Freemason - November 2018

THE PENNSYLVANIA

VOL. LXV, NO. 4

NOVEMBER 2018

Remembering

EDWARD H. FOWLER JR. R.W. GRAND MASTER 1992-1993

June 28, 1932 - Sept, 28, 2018

Masons in World War I

A special thank you to the brothers of Hyde Park Lodge No. 339, Scranton, for providing the concept for this issue.

The lodge honors Masonic veterans during its November meeting each year; last year, the highlighted topic was the 100th anniversary of World War I. Recognizing this Nov. 11 celebrates exactly a century since the Great War ended, this issue features articles on many of the same topics the lodge discussed, and more.

THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON® VOL. LXV, NOVEMBER 2018, NO. 4

©2018 The R.W. Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Pennsylvania EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman S. Eugene Herritt, R.W.G.M. Thomas Gamon, IV, R.W.D.G.M. Jeffrey M. Wonderling, R.W.S.G.W. Larry A, Derr, 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) November 2018 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) November 2018, 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: S. Eugene Herritt. 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.

3 Freemasonry Today

Grand Master’s Message • Meet Adam Heese, R.W. Grand Treasurer • December Quarterly Communication • Ritualistic Contest Winners • Lodge of Research • Art Contest Winners • Travel with the Grand Master • Masonic Charities Sporting Clays Winners

10 Membership

Where Are They Now? • Visiting Brethren in Aruba • ”It’s All About the Children” • Remembering Edward H. Fowler Jr., R.W.P.G.M.

14 Masonic Education

Masonic Heroes of World War I • World War I “Firsts” • The Masonic Connection to the American Legion • Pennsylvania Freemasonry During the Great War

22 Philanthropy

Help for Our Heroes • DeMolay Key Men Dish Up for Charity • Students Awarded Scholarships • Some “Enchanted” Evening • Autumn Day 2018 • A Dedication to Devoted Donors • A New Life Awaits You • The Townhomes at Sycamore Square & Sycamore Marketplace • Masonic Villages’ 2018 Wish List

S. Eugene Herritt, 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 Gift Planning at 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.

View the magazine online!

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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, Given its historical perspective, it is reasonable to believe that we can change the world through Freemasonry. To do that, we need to believe in certain human tenets. One of those is trust.

Trust is a key to all human advancement. Blind trust is not the wisest of choices, but tested and proven trust is a powerful tool.

Trust in our family members. Trust in our friends. Trust in our colleagues and the institutions we have established a relationship with during our lives.

What does that have to do with your Grand Lodge?

The trust that we build with our members and society is the social currency that grants us our moral license to operate. That trust must be established, not just with one another, but with leadership, as well.

Your current Grand Lodge Officers have worked diligently at establishing what we are referring to as a “culture of continuity,” beginning with a strategic planning session prior to our taking our current offices. We have had three such sessions since then as we evaluated past practices, discussed possible improvements to our policies and looked to future changes within the governance of the jurisdiction of Pennsylvania. That is a fiduciary responsibility which needs to be planned for and evaluated periodically to be effective.

There are certain unavoidable expenses necessary to maintain a presence within the jurisdiction and an ongoing prestige in other jurisdictions throughout North America and the world. It is our attempt, however, to do that as economically as possible while still offering worthwhile direction to individual lodges through their District Deputies and their Schools of Instruction.

While having certain expectations of what is important to encourage new members through personal mentoring and insisting on Masonic-oriented programs at local lodge meetings, there have been no expensive initiatives without “buy in” from all the Grand Lodge Officers. If everyone is not comfortable that they would continue a program, we are not going to waste Grand Lodge monies on something that does not have full support or has only a limited shelf life in the hearts and minds of individual members.

As Freemasons, we should be comfortable in trusting one another, and that is an expectation you should have of your Grand Lodge leadership, as well. It is with that governance philosophy we hope to demonstrate our commitment to enhancing our fraternity within Pennsylvania and maintaining the trust in leadership that is so important to the smooth operation of any organization, more importantly, one of our fraternal nature and historical background.

There has to be a business component to running any institution of the size and depth of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, but ultimately, we are bound by ideals that move us beyond our backgrounds, lift us above our interests and teach us what it means to be Freemasons.

Sincerely and Fraternally,

S. Eugene Herritt, R.W. Grand Master

FREEMASONRY TODAY

MEET

ADAM HEESE, R.W. GRAND TREASURER

Brother Adam C. Heese was appointed R.W Grand Treasurer on June 9, 2018. He is a Past Master and past Trustee of Melita Lodge No. 295, Philadelphia. He has served as a member of the Masonic Villages Board of Directors for the past six years and as chair of the Finance and Gift Planning Committee.

Brother Adam is also a member of The Masonic Library and Museum of PA’s Board of Directors, as well as the Grand Lodge Committee on Finance and Committee on Lodge Loans. He serves as a Trustee of Title to the Masonic Temple and other Real Estate of Grand Lodge, Trustee of the Consolidated Fund, Trustee of the Masonic Charities Fund and as an Administrator of the Pension Plan.

Brother Adam is employed as a Corporate Tax Manager at Kennametal in Latrobe, Pa. He has previously held positions as a Tax Manager at Deloitte & Touche and a Senior Tax Analyst at Air Products & Chemicals.

Brother Adam earned a bachelor of science degree in business administration from Drexel University and a master of science degree in taxation from American University.

Brother Adam and his lovely wife of 13 years, Kelly, reside in Latrobe with their four children. He enjoys spending his free time with his family. He strives to be involved in his children’s activities, including serving as Treasurer and Assistant Den Leader for his sons’ cub scout pack and volunteering with their wrestling club. He also enjoys gardening, fishing, hunting and traveling with his family.

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE GRAND LODGE: You are hereby requested to attend the December Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania to be held on Saturday, Dec. 8, at 10 a.m., at the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square located at 25 South Queen Street, Lancaster, PA 17603.

By Order of the R.W. Grand Master.

Mark A. Haines R.W. Grand Secretary 4

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Pennsylvania Freemason

RITUALISTIC CONTEST WINNERS Congratulations to the Winners of the Ritualistic Competition

1st Place: District 27

The finals of the Ritualistic Competition were held on Sept. 15, where each team had to exemplify the first, second and third degrees. As the winner, the District 27 degree team will attend the December Quarterly Communication. We thank all participating degree teams, including Districts 10, 24 and 29.

2nd Place: District 1

3rd Place: Districts B & C

LODGE OF RESEARCH The next meeting of the Lodge of Research will be held Saturday, Dec. 22, 2018, beginning at 10 a.m.

The location for the meeting is: Chambersburg Masonic Center 74 South Second Street, Chambersburg, PA 17201 The presenter for the day is to be announced.

November 2018

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FREEMASONRY TODAY

ART CONTEST WINNERS On Oct. 5, Grand Master S. Eugene Herritt welcomed brethren and guests to the Grand Exhibition Gala. This event was held at the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia to celebrate the opening of the juried art show sponsored by The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania. All artwork entered displayed a visual interpretation of Freemasonry in Pennsylvania.

Categories included: oil, three-dimensional, drawing and print-making, water-based medium and digital imagery. All artwork was reviewed by a jury of their peers composed of Brother Alvin Just, D.D.G.M.-41, Moe Brooker and William Scott Noel (pictured top left with the Grand Master). Painter Jeff Dion aided in selecting the jury and with exhibition and contest logistics.

Grand Master Herritt announced the winner in each category, the Grand Master’s Prize and Best in Show. Category winners, who received $200 each, were: Oil - Eric van der Vlugt for Sticks and Stones #7 (pictured on p. 7, top right) Three-dimensional - Allen Linder for Man following the Forms (pictured on p. 7, bottom right) Drawing and Print-making- Craig Fisher for Who’s Watching the Watchman?

Water-Based Medium - Brother Joseph Shawn Jr., Thomson Lodge No. 340, Paoli, for The Master and Digital Imagery and J. Matthew Seagrist for And There was Light The $1,000 Best in Show prize was awarded to Jennifer Hallgren for her oil titled, The Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul (pictured on p. 7, top left). The Grand Master was proud to announce that Brother Steve Lemak, P.M., New Temple Lodge, No. 720, Allentown, (pictured bottom left) was awarded the $500 Grand Master’s Prize for his artwork, Reflection (pictured on p. 7, bottom left).

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Pennsylvania Freemason

November 2018

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FREEMASONRY TODAY

Gene & Sally Herritt invite you to join them on the following excursion!

“CAPTIVATING RHINE” RIVER CRUISE August 3 - 14, 2019

Itinerary includes tours of Amsterdam, Netherlands; Cologne, Rudesheim, Mannheim, Strasbourg and Breisach, Germany; and Basel and Zurich, Switzerland

CRUISE INCLUDES: • • • • • • • • •

Spacious accommodations in riverview stateroom or suite Fine dining, including unlimited wine & beer Daily cocktail hour with complimentary beverages Cocktail reception and Captain’s Gala Dinner Complimentary WiFi access on board Guided tour excursions in every port Live entertainment, cooking demonstration and more Complimentary bicycles Services of a Professional Cruise Manager

LAND PROGRAM INCLUDES: • • • • • •

2 nights pre-cruise in Amsterdam 1 night post-cruise in Zurich Transfers between hotel & ship/ship & hotel Daily breakfast Guided city tour Portage service

Starting from $5,275 per person Category CB, French Balcony Rates include: cruise, land program, port charges and gratuities.

Airport transfers are additional; ask for details.

CALL TODAY! For additional information, contact:

Chris at Professional Travel at 215-355-4050 or Chris@BookAndGoNow.com 8

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Pennsylvania Freemason

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

MASONIC CHARITIES SPORTING CLAYS WINNERS

Seven Springs Sporting Lehigh Valley Sporting Clay Event Results Clay Event Results High Overall winner with a score of 97: Jeff Dunn High Overall female with a score of 89: Lisa Frederick Two Man Flush winners: Ken Brooks and Dr. Paul Means Winning team (pictured above, with R.W. Grand Master S. Eugene Herritt and R.W. Senior Grand Warden Jeffrey Wonderling) with a score of 350: Nate Lilley, Jeff Conko, Ken Brooks and Dr. Paul Means

High Overall winner with a score of 93: Stephen Uhl (Tiebreaker - Highest Run) and Thomas Tilley High Overall female with a score of 82: Jean Waliky Winning team (pictured above) with a score of 328: Karl Bednar, Seth Bednar, Jean Waliky and Andrew Smoker

Thanks to our generous sponsors, these events netted $16,154 for the Masonic Charities: Shoot Sponsor Mill Creek Capital Advisors Lunch Sponsor Saucon Lodge No. 469 Breakfast Sponsor Mitchell Lodge No. 296 Ammo Sponsors 40 th Masonic District Jerusalem Lodge No. 506 Catering by Design Konica Minolta USI Insurance Services National Investment Services Christenson Investment Partners

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Station Sponsors Quient Anderson, 52nd Masonic District Carman's Wholesale Tire King Solomon's Lodge No. 346 Police Rod & Gun Club David J. Galardini, RBC Wealth Management R&R Tree Service Josh Freeman, 30 th Masonic District Rego Enterprises Gunslingers Harry Rutter Zimmer Law Smith Elliot Kearns & Co. Charles A. Cagle, CPA Slatington Lodge No. 440

Masonic Charities

Save the dates for next year’s events:

Seven Springs August 4, 2019 Lehigh Valley August 18, 2019

www.masoniccharitiespa.org

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MEMBERSHIP

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W. Grand Master (2010-2011) About two years ago, R.W. Past Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon and his wife, Joan, exchanged their winter wardrobes for shorts, sold their home in Oakdale and moved to Florida, where they’d had a second home for about five years.

Brother Tom traded in his snow shovel for the chance to play golf four-to-five mornings a week with newfound friends at the country club two miles down the road from their home.

He hasn’t completely forgotten his northern roots, however; his bright yellow golf cart proudly displays his allegiance to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

“I have good health. I’ve been truly blessed,” Brother Tom says of his “truly simple” lifestyle. Joan spoils him with her cooking and is an avid reader. They occasionally go out with friends and attend church; otherwise, they’re content enjoying the best retirement has to offer: quality time together.

“I’m the luckiest guy in the world to have her,” he says about his wife. “A lot of people say it but don’t mean it, but I do.”

Brother Tom turned 75 on August 13, and a couple of weeks later, Joan hosted a birthday party with family and friends, including some Pennsylvania brethren and their ladies. Brother Tom’s son, Seth, came from Pittsburgh, and his daughter, Kimberly, from Nashville, Tenn., where she and her husband are ministers. Seth has three daughters, whom Brother Tom says “are a lot of fun.”

Brother Tom has served as Deputy for the Supreme Council of Pennsylvania Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction since 2015; his term will expire next year. He also serves as the Grand Secretary General and Grand Chancellor, a

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Grand Master

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role in which he is responsible for all communications with the international Supreme Councils comprising 80 countries. His commitments require him to travel quite a bit, mostly back to Pennsylvania, but more recently, to Canada.

Reflecting on his years as Grand Master, Brother Tom considers his opportunity to serve the largest jurisdiction in the world a “monumental reward for a kid who grew up on a dairy farm.” When the Sturgeon Health Care Center at the Masonic Village at Sewickley was named in his honor after being renovated during his term, Brother Tom was overwhelmed. “It brought me to my knees,” he said. “It was quite an honor that I never would have dreamed of or expected.

It’s now a first class, beautiful, magnificent place, and I’m so proud of it.”

It was during his inauguration that Brother Tom presented the Pennsylvania Franklin Medal to R.W. Past Grand Treasurer Jeffrey W. Coy, whose recent passing was extremely difficult for him. “We became such good friends over the course of that past 10 years,” Brother Tom said, that he even spoke at Brother Jeff’s funeral. “It shows the wonderful bonds the fraternity fosters that two people from different parts of the state who wouldn’t otherwise know each other could become so close.”

It’s the kind of relationship Brother Tom hopes all members aspire to share with their fellow brethren. “We all need to learn to treat each other with respect, love and care, just as our lessons teach,” he said.

Photos, left-right: Brother Tom and Joan on his 75th Birthday; with his children, Kimberly and Seth; and his Steelers golf cart.

Pennsylvania Freemason

VISITING BRETHREN IN ARUBA In August, a group of about 30 officers and members of the Valley of Harrisburg, A.A.S.R., and their ladies traveled to Aruba at their own expense to participate in an exchange of fellowship and degree work with their Aruban brothers. Led by Brother Robert Brightbill, P.M., Harrisburg Lodge No. 629, who has forged many close friendships in the Aruba Masonic family, the members attended a conferral of the 13 th and 14th degrees in English on two Aruban brothers, working under the Scottish Rite of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

On another evening, the Valley members presented the Civil War era drama, “The Last Full Measure,” in which Abraham Lincoln claims that he intended to become a Freemason at the end of his Presidency. This former Scottish Rite degree was opened to the public as an example of Scottish Rite Masonry’s teachings. The production included full costumes, make-up and both recorded and live music, all under the direction of Brother Thomas R. Labagh.

Brother Thomas W. Morgan presented the prologue. Brother Steven M. Pippin played Lincoln, Brother Jeffrey E. Piccola played the dying Confederate soldier and Brother William R. Swinehart, P.D.D.G.M., his young brother. Rounding out the cast were Brother Greg Pappas as Lincoln’s secretary, and two Union soldiers played by Brother Frank J. DeStefano and R.W. Grand Master S. Eugene Herritt. A choir consisting of Brothers Craig A. Kern, C. Mark Recard, Rev. Robert M. Bistline, Frank J. DeStefano and Jay W. Smith, R.W.P.G.M., presented five Civil War era songs, and included solos in three verses of “Just Before the Battle, Mother.”

Commander in Chief Phillip A. Rickert, D.D.G.M.-19, declared the Valley of Harrisburg open in Aruba for the purpose of receiving

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Grand Master Herritt and the Aruban Scottish Rite leaders.

Brother Rickert presented a Charter for the Aruba Scottish Rite Club of the Valley of Harrisburg to Illustrious Brother Johann Vrieswijk, Delegate of the Supreme Council of the Netherlands.

Two Aruban brothers are full members of the Valley of Harrisburg: Brothers Stanley Brown and Peter Auwerda, members of Lodge El Sol Naciente in Aruba, traveled to Harrisburg to receive their degrees, and they return once a year to renew old friendships and to see more degree work.

Immediately after being received in Masonic regalia and presenting his medallion to the lodge officers present, Grand Master Herritt retired from the lodge room to clothe himself as a Union soldier. He was the second to return to the lodge in a dramatic and confrontational entrance of the Confederate and the Union flags. By participating in this conferral, Grand Master Herritt showed us all how we, too, should serve our fraternity wherever needed; both willingly and with humility.

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MEMBERSHIP

“IT’S ALL ABOUT THE CHILDREN” Brothers from the 10 lodges in Masonic District 26 reached their goal of placing a mini sprint car in the Shriners Hospitals for Children in Erie. The children who visit or receive treatment at the hospital can now enjoy a respite or a break from the waiting room by pretending to drive a fast-paced race car.

It all began when Brother Ron Eperthener, Grove City Lodge No. 603, saw a similar car on display at Lernerville Speedway.

“I thought this would be a great service project for the lodge,” Brother Ron said. “I also knew that my home lodge could never afford to do this by itself.” He brought the idea to Brother Wayne Frankenstein, D.D.G.M.-26 at the time.

The project was discussed by all the Worshipful Masters in the district, who took it back to their lodges to vote on contributing the money. “Every lodge was on board,” Brother Wayne said.

The car, known as a Dream Racer, was initiated by the Jacob Lewis Memorial Foundation, whose goal is to place simulated sprint cars in children’s hospitals in memory of Jacob Lewis, Sharpsville, Pa., who died of cancer at age 6.

Young patients can receive transfusions or chemotherapy while letting their imaginations run wild, with the help of the car’s video game console.

Brethren and friends contributed to the design and construction. A Canadian company that builds professional race

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cars built the chassis, a local company created the body, and a brother from Grove City Lodge No. 603 created the graphics.

Several contributing businesses’ logos decorate the car.

“It is all about the children,” said Brother Chris McCools, who owns a graphics shop that does lettering on race cars.

Brother Chris’ family lost a child to cancer and knows the hardships families go through, as well as the dedication of children’s hospital staff. The hubcaps were designed in memory of Brother Chris’ nephew.

After it was completed, the car was displayed at several Masonic meetings and a few car shows. On April 13, Brother Alan Duncan, D.D.G.M.-26, accompanied district brothers to present the car to the Shriners Hospital for Children.

“This project shows how a few Masons can take the lead to inspire many Masons to come together to see a project to completion,” Brother Alan said. “It reminds us all what we should be doing as Masons to improve the lives of those in our community and those we care about.”

A few weeks after the car was installed, a local brother who visited the hospital learned from the staff that the car is doing exactly what it was meant to do: put smiles on the faces of children.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Remembering

EDWARD H. FOWLER JR. R.W. GRAND MASTER 1992-1993

June 28, 1932 - Sept, 28, 2018

Brother Edward H. Fowler, Jr., 86, of Belle Vernon, was called to the Great Architect of the Universe on Sept. 28.

Born in Venice, Calif, he and his wife, Lois, who predeceased him in 2014, had resided in Belle Vernon for four decades.

For the past year, Brother Ed was a resident of the Masonic Village at Sewickley.

Brother Ed graduated from West View High School and the Robert Morris Business School in Pittsburgh. He served in the U.S. Navy, having served two years on board the USS Dennis J Buckley DDR 808. He retired in 1991 from Alcoa as the Manager of Property, Sales and Excise Tax division. He was a founding member and Past President of the Institute of Professionals and Taxation and an associate member of the Tax Executives Institute.

Brother Ed was raised in Avalon Lodge No. 657, Bellevue, in 1953 and served as Worshipful Master in 1964 and as a Trustee, 1965-1971. From 1971-1981, he served as District Deputy Grand Master-32 in the North Hills area.

As Grand Master, Brother Ed embarked on a pioneering project to offer leadership development skills to members of the fraternity throughout the Commonwealth. Additionally, he was the past presiding national officer of the Convent General, Knights of the York Cross of Honour, the Grand Council of Allied Masonic Degrees of the United States of America, the Grand Council of Knight Masons of America, the Governor General of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America and the Provincial Grand Master of the Royal Order of Scotland for the United States of America from 1997-2014. One of his highest Masonic honors and privileges was to be the personal guest of HRH, Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent, Grand Master of

November 2018

the United Grand Lodge of England at the 275th Anniversary of organized Freemasonry and the only American to speak at the event. He was an honorary member of the Grand Lodges of Alaska, Greece, Hawaii, Nevada and Portugal.

For his Masonic service, Brother Ed received numerous awards including the Bronze Medallion from the Chapel of Four Chaplains in Valley Forge, Pa., and an honorary membership to the Acacia fraternity.

At the national level, Brother Ed received the Knight Grand Cross, or its equivalent, in almost every Masonic organization of which he was a member and was instrumental in introducing several Orders into the United States through his leadership and influence. He was awarded the 33° in the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, the Legion of Honor from the Order of DeMolay and the Grand Cross of Colors from the International Order of Rainbow for Girls. Brother Ed was a member and past presiding officer of Bellevue Royal Arch Chapter, Roland C. Fisher Mark Lodge, Allegheny Council, Allegheny Commandery, Valley of Pittsburgh, A.A.S.R., Keystone Priory KYCH, United States Premier Conclave Knights of the Red Cross of Constantine, Gateway to the West Council, Golden Triangle York Rite College, Transfiguration Tabernacle, HRAKTP, Pennsylvania College SRICF, Royal Order of Jesters Court No. 2, The August Order of Light, Susquehanna Court Masonic Order of Athelstan and the Mayflower Conclave Order of Pilgrim Preceptors. Additionally, he was a member of Syria Shrine, Bryn Athyn Quarry Assemblage, Saint George Prefectory #1 CBCS and Hermetic Order of Spiritual Knights, among many other Masonic affiliations.

After retirement, Brother Ed continued traveling the world for his many Masonic endeavors and to enjoy sightseeing, photography and fine dining in more than 40 countries. He was a retired member of the Charleroi Rotary Club, a member of the Sheriff’s Reserve for Allegheny County and the Philadelphia Priory Sovereign Military Order of the Temple, and was a Freeman of the City of London.

If friends wish, tax deductible memorial contributions may be made to the Edward H. and Lois H. Fowler Charitable Trust, c/o Matthew Dupee, Esquire, P.O. Box 1266, Aiken, SC 29802.

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MASONIC EDUCATION

MASONIC HEROES OF WORLD WAR I November 2018 marks the end of the 100th anniversary of World War I. Out of the 4,734,991 Americans who served in World War I, 11,323 were Pennsylvania Masons.

Of the 116,516 Americans who died in the war, 268 were Pennsylvania Masons. (The Battle of Argonne Forest, considered the deadliest battle in U.S. history, was responsible for over 26,000 deaths.)

Did you know that the last surviving American World War I veteran was a Mason? Brother Frank Woodruff Buckles was born in Missouri on Feb. 1, 1901. In the summer of 1917, Brother Buckles tried enlisting in the Marines and the Navy, but was turned down due to only being 16. Finally, he enlisted in the Army on Aug. 14, 1917. During World War I, Brother Buckles worked as an ambulance driver and escorted German prisoners-of-war back to their home country. He also served in World War II and spent 3½ years in Japanese prison camps. When Brother Buckles returned home, he moved to West Virginia with his wife and bought a farm, driving his tractor until he was 106. He passed away Feb. 27, 2011, at age 110 and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

Another more well-known World War I hero is Brother John J. “Black Jack” Pershing, Lincoln Lodge No. 19, Nebraska. Born Sept. 13, 1860, in Missouri, Brother Pershing’s nickname dually came from his service with the 10 th Calvary, an all African-American regiment in the Spanish-American War, and his no-nonsense demeanor.

During World War I, he served as Commander in Chief of the American Expeditionary Force, where he revitalized the U.S. military, growing from 130,000 enlisted men to over two million. In October 1918, Brother Pershing led his army in the Meuse-Argonne offensive, which led to the war’s end that November. For this and other accomplishments, Pershing received the Army of Occupation of Germany medal and became the only soldier in U.S. Army history to wear a medal displaying his own likeness. In 1919, Congress promoted him to General of the Armies of the United States; the only other person to receive this honor was Brother and President George Washington, Fredricksburg Lodge and Alexandria-Washington Lodge, Virginia. From 1921-1924,

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Brother Pershing served as the U.S. Army Chief of Staff.

In his personal life, Brother Pershing was active in many of Freemasonry’s appendant bodies, including the York and Scottish Rites and Shriners. Brother Pershing died July 15, 1948, and – like Brother Buckles – is buried in Arlington National Cemetery. General John J. Pershing Lodge No. 307, Maastricht, Netherlands, is named in his honor.

Brother Harry S. Truman, Belton Lodge No. 450, Belton, Missouri, made Brother Pershing an honorary member of the Grand Lodge of Missouri in the early 1940s. A Captain, Brother Truman served as an artillery commander in France for his National Guard unit. He served as Senator and Vice President, becoming our 33rd President on April 12, 1945, after the untimely death of his Masonic brother, Franklin Delano Roosevelt. He made some of the most crucial decisions in history, including ordering the atomic bombs dropped on Japan to bring an end to World War II. For the second time in the 169-year history of the United States, a Past Grand Master of Masons (1940) was elevated to the office of President (the first was Andrew Jackson, who had served as the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Tennessee 1822-1823). In 1911, Brother Truman organized Grandview Lodge No. 618 and served as its first Worshipful Master. He was coroneted a 33° by the Supreme Council, A.A.S.R., Southern Jurisdiction, in 1945.

One of the world’s most famous race car drivers, Brother Eddie Rickenbacker Kilwinning Lodge No. 297, Detroit, Michigan, became America’s most successful and decorated combat pilot with 26 aerial victories during the war. The Medal of Honor recipient later became the longtime President of Eastern Air Lines until his retirement in 1963.

Colonel Brother John Thomas Axton served as the Army’s first Chief of Chaplains. He officiated at the interment of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery in 1921.

Sources: Biography.com, usaww1.com, thetimes-tribune.com, nationalsojourners.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Pershing. pdf, freemasonsfordummies.blogspot.com, arlingtoncemetery. net, frankbuckles.org, memory.loc.gov

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Left - right: Brothers Frank Woodruff Buckles, John J. “Blackjack” Pershing, Eddy Rickenbacker and Col. John Thomas Axton November 2018 of Congress Online Edition www.pagrandlodge.org/magazine 15 Photos courtesy of Library

MASONIC EDUCATION

WORLD WAR I “FIRSTS”

When the Unites States entered into World War I (WWI) on April 6, 1917, with its allies, Britain, France and Russia, Congress passed the Selective Service Act, reinstating the draft for the first time since the Civil War. Brother George Washington originated the draft during the Revolutionary War, stating, “When the country is in peril, it is incumbent upon all citizens to come to the defense of the country …”

It’s said that necessity is the mother of invention. The trench warfare and unprecedented combat both at sea and in the air during WWI required some new tactical weapons to attack the enemy and defend against it. They included:

1. Poison gases

Chemical weapons were considered uncivilized and banned several years prior to the war, but that didn’t stop either side from utilizing them to gain advantage. Their effectiveness depended on the type of gas, the delivery method and the weather conditions. Chemical warfare led to about a million deaths, which would have been much higher without the development of more efficient gas masks. Regardless, the threat of such a horrific death was a psychological weapon in and of itself. Unlike other lethal inhalants, the mustard gas Germans developed in 1916 was engineered to penetrate the skin, even through conventional clothing. Victims suffered severe chemical burns; high exposures were often lethal.

2. Tanks

Rugged trench warfare on the Western Front inspired France and Great Britain to create the first tanks in 1916, adapting the Caterpillar tractor used in the agricultural industry. Brother John “Black Jack” Pershing helped establish the U.S. Army’s Tank Corps by July 1918, garnering almost 30,000 members by the war’s end. The United States’ first and only tank school was Camp Colt in Gettysburg, Pa.

3. Machine Guns The first automatic portable machine gun was invented in 1884 by American-born inventor Hiram Maxim and was used in the Somme offensive. The British and Germans made the guns lighter during WWI, thereby easier to hold while firing.

By 1917, machine guns consumed 90 percent of the Germans’ small arms ammunition. The machine guns of this period could fire between 500-600 shots a minute.

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4. Grenades Handheld explosives were nothing new during the war.

However, in 1915, the Germans created the first massmanufactured hand grenade, nicknamed “the potato masher.”

It had a stick, making it easy to hurl out of a trench. The British responded with their own version, the Mills bomb, which resembled a pineapple in design, was primed by pulling a pin and could be thrown about 30 yards.

5. Flamethrowers The “flammenwerfer” was developed by German Richard Fiedler and first used against the French and British in 1915.

To the enemy, they resembled powerful hoses spraying fire, which was effective in causing terror and panic and exploiting enemy lines. While portable and useful when employed at a short-range, British and French soldiers learned to concentrate their fire where flamethrowers were sited to eliminate the threat.

6. Airplanes and Airships Recently invented “aeroplanes” were used for reconnaissance during the war, and both sides quickly developed mono and biplane fighters that could hold heavy bombs and machine guns while maintaining a level of maneuverability.

Airships, or blimps, could fly farther and higher than airplanes of the day, beyond the range of enemy artillery. They could also carry more cargo and could keep silent watch for submarine activity.

7. Submarines and Depth Charges Outfitted with wireless transmitters, periscopes and internal combustion engines, submarines, or U-boats, were vital to both sides during the war. The Imperial German Navy’s large U-19 series with twin torpedoes handicapped Britain’s shipping industry and almost led to starvation, until the first workable depth charge, or underwater bomb, was developed

by Herbert Taylor at the Royal Navy’s torpedo school. By the war’s end, 16,451 depth charges had been fired, sinking 38 U-boats and helping destroy 141 more.

Sources: graphics.wsj.com/100-legacies-from-world-war-1, online.norwich.edu, telegraph.co.uk/history/world-war-on, independent.ie/life/world-war-1/a-history-of-world-war-onein-10-deadly-weapons-30249206.html, brittanica.com

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Photos courtesy of Library of Congress November 2018

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MASONIC EDUCATION

THE MASONIC CONNECTION TO THE AMERICAN LEGION The American Legion, which “was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans’ organization devoted to mutual helpfulness,” celebrates its 100 th anniversary in November 2019. While many have been involved in its good works over the last century of operation, none of it would be possible without Brother David J. Davis, Peter Williamson Lodge No. 323, Scranton.

Born in Knightsville, Indiana, Brother Davis moved to Scranton after graduating from the University of Michigan to work with his uncle, D.M. Davis, at his law practice. In 1894, he enlisted in the National Guard’s Company “F,” 13 th Regiment Infantry and fought in the Spanish-American War. World War I was a difficult time for soldiers, but it came with great personal successes for Brother Davis.

When sent to France as part of the 28 th Division – which included Scranton’s 109th Infantry – he was promoted to the rank of Colonel and went from being the Adjutant General of the 28 th Division to its Chief of Staff. He was also awarded the Purple Heart and served under Brother John J. “Black Jack” Pershing, Lincoln Lodge No. 19, Nebraska.

His rise caught the attention of Lt. Col. Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., son of Brother and President Teddy Roosevelt, Matinecock Lodge No. 806, Oyster Bay, NY. A conversation between the two led to the founding of the Legion. Inspired by the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization for Union veterans of the Civil War, Roosevelt wanted to create something similar for World War I vets, and enlisted Brother Davis to help. From March 15-17, 1919, Col. Roosevelt, Brother Davis and 19 other officers gathered together to formulate the organization’s constitution and decide on its name. Their final choice, approved May 8-10, 1919, in St. Louis at the second caucus, is the one it still uses today: The American Legion.

When Brother Davis returned to Scranton, he founded Victory Post, was a member of Koch-Conley Post 121 and elected Pennsylvania Commander of the Legion in 1920.

In 1922, he was elected the 13 th Lieutenant Governor

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of Pennsylvania, 1923-1927, under Governor Gifford Pinchot. He also served as the Adjutant General of the PA National Guard and participated in opening Indiantown Gap Military Reservation, now known as a National Guard Transportation site. Brother Davis was part of the local St. David’s Society, an organization to preserve Welsh culture, and an elder at the Washburn Street Presbyterian Church.

He died Nov. 19, 1942, at his home in Scranton.

Brother Davis and the rest of the Legion’s original founders have passed on, but their organization has flourished, leaving a legacy far beyond their original expectations. Originally founded by veterans seeking to preserve camaraderie fostered in service, to obtain medical care and compensation for disabled veterans and to combat postwar radicalism during the Red Scare of 1919, it immediately became the largest veterans’ organization in U.S. history. The American Legion has over two million members with over 13,000 posts. No longer limited to the United States, where it’s considered “one of the most influential nonprofit groups,” the Legion has posts in France, Mexico and the Philippines, as well.

Qualifications for membership are honorable discharge, regardless of whether veterans served in a theater of combat. The American Legion is known for supporting community service, advocacy, patriotism, disaster relief, Legion baseball and educational scholarships.

Sources: https://www.thetimes-tribune.com/news/ local-history-scranton-man-helped-found-americanlegion-1.2269724, www.legion.org Top left: Teddy Roosevelt, Jr. Top right: General John J. “Black Jack” Pershing. Bottom: First State Convention of American Legion Oct. 16-18, 1919, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Source: Library of Congress

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MASONIC EDUCATION

PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASONRY DURING THE GREAT WAR imposing “a voluntary contribution of not less than $2 per capita” on each member to establish the War Relief Fund, seeking to raise $250,000. The fund would be used to provide food, clothing, money, medical care, burial costs and educational expenses for Pennsylvania Masonic veterans, wherever they lived. The fund peaked at $161,000 in November 1919.

If the flashing sabre and thunder of cannon that began on July 28, 1914, in Europe was of any concern to the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, evidence cannot be found in the 1914, 1915 or 1916 Proceedings (annual reports).

The War Relief Fund However, after Congress declared war on April 6, 1917, and General Brother John J. “Black Jack” Pershing led two million American soldiers into war-torn Europe, Grand Master Louis A. Watres set the stage for Grand Lodge action. Keeping in mind the people suffering and starving among the 20 nations at war, he strongly discouraged lodges from spending funds on banquets, entertainment and cigars; rather, he encouraged them to give to charity.

Later that year, the Grand Lodge adopted a resolution

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Masonic Custom The Grand Lodge had maintained a strict position of neutrality in political matters, but fully supported the American intervention into World War I. The Grand Lodge enacted a loyalty oath and urged the German-speaking lodges to use English in their meetings. This was very conciliatory in comparison to neighboring New Jersey, which had abolished the use of the German language in the work of their lodges. Grand Master Watres wrote, “The ‘Ahiman Rezon,’ as well as the charter rights of our German lodges, permit the use of the German language in ritualistic work, and they cannot, therefore, be deprived of that right …”

The Grand Lodge encouraged lodges to display the national flags of Great Britain and France, along with the American flag, in the lodge rooms. The Grand Master refused to warrant military lodges, hearkening back to 1862 when it refused to warrant them for Union soldiers, and noting that no military lodges had been permitted since Feb. 6, 1832. The Grand Lodge reminded Pennsylvania Masons that they did not recognize any Masonic lodges not chartered by the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland or Ireland or Grand Lodges that did not have that direct lineage. It discouraged Pennsylvania soldiers from joining lodges in France, because they would not be accepted as Masons in Pennsylvania lodges.

Dr. Wayne Huss, in “The Master Builders, Vol. II,” published in 1988 by the Grand Lodge, wrote that the Grand Masters in office during World War I condemned “the moral depravity and the unspeakable horrors practiced by the Huns,”

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November 2018

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MASONIC EDUCATION

proclaimed America’s and the fraternity’s dedication to human liberty and equality, reinforced Freemasonry’s role in relieving distress and in healing the nation’s wounds and endorsed America’s new role as a world power.”

The issue of accepting petitions from those with physical disabilities had come up after every war or conflict, and following major industrial accidents. In 1919, the rigid belief that the 1803 Committee on Landmarks report could never be changed perpetuated the physical disqualifications until a more enlightened vision prevailed in 1982.

When the United States entered the war in 1917, the Grand Lodge encouraged its subordinate lodges to support the Red Cross and to subscribe to Liberty Bonds. It requested permission from the U.S. Surgeon General to send representatives to military hospitals abroad, but the request was turned down because all voluntary aid for officers and men was to be extended through the Red Cross.

In September 1918, it was estimated that 8 percent of the membership had been called into service, totaling 11,321 Pennsylvania Masons.

The Masonic Service Association In June 1919, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania joined with other Grand Lodges in the United States to create the Masonic Service Association as a national unified effort for charity and good. The first annual meeting of the Masonic Service Association was held on the first anniversary of the end of “The Great War,” Armistice Day, Nov. 11, 1919. The nation was divided into service zones, and R.W. Past Grand Master Louis A. Watres was placed in charge of the North Atlantic zone.

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Memorials In May 1919, the Grand Lodge held a special reception at the Masonic Temple for the 2,200 veterans of the 28 th Division, Masons, nonMasons and spouses inclusive, at the end of their Philadelphia Victory Parade. The War Relief Fund was used to provide Masons railroad fares to get home from Camp Dix, emergency telegraph charges, clothing, food and cash for returning soldiers. The Dix Acacia Club was established with a grant of $3,000 to promote social interaction among Masons. Visitation to the sick and wounded Masons in the base hospital and the convalescent center began with a fervor.

On Armistice Day 1927, the Grand Lodge dedicated an imposing granite and bronze monument to the memory of the Pennsylvania Masons who died in World War I. It was funded with $20,000 from the Grand Lodge and is still located near the Blair County Memorial, the Parthenon-like, open-air lodge situated on the eastern part of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. It sits amidst a grove of oak trees contributed by the members of Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, Harrisburg, one for each of the 268 Pennsylvania Masons who perished in service during the war. An eternal flame was added to that Memorial in 2014.

The Membership Membership was greatly affected by the war. Initiations were relatively stable from 1914-1918, ranging between 7,139 and 8,505 in that five-year period, but they exploded over the next five years, ranging from 8,887 to 19,380. At the end of 1919, there were 136,693 members on the rolls. By the end of 1923, that number had grown to just under 200,000 Pennsylvania Freemasons.

In his address at the closing of the Annual Grand Communication, Dec. 27, 1918, R.W. Grand Master James B. Krause said, “With the close of the war shall come opportunity for even greater fulfillment of Masonic obligation … in the hour of demobilization and rehabilitation, Masonry must again measure up to its noblest traditions, and go hand in hand, and in loving kindness do the great uplift work which lies before the Masons of America.”

History buffs can find a treasure trove of artifacts and books on World War I at the Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania, housed within the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia, including those displayed with this article.

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HELP FOR OUR HEROES

Showering Military Moms-to-be

On Aug. 18, Help for Our Heroes celebrated another military baby shower honoring 41 moms-to-be at the 171st Air Refueling Wing on the Air Force Base in Allegheny County, near the Pittsburgh National Airport. Brother William D. Johnson, D.D.G.M.-37, represented the Grand Lodge for the event, which was covered by local television.

of Philadelphia. Their automobile needed repairs to safely handle the weekend trips to Philadelphia to be with their newborn. Brother Darrin Catts, D.D.G.M.-42, was notified, and he acquired the assistance of Brother Craig Resh, owner of Al’s Auto Parts and Repair in York, who made the necessary repairs and donated his shop’s labor time and stock parts.

Help for Our Heroes was able to provide toward the couple’s home rental situation due to the cost associated with traveling.

Dedicated Lodge Donations

Heartfelt Help

Since the inception of the then-called Change for the Troops in 2008, the officers and members of Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, Harrisburg, have collected donations for the cause at each stated meeting, as well as at each annual banquet. Attendance at the lodge’s annual banquets has run between 235 and 365, and collections to the now-named Help for Our Heroes have run between $354.47 and $835. To date, the lodge has donated $11,692.45 to the program, over half of which was donated during its annual banquet celebrations.

Spc. Coty Gladfelter and his wife, Lisa, had a baby who unfortunately needs a heart operation. They live in the York area, and their baby is being cared for at Children’s Hospital

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Please, keep those donations coming in support of our troops!

Help For Our Heroes

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PHIL ANTHROPY

DeMOLAY KEY MEN DISH UP CHARITY One of the important tenets of the Order of DeMolay is community service. The 78 young men who attended the Pennsylvania DeMolay Key Man Conference from Aug. 5-11, rolled up their sleeves, slipped on poly food service gloves and assembled 10,000 tomato basil pasta meals that were donated to the Food Pantry at the First Church of God in Elizabethtown.

This community service project was sponsored by the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation in association with The Outreach Program, a non-profit corporation that provides safe water, food, medical care and education to children and families in need, both in the United States and around the globe.

The Key Man Conference is a DeMolay leadership training week, held at the Masonic Conference Center-Patton Campus

in Elizabethtown, that has been preparing DeMolay leaders since 1986. Participating in the 2018 conference were DeMolays from Pennsylvania, Georgia, Maryland, New Jersey, Texas, Wisconsin, Virginia and the Canadian Province of Ontario.

In recent years, the conference has been known as Key Man University because its structure mirrors colleges with educational departments, majors and minor courses of study.

Two weeks earlier, the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation’s LifeSkills Conference participants prepared 10,000 macaroni and cheese meals that were donated to the Community Cupboard in Elizabethtown. Both youth and adult were enthusiastic about these meaningful service programs.

STUDENTS AWARDED SCHOLARSHIPS

Brother Kenneth D. Long, P.M., Seneca Lodge 805, is the proud grandfather of Madison, who received a $3,000 Grand Master’s Scholarship to study nursing at IUP, and Dylan Walker, who received a $3,000 A. Ralph Taylor Memorial Scholarship to study landscape contracting at PSU. The PMYF scholarships were presented by Brother Cody J. Spangler, D.D.G.M.-27.

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Over $166,000 in scholarships were presented this year in 61 one-time or recurring awards (conditional upon maintaining a 3.0 GPA) by the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation through its Educational Endowment Fund. In 2019, an estimated 55-60 students will be selected to receive awards ranging from $1,000 to $3,000, some of which will be multi-year awards. The annual program runs through March 15, 2019, which is the final submission date for applications.

The 2019 Masonic Scholarship Resource Guide provides information on 66 scholarships, grants and loan opportunities for Masons, their siblings, children and grandchildren; members of the Masonic-related youth groups; Acacia fraternity members; and residents or graduates of the Masonic Children’s Home of Pennsylvania. The Masonic Scholarship Resource Guide for the 2019 program and the 2019 PMYF Scholarship application are now available at http://www.pmyf.org.

Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation www.pmyf.com

Pennsylvania Freemason

SOME “ENCHANTED EVENING” For the female residents of the personal care and nursing areas at the Masonic Village at Sewickley, the Enchanted Evening – “an elegant evening of entertainment and fine dining” – is a highlight of the year. Although it’s a “real team effort” to pull off, the idea came out of a breakfast conversation between two Masonic Village at Sewickley residents: Brother Tracy Miller, P.M., Myrtle Lodge No. 316, Franklin, and Brother David P. Rihl, P.M., Doric Lodge No. 630, Sewickley. When Brother Tracy reminisced about the ladies’ night banquet his home lodge put on for the local Masonic widows and brothers’ wives, it got them both asking, “What can we do for widows at Masonic Village at Sewickley?”

“It’s one of the tenets of Freemasonry to take care of widows and orphans. It’s important to show them that they are still part of our Masonic family,” Brother Tracy said.

Although Brother David passed away, his impact is still felt through the Enchanted Evening. Since he and Brother Tracy first brainstormed the idea, the Enchanted Evening has become a campus-wide undertaking. Masonic Village at Sewickley held its 11th Enchanted Evening on Feb. 28, with 129 attendees. Over 1,000 ladies in total have attended since the event’s inception.

The women dress to impress, choosing from over 300 garments and pieces of costume jewelry donated by local Eastern Star chapters, staff and retirement living residents.

“The ladies are very proud of the way they look and feel.

One said to me, ‘I never thought I would feel this good about myself,’” Brother Tracy said.

Members of the local Rainbow Girls assemblies, DeMolay chapters and Widows’ Sons – Brothers of the Trowel chapter,

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Meadville – act as escorts for the evening. They invite the District Deputy Grand Masters from Western PA and, since 2008, have had every Grand Master as the featured speaker.

“It takes them (the ladies) back to the days when they went out with their husbands or to their proms. I’m very proud to be part of this,” Brother Tracy said.

Along with the Enchanted Evening, Brother Tracy organizes several off-campus events for Masonic widows, including a “Ladies’ Day Out” luncheon every year. When new widows move in or current residents become widowed, he stops by and introduces himself.

“He really is our go-to concierge for all things Masonic widows here at Masonic Village at Sewickley,” Heather Mason, Director of Gift Planning – West Region, said.

Brother Tracy and his wife, Sandy, moved to Masonic Village at Sewickley 12 years ago to, as Brother Tracy says to tour groups he leads during open house events, “wear out, not rust out” – meaning, they arrived at a relatively young age so they can enjoy the many campus offerings. They have done just that: volunteering in the Sturgeon Health Care Center, working out at the Barley Wellness Center and participating in events, to name a few. Brother Tracy keeps up with his Masonic commitments; he is a member of the William Slater II Master Masons Club on campus, is the Lodge Instructor of Doric Lodge No. 630 and is involved in the Pittsburgh Scottish Rite and Syria Shrine.

“You establish friendships really quickly here, and the staff can’t seem to do enough for you, which makes life enjoyable.

It’s a nice place to live,” he said.

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Autumn Day

A fun-filled day of fraternal fellowship

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PHIL ANTHROPY

Approximately 6,500 visitors enjoyed the beautiful Elizabethtown campus and spent quality time with members, friends and residents on Sept. 22.

Festivities included musical entertainment, traditional Autumn Day fare, Zembo Shrine clowns, farm market stands, sales of crafts and hand-carved items made by residents and Masonic organization booths. Masonic Children’s Home residents and Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation youth groups offered activities for kids. The Masonic Blood Club hosted a blood drive with the Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank. In the Masonic Health Care Center, residents enjoyed food, music and games.

Florida Masonic Reunions WILL NOT Be Held In 2019.

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Masonic Villages

We are making plans to host the events in 2020.

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A DEDICATION TO DEVOTED DONORS

A DEDICATION TO DEVOTED DONORS Drawn in by the beautiful campus with its first-class services, amenities and activities, progressive care and Masonic legacy, Fredrick and Ann Ettline moved to Masonic Village at Elizabethtown 20 years ago. According to Fredrick’s son, Fred Ettline Jr., they participated in the groundbreaking of the then- “new” cottages and were among the first residents to live on Franklin Drive. That was their home for 13 years – the place they returned to after busy days taking advantage of all Masonic Village offers its residents, especially day trips to local attractions and fine dining in campus restaurants.

“After most dinners, they enjoyed driving the beautiful grounds, visiting the cows and spotting an occasional deer in the orchard,” Fred Jr. said.

The Ettlines also actively participated in many resident groups and clubs.

“Dad sang in the men’s chorus for several years, and I think Ann took as much joy in that as did Dad. Ann was chair of the library committee and loved every minute of it. She was especially social and enjoyed making friends in the community,” Fred Jr. said.

However, their time and friendship weren’t all they gave.

During their tenure as residents, the Ettlines frequently made generous financial contributions to Masonic Villages, supporting the organization’s mission and vision with their donations. The legacy these actions left behind can still be seen today. For example, since “church at Sell Chapel was a Sunday ritual,” Fred and Ann proposed the columbarium (an area where cremated remains are interred), located in the Sell Chapel courtyard, and donated the funds necessary to make it happen. Their remains

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are interred there at the foot of the cross.

“It helped them feel like they were making a difference in the lives of those who live there now, as well as in the lives of future generations,” Fred Jr. said, of why they chose to give.

The Masonic legacy also factored into their decision to donate.

In 1944, Fred Sr. was entered, passed and raised in Churchland Lodge No. 276, Portsmouth, VA. He had moved to Virginia to help with the war effort; when he returned to his hometown, York, Pa., he joined York Lodge No. 266.

“He was proud to be a member and share the bonds of brotherhood. He really appreciated what the Masons stand for and especially the charitable nature of their work. He and Ann took great pride in the good work that the Masons do,” Fred Jr. said.

To honor them, Masonic Village at Elizabethtown decided to dedicate the Masonic Health Care Center library in their name. A plaque was placed at the site, and Fred Jr., his wife, Renee, and their two daughters, Karen Bloomer and Carolee Moore, attended the dedication ceremony on Thursday, Aug. 23 – Ann’s 100 th birthday, had she lived to see it.

“Dedicating the library to them is especially perfect since Ann was an avid reader and chair of one of the library committees on campus,” Fred Jr. said.

Although Fred Sr. passed away in 2011, soon after the couple’s move to the health care center, Ann stayed there for six years and received “phenomenal” care, according to Fred Jr. “They both supported the mission and truly loved the place,” he said.

Pictured above: The Ettline family with Masonic Villages staff in the library. Inset: The late Brother Fred Sr. and Ann Ettline.

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PHIL ANTHROPY

A New Life Awaits You

in one of 10 brand new villas at Masonic Village at Sewickley A Lifecare Community

Our newest villa neighborhood offers many layouts to suit your personal design style and preferences. Regardless of which you choose, maintenance-free living comes standard!

Once you’re settled in, get ready to enjoy the seemingly infinite number of recreational, social, cultural, wellness and educational possibilities that await outside your door. Engage in resident-run clubs and dozens of on-campus amenities. Take in a day trip for shopping, sports outings or entertainment,

Farm Fresh for the Holidays!

or plan that excursion you’ve been waiting for. At Masonic Village, you have the freedom and security to set the pace for your active retirement.

For more information, call 724-242-5099 or visit https:// masonicvillages.org/locations/sewickley/options/new-villas/

w w w.mv farmmarket .com

When ordering a gift box: • Please choose fruit butters & preserves from catalog listings.

• We will select the best apple varieties available, unless otherwise specified.

• Jarred goods may be replaced with many of our other products.

Prices may vary; please call for details.

• Gift certificates available.

Customized gift boxes are available year ‘round. However, those containing fruit are only available September - March.

Shipping costs vary by destination. Please call for details, 717-367-4520 or order online at www.MVFarmMarket.com

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The Townhomes at Sycamore Square

A Unique New Opportunity in Modern Mature Living Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s newest townhome neighborhood offers mature adults – professionals, “empty nesters” and all those looking forward to maintenance-free living – the opportunity to focus on their active lifestyles. One-level living with contemporary finishes and modern smart home design concepts, as well as access to exceptional dining, an on-campus wellness center, pools and tavern, make this a one-of-a-kind choice!

Select a home with the right amount of space, peace of mind and freedom for your active lifestyle. Enjoy the flexibility of selecting either the traditional plan, including access to all amenities and health care options, or a modified 60+ plan with a lower monthly rate. Both plans offer you 100 percent maintenance-free living and access to unrivaled dining, fitness and social opportunities.

Visit https://masonicvillages.org/sycamoresquare/ or call 717-473-0614 for more information.

MARKETPLACE

SycamoreSquareMarketplace.com

Building Features include:

• 4,310 sq. ft., of space with ample space for seasonal outdoor dining options • High ceilings and beautiful natural light • Large areas of exposed interior stone walls • Ample convenient parking • Utilities: Ample water, sewer, natural gas and power service is available.

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown is seeking a restaurant to lease part of one of its historical stone buildings in its Sycamore Square marketplace, adjacent to the Elizabethtown train station. The space can be renovated to suit.

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For more information and to discuss leasing opportunities, please call 717-367-1121, ext 33849, or email leasing@masonicvillages.org.

SycamoreSquareMarketplace.com

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PHIL ANTHROPY

Make a Difference this Season

NEW items inside the 2018-2019 Giving Catalogs Order catalogs: 1-800-599-6454 | Visit: MCHGivingCatalog.org & MVGivingCatalog.org

LOYALTY CLUB Support Your Favorite Charity Monthly

Monthly Giving Has Never Been Easier Authorize a specified amount of money to be electronically transferred directly from your checking account to your favorite Masonic Charity monthly.

Join the Loyalty Club Today Call 1-800-599-6454 or visit MasonicCharitiesPa.org/contact/

Benefits • No worries of checks getting lost, stolen or destroyed.

• M eet annual giving levels with ease by making smaller monthly gifts instead of one large annual gift.

• T he monthly electronic transfer or credit card charge will cost you NOTHING. • R eceive a year-end statement of monthly giving for easy tax preparation (your bank or credit card statements will also confirm transfers).

• Recognition in the Masonic Charities Annual Report.

• No longer receive annual appeals.

You can cancel your authorization at any time by notifying the Masonic Charities Office of Gift Planning in writing. But, once you have enjoyed the convenience and savings of this program, you won’t want to go back to the “old fashioned” way of donating!

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Masonic Charities

HOLIDAY SHOPPING?

Give Two Gifts for the Price of One!

If you plan to do some online shopping this holiday season, why not support our Masonic Charities with your purchases, at no additional cost to you? A gift for a loved one, a gift for a Masonic charity.

Here’s how it works.

When you shop at AmazonSmile, Amazon will donate 0.5% of the purchase price to the Masonic charity of your choice. Simply bookmark one of the following links so all of your eligible purchases will benefit your favorite Masonic charity every time you shop: MASONIC CHARITIES FUND smile.amazon.com/ch/23-2720910 MASONIC VILLAGES smile.amazon.com/ch/23-0846955 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION smile.amazon.com/ch/23-2188997 MASONIC LIBRARY AND MUSEUM OF PENNSYLVANIA smile.amazon.com/ch/23-2608317

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Qty Item Unit Cost Masonic Village at Dallas 1 Retractable awning $3,500 1 Gazebo $5,000 Masonic Village at Elizabethtown 10 Gift certificates for local restaurant $20 20 Hair care service gift certificates $25 20 Special bus trip certificates $25 11 WiFi (monthly service fee) $40 1 Smart DVD player $50 20 Home Care certificates $50 9 Clothing certificates $50 4 Massages or Healing Touch™ for pain $65 Hospitality cart supplies $100 5 Wellness memberships $120 1 Karaoke machine $140 Special events trip $150 2 Sharp sweepers $225 4 Shower chairs $350 4 Puzzle tables $500 3 Bariatric wheelchairs $500 1 Grill $500 10 iPads $500 4 Outdoor benches $875 3 Electric lift recliners $1,200 1 Vasocompression device $1,200 Week at the shore $1,500 4 Vital machines and stands $2,000 20 Specialty mattresses $2,500 1 New family/living room furniture $3,500 1 Blood pressure machine $4,000 1 Health Services Response Team vehicle $15,000 Remodel of bathroom $15,000 Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill 1 LifePack CR Plus $1,900 Harvest Ball resident event $2,500 Masonic Village at Sewickley 4 Shower chairs $350 8 Trash/linen carts $350 4 Vital machines and mobile stands $2,000 10 Beds and mattresses $2,500 1 Bladder scanner $7,500 1 “It’s Never 2 Late” computer system $9,000 technology Masonic Children’s Home 1 Flag stand for indoors $300 1 Electronic equipment $500 1 Sports equipment $500 1 Day trip $1,000 November 2018

MASONIC VILLAGES’

2018

WISH LIST

OFFICE OF GIFT PLANNING

1-800-599-6454

Thank you to those who have provided for the following items: Masonic Children’s Home Ronald A. and Judy A. McKnight: Various items Masonic Village at Dallas Allen J. and Helen E. Henninger: Defibrillators, AED wall cabinets and HeartStart Trainer Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, Order of Eastern Star, Inc.: Various items Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Ted J. and Alice S. Ackroyd: Gift cards and pool expense Margie Brown: Gift card for a restaurant William F. Gottschalk: Dave Stahl performance Bryan L. and Eileen H. Hill: WiFi service David A Parry: Specialty wheelchair cushion Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill Past Matrons of Radiant Chapter No. 96 Norristown: Trip for residents Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, Order of Eastern Star, Inc.: Various items Raymond E. and Annette M. Tierney: Harvest Ball Masonic Village at Sewickley Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, Order of Eastern Star, Inc.: Various items Hansen Foundation: Music Therapy program costs Masonic Village at Warminster Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, Order of Eastern Star, Inc.: Various items Lodge No. 9: China

There is an all-inclusive wish list posted on MasonicCharitiesPA. org, or feel free to contact the Office of Gift Planning at 1-800-5996454. Please note that if funds donated for any item listed are oversubscribed, the funds will be used for additional wish list items or needs in the same service area.

Masonic Villages www.masonicvillages.org 31 Masonic Charities www.masoniccharitiespa.org

ARE YOU AGE 70 ½ OR OLDER AND...

• Own an IRA? • Haven’t taken all of your required minimum distribution (RMD) this year?

• Don’t need all or part of RMD to live on?

• Hate to pay taxes?

• Enjoy helping others?

THEN CONSIDER THIS! Give all or part of your RMD to a Masonic Charity and you will:

• Make a child smile at the Masonic Children’s Home • Give comfort to a resident of the Masonic Villages that he or she will always have a place to live • Help fulfill the dream of a Masonic youth through a scholarship from The Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation • Forever preserve George Washington’s Masonic apron, and other artifacts, at the Masonic Temple, Library and Museum of Pennsylvania

ACT NOW!

Turn Your Required Minimum Distribution into a Qualified Charitable Distribution!

Call Masonic Charities at 1-800-599-6454 to find out how you can: • Give part or all of your RMD to one of the Masonic Charities listed above • Avoid taxes on your RMD • Make the world a better place • Put a smile on your face

THE BLITZ NEWSLETTER

If you would like to receive “The Blitz,” our complimentary newsletter on outreach services, financial and estate planning tips, just give us a call at 800-599-6454 or email mmeszaros@masonicvillages.org.

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.