Freemason - August 2010

The Pennsylvania

August 2010 • Volume LVII No. 3

Your

MASONIC VILLAGE

100Years Strong

2010 Conference of Grand Masters in Washington, D.C. In this photo, the conference attendees were posed and photographed to match the “Life� magazine cover from Oct. 8, 1956. R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon, shown in the front row, left of center, was elected chairman of the conference.

THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON ® VOL. LVII, AUGUST 2010, NO. 3

©2010 The R.W. Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of PA

Inside this Issue...

EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W.G.M. Jay W. Smith, R.W.D.G.M. Robert J. Bateman, R.W.S.G.W. Raymond T. Dietz, R.W.J.G.W. Jeffrey W. Coy, R.W.G.T. Mark A. Haines, R.W.G.S. EDITORIAL STAFF Tina L. Raybold - Production Coordinator Rich Johnson - Graphic Designer Thomas R. Labagh - Executive Director, PMYF, Consultant Masonic Library & Museum of PA Staff (Publication No. USPS 426-140) August 2010 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 The Pennsylvania Freemason ® or e-mailed to pafreemason@ masonicvillagespa.org. Except by special arrangement, all articles, photographs and artwork become the property of the Grand Lodge.

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• Renaissance Q & A with the Grand Master • Grand Master Calls for 1st Masonic Congress in 15 Years • Help for Our Heroes

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

• Good Deeds, Indeed • Adopt-a-Resident • Grand Master Sturgeon Congratulates... • Renaissance Impacts Smallest Lodges • Making History • Events & Accomplishments • 13th Annual Outdoor Meeting in the Hills • June 2010 Quarterly Communication

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.

19 Pennsylvania Freemason

• Feature: Bro. Samuel L. Clemens, a.k.a. Mark Twain • Feature: Ralph & Orpah Simons

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP (Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United States Code) August. 1, 2010, The Pennsylvania Freemason ®, published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Publishers: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Editor: Thomas K. Sturgeon. 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 134,000 each quarter.

I certify that the statements made by me are correct and complete.

21 Masonic Villages

• Discover the Masonic Villages • A Commitment to Conservation • Celebrating Our Youth • Masonic Village at Sewickley Projects • Haiti Relief Fund • West African Brother Visits • Celebrating a Century of Service • Masonic Villages’ 2010 Wish List Items • Autumn Day 2010

30 PA Masonic Youth Foundation • Educational Endowment Fund • HODEGOS Honorees for 2010 • Job’s Daughters Scholarship Pageant • Rainbow Assemblies Work for Many Charities • DeMolay Food Drive

Thomas K. Sturgeon, 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@masonicvillagespa.org.

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

Subscribe to the online edition! 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 e-mailing pafreemason@masonicvillagespa.org. An electronic version of the magazine is also available online at www.pagrandlodge.org.

Grand Lodge

Q

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with the Grand Master Question: Why do you feel membership in the fraternity is declining? How do you plan to remedy the situation?

Answer: All fraternal and public service groups are suffering the same declining membership.

Men just are not “joiners” as they were 50 years ago when they had more time to devote.

With 85 percent of homes being dual income families, men are now balancing demanding careers with added household duties. Our children and grandchildren are involved in more activities and we continue to be active in our communities.

It is my goal to make the Masonic fraternity more convenient and less time consuming so more good men cannot only join, but participate in meaningful ways. We have so much to offer, but we must be more contemporary to the 21st century than to the 19th century. The elements of the Renaissance will enable more men to become not just members, but active and involved brethren, because we are making it more inviting and easier for them to do so.

Question: Some brethren say that you violated your oath and obligation by printing the ritual.

Do you regret that decision?

Answer: No! In fact, it is the decision that I am most satisfied with. I do not feel that I violated my oath. The oath of the Grand Master is the prevailing oath for me, and in 4

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that oath I agreed to do the best for the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, and that is what I am doing. Without going into the specific parts of our ritual, let me say that the word “ritual” does not appear in our oath.

Nevertheless, I will protect and treasure our ritual more than any other person. Keep in mind that I have preserved the more sacred parts of the ritual by coding those parts. We are one of the last Grand Lodges to print our ritual; in fact, the ritual of several Grand Lodges is available on the Internet.

Printing the ritual is an important part of our Renaissance.

I have mandated our Director of the Ritualistic Work to protect the sanctity of our ancient ritual while making the process more in line with the 21st century. That means making the ritual easier to learn so our degrees will be more impressive and inspiring for our candidates. As a result, brothers all over this state are learning our beautiful ritual at an accelerated pace. Brothers who never tried to learn our ritual are now doing so and conferring degrees! To me, these are signs of success!

Do we consider it acceptable or meaningful for the degree ritual to be done in a very mediocre way with few, if any, brothers on the sidelines? Absolutely not! If we bring more men into this fraternity in a more dignified manner with excellent degree ritual and the

Grand Lodge sidelines are filled with interested brothers, we hit a home run.

The real question is, “what is the secret art and mystery of Freemasonry?” That has never been defined. My position is that the true secret art and mystery is the depth of the bonds of brotherly love and affection that we have for each other. It is the transformation that is undergone when a man becomes a Mason.

It is the tradition of moral excellence for men who have enjoyed the bonds of fraternal love.

The truth is, we are making it too much about the ritual and should be more focused on living the life of Masons by being good men exhibiting all of the attributes that we tell the world we represent.

Question: Some feel that the modified dress requirements and the ability to shorten the opening and closing rituals demonstrate a lessened respect for Freemasonry and our Masonic heritage. How do you respond?

Answer: What is Masonic heritage? Who is the definer of that term? When most do not wear a necktie to church, to the country club, to work or most other places, then why should we be so different? We can no longer march in one direction while the whole army is marching in the opposite direction and then think that the whole army is out of step. Every lodge in this jurisdiction is not operating in an air-conditioned lodge room with a cool fixed temperature. We need to be sensitive to the comfort of those brethren or

they may not attend the lodge. We are taught to judge a man on his character, not on his clothing. I will be there with a necktie on, but I’m giving you the choice.

Shorter meetings just make sense so we can make the most of our precious time together.

I think that what occurs before and after the meeting – when our true brotherhood is in full bloom – is just as important in nurturing our bonds as Freemasons.

Question: Doesn’t the ability to ask another man to join the fraternity undermine the age-old requirement that a man must take his own initiative to petition?

Answer: The truth is that a large percentage of brothers have been asking for years.

If we truly love this fraternity and believe in its teachings and principles, then why is it wrong to invite good and worthy men to join so they can benefit from the greatness that we enjoy? We should not be selfish and keep this brotherhood only for ourselves.

Question: Aren’t we lowering the bar for membership by requiring three black balls for denial?

Answer: If I thought, for even a millisecond, that this was wrong, I would not have done it. We have rejected too many good men for all of the wrong reasons. What does that say about the integrity of this grand old fraternity?

Most men are rejected because of the brother who recommends them.

In the end, a brother can still reject a candidate by going to the District Deputy Grand Master (DDGM) and stating his reason for rejection. If it is a valid reason, the rejection is issued by the DDGM, and the brother remains anonymous. This is a good system and has worked several times this year – in both directions.

Question: Do you feel allowing men to rush through all three degrees in one day makes the experience less personal and meaningful for the candidates?

Answer: Receiving three degrees in one day is not lowering anything. It provides some men the opportunity to join our ranks where otherwise they could not due to work schedules or serious time restraints.

Question: Masons have not traditionally sought publicity for our good works or allowed open installations. Why the shift in perspective?

Answer: Our closed past has harmed us in many ways. Freemasonry must become more open and transparent while preserving our ancient heritage. We need to shed the banner of total secrecy while we respect our ritual and our very few so-called secrets. Let’s tell the world who we are and what we have done for more than 280 years for the society in which we live, and at the same time be proud of what we stand for and of our accomplishments.

At the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s Centennial Banquet on June 26, an historical moment was captured as every living R.W. Past Grand Master (11 total) gathered for a photograph with R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon (center) and Bro. Joseph E. Murphy, CEO for the Masonic Villages (far right). The Past Grand Masters in attendance were, shown left-right: Brothers Stephen Gardner (2008-2009), Arthur J. Kurtz (1988-1989), Robert L. Dluge, Jr. (2000-2001), James L. Ernette (1998-1999), Edward O. Weisser (1996-1997), Edward H. Fowler, Jr. (1992-1993), William Slater II (2004-2005), George H. Hohenshildt (1994-1995), Marvin A. Cunningham, Sr. (2002-2003), Samuel C. Williamson (1982-1983), and Ronald A. Aungst, Sr. (2006-2007).

Photo by Kenneth R. Brooks

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Grand Master Calls for 1st Masonic Congress in 15 Years!

The 8th Pennsylvania Masonic Congress convened on June 19 in the Freemasons Cultural Center at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.

Called by R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon and moderated by Bro. Samuel C. Williamson, R.W. Past Grand Master, the Congress was attended by 13 Grand Lodge representatives, four York Rite leaders, 11 Scottish Rite officials, three Shrine leaders and five officers from the Tall Cedars of Lebanon.

Topics discussed included membership, dues and initiation fees, communications, relations among Masonic bodies, calendars and scheduling, regulations and other topics of mutual concern.

Grand Master Sturgeon charged the Congress members to embrace the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance program for the good of Freemasonry in Pennsylvania. He assured the brethren in attendance, “This Masonic Renaissance is not for me – it would have been easier not to do anything – it is for the future of our fraternity....”

Grand Master Sturgeon announced that he would be issuing two new decisions. The first decision would give all appendant bodies access to the Grand Lodge membership list for limited mailings under certain conditions that would protect the members’ privacy. The second will permit symbolic lodges to include information from appendant bodies in the printed lodge notice.

The Congress heard presentations on a variety of topics to stir discussion. Bro. Joseph E. Murphy, Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, Chief Executive Officer of the Masonic Villages, provided a PowerPoint overview of the 100-year history of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, and gave his assurance that the financial integrity of the villages has been maintained through recent difficult financial times. Bro. Kenneth E. Beard, P.D.D.G.M. of Masonic District 2 and Coordinator for the OneDay Masonic Journey in Harrisburg, reviewed the tentative schedule for the one-day events that will be held in 12 locations on Oct. 30, and answered many questions.

Bro. S. Eugene Herritt, D.D.G.M. for District 3, presented information regarding the financial challenges faced by the symbolic lodges, asking whether costs of being a Mason should be kept down so as to make membership affordable to all age groups. Bro. Rodney E. Boyce, D.D.G.M. of the 30th Masonic District, presented an overview of the restrictions currently in place regarding the publication of rosters of active members of the symbolic lodges, and reviewed the benefits of a published roster in order for Masons to 6

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know who their brother Masons are. This proposal generated significant discussion and debate. Bro. P. J. Roup, D.D.G.M. of the 54th Masonic District, discussed the importance of adhering to a minimum set of requirements for the leaders of the symbolic lodges and appendant bodies.

He stressed the importance of officers attending the Warden Training Seminars and other opportunities to enhance their ability to provide Masonic leadership.

Bro. Richard N. Fitzsimmons, D.D.G.M. of the 24th Masonic District, offered a comprehensive report on the Masonic Summit held in his district on Feb. 6 in order to improve the working relationship among the various lodges and appendant bodies, including the youth groups, that meet in District 24. Two of the key components of communication include a Web page and a shared calendar of events that will enable all of the Masonic bodies in the district to coordinate their plans. This prompted spirited discussion of the creation of a shared online calendar of events that would list the meetings and activities of Grand Lodge and the appendant grand bodies. The Grand Master noted that this was an excellent idea that will be added to the list of Grand Lodge projects to implement later in his term.

A discussion of suspensions and how they affect the appendant bodies ensued, with the Grand Master acknowledging that the Grand Lodge needs to do a better job of notifying the appendant bodies when members of the symbolic lodges are suspended for non-payment of dues.

The Grand Master also outlined a new “amnesty” program to bring suspended members back to active membership more easily.

Grand Master Sturgeon remarked that the Grand Lodge is still working on the project to enable the payment of dues through the use of a credit card or an automatic checking account withdrawal, and that this opportunity should make the payment of dues much easier for the membership, with implementation expected for the coming fall.

A discussion on wearing regalia by appendant bodies at symbolic lodge meetings resulted in clarifying that it would be permissible to wear a special apron displaying the emblem of the appendant body. It would only be permissible for an appendant organization to wear its regalia to symbolic lodge meetings when presenting a program on its organization.

Bro. Williamson led a discussion on the value of the 2010 Masonic Congress and the support that future congresses would receive.

The overwhelming response was in support of a Masonic Congress being held every other year.

Bro. Jay W. Smith, R.W. Deputy Grand Master, thanked the Grand Master for having the vision and foresight to organize the Masonic Congress. He explained to everyone that he is 100 percent in support of the R.W. Grand Master and his programs that are providing for a true 21st Century Masonic Renaissance in Pennsylvania. “There is this perception out there that in two years we will return to where we were before, but I am here to tell you that that’s not going to happen ... these programs are working, and I like what I see going on in my lodge and all across the state.” Bro. Robert J. Bateman, R.W. Senior Grand Warden, and Bro. Raymond T. Dietz, R.W. Junior Grand Warden, also indicated their ongoing support of the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance.

The Masonic Congress accomplished its goal of bringing together the leaders of Freemasonry across Pennsylvania to discuss ideas of mutual concern to all of the Masonic bodies. With a better understanding of the needs of each group, we can work together to improve the Masonic fraternity.

The first Pennsylvania Masonic Congress was called in April 1961 by R. W. Grand Master Max F. Balcom. The second was called by R.W. Past Grand Master Williamson in April 1983.

The third Masonic Congress was held in August 1992, and successive Congresses were held with one in 1993, two in 1994 and one in 1995.

Grand Lodge

Help for Our Heroes Your generous donations to the Help for Our Heroes program continue to provide meaningful communications and needed supplies to our troops bravely serving our country.

Each month, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania provides McGuire Air Force Base 150 pre-paid calling cards for troops deploying through the base, and recently gave an additional 250 cards to airmen deploying from McGuire Air Force Base to Afghanistan. Cards are also regularly transported to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany for troops injured while serving overseas. Grand Lodge also supports the Pennsylvania Air National Guard Unit out of Harrisburg with cards as requested for their continued deployments.

As a way of showing appreciation for the Pennsylvania Freemasons’ support, McGuire Air Force Base asked Bro. and Col. Harris Brooks (Ret.), Brotherhood Lodge No. 126, Philadelphia, how they could show their appreciation to the Grand Lodge. With the Adopt-a-Resident initiative in mind, Bro. Brooks arranged, on behalf of the Grand Lodge, for members of Brotherhood Lodge No. 126 to take Masons who are veterans living at the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill on a tour of the base and its weapons systems.

On June 16, the men, many of whom are

veterans of WWII or the Korean War, and several Masons from Brotherhood Lodge No. 126 met at McGuire Air Force Base. While on board the C17 aircraft, the residents watched as Staff Sgt. Richard Slifer, Jr., presented a petition to become a Mason to Bro. Brooks (pictured at right). After touring the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia, Staff Sgt. Slifer’s experience, combined with his interaction with Masons at the base, inspired his interest in membership.

He will become a Master Mason during the One-Day Masonic Journey prior to his scheduled deployment. Col. John Spare (pictured above, second from left) also recently presented a petition to join the fraternity.

Masonic Village resident and Bro. Benjamin Levinson was surprised and honored to discover that his grandson-in-law, Major and Bro. Daniel Fehl, Brotherhood Lodge No. 126, was the C17’s pilot that day. Next, the group proceeded to the KC-10 tanker for a tour. “[The residents] asked great questions,” Bro. Brooks said. “It was like they never left the service.”

Following lunch at the officers club, the men visited the military dog training area where they met the canines trained to attack, sniff out bombs and identify drugs.

The military at McGuire truly rolled out

the red carpet for the Masonic veterans. “It was a great day,” Bro. Brooks said, noting that the young airmen who accompanied the residents during the visit seemed as excited to hear the residents’ stories as the veterans were to meet the airmen.

Also as part of the Help for Our Heroes program, the Grand Lodge will participate with an organization to collect and send Christmas stockings to Marines and sailors in Fallujah.

These are not just your run-of-the-mill Christmas stockings, however: they contain necessary items such as inserts for their boots, cleaning cloths for their weapons, lights for their helmets and other items they can’t get easily though federal supply systems. Through Help for Our Heroes, the Grand Lodge is also working with leadership at the Veterans’ hospital in Philadelphia to support programs for our local wounded veterans.

Please, keep those donations coming...

Our heroes need your help!

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Good Deeds, Indeed With the arrival of warm weather throughout the state, came countless opportunities for Masons and lodges to serve their neighbors, friends and communities. From sharing home-grown produce with friends, to cleaning up cemeteries and roadways, to removing fallen trees and mowing lawns for neighbors who cannot, Masons in Pennsylvania are serving their communities in various practical ways. The next generation is being impacted as lodges support local sports teams, Masons install basketball backboards at schools, speakers conduct worship services and men serve as Boy Scout and DeMolay leaders. Through all of these deeds, people are learning who Freemasons are and the values for which we stand.

Random Acts of Kindness

Throughout Pennsylvania, many Masons are performing random acts of kindness, and some of them are even inviting and inspiring others to join them as they serve people in need.

For the past seven to eight years, Bro. Joseph A. Cirilo, P.M., King David Lodge No. 763, Kingston, and his family have volunteered twice a month at the West Side Food Pantry located at the Church of Christ Uniting in Kingston. The food pantry operates every Tuesday and Thursday and provides meals for about 35 families each day it is open. During Easter and Christmas, families receive baskets of food which include a turkey or ham. “There was a time in our lives when we were down and out after an accident, and we needed a helping hand. Now that we’re a little better off, we want to do what we can to help others who need it,” Bro. Cirilo said. This regular act of kindness has been teaching his children since they were young that community service is important, and now his son has joined DeMolay. “As a Freemason, 8

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I’ve seen how a random act of kindness or a small helping hand can make all the difference in the world,” Bro. Cirilo said.

when you compare it to the sacrifices he and his fellow veterans made for our country, but we were proud to help him in this small way, nonetheless,” Bro. Dalnodar said.

Bro. Thomas Morgan, Concord Lodge No. 625, Concordville, and his wife, Patricia, walk almost every afternoon along a path near the local high school baseball fields, often stopping to watch the games. The fields are near a wooded area, and baseballs have a habit of finding themselves in the underbrush. Since the fields were built about five years ago, Bro. and Mrs. Morgan have altered their normal walking route to travel through the woods in order to pick up baseballs which they return to the teams. The couple turns up anywhere from two to 15 balls during their walks, which saves the teams from needing to purchase new ones.

“The coaches know us, that I’m a Mason with commendable character, and are not surprised by our act of kindness,” Bro. Morgan said. He describes acts of kindness as dominoes. His little act may inspire someone else to extend a helping hand and so on. Indirectly, his small gesture has improved dozens of lives.

Bro. James Percy, Stephen Bayard Lodge No. 526, Elizabeth, is using his business, Vocelli Pizza, to impact his community with the gift of food.

He and his employees seek out organizations on a weekly basis which could benefit from pizzas, breadsticks, pasta or anything else the restaurant serves. “I like to give food, in the summer, to a group of kids in Clairton from the day care center … It seems like they don’t get surprises like that often,” Bro. Percy said. “They always clap and jump around. I wish I could do that every day.” His business has donated food to church groups, the local Lions Club, Sister’s Place, Inc., the Clairton Family Center, parents raising money for their child with cancer and other organizations. “It is easier for us to give food rather than money because we buy our food wholesale, and by donating food, we are offsetting the community groups’ expenses,” Bro. Percy said.

An older gentleman was seated, tired and distressed when Bro. Sean Dalnodar, Royersford Lodge No. 585, spotted him on an evening walk in April. The man was a disabled veteran, and after introductions, Bro. Dalnodar realized that the hero was lost and had been trying for several hours to find his way back to his assisted living home. With darkness closing in, Bro. Dalnodar got a vehicle and a neighbor who knew where the assisted living home was located, and together they took the man home.

“This wasn’t a huge act of kindness, especially

Bro. William Horn, Steelton-Swatara Lodge No. 775, Steelton, saw a man with a brokendown truck on the side of the highway, so he put on work gloves and changed the man’s flat tire. The man, weak from illness, offered Bro. Horn $20 for the favor. The brother graciously refused, and took the opportunity to explain why completing good deeds was his duty as a Mason.

The man thanked Bro. Horn and the fraternity for his kind actions. “This man had the deep look of gratitude in his eyes. It was beyond just a ‘thank you;’ it was genuine gratitude,” Bro.

Lodge Horn said. “No amount of thanks, no amount of money, can make me feel as good as the genuine feeling of goodwill and gratitude that a person gives you when you simply give him a hand.”

On July 3, Bro. Jim Dillow, Howell Lodge No. 405, Honey Brook, arrived home from Smithers, W.V., after a week of building sturdy houses and strong youth. The trip, organized through the Pennsylvania Area Christian Association (PACE) and local churches, gives West Virginia homeowners the opportunity to purchase supplies to fix up their houses while receiving free labor from the 72 youth and their leaders at the camp, as well as students from the Southern Appalachian Labor School (SALS).

If the homeowners cannot afford the supplies, the government can provide assistance. The church groups take their own tools and pay for their food and lodging while they work.

“It’s a service to the community and it’s also what God wants us to do,” Bro. Dillow, who has made the trip for eight years, said. “The people who we go down there and see the next year are so thankful!”

washes, a neutralizing process and painting.

After about 300 hours of work by Masons and some family members, renovations to other areas of the pool (such as the women’s bathroom), the pool was ready for children to enjoy during the summer. “It was a lot of hard work, but we had a lot of fun,” Bro. Garzella said.

In June, Lewistown Lodge No. 203 presented a check for $300 to Lewistown High School graduate Kate Fisher. She will use the money to help purchase a service dog which will assist her in the fall when she attends Edinboro University to study psychology. Having the service dog will remove many of the barriers that she could face in her new surroundings.

Community Service Through Lodges

“Following our Right Worshipful Grand Master’s directive to get our name in the public eye, we thought that we would volunteer to supply the labor and paint to repair the badly damaged kids’ pool (in West Pittston), and do any other repair jobs that needed to be done,” Bro. Cataldo Garzella, P.M., J.W., Valley Lodge No. 499, West Pittston, said. When members presented the idea at a council meeting, the request was answered by a standing ovation. The lodge picked up keys to the pool and began a two-month process of multiple power-washings, cement removal, cement patching, two acid

Presenting the check to Kate are Bros. Leonard Nadolny, W.M.; Douglas Koch, S.W.; and Mark Laub, J.W.

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a permanent memento of the event. Altogether, the trophies took 75 hours of work to complete.

“The brethren were very involved and enjoyed the time spent in helping make a difference for a very worthy group in our community,” Bro. Richard Bence said.

Members of Canawacta Lodge No. 360, Susquehanna, recently hosted a 100th anniversary chicken BBQ dinner for the local Boy Scouts.

During the event, 108-year-old Bro. Ira Reynolds was honored for his 90 years of service to the Boy Scouts. He received his 50-Year Service Award to Freemasonry in 2002, at age 100.

The Paxtang Borough hosted its first-ever Patriot Camp for a week beginning July 2.

The camp, conceived by councilwoman Debra Seneca, wife of Bro. James Capp, Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, Harrisburg, taught children about flag etiquette, the Pledge of Allegiance, the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. To round out the educational experience, the borough asked Masons from the Valley of Harrisburg AASR to dress up as founding fathers. With less than two weeks notice, the Masons began to research their characters and visited with 60 youth and their counselors for three hours.

The kids were enthralled with the opportunity

In March, members of Kane Lodge No. 566 gathered at Bro. Dan Jordan’s machine shop to help him make trophies for Pinewood Derby competitions held in Kane among the local Cub Scout packs. Bro. Harry Whittemore picked up and planed the wood, and together, the brethren sanded, stained and assembled 58 trophies. The wooden trophies had lettering etched into them, a place to attach the winning pack’s patch and slots in the base so the Cub Scouts’ Pinewood Derby car could sit in the trophy as

Bros. Cataldo Garzella, P.M., J.W.; William H. Lamoreux, S.W.; John C. Pearce; Martin G. Marcy, W.M.; Sean P. Gresh, S.M.C.; James R. Riddell, P.M.; William J. Goldsworthy, Mayor of West Pittston; and Members of Kane Lodge No. 566 making trophies in Bro. Dan Jordan’s shop Ralph C. Leibig; J.D., on the first day of work.

The “Founding Fathers” included: Bro. John Austin as George Washington, Bro. Ken Beard, P.D.D.G.M., as Benjamin Franklin, Bro. James Capp as James Madison and Bro. and State Senator Jeffrey Piccola as Thomas Jefferson, all of Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, Harrisburg; Bro. S. Eugene Herritt, D.D.G.M., Cumberland Valley Lodge No. 315, Shippensburg, as John Adams; Bro. Randy C. Knapp, Lowther Manor Lodge No. 781, Camp Hill, as Sam Adams; Bro. Richard Auchey, Patmos Lodge No. 348, Hanover, as John Hancock; Bro. David W. Berry, Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, as Rev. George Whitefield; and prospective member Mike Anderson as Paul Revere.

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to meet these distinguished leaders and to ask questions. Local television and newspaper coverage was extensive. A favorite question directed to George Washington was, “Did you really have to eat your shoes at Valley Forge?”

farmland to grow crops for the Westmoreland County Food Bank. Each Monday evening, volunteers weed, plant, harvest and tie tomato plants, which is what the members of the lodge did that evening. Worshipful Master Robert S. Metcalfe, P.M., has pledged for the lodge to continue its service through October, when the garden’s harvest will be completed for this year.

Afterward, the members shared refreshments and fellowship at a local restaurant.

People picking up snacks at the rest stop

Bro. Charles Lord, Melanie Parks, Page McKonly and Ben Ovadia Bro. Charles Lord, P.M., Brotherhood Lodge No. 126, Philadelphia, was wandering through a thrift store when he spotted a power wheelchair in excellent condition. He spent the next hours calling the executive committee of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon Forest, of which he is the Grand Tall Cedar. The committee decided that purchasing a chair that would normally cost about $1,500 for only $270 was a more than proper use of funds. The Forest e-mailed its primary charity, the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), which responded that the MDA Equipment Loan Program could benefit from the chair. This program consists of a warehouse of medical equipment and technicians. As families’ medical needs are identified, the MDA Equipment Loan Program can assist until a permanent solution is found.

On March 30, Main Line Forest No. 153 of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon presented the power wheelchair to the MDA. The process sparked an interest in continuing to acquire and donate medical equipment to the association and other worthy programs.

Every Labor Day, Bluestone Lodge No. 338, Hallstead, has set up tables, tents and signs at a local rest stop to hand out free coffee, soda, hot dogs, candy, baked goods and snacks for donations. On average, the fund raiser brings in $3,000 to $4,000 in donations for charity.

Besides providing important funding for the charities, the event makes hundreds of people aware of Freemasonry and shows the impact it has on the community.

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On the first day of trout season, the members of Oasis Lodge No. 416, Edinboro, staged the Third Annual Kids’ Fishing Contest at Mallory Run, a special location where adults are not allowed to fish, but they may help their children fish without a fishing license. Each year, about 75 children up to age 12 participate with the help of their parents and more than a dozen brethren.

Thanks to donors such as Bro. Dave Fulford and Bro. Al Doré, children won quality prizes, such as fishing rods and reels, for the longest fish in three age groups. This year’s overall winner was a 5-year-old with a 15-inch trout!

“This event affords the community, especially the parents of the participants, an opportunity to see how Freemasons give of their time and talents to organize the contest, measure fish, serve coffee and generally make an already fun day even more enjoyable for the kids involved,” Bro. Peter Kraus, P.M., said.

“We’re hopeful that some of these parents may like what they see and may desire to connect themselves with our fraternity!”

Brethren of Westmoreland Lodge No. 518 after volunteering at Hunger Garden

Supporting the Masonic Villages

To stress the importance of individual lodges’ support of the Masonic Villages, Bro. Dan Carlisle, W.M., Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, asked the question, “If we can’t take care of our own, what good are we?” Throughout the state, lodges are answering that question by donating funds to the Masonic Villages, and some lodges located near a village are stepping up in even more personal ways.

On May 1, Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, Harrisburg, hosted its 7th Annual Golf Outing.

The event began as a way of encouraging fraternal fellowship, but this year, the lodge decided to make it into a fund raiser benefiting the Masonic Villages and Toys for Tots. Twentyfour people gathered for a morning of golfing, competitions and raffles, followed by a picnic lunch. Each participant received a brochure about Freemasonry. The golf outing raised $600, which was split between the two charities. “Supporting our Masonic Charities is a fundamental part of being a Freemason in Pennsylvania,” Bro. Michael McGinnis, W.M., said. “As for having this event also benefit a community- and militaryBro. Bill Temple awards the first prize in the 10 to 12 age based charity, we – as Freemasons – are deeply group to Dave Ingalls, an Edinboro area resident. concerned with our communities and with those who serve this great country.”

Members of Robert Burns Lodge plan to On July 12, several members of Westmoreland raise more money for the Masonic Villages this Lodge No. 518, Greensburg, volunteered at the year and actively engage in the lives of residents local Hunger Garden near Madison, Pa. The at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Their Hunger Garden is the creation of the Shaver financial contributions through the Grand family, who donates more than 10 acres of Master’s plan are in addition to the lodge’s

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Beyond financial support, in 2010, lodge members also began showing up early to lodge so they could help transport brothers from the Masonic Health Care Center to lodge meetings.

“I think it’s awfully rewarding,” Bro. Carlisle said. “Part of our fraternity is fellowship, and I’m honored and humbled to have them attend with us.”

Golfers participating in Robert Burns Lodge No. 464’s 7th Annual Golf Outing three-year commitment to raise $15,000 for another Tree of Life at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. The lodge made its final $5,000 payment toward the commitment earlier this year.

When Bro. Carlisle first announced the Grand Master’s call for lodges to financially support the Masonic Villages at Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682’s meeting, lodge members donated the money on that very day. Since then, the lodge has gone above and beyond its call of duty to provide for the needs of adult and youth residents as well as employees and their families.

“The partnership among the village, the lodges and the community makes us all stronger,” Bro. Carlisle said. The lodge considers the people at the Masonic Village to be family.

When one of the teens at the Masonic Children’s Home had the opportunity to travel to Belize, Treichler Lodge gave her $500. When an LPN, a single mother, needed additional funds to pay for her gifted daughter’s school tuition, the lodge provided $1,000. In both scenarios, the members pledged to provide additional support if the mother and teen needed it. The lodge has purchased at least two Broda chairs, specially designed chairs for residents with little to no mobility, at $2,800 each. The lodge also coordinated with the Masonic Children’s Home to create a bike program so each child has access to a safe and well-cared-for bicycle.

Officers of Treichler Lodge No. 682 who served as hosts and servers for the District 36 dinner

On June 21, 31 brethren and ladies from the 36th Masonic District travelled by bus to dine and meet with 24 brethren and ladies residing at the Masonic Village during their third annual visit to Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown. District 36 includes Chester Lodge No. 236; George Bartram-Paul Sand Lodge No. 298, Media; Prospect Lodge No. 578; Concord Lodge No. 625, Prospect Park; Penn Lodge No. 709, Concordville; Lansdowne Lodge No. 711; and Springfield-Hanby Lodge No. 767, Springfield.

The program for the evening included a pre-meeting dinner for brethren of the 36th Masonic District and their ladies residing at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown and the Past Masters of Treichler Lodge and their ladies. The officers of Treichler Lodge, along with young men from the DeMolay, served as waiters for the catered dinner. Following dinner, all brethren attended Treichler Lodge’s Stated Meeting where Past Masters were honored. During the meeting, the ladies enjoyed an interesting “chalk-talk.”

The evening was capped with Treichler Lodge’s annual strawberry and ice cream reception.

Bro. Joseph W. Capone, P.M., Secretary, (gold Jacket) and Bro. Charles J. Andrews, P.M., bow their heads in prayer.

Village at Elizabethtown with his wife and a friend to speak at the service. Lodge Secretary Bro. Joseph W. Capone, P.M., printed the prayer booklet and helped Bro. Andrews conduct the service. Afterward, Bro. Frederick E. Ryan, P.M., and Bro. Kevin F. Carroll, P.M., and his lady prepared a dessert table with homemade chocolate-covered strawberries and bundt cakes.

Following the social, Bro. James E. McGurn, W.M., took all the brethren and their ladies to the General Lafayette Inn & Brewery for lunch.

Sharing Inspiration

To take the words of Bro. Lord: “Brethren, as we have been instructed before, ‘Go forth and do good works!’”

As you do those good works, take the time to record them on the Random Acts of Kindness Registry at www.pagrandlodge.org/ rak. Making a submission is easy; just click on “Submit a Random Act of Kindness or a Community Service Initiative” and fill in the fields that appear. Once you are done, click the button “Add Your Report to the Registry,” and you will see your submission within several days.

No matter how noteworthy or insignificant you may think they are, your random acts of kindness will provide inspiration to others. It will help to foster the bond of brotherhood between men who have never even met. Together, through Brethren and ladies of District 36 dine with Masonic Random Acts of Kindness and Lodge Community Service Initiatives, we can show the world that Village residents.

Masons in Pennsylvania embody the principles of charity and service and provide hope and encouragement to those whose paths we cross.

In other areas of the state, lodges are showing their dedication to the Masonic Villages in personal ways. On May 16, the members of Philadelphia-Potter Lodge No. 72, Philadelphia, held their 113th consecutive Memorial Day Service at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill. The theme this year was “Jesus my Redeemer.” Bro. Charles J. Andrews, P.M., drove from the Masonic

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Adopt-A-Resident Catherine Delevan sat in her dining room in the Masonic Health Care Center in Elizabethtown with an unopened box resting on a chair in front of her. When Sarah Keene, social worker, approached her, Catherine expressed confusion as to who was sending her the package. “I helped her open the brightly-colored tissue paper that was wrapping the blanket. She saw the purple and pink blanket and held it up as high as she could from her wheelchair. Catherine had a HUGE smile on her face,” Keene said. “I will always remember how excited Catherine was to receive that blanket.” The quilt reminded Catherine of a baby’s blanket, with its purple, pink and white triangles and delicate swirled stitching. The gift brought back memories of her own mother and children.

Catherine’s name and King Solomon Lodge No. 584 are stitched into the back of the quilt – a constant reminder to Catherine that she has friends at the lodge. Catherine’s gift is part of the Adopt-A-Resident program initiated by R.W. Grand Master Thomas Sturgeon. Through this program, the lodge has committed to making sure Catherine knows someone is thinking about her by visiting her when possible, sending a card or gift for her birthday and holidays, and looking after her general needs.

“I think it’s important that we stay in touch with some of the older people and let them know they’re still a part of the Masonic traditions.

It’s part of giving back to the community and giving back to where we came from,” Bro. Gerald Warnero, secretary of King Solomon Lodge, said.

Soon after the program began, Bro. Warnero called to sign up. The lodge was looking specifically for someone from the Scranton area 12

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so its members could provide the resident with “a taste of home.”

Ginny Gowden, wife of Bro. William Gowden, has been quilting for nine years. “I have been making quilts and sending them to the Irem Shrine Country Club to send to the Shriners Hospitals for the children for the past few years,” Ginny said. “When my husband asked me to make a quilt for their ‘adoptee,’ I thought it was a wonderful idea!”

While distance makes regular visits to the Masonic Village difficult for members, the lodge hopes to send monthly gifts and cards to Catherine, and other wives are also getting involved to make it happen. One woman has already compiled a care package with art supplies to help keep Catherine busy.

In Sewickley, James and Marjorie Miller have expressed that the most meaningful thing a lodge could do for them is to visit. Through the Adopt-A-Resident program, Dallas Lodge No. 231, Pittsburgh, has committed to doing just that. The members of the lodge had never met the Millers before adopting them, but when Bro. George Clementon, W.M. of Dallas Lodge, and his wife and son visited the couple for the first time, they had plenty to talk about, including Freemasonry, family and the local area. “If you’ve met the Millers, you know they’re a beautiful couple,” Bro. Clementon said. By reaching out to the Millers, Bro. Clementon has found an inspiring couple whom the entire lodge can look up to. He hopes to visit the Millers several times a month since his son attends school nearby, and several

other brothers who live in the Sewickley area have also expressed interest in stopping by.

The lodge has an “in” at the Masonic Village at Sewickley in the form of Bro. H. Paul Brickner, a member of the lodge and active resident of the Valley Care Masonic Center. The Millers can contact Bro. Brickner if they ever need information about the lodge or even simply a friend.

Across the state, bonds are being strengthened among Masonic Village residents and brothers and their families through participation in the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance.

“Grand Master Sturgeon’s ideas and concepts about Freemasonry are in the right place at the right time and are what is needed,” Bro. Clementon said.

While many residents have active families and friends, some no longer have family members and could benefit greatly from reestablishing the bonds of brotherhood with lodge members.

Many residents are open to sharing how lodges can best support their needs, but besides visiting and sending cards and gifts, consider taking brothers to lodge events and meetings; cooking a meal with a resident; asking to see family photos and reminiscing together; having your children or grandchildren draw pictures and present them to the residents; teaching the adoptee to use a computer; asking a resident to teach you a skill such as tying flies, calligraphy,

Lodge knitting, woodworking or another hobby; enjoying lemonade outside together; attending a Masonic Village activity together; helping residents decorate for or clean up from the holidays; assisting a resident with pulling out or putting away seasonal clothes; or helping sort through mail or completing other chores.

If your lodge does not know who to adopt, the Adopt-A-Resident program coordinators listed below can help you connect with a resident or a resident couple. If your lodge has adopted a resident, but has not contacted an Adopt-AResident program coordinator at one of the Masonic Villages, please contact an individual listed. It is important for the Masonic Village to keep track of who has been adopted so the program coordinators can make recommendations to inquiring lodges.

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown:

Cynthia Hollinger: (717) 367-1121, ext. 33175 or cholling@masonicvillagespa.org

Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill:

Lynn Christ: (610) 825-6100, ext. 1271 or lchrist@masonicvillagespa.org Diana Sody: (610) 825-1600, ext. 1214 or dsody@masonicvillagespa.org

Masonic Village at Sewickley:

Ann Beck: (412) 741-1400, ext. 3200 or abeck@masonicvillagespa.org Cindy Stefl: (412) 741-1400, ext. 3600 or cstefl@masonicvillagespa.org

Masonic Village at Warminster:

Anne Maher: (215) 672-2500, ext. 112 or amaher@masonicvillagespa.org Joyce Wadsworth: (215) 672-2500, ext. 116 or jwadswor@masonicvillagespa.org

Thank you to the following lodges and districts who are already participating in the Adopt-AResident Program: ELIZABETHTOWN Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown Butler Lodge No. 272 Chandler Lodge No. 227, West Reading Christiana Lodge No. 417 Concordia Lodge No. 67, Jenkintown District A District 3 District 18 District 20 District 36 Duquesne-McKeesport Lodge No. 731, Duquesne Easton Lodge No. 152 Hebron Lodge No. 465, New Oxford Honesdale Lodge No. 218 Isaac Hiester Lodge No. 660, West Reading Cambria Lodge No. 278, Johnstown J. Simpson Africa Lodge No. 628, Stroudsburg Juniata Lodge No. 282, Hollidaysburg King Solomon Lodge No. 584, Dunmore Lamberton Lodge No. 476, Lancaster Lodge No. 2, Philadelphia

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Lodge No. 43, Lancaster Marion Lodge No. 562, Connellsville Norristown Lodge No. 620 Perseverance Lodge No. 21, Harrisburg Pollock Lodge No. 502, Tarentum Reading Lodge No. 549, West Reading Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, Harrisburg St. Alban Lodge No. 529, Philadelphia Washington Lodge No. 156, Quarryville William S. Snyder Lodge No. 756, Harrisburg Williamson Lodge No. 309, Downingtown W. K. Bray Lodge No. 410, Hatboro SEWICKLEY Dallas Lodge No. 231, Pittsburgh Franklin Lodge No. 263, Laceyville Ligonier Lodge No. 331 Somerset Lodge No. 358 Harmony Lodge No. 429, Zelienople Valley Lodge No. 613, Valley Creek William D. McIlroy Lodge No. 269, Pittsburgh LAFAYETTE HILL Kind David Lodge No. 763, Kingston Care has been taken in the creation of this list.

We regret any omissions and encourage lodge secretaries to contact a program coordinator if your lodge is not listed.

Grand Master Sturgeon Congratulates the following lodges & districts for obtaining the greatest number of petitions, either for the OneDay Masonic Journey or traditional classes, as of June 30, 2010: Top Lodges

Top Districts

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531

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331

3

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245

B

682

60

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C

465

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Also, 145 lodges reported ZERO suspensions for 2010!

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Renaissance Impacts Smallest Lodges The 21st Century Masonic Renaissance has passed its six-month milestone, a point at which it is helpful to remember why so much emphasis is being placed on introducing new ideas, vitality and change to Pennsylvania Freemasonry.

The number of blue lodges in the state of Pennsylvania has dramatically decreased as older members pass away, and there are not enough new members to carry the torch. As lodges merge or dissolve, years of history and tradition may be lost. Last year alone, eight lodges merged, while one lodge, Lehigh Valley Day Lodge No. 813, Macungie, was constituted, bringing the total number of Pennsylvania lodges to 432. In the last 280 years of Pennsylvania Freemasonry history, 381 lodges have merged or dissolved.

Like the foundation bricks of a building, each lodge has its place in supporting the overall structure of the fraternity. Each time a lodge is removed, the grand “structure” becomes weaker.

The smallest lodges across the state, despite having the unwavering dedication of officers and members and active community involvement, are at the greatest risk for being lost if the goals of the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance go unmet.

Robert A. Lamberton Lodge No. 487, Philadelphia, which meets in the Masonic Temple, was constituted in 1871 and was named after Bro. Robert Lamberton, R.W. Grand Master in 1869 and 1870.

From the lodge’s inception, members focused on charity, coming to the aid of brothers affected by the Chicago fire of 1871 and the Johnstown flood in 1889. Over the years, the lodge became known for its celebratory banquets featuring elaborate menus. After World War I, the tempo in the lodge increased, and it became famous for its various musical showcases, earning the nicknames “Live Wire Lodge” and “The Musical Lodge.”

The Great Depression had a slight effect on lodge events, but it quickly recovered and had upwards of 600 members in the 1950s.

By the 1970s, however, it was no longer able, financially, to host the lavish entertainment and banquets of its formative years. Society in general was changing as men moved their families to suburbia. In 1971, the 100th anniversary of the lodge’s constitution, membership stood at 342. As of 2010, it stands at 70.

“A small but strong and determined group of brothers continues to ‘keep the lights burning,’” the lodge’s Web site states.

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Arcana Lodge No. 580, Austin “We’re a close knit family, with a core group who are very active,” Bro. Larry D. Dial, Jr., W.M., said. “Filling the chairs can be a challenge, but I think every lodge has that issue. I would like to see enough brothers coming out to keep the lodge a functioning entity.”

Since the lodge meets in the Masonic Temple, it is more of challenge to host events, but they give charitable donations to local organizations and coordinate CHIP events. Bro. Dial has been a member for four years, although he wishes it was more like 25.

“I wanted to join when I was 18, but I was given bad information about the fraternity,” he said. “Later, I met a Mason, who is now our lodge secretary, and learned what the organization is truly about. I’m hoping through the Masonic Renaissance we can get more exposure, so people don’t just go by half-truths they see on TV. This is a really meaningful opportunity to invite new people to experience what I’ve come to love. If we don’t do something now, it’s just going to get worse.”

Wyalusing Lodge No. 618 was constituted Oct. 18, 1898, and at its peak was home to about 140 members. Currently, with 70 members, the close-knit lodge continues to actively participate in chicken BBQs and hands out Masonic materials at various festivals in the community, although managing their finances and maintaining their lodge building is becoming challenging.

“Increasing membership is our primary goal,” Bro. Lynn Heath, W.M., said. “Family members from different generations are no longer joining. It’s tough to get people to join with so much else going on in their lives. The initiatives of the Grand Master have a lot of potential if they work the way we want them to.”

Bro. George Lehoczky, W.M., Canawacta Lodge No. 360, Susquehanna, became a Mason six years ago after finally asking one of his friends, who was a 30-year Mason, about

the organization and how to join. He quickly worked his way through the chairs and hopes other men see the light as he did.

“It’s a trustworthy organization, based on the integrity of the members,” he said. “Our word is our bond. Honesty is a big part of it. I think sometimes guys sign up and don’t understand what they’re getting into, and it scares them.”

His lodge was constituted Feb. 7, 1866, and currently has 67 members, although about eight members typically attend meetings. The lodge has never had more than 72 members, as far as he recalls. Holding community BBQs six times a year and serving approximately 150 local senior citizens at an annual holiday meal for the last 20 years keeps them busy. They received two petitions in June, and Bro. Lehoczky is optimistic that this is just the beginning.

“What makes the Masonic Renaissance important to me and Canawacta Lodge No. 360 is that it gives us more ways to show the general public who we are and what we stand for,” Bro. W. Scott Muller, D.D.G.M., District 15, said.

Arcana Lodge No. 580 was constituted June 18, 1890, in the borough of Austin. With a population of 632 as of the 2000 census, Austin has a history of milling, an industry which was unable to sustain itself after the Austin Dam broke in 1911, destroying the town, causing $10 million in damage and killing 78 people.

The rebuilt dam failed in 1942, and with it, the milling industry and many citizens left town.

Arcana Lodge currently has 62 members; however, “a lot are older and some are in Florida,” Bro. Clarence Walker, W.M., said. “Most days, we barely have enough to open lodge – we’re lucky to have seven or eight people.” Bro. Walker is one of five “recycled” Past Masters, who take turns serving the post. Bro. Mark Jeffers, lodge secretary, estimates 40 percent of their members live outside of Pennsylvania, and the average age of the membership is around 60 years old.

Among the lodge’s contributions to the community are helping to build a sidewalk with lighting from the center of town to the schools, so children can walk safely back and forth. Members have also worked with Boy Scout troops and a sportsmen’s association to clean up a local stream.

A small lodge means the members know each other better, but with less income, maintenance of the lodge building is becoming more difficult.

The Austin post office currently rents the downstairs, which helps with the expenses.

“We try the best we can,” Bro. Walker

Lodge said. “We’d like to get more members. My dad was a Mason, and he got me in it. I like to work and not just sit and watch.”

With only 60 members, the brothers of Osceola Lodge No. 421, Elkland, all know each other, can accomplish things relatively quickly and are able to stay within their financial means, which can sometimes be difficult for larger organizations. On the opposite end, with few members to collect funds from and living in an economically depressed area, the impact they are able to make is modest.

The lodge, constituted July 22, 1868, had to sell its building last year, and now meets in the Cowanesque Lodge No. 351 building in Knoxville.

They, too, find it difficult to fill officer chairs, as well as have a pool of qualified men for ritualistic work. Conforming to edicts from Grand Lodge also becomes a challenge.

A change in the demographics of the area caused the membership to decrease gradually from more than 120 in the 1990s, according to Bro. Alex Hartley, lodge secretary. “Our new members are down to one or two a year, and we lose that many due to death or other reasons.”

William Penn Lodge No. 732, Philadelphia, which meets in the Masonic Temple, currently has 59 members. Constituted Dec. 16, 1924, the lodge has not had more than 100 members since 1975, as older members have passed away without new ones to replace them, according to Bro. Thomas Hopkins, D.D.G.M., District B. “When one or two of the regular attendees are absent for a meeting, it is extremely noticeable and difficult to assign others to their positions,” he said.

With a smaller membership, communication is easy when brothers want to make plans in the best interest of the lodge. Members remain in close contact with one another, especially those in the immediate area. Their future outlook remains optimistic.

“The Masonic Renaissance has allowed the lodge and its members to inform and invite friends and acquaintances to join our fraternity with ease. As a small lodge, it is important to be able to invite people into the fraternity and not have to wait for them to ask,” Bro. Hopkins said. “Any new member is brought into the ‘family,’ and made an immediate friend and brother. Most friendships made are life-long.”

James W. Brown Lodge No. 675, Johnsonburg, constantly sees 20 percent of its membership at meetings, which is above average for a Masonic lodge.

With only 55 members though, the most active of whom is 95 years old, it is difficult to find enough people to participate in community events and raise money. The lodge is able to collect money for the “Help for Our Heroes” program and participate in the local Home Days festival.

Constituted Nov. 10, 1913, the James W. Brown Lodge had about 70 members in the 1980s, but some have passed away or moved, and few new brothers have joined. They received one petition in 2009.

“There are big differences between big and small lodges,” Bro. Kenneth Launer, Jr., W.M., said.

“The Masonic Renaissance will do a lot more good than harm for us. Changes are needed to come into the 21st century.”

Roman Lodge No. 418, Rome, is Pennsylvania’s smallest lodge with 52 members, yet it has one of the biggest hearts. Constituted on June 27, 1868, the lodge had as many as 106 members in the early 1980s, but with deaths outweighing new members and brothers moving to Florida and Arizona, the membership has dwindled. What has not waned is the spirit of the brethren.

“Our lodge may be the smallest, but our friendship inside and outside is the greatest. A good percentage come out for meetings,” Bro. Kenneth Owlett, W.M., said. “We have 10 to 12 brothers every month. We really care for each other and love our little lodge.”

Whenever Bro. Owlett asks the membership to do something, a brother always obliges. The lodge actively gives to the community through donations to a local museum and fire company. They’ve held one open house in which 23 members and visitors attended, and are preparing to hold a second one.

The lodge has even been able to make recent improvements to their lodge building, which also houses the Rome Post Office, including new siding, doors, carpet and air conditioners.

“We like a lot of the Grand Master’s ideas, especially being able to have a printed copy of the ritual to study degree work,” he said. He feels the degree work can be challenging for older members and may prevent them from learning the degrees.

“The Masonic Renaissance is important because most of these lodges cannot afford to have air conditioning, so the relaxed dress code is appreciated,” Bro. Guilford Rowley, D.D.G.M., District 33, said.

“The printed ritual makes it easier for many of the members with hectic work schedules to learn the work. The selective invitation may help these lodges increase their membership.”

It only takes a small group of people to make a difference. If these smallest “bricks” of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania can continue to live up to and support the good name that is Freemasonry, and we can embrace the ideas of the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance, then it can only be imagined what they will achieve in the future with more members to contribute the “mortar” that will strengthen them – fresh ideas, helping hands, generous hearts and renewed vigor.

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Canawacta Lodge No. 360, Susquehanna

Roman Lodge No. 418, Rome

Wyalusing Lodge No. 618, Wyalusing

James W. Brown Lodge No. 675, Johnsonburg

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Making History

Brothers Malcolm Harris, District Lecturer, First District; Stephen Gardner, R.W.P.G.M., Grand Lodge of PA; George M. Calloway, M.W.P.G.M., P.H.A.; James Lloyd, Worshipful Master, Prudence Lodge No. 11; and Wayne O. Thompson, District Deputy Grand Master, District 1

On June 19, Prudence Lodge No. 11, P.H.A., held a special meeting to raise five candidates to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason in the Corinthian Hall of the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia. Bro. James Lloyd, Worshipful Master, conferred the degrees along with other officers in their respective stations. As the first meeting held by a Prince Hall lodge in the Masonic Temple, it was an historic event.

Most Worshipful Grand Master Charles A. Bishop, Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, as well as both

Congratulations to...

Stephen Gardner, R.W. Past Grand Master, and Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W. Grand Master, Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, granted permission for the meeting.

Grand Master Sturgeon and the other Grand Lodge officers originally planned on attending the meeting, but when it had to be rescheduled due to a conflict, they could not attend. Still, more than 140 Masons from both Grand Lodges witnessed the event.

They included from Prince Hall Grand Lodge: Most Worshipful Past Grand Master George M. Calloway,

and Brothers Wayne O. Tompkins, District Deputy Grand Master, and Malcolm Harris, Grand Lecturer for District 1. From The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, attendees included R.W. Past Grand Master Gardner and Brothers William Wettereau, P.D.D.G.M., and Daniel J. Hinds, Aide to the Grand Master and Superintendent of the Masonic Temple.

On behalf of Grand Master Sturgeon, Past Grand Master Gardner gave Masonic ties to all of those in attendance to mark this memorable occasion.

R.W. Past Grand Master Arthur J. Kurtz received his certificate for 60 years of service to Freemasonry on March 29, during the 140th Anniversary Banquet of Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, Harrisburg, of which Bro. Kurtz is also a Past Master. R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon presented Bro. Kurtz with his 60-Year Service Emblem and Wreath during a personal visit to his residence at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Shown congratulating Bro. Kurtz are (left to right): Michael P. McGinnis, W.M., Robert Burns Lodge No. 464; R.W.P.G.M. Kurtz; R.W. Deputy Grand Master Jay W. Smith, who delivered the keynote address and presented Bro. Kurtz with his 60-year certificate at the banquet; R.W. Grand Secretary Mark A. Haines; and R.W. Past Grand Master George H. Hohenshildt, William S. Snyder Lodge No. 756, Harrisburg.

These brethren of the 1st Masonic District have demonstrated a level of excellence in the performance of the Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft and Master Mason degrees and thereby have been awarded the Grand Lodge Proficiency Pin Award. They have achieved the requirements set forth by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and have worked with diligence to maintain this standard of precision.

Pictured left-right: Brothers Raymond P. Greiner, P.M., Principal Instructor, Ephrata Lodge No. 665; Charles A. Achey, Jr., P.D.D.G.M., P.M., Lodge No. 43, Lancaster; Larry A. Derr, D.D.G.M., P.M., Ashara–Casiphia Lodge No. 551, Mt. Joy; Jeff A. Feister, P.M., Christiana Lodge No. 417; Jeff S. Moyer, P.M., Lodge No. 43, Regional Instructor, Region 2; Dennis A. Weller, P.M., and William J. Oehme, P.M., both of Manheim Lodge No. 587; Thomas L. Feister, P.M., Christiana Lodge No. 417; Albert B. Kling, P.M., Lodge No. 43; Paul E. Sirbak, P.M., Lamberton Lodge No. 476, Lancaster; John F. Harley, P.M., Ephrata Lodge No. 665; Herb K. Swisher, P.M., Lodge No. 43, Past Principal; Thomas A. Shimp, P.M., Columbia Lodge No. 286, Wrightsville; Paul A. Sutcliffe, Jr., P.M., Worshipful Master, Lodge No. 43; Douglas M. Wiker, P.M., Lodge No. 43, Past Principal; and C. Ray Rathman, P.M., Christiana Lodge No. 417.

Bro. Paul M. Johnston, P.M., W.M., Mount Zion Lodge No. 774, McConnellsburg, was presented the 2009 Outstanding Citizen Award by the Fulton County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism at a banquet held in his honor. Bro. Johnston was recognized for his 25+ years of commitment to community service, including leadership positions with the McConnellsburg Jaycees, Fulton County Parks and Recreation Commission, Fulton County Little League, Bi-Valley Girls Softball League, Mount Zion Lodge No. 774, Great Cove Golf and Recreation Club, Central Fulton Education Foundation, Central Fulton School District Board of Directors, McConnellsburg Alumni and Friends Association and Fulton Industrial Development Association.

In accepting the award, Bro. Johnston remarked, “I do it because I enjoy doing it ... I learned early in life to help others. My dad is my biggest inspiration. Thank you, Dad, for leading the path.”

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December Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania 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 at 10:00 o’clock, a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2010, at the Masonic Temple, 1 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA.

By Order of the R.W. Grand Master.

Mark A. Haines - R.W. Grand Secretary

Masonic Motorcycle Club Chapter 38’s Road Trip Following the advice in the May 2010 issue of “The Pennsylvania Freemason,” six members of the Masonic Motorcycle Club Chapter 38 headed out to Route 6 from May 14-16. During the three-day trip, the brothers rode more than 500 miles and saw several lodges as well as many natural and historic sites.

District D Summer Open House Tacony Lodge No. 600, Philadelphia, held an open house and picnic at the Tacony Temple on June 15. This event brought members, their families and the community together for an evening of great food, entertainment, neighborly fellowship, a brief tour of the lodge room and an explanation of Freemasonry. The Northeast DeMolay Chapter was also on hand and made new friends and prospective members with young people from the community. A bouncy castle, water ice wagon and a spectacular parrot presentation entertained the youth.

As a result of the event, several guests expressed interest in joining the fraternity. Bro. David Tansey, D.D.G.M., met with them the following week to complete their petitions.

GRAND MASTER’S 2010 CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENTS October 11, 2010 Lu Lu Country Club North Hills, PA Benefits the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill & the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia Fee: $600 per foursome or $160 per golfer 10 a.m. Registration 10:30 a.m. Practice Range Opens 11 a.m. Lunch Noon Shotgun Start 12:30-4:30 Refreshments (on course) 5 p.m. Social Hour 6 p.m. Dinner & Awards To play or sponsor, contact: William J. Greet 2125 Parkdale Avenue Glenside, PA 19038-5321 Phone (215) 887-4015 Cell (215) 990-6497 E-mail wjgreet@verizon.net

September 28, 2010 Irem Country Club Dallas, PA Benefits Masonic Charities Fee: $115 per golfer 11 a.m. Lunch Noon Shotgun Start 4:30-5:30 p.m. Social Hour 5:30 p.m. Dinner & Awards To play or sponsor, contact: Grand Master’s Golf Tournament c/o Irem Country Club 397 Country Club Road Dallas, PA 18612 Phone (570) 675-4465 ext. 241

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The officers of James Cochran Lodge No. 614, along with R.W. Grand Master Sturgeon and newly raised Bro. Brandon N. Christner.

13th Annual Outdoor Meeting in the Hills On June 18, the 13th Annual Outdoor Meeting in the Hills was held at Christner’s Grove near Connellsville, Pa. On hand were 665 brethren from 85 lodges and from seven jurisdictions, including Canada.

The brethren enjoyed the sunshine and dinner consisting of a cooked-to-order N.Y. strip steak, accompanied by salad, baked potato and corn – all served to the brethren in less than 45 minutes!

James Cochran Lodge No. 614, Connellsville, presided over this special meeting. Bro. David M. Christner, P.M., Worshipful Master, by Special Dispensation opened the lodge at 7:30 p.m. Bro. Christner’s grandfather, Ellis H. (Alex) Christner was the owner of the property and passed away in 2007. After opening, the lodge received the Grand Lodge party and R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon announced that a

very special occasion was about to take place.

He then called on Bro. Jeffrey M. Wonderling, P.D.D.G.M., to confer the remaining portion of the Master Mason’s Degree upon Bro. Brandon Nicholas Christner.

After Bro. Brandon was raised, his brother, (the Worshipful Master) and his father, Bro. Matthew A. Christner, P.M., presented Brandon with his grandfather’s Masonic ring.

Grand Master Sturgeon then received contributions for the Masonic Villages from the officers of Philanthropy Lodge No. 225, Greensburg; Loyalhanna Lodge No. 275, Latrobe; King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346, Connellsville; Westmoreland Lodge No. 518, Greensburg; Marion Lodge No. 562, Connellsville; James Cochran Lodge No. 614, Connellsville; and Jeannette Lodge No. 750.

Bro. Rodney E. Boyce, District Deputy

Grand Master for District 30, thanked all of the brethren for attending and especially Grand Master Sturgeon for allowing this unique event.

Bro. Alan R. Sandusky, P.M., president of the C.D.S. Building Corporation, then made a special presentation to Bro. Timothy L. Shumar, P.M., district membership chairman, for his tireless efforts in raising funds for future improvements including an outdoor pavilion. Through Bro. Tim’s leadership, more than $25,000 was raised by the raffle of the Pennsylvania Masonic Kentucky Rifle, which concluded with a drawing for the winner on that night.

Grand Master Sturgeon then closed the meeting at 8:30 p.m. A wonderful evening of fellowship was topped off with hot apple dumplings and ice cream.

June 2010 Quarterly Communication A total of 323 brethren, representing 167 lodges and two visitors from other Jurisdictions, were present at the June Quarterly Communication on June 26 at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.

The following items of business were attended to: The merger of William Penn Lodge No. 732 with Harmony Lodge No. 52, both in Philadelphia, effective Aug. 31, 2010, to be known as William Penn Harmony Lodge No. 52, was approved.

Fraternal recognition was approved to be granted to the Grand Lodge of Moldova and the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Lithuania.

The Committee on Membership reported a net loss between Dec. 27, 2008, and Dec. 27, 2009, of 3,317 members. The membership as of Dec. 27, 2009, stood at 114,447 brethren in 432 lodges.

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Bro. Armando Stavole, a member of Collingswood-Cloud Lodge No. 101, working under the Jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of New Jersey, was elected an honorary member of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.

R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon took great pleasure in presenting the Grand Master’s Outstanding Service Award to Bro. Raymond E. Foose, Newtown Lodge No. 427, Grand Lodge Soloist.

A special tribute was made to the late Bro. John Goodman, Grand Lodge Organist, with Bro. Foose singing “Going Home,” by Antonin Dvorak.

Bro. Richard B. Elberfeld, TyrianCommonwealth Lodge No. 362, Erie, was appointed Grand Chaplain, effective

March 24, 2010.

Bro. Robert A. Goodman, Brownstone Lodge No. 666, Hershey, was presented with the Academy of Masonic Knowledge Master Masonic Scholar Jewel by Bro. Thomas W. Jackson, R.W. Past Grand Secretary.

Bro. David B. Smith, District Deputy Grand Master of the 20th Masonic District, presented a statue of recognition and appreciation to Bro. Stephen Gardner, R.W. Past Grand Master, on behalf of the 56th Stryker Brigade stationed in Altoona for the support provided during his term as Grand Master through the calling cards for those serving overseas.

Grand Master Sturgeon was pleased to receive contributions totaling $34,586.17 for the various Masonic Charities.

Freemason

Bro. Samuel L. Clemens a.k.a. Mark Twain

by Glenys Waldman, Librarian, The Masonic Library and Museum of PA One of the best-loved Americans, the iconic Bro. Samuel Langhorne Clemens, was born Nov. 30, 1835, in Florida, Mo. Four years later, the family moved to nearby Hannibal. His brother, Orion (1825-1897), who had worked in his father’s general store and was an apprentice at a local newspaper, soon moved to St. Louis, where he studied law under Edward Bates, who would later serve as President Abraham Lincoln’s Attorney General.

After their father’s death, when Samuel was 12, he was apprenticed to a printer. Orion returned to Hannibal and purchased the local newspaper, which he renamed “Hannibal Western Union.” Two years later, Samuel joined Orion’s newspaper and soon learned that he enjoyed writing. Unable to make a successful living as a journalist in Hannibal, Orion relocated to Iowa in 1853. Samuel moved to a printer’s job in St. Louis. While there, he became a river pilot’s apprentice, becoming a licensed pilot in 1858.

The river trade was brought to a standstill by the Civil War, so Samuel began working as a reporter for several newspapers. Following Abraham Lincoln’s election as President in 1860, Orion was appointed territorial secretary (but he would often function as acting Governor) of the Territory of Nevada. Samuel accompanied Orion to Nevada in the summer of 1861 as his secretary, but continued newspaper work. He was city editor of the Virginia City, Nev., “Enterprise” in 1862.

He even worked in mining. Soon, becoming noted as a humorist, Samuel began lecturing and writing books.

Samuel was a member of Polar Star Lodge No. 79, St. Louis, Mo. (Entered Apprentice, May 22, 1861; Fellow Craft, June 12, 1861; Master Mason, July 10, 1861). He is recorded as having visited Carson City Lodge (Nevada) in February and March of 1862.

Among Samuel’s many books are “The Innocents Abroad;” “Roughing It,” the story of that journey with his brother to Nevada; “Adventures of Tom Sawyer;” “The Prince and the Pauper;” “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn;” and “A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court.”

Samuel’s pseudonym, Mark Twain, comes from his days as a river pilot. It is a riverboat term meaning two fathoms, or 12 feet of water. The depth is determined with a “hand lead,” consisting

of a lead weight of seven to 14 pounds and a braided hemp or cotton rope, 25 fathoms long, and is used where the water is (presumed) less than 20 fathoms deep. The term “mark” refers to the marks on the rope, which are at 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 15, 17 and 20 fathoms. Thus the call, “Mark twain!” means “two fathoms,” which is (at least reasonably) safe for riverboat navigation.

Mark Twain had something to say about everyone and everything: “It is the will of God that we must have critics, and missionaries, and Congressmen, and humorists, and we must bear the burden.” On Brotherhood: “The universal brotherhood of man is our most precious possession – what there is of it.”

- Mark Twain’s “Notebook” On Friendship: “When we think of friends, and call their faces out of the shadows, and their voices out of the echoes that faint along the corridors of memory, and do it without knowing why, save that we love to do it; we content ourselves that friendship is a Reality, and not a Fancy – that it is builded upon a rock, and not upon the sands that dissolve away with the ebbing tides and carry their monuments with them.”

-Letter to Mary Mason Fairbanks “The proper office of a friend is to side with you when you are in the wrong. Nearly anybody will side with you when you are in the right.”

- “Notebook,” 1898 On Bro. Benjamin Franklin: “If it had not been for him, with his incendiary ‘Early to bed and early to rise,’ and all that sort of foolishness, I wouldn’t have been so harried and worried and raked out of bed at such unseemly hours when I was young. The late Franklin was well enough in his way; but it would have looked more dignified in him to have gone on making candles and letting other people get up when they wanted to.”

- Letter from Mark Twain, San Francisco “Alta California,” July 25, 1869 About himself: Mark Twain famously said, “I came in with Halley’s Comet in 1835. It is coming again next year [1910], and I expect to go out with it. It will be the greatest disappointment of my life if I don’t go out with Halley’s Comet. The Almighty has said, no doubt: ‘Now here are these two unaccountable freaks; they came in together, they must go out together.’” His prediction came

true when he passed away April 21, 1910, one day after Halley’s Comet was closest to Earth.

In applying for a passport on May 7, 1878, Mark Twain said: “My description is as follows: Born 1835; 5 ft. 8 1/2 inches tall; weight about 145 pounds ... dark brown hair and red moustache, full face with very high ears and light gray beautiful beaming eyes and a damned good moral character.”

- Letter to Bayard Taylor written May 7, 1878 (in German); reprinted and translated in “New Letters of Mark Twain,” American Literature, 3/1936, p. 48 Another great author said of him: “To my mind, Mark Twain was beyond question the largest man of his time, both in the direct outcome of his work and more important still, if possible, in his indirect influence as a protesting force in an age of iron philistinism.”

- [Brother] Rudyard Kipling, letter in the centennial year of Mark Twain’s birth [1935] At his death, Samuel had left strict instructions that his uncensored autobiography remain unpublished until 100 years after his death. That year – 2010 – has been reached!

The University of California Press will publish Twain’s autobiography as they put it, “in its entirety and exactly as he left it.” Volume I is to be released Nov. 15. It is hoped that the remaining two volumes will appear within five years (cf. the “Houston Chronicle” May 25, 2010, “NY Times” and Barnes & Noble, July 10, 2010).

Let Bro. Mark Twain himself close this sketch: “Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines.

Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

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The Simons Say: Enjoy the Simple Life Meet a Modern-Day Renaissance Couple

Bro. Ralph J. Simons, North Hills Lodge No. 716, Wexford, and his wife, Orpah, enjoy the simple things in life. Married for 66 years this month, the couple resides on a 130-acre farm near Butler, and spends the winters in Atlantis, Fla. Bro. Ralph developed a strong work ethic early in life. His family lost its home in Pittsburgh during the Depression, so he worked in the summers to save money for clothes. Shortly after his graduation from Etna High School, Bro. Ralph joined the U.S. Marine Corps. It was the day after the bombing of Pearl Harbor; a brave decision characteristic of a man not afraid to take risks and do what’s right.

When an injury ended his military career, he took a six-week algebra course in just two days so he could enroll in college. He earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Carnegie Mellon in two years and eight months.

Thankful for his free education provided under Public Law 16, he was determined to pay it back at some point in his life. In 2005, he and Orpah

made a substantial donation to Carnegie Mellon’s College of Engineering, created a scholarship fund for mechanical engineering students and provided additional funds to support ongoing research within the department.

Soon after graduating college, his entrepreneurial spirit kicked into full gear.

After working in the manufacturing industry and purchasing a company’s machine shop, Bro. Ralph invented, with a colleague, the first electric deodorizer. In 1948, he and his partners founded Associated Products in Glenshaw, Pa., which distributes commercial deodorizers for use in rest rooms under the Sani-Air product line. The tremendously successful enterprise continued to grow, eventually selling to distributors worldwide.

“We worked hard at it, making quality products that were better than anyone else’s,” Bro. Ralph said. “I always looked at what the product would do for the customer, not for me.

By helping customers, it helped me (succeed in business).”

Today, he is a sophisticated investor who still values honesty and happiness over money.

“It’s more important to find something you like and pursue it,” he said.

Bro. Ralph and Orpah are proud of their four accomplished children: Sally, Linda, Nancy and Jim. Sally is an attorney in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. A CPA by trade, Linda continues her father’s successful legacy as president of California Scents, residing in Newport Beach, Calif. Nancy is a dermatologist in Brandon, Fla., whom Bro. Ralph says inherited her mother’s devotion to “doing things for others.” A very successful professional golfer on the PGA tour, Jim passed away unexpectedly almost five years ago at age 55. His passion for golf obviously was inspired by his parents’ love of the game.

The Simons also have six grandchildren and a great-grandchild.

A 60-year member of the fraternity, Bro. Ralph received his landmark service emblem from R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon during this year’s Florida Masonic Reunions.

Influenced to join by his two business partners in a machine shop venture begun soon after completing college, Bro. Ralph said he liked the fraternity immediately.

“I believe in the causes they stand for,” he said of Freemasons, which is one reason why he and his wife have supported the Masonic Villages through several generous charitable gift annuities throughout the past eight years.

Perhaps the other reason is that Orpah, “a great mother, grandmother and homemaker,” according to Bro. Ralph, always thinks of others first, before herself. The library in the Masonic Village at Sewickley recently was dedicated in their honor.

A charitable gift annuity is a benevolent and smart way to support a charity. Charitable gifts of $5,000 and above provide permanent, guaranteed, fixed income at very appealing rates, often 4 - 6 percent higher than CDs, stock dividends or some other common investments.

It’s a rewarding type of gift in more ways than one. Gift annuities can offer a guaranteed lifetime income stream for one or two persons.

Even better, much of the income is tax-free.

Additional benefits include a substantial tax deduction and capital gains tax savings if an appreciated asset is used.

For information on giving to one of the Masonic Charities through a gift annuity, turn to the back page of this magazine.

Brother John Philip Sousa (1854 – 1932),

America’s beloved “March King” and Director of the U.S. Marine Band was a member of Hiram Lodge No. 10, Eureka Royal Arch Chapter No. 4, Columbia Knights Templar Commandery No. 2 and Almas Shrine Temple (all of Washington, D.C.). Of his 136 marches – some Masonic – one is “Nobles of the Mystic Shrine.” Sousa also made arrangements of all kinds of music. He wrote novels, articles, letters to the editor, and a still-valuable handbook including more original compositions titled, “The Trumpet and the Drum” (1886).

Brother John Philip Sousa now joins Byers’ Choice Caroler Figures Brother Benjamin Franklin ($70) and Brother George Washington ($75) available exclusively from the Museum Shop of the Masonic Library & Museum of PA. One can almost hear the swell of band music emanating from him! His cost is $75 plus tax and shipping. Contact Carole Alfe at the shop to order yours today: (800) 336-7317. Also available on our Web site: www.masonicmuseumgifts.com Exclusive limited edition.

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Discover the Masonic Villages Masonic Village At Dallas (866) 851-4243

New options and incentives available, up to an $8,000 value Experience the quality and services our community offers. Limited rental apartments and villas are still available!

• Spectacular Back Mountain Villas • Flexible payment options • New clubhouse with dining room, pub and recreational activities • Priority access to our health care partner, “Mercy Center” Aug. 31: A Special Event: Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments at 5:30 p.m. at the Irem Country Club, followed by a brief presentation at 6 p.m.

Masonic Village At Lafayette Hill (610) 828-5760

• Elegantly remodeled community • Unprecedented financial security • 30 minutes from downtown Philadelphia • Social and recreational opportunities abound • Access to on-site health care services if needed Sept. 15: Comedy Night: begins at 6 p.m. with tours and refreshments.

Show begins at 7 p.m. in the auditorium.

Oct. 13: O pen House: 10 a.m. presentation in the auditorium followed by tours and a complementary lunch Nov. 19: O pen House: 10 a.m. presentation in the auditorium followed by tours and a complementary lunch Dec. 16: Open House: drop in any time from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the auditorium

Masonic Village At Elizabethtown (800) 676-6452 Discover our exciting new financial incentives, for a limited time only!

Come help us celebrate the Masonic Village’s 100th anniversary, and experience the beauty, quality and friendly atmosphere that have been our trademarks for a century.

• Apartments available immediately • Social and recreational activities and amenities abound • Assurance that health care services are available if needed • Unprecedented financial security Sept. 25: Autumn Day: multiple apartment and cottage tours available Nov. 11: Open House: drop in the Keystone Room of the Clubhouse any time between 1-3:30 p.m.

Masonic Village At Sewickley (800) 872-0664

Learn how this Lifecare community protects your assets after retirement and discover the many benefits of retirement living at the Masonic Village at Sewickley. Whether it be maintenance-free living, the opportunity to form lifelong friendships or a variety of activities in which to participate, the Masonic Village has it all. Life at Masonic Village is dynamic, convenient and secures your nest egg.

August 24: Open House and Ice Cream Social: Drop in from 4-7 p.m. at the Masonic Village Clubhouse Sept. 30: Open House: 10 a.m. at the Masonic Village Clubhouse

FALL SEMINAR SERIES:

Oct. 28: Lifecare Seminar Nov. 4: Fraud & Scams: Spotlighting tactics that target seniors Nov. 11: Elder Law: Is your legal/financial house in order?

Nov. 18: Downsizing Strategy: Is your house holding you hostage?

An Active 60 Plus Community

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A Commitment to Conservation The site of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown was selected more than 100 years ago in part because of the natural resources the land offered. In its 100th year of providing services, Masonic Village continues to use and preserve these resources while also finding new ways to reduce its environmental footprint, adding to the comfort and support of its residents and the community.

At the annual Pennsylvania Cattlemen’s Association banquet in March, Masonic Village at Elizabethtown was recognized with an Environmental Stewardship Award for its conservation practices and its commitment to protecting soil and water resources while operating a viable beef cattle and farm enterprise.

Efforts include converting more than 200 acres of cropland into grazing land, which in turn saves on the loss of top soil. Top soil erosion contributes sediments, chemicals and nutrients to water sources. Farm staff also built grass buffers between the fields and local streams to prevent erosion, and fenced off portions of the streams to keep cattle from accessing them.

On April 16, the Masonic Village hosted a one-day Nutrient Trading in Pennsylvania Conference, titled “Positively Impacting the Chesapeake Bay,” sponsored by the PA Association of Conservation Districts and the departments of Agriculture and Environmental Protection.

That same month, it was announced that Elizabethtown Solar Electric Partners LLC will receive a $1 million solar energy program grant from the state to install a ground-mounted solar photovoltaic system on a five-acre plot on the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown campus. The solar plant is expected to be operating by yearend, producing approximately 1,200,000 kWh of electricity annually and saving Masonic Village between $40,000 and $60,000 per year.

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Microturbines are presently used to generate 5-8 percent of the electricity for the village, and the heat created as a by-product is used to heat water for Village Green resident apartments and the Masonic Health Care Center, reducing the use of gas boilers. Installed in 2002 and upgraded in 2007, the turbines reduce emissions by as much as planting 1,000 acres of forest per year.

A sixth microturbine will be installed in 2010.

Since 2008, Masonic Village, in conjunction with several local organizations, has been restoring a portion of the Conoy Creek located along its property with the assistance of a Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Growing Greener II grant and funding from Masonic Village. Centuries of nutrient-laden sediments were removed and 3,200 feet of the creek’s floodplain was restored. An open house and educational event, which included stream walks, fly fishing and water testing demonstrations, activities for children, and representatives from Lancaster County Conservation District and the Conoy Creek Watershed Association, was held May 22 to educate the community about how the project has contributed to improved local water resources, re-established six acres of wetlands and enhanced wildlife habitats.

At the Masonic Village at Sewickley, Duquesne Light Company made an initial contribution of $15,000 to the Masonic Village as part of its Act 129 requirements to assist with the installation of LED streetlights and other energy conservation retrofits. Leadership in Sewickley also has been working with the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown and representatives from Duquesne Light and Trane to identify and implement “green” initiatives which improve the energy efficiency of the community.

The Masonic Villages of Pennsylvania make great efforts to use environmentally-friendly

Visitors tour the creek during the April 16 conference. materials and methods at all campuses, including water and electricity-saving fixtures, co-generating electricity, motion detector-controlled lights and the purchase of hybrid vehicles for company use.

New technologies, such as solar light tubes and LED replacements for T-8 bulbs, are constantly being evaluated.

As it embarks on its second century of service, Masonic Villages is ensuring others in the future will be able to benefit from its loving care because of conservation and preservation efforts of yesterday, today and tomorrow.

Masonic Vill ages

Left-right: Cynthia Balmer; R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon; Ryan Oatman, Jr.; and Virginia Migrala, Director, Children’s Services, plant a tree to memorialize the life the graduating seniors added to the children’s home and their lasting ties to the Masonic Village.

Celebrating Our Youth!

The 87th Annual Youth Appreciation Day, held May 28, celebrated the scholastic and extracurricular achievements of the 36 residents at the Masonic Children’s Home, honored donors for their support and showed appreciation for staff and family members who help the youth succeed daily. Certificates, awards and medals were handed out recognizing youth for everything from perfect school attendance to service in the community to having a great sense of humor.

Participating in the annual tree planting ceremony along with this year’s graduating seniors, Cynthia Balmer and Ryan Oatman, Jr., were R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon and Virginia Migrala, Director, Children’s Services.

Cynthia came to the children’s home in March 1998 from Middletown and is sponsored

by West Shore Lodge No. 681, Camp Hill. She was 6 years old when she arrived with her three sisters, Dana, Danielle and Melissa. In school, she received numerous medals, trophies and varsity awards for cheerleading competitions and worked with second graders in language arts, math, social studies and science. Cynthia will work toward a bachelor’s degree in health

sciences or elementary education at Shippensburg University, where she has been selected as a member of the university’s cheerleading squad.

Ryan Oatman, Jr., came to the children’s home in October 2009 from Elizabethtown, and is sponsored by Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown. He has turned hardships into an enduring pursuit of knowledge by taking advanced placement courses and being a positive role model at the Weller Cottage.

He will work toward an associate degree in humanities, languages and arts education at Harrisburg Area Community College and will then transfer to Penn State University to study philosophy and education.

Both Cynthia and Ryan graduated from Elizabethtown Area High School on June 10 and are extremely appreciative of every opportunity the Masonic Village and Freemasonry have been able to provide for them.

As he addressed the graduating seniors and the audience, Grand Master Sturgeon said, “I continue to be amazed at how so many young people can benefit from this wonderful fraternity. People in Pennsylvania have come to

recognize, more than ever before, that there is more to Freemasonry than meetings and ritual as they have come to witness the true goodness of our charitable efforts. These young people are smarter, more polite, have stronger social skills, an appreciation for patriotism and are overall better prepared for life because of the home and the care they have been given. It makes me proud to be a Pennsylvania Freemason.”

We wish Cynthia and Ryan the best of luck with their future endeavors, and congratulate all the youth at the Masonic Children’s Home for another successful year of hard work in school and within the community.

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Masonic Village at Sewickley Projects Provide More Privacy & Care Services Masonic Village Breaks Ground for Renovations to Nursing Care Residence To kick off a $22 million renovation project, on June 16, a ground breaking ceremony was held at the Masonic Village at Sewickley’s nursing care residence, the Valley Care Masonic Center.

The current 43,000 square foot residence, which includes 128 suites, will be renovated, and a 64,000 square foot addition will be constructed.

The residents’ new home will be laid out in eight 16-bed units, called “neighborhoods.” It will include 88 private rooms and 20 shared private suites with showers in each bathroom.

Each neighborhood will have its own dining area and activity room. The Staunton Support Wing, a special care area specifically designed to serve residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias, will increase from 20 beds to two 16-bed neighborhoods.

“We are transforming the nursing home from a hospital model to a neighborhood model which will create much more of a home environment for our residents,” Eric Gross, executive director, said. “Residents will all enjoy much improved privacy in their rooms, larger community living areas, and they will be part of neighborhoods that feel more like families.”

Preliminary plans for land development have been approved. Final design plans went to the 24

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Aleppo Township commissioners for approval on June 21. Work on parking areas began June 28, and construction on the new building will begin in September. The project is expected to take two years to complete.

Home Care Services Expand to Sewickley Masonic Village at Sewickley began offering Home Care Services for residents in May. The home care program in Elizabethtown began over a year ago and produced successful results, so staff began assessing the need for home care services in Sewickley.

Home care services are tailored to an individual’s unique needs to allow him or her to remain as active as possible, for as long as possible.

Masonic Village Home Care staff can provide a helping hand to assist a resident with numerous chores such as grocery shopping, laundry or car maintenance, or can provide daily help with bathing, meal preparation, transportation or even around-the-clock companion care.

Other services include: -Taking care of pets, plants, mail, etc., while away -Preparing for company/hosting a party -Cleaning out closets, basement, garage -Respite services Previously, when residents needed assistance

with certain activities, the only options were to move to another level of care or to hire an outside agency to come on campus and provide these types of services. Outside agencies typically require a four-hour minimum to come on campus, but now residents are able to receive this care in one- or two-hour increments from Masonic Village staff they have come to know and trust.

For additional information on Home Care Services offered through quality, compassionate Masonic Village staff, call (412) 741-1400, ext.

3096, or visit www.masonicvillagespa.org

Masonic Vill ages

Haiti Relief Fund Just before 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 12, a 7.0-magnitude earthquake shook Léogâne, Haiti, a city located 16 miles west of the country’s capital, Port-au-Prince. An estimated 230,000 people were killed, 300,000 were injured and 1,000,000 found themselves homeless.

For 10 employees of the Masonic Villages, living 1,500 miles away in Warminster and Lafayette Hill, Pa., the quake hit very close to home. Immigrants from Haiti, the employees have struggled to communicate with family and friends while trying to help in any way they can.

One employee (all names have been withheld to protect the privacy of the staff) described the helplessness she felt as she called and called, but could not reach her family living in Haiti. She finally contacted them and discovered most of her family was alive and safe, although her niece broke several ribs when her school collapsed on her. Many of her relatives’ houses had collapsed and several families sought shelter at her mother’s house. She later learned of countless friends and acquaintances who did not survive the earthquake.

Another employee shared that her niece, who has seven children, has not been heard from, and no one knows what happened to the children. “We just don’t know,” she said. “Sometimes it’s hard to get information.”

“I have to work to see money gets to [my family],” one employee shared. “I have three family members who lost their homes. My children and I held a garage sale to raise money for them. We sold half our clothes and dishes.”

The staff members said they had been sending money, food, clothing and shoes to their relatives

in Haiti long before the quake hit, although now they do so more often. According to the United Nations “Human Development Report” (2000), the gross domestic product (GDP) per capita is $300 in Haiti in comparison to the United States, where it is $29,683. An estimated 80 percent of Haitians live in absolute poverty.

With tears in her eyes, one employee, despite her family’s situation, thanked God for the opportunities she has been given in the United States and for being able to help her family and others in any way. “I send them what I can,” she said. “But I do not have enough money to help the whole country. I cannot just go and see my family because other people need help. It’s difficult to turn your back on those people.”

Another described receiving daily phone calls from relatives who need money. Every little bit helps, as even $20 may feed a family for a week.

To assist these employees’ families, in appreciation for their hard work and dedication to caring for the residents of the Masonic Villages at Lafayette Hill and Warminster, the Congregation of Sell Chapel at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown raised funds through its outreach ministry and donated three months of offerings. Masonic Village residents and employees, and individuals

from as far away as Arizona, contributed to the relief fund. Distributed evenly among the 10 employees, a total of $16,050 was sent through a contact (whom all the employees had previously used to send money) in the Philadelphia area to Haiti on April 30. Confirmation that the money was received came through from several of the employees’ families.

As they all cope with the aftermath of the earthquake, the Masonic Villages staff remain committed to their work as nursing assistants.

One stated she likes to be at work because when she’s at home, she cries. Another expressed how her co-workers and the residents are like family to her, and she looks forward to coming to work.

Through strong faith and devotion to work and family, these 10 employees will see that any help they receive goes a long way.

“We are more than happy for your help,” one employee said. “God bless you!”

“We really appreciate the support,” another said. “Whatever you give, God gives back.”

West African Brother Visits Masonic Village

Left-right: Bros. Russell Baker; Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W. Grand Master; Moise Fiadjoe; and Joseph E. Murphy, CEO for the Masonic Villages

Hosted by Bro. Russell Baker, Howell Lodge No. 405, Honey Brook, Dr. and Bro. Moise Fiadjoe, a Sovereign Grand Commander from the West African country of Togo, recently toured the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, where Bro. Baker resides. The two met at the 49th Conference of the Supreme Council of Europe in Athens, Greece, last year, and Bro. Fiadjoe expressed an interest in seeing and learning how a nursing home operates in the United States. His vision is to one day open one in Togo.

“He kept referring to our various dining rooms as 5-star restaurants,” Bro. Baker said. “He was speechless about our facilities. I assured him it didn’t happen overnight.”

Bro. Baker gave Bro. Fiadjoe a copy of the “Masonic Village: 100th Anniversary” history book. Bro. William C. Davis, Jr., Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, chief operating officer – health care services, also provided Bro. Fiadjoe with procedural manuals regarding nursing care in Pennsylvania and the United States.

August 2010 25

Masonic Vill ages

Celebrating a Century of Service Throughout the last 100 years, the dedication of many hands and hearts have formed the Masonic Village as the “highest development of our fraternity and philanthropy” (Annual Report of the Committee on Masonic Homes, 1909), creating an enduring Mission of Love. In honor of a Century of Service, Masonic Village hosted several special events throughout the months of May and June leading up to the official 100th anniversary on June 25.

On May 25, 1910, more than 1,500 people gathered for Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s flag raising ceremony – the organization’s first public event. Exactly 100 years later, Masonic Village residents and staff, and Elizabethtown community members gathered in the Veterans Grove at 7 p.m. on May 25, 2010, for a flag raising ceremony to celebrate the Masonic Village’s history and anticipate its second century of service. For those unable to attend the evening event, earlier in the day, a flag which flew above our nation’s Capitol in Washington, D.C., and was donated by Congressman Joseph R. Pitts at the request of resident Providence Eshelman, was raised in front of residents and staff in the Masonic Health Care Center’s Roosevelt Courtyard.

26

Pennsylvania Freemason

After the Masonic Village Men’s Chorus performed, Elizabethtown Mayor and Bro. Chuck Mummert sang the national anthem and proclaimed May 25, 2010, as Masonic Village Day in Elizabethtown, Pa. To represent the countless people who have helped to ensure the Masonic Village’s future, a multitude of staff, residents and community members helped raise the flag. The evening ceremony featured a flag which flew over the State Capitol on May 6, 2010, and was donated by Bro. David Hickernell, State Representative for the 98th Legislative District.

As part of the dedication, Bro. Jeffrey W. Coy, R.W. Grand Treasurer and Chairman of the Committee on Masonic Homes, shared the following: “Pennsylvania Masons built the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown to counter the oppression of poverty, sickness, age and abuse that threaten the welfare and quality of life all people − young and old − need and deserve. That steadfast commitment has endured for 100 years, and today, leads us to be a Center of Excellence, motivates us to focus on the individual and drives us to provide the highest quality care and services ... Through the charity of Freemasons and friends who share our values, may our fellowship prompt us to celebrate the great

heritage and posterity that has been handed down to us by the founders and builders of this great country.”

The weekend of June 25-27 featured festive celebrations for all members of the Masonic family. On Friday, June 25, at 2 p.m., professional opera singer and Elizabethtown native Amy Yovanovich performed a special concert in the Masonic Health Care Center. At 6 p.m., residents, employees and their families gathered in the Formal Gardens for refreshments, some “clowning around” with Zembo Clowns and

Masonic Vill ages

a concert by the U.S. Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus. The community was invited to enjoy a magnificent fireworks display later that evening. Residents from the retirement living area of campus hosted the activities in appreciation for staff and their families, and their daily efforts to care for residents and the village. With funds from the voluntary resident association dues and proceeds from the sale of Masonic Village hats and shirts, residents raised $10,000 for the employee appreciation fund over the past three to four years.

“We appreciate how staff go out of their way to make our lives here so good. It’s a small way for us to give something extra,” Bro. Wils Kile, Fritz Lodge No. 308, Conshohocken, president of the Retirement Living Resident Association, said.

On Saturday, June 26, the June Quarterly Communication was held in the campus’ Deike Auditorium. Later that afternoon, the Grand Lodge Hall, built from 1911 to 1913, was rededicated in memory of Charles Scott Roberts, son of Joanne M. and Bro. David G. Roberts, Chester Lodge No. 236. The following is an excerpt from the dedication address by Bro. Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W. Grand Master: “The Grand Lodge Hall is more than stone, an office or even a home. It is a symbol of Pennsylvania Freemasonry’s wildest dreams, lofty goals and hopes for the future. Today, we recognize that where we’ve come from is just as important as where we’re heading. As the Committee on Masonic Homes reported in 1985: ‘We continue to marvel at the wisdom and foresight of those Pennsylvania Masons who stood on their lands in the early 1900s and planned our Masonic Homes essentially as it exists today. We are ever mindful of their

Masonic legacy to us and are guided in all that we do to care and nurture this sacred trust that it may long endure for Pennsylvania Masons and their families.’”

Also on Saturday, at 7 p.m., a Centennial Banquet was held for residents, staff, donors, Committee on Masonic Homes leadership, members of Masonic organizations from across the state, and friends and family to celebrate the milestone. The Central Pennsylvania Symphony played throughout dinner. Bro. Norm Crosby, Ionic Composite Lodge No. 520, Los Angeles, Calif., one of America’s favorite funny men, ended the night with a comedic twist.

The following is an excerpt from remarks made at the event by R.W. Grand Master Sturgeon: “Yesterday marked the centennial for our Masonic Village here in Elizabethtown, commemorating exactly 100 years since the first resident, Bro. William M. Geesaman, age 62, of Cumberland Valley Lodge No. 315, Shippensburg, moved into the Guest Home.

“In 1912, the Committee on Masonic Homes proudly stated: ‘Our work is permanent, and we must lay its foundations deep enough and broad enough for all time. Our ideals are high and it is incumbent upon us to build up to them.’ This is exactly what our forefathers, the visionaries who dreamed, planned and built this community with their hands and their hearts, not only hoped, but expected, of those of us who celebrate here today.

“Over the past century and here among us today, are members of our Masonic family who have served our nation proudly and preserved our freedom so that great institutions such as this one, could be built to reach out and serve our brothers and sisters who

have a need.

“For it is only in free countries such as our blessed United States of America, that Freemasonry can exist. And it is only through Freemasonry that our Masonic Villages have grown, like the grand old trees in the grove representing our nation’s heroes, to do God’s work in this place, which has often been called ‘the closest thing to heaven on earth.’”

A commemorative worship service held June 27 brought together many members and friends of the Masonic Village family. The past 100 years were remembered while reflecting on the next century. “Lord, as we celebrate this 100th anniversary, may you continue your blessings upon this place, these people, our community and the charity that has helped sustain this, our Masonic Village,” Rev. and Bro. A. Preston Van Deursen, Casiphia Lodge No. 551, Mount Joy, Grand Chaplain and Director of Pastoral Care for the Masonic Village, said during the service.

On July 9, a special centenarian birthday celebration was held for eight residents of Masonic Village at Elizabethtown who are age 100 or older. The residents and their friends and family enjoyed music and cake while sharing personal reflections and Masonic Village memories.

Many hands and much heart went into the planning of these centennial celebrations, and special thanks go to all who made them possible. Based on Freemasonry’s values of brotherly love, charity and truth, the Masonic Villages’ second Century of Service holds limitless opportunities for hundreds, and even thousands, of people to grow, receive care and be loved and inspired, giving the Masonic family many more reasons to celebrate.

August 2010 27

Masonic Vill ages

MASONIC VILLAGES’

2010

WISH LIST ITEMS Since the last published wish list, many generous individuals, lodges and chapters have donated funds to: replace resident bed spreads and purchase a new piano dolly at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill; renovate the Activity Room and Assembly Room at Masonic Village at Sewickley; purchase APM2 mattresses, a full lift and a sit and stand lift for residents in the Masonic Health Care Center at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown; and replace mattresses, provide music lessons and purchase instruments for the children at the Masonic Children’s Home.

A lay minister, Bro. Charles Yingling, Woodbury Lodge No. 539, Roaring Spring, and his wife, Mona, were inspired to donate funds for the purchase of two advent banners, Christmas banners, Christ candles and candle sets to help the residents of the Masonic Village at Sewickley celebrate the holidays in a meaningful way. “It has always been our nature to donate,” Bro. Yingling said.

“A lot of charities are hard pressed for funds and money is getting tighter for everyone. The Masonic Charities are one of several on our list of charities we support.” He and Mona also have set up a charitable remainder trust to benefit the Masonic Villages even after they pass away.

Members of Williamson-Corinthian Lodge No. 368, Philadelphia, wanted to make sure their neighbors at the Masonic Village at Warminster had everything they needed to live comfortable and fulfilling lives. After seeing the Masonic Villages’ Wish List in an issue of “The Pennsylvania Freemason,” Bro. Thomas Burgess, P.M., said. “We felt these items were necessities for the facility.

Our lodge has been lucky. We have good people who have made good investments and we like to turn around and see what we can do for those around us.”

THANK YOU to everyone! If you can help...

OFFICE OF GIFT PLANNING (800) 599-6454 28

Pennsylvania Freemason

Qty. Capital Need Masonic Children’s Home 20 Mattresses 5 File Cabinets 12 Kitchen Counter Bar Stools 5 Porch Gliders 5 Picnic Tables 2 Treadmills 5 Medicine Cabinets 2 Carpet for Enclosed Porch Carpet for Offices 20 Dining Room Chairs Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill 6 Recliners 2 Insulated camcart 1 Lobby Facelift (furniture, lamps, drapery, etc.)

Theatrical Therapy for residents (12-week class) Plants/Planters 1 It’s Never Too Late - computer systems that empower individuals to connect, engage & enjoy life 1 Mechanical lift 1 Portable digital wheelchair scale 64 Bed spreads 1 Van with lift Masonic Village at Warminster 5 Fall Mats 20 Lounge Chairs 20 Over Bed Tables Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Renovations to the Bleiler Caring Cottage 1 10 to 15 passenger van CLINICAL NEEDS 87 APM2 Mattresses 80 x 35 - Prevents skin breakdown 3 Bariatric Bed & equipment - Used for larger residents 9 Lifts (full) - incl. est. shipping 9 Lifts (sit to stand) -incl. est. shipping 5 Low Electric Beds 1 Nurse Call Bell System - wireless 1 Security System 5 Wheelchairs - Broda - Comfort seating at end of life 15 Wheelchairs - Specialty 10 Whirlpools (Tubs) Wireless Internal Access QUALITY OF LIFE NEEDS 49 Ceiling Panels (ocean, sky, etc.)

- For residents who are bed bound 3 Furniture for Resident Balconies 10 Horticulture Gardens Raised - Depending on the size and materials used 1 It’s Never too Late - computer systems that empower individuals to connect, engage & enjoy life 2 Keyboards - Digital

Cost per Item Total Cost $200 $200 $100 $300 $300 $1,000 $500 $1,415 $100 $676 $675 $28,000

$4,000 $1,000 $1,200 $1,500 $1,500 $2,000 $2,500 $2,830 $6,412 $2,000

$24,000

$4,056 $1,350 $28,000 $3,000 $3,375 $24,000

$5,300 $2,000 $80 $45,000

$5,300 $2,000 $5,120 $45,000

$155 $150 $265

$775 $3,000 $5,300

$5,100 $34,607

$5,100 $34,607

$1,200 $5,000 $3,700 $3,800 $5,000 $100,000 $100,000 $2,100 $1,000 $20,000 $20,000

$104,400 $15,000 $33,300 $34,200 $25,000 $100,000 $100,000 $10,500 $15,000 $200,000 $20,000

$215

$10,535

$1,000 $500-$1,000

$3,000 $500-$1,000

$24,000

$24,000

$2,500

$5,000

Masonic Vill ages

September 25 10”x13” $40 plus tax & shipping

Own a Piece of Masonic Village History!

In celebration of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s 100th anniversary, discover how great Masons established the Masonic Village, overcame worldwide obstacles and now remain steadfast in serving the community - all in the tradition of Freemasonry.

This 212-page, coffee-table style book with hundreds of photographs and stories about people whose lives were impacted by the Masonic Village will remind you why you are proud to be a Mason.

Available at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Gift Shops, the Masonic Village Farm Market, online at www.mvfarmmarket.com and by calling (717) 361-4520.

Join members and friends in celebrating Masonic Village’s Autumn Day on Saturday, Sept. 25, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The event, held at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, will feature entertainment, information, delicious food served from 11 a.m.2 p.m., farm market stands, children's games, lots of Masonic family organization booths and much more.

Autumn Day provides the perfect opportunity to visit with family members, reunite with friends and tour parts of the 1,400acre campus. The Masonic Village is unable to provide wheelchairs, so please bring your own, if needed. Handicap parking is available; however, you must advise the Masonic Village on the coupon below if handicap parking is needed, so a special parking pass can be forwarded to you in advance.

The Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank will be holding a blood drive to benefit Masonic Village residents on Autumn Day. Donations will be taken at the blood bank stand from 9 a.m.3:15 p.m. Anyone 17 years of age or older, who is in good health and weighs at least 100 lbs., is eligible to donate blood. It is requested that anyone interested in donating blood make an appointment by calling (800) 771-0059 between 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday. Please do not call the Masonic Village for these appointments.

For Handicap and Bus Parking Only

Friend us on Facebook to be notified the day new crops come in!

Name_____________________________________________________ Lodge No.________________________________________________ No. of Adults______________ No. of Children_______________ Address__________________________________________________ City________________________State_______Zip_______________  Need Handicap Parking*  Charter Bus

Complete and return to: Autumn Day, Masonic Village One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022 *Enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope with this coupon.

A special parking permit will be sent to you, which must be presented upon arrival.

Remember to Order Your Gifts for the Holidays!

MasonicVillage Fresh Local Produce

FARM MARKET

Hours: Mon. - Sat., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown (Located on the grounds of the Masonic Village) Phone: (717) 361-4520 • www.MVfarmmarket.com

Purchase Your Copy of the

Masonic Village History Book

at Autumn Day! August 2010 29

P e n n s y lv a n i a M a s o n i c Yo u t h F o u n d a t i o n Helen Snedden, Supreme Deputy, Rainbow for Girls, was honored with the John Wanamaker Masonic Humanitarian Medal by R.W. Grand Master Sturgeonon June 26 at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s Centennial Banquet.

Mrs. Snedden, the eighth recipient of this honor since its inception in 1993, was recognized for her continued support of the ideals and philosophy of the Masonic fraternity.

Educational Endowment Fund The Educational Endowment Fund Committee of the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation recently selected 25 students to receive $33,500 in scholarship awards. The annual program runs from Oct.-March 15, when applications may be submitted. There were 205 applications this year, representing students from 49 counties in the Commonwealth.

Recipients were: $1,000 Lawrence Dietrich Smith Memorial Scholarships - Michael C. Ferraro, Emily Horvath, Katherine A. Wells $2,000 Harry M. Ormston Scholarship - Jennifer Jean Bush $750 Harry M. Ormston Scholarship - Kaitlyn Knopp, Jessica Mills $2,000 Raymond A. Krome Scholarship - Heidi Greiner, Marie Lynn Shiptoski, Emily Elizabeth Smith, Carrie C. Spicer, Ross Stock,

Christopher M. Taylor, Rachel Sabrina Wells $1,000 Raymond A. Krome Scholarship - Christopher Gary Hartman, Brandon Lobb, Carrie L. Shafer, Sara Swentko, Jill Marie Weiskopf, Megan Nicole Frazer, Gabrielle Victoria Kalus, Erin Nicole Kile $250 Loretta N. Scheirer Nursing Scholarship - Christopher M. Taylor $1,000 Charles & Phyllis Schaeffer Scholarship - Michael L. Brown $250 Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682 Scholarship - Carrie C. Spicer $1,000 Barbara R. Carson O.E.S. Scholarship - Jennifer Walters, Alyssa Brooke Crile $500 Barbara R. Carson O.E.S. Scholarship - Megan D. Runser $500 Job’s Daughters Stillman Leadership Scholarship - Mary Elizabeth Noble

In addition, the Committee awarded five Pennsylvania Masonic Acacia Fraternity Scholarships totaling $6,500 on behalf of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania: $2,000 Acacia Fraternity Scholarship - Matthew Regis Nebel, Robert A. Zazac, III $1,000 Acacia Fraternity Scholarship - Matthew T. Gardner, Benjamin E. Kittka $500 Acacia Fraternity Scholarship - Edward J. Taylor, Jr. There were many deserving students who applied, but the awards are limited to the income from the Educational Endowment Fund, which only grows through YOUR contributions. The Masonic Scholarship Resource Guide for the 2011 program and the 2011 application will be available Oct. 1.

The application and the scholarship summaries are always current and available on the Internet at http://www.pmyf.org.

HODEGOS Honorees for 2010 The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania is pleased to announce and congratulate the HODEGOS Class of 2010: Bro. J. Michael Larkin of Pilgrim Chapter, Harrisburg, and Mrs. Debra J. Vanek from Elizabethtown Chapter, Order of DeMolay; Ms. Teresa Kuhns of Bethel No. 7, Columbia, and Bro. Thomas R. Kepler from Bethel No. 1, York, of the Order of Job’s Daughters; and Mrs. Kathryn A. Geary of Sunshine Assembly No. 41, Tunkhannock, and Mrs. P. J. O’Neill,

30

Pennsylvania Freemason

of Pitcairn Assembly, from the Order of the Rainbow for Girls.

The HODEGOS Award, established in 2005 by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania to recognize the outstanding efforts of volunteers for the Masonic youth groups in Pennsylvania, is given to truly outstanding adult leaders of the youth programs. The award takes its name from the Greek word hodegos, meaning “a leader, a guide and an instructor of the inexperienced,”

and is administered by the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation.

The HODEGOS Award is given to volunteers who have a minimum of seven years of service to a DeMolay Chapter, a Job’s Daughters Bethel or a Rainbow Girl Assembly in Pennsylvania. The award consists of a solid gold, hand-crafted oval bearing the word HODEGOS, written in Greek.

The emblem may be worn as a lapel pin, or crafted into a necklace drop for ladies.

P e n n s y lv a n i a M a s o n i c Yo u t h F o u n d a t i o n

Job’s Daughters Scholarship Pageant

On April 10, the 40th Annual Miss Job’s Daughters Scholarship Pageant was held in the Brossman Ballroom of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. The Pennsylvania Job’s Daughters were honored to have Ronald A. Aungst, Sr., R.W. Past Grand Master, serve as the emcee for

this event and several District Deputy Grand Masters serve as escorts for the contestants.

This year, 18 contestants from across the state competed for the title of Miss Job’s Daughter of Pennsylvania. Miss Cecile Madonna from Bethel #15, Elizabethtown, was crowned Miss Job’s Daughter and Miss Leah Riedel from Bethel #14, Quarryville, was selected as Miss Congeniality.

This event also serves as a way to raise money for the Grand Guardian Council Scholarship Fund. This year, the pageant set a record by raising more than $18,000 for scholarships through donations to the scholarship pageant, contestant sponsorships and ticket sales. Twelve scholarships were given out at the Job’s Daughters’ Annual Grand Session in June to members and majority members of Job’s Daughters who are furthering their education.

The pageant is also used as a tool to teach members of Job’s Daughters life skills. Each contestant is judged on a speech presentation, a personal interview, knowledge of Job’s Daughters, and dining and social etiquette. Many former pageant contestants have said how much the pageant experience helped them with job and college interviews, and how it gave them an “edge” among their peers.

Front row, left-right: Leah Reidel, Miss Congeniality of Pennsylvania, 2010-2011; Ronald A. Aungst, Sr., R.W.P.G.M.; and Cecile Madonna, Miss Job’s Daughter of Pennsylvania, 2010-2011 Back row, left-right: District Deputy Grand Masters Noble P. Johnson, District 60; Larry A. Derr, District 1; S. Eugene Herritt, District 3; Gregory L. Latchford, District 19; and Teddy D. Sizemore, District 42.

Rainbow Assemblies Work for Many Charities

Rainbow Girls at the Walk for MDA SERVICE is a very important lesson for all Rainbow Girls. Each local Assembly plans at least one service (charity) activity each month.

These events range from sending the Sunshine

Collection to a favorite project, to organizing a fund raiser for a cause, to “girl-hours” volunteering many, many hours and everything in between.

Many times we are the helping hands. Rainbow is alive and growing in Pennsylvania!

Each year, the Grand Worthy Advisor selects a charity project to support. This past year, Danielle Dunmire chose The Starlight Children’s Foundation. Starlight works with terminally ill children and their families to provide entertainment opportunities before, during and after treatments. The main source of money raised for this charity is through the sale of a state pin. The pin sold this past year was a star burst tac pin. Over $3,000 was presented to the Foundation at the Annual Grand Assembly meeting in July.

If you have charity projects, consider asking

Rainbow Girls to help. They are willing and able (with young backs and knees) and LOVE being asked to be of service to the Masonic fraternity. If you need assistance in contacting a local Assembly, please go to our Web site, www.PARainbowgirls.org, or contact Mrs. Helen Snedden, Supreme Deputy, at HSnedden@aol.com, or (412) 953-9455.

DeMolay Food Drive Pilgrim DeMolay Chapter of Harrisburg worked with the members of Perseverance Lodge No. 21, Harrisburg, during the month of March to collect food for the Central PA Food Bank in Harrisburg. This project was initiated by Matt Skinner, Master Councilor for Pilgrim Chapter, when developing his plans for “DeMolay Month” activities. Collection barrels were placed in the Harrisburg Consistory and in the West Shore Lodge buildings. By working with the local lodges, the young men were able to help their community and meet the Grand Master’s objectives, while at the same time, supporting DeMolay public service initiatives.

August 2010 31

nnial Special!

Cente The American Council on Gift Annuities is not increasing rates for all ages. However, for a limited time, we are offering a Centennial special increase until Dec. 31, 2010, for one-life gift annuities age 82 and up not increased

by ACGA rates.

GIFT ANNUITY RATES RISE Effective this past July 1, the rates for Charitable Gift Annuities have been increased. This is good news for contributors of this income-to-donor gift.

Charitable Gift Annuities are a special kind of charitable gift that pays donors for life. For a minimum gift of $5,000, donors age 65 and up are eligible for a rate ranging from 5.5 percent to 9.6 percent (per chart) based on their age at the time of the gift. The older the donor, the higher the rate. Based on this fixed rate, donors receive a check quarterly for life. After the beneficiary(ies) pass on, whatever is left in the gift annuity goes to Masonic Charities for its charitable work. Gift annuities can pay one or two persons.

For two people, full payments continue for both lifetimes.

Gift annuities have other attractive benefits. Usually more than half of the amount donors receive is tax-free for their projected lifetime(s). Donors also receive a tax deduction. If appreciated securities are used for the gift annuity, there is a saving of capital gains tax. Masonic Charities always recommends consulting one’s own professional advisor when considering any planned gift.

Rates for gift annuities are set nationally by the American Council on Gift Annuities (ACGA). The new ACGA rate schedule increases rates by .1 or .2 percent for many ages. For one-life gift annuities for those ages not increased by the ACGA, Masonic Charities has introduced a “Centennial Special” rate increase through Dec. 31, 2010. To receive an illustration showing your rate and other benefits, with no obligation, please call one of the offices listed to the right, or return the attached reply slip.

Gift annuities are among the most popular charitable gifts, with hundreds of Masonic donors now receiving payments. They are the ultimate win-win: donors receive attractive financial benefits, and Masonic Charities receives support for its great charitable work.

SAMPLE GIFT ANNUITY RATES* One-Life

Two-Life

Age

Rate

Ages

Rate

70

5.8%

70 & 75

5.5%

75

6.4%

75 & 80

5.9%

80

7.2%

80 & 85

6.6%

85

8.2%

85 & 90

7.5%

90+

9.6%

*This chart shows rates for the posted ages only.

Rates are assigned for specific ages and may fall between the figures shown.

For more information on making a charitable bequest to Masonic Charities or any charity, please contact the Office of Gift Planning nearest you. Or, visit our Web site at www.masonicvillagespa.org/howyoucanhelp.php.

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

COMPLETE AND MAIL THIS FORM TO:

Office of Gift Planning, Masonic Charities, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022 Phone (800) 599-6454  Please send me a benefits illustration, with no obligation, showing my rate and other benefits from a Masonic Charities Charitable Gift Annuity, based on the following information: My age________ My spouse’s age________(if a two-life annuity) Amount(s)$___________________________________ ($5,000 minimum) (up to three amounts) If you are considering using appreciated stock, estimate your cost basis in dollars or percent_______________.  Please call me to answer my questions. My phone (______)_______________________  I/We need to hold onto our assets during our lifetimes, but may consider a bequest in our will. Please send us information on this.  I/we have already included a Masonic Charity in our will. Please let us know the benefits of having done so.  Please send your Annual Report so we can see what Masonic Charities does.

Comments or other instructions________________________________________ Name(s)_________________________________________________________________________ Address_________________________________________________________________________ City____________________________________State__________Zip_______________________

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.