Village Voice - Fall 2012

VillageVoice www.masonicvillagespa.org

Fall 2012 Vol. 22, No. 4

In this Issue

Serving Up New Dining Options & Fresh Living Spaces p. 7

Autumn Day 2012.............................................................................p. 3 Staff Spotlight: Deb Polonoli ............................................................p. 4 Masonic Village Home Care Services...............................................p. 4 On the Road with Bill Riggle...........................................................p. 5 How the Reilly’s Garden Grows.......................................................p. 6 Empowering Lives Through Technology. . ..................................p. 8 Tech Tips...........................................................................................p. 9 Village Happenings..................................................................pp. 10-11 Health Update..................................................................................p. 12 Exploring Fit Possibilities..............................................................p. 12 Active Aging Includes Many Journeys, Many Destinations..........p. 13 Marking 80 Years with 100 Miles..................................................p. 13 A Renewed Focus on Hope, Joy, Growth, Life & Energy.............p. 14 Masonic Villages’ Wish List...........................................................p. 15 Home Sweet Home........................................................................ p. 16 Memorial Gifts....................................................................... pp. 17-18 Honorarium Gifts...........................................................................p. 19 Hospice Care Memorial Gifts.........................................................p. 19 Masonic Charities New Website....................................................p. 19

A publication of the Masonic Villages of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania

Village Voice

A message from

Fall 2012 The Village Voice is published four times per year.

The Masonic Villages, which include the Masonic Village at Dallas, the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, the Masonic Village at Sewickley and the Masonic Village at Warminster, are owned and operated by the Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and ice cream Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania.

Members of: LeadingAge LeadingAgePA Kairos Health Systems Masonic Communities and Services Association

Admissions to the Masonic Villages are governed by the Committee on Masonic Homes, members of which are elected by the Grand Lodge. The Committee on Masonic Homes approves or disapproves applications for admission primarily on the basis of need. Decisions concerning admission, the provision of services and referrals of residents are not based upon the applicant’s race, color, religion, disability, ancestry, national origin, familial status, age, sex, limited English proficiency or any other protected status.

The Masonic Villages is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Village Voice Staff

Debra L. Davis editor/public relations coordinator, Elizabethtown Editorial Board Louisa West administrative assistant, Lafayette Hill Karen Hammond activities supervisor/concierge, Sewickley

R

Joseph E. Murphy, N.H.A., chief executive officer

arely, it seems, is there a month, week or even day without an official designation: World Alzheimer’s Month in September, Home Care and Hospice Month in November, Active Aging Week Sept. 23-29 and Grandparents Day on Sept. 9. Who could forget International Talk Like a Pirate Day on Sept. 19?

At Masonic Villages, we realize it is important to recognize special causes, services and people not just one day, week or month out of the year, but to remain constantly focused on who and what needs our help and attention. For example, in Elizabethtown, the Piecemakers meet weekly to quilt blankets, place mats and more. Over the summer, several members donated quilted wall hangings to www.alzquilts.org/masonic.html in support of Alzheimer’s research (read the full article in the summer 2012 Village Voice). This will be an ongoing effort. In Sewickley, residents volunteer at the Masonic Village Child Care Center and participate in intergenerational programs throughout the year. In Lafayette Hill, a former employee returned to offer wellness programs for people of all fitness levels (see p. 12).

And, of course, there are many efforts, events and programs which are not based upon any established week, month or day (see some photos on pp. 10 -11). In Warminster, residents and staff held an end-of-summer boardwalk-themed party complete with food, music and games. They’ve also celebrated the music of Lawrence Welk and the moon landing with an extraterrestrial-inspired party. In Dallas, residents hold an annual block party to celebrate summer and a meet and greet to welcome new residents to the community. In Elizabethtown, a three-day County Fair in the Masonic Health Care Center, complete with exhibit judging, animals and games, led up to Autumn Day. One resident wrote the poem below thanking staff for the wonderful memories.

A beautiful and moving tribute, the Massing of the Colors memorial flag display (volunteers set up last year’s display in the photo to the right) will be returning to the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s Veterans Grove Nov. 5 through Nov. 14.

Please visit the display at your convenience, including at night when it will be lit, or join us for the following events: 1. Massing of the Colors Memorial Flag Installation Opening Ceremony Monday, Nov. 5, at 1:30 p.m. in the Veterans Grove 2. Veterans Day Program - Sunday, Nov. 11, at 2 p.m., with prelude beginning at 1:30 p.m. in the Brossman Ballroom 3. Massing of the Colors Memorial Flag Closing Ceremony - Wednesday, Nov. 14, at 1:30 p.m. in the Veterans Grove While we may not acknowledge Talk Like a Pirate Day, Masonic Villages has a lot of other reasons to celebrate: the gifts each day provides, those who share their gifts and those who are grateful to receive them.

Sincerely,

Cynthia B. Hollinger volunteers director, Elizabethtown Trisha Lamb activities director, Warminster

Thank You

Linda Tressler executive assistant, human resources, Elizabethtown NEXT DEADLINE: Submissions for the winter issue of the Village Voice are due Nov. 23.

Suggestions and submissions for consideration can be sent to: Public Relations Department Masonic Village One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022 or emailed to pr@masonicvillagespa.org For more information, call 717-367-1121, ext. 33529.

I just went to the fair And saw many of my friends there The music was great And Oh! What I ate No other day can compare.

Ice cream and cotton candy Funnel cake oh so dandy My taste buds were singing Like bells that were ringing All of this so near and handy,

Games of skill to try our hand.

Guessing games at another stand Tickets to win Brought a great grin The prizes were simply grand.

Much fun was had at the dunk tank Thank goodness not one of the men sank But they all did get wet Much to their regret All the ball throwers we do thank.

On the cover: Jenna Benjamin, server, in front of the Grand Lodge Hall Dining Room.

Photo by Rich Johnson, creative director.

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by Ella Reiner

The Village Voice • Fall 2012

Romy Mendoza, an Adult Daily Living Center participant, takes aim at the dunk tank, while Kirk Rakos, therapeutic recreation supervisor, anticipates a plunge.

This poem is to thank you all Who planned these three days in the fall We had a great time The weather was fine These days we will surely recall.

B

eautiful weather combined with delicious food, music, clowns, classic cars, model trains, farm animals, kids’ games and activities, and hand-made merchandise led to a picture perfect Autumn Day on Saturday, Sept. 22. Thousands visited the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown to reunite with friends and family, tour the campus and learn more about Masonic family organizations. Thanks to everyone who came from across the state and all who helped the festivities run smoothly!

Say c

heese

Right, Walter DePrefontaine, Erdean Ross, and Juanita and David Keesey take a break as the festivities wind down.

!

Wally Wright, of the Rooster’s Corner Woodworkers, displays one of his handcrafted items for sale.

Banjo Bob plays a melody for Kathryn Webster, of Rainbow Girls Morrisville Assembly No. 107, and resident Jean Herb.

Amanda Hertzog, nursing assistant, paints the face of her sister, Allison. Both are daughters of Laura Hertzog, nurse manager.

Sniffles makes a balloon animal for Mackenzie Peterman, who attends the Masonic Village Child Care Center’s Kids Camp in the summer.

Residents from Lafayette Hill came out for the day (l-r): Christian Reynolds, Eleanor Rankin, Lois Reynolds, Nona Chern, Don Sirianni, George Gilson and Jane Strock.

Young visitors greet a few of Masonic Village farm’s finest cattle.

The Masonic Village and Elizabethtown Model Railroad Club welcomed train enthusiasts inside for a closer look.

Enjoy the Fall Harvest at the Farm Market We grow over 50 varieties of apples: Honeycrisp, Fuji, Jonagold, McIntosh, Stayman Winesap and many others.

Decorate your home with beautiful hardy mums, pumpkins, corn shucks, Indian corn and much more.

MasonicVillage FARM MARKET

Looking for ideas for the holidays? Many items can be shipped anywhere in the USA. View our catalog at MVFarmmarket.com or call us at 717-361-4520.

Hours: Mon. - Sat., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Located on Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s campus

The Village Voice • Fall 2012

Follow us on Facebook to see what’s in season

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Staff Spotlight: Deb Polonoli, home care R.N. coordinator

Managing and Living From the Heart I

t is not often a child declares his or her future career and remains steadfast in through her interactions with our that declaration as an adult. For Deb Polonoli, she lives her childhood dream residents,” Dawn Marcello, director every day. of nursing, said. “She has always “I wanted to be a nurse ever since I was a little girl,” she said. “Some people demonstrated a ‘can do’ attitude when want to be a hundred different things. I never wanted to be anything else.” given new assignments.”

Deb grew up in Warren, Pa., where she lived until her family moved to the “I feel I’ve grown a lot in this job Pittsburgh area while she attended Widener University in Chester. In 2005, she just by being a supervisor,” she said. was working for a home health agency when she came to the Masonic Village at “I’ve grown more responsible, patient Sewickley to visit a resident in her apartment. and understanding since I deal with “I had never heard of Masonic Village before. I remember being so different personalities. I’ve learned impressed with this place,” she said. “I thought this would be a really nice place a lot from Sherry [McLean], care to work, so I applied for a job in the [Valley Care Masonic Center]. I worked as a manager. She is a great person to learn from. The whole job has opened my eyes. staff nurse, then as nurse manager, which I still fill in as sometimes.”

This is a completely new experience.”

By 2010, Deb had more than 30 years’ experience as a nurse, including four In her six years at Masonic Village, Deb has come to understand what its at the Masonic Village at Sewickley. Her son had asked her for years why she Mission of Love means. “It’s allowing residents to maintain dignity and treating didn’t want to work in administration. When Masonic Village announced the start them as individuals,” she said. “Dignity is a big thing. Sometimes I hear people of Home Care Services, the position of home care R.N. coordinator piqued her talk to [seniors] like they’re children. They all had young, busy lives once with interest. hopes and dreams, like we all do. They all deserve to be loved and treated with “I thought I’d never want to be a ‘boss,’” she said. “But this job came along, respect.” and it just kind of fit. It’s been great. I hope to retire here.”

Outside of work, Deb’s two grandchildren keep her busy. Justin, 13, is the She prepared herself for a leadership role by reading several books. “I’ve son of her daughter’s best friend from high school. His mom moved in with had bad managers I didn’t like, so I wanted to do a good job. I want to be Deb’s family when he was four months old. “He became my instant grandson,” approachable; someone staff can talk to.” she said. “He immediately called me ‘grandma.’”

There was some transition from being a nurse in the Valley Care While Justin and his mom don’t live with Deb and her husband, Mike, Masonic Center to coordinating home care appointments and homemakers’ anymore, he is with them four to five days a week and nearly every weekend responsibilities. while his mom works. Deb and Justin recently began volunteering with Animal “[Residents using home care services] are all independent. You have to Friends, an animal shelter and resource center, once or twice a week. Devoted realize you are in their home and respect that,” she said. “People have been very animal lovers, Deb and Mike have three cats and three dogs. accepting. I’m surprised how busy we got and how fast. The homemakers are all Deb’s other grandson lives nearby with her son. Michael is 20 months old, wonderful. It’s been a nice transition.” and in February, he will have a baby sister. Deb’s daughter lives in Ohio. In her Every day is a little different for Deb. She has to juggle nursing, staff and “free” time, Deb is an avid reader, and she and her husband enjoy camping. administrative responsibilities. Her first task of the day is checking her voice “I’ve never had any regrets,” she said of her lifetime career choice. “I’ve mail and email for inquiries from residents. Then she checks the schedule for loved every minute of being a nurse.” residents’ appointments and transportation needs, coordinates drug dispensation and talks with homemakers about any concerns.

“It’s funny because my schedule started out s ...

A Note of Thank four hours a day,” she said. “I couldn’t do it all eciation ess enough appr pr ex ot nn ca in four hours, so I moved to five. Now it’s six to ds “Wor nie [Foy] r employee Jean he d an seven hours.” e bi eb D r fo ey went out are Services. Th C e om H Home Care Services has its own van, but ur yo ical from mom get the med y m lp he to with residents’ various transportation needs, ay w of their she needed e needed, when “I have to be creative sometimes,” Deb said. treatment that sh annie short notice. ... Je on it “Today, a woman wanted a homemaker, who d di d an it, to take in on her day off e m co to d already had two residents to transport, to take her re ee she’d volunt tment, saying that in po ap e th to an appointment. I rearranged the schedule to to my mom my mom. accommodate her. It’s so important for our residents t of their do anything for d Jeannie went ou an e bi eb D to have people they trust. Most residents will h ot when “B care she needed e th om m y m ve accommodate our schedules because they know I’ll way to gi r and we ’t be there for he return the favor.” our family couldn to them.”

Two years into her new position, Deb seems to Deb with two of her favorite people: grandsons are very grateful have found her niche – personally and professionally.

Michael and Justin at a petting zoo held at l ughter of Rache “She displays kindness, compassion and patience Masonic Village.

Becky Lewis, da

We’re Here When You Need a Helping Hand What can home care services do for you?

Our staff are:

• Take care of pets, plants, mail, etc., while you’re away • Provide transportation to/from medical or non-medical appointments • Help you prepare for company/hosting a party • Assist you with shopping/running errands • Clean out closets, basement and/or garage • Do laundry, dishes and other household chores • Provide around-the-clock companionship • Handle meal planning and preparation • Assist with hygiene care

• Friendly, competent and compassionate • Insured, screened, background checked and trained • Professional, dependable and supervised by R.N.s

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The Village Voice • Fall 2012

In Elizabethtown, call 717-367-1121, ext. 33700 or email homecare@masonicvillagespa.org.

In Sewickley, call 412-741-1400, ext. 3096 or email MVShomecare@masonicvillagespa.org.

MasonicVillage

HOME CARE

with Bill Riggle A

s first shared in the “The Village News” (newsletter of Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s Retirement Living Residents Association), after moving to Masonic Village last July, Bill Riggle decided to start working on his bucket list. Near the top of his list was to drive across the country visiting family, friends and interesting attractions.

Knowing his wife, June, was being well cared for in the Masonic Health Care Center, and his dog, Baby, had a trusted sitter, at 5 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 10, Bill hit the road.

His motorcycle, a three-wheel, hand-controlled cycle called a Can-Am, is comfortable and safe, but don’t underestimate its capabilities: it goes from 0 to 60 mph in six seconds. The speedometer reaches 200 mph – not that Bill tested it.

Aside from stops to see family, friends and a few specific sites, the criterion for his destinations was simple: “Whatever I saw and wanted to stop at,” he said. He traversed mostly “blue roads” (as they’re colored on older maps) to keep the drive interesting.

He encountered some unexpected difficulties along his journey. He dropped and broke his camera early in the trip, and his log book was damaged by wind and rain. He forgot the charger to his laptop and, therefore, had no Internet access as he planned. He was more tired than he anticipated, and he chose to stay in motels rather than using a tent as he originally considered.

The biggest inconvenience he experienced was his cycle breaking down in Yellowstone due to a recalled part. There was also a run-in with a herd of buffalo and an unplanned stop in Death Valley, but even that didn’t stop Bill from having the time of his life.

8,200 Miles in 45 Days His first stop was Toledo, Ohio, where he spent four days with his niece.

He then headed to Green Bay, Wis., which is “a beautiful little town,” Bill said. “I visited Lambeau Field and went through the Packers’ museum. What a great experience for a football fan! The practice field is nicer than most regular fields.”

Bill’s next destination was South Dakota. He came across 1880 Town, featuring 30 buildings from the 1880 to 1920 era and props from the movie “Dances with Wolves.” He then traveled through the Black Hills and stopped at a place called Bear Country, a giant park without fences. He wasn’t allowed to drive his bike through, but he was able to borrow a car. “They had hundreds of grizzly bears, timber wolves, elk, moose, fox and badgers,” Bill said. “They all lived together in harmony. Everyone at the park looked out for me and even went and got me a golf cart to ride in through the smaller displays. The people were all very caring.”

His next stop was Mount Rushmore, which “was a unique experience, and I must admit it brought tears to my eyes,” he said.

Bill also saw the Crazy Horse Memorial, built to honor the culture, tradition and living heritage of North American Indians. All that is finished is the head of the Indian, but eventually it will be a gigantic monument. Started in 1948, the memorial is funded entirely by private donors and receives no government funding.

Arriving in Yellowstone, Bill entered the park from the east and circled the entire park for a full day. “What an amazing sight to see!” he said. “God must have been an artist before everything else. Around every bend in the road, I was amazed at the beauty.” His amazement soon turned to fear: “At one point, I came around a bend and there was a herd of buffalo,

about 50. They told me when I entered the park not to agitate the buffalo.

The herd covered the entire roadway and there was absolutely no traffic whatsoever. I stayed behind them for a few minutes until there was a small opening on the left side. I slowly started to pass at about 2 MPH. All at once, the ones in the back decided to pass me, and immediately I was surrounded by buffalo. I couldn’t begin to see over their backs as they are gigantic beasts.

Now I was becoming terrified. After a period of only a few minutes, they started to separate in front of me, but it seemed like hours! I gave my bike the gas and vamoosed out of there as fast as possible.”

A short time later, he encountered an elk eating by the side of the road. He was able to stop and take pictures with his new camera without a reenactment of his buffalo adventure. He passed fields where there were hundreds, if not thousands, of buffalo (at a safe distance). “At first, I thought I had gone back in time to the days of Buffalo Bill Cody,” he said. “Later I stopped at the Buffalo Bill Museum. It would take me days to describe all the items on display.”

He finally reached Old Faithful where, ironically, his bike broke down.

“It was too late to call for road service, so I had to wait until the next day to call my insurance company to get help,” Bill said. “They called a towing service in Jackson Hole, Wyo., but they didn’t get to me until late that afternoon. When I got to the Can-Am dealer, they didn’t have equipment to check it out. I had to rent a U-Haul truck, load the bike and drive to a dealership in Idaho. I spent three days in Idaho, and they did manage to fix my bike. The good news was that it was all covered under warranty, but I had to pay for all my lodging.”

During his detour to Idaho, he passed by Grand Teton National Park and “the most beautiful mountains I’ve ever seen.” Once his bike was repaired, he drove back to Jackson Hole and spent another night there. He would’ve liked to have spent more time in the city, but he was behind schedule.

His next stop was Salt Lake City, Utah, which was beautiful, clean and full of nice people. After one night, he headed to Reno, Nev., and arrived late afternoon, greeted by temperatures “hotter than blazes.” He had been to Reno in 1987 and was surprised to find the once clean city now run down. In the morning, he hit the road for California.

Twenty-one days into the trip, on Aug. 31, Bill arrived at his friends’ house in San Francisco. He enjoyed six days of rest, and after eating out for the last three weeks, found his favorite food on the trip: home cooking.

“I’m having a great time and seeing everything I wanted to see,” Bill told a friend over the phone on Sept. 4.

He said goodbye to his friends and headed to Yosemite. The park offered pretty views and lots of wildlife, although he was disappointed to see Bridalveil Falls had very little falling water due to a drought. Beholding the scenery, Bill noticed several tourists had binoculars pointed toward El Capitan, a 3,000-foot vertical rock formation. Upon a closer look, he saw people climbing the sheer face of the cliff!

Continuing on, despite his fear of heights, Bill decided to drive across the new Hoover Dam Bypass. “It was up there!” he said. He stopped in Las Vegas See On the Road continued on p. 14

R O A D T R IP

MV

Bill’s route, including major stops.

The Village Voice • Fall 2012

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How the Reilly’s Garden Grows A

s a child, Dr. Bill Reilly helped with his family’s garden to ensure there was food on the table each night. Years later, as an adult running a successful ophthalmology practice, Bill continued to grow much of his own food for his family. Today, comfortably into retirement and residing at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown with six restaurants to choose from, Bill remains dedicated to his crops.

Planting the Seed for a Lifelong Love A difficult period in our country’s history, the Great Depression challenged people to do more with less. People of all income brackets had to cut back and buckle down. Bill’s family, residing in the Pittsburgh area, was no exception.

“There were no such things as food banks or government handouts. And my dad wouldn’t have taken them if there was,” he said. “We had three gardens. There were no rototillers then – two gardens were dug by hand and the third by a team of horses and a plow. I had to help.”

After high school, Bill attended medical school. Upon graduating, he served in the U.S. Army as a medical officer aboard the Francis Y. Slanger Hospital Ship. When he returned from the service, he bought his first home in McMurray, Pa., where he started his first garden.

He and his wife, Fae, an R.N. from Uniontown, eventually bought a house with two acres in Washington, Pa., where they lived until 1997. Bill planted a large garden protected from raccoon, deer and other intruders with a six-foot wire fence. After working with patients in dark rooms during the day, he looked forward to coming home and working outside.

Even with two growing boys to feed, the Reillys had leftover produce which they gave to the Presbyterian Home down the road.

Sowing the Way for Future Gardeners The Reillys moved to Masonic Village in 1997. Their two-acre property was becoming difficult to manage, and Bill’s former patients were so fond of him, they kept calling him even after his retirement. While they miss Pittsburgh, Bill and Fae enjoy the climate in Elizabethtown and being closer to their two sons.

At the time of the Reilly’s arrival, Masonic Village residents managed garden plots where the Ford, McKinley and Monroe Drive and Taft Court cottages now stand. From 1912 until about 1990, this site was home to a 65-acre vegetable garden which provided 85 percent of the produce needed to feed residents of what was then called the Masonic Homes.

In 2004, the garden plots were moved to Commandery Road (called Cow Barn Hill by locals), where more residents could nurture their hobby.

Bill was one of the first two residents to select a plot. Currently, there are a total of 35 plots. (For information about available garden plots, residents may contact Jennifer Stuckey, activities supervisor, at ext. 33903.)

Bill spends about 15 hours a week tending his garden. His crops include peas, beans, tomatoes, lettuce, onions, gladioli, sweet potatoes, carrots, peppers, okra, rhubarb, butternut squash, zucchini and “almost anything that’s edible,” Fae Bill’s Secret said. The couple makes tomato and Gardening Tips vegetable soup, and cans and freezes the remaining produce. e ry of 1. Apply cover crop e.

Bill starts planting in April, and grain to hold in moistur

by September, he’s down to just 2. Pray for rain! potatoes and spends most of his time

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The Village Voice • Fall 2012

cleaning up for the next season. “In April and May, you meet a lot of enthusiastic gardeners,” he said.

“By August and September, they’re not so excited.”

Bill has always had a lot of success with gardening, aside from uncontrollable factors like the weather. One of the best tips he learned is to apply a cover crop of rye grain. It helps keep moisture and nitrogen in the ground. His favorite aspect of his garden plot at Masonic Village is having access to water without having to carry it a long distance.

Blossoming Friendships Fae was never as active in the garden as Bill, but she often joins him to help manage all the crops.

“She’s learning,” Bill said with a smile.

“You meet such nice people,” Fae said. “We’ll sit at ‘our’ bench and it’s so beautiful and peaceful.

It’s very relaxing.”

“They give me advice,” Bill said of his fellow gardeners. “Everyone is very helpful to each other – no matter what you ask. If you’re away for a week, they’ll look after your garden. When one gentleman was in the hospital, a group of us all went in and tried to help. We wouldn’t have known some of our neighbors otherwise. There are lots of enjoyable conversations.”

Bill shares his passion for planting with the Greenhouse Department by volunteering to “do whatever they want,” he said. For the last 15 years, he has helped with leaf cleanup on the property, transplanting seedlings and watering. Staff don’t transplant many seedlings anymore, but Bill still eagerly awaits the delivery of Easter lily bulbs in December when he assists with planting them.

“He helps us every week with watering and other greenhouse tasks while discussing our gardens, family and life,” Tracy Funk, greenhouse supervisor, said. “He is like a grandfather and friend to me and the other staff. We have a special cookout celebration for him every year in honor of his birthday. He is truly part of the family.”

A love of gardening has been passed down to one of the Reilly’s sons and one of their granddaughters, Erin. Bill recalls taking Erin down to this garden for the first time at age 2. “I’ll never forget, she said, ‘it’s dirty!’

She enjoyed it.” Bill said. Now 33 years old and working on her Ph.D. at Ohio State University, Erin still finds time to “play” in the dirt. The Reillys have three additional grandchildren.

Besides having a green thumb, Bill is a club champion golfer and a member of Avalon Lodge No. 657, Bellevue.

Next April, Bill and Fae, with their dirt-caked shoes and tools in hand, will return to their garden to prepare for another growing season. With more than 80 years’ experience, an unwavering devotion and Fae by his side, Bill’s sure to produce another bountiful harvest.

Serving Up New Dining Options and Fresh Living Spaces Masonic Health Care Center Beginning in 2011, renovations to the Masonic Health Care Center at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown have been transforming residents’ neighborhoods from institutional models into household designs.

The Ben Franklin neighborhoods were completed in October. All suites were enhanced with fresh paint and décor, and some expanded suites are no longer separated by a large curtain, but by a windowed partition with drapery for privacy.

Bathrooms feature new fixtures, walker-accessible showers and granite tiles.

Common spaces have been refurbished with new furniture and décor. Larger living rooms offer more room for residents to gather.

“It is a beautiful new environment and a pleasant place to be,” Jo Hart, nurse manager, Ben Franklin 2, said. “I’ve heard nothing but positives from residents and their families. They love the fireplace and the knickknacks. The decorative touches make it so much more home-like. The suites are nicer, too. Residents like the divider in the expanded suites. It gives them their own private area.”

Nurses’ stations were previously located in the center of each neighborhood. Now referred to as care bases, they have been reconfigured, leaving fewer walls and more open living space.

“The care base allows our CNAs to be closer to our residents while giving them a quiet place to do paperwork,” Jo said. “Staff need a pleasant work environment.”

A new call bell system links to cell phones rather than pagers and allows entire departments to communicate, not just staff. All renovated suites are equipped with the new system.

“Staff are better able to communicate because of the new pager phones,” Jo said. “We can get in touch quickly without having to go out of our way to find someone.”

The Masonic Health Care Center cafeteria is expected to be finished in November. Work on the Washington neighborhoods will continue through 2014. Future renovations will include the Roosevelt neighborhoods, followed by work on the Freemasons Building personal care residence.

“For as big of a project as it is, it has gone smoothly,” Jo said. “The construction crew was courteous to staff and residents, and they cleaned up every bit of mess each day. Staff were well prepared

for any workflow disruptions.”

Changing more than just the look of the neighborhoods, the new country kitchens are renewing residents’ dining experiences. Meal times, once task-oriented, are now a time for staff to socialize with residents, and for residents to enjoy more variety in what they’re eating.

Previously, predetermined meals were delivered to each neighborhood and had to be unloaded and set up at Marilyn Henderson, L.P.N., with Al Robb in his renovated suite. scheduled times. It took a great deal of time for staff, and residents were On Oct. 1, 106 residents moved into the Sturgeon Health Care left waiting.

Center at the Masonic Village at Sewickley. Look for photos of Now, residents come into the their new home in the next issue of the Village Voice! dining room anytime during an hour-and-a-half window for each and dislikes and dietary requirements. meal. A host or hostess, typically a “Because dementia often hinders a person’s staff volunteer from another department, seats them ability to process information, we were unsure how and serves them a drink or they can grab their own.

They are able to select from two entrées, and dining the process of making choices off a menu would work,” Rick said. “We have found the residents attendants prepare their meal upon ordering. to be open and receptive to the process, and it has “The food is more delicious and readily worked rather well. Because the residents are eating available,” Jo said. “Residents are eating well and so well, the need for supplements has decreased enjoying the experience.”

“We have a lot of choices now,” Gerald Erb said significantly.”

The country kitchens provide a new opportunity while sitting with his wife of 65 years, Sara. “I’ve for staff from other departments, residents and the only gained 10 pounds!” local community to become involved. They can “Now it’s more about what the residents want. volunteer as hosts, serve drinks, set up utensils, It offers them a choice, and the aroma from the clean tables and socialize with residents. Volunteers fresh meals enhances the experience,” Rick Schies, who are interested in helping during evening nurse manager in the Lafayette memory support meals and weekends can call Cynthia Hollinger, neighborhoods, said. “We are observing more staff volunteers director, at 717-367-1121, ext. 33175. to resident interaction.”

“The volunteers really enjoy spending that time “The residents instantly loved it. It’s more assisting in the dining experience,” Rick said. “We relaxed and they seem much happier,” Dorothy provide the training they require, and this helps to Becker Drumheller, nursing assistant, said. “It’s alleviate some of the fear they may have. It has been more home-like and family-oriented. You can start a positive experience.” a conversation by asking them what they liked to cook. When you put the plate down, they smile. I Grand Lodge Hall Dining Room always joke that I was up all night cooking it!”

Beginning in early September, residents walked In the Lafayette East neighborhood, which into the Grand Lodge Hall Dining Room to find a provides care for residents in early stages of new layout featuring buffet stations with a variety of dementia, the country kitchen has been open choices. since January. Residents are able to choose the “We wanted to increase residents’ dining menu items they prefer. In the Lafayette West experience with the right presentation which neighborhood, which provides care for residents in matched the ambience of this beautiful dining room late stages of dementia, the country kitchen opened built 102 years ago,” Daphne Gulick, senior director in August. Staff ask residents what they’d like to eat of food services, said. “We eat with our eyes. It’s or choose items for them based on their known likes See Renovations on p. 16

Left, Sara and Gerald Erb enjoy lunch in one of the new country kitchens. Center, resident Susan Bossert talks with Dottie Becker Drumheller, nursing assistant, while waiting for lunch. Right, the country kitchen in Ben Franklin 2 during lunch.

The Village Voice • Fall 2012

7

Empowering Lives Through Technology

T

Becky Kandrac, recreation therapist, uses It’s Never 2 Late with echnology has the power to bring us closer to loved ones, capture residents in the Lafayette East neighborhood. moments forever, enlighten and engage our senses, bring comfort and improve lives. At Masonic Villages, staff constantly look for new ways to use technology to enhance the care they provide.

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown It’s Never 2 Late Throughout the Masonic Health Care Center, residents are watching commercials from the 1950s, singing and dancing to show tunes, laughing alongside YouTube videos of cats and babies, and recalling the price of milk in 1957. Three computer systems, It’s Never 2 Late (iN2L), are entertaining, amusing, challenging and educating users. iN2L’s picture-based interface with touch screens is designed to be user friendly. It is more than just an activity tool – it includes a therapy-based approach, so while residents play games, listen to music or learn to email, they experience therapeutic benefits like hand-eye coordination.

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown had iN2L on its wish list through the Office of Gift Planning for four years. Last year, Bro. Donald Wood purchased three of the portable computers. Each came with a portable cities, and topics such as Today in History, and Health and Wellness stand, computer/touch screen monitor with camera and speakers built in, featuring physical and brain fitness exercises. Games range from “Family keyboard with large font, mouse, wireless keyboard and mouse, mouse Feud” to “The Price is Right” to state trivia. iN2L also has a link to tray and cords to attach to a big screen TV and/or projector. Attachments Google Earth, which can take users anywhere on Earth to view satellite include a joystick, phone, flip camera and bicycle so residents can ride imagery, maps, terrain and 3-D buildings. Becky uses it to search for along with exercise programs. people’s former homes or tour cities around the world. Residents can watch The computers all hook up to the iN2L network and are updated YouTube videos, such as laughing babies or cute kittens. Inspirational and regularly with new programs and current events. Staff from therapeutic spiritual programs enlighten them while relaxing photos and sounds allow recreation, music therapy, volunteer services and the Masonic Life Center them to unwind. received training so they could incorporate the systems into their daily “I find out what they like and what their leisure interests are,” Becky activities. said. “It’s great for focusing on memory, short-term and long-term.”

Benefits of iN2L: “It keeps your mind busy,” resident Ginny Wright said.

1. Good for one-on-one activities such as puzzles and games or group One-on-one Activities activities like karaoke.

Stacy Cathrall, recreation therapist, uses iN2L in groups and one-on2. Increases resident participation by appealing to a resident’s one with residents. The system’s mobility enables her to move it from suite personal interests (music, agriculture, history, geography, to suite for those who may not be able to meet in the common area. spirituality, etc.).

Helen Brookhart turned 98 years old on Oct. 13, and while she jokes 3. Increases staff satisfaction by providing new ideas, opportunities about not being as sharp as she once was, when she plays trivia games on and support services. iN2L, she feels like a genius.

4. Increases family satisfaction with easy communication through “The answers just pop out,” she said. “You don’t know where they email and Skype (which allows users to make free telephone calls come from.” Helen, who was educated in a one-room country school, anywhere in the world and use web cams to communicate “face also finds when challenged, she can recite all the presidents, add numbers to face”). Each resident can have his or her own file, and family instantly in her head and recall where she was the exact moment President members can email photos or videos which staff can upload into John F. Kennedy was shot. residents’ files.

Stacy has noticed verbal and cognitive improvements in residents after Group Activities using iN2L. “They surprise themselves,” she said. “They’re surprised they “I’ve worked in therapeutic recreation with the dementia population know the answers, and it energizes them.” for close to 20 years,” Becky Kandrac, recreation therapist in the Lafayette One resident, who worked as a geography teacher, becomes very East memory support neighborhood, said. “I didn’t know if my residents responsive when she uses a program to identify states. She also uses would understand [iN2L], but I left the training eager to give it a try.

Google Earth and acts as a tour guide of certain places she has visited for Within a week, I began using the system in my neighborhood. I started off other residents. For another resident who liked to attend church and sing slowly – a sing-a-long with karaoke. This was a huge hit! My residents hymns but is now unable to go to services, Stacy pulls up Our Daily Bread were all singing and dancing in their seats. I then started using the different Devotions and hymns for her. types of memory games and exercise programs.

“I don’t play the piano and the resident enjoys singing with others, so “I love the variety and can keep my residents’ attention for hours. It’s a this way we have background music and an entire chorus to sing with us,” great addition to the programming on our neighborhood!”

Stacy said. “It is when she is most alert and happy. She smiles and hums Becky uses iN2L twice a week. On a recent day, she gathered for the rest of the day. It brings so much joy to about five residents in a common area. More her day.” individuals, including visiting family members, The system even fills in gaps where Stacy trickled in as they heard the music and laughter. doesn’t have experience. “I don’t play chess, but The computer was hooked up to a big screen there is one gentleman who loves it. He is able to TV, enabling everyone to see it. From about a play against the computer now,” she said. dozen categories, Becky selected the jukebox Stacy uses the Staff Tools section to help option and asked which song everyone would plan other activities such as crafts or poems to like to hear out of the hundreds available. Some display in the neighborhood, and to easily look people sang along to “God Bless the U.S.A.,” up information to enhance her programs or skills. while others closed their eyes and relaxed. When “It allows me to spend more time with the Becky put on a Plymouth car commercial from residents and less time working in my office,” 1956, many of them recalled the car, leading to Stacy said. conversations about what they were doing that Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill year – working, raising a family, etc. iN2L is on Masonic Village at Lafayette Other activities include web cams which Stacy Cathrall, recreation therapist, and Helen show what’s happening live in zoos and major See Empowering Lives on next page Brookhart watch a humorous video on It’s Never 2 Late.

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The Village Voice • Fall 2012

TechTips

by David Koppel, web programmer

Digital Video Sharing Made Simple I

t used to be that home movies were an expensive, complicated task that involved special equipment, planning and patience. Viewing the final movies required everyone gathering in the same room to watch.

All of that has changed, and for the most part, this is a good thing. Even the cheapest smartphones put video recording literally at your fingertips, and it is getting hard, if not impossible, to find a new digital camera that doesn’t also allow you to record video.

Video has become so easy and commonplace that the only real downside (aside from possibly having to sit through endless footage of your neighbor’s trip to the World’s Largest Ball of String) is sharing it with other people.

Yes, sharing videos suffers from all the same problems as sharing photographs, and more.

Digital video files tend to be much larger than digital photo files, which means that email is almost completely impractical. Fortunately, the Internet provides us with some excellent alternative options.

The ever-present Facebook.com is a free, easy and convenient way to share videos. You can add a video the same way you add a status update or photo. Even better, if you took the video with your smartphone, chances are you can share it on your Facebook account with just a touch or two.

Most smartphones come with an integrated Facebook application or have one available which you can download and install.

These applications make uploading videos from your phone very easy.

Just be aware of what your provider’s rules are for bandwidth (most have a limit on how much you can upload each month). Some larger video files may be too big to upload using your phone service. For larger videos, you’ll need to connect your phone directly to the Internet, either through wireless networking or by plugging it into a computer connected to the Internet.

YouTube.com is another very popular video sharing service. To share videos, you will need to sign up for a free account. Videos posted on YouTube.com are normally visible to everyone, but you have the option of setting individual videos you share as “private,” in which case you can create a list of up to 50 individuals who can see the video. Anyone who is not on the list will not be able to see it. Every person you wish to share with will need to have an account with YouTube.com, and you will need to know what their YouTube.com usernames are in order to add them to your private list.

Initially, YouTube.com will only let you share videos which are 15 minutes or less. However, if you’ve had your account for a while and have a history of sharing videos without breaking any of their rules, they may remove the limit for your account if you request it, allowing you to share videos of just about any length.

Another popular option is Vimeo.com. Vimeo.com is a free videosharing service, although they have an upgraded service available to those willing to pay a monthly fee. The upgraded service gives you a lot more storage and some additional features, but the free version gives you 500 MB/week of storage. It also enables you to share your videos only with selected Vimeo.com users or to protect your videos so only people you send a password to will be able to see them. You are restricted to sharing only one high definition (HD) quality video per week with the free service, so if you have a lot of HD videos, you’ll either want to look for a different service, or pay for the premium package which gives you the ability to share unlimited HD videos.

I covered Google Drive (drive.google.com) and Dropbox.com in last issue’s article on photo sharing, but they will work just as well for video sharing. Both of these services will give you several gigabytes of free storage (5 GB for Google Drive and between 2 and 18 GB with Dropbox.com, depending on whether you refer other people who sign up), which you can use to share any type of file with friends or family who have accounts with that service, too. In both cases, you also can increase the amount of space at your disposal by agreeing to pay a monthly fee.

There are plenty more options out there. If you find you have a lot of videos to share and the options listed here are just too restrictive or inflexible, you may want to consider starting your own website or blog to share them. It really isn’t as hard as you might think (see the next issue’s article for tips)!

This article is intended to inform readers of different options for video sharing tools available, along with the advantages and disadvantages. You assume personal responsibility when using any of these websites or services. Masonic Villages does not partner or have any paid affiliation with the websites listed.

Empowering Lives continued from p. 8 Hill’s wish list as well. In the meantime, residents use a computer lab and can attend computer classes. A Nintendo Wii video game system encourages bowling, cognitive games and exercise. Angela Hurst, director of recreation, also is looking to incorporate Xbox 360 Kinect, which is similar to the Wii but does not require hand controls. The game responds to players’ body movements.

Masonic Village at Sewickley In the Sturgeon Health Care Center, staff use technology in a variety of ways. There is a computer for residents to access as they desire. Lynette Gerstel, activities coordinator, uses the Internet and YouTube for special activities such as the Olympics or to share interesting videos which may appeal to residents.

“We use the Internet for everything: contacting families about upcoming events, looking up craft ideas, trivia, music for residents, emails for family and research for projects,” Lynette said. “There are websites specifically for therapeutic recreation that give us ideas. We also show pictures for residents.”

She recently used Skype to enable some residents to watch a wedding they were unable to attend. An iPod provides music during events and activities such as a morning stretch group and a music and movement class with Megan Zulauf, music therapist. Staff are looking into an iPod program specifically for those who are memory-impaired. Residents also enjoy using the Nintendo Wii, and it is a great intergenerational tool.

“Honestly, we could not do our job as well without the Internet,” Lynette said. “The resources on the web are unlimited. At this time, some residents have iPads and Kindles. If we, the staff, had them to do one-on-one activities, they would be unbelievable tools. Questions come up in conversations or groups that could be looked up and talked about further.”

The Village Voice • Fall 2012

9

Village

Residents from Elizabethtown took a summer field trip to Ashcombe Farm and Greenhouses and stopped at Ashcombe Mansion for a quick photo.

Shown in left photo (l-r): Nancy Heffley, recreation coordinator; Elaine Lukens; Joy Moore; Jolene Schweers, therapeutic recreation coordinator; and Aaron Jaffe. On the right, Ed and Betty Stepp sample picnic staples including corn on the cob and hot dogs at an event held indoors due to hot temperatures.

Sewickley residents and staff gathered for a summer festival in August. The day included a 9-hole golf outing, an outdoor cocktail hour and Wallyball (water balloon volleyball), which turned into a round of balloon toss (shown in bottom photo).

The event concluded with a delicious pig roast dinner. Top photo, Austin McGrath and Don Eckert with their cocktails.

To celebrate the 43rd anniversary of our first walk on the moon, residents in Warminster gathered for an Outer Space happy hour. They enjoyed intergalactic refreshments, played Pin the Nose on the Alien and even had some close encounters of the furry kind. Shown below are (left) Jane Harner and Kaye Benson and (right) Jane Hornberger and Jane Radcliff with Roscoe.

Participants at the Adult Daily Living Center, including Ruth Halderman, celebrated the Hawaiian culture with a hula dance contest, a Hawaiian vacation photo album and “beach” volleyball.

Having a bowling alley in-house is convenient for residents in Lafayette Hill to enhance their skills and have a little fun.

As part of the annual bowling party, staff also joined the action.

Shown in top photo are Irene Moyer and Jane Strock. In bottom photo are John Satterthwaite and John Barkley.

Dallas residents enjoyed food, the company of neighbors and yard games at the annual picnic at Frances Slocum State Park earlier this summer. Top photo, Norton Eberts and Jean Carson help cook lunch. Linda Foster and Edna Bozette play lawn darts.

Congratulations to Lafayette Hill’s Senior Olympic champions! Overall, the team placed second, with many individuals receiving medals. Events included a wheelchair race, bean bag toss, hat/scarf relay, kickball and ball toss. Above, right, Barbara Whittaker participates in the bean bag toss.

To help residents of the Elizabethtown area who need assistance obtaining food on an emergency basis, residents and staff in the Masonic Health Care Center and Freemasons Building personal care residence, held a food drive in September. Residents, including Lois McCulley, Ginny Andrews and June Wolbach (shown above), sorted 430 items into 18 boxes (in under 10 minutes!) for delivery to the Elizabethtown Food Bank.

One resident neighborhood, Roosevelt 4, chose to donate their profits from a recent yard sale to the food bank. Thanks to all who contributed to this worthy cause!

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The Village Voice • Fall 2012

In Warminster, the PA Department of Health’s annual unannounced survey in July resulted in a deficiency-free survey for the second year in a row! The results are a testament to the dedication of our outstanding staff, including Bernite Cadet and Natascha Bastien, nursing assistants (shown above).

Above, Marge Grady and Bruce Myers, along with other residents in Sewickley, spent a beautiful summer evening sipping martinis on the patio.

Thanks to the Swingtet 8, a local swing band, for providing some tunes.

Happenings Alexis Henry has been writing poetry since she was 9 years old. After moving to the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, she began working with music therapy supervisor Ann Dinsmore to put her words to music. In early August, Alexis and Ann put on a concert for residents, staff and friends with the help of recreation therapist Nessie Saint Cyr, who recited some of Alexis’ poetry.

Dallas residents sure know how to enjoy the outdoors during the summer! At a barbecue in the villas in August, (left) Mark and Mary Walter relax on a porch while Bob Foster (right) helps cook up some burgers. Thanks to resident Al Exter for sharing his photos.

Residents from Sewickley spent Autumn Day weekend in the eastern half of the state. In addition to Masonic Village, they visited Gettysburg, the Sight & Sound Theatre in Lancaster and the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia.

As part of Fred’s Mystery Tour, Sewickley resident Bob Lenhardt showed off his license plate collection which includes antiques plates, Masonic plates and several from out of state. The tour also took residents around to learn about the campus’ horticulture.

About 120 residents, staff and family members (and a goat), ages 9 months to 98 years, joined in some fun during the Washington 2 neighborhood’s fair in Elizabethtown.

Carnival games included a bean bag toss, dunk tank, soda ring toss, pluck a duck and candy roulette wheel. Resident Jay Neiffer and staff grilled up sausages and burgers with chocolate and vanilla milkshakes and snow cones to help beat the 90-degree heat. Shown above are Beverly Shaffner and her daughter, Beverly, and Betty and Ray Goepfert.

Residents in Warminster said goodbye to summer with a boardwalk-themed party. To the sounds of “Under the Boardwalk” and other tunes, they sampled pizza, funnel cake and salt water taffy. Competing for stuffed animals, they played boardwalk classics such as the ring toss, fish pond and basketball hoop shots. Shown in top photo are (l-r), Marie Price and Mary Ellen Burkhart and bottom photo, Jackie Deeken, administrative assistant, and Cathy Welsh, executive assistant.

A Health Fair open to the Lafayette Hill community in September featured valuable wellness information, screenings, door prizes, healthy snack sale, chair massages, tours, and an exercise and healthy cooking demonstration. Approximately 150 people attended, making it the most successful Health Fair to date.

At a three-day County Fair held in the Masonic Health Care Center in Elizabethtown leading up to Autumn Day, residents got up close and personal with alpacas, bunnies, chickens, goats and a pony. They also submitted hand-made items for judging and exhibition, played games and munched on fair food. One of the highlights was a dunk tank with the chance to soak staff members! Shown at top, Gloria Althouse and Marjorie Learn greet an alpaca. In the bottom photo, Betty Stepp tries out the ring toss as Rosene Dunkle, organization development and training instructor, watches.

Residents who were recognized at the Elizabethtown Fair for their art, wood working and other crafts include (back row, l-r): John Shreffler, Ron Snyder and Sylvia Goodling and (front row, l-r): Lillian Campbell, Joan Dellinger (also holding a winning painting by Marjorie Kolmus) and Twila Shreffler. Additional winners include: Elsie Stackhouse recognized for her hand-knitted baby booties and other items; Ron Deuel, who made a table for his granddaughter; and Mae Simmons honored for her needlework.

The Village Voice • Fall 2012

11

by J. Kenneth Brubaker, M.D., C.M.D., medical director, Masonic Village at Elizabethtown

Preventing Shingles S

hingles, or herpes zoster, is a common illness among older adults. For many years, researchers have been raising questions as to why this is the case. The most common understanding among geriatricians is we are dealing with a suppressed or less reactive immune system which tends to decline with aging. Particularly vulnerable are persons with immune suppression such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and Crohn’s disease.

What Causes Shingles?

Shingles is caused by the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox among children. For those who have been exposed to the chickenpox virus at a young age, the virus continues to remain at the base of their dorsal root ganglia (located near spinal nerves) for many years.

Previously infected persons can develop shingles much later in life. The circumstances which stimulate the re-activation of the chickenpox virus is still not understood by researchers.

Shingles is frequently associated with a very painful rash which occurs on one side of the face or body and typically lasts from two to four weeks. One in five persons will experience post-herpetic neuralgia (nerve pain) after the rash clears. This neuropathic pain can last months, and in some cases, years.

How Can Shingles be Prevented?

Experiencing pain is the major reason why there has been a lot of interest in developing an effective vaccine that can reduce the development of shingles, especially among the older adult population.

A vaccine has been given to children to prevent chickenpox for many years, and the virus is no longer seen often among small children. One in three persons who have not been immunized for chickenpox as a child will develop shingles during their lifetime. This equates to one million cases of shingles in the United States annually.

In 2006, a vaccine for shingles, known as Zostavax, was licensed in the United States for adults 60 years and older. Clinical trials have consistently demonstrated a 50 percent reduction in shingles among immunized older

adults. More importantly, among those who were immunized against shingles but still experienced the disease, there was a significant reduction of post-herpetic neuralgia.

The Zostavax vaccine is a live virus which is attenuated. Attenuation of a virus means the virus was altered so the vaccine will not cause active chickenpox, but will rather stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies against the chickenpox virus. Thus, if one is exposed to the wild chickenpox virus in the community, these antibodies will be activated.

With successful activation of the antibodies against the chickenpox virus, the Zostavax vaccine prevents the development of shingles.

Ask Your Doctor ...

The Zostavax vaccine should not be given to individuals who are allergic to gelatin and the antibiotic neomycin, since both are in the shingles vaccine, or individuals with weak immune systems. Examples of weak immune systems includes persons with HIV/AIDS, those who are receiving steroids, chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy, and those who have a history of leukemia or lymphoma. Individuals should address concerns about the safety of the Zostavax vaccine with their primary care physician or pharmacist.

Since there is evidence demonstrating the decline in our immune system as we age, I would encourage those who are 60 years of age and older to consider receiving the Zostavax immunization. The medical research literature indicates the shingles immunization is most effective among those receiving the vaccine in their 60s, while those in their 80s and older will experience less benefit from Zostavax.

Exploring Fit Possibilities R

esidents of the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill have discovered the secret to better health. One woman who was involved in a serious car accident talks about how she has defied the expectations of her surgeon and rehabilitation therapist, some of whom said she’d never be able to move again. Others comment on their ability to catch themselves before tripping or getting up if they’ve fallen.

Some glow with pride as they mention the praises from their doctors after their annual check-ups. Their blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, body fat and all other important numbers are right where they should be or better.

Their magic pill? Fit Possibilities, a wellness program offered twice a week.

“Everyone needs exercise to improve their mental and physical well-being, instructor Yvonne Ferguson-Hardin said. “A stronger body on the move is able to Yvonne Ferguson-Hardin (kneeling) with participants of an exercise demonstration cope better with inevitable illnesses. Memory and cognitive awareness that may decline with age benefit from the increased blood flow to the brain, which in turn, improves the oxygen flow to the brain.”

Yvonne teaches exercises such as aerobics, Zumba or squats in front of a chair; strength training; yoga and stretching; balance; coordination; and cognitive exercises, all designed to help residents live a fuller life by enabling them to do more. She also shares information about good food choices and exercises to do anywhere.

“I have designed the exercises so they can be modified to meet the needs of those with mobility issues; uni/bilateral inequalities; stroke, cancer, diabetes or Alzheimer’s issues; and for the inexperienced,” Yvonne said. “Anyone can do the exercises. There is a style for everyone.”

About 17 residents participate in each class, but anyone is welcome at any time. “The social aspect is a very large part of the program,” Yvonne said. “Many of the participants look forward to the group because it may be the only group activity they enjoy. During class they talk, laugh and have a good time. Once a person begins to exercise, they’ll enjoy life more and wonder why they didn’t do it before.”

Yvonne has been working as a specialist in the health and fitness field since 1989. She is a certified Aerobic Instructor and has conducted fitness classes ranging from boxing to body sculpting. She specializes in older adults and worked with the University of Pennsylvania on a special falls prevention project to create exercises which improve balance and gait. She earned a degree from Temple University and later worked in recreation. She has served as recreation director for long-term care communities, including Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill.

In 2008, after the birth of her third and last child, she decided to start her own business, something she’d been thinking of doing for years. Through Fergie’s Instruction Training, or FIT, she teaches basic/advanced classes to various audiences and conducts personal training and nutritional consulting, among other services.

“I wanted to provide a service I love and focus on a population who really needs what I have to offer,” she said. “I really enjoy the interaction with seniors and sharing my passion of leisure and fitness.”

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The Village Voice • Fall 2012

Active Aging Includes Many Journeys, Many Destinations

A

ctive Aging Week is a national program which promotes the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, in multiple aspects of wellness, by giving older adults the opportunity to experience activities and exercise in a safe, friendly and fun atmosphere. Developed by the International Council on Active Aging, this year’s program was held Sept. 23 - 29.

The path toward wellness is an individual one which leads to intellectual, emotional, physical, environmental, spiritual and social growth. In Elizabethtown, residents spent the week learning about healthy choices and engaging in purposeful activities based on the theme “Many Journeys, Many Destinations.”

Each day featured a program focused on a different dimension of wellness.

The kick-off celebration on Monday included a mini–exercise class with Jennifer Berlet, fitness instructor II, and a healthy cooking demonstration with Diane Waple, chief dietitian. On Tuesday, chiropractor Dr. Mark Doody discussed back health. Wednesday’s program appealed to the emotional dimension of wellness with a Laughing Yoga class/lecture. Rev. A. Preston Van Deursen, director of pastoral care, lifted everyone’s spirits on Thursday with a happiness workshop, and on Friday, residents celebrated their journey to Healthier Selves in 2012 with wine and cheese, music and prizes.

Encouraging healthy lifestyles is a constant goal at all Masonic Villages’ locations, whether it’s through fitness classes, intergenerational groups, worship services or lifelong learning programs.

In Lafayette Hill, residents can participate in weekly fitness classes (see article on p. 12), the annual senior games and health fair, worship services, trips and many other wellness opportunities. The Wellness Center is conveniently located on the ground floor. “It gives our residents a wonderful chance to improve their physical, mental and social well-being,” Kara LaFreeda, wellness manager, said. “Aside from a place to exercise, I strive to make it a happy environment where residents enjoy coming a few times a week. If they can have a good workout and leave with a smile on their faces, my work is done.”

In Warminster, Indeera Ennis, housekeeping supervisor, recently started a stretch class which uses rubber resistance bands to help residents strengthen muscles and improve flexibility. Residents also can take part in a daily exercise class at 9:30 a.m., and a wellness group at 11 a.m. in the personal care area. A tai chi DVD is available for residents to practice on their own.

“I believe the goals are both physical and social: to increase movement and stamina, and to bring residents together who may not socialize otherwise,” Trisha Lamb, activities director, said. “We have a lot of fun listening to funky music and sharing a lot of laughter. We never miss an opportunity here to ‘shake our bon-bons!’”

“I would like every week here at Masonic Village at Sewickley to be Active Aging Week,” Mark Cerneskie, wellness program manager at the Barley Wellness Center, said. “That sounds like the perfect excuse to consider joining the wellness center or trying Sit N Be Fit, stretching or water exercise classes.”

Residents also can attend monthly programs on campus with Allegheny General Health’s Healthy Living Series and a Genesis Rehab Program which both cover a range of topics from memory fitness to lower back pain prevention.

Religious discussions and lifelong learning videos and speakers encourage debate and enlightenment.

In addition to an on-site wellness center, residents of the Masonic Village at Dallas benefit from a close relationship with neighboring Misericordia University. They can attend healthy aging series hosted by professors covering subjects such as maintaining balance and memory loss, use the university’s swimming pool and fitness center, take part in fitness classes and participate in continuing education and lifelong learning classes. A certified instructor leads tai chi classes throughout the year in the Irem Clubhouse.

How a person defines “active aging” depends upon his or her interests, capabilities, likes and dislikes. Masonic Villages strives to provide options to encourage residents to explore new journeys or revisit former ones all year long.

Left to right: Residents share smiles during a Laughing Yoga class in Elizabethtown; Jane Radcliff and Patty Kostas participate in a stretching class in Warminster; Marlene Moisey, Eleanor Robson and Chuck Garney swim at the Barley Wellness Center in Sewickley; and Mark R. Reinhart, NMT, MMQ, leads a tai chi class in Dallas.

Marking 80 Years with 100 Miles S

ome people celebrate birthdays with cake and a party. Don March, a resident of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, marked his 80th birthday on Sept. 16 by bicycling 100 miles!

He participated in the Harrisburg Bike Club’s annual Three Creek Century ride, which includes routes between 25 and 100 miles in length.

Don was the oldest participant in the 100-mile ride, although one of his partners, Mike McMullen, also happened to be celebrating his 65th birthday that same day. They were surrounded by bikers mostly ages 25 to 45.

“I enjoy it. I feel good doing it,” he said, “and I feel good after.”

Don rides between 4,000 and 5,000 miles each year on his bicycle, so 100 miles was no sweat. A “quick” ride for him is 53 miles. He avoids major roads, traversing between Dauphin, Lancaster and Berks Counties.

He credits luck (with good health), perseverance and desire with motivating him to keep pedaling. When he sees his doctor, who also enjoys bicycling, he tells Don to keep it up and, “I’ll see you in a year.”

“You have to keep at it,” Don said. “It’s a mental thing. Anyone can do it if you open your mind.”

Don, and his friend, Mike, at the Three Creek Century ride.

Don bikes on Masonic Village’s campus.

The Village Voice • Fall 2012

13

A Renewed Focus on Hope, Joy, Growth, Life & Energy

T

he curtain has come down at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s Sell Chapel, making room for new woodwork, lights and Paraments.

Rev. A. Preston Van Deursen, director of pastoral care, has worked at Masonic Village since 1995. As long as he has been preaching from the pulpit (and likely many years before), a dark red velvet curtain hung on the altar. One day, he decided it was time for a change, and he knew just the person who could help.

Resident Sylvia Goodling has been sewing since she was 15 and worked as a professional seamstress. Her oil paintings of campus scenes are popular among staff and residents. When Pastor Van Deursen asked her to help design and make new Paraments and banners to adorn the altar, she was happy to oblige.

After ordering the fabric through a choral and clergy attire supplier in New England, she carefully cut, sewed and embellished five banners, one for each church season, to hang behind the pulpit. She also helped re-design the altar cloths and wall hangings which had faded over time.

With the curtain removed, Pastor Van Deursen thought the wood paneling and lights behind the altar also could be updated. Employees Bill Pierce, carpenter, and Mike Hamilton, maintenance mechanic/ electrician, offered their services toward the upgrade.

“It was a true labor of love,” Pastor Van Deursen said.

The project is dedicated to the memory of two Sell Chapel congregation members, Arthur Brittingham, Jr. and Janet Barry.

As she sits in church on Sunday morning, Sylvia can take pride in her contribution which has brightened Sell Chapel for all who attend.

“It’s nice,” she said, knowing others will enjoy her work for years to come. “I liked doing it.”

“They’re beautiful. They enhance the altar and the cross,” Pastor Van Deursen said. “They return the focus where it ought to be.”

Liturgical Colors Blue - used during Advent, it symbolizes waiting, expectation and hope.

White - used for Christmas, Easter and other festivals of Christ, it represents brightness, joy and festivity.

Green - used for Epiphany and Time After Pentecost, it depicts spiritual growth, mission and Jesus’ teachings.

Purple - used during Lenten, it is associated with repentance from sin and a reminder of the new life promised in Christ.

Red - used for the Day of Pentecost and Reformation Sunday, it symbolizes fire, energy and blood.

On the Road continued from p. 5 next, but once again found himself disappointed in the dilapidated state of the city outside the casino area. He planned to spend two or three days there, but left after one.

When Bill departed for his cross country trip, many people cautioned him to keep an eye on his gas tank. He even had an extra two-and-a-half-gallon container of gas on hand, just in case. As he headed through Death Valley, his bike sputtered to a stop. He’d already used the spare tank, and he was stuck in the middle of one of the hottest places in the country. Luckily, there was a trailer nearby, where a woman was able to collect a few drops of gas from several cans she had in her yard. It was just enough gas to get him to the next town.

After stopping at a quaint bed and breakfast in a town with a population of 37, he headed to the Grand Canyon. Much of the 150-mile trek had Bill fighting rain, sleet and wind. He arrived at the national park, his first-time visiting the site, only to find “I couldn’t see one single thing,” he said.

The miles began wearing on Bill, and he considered hopping on a plane to return home. “Up to that point, I enjoyed it,” he said. Despite feeling run down, Bill wanted to fulfill his dream. He didn’t plan many major stops on the way home, although he found some delicious Mexican and Native American food in New Mexico. He cut through Texas and skirted past Oklahoma City. He spent a day in New Orleans where he checked out some famous restaurants. Overall, though, “it was not a comfortable town,” he said. “You felt like you were being watched.” The Gulf Coast offered beautiful views, and Bill felt that could be a trip in itself.

He continued through Mississippi to the Florida panhandle. After some mixed messages, he missed seeing his niece in Miramar Beach, Fla., but stopped in Tallahassee and Jacksonville. His last stop was in Florence, S.C. He hopped on his bike to continue the more than 500 miles back to Masonic Village. In the home stretch, he encountered one of the worst places to drive: Washington, D.C. Even traffic couldn’t slow him down now – he “could smell Elizabethtown,” he said.

Home Sweet Home Bill returned the evening of Sept. 22 – 45 days and 8,200 miles after his departure. After climbing off his bike one last time, he greeted some friends on the porch of his apartment building, took a shower and slept until 2 p.m. the following day. His next priority was picking up his dog, who he missed greatly.

Overall, the trip left him with many good memories. “I think I picked a good route,” he said. “I was never too far from something I wanted to see. I was going to drive to Alaska and come down the coast – I’m glad I didn’t do that!” His favorite stop by far was Wyoming. “If I was 30 years younger, I’d move there. It was just beautiful.”

He met countless people along the way, including several women who wanted their photo taken on his bike. “Their husbands took the photos, not me,” he said. “Everywhere I went, people were nice.”

Bill was born in Ohio, but spent much of his childhood in Daytona Beach, Fla. He joined the Navy, during which time he attended electronic school. He served overseas for three months on Ascension Island along the African coast mapping the ocean floor. He didn’t realize it at the time, but he was helping to map missile targets. While stationed in Bainbridge, Md., he met his future wife, June. They settled in Lancaster, where Bill worked for RCA for 28 years, then owned several of his own restaurants and retired for good after managing two eateries. Bill has two children and June has four. They have 13 grandchildren.

In 2011, when caring for June became difficult for Bill, he looked into Masonic Village. While at the time he wasn’t quite ready for a move himself, “the next thing I knew, I was here,” he said. “I love it! The people are nice. The food is good and there is a lot of entertainment.”

Bill has hundreds of photos to process from the trip. He plans to put together a slide show for his fellow residents to enjoy. As for his bike, he’s ready to sell it to another adventurer.

His bucket list also includes skydiving, but for now, he’s happy to relax at home and enjoy time with his family.

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The Village Voice • Fall 2012

Masonic Villages’ Wish List THANK YOU to everyone for helping make wishes come true for residents of the Masonic Villages! An up-to-date list is available on the Masonic Charities’ website, www.MasonicCharitiesPa.org, or by contacting the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454.

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

Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill Cost Per Item 32 Televisions $400 1 Flat Screen TV and Wii Game System $1,229 Harvest Ball Event $2,500 1 Stand Up Garden $1,799 Spirit of Philadelphia Lunch Cruise Outing $1,950 District of Columbia Museums w/Lunch & Transportation $2,400 Baltimore Aquarium w/Lunch & Transportation $3,150 Broadway Shows w/Transportation $3,700 Drama Lessons/Activities for Residents $3,000 1 Wind Jammer Machine $3,000 1 NuStep Machine $6,000 1 Sit-to-Stand Lift with Power Base $3,500 1 Van with Lift $45,000 1 It’s Never 2 Late See article on p. 8 $24,000 1 ID Card Printer $11,300 Masonic Village at Warminster 7 Wheelchairs 1 Chair Scale 1 Stereo Sound System for Dining Room Masonic Village at Sewickley 1 Photosmart Compact Printer with Extra Cartridges 1 Hand Rail Tilt and Roll Scale 2 Outdoor Tents (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 $275 $1,000 $1,500 Cost Per Item $250 $1,550 $1,800 $4,100 $4,400 $7,400 $20,000

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Massages or Healing Touch for Pain 48 Wireless Headphones for TV 20 Christmas Trees for Festival of Lights 1 Xbox 360 Kinect Bundle 4 Merry Walkers 3 Blanket Warmers 1 Wii Game System with Games (golf & fishing) 10 Horticulture Gardens - Raised 14 Thermometers 1 Electric Lift Recliner 87 APM2 Mattresses - 80 x 35 1 Scale for Common Area 15 Wheelchairs - Specialty 1 Camel Lifting Device System 10 Massage Chairs - Heated 1 Tran or Peddle Carts (or motorized) 2 Keyboards - Digital 1 Portable Sound System for Resident Chorus Group 1 Life Fitness Recumbent Bike 1 Tonopen 1 Vital Sign Machine 1 Golf Cart with Weather Cover 8 Lifts (full) - includes estimated shipping 1 MVTV Editing Equipment 1 SciFit 1 NuStep Machine 1 Disc Golf Course 1 Treadmill for Rehab Dept.

Cost Per Item $65 $80 $135 $300 $350 $400 $500 $500-$1,000 $650 $1,000 $1,200 $1,400 $1,500 $1,800 $2,000 $2,000 $2,500 $2,502 $2,532 $3,000 $3,200 $3,500 $3,700 $4,000 $4,645 $6,332 $10,000 $10,200

Financial information about Masonic Charities can be obtained by contacting us at 800-599-6454. In addition, Masonic Charities is required to file financial information with several states. Colorado: Colorado residents may obtain copies of registration and financial documents from the office of the Secretary of State, (303) 894-2680, http://www.sos.state.co.us/.

Florida: SC No. 00774, A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE, WITHIN THE STATE, 1-800-HELP-FLA. Georgia: full and fair description of the programs and activities of Masonic Charities and its financial statement are available upon request at the address indicated above. Illinois: Contracts and reports regarding Masonic Charities are on file with the Illinois Attorney General. Maryland: For the cost of postage and copying, documents and information filed under the Maryland charitable organizations laws can be obtained from the Secretary of State, Charitable Division, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401, (800) 825-4510. Michigan: MICS No. 11796 Mississippi: The official registration and financial information of Masonic Charities may be obtained from the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office by calling 1-888-236-6167. New Jersey: INFORMATION FILED WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL CONCERNING THIS CHARITABLE SOLICITATION AND THE PERCENTAGE OF CONTRIBUTIONS RECEIVED BY THE CHARITY DURING THE LAST REPORTING PERIOD THAT WERE DEDICATED TO THE CHARITABLE PURPOSE MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE ATTORNEY GENERAL BY CALLING (973) 504-6215 AND IS AVAILABLE ON THE INTERNET AT www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ocp.htm#charity. REGISTRATION WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT. New York: A copy of the latest annual report can be obtained from the organization or from the Office of the Attorney General by writing the Charities Bureau, 120 Broadway, New York, NY 10271. North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 1-888-830-4989. Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of Masonic Charities may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free, within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999.

Virginia: Financial statements are available from the State Office of Consumer Affairs, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23218.

Washington: The notice of solicitation required by the Charitable Solicitation Act is on file with the Washington Secretary of State, and information relating to financial affairs of Masonic Charities is available from the Secretary of State, and the tollfree 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.

The Village Voice • Fall 2012

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Home Sweet Home T

hough John Savickas has traveled and lived all around the world, he and his wife, Billie, chose to retire in one of their favorite places – his hometown at Masonic Village at Dallas.

“I don’t have to do anything. I don’t have to shovel snow. I don’t have to mow the lawn,” he said. “We like it up here. It’s quite nice.

It’s peaceful here, and I like the country feel.”

John originally left Dallas in 1959 when he joined the Air Force. After serving his country, John entered the research and development industry and found an interest in the oil industry. He moved to another Dallas, this time in Texas, for work, and ended up meeting his wife, Billie, in the 1970s. He traveled all over the world for his job and Billie often accompanied him. Together, they lived in Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia. Whether traveling or living in a foreign country, John said, “We always found time to do some sightseeing.”

A member of George M. Dallas Lodge No. 531, Dallas, Pa., John has been familiar with the Masonic Villages for some time, but he and Billie learned more about Masonic Villages when his parents moved to Masonic Village at Elizabethtown in 2000. John’s father passed away just six weeks after moving into retirement living, but his mother has thrived as she has moved through the community’s continuum of care.

“Since my mother has been living at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, we have spent a lot of time there and met a lot of people who help in various ways and serve in the dining rooms.

They’ve been so nice and done so much good for my mother. They take great care of her.”

The Savickases retired in Dallas, Texas, but when they wanted a single-story home, they put their names on the waiting list at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Part-way through the decision-making process, they decided they would rather return to John’s hometown and

Noah Davis, executive director; John and Billie Savickas; and Alvin Blitz, chief gift planning officer

made the move to the Masonic Village at Dallas in November 2008.

In April 2011, the Savickases wanted to ensure other people continued to receive the same loving services John’s mother has received, so John and Billie made a very generous bequest donation to the Masonic Villages.

On June 6, the Irem Clubhouse Restaurant was dedicated to the Savickases. As a member of the Irem Shrine and an active participant of the Shrine’s Shepherds Unit, which transports children and their parents to the Shriners Hospitals, a naming opportunity in the Irem Clubhouse seemed more than appropriate. John and Billie were joined by Alvin Blitz, chief gift planning officer, and Masonic Village at Dallas staff for the intimate plaque unveiling. Afterward, everyone enjoyed lunch and cake in the restaurant together.

Renovations continued from p. 7 very important to create that impeccable first impression. Residents are very proud of their dining room and this just made it over the top.”

For breakfast and evening buffet services, four stations each offer something different: • Action/display station - staffed by chefs who offer a variety of sautéed and stir fry dishes, and on occasion, dishes which can be cooked and plated per each resident’s liking, such as chicken stir fry, carved ham, omelettes, Cobb salad and grilled cheese hot off the grill • Garden station - fresh salad options • Entrée station - two to four options: two which were also available at the noon meal, a sandwich board special and an occasional chef special • Dessert station - three to four choices each day For the noon à la carte meal, residents can choose from three entrées and an occasional chef special, a speciality salad, two hot sides and two vegetables, as well as the garden and dessert stations.

“The buffet stations add more fun to the menu offering, especially the action station,” Daphne said. “They stir up the daily routine and give residents something to anticipate and look forward to. They also add flexibility and variety to our daily menu, including more vegetables and fiber choices.”

“There are definitely more choices. I like the way the food is cooked,” said Rosemary Breslow, who frequently eats in the Grand Lodge Hall Dining Room.

“I’m very pleased. There’s a lot more room. People get around better. It works out well. I like that we can go anywhere on campus to eat. Where I eat depends on the menu that day.”

Clubhouse Dining Room and Courtyard Café Renovations to the Clubhouse Dining Room and Courtyard Café began in September. The former private dining room will become a serving area, where during the noon meal, menu options will include a carving station, an action station, and two hot buffet lines (one on each side). The buffet lines will provide five to seven menu offerings, including two to three entrées, two starch and two vegetables. The salad bar from the Courtyard Café will be relocated to the dining room and a dessert display area will be created.

Aesthetically, the dining room will feature new colors and textures. Residents can look forward to new chairs, carpet and window treatments.

In the Courtyard Café, staff will have more work space. A new dish machine will help ease traffic flow through the residents’ waiting area. New chairs, table tops, carpet and window treatments will add a decorative touch. Menus will be printed in a new format.

Enhancing residents’ living areas provides a fresh feel and a warm environment to visit with friends and family, relax and explore interests. More varied dining options allow residents to choose the foods they like the most, and when and where they enjoy them. The hardest part will be making up their minds!

Grand Lodge Hall Dining Room action/display station

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The Village Voice • Fall 2012

Memorial Gifts May 1 - July 31, 2012 Below is a list of individuals (names are shown in red) whose loved ones have made a gift in their memory to one of the five Masonic Villages located at Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill, Sewickley or Warminster.

Great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of the names listed below. We regret any errors or omissions.

If an error has been made, please contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454, 717-367-1121, ext. 33003, or by emailing giving@masonicvillagespa.org. Thank you.

We apologize for this error in the Harold and Betty Burgess Summer 2012 issue of the Gary R. Burgess Village Voice. The following is Robert L. Burns the correct listing: Sunset Lodge No. 623 Bowman B. Burrier Albert Kling, Jr. Cora E. Burrier Albert B. Kling Frank W. Busch, Sr. Frank W. Busch, Jr. Richard W. Abel Mary A. Byers Joyce Billetdeaux Ann Marie Brown Mary Erickson and Family Ellen DeStefano and Martin Art and Shirley Rowley Conlin Mr. and Mrs. William H. M. Dale and Elizabeth Adams Hench William S. Adams Barbara Hibsman Ralph E. Aldinger Marion Hibsman Miriam M. Aldinger Perry Chapter No. 459, OES Bonita (Bonnie) Ashe Kathryn Sheaffer William F. Ashe Carl and Patricia Thomas Harriet Z. Bachman Shirley Thornton Allen S. Zimmerman David and Constance Nettie M. Balsley Wagner George J. Balsley Barbara Campanella Donald L. Barley BCK & Associates, LLC Milford L. Barley Thomson Lamination Marjorie Barnhart Company, Inc. Clara Desko Geraldine Wintrode Carlin Linda Johnson Lois H. Witmer Gilda D. Jones James D. Challenger Anthony Bauer Sarah E. Challenger Leota B. Bauer Thomas W. Chappel, Sr. Ethel H. Beck Sunset Lodge No. 623 Stan and Paulette Neumann Robert P. and Edna E. Becker Howard Clark James H. Clark Robert I. Becker Robert T. Clough, Sr. Earl N. Benz Dale H. Haller Virginia F. Benz Vance J. Cole Audrey Betson Samuel E. Cole Friendship Chapter No. 551, Edward H. Comly OES Harry A. Houseman Lodge C. Clayton Bintliff No. 717 George W. Bintliff, III Oliver H. Condran, Sr. Roger M. Blake Jeffrey J. Condran Juniata Lodge No. 282 Lorraine M. Cook Dewitt B. Blank Michael E. Wood Joanne C. Blank Adam D. Croumer Perry T. Blum Dean R. Miller M. Marion Blum Irma M. Davidson Matthew W. Boyle Betty J. Estep McKinley-Stuckrath Lodge Billie J. Herring and Haven No. 318 Best Marian A. Brady Edwin F. Davies, Sr. Hershey Chapter No. 509, Edwin F. Davies OES Harriet K. Daye William J. Brooks Tracy H. Miller, III Carolyn E. Brooks William (Bill) Dayton Jane E. Brubaker Phyllis L. Dayton Philip and Lois Boyer Jacob DeHoff Russell and Joan Hoff William H. Walter Constance McAlister Herbert E. DeMart Mark and Deborah Tamny Herbert C. DeMart Jeff and Brenda Wagner

Marian E. Derk Mr. and Mrs. Chester A. Derk, Jr. Harold (Whitey) Dietrich Robert W. Haldeman Mary Kathryn Dietrich Thomas and Nancy Crawford John J. Donati 161st Grand Assembly Committee Ronald Douglas Eileen J. Douglas Ellen Marie Doyle William J. Doyle Betty F. Duckett Robert C. Duckett Loretta M. Duckett Robert C. Duckett Mary Anne Klemkosky Pamela Miller and Family Robert and Alice Pinnock Tom and Lynn Walsh and Family Thelma A. DuPuis Bernice E. Eichman Edna M. Edsall James H. Edsall Ervin Ehresmann Southampton Square Club Edward Ellefson Lorena Ellefson Betty Elwell Benjamin H. Elwell Janet Elwell Benjamin H. Elwell Barbara J. Emert Barbara C. Isaacman Jimmie G. Erwin Jimmie G. Erwin, Jr. Jack R. Eshenour Catherine E. Eshenour John Paul Espy, Jr. Barbara J. Espy Ray W. Fairchild Lake Erie Lodge No. 347 Ruth L. Fassett William and Linda Conway Warren P. Reeves John and Maria Schmidt Christine Stockholm James and Annabeth Williams Marilyn A. Feeser Robert and Alice Pinnock George A. Ferguson Irene L. Ferguson C. Richard Fetherlin Sunset Lodge No. 623 Lois A. Fidura Marvin E. Kleinman

Bernard Fineman Hackenburg Mount Moriah Lodge No. 19 Harry and Dorothy Fisher William S. Fisher Forrest E. Forney Robert C. Forney William B. Frank Frank Lerman Charles E. Frankenberger, Sr. Charles E. Frankenberger, Jr. Barbara L. Frantz Robert A. Frantz Charles C. Frazier Caroline S. Frazier Earl D. Frick Barry A. Johnson Robert G. Fritz Eureka Lodge No. 290 L. Marie Fry David E. Cale Richard W. Gable Anna R. Gable Robert Gabriel Stanley A. Reith Mary Galli Art and Shirley Rowley Russell B. and Mary E. Gehris Marilyn E. Sheldon Dorothy Gennaccaro Joyce Billetdeaux Jack L. Gillmore Vicki Gillmore Harry and Doris Longenecker Janet H. M. Ginther Robert W. Haldeman Thomas E. Glidden, Sr. Raymond W. and Lois E. Barber Lorelle Batton and Children Raymond and Jeanne Dunn Jim Heckman Randee Kinker Millard L. Kroh, II Harry and Phyllis McFadden Mr. and Mrs. James McGlynn Louis D. and Sophia T. Miller Clifford and Phyllis Otto Eric L. and Sue C. Perkins Tony and Dot Pesarchik George and Myrtle Rickards Doris Schmidt Elvin F. Silvius Whitey and Arlene Von Nieda Faye Weidman David A. Gontz Michael B. Mckee UMass Boston - EEOS Department

Mr. and Mrs. Francis J. Goschler Robert A. Goschler David R. Graham Sharon Graham Donald E. Gregg Helen D. Gregg Robert G. Griffith Marguerite H. Griffith Jessie M. Griffiths Lewis J. Griffiths Alfred J. Grime Esther G. Grime Meade Harold Hahn, II Jeffrey R. Mathias Betty L. Hall Clarence E. Hall William (Bill) Hall Tom and Ruth Mason Jack R. Harbaugh Lamona G. Harbaugh Frank T. Harrison, III Nancy Smith-Harrison Barry Lee Hassinger Joan L. Hassinger Willis M. Haughton Sunset Lodge No. 623 William R. Hearing Harry A. Houseman Lodge No. 717 Paul W. Hess Judith A. Hess Marilyn Hoffman Anne G. Muhl Lisa A. Shufeldt June E. Beyer Homan Carl D. Homan George Honaberger Daniel D. Honaberger Earl R. Hossman Lake Erie Lodge No. 347 John N. Hostetter, Sr. Donald Zeamer Robert P. Hromika, Sr. Carolyn Hromika Kenton E. Hull June Hull Calvin E. Hutchison Carl K. Hutchison Thomas W. Jackson Richard L. Jackson Mabel C. Jankowski Conrad Weiser Chapter No. 449, OES Paul and Betty Murray Ralph H. Johnson Gary and Nancy Fleming Bob and Sandy Patrician

Continued on next page

The Village Voice • Fall 2012

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Leonard A. Juliani, Sr. Marcella E. Juliani Carl E. Keener Shirley A. Keener Irvin D. Kline Charles and Betty Astfalk Donald and Marie Hausman Donald B. Morgan Margaret V. Terry Albert Kling, Jr. Albert B. Kling Gary E. Knapp Eureka Lodge No. 290 Helen Cope Knelly Denise S. Dougherty Reed Knox Marjorie Knox Helen Koenig George K. Overly Dorothy (Dottie) L. Koser Thad and Erma Carr and Family Barry and Judy Hoffman Donald R. Krause Clair Murphy Donald J. Redlich John H. Swan William and Carmen Zilch Louis Kourelakos Robert and Joanne Bateman Catherine Demakakos Niki and Elenie Depountis Prokopios and Athanasia Karvounis Meredith G. Laden Pauline Nicolakokos NYC Office of Payroll Administration Employees Rosalie Rothnagel Guy N. Kratzer Gary G. Kratzer Wilber D. Lambert Bob, Kathy, Carly and Rachel Atkins Rob and Gail Canizares Continuous Learning Group, Inc. Leslie Braksick, Karen Gorman and Friends at CLG Darryl and Marcia Fink MSA - North American Sales Channels Dept.

PNC Bank Dave and Valerie Straight Marcus and Donna Weber Larry and Mary Werner Bob and Patty Yurko Edward and Elizabeth Zezinka Warren W. Latz Mary J. Latz John Lawson George H. Siebert, Jr. Anna E. Lazur Stephen A. Lazur John (Jack) W. Linn Julia E. Linn Dominick Lizzi, Sr. David Lizzi, Sr. David Ross Luckock Raymond E. Luckock Thomas Lunger Edward C. Kasten, Sr.

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Jane Mager Neighbors and Friends of Gail Wehmeyer Lawrence A. Marks Geraldine W. Marks William Martz Jeffrey M. Baker Joseph G. and Catherine May, Jr. Joseph G. May, III Henry H. and Ruth E. McCague Robert H. McCague Frank P. McCluskey, Jr. Francis P. McCluskey, III Byron O. McCollum Craig B. McCollum, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Jack McCrae Edward P. Pfendner Jeanne McDowell Friendship Chapter No. 551, OES Mary M. McGrath Betty S. Hetherington L. Sherwood Lennartson Art and Shirley Rowley Marvin M. Wedeen Gerald D. McMaster Vida L. McMaster Wilbert R. McSteen Joyce Billetdeaux Thomas H. Mercer, Jr. Helen D. Mercer George A. Metz Alice J. Metz Paul E. Meyers Donald C. Meyers Campbell Mike Doric Lodge No. 630 William (Bill) and Jean Millar David and June Nimick Harry S. Mills H. Sinclair Mills, Jr. William H. and Clara Monahan William A. Monahan David and Elizabeth Morris Roland B. Morris, Sr. Mary Margaret Morris William and Shirley Lee William and Tracy Morris Your Mother and Father William T. Parry Frank Munz William F. Munz Joan C. Murgitroyde Harry A. Houseman Lodge No. 717 Jean L. Myers Barbara C. Hobby Jerry B. Lauer Bernice and James Naples James P. Naples Ethel P. Naylor Barbara Shields James Nelson Art and Shirley Rowley James C. Nickle Thomas Kamerzel Frank D. Noack Marion S. Noack Dorothy Obdyke Friendship Chapter No. 551, OES

The Village Voice • Fall 2012

Eugene B. Oliver Howard E. Oliver Richard C. Owens William T. Barkley Kathryn M. Painter Michael W. Chapman Dean F. Paist Southampton Square Club Your Parents Harry C. and Carolyn A. Thomas Dorothy B. Peeling Jack W. Peeling Joseph Petrosky 161st Grand Assembly Committee Phillip E. Pfeiffer McKinley-Stuckrath Lodge No. 318 John Pfendner Edward P. Pfendner Norman C. Pickering Harry A. Houseman Lodge No. 717 Eleanor Marion Plymette Marlin L. Plymette Shirley M. Powell Capital City Chapter No. 146, OES Copper Development Association, Inc. Ida May Englehart Alice L. Fealtman LuAnn P. Gallup James and Marion Gussett Joyce E. Haney William and Nancy Herbst Jeffrey M. Kopack Joe and Robin Lindsey PT/OT Faculty and Staff – Scranton University Patricia Schadel Barbara Wagner Mr. and Mrs. A. S. Pringle John A. Pringle Russell Probst Clintin and Karen Probst Ted Probst Clintin and Karen Probst Richard B. Ream Marian J. Ream William J. Reinsmith Oliver D. Reinsmith Ernest E. and Elias Ritter Clair E. Ritter Selena M. Roberts Marion Blum Chris and Joan Reynolds Barbara Shields Paul A. Rostad Robert, Margie and Jeff Gregoire Thomas S. Royer, Jr. Robert A. Royer Carmen C. Ruggero Southampton Square Club Charles L. Rush Richard and Arline Baringer J. Paul and Joanne Lim, Jr. The O’Leary Family The Refowich Family Barbara, Berenice, and Robert Alethia Smith Roger Sacks Marion F. Attaviano

Lillian B. Sanders C. Vernon Sanders Joseph Scarpino Ronald J. Malik Fern L. Schade Robert J. Schade John Schmidt Charles F. Schwender Walter Dale Seese Dorothy A. Seese Thomas G. Seman, Jr. Richard J. Fenstermaker William K. Settle Harry A. Houseman Lodge No. 717 Mildred L. Shaffer Larry A. Shaffer, Sr. Herbert F. Sharp Hackenburg Mount Moriah Lodge No. 19 John M. Shaud, Jr. Mary H. Shaud Albert E. Shipley Barbara V. Shipley James G. Sholly Betty J. Sholly Florence Shorter Friendship Chapter No. 551, OES Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Shuller Barry L. Zimmerman Eugene W. Skiffington Sunset Lodge No. 623 Preston Skinner William B. Bliss Harold W. Smith Harold E. Smith George Snear, Sr. Ronald R. Rodenbaugh, Sr. Richard A. Snyder Juniata Lodge No. 282 Frances Polan South Furman South, III Robert Spangenberg Larry J. Wolford Pauline Spangler Delbert L. Skinner James F. Standish, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. George Duda Kim W. Jeffreys Vance A. LaVanture Paul and Lucille Mayfield W. L. Gore and Associates James H. Staver, Jr. Nellie D. Staver John C. Stevens Charles and Betty Astfalk Harold and Geraldine Brimer Fay Ann Grider Janet A. Sandt Margaret V. Terry Margaret K. Stine Robert K. Stine H. Barton Stone Helen A. Stone Doris J. Strahlendorf Herbert and Lois Reynolds Dorothy B. Street Louis Heinz and Family Ivan Sucic Thomas Sucic Steven F. Supp Margaret P. Supp

Donald A. Taylor ABB, Inc. Russell D. and Joan L. Hoff James and Denise Kincaid The Little League Gang Tom and Bette Abraham Helen Biehl Virginia Ceneviva Patricia Fleming Ester M. Jones Dave and Ruth Moss James H. Taylor Catherine M. Taylor Thomas Tooma John P. Ippolito Mary Troxell Friendship Chapter No. 551, OES Eunice S. Troy Paul and Mary Belle Smail Ben and Barbara Troy Colleen Weyandt Sally W. Turnbull Edmund A. Turnbull Elizabeth (Betty) G. Tustin Barbara Shields Dorothy M. Veit Charlie and Linda Cassady Christopher and Cheryl Lockard Andris and Mary Theresa Purvins Lucille Schlack Harvey L. Sokoloff Walter C. and Barbara A. Staller George E. and Helen L. Wade Glenn R. Wade George D. Walter William H. Walter Blanche and Herman Watters David W. Bechtel Helen Westenberger Fred W. Kramer Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Williams Robert C. Klotz Herman C. Willis William J. Reaghard Marilyn J. Wilson Marion F. Attaviano Wilson Jason Egenski David E. Winter Loretta M. Winter Ethel Winter Richard D. Winter Tommy W. Witchey Myles B. Witchey Donna A. Wolfe Kenneth N. Wolfe Hobert C. Wolfe, Jr. Janet L. Wolfe Winifred H. Wolfe Faith Chapter No. 444, OES Arthur Wood Mark A. Bennett Mr. and Mrs. Claud Zimmerman Barry L. Zimmerman Donald R. Zimmerman Daniel E. Zimmerman

Honorarium Gifts May 1 - July 31, 2012 Below is a list of individuals (names are shown in red) whose loved ones have made a gift in their honor to one of the five Masonic Villages located at Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill, Sewickley or Warminster. Great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of the names listed below. We regret any errors or omissions. If an error has been made, please contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454, 717-367-1121, ext. 33003, or by emailing giving@masonicvillagespa.org. Thank you.

Mount Pisgah Lodge No. 443 Ronald L. Nicarry Louise M. Bachman William B. McIntyre, Jr. Miriam Bennett Shirley A. Fober Betty Blum M. Marion Blum Debra A. Brockman Emmaus Lodge No. 792 Richard and Margaret Case Dennis and Sylvia Ulion Dorothy L. Condran Jeffrey J. Condran Louella C. Coons Harold J. Bucks

Chester A. Derk, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Chester A. Derk, Jr. Dorothy A. Ehleiter William C. Ehleiter, Jr. Stephen Gardner Lehigh Valley Day Lodge No. 813 Betty R. Grove Mr. and Mrs. Eric Grove James W. Johnson Ossea Lodge No. 317 Mrs. Jimmie Jones Shirley Jones Pauline Lerman Frank Lerman Joann McElravy Bruce A. Baumgartner

George E. Meck Marlin L. Plymette Oliver D. Reinsmith Oliver’s 50th Anniversary as a Member of Solomon’s Lodge No. 3 David Rihl Dorothy B. Kane Margaret Rohnacher Dayton L. Holmes Phyllis E. Stevens Kenneth I. Rose Barry W. Van Rensler William M. and Gilda Sayres Wendy Riggall Stephen M. Shaffer Claude A. Shaffer

Alice E. Simoneau Dennis F. Shaffer Melissa Sites Elizabethtown Womens Club USS Spangenberg DE223 Larry J. Wolford A. Preston Van Deursen Phyllis E. Stevens Beatrice Whitmer Marc and Ann Falcinelli Florence E. Willis William J. Reaghard

Hospice Care Memorial Gifts May 1 - July 31, 2012 Below is a list of individuals (names are shown in red) whose loved ones have made a gift in their memory to Masonic Village Hospice Care which is offered at our Elizabethtown location. Great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of the names listed below. We regret any errors or omissions. If an error has been made, please contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454, 717-367-1121, ext. 33003, or by emailing giving@masonicvillagespa.org. Thank you.

Wayne C. Blecher M. Dorothy Aurand Teresa C. DeSanto E. Laverne Eyer Robert S. Havner Karin Huttenlocher Bonnie L. Nauman PMA Companies Gerald and Madeline Schuldt Service Supply Corp.

Marian A. Brady Edward Brady Earl A. Deibert Brian and Kathleen Baver Guy and Janet Geschwindt Kim A. Gross Mary Anne Klemkosky James L. and Mary Frances Peiffer

Ronald L. George June Foley Marilyn Hoffman Dr. and Mrs. Scott Funt Steven and Debbie Gundersen

Shirley M. Powell Kevin and Trudi Hoch Craig and Tami Morgan Larry and Rhona Wintersteen Esther Zeager Harris E. and Melody H. Ransom

Masonic Charities New Website

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isit www.MasonicCharitiesPa.org for a new look at the Masonic Charities. The site features information about each of the five Masonic Charities, how to give and testimonials from those who support our charities. Check it out whether you’re looking to give now, provide a recurring gift, contribute a legacy gift or seek advice on estate planning.

As always, you may call the Office of Gift Planning to speak with a staff member: • Alvin H. Blitz, Esq., chief gift planning officer - out-of-state inquiries 717-367-1121, ext. 33312, 800-599-6454 or ablitz@masonicvillagespa.org •

James R. Heckman, director of gift planning - Central PA region 717-367-1121, ext. 33437 or jheckman@masonicvillagespa.org

•

Joyce F. Michelfelder, director of gift planning - Eastern PA region 610-825-6100, ext. 1348 or jmichelf@masonicvillagespa.org

•

Jane W. Binley, director of gift planning - Western PA region 412-741-1400, ext. 3011 or jbinley@masonicvillagespa.org

•

Joyce E. May, director of annual fund development 717-367-1121, ext. 33311 or jmay@masonicvillagespa.org

We welcome you to attend our virtual housewarming any time it suits you. We’ll be here!

The Village Voice • Fall 2012

19

Masonic Village One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022-2199 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Look to the past for a great gift idea for the upcoming holidays ...

MASONIC VILLAGE AT ELIZABETHTOWN HISTORY BOOK Keep the Masonic Village centennial close to heart! Pour through hundreds of photographs, thousands of facts and stories of people whose lives have been impacted by the Masonic Village in this 212-page coffee-table style book.

WAS $40 NOW JUST

$

20!

• Available in Masonic Village at Elizabethtown gift shops in the Masonic Health Care Center, Grand Lodge Hall and Clubhouse.

• Order online at www.masonicvillagespa.org/ catalog.php and select Centennial Gift Items. $10 shipping not included. Allow two weeks for delivery.

Tax is included.

Offer is not valid on prior purchases.