Freemason - May 2014

The Pennsylvania

May 2014 edition vol. Lx1 no. 2

Celebrating First Responders

THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON® VOL. LXI, MAY 2014, NO. 2

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

Inside this Issue...

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

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

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

3 Grand Lodge

• Grand Master’s Message • Change for the Troops • In Memoriam • Grand Master’s Charity Golf Tournaments • Congratulations to ...

• Annual Grand Communication Highlights • December Quarterly Communication Highlights • June Quarterly Communication Announced

10 Lodge and District

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.

• Random Acts of Kindness & Community Service • Florida Masonic Reunions • Feature: Bro. J. Kevin Jones, D.D.G.M. • Lodge & District Happenings

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP

18 Freemason

(Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United States Code) May 1, 2014, The Pennsylvania Freemason ®, published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Publishers: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Editor: Robert J. Bateman. Owner: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Known bondholders: none. No advertising handled. Free distribution averages 124,000 each quarter.

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

Robert J. Bateman, Editor Mailing address changes

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

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

• Masonic Book Review • Gift Planning for a Future • Autumn Day 2014 - An Eternal Flame

22 PA Masonic Youth Foundation

• LifeSkills Conference Builds Leaders • Rainbow & Jobies Events • Pennsylvania DeMolay Honors “Uncle Ralph” • Planting Seeds to Grow Masonic Youth

25 Masonic Villages

• Growing to Meet Needs • Bro. Carl Flohr: A Mason on a Mission • Phillips Named Executive Director • 2014 Wish List Items

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

Dear Brethren and Ladies, It looks like spring has finally sprung. I hope everyone has survived the snowy months of winter to welcome the warmth and beauty of spring.

Freemasonry in Pennsylvania has been very busy, and it feels good to see our lodges engaged in new and exciting activities. We have presented eight new District Deputy Grand Masters throughout the state, and attended a baby shower for our military families at Joint Base McGuireDix-Lakehurst, N.J., in March. We are enjoying our family nights, our open houses and planning one day classes.

Brethren, don’t forget it is the goal of this administration that every Masonic lodge in Pennsylvania increases membership while maintaining current membership in both 2014 and 2015. Worshipful Masters, you need to make sure that your membership retention committees are working hard to assure that our brethren who have been suspended for nonpayment of dues and those brethren who have resigned in the past three years have been contacted. We need to let them know what opportunities they and their families have lost and how easy it is to be reinstated into our fraternity. Let them know how much they are missed and that they are not forgotten.

Remember, if a lodge increases its membership in 2014 and 2015 while maintaining its current membership, the lodge will receive $50 from Grand Lodge for every new member who has been raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason, or for any brother who transfers into their lodge from another jurisdiction, increasing the membership above what it was at the beginning of the year. Also, if a member is the first-line signer on a petition, his name will go into a pool to be eligible for a grand prize drawing of a gift card in the amount of $1,000. There will also be second and third place drawings for gift cards in the amount of $500 each. A member will be permitted to put his name into the pool for each of the petitions for which he was first-line signer. The drawings will take place at the December Quarterly Communications in 2014 and 2015.

All first-line signers on a petition will receive a sun shade for the windshield of his vehicle as my personal gift. I ask you to please use this sun shade every time you park your vehicle.

Please remember our Masonic youth groups. We need to support and get involved with our future. Every Masonic district in this Commonwealth that has a DeMolay chapter, Job’s Daughters bethel, or Rainbow for Girls assembly will appoint at least three members of the lodge to attend their meetings, get involved with their programs and support their dreams. I encourage districts that do not have a Masonic youth group to attend the meetings of a youth group in a district close to them. If your district does not have a Masonic youth group, consider sponsoring one, or better yet, all three.

An eternal flame will be installed at the Veterans Grove at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. This eternal flame is to pay homage to all active military, our veterans and all those heroes who gave their lives for our freedom. We will be celebrating this event at Autumn Day 2014. Further information as to how you can support this effort is on p. 21 of this magazine.

Brethren, if we want Masonry to grow, we should nurture it with brotherly love and affection; use the blueprints and designs from the past, the tools of the present and our dreams to build the future for our great fraternity. Brethren, WE are the builders of our Masonic future, and I believe it is about time that we all get to work. God bless the United States of America, God bless our great and beloved fraternity, and God bless all of you.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Robert J. Bateman R.W. Grand Master

As exhibited on the cover of this issue, we, as Pennsylvania Freemasons, have dedicated our programming during the month of May to honoring and celebrating our first responders, who put their lives on the line daily to ensure our safety.

4 GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason

Photography by Bro. Brian Richards

CHANGE FOR THE TROOPS PREVIOUSLY HELP FOR OUR HEROES

Above: Attendees of the March 8 Military Baby Shower Below: Attendees at the December Military Christmas party, l-r: Bro. Danny Hinds, Aide to the Grand Master; Lt. Col. Todd E. Randolph, USAF; Bro. Charles Holloway, D.D.G.M.-C; Grand Master Robert J. Bateman; Col. and Bro. Harris Brooks; Col. Charles E. Coursey, U.S. Army and Joint Base Deputy Commander; CMSgt. Phillip K. Robinson, USAF; and Senior Grand Warden S, Eugene Herritt

Spreading Holiday Cheer For the second year, in December 2013, your donations funded a Christmas party for military families with children with special needs at Joint Base McGuire-DixLakehurst. Attendees enjoyed a sit-down dinner, antics by Masonic clowns and a visit from Santa Claus, who of course brought gifts for all of the children. Change for the Troops has already committed to funding the event again this year.

We also provided, at no charge, use of the Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center for a Christmas party for the children of our Pennsylvania National Guard soldiers who were deployed from Western Pennsylvania.

Bros. P.J. Roup, D.D.G.M.-54, and Samuel C. Williamson, R.W. Past Grand Master, helped at the event, and were so touched by the experience, they want to host the event again this year.

Assisting Veterans R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman has expanded the Change for the Troops program to include assisting our service people and veterans with disabilities, both those who are physically injured and those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Masons who are licensed contractors have been helping dependents of deployed Pennsylvania Guardsmen and Guardswomen with reconstruction and repairs on their homes while they have been away. We are expanding this program to help our veterans with physcal disabilities return to their homes.

McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey asked if we would provide assistance to The Veterans Group in South Philadelphia.

Established in 2007, The Veterans Group provides food, shelter and case management for homeless veterans and their families.

The shelter has grown to house up to 48 men who suffer from PTSD and helps them to rebuild a self-sufficient life. Recently, the base provided volunteers to fix up and paint the facility; we provided all the paint and supplies for the project (see letter on p. 5).

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May 2014

The Pennsylvania Air National Guard Station in Horsham, Pa., has been tasked to work with the Veterans Administration to start a veterans’ assistance program. We will assist this group in many areas.

In February, we were asked to help an airman preparing to deploy whose parents’ house burned down. Bro. Tom Long, Brotherhood Lodge No. 126, Philadelphia, immediately contacted the airman and provided assistance in dealing with their insurance company. We are also providing the air station funding for exercise equipment for a new, supervised therapeutic gym for veterans and service people with disabilities.

Sir, On behalf of my wife and myself, I would just like to say thank you for the giant blessing of the baby shower that we were able to attend. Words can’t describe how thankful and gracious we are for all the wonderful unexpected gifts. On March 17, my wife gave birth to a beautiful baby girl, 7 lbs., 10 oz. Thank you for all that you did for us as well as for others.

SSgt. Aaron M. Richards

Vehicle Maintenance Craftsman

Military Baby Showers Among the attendees of the March 8 Baby Shower at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst were two couples having twins and one young mom expecting five babies. After the shower, Col. and Bro. Jon Spare’s retirement ceremony was held.

The Horsham Air National Guard Station will be holding its first baby shower in May with parents from both the Army and Air Guard from Central to Eastern Pennsylvania.

Grand Master Bateman presents a special gift to a father expecting quintuplets.

Colonel Brooks, My name is 1Lt Bill Stainback, and I am in the 2nd Air Refueling Squadron at McGuire AFB. I got your email from Matt Dunphy at The Veterans Group. I was recently in charge of a service project that took volunteers from my squadron to The Veterans Group in Philadelphia. I understand that you donated the money that purchased the supplies that allowed for us to paint and clean the facilities on site.

I just wanted to let you know how grateful I am for your generosity. Your donation allowed us to improve the living conditions at The Veterans Group home and be effective during the time we had to volunteer. ... The Veterans Group is a great organization, but they were short on funding, and at one point, it looked like we might have to cancel since they didn't have the supplies we needed to help them out. Your donation saved the day, and we had a great time helping out fellow veterans and getting involved in a great cause.

We formed great relationships, and I think that some of the members of the 2nd will be returning on their own time to help out some more. Thanks again for your generosity.

It really did mean a lot to The Veterans Group and to the members of my squadron.

Very Respectfully, Bill C. Stainback, 1Lt, USAF Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J.

In Memoriam

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Ron F. Tunison (1947-2013) Ron F. Tunison died Oct. 19, 2013, at his home in Cairo, N.Y. He was the artist and sculptor of our beloved Friend to Friend Masonic Memorial at Gettysburg.

Mr. Tunison was a prolific artist, sculpting hundreds of monuments, plaques and busts including noted sports figures. He created four monuments at Gettysburg alone: The General Crawford Monument, near Little Round Top; the Friend to Friend Masonic Memorial in the National Cemetery Annex; the Delaware State Memorial; and the Elizabeth Thorn Women’s Memorial in the Evergreen Cemetery, on the other side of the National Cemetery Annex.

He was a devoted husband of Alice (celebrating their 40th anniversary) and father of three very talented children.

Rev. Bro. David L. Kinsey (1940-2014)

Rev. and Bro. David L. Kinsey, 33˚, Grand Chaplain, passed Feb. 6, 2014, at the age of 73.

He is survived by his wife, Peg; children Laura, Leslie and David F.; and six grandchildren.

Bro. Kinsey was made a Master Mason in South Hills Lodge No. 761 in 1958. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh while stationed in Ft. Hood, Texas.

He served as Potentate and Chaplain of Syria Shrine and served as Chaplain of Mid-Atlantic Shrine Association and as Imperial Chaplain. On July 7, 2010, Bro. Kinsey was named “Shriner of the Year of North America.” He was also a member of the Valley of Pittsburgh; Knights Templar; Royal Order of Scotland; Caravan 2, 4, 18 and 20; Jester’s Court No. 2; and Three Rivers Clan No. 3.

In 1969, Bro. Kinsey and his father purchased Kinsey Electric, Inc., Oakdale, Pa., of which he served as President. He was ordained as a priest in 1978. In 1985, Bro. Kinsey was named “Clergy Person of the Year.” He retired from St. Thomas Episcopal Church in 1994, where he served while also running Kinsey Electric. On Feb. 5, 2012, Rev. Kinsey was called to serve as Priest at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in McKeesport.

GRAND MASTER’S CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENTS June 24, 2014 LuLu Country Club North Hills, PA Benefits Masonic Charities Fee: $145 per golfer 10 a.m. Registration 11 a.m. Lunch Noon Shotgun Start 5 p.m. Social Hour 6 p.m. Dinner & Awards To play or sponsor, contact: William J. Greet 2125 Parkdale Avenue Glenside, PA 19038-5321 Cell 215-990-6497 Email wjgreet@verizon.net

July 17, 2014 Irem Country Club Dallas, PA Benefits Masonic Charities Fee: $120 per golfer 11 a.m. Lunch Noon Shotgun Start 4:30-5:30 p.m. Social Hour 5:30 p.m. Dinner & Awards To play or sponsor, contact: Grand Master’s Golf Tournament c/o Irem Country Club 397 Country Club Road Dallas, PA 18612 Phone 570-675-4465 ext. 241 or Ron Aungst, R.W.P.G.M. Phone 570-295-2560

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May 2014

Congratulations to…

Master Builders Awards

1

2

On Dec. 5, 2013, Bro. Gerald Kaltenbach, Butler Lodge No. 272, was presented with the Master Builders Award.

Photo 1: Bros. Wayne Frankenstein, D.D.G.M.-26; Gerald Kaltenbach, Butler Lodge No. 272; Allen Housholder, Harmony Lodge No. 429, Zelienople; and Gerald Wetzel, W.M., Butler Lodge, President of the Masonic School of Instruction for District 26.

On Dec. 12, 2013, Bro. John J. Nusida, Jr., Charleroi Lodge No. 615, was presented the Master Builders Award.

Photo 2: Bros. Robert C. Robison, W.M.; John Nusida; and Robert A. Farquhar, D.D.G.M.-31.

On Jan. 9, the Master Builders Award was presented to Bros. Michael J. Smith and Todd L. Wolfe, both of Union Lodge No. 324, Mifflintown.

Photo 3: Bros. Cory Snook, W.M.; Todd L. Wolfe; Michael J. Smith; and Terence I. Elliott, D.D.G.M.-19.

Grand Master’s Awards 3

4

6

5

On Dec. 2, 2013, Fayette Lodge No. 228, Uniontown, was presented its second Grand Master’s Award.

Photo 4: Bros. Franklin D. DeCarlo, W.M.; Robert A. Farquhar, D.D.G.M.-31; and Kiley B. Sexton, P.M. On Feb. 10, Tri-County Lodge No. 252, Donora, received the Grand Master’s Award from Robert A. Farquhar, D.D.G.M.-31 Photo 5: Bros. Richard C. Black, Jr., P.M.; Robert A. Farquhar, D.D.G.M.-31; and Ival C. Martin, Jr., W.M.

Other Awards

On Jan. 7, Bro. Dwayne E. Welling, King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346, Connellsville, received the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite National Medal for Masonic Service, given to a member who fully embodies the tenets of Freemasonry including selfless acts to society at large.

Photo 6: Bros. Jeffrey M. Wonderling, P.D.D.G.M.30; Gerald Sutherland, Westmoreland Lodge No. 518, Greensburg; Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W. Past Grand Master and A.A.S.R. Active; Dwayne E. Welling, King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346, Connellsville; Richard A. Rodibaugh, Commander-in-Chief of the Valley of Pittsburgh, A.A.S.R.; Timothy L. Shumar, D.D.G.M.-30; and Paul E. Burd, Brownsville Lodge No. 60.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Annual Grand Communication Highlights Dec. 26-27, 2013 • Philadelphia, PA

Distinguished Guests Then-Grand Master Jay W. Smith was pleased to receive distinguished guests from 14 Grand Jurisdictions and 18 Masonic bodies.

Presentations R.W. Grand Master Smith received plaques from Bro. George D. Seghers, Executive Director of the George Washington Masonic Memorial; Bro. Earl J. Washburn, Executive Director of the National Masonic Foundation for Children; and Bro. George O. Braatz, Executive Secretary of the Masonic Service Association and Past Grand Master of Ohio, for being supportive of the Masonic Service Association and the Hospital Visitation Program.

Bro. Braatz presented the Mark Twain Awareness Award to Jerusalem Lodge No. 506, Philadelphia, for demonstrating exemplary work in constructing a positive Masonic identity within the lodge and community.

Grand Master Smith presented a Bible to Bro. Richard B. Meredith, Most Excellent Past Grand High Priest of the Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter. He also presented the Outstanding Service Medal to Bro. Jeffrey M. Wonderling, P.D.D.G.M.-30, King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346, Connellsville; and the Pennsylvania Franklin Medal to Bro. Thomas C. Librandi, Prince Edwin-Spring Creek Lodge No. 486.

Grand Master Smith’s Final Address Grand Master Smith stated the past two years were a humbling experience. He appreciated the support provided for his programs (online Masonic education and Help for Our Heroes) and the contributions to help raise in excess of $400,000 for the Masonic Children’s Home’s Centennial Campaign.

Following the installation of the Grand Lodge officers, including Grand Master Robert J. Bateman, banquet attendees enjoyed dinner and entertainment by The Diamonds.

Photography by Bro. Kenneth R. Brooks

Presentations Grand Master Robert J. Bateman presented the Pennsylvania Franklin Medal to Bro. Jay W. Smith, R.W. Past Grand Master, AsharaCasiphia Lodge No. 551, Mount Joy; and Bro. G. Kent Hackney, P.D.D.G.M.-B, PhiladelphiaPotter Lodge No. 72, Philadelphia.

He also presented Past Grand Master Smith with his Past Grand Master’s Jewel, Apron, Lapel Pin and a Past Grand Master’s Commission.

Grand Master Bateman was pleased to make R.W. Past Grand Masters George H. Hohenshildt and Bro. Ronald A. Aungst, Sr., honorary Past District Deputy Grand Masters.

Grand Master Bateman’s cousin presented him with a Masonic Army cap. Bro. James R. Herrington, M.W. Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Alaska, presented keepsake boxes to Grand Master Bateman and Past Grand Master Smith.

Contributions Grand Master Bateman was pleased to accept contributions totaling $10,970 for the Masonic Charities.

Photos, top-bottom: Grand Master Smith presents the Outstanding Service Medal to Bro. Jeffrey M. Wonderling, P.D.D.G.M.-30.

Grand Master Smith presents the Pennsylvania Franklin Medal to Bro. Thomas C. Librandi, Prince Edwin-Spring Creek Lodge No. 486.

Past Grand Master Smith walks out with Grand Master Bateman, who presented him with the Pennsylvania Franklin Medal.

Grand Master Bateman presents the Pennsylvania Franklin Medal to G. Kent Hackney, P.D.D.G.M.-B. Grand Master Bateman holds up his new Masonic Army cap.

Grand Master Bateman and First Lady Joanne.

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May 2014

December Quarterly Communication Highlights

Photography by Bro. Bruce Levin

December 4, 2013 • Masonic Temple, Philadelphia

A total of 447 members, representing 194 lodges, attended.

The election of Grand Lodge officers and Committee on Masonic Homes was conducted.

The following mergers were approved: 1. Woodlawn Lodge No. 672 into St. James Lodge No. 457, Beaver, effective Dec. 19, 2013.

2. Fernwood Lodge No. 543 with Shekinah Lodge No. 246, Philadelphia, (now Shekinah-Fernwood Lodge No. 246) effective Dec. 27, 2013.

3. H. Stanley Goodwin Lodge No. 648 into Bethlehem Lodge No. 283, effective Dec. 27, 2013.

4. Union Lodge No. 334 with Bradford Lodge No. 749 (now Bradford Union Lodge No. 749, Bradford), effective Dec. 27, 2013.

5. Royersford Lodge No. 585 with Spring City Lodge No. 553 (now Spring-Ford Lodge No. 553, Royersford), effective Dec. 27, 2013.

Richard A. Heath, P.M., Worshipful Master of the newly constituted Hamilton Day Lodge No. 814, Stroudsburg, presented a crystal plaque to Grand Master Jay W. Smith.

Grand Master Smith presented Grand Master’s Awards to Lodge No. 43, Lancaster; Doylestown Lodge No. 245; Columbia Lodge No. 286, Wrightsville; Jerusalem Lodge No. 506, Philadelphia; and Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551, Mount Joy. He also awarded Master Builders Awards to 24 brethren, many of whom are pictured above.

Grand Master Smith was pleased to accept contributions to various Masonic charities totaling $228,772.90.

The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania announces the

JUNE QUARTERLY COMMUNICATION To be held at the Bayfront Convention Center, Erie, Pa., on

SATURDAY, JUNE 21, AT 10 A.M.

Open to all Master Masons.

Lunch will be provided immediately following the meeting. Masonic dress is required.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Random Acts of Kindness & Lodge Community Service Performing a random act of kindness is a simple way to bond with someone in your community. Community service initiatives are great for connecting with your neighbors, brothers and even your own family. Sometimes the smallest gestures make the biggest difference in the lives of others, as well as your own.

Visit www.pagrandlodge.org/rak to enter your random acts of kindness on the registry.

Special Delivery

Bro. Tommy Wynkoop (right) with staff at Fox’s Pizza Den: Carol, cook, and Bert, delivery staff.

When arctic temperatures and snowstorms hit the state in early January, Bro. Tom Wynkoop, Ligonier Lodge No. 331 and Tyrian Lodge No. 664, Lower Burrell, wanted to do more than just deliver pizzas from his shop, Fox’s Pizza Den. He made an announcement on Twitter that anyone who had respiratory issues and needed a prescription or anything else picked up should contact him on his personal cell phone. There was no requirement to purchase food. About half a dozen people took him up on his offer.

“It’s something we do. To me, it was nothing abnormal. This is our community. You have to have an invested interest. Love your neighbors,” Bro. Wynkoop said.

Once word of his effort got out in the community, local and national news stations picked up the story. A man walked into his shop and handed him $50. He didn’t want a pizza and just told Bro. Wynkoop he was doing a good job for the community. People from around the world began sending donations, which was a surprise to him since he wasn’t trying to raise money.

“I’m grateful people have recognized this act of kindness,” he said. “The reaction has been a big shock. It’s almost tough to handle it and remain humble.”

Bro. Wynkoop and his staff knew the local chapter of Meals on Wheels was also delivering through the winter weather. He matched the donations he received and presented a check to Ligonier Meals on Wheels for $2,000. He also delivered a check for $1,500 to the Ligonier Township police department for K-9 Officer Blek and is planning to set up three $500 scholarships at the Ligonier Valley High School.

His act of kindness is built on a foundation of morals and values formed through his Masonic experience, as well as time with the local EMS and fire department.

“When I was younger, I didn’t have any guidance in life. I was at a crossroads and didn’t really know what I wanted in life or what to do,” Bro. Wynkoop said. “I met a couple of guys in my area, who I didn’t know at the time were Masons. They told me I needed structure and discipline and something to stand for. I came from a broken home, and my mother had breast cancer. A lot of older people stepped up and re-educated me.”

To keep the kindness momentum going, Bro. Wynkoop is taking a proactive approach to let his community know where to find help. His drivers constantly have their eyes and ears open for needs, like a recent example of a woman who had surgery. Bro. Wynkoop called to see how she was doing and had a free pizza delivered to her house. He is having magnets printed with his personal cell phone and coordinating with Meals on Wheels to have them handed out to their clients.

“It’s fun. I enjoy doing what I do,” he said. “I can’t do what I do unless I have the right staff to help me. I’m very appreciative for what they do.”

LODGE AND DISTRICT 11

May 2014

Saving Lives; Supporting Children

The 1st Masonic District’s semi-annual blood drive was held Nov. 9, 2013, at the Lancaster Masonic Center and the Donegal Masonic Center. The district has been holding semi-annual blood drives for the past four years to support the Children’s Dyslexia Center of Lancaster.

Anyone who wanted to donate blood was able to choose a time and location on the 1st Masonic District website, www.firstmasonic.org, so there was very little waiting in line. Walk-ins were also welcomed.

Any member who donates blood one time becomes a Masonic Blood Donor Club member for life, and the member or anyone living under his roof will never have to pay for blood anywhere in the world.

The event is a win for members, the dyslexia center and those needing life-saving blood. The 1st Masonic District has donated more than $6,500 toward the center through its blood drives.

Helping a Veteran Find a Furry Friend

Watsontown American Legion Post 323 Past Commander Bro. Eugene E. Kline, Watsontown Lodge No. 401, presents a check for $500 to Susquehanna Motorcycle Club President Roger Kline. Also shown are Bros. Andrew E. Kline and Shane T. Fausey, both members of Watsontown Lodge No. 401, Masonic Motorcycle Club Chapter 38 and Watsontown American Legion Post 323.

On Nov. 16, 2013, members of Susquehanna Motorcycle Club and the Masonic Motorcycle Club Chapter 38 joined together to raise money for a wounded soldier.

U.S. Army veteran Josh Schutt, of Milton, Pa., served in active duty for six years during which he went on tours in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. While serving overseas, he was severely wounded when a .50 caliber machine gun exploded. Club members organized a motorcycle ride and an auction, and members and friends

donated food and a DJ. More than 100 motorcycles were present on that brisk November day. Riders stopped at the Milton VFW, Turbotville VFW and Watsontown American Legion before returning to the Susquehanna Motorcycle Club for refreshments.

Members of both organizations raised more than $7,000 in an effort to purchase a service dog for Josh from Service Dogs for World Peace, which he has since received. Once the goal was met, all remaining money was used to start an account for the next veteran in need of a service dog. Thanks to everyone who contributed, donated and participated that day!

Helping Hands Feed and Clothe Hundreds in Need

Bro. Jeffery Templeton, P.M., helps serve food in Love Park.

Thanks to Philadelphia-area Masons, approximately 200 homeless and less fortunate people received food and clothing at Love Park in Center City Philadelphia on Nov. 17, 2013. Members and spouses of FriendshipWilliams Lodge No. 400, Jenkintown; Prince Hall lodges; Star in the East Lodge No. 55; Widow’s Son Lodge No. 4, Philadelphia; students from Arcadia University; and members of the Warriors Motorcycle Club, a veterans support group, joined together to make the day a success.

Through the generosity of Cottage Green and Valley Catering manager Bro. Kevin Evans, Friendship-Williams Lodge No. 400 was able to provide hot food for the event. Lodge members also supplied sandwiches, hot coffee, bottles of water, cookies and crackers. Toiletries, new or gently used clothing and socks were also provided.

The event was organized and coordinated

by Friendship-Williams Lodge No. 400; Bro. Jeffery Templeton, P.M., and his wife, Adrian; and Bro. Cruz Rivera, Jr., and his wife, Jeanie.

Supporting Scouts

Members of Oakdale Lodge and Boy Scout Troop 248 Oakdale Lodge No. 669 welcomed 40 members of Boy Scout Troop 248, Oakdale, their troop leader and parents for a special dinner and program prior to their stated meeting in January.

After moving into the lodge room, Bro. James F. White, W.M., presented a short talk about the lodge room and the fraternity. Bro. Kenneth L. Carr, P.M., Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation representative, presented an overview of the LifeSkills and LifeChangers conferences. Bro. Warren H. Byers, J.W., gave an outline of the Masonic CHIP and presented a monetary donation to a youth scout leader.

In recent years, Oakdale Lodge has presented certificates and letters from the Grand Lodge to newly promoted Eagle Scouts, hoping it will be able to strengthen its ties to this great scouting organization and community. The guests had many great questions about Freemasonry, and it was an enriching evening. There was lots of laughter when one scout asked, “Why do those guys have swords?” The event concluded with dessert in the social room.

Bros. David A. McDade, J.W., Youth Committee Chairman, and Edward T. Barrick, W.M. Members of Prince Edwin-Spring Creek Lodge No. 486, Middletown, presented a check for $1,000 to Cub Scouts Pack 97, Londonderry Township, on Feb. 10. The money will be used to purchase a new Pinewood Derby Track for the pack.

Community involvement, especially with the youth, is a primary focus of the lodge. The money was raised from various fundraisers held throughout the year, including spaghetti dinners and other events. Members donate these funds, as well as operating funds, to Little League Baseball teams, Pennsylvania Masonic youth groups and others.

12 LODGE AND DISTRICT Dinner and a Show

Pennsylvania Freemason

Cron, a student at Delaware Valley Elementary School, sold popcorn during an event hosted by DVE-TV, a live, daily television show produced by the school’s sixth graders.

Taking the Plunge

Front row, l-r: Bros. Mark Hannan, Anthony Perry and Charles MacIntosh. Second row, l-r: Vince Delaney, Nelson Diaz, Mark Hogan and L. Joseph Brunelle, P.M. Top row, l-r: John Descano, P.M.; James Wakeley; and Ariel Gonzalez. Not shown: Bros. Barry Epstein, W.M.; Lawrence J. Hubert, Jr., P.M.; Stephen Long, Secretary; and Doug Fink.

Hospitality is a dish best served from the heart as demonstrated at the 2nd Annual Ronald McDonald House Guest Chef Charity Event sponsored by Lodge No. 2, Philadelphia.

On Jan. 26, led by Bro. Ariel Gonzelez, 14 members broke up into four teams and donned aprons to participate in their own rendition of “Iron Chef America.” Each team prepared a signature dish and served it to 100 guests of the Ronald McDonald House. As dinner was served, Bros. Lawrence J. Hubert, Jr., P.M.; John Descano, P.M.; and Doug Fink, all LuLu Shriners, put on their clown faces and entertained the children with balloon animals, sketch comedy and magic tricks.

Lodge members listened to stories shared by the families. The real winners of the competition were the children. Part of the lodge’s pledge to community outreach, this charity drive is one example of how Freemasonry, fraternity and fellowship can leave a lasting impression on the local community.

The Ronald McDonald House provides room and board for families while their seriously ill children receive medical treatments at local hospitals, such as the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

A Kernel of Kindness

Bros. Craig S. VanDunk, J.M.C., and Fred W. Cron, P.M., helped a local student raise money for a trip to Washington, D.C., by donating supplies for a popcorn machine. Alex

A Friendly Fix Bro. Frederick Franke, Phoenix Lodge No. 75, Phoenixville, learned that an elderly couple with a water line leak under their trailer had no money for a plumber. Using his experience as a construction manager, Bro. Franke crawled under their trailer and fixed the leak for them. “They were extremely grateful for my effort,” he said.

“I am semi-retired from gainful employment, so I have the time, the tools and the knowledge.”

Santa’s Helper

The 440 Freeze-Masons, l-r: Bros. Shawn Shelhamer, Bo Rodrigues, Bill Vogel and William Vogel.

A four-man team from Slatington Lodge No. 440, dubbed 440 Freeze-Masons, took part in the Lehigh Valley Polar Plunge at Scott Park in Easton on Jan. 18 to benefit the Special Olympics.

The dedicated group even participated in the Super Plunge, beginning at noon on Jan. 17. Every hour for 24 hours, the Freeze-Masons took a dip in a large inflatable pool outside Grand Easton Hotel. While some teams had one member participate in the Super Plunge, all Freeze-Masons united and plunged as a team even when light snow began to fall at 4 a.m. At noon on Jan. 18, they jumped in the Delaware River. Both the pool and the river were a balmy 40 degrees.

Each team was required to raise a minimum of $1,500. The Freeze-Masons raised more than $2,400, and the entire event raised more than $110,000.

Braving the Ice for a Cause

For the third year, dozens of lodge members from District 2 took an icy dip for the Special Olympics. Matincheck’s Marauders raised approximately $4,000, their highest total yet.

After event organizers used chainsaws, picks and axes to remove 12-inch thick ice to make room for participants, the brethren took the plunge on Feb. 22 at Pinchot State Park.

The plungers had a good time, as did those who showed up to support them. The event raised approximately $120,000 for the Special Olympics.

Truly getting into the spirit of the season, Bro. Cameron Smith, Fritz Lodge No. 308, Conshohocken, took the good with the bad to help others this winter. He used his snow blower to clear the sidewalk for his entire block and then did each of the driveways that were not shoveled yet. He also played Santa for patients at a local hospital where he works and organized a Salvation Army stocking stuffing in which about a dozen kids received toys. He played Secret Santa for a deserving family, dropping off a large change-filled mason jar with more than $300 collected from co-workers.

Bro. Smith’s other efforts have included helping stranded motorists, acting as a handyman for a member of his church, rebuilding homes in Kentucky, donating blood and running in a 5K in March to raise money for a local fire company. If anyone tries to give him money for his services, he just hands them a card promoting Pennsylvania Freemasons and Random Acts of Kindness.

“Knowing that by taking a few minutes – or even several hours – to assist those who need it, always leaves me with a smile and the knowledge that I’ve done what I can to help,” Bro. Smith said. “Part of the obligation I took as a Mason was to assist every brother in need, and I do. But a more important notion is to assist every person in need. Making good men better sometimes requires that I spend more time away from my family, but they generally understand and support my many causes.”

LODGE AND DISTRICT 13

May 2014

Lodges Join in Car Show for Charity

On Oct. 13, 2013, Portland Lodge No. 311 and Pen Argyl Lodge No. 594 held a car and truck show on the grounds of the Blue Valley Farm Show to raise funds for the Masonic Children’s Home.

Under the leadership of Worshipful Masters at the time Bros. Kale Baker of Portland Lodge No. 311, and Norman Lippincott of Pen Argyl Lodge No. 594 and Hamilton Day

Lodge No. 814, Stroudsburg, an enthusiastic group of younger Masons, many of whom had only been members of the Craft for a year or less, organized the event. They included Portland Lodge brothers Bob Abbott, Justin Ott, Thadd Taylor, Pat Howarth and Carl Palmeri.

The car show exceeded everyone’s expectations, with over 140 cars and 25

heavy duty trucks registered and on display.

On the day of the show, 40-50 Masons from both lodges worked all or part of the day registering cars, directing traffic, assisting with the CHIP event and helping the Farm Show staff cook breakfast and lunch for the large crowds, among other tasks. The Blue Valley Farm Show not only allowed the use of their grounds but donated all of the profits from their food sales to the lodges to add to the total earned.

The day was eventful. Visitors witnessed two live demonstrations of police dog training by the Bangor Borough Police Department, and Miller-Keystone Blood Bank collected 22 pints of blood in its bloodmobile. Vendors lined the main entrance, and a DJ entertained all day. Children enjoyed hayrides and a bounce tent.

The show netted over $4,100, which was divided between the lodges for donation to the Masonic Children’s Home.

Plans are already in the works for a second car show in the Slate Belt on Oct. 12, 2014.

Lodge Secures Bible Of Namesake On Jan. 13, members of Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, were pleased to receive the Bible belonging to the Treichler family, originally owned by Dr. and Bro. Abraham Treichler for whom the lodge is named. This family heirloom was donated

by Mrs. Karen Sensemen, of Highspire, the great-grandaughter of Dr. Treichler. The Bible is believed to be nearly 150 years old.

Dr. Treichler was a physician in the Elizabethtown area in the early 1900s. An

Lodge Hosts Christmas Party Bedford Lodge No. 320 celebrated its annual Christmas Family Gathering on Dec. 7, 2013, at the Bedford Masonic Temple. Approximately 50 brethren, family, and friends attended.

Everyone brought a covered dish to share with the meal, and while the adults enjoyed a Christmas ornament exchange, the 15 children were treated to an early visit from Santa, who brought them gifts.

active Freemason, he was intimately involved in bringing the Masonic Villages to Elizabethtown and would later serve as its first attending physician.

Front: Mrs. Karen Sensemen and Bro. Stephen E. Poff, WM. Second row: Bros. Robert G. Gregoire, P.M., Secretary; Seth C. Anthony, S.D. and Lodge Historian; and Jeffrey A. Schmidt, J.W. Top: Bros.

H. Eugene Geib, P.M., S.W.; and Lawrence R. Ebersole, P.M., Treasurer.

14 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason

Masonic Reunions

Pennsylvania Masons Reunite in Florida

Almost 500 Pennsylvania Masons, their wives and widows who reside permanently in Florida or who visit there during the winter, attended the Florida Masonic Reunions in March. Held in Tampa, Sarasota and Palm Beach Gardens, the reunions provided opportunities for the attendees to receive information on services provided at the Masonic Villages. R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman presented eligible members in attendance with their years of service emblems and awards. Pictures show the Grand Lodge officers with the 60-year Service Emblem recipients at each of the Masonic reunions.

Annual Eastern Pennsylvania Masonic Family Picnic at

Saturday, June 14, 2014 Mail your ticket requests to: Linda Matthews, 139 W. Richardson Ave., Langhorne, PA 19047-2827

Rain or Shine

Dorney Park 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Wildwater Kingdom 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

“All You Can Eat” menu served noon to 5 p.m.

Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Baked Beans, Potato Salad, Soda, Ice Cream, Condiments and more!

All Tickets $35

Children ages 2 years and under are admitted free of charge.

ADMISSION PRICE PAYS FOR BOTH PARKS Covered pavilion for meals

Make Checks Payable to “Masonic Picnic”

_________ No. Tickets at $35..................................... $_________ Total Amount Enclosed $______________________________ Check#____________________________________________ Name______________________________________________ Address____________________________________________ __________________________________________________ Phone _____________________________________________ Lodge___________District_____________________________ Absolute Deadline for Ticket Reservations - May 31, 2014

LODGE AND DISTRICT 15

May 2014

Bro. J. Kevin Jones Leads to Succeed Bro. J. Kevin Jones, District Deputy Grand Master for District 35, enjoys helping people with various issues. “It makes you feel good,” he said.

It’s something he has done throughout his career, as well as through his Masonic involvement.

Having just retired at the start of this year, Bro. Jones served his community in public office for 26 years, including 16 years (four terms) as Mayor of Mount Carmel Borough and 10 years on the Mount Carmel Area School Board, including a term as president. It was the same school from which he graduated in 1974, having served as class president for all four years.

Bro. Jones also taught in the Southern Columbia Area School District, Catawissa, for 32 years, where he was a cross country and girls track coach for 30 years.

A natural lifelong leader, Bro. Jones decided to run for mayor for the first time in 1997 because of how borough officials handled a problem at his church, First United Methodist, in 1996.

The church’s tower was not in good condition at the time, and he received an urgent phone call while he was on vacation advising him the borough had condemned the church building.

Upon his return, borough officials did not respond to requests for a meeting and didn’t even return his phone calls.

“I thought I would give it a valiant effort.

If I didn’t win, I knew there was no dishonor in losing,” he said. Bro. Jones campaigned on his record of community involvement, and won. He won re-election three times - in 2001, 2005 and 2009. He didn’t really intend to run for a fourth term, but only did so at the request of friends and supporters because of the borough’s 150th anniversary celebration in 2012. He announced early on that he would not run for a fifth term.

Bro. Jones is proud of the borough’s improved efforts in code enforcement and the performance of the police department, which he believes is more community-oriented than ever before. He estimates that he spent 90 percent of his time responding to citizen inquiries and concerns.

Bro. Jones even responded to his constituents when he was out of town or on vacation; in fact, many of the people who called him didn’t even realize he was hundreds of miles away at the time.

He viewed the role of mayor as being “the most visible point person” for the borough. “I had a great time,” he said. Through his tenure, Bro. Jones represented the borough at countless veterans, civic and Scouting events and parades,

and officiated at about 250 wedding ceremonies, both within the borough limits and out of town, from small private homes to upscale resorts and on farmland. His brother, Magisterial District Judge Hugh A. Jones, P.M. Cedar Lodge No. 378. Mount Carmel, and P.D.D.G.M.-58, also provides these services.

Bro. Jones was appointed to the school board in 1982 at age 26, and was elected to four-year terms in 1983 and 1987. He was board president at age 29. During this time, he also served as president of the board at the Northumberland County Area Vocational-Technical School and was Mount Carmel Area’s representative on the Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit board of directors.

Even while attending Mansfield University (which later named him Outstanding Young Alumni of the Year), Bro. Jones was actively involved in local political campaigns. He served as chairman of the Mount Carmel Borough Republican Party from 1979 to 1982, and was chairman in 1980 of George H. W. Bush’s primary campaign and the Reagan-Bush general election campaign in Northumberland County. Marvin Bush was a guest in his home while visiting Mount Carmel on behalf of his father.

During his “retirement,” Bro. Jones works part-time at Bro. Ray W. Rothermel’s funeral home in Mount Carmel (who is also a member of Cedar Lodge) and looks forward to spending more time in Florida and on cruises with his wife, Donna. He also plans to remain active as Secretary/Treasurer of the Fraternity Rod and Gun Club in Woodward, a hunting club formed primary by local Masons.

Bro. Jones vows to remain involved in his community, especially with the Mount Carmel Lions Club, where he has served as president several times, and on the boards of the Mount Carmel Cemetery (where he also serves as manager), with Family Home Medical and with Sons of Union Veterans. He is president of the board of trustees at First United Methodist Church, and in fact donated his mayoral salary (total of $38,400 over 16 years) to the church.

He also commits a lot of time to Freemasonry.

Coming from a long line of Masons, he became a member of Cedar Lodge No. 378, Mount Carmel, in 1979. Bro. Jones served his lodge in several capacities including as Worshipful Master in 1988 and again in 1996. He was the Vice President of the lodge’s Hall Association group when the

lodge sold its former building and renovated and moved into its current temple.

Bro. Jones became District Deputy Grand Master in 2012. “In addition to meeting some nice friends across the state, the experience has opened my eyes to the importance, or higher purpose, of the Grand Lodge, something you aren’t always aware of until you get involved at this level,” he said.

“I’ve always tried to stand for what Freemasonry represents,” Bro. Jones said. “To me, giving back to my church and community are part of being a Mason.”

16 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason

FUN FAIR:

Family Involvement at its Finest Oriental Lodge No. 460, Orangeville, began as a small lodge situated along beautiful Fishing Creek in the rural community of Orangeville Borough, just north of Bloomsburg.

Warranted in 1870, it met in the Odd Fellows Fraternity building on and off until the early 1970s, when the building was sold. Oriental Lodge decided to build a new lodge of its own.

From 1975-1977, the lodge’s 235 members donated $30,000 for capital toward the project.

On April 22, 1978, they were able to dedicate their new lodge on Route 487, where they meet today, but they still had to find a way to meet the mortgage payments.

That summer, two husband and wife teams, Bro. C. Harold Bankes, P.M., and his wife, Marqueen, along with Bro. Dean R. Kelchner, P.M., and his wife, Peggy, planned a festival to raise the needed funds. They lined up volunteers and entertainment, set up stands and prepared the food. In August 1978, the first annual Flea Market and Fun Fair was held on the grounds of Oriental Lodge.

The festival continued on through the 1980s and grew in size and income, so that in 1984, just six short years after its inception, the Lodge Hall held a mortgage burning ceremony.

Through the years, the festival grew until, at one point, there were more than 100 flea market vendors on site, operating from Thursday afternoon through Saturday evening.

Not only did the lodge benefit financially from the festival, it grew in membership from 235 members in 1978. Today, more than 340 in 1985. Today, membership stands at 408.

17th Annual Meeting in the Hills Saturday, June 28, 2014 Held Outdoors at Christner’s Grove near Dawson, Pa. Casual Dress – No Shorts, Blue Jeans or Collarless Shirts Light Jacket Recommended

It took the families of many of the members to continue to make the festival a success, and this interaction developed into a bond, a network of family unity, that made the lodge so desirable to join.

The lodge was not only able to keep its dues structure low, but built a savings for rainy days. In addition, it started a scholarship fund for four local school districts, and awards $500 to one senior from each of the four schools each year.

This year will be the 37th annual Fun Fair festival.

Brothers Bankes and Kelchner each served as a Secretary of the lodge for more than 20 years. As the Committee Chairmen for the Fun Fair, along with the continued support of their wives and families, they have served for more than 35 years. Oriental Lodge is forever in their debt, for not being in debt.

Top photo: “1989 midway” taken from lodge roof Middle photo: Bros. John P. Reinford, J.W., and Barry L. Rider, Pursuviant, behind the grill Bottom photo: “Lodge & Tent” 2013 - Many customers under the chicken BBQ tent and in front of the lodge.

You’re Invited!

37th Annual Fun Fair August 7-9 Oriental Lodge grounds 2547 State Route 487 Orangeville, PA 17859

King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346, Connellsville, will host this annual outdoor event. All Master Masons are welcome.

A 12 oz. New York strip steak dinner will be served at 5 p.m. Following dinner, a special meeting of King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346 will be held.

Tickets are $25 and may be ordered from Bro. Richard E. Bigley at 107 Ashton Drive, Mt. Pleasant, PA 15666.

Please send a self-addressed stamped envelope with payment.

Checks should be made payable to the: CDS Building Corp. All ticket orders must be received by Monday, June 24.

Phone: 724-547-2367 or email: bigs@zoominternet.net

LODGE AND DISTRICT 17

May 2014

Newtown Lodge Presents: Movies Under the Stars

Newtown Lodge No. 427 is planning for its fourth season of “Movies Under the Stars,” a monthly series of outdoor movies shown at no charge during the summer.

The movies are a unique way for the lodge to introduce itself to the local community, like “informal open houses.” Members give tours of the building and answer questions about Freemasonry and affiliated bodies (Order of the Eastern Star, Amaranth, Rainbow Girls and DeMolay) that also meet in the building.

It’s also a great opportunity for members to introduce their own families to the lodge. It offers everyone who comes a chance to spend a fun-filled evening with their family without costing them a fortune.

In preparation for opening night, Bros.

Charles Simon, P.M., and Christopher Stone, P.M., researched various options. They discovered that renting movie screens and projectors was expensive, so they found that they could project a movie with good quality by playing it on a PlayStation® and projecting it though a member’s Sony projector onto a 35-foot wide white tarp mounted on the back of their building. They borrowed a couple of large speakers and rented a popcorn machine.

Sixty people attended that evening, enjoying the free movie and popcorn.

Word of mouth got around, because the next month’s movie was attended by 150 people, and members decided “Movies Under the Stars” was a success. They fine-tuned it over the years and made some adjustments.

For example, to offset the movie rental cost,

members donate candy (Bro. Simon doesn’t recommend chocolate bars since they melt in the summer heat) and beverages (soda, juice boxes and water) which they offer through the concession stand on a donation basis. Instead of renting a popcorn machine for $75/night, they purchased a machine for around $400, which paid for itself the first season.

They show five movies a season, which starts around Memorial Day and runs through just after Labor Day. Some of the movies they have shown are: “Tangled,” “How to Train Your Dragon,” “Cars” and “Shrek.”

Attendance now averages between 250-300.

Last summer, 500 people attended a showing of “Cinderella,” including a few young girls donning princess gowns.

Although many young children would not sit through a movie in a regular theater setting, the shows, being outdoors, allow the kids to get up and move around without fear of disturbing others. People bring their own lawn chairs and/or blankets to sit on in the 3.5-acre field behind the lodge building.

Several families come out an hour or so before the movie starts and let their kids run around and burn off a little energy before the show.

Someone always throws a couple of balls out on the field and the kids just kick them around and play before show time.

“We have received a lot of positive feedback and expressions of gratitude from the attendees,” Bro. Simon said. They have even had several audience members donate cases of bottled water and soda as a thank you for showing the movies. “We encourage everyone who comes out to spread the word and bring friends and family members back with them to our next show. We have people come from all over our local area. One group of about 10 cousins make the 15-mile trip from Hamilton, N.J., and attend nearly every show. We even have had a family come from Wilkes Barre, Pa., to see a few of our shows,”

he added.

Bro. “Popcorn Master” (as he has come to be called) Simon has a few bits of advice for any lodges looking to emulate their movie series: 1. The movies you show must be licensed; you cannot legally show your personal copy to a crowd as it would violate copyright laws, and the fines run into thousands of dollars.

Licensing rights to show each movie costs in the $250-$350 range.

2. Check with your township government and police department to see if any permits are required, as local laws vary.

3. If you have neighbors, contact them and let them know your plans.

Is it worth it? According to Bro. Simons, it sure is!

In-depth conversations made possible through the goodwill shown by the “Movies Under the Stars” series have led to understanding and friendships between Newtown Lodge No. 427 and its community.

18 FREEMASON

Pennsylvania Freemason

The Initiatic Experience: Ancient Pathways that Led to Your Initiation into Freemasonry by Robert Herd Reviewed by Cathy Giaimo, Assistant Librarian, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania One of the most important features of Freemasonry is its ritual. Much has been written on how to make the ritual experience more meaningful to the initiate and to those performing it. Bro. Robert Herd, Colorado Mason, has written “The Initiatic Experience: Ancient Pathways that Led to Your Initiation into Freemasonry” to put the Masonic ritual experience into a spiritual context.

Bro. Herd begins by discussing some of the ancient mystical rites of Egypt, specifically a coffin text that describes an actual initiation event. This ritual appears to have parallel ideas to Masonic ritual as the candidate goes through a series of initiation rites to achieve enlightenment. Also covered in the first half of the book is an account of the Eleusinian Mysteries, Pythagorean philosophy, its link to Hermeticism and the mystic Islamic sect, Sufism.

By explaining how these various ancient philosophic orders traveled throughout the ancient Egyptian and Hellenistic world, Bro. Herd brings the reader to the 15th century where the ancient ways were re-discovered and modern philosophers incorporated them into their thinking. The final chapters discuss alchemy, the history of the Knights Templar, the Kabbalah and Rosicrucians, and their influences on the formation of Freemasonry.

All of these philosophies lead to what the initiation experience can be for a newly-made Mason, as well as the initiators. The 21st century Mason is not so different than his ancient forebears in searching for light. It is Bro. Herd’s desire, expressed in his final chapter, that the men searching for light and understanding in their Masonic rituals take it upon themselves to truly explore and study these rituals and pass along their knowledge to their brothers.

To borrow “The Initiatic Experience,” please contact the library at 800-462-0430, ext. 1933 or visit The Masonic Library & Museum online catalog at www.pagrandlodge.org.

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

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

Cost Calculator for each book...

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

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

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

FREEMASON 19

May 2014

Gift Planning for a Future that Reflects Your Loves, Values and Priorities is a Lifelong Process We’ve heard of wedding planners and financial planners, but most individuals have never worked with a gift planner. If we were to make a guess about what a gift planner does, maybe we would say it is someone who helps us figure out what we might give our spouse on an upcoming wedding anniversary!

In actuality, gift planning, as provided by the professionals of the Masonic Charities of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, involves helping people navigate the planning process for making charitable gifts in the future, when everything is passed to the next generation.

Masonic Charities employs four regional gift planners to serve Pennsylvania Masons and their families, both here in our state and throughout the country.

There are four simple steps in the gift planning process: • Reflect upon your life experiences, the people you love and the values you hold.

• Evaluate your current plans and documents.

• Update your plans to reflect your current loves, values and priorities.

• Decide if charitable plans should be publicly acknowledged or remain anonymous.

One of the most common objections to gift planning is, “I’m too young (or too old).”

Some people object, “There won’t be anything left when I die” or “I already made my plans many years ago.” Gift planning is not just for people of a particular age or of a certain wealth or income. Bro. Alvin Blitz, Chief Gift Planning Officer of the Masonic Charities tells us, “Gift planning is a lifelong process for people of all ages, assets and incomes.”

Lodge of Research

Gift planning is especially important: • Upon retirement • Upon the birth, graduation, marriage, divorce or retirement of your children and grandchildren • Upon the death of a spouse • Upon changes in tax laws • Upon buying or selling real estate • Upon changes in investment values In 2013, the Office of Gift Planning of the Masonic Charities developed a new workshop and planning workbook that guides individuals through the process of making plans for a future that reflects your loves, values and priorities. The workshop and workbook have been piloted at some of our Masonic Villages and at receptions held throughout the country for Pennsylvania Masons now living outside of the state.

For a copy of the workbook or to consult with a gift planner, please see the back cover.

The Pennsylvania Lodge of Research will meet on Saturday, June 14, at 9 a.m., at the Hilton Scranton & Conference Center, 100 Adams Avenue in Scranton. Several research papers on Masonic topics will be presented. All Master Masons are invited to attend the meeting at no charge. The meeting will end before noon, and a buffet luncheon in conjunction with the Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter of Pennsylvania will be provided at a modest cost. If you would like to stay for lunch, please contact Bro. Theodore W. Schick, Secretary, at tschick@ptd.net to make a reservation.

20 FREEMASON

Pennsylvania Freemason

AUTUMN Saturday, September 20, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Join members and friends in celebrating Autumn Day at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. The event will feature entertainment, information, delicious food served from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., farm market stands, children’s games, lots of Masonic family organization booths and much more.

This year, we will focus on honoring our veterans. The special highlight will be the 11 a.m. dedication of the eternal flame in the Veterans Grove, including a special program honoring our military and thanking those who have sacrificed for our freedom.

Autumn Day provides the perfect opportunity to visit with family members, reunite with friends and tour parts of the 1,400-acre campus.

The Masonic Village is unable to provide wheelchairs, so please bring your own, if needed. Handicap parking is available; however, you must advise the Masonic Village on the coupon below if handicap parking is needed, so a special parking pass can be forwarded to you in advance.

The Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank will be holding a blood drive to benefit Masonic Village residents on Autumn Day. Donations will be taken at the blood bank stand from 9 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Anyone 17 years of age or older, who is in good health and weighs at least 100 lbs., is eligible to donate blood. Anyone interested in donating blood should make an appointment by calling 800-771-0059 between 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday. Please do not call the Masonic Village for these appointments.

11 a.m. program will honor veterans. Fill out coupon to register to attend.

For Handicap or Bus Parking or Veterans Reservations Only

Address_________________________________________________________________________________ City_____________________________________State_____________Zip___________________________  Need Handicap Parking*  Charter Bus Complete and return to: Autumn Day, Masonic Village One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022 * Enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope with this coupon. We will send you a special parking permit, if needed, which must be presented upon arrival. Veterans will be recognized.

AUTUMN DAY 2014

Name____________________________________________________________________________________ Lodge No._______________________________________________________________________________ No. of Adults_______________ No. of Children______________ No. of Veterans_______________ In which military branch did each veteran attending serve?  Air Force  Army  Coast Guard  Marines  Merchant Marines  Navy

FREEMASON 21

May 2014

DAY 2014 join us in lighting

AN ETERNAL FLAME honoring all active

military and veterans

An eternal flame monument will be installed at the Veterans Grove at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown and dedicated on Autumn Day, Sept. 20, serving as a tribute and symbol of gratitude to the brave service men and women who preserve our freedom, including those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. A plaque on the front of the eternal flame will state: “All gave some ... Some gave all.”

If you would like to honor or remember a beloved veteran, pavers (size 12” x 18”) around the eternal flame can be inscribed with a

special message for a $500 donation. Additionally, pavers (size 8” x 12”) leading to and around the monument can be inscribed for a $250 donation. Contributions to the Masonic Charities are taxdeductible to the extent of the law.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to become a part of this meaningful tribute for posterity.

All orders for a paver must be received no later than May 15 to guarantee installation for the dedication on Sept. 20.

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

Name (donor) _______________________________________________________________ Address____________________________________________________________________ City ______________________________ State __________________________ Zip ________ Phone ( ) _____________________ Email ____________________________________ Choose a paver size:  12”x18” Paver ($500) will accommodate 5 lines with no more than 20 characters per line  8”x12” Paver ($250) will accommodate 4 lines with no more than 14 characters per line

Please print paver inscription below exactly as you would like it to appear; spaces are included in character count. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Please return both completed form and check payable to the Masonic Charities to:

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

22 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason

LifeSkills Conference Builds Leaders “No one can really know what you are called to or what you are capable of but you.

Even if no one sees or understands, you are irreplaceable.” – Mark Nepo, poet & philosopher Every summer, the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation (PMYF) brings children ages 12-17 from throughout the world to the Patton Campus in Elizabethtown.

The youth gain experience according to their capabilities through a series of social/ emotional, mental and physical challenges.

Each year, more than 100 students and 30 staff instructors explore leadership from the inside out. Through safe, supportive and developmentally appropriate teams, they discover their capabilities, significance and worthiness. Some students arrive cautious and tentative but leave empowered, knowing they are capable of greatness.

PMYF, through the LifeSkills Conference, is positively impacting school organizations, buildings and districts. The LifeSkills staff and participants return to their schools and help them understand the integration of social/emotional learning with academic achievement. They leave with written plans of action defining how they will be servant leaders to their schools, communities, houses of worship, organizations and families.

The essence of the Pennsylvania Masonic LifeSkills Conference is to create caring and compassionate young men and women.

Participants become change-agents who understand that leadership is not about accolades, but about helping all to achieve.

An essential ingredient in that achievement is the service they must provide to their

communities and fellow human beings. They learn and practice the philosophy that, “As we serve others, we improve ourselves.” True prosperity is not measured in acquisitions and bank statements; rather, it is measured in the joy of making the world a little better because of kind-heartedness and genuine concern for the welfare of others. Every step forward in service and leadership benefits everyone.

LifeSkills is not just an average summer camp but a life-changing opportunity for young men and women to discover and experience the power that Respect, Responsibility and Relationship building the “3Rs” play in preparing them for fulfilling and successful lives. With a variety of fun, adventure-based problem solving and team-building experiences, LifeSkills is a leadership conference like none other available to our youth. Participants choose their level of challenge, with opportunities to grow and succeed more and more each day, leading to the ultimate physical and mental challenge of a high ropes course at week’s end.

There is also the LifeChangers Conference for youth between the ages of 17-21 that provides LifeSkills graduates and others the opportunity to develop additional leadership skills, learn to teach and model the “3 R’s” that are the foundation of the LifeSkills program and to train in group facilitation. Luv Iyer, a participant in the 2013 LifeChangers program, noted that, “This conference has been a transformative experience, teaching

me to value other people; that service to humanity devoid of any selfish motive is the greatest satisfaction possible.”

Through the generous support of Pennsylvania Masons, the cost for first-time LifeSkills and LifeChangers attendees is $300, and the cost for second-time attendees is $450. Districts, lodges and individuals are encouraged to sponsor youth participation by helping a young person enroll or by providing all or part of the registration fee for a firsttime participant chosen by a local school, lodge or Masonic youth group.

The Pennsylvania Masonic LifeSkills Conference will be held July 20-25 in Elizabethtown. Further information and registration details are available at www.pmyf.org or by calling the PMYF office at 800-266-8424.

Thom Stecher

Thom Stecher is the President of Stecher and Associates, which conducts the Masonic Model Student Assistance Program training sponsored by the National Masonic Foundation for Children. He is the creator of the Pennsylvania Masonic LifeSkills Program and a member of Thomson Lodge No. 340, Paoli.

May 2014

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION 23

Why They Love Jobies For the month of February, Pennsylvania Job’s Daughters asked our members why they love “Jobies.” We received dozens of entries from girls around the state who were excited to share with everybody why they love being a Job’s Daughter.

Like the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, our “Jobies” know the importance of Job’s Daughters being a family organization. Sarah from Bethel #15 wrote that, “Ever since I’ve joined Job’s Daughters, I’ve felt like I’ve belonged.” And many others agree! A large number of our members wrote how they loved that “Jobies” felt like a large, loving family.

“We LOVE coming together as a family to do things for others,” writes Bethel #12’s Mollie. Mollie also told us that the charity for her Honored Queen term is the Four Diamonds Fund, which allows Job’s Daughters to help children with pediatric cancer. Kids helping kids is a big part of “Jobies,” and many of our girls wrote about how they love doing community service and supporting charities that help other children.

Lastly, a lot of entries came in with girls explaining their fear of public speaking. Alyssa from Bethel #15 felt the same way. She wrote, “My Bethel adults/daughters helped me overcome my problems.” And, for this reason, she stated that, “I’m so glad I became a Job’s Daughter!”

One of the best things, though, was that many of the girls could not pick just one thing they loved about “Jobies,” and that’s what we aim for in Job’s Daughters!

PA’s First Rainbow Masonic Family Assembly Events Rainbow assemblies enjoy being included Celebrates 85 Years in Masonic events as part of the Masonic New Castle Assembly No. 1 celebrated its 85th anniversary on Jan. 19. The assembly held a special stated meeting with stations filled by current members of the assembly and a few majority members of New Castle. During the meeting, Past Grand Officers, Past Worthy Advisors, Past Deputies, Past Mother Advisors and Majority Members were recognized in the West and each was asked to share a memory from her term, then honored with the Sign of Rainbow. Mrs. Helen Snedden, Supreme Deputy, and Bro. Wayne Frankenstein, D.D.G.M.-26, encouraged the assembly to continue to grow.

Worshipful Masters of the district and the District Youth Representative attended, and the members of the Care-A-Lot Pledge Group participated.

Following the meeting, there was a buffet dinner amidst a display of memorabilia from the assembly throughout the years.

family! Local assemblies were grateful for the invitation to attend many of the new District Deputy Grand Master presentations. In addition to being formally recognized by R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman, the Rainbow Girls were introduced to public Masonic ritual and protocol and enjoyed hearing about the new Grand Lodge programs.

Front row, l-r: SarahJane Carter, Grand Standard Bearer-Maryland Flag; Kathryn Webster, Grand Worthy Advisor; Richard McCleary, D.D.G.M.-53; Mrs. Helen Snedden, Supreme Deputy; and Amanda Lewis, Grand Treasurer. Back row (members of Franklin Assembly #19) l-r: Stephanie Kiesel, Savannah Carr, Carley Kiesel and Kasi Ferringer.

Assembly Sends Love to Our Troops

During the month of January, members of the Beaver Valley Assembly No. 187 traveled to other Rainbow meetings and events and had the youth sign valentines. They packaged the cards in small gift bags and shipped them overseas to send love to those serving in the U.S. military. The assembly also sent “thank you” packages at Christmas time.

24 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason

PA DeMolay Honors “Uncle Ralph”

Bro. Ralph C. Minehart On March 8, nearly 50 DeMolays and adult leaders gathered at the grave of the founder of DeMolay in Pennsylvania. For the last nine months, Pennsylvania DeMolay has been celebrating its 90th anniversary by honoring the heritage of those who have come before. Tens of thousands of Pennsylvania men have received positive experiences through DeMolay in our Commonwealth throughout those nine decades, but none of this would have been possible had it not been for the dedication and zeal of one brother: Ralph Carlos Minehart, of the former Crescent

Lodge No. 576, Pittsburgh.

Bro. Minehart was an active member of the fraternity, rising through the ranks of both the York and Scottish Rites. While his name may not be as familiar to Pennsylvania Masons as Vaux1, Africa2, MacCalla3 or Bateman, he has had a lasting impact on our fraternity through his support and founding of DeMolay in Pennsylvania, while serving as Grand Commander of Knights Templar in the Commonwealth, and later, as the first Executive Officer for DeMolay in the state.

Bro. Minehart’s grave is located in the Union Dale Cemetery, just north of Pittsburgh.

Once forgotten, the grave of “Uncle” Ralph, as he was then known to the young men of his day, was found to be in good condition. Bro. Matthew S. Maple, State Master Councilor of Pennsylvania DeMolay, led a sunset memorial service to honor the founder, which included the reading of several eulogies. A short sermon was presented by Rev. and Bro. David J. Williamson, Senior DeMolay and Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.

The program concluded with a moving tribute from the young men present, each of whom placed a flower on Bro. Minehart’s grave.

Pennsylvania DeMolay has endowed the care of the grave for future generations, ensuring that a floral bouquet will be placed on the site every Jan. 17, marking the day that Pennsylvania DeMolay was founded by the chartering of Templar Chapter, Pittsburgh, in 1923.

Today’s DeMolays are proud of the heritage

Bro. Matthew S. Maple leads the sunset memorial service in honor of “Uncle Ralph” they have inherited and continue to work to honor those who have built the Order in former years, one small act at a time.

Bro. Richard Vaux was R.W. Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania from 1868-1869.

He laid the cornerstone of the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia using the same gavel Bro. George Washington used during the Masonic cornerstone ceremony for the U.S. Capitol building.

2 J. Simpson Africa was R.W. Grand Master from 1891-1892.

3 Clifford P. MacCalla was R.W. Grand Master from 1889-1890.

1

Planting Seeds to Grow Masonic Youth With the challenging winter season behind us, thoughts turn to the many projects that the spring season brings, including the annual planting of those home gardens that produce the vegetables that are enjoyed during the summer and fall. It’s also a great time to start planting the seeds that will be rewarded by the growth of new DeMolay chapters, Job’s Daughters bethels and Rainbow assemblies – and you don’t need to be a botanist or farmer to cultivate these organizations.

The Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation has developed a “New Masonic Youth Group Start-Up Guide” that is designed to present a logical, proven, step-by-step process that will result in the formation of a successful new youth group. This four-page booklet outlines the five crucial components of a successful Masonic youth group program: adult leaders, administration, programs, membership and state-wide events.

These pamphlets were provided to the District Deputy Grand Masters in February and are available at www.pmyf.org under the Programs/Publications tab.

This pamphlet provides general information that is applicable to all of the youth groups, but each organization has its own culture and regulations. For specific information on starting a particular Masonic youth group in your community, please contact the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation at 800-266-8424 or by emailing pmyf@pagrandlodge.org.

MASONIC VILL AGES 25

May 2014

Masonic Villages Growing to Meet Needs Masonic values have been woven into every decision made at the Masonic Villages for more than 140 years. Because of your role in Freemasonry, five communities, almost 2,800 residents and over 2,100 employees are currently impacted by YOU! The organization provides about $27 million in care each year for people who cannot afford it.

Masonic Villages constantly strives to expand its vision, enhance its services and build on its strong foundation, so every Mason and his family members may access its highquality resources and services. Keep reading to learn how Masonic Villages is growing to meet the needs of those 60+.

Masonic Village at Dallas

Located in the Endless Mountain Region of Northeastern Pennsylvania, Masonic Village at Dallas allows people to lay aside

the responsibilities of home maintenance and surround themselves with nature.

“We chose this area because we like the countryside, farmlands, lakes and mountains,” Al Exter said. “The residents make good friends, and we are close to our families. We absolutely love living in our villa and making new friends.”

Select retirement apartments and villas are currently available in Dallas. A limitedtime villa incentive program offers new residents the option to customize their villa with upgraded features at no additional cost, or to receive a $20,000 marketing allowance in lieu of these features. In addition, $10,000 off the entrance fee is now being offered for specific villas.

Neighboring Misericordia University and Wilkes-Barre offer local recreational opportunities. There’s always a new special to try at the on-campus Irem Clubhouse Restaurant and Pub. This winter, Irem Clubhouse introduced Clam Nights on the weekends, live jazz, and indoor golfing and bean bag toss tournaments to provide “summer” fun.

Call 866-851-4243 to schedule a visit or attend an open house: May 15 Lunch & Learn June 18 Summer Open House Aug. 6 Find & Dine

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown

As the largest campus, Masonic Village at Elizabethtown offers 1,400 acres of amenities including a farm market with orchards, wellness center, recreational hubs, more than three dozen clubs and an adjacent Amtrak railroad station for convenient transportation.

The award-winning renovations to the Masonic Health Care Center have been transforming residents’ neighborhoods (units) from institutional models into household

26 MASONIC VILL AGES designs and enhancing residents’ well-being.

New country kitchens have added fresh aromas, choices and a social dining environment that has helped to decrease the use of dietary supplements. Residents’ suites have been enhanced with fresh décor, a new call bell system, added privacy and European bathrooms.

Common spaces include larger living rooms, new furniture and décor and a fireplace.

As part of this renovation, Masonic Village formed a transitional care unit for people who need rehabilitation or a level of skilled nursing and other supportive care prior to returning home from a hospitalization. Consolidating these services onto one unit with a team of highly trained professionals allows Masonic Village to provide more specialized care.

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown offers many styles of retirement living cottages, apartments and suites in price ranges to fit a wide variety of needs. In February, Masonic Village finished building 100 new retirement living cottages between the Veterans Grove and Formal Gardens. People had so much interest in these new homes that the construction took less than three years.

Sheldon Kaplan and his wife, Pat, moved into one of these spacious cottages, and within a few months, he joined the Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown.

“To me, this is a resort. It’s a cruise ship in a corn field!” Bro. Kaplan said. “They have all of the amenities here that you could ask for, and it’s a wonderful place – a relaxing place – to live. We have plenty of room; we have privacy. We have whatever we need.”

In January, the Masonic Outreach program, which connects people throughout the United States with services to address their needs, launched the 2014 Outreach Series. These free educational seminars help people to explore new options and services to enhance their well-being. Call 800-462-7664 or visit www.MasonicOutreach.org to learn more about the 2014 Outreach Series.

Call 800-676-6452 to schedule a visit or attend the retirement living open house: June 4 Annual Open House

Pennsylvania Freemason

Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill

Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill is small enough that neighbors form close bonds, but large enough to offer great amenities like a bowling alley, wellness center with fitness programming, computer center, library, gift shop, clubs and more.

By 2015, more people will live in this growing community. In April, a construction project began to add 60 new apartments in onebedroom, one-bedroom/den and two-bedroom layouts and to improve the building’s façade.

The new apartments will have at least one and a half bathrooms and premium features like a walk-in closet, individual washer and dryer, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a balcony or patio. These apartments attach to the current building, providing convenient indoor access to the campus’ amenities.

The construction will include adding parking and a new campus entrance that leads to the retirement living addition and enhances accessibility to the community.

In addition, as new residents move into the existing retirement living apartments, Masonic Village is updating them with new features. All of these improvements will open Masonic Village’s doors to more Masons in the Philadelphia region.

“The best thing [my husband] did was join the Masons for me because I never thought he’d go first,” Marge Johnson said. Her husband, Kenneth, belonged to Brownstone Lodge No. 666, Hershey. “I love the fact that when my money runs out, I’ll still be able to stay here and have the same care. … I just

feel secure. It’s a great thing. … There was just no other choice. This is the best thing I could have done.”

Call 610-828-5760 to schedule a visit or attend an open house: May 14 Evening Event with Elvis June 17 Backyard Barbecue July 9 Lunch & Learn Aug. 7 Lunch & Learn

Masonic Village at Sewickley

The construction and renovation of the 110,000 square foot Sturgeon Health Care Center is revolutionizing care in Sewickley.

The center’s eight neighborhoods (for 128 residents in individual rooms) were largely completed in 2013. Like the renovations in Elizabethtown, this transformation focused on providing a homelike environment with a spacious dining area and family room in each neighborhood. The Redwood Court and Dogwood Court neighborhoods are designed to serve residents with dementia, expanding this service from providing care for 20 people to accommodating 32 residents.

The renovation’s last phase, expanding and transforming the therapy and recreational space, should be completed in July.

On the other side of campus, a standalone villa offers a unique retirement living option.

This brick home rests adjacent to the main campus with woodlands in the backyard. With a master suite on the first floor, a fireplace in the living room and a covered deck, the villa offers all of the convenience of single-story living. The real treasures lay in the finished basement and the second story. With four

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bedrooms and two and a half baths, this villa conjures up visions of friends and family spending quality time together.

Throughout the campus, retirement living residents living in villas and apartments benefit from a carefree lifestyle that provides free time to explore the community’s amenities, build close friendships and take advantage of everything Pittsburgh has to offer just 10 miles away. In addition, residents gain peace of mind with the Lifecare option, which guarantees their care no matter what the future holds.

Judi Hindes describes her decision to move to Masonic Village at Sewickley as “the best singular decision I’ve ever made in my life.”

“My advice for anyone even thinking about moving into a setting such as this is, don’t wait! … Often people say to me, ‘I’m not quite ready to move into a retirement village.’ My response to that is, ‘Really? What are you not ready for? To be spoiled? Because that’s what we are; we are spoiled!’” she added with a chuckle.

Call 412-749-6862 to schedule a visit or attend a retirement living open house: May 22 Ice Cream Social June 25 Lunch & Learn July 24 Hidden Treasures of Pittsburgh Aug. 20 Ice Cream Social

Masonic Villages’ Admissions Policy

Masonic Village at Warminster

Masonic Village at Warminster provides a nursing and personal care setting where residents, staff, volunteers and family members become one family and enjoy fun events and meaningful moments. This community takes person-centered care to the next level. Staff get to know residents, so they can perfectly tailor care and services to each individual.

Maintaining strong relationships with residents’ family members is also extremely important.

Bro. Bill Johnston, Tacony Lodge No. 600, Philadelphia, is a familiar face at Masonic Village at Warminster, where his wife lives.

“I really, really, really feel quite comfortable with my wife being here and knowing that she’s getting loving care. I personally like the attitude of the administration, nurses and aides. They all are wonderful. They keep her busy all day. … I would recommend Masonic Village to anyone because of the loving care my wife has received.”

Call 215-672-2500, ext. 116, to schedule a visit.

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

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

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

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 email MVWadmissions@masonicvillages.org.

850 Norristown Road • Warminster, PA 18974

28 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

Bro. Lynn Row, Bro. Carl Flohr and pilot/friend Donald Mower following their March flight

Bro. Carl Flohr: a Mason on a Mission One thing you can learn from the experiences of this self-proclaimed “farm boy” is that the sky’s the limit.

But those who know Bro. Carl Flohr will tell you he embodies many virtues we all admire: Humility. Benevolence. Perseverence.

Shrewdness. Honesty. Dedication. A man any of us would be proud to call “Brother.”

Educated initially in a four-room schoolhouse, Bro. Flohr graduated from high school and began a career in concrete sales. Within a few years, he started his own construction and land development company, Carl R. Flohr, Inc. He later diversified his business into swimming pool and hot tub installation, service and maintenance (Flohr Pools); and real estate (Flohr Realty). During his career, he has received the Pennsylvania Builder of the Year Award, an award as the Outstanding National Representative in the U.S.A. by the Home Builders Association, and an Outstanding Service Award by the National Swimming Pool Association.

He has used his extensive experience in these industries during his service on the Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Temples, Halls and Lodge Rooms (including time as chairman), as well as on the Masonic Villages’ Building and Grounds Subcommittee since the 1980s (of which he served as chairman during the 1990s).

Bro. Flohr was made a Mason in 1950 and served as Worshipful Master of George

Washington Lodge No. 143, Chambersburg, in 1960. He received the Chapel of Four Chaplains’ Humanitarian Award on April 27, 1997, and the Pennsylvania Franklin Medal from R.W. Grand Master Robert L. Dluge, Jr., during a datestone ceremony for the Freemasons Cultural Center at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown on Autumn Day, Sept. 23, 2000. That same day, he and his wife, Arlene, were recognized and honored

by Grand Master Dluge during the unveiling of a sign for the therapy pool in the Masonic Health Care Center at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. The pool was named the Flohr Therapy Pool in recognition of Bro. Flohr’s dedication and service as a member of the Committee on Masonic Homes from 1991 through 1999. Bro. Flohr offered the services of his firm to contribute all of the pumps, piping and design for the pool, and he, himself, installed much of the piping.

In addition to his blue lodge activities, Bro. Flohr has actively served in the Scottish Rite, having been coroneted an Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, A.A.S.R., 33°, in 1981. He also served in various leadership roles within the York Rite.

Life-long residents of the Chambersburg area, Bro. Flohr and Arlene both have served the family of Freemasonry with selfless devotion. Arlene is a Past Grand Matron, Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, the Order of the Eastern Star.

The couple have three sons and a daughter, nine grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren. Three of their children are now running the businesses Bro. Flohr started, and one son shares his love for flying as a commercial pilot. “When I think about all the economic downturns I’ve experienced in my life, I really had to keep on my toes. But the businesses are still operating. Looking back, I believe the diversification in different aspects of business helped them to survive. It’s the same thing for my kids,” Bro. Flohr said.

The Flohrs are also generous benefactors

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May 2014

of the Masonic Villages and Masonic Charities.

In June 2004, when the Masonic Charities launched its first $50 million capital and endowment campaign, Bro. Flohr served on the capital campaign steering committee.

“As Masons, we’re supposed to help other people who can’t necessarily help themselves,” he said with great humility. “Our Masonic Charities have benefitted many, many of our members and their widows across the state who have been able to live in the environments we’ve created at the Masonic Villages ... we hopefully just made life a little easier for them during their time of need.”

He has seen this benevolence in action, having been intricately involved in the implementation of dozens of projects over the years. “I appreciate working with other people in the planning and the renovation of buildings. I have done work like that throughout my lifetime, and I’ve enjoyed very much working with Joe (Murphy, CEO), the board and the Grand Lodge officers over the years,” he said. “We’ve done a lot of work during that timeframe, and I’ve felt it was beneficial to me, too. It gives me the opportunity to have a first-hand examination of the design, bidding and construction of many different projects.”

Some of the highlights of his volunteerism over the years have included integrating the Masonic and Eastern Star homes into one Mission of Love, as well as the purchase and continued growth of the Masonic Village at Sewickley campus. “I think that project gave the opportunity for folks in the Pittsburgh area to really get a first-hand application of Masonic charity,” he said.

“I’ve had a tremendous experience with the villages, and that’s why I continue to try to be active. I still keep up with the projects going on now and the continuation of all

Bro. Flohr, center, reviews plans for the Masonic Health Care Center construction in 1992 with Masonic Village and Warfel Construction staff. we have started over the years. The staff I’ve worked with have been a real pleasure ... they make it worthwhile, too.”

Bro. Flohr became interested in flying when he served as President of the Pennsylvania Homebuilders Association in 1975. He purchased a 1974 Piper aircraft and got his pilot’s license to get around to various local associations throughout the state without

interfering with his other businesses. “I could fly somewhere for a meeting in the evening and jump in the plane and come home and be to work the next morning,” he recalls. Some years, he flew upwards of 400 hours. He has recently retired his pilot’s license, and that same plane is now for sale. “We’ll drive or fly commercial,” he said, when he and Arlene wish to travel.

Bro. Flohr, center, participates in the 1996 ground breaking ceremony for retirement living cottages with then-Grand Master Edward O. Weisser, Masonic Village board members and staff.

30 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

In his free time, he enjoys traveling and photography, a passion he embraced back in high school. He is also very interested in genealogy, having published “William H. Flohr Family History” in 1998.

In addition to giving his expertise and his benevolence to benefit the Masonic Villages, Bro. Flohr has given countless hours of his time. And not just to planning projects or building with his hands; he’s also willing to do whatever he can to bring the Mission of Love to life.

On March 24, he did just that for Bro. Lynn Row, Eureka-West Shore Lodge No. 302, Mechanicsburg, a resident of Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Masonic Village Hospice staff desired to get Bro. Row, a career pilot, up in the air one last time. They sent out a

request for a pilot willing to help, and word got to Bro. Flohr.

Not long ago, Bro. Flohr would have taken Bro. Row himself, but having retired his license, he reached out to long-time friend Donald Mower.

“I’m glad we could make the arrangements,” Bro. Flohr said. He had been Mr. Mower’s scoutmaster many years ago, and the two attend the same church. Mr. Mower was more than willing to help, flying Bro. Flohr with him from Chambersburg to the Maytown airport to give Bro. Row a 30-minute ride.

They flew over Masonic Village, and Bro. Row could pick out his apartment where his wife, Bea, was waiting for him.

Bro. Row has logged more than 20,000 hours of flight time and has flown all across

the United States, to the Caribbean and to Cuba. He worked for DuPont, Hershey Foods and Penn State University, among others. His passengers have included President Gerald Ford and his wife, Betty; Joe Paterno; and several U.S. Senators.

Bro. Row served in the U.S. Army in Italy during World War II, and when he returned home, he attended a GI Flight Program. He retired from flying in 1986. After living in Florida, he moved to Masonic Village in June 2013. “For me, flying was my whole life,” he said.

From the farm to the construction site, and from the board room into the air, Bro. Carl Flohr spreads our Masonic values of brotherly love, charity and truth.

Phillips Named Executive Director at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Cindy Phillips, Ph.D., has been appointed executive director of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. She succeeds Vicki Gillmore, RN, NHA, Ph.D., who retired May 1 after 16 years of service.

Ms. Phillips is responsible for planning, directing and coordinating all facets of campus operations.

Prior to joining Masonic Village’s leadership team, Ms. Phillips was an executive coach and management consultant with Leadership 4 Change Consulting, serving all industries including health care. Additionally, she has more than 17 years of direct leadership experience in the transportation, telecommunications and financial services industries.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from Towson University, a master’s degree in business from St. Joseph’s University and a doctorate at the Fielding Graduate Institute, where her research interests included leadership development and organizational change.

Fresh Fruits & Vegetables IN SEASON

Local Asparagus, Southern Strawberries, Pansies, Primrose, Perennials, Crisp and Juicy Home-Grown Apples, Spinach, Broccoli, Salad Greens, Sugar Peas

Local Tomatoes starting Early May Local Strawberries starting Mid-May Online at MVFarmMarket.com

Follow us on Facebook to see what is in season.

Hours: Mon. - Sat., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. • 717-361-4520 MVfarmmarket.com • 310 Eden View Road, Elizabethtown Located on the grounds of the Masonic Village • We accept FNMP checks

MasonicVillage FARM MARKET

MASONIC VILL AGES 31

May 2014 Qty. Capital Need MASONIC VILLAGE AT ELIZABETHTOWN 2 Temporal Thermometers 1 Bariatric Shower Chair 10 Specialty Mattresses 23 Wheelchairs - Specialty 1 Washer/Dryer Set 15 Wheelchairs - Specialty w/customized 5 Bariatric Mattresses 1 Eva Pneumatic Platform Walker 3 Wheelchairs - Tilt & Space 4 Sleeper Chairs 5 Wheelchairs - Broda 2 Bariatric Ceiling Lifts 2 Beds - Pivot 2 Lifts - Overhead 2 NPWT Machines (wound care) 4 Wheelchair Glider Swing Bariatric Equipment 1 Treadmill for Rehab Dept.

1 Wheelchair Shuttle Cart 1 Hearing Aid Loop 1 Dental Digital Imaging 1 Call Bell System (replacement) 1 InspectRX CHILDRENS’ HOME NEEDS 5 Laptops 1 Door (Bedroom) Shutters Juniata River Float Trip Hershey Park Trip Wildwood NJ Shore Trip 1 Patio BLEILER COTTAGE NEEDS 40 Curtains 1 Outdoor Carpet 1 Refrigerator MASONIC VILLAGE AT LAFAYETTE HILL 28 Televisions Harvest Ball Event Drama Lessons/Activities for Residents Baltimore Aquarium w/Lunch and Transportation Broadway Shows w/Transportation Outing 1 NuStep Machine MASONIC VILLAGE AT SEWICKLEY 1 Hand Rail Tilt and Roll Scale 1 ARJO Sit to Stand Lift 1 4 Channel E Stimulation (electric) 1 ARJO Maxi Lift Occupancy Sensors for Apartment Hallway MASONIC VILLAGE AT DALLAS 2 Handicap Accessible Picnic Tables 1 Gazebo 1 Rooftop Patio MASONIC VILLAGE AT WARMINSTER 10 Wood Working Kits 1 Electric Lift Recliner 1 Pergola with Awning 1 Gazebo

Cost Per Item $425 $800 $1,000 $1,000 $1,200 $1,500 $1,600 $1,800 $2,000 $2,000 $2,100 $2,500 $3,700 $4,667 $6,000 $6,000 $10,000 $10,200 $14,000 $18,000 $25,000 $146,300 $186,495

MASONIC VILLAGES’

2014

WISH LIST ITEMS OFFICE OF GIFT PLANNING

800-599-6454

Thank you to the following individuals who have provided for the following items since the last issue: Bleiler Caring Cottage: Bro. Ken and Elaine Bleiler: Gazebo

$1,550 $4,100 $4,400 $7,400 $20,000

Masonic Children’s Home: Bro. Benjamin and Kathleen Griscom:

File Cabinet, 2 Shampooers Bro. Herbert Marder: Trumpet Bro. Ronald McKnight: Various Items Mary Ellen and Bro. James Tarman: Various Items Williamson Corinthian Lodge No. 368: Music Program Masonic Village at Elizabethtown: Perseverance Lodge No. 21: Monitors and Camera

Equipment for John S. Sell Memorial Chapel Wendy and H. Lawrence Culp, Jr.: 2 Rock and Go Chairs,

Vital Sign Machine, Sleeper Chair, 8 Electric Recliners,

Healing Touch and Massages Old Bellaire Chapter No. 375, O.E.S.:

2 Wheelchair Cushions - Specialty Bro. Richard Holt: Electric Lift Recliner Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill: Concordia Lodge No. 67: 10 T.V.s Joyce Michelfelder: T.V. Masonic Village at Sewickley: Bro. David P. Rihl: Various Items for Pastoral Care Masonic Village at Warminster: Concordia Lodge No. 67: 2 Blood Pressure Monitors, Fireplace Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation: Perseverance Lodge No. 21: Furniture in Atrium

$900 $10,532 $14,940

There is an all-inclusive wish list posted on the Masonic Charities website at www.MasonicCharitiesPA.org, or feel free to contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454.

$1,000 $1,200 $6,000 $8,000

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

$500 $848 $1,000 $1,500 $2,250 $5,950 $7,000 $50 $500 $1,300 $400 $2,500 $3,000 $3,150 $3,700 $6,000

Gift Planning that Reflects Your Loves, Values and Priorities is a Lifelong Process.

Benefits

• Experience peace of mind and joy in knowing that your plans continue to reflect your loves, values and priorities.

• Estimate the impact your plan will have upon lives and organizations.

• Assure that your plan reflects current laws and remains tax-efficient.

• Understand how charitable plans will be acknowledged or, optionally, establish how plans are to be kept anonymous.

www.MasonicCharitiesPa.org For professional guidance with planning charitable gifts from your estate, contact: Alvin H. Blitz, Esq.

Chief Gift Planning Officer of the R.W. Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania serving Pennsylvania and all areas of the country 1-800-599-6454 or 717-367-1121, ext. 33312 ABlitz@masonicvillages.org

Jane W. Binley

Director of Gift Planning serving the western Pennsylvania region 412-741-1400, ext. 3011 JBinley@masonicvillages.org

David R. Whitenack, CFP® CAP®

Director of Gift Planning serving the central Pennsylvania region 717-367-1121, ext. 33437 DWhitenack@masonicvillages.org

Joyce F. Michelfelder, CAP®

Director of Gift Planning serving the eastern Pennsylvania region 610-825-6100, ext. 1348 JMichelf@masonicvillages.org

Contact the gift planner in your area or complete and mail this form to: Office of Gift Planning, One Masonic Dr., Elizabethtown, PA 17022 Telephone 800-599-6454 or Email giving@masonicvillages.org  I/We have remembered the following Masonic Charity(ies) in my/our estate plan:_______________________________________________  Please send me a copy of the workbook: Planning for a Future that Reflects Your Values, Loves and Priorities.  Please send me information on your Franklin Legacy Society that recognizes individuals who have included a Masonic Charity in his/her Will or living trust.

Name(s)__________________________________________________________ Address__________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Phone___________________________________________________________ Email___________________________________________________________

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