The Pennsylvania
May 2010 • Volume LVII No. 2
Bro. Mark Twain
Bro. George Washington
Bro. Theodore Roosevelt
Bro. William Shakespeare
Invite Great Men To Continue Our Legacy
A One Day
Masonic Journey Bro. Benjamin Franklin
Bro. Gerald Ford
Bro. Edwin E. “Buzz” Aldrin
Bro. Larry Christenson
Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania Announces the June 2010
QUARTERLY COMMUNICATION The June Quarterly Communication, open to all Master Masons, will be held at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown on
SATURDAY, JUNE 26, AT 10 A.M.
Lunch will be provided immediately following the meeting. Masonic dress is required.
Automatic Dues Payments are Convenient & Efficient In an effort to modernize the dues payment method in line with the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance, R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon has announced a new automated withdrawal dues payment program which will be implemented through Payliance at no cost to lodge members. The new method makes the dues collection process much quicker and easier both for members and lodge secretaries. Each member of the lodge may have his dues paid by simply authorizing automatic withdrawals from either his savings or checking account. By allowing this method of payment, members take care of their obligation and help the lodge
to pay its obligations on time. Payment can be made in full or by installments, and can significantly reduce, and hopefully eliminate, suspensions for non-payment of dues. In addition, members may make contributions to their lodge charity and/or Masonic Charities, should they wish. They will even be able to use this method to pay for lodge events and activities in the same manner. Grand Master Sturgeon highly recommends and encourages all members to participate in this new program. To enroll, simply request a form from your lodge secretary, fill it out and return it to him.
13th Annual Meeting in the Hills Friday, June 18, 2010
Held Outdoors at Christner’s Grove near Dawson, PA • Casual Dress--No Shorts, Blue Jeans, or Collarless Shirts--Light Jacket recommended. A 12 oz. New York Strip Steak Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. Following dinner, a lodge meeting hosted by James Cochran Lodge No. 614, Connellsville, will be held. Last year, Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W. Grand Master, announced that a significant first-ever event would take place during this year’s meeting. As the honored guest, he plans to fulfill that promise!
Tickets are $25 and may be ordered from Bro. Richard E. Bigley at 107 Ashton Drive, Mt. Pleasant, PA 15666. Please send a selfaddressed stamped envelope with payment. Checks should be made payable to: CDS Building Corp. All ticket orders must be received by Monday, June 14, 2010. Phone: (724) 547-2367 or E-mail: bigs@zoominternet.net
THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON ® VOL. LVII, MAY 2010, NO. 2
©2010 The R.W. Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of PA
Inside this Issue...
EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W.G.M. Jay W. Smith, R.W.D.G.M. Robert J. Bateman, R.W.S.G.W. Raymond T. Dietz, R.W.J.G.W. Jeffrey W. Coy, R.W.G.T. Mark A. Haines, R.W.G.S. EDITORIAL STAFF Tina L. Raybold - Production Coordinator Rich Johnson - Graphic Designer Thomas R. Labagh - Executive Director, PMYF, Consultant Masonic Library & Museum of PA Staff (Publication No. USPS 426-140) May 2010 Issue of The Pennsylvania Freemason ® Published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Articles and photographs to be considered for publication should be sent with local Masonic authority to the address above, to the attention of the The Pennsylvania Freemason ® or e-mailed to pafreemason@masonicvillagespa.org. Except by special arrangement, all articles, photographs and artwork become the property of the Grand Lodge.
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Renaissance Q & A with the Grand Master Annual Grand Communication One Day Masonic Journey Help for Our Heroes Adopt a Resident Masonic Temple Tours Meet A Modern Day Renaissance Mason
Published by the Masonic Villages, owned and operated by the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania, as a means of soliciting the physical and financial support of the members, their families and the public in general. Periodical postage paid at Elizabethtown, PA and additional mailing offices.
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Good Deeds, Indeed Local Happenings Get Your Masonic Kicks on Route 6
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.
24 PA Masonic Youth Foundation Lifeskills Grads Promote Community Partnership Teamwork Leads to Growth Rainbow Gets Girls Ready for Life
STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP (Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United States Code) May. 1, 2010, The Pennsylvania Freemason ®, published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Publishers: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Editor: Thomas K. Sturgeon. Owner: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Known bondholders: none. No advertising handled. Free distribution averages 134,000 each quarter. I certify that the statements made by me are correct and complete.
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2010 Wish List New Services: Hospice Care & Home Care Paw Prints for Pennsylvania Patriots Where Caring is a Tradition Statewide Options 20th Century Renaissance Leaders Set Path for 21st Century Renaissance A Century of Service
Thomas K. Sturgeon, Editor Mailing address changes If your address on the back cover of this magazine is not exactly as you have provided it to us, please be aware that addresses are modified through the various mailing process requirements required by the U.S. Postal Service. If you have any questions or would like to inform us of a change in address, please contact the Office of Gift Planning at (800) 599-6454 or giving@ masonicvillagespa.org. Postmaster: Send address changes to: The Pennsylvania Freemason®, c/o Masonic Village, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022-2199.
Subscribe to the online edition! pagrandlodge.org
If you would prefer to receive an electronic version of the magazine for your convenience and/ or to save the fraternity printing and mailing costs, please make your request by e-mailing pafreemason@masonicvillagespa.org. An electronic version of the magazine is also available online at www.pagrandlodge.org.
Grand Lodge
Q
&A
with the Grand Master From January through March, R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon and the Grand Lodge Officers traveled throughout the state to meet with brethren at the 25 Renaissance Visitations. Grand Master Sturgeon made the following comments about the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance changes: “I made a commitment when I made all of the changes that are so controversial among all Pennsylvania Freemasons that I would stand in front of all of you to explain why I did what I did, what I think the problems are and what my solutions are as I see them. And I do not shrink from that duty.”
“We can’t afford to continue to sit back because our membership decline will not solve itself.” 4
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“The decisions I made are what I truly believe are the best for the fraternity. If we want our fraternity to be around for future generations, we need to do the right things. This fraternity hasn’t changed much at all in 200 years, yet the world all around us has. The right thing today is to make it more contemporary with 2010 than 1810. “We can’t afford to continue to sit back because our membership decline will not solve itself. For 50 straight years, we lost 2-3 percent of our members every year. If we keep up that trend, people won’t even recognize us 50 years from now, or know who the Freemasons were.
We’ll become a name of the past.” “When I joined 45 years ago, there were 250,000+ Masons in Pennsylvania. There are 113,000 today. We can survive today at 113,000, but if we do nothing, next year we’re going to have 110,000 and the year after that 107,000 … and eventually the fraternity will become unsustainable. “The obligation is ours. Are we content to ride into the sunset, or are we willing to do what’s needed to make Freemasonry come alive once again? “I love this fraternity enough to take all of the criticism that I’m getting. I love it enough to stand up here and tell you that I believe we need to change it to make our lodges and the Grand Lodge better and stronger. I’m in for the long haul. If you love it too, join with me to restore it. “I don’t ask any Freemasons to agree with every single element of the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance. People have their own priorities in different places. The overall good, however, is what’s most important. We need to overcome our different perspectives and focus on our pride in and love for our fraternity, and commit to ensuring its future. “We need to do it today!”
Grand Lodge The following questions are among those asked most of the Grand Master during his Renaissance Visitations. His answers follow.
Question: Grand Master, how do you respond
to the criticism that you have violated your oath and obligation by printing the ritual?
Answer: First, it is important to remember
that the word “ritual” never appears in our obligation and secondly, there is no mention in the “Ahiman Rezon” concerning printing of the ritual. Most Pennsylvania brothers do not realize that we are one of the few Grand Lodges that did not already have a ritual manual; most others’, in fact, are word-for-word. We have had open installations of the new District Deputy Grand Masters for years now, and much of what has been printed in the new ritual manual is exactly what we have opened to the public in these ceremonies. Most of the more sacred portions of our ritual have been coded in the manual using the first letter of the word which, in my opinion, has preserved the integrity of our ritual. The general concept of the degree ritual is already fully disclosed on the Internet and in various publications. Google “Freemasonry ritual,” turn on the Discovery or History channel and you’ll find out we don’t have any secrets. The secret art and mystery of the fraternity does not lie in oaths and obligations, but rather in our bonds of brotherly love, our rich history and our matchless charity. If we truly believe that a brother should take care of his family, community, place of worship and have good work ethics, then we must be more sensitive to the time constraints placed on our lodge officers in their personal lives and with the lodge. The ritual manual will be an aide in becoming more proficient in learning our beautiful work. That being said, out of respect for our tradition, I have mandated a strict usage of the manual and will penalize any brother or lodge who violates the restrictions.
Question: If we want more people to learn the ritual, then why have district-wide degree teams?
Answer: It’s time we do the degree work better
than we’ve ever done it before. Oftentimes when we bring a person from the preparing room door and into this beautiful Masonic light, there is nobody on the sidelines and we do very mediocre ritual. Then we ask
ourselves, “I wonder why he never came back?” We need to bring five or 10 people into the sun. We need 50-60 people on the sidelines. We need to have an all-star degree team putting on the degrees and impress the new candidates by doing it with perfection. Prior to the Renaissance, when a candidate received the three degrees, he was required to memorize the ritual, oath and obligation, working tools and grips. This is one reason why change is necessary. Believe it or not, there are a lot of people who will not join the fraternity because they don’t think they can do it. So they stay away. Is our function to make good men better, or to teach them how to memorize a bunch of words that they will never use again unless they choose to be an officer?
“Why shouldn’t we invite a worthy man to be a member? Do you like this fraternity? Are you proud of it? Then invite your son, grandson, nephew, best friend, neighbor or co-worker to enjoy the benefits of Freemasonry and help it flourish at the same time!” Why don’t we teach them where we came from, who we are, about the Shriners’ Hospitals for children who are crippled or burned, the learning centers of the Scottish Rite, the Knights Templar eye foundation, and all the good things we do … so that when a man receives his Master Mason degree and he walks out onto the street and someone asks him, “What are the Masons all about?” instead of just saying, “I can’t tell you because it’s all a secret,” let’s prepare him to talk about our greatness! We shouldn’t be ashamed of what we are. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished in this world. Aren’t you?
Answer: Anyone can still blackball a
candidate if he chooses; the only difference today is, if the candidate passes the ballot, the objecting brother must go to his District Deputy Grand Master (DDGM) and explain why the man is not worthy of membership. Upon investigating the situation, if the reason is found to be a valid Masonic objection, the candidate will be rejected by order of the DDGM. He is only person who will know who objected or why. This process ensures that candidates are being rejected only for valid reasons and not petty personal ones.
Question: Grand Master, what do you have against neck ties?
Answer: Absolutely nothing! In fact, I have
had a number of new Masonic ties designed in Jerry Garcia-like fashion which I wear quite often and have received many compliments on. These will be provided to all first-line petition signers throughout my term as my personal “thank you” for being part of my Masonic Renaissance team. If you’re referring to my change in the dress code not requiring members to wear a necktie to lodge, that is just another small step toward making this fraternity more contemporary. I, personally, will not come to a lodge meeting without wearing a necktie. However, I also acknowledge that we have many decent young men in this country today who don’t wear ties or even own a sport jacket. In May, June and September, some people won’t go to lodge meetings because without air conditioning, it’s too hot to wear a suit. That’s a shame. I don’t know of a church or club where you can’t go in without a necktie today; it seems that they would rather have people enter their sanctuaries or dine in their restaurants in less formal attire than to not have them come at all. The world has changed; we need to change with it by being willing to make this fraternity more open and welcoming to all brothers. So, go ahead and wear a necktie if you want to wear one; I’m not telling you that you can’t. In fact, you won’t be alone; I’ll be wearing one, too.
Question: Aren’t we becoming less selective/
lowering our standards by requiring three black balls to reject a candidate?
More Q & A on following pages
May 2010
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*Projected decline based on past trends without implementing the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance
Question: Pennsylvania Freemasonry has been around for more than 280 years. Why do we need a Renaissance to change it now?
Answer: Over the past 50 years, membership has declined and
with it, so has our income. In those same 50 years, the expenses of the Grand Lodge and of the local lodges have risen greatly, and we still must maintain the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia and ensure the perpetuity of the Masonic Villages and our Masonic Charities. All across the state, there are small lodges that can barely keep 6
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their doors open because they can’t even afford to pay their taxes and their utilities. We can’t overlook the fact that we need to pay the bills and be financially strong. If we can’t afford a building to meet in or have enough members to afford to even to buy the collars and aprons, the fraternity will fade into oblivion. It’s time we do something to revive this great fraternity before our membership decline becomes a catastrophic situation from which we are unable to recover.
Grand Lodge
*Projected decline based on past trends without implementing the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance
Question: Won’t the One Day Masonic Journey be a short-term, 2 percent improvement. As for these members’ participation levels, band-aid approach to the membership decline?
Answer: One of the biggest myths permeating our fraternity is
that new brethren who join the fraternity through a one day class are less active and less likely to maintain their membership. Here are the facts: if you look at Pennsylvania Masons within a five-year span who join the fraternity the traditional way, we lose 16 percent of those brothers for non-payment of dues. In 2004, when we took in over 5,000 Masons in one year, we lost 14 percent over five years, a
there are Worshipful Masters and lodge officers all across the state who joined during that one day class. So it works. Let’s give the men who work midnight and afternoon shifts a chance to join the fraternity. This approach is not short-sighted; on the contrary, it works hand-in-hand with allowing selective invitation, enabling us to grow substantially. By promoting our fraternity, educating and welcoming quality men who otherwise were afraid to ask for fear of rejection or the unknown, we are becoming a more friendly fraternity that more men will want to be part of.
May 2010
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CPI-Consumer Price Index, a measure of the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for a sample of consumer goods and services.
Question: Considering the recent economy, how is the Grand Lodge into the Masonic light. Obviously, most of us would much prefer the positioned financially for the future?
Answer: As you can clearly see in the chart above, for many years
our lodge dues and initiation fees have not risen sufficiently to consider the cost of inflation, causing many of our lodges to merge or disband. To remedy this situation, we have one of two choices: we raise our dues substantially, or we do a better job of bringing new members 8
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second option. By inviting worthy men to become members, we are honoring them and providing them with an outstanding opportunity to benefit from Freemasonry, and helping the fraternity to flourish at the same time.
Grand Lodge
Annual Grand Communication On Dec. 28, hundreds of Pennsylvania Freemasons and their guests, as well as distinguished guests from 17 Grand Jurisdictions and 16 Masonic bodies bade farewell to R.W. Past Grand Master Stephen Gardner and thanked him for his leadership. Bro. Richard E. Fletcher, Executive Secretary of the Masonic Service Association (MSA) and Past Grand Master of Vermont, presented a plaque to Bro. Gardner for his support of the Hospital Visitation Program of MSA. Bro. Gardner also was presented with his Past Grand Master’s Jewel, Apron, Lapel Pin and a Past Grand Master’s Commission.
More than 1,500 guests attended the installation of R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon on Dec. 28. Celebration, patriotism and energy of change permeated the event, culminating with entertainment by Lee Greenwood. In offering congratulations, Bro. Norman L. Christensen, Deputy for Wisconsin, Supreme Council, A.A.S.R., N.M.J., presented Grand Master Sturgeon a Green Bay Packers helmet. On behalf of Masonic District 7, District Deputy Grand Master Edward R. Stein presented an Eagles shirt with the Grand Master’s title printed on the back.
Pennsylvania Franklin Medal Recipients Presented by Mark A. Haines, R.W. Grand Secretary ..........................................................Stephen Gardner, R.W. Past Grand Master Stephen Gardner, R.W. Past Grand Master .....................................................Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W. Grand Master Larry A. Buzzard, Director of the Ritualistic Work .........................................Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W. Grand Master Jeffrey W. Coy, R.W. Grand Treasurer .............................................................Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W. Grand Master The Pennsylvania Franklin Medal was created in 1979 to honor distinguished Master Masons for their outstanding service to the Craft in general and Pennsylvania in particular. It has been awarded sparingly since then, maintaining very high standards for its presentation, and including among its recipients some of the most renowned Freemasons of our time. It is worn with Masonic regalia on formal occasions.
1,500 guests wave American flags during a patriotic song by Lee Greenwood.
May 2010
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ONE DAY MASON MASO INVITE GOOD MEN TO BECOME MASONS! Saturday, October 30, 2010
Reach out to family members, neighbors, co-workers and friends, and share your Masonic values, experiences, friendships and benefits. Take advantage of this unique event – ideal for quality men busy with family, work and volunteer commitments. THE ONE-DAY MASONIC JOURNEY WILL BE HELD AT 13 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS STATEWIDE. Approved candidates for membership may receive all three Blue Lodge degrees, and if they desire, progress through Scottish Rite and Shrine Freemasonry, all in one day. It’s also a great opportunity for current Blue Lodge members to expand their Masonic experience to include Scottish Rite and Shrine Freemasonry.
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Grand Lodge
ONIC JOURNEY
WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? WWW.BAPAMASON.COM For more information, contact your local lodge leadership or the Grand Lodge at 1-800-462-0430.
TENTATIVE SCHEDULE 6:00 - 7:45 a.m. Registration of Candidates (coffee and donuts provided) 8:00 - 8:05 a.m. Grand Lodge opens, in each location 8:05 - 9:05 a.m. Entered Apprentice Mason Degree Conferral 9:05 - 9:25 a.m. Entered Apprentice Education 9:25 - 9:45 a.m. Break 9:45 - 10:30 a.m. Fellowcraft Mason Degree Conferral 10:30 - 10:50 a.m. Fellowcraft Education 10:50 - 11:05 a.m. Break 11:05 - 12:15 p.m. Master Mason Degree Conferral 12:15 - 1:00 p.m. Lunch 1:00 - 1:20 p.m. Master Masons Education 1:20 - 1:30 p.m. Grand Lodge Closes
1:30 - 1:45 p.m. York Rite Information Session 1:45 - 2:00 p.m. Break 2:00 - 3:25 p.m. Scottish Rite Class, for those who wish to join 3:25 - 3:40 p.m. Break 3:40 - 5:05 p.m. Shrine Class, for those who wish to join LOCATIONS Valley of Allentown 1533 Hamilton Street, Allentown, PA 18102 Valley of Altoona Broad Ave & 22nd, Altoona, PA 16603 Valley of Bloomsburg 150 Market Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815 Valley of Coudersport 111 East 2nd Street, Coudersport, PA 16915 Zem Zem Shrine Ctr. 2525 West 38th Street, Erie, PA 16506
Valley of Harrisburg 2701 North Third Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110 Valley of New Castle 110 Lincoln Avenue, New Castle, PA 16101 Lu Lu Shrine Center 5140 Butler Pike, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462 Valley of Pittsburgh 3719 Terrace Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15261 Valley of Reading 310 South Seventh Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 Valley of Scranton 420 North Washington Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503 Valley of Uniontown Pittsburgh & Peters Streets, Uniontown, PA 15401 Valley of Williamsport 348 Market Street, Williamsport, PA 17703
MEMBERSHIP GROWTH INCENTIVES • First line signers (for the year – not only the one day class) receive a Masonic Renaissance Blue necktie • Second petition receives a Masonic Renaissance Orange necktie • Third petition receives a Masonic Renaissance Green necktie • Fourth petition receives a Masonic Renaissance Red necktie • Fifth petition receives a $50 savings bond • Tenth petition receives a Masonic wrist watch
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HELP FOR OUR HEROES
PENNSYLVANIA MASONS CARE In addition to providing pre-paid calling cards for troops serving overseas in the desert, we will support seriously injured troops as they recuperate in the hospital and return home. Show your support by donating at each lodge meeting and function. Remember to give the community an opportunity to participate during special events! 12
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Grand Lodge
Supporting Our Troops Where They Need it Most Pennsylvania Freemasons continue their strong support of our military under the direction of R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon through a new program title, “Help for Our Heroes.” While donations will continue to provide pre-paid calling cards to Pennsylvania military units as they deploy to war zones or upon request by those already deployed, Help for Our Heroes will also focus on providing calling cards and other essential needs to hospitalized military men and women.
THE NEED IS GREAT. The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, through your generous donations, is sending 100 calling cards each month to injured troops recovering at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany, because casualty rates continue to rise. Calling cards also have been sent to Bagram’s SSG Heath N. Craig Joint Theater Hospital in Afghanistan for troops receiving medical care there. Col. and Bro. Harris Brooks, Brotherhood Lodge No. 126, Philadelphia, has meetings scheduled with representatives from stateside military hospitals in Washington, D.C., and VA Hospitals in Pennsylvania to ascertain what their special needs are for patients, whether it be clothing, upgrades for patient rooms, etc. Funds contributed to Help for Our Heroes will go toward meeting those needs as well. Grand Master Sturgeon’s dedication to our military was represented through the “Missing Men Table & Honors Ceremony” that Col. and Bro. Harris Brooks led at the beginning of the Annual Grand Communication banquet. The moving ceremony, full of symbolism, honors our Prisoners of War, those Missing in Action and Killed in Action. It can be modified to suit local requirements and occasions. At the Annual Grand Communication banquet, the ceremony was conducted in the following fashion:
A table is set for one, an empty place setting representing service men and women who are unable to be in attendance. The chair is empty as a reminder of his absence, but saved for his hoped return. While attendees remain standing for a moment of silent prayer, the Honor Guard places six caps, to represent the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and a civilian, on the table. The table is round, to show our everlasting concern for these missing men and women. A slice of lemon on the bread plate is to remind us of the bitter fate of those captured and missing in a foreign land. A pinch of salt symbolizes the tears endured by those missing and their families who seek answers. The glass is inverted, to symbolize his inability to share this evening’s toast. The single red rose, displayed in a vase, reminds us of the life of each of the missing, and signifies the blood they may have shed in sacrifice to ensure the freedom of our beloved United States of America. The vase is tied with a ribbon, a symbol of our unyielding determination to account for our comrades who are not among us tonight. The candle is the light of hope which lives in our hearts to illuminate their way home, away from their captors, to the open arms of a grateful nation. It is lit to remember that America will always be the light in a world of darkness. The Bible represents the strength gained through faith to sustain those lost from our country, founded as one nation under God. The American flag reminds us that many of them may never return, and have paid the supreme sacrifice to ensure our freedom.
May 2010 13
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How a Lodge Can Adopt a Resident One of the elements of the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance, adopting a resident or couple at the Masonic Villages, provides an important personal connection between the fraternity and the Masonic Villages. Residents benefit by knowing they have a support system of Masons who care about them, and lodges can benefit from the wealth of knowledge and experiences residents have to share about life and Freemasonry. Adopting a resident has been made easy: 1. Stay informed. Each Lodge Secretary has a listing of the names of Masonic Village residents throughout the state who are already sponsored by that lodge, their birthdates and whether they are living in the retirement living, personal care or nursing area. Masonic Village staff will communicate any status changes for “adopted” residents to the Lodge Secretary and the District Deputy Grand Master. 2. Contact the Masonic Villages. When your lodge is ready to adopt a resident, contact the Masonic Village employee listed at the right representing
the desired location. These employees maintain a record of people and lodges involved in the program. If your lodge has a specific person in mind, these contacts can help you get connected. They can also suggest residents who would benefit from the adopt-a-resident program. 3. Identify needs and activities. The Masonic Village contact person will provide you with basic information about that resident so your lodge has an understanding of how to best serve that person. She will also answer any of your questions throughout any of the stages of the adopt-a-resident program. 4. Build a relationship. Get to know the residents and their specific interests and needs. Collaborate with lodge members to visit and spend time with them. Members may want to take residents for ice cream, provide and share a favorite meal, send encouraging cards, and give gifts for birthdays and holidays. Most importantly, look after residents’ general needs and show them how important they are.
Masonic Village at Elizabethtown: Cynthia Hollinger, director of volunteer services (717) 367-1121, ext. 33175 or cholling@masonicvillagespa.org Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill: Lynn Christ, director of social services (610) 825-6100, ext. 1271 or lchrist@masonicvillagespa.org Diana Sody, social services/admissions coordinator (610) 825-6100, ext. 1214 or dsody@masonicvillagespa.org Masonic Village at Sewickley: Ann Beck, director of activities (412) 741-1400, ext. 3200 or abeck@masonicvillagespa.org Cindy Stefl, director of personal care, admissions & social services (412) 741-1400, ext. 3600 or cstefl@masonicvillagespa.org Masonic Village at Warminster: Anne Maher, administrator (215) 672-2500, ext. 112 or amaher@ masonicvillagespa.org Joyce Wadsworth, director of admissions & social services (215) 672-2500, ext. 116 or jwadswor@masonicvillagespa.org
Masonic Temple Tours
By Bro. Dennis P. Buttleman, Curator, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania One of R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon’s visions for the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance was to enhance the tour of the Masonic Temple with professionally-recorded descriptions of our glorious headquarters of Pennsylvania Freemasonry. This vision is now a reality. Bro. William Boharsik, Chief Mechanic of the Masonic Temple, installed 14 compact disc players and speakers throughout the building. The improved sound system will also benefit the lodges that use these rooms. The services of Bro. Alfred Goodrich, owner of Silverstone Studios, were secured to select, compose and record the background music for the tour and to produce the compact discs (if one listens carefully, he can hear Bro. Goodrich himself playing the cello in the Ben Franklin Room!). A member of Jerusalem Lodge No. 506, Bro. Goodrich contracted Gary Bridges, a professionallyrecognized voice-over artist, to narrate the tour. Mr. Bridges is the voice of Disney as well as the Vice President of the Board of Trustees of Settlement Music School in Philadelphia. The 14
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magnificent recordings, uniquely designed for each room, ensures that everyone taking the tour will hear a consistent dialogue while the guide, using a laser, demonstrates what is being described. Before Bro. Goodrich and Mr. Bridges became involved with the project, The Masonic Library and Museum staff reviewed, revised and enhanced the tour script to include all seven lodge halls, corridors, stair halls, banquet hall, and the Benjamin Franklin Room. In addition, the Library and Museum are now included. The tour provides a wonderful description of the decoration, design and architectural features of the building. As Historian Michael R. Harrison writes for the Historic American Buildings Survey, “The 1873 Masonic Temple on Broad Street is one of the grandest fraternal buildings erected in the United States during the 19th century. Its monumental exterior and fantastically ornamented interior stand as a testimony to the prominence of Freemasonry in post-Civil War America … Virtually all of this decoration survives, as does most of the building’s
eclectic, custom-made furniture – factors that contributed to the Temple being designated a National Historic Landmark in 1985.” The Masonic Temple has been open for tours since its dedication in 1873. In the beginning, the building was open only in good weather. In the early years, not all streets were paved and during inclement weather, the floors were a cleaning and safety concern. Today, the Masonic Temple is open for tours (on rainy days also): Tues.–Fri. at 10 and 11 a.m., and at 1, 2, and 3 p.m. On Sat., tours are at 10 and 11 a.m. and noon. Call (215) 988-1917 for more information.
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A Modern-Day Renaissance Man Renaissance Man: noun a person who has wide interests and is an expert in several areas (Merriam-Webster Dictionary) Kenton E. McElhattan: Entrepreneur, engineer, airman, instructor, author, tree farmer, theologian, Mason. Also husband of Florence (for 64 years!), father of two, grandfather of seven and great-grandfather of six.
One might consider the above definitions synonymous. A member of Edenburg Lodge No. 550, in his hometown of Knox, Pa., since 1946, Bro. McElhattan was Coroneted a 33° Mason in September 2000. K.E., as many of his friends call him, considers Freemasonry “a wonderful organization, nonreligious, nonsectarian, that makes good men better – a value I’ve held all my life.” Bro. McElhattan became interested in Freemasonry while serving as an Air Force flight engineer on a B-24 Liberator during European combat missions during World War II. The bomber pilot was a Freemason, “a prince of a guy,” K.E. recalls. Upon his discharge, K.E. noticed other quality men in his hometown were members and eventually asked his neighbor about the fraternity. He said, “Ken, I’ve been waiting for you to ask me that question for a number of years.” K.E. replied, “I didn’t know you had to ask.” …Which is one of many reasons why Bro. McElhattan believes the 21st Century Masonic Renaissance is “absolutely crucial for the survival of Freemasonry.” “People think it’s a secret organization, which it’s not,” he said. “Too many Masons go through the first three degrees or even through the chairs and don’t tell their wives a thing about what’s going on, and that’s not right. Opening up the installation ceremonies to women and families is one of the greatest things we could do to help people understand Freemasonry.”
He envies the Grand Master’s commitment, admitting he would have been much more active in Freemasonry had he not spent most of his life traveling the world for business in the mining industry, another of his life’s passions. He is responsible for several mining machinery designs and methods patents, and advised miners and mine owners across the globe on how to make life underground safer. He also taught a course in Mining Methods at Pennsylvania State College for more than a decade. When most men his age were preparing for retirement, K.E. took on a whole new challenge. As Chairman, President & CEO of National Mine Service Company since 1970, K.E. offered to purchase one of the company’s less profitable subsidiaries, a research division formed to develop gas monitors for all industries. In 1984, K.E. and his son, Bro. Kent D. McElhattan, Poage Lodge No. 325, Askland, Ky., saw it as an opportunity to
“Florence deserves more credit than me in my success as a businessman, father and as a Master Mason. I strongly believe that even a ‘dummy’ can succeed if he has a caring and loving wife supporting him.”
save the jobs of 32 people, and at the same time to prove that an organization could be successful by putting employees first, ahead of stockholders and even customers. K.E. and Kent co-founded Industrial Scientific Corporation (ISC), headquartered in Oakdale, Pa., and began independent operations in January 1985, with K.E. as its chairman and Kent running the day-to-day operations as president and CEO. They invested in their most important asset – their staff – providing the very best tools to conduct research and engineering, which led to patented technologies and state-of-the-art designs. The company’s products became known as the most rugged and dependable in the world, thus providing customers with the very best quality and service. The McElhattans point to the Bible as the foundation of their corporate business philosophy, and believe it’s the cornerstone to the company’s success. So much so, that they were willing to sacrifice income rather than compromise their Christian beliefs. The company went public on Wall Street in 1993; however, when, six years later, stock market analysts denounced the company’s philosophy as intolerable, the McElhattans repurchased all outstanding public stock at a huge financial loss and took their company private again. Perhaps Dr. R. Leslie Holmes, a pastor and K.E.’s close personal friend, describes ISC best in his article, “Where the Golden Rule Matters More than the Gold.” Dr. Holmes wrote: “ISC today has over 800 employees around the globe, with operations in Europe, Australia, Canada, China, Netherlands, Singapore, the Persian Gulf and many others. It is the world’s leading supplier of gas detection services and monitoring systems and the international leader in safety data analytics. In its quest to protect the environment and the quality of human health, the organization’s vision is to eliminate death in the workplace by the end of the century.” Continued on page 23
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Good Deeds, Indeed At the beginning of the year, R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon revolutionized Freemasonry with a newfound dedication to raise men not only to BE Masons, but to LIVE like Masons. A lifestyle full of charity, truth and brotherly love will certainly stand out in today’s society and draw people to ask, “What difference does Freemasonry make in a man’s life?” Performing one random act of kindness every week, and conducting a monthly act of community service are basic tenets of Freemasonry. Additionally, in celebration of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s 100th anniversary, each lodge must host a fund raiser to raise at least $10 per member up to a maximum of $2,000 for the work of the Masonic Villages in 2010. With more than 113,000 Masons in Pennsylvania dedicated to regular philanthropic endeavors, the state is bound to notice a difference!
Random Acts of Kindness Thinking of 52 random acts of kindness during the year may seem daunting, but when people take the time to stop and observe their surroundings, many needs are actually quite obvious. The past winter’s heavy snow storms brought an avalanche of opportunities for service. With driveways and sidewalks covered in 16
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snow, Masons told stories of plowing neighbors’ driveways, shoveling paths for medical personnel and blowing snow from sidewalks for a quarter of a mile. What wonderful displays of taking the initiative to fulfill needs! Other random acts of kindness are rooted in a person’s deepest passions and interests. When Masons recognize their strengths and use them to serve others, unique opportunities evolve.
conversations with Bro. Bush, watching a video Bro. Bush supplied and viewing documentaries on Freemasonry, Sagid has come to the conclusion that “[Freemasons] are uplifting humanity with their deeds of kindness and encouragement. They make better people and communities.” When he was 6, now-Staff Sgt. Bro. Richard John Holland, Jr.’s (Chapman Lodge No. 637, North Catasauqua) parents could not afford to buy him toys for Christmas, but that year, anonymous people made sure there were presents under the tree. Now, more than 23 years later, and as a decorated two-time veteran of Iraq and one-time veteran of the war in Afghanistan, he is returning the favor. “I know when I was young and had nothing that someone came through for me, and I like to believe that it
Bro. Harold Bush, dual member of Newtown Lodge No. 427, Woodside, and Cressona Lodge No. 222, has been working with computers, or some version of them, since the 1960s when he studied electronics in the Navy. Since Bro. Bush moved from California to Pennsylvania in 1982, he has used his passion for computers to teach computer skills, primarily to senior citizens, through the Department of Labor’s Senior Community Service Program. Bro. Bush also recycles and refurbishes computers that he has purchased from thrift stores or which have been donated to him. He then gives the computers to individuals and families who cannot afford them. “Actions speak louder than words,” Bro. Bush said. “Masonry is a way of life. There are people you interact with every day who will see the good you do.” Bro. Bush’s demeanor and generosity impact his students, including Alfred Sagid, who Bro. Bush instructs Judy Renher, who now uses her describes himself as “not a Mason, yet.” Through skills to teach and help others.
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Bro. Holland with the “Toys for Tots” in 2009. helped me become the person I am today,” Bro. Holland said. Bro. Holland has worked with the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program since 2007, and in 2009, he became a regional coordinator. He is responsible for setting up drop-off sites, collecting toys and buying gifts for families at or below the poverty line. In 2009, 28,618 toys were distributed throughout Lehigh and Northampton counties. “I believe serving the community is important for any organization in order to be recognized as a positive thing,” Bro. Holland said. “Freemasonry would benefit from any community service to show the community that we are a positive fraternity and not a negative group.” If a lodge wants to take part in the Toys for Tots campaign, visit www.toysfortots.org to contact the local coordinator for your area and discuss ways you can support the local cause. Upon his retirement from government service, Bro. David Seltzer, Shekinah Lodge No. 246, Philadelphia, contacted the Medical, Engineering and Aerospace Magnet School at Northeast High School to see if it could use some of his excess equipment. The new director was in the process of updating the program to align it with NASA’s mission to return to the moon, so Bro. Seltzer and the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command transferred much-needed equipment to the school through the Computers For Learning program. The school even has an actual NASA Apollo training capsule. Bro. Seltzer became the volunteer director/ science advisor of the Space Research Center (SPARC) and Project SPARC. This after-school program includes students in six student-managed groups including administration, computers, engineering, flight, medical and robotics, who develop projects, enter competitions and perform two NASA-like flight simulations during the school year. In 2009, the Project SPARC students simulated a mission to launch two rockets with
crews who landed on the moon and used a robotic vehicle to build a two-part prototype habitat before returning to earth. Under Bro. Seltzer’s guidance, the program has been aligned with the new NASA Constellation Program, which has a goal of returning to the moon and creating habitats for sustained visits to Mars; developed new laboratories and facilities; and increased membership from 85 students in 2006 to 140 students three years later. Bro. Seltzer’s goal is to make the practices, procedures, software, assets and capabilities of Project SPARC available to other schools and learning centers that want to develop a similar program.
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home know I’m a Mason, and they learn that this is a group of people who are committed to doing good in the community,” Bro. Allard said. The Allards and other local foster parents have been on the receiving end of random acts of kindness from lodge members, and the lodge as a whole. They’ve provided day care services when needed; donated items, like a stroller, to foster parents; made a recommendation to a Shriners clinic for a child’s expedited medical care; and generally shown their support however necessary. “Random acts of kindness don’t have to be time consuming,” Bro. Allard said. “Think outside the box. Even a small act can have a large impact.”
Community Service through Lodges When Masons gather together, they can accomplish much in a short period of time. Whether a project takes a few hours or a full day, the many benefits that result in the community and within the fraternity are well worth the effort.
Actual Apollo Training capsule provided by NASA
The American Red Cross Lower Bucks County Chapter, PECO and Citizens Bank recently awarded Bro. Edward Budman, P.M., Pennsylvania Meridian Sun Lodge No. 2, Philadelphia, the “Real Heroes 2009 Award” for his acts of kindness. Since age 17, Bro. Budman has donated 41 gallons of blood – helping an estimated 985 patients. Bro. Budman’s two sons and daughter-in-law have followed in his footsteps as the next generation of blood donors. Bro. Budman also serves on the board of directors for the Masonic Blood Donor Club. Bro. Michael Allard, Vaux Lodge No. 406, Hamburg, also passionately lives the life of a Mason. During the past 10 years, he and his wife, Cheryl, have been foster parents for more than 50 children from 8 months to 15 years old – in addition to raising their own two daughters. Most recently, on Feb. 22, they adopted Jenna, a 2-year-old girl with Down syndrome. Members of Vaux Lodge have readily accepted the Allard’s foster and biological children, who often attend Masonic picnics, the Shriners Circus and occasionally help with fund raisers. “All of the kids who come into our
The members of Muncy Lodge No. 299 always seem to be busy. In January, they held their first blood drive of the year and collected 35 units of blood. Members were ready to help set up when the Red Cross arrived, and throughout the day, about 15 members helped ensure everything ran smoothly until the bloodmobile pulled away. “It was easy for the Red Cross. We have a convenient location for people to donate blood, and we have quite a few members who are regular donors,” Lodge Secretary Bro. George Fraley said. Since then, Muncy Lodge has scheduled four more blood drives. Muncy Lodge hosts a monthly spaghetti supper and Saturday morning breakfast that attract about 100 people each as fund raisers. Two members of the lodge who also belong to the local Methodist church put their cooking experience to more good use by serving a delicious spaghetti meal for a youth group event. In February and March, Muncy Lodge sponsored a food drive, collecting canned goods at meetings and other events it sponsors, to benefit the local Son-Light House, which distributes it to those in need. “People are getting to know more about us and are asking more questions. [Community service] makes people more aware of what and who we are,” Bro. Fraley stressed. Continued on page 18
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Lodges have the manpower and connections to provide long-lasting resources for the community. On Oct. 17, 2009, Shenango Valley Lodge No. 810, Hermitage, worked for six hours with brethren from other lodges in District 53, Zem Zem Shrine clowns and Hermitage police officers to provide more than 135 children with finger prints, video interviews and more at their second annual Child Identification Program (CHIP) at Shenango Valley Mall. When Patty Ozio wanted to throw a party for the returning 56th Stryker Brigade, of which her son, Bro. William Jack Mallory, Juniata Lodge No. 282, is a member, she contacted the Grand Lodge for assistance. The lodges of District 20 took up the cause, and the response from the whole Altoona community was overwhelming. Patty donated $1,000 from excess proceeds to the now Help for Our Heroes program after hosting an Iraqi Freedom Dinner for the 56th Stryker Brigade on Oct. 11, 2009. Community service, like random acts of kindness, requires a keen eye to recognize people’s practical needs. At the February Stated Meeting, Bro. Dennis Bailey, Junior Warden, Christiana Lodge No. 417, informed his lodge that a local family needed assistance. The father had lost his job, the mother was diagnosed with cancer and their child has Down syndrome. A basket was used to collect donations after the meeting, and the members gave $150 that night. The donation was matched from the lodge’s Charity Fund, and the brothers presented a $300 grocery gift card to the family. “The family just couldn’t believe someone would think of them and help them in this way. They were really ecstatic about the gift card, especially considering their circumstances,” Lodge Secretary Bro. Bill Brown said about his lodge’s gift. “Service projects get us out in the community and get us more involved.
you get the reaction from the public, it makes you proud of your lodge and proud that you’re a member of that lodge,” Bro. Laubach said. If you would like to find out how your lodge can partner with the Masonic Blood Donor Club, visit www.pagrandlodge.org and click on Blood/ Organ Donors.
They take away some of the secrecy and make us more visible.”
Funds for the Masonic Villages In celebration of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s 100th anniversary of service to Masons and their families, Grand Master Sturgeon asked each lodge to provide financial support to the Masonic Villages in 2010.
On Feb. 23, Washington Lodge No. 265, Bloomsburg, along with the local Rotary, Lions and Kiwanis clubs, hosted a blood drive in memory of Bro. Ralph Dillon, Washington Lodge No. 265. The blood drive is an annual affair for the organizations, but this year, it was a Masonic Blood Donor Club fund raiser, and the proceeds went to the Masonic Villages. Lodge members helped throughout the day, and the drive collected 57 pints of usable blood. Because the Masonic Blood Donor Club gives $10 for each pint collected, Washington Lodge donated $570 to the Masonic Villages through this initiative. “So far, the Masonic Blood Donor Club has been fantastic and very good to work with. I’m very impressed with the work that they do, and … they made our fund raiser for the Grand Master’s initiative so easy. Everyone should use them,” Bro. Dennis Laubach, Washington Lodge No. 265, said. The blood drive benefited more than the Masonic Villages – it also strengthened the Bros. Bill Adler; Ernie Bernice, W.M.; Larry Reeher; fraternity. “Public service gets more people out and interested in the community. Once and Dick Schuster set up for the CHIP event.
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The combined Chapters of the PA Widows Sons Masonic Riders Associations are taking a different “route” to raise funds for the Masonic Villages – an organization that “exemplifies the charity and benevolence of the Masonic fraternity,” according to Bro. Bill Huston, District Deputy Grand Master for District 41 and member of Greater Johnstown Lodge No. 538. On Saturday, July 31, he and his fellow riders will host the RWGM Ride for the Masonic Villages in Gettysburg, Pa., where they will use one of their greatest passions to serve the Masonic Villages and engage the community. Grand Master Sturgeon will attend as a guest participant. Anyone, Mason or not, is invited to join them at 10 a.m. at the Battlefield Harley Davidson motorcycle dealership at 21 Cavalry Field Road, Gettysburg. Registration is $30 for riders and $15 for passengers but is limited to the first 100 bikes. “[The ride] gives participants a good chance to demonstrate that we are the charitable organization we say we are,” Bro. Huston said. “I’m hoping this event goes toward promoting a good public image for the fraternity and hopefully the non-Masons who participate will see the bonds of brotherhood we share and possibly decide to join us.” If you want more information or to pre-register, contact Bro. Huston at (814) 244-6179 or e-mail oldpete@atlanticbb.net. As you and your lodge are serving the community, visit the Random Acts of Kindness Registry at www.pagrandlodge.org/rak. This registry provides a place to share the good deeds being accomplished in Pennsylvania and is a source of inspiration as you continue humbly to observe and fulfill needs around you using your own unique passions, skills and resources.
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CPR/AED Class Certifies 20
On Jan. 9, 2010, members of Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, Harrisburg, and the Masonic Temple Association of Harrisburg hosted a CPR-Heartsaver class at the Scottish Rite Cathedral in Harrisburg. The Masonic Temple Association covered the cost for participants. Deb Goodhart, a certified American Heart Association instructor, and wife of Bro. Chip Goodhart, Robert Burns Lodge, taught the class which certified 16 brethren and four of their wives in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and taught them how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED). Worshipful Master Bro. Michael McGinnis, Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, pictured above, was among the brethren certified.
Ligonier Lodge Celebrates 150th Anniversary
(Our apologies to our Ligonier Lodge brothers for inadvertently omitting their anniversary congratulations in the October 2009 issue) Through the recommendation of Loyalhanna Lodge No. 275, Latrobe, Ligonier Lodge No. 331 was constituted on May 13, 1859. To celebrate their 150th Anniversary, the lodge held two events. On April 4, 2009, the lodge held an open banquet attended by thenR.W. Deputy Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon, along with other Grand Lodge officers. The second event was held on April 10, 2009, when then-R.W. Grand Master Stephen Gardner, accompanied by other Grand Lodge Officers, made a visit to the lodge’s Stated Meeting.
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100 Years Young
On Feb. 13, 2010, Bro. Elisha “Lash” Joseph Field, Adelphic Lodge No. 424, Jamestown, celebrated his 100th birthday. Bro. Lash joined Adelphic Lodge in 1953 and became Master in 1958. He rarely misses a lodge meeting. Helping Lash celebrate were R.W. Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W. Grand Junior Grand Warden Raymond T. Dietz, District Deputy Grand Master Bernard D. Hanmore (District 25), Masons throughout the area, and his family and friends. Also in attendance were State Rep. Michele Brooks and State Sen. and Bro. Robert Robbins who presented Bro. Field with a citation from Pennsylvania Gov. and Bro. Edward Rendell, as well as citations from their respective legislative bodies. Bro. Field is a daily visitor to the Senior Center in Linesville and remains active in his community and church.
Cambria Lodge Hosts Visitors
At the Jan. 26 Extra Meeting of Cambria Lodge No. 278, Johnstown, the lodge was honored by visitors from Lodge St. James No. 289 in Dufftown, Scotland, and Columbia Lodge No. 58, Frederick, Md. The visitors witnessed the conferral of two Entered Apprentice Mason Degrees, following which presentations were made by the lodge to the visitors. Front row, left-right: Brothers Sandy Smart, R.W. Master, Lodge St. James No. 289; James L. Beckwith, P.M., W.M., Cambria Lodge No. 278; William J. Huston, D.D.G.M., District 41; and Barry Bosley, P.M., W.M., Columbia Lodge No. 58. Back row, left-right: Brothers Barry G. Cameron, P.M., Cambria Lodge No. 278 and Scott Cameron, P.M., Columbia Lodge No. 58.
Enjoying the Anniversary Banquet were the officers of Ligonier Lodge, along with (seated left-right): Rodney E. Boyce, D.D.G.M.; Samuel C. Williamson, R.W.P.G.M.; Thomas K. Sturgeon, then-R.W.D.G.M.; James L. Ernette, R.W.P.G.M., and Bruce A. Robinson, W.M.
District 18 Banquet Features Meaningful Entertainment
The 20th Annual St. John’s Day Banquet on Dec. 29, 2009, was attended by more than 150 guests gathering to recognize Worshipful Masters, both in-coming and out-going The guests enjoyed the sweet sounds of 7-year-old Isabella Cole, who was treated for a very serious life-threatening disease by the Shriners Hospitals for Children®-Cincinnati. She has decided to produce a music CD, the proceeds of which will be donated back to the hospital as a token of appreciation for the services she received.
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Get Your Masonic Kicks on Route 6 Not quite as famous as Route 66, Route 6, which connects Bishop, Calif., to Provincetown, Mass., is one of the nation’s first and longest transcontinental highways. In 1807, Pennsylvania state officials mandated a road be cut through the Moosic Mountains to enable easier travel to the western parts of the state. The road meandered through 400 miles of wilderness and eventually united all of the county seats in northern Pennsylvania from Erie to Wilkes-Barre. The route became a vital connector between the industry of the west and the railroads in the east, and villages, farming communities and towns cropped up along the roadway. In 1925, Pennsylvania’s Route 6 was incorporated into the national highway system, which follows the Grand Army of the Republic Highway. Fifteen counties encompass the route, and Masons have left their mark in the area with 33 lodges located on or close to Route 6. Taking a Masonic road trip along Route 6 provides breathtaking sights and a thorough history of the northern part of the state and the fraternity, and how the two are intertwined. Below is a list of sites to see and some of the Masonic lodges found in 12 counties along the route. Pack your bags, because away we go!
ERIE COUNTY
Erie County offers a wealth of history including forts, covered bridges and the U.S. Brig Niagara used in the War of 1812. One of the most scenic sunsets on the east coast can be seen at Presque Isle State Park, a peninsula which also provides many recreational opportunities, including fishing, watersports, hiking and picnicking. Other attractions in the area include Lake Erie, the 13th largest lake in the world.
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in the 1970s as part of a modernization trend. Members are planning to start a fund drive to raise money and restore the front façade to its original condition.
WARREN COUNTY
Located along Route 6N in Albion is Western Star Lodge No. 304, constituted in 1857. Despite its small membership, the lodge is very active in the local community. Members support the local Boy Scouts, are known for their food stand at the Albion Fair, sponsor a local fishing derby for kids and hold an annual blood drive.
CRAWFORD COUNTY
Route 6N becomes Route 6 in Crawford County, continuing east while also heading south. The 8,777-acre Erie National Wildlife Refuge is located in the county along with Conneaut Lake, the state’s largest natural lake, and Pymatuning State Park, the largest state park in the Commonwealth. Close to Route 6 in this area is Covenant Lodge No. 473 in Cambridge Springs, constituted in 1870. Membership of the lodge increased slowly in the first years, but as the town prospered, so did the lodge. In 1889, members erected a twostory Masonic Hall in the heart of the business district, but it was destroyed by fire in 1897. They quickly rebuilt it by 1898 and continue to meet in the second floor lodge room today. The first floor is rented out to a drug store. The front of the building was covered with painted metal
Attractions in Warren County include the Kinzua Dam along the Allegheny River; the Allegheny National Forest and Reservoir (also located in McKean County), which can be seen from the Rimrock Overlook; the Warren National Historic District; Wild Woods Animal Park; and the Simple Times Museum. Railroads built during the late 1800s opened rural areas such as Warren County to more commerce. Civil War veterans and others working for the railroad and in factories had time to establish themselves and become involved in community activities. Constituted in 1876 in Sugar Grove, Stillwater Lodge No. 547 relocated to Youngsville. Members moved into a new lodge building in 2006, and are actively involved with the local middle and elementary schools and the town’s revitalization efforts.
MCKEAN COUNTY
Visitors to McKean County will want to see the National Longhouse Scenic Byways and Eldred World War II Museum. The town of Bradford features the Penn Brad Oil Museum, site of the world’s first billion dollar oil field; the Zippo/Case Visitors Center honoring the invention of the Zippo lighter; and the Bradford National Historic District. Also worth a look are the Smethport Mansion District and the Old Jail Museum. After its constitution as a lodge in 1867, McKean Lodge No. 388 laid the cornerstone for its meeting place in 1922. The building was described in the local “McKean Democrat” as a beautiful new temple, “probably one of the finest edifices of its kind, devoted solely to Masonic purposes, to be found in any town the size of Smethport in the entire country.”
Lodge POTTER COUNTY
From the late 1800s to the early 1900s, the economic lifeblood of county inhabitants was lumbering and clearing land. As more families arrived, churches and schools were built and communities were formed. Sightseers will want to visit the Pennsylvania Lumber Museum; historical downtown Coudersport; and Cherry Springs State Park, featuring the first dark sky preserve in the state. Ski enthusiasts can attempt the steepest slope in the east, the Avalanche, at Denton Hill State Park. Masons were some of the earliest settlers of Potter County. Since travel between towns was very difficult due to the dense forests, the brethren in the area who belonged to La Belle Vallee Lodge No. 232, Jersey Shore, established their own lodge in 1861: Eulalia Lodge No. 342. Members meet at the Coudersport Consistory, a former mansion which was transferred to the Lodge of Perfection in 1912 and includes a 50foot stage, a 1,132-seat auditorium, a pipe organ, a 700-seat dining room, a lounge and a Victorian porch complete with rocking chairs.
TIOGA COUNTY
In 1813, Bro. Hon. John Bannister Gibson, R.W.G.M. (1824) and Chief Justice of Pennsylvania, presided at the county’s first term of court. The land was rich in semi-bituminous coal and forests, and the surrounding railroads led to a booming population. Nature lovers will enjoy the county’s 150,000-acre Tioga State Forest, 300 miles of streams, 150 miles of trails and the 20,000-year-old Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, which runs for 50 miles. Tioga-Hammond and Cowanesque Lakes, two of the largest lakes in the country, provide recreational and educational opportunities. For a glimpse into the past, visitors will want to stop by historical Wellsboro. Since 1858, Wellsboro has been home to Ossea Lodge No. 317, with well-known members including Bro. George William Alexis Stone, Governor of Pennsylvania (1899-1903); Bro. Henry W. Williams, Supreme Court Justice and Grand Master for just 29 days, due to his death; and Bro. George Linton, Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army during World War II. In 1976, the home of Ossea Lodge since 1919 was destroyed in a fire. The Lodge Warrant was salvaged and restored as closely as possible to its original condition. In 1978, the cornerstone was laid for the new temple. Lodge members celebrated their 150th anniversary in 2008.
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BRADFORD COUNTY
Founded in 1810, the county was originally called Ontario, but the name was changed in honor of U.S. Attorney General and Bro. William Bradford, a member of President and Bro. George Washington’s cabinet and Lodge No. 2, Philadelphia. The Wyalusing Rocks Lookout provides a beautiful view of the entire valley. The Farm Museum in Troy highlights the area’s rich agricultural past, while the Wyalusing Valley Museum includes Indian artifacts, old schoolroom settings and folk art. Union Lodge No. 108 in Towanda was constituted in 1807. Some of the lodge’s earlier meetings were held at the home of Bro. William Myer, which still stands today as an historical landmark between Wysox and Myersburg. The present lodge building, part of which has always generated rental income, was purchased in 1856. Trojan Lodge No. 306, constituted in 1857, has flourished in Troy, despite the town’s first newspaper bearing the name “Anti-Masonic Democrat.”
Scranton Masonic Temple, Scranton
Eulalia Lodge 342, Coudersport
WYOMING COUNTY
Travelers through Wyoming County will want to stop at Stevens Lake, a 62-acre pond, which was once home to the first county Ice Carnival and now serves as a favorite fishing hole. Also worth seeing are the county courthouse and Keystone College, the first higher educational institution in northeastern Pennsylvania, founded in 1868. Factoryville Lodge No. 341 was constituted in 1860 and is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year on Aug. 7.
Union Lodge No. 108, Towanda
SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY
Lifestyles of the region’s pioneers come to life at Old Mill Village Museum in New Milford. The Susquehanna County Historical Society in Montrose holds a wealth of history and artifacts, which include remnants of the Underground Railroad. Railroad enthusiasts will enjoy the Starrucca Viaduct, a National Civil Engineering Landmark constructed in 1847 in Lanesboro. Salt Springs Park offers a gorge with three magnificent waterfalls surrounded by 842 acres of forests. Freedom Lodge No. 328 in Thompson was constituted in 1859, and lodge members celebrated their 150th anniversary in 2009. The lodge has 90 members today, many of whom are military veterans. Considering the population of the Borough of Thompson is only 308, Freemasonry has had quite an impact in this area.
McKean Lodge No. 388, Smethport
Stillwater Lodge No. 547, Youngsville
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District Also located in Susquehanna County, but not along Route 6, is Bluestone Lodge No. 338 in Hallstead. The lodge was constituted in 1860 after Great Bend Lodge No. 338 received New Milford Lodge No. 507. To celebrate their 150th anniversary, lodge members gathered for a special meeting on May 1, 2010.
Ossea Lodge No. 317, Wellsboro
LACKAWANNA COUNTY
Covenant Lodge Hall, Cambridge Springs
Lackawanna County, a 17th and 18th century railroad hub, is home to the Steamtown National Historic site, featuring a working rail yard and roundhouse. The Lackawanna Coal Mine tour in Scranton takes visitors 300 feet underground to an actual mine, and is located next to the Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum. The Electric City Trolley Station and Museum remembers America’s electric trolley system, which had its beginning in Scranton. The county is home to eight Masonic lodges located within four miles of Route 6. Union Lodge No. 291 (constituted in 1854), Peter Williamson Lodge No. 323 (1858), Hyde Park Lodge No. 339 (1860), Schiller Lodge No. 345 (1864), and Green Ridge Lodge No. 597 (1892) all meet in one temple. The building, opened in 1930 and listed on the National Registry of Historical Sites, is also home to the Scranton Cultural Center. According to the center’s Web site, “Over time, the Masonic fraternity realized the need to utilize the facility in more non-traditional ways. A grass roots effort was launched to form a not-for-profit organization dedicated to both preserving the physical structure of the temple and providing an ongoing programming source for the community. This unique partnership ... has proven successful and beneficial to all parties.” Located in Lackawanna County, but not along Route 6, is Moosic Lodge No. 664. To celebrate their 100th anniversary in 2010, lodge members held a special meeting on May 15.
WAYNE COUNTY Waymart Lodge No. 542, Hawley
Wayne County is home to the Stourbridge Line, America’s first steam locomotive, and visitors can ride a replica of the train from
Honesdale to Hawley. The village of Hawley features evidence of the county’s prosperous past and industrial legacy, including an 1850s gravity railroad passenger car. The Dorflinger-Suydam Wildlife Sanctuary includes the largest existing public display of Dorflinger glass in the world and 600 acres of preserved woodlands and trails. Located along Route 6, Waymart Lodge No. 542 was constituted in 1876, during the United States centennial. Members lost two lodge rooms to fires, one in 1879 and one in 1890, but by 1891 were meeting in the lodge’s current location. Its largest community service project to date was raising $19,181 for the Waymart Volunteer Fire Company to purchase a new Jaws of Life, which members concluded in 2001 with the help of community organizations and businesses.
PIKE COUNTY
Located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, Pike County features the 70,000acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area; Pennsylvania Governor Gifford Pinchot’s 100-acre estate, Grey Towers; and The Columns Museum, which houses an American flag used to cushion President Abraham Lincoln’s head after he was shot. Milford Lodge No. 344 was constituted in 1862. It had its beginnings in Milford Lodge No. 82, which was created in 1800 and has been called “the parent lodge in Northeastern Pennsylvania.” Lodge No. 82 was a casualty of the Morgan Affair. William Morgan was a resident of New York, who disappeared after stating his intention to write a book exposing Freemasonry’s “secrets,” and ignited a powerful anti-Freemason movement in the United States in the early 19th century. Famous Masons with ties to the area include Bro. Joseph Brant, an Englishman who fought in the American Revolutionary War, and Bro. George Childs, a Pennsylvania publisher and philanthropist and the namesake for the George W. Childs Recreation Site. For those looking for the full Pennsylvania Route 6 experience, visit http://paroute6.com.
Other Masonic Lodges Along Route 6 & Constitution Dates
Western Star Lodge No. 304, Albion 22
Pennsylvania Freemason
Oasis Lodge No. 416, Edinboro .................1868 Eureka Lodge No. 366, Union City ...........1866 Corry Lodge No. 365, Corry.......................1866 Pine Lodge No. 498, Linesville...................1871 Lodge No. 408, Meadville...........................1868 North Star Lodge No. 241, Warren............1850 Joseph Warren Lodge No. 726, Warren......1897 Kane Lodge No. 566, Kane.........................1886
Liberty Lodge No. 505, Port Allegany........1873 Galeton Lodge No. 602, Galeton................1892 Wyalusing Lodge No. 618, Wyalusing........1898 Franklin Lodge No. 263, Laceyville...........1852 King Solomon Lodge No. 584, Dunmore...1890 Aurora Lodge No. 523, Jermyn...................1873 Carbondale Lodge No. 249, Carbondale.....1850 Honesdale Lodge No. 218, Honesdale........1843
Lodge
and
District
National Camping Travelers National Camping Travelers (NCT), a camping organization composed of Master Masons and their families, will hold its 38th Pennsylvania State Convention Rally the week of June 24-27 at the Centre County Grange Fairgrounds. All Master Masons and their families who enjoy camping are invited to attend. For more information about this event, to register, or to inquire about membership in NCT, contact Pennsylvania State Director for NCT, Bro. Jim E. Minnich, Chapman Lodge No. 637, North Catasauqua, at (610) 767-2442 or e-mail him at shaspar@ verizon.net.
District D Shares Holiday Cheer
In 2008, members of Frankford Lodge No. 292, Philadelphia, rekindled an old lodge tradition of handing out candy to Masonic Village residents during the holiday season. With the economic downturn, lodge members faced the cancellation of the event in 2009 when several other lodges within District D stepped in to keep the “new” tradition alive. Members from Jerusalem Lodge No. 506, Lodge No. 2, Lodge No. 9 and Widener-Apollo-Kensington Lodge No. 211, all of Philadelphia, volunteered as Santa’s elves to deliver candy to residents in Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill and Warminster. District Deputy Grand Master for District D David Tansey distributed $40 K-Mart gift cards, purchased by Jerusalem Lodge No. 506, to each of the Masonic Children’s Home residents. Continued from “A Modern-Day Renaissance Man” page 15 Bro. K.E. has a lot to be proud of, yet his humility speaks louder than the long list of accomplishments adorning his resume. He feels blessed that his family is healthy and flourishing. He’s proud of his daughter, Elaine, and his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Jan. 25, 2010, marked ISC’s 25th Anniversary. At the start of the New Year, Bro. Kent passed the executive baton to K.E.’s grandson, Justin, who was appointed president and CEO of the company, allowing Kent to replace K.E. as chairman of the board. Another grandson, Joshua, is the company’s director of business development. The company is in good hands. Mining expertise is not the only legacy K.E. has built. He has
also published some of his thoughts, stories and research findings, including: “Our Line,” a Celtic Scots-Irish Lineage Narrative, 1987 “Christmas Kittens,” a short story, 1988 “Tree Guide,” Mt. Lebanon Nature Conservancy, 1991 “Hurry Up Son!” Searching for Divine Truth, 2003 (All the proceeds from this book are donated to the 32° Masonic Learning Center in New Castle, Pa. to support youth with dyslexia) “Biblical Subjects in ‘Hurry Up Son,’” an essay, 2006 While unlikely to slow down soon, Bro. K.E. is looking forward to spending more time at his Lake Latonka cottage woodshop, tree farm in Clarion County, and meaningful moments with family.
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P e n n s y lv a n i a M a s o n i c Yo u t h F o u n d a t i o n
Lifeskills Grads Promote Community Partnership
Adapted from an article by Evan J. Donham, Sophomore, Quakertown Community High School
On Monday, Nov. 23, Quakertown’s Strayer Middle School hosted one of the area’s most highly successful American Red Cross blood drives. Seventy-four participants donated 67 usable pints of blood, to be distributed to hospitals in the PA-NJ area. The turnout of 74 people was in itself amazing, but what surprised the donors the most was not the efficient process or the massive turnout, it was that 16 of the 7th and 8th grade students had coordinated the whole blood drive. From calling and scheduling to reminding and greeting donors, the students on the school’s Street Team had a hand in all the blood drive’s workings. Jane, an American Red Cross volunteer at the blood drive said, “this was the busiest and smoothest run blood drive I have seen.” The Street Team is only two years old; 80 students were nominated by their teachers its first year, but only 11 were selected based on their leadership skills, rather than their academics. The Street Team’s creation was a result of the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation’s LifeSkills Conference and its hands-on lessons of Respect, Relationships and Responsibility. This
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conference hosts around 100 young people for a week each summer. After learning that the Masonic Blood Donor Club had donated to the 2009 LifeSkills Conference, Strayer teacher and LifeSkills Conference advisor Tracey Holland reached out to Bro. Jeff Donham, Blood Drive Chairman, 9th Masonic District, member of Prosperity Lodge No. 567, Riegelsville, and parent of a Strayer student. Following his visit to the LifeSkills Conference last summer, Bro. Donham proposed that the Street Team learn how to coordinate and run a blood drive of their own, and the young people accepted the challenge. “The kids did everything,” Donham said. “From making phone calls and scheduling donations, they did it all.” Holland also mentioned that the blood drive was, “a way to promote community partnership,” and the partnership between Strayer, the American Red Cross, and the Masons showed in the astounding turnout at the blood drive. Through the sponsorship of Prosperity Lodge No. 567, Riegelsville, the Masonic Blood Donor Club made a gift in the amount of $10 for every pint of blood collected. The gift will
be used toward the Street Team’s participation in the 2010 LifeSkills Conference this summer in Elizabethtown. Jaclyn Mattis, account manager, American Red Cross, told the students, “Three lives are saved for every donation collected.” An even more amazing statistic: 28 were first-time donors, which is significant because after the first donation, most find that continuing to donate is easy. With the help of their school, their community, Prosperity Lodge, the American Red Cross, and the Masonic Blood Donor Club, 16 middle school students put the principles of the LifeSkills Conference to practical work. By taking on the responsibility of organizing and conducting a very successful blood drive, they earned the respect of their peers and counselors, and strengthened relationships across all facets of their community.
P e n n s y lv a n i a M a s o n i c Yo u t h F o u n d a t i o n
TEAMWORK Leads to GROWTH Job’s Daughters Bethel No. 16, Chambersburg, had seen a decline in membership over the last several years. This past fall, the Bethel teamed up with George Washington Chapter, Order of DeMolay, also of Chambersburg, and began holding joint activities. The teamwork between the Bethel and Chapter has led to a renewed enthusiasm for both groups. Both organizations now hold their stated meetings on the same day, and share a “family” meal between their two meetings. As they work together to promote both Job’s Daughters and DeMolay, they have held joint fund raisers, and are experiencing an increase in attendance at meetings and activities. The teamwork is paying off. With more activity and fun to talk about, they are starting to recruit new members. On Jan. 31, with the help of six other Bethels from across the state, Bethel No. 16 initiated two new members. The additional activity is generating more interest from the Masonic community. Bro. S. Eugene Herritt,
District Deputy Grand Master for District 3, attended both the Job’s Daughters initiation and the DeMolay Chapter meeting, where he met with the Chapter officers. To make an acronym out of T.E.A.M. may be a cliché but it is also true: working Together, Everyone Accomplishes More!
Rainbow Gets Girls Ready for Life Pennsylvania Rainbow grew to 27 Assemblies on Jan. 23, 2010, when Aurora Assembly No. 189 (Letters Temporary) was Instituted in Waymart in the presence of 150 attendees. The Assembly is co-sponsored by Waymart Lodge No. 542, F. & A.M., and Laurel Chapter No. 67, O.E.S. Bro. Charles Grimm, District Deputy Grand Master of District 14 and Mrs. Carol Hunt, Acting Worthy Matron, took part in the outstanding ceremony performed by Danielle Dunmire, Grand Worthy Advisor, and her corps of Grand Officers. Bro. Grimm expressed his pride and excitement that Aurora Assembly, with its 14 new initiates, is the first Masonic Youth Group in the 14th Masonic District. He thanked Mrs. Helen Snedden,
Supreme Deputy for Rainbow in Pennsylvania, for her wonderful cooperation and support. In 2009, PA Rainbow grew for the first time in many years. Please visit www.parainbowgirls.org to discover which Assembly is nearest to you. Look for ways to involve the girls in your lodge’s events and activities, and be sure to recommend membership to all girls of good character who are between the ages of 11-20. Top photo, left-right: Mrs. Helen Snedden, Supreme Deputy for PA Rainbow; Danielle Dunmire, Grand Worthy Advisor; Jennell Johannes, new member; and Bro. Charles W. Grimm, D.D.G.M. of the 14th Masonic District. Bottom photo: The Grand Officers performing the Closing Cross ceremony.
May 2010 25
Masonic Vill ages
MASONIC VILLAGES’
2010
WISH LIST ITEMS We wish to thank the following individuals, lodges and organizations who have recently supported the Masonic Villages by selecting one or more items off the wish list since Jan. 1, 2010: • Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Retirement Living Craft Group • Bro. Brad W. Levin • Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682 • The York Children’s Foundation • Barbara E. Shields • Masonic Village at Sewickley Master Mason’s Club • Bro. Floyd R. and Carolyn G. Sowers • Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Retirement Living Association • Hunters Gallery • Bro. Ralph E. Bolinger Because of their generous support, we have been able to replace resident bed spreads at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill; purchase a communion cup and paten for resident worship services at Masonic Village at Sewickley; replace mattresses, lighting, kitchen counter tops and digital cameras at the Masonic Children’s Home; and purchase a needed digital piano for the music therapy program for residents at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. THANK YOU to everyone! If you are interested in supporting any one item or more, or even a partial donation toward the remaining item(s) listed, please call the toll-free number below or go to our Web site at www.masonicvillagespa.org/wishlist.php:
OFFICE OF GIFT PLANNING (800) 599-6454 26
Pennsylvania Freemason
Qty. Capital Need Masonic Children’s Home 32 Mattresses 3 Kitchen floor - cottages 4 Foyer floor - cottages 2 Solar panel water heater - cottages Dining Room Chairs Trip - Gymnastics Center Trip - Barnstormers Game (baseball) Trip - Sight & Sound (theater) Trip - Laserdome Trip - Hersheypark Trip - Knoebel’s Grove Trip - Wildwood, N.J. Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill 5 Apartment patio doors 1 ID card printer Plants/Planters It’s Never Too Late - computer systems that empower 1 individuals to connect, engage & enjoy life 1 Mechanical lift 1 Portable digital wheelchair scale 69 Bed spreads 1 Van with lift Masonic Village at Warminster 34 Mattresses 20 Lounge Chairs 20 Over Bed Tables 5 Fall Mats Masonic Village at Sewickley 2 Advent Banner 2 Christmas Banner 1 12.1 megapixel digital camera 1 Photosmart compact printer w/extra cartridges 2 Christ Candles 2 Candle Sets 2 Outdoor Tent (size 20 x 20) Meditation Room Upgrade Touchtown Digital TV Upgrade 1 All-in-one Music System Masonic Village at Elizabethtown 1 10 to 15 passenger van for Bleiler Caring Cottage CLINICAL NEEDS 90 APM2 Mattresses 80 x 35 - Prevents skin breakdown 3 Bariatric Bed & equipment - Used for larger residents 10 Lifts (full) 10 Lifts (sit to stand) 5 Low Electric Beds 1 Nurse Call Bell System - wireless 1 Security System 5 Wheelchairs - Broda - Comfort seating at end of life 15 Wheelchairs - Specialty 10 Whirlpools (Tubs) 1 Wireless Internal Access QUALITY OF LIFE NEEDS Ceiling Panels (ocean, sky, etc.) 49 - For residents who are bed bound Furniture for Resident Balconys 3 Horticulture Gardens Raised 10 - Depending on the size and materials used It’s Never too Late - computer systems that empower 1 individuals to connect, engage & enjoy life Keyboards - Digital 4
Cost Per Item Total Cost $200 $509 $129 $8,750
$6,400 $1,527 $516 $17,500 $2,000 $500 $500 $1,000 $1,000 $2,000 $3,000 $7,000
$3,000 $11,300 $24,000 $5,300 $2,000 $80 $45,000
$15,000 $11,300 $3,375 $24,000 $5,300 $2,000 $5,520 $45,000
$332 $150 $265 $155
$11,288 $3,000 $5,300 $775
$149 $149 $300 $250 $195 $24 $1,800 $500
$298 $298 $300 $250 $390 $48 $3,600 $13,000 $5,300 $500
$34,607
$34,607
$1,200 $5,000 $3,700 $3,800 $5,000 $2,100 $1,000 $20,000 $20,000
$108,000 $15,000 $37,000 $38,000 $25,000 $100,000 $100,000 $10,500 $15,000 $200,000 $20,000
$215
$10,535
$1,000
$24,000
$3,000 $5,000$10,000 $24,000
$2,500
$10,000
$500-$1,000
Masonic Vill ages
Masonic Village Hospice Care As a valuable new step in our continuum of care for residents, Masonic Villages is proud to offer Hospice Care at our Elizabethtown location. In the past, hospice services have been available only through outside agencies. Offering hospice services directly through Masonic Village further enhances and coordinates quality care, provided by staff who are often already familiar with the resident and his or her needs. After evaluating the program’s success in Elizabethtown, we will potentially offer these services in the future at other locations, where demand exists. Hospice focuses on the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of patients at the end of their lives in the familiar surroundings
of home. Specially-trained nurses and certified home health aides concentrate on providing comfort, pain control and symptom management while enabling patients to participate in decision-making regarding their care. Masonic Village Hospice Care also provides families with 24-hour phone support, counseling, and spiritual and bereavement support. “The Masonic Village Hospice team is dedicated to providing our patients with quality care while focusing on the needs of those we serve,” Donna Gobbo, RN, Hospice Manager, said. “The hospice staff considers it a privilege to be invited into your homes and trusts that we can exceed your expectations
during the end-of-life journey.” Hospice is available for patients with a limited life expectancy once their primary physician authorizes care and the patient, family and physician agree the focus should be placed on providing comfort rather than aggressive curative care. Hospice services are covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance plans. Our staff will work with the patient’s insurance company to coordinate benefits. As a not-for profit organization, Masonic Village Hospice is committed to providing care regardless of a patient’s financial circumstances. For more information, please call (717) 367-1121, ext. 18449.
Home Care Services Fulfill Great Need In response to resident requests, last May, Masonic Village at Elizabethtown launched its Home Care Services program, which provides residents assistance with daily living in the comfort of their homes. Homemakers provide care based on a plan tailored for each individual by a registered nurse. Prior to Masonic Village offering these services, residents could hire outside home care agencies. Due to the convenience of Masonic Village’s program and staff’s understanding of our continuum of care, in addition to those who have newly elected this option, a number of residents switched from outside agencies to Masonic Village Home Care Services. “The program has been extremely successful,” Mike Hudson, home care manager, said. “The residents are very happy with our services because of the ongoing variety of needs we are meeting on the campus and our terrific staff. They are some of the most caring, loving people.” While some request services such as
bathing, dressing and cooking that allow them to stay independent, others request assistance with shopping, laundry and escorting them to appointments. Staff also help with miscellaneous jobs such as cleaning or assisting with e-mails. Homemakers are hired by the hour, which means they do more than complete a task and leave. They provide whatever work and assistance an individual needs within the time allotted, up to 24-hour care. For example, homemakers may help residents complete a prescribed exercise program, provide basic post surgical or procedural assistance, or assist with diabetes monitoring, among other services. Home care services can even be utilized for convenience tasks such as gardening, car maintenance and spring cleaning. For more information about how you or a loved one residing at the Masonic Village can benefit from home care services, please call (717) 367-1121, ext. 33700.
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Where Caring is a Tradition The Masonic Village at Warminster’s Masonic Eastern Star Home provides residents with comfort, companionship and a life of dignity and security. The staff is dedicated to providing each resident a gratifying lifestyle while accommodating individual needs. Offering quality nursing care and personal care services, the mission of the Masonic Village at Warminster includes serving individuals in Philadelphia County who are day-one Medicaid recipients.
For a tour or for more information, call (215) 672-2500, or e-mail MVWadmissions@masonicvillagespa.org. 850 Norristown Road • Warminster, Pa 18974
PAW PRINTS FOR PENNSYLVANIA PATRIOTS Service Dogs are called to action now more than ever to help our returning soldiers and veterans. With no government assistance or funding, our brave men and women must rely on loyal Americans to financially support the cost and expense of training these K-9 assistants. The members of the Order of the Eastern Star are working in conjunction with the Masonic Villages to promote a new and exciting program. The program, entitled Paw Prints for Pennsylvania Patriots, will provide service dogs for our returning soldiers and veterans. Assistance dogs, which are locally trained, will help our heroes live a life free of barriers and provide mobility, independence
and companionship. Through the General Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, and Pennsylvania Grand Chapter, this program will not only serve mankind but help us show our patriotism within the Masonic Village and at our individual homes. Take pride in your flag as it will be flown in honor of, or in memory of, your friends, Lodges, Chapters, and loved ones on many special occasions at the Masonic Village of your choice. To show your support for this worthy program, please complete the order form and return it with your remittance remembering that your donation is tax deductible.
Serving our Veterans who bravely served us! Your contribution will enable a returning soldier to receive a Service Dog who will be a willing helper throughout life. SMALL 12" x 18" PRESENTATION FLAG - DONATION $10.00 LARGE 2’ x 3’ PRESENTATION FLAG AND POLE - DONATION $50.00 Flown at the Masonic Village of your choice (circle one) Dallas Elizabethtown Lafayette Hill Sewickley Warminster In Honor of _______________________ In Memory of ________________________ (check one) Pole Inscription: (only for large flag) Name:_____________________________________________________________________________________ Presented By: _____________________________________________________________________________ Make checks payable to: Grand Chapter of PA O.E.S. Memo line: Service Dogs Mail to: Jo-Anne G. Karnes, GGCCM • 400 Summer Haven Court, Pittsburgh, PA 15239 Donations in memory or in honor of fallen comrades, friends or loved ones will help support our returning heroes in their time of need. Your donation will make a difference and is tax deductible. 28
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Masonic Vill ages
MASONIC VILLAGES OFFER OPTIONS STATEWIDE
The Masonic Village at Elizabethtown is celebrating its 100th year of service, and along with it, the Masonic Villages across the state are building on the same legacy of excellence and caring to grow and offer new options to people throughout Pennsylvania. Retirement should be the best years of a person’s life, and the Masonic Villages can make that possible. In our retirement communities, we take care of the burdens of home maintenance so residents have the opportunity to pursue new interests, rediscover lost hobbies and spend time with friends and family. With one monthly fee including many services and amenities, retirement living at Masonic Village provides unprecedented financial security. Living in a continuing care retirement community provides peace of mind in knowing that should residents ever need additional health care services in the future, the highest quality of care will be provided by trusted people. With our promise of quality and the following options throughout the state, now is one of the best times in our history to consider the Masonic Villages. MASONIC VILLAGE AT DALLAS This community is built on the grounds of the beautiful Irem Country Club and surrounded by the mountainous woodlands that are Northeastern Pennsylvania’s trademark. The new Clubhouse and strong partnerships with local organizations provide access to a constantly growing number of amenities and opportunities. Call now to reserve one of the few remaining rental apartments or discuss the new options and incentives for villas, up to an $8,000 value! Find out how guaranteed appreciation is a better value than owning real estate. Retirement Living Accommodations: (570) 675-1866 or (866) 851-4243 MASONIC VILLAGE AT ELIZABETHTOWN Currently, the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown has immediate availability for selected retirement living apartments, including the new
Masonic Villages’ Admissions Policy
Admissions to the Masonic Villages are governed by the Committee on Masonic Homes, members of which are elected by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. The Committee on Masonic Homes approves or disapproves applications for admission primarily on the basis of need. Decisions concerning admission, the provision of services and referrals of residents are not based upon the applicant’s race, color, religion, disability, ancestry, national origin, familial status, age, sex, limited English proficiency (LEP) or any other protected status.
Sycamore Apartment area as well as the James Buchanan Apartments which are connected to the clubhouse, the hub of retirement living activities and amenities. With demand for cottages still high, we are presently pre-marketing a multi-phase project to construct additional cottages. Call today to learn more about floor plans and the location of this potential construction project. Residential living also has immediate openings available, a select few of which are at special low rates! Unique to the Elizabethtown campus, residential living offers an independent, apartment-style setting with all the comforts of home, but without the hassle of meal preparation. Retirement Living Accommodations: (800) 676-6452 Residential Living, Personal Care and Nursing Services: (800) 422-1207 MASONIC VILLAGE AT LAFAYETTE HILL From remodeling and rebuilding, to transforming in accordance with the community’s recent certification as an Eden Alternative® site, the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill has undergone extensive renovations and enhancements to strengthen the lives of people living and working there. If you have not visited recently, you are bound to be impressed by what you will see. Limited retirement living apartments are available, but you must act soon! Retirement Living Accommodations: (610) 828-5760 Personal Care and Nursing Services: (610) 825-6100 MASONIC VILLAGE AT SEWICKLEY This award-winning community is bursting with recreational, wellness and educational opportunities. Convenient access to Pittsburgh and infinite local possibilities is balanced with the secluded security of the Masonic Village at Sewickley. Only a few apartments are available in this Lifecare community. Don’t delay, call today! Retirement Living Accommodations: (412) 741-1400, ext. 3530 or (866) 872-0664 Personal Care and Nursing Services: (412) 741-1400, ext. 3600 Regardless of your financial situation, you can afford to move to a Masonic Village! When you choose to live at the Masonic Village, you are not required to turn over your assets; you maintain complete control of them. Fraternal support enables the Masonic Village to serve all eligible individuals as part of our Mission of Love. Please contact the Admissions or Marketing Office at the Masonic Village of your preference for information on the living area desired. For more information, visit www.masonicvillagespa.org.
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20th Century Renaissance Leaders Set Path for 21st Century Renaissance
Edgar A. Tennis The Masonic fraternity has historically consisted of great men who, through their strong beliefs, undying efforts and courage to make difficult decisions, create the driving forces that evoke changes in our society. When Bro. Edgar A. Tennis, Lamberton Lodge No. 371, now Tennis Lodge No. 371, Thompsontown, served as Grand Master in 1902, he proposed to create a home for indigent brethren and their aged wives, widows and orphaned children with free admission. The idea would revolutionize the face of Pennsylvania Freemasonry and turn it into a leader among American Masonic fraternities. At a time when state care for the poor and elderly consisted of little more than a dilapidated roof to sleep under, Bro. Tennis wanted the home to “not only soothe the pangs of wounded sensibility and the deeper pangs of wounded affection, but … make glad the cottage of the poor and smooth the pillows of suffering.” On June 3, 1903, a committee of District Deputy Grand Masters reported that out of 324 lodges, 281 favored establishing homes under the Grand Lodge’s management. Three months later, the brethren agreed to establish a Masonic home. In December 1906, the Committee on Masonic Homes was created, but little forward motion was enacted until
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the Grand Lodge learned it would receive approximately $1.04 million from Bro. Thomas R. Patton, Union Lodge No. 121, now Pilgrim Lodge No. 712, Philadelphia, to invest and use for the future construction of a boarding school for male orphans. In 1908, Grand Master George B. Orlady, Mount Moriah Lodge No. 300, Huntingdon, praised the fraternity’s progress: “… within a short time, this home and school will be a sacred place for Pennsylvania Masons, and will be the largest enterprise of its kind in the United States, if not the entire world, and it will be in every respect of equal magnitude with this exceptional temple in Philadelphia.” The committee evaluated dozens of properties before choosing the Elizabethtown location in 1909 for its 966.741 fertile acres, adjacent train station, proximity to local lodges and cities, and spring water supply. About 1,500 spectators visited the Masonic Homes on May 25, 1910, for a flag raising ceremony to open the Masonic Homes. Exactly one month later, the first resident, Bro. William M. Geesaman, Cumberland Valley Lodge No. 315, Shippensburg, moved into a renovated building on the property, the Guest House. Grand Master Bro. George W. Guthrie, Franklin Lodge No. 221, Pittsburgh, who was distinguished as one of the most admired Grand Masters by Wayne A. Huss in his book, “The Master Builders,” called for “no holding back” in regard to the development of the Masonic Homes. In a competition to design the Masonic Homes, Messrs. Zantzinger, Borie and Medary, of Philadelphia, submitted the best plan and were chosen as its architects. Bro. Clarence C. Zantzinger, one of the firm’s partners, belonged to Lodge No. 610, now University Lodge No. 51, Philadelphia. The plan included a large main building – Grand Lodge Hall – with Elizabethan-English Gothic architecture. The building made an
George B. Orlady impressive administrative headquarters and residence for up to 175 people. In the plan, cottages, with the same style of architecture, fanned out from the Grand Lodge Hall, and a chapel, school and hospital completed the design which created the effect of an eightacre “village” for about 700 people. On Sept. 26, 1911, Bro. Guthrie conducted the cornerstone laying ceremonies for the Grand Lodge Hall. The date was already significant because it marked the 125th anniversary of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania’s independence from the Grand Lodge of England. During the next 98 years, the community grew astronomically and expanded far beyond the founders’ original visions. As the Masonic Village celebrates its centennial, it remembers the men, like Bro. Tennis, Bro. Patton, Bro. Orlady, Bro. Guthrie and members of the Committee on Masonic Homes, whose revolutionary ideas molded the Masonic Village into what it has become. The Masonic Village has grown from
MASONIC VILLAGE100th Anniversary ELIZABETHTOWN, PA
11 residents in 1910 to more than 1,700 residents in 2010. More than 18,000 men, women and children have received care there throughout its history. The Masonic Villages now includes five locations – all with their own unique services and atmospheres. The scope of services offered is virtually limitless with the help of medical personnel, interdisciplinary staff, community partnerships and an extensive Outreach Program. Maintaining a consistently strong and constantly growing Masonic community requires building on past experiences and a commitment to making revolutionary decisions and changes based on current and proposed future needs. When the economy dipped in 2007, many companies and organizations laid off workers. Masonic Village leadership took a different route and focused on two values: • Do not negatively affect care and services for residents. • Take care of the staff. Leadership asked employees, residents, volunteers and anyone related to the Masonic
Villages for cost containment and revenue enhancement ideas. In three days, the leadership team expanded from a handful of people to several thousand with hundreds of ideas. But change is not easy. People have made sacrifices to help in the cost containment efforts, from reducing overtime to turning down their thermostats, to foregoing salary increases. Each extra effort helps provide opportunities for the Masonic Village to grow and impact more people. The poor economic climate resulted in a culture change that helped
1910-2010
to fortify the Masonic Villages by refocusing goals on maximizing spending to best provide for its current and future employees and residents. As the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown celebrates its centennial in the wake of a recovering economy, it shares a common experience with the fraternity as it embarks on a 21st Century Masonic Renaissance. As Bro. Tennis expressed in 1903 upon his retirement as Grand Master, “Let each of the 65,000 Masons in this jurisdiction understand that he can never have any real interest in this enterprise until he has made sacrifices for it, since no real good or benefit do we ever receive, which has not caused some other one a pang or tear. All that is good on earth or in Heaven is the outcome of sacrifice.” Living out new ideas, whether at the Masonic Village or as a Mason, will take courage, effort and trust in a higher mission, but as leaders emerge and others follow their examples, the benefits that will befall future generations will be due to the hard work put forth today.
Own a Piece of
Masonic Village History!
Available June 25
at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Gift Shops, the Masonic Village Farm Market, online at www.mvfarmmarket.com and by calling (717) 361-4520 In celebration of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s 100th anniversary, discover how great Masons established the Masonic Village, overcame worldwide obstacles and now remain steadfast in serving the community - all in the tradition of Freemasonry. This 212 page, coffee-table style book with hundreds of photographs and stories about people whose lives were impacted by the Masonic Village will remind you why you are proud to be a Mason. 10”x13” $40 plus tax & shipping
May 2010 31
10 Myths OF CHARITABLE BEQUESTS
So much of the great charitable legacy of Pennsylvania Freemasonry has been built through charitable bequests. “By your good deeds you will be remembered” has been demonstrated many times over the past 100 years by Masonic Charities donors. And wonderful people with big hearts are following in their footsteps today. Despite this, however, there is a lot of misunderstanding about charitable bequests. Here are 10 popular myths that keep some people from making a wonderful parting gift to their favorite charity. 1. Only wealthy estates can make a bequest. Big bequests from famous people make the news, but by far the greatest number of bequests comes from people of ordinary means. “Average” estates usually contain ample assets to make a gift. 2. A small bequest won’t do much good. In fact, small bequests are the stones that have built the charitable mountain. For example, some people “endow” the annual amount they give during life through a charitable bequest. If they give $200 a year during life, a bequest of just $4,000 will keep “giving” this amount each year permanently. You don’t have to stop helping others when you die. 3. Bequests are complicated and expensive to make. On the contrary, as part of a normal will-making process, bequests are simple to include and add little or no cost. Masonic Charities has a listing of the correct language to use for a bequest. It is available by calling 1-800-599-6454. Masonic Charities always recommends using a qualified attorney to draft a proper will. 4. Bequests are either/or—it’s either family or charity. Not at all. Many people include both family and charity in their will for a bequest. To make sure their family is not deprived of inheritance, they often make the charitable bequest a “residual” bequest, i.e., a percentage of the estate after other bequests are fulfilled.
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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 1-888236-6167. 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.
5. There’s no recognition until after death. Masonic Charities recognizes all bequest donors immediately with an invitation to the Franklin Legacy Society, an invitation to the annual donor dinner, a nice gift, printing of their names in our publications (if desired), and a permanent inscription on our donor wall. 6. Charitable bequests are uncommon. In fact, bequests are the most popular planned gift in the United States. 7. Y ou must tell the charity that it is in your will. There is no obligation of any sort to inform a charity that it is in your will. For Masonic Charities, there are some nice benefits if a donor does inform, as noted above, but there is no obligation. 8. There are no benefits to the donor for leaving a charitable bequest. In addition to the specific Masonic Charities benefits noted above, there can be important tax saving benefits to the donor’s estate for a charitable bequest, and even financial benefits to their heirs that last for years. Please call us for information about this. 9. If you’ve already completed your will and you want to go back and include a charitable bequest, you have to do it all over again. By no means. A simple form called a “codicil” can be added to a completed will for a charitable bequest. 10. Only the wealthy can leave a legacy. Every single person who makes a charitable bequest leaves behind a beautiful humanitarian legacy that reflects their values and the kind of person they are. Bequests are especially suitable for people who want to make a gift, but need to keep their assets during life. For more information on making a charitable bequest to Masonic Charities or any charity, please contact the Office of Gift Planning nearest you. Or, visit our Web site at www.masonicvillagespa.org/howyoucanhelp.php.
Central Pennsylvania (717) 367-1121, ext. 33437 or (800) 599-6454 Eastern Pennsylvania (610) 825-6100, ext. 1348 Western Pennsylvania (412) 741-1400, ext. 3011 or (866) 872-0664 Out-of-State (717) 367-1121, ext. 33312 or (800) 599-6454
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Office of Gift Planning, Masonic Charities, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022 Phone 1-800-599-6454 Please send me information on making a charitable bequest to Masonic Charities, including benefits. I have questions. Please call me, with no obligation, at __________________________ Please call me regarding locating local counsel to discuss my planning needs. I/we have already included a Masonic Charity in our will. Please let us know the benefits of having done so. Please send us your Annual Report so we can see what Masonic Charities does. Please send information on a gift that will bring me/us income for life at attractive rates. Comments or other instructions________________________________________ Name(s)_________________________________________________________________________ Address_________________________________________________________________________ City____________________________________State__________Zip_______________________