Freemason - November 2015 by Masonic Villages

The Pennsylvania

NOVEMBER 2015 edition vol. LxII no. 4

Remembering R.W. Past Grand Master

James L. Ernette 1945 - 2015

THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON® VOL. LXII, NOVEMBER 2015, NO. 4

Inside this Issue...

EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman Robert J. Bateman, R.W.G.M. Raymond T. Dietz, R.W.D.G.M. S. Eugene Herritt, R.W.S.G.W. Thomas Gamon, IV, R.W.J.G.W. Jeffrey W. Coy, R.W.G.T. Mark A. Haines, R.W.G.S. EDITORIAL STAFF Tina L. Raybold - Production Coordinator Rich Johnson - Graphic Designer Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation Staff Masonic Library & Museum of Pennsylvania Staff (Publication No. USPS 426-140) November 2015 Issue of The Pennsylvania Freemason ® Published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Articles and photographs to be considered for publication should be sent with local Masonic authority to the address above, to the attention of The Pennsylvania Freemason ® or emailed to pafreemason@ masonicvillages.org. Except by special arrangement, all articles, photographs and artwork become the property of the Grand Lodge. Published by the Masonic Villages, owned and operated by the Grand Lodge of F. & A. M. of Pennsylvania, as a means of soliciting the physical and financial support of the members, their families and the public in general. Periodical postage is paid at Elizabethtown, Pa., and additional mailing offices. We appreciate the many submissions we receive for consideration. We apologize, but due to space constraints we are not able to publish every submission we receive.

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP (Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United States Code) November 1, 2015, The Pennsylvania Freemason ®, published quarterly by the Masonic Villages, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Publishers: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Editor: Robert J. Bateman. Owner: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Known bondholders: none. No advertising handled. Free distribution averages 124,000 each quarter. I certify that the statements made by me are correct and complete.

3 Grand Lodge

• Lodge of Research Meeting Slated • December Quarterly Communication • Grand Master’s Message • Annual Grand Communication • Change for the Troops

11 Lodge and District

• Ways to Support Our Masonic Charities • Lodge & District Events • Honoring Our First Responders • Masonic Blood & Organ Donor Club • Random Acts of Kindness & Community Service Initiatives • Remembering James L. Ernette, R.W.P.G.M. • Congratulations to ...

21 Freemason

• Supporters Sought for Advanced Educational Scholarship Fund • Masonic Book Review • Grand Master Hosts Temple Tours • Masonic Library & Museum Achievements

24 PA Masonic Youth Foundation

• Learn What Our PA DeMolay, Job’s Daughters and Rainbow Girls Have Been Up to! • Masonic Scholarships Make an Impact on Students

28 Masonic Villages

• Autumn Day • Sewickley Community Festival • 3 Brethren, 3 States, 3 Awards, 1 Community • Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill Datestone Set • “Fall” in Love with Masonic Villages! • Wish List Items

Robert J. Bateman, Editor Mailing address changes

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

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

Subscribe to the online edition!

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

Earlier this year, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania was pleased to launch its official Facebook page. You can “like” us and keep up to date with all of our happenings at

www.facebook.com/pagrandlodge Make sure you check the page out on Wednesday, Dec. 2, as we will be offering live coverage from the Grand Lodge Quarterly Communication in Philadelphia, which includes the election of new Grand Lodge Officers! As we move into a new Masonic year, we will be looking to post updates about all of the great happenings in our local lodges, as well as information regarding Grand Lodge events. Keep your eye on the Facebook page, as well as here in “The Pennsylvania Freemason,” for more information regarding how to submit your content!

Lodge of Research Meeting Slated The Pennsylvania Lodge of Research will meet on Saturday, Dec. 12, at 2 p.m., at the Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center, 3579 Masonic Way, Pittsburgh. Presenters will include Illustrious Bro. S. Brent Morris, renowned Masonic scholar and author, and Bro. Chris Rodkey, who will provide an excerpt from his upcoming book, “Freemasonry and the Death of God.”

All Master Masons are invited to attend the meeting at no charge.

December Quarterly Communication To the Members of the Grand Lodge: You are hereby requested to attend the December Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania to be held at 10 a.m., on Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2015, at the Masonic Temple, 1 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA, at which the Grand Lodge Officers and Masonic Villages Board of Directors will be elected. You are also hereby requested to attend the Annual Grand Open Communication of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA, on Monday, Dec. 28, 2015, at 10 a.m., at which the Grand Lodge Officers will be installed. By Order of the R.W. Grand Master.

Mark A. Haines Mark A. Haines R.W. Grand Secretary

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November 2015

Dear Brethren, It has been a great honor for me to serve as Grand Master of Freemasonry in Pennsylvania. I would like to thank all of you for making my term as Grand Master successful and memorable. Through the cooperation and support from our brethren and their ladies, I have seen my dreams for this fraternity come to fruition. We must always remember that we are at our best when we keep “Family and Masonry – United Together as One.”

Sincerely and fraternally,

Robert J. Bateman R.W. Grand Master

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Spouses, Family & Friends are invited to attend all events along with you!

at the

Annual Grand Communication Monday, Dec. 28, 2015

David L. Lawrence Convention Center

Pittsburgh, PA

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November 2015

Chris Jamison

Finalist on NBC’s “The Voice” Chris Jamison is an American singer-songwriter best known for his appearance in season 7 of NBC’s reality TV singing competition “The Voice” on Adam Levine’s team. Scan the QR code to experience Chris Jamison!

10:00 a.m. Anticipated OPEN Installation of

Raymond T. Dietz as Right Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania A FREE LUNCHEON will follow the OPEN installation (Reservations Requested)

5:30 p.m.

Cash Bar Reception

6:30 p.m. Banquet Dinner with Entertainment by Singer-Songwriter Chris Jamison 2014 Finalist on “The Voice” Tickets $90 per person (Advance Tickets Required)

For tickets and reservations, please contact:

Limited Seats Still Available

Your District Deputy Grand Master or Bro. David Morgans by phone at: 412-728-6533 or email at: dwmorgans@gmail.com. Reservations are due by Nov. 15, 2015.

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CHANGE FOR THE TROOPS

Showering Military Parents with Support The room was filled with tears of joy and smiles of graciousness. While these couples sacrifice so much for their country, they don’t expect anything in return. They accept the gifts, however, because they are for their soon-to-be sons and daughters. While they would never ask for handouts, they are in need … and deserving! Through Change for the Troops, 11 military families (10 with the National Guard and

one with the Army) were recently blessed with everything they need to take care of their expected bundles of joy. In partnership with the March of Dimes, Pennsylvania Masons provided toys, strollers, car seats, baby monitors, diapers toys, clothing, bath products and gift cards, among other necessities, as well as raffle prizes like handknitted baby blankets, at the baby shower held Sept. 21 the 171st Air Refueling Wing, at the Pittsburgh Air National Guard Station. In an interview with KDKA news, R.W. Deputy Grand Master Raymond T. Dietz said, “Not all of our military personnel and their families are fortunate to be able to afford the things that they need to start a family, to raise a family, such as baby monitors, formula, diapers and so forth. We are pleased, as Pennsylvania Masons, to be able to be there and support our military and their spouses while they are serving and giving us freedom in our country.” In addition to the gifts, the expecting parents receive education. Matt Dalrymple, 171st AW, Director of Psychological Health, presented on stress management during pregnancy. The March of Dimes discussed what moms can expect during their pregnancy and what resources are available to them through the organization. Dr. Jerry Carrino, of the March of Dimes, and Tim Murphy, Vice President and General Manager from Philips New Business SolutionsHealthcare, also presented during the shower. Philips had already sponsored some of the gifts being given at the baby showers, but after speaking with Col. and Bro. Harris Brooks, the company agreed to

November 2015

co-sponsor the September event and an additional event at Joint Base Maguire-Dix-Lakehurst. By sharing the expense with Philips, Change for the Troops will help 30 additional military families with no additional expense to the program. Lenny McAllister, from station KDKA in Pittsburgh, emceed the event. A talk show host and a political analyst, he was so impressed with Pennsylvania Masons and what we do for military families, he couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop blessing and thanking those present. Col. Greg Perez, Base Commander and Commander of the 171st Air Refueling Wing at the Air National Guard Station, Coraopolis, who was very involved in working with the March of Dimes and Pennsylvania Masons to set up and host the event, also could not express his thanks enough on behalf of himself and the airmen. One mom-to-be was extremely emotional, as her husband is leaving the Pennsylvania National Guard to enter active duty with the U.S. Army paratroopers as a sniper. They are moving to Ft. Bragg, N.C. As she was interviewed by KDKA TV, she continually thanked Pennsylvania Masons and cried tears of appreciation (shown above, right). The March of Dimes has been able to hold baby showers all over the country over the last year because of the original program started by Pennsylvania Masons six years ago. Companies who have heard about what Pennsylvania Masons are doing for local military

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families have approached the March of Dimes to fund showers in their immediate markets across the nation. Between our support for military members and veterans with disabilities at Horsham Air National Guard Station and the military baby showers, Pennsylvania Masons have built a strong foundation of support from our Pennsylvania military. Many new brethren have joined Freemasonry through the Change for the Troops program and the visibility it brings to the goodwill efforts of Pennsylvania Masons.

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Day of Giving Will Stretch Your Contributions to the Masonic Children’s Home

The Masonic Children’s Home is participating in the Extraordinary Give on Friday, Nov. 20. On that day, every dollar donated will be stretched by $250,000 from the Lancaster County Community Foundation, presenting sponsors Rodgers & Associates and other generous supporters. Additional prizes of $50,000 will be awarded to charities that reach certain milestones. Be sure to “Like” the Masonic Children’s Home on Facebook or visit www.masonicchildrenshome.org for direct links to give on this special day and for updates on the campaign and the youth at our children’s home.

Holiday Shopping? Give Two Gifts for the Price of One! If you plan to do some online shopping this holiday season, why not support our Masonic Charities with your purchases, at no additional cost to you? A gift for a loved one, a gift for a Masonic charity!

Here’s how it works. When you shop at AmazonSmile, Amazon will donate 0.5% of the purchase price to the Masonic charity of your choice. Simply bookmark one of the following links so all of your eligible purchases will benefit your favorite Masonic charity every time you shop:

Masonic Charities Fund: http://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-2720910 Masonic Villages: http://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-0846955 Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation: http://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-2188997 Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania: http://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-2608317

Lodge in the Woods 2015 Draws Hundreds On Sept. 16, the 1st Masonic District held its biennial “Lodge in the Woods” event at Camp Mack Scout Reservation. R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman was proud to present three Daniel Carter Beard Awards, eight Master Builder Awards and one Grand Master’s Award. Approximately 300 brethren in attendance enjoyed a steak dinner and a picture perfect evening meeting under the stars. The Worshipful Masters of the 10 District 1 lodges filled the officers’ chairs to conduct the meeting.

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LODGE AND DISTRICT 11

Honoring Our First Responders Lodges across the state dedicated programming during the month of May to honoring and celebrating our first responders, who put their lives on the line daily to ensure our safety. The following articles feature ways in which brethren recognized these brave heroes.

Making Wishes Come True On First Responders Night at Mitchell Lodge No. 206, Jenkintown, Whitemash Volunteer Ambulance personnel gave a presentation on how they do what they do for people in need, including providing transport for residents at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill. The ambulance crew indicated they wished they could afford an EZ-Glide Stair Chair, which costs about $3,000, to help them transport people up and down steps. The brethren of Mitchell Lodge made that wish come true when they delivered the chair to the station house on July 12, as shown below.

Thanking First Responders North Star Lodge No. 241, Warren; and Stillwater Lodge No. 547 and Joseph Warren Lodge No. 726, both of Youngsville, held a picnic on June 6 at Wilder Field to honor first responders. Approximately 35 first responders from four fire departments and two police departments attended, along with their families (see photo top right). Each department brought equipment and showed the gathering more about what they do. The formal First Responder Program followed the lunch, and the first responders received the Grand Master’s pin.

Appreciation Dinner & Party follow Charity Ride On Aug. 15, Greater Johnstown Lodge No. 538 and Cambria Lodge No. 278, Johnstown, hosted the second annual First Responders Appreciation Dinner and party at the Johnstown Masonic Temple. Approximately 150 area first responders attended and received the First Responder’s Pin. Many of the recipients had participated in the annual Conemaugh Med Star Charity Motorcycle Ride held earlier in the day to benefit the family of a local paramedic who was killed while assisting at the scene of an accident. The PA Widows Sons Masonic Riders supported both the dinner and helped to organize the benefit motorcycle event. “We wanted to show the community how first responders should be recognized and that their duties don’t go unrecognized,” Bro. Christopher Kantz, Greater Johnstown Lodge No. 538, who helped organize the event, told WJAC-TV News. Proceeds from the ride went toward the Janice Keen Livingston Memorial Park, which is planned for the west end of Johnstown to honor those who have dedicated their lives to serving the fire and police departments and EMS.

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Warren Independence Day Parade

North Star Lodge No. 241, Warren, participated in the Warren Independence Day parade in a fine display of Freemasonry for the spectators. “I’m proud to announce the 4th of July was a great success,” said Bro. Ryan Knopf, W.M. “We presented approximately 75 veterans and first responders with the Grand Master’s gift pins along the parade route. We also fielded questions from spectators about our fraternity.” Bro. C. Donald Nelson, P.D.D.G.M.-56, driving the lodge float with several brethren on board.

Masonic Blood And Organ Donor Club

Bro. Bill Wahlstein, Barger Lodge No. 325 and Hamilton Day Lodge No. 814, both of Stroudsburg, has held multiple successful blood drives in his Blood Count costume. You’re Saving Lives! Thanks to the support from District Deputy Grand Masters, Worshipful Masters and Blood Donor chairmen, the Blood and Organ Donor Club collected over 4,000 units of blood in 2014. Since each unit can save up to three lives, we potentially saved 12,000 lives! Lodge Involvement is Key Ossea Lodge No. 317, Wellsboro, has an energetic Blood Donor Program. The lodge’s next blood drive will yield its 1,200th unit of blood, and there is a nice

recognition planned for the 1,200th donor. A Fraternal Blood Feud has erupted between lodge in Altoona and Hollidaysburg. Under the guidance of Bro. Larry Bilotto, a member built a trophy that is given to the lodge with the highest contributed number of drawn blood units. The lodge keeps the trophy in its lodge hall until the next drive. See photo bottom left. We Need Your Support Once a year, the Blood Club sends out membership cards along with its newsletter and a request for voluntary donations from Blood Club members. The club operates from generous donations from lodges, districts and individuals; this is its only source of income. Pick a Prime Location Two years ago, the Blood Club changed some of its blood collection site rules. Since some lodges couldn’t host a drive in their buildings, they can now be held in firehouses, American Legion halls, houses of worship and other locations, upon request. Hosting these events in our communities allows the public to see our goodwill efforts. Blood Drives Benefit Charities Blood Drive charity donations have continued to be very successful. The club pays $10 per unit of collected blood at drives to 501(c)(3) Masonic Charities. With today’s economy, many lodges find it difficult to make donations to the Masonic Charities, but hosting blood drives has enabled them to make generous donations through their efforts. Everybody wins! Be An Organ Donor The Blood Club also informs the Craft about how to give the gift of life. By signing an Organ Donation form today and having your Driver’s License marked, “Organ Donor,” you can selflessly pass life into patients with failed organs. Masonic Blood and Organ Donor Club members are available to attend lodge meetings, upon invitation, to share additional information with brethren and to advise lodges on how to achieve successful outcomes.

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Random Acts of Kindness & Community Service Initiatives

Masonic lodges continue to make an impact in their communities through large scale events and small acts of kindness. Members are proudly representing the Masonic fraternity and what is stands for, while enhancing their own well-being. Making the Grade The 30th Masonic District sponsored the third annual Youth Academic Challenge, an award program for youth ages 12 to 14 who are the children, grandchildren or great-grandchildren of a member of one of the district’s nine lodges. Each child had to earn all As or Bs on their last and final report cards for the past school year to earn a day of fun, food and excitement. This year, 12 students qualified for the achievement award. On Sunday, Aug. 9, the awardees were taken by a luxury bus and treated to a shopping spree at South Hills Village mall and dinner at Houlihan’s restaurant.

unit director at Mt. Olivet Boys & Girls Club – Ricketts Center, for use during their summer camp and field trip activities. Bro. Watson alerted the lodge to the club’s need. The Ricketts Center is only a few blocks away from Stichter Lodge, and some members took part in its recreational activities when they were younger. The radios were purchased through Stichter Lodge’s Charity Fund/Committee.

l-r: Dennis Shaffer, W.M., Stichter Lodge No. 254; Janice Burgess, Mt. Olivet Boys and Girls Club; and Bro. Bobby Watson, Los Angeles Harbor Masonic Lodge No. 332 The Sounds of Summer Bro. Dennis Shaffer, W.M., Stichter Lodge No. 254, Pottstown, and Bro. Bobby Watson, Los Angeles Harbor Masonic Lodge No. 332, San Pedro, Calif., presented six two-way radios to Janice Burgess,

CHIPing In The 26th Masonic District held a Child Identification Program on Aug. 8 in Waymart with 109 children participating. Sponsored by Lodge of the Craft/Westminster No. 433, New Castle, and Mahoning New Castle Lodge No. 243, members from William H. Miller Lodge

14 LODGE AND DISTRICT No. 769, Butler; Butler Lodge No. 272; Harmony Lodge No. 429, Zelienople; Victory Lodge No. 694, Butler; Kedron Lodge No. 389, West Middlesex; Coral Gables Lodge No. 260, Florida; and New Castle Rainbow Girls Assembly No. 1 volunteered their time at the event. Police officers and Bros. Shawn Hill and Bob Sipe, both from Lodge of the Craft/Westminster Lodge No. 433, fingerprinted the children. Organizers included Bros. Allen B. Housholder, P.M., and Michael L. Patterson, P.M., both members of Harmony Lodge No. 429 and co-chairmen of the 26th District’s Masonic Education Program; Scott L. Maxwell, P.M., Mahoning New Castle Lodge No. 243 and Principal of the 26th District’s School of Instruction; James J. Knights, Harmony Lodge No. 429 and Chairman of the 26th District’s Publicity and Photography; Carl J. Wagner W.M., Butler Lodge No. 272 and Chairman of the 26th District’s Youth Program; and Ed A. Newcaster, P.M., William H. Miller Lodge No. 769, Butler, and Chairman of the 26th District’s CHIP Program.

Bro. Shawn Hill, Lodge of the Craft/Westminster Lodge No. 433, New Castle, CHIPs a young girl. Community Cleanup As part of the city of Corry’s sixth annual cleanup day, Corry Lodge No. 365 coordinated a group of 75 people who canvassed the city on April 25. Temperatures in the upper 30s greeted volunteers as the cleanup began at 8 a.m. Brethren set up a registration table and handed out gloves, safety vests, garbage bags and a master map of the city pointing out which areas needed attention. “We like doing anything for the public,” Bro. Bill Hill, W.M., said. “Helping Corry is always a worthy thing to do.” About a dozen members of Corry Cub Scout Pack 79 joined the effort. Bro. Tim Joncas, Chaplain; his son, Logan; and their friend, Sammy, spent about five hours picking up trash and filled 15 garbage

Pennsylvania Freemason

bags along with a five-gallon pail.

Helpful Fill Up Prior to a stated meeting of Chester Lodge No. 236, Bro. Tracy Price was dropping off refreshments before the members arrived when he came across an SUV outside of the building that had run out of gas. A husband, wife, several young children and a mother-in-law were in the car with their weekly grocery order. The mother of the small children asked for a ride to the nearest gas station, and Bro. Price offered to take her while the family waited. When they arrived back at the SUV, her family was not there. Bro. Ed McQuiston had asked them all to come inside out of the 95-degree heat. He provided them with cold bottled water and kept them calm and safe while the mother purchased fuel for their car. “They thanked us for our assistance and thanked us for the brief education about Freemasonry, as they had never heard of our fraternity,” Bro. Price said. Books for Bikes J. Simpson Africa Lodge No. 628, Stroudsburg, organized its second annual “Books for Bikes” to encourage students from two local elementary schools to develop a love for reading. The incentive was a new bike and helmet (one girl’s and one boy’s for each school). In May, second graders from Clearview and B.F. Morey elementary schools were asked to read a book and complete a one-page report about the characters and setting. They were also challenged to include two new words they learned and provide their definitions. For every three book reports a student completed, his or her name was entered once into a raffle for a chance to win a bike. There was no limit to the number of entries per student. Overall, more than 3,120 pages were read among the 25 participants at the two schools. At a year-end awards ceremony including parents, teachers and peers from all grades, the participants were recognized with a certificate embossed with the official lodge seal and the two winners from each school were announced. “To see the look on the participants’ faces when their names were read off, it’s priceless and worth every penny,” Bro. Brian Massie, W.M., said.

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l-r: Bros. Andrew Beauchamp, Junior Master of Ceremonies; Terry Hill, Chaplain; Chris Sierra, Senior Master of Ceremonies; and Brian W. Massie, W.M., P.M., shown with participants from B.F. Morey Elementary School and Principal Cynthia Muffley.

LODGE AND DISTRICT 15 Ride for Destiny On July 18, Masonic Motorcycle Club International – Chapter 51 participated in the third annual Gracie’s Benefit Ride in southern Huntingdon County along with 50 motorcycles and 80 riders and passengers. After the ride, Chapter 51 presented a monetary gift of love and support in the amount of $300. This year’s ride was organized to assist 16-year-old Destiny Devlin, who is fighting a very rare form of cancer that developed following a bone marrow transplant. Destiny, whose father is Bro. Duane C. Hardy, Sr., Cromwell Lodge No. 572, Orbisonia, was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2011 and has endured several remissions and reoccurrences. Destiny is now traveling to Hershey Medical Center three times each week for treatment.

Spell Check Two teams of Masons participated in the Hooked on Books Corporate Spelling Bee on April 7 to raise money to purchase books for children across Erie County. The 24th District Team, made up of Bros. Mike Stafford and Dick Hiles, Tyrian-Commonwealth Lodge No. 362, Erie, and Steve Yovich, Eurkea Lodge No. 366, Union City, took third place. Also participating was a team from the York Rite. Car Show for a Cause Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551, Mount Joy, and Columbia Lodge No. 286, Wrightsville, held their annual Open House and Car Show on Aug. 16. The event raised $2,300 for the Mount Joy and Marietta Food Banks, and visitors were asked to donate non-perishable food items for the Columbia Food Bank. The Donegal Masonic Center hosted approximately 85 cars and motorcycles, with more than 75 visitors. Money was raised through an auction which included door prizes. Trophies were presented to chosen cars and motorcycles.

Aerial view of the open house and car show at the Donegal Masonic Center, Mount Joy

Front row, l-r: Lori Varner; Bros. Richard D. Doyle, P.M., and Richard P. Newman, Junior Master of Ceremonies, Cromwell Lodge No. 572; and R. Michael Rotz, P.M., Mount Zion Lodge No. 774 Back row, l-r: Lori Shoop; Bros. Bryan D. Shoop and Derick D. Doyle, Cromwell Lodge No. 572; Destiny Devlin; Bros. Jeffrey W. Henry and William C. Morgan, Mount Union Lodge No. 688; and Bro. Matthew R. Varner, Sr., W.M., Cromwell Lodge No. 572 Check for Charity The Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, Widow’s Sons Masonic Rider Association raised and presented a $6,000 check to R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman on Autumn Day to benefit the Masonic Children’s Home.

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LODGE AND DISTRICT 17

November 2015

James “Jay” Leslie Ernette

112th Grand Master of Pennsylvania, 1998 - 1999

“It is time that we take Masonic charity out of the lodge room and into the community and let our vitality be recognized. When good men are doing good things in our communities, other good men will want to be part of the action – to join those who work hand-in-hand helping their communities and those in need.” – Bro. Jay Ernette Bro. James “Jay” Ernette, 33°, went to be with the Great Architect of the Universe on Aug. 31, 2015. Born July 18, 1945, in Greensburg, Pa., he was a son of the late William C. Ernette Sr., and Dorothy R. (Longsdorf) Ernette. Educated in the Hempfield Area School District and Point Park College, Pittsburgh (1967), he was also a graduate of the Pennsylvania State Police Academy, Hershey (1967). Bro. Jay was a State Police Trooper from 1967-1984. He cofounded Unity Printing Co., Latrobe, in 1980, and served as its President until his retirement in 2013, leaving it in the capable hands of his daughter, Lisa. Bro. Jay is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Brenda E. (Smith) Ernette; a daughter, Lisa Renée, wife of Bro. G. Joseph Frederick; a granddaughter, Ashley, and a grandson, Cole Joseph; a brother, William C. Ernette Jr., of Las Vegas, Nev.; a sister, Carole A., and her husband, Bro. Richard Stemmler, of Latrobe; and his faithful dog, Max. An active community leader, Bro. Jay was a member of the Westmoreland County Law Enforcement Officers Association and Rotary. He served on the boards of the Central Westmoreland, Ligionier, Latrobe and East Suburban Chambers of Commerce and as a board member of the Latrobe Area Community Development Corp. He was a member of Latrobe United Methodist Church. Bro. Jay was made a Mason in Westmoreland Lodge No. 518, Greensburg, on June 21, 1974, went through the chairs and served as Worshipful Master in 1980. He was a member of the York and Scottish Rite bodies, as well as the Shrine, Tall Cedars and Royal Order of

Jesters and received the Legion of Honor of the Order of DeMolay. In Grand Lodge, Bro. Jay served as Senior Grand Deacon from 1982-1986 and District Deputy Grand Master for District 30 from 1987-1991. Elected Junior Grand Warden for 1992-1993, then serving as Senior Grand Warden and Deputy Grand Master, he became R.W. Grand Master in 1998. He was also a member of the Board of the Masonic Homes (Village) at Elizabethtown (Chairman 1998-1999), a Trustee of the Consolidated Fund, a member of the Committees on Landmarks, Finance, Youth Activities (Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation), Correspondence, Library and Museum, Fraternal Recognition and as an Administrator of the pension plan (Chairman 1994) and of the Boards of the Pennsylvania Masonic Foundation for the Prevention of Drug and Alcohol Abuse Among Children (President 1994), the Pennsylvania Masonic Foundation for Leadership and Management and the National Masonic Foundation for Children. Bro. Jay’s major programs included the Masonic Matching Charity Grants, the “Overture” leadership program, continuation of a multimedia center and classrooms at the Masonic Conference Center and the opening of the Brossman Pool at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. An avid Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers fan, Bro. Jay participated in the tradition of throwing out the first ball at Phillies-Pirates baseball games. His cheerful presence, especially at Masonic events, will be greatly missed.

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One Day Class Hosted in Historic Lodge

The 1st Masonic District Degree Team raised 10 candidates to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason with the help of 30 guides on June 24 at the old lodge room of Lodge No. 43, 5 West King Street, Lancaster. The meeting was attended by approximately 125 brothers. The “old lodge room” dates back to 1785 when Lodge No. 43 was first chartered by the Provincial Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and can be seen at www.firstmasonic.org. Seated, l-r: Bros. Nevin L. Post, Mount Lebanon Lodge No. 226, Lebanon; Carl I. Ross, Lamberton Lodge No. 476, Lancaster; John L. Shreiner, Ephrata Lodge No. 665; Robert T. Narkowski, Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551, Mount Joy; and Kenneth A. Brennen, Ephrata Lodge No. 665. Standing, l-r: Bros. Ronald Carson, W.M., Lamberton Lodge No. 476 and Principal of the School of Instruction; Josh Parmer, W.M., Lodge No. 43 and the conferring officer; Brandon Fowler, Ephrata Lodge No. 665; Wayne Millard, Lamberton Lodge No. 476; John R. Fritz, Ephrata Lodge No. 665; David D. Gerhart, Mount Lebanon Lodge No. 226; Joseph B. Walton, Lamberton Lodge No. 476; and Larry A. Derr, D.D.G.M.-1.

Celebrating 50 Years and Six Generations Bro. David M. Frees, Jr., celebrated his 50th anniversary of Masonic membership on Feb. 6 at his home in Phoenixville, when he received his Masonic Service Award from Bro. Timothy L. Pletcher, D.D.G.M.-40. Bro. Dave is a 4th generation Mason of Phoenix Lodge No. 75, Phoenixville, and was preceded by his father, Dave Sr., in 1948; his grandfather, George K. Frees; and great-grandfather, David MacFeat. Both of Bro. Dave Jr.’s sons, Dave III and Robb (5th generation) were in attendance, as well as two of his four grandsons (6th generation), all of whom are also members. l-r: Bros. Tyler Jordan Frees; Robb S. Frees; Anthony C. DiGirolomo, P.M., Secretary; Alexander Jacob Frees; David M. Frees, Jr. (front, center); Christopher James Wollter, P.M.; David M. Frees III; Timothy L. Pletcher, D.D.G.M.-40; Robert B. Frees, P.M., Treasurer; and David J. Welty, W.M.

LODGE AND DISTRICT 19

November 2015

On May 2, Districts 26, 27 and 53 held a One Day Class at the Scottish Rite Cathedral, New Castle, where 25 new members were raised.

State Troopers Raise Candidate On June 17, the Pennsylvania State Police Degree Team conferred a Third Degree on “one of their own,” Tpr. Ryan Lawrence, at Charles M. Howell Lodge No. 496, Millersville. The lodge room was almost filled to capacity with visiting brothers and guests who were impressed with the outstanding degree work. The Pennsylvania State Police Degree Team was formed during the 1940s by Bro. Corporal Thomas E. Eshelman in northeast Pennsylvania to raise Pennsylvania State Policemen to the sublime degree of a Master Mason. The team consisted of active and retired members of the Pennsylvania State Police who conferred the Master Mason’s degree in customary Masonic clothing. In 1994, Bros. Col. Glenn A. Walp, Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, and George H. Hohenshildt, R.W.P.G.M., granted permission for the degree team to confer the degree while wearing the Pennsylvania State Police uniform. Degree team members also wear a special apron which was designed in 1996 by Retired Sgt. Bro. Homer Jones, P.D.D.G.M., and approved by Bro. Edward O. Weisser, R.W.P.G.M. Today, the degree team is comprised of two distinct units, the traditional Northeast Unit, located in northeast Pennsylvania, and the Harrisburg Unit, which formed in 1995. Since 1974, the units have collectively raised over 100 law enforcement officers, including active and retired enlisted and commissioned officers of the Pennsylvania State Police and New Jersey State Police, as well as a number of local Pennsylvania police officers. On Aug. 22, 1998, the degree team conferred all three degrees upon Col. Paul J. Evanko, Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police; Lt. Col. Joseph H. Westcott, Deputy Commissioner of the

Pennsylvania State Police; and Tpr. Robert Soto when Bro. James L. Ernette, R.W.P.G.M., made them Masons at Sight. The mission of the degree team has always been to recognize with dignity their comrades in arms and to promote the ideals and goodwill that law enforcement and Freemasonry share.

First row, l-r: Bros. Larry A. Derr, D.D.G.M.-1; Tpr. Ryan Lawrence and Ret. Tpr. Walley Ditzler, P.M., conferring W.M., Charles M. Howell Lodge No. 496. Second row, l-r: Bros. Ret. Cpt. Phil Rickert, P.M., Union Lodge No. 324, Mifflintown; Ret. Tpr. Vaughn Schwalm, Susquehanna Lodge No. 364, Millersburg; Ret. Cpt. Bruce Gaston, P.M., Ephrata Lodge No. 665; Tpr. Keith Noll and Tpr. Chad Roberts, Mt. Lebanon Lodge No. 226, Lebanon; Lt. Richard Gibble, Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551, Mt. Joy; Cpt. William Foutz, Mount Olivet Lodge No. 704, Lebanon. Third row, l-r: Bros. Ret. Cpt. George Himmelright, White Rose Lodge No. 706, York, and Lodge No. 43, Lancaster; Ret. Lt. Doug Martin, Steelton-Swatara Lodge No. 775, Steelton; Ret. Cpt. Kevin Organtini, P.M., Mt. Lebanon Lodge No. 226 and Isaac Hiester Lodge No. 660, West Reading; Ret. Tpr. James Schlemmer, P.M., Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551; Ret. Col. Paul Evanko, Steelton-Swatara Lodge No. 775, Steelton; and Ret. Sgt. Serell Ulrich, P.M., William S. Snyder Lodge No. 756, Harrisburg.

Congratulations to…

20 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason

Mitchell Lodge No. 296, Jenkintown, constituted on Sept. 12, 1855, celebrates its 160th anniversary this year. The above photo was taken at the celebration. Other noteworthy events from 1855 included: • Pennsylvania State College was chartered as Farmers High School of Pa. It opened for students in 1859, became the PA Agricultural College in 1863 and is now known as “Penn State” – the first of the land grant colleges. • Gold was first used for filling teeth. • I.M. Singer patented the first sewing machine motor. • The first oil refinery was started by S. M. Kier in Pittsburgh. Lodges celebrating their 150th Anniversary: Elysburg Lodge No. 349, formed by the Dec. 27, 2008 merger of Catawissa Lodge No. 349, constituted Jan. 24, 1865, and Elysburg Lodge No. 414, constituted on Feb. 24, 1870 Oxford Lodge No. 353, constituted on June 15, 1865 Sylvania Lodge No. 354, Shickshinny, constituted on June 29, 1865 In the year that these three lodges were constituted: • Gen. Robert E. Lee surrendered to Gen. Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House, ending the Civil War on April 9. • On April 14, President Abraham Lincoln was shot by John Wilkes Booth while attending a theatrical performance at Ford’s Theater. He succumbed to his injuries, and Vice President Br. Andrew Johnson became President. • Bro. Andrew Gregg Curtin was Governor of Pennsylvania. • The U.S. Secret Service was founded. • The Thirteenth Amendment to abolish slavery was ratified. • Wild Bill Hickok shot Dave Tutt dead in the first true western showdown in Springfield, Mo. • Andrew Carnegie entered the steel business with Andrew Klopman. • The Stetson “10-gallon” hat was created by Bro. John B. Stetson. • Potato chips were introduced.

Youghiogheny Lodge No. 583, McKeesport, will celebrate its 125th Anniversary on Dec. 15 (constituted in 1890). Other important events of that year included: • The Sherman Antitrust Act was passed. • Idaho and Wyoming become the 43rd and 44th states, respectively. • The first Army-Navy game was played at West Point. • The first Tournament of Roses Parade was held in Pasadena, Calif. • Invented were: the mechanized shooting gallery by C.W. Parker of Abilene, Kan.; the corrugated cardboard box by Robert Gair; Ever Ready batteries, the first commercial dry cell batteries, by National Carbon Company; and punch-card processing (and modern computers) by Herman Hollerith, to record U.S. census statistics which enabled the Census Bureau to tabulate results in just six weeks. • The New York Phonograph Co. opened the first recording studio. • Founded were: The United Mine Workers of America, The Daughters of the American Revolution and the Colonial Dames. • Yosemite National Park and Sequoia National Park were created by an act of Congress. Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, (constituted Sept. 15, 1915), celebrates its 100th Anniversary. Other events of that year included: • Congress designated the U.S. Coast Guard (begun in 1790) as a military branch. • The first stop sign appeared in Detroit. • The Pennsylvania Railroad began electrified commuter rail service using overhead AC trolley wires for power. Seneca Lodge No. 805, Kittanning, will celebrate its 50th Anniversary on Dec. 11 (constituted in 1965).

November 2015

FREEMASON 21 At the 2015 Supreme Council Annual Meeting of the Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, in Indianapolis, Bro. Russell W. Baker, 33°, P.D.D.G.M., Howell Lodge No. 405, Honey Brook, was awarded the Medal of Honor. The Medal of Honor may be conferred by the Supreme Council or by the Sovereign Grand Commander upon any person, whether or not a member of the jurisdiction or a member of any Body of the Rite, in recognition of distinguished service to Freemasonry, country or humanity. Bro. Russell retired as Grand Almoner and as Deputy for Pennsylvania. R.W. Past Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon, 33°, succeeds him as Deputy for Pennsylvania.

Supporters Sought for Advanced Education Scholarship Fund

Virginia Migrala, Director of Children’s Services, recently announced that the Masonic Children’s Home has established an Advanced Education Scholarship Fund for graduates who attend college or trade school. The first major planned gift designated for the new fund has been disclosed by Bro. Howard Guest, WilliamsonCorinthian Lodge No. 368, Philadelphia, and his wife, Elizabeth, of Chambersburg, Pa. Bro. Howard recently toured the Masonic Children’s Home with Chief Gift Planning Officer Bro. Alvin Blitz, met some of the students and attended Youth Appreciation Day activities. “You could see that the Masonic Children’s Home had prepared them both academically and physically,” Bro. Howard said, “It was most pleasant and reassuring to visit. You could see in each child a beautifully developed character, as the children’s home has given them

the armor and skills to negotiate the perilous paths to the future.” When asked why it brought him joy to make a planned gift designated for advanced education at the Masonic Children’s Home, Bro. Howard related that he appreciated the thoroughness of thought given to matching the abilities and interests of each child to an appropriate post high school experience. The Masonic Children’s Home provides each student with the necessary financial resources and encouragement to pursue either college, a trade school or military service. “I see a rosy future for the children,” Bro. Howard said. “We need all types of training,” Bro. Howard pointed out, and he is a living example of his own philosophy. His varied life and training included the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, Penn State University and Temple University. His career included 30 years as a teacher and school principal, 20 years in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and many years in housing rehab and leasing. This planned gift is a good illustration of the matching of the passions and experiences of a donor with the specific purpose of a charitable fund. Presently, 10 graduates of the Masonic Children’s Home are in trade school or college, and that number is expected to increase to 15 students within the next couple of years. According to Virginia, without the new fund, the children’s home would be strained to provide the necessary funding to ensure that every graduate receives a fully funded education. The Advanced Education Scholarship Fund goal is $5 million. Special donor recognition is provided for a contribution of $100,000 or a planned gift of $100,000 combined with an annual cash pledge of $5,000. Those making an outright gift, pledge or planned gift such as a gift annuity or future bequest, can be recognized. If you are interested in receiving information on how you can support this new fund, please contact the Masonic Charities Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454.

22 FREEMASON

Pennsylvania Freemason

“Benjamin’s Field Trilogy” by J.J. Knights Reviewed by Cathy Giaimo, Assistant Librarian, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania Bro. James J. Knights, Harmony Lodge No. 429, Zelienople, has written an expansive historic novel that he has divided into three parts. Bro. Knights tells the story of three generations of a struggling farm family in Western Pennsylvania during the years between World War I and World War II. In “Book One: Rescue” we meet Benjamin Kyner, widowed farmer and Freemason, his son, Francis, and others in this small community just as war is breaking out in Europe. Francis is fascinated by the newfangled flying machines, and just as the United States enters the war, he volunteers his service in the Army Signal Corps. By the end of the book, Benjamin Kyner has lost his son, discovered he has an infant grandson with a handicap and must come to terms with his anger and bitterness at the blows life has landed him. “Book Two: Ascent” finds grandson Jeremy Kyner, a young teenager learning how not to let his handicap define him, and like his father, developing a love for aviation. With the help of two of his best friends and the caring adults in his life, Jeremy builds a glider for the school science fair and successfully gets it off the ground.

In “Book Three: Emancipation” Jeremy is now a young adult with a burgeoning career in engineering when Pearl Harbor is bombed. Like many of his generation, Jeremy volunteers for military service, only to be turned down due to his corrective surgery years earlier. After enduring that humiliation, he learns of the Civil Air Patrol, a civilian organization that patrols the U.S. coastline and watches for German U-boats. It is this fateful step that brings events that were started in the first book full circle. Within these three books, Bro. Knights discusses Freemasonry, the Catholic Church, the good work of Shriners Hospitals, vintage aeronautics, WWI and WWII air-to-air combat, as well as friendship, faith and family – all that make life what it is. If you are interested in any of the three books of “Benjamin’s Field,” please contact the library at 800-462-0430, ext. 1933, or visit The Masonic Library & Museum online catalog at www.pagrandlodge. org. This book is also available for purchase from the Museum Shop in the Masonic Temple at www.masonicmuseumgifts.com.

Librarian Elected Secretary of International Masonic Library and Museum Association Assistant Librarian Cathy Giaimo was elected Secretary of the Masonic Library and Museum Association (MLMA) at its annual meeting in September. A graduate of the Moore College of Art and Design, Cathy worked as a Library Assistant at the Philadelphia Museum of Art while earning her master of library science at Drexel University. She then worked in the library at The North American Publishing Co. in Philadelphia before joining the staff of The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania in 1996, a few months after the MLMA was formally organized. The mission of the MLMA is “to assist and support, through education, facilitation of communication, coordination of effort and other means, those individuals charged with the collection, management and preservation of the Masonic heritage.” The approximately 100 members hail from many nations, and the association meets annually in the autumn – each time in a different city – usually in the United States or Canada. Institutions as well as individuals may join, as the only requirement is a sincere interest in the work of Masonic libraries and museums. The website can be found at www.masoniclibraries.org.

FREEMASON 23

November 2015

Grand Master Hosts Temple Tours Grand Master, On behalf of all Widows Sons, I cannot thank you and the staff of Grand Lodge enough for your hospitality and participation at our recent gathering! I received countless compliments on not only the incredible beauty of the Temple, but also on your and the staff’s tremendous effort to make all feel welcome! - William “Bill” J. Huston, D.D.G.M.-41 The 13 chapters of the PA Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association combined in Philadelphia on July 25 for its sixth annual PA Widows Sons Grand Master’s Charity Event and Grand Gathering. Also in attendance were Widows Sons chapters from other jurisdictions including New Jersey, Kentucky, Vermont, Virginia and New York. The keystone of the event was a luncheon and tour of the Grand Lodge, graciously hosted by R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman. Over 150 Widows Sons and ladies enjoyed the Grand Lodge tour, accompanied by bus tours of historic Philadelphia. Grand Master Bateman accepted a plaque commemorating his tremendous support

of the Widows Sons. Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association is an internationally recognized Masonic entity whose charter purpose is the aid of our Masonic widows and orphans, as well as other charitable causes. The proceeds from the PA 2015 Grand Master’s event will, as in previous years, be contributed to the Masonic Children’s Home in Elizabethtown. On Sept. 5, R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman hosted a group of 18 brethren from District 7 on a tour of the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia. Most of the brethren were members of Chandler Lodge No. 227, West Reading, along with brothers from St. John’s Lodge No. 435, West Reading, and Reading Lodge No. 549. Many were relatively new members of the Craft, and this was their first opportunity to visit the magnificent Temple. The tour was organized by Bro. James Frank, Chandler Lodge No. 227, nephew of Grand Master Bateman. After an interesting, and sometimes behind-the-scenes tour, the group enjoyed lunch in the Wanamaker Dining Room.

6th Annual Masonic Restoration Foundation Symposium During the weekend of August 21-23, the Masonic Temple hosted the 6th Annual Masonic Restoration Foundation (MRF) Symposium. At the festive board, Wor. Bro. Robert Herd was the keynote speaker describing “Freemasonry’s Near Death Experience.” After the invocation on Saturday morning, Bro. Thomas W. Jackson, R.W. Past Grand Secretary, a member of the board of directors of the foundation, gave an address welcoming the brethren to the symposium and the Masonic Temple. Wor. Bro. Andrew Hammer, President of the MRF, opened the Symposium with an address titled, “The Role of the MRF in North American Masonry.” The sessions featured talks on “The Initiatory Experience and Human Nature,” “Incorporating the Fine Arts into the Lodge,” “Constituting a New Observant Lodge,” “Restoring the Culture of an Existing Lodge,” “Admit Him if Properly Clothed,” “Come to Your Senses,” and “Restoration through the Centuries.”

The closing address by Wor. Bro. Oscar Alleyne was titled, “Can We Transform a Brotherhood of Change?” All were aimed at encouraging lodges to do their utmost to promote outstanding lodge experiences, especially through restoration of early Masonic practices. Examples include taking great care in the performance of the ritual work, paying attention to the educational needs of the candidate and learning from the best Masonic traditions of the past. Each talk presented ideas to this effect from the unique perspective of each speaker. In addition, the participants enjoyed a tour of the Masonic Temple, experienced the conferral of the Entered Apprentice Degree by members of Fritz Lodge No. 308, Conshohocken, held a reception and town hall question-and-answer session with the panel of speakers; and enjoyed a good, old fashioned night on the town.

24 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason

DeMolays Lead Masonic Village Wellness Parade

The Pennsylvania DeMolay Key Man Conference, in its 30th consecutive year, has long held a part of its week-long program at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. This allows the DeMolays and DeMolay Sweethearts to take part in service projects at the Masonic Village and to interact with the residents. The projects have included visits with residents, carnivals, dances, casino parties and ice cream socials. This year, the project was on the closing day of a weeklong wellness program for Masonic Village residents which had them participating in a parade from the Masonic Health Care Center to the Veterans Grove where they witnessed a Civil War drama. The DeMolays wrote and acted out a costumed re-enactment of Pickett’s Charge at the Bloody Angle, the center of the Union line, and the chance meeting of two Masonic brothers on the battlefield – Union Capt. Henry H. Bingham and Confederate Gen. Lewis A. Armistead – as depicted in the Friend-to-Friend Masonic Monument in Gettysburg.

DeMolays provided escorts to the Veterans Grove for residents using wheelchairs and created an honor guard lined with DeMolays proudly displaying flags of the United States. The young men dressed as Union and Confederate soldiers and had a brief battle, after which the dramatic meeting between Brothers Bingham and Armistead took place. Carlisle Chapter’s Tyler Ball portrayed Armistead, while Elizabethtown Chapter’s Daniel Sellers played Bingham. Allentown Chapter’s Daniel Shevalier provided a short historical review, and Tyler Swansey of Virginia DeMolay and R.E. Grand Commander John A. Habel, Jr., of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templars in Pennsylvania, offered closing remarks. The program closed with a prayer by Grand Chaplain Rev. A. Preston Van Duersen, followed by a stirring rendition of “God Bless America” led by Elizabethtown Chapter DeMolay Advisor Bro. Russell Baker.

November 2015

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION 25

Growing by Leaps and Pledges! Pennsylvania Rainbow Girls membership is on the rise! How, you might ask? The answer is the success of our Pledge Program. Pledges are girls ages 6-10 who meet once a month for ritual, crafts, food and fellowship. Once a year, we invite our pledges to learn even more about Rainbow Girls by joining us at a Patton Weekend. From Aug. 21-23, 29 pledges joined 31 Rainbow Girls (under the age of 14) and 28 of the Grand Officers and had an AWESOME Rainbow experience! The older girls mentored the pledges while they played games, made greeting cards for residents at the Masonic Village, had a demonstration pledge meeting, made “magic wands,” swam and drank lots of chocolate milk. There are 90 pledges in groups across our state. There might be a Pledge Group associated with your local assembly. If so, checking out their meetings and activities is a heartwarming and rewarding experience! We are “Growing PA Rainbow – Together” … Initiating our Pledge Girls as soon as they turn 11!

Rainbow Girls Spread Cheer through Charity Each year, the Rainbow Girls of Pennsylvania support at least two charity projects on a state-wide level: the state charity and the Grand Worthy Advisor’s charity, as well as local projects in each assembly. At the Grand Assembly, Pennsylvania Rainbow presented two checks to worthy charities. Junior Past Grand Worthy Advisor Ashley Loeb chose “Operation Smile” as her charity, and through her efforts and the efforts of all of Pennsylvania Rainbow, the organization donated $7,511.43 to aid children with cleft lips and palates. For the past few years, Pennsylvania Rainbow’s state charity has been “My Stuff Bags,” which provides blue duffel bags with items that children in the foster care system can take with them when they move from home to home. Thanks to the efforts of all of Pennsylvania Rainbow, under the guidance of Sister Stephanie Rickert, Past Grand Charity, the organization donated $2,410.15 for this cause. For the 2015-2016 year, the Grand Worthy Advisor’s charity will be the “Make-AWish” Foundation.

Meet Rainbow Girls Grand Worthy Advisor Betsy Stowinsky, 20, of Washington, Pa., is honored and excited to be Grand Worthy Advisor for 2015-2016. She joined Martha Assembly No. 11, Washington, at age 11. She has served as Worthy Advisor, Grand Representative to Virginia and Massachusetts, Grand Service, Grand Nature, Grand Faith and Grand Drill Leader. This fall, she begins her junior year at California University of Pennsylvania where she is majoring in communication: TV and radio. She loves helping people and claims that her favorite exercise is laughing. Her fondest memory is her initiation into the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls.

26 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason

Fourth in the Nation! Job’s Daughters is excited to announce that their International Charity – the HIKE Fund – has reached its 30th anniversary this year! The fund provides hearing devices for children between the ages of newborn and 20 with hearing losses whose parents are unable to meet this special need financially. An estimated 100 children are provided with hearing devices each year. Pennsylvania Job’s Daughters have actively supported this charity, having raised a total of $214,000, which ranks them fourth in the nation for total fundraising. At the recent annual Job’s Daughters International Supreme Session, it was announced that the HIKE fund has raised over $5 million for youth with hearing impairments. Many Daughters in Pennsylvania reach the $1,000 mark individually for raising donations. This past year, two Daughters were honored at the annual Supreme Session: Miss Romaynse Smith, from Mechanicsburg, raised almost $5,000, and Miss Maitland Witmer, from York, raised $2,000.

Meet Miss Job’s Daughter of PA Miss Kearstyn Kepler, 17, was selected Miss Job’s Daughter of Pennsylvania at the annual scholarship pageant in April. She is a senior at Northeastern High School in Manchester, Pa., and she hopes to attend Temple University, Philadelphia, to major in education with minors in music and psychology. A seven-year member in Job’s Daughters Bethel No. 1, York, Kearstyn has held many offices including Honored Queen. Her duties include representing Pennsylvania in the Miss International Job’s Daughter Pageant and at statewide Masonic family events around the Commonwealth. If you see Kearstyn, ask her how Job’s Daughters can help any girl grow in poise, confidence, academics and social ability!

Job’s Daughters Opens Membership Voting delegates at Supreme Session for Job’s Daughters International (JDI) amended their law regarding membership eligibility. If after a diligent search for “Masonic heritage” (relationship by bloodline or marriage), nothing can be found for a candidate, a young girl can now join Job’s Daughters as long as a majority member of Job’s Daughters and a Master Mason sponsor her to join. This is an exciting new option for Job’s Daughters who occasionally would recruit a new member, only to disappoint her after finding out that she wasn’t eligible to join. This new ruling opens the doors for many new members while also increasing support from alumni and cooperating lodges.

November 2015

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION 27

DeMolay Charitable Outreach For 16 years, the Pennsylvania DeMolary charity has been the Scottish Rite Children’s Dyslexia Centers, which provide no-cost tutoring to children diagnosed with dyslexia. Many of our DeMolay chapters have established excellent working relationships with several of the centers in Pennsylvania, supporting their various fund raising activities, especially the walks. Annually, the Pennsylvania DeMolay State Sweetheart undertakes the project of encouraging the chapters to raise funds for the various centers. Miss Alicia Daniels, who retired as State Sweetheart in July, started out her year with a goal of raising at least $6,000, the approximate cost to put one child through one year of tutoring at a center. Through the distribution of Mini M&M tubes that were emptied and then filled with quarters, cash (including at least one $100 bill!) and checks by DeMolays, advisors, many lodges and other organizations in the Masonic family; ice water bucket challenges at Key Man University 2014; and various fundraisers held by the chapters, a total of $13,914 was raised – double Alicia’s goal – and donated to the centers! All 10 lodges that meet in Masonic District 1, with the encouragement of District Deputy Grand Master Larry A. Derr and District Youth Chairman Steven J. Smith, supported the quarter collection, donating a total of $2,580 toward the total. While many DeMolay chapters are also supportive of local charities in their communities, the long-term commitment to the Children’s Dyslexia Centers has been something to celebrate, as in the 16 years of giving, over $124,000 has been donated to the Pennsylvania centers.

Meet DeMolay State Master Councilor Adam T. Pritchard, a Past Master Councilor of Reading Chapter, Order of DeMolay, was elected and installed as Pennsylvania DeMolay’s 81st State Master Councilor at the annual convention held in Gettysburg the weekend of July 17. Bro. Pritchard, a four-year member of DeMolay, joined Chandler Lodge No. 227, West Reading, in 2013, and has started his junior year at Kutztown University, majoring in industrial organizational psychology. He is a Representative DeMolay, a Chevalier and served as State Senior Councilor last year. His program as State Master Councilor is “Be Different,” in which he is challenging the members and advisors of the DeMolay Chapters in Pennsylvania to try at least one different activity, or different approach to an activity, in hope of generating greater interest from the current members and new petitioners. His term will conclude on July 17, 2016, at the Seven Springs Resort in Champion, Pa.

Masonic Scholarships Make an Impact on Students Over $123,000 was given out in 2015 and another $39,000 promised as conditional recurring awards by the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation through its Educational Endowment Fund. In 2016, it is estimated that between 55 and 60 students will be selected to receive awards ranging from $1,000 to $3,000, including multi-year awards. The annual program is open now and runs through March 15, 2016, which is the final submission date for applications. Applicants MUST PLAN AHEAD to file on time, as copies of school transcripts and current tax returns or the FAFSA form must accompany the application. The committee requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and strong financial need to make an award. The program is competitive in that the current year’s applicants are measured against each other to determine need and likelihood for success. Along with the Educational Endowment Fund Scholarships, the 2016 Masonic Scholarship Resource Guide provides information on 66 other scholarships, grants and loan opportunities for Masons, their siblings, children and grandchildren; members of the Masonicrelated youth groups; Acacia Fraternity members; and residents or graduates of the Masonic Children’s Home. The Masonic Scholarship Resource Guide for the 2016 program and the 2016 application are now available at www.pmyf.org.

28 MASONIC VILL AGES

Autumn Day Saturday, September 19, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

2015

Pennsylvania Freemason

It was a picture-perfect day as 7,000 visitors enjoyed the beautiful Elizabethtown campus and spent quality time with members, friends and residents. Festivities included musical entertainment, traditional Autumn Day fare, Zembo Shrine clowns, farm market stands, farm animals, sales of crafts and hand-carved items made by residents, and Masonic organizations booths. Masonic Children’s Home residents and Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation youth groups offered activities for kids. The Masonic Blood Club hosted a blood drive with the Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank. In the Masonic Health Care Center, residents enjoyed food, music by Masonic Village music therapists and games. Visitors toured the campus and stopped by the Model Railroad Club’s open house. Al Wiesner sketched dozens of caricatures, and the Penn State Nittany Lion made an appearance! Save the date for next year’s event on Saturday, Sept. 24!

2015 Sewickley Community Festival More than 1,000 people spent a fun-filled day at the second annual Masonic Village at Sewickley Community Festival and Open House on Sept. 26. The festivities kicked off with the Syria Shrine’s Parade, which featured their Legion of Honor, Motor Corps, Arab Patrol, Highlanders Pipe Band, Shrine Chanters, Shriners Band, Camel Wheels and, of course, clowns! Visitors also enjoyed live entertainment; a vendor show with crafts, handmade items and wholesale items; booths featuring local businesses, fire and rescue and Masonic groups; a wing cook-off among local restaurants; KDKA 1020 AM & 93.7 The Fan participation; and tours of the retirement community and Sturgeon Health Care Center. Kids’ activities included a petting zoo, the Pirate Pierogi, a bounce house, face painting and a Child Identification Program. See you at next year’s event on Saturday, Sept. 17!

MASONIC VILL AGES 29

November 2015

l-r: Bro. Wendell Hunt; Bro. Ronald A. Aungst, Sr., R.W.P.G.M.; Dr. and Bro. John Kolchin; Rep. Karen Boback; Bro. John Bozette; Bro. Merr Trumbore; Bro. Marvin A. Cunningham, Sr., R.W.P.G.M.; and Bro. Allen Henninger, P.D.D.G.M. Photo credit: Kevin Greenberg.

3 Brethren, 3 States, 3 Awards, 1 Community Three residents of the Masonic Village at Dallas, hailing from three states, were honored with Masonic Service Awards by two Past Grand Masters of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania on July 15. Representative Karen Boback also attended the ceremony to recognize the recipients for their significant commitment to the oldest and largest fraternity in the world. Bro. John Bozette, a member of Honesdale Masonic Lodge No. 218, received a 60-year pin for his service to the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. Bro. and Dr. John Kolchin, a member of Lehigh Masonic Lodge No. 326, Macungie, Pa., and Canon Masonic Lodge No. 104, N.J., received a 50-year pin for his service to the Grand  Apples, apple cider, neck pumpkins  Local broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage  Fresh baked pies, apple dumplings, cookies, donuts and much more

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Lodge of New Jersey. Bro. Merr Trumbore, a member of George M. Dallas Lodge No. 531, Pa., and a former member of Aberdeen Masonic Lodge No. 187, Md., received a 50-year pin for his service to the Grand Lodge of Maryland. R.W. Past Grand Master Marvin A. Cunningham, Sr., also a resident of the Masonic Village at Dallas, and R.W. Past Grand Master Ronald A. Aungst, Sr., presented the awards. Wendell Hunt, D.D.G.M.-14, was also in attendance. Bro. Allen Henninger, P.D.D.G.M., resident of the Masonic Village at Dallas, served as Master of Ceremonies.

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30 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill Datestone Set On Sept. 18, 2015, residents, staff, Grand Lodge Officers and Masonic Villages’ board of directors gathered at the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill to mark the completion of the recent additions to the community and dedicate the new building by consecrating it with a datestone. Shown above are the Grand Lodge Officers performing the ceremony and the National Sojourners leading the processional. Within the datestone, documents and photos representing the Masonic Village were stored to be opened in the future.

“Fall” in Love with Masonic Villages! Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill The brand new apartment building officially opened on Aug. 19. It features 60 apartments including two-bedroom models with approximately 1,120 sq. ft. of living space, two baths, a patio or balcony, granite countertops, stainless steel kitchen appliances, walk-in closets and a washer/dryer. Schedule a personal tour of these beautiful apartments, and see why Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill is right for you! Call for more information: 610-828-5760.

Masonic Village at Sewickley With trips to nearby Pittsburgh, many residents engaged in active retirement this summer. Shopping, educational opportunities, sport outings and sight-seeing were just some of the activities that residents enjoyed, all while being able to return home to the wide-open space and comfort of the Masonic Village at Sewickley in the evening. Explore this beautiful lifecare community during its Holiday Open House on Dec. 9 at 10 a.m. R.S.V.P. by Dec. 2. To attend an event or schedule a personal visit, call 412-749-6862.

Masonic Village at Dallas Visit Masonic Village at Dallas this fall, tour our villas and apartments and see why this community has become so popular! Looking for a fun way to get into the holiday spirit? Join us for the Annual Holiday Arts and Music Celebration on Dec. 2! Drop-in between noon-3 p.m.; to help us prepare, please R.S.V.P. by Nov. 30. For more information or to schedule a personal tour, call 570-675-1866.

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Residents enjoyed sunny days at nearby local attractions this summer including visits to the Elizabethtown Fair, Lancaster city and Hershey attractions. Make sure to come by and tour the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s campus, cottages, apartments and the local attractions this season! For more information or to schedule a personal tour, call 800-676-6452.

MASONIC VILL AGES 31

November 2015

Qty. Capital Need

Cost Per Item

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown 42

Wheelchair cushions - specialty

$500

iPads

$600

Computer tablets

$700

Espresso machine

$800

Electric lift recliners

$900

Wheelchairs - specialty

$1,000

Bose stereo systems

$1,100

Shower chairs

$1,500

Wheelchairs - specialty w/customized

$1,500

TVs for spas - wall mounted

$1,600

Eva Pneumatic platform walker

$1,800

Wheelchairs - tilt & space

$2,000

Wheelchairs - Broda

$2,100

Sleeper chairs with casters

$2,500

Specialty mattresses

$2,500

Portable sound system

$2,502

Beds - pivot

$3,700

Lift - overhead

$4,667

NuStep machine

$5,600

Pianos (Roland - acoustic)

$6,000

Wheelchair glider swings

$6,000

Golf cart (street legal - 6-passenger wheelchair)

$15,000

Musical instruments

$5-$500

Masonic Children’s Home 40

Holiday gift fund

$50

College books (stipend)

$1,000

Camps/excursions

$3,500

HersheyPark trip

$2,250

Wildwood, N.J. trip

$4,450

Bleiler Cottage Needs 1

Refrigerator

$1,300

Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill District of Columbia museums with lunch & transportation $2,400 Harvest Ball event

$2,500

Drama lessons/activities for residents

$3,000

Masonic Village at Sewickley 1

Hand rail tilt & roll scale

$1,550

ARJO sit to stand lift

$4,100

4-channel e-stimulation - electric

$4,400

Occupancy sensors for apartment hallway

$20,000

Masonic Village at Dallas 1

Wii game set

$300

Handicap accessible picnic tables

$900

Gazebo

$10,532

Masonic Village at Warminster 10

Wood working kits

$100

Pergola with awning

$6,000

MASONIC VILLAGES’

2015

WISH LIST ITEMS OFFICE OF GIFT PLANNING

800-599-6454

Thank you to the following individuals who have provided for the following items since the last issue: Masonic Village at Elizabethtown: Bro. Harold and Jill Bucks: Wellness Center wish list Bro. Lester Sutter: Silent alarm system Jerusalem Lodge No. 506: Wheelchair cushions

Masonic Children’s Home: Anonymous: Printer, outdoor play equipment Bro. Ronald McKnight and Bro. Samuel McElheny: Various items Bro. Alois and Margaret Spease: Picnic table Bro. Fred and Mary Jane Sample, Richard Vaux Ivanhoe Lodge No. 384, Bro. George and A. Lucille Meissner: College books Jerusalem Lodge No. 506: Wildwood, N.J. trip Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill: Jerusalem Lodge No. 506: Trip to Washington, D.C. Masonic Village at Sewickley: William Richards: Gazebo Alma Casaro: Various items Masonic Village at Warminster: Jerusalem Lodge No. 506: Fish aquarium, aromatherapy kit, music therapy There is an all-inclusive wish list posted on the Masonic Charities website at www.MasonicCharitiesPA.org, or feel free to contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454. Please note that if funds donated for any item listed are oversubscribed, the funds will be used for additional wish list items or needs in the same service area.

Guaranteed Lifetime Income The need for a reliable income source is of special importance. Why not consider replacing that low rate CD or money market fund with a higher payout rate from a charitable gift annuity? For greater savings, you can transfer any stock or mutual fund (except from an IRA) to fund your annuity and avoid taxes you would have incurred on the sale of such holdings. Because the amounts transferred to fund your annuity are irrevocable, you receive a charitable tax deduction which, in most cases, is equal to more than half the value of your annuity. Best of all, any remaining funds available at the conclusion of the annuity will go to the Masonic charity of your choice.

It doesn’t get any better than this. You get: 1. A great payout rate. 2. Possible avoidance of capital gain taxes. 3. A charitable tax deduction. 4. The satisfaction of supporting the Masonic charity of your choice. Sample rates for single or joint life annuities are listed in the box below. Contact us today or send in the coupon below to get a personal illustration of the benefits you can receive with a charitable gift annuity from the Masonic Charities.

SAMPLE GUARANTEED LIFETIME RATES For One Life For Two Lives Age Rate Age Rate 70 5.1% 70 & 75 4.8% 75 5.8% 75 & 80 5.3% 77 6.2% 78 & 81 5.6% 81 7.0% 83 & 83 6.3% 85 7.8% 85 & 87 7.0% 90+ 9.0% 85 & 90 7.3% Note: This is a partial listing. Rates exist for any combination of ages. Minimum contribution $5,000. Minimum age 65.

COMPLETE AND MAIL THIS FORM TO:

Office of Gift Planning, One Masonic Dr., Elizabethtown, PA 17022 Telephone 800-599-6454 I would like more information, with no obligation. Please:  Send me a Charitable Gift Annuity illustration. Name(s)__________________________________________________________ Address__________________________________________________________ Telephone: ( )_________________________________________ Email:_____________________________________________________ My birth date____________ Spouse’s birth date____________ (if two lives) Dollar amount(s) to be illustrated (up to three amounts)_________________ _________________________________________________________________ If using appreciated stock, estimate cost basis__________________________

www.MasonicCharitiesPa.org 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.