Freemason - February 2011

The Pennsylvania

February 2011 • Volume LVIII No. 1

R.W. Grand Master Thomas Sturgeon and his wife, Joan, Invite You to Attend a

Masonic Reunion

For Pennsylvania Masons, Wives and Widows who now reside permanently in Florida or who visit there during the winter months

HIGHLIGHTS Information on services provided by the Masonic Villages of the Grand Lodge

of Pennsylvania • Exciting updates on the Masonic Village at Dallas; the Sycamore Apartments, Sycamore Square Marketplace and new cottage construction project at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown; and renovations to the nursing care residences at the Masonic Village at Sewickley • Representatives from the Office of Aging to share information on local services • Free blood pressure screenings

SPECIAL HIGHLIGHT Grand Master Sturgeon will present 50-Year, 60-Year and

70-Year Masonic Service Emblems and 75-Year Diamond Jubilee Awards. He will also preview upcoming programs. (If you are eligible to receive a milestone Service Emblem in 2011, or if you did not receive it when you were eligible in a previous year, please call the telephone number below.)

REUNION SCHEDULE Thursday, March 17, 2011

Tampa Airport Marriott Hotel, Tampa

Friday, March 18, 2011

Sahib Shrine Center (Sahib Temple), Sarasota

Saturday, March 19, 2011

Palm Beach Gardens Marriott, Palm Beach

Each reunion features a reception (11 - 11:45 a.m.) followed by lunch (11:45 a.m.) and a program (1 - 2 p.m.)

If you have any questions, please contact the Masonic Villages at (717) 367-1121, ext. 33849.

MEMBERSHIP GROWTH INCENTIVE AWARDS Masonic Renaissance Blue Necktie for being a first line signer on a petition: 1,951 Masonic Renaissance Orange Necktie for being a first line signer on two petitions: 444 Masonic Renaissance Green Necktie for being a first line signer on three petitions: 268 Masonic Renaissance Red Necktie for being a first line signer on four petitions: 238 $50 savings bond for being a first line signer on five petitions: 18 Congratulations to Bros. Richard Shannon and W. Roy Smith, both of George M. Dallas Lodge No. 531, and Michael J. Stramara, Schuylkill Lodge No. 138, Orwigsburg, who each earned a Masonic wrist watch for being first line signers on 10 petitions!

THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON® VOL. LVIII, FEBRUARY 2011, NO. 1

©2011 The R.W. Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of PA

Inside this Issue...

EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W.G.M. Jay W. Smith, R.W.D.G.M. Robert J. Bateman, R.W.S.G.W. Raymond T. Dietz, R.W.J.G.W. Jeffrey W. Coy, R.W.G.T. Mark A. Haines, R.W.G.S. EDITORIAL STAFF Tina L. Raybold - Production Coordinator Rich Johnson - Graphic Designer Thomas R. Labagh - Executive Director, PMYF, Consultant Masonic Library & Museum of PA Staff (Publication No. USPS 426-140) February 2011 Issue of The Pennsylvania Freemason ® Published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Articles and photographs to be considered for publication should be sent with local Masonic authority to the address above, to the attention of the The Pennsylvania Freemason ® or e-mailed to pafreemason@ masonicvillagespa.org. Except by special arrangement, all articles, photographs and artwork become the property of the Grand Lodge.

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

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.

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• Message from the Grand Master • One Day Masonic Journey • Help for Our Heroes • December 2010 Quarterly Communication • A Modern-Day Renaissance Man: Bro. Ernest Borgnine

12 Pennsylvania Freemason

• Is it Right to Claim Freemasonry is a Religion?

• Supporting a Peaceful Sanctuary for All

16 Lodge and District

• Opening the Cornerstone of the Keystone State • Contributions • Congratulations • Community Service • Happenings Around the State • A New Option for Today’s Donor

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP (Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United States Code) February 1, 2011, The Pennsylvania Freemason ®, published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Publishers: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Editor: Thomas K. Sturgeon. Owner: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Known bondholders: none. No advertising handled. Free distribution averages 134,000 each quarter.

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

Thomas K. Sturgeon, Editor

25 PA Masonic Youth Foundation

• DeMolay Class Honors Grand Master Sturgeon • Bethel Welcomes Visitors • Spend Time with Your Granddaughter • Rainbow: Welcome Back, Altoona! • Some Things Old, Some Things New • The Lasting Impact of LifeSkills

28 Masonic Villages

• 2011 Wish List Items • Gillmore Leads Elizabethtown Village • Retirement Living Options Expand • Autumn Day 2010 • Encouragement & Support Key to Successful Rehabilitation

Mailing address changes

If your address on the back cover of this magazine is not exactly as you have provided it to us, please be aware that addresses are modified through the various mailing process requirements required by the U.S. Postal Service.

If you have any questions or would like to inform us of a change in address, please contact the Office of Gift Planning at (800) 599-6454 or giving@masonicvillagespa. org.

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

Subscribe to the online edition! www.pagrandlodge.org

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

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Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

Grand Master Sturgeon addresses the attendees of the One Day Masonic Journey in Pittsburgh

A scene from the One Day Masonic Journey in Philadelphia

The Grand Master States: “The Renaissance is Working!”

Brethren, For the first time in 50 years, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania experienced positive growth in 2010! As a result of our brethren’s acceptance and promotion of the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance, more men not only became aware of our fraternity, its tradition, charity and good works – but they decided that they, too, wanted to be part of it.

During the past 30 years, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania has averaged an overall decrease of 3,384 members per year. In 2010, we broke a 50-year trend by showing an increase of 449 members!

Why did this occur?

I authorized members to engage in selective invitation, permitting brethren to invite a man of good character to join this fraternity.

I did this because I believe it is essential that Masons work on visibility and community involvement to modernize our image.

Some members did not agree with this change, but many understood the need to embrace it. At each of the 25 Renaissance Visitations I made across the state earlier

this year, about five or six brethren came to see me afterward, and each told me a similar story: “I would have joined (10, 15, 25) years ago if I’d known how. My (dad/grandfather/ uncle) was a Mason, but I never knew I had to ask. Now that I am, he’s not here to see it.” I believe these men who came forward represent a very small percentage of those who have had the exact same experience.

On Dec. 28, 2009, when I took office as your Grand Master, I promised to demonstrate that: “It is possible to preserve our rich history and heritage while also modernizing it within the 21st century culture and strengthening it for future generations.” Well, I believe I have fulfilled that promise, but I certainly have not done it alone. I asked for your help, faith and cooperation, and so many of you have contributed that and more. I ask you to continue with me on this path: stay involved and visible in our communities so we can grow and share this fraternity we all love.

Our work, however, is not done. The 21st Century Masonic Renaissance requires teamwork, brotherly love and good old-

fashioned hard work. We must continue to mentor our new members, encourage them to participate and grow in Freemasonry.

We must also continue to work hard to preserve the quality of our ritual work so we can pass along our meaningful traditions to future generations. We have made strides in this area, as more than 3,500 of the newly instituted proficiency pins were awarded in 2010. I was thrilled to hear that we had to order more than expected to acknowledge the many brethren who have taken the initiative to learn our beautiful ritual and sustain our heritage. I believe that having the ritual available in written form has made it easier and more convenient for our aspiring brethren to become proficient.

Let us continue to work together in unanimity to further the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance in 2011!

Sincerely and fraternally, R.W. Grand Master

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Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

The Grand Master Further States:

One Day Masonic Journey Leads to Success!

At the One Day Masonic Journey on Oct. 30, 2010, a total of 1,937 men were raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. Many went on to join the Scottish Rite and the Shrine.

Held in 13 different locations across the state, the ritual presentations were expertly conferred by “all-star” teams who demonstrated exemplary work.

Many thanks to the site coordinators for each location: Bro. Larry Newhard, Allentown; Bro. Mark A Pine, Altoona; Bro. Paul E. Reichart, Bloomsburg; Bro. John Wells, Coudersport; Bro.

Kim W. Jeffreys, P.D.D.G.M., Erie; Bro. Ken Beard, P.D.D.G.M., Harrisburg; Bro. Robert Marziano, Jr., P.D.D.G.M., New Castle; Bro. Gary Davis, P.D.D.G.M., Plymouth Meeting; Bro. Thomas M. Gasmire, P.D.D.G.M., Pittsburgh; Bro. L. Donald Loos, Jr., Reading; Bro. Gordon Coniff, P.D.D.G.M., Scranton; Bro. Timothy L. Shumar, Uniontown; and Bro. Ronald A. Aungst, Sr., R.W.P.G.M., Williamsport.

P I H S R E B MEM

I also extend my sincere appreciation to every brother who signed a petition, mentored a candidate throughout the day or helped in one of countless other ways. You all should be proud of your service and our accomplishment!

!

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A scene from the One Day Masonic Journey in Reading

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Pittsburgh: R.W. Grand Master Stu rge greets brethren bo th new and “seaso on ned.”

Photo by Bro. Ken Br ooks

Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

g at the senior livin am C. a r, e y o h M ined Abra : Michael Harrisburg hildren’s Home, jo by Bro. Dave Berry Phila de C Masonic dge No. 682. Photo greets 93-y lphia: Grand Ma o ster Sturg L ear-old Bro r le C h o ic llingswoo Tre eon .W Lodge No d, N.J., who joine alter Balliet of West . 751. Pho d Joseph H to by Bro. Bruce Lev . Brown in

Gran d Mas ter’s Message to New Breth ren:

R.W. eman, tephen t a B t J. er; S Rober hony Weav Sturgeon. . o r : B den; Ant er Tom elphia r t Philad Grand Wa rand Mas r G o i n d e n n i S ile; a ce Lev Amab y Bro. Bru b Photo

the One Day en socializing at hr et Br a: hi lp de e Levin Phila Photo by Bro. Bruc Masonic Journey.

I say it again - Welco me! I encou rage you to take advan tage of the many benefits of memb ership in this great fratern ity. Contin ue to learn, find ways to get involv ed and remem ber: the more you put into it, the more you’ll get out of it. As full-fl edged memb ers, you have the right and privil ege of inviti ng other deserv ing men into our fold - our family - and I encou rage you to do so! The more we grow our lodges, the greater our ability to impac t our comm unities and our world. I hope you enjoy Freema sonry as much as I have over the past 46 years and find it equall y meani ngful and rewarding.

Harrisburg: Bros. A. Natha niel Croumer, a member since age 21, and his brother , Bro. John W. Croumer, who joined during the One Day Masonic Journey. Both Past Master Councilors of Elizabethtown, Order of DeMolay, they are now both members of Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682. Pho to by Bro. David Labagh

Harrisburg: Bros . and his stepf Christopher B. Setnar ather, Gregory Photo by Bro. Dav Vanek. e Berry.

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Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

HELP FOR OUR HEROES

Your donations to Help for Our Heroes continues to provide pre-paid calling cards to our brave men and women serving overseas. According to Bro. and Col. Harris H. Brooks, fewer troops are being deployed from Pennsylvania through McGuire Air Force Base, so instead of sending 150 cards there each month, we are only sending them as requested. However, Bro. Brooks said, “The war is not over.” The cards previously provided to troops deploying to the war zone are now being sent to those who are wounded and being cared for at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany. “While we’re sending less troops from our state into M r. the war zone, unfortunately those who are h t i w e long there are still subject to injuries,” Bro. dge, a rds you hav o l r u i ng ca n k yo Brooks said. “They need and deserve our to tha , for the ca l l t n a Iw ou a nd Leiter y . continued support.” r y b M nd yI at e d Boa l a sent me. ppreci exac tl y wh rs. a s i y e l s t This fall, the Grand Lodge er v ic ich i em b e r e c en d m y s e lodge - wh h as you r m a l g e partnered with Americans 4R Marines, a b c I’m will of t h ls su c a rd s mbers of i nd iv idua e e h not-for-profit, all-volunteer organization T m . e e th k y ou becaus o tha n t that supports both the Marines and t s er v e n a ,Iw A ga i n use. the Navy Hospital Corpsmen assigned go o d to the Marines in the field. Founded s p ut t o y ation a i n se mu n ic S rA H m o in 2006, Americans 4R Marines C t omba 271st C works directly with the Generals , and Sgt. Majors deployed to send Pa A n g n. u rgeon reciatio mas St p o p h a T f products ranging from those of o r m t he a ste token r a nd M sh a red m a l l r t a nd o G d p r n p basic humanity needs to products a a u e s s s D y ou r av e c a rd er e t h at h you for phone to lift morale of entire units/ T ha n k he pre-pa id of m y u n it k now that th ize ed t e to b er s e c og n t battalions in the most remote iv ic r e m n c e t s e a m y r h a t I el low e. It is a lw tates he suppor t a f s 2 e h h and hostile areas of the Middle t t T in wi om he u ntr y. s ba ck ere. T en a t h East. ch i ld r y suppor ter ng for ou r co le ser v i ng h e i n the i n c p a re ma ice we a re do ld to the peo uge d i f feren rom ou r The Marines and h v f r the ser ea ns the wo is ma k i ng a bei ng apa r t . e s m r n e Corpsmen they support are i e e k a hom e ag i ng h ple. It ma a r e do ou onc usually hundreds of miles job we the Iraqi peo le. T ha n k y i f from a main military base; l ives o es wor thwh l l y, n g he y a t er n a r f loved o d n Conau they live in caves, tents or a c y M l e n r S i nc e el A la a h c make-shift outposts with i er M OM Br o t h FORSC R concrete barriers. Many A S ES U SGT R

have no source of electric and/or plumbing. They live for months on MREs and sleep on the rocky, graveled ground holding tight to their weapons.

Their version of a “shower” consists of two minutes beneath a five-gallon bag of water.

Americans 4R Marine’s largest one-time shipment is their annual “Merry Christmas Marines and Sailors,” which in 2010 provided 5,300 stockings, filled with small tactical gear and other useful products, valued at over $100 each.

On Oct. 25, 2010, R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon and Bro. and Col. Brooks, on behalf of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, presented Patricia Lewis, Founder/President of Americans 4R Marines, with $5,000 worth of pre-oiled rifle/pistol cleaning cloths that are more effective in the desert than those provided by the Department of Defense. In a show of appreciation, Ms. Lewis presented Grand Master Sturgeon a certificate thanking the Grand Lodge for its generous contribution.

Americans 4R Marines also provides support to wounded heroes, builds memorials to honor fallen heroes and supports spouses and children of deployed Marines and Sailors during each of the holiday seasons.

Help for Our Heroes also provided $1,000 to Ohio Rainbow for Girls’ service project, raising funds for the Honor Flight Network. This not-for-profit organization honors our veterans by flying them to see their memorials in Washington, D.C., at no cost to them. It takes $10,000 to fund one flight of 40 veterans.

Please, keep those donations coming! While we currently have fewer troops abroad, those who are there still need our support. Let’s show them that not only are they not forgotten, but they are appreciated and honored by those of us who benefit from their sacrifice!

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Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

Bro. Robert A. Burns, District Deputy Grand Master for District A, proudly presents a check to Grand Master Sturgeon, on behalf of the lodges in his district, for the Masonic Villages.

December Quarterly Communication

District Deputy Grand Masters Donate Funds Raised by Lodges for Masonic Villages On Dec. 1, 2010, at the December Quarterly Communication in Philadelphia, the District Deputy Grand Masters reported that a total of $723,323.86 had been raised, donated and pledged from the lodges toward the Grand Master’s charity initiative for the year, most of which will benefit the Masonic Villages.

In response, R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon said, “I am extremely proud of the hard work our lodges and districts across the state do to support our Masonic Charities. The many hardworking, selfless efforts of our brethren demonstrate our individual and collective commitment to the many good works our charities were founded to provide and perpetuate.”

Grand Master’s Remarks During the meeting, Grand Master Sturgeon provided the following remarks to the brethren: “Last December 28th, I stated to all Pennsylvania Masons that if you will follow my lead and be willing to be tolerant of change, be understanding of my plan, and to go to work to rebuild Pennsylvania Freemasonry, we will be successful.

“The 21st Century Masonic Renaissance is a success: Pennsylvania Freemasonry is on the move!

“Some will credit our success to Dan Brown and his very successful novels. I believe that

novels like ‘The Lost Symbol’ did not hurt us, but they also are not responsible for our increase in membership.

“Our increase is due to the hard work of your Right Worshipful officers, the heavy work load and dedication of the District Deputy Grand Masters, and the acceptance of a new way of doing things by the membership across the state.

“Throughout this year, I have taken a reasonable amount of criticism. But I was committed to the Renaissance in December, and I continue my commitment today, regardless of the critics. One of the most revered Freemasons of all time, Bro. George Washington, stated, and I quote: ‘Leading by conviction gave me a consolation within, that no earthly efforts can deprive me of. The arrows of malevolence, however barbed and well pointed, can never reach the most vulnerable part of me.’ The thoughts of that great American Freemason have sustained my faith in the Renaissance throughout this year.

“There are those who have expressed concern that by initiating more men, we are forfeiting quality for quantity. I reject that assumption.

“Let’s look at the facts. This year, (2010) we have initiated 4,393 new Masons. In the year 1920, we initiated 19,383 new Pennsylvania Masons, and in 1946, we took in 16,280. We all acknowledge that both of these years were following a major

world war and the men coming home found Freemasonry to be something important in their lives. Those are huge numbers of new Masons and I ask you: Were they men of quality? They fought to preserve our American freedom, and if you ask me, these veterans were men of quality!

“Let me share a few more statistics with you. From 1919 until 1928, this Grand Lodge averaged 10,668 new members each year. From 1944 until 1953, we averaged 11,207 new members.

If you think we did a good job this year, let me remind you that this Grand Lodge has had nine years in the last 100 years where we took in over 10,000 new members. Consider this, if you will: there have been 61 years in the last 100 where this Grand Lodge took in more new members than we did this year.

“And yet this is the first time in more than 50 years that we have seen an increase in membership.

I believe that more men have chosen to join Freemasonry because they have finally had the opportunity to learn about it, understand it and were encouraged to pursue their interest in it!

“As your Grand Master, I am proud of what we have accomplished. The men we have welcomed into this great fraternity are of exceptional quality, and it is my honor to call each one of them, ‘Brother.’ Thanks to each of you for your dedicated efforts to rebuild this great fraternity.”

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Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

Random Photographs from the December Quarterly Communication Taken by Bro. Bruce Levin

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Photo 1: The Grand Lodge was pleased to welcome The Honorable Mayor and Bro. Michael Nutter, who gave brief remarks.

Photo 2: Waiting to be introduced are, left-right, new District Deputy Grand Masters: Barry W. Littleford, District 12; Robert J. Neff, District 45; John W. Hawk, District 33; and John W. Wells, II, District 22.

Photo 3: Grand Master Sturgeon welcomes State Representative and Bro. Dwight Evans.

Photo 4: A large contingency of brethren from the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, Prince Hall Affiliate, attended the December Quarterly.

Photo 5: At the banquet following the December Quarterly Communication, Grand Master Sturgeon presented Bro. Ernest Borgnine with the Pennsylvania Franklin Medal. See pp. 10-11 for a biographical sketch of this Renaissance man!

Photo 6: Grand Master Sturgeon and Grand Master Heard recess out together. Grand Master Sturgeon sported a Philadelphia Eagles jersey he received from the District Deputy Grand Masters in the Philadelphia region, which he promised to wear in Grand Lodge if their lodges raised significant funds for the Masonic Charities.

Photo 7: R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon presents M.W. Grand Master Heard, Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, Prince Hall Affiliate, with the Gavel he was given at the Annual Communication on Dec. 28, 2009. Upon accepting the “Unity Gavel” for his use at Prince Hall Grand Lodge sessions, Grand Master Heard provided remarks.

Photo 8: Retiring District Deputy Grand Masters, from left-right: Guilford G. Rowley, Jr., District 33; James D. Gustafson, District 22; and Donald W. Weaver, District 45, are escorted to the East by Grand Marshal Jon A. Fair. Grand Master Sturgeon recognized them for their service to Grand Lodge and the membership. Bro. William H. Brandt, Sr., District 12, was honored in absentia.

Photo 9: On behalf of the Grand Lodge of Florida, Grand Master Sturgeon presented Bro. Richard Fitzsimmons, District Deputy Grand Master for District 24, with a commendation recognizing him for his “Act of Kindness” as he assisted a stranded stranger, who is a member from Florida, while he was in Erie.

Photo 10: Grand Master Sturgeon made two Masons at Sight, shown with Jeffrey W. Coy, Grand Treasurer: the Honorable David N. Wecht, Administrative Judge, Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, and the Honorable Keith R. McCall, 136th Speaker of the State House of Representatives. Each received the three degrees in Freemasonry conferred by the officers and District Deputy Grand Masters of the Grand Lodge.

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Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

A Modern-Day Renaissance Man: Brother Ernest Borgnine A successful actor on both television and the big screen, Bro. Ernest Borgnine’s career has spanned more than six decades. So has his Masonic journey.

He was born Ermes Effron Borgnino on Jan. 24, 1917, in Hamden, Conn., to Charles and Anna, who had emigrated from Italy. Growing up, Ernest enjoyed most sports, especially boxing.

After graduation from James Hillhouse High School in New Haven, Conn., Ernie worked a few factory jobs and drove a vegetable truck. At age 18 and undecided about his future career, Borgnine joined the U.S. Navy in 1935. He was honorably discharged in 1941, but re-enlisted when the United States entered World War II and served until 1945 (a total of 10 years), reaching the rank of Gunner’s Mate 1st Class. He served aboard the destroyer USS Lamberton (DD-119). His military decorations included the American Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Service Medal with Fleet Clasp, and the World War II Victory Medal.

After the war was over, Ernie’s mother suggested that his strong personality could make him suitable for a career in acting. With help from the G.I. Bill, he enrolled at the Randall School of Drama in Hartford, Conn. After completing the course, he auditioned and was accepted to

Robert Porterfield’s famous Barter Theatre in Abingdon, Va., where he stayed for four years. At first he took odd jobs painting scenery, working as a stagehand and driving truck before getting a shot at playing in numerous classics such as “State of the Union” and “The Glass Menagerie.” He traveled with the company to entertain the U.S. servicemen in Germany and Denmark. His big break came in 1949, when he made his Broadway debut playing a male nurse in “Harvey.”

In 1951, Bro. Ernie (he joined the fraternity in 1950) moved to Los Angeles to pursue a movie career, and made his film debut as Bill Street in “The Whistle at Eaton Falls.” Ernie made his TV debut in “Captain Video and His Video Rangers” in 1951. His career took off in 1953 when he was cast in the role of Sgt. “Fatso” Judson in “From Here to Eternity.” After numerous supporting roles in a steady string of dramas and westerns, in 1955, Bro. Ernie starred as a warm-hearted butcher in the film version of the television play “Marty.” His performance gained him an Academy Award for Best Actor despite strong competition from James Dean, Frank Sinatra and former best actors Spencer Tracy and James Cagney. He also won the British Academy Film Award for best foreign actor, Golden Globe Award for best actor in a motion picture drama, National Board of

Review of Motion Pictures Award for best actor and New York Film Critics’ Circle Award for best actor. Years later, reflecting on his mere $5,000 salary for playing the lead in “Marty,” he said, “...

I would have done it for nothing.”

Bro. Ernie performed memorably in such films as “The Catered Affair” (1956) and “Emperor of the North” (1973). He is the only actor to star in all four of “The Dirty Dozen” films (1967, 1985, 1987 and 1988). On television, he is best known for playing LCDR Quinton McHale in the popular series “McHale’s Navy” from 1962-66.

One of his most famous film roles became that of Dutch, a member of “The Wild Bunch” in the 1969 western classic.

In 1984, he co-starred as Dominic Santini in the TV action series “Airwolf,” and in 1995, he was cast in the comedy “The Single Guy” as doorman Manny Cordoba. In 1996, he was inducted into the Western Performers Hall of Fame at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City, Okla.

His career includes appearances in more than 200 motion pictures, five television series, dozens of made-for-TV movies and guest appearances, as well as voice overs in animated films such as “All Dogs Go to Heaven 2” (1996) and “Small Soldiers” (1998). Since 1999, he has voiced the

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Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

character Mermaid Man in the animated TV series, “SpongeBob SquarePants,” a role which reunited him professionally with good “McHale’s Navy” buddy, Tim Conway.

In 2007, Bro. Ernie starred in the Hallmark original movie, “A Grandpa for Christmas.” He received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television for his performance. At 90, he was the oldest Golden Globe nominee ever.

His 2008 autobiography, “Ernie,” is a New York Times best seller.

In 2009, at age 92, Bro. Ernie starred in the last two episodes of the long-running NBC medical series “ER.” His performance garnered his third Emmy nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series. In August of that year, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Rhode Island International Film Festival at the Providence Screening of his new film, “Another Harvest Moon.”

In October 2010, Bro. Ernie appeared as himself in a sketch on “Saturday Night Live” and appeared in his latest movie, “Red,” which was filmed earlier that year.

Most recently, on Jan. 30, 2011, at the age of 93, he received the Screen Actors Guild’s Life Achievement Award given annually to the actor who fosters the “finest ideals of the acting profession” for his career and humanitarian accomplishments.

Bro. Ernie also has been awarded several honorary doctorates from colleges across the United States; a street was named in his honor in his hometown of Hamden, Conn.; there is a Mexican-themed restaurant in New York City with a shrine dedicated in his honor; and he has his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

When not acting, he actively supports numerous charities and speaks tirelessly at benefits throughout the country.

An active Freemason, Bro. Ernie is a 60+-year member of Abington Lodge No. 48, Abington, Va., and is also a member of Hollywood Lodge No. 355, Los Angeles. He said he has always been proud to be a Freemason, and to have been honored with the 33° of the Masonic Order. He has served as the Honorary Chair of the Scottish Rite Ritecare program, which sponsors 175 childhood language disorders clinics, centers and programs nationwide.

From 1972–2002, Bro. Ernie marched in Milwaukee’s annual Great Circus Parade as the “Grand Clown.”

In 1996, he purchased a bus and traveled across the U.S. to see the country and meet his many fans. He also served one year as the Chairman of the National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans, visiting patients in the Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers. Bro. Ernie has

volunteered to be the Stories of Service national spokesman, urging his fellow World War II veterans to come forward and share their stories. He still maintains contacts with old shipmates from his Navy destroyer days, and was recognized for his support of the Navy Memorial Fund with the Lone Sailor Award from the Navy Memorial Foundation. In 2000, the Veterans Foundation elected him Veteran of the Year.

On Oct. 15, 2004, Bro. Ernie received the honorary rank of U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer from Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Terry D. Scott—the U.S. Navy’s highest ranking enlisted sailor at the time—for Bro. Ernie’s support of the Navy and naval families worldwide.

On Feb. 5, 2007, he received California’s highest

civilian honor, the California Commendation Medal.

It was presented to him by Major General William H. Wade II, Adjutant General and Commander of the California National Guard, for a lifetime of exceptionally meritorious service as well as recognizing Bro. Ernie’s “heartfelt advocacy on behalf of military personnel and veterans on many fronts, including the California National Guard.”

“Regardless of his fame and success, he continues to demonstrate great humility, a heart for charity and a sincere love for the Craft and his fellow man,” R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon said in explaining why he honored Bro. Ernie with The Pennsylvania Franklin Medal at the December 2010 Quarterly Communication.

After receiving the award, Bro Ernie, in a hand-written note to Grand Master Sturgeon, said, “I cannot, in simple language, say what is in my heart, to thank you and my Brothers for the honor you bestowed on me. What a tribute, and what a moment that was, with all the super Brothers from different parts of the world! ... I shall always try to live up to the great standards it represents!

Sure was a great moment for me, and I thank you again for being such a great Mason and Brother.”

Bro. Ernie has been married to Tova Traesnaes since Feb. 24, 1973. Tova is QVC’s on-camera spokesperson for her own Tova Cosmetics line. The couple resides in the same Beverly Hills home that he bought in 1965. Despite his accomplishments and advanced years, Bro. Ernie has no intention of slowing down anytime soon.

Sources: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ernest_Borgnine, freemasonsfordummies.blogspot.com, imdb.com/ name/nm0000308/bioscottishrite.org/council/journal/ jan01/cijan.html, webpages.marshall.edu/~will2/ freemasonry.html.

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Is it Right to Claim Freemasonry is a Religion?

by the Rev. Dr. Jerry Belloit, Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, professor and ordained minister of the United Methodist Church The popularity of Dan Brown’s “The Lost Symbol” and “The Da Vinci Code” have inspired a number of History Channel and Discovery Channel specials on various aspects of Freemasonry.

Perhaps this is the cause of the precipitation of those who, under the guise of religion, argue that Freemasonry is a religious cult. A decade ago, it was John Ankerberg who produced eight titles of anti-Masonic material. Partly as a response to his television ministry attacking Freemasonry, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania adopted a resolution at the Quarterly Communication on Dec. 2, 1998, entitled “Freemasonry and Religion,” http://www.pagrandlodge.org/programs/masedu/ freemasonryreligion.html.

More recently, material attacking the Craft from Ron Carlson has been distributed to several of our brethren. In some of his material, he makes a resolution admonishing Christian pastors and leaders to preach against the “Cult of Freemasonry—a rival religion.” I believe that his resolution has many erroneous premises.

Below in bold blue type is each of Ron Carlson’s premises and my personal response to them as a Christian, a pastor and a Mason. Since this is a Christian attack, I will limit my response to a Judeo-Christian perspective.

WHEREAS, Freemasonry declares that its Deity, the “Great Architect of the Universe,” can be worshiped by all men, whether they be Buddhist, Christian, Moslem, or Hindu, without controversy; while the Bible teaches that only

through Jesus Christ can God be worshiped; According to the 1998 statement, Freemasonry “requires of its members belief in God as part of the obligation of every responsible adult.” This, in my opinion, is not incompatible with the teachings of the New Testament. Jesus prayed to Yahweh.

There are numerous references to God-fearers in the New Testament (see Acts 10, the story of Cornelius). God-fearers were not condemned and were educated to love Christ. The entire Christian church in Jerusalem worshiped Yahweh. They also worshiped Jesus. I lift up these points to show that the Bible does have references to religious tolerance. As the Grand Lodge statement reads, “Masonry believes in religious freedom and that the relationship between the individual and God is personal, private and sacred.” In this country, most of our members are Christians, Muslims and Jews. I would point out that all three of these faiths have their origins with Yahweh, the God of Abraham.

There is an old rabbinical teaching that Jesus would have known that teaches religious tolerance. “Once a stranger came into Abraham’s camp. Abraham showed the man the customary hospitality and fed him and provided a tent for him to sleep in for the evening. After dinner, the stranger retired to his tent and took out his idols to worship before he went to bed. A servant walked by the tent and saw the man worshiping the idols and reported this to Abraham. Enraged, Abraham had the man taken from the tent, beaten and thrown into the outer darkness. God saw

what Abraham had done and told Abraham, “Go get the man, bind his wounds, and let him stay the night in the tent you provided. If I can put up with him, you can too!”

The 1998 statement from the Grand Lodge goes on to say the following on the topic: “Masons believe that there is one God and that people employ many different ways to seek, and to express what they know, of God. Masonry primarily uses the appellation, ‘Grand Architect of the Universe,’ and other non-sectarian titles, to address deity.

In this way, persons of different faiths may join together in prayer, concentrating on God, rather than differences among themselves.” and WHEREAS, Freemasonry refuses to acknowledge the unique Godhood of Jesus Christ or that He died for our sins and rose from the dead; while the Bible teaches that Jesus Christ is truly God Almighty come in the flesh who died for our sins and rose again; I know of nothing in Freemasonry that denies the unique Godhood of Jesus Christ. Freemasonry is not a religion, and therefore does not need to dwell on specific religious beliefs other than the belief in a single supreme being. and WHEREAS, Freemasonry denies the unique and inerrant character of the Holy Bible as the Word of God by saying that it is no better or worse than any other holy book; while the Bible teaches of itself that it is truly the inspired Word of God;

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Where does Freemasonry do this? Because we allow those of other faiths to take their obligation on other religious books does not make any statement that the Holy Bible is not the Word of God. The use of the sacred volume of the faith of the initiate is symbolic of the seriousness of the obligation the initiate takes. If we asked a Christian to take an obligation on the Koran, how seriously would the initiate take the obligation? and WHEREAS, Freemasonry declares that man can be saved by his own labors and good works without faith in Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross; while the Bible teaches that a person can only be saved by grace, through faith in Christ; Freemasonry does not ever talk about salvation. Since Freemasonry is not a religion, it has no reason to address the salvation of the soul. As the 1998 Grand Lodge statement says, “It does not claim to lead to salvation by works, by secret knowledge, or by any other means. The secrets of Freemasonry are concerned with modes of recognition, not with the means of salvation.” and WHEREAS, Freemasonry blasphemes the name of God by associating it with pagan fertility gods such as Baal; while the Bible affirms the absolute holiness, separateness and majesty of God’s name; Freemasonry does not ever talk about Baal or any other fertility god. The only references to anything sexual I can think of is the prohibition against eunuchs and libertines and prohibition against violating the moral code of chastity. Both examples are certainly within the mainstream of the Christian faith. and WHEREAS, Freemasonry refuses to warn its members about the dangers of an everlasting hell; while the Bible is insistent and urgent in its warnings concerning the dangers of damnation; Since Freemasonry is not a religion, why would it warn its members about hell? Do the Lions Club, Kiwanis, Rotary or any other social clubs? and WHEREAS, Freemasonry requires that men swear oaths on a Bible in the name of God involving mutilation and murder of human beings; while the New Testament forbids the taking of oaths and the Bible forbids taking God’s name in vain and committing murder; This is blatantly false. None of us would ever have become a Mason if we had to swear an oath to commit murder. The penalty is symbolic only. and WHEREAS, Freemasonry links its members in solemn, spiritual bondage to one another, irrespective of members’ creeds; while the Bible forbids Christians from being “unequally yoked” with unbelievers; I have some serious reservations about the

extension of the two scriptures Carlson offers on this issue. First the scripture, II Cor. 6:14-17, is one where Paul warns against the Alexandrian practice of blending two religious traditions.

This was a problem in the church at Corinth.

Basically, it was derived from Alexander’s practice of trying to show how the Hellenistic beliefs were actually the same as the religions of those whom he conquered.

I have not seen how Freemasonry tries to tie its teachings to any particular religion; more importantly, in this direct context, I don’t see how Freemasonry is claiming in any way to be a religion at all. To the contrary, it takes care to be sure that it is not a religion. and WHEREAS, Freemasonry forbids a Christian Mason from witnessing Jesus Christ to his fellow lodge members who are unsaved; while Jesus Himself commands His church to preach the gospel to everyone; Many groups and organizations do not allow the persuasive discussion of religion. School teachers are not allowed to witness to their faith.

In most schools, the teacher is not allowed to even publicly display a Bible. Should teachers (or any other worker) quit their jobs because they are not allowed to witness to their faith?

Obviously this is nonsense. There is, however, nothing to prevent sharing your faith outside of the school property. How is that different from a lodge meeting? You are free to witness outside of a lodge meeting. Carlson’s argument would actually be stronger if Freemasons were allowed to share their faith in lodge. You could then make more of an argument that Freemasonry was therefore a religious meeting. and WHEREAS, Freemasonry insists on keeping its supposedly valuable truths bound under the most serious of secret oaths and available only to a very few; while the Bible does not allow for such secrecy; What valuable truths are we not allowed to share with anyone? In fact, I would argue that we are obligated to share the moral lessons we are taught (Closing Charge). Ritual is private.

However, we are to share the moral lessons. Those are the only valuable truths. I might also point out that some aspects of many religious faith traditions, like confession, are also private and upheld by the courts. and WHEREAS, Freemasonry demands that its members call its leaders titles like “worshipful master,” and kneel before them; the Bible commands us to call no one master, save Jesus, and to worship none, save God; This is absolutely false. No one ever worships the master of the lodge. The title “Worshipful Master” is given to one who is to be worshipful,

not to be worshiped. We kneel at the altar, not before people. We worship God, not people. and WHEREAS, Freemasonry absorbs the loyalties, time, emotional and spiritual resources and finances of “Christian” Masons away from the God-ordained tasks of the Church such as overseas missions, evangelism, and taking care of the poor to the glory of Jesus’ name, I think it is clear that Freemasonry does a significant amount for the poor. As far as diverting our finances, yes this is true. Money spent on Freemasonry or its charitable causes does leave less money to give to the church. We are asked by our Christian faith to give a tithe (1/10th) and offerings. We are not all asked to give everything and live a monastic life. It is true that Jesus asked the Rich Young Ruler to sell all that he had and give it to the poor, but that was only because he was worshiping money, wealth and power.

Therefore, we, as humble servants of Jesus Christ and ministers of the Gospel call upon all pastors and Christian leaders of all denominations to take a firm stand in their preaching against the cult of Freemasonry – a rival religion to Christianity which has too long been winked at, tolerated, or even praised within Christian churches!

I have highlighted the words cult and religion above. A cult applies pressure on its members to remain in the cult and is often directed by a particular charismatic, authoritarian leader.

Freemasonry does not pressure its members to remain Masons, nor do we have a consistent “charismatic, authoritarian leader.”

I think Carlson’s claim that Freemasonry is a rival religion is really the core issue to his and other people’s attack on Freemasonry. Clearly Ron Carlson believes that Freemasonry is a religion.

Once again, I refer to the Grand Lodge statement in 1998: “Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. … Freemasonry lacks the basic elements of religion: (a) It has no dogma or theology, no wish or means to enforce religious orthodoxy. (b) It offers no sacraments. (c) It does not claim to lead to salvation by works, by secret knowledge, or by any other means. The secrets of Freemasonry are concerned with modes of recognition, not with the means of salvation.

Freemasonry supports religion. Freemasonry is far from indifferent toward religion. Without interfering in religious practice, it expects each member to follow his own faith and to place his duty to God above all other duties. Its moral teachings are acceptable to all religions.”

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Thank You, Brother Mike & Linda Mattes, for Supporting a Peaceful Sanctuary for All Walk down a path of discovery and Bro. Mike has found that the same is exploration. Flowers burst from the ground true for the Masonic fraternity throughout in waves of colors and a kaleidoscope of the world. Bro. Mike was also born in shapes. A warm breeze carries the sweet scent Easton, but at a young age, his father was of roses and the soft kisses of a splashing recalled into the submarine service during fountain. The whispering fountain and the Korean War. Bro. Mike and his mother chatting birds calm your soul. As the sun moved to San Diego. After the war, the breaches the horizon and casts its golden family moved back to Easton, where Mike rays, the stone turns to gold. It opens your finished his high school years. eyes to the beauty surrounding you.

After graduation, Bro. Mike joined Photographs come close to capturing a four-year toolmaker apprentice program the glory of the Formal Gardens at the and attended Penn State University in the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, but much evenings. “A lot of fellows I worked with like the rest of the campus, you can only were Masons,” he said. The men had great discover its true beauty by experiencing On Autumn Day, Sept. 25, (left-right) R.W. Grand Master Thomas personalities and caring natures. “They K. Sturgeon, Bro. Mike, Linda, Worthy Grand Matron Paula went above and beyond to help a young the gardens yourself.

Kauffman and Worthy Grand Patron John Berger gathered for a On Sept. 11, 2010, Bro. Mike Mattes man learn a trade.” At age 26, he was photograph by the plaque in the Formal Gardens. and his wife, Linda, unveiled a plaque and raised a Master Mason. dedicated the Formal Gardens “for the of charity provided through the Calypso Chapter, While Bro. Mike worked at the Bell enjoyment of all who visit this peaceful sanctuary” which first triggered her interest in the Eastern & Howell Company, he also served in the Army as part of a named endowment provided in their Star. Years later, she joined the chapter.

National Guard for six years. He always wanted Will. In doing so, they helped to secure the future In the meantime, she developed a crush on to broaden his knowledge and explore his first of the Masonic Villages, Masonic Children’s a young man whom she formally met during his passion – electronics, so he earned an associate Home and the Masonic Library and Museum of senior year of high school. After dating for three degree in applied science from Northampton Pennsylvania. years, Linda married the young man, Bro. Mike, in (Area) Community College while he worked full “This fraternity deserves it,” said Bro. Mike, a 1967. She got her beauty license, but realized that time. For the next 20 years, Bro. Mike worked in member of Easton Lodge No. 152. “If you look at all her passion was to be an LPN, so she went back manufacturing engineering, eventually becoming they do and all they provide – what the fraternity to nursing school. She now works at a continuing manager of the department. Then wanting to help stands for – we wanted to help perpetuate that.” care retirement community. the customers, he spent another 22 years as a senior As a member of Calypso Chapter No. 163, Linda likes the fellowship she has found support engineer. This career took him all over Bethlehem, Order of the Eastern Star, Linda also through the Eastern Star. “I like the charity,” she the world to train, troubleshoot, instruct, install has strong ties to the Masonic family. As a child said. “They help you when you’re down and out and provide technical support for mail processing living in Easton, her friend’s mother told stories and provide compassion.” machines. To resolve a particular machine problem,

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Mike invented a device that earned him a patent.

Bro. Mike enjoyed visiting new places and liked them all. On occasion, Linda would join him in his travels to places like Venezuela, Japan and California, but her favorite location was Alaska.

“Oftentimes in my travels, I would look up lodges to see if there were any in the area and when they had meetings,” Bro. Mike said. He attended lodge meetings in many countries, including Japan, and found a unifying trend among all Masons: “It was such a good feeling that you could relate to brothers all over the world,” he said. “It was like you’d known them forever.”

Bro. Mike retired three years ago, but may be busier now than when he worked full time.

He enjoys remodeling projects, helping people solve their computer problems for free and taking day trips with his brother-in-law, especially to Philadelphia and visiting the Grand Lodge. Bro. Mike joined his township’s volunteer fire company as a volunteer fire policeman. He pioneered for the fire company to have a website, which Bro. Mike now manages. Recently, he was appointed to his township’s budget advisory committee. “We love to help people wherever we can,” Bro. Mike said. “We are just average people who care about our fellow man.”

Bro. Mike has also become an amateur wine maker. Bro. Mike and Linda both love spending time outdoors, and Linda particularly enjoys tending to plants and flowers on their four-acre property.

They have two Yorkshire Terriers that keep them busy and a homemade gel candle business called Candle Pantry, LLC. Bro. Mike and Linda first became familiar with the Masonic Villages, Masonic Children’s Home and the Masonic Library and Museum through pictures and articles in Masonic publications. “The museum is phenomenal,” Linda said. Several years

“This fraternity deserves it,” said Bro. Mike. “If you look at all they do and all they provide – what the fraternity stands for – we wanted to help perpetuate that.” ago, they saw the children’s home for the first time on a bus tour during Autumn Day. For the last six months of his life, Bro. Mike’s father lived at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.

“He loved it there and spoke very highly of it,” Bro. Mike said. “That’s when I first saw the beauty of the [village]. … Just to see what they provided was amazing.” The attention to detail in the dining room and the underground tunnels that provide indoor transportation in poor weather impressed the couple.

Even though he always knows the answer will be positive, Bro. Mike likes to ask residents what they think of living at the Masonic Village. His favorite response to date was: “This is like being on a cruise ship out in the middle of a corn field.”

That type of response confirmed their decision to inquire about an annuity through a mailer they received. Joyce Michelfelder, Director of Gift Planning – East Region, called to discuss how other options might benefit the Mattesses more because of their young age. After talking and a second phone call, Joyce suggested that they begin to consider their estate planning. “This started us thinking, ‘What should we do with our assets and worldly goods?’” Bro. Mike said. “It didn’t take us too much thinking.”

“For all the fraternity does, it was the first thing that came to mind,” Linda said.

The Mattesses are grateful to Joyce for her guidance and for connecting them to Bro. Clifford

Scott Meyer and Bro. Bill Kingsbury, both of Melita Lodge No. 295, Philadelphia, who provide legal services for the Grand Lodge. “They really did all the legal work,” Bro. Mike said. “Especially Bill’s guidance was really instrumental in helping us to zone in on what the fraternity needed most.”

“Everybody’s been great there,” Linda added.

She was especially touched when she mentioned off-handedly to Joyce that it would be nice to have some children at the plaque unveiling. When they arrived at the Formal Gardens on Sept. 11, a boy and girl from the children’s home met them. “They’re so sweet,” Linda said. “That was really special.”

When asked why they chose the Formal Gardens as their naming opportunity, Linda did not hesitate: “Because I’m an outdoor girl who loves to be barefoot!”

“From the first time we were out there at the Grand Lodge Hall and looking out over the gardens, it was so peaceful and serene,” Bro. Mike said. “For all to enjoy, that’s why we did it. It adds to the beauty of the campus.”

As the Matteses stood by their everlasting stone, a small voice rung out. “Thank you,” said the boy with big brown eyes. While he could not have comprehended the significance of the Matteses’ donation, he knew that their gift, and others like it, gives him a chance to grow and succeed in life.

“One of my favorite sayings is ‘the children are our future.’ I’m so relaxed to know we’re contributing to the children,” Linda said.

“We can’t think of anything better,” Bro. Mike agreed.

R.W. Grand Master Sturgeon thanked and congratulated the couple on their thoughtful and selfless gift. “There’s a need for all Pennsylvania Masons to consider gifts in estate planning to continue to ensure the fraternity and the Masonic Charities will flourish into the next century,” he said.

ACADEMY OF PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC KNOWLEDGE LODGE OF RESEARCH The Spring 2011 meeting of the Academy of Masonic Knowledge is scheduled for March 19, in the Deike Auditorium of the Freemasons Cultural Center at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Registration will open at 8:30 a.m. with the program beginning at 9:30 a.m. A lunch (voluntary contribution) 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 speakers for this session will be announced at a later date.

Pre-registration is required.

To pre-register, simply e-mail Bro. Jim Standish at stndsh@ comcast.net with your name, address, lodge number, telephone number and e-mail address. Or, send this same information to Bro. Jim Standish at: 1 Pierce Court, Glen Mills, PA 19342-1787.

Mark your calendar! The Fall 2011 meeting of the Academy will be held on Oct. 29, 2011, at the same location. The speakers will be announced later in the year.

The next meeting of the Pennsylvania Lodge of Research F.& A.M., will be held on June 4 at the Cumberland Valley Lodge No. 315, 41 Stewart Place, Shippensburg, PA. The schedule: 8:30. – 10 a.m. Registration and pre-meeting coffee and danish 10 a.m. – Noon Stated Meeting Noon – 1 p.m. Lunch ($10) The meeting is open to all Lodge of Research members and all Master Masons.

Dress is jacket and tie.

Registration to: Bro. James Standish 1 Pierce Court, Glen Mills, PA 19342 (610) 805-6304 Contact via e-mail: stndsh@comcast.net

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Opening the Cornerstone of the Keystone State Bro. and President George Washington once said, “Associate yourself with men of good quality if you esteem your own reputation, for ‘tis better to be alone than in bad company.” Freemasons in Greene, Fayette, Washington and Westmoreland Counties have been heeding this advice for decades, and even centuries.

Southwestern Pennsylvania still bears the influence of this great man and others of his time.

Take a step back in time to explore the lodges in this region of Pennsylvania and the significant impact the area has played in our national history.

GREENE COUNTY As the southwestern-most county in Pennsylvania, Greene County is known as the cornerstone of the Keystone State. It boasts historic buildings, the Greene River Trail through old coal fields and the Monongahela River to the east, which helped the local economy.

Settlers from Virginia and Maryland first claimed the Greene County area, even while the Warrior Trail, now used for hiking, originally provided a trade route for Native Americans. Named in honor of Gen. Nathaniel Greene, the county was created in 1796, after settling debates for the property between Virginia and Pennsylvania and sectioning land from Washington County.

Waynesburg, the county seat, rests in the center of the county and is home to Waynesburg Lodge No. 153, which was constituted in 1817. Both are named in honor of Bro. and Gen. Anthony Wayne, whose victory over Native Americans at Fallen Timbers (in Ohio) made it possible to settle to the west of the Ohio River.

Waynesburg Lodge takes pride that it has never gone dark. During a period of local anti-Masonic sentiments, its members persevered by meeting on the upper floor of a downtown building where they could pull the ladder up into the ceiling after all of the members had arrived.

Now with 290 members, this lodge donates to the Masonic Villages, its local Toys for Tots affiliate and the Blue Riot motorcycle club, and helps members when needs arise. In past years, the lodge has averaged zero to two new members a year, but in 2010, with the additional interest stirred by the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance, Waynesburg Lodge gained seven new members and has multiple new prospects.

FAYETTE COUNTY When 22-year-old Bro. and Lt. Col. George Washington led an expedition of colonial militia in a surprise attack on a detachment of French soldiers in what is now Jumonville, Pa., in Fayette County, on May 28, 1754, the skirmish started the French and Indian War. Approximately six miles northwest of the battle site rests present-day Uniontown, where Fayette

Lodge No. 228 was constituted April 10, 1848. The county was named in honor of Bro. the Marquis de Lafayette, in tribute to his bravery and influence during the Revolutionary War. The 250 members of Fayette Lodge have recently focused their efforts on participating in walks to benefit local organizations and in community blood drives. Like the Founding Fathers, “We try to be better men and help move our country in the right direction,” Bro. Will E. Scarlett, Secretary, said.

Laurel Lodge No. 651, Uniontown, was constituted June 20, 1907. That year, Bro. Theodore Roosevelt was President, Bro. Charles W. Fairbanks was Vice President and Bro. Samuel W. Pennypacker was Governor of Pennsylvania. The town shares a birthday with the nation – July 4, 1776.

Uniontown sits along the old National Road, present-day U.S. Route 40, running from Cumberland, Md., to Wheeling, W. Va., which provided a means to travel west and increased prosperity, commerce and settlers along it. As a gateway to the rest of America, Fayette County fueled the Industrial Revolution with its coal and coke industry, which drove steel manufacturing.

The area maintains a work ethic that takes pride in a hard day’s work for fair wages.

Journeying north on U.S. Route 40 leads to Brownsville, and over Dunlap Creek Bridge, the oldest cast iron bridge in America. A Mason owned the foundry which helped to build the bridge in 1839.

A block and a half away rests Brownsville Lodge No. 60, constituted in 1794. The first Worshipful Master of the lodge was Bro. Chade Chalfant, whose grandfather emigrated to America in 1690 from England and was given a large tract of land by William Penn.

The brothers in this lodge reflect the work ethic of the area. Several years ago, the lodge had fallen on hard times. It met in an old church building which desperately needed repairs, and membership fell to 130 at one point. “We were able to pull ourselves up by our bootstraps,” Bro. Eddie T. Stevenson, P.M., Secretary, said. The 150 current members have made improvements to the lodge building and participate in community celebrations and numerous parades.

East of Uniontown, Connellsville was founded in 1806 along the Youghiogheny River and made into the county’s first city in 1911. At the time, about 22,000 residents, ample railroads, streetcars and a booming coal and coke industry made the city prosperous. James Cochran Lodge No. 614, constituted April 28, 1897; King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346, constituted Dec. 8, 1864; and Marion Lodge No. 562, constituted Dec. 20, 1882, all meet at the new Pleasant Valley Masonic Center in Connellsville.

Marion Lodge has helped the country through many historic events, having given donations to

sufferers of the Charleston, S.C., earthquake of 1886, the Johnstown Flood of 1889 and the San Francisco disaster of 1906. Members supported World War I by donating to the Red Cross and Grand Lodge War Relief fund and investing in Liberty Bonds. The brethren of Marion Lodge still serve the community today.

WESTMORELAND COUNTY In 1773, Westmoreland was the last county created by the proprietary government in Pennsylvania which intended to obtain control of western Pennsylvania so Virginia would not seize the land for itself. Westmoreland is called the “Mother County of Western Pennsylvania” because so many counties were formed from its territory.

Westmoreland Lodge No. 518, constituted Dec. 27, 1872, and Philanthropy Lodge No. 225, constituted Oct. 18, 1847, both meet in the Greensburg Masonic Center. Noteworthy members of Westmoreland Lodge include Bros. John S. Sell and James L. Ernette, who both had the honor of serving as R. W. Grand Master.

East of Greensburg, Ligonier heralds an impressive history. At Fort Ligonier, Gen. John Forbes built a fortification to support 5,000 troops as they seized Fort Duquesne, a French citadel at the fork where the Allegheny and Monogahela Rivers join to form the Ohio River. On Oct. 12, 1758, the French and Native Americans attacked Fort Ligonier, met defeat and retreated to Fort Duquesne, which they burned and abandoned. This occupation on Nov. 25, 1758, reopened the gateway to the west.

Ligonier Lodge No. 331, constituted May 13, 1859, celebrated its 115th anniversary in 2009.

The lodge’s first Worshipful Master, Bro. George S. Kemble, was a local doctor who later served in the Civil War. He donated his officer’s sword to the lodge and the Tyler used it for about 50 years. More than 50 other members of the lodge fought in the Civil War. With 330 members in 2010, the lodge has become one of the fastest growing in the state.

“Freemasonry is a great opportunity for men to come together and put their minds together to make a difference in their communities,” Bro. Joshua S. Freeman, then-W.M., said. The lodge’s main charities in 2010 included participating in the Adopt a Resident Program and donating to the Masonic Villages.

In northern Westmoreland County, Lower Burrell, chartered Jan. 12, 1959, is home to Bethel Lodge No. 789 and Tyrian Lodge No. 644. Tyrian Lodge predates the city by more than 50 years, with a constitution date of June 22, 1906.

The 46 warrant members of Bethel Lodge, constituted Dec. 17, 1960, met in the social hall of the Bethel United Methodist Church, giving the lodge its name. Two years later, the lodge moved into its current building. The 246 members help with

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the local CHIP program, host an annual gun raffle through the Masonic Hall Association, organize a bike ride and car cruise and honor their ladies with an appreciation dinner.

Irwin, a community with strong ties to the mining industry, is located southwest of Bushy Run Battlefield. During Pontiac’s War, Native Americans revolted against the colonies and controlled the frontier. In August 1763, when Native Americans attacked Col. Henry Bouquet’s Army in Bushy Run fields, Bouquet’s victory led to the colonists regaining control of the land west of the Allegheny Mountains.

Shidle Lodge No. 601 was constituted in Irwin Nov. 29, 1893, and named after prominent Pittsburgh Mason, Bro. Geter C. Shidle. That year, Bro. Shidle’s widow presented the lodge with a Bible which is still in its library. As the largest lodge in the 30th Masonic District with 560 members, Shidle Lodge has not had a repeat Worshipful Master since 1899.

“As the outgoing Worshipful Master, any time I needed help, if I asked, it was given unquestioningly above and beyond my expectations. [Shidle Lodge] is a great band of brothers who give everything they can to each other and the community,” Bro. Vince Grudowski, then-W.M., said.

Shidle Lodge strongly supports the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation, particularly the Rainbow Girls. They host an annual spaghetti dinner which raises about $3,000 to support local food banks and Meals on Wheels, a Christmas party and the Rainbow Scramble Golf Tournament.

West Newton, located south of Irwin and incorporated in 1842, was the scene of massacres

by Native Americans during Pontiac’s War. Blythe Lodge No. 593 was constituted there on June 27, 1892.

The industrial city of Monessen sits on a curve of the Monongahela River in southwest Westmoreland County. Monessen Lodge No. 638, constituted Nov. 23, 1905, boasts 140 active and passionate members. They participate in the Uniontown May Day Parade and the Monessen Veterans Parade. With two spaghetti dinners, the members raised more than $15 per member to donate to the Masonic Villages.

WASHINGTON COUNTY Originally part of Virginia, Washington County was formed from Westmoreland County on March 28, 1781, as the first county organized after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The county has borne the name of Bro. and Gen. George Washington since eight years before he was president.

When Bro. and President Washington imposed a tax on whiskey, frontier communities – like the county seat, Washington – saw it as a direct insult to their way of life, resulting in the Whiskey Rebellion from 1791 to 1794. Eventually, Bro. Washington sent 13,000 troops to halt the rebellion. David Bradford, a leader in the rebellion whose house is now a tourist attraction in Washington, fled the town to avoid arrest.

Washington Lodge No. 164, constituted January 21, 1820, co-sponsors an annual summer ride for charity with the Blue Knights motorcycle group. More than 500 riders participated this year’s ride, which earned money for Masonic and public charities. The lodge’s membership currently totals 346, up from 327 at the end of 2009. “I believe that Pennsylvania is providing leadership and innovative approaches to a modern world in respect to our most ancient and honorable fraternity,” Bro. John M. Knisely, Secretary, said.

Also in Washington, Sunset Lodge No. 623 was constituted on Oct. 1, 1901, after the oil boom of the 1880s and 1890s more than doubled the population of Washington, contributing to the healthy growth of Freemasonry in the area.

Beallsville, located 15 miles southeast of Washington, is a borough of fewer than 500 people located on the old National Road. Originally constituted as Chandler Lodge No. 237 in Washington on April 17, 1849, the lodge moved to Beallsville on May 10, 1854, and its name changed the next year to Beallsville Lodge No. 237.

North of Washington, Chartiers Lodge No. 297 was constituted May 15, 1856, in Canonsburg.

The lodge shares its name with the valley where it is located. Chartered in 1802, Canonsburg is the oldest incorporated municipality in the county. Standard Chemical Company, established in Canonsburg in 1911, was the pioneer plant in the United States for manufacturing radium. When Madame Curie visited the United States, Bro. and President Warren G. Harding presented her with a gram of radium valued at $120,000 which was manufactured at the Standard Chemical Company.

The National Road allowed for the incorporation of Claysville in 1832, which was named for Senator Henry Clay, who was a driving force in creating the road. For many years, Claysville Lodge No. 447 and Curtis Pharmacy shared a stone building on Main Street. “The members have always felt a keen sense of obligation to maintain this relationship with the pharmacy,” Bro. Jim Flanigan, District Deputy Grand Master for the 29th Masonic District, said.

In February 1977, the building suffered from a fire, and when the members had it rebuilt, they made sure its design could house the lodge and local drug store together.

Other lodges in this region: Tri-County Lodge No. 252, Donora Loyalhanna Lodge No. 275, Latrobe Henry M. Phillips Lodge No. 337, Monongahela Richard Vaux Lodge No. 454, Burgettstown Valley Lodge No. 459, Masontown Monongahela Valley Lodge No. 461, California La Monte Lodge No. 568, Derry Charleroi Lodge No. 615, Charleroi Kiskiminetas Lodge No. 617, Vandergrift Jeannette Lodge No. 750, Jeannette Forbes Trail Lodge No. 783, Export

Brownsville Lodge No. 60, Brownsville

Pleasant Valley Masonic Center, Connellsville

Greensburg Masonic Center, Greensburg

Claysville Lodge No. 447, Claysville

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Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

Contributions from Lodges

Lobster Fest a First-time Fund Raising Success!

In compliance with R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon’s requirement to hold a onetime fund raiser, members of Eulalia Lodge No. 342, Coudersport, voted to pre-sell tickets for a Lobster Fest. Hoping to sell at least 100 tickets at $25 per person, they pre-sold an astonishing 250+ tickets in a town with less than 1,400 adults. Not bad for the lodge’s first-ever fund raising event!

The feast was held on Sept. 11, 2010, at the Coudersport Consistory where the lodge meets.

On the day of the event, while Lodge Secretary Bart Ianson was driving back from Maine with a truck full of live lobsters, other members were getting the donated sweet corn and Potter County’s famous potatoes ready for cooking.

Others were prepping the shrimp cocktail, presetting the tables, preparing salads and beverages and posting Masonic signage. Fully one-sixth

of the community was already in the doors and waiting before the appointed hour, and the lines formed outside the kitchen as the plated steaming lobsters were served. A local musician provided entertainment, licensed raffle tickets were sold, and the room was filled with the roar of a community in celebration of charitable deeds and good works.

Bros. Terry L. Goodenough, Worshipful Master, and Jim Gustafson, District Deputy Grand Master for District 22, were proud to see the lodge and the community joined in fellowship and celebration. The lodge raised approximately $3,000 to benefit the Masonic Villages and the lodge’s operations.

As Eulalia Lodge prepares to celebrate its Sesquicentennial on Oct. 11, 2011, hopes are high to make this Lobster Fest an annual tradition.

100 Mason Night Raises Big $ for Charity Silent Auction Benefits Masonic Village

On Oct. 13, 2010, Infinity Lodge No. 546, Verona, held its third 100 Mason Night. This year, they upped the ante by offering to donate $5,000 to Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh, a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting low-income elderly and disabled homeowners through home repair and rehabilitation. Infinity Lodge donated the money in the name of any lodge in the 54th District which had at least 10 Masons in attendance.

Infinity Lodge also committed to donating at least $1,000 to the Masonic Villages for each Right Worshipful in attendance, with additional money offered for each District Deputy Grand Master (D.D.G.M.), Past D.D.G.M. or Appointed Grand Lodge Officer.

R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon, in recognition of this generosity, paid the lodge a personal visit accompanied by all of the current Grand Lodge Officers, R.W. Past Grand Masters Samuel C. Williamson and Ronald A. Aungst, Sr., and a number of other past Grand Lodge Officers.

More than 130 Masons enjoyed an excellent night of fellowship.

All in all, Infinity Lodge donated $17,500 to the Masonic Charities and $20,000 to Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh.

Right-left: Bro. Richard Heath, P.M., and his wife, Ellen; Bros. Leonard Kornit, Mike Feldsher, P.M., and Bart Davis, P.M. On May 20, 2010, the members of Hackenburg-Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 19, Philadelphia, held their annual Ladies and Award Night. Charles Holloway, District Deputy Grand Master for Masonic District C, presented 50- and 60-year service award pins. The lodge gave its meritorious service award, the Meyer J. Freiberg award, to Bro. Michael S. Feldsher, P.M., who served as the Worshipful Master in 2008 and 2009. During the evening, the lodge held a silent auction to benefit the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill. Bro. Feldsher obtained donations from lodge members and golf courses, autographed memorabilia from the Philadelphia Flyers and 76ers, baseball tickets from the Philadelphia Phillies, a gold watch, books and bottles of wine. The silent auction raised $782.50.

These are just a few of the lodges who helped to raise $723,323.86 for the Masonic Villages!

LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

Congratulations Bro. Frank J. Kautz, II, West Shore Lodge No. 681, Camp Hill, received the Distinguished Service Medal, also known as the Joseph Warren Medal, from the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts for his service to Freemasonry in that state on June 7, 2010. He received the honor from R.W. Bro. Richard Maggio, District Deputy Grand Master of the 13th Masonic District, with the assistance of R.W. Bro. Ernest A. Pearstein, past Junior Grand Warden of Massachusetts and the current Director of the Grand Lodge Service Committee, on behalf of M.W. Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts, William Pageau. Family members surprised him by attending the open ceremony, along with many of his brethren and their wives. He is pictured with his proud father, Bro. and Dr. William D. Kautz, P.M., West Shore Lodge No. 681.

Bro. Pierre Hans Rausch, P.M., W.M., with Bro. Paul W. Hadermann, P.M.

On June 29, 2010, Paul W. Hadermann, P.M., celebrated his 100th birthday with friends, family and brethren, highlighted by the presentation of his 60-Year Service Award. He received the honor from Bros. Pierre Hans Rausch, P.M., W.M., and Erwin Stielow, P.M., Secretary of Hermann-Humboldt Lodge No. 125, Warminster. The “oldest German-speaking lodge” in the United States, it celebrates its 200th Anniversary in 2011.

At his centennial celebration, Bro. Hadermann sang along to German songs accompanied by accordion music, enjoyed a celebratory toast and received personal greetings and cards.

Bro. Hadermann was initiated in 1949 and served as Master of the lodge in 1953. Rumor has it he still bowls a mean game!

On Sept. 2, 2010, Bro. David Williams, thenW.M., Pollock Lodge No. 502, Tarentum, planned the presentation of the Lewis Jewel to honor the fathers and sons of the lodge. Bro. Paul J. Roup, District Deputy Grand Master for the 54th Masonic District, Bro. Williams and the fathers presented the Lewis Jewels to the sons. After the presentations, the brethren reminisced about their fathers and their experiences and fond memories in Freemasonry.

Front row, left-right: Bros. Charles F. Korman, Jr., P.M.; Charles F. Korman, Sr., P.M.; Glenn L. McGinn; S. Hartley Johnston, Jr.; Timothy K. McCutcheon, Sr.; Timothy K. McCutcheon, Jr.; Kenneth M. Gulick; and Kenneth T. Gulick. Back row, left-right: Bros. Paul J. Roup, D.D.G.M.; Kenneth V. Shoop, Sr.; John H. Williams, Jr.; David H. Williams, W.M.; John C. Williams; David S. Williams; Robert B. Ruff, of Valley Lodge No. 613; and William T. Salsbury. Not Pictured: Bros. James W. Anderson II, P.M., and Kenneth V. Shoop, Jr. Posthumously Presented: Bro. James R. Thompson Bro. Norman P. Rowe, 33°, received the Century Award for conferring 100 Master Mason Degrees on July 26, 2010, at Tennis Lodge

No. 371, Thompsontown.

Left-right: Bros. Orvis E. Rowles, Jr., W.M., Rick L. Ward, S.W., Norman P. Rowe, Robert G. Shipp III, J.W., all of Tennis Lodge No. 371; and Gregory L. Latchford, District Deputy Grand Master for the 19th Masonic District

Bro. Paul M. Dreibelbis received the Grand Lodge Certificate for attaining 100 years of age from Bro. Sean S. Schibik, W.M., Lodge No. 45, Pittsburgh, after the lodge’s stated meeting on Sept. 29, 2010, exactly two weeks after his actual birthday. A retired City of Pittsburgh school teacher, Bro. Dreibelbis was initiated on Oct. 20, 1954.

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Community Service Toys for Tots & Food Drive

Left-right: Then-Worshipful Master Robert D. Brink, P.M.; Bro. (SSGT) Gavin J. Whitehead; and Bro. Raymond S. Lapp, P.M., “Santa Claus” welcome visitors to the lodge event.

On Dec. 4, 2010, Saucon Lodge No. 469, Coopersburg, held its first Toys for Tots campaign and food drive for Betty Lou’s Pantry.

Everyone who brought an unwrapped toy and/or some canned food received free pictures with Santa. Decorated inside and out for Christmas, the lodge exuded a festive atmosphere with music, refreshments and reindeer (well, not really reindeer, but alpacas with fake reindeer antlers)!

Many of the lodge brothers and their families contributed their time, decorations and cookies. Special thanks to the Southern Lehigh Key Club for their generous donations of food and toys and the Cub Scouts for their help and for adding life to the party.

It was a fun way to make a difference in the lives of some less fortunate people.

“This is such a great lodge,” said Donald Masters, District Deputy Grand Master for District 9. “Every member pitches in and the Worshipful Master bubbles with enthusiasm and ideas as to how to spread our ‘word.’ How lucky I am to have them in my district, along with several others lodges who are doing marvelous things – having fun and enjoying every moment!”

Celebrating Community Cooperation

Left-right: Bro. Andrew J. Dobson, J.W.; Senator Andrew Dinniman; Bro. Douglas Pomietlarz, W.M.; Mayor Carolyn Committa; and Bro. Daniel T. Yarnall, S.W. West Chester Lodge No. 322 recently sponsored a breakfast and ribbon cutting ceremony for the new homes constructed on East Barnard Street by Habitat for Humanity. Members and officers of Lodge No. 322; Carolyn Committa, Mayor of West Chester; and Pennsylvania Senator Andy Dinniman, along with all the construction companies, attended the breakfast held at Milestone Events in West Chester. The ceremony was well attended by the Masonic lodge and the Home Builders Association.

Honoring Veterans One Brick at a Time

A Patriotic Processional

Left-right: Bro. Paul Lauffenberger, P.M., Joseph Warren Lodge No. 726, and the Masonic Chairman of the event (in green jacket), presents a plaque to Bro. Richard N. Fitzsimmons, District Deputy Grand Master of the 24th Masonic District, in recognition of the district’s contributions to the construction of the Veterans Memorial. Also participating are Bros. Michael R. Jordan, W.M., Joseph Warren Lodge No. 726; William D. Jenkins, W.M., Stillwater Lodge No. 547, Youngsville; Paul O. Walker, P.D.D.G.M.-56; and Robert J. Gafner, W.M., North Star Lodge No. 241, Warren.

On Aug 4, 2010, 13 members of the Masonic Motorcycle Club (Chapters 19 and 38) joined the Vietnam Veterans, Patriot Guard, Combat Vets, Road Knights, Legion Riders and Susquehanna Motorcycle Club to escort the body of Lance Cpl. Abram Howard, USMC, to his hometown of Williamsport. The patriotic processional paid tribute to Lance Cpl. Howard’s sacrifice for our country’s freedom.

The 11 lodges comprising the 24th Masonic District purchased a brick to support the fund raising efforts of the Warren County Veterans Council and provided many volunteer hours in the construction of the Warren County Veterans Memorial at Oakland Cemetery. The lodge received a plaque for their efforts at the dedication of the memorial on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2010.

Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

LODGE AND DISTRICT

Preserving Their County with a Labor of Love Traveling to Raise a Brother

Charity Lodge No. 190, Jeffersonville, received a letter from the Historical Society of Montgomery County recognizing and thanking its members for their efforts in assisting with the restoration of its headquarters. The society was unable to fund the expensive project, so the lodge’s efforts in volunteering to paint the exterior of the building and even contacting Sherwin-Williams, who then donated the paint, was greatly appreciated. Members also helped with the clean-up of the Historic Montgomery Cemetery, the resting place of more than 400 veterans including five Civil War generals. The lodge’s support has helped to preserve the history of the county for future generations.

On May 25, 2010, Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, Harrisburg, received a dispensation from R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon to hold an extra meeting at Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, to raise a new Master Mason, Jamie Serr.

Members traveled to the lodge room at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, enabling Robert Burns Lodge members who reside at the Masonic Village to attend without having to travel to Harrisburg.

Lodge CHIPs Children at Community Event

Feeding Efforts to Help Injured Veterans

On Aug. 7, 2010, Lake Erie Lodge No. 347, Girard, held its 5th annual CHIP Day at the lodge in conjunction with a local community event, “Dan Rice Days.” The lodge CHIP’d 61 children that day, and over the course of the five years have CHIP’d more than 300 children in the surrounding community.

Bro. Dan Rice was a member of the lodge and a famous clown in the 1800s who wintered his circus in Girard. For the past 30 years or more, the community comes together to honor him with a parade, vendors and re-enactors.

Fun with Fitness & Fund Raising Chapter 38 members, left-right: Bros. Shane T. Fausey, Gene E. Kline, Guy A. Yocum and Kevin L. Donowsky, all of Watsontown Lodge No. 401 On Sept. 11, 2010, members of Masonic Motorcycle Club Chapter 38 assisted at the Patriot Trap Shoot, held at the TRI County Sportsmen Club in Silvara, Pa., to give back to soldiers injured in the War on Terror. Sportsmen, women and youth of all ages participated in the fund raising event, from which all proceeds benefitted the Hunts for Healing Organization.

Based in Laceyville, Pa., Hunts for Healing provides hunting and fishing trips for wounded veterans as well as hunter safety classes, hunting lectures and other outdoor programs. Its goal is to provide a safe, family atmosphere in which to show soldiers that there is nothing they can’t do if they set their mind to it, no matter what their injuries or condition may be.

Members of the Masonic Motorcycle Club Chapter 38 donated and cooked hot dogs and hamburgers and prepared the sides for everyone who attended the event. The chapter made a donation of $1,500 in memory of Bro. and MSG Sean Thomas and Spc. Zack Long, son of Chapter 38 member Bro. Rick Long.

On July 7, 2010, several members of King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346, Connellsville, participated in the 28th annual John Woodruff 5K Run & Walk. Led by Worshipful Master John C. Fox II, the team wore distinctive t-shirts celebrating the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance. This event benefits the John Woodruff College Scholarship Fund for young men and women who attend the Connellsville Area Senior High School. After the race, the team enjoyed refreshments and fellowship at a local eatery with other participants and family members.

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Newly Raised Members of Lodge No. 19 Tour the Grand Lodge On May 8, 2010, the newly initiated members of Hackenburg-Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 19, Philadelphia, their first line signers and the lodge officers met to tour the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia and to enjoy a festive lunch at a member’s restaurant.

Bro. Bart Davis, P.M., planned the event to help new brethren, who are currently getting their degrees, as well as newly raised Master Masons, to meet men who were not their recommenders, feel more comfortable with the process of becoming a Mason and learn about our magnificent

Fun at the Range

Bro. Jeffery S. Greene, Past District Deputy Grand Master for District C and president of the PA Shield and Square Club, consisting of Masons who are active or retired Law Enforcement Officers, resurrected the club’s Annual Pistol Competition.

On May 15, 2010, 20 members of the club met at the Pistol People Indoor Range in Bensalem.

The owner/operator, Bro. Steve Rementer, Jerusalem Lodge No. 506, Philadelphia, a retired Philadelphia Police Stakeout Officer, donated the use of the facility for a competition shoot.

The guest of honor was R.W. Grand Secretary Mark A. Haines, who was shooting for the first time. Bro. Rementer, a qualified firearms instructor, gave Bro. Haines a 30-minute safety course in pistol shooting after which Bro. Mike Pale, Williamson-Corinthian Lodge No. 368, Philadelphia, range instructor, escorted Bro. Haines to the firing line. With Bro. Pale’s assistance, Bro. Haines successfully competed in the competition. We can report Bro. Haines (a.k.a. Dead Eye) did not finish in first place, nor did he finish last.

After the competition, everyone gathered for lunch and the announcement of the winners.

First Place: Bro. Bruce Mouat, W.K. Bray Lodge No. 410, Hatboro Second Place: Bro. Anthony (Bud) Garvey, P.M., Richard Vaux-Ivanhoe Lodge No. 384, Philadelphia Third Place: Bro. Thomas A. Spoltore, P.M., Joseph H. Brown Lodge No. 751, Philadelphia The awards were given at the club’s June meeting. Everyone had a good time and plans were being made for next year’s event going state-wide.

Masonic Temple. His hope is that these men will feel more comfortable coming to lodge meetings and will become active in the lodge.

The event was attended by 31 men and was a resounding success.

Left side, back-front: Bros. Michael W. Rabinowitch, J.W.; Josh D. Vasquez; Richard G. Jones, P.M., W.M.; Bart Davis, P.M.; and Hal Doner Right side, back-front: Bros. Dennis J. Beerley; David Parker, P.M.; Chris W. Depalma; and Kevin M. Hill

First row, left-right: Bros. Peter Perry Sr., Joseph H. Brown Lodge No. 751; Edward H. Cervonka, P.M., Hackenburg-Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 19 and Joseph H. Brown Lodge; Mark A. Haines, P.M., R.W. Grand Secretary; and Danny Hinds, P.M., Aide to Grand Master, William L. Elkins No. 271; all of Philadelphia Second row, left-right: Bros. Peter Perry, Jr., Joseph H. Brown Lodge; Philip Formicola, Joseph H. Brown Lodge and Richard Vaux-Ivanhoe Lodge No. 384; Thomas A. Spoltore, Joseph H. Brown Lodge; Santo Bocchinfuso, Washington Lodge No. 59 and Joseph H. Brown Lodge; Jeffery S. Greene, P.M., P.D.D.G.M., Joseph H. Brown Lodge and, Hackenburg-Mt. Moriah Lodge; all of Philadelphia Third row, left-right: Bros. Anthony J. Garvey, P.M., Richard Vaux-Ivanhoe Lodge; Bruce Mouat, W.K. Bray Lodge; William A. Klosz, P.M., Joseph H. Brown Lodge and Widener-Apollo Kensington Lodge No. 211, Philadephia; Bro. William C. Brown, P.M., Richard Vaux-Ivanhoe Lodge; and Bro. Charles E. Quaste, Widener-Apollo Kensington Lodge Back row: Bro. Stephen R. Rementer, range owner/ operator, Jerusalem Lodge No. 506, Philadelphia

A “New Option” for Today’s Donor The Masonic Charities of the R.W. Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania has embarked on a “new” donation option that offers donors more convenient ways to give. Donors now have the option to have their charitable gifts automatically withdrawn from their bank account or charged to their credit card monthly.

Automatic withdrawal works the same way as paying your mortgage, loan payments, utilities or insurance premiums.

Important Benefits for You, the Donor: • Easier to fulfill charitable commitments • Allows you to contribute even when you’re away • Easier personal budgeting • You don’t have to worry about your checks being lost or stolen.

The monthly electronic transfer or credit card charge will cost you nothing. We will give you proof of your donations at the end of the year for tax purposes. Your monthly bank statement or credit card statement will provide you with a record of transfer as additional proof of your donations.

To join the Masonic Charities Loyalty Club, please call the Office of Gift Planning at (800) 599-6454 or go to our Web site, www.pagrandlodge.org. On the left panel, click on “Gift Planning” and then on “Online Gifts.” Scroll 2/3 of the way down the page and click to download the “Masonic Charities Loyalty Club” form. Please mail it to: Masonic Charities, Office of Gift Planning, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022.

Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

LODGE AND DISTRICT

A Grand Appearance in the Grand Slam Parade On Aug. 19, 2010, the 6th Annual Grand Slam Parade was held to welcome the world to Williamsport, host of the 2010 Little League World Series. Its “Americana,” family-friendly setting draws more than 40,000 people along the parade route, and thousands more view the event live on WVIA TV and on national news.

Almost 400 Masons participated in the parade, including officers and members of the following Masonic groups: R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon and Grand Lodge Officers; Grand Chapter; Grand Council; Grand Commandery; Masonic District 18; nine lodges; A.A.S.R.; Masonic CHIP float, Tall Cedars float and mini-cars; Zembo Shrine; Irem Shrine, including the string band, motorcycles, mini-cars and transport unit; Jaffa Shrine; and Grotto String Band.

Bro. Kenneth W. McClintock, District Deputy Grand Master for District 18, received several calls from brethren who were along the parade route and expressed their pride in our fraternity and the way it paid respect to the late Bro. Carl E. Stotz, founder of Little League baseball.

“We definitely made a tremendous favorable impression of our great fraternity,” Bro. McClintock said.

Right: Grand Lodge Officers and representatives wave from aboard the Grand Lodge float.

Brethren Help Restore Tradition to Bethlehem on Horseback The city of Bethlehem recently restored its Bethlehem Police Mounted Unit after a 63-year hiatus with the addition of three beautiful horses. Officers interested in volunteering for the unit had to write a paper as to why they wanted to do the job. They are responsible for the care, feeding and grooming of the animals. Two of the three officers selected to ride the horses on patrol are members of H. Stanley Goodwin Lodge No. 648, Bethlehem. The unit will provide more visibility for the officers, assist with mobility and navigation in certain terrains, help with crowd control and promote community relations … plus, the horses are the “ultimate green vehicles!”

Left-right: Officer Michael Leaser and George, Officer and Bro. Jon Buskirk and Pharaoh, and Officer and Bro. Timothy Brooks and Raven.

St. John’s Lodge No. 115 F. & A.M. Celebrates Its 200th Anniversary Constituted Feb. 3, 1810, St. John’s Lodge No. 115, Philadelphia, recently completed its year-long celebration of its 200th anniversary.

Then-Worshipful Master Mitchel H. Sheinoff invited several brothers of the lodge to present at every stated meeting a program covering significant historic and Masonic events of the bicentennial in 25year segments. Members of St. John’s Lodge enjoyed the opportunity to learn about the history and interactions of St. John’s Lodge, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and the world.

The highlight of the year occurred on May 8, 2010, at a gala black tie banquet held at the Constitution Center. In attendance were 150 members, friends and guests of St. John’s Lodge No. 115, along with R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon and District Deputy Grand Master for District A, Robert J. Burns.

Front row, left-right: Bros. Jack Robinson; Robert Burns, D.D.G.M.; Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W.G.M.; Mitchel H. Sheinoff, W.M.; Patrick F. Gresley, S.W.; Daniel Hinds, Aide to the Grand Master; and John O’Neil. Seated: Bros.

Harry Carter III, P.M., and Mark Sigismund, P.M.

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Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

Breaking Ground on a New Lodge!

Members of various Masonic bodies gathered on Dec. 11, 2010, for the ground breaking of a new Masonic Temple in Lebanon.

Left-right: Bros. David Gontz, Eminent Commander, Hermit Commandery No. 24; Walt Foltz, Most Excellent High Priest, Chapter No. 197; William Smeltzer, General Contractor; Frank August, W.M., Mt. Olivet Lodge No. 704; Robert P. Hoffman, Architect; Noble Johnson, District Deputy Grand Master for District 60; Ned Bomgardner, Treasurer, Masonic Temple Association of Lebanon; Les Keller, President, Masonic Temple Assoc.; Scott Koons, Vice President, Masonic Temple Assoc.; Paul Weiksner, W.M., Mt. Lebanon Lodge No. 226; William Arnold, Past District Deputy Grand Master and Secretary, Masonic Temple Assoc.; Kevin Organtini, Thrice Ill. Master, Lebanon Council No. 27; and Betty Arnold, W.M., O.E.S. Chapter No. 115.

Contributing to Spiritual Wellness at Masonic Village Members of Victory Lodge No. 694, Butler, contributed $2,000 toward the Masonic Village at Sewickley’s Meditation Room project. The lodge raised the funds through a raffle, and presented the check to Jane W. Binley, Director of Gift Planning-West Region, and Bro. Pete J. Jubic, Doric Lodge No. 630, Sewickley, Director of Maintenance for the Village.

PA-Ohio Unity Night

Welcoming a Traveling Brother Bro. Richard N. Fitzsimmons, District Deputy Grand Master for the 24th Masonic District, presented Wor. Bro. Douglas Squires, Guy’s Cliffe Lodge No. 8874, Province of Warwickshire, United Kingdom, with one of R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon’s ties and a lapel pin.

Wor. Brother Squires stopped in Erie on June 17, 2010, while cycling across the United States on a journey which started in Los Angeles on May 9 and finished in Boston on June 26, 2010.

On Sept. 14, 2010, R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon hosted the Pennsylvania/Ohio Masonic Unity Night at the Stated Meeting of Mahoning New Castle Lodge No. 243. More than 300 members from both Jurisdictions, including the Grand Lodge Officers from Pennsylvania and Ohio, attended the meeting. Gifts and speeches were exchanged by both Grand Master Sturgeon and M.W. Grand Master of Ohio, Bro. Terry Posey.

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Photo by Tito-Perez.com

Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

DeMolay Class Named in Honor of Grand Master Sturgeon On Dec. 4, 2010, Pennsylvania DeMolay honored R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon with an Induction of 12 new members at the Masonic Conference Center-Patton Campus in Elizabethtown. The class also had 11 previously reported new members who were a part of the class experiencing the full degrees for the first time.

Pennsylvania DeMolay mirrored the successes of Grand Lodge this year by initiating more members than the organization lost to majorities.

The class and weekend program, planned by State Senior Councilor Alexander Rauschenberger, a Past Master Councilor of Lorraine Chapter, Butler, included participants from 17 different DeMolay Chapters meeting in Pennsylvania. The weekend also included training for new DeMolay Advisors, movies and athletic activities, a dance with Job’s Daughters and Rainbow Girls and a worship service planned by the state officers.

Following the presentation of patents to the

new members, State Master Councilor Thomas Moyer, a Past Master Councilor of Pilgrim Chapter, Harrisburg, presented Grand Master Sturgeon with a $500 check for the Masonic Villages from Pennsylvania DeMolay.

“No Grand Master can receive a greater compliment than to have a State DeMolay Class named in his honor,” Grand Master Sturgeon said.

Bethel #19 Welcomes Special Visitors to Officer Installations

At its recent officer installation, Bethel #19, Mechanicsburg, was honored to have in attendance 14 Prince Hall Masons, including Worshipful District Deputy Grand Master of the Fifth District of the M.W. Prince Hall F. & A.M. of Pennsylvania, Paul A. Hibner, P.M., Letort Star Lodge No. 18, and three Worshipful Masters. The bethel was also honored by the presence of District Deputy Grand Matron from District 5, Deborah Grand Chapter, O.E.S., P.H.A., Mrs. Lyndell Butler, member of the Silvery Moon Chapter No. 56, and several O.E.S. officers.

Bethel #19 officers with, left-Bro. Paul A. Hibner, W.D.D.G.M.; back-Bro. Doug Harms, P.M., Perseverance Lodge No. 21, Harrisburg, Associate Bethel Guardian, and Tiffany Bates, Bethel Guardian; and right-Mrs. Lyndell Butler, D.D.G.M.

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PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

What a Wonderful Way to Spend Time with Your Granddaughter

by Ashley Kissinger, PHQ Bethel No. 7

Bro. Glen Runk, Lamberton Lodge No. 476, Lancaster; Phyllis Runk, Buchanan Chapter No. 315; and Lindsey, Ashley and Clara Kissinger.

Grandparents, can you honestly say that you have been able to watch your granddaughter mature from a girl into a young woman? Sure, you’ve seen the report cards and the soccer games, but have you had the chance to walk beside them on this journey?

Job’s Daughters provides an environment in which young women can grow and develop within the Masonic tradition, and it’s only appropriate that family embrace the opportunity to share this experience. Whether you decide to take the sidelines or the stage, there is a place for every grandparent within the Job’s Daughters’ family.

Not only do you have the perfect chance to share a memorable journey with your granddaughters,

chances are you might even feel a little younger!

Recently, girls from across the Commonwealth answered questions about their grandparents’ involvement in their lives as Job’s Daughters, such as how they became involved and what benefits they and their grandparents have derived through their participation.

Upon being asked what having her grandmother involved in her life as a Job’s Daughter meant to her, Zaira Thomas, Bethel 19, Mechanicsburg, said, “It has made me a better person, because I’m not just doing it for me, I’m also doing it for her.”

Brooke Spence, of Bethel 15, Elizabethtown, speaks of her favorite memory of having her grandparents, R.W. Deputy Grand Master Jay Smith and his wife, Nancy, with her in Job’s Daughters. This moment took place at the Installation when she was first installed into the line: “As my grandfather gave remarks as a representative of the Grand Master, he started talking about how our Bethel was growing and encouraged us to continue what we were doing. As he started talking about how he had two granddaughters in the Bethel and one that would be able to join in a few years, and that he had daughters go through the same Bethel, he started to tear up. He is so proud of me and what I am doing.”

Cecile Madonna, Miss Job’s Daughter of PA, of Bethel 7, Manheim, told of the benefits both she and her grandparents have received from their participation in Job’s Daughters. “I think both sides benefit from their participation.

I have benefited from them always being on the sidelines, supporting me in every decision. They always are there for a morale boost, just when I need it. I also think I use them as a way of pushing

myself to do better. It is one thing to have your friends be disappointed in you, but your family is another thing. So, doing a good job, having them see everything that I have accomplished, and making them proud means a lot to me. I also think that they benefit from having three granddaughters in Job’s Daughters. They have an opportunity to see their granddaughters develop into tomorrow’s leaders, from an organization unlike any other in the world. The things they see us doing inspire them to make changes in their lives.”

While Job’s Daughters really does benefit from having grandparents involved, the individual members grow closer to their grandparents and share the people they have become. It’s a meaningful way to spend quality time together.

A set of grandparents, the Runks, also showed how their participation in Job’s Daughters has affected them. Phyllis, James Buchanan Chapter No. 315, O.E.S., and Glen, Lamberton Lodge No. 476, Lancaster, have been involved with Job’s Daughters for many years. When asked why they enjoy being involved in Job’s Daughters, together they answered: “You get to see your granddaughters grow and advance in their speaking and leadership abilities, and watch how it enhances their lives. It is a wonderful organization, and we love to do whatever we can to support them.”

It is very easy and fun to get involved in Job’s Daughters. Just ask your granddaughter how! Grandparents are encouraged to attend events such as Bethel Meetings, Installations and others. It allows the members to share something they love with their grandparents, and it also lets grandparents become a part of something important in their granddaughter’s life.

Rainbow: Welcome Back, Altoona!

On May 1, 2010, Altoona welcomed back to life a long-standing organization for girls: the Altoona Assembly #188 of The International Order of Rainbow for Girls was pleased to receive their charter and return to active life!

In 1922, Rainbow was created for young Christian women. Today, the leaders of Rainbow Girls respect and welcome all girls from every religion, providing a place where young women can receive the basic teachings of faith, hope and charity – the cornerstone of this dynamic girl’s youth group.

Anyone interested in more information on how to join may call Kelly Hoover, Mother Advisor, at (814) 381-4978.

Front row, left-right: Nikki Roland, Amanda Wertz, Shaniah Miller, Paige Padula, Emily Miller and Saige McElwain. Center row, left-right: Megan Martin, Katie Campbell, Kate Wilkins, Emily Hoover and Paige Dinges. Back Row: Cassie Kasic

Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Some Things Old, Some Things New

by Mrs. Helen Snedden, Supreme Deputy for PA PA Rainbow is starting to grow again!

As Majority members and former adult workers have returned to PA Rainbow, they are seeing some improvements and differences in the current Rainbow Assemblies.

Sponsors of Rainbow Assemblies can now be Masonic Lodges, Eastern Star Chapters, Amaranth Courts or White Shrines of Jerusalem. Assemblies must have at least one sponsor, but can have more. The purpose of the sponsors is to show support to the girls and to attend meetings and events when possible. All advisory board members must now complete an Adult Worker Profile, which checks driving records and criminal background.

The term of office for all Worthy Advisors is now six months. Installations are in March and September and still open for family and friends. Parents, grandparents and legal guardians are now able to receive a “parentcard” and are encouraged to attend ALL Rainbow meetings.

The Grand Worthy Advisor still selects a charity she wants to support through the sale of state pins and special projects. In addition, at Grand Assembly 2010, the girls selected a charity that will be an ongoing state project, year after year. PA Rainbow will be providing money and items to the My Stuff Bags Foundation (www.mystuffbag.com). Its

Left to right: Job’s Daughters Miss Congeniality Leah Riedel; DeMolay State Master Councilor W. Thomas Moyer; and Rainbow Grand Hope Angela Lennox, after they gave blood at Autumn Day 2010. mission is to provide powerful advocacy on behalf of abused, abandoned and neglected children. Bags are filled with things they need, things to cuddle, things to hold on to and things to call their own as they get settled in new surroundings. One of the ways we are getting funds is by collecting pull-tabs (soda/pop cans, soup cans, pet food cans, etc). The officer known as Grand Charity leads this charitable outreach, and she has creative ideas to add money and items to this worthy cause.

In a relaxation of a formerly very strict dress code, Rainbow Girls can now travel,

arrive and leave from meetings in khakis or slacks. The girls can change into their white gowns for formal meetings or remain in their Rainbow casual clothes for their non-formal activities and events.

The new state dress code is khakis with a blue polo shirt. It has the Rainbow logo embroidered on it with “Pennsylvania Rainbow” embroidered in white. Look for them around the state!

Supreme Assembly has changed parts of our ritual. Some of the words have changed and the word “secret” has been removed.

We now have new rituals with blue covers.

If you have a green or white ritual book, it is outdated and not being used.

PA Rainbow has increased the number of Assemblies with a Pledge Group. There are 16 groups of girls, ages 6 to 10. The pledges meet once a month for about an hour. They perform a short ritual, do a craft project and have a snack before heading home. There is a pledge sister who presides, much like a worthy advisor, for a six-month term.

PA Rainbow is happy that we have events where we work with Job’s Daughters and DeMolay. We love being part of a Masonic family!

To find an Assembly near you and for the latest and greatest information, please check out www.PArainbowgirls.org

The Lasting Impact of LifeSkills

LifeSkills Conference graduates are sometimes available to share their experiences with lodge members, as this group recently did with Lodge No. 135, Roxborough.

Contact PMYF Executive Director Bro. Tom Labagh to make arrangements for a program, at trlabagh@ pagrandlodge.org or (717) 367-1536.

LifeSkills is an active, creative, experientiallybased week of learning and relationship building with other young people and a talented staff of professionals and volunteers. Through a variety of hands-on sessions and tasks, participants

reinforce the foundational principles of LifeSkills.

This active and exciting conference challenges attendees to develop leadership, respect, relational skills and personal responsibility through a variety of creative approaches and various media.

In the summer of 2008, Strayer Middle School of Quakertown began sending students to the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation’s LifeSkills Conference after its staff went through a series of staff development trainings on social and emotional learning and recognized the need to build authentic leadership opportunities for the students.

Bro. Thom Stecher, Director of the LifeSkills Conference, explained to Mrs. Lapinski, the middle school principal, how it would be a perfect fit into her plans to develop student leadership from within. LifeSkills became an excellent training model for the Strayer Strong program and it has truly made a difference.

The students who attend LifeSkills each summer have worked really hard in the following

school year to spread the message of respect, responsibility and healthy relationships to their peers. First, they gained confidence in their own lives to live out the Full Value Contract, which means being safe physically and emotionally, agreeing to value behaviors which support the group, giving and receiving honest feedback, letting go of negative feelings and stale issues and always moving forward. Then, they began to understand what healthy relationships look like and feel like.

The LifeSkills Conference has been an incredibly powerful educational leadership program for the young people at Strayer Middle School. The conference fulfills its promises—it transforms lives, one child at a time.

Now is the time for your lodge to reach out and find a young person in your community to sponsor for the LifeSkills Conference. See details at www.pmyf.org or ask your Lodge Secretary for a LifeSkills Conference flyer.

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MASONIC VILL AGES

MASONIC VILLAGES’

2011

WISH LIST ITEMS OFFICE OF GIFT PLANNING

(800) 599-6454

Thank you to those who have provided for the following items from last issue’s Wish List: Bro. L. F. McArthur, Honesdale Lodge No. 218, purchased a Broda chair for the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown in memory of his wife, Lu. Mitchell Lodge No. 296, Jenkintown, provided for over-bed tables for the Masonic Village at Warminster. An anonymous donor purchased a Bose stereo system for residents.

Lodge No. 2, Philadelphia, contributed funds for five new patio doors for the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill.

Bro. Donald Wood, Youghiogheny Lodge No. 583, McKeesport, provided funds for five filing cabinets for the Masonic Children’s Home.

Many other items from the Wish List such as picnic tables, TVs and mattresses for the Masonic Children’s Home have been provided for through anonymous donors.

Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

Qty. Capital Need Masonic Children’s Home 11 Counter Stools 5 Porch Gliders 5 Bathroom Vanity and Counters 4 Vinyl Flooring for Bathroom 5 Medicine Cabinets 2 Carpet for Enclosed Porch Carpet for Offices Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill 6 Recliners Lobby Facelift (furniture, lamps, drapery, etc.)

Theatrical Therapy for Residents (12-week class) Plants/Planters 1 It’s Never Too Late - computer systems that empower individuals to connect, engage & enjoy life 1 Portable Digital Wheelchair Scale 1 Van with Lift Masonic Village at Warminster 20 Lounge Chairs 12 Over Bed Tables Masonic Village at Sewickley 1 Photosmart Compact Printer w/Extra Cartridges 1 Vehicle (on campus use) 1 Shuttle Bus for Residents Window Tinting for Main Dining Room 1 Large Screen TV for Residents - Personal Care 2 Outdoor Tents (size 20 x 20) 1 All-in-one Music System Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Renovations to the Bleiler Caring Cottage 1 Nintendo Wii Clinical Needs 87 APM2 Mattresses 80 x 35 - Prevents skin breakdown 3 Bariatric Bed & Equipment - Used for larger residents 9 Lifts (full) - incl. est. shipping 9 Lifts (sit to stand) -incl. est. shipping 5 Low Electric Beds 1 Nurse Call Bell System - Wireless 1 Security System 5 Wheelchairs - Broda - Comfort seating at end of life 15 Wheelchairs - Specialty 10 Whirlpools (Tubs) 1 Wireless Internal Access Quality of Life Needs 3 Furniture for Resident Balconies 10 Horticulture Gardens Raised - Depending on the size and materials used 1 It’s Never Too Late - computer systems that empower individuals to connect, engage & enjoy life 2 Keyboards - Digital

Cost per Item Total Cost $100 $300 $950 $775 $500 $1,415

$1,100 $1,500 $4,750 $3,100 $2,500 $2,830 $6,412

$676 $28,000

$24,000

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

$2,000 $45,000

$2,000 $45,000

$150 $265

$3,000 $3,180

$250 $12,000 $125,000 $4,000 $3,000 $1,800 $500

$250 $12,000 $125,000 $4,000 $3,000 $3,600 $500

$5,100 $500

$5,100 $500

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

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

$1,000 $500-$1,000

$3,000 $500-$1,000

$24,000

$24,000

$2,500

$5,000

MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

Gillmore Leads Elizabethtown Village The Committee on Masonic Homes and Bro. Joseph E. Murphy, C.E.O., have announced the realignment of various leadership positions and responsibilities to better position the Masonic Villages for continued success in all service areas.

Vicki L. Gillmore, R.N., Ph.D., N.H.A., has been promoted to Executive Director for the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, effective Jan. 1, 2011. Vicki joined the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown as Administrator, Health Care Services, in 1997. In her new role, she will be responsible for the overall operations of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.

“I feel a deep sense of personal appreciation for the opportunity I am afforded to be part of such a special place,” Vicki said. “I am deeply honored and excited about my new role as Executive Director. Together, we can accomplish many wonderful service enhancements.”

This change provides each of the five Masonic Villages a leadership team to concentrate on its respective community’s needs. It also redefines the corporate leadership team, under the direction of Bro. Murphy, that is responsible for all Masonic Villages and for planning and implementing strategic initiatives across all campuses.

Retirement Living Options Expand

The Residential Living areas of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown transitioned to a Retirement Living rental fee plan, beginning Jan. 1, 2011. Both service areas have been combined and are now referred to collectively as Retirement Living. The Admissions and Marketing offices also have combined, making it easier for prospective residents and their families to obtain the information and assistance they need regardless of which service level they desire.

The fees in Residential Living previously had been set to cover costs; however, upon analyzing the market, it became evident that it was necessary to reposition these living areas by aligning the services, amenities and fee structure with what people can afford in today’s economy. Becoming more competitive in the marketplace will allow the Masonic Village to meet the needs of more people interested in its services and lifestyle.

The restructured payment plan provides more flexibility in service options, giving residents more control over their personal finances. It also has enabled some residents previously receiving fraternal assistance to move to a private pay status.

The Masonic Villages were able to make this change due to the size of the organization and the many initiatives it has taken over the years to become more efficient. As the Masonic Villages population has grown, so have its amenities, shared recreational programs and common areas. These fixed expenses, spread out over a larger population, makes it more convenient and affordable for all residents.

The Masonic Villages will continue to provide care and services regardless of an individual’s ability to pay, in accordance with its Mission of Love. Those with Masonic ties will still be given preference, including those who cannot afford to pay the entire fee. The fraternal care procedures remain unchanged.

For more information about Retirement Living at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, call (800) 676-6452. For Personal Care or Nursing Services, call (800) 422-1207.

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MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

Autumn Day 2010 More than 8,000 visitors attended Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s annual open house on Sept. 25, 2010. The festivities included food, musical groups, resident-made and Centennial items for purchase and children’s activities. A blood drive was held, staff conducted tours of the Formal Gardens, several classic cars were on display and stands for various Masonic bodies and youth groups featured information and activities. Even the weather cooperated! Thanks to all who attended and everyone who helped organize this exciting event.

In recognition of Masonic Village’s 10th anniversary as a registered Eden Alternative® site, a celebration in the Masonic Health Care Center included a craft bazaar featuring resident-made creations, a mini Farm Market, face painting, finger nail polishing, sugar cookie decorating, a fall door decoration craft and music. Special thanks to the Masonic youth groups who helped escort more than 200 residents to and from the event. The Eden Alternative® promotes active and caring environments which encourage self-worth, camaraderie and excitement for residents and employees.

Mark your calendar: Autumn Day 2011 will be held on September 17!

MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason • February 2011

DDGM Receives Encouragement & Support to Achieve Successful Rehabilitation at Masonic Village Bro. Noble Johnson, District Deputy Grand Master for the 60th Masonic District, keeps a busy schedule with a full-time job and a full-time dedication to serving his lodge and district, not to mention a 2-year-old grandson who needs quality time with his grandfather.

In September, without any warning, a stroke stopped him in his tracks. It affected the entire right side of his body from his face down to his leg. He lost use of his hand and leg, and required the assistance of two aides to use the bathroom.

Through it all, one of the easiest decisions Bro. Noble and his wife, Althea, had to make was choosing to receive rehabilitation services at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. “I knew that is where I wanted to go, and the therapists at the hospital said it’s one of the best,” Bro. Noble said. “They have an outstanding reputation.” It also helped that the Johnsons live in Elizabethtown, about a mile from Masonic Village.

After spending four days in the hospital, Bro. Noble transferred to Masonic Village on a Friday.

When Althea pulled up to the entrance of the Masonic Health Care Center, several staff met her and assisted Bro. Noble up to his private suite in the rehabilitation services area. His room included a bed, bedside table, lounge chair, refrigerator with freezer, television, phone, closet and full-sized bathroom – the accommodations now provided to all patients receiving short-term orthopedic rehabilitation services.

“We couldn’t ask for a better place – a clean room, private, with a nice sized bathroom,” Althea said.

“The food was excellent,” Bro. Noble said, “and they give you the right amount.”

Staff evaluated him that evening, and Bro. Noble started physical and occupational therapy on Saturday and speech therapy on Sunday. He received at least one type of rehabilitation services seven days a week.

Speech therapy was especially difficult since Bro. Noble had to re-learn how to swallow and speak.

“My therapist had to explain the placement of my tongue,” he said, “something you don’t typically think about. I practiced by saying the Pledge of Allegiance and tongue twisters.”

His rehabilitation progressed ahead of schedule.

He even asked for an extra session, 1 ½ hours a day, to speed up the process. “I wanted to be there,” he said.

“If the therapist said I could do it, I believed I could.

It helped that they were tough on me, too.”

Throughout his stay, he and Althea were impressed with the communication between the medical staff and therapists.

“There is a sense of respect,” Althea said. “They’re friendly and personal, and they treat everyone the same.

They called the insurance company, sent his records to the next rehabilitation facility and even helped with obtaining a handicap parking pass. They can speak for the patients, and they go to bat for them.”

“Everyone was encouraging and supportive, including housekeeping, social services and the IT [information technology] department,” Bro. Noble said. “I can’t say enough. It’s the best there is, of what I know.”

“It was a very good experience for us,” Althea said. “We appreciate the friendships.”

Once Bro. Noble was able to walk, insurance no longer covered inpatient rehabilitation services, and he returned home after four weeks. Althea drives him to outpatient therapy three days a week in Lancaster, and he continues his rehabilitation exercises at home.

Staff at his new rehabilitation facility were happy to have him since his treatment at Masonic Village was so advanced.

Bro. Noble has not allowed the stroke to slow him down. During his rehabilitation, he continued to work on his lodge and district responsibilities on his laptop, thanks to the IT department connecting him to the wireless internet within the Masonic Health Care Center. He has attended lodge meetings and in December, was present for the ground breaking of a new Masonic Temple in Lebanon.

Inspired by the care he received, Bro. Noble encouraged his lodge, Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, to make a contribution to Masonic Village’s Rehabilitation Services. The lodge donated $3,000 toward, among other items, a video camera to enable patients to see their progression and an electronic stimulation machine which stimulates muscles to assist patients with walking and standing.

“Seeing how far you’ve come can be the biggest motivator of all,” Bro. Noble said.

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The Best of Both Worlds At a recent Retirement Living Association meeting at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, the speaker asked the audience how many had Wills. Nearly every hand went up. The owners of those hands are contented people. They rest easy, having accomplished the biggest goal of good planning: completing a Will.

In most cases, these residents have named family to receive their assets. A smaller number probably has included a gift to a charity. This is true nationwide.

Of the majority with family-only Wills, many have been donors to Masonic Charities during their lifetime. They assume their support naturally ends at death, since their assets will go to family.

They do not realize they can have the best of both worlds: most of the assets going to family, with a slice going to charity that is small, but enough to continue their annual contribution.

How is this possible? Through a “magic formula” that works wonders. Say a person or couple has an average-sized estate of about $250,000 (this includes house, car, investments, etc.). During life, they give about $200 per year to Masonic Charities.

Of their $250,000 total estate, they decide to leave nearly all of it to their children, and they slice off only $4,000 for Masonic Charities. Here’s where the magic happens. Masonic Charities converts this $4,000 into a perpetual giving machine that produces $200 annually.

It does this by putting the gift into an endowment fund that is invested permanently. The fund earns $200 from this gift every year, matching the couple’s annual support during life.

How do you figure the correct amount to continue your annual contribution after death? Simply take your total annual contribution and multiply by 20. This amount in the Will or estate plan will “endow” your annual contribution in perpetuity.

What if you have a completed Will already? Is it difficult to make a change to it to add a bequest like this? Generally, no. To add such a provision usually only requires adding a “codicil” to the completed Will. This is a simple one-paragraph statement of the change desired.

Bequests matter. All gifts to Masonic Charities are important and tremendously appreciated, including mail contributions, pledges, memorial gifts and gift annuities. Bequests are in a special category, as those who make bequests are making a clear statement that they want Masonic values to continue far into the future.

Masonic Charities’ Gift Planning Office offers free, no-obligation information on Wills and estate planning, including common pitfalls to avoid, tax tips and benefits to the donor of a charitable bequest.

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

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

Masonic Charities, Office of Gift Planning One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022 Phone (800) 599-6454  Please send me information on Wills and estate planning.

 Please send me information on how to make a bequest to Masonic Charities.  I/We have remembered the following Masonic Charity(ies) in my/our Will/estate plan: ________________________. Please let me/us know the benefits of having done so.  Please send me information on the specific Masonic Charities that I can choose to benefit with a charitable bequest.  I have questions about my Will/estate plan. Please call me.  I’ve heard about the guaranteed lifetime income from a “Charitable Gift Annuity.”

Please send me information.  I have other questions. Please call me.

Name(s)_________________________________________________________________________ Address_________________________________________________________________________ City____________________________________State__________Zip_______________________ Telephone_______________________________________________________________________ E-mail Address_________________________________________________________________

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.