A Joint Publication of the Ohio Masonic Home and The Grand Lodge of Ohio
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BEACON Memory Reflection: Masons at Preble County Fair Brother Kurt Muncy falls in Service to His Country Masonic Aging Services Medical Supply Memories All Around Special Olympian’s Mother Shares a Message of Gratitude Freemasonry...Together We Can
Volume 20, Issue 3 Summer 2013
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Together
We Can...
for a young girl named Emily, raising money for the Memory Care units in Medina and in Waterville and thousands of Masons and their ladies that traveled to Put-in Bay for a historical day on that tiny island on July 4th to be part of the Cornerstone Reenactment Ceremony. Ten Grand Lodges from the United Sates and Canada came together for this wonderful event. When I was thinking of my theme, “Together We Can” I asked myself, how many different ways could Brothers in this great state utilize this theme in their daily lives? I am amazed at the number of Lodges, Brothers and other bodies of Masonry that have come together this year for many different and exciting events. I have witnessed Lodges coming together on community projects, Districts pulling the best people from their respective Districts together for the Grand Masters One Day Class, raising money and support
I am so proud of all of the Masons and their ladies for all that each of you do on an everyday basis. We have seen Lodges work very hard on Masonic Education, getting new members involved in their Lodge, raising money for every kind of charity that you can think of and a number of Lodges (13) celebrating anniversary’s from 50 years (Stow Lodge No. 768) to 200 years (Rising Sun Lodge no. 22). Each event was very enjoyable and I wish the best of luck to each of them. The Pay it Forward program has started very well, and I am proud to say that the first certificate issued
The Ohio Beacon is published quarterly. Please report all changes of address to your Lodge secretary, who, in turn, will notify the Grand Secretary, who maintains the database that produces the BEACON mailing labels. Chad Simpson Director of Program Development The Grand Lodge F&AM of Ohio One Masonic Drive Springfield, OH 45504 614-885-5318 csimpson@freemason.com
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Kristen Hirschfeld Communications Manager The Ohio Masonic Home 2655 W. National Road Springfield, OH 45504-3698 937-525-3025 khirschfeld@ohiomasonichome.org
was to my nephew Kyle, who has already petitioned and has received his first degree. My Brethren, the Grand Lodge Officers and I have traveled many miles this past year. We have seen excitement and enthusiasm in so many parts of the state, and it is great to behold. This needs to continue as we move into the future. Young men are joining this great Fraternity, and we need to embrace the challenge to keep them involved and interested in our Craft. If we don’t do it, ask yourself this. Who Will? Your Lodge Officers? Your Worshipful Master? Your Brother sitting across from you? Why not make it YOU? I would like to thank all of the Grand Lodge Officers and Past Grand Masters for their support this year. I could not have made this year as successful as it has been without each of you. It has been an honor for me to serve each and every Lodge and Mason in this great State. I am very proud of the great work each of you do for your Lodge and your families. I have said it many times before, Freemasonry is the greatest fraternity in the world and we need to keep this going for many years to come. Thank you again to each of you for a wonderful year. It has been amazing.
God Bless each of you and God Bless this Great Fraternity.
Reflecting on As the summer comes to a close and we head into the fall, I want to take a moment and reflect on all we have accomplished over these past three months. This year saw a brand new Home Day festival, with a focus on bringing together Masons from across the state of Ohio and the residents living in Springfield. Families spent the day riding on a horse-drawn carriage, going up in a hot air balloon, and trying to hit the target at the dunk tank. It was great to see everyone together in fellowship and enjoying all of the activities Home Day had to offer. I look forward to seeing even more of my brothers at next year’s festival. As we moved into the end of July I felt blessed to see the fruition of so much time and effort in the form of two new memory care centers. On Wednesday July 24, Browning Masonic Community in Waterville, Ohio held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the public to celebrate the opening of Pathways at Browning. It was a blessed day with cool temperatures
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and blue skies as our brothers and community members joined us and Grand Master Easterling. On Sunday July 28, Western Reserve Masonic Community in Medina, Ohio opened the doors to the Connecting Realities memory care center with a similar ceremony. These state-of-the-art neighborhoods are designed for those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Each has special design features which aid in the independence of residents, and help to ease the stress of their loved ones. Before long we will be riding down the road for the Miracle Miles for Memory Care road rally. Thanks to the fraternity we have come a long way in raising the money needed for the memory care centers. However, continued support for the centers will go toward programming and providing the best for each of the residents. I hope to see many brothers riding with us for the cause
in this and coming years. Finally, I would like to thank each and every one of you for your support of the Ohio Masonic Home and its subsidiaries. In reflecting on the past summer and the events that we have had, I cannot help but think of the initial reason for the founding of the Home. We began as a place to care for Masons, their widows and orphans. Today we continue that mission in ways our founding brothers could only dream. Thank you for partnering with us now and we look forward to exploring the ways we can serve the fraternity in the future.
MobiCare to release New Technology for Managing Alzheimer’s Disease Masonic Aging Services (MAS) announces the release of the upgraded version of MobiCare (version 3.0). MobiCare is a technology-based service specifically developed to assist caregivers, care recipients living with Alzheimer’s, family members and physicians in the management of Alzheimer’s disease. MobiCare’s performance stands out among caregiving tools with a multi-faceted approach to the management of
Alzheimer’s disease through a technology-based platform that monitors and reports medication symptom and schedule/task tracking. The software platform is accessible through a web-based site as well as a mobile application that synchronizes the medical information and task calendars for caregivers and family members that are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease.
Masonic Aging Services (MAS), the parent company, is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Ohio Masonic Home and is located in Springfield, Ohio. The Ohio Masonic Home offers over 125 years of experience in the caregiving space with three state of the art Memory Care Centers throughout Ohio. For more information visit www.gomobicare.com. SUMMER 2013
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Masons at
Perry County Fair
Members of the 13th Masonic District, which includes Perry County, manned a Masonic information booth during the Perry County Fair for the first time this year. Their goal was to reach out to the public and to help people better understand the fraternity.
Brother Kurt Muncy
falls in service to his country
Brother Kurt Muncy was working as an international police advisor in Kabul, Afghanistan when he and a dozen others were killed during a suicide bomb attack on July 2. Hundreds of Preble Country residents lined the streets in Eaton, Ohio to honor his sacrifice when his remains were returned under escort. His Masonic funeral services were conducted by Bolivar Lodge No. 82 on July 12. Muncy is representative of men and women who are serving in harm’s way as members of the US military and as civilian contractors. His death is a loss to his family and his community.
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Information about Freemasonry, its charities, brotherhood opportunities and the various related organizations were provided, and members were available to answer any questions. Lodges are encouraged to make use of these kinds of PR opportunities. Informational brochures are available through the Grand Lodge of Ohio, which also offers PR matching funds to help offset the cost.
Mike Jackson recognized for work with Vietnam Vets Brother Mike Jackson has been awarded the Grand Lodge of Ohio’s Rufus Putnam Award for his work to recognize veterans of the Vietnam War. Jackson is a retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel with 23 years of service, including 210 combat missions in Vietnam. His work for veterans began with his retirement in 1991. Jackson is particularly distinguished by his work with Operation Welcome Home, which recognizes and thanks Vietnam veterans by holding belated welcome home celebrations. Jackson is a native of Tipp City and a member of Tippecanoe Lodge.
Howie Damron recognized by New York Masons The Grand Lodge of New York has awarded its Distinguished Achievement Award to Brother Howie Damron, an Ohio Mason and country music artist. Damron has written a number of Masonic themed songs, earning him the unofficial title of the Troubadour of Freemasonry. He is probably best known for his first song, The Masonic Ring, which he wrote in 2003. Over the last decade, Damron’s blend of music and Masonry has made him a spokesman for Freemasonry, the Scottish Rite and DeMolay. Damron has performed regularly at Masonic functions in Ohio and across the nation. He is a member of Waterloo Lodge No. 532 and a recipient of the Grand Lodge of Ohio’s Community Service Award.
Masonic Lodges now eligible for Property Tax Exemption Property owned or occupied by qualifying fraternal orders such as Masonic lodges were made eligible for exemption from property taxes when Governor Kasich signed the new biennial budget. “This is a major financial boost to our lodges,” explained Grand Secretary Michael Watson, “and it should enable them to continue practicing the tenets of Brotherly love, relief and truth in their local communities.” Lodges must file the proper paperwork with their local County Auditor in order to receive the exemption. Lodges should contact Director of Program Development Chad Simpson for assistance in filing. He can be reached at the Grand Secretary’s office by phone, 800-292-6092, or by email, csimpson@freemason.com.
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MAS Medical Supply brings 15,000 Products to Your Door
the latest products which encourage independence and bringing them to the individuals who will use them to fulfill these aspirations.
Masonic Aging Services Corporation(MAS) is proud to introduce MAS Medical Supply as the latest in its line of products and services committed to serving those who wish to age in place. 95% of aging adults want to stay in their home, which leaves only 5% choosing to stay in a senior living community. As an aging services organization, MAS Medical Supply offers high quality in home medical supplies and equipment through a convenient, secure online store. With over 15,000 durable medical equipment products and consumable medical supplies available, aging adults and caregivers alike are able to shop in one place for a variety of items without leaving the comfort of their own home. An added benefit of home delivery brings supplies straight to customers’ doorsteps, with orders over $50 receiving free shipping. 6 SUMMER 2013
“At Masonic Aging Services we are continually assessing the needs of Masons who wish to stay in their homes as they age,” said Charles Dyer, President, Masonic Aging Services Corporation. “This allows us to constantly look at new and better products to include in our catalog.” Our philosophy of aspired living enables us to partner with likeminded individuals to enrich lives and empower our aging population. Our goal is to promote the independence and aspirations of those who wish to age well, where and how they want. We accomplish this mission by researching
Over 120 years of experience in aging services have been directed toward this initiative, and we consider it time well spent. Masonic Aging Services Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Ohio Masonic Home, is the trusted resource for Aspired Living by providing an appropriate level of leading edge, assistive technology as well as professional and service based support. For more information visit www. masmedicalsupply.com or call tollfree 877-881-1623.
Introducing the Masonic Aging Services PrintShop!
Masonic Aging Services
PrintShop We are excited to announce that we have started our very own print shop. Our new digital press can print high quality jobs equal to that of a traditional press in mere minutes! Our C8000 specializes in rapid, short run color printing. Have a brochure or newsletter you need printed? No problem. Have a multi-page document for an office presentation? Bring it to us and be prepared to impress your colleagues! No matter the complexity of the job, the quality and service of the MAS Printshop is unrivaled! Services Offered: Brochures Newsletters Business Cards Flyers Calendars
Booklets Placemats Posters Invitations Postcards
www.masprintshop.com 2655 W. National Rd, Springfield, OH 45414 (937)525-4939 printshop@ohiomasonichome.org
Hours of Operation Monday - Friday 9 am - 12 pm 1 pm - 4 pm SUMMER 2013
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Freemasonry
The ellipsis at the end of G motto represents an open for Ohio Freemasons. To that can be done to impro communities. Together w fellowship of the world’s o fraternity. Together we c we will enjoy for years to c
The Grand Master has bee opportunities during his photo tribute provides a w made use of his ellipsis...
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Together We Can...
Grand Master Easterling’s n ended opportunity ogether there is much ove ourselves and our we can enjoy the brotherly oldest and largest can make memories that come.
en busy fulfilling those travels across Ohio. This window into how he has
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Grand Lodge celebrates 100th Anniversary
Perry’s Monument The Grand Lodge Officers and more than 1,700 Freemasons and guests, including representatives of 10 Grand Lodges, joined together on July 4, 2013 to reenact the cornerstone ceremony for Perry’s monument on Put-In-Bay.
Alumni Reunion by Dick Snow The Child resident Alumni of the Ohio Masonic Home are making plans to celebrate their 31st Reunion on September 6, 2014. The Alumni arrive from the four corners of the United States to once again renew established friendships and tell stories of their residency while growing up in the Home. Reunions were held in 1909, 1910 and 1926 which established the official Alumni Reunion. Alumni Reunions were held sporadically until 1947 when it was organized to be held triennially. Since 2010, the reunions have been held every two years. Dick Snow, Joyce (Miller) Koopman, Patty (Woodruf) Kohl, and Cyntia (Whitacre) Cameron are former child residents who are drawing up plans for the 31st Reunion. *Ohio Masonic Home staff will be on hand displaying pictures and souvenirs from various time periods throughout its history and is looking forward to the opportunity to capture the highly entertaining stories of the Child Resident Alumni who attend.
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The day began with a Masonic parade and included a naturalization ceremony, the cornerstone ceremony, veterans recognition, and a concert and ended with an exceptional fireworks display.
Indian Lake Lodge celebrates Charter Member’s Milestone From left: Past Master Jack Carle (60 year member), Past Master Don Cooper (70 year member), Past Master Jack Galentine (70 year member), and District Deputy Grand Master Charles Woods. Cooper is the last living charter member of Indian Lake Lodge, where he remains very active.
Rockin’ it like a Grand Secretary Grand Secretary Michael Watson recently displayed his musical talent by playing the bass guitar for a reunion of The Nomads, the Rock n Roll band he played with in the late 1960s. After a 40 year hiatus, the band has played a midJuly concert every year since 2009.
Three Generations of Masons March at Put-In Bay From left: Brothers Richard B. Corado (grandfather), Cody M. Corado, (grandson), and Kim R. Corado, (father/son). SUMMER 2013
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MemoriesAll Around Anyone who works with seniors will tell you the one thing they all have in common: amazing memories. One of the most incredible aspects of being surrounded by this wealth of information is hearing these stories on a regular basis. Western Reserve Masonic Community is no exception. On any given day, you might hear stories about childhood, military life, or travel. Here are a few of our residents’ favorites. Susan Baker: “We first moved to the Pennsylvania hills outside Pittsburgh when I was 12, having just finished 6th grade. Mom taught me to embroider sitting there in a new home on a summer afternoon. That started my crafting career that continues to this day.” Barb Long: “In the summer while attending an American school in Santiago, Chile, a group of high school friends set out on an eight-hour trip across the Andes Mountains. We left early in the morning and had a nice sunshiny day. We reached the top of the mountain and saw the most beautiful view ever. We were able to see the city of Santiago below and the ocean beyond it. I will never forget how beautiful it was and what a good time we all had.” Ed Ferguson: “I was drafted into the Army during WWII at the age of 18. I served as a gunman in the 52nd Armored Infantry Battalion and received several distinguished awards during my service. Among those awards are a Bronze Star for 12 SUMMER 2013
exemplary performance of duty in active ground combat and the Purple Heart and Battle of the Bulge Medals. I traveled to France, Germany, and Austria, proudly serving our country.” Clarence Banks: “While Ed Ferguson in basic training in the with his med als south after being drafted at the age of 20, my mother called to say she was going to come visit me. There Buddy Jenrette: “Last year, I went was only train travel then and I was with my brother and two of his concerned that it was too crowded friends to Ft. Meyers, Florida. We and told her not to come. She was stayed at the Reno Del Ray Motel. In persistent and came anyway. We the morning, we stopped at a Publix went to a nightclub to dance. We grocery store for donuts and coffee. started to jitterbug to a big band on Then we chartered a fishing boat and a crowded dance floor. We danced went fishing for red fish, catfish and so well that eventually the crowd sharks. I didn’t catch a shark, but I stopped to watch! When the song did catch two large red fish--21”, 5lb was finished, the whole crowd began and 26”, 7lb! We grilled the fish for a to applaud loudly just for us. The dinner complete with potatoes, salad, applause was mostly for Mother. She was a handsome woman who was very and Key Lime pie. We had so much friendly and a beautiful dancer. It was fun that we are planning another trip the last time that I saw her before I was this year.” shipped overseas to fight in WWII.” We are very fortunate to have such a variety of interesting lives at WRMC— Carol Kachelein: “At the age of 47 I and even luckier that our residents became a grandmother for the first time, but my newborn grandchild was are willing to share pieces of their history with us! Perhaps the best part born in Turkey. My husband and I of all, however, is that our residents flew to Turkey, going through Rome continue to make new memories where we stayed and visited for three every day! days. We stayed in Turkey for three weeks. On our return to the U.S., we went through Switzerland and stayed for three days. It was a memory of a lifetime!”
Message Dear Ohio Masons,
I’m the parent of a Special Olympics athlete who competed this weekend at the state games. I got the chance to shake the hands of several Masons following the Opening Ceremonies, but I was too choked up to express how much your hard work is truly appreciated. We live in small town Jackson, Ohio with an even smaller community of families affected by developmental delays. So often our kids get overlooked and underappreciated even though they work so hard just to survive in a world that isn’t built for their disabilities be they physical or developmental. Special Olympics is such a celebration OF their accomplishments and abilities. You can’t imagine the immense amount of relief I feel one weekend a year being able to relax and not worry about my son being made uncomfortable by stares. Please share this message of gratitude with as many men who participated this weekend as possible. I want each and every one of them to understand they’re a hero simply by being there. Thank you so much for everything your organization does to support this profound and inspirational celebration of my son’s abilities. This weekend he felt acceptance and love on a grand scale, and words just don’t express how much it’s appreciated
Amy Miller
Proud mom of Alex Belcher, Special Olympics athlete! (Alex can be seen in the middle of the photo.)
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International Master Councilor
Brother Bob Laing, a member of Van Wert Lodge No. 218, was installed as the 47th International Master Councilor of DeMolay on June 15th, 2013 at the 46th DeMolay Congress in Minneapolis, MN.
Laing is the son of Barb & Kevin Laing of Van Wert, in North Western Ohio. Laing graduated from Van Wert High School and is currently a junior at Miami University of Ohio. His goal is to complete his undergraduate education at Miami and then to attend Dental School, ultimately to return to Van Wert and practice with his father as a fourth generation dentist.
men of the State Council.
Laing joined Van Wert Chapter Order of DeMolay on August 20, 2005. He was initiated at a statewide ceremony and became very excited and interested in emulating the young
The last International Master Councilor from Ohio was Brother Mark Loose of Upper Sandusky, Ohio, who served in 1974.
Laing served his chapter in a variety of offices and still serves as Almoner. In 2006, the members of Van Wert Chapter elected Bob to serve as Master Councilor. Laing served the Ohio State Council as Chaplain in 2009-2010, Deputy State Master Councilor in 2010-2011, and State Master Councilor in 2011-2012.
Ohio Mason leads
International Fraternal Organization Louis S. VanSlyck was elected Grand Worthy Chief of the Universal Craftsmen’s Council of Engineers at their General Convention in Peoria, IL. The UCC of E has been an Ohio Corporation since 1903. It has subordinate Councils in several states and provinces. The term “universal” in their title implies “international.” VanSlyck is Past Master of Trinity Lodge No. 710, in Canton, Ohio. He is a Knight of the York Cross of Honor, a fifty year member of all the York Rite bodies, and a 33rd degree Scottish Rite Mason. He is a recipient of the Purple Cross of York and served two terms as Grand Governor in Ohio for the York Rite Sovereign College of North America. He is currently serving as President of the Ohio Allied Masonic Degrees Association. Planning is underway for Ohio Council No. 15 to host the 2014 General Convention of the UCC of E at the Western Reserve Masonic Community in Medina, where VanSlyck is expected to preside. The UCC of E was formed in Cleveland, Ohio in 1903 by Master Masons who were members of various associations of steam or stationary engineers. Over the years, it has evolved from a trade organization with a common bond of Freemasonry to a purely fraternal organization, which now includes women as full members.
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Universal Remodeling
Solutions
What is Universal Design?
Universal Design is remodeling a house so that it can be used by any person regardless of age, size or ability. It is more than renovating a home; it is promoting independence for those who wish to age in place within their home. Renovation and remodel are typically words used for extensive projects; while URS is capable of a whole house remodel, in this case it can mean the simple installation of a grab bar or ramp. Other examples of universal design include right height commodes, wheelchair accessible halls, sinks, restrooms, recessed lighting, handrails, and more. From handy man to contractor, URS can handle most any project, and the best part is the contractors have been vetted and approved by the Ohio Masonic Home. No more paying for Angie’s List or working with fly-by-night contractors. How does Universal Design work? The typical project includes fewer steps than you think. Upon receiving suggestions from your occupational therapist or medical professional after an in home incident, you initiate contact with URS. However, preventative calls are welcome in which a case specialist can come to your home and make simple recommendations which may decrease the likelihood of a fall or incident. After the first phone call, a case specialist is sent out to listen to your needs, and will draft up a project timeline. Depending on the project they will then work with you on choosing the materials you want. Once all of the decisions have been made, the project will begin. Throughout the process the case specialist will be in contact with you providing updates.
Connecting Realities
Memory Care Center
As the Connecting Realities Memory Care center at Western Reserve Masonic Community(WRMC) in Medina, Ohio was completed, a special guest was given the opportunity to assist residents in laying the final bricks. WRMC Trustee Bill Stratton was invited to complete the facade along with the residents of the community. The image is an inspiring example and gives insight into the dedication and support of the memory care center by trustees and Masons alike. The ribbon cutting ceremony and open house took place on Sunday, July 28 and was attended by several trustees, masons, and community members.
Change to: For more information about URS, call toll-free 877-881-1623.
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BEACON
2655 W National Rd Springfield, OH 45504-3698 www.theohiobeacon.com
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A glimpse from the Past...
Below is an excerpt from the OMH Hillman Bulletin #22. Recently rediscovered within the castle, these newsletters were “Devoted to the Interests of Ohio Masonic Home Boys and Girls in the Armed Services of the U.S.A. and Allies.� The Hillman Bulletin was issued monthly between May, 1943 and June, 1947. It shared excerpts from letters of servicemen and women as well as news about the Home, and was sent to each of the OMH boys and girls who were serving at home and abroad. The staff at OMH will be rendering electronic versions of the Bulletins in order to preserve the originals. Eventually the goal is to make them available to the public for research purposes.
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