The Ohio
BEAC N Volume 27, Issue 2, Spring 2020
The Power of Brand: This is Ohio Freemasonry Page 4
Virtual Meetings Bring the Craft Together Page 5
#OMHTogether: Powering the Connection Page 8
Page XX
Faces of OMH Page 11
New Masonic Marketplace at The OMH Print Shop Page 12
A J O I N T P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E O H I O M A S O N I C H O M E A N D T H E G R A N D L O D G E O F O H I O
IN THIS ISSUE Letter from the CEO . . . . 2 Letter from the GM . . . . . 3 Grand Lodge News . . . . 4 The Ohio Masonic Home Foundation News. . . . . . . . 8 The Ohio Masonic Home Resource Center News . . . 10 Print Shop News . . . . . . 12 Springfield Masonic Community News . . . . . 13 Western Reserve Masonic Community News . . . . . 14 Browning Masonic Community News . . . . . 15 The Ohio Masonic Home Car Giveway . . . . . . . . . 16 The Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Ohio One Masonic Drive, Springfield, OH 45504 614-885-5318 or 800-292-6092 Douglas Kaylor, PGM Program Coordinator dkaylor@glohio.com The Ohio Masonic Home Marketing Department 2655 W. National Road Springfield, OH 45504 937-525-5609 OMHmarketing@ ohiomasonichome.org If you would like to receive the Ohio Beacon electronically, send an email with your request to OMHmarketing@ ohiomasonichome.org The Ohio Beacon is published quarterly. Please update your information via Grandview, or 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 lists.
Ready to Answer the Call Dear Brethren, “The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change. The leader adjusts the sails.” These are the words of John Maxwell and they articulate the qualities of leadership and innovation exemplified by The Ohio Masonic Home. For nearly a hundred and thirty years we’ve continuously adjusted our sails, preparing for any challenge that awaits. So when this COVID-19 pandemic hit, we were ready... ready to connect our community members with their families and loved ones and lessen the feelings of isolation and loneliness. Early investment in The Home’s infrastructure positioned the organization with the ability to provide state-of-the-art technology across the state. Through the build out of The Ohio Masonic Home Resource Center, a resource unlike any other aging services provider, we were ready to answer the call of our Brethren, their wives and widows living at home and in distress. The connection to a friendly voice who could act on a specific need, or to simply be a listening ear to instill calm and confidence. And we were ready as we are blessed with thousands of volunteers, employees, vendors and donors, who were lined up and ready to help keep each other safe. Everyone working together, acting quickly and concisely, knowing that waiting to do the right thing just wasn’t an option. In this issue of the Beacon, as you read articles about overcoming the pandemic, about the incredible stories of connectedness, I would ask you to consider what role you play in being part of our collective success. If you are already serving the Home in some capacity, thank you! If you interested but unsure, simply reach out to an Ohio Masonic Home employee, Trustee, Ambassador or volunteer and we will share the many ways in which you can advocate, volunteer or financially support The Home and Foundation. In all cases, I would ask that you check-out theomhfoundation.org/connect to learn about the #OMHTogether – Powering The Connection campaign and the work that is happening to keep our community members and clients safe, healthy and connected. In closing, I want you all to know that we are also ready, when Ohio’s stay-at-home order is lifted, to see you all in-person and express just how grateful we are for your support of our Ohio Masonic Home. Fraternally, Brother Scott Buchanan CEO, The Ohio Masonic Home
ANNUAL EVENT CHANGES Home Day 2020 has been cancelled in an effort to keep our community members and staff safe. Please stay connected with our Ohio Masonic Home on Facebook (@theohiomasonichome) and at www.ohiomasonichome.org.
The Ohio Masonic Home Foundation Golf Classic presented by US Bank has been rescheduled for October 12, 2020.
Values of Freemasonry Greetings Brethren and Friends all…This is another Great Day for Freemasonry! “I believe while the Values of Freemasonry never change, our ways of embodying and sharing them are constantly being adapted and shaped for the world and time in which we live.” For those who attended one of the Deputy Grand Master Roll Out meetings last August, you heard me open with this vision statement. Little did I realize at the time just how pertinent it would become today. We have been challenged to live with new rules and limitations never imagined. We are social people, especially as we enjoy our fraternal groups. Our organization is based on social interaction; a smile, handshake, a pat on the back, a hug, fellowship, sharing good counsel, and the list goes on. We adapted, within our limitations, to begin virtual meetings. It was so exciting to see how we worked so hard to find ways to get together, even if only on a computer screen. To see each other, see the smile and hear the voice from our friends and brethren. It has closed the gap for some of us, but not all. Thank you for the efforts and expertise to those who have helped provide these tools to enable these meetings to occur (for those that can, reach out to help those of us that still cannot tie into this technology). Have you received a phone call or letter from your Lodge during this time of duress? I am fortunate to have received a couple calls from members of Lodges and bodies I belong to. I can’t tell you how it makes my day when I receive a call from a brother just to see how I am doing. We talk a few minutes, and when done, return to our daily tasks. I want to thank those who are making those calls all around the state. I’m sure you are making a difference in the lives of our brethren. You don’t know how good that felt for me, in those few minutes, to relax and talk with a friend who cared enough to call. Take a few minutes and call on your brethren.
reach our membership, i.e., email, phone calls, newsletters, social media. We would all be well informed and “in the know” about what is going on in your Lodges and Ohio Freemasonry. Secondly, with improved communication channels, we can quickly share urgent information with each other. PLEASE take a few minutes to update your Grandview membership account. It’s 3 easy steps to enable me to better connect with you: 1. www.freemason.com 2. Scroll down to select the Member Portal button (on left side). Don’t scroll too fast and miss my picture on the webpage. 3. You’re now in Grandview, select “My Profile” button and UPDATE YOUR INFO. We are in for more changes as society adapts over the next few months, but our lives will never be the same. Our Masonic schedules have been drastically impacted but we will adapt. I look forward to celebrating as we reopen our Lodge buildings. Watch for calendar updates via email, flyers, blogs, posts, mailings, calls, so you don’t miss rescheduled events. Most of all, take a minute as you enjoy the Spring and Summer seasons to give thanks for our many blessings each day. Live Simply, Love Generously, Care Deeply and Speak Kindly. Keith W. Newton, Grand Master
Lately I have been thinking how important Communicate-Communicate-Communicate is today more than ever. One, today we are constantly being blasted by the media with the latest information about COVID-19. Hearing these reports over and over again, keeps us current on the latest conditions of the situation. Imagine if we applied the same principle to Freemasonry. Use every means of communication to
Find the Tablet
Congratulations to Charles Douglas Winemiller of Grove City Lodge #689 in Grove City, Ohio, the winner of last edition’s Find the Bullseye search! There were 4 Bullseyes in the last edition. In this edition, we get creative with ways to stay connected through the pandemic, especially with the aid of technology. Search through this entire edition and count how many times you find the Tablet graphic to the right (do not count the example graphic).
Submit the correct answer along with your contact information (name/address/phone) and Lodge affiliation to Ohio Masonic Home, ATTN: OMH Marketing, 2655 W. National Rd., Springfield, Ohio 45504 or via email at OMHmarketing@ohiomasonichome.org by June 12, 2020, and be entered to win a prize, courtesy of the Ohio Masonic Home Print Shop! (Your participation serves as permission to include your name and Lodge affiliation in the next edition of the Beacon.) SPRING 2020 3
The Grand Lodge of Ohio
The Power of Brand: This is Ohio Freemasonry We all know famous brands: Apple with the bite that appears on all iPhones, Microsoft Windows with the four colored panes, Google with its minimalist simplicity, or Starbucks green and the mermaid. So what about Freemasonry? What exactly is our Brand? First, you might say, the square and compasses. It has been used around the world for three hundred years. But the next question is how do we make it our own? The Grand Lodge came up the image of the Square and Compasses over an outline of the State of Ohio. To this we added the campaign slogan, “Not Just a Man. A Mason.” This slogan was developed by the Scottish Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, and today it is being used around the world in several languages. All three elements work together to tell the world where we are, who we are, and what makes us special. We wanted to show the world that Freemasons, and especially Ohio Masons, are good men from all walks of life, all ages, and backgrounds. We started with the campaign, This is Ohio Freemasonry, and
we picked five Ohio Masons to represent us. This is Ohio Freemasonry identifies a real Ohio Mason. It tells who he is, what he does, what makes him special, and includes the campaign slogan, the Square and Compass, and the Ohio Masonic logo. The Grand Lodge has continued this campaign to show the world real Masons by introducing a different Masons every Monday on Facebook. “Mason Mondays” has become a staple of the Grand Lodge Facebook page, and we invite any Mason to submit his picture, basic information, and volunteer for Mason Mondays. Right Worshipful Brother Jim Hieb manages the Mason Monday program, and he is always looking for new faces.
If you would like to volunteer, submit your name, contact information, and a photo to ohiolodgelife@freemason.com.
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The Grand Lodge of Ohio
Masonic Youth Day MMSAP helping Masonic Youth Groups
For many years now, we have asked Ohio Masons to donate generously to the Masonic Model Student Assistance Program with the goal of helping students, teachers, and school employees in our public schools deal with societal problems related to violence, drug abuse, bullying, and just about anything that endangers our young people. We know that MMSAP saves lives. It has always been a gift by the Masons to their communities. But what about our own people? On March 7th, the MMSAP conducted a special youth leadership training session for 285 DeMolay, Rainbow, and Job’s Daughters leaders. There were 160 youth and 125 adult leaders in attendance. The session was sponsored by the Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation, and Aladdin Shrine stepped up to offer their facility in Grove City and to provide lunch for the attendees. RWB Tim Larimore organized the day, and trainers Scott Heydt and Amanda Wheeler flew in from Philadelphia to help the participants learn about empathy, compassion, and relationships. During the day, they broke into 17 groups to work on projects and develop skills to take back to their Chapters, Assemblies, and Bethels. It was an amazing day. Kelly Raines, wife of PGM Jess Raines, is the MMSAP district coordinator for the 18th Masonic District, and she attended Masonic Youth Day. She commented about the young people and adults in attendance: [They] had a great day of hands on activities and meaningful conversations about compassion, empathy, and relationships. As with other MMSAP programs I’ve observed, I was touched and inspired by the amazing dialogue and interactions I witnessed. It was such a pleasure to be with this fantastic group! Leaders of the three youth groups all agreed that this program should not be a one-time event. Plans are therefore already underway to hold another Masonic Youth Day at Aladdin Shrine in March 2021. If you have a child or grandchild in the eleven to twenty age range, please encourage them to look for a local DeMolay Chapter, Job’s Daughters Bethel, or Rainbow Assembly. You can help promote MMSAP by sharing information with your local school systems and by donating to the Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation.
Virtual Meetings Bring the Craft Together
The Brethren of the Grand Lodge of Ohio have been meeting like crazy while sheltering in place and staying home. Using a variety of software applications like Zoom, Skype, WebEx, GotoMeeting, and FaceTime to name a few, Masons began meeting for informal fellowship activities, educational presentations, and even to share a toast to the Craft. More recently, Grand Master Newton has given Lodges permission to hold virtual stated meetings if they follow certain guidelines to preserve the privacy of the meeting. Not everyone knows how to hold a virtual meeting, so Brothers like RWB Alexander Herbert, District Deputy Grand Master of the 21st Masonic District, began offering instruction so that Lodges and Brethren could hold their own meetings.
Even the Grand Lodge Officers have been meeting on a regular basis to review the current health emergency and plan for the gradual reopening of Ohio’s 450 Masonic Lodges and 25 Districts. Using the application Zoom, all twelve are able to hold a meeting, see each other, discuss events, and meet very much like they would if they were sitting around the table. Since Grand Master Newton issued a new dispensation to allow virtual Lodge meetings, reports from the field have been positive. Several Lodge secretaries report having a larger attendance at their virtual meeting than they were having at their regular in-person meetings. Two secretaries reported that they had members who now live out of state attending their virtual meetings, something that could not have happened before. Thus, even in the middle of an emergency, there are positive things happening. Each Lodge is free to hold virtual meetings, but it is not required to do so. Check with your Lodge secretary to see what your Lodge’s plans are. With today’s software, it is really very easy and safe to participate. Who said you can’t teach an old Masons new tricks? SPRING 2020
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The Grand Lodge of Ohio
Deputy Grand Master sets Rollout Schedule for Summer 2020 Right Worshipful Brother Richard A. Dickerscheid, Deputy Grand Master, has announced his schedule of rollout programs for the summer.
It is one of the Deputy Grand Master’s duties to make plans for the next Masonic year while serving and supporting the current Grand Master. By so doing, the Grand Lodge enjoys continuity in policies, procedures, and plans from one year to the next. RWB Dickerscheid and his lady, Teri, have consulted with the Grand Lodge officers, District Deputies, Masters and Wardens, and members and their families in putting together a program for 2021. RWB Rich and Teri Right Worshipful Brother Dickerscheid is a Past Master of College Hill-Harry S. Johnson Dickerscheid Lodge No. 641 in the 1st Masonic District and Cincinnati. He served as District President and District Deputy Grand Master before being appointed to the Grand Lodge progressive line. Rich is a manager for Dsuban Spring Service where his wife Teri and brother-in-law Tony (also a Mason) own the business started by their father. All rollouts begin at 7:00 pm, and the host lodges have agreed to provide light refreshments. All members and their ladies are invited and all Lodge officers are especially encouraged to attend. Date 7/20/2020 7/22/2020 7/23/2020 7/28/2020 7/29/2020 7/30/2020 8/4/2020 8/5/2020 8/6/2020 8/11/2020 8/12/2020 8/13/2020 8/14/2020
Lodge Milford Lodge #54 Scioto Lodge #6 Paramuthia Lodge #25 Huber Heights Lodge #777 University Lodge #631 Guernsey Lodge #66 Lima Lodge #205 Tiffin Lodge #77 Rubicon Lodge #237 Mansfield Lodge #35 Quarry Lodge #382 Canton Lodge #60 Western Reserve Lodge #507
Address 32 Water St., Milford, Ohio 45150 57 E. Main St., Chillicothe, Ohio 45601 12 West Carpenter Street Athens, Ohio 45701 7778 Wildcat Rd., Huber Heights, Ohio 45424 2436 West Dublin Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43235 730 Wheeling Ave., Cambridge, Ohio 43725 2165 North Cole Street Lima, Ohio 45801 179 S Washington Street Tiffin, Ohio 44883 8883 Browning Drive Waterville, Ohio 43566 1250 Middle Bellville Road, Mansfield, Ohio 44904 366 Eastland Road Berea Ohio, 44017 836 N. Market Ave., Canton, Ohio 44702 216 Main Street West Farmington, Ohio 44491
Making Connections Today The coronavirus pandemic has shown us how important it is to be able to communicate quickly and effectively in difficult times. Today, the most efficient means of communications is email and text messaging. The Grand Lodge would like to ask each of its members to provide us with their email address and phone numbers.The Grand Lodge has good mailing addresses to send the Beacon and other pieces of mail, but we cannot reach a majority by email or texts to cell phones. You can update your information in several ways: Call or email your Lodge secretary and tell him your email address, mobile phone number, and verify your home address and land line phone. Update your own record on the Member Portal. ¾ Visit Freemason.com ¾ Scroll down to select the Member Portal Button (on the left side) ¾ Click Member Registration in the upper right corner of the page ¾ Fill out the form (You will need your member number from your dues card) ¾ When you see the blue boxes on your Portal page, pick Member Profile and update your contact information Email your name, member number, and cell phone number to ohiolodgelife@freemason.com and someone from the Grand Lodge will update your record. By sharing your email address, you help the Grand Lodge and Grand Master reach out directly to all our members. Think about the cost of sending a letter. Multiply that by 70,000 members! That is a lot of money, most of which could be saved if the Grand Master could send an email to his Brethren. He thanks the Brethren for sharing this information to help us do better job of serving all.
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Many Lodges and members have shared stories during the past few weeks. Many of these examples of kindness, caring, giving, and sharing can be found on the Grand Lodge Facebook page. Bro. Joe Phoenix (Harding-Concordia Lodge #345) donates PPE supplies across the country A member of Harding-Concordia Lodge #345, Joe now lives in Houston, Texas and has managed health, safety, and environment for various companies over the years. In this time, he accumulated a supply of personal protective equipment (PPE). After speaking with a family connection that is a nurse in Los Angeles, California, he learned about the desperate need for PPE supplies in the medical community as many healthcare practitioners need to use masks and gloves far longer than their normal protocols specify. To help protect those working to care for the rest of us during this pandemic, Joe donated his supply of N95 masks and surgical gloves to the nurses. “I urge all brethren to inventory their supplies and see if they have anything that could be used by the brave people on the front line treating those with the COVID-19 disease. Please find a way to get these supplies to those who desperately need them. Do not wait, you may save a life! Thank you, be safe, and God Bless!”
Cincinnati-Lafayette Lodge #483 & their Coronavirus Assistance Program The Worshipful Master and the Lafayette Escadrille (Lodge members under the age of 50) are offering their assistance for those that find themselves short on food and supplies, are unable to get out on their own, or don’t have family to shop for them. The Brothers are doing the shopping for those who can’t by purchasing $50.00 worth of groceries per person per week. If a person is unable to pay, they may wait until some future date when it is less of a financial burden.
Aurora Lodge #48 observe their 200th Anniversary with a robust telephone call system To celebrate their 200th anniversary, Aurora Lodge #48 is doubling down on making telephone calls to their Lodge brothers and their families, neighbors, and community members to see how things are going, and to see if help of any kind is needed. “At Aurora, we can think of no better way to mark the observance than to be there and to reach out for all our Masonic brothers and their families, as well as our community, during this time of uncertainty and confusion,” said Bro. Mike Payton. “We believe it to be not only a Masonic virtue but also a simple act of caring for our fellow man.”
An Invitation to Join Us on Facebook! During this time of social distancing and sheltering at home, we need to build and maintain our sense of community and purpose. One of the best strategies to do this for the Grand Lodge is to encourage you to follow or like our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/grandlodgeohio The Grand Lodge currently has about 10,000 followers, and we use Facebook as a fast and effective way to communicate important information. Grand Master Newton posted two recent edicts related to meetings on Facebook, and those posts were then shared to other pages, reaching even more people. Social Media (including Facebook) provides a cost-effective way to reach our members and those who are interested in Freemasonry. Where we send emails to members, we reach spouses and Masons from other jurisdictions through Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. SPRING 2020
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The Grand Lodge of Ohio
Ohio Masons “Step Into the Light” During a National Crisis
Becoming an Ohio Freemason means upholding the values of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth through actions large and small. In response to the national pandemic of the Coronavirus, our brotherhood has put their commitment to caring for their communities across the state of Ohio and the country front and center. Here are three examples of how Lodges and Masons are Stepping Into the Light, a nod to MWB Newton’s theme for 2020.
The Ohio Masonic Home Foundation
First Annual Rose Society Ball On February 7, supporters of The Ohio Masonic Home participated in the first Rose Society Weekend. Upon arrival at the charming Mills Park Hotel, supporters were greeted with a quartet band and specialty drink. After dinner, they were transported to The Ohio Masonic Home where they were joined by community members to enjoy dessert and beverages while watching a magic show by comedian magician, Michael Kent. Saturday’s activities included private tours by Jack Hudson, Lieutenant General, United States Air Force (retired), and Richard Reynolds, Lieutenant General, United States Air Force (retired), of the National Museum of the United States Air Force. On February 8, the Rose Society weekend supporters were joined by others for the inaugural Rose Society Ball – Winter Masquerade at the Mills Park Hotel in Yellow Springs. Hosted by US Bank and The Ohio Masonic Home Foundation, the Rose Society Weekend and Ball raised thousands to benefit the assisted living community members at the Springfield Masonic Community. The attendees donned masks and danced the night away. We are very touched by the generosity displayed for this event and are very thankful for the support we have received. We wish to thank all sponsors, especially our Naming Sponsor – US Bank; Presenting Sponsors – BrandMETTLE, Greystone and Remedi SeniorCare; Sponsor – Fazio Color Shop; and Tour Sponsor – Cleveland Chapter 23 of the National Sojourners. Plan now to attend the 2nd annual Rose Society Ball on August 14, 2021 at the Great Southern Hotel in Columbus, Ohio.
#OMHTogether – Powering the Connection The recent COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges that have changed the way we live our lives and the way we communicate with our loved ones. In this time we have seen the power of virtual communication as it connects people who are otherwise separated by distance. The Ohio Masonic Home and Foundation are powering the connection by putting tablets in the hands of hundreds of community members who are otherwise disconnected during this challenging time. Your participation will help power the connection between a husband and wife who are living apart because of health concerns. You will give children an opportunity to look their parents in the eyes and tell them they love them. It is our goal to raise $150,000 in order to ensure every community member feels loved and connected. To learn how you can support this power of connection, please visit theomhfoundation.org/connect. Your support ensures community members, families, and loved ones stay connected.
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The Ohio Masonic Home Foundation
Circle of Roses
The Ohio Masonic Home Foundation would like to recognize the following individuals, Masonic bodies, foundations, businesses and organizations for their support between January 1 and March 31, 2020. The individuals listed, along with many other donors at the $100+ level, are members of the CIRCLE OF ROSES. You too can join the Circle of Roses by making a minimum gift of $100 before December 31, 2020. Red Rose $10,000+ Charles E. Brister Trust Walter Frank Trust Tim & Kathy Godard Charles & Philomena Miller Trust Pink Rose $5,000-$9,999 Janet Campbell Frank & Marguerite Colburn Trust Ralph J. Gooding Trust Greystone Donald C. & B. Jane Huser Trust Medina Lodge #58, F&AM Susan Minor Dorothy T. & Myron T. Seifert Trust Kenneth R. Sterrett Trust Lavender Rose $2,500-$4,999 Orlando W. Davis Trust Fazio Color Shop, Inc. Bruce Graham Martin L. Hall Trust Bessie V. Hosler Trust Medina Chapter #266, OES Ohio Arts Council Remedi SeniorCare Howard M. Sheeler Trust Peach Rose $1,000-$2,499 Charles Briggs Scott & Katrina Buchanan Anonymous
Terry & Faye DeVassie Roger & Jane Edgington Raymond Girard Betty H. Oberle Trust Steve & Lori Petitjean Royal Chapter #29, OES Frank & Susan Schenck Anna L. Sine Trust John & Patricia Snyder The Cardinal Squares, Inc. Third Protestant Memorial Church Endowment Fund Martin & Bonita Trent
Somerset Lodge #76, F&AM David & Joyce Subleski Anonymous Valley of Dayton, AASR Venus Lodge #152, F&AM Barry & Becky Vincent Wayfarer Lodge #789, F&AM JoAnn Whitacre Estate Robert E. White Estate William H. Hoover Lodge #770, F&AM Randy & Debra Williams Frank R. Williams Trust
Orange Rose $500-$999 Douglas & Nanci Allen Alto Healthcare Staffing Anonymous Browning Masonic Resident Council Cleveland Chapter 23 of the National Sojourners Ronald & Elaine Connelly Sam & Shelly Ewing Robert J. Hanrahan III Barbara Henz Jefferson Lodge #90, F&AM JMM Architects Robert Lane Tom & Tracey Maloney David Melin New Carlisle Lodge #100, F&AM Ohio State Secretaries Association, F&AM Frank Petrie Harold G. Shrive Trust
Yellow Rose $250-$499 Anonymous Fred Badertscher Mildred Barth Beavercreek Lodge #753, F&AM Janice Billing David & Susan Black Douglas & Patsy Brenneman Kenneth O. & Faye R. Buckholtz Trust Cortland Lodge #529, F&AM Coventry-Akron Lodge #83, F&AM Ionic Lodge #438, F&AM Russell Klingler Melrose Lodge #671, F&AM Michael L. Finnell Lodge #711, F&AM H. Richard Neiswander Terry & Cheryl Posey Reynolds & Reynolds Employee Foundation Harry D. Waddell Trust
Thank You!
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Resource Center
Staying Connected through the Resource Center The Ohio Masonic Home Resource Center is staying connected through making phone calls to do well checks to our community members and clients. We are also utilizing technology and finding creative ways to stay socially connected! It’s true that the last few months have been difficult with the "stayat-home" orders. People miss their families and their friends. But one thing is for sure, WE have all been in this together. Everyone has felt it. Even medical providers went to telehealth options. There is genuine concern out there, but whether it’s through Skype, FaceTime, or simply answering a phone call, there are ways to stay connected during this time.
Call us at 877-881-1623. We can help.
Ohio Masonic Home Resource Center Widows’ Program The Resource Center assists Masonic and Eastern star widows and widowers through our Widow(ers) Program. Through this program we mail out a Bereavement Packet to any Mason or widow upon the death of their spouse. We enclose pamphlets tailored to your specific situation and follow up with a phone call. This is another way to express our Masonic Obligation of caring for our widows. If you have a recent widow/widower who may need the informational packet, please contact DeAnna Kinney at 740-262-1974 or DKinney@ ohiomasonichome.org.
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MVP Outreach During the Pandemic
The Masonic Volunteer Program continues to grow throughout the state with 13 Committees and 278 volunteers. New Committees have been formed in the 1st, 9th and 15th districts, with Harold Greenman, Phil Hoffman and Larry Lance as the respective chairmen. A shout out goes to all the volunteers who have been calling our Resource Center community clients during the quarantine. Your calls have been so important to the mental health and wellbeing of our folks. Volunteers were matched by their Resource Center liaison with clients in their local community and would call them periodically to check-in and
inquire as to any need. If a need was found, the volunteer would then contact the Resource Center liaison to coordinate the service using local resources, for example: prescription or grocery delivery, or home delivered meals. There has also been an increase in interest in the Masonic Volunteer Program as Lodges and chapters try to find ways to unite to identify and serve those in need. Thank you to all our volunteers for your support and service to the Resource Center. If you would like further information on MVP Committees, please contact DeAnna Kinney at 740-262-1974 or DKinney@ ohiomasonichome.org.
Recognizing our Lodges
The Ohio Masonic Home Resource Center would like to recognize the Society of Washington Lodges of Rome #535. What an honor to be one of an elite group of Lodges, recognized by the Grand Lodges of the United States, for your commitment to the George Washington Masonic National Memorial! Bill Malone has been the driving force coordinating this effort. Tex Watters is serving as the WM of the newly formed Lodge.
Rome Lodge #535 is a treasured friend to the Ohio Masonic Home Resource Center, exemplifying the heart of Masonry through their service to others. Rome #535 is located in Stout, Ohio, in Scioto County. Once the all clear is given for meetings to resume, several members of Rome #535 will be volunteers with the new District 7 MVP Committee.
Faces of OMH The Ohio Masonic Home Resource Center is partnering with The Ohio Masonic Home Foundation team to connect with community members, clients, volunteers, and donors regularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through these daily connections, the Faces of OMH was born. A way to tell the stories of those we serve as an organization. Community members, staff, clients, family members, and volunteers are the people who make up The Ohio Masonic Home and all of its subsidiaries. Without these individuals, The Ohio Masonic Home, would not be what it is today – a 55 and better premier lifestyle community delivering exceptional experiences that make those connected feel like family across the State of Ohio.
Resource Center
The Faces of The Ohio Masonic Home uphold our mission “We are the living expression of our Masonic Values – We serve as the trusted partner to help people age respectfully.” They are crucial to the success and the dayto-day operations of our organization and truly make up the backbone of our organization. These are the Faces of The Ohio Masonic Home, each with a different background, and a unique story to tell. To see more Faces of OMH, visit www.facesofomh.org or visit our Ohio Masonic Home Resource Center Facebook page.
Willis Dicken
Becky Cason
Retired Employee / MVP Resource Center
Recipient of Resource Center services
Even after 10 years working with The Ohio Masonic Home, retirement doesn’t stop Becky from continuing her community driven work. While working for OMH, Becky coordinated the Widows Program. She now works as a volunteer to help those benefited by the Resource Center.
Retired Logan, Ohio barber, Willis Dicken describes his experience with the Ohio Masonic Home as “First Class.” He encourages others to look into the Resource Center and learn more about the services it offers to communities across Ohio.
Paying it Forward
You may remember Resource Center client, Tommy Junkins, member of Weyer Lodge #541, who became a volunteer with the 23rd District MVP Committee. Sadly, Tommy has recently passed away but had made the request that his electric scooter and carrier be donated to a Resource Center client in need. With the help of two volunteers, Earl George and Bob Hadfield, from the 17th District MVP Committee, the scooter was picked up and delivered to Robert McDonald, of Belpre Lodge. With coordination from Resource Center Liaison, DeAnna Kinney and Tommy’s family, volunteers drove 2 hours each way to get the scooter, clean it up and make the delivery. Robert and his wife, Louise, were very happy to receive the scooter and plan to make use of it once the weather breaks and the quarantine is lifted. The Resource Center staff appreciate the donations by Tommy and the Junkins family, and the efforts of both volunteers. We would also like to acknowledge the tremendous support and service of three additional MVP Committee volunteers who recently passed away: Tom McCort, Kirkwood #446, Wayne Fulmer, Steubenville #45, and Peggy Headley (OES) who will be greatly missed by all who knew them.
If you would like more information on services or programs available through The Ohio Masonic Home, or resources available in your area, call us at 877-881-1623.
17th District MVP Committee volunteers, Earl George and Bob Hadfield, Robert and Louise McDonald.
We are here to help! Check out our new website and like us on Facebook to see more of our success stories! SPRING 2020
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Print Shop
New Masonic Marketplace at The OMH Print Shop The Ohio Masonic Home Print Shop will be celebrating its seventh anniversary in June, and we wanted to say a big THANK YOU to our customers, along with providing a little update during these crazy social times. Over the years in addition to our printing capabilities we have expanded into custom name badges, opened our doors to the general public and added crystal, acrylic and wood plaques/awards. The shop also offers custom direct-to-garment t-shirt printing, wide-format printing, vinyl banners, and even fullcolor personalized gift items. With the help of the internet, the shop has been pleased to partner with Brothers in more than 30 Masonic jurisdictions with our quality products and service while supporting our Ohio Masonic Home. Like many of you, our work load has recently decreased and while some staff are working from home we are open to continue supporting you. To protect our community members during the COVID-19 restrictions, our customers and community member visitors have been unable to enter the Springfield campus. We have used this time to perform some renovations to our space. Manager RWB Brian Knoll says, “We get Brothers all the time stopping in just to see ‘what we have’, and typically it’s nothing but showroom samples because we custom-make everything.” To fill that need, The OMH Print Shop is pleased to announce the creation of a true retail space: The Masonic Marketplace; with ready to purchase items for the many branches of our Masonic family tree. The Marketplace offers everything from Masonic T-Shirts, Embroidered Polos, Christmas Ornaments to Travel Mugs. When these restrictions are lifted, we encourage you to come for a visit and check out the new Masonic Marketplace. Along with the creation of the Marketplace, your Print Shop has also added some often requested products for the Fraternity. In our effort to be your convenient one-stop-shop we have also partnered with others to make some items readily available, such as Lapel pins and Masonic Bibles. • • • • •
Some of the new items we are excited to tell you about Ionic Pillar Crystal Award (pictured) • Masonic License Plate Frames Heirloom Masonic Bibles (pictured) • An expanded line of cast Personalized Leather Portfolios emblems to enhance your Custom Lapel Pins name badges Masonic Aprons (pictured)
Many of these items have also been added to our website: omhprintshop.com. The Print Shop website is also in the development phase of being relaunched later this year with a new look, items, and features. Later in the summer of 2020, will also bring the annual release in our series of one-year-only Commemorative Aprons. Stay tuned for even more news from the OMH Print Shop! Be sure to follow us on Facebook for all the latest updates. As a wholly owned subsidiary of The Ohio Masonic Home, the Print Shop strives to keep improving our value to the Fraternity with great products, prices and service. Remember we are here, online, and on Facebook. We look forward to helping you even more as all of our lives get back on track. Stay safe and healthy. When this is all over and you find yourself in the Springfield area, please stop by The Ohio Masonic Home and see our new Marketplace and visit with the staff of your Ohio Masonic Home Print Shop.
937.525.4939 | www.omhprintshop.com 12 SPRING 2020
A Virtual 100th Birthday Celebration
This is true for Faith Garrison, a community member at Springfield Masonic Community, a senior living community located in Springfield, Ohio. Through state executive orders, the community had to restrict guests and large group gatherings, but this didn’t stop the Springfield Masonic Community leadership team from coming up with an innovative and creative way to celebrate in style. Faith celebrated her 100th birthday on April 7th with all her friends and family, virtually. She was sung to by her grandchildren and blew out her candles all while her loved ones watched. She even went viral on the Springfield Masonic Community’s Facebook page with a sign asking for 100,000 shares, likes, and comments! Coming up with creative and innovative ways to make Faith’s birthday truly special is an example of a typical day for the leaders at Springfield Masonic Community. The tagline for the entire organization is “Where LIFEstyle sparks new beginnings.” It’s a very social and active campus where zip lining and hot air balloon rides excite. How would a campus who thrives on social connection keep that spark going through a pandemic? Easy. As soon as the pandemic started, Springfield Masonic Community, part of The Ohio Masonic Home, started passing out tablets pre-loaded with virtual communication platforms like Skype and FaceTime, campus-update information, COVID-19 reference materials, and telehealth programs to community members to prevent isolation and loneliness through a campaign called #OMHTogether – Powering the Connection.
Springfield Masonic Community
Imagine you’re getting ready to turn 100 and have a big birthday bash scheduled with all of your loved ones. Family is scheduled to come in from out of state and you’re getting ready to celebrate what less than 1% of the population will live to be. And then a global pandemic happens…
The #OMHTogether – Powering the Connection campaign has connected loved ones again so that they can wish each other good night and blow each other a kiss. Grandparents have been able to see their grandchildren and spend Easter Sunday with them virtually. Family members have been able to say their final goodbyes through technology where otherwise would’ve had to stay away and not get the chance. The Ohio Masonic Home, and all of its subsidiaries, has always prided itself on being innovative and providing the latest technology to those they serve. To learn more about the campaign, visit theomhfoundation.org/connect or call The Ohio Masonic Home Foundation at 1-888-248-2664.
SAVE THE DATE
As of Printing this Issue of The Beacon, the
Springfield Masonic Community's Annual Food Truck Rally is STILL ON!
August 22nd | 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Food Trucks | Entertainment | Beer Garden.
Staying Connected Through the Pandemic "Growing up, I’d experienced restrictions due to health concerns. I never thought, however, my children would have to live through it."
These are the words of Marilyn Wentz. She and her husband Bob are both community members at Western Reserve Masonic Community. Marilyn resides in an Independent Living apartment and Bob in our Memory Care area. Over the past three years they have seen each other every day with Marilyn joining her husband, of 66 years, for dinner every evening. In addition, Bob’s daughters would visit regularly, often several times a week. These visits, however, came to an abrupt end when the Coronavirus entered our lives, social distancing became a new norm and a Stay at Home order was invoked. Separated, and unable to see her husband, Mrs. Wentz worried, “Bob will forget me and our children.” Her knowing she could see him anytime was now replaced with feelings of isolation and fear. But your Ohio Masonic Home was prepared to meet the unique challenges the Stay-at-Home order presented. We’ve always been at the forefront of innovation and started putting technology in the hands of our community members’ years ago.
Western Browning Reserve Masonic Community
As a recipient of one of our electronic tablets, Marilyn would use hers for putting puzzles together, coloring/drawing and playing various games. Never would she had thought to use it for visiting her husband “virtually,” until now. Armed with this technology, the team at Western Reserve Masonic Community made it possible for Marilyn and Bob to (virtually) be together again. This ability to connect with her husband, during this unprecedented time, has positively impacted her life. As she puts it: “I don’t feel isolated, I know he’s there. I can now see him and I know he’s ok. Masons have been in my life since 1962, (the year Bob was raised a Master Mason) and they’re a great group of people. I feel good and proud I’m connected with the group here at Western Reserve Masonic Community. It’s a special time now! It’s fascinating, I never had a job where I had to rely on a computer/tablet to connect with people… it’s fascinating this is possible." Marilyn’s words remind us of our resiliency, the bond of Masonry, our ability to overcome and the hope of a bright future. And nothing compares to the joy and gratitude she experienced after a recent “virtual” visit with her husband. As their conversation came to a close she said to him, “I love you Bob”. To which he promptly responded, through a cupped hand, “I love you too.”
14 SPRING 2020
I’m more than fine, I’m at Browning.
Marlene moved into a new villa at Browning Masonic Community last fall. Her husband, Jim, was unable to move with her because of severe health issues. Marlene decided a villa was the right thing for her as her husband’s health continued to stabilize under the care of the capable hands at a nearby skilled nursing facility. This arrangement allowed Marlene the ability to be with Jim on a daily basis and establish a routine, bringing him fresh laundry, enjoying a bite to eat, and watching a show or two together before “tucking him in” for the night and returning to Browning.
a new tablet out of the box, charged, labeled, and ready to go with Skype capability to Marlene’s husband Jim at the skilled nursing facility. The nurse who met Molly teared up when she heard what OMH wanted to do for Jim and Marlene—offering them the chance to be together again as a family in the only way that COVID-19 would allow.
That evening, Jim had his first FaceTime call with his wife on a screen large enough for him to see. With kidneys still functioning and a slight perk in his attitude hearing his sweet Marlene, a new, non-verbal Jim would shake his hand and pull down his O2 cannula to smile at his bride. The next day, every family member was able to see and talk to Jim for over an hour-Marlene, all four children (all living in different states), and Jim’s sister. With declining health evident, Jim slipped out of consciousness as the soothing sound of his family conversing through the tablet filled his heart with joy. His eyes closed, resting, when the lifelong musician heard his signature song being played by one of his sons, Jim’s finger began tapping with the music. Marlene said it was like they were all there together, surrounding Jim.
"...we’ll still
love you just
as much when
you’re home in
As Jim’s condition worsened, he began to show signs of kidney failure, the coughing was taking a toll on his ability to function, and he was too weak to get out of bed. With no option available for dialysis, no hospice to assist in making sure he wasn’t alone, Marlene felt helpless. She was already distressed by the fact that she hadn’t been able to see the love of her life in nearly a month and now she feared he would die alone, with no family or friends to have the opportunity to say goodbye.
Heaven."
During this time, Molly Good from Browning and Mark Harris from the OMH Foundation had been in touch with Marlene on a daily basis. They understood the seriousness of the situation and realized what needed to be done. The Ohio Masonic Home had that week provided hundreds of tablets to its three campuses so community members could keep in personal contact with their loved ones during the quarantine. Working together, Browning employees, Gary Lay, Dave Subleski and Molly prepared and delivered
“I told him, ‘we all love you and miss you terribly,’” said Marlene, “but if you’re tired and want to go home, we’ll still love you just as much when you’re home in Heaven.” And with that, Jim was gone. They were there with him virtually when he took his last breath. Marlene shared that these are the last memories that she and her children will have with their father. No last hugs or kisses, certainly not the way they would have envisioned, but still together given the circumstances. The care and compassion that The Ohio Masonic Home represents, and made possible by all of you who support The Ohio Masonic Home Foundation. The day after Jim’s passing, when asked how she was doing, Marlene replied, “I’m more than fine, I’m at Browning.”
SPRING 2020
15
Browning Masonic Community
Then in early April, Jim was diagnosed with COVID-19. Marlene and Jim’s routine had been grossly altered.
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Congratulations Mitch Jones!
Mitch Jones won the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek as part of The Ohio Masonic Home's Perfect Attendance Program! The Perfect Attendance Program launched last April and we’ve had monthly and quarterly prize winners throughout the year all leading up to the grand prize – a brand new 2020 Subaru Crosstrek from Wagner Subaru, in Fairborn, Ohio.
The vehicle was delivered on April 21, 2020 by Brother Scott Buchanan, CEO, Sister Cara Schuster, Chief Clinical Officer, and Mr. Tom Maloney, COO/CFO of The Ohio Masonic Home on none other than Mitch’s birthday. Mitch works in dining at Browning Masonic Community and had a one in 572 chance in winning the new car. Congratulations Mitch!
