VOLUME 18, ISSUE 4
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BEACON Ohio A JOINT PUBLICATION OF THE GRAND LODGE OF OHIO AND THE OHIO MASONIC HOME
Kevin B. Todd Installed Grand Master of K
evin B. Todd was installed Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of Ohio on Saturday, October 15. The Grand Lodge officers for this new Masonic year also include James F. Easterling as Deputy Grand Master, Norman J. Mick as Senior Grand Warden, Steven E. Cokonougher as Junior Warden, Ronald L. Connelly as Grand Treasurer, C. Michael Watson as Grand Secretary, David L. Collins as Grand Chaplain, Robert C. Rill as Grand Orator, Douglas N. Kaylor as Grand Marshal, Eric R. Schau as Senior Grand Deacon, Michael T. Puskarich as Junior Grand Deacon, and Calvin E. Giusto as Grand Tyler. Kevin Bruce Todd was born on January 21, 1955 in Lakewood, Ohio to Harold W. (deceased) and Jeanette Todd. He was the youngest of six children and was raised on a farm outside of Footville, near Rock Creek, Ohio. He met Pamela Jane Davies at Kent State University in 1974, and they were married on July 15, 1978. Pam teaches third grade at Crestview Elementary School, in Columbiana, Ohio. Kevin and Pam are blessed with two wonderful children, a Continued on page 4
Trustees Travel to Assist in the Raising of Brother Stofac On September 29, 2011, nine Trustees of The Ohio Masonic Home travelled from all areas of Ohio to Springfield’s St. Andrews Lodge #619 to assist in the raising of Brother Thomas J. Stofac, Chief Executive Officer of The Ohio Masonic Home. The Trustees, along with Senior Grand Warden James Easterling, Jr; RWB Timothy Strawn, President of the Ohio Masonic Home Benevolent Endowment Fund; PDDGM Rodney Kovacs, and many current and Past District Deputy Grand Masters were part of nearly 100 brethren who witnessed an outstanding degree. Also attending were 16 residents of Springfield Masonic Community. Continued on page 3
In This Issue: Florida Luncheons with GM...............................4 Masonic Home Joins Facebook .........................6 Veterans Memorial Dedicated ...........................7 Memory Care Campaign .............................. 8-9 Serving as a Solomon .....................................12 GM Enters the Blogoshpere .............................13
Future
The
of Freemasonry is Up To You
By Kevin Todd, Grand Master
What a great honor it is to represent the Masons of Ohio as your Grand Master. I pledge that I will put forth the utmost effort to see that the interests of the Brethren are promoted and protected for the future. I will try to uphold the tradition of great Grand Masters that have come before me and hopefully, in some small way, provide an example for those that follow. I am a huge proponent of “individual responsibility.” As a one of the largest Grand Lodges in the world, we will be able to accomplish anything to which we dedicate our resources. But nothing happens in any group if the individuals that comprise it do not make it their personal mission to reach their own goals and those of the group. So it is with this dedication in mind that I am promoting the theme that the “Future of Freemasonry Is Up To You.” This message for a bright future needs to be carried to every Masonic District, every Masonic Lodge, and each member of our lodges. If we expect to see changes for the betterment of all, each of us will need to take the responsibility for seeing that it happens. That is not to say that every member must The 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.&A.M. of Ohio P.O. Box 629 Worthington, OH 43085-0629 614/885-5318 csimpson@freemason.com Kristen Hirschfeld Communications Manager The Ohio Masonic Home 2655 W. National Road Springfield, OH 45504-3698 937/525-3025 khirschfeld@ohiomasonichome.org
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come to every meeting or become a lodge officer or a district leader. But remember how you felt after your Entered Apprentice Degree? The whole Masonic world was opened in front of you and the possibilities were endless. This is as true today as it was then. Those opportunities have not disappeared, but perhaps we have. So take responsibility for the health of your family, the state of your lodge, the condition of the youth group your lodge sponsors or the other Masonic bodies to which you belong, and even the conditions in your local communities. The extent of your Freemasonry should not be just for the bumper sticker on your car, the ring on your finger, or the Square and Compass on your ball cap. Being a Mason is an honor, a privilege, and a duty. When you achieved the ultimate status of Master Mason, you were told that this is just a beginning. They meant it! You could be a Master Mason for thirty years and you are just getting started on this journey. This Masonic path really has no end, it just gets wider the further we travel down it.
Our great Masonic leaders did not start out as Masons and become the leaders of their day. They were Kevin B. Todd, leaders who Grand Master were also Masons. Just like them, as a Mason, you have been recognized by your lodge brothers as a person who possesses the criteria that we all admire. You must be a person of faith, integrity, intellect, dedication, and will. These are the very characteristics for which we value our famous brothers. It is doubtful that any of us will ever be another George Washington, but as Masons we are all cut from the same cloth. So if you are not already there, it is time to take responsibility for the world around you and do what it takes to really earn that ring on your finger. The Future of Freemasonry Is Up To You.
Grand Master Todd to Focus Charitable Efforts of Student Assistance Training Grand Master Kevin B. Todd has announced that the Masonic Model Student Assistance Program (MMSAP) will be his main charitable focus this year. He hopes to raise awareness among Masons and participation by schools as well as to increase financial support. The MMSAP is a three-day, intensive program that trains teams of school personnel to identify and intervene with at-risk students. This training is sponsored by the Grand Lodge of Ohio and provided at no cost to schools. The program was created in 1985 by Brothers Lawrence Newman and Thomas Stecher, who each has thirty plus years of experience in education. It was first brought to Ohio in 1996. Since that time hundreds of schools have been trained. The program is continually updated to ensure that the materials presented are as up-to-date as possible. More information is available on the Charity section of www.freemason.com.
Thanksgiving
By Tom Stofac, Chief Executive Officer of The Ohio Masonic Home
I
don’t know about you but Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. Good food, family, friends and football are certainly some of my favorite things. However, the best part of the holiday for me is being able to reflect on the people and things that have touched my life throughout the year and made a difference to me. This year I am blessed and thankful to call you my brothers and my friends. As many of you may know, I was raised a Master Mason on September 29, 2011. The experience was wonderful and awe inspiring. Clearly it will be a memory I will cherish forever. The history of the degree was very moving, and the ceremony was meaningful to me personally. Thank you to those who attended and to the entire fraternity for supporting me through this process. Very few times in my life have I been rendered speechless but I must admit this was one of those times where I was truly at a loss for words. In addition I am thankful for the many new friends I have come to know. The Ohio Masonic Home is such a wonderful organization and the support you have given to the Home is a testament to the good works and deeds you have accomplished over the past 120 years. The Home’s rich history and proud traditions are something I am very thankful for being a part of now and in the years to come.
On a personal note I have had many blessings to be thankful for this year. My oldest daughter was married this past August to a fine gentleman that I am pleased to have as a son-in-law. There are many more people and things I am grateful for this year but one of the most important is my health. It seems as we look around, we need each other now more than ever to assist in one another’s physical, fiscal, spiritual and mental health. I want you to know that The Ohio Masonic Home wants to be a part of your life in any way we can. We also want to ask that you consider being a partner with us in the capital campaigns at Western Reserve and Browning as we respond to the needs of our Brothers and the community who are afflicted with the brutal disease we call Alzheimer’s. As we progress into the holiday season and the end of the year, please consider the needs of our residents and the organization with
Thomas J. Stofac, CEO
your time, talent and treasure for together we can become the trusted resource to help each other age respectfully. May you have a very blessed holiday season.
Trustees Travel to Assist in the Raising of Brother Stofac - Continued from page 1 Presiding in the second half of the degree was Past Grand Master (1984) C. Rolland Lattanner, who recalled that in 1984 as Grand Master, he held the same station when he raised the then-CEO of The Ohio Masonic Home. The Trustees who took part were MWB Terry W. Posey; RWB Michael Puskarich (Chairman of the Board of Trustees); WB Dr. Ross Black, WB Richard Holcombe, WB Kermit Zimmerman; RWB Clarence Jack Hartzell; RWB Ronald Connelly; RWB William Stratton; and WB Steve Duncan. Brother Stofac was suitably impressed and for a short time was at a loss for words. He recovered quickly and thanked his friends and brethren for their attendance and support. ~MWB Terry W. Posey
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Buckeye
GM to Lead Florida
“
Grand Master Kevin Todd and several other Grand
Reunion”
Luncheon Dates & Locations: Please note change in the Tavares schedule.
Lodge officers will again be bringing a “Buckeye Reunion” to Florida in January. They will share news of Saturday, January 14 - Tavares Lake County Shrine Club - Noon the Grand Lodge and the new Masonic year. 424 North Duncan Rd. (Route 19) Tavares, FL 32778-3157 Please call the OMH Foundation at 1/888-248-2664 352/343-2582 to make reservations; do not write for reservations. All Host: Ill. Brother Alan Blevins, 33˚, 352/753-0716 reservations are to be made through the Foundation. (Please do not mail a reservation or “walk in”…. Monday, January 16 - Sarasota we need to speak with you to make certain we have Peridia Golf and Country Club - Noon the correct information regarding your reservation.) 4950 Peridia Blvd. East, Bradenton, FL 34203-4052 941/758-2582 Thanks to a subsidy of the meal cost by The Ohio Host: Right Worshipful Brother Ken Gavins, 941/925-4586 Masonic Home, the luncheon cost remains at $6 per person! Send checks payable to OMH Foundation, Tuesday, January 17 - Ft. Myers to: OMH Foundation, Five Masonic Dr., Springfield, Araba Shrine Center - Noon OH 45504-3658. Make notation in “Memo” section of (Note: Limited to 170 reservations) check: GM’s Luncheon and date for your reservation. 2010 Hanson St., Ft. Myers, FL 33901-7296 Reservations must be made by Friday, January 3. 239/334-2226 Contact the local hosts with any questions. Host: Right Worshipful Brother Dick Scobie, 419/277-2438
Kevin B. Todd Installed Grand Master of Ohio - Continued from page 1 son, Morgan (Washington Lodge #17) and daughter, Shannon. Morgan resides in Cincinnati, Ohio, and works as an Environmental Geologist. Shannon, an Elementary School Teacher, is married to Ryan Mercer and resides in Columbiana, Ohio. Shannon and Ryan have two sons, Riley and Colin.
Education & Occupation After graduating from Geneva High School, Geneva, Ohio, in 1972, Todd enrolled at Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics and graduated in 1974 with an Associates Degree in Aerospace Maintenance and obtained his FAA Aircraft Mechanics Licenses. He enrolled in the Aerospace Technology program at Kent State University where he received a Bachelors of Science Degree in 1977. Following graduation from KSU, he was employed by several different aerospace companies located on the East Coast. He returned to Ohio in 1989 taking a position as Senior Design Engineer with the Saint-Gobain Performance
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Plastics Corporation. He continues to hold that position and designs aircraft components, tools, and manufacturing processes for civilian and government aircraft projects. Todd has been involved with his local community as an adult leader in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, High School Band Boosters, Village Councilman, and a Session member of the New Waterford Presbyterian Church. He is an instrument rated private pilot with his aircraft based out of Salem Airport.
Masonic Affiliations Brother Todd was raised a Master Mason in Mantua Lodge #533 in the 25th District in 1989 and then became a member of Allen Lodge #276 in Columbiana, Ohio in 1990, where he progressed through the officer’s line to serve as the Worshipful Master in 1997. While serving as Lodge Secretary, he was appointed to serve as a District Deputy Grand Master in the 24th District in 2002 and 2003. MWB Jim S. Deyo appointed Brother Todd to serve the Brethren of the Grand
Lodge of Ohio as the Junior Grand Deacon in 2004. He progressed through the Grand Officers Line to be elected as Deputy Grand Master in 2010. At the conclusion of the 202nd Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, he was elected to serve his Ohio Brethren as Grand Master, being installed as Grand Master of Masons in Ohio, in Cleveland on October 15, 2011. Brother Todd is a 33º member of the Valley of Youngstown, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, and a member of Youngstown Chapter #93, Royal Arch Masons; Buechner Council #107, Royal & Select Masons; St. Johns Commandery #20, Knight Templars; Aladdin Shrine, Youngstown Shrine Club; Aut Mori Grotto; Masonic Motorcycle Club Chapter #3; and an honorary member of New Lisbon Lodge #65 and Proctorville Lodge #550. Pam and Kevin are both members of Miriam Chapter #278, Order of the Eastern Star in Youngstown.
North
Highlighting Our Services in the In northern Ohio we’ve made a home for two of our subsidiaries: Cornerstone Helping Hands, near Toledo, and Cornerstone Home Health Northeast, in Boardman. Both provide in-home companions to assist clients with a wide range of services. Whether a Mason needs someone to plan and prepare his meals, remind him to take medication or help with moving around the house, a caregiver is available. The tasks required by each client are matched up with an aide who is experienced in that area. Additional services such as light housekeeping, transportation assistance, and overseeing home maintenance needs are also offered. These options give clients the ability to remain independent and to keep their home safely maintained. An important feature of our care which sets us apart from the rest of the industry is that each person’s program will be specially tailored to
meet his or her personal needs. In addition, we have made our services available twenty-four hours a day in order to work around your schedule. If you require skilled nursing care Cornerstone Home Health Northeast is the route you want to take. In addition to in-home companions, they have a nursing staff capable of everything from post-surgery followup and therapy to medication instruction and administration. A few other services include IV infusions, injections, catheter insertion and tracheotomy care. An expert overthe-phone evaluation can have you on your way to receiving care in
little time at a reasonable cost. Our nurses are trained by physicians from a wound care clinic on how to perform exceptional in-home care for wounds. By far the best part is that everything is done by experts in the comfort and privacy of your own home, because we believe in allowing people to age respectfully wherever they call home. If you are interested in any of the services above or if you would like to find out what other services are available visit: www.cornerstonehelpinghands.org or www.cornerstonehealthcare.org Or toll free: 1-877-564-0210 Cornerstone Helping Hands 1-877-684-5710 Cornerstone Home Health
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Rounds
Making the
Access to lodges and various Masonic bodies is key to spreading the word of the I-CARE program. Since its inception over six years ago, I-CARE seeks to provide assistance to aging Masons, wives, widows and Eastern Star members by helping them plan for home care options and linking them to communitybased services and benefits.
Every year the I-CARE service coordinators travel to the Grand Events throughout the state along with many in the fraternity. The seven coordinators set up information booths which afford them the opportunity to reach out personally to those in attendance. Starting with Prince Hall Grand Lodge in August, followed by Eastern Star Grand Chapter
MAP AREA Northwest West Central Southwest Northeast Central Southeast South Central
in September and the Grand Chapter, Grand Council and Grand Commandery, culminating with Grand Lodge all in October, these events provide the I-CARE service coordinators the opportunity to meet new faces and renew old acquaintances. Referrals and invitations to make presentations at lodges across the state grow out of the relationships that are developed at these events. The spirit of cooperation between those lodges that have formed I-CARE committees and the service coordinators is unique. Their collective mission is to serve the senior members of the fraternity. If your lodge or District Association would like an I-CARE coordinator to speak about the program, please call the coordinator in your district. For more information you may visit the website at www.mssohio.org. TOLL FREE 800-706-1709 888-207-8472 800-706-1710 800-901-1431 866-453-8002 866-557-0671 888-884-8096
LOCAL CALL 419-779-0057 937-605-5475 513-623-6528 330-730-7718 614-572-3507 740-262-1974 740-270-9650
Ohio Masonic Home Joins Facebook Facebook is a free social networking website that connects millions of friends, families, and companies. It contains the tools for photo albums, messaging, and forums to post thoughts and comment on others’. The Ohio
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Masonic Home will participate in this community, and keep you informed of our latest news and events through daily postings. Any member can browse through photo albums, leave a comment, like us or share us with friends and family. Our goal is to
give everyone a better understanding of what defines us as The Ohio Masonic Home. Our page can be found at: https://www.facebook. com/#!/pages/The-Ohio-MasonicHome/183330278409420.
Dedicated
The Flying Flag Veteran’s Memorial R
esident Larry Yaw had a vision, a dream really, about creating a tribute to Veterans on the campus of Browning Masonic Community in Waterville. So, with the help of the other residents of the community, they raised the money for six flag poles and the six flags they needed to make the dream a reality. On Sunday, September 11, 2011 those six flags were raised by residents of Browning and their friends and families. President David Subleski, welcomed
everyone to the dedication. After the ceremony they moved on to the tent where there was great music, Old Fashioned Lemonade, hot dogs and ice cream. One man’s vision became a reality on the campus of Browning Masonic Community, with a little help from his friends and neighbors and the Masonic Community all working together.
George O. Braatz Named Executive Director of National Masonic Service Association The Masonic Service Association of North America (MSA) announced that George O. Braatz, Past Grand Master and Past Grand Secretary of Ohio, was selected out of a pool of twenty applicants to serve as the new Executive Secretary of the MSA. The MSA began a search for a new Executive Secretary in the fall of 2010 after Brother Richard Fletcher submitted his resignation. Announcement was made to all member jurisdictions of MSA, and a deadline of June 1, 2011 was set
for the acceptance of applications by the executive commissioners. “The Executive Commissioners of the MSA are extremely excited by this selection. They look forward to the continuing service of the MSA to all member jurisdictions and Masonry in general with the support of Brother Braatz as executive secretary,” explained Chairman William G. Roberts, PGM of Nevada. The MSA was formed in 1919 and is headquartered in Silver Spring, MD. It provides educational material,
statistical reports, Disaster Relief and administers a Hospital Visitation Program across North America. For more information about the MSA visit: www.msana.com.
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Memory Care Centers Campaign
GainingMomentum “Memory, All alone in the moonlight, I can smile at the old days, I was beautiful then, I remember the time I knew what happiness was, Let the memory live again.” Lyrics from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical Cats written by Trevor Nunn can stir a sentimental emotion in just about everyone of us, but what about a person with Alzheimer’s disease? What is their memory? If you have ever known someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia you know it can be a slow progressive illness that robs individuals of their ability to enjoy living an independent life. In addition, with virtually no hope for recovery, it creates a heavy burden on the caregiver who must watch their loved one cope with this disease. Browning Masonic Community and Western Reserve Masonic Community have long recognized
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the need to care for their residents who have memory issues, but never have had the proper facilities to do so. The worst part is both Browning and Western Reserve Masonic Communities have had to relocate (collectively) over fifty residents in a thirty-two month period. This was due to the fact that neither community had a dedicated and secure building in which to safely care for their residents stricken by Alzheimer’s. Since first being announced in the November/December 2010 edition of the Beacon, the memory care buildings at the Browning Masonic Community and the Western Reserve Masonic Community have gained momentum. These new additions will be a joint venture between the fraternity and the communities of Waterville and Medina.
Over the course of the past year much has been accomplished in the form of selecting an architect and developing plans and drawings that will eventually lead to the construction of a twentyfour bed building on each campus. In addition, over 150 volunteers have been assembled to establish 15 committees which have been tasked to raise nearly $7 million. Soon you will be hearing from these volunteers and staff to join in the drive to build these much needed facilities. In the end, the finished buildings and the accompanying memory care program will allow residents to better cope with this debilitating disease. The fraternity has always been proud of the work it has done on behalf of fellow
Western Reserve
Browning Masonic Community
Masons. Since the laying of the cornerstone in 1892 in Springfield, The Ohio Masonic Home has always had a reputation for Care, Concern and Compassion in the name of Ohio Freemasonry. The dementia care projects, which will soon be constructed at Browning Masonic Community and Western Reserve Masonic Community, will be no different. Each Memory Care Center will provide the level of care that each of its residents needs. Our goal, and our commitment, is to be the trusted resource to age respectfully. So when you are asked to support the campaign, please respond with a generous “Yes!” Together we can “Let the memory live again.”
Masonic Community
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Lodges
News from the
Matamoras Lodge #374 Reaches Out to Community With the nation’s continued tough economic conditions, the members of Matamoras Lodge #374, New Matamoras, Ohio, decided it was time to get back to good old Masonic principles by reaching out to their community. The Lodge has established a scholarship committee, which raised $3,300. The money will provide four scholarships. Two will be awarded to relatives of lodge members and two to graduates of the local high schools. The Lodge also created the Blizzard Box program, which provides local shut-ins, the elderly and handicapped with an emergency box of nonperishable food and other supplies for use during a winter storm or power outage. From left Bill Creighton and Worshipful Master Terry Pringle of Matamoras Lodge
Extraordinary Master Mason Degree to Be Held in Alexandria, VA
Grand Master Todd has announced that August 2012 will be Ohio month at the George Washington Masonic Memorial. To commemorate this he will grant special dispensation for one candidate from each of the 25 Masonic Districts in Ohio to be raised a Master Mason in the lodge room at the Memorial during an extraordinary conferral of the Master Mason degree. More details regarding this event will be released in the near future.
Three Generations of Masons in Harmony Lodge #8 Urbana Brother Jonathan Douglas Shirk was recently raised a Master Mason, which made him the third generation of his family to join Harmony Lodge #8, Urbana, Ohio. His grandfather, Clarence Shirk joined Harmony Lodge in 1983, and Jonathan’s father, Dan, joined in 1990. Past Grand Master C. Rolland Lattanner presided over Brother Shirk’s raising. He was assisted by members of Harmony Lodge and various other Lodges in the 9th District.
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From left: RWB Dan Shirk, Jonathon Shirk, MWB C. Rolland Lattanner and Clarence Shirk.
Memorial held to mark 110th Anniversary of McKinley Assassination Canton area Masons marked the 110th anniversary of the assassination of President and Brother William McKinley by holding a Masonic memorial service on the steps of the McKinley National Memorial. The service was jointly conducted by members of William McKinley Lodge and Niles McKinley Lodge. As a part of the memorial service, a number of brief historical accounts were shared regarding McKinley’s life as a
Civil War soldier, Freemason and statesman. At the conclusion of the service, Worshipful Masters Goutras and Nutter placed a wreath at the memorial.
Grand Master to Recognize Ohio’s Masonic Pilots The Grand Master has commissioned a limited quantity of lapel pins specifically for Masons who are or were pilots. This pin can only be obtained in person, directly from the Grand Master. There are only a few criteria for receiving one of these pins: 1. It must be obtained directly from the Grand Master at any event. 2. You must be a Master Mason. 3. The Brother receiving the pin must be a pilot or have been a pilot in the past. He qualifies even if he
Engineer. 2012 will make 40 years that I have been involved with aviation on many levels. I want to celebrate this great occupation and avocation along with my love of Freemasonry,” explained Grand Master Todd. is no longer current or if he was a military pilot and has not flown since leaving the military. Fixed wing or rotary wing does not matter. “I have a passion for aviation as an FAA Licensed Pilot and Aircraft Mechanic, and as an Aerospace
“If you are a Mason and an Aviator, please see me personally for one of these pins...while they last. If you offer me the hand of friendship and one of your aviation stories, I will be pleased to give you one of my Masonic Wings Pins in return.”
Brother to Brother Creator Receives P. Dean Gerber Award Brother Ronald Murphy, Harrison Lodge #219, Cadiz, Ohio, received the 2011 P. Dean Gerber Award at the 203rd annual communication of the Grand Lodge of Ohio. Brother Murphy is a prostate cancer survivor on a mission to help support his fellow Masons suffering from cancer through the Brother to Brother program. Brother to Brother is a support network of Freemasons who are cancer survivors and who are willing to share some brotherly love and an attentive ear with others who are newly diagnosed. Any Mason who is a cancer survivor or who is currently battling cancer may contact Brother Murphy at murphyrm@cox.net or 216/702-6785. FALL 2011
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Solomon
Serving as A
from the Springfield Masonic Community
also a great chance to get into your nyone who has participated in a character and ham it up a bit.” Masonic raising ceremony will tell Most recently, Rollie served as you that it is unforgettable. Solomon when he presided over The advancement from the degree the raising of Ohio Masonic of Fellowcraft to the third and Home’s Chief Executive Officer highest degree, Master Mason, and now Master Mason, Tom is the most significant step in the Stofac. The ceremony was fraternity. The rich pageantry and conducted at St. Andrew’s Lodge drama of the ceremony reflect its #619 in Springfield. tremendous importance. Few people have the Past Grand Master opportunity to preside C. Rolland Lattanner over the raising of an (1984) has participated organization’s CEO. For in more than one Rollie, it was actually his hundred raisings over second time. the past forty plus years. “In 1984, I was the “The ceremony is Grand Master of the State drawn from characters of Ohio,” Rollie recalled. and events found in “Someone phoned the Old Testament,” Past Grand Master and asked if I would Rollie explained. “In Rollie Lattanner preside over the raising for the raising ceremony Milford Fickenscher, the for the third degree, the then- current CEO. They probably main character – and the character thought it would be an honor to that I have the honor to play – have the Grand Master there, but I is King Solomon.” felt it was a great honor for me to be While the ceremony is a solemn invited. How many Grand Masters event rich with symbolic meaning, have the chance to raise The Ohio it also provides an outlet for the Masonic Home’s CEO? And I got to participants to exercise their raise two of them!” dramatic talents. Rollie and his wife, Joy, have “There’s a lot to remember both lived in their patio home at the for the person being raised and for Springfield Masonic Community all of the brethren conducting the for five years, and they take full ceremony,” Rollie said, “but it’s
advantage of the opportunities to stay active. Rollie was one of many members of the fraternity who worked at Nationwide Insurance before retiring as a manager in the Accounting department. “Many companies, including Nationwide, had teams available to conduct the raising ceremony,” Rollie said. “We would travel to lodges all over the state to perform.” While the Masonic communities are open to everyone, not just Masons and their spouses, many residents are active in the fraternity. Rollie has participated in quite a few raisings while living at Springfield, and counted nearly twenty residents at Tom Stofac’s raising. After nearly 50 years in the fraternity, Rollie remains excited about fellowship and the insights that it offers. Anytime the phone rings with a call from a lodge asking whether he would be willing to play the role of Solomon again, you can bet that Rollie responds with an enthusiastic “Yes!” For more information on Springfield Masonic Community and the Cardiac Recovery Program, call 888/290-2664 or visit us at www.springfieldmasoniccommunity.org.
Trustees, Grand Lodge officers, WM of St. Andrews #619 and staff members congratulate Brother Tom Stofac on becoming a Master Mason.
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Romanian
Representative Visits His Ohio Brethren
Brother Mihai Bugaru of Romania recently visited the Grand Lodge offices in Worthington and was able to visit the annual communications of the Grand York Rite bodies. Bugaru serves as the representative of the Grand Lodge of Ohio to the National Grand Lodge of Romania. “I would like to share fraternal greetings with all Ohio Masons and invite them to visit our lodges in Romania as they can,” explained Bugaru. “Our universal brotherhood has many great opportunities to share brotherly love in a world too often torn by strife.” Bugaru and his wife have two children, a daughter and a son. He has earned a PhD in Mechanical Sciences and one in Engineering Sciences, having studied in Romania and abroad. Bugaru owns his own security business which he operates with his son. Bugaru took his first steps along his Masonic journey in
Brother Bugaru stands before the front door of the Grand Lodge museum during his recent visit.
Axis Mundi Lodge #59, located in Sinaia, Romania. He later joined Demnitatea Romaneasca Lodge #103 in Bucharest and served as Worshipful Master in 2007. He subsequently joined the York Rite bodies in Ft. Myers, Florida in 2002 and was award the Knight York Cross of Honor in 2009. Freemasonry in Romania began in 1734 and continued to exist in that country as late as 1947, with a seven year cessation from 1937 to 1944. The post-World War II Communist government
outlawed Freemasonry and persecuted its members. The Romanian Revolution of 1989 ended the communist regime. The Grand Orient of Italy then chartered three lodges, which were able to form the National Grand Lodge of Romania in 1993. Several elderly Brothers, who had been Freemasons in Romania prior to the communist take over, participated in the restoration of the fraternity to that country. Ohio Freemasonry has taken active steps to support the development of Romanian Freemasonry through the establishment of Chapters, Councils and Commanderies of the York Rite. The National Grand Lodge has also received permission to use the ritual of the Grand Lodge of Ohio in those Romanian Lodges that desire to use it.
Grand Master of Ohio Enters the Blogosphere Grand Master Kevin B. Todd has announced that he is keeping a blog this year as Grand Master. Ohio Masons are encouraged to follow along with the Grand Master through his travels this year by visiting the blog at gmohio.blogspot.com. “Keeping a blog will serve as a regular chronicle of my activities
as Grand Master, but it will also provide a chance for each Ohio Mason to share those activities with me even if they are not able to be there in person,” explained Grand Master Todd. Grand Master Todd is the second Ohio Grand Master to keep a blog. Past Grand Master Terry W. Posey was the first to do so.
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Gift
FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE
The First
By Right Worshipful Brother Timothy B. Strawn, CAE, President, The OMH Benevolent Endowment Foundation
As you receive this Beacon, thoughts and plans are focusing on the holiday season which is upon us. And, of course, one topic closely linked to the holidays is gifts. While the holidays bring a special emphasis on gifts, here in the Foundation, gifts are always on our mind. Not necessarily the kind that we typically think of in December but rather the kind that arrive from so many of you on a regular, daily basis in our office…and for which we are always so grateful! It takes a lot of gifts to generate the support the Foundation provides to the Home for its operations every year. And, as you’ve heard by now, it’s going to take a lot of gifts to reach our $7 million goal for the 24-unit Memory Care Centers we are going to build at both Browning and Western Reserve Masonic Communities. By now, every brother in Ohio should have received a letter/appeal about this important project. Additional information about the project and Alzheimer’s is coming to you in a newsletter you will shortly receive. Information about this project has built over the last several months as we’ve been working
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with the 15 committees at the two campuses and those involved in oversight of the project to prepare for the actual solicitation of gifts. The time has arrived and a group of volunteers is assisting staff and campaign counsel in making individual requests for assistance from potential donors previously identified. And, as that letter/appeal indicated, we invite… we need…you to support this important campaign! In reflecting on the campaign and all the preparations we’ve made, I’m reminded of the first gift to the campaign which arrived early this year even before the campaign was formally announced. It came from a number of wives and widows of 33° Masons in the Valley of Youngstown and was sent in memory of Marilyn, the wife of one of those 33rds, Ill. Bro. Richard Roumfort. The Roumforts were residents of Western Reserve Masonic Community and Ill. Brother Roumfort still is. Organized and coordinated by Arlene Elliott, wife of RWB Phil Elliott, 33°, Deputy’s Representative for the Valley of Youngstown, it originated at last year’s 33rd’s Christmas party and provided in excess of $1,200, giving us a great start. And what a wonderful memorial gift to recognize Mrs. Roumfort! Because of the Roumforts’ affiliation with Western Reserve, this gift was dedicated to that campus. (Gifts can be given to
either campus or the campaign overall. Gifts that arrive with no designation, will be be considered gifts to the overall campaign.) As you consider your holiday gifts or individual year-end charitable giving, please consider a gift in support of these criticallyneeded Memory Care Centers. If you’ve seen the campaign video, you truly understand why we must establish these Centers. (If you haven’t seen the video and would like to or would like more information about the capital campaign, please call the Foundation office at: 888/2482664.) You won’t make a better gift this holiday season and you may be helping to create a facility which will someday serve you or a loved one in the fight against this dreaded disease! To our appendant bodies and their various clubs and organizations…please consider following the example of the ladies of the Valley of Youngstown and provide a gift in memory or in honor of someone you want to recognize in your group. May these gifts bring to you that inner glow of satisfaction and knowing you’ve done something special to help others at this holiday season. Happy Holidays to you and yours from all of us in the Foundation office! Best wishes for a blessed and prosperous 2012! For more information about how to make a gift, contact the Foundation toll free at 888/248-2664 or write to us at: Five Masonic Drive, Springfield, 45504-3658. Visit us at our web site: www.omh-bef.org.
Generosity
Thank You For Your
We offer our grateful appreciation to the estates, individuals, groups or other Masonic bodies who have supported The Ohio Masonic Home with gifts given between June 1 and August 31. $10,000 + Brister, Charles E. Brodbeck, Helen E. Brodbeck, Marvin E. Carl, Mark C. Dodderer, Frank E. Frank, Walter Gantner, Jacob G. Herrick, Elizabeth Laming, Russell C. Sturdivant, Webster Valley of Cincinnati, AASR Wilson, Henry R. & Sarah M. Zorn, Mary $5,000 - $9,999 Colburn, Frank R. Kelly, William H. Moss, George K. Schulze, Vivian H. $2,500 - $4,999 Davis, Orlando W. Oberle, Betty H. Seifert, Dorothy T. & Myron T. Sheeler, Howard M. $1,000 - $2,499 Arters, George D. & B.J. Brookville Lodge #596, F&AM Grand Commandery of Ohio, KT Logston, Tommy A. & Marlene McMakin Lodge #120, F&AM New England Lodge #4, F&AM Scioto Lodge #6, F&AM Tippecanoe Lodge #174, F&AM Valley of Cambridge, AASR Valley of Columbus, AASR Wooley, Clyde E. $500 - $999 22nd Masonic District Association Alpha Lodge #729, F&AM Ebenezer Lodge #33, F&AM Elyria Lodge #787, F&AM Hosler, Bessie V. Karth, Charles E. & Marjorie J. Kelly, Floyd Kreigh, Robert J. & Jean French Milford Lodge #54, F&AM Millennium Lodge #779, F&AM Moriah Lodge #105, F&AM Norwood Winton Carthage Lodge #576, F&AM Nova Caesarea Harmony Lodge #2, F&AM Paramuthia Lodge #25, F&AM Science Lodge #50, F&AM Shrive, Harold George Sylvania Pyramid Lodge #287, F&AM
Valley of Youngstown, AASR Venus Lodge #152, F&AM Wayfarer Lodge #789, F&AM White, Margaret P. & Lloyd E. Williams, Frank R. Xenia Lodge #49, F&AM Yellow Springs Lodge #421, F&AM $100 - $499 Albin, Paul F. & Carol A. Archer, Harry Wayne Arnold, Dan C. & Patricia Bainter, John Miller Bartlett Lodge #293, F&AM Bellville Lodge #376, F&AM Black, Ross R., II & Linda Blankenship, Steven L. Bridgeport Lodge #181, F&AM Butlerville Lodge #135, F&AM Calvin, Delo A. Capital City Lodge # 656, F&AM Celina Lodge #241, F&AM Chester Lodge #238, F&AM Clarington Lodge #597, F&AM Clermont Social Lodge #29, F&AM Connelly, Ronald L. & Elaine M. Creps, Michael R. Dalton Lodge #578, F&AM Dayton Lodge #147, F&AM Drake, Carla Duncan, Steven A. & Toni East Liberty Lodge #247, F&AM East Palestine Lodge #417, F&AM Eastern Star Lodge #55, F&AM Edenton Lodge #332, F&AM Ehlers, Arther & Ermille Englewood Lodge #743, F&AM Euclid Lodge #599, F&AM Fairborn Lodge #764, F&AM Farmersville Lodge #482, F&AM Feller, David Wayne & Bonnie J. Flat Rock Lodge #580, F&AM Forest City Lodge #388, F&AM Fostoria Lodge #288, F&AM Fouch, Edward L. & Carol Franklin Lodge #14, F&AM Garrett Wykoff Lodge #585, F&AM Gerard Lodge #428, F&AM Gettysburg Lodge #477, F&AM H.S. Kissell Lodge #674, F&AM Hanover Lodge #115, F&AM Harrisville Lodge #137, F&AM Hebron Lodge #116, F&AM Herbell, Thomas P. Hildbold, Richard L. Hingst, Carl & Marilyn Hoffner Lodge #253, F&AM Holcomb, J. Robert & Antoinette Huddleston, Clyde Ray, Sr. Ionic Lodge #438, F&AM
Irville Lodge #184, F&AM Johnson, Owen E., M.D. & Joyce Kempton, Isabel J. Krams, Donald A. & Sharon C. Kuhn, Johnny J. Lattanner, C. Rolland & Joy G. Leetonia Lodge #401, F&AM Lewandowski, Thomas Lincoln Lodge #693, F&AM Lockbourne Lodge #232, F&AM Lone Star Lodge #175, F&AM Losasso, Donald L. & Theda Manchester Lodge #317, F&AM Marion Lodge #70, F&AM Mason Lodge #678, F&AM Masonic Square Residents’ Council Mentor Lodge #772, F&AM Mid-Century Lodge #725, F&AM Miller, Charles David Morgan, Wayne N. Mowry, David Dee & Kathy New Harmony Lodge #435, F&AM New Holland Lodge #392, F&AM New Straitsville Lodge #484, F&AM Nichols, Junior A., U.S.A.F., Ret. & Ursaline J. Noble, Craig A. & Lisa S. Norwood Chapter 193, RAM Palapo, Erasmo Parker, Dale William Parker, James B., IV & Barbara Past Grand Master’s Wives Peebles Lodge #581, F&AM Phelps, Edgar R. Posey, Terry W. & Cheryl Puskarich, Michael T. & Judy Reisinger, LeRoy Robinson Locke Lodge #659, F&AM Sager Lodge #513, F&AM Sardinia Lodge #254, F&AM Shank, Harold & Josephine Sikorski, Randolph R. Springfield York Rite Association Stanford, Christopher J. Temperance Lodge #73, F&AM Trinity Lodge #710, F&AM Troy Chapter #256, OES University Lodge #631, F&AM Valley of Dayton, AASR Venger, Irving Benjamin Victory Chapter #210, RAM Wakeman Chapter #177, RAM Walsh, Patrick M. Waltz, Jeffrey P. William Farr Lodge #672, F&AM Yeatman-Mt. Washington Lodge #162, F&AM Youngblood, Bonnie & John H. Zimmerman, Kermit Vaughn & Susan FALL 2011
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BEACON A JOINT PUBLICATION OF THE GRAND LODGE OF OHIO AND THE OHIO MASONIC HOME
2655 W. National Road Springfield, Ohio 45504-3698 www.ohiomasonichome.org www.freemason.com
Service
Recognizing
As their Board of Trustee term
was established and we added and policy committee. He was also Cornerstone Home Health to ends, The Ohio Masonic Home Chairman of the Masonic Financial the family. In addition, Dick would like to recognize Illustrious Assistance Corporation board. maintained an active life in Brothers Richard M. Holcombe and Recently in addition the fraternity and at home, Dan C. Arnold for their dedication to his committee being a former stock car in serving on The Ohio Masonic obligations he was driver and having held the Home Board of Trustees. a part of the process title of Grand Commander Richard M. Holcombe, or Dick to choose the current of the Grand Commandery, as he is known to friends, was first CEO Tom Stofac. Knights Templar appointed in At home, he leads of Ohio. However, 2000. Throughout an interesting life even the above list of his time on the as well, restoring commendations would board he has been antique automobiles be incomplete without an advocate for and piloting among mentioning his jovial taking action, other hobbies. With Dan C. Arnold personality. having been such a full and engaging Fellow trustee Dan C. Arnold quoted as saying, existence, it is no wonder Dan was joined the board in 2009 bringing “You can’t stand chosen to join The Ohio Masonic a personable attitude and still and expect Home’s Board of Trustees. terrific work ethic. His Masonic to accomplish It has been a privilege to have accomplishments speak for much.” Truer two such honest, hard-working Richard M. Holcombe themselves, including several words couldn’t and distinguished Masons titles recommending a strong have been spoken. Within his years involved in the well-being of fraternal commitment. When he took The Oho Masonic Home. Their of service Western Reserve Masonic on his role as a trustee he became an Community and Cornerstone support as men and as Masons integral part of the board and held Home Health and Hospice were will be missed and we wish them a position on the strategic planning acquired, the I-CARE program the best.
Memory Care Campaign
Recently, all brethren in Ohio received an appeal letter, brochure and response envelope regarding the Memory Care Centers Capital Campaign. If you’ve already responded, thank you very much. If you haven’t yet, please consider….at this season of giving and thanksgiving….how you might be able to support this campaign with your own personal gift. We thank you for your consideration.