Richard’s daughter). This was the first time Ruth was able to see her son’s name engraved on the wall.

“The trip was very memorable and moving to say the least, but the thanks and praise that came from Richard’s mother upon our return was unforgettable,” Bro. Kline said. “She found it hard to believe everyone traveled so far for someone they did not know. She was so thankful that 45 years later, for the first time ever, hundreds of people gathered to remember and honor her son’s service and sacrifice to our country.”

Left-right: Brothers Andy Kline and John Bower, Watsontown Lodge No. 401, with Mrs. Ruth Ritter.     

Charity Golf Outing Members of Moscow Lodge No. 504 held their second annual charity golf outing in June. The event raised $1,250, which was presented to Hannah Clark, a child with special needs.

Front row: Hannah Clark and her mother, Carolyn.

Back row: Bros. Jason Beers, J.W.; Mark A. Russell P.M.; Joseph D. Palazzo, S.W.; George J. Butcher, District Deputy Grand Master for District 59; and Edward E. Germek, W.M.      Riding in Support of Youth Athletics Members of Somerset Lodge No. 358 raised more than $750 for the Little League of Somerset, Little Eagles Football League and the Somerset American Youth Soccer Organization League.

“There are a lot of families trying to keep their kids involved in sports but can’t really afford the costs, so we wanted to raise some money to offset the costs of training, equipment, registration, field maintenance, etc.,” Bro. Donald Szarmach, Somerset Lodge No. 328, said. “This event helps the underprivileged kids of our area stay active and involved in a sport, which teaches them teamwork, friendship, and to showcase their talent. As a former coach of these organizations, I can tell you the kids will truly benefit in many ways by this fund raiser.”

The lodge raised money through a Covered Bridges Tour of Somerset County Motorcycle Run, which included registration fees, business and individual sponsors and a 50/50 raffle.

Local businesses donated funds for a pancake breakfast, catered lunch, t-shirts and a live band.

The lodge will host the second annual Covered Bridges Tour of Somerset County Motorcycle Run on Aug. 11. The ride will pass many historical covered bridges in the county and include a stop at the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville. Find more information at www.facebook.com/ AnnualCoveredBridgesOfSomersetCounty MotorcycleRun.

     Chicken and Biscuits for Charity On Nov. 3, 2012, the community service committee from King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346, Connellsville, volunteered to serve dinner at Wesley United Methodist Church as part of a fund raiser for the Wesley Health Center, a free county-wide health center for people without adequate health coverage.

Left-right: Bros. Charlie G. Etling, P.M.; James W. Hines, Sr., P.M.; Bruce I. Jaynes, J.M.C.; and Donald B. Moreman, J.W.      1st Masonic Ride for the Village On June 30, 2012, brethren from General James Chambers Lodge No. 801, Chambersburg, sponsored a motorcycle and classic car ride to benefit the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown and their lodge. About 50 riders and passengers traveled from M&S Harley Davidson in Chambersburg to the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. The event, which members hope will become an annual one, raised $1,000 for Masonic Village and $185 for the lodge.

“I wanted to do something for the [Masonic] Villages because I’m so proud that Masons take care of each other through their younger years, as well as when they grow old and can’t care for themselves anymore,” Bro. Matthew Bietsch, J.W., said. “… I was also looking for fund raising ideas for our lodge so we could donate to other Masonic organizations, as well as local charities. I put together a motorcycle ride in the past for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, and it was quite successful. I wanted to do the same for [Masonic] Village. I hope

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this can be an example for other lodges. If small lodges can do this, larger ones can, too.”

Chapter was instituted and Letters Temporary presented on Dec. 2, 2012.

Rich Whitman, event manager, and Vicki Gillmore, executive director, both of Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, accept a check from Bro. Matt Bietsch, J.W., and Bro. Harold E. Nunemaker, secretary, both of General James Chambers Lodge No. 801.

Perseverance Lodge No. 21 Senior Warden Ted Carl and Worshipful Master Tracy Bitner present a check to the members of the new Carlisle Chapter in support of its organization and membership recruitment efforts.

     Supporting DeMolay Growth Perseverance Lodge No. 21, a longtime supporter of Pilgrim Chapter, Order of DeMolay, which also meets in Harrisburg, has welcomed Pennsylvania DeMolay’s newest chapter with a donation of $2,000 to Carlisle Chapter, Order of DeMolay.

The project to bring DeMolay back to Carlisle began in the Fall of 2011 and, after a very successful year of recruiting new members and holding meetings and activities, Carlisle

     Helping a Hero Regain His Life On Sept. 10, 2012, Chartiers Lodge No. 297, Canonsburg, hosted an inspiring and emotional program presented by Wounded Warrior Brian Coutch, First Sergeant, U.S. Army. In his first public engagement, Brian demonstrated how his service dog, Slate, is helping him transition to mainstream life. Slate was placed with Brian through Susquehanna Service Dogs, which is sponsored in part by the Order of the Eastern Star through its Aluminum for Service Dogs Program. The evening was

designated as Ladies Night, and many members of Chartiers Chapter No. 97, O.E.S., were in attendance, including Sister Jo-Anne Karnes, General Grand Chapter Committee Member, U.S. Chairman, Service Dogs.

Ms. Karnes presented Chartiers Lodge with a Certificate of Recognition to honor the lodge’s prior contributions to the Service Dog Project, Pawprints for Pennsylvania Patriots.

Chartiers Lodge is very proud and humbled to salute Mr. Coutch, and to contribute in a significant way to the program he credits for giving him his life back.

Brian intends to join Freemasonry when his recovery permits.

Chartiers Lodge members and First Sergeant Brian Coutch. Photo by Bro. Ralph Van Houtem.

Supporting a Brother in Need

Bro. Brad Williams, his wife Stephanie, son Owen (seated) and son Colton (standing).

Bro. Bradley Williams, Charles M. Howell Lodge No. 496, Millersville, was diagnosed in

2010 with Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA). It is a degenerative genetic disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, causing progressive difficulty with coordination. There is no known cure or treatment for SCA in the United States; however, China offers a stem cell spinal injection treatment at a cost of $30,000.

“At this point, our priority is to get some sort of treatment for him, but the main concern is the cost,” said his wife, Stephanie.

In 2011, fund raisers brought in $15,000; enough to cover half of the projected cost of treatments. A fund raiser in September 2012 brought in $5,000. However, Bro. Brad has since had two falls which resulted in a fractured shoulder and a torn anterior cruciate ligament that required surgery. As a result of the disease, Bro. Brad had to resign from his jobs at an architectural firm and the Manheim Auto Auction, and Stephanie has become the family’s sole provider.

Bro. Brad’s mother, Diana Lyons, was

able to add her son to her employer-provided health insurance within the past year, but he will turn 26 and age out of the program in September 2013. As a result, the family has placed plans for the trip to China on hold.

Instead, they hope to raise money to cover some of Brad’s future medical bills. They would also like to be able to pay for genetic tests for the Williamses’ sons, 6-year-old Owen and 2-year-old Colton. There is some concern that Owen, who has started kindergarten, may be in the early stages of ataxia.

At the Oct. 10, 2012, stated meeting, Charles M. Howell Lodge moved to give $500 to the Williamses and to request a matching or greater donor amount from the members of the lodge. Anyone who wishes to help support the Williamses may send a check made payable to “Charles M. Howell, Lodge No. 496” with a notation on the memo line, “Brad Williams” and mail it to Bruce H. Jackson, P.M., Lodge Secretary, 105 Ridge Road, Millersville, PA 17551.

LODGE AND DISTRICT 17

February 2013

Tall Cedars Donate to Bleiler Caring Cottage Tall Cedars of Lebanon, York Forest No. 30, presented a check for $5,000 to the Bleiler Caring Cottage on Jan. 3. Members raised the money through their annual gun raffle held in August at the York Fair. The daughter of Bro. Bob Smith lives at the cottage, and the group knew the residents of the cottage could benefit from the donation.

Located on the campus of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, the Bleiler Caring Cottage is home to eight adults with mild to moderate developmental disabilities.

“We wanted keep the money within our Masonic organizations,” Bro. David Werner, Past Grand Tall Cedar, said. The donation was given to provide for a vacation or activities for residents of the cottage. York Forest also gave proceeds from the event to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Masonic Learning Centers for Children and a cancer charity.

According to Deb Brockman, director of marketing and outreach, the Bleiler Caring Cottage is also hoping to grow its endowment fund to ensure services can continue well into

Left-right: Missy Kilmer, Bleiler Caring Cottage Coordinator; Bro. Lonny L. Neiman, Zeredatha Lodge No. 451, York; Bro. David Werner, York Lodge No. 266; Holly Smith; Brothers Bob Smith and Donald Cook, both of White Rose Lodge No. 706, York; and Debra Brockman, Director of Marketing and Outreach. the future regardless of the continued decline in government reimbursements for its services.

For more information or to donate, visit www.masoniccharitiespa.org or call 800-599-6454.

Incorporating Two Monumental Occasions

Brethren from George M. Dallas Lodge No. 531, Dallas, participated in the wedding ceremony of Bro. James “Jim” Byers on Sunday, Sept. 2, 2012, at Firwood United Methodist Church, Wilkes-Barre.

Brothers Christopher Matus, P.M.; Jonathan Sinclair, W.M.; David Evans Jr.; and Robert McGuire Jr., served as ushers welcoming and directing guests. They later opened the ceremony by leading the wedding party to the altar, where they stood until the

father of the bride was seated.

After the ceremony and the pastor’s final remarks, the brethren rose from their pew and halfway down the aisle, they formed a sword arch for the groom and bride to pass under.

Once the entire wedding party had passed under and exited, the Masons sheathed their swords and closed the ceremony by leaving last.

The incorporation of Freemasons in weddings is rarely done and required the approval of Bro. Barry Littleford, District

Deputy Grand Master for District 12. Bro. Jim got the idea while simultaneously studying the first degree and planning his wedding. “I often thought about how a man is initiated into Freemasonry and how a man enters into matrimony. Both are monumental occasions in life, and the ceremonies are similar in some ways, so I wanted to find a way to combine them. The most important thing was to figure out how one would respectfully complement the other,” he said. Involved in his lodge since he was initiated in 2010, “Freemasonry has become an important aspect of my life, and it has been a family tradition for almost five generations,” Bro. Jim said.

The special ceremony was well received by the audience and pleasantly surprised a Past Master from a neighboring district lodge who was a guest of the bride. “Tracy was open to the idea from the beginning. She’s always supported my involvement in the lodge, and she’s even helped out with a fund raiser or two,” Bro. Jim said of his wife. “Having the Masons incorporated into the wedding was important to Jim, as he takes great pride in being a Mason. I am very supportive of his passion and felt it was a nice touch. I felt it made the ceremony unique,” Tracy said.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Road Trip to Visit Indiana Brethren Twenty brethren from Pennsylvania traveled by bus in September 2012 to hold a special Meeting under Dispensation from R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith to confer the Third Degree in Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 77, Anderson, Ind. Upon arrival, the brethren were received by M.W. Grand Master of Indiana, George A. Ingles, who is also a Past Master of Butler Lodge No. 272.

Mt. Moriah Lodge opened and introduced M.W. Ingles, who opened the Grand Lodge of Indiana, and called off from labor when Butler Lodge No. 272 opened in ancient and solemn form and then conferred the Master Mason degree upon Bro. Gene Scott. The conferring officers were: Brothers Richard

W. McClean, W.M.; Gerald H. Wetzel, S.W.; Daniel M. McConnell, J.W.; Robert E. Gladd, S.D.; Richard J. Fair, Sr., J.D.; George F. Morrow, S.M.C.; Carl J. Wagner, J.M.C.; A. Wesley Strange, Pursuivant; Edward P. Fair, Chaplain; John V. Saul, Guide; and David H. Tack, Sr., Bible presentation. All present enjoyed an excellent conferral, and the Indiana brethren were very impressed with the ritual work.

Butler Lodge members witnessed the difference between the Opening and Closing of Indiana Masonic lodges and learned that the ritual is different, but the message is the same.

Top photo, left-right: Brothers Dan McConnell, Carl Wagner, Wes Strange, John Saul, P.M., Richard Fair and John Stokes, all of Butler Lodge No. 272; Shane Connor, Argyle Lodge No. 540, Chicora; Richard McClean, P.M., Butler Lodge; Raymond Zekir, Bethel Lodge No. 789, Lower Burrell; Richard B. Meredith, Most Excellent Grand High Priest, William H. Miller Lodge No. 769, Butler; Howard Weir, Butler Lodge; Howard Glovier, Mahoning New Castle Lodge No. 243, New Castle; Bob Gladd, P.M., Butler Lodge; Wayne Frankenstein, D.D.G.M.-District 26; Gerald Wetzel, P.M., Gene Scott, David Tack, P.M., and Ed Fair, P.M., all of Butler Lodge; and Albert Grossman, Victory Lodge No. 694, Butler. Not Pictured: Bro. George Morrow, P.M., Butler Lodge.

Bottom photo: Group picture of many who attended the Special Meeting of Butler Lodge No. 272.

Honoring an Illinois Brother

Bedford Lodge No. 320 honored its 50-year members at its Stated Meeting on Sept.

13, 2012. In response to a request from the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois, they were honored to have an Illinois brother join them to receive his Illinois 50-Year Emblem.

Brothers Donald E. Stutzman, P.M., W.M., Bedford Lodge; Don R. Pinkston, 50-year member, West Salem Lodge No. 866, West Salem, Illinois; George W. Waugerman, P.M., 50-year member of Bedford Lodge; and Robert C. Snyder II, District Deputy Grand Master of District 34.

LODGE AND DISTRICT 19

February 2013

International Gathering of the Lodges Named for St. Alban

From Aug. 31 - Sept. 2, 2012, members of Masonic lodges and their guests from around the globe descended on the Courtyard Inn, Philadelphia, for the 59th Annual Gathering of Masonic Lodges Named for St. Alban – a weekend of fraternity, fellowship and fun.

There are 32 member lodges from 24 Grand jurisdictions within eight countries represented in this organization, which meets at a different host lodge each year. The group’s charity since the late 1950s has been the maintenance of the crypt of its namesake patron, St. Alban at the Cathedral of St. Alban in England.

This is the third time the event has been hosted in Philadelphia since 2004, under the guidance this year of Bro. William Gordon Savage, W.M., Saint Alban Lodge No. 529.

Bro. David L. Klauder, Sr., P.M., Gathering Committee Chairman, and his team of brethren and their wives put together the agenda of events that kept 117 attendees occupied and entertained throughout the weekend.

Members and ladies enjoyed a tour of the Masonic Temple and a social with a “Taste of Philadelphia” theme. In attendance at the annual Gathering business meeting were Brothers Jay W. Smith, R.W. Grand Master of Pennsylvania; Stephen J. Ponzillo, III, M.W. Grand Master of Maryland; and Gerald E. Piepiora, R.W. Deputy Grand Master of Maryland; in addition to numerous other current and past grand officers from other jurisdictions.

During a St. Alban Lodge No. 529 Extra Meeting held in Renaissance Hall, Bro. David

L. Klauder, Sr., P.M., led a group of St. Alban No. 529 Past Masters in the conferral of the Fellow Craft Degree on Bro. Samuel Blaise McGovern. The attendees at the Gathering have now observed the conferral of all three Pennsylvania Masonic Degrees, including the Master Mason Degree conferral in 2004 and the Entered Apprentice degree in 2007.

The Gathering offers Masons from around the world the opportunity to see how lodge meetings, ritual and degree work differ among the jurisdictions, while highlighting the similarities and universality of Freemasonry.

R.W. Grand Master Smith addressed the attendees during the Saturday evening dinner. Most Worshipful Ian Nichols, and his wife, Jean, made their presentation and invitation for attendees to come to the 2013 Gathering to be hosted by Quinte St. Alban No. 620 of Thornhill, Ontario, Canada. After dinner, attendees and guests danced to a live eight-piece band.

Juniata Lodge No. 282 Hosts George Washington’s Gavel On Oct. 8, 2012, Juniata Lodge No. 282, Hollidaysburg, held its annual Past Masters night. Juniata Lodge was privileged to host Brothers Pierre Goze, Jeff Bodie and Christian Wicca from Potomac Lodge No. 5, Washington, D.C., who brought the George Washington Cornerstone Gavel with them.

The gavel, owned by Potomac Lodge No. 5, is usually on display at the U.S. Capitol Building Visitors Center in D.C., but the members of Potomac Lodge have a special agreement with the visitors center to remove it as they wish.

Roughly 100 members and guests from throughout District 20 and neighboring districts attended for the privilege of getting up close and personal with the exact gavel that President and Bro. George Washington used during the Masonic cornerstone ceremony of our nation’s Capitol building on Sept. 18, 1793.

The gavel has been used by 10 Presidents, all but two being Master Masons, at various cornerstone ceremonies. It was also used by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Juniata Lodge’s Worshipful Master, Adam Osman, inquired about a presentation with the gavel in May 2012. He said, “This is a significant artifact to be in Central Pennsylvania. Many

of our members do not get the chance to just pop into the Capitol Building. Even if they did, they wouldn’t get the same Masonic experience and history as what was presented to our members in October.”

Following a catered meal and the presentation, Bro. Osman presented the Potomac Gavel Committee with their own

gavel to return to Potomac Lodge Master Robin Bodie. This particular gift was turned on a lathe that very day by Juniata Past Master Thomas H. Osman in token of the lodges’ friendship and appreciation.

Above: Brothers Jeff Bodie, Christian Wicca and Pierre Goze, of Potomac Lodge No. 5, with Adam T. Osman, W.M., Juniata Lodge.

20 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason

Congratulations to…

Veterans and members of three Warren County Masonic lodges were honored during the annual Warren County 9/11 Memorial Service. Brothers T.J. Zingone and Toby Holland were specifically honored at the event for their service. Several hundred people attended each of the two services. Thousands of flags were placed in rows in remembrance of each person who perished on that day.

Front row, left-right: Linda Jordan, Worthy Matron, Youngsville O.E.S. Chapter No. 478; Brothers Douglas White, W.M., (U.S. Army Retired) Joseph Warren Lodge No. 726; T.J. Zingone, (U.S. Army/Iraqi Freedom) Stillwater Lodge No. 547, Youngsville; Rev. Toby Holland (U.S. Navy, Army National Guard, U.S. Navy Reserves, Desert Storm/Desert Shield) Purs., Joseph Warren Lodge No. 726; Ron Bosworth, Stillwater Lodge No. 547, Youngsville; and Paul E. Lauffenberger, P.M., Joseph Warren Lodge No. 726. Back row, left-right: Brothers Tim S. Jordan, P.M., Joseph Warren No. 726 and Worthy Patron, Youngsville O.E.S. Chapter No. 478; Thomas Carr, P.M.; William Slocum, P.M.; William Jenkins, P.M.; James Tuley, S.W.; Thomas Walters, P.M.; Richard Whaley, J.W.; and Ron Young, Purs., all of Stillwater Lodge No. 547.

Recipients of the Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award The Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award is an honor presented to members of a Masonic lodge who act as role models and provide dedicated service to the Boy Scouts of America.

Recipients are presented a neck medallion, purple and gold square knot patch and a certificate endorsed by the Grand Master. Honorees must be nominated for the award.

Bro. Greg Trisket received the Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award at the Stated Meeting of Joseph Warren Lodge No. 726 on Sept. 5, 2012.

The meeting was also attended by two earlier recipients of the award, Brothers M. Dennis Hedges and Robert J. Zimmerman.

Left-right: Brothers Douglas A. White, W.M.; Greg N. Trisket, award recipient; and John W. Hawk, D.D.G.M. for District 33, who presented the award.

At the stated meeting of Mount Moriah Lodge No. 300, Huntington, on Oct. 8, 2012, Bro. Travis C. Cramer received the Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award. Bro. Cramer was recommended for the award by Bro. Raymond D. “Mike” Kemp, Pursuivant of the lodge and Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 25, Huntingdon, who assisted with the presentation.

Left-right: Brothers James A. Ardrey, P.M., W.M.; Travis C. Cramer, award recipient; Raymond D. “Mike” Kemp, Pursuivant, Recommender; and Robert C. Snyder II, D.D.G.M. for District 34.

On Friday, Oct. 12, 2012, Bro. Henry Sinopoli, Ed.D., Victory Lodge No. 694, Butler, received the Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award. Past recipients of the award were present for the ceremony.

Left to right: Bro. Dennis Rickard, Victory Lodge No. 694, Butler; Bros.

Ray Laurent and Gerald Wetzel, Butler Lodge No. 272; Bro. Richard Bates, Lodge of the Craft Westminster Lodge No. 433, New Castle; Bro. Harold McWhertor, Ellwood Lodge No. 599, Ellwood City; Jocelyn Sinopoli, wife of Bro. Henry Sinopoli; Bro. Henry Sinopoli, Victory Lodge No. 694; Raymond H. Tennet IV, Scout Executive, Moraine Trails; Bro. George Orr, Lodge of the Craft Westminster Lodge; and Bro. Wayne Frankenstein, D.D.G.M. for District 26. Photo by Bro. James J. Knights, Harmony Lodge No. 429.

FREEMASON 21

February 2013

Memories of a Masonic Motocycle A journey is often measured in miles, but for a 100-year-old motocycle (without an “r”), the journey includes memories, friendship and an unexpected Masonic connection.

In 1913, 18-year-old Arthur D. Seib decided to buy a motocycle as an affordable mode of transportation to and from work. At a cost of $200 (which according the Bureau of Labor and Statistics’ Consumer Price Index inflation calculator, would cost $4,673.07 in 2012), Arthur purchased a model 30.50 single-cylinder red Indian Motocycle. Until World War I, Indian was the largest motocycle manufacturer in the world, producing more than 20,000 bikes per year.

According to current owner Bro. C. Thomas Mullen, Osceola Mills Lodge No. 515, Indian chose to market its two-wheel product as a “motocycle” because, as legend has it, the company felt the term “motorcycle” sounded too rough and rowdy. Bro. Mullen noted, though, his particular model of Indian motocycle incorporates a factory-installed, lever-operated “muffler cut-out,” which when activated, creates the thunderous roar often associated with motorcycles.

Arthur rode the motocycle from 1913 through 1916, when he removed the engine and other parts and placed everything into storage, later using the engine in a garden cultivator. He joined Keystone Lodge No. 455, Erie, (now Keystone-Perry Lodge No. 392) in 1920. Prior to his death in 1985, Bro.

Seib reassembled the motocycle, although it remained in storage.

Seventy years after Bro. Seib took the motocycle for its first ride, his daughter and son-in-law, Peggy and Bro. John Culbertson, Lodge No. 408, Meadville, contacted an Indian motocycle historian to restore it. The motocycle would later be put up for sale.

Bro. Mullen, who already owned an Indian bicycle, saw it advertised in a national antique motorcycle magazine and inquired about it.

“I’ve always liked antique vehicles and motorcycles,” he said. “They’re easier to take care of than a car. I fell in love as soon as I saw it. This one was unique in that Peggy and John were only the second owners. Usually, restored models from this era are made up of a dozen parts combined. This is very special.”

Bro. Mullen and his wife, Ginny, met with the Culbertsons, and without even asking, Peggy had a feeling Bro. Mullen was a Mason.

After learning her inclination was correct, she said, “I’m so glad a Mason is buying my father’s motocycle.” The two couples became friends through the experience and traveled together to auto shows, including the Franklin Mint, to display the motocycle. Peggy passed away on April 5, 2012. Bro. Mullen and Bro. Culbertson still stay in touch.

Although it looks much like a large bicycle, the 4-horsepower engine motocycle weighs about 380 lbs. It is in mint condition, and Bro. Mullen has all its original accessories

including the tire pump, squeeze horn, tool box, tire chains, original operator’s manual and “documented” agreement of sale. The “headlights,” or carbide lamps, were added at a later date and are operated by adding water and lighting them with a match.

The only change Bro. Mullen made to the motocycle was adding a 32˚ Masonic emblem to the rear wheel well to represent its Masonic history as he showcases it to other auto enthusiasts. “We wish that Bro. Seib could be here today to see his ‘Grand Old Indian,’” Bro. Mullen said.

A few of Bro. Mullen’s relatives were Masons which inspired him to join the fraternity in 1963. “I’ve always had a lot of respect for [Masons],” he said. “I enjoy the camaraderie and sharing the brotherhood.

It’s a nice way to meet people.”

His wife, Ginny, is a member of State College Chapter No. 388, Order of the Eastern Star.

“I’ve always admired members of my family who belonged to the Eastern Star,” she said. “I have my mother’s 50-year pin.”

Both retired, Bro. and Mrs. Mullen look forward to moving to the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown one day, where their motocycle will gain a whole new Masonic audience.

22 FREEMASON

Pennsylvania Freemason

Fernwood Lodge Exhibit at The Masonic Library & Museum of PA Knowing how important the Masonic fraternity was to her grandfather, Jeanne Robinson, granddaughter of the late Bro. Milton H. Davis, Worshipful Master of Fernwood Lodge No. 543, Philadelphia, in 1921, contacted the lodge’s secretary to return his Master’s Apron, collar, Past Master’s Jewel and dues card from 1914. Bro. Paul Pascucci, who has a summer home in Ocean City, N.J., where Ms. Robinson resides, met with her to receive the heirlooms.

When Bro. Pascucci returned with the heirlooms, the decision was made to contact The Masonic Library and Museum at the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia. Bro. Dennis Buttleman, Curator of the museum, suggested an exclusive Fernwood Lodge display. Additional items would include R.W. Past Grand Master Rochester B. Woodall’s Masonic Bible, which, until recently, graced the Altar of Fernwood Lodge; the original request for a charter to establish the lodge; and various anniversary items from around the turn of the 20th century.

On Nov. 8, 2012, the display was officially opened, and members of Fernwood Lodge were able to be there to see the case being presented. Ms. Robinson planned to attend the event, but due to Hurricane Sandy, was unable.

She did come to the Masonic Temple a week later and was moved to tears.

Left-right: Brothers Stephen E. McIlhenny, W.M., Fernwood Lodge No. 543; G. Kent Hackney, 33°, D.D.G.M. for Masonic District B; Dennis P. Buttleman, Jr., Curator of The Masonic Library and Museum of PA, Mozart Lodge No. 436, Philadelphia; and Marvin Mandel, P.M., incoming D.D.G.M. for Masonic District B.

“In His Own (w)Rite: Papers on the Scottish Rite and Philosophy of Freemasonry”

by Bro. Michael R. Poll • Reviewed by Cathy Giaimo, Assistant Librarian, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania

Bro. Michael R. Poll has compiled a book of his own writings and papers that he has presented to different Masonic bodies and journals over the past few years. His topics range from

early Scottish Rite history as it pertains to the Southern Masonic Jurisdiction and Louisiana, dyslexia and general musings on Freemasonry.

It is an eclectic group of writings that is never dull and always informative.

The reader is treated to some early Masonic history of Louisiana in chapters on “Albert Pike’s Address Before the Grand Consistory of Louisiana” and “James Foulhouze: a biographical study.” Albert Pike became the Grand Commander of the Grand Consistory of Louisiana in 1857 when he was practicing law in New Orleans, all during a time when there was much turmoil going on in the Masonic community of Louisiana.

James Foulhouze (1800-1875), was a contemporary of Pike and his “arch-nemesis” during Pike’s early years as Grand Commander of the Supreme Council, Southern Jurisdiction, according to Bro. Poll. Born in France, as a youth Foulhouze studied for the priesthood. He moved to Philadelphia around 1834 and worked in the Diocese of Philadelphia. Around 1843, he left that vocation to begin another in law and made his way to New Orleans. Several months after his arrival, Foulhouze became a member

of Los Amigos del Orden, a Spanish-speaking Scottish Rite lodge. He also caught the attention of important New Orleans Masons and began his rise to prominence. Eventually, he, too, was caught up in the middle of the Masonic storm swirling around Louisiana in the mid-1800s.

Not to be neglected are Bro. Poll’s thoughts on Freemasonry. Chapters such as “Quantity or Quality?” discuss that no matter the size or amount, it is the quality of the experience that matters in the end. “Integrity in Masonry” was originally a lecture given by the author in which he emphasizes the importance of truly understanding the meaning behind Masonic rituals, the lessons they impart and living one’s life with honor and integrity. The last chapter, “Apathy,” serves as a warning as well as an encouragement. If Freemasonry is to continue to grow, he states, its members must take charge of their futures and make the changes they see necessary.

For this and other books by Bro. Michael R. Poll, please contact the Library at 800-4620430, ext. 1933, or visit The Masonic Library & Museum on-line catalog at www.pagrandlodge.org.

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION 23

February 2013

Job’s Daughters Present HIKE Award

Shown with check: Jenny Chappell, Job’s Daughters Miss Congeniality of Pennsylvania and HIKE Chair, and Elliot, HIKE recipient This year, Pennsylvania Job’s Daughters were selected to present a Hearing Impaired Kids Endowment Fund (HIKE) award to Elliot of Shrewsbury, Pa. Elliot and his family joined the PA Job’s Daughters on their annual Hike for HIKE on the grounds of the Masonic

Village at Elizabethtown. Prior to the walk, HIKE coordinator Jenny Chappell presented Elliot with his larger than life check. “Elliot had been excited and been talking about getting to hold a giant check with his name on it for months now,” Elliot’s dad said.

The funds will be used to purchase a hearing system for his use at school, home and sports activities that allows him to hear the instructor or coach through surrounding noise. Elliot’s hearing problems resulted from chemo treatments he received as an infant to fight liver cancer. He was having difficulties hearing words in higher registers, which made things difficult and unsafe for him in crowded places. The school thankfully provided a system to eliminate these problems which worked very well, but since the school purchased it, it had to stay there. The EF system the HIKE funds provided will allow Elliot to hear clearly everywhere, not just at school. Elliot can now hear people talking to him more clearly in crowded places.

As a special part of the celebration, several of the Job’s Daughters signed the words to

the song “Fireworks” by Katy Perry, much to the delight of Elliot and his family!

HIKE is the philanthropy of Job’s Daughters International. The purpose of the fund is to provide hearing devices for children with hearing losses, newborn to 20 years of age, whose parents are unable to meet this special need financially. The fund has awarded many types of devices including, but not limited to, hearing aids, FM systems, closed caption converters, tactile units, alerting systems and specialized sports equipment to aid children with hearing loss in communication. An estimated 100 children in the United States and Canada receive hearing devices through this fund each year.

DeMolay Honors Supreme Tall Cedar

Pennsylvania DeMolay recognized one of its own on Dec. 1, 2012, when Supreme Tall Cedar Harvey “Bud” Willard was honored with a DeMolay Class named for him. Bro. Willard, a Senior DeMolay of Norristown Chapter and a Past Master of Norristown Lodge No. 620, is a Representative DeMolay, Chevalier, Active Legion of Honor and Honorary Member of DeMolay International.

He has visited many DeMolay Chapters over the past five years presenting the Past Master Councilor’s Meritorious Service Award that

is sponsored by the Supreme Forest of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon.

There were 23 members in the class, representing 10 DeMolay Chapters. The DeMolay weekend included the presentation of top-notch ritual performances from wellrehearsed degree teams made up of DeMolays from across the Commonwealth. The young men were also involved in a major dose of video games, movies, open gym time, board games, swimming and fun for everyone.

To commemorate the occasion, State

Master Councilor Alexander C. Rauschenberger presented the Supreme Tall Cedar with a check from Pennsylvania DeMolay for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, which is the charity of the Tall Cedars. Along with presenting special patents of membership to the new DeMolays, Bro. Willard presented commemorative Tall Cedar hats and pins to each of the new members. He also presented special donations to Parker Harley, a DeMolay from Lancaster Phoenix Chapter who is in need of a liver transplant.

24 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason

Grow-Grow-Growing PA Rainbow!

One of the ways PA Rainbow is growing is by adding new assemblies. At the new Temple Lodge in Macungie, an advisory board has been working hard to recruit girls to join a new assembly. On April 7, 2013, there will be an Institution meeting at the lodge building, during which the Grand Officers will perform the ceremony of instituting the assembly.

Afterward, there will be the Initiation of new members, and Mrs. Helen Snedden, Supreme Deputy, will then declare the assembly as Lehigh Valley No. 190 LT (letters temporary).

On March 10, 2013, there will be a ceremony to renew Carlisle Assembly No. 81. The process of moving an active charter to the Carlisle Masonic Center has begun.

The Advisory Board is meeting and recruiting members for the Pledge Group and Assembly.

PA Rainbow is also working toward reopening Harmony No. 74 at Wyoming. The Assembly closed last year, but the Advisory Board has regrouped and is working with the Peace Pledge Group to officially reopen later in the spring.

Keep Calm, and Support Masonic Youth!

In addition, the number of leadership roles, skills and responsibilities of the Grand Officers of PA Rainbow are growing. The Grand Worthy Advisor plans her entire year, including naming a charity of her choice and a membership incentive. Grand Charity is responsible for raising funds for the statewide charity, My Stuff Bags Foundation, which provides children separated from their families due to abuse, neglect or abandonment with new belongings and hope. The other Grand Line officers must completely plan a weekend at the Patton campus in Elizabethtown. This committee is chaired by Grand Hope and Grand Faith. Grand Drill Leader leads ice breakers each Patton Weekend to make it easier for everyone to meet new friends from across the state. Grand Chaplain is responsible for giving the worship service during the Patton weekends. The messages from these Grand Officers have been so meaningful to all and have shown personal growth for the Grand Chaplains. Last summer, at Grand Assembly, the Sunday Worship Service was fully handled

by then-Grand Chaplain Angela Lennox.

Membership continues to grow from “the bottom up.” The number of Pledge groups has grown to 21 groups with 75-100 pledge girls. PA Rainbow’s future looks bright as it welcomes its Pledges into Rainbow when they turn 11 and become “real” Rainbow Girls!

To show his support for the Masonic youth groups, R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith has scheduled a series of dates and events across the state to meet with local youth groups and talk about what motivates them to be active in their youth program.

During these visits, Grand Master Smith will give each youth a special coin, like an old-time pocket piece, that the youth group members can carry as a reminder of their ritual teachings.

The obverse of the coin depicts the rays of the sun rising over the mountains, emblazoned with a Latin motto and supported by an adult hand, holding up a child’s hand. The motto is familiar to all who have looked at the cornice above the Senior Warden’s station in Corinthian Hall at the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia. The reverse side of the coin bears the seal of Grand Master Smith.

The coin was designed by Bro. Matthew Blaisdell, Past State Master Councilor for PA DeMolay and a member of Riverside Lodge No. 503, Wrightsville.

The Latin motto, “fide et fiducia,” can be translated to mean “by fidelity and confidence” or “in faith and trust.” Either translation serves as a reminder to our youth that, if they are faithful to the principles of their organization, they can earn the confidence of others and be seen as trustworthy and deserving of friendship, employment and the good opinion of society.

Now that’s a Masonic principle worth sharing with our youth!

“Fide et fiducia” is a well-known and well-respected Latin motto. It can be found on numerous European family crests. It was the motto of the Royal Army Pay Corps and was on the distinctive insignia designed for the 93rd Evacuation Hospital in 1942. The 93rd was involved in eight European campaigns in World War II. The 93rd also deployed to Vietnam, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

MASONIC VILL AGES 25

February 2013

Check out our new website! www.masonicvillages.org

Enjoy Life Your Way at a Masonic Village!

Masonic Village at Dallas

Enjoy total maintenance-free living in 2013 with a new villa at Masonic Village at Dallas! Our “Guaranteed Appreciation” plans are better options than real estate because you, your estate or your beneficiary are guaranteed increasing equity on your villa and enjoy other value-added benefits, such as health care security, grounds maintenance, a home-for-life guarantee and much more!

Select villas are available immediately.

Don’t miss out on these incentives: • Customize your villa with features such as hardwood flooring, tile, granite, stainless steel appliances and more at no additional cost, or receive a $20,000 marketing allowance in lieu of custom home features.

• Enjoy an additional $20,000 off the entrance fee for specific villa locations.

If you’re not quite ready for a new address, sign up for the apartment waiting list.

Save these Dates: Real Estate Seminar: March 7, at 10 a.m., in the Irem Clubhouse Financial Planning Seminar: April 18, at 10 a.m., in the Irem Clubhouse Healthier Selves in 2013 Seminar and Walking Tours: May 16, at 10 a.m., in the Irem Clubhouse Questions? Interested in learning more?

Plan to attend one of the events above? Contact our Marketing Office toll-free at 866-851-4243.

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown

In the spring, Masonic Village at Elizabethtown will break ground for more cottages in the Garfield, Harding and Polk

Drive neighborhood. If the need exists, this area of campus could include up to 100 cottages. You can reserve your brand new home in this neighborhood immediately!

If you’re interested in the Sycamore Apartments, you may want to take advantage of the new modified entrance fee plan. Under this plan, entrance fees for all Sycamore accommodations will be reduced by 50 percent!

While monthly service fees under the modified plan will increase moderately, we created this plan because individuals were looking for an option that required less investment up front to move into a luxurious one-, two-, or two-bedroom/den apartment.

We also have extended our $10,000 monthly fee incentive for select two-bedroom apartments so you can move in to your new home and not pay a monthly service fee for several months.

Save the Date: Guided Bus Tours: March 26, meet in the Freemasons Cultural Center Reservations are required. For more information, call the Marketing Office tollfree today: 800-676-6452

Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill

Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill plans to add 45 brand new apartments to its already thriving campus. The new homes will feature one- and two-bedroom layouts, a patio or balcony, granite countertops, stainless steel kitchen appliances, walk-in closets and a washer/dryer. The 60,000+ sq. ft. addition will provide convenient indoor access to amenities and activities throughout the campus, as well as common areas and an interior courtyard

for residents’ enjoyment.

Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill also plans to take on a new look as an integral part of our planned expansion, which will include renovating the building’s existing façade to create a more contemporary appearance.

Save these Dates for Upcoming Open Houses: March 21 April 16 May 23 For more information about these brand new apartments, call 610-828-5760.

Masonic Village at Sewickley

Cast away your concerns, and discover a carefree lifestyle with 60 acres of amenities at Masonic Village at Sewickley. Experience Pittsburgh’s cultural, recreational and educational options just 10 miles away, and return to the safety and serenity of the suburbs in time for sunset.

Apartments and villas in numerous floor plans provide a home as unique as you. Your needs come first, so enjoy financial security with one monthly service fee. As a Lifecare community, Masonic Village at Sewickley provides the ultimate protection of your assets.

Save the Dates: Lunch and Learn: Feb. 28, at 11 a.m., in the Clubhouse Real Estate Seminar: March 20, at 10 a.m., in the Clubhouse Flower Show: April 24, at 10 a.m., in the Clubhouse Wellness Fair: May 30, in the Clubhouse For more information or to register to attend one of the events above, contact our Marketing Office toll-free at 866-872-0664.

26 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

Happy 100th Birthday, Masonic Children’s Home!

For children growing up in an unstable environment, finding a secure home with love, support and guidance is life-changing. Since 1913, Pennsylvania Freemasons have provided a safe haven and changed the lives of 2,092 children at the Masonic Children’s Home.

A lot can be said about the powerful impact of the children’s home, and no one says it better than those who have directly benefited from its services (last names have been omitted to protect privacy): “I know I have more opportunities here than what I would have had before moving to the children’s home,” Aba, age 11, said.

“The children’s home molded me into who I am today. The staff’s and other children’s love, dedication and care gave me a sense of family and became my family. I have relationships and memories that will last a lifetime because of them,” Dana, a children’s home alumna, said.

“The move here was pretty urgent,” Loren, the grandmother of three residents and one alumna of the children’s home, said.

“It was almost like there was a guardian angel looking after us.”

The Masonic Children’s Home looks much different than it did in 1913. The care it provides to children struggling to get a good start in life does not. Youth enjoy the chance to have fun, learn important life lessons, experience the love of others and grow up to become successful adults.

Generous donors have enabled the Masonic Children’s Home to evolve and grow to accommodate children and their families. A $10 million Masonic Children’s Home Centennial Campaign is aiming to ensure this care continues for another 100 years and beyond.

This year will be filled with celebration

and appreciation for everyone who has been a part of the Masonic Children’s Home over the last century. Plans include a special Youth Appreciation Day in May to recognize youth for their academic and extracurricular achievements and honor graduating seniors; an alumni picnic in June; and a centennial dinner, program and worship service in October.

HISTORY & BACKGROUND OF THE MASONIC CHILDREN’S HOME A Plain and Unavoidable Duty After establishing the Masonic Homes in Elizabethtown (known as the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown since 2004, and the term used henceforth in this article) in 1910 for the frail and elderly, Pennsylvania Freemasons became aware of another need in the community. They felt an unavoidable duty to provide for the maintenance, development and education of orphaned children. The original vision of Masonic Village’s leadership was to shelter children and their widowed parent. On Nov. 12, 1913, Edith H. De Vore, widow of Bro. William H. De Vore, Bellevue Lodge No. 530, now Avalon Lodge No. 657, Pittsburgh, and her four children moved to the Masonic Villages. By 1914, 20 children from newborn to age 6 lived at the Village.

Evolution of Caring for Children The Masonic Children’s Home has evolved over the years to adjust to a changing society.

While the home initially welcomed widowed parents and children, many of the children moved in without parents, so by 1916, the policy changed to only accept children. After the end of World War I, to accommodate an

increasing number of orphans, the children’s home expanded. In 1920, 26 boys and 16 girls, ages 4 to 17, resided in the home. The population peaked at 118 in 1930.

The children came from all types of homes; many suffered the loss of both parents and reached the Village under-nourished and in impaired health. A physician examined the children upon arrival and suggested a care plan. When they were not in school, the youth volunteered outdoors working in the orchards, nurseries, fields, shops and barns to learn about agriculture, horticulture, gardening and fruit culture. Tending to their own garden not only provided the children with recreation and purpose, but it taught important skills and responsibility.

Masonic Village established libraries in each of the children’s homes so youth could expand their knowledge and enjoy reading. Children also benefited from private tutoring. In the early 1920s, a trust fund of $50,000, called the Higher Education Fund, was anonymously donated to assist children who wanted to pursue higher education.

Through the Masonic Charities, the fund continues to grow and support students today.

Youth had access to playgrounds, a Maypole, tennis courts, roller skating rink and a pool. The boys participated in Boy Scouts, and the girls learned to cook, bake, sew and do general housework.

By 1942, due to increased government aid which enabled more children to remain in their homes, the population dropped to 60. Masonic Village transformed several of the children’s homes into residences for aging adults, a need which was increasing. During World War II, youth worked at various areas on campus to cover for employees who went

MASONIC VILL AGES 27

February 2013

to war. They picked apples, peaches and beans, worked at the power plant, helped in the Philadelphia Freemasons’ Memorial Hospital (now the Masonic Health Care Center) and laundry room and waited on tables in the dining room.

Psychological and social services were added to the program in the 1980s. As of 1983, the children’s home had a licensed capacity for 56 children. The children could take part in all of the social and religious functions available to adult residents, and the two groups had a mutually beneficial relationship.

An independent living program, which began in 1984, gave older adolescents increased responsibility and decision-making power while still remaining in the supportive safety net of the Village. The program established levels of independence and introduced youth to the realities of living outside the children’s home residential buildings.

In 1994, Masonic Village renovated

and expanded three existing homes which employees had occupied over the years into residences for the children. A new duplex was built between two of the homes. Each of the five cottages had a family room with a fireplace, living area, double and single bedrooms, a recreation room and a computer and study center which all contributed to a more home-like atmosphere.

The Masonic Children’s Home in 2013 Evolving to better serve the needs of today’s children, the Masonic Children’s Home cares for up to 40 school-age children. Child care workers provide oversight and guidance, serve nutritious home-cooked meals and ensure the well-being of each child. The youth receive clothing, complete medical care and academic tutoring. They attend the Elizabethtown Area School District, programs conducted

by Intermediate Unit 13 and the Lancaster County Career and Technology Center. After graduation, they have the opportunity to

pursue higher education supported by the Masonic Charities and the Masonic Homes/ Patton School Alumni Association.

Children participate in activities through the local recreation center, scholastic sports, music or dance lessons, and the religious worship of their choice. They enjoy on-campus basketball and tennis courts, play areas and swimming pools, wellness competitions and the Siblings Program, among other activities.

Youth interact with Masonic Village residents through an Adopt-a-Grandparent program, art lessons and volunteering to help with snow removal and other tasks.

The Masonic Children’s Home is funded through generous contributions to the Masonic Village. No charges are made to individuals, organizations or any units of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or federal government for services.

Committed to Caring for Children Carol Jacobson is active in her community and in all aspects of her life. She is very involved in her church, participates in a singles’ club and enjoys kayaking, dancing, going to the theatre and visiting her daughter in New York several times a year. She is also in the gym four days a week, giving her the energy to keep busy.

“For some people, retirement means sitting in a chair,” Carol said. “I haven’t sat in a chair yet!”

Being so young at heart, it’s no surprise that Carol would empathize with and want to support children.

Carol’s first husband joined the Masonic fraternity in 1976 while the couple lived in New York. Bro. Richard Williams was a 33˚ Mason and active on his lodge’s degree team, and he was a Shriner. Inspired by the organization’s charity and generosity, Carol joined the Order of the Eastern Star. When she moved to Pennsylvania with her second husband, she transferred her membership to Phoenix Chapter No. 15, Smethport.

“I admire all the good things the Order of the Eastern Star and Masons do for everyone, not just Brothers and Sisters,” she said. “They’re involved in a lot of things in the community – like the work for the Shriners Hospitals.

If you’re in need, there is a chapter or lodge ready to help you.”

After retiring, she moved to North Carolina

in 1999 and enjoys attending the local Shriners parade and supporting other Masonic activities.

The charity of the Masonic fraternity in Pennsylvania has remained close to her heart over the years. She didn’t even need to visit the Masonic Villages or Masonic Children’s Home in Elizabethtown to know she wanted to name both charities in her will. She also named the children’s home as a beneficiary of her Individual Retirement Account.

“Masonic [Villages] does very good work and the children’s home is just something that is very important to me,” she said. “A lot of children’s homes have closed over the years, and it is great Masons still do things to help underprivileged kids.”

She has always known that one day she’d like to move to an Order of the Eastern Star long-term care community, Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, in particular. She is planning to attend Autumn Day or one of the Masonic Children’s Home centennial events in 2013 to see the community up close. The Homes Grown Kids newsletter has been keeping her up-to-date on news and events at the children’s home, as well as a wish list, which she appreciates.

“It is a real, real good organization that does good things for children,” she said. “Where I can, I will continue to support it.”

28 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

MASONIC VILLAGES = Mission of

Our Masonic Villages have rung in the New Year, as always, by facing and embracing new opportunities and challenges in our pursuit of excellence. Our goal is to actively look for opportunities to strengthen our services by finding creative ways to continue our strong mission of caring and providing services for children and adults while staying true to our core Masonic values – remaining focused on serving those who cannot afford to pay.

The Challenges We Face Are Not Unique

A recent survey of 800 organizations conducted by the United Way of Pennsylvania revealed that 38 percent of nonprofit and human services groups in the Commonwealth are eliminating programs, 48 percent are reducing hours, and 35 percent are turning away people seeking assistance due to state budget cuts. Nearly 70 percent of the groups surveyed are experiencing hardship from the cuts, and nearly half of the respondents also saw federal funding slashed this year.

United Way of Pennsylvania President Tony Ross said that the problem is compounded by an increase in demand for things like housing help, medical services and food due to the struggling economy.

When faced by obstacles like these, many service providers will go out of business or “right size” to eliminate Medicaid beds, leaving people who need services but don’t have family to care for them with nowhere to turn.

New Staff Leaders to Support Our Mission

Ms. Jennifer Schwalm joined the Masonic Villages as chief mission development officer to help find new and creative ways to remain centers of excellence and maintain our Mission in this ever-changing fiscal and health care environment. She will assist our Masonic Villages in the evaluation, development and implementation of efficiencies and strategic initiatives to support our core mission. She will also serve as Masonic Villages’ liaison with outside organizations interested in pursuing project developments, mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures or consulting services that will support our Mission.

“Having worked with Masonic Villages in various capacities for more than 10 years, I have always viewed Masonic Villages and its impressive Mission as a leader in senior services,” Ms. Schwalm said. “I am excited to be a part of this dynamic team intent on securing and expanding the Mission.” (continued on p. 30) Ms. Jennifer Schwalm, Chief Mission Development Officer, Masonic Villages

Board Members Bro. Adam Heese, P.M., Melita Lodge No. 295, Philadelphia, is the newest member of Masonic Villages’ board of directors. A Certified Public Accountant, he is a Senior Tax Specialist for Air Products & Chemicals, Inc., Allentown. He and his wife, Kelly, have two young children. He volunteers his time to help lead the charity in its Mission work.

Staff Indeera Ennis, Housekeeping Supervisor, voluntarily wears many hats at Masonic Village at Warminster. She comes in on her free time, too, to enrich residents’ lives.

Mission Children Jasmine, a resident of the Masonic Children’s Home, has an opportunity to succeed in life because of our Mission. We can only imagine the productive woman she will someday become!

MASONIC VILL AGES 29

February 2013

Love Built Upon Masonic Heritage What Makes Our Masonic Villages Unique

Donors

Our strong Masonic heritage and our commitment that regardless of the challenges we encounter, our Mission of Love must prevail to care for those in need is, indeed, unique in today’s world. For 142 years, Pennsylvania Masons have been focused on caring for people without the ability to pay. Masonic Villages’ board of directors remains steadfast in honoring and continuing that tradition, regardless of the economic and health care environments.

This commitment can be honored and implemented because of the selfless generosity of our dedicated donors – those willing to give their hard-earned money because they believe that people should be treated with caring hands, loving hearts and unquestionable dignity regardless of their financial means.

Bro. Ken and Elaine Bleiler, Masonic Village residents, give selflessly of themselves and their resources to benefit the Bleiler Caring Cottage, which honors their generosity and vision.

Residents Brothers Tracy Miller and David Rihl, residents of the Masonic Village at Sewickley, have for years helped to coordinate the annual Enchanted Evening event for ladies in the personal care and nursing services areas of the campus.

of Love

Volunteers Brandyn Snyder, a youth volunteer at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, learns about health care professions while sharing his time enhancing residents’ lives.

What to Expect in the New Year

According to estimates by the Congressional Research Service, nearly a quarter of the nation’s elderly population – over seven million people – have some form of disability for which they require assistance such as help with bathing, dressing, eating, preparing meals or taking medicine. As the 76 million baby boom generation ages, its demand for long-term care will increase accordingly. Boomers’ long-term care needs are predicted to range from two to four times that of today’s elderly.

“We are living longer, and Medicare and Medicaid services are declining,” said Bro. Joseph E. Murphy, Chief Executive Officer for the Masonic Villages. “Our needs are different, and so may be our preferences: some may be comfortable with nursing home care, where others may insist on home and community-based services for as long as possible. This is why offering both long-term care and home and community based services will be vital for our continued success to meet our Mission of services to, and on behalf of, our great fraternity.”

Over the years, as Masons and their families have requested retirement or long-term care services at different locations, as well as home and community-based services in their current homes, Masonic Villages has worked to expand our Mission services to accommodate these needs. In order to provide convenient services in more communities to be closer to members of our family of Freemasonry, we have found that serving others – our friends and neighbors – on behalf of Freemasonry, as well, allows us to be efficient and prudent in our operations. It also helps to show our commitment to quality and values of the Masonic fraternity.

30 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

New Staff Leaders to Support Our Mission

(continued from p. 29) Prior to joining Masonic Villages’ leadership team, Ms. Schwalm was a partner with ParenteBeard overseeing the Senior Living Services Consulting Group. Her career also included approximately 12 years at KPMG in the senior living services practice. She brings more than 20 years of experience in the benchmarking and identification of “best practice” solutions related to operations, development and regulatory issues; facilitating merger and acquisition transactions; and participating in due diligence engagements. She earned a bachelor of science in business administration degree from Shippensburg University and is a certified public accountant in Pennsylvania.

At the Masonic Village at Warminster, we are pleased to welcome Maureen Reisinger as executive director. Ms. Reisinger comes to us with more than 27 years of long-term care leadership experience, most recently having served as senior administrator for Saint Martha Manor/Villa Saint Martha in Downingtown. A licensed nursing home administrator, Ms. Reisinger holds a bachelor’s degree in health planning and administration from Penn State.

We are also pleased to announce that Kelly Weaver has joined us as assistant executive director at the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill. A licensed nursing home administrator, Ms. Weaver earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from DeSales University and her master’s degree in counseling psychology and human service from Chestnut Hill College. Prior to joining Masonic Village, she worked for nine years at Manatawny Manor, Pottstown, Pa., most recently as executive director.

We thank Ms. Anne Maher and Ms. Lorraine Lardani, who served for many years as Executive Director of the Masonic Village at Warminster and Administrator of Health Care Services at Lafayette Hill, respectively, for their dedicated leadership and wish them both a happy and healthy retirement.

Ms. Maureen Reisinger, Executive Director, Masonic Village at Warminster

Ms. Kelly Weaver, Assistant Executive Director, Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill

Check Us Out

On Jan. 1, 2013, the Masonic Villages unveiled a modernized branding initiative to embrace and promote an identity that is unique, meaningful and recognizable, demonstrating our organization’s Masonic heritage and strong mission. By discussing the concept with various groups of current and prospective residents, staff, donors, volunteers and community members, we modified our logo to symbolize the many things important to our customers: the Eden Alternative® philosophy of caring for our residents; our commitment to environmental stewardship; our goals to provide a lifestyle that offers security, a brighter future, comfort and tranquility; our strong “roots,” (history); and our efforts to “branch out” and pursue continued growth.

Our new slogan, “Enjoy Life Your Way,” reflects the promise our organization makes to strive for excellence in every area of our operations by offering a choice of quality services for each unique individual to enjoy the highest quality of life.

As part of these efforts, we have updated our website, www.masonicvillages.org, and will continue to expand and improve upon it to strengthen our marketing, gift planning and communications efforts.

MASONIC VILL AGES 31

February 2013

Qty. Capital Need Masonic Village at Elizabethtown 10 Card tables Massages or Healing Touch for pain 4 Alarming floor mats 3 Pulse oximeters 10 Locking systems for new beds 2 Temporal thermometers 24 Wheelchair cushions - specialty 5 Ipads 6 Thermometers 3 Digital blood pressure monitors 10 Specialty mattresses 5 Electric lift recliner 6 TVs - living rooms 15 Wheelchairs - specialty w/customization 3 Low beds 5 Wheelchairs - Broda 1 Ceiling lift 1 Vital sign machine 2 Blanket warmer 1 MVTV software & hardware 2 NPWT machines (wound care) 1 Hearing aid loop 1 It’s Never 2 Late 1 Treadmill for Rehab Dept.

Musical instruments Bleiler Caring Cottage Wi Fi (monthly fee) 1 Blu-ray player 1 10-foot step ladder 1 Gas grill 1 Exercise bike 1 Carpet sweeper (Dyson) 1 Washer/dryer set 1 Refrigerator 1 Gazebo Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill 28 Television 1 Flat-screen TV and Wii system Spirit of Philadelphia lunch cruise outing Harvest Ball event Drama lessons/activities for residents Baltimore Aquarium w/lunch and transportation 1 Sit-to-stand lift, power base 1 NuStep machine 1 It’s Never Too Late Masonic Village at Sewickley 1 Photosmart compact printer w/extra cartridges 1 Hand rail tilt and roll scale 2 Outdoor tent (size 20 x 20) 1 ARJO sit-to-stand lift 1 4-channel e-stimulation (electric) 1 ARJO Maxi lift Occupancy sensors for apartment hallway

Cost per Item $35 $65 $100 $125 $250 $425 $500 600 $650 $750 $1,000 $1,200 $1,300 $1,500 $1,600 $2,100 $2,500 $3,200 $3,400 $4,000 $6,000 $8,000 $10,000 $10,200 $5-$500 $40 $100 $100 $300 $450 $500 $1,200 $1,300 $2,500 $400 $1,229 $1,950 $2,500 $3,000 $3,150 $3,500 $6,000 $24,000 $250 $1,550 $1,800 $4,100 $4,400 $7,400 $20,000

MASONIC VILLAGES’

2013

WISH LIST ITEMS OFFICE OF GIFT PLANNING

800-599-6454

Thank you to the following individuals who have provided for the following items since the printing of the November issue: Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Bro. Robert Duckett: TV Bro. Richard Holt: Camel lift device and blanket warmers Bro. Jeffrey and Nancy Hoyt: Wheelchairs Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill Anonymous: TVs Concordia Lodge No. 67: Wind Jammer machine Lodge No. 2: Stand-up garden Masonic Village at Warminster Anonymous: Stereo system for Dining Room Mitchell Lodge No. 296: Wheelchairs There is an all-inclusive wish list posted on the Masonic Charities website at MasonicCharitiesPA.org, or feel free to contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454.

Please note that if funds donated for any item listed are over subscribed, the funds will be used for additional wish list items or needs in the same service area.

Lifetime GUARANTEED

INCOME

WHAT IS IT?

 A “Charitable Gift Annuity”—a special type of charitable gift that pays donors for life.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?  Guaranteed, fixed lifetime income.  Tax savings.

WHO HAS PARTICIPATED?  Hundreds of Masonic and non-Masonic donors.

WHY?  Benefits the donor and Masonic Charities!

WHAT ARE THE MINIMUMS?  $5,000 gift in cash or appreciated securities.  Age 65.

WHERE CAN I GET INFORMATION?  Call Masonic Charities at 800-599-6454, or mail the attached reply form.

SAMPLE GUARANTEED LIFETIME RATES For One Life For Two Lives Age Rate Age Rate 70 5.1% 70 & 75 4.8% 75 5.8% 75 & 80 5.3% 77 6.2% 85 & 85 6.7% 81 7.0% 85 & 90 7.3% 85 7.8% 90 & 90 8.2% 90+ 9.0% Note: This is a partial listing. Rates exist for any combination of ages.

Please Complete and Mail this Form to:

Office of Gift Planning, One Masonic Dr., Elizabethtown, PA 17022 or call 800-599-6454 or email giving@masonicvillages.org I would like more information, with no obligation. Please:  Send me a benefits illustration.

My birth date____________ Spouse’s birth date__________ (if two lives) Dollar amount(s) to be illustrated (up to three amounts) _________ _________________________ If using appreciated stock, estimate cost basis _____________________________________________________  Call me to answer my questions.

Name___________________________________________________________________ Address________________________________________________________________ Phone__________________________________________________________________ Email___________________________________________________________________ Financial information about Masonic Charities can be obtained by contacting us at 1-800-5996454. 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.