Freemason - August 2014

The Pennsylvania

AUGUST 2014 edition vol. Lx1 no. 3

Arthur James Kurtz Remembering 1919 - 2014

Establishing

Autumn Day 2014

THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON® VOL. LXI, AUGUST 2014, NO. 3

©2014 The R.W. Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Pennsylvania

Inside this Issue...

EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman Robert J. Bateman, R.W.G.M. Raymond T. Dietz, R.W.D.G.M. S. Eugene Herritt, R.W.S.G.W. Thomas Gamon, IV, 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 Pennsylvania Staff

3 Grand Lodge

(Publication No. USPS 426-140) August 2014 Issue of The Pennsylvania Freemason ® Published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Articles and photographs to be considered for publication should be sent with local Masonic authority to the address above, to the attention of The Pennsylvania Freemason ® or emailed to pafreemason@ masonicvillages.org. Except by special arrangement, all articles, photographs and artwork become the property of the Grand Lodge.

• Grand Master’s Message • June Quarterly Communication Highlights • Annual PA-Ohio Brotherhood Night • A Leap Forward in Online Communications • Up in the Cloud • Masonic Education Certificates Update • Change for the Troops

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

Periodical postage is paid at Elizabethtown, Pa., and additional mailing offices.

• Random Acts of Kindness & Community Service • Congratulations to ...

• Honoring Our First Responders

We appreciate the many submissions we receive for consideration. We apologize, but due to space constraints we are not able to publish every submission we receive.

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP (Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United States Code) August 1, 2014, 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: Robert J. Bateman. Owner: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Known bondholders: none. No advertising handled. Free distribution averages 124,000 each quarter.

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

Robert J. Bateman, Editor Mailing address changes

If your address on the back cover of this magazine is not exactly as you have provided it to us, please be aware that addresses are modified through the various mailing process requirements required by the U.S. Postal Service. If you have any questions or would like to inform us of a change in address, please contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454 or giving@masonicvillages.org.

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

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• Masonic Book Review • PA Academy of Masonic Knowledge • A Super Addition to Autumn Day • In Memoriam: R.W.P.G.M. Arthur James Kurtz • Annual Youth Appreciation Day 2014

20 PA Masonic Youth Foundation

• Masonic Youth Group Events • DeMolay Grants Highest Honor to 36 Leaders • Scholarship Award History Exceeds $1 Million • Lodge Supports PMYF

24 Masonic Villages

• Autumn Day 2014 • How to Choose a Retirement Community • Bro. Tim Templeton Helps Lead Masonic Villages • Plaque Dedication Memorializes Philanthropist • 2014 Wish List Items

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

Dear Brethren and Ladies,

Summer has arrived, most of the lodges are dark and our brethren are enjoying a time of relaxation, contemplation and retrospection.

Freemasonry in Pennsylvania has been very busy the past seven months with our Membership Retention committees working hard, Grand Lodge and district visitations, lodge banquets, parades, D.D.G.M. presentations, officer workshops, one day classes, family night programs, first responders programs, Change for the Troops events at Willow Grove Air Base and Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, and our Quarterly Communication in Erie.

This is a wonderful and proud time for Pennsylvania Freemasonry.

Our brethren and our families are enjoying Freemasonry together, and it feels good when we, as a family, continue to engage in new and exciting activities. Our Change for the Troops program is expanding to extend assistance to those who need help returning to civilian life, along with the other efforts already in the works. Thanks to the generosity of our Masonic family, I am proud to say we have collected over $744,000 to assist our military heroes and their families. Please continue your generous contributions; we still have a lot of help to offer.

Brethren, I have stated in my remarks when attending our lodges throughout the state, that this is the time to take advantage of Grand Lodge’s generosity to assist your lodge to increase its financial income.

All you need to do is increase your membership while maintaining current membership in both 2014 and 2015. These details are stated in the Inaugural Edition of the “The Pennsylvania Freemason” magazine.

Don’t let this opportunity pass you by! You never know when the next opportunity will come your way. Worshipful Masters, you need to make sure that your membership retention committees are working hard to assure that our brethren who have been suspended for nonpayment of dues and those brethren who have resigned in the past three years have been contacted. This will definitely aid your lodge in membership growth.

Some brethren may say that we need more quality members, not just quantity. I say to every Pennsylvania Freemason that I believe no member in our fraternity would recommend any person who they would not invite as a guest into their home. Brethren, don’t be afraid to invite a good and worthy man to become a Mason. This way, you know already that this man is under the tongue of good Masonic report.

All first-line signers on a petition will receive a sunshade for the windshield of his vehicle as my personal gift. They will also have a chance to win a $1,000 gift card for being a first-line signer on a petition for initiation and membership, or for a brother who wants membership in Pennsylvania Masonry from another jurisdiction. I ask you to please use this sunshade every time you park your vehicle.

Please don’t forget our Masonic youth groups. We need to support and get involved with our future. Our Masonic youth groups are very active and growing. One Rainbow assembly was instituted in Macungie in April, one will be instituted in September in Concordville, and a pledge group started in Mount Joy. There is interest in starting a DeMolay chapter in Pottstown, one in the Monoquesy area, and one in the White Haven area. Job’s Daughters are working on starting up a new bethel in Broomall. Brethren, let’s get together and show our support for the growth of our Masonic youth. If we don’t show them that we care, then how do we expect them to show us they care? We now have 690 DeMolay, 295 Rainbow and 181 Job’s Daughters in our Masonic youth programs. I am sure we all know a young man or lady who would love to belong to one of our youth programs. Let’s help to make a difference in a child’s life.

An eternal flame is being installed at the Veterans Grove at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown to pay homage to all active military, our veterans, and all those heroes who gave their lives for our freedom.

The above photo is of the ground breaking for this spectacular project.

We will celebrate this event at Autumn Day, Sept. 20. The dedication is building up to be a monumental experience for all those who will be in attendance that day. I assure you this event will not be forgotten in the minds and hearts of all in attendance. Please make a note of this occasion on your calendar. All information as to how you can support this effort is provided on pp. 24-25.

Brethren and ladies, please have an enjoyable, safe and healthy summer. Let’s all look forward to continuing the rest of our Masonic journey through 2014. Just remember: if we want Masonry to grow, we should nurture it with brotherly love and affection; use the blueprints and designs from the past, the tools of the present and our dreams to build the future for our great fraternity. God bless the United States of America, God bless our great and beloved fraternity, and God bless all of you.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Robert J. Bateman R.W. Grand Master

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Pennsylvania Freemason

June Quarterly Communication Highlights On June 21, 258 members, representing 119 lodges, and one visitor were present for the June Quarterly Communication at the Bayfront Convention Center in Erie.

Grand Secretary Mark Haines presented membership statistics for the Masonic year ending Dec. 27, 2013. With 12 lodge mergers and one new lodge constituted in 2013, the number of lodges decreased from 428 in 2012 to 417 in 2013. Membership decreased from 109,790 in 2012 to 107,731 in 2013. While 3,499 members were admitted, initiated or restored in 2013, the overall membership decreased due to suspensions, expulsions, resignations and deaths, accounting for the loss of 5,558 members.

Resolutions were presented to amend the “Ahiman Rezon,” specifically related to the election of Grand Officers and Masonic Villages’ Board of Directors, as well as qualifications for becoming a Past District Deputy Grand Master.

R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman presented the Outstanding Service Award to Bro. William M. Kratzenberg, P.D.D.G.M.-54 and Deputy Chief Aide to the Grand Master (top photo).

Grand Master Bateman also presented a Masonic sunshade to Bro. Brian R. Page, W.M., Lake Erie Lodge No. 347, Girard, for being a first-line signer on a petition (middle photo).

R.W. Senior Grand Warden S. Eugene Herritt presented Academy of Masonic Knowledge Masonic Scholar collars to Bros. Shawn M. Gorley, Wilmington Lodge No. 804, New Wilmington, and Richard F. Muth, P.M., St. James Lodge No. 457, Beaver (bottom photo - the recipients are congratulated by Grand Master Bateman).

A eulogy for R.W. Past Grand Master Arthur J. Kurtz was given by R.W. Past Grand Master Samuel C. Williamson (see pp. 16-17).

Contributions from lodges to the Masonic Charities totaled $14,000.

Grand Master Bateman announced the December Quarterly Communication will be held at the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2014.

Annual Pennsylvania - Ohio Brotherhood Night

The Annual Pennsylvania-Ohio Brotherhood Night is being hosted by the Lodge of the Craft/Westminster Lodge No. 433 on Tuesday evening, Sept, 16, at the Valley of New Castle, Scottish Rite Building located at 110 East Lincoln Ave., New Castle, PA 16101.

Grand Master Bateman requests that brethren interested in attending notify their District Deputy Grand Master so that Grand Lodge may prepare for the estimated attendance.

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August 2014

A LEAP FORWARD in Online Communication

To augment our information and communication efforts, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania is preparing to enhance our current technological capabilities, add new ones and expand the reach of our computer systems to put them in the hands of every member who has such an inclination. Making these changes is necessary to make the tasks involved in running the fraternity easier, to enhance communication among all members and to help safeguard against information and technology breaches that have become so common in recent times.

We are extremely fortunate to have the services of a talented corps of volunteer IT specialists made up of members from throughout the jurisdiction who have offered to expend tremendous effort toward the success of this project. However, each member will have a part to play in making this project successful, and thereby helping to ensure that we pass a vibrant and healthy organization onto the next generation.

Up in the Cloud by Bro. David Koppel, Web Programmer Technology is constantly coming up with new gadgets, gizmos, ideas and jargon. Many of these are little more than fads and disappear quickly; however, others stick around and eventually become important enough that they’re hard to ignore.

The idea of “cloud” technology is one that seems to be here to stay. More and more companies are embracing the cloud, and new services are being offered from the cloud on a frequent basis.

So what, exactly, is the cloud?

Put at its simplest, a service is “in the cloud” when you have to connect your computer (or smart phone or tablet) to computers (or a server) somewhere else that do all of the work for you, rather than a local device. The term “cloud” refers to the fact that the computers running this software can be located in any number of geographic areas.

When you check your email, you’re most likely getting it from the cloud. If you’ve ever used Dropbox to share files with someone, you’ve

used the cloud. Other examples include Skype, LinkedIn, Evernote, Salesforce and Workday.

Which leads to another question: What’s the difference between a website and the cloud?

In reality, the difference isn’t very well defined, but most people seem to agree that there is one.

Characteristics most commonly associated with cloud applications or services are: • You don’t have to be connected to the Internet the entire time you are using it. For example, you can compose your email and then connect to the Internet later to send it.

• You don’t have to use an Internet browser to use it and can instead use other programs specifically designed to work with that cloud application. Opening your email through Microsoft Outlook or a mail application on your smart phone is a good example of this.

• You can customize how it looks, feels and works, and the changes you make remain, even if you switch from your computer to your phone to use it.

• Not everything considered cloud-based

has all of these characteristics, but they usually have at least one.

The burning question many people have about cloud services is: Is it safe to use? The idea of sending your user name and password, personal information or even credit card information over the Internet is one that raises a lot of reasonable concerns. However, cloud computing is no different than any other service on the Internet. The security and safety of using the service depends on the company running it and your personal safety habits.

There is nothing about being on the cloud that makes software inherently less secure than anything else on the Internet. Most big name cloud providers have put enough effort into security that they tend to be safer than other things you may do on the Internet. Companies that offer cloud services are often reliant upon their good reputation. A little research and good choices about password security can go a long way toward preventing cloud services from “raining” on your online parade.

Education Certificates Update Certificates will be sent out to everyone who completed one or more of the Masonic Law, Masonic History and Mentor Program courses on the Masonic Education site, www.pamasons.net/education/. In order to complete a course, you must pass each quiz for that course with a score of 80 percent or better. The certificates will be mailed sometime soon, so keep an eye on your mailbox! If you haven’t taken the courses, you can still participate; we’ll send out more certificates periodically.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

CHANGE FOR THE TROOPS PREVIOUSLY HELP FOR OUR HEROES

Change for the Troops Hosts 2nd Baby Shower for PA National Guard Service Members

Evelyn Mandel, wife of Bro. Marvin Mandel, hands out the knit infant hats that she made.

On May 17, Change for the Troops provided 20 expectant Pennsylvania National Guard service members’ families (13 Army and seven Air Force) at Fort Indiantown Gap with much needed items in anticipation of the birth of their children. Six families in attendance currently have a service member deployed overseas, and the other 14 families serve within the Commonwealth full-time. In addition to learning about the importance of healthy eating, stress relief and caring for their baby, the expectant mothers played a shower game. They received items

including diapers, wipes, clothing, toys, gift cards and much more. Highlights of the afternoon included the presentation to each family of a video monitor and travel stroller system with an infant car seat.

Bro. Marvin Mandel, D.D.G.M.-B, represented R.W. Grand Master Bateman at the event.

One expectant Pennsylvania National Guard solider could not attend due to duty responsibilities; however, the Pennsylvania National Guard and local Masons partnered together to provide a surprise baby shower for her on June 3.

A military couple shows off their new infrared baby video monitor.

“SGT Spangenberg was surprised, happy and very appreciative,” said Sgt. Maj. Bro. Mark A. Todero, Pine Grove Lodge No. 409, who represented the fraternity at this event.

To all, I just wanted to thank everyone for your support and generous gifts to our service members and their families.

- A nna Richar

Chuckles the Shrine clown invited any military and their families to the Shrine circus for free.

Airman & Family Readiness Program Manager 111th Fighter Wing, Horsham, PA

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August 2014

Expectant mother and Pennsylvania National Guard solider SGT Spangenberg poses for a picture with her fellow guardsmen and women, along with Sgt. Maj. Bro. Mark A. Todero, during her surprise shower.

National Sojourners perform a flag ceremony during the shower.

Thank you so much for the amazing baby shower! It was so nice to meet all of you and share in the excitement of this joyous time in our lives! I was overwhelmed by your generosity and support and feel truly blessed. Thank you so much for all of the wonderful baby goodies.

Sofia will look adorable in the baby clothes and I’m sure she will enjoy playing with all of her new toys! I am so excited to try out the baby monitor; it is so high-tech! And the stroller and car seat was such an unexpected surprise! Our baby will be traveling around in style! Also, the gift card is very much appreciated – there are still so many things we have to purchase; our list is a mile long, so it will be put to good use.

I can’t wait to have fun choosing lots of cute baby things.

Thank you! Coo-rah!

- Kristin & Maris Hubbard

PA Masons Recognized for Helping Heroes On April 9, R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman hosted the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst team at the Grand Lodge in Philadelphia and was pleased to accept a plaque recognizing all Pennsylvania Masons for their support of the military who ensure our Masonic rights to meet in a free country. Also in attendance were staff from The Veterans Group, who are committed to the health and welfare of homeless veterans.

First row, l-r: Grand Master Bateman; Amy Thomas, with Family Advocacy; and Bro. and Col. Harris Brooks, Lodge No. 126, Philadelphia.

Second row, l-r: Cynthia Freier, Michelle Nelson, April Ashjian, Shaleen Anderson and Brenda Pollack, all with Family Advocacy.

Third row, l-r: Don Divis and Leona Rader with the Military and Family Support Center; Justin Ashjian, MSgt USAF; Bro. James Wiesensee, W.M., Laurel Lodge No. 237, New Jersey; and Andrea Cramer, with the Support Center.

Fourth row, l-r: Bro. Cliff Skinner, a Prince Hall Mason; Matt Dunphy and Nicholas Loyle, with The Veterans Group; and Bro. Ricardo S. Pena, MSgt USAF, Laurel Lodge No. 237, New Jersey.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Random Acts of Kindness & Lodge Community Service Initiatives

“From what we get, we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life.”~ Arthur Ashe Helping others by performing random acts of kindness and community service has a dual benefit. Not only does it provide support to those on the receiving end, but it promotes emotional well-being for the helper, too. Each act and service can create great memories that will last a lifetime. The many benefits of helping others can encourage the continuation of touching the lives of people you may never have met before. Visit www.pagrandlodge.org/rak to enter your random acts of kindness on the registry.

Riding for a Cause Members of General James Chambers Lodge No. 801, Chambersburg, held their third annual motorcycle ride to benefit the Masonic Children’s Home on May 31. More than 40 riders and 12 participants attended this year’s event, and five of the riders rode police motorcycles. The ride was approximately 80 miles and stretched from Chambersburg to Elizabethtown. Along with the Masonic Children’s Home, the more than $1,600 raised will support other Masonic youth programs, as well as the Chambersburg Area Senior High School Navy JROTC program to assist with uniform and travel expenses.

Pancake Breakfast On March 29, Springfield-Hanby Lodge No. 767’s charity committee held its 53rd annual Pancake Breakfast in the Springfield Masonic Temple. Twenty-five members and visiting brethren helped to prepare and serve pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausages and orange juice to approximately 400 people. Chester Pike DeMolay assisted by busing tables and holding a bake sale. A few breakfast visitors even walked away with petitions in their hands.

R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman showed up early in the morning to start preparing the eggs for the day’s event. Brethren from Concordia Lodge No. 61, Jenkintown, and other lodges in the Philadelphia area also attended.

Adopt a Highway King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346, Connellsville, held its bi-annual Adopt-aHighway clean-up on April 26 at the Pleasant Valley Masonic Center. The team of brethren adopted a 1.7 mile stretch of highway that runs in front of their lodge, and they have a Community Service Committee dedicated to conducting annual community projects. After finishing the project together, the clean-up team enjoyed quality social time.

Bro. Raymond W. Bryant and Grand Master Bateman prepare eggs for the breakfast.

Helping Hands of Freemasonry 2014

Join Philadelphia-area Masons for their 4th annual day of giving to those who are truly in need so they may feed and clothe the homeless in Center City Phialdephia. If you cannot participate on Nov. 9, at 2 p.m., in Love Park for the event, you may show your support by donating the following items: hats, coats, scarves, gloves, socks, sleeping bags, assorted bags, sneakers, bottled water, granola bars, packs of crackers and easy-to-open soup. For more information, contact Bros. Jeff Templeton or Cruz Rivera at 215-254-5157.

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August 2014

Congratulations to…

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1. On June 13, the oldest living Past Master of Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551, Mt. Joy, Bro. George Endslow, P.M., received his 70-year Service Emblem. He served as Worshipful Master of Ashara Lodge No. 398 in 1948. Bro. George’s brother, Bro. James Endslow, is the second oldest living Past Master, having served as Worshipful Master of the lodge in 1951. l-r Bros. Jeffrey Kauffman, W.M., Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551; George Endslow, and Larry Derr, D.D.G.M.-1.

2. On April 8, Bro. Ernest L. Sheets, Covenant Lodge No. 473, Cambridge Springs, received his 70-year Masonic Service Emblem from Bro. Bernard D. Hanmore, D.D.G.M.-25. In June 1942, Bro. Sheets enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard, and two years later, he joined the fraternity in Hawaii. He transferred to Covenant Lodge in 1988.

3. Larry Derr, D.D.G.M.-1, presented the 2013 School of Instruction Participation Award trophy to Bro. Alan Parker, W.M., Lodge No. 43, Lancaster, on March 12. In 2013, a total of 601 brethren from the district’s 10 lodges attended the school.

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Worshipful Master and Representative to the Grand Lodge and the District as an Instructor at the District School of Instruction in Uniontown. l-r: Bros. Robert Farquahar, D.D.G.M.-31; Joseph Rode, P.M.; and David Simmons, W.M. 6. Bro. Carl G. Paylor, Mount Zion Lodge No. 774, McConnellsburg, was inducted into the Fulton County Sports Hall of Fame on April 4. While attending McConnellsburg High School, Bro. Paylor won the Pennsylvania State High School Pole Vaulting Championship in 1947, 1948 and 1949. In 1949, Bro. Paylor set a new state record of 12’ 3.75”. Bro. Paylor also played baseball, and as a junior, he was invited to participate in a Boston Braves practice at Forbes Field in Pittsburgh. By his senior year, Bro. Paylor was scouted by many major league teams. In 1949, he signed to play with the Lockport Reds, a Cincinnati Red’s farm team.

After serving with the U.S. Army in Korea, Bro. Paylor returned home to continue playing with the Utah Ogden Pioneers until he retired in 1958 with a career high batting average of .348.

4. Bro. Robert Burdick was presented with a Grand Lodge certificate for his dedicated years of service to the fraternity and a Grand Master’s pin by Bro. Willis L. Stephens, P.M., Titusville Lodge No. 754.

7. The Harrisburg Chapter No. 76, National Sojourners, received the Organization/Agency Award on June 5 from the Pennsylvania Therapeutic Recreation Society for assisting in the development and execution of veterans events at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, including the annual Massing of the Colors flag display and memorial.

5. In April, Robert Farquhar, D.D.G.M.-31, presented Bro. Joseph Rode, P.M., Brownsville Lodge No. 60, the Century Award for having given over 100 degrees. Bro. Rode has been a member since 1987 and has served the lodge as

Bro. Dennis Malcolm, Indiana-Franklin Lodge No. 313, Indiana, was recently presented with the General Douglas MacArthur Youth Award by the Grand Lodge of the state of New York for his exemplary service to the youth of New York.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Honoring Our First Responders

Lodges across the state dedicated programming during the month of May to honoring and celebrating our first responders, who put their lives on the line daily to ensure our safety. The following articles feature ways in which brethren recognized these brave heroes.

Visit by Grand Master Bateman On May 15, R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman made a personal visit to the stated meeting of Concordia Lodge No. 67, Jenkintown, to personally honor and recognize the first responders of Jenkintown’s police, fire and emergency service departments for their service to the community.

Grand Master Bateman presented each first responder with one of his first responder pins to remind them that the Masonic fraternity, as well as members of the community, are eternally grateful for their services. Before adjourning for the evening, Worshipful Master James Day presented donations to the first responder units.

Mock car crash at Riverview High School 25 Years of Service On May 8, Worshipful Master Frank Morgan, Harmony Lodge No. 429, Zelienople, presented Grand Master Bateman’s first responder pin to Bro. Todd A. Pohuski, who has served 25 years with the Ellwood City Fire Department (pictured at right).

Grand Master Bateman awards first responder pins.

“Thank You” from Masons and the Community At the first responder recognition event held by Verona Lodge No. 548 on May 6, responders from local fire departments, police departments and emergency services were presented with Grand Master Bateman’s first responder pins in recognition of their hard work. The lodge members and first responders then enjoyed hot roast beef sandwiches and cake in the lodge’s social room. The event served as a “thank you” to the local first responders from both the lodge and the local community.

As one example of first responders’ community service efforts, the week prior to the event, they organized a mock car crash at Riverview High School. The mock crash was part of the school’s Safe Schools Program held during prom week to help students understand the potential results of making bad choices.

An Evening Dedication On May 12, officers and members of Manheim Lodge No. 587 honored 38 local heroes from various police forces, fire departments, ambulance services and the 911 call centers in the Manheim and Lititz areas. All were recognized with first responder pins and a cake (pictured below).

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August 2014

Honoring while Learning Over 50 first responders were in attendance on May 17 when Huguenot Lodge No. 377, Kutztown, held an event to honor their dedication to the community. First responders from the Fleetwood, Virginville, Lyons, Kutztown, Walnuttown and surrounding areas brought 17 pieces of equipment to the event and demonstrated the use of each one. The first responders allowed kids and adults to sit in the 10 fire trucks and utility vehicles, four ambulances and two police vehicles. The lodge received a special visit from the MedEvac helicopter (pictured below), which the pilot skillfully landed behind the building. Visitors and lodge members were allowed to sit in the helicopter for photographs. Also during the day, Huguenot Lodge processed 17 children during a CHIP event. The first responders demonstrated how vital CHIP is to them when there is an emergency.

Worshipful Master Jesse L. Tamburino welcomed the first responders and thanked them for their service to the community, after which he and his wardens distributed first responder pins in honor of their service.

A Backyard Barbecue One hundred people, including 60 first responders from four fire and EMS companies and six police departments were in attendance at the Saucon Lodge No. 469, Coopersburg, outdoor barbecue (pictured below). There were eight fire trucks, two ambulances and six police vehicles, as well as a police canine unit demonstration.

Ten children won $10 gift cards to a local ice cream store and all 20 children in attendance were treated to ice cream at the event.

The first responders were very appreciative of the recognition of their critical role in the community’s safety.

A Joint Celebration Local responders were honored at a joint program hosted by Washington Lodge No. 164 and Sunset Lodge No. 623, Washington (pictured below). The honored guests were from the local ambulance services, police and fire departments. Each first responder was recognized with a pin provided by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.

Dinner and Dogs Quakertown Lodge No. 512 had 40 first responders from four fire companies and a police department plus an additional 20 family members in attendance at its first responder recognition event. Before the ceremony, the Quakertown police canine unit did a demonstration with their dogs and answered a variety of questions from an enthusiastic crowd. All of the guests and members in attendance also enjoyed a buffet dinner sponsored by the lodge. Unused food was donated to the women’s shelter in Milford.

A policeman demonstrates with a member of the department’s canine unit during the lodge’s first responder recognition event.

Expert Speaker Bedford Lodge No. 320 honored both Bedford Fire Department and Shawnee Valley Volunteer Fire Company during its first responder event (pictured below). Bro. Thomas Stoudnour, Everett Lodge No. 524, a 43-year-veteran of Saxton Volunteer Fire Company, was the guest speaker for the opening of the recognition. The lodge treated the first responders to a meal, followed by a discussion of the emergency services “then and now.” Each first responder was presented with a pin.

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Recognition Nights Mount Moriah Lodge No. 300, Huntingdon, was pleased to honor first responders at its recognition event held on May 12. Representatives from Huntingdon County Regional Fire and Rescue, Petersburg Volunteer Fire Company, Shavers Creek Volunteer Fire Company and Pennsylvania State Police attended the event (pictured below).

Fire Chief and President Honored Mount Zion Lodge No. 774, McConnellsburg, recognized seven members of the McConnellsburg Volunteer Fire Company and EMS, including the fire chief and company president, on the night of May 12 (pictured below). The Grand Master’s first responder pins were presented.

On June 14, Meridian Lodge No. 411 honored first responders from Enon Valley (pictured below).

Huntingdon County Heroes Recognized On May 27, Cromwell Lodge No. 572, Orbisonia, honored 32 first responders in southern Huntingdon County representing three fire companies, two emergency medical services, one sheriff’s department and one police department. The program was conducted in the lodge room with the presentation of pins to each first responder.

Members of Enon Valley’s EMT and Fire Department and their families, along with Bros. Levi R. Harding, III, W.M., Meridian Lodge No. 411, Enon Valley, and Lodge of the Craft/Westminster Lodge No. 433, New Castle; and Wayne D. Frankenstein, D.D.G.M.-26.

Volunteer First Responders Honored Hyndman Lodge No. 589 recognized and honored 16 representatives of Hyndman Volunteer Fire Company and Hyndman Volunteer Rescue Squad on May 19 (pictured below). Bros. Donald Shaffer, Baron Leap and Travis Leam performed a brief service and then distributed 28 first responder pins. Afterwards, guests enjoyed refreshments.

Members of the Huntingdon County Sheriff’s Department and lodge officers.

Honoring a Hero Many first responders have given the ultimate sacrifice to provide safety for others. Concord Lodge No. 625, Concordville, honored Bro. Edward A. Wehe, who suffered a heart attack after clearing the scene of a protest at the Delaware County Prison on Nov. 5, 2013.

Bro. Wehe served as a patrolman for Delaware County Courthouse and the Pennsylvania Park Police Department for 18 years. He also served as a part-time officer with the Marcus Hook Police Department.

Bro. Wehe was a decorated Chief Petty Officer who served on the USS Constellation CV-64 with the U.S. Navy before his retirement after 21 years.

Appreciation Meal

Prosperity Lodge No. 567, Riegelsville, honored 20 first responders from Riegelsville and Williams Township fire companies.

Guests were treated to a meal and door prizes including tickets to the upcoming spaghetti dinners at the lodge.

LODGE AND DISTRICT 13

August 2014

70 Responders Recognized Following its stated May meeting, Laurel Lodge No. 467, White Haven, hosted 70 first responders from White Haven and the surrounding communities (pictured below). Members of Laurel Lodge met their first responder honorees at St. Patrick’s Parish Hall, where each first responder was called up in turn and presented with a pin. Each first responder also talked briefly about his or her time in service. Many of the first responders honored were Masons, as well.

Lodges Unite for Meeting & Program For the first time in Pennsylvania Freemasonry in more than 300 years, with permission from R.W. Grand Master Bateman, two lodges held a joint meeting to conduct their monthly business on May 7: Kittanning East Brady Lodge No. 244 and Seneca Lodge 805, both of Kittanning, met in the Kittanning Masonic Temple.

Following the meeting, led by Bro. Kenneth D. Long, W.M., Seneca Lodge, and Rodney E. Boarts, W.M., Kittanning East Brady Lodge, the brethren together honored and celebrated the community’s first responders: firefighters, policemen, EMT personnel, personnel from the American Red Cross and their families. They were joined by ladies from the Order of the Eastern Star, Rainbow Girls, wives and families of the brethren from both lodges. The large lodge room was filled to capacity, and additional seating was required (pictured below).

The first responders were welcomed by Bros. Emilio V. Sforza, D.D.G.M.-27, and Roger A. Johnson, P.D.D.G.M. Bro. Roy E. Williamson, P.M., Seneca Lodge, was Master of Ceremonies. The honorees proudly stated their department affiliation and years of service to the community. Bros. James H. Fulton, who has served 63 years as a fireman, and Clarence R. Snyder, Jr., who has served 65 years as a fireman, were among the honorees.

Robert Neff, D.D.G.M.-45, presents first responder pins.

Dinner and a Ceremony On a Monday evening, Duquesne-McKeesport Lodge No. 731, Duquesne, held an event to honor the first responders serving in and around their community. Members of the lodge served a barbecue dinner, presented pins to each first responder and offered lodge tours (pictured below).

“We want to thank the local first responders for the service they provide to us and our community. It’s also a great way for the Freemasons to share what we do,” Bro. Gerald A. McGrew Jr., P.M., said.

First Responder Organizes Event to Honor Others On June 5, Spring-Ford Lodge No. 553, Royersford, celebrated 67 first responders from eight different municipalities: Montgomery County Bomb Squad, Sheriff’s Department and Detectives Office; Limerick Fire Company, Rescue and Police officers; and the Spring City and Royersford Police and Fire Departments (pictured below).

More than 200 people gathered in the lodge for the introductions and pin presentation, then headed outside to enjoy hamburgers and hot dogs and a moon bounce for the kids.

The event was organized by Bro. Brandon Unruh, a policeman in Pottstown, who joined the lodge in 2012.

Great Appreciation

When a fellow member suffered a severe heart attack at a March meeting, retired police officer and David H. Gilpin, W.M., Waverly Lodge No. 301, Clarks Green, (pictured) immediately took vitals and started CPR to keep him stable until an EMS crew arrived.

Due to the recent event, recognizing first responders became even more important. In May, members of the lodge invited community first responders to be honored.

14 FREEMASON

Pennsylvania Freemason

“Earning Freemasonry: A One Day Class Redemption”

by Adam T. Osman, Past Master • Reviewed by Cathy Giaimo, Assistant Librarian, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania One day classes have become an accepted method to bring candidates into the fold of Freemasonry.

While these classes have been productive, they may leave some new members with loose ends. To counter this problem, Bro. Adam T. Osman, Pennsylvania Mason and Past Master of Juniata Lodge No. 282, has written a book to help the newly initiated find their way and to suggest how to become a more productive Mason in “Earning Freemasonry: A One Day Class Redemption.”

A product of a one day class, Bro. Osman candidly relates his personal experiences as he learned, sometimes the hard way, what Freemasonry is about and his desire to really understand

its philosophy and how to shape his life, or, as he puts it, “earning Freemasonry.”

The book is divided into three sections. The first is “A Path to Freemasonry,” in which Bro. Osman explains what led him to Freemasonry, his thoughts on the one day class experience and the reasons for writing this book. Section two, “Different Freemasons Earning Freemasonry,” looks at the different levels of experience in Freemasonry from the newly-minted brother to the long-standing member, and how each member can and should have an impact on another. The final section, “Where Are We Headed?” examines modern trends and technology and their impact on the lodge and Freemasonry. It also looks at the appendant bodies and what they bring to the Masonic experience, and includes an explanation of what a “Mason at Sight” means.

Any brother who has gone through a one day class, either as a candidate or a participant, will find this book useful. Even better, this book will benefit anyone seeking to get more out of Freemasonry.

If you wish to borrow this book, please contact the library at 800-462-0430, ext. 1933, or visit The Masonic Library online catalog at www.pagrandlodge.org. This book is also available for purchase from the Museum Shop in the Masonic Temple at www.masonicmuseumgifts.com.

Pennsylvania Academy of Masonic Knowledge Saturday, October 18, 2014 • Freemasons Cultural Center • Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania The 2014 Fall session of the Academy of Masonic Knowledge will be held on Oct. 18 in the Deike Auditorium of the Freemasons Cultural Center on the campus of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Registration will open at 8:30 a.m., with the program beginning at 9:30 a.m. A lunch (requested contribution of $10) will be served at noon, and the program will be completed by 3 p.m. All Masons are welcome to attend. Dress is coat and tie.

The program for the day includes: • Professor David G. Hackett will speak on topics from his recently published book, “That Religion in Which All Men Agree: Freemasonry in American Culture.”

Prof. Hackett is an Associate Professor of

Religion at the University of Florida, having received his Ph.D. from Emory University in 1986. He has published numerous books and articles and has received fellowships from the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Louisville Institute for the Study of American Protestantism in American Culture.

In addition, Prof. Hackett has been a resident scholar at Princeton’s Center for Theological Inquiry and the Collegeville Institute for Ecumenical and Cultural Research.

• Bro. William Stephen “Steve” Burkle will speak on the topic: “Early Adoption of Paracelsus’ Alchemical Catechism by the Craft.”

Bro. Burkle is a metallurgist by profession and works in the oil and gas industry. He

has traveled widely throughout the United States, Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East teaching, lecturing and consulting. He is also an ordained Deacon in the Presbyterian Church. Bro. Burkle’s academic interests include Masonic symbolism, Alchemy and esoteric Freemasonry, upon which he has published numerous articles. He recently completed his Master of Arts, and is currently a Doctoral Candidate in Religious Studies.

The great objective in Freemasonry is to gain useful knowledge, and the Academy provides a great opportunity for the brethren to learn and to understand more about the significance of the Craft. Plan to attend and bring a brother or two along with you.

Pre-registration is required. To pre-register, please send your name, address, lodge number, and telephone by email to: AMKSecretary@pagrandlodge.org.

If you do not have access to email, please make your reservation through your Lodge Secretary.

Please recognize that a cost is incurred to the program for your registration. If you pre-register and subsequently determine that you will be unable to attend, please have the Masonic courtesy to cancel your reservation by the same method and providing the same information. We look forward to seeing you on Oct. 18.

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August 2014

A Super Addition to Autumn Day

New last year to the Autumn Day array of activities was caricaturist Bro. Al Wiesner, Shekinah Lodge No. 246, Philadelphia. From the time he sat down at his stand at 10 a.m., until the music had long ended and the food stands closed up, he was busy drawing large heads with slightly exaggerated features. He completed almost 50 drawings throughout the day and had to turn people away. He’ll be returning to Autumn Day in Elizabethtown on Sept. 20, 2014.

“It’s really massive,” he said of his impressions of Autumn Day and the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. “I had no idea it was this large.”

A Superhero is Born Bro. Wiesner attended college to become a commercial artist and has been drawing ever since. He is best known for his comic book character Shaloman. He completed his last issue of the series in 2012, having drawn 40 editions over 27 years.

“Superman was the first comic book hero back when I first learned to draw,” he said of his inspiration for the character.

“Because I have a modern Jewish background, I was looking for a superhero with a Jewish background. Years went by. I went into the Air Force, started a job, married and raised my children. Finally at one point, after all those years and still no Jewish superhero, I decided to create one. It was a lifelong ambition. Everyone feels the world is better off because superheroes are here.

“Many Jewish artists did not sign their

work with their name. Captain America’s artist signed his name Jack Kirby, but his name was Jacob Kurtzberg. Stan Lee [co-creator of Spider-Man, the Hulk, the Fantastic Four, Iron Man, Thor and the X-Men] is really Stan Lieber. I decided I would sign my work with my own name.”

Shaloman is a superhero with powers similar to Superman. He is also known as “The Man of Stone,” “Defender of the Downtrodden” and the “Kosher Crusader.” In the storyline, three wise men used magic to give a rock the power to become Shaloman and stop the evils of the world. They named him Shaloman because Shalom can mean “peace” in Hebrew.

Shaloman remains an inanimate rock until someone yells, “Oy vey!” for help. These words transform the rock into a muscular, curly-haired man with superhuman strength and an undefined level of invulnerability.

Shaloman can fly, and is so fast, he creates vortexes. He does not need to breathe and has super hearing, “sensor vision” and other superhuman senses. Only a substance called shinite can weaken him.

Distinguishing Caricatures Bro. Wiesner attended art school, although there’s no formal training for drawing caricatures. He picked it up naturally. “You have to know how to do it yourself,” he said.

“If the person is older, they have more lines in their face that you can use to distinguish them, and there’s more resemblance. I find children have the least attention span.”

No matter the subject’s age, Bro. Wiesner enjoys sharing his talents with others. The best part of completing a caricature is “hearing the surprise in a person’s voice when they realize how much it looks like them,” he said.

Bro. Wiesner joined the Masonic fraternity in 1977. He heard good things about the fraternity and had just become a widower.

“I’ve met a lot of nice new people I wouldn’t have met otherwise,” he said. He is also a DeMolay Legion of Honor recipient.

Look for Bro. Wiesner among the many games, food stands, family of Freemasonry information tables, crafts sales, live music and much more at Autumn Day!

16 FREEMASON

Pennsylvania Freemason

Eulogy for Brother Arthur James Kurtz R.W. Past Grand Master 1988-1989 Given by R.W. Past Grand Master Samuel C. Williamson at the June 21 Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania Writing about the group of men and women who grew up during the Great Depression and fought in World War II, NBC News reporter Tom Brokaw wrote, “It is, I believe, the greatest generation any society has ever produced.” He argued that these men and women fought, not for fame and recognition, but because it was the “right thing to do.”

It is a fitting description of our deceased brother, Arthur James Kurtz, R.W. Past Grand Master, who died on Sunday, May 18, at the venerable age of 95 years. On that date, Bro. Kurtz lay down his working tools, having tried all his life to do the right thing to prepare his spiritual temple “for that house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.”

Bro. Kurtz spent his lifetime in preparation for this day by serving his God and his fellow man. A life-long Harrisburg resident, he was born to William Sherman Kurtz and Myrtle (Bender) Kurtz on Jan. 3, 1919. He was educated in the public school system of Harrisburg.

During high school, he worked in the family moving and storage business driving trucks and learning all aspects of the business. He graduated from John Harris Senior High School in 1937.

Less than a year after graduation, he married his high school sweetheart, Dorothy Jane Dunkle, on March 28, 1938. It was a marriage that celebrated 76 years of faithfulness and love. Jane survives, along with his son, Richard, his sister, four grandsons and seven great­-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his daughter, Nancy Jane Harris, and a grandson, Richard Kurtz.

Bro. Kurtz worked for the federal government in the procurement division in Harrisburg. At the outbreak of World War II, he went to work in a steel mill.

In 1944, Bro. Kurtz was drafted into the U.S. Army and served in Europe in Company F, 315th Regiment, 44th Infantry Division, Transportation and Corps of Engineers. He participated in several very intense combat operations during World War II, earning the Combat Infantry Badge and three Battle Stars, the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart after being wounded in action. After long stays in Army hospitals, he was honorably discharged but sought and received a reserve commission as a first lieutenant, and rose to the rank of captain in the U. S. Army Reserves, before resigning in 1954.

Bro. Kurtz was proud of being a part of “the Greatest Generation,” although he never dwelled on his military service and sacrifice ... choosing, rather, to look forward and enjoy the freedoms he had fought so hard to preserve.

Following his active military service, Bro. Kurtz joined the family business as a partner. Upon the death of his father in 1954, he became the President and Chief Operating Officer of Kurtz Mayflower, Inc., and retired from the business in 1972.

Bro. Kurtz led a very active religious life as a member of Epworth

and Calvary United Methodist churches. He served in many capacities over the years, teaching adult Sunday School, serving on the finance committee and leading the pastoral relations committee.

After moving to the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, he and Jane became members of the Sell Chapel Congregation.

Outside of Freemasonry, Bro. Kurtz was active in his community in the Harrisburg Kiwanis Club, the Chamber of Commerce, the Hill Businessman’s Association, the P.T.A. and the Central Y.M.C.A, of which he was President in 1961.

Bro. Kurtz was made a Mason in Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, Harrisburg, in 1950. He served as Worshipful Master in 1967 and as Treasurer in 1972 and 1973. He was appointed as District Deputy Grand Master for the Second Masonic District, serving from 1973 to 1979. Elected R.W. Junior Grand Warden in 1982, he continued through the Grand Line and was elected and installed as the 99th Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania on Dec. 28, 1987, serving until Dec. 27, 1989.

Bro. Kurtz set many goals for his term as Grand Master, focusing on teamwork, the continuation of the Solomon II Project, a visit to the Grand Lodge of Ireland, shorter meetings and an expansion of services at the Masonic Homes in Elizabethtown. Additionally, he supervised the creation and publication of the third book in “The Master Builders” series by Dr. Wayne Huss, which included biographies of all of the R.W. Past Grand Masters of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.

Perhaps the greatest legacy of his tenure as R.W. Grand Master was the establishment of the Independent Living Community at the Masonic Homes in Elizabethtown. A model home was opened for inspection on Oct. 22, 1988, during Autumn Day. This was to significantly change the operation of the Masonic Homes, as it set the stage to dramatically expand its “Mission of Love” and service to the 190,000 members of the fraternity over which he presided.

August 2014

Bro. Kurtz was proud of his service on the Committee on Masonic Homes for eight years, and it was no surprise when he and Jane eventually chose to reside there.

Because of his travel and circulation among the brethren, his term became known as a “Celebration of the Family of Freemasonry,” which was the theme of his Grand Master’s Medallion. Bro. Kurtz was proud of his affiliations with the appendant and concordant bodies of Freemasonry and was fervent in showing respect for all brother Masons, regardless of where they chose to be active in the fraternity.

In the York Rite, Bro. Kurtz was a member of Perseverance Chapter No. 21, Royal Arch Masons; Harrisburg Council No. 7, Royal and Select Master Masons; and Pilgrim Commandery No. 11, Knights Templar. He was an active participant in Trinity Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine; the Royal Order of Jesters; and Harrisburg Chapter No. 76 of the National Sojourners.

Bro. Kurtz presided as Thrice Potent Master of the Harrisburg Lodge of Perfection in the Valley of Harrisburg, and was coroneted an Honorary Sovereign Grand Inspector General of the 33° of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, on Sept. 27, 1978, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was elected an Active Member of the Supreme Council on Sept. 29, 1983, in Milwaukee, Wis., and was appointed to serve as Deputy for Pennsylvania on Sept. 25, 1991, at Indianapolis, Ind. On Sept. 27, 1994, he assumed Active Emeritus status in Cleveland, Ohio. He was also active in Zembo Shrine Temple, serving as President of the Zembo Luncheon Club in 1976 and as Illustrious

FREEMASON 17 Potentate in 1983.

Bro. Kurtz received the 33° Cross of Honor, the Chapel of the Bronze Medallion, the prestigious Pennsylvania Franklin Medal in 1990, and most recently the Medal for Distinguished Service from the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction of the Scottish Rite in 2011.

Bro. Kurtz was buried with military honors on May 21 at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. Masonic services were conducted by Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, and memorial services held at the Masonic Village were officiated by Grand Chaplain A. Preston Van Duersen.

A man of honor, faith, thoughtfulness and humor, Bro. Kurtz loved and cared deeply for his wife and family, as well as his beloved fraternity. In closing his Inaugural Address, Bro. Kurtz paraphrased the letter of the Apostle Paul to the Philippians, fourth chapter, 8th verse, and therein summarized the path of his own life, in these words: “Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there be any excellence, if there be anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

“What you have learned and received and heard and seen in our fraternity, do these things, and the God of Peace will be with you.”

Amen, and so mote it be.

Then-Grand Master Arthur Kurtz (holding the shovel full of dirt) during the groundbreaking for the Independent Living Community at the Masonic Homes in Elizabethtown on March 9, 1989.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Annual Youth Appreciation Day 2014 On May 30, a day filled with smiles, the youth of the Masonic Children’s Home and the donors who give their support were honored at th 91st Annual Youth Appreciation Day. The event began in the Brossman Ballroom with light refreshments, musical performances by the children and an invocation

by Grand Chaplain A. Preston Van Deursen, director of pastoral care at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. The audience was then led in the Pledge of Allegiance by the girls from the Balliet Cottage. The presentation of awards then took place, followed by senior presentations and graduation certificates.

The awards presented this year recognized youth for everything from scholarship and good behavior to athleticism, creativity and citizenship.

To complete the program, the audience viewed a beautiful video of the six seniors’ years at the children’s home. Jeanne, Andre, Jacob, Steve, Arthur and Conrad each spoke, sharing some of their experiences at the children’s home.

Jeanne is looking forward to completing her state exams and practicum hours to become a licensed cosmetologist. She will continue her cosmetology training at the Empire Beauty School in Lebanon. Jeannie joined the children’s home in ninth grade.

She is grateful for the career opportunities and the support that the children’s home has given her. Jeannie has been sponsored by Mt. Lebanon Lodge No. 226.

Andre has learned how to build character and the importance of instilling trust in others through playing varsity sports and living at the Masonic Children’s Home. He enjoys public speaking, and will study political science at West Chester University. Andre was sponsored by Perseverance Lodge No. 21, Harrisburg.

“I want to thank Masonic Village for giving me the opportunity to dream and make a difference,” Andre said during his speech.

Since being sponsored by Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, and moving to the children’s home in 10th grade, Jacob’s dedication to his academics has won him the Underclass Award for U.S. History II. Jacob was also selected for membership in the National Society of High School Scholars and awarded the Northwest Regional Police Scholarship. He will pursue his dream of becoming a police officer by attending Penn State Harrisburg’s criminal justice program.

During his speech, Jacob said, “I am thankful for my house parents and the friendships I will take with me as I graduate.

I am very grateful, and I am sure the other

children are, too.”

Throughout his high school years, Steve participated in plays, talent shows and pep rallies. He choreographed his own hip-hop dance routine that he performed at several talent shows. Out of the spotlight, Steve played varsity basketball and soccer. Steve will be attending Central Penn College to continue enhancing his theatrical talents.

He joined the children’s home in tenth grade and was sponsored by Lamberton Lodge No. 476, Lancaster.

During his senior year, Conrad attended a full-day program at the Lancaster County Career and Technology Center focusing on automotive repairs. He came to the children’s home eight years ago, sponsored by Lamberton Lodge No. 476. He intends to become a military mechanic, a career path which will combine his patriotic pride and his interest in a hands-on environment. “I want to thank those at Masonic Village for their direction and friendship,” Conrad said.

Inspired by his love of sports and writing, Arthur is looking forward to attending Bloomsburg University in the fall, where he plans to major in mass communications.

A strong athlete, Arthur was recognized by the Lancaster Lebanon League two years in a row as a football all-star. He also broke

FREEMASON 19

August 2014

Elizabethtown Area High School’s record for the long jump. He was sponsored by Lodge No. 9, Philadelphia, to come to the children’s home in ninth grade.

These seniors have the opportunity to pursue higher education because of funding from generous donors and the Masonic HomesPatton School Alumni Association.

Later in the afternoon, Jeanne, Andre, Jacob, Steve, Arthur and Conrad planted a tree on the grounds of the children’s home, a lasting symbol of their ties to the Masonic Children’s Home and the community in which they grew into fine young adults. The tree also commemorates all those who helped them achieve their goals.

Centennial Campaign Goal Reached During the Youth Appreciation Day awards ceremony, Grand Treasurer Jeffrey Coy announced that a donor had made a generous pledge that week, which meant the Masonic Children’s Home Centennial Campaign reached its goal of raising $10 million! The Masonic Children’s Home thanks everyone who contributed to this campaign’s success.

While the campaign has come to a close, donors still have the opportunity to join the Masonic Children’s Home Centennial Society by making a planned gift to the children’s

home. Members of this honorary society are recognized permanently through the inscription of their name(s), or their honoree’s name(s), in the Centennial Society Garden, which was added to the children’s home in 2013.

Please contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454 or giving@masonicvillages. org to receive more information about joining the Centennial Society.

Left: Masonic Children’s Home youth gather for a group photograph prior to Youth Appreciation Day. Above: The graduating seniors, along with Children’s Services Director Virginia Migrala, Board Member Bro. Thomas Toscani and Grand Master Robert J. Bateman, plant a tree on the grounds of the children’s home.

Below: Rev. and Bro. A. Preston Van Deursen shares a message with the seniors before presenting them with a gift.

20 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason

Food Drive Partnership Pilgrim Chapter, Order of DeMolay, Harrisburg, recently partnered with Masonic District 2 to hold a food drive in the Harrisburg area for the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank.

Thanks to the cooperation and support of Scott Matincheck, D.D.G.M.-2, and the local lodges, over 300 pounds of food was collected between Jan. 1 – March 1, and donated.

The young men decided on this community service initiative as part of observing DeMolay Month in March. When they delivered the food, they stayed and helped to pack 600 boxes for homebound seniors.

Jobie’s Sensational Summer

Louesa Piatak, Grand Bethel Honored Queen, is driven in the Gettysburg Memorial Day parade, while Scott Fair, D.D.G.M.-42 and several lodge officers walk behind.

year, Job’s Daughters from Bethel No. 7, Manheim, helped Manheim Lodge No. 587 register local children for the CHIP program.

Community Lodge No. 744, Broomall, wants to give young women in their area the benefits of an organization such as Job’s Daughters International. The Freemasons and young women in the area are on their way to chartering a new bethel, and are already looking forward to the activities that they can hold together, just as other lodges and bethels do in Pennsylvania.

Time spent together is what makes for a stronger bond between the girls and the Masons who provide them with their heritage, for Job’s Daughters International is the only organization for young women that requires all of its members to be related to a Master Mason. The Daughters cherish this unique relationship.

Job’s Daughters enjoy the time spent with their Masonic family, and bethels across the state participate in an array of activities with their local lodges.

The lodges in Butler hold a family picnic each summer at Alameda Park and Pool, and the Daughters of Bethel No. 21, Butler, are always excited to be invited. In Gettysburg, Daughters of Bethel No. 12 and members of Good Samaritan Lodge No. 336 walk together in the Gettysburg Memorial Day parade, a tradition they have had for many years. Job’s Daughters and Freemasons even get together to host fund raisers. In Hershey, Brownstone Lodge No. 666 held its chicken barbecue fund raiser in conjunction with Bethel No. 17’s bake sale. Job’s Daughters also love when their local lodges invite them to participate in community service events with them. This

Job’s Daughters and members of Good Samaritan Lodge No. 336 formed the Masonic delegation in the Memorial Day parade.

New Rainbow Assembly Constituted On April 6, Lehigh Valley Assembly at Macungie was constituted. The assembly is sponsored by the Eastern Star chapter and lodge that meet in the Lehigh Lodge building.

Bro. Eugene Herritt, R.W. Senior Grand Warden, represented Grand Lodge, and Mrs. Helen Beth Vilcek, Associate Grand Matron, represented The Grand Chapter, Order of Eastern Star of PA. Rainbow Grand Officers, Rainbow Girls, parents, Masons and Eastern Star members were part of the 100 in attendance. It was a beautiful ceremony, and the official Charter was presented. Diana Jolly, Past Grand Worthy Advisor, was the acting Supreme Officer and delivered excellent ritual work. Following this ceremony, the assembly was officially declared Lehigh Valley Assembly #190. The Grand Officers then had the honor and privilege of installing the first officers of the assembly.

August 2014

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION 21

DeMolay Grants Highest Honor to 36 Leaders

The 2013 Eastern Legion of Honor Conferral was held in Reading on Oct. 5.

By the unanimous vote of DeMolay International, 11 Pennsylvania Masons will receive the Honorary Legion of Honor and 25 Senior DeMolays will receive the Active Legion of Honor.

The Honorary Legion of Honor is conferred upon a Master Mason who has performed unusual and meritorious service on behalf of DeMolay or who has evidenced a spirit of cooperation and appreciation for the Order of DeMolay. The Active Legion of Honor is conferred upon a Senior DeMolay, recognizing outstanding leadership in some field of endeavor or success in fraternal life. Recommendations were received from DeMolay Chapters by Bro. Thomas R. Labagh, Executive Officer in Pennsylvania, who makes the official nominations to DeMolay International.

The Honorary Legion of Honor Designates for 2014 include: Gary L. Dukeman, D.D.G.M.-5 Larry M. Miller, P.M., George Washington Lodge No. 143, Chambersburg Donald C. Wobb, P.M., Duquesne-McKeesport Lodge No. 731, Duquesne Nicholas Vaccarello, P.M., Grand Commander of Grand Commandery, Knights Templar in Pennsylvania William F. Harner, P.M., Chairman of Northeast Chapter Advisory Council David A. McDade, J.W., Prince Edwin-Spring Creek Lodge No. 486, Middletown, & Advisor for Pilgrim Chapter James R. Shaw, D.D.G.M.-7 James S. Roberts, P.M., Westmoreland Lodge No. 518, Greensburg Jerry J. Hamilton, P.M., Past Grand Commander of Grand Commandery, Knights Templar in PA Edward J. Stumm, P.M., Grand Tyler for the Grand Lodge of PA William H. Weichsel, P.M., Most Puissant Past Grand Master of the Grand Council Royal & Select Master Masons of PA The 2014 Class of Active Legion of Honor Designates includes: Ronald J. Norcross, P.M., Senior DeMolay of Wilbur Chapter & Commander in Chief of the Valley of Allentown, A.A.S.R. Kevin L. Yarnall, Senior DeMolay and Chairman of the Allentown Chapter Advisory Council Craig A. Kern, Secretary of St. John’s Lodge No. 260, Carlisle, and Senior DeMolay of Carlisle Chapter Timothy J. Settlemyer, P.M., Senior DeMolay of Tiadaghton Elm Chapter, Jersey Shore

Jay M. Laser, Senior DeMolay of Riverside Chapter Jerry Richards, Jr., P.M., Senior DeMolay of Friendship-Bray Chapter and Chairman of Chester Pike Chapter Advisory Council Christopher M. Fry, Senior DeMolay of Elizabethtown Chapter & Chairman of Elizabethtown Chapter Advisory Council Robert F. McCabe, Jr., Senior DeMolay of McKinley Chapter Ronald E. Bush, Senior DeMolay of Reading Chapter Scott E. Levy, Senior DeMolay of Somerton Chapter and Assistant Director of PA DeMolay Athletics Charles H. Johnston, Jr., Senior DeMolay of Westmoreland Chapter Rexford F. Cox, P.D.D.G.M.-30, Senior DeMolay of Westmoreland Chapter Matthew D. Dupee, P.M., Senior DeMolay of North Penn Chapter, Grand Master General, Convent General, KYCH And the following Past State Master Councilors of PA DeMolay: 1971-72 - Stephen R. Logan, Sr., Pilgrim Chapter, Harrisburg 1973-74 - Daryl R. Sycher, Allentown Chapter 1975-76 - William S. Shillady, Reading Chapter 1979-80 - Pete C. Elliott, Allentown Chapter 1985-86 - Brian K. Shaffer, Carlisle Chapter 1986-87- Andrew H. Kauffman, Friendship-Bray Chapter 1989-90 - David C. Santini, Joppa Chapter, Washington 1990-91 - William L. Reed, Garfield Chapter, DuBois 1992-93 - Steven J. Smith, Lancaster Chapter 1995-96 - A. Nathaniel Croumer, Elizabethtown Chapter 1996-97 - Robert R. Nye, Jr., Elizabethtown Chapter 1998-99 - Rakesh R. Kumar, Allentown Chapter Some of these honors were conferred at the annual DeMolay Convention in Reading in July. Two additional Legion of Honor Conferrals are scheduled for this fall. The Eastern Legion of Honor Conferral will be held on Oct. 19 in the Lodge Room at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. The Western Legion of Honor Conferral will be held on Sept. 26 at the Masonic Village at Sewickley. The public ceremony will start at 2:30 p.m. at both locations, with the Secret Vow Ceremony for Legionnaires only at 2 p.m. Light refreshments will follow both conferrals, and everyone is invited to attend. More information is available by contacting the Pennsylvania DeMolay Office at 800-266-8424 ext. 4, or emailing PA DeMolay Executive Secretary Bro. Dave Berry at dwberry@pademolay.net.

Richard J. Stemmler, Past District Deputy Grand Master of the 30th Masonic District, received the Honorary Legion of Honor at the 2013 Western Legion of Honor Conferral held at Greensburg on Nov. 2.

22 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason

Scholarship Award History Exceeds $1 Million The Educational Endowment Fund Committee of the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation exceeded $1 million in scholarship awards since the inception of the program in 1989. For 2014, the committee selected 55 students out of 168 applicants to receive $125,500 in scholarship awards. The annual program runs from Oct. 1- March 15, when applications may be submitted. This year, the applicants represented 49 counties in Pennsylvania. Recipients were: Recurring Scholarships $2,500 Grand Lodge Higher Education Fund Four-Year Scholarship Kylene Callander and James R. Conway, III $2,500 Grand Lodge Higher Education Fund Three-Year Scholarship Alexandria Polash and Aaron J. Crown $2,500 Grand Lodge Higher Education Fund Two-Year Scholarship Kelsey Schlegel, Sarah M. Morrison and Kayla K. Richwine

$1,500 Lawrence Dietrich Smith Memorial Scholarship Robert W. Miller and Branden Glass

$1,500 Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation Scholarship Alexandra Geise and Alexandra Kozak

$2,500 Raymond A. Krome Scholarship Sarah Yorks, Alexandra Agesen, Amber Rae Moody, Kristin Hayashi, Stephen D. Lane, Lacey B. Gilber and Katherine R. Berfield

$1,000 Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation Scholarship Robert M. Stover, III

$1,500 Raymond A. Krome Scholarship Nicole McFarland

Additional awards granted or recommended are as follows:

$1,000 Raymond A. Krome Scholarship Gabe Ackman $3,000 A. Ralph Taylor Scholarship Adam Saubel, Brynn M. Masten, Timothy Kile, Sharon E. Nelson, Amanda Harvey, Marissa E. Stasik and Romaynse Smith $2,000 David A. Bondzio Scholarship Sara B. Winter and Heidi D. Peters $1,000 Herman Witte Scholarship Tiffany K. Bragunier $1,000 James H. Booth Scholarship Kayla Herr $1,000 Theodore K. Warner Scholarship Brittany S. Smeltz

$2,500 Harry E. Ormston Four-Year Scholarship Tyler Mays

$1,000 Clarence R. Uhland Scholarship Steven Stewart, Jr.

$2,500 Harry E. Ormston Three-Year Scholarship Morgan McMurtrie and Zachary T. Metkler

$3,000 Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation Scholarship Antonio Tatano and Lindsay Finnegan

$2,500 Harry E. Ormston Two-Year Scholarship Matthew Felix and Amanda Lewis

$2,000 Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation Scholarship Brett J. Powell, Jeffrey C. Adams, Megan Waleff, Sari I. Buckley, Brandon Best, Tyler J. Newcomer, Brandy Shrawder and Erin Hage

Single Year Scholarships $3,000 Grand Master’s Scholarship Jennifer Bush, Meredith Wagner, Rebecca L. Colwell, Keith Means and Shelby Goldie

Kristin Hayashi, granddaughter of Bro. Martin H. Bayer, Hermann-Humboldt Lodge No. 125

l-r: Alexandria Polash; William J. Huston, D.D.G.M.-41; and James Conway III

$500 Charles & Phyllis Schaeffer Scholarship Branden Glass and Colton M. Swindler $500 Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682 Scholarship Kylee A. Bair $250 Loretta N. Scheirer Memorial Nursing Scholarship Erin Hage $500 Job’s Daughters Stillman Leadership Scholarship Romaynse Smith $500 Irene Gottschall Memorial Scholarship Jeffrey C. Adams There were many deserving students who applied, but the awards are limited to the income generated by specific funds and the Educational Endowment Fund, which grows annually through your contributions.

Applicants are evaluated on a combination of academics, financial need, community service and fraternal activity. The application and Masonic Scholarship Resource Guide for 2015 will be available for download from www.pmyf.org after Oct. 1.

l-r: Bro. Max D. Lane, S.M.C., Mount Union Lodge No. 688, Stephen’s father; Mrs. Vickie Lane, Stephen’s mother; Stephen D. Lane, scholarship recipient; Bro. Michael Kipphan, W.M., Mount Union Lodge No. 688; and Bro. Robert C. Snyder, II, D.D.G.M.-34

August 2014

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION 23

Lodge Supports PA Masonic Youth Foundation Williamson-Corinthian Lodge No. 368, Philadelphia, recently contributed $8,500 for the installation of two additional flag poles at the Masonic Conference Center-Patton Campus. On a daily basis, these flag poles will fly the Pennsylvania state flag and the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania flag. On special occasions, other flags may be flown there at the request of the youth group meeting on the campus. When the youth groups host visitors from other countries, they will have the option of sharing those flags in a display of international cooperation and fraternalism.

Over the years, the lodge has contributed tens of thousands of dollars to the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation: • Sponsored the creation of the film, “TRANSITIONS,” about the beginning of the foundation • Purchased the Allen Electronic Organ for the William A. Carpenter Chapel

• Sponsored the top two panes (the allseeing eye of God) in the stained glass window in the Carpenter Chapel • Assisted in the dedication of the Torah Ark in the Carpenter Chapel • Furnished the conference table and chairs in the Witte Conference Room, named for Herman Witte, P.D.D.G.M., a member the lodge • Sponsored the restoration of a historical painting from the 1920s for DeMolay International, which is featured in DeMolay’s national headquarters Williamson-Corinthian Lodge also supports the Philadelphia area Masonic youth groups by sending DeMolay members to the annual Key Man Conference, assisting to fund the academic Honor Roll Challenge program and contributing to each of the local groups.

Fortunate to have a well-endowed charity

fund, the lodge also gives generously each year to the Masonic Children’s Home and the Masonic Villages of Pennsylvania. Whenever asked, the lodge has always been there to financially and morally assist, and it sets a worthy example of what ALL lodges should do, proportional to their means.

Above: Members of Williamson-Corinthian Lodge No. 368, Philadelphia, and LaFayette-DuPont Lodge No. 19, of the District of Columbia, recently toured the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown and the Masonic Conference Center-Patton Campus.

They stopped for a group photograph in front of the new flag poles at the Patton Campus, sponsored by Williamson-Corinthian Lodge. (Photo courtesy of Bro. Rick S. Freedman, P.M., W.M.)

24 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

AUTUMN Saturday, September 20, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

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.

This year, we will focus on honoring our veterans. The special highlight will be the 11 a.m. dedication of the eternal flame in the Veterans Grove, including a special program honoring our military and thanking those who have sacrificed for our freedom.

Autumn Day provides the perfect opportunity to visit with family members, reunite with friends and tour parts of the 1,400-acre campus.

The Masonic Village is unable to provide wheelchairs, so please bring your own, if needed. Handicap parking is available; however, you must advise the Masonic Village on the coupon below if handicap parking is needed, so a special parking pass can be forwarded to you in advance.

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

11 a.m. program will honor veterans. Because a large attendance is expected, plan on arriving by 10 a.m. Fill out coupon to register to attend.

For Handicap or Bus Parking or Veterans Reservations Only

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. We will send you a special parking permit, if needed, which must be presented upon arrival. Veterans will be recognized.

AUTUMN DAY 2014

Name____________________________________________________________________________________ Lodge No._______________________________________________________________________________ No. of Adults_______________ No. of Children______________ No. of Veterans_______________ How many from each service branch? __ Air Force __ Army __ Coast Guard __ Marines __ Merchant Marines __ Navy

MASONIC VILL AGES 25

August 2014

DAY 2014 join us in lighting

AN ETERNAL FLAME honoring all active

military and veterans

You can still help cover the construction and maintenance of the eternal flame monument at the Veterans Grove at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. If you would like to make a donation toward the cost of the monument, please call 800-599-6454.

There are still pavers available, as well, although they might be inscribed and placed after the dedication on Autumn Day, Sept.

20. If you would like to honor or remember a beloved veteran,

12” x 18” pavers around the eternal flame can be inscribed with a special message for a $500 donation. Additionally, 8” x 12” pavers leading to and around the monument can be inscribed for a $250 donation. Contributions to the Masonic Charities are tax-deductible to the extent of the law.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to become a part of this meaningful tribute for posterity.

Eternal Flame Donation Form As a way of honoring or memorializing an individual, a paver surrounding the eternal flame or on the pathway to the Veterans Grove can be inscribed to permanently honor an individual(s) service to our country. Please complete this form and send it along with your check payable to the Masonic Charities.

Name (donor) _______________________________________________________________ Address____________________________________________________________________ City ______________________________ State __________________________ Zip ________ Phone ( ) _____________________ Email ____________________________________ Choose a paver size:  12”x18” Paver ($500) will accommodate 5 lines with no more than 20 characters per line  8”x12” Paver ($250) will accommodate 4 lines with no more than 14 characters per line

Please print paver inscription below exactly as you would like it to appear; spaces are included in character count. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Please return both completed form and check payable to the Masonic Charities to:

Office of Gift Planning • Masonic Village • One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022 • 800-599-6454

26 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

How To Choose A Retirement Community Based on Your Priorities With so many choices, selecting the right retirement community may not come easily. It is important to take time to research, find and visit a community that allows you to embrace all life has to offer; to better yourself; to express your individuality; and to explore possibilities while feeling confident in your future.

The good news is you can’t go wrong with the Masonic Villages!

Each active 60+ community provides maintenance-free living, security for the future and high-quality amenities so you can choose the community that best matches your priorities.

Priority: “I want to know what I’m getting into.”

Even before residents move into their new homes, they’re treated like family at Masonic Villages. Everyone who calls is matched with a sales team member who walks them through the moving process and answers all of their questions.

Priority: “I’ve taken care of my home for years; I want freedom.”

Comprehensive, maintenance-free living is the key to enjoying the good life. At Masonic Villages, residents trade in daily chores like cleaning, cooking, landscaping, snow and trash removal, and general fix-it projects for entertainment, new hobbies and relationships, volunteer opportunities, restaurant-style dining, lifelong learning and wellness programs.

Priority: “I don’t want to worry about the future.”

Masonic Village residents gain peace of mind knowing that no matter what the future brings, they will have access to services and care to help them keep living a fulfilling lifestyle. Access to short-term rehabilitation services and home care partners can help residents enjoy the maintenance-free comforts of their home, even if they desire a little additional help.

Residents always have priority access to health care services.

In Lafayette Hill, Sewickley and Elizabethtown, residents receive health care services on site in homelike neighborhoods. In Dallas, residents have priority access to nearby providers through strong community partnerships.

Priority: “I need space.”

Whether you’re looking forward to the freedom of downsizing or wish to keep everything you own, you have options. Masonic Villages offers homes in more than five dozen floor plans across the state.

Styles range from studio apartments to two-bedroom/den apartments with patios and almost everything in between. Select locations offer villas or cottages with two bedrooms or two bedrooms with a den, a garage, a patio, some finished basements and/or most with sun rooms.

MASONIC VILL AGES 27

August 2014

Priority: “It has to be the right price.”

With many payment and financial planning options, Masonic Villages has choices to fit a variety of budgets. The chosen floor plan and payment structure – which includes rental, entrance fee, declining balance and refund options throughout the state – both have an impact on the final cost of living at Masonic Villages. Residents’ personal sales team members can help them to choose the option that best meets their needs.

In retirement living throughout the state, one monthly service fee simplifies everyday financial planning while providing access to a host of amenities. One thing is for certain: no matter what payment option residents choose, they all have access to the same quality care and services.

Priority: “I want the community feel.”

With campus populations ranging from less than 100 to more than 1,800 residents across the state, each Masonic Village offers a unique environment. It’s best to visit the communities to experience the lifestyle for yourself. Each location offers a variety of unique amenities geared toward building a close-knit community among people with diverse interests.

Priority: “I want protection.”

While living the good life, residents want to feel financially secure. With a strong history dating back more than 140 years, Masonic Villages provides the ultimate protection for residents’ assets while giving them access to the maintenance-free lifestyle they love.

Thanks to the fraternal care program, residents whose funds deplete, through no fault of their own, can remain in retirement living and enjoy life their way at Masonic Villages.

Priority: “The location has to be perfect.”

Close proximity to friends, family or a childhood home may be just as important as the physical beauty of a community. Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill and Sewickley were carefully selected as prime locations to give Masons throughout the state convenient

access to services and captivating lifestyles at the Masonic Villages.

Each community offers the beauty and safety of suburban living, while providing access to bountiful cultural and recreational opportunities in nearby towns and cities.

Priority: “I want a full life!”

Residents are encouraged to expand their horizons by joining on-site clubs, classes, trips, volunteer opportunities and wellness programming. Residents can always share their interests with one another by creating new groups and clubs. Each Masonic Village offers a calendar of events that capitalize on the locations’ amenities, features and highlights.

With a little exploration, you can choose the community that best suits your lifestyle and satisfies all of your priorities. Learn how your priorities specifically apply to each Masonic Village campus by visiting www.masonicvillages.org or www.facebook.com/masonicvillages.

You may also call to schedule a personal visit or attend an upcoming open house: Dallas: 866-851-4243 Lunch & Learn: Sept. 4, at 10:30 a.m.

Octoberfest: Oct. 10, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Elizabethtown: 800-676-6452 Autumn Day: Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Explore Retirement Living Open House: Oct. 18, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Lafayette Hill: 610-828-5760 Lunch & Learn: Sept. 18, at 10 a.m.

Octoberfest: Oct. 7, from 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Sewickley: 412-749-6862 Ice Cream Social: Aug. 20, from 5 – 7 p.m.

Community Festival & Open House: Sept. 27, from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Lunch & Learn: Oct. 22, at 10 a.m.

Sewickley Community Festival & Open House Saturday, September 27, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Masonic Village at Sewickley, 1000 Masonic Drive, Sewickley, PA 15143 Free festival open to the community. Tickets for refreshments available for purchase.

Live entertainment by the Shriner’s Chanters & the Pittsburgh Banjo Club Wing cook-off featuring local restaurants Activities for kids include a petting zoo, bounce house, the Pirate Parrot & face painting.

Craft show featuring a variety of vendors including crafts, jewelry & home items Tours of the community will be available.

Local business participation Masonic Lodge, Shrine, Eastern Star and Masonic Youth participation Proceeds benefit Children’s Dyslexia Center, Inc.

28 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

Masonic Village at Dallas

Masonic Village at Sewickley

Masonic Village at Warminster

Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown

Brother Tim Templeton Helps Lead Masonic Villages in Expanding its Mission Across the Map Bro. Timothy P. Templeton, P.D.D.G.M., of Sharpsville, became a member of the Masonic Villages’ Board of Directors in 2009, just when the world was going through the great recession. “We were very conservative at that time until our investment funds came back,” Bro. Joseph E. Murphy, CEO for the Masonic Villages, said.

Once the economy looked up, Bro. Templeton’s expertise came into play as a member, and now as Chairman of the Building and Grounds Committee. He brings his experience as President of Templeton Construction to the table, and out to each Masonic Village location.

He also serves on the Admissions, Home Assistance and Resident Services Subcommittee and the Financial and Gift Planning Subcommittee, as well as on the Committee on Masonic Temples, Halls and Lodge Rooms.

“As District Deputy (of District 53, from 2001-2007), I enjoyed meeting people in the district and across the state and developing friendships,” Bro. Templeton said. “But I also realized, like never before, what our Mission of Love stands for, and that it is much larger than all of us combined. It became very clear and important to me, and I thought, if there’s a way I can help grow it and make it successful, I want to do that, especially being

from this (western) part of the state.”

One of the Masonic Villages’ goals is to ensure that a Mason doesn’t have to travel more than two hours to come to a Masonic Village. While there are now five locations, Bro. Templeton feels that many in western Pennsylvania aren’t aware of what is available to them, and how exceptional the villages truly are. He often hears Masons ask why they should live in a Masonic community over any other. “I tell them, ‘Not only do we have beautiful campuses and buildings, professional services and staff, but our Masonic Villages are well run and organized,’” Bro. Templeton said.

But most importantly, it’s the people who make the Masonic Villages special.

“Masonic Villages’ leadership, like the Grand Lodge leadership, starts at the top and works its way down. The staff is willing to do whatever it takes to make our residents as happy and our services as professional as they can possibly be. That’s leadership you can’t teach … it comes from within, and is something I see we have across the board in the Masonic Villages.”

This is exemplified, for example, every winter when snowstorms blanket the campuses with ice and snow. It’s not unusual to see leadership personnel driving vehicles to transport staff to and from work safely so

care and services continue uninterrupted. In some cases, staff stays overnight. This past Easter, the electricity went out at the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill. Executive Director Adrienne Staudenmayer came in to discuss the process with the electric company and the staff personally, and made the decision to order a generator. She spent the holiday with the residents instead of at home with her family, where she would have had the comfort of electricity.

“For many organizations, this would be extraordinary, but it’s ordinary for our Mission,” Bro. Templeton said. “You don’t find leadership like that every day. That comes from Joe (Murphy) … He sets that example; the staff know Joe, and he knows them. In western PA, we always say, ‘Neighbors are friends, and friends are considered family’ – that’s what we see with staff and residents (at the Masonic Villages).”

According to Bro. Templeton, most Masons don’t realize that across the state, the Masonic Villages has invested over $533 million in land, facilities and equipment for the Mission. It’s a massive undertaking to house, serve and care for 2,776 residents, as well as hundreds of others through home, community-based and outreach services, with various needs across the Commonwealth.

In addition, the Masonic Villages provide

MASONIC VILL AGES 29

August 2014

more than $31 million yearly in fraternal care and services through its Mission.

Since 2009, Bro. Templeton has been involved in almost $130 million worth of construction and renovation projects.

The $23 million state-of-the-art project at the Masonic Village at Sewickley has transformed the nursing residence from a clinical facility into warm neighborhoods.

“It’s fantastic; I believe it will make this one of the top five facilities in the country when all is said and done,” Bro. Templeton said. “We constantly strive to stay ahead of the curve.

For the Board of Directors and the Grand Lodge Officers, the residents always come first. Our Mission of Love is first, foremost and paramount.”

At the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, the $22 million expansion is “another fantastic project,” according to Bro. Templeton.

He also has been involved with the renovation of the Masonic Health Care Center and the construction of cottages in Elizabethtown, as well as planning for the Dallas and Warminster campuses.

After graduating from Clarion University in 1984 at age 21, Bro. Templeton joined Hermitage Lodge No. 810. He served as Worshipful Master in 1991. In 2001, his lodge merged to become Shenango Valley Lodge No. 810, Hermitage. He currently serves as a Trustee.

While serving on the Masonic Villages’ Board requires an extensive amount of his time, Bro. Templeton feels the experience has made him “extremely proud to be a Mason and a member of this great fraternity.”

# OF RESIDENTS AT EACH MASONIC VILLAGE Dallas 112 Elizabethtown 1,890 Lafayette Hill

216

Sewickley 497 Warminster 61 TOTAL 2,776

Left: The new Sturgeon Health Care Center at the Masonic Village at Sewickley Below: Construction at the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill

30 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

Plaque Dedication Memorializes Philanthropist Linda Haller, wife of Bro. Henry E. Haller, Guthrie Lodge No. 509, honored her late husband with a plaque located above the fire place in the clubhouse at Masonic Village at Sewickley.

After his retirement, Bro. Haller devoted his talents to philanthropy, and with Linda, established the Haller Foundation in 2000.

Bro. Haller was recognized for the support he gave to the Shriners Hospitals, several universities and other philanthropic causes.

He also spread his generosity to the Masonic Village at Sewickley. The plaque was unveiled on May 1, with Joseph Murphy, chief executive officer of Masonic Villages, and Eric Gross, executive director of Masonic Village at Sewickley, in attendance.

Numerous additional naming and recognition opportunities are available at Masonic Village at Sewickley, as well as at the Masonic Villages in Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill and Warminster. For more information on how you can honor or memorialize a loved one or provide a naming gift that will support the Masonic Villages’ Mission of Love, contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454.

AUTUMN DAY 2014 Available in August and September:

Apples, Apple Cider, Peaches, Fall Mums, Pumpkins and much more.

AUTUMN DAY 2014

1 OFF

$ 00

Your purchase of $ 1000 or more.

Valid Sept. 2023. Redeemable at the tent or in the Farm Market during the Autumn Day Festival.

Shippable anywhere in the USA: Apples, Fruit Butter, Jam, Jelly, Salsa, Salad Dressings and much more.

Check out our online catalog for more information: www.MVFarmmarket.com

MasonicVillage FARM MARKET

Hours: Mon. - Sat., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sun., Noon to 4 p.m. (through August) • (717) 361-4520 • MVfarmmarket.com 310 Eden View Rd., Elizabethtown • Located on the grounds of the Masonic Village • We accept FNMP checks

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August 2014

Qty. Capital Need Cost Per Item Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Musical Instruments $5-$500 1 Digital Keyboard Accessories $1,000 10 Specialty Mattresses $1,000 11 Stereo Systems $1,000 23 Wheelchairs - Specialty $1,000 15 Wheelchairs - Specialty with Customization $1,500 5 Bariatric Mattresses $1,600 1 Eva Pneumatic Platform Walker $1,800 4 Sleeper Chairs $2,000 2 Wheelchairs - Tilt & Space $2,000 5 Wheelchairs - Broda $2,100 2 Bariatric Ceiling Lifts $2,500 1 Portable Sound System $2,502 1 Golf Cart with Weather Cover $3,500 2 Beds - Pivot $3,700 1 MVTV Software & Hardware $4,000 2 Trees - 12 ft. High Black Olive Trees $4,500 2 Lifts - Overhead $4,667 1 NuStep Machine $5,600 2 NPWT Machines (Wound Care) $6,000 2 Pianos (Roland - Acoustic) $6,000 4 Wheelchair Glider Swings $6,000 Bariatric Equipment $10,000 1 It’s Never 2 Late Computer System $10,000 1 Treadmill for Rehab Dept. $10,200 1 Wheelchair Shuttle Cart $14,000 1 Piano (Roland - Grand) $15,000 1 Hearing Aid Loop $18,000 6 Whirlpool Tubs $22,000 1 Dental Digital Imaging $25,000 1 Call Bell System (Replacement) $146,300 1 InspectRX $186,495 BLEILER COTTAGE NEEDS 1 Refrigerator $1,300 Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill District of Columbia Museums w/lunch and transportation $2,400 Harvest Ball Event $2,500 Drama Lessons/Activities for Residents $3,000 Broadway Shows with Transportation Outing $3,700 Masonic Village at Sewickley 1 Hand Rail Tilt and Roll Scale $1,550 1 ARJO Sit to Stand Lift $4,100 1 4 Channel E Stimulation (Electric) $4,400 1 ARJO Maxi Lift $7,400 Occupancy Sensors for Apartment Hallway $20,000 Masonic Village at Dallas 1 Handicap Accessible Picnic Table $900 1 Gazebo $10,532 Masonic Village at Warminster 1 Fish Aquarium $300 1 Pergola with Awning $6,000 1 Gazebo $8,000

MASONIC VILL AGES 31

MASONIC VILLAGES’

2014

WISH LIST ITEMS OFFICE OF GIFT PLANNING

800-599-6454

Thank you to the following individuals who have provided for the following items since the last issue: Masonic Children’s Home: Bro. Jack and M. Ellen Koehler: Adirondack Chairs, Cameras, Computer Chairs, Bedroom Door, Kindles, Laptops, Mattress Covers, Movie Screen, Patio, Shutters and Educational Trips to include Juniata River Float, Hershey Park and Wildwood, N.J. Masonic Village at Elizabethtown: Bro. Joseph Darlington: Tablecloth Albert and Betty Hoehn: Door Alarm Bro. Richard Holt: Bariatric Shower Chair, Tablecloths, Washer/Dryer Set, Tilt and Space Wheelchair Bro. Richard and Donna Kellenberger: Tablecloth Bro. Ronald McKnight: Various Non-specified Items Rosemary Merwin: Golf Cart, Supplies for Hospitality Cart Retirement Living Resident’s Council: Hospitality Cart Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill: PA Meridian Lodge No. 2: Baltimore Aquarium Trip There is an all-inclusive wish list posted on the Masonic Charities website at www.MasonicCharitiesPA.org, or feel free to contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454.

Please note that if funds donated for any item listed are oversubscribed, the funds will be used for additional wish list items or needs in the same service area.

Guaranteed Lifetime Income What Is It?

 A “Charitable Gift Annuity”—a special type of irrevocable charitable gift that pays donors for life

What Are The Benefits?  Guaranteed, fixed lifetime income  Tax savings

Who Has Participated?

 Hundreds of Masonic and non-Masonic donors

Why?

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

What Are The Minimums?

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

SAMPLE GUARANTEED LIFETIME RATES For One Life For Two Lives Age Rate Age Rate 70 5.1% 70 & 75 4.8% 75 5.8% 75 & 80 5.3% 77 6.2% 85 & 85 6.7% 81 7.0% 85 & 90 7.3% 85 7.8% 90 & 90 8.2% 90+ 9.0% 90 & 95 8.8% Note: This is a partial listing. Rates exist for any combination of ages.

COMPLETE AND MAIL THIS FORM TO:

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

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

Where Can I Get Information?  Call Masonic Charities at 800-599-6454, or mail attached reply form.

www.MasonicCharitiesPa.org Financial information about Masonic Charities can be obtained by contacting us at 1-800-599-6454. In addition, Masonic Charities is required to file financial information with several states. Colorado: Colorado residents may obtain copies of registration and financial documents from the office of the Secretary of State, (303) 894-2680, http://www.sos.state.co.us/. Florida: SC No. 00774, A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE, WITHIN THE STATE, 1-800-HELP-FLA. Georgia: full and fair description of the programs and activities of Masonic Charities and its financial statement are available upon request at the address indicated above. Illinois: Contracts and reports regarding Masonic Charities are on file with the Illinois Attorney General. Maryland: For the cost of postage and copying, documents and information filed under the Maryland charitable organizations laws can be obtained from the Secretary of State, Charitable Division, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401, (800) 825-4510. Michigan: MICS No. 11796 Mississippi: The official registration and financial information of Masonic Charities may be obtained from the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office by calling 1-888-236-6167. New Jersey: INFORMATION FILED WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL CONCERNING THIS CHARITABLE SOLICITATION AND THE PERCENTAGE OF CONTRIBUTIONS RECEIVED BY THE CHARITY DURING THE LAST REPORTING PERIOD THAT WERE DEDICATED TO THE CHARITABLE PURPOSE MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE ATTORNEY GENERAL BY CALLING (973) 504-6215 AND IS AVAILABLE ON THE INTERNET AT www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ocp.htm#charity. REGISTRATION WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT. New York: A copy of the latest annual report can be obtained from the organization or from the Office of the Attorney General by writing the Charities Bureau, 120 Broadway, New York, NY 10271. North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 1-888-830-4989. Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of Masonic Charities may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free, within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Virginia: Financial statements are available from the State Office of Consumer Affairs, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23218. Washington: The notice of solicitation required by the Charitable Solicitation Act is on file with the Washington Secretary of State, and information relating to financial affairs of Masonic Charities is available from the Secretary of State, and the toll-free number for Washington residents: 1-800-332-4483. West Virginia: West Virginia residents may obtain a summary of the registration and financial documents from the Secretary of State, State Capitol, Charleston, WV 25305. REGISTRATION IN THE ABOVE STATES DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION OF MASONIC CHARITIES BY THE STATE.