Freemason - February 2014

The Pennsylvania

inaugural edition 2014

Robert J. Bateman R.W. Grand Master

THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON® VOL. LXI, JANUARY 2014, NO. 1

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

Inside this Issue...

EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman Robert J. Bateman, R.W.G.M. Raymond T. Dietz, R.W.D.G.M. S. Eugene Herritt, R.W.S.G.W. Thomas Gamon IV, R.W.J.G.W. Jeffrey W. Coy, R.W.G.T. Mark A. Haines, R.W.G.S. EDITORIAL STAFF Tina L. Raybold - Production Coordinator Rich Johnson - Graphic Designer Thomas R. Labagh - Executive Director, PMYF, Consultant Masonic Library & Museum of PA Staff (Publication No. USPS 426-140) January 2014 Issue of The Pennsylvania Freemason ® Published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Articles and photographs to be considered for publication should be sent with local Masonic authority to the address above, to the attention of The Pennsylvania Freemason ® or emailed to pafreemason@ masonicvillages.org. Except by special arrangement, all articles, photographs and artwork become the property of the Grand Lodge.

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) January 1, 2014, The Pennsylvania Freemason ®, published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Publishers: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Editor: Robert J. Bateman. Owner: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Known bondholders: none. No advertising handled. Free distribution averages 124,000 each quarter.

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

Robert J. Bateman, Editor

3 Grand Lodge

• Grand Master’s Message • Grand Master’s Initiatives • Meet Robert J. Bateman and his Wife, Joanne • Your Grand Lodge Officers and their Ladies • 2014 Appointed Grand Chaplains, Floor Officers, Aides to the Grand Master and District Deputy Grand Masters • Help for Our Heroes • Join Us in Lighting an Eternal Flame • Masonic Temple Keepsake Book Fundraiser

19 Lodge and District

• Masonic Book Review • Congratulations to ...

• Lodge & District Happenings

24 PA Masonic Youth Foundation

• Job’s Daughters Regenerate • Rainbow Girls Host Halloween Party • Legion of Honor Recipients Announced • Grand Lodge of New Jersey Supports PMYF • Scholarship Applications

26 Masonic Villages

• Meet Bro. Jeff Biddle • Florida Masonic Reunions • Prison Break: Escaping the Confines of Your House • 2014 Wish List Items

Mailing address changes

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

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

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Inaugural Address by Robert J. Bateman, R.W. Grand Master Brethren, It is a great honor for me to serve as Grand Master of Freemasonry in Pennsylvania and my privilege to serve each and every Pennsylvania Freemason and his family for the next two years. I am committed to assisting our great fraternity in the future, whenever and wherever needed.

First and foremost, I would like to thank my family for all of their support throughout my journey in Freemasonry. I would also like to thank Bro. William Slater II, R.W. Past Grand Master, for appointing me District Deputy Grand Master for the 36th Masonic District, and Bro. Stephen Gardner, R.W. Past Grand Master, for bringing my name forward to be considered as R.W. Junior Grand Warden. I must congratulate Bro. Jay W. Smith, R.W. Past Grand Master, for his dedication these past two years as he continued to work toward securing the future of this great fraternity.

It is my belief that every organization and its membership needs to have goals to succeed and survive. These goals should encompass what the organization stands for and believes in and should be easy to achieve. Our goals begin with family involvement, interesting meetings, membership retention and growth, community and youth involvement, education, retention of past programs, the creation of new programs, and yes, even some changes. We have a plan to achieve these goals, and I hope that all of you will join with your Grand Lodge officers in bringing them to fruition.

To illustrate the importance of these values, my lapel pin for 2014 and 2015, shown on p. 4, is the state of Pennsylvania with the Square and Compasses and the words “Freemasonry and Family.” My medallion for 2014 and 2015, shown on p. 9, depicts Freemasonry in the great state of Pennsylvania. The altar is in the center with the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses and the Three Great Lights of Freemasonry.

In a triangular form about this altar are the three lesser lights of Freemasonry representing the sun, the moon and the Worshipful Master. On the outside of the keystone are two Brazen Pillars, one engraved with the word “Masonry” and the other with the word “Family.” Both are joined together with two branches of laurel, representing the love that Freemasonry and our families share, and the words “United Together as One.” All are under the vision of the All Seeing Eye, which enters the innermost recesses of the heart and rewards us according to our faithfulness and merit.

Freemasonry is ours to share with the world; it’s not to be kept behind closed and locked doors. We are obligated to ensure that the future of our Craft is left in good hands and that our Masonic history be written by Freemasons, not by historians. Share the experiences and knowledge you have gained during your years in this fraternity with others who are seeking Masonic enlightenment.

If we want Freemasonry to grow, we should nurture it with brotherly love and affection by using the blueprints and designs from the past, the tools of the present and our dreams to build the future for our great fraternity. Brethren, we are the builders of our Masonic future, and it is about time we all get to work.

God bless the United States of America, God bless our great fraternity, and God bless all of you.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Robert J. Bateman R.W. Grand Master

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GRAND MASTER’S INITIATIVES FAMILY INVOLVEMENT Freemasonry has always been a family organization, but we can do more to live up to that reputation. Hectic work schedules can leave many families little time to spend together. We need to begin inviting and involving our families in our meetings and presenting programs that all will enjoy. By including our families in lodge activities, they will have an opportunity to build new friendships, rekindle old ones and enjoy fellowship together.

While Worshipful Masters have already submitted their programs for 2014, every lodge in our jurisdiction should include families in two family nights after lodge, one in the spring and one in the fall. These programs are not to be piggybacked with any other open meetings. However, if a Worshipful Master wishes to invite families to lodge more often, that would be a welcome change.

In the February lodge notice, the Worshipful Master will include a survey asking brethren and their family members for creative program ideas appropriate for all family

Ladies Pin

members. Lodge meetings will open and close in the short manner, and business should be conducted in 30-40 minutes maximum when families are invited. The minutes of the previous month will be handed out to each member before the meeting to save time. Payment of bills will be done by reading the total amount to be paid, unless otherwise requested. All other communications and committee reports will be summarized. Programming will begin immediately after the lodge closes and should last no longer than 20-30 minutes.

All Masonic achievements should be celebrated with families and guests in a public forum. This should include, but not be limited to: Masonic Service Emblem Awards; Masonic birthdays; brethren receiving certificates, citations, and Masonic Achievement Awards; and Officer Installations. Other family programs should include CHIP, fire prevention and bullying prevention.

Our families are the keystone of our lives, and it’s about time we let them know that they are the keystone of our fraternity, as well.

Masonic Pin

LODGE MEETINGS Let’s take a look at our meetings and see what we can do to make them more appealing through various new ways to build interest in the lodge.

Business Worshipful Masters are encouraged to use opening and closing charges to run the business of the lodge at all their stated meetings.

This will leave more time for fellowship and an earlier trip home for those who don’t like to travel late at night.

NO degrees will be conferred at stated meetings without the District Deputy Grand Master’s approval.

All balloting will be done by voice vote unless the use of the ballot is requested. If the ballot box is to be used, all balloting with the exception of the Worshipful Master will be done at the altar according to rank. The reporting of the ballot box will be done in the customary manner.

Attire A jacket and tie will be worn at all Masonic lodge stated, special and extra meetings, lodge banquets, funeral services and other Masonic occasions requiring business

attire. If a brother shows up at a lodge meeting and is not properly attired, he is not to be turned away from attending lodge that evening.

He should, however, be reminded in the most tender manner as to what the proper attire is for the next time he attends a lodge meeting.

Day Lodges Since traveling at night, or even work schedules, may interfere with lodge attendance, I am requesting a Day Lodge be formed from an existing lodge in every Masonic district throughout Pennsylvania. This will assist those brethren who wish to attend lodge meetings but who are unable to attend them in the evenings.

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MEMBERSHIP RETENTION & GROWTH Membership retention and growth over the last few years in Pennsylvania Masonry has ebbed and flowed. We must remember that while increasing membership is always important, retaining our members is essential.

Retention Through personal contact, the Retention Committee will go back three years in its records and try to contact all the members who have resigned or been suspended for nonpayment of dues. The committee will attempt to find out why our brothers have left, and what it would take for them to renew their membership. We need to take their concerns seriously and change the way we have been doing business.

Each member of this committee will be responsible for contacting no more than five brethren to discuss the importance of retaining their membership in our fraternity. The Worshipful Master will oversee this committee’s progress and make recommendations and changes as needed. The District Deputy Grand Master will keep in close personal contact with all the Worshipful Masters in his district to review the committee’s progress and make recommendations and changes as he sees necessary. All District Deputy Grand Masters will send a monthly report of his district’s progress to the Grand Secretary’s Office.

We need to inform our brethren about our programming, community involvement and the countless programs and opportunities

available. We need to let them know that they are still a very important part of our fraternity and that they are not forgotten, but they are sorely missed.

Growth It is the goal of this administration that every Masonic lodge in Pennsylvania increases membership while maintaining current membership in both 2014 and 2015.

Incentives will be given to both lodges and individual brethren who help achieve this goal.

Within one Masonic year, if a Masonic lodge increases its membership while maintaining its current membership, the lodge will receive $50 from Grand Lodge for every new member who has been raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason above what the membership was at the beginning of the year. If a member is the first line signer on a petition, his name will go into a pool to be eligible for a grand prize drawing of a gift card in the amount of $1,000. There will also be a second and third place drawing of a gift card in the amount of $500 each. A member will be permitted to put his name into the pool for each of the petitions for which he was the first line signer.

The Lodge Secretary will be responsible to make sure the lodge records are up to date with the Grand Secretary’s Office. The drawings for the $1,000 gift card and the two $500 gift cards will take place at the December Quarterly Communication, just in time for the holidays, in 2014 and 2015.

In addition to the chance for the grand prize drawing, all first line signers on a petition will receive a sun shade for the windshield of his vehicle as my personal gift. This shade displays the state of Pennsylvania, the Square and Compasses, a telephone number and website for any interested person to get more information. Please use this gift every time you park your vehicle to help spread the light of Pennsylvania Freemasonry.

We will continue to use selective invitation to bring new members into our beloved fraternity. If every Pennsylvania Mason would be the first line signer on one petition, we would increase our membership considerably, and the number of new Masons would be staggering.

The rewards of increased membership could be the difference between healthy lodges versus merging lodges or even lodges going dark.

There will be a One Day Class in both 2014 and 2015. These One Day Classes are to be run at the regional or district level.

All One Day Classes will be governed by the rules that have been used these past few years. Appendant bodies may have a table set up at the One Day Classes.

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PROGRAMMING District Deputy Grand Masters will assist all incoming Worshipful Masters with their budget and program and will review them for final approval by Oct. 1.

For the next two years, we will continue to use the Call to the Craft Program, the Mentor Program, the Online Masonic Education Program, Random Acts of Kindness/ Community Service Initiatives, Change for the Troops (previously called Help for Our Heroes), the Grand Master’s Award Program and the Master Builders Award Program.

The program at all Stated Meetings in May 2014 and 2015 will be for the purpose of honoring and thanking all Masons and non-Masons from the community who serve or who have served as first responders: police, firefighters or EMTs. At the stated meetings in November 2014 and 2015, the program will honor all Masons and non-Masons from the community who are veterans. These programs will be held after the stated meeting closes in an open forum for our families, our honorees and their families, and the community. These

ladies and gentlemen put their lives on the line to help protect us in times of danger. Along with our appreciation and admiration, each first responder and veteran attending these meetings will receive a lapel pin as a token of our appreciation for his or her service to the community and our country. These pins are a gift from Grand Lodge. An agenda for each of these events will be sent to every lodge to be included as part of the program for those stated meetings.

An Eternal Flame will be installed at the Veterans Grove at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. This Eternal Flame is to pay homage to all veterans who served our country and all those who gave their lives for our freedom. We will be celebrating this event at Autumn Day 2014 (see pp. 16-17 for more information).

American Veterans Pin

First Responders Pin

MEMBER BENEFITS Membership in Pennsylvania Freemasonry entitles every member and his family to gain access to the vast array of high quality services available at our Masonic Villages. These include retirement living and health care services, whether it be personal care, nursing care, rehabilitation, hospice or specialized care for those with dementia. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, individuals can continue to receive these services for the rest of their lives regardless of their ability to pay, should the need arise.

In addition, membership includes the services provided by the Masonic Outreach Program. Individuals and families throughout the United States seeking information, direction and education can find the assistance they

need through the Outreach Program. Staff can help you understand what services and resources may be available and refer you to the appropriate community services, such as personal care and skilled care facilities, government and state programs, caregiver support, supplemental income, transportation, senior centers, Medical Assistance and many others. While the majority of services are available to the community, the Outreach Program has designated the following services for Pennsylvania Freemasons and their families only: a Panel of Attorneys, a Finance Panel and Home Assistance.

As an added benefit, the Masonic Blood and Organ Donor Club of Pennsylvania provides a valuable service to our fraternity.

Each member of this club, his spouse and all children up to 18 years of age can receive blood without any limitation on the number of units of blood, and there are no geographic limitations.

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MASONIC YOUTH GROUP INVOLVEMENT Another way to continue building our future is through our desire to get involved with our youth groups. Freemasonry needs to use the resources we have. Our lodges are a safe place where Masonic and local youth groups can come and be mentored. Every Masonic district in this Commonwealth that has a DeMolay Chapter, Job’s Daughters Bethel or Rainbow for Girls Assembly will appoint at least three members of the lodge to attend their meetings, get involved with their programs and support their dreams.

COMMUNITY SERVICE We need to make it a priority to visit our brethren and/or their ladies who may be home bound or live at one of our Masonic Villages or at another senior care community. Every Lodge Secretary will publish and distribute in the February lodge notice a list of these brethren and/or their ladies so members of the lodge can visit, call or send cards and letters to them. Let’s spread the cement of brotherly love and affection to those who really need it.

Every lodge building will sponsor at least one open house in 2014 and 2015 to increase our visibility within our local communities.

Through our presence in the community, we can show how Freemasonry builds character and is a driving force for good. Let’s get involved in community activities and encourage our

The Worshipful Master, Senior and Junior Wardens of the lodge, as well as District Deputy Grand Masters, are encouraged to attend the meetings of our youth groups whenever possible. I encourage districts that do not have a Masonic youth group to attend the meetings of a youth group in a district close to them. If your district does not have a Masonic youth group, consider sponsoring one, or better yet, all three.

neighbors to get involved in Masonic activities.

We should be cooperating with the local food banks, marching in local parades, participating in events that will help make our communities safer or sponsoring a youth sports team, just to name a few. All of these efforts will help to modernize our image.

MASONIC EDUCATION Education is VERY important in Freemasonry. For the next two years, there will be a MANDATORY Wardens Workshop for all Senior and Junior Wardens, Past Masters and anyone else who is planning to become Worshipful Master of his lodge. All District Deputy Grand Masters are required to attend and support the workshop in their region.

If we want to keep our Masonic heritage intact, it should be the goal of every lodge officer to learn our ritual. There is nothing more beautiful, when conferred properly, than our Masonic ritual. Since we have had five years to use the ritual manuals for learning the work, it is now time to take the next step in the requirements to become Worshipful Master or Senior or Junior Warden. Every

brother who is planning to be elected and installed as Worshipful Master of the lodge beginning Dec. 27, 2014, will be required, before his election and installation, to be certified by a District School of Instruction in the business of the lodge and two degrees. All brethren who are planning to be elected and installed as a Senior or Junior Warden of the lodge beginning Dec. 27, 2014, will be required, before their election and installation, to be certified by a District School of Instruction in the business of the lodge.

Past Masters can be elected and installed as Worshipful Master or Senior or Junior Warden of the lodge again without the two degree requirement, but must attend the Wardens Workshop.

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The Batemans’ daughter, Nicole, and granddaughters, Alyssa and Zoe Bro. Bob with his mother, Jane Bateman, and sister, Jane Weaver Bro. Bob and Joanne Bateman after their wedding in August 1971 The Batemans’ son, Bro. Anthony J.; daughter-in-law, Melissa; and grandson, Zack 5. Bro. Bob in 1970 in his U.S. Active Army Reserves uniform 6. The Batemans’ son, Bro. Bob Jr.; daughter-in-law, Carolyn; and granddaughters, Sarah and Jessica

7. Bro. Bob with the late Bro. Tom Hopkins on Aug. 25, 2009, receiving their 33° together 8. The Batemans during their Alaskan vacation in August 2013 9. Bro. Bateman as District Deputy Grand Master for District 36 in 2004 10. Bro. Bob helping with the National Guard after Hurricane Charlie in Arcadia, Fla., in August 2004 11. Bro. Bob helping with District 36’s Masonic CHIP 12. Bro. Bob in 2007 when he became R.W. Junior Grand Warden

January 2014

Picture Needed

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ROBERT J. BATEMAN AND HIS WIFE, JOANNE

Bro. Robert J. Bateman is the 120th R.W. Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania.

A Past Master of Springfield-Hanby Lodge No. 767, Bro. Bob also served as District Deputy Grand Master of the 36th Masonic District, 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 Neversink Forest No. 32, Tall Cedars of Lebanon; 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. Bob served in the U.S. Active Army Reserves from 1969-1974. He retired from the Upper Darby School District after 35 years, last serving as Coordinator for Custodial Services.

Bro. Bob 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. Bob and his wife, Joanne, live in Upper Darby, Pa. They have three children, four granddaughters and one grandson (pictured on p. 8). 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.

In his spare time, Bro. Bob enjoys playing golf, hunting, target shooting, spending time at the shore, traveling with his family, spending time with his grandchildren, cooking, playing horseshoes, listening to music (50s, 60s, and 70s era), walking and reading books about factual military missions of the present.

Joanne has taught children for many years in elementary and preschool settings, in addition to caring for her own family. Her hobbies/interests include reading (for her personal enjoyment and to their grandchildren); doing jigsaw, crossword and Sudoku puzzles; listening to music (oldies and country); watching old movies and taking care of their grandchildren. She also loves the shore, traveling and taking walks. As a flower enthusiast, Joanne chose the state flower of Pennsylvania, the Mountain Laurel, for her Ladies Pin design (see p. 4).

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Your Grand Lodge Officers and their Ladies Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master

on the foundation board for Allegheny General Hospital, Suburban Campus; and Director, Treasurer and House Chairman for Shannopin Country Club. He is President of Newport Condominium Association, Bahamas.

Bro. Dietz has been married for 35 years to the former Lynn Boucher and is the father of two daughters, Jennifer Kelley and Jessica Pfansteil.

Right Worshipful Senior Grand Warden

Raymond T. Dietz and his wife, Lynn Bro. Raymond T. Dietz is a Past Master of Avalon Lodge No. 657, a member of Lodge No. 45, and served as District Deputy Grand Master of the 55th Masonic District, 2004-2009.

A member of the Valley of Pittsburgh, A.A.S.R., Bro. Dietz is an Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, 33°, and he served as Director of the valley’s Children’s Dyslexia Center. He is a member of Hiram’s Scottish Riders; Golden Triangle York Rite College; Royal Order of Scotland; Zerubbabel-Duquesne Royal Arch Chapter No. 162; Mt. Moriah Council No. 2; Pittsburgh Commandery No. 1; Syria Shrine; Naco Caravan No. 19; U.S. Premier Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine; Royal Order of Jesters, Court No. 2; Islam Grotto; Tall Cedars of Lebanon and PA Lodge of Research.

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. He has been employed as Vice President of Union Home Mortgage since 2011, when the company purchased Allstate Financial, which he had founded in 1989 and had served 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

S. Eugene Herritt and his wife, Sally Bro. S. Eugene Herritt 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-present; and as a Representative in Grand Lodge, 1980-2005. He 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 served as Sovereign Master of Constans Council No. 239 Allied Masonic Degrees in 2013; is 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 is a member of Rosicrutions., is an Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, 33˚, and was awarded the DeMolay Legion of Honor.

Bro. Herritt graduated from Montoursville High School, and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Clarion University and a Master of Education Degree from Shippensburg University. He is a retired teacher and has taught as an adjunct professor of Marketing at Shippensburg University’s John L. Grove School of Business. He has served as a successful sales representative for 3M Co., a sales executive with The Beistle Co., and is currently a sales executive with Fortney Packages.

He is a member of the Council of Trustees of Shippensburg University. He also serves as a member of the Board of Directors of Adams Electric Cooperative and the Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association; he has also served as chairman of both organizations.

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

Right Worshipful Junior Grand Warden

Thomas Gamon IV and his wife, Cheryl Bro. Thomas Gamon IV will be presented as R.W. Junior Grand Warden to his lodge on Jan. 25 in Red Hill.

He is a Past Master of Perkiomen Lodge No. 595, Red Hill, and served as District Deputy Grand Master of District 40, 20022008; as a Representative in Grand Lodge and an Aide to the Grand Master, 2012-2013; and as a member of the Masonic Education Committee, 2010-2011.

Bro. Gamon is a member of Pottstown Royal Arch Chapter No. 198; Excelsior Mark Lodge No. 216; Constantine Conclave, Red

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Cross of Constantine; Palenstine Council No. 8, Royal Select and Master Masons; Nativity Commandery No. 71; Lu Lu Shriners; PA Lodge of Research; and Perkiomen Valley High Twelve Club No. 670. In the Valley of Reading, he served as Thrice Potent Master, 2012-2013; as Secretary and President of the Good Fellowship Club; and as Director of the Dyslexia Learning Center, 2009-2011. He is a charter member of Hiram’s Scottish Riders Motorcycle Club and Gnothi Seauton AMD Council.

Bro. Gamon graduated from Perkiomen Valley High School, earned an Associate’s Degree in Criminology from the Montgomery County Community College and completed his PA state apprenticeship in the electrical field. He is self-employed as President of Gamon Electric, Inc., a full-service electrical contracting firm which he started in 1986. A member of Lower Frederick Fire Company since 1975, he served as fire chief from 1984-2002 and from June 2012-present. He has earned several professional certifications and licenses and serves on a variety of committees as an electrical contractor and with the fire department.

He and his wife, Cheryl, live in Schwenksville and are members of the Jerusalem Lutheran Evangelical Church. They are the proud parents of Bro. Thomas V and Danielle and the grandparents of Shelby Elizabeth, Thomas VI and Kali.

Right Worshipful Grand Treasurer

Supreme Council, 33˚. 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. Bro. Coy was awarded the Pennsylvania Franklin Medal by R.W. Past Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon during the 2009 Annual Communication.

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.

From 2004-2011, he served as a Commissioner of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.

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.

Right Worshipful Grand Secretary

Jeffrey W. Coy and his wife, Jo Anne Bro. Jeffrey W. Coy has been serving as R.W. Grand Treasurer since his installation on Dec. 27, 2003.

He 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

Mark A. Haines and his wife, Karen Bro. Mark A. Haines has served as Grand Secretary since his installation on Dec. 27, 2005. Previously, he was employed as Deputy Grand Secretary and held various management

positions within the insurance industry.

He 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 Past Master of Excelsior Mark Lodge No. 216. Bro. Haines is a Past Thrice Potent Master and served as a Trustee of Reading Lodge of Perfection, is a member of the Valley of Reading, A.A.S.R., 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. He is a member of the Royal Order of Scotland and Neversink Forest No. 32, Tall Cedars of Lebanon.

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. Bro. Haines was awarded the Pennsylvania Franklin Medal by R.W. Past Grand Master Stephen Gardner during the 2009 Annual Communication.

He and his wife, Karen, have five children and two granddaughters. They live in West Lawn and attend Peace Lutheran Church.

These elected officers serve on several Grand Lodge committees, including, but not limited to: the Committee on Finance, Committee on Landmarks, Masonic Villages’ and/or The Masonic Library and Museum Board of Directors, Trustees of the Masonic Charities Fund, Trustees of the Consolidated Fund, and Administrators of the Pension Plan.

12 GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason

2014 Appointed Grand Chaplains

GRAND CHAPLAIN

Charles C. Warwick

Lodge No. 655, District 12

GRAND CHAPLAIN

John J. Dromazos

Lodge No. 144, District 46

2014 Appointed Floor Officers

SENIOR GRAND DEACON

JUNIOR GRAND DEACON

Lodge No. 767, District 36

Lodge No. 767, District 36

GRAND MARSHAL

ASSIST. GRAND MARSHAL

GRAND PURSUIVANT

Lodge No. 521, District 52

Lodge No. 405, District 5

Lodge No. 767, District 36

Anthony J. Bateman

Jon A. Fair

David R. Lewis

Russell W. Baker

GRAND STEWARD

Jeffrey M. Wonderling, P.D.D.G.M.

Lodge No. 346, District 30

David J. Coffman

GRAND STEWARD

GRAND SWORD BEARER

Lodge No. 284, District 10

Lodge No. 767, District 36

GRAND TYLER

ASSIST. GRAND TYLER

Lodge No. 309, District 5

Lodge No. 236, District 36

John S. Gardner

Edward J. Stumm

Robert J. Bateman Jr.

Orlando P. Salvato III

GR AND LODGE 13

January 2014

2014 Appointed Aides to the Grand Master

DEPUTY CHIEF AIDE TO THE GRAND MASTER

AIDE TO THE GRAND MASTER

AIDE TO THE GRAND MASTER

AIDE TO THE GRAND MASTER

G. Kent Hackney, P.D.D.G.M.

Lodge No. 767, District 36

Lodge No. 236, District 36

Lodge No. 336, District 42

AIDE TO THE GRAND MASTER

AIDE TO THE GRAND MASTER

AIDE TO THE GRAND MASTER

AIDE TO THE GRAND MASTER

Lodge No. 72, District B

Richard N. Fitzsimmons, P.D.D.G.M. Lodge No. 392, District 24

Stephen A. Amabile

Peter S. Gardner

Lodge No. 284, District 10

Raymond W. Bryant

Jeffery S. Hentz, P.D.D.G.M.

Lodge No. 797, District 58

Darrin D. Catts

Alfred W. Kotula, P.D.D.G.M.

Lodge No. 233, District 59

2014 Appointed District Deputy Grand Masters

Leonard Juliani

Lodge No. 52, District D Presentation: Jan. 26, 2014 Tacony

John E. Nixon

Lodge No. 413, District 50 Presentation: Jan. 31, 2014 Bath

Wendell R. Hunt

Lodge No. 542, District 14 Presentation: Feb. 2, 2014 Ladore

Richard A. McCleary

Lodge No. 316, District 53 Presentation: Jan. 11, 2014 Franklin

D. Henry Wight

Lodge No. 391, District 21 Presentation: Feb. 22, 2014 Philipsburg

D. Todd Ballenger

Lodge No. 231, District 55 Presentation: Jan. 9, 2014 Pittsburgh

Robert W. Amend

Lodge No. 652, District 47 Presentation: Jan. 10, 2014 Carnegie

David L. Merithew

Lodge No. 468, District 59 Presentation: Feb. 1, 2014 Wyoming

14 GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason

Pennsylvania Masons with the military moms-to-be

CHANGE FOR THE TROOPS PREVIOUSLY HELP FOR OUR HEROES

Couple expecting triplets Nov. 2 was our ninth, largest and best military baby shower to date! We have had a set of twins expected at each shower, but at this shower, we had two sets of twins and a set of triplets!

This shower was attended by the new Commander of the McGuire–Dix–Lakehurst Joint Base Col. James Hodges and Col. Charles Coursey, Deputy Commander.

Col. Hodges asked to address the attendees and talked enthusiastically about, and with sincere appreciation for, how wonderful

Volunteers handing out gifts this event was for all the families who have been honored by Pennsylvania Masons.

He elaborated on all the other projects and events we have sponsored for the personnel at the base.

After Col. Hodges completed his comments, Bro. Col. Harris Brooks called upon Bro. Harry Rutter, Grand Lodge Controller, William L. Elkins Lodge No. 271, Philadelphia, and they presented Col. Hodges a $5,000 check to fund the Christmas party for the families of children with special

needs who are serving in the military.

Bro. Tom Long, Brotherhood Lodge No. 126, Philadelphia, continues to work with veterans needing assistance from the veterans court project. “We recently had an Airman from the 514th AW at Joint Base McGuire–Dix–Lakehurst referred to our program for assistance. When he arrived, we realized he was a Pennsylvania Mason!”

If you are a veteran and would like to assist with this effort, please contact Bro. Tom at 215-520-8826.

GR AND LODGE 15

January 2014

The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania made a $40,000 gift to Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children to purchase telemedicine equipment for use with pediatric patients in military families. Telemedicine enables doctors to evaluate children from a distance by using cameras and computers. For example, examinations and radiology studies conducted in Sussex County, Del., can be instantly transmitted for consultation with pediatric specialists at duPont Hospital for Children in Wilmington, saving the family a trip and additional expenses, and allowing for timely diagnosis and treatment.

During the presentation, Bro. Col. Brooks said, “Our military families deserve the very best care. We are delighted to make this donation help to support them. It’s a win-win-win for the kids, their doctors and the hospital.” R.W. Past Grand Master Jay W. Smith added, “We are pleased and proud to make contributions that will improve the lives of all children, but especially those in military families. It is another way of thanking them for their service to all of us.”

Tannia Foutch and her 3-month-old daughter Ellie, who underwent open heart surgery at duPont Hospital in November, were on hand to represent military families. Tannia, a Navy aircraft technician, is based in Pensacola, Fla.; Ellie’s father, Tommy Stotridge, also serves in the Navy. She poses with R.W. Past Grand Master Jay W. Smith; Jay S. Greenspan, M.D., Chairman of Pediatrics for Nemours and Chair of the Department of Pediatrics for Jefferson University Hospitals; and Bro. Col. Harris Brooks.

“I would like to thank all the blue lodges who invited us to speak at their meetings about the Help for our Heroes (Change for the Troops) program and also for their financial support. Without the support from our brothers, we couldn’t continue to do all we do for these families.” - Bro. Col. Harris Brooks 1. Col. James Hodges, Commander, Joint Base McGuire–Dix–Lakehurst, accepting the $5,000 donation from Bro. Harry Rutter and Col. Bro. Harris Brooks.

2. Bro. Col. Brooks and Bro. Harry Rutter with a service member who was a recipient at a baby shower last year and returned as a volunteer for this shower.

3. Col. Charles Coursey, Deputy Commander, Joint Base McGuire–Dix– Lakehurst, picking the winner of the drawing for a stroller system and a $400 gift card, with Bro. Col. Brooks. After they drew the name, they announced that everyone gets each of the prizes.

4. Bro. Sam Freeman, P.M., Brotherhood Lodge No. 126, Philadelphia, presenting a special gift from R.W. Past Grand Master Jay W. Smith to one of the dads-to-be.

Everyone then received one.

1.

2.

3.

4.

16 GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason

join us in lighting

AN ETERNAL FLAME honoring all active military and veterans

An eternal flame monument will be installed at the Veterans Grove at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown and dedicated on Autumn Day, Sept. 20, 2014. This eternal flame will serve as a 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year tribute and symbol of gratitude to the brave service men and women who preserve our freedom, including those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Bro. Donald S. Wood, Youghiogheny Lodge No. 583, McKeesport, has generously contributed a major gift toward the construction of the Eternal Flame. “I did this to honor our fellow veterans,” he said.

The monument will stand 8’ 8 1/4” tall and 6’ 6 3/4” wide. A plaque on the front of the eternal flame will state: “All gave some ... Some gave all.”

We are inviting all Masons, as well as family members and friends and all veterans, to help create and maintain the eternal flame and to construct the pathways around and in between it and the monument. For those who would like to honor or remember a beloved veteran, 468 pavers (size 12” x 18”) around the eternal

flame can be inscribed with a special message for a $500 donation.

Additionally, 1,104 bricks (size 8” x 12”) leading to and around the monument can be inscribed for a $250 donation. Contributions to the Masonic Charities are tax-deductible to the extent of the law.

Any funding received above what is needed for the preservation of the Veterans Grove will be used to fund special programming at our Masonic Villages for veterans on Veterans Day and Memorial Day. Bro. Franklin D. Caltagirone, Reading Lodge No. 549, West Reading, and past Masonic Villages board member, is helping to spearhead this initiative on behalf of R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to become a part of this meaningful tribute for posterity. Reservations for pavers will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to order yours today!

All orders for a paver must be received no later than May 1 to guarantee installation for the dedication on Sept. 20.

January 2014

GR AND LODGE 17

Eternal Flame Donation Form

As a way of honoring or memorializing an individual, a paver surrounding the eternal flame and/or a brick on the pathway to the Veterans Grove can be inscribed to permanently honor an individual’s service to our country. Please complete the form below and send it along with your check payable to the Masonic Charities.

Name (donor) ______________________________________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________________________________ City ______________________________ State __________________________ Zip _______________ Phone( ) _____________________ Email ___________________________________________ Choose a paver size:  12”x18” Paver ($500) will accommodate 5 lines with no more than 20 characters per line  8”x12” Brick ($250) will accommodate 4 lines with no more than 14 characters per line Please print paver inscription below exactly as you would like it to appear; spaces are included in character count. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Please return both completed form and check payable to the Masonic Charities to:

Office of Gift Planning • Masonic Village • One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022 • 1-800-599-6454 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.

The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia

18 GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason

The Masonic Temple/Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania at One North Broad Street in Philadelphia belongs to all of us. We should support, use and exhibit it with pride. To help support this charity, we have published a 140-page coffee table book about our Grand Lodge building. All proceeds from the sale of “The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia” will go to this charity. The book is now available for a donation of $25. It may be purchased at the Museum Shop, from its website, www.masonicmuseumgifts.com, or by calling the shop at 215-988-1973, Tuesdays through Saturdays, and paying with a credit card.

The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia Name_________________________________________ Street Address__________________________________ _____________________________________________ City____________________ State____Zip____________ Quantity of Books_______ Total Cost ________

Cost Calculator for each book...

Inside Philadelphia: $25 + $2 tax + $7 shipping = $34.00 x number of books = _____ Outside Philadelphia: $25 + $1.50 tax + $7 shipping = $33.50 x number of books = _____ Out of State orders: No tax. Per book: $25 + $7 shipping = $32.00 x number of books = _____

To mail a check using this coupon, please make your check out to “Masonic Museum Shop” and mail to

Masonic Library & Museum Shop • One North Broad Street • Philadelphia, PA 19107

LODGE AND DISTRICT 19

January 2014

Observing the Craft: The Pursuit of Excellence in Masonic Labour and Observance by Andrew Hammer Reviewed by Cathy Giaimo, Assistant Librarian, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania

Bro. Andrew Hammer, a Virginia Mason, has written a book that challenges the direction 21st century Freemasonry is taking. Bro. Hammer defines “observing the Craft” as maintaining the highest standards in following the tenets of Freemasonry. While Bro. Hammer recognizes there are diverse ways to enjoy the work and fellowship in the lodge, he wants to challenge the status quo and remind us that there are members who are seeking the higher meanings of Freemasonry within the lodge.

Bro. Hammer begins by asking, “Why does observing the Craft matter?” Bro. Hammer would like to see lodge members once more freely discuss the philosophy and ideas that the early members were eager to explore. He explains that by reclaiming their Masonic heritage, studying and applying the ideals that are learned through the rituals, members will in turn become more knowledgeable and demand more from their lodge and their lodge brothers. He is concerned that modern Freemasonry has become more of a social club and so concerned with numbers that it has lowered its standards.

Bro. Hammer examines the role that appendant or concordant bodies play within Freemasonry and how they may distract members from the Symbolic Lodge. Men may be too eager to join these groups before they have had a chance to truly study and understand what

Freemasonry means.

He also discusses the pursuit of excellence in membership as well as ritual and dress. While Freemasonry frowns upon elitism within the lodge, members should maintain certain standards where membership is involved. Care should be taken in the learning of ritual as well as the presentation. Finally, dressing for lodge meetings should be given the same consideration as any important meeting one would have outside the lodge room.

Bro. Hammer defines an Observant Lodge as one that upholds the highest Masonic standards. It respects its Grand Lodge and its authority while still allowing for reasonable questions. Its membership is concerned with quality, not quantity.

New initiates are able take their time in learning the meaning behind the degrees taken. Lodge leaders lead with integrity and by example. The light of Freemasonry is bestowed only upon those men who have proven themselves worthy of such knowledge.

If you wish to borrow this book, please contact the library at 800-462-0430, ext. 1933, or visit The Masonic Library & Museum online catalog at www.pagrandlodge.org. This book is also available for purchase from the Museum Shop in the Masonic Temple at www.masonicmuseumgifts.com or by calling 215-988-1973.

New Castle Freemasons Contribute to Purchase of Police Narcotics Dog On Oct. 15, members of Lodge of the Craft/Westminster Lodge No. 433, New Castle, were introduced to the newest member of the Neshannock Township Police Department: “Avi,” a German shepherd trained to locate narcotics.

Bro. Dan Wellman, W.M., said, “In September, the members of the lodge voted to contribute $1,500 toward the purchase of Avi, as well as a speciallydesigned bullet resistant vest for him. We’re proud and pleased to meet Avi and his fellow officers from the Neshannock Township Police Department.”

According to Bro. Wellman, this is the second time the lodge has made such a contribution to local law enforcement.

Officer Alfred DeCarbo, Neshannock Township K-9 officer, provided information on the purpose and history of the K-9 unit and Avi’s acquisition and background.

Front row, l-r: Lt. John Rand, Officer Jeremy Dewitt, Officer Robert Sipe, Officer/K-9 Handler Alfred DeCarbo, “Avi,” Officer Shawn Hill and Bro. Daniel Wellman, W.M., Lodge of the Craft/Westminster Lodge No. 433, New Castle. Second row, l-r: Bros. Marvin Lebby; Walter Monstwil; D.J. Robison; Charles Lewis; Cody Michael; Jason Harlan; Richard K. Sbarro, Secretary; Ralph Sheen; and Levi R. Harding III.

20 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Congratulations to…

Bro. Lynn B. Baker conferred his 100th Masonic degree on Sept. 26 at Middleburg Lodge No. 619. It was Bro. Adam S. Graybill’s Master Mason degree.

L-r: Bros. David Reiner, D.D.G.M.-46; Randall W. Spriggle, P.M.; Adam S. Graybill, recipient; Alvin S. Graybill, P.M., Adam’s father; and Lynn B. Baker, P.M., all of Middleburg Lodge No. 619.

As part of the 200th anniversary year of Schuylkill Lodge No. 138, Orwigsburg, lodge members reenacted the delivery of the Warrant of Constitution two centuries ago during its Sept. 9, 2013, stated meeting.

L-r: Bro. Hezekiah Boone, P.M., Rising Sun Lodge No. 100 (portrayed by Bro. Robert C. Baessler, P.M.), presents the Constitution to Bro. Theophilus Hughes, W.M. (portrayed by Wayne C. Yeager, P.M., W.M.); Bro. Robert Scott, S.W. (portrayed by Dale C. Hine, P.M., S.W.); and Bro. William Nice, J.W. (portrayed

by Robert N. Hess, J.W.).

Ellwood Lodge Gets a New Sign

On Oct. 12, members of Ellwood Lodge No. 599, Elwood City, participated in a semi-annual road clean-up effort along Wampum Road in Wayne Township as a community service project.

Earlier in the day, the lodge and Order of the Eastern Star Chapter No. 212, also of Ellwood City, installed a new lodge sign that was crafted and donated by Bro. Dale T. Pritchard, Senior Deacon.

L-r: Bros. Ross D. Conrad, W.M.; Fredrick W. Schuster, P.M., Secretary; Dale T. Pritchard, S.D.; and Brian F. Franksain, J.W.

Pennsylvania Freemason

Members of Bedford Lodge No. 320 presented Bro. Donald F. Amick his 70Year Masonic Service Emblem in his home in Fishertown, on Sept. 12, in the presence of his daughter, Donna Miller, Meyersdale Chapter No. 548, O.E.S.; and son-in-law, Bro. Hap Miller, Meyersdale Lodge No. 554.

Bro. Amick partnered with his father in a business with a 100-acre apple orchard and opened Amick’s Restaurant in Fishertown, known today as The Apple Bin, and a TasteeFreeze Drive-in Restaurant right next door.

He was an avid hunter and enjoys fishing.

L-r: Bros. Richard Goodman, P.M., serving as Chaplain; Jeffrey Onstead, W.M.; and Donald F. Amick, 70-Year Masonic Service Emblem recipient, all of Bedford Lodge No. 320; Bro. Robert C. Snyder II, D.D.G.M.-Masonic District 34; and Bro. John Mumma, Mount Zion Lodge No. 774, serving as Secretary.

January 2014

LODGE AND DISTRICT 21

Districts Host One Day Classes Masonic District 1 held its One Day Class on Oct. 19 at the Lancaster Masonic Center. Thirteen new candidates enrolled, each assisted by a mentor, who is responsible for accompanying the new members to their first stated meeting and introducing them to the members and officers. After lunch, four new members joined the Lancaster Lodge of Perfection.

District Deputy Grand Master Larry A. Derr explained how the new members can earn the Master Builder’s Award and complimented the district degree team on an outstanding job.

The conferring teams, mentors, newly-made Masons and District Deputy Grand Master Larry A. Derr.

On Oct. 19, 78 Masons attended Masonic District 49’s One Day Class at the McKeesport Masonic Center, hosted by Youghiogheny Lodge No. 583, McKeesport. Twenty-two candidates became members.

The conferring teams, mentors, newly-made Masons and District Deputy Grand Master David B. Firda.

Long-term International Masonic Friendship

Bro. Charles Dudgeon, P.M., DuquesneMcKeesport Lodge No. 731, Duquesne, met Ervin Aspiras in 1985 when he had been sent to Illigan City, Philippines, to work as a piping consultant. Ervin, a Senior DeMolay, worked with him on the project as a civil engineer and was very interested in the Masonic fraternity.

After the two-year project was completed, Bro. Charles returned home, but the two friends kept in touch. Bro. Ervin proudly wrote of joining the fraternity in the Philippines and working his way up the Grand Lodge line.

When Bro. Ervin and his family migrated to Canada, they visited Bro. Charles and his wife. By then, Bro. Ervin had joined Coronati Lodge No. 520, Scarborough, Canada, and was serving as an officer.

When Bro. Ervin was installed as Worshipful Master in 2005, Bro. Charles and three other Duquesne-McKeesport Lodge brethren traveled to Canada to witness it. Bro. Ervin and three of his Canadian brethren visited Duquesne-McKeesport Lodge in 2007, 2012 and 2013. In September 2013, Bro. Charles, as well as lodge brothers Joseph Gray, P.M.; David Boyle; John A. Warhold, P.M.; and David Firda, District Deputy Grand Master for District 49, journeyed to Scarborough, Canada. They visited Coronati Lodge No. 520, G.R.C., Ontario, and Remembrance Lodge No. 586, Toronto. At Coronati Lodge, they attended a banquet, witnessed the Installation of Officers and the conferral of a Fellow Craft degree and were presented with gifts.

22 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason

A Little Bit of Scottish Seoul in Pittsburgh On July 12, Lodge Han Yan 1048, on the rolls of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, held a special reunion meeting hosted by Lodge Ad Lucem No. 812, Pittsburgh.

Lodge Han Yang (SC) normally conducts its regular meetings in Seoul, Republic of Korea. The lodge is comprised of not only Korean brethren, but also brethren from various countries around the world who reside in Korea. Over the years, many of the brethren returned to their home country after their overseas service. Seven years ago, the brethren who have departed Seoul decided to hold an annual reunion in North America.

The reunion has normally been held in Toronto, Canada, until this year. The attendees had always hoped to not only hold a reunion, but to have a formal tyled lodge meeting and to don the Ancient MacFarlane Hunting Tartan Apron (the regalia of Lodge Han Yang, show below, right) that so many have grown to love. This wish came true

during their meeting at the Pittsburgh Athletic Club, followed by a festive board including all the necessary Scottish requirements such as haggis (a traditional Scottish dish made from sheep organs), scotch and many, many toasts.

This was the third time that Lodge Han Yang had held an actual lodge meeting outside of Korea; the first two were because of the Japanese Occupation and the Korean War. It was special that the third meeting was born out of brotherly love and not disaster.

The event was well attended by more than 30 brethren from both Lodge Han Yang and Lodge Ad Lucem.

Bro. Dennis Pugh, W.M., Lodge Han Yang, presented commemorative banners to Bros. Erastus Allen, W.M., Lodge Ad Lucem, and District Deputy Grand Master of Masonic District 54 P.J. Roup in appreciation for their support and encouragement of the event.

Bro. Anthony F. Gennaccaro, P.M., Corinthian Lodge No. 573, Pittsburgh, ushered

Worshipful Masters Dennis Pugh, Lodge Han Yang, and Erastus Allen, Lodge Ad Lucem

in the haggis as Piper for the evening to everyone’s enjoyment. Bro. Robert Addleman, Lodge Ad Lucem, served as Bard (a poet/singer) and presented Bro. Robert Burn’s “Address to a Haggis.” Bro. Allen presented Bro. Pugh a lovely engraved decanter to commemorate the meeting in Pittsburgh.

It was a splendid evening that strengthened fraternal ties from around the world. Many stories were shared and new friendships formed.

A very special thanks to the Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Scotland for granting Lodge Han Yang a warrant to travel, R.W. Past Grand Master Jay W. Smith for allowing the meeting to be held in Pennsylvania, and to the brethren of Lodge Ad Lucem for being such gracious hosts.

Regalia of Lodge Han Yang

FREEMASON 23

January 2014

Treichler Lodge Surprises Past Grand Master At the 98th annual banquet of Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, Bros. David Sekely, W.M., and Noble P. Johnson, District Deputy Grand Master for Masonic District 60, surprised R.W. Past Grand Master Jay W. Smith with a check for $25,000 payable to the Masonic Children’s Home in honor of its 100th Anniversary in 2013.

While thanking the lodge for its generosity, Grand Master Smith remarked that this was the largest single lodge donation that he had received in response to his request that every lodge contribute $1,000 to the children’s home during its centennial year.

Congratulations and many thanks to Bro. Noble P. Johnson, who will be presented to his lodge, Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, as Past District Deputy Grand Master of District 60.

L-r: Bros. David Sekely, W.M.; Jay W. Smith, R.W.P.G.M.; and Noble P. Johnson, D.D.G.M.

Concordia Lodge: Faithful Donors On Oct. 19, members of Concordia Lodge No. 67, Jenkintown, presented a check to the Masonic Children’s Home for its endowment fund. They toured the children’s home campus and visited the Donor Recognition Garden, where the lodge is listed on an Educator level plaque (recognizing donors of $5,000 and above). Earlier this year, the lodge donated funds to purchase two new pianos for the home.

“We were really impressed; it’s just like a regular home where the kids have their own rooms,” Worshipful Master Bob Mills said.

“We’ve always been behind the children’s home. We’re very thrilled with the nice job they do for the youth.”

Concordia Lodge’s generous members give at least 65 percent of the lodge’s income to the Masonic Charities. The dividends from investments the lodge has made over the years support its charitable efforts. Some of those funds were recently given to support the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation’s Scholarship Fund.

In 2012, the lodge made gifts to support special projects at the Masonic Temple/ Library and Museum in Philadelphia, Masonic

Village at Lafayette Hill, Masonic Village at Warminster and the Masonic Children’s Home.

Concordia Lodge is also a strong contributor to the Help for Our Heroes/Change for the Troops program.

In addition to the Masonic Charities, the lodge has contributed to Boy Scout troops, libraries and other organizations its members believe could benefit from its support.

L-r: Bros. Scott D. Simkins, P.M., Trustee; Dr. Edwin S. Hart III, P.M., Trustee; William Greet, P.M., Trustee; Robert M. Mills, W.M.; James Day, S.W.; and Michael J. Hopper Jr., J.W.

24 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason

Job’s Daughters Regenerate For Pennsylvania Job’s Daughters, fall is a time of regeneration and visits from our fraternal family. Like many Masonic bodies, Job’s Daughters is “dark” for the months of July and August, but when September comes around and school starts, they are back in full force. Three Bethels have already initiated eight new members, and the annual Grand Visits by the Grand Guardian have begun.

In “Jobie-land,” Grand Visits officially started on Oct. 6 and have been great fun. Grand Guardian Amy Nace and her husband, Associate Grand Guardian Bro. Forrest Nace, Victory Lodge No. 694, Butler, have been greeted with taco luncheons served in formal dress and witnessed beautiful Initiation and Obligation ceremonies. They have heard Daughters vote to give money toward “Brazilian Belly Dancing and Sardine Factory Tours,” only to find that this was code for their charities, HIKE and the MS Society.

The fun doesn’t stop there.

They witnessed a meeting with a full floor of officers and choir, listened to some of the most beautiful singing imaginable, watched as sister Bethels helped each other by filling seats on the floor of a meeting, went “trunk or treating” dressed as Raggedy Ann and Andy and received gifts ranging from a bag full of much-needed travel supplies to an honorary elephant adoption at the Pittsburgh Zoo! Grand Guardian Amy Nace writes, “… my heart swells with pride in our Pennsylvania Job’s Daughters. To see the smiling faces in a room full of young women who are learning the traits of being great leaders, and knowing how bright the future is for them, and in the end for our Masonic family … is what makes our jobs as their adult leaders worthwhile. All of the fun that we get to have is just the extra added bonus of the organization!”

From top-bottom: Pictures taken at Grand Visits in Elizabethtown, Chambersburg and York.

Rainbow Girls Host Halloween Party at the Masonic Village at Sewickley The Masonic Village at Sewickley was haunted on Oct. 26 by 15 Rainbow Girls representing six different Assemblies: Martha No. 11, Washington; Irwin No. 42; Pitcairn No. 90, Monroeville; Faith No. 150, Wexford; Ohio Valley No. 157, Coraopolis; and Hope No. 186, Pleasant Hills; and a DeMolay member from Templar Chapter, Pittsburgh.

The girls arrived early to decorate the Assembly Room. They escorted more than 75 residents to the party, where the girls presented a skit, played a candy naming game and sang Halloween songs. Then they served a Halloween snack to all before escorting each resident back to his or her room. The residents had a great time, and so did the girls!

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION 25

January 2014

Legion of Honor Recipients Announced The DeMolay Legion of Honor (LOH) is presented in Pennsylvania to men who were either DeMolay members during their youth and are successful in their daily and fraternal lives, or to Master Masons who have exhibited a spirit of cooperation and support for the Order of DeMolay as adults. Nominations are submitted by Bro. Thomas R. Labagh, Executive Officer, based on recommendations received from DeMolay Chapters and LOH Preceptories in Pennsylvania. The nominees must NOT be told of their nomination until after a unanimous vote of DeMolay International.

Pennsylvania DeMolay holds two LOH Conferrals each fall. The Eastern LOH Conferral was held on Oct. 5 in Reading for Thomas H. Stecher, Thomson Lodge No. 340, Paoli, Director and creator of the PMYF LifeSkills program; L. Donald Loos, Williamson Lodge No. 307, Womelsdorf, and Herbert Swisher, Lodge No. 43, Lancaster, both Past Commanders-in-Chief of the Valley of Reading; and Mark Rife, George Washington Lodge No. 143, Chambersburg, Chapter Advisor of George Washington DeMolay Chapter of Chambersburg.

The Western LOH Conferral was held

on Nov. 2 in Greensburg, Pa., for David Tack Sr., Butler Lodge No. 272; F. Arthur Rauschenberger, William H. Miller Lodge No. 769, Butler, Commander-in-Chief, Valley of Pittsburgh; Richard Rodibaugh, Shidle Lodge No. 601, Irwin; and Richard Stemmler, Loyalhanna Lodge No. 275, Latrobe, P.D.D.G.M.-District 30.

LOH Preceptories meet annually, on or near March 18, which is generally acknowledged as the date Jacques DeMolay was burned at

the stake and the Order of the Temple was destroyed. Preceptories gather to reminisce, share stories and to support their local DeMolay Chapters.

Congratulations to each of these deserving supporters of DeMolay.

Above, front row, l-r: Eastern Legion of Honor recipients Bros. Thomas H. Stecher, L. Donald Loos, Herbert Swisher and Mark Rife

Grand Lodge of New Jersey Supports PMYF At the annual New Jersey Masonic Leadership Seminar held at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown on Oct. 26, Bro. David A. Dorworth, M.W. Grand Master of Masons of New Jersey, presented a check for $1,000 to Bro. Samuel C. Williamson, R.W. Past Grand Master and Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation, to sponsor an additional piece of new furniture for the Atrium of Memorial Hall at the Masonic Conference Center—Patton Campus.

L-r: Bros. David A. Dorworth, M.W. Grand Master of N.J.; Bro. Samuel C. Williamson, R.W. Past Grand Master of PA; and Thomas R. Labagh, Executive Director for PMYF

PMYF Scholarship Applications Due March 15 The Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation maintains an Educational Endowment Fund, from which scholarship awards are made annually to deserving recipients, in a competitive program. These scholarship, grant and loan opportunities are for Masons, their siblings, children, grandchildren and members of the Masonic-related youth groups in Pennsylvania.

The precise number and amount of

scholarship awards made each year varies according to the income available from the endowment fund.

Each year, the Foundation publishes a Masonic Scholarship Resource Guide, which is made available to all Masonic lodges, school districts and interested individuals in Pennsylvania. The guide lists all awards available through the endowment fund, as well as several other awards available to relatives of

Masons and Masonic youth group members, which can be applied for separately. The guide and the application can be found online at www.pmyf.org/scholarships. Deadline for filing is March 15.

If you have difficulty accessing this information for any reason, you may contact us at 800-266-8424 or pmyf@pagrandlodge.org to request to have a copy of the guide sent to you.

26 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

Masonic Village Board Member Bro. Jeff Biddle Has a Heart for the Mission of Love Bro. Dr. Jeff Allen Biddle has been a member of the Masonic Village’s board of directors since December 2007. Appointed by R.W. Past Grand Master Ronald A. Aungst, Sr., Bro. Jeff began his tenure on the board during the onset of the recession. Still, he was excited about the opportunity to make a difference.

“I think the neatest thing any Mason could do is to serve on that board. I’ve learned more about how the fraternity and Grand Lodge works in that capacity than all the other things I’ve ever done in Freemasonry ... and I’ve had the honor of receiving my 33˚ (in 2011) and serving as the Most Wise Master of the Valley of Pittsburgh,” Bro. Jeff said. “The amount of care we give away, how we take care of fellow Masons and their families, as well as the kids in the children’s home and the adults in the Bleiler Caring Cottage – I don’t think even being a Mason, I understood the extent to which we do it, even as a District Deputy.

“Unfortunately, as Masons, we don’t promote ourselves enough to our brethren as to what’s available, let alone the rest of

the world,” he added. “We still hear a lot of misperceptions out there; people think you have to be wealthy to live at a Masonic Village, or that they still take all of your assets upon admission (this policy changed in 1988). You can tell people ‘til you’re blue in the face that it’s just not true … we somehow need to do a better job at communicating the facts.”

Communication was vital during his first two years on the board. “When the stock market plummeted, our biggest goal was to keep everything functioning without losing a lot,” he recalls. “The Masonic Villages is set up with funds to be used only for certain things, so there are checks and balances to make sure they are used appropriately and are available as needed for years to come.”

Still, the Masonic Villages suffered along with the rest of the world. The board made one overall decree: to maintain the highest quality of services while keeping the qualified staff.

The philosophy served the organization well as it weathered the economic storm.

Recently, the Masonic Villages have been able to resume their maintenance renovations and even have launched some construction projects.

One of the largest Bro. Jeff has experienced is the $22 million Sturgeon Health Care Center expansion and renovation.

“There’s no question we need to keep our buildings updated as part of our Mission of Love,” Bro. Jeff states. “I always tell my wife [serving on the board] is the best thing I’ve ever done in Freemasonry … taking care of kids, our members and their spouses and widows. … Every year, when we go to Youth Appreciation Day for the Masonic Children’s Home, I think, ‘If you leave here with a dry eye, there’s something wrong with you … you’re not human, you don’t have a heart.’”

As part of his commitment, Bro. Jeff serves on several committees: buildings and grounds, outreach and admissions, and financial and gift planning. He’s served through capital campaigns, admissions policy changes and construction and renovation projects.

And he plans to do so until 2015, when he completes his term.

On the home front, Bro. Jeff practices with his father, Bro. Dr. Albert Biddle Jr., Stephen Bayard Lodge No. 526, Elizabeth, at Biddle Chiropractic Clinic, Elizabeth,

MASONIC VILL AGES 27

January 2014

Pa. Bro. Albert, who started the practice in 1962, has been practicing for 52 years, and Bro. Jeff for 30.

Bro. Jeff was raised in Stephen Bayard Lodge No. 526 in January 1992, and served as Worshipful Master in 2001. He also was a warrant member of Lodge Ad Lucem No. 812, Pittsburgh, in 2007. He served as District Deputy Grand Master of Masonic District 49 from 2004-2011.

“It’s a generational thing,” he said, when asked why he joined the fraternity. Other family members belonging to Stephen Bayard Lodge No. 526 include his grandfather, Bro. Al Biddle Sr.; uncles Bros. Myron Kerr and Jim Sejvar; brothers Bros. Scott and Lance Biddle; and his son, Bro. Derek Biddle. What makes the fraternity most meaningful to him are “the relationships you get to form.”

After attending California State University, Bro. Jeff went on to study at Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa.

There, he met his wife, Susan, and a month after graduation, they married. “Susan has more degrees than a thermometer,” Bro. Jeff says in jest. In addition to her doctorate, she

holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master’s in Education. She works in a particle science laboratory.

At 26 years old, Bro. Derek lives in Los Angeles, where he is putting his theater degree to work acting in short films and Shakespeare performances. His choice of vocation was likely influenced by his parents’ enjoyment of the theater. Bro. Derek began acting and modeling at age 9, and at age 16, he was a finalist in the 2003 L.A. Model Search. He has visited some California lodges since moving to the Golden state, including one with his father, but retains his membership in Pennsylvania.

Bro. Jeff serves as an Elder for Mount Vernon Presbyterian Church and is a past President of the Elizabeth Rotary Club. In his spare time, he enjoys playing golf.

Free time truly isn’t something Bro. Jeff has much of. But he doesn’t think twice about spending it to help further the Masonic Villages’ Mission of Love.

Top Photo: Bro. Jeff with his parents, Yvonne and Bro. Albert Biddle Bottom photo: Bro. Jeff with his wife, Susan, R.W. Past Grand Master William Slater II and his son, Bro. Derek Biddle.

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

Masonic Reunion

HIGHLIGHTS

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

SPECIAL HIGHLIGHT

Grand Master Bateman will present 50-Year, 60-Year and 70-Year Masonic Service Emblems and 75-Year Diamond Jubilee Awards. He will also preview upcoming programs. If you are eligible to receive a milestone Service Emblem in 2014, or if you did not receive it when you were eligible in a previous year, please call 717-367-1121, ext. 33849. Please call to make your reservation by Feb. 14, 2014.

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

REUNION SCHEDULE Thursday, March 13, 2014 Tampa Airport Marriott Hotel, Tampa

Friday, March 14, 2014 Hyatt Regency Sarasota, Sarasota

Saturday, March 15, 2014

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.)

28 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

PRISON BREAK: Escaping the Confines of your House The big screen always looks similar when breaking the “good guy” out of jail.

Under the veil of darkness, James Bond, Captain America or some other protagonist dodges moving spotlights as he approaches a fortified gate lined with barbed wire. Using a conveniently timed vehicle, brute strength or quick thinking, he breaches the prison walls and ducks around corners, narrowly averting guards at each turn. Using masterful lockpicking skills, he frees his unjustly imprisoned friend just as an alarm alerts the guards and red lights strobe. Amidst a barrage of gunfire and an occasional explosion, the two duck and run to safety, eventually looking back to see the prison still flashing on the horizon.

Finding freedom from the confines of your own home may not have the blockbuster appeal of a superhero prison break, but this real-life situation presents real duress, fears and challenges.

“I’ve had people say to me, ‘We love our home, but it has become such a burden. We’re afraid to go outside because our front walkway needs work or the fall leaves are slippery or driving has become more difficult,’” Joy Hubshman, director of sales and marketing for Masonic Village at Dallas, said. “Ten years ago, they made improvements to retire in their homes. Now, the improvements need renovations, and they feel trapped. It’s

rewarding to step into their situation and walk alongside them as they learn about Masonic Villages and choose a home that fits their lifestyle and gives them the freedom to live actively.”

4R easons Why Someone You Know May Need a Prison Break The evidence that someone needs help exploring the freedom they deserve isn’t always obvious. Oftentimes, the signs have more to do with what people are missing rather than what holds them back.

1. T here’s Time to Travel but No One to Watch the House At Masonic Villages, you can let the wind carry you wherever it may blow. With 24-hour security and communities located in safe suburban and rural regions, it’s almost like having a built-in house sitter. You can notify Masonic Villages of your trip, and staff will watch out for your home. If day trips or lunch outings are more your style, there are options to make even the shortest adventures more enjoyable.

By moving to Masonic Village at Dallas, Bro. Bryant Mesick, State College Lodge No. 700, and his wife, Nancy, returned to his “old

stomping grounds” where he grew up. With three children spread out across Pennsylvania and Colorado, the Mesicks couldn’t retire near all of them, so they chose a community that would provide family-like friendships and peace of mind no matter how far they traveled or where they spent their holidays.

“It was wonderful to sit here the Friday after Christmas and watch the snow falling.

We didn’t have to worry about anything.

We can also visit our children and not have to worry about our home or anything at the house,” Mrs. Mesick said.

To get to know their neighbors better, the Mesicks became volunteer shuttle drivers at Masonic Village. They ensure that others can travel anywhere they desire in the neighboring community. Even without wheels, the Mesicks have an entire university’s resources at their doorstep. “From our front door, I can walk to the nearest point on campus, the football stadium, in five minutes,” Bro. Mesick said.

“Misericordia University is a great place to have next to us.” The Mesicks hold university library cards, attend plays and performances for a reduced price (thanks to a Masonic Village discount) and enjoy walks around the campus.

MASONIC VILL AGES 29

January 2014

2. Housework is a Pain Maintenance-free living means having the freedom to enjoy life without the burden of tasks and chores you don’t mind leaving behind. One monthly service fee at Masonic Villages covers an abundance of services like meal plans, twice monthly housekeeping, landscaping, residential maintenance and repairs, and more.

Elwood and Fern Borrell have worked hard their entire lives. Mrs. Borrell retired as the supervisor of the egg room at Longenecker’s Hatchery in Elizabethtown. Mr. Borrell worked for 44 years as a plumber and heavy machinery driver with W.E. Mohr out of Bainbridge, Pa. “During snow storms, I used to work two to three days pushing snow without coming home. One night, I got home and finally laid down at 2 a.m. I got a phone call and found out that some people were trapped because of the snow,” he said. Mr. Borrell dug 12 more cars out of the snow that night. One girl was trapped in her car, crying, with snow up to the window, when Elwood rescued her.

Now that they live at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, the Borrells don’t worry about snowy nights since Masonic Village handles the outdoor landscaping and maintenance.

They also choose to eat many of their meals in the campus’s six restaurants. “I enjoy their eats,” Mr. Borrell said. “If I don’t like what I chose, I just pick something else.

“I don’t have to cut grass or worry about painting or upgrading. … Now I have the freedom to come and go as I please.” - Bro. Thomas Buck There’s always plenty to eat.”

“I enjoy it, too,” Mrs. Borrell added. “Doing housework was hard. My husband helped a lot, but it was getting harder.” Now, she can sit back and relax while chefs cook their food and housekeepers clean their apartment.

They’re so happy with their retirement choice that they’ve already referred three friends to move to Masonic Village.

3. Life is Unpredictable When life gives you lemons, Masonic Villages helps you to make lemonade by providing high quality health care options and resources to help you recover and stay as active as possible. In some cases, short term rehabilitation, personal care or nursing services might provide the best options. Other times, assistance through home care or other services can provide the extra touch necessary to help people thrive on their own.

Before Bro. Thomas Buck, P.M., Solomon’s Lodge No. 3, Philadelphia, moved to Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, he had a medical emergency and tried to call his sister-inlaw for help. Instead, he reached a young

woman from Florida, Ashley Yasick, and left a message. As Ms. Yasick shared in a CBS 12 TV news story, she heard his voicemail and knew he needed help. She researched where he lived online and called the local police, who soon arrived at Bro. Buck’s house with an ambulance.

A short time after this miraculous event, Bro. Buck moved to Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, where his family is confident that all of his needs are met.

“I joined the wellness center where I have professional trainers. They tailor a program for you. The staff there are very knowledgeable.

They encourage you, not push you,” Bro. Buck said. The workout regimens have helped Bro. Buck to make a full recovery.

“The people are wonderful. I’m in a controlled environment, but I still have my freedom,” Bro. Buck said. “I don’t have to cut grass or worry about painting or upgrading. I had fallen behind in the maintenance of my house. Now I have the freedom to come and go as I please. I cook breakfast and lunch and eat dinner in the [restaurant]. Everything that’s taken care of for me – my apartment, food, the campus – is excellent.”

30 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

“It’s rewarding to … walk alongside them as they learn about Masonic Villages and choose a home that fits their lifestyle and gives them the freedom to live actively.” - Ms. Hubshman 4. R elationships Are More Important Than Ever Each Masonic Village offers a different environment which gives residents the opportunity to choose a location that best fits their lifestyles, but Masonic Villages all share a common priority: people. This creates a close-knit sense of community at each Village.

John Nock moved to Florida after retiring, but later moved back to the Sewickley area so he could live within nine miles of his four children and eight grandchildren. He moved to Masonic Village at Sewickley in September 2013 and fit in right away. He was impressed when marketing staff took him for a tour and people started introducing themselves to him immediately.

“There are a lot of things you can do, and the people are all very, very friendly. No matter where you go, everybody introduces themselves to you. I sit with different people at meals each day so we get to meet each other,” Mr. Nock said. The hardest part, he

says, is remembering all of the friendly faces since he’s met hundreds of residents.

“I made this move earlier because right now, I’m healthy enough that I can get along for myself,” he explained. Mr. Nock enjoys woodworking and hopes to set up a space where he can make furniture. In the meantime, he’s enjoying events like the Fall Festival and discovering everything Masonic Village offers.

Ms. Hubshman said.

When you’ve chosen a community, ask for an application, and fill it out. The sales and marketing staff will call you to talk about the application and follow up by providing a letter of verification and a resident agreement.

If you’d rather plan ahead for the future, you can fill out the priority list application and submit a deposit to join the waiting list. No matter what you choose, staff will walk you through the process to ensure you understand your options every step of the way.

If you or someone you know is ready for freedom at Masonic Villages, call a sales and marketing representative to start planning a “prison break”: Masonic Village at Dallas: 866-851-4243

Every Prison Break Needs a Plan Masonic Village at Elizabethtown: 800-676-6452 Fortunately, making a plan to “break out” of your house is simple when you partner with one of Masonic Villages’ sales and marketing representatives. The first step is to start exploring your options. Contact the Masonic Village nearest to you, or explore all of the Masonic Villages at www.masonicvillages. org to see which one fits your personality and lifestyle. Schedule a personal tour.

“You can come back as many times as you wish to explore our communities, and the sales and marketing representatives are happy to answer any questions you may have,”

Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill: 610-828-5760 Masonic Village at Sewickley: 412-749-6862 Masonic Village at Warminster (personal care & nursing only): 215-672-2500, ext. 116

MASONIC VILL AGES 31

January 2014

Qty. Capital Need MASONIC VILLAGE AT ELIZABETHTOWN 1 Pulse oximeter 12 Digital cameras 1 Hospitality cart 1 Ping pong table 5 iPads 6 Thermometers 5 Computer tablets 3 Digital blood pressure monitors 1 Electric lift recliner 3 Refrigerators 1 Digital keyboard accessories 6 TVs - living rooms 2 Rock & Go chairs 3 Low beds 1 Snoozelin equipment 8 Washer/dryer sets 1 Sleeper chair 1 Vital sign machine 1 Golf cart with weather cover 7 Hydraulic sinks for Hair Care Salon 3 Pianos (Roland - acoustic) 1 Treadmill for Rehab Dept.

1 Piano (Roland - grand) CHILDREN’S HOME NEEDS 1 File cabinet 2 Shampooers 1 Camera 1 Door (bedroom) 1 Garage door 2 Carpets - screened-in porch 1 Roof 1 Chevy Express BLEILER COTTAGE NEEDS 1 Blu-ray player 1 Garden hose and reel 1 Outdoor carpet 1 Computer 1 Refrigerator 1 Gazebo MASONIC VILLAGE AT LAFAYETTE HILL District of Columbia Museums w/lunch and transportation Harvest Ball event Baltimore Aquarium w/lunch and transportation 1 Sit-to-stand lift, power base Broadway Shows w/transportation MASONIC VILLAGE AT SEWICKLEY 1 Hand rail tilt and roll scale 2 Outdoor tents (size 20 x 20) 1 ARJO sit-to-stand lift MASONIC VILLAGE AT DALLAS 1 Horseshoe set 1 Portable fire ring 1 Wii game set 1 Bocce ball equipment 2 Handicap accessible picnic tables 1 Gazebo 1 Rooftop patio

Cost Per Item $125 $150 $500 $500 $600 $650 $700 $750 $900 $900 $1,000 $1,300 $1,500 $1,600 $2,000 $2,000 $2,169 $3,200 $3,500 $3,795 $6,000 $10,200 $15,000 $300 $300 $500 $848 $1,000 $1,415 $5,900 $15,737 $100 $100 $500 $600 $1,300 $2,500 $2,400 $2,500 $3,150 $3,500 $3,700 $1,550 $1,800 $4,100 $75 $190 $300 $300 $900 $10,532 $14,940

MASONIC VILLAGES’

2014

WISH LIST ITEMS OFFICE OF GIFT PLANNING

800-599-6454

Thank you to the following individuals who have provided for the following items since the last issue: Bleiler Caring Cottage Bro. Bob Duckett: Washer and dryer set Bro. Paul Mitchell Jr.: Special activities Masonic Children’s Home Bro. Charles Baltzer: Gift toward vehicle purchase Bro. Bob Duckett: Desk and wooden cabinet Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Bro. Henry Clay: Channel 95 Bro. Richard A. Holt: Electric recliners Bro. Jeffrey and Nancy Hoyt: Wheelchairs Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation Grand Lodge of New Jersey: Ottoman in the Atrium at Memorial Hall There is an all-inclusive wish list posted on the Masonic Charities website at MasonicCharitiesPA.org, or feel free to contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454.

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

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.

Guaranteed Lifetime Income

With a new year upon us, the need for a reliable income source is of special importance. Why not consider replacing that low rate CD or money market fund with a higher payout rate from a charitable gift annuity? For greater savings, you can transfer any stock or mutual fund (except from an IRA) to fund your annuity and avoid taxes you would have incurred on the sale of such holdings.

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

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

2. Possible avoidance of capital gain taxes.

3. A charitable tax deduction.

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

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

SAMPLE GUARANTEED LIFETIME RATES For One Life For Two Lives Age Rate Age Rate 70 5.1% 70 & 75 4.8% 75 5.8% 75 & 80 5.3% 77 6.2% 78 & 81 5.6% 81 7.0% 83 & 83 6.3% 85 7.8% 85 & 87 7.0% 90+ 9.0% 85 & 90 7.3% Note: This is a partial listing. Rates exist for any combination of ages.

Minimum contribution $5,000. Minimum age 65.

COMPLETE AND MAIL THIS FORM TO:

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

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