The Pennsylvania Freemason - Spring 2022

THE PENNSY FREEMASON

VOL. LXXX

©2022 The R.W. Grand Lodg

EDITORIAL

Chairman

Jeffrey M. Wonderling, R.W.G.M.

Larry A. Derr, R.W.D.G.M.

Robert D. Brink, R.W.S.G.W. P.J. Roup, R.W.J.G.W.

Adam C. Heese, R.W.G.T.

Mark A. Haines, R.W.G.S.

EDITORIAL

Tina L. Lutter - Production Coordinato

Megan L. Frame - Graphic Designer

Pennsylvania M Masonic Libr

(Publication No. USPS 426-140) Spring 2022 Issue of The Pennsylvania Freemason is 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) Spring 2022, 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: Jeffrey M. Wonderling. 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 87,000 each quarter. I certify that the statements made by me are correct and complete.

Jeffrey M. Wonderling, IV, Editor

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 Mission Advancement and Development at 1-800-599-6454 or giving@masonicvillages.org.

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

10 Membership

Brethren Offer Hope Through Music • From Nurse to Author: Brother Publishes His Experience to Help Others • Rifling Through Family History • Remembering a Masonic Legend • Creative Carving • A Walking Advertisement for Freemasonry • Widows Sons Ride for Charity • The Making of a Master Builder

24 Education

Masonic Library & Museum Speaker Series • A Charitable Alternative to Disposing of Your IRA

26 Philanthropy

Masonic Charities’ 2021 Gratitude Report • Call for Entries for the Grand Exhibition • New Leadership Named for Masonic Villages • Forging the Future: The Role of an Adult Volunteer

View the magazine online!

a Tree

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.

Grand Master’s Message

What’s in it for me?

You may not recall, but each of us was made aware there are rights and privileges that, as a member of the fraternity in Pennsylvania, you are entitled to. Throughout my travels, I have repeatedly asked the brethren assembled a simple question: “By a show of hands, how many have had your rights and privileges explained to you?” Only a few at any gathering responded they had. Even at the Annual Grand Communication in Pittsburgh, with approximately 600 Masons in attendance, less than 10 responded affirmatively. I believe understanding all aspects of your membership is critical to you having a positive experience as a Mason. So, what are our rights and privileges?

To begin, there are tangible and intangible benefits. The many tangible benefits include, but are not limited to:

• Access to temporary financial assistance during tough times for qualifying members

• Priority admission to the Masonic Villages based on need, regardless of the ability to pay

• A Widows’ Guild to ensure those who have supported their spouse’s Masonic affiliation are properly cared for

• Free membership in the Masonic Blood+Organ Donor program, which provides free blood products to its members and their loved ones and advice and assistance to those in need of an organ transplant

• Leadership training through lodge participation

• Personal growth through educational opportunities

• Access to one of the most expansive Masonic libraries and premier museums in the world

• Access to genealogy records

The intangible rights and privileges of Freemasonry, in my opinion, set us apart as the greatest fraternity the world has ever known. I highlight just a few of them:

• The “Masonic bond that exists between men that cannot be purchased or described” - R.W. Past Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon, 2010

• Being anywhere in the world and knowing you have friends

• Pride in knowing you are recognized by your peers as a good man, moral and true

• The safety net that supports a Mason in need

• The opportunity to meet with like-minded, upstanding men in your community

• The opportunity for accomplished men to give something back and for young men to improve themselves

• Increasing your network of quality men who you can both count on and trust

• The euphoria of giving, of making a difference through charitable contributions to exceptional charities. It is indeed better to give than to receive.

• Being part of an organization bigger than yourself: a fraternity of men who, for centuries, have been contributing to the betterment of all

Make no mistake, Freemasonry lives this passage from Proverbs each and every day: Iron sharpens iron, and man sharpens man.

I encourage every member to learn what you’ve signed up for, to understand all that is available to you. When educated as to these rights and privileges, members would rarely be suspended for non-payment of dues.

I ask you to participate in your lodge when able –anything from attending meetings or social events, to helping officers or assisting in meal preparation. Every member has something to contribute. I assure you, for those who give a little, the rewards are immense.

It is our duty as Americans, as citizens of the greatest country in the world, to set the standard. As the premier men’s organization in this country, isn’t it our calling as MASONS to set the example in our lodges and communities? That’s where it starts – with a grassroots effort for civility and decency.

If not Freemasons, who? If not now, when?

If you are comfortable with our country, do nothing. If you aren’t, participate and join with your brethren in making a difference.

Sincerely and Fraternally,

Jeffrey M. Wonderling, R.W. Grand Master

Annual Grand Communication

DEC. 27, 2021 |

PITTSBURGH, PA

Annual Business Communication

The following mergers were approved, effective Dec. 27, 2021:

• Nicholson Lodge No. 438 with Waverly Lodge No. 301, to be known as Waverly Lodge No. 301

• John A. Brashear Lodge No. 743 with DormontWhitehall Lodge No. 684, to be known as Greater South Hills Lodge No. 684

• Hobah Lodge No. 276 with John Jenks Lodge No. 534, to be known as John Jenks Hobah Lodge No. 276

• Lake Lodge No. 434 with Myrtle Lodge No. 316, to be known as Lake Myrtle Lodge No. 316

• Charles M. Howell Lodge No. 496 with Lamberton Lodge No. 476, to be known as Millersville Lodge No. 476

• McKinley-Struckrath Lodge No. 318 with Corinthian Lodge No. 573, to be known as Corinthian Lodge No. 573

It was resolved to amend The Ahiman Rezon in accordance with Article 25.01. Amend sections: 10.01 – Increase of Grand Lodge dues and fees, 13.44 – Appointment of Library and Museum Board of Directors and

9.01 – Granting Masonic funeral services for any member of a Blue Lodge.

The 2022 budgets were approved for the Grand Lodge and its affiliated charities.

Members, lodges and guests were present in person and virtually for the Open Annual Grand Communication.

R.W. Grand Master Thomas Gamon, IV, was pleased to receive distinguished guests from eight Grand Jurisdictions and 12 Masonic bodies.

Grand Master Gamon presented Outstanding Service Medals to Brothers Peter M. Kraus, Oasis Lodge No. 416, Edinboro; Jeffrey S. Moyer, Lodge No. 43, Lancaster; and Timothy L. Pletcher, Spring-

Ford Lodge No. 553, Royersford (pictured bottom, center). He presented the Honorary Membership Award to Brother Donald C. Jones, M.W. Grand Master of the M.W. Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, Prince Hall Affiliate (pictured middle, left).

In his final address, Grand Master Gamon stated the past two years simply did not go as planned due to the pandemic, but it was still a humbling experience. He thanked everyone for their understanding and support of him and lady Cheryl over the past eight years; they are eternally grateful and will cherish the memories the rest of their lives.

The Grand Lodge officers were then installed.

R.W. Grand Master Jeffrey M. Wonderling presented Brother Gamon with his Past Grand Master’s Jewel, Apron and Lapel Pin; the Past Grand Master’s Commission; the Pennsylvania Franklin Medal; and the Thomson Award for Saving a Human Life (pictured middle, center). He also announced the creation of the Thomas Gamon, IV, First Responder Scholarship Award.

R.W. Grand Secretary Mark A. Haines read the new appointments and recognized the outgoing District Deputy Grand Masters, new Grand Lodge Floor Officers, Grand Chaplains and Regional Instructors.

Grand Master Wonderling presented the 70-year Masonic Service Award to R.W. Past Grand Master Samuel C. Williamson (pictured bottom, right).

Grand Master Wonderling presented his Inaugural Address and was pleased to accept contributions totaling $50,000 for the Masonic Charities.

At the Annual Grand Banquet, Grand Master Wonderling presented the Outstanding Service Medal to Brother Joseph Reuter, W.M., (pictured bottom, left) for guiding the restructuring of Shrewsbury Lodge No. 432.

The Grand Master’s Outstanding Service Award is given to honor brethren who have distinguished themselves through service to their community, their blue lodge and their respective Grand Lodge.

June Quarterly Communication

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE GRAND LODGE:

You are hereby requested to attend the June Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania to be held on Saturday, June 11, at 10 a.m., at the Greater Johnstown Masonic Center, 130 Valley Pike; Johnstown, PA 15905. The live stream will start at 9:30 a.m. Use the QR code to attend virtually.

By Order of the R.W. Grand Master. Mark A. Haines, R.W. Grand Secretary

25th and FINAL

Saturday, Aug. 20

Held Outdoors at Christner's Grove, Near Dawson, PA (Follow Uncle Hiram’s Picnic Signs)

All Master Masons Welcome

Casual Dress: No shorts, blue jeans or collarless shirts

4 p.m.

Dinner will be served promptly, including a 12 oz. New York strip steak, baked potato, corn, tossed salad, rolls, butter and beverage.

5:30 p.m.

A Special Meeting of King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346, Connellsville

A special program is being planned. Dessert will be served after the meeting.

Tickets: $20 each Deadline is Aug. 13. Make checks payable to CDS Building Corporation. Please send a self-addressed stamped envelope with payment. Directions will be included with your return ticket order.

Pennsylvania Lodge of Research Stated Meeting

SATURDAY, JUNE 18, AT 1 P.M. CARBON LODGE NO. 242, 501 CENTER STREET, JIM THORPE, PA 18229

All meetings of the Pennsylvania Lodge of Research are open to all Masons. Scholarly papers on Masonic topics will be presented.

The Pennsylvania Lodge of Research is always looking for presentations on Masonic subjects that would be of interest to the membership.

If you would be interested in making a presentation at a future meeting, contact one of the officers.

Presenters Masonic dress

Officers Tuxedo (no tails, no gloves)

Members Coat and tie with member jewel

Save the date for the next Stated Meeting: Saturday, Dec. 10, Location TBD palodgeofresearch.org

Grand Master’s Central Region

Masonic Charity Golf Tournament

Saturday, July 16, at Irem Country Club, Dallas, PA

10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Registration 11 a.m. Lunch

12:30 p.m. Shotgun start

4:30 - 5:30 p.m. Social hour

5:30 p.m. Dinner and awards

Cost: $110 per golfer - includes greens fees, cart, lunch, social hour and dinner. Men and ladies welcome!

Sponsorships

Hole Sponsors: $100, Tee Sponsors: $150, Tournament Sponsors: $300

Those who pay by June 30 will be entered into a drawing to win $100!

To register golfers or a sponsorship, provide name, cell phone number, address and email, along with sponsorship selection, if applicable, and send with check payable to “Grand Lodge’s Charities” to Grand Lodge’s Golf Tournament, c/o Irem Country Club, 70 Ridgway Drive, Dallas, PA 18612. Registration must be received by July 5.

Phone: 570-675-7765, ext. 241

All proceeds benefit the Masonic Charities. For additional information, contact Ron Aungst, R.W.P.G.M., at 570-295-2560 or rwgm0607@verizon.net.

ANNUAL SPORTING CLAYS EVENTS

WESTERN EVENT

Sunday, Aug. 21

Register by Aug. 15

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

For more information, contact Ed Aiello at edaiello57@gmail.com or 412-496-4635.

EASTERN EVENT

Sunday, Sept. 11 Register by Sept. 5

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

For more information, contact Alan Beidel at alanbeidel@gmail.com or 717-658-3477.

SCHEDULE FOR BOTH EVENTS:

8:30 a.m. Registration and warm up 10 a.m. Shooting will begin promptly

Cost per person (includes breakfast & lunch):

Western event: $175 Eastern event: $155

$25 cost for non-shooter lunch, either event

Winners will be determined by the Lewis Class system. Chinese Auction, 50/50 and more!

Please check the event you wish to shoot:

□ Seven Springs Sporting Clays on Aug. 21 ($175)

□ Lehigh Valley Sporting Clays on Sept. 11 ($155)

Each event will be capped at 150 attendees. Shooters must provide their own ammunition. All proceeds benefit Grand Lodge operations.

Mail coupon below with payment to: Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania c/o Harry Rutter

Masonic Temple, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Total

Name:

Address:

City: State: Zip Code: Phone: Shooters

Shooter 1: Shooter 2: Shooter 3: Shooter 4:

# of shooters ______ x $175 or $155 = $___________

# of lunch only x $25 = $

Total: $

Indian Degree at the Indian Echo Caverns

24, Rain or Shine

The 4th biennial outside Low Vale Degree will be held at Indian Echo Caverns in Hummelstown, PA, directly above the cave in an open field near Swatara Creek. A modified Master Mason’s degree will be conferred by the visiting Oklahoma Masonic Indian Degree Team, comprised of Native American Freemasons from the jurisdiction of Oklahoma, which travels across the country to confer a unique Third Degree upon one of their candidates. For the second section of the degree, the officers change into full Native American regalia and deliver the Indian portion of the degree, while remaining in accordance with the

Oklahoma Grand Lodge ritual. This will be the first time it will be held in Pennsylvania, and more unique, on the property that was once home to the Susquehannock Indian Tribe in Pennsylvania.

A catered meal will be held from 4 - 6:30 p.m., during which the Indian Degree team will perform Indian dances. Optional tours of the caves will be available at 4:45 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., at $18 each and are limited to 25 people in a group. An email will go out closer to the event to inquire about the number of interested brethren to see if additional tours will be needed. The meeting will begin

at 7 p.m. A tent will be available, and string lights and tiki torches will illuminate the evening event.

The cost is $50 per brother, which includes a beautifully crafted, unique commemorative coin. Dress is business casual. Order your tickets now, because the Indian Degree usually sells out; either online through EventBrite at https://www.eventbrite. com/e/1st-time-in-pa-ephratalodge-hasoklahoma-indiandegree-indian-echo-cavestickets-156346054257 or email

Brother Jason A. Martin, P.M., at jamartin1016@comcast.net.

Innovative Investment Opportunity for Lodges

The Grand Lodge is pleased to announce that it has established an innovative investment program tailored to meet the needs of its Blue Lodges. The optional program features:

• Separate accounts for lodge funds

• Low annual fee of 0.45% (minimum fee of $250)

• No minimum account balance

• Seven pre-designed model portfolios matched to risk tolerances (including a cash/ short-term option for short-term cash needs, such as capital expenditures)

• Investment guidance from a dedicated team of investment professionals

• Online account access with downloadable statements

In order to obtain deeply discounted fees for Blue Lodges, Grand Lodge funded the program with $35 million from the Grand Lodge Consolidated Fund.

The purpose of the program is to help officers and trustees be good stewards of their lodge funds. The Grand Lodge does not receive any fees or other consideration in connection with the participation of Blue Lodges in the program.

To learn more about this exciting program, please contact: Brother Brian Maxwell, 412-398-0060 or bmaxwell@millcreekcap.com or Brother Todd Ockovic, 610-360-8639 or tockovic@pagrandlodge.org.

Brethren Offer Hope Through Music

For Brothers TJ Griffin and Jose Rios, Millersville Lodge No. 476, music isn’t just a hobby or a career, but a way to change lives.

It’s certainly changed theirs.

“We became close friends through music,” Jose said.

Through their organization, Creative Hope Studios, they construct music recording studios inside of juvenile detention facilities, rehab and treatment centers and schools and faith-based organizations that serve young people. Then, they train the staff at each location, so they can teach the youth they serve how to use the equipment to write, mix and record their own music.

“We’re part of juvenile justice reform – we bring innovation through music therapy into how we treat our at-risk and troubled youth,” TJ said.

Creative Hope Studios was born during the COVID-19 pandemic, which, like for many, interfered with TJ’s and Jose’s ability to do their work. TJ’s VISION Program (Values Inspiring Students In Overcoming Negativity) provides educational and motivational programming and workshops and mentorship opportunities for young people, particularly those coming out of the juvenile justice system. Jose is a founder of Dream Loud, whose portable music studios give at-risk youth a chance to learn music production, recording and engineering. With COVID-19 going around, providing services in juvenile facilities and treatment centers became impossible, with Zoom programming as the only option. That gave TJ and Jose an idea.

“We said, ‘Let’s give them what they’re already paying us to do, and teach them to do it themselves,’” TJ said.

They used this expertise, plus the knowledge and experiences gained from past careers in the music industry, to found Creative Hope Studios. Manos House, a residential treatment program for young men in Columbia, PA, managed by Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Services, Inc. (DARS), was one of the first recipients of a recording studio and mixing station.

Jose had built a studio for Manos House 10 years ago, and TJ’s status as a former employee and board member meant he had firsthand experience with its

program and facility structures. Many of their studio spaces start as former cells wired with electricity. The Manos House studio, with its corner couch, artwork and music books, in addition to recording space and equipment, feels particularly welcoming – a more homelike environment within an institutional one.

“It’s a creative space for the arts,” TJ explained.

Incentive-based programming means youth have to earn access to the studio through good behavior – by following both the facility’s rules and those from Creative Hope Studios, the latter of which include avoiding profanity and respecting the space, self and others. For many, this is the first time working toward a goal, one of many important life skills Creative Hope Studios teaches. Along with opportunities for teamwork and self-expression, it also offers hands-on career exploration in atmospheres where that’s often more difficult to come by.

“Some kids start to realize that they’re good at playing piano, mixing beats or writing,” TJ said.

Hearing their charges’ songs can provide clarity for staff and counselors regarding students’ personal history and previous environments. Many of the youth served by Creative Hope Studios are only incarcerated for petty crimes, or for doing nothing at all – just placed as a result of the overcrowded foster care system nationwide. They may not open up to the adults in charge normally, but things are different inside the recording studio.

“They really speak their mind on these songs,” Jose said. “It’s a different way of processing trauma.”

In the end, one of the most important things Creative Hope Studios offers is right in its name: hope.

“A lot of kids are really hopeless. These teens, a lot of them have nothing,” TJ said.

As former inner-city kids (Brooklyn, NY, and Lancaster, PA, respectively), Jose and TJ have insiders’ understanding of the surroundings that have influenced and impacted many of the teens they serve. They also understand how important music is to young people.

“We were immersed in hip-hop culture. It’s part of our DNA,” TJ said.

Direct messaging artists on MySpace led to a successful career booking, managing and producing for TJ. He worked with director and producer Zack Snyder (known for “Wonder Woman,” “300,” “Man of Steel” and “Watchmen”) on the soundtrack for his 2011 film “Sucker Punch.” Actor/rapper Ice-T is a close personal friend and mentor of TJ’s. (He even did an Instagram shout out for Creative Hope Studios during the ExtraGive, Lancaster County’s Annual Day of Giving!) Jose and TJ met through an artist TJ was managing at the time and became friends while working together. It was because of TJ that Jose became a Mason seven years ago.

“I was really intrigued by what TJ was going through and saw how excited he was about it,” Jose said.

TJ’s father, Todd Griffin, Sr., is a Prince Hall Mason; his stepfather, Brother Carlos Gascot, is a member of Millersville Lodge No. 476. TJ joined in 2014 and brought three friends into Freemasonry – Jose being one of them.

“It really changes how you think and talk and behave,” he said.

Through Creative Hope Studios, they can share their Masonic values with a younger generation and teach the young men in the program how men behave and how to be better men.

“The same way we are mentored by our older brothers in the fraternity is the way we mentor our younger youth,” Jose said.

Creative Hope Studios has expanded beyond Pennsylvania to work in several states, including Florida, Texas, Michigan and Tennessee. In the future, they hope to reach all 50. Participating in the Lancaster County ExtraGive netted $21,000 for the organization, which will go to building more studio spaces and reaching more young people.

“We just want to grow and serve as many youth as we can possibly serve,” Jose said.

“It’s time for something more innovative in juvenile justice. We need something youth and staff grasp onto and understand.”

To learn more about how to support Creative Hope Studios, visit www.creativehopestudios.com.

From Nurse to Author Brother Publishes His Experience to Help Others

“The book is an exceptional ‘must read’ for all family and caregivers dealing with a loved one with dementia,” Vicki Gillmore, R.N., Ph.D., retired Executive Director of Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, said.

“As I grew closer to retirement, I found myself reflecting on my career, and I began to realize how this special population has significantly impacted my life,” Rick said.

“Through the years of working closely with family members, hearing about the difficulties they faced as they had to deal with all the uncertainties of this condition, I realized there are so many people who are unprepared to deal with this. I was plagued with the idea that these people needed some kind of help.

“I always enjoyed writing, so I decided to work on this project. I wanted it to be simple and down-to-earth, easy to read and understand and something the average person could relate to.”

Brother Rick Schies, Mount Olivet Lodge No. 704, Lebanon, has devoted 26 years to nursing, 20 of which he spent caring for patients with dementia and helping their families navigate the challenges presented by the chronic and progressive condition.

A Guide for Those Facing Dementia

Although he retired in February, if the opportunity arises, Rick may continue in some capacity at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Whatever his job title, his knowledge will continue to guide families, thanks to his new book, “Dementia the Experience – A Family and Caregiver Resource.”

The first half of the book consists of case studies of everyday people. Rick introduces readers to Ralph, Cora, Charlie and other fictional patients. He describes the subtle, early behavioral changes which occur and the effect on their families.

In the second half of the book, Rick clarifies differences among vascular dementia, Parkinson’s dementia, Alzheimer’s dementia and others. He gives specific information

on medications, behaviors, motivation and safety.

“One of the most important aspects of the book is the focus on the caregiver and how to deal with a short attention span, wandering, dressing, cuing and other activities of daily living,” Vicki said. “He acknowledges the frustration families may feel and how and when to ask for assistance.”

With one book under his belt, Rick’s desire to reach out to family members and other caregivers has motivated him to write a second book. He is currently halfway through book two.

“The writing was fun, but the publishing piece of it was all new,” Rick said. “If it would not have been for a few close friends, I probably never would have been able to complete it.”

Making a Difference

Out of high school, Rick earned a degree in psychology and focused his career on the mental health field. Feeling an urge do more, Rick pursued a degree in nursing upon the encouragement of his wife, who had several nurses in her family. After time on a rehabilitation unit, he discovered he enjoyed working with older patients and transitioned into long-term care.

“I saw it as the next stepping stone in my career,” Rick said. “I began working with individuals who were diagnosed with dementia, and it wasn’t long until my passion began to grow, and I wanted to learn more about this condition.”

Rick joined Masonic Village at Elizabethtown in 2002 as the nurse manager for two of the memory support neighborhoods (units). His responsibilities ranged from resident care, meetings with families, staff scheduling and education to working with physicians and ensuring regulations and guidelines were being followed.

Rick always strove to make sure the staff felt supported and appreciated, because he believed everyone on the team was equally important and played a vital role in the residents’ care. One of the most important parts of his job was seeing the difference he could make in the lives of residents and staff.

“We can all make a difference,” he said. “It just takes a desire to do so. Those few moments it takes for you to kneel or sit down next to a resident to let them know you care, and seeing them smile, makes it all worthwhile.”

Even when his work day was over, his work and residents remained close to heart.

“You grow especially close to some, but there are those who may remind you of a close family member, just something about them that makes them extra special. You also have those family members who you grow close to through the years,” Rick said. “You can’t help but shoulder the burden they carry.”

Rick’s time at Masonic Village led him to consider becoming a Mason. After speaking with his uncle, the late Brother Paul D. Rittle, a long-time member of Mt. Olivet Lodge No. 704, he was encouraged to apply and has been a member of that lodge for 12 years.

“I believe my heart’s desire to serve God, family, country and neighbors ties in closely with the mission of Freemasonry,” he said.

Since Rick’s retirement from his nurse manager position, he has had more time to spend with his family, go fishing, do more photography, try some wood carving and painting and, of course, write. Through his writing, he’ll continue to fulfill his passion for helping those with dementia.

“The number of individuals diagnosed with dementia grows each year, and many family members are choosing to keep their loved one at home, so they need to know what to expect,” he said. “They need to understand there is support out there and what to do when they can no longer do it on their own. The dementia journey is a tough one, and it’s a journey no one should face alone.”

Rifling Through Family History

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Brother John D. Beck immersed himself in his family’s history involving Freemasonry and gun smithing.

One of his ancestors, John Phillip (J.P.) Beck (1751 – 1811), was a master gunsmith in Lebanon Township, Lancaster County. He took the oath of allegiance to Pennsylvania in 1778 and was paid to repair arms in Lancaster County for the militia from 1777 – 1781. John Phillip built a rifle for President and Brother George Washington that is currently on display at the Frazier Museum in Kentucky.

“I always had a close relationship with my grandfather, and he would always talk about the famous gunsmiths in the family, but I never knew how famous they really were,” John said. “When I started looking into it, I realized there was a lot more there.”

John, a member of Good Samaritan Lodge No. 336 in Gettysburg, discovered he was a 7th generation descendant of the legendary Buck gunsmiths of Lancaster and Chambersburg, PA. He became fascinated with the American Long Rifle, used during the Revolutionary War, and began studying its design and build.

“The long rifles incorporate Baroque style art – using spiraling vines and leaves – and it represents the inherent beauty of nature,” he said. “They [the rifles] are highly collectible and desirable. That fascination led me to building my own long rifle as traditionally as possible. I’ve built three and have two more in the works.”

John plans on donating one of the rifles, a replica of the George Washington rifle, to a museum. While it takes most professional gunsmiths between 40 to 60 hours to build a rifle, John said he spends well over 100 hours making his own.

“I have a background in carpentry, but carving and engraving is a whole new art form for me,” he said. “I practice a lot.”

John lives in the Susquehanna Valley, which he considers the “epicenter for history involving the

long rifle and its construction.” He began working as a carpenter in 2008. He worked for a master cabinet maker in Gettysburg as an apprentice honing the skills necessary for the craft. He started working on firearms in 2010 and launched a website about his family history in 2021.

“I have a full-time career as a police officer in Baltimore County, MD, but I create rifles on the side for the art and history of it,” John said. “Though I may sell one to you, I really make them for myself.”

Many of J.P. Beck’s rifles featured rococo relief carvings and silver inlays. His nephew, Christian Beck III, and his son, Christian Beck, Jr., became known as some of the greatest gunsmiths of the Golden Era. The Beck’s rifles are considered fine art held in museums and galleries across the globe.

John had the opportunity to study many American and European arms in museums and private collections, including the Smithsonian and the Pennsylvania Longrifle Museum in Nazareth, PA. That museum contains a substantial collection of original, hand-crafted, Pennsylvania long rifles and items related to the making of long rifles from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Pennsylvania Freemason

“Through careful examination and meticulous study, I attempt to take note of the small details of original rifles and strive to incorporate these aspects of authenticity into my own work,” John said.

Stocks are shaped from a blank using planes, spokeshaves, rasps and scrapers – creating a rifle that has a feel unlike anything made using modern techniques, John said.

“The modern guns are factory made, not hand made,” he explained. “They use a lacquer finish, a varnish, where traditional guns use a boiled linseed oil that creates a smooth clear coat. It almost feels like silk in your hand, but it is wood. The gun is tailored to the individual person, not an audience.”

Using many of the same hand tools and techniques as gunsmiths in the 18th century, John strives to give his work the look and feel of a fine quality original work.

“Subtle imperfections and mistakes are inherent in all handmade works,” he said.

John has presented research on the American long rifle at several Masonic lodges, including his own. The rifles are built using the sacred geometry of the Golden Ratio, also known as the Golden Mean. In mathematics, two quantities are in the golden ratio if their ratio is the same as the ratio of their sum to the larger of the two quantities.

“Freemasons are big on geometry and architecture and the ancient accomplishments of civilizations,” John said.

To learn more about the Beck family history and gun smithing, visit www.beckflintlocks.com.

Remembering a Masonic Legend

BROTHER THOMAS W. JACKSON, R.W. PAST GRAND SECRETARY Sept. 14, 1934 - Dec. 29, 2021

Brother Thomas “Tom” W. Jackson packed a lot of life into his 87 years.

Born in McKeesport, Tom moved to Shippensburg at age 12. Despite humble beginnings, he earned a bachelor of science degree in biology and chemistry from Shippensburg University and a master’s degree in zoology from Penn State University. He went on to lead a most intriguing life and was many things to many people. Here are just a few:

A Scout. At age 29, Tom joined Cumberland Valley Lodge No. 315 because he admired the local men who were Freemasons. “I saw men who I wanted to be like,” he explained, later becoming its Worshipful Master. An Eagle Scout, Tom found the two organizations quite similar because they both focus on patriotism, a belief in God and commitment to the betterment of mankind.

“Our goal is to take good men and make them better. Then, we expect those better men to lead society,” he explained. “It’s not our goal to change the world; it’s our goal to change the man. It’s up to the man to change the world.” Tom was a recipient of the Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award for his service to Boy Scouts of America and served as a Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster for four troops.

A Renaissance man. Tom worked in high steel, pool construction, general contracting, sales, education, law enforcement and farming. He taught Sunday school and was a substitute pastor. He was an avid outdoorsman, a worldwide traveler, an adventurer and a celebrity. He was made chief of an African village. His likeness was impressed on an official stamp of Brazil, and a lodge there was consecrated in his name.

A teacher. Teaching put a twinkle in Tom’s eye, whether it was focused on core subjects like chemistry, physics and biology or of the more esoteric Masonic genre. Though he left the classroom for a 20-year career as the Grand Secretary, he never stopped teaching. He taught through his lectures and writing, story-telling in small groups and in quiet moments of reflection, over an early morning coffee or a late-night Manhattan. He remained active in academic pursuits through scientific academy and association memberships.

A Masonic hero. Tom was the Warrant Master of the Pennsylvania Lodge of Research and served as Chairman of the Academy of Masonic Knowledge, Grand Secretary for Foreign Relations and the Committee on Foreign Recognition. His international contacts attracted some of the most knowledgeable and diverse Masonic speakers available to the Academy.

Tom, himself, spoke throughout the world, never accepting honorariums. Without a doubt, he helped build the world stage of influence for Freemasonry, in general, and Pennsylvania, in particular. He traveled to all 50 states and Canadian provinces. As a founder, the first Executive Secretary and then Honorary President of the World Conference of Grand Masters, Tom visited Grand Lodges in many different countries. He met the presidents of Portugal, Chile, Romania, Mozambique, Mali, Gabon, Chad and Congo, as well as former U.S. President George H. W. Bush. He was also hosted by several prime ministers. He received numerous honors and awards for his contributions as a mediator and advisor.

A member of over 50 Masonic organizations, not only did Tom hold lodge memberships in Wyoming, England, Italy, Peru, Morocco and Cyprus, but he was granted honorary memberships in 111 Grand Lodges around the world. He holds grand rank in 30 of these Grand Lodges, 14 as honorary Grand Master. He received awards and medals for distinguished service from nine Grand Lodges in the United States and 19 international Grand Lodges, including Yugoslavia, Romania, South Africa and Russia. There are awards given in his name annually to those who emulate his educational and leadership qualities. Tom’s numerous honors will be recognized in a special International Section of the George Washington Memorial in Alexandria, VA, and archived in the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia.

“It was his love of the fraternity and the understanding of its teachings and how those teachings can influence men and the world we live in that brought him the recognition as the most famous Mason in the world. That title is no exaggeration.”

– R.W. Past Grand Master S. Eugene Herritt

An expert on many subjects. A conversation with Tom would often take multiple detours – from an esoteric Masonic lesson to a dive into some arcane chapter of history or a tutorial on the mating habits of the Eastern North American Crimson Spotted Newt. He served on advisory boards for Shippensburg University, Franklin County Correctional Committee, National Collegiate Weightlifting Association, Freedoms Foundation and the Philadelphia Prevention Partnership Project. He was a member of the Pennsylvania Realtors Association, Pennsylvania Farmers Association, National Rifle Association, Pennsylvania State Grange, the Institute for Legislative Action and was a charter founder of the Second Amendment Task Force.

A tough guy. Tom played football in high school, wrestled in college and was an All American Weight Lifter. An ardent hunter and fisherman, his exploits were legendary. He was invited to bear hunts in Romania, to hunt the Chaco Forest of Paraguay and to fish the Amazon of Brazil. And yet, he loved his home on the farm. He made household pets of possums, woodchucks and other creatures. At heart, he was “just a poor little country boy from Shippensburg,” as he liked to describe himself.

“Many, including myself, considered Tom to be the most authentic, interesting man in the world. Indeed, I would often tease him with a line from the popular advertising campaign: ‘Superman has pajamas with your picture on the chest … The circus ran away to join you … Mosquitoes refuse to bite you out of respect … The Holy Grail is looking for you …’” – Brother William L. Kingsbury, CEO, Masonic Villages

A friend. The life of the party, Tom loved to laugh and sing and dance. He was charming. In his travels, he wined and dined with royalty and aristocrats, national heroes and people of prominence in countries most never heard of. Throughout the world, brethren respected the work Tom did for Freemasonry and the knowledge he freely shared through his research, his writings and his talks. But, truth be told, Tom was always most comfortable around old friends; he preferred the camaraderie of pie after a lodge meeting, breakfast at the local diner, seeing old friends at hunting camp or just dropping in a line at his favorite fishing hole. Tom relished the give and take; he could dish it out without being meanspirited and was never insulted by being the brunt of the joke. He had an inquisitive mind and was always open to new ideas. He enjoyed listening to the stories of others as much as he liked telling his own.

A volunteer. Tom served as a fireman, on the Pennsylvania State Forest fire crew, as a Deputy Sheriff and as President of the Shippensburg area Jaycees.

An author. Tom published a book called “Masonic Perspectives: The Thoughts of a Grand Secretary,” as well as articles in educational, scientific and Masonic journals and newspapers and publications throughout the world, some of which have been translated into more than a dozen languages and printed in over two dozen countries.

A loving husband. Tom is survived by his wife of 52 years, Linda, and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters: Donna, his twin, and Sandra.

Tom left a legacy of Masonic caring, Masonic learning and Masonic history. He would want every member who comes through our doors to have the opportunity to learn, grow and excel as a human being through the teachings of our Craft. While we lost a legend, we gained immeasurable wisdom and inspiration from knowing him.

Creative Ca RviNg

Ever since he was a child, Brother Jon DeHart has been drawing pictures and cartoons. In junior high school, to avoid being bullied, he began drawing caricatures of other kids.

“This one guy was bullying me, and I drew a picture of him as King Kong swatting at airplanes on top of the Empire State Building,” Jon said. “He thought it was the greatest thing ever, even though I was just making fun of him. After that, he was my protector. I picked up on the fact that a little bit of humor and doing caricatures was a good thing, sometimes.”

Jon, Past Master of St. John’s Lodge No. 435, Reading, has been creating art ever since. About four years ago, intrigued by wood carving, Jon decided to give it a try. “I started carving little people, the human form and faces,” he said. “I started using tree branches, then I purchased some wood and a knife from the craft store, and it kind of grew from there. Now, I carve on a regular basis.”

Jon was encouraged by a friend to enter The Masonic Library & Museum of Pennsylvania’s “Embodying Masonic Values” open art competition in 2021. The annual competition provides an opportunity for participants to explore Masonic values through art.

Jon won first place in the three-dimensional category for his carving, “First Pancake Breakfast,” consisting of three brethren at a kitchen table labeled, “All You Can Eat Pancake Breakfast.” In the piece, the breakfast is a fundraiser. The new brother has one pancake in front of him, while the two more seasoned brothers devour a whole stack of pancakes. The piece sold for $150.

“The notion just struck me as funny,” Jon said. “Masons are big on charity, and we love pancake breakfasts and spaghetti suppers. I said, ‘I can probably carve a pancake, but not spaghetti.’”

Jon also gifted a piece, “Fighting the Flames of Fraternal Indifference,” to then-R.W. Grand Master Thomas Gamon, IV. “It was a mashup of his Masonic and firefighting passions and accomplishments,” Jon explained.

Today, all of Jon’s artwork is three-dimensional, including the Christmas ornaments he carves and sells during the holidays. He also does some commissioned pieces. He primarily uses bass wood that he orders from a lumber mill in Wisconsin, because it’s the easiest material to work with. Using a bandsaw, knives, sharpening tools and gouges, he carves from his home garage, where he also paints and seals the pieces.

“Most of the time, on my bench I have two or three carvings going at once, and I swap back and forth to avoid boredom,” Jon said. “I rarely carve from start to finish all the way through.”

A 33° Mason, Jon had mostly carved items with a Masonic bent. But in recent years, his ideas have become more general. He has been involved with Freemasonry for 39 years, first as Worshipful Master of his lodge and then as Treasurer and a committee member. Twenty-one years after he was named Master for the first time, he was made Master again for two more years.

“I still fill in and do funeral services when necessary,” Jon said. “I confer degrees if they need help with that. I often get invited to give talks [about my art] at lodge meetings.”

Jon considers wood carving to be a “subtractive medium,” meaning you need to remove a lot of wood to get something underneath that is hopefully better than the block you started with, he said.

“There are a lot of correlations between wood carving and Masonic teachings,” he said. “Chipping away at our rough edges gets us to a smoother place. You should be a better person today than when you started.”

There is also a good bit of geometry in wood carving, as you’re working with shapes, Jon said. “The biggest challenge, besides not cutting your fingers off, is that sometimes the wood does what the wood wants to do. To get the idea from your head onto a block of wood is probably the toughest thing. If you have basic know-how and a few of the right tools, you can probably get down to something close.”

Jon is a self-taught artist, although he has taken some carving classes via Zoom.

“It’s about constantly learning new techniques,” he said. “For every 100 wood carvers you talk

to, you get 100 different approaches to how to carve something. Everyone is a little different. It’s neat to learn a new technique here or there.”

A member of the Lancaster County Woodcarvers for about three years, Jon won Best in Class ribbons at the club’s 47th Annual Woodcarving and Wildlife Art Festival in Millersville, PA, in March.

Jon, who lives in Reading and grew up in Berks County, has a day job as a marketing editor for an engineering company. He has a bachelor’s degree in communications from Temple University and spent 10 years working in radio as program and promotions director for stations such as WIOV, WSBA and WRFY-FM.

Jon said he plans to continue carving objects as they strike his fancy. He will continue working on new pieces, many of which he will share on his popular Facebook page.

“I haven’t set up a website because I don’t want it to look like I’m actively selling, because then I’ll get too many commission requests,” he said. “It sucks the creativity and enjoyment out of the hobby. I don’t want that to happen.”

A Walking Advertisement For Freemasonry

Brother Alvin E. Just is not one to brag – at least not about himself. The fraternity, however, is a different story.

A 25-year member of Greater Johnstown Lodge No. 538, Alvin was recently awarded The Order of the Purple Cross of York, the highest honor of the York Rite Sovereign College. He is also a 33° Mason, the highest honor in the Scottish Rite, and a member of the Order of the Knights Templar.

Alvin was nominated by his peers and profiled by the local newspaper for his fraternal achievements, but he is somewhat embarrassed by all the attention.

“I usually don’t like to advertise too much about me and my achievements because there are plenty of other Masons in the state of Pennsylvania who are worthy of words and honors,” Alvin said. “They are all good men. I just got lucky to get recognized.”

Alvin said his purpose in life is to “be a teacher” and to educate the public about Freemasonry. Prior to becoming a Mason, he served as Past Master Councilor for Pennsylvania DeMolay. He has held nearly every role in his lodge and said he’s always there to help in any capacity. He also served as a District Deputy Grand Master of District 41.

“I knew I couldn’t be a police officer, a doctor, a school teacher, a fireman, a nurse or an EMT,” he said. “I couldn’t be in the military. I couldn’t do those things to help people. Those people are heroes. I joined the fraternity and decided I would do my best to make the community and world a better place through helping good people become better.”

Alvin, a former advertising agency owner and artist, is currently a member of 26 different Masonic bodies, many of them invite-only. He said he needs to be a “magician in time management” in order to divvy up his time among all the organizations.

“I’m not alone – there are so many of us who just love what we do,” he said. “Freemasonry is my full-time job.

I devote at least eight hours a day to the fraternity.”

When he has free time, Alvin teaches oil painting at various community arts centers and creates his own work at JustArt, his art studio and supply store. He is also the owner of Sports Center Advertising, a supplier of print materials for restaurants and sports-related businesses.

Alvin is Secretary/Treasurer of the Johnstown Masonic Temple Association. The Temple has about 800 members who belong to either Cambria Lodge No. 278 or Greater Johnstown Lodge No. 538.

“Not only do we have weddings and receptions there, but we have business meetings, too,” he said. “We have organizations that use our building. I think we do a good job in Johnstown of informing the public who we are. The word is getting out. It just took a long time because in the past, our members didn’t want to tell anyone. They thought it was a big secret.”

Alvin is happy to dispel any myths and rumors about the fraternity, including that it’s a “cult” or a “secret society.”

“That’s the biggest hurdle we have today and in the future – educating the public as to who we are and what we do,” he said. “We feed the hungry, clothe the poor. We are the largest charitable fraternity in the world, and our mission in life is to help. People just need to be educated and informed. How can someone join the fraternity if they don’t know anything about us?”

On a personal note, Alvin said Freemasonry has changed his life. He said he didn’t like who he was before joining the fraternity. “I didn’t care so much about helping other people,” he said. “I just thought more about myself. In Freemasonry, we always use the phrase ‘we’re searching for the true light,’ or more knowledge. That’s why I joined so many different Masonic organizations. I knew each of them would offer me a different lesson and together, they’d make me a better person.”

Ricky Fetzer, President of the Johnstown Masonic Temple Association and Secretary of Greater

Johnstown Lodge No. 538, works hand in hand with Alvin and nominated him for the Purple Cross award. He calls him “the glue that holds the Masonic Temple together and protects the fraternity.”

“Over the years, I’ve relied on Alvin,” he said. “He was always on top of making sure we didn’t make mistakes and were following Masonic law. He is the steering wheel or rudder of the ship that would keep us all on course. He’s still like that today. He’s a positive person and willing to do the things that need to be done.”

To other men out there who are considering joining the fraternity, Alvin offers the following advice: Do your research.

“Go to the Grand Lodge website and review what’s on it, take a tour of the building, talk to somebody in your local lodge, set up a meeting,” he said.

“All you have to do is ask. I am a walking advertisement for the fraternity. Everything I own has a Masonic emblem. When people ask what Freemasonry is about – oh boy do I educate them. ‘Freemasonry is many things, but most of all, it’s a way of life.’”

Brother Alvin is a true testament to that ideal.

Photo courtesy of the Tribune-Democrat taken in the Egyptian Room of the Johnstown Masonic Temple.

Widows Sons Ride for Charity

Members of the Pennsylvania (PA) Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association enjoy riding their motorcycles and giving back to the community.

They accomplish both through the annual Grand Master’s Charity Ride. All proceeds from the event go to Masonic charities within the state, mainly the Masonic Children’s Home of Pennsylvania.

The goals of the Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association are to contribute to the aid and relief of Masonic widows and orphans and to introduce Freemasonry to the world of motorcycling. The group also supports various individual charities in the community through motorcycle events, rides and raffles.

The Grand Master’s Charity Ride is the largest fundraiser for the PA Widows Sons. Last year’s event, held on July 17, raised a record $14,000 for the Masonic Children’s Home, said Brother Jonathan DeLuca, state President of the PA Widows Sons and Past Master of Mozart Lodge No. 436, Philadelphia.

More than 100 Pennsylvania members, as well as members from out-of-state chapters, participated in a large rally following the ride. Nearly 200 bikes were represented in the ride, which lasted about an hour and a half and took participants through downtown Harrisburg and past the Fort Indiantown Gap Military Base.

“Last year was a stellar year – it blew everything we’ve ever done out of the water by thousands of dollars,” Jonathan said. “Everything stopped [in 2020] for COVID. Last year, people wanted to come out because they hadn’t seen anyone in a while. We had 50/50 raffles and charity baskets. It was just amazing.”

The PA Widows Sons presented the check for $14,000 to the Masonic Children’s Home in Elizabethtown in November 2021.

Each year, the Grand Master’s Charity Ride is held in the town where the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania resides. Last year, the ride was held in Philadelphia in deference to R.W. Past Grand Master Thomas Gamon IV.

Brother Mike Rosenberry is President of the PA Temple Guard Chapter (Harrisburg) of the Widows Sons, which sponsored the charity ride last year. A 33° Mason, Mike is a member of HarrisburgSnyder Lodge No. 629, which has about 50 members. He called the event “a huge success.”

“Our chapter members and state officers helped out a great deal with the event,” he said. “It was more money than we ever dreamed we’d be able to raise. So, the bar is set. I hope this year it will be even better.”

The Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association was established in the late 1990s. Today, there are chapters across the globe.

The PA Widows Sons was founded in 2001 in Philadelphia. Currently, there are 16 recognized chapters throughout the state. Each chapter holds a monthly meeting to conduct business and plan upcoming events. All Master Masons in good standing, under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, who are motorcycle riders, are welcome to petition a local chapter. For a chapter locator and more information on the Pennsylvania Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association, visit pawidowssons.org

The Making of a Master Builder

Attendees at the Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction’s (NMJ) Annual Session in Cleveland were impressed by a unique piece of artwork commissioned by the NMJ: a 3D Lego model of the iconic two-headed eagle, complete with sword, crown and banner.

But, the intersection of Legos and Freemasonry wasn’t something new for Brother Michael Everly, P.M., Saucon Lodge No. 469, Coopersburg.

His fascination with the 89-year-old plastic bricks started long before his Masonic Lego projects of today. Mike said he enjoyed building with Legos as a kid, but “like most teenage boys, [I] got out of it when I discovered girls and cars.”

In adulthood, a trip to Florida with his then-girlfriend (now wife and mother of their 2-year-old daughter, below) reignited his love of Lego. They were visiting his aunt and decided to stop at the Florida Legoland location, where Mike bought a Lego set to take home.

That was 10 years ago, and Mike is still building – attending Lego conventions and documenting his creations on Instagram at “@55bricks.”

“If I have a bad day at work, I go home and open a set,” he said. “It’s a great stress-reliever.”

At Philly Brick Fest 2021, he displayed his threefoot-long motorized minifigure factory – a project he started during the pandemic, which took him over a year to complete – and also won “Best Mollusk” for a snail he’d made.

Currently, he’s working on a gavel stand for the gavel he used when he was Worshipful Master in 2013. His dream project is to build a Lego city with his daughter when she’s older. Family is a big part of Mike’s Masonic life, as well. He became a Mason in 2006 with his brother, Brother Fred Everly, III, Saucon Lodge No. 469, Coopersburg. Their high school had a Masonic lodge across the street, and one of their favorite teachers, Brother Raymond

Rush, Phillipsburg Lodge No. 52, Grand Lodge of New Jersey, was a Mason. (As a Civil War reenactor, he wore the Square and Compasses on his pocket watch, which inspired conversations about the symbol.)

A documentary they watched as adults sparked their interest again, and reaching out to Raymond led them to join. The two brothers also brought their father, Brother Fred Everly, Jr., into the lodge and guided him during his three degrees.

With his lodge brother, R.W. Senior Grand Warden Robert D. Brink, preparing for his Grand Master’s term in a few years, it seems that more Masonic builds (like a Lego rendition of the traditional Grand Master’s portrait) are on the way for Mike. In addition to the projects he does on his own time, he also donates sets and creations to charity auctions and to the Shriners Children’s Hospitals.

“Just seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces when they see what you’ve built … it’s like, ‘It’s not just for me,’” he said.

Monthly guest speakers present free programs open to the public, but reservations are required: call 215-988-1917 or email templeevents@pagrandlodge.org. The programs are live-streamed as well; for more information, visit https://pamasonictemple.org/events/ If you have an idea for a speaker series program, contact Brother Mike Comfort at 215-988-1977.

A Revolutionary Fraternity: Freemasons and the Global Fights for Liberty in the 18th and 19th Centuries

May 21, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

While many are familiar with the role Freemasons played in the American Revolution, the Craft and its members were also essential to numerous struggles against tyranny that occurred across the globe in the 18th and 19th centuries. This presentation will examine the role of various notable Masonic revolutionaries in the Americas, Europe and the Caribbean as the world moved through the Age of Revolution.

Presenter: Brother Matthew J. McGovern is a Past Master of University Lodge No. 51, Philadelphia, and is an officer or active member in a number of other Masonic bodies in and around Philadelphia.

Masonic Library & Museum

SPEAKER SERIES

Professionally, Matthew is an educator and historian.

History of the Liberty Tree

June 18, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Although few today know the story of the Liberty Tree, in the years leading up to the American Revolution, local patriots in each of the 13 colonials, who called themselves the “Sons of Liberty,” identified a large tree to be used as a meeting place. Where there was no suitable tree, a large pole was erected and appropriately called a Liberty Pole. The first Liberty Tree was an elm in Colonial Boston. Realizing the tree’s importance and valuable political symbolism, British soldiers destroyed it in 1775.

Presenter: Brother Michael D. McKee, 33°, Jerusalem Lodge No. 506, Philadelphia, has overseen operations for

The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania as its Executive Director since 2019. Previously, he was the Director of Compliance and Risk Management for the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. He holds a bachelor of science in business administration from Peirce College and an Executive Master’s in business administration from Drexel University’s LeBow College of Business.

Raising the Nile: Ethnicity & Politics in the U.G.L.E. Masonic Lodges of British Egypt, 1860-1956

July 16, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

The history of Freemasonry in modern Egypt dates back to the Napoleonic Campaign in Egypt and Syria; however, Freemasonry did not take a firm hold until several decades later. Following the political reforms enacted by Egyptian Khedive Muhammad Ali, Europeans began to have a more prominent presence in Egypt, and by the 1880s, Egypt was under British control. The British, French, Italians and Greeks each established Masonic lodges throughout the country. This began a complicated history of the Craft in British Egypt. The lodge remained an influential cultural force in Egypt until after World War II, when, in 1964, Freemasonry was officially banned, ending the Craft’s turbulent history in the Land of the Pharaohs.

Presenter: Brother Michael J. Ernst is a Ph.D. student studying Islamic art history at Temple University. He holds a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in Middle East studies from the University of Pennsylvania. He is the Worshipful Master of University Lodge No. 51, Philadelphia.

A Charitable to Disposing of Your IRA

By Brother Alvin H. Blitz, Esq., Chief Development Officer for the Office of Mission Advancement and Development

I meet with brethren all over the country and on each of the Masonic Village campuses to discuss estate planning strategies.

Over the past several years, the rising stock market and number of individuals retiring with large retirement plans has contributed to a significant increase in the number of Traditional IRA owners with $500,000 or more in their accounts. In fact, the IRA is usually the largest asset in their estate. Unfortunately, a Traditional IRA is taxed as ordinary income to you AND to your heirs after they inherit it from you. The law requires that anyone receiving your IRA, other than your spouse, must receive all funds from the inherited IRA within 10 years of the death of the owner from whom they received it.

For large IRAs, that could be a significant tax hit, especially when such income is added on to the recipient’s other income. Additionally, if a family member is a spendthrift, he or she could take all the money out of the IRA at once to buy that new Tesla after paying all those taxes. Luckily, for the right person, there is a solution. Let me provide an example.

I was visiting with Brother Ron and his lovely wife, Kim, the other day at their home in Easton. Ron had retired 10 years ago from a large hospital and had rolled his retirement savings into an IRA. Over those 10 years, the IRA grew significantly, to the point that it was the bulk of his estate assets. He and Kim wanted to know what

Masonic Charities in their current wills. I suggested they consider an alternative to giving the IRA outright to the kids and/or charity. Instead, I suggested, you can distribute the IRA to an Income for Life Trust (formally known as a charitable remainder unitrust or CRUT) and pay the kids 5% or more of the value of the assets in the trust each year for both their lives or, in the alternative, a period of up to 20 years.

Once the trust ends, any remaining assets goes to charity. As an added bonus, I told Ron and Kim if Masonic Charities is a beneficiary of some of the remaining trust assets, then it would serve as trustee for no cost other than the investment fees. That way, they would be assured the fraternity took care of providing an income for their children during the term of the trust. Since the trust doesn’t take effect until the surviving spouse passes, they can always change their minds at any time during their lifetimes.

Ron responded, “I really like this trust concept, but can I include my two grandchildren in the trust?” I answered, “Sure. If you do a 20-

year trust, you can name anyone you want to receive part of the income distributions each year. You also save on PA Inheritance Taxes by using the trust.”

Ron then asked me to send him a presentation outlining how the trust would work for him and the family. After reviewing the materials and talking to their lawyer, Ron and Kim decided to do a 20-year Income for Life Trust for their children and grandchildren with the remaining assets at the end of the 20-year period being split between their Episcopal Church and Masonic Charities.

If you are interested in seeing how the Masonic Charities might be able to help you and your family with an Income for Life Trust for your IRA, email us at Giving@masonicvillages.org or call us at 1-800-599-6454 to get your own Income for Life Trust Illustration. We look forward to helping you realize your estate and charitable planning dreams.

2021 Masonic Charities Gratitude Report

“Your support provides comfort during unstable times, and gives us all hope for a brighter future.

As a reflection of the values of Pennsylvania Freemasonry, our Masonic Charities help improve the lives of others. With the challenges of a worldwide pandemic continuing to impact daily life for everyone, we’ve been able to count on our donors to keep others’ needs at the forefront. Your support provides comfort during unstable times and gives us all hope for a brighter future.

The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania continued preserving the architectural, ornamental and symbolic significance of the Masonic Temple, sharing Pennsylvania Freemasonry’s past, present and future with members and the public alike. Through this institution, the contributions of Pennsylvania Masons are showcased to the world so everyone may understand our shared obligation to “Do Good Unto All.”

The Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation enabled educational and social programs to continue for youth and adults despite challenges due to COVID-19. Youth groups led community service projects to help their neighbors in need. Deserving youth were able to accomplish dreams of a post-secondary education through the scholarship program.

The Masonic Children’s Home gave 40 youth the love and support they need to reach their full potential. On the outside, our cottages look like any other home, but on the inside, warmth, encouragement and respect abound, propelling youth to be their best and enjoy success in life.

The Masonic Villages focused on maintaining the highest quality services for close to 3,000 individuals, giving them peace of mind at all stages of life.

Care and attention went above and beyond to offer services like music therapy, caregiver support groups, spiritual care and volunteer opportunities for residents to make a difference in their community. The Masonic Outreach Program continued to be a lifeline for Pennsylvania Freemasons, their wives or widows facing hardships.

The good works of our Masonic Charities are only possible because of YOU. Thank you for supporting one or more of our charities in 2021 and spreading the light of Pennsylvania Freemasonry on those in need.

We are all connected through the broad reach of Freemasonry, and the Masonic Charities succeed because of YOUR support and belief in the fraternity’s mission.

A Note from R.W. Grand Master Jeffrey Wonderling:

LIBRARY & MUSEUM

• Garnered a 238% increase in views on Masonic Temple’s YouTube page

• Cataloged 4,500+ objects in the archive

• Added 61 new books

• Answered 340 research requests

• Cataloged 3,127 manuscripts

CHILDREN’S HOME

• Completed 1,482 hours of in-service staff training

• Cheered on 10 kids in sports

• Welcomed 8 NEW CHILDREN

• Supported 7 students in college

• Celebrated 1 high school graduate

MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

• Delivered 6,250 meals through the Food for Friends initiative for those in need

• Granted $23,500 to youth-led service projects throughout the Commonwealth

• Trained 1,978 individuals at virtual and in-person Educational Institute workshops

• AWARDED $193,850 in scholarship funds

• Empowered 1,500+ youth through leadership development programs

MASONIC VILLAGES

• Provided a home to 2,897 residents*

• Supported 2,286 staff

• Made $36.1 MILLION** in charitable care and services possible

• Earned 5-Star ratings for Overall Quality from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services for all health care centers

• Cared for 356 hospice patients and their families

• Provided $95,850 in Home Assistance through the Outreach Program

• Supported 13,000+ WIDOWS through the Masonic Widows’ Program

• Provided 6,800+ full doses of COVID-19 vaccines and boosters for residents and staff

• Funded $6.4 MILLION in COVID-19 response costs, including lost revenue and unplanned expenses (enhanced pay, supplies, screening, testing, etc.).

+ This includes residents of nursing, personal care and memory care areas; retirement living residences; the Bleiler Caring Cottage; and the Masonic Children’s Home.

**This amount consists of approximately $10.1 million (at cost) of free care and services and $26 million (at cost) for care and services above the amount reimbursed by Medicare, Medicaid and other third-party payers.

C all for Entries for the Grand Exhibition

An Open Art Competition: Embodying Masonic Values

Sponsored by The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania

Criteria

All artwork entries must display a visual interpretation of some aspect of Freemasonry in Pennsylvania, whether it be philosophical, historical, scientific, social, fraternal, charitable, architectural, etc. Selected artwork will be exhibited in the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia.

Jurors

Brother Travis Simpkins, Artist John McDaniel, Artist Elaine Erne, Artist/Teacher

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

exhibited. No work previously produced on a commission will be accepted. All submissions must be available for purchase.

Categories

Oil, Three-dimensional, Drawing and Print-making, Water-Based Medium, Digital Imagery

Awards

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

Auction

If the artists in the Grand Exhibition choose to participate, their entered works may be auctioned off at the Exhibition Gala, with 80% of the auction value going to them and 20% to The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania.

The artist may set a reserve price, as well as a direct purchase price, for the original work to be revealed AFTER the auction.

Calendar Entry Deadline: Thursday, Aug. 11, by midnight, E.D.T. Submissions must be made through CallForEntry.org

Jury selection announced: Friday, Aug. 26.

Opening Reception: The Grand Exhibition Gala will be held at the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia on Friday, Oct. 7, featuring a cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception, live music, announcement of winners and a silent auction of selected artwork.

Exhibition: The Grand Exhibition will be open to the public to view starting on Tuesday, Oct. 11, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., TuesdaysSaturdays, until Nov. 12.

Masonic Temple, One N. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19107-2598

For more information, visit PaGrandLodge.org.

Joseph S. Franco Named Chief Information Officer at Masonic Villages

As CIO, Joe coordinates, plans and operates the information technologies and computer programs of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and the Masonic Villages. His responsibilities include establishing policies and procedures for information processing matters, selecting and evaluating hardware and software used by the organization and supervising and providing training for information technology personnel. He provides overall strategic direction for the information technology department to ensure security of Masonic Villages’ centralized systems and information.

Joe brings 18 years of critical experience leading IT teams in the senior living industry. He previously worked as the Executive Director of Information Technology at Phoebe Ministries in Allentown, PA. He holds an associate degree in Computer Programming and Network Operations, a bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems Management and a master’s in Business Administration.

In 2020, Joe was named one of Lehigh Valley’s Forty Under 40. He resides in Blandon, PA.

Emilee Krasson Named Director of Sales and Marketing at Masonic Village at Dallas

Emilee is responsible for managing and implementing a comprehensive sales and marketing program to maintain maximum occupancy levels and optimal operating efficiency for retirement living accommodations.

Emilee earned a bachelor’s degree in health care management with a minor in marketing and a master’s degree in organizational management, both from Misericordia University.

Previously, Emilee was employed as a program specialist for C.A.R.E.S., an adult day program; as a healthrelated technology instructor at

West Side Career and Technology Center (WSCTC); and as a certified nursing assistant with Timber Ridge Health Care Center (now River View Nursing and Rehabilitation Center). She completed a marketing internship with Masonic Village at Dallas in 2018. She is a volunteer on the WSCTC occupational advisory committee.

Emilee resides in Tobyhanna, PA.

Joseph S. Franco has been named Chief Information Officer (CIO), effective Jan. 10, 2022.

Emilee Krasson has been named Director of Sales and Marketing at Masonic Village at Dallas.

Forging the Future: The Role of an Adult Volunteer

It is no secret the youth of the world will be future leaders for generations to come. To grow into those leaders, a path must be forged for them. Our youth will be responsible for making their own journey through life, but along the way, they need mentors, guides and motivation to reach success. This article is the first in a series focused on the role of adult volunteers for our Masonic youth organizations and their impact on the lives of our youth.

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF ADULT VOLUNTEERS?

They are men and women willing to give their time and talents to create a positive environment for Masonic youth. They provide support and guidance. They empower youth to make decisions and model how to learn from mistakes.

The best adult volunteers are those who truly believe in the young people they serve. It takes dedication to be an adult volunteer, but the reward of watching youth grow into responsible adults and capable leaders is worth the investment.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO SERVE?

Jeanine Larkin is a DeMolay advisor who serves as the Director of Health and Safety for Pennsylvania DeMolay. “Mom” Larkin, as she is recognized by the small army of DeMolay members and advisors, explained, “I became an adult volunteer to mentor, learn and give back. My son and husband were very involved in DeMolay when I became an advisor. I witnessed how the organization enriched their lives and wanted to share that experience with them. What I have found is a family of young men and adult advisors who have become lifelong friends.”

he was part of as a young man.

“I became an adult volunteer to give back to the group what was given to me so many years ago,” Jerry said.

“The group molded me as a youth into the man and Mason that I am today, for which I will forever be grateful. The men of this group sacrificed so much to give the youth a chance, so I felt as though it was only right that I exert the same energy.”

“The soundest investment we can make is an investment in the youth of our land, for they are the leaders of the future. From their ranks will come the statesmen, educators, politicians, ministers, scientists and future presidents of this great country, and Freemasonry must make quite sure that it provides a generous portion of that leadership.”

- R.W. Past Grand Master “Dad” Samuel C. Williamson

WHY SHOULD SOMEONE CONSIDER BEING AN ADULT VOLUNTEER FOR OUR YOUTH GROUPS?

“Having an opportunity to help youth in their upbringing is an amazing experience,” Jerry said. “To know that you play a major part in their development and maturity is a rewarding feeling all in itself. Positive male figures in the life of any youth can lead to positive and life-altering decisions. Motivation is a necessity.”

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCE AS AN ADULT VOLUNTEER?

Brother Jerry Bradford, Sons of Light Lodge No. 120, Philadelphia, is a dedicated advisor for Knights of Pythagoras, a youth organization

“My most meaningful experience has been having the honor of observing the metamorphosis of the inexperienced, shy member becoming the confident

and compassionate leader of his chapter, of his region and of the organization,” Jeanine said. “My son turned 21 [the age when you leave DeMolay] 14 years ago, but I continue to volunteer because of what I learn from the members and other advisors. From them, l learn how to be a better person, a better citizen and a better leader.”

Have you ever thought about being an adult volunteer for one of our Masonic youth organizations? Would you consider giving a little time to mentor some deserving young people? Our youth organizations need you. Our youth need you. They are worthy of having positive role models, patient mentors and understanding guides on this journey they are forging.

For complete information on becoming an adult volunteer with one – or more – of our youth organizations, please reach out to Brother Joseph Pullin at the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation at 717-367-1536, ext. 8, or japullin@pmyf.org.

Pictured right: Brother Jerry Bradford, an advisor for Knights of Pythagoras

Pictured below: Jeanine Larkin, a DeMolay advisor who serves as the Director of Health and Safety for Pennsylvania DeMolay.

Consider a Gift THAT PAYS YOU BACK

“I completed a charitable gift annuity to support the Masonic Charities. They are aware of the needs of people and help them. I love the overall view of helpfulness, because my husband and mother were the beneficiaries of the great care at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.”

- Maureen Cornell, widow of Brother Frederick Cornell, Acacia Lodge No. 355

For One Life

Age Rate

Two

70 4.7% 70 & 75 4.3% 75 5.4% 75 & 80 4.9% 77 5.8% 85 & 85 6.5% 81 6.7% 85 & 90 7.1% 85 7.6% 90 & 90 8.2% 90+ 8.6% 90 & 95 8.4%

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

A CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY OFFERS

YOU SEVERAL GREAT BENEFITS:

• Fixed payments for life at favorable rates

• An income tax deduction this year

• Capital gains benefits if you transfer stock

• Living every day knowing you will also join Masonic Charities in its mission

You can fund a gift annuity for yourself (must be at least 65 years of age) or for you and another person, such as your spouse.

We will give you an illustration showing the benefits of creating a charitable gift annuity (minimum of $5,000). We can tell you your payment rate, income tax deduction and possible capital gains benefits. If you like doing it yourself, visit our website at MasonicCharitiesLegacy.org, where we have a handy calculator for you to explore.

Visit us online, call us at 1-800-599-6454 or return the form – we are here to help!

COMPLETE AND MAIL TO: Office of Mission Advancement and Development, One Masonic Dr., Elizabethtown, PA 17022 • 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 about using my credit card to purchase my annuity. Phone ( )

MasonicCharitiesLegacy.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 1-888236-6167. 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.