The Pennsylvania Freemason - May 2020

THE PENNSYLVANIA

VOL. LXVII, NO. 2

MAY 2020

Brethren Use Their Time & Talents to Give Back

THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON® VOL. LXVII, MAY 2020, NO. 2

©2020 The R.W. Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Pennsylvania EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman Thomas Gamon, IV, R.W.G.M. Jeffrey M. Wonderling, R.W.D.G.M. Larry A. Derr, R.W.S.G.W. Robert D. Brink, R.W.J.G.W. Adam C. Heese, R.W.G.T. Mark A. Haines, R.W.G.S. EDITORIAL STAFF Tina L. Lutter - Production Coordinator Rich Johnson - Graphic Designer Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation Staff Masonic Library & Museum of Pennsylvania Staff (Publication No. USPS 426-140) May 2020 Issue of The Pennsylvania Freemason® Published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Articles and photographs to be considered for publication should be sent with local Masonic authority to the address above, to the attention of The Pennsylvania Freemason® or emailed to pafreemason@masonicvillages.org. Except by special arrangement, all articles, photographs and artwork become the property of the Grand Lodge.

Published by the Masonic Villages, owned and operated by the Grand Lodge of F. & A. M. of Pennsylvania, as a means of soliciting the physical and financial support of the members, their families and the public in general. Periodical postage is 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.

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP (Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United States Code) May 2020, 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 Gamon, IV. Owner: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania.

Known bondholders: none. No advertising handled. Free distribution averages 124,000 each quarter. I certify that the statements made by me are correct and complete.

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Freemasonry Today

Grand Master’s Message • Upcoming Events • Pursuing Operational Excellence and Stewardship • How Helping Another Helped Me • Random Acts of Kindness • Library Honors Coy Legacy

10 Membership

From Combat Vet to Advocate • Making a Difference One Ride at a Time • Sing Us a Song ... For Charity • Brother Offers Financial Expertise to Those in Need • Wreaths Remember the Fallen

20 Philanthropy

Masonic Temple Celebrates 200 Years of Rush Statues • Masonic Blood + Organ Donor Program Encourages Platelet and Plasma Donations • Masonic Charities Annual Report • Your Youth Foundation is Still Serving! • Mount Joy Assembly Forms • HODEGOS Award Recipients • DeMolay: More than Just a Fraternity Campaign • Board Member Feature • Giving Back to the Fraternity that Shaped Him • Now is the Time to Plan Your Stress-free Future • Do You Know a Child Or Family in Need? • Masonic Villages’ 2020 Wish List

Thomas Gamon, IV, Editor

Cover photo by Carrie Whetsell Photography

Mailing address changes If your address on the back cover of this magazine is not exactly as you have provided it to us, please be aware that addresses are modified through the various mailing process requirements required by the U.S. Postal Service. If you have any questions or would like to inform us of a change in address, please contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800599-6454 or giving@masonicvillages.org.

Postmaster: Send address changes to:

The Pennsylvania Freemason®, c/o Masonic Village, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022-2199.

View the magazine online! pagrandlodge.org

If you would prefer to receive an electronic version of the magazine for your convenience and/or to save the fraternity printing and mailing costs, please make your request by emailing pafreemason@masonicvillages.org. An electronic version of the magazine is also available online at www.pagrandlodge.org.

Save a Tree

Brethren, While I know we all look forward to returning to our lodges, planned events, service projects and fellowship, I also have seen firsthand the severity of this virus in my role as fire chief. As it continues to spread, my concern for the health of our brethren and their families remains paramount, which is why I made the difficult decision to extend the suspension of all Masonic events across the state until June 1, 2020.

Believe me, I’m just as disappointed as everyone else. The past few months have been extremely challenging as we have had to dramatically change our lifestyles due to COVID-19. Not only have we had to cancel our fraternal events as part of the mandated quarantine, but families have been impacted by business and school closures, layoffs and the inability to acquire adequate supplies and groceries.

For some, isolation and fear have caused depression and anxiety.

As challenging as this time is, it is also an opportunity to shine our Masonic light by looking out for our fellow brethren, their families and widows, and offering assistance while taking all precautions for safety. Remember, many people are lonely, so please reach out via phone, text, social media, video chat or other means to simply let them know you’re thinking about them.

There are incredible things happening during this national healthcare crisis.

I have encouraged brethren who may have supplies that healthcare providers can use to protect themselves to sell or donate them to local hospitals, urgent care centers or nursing homes to help provide protection during this national crisis.

If you know of brethren contributing efforts to fight COVID-19, whether it be as healthcare providers, as part of a business that provides essential supplies/ personal protective

equipment, or through efforts to care for those in need, we would love to hear about it so we can include these stories in the next issue of The Pennsylvania Freemason.

Rather than focus on what we can’t do, I’d prefer to focus on what we can do. While our in-person meetings have been suspended, many of our lodges are using Zoom and other means to continue to provide education, help members learn the ritual and facilitate meaningful interactions.

Our Masonic Villages continue to exemplify our Masonic principles of love and benevolence. Employees from all parts of our operation are pitching in to help care for our residents by delivering meals to residents’ accommodations to promote safety and social distancing. Staff are finding creative ways to help residents stay in touch with their families and enjoy modified recreational and spiritual opportunities. I can’t express how proud I am of being the Grand Master of such an awesome organization. It’s about the people serving in trenches day-to-day who make us so important in this world.

I thank the Lord every day that He has allowed me to play a small part in what we do!

Brethren, this is YOUR fraternity. I hope you’re as proud of it as I am. Remember to identify one good man who will be a good brother and talk to him about how Freemasonry can enrich his life.

We are excited to be partnering with the Scottish Rite Northern and Southern jurisdictions and the Shrine on an enhanced Not Just a Man. A Mason. awareness campaign. Inquiries received through the beafreemason.org website are directed to our Grand Lodge, from which they are forwarded to the appropriate district and lodge.

Early in my term, I had the pleasure of traveling across the state numerous times and appreciated the warm receptions by our brethren.

It was wonderful making new friendships as well as reacquainting with long-time friends. I look forward to doing more of the same as soon as it’s safe to do so. Until then, I encourage everyone to follow precautions, stay home as much as possible, and protect your health.

We must remember that we WILL get through this, and we WILL emerge stronger and more dedicated because of it. We will prove that the values and principles of Freemasonry are more contagious than any virus.

Sincerely and Fraternally,

Thomas Gamon, IV, R.W. Grand Master

FREEMASONRY TODAY

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Pennsylvania Freemason

GOLF TOURNAMENT

GRAND MASTER’S CENTRAL REGION MASONIC CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT Saturday, July 25, at Irem Country Club, Dallas, PA 11 - 11:30 a.m. Registration 11:30 a.m.

Lunch (hot dogs, hamburgers, salads, beverages and all the fixings) 12:30 p.m.

Shotgun start 5 - 6 p.m.

Social hour with beverages 6 p.m.

First class dinner with carving station, followed by awards $125 per golfer includes greens fees, cart, lunch, social hour, dinner, special gifts and door prizes

Sponsorships

Tee Sponsors: $100 • Green Sponsors: $150 • Tournament Sponsors: $250 To register golfers or for sponsorship information, contact: Brother Ron Aungst, R.W.P.G.M., 231 Valley View Lane, Jersey Shore, PA 17740 • 570-295-2560 • rwpgm0607@pagrandlodge.org.

For each golfer, include name, address, phone and email. Make checks payable to “Grand Master’s Central Region Masonic Charity Golf Tournament.” Registration must be postmarked by July 5. All proceeds benefit the Masonic Charities.

DeMolay Golf Tournament Aug. 4 and 5, 2020

Interstate Competition - All Proceeds Benefit PA and NJ DeMolay. Limited to 120 golfers - Registration Deadline: Aug. 1 Aug. 4 at Eagles Crossing Golf Club, Carlisle, PA 11:30 a.m. Lunch, 12:30 p.m. Shotgun Scramble format with individual and widow ball team competition Roast pig supper with all the fixings (alternative entree upon request) Aug. 5 at Mayapple Golf Links, Carlisle, PA 7 a.m. Breakfast, 8 a.m. Shotgun Scramble format with lunch following Sponsorships available: Signs recognizing your lodge, valley, Shrine center, chapter, district, business or Individual (tax-exempt donation) Hotel accommodations for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are available at Comfort Inn, Carlisle. Call 717-706-3400 and mention “DeMolay Golf.”

2 rounds of golf, 4 meals, gifts, prizes and hospitality for $175.

Fee for one day participation is $110.

Provide the following information, with check payable to “DeMolay Golf Tournament” to: Mike Aaron, 119 Valleycrest Drive, Cecil, PA 15321: Name of each golfer (4), phone and email. Provide the same information if you wish to be a sponsor.

(Tee sponsor, $100; Hazard sponsor, $150; Meal sponsor, $300; Hospitality sponsor, $500) and your desired sign wording.

Questions: 724-263-1778 or shrinepp@comcast.net.

May 2020

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FREEMASONRY TODAY

GRAND LODGE OF PA, F. & A.M.

3RD ANNUAL MASONIC CHARITIES SPORTING CLAYS EVENTS WESTERN EVENT

Sunday, Aug. 23, 2020

Seven Springs Sporting Clays 777 Waterwheel Drive Seven Springs, PA 15622 800-452-2223

EASTERN EVENT

Sunday, Sept. 13, 2020

Lehigh Valley Sporting Clays 2750 Limestone Street Coplay, PA 18037 610-261-9616

SCHEDULE FOR BOTH EVENTS:

8:30 a.m.

Registration and warm up 10 a.m.

Shooting will begin promptly Cost: $150 per person, breakfast & lunch included

$25 non-shooter lunch Winners will be determined by the Lewis Class system.

Chinese Auction, 50/50 and more!

Registration deadline for both shoots is July 18.

For more information, call Jeff at 724-396-8001.

Shooters must provide their own ammunition. All proceeds benefit the Masonic Temple/Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania. Sponsorships are tax deductible.

Make checks payable to: Masonic Library & Museum of PA c/o Harry Rutter, Masonic Temple, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Please check the event you wish to shoot: □ Seven Springs Sporting Clays on Aug. 23 □ Lehigh Valley Sporting Clays on Sept. 13 Sponsor Opportunities □ Station Sponsor □ 5 Stand Sponsor □ Breakfast Sponsor □ Ammo Sponsor □ Lunch Sponsor □ Shoot Sponsor □ Chinese Auction Item

Total

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$100 $500 $1,000 $2,500 $3,000 $5,000 $_______ $_______

Online Edition www.pagrandlodge.org/magazine

Name: ____________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________ City: _____________________________________________ State: ______ Zip Code: ____________________________ Phone:____________________________________________ Shooters Shooter 1:_________________________________________ Shooter 2: _________________________________________ Shooter 3: _________________________________________ Shooter 4: _________________________________________ # of shooters ______ x $150 = $______________ # of lunch only ______x $25 = $___________ Total: $____________

Pennsylvania Freemason

CALL FOR ENTRIES - THE GRAND EXHIBITION An Open Art Competition: Embodying Masonic Values Sponsored by The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania

Criteria

exhibited. No work previously produced

price for the original work to be revealed

All artwork entries must display a

on a commission will be accepted.

AFTER the auction.

visual interpretation of some aspect of

All submissions must be available for

Freemasonry in Pennsylvania, whether

purchase.

Calendar

it be philosophical, historical, scientific,

Categories

social, fraternal, charitable, architectural, etc. Selected artwork will be exhibited in the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia.

Jurors

Brother Travis Simpkins, Artist William Scott Noel, Painter Moe A. Brooker, Painter

Eligibility

Any amateur or professional artist or college art student may enter, but all will be judged as equals for competition purposes.

Artists must be at least 18 years of age.

All submissions must be original; they may have been created within the past two years and may have been previously

May 2020

Entry deadline: Thursday, Aug. 6, by midnight, E.D.T. Submissions must be

Oil, Three-dimensional, Drawing and

made through www.callforentry.org

Print-making, Water-Based Medium, Digital

Jury selection announced: Friday, Aug. 28

Imagery

Opening Reception: The Grand Exhibition

Awards

Gala will be held at the Masonic Temple in

$200 Prize per winner, per category $500 Grand Master’s Prize $1,000 Best in Show Prize

Auction

Philadelphia on Friday, Oct. 2, featuring a cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception, live music, announcement of winners and a live auction of selected artwork.

Exhibition: The Grand Exhibition will be

If the artists in the Grand Exhibition choose

open to the public to view starting on

to participate, their entered works may be

Tuesday, Oct. 6, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Tuesdays -

auctioned off at the Exhibition Gala, with

Saturdays, until Oct. 31.

80% of the auction value going to them and

Masonic Temple, One N. Broad St.,

20% to The Masonic Library and Museum

Philadelphia, PA 19107-2598

of Pennsylvania. The artist may set a

For more information, visit

reserve price, as well as a direct purchase

www.pagrandlodge.org.

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FREEMASONRY TODAY

LIBRARY HONORS COY LEGACY To honor her husband of 44 years, Brother Jeff Coy, who passed away on June 4, 2018, Jo Anne Coy gave a generous

as state representative for the 89th District and was very active in the community.

donation to the Shippensburg Public Library, which has been renamed in their honor.

A lifelong resident of the town, Brother Jeff served 11 terms

Contributions from various Masonic groups and brethren were collected to present a plaque to the library memorializing the R.W. Past Grand Treasurer’s contributions to his community.

HOW HELPING ANOTHER HELPED ME

by Brother Paul M. Racioppo, Kiskiminetas Lodge No. 617, Vandergrift While working in the field recently, deep into West Virginia, I came across a disabled vehicle. I slowed down to see if anyone was there and noticed a young woman in delicate condition. I turned around to see if I could help, and as I pulled up to her, I noticed her car had a flat tire. Her cell phone did not have service since we were in the middle of absolutely nowhere.

I asked her if she had a spare tire, and she did, so I offered to change her tire for her. She was very nervous, to the point she was shaking. She mentioned being late-term pregnant, that her husband was a police officer in training and that she comes from a family of blue. Since I’m much better at changing tires than

no idea how much focusing on helping her helped me. It was one

delivering babies in the woods, I tried to calm her.

of those days, being a single dad of a teenager with a lot going

I asked her if she knew what a Mason was. She did not, so I

on in life. Since I quit drinking alcohol seven years ago, anxiety

gave her a quick rundown on the brotherhood. I assured her that

has been a challenge, and it was getting the best of me on this

she was safe under my watch. At last, she relaxed. A few minutes

four-hour drive to see my customer. I tried music, breathing and

later, the tire was changed, and she was about to be on her way.

calming thoughts, and nothing was helping. I was on the edge of

She happily thanked me. I told her to tell her husband that the

a panic attack. As I came around the bend and saw her car on the

Masonic brotherhood looked over his family when they needed it.

side of the road, I was instantly calm. I am grateful that I escaped

There are always two sides to every story. The woman has

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my own mind and grateful for the opportunity to be a better man.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Random Acts of Kindness How many times have you received a skeptical, quizzical or even surprised look when you told someone you’re a Mason?

Our fraternity is often shrouded with mystery, misrepresented by Hollywood, dismissed by uninformed naysayers and misunderstood by the masses.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

The best way to prove our value to society is by educating others through our actions. Freemasons are good men of their word who benefit society in countless, quiet ways that are often conducted outside of the public eye. That’s why Grand Master Tom Gamon is challenging every Pennsylvania Mason to demonstrate goodwill by performing Random Acts of Kindness. These small, thoughtful gestures will give others a glimpse into what it means to be a Pennsylvania Freemason.

Opportunities to make a difference in another’s life present themselves daily; we just need to be willing to take a moment to observe our surroundings. It may be as simple as helping a stranded motorist jump start his car, buying coffee for the lady behind you at Starbucks, carrying someone’s groceries, mowing an elderly neighbor’s lawn, picking up trash in a park, making a meal for a shut-in or donating food or clothing to a family in need.

When you answer the challenge to assist someone, simply give the individual one of these business cards. Our website and social media channels are listed for those wishing to learn more. Make sure to get some business cards from your lodge secretary and keep them in a convenient place such as in your wallet or your glove box.

Let’s challenge ourselves to live the values of Freemasonry by showing concern for the wellbeing of others.

May 2020

Let us know about your Random Acts of Kindness!

Email your story to pr@masonicvillages.org. If you have a picture and permission from everyone included, attach it to your email.

lped e just he r e w u o Y . emason sted is for you tod. e r F a y b reque in nee nsation ne else

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compe someo The only ard by helping rw fo pay it

A Way of Lif e Freemasonr y is kindness in the home business, co , honesty in urtesy in socie ty, pity and unfortunate concern for , resis the trust in the str tance of the wicked, he lp ong, forgive for the weak ness for the , one another, penitent, lov and above all e for , reverence an d love for Go d.

www.pagrand

lodge.org

Do Good Unto All

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MEMBERSHIP

FROM COMBAT VET TO ADVOCATE Meet Brother Clyde Hoch, Best-Selling Author, Speaker and Avid Volunteer A Fish Out of Water When Brother Clyde Hoch, P.M., first stepped into Perkiomen Lodge No. 595 in 1997, he hardly knew anyone.

“I was way out of my element, as I was always shy and

fraternity takes a good man and makes him better, so I strive to be better all the time.”

A Marine in Vietnam

reserved,” he said. “I felt like a fish out of water.”

Three days after graduating from Upper Perkiomen

Clyde suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

High School in 1965, Clyde was on his way to Parris Island,

and traumatic brain injury, which makes it difficult for him

S.C., for boot camp. After being trained in tanks at Camp

to talk to people he doesn’t know. He also tends to be very

Lejeune, N.C., he became part of the Fleet Marine Force and a

uncomfortable in crowds.

Battalion Landing Team. Following two six-month tours on the

“One of the things that made me continue to come back was one particular member of the lodge,” Clyde said. “Brother

Mediterranean Sea, he opted to go to Vietnam to fight for his country.

Thomas Gamon, IV, came to me and talked with me, which made

He served as a tank commander during the Tet Offensive

me feel much more comfortable. If it was not for his friendly

from 1968-1969, the years of the heaviest fighting during which

manner, I don’t know if I would have returned.”

28,679 Americans perished. He was involved in countless fire

Thankfully, he did.

fights. Once, a rocket-propelled grenade passed over his head,

Not only that, but he quickly learned the skill of public

missing him by inches. Still, he did his best to hide his fear and

speaking and went through the chairs – two feats he never

direct his men.

dreamed he’d accomplish. He served as Worshipful Master twice.

Clyde lost two of his best friends in the war. His ticket home

A retired press operator and lifelong resident of Pennsburg,

came in the form of a traumatic head injury sustained when the

Clyde is now a full-time veterans advocate, an award-winning

tank he was commanding hit a land mine. The blast stole some of

author and a documentary filmmaker. He’s also the father of five

his hearing and caused memory loss and violent flashbacks.

daughters and Cooper, his service dog, whom he calls his “big

“Things can change in seconds,” Clyde said.

baby.”

PTSD was poorly understood at the time, so veterans

“Freemasonry is about helping others do what they can,” Clyde said. “It helped me get on a road to start doing this. The

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like Clyde were labeled shell-shocked, and as a result, socially isolated.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

they would be interested in publishing it. But first, he sent a draft to his daughter to proofread, and she said, “You have to make this into a book.”

Writing became a vehicle for Clyde to turn his post-war frustration into countless opportunities to help others understand PTSD and other mental health problems affecting war vets.

“I used to hide my disorder because I didn’t know what it was, but once I was diagnosed, I started talking and writing about it so I could help others,” he said.

Once at a parade, a stranger came up to Clyde, shook his hand and told him he had read his book. The man said it helped him to understand his daughter’s PTSD. He also had her read it, so she could realize she wasn’t the only one suffering from it.

Clyde feels the sacrifices of military heroes should live on in words for future generations to learn and benefit from. All profits from his nine books, most of which are military-based, are donated to veterans groups, schools and libraries.

A Volunteer Mentor Clyde doesn’t just write about helping fellow veterans; he also actively advocates, mentors and assists them in any way he can. As a volunteer for the Lehigh County District Attorney’s

A Not-So-Welcome Home Despite their sacrifice and suffering, Clyde and his fellow soldiers were not welcomed home as heroes.

“It was the worst time in my life,” he said. “Everyone, in general, looked down on you if you were in the military. We were made out to be villains by the media. It was overwhelming. I was more comfortable in combat than in my own country.”

While Clyde didn’t receive much help, he has devoted his life to making a difference for others.

“Everyone coming back from war has problems readjusting to civilian life or back into society,” he said. “One of the reasons why vets today get a better reception when they get home is because Vietnam vets decided they’d never let that happen to another generation.”

veterans during court appearances and checks in on them at home to make sure they’re taking their medication and showing up for therapy sessions.

Those arrested for minor offenses are typically veterans returning from recent wars in the Middle East who struggle with combat-related mental illness, like PTSD, as well as substance abuse – especially alcoholism – as they attempt to cope. While not designed to reduce participants’ punishment, the program lessens repeat offenses by providing veterans mentoring and treatment.

“This is something that I’ve lived with my entire life,” Clyde said. “For a long time, I felt like there was no one who understood me. It’s amazing how a combat veteran will open up to another combat veteran. They are the only other people who truly

A Healing Vocation Clyde never dreamed of being a writer, but his inspiration came from a conversation with the late Brother Leroy Heffentrager that made him realize that a great story, undocumented, is lost forever. In 2010, Clyde decided to write his memories and send a chapter to a military magazine to see if

May 2020

Veterans Mentor Program, launched in 2011, Clyde supports

understand how you feel.”

“You are not alone,” Clyde advises veterans returning from combat. “Do not accept ‘no’ for an answer when trying to get help. Do not feel you are not worth it; you sacrificed so much – you deserve much more than you are getting.”

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MEMBERSHIP A Veterans Brotherhood

and produced by Films-4-Good. It is about a group of veterans,

Clyde knows too well the staggering suicide statistics when veterans do not get the help they need. In 2016, he founded

their community and their struggle with PTSD; the trailer can be viewed at veteransbrotherhood.net.

Veterans Brotherhood, Inc., to help veterans get their lives back together before they get in trouble with the law.

“We want to produce a film that will inform, involve and inspire others to have hope and take action to save lives,” Clyde

“They come to us at their lowest, when they have nowhere

said. “It is very hard for veterans to talk to family members about

else to turn,” Clyde said. “We have taken hundreds of veterans

their experiences. This film will help family members understand

off the streets and placed them into hotel rooms until they were

PTSD and look for warning signs of suicide.”

evaluated and found proper places to live. We evaluate what’s best for their long-term future through our network of resources.

A Mission Continued

Some have since gotten jobs and enrolled in school.”

A

completely

volunteer-run

organization,

Clyde has no plans of slowing down.

Veterans

“There is a lot left to accomplish yet,” he said.

Brotherhood has four mentors certified through the Lehigh

For one thing, he feels more needs to be done to help

County District Attorney’s office, including one who is a therapist

acclimate members of the military before they come home from

for the Veterans Administration (VA). In addition, the organization

combat.

assists veterans with rent, food, clothes, back taxes, car or utility

“It’s a big change,” Clyde explained.

payments, car repairs, transportation or even gift cards to help

A change that is hard to navigate alone and causes many of

families celebrate the holidays with their children.

Veterans Brotherhood, Inc., receives a lot of referrals from

the problems he sees in the veterans he spends countless hours helping.

the VA, as well as from other referral sources and veterans

“I never want to see anyone go through what I did,” he said.

themselves. Prior to providing assistance, Veterans Brotherhood works with its network of resources to verify that the requester is truly a veteran. Volunteers attempt to assist any veterans in need as long as they’re legitimate, including 100 in 2019 alone.

Any one is welcome, veteran or non-veteran, to be a member of Veterans Brotherhood, Inc. Membership is in the hundreds, from as far away as Kentucky and Texas.

“They’re some of the most outstanding people,” Clyde said.

A nonprofit, Veterans Brotherhood, Inc., receives no government funding and operates solely by donations it receives from businesses, church groups and individuals. At this point, the organization doesn’t have to solicit much due to its transparency and commitment to ensuring all the money goes straight to

Brother Clyde Hoch’s books include: “Tracks: Memoirs of a

veterans.

Vietnam Veteran”; “A Tribute to Tankers from WWI to Iraq”;

“We make sure we use donations as wisely as possible to

“B.A.R. Man, Browning Automatic Rifle Man”; “A Man Down”;

help as many as we can,” Clyde said. “When I started this, I never

“Albion”; “God Help Me! Cause No One Else Will”; “The

expected it to become what it is today.”

Biography of Linda”; “Tanks: A Century of Dominating the

A Filmmaker

Battlefield”; “Marine Corps Boot Camp 1965”; and “Cooper: The Making of a Service Dog.” He does lectures, public

In 2016, Clyde completed an educational documentary film

speaking and book signings at libraries, military and veterans

called, “Tanks: A Century of Dominating the Battlefield.” His

groups, museums, churches, schools, Boy Scout troops,

next documentary film, “The Journey Home,” is being directed

senior centers, Masonic lodges and radio and TV shows.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

PURSUING OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE AND STEWARDSHIP The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania has a long and proud

for its original Masonic purposes, showcasing Masonic history and

history of getting the most out of its resources. This can be seen

philosophy through educational programs and growing the Mission

in the remarkable efforts of Pennsylvania Masons more than a

of Love at Masonic Villages and the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth

century ago, as they marshaled the resources to design, construct

Foundation.

and ornament our magnificent Masonic Temple in Philadelphia.

The notion of stewardship is as important today as it ever was.

And it can be seen again when the next generation of Pennsylvania

Each year, the Grand Lodge and its charities have substantial losses

Masons methodically set about establishing the Masonic Villages,

from operations. That is, it costs the Grand Lodge substantially

immediately following the last principal payment on the construction

more to provide its charitable and fraternal services than it receives

financing for the Masonic Temple.

in payment for them. For example, in 2019, the Masonic Villages

Through these remarkable undertakings, the Grand Lodge

provided an astonishing $10 million (at cost) in free care and $23.4

adopted practices for managing its financial resources that have

million (at cost) in care subsidies. Accordingly, to sustain and

stood the test of time. Imbued with a culture of stewardship, the

perpetuate its programs, Grand Lodge relies not only on its revenue

officers, trustees and committee members of the Grand Lodge

from operations, but on continued gifts and bequests and investment

ensured that every contribution was recorded and used for its

income. Grand Lodge still needs to get the most out of its resources

intended purposes. Long before “accountability” and “transparency”

by pursuing organizational excellence and good stewardship.

became trendy buzz words, the Grand Lodge made its financial

This is the first in a series of articles that will describe the

statements and records available for inspection by its members and

measures being taken to make the Grand Lodge’s operations more

the general public.

efficient and effective, and to enhance its legacy of being good

Confident in the thrifty and prudent activities of the Grand

and careful stewards of the assets entrusted to its care. In the next

Lodge, Pennsylvania Masons and their loved ones generously

issue, there will be a feature story on the function and responsibility

provided the financial resources to permit the Grand Lodge and its

of the Grand Lodge Committee on Finance. In subsequent issues,

charities to flourish. The Grand Lodge has been a good steward over

there will be features on Grand Lodge’s investment and gift planning

the years, diligently maintaining and preserving the Masonic Temple

programs.

May 2020

Online Edition www.pagrandlodge.org/magazine

13

MEMBERSHIP

MAKING A DIFFERENCE ONE RIDE AT A TIME “When you have a disability, people tend to talk over you or around you or about you. When you’re here, you’re part of the conversation, part of the Pegasus family.” – Alexandra Manwarren, Executive Director Back in 1999, Brother Sam Freeman, then-Worshipful Master, and Brother Harvey Perelman, then-Secretary of Brotherhood Lodge

later, Clyde would still be thriving, having helped thousands of children and adults with disabilities.

No. 126, Philadelphia, were looking for a charity to support.

Around the same time, Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Academy Inc., in northeast Philadelphia – which provides equine assisted

“I’m proud that I was part of this, and that our lodge was part of this,” Sam said. “We did something – we didn’t know at the time that it would still have this effect.”

therapies and riding lessons to children and adults with physical,

Clyde, now 27, is most often the first pony that many of

developmental and intellectual disabilities – was in need of a new

Pegasus’ clients ever ride, Executive Director Alexandra Manwarren

therapy horse.

said. He has helped many riders in overcoming their fears and

It was a good match.

moving onto success in the program.

Harvey had a special connection to Pegasus. His daughter, who

“What a wonderful donation – he’s the heart of our program

was born with cerebral palsy, had been riding horses there since she

after all of these years, working six days a week and providing

was a little girl. He also serves on the board of directors.

amazing therapies to kids and adults,” Alexandra said. “He is sweet

“Harvey was one of the reasons why we chose to support this

and trustworthy.”

organization,” said Sam, now D.D.G.M.-C. “I realized how much it

Equine assisted therapy, or therapeutic riding, offers those

had helped his daughter and thought it would be worth doing, since

with disabilities an opportunity to gain a sense of control over their

the Grand Lodge was doing a matching grant program.”

bodies. Medically speaking, the horse’s body and motion can stretch

The Grand Lodge agreed to match the funds raised by the

and relax the muscles, and riding can also help the child to gain

lodge, and $5,000 was donated to Pegasus. The late Carol Tatum,

muscle tone and body strength and improve posture. Pegasus, which

who co-founded Pegasus with her husband, Rich, was able to

was founded in 1982, currently has 15 horses, 95 riders and 100

purchase Clyde, a 7-year-old crossbred pony.

volunteers.

Pegasus held a dedication ceremony for the new horse,

In 2016, Clyde was recognized as “Therapy Horse of the Year”

attended by lodge members, and placed the original Masonic

at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show, one of the top three horse

emblem above Clyde’s nameplate in his stall, where it remains today.

shows in the country.

The brothers couldn’t have predicted that more than 20 years

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“We have lost many horses over the years to age and illness,”

Pennsylvania Freemason

Harvey said. “We’ve retired horses to greener pastures, but Clyde is

“We greatly appreciate the support of the Masons,” Alexandra

still going strong today. He has the perfect demeanor. It’s amazing to

added. “As you can see, the donation is still changing lives here in

watch. I thought after my daughter stopped riding, I would leave the

northeast Philadelphia.”

program, but 30 years later, I’m still here.”

For more information on Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Academy,

On a recent Thursday morning, Tommy, 31, was taking his

visit https://www.pegasusridingacademy.com.

weekly riding lesson with Clyde. His mother, Mary Anne Porreca, was beaming with pride, even after 10 years of watching her son ride the horse. The riding lessons have increased Tommy’s ability to focus, and he has become more independent, among other things, she said.

“They work with him, and they teach me how to better handle situations with him,” she said. “I’ve learned so much about human nature here. It’s an amazing place.”

May 2020

Online Edition www.pagrandlodge.org/magazine

15

MEMBERSHIP

SING US A SONG … FOR CHARITY Meet Brother Gerald McGrew, Jr., “The Piano Man of Pittsburgh” They call him “The Piano Man of Pittsburgh.”

Area School District, where he has worked for the past 20 years.

Brother Gerald McGrew, Jr., a pianist for nearly 40 years,

“I was always very interested in government and politics,” he

enjoys playing at Pittsburgh-area piano bars like Mellon’s Pub in

said. “I never taught music. I didn’t feel I had the patience for it. I

McKeesport and The Clubhouse on the Hill in Freeport.

wanted to keep it as a hobby that I loved.”

Although he loves sharing his passion for music, Gerald

Gerald also served three terms as Mayor of Dravosburg,

entertains with a higher purpose in mind – all of his proceeds

PA. While working at a church (his college degree is in religious

and tips are donated to Masonic charities, most notably Shriners

studies), his efforts to build a crosswalk at a nearby pre-school

Hospitals for Children.

were ignored, prompting him to run for office. “That crosswalk

For more than five years, the former keyboard player, who

was the first thing I got done as Mayor,” he said proudly.

famously opened for country singer Vince Gill and the rock band

Gerald began taking piano lessons when he was just 5 or 6

Styx, has anonymously raised more than $10,000 for the hospital.

years old. His sister was taking lessons, and he was jealous of all

He also has developed a large following of brothers and fans who

the attention she was getting. Before long, he was hooked, and

support his mission.

realized he had the talent to go all the way.

“When I first joined the Masons, we were afforded the

“The joke has always been, ‘you could have made it big, but

opportunity to tour one of the Shriners hospitals,” Gerald said.

you got married and had kids,’” he said. “But I always say, ‘I did

“My son had just been born. I walked in and lasted five minutes.

make it big. I’m still married to my high school sweetheart. Things

I couldn’t take it. I said, ‘Whatever you need from me, I’ll do it.’”

worked out ok.’”

Past Master and Secretary of Omni Lodge No. 582, Dravosburg, Gerald achieved the DeMolay Legion of Honor

Gerald hosts at least one major piano fundraiser a year for charity; the most recent one was held in March.

this past October, the highest honor that can be conferred on a

R.W. Past Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon, a friend of

Senior DeMolay, given for outstanding service to either the Order

Gerald’s, can often be seen in the audience at one of the pubs,

of DeMolay or to the community.

cheering on his brother.

“I was extremely shocked and thankful for my DeMolay

“Brother Gerry is a fantastic entertainer,” he said. “His

‘Dad,’ Clyde Zimmerman,” Brother Gerald said. “He spearheaded

repertoire of music, by memory, that most Masons are familiar

my nomination without my knowledge … Joining the lodge was

with, is endless. He performs in a very dynamic manner and

the best thing I ever did. It taught me how to be a better husband

keeps the listeners very attentive. He has been, and is now, a

and father through the people I met.”

very active Mason in the Western Pennsylvania area. I have

When he’s not playing music, Gerald teaches psychology, economics, political science and U.S. history in the McKeesport

16

always been impressed by his charitable action of giving the money he earns playing to the Shriners Hospitals.”

Online Edition www.pagrandlodge.org/magazine

Pennsylvania Freemason

Shriners Hospitals provide specialized pediatric care in orthopedics, burn care, spinal cord injury, craniofacial and cleft lip/palate without regard to the families’ ability to pay. With 22 locations, telehealth sites, outreach programs and community clinics, Shriners Hospitals have treated 1.4 million children since 1922. In 2019 alone, Shriners Hospitals cared for 145,608 children and invested $38 million in research. www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.com May 2020

Online Edition www.pagrandlodge.org/magazine

17

MEMBERSHIP

BROTHER OFFERS FINANCIAL EXPERTISE TO THOSE IN NEED “A lot of times, my job is just answering questions and pointing people in the right direction,” John said. “For those who want to stay living independently, I introduce them to county services that they may not have realized were available, like waiver programs, where someone will come in and clean your house, cook meals for you, make sure someone does the grocery shopping and keep you from going into a nursing facility prematurely.”

John has served on the panel since 2016 and has helped more than 14 people.

“We find out who lives close enough to the client to get there if a visit needs to be done in person,” John said. “We do our very best for them, either by giving them the answers they were looking for or connecting them with the right resources for themselves or their families.”

John recalls a client who was overwhelmed with taking care of his ailing wife. John helped to get him into the county waiver With more than 40 years of experience as a financial

program, where a visiting nurse assisted him with caretaking. John

consultant, Brother John E. Stanojev has a wealth of knowledge to

also introduced him to the veterans’ benefit program, which provided

share. Through the Masonic Outreach Program, he helps people in

monies to pay for additional medical expenses.

need of financial advice who may have nowhere else to turn.

Pennsylvania

Freemasons

and

their

families

“His wife ultimately passed away, but he called me to thank me seeking

information, direction and education can find the assistance they

and said he wouldn’t have been able to care for his wife without me,” John said. “It was a really good feeling.”

need through the pro-bono Outreach Program, which provides a

When he’s not volunteering his time, John is an adjunct

panel of attorneys, home assistance, referrals and a finance panel,

professor at the Community College of Philadelphia, where he

among other services.

teaches professional education to certified public accountants. He’s

John, owner of Capital Insurance & Investment Planning, Inc.

also a member of Lodge No. 245, Doylestown, since 1981.

in New Britain, PA, serves on the program’s finance panel. The

“I come from a long line of Masons,” he said. “My father and

15-member, all-volunteer panel assists those in need of developing

grandfathers and all of my uncles were Masons. If you believe in

or improving budgeting and other skills. All panel members have a

being a Mason, what we do is help each other, and that’s what it’s all

professional background in the financial field.

about. Doing this is my way of giving back and contributing.”

“We have resources that we can share after all these years of

Brother Nicholas K. Mahler, Director of Outreach for Masonic

business, so that members get the best attention we can give them,”

Villages, facilitates the outreach program. “John has been a

John said. “The majority of the people we help are in the stages of

wonderful addition to the finance panel,” he said.

retirement where they may have made a few bad decisions, and we’re trying to help them straighten it out.”

John assists clients with estate planning, investment needs, post-retirement needs, etc. For clients looking to enter a Masonic Village, John will review their finances to see if they qualify for financial assistance or have the income to sustain themselves there.

18

“John is engaged, and he seeks to be involved and contribute to supporting the fraternity,” he said. “That’s what we want in somebody who is going to help someone else.”

Securities and Advisory Services offered through Cadaret, Grant & Co., Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor and Member FINRA/SIPC Capital Insurance & Investment Planning, Inc. and Cadaret, Grant & Co., Inc. are separate entities.

Online Edition www.pagrandlodge.org/magazine

Pennsylvania Freemason

“To be killed in war is not the worst that can happen. To be lost is not the worst that can happen … to be forgotten is the worst.” — Pierre Claeyssens (1909-2003), Courtesy of Wreaths Across America

WREATHS REMEMBER THE FALLEN Each December, on National Wreaths Across America Day,

to promote the program as an honor to veterans and Masonic

thousands of volunteers place wreaths on the graves of fallen

veterans,” he said. “A lot of scouting troops were involved as well,

military members at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as more

since many of our members lead those organizations. It gave the

than 2,100 locations across the country and abroad.

young people a new appreciation for the sacrifices veterans made.”

For two local Pennsylvania Masons, the Wreaths Across

Brother Henry J. Federowicz, D.D.G.M.-2, and member of

America organization holds special meaning, as they or those close

Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, also donated his time to the program.

to them sacrificed their time and safety to preserve our freedoms.

Henry’s parents are both buried at Indiantown Gap National

Brother Todd Heckathorn, a former Marine and Army National

Cemetery. His father was a World War II Navy veteran. His mother

Guard veteran who did tours of Iraq and Afghanistan, has been

worked in various assembly plants making war materials. Henry

sponsoring wreaths at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in

also volunteers on the cemetery’s Memorial Council to keep the

Annville, PA, through the Veterans Riders’ Association. His brother,

grounds at the cemetery well-groomed and beautiful.

also a veteran, passed away two years ago in a motorcycle accident.

“Thanks to the support from various lodges, last year they were able to mark every single grave with a wreath,” he said.

“We registered with Wreaths Across America to do out part to

“There was an actual overflow of wreaths. We gave 2,000 extra

make sure all of the grave sites are covered,” he said. “The last two

wreaths to other cemeteries and veterans in surrounding areas.

years, everyone has pulled together to make sure that happens.”

What a tribute to all of those veterans who are now deceased.”

Last November, Todd, W.M., Ephrata Lodge No. 665, asked

“We are proud of these two Masons in particular and all the

the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania to support the Wreaths Across

Masons who ever served our country in the military,” said Brother

America program for a local ceremony at Indiantown Gap National

Harry B. Rutter, Jr., William L. Elkins Lodge No. 271, Philadelphia

Cemetery. There are over 40,000 veterans interred at the cemetery.

(Director of Grand Lodge Operations).

Grand Lodge agreed to support the cause, donating $1,500, which paid for over 100 wreaths.

Volunteer or donate to Wreaths Across America by visiting www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.

Todd also reached out to his lodge for additional support.

The lodge donated $500, which paid for 33 wreaths. “I wanted

May 2020

Online Edition www.pagrandlodge.org/magazine

19

PHILANTHROPY

Hope

Faith Silence

Charity

Virtue

Strength

MASONIC TEMPLE CELEBRATES 200 YEARS OF RUSH STATUES Did you know that The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia has

found in Royal Arch Masonry. Carved as reclining figures, Faith,

one of the largest collections of American sculptor William Rush’s

Hope and Charity symbolize three important virtues of Freemasonry.

(1756 – 1833) work in one place? The Temple is celebrating the

Silence serves as a reminder to all Masons of their vow of secrecy

200 anniversary of seven sculptures being commissioned to the

upon their initiation.

th

Temple by Rush, who also happened to be born in Philadelphia.

While the Temple has a large collection of Rush’s work, its

“The sculptures are included on tours of the Temple,” said

neighbor down Broad Street, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine

Brother Michael Comfort, Director of The Masonic Library & Museum

Arts (PAFA), has nine sculptures from the artist in their collection

of Pennsylvania. “They are easily accessible to anyone who takes

(Rush also co-founded the Academy). The Philadelphia Museum

a tour of the building.”

of Art also has a vast collection of his work. Other works that exist

Rush began his career as a carver of ship figureheads in the

are in private hands or in other institutions.

thriving shipbuilding industry of Philadelphia. He made the figureheads

“We also have other statues in the collection that are in the

for the first six ships built for the U.S. Navy. As his reputation grew

same style [as Rush’s], but done by other artists,” Michael said. “If

in figurehead carving, he accepted commissions from prominent

you walk down the hallway where Silence and Virtue are, there are

individuals outside the nautical community, according to “The

two other statues down there in that Greek allegorical style.”

Masonic Temple in Philadelphia” book.

The Museum Gift Shop has a limited supply of the miniature

After the Masonic Hall on Chestnut Street burned down in

version of the Charity sculpture for sale. The miniature sits atop

1819, the Building Committee of the Grand Lodge commissioned

a 4”x6” inch wooden base, with the history given underneath. It’s

Rush to carve figures for the newly reconstructed Grand Lodge

available for purchase for $5 in the store, by calling 1-800-336-

Hall, dedicated in 1820.

7317, online at masonicmuseumgifts.com, or by sending a check

The Temple owns Faith, Hope, Charity, Silence, Virtue and two

payable to Masonic Temple Library & Museum to: Masonic Temple

large, armless winged cherubs on the staircase leading to the third

Gift Shop, One N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107. Shipping

floor, all carved from wood. The Cherubim are part of the symbolism

and tax adds $9.40, for a total cost of $14.40.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

ENCOURAGES PLATELET AND PLASMA DONATIONS

by Charles T. Graham, P.D.D.G.M.-D

Donating blood is an altruistic way of helping others in our

To emphasize the importance of these blood products, and

communities and that benefits the whole society. The Masonic

to encourage the donation of platelets and plasma, the Masonic

Blood+Organ Donor Program of Pennsylvania continues to promote

Blood+Organ Donor Program has expanded donation opportunities

Masonic blood drives throughout the state in an effort to share this

for individuals interested in becoming platelet or plasma donors.

valuable gift of life. Equally important to the collection of whole

For each platelet or plasma donation, the Masonic Blood+Organ

blood units is the collection of platelets and plasma to aid patients

Donor Program will disburse $10 to an approved Masonic 501(c)

requiring these vital blood products.

(3) charity of the donor’s choice. Donors are permitted to make up

Platelets are tiny cells in your blood that form clots and stop

to 24 platelet donations per year. Plasma donors are permitted up

bleeding. For millions of Americans, they are essential for surviving

to 12 units per year. This is yet another opportunity for brethren to

and fighting cancer, chronic diseases and traumatic injuries. Every

share this life-saving gift within our communities, and at the same

30 seconds, someone in the United States needs platelets. Because

time, support worthy charitable causes.

platelets have a limited shelf life and must be used within five days, new donors are needed every day.

Donating platelets or plasma is a safe procedure that is performed by professionally trained staff in a highly controlled and

Plasma is the clear, straw-colored liquid portion of blood that

regulated environment at select blood collection drives and within

remains after red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and other

community donation centers. For more information about becoming

cellular components are removed. It is the largest component of

a Masonic Blood+Organ Donor Program platelet or plasma donor,

human blood, comprising about 55% of the total volume. It contains

contact the American Red Cross, MillerKeystone Blood Centers,

water, salt, enzymes, antibodies and other proteins. As with platelets,

Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank, Community Blood Bank or Vitalant.

plasma is vital to patient treatment and especially for those with

Please download a platelet or plasma donor form from the

hemophilia, shock or trauma, immune deficiencies and other blood

Masonic Blood+Organ Donor website at: https://pagrandlodge.

disorders.

org/mbodp.

May 2020

Online Edition www.pagrandlodge.org/magazine

21

PHILANTHROPY

YOUR MASONIC CHARITIES Whether it impacts one person or 1,000, each Masonic Charity serves an important and special purpose. People young and old, in Pennsylvania and across the world, feel the impact of what these charities achieve every day. With your generosity, in 2019: The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania preserved the magnificent Masonic Temple, showcased and maintained Pennsylvania Freemasonry’s history and enlightened visitors from around the world.

The Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation provided young adults with a strong foundation for personal growth and success in school and life.

The Masonic Children’s Home gave 40 youth a place to call home and all the love and support they need to excel at school, on the field or stage, on the job and in their pursuit of life goals.

The Masonic Villages, home to more than 3,000 individuals, provided loving care to all residents, including those who may be unable to pay for the services they need.

The Masonic Charities Fund offered help at a local, national and international level to Masonic and non-Masonic projects alike.

On behalf of Pennsylvania Freemasonry, thank you to those who supported one or more of the Masonic Charities in 2019 and spread kindness and enlightenment to countless others.

Pennsylvania Freemason

MASONIC VILLAGES • Masonic Villages provided $33.4 million of charitable care and services across Pennsylvania. This amount consists of approximately $10.4 million (at cost) of free care and services and $23 million (at cost) for care and services above the amount reimbursed by Medicare, Medicaid and other third party payers.

• Total residents: 3,062 • Total staff: 2,542 • Total volunteers: 1,065 • Total hospice patients and families who received care and support: 453

CHILDREN’S HOME • Number of seniors who graduated in 2019: 3 • Youngest child: age 7 • Oldest child: age 18 • New children: 5 • Total hours of tutoring: 2,160

YOUTH FOUNDATION • Members of Masonic youth groups: 915 • Scholarships awarded: 56 totaling $188,000 • Masonic youth group adult advisors: 641 • Hours of youth volunteer service: 7,811 • Teachers, counselors, social workers and human service professionals trained: 1,112

LIBRARY & MUSEUM • Volumes of books total in library: 76,000 (120 titles cataloged in 2019) • Books digitized: 42 • Individual research requests: 225 • Visitors from around the world: 13,500 • Masonic lodges met in the Masonic Temple: 32

May 2020

PHILANTHROPY

YOUR YOUTH FOUNDATION

IS STILL SERVING! Helping our children feel safe and secure as we all face concerns and stress of the COVID-19 pandemic is a challenge for every family. Your youth foundation has been hard at work finding new and meaningful ways to support our Masonic family, Masonic youth groups, human service professionals and local communities.

Relationships and Communication

Staying connected is one of the most important social and

we have taken our Educational Institute Educator Trainings online.

emotional needs of every person, and that is especially true for

The attendance at these sessions has ballooned, demonstrating

our children. The Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation (PMYF),

the commitment and passion of the professionals whom these

working with each of our Masonic youth groups, has been able to

trainings serve.

create opportunities for local bethels, chapters and assemblies

Food for Friends

to continue to meet on virtual platforms. The youth are hosting

One of the hardest things to do when we are trying to be

everything from business meetings to family game nights.

physically distant is to show people that we care. One way our

Scholarship Grants

youth have helped is by creating the Food for Friends Initiative 2020.

Our graduating seniors are in a unique position. They may not

Through this program, the PMYF has been able to send food and

have the opportunity to finish their senior year with their friends, but

care packages to families throughout the state. If you are interested

they are still looking forward to what’s ahead. This year, the PMYF

in supporting this valuable, youth-driven program, please visit https://

will give almost $200,000 in scholarship grants. A portion of that is

masoniccharitiespa.org/donate-now/ and be sure to select PMYF

committed to scholarships focused on post-secondary training in

Food for Friends Initiative 2020 when considering your donation.

the skilled trades, technology and first responder training.

Educator Training School may be out of session, but teachers are still working hard to be at their best for their students. Over the past few weeks,

We are proud to be one part of the amazing work that is being done by our Masonic Charities. Your youth foundation is, as always, committed to supporting the youth in Pennsylvania and all those who love and care for the children in their lives.

HODEGOS AWARD RECIPIENTS The HODEGOS Class has been announced for 2020. Many

in the York Rite Bodies, Tall Cedars of Lebanon and High Twelve.

Masons will never see this prestigious award of the Grand Lodge

Michelle Shellenberger, Bethel #19, Mechanicsburg, has

of Pennsylvania presented, because it is only given at the annual

served Job’s Daughters for 14 years as an adult, including Past

conventions of the Masonic youth groups. Only two per group, or

Bethel Guardian, Past Bethel Secretary and Grand Deputy for Bethel

a maximum of six per year, are granted to youth leaders who have

#19. She has served in the Grand Line as Past Grand Marshal, Past

worked for a minimum of seven years, and who have been nominated

Grand Guide, Past Vice Grand Guardian and Past Grand Guardian

by adults and youth who admire and appreciate their service. This

of Pennsylvania.

year’s recipients are:

Kristine Spence, Bethel #15, Elizabethtown, has served Job’s

Brother Jerry Richards served for 20 years as an Advisor for

Daughters for 16 years as an adult, including Past Bethel Guardian

Chester Pike Chapter, Order of DeMolay, where he is a past chapter

and several other positions. She held several positions in the Grand

advisor and currently serves as Advisory Council Chairman. He’s

Line, including Past Grand Guardian in 2015-2016 and will be serving

a Past Master of Richmond-Solomon’s Lodge No. 3 and is active

a second term as Grand Guardian beginning later this year.

24

Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation www.pmyf.org

Pennsylvania Freemason

DeMOLAY: MORE THAN JUST A FRATERNITY CAMPAIGN Recognizing the importance of a comprehensive membership recruitment program for Pennsylvania (PA) DeMolay, in October 2019, DeMolays Jacob Beers, Past State Master Councilor, and Patrick Eisworth, Region E Representative, applied for and received a grant

committee is always happy to hear new ideas and share them for other chapters to use.

Please email “Dad” Mike Larkin, director of membership, at Mlgarden@verizon.net, or call 717-512-2367 with any questions.

from the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation to underwrite a comprehensive membership recruitment program. Beginning Dec. 7, 2019, PA DeMolay made a commitment to waive the $35 Life Membership Fee through 2021, and several chapters have already taken advantage of it.

Realizing that recognition of new members is essential, the program also includes the presentation of a special gift to each new member: the Kick Start Bag. These screen-printed PA DeMolay drawstring bags include all the basic items to kick-start a new member’s DeMolay career: a ritual book, the new PA DeMolay lapel pin and a new DeMolay More than Just a Fraternity T-shirt. A supply of bags has been provided to each chapter to be presented to new members when they are obligated.

Many new ideas from members and advisors have been discussed and will be highlighted on the new and improved PA DeMolay website, including the use of billboards, professionally produced recruitment videos and radio station interviews. The membership

MOUNT JOY ASSEMBLY FORMS A few years ago, the Buds Pledge Group of Rainbow for Girls began in Mount Joy for girls ages 6 - 10. The girls took part in crafts, learned important lessons and enjoyed snacks with their friends.

On Jan. 25, four of the older girls were initiated into Rainbow by the Grand Officers to be part of the new Mount Joy Assembly No. 35 that meets at the Donegal Masonic Center in Mount Joy. On Feb. 23, the Assembly held its first Installation of Officers attended by R.W. Grand Master Thomas Gamon, IV; Grand Lodge Officers; District 1 Lodge Officers; and supporters. Miss Sarah Hamm was installed as the Assembly’s first Worthy Advisor.

May 2020

Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation www.pmyf.org 25

PHILANTHROPY

BOARD MEMBER FEATURE:

BRUCE A. ROBINSON One way Bruce has been making a difference is by serving on the Masonic Villages’ board of directors since 2015.

“The Mission of Love means a lot to me; it’s what we’re about,” Bruce said. He contributes his expertise in management and fiscal responsibility as a member of the Admissions, Home Assistance and Resident Services and Human Resources committees.

Bruce has served as General Manager of Laurel Valley Golf Club in Ligonier, PA, since 1990. Previously, he was the General Manager of Kahkwa Club in Erie and Bellefonte Country Club in Ashland, KY. He earned his bachelor’s in political science from Westminster College. A certified Club Manager since 1981, he is a member of the Club Managers Association of America. He twice served as President of the Pittsburgh Chapter, then as its Executive Director from 1990 - 2016.

Bruce also served on the board of directors for the Hempfield One might say Bruce Robinson’s vocation tee’d up his

Area Hockey Association, Westmoreland County, including as

Masonic involvement. For the past 46 years, Brother Bruce has

President; and on the board of the Pennsylvania Interscholastic

managed golf and country clubs. In 1999, his landscape supervisor

Hockey League. He served as a member of the board of directors,

was his first-line signer; the late Brother Arnold Palmer was his

finance and executive committees for Adelphoi USA, which offers

second-line signer. Although he resided in Greensburg at the

treatment and education services for abused, neglected, delinquent

time, he joined Ligonier Lodge No. 331, where 21 of his relatives

and other at-risk children and their families, and as Chairman of

belonged.

its education division. In addition, he has served on the board of

A highlight of Bruce’s Masonic career was during his lodge’s

directors for the Commercial Bank and Trust of PA, in Latrobe,

150 anniversary in 2009, when as Worshipful Master, he conferred

including as Audit Chairman and serving on numerous committees.

the first degree on 13 brethren, including his son, Jeffrey. “We

A past President of Ligonier Rotary Club, Bruce is a recipient of the

brought in over 30 members that year,” he recalled.

Paul Harris Fellowship Award.

th

Bruce’s involvement in Freemasonry continued to grow; in

He was elected to the roles of Commissioner for the City

addition to his involvement in several appendant bodies, he is an

of Bellefonte, KY; Ligonier Valley School Board President; and

Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, 33°, and a recipient of

Ligonier Township Supervisor.

the Order of DeMolay Legion of Honor.

“One of the big things I enjoy about Freemasonry is you get

Bruce is an avid collector of Masonic memorabilia, golf-related items and tobacco cards from the early part of the century. He

to meet so many people across the state whom you otherwise

also enjoys going to hockey, football and baseball games. He is a

wouldn’t meet,” Bruce said. “It’s been a wonderful experience

member of Convenant Presbyterian Church in Ligonier and serves

knowing I can go to meetings and functions, talk with great men

on the Finance Committee.

and know we’re making a difference in people’s lives.”

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Masonic Villages www.masonicvillages.org

Pennsylvania Freemason

GIVING BACK TO THE FRATERNITY THAT SHAPED HIM When it was time to decide how they were going to distribute their assets, Brother Harold R. Snyder and his wife, Monica, said the decision was easy. The couple has no children, and their immediate families are successful and thriving. Donating to charity was the easy decision, and deciding on the charity was even easier, they said.

Harold, P.D.D.G.M.-12 and member of Fidelity Lodge No. 655, Wilkes-Barre, and Monica recently made a very generous legacy gift to the Masonic Villages and Masonic Children’s Home.

“We’ve always been a strong proponent of charity,” Harold said. “When we had to decide which charity – the organization and fraternity has meant so much to our family – it was a no brainer for us. It was the first thing we both said, frankly.”

Growing up, Harold was surrounded by people for whom he had great respect. As he grew older, he soon realized that nearly all of them – from his uncles and neighbors to his mother and father – had one thing in common – Freemasonry and the Order of the Eastern Star.

“I joined DeMolay as a teenager, and when I was of age, I

had visited the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown and the Masonic

couldn’t wait to be part of such a great fraternity,” he said. “In the

Children’s Home. Last November, during one of his work trips, he

trying times of my life, it has kept me grounded … As I look back

stopped on campus for a few hours to see how it had changed.

at my adult life, nearly every good thing that I’ve encountered had some relationship to Freemasonry.”

“I was absolutely amazed at the progression that had taken place and the amenities and the way the facility looked and operated,” he

In 2016, Harold lost his parents, who were members of

said. “I stopped to chat with a couple of people, and they were all

Freemasonry and Eastern Star. “These two faces were more than

just wonderful. If I was 99% sure we made the right decision, after

a foundation for the person I am, but also a constant reminder that

I visited, I was 110% sure.

living by a solid world view and being open to new experiences and

“Subsequently, we both were driving through the area for a visit,

people, allows for a lifetime of growth and fulfillment. Freemasonry

and my wife wanted to see the campus. We walked around. and she

has reinforced these tenets for me, as well.”

said the same thing, ‘This is the right decision for us.’”

Harold was born and raised in Pennsylvania, but he and Monica

If you are interested in remembering the Masonic Charities

moved to Ohio 20 years ago for his job as Commercial Property

in your Will, or if you have already done so and want to join the

Technical Director for Nationwide Insurance. For work, he travels

Franklin Legacy Society, please call 1-800-599-6454 to speak with

a route from Illinois to Maine. It had been nearly 23 years since he

a gift planner near you.

May 2020

Masonic Villages www.masonicvillages.org

27

PHILANTHROPY

Dear Brothers, On behalf of the employees and residents of our Masonic Villages, I write to thank you and your families and friends for the overwhelming support we have received from the Grand Lodge, Blue Lodges and Pennsylvania Masons. Let it be known that Pennsylvania Masons have stepped up in a big way to support our Masonic Villages during this unprecedented and uncertain period in our history.

In response to the Grand Master’s call to action for donations of masks and other personal protective equipment (PPE) for our staff caring for our Masonic Villages residents, we have received from lodges and Pennsylvania Masons hundreds of hand-sewn masks that we have provided to residents and employees at all of our campuses. I learned that the mask given to me was hand made

by Linda Jackson, the wife of R.W. Past Grand Secretary, Brother Tom Jackson. Past District Deputy Grand Master Tim Pletcher secured and delivered 40 N95 masks and sandwich trays to our Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill. Another Pennsylvania Mason, who wishes to remain anonymous, made a very generous donation of N95 masks and surgical masks. Other Pennsylvania Masons have donated long-sleeve shirts, choir gowns and raincoats that have been put to use as medical gowns. In addition, we have received tens of thousands of dollars (checks continue to arrive daily) for the purchase of PPE. The Grand Lodge Officers led an effort of Pennsylvania lodges to have flowers delivered to every accommodation across our system before the Easter and Passover holidays – more than 2,000 in total. This remarkable effort had an amazing impact on our residents. Our campus Executive Directors and I have received countless phone calls and thank you cards from our residents, and they continue to fill our mailboxes daily. Many were brought to tears by the gesture, finding hope and comfort in the kindness of Pennsylvania Freemasons. Many other Pennsylvania Masons have made generous donations of adult coloring books, crossword puzzles, word finds and other items for our residents through our Sending Smiles Program.

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Masonic Villages www.masonicvillages.org

Our board, under the leadership of our Grand Master, has provided steady and unwavering support. They took quick action to secure the financial resources for us to provide bonuses and free or substantially discounted meals to our front line caregivers and onsite employees. They also approved and supported the many safety measures we have instituted across our campuses, which enable our staff to care for our residents with confidence. Words cannot express the gratitude of our employees.

Throughout this period, our Trustees have worked diligently and professionally to make prudent and thoughtful decisions for our investment program.

Brethren, rest assured that Freemasonry is alive and well at our Masonic Villages. I see it every day in the leadership of our Grand Lodge, Board and Trustees, in the support we receive from Pennsylvania Masons and their families, and in the hearts, souls and dedicated work ethic of our employees.

You should also know that neither our Masonic Youth Foundation or Masonic Library and Museum have sat idle during this time. Among other things, our Masonic youth are organizing and supporting meal preparation and delivery to those in our local communities who suffer from food insecurity, and our dedicated staff in Philadelphia must still care for our magnificent Masonic Temple even as it is shut down for tours, lodge meetings and events.

Sincerely and fraternally,

William L. Kingsbury

CEO, Masonic Villages of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Freemason

Plan Now for Your Stress-free Future

Do you have a retirement strategy?

We’re not talking Medicare benefits or retirement accounts, but something much simpler – a single sheet of paper that may guarantee a stress-free future: Masonic Villages’ Priority Waiting List. Many continuing care retirement communities have a waiting list, and Masonic Villages’ are growing longer each day. Even if you’re considering a move years from now, join the list today so we’re ready when you are. This small step now can help you get the home of your choice in the future.

Join Us for a Virtual Presentation!

Call the community you’re interested in below for available times.

Masonic Village at Dallas: 570-446-5658 Masonic Village at Elizabethtown: 717-473-0614 Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill: 484-535-3119 Masonic Village at Sewickley: 724-242-5099

Where Caring is a Tradition

The Masonic Village at Warminster provides residents with comfort, companionship and a life of dignity and security. The staff is dedicated to providing each resident a gratifying lifestyle while accommodating individual needs. Offering quality nursing care and personal care services, the mission of the Masonic Village at Warminster includes serving individuals in Philadelphia County who are day-one Medicaid recipients.

For a tour or for more information, call 215-672-2500, or email MVWadmissions@masonicvillages.org.

850 Norristown Road • Warminster, PA 18974

MASONIC VILLAGES’ ADMISSIONS POLICY Decisions concerning admission, the provision of services and referrals of residents are not based upon the applicant’s race, color, religion, disability, ancestry, national origin, familial status, age, sex, limited English proficiency (LEP) or any other protected status.

Regardless of your financial situation, you can afford to move to a Masonic Village! When you choose to live at the Masonic Villages, you are not required to turn over your assets; you maintain complete control of them. Generous donations enable Masonic Village to offer financial assistance to those who qualify.

It is required that your financial resources are preserved for the cost of your care and services, and our staff will help you to identify all available financial assistance when needed. Fraternal care offerings vary by community.

Contact the Admissions or Marketing Office at the Masonic Village of your preference for information on the living area desired. Visit www.masonicvillages.org.

May 2020

Masonic Villages www.masonicvillages.org

29

PHILANTHROPY

DO YOU KNOW A CHILD OR FAMILY IN NEED? Nearly 107 years ago, Pennsylvania Masons created the

“We help to provide children with a life they otherwise wouldn’t

Masonic Children’s Home for orphans. Since then, Masons have

have,” Assistant Director of the Children’s Home, Brother Mark

continued to support the children’s home as it has grown and

Kurzenknabe, Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, Harrisburg, said, “so

evolved to help children from various situations.

I’m asking Masons out there to consider whether the families and the

From individual and lodge fundraisers, donations and planned giving, Masons have devised unique ways to ensure the 40 youth

children they may know would be a good fit. You can change their lives forever.”

living at the children’s home are taken care of. Located on the

To be eligible for admission to the Masonic Children’s Home,

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown campus, the children’s home is

the child must be school aged (1st - 12th grade), a U.S. citizen and

open to school-aged children across Pennsylvania. The children live

have a guardian who resides in Pennsylvania. In addition, the child

within five cottages and attend Elizabethtown Area School District.

must have a need for placement; for example: the child is being

Thanks to donors (as the Masonic Children’s Home receives

raised by aging grandparents; living in an unsafe environment; has a

no government funding), the children receive shelter, food, medical

parent(s) incarcerated; has a financial need or has experienced loss

care, security, personalized academic tutoring and opportunities to

of housing.

participate in extracurricular activities.

Children who have the following characteristics are not eligible

If you know of a child or family who you think may be in

for the Masonic Children’s Home: aggressive behaviors, has been

need of our children’s home, please provide them with the contact

in an in-patient treatment/residential program, is currently pregnant,

information below. You can also call the children’s home to discover

has a history of fire starting or running away, has any involvement

whether that child or family may qualify.

with the police or has been in a detention center, has substance

To think of a child or family who may benefit from the children’s home, ask yourself: Do you have friends who are raising their grandchildren or even great-grandchildren? Are you an educator, guidance counselor or social worker? Do you know a child who might need help? Does your church or community have an outreach program? Is there a family in the program who could benefit from the children’s home?

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Masonic Villages www.masonicvillages.org

abuse problems, or has major school discipline or attendance issues.

For more information, please contact us:

Masonic Children’s Home

One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022 Phone: 717-367-1121, ext. 33301 Email: children@masonicvillages.org

Pennsylvania Freemason

Qty Item Unit Cost Masonic Village at Dallas 1 Phillips headStart AED (defibrillator) $1,275 Masonic Village at Elizabethtown 10 Mobility shuttle rides $15 250 Fluoride treatments $20 9 Local restaurant gift cards for residents who $20 exhausted funds 8 Baseball tickets $25 18 Hair care service gift cards for residents who $25 exhausted funds 10 Clothing gift cards for residents who $50 exhausted funds 4 Massages or Healing Touch™ for pain $65 5 Wellness memberships $120 4 Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) $350 5 All weather courtyard armchairs (set of 4) $400 1 Sensory LED bubble wall $425 1 3-D printer $500 1 Living room matching end tables $500 4 Gliders $1,650 2 Blanket warmers $2,600 1 Chair scale $4,300 1 Camping trip for Bleiler Caring Cottage $5,000 Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill 1 Jukebox $1,450 1 Upright piano $8,000 Masonic Village at Sewickley 1 Portable sound system for RL Dining Room $1,000 1 Outdoor movie screen and projector $2,000 1 Recording technology system $3,000 1 Nordic wellness chair $8,500 1 “It’s Never 2 Late” computer system $9,000 1 Replace Assembly Room projector $9,977 Masonic Village at Warminster 1 Enlarge small pond in courtyard $35,000 Masonic Village Hospice 1 Ticket to local baseball game $13 1 Gift card to local restaurant $50 1 Gift card to local grocery store delivery $75 1 Gift card to local spa $100 Masonic Children’s Home 1 Indoor flag and flag stand $300 1 Podium and microphone $300 1 Electronic equipment $500

May 2020

MASONIC VILLAGES’

2020

WISH LIST

OFFICE OF GIFT PLANNING

1-800-599-6454

Thank you to those who have provided for the following items for residents between Sept. 1 - Dec. 31, 2019:

MASONIC VILLAGE AT ELIZABETHTOWN W. Ronald and Mary Ann Aument: Hair care gift certificates John H. and Donna Beiseigel: Exercise machine Richard G. and Charleyne M. Calabro: Camping trip Wayne M. and Nancylee Garafola: Various items Sue Weitzel Joines: Special meal service Sally A. Kinzey: Electric lift chair recliners Sherwood L. and Jean A. Kneebone: Hair care gift certificates Masonic Village Piecemakers Quilting Club: Wheelchairs Michael, Rebecca and Laura Maxwell: Jigsaw puzzle spinners and stands James J. and Virginia McCall: Books and magazines for library Rosemary M. Merwin: Hair care gift certificate Richard A. and Diane M. Miller: Blanket warmer and wheelchair James B. Petrondi: Special meal service events Henry F. Scheck, Jr.: Wheelchair ponchos Walter C. and Susan Service, III: Mobility shuttle ride and portable CD player Patricia Thompson: Hair care gift certificate Harry L. and Peggy E. Wheeler: Books for library Jayne L. White: Hair care service gift certificate MASONIC VILLAGE AT LAFAYETTE HILL Richard Vaux Brotherhood Lodge No. 126: Trip for residents MASONIC VILLAGE AT WARMINSTER Lodge No. 9: Wheelchair scale and lift MASONIC VILLAGE HOSPICE Donald A. and Mary B. Bagshaw: Local restaurant gift card Sherwood L. and Jean A. Kneebone: Local restaurant gift card Nancy L. Pfahler: Gift cards to spa and transportation cost Walter C. and Susan Service, III: Hospitality cart supplies MASONIC CHILDREN’S HOME Grace M. Adkins: Various items Wayne M. and Nancylee Garafola: Various items Lodge No. 9: Gliders and pots and pans Brian A. and Kristin M. Maxwell: Sport equipment Ronald A. and Judy A. McKnight: Various items There is an all-inclusive wish list posted on MasonicCharitiesPA. org, or feel free to contact the Office of Gift Planning at 1-800-599-6454. Please note that if funds donated for any item listed are over- subscribed, the funds will be used for additional wish list items or needs in the same service area.

Masonic Charities www.masoniccharitiespa.org

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Guaranteed Lifetime Income What Is It?

• A “Charitable Gift Annuity” - a special type of irrevocable charitable gift that pays donors for life.

What Are The Benefits?

• Guaranteed, fixed lifetime income • Tax savings

Who Has Participated?

• Hundreds of Masonic and non-Masonic donors

Why?

• Payouts benefit the donor; and • After the donor passes on, whatever is left in the gift annuity goes to the Masonic Charities.

What Are The Minimums?

• $5,000 gift in cash or appreciated securities • Age 65

Where Can I Get Information?

• Call Masonic Charities at 1-800-599-6454 or mail the reply form.

COMPLETE AND MAIL THIS FORM TO:

Office of Gift Planning, One Masonic Dr., Elizabethtown, PA 17022 Telephone 1-800-599-6454 I would like more information, with no obligation. Please:  Send me a Charitable Gift Annuity illustration.

Name(s)__________________________________________________________ Address__________________________________________________________ Telephone: ( )_____________________________________________ Email:___________________________________________________________ My birth date____________ Spouse’s birth date____________ (if two lives) Dollar amount(s) to be illustrated (up to three amounts)_________________ _________________________________________________________________ If using appreciated stock, estimate cost basis__________________________  Call me to answer my questions. Phone (

) _______________________

Age 70 75 77 81 85 90+

SAMPLE GUARANTEED LIFETIME RATES For One Life For Two Lives Rate Age Rate 5.1% 70 & 75 4.8% 5.8% 75 & 80 5.3% 6.2% 85 & 85 6.9% 7.2% 85 & 90 7.5% 8.0% 90 & 90 8.6% 9.0% 90 & 95 8.8%

Note: This is a partial listing. Rates exist for any combination of ages.

www.MasonicCharitiesPa.org 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 1-888-236-6167. New Jersey: INFORMATION FILED WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL CONCERNING THIS CHARITABLE SOLICITATION AND THE PERCENTAGE OF CONTRIBUTIONS RECEIVED BY THE CHARITY DURING THE LAST REPORTING PERIOD THAT WERE DEDICATED TO THE CHARITABLE PURPOSE MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE ATTORNEY GENERAL BY CALLING (973) 504-6215 AND IS AVAILABLE ON THE INTERNET AT www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ocp.htm#charity. REGISTRATION WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT. New York: A copy of the latest annual report can be obtained from the organization or from the Office of the Attorney General by writing the Charities Bureau, 120 Broadway, New York, NY 10271. North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 1-888-830-4989. Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of Masonic Charities may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free, within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Virginia: Financial statements are available from the State Office of Consumer Affairs, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23218. Washington: The notice of solicitation required by the Charitable Solicitation Act is on file with the Washington Secretary of State, and information relating to financial affairs of Masonic Charities is available from the Secretary of State, and the 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.