Freemason - February 2015

The Pennsylvania

FEBRUARY 2015 edition vol. LxII no. 1

Giving Veterans The Recognition They Deserve

THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON® VOL. LXII, FEBRUARY 2015, NO. 1

©2015 The R.W. Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Pennsylvania

Inside this Issue...

EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman Robert J. Bateman, R.W.G.M. Raymond T. Dietz, R.W.D.G.M. S. Eugene Herritt, R.W.S.G.W. Thomas Gamon, IV, R.W.J.G.W. Jeffrey W. Coy, R.W.G.T. Mark A. Haines, R.W.G.S. EDITORIAL STAFF Tina L. Raybold - Production Coordinator Rich Johnson - Graphic Designer Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation Staff Masonic Library & Museum of Pennsylvania Staff

3 Grand Lodge

(Publication No. USPS 426-140) February 2015 Issue of The Pennsylvania Freemason ® Published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Articles and photographs to be considered for publication should be sent with local Masonic authority to the address above, to the attention of The Pennsylvania Freemason ® or emailed to pafreemason@ masonicvillages.org. Except by special arrangement, all articles, photographs and artwork become the property of the Grand Lodge.

• Grand Master’s Message • Florida Masonic Reunions • Pennsylvania Academy of Masonic Knowledge • December Quarterly Communication Highlights • Change for the Troops

10 Lodge and District

• Random Acts of Kindness & Community Service • Successful One Day Classes Statewide • Programs Honoring Our Veterans • Seeking Hispanic Brethren to Form Spanish-Speaking Lodge • Congratulations to ... • Santa Sightings Across the State • A Leap Forward in Online Communication • Wardens’ Training/Leadership Workshops • Grand Master’s Charity Golf Tournament • Grand Master Visits Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill

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

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

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

22 Freemason

• Masonic Book Review • Historical Notes • Consider a Gift through Your Will

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP (Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United States Code) February 1, 2015, The Pennsylvania Freemason ®, published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Publishers: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Editor: Robert J. Bateman. Owner: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Known bondholders: none. No advertising handled. Free distribution averages 124,000 each quarter.

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

Robert J. Bateman, Editor Mailing address changes

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

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

24 PA Masonic Youth Foundation

• A Weekend of Mystery • DeMolay Honors Grand Master • Assembly Reborn • How to Establish a Scholarship - Part 2

27 Masonic Villages

• Donors Provide Youth Tools for the Modern Student • A Winter Retreat • Helping People is His Craft • 2015 Wish List Items

On the Cover: Bro. Norman Picker, a U.S. Navy veteran and member of Newtown Lodge No. 427.

Correction: Those interested in tickets for a chance to win the Dudley watch offered by Bro. Skip Marrone, W.M., Mount Olivet Lodge No. 704, Lebanon, may contact him at 717-520-9687 or skippp66@comcast.net.

Proceeds from the drawing will benefit the lodge’s charity fund.

Subscribe to the online edition!

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

Brethren, The year 2014 was extremely successful in many ways, as all of the programs and initiatives I instituted on Dec. 27, 2013, have come to fruition and made exciting impacts and changes throughout the Commonwealth and beyond.

Our family nights and events recognizing first responders and veterans have been extremely well received; in fact, I have received numerous thank you letters from first responders and veterans, both from within and outside of the fraternity, expressing appreciation for the recognition and support they have received from our brethren.

Your efforts to support our Masonic youth groups have indeed yielded growth. This is promising, not only in providing numerous opportunities for young people to benefit from our Masonic values and programming, but for the future of our great fraternity. Our Masonic family’s support of Change for the Troops, which has begun to focus on assisting our heroes who are returning home and having difficulties adjusting to civilian life, has blessed many military families who sacrifice daily for our freedom.

To all of you who have reached out to good men in your family, your neighborhood, your workplace, your place of worship and throughout your community to extend an opportunity to join Freemasonry, I thank you – especially those who were first-line signers on petitions. Please, keep up the good work!

I want to thank each and every Mason and your families for your participation and support. Without the enthusiasm and caring from our Masonic family, 2014 would not have been as successful. We have come a long way in making our communities aware of our great fraternity, and how much we care about them. As R.W. Past Grand Master William Slater II said, “We need to share the light of Freemasonry with others,” and I believe that we have done that and more in 2014.

Brethren, I am asking for your assistance with one area in which we have not attained our goals: membership retention.

We all must remember that while increasing membership is always important, retaining our members is equally important.

I urge each and every one of you to help with this vital work. With all the incentives we put in place, we still lost 1,824 members in 2014 due to nonpayment of dues. This is why our lodges’ Membership Retention and Growth committees are so very important, and why we must all do our part in maintaining our fraternity’s integrity.

Through personal contact, the Retention Committee attempts to find out why our brothers have left and what it would take for them to renew their membership. We need to take their concerns seriously and change the way we have been doing business.

We need to inform our brethren of the different programs that are going on in our lodges and how our lodges are now involved with our communities. We need to let them know that they are still a very important part of our fraternity, and that they are not forgotten, but are sorely missed.

We need to remind them about the countless programs and opportunities our Masonic Villages provide to enrich the lives of every Pennsylvania Mason and that of his family. Membership in Pennsylvania Masonry entitles every member and his family to gain access to the vast array of high quality services available at our Masonic Villages. These include retirement living and health care services, whether it be personal care, nursing care, rehabilitation, or specialized care for those with Alzheimer’s Disease. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, individuals can continue to receive these services for the rest of their lives regardless of their ability to pay, should the need arise. continued on p. 4

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Pennsylvania Freemason

In addition, membership includes the services provided by the Masonic Outreach Program. Individuals and families throughout the United States seeking information, direction and education can find the assistance they need through the Outreach Program. Staff can help you understand what services may be available and refer you to the appropriate community services, personal care and skilled care homes, or government and state programs. While the majority of our services are available to the community, the Outreach Program has designated the following services for Pennsylvania Masons and their families only: a panel of attorneys, a finance panel and home assistance.

Other services and resources offered through the Masonic Outreach Program include caregiver support, supplemental income, transportation, senior centers and Medical Assistance, among many others.

As an added benefit, there is the Masonic Blood and Organ Donor Club of Pennsylvania, which provides a valuable service to our fraternity. Each member of this club, his spouse and all children up to 18 years of age can receive blood without any limitation on the number of units of blood or geographic location.

Brethren, the future of Pennsylvania Freemasonry is in each and every one of our hands. That is why I am asking brethren to volunteer to be placed on their lodge’s Membership Retention and Growth Committee. Let’s all go hand in hand in unanimity and make the right choices for all the right reasons. God has truly blessed each and every one of us in making the right choice to become a Pennsylvania Freemason. Let’s all work together in keeping our fraternity alive, well and thriving.

As we launch into 2015, I would like to encourage you with these thoughts, titled “Three Things.” I do not know who the author is, but I believe it is very appropriate for Freemasonry.

There are three things in life that once gone, never come back: 1. Time 2. Words 3. Opportunity

There are three things in life that are most valuable: 1. Love 2. Self-confidence 3. Friends

There are three things in life that may never be lost: 1. Peace 2. Hope 3. Honesty

There are three things in life that are never certain: 1. Dreams 2. Success 3. Fortune

And lastly, there are three things in life that make a person: 1. Hard work 2. Sincerity 3. Commitment

Brethren, Freemasonry is ours to share with the world, not to be kept behind closed and locked doors. If we want Freemasonry to grow, we should nurture it with brotherly love and affection, use the blueprints and designs from the past, the tools of the present, and our dreams to build the future for our great fraternity. We are the builders of our Masonic future, and I believe it is about time that we all get to work. God bless the U.S.A., God bless our great fraternity, and God bless all of you.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Robert J. Bateman R.W. Grand Master

GR AND LODGE 5

February 2015

R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman and his wife, Joanne, Invite You to Attend a

Masonic Reunion HIGHLIGHTS

Information on services provided by the Masonic Villages of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania in Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill, Sewickley and Warminster • Representatives from the Office of Aging to share information on local services • Free blood pressure screenings

SPECIAL HIGHLIGHT

Grand Master Bateman 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 2015, or if you did not receive it when you were eligible in a previous year, please call 717-367-1121, ext. 33382. Please call to make your reservation by Feb. 13, 2015.

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

REUNION SCHEDULE Thursday, March 12, 2015 Tampa Airport Marriott Hotel, Tampa

Friday, March 13, 2015 Hyatt Regency Sarasota, Sarasota

Saturday, March 14, 2015

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.).

PENNSYLVANIA ACADEMY OF MASONIC KNOWLEDGE The 2015 Spring session of the Academy of Masonic Knowledge will be held on Saturday, March 21, in the Deike Auditorium of the Freemasons Cultural Center on the campus of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Registration will open at 8:30 a.m., with the program beginning at 9:30 a.m. A lunch (requested contribution of $10) will be served at noon, and the program will be completed by 3 p.m. All Masons are welcome to attend. Dress is coat and tie.

The program for the day will include:

• Professor Kenneth Loiselle will speak on topics from his research and his recently published book, “Brotherly Love: Freemasonry and Male Friendship in Enlightenment France.”

Kenneth Loiselle, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of history and international studies at Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas. Prof.

Loiselle’s research focuses on the relationship between the Enlightenment and the political revolutions that unfolded during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the history of friendship and private life and French colonialism in the Americas. He is presently conducting research on a book co-authored with Pierre-Yves Beaurepaire on Old Regime Freemasonry.

• Bro. George O. Braatz, P.G.M., Executive Secretary of the Masonic Service Association of North America Bro. Braatz is a Past Grand Master and Grand Secretary Emeritus

of the Grand Lodge of Ohio. The Masonic Service Association of North America was formed in 1919. Now headquartered in Silver Spring, Md., the MSA provides educational material, statistical reports and disaster relief, and administers a hospital visitation program across North America.

Bro. Braatz has previously served for many years on the steering committee of the MSA’s Masonic Information Center and also as a member of the board of directors of the George Washington Masonic Memorial in Alexandria, Va.

Pre-registration is required.

To pre-register, please send your name, address, lodge number and phone number by email to: AMKSecretary@pagrandlodge.org.

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

Please recognize that a cost is incurred to the program for your registration.

If you pre-register and subsequently determine that you will be unable to attend, please have the Masonic courtesy to cancel your reservation by the same method and providing the same information.

We look forward to seeing you!

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Pennsylvania Freemason

December Quarterly Communication Highlights The December Quarterly Communication was held on Dec. 3, 2014, in Corinthian Hall of the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia.

The minutes from the June Quarterly Communication were read and approved. Full code by-laws of two lodges and amendments of 17 lodges were approved.

Reports were received and approved from the following committees: Appeals; By-laws; Fraternal Recognition; and Temples, Halls and Lodge Rooms; as well as Almoners of the Thomas R. Patton Memorial Charity Fund and Stewards of the Stephen Girard Charity Fund.

Amendments to the “Ahiman Rezon” were presented and approved.

2015 budgets for the Grand Lodge, The Masonic Library & Museum, Masonic Charities Fund, Masonic Villages and the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation were presented and approved.

Grand Master Bateman thanked the membership for supporting his programs and challenged them to continue to support them in 2015.

Photographs by Bro. Ken Brooks, Grand Lodge Photographer

Six lodge mergers were approved, effective Dec. 27, 2014: • Richmond Lodge No. 230 merged with Solomon’s Lodge No. 3, both of Philadelphia, to be known as Richmond-Solomon’s Lodge No. 3.

• Harry A. Houseman Lodge No. 717, Bristol, merged with WidenerApollo-Kensington Lodge No. 211, Philadelphia, to be known as Houseman Lodge No. 211.

• MacCalla Lodge No. 596 merged with Shiloh Lodge No. 558, both of Souderton, to be known as Shiloh-MacCalla Lodge No. 558.

• Dallas-Lafayette Lodge No. 396, Easton, merged into Easton Lodge No. 152, to be known as Easton Lodge No. 152.

• Lafayette Lodge No. 652 merged with Centennial Lodge No. 544, both of Carnegie, to be known as Centennial-Lafayette Lodge No. 544.

• Milnor Lodge No. 287 merged with Dallas Lodge No. 231, both of Pittsburgh, to be known as Dallas Lodge No. 231.

February 2015

The Grand Master’s Outstanding Service Award was presented to Bro. Anthony J. Garvey, P.M., Richard Vaux-Ivanhoe Lodge No. 384, Philadelphia.

GR AND LODGE 7 The first-line petition signing winners are as follows: Grand Prize Winner of a $1,000 Gift Card: Bro. Jerome J. Hornyak, P.M., Sharpsville Lodge No. 517, Transfer.

Runners Up - Winners of a $500 Gift Card: Bro. George A. Wray, Shidle Lodge No. 601, Irwin (pictured below) Bro. Leonard S. Czarnecki, Jr., P.M., La Fayette Lodge No. 652, Carnegie

The Grand Master presented the Lewis Jewel to Bros. Anthony J. Bateman, Senior Grand Deacon, and Robert J. Bateman, Jr., P.M., Grand Sword Bearer, both of Springfield-Hanby Lodge No. 767, Springfield.

The Grand Master presented six Master Builders Awards to: • Bros. Jacob S. Bastian, Lehigh Lodge No. 326, Macungie; Earl Roy Fenstermaker, Jr., Slatington Lodge No. 440; James McGhee, III, Greenleaf Lodge No. 561, Allentown; and Ronald K. Willever, Lehigh Valley Day Lodge No. 813, Macungie; all of District 10.

• Bros. Victor M. Alvarez, Whitfield Lodge No. 622, Tatamy, and Rudolph J. Hofbauer, Pocono Lodge No. 780, Cresco; both of District 50.

District Deputy Grand Master Retirements and New Appointments Grand Master Bateman recognized Past District Deputy Grand Masters for their service upon their retirement, and announced their replacements: District A Bro. Robert J. Burns, P.D.D.G.M., Equity Lodge No. 591, Philadelphia, retired, and Bro. Joseph M. Jensen, AthelstanLamberton Lodge No. 482, Philadelphia, was appointed District Deputy Grand Master.

District C Bro. Charles Holloway, P.D.D.G.M., Richard Vaux-Ivanhoe Lodge No. 384, Philadelphia, retired, and Bro. Daniel R. Scheetz, Concordia Lodge No. 67, Jenkintown, was appointed District Deputy Grand Master.

District 2 Bro. Scott T. Matincheck, P.D.D.G.M., Prince Edwin-Spring Creek Lodge No. 486, Middletown, retired, and Bro. Jeffrey C. Lehman, Susquehanna Lodge No. 364, Millersburg, was appointed District Deputy Grand Master.

District 8 Bro. Carl L. Swope, P.D.D.G.M., Doylestown Lodge No. 245, retired, and Bro. Richard H. Bradbury, Sr., Doylestown Lodge No. 245, was appointed District Deputy Grand Master.

District 18 Bro. Kenneth W. McClintock, P.D.D.G.M., Muncy Lodge No. 299, retired, and Bro. James A. Young, Sr., John F. Laedlein Lodge No. 707, Williamsport, was appointed District Deputy Grand Master.

District 25 Bro. Bernard D. Hanmore, P.D.D.G.M., Crawford Lodge No. 234, Meadville, retired, and Bro. R. Joseph Haberlen, Jr., Adelphic Lodge No. 424, Jamestown, was appointed District Deputy Grand Master.

District 46 Bro. David L. Reiner, P.D.D.G.M., Herndon Lodge No. 702, retired, and Bro. Lynn B. Baker, Jr., Middleburg Lodge No. 619, was appointed District Deputy Grand Master.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

CHANGE FOR THE TROOPS Christmas Party Thanks to support from Change for the Troops, the Military and Family Support Center hosted an Exceptional Family Members Program (EFMP) Holiday Party on Dec. 1, for families stationed at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. Col. and Bro. Harris Brooks, Brotherhood Lodge No. 126, Philadelphia, and Bro. Harry Rutter, Grand Lodge Controller, William L. Elkins Lodge No. 271, Philadelphia, attended on behalf of the Grand Lodge. “This was a real feel good event because these are families that really can’t take their child to a regular party because of their special needs,” Bro. Brooks said. He added that the McGuire Family Support Services leadership are “the most dedicated people on the planet, which makes them a pleasure to work with.”

Greetings Col. Brooks, Once again let me say how blessed I am for the Masons, you and your fellows!! Our EFMP families are still raving about the party with joyful thanks to you all for assisting with this event. Your generosity brought joy to families they may not normally experience this time of year. As you know, with our special needs issues - we need to keep the events and activities well controlled. We were able to do that.

We are eternally grateful for your support and your generous hearts.

Karl Hoover Family Support Specialist (EFMP)

Bro. Harry Rutter chats with Polka Dot the Clown during the party.

Above: Masonic attendees and the leadership from McGuire Family Support Services.

February 2015

GR AND LODGE 9 Each month at their meetings, the Retirement Living Association collects for the Change for the Troops program. “This month, we raised the most funds for the program,” Bro. Heinze said. “Col. Brooks is a wonderful speaker.”

After the meeting, Bro. Heinze asked Bro. Brooks if he would consider holding a military baby shower at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Bro. Brooks agreed, and Bro. Joseph E. Murphy, C.E.O. for the Masonic Villages, was enthusiastic about the opportunity. Bros. Brooks and Heinze coordinated with Cindy Phillips, executive director, and the March of Dimes leadership to schedule the event for March 21. Originally planned to be held in Harrisburg, Bro. Brooks said, “Soldiers, airman, sailors and Marines from all over state will be coming for it.”

“We are thrilled to be hosting this incredibly generous event,” Phillips said. “To see the work this organization is doing for the military mothers and fathers is inspiring. We are proud, as part of the Masonic family, to be able to help in some small way to ensure this celebration continues to happen.”

A couple of weeks later, there will be another military baby shower at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.

Col. and Bro. Brooks presents a check to Brig. Gen. Anthony J. Carrelli, Air Commander, Pennsylvania Air National Guard, and Lt. Col. Claudia Malone, Director of the Project HERO Horsham program.

Project HERO Horsham The Grand Lodge also has continued to support the Project HERO Horsham cycling program that offers mental and physical rehabilitation programs for our country’s wounded veterans and healing servicemen and women who may be suffering from brain injuries, post-traumatic stress syndrome, orthopedic amputations and infections. The Horsham Air Guard Station partners with the Philadelphia Veterans Administration Hospital to implement the program.

Through Change for the Troops, Grand Lodge recently presented a $4,000 check to purchase recumbent bikes for two new veterans with spinal cord injuries who wanted to enter the program.

Military Baby Showers On Oct. 2, Col. and Bro. Harris Brooks gave a Change for the Troops presentation at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s Retirement Living Association meeting. Bro. Brooks spoke about the program, how it originated, its current progress and plans for the future to help even more military families who sacrifice each day.

“His presentation was outstanding and well accepted by everyone,” Bro. Jack Heinze, president of the association, said.

“What he does is incredible.”

Bro. Heinze, a retired Army Lt. Col., joined the fraternity in 1980, and is a member of Brownstone Lodge No. 666, Hershey.

Making a Difference & Growing Our Ranks Col. and Bro. Brooks has seen many service members decide to join the fraternity after experiencing or benefitting from one of the many programs offered through Change for the Troops. For example. Lt. Col. and Bro. Gino Appone, Commander, National Guard 111th Communications Squadron, was made a Mason by receiving all three degrees at once in Brotherhood Lodge No. 126, Philadelphia, through a dispensation from Grand Master Bateman before being deployed to Afghanistan. When he arrived, he contacted Bro. Brooks and asked him to send some calling cards for the troops. While deployed, he and other Masons attended lodge meetings under the auspices of the Grand Lodge of Oklahoma, which even sent over tuxedos for them to wear to the meetings.

Other officers and airmen from his 111th Attack Wing joined the fraternity because of positive experiences with Project HERO and calling cards at the Horsham National Guard facility.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Random Acts of Kindness & Community Service Initiatives As the holidays wind down, now is the ideal time to keep the giving going. Of course, random acts of kindness aren’t always planned, but now is a good time to start coordinating lodge community service initiatives for the spring, whether it’s cleaning up a park or cemetery, hosting a blood drive or pancake breakfast, sponsoring a local youth sports team or signing up for community festivals, charity races and parades. Don’t forget to visit www.pagrandlodge.org/rak to enter your random acts of kindness on the registry.

A Man of Many Good Deeds Bro. Brendan Tanner, Cassia-Mount Horeb Lodge No. 273, Ardmore, has been busy performing multiple acts of kindness throughout his community. He took part in a bake sale to raise money for veterans and their families at the Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and he volunteered for the Special Olympics at Villanova University, providing basic medical support for athletes. He also helped during Philadelphia-area Masons’ 4th annual Day of Giving to benefit homeless people in Love Park on Nov. 9, and he spent part of Thanksgiving day delivering meals to home-bound individuals in the greater Philadelphia area.

All in a Night’s Work While driving home from a lodge event at night, Bro. David Leidy, Mozart Lodge No. 436, Philadelphia, stopped at a supermarket where a man and his daughter were parked in the front loading area with their car hood up.

Bro. Leidy installed an emergency fan-belt from his tool box, jumped the car and gave the man $20 for gas. Only a few blocks down the road, he gave another man a jump-start.

His night wasn’t over yet. A few blocks from

home, he stopped in a Walgreens and bought two cups of hot chocolate for some men selling trees on Broad Street who looked very cold.

Show Time!

Members of Harmony Lodge No. 429, Zelienople, teamed up with the historic nonprofit Strand Theater to present “Mark Twain Live!” on Oct. 11. Billed as a fundraiser, the show’s real motivation was to raise community awareness of the lodge and Freemasonry. The lodge donated $340 in ticket proceeds to the Southwest Butler Food Cupboard.

After a welcome from Bro. Frank Morgan, W.M., the audience listened to Mark Twain

discuss his Masonic affiliation as Bro. Samuel Clemens, a member of Polar Star Lodge No. 79 in St. Louis, Missouri. The more than 60 attendees shared rave reviews after the 90-minute show. Mark Twain was portrayed by actor Roger Mallon of Reading, who is available to perform at other Masonic fundraisers across the state. His website is www.heresmarktwain.com.

Harmony Lodge hopes to repeat this type of show annually to help keep Freemasonry in the forefront of the local community. You can see the show online at http://bit.ly/1IxVYnT.

“Mark Twain”

LODGE AND DISTRICT 11

February 2015

Bro. Frank Morgan, W.M.; Sharon Klaiber, director of the Food Cupboard; and Bro. James Knights.

Rubber to the Road for Good Causes Masonic Motorcycle Club International Chapter 51 has been busy raising money to benefit struggling families in Fulton and Huntingdon counties through monthly motorcycle rides including members and guests.

The group presented a $250 check to the Fulton County Food Basket, which provides food on an emergency basis to those in need who have been referred by local human services agencies and clergy. Donations are especially appreciated during the holiday season because of government funding cuts. The Food Basket also provides more than 300 local students with a backpack each weekend containing food and educates them on nutrition.

The group donated $250 each to the Huntingdon Area Food Pantry, Mount Union Area Food Pantry and the Southern Huntingdon Food Pantry. They also raised $300 for Ricky’s Wheels in Huntingdon, a nonprofit organization providing electronic wheelchairs to those who cannot afford to purchase one.

The club is based in the 34th Masonic District and is comprised of members from the various Masonic lodges in Huntingdon and Fulton counties and the surrounding areas.

l-r: Bro. Roy E. Spidle, Cromwell Lodge No. 572, Orbisonia; Susan Cubbage, executive director, Fulton County Food Basket; and Bro. Michael Rotz, P.M., Mount Zion Lodge No. 774, McConnellsburg.

A Generous Showing On Dec. 6, Duquesne-McKeesport Lodge No. 731, Duquesne, held its annual Christmas party. The Norwin High School Show Choir provided entertainment for the evening, and brethren learned that all money the choir collected would go toward the Hearth Shelter for battered and abused women and their children. The main goal of the shelter is for women to complete a two-year program, during which they attend college or learn a trade to help them succeed after leaving the shelter. Lodge members decided to make an additional donation to the Norwin Show Choir for the shelter. Worshipful Master-elect Wayne Minnicks presented a check to choir director Bridget Faulk.

Wreaths Across America On Dec. 1, members of Mitchell Lodge No. 296, Jenkintown, joined hundreds of volunteers to place wreaths throughout the Washington Crossing National Cemetery in Newtown, Pa., as part of the Fifth Annual Wreaths Across America program coordinated by the Guardians of the National Cemetery.

Bundled up against the December chill, the brethren’s hearts warmed with patriotism and reverence as they helped lay more than 4,500 wreaths on the graves of veterans.

Bros. Michael Kopczynski, John Davis and Victor Casill (not shown is Raymond T. George, P.D.D.G.M.-C) lay wreaths on veterans’ graves.

PA Faithful Defenders On Sept. 28, brethren from Bedford,, Blair and Huntingdon counties gathered at The Twisted Trout Restaurant in Bedford to receive their charter as the newest Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association Chapter. Called the PA Faithful Defenders, (shown below) their goal is to contribute to the relief of our widows and orphans.

The chapter has gotten off to a good start.

On Sept. 21, they held a benefit ride with 47 motorcycles and eight vehicles participating to raise over $1,600 for Mrs. Robbi Beckett, who was pregnant at the time of the ride, and her two daughters, ages 8 and 6. Mrs. Beckett’s husband, G. Brian Beckett, Jr., tragically passed away on Aug. 27 after falling from a roof. The late Mr. Beckett is a nephew of Bro. George R. Beckett, Jr., of Bedford Lodge No 320.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Successful One Day Classes Statewide

Districts A & D

District 30

On June 28, Masonic Districts A and D welcomed their newest Master Masons at a One Day Class held at the Tacony Masonic Temple, Philadelphia.

The newly raised brethren included: Bros. Joseph Ballato, Nicholas Dimarcantonio and Jamal Heacock, all of Joseph H. Brown Lodge No. 751, Philadelphia; brothers Daniel and Paul Jones, William Penn Harmony Lodge No. 52, Philadelphia; Matthew Kulpa, III, Jerusalem Lodge No. 506, Philadelphia; Nicholas Marie, William Penn Harmony Lodge No. 52; Alexander Mostovyk, Jerusalem Lodge No. 506; William Parry, Richmond Lodge No. 230, Philadelphia; Gregory Smith, Athelstan-Lamberton Lodge No. 482, Philadelphia; Hugh Snyderman, William Penn Harmony Lodge No. 52; Jeffrey Thomas, Joseph H. Brown Lodge No. 751; and Andrew Valerio, Tacony Lodge No. 600, Philadelphia. Pictured with them are, front row, l-r: Bros. Robert J. Burns, D.D.G.M.-A; and the brethren who conferred the degrees: Kenneth B. Shinn, Jr., Harry A. Houseman Lodge No. 717, Bristol; Joseph Jensen, P.M., Athelstan-Lamberton Lodge No. 482, Philadelphia; and Frederick J. Fedak, P.M., Widener-Apollo-Kensington Lodge No. 211, Philadelphia.

The 30th Masonic District held its One Day Class on Oct. 25 at the Greensburg Masonic Center, hosted by Westmoreland Lodge No. 518, Greensburg. Degree teams comprised of members from the nine lodges conferred the degrees upon 17 candidates.

Presentations were made by the Valley of Pittsburgh, A.A.S.R., Syria Shrine and York Rite.

District 1

On Oct. 18, the First Masonic District held its One Day Class at the Lancaster Masonic Center. Among the 17 new candidates who became members of their respective lodges that day was a very special candidate from the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, Bro. William A. Barnett, who became a member of Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, at the age of 100.

The class members were also afforded the opportunity to continue their Masonic journey into Scottish Rite in the afternoon by joining the Lancaster Lodge of Perfection.

LODGE AND DISTRICT 13

February 2015

Districts 26 & 53

On May 3, at the Scottish Rite Cathedral, New Castle, Districts 26 and 53 held a joint a One Day Class hosted by Mahoning-New Castle Lodge No. 243, New Castle. Above, the newly raised members are shown with their mentors.

Districts 20, 34 & 41 On Nov. 1, the 20th, 34th and 41st Masonic Districts held their 2014 One Day Masonic Journey at Bedford Lodge No. 320, welcoming 28 new Master Masons into the fraternity.

1st row, l-r: Bros. David J. Dick, Mountain Lodge No. 281, Altoona; Jacob J. Lockard, Juniata Lodge No. 282, Hollidaysburg; Raymond L. Black, Jr., Troy D. Crumrine and Gary A. Lewis, all of Woodbury Lodge No. 539, Roaring Spring; Nathaniel M. Dell, Shawn P. Garman, Ervin R. Henschel, Jr., and Michael D. Wachter, all of Hiram Lodge No. 616, Altoona; and Rusty E. Corle, Kenneth R. Corrie, Jr., Matthew R. Mentzer, Justin A. Mosser and Tyson M. Reid, all of Bedford Lodge No. 320.

2nd row, l-r: Bros. M. Scott Snyder and Garrett B. Tice, both of Bedford Lodge No. 320; Bro. Jesse V. Fetters, Garry P. Ford, Jr., and James A. Laughlin, all of Everett Lodge No. 524; Allen E. Dell, Darren R. Glunt, Jr., and David L. McCubbins, all of Mount Union Lodge No. 688; Christopher I. Snyder and Matthew D. Snyder, both of Mount Zion Lodge No. 774, McConnellsburg; John C. Kiser and Barry R. Kiser, both of Cambria Lodge No. 278, Johnstown; Timothy J. Ault, Acacia Lodge No. 355, Blairsville; and Steven J. Blanar, Greater Johnstown Lodge No. 538, Johnstown.

District 49 Ten new brethren were raised at the 49th District One Day Class on Oct. 18 at the McKeesport Masonic Center, with 60 members on the conferral teams and mentoring on the sidelines.

14 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason

Programs Honoring Our Veterans On Nov. 15, Huguenot Lodge No. 377, Kutztown, opened its doors to the community inviting all local veterans to share a wonderful meal and fellowship. Local Cub Scout Pack 101 helped with the meal and served almost 40 veterans in attendance.

Bro. Jesse Tamburino, W.M., thanked the veterans, as well as a visitor who was a veteran from the Royal Air Force, for their service.

Each veteran shared stories about their time in the military.

On Nov. 9, members and officers of Newtown Lodge No. 427, Woodside; University Lodge No. 51, Philadelphia; SouthamptonRadiant Star Lodge No. 806, Warminster; Lu Lu Shrine’s Motorcade; and Morrisville Assembly No. 107, Rainbow Girls, participated in the 8th Annual Lower Makefield Township Veterans Day Parade.

This year’s event was extra special because a six-year effort to raise funds, acquire land, and design and build a Veterans Monument culminated with a dedication ceremony observed by several hundred community members.

Newtown Lodge is located across the street from where the parade historically has ended and where the new Lower Makefield Veterans Monument resides. Newtown Lodge members and their wives welcomed nearly 2,000 spectators to enjoy refreshments and use the lodge’s restrooms.

Special thanks to Bros. D. William Roberts, Avalon Lodge No. 657, Pittsburgh, and Rick V. Cross, Washington Lodge No. 164, for driving the Grand Lodge Statue of Liberty float across the Commonwealth from a parade in downtown Pittsburgh Saturday morning to Bucks County in time for the parade early Sunday afternoon!

Bros. John Horn, P.M.; Carl Swope, D.D.G.M.-8; Joe Scolnick, S.W.; Jim Umlauf; Peter Carter, S.W.; and Henry Mroz, W.M., wait for the monument dedication to begin.

February 2015

LODGE AND DISTRICT 15 At a special meeting of Waymart Lodge No. 542 on Nov. 2, more than 130 veterans were honored for their service and enjoyed a presentation by Bro. George Washington, played by Bro. Mike Weinstein, Milford Lodge No. 344, in period clothing. The almost 350 attendees could also view Bro. Washington’s Inaugural Bible, brought for the occasion by three officers of St. John’s Lodge No. 1, New York City.

Waymart Lodge No. 542 extended an invitation beyond its members and families to local Rainbow Girls, DeMolay and Eastern Star chapters; other lodges within the 14th Masonic District; and local veterans organizations.

Carl L. Swope, D.D.G.M.-8, on the Grand Lodge float.

Bro. Norman Picker, a U.S. Navy veteran and member of Newtown Lodge No. 427, looks at the newly dedicated Lower Makefield Township Veterans Monument.

On Dec. 14, the officers of Nanticoke Lodge No. 332 presented the Grand Lodge veterans program at the formation of Bravo Battery 109th Field Artillery of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, held at the Nanticoke Armory. Afterward, they gave each guardsman and woman a veterans pin and expressed appreciation for their service to our country.

The presentation was attended by the following lodge officers: Barry W. Littleford, D.D.G.M.-12; Robert B. Dunn, P.M., W.M.; Anthony J. Lucidi, Jr., P.M., S.W., also of Wyoming Lodge No. 468; David J. Hewitt, J.W.; James M. Shypulefski, Treasurer; Grant R. Barrall, P.M., Secretary; and David A. Oshinski, Sr., Pursuivant.

Seneca Lodge No. 805, Kittanning, held a veterans program on Nov. 5, attended by 78 active military personnel and retired veterans, as well as 15 Eagle Scouts and Scoutmasters. The VFW and American Legion also participated in the program.

Lodge members in the photo below include: Bros. Taylor Chiesa; Kyle Fagan; Joe Johannes; Bill Vargas; Scott Rush, W.M.; Terry Dragwa; Mike Jones; James Armstrong; and Jeff Gogolski.

16 LODGE AND DISTRICT Bedford Lodge No. 320 honored military veterans after their Stated Meeting on Nov. 13.

Bro. Fred B. Glasgow provided an enjoyable and entertaining discussion of his personal and military achievements. After his hall-offame football career at Northern Bedford High School, Shippensburg University and Syracuse University, Bro. Glasgow enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He became a commissioned officer in 1980, graduated as a Top Gun pilot in 1984 and later became a Top Gun instructor. He has recorded 1,700 flights and 600 carrier landings. As a technical advisor, he even appeared in the movie “Top Gun” starring Tom Cruise and Kelly McGillis.

L-r: Veteran Bros. Thomas L. Livingston and Owen Kay Crist, Bedford Lodge No. 320; Bro. Daniel Palicka, Westmoreland Lodge No. 518, Greensburg; Bros.

John D. Brenner, Sr., Fred B. Glasgow, Roger A. Claycomb, P.M., and Erle W. Sipe, Bedford Lodge No. 320; Ronald G. Plush; and Bros. Larry D. Cole and Jeffrey W. Onstead, P.M., Bedford Lodge No. 320.

Pennsylvania Freemason

Mount Moriah Lodge No. 300, Huntingdon, honored military veterans at their Stated Meeting on Nov. 10.

Bro. Jobe M. Glenny, S.W., presided as Worshipful Master for the meeting because Bro. Richard S. Irvin, P.M., W.M., having been elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives a few days prior, was called to Harrisburg to begin preparations for his new responsibilities.

The veterans received the Grand Master’s lapel emblem and were thanked for their service.

1st row, l-r: Bros. L. Richard Lightner, P.M.; Charles C. Mong; Ronald J. Bowser, P.M.; Jobe M. Glenny, S.W., Acting W.M.; Paul E. Dell; Jesse A. Helsel; Frank W. Frew, Steward; and Charles L. States, P.M., Chaplain.

2nd row, l-r: Bros. Sammuel L. Harker; John D. Clark, Jr.; John B. Eberle; James C. Metz, P.M.; William R. McKnight; Brady L. Smith; Paul R. Taylor; Roy A. Walter; and Robert E. Shirey, P.M.

Seeking Hispanic Brethren to Form Spanish-Speaking Lodge Alto Meridiano is a Masonic Club that is seeking to gain enough members to be constituted by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania as the first Spanish-speaking Blue Lodge in the jurisdiction. The club has monthly meetings, as well as other events, and invites all Hispanic brothers who wish to join. Interested brethren may contact Bro. Basilio Veiga, P.M., at basilio.veiga@gmail.com or 610-255-0134.

l-r: Bros. Paul Salvato III, P.M., Penn Lodge No. 709, Concordville and Chester Lodge No. 236, Grand Tyler and Vice President of Alto Meridiano Masonic Club; London McAuley, New London Lodge No. 545; Charles Shelton, Oxford Lodge No. 353; Jerry Brown, W.M., Ellwood Lodge No. 599, Ellwood City; Hosea F. Crooms and Basilio Veiga, P.M., New London Lodge No. 545; Curros Enriquez, Santiago de Compostela Lodge No. 114, Spain, and President of Alto Meridiano Masonic Club; Robert J. Bateman, R.W.G.M.; Paul Salvato, Jr., P.M., Penn Lodge No. 709, Concordville; Dan Madrigal, Ephrata Lodge No. 665; EnriQue Rosario, Palestine–Roxborough Lodge No. 135, Philadelphia, Merchantville, New Jersey Lodge No. 119 and Treasurer of Alto Meridiano Masonic Club; Howard J. Bowhall, P.M., New London Lodge No. 353; Victor Alvarez, Whitfield Lodge No. 622, Tatamy; and Lawrence DiPietro, P.M., Penn Lodge No. 709.

Congratulations to…

LODGE AND DISTRICT 17

February 2015

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1. Bro. Luke Tanner, Bloss Lodge No. 350, Blossburg, was the first Mason in District 17 to receive the Master Builders Award on Sept. 15. l-r: Bros. Shane Nickerson, J.W.; Karl Zierle S.W.; Roger Bunn, W.M.; Luke Tanner; and Robert Hodder, P.M., all of Bloss Lodge No. 350, Blossburg.

2. King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346, Connellsville, celebrated its 150th Anniversary on Oct. 11, with a grand celebration in the foyer of the Carnegie Music Hall in Pittsburgh.

Over 200 people celebrated at a black tie formal dinner, then retired to the music hall to enjoy entertainment by “The Vogues.”

Bros. Donald B. Moreman, W.M, and Robert J. Bateman, R.W. Grand Master.

3. Bro. Robert G. Lenhardt, P.M., member of Acacia Lodge No. 355, Blairsville, and Doric Lodge No. 630, Sewickley, and resident of the Masonic Village at Sewickley, received the Century Club Award for having conferred over 100 degrees at the Nov. 13 stated meeting of Doric Lodge. l-r: Bro. William Moisey, D.D.G.M.-37; Bro. Robert Lenhardt; and his wife, Jean.

4. On Dec. 14, Bro. Robert J. Bateman, R.W. Grand Master, was presented The Legion of Honor Bronze Medallion by the Chapel of Four Chaplains, granted for extraordinary contributions to the well-being of others at the national or world level, to world peace, or to inter-faith and inter-ethnic understanding. Bros. Raymond T. Dietz, R.W. Deputy Grand Master; S. Eugene Herritt, R.W. Senior Grand Warden; Thomas Gamon, IV, R.W. Junior Grand Warden; and Mark A. Haines, R.W. Grand Secretary, received The Legion of Honor Humanitarian Award, given in recognition of a lifetime commitment to selfless service and societal advancement that has demonstrably affected the quality of life in the community, state or nation, service without regard to faith or race. Bro. Jeffrey W. Coy, R.W. Grand Treasurer, previously received this award. For more information about the Chapel of Four Chaplains, visit www.fourchaplains.org. l-r: Capt. Louis A. Cavaliere, U.S. Navy, Retired; Mrs. Joanne Bateman; Bro. Robert J. Bateman, R.W. Grand Master; Bro. G. Kent Hackney, P.D.D.G.M.; and Christine M. Beady, Executive Director.

5. For the first time in Zembo Shrine history, the Divan is comprised of all Past Masters. At the parade in conjunction with the Mid-Atlantic Shrine Association Convention in Virginia Beach on Sept. 3-7, the Zembo Divan, in a display of Masonic unity, paraded wearing not only their Shrine Fez but also their tails while carrying their Master’s top-hats and gavels - and as a result, was awarded first place among Temple Divans in Division 1 above 1,801 members! l-r: High Priest and Prophet Robert D. Cook, P.M., Eureka-West Shore Lodge No. 302, Mechanicsburg; Chief Rabban Thomas O. Morgan, P.M., Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, Harrisburg; Illustrious Sir Lynn E. Shields, Potentate, P.M., Eureka-West Shore Lodge No. 302; Assistant Rabban Michael W. Rinehart, P.M., Perry Lodge No. 458, Marysville; and Oriental Guide Richard H. Smith, P.M., Eureka-West Shore Lodge No. 302.

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18 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason

Santa Sightings Last holiday season, brethren brought cheer in various ways to the young and young at heart.

Santa visited Westmoreland Lodge No. 518, Greensburg; Ligonier Lodge No. 331; and King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346, Connellsville, and brought gifts for the children at their annual breakfast on Dec. 6. His reindeer got quite a workout that day, as he also appeared at Bedford Lodge No. 320’s family Christmas gathering.

On Dec. 13, Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, hosted its annual Holiday Breakfast at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Traditionally a huge fundraiser for the lodge, this year’s event was no exception.

Service started at 6 a.m., with guests waiting early to get in and enjoy an all-you-can-eat breakfast of eggs, sausage, potatoes, onions and scrapple, all coming from local vendors and farmers. Brethren kept busy serving right up until the end at 11 a.m. In total, more than 1,600 patrons were served! Santa and Mrs. Claus were on hand to listen to children’s wish lists and take pictures, and the Model Railroad Club was open for visitors to view its massive display of trains.

The money raised from this event goes into the lodge’s charity fund, which enables the brothers to assist the community in several ways, including donating to good works projects, assisting those in financial distress and supporting the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.

Thank you to the 20 Job’s Daughters from Bethel No. 15, Elizabethtown, who volunteered to help make the lodge’s event a success!

February 2015

LODGE AND DISTRICT 19

Across the State!

The Masonic Village and Elizabethtown Model Railroad Club members proved that Santa isn’t the only one with a big heart. When a few of the young boys at the children’s home expressed that they wanted a train set this season, the “train guys” bought them one and set it up in Longdon Cottage.

Bro. Ray Betz, Friendship Lodge No. 663, Fawn Grove, set up the track, and the boys helped to set up a little village around it. They had a blast with it all season long!

Thirty members and guests from Jerusalem Lodge No. 506, Philadelphia, visited the Masonic Conference Center – Patton Campus in Elizabethtown to host a Christmas party for residents of the Masonic Children’s Home and Bleiler Caring Cottage.

Everyone gathered in the atrium and sang Christmas songs, and as they sang “Here Comes Santa Claus,” the jolly ol’ elf himself entered the room! Santa sang with them and handed out stockings filled with a $50 gift card and candy. The lodge also provided cookies and punch. Their generosity won’t end with the holiday season. In 2012, members presented each child with a bike. In 2015, they plan to buy bikes for the children who have a need.

Top: Residents of the Bleiler Caring Cottage enjoy their gifts.

Bottom: Santa and Jerusalem Lodge members greet youth from the Masonic Children’s Home.

20 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason

A LEAP FORWARD in Wardens’ Training/ Online Communication Leadership Workshops

by Mark A. Haines, R.W. Grand Secretary The Grand Lodge is fully underway with a multi-year project to modernize our computer system and improve communications services for members. A small group of lodges is currently participating in a pilot program that allows the software developers to evaluate how well the new software systems work and how well they fit into the business of the fraternity. Being in a pilot group means that when the lodge officers attempt to go about their business, the software sometimes breaks, gets fixed, the work is done again … and repeat.

These officers deserve a big round of thanks for their enthusiasm, dedication, patience and perseverance. Another group deserving of our thanks is the corps of volunteers being organized to help support the new system as it is rolled out to our hundreds of lodges and over 100,000 members throughout the state.

At the same time that we are building new systems to provide services, we are working to ensure that the member database has correct information for getting in touch with every member. The company, Harris Connect, is working with the Grand Lodge in this capacity for this as well as other projects, and may be reaching out to you to confirm your information. More details about this process will be provided as appropriate.

The Wardens’ Training Workshops for 2015 are listed below.

You may attend the workshop of your choice, but the Education Committee must be notified as to which one you will attend. Sessions are on Saturdays from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., with lunch at noon. Coffee and pastries are served prior to the session. Business casual dress is acceptable.

Jan. 31 - Region 3 Juniata & Portage Lodge, Holidaysburg Feb. 21 - Region 4 Masonic Village at Sewickley Feb. 28 - Region 5 Meadville Masonic Center Mar. 7 - Region 7 Mountain Laurel Golf Club, White Haven Mar. 14 - Region 2 Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Mar. 28 - Region 1 SAP Building, Newtown Square Apr. 11 - Region 6 Muncy Lodge No. 299 The deadline for registration for each workshop is one week prior to the session. Later registrations cannot be accepted and “walk-ins” are not encouraged. To register, send your name, phone number, email address, lodge name and number, district, title and which session you plan to attend to MaryAnn Austin via email maustin@ pagrandlodge.org, fax 215-988-1953, or mail to her attention at 1 North Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19107. Questions or concerns should be directed to MaryAnn at the above e-mail address or by phone: 215-988-1939.

Lodge and district Masonic Education chairmen are encouraged to attend. We look forward to seeing all interested officers at one of these dynamic and informative workshops.

GRAND MASTER’S CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT July 16, 2015 at the Irem Country Club in Dallas, PA Benefits Masonic Charities

Fee: Only $125 per golfer – includes lunch, golf and dinner!

Schedule 11 a.m. Lunch Noon Shotgun Start 4:30-5:30 p.m. Social Hour 5:30 p.m. Dinner with Carving Station, Followed by Awards

To play in the event, send the coupon below by June 22 with a check payable to Irem County Club to: Grand Master’s Golf Tournament c/o Irem Country Club 397 Country Club Road Dallas, PA 18612 For more information or to sponsor the event, call 570-675-4465 ext. 241 or Bro. Ron Aungst, R.W.P.G.M. 570-295-2560

Grand Master’s Charity Golf Outing

Enclosed is my check payable to Irem Country Club in the amount of $________ for the following golfers:

Name__________________________________ Lodge No.__________________ Address__________________________________________________________ City___________________________________ State________ Zip___________ Name__________________________________ Lodge No.__________________ Address__________________________________________________________ City___________________________________ State________ Zip___________ Name__________________________________ Lodge No.__________________ Address__________________________________________________________ City___________________________________ State________ Zip___________ Name__________________________________ Lodge No.__________________ Address__________________________________________________________ City___________________________________ State________ Zip___________

LODGE AND DISTRICT 21

February 2015

Grand Master Visits Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill

Bro. Joseph Sullivan presents a plaque to Grand Master Robert Bateman.

R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman visited Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill during an open meeting of the 801 Compass Club (a Masonic group named for Masonic Village’s address - 801 Ridge Pike), where he presented Masonic Service Emblems and Masonic Service Certificates to residents: • 50-year Service Emblems: Bros. Charles G. Frishmuth, P.M., Palestine-Roxborough Lodge No. 135, Philadelphia; J. Russell Mann, P.M., Solomon’s Lodge No. 3, Philadelphia; and Herbert W. Reynolds, Fritz Lodge No. 308, Conshohocken (Christian Reynolds received his emblem during a stated meeting of Fritz Lodge No. 308).

• 60-year Service Emblems: Bros. Samuel E. Fratis, Meridian Sun Lodge No. 2, Philadelphia; James H. Myhre, Philadelphia-Potter Lodge No. 72, Philadelphia; William H. Munholland, Thomson Lodge No. 340, Paoli; and Robert Rodgers, Jr., Fritz Lodge No. 308 and Joseph H. Brown Lodge, Philadelphia.

• 70-year Service Emblems: Bros. Fred H. Goldblatt, Fritz Lodge No. 308 and Williamson-Corinthian Lodge No. 368, Philadelphia; and William M. McCain, Chester Lodge No. 236.

• 55-year Certificates: Bros. Edwin M. Jones, P.M., Frankford Lodge No. 292, Philadelphia; and Nelson M. Williams, P.M., Charity Lodge No. 190, Jeffersonville.

• 65-year Certificates: Bros. Raymond R. Barker, P.M., AthelstanLamberton Lodge No. 482, Philadelphia, and William Penn Harmony Lodge No. 52, Philadelphia; William G. Feurer, Solomon’s Lodge No. 3; George F. McGrory, Pennsylvania Meridian Sun Lodge No. 2; Albert H. Schoellhammer, P.M., MacCalla Lodge No. 596, Souderton; and George A. Valdes, Bristol Lodge No. 25.

Grand Master Bateman also handed out First Responder pins to nine residents and three community members. He presented a vehicle sun shield to Bro. Joseph Sullivan for being a first-line signer on a petition for membership, as well as his Grand Master medallion to display at the Masonic Village. On behalf of the 801 Compass Club, Bro. Sullivan presented a plaque to the Grand Master, which Bro. Chris Reynolds made by hand. It features the Square and Compasses, the Grand Master’s title and five stars.

The Grand Master was accompanied by Bro. Mark A. Haines, R.W. Grand Secretary; Bro. Jeffrey Heller, D.D.G.M.-6; Bro. Carl Swope, D.D.G.M.-8; and Bro. Michael D. McKee, Jerusalem Lodge No. 506, Philadelphia, Special Assistant to the Grand Master.

Approximately 155 residents and their families and friends gathered for the ceremony.

Enjoy Life Your Way in Lafayette Hill!

Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill broke ground on 60 new apartments in 2014, and they are going fast! Reserve today to choose your ideal home. Each apartment includes premium features like stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, a walk-in closet, and a balcony or patio.

Maintenance-free living at Masonic Village gives you the freedom to choose how to spend your days. No more landscaping, home maintenance or cooking - we take care of it all! Enjoy indoor access to amenities like a wellness center, bowling alley, parties, two restaurants, clubs and much more. Experience financial security like never before.

Lunch & Learn

Thursday, March 12 • 10:30 a.m.

Masonic Village Auditorium • 801 Ridge Pike, Lafayette Hill, PA www.masonicvillages.org

REGISTER BY MARCH 5:

610-828-5760

22 FREEMASON

Pennsylvania Freemason

Freemasonry Defined: Using History to Understand the Fraternity

by Shawn M. Gorely • Reviewed by Cathy Giaimo, Assistant Librarian, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania

Shawn M. Gorley, Pennsylvania Freemason and author, has written a book that examines the influence of Freemasonry upon a few historic events and people in “Freemasonry Defined: Using History to Understand the Fraternity.”

Bro. Gorley has chosen topics that are important to Freemasonry such as brotherly love, relief and charity and other well-known subjects. Within each chapter are lessons on how Freemasonry has worked its influence upon society.

The chapter on education discusses the importance Freemasons place on knowledge and the influence they had in developing public education in this country. Among them are Bro. Benjamin Franklin, who founded the Publick Academy of Philadelphia, now the University of Pennsylvania; Bro. DeWitt Clinton, who influenced the public schools in New York City; Bro. and Judge Augustus Woodward, University of Michigan founder, and others less well known but equally important in the pursuit of education in the United States.

A hallmark of Freemasonry is the equality of all members within the fraternity. No matter your station in life outside the lodge room, once you are a brother, you are an equal to your fellow lodge members. In this chapter, Bro. Gorley writes about the life of Ely S. Parker, Seneca Native American and Freemason. Bro. Parker studied law and civil engineering, worked on the Erie Canal Project, among others, and helped write the

terms for surrender and the peace treaty ending the Civil War at Appomattox. Along the way, he joined the fraternity, where he found he was accepted for who he was, not from where he came.

Probably no book on Freemasonry is complete without mentioning Anti-Masonry.

Bro. Gorley includes the sorry history of the Morgan Affair, but he also discusses Freemasonry in Germany during Hitler’s reign and the internment of Masons in the concentration camps. In this section, he briefly describes the state of post-World War I German Freemasonry and how the Nazi Party worked to suppress the fraternity. Despite the many powerful opposing forces, Freemasonry managed to survive.

Bro. Gorley has written this book to encourage all brothers to seek more from themselves and to challenge them to make a difference inside or outside their lodge.

If you wish to borrow this book, please contact the library at 800-462-0430, ext.

1933, or visit The Masonic Library & Museum online catalog at www.pagrandlodge.org. This book is also available for purchase from the Museum Shop in the Masonic Temple at www.masonicmuseumgifts.com.

Historical Notes: Sousa’s Sesquicentennial Plus 10

by Glenys Waldman, Librarian, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania

John Philip Sousa (1854-1932), the American bandmaster and composer known as “The March King,” was born Nov. 6, 1854, in Washington, D.C. By age 15, he was a teacher of music and by 17, a conductor. He was leader of the U.S. Marine Corps Band, 1880-1892, and after that, of his own band, with which he successfully toured the world, often giving concerts at Willow Grove Park outside Philadelphia. Among his most famous marches are: “Semper Fidelis,” 1888; “Washington Post March,” 1889; “Liberty Bell,” 1893; “King Cotton,” 1897; “Stars and Stripes Forever,” 1897; “Hands Across the Sea,” 1899; and “Nobles of the Mystic Shrine,” 1923. In addition, he wrote comic operas, including “El Capitan” and “The Bride Elect,” and books.

Sousa petitioned Hiram Lodge No. 10, Washington, D.C., on June 3, 1881. He was initiated July 15 and raised on Nov. 18 in the same year. A member of Eureka Chapter No. 4, Royal Arch Masons, Washington, D.C., he was knighted in Columbia Commandery No. 2, Knights Templar, on Dec. 10, 1886, and was a member of the Almas Shrine Temple, all in Washington, D.C. At the time of his death, he had been a Mason for more than 50 years. William R. Denslow. 10,000 Famous Freemasons (Trenton, MO: Missouri Lodge of Research, © 1957-1961), v. 4.

The Library and Museum collections hold, among other Sousa items, a photograph and calling card, “A Book of Instruction for the Field Trumpet and Drum, together with the Trumpet and Drum Signals now in use in the Army, Navy and Marine Corps of the United States;” his autobiography, “Marching Along: Recollections of Men, Women and Music;” sheet music, “Washington Post March;” a biography by Paul E. Bierley; and several recordings.

FREEMASON 23

February 2015

Consider a Gift through Your Will Benefits: • It costs you nothing during your lifetime.

• You can change your gift during your lifetime.

• The impact you make on each of the Masonic Charities can be substantial!

Recent gifts received have provided: • Medical and nursing care for residents at our Masonic Villages who have depleted their assets; • Clothing, food and support for children from broken homes residing at the Masonic Children’s Home; • Maintenance and preservation of valuable collections at the Masonic Library and Museum; and/or • Scholarships for Masonic youth group participants attending college.

You can make a difference with your gift to support one or more of the Masonic Charities. Simply complete and return the reply below or call the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454 to get your FREE Estate Planning kit. Our professional staff can guide you through the estate planning process. To learn more about how to make your gift through your estate plan, GET STARTED NOW!

Central Pennsylvania 717-367-1121, ext. 33437 or 800-599-6454

Western Pennsylvania 412-741-1400, ext. 3011 or 866-872-0664

Eastern Pennsylvania 610-825-6100, ext. 1348

Out-of-State

717-367-1121, ext. 33312 or 800-599-6454

COMPLETE AND MAIL THIS FORM TO:

Office of Gift Planning, One Masonic Dr., Elizabethtown, PA 17022  Please send me your free Estate Planning Kit.  Call me to discuss how I can make my gift through my estate plan.  I have already remembered one of the Masonic Charities in my Will/Trust.

Name(s):__________________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________________ City:____________________________ State:____________ Zip:____________ Telephone:__________________________________________________________ Email 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.

24 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason

A WEEKEND OF MYSTERY

l-r: Mike Allen, Associate Supreme Guardian; Brooke Spence, Past Honored Queen of Bethel 15 and the Mary Etta Wright Grand Bethel Honored Queen; and Barbara Cooper, Supreme Guardian.

On the weekend of Nov. 14-16, Pennsylvania Job’s Daughters joined together at Patton Campus in Elizabethtown for a weekend of mystery. Friday night, the daughters followed clues that sent them scouring the grounds on a hunt for the missing Grand Guardian and Associate Grand Guardian. Saturday morning, the daughters participated in a workshop/ practice for their stated meeting. The girls learned how the Grand Bethel is different

from their local bethels, as well as how PA’s Grand Bethel is different from other states.

After lunch that afternoon, the daughters participated in their annual Hike for H.I.K.E. (Hearing Impaired Kids Endowment Fund) at the Masonic Village, an event planned by Miss Congeniality Romaynse Smith. The H.I.K.E. Fund, Inc., collects funds to award to children who are in need of hearing aids or other assistive listening devices whose parents or guardians are unable to meet this specific need. It was created in 1985 by leaders for Job’s Daughters International. The Fund was developed as a philanthropic project that all members of Job’s Daughters could support.

During the H.I.K.E. walk, the girls stopped at checkpoints where they were challenged to match the right symbol to the state officer at that checkpoint. After they matched the correct symbol, the girls took selfies (photos) with the picture of the state officer and that symbol.

Later that evening, the daughters gathered in the function room for the annual Grand Bethel meeting, where Grand Bethel Honored Queen Brooke Spence presided. The daughters performed excellent ritual work. During her remarks, Brooke revealed yet another mystery:

that the Supreme Guardian and Associate Supreme Guardian had made a surprise visit to Pennsylvania, and that they had been with everyone most of the day! Saturday night ended with snacks and a question and answer session with the Supreme team, Mike Allen and Barbara Cooper, where the daughters could ask any questions they would like about their travels and personal lives. The funfilled weekend ended Sunday morning after the daughters shared a wonderful worship service together.

Top Photo: Miss Congeniality Romaynse Smith and a large group of HIKERS for H.I.K.E.

February 2015

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION 25

DeMolay Honors Grand Master On Dec. 6, Pennsylvania DeMolay was pleased to host an induction class in honor of Bro. and “Dad” Robert J. Bateman, R.W. Grand Master. “Dad” Bateman, a long-time supporter of the DeMolay program, was accompanied by “Dad” Daniel J. Hinds, Superintendent of the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia and Aide to the Grand Master, for the special day that was held at the Masonic Conference Center – Patton Campus in Elizabethtown.

The event started on Friday evening, as DeMolays, advisors and candidates poured in from across the state, arriving at Patton Campus to ready themselves with degree rehearsals for the induction teams and fun activities for the candidates. The induction teams worked well into the night and early on Saturday morning, sharpening their skills to put on a good show.

Following the formal luncheon, the degrees began. With 24 candidates in the class, the room was packed with well-wishers and parents. The new members witnessed some spectacular degree work, with Lorenzo Rodriguez, Deputy State Master Councilor, Northeast Chapter, Philadelphia, conferring the Initiatory Degree. During the DeMolay Degree, Alex Pittaro, Chester Pike Chapter,

Glen Mills, portrayed Jacques DeMolay, and was pitted against Cody Rosenbauer, Lorraine Chapter, Butler, who assumed the role of the Master Inquisitor. The Fourth Section, or obligation of the DeMolay Degree, was conferred by Isaac Holtzer, State Master Councilor, Westmoreland Chapter, Greensburg.

Following the induction ceremonies and presentation of commemorative membership patents to the new members, Bro. Holtzer presented the Grand Master a check for $500, designated for the “Change for the Troops” program. The Grand Master commended the degree teams on their work, which, he said, would rival anything done in the lodges and at Scottish Rite today. He said that all Masons should see how DeMolays perform with such precision and care. He congratulated the class on joining DeMolay and wished them success in their fraternal travels. After the normal pictures and remarks, the formal portion of the day wrapped up, which led to a relaxing evening of board games, swimming, basketball and socializing with old and new friends.

The weekend concluded with a worship service that was planned and presented by State Chaplain Andrew Santilli, Chester Pike Chapter, providing an inspiring message

that all participants could take home to their respective chapters.

Above: R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman, State Master Councilor Isaac Holtzer and State Sweetheart Alicia R. Daniels pose with the elected state officers and the 24 new members who were inducted in the DeMolay Grand Master’s Class.

26 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason

Kittanning Assembly No. 39 REBORN Kittanning Assembly No. 30 is once again a fully official Rainbow Girls assembly!

Four years ago, the only member left was a college student going to school in Florida.

After establishing a new Advisory Board, the goal was set to recruit and build the assembly back up by first starting a pledge group for girls who are younger than Rainbow age. The Little Sunbeam Pledge Group began with a monthly meeting including a brief ritual ceremony, a craft project, a snack and fellowship.

The pledge group grew in size as the girls grew in age. On Nov. 15, 2014, two 11-yearolds were initiated to join the three other girls who had already joined the assembly.

Ashley Loeb, Grand Worthy Advisor, was in western Pennsylvania and served as the Worthy Advisor. Officers from New Castle No. 1, Martha No. 11, Irwin No. 42, Faith No. 150, Ohio Valley No. 157, Beaver Valley No. 187 and Altoona No. 188 drove to Kittanning to perform the Initiation Ceremony.

Bro. Emilio Sforza, D.D.G.M.-27, made the meeting an official visit. Twelve additional Masons in regalia, as well as Bro. Roger Johnson, P.D.D.G.M.-27, witnessed an excellent ritualistic meeting.

The service project for the newly reorganized assembly was to make ornaments and other decorations for the Masonic lodge for Christmas. The girls, with the help of the advisory board, then decorated the tree for the Kittanning Masonic family.

How to Establish a Scholarship – Part 2 To establish a scholarship program within the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation (PMYF) Educational Endowment Fund, an organization or an individual should first examine its goals in providing that scholarship: Whom do you want to benefit?

• Do you want to limit the program to just boys, or girls or orphans?

• Do you want Masons themselves to be eligible?

• Do you want to limit the funds to members or their families?

• Do you want to make the funds available to members of the Masonic-related youth groups?

• Do you want to make the monies available to young people in your home community, or who attended specified school districts?

• What type of student are you looking to benefit?

Is financial need important?

• Should scholastic aptitude be the primary emphasis?

• Do you want to direct how the money should be used, such as for tuition, room and board, textbooks and supplies, or transportation?

Once you have determined your goals and outlined your intentions, it is important to study the financial commitment: • Will you make an initial contribution to the fund, from which all scholarships will be granted?

• Will the principal be available for awards, or only the income generated by that principal?

You will need to examine the long-term funding of the program: • Will you be making annual contributions to the fund, to help it build and benefit more students?

• Will you, or your organization’s membership, support such a program with promotion and gifts? Contributions may come from individuals, lodge charity funds, organizations and other sources.

After developing your plans, it is important to write a proper agreement, or an organizational resolution, to be voted on by the group. It should authorize the initial contribution to create the fund, establish the criteria for awarding of funds and determine the required restrictions, if any. It is suggested that you share your intentions and a copy of the resolution with your District Deputy Grand

Master or another with authority over your group, for his counsel and recommendations.

It is further suggested that you share this resolution with the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation’s Educational Endowment Fund Committee and staff for review, prior to actual passage. Since they will be responsible to administer the funds according to your directions, they can clear up any questions they might have about your intent prior to adoption of the resolution, giving you an opportunity to clarify sections, if necessary.

Once your resolution has been approved, a check, or checks, should be made payable to the “P.M.Y.F. Educational Endowment Fund” and forwarded to the address below. You will receive an annual report of the status of the fund, the amount of the principal and all accumulated interest and a detailing of the amounts awarded.

If you have further questions about the Educational Endowment Fund or the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation, please contact us at pmyf@pagrandlodge.org, or by writing to: PMYF, 1244 Bainbridge Road, Elizabethtown, PA 17022

MASONIC VILL AGES 27

February 2015

Donors Provide Youth with Tools for the Modern Student

For today’s students, access to a computer and the Internet is as essential as paper and a pencil. Teachers often post assignments and grades on websites, and students are expected to conduct research and upload their work online.

Thanks to the generosity of a few donors, who wish to remain anonymous, each youth at the Masonic Children’s Home received his or her own personal laptop to use for school

work and to communicate with friends and family. The donors are also covering the cost of Wi-Fi for the children’s home.

For several years, youth have had access to computers in the Resource Center, where tutors help them with assignments and studying, as well as one computer in each of the five cottages. As schoolwork has become more centered on computer usage, sharing amongst up to eight kids per cottage (or a total of 40 kids on campus) has become an increasing challenge. With a personal laptop, each youth can save homework and school projects in one place and access it at any time. Many of the youth also use email and social media to keep in contact with family and friends.

With the privilege of computer access, comes responsibility. The guardian and the child sign an Internet Contract prior to residency at the Masonic Children’s Home.

Staff have permission to check the history on each computer on a regular basis. No one may access inappropriate materials or sites, and use of social networks is allowed as long as private and confidential information is not shared. Illegal or unethical use of the

Internet or computer results in the loss of computer privileges.

“Ensuring each child has access to a computer and the Internet has become a necessity to make sure they keep up with their peers and the world around them,” Virginia Migrala, director of children’s services, said.

“These laptops will help our kids on a daily basis and prepare them for life after high school and beyond.”

Staff asked children to share why they appreciate receiving a laptop. Responses ranged from help with school work to applying for colleges to no more arguing over who is using the cottage computer. With the right tools, youth at the Masonic Children’s Home will continue to excel at school and reach their fullest potential as they explore the world and their future role in it.

28 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

A Winter Retreat While some Pennsylvania Masons and residents choose to spend the winter months in toastier locales, the many benefits of living at a Masonic Village, among other reasons, lure them back home. When you don’t have to worry about things like rising heat bills, snow and ice removal and traveling to the grocery store, you can actually appreciate the beauty of winter in Pennsylvania!

Included in one monthly service fee for retirement living accommodations are: heating, snow removal, interior and exterior maintenance, convenient access to amenities and much more.

On March 12, 13 and 14, Masonic Villages leadership and R.W. Grand Master Robert Bateman will host reunions throughout Florida for dozens of Masons, their wives and widows. Each event will feature the presentation of Masonic service awards, as well as valuable updates about the fraternity and the Masonic Villages. See page 5 for details on attending one of these reunions.

DALLAS

Jack and Shirley Wolfkeil have experienced a variety of climates as they’ve moved from the Wyoming Valley in Northeastern Pennsylvania to New Jersey to Connecticut to Georgia to Florida, and after 60 years, back to Pennsylvania.

After retirement, they spent 13 winters in Florida. They wanted to move to a continuing care retirement community and found one near Atlanta, Georgia, close to one of their daughters, who later passed away. As they talked with neighbors in this community who faced health problems, they came to a conclusion: proximity to family is very important. When someone had family to help during times of need, all the details were handled quickly.

They decided it was best to come back to Pennsylvania. Their son lives here, Shirley has several cousins in the state and Jack’s sister

resides in their childhood home in Wyoming Valley. Their other daughter resides a few hours away in Connecticut. Jack’s father was a Shriner, and they were acquainted with the Masonic Village at Dallas. Friends in the area also highly recommended it, so they made the move to a villa in 2012.

“It was a smart move,” Jack said. “The longer we’re here, the more we know we made the best decision. We selected a villa across from the lake, and we enjoy watching golfers, walkers, ducks and wonderful fall foliage. The people we met in the community and neighbors at the Village created new and interesting friendships. We’re enjoying access to the Irem Clubhouse for meals, too.”

They’ve each faced several surgeries and have found the health care in the area to be excellent. They enjoy being active, and Shirley started a Stretching for Good Health class which meets on campus every Monday.

Participants meet for breakfast and other social events, too.

“We had to think about ourselves getting older,” Shirley said. “My family was all here.

Winters are certainly harsher, but we were long-time skiers, so we enjoy the snow. We persevered through last year’s. Maintenance here was great. Staff are very responsive to conditions and sensitive to needs we might have.”

ELIZABETHTOWN

For most people who choose to move from a northern state to Florida, including Louis and Linda Johnson, the reasoning is the same: winter is winter in Pennsylvania. Bro. Louis, Norristown Lodge No. 620 and Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, moved to Florida with his wife after retirement.

After his wife passed away, he kept himself busy with activities including square dancing.

Linda, an Indiana native who had also retired to Florida, attended the same square dances after her husband passed away. Bro. Louis and Linda met and were married.

Bro. Johnson is a 62-year Mason and had become familiar with the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown when his mother resided there.

MASONIC VILL AGES 29

February 2015

He and Linda, who had no familiarity with the Masonic Villages, attended several of the Masonic reunions in Tampa. They appreciated hearing updates about all five Masonic Villages locations and their services.

For a man who has spent a great deal of time in the water though his service in the U.S. Navy and as an avid scuba diver; in the air as a flight instructor and commercial pilot; and on land hiking and backpacking, Bro. Louis wasn’t quite ready to settle down in one place.

“We came to Masonic Village for visits, but didn’t quite think we were ready,” Linda said. “Then the doors just opened when Kelly [Eakin, director of sales and marketing] called to tell us she had an opening. We sold our home in Florida in three months and moved in October 2011.”

“We enjoy the fact that you’re living with family,” Bro. Louis said. “Your neighbors are family. They’re there to help you in any way they can, and we help them. I like having a direct association with Masonic brothers, too. It’s also great to have the feeling that if you have a problem with anything, Masonic Village is there to help.”

The Johnsons like to attend concerts and dances, and Bro. Louis recently started a Pilot Club for those who have experience flying.

They also appreciate the transportation on and off campus, bi-monthly housekeeping and the number of dining choices. If the weather turns frightful, it has little effect on their routines.

“It’s a marvelous place. We can do most everything,” Bro. Louis said. “All facilities – bank, store and restaurants – are right in the Buchanan Clubhouse. We don’t have to go outside.”

They encourage their friends from Florida to visit Masonic Village and have even convinced several to move here. Bro. Louis has been known to play piano while visitors are touring the campus, demonstrating the warmth and friendliness of Masonic Village.

LAFAYETTE HILL

Philadelphia native Gloria Rothblat always loved the shore. As soon as she had the chance, she moved to Outer Banks in North Carolina, and remained there for 22 years. As she grew older, she desired to be closer to her children and grandchildren. When she considered where to move, she looked no further than the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, which also happened to be the employer of her daughter, Debby Rothblat, who works as a cook.

“I like the friendliness,” she said. “Everyone here is so nice. From the day I moved in, I never felt like a stranger. They keep us entertained and go out of their way to do things for us.

I volunteer in the gift shop and serve on the resident council. You can keep as busy as you want to be.”

Since moving north over a year ago, Gloria experienced one of Philadelphia’s worst winters. In her new home at Masonic Village, though, it was safe and hassle-free.

“I appreciated the fact that I didn’t have to go out if I didn’t want to,” she said. “And if I wanted to, everything was clear including the walkways. They’re very much oriented to keeping people here as free and easy as they can. They make life so much easier, and everybody is so nice and helpful.”

As for Gloria’s daughter, Debby, she’s happy to have her mother nearby and to know she’s safe and enjoying life. In fact, Debby already has her future apartment at Masonic Village selected.

SEWICKLEY

Claudia Brenneisen and her husband, Bill, resided in western Pennsylvania and Ohio throughout their lives before retiring to Florida.

Bill loved golf, and The Villages, an active adult retirement community, featured dozens of courses. Claudia even learned how to play.

Bill passed away in 2009. While Claudia continued to enjoy her friends in Florida, she

missed her children and grandchildren in the Pittsburgh area and decided to return to Pennsylvania.

After attending an open house at Masonic Village at Sewickley in 2010 to try and convince her mother to move there, Claudia herself was very impressed with the community. Her mother didn’t want to live in a larger community, so Claudia and her siblings ended up moving her several times as she faced increasing health problems. While it was a difficult situation for Claudia, it taught her a valuable lesson: She didn’t want to do the same to her children.

“I didn’t want to buy another house knowing in 10 years, I’d want a Lifecare option,” she said. “I had a wonderful impression of Masonic Village. Every time I came back, it got better. I couldn’t think of anything bad. You’re paying for security and wonderful conveniences.”

She moved into her spacious apartment at Masonic Village in March 2014. As she is experiencing her first Pennsylvania winter in several years, she is embracing the good that comes from living at Masonic Village.

“The facilities are wonderful, and they offer everything,” she said. “The people couldn’t be nicer. I’ve instantly been enfolded by lovely neighbors who’ve become friends. My dog loves it here. We get out and take walks, and the grounds are gorgeous. I like to cook, but the time may come when I don’t want to cook, and then I can take the meal plan.

“I never loved the hot summers in Florida.

I like cold weather. Masonic Village has the convenience of shuttles to go to the doctor’s office if I need to. All the bad things with the weather are ameliorated because of the convenience. Weather becomes incidental.”

Her dog, Murphy, also doesn’t mind the cold weather, although when it rains or snows, he makes his trips outside faster than ever.

For Claudia, Masonic Village feels just right no matter what Mother Nature has in store.

Visit www.masonicvillages.org for detailed information about all locations and upcoming events.

30 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

Helping People is His Craft Meet the Newest Member of the Masonic Villages’ Board of Directors, Dr. and Bro. David Reiner After a decade of serving as District Deputy Grand Master for District 46, Dr. and Bro. David Reiner hung up his purple collar on Dec. 27, 2014. Instead of fielding procedural and Masonic law questions, he will put his health care experience to use as the newest member of the Masonic Villages’ board of directors.

Appointed to the post by R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman, Bro. Reiner looks forward to learning more about a different aspect of Freemasonry he hasn’t yet been as involved with: the charitable, caregiving side.

Understanding the ins and outs of the health care environment, he’s superbly qualified to

make sound decisions to benefit Masonic Village residents.

Growing up, many influential men in Bro. Reiner’s life were Masons, including his father, grandfather, two uncles and many cousins. He observed their character, and as soon as he became eligible (the minimum age at the time was 21), he joined their ranks as a member of Herndon Lodge No. 702.

Growing up in a very small town, Bro. Reiner spent his youth working on area farms.

It was hard labor, and while he admired the farmers’ work ethic, he saw in contrast the comfortable, air-conditioned setting of his Uncle Elwood’s chiropractic office. But most importantly, he knew that whenever he had an ache, pain or illness, he could visit Uncle Elwood, who would fix him right up. “I didn’t get sick as a kid,” he recalls.

Upon closer examination, Bro. Reiner developed a great respect for his uncle’s vocation and his ability to provide care for his neighbors in need. He decided that he, too, wanted to help people.

After earning his bachelor’s degree in biology and pre-medicine from Millersville University in Lancaster, Pa., Bro. Reiner went on to study at Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa. For a young country boy, the transition to city life was quite the eye opener.

He eventually settled down in Milton, a less than 40-minute drive from his hometown, opened his own chiropractic office in Watsontown and joined Milton Lodge No. 256. He and his wife, Jessica, have a 10-yearold daughter, Morgan, who enjoys playing soccer. When he’s not cheering her on from the sidelines, he’s officiating in the middle of

a high school football field or teeing off with some friends at a local green.

Content to be back in a smaller town, Bro. Reiner is active in his community as a member of the Rotary Club and St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Red Cross, Pa., and as Chapter Secretary of the Sun Chapter of Football Officials.

Now, he will be spending considerable time at our various Masonic Villages, an experience he looks forward to. “I’ve experienced other facilities with my family members, and there is no comparison between what I’ve seen and what we have to offer,” Bro. Reiner said. “A house is a structure; a home is where the heart is. Care comes from people, not some building sitting on land. That’s the difference I see because of our Mission of Love.”

Bro. Reiner describes himself as driven, hard-working and goal-oriented, yet simple.

He feels that Pennsylvania Freemasonry has been moving in the right direction over the years by making positive changes such as lowering the age requirement, allowing brethren to invite worthy men to join and having open presentations. “It’s important to increase our exposure to the public about the good we do to benefit society, as well as our own members,” he said. “Freemasonry isn’t a secret; we have nothing to hide.”

As for that purple collar – well, it won’t truly have time to gather dust, as Bro. Reiner remains active in his lodges, as well as numerous other Masonic-affiliated bodies.

And he’ll also continue to care for people, both in his own practice and by sharing his time and expertise to benefit our Masonic Villages.

MASONIC VILL AGES 31

February 2015

Qty. Capital Need Masonic Village at Elizabethtown 2 Temporal Thermometers 45 Wheelchair Cushions - Specialty 5 Computer Tablets 5 Electric Lift Recliner 1 Digital Keyboard Accessories 10 Specialty Mattresses 11 Stereo Systems 23 Wheelchairs - Specialty 15 Wheelchairs - Specialty w/customized 5 Bariatric Mattresses 1 Eva Pneumatic Platform Walker 4 Sleeper Chairs 2 Wheelchairs - Tilt & Space 5 Wheelchairs - Broda 2 Bariatric Ceiling Lift 1 Portable Sound System 2 Beds - Pivot 1 MVTV Software & Hardware 2 Tree - 12 ft. Black Olive Tree 2 Lifts - Overhead 1 NuStep Machine 2 NPWT Machines (wound care) Children’s Home Needs 28 Bedroom Makeovers

Cost Per Item

1 10

$300 $1,000 $700

Printers College Books Play Equipment - Outdoors Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill 1 Spirit of Philadelphia Lunch Cruise Outing District of Columbia Museums w/Lunch and Transportation Harvest Ball Event Drama Lessons/Activities for Residents Masonic Village at Sewickley 3 Yamaha Digital Pianos 1 Hand Rail Tilt and Roll Scale 1 ARJO Sit to Stand Lift 1 4 Channel E Stimulation (electric) 1 ARJO Maxi Lift Masonic Village at Dallas 1 Portable Fire Ring 1 Bocce Ball Equipment 1 Wii Game Set 1 Golf Fund 2 Handicap Accessible Picnic Tables Masonic Village at Warminster 10 Wood Working Kits 2 Aromatherapy Kits 1 Fish Aquarium 1 Pergola with Awning

$425 $500 $700 $900 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,500 $1,600 $1,800 $2,000 $2,000 $2,100 $2,500 $2,502 $3,700 $4,000 $4,500 $4,667 $5,600 $6,000 $167

$1,950 $2,400 $2,500 $3,000 $1,500 $1,550 $4,100 $4,400 $7,400 $190 $300 $300 $500 $900 $100 $220 $300 $6,000

MASONIC VILLAGES’

2015

WISH LIST ITEMS OFFICE OF GIFT PLANNING

800-599-6454

Thank you to the following individuals who have provided for the following items since the last issue: Bleiler Caring Cottage: Elaine Bleiler - Creations by Open Hands: Activities and Vacations Masonic Village Piece Makers Quilt Club: Activities and Vacations Masonic Children’s Home: Bro. David R. Dopp, Sr.: Various Items Toni Drabant: Camps and Trips General James Chambers Lodge No. 801: Various Items Bro. Richard and Donna Kellenberger: Various Items Bro. Ronald and Judy A. McKnight: Various Items Bro. H. Bruce and Nancy J. Opitz: Various Items Bro. Gary T. Powell: Bedroom Makeover Region 14 Past and Present Officers Association, O.E.S.: Trips and Activities Bro. Raymond and Mary Tisot: Various Items Masonic Village at Dallas: Anonymous: Horseshoe Set Masonic Village at Elizabethtown: Bro. Henry Clay: Channel 95 Bro. Jeffrey and Nancy Hoyt: Specialty Wheelchairs Bro. Michael and Maria McKee: Activities Department and Equipment and Materials for Rooster’s Woodshop Masonic Village at Sewickley: Helen Treloar: Development of Clinic Space in Retirement Living, Various Items Masonic Village at Warminster: Delaware County Home, O.E.S.: Movie Collection DVDs and Rocking Chairs There is an all-inclusive wish list posted on the Masonic Charities website at www.MasonicCharitiesPA.org, or feel free to contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454.

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

Guaranteed Lifetime Income What Is It?

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

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

Who Has Participated?

 Hundreds of Masonic and non-Masonic donors

Why?

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

What Are The Minimums?

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

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

COMPLETE AND MAIL THIS FORM TO:

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

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

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

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