Freemason - November 2012

The Pennsylvania

NOVEMBER 2012 • Volume LIX No. 4

Honoring Our Veterans Massing of the Colors page 29

Learn about Our Masonic Charities at www.MasonicCharitiesPa.org! More on page 9 ...

Inside this Issue...

THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON® VOL. LIX, NOVEMBER 2012, NO. 4

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

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

3 Grand Lodge

• Grand Master’s Message • Grand Lodge Awards • December Quarterly Communication • Help for Our Heroes • Explore Alaska with the Grand Master

9 Freemason

• A PA Mason at Heart

10 Lodge and District

• Random Acts of Kindness & Community Service • Congratulations to ... • PA-Ohio Brotherhood Unity Night • Lodge & District Events

20 Library & Museum

• Masonic Book Review • Music Exhibit in Tune • Masonic Temple Maintenance Update • New Byers’ Choice: Bro. Theodore Roosevelt

22 PA Masonic Youth Foundation

• Growing PA Rainbow - Together • Grand Master Leads Youth • DeMolay Honors Supporters • Miss Job’s Daughters Pageant • JDU Leadership Week • Goals Selected & Achievements Earned

26 Masonic Villages

• Eliminate Real Estate Blunders • Our Masonic Families Need Your Support • Honoring Our Veterans • Autumn Day 2012 • 2012 Wish List Items

(Publication No. USPS 426-140) November 2012 Issue of The Pennsylvania Freemason ® Published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Articles and photographs to be considered for publication should be sent with local Masonic authority to the address above, to the attention of The Pennsylvania Freemason ® or emailed to pafreemason@ masonicvillagespa.org. Except by special arrangement, all articles, photographs and artwork become the property of the Grand Lodge.

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

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

We appreciate the many submissions we receive for consideration. We apologize, but due to space constraints we are not able to publish every submission we receive.

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP (Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United States Code) November 1, 2012, The Pennsylvania Freemason ®, published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Publishers: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Editor: Jay W. Smith. Owner: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Known bondholders: none. No advertising handled. Free distribution averages 134,000 each quarter.

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

Jay W. Smith, Editor Mailing address changes

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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@ masonicvillagespa.org. An electronic version of the magazine is also available online at www.pagrandlodge.org.

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

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

Dear Brethren:

The lodges are back at work after the summer break. Every lodge should have had an open house and participated in a One Day Masonic Journey. I encourage each blue lodge to obtain the Grand Master’s Award for 2012. Also, each lodge should be encouraging and helping our newly-made Masons to achieve the Master Builders Award as described on page 4 of this issue.

I want to thank the brethren who have contributed to our Help for our Heroes program after their lodge meetings. For those brethren who cannot attend lodge regularly and wish to contribute to this worthwhile program, you may do so by sending a check to your lodge secretary designated for the Help for our Heroes.

In November, the Massing of the Colors will again be held at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Please take the time to visit this beautiful tribute to our veterans.

I hope everyone who attended Autumn Day had a great time. I know I did! It was a great day for me to greet so many Masons and their families; please forgive me if I did not remember everybody’s name. I would like to thank Bro. Joseph Murphy, Chief Executive Officer of the Masonic Villages, Beverly Sweigart, Chief Administration Officer, and their staff for all their hard work in organizing this special event. There is no better way to show off our Masonic Village and Pennsylvania Freemasonry.

As we approach the holiday season, let’s not forget our brethren and their widows who reside in one of our Masonic Villages or in a private nursing home. Please visit or send them a card during this special time. As Masons, this is not only our duty, but our privilege.

As we move forward, I ask every new Worshipful Master for 2013 to provide the best programs possible for the brethren of your lodge. Locally and collectively, Freemasonry will benefit from your efforts and together, we will become Master Builders – Building for Our Future.

I want to remind everyone that next year, we will be celebrating the 100th Anniversary of our Masonic Children’s Home. Let’s make this a special time for the children who live there. Also, I invite you to plan to explore Alaska with Nancy and me next summer (see. p. 8 for details).

In closing, Nancy and I wish each of you a Happy Holiday and a Happy and Healthy New Year!

Sincerely and Fraternally,

Jay W. Smith Right Worshipful Grand Master

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Grand Master’s, Master Builders & Membership Awards R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith encourages individual blue lodges to strive to attain the Grand Master’s Award. The criteria are listed below.

In addition, he is continuing the first-line signer necktie award, as well as additional awards based on the number of petitions submitted for first-line signers.

Finally, he has established a Master Builders Award, an incentive for newly raised Master Masons to take an active role in their lodges.

If you require additional information or have any questions regarding any of these programs, please contact your District Deputy Grand Master for assistance.

GRAND MASTER’S AWARD PROGRAM

The Grand Master’s Award will be presented to any lodge attaining a point value of 200 or more utilizing the below listed criteria and point values: 10% o r greater membership increase .......................................................... 20 or a 5%-9% membership increase............................................................... 10 Year e nd with no suspensions ..................................................................... 20 or year end with <2% suspensions.............................................................. 10 Active use of the Mentor Program.............................................................. 20 Help for our Heroes donations >$100/year................................................ 10 Lodge adopts a resident at a Masonic Village or other nursing community:..................................................................................... 10 Community Service Project approved by the D.D.G.M. (2 points/month, 10 max)............................................................................ 10 Lodge attendance at stated meetings increase over previous year............. 15 Lodge attendance at extra meetings increase over previous year .............. 15 Attendance at Secretary seminar.................................................................. 5 Attendance at Wardens seminar (5 for S.W. & 5 for J.W.) ........................ 10 Lodge conducts a fellowship event (picnic, banquet, ladies night, etc.)..... 10 Audit & trustee reports completed on time (based on D.D.G.M. deadline).................................................................... 10 Officers attendance at School of Instruction (min. of 5 officers once/month for 8 months)............................................. 10 Officers attendance at Regional School of Instruction (min. of 5 officers)....................................................................................... 10 Minimum of 10 lodge members attend a district-wide fellowship event.... 10 Minimum of 10 lodge members visit a lodge within the district (stated or extra meeting)............................................................................. 10 All chairs filled for upcoming year by October stated meeting of current year.............................................................................................. 10 Conduct a minimum of one fellowship event inviting widows free of charge............................................................................................... 10 Conduct a lodge blood drive or assist in a district-wide blood drive.......... 10 Lodge’s Representative attendance at each Quarterly Communication (5 pts/meeting)............................................................................................. 10 A minimum lodge donation of $250 to the Grand Lodge Library & Museum ..................................................................................... 15 Lodge conducts one CHIP event.................................................................. 5 INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP AWARDS First line signer on one petition.................................Grand Master’s Necktie First line signer of five petitions..............................................Masonic Jacket First line signer of 10 petitions........................... Gold Masonic Wrist Watch

MASTER BUILDERS AWARD PROGRAM A three-part program of education and fellowship for newly raised Master Masons: Part 1: Mentor Program – An internet-based learning program Part 2: Masonic History – An internet-based learning program Part 3: A personal adventure in Masonic fellowship and learning

To complete the Master Builders Program and attain the Grand Master’s Achievement Recognition Award, the newly made Master Mason must satisfactorily complete Parts 1 and 2 through the internet-based learning programs provided through the Grand Lodge and fulfill mandatory and voluntary requirements of Part 3 within one year of being raised.

Mandatory Requirements: 1. Attend a stated meeting of your home lodge.

2. Attend an extra meeting of your home lodge.

3. Attend at least one meeting of another lodge in your district.

4. Serve as greeter for one of your lodge’s stated meetings.

5. Attend an Official Visitation of the D.D.G.M. within your district.

6. Attend at least one of your lodge’s fellowship events.

7. Assist in a fundraising event held by your lodge (if applicable).

8. Completion of your blue lodge’s Mentor Program as required by the Grand

Lodge of Pennsylvania’s Education Committee.

9. Attend a youth group meeting within your district or region.

10. Assist the Secretary or other members in contacting members in danger

of being suspended to discuss with them what you believe to be the

benefits of their Masonic membership.

Fulfill at Least Three of the Voluntary Criteria: 1. Participate in a degree conferred by your lodge.

2. Be the first line signer on a petition for membership in your lodge.

3. Contact a brother who has not attended lodge in the last six months and

invite him to accompany you to the next stated meeting. (The brother

must accept and attend in order for this criterion to be completed.)

4. Assume responsibility for arranging a Masonic Education program for

your lodge. This may be done by you or by someone else by your invitation

with the Worshipful Master’s approval.

5. Attend a Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.

6. Attend either a stated meeting of The Pennsylvania Lodge of Research or

the Academy of Masonic Knowledge.

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November 2012

December Quarterly Communication The Members of the Grand Lodge are requested to attend: The Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania to be held at the Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square, 25 South Queen Street, Lancaster, Pa., on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2012, at 10 a.m.

In accordance with Article 5.01 of the “Ahiman Rezon,” there will be no election of Grand Officers and Committee on Masonic Homes this year.

However, action will be had upon the following proposed Amendments to the “Ahiman Rezon” so that the same as amended shall read as follows: Amendment No. 1 HONORARY AND LIFE MEMBERSHIPS Whereas, on Dec. 3, 1997, Grand Lodge adopted Amendments to the “Ahiman Rezon” for Honorary Membership and Life Membership classifications; and Whereas, the monies derived from these classifications were invested in the permanent fund of the lodge, the income of which could only be used for the general operations of the lodge; and Whereas, it has been determined that such income from the principal was insufficient to cover the members’ lodge dues, and the lodges were burdened with subsidizing these dues.

Now, therefore, be it resolved that Article 17.04 (Honorary Membership) and Article 17.04A (Life Membership) are hereby eliminated and are to be deleted in their entirety.

Be it further resolved that dues remain unchanged at $25.50 for those who held Life Membership as of Dec. 27, 2011.

Amendment No. 2 GRAND LODGE DUES Whereas, item 6 under Article 10.01 provides for dues and fees of subordinate lodges; and Whereas, Life Membership has been eliminated and their dues would be fixed at $25.50.

Now, therefore, be it resolved that Article 10.01, Item 6, of the “Ahiman Rezon” be amended by inserting the dues for Life Members as of Dec. 27, 2011, so that Item 6 of Article 10.01 shall read as follows: “6. Dues and Fees of Subordinate Lodge, viz: Grand Lodge dues annually for each Member who was a life Member on Dec. 7, 1955 ....................................................... $2.00 Grand Lodge dues annually for each Member who was a life Member on Dec. 27, 2011...................................................... $25.50 Grand Lodge dues annually for all other Members ............... $25.50 The subordinate lodge shall be relieved from payment of any Grand Lodge dues for any member whose lodge dues are remitted or excused because (i) such member is unable to pay his lodge dues and the lodge resolves to remit dues on his behalf, (ii) such member has been a Mason in good standing for fifty (50) or more years, or (iii) such member has satisfied the requirements of the Senior Recruitment Program during 2010 and 2011. In each event, the Secretary of the lodge shall certify to the Grand Secretary the reason why such member’s dues have been remitted or excused.”

Be it further resolved that all other items under Article 10.01 remain unchanged.

Amendment No. 3 ELECTION OF THE GRAND OFFICERS AND THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MASONIC VILLAGES OF THE GRAND LODGE OF PENNSYLVANIA 5.01.

The Grand Officers and the Directors of the Masonic Villages of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania shall serve for two-year terms. The initial election to an office shall be by ballot at the Quarterly Communication next preceding St. John the Evangelist’s Day. A reaffirmation ballot shall be held at the succeeding December Quarterly Communication which is prior to the second year of an officer’s term; however, a voice vote as opposed to written or printed ballot may be used to reaffirm such election.

Amendment No. 4 THE MASONIC VILLAGES OF THE GRAND LODGE OF PENNSYLVANIA 13.32. The Masonic Villages of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania (formerly known as The Masonic Home of Pennsylvania) was incorporated in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on May 6, 1871. From its formation until Jan. 1, 2004, The Masonic Home of Pennsylvania operated a retirement living facility and orphanage for Pennsylvania Masons and their families unaffiliated with the Grand Lodge. On Jan. 1, 2004, the Grand Lodge acquired the assets, liabilities and operations of The Masonic Home of Pennsylvania, and assumed control of the corporation. At the December 2011 and June 2012 Quarterly Communications of the Grand Lodge, the Grand Lodge resolved that (x) all the assets used or held for use in the operation of its unincorporated charitable unit known as the Masonic Villages, and (y) all the liabilities of Grand Lodge and the Masonic Villages in connection with the operation of the Masonic Villages be transferred to The Masonic Home of Pennsylvania, effective Jan. 1, 2013, and that all the business and activities of the Masonic Villages be thereafter conducted by and through The Masonic Home of Pennsylvania, provided that (i) the Grand Lodge is and shall be the sole member of the corporation, and (ii) the Board of Directors of The Masonic Home of Pennsylvania (the “Board”) shall consist of the Grand Officers ex officio together with seven members elected by the Grand Lodge in accordance with the terms and subject to conditions of Article 5.01 of the “Ahiman Rezon.” The name of the corporation was thereafter changed to The Masonic Villages of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.

13.33. The Masonic Villages of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as being a tax-exempt charitable organization as defined in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

13.34. The Board shall be elected by the Grand Lodge in accordance with the terms and subject to the conditions of Section 5.01 of the “Ahiman Rezon” and shall manage the corporation on the terms and subject to the conditions of the corporation’s bylaws, as the same may be amended in accordance therewith from time to time. The Board shall report its proceedings to the Grand Lodge whenever required by the Grand Master.

Mark A. Haines R.W. Grand Secretary

6 GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason

HELP FOR OUR HEROES GREAT ADVENTURE HEARTS APART 6 FLAGS TRIP On Aug. 11, the Warfighter and Family Readiness Center hosted a “Hearts Apart” trip to Six Flags Great Adventure for 110 family members of deployed military personnel from the Joint Base (McGuire-Ft. DixLakehurst). The trip, which cost $7,000, was funded 100 percent by Pennsylvania (PA) Masons. Each family member received a two-park ticket, one for the theme park and another for the Wild Safari. The trip included transportation to the park at 10 a.m., via Academy buses, and options to return to the base every hour, on the hour,

from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. Once in the park, the families were able to go their own way and enjoy the rides and games. PA Masons also paid for the “all-you-can-eat” catered lunch, including cheeseburgers, hot dogs, pasta salad, vegetarian baked beans, tossed salad, cookies, brownies and cold beverages.

Each family also received a photograph voucher to capture the memory.

A few families said that they had wanted to go to the park since they arrived to the base but could never afford the trip, and they were very grateful for the opportunity.

“It feels very good to know that members of the community will reach into their own pockets for family members who are left behind during a deployment,” said TSgt Justin Ashjian, Family Readiness NCO, Warfighter and Family Readiness Center.

“As a father, a military member and a spouse to a military member, I can say the hardest part of the military is being a spouse who is left at home with the kids for long periods of time. The community has done a great job in taking care of our military members before, during and after deployments, and it is nice to know that the families of those

members are also being thought about.”

Justin coordinates the Help for Our Heroes efforts between the Grand Lodge and the Joint Base. He forwarded the following emails he received from family members after the trip to Col. and Bro. Harris Brooks, Brotherhood Lodge No. 126, Philadelphia: “ALL POSITIVE!!!!!!!!!!!! There was not one thing that you guys could have done to make this event go any smoother. It was great fun, food and friends :). It was a nice comfy bus ride and great distraction from missing that special deployed one. Thanks for all you do for the families.” - D’Metria “My family enjoyed the trip, and we are very grateful for the generosity. This was the first time my children went to Great Adventure. ... Once again, thank you so much for the tickets; without them, our family would not have been able to go otherwise (because of the expense).” - Alison “It was a great day! Thanks to you, Mary and the Pennsylvania Masons!“ - Jeananne “I want to thank you for setting everything up and the Masons for funding the trip. ... The girls and I really enjoyed it, and it was nice seeing smiles on their faces

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November 2012

was to take the girls; I would not have been able to afford an outing as nice as that. I attached a picture of the girls on the ferris wheel; they thought it was so cool to be so high up over the trees! Thank you tons and tons!” - Stacy

with daddy gone. Thanks again.” - Kimberly “The kids & I thoroughly enjoyed it. The fact that someone recognizes the hardships that are placed on the families that are waiting for their loved ones to return is truly priceless. … Thanks again for all that you do. It is honestly appreciated.” - Stew “I would like to say THANK YOU as my girls and I had a blast! I didn’t think I could handle my 4 and 2 1/2 year olds by myself, but I did it (my body is paying for it now!) … I really want to say how nice it

FAMILY FUN FEST On Aug. 27, The Joint Base Exceptional Family Member Program hosted a Fun Fest sponsored by the Air Force Aid Society for military families with special needs. The event offered opportunities for families to learn more about resources available to assist them through local and community agencies.

Activities included face painting; balloon sculptures made by our own “Chuckles the Clown,” also known as Bro. Chuck Lord, Brotherhood Lodge No. 126, Philadelphia, representing “Help for Our Heroes”; crafts; a musical instrument demonstration; a bouncy house; and free backpacks for children donated by the Boys and Girls Club.

BABY SHOWERS The next military baby shower held jointly with the March of Dimes will take place at the McGuire-Ft. Dix-Lakehurst military base on Nov. 3.

VETERANS COURTS Thank you for your tremendous support of the veterans court project! We are still looking for volunteers in the Wilkes-Barre

and Scranton areas, so please continue to contact Bro. Tom Long at 215-520-8826.

WE NEED YOUR HELP! Within the next few months, approximately 20,000 PA Army National Guard personnel will redeploy to Afghanistan.

The PA National Guard Family Support staff has asked PA Masons to once again support both the deployed soldiers and their families. Bro. Brooks met at the Grand Lodge with several National Guard leaders in August to discuss their requests, and a follow-up planning meeting is scheduled with Bro. Brooks and R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith on Nov. 13.

Two major needs include the support of pregnant moms left behind after the deployment of their spouses and assistance for families with household crises. Once again, the Grand Lodge will partner with the March of Dimes in Pennsylvania, as we do in New Jersey, to host baby showers. In addition to valuable education, the parentsto-be will receive financial assistance and necessities for caring for their newborn.

Masonic District 2 will oversee the household emergency program.

“Brethren, please continue to give generously to support our men and women protecting our freedoms overseas, as well as their families here at home,” said R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith. “The amount of support we are able to provide to our PA Stryker Brigade is directly proportionate to the funds we raise among our members to contribute to their needs.”

8 GR AND LODGE

YES, I would like to Explore Alaska with the Grand Master.

Name______________________________________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________________________ Phone #___________________________________________________________________ Email______________________________________________________________________ I have included a check for $_______________________________________________

Pennsylvania Freemason

*Fuel supplement has been suspended. Holland America Line reserves the right to re-instate the fuel supplement for all guests at up to $9 per person per day should the price of light sweet crude oil according to the NYMEX (New York Mercantile Exchange Index) increase above $70 per barrel. Please consult our website for current information. Fares are for the 14-Day CruiseTour. Featured fares are per person based on double occupancy, cruise only. Fares are in U.S. dollars and include non-commissionable fares. Taxes are additional and vary according to itinerary. Subject to availability. Offers are capacity controlled, and may be modifed or withdrawn without prior notice. Restrictions may apply. Please refer to the appropriate Holland America brochure for full terms and conditions.

Shipsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Registry: The Netherlands.

FREEMASON 9

November 2012

A Pennsylvania Mason at Heart During World War II, Bro. Paul Battenberg, Jordan-Martin Lodge No. 673, Allentown, wanted to serve his country in the U.S. Navy, but a childhood injury hindered his enlistment.

In retrospect, “I guess you could say I was lucky to be unlucky,” he said of the fateful deterrence.

“I might not have made it out of the service.”

And he wouldn’t have made it to the age of 102. Residing in San Marcos, Calif., Bro. Battenberg maintains a sense of humor about surpassing the century mark. “I live day to day,” he said. “I don’t buy green bananas.”

Bro. Battenberg was born on Sept. 8, 1910, in Canton, Ohio. His parents moved to Kansas City, Mo., when he was a child, and he later attended the University of Oklahoma. By the time he graduated college in 1933, his parents had moved to Allentown, Pa., and he followed them. Pennsylvania holds great significance in his life as the place where he met his wife, Helen, his three sons were born and he joined the Masonic fraternity.

Inspired by his father, who was a 32˚ Mason and a member of Knights Templar, Bro. Battenberg joined the Order of DeMolay at age 16. In 1937, he joined what is now Jordan-Martin Lodge No. 673 and served as Worshipful Master in 1945.

Despite moving out of Pennsylvania, he has kept his membership with his lodge. In 1987, he received his 50-year pin from R.W. Past Grand Master Carl W. Stenberg, Jr., and in 2008, Bro. Alvin Blitz, chief gift planning officer at Masonic Villages, presented him with his 70-year Masonic Service Emblem. Recently, Bro. Thomas E. Colgan, Inspector, 901st Masonic District of the Grand Lodge of California, presented him with his 75-year Diamond Jubilee Award.

“I come from a Masonic family,” he said, “so I try to live up to the ideals of the fraternity and be an example. I brought quite a few friends in when I was active.”

He also belongs to Jordan Royal Arch Chapter No. 203, Allentown, and Allen-Beauceant Commandery No. 20, Knights Templar.

While in the Keystone state, Bro. Battenberg worked for the Department of Highways and the city of Allentown. He also spent time working for an underground piping company during the war making materials for overseas airfields.

After moving back to Ohio in 1952, he worked as a construction engineer for the city of Akron until he retired in 1975.

He and Helen, who were married for 70 years before her passing in 2003, bought a motor coach in their retirement and traveled across the United States and Canada. After deciding they didn’t like humidity and preferred not to shovel snow, they moved to the San Diego area where they’d found “the best weather in the world.” Their travels also included international destinations such as Germany, Spain, Switzerland and England.

One city he’ll never forget is Philadelphia.

The Masonic Temple left an indelible impression upon Bro. Battenberg after he watched his nephew go through his degrees there. When he learned of the renovations taking place at the National Historic Landmark in 2008, he knew it was an effort he wanted to support financially. He also contributes to the Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania and the Masonic Charities Fund.

“I have real strong memories of Masonic life in Pennsylvania,” he said. “I want to help where I can.”

Bro. Battenberg spends his days “taking it easy.” He follows the San Diego Padres and Chargers on television and likes to golf when he is able. He looks forward to an annual gathering with Bro. Blitz and other Pennsylvania Masons who reside in California. Two of his sons have passed away, and one son lives nearby. He has four grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. He is proud of his role at family functions as photographer and videographer, although he took the day off for his 100th birthday, which included a big celebration with family from across the country.

Pennsylvania Freemasonry is fortunate to have a member who has dedicated three quarters of a century to upholding the values of the fraternity, and supports its continued growth. While he loves the weather in California, Pennsylvania will always have a special place in Bro. Battenberg’s heart.

Masonic Charities Has a New Online Home Please, visit us soon! We’re open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at www.MasonicCharitiesPa.org. This new, updated site has a vast array of information about our five Masonic Charities, various ways to give based on your charitable objectives, financial means and needs for tax deductions and guaranteed income.

We welcome you to attend our virtual housewarming anytime it suits you. We’ll be here!

Welcome

www.MasonicCharitiesPa.org

10 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason

Random Acts of Kindness & Community Service “The point is not to pay back kindness but to pass it on.”

- Julia Alvarez, Dominican-American writer

Performing random acts of kindness and community services not only helps the recipients, it inspires those around you. This is all the more reason to share your efforts online. Visit http://www.pagrandlodge.org/rak/index.html to enter your lodge community service initiatives and random acts of kindness on the registry. Not sure what to do? Read on for ways brethren have been making a difference in their communities.

An Unforgettable Act

On Dec. 10, 2010, Bro. John Groves, 33˚, P.M., Harry A. Houseman Lodge No. 717, Bristol, was attending Kensington Kadosh Commandery No. 54 stated conclave. His wife, Joan, was also there for the Ladies Auxiliary meeting.

Joan received a call from a neighbor that their home was on fire. They left the meeting and arrived home to see fire trucks and people all over the place. Lucky for the Groves, the fire was mainly confined to the outside of the house.

Power was cut off by PECO, however, so they were without heat or power.

They were staying with neighbors when they received a call from another neighbor, Bro. John Bellenzeni, Prospect Lodge No. 578, Prospect Park. He told them, “You can move into my house.” Bro. Bellenzeni’s house was for sale and was unoccupied, so the Groves, along with their dog, moved and stayed in his house for three months while their home was repaired.

Bro. Groves is now retired and relocated to West Virginia, but will never forget the kindness he received during a difficult time in his life.

“This is a true Mason, and he should be recognized as such,” Bro. Groves said. “Thank you, Brother John.”

Quiet Cleaner

Unbeknownst to many of his neighbors, Bro. Donald Muston, Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, has been picking

up the trash along the road (about one mile in length) where he lives for more than 30 years.

“Several times a year, young mothers I see on the road tell me how nice it is to be able to walk where there is no accumulation of trash along the road,” Bro. Muston said. “Think of the positive impact if every Mason cleaned just 200 feet of road each spring and fall.”

Bro. Donald Muston keeps his road trash-free.

Prison Visits

Through the Men’s Club of Beth Sholom Congregation in Elkins Park, Bro. Bob Lankin, W.M., P.M., Brotherhood Lodge No. 126, Philadelphia, has visited prisoners and conducted religious services for the Jewish Congregation at Graterford for more than 25 years. He recently learned one of the offenders was being released at the end of the summer. His lodge agreed to support the ex-offender with a $250 stipend for clothes from its charity fund.

400 Miles in Support of Wounded Veterans

On May 1, two retired Marines, Bro. Michael Dreisch, Warren Lodge No. 240, Montrose, and Joe Barletta embarked on a 400-mile journey across the state. Their goal was to bring awareness to and support for Hunts for Healing, a local organization which raises funds to take wounded veterans from across the country hunting, fishing, camping and other outdoor activities at no cost to the participants.

Bro. Dresich served during the Gulf War and in Somalia. He and Barletta, who served during Vietnam, are both wounded soldiers themselves. They didn’t hesitate to volunteer for the trek because “it is far too important that our men and women in uniform receive every bit of support that we can give them,” Bro. Dreisch, chairman of fundraising for Hunts for Healing, said. “We are 100 percent volunteer, so 97 percent of all funds raised go to creating programs for our soldiers.”

They started at mile marker 0 on the Ohio border and traveled along Route 6 with a goal of walking 20 miles per day. Support along the way was incredible, according to Bro. Dreisch.

Many people donated money for Hunts for Healing, as well as water, ice, food or a place for him and Barletta to lay their heads at night.

Despite two months of training, Bro. Dreisch’s knee gave him trouble, and he had

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November 2012

to sit out after 11 days. On May 18, Barletta was greeted by a police escort, Tunkhannock School Marching Band, fire sirens, courthouse employees and County Commissioners as he arrived at the Wyoming County Court House at the conclusion of the journey.

In the future, Bro. Dreisch is “thinking about a less impact idea – either biking across PA or maybe doing a motorcycle ride.”

For more information about Hunts for Healing, to volunteer as a mentor or donate funds toward the organization’s eight to 10 programs a year, visit www.huntsforhealing. com or follow it on Facebook.

act of kindness and the recipient asks how he can repay the kindness, the Mason can reply by presenting the card in a manner appropriate to that particular situation.

“This will gently encourage recipients to consider their own actions toward their fellow man, and hopefully, perform future acts of kindness themselves,” Bro. Honey said. “A simple act of kindness will have a tremendous and positive impact and glorifies God.”

Community Days

Cooking Up Some Community Service

Joe Barletta and Bro. Mike Dreisch depart on their journey across the state.

Paying It Forward with Masonic Ambassador Program

Lodge No. 62, West Reading, recently initiated a Masonic Ambassador Program including pocket-size cards which represent a reminder for current members of their Masonic heritage and an invitation for non-members to learn more about the fraternity.

“As we spread out in our daily lives practicing those principles of religion and morality that are taught within the lodge and we find ourselves in a position to offer a random act of kindness, we should also remember that we are creating a positive moment of truth for Freemasonry,” Bro. Timothy Honey, lodge chaplain, said.

The purpose of the Masonic Ambassador Program is to: 1. Increase a positive public profile.

2. Serve as an enhancement to the already existing sense of Masonic pride.

3. Remind Masons it is their mission to spread the mortar of brotherly love and to serve their fellow man with respect and humility.

4. Lead by the example Masons set, as they are representatives of Freemasonry in general and Lodge No. 62 in particular.

Each member of Lodge No. 62 received two plastic business cards (see image above, center). When a brother performs a random

Bro. Shane F. Connor, W.M.; Susan Myers; and Bro. Emilios V. Sforza, D.D.G.M. for District 27.

Community service committee members from King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346, Connellsville, volunteered to serve dinners at Wesley Church to help raise money for the Wesley Health Center (a free county-wide health center for people who do not have adequate health coverage). A spaghetti dinner was held April 21, and a chicken and biscuit dinner was held May 5.

Bros. Kirk B. Thomas, P.M., and Mitchell D. Goldstein, S.W., from Philanthropy Lodge No. 225, Greensburg, volunteered during Greensburg Community Days over Memorial Day weekend. These brothers, as well as members of Westmoreland Chapter of DeMolay, contributed their time to show support and commitment to community involvement.

Bros. Mitchell D. Goldstein, S.W., and Kirk B. Thomas, P.M.

Fundraiser Supports Multiple Charities

Shown at the spaghetti dinner are (left-right): Bros.

Donald B. Moreman, J.W.; Kenneth R. Brooks; Warren C. Vail, W.M.; James W. Hines, Sr., P.M.; Richards S. Witt, P.M.; Robert A. McLuckey; and Bruce I. Jaynes.

Honoring a Past Brother

On April 19, Argyle Lodge No. 540, Chicora, presented a check to Susan Myers from the Samuel B. David Bequest Fund. The $5,000 check is for her 15-year-old daughter, Brittany.

A Past Secretary, who knew the family was going through some rough times, recommended her. Brittany’s father, Bro. Robert Heller, was a member of Argyle Lodge. He passed away in May 2011.

Juniata Lodge No. 282, Hollidaysburg, held a 200 Club raffle fundraiser on June 9 at the Swiss Club in Altoona, where about 320 guests turned out. The event raised $5,600.

Organized largely by Brothers Justin Arthur and Jeff Kling, the officers spent months preparing for the event and selling tickets. All officers were busy throughout the night as Bro. Adam Nileski, S.W., acted as Master of Ceremonies and announcer; Bro. Paul Dodson, J.W., and Bro. Arthur were responsible for the pull tabs and raffle table; and Brothers Adam Osman, W.M., Calvin Yon, Kling and Jason Wilkinson sold tear-off tickets and pull tabs.

Out of 200 tickets sold, 20 individuals won $50 and three top prize winners took home $1,000 each. The lodge also awarded Pittsburgh Pirates tickets and dinners at the Allegro and the Olive Garden. During the evening, guests also took chances on select raffles and played pull tabs and other small games of chance.

Catering was provided by Karen Rhoa.

“This event was an extremely successful fundraiser for our lodge. It far exceeded our

12 LODGE AND DISTRICT expectations, and everyone seemed to have a great time,” Bro. Nileski said.

With the proceeds from the event, the lodge was able to help with medical and family expenses for a local student, Dalton Igoe, who recently underwent a heart transplant.

Members also donated funds to various local youth organizations and the Masonic Villages.

“Part of being a Freemason is being a good citizen and helping to give back to the communities we live in,” Bro. Osman said.

“The success of this fundraiser enabled us to do this more than we have been able to in recent years. This was truly a group effort from all our members.”

Bros. Jeff Kling; Adam Nileski, S.W.; and Adam Osman, W.M., set up the raffle drawing board.

Saving Lives One Pint at a Time

Members of the 1st Masonic District held the first of their semiannual blood drives on June 23 at the Donegal Masonic Center and the Lancaster Masonic Center. The Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank collected donations.

Bro. Scott E. Baker, Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551, Mount Joy, was in charge of the Donegal Masonic Center and Bro. Ray P. Greiner, Ephrata Lodge No. 665, was responsible for the Lancaster Masonic Center. Between the two locations, approximately 160 individuals donated blood.

Each pint of blood donated earned $10, which the 1st Masonic District donated to the Lancaster Dyslexia Learning Center. Every Mason who donates blood becomes a member of the Masonic Blood Donor Club for life.

Membership entitles him and his family to free blood anywhere in the world, while saving a life at the same time.

Pennsylvania Freemason

Annual Ox Roast

Helping out at the Lancaster Masonic Center are (eft-right): Bro. Dennis G. Peters, Sr., W.M., Lamberton Lodge No. 476, Lancaster; Bro. Ray P. Greiner, Ephrata Lodge No. 665, Principal of the School of Instruction; and Bro. Bill F. Gottschalk, Frankford Lodge No. 292, Philadelphia, District Chairman of the Masonic Blood Donor Club.

Bro. Scott Baker, Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551, Mount Joy, donates blood at the Donegal Masonic Center.

Community Open House

Kittanning East Brady No. 244 and Seneca Lodge No. 805, both of Kittanning, joined together to host an open house and CHIP event at the Kittanning Masonic Temple on June 30. Brethren and members of the Order of the Eastern Star, Rainbow Girls, Scottish Rite and Rayburn Fire Department worked together for the cause. The STAT MedEvac helicopter also helped attract visitors.

Bro. Richard Cribbs, W.M., Seneca Lodge No. 805; STAT MedEvac co-pilot and pilot; Bro. Emilio Sforza, D.D.G.M. for Masonic District 27; and Syria Shrine clowns, Hobie (Bro. Ray Anderson, Armstrong Lodge No. 239, Freeport) and Dots (Bro. Jerry Sciullo, Seneca Lodge No. 805). Not shown is Bro. Richard Kirscht, W.M., Kittanning East Brady Lodge No. 244.

On Aug. 4, Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551, Mount Joy, home of R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith, held its 19th Annual Ox Roast at the Donegal Masonic Center. Brethren and other volunteers served more than 700 meals, the largest number in the event’s history.

The late R.W. Past Grand Master Scott Stoner started the ox roast to raise money for the lodge’s charity fund. The event has grown every year in size and has generated more than $50,000 to date for the charity fund, which is used for scholarships and other acts of charity.

The event is a two-day work detail for all involved. The ox is cooked in a pit in the ground overnight and into the morning. This year, volunteers prepared 550 pounds of ox, 130 dozen ears of corn, 710 baked potatoes and all the other fixings needed to complete the meal.

Guests could eat their meals at the banquet hall or take them home.

Grand Master Smith has always been a monumental part of this large undertaking, as well as many other brothers, wives, youth groups and friends. An average of 25 brethren was working at any given time, alongside many wives and 12 to 14 members of Job’s Daughters and DeMolay.

“Everyone involved worked very hard on a very hot day as they enjoyed the fellowship and brotherly love,” Bro. Larry A. Derr, District Deputy Grand Master for the 1st Masonic District, said. “We all look forward to the next ox roast in 2013.”

Meat-slicing station with Bro. Larry Derr, D.D.G.M. for District 1 (left)

5K Raises 35K

Members of Warren Lodge No. 310, Collegeville, helped with the 4th Annual Marc Small 5K Run on Aug. 4 to benefit Small Steps in Speech. The lodge donated $250 and six brethren assisted with parking and the scouts water stations. This year, 560 runners and walkers participated in the 5K and raised

LODGE AND DISTRICT 13

November 2012

more than $35,000.

Small Steps in Speech helps children with speech and language disorders. It was created in memory of SSG Marc Small, who was killed in Afghanistan while serving his country as a Special Forces medic. The non-profit organization provides grants to help children across the country receive therapy, treatments and communicative devices and other services aimed at improving their communication skills.

District hit the pavement for the Dash for Dad, a 5K run/1 mile walk, on Aug. 25 in Lancaster County Central Park. Sporting F. & A.M. District 1 team shirts, donated by Bro. Dennis Weller, P.M., Manheim Lodge No. 587, 21 runners and walkers raised $525. Bro. Andrew Zeamer, W.M., Columbia Lodge No. 286, Wrightsville, served as team captain.

The F. & A.M. District 1 Team received a medal for having the most members and raising the most money. Bro. Lee Barshinger, P.M., Manheim Lodge No. 587, received a medal for being the 5k Overall Male runner in his age bracket.

Left-right: Bro. Adam Sandt, Warren Lodge No. 310; Carol Staneruck; Bro. Bill Staneruck, P.M., Charity Lodge No. 190, Jeffersonville, and Norristown Lodge No. 620; Bro. Michael Kempster, Warren Lodge No. 310; Bro. Jim Armenti, Warren Lodge No. 310; and Bro. Jeff Kline, Warren Lodge No. 310.

Building Hope

On Aug. 18, brethren of the 54th Masonic District participated in a Habitat for Humanity Build-A-Thon. All lodges in the district supported the project financially, and members of Pollock Lodge No. 502, Tyrian Lodge No. 644 and Bethel Lodge No. 789 helped with the construction.

During the Build-A-Thon, volunteers built small sheds/playhouses which were auctioned off to raise money for Habitat for Humanityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission of providing low-cost, interest-free homes to families currently living in substandard housing.

Left-right: Bros. Larry Shane, P.M., Tyrian Lodge No. 644; Ryan Shane, W.M., Tyrian Lodge No. 644; Hugh Rumbaugh, W.M., Pollock Lodge No. 502; Steve Baksis, W.M., Bethel Lodge No. 789; Tim Hawk, P.M., Bethel Lodge No. 789; and P.J. Roup, D.D.G.M.

Dash for Dad

In support of ZERO, the project to end prostate cancer, brethren from the 1st Masonic

Bro. Lee Barshinger runs the Dash for Dad race.

Kindness Across State Lines

Thank you, to each and every one of my brothers in Lake Erie Lodge No. 347, Girard, Pa., for extending such great support to my son (a Mason) and daughter in their deepest time of need.

Their mother passed away indigent, and they were desperate to find a way to give her a proper memorial.

They turned to you for help, and in true Masonic support, you opened your lodge and arms to them in their hour of need. [The lodge hosted a memorial and wake for their mother.]

Also, someone there opened their wallets and donated $500 anonymously to the Edder Funeral home to help defray costs. They will not tell me who it was.

But once again, I feel the power of our brotherhood helping another brother and his family.

I know my lodge, University Lodge No. 631, Linworth, Ohio, is deeply indebted to you all.

If you ever find yourself in the Columbus, Ohio area, please stop in and say hello.

Thank you once again, Brothers.

I am indebted to you all.

MSANA Provides Disaster Relief to Couple

Bro. Wilbur Black, Ivy Lodge No. 397, Williamsport, and his wife, Pauline, a member of Monsey Chapter No. 321, O.E.S., Muncy, were displaced from their home after hurricane Irene in September 2011. Their home and contents were lost as a result of the flooding of Loyalsock Creek.

District Deputy Grand Master for District 18 Kenneth W. McClintock was instrumental in seeking funding for the Blacks from the Masonic Services Association of North America (MSANA) Disaster Relief Fund, which they were granted.

They are now in their new home at the same location, but at a higher elevation than their previous home, in which they had lived since 1969.

The Blacks were surprised by and very thankful for the financial assistance.

The MSANA was formed in 1919 to provide services to its member Grand Lodges that they would find difficult to provide for themselves. The primary functions and activities of the MSANA are to collect and forward funds for disaster relief around the world, offer educational and informational publications, provide information on Freemasonry to Masons and non-Masons alike, respond to critics of Freemasonry, and provide assistance and service to our sick or wounded veterans. For more information, visit www.msana.com.

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CONGRATULATIONS TO...

Bro. G. Kent Hackney, 33˚, District Deputy Grand Master (D.D.G.M.) for District B, presented a Century Club Recognition Certificate and Pin to Bro. Allan W. Stitzer, W.M., P.M., during the June stated meeting of University Lodge No. 51, Philadelphia.

Bro. Hackney also has received the Century Club honor.

Bro. Stitzer’s degree work began in 1971. He first served as Worshipful Master in 1973.

During the January stated meeting, his first night in the East, the Grand Lodge visited Lodge No. 51 to install Allan’s father, Arthur B. Stitzer, Jr., P.M., as D.D.G.M. of District A. Bro. Stitzer takes great pride in noting that six of the 100+ degrees he conferred were at a stated meeting on June 14, 2004, when he conferred the three degrees on each of his two sons by dispensation of then-R.W. Grand Master William Slater II. Left-right: Brothers Allan W. Stitzer, Jr.; Allan W. Stitzer, W.M., P.M.; D.D.G.M. for District B G. Kent Hackney, 33˚, and J. David Stitzer, P.M.

B. Monte Kemmler, P.M., Mount Union Lodge No. 688, was installed as the Worthy Grand Patron of the Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, Order of Eastern Star, at the Annual Session on June 30 in York. He will serve for the 2012-2013 Chapter year.

Bro. B. Monte Kemmler, P. M., and Bro. S. Eugene Herritt, R.W. Junior Grand Warden, representing Jay W. Smith, R.W. Grand Master.

Bro. George R. Hixon, P.M., James Cochran Lodge No. 614, Connellsville, received his Diamond Jubilee Service Award from R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith on Feb. 4 at the Pleasant Valley Masonic Center for 75 years of service to the Craft. Bro. Hixon entered the Craft on March 9, 1937 and served as Worshipful Master in 1944 and in 1954.

Bro. George R. Hixon, P.M., received his award from R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith.

Bro. Barry Martz, Cumberland Lodge No. 315, Shippensburg, has been chosen to serve as Sovereign Prince of the Council of Princes of Jerusalem, one of four Masonic organizations comprising the Scottish Rite bodies of the Valley of Harrisburg.

Bro. Martz served as Worshipful Master of his lodge in 2003. He serves as a Regional Chairman of Masonic Education for the Grand Lodge and as President of the Shippensburg Scottish Rite Club.

Bro. William S. Arnold, Sr., 33°, Mount Olivet Masonic Lodge No. 704, Lebanon, was elected to serve as Commander-in-Chief of the Harrisburg Consistory, one of four Masonic bodies comprising the Valley of Harrisburg, A.A.S.R., for the next three years.

He served as Worshipful Master of his lodge in 1979, as a Regional Instructor of Ritualistic Work for Masonic Region 2, as District Deputy Grand Master for the 60th Masonic District from 1989-1998 and as president of the Lebanon County Scottish Rite Club, in addition to many other Masonic affiliations and posts.

November 2012

LODGE AND DISTRICT 15

On June 27, at the High Twelve International Annual Convention in Tucson, Ariz., Bro. Donald M. Whistler, York Lodge No. 266, was elected International President of High Twelve International. Bro. Winton E. Hewitt, Cassia Mount Horeb Lodge No. 273, Ardmore, was elected Third International Vice President, and Bro. William H. Haynes, Pocono Lodge No. 780, Cresco, was elected Endowment Fund Trustee. Bro. Matthew D. Dupee, Esq., Shiloh Lodge No. 558, Souderton, was appointed General Counsel, and Bro. and Rev. William D. Hartman, Lodge No. 9, Philadelphia, was appointed Associate Prelate. Bro. George W. Tracy, Esq., Shiloh Lodge No. 558, serves as Treasurer, General Counsel and Zone 7 Representative for the Wolcott Foundation.

High Twelve is an association of Master Masons dedicated to the unification of Master Masons, independent of the formal ritual.

Members are dedicated to service to the fraternity, developing long-lasting friendships, encouraging and supporting the public school systems, participating in constructive community activities and preserving the principles of good government based on the rights of the individual. High Twelve supports Masonic causes with special emphasis on youth support and patriotic events. Its principal charity is the Wolcott Foundation, which provides fully paid scholarships to graduate students majoring in public or governmental administration at George Washington University. To locate local High Twelve in your area, visit www.high12.org.

On April 9, the Pennsylvania Shield & Square Club degree team conferred its 100th degree since its inception in 1998. Under the direction of Degree Chairman William A. Klosz, P.M., Joseph H. Brown Lodge No. 751 and Widener Apollo Kensington Lodge No. 211, both of Philadelphia; the team conferred the 3rd degree on Bro. William McCarthy, a retired Philadelphia Police Lieutenant in Joseph H. Brown Lodge No. 751 at the Tacony Temple in Philadelphia.

The Pennsylvania Shield & Square degree team is available to confer the 3rd degree on active or retired law enforcement Fellowcraft Masons in Region 1. For information about the club, email ShieldandSquareClub@aol.com.

Bro. Jeffrey S. Greene, P.D.D.G.M., Club President, (front row, 1st on left) and all the members of the original degree team as well as Shield and Square Club members present for the occasion. Bro. William McCarthy, (front row, 3rd from right) is joined by Bro. Edmond F. Margerum, (front row, 4th from left) a retired Philadelphia Police Sergeant, who was the first person raised by Bro. Klosz (between Bros. McCarthy and Margerum) and his team. Bro. Margerum is also a member of Joseph H. Brown Lodge No. 751. The same degree team that raised Bro. Margerum was assembled to raise Bro. McCarthy.

The Grand Lodge officers of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and the Grand Lodge of Ohio

Pennsylvania Ohio Brotherhood Unity Night The Valley of New Castle and Mahoning New Castle Lodge No. 243, New Castle, hosted the Third Annual Pennsylvania Ohio Brotherhood Night in the West Lodge Room of the Scottish Rite Cathedral on Sept. 11. It was a pleasure to welcome R.W. Grand Master of Pennsylvania Jay W. Smith, M.W. Grand Master of Ohio Kevin B. Todd and more than 200 members for the evening.

The fourth Brotherhood Unity Night has been scheduled for Sept. 10, 2013, in Ohio.

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Pennsylvania Freemason

Lebanon Masons Celebrate New Building On June 24, the new Lebanon Masonic building at 499 South 14th Avenue opened its doors to more than 200 people. Some were fellow brethren, visiting the new lodge for the first time, and others were family, friends and community members coming to show interest and support. This three-hour open house was a collaborative effort between Mt. Lebanon Lodge No. 226 and Mt. Olivet Lodge No. 704, with Worshipful Masters Travis C. Hossler and John H. Doebling, respectively.

During guided tours, speakers explained the function of the lodge room and gave detailed information about the building’s overall design and layout. Children enjoyed bouncers, face painting, spin art and clowns. After browsing tables featuring various Masonic branches, visitors were able to enjoy live music with food, refreshments and an array of desserts. Local fire companies were on site to speak to the guests and demonstrate several of their new pieces of equipment.

The day was a huge success, not only bringing the Masonic family closer, but also showing the temple’s neighbors what the fraternity and its branches have to offer. The day would not have been possible without the assistance of men and women in various Masonic bodies, some of whom met in person for the first time that day. It was inspiring to feel the positive atmosphere fill the new building.

Table Lodges a Success in District 1 All of the lodges in District 1 were asked to hold a Table Lodge during 2012. R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith attended Columbia Lodge No. 286’s Table Lodge on June 7. After the stated meeting, more than 75 members and visitors retired to the banquet hall for the Table Lodge, conducted properly with a meal and three toasts.

Each lodge in the district that has held a Table Lodge to date saw increased member attendance and participation.

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November 2012

Pennsylvania May Warrant its First Spanish-Speaking Lodge R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith has authorized the potential warranting of the first Spanish-speaking lodge in the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, to be named Alto Meridiano Lodge. District Deputy Grand Master G. Kent Hackney has been working with potential charter members to make it a reality, as the lodge would be assigned to Masonic District B. The group needs 50 members to apply for the lodgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s warrant.

If you are interested in being a charter member of this future lodge, contact Basil Veiga,

P.M., at Basilio.Veiga@gmail.com.

Photo, above: Members of the future Alto Meridiano Lodge met August 18 at the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia. Front row: Brothers G. Kent Hackney, P.D.D.G.M., D.D.G.M. for District B; Basil Veiga, P.M., New London Lodge No. 545, West Grove, and Curros Enriquez Lodge No. 114, Grand Lodge of Spain. Back row: Brothers Howard J. Bowhall, New London Lodge No. 545 and Oxford Lodge No. 353; Angel Pinto, PalestineRoxborough Lodge No. 135, Philadelphia; Tracey Aliberti, New London Lodge No. 545; Orlando

Paul Salvato II, Penn Lodge No. 709, Concordville, and Chester Lodge No. 236; Charles Shelton, Oxford Lodge No. 353; Orlando Paul Salvato Jr., Penn Lodge No. 709, Concordville; Amaro S. Garza, Mozart Lodge No. 436, Philadelphia; Osvaldo Sepulveda Rodriguez, Kennett Lodge No. 475, Kennett Square; David Maicher, New London Lodge No. 545; John Mason, Mozart Lodge No. 436; Enrique Rosario, Merchantville Lodge No. 119, Grand Lodge of New Jersey; Raymond Yabor, Lodge No. 9 and St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lodge No. 115, both of Philadelphia; and Daniel W. Wagner, University Lodge No. 51, Philadelphia.

Lodge Welcomes DDGM & Brother from Scotland Bro. Douglas Heinz, D.D.G.M. for District 55, and Bro. David Reid, Past Provincial Grand Master for The Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East-Scotland, U.K., attended the May 15 stated meeting of Milnor Lodge No. 287, Pittsburgh. During the event, Bro. Richard Romig received his 60-year Masonic Service Award, and Brothers John W. Bouloubasis, P.M., Gordon Reid and William E. Devorak, P.M., received their 50-year Masonic Service Awards. Brothers Gordon and David Reid are brothers in both senses of the word.

Right: Brothers David Reid, P.P.G.M., Scotland; Raymond Senko, W.M., Milnor Lodge No. 287; and Douglas Heinz, D.D.G.M., District 55.

18 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason

Masonic Parade is a Grand Slam The Grand Slam Parade is hosted annually by the 18th Masonic District and the Valley of Williamsport to pay honor to the late Bro. Carl E. Stotz, John F. Laedlein Lodge No. 707, South Williamsport, the “founder of Little League Baseball.” This parade annually kicks off the activities of the Little League World Series.

Pennsylvania Masons certainly made a “grand” appearance on Aug. 15, with all the highest ranking officers in the Grand Lodge, Grand Chapter, Grand Council and Grand Commandery in attendance, along with the

Grand Tall Cedar of North America. Other Masonic bodies in attendance included Valley of Williamsport, A.A.S.R.; Zafar Grotto; Shrine Mini Cars; Tall Cedars Mini Cars; and the Irem String Band. The Worshipful Master, Senior Warden and Junior Warden of each of the nine lodges in District 18 rode on a float honoring Bro. Stotz.

Overall, well over 200 Masons marched or rode in the parade, waving to the more than 35,000 spectators along the parade route.

Photos, above: Left - Social gathering of all Masons at the Acacia Club in the A.A.S.R., where all Masonic parade participants were treated before and after the parade with to dogs, snacks, soda and more.

Center - R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith on the Statue of Liberty float.

Right - The Grand Lodge float carrying Grand Lodge officers and the officers of the 18th Masonic District.

Titusville Lodge No. 754 Celebrates 75 Years

Brothers Jay W. Smith, R.W. Grand Master, and Karl R. Felding, W.M., Titusville Lodge No. 754.

In attendance at the Sept. 8 celebration of Titusville Lodge No. 754’s 75th Anniversary were Brothers Jay W. Smith, R.W.G.M.; Robert J. Bateman, R.W.D.G.M.; S. Eugene Herritt, R.W.J.G.W.; Bernard D. Hanmore, D.D.G.M. for the 25th Masonic District; and Karl R. Fielding,

W.M., Titusville Lodge No. 754.

Also in attendance were other Grand Lodge officers, District Deputies from the surrounding area, officers of Titusville Lodge No. 754, officers of other 25th Masonic District lodges and dignitaries from several subordinate bodies. Grand Master Smith presented Bro. Fielding with a Grand Lodge Medallion and congratulated the lodge in this milestone event.

On Sept. 1, 1937, in response to a petition signed by 187 Master Masons, mostly from Oil Creek Lodge No. 303 or Shepherd Lodge No. 463 and endorsed by three District Deputy Grand Masters, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania granted a warrant for a new lodge in Titusville, Crawford County. The warrant was signed by R.W. Grand Master Harold N. Rust and the other Grand Lodge officers, and Titusville Lodge No. 754 was constituted on Oct. 15 of that year.

Warrant Officers were Brothers Peter L. Gedeon as Worshipful Master, Harold A. Schwartz as

Senior Warden and Knute O. Benson as Junior Warden. Brothers John A. Lawrence, Treasurer, and Frederick S. Carlson, Secretary, were also installed at the time of constitution. On Dec. 27, 1989, Titusville Lodge No. 754 received Sparta Lodge No. 372 by merger.

At the time of the lodge’s constitution in 1937, Bro. Franklin Delano Roosevelt was President of the United States and Bro. George Howard Earle, III, was Governor of Pennsylvania.

In that year, the Sesquicentennial of the U.S. Constitution was celebrated in Philadelphia, the first blood bank was established, Amelia Earhart disappeared during her attempt to be the first woman to fly around the world, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” was the first feature-length animated cartoon and was a smash hit, the first editions of J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit” and John Steinbeck’s “Of Mice and Men” rolled off the presses, and Daffy Duck made his debut.

LODGE AND DISTRICT 19

November 2012

Two Lodges Celebrate their Sesquicentennials SKERRETT LODGE NO. 343 It was an historical day for Skerrett Lodge No. 343, Cochranville, as members celebrated the lodge’s 150th year on June 23. (It’s actual anniversary was July 10, 2012.)

Bro. Alan D. Manning, Jr., W.M., cordially welcomed R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith to the East along with other Grand Lodge officers.

After a short meeting, Grand Master Smith congratulated the members of Skerrett Lodge not only on its milestone, but on how the lodge has been transformed since his last visit as a District Deputy Grand Master (1991-1999).

More than 120 guests enjoyed a fine dinner and a program titled, “150 years of History as Seen through the Eyes of Skerrett Lodge No. 343,” presented by Brothers Craig W. Shaffer, P.M., and John H. Moravitz. The evening was dedicated in memory of Bro. G. Richard McLucas, P.M., Past Grand Tyler.

A Masonic quilt, made by Billie Marlin and Penny Bowser of Cochranville Chapter No. 347, Order of the Eastern Star, was raffled off and won by Josephine Coates.

While the brethren attended lodge, the ladies attended a presentation on antique music boxes

by Bro. Chet Ramsay, P.M., Coatesville Lodge No. 564, and his lady, Jean, at the Wyncote Country Club.

Skerrett Lodge hosted an open house for the community on Aug. 11. The current membership meets in the same “Brick Hall” built by members of Hebron Lodge No. 437, I.O.O.F., back in 1861.

A Bit of History...

The petition for the lodge was signed by 11 Master Masons and recommended to the Grand Lodge by members of West Chester Lodge No. 322 on April 28, 1862 and Williamson Lodge No. 309 A.Y.M., Downingtown, on May 9. Grand Lodge issued the warrant on June 16, signed by R.W. Grand Master John Thomson and the other Grand Lodge officers. Skerrett Lodge No. 343 was constituted on July 10. Warrant officers were Brothers Robert L. McClelland as Worshipful Master, John Gilfeltan as Senior Warden and John C. Morgan as Junior Warden. The lodge was named in honor of then-Deputy Grand Master Dr. David Christie Skerrett (1796-1873) who served as Grand Master 1863-1864.

MILFORD LODGE NO. 344 Milford Lodge celebrated its 150th Anniversary celebration on Sept. 15, beginning

Front row, left-right: Brothers Harry E. Hackman, Jr., P.D.D.G.M.; Stephen Gardner, R.W.P.G.M.; Robert J. Bateman, R.W.D.G.M.; Jay W. Smith, R.W.G.M.; S. Eugene Herritt, R.W.J.G.W.; and Alan D. Manning, Jr., W.M. Second row, left- right: Brothers Robert G. Harley, P.M., Substitute Representative to Grand Lodge; Michael E. Franklin, P.M., Pursuivant; J. Anthony Bard, S.W.; David W. Jansen, P.M., S.M.C.; Edward Gomez, J.W.; James S. Landis, P.M., Treasurer; and Scott J. Helm, J.D. Third row, leftright: Brothers Bernardo DeLellis, Secretary; J. Allen Reynolds, J.M.C.; Mark Reynolds, S.D.; and William H. Tennant, Jr., P.M., Chaplain with a special open house for the public with tours from 1 to 3 p.m. Afterward, members invited the community to join them in celebrating their momentous occasion at the Best Western Inn at Hunt’s Landing in Matamoras.

The events also served to pave the way for the lodge’s One Day Masonic Journey on Oct. 20.

“I am so proud to be celebrating our 150-year anniversary this year,” said Fred W. Cron, W.M. “For anything to last 150 years is incredible, but when people continue to join together in support of fellowship and goodwill to their community, it’s all the better. I believe in the work that we do, and this anniversary is a testament to our past members and to supporting their mission into a long, steady future.”

With a current membership of 130, Milford Lodge has been involved with various donor programs, youth programs and camps and the Child Identification Program (CHIP).

“Bettering our community and doing good for others is what drives us all. The strong bonds and friendships that have grown are icing on the cake,” Bro. Cron said.

A Bit of History...

The lodge was founded when seven Master Masons signed a petition requesting a warrant to constitute Milford Lodge in Pike County, which was recommended by Barger Lodge No. 325, Stroudsburg, on Jan. 13, 1862. Grand Lodge issued the warrant on June 24, signed

by R.W. Grand Master John Thomson and the other Grand Lodge officers. Milford Lodge No. 344 was constituted by District Deputy Grand Master William L. Stewart on Dec. 18 of that year. Warrant Officers were Brothers David M. Vanauken as Worshipful Master, George P. Heller as Senior Warden and John C. Mott as Junior Warden.

Formed in 1814, Pike County was named for Zebulon Montgomery Pike (1779-1813), a General killed in the War of 1812. Logging soon became the chief industry, followed by farming and quarrying.

Also in 1962...

At the time Skerrett and Milford lodges were founded, Bro. Andrew G. Curtin was Governor of Pennsylvania, and Abraham Lincoln was President. Many significant events occurred in 1862: the Civil War was pitting brother against brother just 80 miles away in Gettysburg, President Lincoln signed into law the Pacific Railway Acts authorizing construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad, Liberia and Haiti were the first black nations recognized by the U.S. government, and Bro. Richard J. Gatling patented the Gatling gun. On Sept.

22, President Lincoln made a preliminary announcement of the Emancipation Proclamation and, in his State of the Union Address on Dec. 1, reaffirmed the necessity of ending slavery as ordered 10 weeks earlier.

20 LIBR ARY & MUSEUM

Pennsylvania Freemason

“A Pennsylvania Masonic Handbook: the Personal ‘Ahiman Rezon’”

by Bro. Robert E. Burtt • Reviewed by Cathy Giaimo, Assistant Librarian, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania

The times are changing in the method of becoming a Mason. Lodges are encouraged to host open house events to help de-mythologize the fraternity. Men are freer to invite their friends and family members to join them in membership activities. One day classes to receive

all three degrees are now acceptable. All these new members will hopefully breathe some fresh air into their respective lodges.

As an aid to these new members, Robert E. Burtt, a Pennsylvania Mason himself, has written “A Pennsylvania Masonic Handbook” as a guide to lodge membership and Freemasonry.

Bro. Burt’s book is written in a friendly tone, as if sharing his insight and knowledge with a good friend.

Bro. Burtt covers quite a bit of ground in a small book (fewer than 150 pages). In Part One, he gives a brief overview of the history of Freemasonry, then goes on to explain the lodge room and some of the symbols found there, the lodge officers and their duties and some of the particulars of the meeting. The mid-section of the book, Part Two, is given over to explanations of the three degrees: Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason, as they are done in Pennsylvania. While he never gives away the inner workings of the degrees, Bro. Burtt does

a masterful job of explaining what is going on during the rituals. Part Three closes with a bit more history of Freemasonry in the United States up through the 21st century and bravely discusses some of the criticisms that non-Masons have made on our beloved fraternity. Bro. Burtt ends by briefly describing the appendant bodies that also vie for your membership.

Though “A Pennsylvania Masonic Handbook” is aimed at the newly-made Mason, any member would benefit from reading it as a reminder of why he joined the fraternity in the first place. If you care to borrow this book, just visit The Masonic Library and Museum online catalog at www.pagrandlodge.org or call the library at 800-462-0430, ext. 1933.

You may also purchase this book from The Museum Shop at 800-336-7317 or from its website, www.masonicmuseumgifts.com.

Music Exhibit in Tune for Visitors to Museum The sheet music collection is now catalogued, joining the anthologies of, and books about, music. A small exhibit has been mounted in the Museum at the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia to celebrate the news. These are some items of interest: The 1855 Chestnut Street Hall is represented only by its “Grand Dedication March” by G.G. Boettger, but the Library likely has all of the music from the dedication of the present Masonic Temple in 1873. The Grand Lodge dedicated the current Masonic Temple on Sept. 23; the Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter dedicated Renaissance Hall on Sept. 29; and the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar dedicated Gothic Hall as their Asylum on Sept. 30. The words of all the vocal music are printed. In the “Dedication Memorial,” whose printing plates are also on exhibit.

Music publishers were often instrumentalists, music arrangers and teachers – and vice versa.

Bro. Richard Kern (1891-1982, Grand Master 1946-1947) was a renowned physician and a professor of internal medicine at Jefferson

Medical College in Philadelphia (now Jefferson University). He served in both World Wars and held, among many other posts, that of Chief of the General Medical Division, Department of Medicine and Surgery for the Veterans Administration (retiring as a Rear Admiral in the Naval Reserves). Grand Master Kern loved

to sing; much of the four-part men’s chorus music in the collection was his.

Composers and Brothers John Edgar Gould, Harry James Lincoln, Willy Richter and Frank Waters were Pennsylvania Masons. Lyricist Richard Vaux was Grand Master 1868-1869.

Much of their music is not Masonic. There are more famous Freemasons who wrote important Masonic music. In addition to the Masonic opera, “The Magic Flute” (libretto by Bro. Emanuel Schikaneder), Bro. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart wrote several smaller works for the lodge, including “A Little Freemasons’ Cantata” and “Masonic Funeral Music.” Bro. John Philip Sousa composed the march, “Nobles of the Mystic Shrine,” and Bro. Jan Sibelius is remembered fondly for his “Masonic Ritual Music.”

Note: Not all of the compositions mentioned in this article are on exhibit. Many of the popular songs in the collection may be considered politically incorrect today.

LIBR ARY & MUSEUM 21

November 2012

Masonic Temple Maintenance Update

By Bro. Danny Hinds, Superintendent of the Masonic Temple

The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania is committed to maintaining the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia, its headquarters and the home of the Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania. This year, with the continued help of brethren’s donations, we have been able to make the following repairs.

The benches in Norman and Oriental Halls were taken out of the Temple by Summerdale Mills Fabric and Decorating Center of Philadelphia.

They were stripped to the bare wood and reupholstered with wood touch up where

necessary.

The carpet in Norman Hall is being replaced with matching new carpet being made by Langhorne Carpet Company of Penndel, Pa. Capri Painting Inc. of Philadelphia was brought in to provide plaster repairs and touch up painting throughout Norman and Oriental Halls, where needed. There is a new handicap accessible chair lift being installed by Total Access Elevator & Lifts Co. of West Chester, Pa. This will enable us to provide modern wheelchair access to the Temple.

Next year, with the help of the brethren, we will continue the maintenance program by refurbishing the benches, plaster and paint in Egyptian and Ionic halls and make other capital improvements to the interior of the Masonic Temple.

We appreciate the generosity of those who donated to these renovation efforts (listed below).

We are grateful for the fundraising work done by the Masonic Charities Office, as well as the late District Deputy Grand Master Tom Hopkins.

Thank you to the following donors who made this project possible: Charles E. Entrekin Concordia Lodge No. 67 Fernwood Lodge No. 543 Frank W. Podrebarac Joseph H. Brown Lodge No. 751 Lodge No. 2 Mary Commandery No. 36 K.T. of Pennsylvania

Masonic Charity Golf Tournament - East Philadelphia-Potter Lodge No. 72 Pilgrim Lodge No. 712 Richard Vaux-Ivanhoe Lodge No. 384 Richmond Lodge No. 230 Royal Arch Chapter No. 3 Shekinah Lodge No. 246

Solomon’s Lodge No. 3 St. John’s Commandery No. 4 The Temple Masonic School of Instruction University Lodge No. 51 Washington Lodge No. 59 William L. Elkins Lodge No. 271

Brother Theodore Roosevelt: Our Newest Byers’ Choice!

We proudly announce our fifth and newest Byers’ Choice Masonic Brother, President Theodore Roosevelt.

Available exclusively through the Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania, Bro. Roosevelt wears gold spectacles, a brown suit and fedora and holds a map of the Panama Canal, along with the famous icon of his presidency, the teddy bear! His white-collared shirt, detailed jacket, paisley neck tie and houndstooth vest, complete with button, are made of various haberdashery materials. He is wearing the removable Masonic apron of his lodge: Matinecock Lodge No. 806, Oyster Bay, N.Y. The cost is $75 plus shipping (and sales tax in Pennsylvania). He may be ordered online from www.masonicmuseumgifts.com or by calling 800-336-7317 and ordering with credit card or check. Bro. Teddy Roosevelt joins our four other famous Masonic figures: Brothers George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, John Philip Sousa and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. A few of each are still available for purchase. Order yours today!

22 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason

Growing PA Rainbow - Together!

On July 22–25, in Grand Rapids, Mich., 19 delegates represented Pennsylvania (PA) Rainbow at the biannual Supreme Assembly “Bridge to the Future” Session. Diana Jolly, Junior Past Grand Worthy Advisor, served as a Supreme Page and also gave the tribute to the International Rainbow Flag. Our 10 Rainbow Girls participated in a team ritualistic competition. Kathryn Webster, Grand Worthy Associate Advisor, earned a third place trophy in the advanced individual category. Nikki Schafer, Grand Worthy Advisor,

was the Installing Soloist for the Installation of Miss Mary Adeline Bradford, of Maryland Rainbow, as Supreme Worthy Advisor.

For the next two years, there will be a special emphasis on a combined Membership/ Service incentive. Because PA Rainbow has been one of the leading jurisdictions in increasing membership, the chair of the committee is Mrs. Helen Snedden, Supreme Deputy for PA Rainbow.

This year’s Supreme Assembly highlighted the “Dad-To-Dad” Program, designed to encourage all fathers and/or male mentors of Rainbow Girls to be an active part of their daughters’ Rainbow experience. The idea of the Dad program is to showcase ways to have a great time getting involved in supporting community service projects and other events.

eadrsJay r h T ste New nd Ma

who . G ra rs, R.W youth leaders ngs. e d a le h meeti ron for ic yout Mason Masonic Ap d their lodge oundation r u o r l n F no ey atte Youth r to ho is specia ar by In orde s designed th wear when th PA Masonic rted ever y ye ons y the y Mas rs to e repo ith ha W. Sm onic membe distributed b entor y will b e used only b Brother v s a e b a n are M prons will b groups. An i available to ll know that his time i A e h w b n t e i iv g i ll ou ou Thes sonic Y he aprons w ult leaders. Y n is actively g ople grow in a M e h T pe ad pro to t ps. ity. r young g th i s a gistered al grou nd abil the loc e currently re who is wearin nt to help ou character a Mason who ar and tale

There is a formal ceremony available that can be presented by local assemblies at Rainbow or Masonic meetings. The program includes a story about a girl growing up through the years in Rainbow and then presenting a Rainbow Dad Splash pin to the Dad and/or Dad mentor who is part of the Rainbow Girl’s life. Don Line, PA Rainbow Senior Grand Executive, is on this Supreme committee and is the PA Rainbow representative. Any lodge interested in seeing this ceremony should contact its local Mother Advisor or Mrs. Helen Snedden at hsnedden@aol.com. We are “Growing PA Rainbow – Together!”

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION 23

November 2012

Grand Master Leads Youth in Having Fun! For more than 20 years, a cottage in North East, Md., has played host to members of the Masonic youth groups. The Job’s Daughters and DeMolay teenagers who enjoyed the boating, water skiing and tubing in the 1980s and early 1990s are now enjoying their time at the cottage with a new generation of youth group members – many of them, their own children. The constant over the years has been long-time DeMolay Advisor Jay W. Smith, now our R.W. Grand Master.

This past summer has been more of the

same, as members of Job’s Daughters Bethel 15 and the Elizabethtown DeMolay Chapter each spent a weekend of fun in the sun. Grand Master Smith joined them, piloting the boat on the bay and having as much fun as the young people.

Brooke Spence, Honored Queen of Bethel 15, and her brother, Alex Spence, immediate Past Master Councilor of Elizabethtown DeMolay, arranged use of the cottage with their grandfather for return outings to Red Point Beach this past summer. Always a fun weekend for the young

people, the beach area offers a variety of water fun, fishing, visits to the historic lighthouse at Turkey Point and plenty of good food! During their stay, the DeMolays managed to gobble a deep fried turkey; finish off two pans of deep dish lasagna; consume platters of pancakes, eggs and sausage; and devour enough hot dogs and hamburgers to feed a small army.

Plans are already underway for the youth groups to return to the cottage in the summer of 2013.

DeMolay Honors Supporters

During the Pennsylvania (PA) DeMolay Convention held in York over the summer, two of DeMolay’s most devoted enthusiasts were honored when Executive Officer Thomas R.

Labagh presented the collar of Honorary Member in DeMolay International’s governing body to R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith and Supreme Tall Cedar Harvey “Bud” Willard.

Grand Master Smith has been active as a DeMolay Advisor for nearly 30 years, spending 20 years as an advisor for Lancaster Chapter and more recently as an advisor for PA DeMolay.

His exemplary service has been recognized with the Cross of Honor and the Honorary Legion of Honor. He has served DeMolay in many capacities, including Chapter Advisor and Advisory Council Chairman. He is also a Past Dean of the William J. McCulley Legion of Honor Preceptory.

Supreme Tall Cedar Willard is a Past Master Councilor of Norristown Chapter and holds the Representative DeMolay Award, the Chevalier and the Active Legion of Honor. For the past

five years, he has assisted with the presentation of the Past Master Councilor’s Meritorious Service Award, long sponsored by the Supreme Forest of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon.

24 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason

Miss Job’s Daughters Pageant The 43rd Annual Miss Job’s Daughter of Pennsylvania Scholarship Pageant was held on April 14 at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith served as Master of Ceremonies.

The Miss Job’s Daughter is chosen among those who enter the competition in the spring. Through competitions in etiquette, ritual knowledge, a speech presentation, personal interviews, a stage presentation and answering a finalist question, the Miss Job’s Daughter is selected. Miss Louesa Piatek, PHQ, Bethel 12, Gettysburg, was chosen as Miss Job’s Daughter 2012-2013. Her motto for the year is “Spread Your Wings and Fly,” and the dove is her mascot.

She is a freshman attending Juniata College.

On average, the pageant also raises approximately $10-$12,000 for the Grand Guardian Council Scholarship Fund to give to lucky applicants from Job’s Daughters in Pennsylvania.

The Miss Congeniality is also chosen among her peers competing that weekend. She is then given first choice to serve the Commonwealth as the Daughter HIKE Coordinator, if she so desires. Miss Jenny Chappell, HQ from Bethel 1, York, was named Miss Congeniality 2012-2013. She is a sophomore at Kennard-Dale High School and is active with various activities at school.

Job’s Daughters ‘Bloom, Lead, Soar’ at JDU Leadership Week 2012 Members of Pennsylvania Job’s Daughters gathered at the Masonic Conference Center July 8-13 for their annual Job’s Daughters University, a week-long leadership event focusing on the development of personal life skills. The week, planned by youth leaders under the guidance of adult advisors, provided workshops on topics such as ritual, Masonic heritage, history of the Patton Campus, safe babysitting and fundraising, and a daily “Girls Circle,” addressing the issues facing today’s teen girls.

Special guests included the Elizabethtown Fire Department discussing fire safety and safe driving practices, the Humane League presenting pet safety and R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith helping with the car wash fundraiser (photo on top right). Members of our Masonic family joined us each day to meet the girls and talk about their organizations. Masonic Village residents enjoyed sharing their afternoon Beach Ball dance and sing along (photo on middle right).

The week also provided fun team-building activities. Member Mollie Farace was invited to throw out the first pitch at the Lancaster Barnstormers baseball game, and Special Olympics Bocce Champion Josh Stranix and the Masonic Village Bocce Club taught the girls the finer points of the sport. They also designed and built a “miniature golf course” for the week, and everyone enjoyed daily swimming.

For the annual field trip, the group boarded an early morning bus and headed to Annapolis, Md., where they were treated to a very impressive “Women of Influence” guided tour of the city, a visit to the Navy Academy, lunch on a boat cruise and a very special appearance by Maryland’s Governor Martin O’Malley (photo on bottom right).

JDU – Job’s Daughters University – teaching our members life skills as they bloom into young ladies, lead with strength and determination and soar into adulthood, as well-rounded and confident young women.

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION 25

November 2012

Goals Selected & Achievements Earned

The 2012 Pennsylvania DeMolay Key Man Conference, held the week of Aug. 5-11 at the Masonic Conference Center-Patton Campus, offered some exciting new features and an emphasis on goal setting and achieving.

Each of the 79 young men who attended the conference set specific goals for their actions during the week, such as learning a new ritual part, creating a term plan and planning a membership recruitment event for their home chapter. They also set a number of personal goals for themselves, including learning time management skills, how to interview for a job, enhancing public speaking skills and many other individual achievements.

This evolution of the Key Man program yielded a number of impressive successes with the completion of 158 lessons of the DeMolay Leadership Correspondence Course and the earning of 28 Lamps of Knowledge for the completion of all five tests. Additionally, 21 members memorized one or more of their obligations; 71 new ritual parts were memorized; and 14 Representative DeMolay Awards were earned by those who managed to complete a 32-page self-evaluation form.

The members and advisors also had an opportunity to meet with DeMolay International Grand Master Gregory Chiles, from Indiana.

Bro. Chiles held an informative town hall meeting to discuss various policies and projects of DeMolay International and participated in a candid question and answer session with the participants.

Some of the best memories from the weeklong conference came from an afternoon visit and banana split social with the residents of the Masonic Health Care Center at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown on Thursday afternoon.

Key Man 2012 brought together DeMolays from 10 different jurisdictions, including the Canadian provinces of Alberta and Ontario.

Carl Blew, an 18-year-old Past Master

Councilor of Allentown Chapter, served as Youth Director, working with an adult staff of 26 volunteers headed by Director Steven Lancaster, a Past Executive Officer of Utah and Active Member of DeMolay International, and Michael Larkin, long-time Advisor for Pilgrim Chapter in Harrisburg.

26 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

Eliminate Real Estate Blunders

with Masonic Villages

We’ve all seen it. The house that rests quietly on the lot, picturesque with sculpted hedges and a shiny “For Sale” sign protruding from the front yard.

And just as our excitement piques, it comes crashing down with the first step into the house. When purchasing a home, dealbreakers range from water damage, scurrying critters or a lack of air conditioning to roofs, foundations and plumbing that have seen better days.

Thankfully, Masonic Villages offers an entirely different scenario. With maintenancefree living, residents throw aside the hassles of home upkeep and always know what to expect.

No matter what cottage/villa, apartment or suite you choose, the beauty of each home’s exterior matches the interior’s classic style.

Total maintenance provided by dependable staff means you can enjoy your new surroundings and never again have to be tied down to the headaches of home ownership.

Furthermore, the days of moving boxes and simultaneously cleaning your new home have passed since Masonic Villages has your accommodation of choice in spotless condition prior to your arrival. On the rare occasions when you encounter a concern after moving in, relax in knowing our team members will resolve the issue with no hassles or additional charges to your monthly service fee.

REAL ESTATE TIPS With everything taken care of on the Masonic Villages’ end, moving to one of our communities means you can focus on selling your home.

The housing market shows evidence of ascension. According to an article in “The New York Times,” “Roughly six years after the housing market began its longest and deepest slide since the Great Depression, a growing number of experts and people who actually put money into housing believe the end has come.”1 The S.&P./Case-Shiller index showed that home sales began to rise in April for the first time in 2012. Even more encouraging, after adjusting the information to take into account seasonal sales trends, the index showed that price increases began as early as February. Home prices are rising, sales are increasing and construction of homes is gaining momentum.1 “The housing market is clearly superior this year compared with the past four years. ... Actual closings for existing-home sales have been notably higher since the beginning of the year, and we’re on track to see a 9 to 10 percent improvement in total sales for 2012,” Lawrence Yun, National Association of Realtors chief economist, said in a news release this summer.2 Now is a good time to begin planning a move. A few tips to get you started include:

your home for a move. Remember, others may treasure many of the items you no longer need, so consider donating them to a local charity.

1. Start downsizing now.

the buyer is willing to pay more than the original offer.

You’ll feel more at ease deciding whether to trash or treasure the expansive collection of odds and ends in your garage when you don’t have the added pressure of packing

2. Fix it.

Take care of minor repairs and routine maintenance so your home is in top-notch condition for buyers.

3. Select a good, reputable real estate agent whom you can trust and who will work for you.

Your home is special, so work closely with your real estate agent to ensure you share the same selling goals. Changing agents may be appropriate if you are dissatisfied with the results.

4. Prep and primp.

Ask your real estate agent what suggestions he or she has to get your home ready to sell.

5. Establish your “asking price.” realistically based upon your local real estate environment.

6. Participate in the sales process.

Tell your neighbors, family and friends. It may result in an unexpected sales referral.

7. Be willing to negotiate with the buyer. By doing so, you often find

8. Remain optimistic!

There is a family out there just waiting

MASONIC VILL AGES 27

November 2012

to fall in love with your home and create memories of their own.

“It was very easy to sell my home and move in here. I was fortunate that my home sold within two months,” Bro. Bob Dare, Chester Lodge No. 236, said. Bro. Dare moved into his brand new cottage at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown in November 2011, after living in his Brookhaven, Pa., home for 23 years. Earlier in 2011, Bro. Dare wasn’t really considering a move when he contacted Kelly Eakin, Marketing Manager in Elizabethtown.

Before his appointment in April, he learned from a Masonic publication that the Committee on Masonic Homes approved the construction of up to 100 new cottages in Elizabethtown.

Within the first 10 minutes of his meeting with Kelly, he asked about the cottages and realized that construction was completed on a first-come-first-served basis, meaning he wouldn’t need to apply to a waiting list. “I signed up then,” Bro. Dare concluded.

WE CAN HELP Annually, Masonic Villages helps more than 150 people move into their new retirement living residences throughout the state. While the specific moving services vary by location, the process has been created so you experience a smooth transition.

“[The marketing staff] was very helpful. Any questions I had, I just called,” Bro. Dare said. When he needed a temporary storage facility while awaiting his move to Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, he called the marketing department, which provided information about a local company to care for his household items. When he moved in, Bro. Harry McMullen, Brandywine Goddard Lodge No. 383, Coatesville, served as Bro. Dare’s welcome volunteer and showed him around the entire campus so he could familiarize himself with the community. “It all went well. I just love it here. The environment is nice and the friendly neighbors are great. … I told my sister, Carol, ‘it’s going to feel funny to have someone come in and clean my house.’” He paused.

“It took about five minutes before I thought, ‘Wow, this is nice!’”

When you call Masonic Villages, we pair you with a marketing staff person who will work with you from the time you start exploring the community to the day you move in, so you can confidently make decisions and find answers to all of your questions.

Even when you pick up a brochure, you’ll find helpful resources for selling your home and calculating costs. If you join a priority waiting list, we provide periodic updates about new projects and upcoming events so you’re in the know about your new neighborhood.

Each location offers a variety of payment options, which provide flexibility to fit your lifestyle. Once you’ve decided to move to a Masonic Village, we provide scale drawings for most accommodations to assist in placement of furniture, and you may schedule visits to your new home as many times as you wish.

Bro. Robert G. Boone Sr., P.M., P.D.D.G.M., Palestine-Roxborough Lodge No. 135, Philadelphia, and his wife, Barbara, moved to Masonic Village at Dallas in November 2011.

Bro. Boone and his brothers are the third of five generations of Masons in his family who have joined Palestine-Roxborough Lodge.

The Boones never considered retiring anywhere other than a Masonic Village. As an admissions counselor for the Masonic Villages for many years, Bro. Boone gained first-hand knowledge of the quality services and security provided by each community.

For the past 13 years, the Boones have lived in the Pocono Mountains, so they ultimately choose to retire at Masonic Village at Dallas.

“For us, the home was brand new, and we had the option to upgrade many areas to suit our tastes,” Bro. Boone said. “Since we have been here, we find the staff to be always friendly, receptive to our needs and have only confirmed that we made the right choice.”

During your move, maintenance staff provide an allotted time to help you hang pictures, light fixtures, fans and more. Each location has its own way of helping you become familiar with your new home – whether it’s a welcome program run by residents, tours of the local community, a directory providing local information and/or a meet and greet to get to know your neighbors. No matter which community you choose, rest assured that a monthly calendar will help you find events of interest, the nearby cities and towns offer a plethora of recreational opportunities and the state-wide “Village Voice” magazine will keep you up-to-date on Masonic Villages’ friends.

At Masonic Village at Dallas, the Boones particularly enjoy their options for nearby

shopping and dining. An abundance of cultural opportunities, such as concerts at various colleges, local performances and stage plays at various theaters; the nearby Casino with its harness racing; and the local arena

featuring sports games, performances and the circus, all keep the Boones busy.

“We feel we made the right choice of Villages, as this one fits our lifestyle and, because it is a smaller community, we feel people know each other and are very supportive,” Barbara said.

“The amenities they offer fit more into our lifestyle at the present time,” Bro. Boone added.

PERSONALITY COUNTS While maintenance-free living is common to all Masonic Village campuses, each community has a personality of its own and something unique to offer. Take time to explore which community best fits your lifestyle: Masonic Village at Dallas provides retirement living apartments and villas with a golf course in your backyard among the Endless Mountains Region. As a community partner, Masonic Village at Dallas’ amenities range from the Irem Clubhouse Restaurant and Pub on campus to a host of wellness, social, recreational and cultural opportunities extended by neighboring Misericordia University. Nearby Wilkes-Barre and partnerships with healthcare providers ensure your needs are always met. Select villas

28 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

are available immediately, and if you’re not quite ready for a new address, consider signing up for the apartment waiting list.

Contact: 866-851-4243 Masonic Village at Elizabethtown is located on 1,400 acres of Lancaster County farmland where residents always have a social event to attend, hobby to pursue, workout to do or trip to take (if they so desire). This campus offers an immense number of opportunities and options, including retirement living cottages, apartments, suites, studios and rental options on select accommodations. The adjacent train station provides easy access to local cities without the hassle of driving. Healthcare and home care services are available on site, ensuring peace of mind for the future. A few new cottages and apartments are available now!

Contact: 800-676-6452 Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill gives you the tools to live vibrantly among friends with an

in-house bowling alley, computer lab, wellness center, wood shop, putting green and much more. When residing in elegant apartments just 30 minutes from Philadelphia, you can spend the day exploring the city’s shopping, cultural and historic sites and return home to the safety and beauty of the suburbs. Ask how you can be one of the first to move into Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill’s brand new apartments, planned to open in early 2014. Lock in the 2012 rate, and experience security for your finances and future.

Contact: 610-828-5760 Masonic Village at Sewickley has been compared to living on a cruise ship. Your needs come first, and you experience a carefree lifestyle that allows you to cast away the concerns of the world and explore new opportunities. Enjoy a dynamic life with more than 60 acres of amenities. Just 10 miles away, Pittsburgh’s cultural, recreational and educational opportunities await with the

assurance that you can return home to the safety and serenity of the suburbs. As a Lifecare community, Masonic Village at Sewickley preserves your nest egg by providing access to healthcare services without changing the monthly fee structure.

Contact: 866-872-0664 Citations: 1Appelbaum, Binyamin. “Housing Market Sending Signals It Is Recovering.” The New York Times. The New York Times, 28 June 2012. Web. 13 Sept. 2012. 2National Association of Realtors. Washington. “Pending Home Sales Up in May, Continue Pattern of Strong Annual Gains.” www.realtor.org. National Association of Realtors, 27 June 2012. Web. 13 Sept. 2012.

The perfect gift for those on your list who are hard to shop for or don’t live nearby…

Beautiful gift baskets and gift boxes filled with local PA products and Masonic Village-grown apples!

Easy online ordering at www.MVFarmmarket.com We ship to anywhere in the USA

To request a free catalog by mail: Call 717-361-4520 or email farmmarket@masonicvillagespa.org Hours: Mon.-Sat. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. through Christmas Eve Winter hours after Christmas: Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Masonic Village History Books REDUCED! NOW $20 A Great Holiday Gift!

MasonicVillage FARM MARKET

Follow Us on Facebook for up to date information

MASONIC VILL AGES 29

November 2012

Our Masonic Families Need Your Support to Continue Services for Adults with Special Needs The Bleiler Caring Cottage on the campus of the Masonic Village in Elizabethtown is home to eight individuals with intellectual developmental disabilities, and has been a part of the Masonic Village community since 1998.

The residents of the Bleiler Caring Cottage range from 42 to 65 years of age. Each of the residents has a tie to the Masonic community.

Three gentlemen are Masonic brethren and the other five individuals are the sons or daughters of Pennsylvania Masons.

The Bleiler Caring Cottage has allowed families to move into the Masonic Village together and to maintain a close family dynamic while at the same time experiencing independence and autonomy, which is the current situation for three residents. Two residents originally moved to the campus alongside their parents, but their parents have since passed away, and

three individuals have family members living in the surrounding community.

Eighty percent of the residents in the Bleiler Caring Cottage receive state funding.

This year, the state budget experienced a 20 percent cut in funding for people with intellectual developmental disabilities. This translates into a significant reduction of monetary support available to the residents of the Bleiler Caring Cottage – support in which there is already significant competition. When public funding is cut, providers, such as the Masonic Village’s Bleiler Caring Cottage, cannot rely on other revenue streams like insurance or private pay.

This means that in order to continue to provide top quality services, we must seek the support of generous donors. If you would like to help, please contact the Office of Gift Planning toll-free at 800-599-6454. Thank you!

Honoring Our Veterans

A memorial to each soldier who has died in combat since 9/11, the “Massing of the Colors,” will be display in the Veterans Grove of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown from Nov. 5 - Nov. 14. The opening ceremony will be held on Nov. 5 at 1:30 p.m. in the Veterans Grove (rain location will be the Grand Lodge Hall Assembly Room). The public is invited to walk through and view the 6,598-flag display at their leisure, which will be lit for nighttime viewing. On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, a joint Veterans Day worship service will be held, and a program will be held in the Brossman Ballroom at 1:30 p.m.

Masonic Village residents and others are welcome to volunteer to plant the flags on Nov. 3 and to remove them after the closing ceremony scheduled for Nov. 14 at 1:30 p.m. If you are interested, contact Liz Grosh at 717-367-1121, ext. 39930.

The “Massing of the Colors” is a memorial created by the National Sojourners - Harrisburg Chapter No. 76. The National Sojourners are a Masonic organization of military members which aims to foster appreciation of the American heritage of freedom of life, liberty, religion and free expression. Funds for the flags came from donations and a private grant.

30 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

Autumn Day 2012 The Masonic Village at Elizabethtownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual open house, held Sept. 22, brought thousands of visitors to the campus.

The festivities included food, musical groups and childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities. A blood drive was held; staff conducted tours of the campus, including the Formal Gardens and brand new model expansion cottage; the Model Railroad Club was open for visitors; several classic cars were on display; and stands for various Masonic bodies and youth groups featured information, activities and unique hand-made wares to purchase. Thanks to all who attended, visited our residents and shared a special day of camaraderie!

MASONIC VILL AGES 31

November 2012

Qty. Capital Need Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill 32 Televisions 1 Flat-screen TV and Wii system Dutch Apple Dinner theater outing Spirit of Philadelphia lunch cruise outing Harvest Ball event 1 Wind Jammer machine 1 Sit-to-stand lift, power base Broadway shows with transportation outing 1 NuStep machine 1 Van with lift Masonic Village at Warminster 7 Wheelchairs 1 Chair scale 1 Stereo sound system for dining room Masonic Village at Sewickley 1 Photosmart compact printer with extra cartridges 1 Dusty Strings Ravena harp 2 Outdoor tents (size 20 x 20) 1 ARJO sit-to-stand lift 1 ARJO Maxi lift Occupancy sensors for apartment hallway Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Massages or Healing Touch for pain 48 Wireless headphones for TV 20 Christmas Trees for Festival of Lights 1 Xbox 360 Kinect Bundle 4 Merry walkers 3 Blanket warmers 1 Wii game system with games like golf, fishing 10 Horticulture gardens - raised 14 Thermometers 1 Electric lift recliner 87 APM2 mattresses 80 x 35 1 Scale for common area 15 Wheelchairs - specialty w/customized 1 Camel lifting device system 10 Massage chairs - heated 1 Tran or Peddle carts (or motorized) 2 Keyboards - digital 1 Portable sound system for resident chorus group 1 Life Fitness recumbent bike 1 Tonopen 1 Vital sign machine 1 Golf cart with weather cover 8 Lifts (full) - includes estimated shipping 1 MVTV editing equipment 1 SciFit 1 NuStep 1 Disc golf course 1 Treadmill for Rehab Department

Cost per Item $400 $1,229 $1,500 $1,950 $2,500 $3,000 $3,500 $3,700 $6,000 $45,000 $275 $1,000 $1,500 $250 $1,500 $1,800 $4,100 $7,400 $20,000 $65 $80 $135 $300 $350 $400 $500 $500-$1,000 $650 $1,000 $1,200 $1,400 $1,500 $1,800 $2,000 $2,000 $2,500 $2,502 $2,532 $3,000 $3,200 $3,500 $3,700 $4,000 $4,645 $6,332 $10,000 $10,200

MASONIC VILLAGESâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

2012

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 printing of the August issue: Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Family of Doris M. Dobbins: Sell Chapel music Family of Irwin and Merial Brenner: Scooter Bro. Raymond T. George, Anne K. Gratz and Bro. Dayton and Barbara Holmes: Digital pianos Bro. Jeffrey and Nancy Hoyt: Wheelchairs Bro. Carl K. Hutchison: Wheelchairs Shirley M. Jones: Wireless headphones Helen A. Stone: Thermometers Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill Anonymous: TVs Grand Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Charity Golf Tournament - East: TVs Masonic Village at Warminster Williamson Corinthian Lodge No. 368: Dining Room furniture There is an all-inclusive wish list posted on the Masonic Charities website at MasonicCharitiesPA.org, or feel free to contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454 Please note that if funds donated for any item listed are over subscribed, the funds will be used for additional wish list items or needs in the same service area.

Make Your Wish Your Will Have you ever thought about the legacy you will leave? You can make a significant difference by remembering one or more of our Masonic Charities in your Will.

Leaving a bequest to the Masonic Charities is easy to set up and change by using a codicil to amend your Will. You will still have control over your current assets and can transfer cash, securities, retirement accounts and even real estate through your will.

You can designate any specific charity or offer unrestricted support for the area of greatest need. Your estate will also benefit from estate tax savings, as all bequests are tax deductible. You can also become a member of our Franklin Legacy Society or the Masonic Children’s Home Centennial Society. Benefits of legacy society membership include

receiving regular updates on the charity of your choice and an invitation to the annual donor dinner.

Please contact your local gift planner to make sure that the language you use will best accomplish your wishes. You may also contact us for more information or to notify us of your intention to support a Masonic charity. All inquiries are confidential.

Contact Us:

Eastern PA Region: Joyce Michelfelder, 610-825-6100, ext. 1348 Central PA Region: Jim Heckman, 800-599-6454 Western PA Region: Jane Binley, 412-741-1400, ext. 3011 Out of State: Alvin Blitz, 800-599-6454

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

REGISTRATION IN THE ABOVE STATES DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION OF MASONIC CHARITIES BY THE STATE.