Freemason - February 2017

THE PENNSYLVANIA

VOL. LXIV, NO. 1

Celebrating the 300th Anniversary of Our Mother Grand Lodge with a special focus on

Food, Family & Fraternity

FEBRUARY 2017

CONTRIBUTE THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON® VOL. LXIV, FEBRUARY 2017 NO. 1

©2017 The R.W. Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Pennsylvania EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman Raymond T. Dietz, R.W.G.M. S. Eugene Herritt, R.W.D.G.M. Thomas Gamon, IV, R.W.S.G.W. Jeffrey M. Wonderling, R.W.J.G.W. Jeffrey W. Coy, R.W.G.T. Mark A. Haines, R.W.G.S.

The Pennsylvania Freemason magazine staff is looking for photographers and writers to contribute their talents!

Please email a link to samples of your work to pafreemason@masonicvillages.org to be considered as a contributor for the publication. Contributors will receive a photo credit or byline. The Pennsylvania Freemason reserves the right to use submissions elsewhere, such as on the Grand Lodge website, Facebook page, as a blog, etc.

Celebrating our Masonic Heritage

Cheers to our mates across the pond for a smashing 300 years of Masonic excellence! In celebration of our Mother Grand Lodge’s tricentennial, we’re dedicating this issue to the many ways food and family enhance our Masonic experiences.

Paul J. Roup, P.D.D.G.M.-54 EDITORIAL STAFF Tina L. Raybold - Production Coordinator Rich Johnson - Graphic Designer Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation Staff Masonic Library & Museum of Pennsylvania Staff (Publication No. USPS 426-140) February 2017 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.

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.

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Freemasonry Today

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.

Message from the Grand Master • Leading by Example • United Grand Lodge of England’s Tricentennial • Pennsylvania Masonry’s Origins • December Quarterly Communication Updates • Serving Up a Labor of Love • Feeding the Fraternity • Our Brothers’ Keepers

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP

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(Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United States Code) February 2017, 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: Raymond T. Dietz. 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.

Raymond T. Dietz, 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 1-800-599-6454 or giving@masonicvillages.org.

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

Masonic Education

Cannon Fire in Open Lodge • Masonic Book Review • Where Are They Now? • Masonic

Book Review • Gift Shop Debuts New Website • Craft Lodge Visits in the United Kingdom

24 Philanthropy

Help for Our Heroes • Pennsylvania Masons’ Impact on Raising a Reader • DeMolay Honor Special WWII Veterans • Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation Supports Our Youth • Masonic Villages Campus Updates • In the Blink of an Eye • Masonic Villages’ 2017 Wish List

Subscribe to the online edition! pamasons.org

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

Save a Tree

Brethren, As this year marks the tricentennial of our Mother Grand Lodge, the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), we have much to celebrate! Our values and traditions were molded by our English forefathers and have since spread around the world. I encourage our Lodges and Districts to commemorate this exciting milestone in their own creative, meaningful ways throughout 2017. I hope this issue offers some suggestions for combining food, family and fraternity to create a fun-filled event!

In this issue, we offer a brief overview of how Freemasonry formed in our Mother Grand Lodge, and how its influence developed into our own Grand Lodge here in Pennsylvania. For those of you who would like to learn more about UGLE, I encourage you to visit ugle.org.uk. Many interesting and exciting Masonic events are being held throughout the United Kingdom this year. While some events are restricted, many are open to Brethren and the community, so if you are fortunate enough to “cross the pond,” I encourage you to join our English Brethren and learn more about our Masonic heritage. For some first-hand advice, check out the article on pp. 22-23 by Brother Bryan Hill.

At our One Day Masonic Journey, held in 13 locations across Pennsylvania, we welcomed nearly 1,000 new Masons to our Fraternity.

Brethren, keep spreading the word about your beloved Fraternity and inviting worthy men to join our ranks. I express my personal appreciation to those Brethren Leading by Example on pp. 4-8. Mark your calendars for this year’s One Day Class on Saturday, Sept. 23.

A few months ago, we kicked off our marketing efforts for “One” by hosting a bridal show that brought 175 young men and women into our Masonic Temple, all of whom left knowing a little more about what we, as Pennsylvania Masons, do. Opening up our beautiful building not only benefits our community by offering a unique venue for hosting banquets and special events, but also promotes our Fraternity.

Serving as your Grand Master continues to be one of the greatest honors of my life. The December Quarterly

Sincerely and fraternally, Raymond T. Dietz, R.W. Grand Master

Communication provided me an opportunity to recognize many of our Brethren for their dedication to our Craft. Some of the highlights are covered on pp. 12-13.

I am proud to announce that what R.W. Past Grand Master Stephen Gardner started in January 2008 as a way for Pennsylvania Freemasons to show their support for the U.S. military by contributing their pocket change during monthly membership meetings has to date totaled over $1 million! Please, continue to thank our military and their families for all they do and sacrifice to preserve our freedoms by continuing your support of our Help for Our Heroes program.

It gives me deep satisfaction to hear the many meaningful ways our Lodge Almoner’s Funds are aiding our Brethren and their families in need during difficult, often desperate, times. If you or someone you know could use a helping hand, please do not let pride get in the way. Most of us need assistance at some point in our lives; there is no shame in seeking help from our Brethren when we need it.

On p. 25, you can see the projected success of our support for the Raising a Reader program within kindergarten classrooms throughout the Commonwealth. The school year is only half-way through, however, and we still have much support to raise in order to ensure this program meets these milestones. Investment in our youth – our future – is priceless.

Throughout this issue, you will also see how our Masonic Youth learn to give back for the investment we have made in their futures.

The invaluable lessons learned through involvement in DeMolay, Job’s Daughters and Rainbow Girls, as well as programming offered through the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation, undoubtedly help good kids develop into caring, responsible and successful adults. On pp. 16-17, you can read a heart-warming, life-saving story of two Brothers whose bond developed when one was quite young.

Sometimes you never discover what a difference your involvement may have made in a young person’s life; in others, you’re shown just how much your influence mattered.

Our Masonic Villages continue to grow and serve people of all ages, from youth in our children’s home, to those in their prime whose lives take an unexpected turn, to seniors who deserve the highest quality care and respect.

I hope as you turn these pages, your pride in Pennsylvania Masonry grows, just as mine has every day I have served as your Grand Master.

FREEMASONRY TODAY

LEADING BY EXAMPLE Inviting new candidates to join Pennsylvania Freemasonry ensures the future of our great fraternity. We are pleased to spotlight these Brethren who are first-line signers on three or more petitions. This recognition is in addition to the incentives and ties Brethren can earn as an additional “thank you� for their dedication to our Craft. To be featured in the next issue, Brethren must be first-line signers on four or more petitions.

Larry A. Shaffer Jr. Lodge No. 363 10 petitions

Kevin G. DuMont Lodge No. 716 8 petitions

David L. Merithew Lodge No. 468 8 petitions

Thomas Gamon IV Lodge No. 595 7 petitions

Roxie D. Costanza Jr. David M. Howells Jr. Lodge No. 259 Lodge No. 673 7 petitions 7 petitions

Alvin E. Just Lodge No. 538 7 petitions

Robert W. Amend Lodge No. 544 6 petitions

Rodney Anderson Lodge No. 3 6 petitions

Shane F. Connor Lodge No. 540 6 petitions

Raymond T. Dietz Lodge No. 657 6 petitions

John P. Hayden Lodge No. 347 6 petitions

Daniel J. Hinds Lodge No. 115 6 petitions

Craig V. Madonna Lodge No. 587 6 petitions

Michael C. Sachs Lodge No. 628 6 petitions

Heath A. Brewer Lodge No. 343 5 petitions

Kenneth L. Brier Lodge No. 529 5 petitions

Larry A. Derr Lodge No. 551 5 petitions

Eugene H. Duncan Jr. Hal S. Gindrow Lodge No. 43 Lodge No. 529 5 petitions 5 petitions

Timothy C. Honey Lodge No. 62 5 petitions

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Incentives

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Andrew D. Kurtz Lodge No. 539 5 petitions

Robert C. Moore Lodge No. 291 5 petitions

Richard W. Storms Lodge No. 553 5 petitions

Richard M. Sullivan Lodge No. 547 5 petitions

Richard A. Valentine Lodge No. 231 5 petitions

James B. Henkelman Lodge No. 345 5 petitions

Douglas E. Kauffman Lodge No. 220 5 petitions

John F. McCombs Lodge No. 375 5 petitions

Jonathan L. McNelis Lodge No. 391 5 petitions

James E. Monson Lodge No. 363 5 petitions

Bruce A. Robinson Lodge No. 331 5 petitions

Daniel R. Scheetz Lodge No. 67 5 petitions

Zane J. Taney Lodge No. 354 5 petitions

John A. Titterington Lodge No. 368 5 petitions

Albert W. Tripp Lodge No. 138 5 petitions

Jeffrey M. Wonderling Lodge No. 346 5 petitions

Timothy W. Barnhart Lodge No. 362 4 petitions

Troy A. Burton Lodge No. 799 4 petitions

Jan M. Cechak Lodge No. 341 4 petitions

Michael F. Connor Lodge No. 553 4 petitions

Harold E. Conrad Jr. Lodge No. 281 4 petitions

Oliver W. Dambach Lodge No. 229 4 petitions

David E. Dodson Sr. Lodge No. 539 4 petitions

Joseph T. Fisher Lodge No. 52 4 petitions

Thomas Gamon V Lodge No. 595 4 petitions

Robert M. Hillard Lodge No. 546 4 petitions

Rudolph J. Hofbauer Lodge No. 780 4 petitions

Paul Nicholas Hudak Lodge No. 362 4 petitions

Youssef M. Kabbani Lodge No. 591 4 petitions

Joseph M. Jensen Lodge No. 482 4 petitions

James C. Lewis Sr. Lodge No. 526 4 petitions

Francis J. Lorine III Lodge No. 340 4 petitions

Jeramie D. McLaughlin Robert J. Neff Lodge No. 551 Lodge No. 621 4 petitions 4 petitions

February 2017

Incentives

Chad E. Otis Lodge No. 586 4 petitions

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Robert T. Pawlowski Lodge No. 59 4 petitions

Bernard R. Ralston Lodge No. 480 4 petitions

George S. Reppert Lodge No. 227 4 petitions

Jeffrey A. Roe Lodge No. 377 4 petitions

Antonio M. Salonga Lodge No. 587 4 petitions

Joseph W. Schanck Lodge No. 684 4 petitions

Dennis F. Shaffer Lodge No. 254 4 petitions

Bradford J. Smith Lodge No. 578 4 petitions

Charles J. Sule Lodge No. 440 4 petitions

William Paul Weber Lodge No. 561 4 petitions

Ronald A. Aungst, Sr. Lodge No. 232 3 petitions

Lynn B. Baker Jr. Lodge No. 619 3 petitions

Timothy W. Barnhart Lodge No. 362 3 petitions

Jerome F. Bartley Lodge No. 459 3 petitions

William B. Bittinger Lodge No. 630 3 petitions

Walter J. Brennan Lodge No. 506 3 petitions

David J. Brett Lodge No. 600 3 petitions

Christian T. Brojakowski Lodge No. 531 3 petitions

Arthur Lee Brunst Lodge No. 521 3 petitions

Dennis W. Butler Lodge No. 363 3 petitions

Richard V. Butto Lodge No. 712 3 petitions

David M. Callahan Lodge No. 459 3 petitions

Donald E. Carter Jr. Lodge No. 531 3 petitions

Peter C. Carter Lodge No. 806 3 petitions

James B. Connors Lodge No. 499 3 petitions

Kenneth G. Corcoran Lodge No. 657 3 petitions

Dennis E. Cottrell Jr. Lodge No. 649 3 petitions

Jeffrey W. Coy Lodge No. 315 3 petitions

Brian L. DeSanto Lodge No. 335 3 petitions

George Dierolf Lodge No. 741 3 petitions

Eric W. Ditty Lodge No. 495 3 petitions

Patrick A. Driscoll Lodge No. 538 3 petitions

James T. Edwards Lodge No. 278 3 petitions

Clarence L. Engler Lodge No. 296 3 petitions

Mitchell A. Fabry Lodge No. 521 3 petitions

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Incentives

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Robert E. Flaharty Jr. Lodge No. 503 3 petitions

John C. Fox III Lodge No. 346 3 petitions

David Gallagher Lodge No. 665 3 petitions

Napoleon Garcia Lodge No. 539 3 petitions

Robert S. Green Sr. Lodge No. 292 3 petitions

Jeff P. Greim Lodge No. 406 3 petitions

Steven J. Hale Lodge No. 389 3 petitions

Mark A. Haines Lodge No. 549 3 petitions

Shawn S. Hentz Lodge No. 666 3 petitions

S. Eugene Herritt Lodge No. 315 3 petitions

Robert D. Hukill Lodge No. 547 3 petitions

Paul E. Humbert Jr. Lodge No. 651 3 petitions

Norman D. James Lodge No. 763 3 petitions

Mark A. Jones Lodge No. 265 3 petitions

Paul R. Kantner Sr. Lodge No. 435 3 petitions

Kieran P. Kelly Lodge No. 711 3 petitions

William L. Kingsbury Lodge No. 295 3 petitions

Eugene D. Kurtz Lodge No. 539 3 petitions

Michael G. Lehto Jr. Lodge No. 70 3 petitions

Mark E. Lewis Lodge No. 115 3 petitions

James M. Madden Lodge No. 45 3 petitions

Arthur D. Margetic Jr. John D. McKibben Lodge No. 259 Lodge No. 260 3 petitions 3 petitions

Robert D. Meier Lodge No. 711 3 petitions

John K. Moon Lodge No. 575 3 petitions

Vincent G. Monardo Lodge No. 45 3 petitions

Paul M. Mulcahy Jr. Lodge No. 61 3 petitions

John P. Nagele Lodge No. 59 3 petitions

Robert D. Nichol Lodge No. 657 3 petitions

James A. O’Connor Lodge No. 700 3 petitions

William J. Palumbo Lodge No. 323 3 petitions

Stanley R. Pannella Lodge No. 67 3 petitions

Michael W. Rabinowitch Harry W. Ritz Lodge No. 19 Lodge No. 3 3 petitions 3 petitions

Francis A. Norbeck Lodge No. 353 3 petitions

February 2017

Incentives

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FREEMASONRY TODAY

John B. Rowlands Lodge No. 291 3 petitions

Michael C. Sachs Lodge No. 628 3 petitions

Jordan W. Settle Lodge No. 281 3 petitions

Ted E. Shumaker Lodge No. 464 3 petitions

Gerald F. Stevens Sr. Lodge No. 297 3 petitions

Ronald C. Troy Lodge No. 231 3 petitions

Boyce E. Warner Lodge No. 364 3 petitions

Granguid I. Watts Lodge No. 256 3 petitions

Robert Dean Weaver Lodge No. 143 3 petitions

Clayton E. Webber Jr. Lodge No. 365 3 petitions

Daniel J. Welch Lodge No. 45 3 petitions

James Arch West Lodge No. 45 3 petitions

Bradley L. Wolfe Lodge No. 354 3 petitions

Dale R. Woomer Lodge No. 282 3 petitions

Ronald E. Wright Lodge No. 358 3 petitions

Dean C. Zug Lodge No. 355 3 petitions

Adam C. Zwolinski Lodge No. 61 3 petitions

Thousands of Reasons

to Invite Good Men to Be Masons!

Member Incentive Program www.pamasons.org/incentives

And a Special Gift For You

Invite a worthy man to become a Mason, and not only will you offer him the gift of membership, but you will be rewarded for your efforts, as well! After your candidate receives his First Degree, you, as the first-line signer, will be credited with 60 points through the Pennsylvania Masons’ Incentive Program. You can choose to do one of three things: 1. Accrue your points to receive a specific gift, 2. Immediately receive merchandise displayed on the incentive program website or 3. Donate your points to the Masonic Children’s Home, where the points will be used to select gifts for the youth who reside there!

Donating your points is easy. Once you’ve logged into the incentive website, scroll down and click the blue “Donate My Points” button and follow the step-by-step instructions. You may donate some or all of your points.

In addition, a member will receive a new Masonic tie for each of the first four petitions on which he is a first-line signer once the candidate receives his Third Degree!

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Incentives

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Pennsylvania Freemason

INTRODUCING LIMITED EDITION

United Grand Lodge of England Commemorative Items Celebrating the 300th Anniversary of our Mother Lodge THIS IS A PRE-ORDER SALE! Items expected for delivery in June 2017.

Performance Golf Shirt in Carolina Blue, 100% Polyester, with Embroidered Logo - $49.99

all sizes (Small, Medium, Large, XL, 2X, 3X)

Navy Blue Ball Cap, 100% Cotton, with Embroidered Logo - $20.00 Adjustable Band, One Size Fits All

Celebrating Our Heritage Medallion in Box - $75.00 3” round medallion, antique gold design on brass

Limited Edition Medallion Celebrating Our Heritage Medallion Encased in Lucite - $295.00

The 3” round medallion described above is encased in clear poly resin lucite: 5” wide x 5.19”: tall x 1” thick To pre-order, please send in order form below, with your credit card number and expiration date to:

The Masonic Library & Museum Shop Grand Lodge of PA

LIMITED EDITION ITEMS PRE-ORDER FORM

Item Quantity Price Subtotal 1 North Broad St • Philadelphia, PA 19107  Limited Edition Medallion Q ty ___________ $75.00 $________________ *There will be additional charge for shipping, handling and tax.  Medallion in Lucite Qty ___________ $295.00 $________________ Or, call the Gift Shop at 215-988-1973  Golf Shirt Qty ___________ $49.99 $________________ for more options.

Indicate # in each size S___ M___ L___ XL___ 2X___ 3X ___  Ball Cap Qty ___________ $20.00 $________________ TOTAL (not including shipping, handling and tax) $______________ (Call for final cost if you want to know before ordering.)

Name(s)________________________________________________________________ Address__________________________________________________________ City_______________________________________State___________ Zip_______________ Telephone: ( )_______________________________________________________ Email:_________________________________________________________________________ February 2017

Credit Card

 VISA__  Mastercard  American Express Card#_______________________________________ Exp. Date ____/____ Security Code (3-digit)_______________ Signature_____________________________________________

Gift Shop

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FREEMASONRY TODAY

Above: Part of the Freemasons’ Hall exhibition, featuring the gilt throne, dating from 1790, made for George, Prince of Wales, 1762-1830 (later George IV), when he became Grand Master. Note: It was George IV who established the policy that the King retires from active participation in Freemasonry upon his accession to the throne. Only King George VI ever actively participated in Grand Lodge meetings after his coronation. In the bottom right corner is the frontispiece of the 1723 Constitutions of the Free-Masons by James Anderson.

UNITED GRAND LODGE OF ENGLAND’S TRICENTENNIAL

by Dr. Glenys Waldman, Librarian, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania On St. John the Baptist’s Day, June 24, 1717, four London Lodges met at the Goose and Gridiron Tavern as a Grand Lodge and elected a Grand Master to preside over them. Thus was born modern Freemasonry as we know it.

Rev. James Anderson was asked to examine older documents produced by stonemasons, called the “Old Charges.” With them as his foundation, Rev. Anderson developed the Constitutions of the Free-Masons in 1723, which formed the basis for organized Freemasonry throughout the world.

However, fierce rivalries arose such that there were two grand lodges, but after a reconciliation in 1813, they signed “Articles of Union” and formed the United Grand Lodge of England.

The United Grand Lodge of England is celebrating the 300 th birthday of organized Freemasonry in grand style, with more than 100 events scheduled ranging from cathedral services, race meetings, classic car rallies, family fun weekends and youth activities to dinners and balls.

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Online Edition

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New gallery space in Freemasons’ Hall, in London, is filled with a sumptuous exhibition, “Three Centuries of English Freemasonry,” which traces the history of “… Freemasonry from its origins in the early days of industrialization, urbanization and empire to the significant social institution it had become by the 19th century, and explores how it fits into today’s world.” (Freemasonry Today No. 35, Autumn 2016, p.

9). Among the treasurers on display are items belonging to Sir Winston Churchill and King Edward VIII. In the Winter 2016 issue of Freemasonry Today, which also lists many of special celebratory events planned in England, Deputy Grand Master Jonathan Pence relates that in many ways, the founders of the Grand Lodge of England were experiencing turbulent times, just as we are today.

These included a new ruling dynasty following the ascent of King George I in 1714, a sizable rebellion from supporters of the old dynasty defeated in 1715, and the South Sea Bubble scandal. He states, ... “the principles of the Craft have Pennsylvania Freemason

R.W. Grand Master Raymond Dietz’s limited edition medallion featuring the Tricentennial of the Grand Lodge of England. To purchase, see p. 9.

The Coat of Arms of the United Grand Lodge of England

withstood the test of time and are as relevant today as they were then. We may restate them in more modern language as integrity, honesty, fairness, kindness and tolerance, but their essence is unchanged and we should all be justly proud of them and, needless to say, act in accordance with them.”

The 200,000 members in 6,800 Lodges within Great Britain and all around the world are united with their Brethren

in these values, which have enabled the Fraternity to endure and flourish for 300 years and will continue to guide Masonry into its fourth century.

The author wishes to thank Ms. Diane Clements, Director of the Library and Museum of Freemasonry, Freemasons’ Hall, London, for granting permission to quote from, among other publications, their beautiful exhibition guide, “Three Centuries of English Freemasonry.”

PENNSYLVANIA MASONRY’S ORIGINS Within 30 years of the formation of the Grand Lodge of England, the fraternity had spread throughout Europe and the American colonies. Freemasonry became very popular in colonial America. While it wasn’t yet officially recognized, St. John’s Lodge in Philadelphia is known to have been in operation as early as 1727, based on the date of its constitution. However, the first recorded account of Freemasonry in America is the Dec. 8, 1730 issue of the Pennsylvania Gazette, in which the editor, Benjamin Franklin (not yet a Mason), wrote: “As there are several lodges of Free-Masons erected in this province ...”

That year, the Duke of Norfolk deputized Colonel Daniel Coxe of New Jersey, a member of the Lodge at the Devil Tavern within Temple Bar, London, to be “the Provincial Grand Master of the Provinces of New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania” from June 24, 1730 to June 24, 1732. As such, Brother Coxe February 2017

was authorized to appoint officers.

Meanwhile, evidence indicates that the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania was meeting in Philadelphia as early as June 24, 1731, with William Allen, a prominent merchant and attorney, as Grand Master. How that body was established is uncertain; however, upon the completion of Coxe’s deputation, Pennsylvania Masons were empowered to elect their own Provincial Grand Master. Therefore, on St. John the Baptist’s Day, June 24, 1732, Brother Allen was elected (or re-elected) to the post. This made Pennsylvania the third Grand Lodge in the world, preceded only by the Grand Lodge of England (1717) and the Grand Lodge of Ireland (1725).

Reference: The Master Builders, Volume I: 1731-1873, by Wayne A. Huss.

Online Edition

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FREEMASONRY TODAY

DECEMBER QUARTERLY COMMUNICATION UPDATES

by Mark A. Haines, R.W. Grand Secretary

R.W. Grand Master Raymond T. Dietz presented the following awards: THE PENNSYLVANIA FRANKLIN MEDAL The Pennsylvania Franklin Medal was created in 1979 to honor distinguished Master Masons for their outstanding service to the Craft in general and Pennsylvania in particular.

It has been awarded sparingly since then, maintaining very high standards for its presentation, and including among its recipients some of the most renowned Freemasons of our time.

It is worn with Masonic regalia on formal occasions.

Congratulations to: William L. Kingsbury, P.D.D.G.M., Melita Lodge No. 295, Philadelphia

William L. Kingsbury, P.D.D.G.M., Melita Lodge No. 295, Philadelphia, receives The Pennsylvania Franklin Medal from R.W. Grand Master Raymond T. Dietz

On Dec. 7, 2016, 206 members, representing 124 Lodges, attended the Quarterly Communication at the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia.

Amendments to the “Ahiman Rezon” were approved for an increase in Lodge dues of $1.

Grand Master Dietz was pleased to accept contributions totaling $73,241.27 for the various Masonic Charities, Grand Lodge and Help for Our Heroes.

Philadelphia Potter Lodge No. 72 pledged $250,000 for the preservation of the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia.

Four Lodge mergers were approved, effective Dec. 27, 2016: • Philadelphia-Potter Lodge No. 72 into Shekinah-Fernwood Lodge No. 246, to be known as Shekinah-Fernwood Lodge No. 246.

• Canawacta Lodge No. 360 into Freedom Lodge No. 328, to be known as Freedom Lodge No. 328.

• Aliquippa Lodge No. 375 with Youghiogheny Lodge No. 583, to be known as Polaris Lodge No. 375.

• Westmoreland Lodge No. 518 into Philanthropy Lodge No. 225, to be known as Greensburg Lodge No. 225.

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Online Edition

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THE THOMSON CUP Officially titled “The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania Thomson Award for Saving a Human Life,” The Thomson Cup is presented by the R.W. Grand Master to a member of the fraternity who was primarily responsible for saving the life of a fellow human being.

Congratulations to: David A. Labagh, Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown (see pp. 16-17) MASTER BUILDERS AWARD The Master Builders Award recognizes newly made Masons who have worked diligently to engage in the activities of their Lodge, their District and the Fraternity as a whole. Each participant completes several courses via the Grand Lodge’s online education system and completes a personal Masonic journey through other avenues of the Fraternity.

Congratulations to: Brother Robert J. Flom, St. John’s Lodge No. 115 Brother Mark E. Lewis, St. John’s Lodge No. 115 Brother Herman C. Wilson, Jr., St. John’s Lodge No. 115 Brother Robert J. DiPisa, Athelstan-Lamberton Lodge No. 482 Brother Richard J. Golashovsky, Athelstan-Lamberton

Lodge No. 482 Brother James P. Richardson, Equity Lodge No. 591 Brother Lawrence K. Bray, Lodge No. 43 Brother Edward A. Fox, Harrisburg-Snyder Lodge No. 629 Brother Vincent J. Negro, Concordia Lodge No. 67

Pennsylvania Freemason

Brother Enrique Vargas, Jerusalem Lodge No. 506 Brother William P. Weber, Greenleaf Lodge No. 561 Brother Richard T. Troxell, II, Greenleaf Lodge No. 561 Brother James C. Bisel, Warren Lodge No. 240 Brother Bryan E. Beish, Osceola Lodge No. 515 Brother John W. Webb, Springfield-Hanby Lodge No. 767 Brother George J. Albert, Jr., Middleburg Lodge No. 619 Brother Michael R. Schramm, Pocono Lodge No. 780 Brother Wando M. Holt, J. Simpson Africa Lodge No. 628 Brother Thomas O. Sevcik, Dallas Lodge No. 231 Brother Jason G. Sensi, Moosic Lodge No. 664 Brother Clarence S. Owen, Wyoming Lodge No. 468 Brother Joseph F. McCormick, Valley Lodge No. 499 MASTER CRAFTSMAN AWARD The Master Craftsman Award program consists of educational and volunteer requirements that will help both the Lodge and the Brother grow.

Congratulations to: Brother Seth C. Anthony, Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682 Brother Abram M. Shaffner, Mt. Lebanon Lodge No. 226 Brother Jon T. Shumar, King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346 Brother William B. Bittinger, Doric Lodge No. 630 Brother Edward W. Dietz, Jr., Dallas Lodge No. 231

GRAND MASTER’S AWARD The Grand Master’s Award recognizes Lodges for excellence in programming, membership, attendance, charitable giving and community involvement.

Congratulations to: Cassia-Mount Horeb Lodge No. 273 Dallas Lodge No. 231 Emmaus Lodge No. 792 ACADEMY OF MASONIC KNOWLEDGE RECOGNIZED THE FOLLOWING MASTER MASONIC SCHOLARS Congratulations to: Brother Robert D. Nichol, Avalon Lodge No. 657 Brother Russell L. Bland, Fritz Lodge No. 308 The following lists the District Deputy Grand Masters (DDGMs) who completed their terms and the newly appointed DDGMs who will be serving their districts: Congratulations to: District 26: Brother Alan P. Duncan, Lodge No. 429, D.D.G.M., replaces Brother Wayne D. Frankenstein, P.D.D.G.M. District 27: Brother Cody J. Spangler, Lodge No. 239, D.D.G.M., replaces Brother Emilio V. Sforza, P.D.D.G.M. District 33: Brother Christopher N. Evans, Lodge No. 726, D.D.G.M., replaces Brother John W. Hawk, Jr., P.D.D.G.M. District 37: Brother William D. Johnston, Lodge No. 513, D.D.G.M., replaces Brother William A. Mosiey, P.D.D.G.M. District 42: Brother Darrin D. Catts, Lodge No. 336, D.D.G.M., replaces Brother G. Scott Fair, P.D.D.G.M. District 54: Brother Robert W. Lovic, Lodge No. 613, D.D.G.M., replaces Paul J. Roup, P.D.D.G.M.

MASTER PILLAR AWARD

The Master Pillar Award is the highest achievement recognition possible. In addition to the requirements of the Master Craftsman Award, a Master Pillar recipient must serve his Lodge as an elected officer and confer all three Masonic Degrees.

Congratulations to: Brother John R. Segursky, Jr., State College Lodge No. 700 Brother James A. O’Connor, D.D.G.M.-21, State College Lodge The June Quarterly Communication will be held on June

No. 700 24, 2017, at the Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center, 3579 Masonic Way, Pittsburgh, Pa. February 2017

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FREEMASONRY TODAY

SERVING UP A LABOR OF LOVE Meet Lynn Dietz, First Lady and Chef Extraordinaire Growing up on the north side of Pittsburgh, Lynn Dietz can vividly remember making dumplings with her grandmother at age 4, standing on a step stool in front of a pot of boiling water. She and her younger brothers would help her mother and grandmother cut loaves of bread for the stuffing for Thanksgiving dinner. Later, when they moved to North Hills, every day after school “was like a Pillsbury bakeoff,” with plenty of sweet treats ready for their friends to gobble up on their way home from school.

“I’ve always cooked,” Lynn recalls. It’s in her blood.

In fact, the first Thanksgiving she cooked on her own was when her mother was in the hospital for an extended time. At age 16, Lynn decided this holiday would be no different than any other; the entire extended family would expect a traditional dinner, and she was determined not to disappoint. With a little guidance from her grandmother and help from her brothers, she cooked a complete dinner and prepared a beautiful table set with china, as always.

Lynn doesn’t use recipes or measure her ingredients; she tastes and makes adjustments until she achieves her desired result. She inherited her love of the kitchen from her grandmother. “She never bought bagged noodles,” Lynn recalls. Since her grandmother lived with them, Lynn learned how to cook and bake lemon meringue and coconut cream pies for the local fire company’s bingo nights. Lynn still uses her grandmother’s and mother’s rolling pins.

When the Dietzes’ daughters, Jennifer and Jessica, were younger, Friday nights were reserved for uninterrupted family time around the dinner table. And every Sunday, Lynn prepared a large family dinner for 1214

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18 people. It was a time to sit around, talk, enjoy dinner and play cards. Everyone would go home with doggie bags, upon Lynn’s insistence.

Lynn’s advice for a successful presentation? “Do as much preparation ahead of time as you can.” She plans her menu based on how many people she’s expecting and what the time frame of events will be. She insists on having all the food on the table at the same time, even while catering to individual preferences, such as how well done each person likes his or her steak.

The most people Lynn has cooked for was 300 at a 50th birthday party for Grand Master Ray and his twin brother, Rich. She also catered an Italian feast at the Pittsburgh Masonic Center. “It gives me great pleasure to see the finished product and people enjoying it,” she says.

Having such a skilled chef for a wife, Grand Master Ray would rather dine in than go out to a restaurant. “Whatever she does, she does big,” he says. “You request anything you want to have for dinner, and she can cook it.” But her talents don’t end there. She also makes delightful pastries and decorates beautiful cakes.

Christmas has historically been a huge family reunion at the Dietz residence; for the past 24 years, 60-80 relatives come to enjoy fellowship … and of course, Lynn’s cooking.

“My father always taught us that family comes first, to always respect your wife and never take her for granted,” Grand Master Ray said. “You can accomplish all you want when you’ve got a strong family.”

Pennsylvania Freemason

FEEDING THE FRATERNITY Meet Brother Clarence Riley

by Brother Thomas R. Labagh, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation When Brother Clarence Riley closed the doors on Commonwealth Caterers at the end of 2016, it was the end of the 50-year career of an “average man and Mason” doing the best he could to take care of his family and his customers. He served hundreds of thousands of meals over the years in support of the Pennsylvania Masonic fraternity.

Brother Clarence never needed formal training in a chef’s school, as his mother was a cook and his father was a baker. At age 12, he began working part-time in various restaurants, absorbing everything he could about cooking and running a business.

In 1966, Brother Clarence began a full-time catering job in Marietta, Pa., at age 21. “I just learned from everything I did and grew into the work,” he recalls. He expanded and ran a restaurant for about nine years, but found offering “the same stuff every day” to be monotonous. The catering side of his business was much more interesting to him.

“If I had to do it all over again, I’d still be a caterer,” Brother Clarence states. The varied requirements of each job kept him in tune with the needs of customers and trends in wedding and business event catering. He held the contract with Allegheny Airlines, and later, U.S. Air, for all the airline food service from Harrisburg – back when there was food service on long flights. He operated several AMP Inc. cafeterias, as well. He also catered for the sponsors’ tents at the Pocono Raceway for 20-plus years. In 2002, he opened Spring Garden Conference Center, in Middletown, and hosted thousands of events, large and small, in a firstclass catering hall.

Brother Clarence’s business, Commonwealth Catering, was the exclusive caterer for 38 years at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown and the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation, providing food service for all outside organizations using facilities at the campuses.

Seeing the work Freemasonry did for the Masonic youth groups and the youth in the Masonic Children’s Home, and the charitable work on behalf of widows and destitute Masons, in 1981, Brother Clarence petitioned Ashara Lodge No. 398 in his hometown of Marietta, and remains a member of Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551 to this day.

When the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation was

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formed, and the Patton Campus was renovated in 1982 and 1983, Bro. Clarence was intimately involved in the design of the dining room and the serving kitchen in Memorial Hall.

While serving the Masonic youth programs, he worked diligently to create menus that would insure healthy food options for all participants. He also created unique menus for programs such as pig roasts, luaus, casino nights and other receptions. He has always been a fan of the young men who come to the annual DeMolay Key Man Conference because of their politeness and enthusiasm. On more than one occasion, he hosted a dinner at his conference center to teach proper etiquette at banquets and formal affairs to the older DeMolay state officers.

Brother Clarence often supported local Lodges and youth groups by providing food products or soft goods for fund raising dinners. He has been a regular contributor to numerous Masonic charities. In 1995, Brother Clarence was awarded the Honorary Legion of Honor for his years of support and service to DeMolay, both professionally and personally. In December, to commemorate his retirement, he was designated a Frank S. Land Fellow by DeMolay International.

Brother Clarence has had a wonderful career doing what he does best: enjoying the relationships with his customers and making a living for his family, in service to the community and the Fraternity.

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FREEMASONRY TODAY

OUR BROTHERS’ KEEPERS:

THE GIFT OF LIFE

by Brother P.J. Roup, P.D.D.G.M.-54

It’s not much of an exaggeration to say that Brother David Labagh has known Brother Allen Moyer all his life, nor is it an exaggeration to say that Freemasonry is responsible for their friendship. “Some of my earliest memories come from when I was running around the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation office bugging Allen,” Brother David said.

His father, Brother Tom Labagh, was the Executive Director of the then Pennsylvania (Masonic) Youth Foundation, where Allen worked as his assistant, and young David could often be found in the office. Tom and his wife, Ginny, had a close relationship with Allen, and asked him to be legal guardian of their children, their godfather.

Over the years, Allen and David served together in DeMolay and as Lodge Brothers. Last year, though, they became what one might call “blood brothers.”

In April 2015, Brother Allen started feeling ill after eating a spinach salad at a local pizzeria. “At first, I thought it was just a mild case of food poisoning, but it persisted for a week,” he recalls. He went to see a doctor, and after undergoing some tests, it was confirmed that he had liver cancer. His options were radiation and chemotherapy, which would give him one and a half to two years, or a liver transplant. He and his wife, Emily, decided on the transplant option. In June, they drove to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., to see if he was a candidate for the procedure. He was, and he spent the next several months traveling back and forth to Minnesota for tests and procedures to stay healthy until a suitable liver was found.

When Brother David initially heard the news on Allen’s condition, he briefly discussed the situation with his wife, Amy. “I remember telling her that I could give him part of my liver. I was healthy. I could do it,” he said.

In September of that year, Brother Allen participated in the Grotto’s highway cleanup. Brother David didn’t expect

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Pennsylvania Freemason

to see him at breakfast, but there he was, tired, yet ready to help. As the conversation turned to Allen’s illness, David offhandedly told Allen he could have part of his liver. Allen deflected the offer with a joke about how great it would be to have matching scars, and that’s where the conversation ended – for the time.

Unfortunately, Brother Allen pushed a little too hard that day and wound up in the hospital the following morning.

He began losing weight, and his condition worsened. Emily put word out on social media and through email lists that anyone who wished to be considered as a living donor should contact the Mayo Clinic. Brother David knew what he had to do. “After multiple conversations with my dad and my wife, I filled out the online living donor form on Mayo Clinic’s website. Within a few days, I received phone calls, emails and eventually a blood kit to send back to the clinic to confirm my blood type was a match,” he recalled. After the preliminary screening, he was invited to the Mayo Clinic for several days of testing.

“It was three straight days of needles, heart rate monitors, MRIs, X-rays, being injected with dyes and answering the same questions while being told all of the risks of being a liver donor over and over again,” David said. “It was like they were trying to talk me out of it. All of this to tell me what I already knew: I was a healthy 28-year-old male with a blood type of A+ and a perfect candidate to be a living liver donor. I knew I would be a match. They wouldn’t have invited me up there if they didn’t think there was a good chance I’d be a match. I wanted to be.”

Brother David is genuinely uncomfortable with the spotlight. If he could have been completely anonymous through the process, he would have. He believes he did what anyone would do and nothing more. “The ideals I’ve learned [about helping others in need] through the Masonic Fraternity have just become part of my everyday life, just second nature to me,” David said.

Once it was confirmed that Brother David was a match, he told Amy and his father he was going to donate.

(He still jokes that his mother is angry he never asked her for permission.) Then, in late November, David dropped by Allen’s house under the pretense of offering him a ride to that night’s Grotto meeting. “I figured I could give you a ride to the meeting,” David began. “And part of my liver.”

Allen and Emily were speechless. Once the shock wore off, they all shared an emotional and tear-filled hug. “What I thought when David told me what he wanted to do cannot be put into words,” Allen recalls. “Here was a young man willing to put his life on hold and undergo a dangerous operation to

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help me in my time of need. I still cry on that. My wife and my children still cry on that.”

Things moved quickly from there. The Mayo Clinic told them both to be in Minnesota by Dec. 1, and two days later, they underwent their respective surgeries. David was home about 10 days later, and Allen was released in early January.

“It’s been a slow recovery for me, one that will take several years, but I’ve recovered my weight, and I feel stronger every day,” Allen reflects, adding, “Something about a 29-year-old liver in me may have something to do with it.”

The Masonic Blood and Organ Club was invaluable throughout the process, helping to get the word out about Allen’s need and encouraging potential volunteers to step forward. The club also assisted with travel and hotel expenses for both families during the process. “My family was able to come visit me during my recovery, thanks to the Blood Club,” David said.

So, what do you do to thank the person who gave you a second chance at life? For Allen, that was easy. “Many years ago, Brother Sam Williamson, R.W. Past Grand Master, gave me a Masonic ring he had worn when he first joined the fraternity. As a small token of my gratitude and a symbol of my love for him, I gave that ring to David,” Allen said. “I also thought it a proper thing to do knowing the close relationship that exists between Sam and David.”

David keeps that ring on his key chain as another reminder of the special bond the two of them share, but he states that the most meaningful gifts he has received are the “thank yous” and handshakes he receives from Allen’s friends and family.

At the Quarterly Communication on Dec. 7, 2016, David received the Thomson Cup, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania’s award for saving a human life.

“Masonry claims to make good men better,” Brother Allen said. “The fraternity didn’t have a difficult job doing that for David. His upbringing molded him into the man he is today: his family, his friends, his church, DeMolay. All these things bent that twig so it would grow into a strong and beautiful tree.” Adding that thanks to David, “I now have a new lease on life, another chance to contribute ‘by precept and example.’”

In the United States, you must choose to be an organ donor by opting into the system (usually when you renew your driver’s license). Doing so may make it possible to save the lives of several people. For more information, please visit pamasons.org/bloodclub.

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MASONIC EDUCATION

CANNON FIRE IN OPEN LODGE: NOMENCLATURE IN TABLE LODGES

by Brother Seth Anthony, P.M., Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown

“It was expedient to abolish the old custom of studying Geometry in the Lodge, and some younger Brethren made it appear that a good knife and fork, in the hands of a dexterous Brother, over proper materials (food), would give great satisfaction and add more to the conviviality of the Lodge than the best Scale and Compasses in Europe.”

- Lawrence Dermott, Author of the first Ahiman Rezon

The ritual used for a Table Lodge in Pennsylvania is very similar to that used for the opening and closing of any Lodge meeting. This, of course, is to be expected; and, just as other jurisdictions’ regular ritual differs greatly from our own, so do their Table Lodges. Where we have three toasts, they often have seven or more. Pennsylvania Masons imbibe their beverages and “take fire” in a very specific way, contrasting to that of other Grand Lodges. While these differences just scratch the surface, one of the most overlooked parts of a Table Lodge isn’t the ritual. Rather, it’s the nomenclature that explains the phraseology that we use.

When Table Lodges were first introduced in the early days of Freemasonry, many of the members had or were serving in armies across the world. The Colonial Era had dispersed Brothers far and wide while on their service, and meeting as Masons gave them an additional opportunity for fellowship and brotherhood. Naturally, words, phrases and names of the military began to be used for objects and acts in Table Lodges, as well.

Let’s start with the most basic: “cannons” and “taking fire.”

When someone “charged the cannon,” they simply were pouring a beverage into a glass. The glass became the cannon, the act of pouring became charging and the beverage became

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powder, often referred to as “weak” or “strong,” based upon the alcohol content. Once a Brother’s “cannon was charged,” he was prepared to “take fire,” by quaffing down the drink following an appropriate toast, usually slamming his glass on the table at the end, in unison with his Brothers. These simple wording changes gave the ceremony a bit more flair, making it fun for all involved.

The nomenclature didn’t stop there, however. Once the Brothers got on a roll, everything had to be renamed, all in good fun, of course! Here’s a quick run-down of some other names peculiar to traditional Table Lodges: • Table / Trestleboard • Table Cloth / Standard • Napkins / Flags • Plates / Tiles • Dishes / Platforms • Spoons / Trowels • Knives / Swords • Forks / Mattocks • Bottles / Barrels • Lights / Stars • Chairs / Stalls • Food / Materials • Bread / Rough Ashlar • Salt / Sand • Pepper / Dust • Mustard / Paint Many Lodges in Pennsylvania enjoy holding a regular Table Lodge, often on an annual or biannual basis. Gathering with your Brothers over a meal can provide an excellent opportunity for conversation and fellowship that just can’t be found in a regular Lodge meeting. If your Lodge hasn’t tried a Table Lodge in a while, it’s time to plan one! If a Table Lodge is a steady occurrence, then try mixing it up a bit and introducing more nomenclature to the evening to draw some smiles out of the Brethren.

Remember, you should masticate all of the material presented on the tile in front of you. Take care to use your sword, trowel and mattocks where appropriate. Garnish with paint, dust and sand as desired. Whether the stars are bright or dim, the barrels will provide plenty of powder. Keep your cannons charged and take fire, when ready!

Pennsylvania Freemason

MASONIC BOOK REVIEW “Millennial Apprentices: The Next Revolution in Freemasonry” by Samuel Friedman Reviewed by Cathy Giaimo, Assistant Librarian, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania “Why would a young man join the world’s oldest fraternity?” is the first line in the introduction to Brother Samuel Friedman’s book, “Millennial Apprentices: The Next Revolution in Freemasonry,” and a question he seeks to answer. Brother Friedman, a member of the Millennial generation as well as a proud New York Mason, looks at what Masonic membership has to offer and how Freemasonry can make itself more enticing to the young men of this generation.

There is no better way to see where Freemasonry is going than by examining its history and seeing how it got to its present state. Brother Friedman concisely works his way through the history of operative and speculative Freemasonry, noting how Freemasonry changed from an institution that encouraged philosophical discourse and opened new social ideals to one with an emphasis on sociability.

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Brother Friedman explains what Millennials are seeking in Freemasonry: an organization that takes not only its history seriously but also its rituals, philosophy and education. For this, he looks to the Observant Craft movement with its emphasis on Masonic esotericism, rituals and philosophical discussions in Lodge, much like the Lodges of the 18th century.

To make his point, interestingly enough, he spends a chapter on Freemasonry in Lebanon, where many of the members he met were of his generation. Lebanese society is very sectarian, but within the Lodge, men of different faiths, languages and social standing come together as equals. As these brothers grow in their Masonic understanding, they will be equipped to bring about social changes in similar ways – like our early Masonic forefathers did.

Brother Friedman concludes his book with his ideal Lodge meeting and philosophical discussion. Led by the Lodge officers, in an orderly fashion, the Brethren join in one by one, lighting a candle and offering their cogent arguments on the topic of discussion until the darkness has been vanquished, and once again, Freemasonry has brought light into the room.

If you are interested in borrowing “Millennial Apprentices,” contact the library at 800-462-0430, ext. 1933 or visit The Masonic Library & Museum online catalog at pamasons.org.

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MASONIC EDUCATION

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Robert L. Dluge, Jr., R.W. Grand Master (2000-2001) At an age when many eye retirement, Brother Robert L. Dluge, Jr., R.W. Past Grand Master, is busy as ever with family, work, community service and of course, Freemasonry.

Brother Bob and his wife, Debra, are the proud parents of three daughters with demanding careers and growing families. Dawn and Jennifer are physician’s assistants, and Stephanie is a teacher. They’ve blessed their parents with five grandchildren between the ages of 1 – 11 who keep Debra busy as the family’s “on-call professional baby sitter.”

A partner with Diehl, Dluge, Michetti and Michetti in Elysburg, Brother Bob practices law in the areas of estate planning, business and personal planning and real estate. His experience includes having worked for both the Pennsylvania and U.S. Senates, as well as in law enforcement during his college, post-graduate and law school years. All of his firm’s partners are also members of the fraternity, and three out of the four principals, including Brother Bob, are Past Masters. Brother Hugh Jones, P.D.D.G.M., was a partner until January 2016, when he assumed the role of judge of the Northumberland Court of Common Pleas. Their Masonic bond translates into their work ethic, as they share a similar philosophy for practicing law: their primary goal is to help people.

Besides Freemasonry, Brother Bob is also an Eagle Scout, and has served in various capacities at the local and district level of the Boy Scouts of America, including as a current board member of the Executive Board of the Susquehanna Council. He is a member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church of Elysburg, the Pennsylvania Bar Association and the Northumberland County Bar Association. He has been an Assistant Chief of the Elysburg Fire Company for many years and a member of the Northumberland County Fire Chiefs’ Association. An avid hunter, Brother Bob is also a member of the Valley Gun and Country Club in Elysburg.

Reflecting on his term as Grand Master, Brother Bob is most proud of the programs he instituted that became adopted internationally. One was the matching grant program, which enabled the placement of 400 Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) throughout Pennsylvania. The Grand Lodge donated an AED to the state Capitol in Harrisburg,

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Past Grand Masters

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the first in that facility. Another was the development of the national Daniel Carter Beard Award, which is presented to adult Scouters who are also members of the Masonic Fraternity. Third was the development of the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation’s “LifeSkills” program, which teaches inner strength training and what it takes to live in the real world. The fourth was the Academy of Freemasonry, comprised of three parts: Masonic Schools of Instruction; a leadership program for lodge wardens, started by Edward O. Weisser, R.W. Past Grand Master; and the Academy of

Masonic Knowledge, spearheaded by Thomas W. Jackson, R.W. Past Grand Secretary. The companion to the Academy is the Pennsylvania Lodge of Research, warranted and constituted by Grand Master Dluge. Additionally, the Mentor Program was created with assistance from then-Junior Grand

Pennsylvania Freemason

Warden Ronald A. Aungst, Sr. and Brother and Dr. Elvin Warfel. Brother Bob also created service awards for “unseen” heroes, including a life-saving award, the Thomson Award, named for John Thomson, R.W. Past Grand Master, who had saved several people from drowning in the Delaware River.

Also during his term, the Grand Lodge dedicated the new Little League Volunteer Stadium in a traditional Masonic cornerstone laying, provided a scoreboard, dedicated a statue at the park’s entrance to Little League’s founder, Brother Carl Stotz, and held a big name entertainment charity event.

The most memorable event during Brother Bob’s administration was the 9/11 terrorist attacks. As part of Grand Lodge’s response, Brother Bob tasked Rev. and Brother A. Preston Van Deursen, Grand Chaplain, to develop a prayer to present in all Lodges, and the Office of Gift Planning

to establish a charitable fund to aid any brethren from Pennsylvania or other jurisdictions, who suffered loss in that tragedy. As a result, the Grand Lodge raised over $300,000 to support victims of the tragedy.

A lifelong resident of the Elysburg area, Brother Bob was made a Mason in Elysburg Lodge No. 414, in 1972. He continues to serve on several Grand Lodge committees, helps with special projects and is Scottish Rite’s deputy representative for the Valley of Bloomsburg. His love of Freemasonry has remained strong. Over the years, as he has traveled to other jurisdictions, including Russia, England and France, he is always amazed to see men of goodwill throughout the world. “The only thing that separates us is a language, but we all speak the common language of Freemasonry,” he says.

Gift Shop Debuts New Website Looking for a Masonic gift for a fellow Brother, family member or perhaps, something new for yourself? The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania’s new Online Gift Shop features a wide variety of items, including some unique to Pennsylvania, displayed in a more convenient, easy-to-use interface. Sales help benefit the Masonic Temple’s ongoing restoration. Check it out today: masonicmuseumgifts.com.

Close Up View

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Close Up View

Gift Shop

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MASONIC EDUCATION

CRAFT LODGE VISITS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

by Brother Bryan Hill, P.M., Barger Lodge No. 325, Stroudsburg, and Kite and Key Lodge No. 811, Allentown A visit to a Masonic Lodge is always a gratifying experience, a sharing of knowledge and ideas. You can always find friendship and brotherly love among the Brothers of another Lodge. This is especially true when traveling abroad.

I have been most fortunate to have made many Masonic friends at Masonic Week in Washington, D.C. It is through these fraternal relationships that I have been able to attend Masonic meetings in the United Kingdom. I found these meetings to be most enjoyable.

The first thing you notice on your visit outside of London and other large cities is how small and unassuming the Masonic buildings are. Many are unmarked and can only be found by the address on the building; the Lodge rooms are also small. The membership in each Lodge ranges from a small Lodge of 20 to usually no more than 40. They generally form a new Lodge when they reach the upper number.

When you attend a meeting, you must bring your own regalia. As you enter the Lodge Room, you notice there is checkerboard carpeting on the floor and no altar in

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the center of the room. The other stations are in familiar locations. However, while you recognize the columns, there are other items of Lodge furniture at the stations. If other Lodges meet in the building, their banners are displayed around the Lodge room.

The opening and closing of the Lodge, although familiar, will be new to you. Unlike our practice of recognizing visitors in the meeting, visitors are recognized at the festive board during one of the many toasts. There is no reading of minutes, as they were distributed to the Brethren prior to the meeting. In fact, there is an agenda that is closely followed to facilitate the efficient ending to the meeting.

Perhaps the most impressive part of the meeting is the report of the Almoner. Because of the small size of the Lodges, you are struck with the thought that they truly know and care about each other. At one such meeting, the Almoner reported on a Brother who had been recently hospitalized. He had visited the Brother at his home and gave a complete report on his condition and prognosis for his recovery. In addition, he reported that a Brother had

Pennsylvania Freemason

been made redundant (laid off) from his job. The Almoner’s Fund was used to purchase heating oil to ensure that his family was warm in the coming months.

As the Almoner passes a blue velvet bag among the Brothers, they contribute without hesitation to the Almoner’s Fund with large denomination pound notes. They truly believe in brotherly love, affection and charity toward their Brothers.

The business meeting is not the focus in the United Kingdom. It is the festive board after the meeting that makes for a wonderful experience. A festive board is a “right proper” dinner. It is not the light refreshments that most of us experience after our meetings. It was at first surprising that wine was served with the dinner and with the numerous toasts. Many of my English friends were surprised when I was “upstanding” and drank a toast to the Queen. Typically, one of the toasts is to the visitors. It is wise to expect it and to have prepared appropriate remarks for the response to the toast.

Another surprise was that many of the Masonic centers have fully licensed pubs on premises. It was not unusual to have an after-meeting pint before the festive board.

The fellowship and camaraderie often continues after the festive board but not into the wee hours of the morning.

I have often encountered Masons in pubs in London.

They are quite easy to spot with their Masonic suits consisting of hickory striped pants with black jackets and vests. Because their Lodges have no regalia, they are often

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seen with apron cases. I have found the Brothers a bit guarded at first; however, Freemasonry is universal, and as soon they recognize you as a Brother, Freemasons in the United Kingdom could not be more hospitable and helpful.

It is interesting to note that there are two Grand Lodges in England and Wales solely for women, and another that admits both men and women. While their practices appear to be regular, they are not recognized by the United Grand Lodge of England, and inter-visitation may not take place. I had the pleasure of meeting the Grand Master of the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons Most Worshipful Brother Christine Chapman. Yes, the lady Masons refer to each other as “Brother!”

I hope that someday you have the opportunity to visit a foreign Lodge. My advice is that you first contact the Grand Secretary’s office to obtain a Travel Commission. This can be accomplished on our Grand Lodge website. Masons in other jurisdictions have Grand Lodge Certificates, while we will be recognized by our Commission and our dues card.

HAPPY TRAVELS!

Photos l - r: 1. The Master’s station inside Lewes Freemasons Hall. 2. The Lewes Freemasons Hall, originally built in 1797 on the north tower of the of the old town of Westgate. It was rebuilt in 1868 and is the building the Lodge occupies now. It is one of the oldest purpose-built Masonic Temples in continuous use in England. 3. Worshipful Brother Roderick Barker near the Junior and Senior Warden stations. 4. Brother Bryan Hill sitting in the Worshipful Master’s chair.

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PHIL ANTHROPY - Help For Our Heroes

HELP FOR OUR HEROES

OVER $1 MILLION DONATED! To thank PA Masons for their continued support through various efforts including military baby showers, as shown above, leadership of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst recently hosted two dozen brethren for a tour of the C-17 aircraft and a demonstration of the military attack dogs.

What started in January 2008 as a way for Pennsylvania Freemasons to show their support for the U.S. military by contributing their pocket change during monthly membership meetings has to date totaled over $1 million! These donations have provided: • Calling cards for Pennsylvania soldiers deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq and to injured soldiers in hospitals • Financial support for baby showers for military mothers-to-be hosted in conjunction with the March of Dimes, providing many supplies needed for a baby’s first year of life • Telemedicine equipment for troops’ children between Dover Air Force Base and Jefferson University Hospital • A day at Great Adventure amusement park for children of deployed soldiers • Support for Wreaths Across America and Moms for Marines • Christmas parties for troops’ families and for their children with special needs • Projects at The Veterans Group home

• Child day care for children of deployed soldiers • Support for Project HERO at Horsham, which provides adaptive bikes for soldiers with injuries or disabilities • Mentors for Veterans Courts • Household repairs for military families • Financial assistance for military members facing costly medical bills In addition to donations collected at Lodge meetings, “Help for Our Heroes” collection containers are placed at each of the five Masonic Villages of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. Some Lodges, Lodge members and their spouses have even launched their own fundraisers in their local communities.

Originally created and named the “Change for the Troops” program by R.W. Past Grand Master Stephen Gardner, a Navy veteran, the program primarily supports units and individuals from Pennsylvania. As the purpose of the program broadened from purchasing calling cards to helping military members and veterans in various other ways, its name evolved to “Help for Our Heroes.”

PLEASE KEEP YOUR GENEROUS DONATIONS COMING! 24

Help For Our Heroes

www.pamasons.org/heroes

Pennsylvania Freemason

Brother Robert E. Hughes served as Santa’s helper during HeightsMurray Elementary School’s Literacy Night on Dec. 15, where he read to the children involved in the Raising a Reader program.

To support the Raising a Reader program, individually or through a business, please complete the donation form below and send it to: Masonic Charities, Office of Gift Planning, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Donations received fund the program at schools selected to participate based on need for improvements to literacy outcomes. Please be sure to indicate your support is for the RAR program. For additional information, contact the Masonic Outreach Program at 1-800462-7664 or outreach@masonicvillages.org.

RESPONSE FORM Lodge, District or Individual Donor Name: ___________________________________________ Address: ____________________________________ __________________________________________ City:_______________________________________ State:_____Zip:_______________________ Phone:_____________________________________ Email:__________________________________ Donation Amount: ____________________________ Date:___________________ Method of Payment:  Check (payable to: Masonic Charities)  Credit Card  Visa  MasterCard  American Express Account No.:________________________ Expiration Date: ____________ 3-digit Security Code:_______ 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. Registration does not imply endorsement.

RAR-2017

February 2017

Raising a Reader

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PHIL ANTHROPY - Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation

DeMOLAYS HONOR WORLD WAR II VETERANS From the time his term as Elizabethtown DeMolay’s Junior Councilor was approved, Tim Nevil knew he wanted to host a dinner for veterans on Veterans Day as part of the patriotic theme he chose for his term of office (which ended in January 2017). He just didn’t know who should be invited. The question was easily answered when the Masonic Villages distributed the summer 2016 edition of its Village Voice magazine. It featured a story titled, “The End of an Honorable Era,” which detailed the story of the “Ruptured Ducks.”

The “Ruptured Ducks” is a group of World War II veterans who reside at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown and has periodically met for picnics and social gatherings for the past 11 years under the devoted supervision of Don Muterspaw, a maintenance mechanic with Masonic Village for 35 years, and his wife, Tina. The name of the group comes from the nickname given to the Honorable Service Lapel Pin that was awarded to U.S. military personnel who were honorably discharged during World War II. “We owe World War II veterans a lot,” Muterspaw, a U.S. Army veteran whose father served in World War II, said. “If it wasn’t for veterans, who knows where the country would be? We owe them a debt we cannot repay.”

On Veterans Day, five of the eight “Ruptured Ducks,” along with Don and Tina, attended a shrimp and steak dinner prepared and served by the members and advisors of Elizabethtown 26

Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation

Chapter. The program included a welcome, Pledge of Allegiance and prayer, readings on the history of the Ruptured Duck pin and the DeMolay 7th Preceptor, which encourages new members to be patriots in peace as well as heroes in war.

As a gift to the group, the Elizabethtown Chapter sponsored a paver at the Veterans Grove Eternal Flame in honor of the “Ruptured Ducks,” and each of the veterans was presented with a special certificate denoting this honor.

Front row, l-r: Brother Arthur Linington, Bristol Lodge No. 25. He served on the British Royal Navy’s destroyer HMS Vivacious, which evacuated more than 1,600 men from Dunkirk in 1940 before being hit by an indirect mine explosion. He was then assigned to the battleship HMS Nelson, which was mined on D-Day. Brother Martin Walker, Hiram Lodge No. 81, Philadelphia, and Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown. He served with Gen. Omar Bradley’s First Army when they entered Germany. He later earned a Purple Heart. Brother Raymond Simpson, James W. Brown Lodge No. 675, Johnsonburg, and Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown. He was a member of the Navy’s hospital corps who spent time at a San Diego war hospital caring for wounded vets. Brother Chet Dirk, Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown. He was a radio operator with the Army’s 102nd Division, which required him to be on the front lines. Brother John Liken, Washington Lodge No. 265, Bloomsburg. His Navy ship was in the first flotilla to approach Nagasaki, Japan, after the atomic bomb was dropped. Back row, l-r: DeMolays Holden Green, Alex Spence, Kody Anderson, Blake Anderson and Jake Beers with Donald Muterspaw, Masonic Village employee.

www.pmyf.org

Pennsylvania Freemason

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION SUPPORTS OUR YOUTH

GET INVOLVED TODAY!

DeMolay is an organization dedicated to preparing young men to lead successful, happy and productive lives.

Basing its approach on timeless principles and hands-on experience, DeMolay opens doors for young men ages 12 - 21 by developing the civic awareness, personal responsibility and leadership skills so vitally needed in society today. DeMolay combines this serious mission with a fun approach that builds important bonds of friendship among members in more than 1,000 chapters worldwide. Visit pademolay.org Job’s Daughters is an organization created to unite girls and train leaders. Job’s Daughters enables young ladies between ages 10 - 20 to learn leadership skills, organizational methods and the importance of fulfilling individual responsibilities within a group. By planning their own activities, the members have fun doing what they want to do, and at the same time, create life-lasting friendships. See for yourself what Job’s Daughters can do! Visit paiojd.org

The Order of the Rainbow for Girls is an organization for young women ages 11 - 20 who believe in God and want to have fun and serve their community. By teaching that service can be enjoyable, Rainbow Girls have a positive impact on their surroundings. Visit parainbowgirls.org Scholarship Program: The Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation maintains an Educational Endowment Fund, from which scholarship awards are made annually to deserving recipients in a competitive program. These scholarship, grant and loan opportunities are for Masons, their siblings, children, grandchildren and members of the Masonic related youth groups in Pennsylvania.

The Masonic Scholarship Resource Guide, available to all Pennsylvania Masonic Lodges, lists all awards available, as well as several other awards available to relatives of Masons and Masonic youth group members, which can be applied for separately. Deadline for filing is March 15.

Visit pmyf.org/masonic-scholarship-resource-guide/

Veterans are Invited to Join the PA Masons Veterans Incentive Program www.pamasons.org/incentives Freemasons recognize that our freedom isn’t free. Every male veteran, including those servicemen who are in Active Duty, Reserves and/or Honorably Discharged, will have his initiation fees reduced by $50 from both the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and the Lodge he chooses to join, for a total savings of $100.

February 2017

Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation

www.pmyf.org 27

PHIL ANTHROPY - Masonic Villages

MASONIC VILLAGES CAMPUS UPDATES Across the state, more than 200 people chose the retirement living lifestyle at Masonic Villages in 2016. We welcome them all to our family, and we invite you to join them. Each campus is unique, but no matter which location you choose, you’ll find beautiful homes, engaging events, caring staff and friendly neighbors.

MASONIC VILLAGES VOTED “BEST OF” The Masonic Villages at Lafayette Hill, Elizabethtown and Sewickley have been recognized as the “Best of” in retirement living in Pennsylvania by SeniorAdvisor.com as rated by residents and families. See what others are saying by reading the reviews online.

Regardless of which you choose, maintenance-free living comes standard. Residents have access to six restaurants, three pools and a variety of recreational opportunities, educational programs and scheduled transportation on the 1,400-acre campus. Call today to discuss limited immediate availability for existing apartments or to reserve your new cottage.

Shuttle tours (limited seating – RSVP required):

Wednesdays, April 5, 12, 19 and 26 at 1 p.m.

Visitors Center, Freemasons Cultural Center One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA For more information, call 1-800-676-6452

MASONIC VILLAGE AT SEWICKLEY

In the spring, construction will begin on 72 retirement living cottages at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Each home has two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a spacious sunroom, with the option for a den and a one- or two-car garage, and a select number with basements. Open floor plans provide between 1,543 and 2,000 sq. ft. of living space, vaulted ceilings and thoughtful kitchen designs.

Some exciting changes are on the horizon for the Masonic Village at Sewickley’s 60-acre amenity-rich campus.

To recognize and honor those who have sacrificed for our country, the new Veterans Garden and Pond at the Masonic Village at Sewickley will be constructed beginning in the spring. Features will include a life-sized bronze statue of President George Washington, a water fountain, benches and pavers inscribed in honor or in memory of donors, veterans and loved ones serving in the armed forces. To support the

www.masonicvillages.org

Pennsylvania Freemason

MASONIC VILLAGE AT ELIZABETHTOWN

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Masonic Villages

construction and maintenance of this beautiful, sacred area, visit MasonicCharitiesPa.org/donate-now/.

A new exhibition kitchen in the restaurant will feature a stone hearth oven and a buffet line. The Grill Room will be expanded with an additional 22 indoor seats and an outside seating area overlooking the woods. Residents can also gather in a new pub in the Clubhouse.

Meet, tour and dine with our residents and learn why the Masonic Village at Sewickley might just be the perfect fit for you.

Lifecare presentation: March 23 at 10 a.m.

Masonic Village Clubhouse 1000 Masonic Drive, Sewickley, PA Call 724-242-5099 to RSVP.

MASONIC VILLAGE AT DALLAS Masonic Village at Dallas welcomed its first residents 10 years ago. Since then, we have made numerous changes and created innovative programs which have attracted more and more individuals to Northeastern Pennsylvania’s finest active 60-plus community. Living amidst the endless mountain region, residents of Masonic Village at Dallas enjoy cuisine and community events at the Irem Clubhouse on campus and wellness, lifelong learning, fitness and cultural programs at neighboring Misericordia University.

For those planning for their future, we’re excited to offer the opportunity to join the Priority Waiting List. Call for more details or to schedule a personal visit to discuss your options.

Discover Living at Dallas: March 28 & April 25 36 Ridgway Drive, Dallas, PA Call 570-675-1866 to RSVP.

MASONIC VILLAGE AT LAFAYETTE HILL Residents at the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill spend their days at the in-house bowling alley, computer lab, wellness center, wood shop, putting green, or participating in residentrun clubs and intergenerational activities and more. Even dogs enjoy themselves at the newly added dog park. With downtown Philadelphia just 30 minutes away, residents can also explore the city’s shopping, cultural and historic sites, and return home to enjoy the safety and beauty of the suburbs.

Living options include a variety of one-bedroom, onebedroom den and two-bedroom apartments, including some with balconies or patios.

MASONIC VILLAGE AT WARMINSTER Our smallest community (with a big heart) has welcomed Kelly Weaver to its family as Executive Director. She is new to this position, but not to Masonic Villages. She has been Assistant Executive Director at the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill since December 2012. Kelly is responsible for managing all facets of the community’s operations including ensuring all residents’ needs are met and providing leadership to staff in service enhancement, quality improvement and regulatory compliance.

Kelly earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from DeSales University, Center Valley, Pa., and her master’s degree in counseling psychology and human service from Chestnut Hill College, Philadelphia. She is a licensed nursing home administrator and personal care home administrator.

MASONIC VILLAGES’ ADMISSIONS POLICY Admissions to the Masonic Villages are governed by the board of directors, members of which are elected by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. The board of directors approves or disapproves applications for admission primarily on the basis of need. Decisions concerning admission, the provision of services and referrals of residents are not based upon the applicant’s race, color, religion, disability, ancestry, national origin, familial status, age, sex, limited English proficiency (LEP) or any other protected status.

Regardless of your financial situation, you can afford to move to a Masonic Village! When you choose to live at the Masonic Villages, you are not required to turn over your assets; you maintain complete control of them. Fraternal support enables the Masonic Villages to serve all eligible individuals as part of our Mission of Love.

Please contact the Admissions or Marketing Office at the Masonic Village of your preference for information on the living area desired. Visit www.masonicvillages.org.

Lunch & Learn: April 20

801 Ridge Pike, Lafayette Hill, PA Call 610-828-5760 to RSVP.

February 2017

Masonic Villages

www.masonicvillages.org 29

PHIL ANTHROPY - Masonic Villages

IN THE BLINK OF AN EYE Fortunately, Brother Scott Baker, Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551, Mount Joy, doesn’t recall the traumatic motorcycle accident that left him severely injured. He woke up in the hospital in late June, facing a long road to recovery.

As he healed, he knew rehabilitation would be a vital part of learning to walk again. As a Mason, he knew the best place to receive rehabilitation services was the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s Transitional Care Unit.

“I received excellent care,” he said. “I went from not being able to get out of bed to walking in a short period of time. The treatment was very good. It was the next best thing to being home.”

One of the highlights of his experience was the friendliness and encouragement of those at Masonic Village.

“The staff was very helpful,” he said. “You couldn’t ask for better people. Everybody wants to see you recover from your injury.”

It also helped to have visitors, including Brethren from the Lodges of District 1, who surprised him one afternoon. His Lodge Brothers have continued to assist him as he progresses.

“I’m Treasurer of my Lodge, and they stepped in and covered for me and also have supported my family with anything we need, such as taking care of my house and other chores.”

Brother Scott has returned home where his recovery continues. “My long-term goals are getting back to a normal life and enjoying spending time with family, friends and my Lodge Brothers,” he said.

For more information about short-term rehabilitation services available at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown and Sewickley, visit MasonicVillages.org/transitional-care/. You may also call 717-361-4552 or 1-800-422-1207 for services in Elizabethtown, or 412-741-1400, ext. 3600 for services in Sewickley.

2017 FLORIDA REUNIONS

SAVE THE DATES!

Friday, March 10, 2017

Autumn Day at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown

Saturday, March 11, 2017

Date change: Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017

Hyatt Regency Sarasota, Sarasota

Palm Beach Gardens Marriott, Palm Beach

Both reunions feature a reception (11 - 11:45 a.m.) followed by lunch (11:45 a.m.) and a program (1 - 2 p.m.) Please note that we will not be holding a reunion in Tampa, Florida.

If you have any questions, please call 717-367-1121 ext. 33382

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Masonic Villages

www.masonicvillages.org

Community Festival & Open House at Masonic Village at Sewickley Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017

Pennsylvania Freemason

Qty Item Masonic Village at Elizabethtown 10 Nursing/Personal Care clothing certificates 20 Home Care gift certificates 113 Silent alarm systems 42 Specialty wheelchair cushions 30 EZ Repositioners 10 Isolation carts 11 Bose stereo systems 3 Electric lift recliners 3 Chair scales 2 Eva pneumatic platform walkers 13 Automated vital signs machines 2 Specialty beds for resident mobility 1 Dining room table & chairs 7 Bariatric/transfer lifts 1 Patio furniture set for Personal Care 5 Ceiling mounted lifts 2 Gazebos for Memory Care neighborhoods 1 Pharmacy delivery vehicle Hospice 5 Gift cards to local spa 1 Week at the shore Bleiler Caring Cottage 10 Folding chairs for gatherings 8 Adirondack chairs New window blinds New family/living room furniture Masonic Children’s Home 4 Office chairs 6 College books stipend Barnstormers game Hersheypark trip Wildwood, N.J. shore trip Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill Allentown Band performance 1 LifePack CR Plus Harvest Ball event Drama lessons/activities for residents Masonic Village at Sewickley 1 Camel lift 1 4-Channel electric stimulation Masonic Village at Dallas 1 Cot or roll away bed 2 Awnings (retractable) Masonic Village at Warminster 1 Raised garden bed 2 Digital vital sign monitors 1 Broda wheelchair 1 Pergola with awning

February 2017

Unit Cost $50 $50 $174 $500 $700 $800 $1,100 $1,200 $2,000 $2,000 $3,500 $3,700 $4,500 $5,000 $5,000 $7,000 $8,000 $15,000 $100 $1,500 $30 $100 $2,500 $3,500 $100 $1,000 $1,500 $2,250 $5,950

MASONIC VILLAGES’

2017

WISH LIST ITEMS OFFICE OF GIFT PLANNING

1-800-599-6454

Thank you to the following individuals who have provided for the following items since the last issue: Masonic Children’s Home Brother Wayne and Nancy Lee Garafola: Various items Brother Ronald and Judy McKnight: Various items Brother James Robb: Holiday gift cards Leatrice Warner: Two computer chairs Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Paula Hess: Two silent alarm systems Hospice Masonic Village Piecemakers Quilting Club: Special moments Beatrice Row: Special moments Bleiler Caring Cottage Brother Ted and Meg Lichtenwalner: Fire pit

There is an all-inclusive wish list posted on the Masonic Charities website at MasonicCharitiesPA.org, or feel free to contact the Office of Gift Planning at 1-800-599-6454. Please note that if funds donated for any item listed are over- subscribed, the funds will be used for additional wish list items or needs in the same service area.

$1,400 $1,900 $2,500 $3,000 $3,000 $4,400 $250 $2,300 $1,200 $1,864 $2,550 $6,000

Masonic Charities

www.masoniccharitiespa.org 31

Guaranteed Lifetime Income The need for a reliable income source is of special importance.

Why not consider replacing that low rate CD or money market fund with a higher payout rate from a charitable gift annuity? For greater savings, you can transfer any stock or mutual fund (except from an IRA or tax-deferred annuity) to fund your annuity and avoid taxes you would have incurred on the sale of such holdings.

Because the amounts transferred to fund your annuity are irrevocable, you receive a charitable tax deduction which, in most cases, is equal to more than half the value of your annuity. Best of all, any remaining funds available at the conclusion of the annuity will go to the Masonic charity of your choice.

It doesn’t get any better than this! You get: 1. A great payout rate.

2. Possible avoidance of capital gain taxes.

3. A charitable tax deduction.

4. The satisfaction of supporting the Masonic charity of your choice.

Sample rates for single or joint life annuities are listed in the box below. Contact us today or send in the coupon below to get a personal illustration of the benefits you can receive with a charitable gift annuity from the Masonic Charities.

Age 70 75 77 81 85 90+

SAMPLE GUARANTEED LIFETIME RATES For One Life For Two Lives Rate Age Rate 5.1% 70 & 75 4.8% 5.8% 75 & 80 5.3% 6.2% 78 & 81 5.6% 7.0% 83 & 83 6.3% 7.8% 85 & 87 7.0% 9.0% 85 & 90 7.3%

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

Minimum contribution $5,000. Minimum age 65.

COMPLETE AND MAIL THIS FORM TO:

Office of Gift Planning, One Masonic Dr., Elizabethtown, PA 17022 Telephone 1-800-599-6454 I would like more information, with no obligation. Please:  Send me a Charitable Gift Annuity illustration.

Name(s)__________________________________________________________ Address__________________________________________________________ Telephone: ( )_____________________________________________ Email:___________________________________________________________ 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__________________________

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.