Freemason - January 2010

January 2010 • Volume LVII No. 1

Thomas K. Sturgeon R.W. Grand Master

The 21st Century Masonic Renaissance Begins TODAY! Details inside...

January 2010

Inside this Issue...

Editorial Board Chairman Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W.G.M. Jay W. Smith, R.W.D.G.M. Robert J. Bateman, R.W.S.G.W. Raymond T. Dietz, R.W.J.G.W. Jeffrey W. Coy, R.W.G.T. Mark A. Haines, R.W.G.S.

EDITORIAL STAFF Tina L. Raybold - Production Coordinator Rich Johnson - Graphic Designer

The Pennsylvania Freemason® Vol. LVIi, JANUARY 2010, No. 1 ©2010 The R.W. Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Pennsylvania (Publication No. USPS 426-140) January 2010 Issue of The Pennsylvania Freemason® Published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022.

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Published by the Masonic Villages, owned and operated by the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania, as a means of soliciting the physical and financial support of the members, their families and the public in general. Periodical postage paid at Elizabethtown, PA and additional mailing offices.

We appreciate the many submissions we receive for consideration. We apologize, but due to space constraints we are not able to publish every submission we receive.

Grand Lodge News..........................................................................................3 Meet Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W. Grand Master of Masons in PA............3 2010 Calendar of Events............................................................................5 Your Grand Lodge Officers.......................................................................10 Newly-Appointed Floor Officers, District Deputy Grand Masters & Aides to the Grand Master..................................................................12 The 21st Century Masonic Renaissance, Defined...................................14 The Pennsylvania Freemason.......................................................................17 Book Review: Finding Treasure in “The Lost Symbol”............................17 Meet Bro. Leonard Apt, Founder of Pediatric Ophthalmology...............18 A Lasting Impression................................................................................19 District & Lodge News..................................................................................20 “It’s About Time!”....................................................................................20 The Masonic Library & Museum of Pennsylvania.....................................24 The New Masonic Temple from Concept to Dedication.........................24 The Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation...........................................26 The Masonic Villages....................................................................................28

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Statement of Ownership (Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United States Code) Jan. 1, 2010, The Pennsylvania Freemason®, published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Publishers: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Editor: Thomas K. Sturgeon.

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Thomas K. Sturgeon, Editor Postmaster: Send address changes to: The Pennsylvania Freemason®, c/o Masonic Village, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022-2199.

Thomas Sturgeon R.W. Grand Master Brethren:

275 years ago, a famous American from Philadelphia named Benjamin Franklin stood as I do today, having just taken the obligation of Grand Master of Pennsylvania Freemasonry. I would expect that he, like me, was enthusiastic and confident, but also wondering what the long-term future of our Craft would be.

Brethren, ladies, it is with great honor and anticipation that I make this declaration: “The 21st Century Masonic Renaissance begins today!”

It will be a Renaissance for us brothers and I hope, a new beginning for those now in the fraternity and those who would consider joining our ranks. There are many critical issues we need to address, and I am prepared to offer solutions for the greater good of the fraternity that I have been dedicated to for 45 years.

To better understand why I believe

change is necessary and how those changes should occur, you need to know how I envision my term in office, and what kind of Grand Master I will be. I believe that change is necessary, and I commit to you that I have the courage to initiate substantive and reasonable change while at the same time maintaining those same principles that have made us great.

Always remember this: If we do what we have always done – we will get what we have always gotten!

One of my dear friends, Kenton McElhattan, founder of Industrial Scientific Corporation and also a 33° Mason, wrote a book a few years ago titled, “Hurry Up Son!” In his book, this corporate giant wrote about change and the need to change stating, “The next generation must always be the greatest generation. If each new generation is not superior to the previous one, then mankind will regress.

Each new generation must re-fight the battles and bring new vitality to the ideals that their parents and grandparents cherish, or allow those ideals to decay. Knowing how to use the future requires an understanding of the past. We should learn from the mistakes of our ancestors.”

So, here is a brilliant gentleman and brother, in the twilight of his life... he

is now in his mid-80s... writing about the need to move past the status quo and introduce needed ideas, vitality and change to our missions, whatever they may be.

What does this advice mean to us as Masons in the first decade of the new century? We must emancipate ourselves from the status quo and recognize that to change nothing is to do nothing, and to do nothing is a guaranteed avenue of failure. It would be a failure to me, failure to each of you, and most importantly, failure to those brothers who have maintained Pennsylvania Freemasonry for the past 275+ years.

To best accomplish this goal, it is imperative that the leaders of this fraternity listen to ALL Masons – not only the most active ones.

Lodges with a small group of brothers controlling all aspects of the lodge must be willing to encourage new brothers into their inner circle and receive new ideas. How else can we propagate new ideas and regenerate the enthusiasm that is so vital to our strength as the oldest and largest fraternity in the world? If we wish to maintain that status, we must begin our work TODAY!

I obviously know that not everyone will agree with some of the changes I am encouraging. Instead, those brothers believe we should not change anything under the mantra, “we never did it that way before.”

Believe me; I understand the importance of Masonic traditions as much as the next brother.

However, no matter how much each and every one of us loves this great fraternity, we cannot overlook the need to conduct it as a business and also a fraternity that mirrors the times we live in. There are financial responsibilities to be considered concerning the cost of each lodge and of the Grand Lodge. For example, our expenses have risen dramatically and our revenues have equally decreased. We have become real estate poor and many lodges are struggling to keep their Temples and buildings from foreclosure. Part of the reason is that our dues and fees are not current with the rising economy, more than likely because we did not want to place another barrier to gaining new members and keeping current members. However, this cannot continue, and the solution lies either in raising dues substantially or in doing a much better job of bringing new members into our fraternity.

I will demonstrate that it is possible to preserve our rich history and heritage while also modernizing it within the 21st century culture and strengthening it for future generations. Social change is, and has always been, slow throughout the history of our society. However, change in Freemasonry must start sometime, and my fellow Freemasons, the change in Pennsylvania starts today!

In my professional career I have had tremendous responsibilities, both for the safety of the public and for those who have worked for me.

While I recognize the responsibilities of my new position and that the authority of the Grand Master is supreme, I commit to each of you that I will concentrate less of my energy on authority and more on leadership.

I intend to be a kind, thoughtful and caring Grand Master... being as democratic in decisions as possible while still recognizing my serious responsibilities.

In terms of attitude and humility, Bro. Gerald Ford, the 38th

The Pennsylvania Freemason • January 2010 • Vol. LVII • No. 1

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21st Century Renaissance Changes to Freemasonry

Members May Selectively Invite Good Men to Join President of the United States, frequently reminded people that he was a “Ford and not a Lincoln.” In my case, you should know that I am a Sturgeon and not a Shark!

Niccolo Machiavelli, in his book, “The Prince,” written in 1513, questioned “whether it be better to be loved than feared or feared than loved.” I believe my success will be somewhere in between. I fully recognize that Tom Sturgeon may not be loved by all Masons in Pennsylvania. Indeed, given the degree of change I am proposing, there will be those who will think my actions might be detrimental to the Craft. So, I don’t seek love. But through this time of change, I am hopeful to be respected.

Respected for acting solely for what is best for this fraternity... for showing respect for each brother who is a member… and, for remaining respectful of the responsibility to do what is right. And what is “right?” For me, what is right is what I truly believe, from the bottom of my heart, will be best for the fraternity and not for self.

Truthfully, if I did not have such a fondness for this fraternity, I would try to be popular and simply keep steering the ship in the same direction. When the Titanic set sail in 1912, the world thought it to be invincible. Some brothers think the same of our fraternity, but without the proper leadership this fraternity can also be vulnerable.

I assure you my plan is strong, well thought out, and I intend to be vigilant and wise when encountering challenges.

We will not always agree on the issues, but I assure each of you that all decisions that I make will be intended to make the fraternity more contemporary to the time in which we are living and also better positioned for future success. The good of this fraternity must transcend all personal thoughts, ideas or opinions.

Just a short time ago, I took an obligation on a Bible that has been part of Oakdale Lodge for 99 years. That Bible has been through a fire that totally gutted the previous lodge building in 1973 and a flood that placed seven feet of water in our new lodge building in 2004. Just as that Bible has endured, I obligate myself to each of you that I will have a similar commitment and endurance to always do what is right.

My brethren and friends, having stated my belief and my thoughtful desire to make appropriate, substantive and respectful changes, I will issue decisions and propose changes to the “Ahiman Rezon” to initiate the components of the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance, which are clearly outlined within this magazine. We have undertaken a very aggressive agenda that will make our Grand Lodge more contemporary with 2010 rather than 1910. I stand behind these changes and during the next three months, I will travel throughout the state to hold regional meetings of the membership, “Renaissance Visitations,” to further explain my vision and plans and to answer questions about this agenda.

In closing, let me say that I recognize that the higher the station of life that each of us achieve, the more severe will be the criticism that we will be subjected to. When that criticism comes my way, I will accept it because I truly believe that the changes I am making are necessary for the perpetual future of Pennsylvania Freemasonry.

When I was in high school, I spent three years on the varsity

wrestling team. I learned that when you are all alone on the mat in a gymnasium full of fans, you must take full responsibility for what goes well and what goes badly, and not blame others for your actions.

This remains a good lesson for me these many years later as I assume the office of Grand Master.

To accomplish this energetic and much-needed agenda, I need the help of each of you. It is not a one-man job. When Chuck Noll came to coach the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 70s and met with great success, he made the following statement: “It is not the super stars who win Super Bowls, but rather games are won by blocking and tackling.” As with a team of football players, if each Pennsylvania Mason does his small part, what we achieve together will be massive.

Abraham Lincoln stated, “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” My brothers, the time has come for all of us, in total unanimity, to sharpen our axes and get to work to rebuild this fraternity.

Pennsylvania Freemasons’ pride should not be based on the size and beauty of our magnificent Masonic Temple or the fact that we are the largest Masonic jurisdiction in the world. Rather, our pride should be based on what we do for those who need our help and the way each of us represents himself in the community in which he lives.

In the great city of Pittsburgh, two rivers come together to form a larger river. Likewise in Freemasonry, we need those who support the status quo and those who welcome change to come together to form a stronger and more unified fraternity.

My friends and fellow Freemasons, it is axiomatic that to do nothing and to perpetuate the status quo is like denying treatment to someone who is ill. The treatment for this fraternity in Pennsylvania begins today, at this very minute. I have the courage to change what we are and what we do, with my rock being my faith in God and country, and my enduring faith in this fraternity. With your help, faith and cooperation, there will be Masons meeting in this Commonwealth 100 years from now, and it will be in part due to the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance that we are embarking on today.

Respectfully & Fraternally,

Thomas K. Sturgeon R.W. Grand Master

Lodges Will Raise Funds to Support Our Masonic Villages

2010 Calendar of Events Date Jan. 9 Jan. 10 Jan. 11 Jan. 13 Jan. 14 Jan. 15 Jan. 16 Jan. 18 Jan. 19 Jan. 20 Jan. 21 Jan. 22 Jan. 25 Jan. 29 Feb. 2 Feb. 3 Feb. 10 Feb. 12 Feb. 13 Feb. 15 Feb. 16 Feb. 20-24 Feb. 26 Feb. 27 March 1 March 2 March 3 March 4 March 5 March 8 March 17-21 April 17 May 1 May 8 May 15 May 19 June 12 June 25 June 26 Aug. 7 Sept. 18 Sept. 25 Sept. 25 Oct. 16 Oct. 23 Oct. 30 Nov. 20 Dec. 1

Event Official Visit by Grand Master Tom Sturgeon to Oakdale Lodge No. 669 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 54, 37 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 26, 53 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 29, 31 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 24, 25 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 27, 52 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 47, 55 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 20, 41 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 1, 42 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 2, 3 Renaissance Visitation: Districts C, D Renaissance Visitation: Districts 6, 8 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 7, 60 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 16, 17 R.W. Junior Grand Warden Presentation Renaissance Visitation: Districts 30, 49 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 18, 21 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 19, 34 Adelphic Lodge No. 424 100th Anniversary Renaissance Visitation: Districts 13, 14 Renaissance Visitation: 15, 59 Conference of Grand Masters Masonic Congress Masonic Congress Renaissance Visitation: Districts 9, 10, 50 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 5, 36 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 46, 58 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 22, 33 Renaissance Visitation: Districts 35, 12, 45 Renaissance Visitation: Districts A, B Florida Masonic Reunions Good Samaritan Lodge No. 336 150th Anniversary Bluestone Lodge No. 338 150th Anniversary St. John’s Lodge No. 115 200th Anniversary Moosic Lodge No. 664 100th Anniversary Henry M. Phillips Lodge No. 337 150th Anniversary Thomson Lodge No. 340 150th Anniversary Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s 100th Anniversary Quarterly Communication & 100th Anniversary Banquet Factoryville Lodge No. 341 150th Anniversary Ephrata Lodge No. 665 100th Anniversary Autumn Day at Masonic Village Lodge No. 43 225th Anniversary Friendship Lodge No. 663 100th Anniversary Brownstown No. 666 100th Anniversary One Day Masonic Journey New D.D.G.M. Workshop Quarterly Communication

LOCATION Oakdale Community Center Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center Scottish Rite Cathedral - New Castle Uniontown Masonic Temple Meadville Masonic Center Kittanning Masonic Center Pittsburgh Masonic Center Greater Johnstown Lodge No. 538 York Masonic Center Harrisburg Consistory Tacony Masonic Temple Norristown Lodge No. 620 Scottish Rite Cathedral - Reading Towanda Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center Shindle Lodge No. 601 Lock Haven Mount Union Lodge No. 688 Jamestown Scranton Moscow Lodge No. 504 Washington, D.C. Elizabethtown Elizabethtown Bethlehem Springfield-Hanby Lodge No. 767 Milton Lodge No. 256 Coudersport Bloomsburg Equity Lodge No. 591 Gettysburg Halstead Philadelphia Monongahela Paoli Elizabethtown Elizabethtown Factoryville Ephrata Elizabethtown Lancaster Fawn Grove Hershey Thirteen Regional Locations Philadelphia

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The Pennsylvania Freemason • January 2010 • Vol. LVII • No. 1

21st Century Renaissance Changes to Freemasonry

3 Black Balls Are Now Required to Reject a Candidate

Thomas K. Sturgeon Bro. Thomas K. Sturgeon was installed Dec. 28, 2009, as R.W. Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.

Bro. Sturgeon, 66, the son of the late Bro. Wallace Leroy Sturgeon Sr., Oakdale Lodge No. 669, and Cora Mae Wilson, was born in Pittsburgh and grew up in Oakdale.

Bro. Sturgeon graduated from West Allegheny High School in 1961 and worked for Duquesne Light Company before pursuing a career in law enforcement. He was employed by the North Fayette Police Department from 1968-1994, rising through the ranks to become Chief of Police/Public Safety Director in 1976. During that period, he returned to school and graduated from the FBI National Academy’s 123rd session at Quantico, Va., in 1980. He earned his Associate’s Degree in Administration of Justice in 1982 from the Community College of Allegheny County, a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Elizabethtown College in 1995 and a Master of Science Degree in Police Management from Youngstown State University in 1997. In 1994, he was employed by the Allegheny County Police Department, becoming Superintendent in 1997. He served as President of the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police in 1997 and in 1998, was inducted into the Pennsylvania Police Hall of Fame. He was awarded the first annual Award of Excellence in the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association in 1998.

He served as the Regional Director for the eight Southwest Counties for the Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigation and Drug Control from 2002 until 2005. From 2005 until his retirement in December 2009, he held the position of Deputy Director of the Bureau of Investigations and Enforcement and Director of the Bureau of Casino Compliance for the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.

Bro. Sturgeon and his wife, Joan Sturgeon, live in Imperial, Pa. They have six children: Kimberly; Seth, a member of Oakdale Lodge No. 669; Maureen; Michael; Mark; and the late Michelle; and eight grandchildren. They are members of Crossroads United Methodist Church.

A golf enthusiast, Bro. Sturgeon enjoys every aspect of the game from hitting the links to golf club repair. American history is another one of his interests, although he doesn’t have the time to read as much as he would like.

Mrs. Sturgeon likes to read, paint and decorate. She is a willing “Masonic widow” and a supportive partner in service to the fraternity.

MASONIC RECORD Oakdale Lodge No. 669 Raised March 25, 1965 Worshipful Master, 1969

47th Masonic District District Deputy Grand Master, 1983-1992

Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania R.W. Deputy Grand Master, 2008-2009 R.W. Senior Grand Warden, 2006-2007 R.W. Junior Grand Warden, 2004-2005 Committee on Masonic Homes, 2004-present Committee on Finance, 1998-1999

Ancient accepted scottish rite Valley of Pittsburgh, AASR - Commander-in-Chief, 1988-1989 Honorary Member of Supreme Council, 33°, 1988 Active Member of the Supreme Council, 1999

york rite Zerubbabel-Duquesne Royal Arch Chapter No. 162 Washington Council No. 1, Royal and Select Master Masons Duquesne Commandery No. 72 Red Cross of Constantine

shrine Syria Shrine Provost Guard Shrine Club South West Hills Caravan Royal Order of Jesters Court No. 2 - Director, 2001-2002

Other Masonic Affiliated Bodies Law Enforcement Pin Club Pennsylvania Shield and Square Club Masonic Veterans of Western Pennsylvania Tall Cedars of Lebanon Wa-Cha-Gree Forest No. 149 Golden Triangle York Rite College High Twelve Club of Sewickley #759 - Charter Member

Awards Order of the Purple Cross DeMolay Legion of Honor

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One Day Masonic Journey: Oct. 30, 2010!

Interview with the Grand Master Why did you join the fraternity?

My father was a Mason and the many friends that he had were Masons. I was curious and interested in being like those respected men.

What is your favorite aspect of Freemasonry?

I love the degree work in all facets of the fraternity. The lessons are invaluable to making good men better. The friends and acquaintances that I have made in the many years of being a Freemason have been worth the membership a thousand times over. That certain bond between two Masonic brothers cannot be described.

What is your most meaningful memory during your Masonic experience?

When I had the opportunity to confer the third degree on my son, Seth, with my father and brothers present.

What is the greatest benefit to being a member of the Craft?

The indescribable bond that exists between two men who have had the Masonic experience. Being part of an organization that has the history and influence that this fraternity has had, and being a part owner of the greatest Masonic Temple in the world as well as the most elaborate Masonic Villages in the world – nothing else compares!

in many ways. The fraternity widened my area of acquaintances which ultimately provided me more opportunities. If you were to ask me for a list of my friends, most of them are Masons. I never planned it that way – it just turned out that way. I cannot describe it. I believe it has made me more thoughtful of others and more caring, although I may not show it as outwardly as some.

How would you want to be remembered in terms of your tenure as Grand Master?

I would hope that my brother Masons would recognize me for having the courage to make controversial decisions and changes that will reinvent and modernize Pennsylvania Freemasonry. I would like to be remembered as a Grand Master with tremendous respect for our heritage and customs, but with a vision for the future that will make Freemasonry more contemporary to 2010 rather than 1910. I hope some will say that I gave it a chance and a new breath of fresh air. That I recognized the need for the meetings to be shorter, less monotonous, more interesting and entertaining, while at the same time maintaining the important element of our ancient symbolism. Lastly, I sincerely wish that all Pennsylvania Freemasons will recognize that whatever decisions I make will be to strengthen the future of this fraternity.

Who is your favorite famous Freemason and why?

There are so many, but I always seem to come back to Harry Truman. He was a Grand Master of Missouri and participated in Masonic functions even while he was in the White House. I admire his courage because he made the most difficult decision of any president when he ordered the bombing in Japan, which likely saved the lives of many American military personnel.

How can one man make a difference in this fraternity?

By the way he lives his life. By the way he treats other people.

By assisting in the various charitable endeavors of the fraternity.

It is not for all men to be lodge officers or even to attend regularly.

But every Mason can make a difference by being proud of who we are and what we stand for.

How would you describe the ideal Masonic lodge?

The ideal Mason?

The ideal lodge would be active in its community and show kindness and consideration to all members.

The ideal Mason would recognize a need to modernize the fraternity and he would promote the fraternity daily by his proper actions and consideration for others.

How has being a Mason changed your life?

Being a Mason has made many changes in my life, mostly because I have been so active. The fraternity is similar to networking

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The Pennsylvania Freemason • January 2010 • Vol. LVII • No. 1

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21st Century Renaissance Changes to Freemasonry

Certified Brethren Will Receive a Proficiency Award Pin

District Deputy Grand Masters May Now Serve 10 Years

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The Pennsylvania Freemason • January 2010 • Vol. LVII • No. 1

21st Century Renaissance Changes to Freemasonry

An Unlimited No. of Freemasons Can Be Made in 1 Day Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master

Right Worshipful Senior Grand Warden

Right Worshipful Junior Grand Warden

Jay W. Smith

Robert J. Bateman

Bro. Raymond T. Dietz

Bro. Smith is a Past Master of Casiphia Lodge No. 551 and served as Junior Grand Deacon and District Deputy Grand Master of the 1st Masonic District. He is a member of Royal Arch Chapter No. 43, Goodwin Council No. 19 and Lancaster Commandery No. 13. He has served as Thrice Potent Master in the Valley of Lancaster, Lodge of Perfection, as Most Wise Master in the Valley of Harrisburg and is an Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, 33˚. He is a member of the Chapter of Rose Croix and is a Past President of the Lancaster Scottish Rite Club of Harrisburg Consistory. He is a member of Zembo Temple and the Lancaster County Shrine Club. He also belongs to Trinity Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine and Appendant Orders and Constant Council No. 239, Allied Masonic Degrees. He was awarded the DeMolay Legion of Honor and DeMolay Cross of Honor.

Bro. Smith attended Stevens State School of Technology and Penn State University. He retired from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation as Chief of the Highway Quality Assurance Division after 40 years of service. He is a professional engineer and land surveyor, self-employed part-time in the business of land surveying and related engineering.

Bro. Smith and his wife, Nancy, have three children and eight grandchildren. They are members of Chiques United Methodist Church, where he has served as a Sunday School Teacher and Youth Coordinator.

Bro. Robert J. Bateman is a Past Master of Springfield-Hanby Lodge No. 767 and served as District Deputy Grand Master of the 36th Masonic District. He has served as District Masonic Education Chairman, Representative in Grand Lodge and as an instructor in the School of Instruction. He is a member of Howell Royal Arch Chapter No. 202, Allen Council Royal and Select Master Masons No. 23, Allen-Beauceant Commandery No. 20, Valley of Philadelphia, and is an Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, 33°; Excelsior Mark Lodge No. 216; Constantine Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine; J.M. Alter Council #446 Allied Masonic Degrees; Pennsylvania Lodge of Research; Lu Lu Shriners and the Delaware County Shrine Club. He is also a member of the Masonic Veterans of Pennsylvania, Masonic Blood Donor Club, Pennsylvania Masonic Shield and Square Club and the International Masonic Literary Academy.

Bro. Bateman served in the U.S. Active Army Reserves. He retired from the Upper Darby School District after 35 years, last serving as Coordinator for Custodial Services.

Bro. Bateman became a volunteer firefighter at age 16 and is a life member of Upper Darby Fire Company Station 3. He is a member of American Legion Post 214 and the Chapel of the Four Chaplains. He coached both Youth Flag Football and Little League Baseball, and was Treasurer and later President of the Transport Workers Union Local 289 AFL/CIO. Bro. Bateman and his wife, Joanne, live in Upper Darby, Pa. They have three children and three granddaughters. He is a member of Covenant United Methodist Church, where he serves as a consultant for custodial needs and chemical safety and as a member of the Life Center Feeding Program Team to serve the hungry.

Bro. Raymond T. Dietz will be presented as R.W. Junior Grand Warden on Feb. 2. He is a Past Master of Avalon Lodge No. 657, served as District Deputy Grand Master of the 55th Masonic District, 2004-2009, and on the Grand Lodge Committee on Finance since 2005.

A member of the Valley of Pittsburgh, Bro. Dietz is an Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, 33°. He served as Director of the valley’s Scottish Rite Learning Center and is a member of Hiram’s Riders. He also is a member of Zerubbabel-Duquesne Royal Arch Chapter No. 162; Mt. Moriah Council No. 2; Pittsburgh Commandery No. 1; Syria Shrine; Naco Caravan No. 19; Royal Order of Jesters, Court No. 2; and Islam Grotto. He is a charter member of the Sewickley High Twelve Club and a member of Masonic Veterans of Western PA. A lifelong resident of Allegheny County, Bro. Dietz graduated from North Hills Senior High School in 1970 and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Robert Morris University, majoring in accounting. Bro. Dietz founded Allstate Financial, Pittsburgh, in 1989 and serves as President. He was previously employed by Bell Federal Savings and Loan for 18 years in various capacities including Senior Vice President.

He has served on the Finance Committee for Northmont Presbyterian Church; as director on the foundation board for Allegheny General Hospital, Suburban Campus; and Director, Treasurer and House Chairman for Shannopin Country Club. He is Director of Newport Condominium Association, Bahamas.

Bro. Dietz has been married for 30 years to the former Lynn Boucher and is the father of two daughters, Jennifer Kelley and Jessica Dietz.

and his wife, Nancy

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and his wife, Joanne

and his wife, Lynn

All-Star Teams Will Confer District-wide Degrees Right Worshipful Junior Grand Warden

Jeffrey W. Coy

Right Worshipful Grand Treasurer

Mark A. Haines

and his wife, Jo Anne

and his wife, Karen

Bro. Coy is a Past Master and past Trustee of Cumberland Valley Lodge No. 315. He has been the Choir Director for the Valley of Harrisburg A.A.S.R., and is an Active Member of the Supreme Council, 33˚ for Pennsylvania.

He is a member of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon, George Washington Royal Arch Chapter No. 176, George Washington Council No. 66, Continental Commandery No. 56, the Royal Order of Scotland and Red Cross of Constantine.

Bro. Coy is a recipient of the DeMolay Legion of Honor. He has also served the Grand Lodge as the Grand Organist for the Central Pennsylvania area.

A graduate of Shippensburg University, Bro. Coy is a former Chairman of the Shippensburg University Board of Trustees.

In 2004, Bro. Coy was awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Public Service from Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania.

Bro. Coy served 11 terms as State Representative for the 89th Legislative District of Franklin and Cumberland counties, having been elected to his first two-year term in 1982.

He is also Vice Chairman of the Orrstown Bank and is a member of many other community organizations.

Bro. Coy served nine years on the Chesapeake Bay Commission with representatives from Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia. Currently, he serves as a Commissioner of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.

He and his wife, Jo Anne, live in Shippensburg. They are members of Memorial Lutheran Church, where he has been the organist for more than 30 years.

Bro. Haines is a Past Master of Reading Lodge No. 549 and is a dual member of Teutonia Lodge No. 367. He served as District Deputy Grand Master for the 7th Masonic District and is a member of the PA Lodge of Research. He is a Past Most Excellent High Priest of Reading Royal Arch Chapter No. 152 and is a member of Creigh Council No. 16, Royal and Select Masters; Reading Commandery No. 9; a Past Puissant Sovereign of Constantine Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine; and a member of Excelsior Mark Lodge No. 216. Bro. Haines is a Past Thrice Potent Master and Trustee of Reading Lodge of Perfection, a member of the Valley of Reading and is an Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, 33˚. He is a Past President of the Director’s Staff of Rajah Shrine and a member of Fellowship High Twelve Club No. 669.

An Advisor for the Reading Chapter, Order of DeMolay, Bro. Haines was awarded the DeMolay Legion of Honor. He also served as an Advisor for Reading Assembly, International Order of The Rainbow for Girls.

Bro. Haines graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Business Administration.

He was installed as the R.W. Grand Secretary on Dec. 27, 2005. Previously, he was employed as Deputy Grand Secretary and held various management positions within the insurance industry.

He and his wife, Karen, have five children. They live in West Lawn and attend Peace Lutheran Church, where Bro. Haines is a member of the church choir and serves on the church council.

Grand Master’s Medallion The Grand Master’s Medallion celebrates the 100th Anniversary of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown in 2010. Featuring the breathtaking formal gardens leading up to the majestic Grand Lodge Hall, the first building constructed on the sprawling campus, the medallion proudly portrays the community’s century-long Mission of Love.

Grand Master’s Pin 11

The Pennsylvania Freemason • January 2010 • Vol. LVII • No. 1

21st Century Renaissance Changes to Freemasonry

Dues Can Now Be Paid by Credit or Debit

Newly Appointed Floor Officers

senior grand deacon

junior grand deacon

grand steward

grand steward

grand sword bearer

Wallace L. Sturgeon

Elwood C. Hocker, Jr.

Herbert K. Swisher

William J. Greet

Wilson L. Sturgeon, Sr.

Grand Marshal

Assist. Grand marshal

grand pursuivant

grand tyler

Jon A. Fair

Russell W. Baker

Eugene F. Hlavac, Jr.

Edward J. Stumm

consultant to the grand master

Lodge No. 669, District 47

Lodge No. 521, District 52

Lodge No. 587, District 1

Lodge No. 405, District 5

Lodge No. 43, District 1

Lodge No. 613, District 54

Lodge No. 67, District C

Lodge No. 309, District 5

Lodge No. 669, District 47

Doug Harbach

Lodge No. 801, District 3

Newly Appointed District Deputy Grand Masters

district 15

DISTRICT 17

DISTRICT 41

Walter S. Muller

George R. Grant

William J. Huston

Lodge No. 445

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Lodge No. 602

Lodge No. 538

“Call ‘Em All” Will Continue as “Call to the Craft”

Newly Appointed Aides to the Grand Master

Joseph F. Action

Lodge No. 337, District 29

John A. Habel, Jr.

Lodge No. 638, District 31

Albert P. DeAmicis

Lodge No. 509, District 57

Anthony J. Garvey

Lodge No. 384, District E

James M. Ecker

Lodge No. 231, District 55

Gary P. Wendt

Lodge No. 464, District 2

Thomas R. Leicht, Jr. Lodge No. 613, District 54

Frank J. DeStefano, Jr.

Edward H. Cervonka

James J. Wabby

William J. Magnotti, Jr.

Jeffrey S. Greene

George Nakonetschny

Lodge No. 781, District 2

Lodge No. 743, District 57

Lodge No. 751, District D

Lodge No. 19, District C

Lodge No. 509, District 57

Lodge No. 806, District 8

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The Pennsylvania Freemason • January 2010 • Vol. LVII • No. 1

21st Century Renaissance Changes to Freemasonry

Lodge Notices Are to Be Distributed Electronically

Renaissance as to Membership SELECTIVE INVITATION While placing continued emphasis on the preferred practice of a candidate asking a brother to be proposed for membership, now brethren may also engage in selective invitation. Under this change, members are now permitted to invite a man of good character to join this fraternity.

In many ways, this is only authorizing what has been a common practice for many members for years.

BLACK BALLS AND REJECTION It will now require three black balls to reject a candidate.

At the same time, any one brother may still reject a candidate by going to the District Deputy Grand Master (D.D.G.M.), privately, and stating his reason for rejection.

If the D.D.G.M. finds the reason for rejection to be a true Masonic objection and the facts to be truthful, he will submit the objection on behalf of the anonymous brother.

MORE THAN 5 FREEMASONS MADE IN ONE DAY

ONE DAY MASONIC JOURNEY On Oct. 30, 2010, our Grand Lodge will hold a One Day Masonic Journey in 13 locations across the state. The classes will be conducted much the same as the One Day Class held in 2004.

This is an excellent opportunity to invite interested, quality men, who may have busy schedules and numerous business and personal time commitments, to join our ranks. During this event, approved candidates will be able to join Symbolic, Scottish Rite and Shrine Freemasonry all in one day.

Brethren: if you are a member of a Blue Lodge but have an interest in expanding your Masonic experience to include Scottish Rite and Shrine Masonry, this is a convenient option for you, too!

The restriction whereby only five Freemasons can be made in one day is hereby removed. The “Ahiman Rezon” and the ritual will be changed accordingly, and lodges and Masonic districts will be permitted and encouraged to make as many Masons as they choose to in one day.

DISTRICT-WIDE DEGREE CONFERRALS Degrees for membership are hereby permitted to be done on a Masonic district basis in the spring and fall. The degrees will be done on three separate days, just as they are now. All-star degree teams should be chosen, and the mechanics of this process will be announced at the Schools of Instruction. Performing the very best conferrals will make the presentation even more impressive, and having the lodge room full will show the new members the proper attention.

SENIOR RECRUITMENT PROGRAM

The new Senior Recruitment Program is being implemented as an incentive to invite worthy candidates to join our ranks. Any member who is age 60 or higher and who successfully recommends for membership two members who are less than 30 years old will be exempt from lodge and Grand Lodge dues for life.

DUES PAYMENT BY CREDIT CARD In order to bring our dues payment method up to modern times and help with cash flow, every lodge will be able to receive a member’s dues by use of a credit or debit card. For convenience and efficiency, all members will be encouraged to participate in an automatic withdrawal from their credit card each year for their dues.

MEMBERSHIP COMMUNICATION The “Call ‘em All” program will continue under the new title of “Call to the Craft” to be paid for the lodges’ use by the Grand Lodge. One of the most important duties that we can perform is to keep in communication with our members!

LODGE NOTICES Lodge secretaries are encouraged to use e-mail for the distribution of lodge notices. With proper planning, this could save the lodge several hundred dollars a year that could be used for other purposes.

MEMBERSHIP GROWTH & RETENTION AWARDS Awards will be presented to the lodges that excel in a positive membership increase for the year and also for lodges that retain their members by having no suspensions.

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Lodges Awarded for Membership Growth & Retention

Renaissance as to grand lodge PRINTING OF THE RITUAL

PROFICIENCY AWARD PIN

Now, for the first time, there is an absolute printed version of our ritual of the three degrees, so that never again will there be any question among our brethren as to the official authorized work. The ritual manuals will provide more brethren the opportunity to learn about and memorize our beautiful Pennsylvania Masonic ritual. A brother now may, in his spare time, work on the memorization of the ritual without having to make an appointment with another brother.

“I believe that this convenient tool for brethren wishing to learn the ritual will dramatically enhance the way we perform our degree work,” Grand Master Sturgeon said. He places serious emphasis on maintaining the integrity of the ritual, however: “Use this manual to your benefit, respect the confidentiality of it, but most important of all, observe the restrictions placed upon its use.”

Restrictions are as follows: • This manual may not be used in an open meeting of the lodge.

• This manual may not be used for prompting during a degree.

• This manual may not be used to read from during any degree.

• The material in this manual may not be copied or photocopied in any way.

• No brother shall knowingly permit a non-Mason to look through this manual.

• The D.D.G.M. will audit the rituals during his official visitation to assure they are properly cared for.

Penalties are as follows: • Any lodge that is found to be in violation of any of the above restrictions will have its Warrant of Constitution forfeited to the Grand Lodge.

• Any brother found to be in violation of any of the above restrictions will be subject to Masonic discipline.

“I recognize, full well, the impact of this decision and the controversy that will result,” Grand Master Sturgeon said. “My rationale is this: if we truly believe in our professed Masonic values of loving our wives, our children, our family, our community, our country, and also keeping a good occupational work ethic, then we need to make it more convenient for a brother to learn our ritual without neglecting the aforementioned entities. Let us require less time away from families by allowing our brethren to learn our beautiful ritual during their own precious free time instead of insisting that it be memorized by word of mouth.

“Just how secret is our ritual anyhow? If anyone were to Google ‘Masonic Ritual,’ he will find most of what we consider sacred right there on the Internet. Not word for word, as we know it, or completely accurate – but very close to the approved work. If you do some research you will realize that we have no secrets.

“We will not be publishing the ritual in a book to be sold online or at a local bookstore. The ritual manual will be controlled by the Worshipful Master of the lodge, and he will be responsible for signing in and signing out the manuals to ensure an absolute audit of each manual. When signing out a manual, a brother will sign an agreement, on his Masonic word, that he will not permit photocopying or otherwise writing or printing of the ritual.”

A Proficiency Award Pin has been created to be awarded to and worn by any brother who has been certified by the Schools of Instruction as having become proficient in all three symbolic degrees.

TERMS OF DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS District Deputy Grand Masters are now permitted to serve 10 years by mutual agreement of the Grand Master and the District Deputy. Five years’ service is still required for the designation of Past District Deputy Grand Master.

MASONIC CONGRESS On Feb. 26-27, 2010, Grand Master Sturgeon will hold a Masonic Congress at the Masonic Conference Center-Patton Campus in Elizabethtown for all Masonic entities. The purpose will be to find ways to work together in a unity of purpose for the betterment of our beloved Craft.

“THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON” MAGAZINE “The Pennsylvania Freemason” magazine will have less of the Grand Master and more of the fraternity across this wonderful state. It will include interesting articles about various geographical regions of the state and will feature the small towns and cities and their history and Masonic significance.

YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS The Grand Lodge assessment will be raised by $.50, with all of the proceeds going to the youth group initiatives. Monitored by the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation, these monies will go directly to the various youth organizations as incentive grants for the completion of worthy projects.

DRESS CODE FOR LODGE MEETINGS The dress code for lodge meetings is hereby relaxed to a more contemporary style whereby a necktie is not required. Any lesser dress code requirements will be established by the appropriate D.D.G.M.

OPEN INSTALLATION The open installation of all symbolic lodge officers, including the Worshipful Master, is strongly encouraged. In every instance, whether it be an open or closed installation, no brother will be asked to leave the meeting. The Schools of Instruction will provide the necessary vehicle to assume more openness in the installation process.

OPENING & CLOSING OF MEETINGS Grand Master Sturgeon has authorized the lodges to open and close all of their meetings in a shortened manner prescribed by the Schools of Instruction. “Our meetings must be more interesting, less monotonous and take less time, thereby allowing more time for fellowship,” he said.

MASONIC DISTRICT REALIGNMENT Eight Masonic Districts will be eliminated and others realigned to make our operation more efficient financially and fraternally.

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The Pennsylvania Freemason • January 2010 • Vol. LVII • No. 1

21st Century Renaissance Changes to Freemasonry

Lodges Will Conduct Monthly Community Service DUE PROCESS

MASONIC TEMPLE

Grand Master Sturgeon will enact a new Due Process procedure which will limit the authority of the Grand Master in suspensions and expulsions. The lodges will be encouraged to act on these issues, but if a situation requires action by the Grand Lodge, that action will take place following a meeting of the Committee on Landmarks and the brother in question having a fair hearing with his appropriate due process protected.

Through an exciting technologically-advanced initiative program, an electronic guide system is being created by the Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania for tours of the Masonic Temple.

This professionally-created CD will be played for all visitors to this ancient but glorious facility, describing the room or area they are in. New DVD players and speakers will be installed in every room to ensure high quality sound throughout the building. Modernizing the tour experience will ensure that all visitors receive the same tour information.

LEGAL STRUCTURE OF THE GRAND LODGE The legal structure of the Grand Lodge will be reviewed, and if it is necessary, changes will be made that ensure the limited liability of the Grand Lodge officers.

COMMITTEE ON MASONIC HOMES The Committee on Masonic Homes will meet four times per year instead of six, and Grand Master Sturgeon will not chair that committee. “The function of this committee is too important, and it is imperative that it function as an independent committee without the influence of the Grand Master,” Grand Master Sturgeon said in explaining his decision.

LODGE AUDITS The Grand Lodge is working on the development of the necessary software to make the lodge audit process easier and simpler for all concerned.

GRAND LODGE COMMITTEES Grand Master Sturgeon has eliminated several of the traditional Grand Lodge committees, merged the responsibilities of other committees and totally revamped the committee structure to make the Grand Lodge more efficient and to save money.

Renaissance as to visibility & image MASONIC VILLAGES ADOPT-A-RESIDENT To enhance members’ relationships with our Masonic Villages, every lodge is encouraged and expected to adopt a person or couple from one of the Masonic Villages. The lodge should arrange for visits, take residents out to dinner or lunch, give gifts for birthdays and holidays and look after their general needs.

ONE-TIME MAJOR FUNDRAISER Every lodge is expected to have a fundraiser during 2010, with the beneficiary being the Masonic Villages. This effort is in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Each lodge will be expected to raise a minimum of $2,000 for the Masonic Villages. To assure success, there will be an incentive program, awards and rewards for the lodges or districts who raise the largest amounts of money based on a ratio of raised funds to total membership. It will be the D.D.G.M.s’ responsibility to ensure that all appropriate laws are being adhered to.

PUBLIC SERVICE Every lodge needs to become more involved and visible in its local community. Lodges will be expected to do one local service initiative every month during the next two years. This could be for the community, such as repairs or maintenance to a ball field, or it could be cutting the grass or making repairs to the home of an elderly person. It could be a day-long or several hours-long project.

Grand Master Sturgeon made the following statement: “There should not be a lodge in this jurisdiction that does not have its name and the Masonic emblem on the outfield fence of their local youth league ball field. Lodges should be participating in the local food banks, marching in the local parades, having events that recognize the widows of deceased brothers and any community involvement

16

that will modernize our image. You can expect me to approve almost any kind of Masonic awareness project. I encourage your creative ideas!”

RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS “Every Pennsylvania Freemason is to commit to at least one Random Act of Kindness every week for the next two years,” Grand Master Sturgeon said. “It may be buying a person’s coffee, carrying someone’s groceries, shoveling snow or doing yard work for a neighbor, watching a couple’s children so they can spend some time together, or any little act that makes us stand out as special.”

“Pennsylvania Masons should be very active in working with the Masonic Service Association’s veterans’ hospital visitation program,” Grand Master Sturgeon said. Participation in this program will be part of the incentive program for awards.

“When thanked for our actions, we should simply state, ‘I am a Pennsylvania Freemason and we have a mission to help others.’

Just think about it; if every one of our 120,000 members did just one act of kindness once a week for the next two years, we will have shown kindness to over 10 million people! Would that help to improve our image? I think so!”

SUPPORT FOR OUR TROOPS Pennsylvania Masons will continue our strong support for our military personnel. The “Change for the Troops” program will now be known as “Help for Our Heroes.” The program focus will change from supporting our military in the desert to supporting the seriously injured who are hospitalized. We will present the injured with calling cards and will work with the military services to provide needed travel expenses for family of the injured to visit their injured family member in the hospital or any other needed assistance.

Commit a Weekly Random Act of Kindness

Finding Treasure in “The Lost Symbol”

by P.J. Roup, District Deputy Grand Master for Masonic District 54 In late September, “The Lost Symbol,” Dan Brown’s long awaited follow-up to “The Da Vinci Code,” came to rest briefly on bookstore shelves. I say briefly because it sold more than one million copies in the first 24 hours. Prior to that day, rumors that our beloved fraternity may figure prominently into the plot had some within our ranks concerned and/or intrigued. Could one who is not a Mason write a believable book about the Craft? Would we be treated fairly? Would the conspiracy theorists cite this novel as fact like some did after the release of “The Da Vinci Code?” As an aside, I never understood the uproar over “The Da Vinci Code” since the dust jacket (at least mine) has the words “A Novel” clearly printed on it.

“The Lost Symbol” opens in The House of the Temple in Washington, D.C., where its antagonist is being initiated into “the highest echelon” of the fraternity. His motives aren’t known, but he thinks to himself, “Soon you will lose everything you hold most dear.”

This is the first of Brown’s many masterfully orchestrated cliffhangers and one of the things that makes this book so difficult to put down. Nearly every one of its relatively short chapters leaves the reader with an urgent need to resolve something. That something is rarely resolved in the next chapter. Rather, the reader is left hanging again and anxious about something else.

As the plot unfolds, the reader accompanies Robert Langdon, noted Harvard symbologist and the protagonist of two of Brown’s previous novels, “Angels and Demons” and “The Da Vinci Code,” through Washington, D.C. – from the Capitol building to the Washington Masonic Memorial in Alexandria, Va. – with many stops in between. Each setting is described in such detail that the reader may sometimes feel he is actually there with the characters. Brown’s description of art – including “The Apotheosis of Washington” – is as close as you can come to a forgery with the written word.

Through the nearly limitless knowledge of Robert Langdon, we learn of the supposed relationships between the occult, astrology, the founding fathers, the Egyptian mysteries and Freemasonry.

Though some of the connections are dubious, it is obvious that Brown conducted meticulous research prior to penning “The Lost Symbol.”

Why do many people find Dan Brown’s novels so fascinating?

Part of his genius lies in his ability to intertwine what in reality are disparate objects, entities, locations and sciences like Albrecht Dürer’s “Melancholia I,” the Freemasons, Washington, D.C., and the little-known science of noetics. The result is a tale that makes the reader, even if only briefly, scratch his head and wonder how he could have missed such obvious connections.

It is precisely because so many of the locations and organizations in the book are familiar to the reader that he can easily suspend his disbelief – just a little – and see plausible connections in the otherwise unrelated.

Does the capstone of the Washington Monument weigh precisely 3,300 pounds?

I’m not sure. Even if that is the case, does it prove a Masonic conspiracy? Doubtful, since 33 and 3,300 are completely different numbers. Still, Brown takes his fair share of poetic license in the book, creating locations and events to help advance the plot. It doesn’t detract from the story. Again, it is a novel, so one should expect some things to be concocted from scratch.

If the book has one major flaw, it would be that it is quite formulaic. Brown draws on what has worked in the past: Exotic but familiar location? Check. Robert Langdon unwittingly duped into becoming involved in the plot? Check. Attractive, intelligent woman to accompany him on the adventures?

Check. Why not? It has worked before and it will work again, as long as Brown is able to connect all the dots to the satisfaction of his readers, which he was able to do in this volume with great deftness.

Back to our own cliffhanger: How did the Masons fare in the book? Actually, we receive extremely fair treatment from Brown. Through Robert Langdon, the reader is assured we are not a religion. When a student calls the Masons a “freaky cult” because of our initiation rites, he replies, “Don’t tell anyone, but on the pagan day of the sun god Ra, I kneel at the foot of an ancient instrument of torture and consume ritualistic symbols of blood and flesh,” – an allusion to Sunday Communion beneath the cross.

Later, he notes that, “Masonic initiations were startling because they were meant to be transformative. Masonic vows were unforgiving because they were meant to be reminders that man’s honor and his ‘word’ were all he could take from this world. Masonic teachings were arcane because they were meant to be universal . . . taught through a common language of symbols and metaphors that transcended religions, cultures and races . . .” Most of the worn objections and criticisms that have been hurled our way over the years are adroitly deflected or dismissed by Langdon. All in all, the fraternity is treated most fairly.

Masons and non-Masons alike can enjoy this book. As a Mason, you may want to consider reading it so that the next time someone sees your ring and starts a conversation with “Hey, I just read ‘The Lost Symbol’ and was wondering . . .” you will have at least some common ground to begin a conversation about what it really means to be a member of the world’s greatest fraternity.

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The Pennsylvania Freemason • January 2010 • Vol. LVII • No. 1

18

21st Century Renaissance Changes to Freemasonry

Members May Learn Our Ritual from Printed Manuals

Meet Bro. Leonard Apt: A Renaissance Man

Bro. Dr. Leonard Apt, Equity Lodge No. 591, Philadelphia, is a gregarious man who exudes both appreciation and vivacity for life.

In addition to his renowned career in medicine as a provider, pioneer and educator, this “Renaissance man,” as friends call him, is a wellknown contributor to the arts, a sports enthusiast, an authority on oenology and a gourmet food connoisseur.

Dr. Apt is best known for establishing a new medical subspecialty to address a reoccurring problem he faced throughout his early years as a pediatrician.

Diagnosing and treating eye problems in children is especially important because a child’s vision develops primarily in the first six years of life. Unless a defect is detected, a child may have poor vision in the involved eye for the rest of his or her life, according to Dr. Apt. Studies indicate 2 to 5 percent of preschool-age children have a defect that may not be apparent.

“During my pediatric training, I would request a consultation for a baby who was having a vision problem and the ophthalmologists would ask, ‘how do you get information from a baby?’” he said. “That’s when I realized I could adapt my pediatric techniques to ophthalmology. I stepped aside to receive full training in ophthalmology and became the first physician to be board-certified in both pediatrics and ophthalmology. I helped create pediatric ophthalmology as a new subspecialty in medicine.”

He is listed in the “Who’s Who in the World” directory as the founder of academic pediatric ophthalmology. He is also the founder of the first full-time division of pediatric ophthalmology at UCLA’s (University of California, Los Angeles) school of medicine.

Dr. Apt was born and raised in Philadelphia. After entering college at age 15, he graduated with highest honors from the University of Pennsylvania in 1942. Because of Dr. Apt’s love for science and research, a Penn instructor suggested he study medicine. After graduating from Jefferson Medical College with highest honors in 1945, Dr. Apt completed his residency in pediatrics at the children’s hospitals in Detroit and Cincinnati and at Harvard’s Children’s Medical Center, where he also served as chief medical resident. He continued on as full-time faculty as a teaching fellow and an instructor in pediatrics at Harvard University Medical School until 1955. He completed his

residency in ophthalmology at Wills Eye Hospital, and after developing a formal pediatric ophthalmology training program as the first special fellow with National Institutes of Health, he returned as the first fellow in pediatrics ophthalmology at Wills in 1959.

At UCLA, beginning in 1961, he served as assistant professor in ophthalmology, then professor, and has served as a distinguished professor since 1993. Having established the first full-time division of pediatric ophthalmology there in 1961, he currently serves as the program’s director emeritus. That same year, he became a founder of the Jules Stein Eye Institute, UCLA, and attending surgeon.

During his residency at Harvard’s Children’s Medical Center, he developed the Apt Test, which distinguishes fetal from adult hemoglobin and is known worldwide by pediatricians and obstetricians. He also assisted in the design of plastic bags now used for blood transfusions in children and contributed to the development of present day nonallergic absorbable surgical sutures.

In addition to treating patients, Dr. Apt has concentrated on prevention. He co-founded the UCLA Center to Prevent Childhood Blindness. In 1999, he established an extensive preschool vision testing program at UCLA and continues to serve as its medical advisor. The program has benefited thousands of children in the Los Angeles area.

He also helped develop an inexpensive antiseptic eye drop which is now the standard method for preparing and sterilizing the eye before surgery, and is heavily used to reduce incidences of pediatric blindness in developing countries.

“My scientific and academic work revolves around me always being interested in knowing why,” he said.

His untiring quest for answers has earned him the Dickson Emeritus Professorship Award, the American Association for Pediatrics Lifetime Achievement Award, UCLA’s Alumni Universal Service Award and the Medical Alumni Association’s Professional Achievement Award, among many other recognitions. Dr. Apt published more than 300 articles and published one of the early textbooks on pediatric ophthalmology. He is the first active faculty member to endow both a fellowship and a chair at UCLA. The Leonard Apt Lecture was established by the American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Ophthalmology in honor of his dedication and contributions to pediatrics and pediatric ophthalmology.

Dr. Apt joined Equity Lodge No. 591 (formerly La Fayette Lodge No. 71) in 1944 and later became a Shriner. A few of his friends were involved in the fraternity and told him about the good things the organization did for the community.

“I’ve enjoyed the brotherhood and what they do,” he said. “It’s a great organization. I especially enjoy the people.”

Outside the office, he is an enthusiast and supporter of many different genres of art, in particular, performing arts, and serves on various boards of directors including as vice president of finance for the UCLA Grunwald Center for Graphic Arts. His interests and contributions also expand to the athletic department at UCLA, and he is a member of several international food and wine societies.

Dr. Apt’s most recent achievement? His Apt Test was a question on “Jeopardy.” “I feel I’ve truly made it now,” he quipped.

Nearly 60 years after he started practicing medicine, Dr. Apt remains active as a physician, educator, board member and donor.

“I’ve had a long career,” he said. “I enjoyed it and it still keeps me very busy. I’m very grateful for my achievements and glad I’ve been able to live long enough to appreciate them.”

that Will Be Monitored Closely & Never Used in Lodge

A Lasting Impression As a young man fresh out of college, Bro. Allen Breed, North East Lodge No. 399, Northeast, took a job with General Electric (GE). This career choice greatly impacted his life, leading him to meet his wife, Becky, transplanting him to a foreign country and introducing him to the Masonic fraternity.

Originally from Boston, his work with GE sent him to Erie, where he met Becky on a blind date. Her father, the late Bro. Dr. James Andrew Merle Russell, was a Mason in Commonwealth Lodge No. 695, now Tyrian-Commonwealth Lodge No. 362. While residing in Pennsylvania, Bro. Breed made the decision to join the Freemasons, which led him to join the Scottish Rite, Shriners and the Royal Order of Jesters also. He has served as Commodore of San Francisco Shrine Yacht Club and Director of South Bay Shrine Comios.

When asked what it means to be a Mason, Bro. Breed simply said, “It’s an association of men which you just can’t describe with words.

The result is a feeling of oneness.”

GE transferred him and his wife, their two sons and their daughter to Tokyo, Japan, for two years, which was a good experience for the family. It encouraged their children to become interested in foreign travel and world affairs, according to Becky.

They ended up in Saratoga, Calif., where Bro. Breed retired. Their home, much warmer than Erie, is close to Silicone Valley and is a sister city to Muko, Japan. Throughout their worldwide travels, the Breeds have returned to Japan several times since residing there.

Boating and sailing kept Bro. and Mrs. Breed busy in their retirement, but they recently passed their boat on to one of their sons. They enjoy being active in the local community and their church, and Bro. Breed also belongs to the Sons of the American Revolution.

During a reunion trip to Becky’s alma mater, the University Pennsylvania, the Breeds toured the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia.

“It was fabulous,” Bro. Breed said. “Walking through the museum and seeing George Washington’s apron was outstanding.”

“Historically, it’s one of the greatest things in Philadelphia,” Becky said.

Several years ago, Bro. Breed received his 50-year Emblem of

Bro. Allen Breed and his wife, Becky Breed

Gold from then-Grand Master Ronald A. Aungst, Sr., while attending a reception hosted by Bro. Alvin H. Blitz of the Masonic Charities of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania for Pennsylvania Masons in the San Francisco area. Bro. and Mrs. Breed then approached Bro. Blitz about establishing several charitable trusts to provide them and their children with substantial income for their lives with the remaining funds to be given to the Masonic Temple.

In appreciation for their significant and generous gift, Bro. Blitz suggested Allen and Becky consider choosing a location in the Masonic Temple to be dedicated in memory of Becky’s father, Dr. Bro. Merle Russell. After reviewing their choices, the Breeds determined that the most fitting location they desired was Ionic Hall. Named for its Ionic order of architecture, the hall features pillars finished in cream-tone ivory with capitals enriched with gold, vermilion and blue. The ceiling of Ionic Hall represents the blue vault of heaven. In the center blazes the mid-day sun, surrounded by the planetary signs and signs of the zodiac.

Despite living across the country, the Breeds continue to be inspired

by Freemasonry in Pennsylvania. Their support of the fraternity’s beloved and majestic Masonic Temple will perpetuate the building’s lasting impression on visitors and Masons from around the world for generations to come.

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The Pennsylvania Freemason • January 2010 • Vol. LVII • No. 1

20

21st Century Renaissance Changes to Freemasonry

Support Our Military through “Help for Our Heroes”

“It’s About Time!” ...for a Masonic Renaissance Since the end of World War II, population figures in North America have soared. Up until 1959, Masonic membership increased, as well. Since then, however, while the general population has continued to grow dramatically, Masonic membership figures have dropped to their lowest levels in more than 80 years. Even at our membership’s lowest point in 1941, which included the Depression years, Freemasonry still had 800,000 more members than we do today.

Why? According to the Masonic Information Center (MIC), this can only mean that Masons have simply not kept pace with our changing lifestyles. “Change is the one constant, and Freemasons have done little to keep pace with change,” stated the MIC Task Force charged in 2004 with evaluating the membership trend and proposing recommendations for enhancing the fraternity’s public image. “Clearly, Masons are not satisfactorily addressing ways of keeping our members involved and enthusiastic about Masonry.”

They began by asking themselves, “Who are we as a fraternal organization within the context of the 21st century?”

According to Dr. Michael Hammer, president and founder of Hammer and Company, a business education and research firm, and the author of four books, “One thing that tells me a company is in trouble is when they tell me how good they were in the past.

Same with countries. You don’t want to forget your identity. I am glad you were great in the 14th century, but that was then and this is now. When memories exceed dreams, the end is near.”

Along the same vein, the MIC Task Force stated, “Our Masonic memories are to be treasured, but our Masonic dreams have faltered. Simply put, we have forgotten our Masonic identity so that our memories truly do exceed our dreams. It is about time we brought our actions in line with our aspirations.” The first step, the task force advised, is to focus on making Masonry relevant to our changing communities and our 21st century lives. Taking “the initiative to participate in building our own destiny, brother by brother, lodge by lodge.”

Current lifestyles often require two spouse incomes. More people are commuting longer distances to and from work. Family time is squeezed into the evenings and weekends, and very often the children have their own activities. In addition, the technology explosion has provided a source for entertainment, activity and connectivity that competes with any organization requiring a time commitment. In short, while society has changed, Freemasons have changed very little to keep pace with the modern world. The landline has been replaced by the cell phone, the typewriter with the computer and regular mail by e-mail, yet “Freemasons still grouse about any increase in dues or per capita. It is time to readjust our thinking and come to realize that both time and money are necessary factors in creating a quality organization,” the MIC Task Force concluded.

Yet one aspect of the fraternity has, and must continue to remain constant, they agreed: “Freemasonry wants to attract fellow journeymen who are seeking enrichment in body, mind and spirit

through participation in a brotherhood committed to good works and personal growth.”

In order to continue to do so, it is essential that Freemasonry work on improving its visibility and image.

“With few exceptions over the last several decades, we have been content to listen to excuses, avoiding examination of the complicated set of changes that has weakened Masonry’s relevance to our contemporary lives. Even today, we want to think of ‘loss of membership’ as our major problem. This report argues that membership loss is not the major problem. In fact, our study asks that we shift our thinking to consider our loss of membership as merely a symptom of the problem,” the MIC Task Force stated.

Based upon its study, the Task Force proposes that our core problem is two-fold: 1. Loss of Masonic identity 2. Lack of energy invested in Masonry This means our fraternity has suffered a loss of Masonic identity as an observable way of life, and our lack of energy invested in Masonry no longer makes the fraternity relevant to our busy contemporary lifestyles, the task force explained. As Masons, we have taken our fraternity’s identity for granted, and we have allowed the general public to forget how important we are to the fabric of society. We forgot that what we do for each other, our lodges and ourselves enriches the quality of life for our families and communities. Only recently has Masonry found a new place in popular culture with the introduction of Dan Brown’s books, “The DaVinci Code” and “The Lost Symbol” and the “National Treasure” movies. These novels and films position our public identity in the context of historical fiction. “We owe the public more than fiction; we owe them facts, and we owe them our best performance every day,” the task force proclaimed.

“The Masonic Information Center proposes that Masons must first take ownership of an identity that distinguishes Masonry from other men’s organizations. Masonry is a process of lifelong learning and discovery that delivers a way of living a principled life, observable in the simplest behaviors, whether at lodge, at home, or in the workplace,” they said.

“Throughout history, both European and North American Masonic values consistently influenced people’s daily lives by encouraging the right to question existing dogma and by upholding our right to express one’s own thoughts and ideas. These values promote toleration of all religious and philosophical views. The fraternity has been a constructive, stabilizing and enlightening force throughout history.”

So how does the public perceive Freemasonry today?

The task force devised the following response: In today’s world of high-speed communications, the public’s perception is often based on insufficient information. Research suggests that today, more people are impressed by what they see and hear than by what they read. We believe that the public’s

Grand Lodge Committees Are Restructured for Efficiency

perception and opinion of Freemasonry can be summarized briefly in the following ways: 1. Confused. Are the Masons a fraternity, a religious organization or an alternative religion?

2. Mistaken. Only grandfathers could be in such an old-fashioned organization as Freemasonry.

3. Oblivious. People are not even aware Masonry still exists.

Ouch! That hurts.

“Masons are not visible in the daily life of their communities.

Their identity is frequently misunderstood and misrepresented in the press and by religious critics. There is little reserve of positive memories of Masonic activity remaining in our communities.

Consequently, they have lost their significance within the context of community,” the task force observed.

So how can we change this and regain the stature Freemasonry once held in society?

“The model Masonic fraternity member would be easy to identify in the community by his actions and words. Public awareness of Masonry begins at a grassroots level. Masons must be visible in the community to demonstrate Masonic values in many aspects of their lives,” the task force concluded.

“As trustees of Masonry’s rich and valuable heritage, members must continually invigorate their approach to Masonic participation, making it an experience that is rewarding, enriching, and relevant to its members, their families and the greater community.

“We have individually and collectively allowed our lethargy to encrust the jewel of Masonry, which has been bequeathed to us to pass on to the future. Our focus on the past has blinded us to the challenges of the present. And it is the present that we must address both as individuals and as a fraternal organization. Our reliance on former brothers’ successes has weakened our commitment to achieving our own Masonic identities. We must look squarely into the challenge of performing Masonry to the betterment of our fraternity and ourselves.

“The Square and Compasses, the best known symbol of a Mason, cannot replace the identity of living the life of a Mason, which is itself perpetually in a state of improving ourselves in body, mind and spirit. Masonic imagery is a valuable resource when it inspires us to take new action consistent with our personal growth and enlightened thought. We must discover our own Masonic calling, our own place in the history of Masonry, by making authentic Masonic performance our top priority.

“We must begin by uncovering the Mason within us so that we can present Masonry in fact, and not in fiction. The personal journey will establish the presence of Masonry in the public’s view.

Each of us has a responsibility to steward our respected fraternity into the future, calling on our own spirit rather than deferring to those of our predecessors. We must exercise the same determination that we admire and celebrate in our heritage.

“We need ways of recognizing success, encouraging creativity,

and rewarding accomplishments. Small actions, kind words and expressions of concern for others are just a few examples.

“Our Masonic resources are great; the tools for honing the Perfect Ashlar in each and every one of us are at our disposal, but they lie scattered across lodges,” the task force observed. “We must put them to good use. We urge each lodge to inventory its tangible and intangible assets, such as people, places, artifacts, relationships and systems. Although each lodge has an individual and valuable identity within the context of Freemasonry, there is much to learn and share from one another’s lodge-based activities. With more than one and a half million members in North America, Masons are poised to sharpen the tools of our Craft to improve ourselves and to fulfill the promise of the stewardship of Freemasonry.”

Specifically, the task force recommends planning meaningful meetings, programs, activities and events at the lodge level that clearly put Masonic values into action. It will require imagination, open-mindedness and discipline.

The change won’t be easy and it won’t happen overnight, but don’t we owe it to our forefathers, our children, our community, and ourselves? It’s about time for us to take the concept of Masonry off the shelf and put the values of Masonry into action.

Let’s make it the fraternity that WE want – brother by brother, lodge by lodge!

The information within this article was derived from “It’s About Time,” a report completed following a study focused on the need for Masonic Public Awareness. Produced by a special task force from the Steering Committee of the Masonic Information Center, the report fulfills a request made at the 2004 Conference of Grand Masters in North America to identify the image of the fraternity and its need for increased public awareness.

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The Pennsylvania Freemason • January 2010 • Vol. LVII • No. 1

21st Century Renaissance Changes to Freemasonry

Opening & Closing of Meetings May Be Shortened

Masons “Ride for Sight”

Left: Members of Masonic Motorcycle Club Chapter 38 during the “Ride for Sight” event.

Middle: Bro. Howard Wohlheiter, Watsontown Lodge No. 401, gives Heather Schutt the front seat on this motorcycle.

Right: Bro. Jamie Phillips, Watsontown Lodge No. 401 and Vice President of Masonic Motorcycle Club Chapter 38, stands by a truck loaded with donated toys for children in need this holiday season.

On Oct. 24, the Masonic Motorcycle Club Chapter 38, under the direction of Bro. Howard Wohlheiter, Watsontown Lodge No. 401, held a pig roast and motorcycle “Ride for Sight.” This was a benefit event for a local girl, Heather Schutt, who suffers from Optic Nerve Hypoplasia and therefore has extremely limited sight. Bro. Wohlheiter was struck by the need to do something to increase this 2-year-old girl’s quality of life and restore her vision.

He remembered a magazine article he had read months ago about a child who was sent to China to receive treatment for four weeks and how the child’s vision was dramatically improved. He wanted the same for Heather.

The downpours did not dampen the spirits of the 12 motorcyclists and 75 others who traveled from Williamsport, Mifflinburg and all points in between to ride for a little girl none of them even knew.

Many brethren, groups, clubs and organizations donated time and money to make it a very successful event, raising more than $5,500. Heather was present all day and even posed for a few pictures on some Harley Davidson motorcycles.

A few weeks later, on Nov. 14, the brethren of Chapter 38 organized a Toys for Tots drive at the Watsontown American Legion Post 323, collecting more than 100 toys, bikes and games. During the night, which included DJ entertainment and food, more than 100 people attended the event, which also raised an additional $400 to benefit the Heather Schutt Medical Expense Trust.

If anyone wishes to donate, please send a check or money order designated for “Heather Schutt Medical Eyesight Fund” to: Mifflinburg Bank and Trust, 250 E. Chestnut St., Mifflinburg, Pa., 17844. For more information, call (570) 966-1041.

Congratulations to...

Bro. Robert H. Benson was recently recognized for 60 years of service as a member of Freedom Lodge No. 328, Thompson, 50 years to Susquehanna Chapter No. 276, Temple Council No. 47 and 45 years to St. Andrews Commandery No. 27.

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With Bro. Robert H. Benson, seated, are Brothers Leslie J. Loomis, Fidelity Lodge No. 655; John W. Hawk, Joseph Warren Lodge No. 726; Jeffery D. Burman, W.M., Freedom Lodge No. 328; Charles L. Klingaman, Tamaqua Lodge No. 238; Nathan A. Foster, D.D.G.M-15th District; Keith J. Murray, Landmark Lodge No. 442; John P. Zickler, Carbondale Lodge No. 249; and F. Dean Lewis, Jr., Freedom Lodge.

Bro. Thomas F. Toscani, Melita Lodge No. 295, Philadelphia, received the 2009 “Great Friend to Kids Award” on Nov. 19, 2009, from the Please Touch Museum for his volunteerism benefitting children in Pennsylvania over the years. The award honors individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to enriching the lives of children. Recipients of Bro. Toscani’s benevolence include the Masonic Children’s Home in Elizabethtown, Special Olympics and the Junior Diabetes Foundation, among numerous others.

A coach, mentor, lawyer and energetic leader, Bro. Toscani is the driving force for numerous community organizations including the Berwyn Paoli Little League program and Field of Dreams complex.

Some Masonic Districts Will Be Eliminated & Realigned

Military Thank Lodges for Support

Bro. Edward A. Blum, Thomson Lodge No. 340; 1st Lt. Justin Cassidy; and Bro. Gary Dukeman, D.D.G.M.-5th Masonic District.

On Oct. 14, at the dinner preceding the Stated Meeting of Thomson Lodge No. 340, Paoli, 1st Lieutenant Justin N. Cassidy presented District Deputy Grand Master Gary L. Dukeman with a certificate of appreciation and an American flag that was flown over the company headquarters at Camp Taji, Iraq. The flag, which was also carried on combat missions, and the certificate were presented as tokens of appreciation for the “Change for the Troops” program.

The flag and certificate were presented to then-R. W. Grand Master Stephen Gardner at the December Quarterly Communication.

1st Lt. Cassidy, stepson of Bro. Edward D. Blum and one of the newest members of Thomson Lodge, along with Command Sgt. Major David W. White and Lt. Colonel Shawn C. Reger, were direct recipients of calling cards, as were all of the officers, non-commissioned officers and soldiers of the 2nd Squadron, 104th U.S. Cavalry, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team out of York, Pa. During the presentation, Lt. Cassidy stated that the soldiers truly appreciated everything that the people at home were doing for the troops and were especially appreciative of the Masons for the calling cards. It made being away from home and in a combat situation a little bit easier thanks to the Masons and the “Change for the Troops” program.

Brothers Paul A. Friedline and David N. Whysong, P.M., W.M., both of Bedford Lodge; Samuel Shimer, Hiram Lodge No. 616, Altoona; Benjamin J. Bullington, Bedford Lodge; Robert C. Snyder II, D.D.G.M. for the 34th Masonic District; and Wayne E. Felix, Chaplain, and Jeffrey Musselman, Junior Deacon, both of Bedford Lodge.

1LT Bro. Benjamin J. Bulllington and SFC Bro. Samuel Shimer, Platoon Leader and Platoon Sergeant, respectively, were deployed to Abu Ghraib in Northwest Baghdad, Iraq, with the 2-112th Infantry Stryker Platoon.

During their tour of duty, the brethren of Bedford Lodge No 320 organized and sent them care packages to acknowledge and support their service, and to let them know the folks back home were thinking of them.

Upon returning home, to show their appreciation to the brethren of the lodge, Brothers Bullington and Shimer attended the Stated Meeting of Bedford Lodge on Oct. 8 and presented an American flag and certificate to the Worshipful Master. The flag was flown over their headquarters in Iraq in honor of Bedford Lodge, and the certificate acknowledged and commemorated this.

Brethren Welcome in Tennessee On Sept. 19, 2009, Bro. Randall Kegerise; his three sons, Brothers Kim, Noel and Jon, and son-in-law, Bro. John C. McDonough, all of Ephrata Lodge No. 665, went to Tennessee to witness Randall’s son, Peter, receive the third degree in Freemasonry to become a member of Goodlettsville Lodge No. 271, Goodlettsville, TN. The R.W. Grand Master of Tennessee, the Rev. Dickie Johnson, conferred the degree, assisted by Grand Lodge officers and members of Goodlettsville Lodge. The Pennsylvania brethren were welcomed as Masonic brothers and treated to a dinner of catfish with all the trimmings – a wonderful experience!

Photo by Bro. Jesse N. Riggs, Grand Photographer of Lodge No. 271

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The Pennsylvania Freemason • January 2010 • Vol. LVII • No. 1

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21st Century Renaissance Changes to Freemasonry

A Masonic Congress Will Be Held in February 2010

The New Masonic Temple from Concept to Dedication 1865-1973 This is a summary of a paper presented by William L. Kingsbury, District Deputy Grand Master of Masonic District C and a Past Master of Melita Lodge No. 295, Philadelphia, to the Pennsylvania Lodge of Research. It is published in its entirety in Volume 3 of the Transactions of the Pennsylvania Lodge of Research.

The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia structure properly constructed, ornamented to pinnacle.” The Grand Lodge formed the is a wonderful gift, of which you and I, as and ventilated, “‘from turret to foundation “Building Committee” and empowered it Pennsylvania Masons, are the beneficiaries. stone,’ appropriate to the distinct purposes of to employ an architect, superintendent and This national historic landmark was the Order and containing a library with the workmen to erect the Masonic Temple. constructed through the painstaking efforts best literature and every book concerning On June 24, 1868, the cornerstone of the of our predecessors, notwithstanding daunting the Masonic Fraternity, and conversation and New Masonic Temple was laid with impressive financial risks, upon the fraternal assurance reading rooms.”

Masonic ceremonies. Grand Master Vaux said: that future generations would preserve it for After investigating numerous potential “…The Temple we propose to erect … will their successors with the same selfless spirit sites, the committee was authorized to stand, as a refuge and a fortress of the Craft, and ambitious resolve with which they built it. purchase the lots comprising the present site of like a great rock in a weary land. In its hallowed

Prior to the construction of the Masonic the Masonic Temple at a price not exceeding enclosure the light of Masonry will ever Temple, the headquarters of the Grand Lodge $155,000. In December 1867, the committee illumine those who seek virtue and knowledge was the Chestnut Street Masonic Hall, which proudly reported that it had consummated the ... Within this Temple our successors will was dedicated on Sept. 26, 1855. Within a purchase of the “solid lot of ground bounded assemble to work the same work we have decade, however, it became obsolete, lacking by Broad, Juniper, Filbert and Cuthbert performed as our fathers before us have done adequate space for lodge purposes and having Streets, for the use of the Grand Lodge.” in their day and generation.” But the Building chronic flooding problems in the basement The total purchase price was $153,000, Committee would face a number of challenges apartments. In addition, portions of the $2,000 less than the amount authorized. The in connection with the construction of the Chestnut Street Masonic Hall were leased committee felt that such difference would be Masonic Temple. Contractors failed to perform for commercial and residential purposes, and sufficient to demolish the existing structures as expected. In some cases, suppliers were late it was the desire of Pennsylvania Masons to and improve the site for construction. The in delivering materials and, in other cases, they construct a Masonic Temple to be used solely Finance Committee remarked in its report delivered the wrong materials. Unfavorable for Masonic purposes. that the lot purchased by the Grand Lodge was weather delayed the construction schedule

At the Quarterly Grand Communication “far superior to any other in this City, both in in the early years. In 1868, in connection in June 1865, the Grand Lodge appointed a the beauty of its location and in the facility of with the excavation of the foundation for the committee to consider purchasing a lot “suitable approach.”

North Tower, workers hit the “worst kind of for the erection of a Hall commensurate with The committee requested proposals from quicksand” causing the foundation to be set the wants of the Fraternity.” It envisioned a “some of the most skillful architects, to furnish at a depth of 31 feet, rather than 18 feet as plans, specifications, and estimates” for the planned.

Masonic Temple. After thorough review, the Funding the project was another committee unanimously recommended and challenge. To pay for the construction, the the Grand Lodge approved the plan proposed Grand Lodge increased membership dues, the

by Bro. James H. Windrim. Grand Master price of dispensations to pass the chair and the Richard Vaux gave his enthusiastic approval of rental cost for the rooms at the Chestnut Street the project: “It was a unanimous declaration of Hall. It was hoped the revenues generated by the Craft in Pennsylvania that such an edifice these actions, and the proceeds derived from should be built as would be in harmony with the sale of “New Masonic Temple Bonds” the history, character, increasing influence and and the Chestnut Street Masonic Hall would high position of Freemasonry in Pennsylvania. provide the revenue necessary to carry out The Subordinate Lodges have cheerfully the project. But these sources alone proved consented to contribute all that has been insufficient. To the dismay of the Committee on asked of them for this purpose. Let us have Finance, the Building Committee nevertheless then a New Temple for Pennsylvania, which charged headlong into the construction despite expresses, in the language of architecture, the significant deficits in the construction budget. historic origin of our Order ... Let us have a While the Committee on Finance called for Temple on which the student, the scholar an abrupt cessation of the work, the Building and the craftsman from all nations and of all Committee awarded contracts for materials tongues may look and learn its purpose, and and services. The controversy between the understand its origin, proclaimed by every Committee on Finance and the Building word of its architectural language, from porch Committee was ultimately resolved on the

Masonic Youth Initiatives Will Be Supported by Lodges floor of the Grand Lodge: The Grand Lodge determined to proceed with the ambitious construction schedule while aggressively raising the necessary funds through the sale to Masons and non-Masons of restructured, market-rate “New Masonic Temple Bonds.”

In order to do this, Bro. Richard Vaux led a successful lobbying effort for special legislation to remove the below market interest rate cap on such private bond financings.

Finances remained tight throughout the construction. At the June 4, 1873 Quarterly Grand Communication, the Committee on Finance requested permission to collect rents from the Subordinate Lodges still meeting at the Chestnut Street Masonic Hall quarterly, rather than annually, stating that without such permission, the Grand Lodge would fail to have the means to pay the semi-annual interest payments on the New Masonic Temple Bonds.

The records of the Trustees of the Building Fund reflect that it had received $1,566,912.82, of which $1,385,425 was from the issuance of the New Masonic Temple Bonds, $35,544.84 was from interest earned on temporary investments and $1,256.16 was from the sale of old materials. It had expended a total of $1,559,793.53, of which $156,793 was for the lot, $1,390,018.14 was for construction related expenses, $9,061.45 was for interest payable to the Grand Lodge, $3,750 was for brokerage commissions and $170.79 was for Trust related expenses. The Grand Lodge Charity Fund, the Steven Girard Trust and

the Grand Lodge Sinking Fund all invested in the New Masonic Temple Bonds, as did 61 Subordinate Lodges, the Grand Chapter, 20 Mark Lodges, Chapters and Encampments, 42 lodges of “kindred societies,” The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company and 330 individuals.

Of the individual owners, 88 were women and 218 were men. The largest individual owner of the Bonds was not a Mason, neither were many others among the largest individual investors, evidencing “a degree of confidence in the credit of Masonic institutions scarcely to have been expected from the outside world.”

The last of the New Masonic Temple Bonds were redeemed in 1908. The Grand Lodge managed the debt carefully and never failed to make an interest payment.

The Masonic Temple was dedicated on Sept. 26, 1873, with lavish ceremonies including and an impressive Masonic procession.

The Building Committee gave its final report at the Annual Grand Communication on Dec. 27, 1873, by sharing its wish that: “[T] he Temple may long stand as a monument of the strength, stability, prosperity and energy of the Craft in Pennsylvania; and that enriched, from time to time as opportunity and resources may allow, with decorative adornments and works of art, it may become more beautiful and attractive from year to year; and as a centre and home for the association of the Craft to cluster about with cheering memories of pleasure and profit had within its walls.”

We have been good stewards of the

Masonic Temple. We have kept the building and its mechanical apparatus in good condition and repair. We have shunned the fads that caused other institutions with ornate buildings to paint over their murals and frescos. We have preserved the artistic and symbolic significance of the Masonic Temple. We have overcome disturbances associated with the connection of the Pennsylvania and Reading Railroads underneath the foundation, and the demolition and construction on adjacent properties. The Masonic Temple is still used for the Masonic purposes for which it was intended.

The detailed records of the transactions of the Building Committee were diligently kept “so that, should the occasion present, they may at any future time be referred to without difficulty.” And so they remain, reminders to us all, to honor that covenant of trust that our predecessors confidently confided in our care when making these great sacrifices and assuming these great risks. Let us cherish the Masonic Temple of which we are the stewards and custodians and preserve it for our successors and for the Masonic purposes for which it was dedicated.

If you have not yet visited the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia, bring your family and friends for a tour! Call (215) 988-1917 for more information.

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The Pennsylvania Freemason • January 2010 • Vol. LVII • No. 1

21st Century Renaissance Changes to Freemasonry

The Dress Code for Masonic Meetings is Relaxed

Junior Citizens of Our Great Country It was a warm September night when we entered the lodge in anticipation of initiating three new young members into our DeMolay chapter. Following the initiation, we moved to the dining room to celebrate and welcome our new brothers. One of the young boys, Bobby, approached me and posed an unexpected question that I rarely heard from new initiates.

“Excuse me, is being a DeMolay patriotic?” he asked quietly.

“Of course,” I replied without hesitation and continued on to tell him the stories of our founding fathers. “George Washington and Benjamin Franklin were both Freemasons and were major contributors to our newly established nation. And we, as DeMolay, are like junior members of Freemasonry.”

“What can I do in DeMolay to be patriotic?” was his next inquiry.

I took a deep breath while I collected my thoughts.

“Patriotism is knowing your national anthem and respecting our flag, and realizing that countless men and women gave their lives so that our freedom could remain a reality. It also means giving back to those less fortunate through community service, which is a great way to help others. Our chapter has helped out The Salvation Army by packing food baskets and Christmas stockings for needy boys and girls who would go without presents at Christmas without our help.

There are many military families who receive these gifts during the holiday season.”

By now I was sure that he would lose interest in what I had to say, yet he remained fixated on my every word, so I continued.

“Voting in every elective opportunity is being patriotic, as the right to vote is one freedom many people have given their lives for and should never be taken for granted.” Even though he did not yet have a job, I went on to explain that having a strong work ethic and remaining honest, trustworthy and reverent were all part of being a

patriotic citizen. “Being patriotic means being a law-abiding citizen and taking an active role in politics to ensure that American freedoms are never breached. Standing up for what is right and protesting unjust laws in order to make our country a better place to live is the duty of every American.”

“Is that all there is?” he asked, though his tone indicated he was eager to hear more. So I went on.

“Patriotism also means fighting for our freedoms and ensuring that nobody can take them away. It means supporting our veterans and saying ‘thank you’ for all of the sacrifices they have made for us and for our country.” I went on to explain about Operation Standdown, where we collect food for homeless and disabled veterans, and what a great project it was.

“It’s important to support our troops and let them know how much we appreciate what they are doing. Sending care packages is a great way to reach out to our soldiers overseas and let them know that we are thinking about them. Patriotism means being willing to stand up and fight to protect America and giving our support to our troops who are fighting now so that we can continue to live with the freedoms that we enjoy.”

Bobby quickly responded with, “Can I even be a Marine?”

I smiled and told him, “Of course you can. Serving your country is absolutely the most patriotic thing that you can do.”

“So those are all ways to be a patriotic person, Bobby,” I finished.

He smiled and thanked me for taking the time to answer his question before retreating back to his parents. A grin spread across my face as I noticed the bright red, white, and blue bunting that hung from several tables and the small American flags that adorned every centerpiece display. We must always remain patriotic, I thought. We owe it to those who gave their lives; we owe it… to our country.

Jonathan Webster resides in Langhorne, Pa. He attends Bucks County Community College full-time and works part-time in the Dietary Department of St. Mary Medical Center. He is an Eagle Scout and a member of Somerton Chapter, Order of DeMolay, who is very active in community service, donating over 400 hours a year to The Salvation Army and St. Mary’s Healing Environments Project and the Wellness/Rehabilitation Center. Jonathan is also an avid juggler and bicyclist.

PA Job’s Daughters Honored with Supreme Positions At the Supreme Session of Job’s Daughters International held in Richmond, Va., two Pennsylvania Job’s Daughters delegates were chosen to serve as an officer and a representative to the Supreme Bethel. Katherine Price, who is the current Miss Job’s Daughter of PA, will be serving as Supreme Bethel Custodian. Cecile Madonna, who is reigning as the Mary Etta Wright Grand Bethel Honored Queen in PA, will be serving as the Supreme Bethel Representative to Mato Grasso Do Sul in Brazil.

Both girls are members of Bethel #15, of Elizabethtown. They will hold these positions until the next Supreme Session in August 2010, which will be convened in Colorado Springs, Colo. As members of the Supreme Bethel, these two young ladies will be part of a team of only 86 Daughters who represent their fellow members from all over the world.

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Open Installations of all Symbolic Lodge Officers

Veterans Youth Dance The current and past District Deputy Grand Masters of Region One sponsored a Veterans Day Dance for Masonic Youth and their friends on Nov. 14, 2009, at the Tacony Masonic Temple in Philadelphia. More than 65 members of DeMolay, Rainbow Girls and Job’s Daughters and their prospective members attended the dance in celebration of our nation’s veterans, along with 30 adult leaders, volunteers and parents.

Everyone enjoyed the music courtesy of “Dad” Fred Wichterman of Friendship Bray Chapter. Philadelphia hoagies, pizza and soft drinks were in abundance as participants danced the evening away.

Since the event was close to Halloween, members were encouraged to come in costume, and many donned military uniforms in honor of the theme.

An essay contest was conducted at the same time, with a general theme of how Masonic Youth can show their patriotism.

Bro. Jonathan Webster of Somerton Chapter took first place with a thoughtful and meaningful essay (see p. 26). With winter approaching, used coats were collected for distribution to homeless veterans.

Seen in attendance were: Danielle Dunmire, Grand Worthy Advisor of PA Rainbow, from Throop, Pa.; Bro. Howard Wagner, DeMolay State Master Councilor, from Butler; Bro. Matthew Blaisdell, State Junior Councilor, from Wrightsville, Pa.; and Bro. Wesley Munns, State Master Councilor from New Jersey.

(Above) Yep… kids… actually dancing.

(Left) Danielle Dunmire, Grand Worthy Advisor, models her father’s naval uniform (Bro. Keith Dunmire, P.M., Kingsbury Lodge No. 466).

Masonic Blood Donor Club Supports New DeMolay Chapter On Nov. 11, 2009, Tyler Bausinger, the first member of the new Delaware Valley Chapter, Fairless Hills, attended a Masonic Blood Donor Collection event in Bensalem. Since this was Veteran’s Day, Tyler was there to greet and hand out U.S. Flags to donors as they arrived to donate blood. This very successful blood drive collected 52 pints of blood.

Three days later, at the Masonic Youth Veterans Dance, “Dad” Chuck Lankert and “Dad” Tom Barton received a donation of $520 for the new Chapter from the Masonic Blood and Organ Donor Club in recognition of the Chapter’s support of this blood collection event.

Blood Donor Chairman Edward Budman of Masonic District “D” made the presentation. Bro. Budman went on to explain that Masonic Youth Group participation in blood collection events is important. He explained that for each unit of blood collected, three lives can be saved.

Masonic Youth Groups who support and participate in blood collection events can receive a donation of $10 per unit of blood collected from the Masonic Blood and Organ Donor Club, if designated as the recipient by the sponsoring lodge.

Scholarships Available More than $40,000 was given out in 2009 by the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation through its Educational Endowment Fund. In 2010, it is estimated that between 30 and 35 students will be selected to receive awards ranging from $1,000 to $3,000, and including multi-year awards. The annual program runs through March 15, 2010, when applications may be submitted.

The Masonic Scholarship Resource Guide for the 2010 program and the 2010 application are now available online at www.pmyf.org or may be obtained by writing to:

PMYF SCHOLARSHIPS

1244 Bainbridge Road, Elizabethtown, Pa 17022

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The Pennsylvania Freemason • January 2010 • Vol. LVII • No. 1

21st Century Renaissance Changes to Freemasonry

A New Due Process for Suspensions & Expulsions

Masonic Villages’

2010

Wish List Items The items on the Masonic Villages’ Wish List serve the needs of residents across the state. Contributions to support these needs will bring physical aid and comfort to residents daily. For further information, please call the Office of Gift Planning at (800) 599-6454.

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Qty. Capital Need Masonic Children’s Home 40 Mattresses 3 Outside doors 5 Counter tops – cottages 3 Kitchen floors – cottages 4 Foyer floors – cottages 3 Front doors – cottages 4 Blinds – cottages Bi-fold doors 2 Solar panel water heater – cottages 5 Computer – cottages 40 Lamps Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Channel 18 5 Big screen TVs and brackets 1 Snoozelen room 1 Nature reserve (outside Assembly Room) 5 Broda chairs 3 Furniture for balconies 10 Heated massage chairs 4 Piano keyboards (digital) 10 Spa whirlpools 14 Refrigerators 14 Dishes and kitchen items 1 It’s Never 2 Late (therapy program) 1 Pulse oximeter 80 Linen tablecloths (6-foot) 3 Bariatric beds and equipment 31 Specialty wheelchairs 24 Specialty wheelchair cushions 2 Wii video game systems 14 Dishwashers 3 Blanket warmers 2 Rock and Go gliders 49 Ceiling panels-resident rooms Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill 5 Apartment patio doors 1 ID card printer Plants/planters 1 It’s Never 2 Late (therapy program) 1 Mechanical lift 1 Sit to stand lift, power base 1 Portable hydration cart 1 Portable digital wheelchair scale 70 Bed spreads 1 Van with lift Masonic Village at Sewickley 2 Advent banners 2 Christmas banners Lenten/Easter paraments 2 Brass Advent wreaths 2 Christ candles 2 Candle sets 2 Outdoor tents (20’ by 20’) Touchtown digital TV upgrade 1 All-in-one music system Masonic Village at Warminster 34 Mattresses Automatic door opener 20 Lounge chairs 2 Fully electric beds

Cost per Item Total Cost $200 $400 $2,296 $509 $129 $400 $500 $848 $8,750 $745 $50

$8,000 $1,200 $11,480 $1,527 $516 $1,200 $2,000 $848 $17,500 $3,725 $2,000

$25,000 $2,000 $10,000 $10,000 $2,100 $1,000 $2,000 $3,000 $20,000 $750 $500 $24,000 $100 $12 $5,000 $1,481 $500 $500 $500 $400 $3,000 $215

$25,000 $10,000 $10,000 $10,000 $10,500 $3,000 $20,000 $12,000 $200,000 $10,500 $7,000 $24,000 $100 $972 $15,000 $45,911 $12,000 $1,000 $7,000 $1,200 $6,000 $10,535

$3,000 $11,300 $24,000 $5,300 $3,500 $550 $2,000 $80 $45,000

$15,000 $11,300 $3,375 $24,000 $5,300 $3,500 $550 $2,000 $5,600 $45,000

$149 $149 $380 $350 $195 $24 $1,800 $5,300 $500

$298 $298 $380 $700 $390 $48 $3,600 $5,300 $500

$332 $2,000 $150 $1,400

$11,288 $2,000 $3,000 $2,800

The Legal Structure of the Grand Lodge Will Be Assessed

Bleiler Caring Cottage: Offering Fulfillment & Opportunity “It’s a nice house. Everybody here is nice. We’re like a family and everybody gets along. I’m thankful for being here.” ~ Kevin Koch, resident.

The Bleiler Caring Cottage, located on the campus of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, provides support services, growth opportunities and loving attention for residents with mild to moderate developmental disabilities. This nurturing home, which has been completely remodeled including all new flooring and paint, a new kitchen and new furniture, currently has two openings.

Personalized services are offered 24 hours a day, seven days a week for residents and include accommodations, three nutritious meals, social and recreational programs, transportation and assistance with activities of daily living.

The staff embrace a holistic approach to providing exceptional care for the mind, body and spirit. Supervised activities are arranged with the adults’ developmental goals in mind to recognize their talents and explore their creativity. Residents are also encouraged to seek out their own interests and career opportunities within the local community, as they desire.

If you or anyone you know has a loved one who is 18 years or older and may be looking for a caring home for his or her special needs, or would like additional information about this unique program, please call the Outreach Program at (800) 462-7664.

Residential Living Availability: Enjoying the Simple Life At this time, Residential Living has immediate openings offering a variety of floor plan selections, including studio, married couple suite and single deluxe accommodations (which include a living room, bedroom, bathroom and in select units, a kitchenette). Unique to the Elizabethtown campus, Residential Living offers an independent, apartment-style setting with all the comforts of home, but without the hassle of meal preparation.

Residents enjoy three meals daily, including a buffet breakfast and supper, as well as a restaurant-style mid-day meal (à la carte). In addition to meals, a variety of modern conveniences are included in the daily room rate: twice monthly housekeeping services, all utilities (except phone and cable), on-campus shuttle transportation, a wide variety of activities and social events, outpatient medical services and emergency assistance available 24 hours a day. If a resident should require additional medical care in the future, the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown offers both personal and nursing care options.

If you have any questions or would be interested in a tour or application, contact the Admissions Department at (800) 422-1207

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown now offers NEW services for residents:

Home Care services Extension 33700 Hospice Services Extension 18449 Call (717) 367-1121 and dial extension or visit www.masonicvillages.com/elizabethtown

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The Pennsylvania Freemason • January 2010 • Vol. LVII • No. 1

21st Century Renaissance Changes to Freemasonry

Electronic Guide Will Provide Tours of the Masonic Temple

Personal, Convenient & Carefree!

The Masonic Villages offer accommodations and services customized for your personal preferences and needs. Whether it is a two-bedroom/ den cottage/villa, with a garage or two-bedroom apartment with a breezy balcony, seemingly limitless recreational opportunities or health care services readily available, the Masonic Villages provide an ideal place to enjoy your retirement years.

The Masonic Village at Dallas features one-bedroom and twobedroom apartments and villas. Enjoy an on-site golf course, fitness center and country club dining, as well as lifelong learning, wellness and leisure opportunities at nearby Misericordia University. Should you require it, access to health care services is available through our preferred health care partner, Mercy Center, other local providers and any other Masonic Village location. With our new Guaranteed Appreciation Plan which guarantees appreciation on your original payment, and our Apartment Rental Fees starting at just $897 per month, Masonic Village at Dallas offers many great options for a great price. For more information, call (866) 851-4243.

The Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s Sycamore Apartments are available in one and two-bedroom and two-bedroom/den models. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in numerous activities ranging from a Penn State Club to day trips, as well as access to health care services if needed. This 100-year-old community offers modern amenities supported by a tradition of caring.

Concerned about selling your home in the current market? The Masonic Village at Elizabethtown has teamed up with the John Smith Real Estate Group who will help you not only sell your home, but do so at a reduced commission, passing the savings on to you. Our Marketing Staff

also provide services at little or no cost which help residents transition into their new homes. Among other conveniences, you’ll receive one-on-one counseling, a financial review to match your resources with your unit of preference, flexible payment options and ample time to sell your house.

For more information, call (800) 676-6452.

The Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill’s newly renovated retirement living apartments provide spacious living with access to on-site health care services should you need them. Stay close to home and enjoy numerous social and recreational opportunities or visit downtown Philadelphia, located only 30 minutes away. For more information, call (610) 828-5760.

The Masonic Village at Sewickley features apartments and villas in a variety of floor plans. Options abound on the 55-acre campus, ranging from a wellness center to intergenerational programs to volunteer opportunities.

If needed, health care services are available on campus. As an added benefit, this Lifecare community protects your assets after you become a resident. For more information, call (866) 872-0664.

Vi s i t u s o n l i n e a t w w w. masonicvillagespa.org to view floor plans and a Cost of Living worksheet which demonstrates how you can save money by moving to a Masonic Village.

R.W. Grand Master Thomas Sturgeon and his wife, Joan, Invite You to Attend a

Masonic Reunion

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

Highlights

• Information on services provided by the Masonic Villages of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania • Celebrate a Century of Service with the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown and learn highlights of this community’s rich history and about upcoming events to commemorate its Centennial • Exciting updates on the Masonic Village at Dallas, including the opening of the NEW Irem Shrine Center and Clubhouse; renovations at the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill; the new Sycamore Apartments and Sycamore Square Marketplace at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown; and renovations to the personal care and nursing care residences at the Masonic Village at Sewickley • Representatives from the Office of Aging to share information on local services • Free blood pressure screenings

Special Highlight

Grand Master Sturgeon will present 50-Year, 60-Year and 70-Year Masonic Service Emblems and 75-Year Diamond Jubilee Awards. He will also preview upcoming programs. Look for your invitation in early January. If you have any questions, please contact the Masonic Villages at (717) 367-1121, ext. 33849. Don’t forget to R.S.V.P. by Friday, Jan. 29, 2010!

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Reunion Schedule

Thursday, March 18, 2010 Tampa Airport Marriott Hotel, Tampa Friday, March 19, 2010 Sahib Shrine Center (Sahib Temple), Sarasota Saturday, March 20, 2010 Palm Beach Gardens Marriott, Palm Beach Each reunion features a reception (11-11:45 a.m.) followed by lunch (11:45 a.m.) and a program (1-2 p.m.)

Handling Epidemics Then & Now Masonic Village 100th Anniversary

1910-2010

because no [Masonic Village residents] died 1910-2010 from the influenza ELIZABETHTOWN, PA epidemic.

“Masonic Village handled the 1918 epidemic well,” Joyce Heisey, R.N., assistant director of nursing/infection control, said. “We use all the same practices today to control the spread of a contagious illness,” Heisey said. “This kind of medical care was probably very limited in availability in 1918, so it was a great service to offer out to the community rather than people remaining at home where they received minimal, if any, medical care.”

In the 21st century, Masonic Villages has additional tools such as gloves, surgical masks and alcohol-based hand sanitizers to prevent the spread of viruses, and medications to prevent infection or lessen symptoms. The development of antibiotics to treat complications of influenza has helped to increase survival rates. Masonic Villages offers free seasonal flu vaccines and recommends all residents, employees and volunteers receive the shot annually.

Education and communication have also reduced the spread of infection.

“We spend quite a bit of time providing education for residents and staff about preventative measures,” Heisey said. “The Internet is a huge tool to help us connect with the Centers for Disease Control and the Department of Health for current spread of the disease, updated recommendations and more.”

Despite the best preventative measures, some degree of illness is unavoidable.

“We are also becoming better and more knowledgeable about surveillance for signs and symptoms of infectious illness, and therefore, are able to put interventions in place more quickly,” Heisey said. Masonic Village can now test individuals for influenza A or B and send the tests for genetic typing to more specifically identify the influenza strain, allowing healthcare providers to use the most effective antiviral medication.

When it comes to a fast-spreading infectious disease, if multiple residents on a unit suffer from the same ailment, medical professionals still resort to many of the same 1918 practices – namely, the unit is closed, which generally means visitors are asked to stay home, and residents remain on their floor.

Group activities may be put on hold or conducted on smaller scales. Residents with the illness receive meals in their rooms, while the others may eat in the dining room. Units are usually reopened 48 to 72 hours after residents stop exhibiting symptoms. Providing high quality and compassionate care and services remain top priorities.

The Masonic Villages’ plan for the H1N1 virus in residents remains largely the same as its procedures for other influenza viruses, with a few minor changes. “Our employees are considered high risk, so precautions are focused on that population,” Heisey said. Most seniors have developed some level of immunity to the H1N1 virus, most likely because a similar strain of flu spread in the 1950s, so residents have built up a level of immunity to it.

The Masonic Villages is constantly combining its 100 years of history with new knowledge and tools to provide revolutionary care. If you would like to read interesting stories similar to this one, look for the release of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s history book on June 25, 2010.

ELIZABETHTOWN, PA

The Masonic Village at Elizabethtown has been providing caring services since 1910. In celebration of its centennial anniversary, the Masonic Village will release a coffee-table style history book to share how Pennsylvania Freemasons from all generations dedicated themselves to creating a premier community to care for fellow Masons, their family members and the community. The following is just one of many interesting stories uncovered while researching the community’s extensive history.

The annual flu season is in full swing and has centered around the 2009 H1N1 influenza or “swine flu.” The World Health Organization has deemed it a pandemic influenza infection, and President Obama has declared it a national emergency. But this isn’t the first time the world has been plagued with influenza, nor is it the first time the Masonic Village has planned specific measures to stop the spread of the virus.

Since the inception of the Masonic Village in 1902, the community was intended to provide the highest degree of compassionate care possible. Inherent to this mission is enacting programs and policies that are revolutionary for their time, which is part of the reason Masonic Village has always planned ahead with procedures in place to handle outbreaks.

In 1918, the Masonic Village was an eight-year-old community with about 310 residents. The village consisted of four main residential buildings; two renovated homes for children; and the one-wing Philadelphia Freemasons’ Memorial Hospital. Despite its relatively small size and young age, the Masonic Village had a lasting impact on the community and fraternity that year, as the following excerpt from the Masonic Village’s history book describes: As the war came to a close, people began catching the flu in pockets around the world. The first plague in the spring of 1918 only affected a few people, but when the disease surfaced again that fall, its effects devastated the world. Some people died within hours of contracting the disease. With soldiers trekking across battlefields and returning home, the virus spread rapidly.

Worldwide, one-fifth of the population suffered from the influenza outbreak to some extent, and one-fourth of Americans contracted it. The disease ran rampant among all age groups and regions. While about 16 million people died in World War I, the virus killed an estimated 50 million people. The average life expectancy in America dropped 12 years within 12 months.

The influenza epidemic struck the Elizabethtown area as severely as other locations. In a grand gesture of service to the community, doctors transferred the Masonic [residents] without influenza from the hospital to the Grand Lodge Hall Infirmary and opened the hospital to community members with influenza. Under the care of the Red Cross of Elizabethtown, influenza-stricken community members streamed into the hospital. “This became a splendid asylum for the sorely stricken families of the vicinity who had no place else to go,” the Committee on Masonic Homes reported in 1918. Doctors only admitted influenza victims into the hospital to quarantine the sufferers and prevent the spread of the virus. During the several months the hospital took patients from the community, 82 people with no Masonic affiliation received the best treatment possible.

At the same time, guards stood post at the boulevards leading to the [Masonic Village] to quarantine the entire area. This security kept [residents] in and others out; no one could pass without written consent. At the time, many of the employees lived in housing at the Masonic [Village]. While internal church services continued, after August 24, the committee reported no more activities at the [Masonic Village].

While these precautions may have made life less interesting, they saved lives,

Masonic Village100th Anniversary

New Software Will Simplify the Lodge Audit Process

31

Increase Your Retirement Income

Did you know you can make a gift to one of the Masonic Charities of the R.W. Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and actually increase your retirement income? If you have CDs that are maturing and you are reluctant to take out another one because of the low rates, a Charitable Gift Annuity may be for you.

Consider the attractive gift annuity rates listed on the table below. For a minimum gift of $5,000 you can receive income for life. What’s more, because a gift annuity is irrevocable, you will receive a federal income tax deduction, receive a portion of your payments tax-free for a period of time and receive satisfaction in the knowledge that you have provided a gift that will strengthen and enhance the important work of the Masonic Charity you have selected, making a difference in the lives of others.

Depending on your circumstances, you may find a gift annuity to be an ideal way for you to realize important personal, as well as charitable, objectives.

For more personalized information regarding the benefits of a gift annuity, at no cost or obligation, please contact the Gift Planner in the geographical area nearest you:

Sample Gift Annuity Rates One-Life

Two-Life

Age

Rate

Ages

Rate

70

5.7%

70 & 75

5.3%

75

6.3%

75 & 80

5.8%

80

7.1%

80 & 85

6.5%

85

8.1%

85 & 90

7.5%

90+

9.5%

Central Pennsylvania (717) 367-1121, ext. 33437 or (800) 599-6454 Eastern Pennsylvania (610) 825-6100, ext. 1348 Western Pennsylvania (412) 741-1400, ext. 3011 or (866) 872-0664 Out-of-State (717) 367-1121, ext. 33312 or (800) 599-6454

Complete and mail this form to:

Office of Gift Planning, Masonic Charities, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022  Please send me information on how I/we can join the Franklin Legacy Society.  Please send me information on how I can remember one of the Masonic Charities Financial information about Masonic Charities can be obtained by contacting us at 1-800-599-6454. In addition, Masonic Charities is required to file financial information with several states. Colorado: Colorado residents may obtain copies of registration and financial documents from the office of the Secretary of State, (303) 894-2680, http://www.sos.state.co.us/. Florida: SC No. 00774, A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE, WITHIN THE STATE, 1-800-HELP-FLA. Georgia: full and fair description of the programs and activities of Masonic Charities and its financial statement are available upon request at the address indicated above.

Illinois: Contracts and reports regarding Masonic Charities are on file with the Illinois Attorney General. Maryland: For the cost of postage and copying, documents and information filed under the Maryland charitable organizations laws can be obtained from the Secretary of State, Charitable Division, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401, (800) 825-4510. Michigan: MICS No. 11796 Mississippi: The official registration and financial information of Masonic Charities may be obtained from the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office by calling 1-888236-6167. New Jersey: INFORMATION FILED WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL CONCERNING THIS CHARITABLE SOLICITATION AND THE PERCENTAGE OF CONTRIBUTIONS RECEIVED BY THE CHARITY DURING THE LAST REPORTING PERIOD THAT WERE DEDICATED TO THE CHARITABLE PURPOSE MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE ATTORNEY GENERAL BY CALLING (973) 504-6215 AND IS AVAILABLE ON THE INTERNET AT www.njconsumeraffairs. gov/ocp.htm#charity. REGISTRATION WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT. New York: A copy of the latest annual report can be obtained from the organization or from the Office of the Attorney General by writing the Charities Bureau, 120 Broadway, New York, NY 10271. North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 1-888-830-4989. Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of Masonic Charities may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free, within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Virginia: Financial statements are available from the State Office of Consumer Affairs, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23218. Washington: The notice of solicitation required by the Charitable Solicitation Act is on file with the Washington Secretary of State, and information relating to financial affairs of Masonic Charities is available from the Secretary of State, and the toll-free number for Washington residents: 1-800-332-4483. West Virginia: West Virginia residents may obtain a summary of the registration and financial documents from the Secretary of State, State Capitol, Charleston, WV 25305. REGISTRATION IN THE ABOVE STATES DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION OF MASONIC CHARITIES BY THE STATE.

in my/our will or trust. P lease let me/us know our rate, income and other benefits from a Masonic Charities Charitable Gift Annuity. (There is no obligation.) Send me a benefits illustration using the following information: My age ___________ My spouse’s age ___________(if a two-life annuity) Amount(s) $ __________________ ($5,000 minimum) If you are considering using appreciated stock for a gift annuity, estimate your cost basis in dollars or percent._____________________________________________ Name:___________________________________________________________________________ Address:________________________________________________________________________ City:_ _________________________________ State:_________ Zip:_______________________ Telephone: ( )________________________________________________________________ E-mail Address:_________________________________________________________________