Freemason - January 2012

The Pennsylvania

January 2012 • Volume LIX No. 1

Jay w. Smith

R.W. Grand Master

Inside this Issue...

THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON® VOL. LIX, JANUARY 2012, NO. 1

©2012 The R.W. Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of PA

EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman Jay W. Smith, R.W.G.M. Robert J. Bateman, R.W.D.G.M. Raymond T. Dietz, R.W.S.G.W. S. Eugene Herritt, R.W.J.G.W. Jeffrey W. Coy, R.W.G.T. Mark A. Haines, R.W.G.S. EDITORIAL STAFF Tina L. Raybold - Production Coordinator Rich Johnson - Graphic Designer Thomas R. Labagh - Executive Director, PMYF, Consultant Masonic Library & Museum of PA Staff

3 Grand Lodge

• Grand Master’s Message • 2012 Calendar of Events • Meet R. W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith • R. W. Grand Lodge Officers • 2012 Appointed Floor Officers, Aides to the Grand Master and District Deputy Grand Masters • Help for Our Heroes • • Florida Masonic Reunions • Friend to Friend & Mentor Programs - Renewed

17 Lodge and District

• New Grotto Constituted • Happenings & Community Service Initiatives Across the State

22 Pennsylvania Freemason

• A Legacy of Generosity • The Marcellus Shale Connection

24 PA Masonic Youth Foundation

• DeMolays Provide Service with a Smile • Scholarship Funds Encourage Youth to Succeed • Jobies Receive Support for Activities & HIKE • Masons Changing the Lives of Youth

28 Masonic Villages

• Date Stone Ceremony Celebrated • Massing of the Colors • Why Would You Move Anywhere Else?

• 2012 Wish List Items

(Publication No. USPS 426-140) January 2012 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@ masonicvillagespa.org. Except by special arrangement, all articles, photographs and artwork become the property of the Grand Lodge.

Published by the Masonic Villages, owned and operated by the Grand Lodge of 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.

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP (Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United States Code) Jan. 1, 2012, 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: Jay W. Smith. Owner: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Known bondholders: none. No advertising handled. Free distribution averages 134,000 each quarter.

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

Jay W. Smith, Editor Correction: In the Nov. 2011 issue, Doylestown Lodge No. 245 was listed inaccurately as Lodge No. 45. We apologize for the error.

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GRAND MASTER’S MESSAGE Inaugural Address

By Jay W. Smith Right Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania Dec. 27, 2011

Brethren, family & friends As I ponder the task ahead of me as Grand Master, many thoughts cross my mind. The one that comes up most frequently is: What can I do as your Grand Master to make this fraternity flourish for future generations? My theme for the next two years is, “Freemasonry, Master Builders – Building for Our Future.” Many Past Grand Masters have worked hard to advance and grow Freemasonry. Each had his own ideas and objectives for promoting the good of the fraternity, but before the programs could be successful, they fell by the wayside as each new Grand Master initiated his own programs. I intend to continue and expand on Past Grand Masters’ successful programs, as well as introduce my own.

The past two years have been an exciting step toward saving our fraternity. I must congratulate Past Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon for his foresight and concerns for this fraternity, and for following through with his programs.

As we move forward, each one of us must get away from thinking, “But we’ve always done it this way.” There are some in the fraternity who feel that change is either too slow or too fast, and some who do not want any change at all. Many think it is acceptable to watch the fraternity dwindle to nothing while standing silent. We, as a fraternity, have so much to offer to our members and to the society in which we live.

Freemasonry should not be practiced in the dark or hidden under a bushel basket. It should be practiced in the brilliant sunlight for all to see, so it can be said of Freemasonry: “What an ideal way of life for all to follow!” At no time in history has there been a greater need to understand what Freemasonry is and what it stands for, than in our world today. Throughout our history, we have been challenged time and time again. When we respond to these challenges successfully, we will flourish. If we fail to respond in a positive way, we will go backwards. Through the guidance of the men who have preceded us, we will become well and duly prepared for the task which lies ahead of us as members of this great fraternity. We need to build on the successes of our past leaders and follow through proactively. The future belongs to those who can meet and work through the challenges to come.

There are many in our society who would like to see Freemasonry disappear or become an ineffective organization. We cannot allow this to happen! We must begin today to build for our future!

As we go forward into the 21st century, we, as Masons, must be “Master Builders.” In designing my medallion, I wanted to emphasize this concept. The medallion shows a circle of stones held together with a keystone in each quadrant. The circle of stones represents the foundation of Freemasonry and the keystones represent the members and Masonic leaders in Pennsylvania who hold this fraternity together. It also has the working tools of the Master Builders of Freemasonry in each keystone. In the middle, with the square and compasses, is the great light of Freemasonry.

Prior leaders have established foundations and made available many tools and programs for our benefit, and we must accept the responsibility to build on them. In the next two years, we are going to introduce new programs as well as enhance existing ones. We have been given the tools to increase our membership, but many times I have heard that we are a group of uneducated and illinformed brothers when it comes to Freemasonry. We need to better prepare ourselves to communicate effectively, not only to our brothers, but also to non-Masons. I am creating the tools for educating and maintaining our membership by proposing the following programs:

1.

2.

3.

I am establishing a Masonic Internet Educational program for new Master Masons and existing members. The first online educational lessons will be on: the History of Freemasonry, How Freemasonry and Appendant Bodies Were Established in Pennsylvania and Masonic Law. Additional lessons will follow throughout the next two years.

I am proposing that throughout 2012 and 2013, the Grand Lodge fee of $100 and Grand Lodge dues be excused for all full-time students, ages 18-23 years, attending either a two-year or fouryear institution, who join the fraternity. I encourage the lodges also to reduce the initiation fee or lodge dues to attract younger men who attend these institutions to join.

I am establishing a Master Builders Award for new candidates who complete a specified set of requirements.

4 GR AND LODGE 4.

5.

I will continue with the Grand Master’s Award program, established

by Past Grand Master Sturgeon, for lodges that complete a specified set of requirements.

In order to honor our Masonic youth leaders, I have designed a Masonic Apron for our youth leaders who are Masonic members to wear when they attend their lodge meetings. For the ladies and non-Masons who also work with our youth groups, we are in the process of producing a medallion that they can wear to show that they are also youth leaders.

In 2013, I intend to visit the chapters of the Order of the DeMolay, the bethels of Jobs Daughters International and the Rainbow Girls assemblies and give special recognition to each group. I encourage our members to do the same.

6. I am proposing the elimination of new Life and Honorary Memberships

7.

(existing memberships will be honored). This will require a change to the “Ahiman Rezon.” Currently, a Life Membership costs $1,000 and an Honorary Membership costs $600, which is invested in the permanent fund of the lodge. The income off the investment can only be used for the general operations of the lodge. In today’s economic climate, the income from the principal does not cover the member’s lodge dues for the year. The lodges should not be burdened with subsidizing these dues.

I am asking every lodge to establish the Grand Lodge mentoring program for new candidates. I am asking that a brother be assigned as a mentor for one year. This will help our new brothers to become more involved in the working of the lodge and its activities.

8. The new ritual manual is now two years old, and the lodge officers have

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had a chance to use it. It is now time to expand it by adding the rest of our ritualistic work to make it complete. We will add the following: Business of the Lodge, Examination of a Visitor, the Table Lodge and the Procedures for the Election and Installation of Officers. For the first time, all of our ritualistic work will be in one place. There will be no more questions in regard to our ritualistic work.

I would like to see more day-time lodges formed for our senior members and for those members who work night shift who cannot attend lodge meetings in the evening. This could be accomplished by taking a lodge that is struggling and making it into a day-time lodge or by forming a new lodge entirely. (See p. 16 for more information.)

10. I am asking that each lodge have one open house a year during 2012

and 2013, and I suggest that it be done as a district-wide initiative. I am also encouraging the use of a Friend to Friend program as part of the open house.

11. Each district will be required to have a one-day class in the fall of 2012

and the fall of 2013 to welcome new candidates in this expedited fashion.

By accommodating their busy lifestyles, we hope to attract good quality men to join our ranks. If you know of a family member, friend, neighbor or coworker who fits this description, please be sure to tell him about this opportunity.

12. I intend to continue the “Help for Our Heroes” program, established

by Past Grand Master Steve Gardner and supported by Past Grand Master Tom Sturgeon, for as long as we have men and women serving in our military overseas. I have asked Col. and Bro. Harris Brooks and Bro. Harry Rutter to continue to oversee the program. I would like them to explore new ways in which the Masons of Pennsylvania can help our service men and women. Through your efforts over the past four years, we have contributed more than $450,000 to such programs as the calling cards, hospital visits for families of wounded heroes, and our baby showers for expectant military parents.

Pennsylvania Freemason

going to expand the program to include our Masonic youth groups, in order that they may also better communicate with their members. There will be no expense to our youth groups.

14. The Random Acts of Kindness and Community Involvement programs are working and will continue.

15. Finally, in 2013, we will be celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the

Masonic Children’s Home at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.

This celebration will be Oct. 5, 2013. My charity initiative for that year will be the Masonic Children’s Home, and I encourage every lodge to take part. I would like to see each lodge contribute $1,000 to the Masonic Children’s Home during 2013 and present the contribution at the December Quarterly Communication of that year.

As you can see, we have some work ahead of us; but, in 2013, I am planning a 14-day trip to Alaska, which will entail a train excursion and cruise.

In May of 2012, the final dates (end of July/early August) will be established along with final pricing. An outline of our trip will be presented by Holland America during Autumn Day at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown on Sept. 22, 2012.

Before I close, I would like to share some thoughts.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Past Grand Master Scott Stoner.

Bro. Stoner was a very close friend and a mentor throughout my Masonic career. The day I told him I was being recommended by Past Grand Master Ron Aungst to be the R.W. Junior Grand Warden was a day I will always remember. Whoever thought Lodge No. 551, a small lodge in Mount Joy, Pa., would have the privilege of having two of their members serve as Grand Master of this great fraternity? Bro. Stoner was very proud to be a member of this lodge, and I am proud as well. When I think of this marvelous journey I am about to embark upon, I remember how I looked forward to Bro. Stoner being by my side. Just three months after my installation as Junior Grand Warden, I lost this close friend and brother to an illness that he fought for many years. Brother: I think of you and the counseling you provided many times during my Masonic travels.

Never in my Masonic journey did I think that someday I would be Grand Master of Masons in this great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. I know that Bro. Scott is looking down from Heaven above and thinking, “You have a job to do, and you better do it right!” I have every intention of doing the best job possible as your Grand Master.

In closing, I would like to express my appreciation to each of you here today; to all of our guests, who honor us with your presence; and to the brethren of Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551 for their support. I am also very proud and honored to serve as Grand Master at the same time that my son, Bro. Steven Smith, is serving as Worshipful Master of our home lodge.

At this time, I would like to thank my wife of 50 years, Nancy, for her love and support throughout my Masonic career. I would not be standing here as your Grand Master without her by my side. You often have heard the phrase, “Masonic Widow;” many nights, she was just that.

I look forward to serving as your Grand Master for the next two years, and with all of your support, we will have a successful journey.

Thank you.

Respectfully & Fraternally,

13. I also will continue the “Call to the Craft” program. The Grand Lodge

will continue to fund this program, and I expect every lodge to participate.

There is no better way to communicate with our brethren. I am also

R.W. Grand Master

GR AND LODGE 5

January 2012

2012 C ALEN DAR O F

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6 GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason

Biography: R. W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith Bro. Jay W. Smith graduated from Manheim Township High School, Lancaster, Pa., in 1959, and attended Stevens State School of Technology (formally Stevens Trade School) where he studied architectural drawing and engineering. He went to work for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PENNDOT) and upon being encouraged by a mentor on the job, he took night classes for nine years at Penn State University. He then passed his exams and earned his Engineer In Training and then his Professional Engineer and Land Surveying licenses.

“I had a mentor who saw some potential in me and was willing to invest his time to help me succeed,” Bro. Smith said. He retired from PENNDOT as Chief of the Highway Quality Assurance Division after 40 years of service.

Bro. Smith is the first Mason in his family.

(See his Masonic Record on opposing page.)

He inquired about the fraternity after hearing two friends in his church bowling league talk about Freemasonry. Having noticed the men’s moral conduct and professional demeanors, he decided to learn more about it. While Nancy’s father had been a Mason, back then in 1971, the fraternity was still quite secretive. Bro. Smith remembers driving by a building that had a sign reading only “551 F&AM” and wondering if it referred to some type of radio station! Upon joining, it became his lodge home.

“Young men coming into the fraternity today know more about it than I did back then,” Bro. Smith said. Fortunately, once again, he benefitted by the mentorship of two older brethren who took him under their wings and taught him the degree work. That’s why he is so enthusiastic about promoting Masonic Education.

“On the internet, there’s a lot of information, but not all of it’s accurate,” Bro. Smith explained.

“By the time my term is over, my hope is that every new member, as well as each existing member, will be able to explain, when asked, what Freemasonry is, why he joined and what it means to him.” All it takes are brethren who believe in new members’ potential and are willing to invest the time to help them learn the truth about Freemasonry’s past and present, so that it will be preserved and prospered for future generations.

All must be, in fact, “Master Builders – Building for Our Future.”

Bro. Smith and his wife, Nancy, were married on July 9, 1961. Nancy was a stay-athome mother until after their children were married, when she began volunteering at the Lancaster General Hospital. She is a member of Donegal Chapter Order of Eastern Star, having served as Worthy Matron in 1982.

The Smiths are members of Chiques United Methodist Church, where he has served as a Sunday School Teacher and Youth Coordinator.

In addition to the Masonic Charities, they support the American Cancer Society and the Lupus Foundation of America.

When not involved in various Masonic activities, the Smiths enjoy boating at their summer home on the Chesapeake Bay at Red Point, Md. When Bro. Smith was younger, he loved to water ski and knee board on the bay; now, he operates the boat for his children and grandchildren to go water skiing, wake boarding and tubing. They also enjoy gardening, camping and spending time at their hunting cabin in Franklin County. Bro. Smith likes to fish and hunt.

The Smiths have three children, all of whom live close by, and eight grandchildren who keep them busy trying to attend as many sports activities as possible.

They clearly have passed along their Masonic values, doing their part in “Building for the Future.”

Their daughters, Traci and Kristine, were members of Job’s Daughters during their youth.

Traci was Honored Queen of Job’s Daughters, Bethel 15, Elizabethtown, 1983-1984, and Kristine was Honored Queen of Job’s Daughters, Bethel 4, Lancaster, 1988-1989, and Bethel 7, Columbia, 1985-1986.

Their son, Steve, was Master Councilor of Lancaster Chapter Order of DeMolay in 1988 and served as State Master Councilor of DeMolay in 1992-1993. He is Worshipful Master of Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551, Mount Joy, for 2012. Their son-in-law, Jesse Spence, was Master Councilor of Lancaster Chapter Order of DeMolay in 1989 and is also a member of Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551.

Their granddaughter, Brooke Spence, was Honored Queen of Job’s Daughters, Bethel 15, Elizabethtown, in 2010. Granddaughters Nicole and Corrie Baker belong to Bethel 15, where granddaughter McKena Smith is a Jobie-to-Be. Grandsons Jarrid Baker and Alex Spence belong to Elizabethtown Order of DeMolay. Jarrid served as Master Councilor for 2011, and Alex will be installed as Master Councilor in January 2012.

MASONIC RECORD Masonic Affiliation Symbolic

Casiphia Lodge No. 551 (now Ashara -Casiphia Lodge No. 551)

Initiated - April 1971

Passed - May 1971

Raised - June 7, 1971 Worshipful Master (1977, 1981, 2003, 2004) Treasurer (1978, 1982-1990) Trustee (2001, 2002)

Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania

R. W. Deputy Grand Master (2010-2011) R. W. Senior Grand Warden (2008-2009) R. W. Junior Grand Warden (2006-2007) District Deputy Grand Master of Masonic District No. 1 (1991-1999) Junior Grand Deacon (1990-1991) Committee on Landmarks (2006-present) Committee on Finance (2006-present) Committee on Masonic Homes (2006-present) Masonic Homes Admissions, Home Assistance and Resident Services Sub-Committee (2006-2007) Masonic Homes Building and Grounds Sub-Committee (2006-present) Masonic Homes Human Resources Sub- Committee (2008-present) Membership Services Committee Board of Directors (2006-2009) Committee on “The Pennsylvania Freemason” (2006-present) Masonic Library and Museum Board of Directors (2006-present) Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation Board of Directors (2006-2011) District Deputy Grand Master Resource Committee (2000-2001) Committee on Masonic Education (2000-2009)

Other Masonic Affiliated Bodies

Valley of Lancaster, Lodge of Perfection (Thrice Potent Master, 1982) Valley Of Harrisburg (Most Wise Master, Chapter of Rose Croix, 1993) Lancaster County Scottish Rite Club of Harrisburg Consistory (President, 1985) Honorary Member of Supreme Council, 33° Royal Arch Chapter No. 43, Lancaster, Pa. Goodwin Council No. 19, Lancaster, Pa. Lancaster Commandery No. 13, Lancaster, Pa. Trinity Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine, Harrisburg, Pa. Excelsior Mark Lodge No. 216, Philadelphia Zembo Temple Lancaster County Shrine Club Lancaster Forest No. 27, Tall Cedars of Lebanon Pennsylvania Lodge of Research Royal Order of Scotland Constans Council No. 239, Allied Masonic Degrees Pennsylvania College, Masonic Societas Rosicruciana in Civitatibus Foederatis

Honors

DeMolay Legion of Honor DeMolay Cross of Honor

January 2012

GR AND LODGE 7

8 GR AND LODGE

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Pennsylvania Freemason

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10 GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason

Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master

Right Worshipful Senior Grand Warden

Right Worshipful Junior Grand Warden

Robert J. Bateman

Raymond T. Dietz

S. Eugene Herritt

Bro. Robert J. Bateman is a Past Master of Springfield-Hanby Lodge No. 767 and served as District Deputy Grand Master of the 36th Masonic District. He also has served as District Masonic Education Chairman, Representative in Grand Lodge and as an instructor in the School of Instruction.

He is a member of Howell Royal Arch Chapter No. 202; Allen Council Royal and Select Master Masons No. 23; Allen-Beauceant Commandery No. 20, Valley of Philadelphia; Excelsior Mark Lodge No. 216; Constantine Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine; J.M. Alter Council No. 446, Allied Masonic Degrees; Pennsylvania Lodge of Research; Lu Lu Shriners; and the Delaware County Shrine Club. He is a Past Most Wise Master and an Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, 33°. He is also a member of the Masonic Veterans of Pennsylvania, Masonic Blood Donor Club, Pennsylvania Masonic Shield and Square Club, the International Masonic Literary Academy, Royal Order of Scotland and Academy of Masonic Knowledge. He was awarded the DeMolay Legion of Honor.

Bro. Bateman served in the U.S. Active Army Reserves. He retired from the Upper Darby School District after 35 years, last serving as Coordinator for Custodial Services.

Bro. Bateman became a volunteer firefighter at age 16 and is a life member of Upper Darby Fire Company Station 3. He is a member of American Legion Post 214 and the Chapel of the Four Chaplains. He coached both Youth Flag Football and Little League Baseball, and was Treasurer and later President of the Transport Workers Union Local 289 AFL/CIO. Bro. Bateman and his wife, Joanne, live in Upper Darby, Pa. They have three children and four granddaughters. He is a member of Covenant United Methodist Church, where he serves as a consultant for custodial needs and chemical safety and as a member of the Life Center Feeding Program Team to serve the hungry.

Bro. Raymond T. Dietz is a Past Master of Avalon Lodge No. 657. He served as District Deputy Grand Master of the 55th Masonic District, 2004-2009, and on the Grand Lodge Committee on Finance since 2005.

A member of the Valley of Pittsburgh, Bro. Dietz is an Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, 33°. He served as Director of the valley’s Children’s Dyslexia Center and is a member of Hiram’s Scottish Riders. He also is a member of Zerubbabel-Duquesne Royal Arch Chapter No. 162; Mt. Moriah Council No. 2; Pittsburgh Commandery No. 1; Syria Shrine; Naco Caravan No. 19; Royal Order of Jesters, Court No. 2; and Islam Grotto. He is a charter member of the Sewickley High Twelve Club and a member of Masonic Veterans of Western PA. He was awarded the DeMolay Legion of Honor in 2011.

A lifelong resident of Allegheny County, Bro. Dietz graduated from North Hills Senior High School in 1970 and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Robert Morris University, majoring in accounting. Bro. Dietz founded Allstate Financial, Pittsburgh, in 1989, and serves as President. He was previously employed by Bell Federal Savings and Loan for 18 years in various capacities including Senior Vice President.

He has served on the Finance Committee for Northmont Presbyterian Church; as director on the foundation board for Allegheny General Hospital, Suburban Campus; and Director, Treasurer and House Chairman for Shannopin Country Club. He is Director of Newport Condominium Association, Bahamas.

Bro. Dietz has been married for 30 years to the former Lynn Boucher and is the father of two daughters, Jennifer Kelley and Jessica Dietz.

Bro. S. Eugene Herritt will be presented as R. W. Junior Grand Warden to his lodge on Jan. 30, 2012, in Shippensburg. He is a Past Master of Cumberland Valley Lodge No. 315 and served as District Deputy Grand Master for District 3, 2006-2011; as a member of the Committee on Academy of Masonic Knowledge, 2007-2011; as a Representative in Grand Lodge, 1980-2005; and is a Past Lodge Chairman for the Masonic Culture Committee. Bro. Herritt is a member of George Washington Royal Arch Chapter No. 176, George Washington Council No. 66 and Continental Commandery No. 56. He is a Past Sovereign Prince of Harrisburg Council, Princes of Jerusalem of the Scottish Rite Valley of Harrisburg; a Past President of the Shippensburg Scottish Rite Club; and is a member of Zembo Shrine. He also belongs to the York Conclave, Knights of the Red Cross of Constantine; First Capital No. 156, York Rite College; Franklin County High Twelve Club No. 726; and Valley Forest No. 145, Tall Cedars of Lebanon. He is an officer of Constans Council No. 239, Allied Masonic Degrees; a member of the Worshipful Society of Freemasons, Rough Masons, Wallers, Slaters, Paviors, Plasterers and Bricklayers, Allentown; and served as Worshipful Master of the Pennsylvania Lodge of Research in 2011. He was coroneted an Honorary Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33°, on Aug. 31, 2010, in Philadelphia, and was awarded the DeMolay Legion of Honor.

Bro. Herritt graduated from Montoursville High School, earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Clarion University and a Master of Education Degree from Shippensburg University. He is a sales executive with Fortney Packages and is an Adjunct Professor of Marketing at the John L. Grove College of Business at Shippensburg University. He also serves as Chairman of the Board of the Pennsylvania Rural Electric Cooperative in Harrisburg.

He and his wife, Sally, live in Shippensburg and have a daughter, Andrea, and a grandson, Lyric.

and his wife, Joanne

and his wife, Lynn

and his wife, Sally

GR AND LODGE 11

January 2012

Right Worshipful Grand Treasurer

Jeffrey W. Coy

Right Worshipful Grand Secretary

Mark A. Haines

and his wife, Jo Anne

and his wife, Karen

Bro. Coy is a Past Master and past Trustee of Cumberland Valley Lodge No. 315. He has been the Choir Director for the Valley of Harrisburg A.A.S.R., and is an Active Member of the Supreme Council, 33˚, for Pennsylvania.

He is a member of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon, George Washington Royal Arch Chapter No. 176, George Washington Council No. 66, Continental Commandery No. 56, the Royal Order of Scotland and Red Cross of Constantine.

Bro. Coy is a recipient of the DeMolay Legion of Honor. He also has served the Grand Lodge as the Grand Organist for the Central Pennsylvania area.

A graduate of Shippensburg University, Bro. Coy is a former Chairman of the Shippensburg University Board of Trustees.

In 2004, Bro. Coy was awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Public Service from Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania.

Bro. Coy served 11 terms as State Representative for the 89th Legislative District of Franklin and Cumberland counties, having been elected to his first two-year term in 1982.

He is also Vice Chairman of the Orrstown Bank and is a member of many other community organizations.

Bro. Coy served nine years on the Chesapeake Bay Commission with representatives from Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia. For seven years, from 20042011, he served as a Commissioner of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. He was installed as the R.W. Grand Treasurer on Dec. 27, 2003.

He and his wife, Jo Anne, live in Shippensburg. They are members of Memorial Lutheran Church, where he has been the organist for more than 30 years.

Bro. Haines is a Past Master of Reading Lodge No. 549 and is a dual member of Teutonia Lodge No. 367. He served as District Deputy Grand Master for the 7th Masonic District and is a member of the Pennsylvania Lodge of Research. He is a Past Most Excellent High Priest of Reading Royal Arch Chapter No. 152 and is a member of Creigh Council No. 16, Royal and Select Masters; a member of Reading Commandery No. 9; a Past Puissant Sovereign of Constantine Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine; and a member of Excelsior Mark Lodge No. 216. Bro. Haines is a Past Thrice Potent Master and Trustee of Reading Lodge of Perfection, a member of the Valley of Reading and is an Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, 33˚. He is a Past President of the Director’s Staff of Rajah Shrine and a member of Fellowship High Twelve Club No. 669.

An Advisor for the Reading Chapter, Order of DeMolay, Bro. Haines was awarded the DeMolay Legion of Honor. He also served as an Advisor for Reading Assembly, International Order of the Rainbow for Girls.

Bro. Haines graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Business Administration.

He was installed as the R. W. Grand Secretary on Dec. 27, 2005. Previously, he was employed as Deputy Grand Secretary and held various management positions within the insurance industry.

He and his wife, Karen, have five children and one granddaughter. They live in West Lawn and attend Peace Lutheran Church, where Bro. Haines is a member of the church choir and serves on the church council.

Grand Master’s Medallion As we go forward into the 21st century, we, as Masons, must be “Master Builders.”

The Grand Master’s medallion shows a circle of stones held together with a keystone in each quadrant. The circle of stones represents the foundation of Freemasonry and the keystones represent the members and Masonic leaders in Pennsylvania who hold this fraternity together. It also shows the working tools of the Master Builders of Freemasonry in each keystone. In the middle with the square and compasses is the great light of Freemasonry.

Grand Master’s Pin

G

n ra

dM

e Ti s ’ t er as

12 GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason

2012 Appointed Floor Officers

SENIOR GRAND DEACON

JUNIOR GRAND DEACON

GRAND STEWARD

GRAND STEWARD

Herbert K. Swisher

Elwood C. Hocker, Jr.

Arthur K. Armstong

Bruce D. Hengst

GRAND MARSHAL

ASSIST. GRAND MARSHAL

Jon A. Fair

Russell W. Baker

Lodge No. 43, District 1

Lodge No. 521, District 52

Lodge No. 587, District 1

Lodge No. 405, District 5

Lodge No. 343, District 5

GRAND SWORD BEARER

Steven J. Smith

Lodge No. 371, District 19

Lodge No. 551, District 1

GRAND PURSUIVANT

GRAND TYLER

Martin L. Moses

Edward J. Stumm

SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE GRAND MASTER

Lodge No. 505, District 22

Lodge No. 309, District 5

Michael D. McKee

Lodge No. 506, District D

GR AND LODGE 13

January 2012

2012 Appointed Aides to the Grand Master

Thomas Gamon, IV, P.D.D.G.M. Lodge No. 595, District 40

Jay V. Smith

Lodge No. 551, District 1

Jesse Spence

Lodge No. 551, District 1

2012 Appointed District Deputy Grand Masters

John D. Cook

Lodge No. 143, District 3 Presentation: Feb. 1, 2012 Chambersburg

Wayne D. Frankenstein Lodge No. 429, District 26 Presentation: Jan. 12, 2012 Zelienople

John K. Jones

Lodge No. 378, District 35 Presentation: Jan. 17, 2012 Mt. Carmel

Robert D. Brink

Lodge No. 469, District 9 Presentation: Jan. 19, 2012 Coopersburg

Emilio V. Sforza

Lodge No. 617, District 27 Presentation: Jan. 23, 2012 Kittanning

Timothy L. Pletcher

Lodge No. 553, District 40 Presentation: Feb. 6, 2012 Royersford

David M. Howells, Jr.

Lodge No. 673, District 10 Presentation: Jan. 18, 2012 Allentown

David L. Moore

Lodge No. 237, District 29 Presentation: Jan. 24, 2012 Washington

Gregory S. Fair

Lodge No. 451, District 42 Presentation: Feb. 2, 2012 York

Jack H. Speece

Lodge No. 616, District 20 Presentation: Jan. 13, 2012 Altoona

Timothy L. Shumar

Lodge No. 346, District 30 Presentation: Feb. 4, 2012 Connellsville

David B. Firda

Lodge No. 583, District 49 Presentation: Jan. 21, 2012 McKeesport

14 GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason

HELP FOR OUR HEROES Brethren, you should be proud of all you’ve done through Help for Our Heroes.

Please continue to show your support for our military families by giving generously to this program. Let’s continue to let our heroes know that Pennsylvania Freemasons appreciate all they do to preserve our freedom!

Through Help for our Heroes, Pennsylvania Freemasons are showing support for our military families in many varied and meaningful ways. The military baby showers, coordinated with the March of Dimes, have been extremely successful, as you can see from the photographs and the heartfelt thanks shared by the families on the adjacent page.

To further show our appreciation during this holiday season, the Grand Lodge is contributing toward a party at Joint Base McGuire-Ft. DixLakehurst for military families with children

with special needs.

Grand Lodge has strengthened its partnership with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) as we work together to recruit and train volunteers to mentor veterans facing legal troubles in our statewide veterans courts.

Bro. Danny McCaffery, a veterans court volunteer, said, “I am excited to be a part of the expansion of the Pennsylvania Masonic ‘Help for our Heroes’ program and our new partnership between the Masons and veterans and their family members. It’s important that we strengthen this relationship to help our veterans and family members with legal issues. I encourage all of my brothers to join me in mentoring in veterans courts across the Commonwealth.”

Of course, we continue to provide calling cards to our men and women serving overseas.

Tech. Sgt. and Bro. Kevin Casciano, who received his 1st degree last month, recently made his first presentation, as a Mason, of 100 calling cards to our troops heading into the war zone from McGuire Air Force Base.

The Grand Lodge also recently sent cards for the 173rd Air National Guard Unit, a C-130 Special Operations Unit from Harrisburg.

Our efforts have not gone unnoticed or unrecognized. In recent months, the Grand Lodge has been presented with certificates of appreciation for our support of the military

from the March of Dimes for our participation and support of the baby showers, and from the VFW for our work on behalf of veterans.

In January, the Grand Lodge will participate in a ribbon cutting with physicians from Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals and the duPont Hospital for Children to celebrate the installation of the the telemedicine program the Grand Lodge has purchased to improve communications between physicians serving military families living at Dover Air Force Base.

GR AND LODGE 15

January 2012

Reflections on the “Mission: Healthy Baby Shower”

As shared by honorees at the November 2011 event at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst “Dear Grand Lodge of PA, I wanted to show my appreciation and thankfulness for your participation in the ‘Mission: Healthy Baby Educational Shower’ thrown on Nov. 6, 2011, by at least sending a thank you card. I was invited to this two days before the shower took place and had no idea what a wonderful experience it was going to be. I am so grateful for the amazing gifts we received for our soon-to-be little girl, Sophia Rose. It really has helped us out tremendously, and we can’t wait to use all the products and gift card.

As a military spouse who is far away from home, I never take for granted the kindness of strangers, but this event was above and beyond what I imagined. I told my family and friends about it and described it as an ‘Oprah moment,’ when she would surprise her guests with amazing gifts. It truly was a day I will never forget, and my husband and I can’t thank you all enough! Please share this with whomever was involved in making this day so special.

Sincerely, Leslie Faulkner Mom-to-Be” “Completely shocked, and a huge weight was lifted from our shoulders. Thank you!”

“…Absolutely amazing! A great way to start our journey into the world of parenting.”

“Thank you ALL for the AMAZING surprises! I am truly overjoyed with everything, so thankful, and absolutely amazed at the wonderful, wonderful things we all have received. Truly a stress reliever emotionally, and especially, financially. Cannot thank you (ALL of you) enough.”

“Today was incredible. I never could have imagined receiving so many gifts. The burden that was lifted financially from our shoulders is so great, and I am so thankful.

Thank you guys so much for everything you’ve done for us. I truly felt so special today...”

“We are so overwhelmingly grateful for everything that was prepared for us today.

Everything the Freemasons do every day, and the participation of the March of Dimes in ensuring new parents have the knowledge they need to have happy, healthy babies.

I was speechless today with the amount of gifts that were given away. Thank you.”

“I had never heard about a Military Baby Shower before. The experience was more than amazing. This is my first pregnancy,

and the classes were very informative. As far as the gifts, words cannot express how grateful I am for them. This takes a huge burden off my shoulders. Thank you so much for all you’ve done.”

“Thanks everyone involved who makes this fabulous event happen. I don’t even know where to begin. My husband and I are both in the military, and my husband is currently deployed. Neither my husband nor I know many people here because we just received a Permanent Change of Station here less than a year ago. All the gifts that we received lifted a huge financial and mental burden off (our) family. Thank you again!”

“Thank you all so much for your generosity and kindness! As a young military wife, I cannot say how blessed I feel to have been showered with all these amazing gifts.

All of you have lifted a financial burden off of our shoulders. I’m still in shock, but I know that our baby boy will be provided with everything he needs, because of your help. Thank you … I cannot say thank you enough for all of your love and support.”

16 GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason

“I’ve Heard the Term ‘Friend to Friend.’

What Does it Mean?”

Let’s face it: we’re a brotherhood of diverse men, in different phases of life, who share the same principles of and love for Freemasonry.

The truth is, there are good Masons who attend lodge infrequently and sometimes, due to the many other obligations in life (family, career, other volunteer commitments) may ponder why they continue to pay dues. They lose their appreciation for the values of Freemasonry – for the benefits, both tangible and intangible – that are theirs through membership.

As a consequence, these same brethren may feel at a loss to discuss the advantages and good works of Freemasonry when a curious relative, friend or neighbor asks, “Why should I be a Mason?”

The Friend to Friend program, often depicted with the clasping of hands in a gesture of friendship, helps good men – in our families,

in our neighborhoods, at work, in our places of worship, and yes, even in our own lodges – to learn about and appreciate the values, principles, character and benefits of Freemasonry.

The Friend to Friend program promotes reaching out to Pennsylvanians with the facts about Freemasonry: who we are, what we stand for, what we do and how we give help to a brother and to mankind.

This program, begun by R.W. Past Grand Master George H. Hohenshildt in 1994, will be revived to improve and expand the experience of Freemasonry … Friend to Friend.

How, you ask?

In many different facets, but most importantly, through the open houses Grand Master Jay W. Smith has challenged all lodges or districts to host throughout 2012. Welcoming the public to explore Freemasonry through these Friend to

Friend-themed events will increase the fraternity’s visibility and goodwill in our communities.

Through the use of educational materials, such as videos and brochures, and by teaming up with other Masonic bodies, youth groups and ladies’ organizations, the family of Freemasonry will benefit as a whole.

As a precurser to this program, the 1st Masonic District held district-wide open houses on Aug. 20, 2011. While all of the lodges offered refreshments, each made its event unique, with one featuring a flea market and many showing Masonic videos. The turnout for the events varied from lodge to lodge, but overall it was a very successful day for Freemasonry with a strong possibility of welcoming 15 new members into the fraternity.

Start planning now to make your local open house a success!

Why Reinforce the Mentor Program?

The mentor program was established to properly welcome every candidate and ensure he is properly instructed in the fundamentals of the Craft, its purposes and ideals.

Freemasonry is a great centuries-old fraternity with a rich history; an intricate system of laws; many purposes, ideals and obligations; a set of rights, privileges and duties; and a number of meaningful landmarks to be preserved. Trying to learn everything about the fraternity can appear to be an overwhelming prospect for new candidates and members.

That’s where the mentoring program helps, by

encouraging the candidate to grow in knowledge, involvement and confidence so that he, his family, his community and the lodge may benefit from and enjoy his membership.

As an experienced brother, the mentor’s responsibility is assuring that his assigned candidate is afforded Masonic information and experiences so he can best appreciate and understand his commitment as a Freemason. As a dedicated companion, the mentor leads his candidate throughout the first year of his Masonic journey, assisting in developing his best potential not only as a Mason, but as an individual in society.

Informed Masons derive the greatest rewards from Masonry and, in turn, contribute greatly through their active participation in the fraternity. A thorough understanding of the Craft will enlighten and motivate each new member to become an active participant ready to take his own proper place in the lodge’s work.

The mentor program is not intended to take the place of appointed instructors in the lodge who assist the candidate in preparing for advancement through the degrees. Instead, it is intended to lend more meaning to the lessons contained within each of the three degrees of Freemasonry and beyond.

R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith and his wife, Nancy, Invite You to Attend a

Masonic Reunion

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

HIGHLIGHTS

Information on services provided by the Masonic Villages of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania • Exciting updates on the Masonic Village at Dallas; the Sycamore Apartments, Sycamore Square Marketplace and new cottages at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown; and renovations to the nursing care residences at the Masonic Villages at Elizabethtown and Sewickley • Representatives from the Office of Aging to share information on local services • Free blood pressure screenings

SPECIAL HIGHLIGHT

Grand Master Smith 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 2012, or if you did not receive it when you were eligible in a previous year, please call (717) 367-1121 extension 33849. Please call to make your reservation by Jan. 27, 2011.

REUNION SCHEDULE

Thursday, March 15, 2012 Tampa Airport Marriott Hotel, Tampa Friday, March 16, 2012 Sahib Shrine Center (Sahib Temple), Sarasota Saturday, March 17, 2012 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.)

LODGE AND DISTRICT 17

January 2012

New Grotto Constituted to Serve South Central PA

On July 23, 2011, a new Grotto of the Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm was constituted in Elizabethtown, Pa. Taking the name Ubar Grotto, it will serve South Central Pennsylvania, with members already coming from Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon and York counties.

The Grotto was constituted by a team of Supreme Council and Grotto Association Officers from across the country. The ceremony was coordinated by Bro. Mike Trojan, Past Monarch of Islam Grotto, in Pittsburgh, and led by Bro. Aquinas “Moe” Evans, Grand Monarch, hailing from West Palm Beach, Fla. Assisting him was Bro. Otto Thiergart, Grand Chief Justice, of Florida; Bro. David Blythe, Grand Venerable Prophet, of Louisiana; and Bro. Bernie Mitchell, Past Grand Monarch, of Ohio. Representing the Pennsylvania Grotto Association was Bro. Bob Lorenz, 1st Vice President. The Ohio Grotto Association was also in attendance, thanks to the presence of Bro. Woody Sibly, President, of West Virginia.

The Friday evening prior to the ceremony, Grand Officers and other members of the new Grotto arranged a dinner with the Grand Monarch at Bube’s Brewery in Mount Joy, Pa., in a real-life grotto room known as “the Catacombs.”

The ceremonies took place in the lodge room at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.

The event started at 2 p.m., with an initiation of the new Prophets. Ubar transferred four

members, who were previously initiated into Delco Grotto, but their numbers swelled as 24 new Prophets were greeted at this session!

The ladies, who were just wrapping up their own reception, were then invited up to the lodge room to witness the Institution and Constitution. The ceremonial team installed Bro. Seth Anthony as the Charter Monarch, Bro. George Hindson as the Charter Chief Justice and Bro. Tim Settlemyer as the Charter Master of Ceremonies.

Following the installation, Bro. Settlemyer gave an oration on the history of the lost city of Ubar, a real place, now buried in the sands of Oman. The Charter Monarch started his remarks by announcing that Bro. Evans had been elected to Honorary Membership for Life in Ubar Grotto and presented him with his very own Ubar fez. Bro. Anthony then delivered his installation speech, challenging the Supreme Council to take a fresh look at what Grotto is and to trust the new, young members to do what is right for the organization.

Bro. Evans thanked the new Grotto members for all their hard work and expressed his appreciation to the group. He then created Bro. Anthony a District Deputy of the Supreme Council and tasked him to help invigorate the Grotto program wherever he travels

With a long day of ceremonies behind them, the group retired, changed into comfortable clothes and headed to Flavers Restaurant in Elizabethtown. There the group indulged in a Mediterranean feast, fun and song, followed by fellowship out on the deck.

The new Grotto is already very visible with its own website and Facebook group, and it even recruited several new members through targeted Facebook marketing. You can see more pictures and read all of the remarks given by the new Grotto officers at the Ubar Grotto website, http://ubargrotto.com, and you can also keep up with weekly posts about Ubar Grotto on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ubargrotto.

Photos (left): All the new officers and members of Ubar Grotto and (right): The new black fez made exclusively for Ubar Grotto.

18 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason

Real Men Wear Pink to Support Breast Cancer Awareness

In recognition of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, members of Mount Moriah Lodge No. 300, Huntingdon, wore pink neckties to their Stated Meeting on Oct. 10, 2011. This was also Ladies Night, so members and guests enjoyed a nice dinner in the social hall prior to the meeting.

Bro. Todd E. Dobson, W.M., organized a

fund raiser through the sale of pink neckties and pins to members and friends, which raised $1,570. The funds were donated to J. C. Blair Memorial Hospital, Huntingdon, in honor of Mrs. Deborah Shultz, lady of Bro. Ralph L. Shultz, P.M., and to recognize her struggle with breast cancer.

Those present for the check presentation

included: Center right: Bro. Todd E. Dobson, W.M.; Mrs. Tammy Dobson; and Dr. Maria Pettinger, Chief of Staff of J. C. Blair Memorial Hospital. Center left: Mrs. Deborah Shultz; Bro. Ralph L. Shultz, P.M.; and Mrs. Marsha Hartman, Executive Director of the J.C. Blair Memorial Hospital Foundation.

Celebrating 70 Years of Membership At the Sept. 10, 2011, Stated Meeting of Bedford Lodge No. 320, District Deputy Grand Master Robert C. Snyder II had the honor of presenting Bro. Ray Fries with his 70-Year Masonic Service Emblem.

Bro. Ray joined Freemasonry at the age of 21 in 1940 when the nation was finally feeling some relief from the Great Depression, but was preparing to enter World War II. Bro. Ray was raised a Master Mason in Midway Lodge No. 185, Saint Paul, Minn., and transferred his membership to Bedford Lodge in 1989 when he moved there. While working for Honeywell Corporation, Bro. Ray traveled frequently, which provided him the opportunity to visit lodges in different parts of the country. He was also a semi-pro baseball player, pitching for $5 per game. He commented that he has very much enjoyed Freemasonry over the years, and even though it has been 71 years since he joined, the time has gone quickly.

Left-right: Bro. Donald E. Stutzman, P.M., S.W., acting W.M. of Bedford Lodge No. 320, along with Bro. Raymond S. Fries, also of Bedford Lodge, and Bro. Robert C. Snyder II, District Deputy Grand Master of the 34th Masonic District.

LODGE AND DISTRICT 19

January 2012

A Meeting Of Historic Proportions On Sept. 12, 2011, the officers and brethren of St. Alban Lodge, No. 529, Philadelphia, gathered at City Tavern, 138 S. 2nd St., Philadelphia, the first known meeting place for the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. In addition to holding their Stated Meeting in the historic location, the brethren celebrated several anniversaries the year 2011 brought to Freemasonry and the nation: the 280th anniversary of the founding of the first Grand Lodge in Pennsylvania (1731), the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the Ancient Pennsylvania Grand Lodge (1761), and the 230th Anniversary of the Battle of Yorktown (1781), which was the last major battle in our nation’s struggle for independence. While the 54 brethren gathered to celebrate these historic moments, the theme for the evening was the 225th Celebration of the Independence of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania from the Grand Lodge of England (Sept. 25, 1786).

Keeping with the 18th Century theme, the officers dressed in proper period attire and assembled for the purposes of brotherly love and affection as well as the conferral of a Master Mason’s degree. After being seated, they were greeted by President Bro. George Washington, (as portrayed by Bro. Dean Malissa, Concordia Lodge No. 67, Jenkintown), who wore a beautiful Masonic apron for the occasion. After a few introductory remarks by Bro. Washington, the brethren enjoyed an outstanding four-course dinner.

In true Masonic fashion, three toasts were offered: one for Bro. Washington, one for the Battle of Yorktown and one for the night’s independence celebration.

Following the sumptuous feast, the brethren were regaled by a talk about the “current” state our new nation and its independence by Bro. Washington. His talk launched the night back to those early days of the fraternity and our nation, where our brethren met by candlelight and in front of

roaring fires. Afterward, the room was tyled and Bro. Anthony J. Dintino, III, W.M., conferred the Master Mason degree on Bro. Gary T. Hanley. Both brothers are members of the 4th Legionary Corps, a Revolutionary War living history unit, and were clad in their “greens” signifying them as dragoons, or light cavalry, for the Continental forces.

After a short meeting of lodge business, the evening ended with many smiles and wonderful memories. Between the ambiance of City Tavern and Bro. Malissa’s inspirational words, the brethren truly felt they had been sent back to Old Philadelphia circa 1786, in those first few years following the American Revolution when the future seemed bright and uncertain. Walking outside City Tavern to the hustle and bustle of 2011 seemed almost surreal. Just a few hours prior, the brethren of St. Alban Lodge No. 529 had witnessed, first

hand, the birth of our Independent Grand Lodge. Huzzah!

Photo of officers of St. Alban Lodge: Front row, left-right: Bros. Robert M. Stauffer, P.M., Secretary; William C. Doty, P.M., Acting S.W.; Gary T. Hanley, Candidate; (middle) Dean R. Malissa (as Bro. George Washington) Concordia Lodge No. 67, Jenkintown; Anthony J. Dintino, W.M.; Dasse G. Yobo, S.M.C.; and Patrick K. Delaney, Acting Pursuivant. Back row, left-right: Bros. William M. Roosevelt, P.M., Guide; Robert H. Swan; Thomas W. Jacobson, S.D.; Alan B. Ozer, J.M.C.; Richard T. Bobbe, J.W.; and Jerald A. Brown, J.D.

Community Lodge Lives Up to Its Name Community Lodge No. 744, Broomall, recently held a successful preventative stroke screening program as an outreach to the community. Bro. William R. Bellamy, P.M., said the program was well attended. A testing team out of Baltimore, Md., was selected to provide the Life Line Screening®, a non-

invasive, painless ultrasound technique to view the plaque buildup in a person’s arteries.

According to the National Stroke Association, 80 percent of strokes can be prevented. In the United States, stroke is the third leading cause of death (behind heart disease and cancer), killing about 137,000

people each year. It is the leading cause of serious, long-term adult disability.

Members of Community Lodge are also active in the local fire and EMS services, Boy Scouts and are FCC Licensed Amateur Radio operators, a group known for its emergency assistance.

20 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason

36th Masonic District Visits Masonic Village

On Sept. 19, 2011, 36 brethren and ladies from the 36th Masonic District traveled by bus from Delaware County to visit the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown for the fourth consecutive year. They enjoyed dinner in the Brossman Ballroom with 26 brethren and

ladies who reside at the retirement community.

Following dinner, the group adjourned to the Deike Auditorium for a presentation of “The Last Full Measure” about Abraham Lincoln performed by representatives of the Valley of Harrisburg and hosted by Abraham

C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown.

The trip was sponsored and arranged by George Bartram Paul Sand Lodge No. 298, Springfield.

Perseverance Lodge Gives 3rd Degree to Public Third Degree Chili, That Is!

On Sept. 3, Perseverance Lodge No. 21, Harrisburg, fielded its “Third Degree Chili Team” and competed in the Pennsylvania

Chili Cook Off. The annual event is a part of the Labor Day Kipona Festival held on Harrisburg’s downtown waterfront. It was a great opportunity as brothers, officers and Pennsylvania Freemasons to showcase their brotherhood to the Central Pennsylvania community while enjoying their own fellowship.

The team also reached out to any and all Freemasons who happened to pass by its booth and asked them to sign its team banner in a public show of support for Freemasonry, the lodge and its chili team in particular.

Photos: (left) The chili team, left-right: Bros. Colin H. Blair; David S. Casher; Doug R. Harms, P.M.; and Tracy A. Bitner, W.M. (bottom) Governor Tom Corbett and his wife, Susan, (right) enjoy some chili provided by Bros. Adam G. Klein and Ken R. Harms, P.M.

Fraternal Support Pours in to Quell Storm Damage

During the storms of September 2011 that followed hurricane Irene, Bro. David J. Bittner, Warren Lodge No. 310, Collegeville, and his family suffered a devastating loss. Their

home was flooded up to the first floor, and there was a huge hole in their basement wall.

After the waters receded, they discovered the furnace, air conditioning unit, washer, dryer, water heater and all personal possessions stored in the basement, including all the clothes that had been there for laundering, had been ruined. Both vehicles were completely flooded and were a total loss. All their landscaping will need to be removed and replaced due to a fuel oil storage facility leaking into the surrounding soil. Since Bro. Bittner does not live in a flood plain or even near water, he was not required to have flood insurance, so

he did not have it.

Bro. Matthew L. Kuhnert, J.W., spearheaded an effort to raise funds for Bro. Bittner through an appeal he sent to all the lodges in the Sixth Masonic District. The brethren of the district responded in noble fashion and donated more than $5,000. In addition, the brethren of the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill donated clothing that they were saving for their annual fund raiser. Other brothers donated time and labor to help make repairs, and one brother even donated a new water heater. They truly proved what Freemasonry stands for.

LODGE AND DISTRICT 21

January 2012

Confederation of Union Generals

Masonic brethren from Pennsylvania, Maryland, Florida and Oregon attended a recent gathering of the Confederation of Union Generals (COUG) at Old Bedford Village, Bedford, Pa. Each of these brothers portrays a Union officer who fought during the American Civil War. First and foremost historians, each COUG member researches “his” officer for many months or years before even taking the portrayal public and at his own expense. Members do not request to be paid, but do their presentations out of their love for history and the knowledge they can share with the public.

According to the COUG website, the organization’s mission is “to authentically portray historical figures from the American Civil War era in order to educate the public and

honor the service and sacrifice of the persons so portrayed; to aid and promote efforts to preserve the hallowed ground upon which the conflict was waged; and to communicate and celebrate the history of the period, thereby preserving our common heritage.”

Left-right: Bro. Joseph Kukula, Garfield Lodge No. 559, Du Bois, Pa., portraying Brig. Gen. Alexander Hays, who was a member of Allegheny Lodge No. 223, Pa.; Bro. Mike Seeley, Winter Park Lodge No. 239, Longwood, Fla., portraying Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, who was a member of Williamette Lodge No. 2, Portland, Ore.; Bro. Michael Riley, Lodge No. 43, Lancaster, Pa., portraying Maj. Gen. John F. Reynolds; Bro. John L. Warsing, P.M., Moshannon Lodge No. 391, Philipsburg, Pa., portraying Major Jonathan Letterman,

Medical Director of the Army of the Potomac; Bro. Ken Kickerbocker, Winter Park Lodge No. 239, Longwood, Fla., portraying Brig. Gen. James A. Garfield, P.M., Pentalpha Lodge No. 23, Columbia, Ohio, who later became President of the United States; Bro. Joseph Funk, Mount Vernon Lodge No. 151, Md., portraying Maj. Gen. Godfrey Weitzel, USV; Bro. Daniel Moran, Patmos Lodge No. 348, Hanover, Pa., portraying Brig. Gen. John Rawlins, USA, who later became a member of Lodge No. 273, Galena, Ill.; and Bro. William Fuza, Seaport Lodge No. 7, Cannon Beach, Ore., portraying Maj. Gen. Alfred Pleasonton, USV, Franklin Lodge No. 134, Philadelphia.

Supporting Those Who Served Us Labor Day 2011 saw the partial arrival of the anticipated ground breaking ceremony for the Lower Makefield Veterans Square Memorial. Due to inclement weather, the official ground breaking was delayed until Veterans Day, but the planned celebration was still able to proceed, due in part to the continued support and sponsorship of Newtown Lodge No. 427, Woodside.

The event was held at the Lower Bucks Masonic Hall adjacent to the planned Veterans

Square at the intersection of Edgewood and Heacock Roads, Lower Makefield. The large crowd listened to a concert and several speakers, which included Pennsylvania Representative for the 31st District Bro. Steve Santarsiero, member of Newtown Lodge No. 427, and representatives from the Lower Makefield Veteran Square Committee. The event raised almost $5,000 for the memorial.

22 FREEMASON

Pennsylvania Freemason

A Legacy of Generosity

“The ultimate test of man’s conscience may be his willingness to sacrifice something today for future generations whose words of thanks will not be heard.”

-Gaylord Nelson, politician and Earth Day founder Bro. Frank Eiler, Reading Lodge No. 549, West Reading, and his wife, Lois, value their time and life together. While they focus on enjoying today and helping others as they can, they realize that once they pass away, the needs of the world will linger.

“It’s not what we do in our time here, but the legacy we leave behind,” Bro. Frank said. “Hopefully, our legacy will, in part, be our support of the Masonic Charities.”

The Eilers have chosen to give to the Masonic Charities through a bequest because they have no children. “This enables us to choose to support organizations such as the Masonic Charities and others,” Bro. Frank said. “It is a well-run organization, and we know it will use the money properly.”

The Eilers are making the best of their retirement. They spend November through May in Florida where their days are filled with tennis, ballroom dancing, reading and relaxing.

Eventually, they look forward to moving to the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Such a lifestyle is well deserved after years of hard work and service to our country.

As a high school student, Bro. Frank found great success at science fairs. In addition to earning awards, his interest and skills earned him a scholarship to Lebanon Valley College where he studied chemistry. After graduation, he worked for the Food and Drug Administration, Glidden-SCM and Wyeth Laboratories. He also earned an MBA from Temple University while at Wyeth.

Bro. Frank joined the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. He performed his duties as a Hospital Corpsman, assigned to a Naval Medical Research Institute project in Da Nang, Vietnam. He later served with the U.S. Marine Corps. After 21 years of service, he retired as a chief petty officer.

After returning from Vietnam, Bro. Frank signed up for ballroom dancing lessons at a local YMCA. “I wanted to learn some social skills; change my mode of operations after serving overseas,” he said. The lessons put a swing in his step in more ways than one – they introduced him to a young woman named Lois who later became his wife. The two have been ballroom dancing ever since.

Another initiative Bro. Frank took upon his return home was becoming a Mason. His father was a Mason, and as an Eagle Scout, Bro. Frank was exposed to the good values of his leaders, many of whom were Masons and World War II veterans. He belongs to several appendant Masonic bodies, including Reading Royal Arch Chapter No. 152, where he served as High Priest.

“We take good men and make them better,” Bro. Frank said. “The fraternity instills a moral code and tradition in men.”

Outside of the military, Bro. Frank spent much of his career as a chemist with the pharmaceutical company Wyeth (now part of Pfizer), and retired in 2008. Lois taught French for many years. As schools began phasing out foreign languages, she started a career in the private sector working at Hub Manufacturing in inventory control and later at Vanguard Modular Building Systems as a financial analyst, where she works part-time.

Over the last 35 years, the Eilers have travelled to France, Italy and Switzerland, and they have sailed the Chesapeake Bay. Bro. Frank served as Commodore of the

Northeast Yacht Club. They recently decided to sell their sailboat to focus on other hobbies and interests.

Another of their interests is helping others. As members of the Masonic Charities’ Franklin Legacy Society, the Eilers are helping to ensure the vital mission of the Masonic Charities will be available for the benefit of future generations.

“We hope to be residents [of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown] ourselves at some point, so we want to support its mission,” Bro. Frank said. “Freemasonry helps protect widows and orphans, and my father was an orphan, so I have a personal attachment to this cause. Lois, through her teaching, also has strong feelings toward helping children.

We want to support these efforts through our giving.”

FREEMASON 23

January 2012

The Marcellus Shale Connection Learn more before you take the next step!

In the past several years, Pennsylvania has become a flash point for natural gas drilling using a new technology called fracking.

Although controversial due to the detrimental effects it can impose on the local environment, this form of drilling has resulted in the many mineral rights owners in the Marcellus Shale region being approached by oil and gas owners to lease their mineral rights for the purpose of drilling for natural gas.

Because many members of the fraternity and their families throughout Pennsylvania are property owners of mineral rights within the Marcellus Shale region, the Masonic Villages and the Masonic Charities of the R. W. Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania have launched a new program to educate members, when requested, on the steps to follow in negotiating with a company for the leasing of mineral rights and other pertinent agreements.

The Masonic Villages is an owner of numerous oil and gas interests in Oklahoma and Texas derived from gifts it has received over the past 40 years. As a result, the Masonic Villages has retained oil and gas attorneys in Fort Worth, Texas, and landmen working in Texas and Oklahoma to advise us on lease options and how to maximize property protections, royalty payments and bonus money. Where leases have already been entered into, the Masonic Villages has experience in renegotiating such leases at the end of their terms.

The Office of Gift Planning also has experience in working with individuals who are considering making gifts of mineral interests to the Masonic Charities. More importantly, we have experience in establishing a charitable trust with such mineral interests which could provide a source of income for mineral rights owners and their families for years to come. A charitable trust provides a substantial tax advantage in return for the Masonic Charities receiving the mineral interests at some future time.

In the spring of 2012, the Office of Gift Planning staff and its advisors will be conducting several workshops in the Marcellus Shale region of Pennsylvania on what critical steps to take if you are approached by a landman, or similar individual, about leasing your mineral rights. If you are interested in attending one of these workshops, please call us at (800) 599-6454. We will endeavor to schedule workshops in areas where we have the most interest.

If you are interested in leasing your mineral rights or have already leased your mineral rights, we urge you to contact the staff at the Office of Gift Planning to learn more about options available to you. Call (800) 599-6454 and ask to speak to the staff person in charge of handling our Mineral Rights Leases.

Please be aware that the educational information provided to you by the Masonic

Call the Office of Gift Planning at (800) 599-6454 for information or to request to attend an upcoming workshop.

Villages and the Masonic Charities are complimentary, but are not intended to be a substitute for retention of a professional advisor to assist you in the mineral rights leasing process.

The Masonic Villages is also a member of the National Association of Royalty Owners and its local chapters in Pennsylvania, Oklahoma and Texas.

24 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason

DeMolays Provide Service With a Smile The brotherhood of the Masonic fraternity is well known, but that same feeling of fraternity exists just as strongly in DeMolay.

Recently, Bro. Richard Fitzsimmons, District Deputy Grand Master of the 24th Masonic District and a Deputy Executive Officer for Pennsylvania DeMolay, contacted Bro. Seth Anthony at the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation office with a request for assistance for a DeMolay brother.

He said that in less than 24 hours, Bro. Ben Koncewicz, his wife, Tracy, and their son would be moving to Harrisburg for work. Bro. Koncewicz didn’t know anybody in Harrisburg and was afraid that he was going to have to unload all of his personal effects by himself

unless he could find some help.

Always willing to assist a brother in need, Bro. Seth recruited two Pennsylvania DeMolay State Officers to assist with the move: Bros.

Matt Blaisdell, State Master Councilor, and Anthony Kallhoff, State Scribe.

The team arrived at the Konecwicz’s new residence and immediately got to work helping the family move in.

In less than three hours, the U-Haul truck was emptied and the family was ready to get settled. Helping a friend move is never high on anybody’s list of fun activities, but helping a brother in a time of need always makes for a great day!

Scholarship Funds Encourage Youth to Succeed The Educational Endowment Fund Committee of the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation (PMYF) will accept scholarship applications until March 15, 2012. The Masonic Scholarship Resource Guide and applications are available at www.pmyf.org. Those eligible to receive the scholarship awards include young people who have a Masonic relative, or who are members of a Masonic-sponsored youth group.

Many deserving students apply, but these competitive awards are limited to

the income from the Grand Lodge Higher Education Fund and the PMYF Educational Endowment Fund, which only grows through YOUR contributions.

Front row, left-right: Bro. Travis L .Good, W.M., Adams Lodge No. 319; Leanne Kyle; and Bro. Gregory L. Latchford, D.D.G.M.-19th District.

Back row, left-right: Bros. Derek P. Sweger, J.W.; Barry E. Enck, P.M., Treasurer; W. Michael Greaney, P.M., Secretary; Troy G. Latchford, S.D.; and Daniel L. Adair, S.W.

Jobies Receive Support for Activities & HIKE On Aug. 24, 2011, several senior residents and Executive Director Bro. Nicholas Mahler of the Golden Living Center, Camp Hill, made a presentation of $1,000 to Job’s Daughters Bethel No. 19, Mechanicsburg. The donation aids the bethel in its activities and also supports their charity, the Hearing Impaired Kids Endowment (HIKE) Fund, which purchases hearing assistive devices for hearing impaired children. Representative Glen R. Grell was also present for this community initiative.

Through the HIKE fund, Job’s Daughters has embraced the needs of youth, from birth to age 20, with hearing impairments. The HIKE Fund, Inc., has provided children with hearing assistive devices since 1986, including: hearing aids, FM systems, closed caption converters, tactile units, alerting systems and specialized sports equipment.

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION 25

January 2012

Masons Changing the Lives of Youth

An Interview with Bro. Thom Stecher, Program Developer and Director

Bro. Thom Stecher, Thomson Lodge No. 340, Paoli, founded Thom Stecher & Associates to empower students, support educators and encourage parents to achieve their highest level of potential and build healthy communities. One of Bro. Thom’s many programs is the Masonic LifeSkills Conference.

What inspired you to develop the LifeSkills concept?

In 1989, I read an article by then-Grand Master Robert L. Dluge, Jr. The article focused on his beliefs that our children needed more skills to be successful in life. I said to myself, “We can do that!” It is a core belief of mine that we all need skills of respect for self and others; responsibility for everything we think, feel, say and do; and healthy relationships to be successful in life.

When you created the LifeSkills concept, what made you so certain that it was the correct formula for a successful program?

Since 1972, I have been absorbed as an educator in the research, practices and experiences of kindergarten through 12th grade social emotional learning, character education and team and community building. I knew from experience as a teacher, counselor and state administrator that young people needed to develop skills to cope with the changes in their lives. Research clearly indicates that when we address the social and emotional needs of students, their academic skills increase, attendance improves, behavior improves, performance on standardized tests improves and their prospects for constructive employment increase.

What criteria do you deem most important in selecting your conference staff members?

My first priority is to select a staff that loves children, particularly adolescents. The staff must be kind, caring, willing to work very hard and have lots of energy. They must be role models and mentors with a servant leadership

mentality. The staff cares about helping children grow to be the best that they can be, rather than focusing on awards and accolades. The primary staff is drawn from education, counseling and psychology professionals. Our volunteers are often affiliated with Masonic organizations, as well as education and human services. Our counselors in training are young adults who have a passion for service and whose goals are in education and human services.

What are the strengths of this program? If it has a weakness, what is it?

The primary strength of the program is the dedicated staff of caring professionals and volunteers. One strength that I am most proud of is our ability to serve a part of the “special needs” population. This past year, our conference had students with cerebral palsy, blindness, ADHD, autism, Asperger’s syndrome and mental health concerns. Our population also represents a great many races and religions.

My only concern is that we only have one conference a year. After 12 years, so many students want to participate beyond the twoyear limit. I wish we could find the resources to fulfill this need.

Can you relate one or two individual LifeSkills success stories that particularly affected you?

Our largest success is that school administrators, teachers and students leave the LifeSkills Conference with an experience and a plan of action to make positive change in their school buildings and districts. I personally have been involved with schools that have used our program and philosophy as the springboard to start leadership programs, mentoring programs, anti-bullying programs, service learning programs and character education programs. There are countless stories of children’s lives being transformed during this week. On a very personal note, to have mothers, fathers and grandparents come to me at the end of the conference and tell me that their child has completely changed

for the better because of the Masonic LifeSkills Conference is a very humbling experience.

This year, on a Wednesday night after a large 130-person community building activity where everyone succeeded by helping each other, I watched two children walk into Memorial Hall together, hand in hand, one child with cerebral palsy the other with fetal alcohol syndrome, smiling from ear to ear knowing that they were no longer just what people had labeled them to be. Instead, they knew that they were respected, responsible members of our Masonic LifeSkills community.

Having just completed the 12th consecutive conference, what do you envision for its future?

I hope we can continue to grow as we expand through Pennsylvania and the midAtlantic states. I hope we can continue to serve young leaders, including those with special needs.

I hope our program can grow in Pennsylvania and beyond. My vision for the next 10 years is to positively impact every school district in Pennsylvania through our Masonic LifeSkills philosophy.

How can a lodge or an individual Mason become involved in the program?

Sponsoring the costs of children is our greatest need. The Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation (PMYF) is very generous and sponsors 50 percent of the individual cost for each first-time participant and 20 percent of the cost for a repeater, but many cannot afford to attend without help.

If you would like to volunteer to work this conference and are willing to submit to a criminal background screening and provide references, please contact Bro. Tom Labagh or Amy Nace at the PMYF office at (800) 266-8424, ext. 2. Or, feel free to contact me at thom@thomstecher.com or view my website at www.thomstecher.com to see how we can work together to help young people.

26 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

Datestone Ceremony Celebrates Vision, Accomplishment & Leadership

In celebration of the great work accomplished during the construction of the Masonic Village at Sewickley’s new nursing center, now called the Sturgeon Health Care Center, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania held a date stone ceremony on Thursday, Nov. 3. The event recognized Masons whose vision culminated in the impressive 64,000 square foot addition and dedicated the building to the ideals of Freemasonry and to the Masonic Villages’ Mission of Love.

At the beginning of the ceremony, the Grand Lodge recognized Bro. James L. Ernette, R.W.P.G.M., for his leadership in founding the Masonic Village at Sewickley on June 1, 1999, and the dream, vision and shared Mission of Love Freemasonry realized through the village since then. A plaque will hang in his honor.

The date stone ceremony is an ancient and symbolic ceremony performed during the construction of a building. The ceremony has remained the same since President and Bro. George Washington laid the cornerstone of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 18, 1793.

In Sewickley, after paying homage to our nation and prayer, Bro. Kim W. Jeffreys, P.D.D.G.M., Chairman of the Building Committee, presented the prepared date stone to then-R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon. R.W. Grand Treasurer Jeffrey W. Coy placed the memorabilia and gifts in the date stone, to be permanently kept in the building’s outer wall, before R. W. Grand Secretary Mark A. Haines read a list of the articles deposited, which included the Grand Master’s medallion and lapel pin, Mrs. Joan Sturgeon’s ladies’ pin, “Ahiman Rezon,” date

stone ceremony program, 2010 and 2011 issues of “The Pennsylvania Freemason,” local newspapers and other timely pieces.

Then-R.W. Junior Grand Warden Raymond T. Dietz and then-R.W. Senior Grand Warden Robert J. Bateman assisted then-R.W. Deputy Grand Master Jay W. Smith in determining that the date stone was plumb, level, square and ready to be ceremonially laid by then-Grand Master Sturgeon. He spread cement on the stone as a symbolic gesture of spreading brotherly love. This was doubly symbolic as it represented the spreading of the Mission of Love provided by the Masonic Villages. With three strikes of the gavel upon the stone, the Grand Master set the date stone.

“I, Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W. Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania, and Masonic jurisdiction thereunto belonging, declare this date stone to be plumb, level and square and so duly laid according to the ancient usages, customs and landmarks of Freemasonry, and may the Great Architect of Heaven and Earth bless the work here begun and make it memorable to the latest generations,” the Grand Master said.

Corn, wine and oil were then poured on the date stone with supplication that the Sturgeon Health Care Center may be showered with blessings, that those within may be kept safe and prosper in their labors, and that peace should unify the nations of the earth through the work done in the community.

After Bro. Stephen Burdick, Titusville Lodge No. 754, contractor with Weber Murphy Fox, Inc., and James Mehaffey, architect with RLPS Architects, surrendered the plans for the nursing center, Grand Marshal Jon A. Fair declared the date stone laid. It was not until after laying the date stone that then-Grand Master Sturgeon learned that the Committee on Masonic Homes had voted to name the nursing community in his honor for his dedication to supporting the project during his term.

As Chairman of the Committee on Masonic Homes, Bro. Coy said, “For your untiring efforts at the rebuilding of our beloved fraternity; for your inspiring Renaissance at bringing meaningful changes to our craft; for your example of firm leadership; for your commitment to all of our brothers; and for being the Grand Master in recent times to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for our Masonic Villages; now, therefore, the Committee of Masonic Home’s acting unanimously, does hereby name this building the “Sturgeon Health Care Center at Masonic Village at Sewickley.”

The two new wings of the Sturgeon Health Care Center are expected to be completed by the end of March 2012, after which renovations to the pre-existing 43,000 square foot building will begin.

The final project will cost approximately $20 million.

MASONIC VILL AGES 27

January 2012

MASSING of the COLORS A Celebration of Service at Masonic Village

6,530 American Flags Displayed in Honor of Veterans A memorial to each soldier who has died in combat since 9/11, the “Massing of the Colors,” was on display from Nov. 4 - 14, 2011, in the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s Veterans Grove. The public was invited to walk through and view the flag display at their leisure, which was lit beautifully for nighttime viewing.

Special events surrounding the display included a Veterans Day Program on Nov. 11 at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown featuring the Navy Club Band of Lancaster County-Ship No. 166, Elizabethtown Mayor Bro. Chuck Mummert and Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown. The speaker was Col. Donna N. Hershey, U.S. Army Reserves, Commander of the 307th Medical Brigade, Blacklick, Ohio, and Director of Care and Outpatient Services for the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.

The “Massing of the Colors” is a memorial created by the National Sojourners-Harrisburg Chapter No. 76, and was set up by volunteers from Masonic Village, the Sojourners, the Navy Club of Lancaster County-Ship No. 166 and the community. The National Sojourners is a Masonic organization of military members which aims to foster appreciation of the American heritage of freedom of life, liberty, religion and free expression. Funds for the flags come from donations and a private grant. It was

first displayed on Memorial Day 2004 at the Zembo Shrine Center in Harrisburg to commemorate the deaths of those who have served our country in the War on Terrorism.

“It was our intent to educate people through this memorial to realize how many people are actually giving their lives in service to their country in this war,” said Bro. David Broy, memorial chairman and member of William S. Snyder Lodge No. 756, Harrisburg. “Each year it means more to all of us to think about the sacrifice of these individuals.”

A video detailing the memorial and other special events is available at www.masonicvillagespa.org/elizabethtown

(scroll down) or by clicking on the video link at www.facebook.com/masonicvillages.

Along with the 6,530 flags from the “Massing of the Colors” display, 131 large and 51 small American flags from the “PawPrints for Pennsylvania Patriots Program” was also on display. Through this program, The Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, Order of the Eastern Star, recently presented a check to Susquehanna Service Dogs for $125,702.59 to provide service dogs for veterans returning home with combat injuries. Supporters purchased flags in memory or honor of a loved one, and the flags have been displayed at the Masonic Villages across the state throughout the last year.

28 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

Why Would You Move Anywhere Else? (Part 2)

Bro. Chris Reynolds shows off his craftsmanship at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill The Masonic Villages were created by Masons to provide the highest quality services, so why would you move anywhere else? The stories of contentment and peace of mind are only limited by the number of residents – more than 2,600 throughout Pennsylvania – so we had to share a few more stories.

Florida Can’t Hold a Candle to Dallas

Bro. Marvin Cunningham Sr., R.W. Past Grand Master, Warren Lodge No. 310, Collegeville, and his wife, Rosalie, were two of the first people to move into a villa at the Masonic Village at Dallas when it opened in 2007.

The campus boasts 38 villas and 45 apartments for retirement living on the grounds of the Irem Country Club and Golf Course, a gem of Northeast Pennsylvania. Since the Cunninghams moved to Masonic Village at Dallas, a new clubhouse was constructed, offering 26,868 square feet of additional amenities.

In addition to the stunning golf course, the Irem Country Club’s restaurant and pub provide dining options for days when residents do not feel like cooking or want to go out with friends. Entertainment and special events at the Irem Country Club, such as Brunch with the Nittany Lion, provide a variety of activities in which residents can indulge with friends.

The Grand Ballroom and various meeting rooms provide spaces for personal, Masonic and community events.

“I’ve been partial to the retirement community at the Masonic Villages. I watched it grow from the beginning. It meets all the criteria that a person looking for a retirement

community wants or needs,” Bro. Cunningham said. “We’re very comfortable here. We participate in social affairs in the community as well as at the Masonic Village at our discretion.”

Atop the Endless Mountains Region, this area is also home to many parks and hiking trails. Its rich coal mining and locomotive history merges with modern culture to offer intriguing museums, tours and attractions. Five colleges and universities located nearby provide ample opportunities for lifelong learning courses, intergenerational programs, cultural exhibits and entertainment. Misericordia University, adjacent to the Masonic Village at Dallas, offers residents special rates for events and access to its library, swimming pool and fitness center.

Beyond the various floor plans, including one- and two-bedroom apartments and twobedroom and two-bedroom/den villas, villa residents now have upgrade options, including hardwood flooring, crown molding, granite countertops and much more. A new rental option for apartments, created in 2009, became a popular choice, making an apartment waiting list necessary.

Masonic Village at Dallas can even make snow birds rethink their lifestyles. As frequent visitors to Florida before moving to the Masonic Village at Dallas, the Cunninghams aren’t bothered by snow during the winter. “Everything is more or less taken care of for you. In the winter time, your snow is removed … No matter how much it snows, you can drive out of your driveway and get on with your day. It’s a nice lifestyle … The back mountain is a great place to retire,” Bro. Cunningham said.

To learn more about why people are moving to the Masonic Village at Dallas instead of Florida, call (866) 851-4243. Or, plan to attend an Open House on March 13.

Jumping on the Train in Elizabethtown

Bro. Ray Horn, Mt. Lebanon Lodge No. 226, Hershey, and his wife, Pat, live in the retirement living cottages at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, but they have not jumped on the retirement train, yet. Pat works for the Department of Labor and Industry in Harrisburg.

She often walks to the Amtrak station next to campus and rides the train 20 minutes to and from work. Ray is a professor and administrator at Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia.

With careers that keep them busy, the Horns wanted a simple lifestyle at home. “Many

individuals in our parents’ generation made the move [to a retirement community] too late under difficult circumstances and either had very difficult transitions or transitioned too late to enjoy the amenities. Therefore, we chose to join the community in our early 60s and truly have and enjoy golden years,” the Horns said.

They like gardening, pinochle, Mahjong and swimming in the pools on campus. Pat is particularly fond of participating in Red Hat Society activities and taking day trips. They appreciate that if they want to travel, their house will be taken care of. Even while at home, they don’t have to worry about snow removal, yard work, home repairs, maintenance of their furnished appliances or even cooking.

Masonic Village takes care of their needs, but the Horns still get to make all of the decisions that are important to them: which of the six restaurants to dine in when they don’t want to cook, what activities to participate in, how the house is cleaned, how the yard is landscaped and the list goes on.

They also have security knowing that if an unexpected life event occurs and one or both of them need additional services, they are readily available through personal care, nursing services, home care, rehabilitation services and hospice at the Masonic Village.

“We wanted to be in a top tier retirement community, especially one that we know will always be top tier … We are constantly seeing improvements being made to keep pace with the current trends in health care and retirement living. This maintains the high quality of service provided by the Village and enhances the high quality of life that we experience,” the couple expressed in an email.

As part of its efforts to meet changing and growing needs, Masonic Village just completed 38 new cottages between the Formal Gardens and Veterans Grove. A limited number of these brand new cottages are still available for reservation. The project includes site work for up to 100 cottages which will be constructed upon demand.

Each new home in this area includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a spacious sunroom with the option for a den, two-car garage and a select number with basements. Open floor plans provide between 1,488 and 1,966 sq. ft. of living space. All kitchens include granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and upgraded cabinets.

Up the hill, the Masonic Health Care Center and Freemasons Building (personal care) also

MASONIC VILL AGES 29

January 2012

“We wanted to be in a top tier retirement community, especially one that we know will always be top tier …

We are constantly seeing improvements being made to keep pace with the current trends in health care and retirement living. This maintains the high quality of service provided by the Village and enhances the high quality of life that we experience.”

- Bro. Ray and Pat Horn

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Bro. Ray Horn, Mt. Lebanon Lodge No. 226, Hershey, and his wife, Pat

30 MASONIC VILL AGES are experiencing changes. Residents’ suites are being renovated and updated with new furniture to feel more homelike. Nursing stations are being relocated to less conspicuous areas and replaced by large family rooms to promote a strong sense of community. Changes in dining services also will provide more choices and a more fulfilling meal experience.

It’s values like these that the Horns appreciate about the Masonic Village. “I’ve always liked my parents’ generation – the World War II generation,” Bro. Horn said. “I really enjoy the conversations we have with people and the values they hold … I like living in a community of like-minded people.”

“Our children are very happy that we made this move to such a high quality community.

They love to visit and also have the peace of mind that we always will be cared for,” the Horns said. An important bonus, their grandchildren love the campus’ cows, fish, birds, trees, orchard, swimming pool and Farm Market. “They want to come back to Nanny and Pappy’s to share in the fun,” the Horns said.

To jump on the retirement living train at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, call (800) 676-6452.

Brotherly Love in Lafayette Hill

Brothers (in fraternal bond and family relationship), Herbert and Chris Reynolds, both of Fritz Lodge No. 308, Conshohocken, moved with their wives to the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill in the same moving truck 11 years ago and have remained just as close ever since.

“We’re Masons, and we thought about it quite a bit. There was no question in our minds that this was the place to be,” Bro. Herbert said.

For several years before his passing, their oldest brother, William, and his wife also lived at the Masonic Village. “We were referred to as the ‘six pack,’” Bro. Chris Reynolds said.

Throughout the years, they’ve been involved in many of the community’s offerings – the model train room, bowling alley, wood shop, going on trips, cultural opportunities in nearby Philadelphia and the gift shop (which Bro. Herbert’s wife, Lois, helps to run), to name a few.

The 801 Club was created for Masons to join in fellowship and support one another and has impacted both brothers. Once a month, the members meet and listen to a speaker.

They also started working with other lodges to gather unused lodge furniture to set up so nearby lodges could hold lodge meetings at the Masonic Village. People who otherwise could not attend lodge now can witness the conferral of degrees.

Because Fritz Lodge is located so close to

Pennsylvania Freemason

the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, many of the residents prefer to attend lodge there, rather than drive to their home towns. Some residents have become dual members, and every month, at least three car loads of Masons travel from the Masonic Village to lodge meetings.

“Since I joined the Masons, I always wanted to be the Master of my lodge. Here, I had fellow Masons to help with the rituals and such,” Bro. Chris said. He served as Worshipful Master of Fritz Lodge in 2009. “I just don’t think I could have done it otherwise.”

Bro. Herbert also mentioned the unique sense of camaraderie. “It’s great that there are a lot of Masonic brothers here. Even the nonMasonic brothers are great … They have their own lives, but we still have a lot in common,” he said. “There are a lot of people who have lots of talents here, and we help each other out.” He went on to explain that just that morning, he noticed one of his tables could benefit from some glue, and a friend from the wood shop promised to stop by later to take a look.

The brothers openly share their experiences at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill with anyone who asks. When people tour the Masonic Village, they both open their homes so others can see what two of the retirement living apartments look like with furniture. It helps the visitors picture what their own apartment might look like and the brothers get to meet new friends.

“My wife, [Joan], and I know everyone in this building,” Bro. Chris Reynolds added.

To join the Masonic movement at the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, call (610) 828-5760. Or, plan to attend a presentation on March 15.

Trusting in the Vision in Sewickley

Eight years ago, Bro. John W. Haught, Forbes Trail Lodge No. 783, Export, and his wife, Sara, White Shrine of Jerusalem, Greensburg, toured the future site of the Masonic Village at Sewickley. What they saw was potential.

“Since we both had been exposed to Masonic affiliations for close to 50 years, we knew a retirement community managed by Masonic upper management was proper for our worryfree retirement,” Bro. Haught said.

Since 2003, Masonic Village at Sewickley has grown to include 43 villas, 228 apartments, a wellness center, indoor pool, nursing and personal care neighborhoods and a clubhouse which features a branch bank, restaurants, computer room, general store, hair salon, art studio, lifelong learning center, assembly room, billiards hall, library and administrative offices.

And their experience HAS been worry-free!

Two restaurants on campus provide meal plans that allow residents to dine out as much or as little as they want while still providing outstanding food and keeping meals interesting by throwing in outings like picnics or dinner on the river – at no extra cost. Residents also enjoy housekeeping, maintenance, many utilities, trash and snow removal, landscaping, scheduled transportation, activities and much more within their monthly service fee, so managing finances becomes a breeze.

On Nov. 3, the date stone was laid for the new Sturgeon Health Care Center at the Masonic Village at Sewickley. The 64,000 sq. ft. addition will be completed in 2012, and renovations to the existing nursing center will commence after its completion. The completed building will offer 16-bed units, called “neighborhoods,” which will provide a more home-like environment.

This is exciting news for residents in retirement living, as well, because should they ever need nursing or personal care, they can rest assured that the services will be provided and their nest egg will be secure because they live in a Lifecare community.

But worry-free living is only exceptional when paired with opportunities, and that is just what Masonic Village at Sewickley offers.

“It is a community where residents can be as active as they wish; there are many varied activities for all to participate in, and for those who desire, they can become members of the many resident advisory committees. There is something at Masonic Village at Sewickley for all residents to become active in, if they wish,” Bro. Haught said.

“It all adds up to provide close fellowship and an opportunity to be a major part of seeing the tenets of Masonry grow here.”

To find out more about worry-free living at the Masonic Village at Sewickley, call (866) 872-0664. Or, plan to attend one of the following events: Lifecare Seminar: January 25 Open House: February 23 Seminar: March 29 The Masonic Villages’ website, www.masonicvillagespa.org, provides a wealth of information to help answer your questions.

If you want to take a glimpse at what life looks like at the Masonic Villages across the state, visit www.facebook.com/masonicvillages for recent photos, upcoming events and tidbits of information.

You can even comment on information you like!

January 2012

Qty. Capital Need Cost per Item Masonic Children’s Home 5 Kinect X-box Game Units $300 2 Carpet for Enclosed Porch $1,500 Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Musical Instruments - Castanets, drums, shakers, bells, $5-$500 tambourines, etc.

4 Merry Walkers - Walkers for fall risk residents $350 3 Blanket Warmers $400 20 Wheelchairs - Regular $500 2 Wii $500 10 Horticulture Gardens - Raised $500-$1,000 14 Thermometers $650 2 46 inch flat-screen TVs $800 6 Carpet for bedrooms for Bleiler Caring Cottage $1,000 15 Wheelchairs - Specialty $1,000 87 APM2 Mattresses 80 x 35 - Prevent skin breakdown $1,200 4 Bariatric Mattresses - Used for larger residents $1,600 10 Massage Chairs - Heated - Assist with easing pain $2,000 5 Wheelchairs - Broda - Comfort seating at end of life $2,100 2 Keyboards - Digital $2,500 1 Portable Sound System for Residents Chorus Group $2,502 1 Vital Sign Machine $3,200 9 Lifts (full) - incl. est. shipping $3,700 9 Lifts (sit-to-stand) - incl. est. shipping $3,800 2 Automatic Doors - handicap accessible $6,995 Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill 60 Televisions $400 Drama Group Lessons/Activities for Residents $3,000 1 It’s Never Too Late - computer systems that empower individuals $24,000 to connect, engage & enjoy life Lobby Facelift (furniture, lamps, drapery, etc.) $28,000 1 Van with lift $45,000 Masonic Village at Warminster 12 Over Bed Tables $265 Masonic Village at Sewickley 1 Photosmart compact printer w/extra cartridges $250 1 All-in-one Music System $500 1 Set of 12-note Choir chimes $530 2 Outdoor Tent (size 20 x 20) $1,800 3 Emergency Defibrillator $2,000 1 Large screen TV for Personal Care residents $3,000 Window Tinting for Main Dining Room $4,000 1 Vehicle (on-campus use) $12,000

MASONIC VILL AGES 31

MASONIC VILLAGES’

2012

WISH LIST ITEMS OFFICE OF GIFT PLANNING

(800) 599-6454

Thank you to those who have provided for the following items from last issue’s Wish List: Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Bro. Jeffrey and Nancy Hoyt: Wheelchairs Rose D. Weiss: Balcony furniture Masonic Children’s Home Evelyn Hunter-Longdon: Theater show tickets for Longdon Cottage children Bro. Wayne M. Garafola: Wish list items in general

“…And, Departing, Leave Behind…”

Longfellow’s famous poem of 1838, “A Psalm of Life,” contains these beautiful words:

Lives of great men all remind us we can make our lives sublime, And, departing, leave behind us footprints on the sands of time…

Not many of us consider ourselves “great men,” but all of us leave footprints behind. And all of us, at least in moments, have made our lives sublime.

We’ve done this when we’ve shown courage, forgiven someone or behaved with grace in a difficult situation. These are victories of the spirit that indeed make a life sublime.

The most sublime accomplishment, which these things really boil down to, is to love our fellow human beings. This is the crowning achievement of the spirit – and something that all of us have done many times in life.

Most often it has been toward family and close friends. In Freemasonry though, this circle of love often extends much wider, to the many people of all ages who benefit from the Masonic Charities through charitable contributions.

Thousands of Masons in Pennsylvania, along with their spouses, distinguish themselves by supporting their fellow human beings in this way. Their charitable giving is a demonstration of compassion that elevates their lives.

In Freemasonry, the ultimate expression of this compassion is to dedicate a portion of one’s life’s work to the Masonic Charities. This can be done by including a charitable gift in one’s estate plans.

Masonic Charities always recognizes that family comes first in estate planning. That being said, Masonic Charities asks everyone, if possible, to include a gift for its charitable work in his or her Will.

Such a gift is easy to include when drafting a Will. If you have already completed your Will, it is still easy. You can simply add a “codicil” – a plain statement of what you want done – often just a single paragraph. Masonic Charities always recommends consulting with professional counsel in estate planning matters.

Masonic Charities staff stands ready to assist in this process or to offer additional estate planning assistance in cases of an intended bequest. Please call (800) 599-6454 with questions, or return the attached “Sands of Time” Reply Form.

Masonic Charities bring enormous pride to Masons. Nothing says so much about Masonic values. These beautiful Masonic institutions have been built by bequests from people who share your values. Such charitable bequests leave a sublime footprint on the sands of time, one that does not wash away.

“SANDS OF TIME” REPLY FORM Complete and mail this form to: Office of Gift Planning, Masonic Charities, One Masonic Dr., Elizabethtown, PA 17022 • Telephone: (800) 599-6454  Please send me (us) information on making a bequest to Masonic Charities.  Please send me (us) a list of the individual charities within the Masonic Charities that I (we) may designate in a bequest.  I (We) have questions about my (our) estate planning. Please call me (us).  I am (We are) planning or considering a bequest to Masonic Charities. Please call me (us) regarding free estate planning services available from Masonic Charities.  I (We) have already included Masonic Charities in my (our) estate plan. Please let me (us) know the benefits, including membership in the Franklin Legacy Society.

Name:___________________________________________ Address:_________________________________________ City:____________________ State:______ Zip:_________ Telephone:________________________________________ Email:___________________________________________

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.