Freemason - August 2011

The Pennsylvania

August 2011 • Volume LVIII No. 3

Welcoming the New Generation of Freemasons

to this Age-Old Fraternity

Grand Master’s Banquet For Tickets & Reservations

Mail In Option: Enclosed is a check for $________ for ___ reservation(s) at $50 per person for the banquet and show at the Hershey Lodge & Convention Center on Dec. 27.

Please make check payable to “Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania” and mail to Membership Services, Masonic Temple, One North Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19107-2598

Name:____________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________ City:______________________________________________ State:__________ ZIP code:___________________________ Phone:____________________________________________ Lodge No:_________________________________________

Direct Contact: Erik Fredericksen 1740 Hidden Lane, Lancaster, PA 17603 • 717-475-7187 • erikfred@comcast.net Grand Lodge Office One N. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19107 • 215-988-1900 • GMOffice@pagrandlodge.org Reservations will be accepted on a “first-come” basis. Deadline for reservations is December 1, 2011.

THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON® VOL. LVIII, AUGUST 2011, NO. 3

©2011 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 2011 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.

4 Grand Lodge

• Q & A with the Grand Master: “Changing Our Image” • Help for Our Heroes • June Quarterly Communication • Incentive to Give So Others May Live

9 Freemason

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.

• Showing a Lifetime of Gratitude • Bro. Stark: A Modern-day Renaissance Man • Volume of Sacred Law is 400 Years Old • New Online Payment Option: Safe & Secure • The Ladies of the Fraternity • Looking Back, with Joy

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.

17 Lodge & District

• Random Acts of Kindness • Lodge Community Service Initiatives • Congratulations to ... • Masonic Influence in Central PA • Masonic Patriots Celebrate Presidents’ Day • “Retirees” School • Camaraderie & Celebration • Marines Confer Degree • Open House Yields Impressive Turnout • Degree Conferral in Philadelphia • Widows Sons Riders

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP (Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United States Code) August 1, 2011, 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.

26 PA Masonic Youth Foundation

• Rainbow is Thriving in Central PA • Ladies Honored with Flower Talk • Educational Endowment Fund Scholarships Awarded • HODEGOS Honorees • DeMolay Helps Make Blood Drive Successful

28 Masonic Villages

Thomas K. Sturgeon, Editor

• 2011 Wish List Items • Celebrating Life’s Accomplishments • A Village for Every Lifestyle • Autumn Day 2011 • Donation Celebration

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.

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Subscribe to the online edition! www.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.

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The Grand Master’s

GR AND LODGE

Changing Our Image Q: How important is it for Freemasonry to be more visible in our communities?

A: I truly believe that the leaders of our gentle craft must make it a priority to shed the aura of secrecy and make our fraternity more open and transparent. Over the years, Masons have faded from the public eye and lost their significance within the community.

Public awareness of Masonry begins at the grassroots level. Individually and through our lodges, we must be visible in the community and demonstrate the importance of Masonic values in every aspect of our lives.

Our fraternity is frequently misunderstood and misrepresented in the press and by religious critics. In order to improve our public image, we need to clarify it by educating others through not only our words, but also our actions. The Masonic fraternity should be known as a serious men’s organization – an inclusive brotherhood providing camaraderie, trust and support – that emphasizes individual excellence and advocates for the well being of others.

Mohandas Gandhi advised, “You must

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

At a parade, Grand Master Sturgeon poses with a tractor similar to the one he operated in his youth.

be the change you wish to see in the world.”

If we truly want to make a difference in our communities and within our fraternity, we must be committed to making necessary changes, beginning with ourselves. While it is not in our nature or our heritage to tout our many good deeds, we need to remember that if we don’t tell people what Freemasonry is all about, they will never know!

Q: How do you respond to those who think that it is important to carry on as we have for the past 280 years, remaining private and reserved?

A: The whole world has changed dramatically over the past 280 years: our government, our churches, our military, our technology and our lifestyles. How can we assume that we don’t need to change with it? The proof is in our membership numbers; they did not increase until last year, when we committed to the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance and made some necessary, long overdue changes. Our membership decline over the past 50 years is merely a symptom of the loss

of Masonry’s relevance to our busy lifestyles and our communities.

Dwight D. Eisenhower said, “Neither a wise man nor a brave man lies down on the tracks of history to wait for the train of the future to run over him.” For too long, we have taken our fraternity’s identity and reputation for granted. We’ve ridden on the coattails of former prominent brothers’ successes and Freemasonry’s immense influence in the past, and have been blinded to the challenges of the present. We’ve placed our Masonic obligations in the back seat and weakened our commitment to achieving our own distinction as a thriving, benevolent fraternity of moral, compassionate men who are core to the fabric of our society.

We have allowed the general public to forget (in fact, perhaps we’ve forgotten ourselves) how we enrich the quality of life for our members, families and communities.

The public’s perception and opinion of Freemasonry is often based on insufficient information. It is our responsibility to educate them about Freemasonry and show through our actions what it means to live a principled

GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

Masonic life. If we don’t communicate effectively in this technologically-driven world, people will make assumptions based on what they hear and see in the media. I think we owe it to ourselves, the forefathers of this great fraternity and to the public at large to make sure Freemasonry is better understood, more pervasive and well promoted.

Q: What do you think is gained by being so open with the fraternity?

A: I believe that the greatest membership development tools we can use are to be visible in our communities, to continue to offer assistance to those in need, to support our aged and our young, and to show the world that we enjoy having fun while still remaining committed to our ancient but beautiful traditions. If we do this, men will see us for who we really are and will want to join and be one of us.

Someone once said, “A rose only becomes beautiful and blesses others when it opens up and blooms. Its greatest tragedy is to stay in a tight-closed bud, never fulfilling its potential.”

Is our Masonic fraternity any different? I think not. Let’s share this wonderful fraternity with the world and return our membership to the grandeur of its prime!

Q: What have you done differently to make Freemasonry more visible in our communities?

A: I have continued to encourage all of our lodges to have open houses to enable the community to see behind those previously closed doors. We have built a beautiful parade float (pictured below) which we will display

in at least six major parades throughout Pennsylvania this year. The parades will have scores of lodge and appendant body officers marching with us, showing the world who we are and what we stand for. We have had church services where we, as Masons, worship together in the regular weekly church service to show our friends and neighbors that we are regular men of God.

We have had more newspaper articles about our fraternity in the last few years than ever before. We are being recognized for putting our Masonic values into action within our communities. Many of these efforts also have been featured in this magazine. Through community service, others see and experience that Freemasonry is rewarding, enriching and relevant to its members, their families and the greater community. Bro. Danny Thomas said, “Success in life has nothing to do with what you gain in life or accomplish for yourself.

It’s what you do for others.” I couldn’t agree more.

Q: Last month, ladies were featured on the cover of “The Pennsylvania Freemason.”

What reaction did you receive?

A: At first, I was not certain what I would receive, but in the end, it was overwhelmingly positive. In fact, so much so, that in this issue we are recognizing more of our ladies who do so much for us. Freemasonry is a men’s organization, but it could not exist without the commitment of our wives and significant ladies in our lives. Bro. Harry S. Truman wisely said, “It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit.” Thanks to our supportive ladies, much gets done behind the scenes – hard work, hours of volunteer efforts and selfless service – all without any expectation of reward or the recognition they deserve.

Q: Is there going to be a One Day Masonic Journey again in 2011?

A: Even with the popularity of last year’s One Day Masonic Journey, we learned that just as many men enjoy the traditional process of joining the fraternity. Therefore, while we will not be hosting a statewide event this year, we have made some special accommodations for those men who desire to join but who are challenged by the traditional process due to their busy schedules and commitments.

Regional One Day Masonic Journeys are being held across the Commonwealth on various dates and at several locations. If you know of someone who fits this description, contact your District Deputy Grand Master or Lodge Secretary for information on an event near you.

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GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

HELP FOR OUR HEROES

Grand Lodge Showers Military Families with Gratitude

Left-right: Brothers Marvin Levy, P.M., Danny Hinds, Col. John Spare, R.W. Senior Grand Warden Bob Bateman, R.W. Deputy Grand Master Jay W. Smith, Col. Harris Brooks, and Daniel McCaffery, volunteer mentor for veterans courts.

The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania teamed up with the March of Dimes to surprise 30 expectant military moms and dads with a baby shower and gifts at Joint Base McGuire-DixLakehurst, N.J., on June 11. The base serves all branches of the military.

The moms-to-be received an infant car seat and gift boxes filled with baby supplies, including diapers, educational toys and much more – courtesy of Pennsylvania Masons’ generous donations to the Help for Our Heroes program.

“The Pennsylvania Masons are thrilled to partner with the March of Dimes,” said R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon. “In addition to our financial support, we want to thank all of the new military parents-to-be for the sacrifices and contributions they and their families make to better our country each and every day.”

Moms-to-be, and in some cases, brand new parents, also received the latest pregnancy and newborn health information from the March of Dimes Mission: Healthy Baby® program, designed to educate military parents and address their unique needs. The showers provide this opportunity while supporting military members who may be stationed far away from the support of family and friends, or who may be fighting

a war while their partner is home, expecting a child. Very high levels of stress, such as the stress caused by a deployment, may contribute to premature birth or low birth weight in fullterm babies.

“Having a baby is a joyful experience.

However, it’s also one that comes with anxiety and stress, especially when your spouse is deployed overseas by the U.S. military,” said Jane Massey, executive vice president and chief operating officer of the March of Dimes. “The March of Dimes is excited and grateful for this opportunity to partner with the Masons to give these military families the comfort and support they deserve.”

R.W. Deputy Grand Master Jay W. Smith and R.W. Senior Grand Warden Robert J. Bateman joined Bro. and Col. Harris Brooks to preside over the specially-planned event, representing the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.

The room was decorated with purple camouflage tablecloths topped with beautiful flowers, decorative balloons and posters welcoming the honorees with phrases like, “Three cheers for your new recruit!”

Upon arrival, the ladies were escorted to their seats by 20 young volunteer sergeants in uniform from the Noncommissioned Officers

Academy, who previously had been given an introduction to Freemasonry and the March of Dimes. Following lunch and speakers, the gifts were provided to the expectant parents.

“It was phenomenal!” Bro. Brooks said.

“Many of the women and their husbands were crying, and I heard a number of them saying, ‘I can’t believe anyone would do this for us!’”

To top it all off, Bro. and Col. Jonathan W. Spare, Vice Commander of the 514th Air Mobility Wing and member of Brotherhood Lodge No. 126, asked one of the honorees to help him select the winner of the door prize: a large stroller with an infant car seat and a $575 gift card to Babies “R” Us. To the excitement of the crowd, he read the ticket and announced, “Everyone’s a winner!” Every single attendee took home the prizes.

Many smiling through their tears, the women whose husbands are deployed were escorted home by a sergeant, who carried her gifts and made sure everything was put together or placed where she needed it.

“The fact that the community is focused on supporting military families is inspiring,” added Bro. and Lt. Col. John Barlett, Bellefont Lodge No. 268, Commander of the 87th Air Force Support Squadron, who was also in attendance.

“Every Pennsylvania Freemason should be proud to be part of this initiative!” Grand Master Sturgeon said.

One particular honoree was very familiar.

Almost exactly a year prior, Staff Sgt. Richard Slifer, Jr., presented a petition to become a Mason to Bro. Brooks to join Brotherhood Lodge No. 126 while assisting with a tour of a C17 for residents of the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill. He became a Master Mason during the One Day Masonic Journey. His pregnant wife, an Air Force Tech Sergeant, is on assignment in Texas, so he proudly attended the shower in her absence: A Mason, A Hero, and now – A Dad.

GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

June Quarterly

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On June 18, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania held a Quarterly Communication at the Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center. Highlights included: In attendance were 228 brethren representing 131 lodges, as well as six distinguished guests and visitors: • The membership statistical report indicated a total increase in members for 2010 of 401, the first increase in more than 50 years.

• 60-Year Masonic Service Awards were presented to R.W. Past Grand Master Samuel C. Williamson, Valley Lodge No. 613, Turtle Creek, and Bro. James M. Ecker, Dallas Lodge No. 231, Pittsburgh, Aide to the Grand Master.

• A Masonic watch was presented to Bro. Wallace L. Sturgeon, Oakdale Lodge No. 669, Senior Grand Deacon, for being a first-line signer on 10 or more new petitions.

• The Masonic Scholar Award was presented to Bro. Drew R. Reed, P.M., Acacia Lodge No. 586, Waynesboro.

• A presentation was given by Bro. Ronald P. Kamp, Utica Lodge 47, N.Y., and executive of the Masonic Medical Research Laboratory of New York.

• The following deaths were announced: • Bro. Robert S. Wolverton, Danville-Mahoning Lodge No. 224, Danville, Past District Deputy Grand Master of the 35th Masonic District, died Feb. 12, 2011.

• Bro. Ralph F. Spearly, State College Lodge No. 700, Past District Deputy Grand Master of the 21st Masonic District, died April 23, 2011.

• Bro. William A. Wetterau, SouthamptonRadiant Star Lodge No. 806, Warminster, Past District Deputy Grand Master of the 8th Masonic District and member of the Committee on Masonic Education, died May 18, 2011.

• The following appointments were announced: • Bro. David J. Williamson, Shenango Valley Lodge No. 810, Hermitage, Grand Chaplain, effective Dec. 27, 2010.

• Bro. Robert A. Sutcliffe, Oriental Lodge No. 460, Orangeville, Regional Instructor, Region 7, effective Dec. 27, 2010, vice Bro. Walter “Skip” F. Lindemuth, retired.

• Bro. Jeffrey T. Shank, Prince Edwin-Spring Creek Lodge No. 486, Middletown, Aide to the Grand Master, effective Dec. 27, 2010.

• Bro. James A. Yoder, McVeytown Lodge No. 376, Grand Chaplain, effective April 28, 2011.

• Bro. Lindemuth, Acacia Lodge No. 579, Taylor, was made a Regional Instructor Emeritus.

• R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon was presented with a beautiful wooden hand-crafted lamp made by Bro. Alex Portellos, P.M., South Hills Lodge No. 761, Bethel Park, which the Grand Master designated to be placed at the Masonic Village at Sewickley.

• Grand Master Sturgeon received contributions in excess of $37,841.59 from several lodges to various Masonic charities.

Photos (top to bottom): Grand Master Sturgeon presents a 60-year pin to R.W.P.G.M. Samuel C. Williamson and to Bro. James Ecker, Aide to the Grand Master. Bro. Alex Portellos presents his hand-made wooden lamp to Grand Master Sturgeon. Grand Master Sturgeon presents a Masonic watch to his brother, Bro. Wallace L. Sturgeon, for being a first-line signer on more than 10 petitions.

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GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

Incentive to Give So Others May Live

Last year, the Masonic Blood and Organ Donor Club of Pennsylvania (Masonic Blood Donor Club) began a new program to encourage members to get involved in its mission to save lives: “We give that others may live.”

With funds accumulated over the last 20 years through voluntary contributions from club members and various supportive blue lodges, the club devised a charitable incentive for various levels of participation in organizing a blood drive. It works like this: • For every unit of blood collected during a Masonic-sponsored blood drive, the club donates $10 to an IRSapproved 501(c)(3) Masonic-affiliated charity. Examples include the Masonic Charities Fund, Masonic Villages, Masonic Children’s Home, Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania, Children’s Dyslexia Centers, Shriners Hospitals, etc.

• If the drive is held at a Masonic facility, such as a blue lodge, shrine or temple, then the club donates $10 for every Masonic or non-Masonic blood donor.

• If the blood drive is held at a nonMasonic location, the club donates $10 for every unit collected from a Mason.

“This incentive encourages our Masonic bodies not only to collect blood

to save lives, but also to invite the public to see what Masons are doing, tour our beautiful facilities and ask, ‘How do I become a member?’ or ‘How does my husband become a member?’” said Bro. Norm Fox, President of the Masonic Blood Donor Club.

The program has already seen success. Last year alone, the club donated approximately $100,000 to various Masonic charities, which equates to 10,000 units of blood collected through drives that were eligible for the incentive. (This does not include blood collected through a drive sponsored by the blood club alone.)

According to the American Red Cross, each unit of blood collected helps four patients, which means that more than 40,000 people were helped through the Masonic Blood Donor Club in 2010.

The Masonic Blood Donor Club has approximately 30,100 members, almost 17,000 of which are widows. Every Masonic member who donates blood or has a substitute donate for him, becomes a member of the Masonic Blood Donor Club for life. Should any member, or any of his/her family living under the same roof, have a need, he/she will never have to pay for blood anywhere in the world.

For more information on how to join or to organize a blood drive, visit www.pagrandlodge.org/programs/donor.

FREEMASON

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

Showing a Lifetime of Gratitude – One Month at a Time The Masonic Charities now offers donors a more convenient way to give: automatic contributions withdrawn from their bank account or charged to their credit card monthly.

Important Benefits of the Masonic Charities Loyalty Club:

• The monthly electronic transfer or credit card charge will cost you nothing.

• Easier to fulfill charitable commitments.

• Easier personal budgeting.

• The payment appears on your account the day of the withdrawal, simplifying record keeping.

• Allows you to contribute even when you’re away from home.

• You don’t have to worry about your checks being lost or stolen.

• Participation or donation amount may be changed at any time.

We will give you proof of your donations at the end of the year for tax purposes. Your monthly bank statement or credit card statement will provide you with a record of transfer as additional proof of your donations.

To join the Masonic Charities Loyalty Club, you may: • Call the Office of Gift Planning at (800) 599-6454 or • Visit Masonic Charities’ website, www.masonicvillagespa.org.

On the site, select “How You Can Help” and then choose “Online Gifts.” Scroll 2/3 of the way down the page and click to download the “Masonic Charities Loyalty Club” form.

Mail completed forms to: Masonic Charities Office of Gift Planning One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022

One donor who finds the program especially beneficial is Bro. Walter Balliet, Joseph H. Brown Lodge No. 751, Philadelphia, a long-time supporter of the Masonic Children’s Home.

Among his contributions to the Masonic Children’s Home are a named endowment and a child endowment (covers in perpetuity the annual cost of caring for a child). The Balliet Cottage provides a home for up to eight girls between the ages of 11 and 15.

In addition, he makes donations to take care of the children’s home’s everyday needs.

After seeing the Masonic Charities Loyalty Club mentioned in a publication from Masonic Villages, Bro. Balliet signed up for the program.

It will help him fulfill his desire to provide for the children’s home on a regular basis.

The program makes giving “a lot easier,” he said. “For a guy my age, writing a check is a pain in the neck. Keeping records is, as far as I’m concerned, a waste of time.”

The Masonic Children’s Home holds a special place in Bro. Balliet’s heart. As a youth, he spent three years at the Thomas Ranken Patton Masonic Institution for Boys, located at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.

When he was 15, Bro. Balliet moved to the Patton School after his father, Walter, who was a Shriner and belonged to the Knights Templar, passed away from acute appendicitis. During the Depression, Walter and his mother and sister lost their home and ran out of money.

Bro. Tommy Brunt, a Masonic friend of Bro. Balliet’s father, negotiated his move to the Patton School, where he entered the machinist trade.

“It was a major impact on my life,” he said.

“They fed me, clothed me, took care of my medical conditions; they did everything for me.”

After graduation, Bro. Balliet worked for Westinghouse Electric Company as a machinist for a short while and held several other jobs before settling in at Bridge Tool and Die Works as a tool and die maker for 32 years. Since his

retirement at age 58, he has dedicated much of his life to a unique form of art known as ornamental turning. Using an ornamental lathe he built himself, he has created hundreds of beautiful and intricate wooden items and is known nationwide for designing tools and machinery. The Wood Turning Center in Philadelphia displayed part of his collection of 300 pieces through the end of July.

Invited to visit the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown during its centennial celebration in June 2010, Bro. Balliet returned to the campus for the first time since he left the Patton School in 1935. He met the girls living in “his” cottage and toured the campus.

The campus has grown a lot in the last 75 years, including the landscape. Bro. Balliet remembers being able to see the Grand Lodge Hall clearly from the Patton School, but now hundreds of trees hide the view. “I carried it with me my whole life, even though I never got back (until now),” he said, of his experience at the school.

Bro. Balliet’s visit and a meeting with R.W. Grand Master Thomas Sturgeon inspired him to join the Masonic fraternity. On Oct. 30, 2010, at the age of 93, he was initiated as a Mason into Joseph H. Brown Lodge No. 751.

In addition to his father being a Mason, Shriner and Knight Templar, Bro. Balliet’s mother was active in the Order of the Eastern Star.

“I carry the fact that I was educated and cared for when I was a kid, and I thought I owed the Masons big time for their treatment,” he said. “It was also a way to honor my father and mother.”

The Masonic fraternity changed Bro. Balliet’s life more than 75 years ago, and in return, he wishes to change the lives of today’s youth at the Masonic Children’s Home. The Masonic Charities Loyalty Club is helping to grant his wish, so he can focus on other important goals in his life.

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FREEMASON

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

Bro. Jim Stark: A Modern-day Renaissance Man When Bro. Jim Stark began his professional career, he walked up to a long, intimidating desk at Convair (an aerospace manufacturing company) and took a number, as if he was ordering meat at the deli.

When the man behind the desk called his number, he approached and learned that the man had attended Grove City College in Pennsylvania, like Bro. Stark – a matter of chance or a blessing from God, depending on your perspective, since the Convair office was in San Diego. After learning that Bro. Stark had strong technical skills from studying engineering, but a passion for management, the man sent him to the chief engineer. Following a series of interviews, Convair offered Bro. Stark a project management job.

Little did he know, the research and development team members who interviewed him were visionaries on the brink of a breakthrough.

As such, one of Bro. Stark’s first projects was the Atlas missile – the first American intercontinental ballistics missile, capable of carrying a nuclear warhead anywhere on Earth.

“The aerospace industry is a very fast-paced industry, and since I was technical, that’s the industry I wanted to go into,” Bro. Stark said.

“The Atlas missile was a wonderful challenge because there were a lot of problems. …

“Some of these problems really are not solvable because the equipment and technology are not available, so you need to identify who you need to work with to accomplish each project,” Bro. Stark said. As a result, he worked with many interesting people. To best integrate the technology that developed during World War II into the Atlas missile, he even collaborated with men who had developed revolutionary German weapons.

“Something that starts out as one project results in a multitude of engineering breakthroughs … one path leads to another path and so on,” he explained.

Bro. Stark’s life seemed to take a similar journey which started with a vision. With each passing experience, he explored a new road, sought additional challenges and gained knowledge that he had not anticipated needing earlier in his journey.

After graduating from Grove City College, he earned a Master of Public Administration (MPA), Master of Business Administration (MBA) and two Ph.D.s. He has taught graduate-level courses all over the world through five universities; has served as department chairman and dean for several universities; and has been awarded honors for his teaching. He has travelled and worked with high-ranking government and military figures to manage aerospace engineering projects through five businesses, and now owns his own consulting firm. While balancing a successful career, and even after retirement, he supported his beautiful wife; raised four children; traveled for pleasure; joined Pennsylvania Freemasonry, the California Scottish and York Rites and American Legion; remained true to his Christian faith; and volunteered his time and resources to support multiple non-profit organizations.

It all started in Pennsylvania …

Bro. Stark grew up in Tarentum. His family proudly worked in the steel industry at Allegheny Ludlum, the first producers of stainless steel.

His roots impacted the lifestyle he pursued and the person he became.

“My family was somewhat optimistic.

They didn’t feel any restrictions as far as being upwardly mobile. Everyone seemed somewhat ambitious, and education was a big thing,” Bro. Stark said. His family valued setting goals and striving to achieve them.

No subject was too controversial to discuss at the dinner table with his parents and three sisters. “We talked about world affairs growing

up. … We were aware that if someone else had thoughts and ideas that you didn’t share, you were sensitive to them and not afraid to discuss the differences,” he said.

When Bro. Stark graduated from high school, he would have been drafted into the Army. Instead, he joined the Navy. “We went into the military because we recognized our obligation was to join the armed forces, and we were more or less happy to do that. We took our responsibility seriously,” he said.

Bro. Stark never saw battle because World War II ended several months into his service.

After two years, the Navy Fleet asked him to join the military as a career, but Bro. Stark had other aspirations. With the help of the G.I. Bill, he attended Grove City College to study engineering.

“I, like a lot of ex-military men, were in a hurry because we had a couple of years appropriated to the military, so we felt like we were a few years behind,” he said.

In 1951, while attending Grove City, Bro. Stark joined the lodge that many of his family members belonged to – Pollock Lodge No. 502, Tarentum. “The Masonic fraternity is one of the oldest and largest in the world. It keeps a lot of us going,” he said. “I’ve visited Masonic organizations all over the world – some of which speak English, and some don’t. The state of Pennsylvania has such a great organization.”

... And continued in California

After college, Bro. Stark hitched a ride to California with one of his favorite professors, Edward Boden, to further his education at the University of Southern California (USC).

About half way through the graduate program, however, Bro. Stark recognized that without hands-on management experience, he would not get as much out of his education. He left USC to work for Convair, where he worked on the Atlas missile project.

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

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Three years later, USC accepted His four children live him back into the MBA program, throughout the country. Sandy, a and Bro. Stark took a part-time psychologist specializing in disaster job at Hughes Aircraft Co., which preparedness in Los Angeles and became a full-time field engineer throughout the United States, is position when he graduated. married with a daughter. Tracy, “I realized that there were who has earned two master’s some good things being done in degrees, has a passion for working statistics,” Bro. Stark said. He went with people with disabilities and back to USC part-time to earn his became a teacher. She now works MPA while he worked at Hughes in administration and planning.

Aircraft Co. She and her husband have two “I became fascinated with sons. Bro. Stark’s sons, Jim Jr. and this notion of being able to predict Seth, followed in his footsteps by human behavior, using statistical pursuing aerospace technology. analysis to determine needs, and Jim Jr. works in Virginia, while skills and learning how to develop Bro. Stark and Fran with former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld Seth finished his MBA and now precisely this kind of technology runs his own consulting business or behavior so people are more in Seattle. spacecraft, and Bro. Stark and his team had the perceptive to their surroundings,” Bro. Stark retired from Bro. Stark said. “It had to do with change and responsibility of making it happen, whether the Hughes Aircraft Co. in 1988 and moved to how people respond to it. … and I got into a lot technology to do it had been invented or not. Julian, Calif., a small gold mining town. Eight Some of his work began to evolve into years later, he retired from teaching. of heavy psychology ideas that I didn’t anticipate.” improving human interaction with technology.

With each degree he earned, concept he For instance, what’s the most effective and Bro. Stark hasn’t taken his retirement became passionate about and road of life he took, Bro. Stark’s career path became more safest way to train a pilot in a single-man craft sitting down. at supersonic speeds? Or, since pilots have to and more refined.

He is still the owner and president of System look at their instruments in a circular motion Research Associates, but admits that most of his One thing did surprise him, though.

As a California bachelor, love was not on and have constant awareness of them, how can current work is for friends and acquaintances. He cockpits be adjusted to make it easier for pilots belongs to the Service Core of Retired Executives his radar. to monitor their instruments? These types of and served on the Julian Planning Commission, queries brought up discussions of how the right Julian Education Foundation, Julian Friends “Eureka!”

A young secretary to a group manager at and left sides of the brain work individually of the Library and board of directors at Desert Hughes Aircraft Co., Mary Ann, kept an eye on and together, and eventually led to Bro. Stark’s Breezes resort. He supports non-profits, such the eligible bachelors at work. When her sister, Ph.D. in human behavior from International as Heifer International, the Young America’s Fran, was coming for a visit, she convinced Bro. University, Institute of Luxembourg.

Foundation and the Masonic Charities, financially Incidentally, the aircraft industry developed and by speaking at functions to advocate for Stark to call her. “She sounded delightful on the phone. … I took her to dinner, and she was a trainer aircraft that two people could fly their fund raising goals. He served on the John charming and attractive and talked a lot about together to solve the first problem. For the Wanamaker Research Center Committee for her plans for teaching. … Next thing I knew, I second, the French aerospace industry developed the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and is now a the technology to project instruments on the member of the Committee on Masonic Homes was infatuated with her,” Bro. Stark said. windscreen of the plane, so pilots no longer had Building and Grounds Subcommittee.

But timing has a mind of its own.

Fran returned to Indiana to fulfill a teaching to look down to monitor their flight.

Even with only 24 hours in a day, Bro. While he worked at Hughes Aircraft Co., Stark has time to enjoy himself. He and Fran position she had taken. After a year, Bro. Stark received a phone call and learned that Fran was Bro. Stark began teaching graduate courses at share a passion for restoring old homes. For the moving back to California. In 1957, Bro. Stark USC, and eventually became a professor at past five years, they’ve been working together to Pepperdine University, Ambassador College, restore their 1875 home in New Carlisle, Ind., and Fran got married.

With a wife supporting his passion for West Coast University and Northrop University. to its former glory. For part of the year, they education, Bro. Stark continued learning. He His careers took him all across the United States also live in California. realized that economics played a large role and throughout the world.

Bro. Stark values ambition; investing in people, “It’s fun to travel if you’re willing to try ideas and organizations; and growing spiritually. in his field and eventually earned a Ph.D. in international economics from Alliant to be sensitive to the country you’re travelling But at the end of the day, he knows that giving International University, San Diego. He began in,” Bro. Stark said. He always tries to learn back is just as important. “Take on responsibility, to deal with “heavy-duty” economics and a few words of the language in the countries and when you feel you’ve been blessed, share some political issues which affected his projects. “I he visits, and studies social expectations and of the funds and interactions you’ve been blessed worked in an environment which was terribly cultural faux pas before his arrival. by with those around you,” he advises.

“I’m proud of being a Christian … and competitive and involved life and death and a lot of political issues,” he said. “You’re dealing having that curiosity is extremely helpful to “I’m thrilled to see such being able to look realistically at situations and with multi-faceted problems.” accomplished men as Bro. Stark Bro. Stark’s projects were a result of powerful think sensitively,” he said. representing our fraternity to the Whether for pleasure or business, Fran government officials’ projected future worries world,” R.W. Grand Master Thomas or threats and high-ranking military officials’ would often accompany Bro. Stark on his trips.

Bro. Stark says he’s spent more time at sea with K. Sturgeon said. future needs. They would explain what features they needed in a defense weapon, aircraft or his wife than he did while serving in the Navy.

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Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

Volume of the Sacred Law is 400 Years Old!

by Dr. Glenys A. Waldman, Senior Research Librarian, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania

Title page of the first King James version. http:// en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:KJV-King-James-VersionBible-first-edition-title-page-1611.jpg The King James version of the Bible celebrates its 400th anniversary in 2011!

Although others are accepted, the King James version has been the traditional volume of the Sacred Law on the altar in open lodges throughout the United States. Upon attaining the sublime Degree of a Master Mason, throughout history, many brothers have also been presented with a “Masonic Bible.” This is a complete edition of the King James version with additional pages bound in it which relate biblical passages with Masonic topics.

The book, sold by The Masonic Library and Museum for presentation to Pennsylvania Masons, includes the complete text of “The Exemplar,” essays and other “helps,” as well as pages for keeping the owner’s Masonic record – all with gilded edges, in a sparkling, gold-stamped, blue binding.

The colorful history of Bible translations is long, complicated and even violent. The King James version, first published in 1611, was compiled by a hand-picked committee of 47 learned men – the best biblical scholars and linguists of their day – from Oxford and Cambridge Universities, who translated from the original Hebrew and Greek. This Bible was by no means prepared “in isolation;” these men had access to many previous editions

in many languages. Some of those previous translations were done at quite a cost to the translators because the Catholic Church considered such “tampering” with what they held to be the Word of God to be heresy.

John Wycliffe (mid-1320s-1384) was an early advocate for translation of the Bible into the common language. He translated directly from the (Latin) Vulgate into (what we now call Middle) English, completing his work in 1382. It is thought that he personally translated the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, and it is possible he translated the whole New Testament, while his associates translated the Old Testament. Wycliffe’s Bible seems to have been completed by 1384, but not without arguments with the authorities.

Wycliffe died that Dec. 31 in his own bed, but was not permitted to rest in peace! So embroiled in controversy was he, that his remains were exhumed and burned. The Bible survived, however, and was updated by Wycliffe’s assistant, John Purvey, and others, in 1388 and 1395.

The next great translator into English was William Tyndale (1494?-1536). While studying at Oxford, and later at Cambridge, Tyndale became very interested in the ideas of John Wycliffe. He became convinced that the church had become corrupt and selfish. Like Wycliffe and Martin Luther (with whom he later consulted), Tyndale thought it was important for people to read and interpret the Bible for themselves. He illegally acquired a copy of Luther’s German New Testament in the year it was published – 1522. Inspired by Luther’s work, Tyndale wished to do the same in English. He told Cuthbert Tunstall, the Bishop of London, of his plans. Tunstall rejected Tyndale’s offer, so Tyndale wisely moved to the Continent, living at first in Hamburg where he completed his New Testament in 1524. Tyndale was the first to translate from Hebrew and Greek into English. The first version of Tyndale’s English New Testament was printed in 1525 in Cologne. Tyndale moved the publishing process to Worms, where the first recorded complete edition of his New Testament was published in 1526. Two later versions, both revised by Tyndale himself, were published in 1534 and 1536. During the next few years, 18,000 copies of the New Testament were printed and smuggled into England.

Tyndale never published a complete Bible.

The tragic reason: Tyndale changed words and terms that appeared in the Catholic Bibles if he thought his translations were better. For example “church,” “priest,” “do penance” and

“charity,” became “congregation,” “senior” (changed to “elder” in the revised edition of 1534), “repent” and “love.” (A.C. Partridge, English Biblical Translation [London: André Deutsch Limited, 1973], 38-39, 52-52). The Catholic Church took great offense at these changes because they challenged many of the systems and doctrines that were its foundation.

Thus, in 1530, King Henry VIII (June 28, 1491 - Jan. 28, 1547; reigned April 21, 1509 until his death) gave orders that all English Bibles were to be destroyed. People caught distributing the Tyndale Bible in England were burned at the stake. This attempt to destroy Tyndale’s Bible was very successful: it seems only two copies have survived. In 1535, William Tyndale was betrayed by Henry Phillips, arrested in Antwerp and imprisoned in a castle near Brussels. Found guilty of heresy, on Oct. 6, 1536, he was strangled and burned at the stake by the crown authorities.

Prior to his execution, Tyndale had finished translating the entire New Testament and roughly half of the Old Testament. Of the latter, the Pentateuch (the first five Books of the Jewish and Christian scriptures: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy), Jonah and a revised version of the book of Genesis were published during his lifetime.

After his death, however, Tyndale’s works were revised and reprinted many times.

Furthermore, much of his work can be seen in more modern Bibles, especially in the King James version. Many of the simplest, best-known phrases are pure Tyndale, one being “knock and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7).

James VI of Scotland (June 19, 1566 March 27, 1625, reigned July 24, 1567 until his death) became James I of England and Ireland (reigned March 24, 1603 until his death) – the first king of both England and Scotland. As the closest living relative of the unmarried and childless Elizabeth I, James succeeded her because he was descended from one of Henry VIII’s sisters.

Near the top of the new king’s agenda was the convocation of Hampton Court Conference in January 1604 “for the hearing, and for the determining, things pretended to be amiss in the church.” Bishops, clergymen, professors and four Puritan divines assembled to consider the complaints of the Puritans. Although Bible revision was not on the agenda, John Reynolds, the Puritan president of Corpus Christi College, Oxford, “moved his Majesty, that there might be a new translation of the Bible, because those which were allowed in the reigns of Henry the eighth, and Edward

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the sixth, were corrupt and not answerable to the truth of the Original.” King James himself had complained that he “could never yet see a Bible well translated in English; but I think that, of all, that of Geneva is the worst.

I wish some special pains were taken for an uniform translation, which should be done by the best learned men in both Universities [Oxford and Cambridge], then reviewed by the Bishops, presented to the Privy Council, lastly ratified by the Royal authority, to be read in the whole Church, and none other.” Thus the resolution: “That a translation be made of the whole Bible, as consonant as can be to the original Hebrew and Greek; and this to be set out and printed, without any marginal notes, and only to be used in all churches of England in time of divine service.”

Tyndale’s Influence on English

In translating the Bible, Tyndale introduced new words into the English language, and many were subsequently used in the King James Bible: • Jehovah (from a transliterated Hebrew construction in the Old Testament; composed from the tetragrammaton YHWH. • Passover (as the name for the Jewish holiday, Pesach or Pesah) • scapegoat (the goat that bears the sins and iniquities of the people in Leviticus, Chapter 16) • Tyndale is said to have coined the word

atonement (linking the words “At One” to describe Christ’s work of restoring a good relationship – a reconciliation – between God and people). However, the word was probably in use by at least 1513, before Tyndale’s translation.

As well as individual words, Tyndale also coined such familiar phrases as: • lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil • knock and it shall be opened unto you • twinkling of an eye • a moment in time • seek and you shall find • ask and it shall be given you • judge not that you not be judged • let there be light • the powers that be • my brother’s keeper • the salt of the earth • it came to pass • gave up the ghost • the signs of the times • the spirit is willing • live and move and have our being • fight the good fight

Above: The beginning of the Gospel of John, from William Tyndale’s 1525 translation of the New Testament. Much information, and the pictures come from Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ William_Tyndale; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Bible); http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:KJV-KingJames-Version-Bible-first-edition-title-page-1611.jpg, and an article taken from the book, “A Brief History of English Bible Translations” by Dr. Laurence M. Vance (http://www.av1611.org/kjv/kjvhist.html).

New Online Payment Option: Safe & Secure The Grand Lodge has implemented an online payment method that makes it more convenient for members to pay their dues and more efficient for lodges to receive them.

Lodges that have enrolled can receive payments from credit cards and from Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfers directly from participating members’ bank accounts. Enrolled members also may establish recurring payments on a scheduled basis toward their dues or contributions to lodge activities and Pennsylvania Masonic Charities.

To use this service, lodge members must sign into the MEMBER SERVICES module of the www.pagrandlodge.org website, which can be accessed from the gray button on the lower right-hand side of the Grand Lodge Home page, or by visiting www2.pagrandlodge. org/services.

Members who have already created an identity to use the on-line Masonic Employment Center or the Business Directory can sign in and immediately access the new Payment Center. Members who have NOT yet registered for an account and received a user name and password, can sign in by entering the details requested and creating a Member Services account. To do this, they will need their Grand Lodge-assigned member number, which, for now, must be acquired from their Lodge Secretary. Beginning in 2012, member numbers will be included on the Grand Lodge-provided Dues Cards which are available to all Lodge Secretaries for distribution.

When members enter the Payment Center, they will find an option to make a payment to Pennsylvania Masonic Charities. If their Lodge Secretary has completed the paperwork to authorize the receipt of payments into the lodge checking account electronically, the lodge name and number will also appear as an option. Members of multiple lodges that have signed up for this service will have a list of lodges from which to select.

Grand Master Sturgeon encourages all members to participate in this new payment service. For more information about this service, please contact your Lodge Secretary.

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Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

The Ladies of the Fraternity meals. When other needs arise, she calls the culinary or horticultural Vo-tech students at a local school to make hors d’oeuvres or flower arrangements for special occasions. Karla has acknowledged that Freemasonry has brought her and Bro. Morkin closer and helped her to meet friends when she first moved to the area.

Giving Unique Gifts

Sandy Lewis at the June 21 Initiation Following the May issue of “The Pennsylvania Freemason,” submissions flooded in from brethren across the state wanting to champion the women who contribute selflessly to the Masonic fraternity in various ways.

These ladies not only share values with their male counterparts, but live out those values in their daily lives, providing the wind under the wings of Freemasonry. We pay tribute to these cherished ladies!

Helping In a Time of Need

“The members of Clearfield Lodge No. 314 are fortunate to have ladies who are willing to volunteer their time to help with activities,” Bro. Roger E. Marshall, P.M., Secretary, said.

About seven years ago, the lodge began to host spaghetti dinner fund raisers which required much effort. The ladies came to the rescue!

Sylvia Spingola, Dorothy Kovalick, Ann Duncan, Flo Lutz, Linda Dale, Gwen Condon, Mary Swales and Andrea Moody set up the tables and made meatballs the night before.

The next day, they served food. Flo brought her daughters to help.

During lodge-sponsored blood drives, Sylvia and Dorothy always assist the donors and serve snacks. The Moshannon Valley Assembly of Rainbow Girls No. 131 volunteers at fund raisers and dinners. Corin Monoskey, granddaughter of Bro. Jesse F. Mayhew, P.M., helped the Rainbow Girls at a chicken barbecue. When Bro. C. Fredrick Bloom Jr., S.W., organized an Easter

egg hunt, his wife, Tina Bloom, dressed as the Easter Bunny. For many years, Bro. Ron Fulmer, P.M., has been setting up the lodge for meetings, and his wife, Linda Fulmer, accompanies him to vacuum the lodge room.

Creating Venues for Fellowship

Wilma Wilson, wife of Bro. Gregory D. Wilson, P.M., and mother of Bro. Gregory S. Wilson, P.M., both of Valley Lodge No. 459, Masontown, works tirelessly for the lodge. Well into her second decade of service, Wilma cooks and serves all the meals for the stated meetings and plays a crucial role in biweekly hoagie sale fund raisers. “Many regular attending members and visiting brothers have stated that it is Wilma’s cooking that keeps them coming back,” Bro. Jim Flanigan, District Deputy Grand Master of District 29, said. “We cannot thank her enough.”

Beth Hinkle, wife of Bro. Gary Hinkle, P.M., Prince Edwin-Spring Creek Lodge No. 486, Middletown, also helps to plan functions, collect money and arrange ladies’ programs, as do Nora Wenner, wife of Bro. Richard Wenner, P.M., W.M., Steelton-Swatara Lodge No. 775, Steelton, and Mary McClure, wife of Bro. David W. McClure, Orrstown Lodge No. 262.

A month after Thomas E. Morkin, P.M., Cumberland Star Lodge No. 197, Carlisle, became Worshipful Master, the lodge Steward stepped down. Understanding her husband’s desire to create community, Karla Morkin stepped up to unofficially fill the role of Steward by preparing

Vera Spangler, wife of Bro. Dean A. Spangler, W.M., Lansdowne Lodge No. 711, made Santa Clauses last Christmas and sold them to raise money for the Masonic Villages. Vera, Bro. Spangler and Bro. Doug Rickards, P.M., then visited the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown to give residents a Santa and candy canes. “The residents were so elated to see them and expressed tremendous appreciation for the token of love during the holidays,” Bro. Ricky Swalm, District Deputy Grand Master of District 36, said.

Natalie Dreier, wife of Bro. James Dreier, W.M., Greater Johnstown Lodge No. 538, Johnstown, has lent her public relations skills to gain positive media attention for the fraternity.

This represents a breakthrough from decades of inadequate media coverage in the local area.

Natalie has also worked with Bro. Dreier to archive and display much of Cambria and Greater Johnstown Lodges’ rich collection of historical artifacts and memorabilia in the Johnstown Masonic Temple. Natalie also served as Worthy Matron of the Anna Windolph Chapter No. 495, O.E.S., one of numerous honors in her Masonic credentials.

Sharing the Load

Just as Barbara Weisser supports her husband, R.W. Past Grand Master Edward O. Weisser, Newtown Lodge No. 427, Woodside; and Valerie Johnson supports Bro. Roger Johnson, District Deputy Grand Master of District 27; Pat Snyder is the right-hand woman to Bro. Albert A. Snyder, P.M., Swatara Lodge No. 267, Tremont. Even before Bro. Snyder served as Worshipful Master, Pat prepared meals and desserts for the many Masonic functions he attended. “It does not matter what Masonic function Al is involved with, she is always ready to cook up something,” Bro. Robert C. Briggs, District Deputy Grand Master of District 58, said. She also helps at lodge events, does the lodge’s housekeeping chores and supports her husband by doing work that often goes unnoticed by others.

For Peggy Pine, wife of Bro. Mark Pine, P.M., Secretary, Hiram Lodge No. 616, Altoona, if there’s a function that involves serving food, she has usually prepared the fare. She has cooked meals for stated meetings for eight years and the Regional School of Instruction three

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times. Peggy ran a seven-week fish dinner fund raiser for the lodge, and will prepare a roast beef dinner for the regional One Day Masonic Journey. Sometimes, she even enlists the help of her two grandchildren, MyKenzie and Mason.

She also stands with Bro. Pine in his secretarial responsibilities by helping behind the scenes labeling and sealing monthly notices and taking them to the bulk mail center. “I can’t say how much I appreciate my wife’s help,” Bro. Pine said.

Masonic Partnerships Enhance Impact

The members of the Morning Light Chapter No. 312, O.E.S., are an integral part of all the activities W. K. Bray Lodge No. 410, Hatboro, organizes. They cook and serve meals for stated meetings and coordinate activity tables for children during pancake breakfasts. W. K. Bray Lodge, in turn, helps Morning Light Chapter with its many benevolent activities. “This close association has precluded the need for our brothers to encourage our wives to assist in structuring and running our events; and as a result, they instead get to enjoy the activities rather than having to work them,” Bro. Luis Ramon Lasa, W.M., said.

Clare Hare, Past Matron, and Nancy Schlaver, Past Matron and Past Secretary, are a happy addition to the lodge activities. “These two ladies are a constant presence in our lodge, and their untiring support is reflective of the close association that exists between the ladies of the chapter and our lodge,” Bro. Lasa said.

Jan Harms, wife of Bro. Douglas Harms, P.M., Secretary, Perseverance Lodge No. 21, Harrisburg, and member of the O.E.S., is the Chapter Advisor for Pilgrim Chapter of DeMolay and event coordinator for the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. She works behind the scenes at lodge events, banquets and programs held on the campus and beyond. Her skills and connections are instrumental in involving the Masonic youth groups with the lodges in Region 2.

Judi Walsh, Greater Johnstown Chapter No. 183, O.E.S., has worked tirelessly to help revive the Johnstown Chapter, Rainbow for Girls, from peril of dissolution to a vital and growing group. In addition to ritual education, Judi and many of her O.E.S. sisters have organized craft activities, Christmas caroling at a local retirement community and beautification projects for the Johnstown Temple. While planning projects, the ladies strive to weave the various Masonic groups’ activities together.

One of the most impressive visible examples of the ladies’ support was at the flag raising and rededication at the Johnstown Masonic Temple.

Not only were brethren from the various Masonic organizations represented in their regalia, but a proud contingent of O.E.S., Rainbow for Girls and Beauceant ladies were present to celebrate.

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Building the Fraternity through Youth

Becky Leidig and her husband, Bro. Jess A. Leidig III, George Washington Lodge No. 143, Chambersburg, as well as Jeanine Larkin, wife of Bro. Michael Larkin, Steelton-Swatara Lodge No. 775, Steelton, and District Youth Chairman for the 2nd Masonic District, are extremely dedicated to their local Masonic youth groups. They go out of their way to help with anything that needs to be planned, served, achieved or finished. In Elizabethtown, Deb Vanek, wife of Bro. Greg Vanek, Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, stepped up to become the Chapter Advisor for Elizabethtown Chapter of DeMolay because no man was available.

Because of her career, Sandy Lewis, secretary to the assistant principal in the Franklin Area School District, understands children need suitable activities to help them develop into responsible adults. “Growing up, I found the Masonic family was very special,” she said.

Sandy now belongs to Morris Chapter No. 14, Oil City, O.E.S. As the Mother Advisor for Rainbow Assembly No. 19, Franklin, she has worked diligently to help the girls develop fraternal love and values. The assembly serves meals for Masonic lodges and Eastern Star chapters, makes lap quilts for nursing home residents and shut-ins, volunteers at the humane society and local nursing homes, and will help with the Cruz 4 Kids Car Show in Erie to benefit the Shriners’ Hospitals.

In addition, Sandy is working with Petrolia Lodge No. 363, Oil City; Myrtle Lodge No. 316, Franklin; and Masons from nearby lodges to constitute a DeMolay chapter. A board has been assembled, and at least two young men have an interest in joining. Sandy hopes to get the chapter up and running this fall.

Grand Lodge Staff Support

Carole Alfe, Masonic Library and Museum store manager for four and a half years, expanded the store, purchases merchandise and maintains a webstore. Because she meets visitors in the shop, she has become an unofficial “tour guide” for the city of Philadelphia.

MaryAnn Austin, administrative assistant, has been employed by the Grand Lodge for five years. She supports the Grand Master, Grand Secretary and others. She is the go-to person for Masonic Education supplies and for business reimbursements.

Donna Brett, a 20-year employee, is the staff accountant for Grand Lodge and the Masonic Library and Museum.

Cathy Giaimo, assistant librarian in the Masonic Library and Museum for 15 years, sends books requested through the Library’s on-line catalog, answers visitors’ questions, assists researchers and keeps the on-line catalog

Flag raising at the Johnstown Masonic Temple

Peggy Pine with her grandchildren, MyKenzie and Mason

Employees of the Masonic Temple – first row, left-right: Donna Brett, Glenys Waldman, Sandi Saba, Marie Wambold and Shenghua Kang; second row, left-right: MaryAnn Austin, Susan Rodriguez, Catherine Giaimo, Trish Oakley, Carole Alfe and Olga Mecznik

Tina Bloom as the Easter Bunny

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Sunny Kang has been the distribution clerk for three years. She sends and receives mail deliveries, assists with mass mailings and educational material and helps the Grand Secretary.

Marge Lodek has worked for the Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter of Pennsylvania for more than 30 years at the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia.

Olga Mecznik, executive assistant for almost 30 years, keeps minutes for the Grand Lodge Communications and other meetings, updates publications, handles correspondences, assists the Grand Secretary and conducts membership research.

Trish Oakley, administrative assistant to the building superintendent for 13 ½ years, assists with the daily staffing and operation of the Temple. She is on call 24/7 when the superintendent is not available.

Susan J. Rodriguez, who has worked for the Grand Lodge for 23 years, is the auditor.

She reviews the financial data from lodges and trustees for compliance with various governing

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

boards.

The administrative assistant to the Grand Master, Sandi Saba, has worked at the Masonic Temple for 11 years. She is responsible for the Grand Master’s e-mail, event and travel schedules, correspondence to other jurisdictions and management of Masonic certificates.

Glenys A. Waldman, senior research librarian and employee for 24 years, answers a variety of questions for Masons and curious visitors. She also writes lodge histories, catalogues printed materials and does some translating.

Marie Wambold, senior administrative assistant, works with lodge secretaries on membership records and advice on Masonic law.

Jan Harms with Jarrid Baker, grandson of R.W. Deputy Grand Master Jay W. Smith.

To all of the ladies of the Masonic fraternity – listed and unlisted – we end with the words of Bro. William J. Huston, District Deputy Grand Master of District 41: “Our heartfelt thanks is the very least that we can offer to those who not only share the love and values of Freemasonry in their hearts, but also are indispensable in our efforts to help our great fraternity thrive and grow!”

Looking Back, with Joy Some day you’re going to be sitting on the edge of your bed, looking back at a lifetime. The things that are important to you will emerge.

You know most of them now. Marriage.

Family. Faith. Friendships. Work. Financial success. Your associations, such as Freemasonry.

Other less tangible things – values – will emerge. Like the love you labored to give to your family. The integrity you strove to uphold in everything you did. How you treated your fellow human beings.

And a few regrets might even surface. Nobody bats 1.000.

Your lifetime, of course, is the template for your Will. Each important thing in your lifetime has a place in your parting statement to the world.

In this parting statement, money is the tool you use to articulate what is important to you. It is also the means to try to strengthen these important things so that they continue in the world.

This is actually where Will planning begins.

Make a list of who and what has been important to you. Then allocate to each item on this list its fair share of your ending capital. Making this list is often a joyful exercise, and allocating shares to the items can bring much satisfaction.

If Freemasonry is one of these important things, or any other charity for that matter, the Office of Gift Planning can provide information

to guide the inclusion of Masonic Charities, or another charity, in your Will.

If you plan to include Masonic Charities in your Will, Gift Planning staff in some cases may offer preliminary technical assistance to facilitate working with your lawyer.

Please contact the Office of Gift Planning at (800) 599-6454 to ask questions or obtain information, or mail in the Reply Form below.

Will preparation can be a matter of looking back, with joy.

Complete and mail this form to: Office of Gift Planning Masonic Charities, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022 Telephone: (800) 599-6454  I am planning or considering a bequest to Masonic Charities. Please call me regarding preliminary assistance in planning my estate.  I already have included Masonic Charities in my estate plan. Please let me know the benefits, including membership in the Franklin Legacy Society.

Name_________________________________ Address_______________________________ Phone________________________________ E-mail ________________________________

LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

Random Acts of Kindness Random Acts of Kindness “fever” is spreading, as brethrens’ wives and children step up to help society. In some instances, individuals seek out ways to assist others, but often, a seeming stranger appears in quiet need of a helping hand. It may be a stranded motorist, a hungry family or a sick hospital patient all waiting for a hero or unassuming angel. Masons and their families are making a big difference in their communities, one act a time.

You can record your good deeds on the Random Acts of Kindness Registry at www.pagrandlodge.org/rak. 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. 

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A Walk in the Park Bro. Andrew Shecktor, Knapp Lodge No. 462, Berwick, and his daughter went into a local park loaded with bags and picked up all the trash. They even split out the recycling and took it to a recycling center located in the park.

“The fellow [at the center] was amazed that we took the time to do this, and offered to take the trash as well as the recycling,” Bro. Shecktor said. “Now there is a group that has formed to maintain this, following in our footsteps, and my daughter has learned a wonderful lesson in kindness and humility.” 

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Angels On Wheels Bro. Richard R. Reimer, P.M., Portage Lodge No. 220, Hollidaysburg, and his wife, Bonnie, run a service for the First United Methodist Church called Angels On Wheels. Started two years ago through a system of volunteers, the program provides transportation for members of the church to and from appointments – physical, dental, visual, cancer treatment, etc. Drivers even offer a “third” ear for those who need another person to listen to a doctor’s instructions. On average, about five to eight people request the service each month. The rides are always provided free of charge for the patient, with the volunteer driver covering the cost of gas.

“We have seen the need to serve members of our congregation who either have no immediate families to see to their transportation needs or have families who are working during the day and are not able to provide transportation,” Bro. Reimer said. “We often stay very busy and have developed a number of very positive relationships. Our church and our community are very important to us.”

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Giving Couples a Head Start in Life Bro. Daniel J. Richmond, Richard Vaux-Ivanhoe Lodge No. 384, Philadelphia, and his wife, Maryjane, volunteer to conduct Pre-Cana sessions for engaged couples who are planning to be married at their church each year. This is a marriage requirement for couples conducted twice a year, usually during the spring and fall season. The Richmonds also facilitate a class on marriage communications.

“We have met approximately 800 couples over the past 20 years,” he said. “We enjoy meeting young couples and sharing our experiences and lessons with them … to assist them with some of the challenges they may encounter in their married life. Also, we believe it strengthens our relationship and helps us learn from their experiences.” 

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A Heartwarming Mission Bro. Theodore D. Zinn, Sr., Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, Harrisburg; his wife, Tara; his daughter, Jesi, age 18; and his sons, T.J., 16, and Charlie, 12, volunteer for mobile missions at the Bethesda Mission, a homeless shelter in Harrisburg. Jesi and T.J. worked with the mission through their church’s youth group and inspired the whole family to help.

“It is humbling to travel the city at night giving food and clothing to the folks on the street,” he said. “We have gained a love for all people no matter [their] social standing, race, religious background, etc., and a deep appreciation for the life that God has provided for us. We talk often about life experiences and have grown closer through quality family time spent serving others. We are thankful for all in our lives and this great fraternity called Freemasonry.”

Spreading their love even further, Jesi and T.J. went on a mission trip to an orphanage in Mexico this summer. 

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Left-right: Bros. William L. Bensing, P.M.; George C. Quickel (on ladder); Kevin L. Frymyer, P.M.; Norman A. Wangman, P.M.; John F. Harley, P.M.; Eugene R. Gockley; Sean B. O’Hanlon; and Denton L. Miller, sitting with his dog, “Misty.”

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RAK Across State Lines Bro. and Dr. Ishwer Bharwani, P.M., Lawrence Lodge No. 708, Erie, is an attending physician at the Erie VA Medical Center.

Upon learning Bro. Bharwani was a Mason, the family of a terminally ill patient asked if he could conduct a 50-year Service Emblem presentation for their loved one. The patient is a member of a New York Masonic lodge, but Bro. Bharwani did not hesitate to accommodate the family’s wish.

With the assistance of Bro. Richard N. Fitzsimmons, District Deputy Grand Master of District 24, Bro. Bharwani and Bro. Dana Perry, P.M., Lawrence Lodge No. 708, and two members of Peacock Lodge No. 696, Mayville, N.Y., presented Bro. Edwin Preston Seaton, Peacock Lodge No. 696, with a 50-year Masonic Service Apron and a 50-year Masonic Service Emblem recognizing his 50-year membership in the Masonic fraternity on May 12.

Bro. Seaton passed away May 23.

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Lending a Hand A recent medical problem caused Bro. Denton L. Miller, Ephrata Lodge No. 665, the loss of his left leg, below the knee. On a sunny day in May, seven of Bro. Miller’s brother Masons volunteered to stain his deck, and completed the job in just three hours.

Everyone enjoyed the comradeship and the opportunity to lend a hand.

Left-right: Bros. Ishwer Bharwani, P.M., and Dana R. Perry, P.M., both of Lawrence Lodge No. 708; Bros. James Wilcox, P.M., and Larry King, P.M., both of Peacock Lodge No. 696; Richard N. Fitzsimmons, D.D.G.M. of District 24; and (in front) Bro. Edwin Preston Seaton, Peacock Lodge No. 696, N.Y.

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Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

Lodge Community Service Initiatives Warmer weather means more time for outdoor activities, including lodge community service initiatives. In between the numerous rainy days of spring, lodge members found time to help their friends and neighbors while taking in some sunshine.       

Protecting Wolves and Bears Members and friends of Ephrata Lodge No. 665 organized a community fund raising project in support of a local Boy Scout camp. The J. Edward Mack Scout Reservation is engaged in a project to make overnight camping a little less intimidating for the youngest campers.

The project involves building “pods” which link tents into a common platform, enabling the younger Wolves (2nd graders) and Bears (3rd graders) to feel more secure on their first overnight outings.

Lodge members rented the High Sports family fun center in Lititz for a day at a reasonable rate and collected all the money from the gate in support of the Boy Scout project. High Sports not only has a beautiful mini-golf course, but also go-karts, a golf driving range and batting cages. There was something for everybody.

Volunteers publicized the event, prepared food for sale and held a Masonic CHIP event.

At the end of the day, the lodge raised almost $3,000 for the Boy Scout camp and demonstrated Freemasonry is an active part of the community.

The event was so successful, they reserved the same weekend date for next year for a combined community fund raiser and lodge spring picnic.

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Reel Fun for a Good Cause On April 30, Zeredatha Lodge No. 451, York, and the Mortar Committee of the Masonic Center of York (consisting of all the Masonic groups that meet at the center) sponsored a fishing derby for underprivileged children in the local community.

The event was held at the Starview Sportsmen’s Association, a beautiful 200acre site located outside Mt. Wolf, Pa., with a private reserve of forests and a fishing pond for hunters and fishermen. The association graciously provided their facility for the event and had the large pond stocked with hungry

trout. Nearly 30 children, ranging from ages 6 to 12, arrived by bus at 9 a.m. Rules for the event were explained, and then the fun began.

Each child was given a fishing rod and accompanied by a Mason. Soon, with the help of the brethren, the kids were hauling in fish left and right. After a lunch break provided by the Mortar Committee, fishing resumed until every child had caught a fish. The day ended with a visit from “Bob the Critter Guy,” a local celebrity who brought a variety of animals, snakes, lizards and spiders for the children to see and hold. At noon, the children departed, taking with them their fish, their own personal fishing rod and memories of a day they won’t soon forget.       

A Community Canteen The Upper Darby Township Square Club (UDTSC) recently purchased a motor home and converted it into a canteen which they use to provide food and refreshments to fire and police departments at multi-alarm fires, disasters, etc., in Upper Darby. Members also have used the canteen for Masonic CHIP events and various parades to promote good Masonic relations. Grants from the State of Pennsylvania covered funding for the canteen, so there is no charge for services, but donations are welcomed.

The UDTSC was founded in 1977, and has been successful in providing charity and aid to people in need within Delaware County, as well as assistance to several youth organizations in the area. The UDTSC has sponsored Little League and American baseball teams. In addition, each year they give a scholarship, in memory of Bro. Bob and Ann Meslin, Springfield-Hanby Lodge No. 767, to a student at Upper Darby High School who has been active in community affairs projects.

Members of the UDTSC come from different lodges in the area, but are mostly from the 36th Masonic District. New members are welcome. Meetings are held the first Thursday of the month and include dinner and interesting speakers.       

Westfield Lodge Saves Westfield Days Like many small towns in Pennsylvania, the “community” of Westfield constantly struggles to stay afloat with people traveling further for work, spending more time away from home and local family shops closing down as a culture of “big box” stores and shopping malls move into town. Sometimes, it is the most obscure things

which suffer the greatest when this happens.

When the Westfield Chamber of Commerce disbanded, many organizations which relied on Chamber of Commerce-sponsored events like “Westfield Days,” to help meet their annual fund raising goals, assumed yet another community event had gone by the wayside.

As soon as it was confirmed that no organization was willing to take over the coordination of Westfield Days, the members of Westfield Lodge No. 477 rose to the occasion to pick up where others left off. In line with the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance, the lodge went to work to earn its place at the forefront of its community by organizing this successful event for the second year in a row.

Westfield Days events include a parade, chicken barbecue, other various food vendors, raffles, craft sales, live music, a lodge building open house, car show, basketball and softball tournaments, games and inflatables for the children. One of the star attractions in last year’s parade returned this year: a horse and carriage provided by a brother of Westfield Lodge and his wife, which allowed even the oldest brothers of the lodge to participate in the parade.

A majority of the proceeds generated from this year’s events, like last year’s, will be donated back into the community. In addition, the lodge will use certain designated fund raising to offset the costs associated with its members’ trip to the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania in October.

The trip includes a tour and extra meeting of the lodge, as well as shopping for the ladies, a dinner cruise on the mighty Delaware River and overnight accommodations in the City of Brotherly Love.       

Year-long Community Service Manoquesy Lodge No. 413, located in Bath, the heart of eastern Pennsylvania’s cement belt, has had a busy year committed to helping their community. The lodge devoted the first half of 2011 to collecting money for a local no-kill animal shelter, providing them with a monetary donation and much needed items to help them continue their charitable operation. For the second half of the year, they will collect money for a local food bank, in

LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

hopes of bringing some holiday relief to those less fortunate.

In March, with the assistance of Bro. Ed Budman, Lodge No. 2, Philadelphia, from the Masonic Blood Club, the lodge held their first annual blood drive. It proved to be quite successful, providing Miller-Keystone Blood Center with 28 usable pints of blood. Funds raised during this event were donated to the Shriners Hospitals for Children. In conjunction with this event, members held an open house, inviting the community to see who Masons are and what they do.

Through a CHIP event held in April, 51 children were registered. In September, the lodge will sell grilled soft pretzels at Bath Community Days and hold their 2nd Annual Basket Bingo fund raiser. On Oct. 9, members will find themselves in uncharted territory as they host their first golf tournament in Bath.

Sponsors and teams are already lining up.

December is always a special time as the lodge enjoys the pleasure of having Santa as their guest at a local day care center, as well as at a holiday party held at the lodge for members’ families and the community.

The local newspaper, “The Home News,” frequently publicizes Manoquesy Lodge’s activities and events, keeping its name in the forefront of the community. The newspaper is highly involved in the planning and implementation of a new community playground, and the lodge

Manoquesy Lodge’s social hall set up for a blood drive. intends to be right at its shoulder, providing whatever assistance and labor its needs.

Manoquesy Lodge No. 413 works hard to keep members active and to serve the community. They have registered for the Masonic Service Association’s Mark Twain Award. The award recognizes lodges that have demonstrated exemplary work in constructing a positive Masonic identity within the lodge and for the local community.

“Our efforts strive to make Freemasonry in general, and Manoquesy Lodge in particular, a vital part of our members’ lives and a force in our community,” Bro. Peter Gigliotti, W.M., said.

“The more men know of our great fraternity, the more they will want to be a part of it.”

The Gift of Life The 1st Masonic District held its semiannual blood drive on June 4 at two locations: the Donegal Masonic Center and the Lancaster Masonic Center. The Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank once again handled all the details of collecting the blood from the approximately 170 Masonic members, family and friends who donated.

The chairman of the blood drive, Bro. Ray Greiner, P.M., Oasis Lodge No. 416, Edinboro, and his committee decided to add a little extra bonus for participating members in the 1st Masonic District by designing a lapel pin (pictured above) to give each donor. Bro. Ronald Good, a 50-year member of Ephrata Lodge No. 665, donated the funds to cover the cost of the pins.

The money raised from the blood drive was donated to the Lancaster Children’s Dyslexia Center. The district will host another drive at the same locations on Oct. 8. For more information or to schedule an appointment, go to www. firstmasonic.org and click on “Blood Drive Register Here.”

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Congratulations to...

SERVICE AWARD On March 21, at the official visit of Armstrong Lodge No. 239, Freeport, R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon directed Bro. Roger A. Johnson, District Deputy Grand Master of the 27th District, to present the prestigious Masonic Service Award Emblem to Bro. James M. Elliot. The resident artificer of the 27th District, Bro. Elliot was honored in the presence of his brethren, his family and friends for many hours over the years in plying his rare craft to benefit the fraternity.

Bro. Elliott’s copper Paul Revere-style Masonic candle lamps are displayed around the world, including in The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania. He has honored all branches of the military, POWs and MIAs, by creating copper items to honor those who have served. Standing with Bro. James Elliot (middle) are Bros. Roger A. Johnson, District Deputy Grand Master of District 27, and Howard D. Berner, P.M., W.M., Armstrong Lodge No. 239.

MILITARY SURGEON HONORED Bro. and Maj. (Dr.) Kirk Hinkley, Bluestone Lodge No. 338, Hallstead, 81st Medical Operations Squadron, has been selected as the Air Education and Training Command Flight Surgeon of the Year. He now competes for the Air Force-level honor.

Bro. Hinkley was described in his nomination as a “can-do flight surgeon and superb clinician ... a trusted go-to officer for both deployed operations and home-station care.” Bro. Hinkley entered active duty in 2004 after earning a medical degree from the Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine.

LODGE HONORS VOLUNTEERS On March 12, Richard Vaux Lodge No. 454, Burgettstown, hosted an appreciation dinner to honor those who have gone above and beyond with their contributions and volunteering their time to the lodge. After dinner, the honorees were presented with their individual plaques. A separate plaque was made to hang in the lodge with the honorees’ names attached on individual nameplates. Each year, new volunteer honorees’ names will be added. Pictured, left-right with Worshipful Master Steven A. Floyd and District Deputy Grand Master James R. Flanigan (middle): are the honorees, Bros. David M. McCorrmick, P.M.; Eugene G. Painter, P.D.D.G.M.; James K. Anderson, P.M.; and Delores Demmack, cook, fund raising coordinator.

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LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

Masonic Influence in Central Pennsylvania In architecture, a keystone is the final piece placed during construction. The wedge-shaped piece positioned at the apex of a masonry arch locks all the stones into position, allowing the arch to bear weight. Just as the keystone is vital to the structure of a building, central Pennsylvania has been critical to the growth of the nation, as well as Pennsylvania Freemasonry.

One of the key battles of the Civil War – the Battle of Gettysburg – took place in the central portion of the state. Coal found in the region ignited America’s Industrial Revolution.

The area is home to the state capital, as well as more than 65 Masonic lodges across 10 counties.

Adams County

Adams County was created in 1800 and is named for John Adams, the second president of the United States. The largest producer of apples in Pennsylvania, the county earned the nickname “Apple Capital, USA.” James Gettys, the son of early settler Samuel Gettys, laid out the town of Gettysburg. This quiet town changed forever when the Confederate and Union Armies marched into Adams County.

The first day of the Battle of Gettysburg was July 1, 1863.

Good Samaritan Lodge No. 336, Gettysburg, was constituted Feb. 23, 1860, and is a successor to Good Samaritan Lodge No. 200 (constituted Jan. 1, 1825), which officially vacated Feb. 6, 1837, after surrendering its warrant Dec. 4, 1832, for lack of attendance during the anti-Masonic era.

Members of Good Samaritan Lodge were involved in the Friend to Friend National Memorial Monument at the Gettysburg National Cemetery. The monument, heralding “Brotherhood Undivided,” depicts a mortally wounded Confederate Gen. and Bro. Lewis

A. Armistead entrusting his Masonic watch to Union Capt. and Bro. Henry Bingham with regrets and a final gesture of brotherhood. For his years of work on the monument, Bro. John Schwartz, P.M., received citations from the House of Representatives and the Senate “on behalf of the citizens of Gettysburg, Harrisburg, and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.”

The lodge’s 312 members currently meet in a building constructed by one its members in 1898. Their community involvement includes a very successful Masonic CHIP event they host every year in Fairfield and scholarships awarded to local children. They also help the local Job’s Daughters Bethel and sponsor a softball team along with Hebron Lodge No. 465.

Berks County

Berks County was created in 1752 and is named for Berkshire, England. An area of both light and heavy industry, the completion of a canal system in 1828 and the extension of the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad in 1838 further enhanced the county’s influence.

Reading, the county seat, is named for Berkshire’s county town, the birthplace of William Penn.

Chandler Lodge No. 227, West Reading, was constituted May 4, 1848. It is named for R.W.P.G.M. Joseph Ripley Chandler (1841-1842).

The lodge formerly did its work in German for the benefit of its many German-speaking brothers.

After 1848, so many Germans arrived, it became necessary to form a German-speaking lodge.

Chandler Lodge recommended the granting of a Warrant to the new Teutonia Lodge No. 367 in 1866. Chandler Lodge’s membership of around 367 brethren meets in the Masonic Center in West Reading.

Other lodges which meet at the center include: Lodge No. 62, constituted April 9, 1794; St. John’s

Lodge No. 435, constituted March 1, 1869; Reading Lodge No. 549, constituted Dec. 28, 1876; Teutonia Lodge No. 637, constituted June 5, 1905; and Isaac Hiester Lodge No. 660, constituted Oct. 17, 1908.

Chandler Lodge participates in the annual Reading Hospital garden party and Reading Fair, selling kabobs and introducing people to Masonic District 7. At the fair, they give food to military service members free of charge.

Members are currently working on building a portable mini golf course for the Children’s Home of Reading.

Beginning in 2011, during their stated meeting, Bro. Richard Parshley, W.M., provides time for everyone meets and greets one another while the Junior Warden hands out 50/50 tickets. At the end of the meeting, a number is pulled and the winner chooses a charity which will receive a $100 donation. Chosen charities have included the American Red Cross, U.S.O. and Salvation Army.

“It’s a charitable thing we’re trying to do while getting our name out there,” Lodge Secretary Bro. John Tumolo, P.M., said. “Out of all things I’ve done in my life - the [Masonic] fraternity is the one thing that means the most.

Once you start to get involved, it sweeps you up and you look for things to volunteer for. It’s a feeling I get from nothing else.”

Cumberland County

Cumberland County, created in 1750, is named for a maritime county in England.

“Cumberland” comes from the Keltic, “Kimbriland,” after tribes who once inhabited the area. Fertile soil and a good water supply led to farming and early industrial power.

Mechanicsburg was incorporated as a borough in 1828 and is named for the many mechanics who lived there and worked in foundry and machine shops.

Eureka Lodge No. 302, Mechanicsburg, was constituted Sept. 23, 1856. With around 600 members and at 155 years old, the lodge has had very few repeat Worshipful Masters.

They support and encourage other Masonic groups to meet in their building, including Job’s Daughters and the Daughters of the Nile.

In past years, on Jubilee Day, which gathers an estimated crowd of 70,000, the lodge has held a Masonic CHIP event. Members also donate money toward items for the community, such as an AED device, and in support of Masonic Youth Group activities.

“I’m surrounded by men of good character who are out there for the betterment of the community and themselves,” Lodge Secretary Bro. William McQuade, P.M., said. “They are good role models for my sons as they grow.”

Cumberland Valley Lodge No. 315, Shippensburg

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Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

Also in Cumberland County, Shippensburg received its name from Edward Shippen, who founded and laid out the town. It was incorporated as a borough in 1819. Furniture factories, engine and pump works, and other industrial works served as early economic bases.

Cumberland Valley Lodge No. 315, Shippensburg, was constituted Feb. 18, 1858, and is a successor to Silensia Lodge No. 198 (constituted Feb. 17, 1825), which officially vacated Feb. 6, 1837 for lack of attendance during the anti-Masonic era. The lodge is home to Bros. Thomas Jackson, R.W.P.G.S.; Jeffrey W. Coy, R.W.G.T.; and Bro. S. Eugene Herritt, P.M., District Deputy Grand Master for District 3.

The lodge has around 327 members. The membership regularly hosts picnics and a ladies night and sponsors a traveling gavel within the district which appears at a different lodge’s stated meeting each month.

Dauphin County, established in 1785, was named in honor of the title of the eldest son of the King of France, who came to the aid of the colonies during the American Revolution.

John Harris, Sr., one of the emigrants from England accompanying William Penn, set up trading posts with the Native Americans in the area. He established the first ferry across the Susquehanna River which became so popular, the name of the area changed from its Native American name of Paxtang to Harris’ Ferry. His son, John Harris, Jr., later established Harrisburg, which was named the state capital in 1812.

Perseverance Lodge No. 21, Harrisburg, originally constituted Nov. 10, 1779, was reconstituted March 15, 1787, after the independence of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania from the Grand Lodge of England in 1786. At that time, it was not the custom to name a lodge other than with a number, but members felt passionate about designating their beloved organization’s lodge. They unanimously chose the name “Perseverance” on June 24, 1803.

With approximately 650 members, the lodge has been a leader in the local community over the last 200 years. In conjunction with the Order of DeMolay, they participate in a peanut brittle fund raiser, community food drive and clothing drive for the Ronald McDonald House.

Several individual members serve as DeMolay chapter advisors.

“The more we do with youth, the less chance we’ll hear about them on the evening news,” Lodge Secretary Bro. Douglas Harms, P.M., said. “It’s our chance to help mold future leaders. We take strong pride in helping all youth groups - financially and physically.”

primarily an agricultural area, although the economy also relies on manufacturing of industrial machinery and textiles. Throughout the Civil War, the surrounding Cumberland Valley was the scene of three major Confederate cavalry raids, the Gettysburg Campaign in 1863, and 19 separate military engagements.

Joseph and Benjamin Chambers officially founded Chambersburg in 1764. The town was a strategic supply and hospital center for the Union Army. Confederate Generals Robert E. Lee and A. P. Hill met in the center of town and decided to proceed to Gettysburg.

The first lodge in Chambersburg, Lodge No. 79 (constituted April 3, 1800), was vacated April 4, 1814. George Washington Lodge No. 143, Chambersburg, was constituted April 23, 1816. Members meet in the Chambersburg Masonic Temple, which carries two historical distinctions: it is the only building left standing after the burning of Chambersburg during the Civil War, and it is the oldest Masonic building in the state of Pennsylvania still used for Masonic purposes only. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

In 1864, Confederate Gen. Jubal Early marched into Chambersburg and demanded $100,000 in gold or $500,000 in U.S. currency or he would burn the town. The ransom was not paid, and he burned the town, resulting in an estimated $1.7 million in damage. The buildings in the half block where the Masonic Temple stands were unharmed. According to fairly-well authenticated legend, a Confederate officer of high rank recognized the character of the Masonic Temple. He posted guards nearby who prevented any damage to the Temple and such nearby buildings.

The lodge and its 652 members were recently involved in a 21-day Flag Retreat in which a different organization raises and retreats a flag every day until the Fourth of July, when the community gathers for fireworks. The brethren also support two Boy Scout troops, offering use of their building for meetings and to host a monthly pancake breakfast.

“It’s a good way to get involved in the community, and a good solid activity for children,” Lodge Secretary Bro. John Cook, P.M., said.

“We spend a lot of time developing the youth in Boy Scouts and DeMolay, giving them positive role models.

“A lot of founding fathers of the community have belonged here. We have a long, proud history and tradition of being active in the community and of solid Masonry. We’re coming up on our 200th anniversary, which is a major achievement.

When you get involved in something good, and it’s perceived as good, more people want to get involved.”

Franklin County

Lancaster County

Dauphin County

Named for Bro. Benjamin Franklin, Franklin County was created in 1784. The county was

Lancaster County was created in 1729 and is named for the Shire of Lancaster (Lancashire),

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George Washington Lodge No. 143, Chambersburg

Eureka Lodge No. 302, Mechanicsburg

Masonic Center of York

Lancaster Masonic Center

Good Samaritan Lodge No. 336, Gettysburg

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LODGE AND DISTRICT England. In addition to being one of the most fertile regions in the country, Lancaster is also home to the Philadelphia and Lancaster Turnpike, the first macadamized road in the country, built in 1792-1794. Also known as U.S. Route 30, it stretches from coast to coast.

Governor and Bro. James Hamilton, who served as Grand Master in 1735, laid out Lancaster (city), and it was incorporated in 1818. Lancaster briefly served as the capital of the United States, when Congress stopped there in September 1777 for one session before moving onto York.

Lodge No. 43, Lancaster, was constituted Sept. 14, 1785. Previously, Lodge No. 9 was located in Lancaster, but surrendered its Warrant in 1779, presumably because of Patriot members serving in the Revolutionary War. The Warrant was re-granted to a number of brethren in Philadelphia on July 27, 1780, to form Lodge No. 9 in its current location. In 2003, Andrew H. Hershey Lodge No. 764 merged with Lodge No. 43.

Distinguished members include President and Bro. James Buchanan (raised in 1817, Worshipful Master 1822-1823, the state’s first District Deputy Grand Master and U.S. president 1857-1861) and Bro. John Bannister Gibson, who served as R.W. Grand Master (1824) and Chief Justice of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court (1838-1851). The success of the Anti-Masonic Party from 1828 to 1843 resulted in the closing of all lodges in Lancaster County except Lodge No. 43 and Lodge No. 156, Quarryville – a fact the lodge is still very proud of, according to Lodge Secretary Bro. George Sheldon.

“The lodge’s history … it’s just really neat.

You don’t think of it when you join, but the fact that I’m a member of a lodge that the only president from Pennsylvania was a member of, it’s really cool,” he said. “It’s crazy to think 226 years ago, a group of guys got together and formed this lodge. Today, we’re working to guarantee the lodge will continue to be here.”

The lodge, with a membership of 675, actively supports the Masonic Charities and Big Brothers Big Sisters. They participate in the organization’s Bowl for Kids’ Sake and donate money. Members also help maintain local parks and sponsor highway clean up.

Lamberton Lodge No. 476, Lancaster, constituted June 23, 1870, was named for Bro. Robert Alexander Lamberton, who served as R.W. Grand Master (1870-1871).

The lodge, and its 371 members, focuses on maintaining a positive, fun atmosphere. At 28 years old, the lodge’s Worshipful Master is one of the youngest in the state.

“About 10 years ago, the lodge started encouraging fathers to bring in sons and making sure young members were serving in chairs,” Bro. John-Paul W. Meyer, W.M., said. “I was brought in by a friend just out of college. We have a great core group of officers,

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

and all the members are willing to help out when you need it. We encourage a general atmosphere of belonging, of good character men who help in the community and their fellow brethren as well.”

Lodge members are coordinating a golf outing to support the Children’s Dyslexia Center in Lancaster. They recently participated in a blood drive and are hosting an open house this summer.

“We want to make ourselves more visible and show we’re a charitable organization with good people who have a good time,” Bro. Meyer said. “We’re all working together to lead the lodge in a good direction.”

York County

York County was formed in 1749 and is named either for the Duke of York, an early patron of the Penn family, or for the city and shire of York in England. The state’s first Civil War battle was fought in the county in 1863.

Mostly agricultural in the nineteenth century, after World War II, the county concentrated on increasing industrialization.

The city of York was incorporated as a borough in 1887. The Continental Congress met in York from September 1777 to June 1778, during which time they drafted the Articles of the Confederation. The required two-thirds of the colonies ratified the Articles in 1781, establishing the United States of America two years before it won independence from England.

Zeredatha Lodge No. 451, York, was constituted Dec. 7, 1869. With more than 500 members, the lodge is able to actively contribute to its community. They host two chicken barbecues and yard sales a year, with proceeds going to the Children’s Home of York. They also donate chicken dinners to on-duty firefighters, police departments and other local care homes, and coordinate a free breakfast for members of the Masonic Center of York (home to Zeredatha Lodge, White Rose Lodge No. 706, York Lodge No. 226, Job’s Daughters Bethel #1 and an Order of Eastern Star chapter), family and friends. In 2011, members became active in Habitat for Humanity and held a fishing derby to raise money for local underprivileged children.

“Whenever we have an event … the members will always rally in support. We never have to worry about coverage or that we won’t have enough of members to help!” Bro. Scott Fair, P.M., said.

The lodge also formed the Mortar Committee, which consists of all the Masonic groups that meet at the Masonic Center of York.

“We started this committee to get everyone involved, to do good will in our local community, and while doing this, to spark an interest in the Masonic fraternity,” Bro. Fair said.

Other Lodges & Constitution Dates in Central Pennsylvania Adams County Hebron Lodge No. 465.......................... 1870 Berks County Williamson Lodge No. 307................... 1857 Huguenot Lodge. No. 377..................... 1866 Vaux Lodge No. 406............................. 1868 Union Lodge No. 479............................ 1870 Boyerstown Lodge No. 741.................... 1925 Cumberland County Cumberland Star Lodge No. 197.......... 1825 St. John’s Lodge No. 260....................... 1852 Big Spring Lodge No. 361..................... 1865 West Shore Lodge No. 681.................... 1915 Lowther Manor Lodge No. 781............. 1957 Dauphin County Mount Lebanon Lodge No. 226............ 1848 Susquehanna Lodge No. 364................ 1866 Robert Burns Lodge No. 464................ 1870 Prince Edwin-Spring Creek Lodge No. 486............................................. 1871 Ashlar Lodge No. 570........................... 1887 Harrisburg Lodge No. 629..................... 1903 Brownstone Lodge No. 666................... 1910 William S. Snyder Lodge No. 756......... 1947 Steelton-Swatara Lodge No. 775........... 1954 Franklin County Orrstown Lodge No. 262...................... 1852 Mount Pisgah Lodge No. 443............... 1869 Acacia Lodge No. 586........................... 1891 Gen. James Chambers Lodge No. 801... 1964 Lancaster County Washington Lodge No. 156.................. 1818 Columbia Lodge No. 286...................... 1854 Christiana Lodge No. 417..................... 1868 Charles M. Howell Lodge No. 496........ 1871 Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551........... 1877 Manheim Lodge No. 587...................... 1891 Ephrata Lodge No. 665......................... 1910 Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682...1915 Lebanon County Mount Olivet Lodge No. 704................ 1920 Perry County Adams Lodge No. 319........................... 1858 Perry Lodge No. 458.............................. 1870 Schuylkill County Cressona Lodge No. 222....................... 1846 Tamaqua Lodge No. 238....................... 1849 Swatara Lodge No. 267......................... 1853 Ashland Lodge No. 294........................ 1855 Mahanoy City Lodge No. 357............... 1865 Pine Grove Lodge No. 409.................... 1868 Frackville Lodge No. 737...................... 1925 York County York Lodge No. 266.............................. 1852 Patmos Lodge No. 348.......................... 1864 Shrewsbury Lodge No. 423................... 1868 Riverside Lodge No. 503....................... 1872 Red Lion Lodge No. 649.......................1906 Friendship Lodge No. 663..................... 1910 White Rose Lodge No. 706................... 1920

LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

Masonic Patriots Celebrate Presidents’ Day

by Learning More about Bro. James Buchanan

In 1880, Congress declared Feb. 22, George Washington’s birthday, a federal holiday. Since then, the third Monday in February has commonly become known as Presidents’ Day, honoring the lives and accomplishments of all U.S. presidents.

In addition to George Washington, 13 other presidents spanning the history of our country have also been Master Masons: James Monroe, Andrew Jackson, James Polk, James Buchanan, Andrew Johnson, James Garfield, William McKinley, Theodore Roosevelt, William Taft, Warren Harding, Franklin Roosevelt, Harry Truman and Gerald Ford.

Franklin County is the only location in Pennsylvania where a U.S. president was born.

On Feb, 20, many area Freemasons gathered at Buchanan’s Birthplace State Park in Cove Gap to honor President and Bro. James Buchanan.

James Buchanan, father of the president, purchased John Tom’s Trading Post, located at Larraby’s (now Cove Gap), in 1788 and renamed it Stoney Batter after the Buchanan home in North Ireland. After a wagon road was built across Cove Mountain early in the 19th century, the old trading post was no longer needed. Buchanan then moved the store to Mercersburg. President James Buchanan was born at Stoney Batter on April 23, 1791 and grew up in Mercersburg.

He later graduated from Dickinson College and became a lawyer in Lancaster. On Dec. 11, 1816, James Buchanan was initiated into Freemasonry and was made a Mason in Lodge No. 43, Lancaster. He became the Master of his lodge in 1822 and was appointed District Deputy Grand Master for the counties of Lancaster, Lebanon and York.

His political career began when he was elected to serve two terms as a Pennsylvania Assemblyman and rose to serve 10 years as a U.S. Congressman, 10 years as a Senator and four years as Secretary of the State. He then ran

for president and was inaugurated as the 15th U.S. President in 1857. His tenure as president was fraught with controversy surrounding the issues of states’ rights and slavery. Bro. Buchanan retired from the Presidency after one term in office and returned to his home in Lancaster, named Wheatland, where he later died on June 1, 1868.

After Bro. Buchanan’s death, his niece, Harriet Lane Johnston, made attempts to purchase his Stoney Batter homestead in Franklin County and build a monument for him. It was not until after her death, in 1906, that the provisions of her Will led to the purchase of this 18.5-acre parcel of land.

After an architectural firm in Baltimore designed the monument, it took the building of a small tramway to move the stone from the mountainside to the monument site and a crew of 35 men plus mules to build the pyramid, which is 38 feet square and 31 feet high. The inscription tablet, sill, seat and cap are constructed of 50 tons of hammered gray granite. The pyramid structure contains 250 tons of native stone and mortar. All the faces of the stone show the original weathered surface. The monument was completed in 1907.

In the Pennsylvania legislative session of 1911, authorization was given for the Commonwealth to accept the 18.5 acres of land and monument, and it was placed in the custody of what is known today as the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and managed as part of the Cowans Gap State Park Complex. It is now used for the public’s enjoyment.

The day before Presidents’ Day, DCNR Ranger Bro. James Sleighter, W.M., Orrstown Lodge No. 262, welcomed the Masons from Districts 3 and 34 who attended the Masonic wreath dedication at the James Buchanan birthplace monument. Having organized the

event, he was pleased with the attendance from the community during a walking tour of the park prior to the ceremony.

During the event, State Senator Richard Alloway II commented: “Our State Park system provides a vital role in the protection of our natural resources and provides so many great recreational opportunities for family times together. The Freemasons coming together today beautifully illustrates the true beliefs and freedoms that our founding fathers held so dear – to God, country, family and fellowship.

With the historical, environmental and economic significance of our state park system, along with the dedication of officers like Ranger Jim Sleighter and the employees of DCNR, it is very easy to see why the Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks is currently holding the ‘Best in the Nation’ Gold Medal Award.”

Masonic brothers from Districts 3 and 34 at the Buchanan Birthplace included: Samuel Cressler, Franklin County president of township supervisors for Southampton Township, Cumberland Valley Lodge No. 315, Shippensburg; Edward Belden, Trent Anderson, Bohdan Chang and Russell Smith, all of Cumberland Star Lodge No. 197, Carlisle; Franklin County Commissioner Robert Thomas, Mount Pisgah Lodge No. 443, Greencastle; Washington Township Supervisor Jeffrey Geesaman and Michael Ramsay, both of Acacia Lodge No. 586, Waynesboro; Senator Richard Alloway II, George Washington Lodge No. 143, Chambersburg; James Sleighter, Orrstown Lodge No. 262; S. Eugene Herritt, D.D.G.M. for the 3rd Masonic District; Robert Snyder II, D.D.G.M. for the 34th Masonic District; Duane Goodhart, Orrstown Lodge; Dennis McClanahan, Acacia Lodge; Brandon McEndree, George Washington Lodge; John Tritt, Orrstown Lodge; and Richard Rice and Keith Eshleman, Mount Pisgah Lodge.

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LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

“Retirees” School Expands Instruction

A group of Masons from the 50th District remains connected and sharpens their ritualistic skills throughout the summer, as well as all year round, by meeting every Thursday morning for Masonic instruction at the Rimrock Masonic Center in Bartonsville. Established primarily for officer development of Barger Lodge No. 325, Stroudsburg, members of all lodges of the 50th District are invited to attend.

Originally dubbed a “retirees school,” the group was started in 2008 by Bros. Constantine A. Gerfelder, P.M., and Joseph Zelez, P.M., both of Barger Lodge, who were Worshipful Master and Senior Warden at the time. They enlisted the help of Bro. Elwood E. Davidson, P.M., Pocono Lodge No. 780, Cresco, and Principal of the 50th District School of Instruction.

On average, six to eight brothers are in attendance on any given Thursday morning, with sometimes as many as 15. No longer just for retirees, members of all ages throughout the district attend, whether on a regular basis or occasionally as their time permits.

Generally, the group has no predetermined agenda but decides what work will be covered depending on who attends and who is working to become proficient in what. The sessions usually last two to three hours.

Since its inception, the group has assisted numerous members in becoming proficient in one or more degrees, and has assisted at least six in becoming proficient in all three degrees. Additionally, the group instructs in business of the lodge, election and installation of officers and examination of a visitor.

The group has built a great camaraderie among its attendees and has helped to significantly improve the working relationship among lodges in the district.

The 50th Masonic District also includes Portland Lodge No. 311, Manoquesy Lodge No. 413, Bath; Pen Argyl Lodge No. 594; Whitfield Lodge No. 622, Tatamy; and J. Simpson Africa Lodge No. 628, Stroudsburg.

Camaraderie & Celebration On May 4, at the stated meeting of Lake Erie Lodge No. 347, Girard, Bro. Lyell E. Cook, W.M.; Bro. Richard N. Fitzsimmons, District Deputy Grand Master for District 24; and members of the lodge were honored by a visit from the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Ohio, Bro. Bradford Goebel, and the Right Worshipful Grand Tyler of Ohio, Bro. Robert Hager. The meeting was preceded by the lodge’s annual “all you can eat” perch fish fry, enjoyed by 120 attendees.

The evening included 60-year Masonic Service presentations and honoring the Past Masters of the lodge.

Back row, left-right: Bros. D. Scott Green, P.M.; J. Robert Taylor, P.M., P.D.D.G.M.; Douglas J. Wright, P.M.; Richard A. DeArment, P.M.; John H. Downey, P.M.; David R. Strubel, P.M.; and Timothy A. Rocco, P.M. Front row, left-right: Robert L. Crowe, Sr., P.M.; Edward W. Steele, P.M.; Ohio R.W. Grand Tyler Robert Hager; Charles E. Hunzinger, P.M.; Richard B. Wheeler, P.M.; Howard E. Miller, P.M.; Lyell P. Cook, W.M.; Richard N. Fitzsimmons, D.D.G.M.; David P. Cassel, P.M.; Ohio M.W. Grand Master Bradford Goebel; Daniel P. Lemmon, P.M.; Richard A. Killian, P.M.; and John J. Contrucci, P.M.

Marines Confer Degree

Doric Lodge No. 630, Sewickley, conferred a Master Mason Degree on Staff Sergeant Dan Verduce on May 26. The conferral team was comprised of all former Marines.

Front row, left-right: Bros. Staff Sgt. Dan C. Verduce, candidate; Sgt. Robert K. Moisey; and 1st Sgt. Carl C. Curtis, all of Doric Lodge No. 630, Sewickley. Second row: Bros. Gunnery Sgt. Robert L. Knallay and Staff Sgt. Gary Farole, P.M., Lodge Education Officer, both of Doric Lodge No. 630. Third row: Bros. Sgt. Robert Wagner, Coraopolis Lodge No. 674; Sgt. Don J. MacMillian, Infinity Lodge No. 546, Verona; Sgt. Robert D. Stoops, Coraopolis Lodge No. 674; and Staff Sgt. Dick Wertz, St. James Lodge No. 457, Bridgewater.

Open House Yields Impressive Turnout

On May 28, Shamokin Lodge No. 255’s open house attracted some 68 visitors along with several brethren of lodges in other jurisdictions, members of the Eastern Star and former members of various Masonic youth groups. All expressed awe in the magnificent architecture and beauty of the lodge room, many inquiring into the origins of the symbols.

Bro. Augustus ‘Gus’ Hatzas, Chair of the Open House Lodge Community Welcome Committee, and Robert C. Briggs, P.M., District Deputy Grand Master for the 58th Masonic District, were impressed with the turn out, the depth of the inquiries and the image of Freemasonry shared with every guest.

Left-right: Bros. Robert C. Briggs, P.M., District Deputy Grand Master for the 58th Masonic District; Augustus ‘Gus’ Hatzas, P.M.; and guest Charles Wesley Parrish, Emeth Lodge 2028, Phoenix, Ariz.

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

LODGE AND DISTRICT

Districts 2 and 3 Degree Conferral at the Temple in Philadelphia On April 30, Districts 2 and 3 traveled to Philadelphia for a District-wide Degree Conferral in the Masonic Temple. A total of 162 brethren and ladies were in attendance, along with 10 candidates who were raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason. The degrees were done by All-Star Degree Teams in three lodge rooms in the Temple: Egyptian Hall, Renaissance Hall and Corinthian Hall.

While the brethren were conferring the work, the ladies were taken on a guided tour of the Edgar Allan Poe House before receiving a tour of the Temple by Bro. Danny Hinds, Superintendent of the Temple.

R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon witnessed all three conferrals, and presented each candidate with a signed Masonic Bible. Grand Master Sturgeon then honored the three conferring Worshipful Masters by presenting them each with one of his Masonic neckties and his medallion.

Widows Sons Riders

The combined Pennsylvania chapters of the Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association held its second charity ride on July 30 in Gettysburg. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon has been a great supporter of this event, and while not himself a rider, has graciously and enthusiastically lent his time and effort in helping the Widows Sons raise funds for worthy Masonic causes. The proceeds from the ride will be donated to the Masonic Children’s Home in Elizabethtown.

Widows Sons Masonic Riders is an international organization under the governance of a Grand Chapter for each jurisdiction. The primary goal of each chapter is the pursuit of fund raising and other activities for the benefit of Masonic widows and other charities. The Grand Chapter of the Pennsylvania Widows Sons now boasts five subordinate chapters and continues to grow!

To learn more or to get involved, visit www.widowssons.com/pa

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PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

Rainbow is Thriving in Central PA The International Order of Rainbow for Girls, Altoona Assembly #188, has been busy since receiving its charter in 2010. Under the supervision of Mother Advisor Kelly Hoover and sponsored by Freemasons of Masonic District 20, the young women have accomplished much in the line of service work. The 22 members have made and donated blankets for the Grand Worthy Advisor’s project, Project Linus. The donations were made on March 16 to organizations such as the Bair Foundation and Blair Family Services. The members also visited shut-ins with the local chapter of The Order of the Eastern Star. They made and donated bracelets to another local charity, as well as planted flowers for a community project. They also volunteer regularly with the Miracle League Network. These are just a few of the many projects the young women have participated in, all while having some fun.

The organization, which consists of young women ages 11-20, primarily focuses on community service, and the Altoona Assembly has certainly accomplished that this spring. If you are interested in joining or know of someone who might be, please call (814) 381-4978.

Ladies Honored with Flower Talk On May 17, Bellefonte Lodge No. 268 honored the women of the lodge with a program conducted by Bro. W. Thomas Moyer, State Master Counselor of the Pennsylvania DeMolay and a member of Steelton-Swatara Lodge No. 775, Swatara. Bro. Moyer presented the “Flower Talk” which spoke of the importance of mothers and honoring and having true respect for womanhood.

Each lady in attendance was given either a white or red carnation. It was Senior Warden’s Night at Bellefonte Lodge, and Bro. Joseph E. Leiter, S.W., contacted Bro. David W. Berry, Executive Secretary of Pennsylvania DeMolay, to arrange the program. The program was held prior to the stated meeting. Before the program, the ladies were honored with a meal in the lodge’s social hall.

The ladies in attendance, along with Bro. W. Thomas Moyer on the left and Bros.

David W. Berry and Joseph E. Leiter, Bellefonte Lodge No. 268.

Educational Endowment Fund Scholarships Awarded The Educational Endowment Fund Committee of the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation recently selected 41 students to receive $81,750 in scholarship awards. The annual program runs from October to March 15, when applications may be submitted. There were 181 applications submitted this year, representing students from 48 counties in the Commonwealth. Recipients were: Grand Lodge Higher Education Fund Recurring Scholarships $2,500 Three Year Jennifer Bush $2,000 Four Year Lauren Genova, Leanne Kile, Katherine Graham $2,000 Two Year Brittany Schafer $1,500 Two Year Krystalynn Anderson $2,000 Grand Lodge Higher Education Fund Scholarships Megan Runser, Alexandra Chir, Brittany Moldover, Kenzi Stemp $1,000 Grand Lodge Higher Education Fund Scholarships Kyle Wagonseller, John Salter, Candace Shirk $500 Grand Lodge Higher Education Fund Scholarship Joseph Chubb $2,000 Grand Master’s Scholarships Christopher Hartman, Griffin Harbach

$1,000 Lawrence Dietrich Smith Memorial Scholarships Casey Dubrawka, Amber Moody, Erin Kantner $1,000 Harry M. Ormston Scholarships Kirsten Kraker, Nicole Dietrich, James McMahon, Justin Greiss, Chad Reichard, Allison Topper $500 Harry M. Ormston Scholarships Stephen Weaver, Ashley Palmieri, Sydney Decker $2,000 Raymond A. Krome Scholarships Allison Fye, Alexandra Geise, Lauren Daub, Diana Jolly, Kirstin Knopp $1,000 Raymond A. Krome Scholarships Carole Emery, Jessica Mills, Thomas Moyer, Leigh Schaefer, Allen Engleson $2,000 PA Masonic Youth Foundation Scholarship MaryAnne Emery $1,000 Charles & Phyllis Schaeffer Scholarship Matthew Blaisdell $250 Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682 Scholarship Carrie Spicer

$500 Barbara Carson O.E.S. Scholarship Jennifer Bush $500 Stillman Leadership Scholarship Kirsten Kraker In addition, the committee awarded three Pennsylvania Masonic Acacia Fraternity Scholarships totaling $3,000 on behalf of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania: $2,000 Acacia Fraternity Scholarship Robert Zazac, III $500 Acacia Fraternity Scholarships Jeffrey Bluedom, Michael O’Reilly There were many deserving students who applied, but these competitive awards are limited to the income from the Grand Lodge Higher Education Fund and the PMYF Educational Endowment Fund, which only grows through YOUR contributions. The Masonic Scholarship Resource Guide for the 2012 program and the 2012 application will be available Oct. 1. The application and scholarship summaries are always current and available on the Internet at http://www.pmyf.org.

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

HODEGOS Honorees for 2011 The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania is pleased to announce and congratulate the 2011 HODEGOS Class: Bro. Douglas R. Harms and Mrs. Jeanine M. Larkin, from Pilgrim Chapter, Order of DeMolay; Mrs. Rhonda J. Pilarcik of Bethel No. 21, Butler, and Mrs. Linda E. Watson of Bethel No. 17, Hershey, of the Order of Job’s Daughters; and Mrs. Louise B. Metka, of Lehigh Valley Assembly, Macungie, and Mrs. Mary Ann Wagner, of Butler Assembly, Butler, 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 who are nominated by adult and youth leaders.

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 the ladies. 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.

Bro. Douglas Harms, Perseverance Lodge No. 21, and Mrs. Jeanine Larkin were presented the HODEGOS Award by R.W. Deputy Grand Master Jay W. Smith at the annual DeMolay Convention in July.

DeMolay Helps Make Blood Drive Successful

On April 29, members of the Westmoreland Chapter, Order of DeMolay, assisted the Central Blood Bank in collecting 142 units of whole blood and red cells at the Greensburg Masonic Center to be used for transfusing patients in more than 40 hospitals in the western Pennsylvania region. Great results like these could not have happened without the combined forces of quite a few committed Masonic brethren and DeMolay!

Recruiting for this drive comprised of posters, flyers and e-mails distributed to local stores, churches, businesses, schools, family members and friends. Recruiting packages were mailed to and announcements were made at lodge meetings in the 30th Masonic District, and a series of “Call-to-the-Craft” messages was scheduled to be delivered just prior to the drive. Two weeks out, Central Blood Bank

enlisted the aid of radio station FM 105.9 “The X” and more than 100 radio spots were run advertising the blood drive. On the day of the drive, radio personality Abby Krizner made a special appearance and made remote broadcasts from the Greensburg Masonic Center.

The blood drive collected 104 units of whole blood. These units were likely manufactured into three products – red blood cells (RBCs), platelets and plasma. Central Blood Bank also had six Haemonetics machines at the blood drive capable of performing apheresis, or the separation of blood products outside of the body. Through the use of these machines, 38 units of red blood cells were collected from donors. When you consider that each whole blood unit could benefit up to three people, a total of 350 patients were potentially helped by

the efforts of this blood drive and the selfless acts of the blood donors.

Those who contributed significant efforts to the blood drive included: Master Councilor Isaac Holtzer; Senior Councilor Adam Neubaurer; Chapter Advisor “Dad” Kirk B. Thomas, P.M.; Bro. Richard L. McAlpine, P.M., W.M.; “Dad” Rodney E. Boyce, District Deputy Grand Master for District 30; and Bro. David Matheny, Region Director, Central Blood Bank, who entered the fraternity during the 2010 One Day Masonic Journey. Bro. Matheny had to close the doors at 7 p.m., as the donors were still coming in!

Help was also freely given by other chapter members, advisors and members of both Philanthropy Lodge No. 225 and Westmoreland Lodge No. 518, both of Greensburg. Numerous family members provided canteen help, volunteered to assist as needed and donated blood.

Bro. Ed Budman, P.M., traveled from his home in eastern Pennsylvania to represent the Pennsylvania Grand Lodge Blood and Organ Donor Club at the blood drive. “This was a most fantastic Masonic Day!” he said.

Blood Drive by the Numbers:

2 or 3......... Petitions handed out 50............... New members in the Masonic Blood Club 142............. Units collected (goal was 100!)

350............. Patients potentially helped 1,420.......... Masonic charity dollars raised – will be given to Westmoreland DeMolay

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MASONIC VILL AGES

MASONIC VILLAGES’

2011

WISH LIST ITEMS OFFICE OF GIFT PLANNING

(800) 599-6454

Thank you to those who have provided for the following items from last issue’s Wish List: MASONIC VILLAGE AT ELIZABETHTOWN Bro. Donald Wood: It’s Never Too Late System, 2 Wiis for residents Bro. Jeffrey and Nancy Hoyt: Wheelchairs Carl Dreisbach: 2 washing machines and 1 dryer for residents Tina Krasnasky: Balcony furniture for residents Bro. Kenneth and Elaine Bleiler: Van for Bleiler Caring Cottage MASONIC CHILDREN’S HOME Bro. Martin and Gabrielle Bayer: 2 medicine cabinets Morning Light Chapter No. 312, O.E.S.: Art classes Lodge No. 2: Art classes and materials MASONIC VILLAGE AT LAFAYETTE HILL Anonymous Donors: Bedspreads and TV

TOTAL: $72,081!

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011 Qty. Capital Need Children’s Home 5 Bathroom Vanities and Counters 1 Canoe Trip 5 Window Air Conditioners 3 Food Processors 1 Scanner 1 Dining Room Table and Chairs Camp and Summer Classes 1 Karaoke Machine 5 Kinect X-box Game Units 1 Pressure Washer 1 PA System 1 Sport Equipment: Squat Rack 1 Sport Equipment: Weight Bench 1 Sport Equipment: Ping Pong Table 1 Sport Equipment: Soccer Goal Sport Equipment: Bases Sport Equipment: Outdoor Sport Games 2 Carpets for Enclosed Porch Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill 3 Recliners Lobby Facelift (Furniture, Lamps, Drapery, etc.)

60 Televisions 1 It’s Never Too Late - computer systems that empower individuals to connect, engage & enjoy life 1 Van with lift Masonic Village at Warminster 12 Over Bed Tables Masonic Village at Sewickley 1 Photosmart Compact Printer w/Extra Cartridges 1 Set of 12 Note Choir chimes 1 Vehicle (on-campus use) Window Tinting for Main Dining Room 1 Large Screen TV for Personal Care Residents 2 Outdoor Tents (size 20 x 20) 1 All-in-One Music System Masonic Village at Elizabethtown 1 Portable Sound System for Resident Chorus Group 1 Wii Clinical Needs 87 APM2 Mattresses 80 x 35 - Prevent 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 5 Wheelchairs - Broda - Comfort seating at end of life 15 Wheelchairs - Specialty 10 Whirlpools (Tubs) Quality Of Life Needs 3 Furniture for Resident Balconies 10 Horticulture Gardens Raised - Depending on the size and materials used 2 Keyboards - Digital

Cost per Item Total Cost $950 $700 $200 $100 $400 $2,000 $150 $300 $200 $500 $300 $200 $250 $150 $150 $200 $1,500

$4,750 $700 $1,000 $300 $400 $2,000 $250 $150 $1,500 $200 $500 $300 $200 $250 $150 $150 $200 $3,000

$676 $28,000 $400 $24,000

$2,028 $28,000 $24,000 $24,000

$45,000

$45,000

$265

$3,180

$250 $530 $12,000 $4,000 $3,000 $1,800 $500

$250 $530 $12,000 $4,000 $3,000 $3,600 $500

$2,502 $500

$2,502 $500

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

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

$1,000 $3,000 $500-$1,000 $5,000$10,000 $2,500 $5,000

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

MASONIC VILL AGES

Celebrating Life’s Accomplishments At the 88th Annual Youth Appreciation Day on May 27, the Masonic Children’s Home staff publicly recognized the children’s scholastic and extracurricular achievements throughout the year by presenting them with awards, scholarships and certificates. Family members, employees, donors, Committee on Masonic Homes members and special guests from local schools were invited to celebrate the occasion and recognize the role these groups of people have played in the youths’ success.

The theme for the day, gratitude, reflected the children’s appreciation for those who have impacted their young lives.

To kick off the event, four youth who have been taking music lessons performed individually on the piano, guitar and violin (Jasmine Schmitt is pictured playing the guitar).

The youngest boys led the Pledge of Allegiance (pictured together) and “Star Spangled Banner.” Then, when the children heard their names, they paraded across the stage to receive their many honors. The five seniors reflected on their time at the children’s home before R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon addressed the crowd. “It’s humbling to be able to do so much for people in need,” he said, “but that’s what Freemasonry is all about.” (Jazmin Asencio and the Grand Master are pictured letting out their inner child, third from bottom.)

After the awards ceremony, the program moved to the Masonic Children’s Home, where the Donor Recognition Garden was rededicated in honor of the new and faithful donors to the children’s home (pictured second from the bottom, Shawn Dodson reads from a plaque). Grand Master Sturgeon; Ginny Migrala, director of children’s services; and the five seniors (pictured left-right) Rose Bert; Clem Varence; Bro. Mike Moyer, Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown; Shawn Dodson; and Jazmin Asencio planted a tree to leave a living symbol of the young adults’ ties to the children’s home.

Jazmin moved to the Masonic Children’s Home on June 25, 2009. This honor-roll student worked at McDonald’s; served on the Resident Council; volunteered at GEARS; and participated in Key Club, the prom committee and Literary Magazine at school. She will attend the Art Institute of

Philadelphia to pursue a bachelor’s degree in fashion marketing and hopes to become a professional stylist and self-image consultant.

Rose moved to the children’s home on Aug. 12, 2009. This avid reader attended a Quaker youth group, volunteered, joined a science club, attended a leadership conference, worked at Hersheypark, served on the Entertainment Committee and participated in color guard, chorus, voice and piano lessons. Rose will attend Lancaster School of Massage to become a massage therapist. Eventually, she wants to pursue a degree in nutrition.

On Aug. 6, 2007, Shawn moved to the children’s home where he made honor roll, worked at Mike Shaffer Auto Sales and Kmart and participated on the track team. He will attend Pennsylvania College of Technology to pursue an associate degree in plastics and polymer technology.

Bro. Mike moved to the Masonic Children’s Home on Aug. 8, 2002. During his senior year, Bro. Mike took a collegelevel computer course, served on the Resident Council, took guitar lessons, played golf, worked at Kmart and Mike Shaffer Auto Sales, and volunteered. He is a member of the math Quiz Bowl team, National Honor Society, DeMolay and the Masonic fraternity. Bro. Mike plans to attend Drexel University to study computer engineering.

On Jan. 6, 2006, Clem moved to the children’s home where he excelled in football and track and field, took saxophone lessons, served on the Resident Council, joined DeMolay and worked at Turkey Hill. Clem will pursue an associate degree in criminal justice at Central Penn College, with the hopes of working for the FBI as a translator and eventually moving to a Spanish-speaking country to work in law enforcement.

Jazmin, Rose, Shawn and Bro. Mike are sponsored by Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown. Clem is sponsored

by Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, Harrisburg.

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A Village for Every Lifestyle

MASONIC VILL AGES

MASONIC VILLAGE AT DALLAS Many new people are experiencing retirement in an exciting, fresh way at the Masonic Village at Dallas. With all of the apartments reserved, you could be one of the first to sign up for the apartment waiting list. A renovated model villa displaying the many upgrade options resulted in the sale of numerous villas, including the model home.

Come tour our second upgraded model villa, complete with granite counter tops, bamboo flooring and more! With quality services, social events at the exquisite Irem Country Club and financial security, you’ll want to make Masonic Village at Dallas your home.

For more information, call (570) 675-1866 or (866) 851-4243.

Upcoming Events: August 30: An Evening at the Irem Country Club. Hors d’oeuvres at 5:30 p.m., with a brief presentation and tours to follow.

September 25: Fall Open House and Irem Ladies Craft Fair at the Irem Pavilion. Tours available 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. Craft Fair open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

October 25: Octoberfest Open House at the Irem Country Club. Enjoy complimentary lunch at noon with a presentation and tours to follow.

MASONIC VILLAGE AT ELIZABETHTOWN The Masonic Village at Elizabethtown offers some of the newest options and amenities.

Apartments of various designs in the Village Green area now offer lowercost retirement living options. New residents who take advantage of the

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

convenient lifestyle of the James Buchanan apartments can look forward to upgraded features, including kitchens with granite counter tops and cherry cabinets and upgraded bathroom features. New cottages are currently under construction adjacent to the Formal Gardens; in fact, two of them will be featured during Autumn Day! To top it all off, recent changes in dining services allow residents the flexibility of eating at any of the six restaurants on campus.

In addition, there is a $10,000 incentive on select two-bedroom Sycamore apartments.

If you like the relaxed pace of the countryside mixed with innumerable activities and many lifestyle choices, check out the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.

For information about retirement living, call (800) 676-6452. For information about personal care and nursing services, dial (800) 422-1207.

MASONIC VILLAGE AT LAFAYETTE HILL At the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, almost everyone you meet becomes an instant friend. With special events that people from all walks of life enjoy, this campus is becoming a hub of activity, not just for residents, but the community as a whole. Just 20 minutes from Philadelphia, the campus offers suburban living with all the amenities the city can offer. Visit to tour our elegantly renovated retirement living apartments and enjoy lunch in the Bistro. With an atmosphere unmatched by other communities, you may never want to leave. For retirement living inquiries, call (610) 828-5760. For personal

care and nursing services questions, call (610) 825-6100.

Upcoming Events: September 14: “The Media German Ompah Band” at Kenneth Mills Auditorium from 6 - 8 p.m.

September 27: Financial Planning Seminar at Kenneth Mills Auditorium at 10 a.m.

October 12: Open House at Kenneth Mills Auditorium at 10 a.m.

November 15: Drop-In Open House at Kenneth Mills Auditorium 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

MASONIC VILLAGE AT SEWICKLEY Masonic Village at Sewickley provides secluded security with convenient access to the infinite possibilities Pittsburgh offers. This beautiful community bursts with recreational, wellness and educational opportunities. Oncampus art, Masonic, woodworking and other clubs help people to connect with friends and explore new passions. The wellness center offers professional advice, classes, a pool, a jacuzzi and fitness equipment to help you achieve your wellness goals. This awardwinning lifecare community has everything you need to relax and enjoy your retirement while you maintain an active and social lifestyle. You may find the maintenance-free living hard to resist. For information about retirement living, call (412) 741-1400, ext.

3530 or (866) 872-0664. For information about personal care and nursing services, call (412) 741-1400, ext. 3600.

Upcoming Events: September 27: Twilight Open House at the Clubhouse 4 - 7 p.m.

October 27: Fall Festival of Homes at the Clubhouse at 10 a.m.

November 17: Open House at the Clubhouse at 10 a.m.

MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason • August 2011

31

Autumn Day

2011

September 17, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

For Handicap and Bus Parking Only

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.

Autumn Day 2011

Join members and friends in celebrating Autumn Day at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. The event will feature entertainment, information, delicious food served from 10 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 to the right 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. Anyone interested in donating blood should make an appointment by calling (800) 7710059 between 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday. Please do not call the Masonic Village for these appointments.

Donation Celebration

Lodge No. 9, Philadelphia, gave a $7,500 monetary gift to divide between the Masonic Children’s Home and Bleiler Caring Cottage at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.

To celebrate the gift, members of Lodge No. 9 who reside at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, and residents of the children’s home and Bleiler Caring Cottage, gathered for a photograph with the check at a last-day-of-school pizza party provided by Delphi Chapter No. 65 of the Order of the Eastern Star on June 14. Pictured are (left-right) Bro. Dave Getty, Lodge No. 9; Tianee Gatewood; Bro. Bill Norris, P.M., Lodge No. 9; Bro. Scott Davison, Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, and Bleiler Caring Cottage resident; Virginia Migrala, director of children’s services at the Masonic Children’s Home; Bro. Kevin Koch, Lowther Manor Lodge No. 781, Camp Hill, and Bleiler Caring Cottage resident; Bro. Dick Cherry, Lodge No. 9; Deprin Hawk; Elaine Bleiler; and Bro. Kenneth Bleiler, Lodge No. 9.

Lifetime GUARANTEED

INCOME

SAMPLE GUARANTEED LIFETIME RATES For One Life For Two Lives • A “Charitable Gift Annuity” – a special type of charitable gift that pays donors for life.

Age Rate Age Rate 5.8% 70 & 75 5.4% WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? 70 75 6.5% 75 & 80 5.9% • Guaranteed, fixed lifetime income.

• Tax savings.

77 6.8% 78 & 81 6.2% 81 7.7% 83 & 83 6.9% WHO HAS PARTICIPATED? 8.4% 85 & 87 7.6% • Hundreds of Masonic & non-Masonic donors. 85 90+ 9.8% 85 & 90 7.9%

WHAT IS IT?

WHY?

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

• Benefits the donor and Masonic Charities!

WHAT ARE THE MINIMUMS? • $5,000 gift in cash or appreciated securities.

• Age 65.

WHERE CAN I GET INFORMATION?

Call Masonic Charities at 1-800-599-6454, or mail attached reply form below.

COMPLETE AND MAIL THIS FORM TO:

Masonic Charities, Office of Gift Planning One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022 • Phone (800) 599-6454

I would like more information, with no obligation. Please:  Send me a benefits illustration.

Name(s)__________________________________________________________ Address__________________________________________________________ E-mail:___________________________________________________________ My birth date_______ Spouse’s birth date_______ (if for two lives) Dollar amount(s) to be illustrated (up to three amounts)____________________ If using appreciated stock, estimate cost basis_____________________________  Call me to answer my questions. Phone (

)______________________

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.