As you tidy up your financial affairs for 1999, you will likely be thinking about your charitable giving goals and aspirations. Here are a few questions to help you plan.
1. Am I able to make a charitable gift to the Masonic Charities of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania in 1999, on the doorstep of a new millennium?
As the year closes, you will likely receive mail from vruious charities requesting your financial assistance. The close of the millennium may bring even more appeals. During this peliod, we hope you will remember the Masonic Chruities and our ongoing financial needs. We are eager to conclude this year in good financial shape so we cru1 confidently face the opportunities and challenges of the future. Your special yearend gift will strengthen us considerably.
A gift may be unrestricted, to be used whe re most needed. Or, it could be earmru·ked for a specific purpose. For example, you could designate your gift for capital expenses, such as new construction or remodeling projects. You also could establish an endowment fund to create a legacy or to honor someone you admire.
2. What are my tax obligations for 1999?
Many taxpayers consult with their accountants before the end of the year to determine tax liability. Perhaps you 've done that alread y or maybe you simply have a good id ea where you stand. In any case, we encourage you to take advantage of the tax benefits offered by the governme nt. The income tax charitable d e duction can allow you to give more than you might othe rwise be able to give.
AI:e your taxes likely to be high tllis year? Then it may be a good time to increase your giving. You might even conside r moving forward some of next year's giving into 1999 so you can utilize fue tax benefits this year.
THE GRAND LODGE F.&A.M. OF PENNSYLVANIA
Mason ic Homes One Mason ic Drive
Elizabethtown, PA 17022-2 199
Address Service Requested
Elizabethtown, PA and Additional Mailing Offices
3. Do I have appreciated stock or real estate I could use to fund an income-for-life gift arrangement?
You may find yow13elf in a situation where you want to give more to the Masonic Charities of the Grand Lodge but cannot afford to decrease your annual income. Consider our gift annuity program. You can obtain one of these with a gift of stock and in many cases receive more income than you are currently re ceiving from tl1e stock. Your annuity payments from The Masonic Chruities Fwld would continue for the rest of your life.
For exan1ple , a 75-year-old person cunently qualifies for a gift annuity rate of 8.2 p e rcent. A gift of $25 ,000 would "yield" quarterly payments of $512.50 for the rest of his or h er life and for income tax itemizers, there is a charitab le tax deduction of $10,817.
Start Now
Perhaps the most important tlling about year-end giving is to strut early, especially if you ru·e planning to use stock or real estate. Life-income gift ruTangements and consultations with your professional advisor(s) also take time. The sooner you begin tl1e process, the less hurried y ou will fe e l.
To h e lp you to prepru·e further for a yeru--end gift, we want to send you a free brochure. Use the handy coupon below, or call the Development Office at 1-800599-6454. We ru·e available to assist you on a complimentary basis.
{Complete and return this coupon/
0 Please send me the free brochures about gifts of stocks and real estate.
0 I am i:rterested in obtaining a Masonic Charities gift annuity.
0 Please send me infonnation about remembering the Masonic Charities in my will.
0 Please contact me by phone. The best time to reach me is;
0 Please send me the free Personal Financial Affairs Record.
Achieving Together
Grand Master's Message page 2
The Grand Master's Message
Bre thre n:
In less than two months, we will install our ne:-.:t Grand Master, so this is my last opportunity to "talk" to every Pennsylvania Freemason in print. I am grateful to have had your support and thankfu l for the de dication, teamwork, and accomplishments of U1 e co untl ess bre thre n across t he state who served our great Fraternity.
1\venty-two months ago, I concluded my firs message as Gran d Master confidently fa c ing tile challenges of the times, saying:
"I have no d o ubt that together, we want to- we must- and we will do it th e right way in U1 e best interest of the Fraternity."
As I refle ct on what has been accomplished in our Fraternity since U1en, it is quite obvio us tl1at the most important word in that statement was "together." It's a tribute to all o f the brethren that the words and phrases that are used so frequ e ntly in our writing and speaking are ""together " "teamwork," "handin-hand-wi th unanimity " and "the Fanlily of Freemasonry."
I wis h I could show my app reciation in person to each bro th er who adde d to the successes throug hout the Fraternity in 1998 and 1999, but I wouldn't kn ow where to start or which tean1 to call upon first. The se\ eral successes reflected in the montage on the cove r of this publicatio n are just a hint of P e nnsyh ania Masons recent achievements.
A he rculean task was acco mplishe d by tl1e Co mmittee on Templ e and the Grand Lodge staff. Insid e and outside, our beautiful Maso ni c Te mple in Philade lphia - a registered national historic site and architectural wonder of the world - has been res to red to its original grandeur and r enovated and refurbished to upgrade and mod ernize facilities and services, car efully adapting to the magnificent decor. Corinthian Hall has a new three-manual o rgan , new lecterns and furniture for the stations and places the altar restored to its beau tiful walnut finish , and imprO\·ed sound system and lighting. 1e w organs were installed in all of the other lodge rooms. ln1prove ments were made in just about every area of the Temple, including til e addition of tile John Wanan1aker Room.
So mu ch has been accomplished by the Co nunittee on Masonic Homes, tile Masoni c Homes' staff th e Fanlily o f Freemasonry and the caring support of brethren and friends, not just at Elizabetiltown, but across the state. The Masoni c Homes' of Love" caring is now convenie ntly available from east to west -first, through the merged operations of tile two Masonic Eastern Star Ho mes, then tile purchase of Valley Care Masonic Center at Sewickley. i\leanw hile o n th e Elizabethtown can1pus, we co mpl eted tl1 e las t construction phases of th e Health Care Ce n te r c ulmin ating a team effort til at spanned most o f the d ecade.
The teamwork o f the Masonic Homes and the Pennsy lvania Youth Foundatio n e ngineered tile constmction of the new Samuel C. \Villi an15on Multime dia Center at th e Masonic Confere nce Center on th e Patton Campus in Elizabetiltown. The new facility and the imprO\•ed accommodations at Patton offer treme nd ous benefits for our yo uth and the entire Family of Freemasonry. The dedication was a high point in r ealizing the vision of Past Grand Sam Willian1Son. I am perso nally delighted til at it was nan1ed in his honor; but, believe me, one of the most diffi c ul t assigrunents in the project was keeping the nanling a s e c ret from hin1.
:\l asons working together along \vith the Veterans Adnlinistration , honored Am e ri ca s veterans of all times on Amled Forces Day. In record tim e , a committ ee led by Bill Kratzenberg designed and constructed tile Freemasot1S Pavilion at th e VA Ce nte r n ear Pittsburgh.
Looking from one generation to another, P ennsy h ania Free masonry welc ome d a n ew re lationship \vith tile pote ntial leade rs of tomorrow by bringin g yo ung m en of til e Acacia Fraternity to tl1 e Fanlily of Freemasonry, providing fraternal e nco uragement and finan cial aid to chapters on can1puse s o f colleges and uni vers ities in Pennsylvania
Tean1work in cyberspace has put Freemasonry in tune with the mode m times, putting the Grand Lodge of Peru1Syh'ania o n tile Interne t. The newly c reated Interne t Committee developed one of the most outstanding and most acti\·e web sites on the Internet. I say "thank you" to them.
P e rhaps nothing emphasizes Masons working toge th e r more dranlatically than the "sen ice to mankind" of the Grand Lodge Matc hing Charity Grants Progran1. Masons are uniting in their lodges, and lodges are joining together in their districts to serve the needs o f til e ir comm uni ties. Bretlu·en across tl1 e Co nm1onweal t h are demonstrating tile principles of Freemasonry and s howing their friends and ne ig hbors who we are, what we do and what we believe. Again I tl1ank each of you for that.
I suggest a hardy round of applause for the leaders of lodges across the state who are o rch estrating new e nthusi as m an10ng their members as a result of their networking and learning experiences in last year's Ove1ture seminars and this year's Conductor series of leadership management and training seminars. The very high percentage of lodges participating in the programs and the keen involvement of lodge leaders underscores the p rogressh·e attitude for meeting the fraternity's challenges of Ule times.
Thanks also, to the Masonic Education Committee s development of the irulOvative program just introdu ced Our newest Masons will be gaining a better understanding of P ennsylvania Freemasomy. A three-prut video series called "Tools of the Craft" is coming to all lodges this mo nth It is an effective audiovisual aid to be used witl1 tile n ew Ha ndbook for Candidate Instruction for quality orie ntation o f candidates as t11ey travel through til eir degrees.
I ch eris h the wonderful tin1 es and fraternal expe rie nces over these 22 months, all the result of many brethren witll uniqu e tal e n ts and dedication working togetl1er. Corintllian and Renaissance Halls we re both fill ed to capacity w hen three State Police Troopers - tile Commissioner, a Deputy Conmlission er and a Trooper- were made Mas ons-at-Sight.
Pennsylvania was the focal point o f Masonry when this Grand Lodge hosted the Confere nce of Grand Masters of North America in Philadelphia The re have been memorable cornersto n e- laying cere m onies, d edi cations, special communi cations, and visitations just about everywh ere in the state. Our corps o f ritualistic instructors are always involved and qui etly do a yeo man 's job, along with the district deputies, and lodge officers and committees. Their wo rk is greatly appreciated.
The Pennsyh·ania Masoni c F o unda ti on for C hildren is a clear-cut example of teamwor k. Consider the good work done thro ugh th e Student Assistance Prog ra m training Stenberg Scholarships, D.A.R.E. training, law enforcement scholarships, and grants for dmg and alcohol addiction prevention e ducation and intervention. Again I say "Thank you."
You can add to all til at I've me ntion ed, special activities s uc h as Charity Golf Tournaments, fanlil y picnics, reunions with Masons in Florida, and Masons' nights at baseball games. In addition, there are til e 31 standing committees and boards "ith responsibilities that keep Freemasonry alive and weU in PerulSyh·ania
I was not exaggerating when I said tilere are countless brethren involved across the state in serving tile Fraternity and se rving mankind. Und o ubtedly, the figure would be in the thousands.
That's why it is importru1t to me to take tllis last opportunity to say in print: "Thank you, one and all!"
Sincerely,
James L. Emette, R. W Grand Maste r
COVER STORY
Highlights of ach eve ments for Freemason r y i n Pe nn sylv an ia during 1998 and 1999 are depicted on the co ve r of th s iss ue of Th e Pe nn sylvania Freemason, many of them referenced in the Grand Master's Message on Page 2. Surrounding R.W Grand Master James L. Ernette in fr ont of the refu r bished Masonic Temple are p ctures of some not ab e event s ( clockw se fro m top left ) : Acquisition of Va l ley Care Mason ic Center; ded ica t ion of the Samue l C. Wi l li amson Mu t imed a Ce nter ; dedicat ion of the Freemasons Pav i l ion at the Pitt sburg h Veterans Ad m i n istrat ion Hospital; t he Mat ching Char ity Gra nts Prog ram ; making Masons-at-s ig ht; and the Overture Progra m .
Grand Secretary of Vermont Presents 50-Year Emblem to Pennsylvania Mason
As a fraterna l courtesy to the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, Cede ric L. Smith (rig ht). a Past Grand Mas t e r and the R.W. Grand Secreta r y of the Grand Lodg e of Vermont presented a 50-Year Emblem of Gold to Walte r T. Hempel ( front ) , a member of Hi ram Lodge No . 81 , Chestnut Hi l. The presentation w as made to Bro. He m pel du ri ng a spec i al prog ram Ju y 15, t he day before his 88th birthday, i n the Mayo Assi sted Li v ng Home , Nor thfie ld, VT. Har mony Ble nd , a lady barbershop q ua rt et , accom pan i ed P G.M Sm ith and fav ored Bro He mpel w th two songs , " Thank Yo u Dear Lo rd fo r Music " and " I Bel ieve " and le d a l l attendin g n s ing ing his favori t e hymn, "In the Ga rden. " The quartet (1 -r) are: Kathy Rot undi ; h i s daughter, Bo nn ie ( Hempe l) Ri nehart; Ann Wi nter; and Mary Slater. The Gr and Secretary also presented Bro. Hempel with his 50-year pin from Scott i sh Rite
THE PENNSYLVANIA
VOL. XLVI, NOVEMBER 1999, NO 4
Pub li cation No US PS 426·140 Novembe r 1999 issue of The Pennsytvaniil Freemason®at the Masonic Homes, Elizabethtown, Pennsylvan ia
GRAND LoDGE 0 FA CERS
James L. Emette, R. W. Grand Master
Roben L Dluge, Jr., R IY. Deputy Grand Master
Marvin A. Cunningham, Sr., R.IY. Senior Grand Warden
William Slater 11, R. W. junior Grand Warden
Marvin G. Speiche r, R W. Grand Treasurer
Thomas W. Jackson, R. W. Grand Secretary
T HE P ENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON C OMMITTEE
Blaine F. Fabian, ChaiTman and Editor
Luther J. Black
Paul D. As her
James N. Katsaounis
john H. Platt, Jr.
Fred D. Rissinger
D. William Roberts
(Anlclos mil pbocognpbs lor pobllation should bo ••,u "' Tb< Eif,ID<, 1M l'rrlnsyt.VUol--., P.O. Bca 261 4, \\'est Lown, PA 19609·2614. AD onlCk> mil pboU>gnpbs - 1bt prapmy of Ito Grmd l.!Jd&o.) () · 1999 The R. W. Grand Lodge F.&A.M or Pennsylvania Postmascer: Send address changes to: Distribution Office · Mailing Address The PennsylVania Freerrruon MASONIC HOMES One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown PA 17022 2 I 99 Publlsh<d ot lbt Homes, owned mil open!<d by the Grmd I.Ddgo offr« and Att<pttd M•sons ofl'onnsylv>nla,
21st Century Isn't 1ill Next Year, But Everybody Wants it in 2000
H ow many p eople will b e singing " I Didn t Know What Day I t Was" when they wake up New Year s Day and admit tha t they r eally aren 't in th e 21st c entury yet? I t seems everybody kno w s th e fac ts; but eve rybody wants to get the 21s t century underway early Oh w ell, we can have another "Next Millennium" N ew Year's Eve pruty on D ecember 3 1, 2000 A t l east i t' ll be great for the econ om y!
Th ere w as a y ear numb er ed " 1" but there n ever was a year "0"the first time a zero o ccurred w as in the y ear " 10" and th en i t can1e up again at the end o f eac h d ecade there after. The ye ar 2000 is ac tually the end of a decade and the end of this century. The n ext c entury actually will begin wh en t he calen dar goes from 200 0 to 2001.
STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP
(Act
)
November 1, 1999, The Pennsylvania Freemason ®; published quarterly at the Masonic H omes, Elizabethtown, PA 17022 Publishers : T h e Righ t Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Mos t Anc i ent and Honorable Free and Accep te d Masons of Penn sylvani a. Editor : Blaine F. Fabian Owner: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and A cce pted Masons of Pennsylvania. Known bondholders: non e No advertising handled . Free distribution averages 158,000 each quarter I certify that the statements made by me are correct and complete : Blaine F. Fabian, Editor
In an e-mail from his Florid a r esidence, Bob Rodg ers of J oseph H. Brown Lodge No. 75 1, Philadelphia, noted that in each of the las t two issu es of Tlw Pennsylv ania Freemas on ther e were refer ences to the ending of the 20th centmy and the beginning of the 21st century. H e reminded , "Smel y y ou must be awar e th e 218t cen t ury begins on January 1, 2001 , NOT on January 1, 2000. "
The Committee on The P ennsylvania F reemas on and th e Edito r are aware. L ast Spring, th e Committee dis cussed th e communication dilenuna that th e universal misint erpretation of time has wrought and deci ded in o rd er to announc e and report th e eve nts of these tim es, w e have t o go along with th e worldwid e willingness t o rush the c orning of th e 21st century So, cro oning " With My E yes Wide Op en," th e Edito r go es with the eiTant flow towru·d a n ew c entury th at' ll b e h er e before its tim e
High Twelve: A Place for Fellowship, Fun, Food And Service to Others
High Twelve clubs are active in Pennsylvania, p r ovidin g Masonic fellowship at refreshment as we ll as important support for yout h and youth education progran1s.
"What is High Twelve?" is probably the question asked most often of the members of that Masonically affiliated club. The s in1plest answer is t hat it is a social extension of the Maso ni c expe rienc e.
In days long-gone , noon and midnight were known as "hi gh twe lve" and "low twelve." "High twelve" is the time whe n people call off from labor to refres lunent, o r as so many call it to day, "lunch " Most Hig h Twelve clubs meet during t h e call-off from la b or for t h e dual purposes of refres lun e n t and Masoni c fell owship.
High Twelve is not a lodge; it's a club. It does not hold forth with the Masonic r itual of a Blue Lo dge; but strong ly en courages active participation of its m embers in their l odges. At the same time, it promotes t he philanthropic obje ctives of High Twelve.
In Au gu st 1920, E.C . (Walli e) Wolcott, a form e r minister who was the General Secretary at the time, m et with eig h t p r o mine nt friends at the YMCA in Sioux City, Iowa, for fe llows hip and cam arade rie as b us in ess assoc iates who were Master Maso ns. Thus was born the id ea of h aving Maste r Mason s me et in jus t suc h conditio ns and it was n a m e d "Hi gh Twelve " Th e ir und e rl ying principle was to h e lp their r espective lodges and the Ord er of DeMo lay. The co n cept was we ll r eceive d and soo n High Twelve clubs began to fonn , first in t he sunounding areas, t h en in oth er s t ates, and fina lly into other countri es. The parent organiza-
s ubje cts range from histo ry, hobbies, charity, travel, m e dical topics, finance, etc., limited only by the inge nui ty of the person a.ITanging t h e programs. Som e club s have ladies at all meetings, while others h ave l adies on s p ecial occasion s Althou gh only Master Masons can join High Twelve, anyo ne is we lco me at t h e meetings. The r efore , High Twelve can be a great t o ol for acquainting a worthy m an with men of the Maso ni c fraternity.
High Twelve cl u bs are e n co uraged to get involve d with meeting t he needs of their communities by whatever means th e club can muste r. This c an b e ass istin g youth, elderly, needy, or the conununity, itself.
High Twelve h as two ph ilant hropic obj ectives, yo u t h and e ducation, and strongly s upports th e Order of DeMolay, Rainbow fo r Girls , and Job 's Daughte rs. Su pport includes pre sence at yo uth meetings and events, as we ll as finan cial gifts. In addition to indivi dual club efforts, the Pennsylvania Ass ociation provides financially for th e gro up s through schol arships, awards, and general services.
Master Plan for Expansion of Valley Care Masonic Center Approved
On Sept. 24, th e Comtuittee on Masonic Homes approved a master plan for the construction of a continuing care r etir ement co mmunity on the 47 acres of land adjacent to the Valley Care Masonic Center in Sewickley, PA.
The Committee on Masonic Homes has given authorization to the architectural firm , Perkins Eastman , to proceed with the development of a more d etaile d design from which the community can be built. During the time of development, the plans will be presented to various governmental officials for approval.
The master plan, s h own below, adds 60 assisted living accommodations and, depending on interest, up to 263 ind ependent living options to the exis ting 128 nursing accommodations c urr ently available at the beautiful Sewickley site. The plans also have potential for a wellness center, day care area, clinics, a pool, and a clubhouse, a.Inong other convenient features
The assisted living area is expected to open for r eside nts in
the summer of 200 1, and the independent living ru eas are expected to open in the late summer or early fa ll of 20 02 Res ervations for the independent living areas w ill be accepted as of January 2000; ho wever, individuals intereste d in having their nam e placed o n a Priority L ist for independent living acconunodations may c ontact:
Marketing Manager
Masonic Homes One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022 ( 717) 36 1-45 14 or 1-8 00-676-6452 or
Executive Director Valley Care Masonic Center 1190 Menin1an Road Sewickley, PA 15 143 (41 2) 741- 1400
The leadership of High Twelve Clubs in Pennsylvania are (1-r): Front - David Jacobs, President of High Twelve International; William Heckman, 3rd V.P., PA Association; and Grant Roth, Secretary, PA Association. Rear - Phillip Garrett, 1.st V.P., PA Association; Robert Francis, President, PA Association; Warren Bolton, Trustee of the Wolcott Fund; Richard Showalter, Treas., PA Association; and Fred Engel, 2nd V.P., PA Association.
tion today is called High Twe lve Inte rnational with its h eadquarters in St. Louis, MO.
The first club in P ennsylvania, w hich is s till active, is High Twelve Club No. 50 in Phil adelphia, chrutered May 5, 1945 . Twen ty-seven High Twelve clubs h ave b ee n chartered in Pennsylvania and 23 of th em remain active today. The y operate as part of th e Pennsylvania Association of High Twelve Clubs, w hi ch is the state organization und er High Twelve Intern ational. Each cl ub dec ides h ow often and wh e n to meet (at h igh twelve or at dinn ettim e), and the order of its b u s iness.
A typical High Twelve meeting includes an invocation and "Ple dge of Allegiance to the Flag," a speak er with a topic of ge n er al interest, and, of course, food . Club business is either very s h ort, or handl e d by an Exec utive Co nunittee Speaker s'
The Wolcott Fo u ndation is its most important e du cati on a l o bj ective It provides sc hol arsh ip s to st ud e n ts at George Washington University w ho seek public service care e rs in gove rnment. In a ddition to having been accepted by Geor ge Washington Un ivers ity, a candid ate must und ergo High Twelve scrutin y of social and moral v alues akin to t h ose required to b eco m e a Mason. After gradu ation from Geor ge Wash ington , he or s h e must serve in a governm e n t or in ternation a l affairs posit ion for
four years for th e sc h o lars hip to be co n s ide re d a grant; oth erwise, o nly the portion serve d is c ons idere d a grant and the r emainder is a loan w hi ch must b e repaid. The objective, w hic h is being m et quite we ll, is to get persons in highly r esponsible po s itions w h o will provide th e m oral lead e r s hip in solving the many complex prob lems of the wo rld During th e 1998-99 school year, ther e were 2 1 fe llows at a cost of $2 18,397. Over t h e past te n years, th e Foundation h as inves t e d approximate ly $2 millio n in edu cating 99 f ellows (whi ch includes females) Ove rall, it has ass iste d 330 students s inc e its fatmding.
For information abo u t High Twelve, w h ether it is t o learn abou t clubs in your area, to seek info rm atio n about j oining, or to investigate foruling a n ew club, contact the Secr etary of th e Pennsylvania Association of High Twe lve Clu bs, Grant Roth , 152 N. Whitfield St , Nazareth, PA 18 064 (Phone: 61 0 -759-353 1).
Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania
As the Masonic Matching Chari ty Grants pr ogram nears the clim ax of anot her successful y ear, Pennsy vania Freemasons can b e proud th at om Brotherhood h as touch ed thousands of lives sin ce the program s inception.
This ye ar, as of Sept. 10, th e Program h as assisted lodges in providin g mo r e than $800,000 t o chruitable causes throughout the Commonwe alth. The p rogran1 has matched approximat el y 655 grant r equests fro m nearly 300 l odges There have been 41 Mas onic districts v.Ti th at least 50% pruticipation from lodges and th e 11 lod ges of the 1st Masonic Distlict can be proud to be the only Distlict wi th 100% pruticipation at this time.
PARTI CIPATION is th e k ey for making your lodge more visible in th e community, lodge m embers more involved in th e affairs of th e lodge , and Freemasonry kn own throughou t th e Commonwealth as a fr at ernity th at truly takes good men and makes them better.
PHILADELPHIA LODGES SUPPORT YOUTH TEAM
Fi ve lodges of M asoni c District D in Philad elphia join ed t o support a state c hamp ion "Ten -Year- Old " base ball t eam in its quest t o attend the AAB C World Selies in Olive Branc h , Mississippi in Augu st. To gether wi th ma tching grants , th ey contlibuted $4, 500 t o th e t eam 's c aus e
Although t h e team h ad establish ed an exemplary r ecord over th e p as t three years of 75 wins, seven losses , and three stat e championships, th e b oys wer e def eated on th e way to the World Seties.
The t eam contac t ed K enneth W Bleiler, D.D.G.M (shown ri ght r ear p r esenting th e contlibution t o the t eam). District D lod ges that c ontribute d to th e suppmt wer e: Lodge No . 2, L od ge N o . 9, Frankford Lodge N o . 292, Tac ony Lodge No . 600, and J oseph H. Brown Lodge No 751.
Being Visible Through Involvement In Our Communities
If yo_ur lodge has yet to participate in the Masonic Matching Chanty Gr ants progran1 , it's not too late.
Status reports and the types of lodge progran15 can be found on the Pennsylvania Grand Lodge website < <pagrandlodge.org>>.
Finish '99' Projects by Dec. 27
All 1999 Matching Grants projects must be completed by Dec. 27 to be applied to 1999 lodge maximum allowance Projects completed later will be applied to the next year's a lowance.
The R.W. Deputy Grand Master has announced that t he Match ng Charity Grants prog r am will co ntinue in the year 2000, and lodges are e n couraged to make p l ans to use th i s program to become more visible in the i r communities.
Cassia- Mt. Horeb Lodge No. 273 Sends Boy Scout To Japan
Eag e Scout, Jai Sujan has been challenged all his life with cerebral palsy and his mobility is possible onl y with the use of a wheelchair
When the Boy Scouts of America's Cradle of liberty Council, which serves Philadelphia, Montgomery, and Delaware Counties , learned that they were selected to participate in a Boy Scout Exchange in Matsuyama, Ehime, Japan, they chose Scout Sujan to represent them. The event will focus on. what young people with disabilities can accomplish. However, the Council needed a sponsor. When Cassia-Mt. Horeb Lodge No 273, Ardmore, learned about the Eagle Scout's need, th e brethren quickly came forward, donating $750
Eag_le Ja i visited Cassia-Mt. Horeb Lodge to meet his sponsors. He IS pictured w1th Bros Winton E. Hewitt, W M. , and William c. Diesinger, Jr., Chaplain.
Lodge Helps Make Easter Seals Big Winner.
Reading Lodge No. 549 contributed $1,500 to make those served by Easter Seals the real winner of the successful Office Olympix competition held June 21 in Reading and the Lehigh Valley. Easter Seals Representative Patrick McCollough (front left) , son of Joseph and Carol McCollough, is shown acc e pting the presentation check that's almost as big as he is from Peter Szpak , W.M. ( left ) Another Eas ter Seals Representati v e , Logan Rhoads , daughter of Ray and Susan Rhoads , is on the other end of the check. At right is Cr ystal Se it z, Co-Chairperson of Offic e Ol y mpi x and Co mmunity Re ation s M a nage r for GPU Ene r gy .
SUPPORTING CAMP CADET
A spaghetti dinner, onion sale, and donations b y memb ers of Washington Lodge No. 164 resulted in sufficient proceeds to contlibute $4,11 6 t o th e Camp Cadet Progran1 of the Pennsylvania State Police and municipal poli ce officer s for boys and girls of ages 12 through 14 Presen tation of the contribution was m ade by David L. Richards , W.M ( second from left in photo above) , to the Camp Director, Trooper Roger Szuminsky (cen ter ) , and Rainey Sethman (second from light), th e "1999 Cadet of the Year. " A t l eft is Wilbur E . Meeks, Secretary, and at righ t is D. Everett Plance , Treasurer.
In Grove City, $200 was c ontlibute d by Cedar Lodge No. 800 to support the Camp Cadet Program in Mercer and Butler Counties. David A. McCalla (left in photo at l eft) presented the contribution to Troop er Joseph Katavich w hile Ke th A. M cKni ght, D.D.G.M. , 53rd Masonic Distric t looks on.
17th Masonic District Raises Funds For New School 55th District Races for Arthritis Research
The Northern Tier Children s Home in Harrison benefitted because of the brethren of the 17th Masonic District having raised $12 , 000 to expand the Home's learning center wh ich provides home schooling fo r ch ldren. This is the second year for the brethren of the District's nine odges to donate their time a nd effort to an auct i on selling such items as antiques, used furniture and appliances , tools, lawn equipment, and more at the Northern Tier Chi ldren's Home. The br ethr e n also helped with the pickups, delivery, set up and cle an up that made the event successful. The auction raised more than $6 ,500 for the school and the lodges c ontributed an additional $5,800.
The school ' s Learning Center opened its doors in August 1998. Not long after the school opened, a need to expand was realized. Executive Director for the Northern Tier Children s Home, Bro. J Merle Herr, said "The support and encouragement of our Masonic friends and others has made this dream come true the school is expanding from one classroom to five. "
Th e lodges in the 17th Masonic District that made this proje c t pos sibl e w e re : Fri e nd ship Lodge No 247, M a ns fi e ld ; Os sea Lodge No 31 7 ,
Wellsboro; Bloss Lodge No. 350 , Blossburg; Cowanesque Lodge No. 351, Knoxville; Tioga Lodge No . 373 ; Osceola Lodge No. 421 , Elkland ; Westfie l d Lodge No. 477 ; Lew isv lle Lodge No. 556, Ulysses; an d Galeton Lodge No. 602.
Receiving th e proc eeds from the benefit auction are ( 1-r ): Front - Bro William Faughnan , W M., Bloss Lodge No. 350 ; Jerry McC aslin, V.P of NTCH Board of Dire c tors ; Warr e n White , President of NTCH Bo ard; Bro. Gary B. Stahl ey, D D G.M. , 17th Masonic District. Re ar- Bros Butch Camp; Tom Hoppe , NTCH Direc tor of Finance; and J M erle He rr, NTCH
Executive Direc tor, Lew i svill e Lodg e No. 556; Ed Baily, Se c retary ; Fr ank Ev erette, S.W. ; Rusty Col e; a nd Ha rold Ro ss , Treasurer, Galeton Lodge No. 60 2 Not pictured is Bro. Larry Gee , J.W., Tioga Lo dg e No. 373 .
For the fomt h consecu tive ye ar, th e 55 th M as onic Distl·ict Race T eam p articipate d in th e Western P ennsy l vania Althli tis Mini-Grand Prix and again c ame aw ay with honors M ost exemplary, the te am w on t h e " High est Contribution" p aqu e The sl eek minir acer , with " 55" and th e squru·e and c ompasses on its hoo d , h ad "55 th M asonic Distric t " and "Masoni c Chalitie s" emblazoned on its si des. The r acing team, all dresse d in twotone purple outfits and caps, cap t ured a second place award f or their stliking uniforms More than $13,000 has b een contributed f or arthritis r esear ch through the supp01t of nine of the o dges of th e District and the Matchin g Chruity Grants Program. All of the odges m eet in th e Greater Pi ttsburgh Masonic Center.
Masonic leaders from lodges through ou t Pennsylvania are attending a series of Conductor seminars again this fall. The seminars are a continuation of the Overture series for "Me mbership De velop ment Through Excellence in Leadership."
The seminars this fall are aimed at helping lodge leaders understand the impo rtance of enrolling their new members and stemmi ng losses from suspension and resignations -a recurring problem in Pennsylvania and elsewhere.
"We believe that our newest members are our customers, too, and we must give them the same care and attention any new customer deserves in order to reinforce and support their decision to jo in," said G. Kent Hack ne y, Deputy Chief of Staff for the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
The Conductor Seminars are based upon the results of a 1998 survey among recent new members.
Special Programs He lp
The participants in the fall seminars have three new programs available to help them and their lodge. One of the most interesting i s called "Co mPak ," a selection of 20 of the most frequently used correspond ence f rom a lodge to a member for most occasions f ro m the fir st time he hea r s from t he lodge to spec i al holiday greetings and other communications he would re ce ive as a Mast er Mason. Every odge in Pennsylvania will receive "Com Pak" letters and in structions on how to use it .
"ProjectPak" is another helpfu l package for odge leaders. "ProjectPak" inc ludes information and step-by-step dir ections
The Grand Lodge and R.W. Deputy Grand Master Robert L. Dluge, Jr. and his wife Debra , invite you along w ith your family and friends to a once in a lifetime deluxe vacation to Germany with an option to attend the ,Passion Play," an event that only happens every ten years.
Featuring: Exc lu s ve charter jet, Frankfurt , Koblenz, cruising the Rhine to St. Goar, wine ta sting, Munich, Rothenburg, Weimar, Leipzig, Berlin, the "Passion Play, " and much more ! ( Itinerary availabl e upon request.)
on how to co mplete a project successfully in the lodge using traditional project management skills and procedures. "Project management as a methodology has been around for years and we felt that Masons could benefit from understanding it," said Bro. Hackney.
"MemberPak" is a guide for lodge leaders designed to help them plan, design, and develop strategies for new members to increase satisfaction and reduce losses due to suspension and other factors.
According to R.W. Grand Master James L. Ernette, "We fee that the second fall Conductor Seminar on Lodge Management reall y rounds out the leadership and management development skills of the leaders of lodges participating. As a resu lt , I fee we have in place a core group of nearl y 1,200 men who know w hat 's right, know what to do, have the materials, and have been exposed to ways to use them more effectively." Grand Master Ernette concluded, " From here we must move to embed these behaviors in every lodge. Because the leaders do change every year, we must continue this initiative until such time as we have 'institut iona lized' effective leadership in our lodges to the point that a man who becomes a Mason in Pennsylvania not only sees quality leadership first-hand, but also has the opportunity to learn these skills for himself as a benefit of joining. "
There are t wo Conductor Seminars remaining in Pennsylva nia at the dates and places below. Any lodge interested in attend ng one of the Conductor Seminars may do so by contacting David Meachen in the Office of the Grand Master in Philadelphia. Call (215) 988-1924.
Nov. 1 3
Nov. 20
Wilkes-Barre (Woodland Inn ) Harrisburg ( Harrisburg Marriott)
Pennsylvania Masons Unite for "Every 30 Minutes"
The Grand Lodge of Pennsyl van ia and Pr nce Hall Grand Lodge have come together to combine efforts with the Penns ylvania State Police and the PA DUI Association to give Pennsylvania schools the opportunity to participate in a national prevention program called " Every 30 Minutes. " The name of the program is derived from the tragic fact that every half hour, someone in the United States loses his or her life to a substance abuse
Includes : Round trip air from Philadelphia to Germany on an exclusive charter jet • Eleven nig ht deluxe hotel accommodations including taxes • Round trip ai rport transfers in Germany • Breakfast daily and two dinners
• Full-tim e professional escort(s) • "Passion Play" tickets (for t hose attending) • Special events with our brethren who live in Germany.
Price : (Based only on double occupancy)
$3,900 per person attending play
$3,700 per person not atte nding play
Payment Requirements :
1st Deposit - $1,000 per person is due w ithin ten days of confirming reservation.
2nd Deposit - $1,000 per person is due prior to November 30, 1999.
Final Payment - Due March 30, 2000. For information and reservations call Staci, King Coal Travel, Rt. 61, P O. Box 446, Mount Carmel, PA 1 785 1, (800) 332-8556 or (570) 373-1 525.
"Passion Play"
The quaint village of Oberammergau is set amidst a mountai nt op backd rop and is the perfect setting for th is show of pageantry that has been held throughout the centuries. Oberammergau will delight you with its beauty, breathtaking scenery, and crisp air. The "Passion Play," an outstanding c ultural event and a test im onial of religiou s faith, will ent hrall you
of Liquor Control Enforcement; and Stephen Erni, Executive Director of the PA DUI Association.
" Every 30 Minutes" is an intense two-day program focusing on high schoo l juniors and seniors, w hich challenges them to think about drinking, personal safety and the res ponsibility of making mature decisions when lives are inv olved. The program is a creative and comprehensi ve effort that will inv olve related traffic accident.
R.W. Grand Master Ernette and M.W. Grand Master entire communities. RepresentaHarris affirm their commitment to Pennsylvania's tives from the participating on Aug. 7, at the Radisson Penn youth as t h ey discuss the "Every 30 Minutes" schools, fire departments, hospiHarris Hotel in Camp Hill, approxi- program wit h Bro. and Col. Evanko. ta ls, police departments, and mately 800 brethren from both Grand Lodges came togeth- other community leaders will play critical roles in presenting er at the "Masonic Unity Banquet" to pledge support to the students with the opportunity to experience first-hand the youth of Pennsyl va nia. It is the first time that the Grand tragedy of driving under the influence. Lodges of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and Prince Hall Grand Lodge w ill Lodge of Pennsylvania and Prince Hall Grand Lodge will be jointly support and actively work together in a community encouraged to work w ith the community in organizing the project. The Masonic Fraternity will provide both financial program with the Pennsylvania State Police under the guidand active support to the "Every 30 Minutes" program. ance of the Pennsy lva nia Masonic Foundation for Children. R.W. Grand Master James Ernette spoke of the program as "an eye-opening, motivating enactment of true-to-life circumstances resulting from the dangerous mix of youth ful exuberance, drugs and alcohol , automobiles and speed its lessons will be poignant; the impact everlasting."
"Success will come through everyone's participation ," sa id Prince Hall M.W. Grand Master La w rence Harris. Representatives of Pennsylvania law enforcement present were: Bro. and Col. Paul Evanko , Commissioner for the PA State Police; Bro. and Lt. Col. Tom Coury, Deputy Commissioner of Administration; Major Frank Koscelnak, Director of the Bureau
A detailed letter expla ining the program from the Pennsylvania DUI Association has already been sent t o all high school s uperintend ents seek in g those sc hool s with SADD (St udent s Against Destr uctive Decis ions) programs who may be interested in b ecoming one of the first sc hool s in the Commonwealth to participate in this national program. The Pennsy l van ia Freemasons, Pennsy lvania State Polic e, and the PA DUI Association will chose 20 schoo s to laun ch the program this fall. Th e "Every 30 Minutes" program was originated in Spo k ane , WA , and is now spread ing across the country.
law Enforcement Scholarship Awarded
William Baily , D.D.G.M., 29th Masonic Di str ict (second from left) presented Ryan J Thomas (center) , a gra duate of Waynesburg Central High Schoo l, with one of three Law Enforcement Scholarships awarded this year by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. He will r ece i ve $10,000 over four years while attending Shippensburg Universi ty to study criminal justice. He is the son of Robin S. Thomas (l eft) an d Mary Th omas and grandson of Dennis Thomas (second from rig ht ) Both ar e members of Waynesburg Lodg e No. 153. At right is his uncle, Richard Thomas, Diet rick Lamad e Lodge No. 755, Williamsport.
Ryan Thom as has attended the Pennsylvania State Police Camp Cad et , is an in structor in C.P.R. and first aid, i s E.M.T. ce rtifi ed, a volunteer fireman in Waynesburg, and active in numerous co mmunity endeavors.
The Law Enfo rcement Scholarship program was developed and imp lemented by R.W. Grand Master James L. Ernette, a ret ired Pennsylvania State Police Trooper, to recognize and help young men and women whose goals ar e to serve others and keep thei r communities safe.
IN MEMORIAM
Hiram Price Ball,
Right Worshipful Grand Master 1970-1971
July 13, 1913- September 10, 1999
Hiram P. Ball was the son of George Loyal Ball, founder of three Pittsburgh c h emical companies, and Lilian Willian1 Ball. He was educated in the public schools of Pittsburgh and the Uni versity School of Pittsburgh, from which he was g r ad uate d in 1932 He t hen attended Lehigh University, but transfe rred to Franklin and Marshall Coll ege, where he eamed a Bachelor of Alts degree in 1937. He attended Harvard Graduate School of Business Administratio n in 1937 and 1938. In 1968 , he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Thiel College in P ennsylvania.
On Oct. 16, 1943 , in Covingto n , KY, Bro Ball married Florence H. Can1pbe ll of Indianapolis, IN. They had one son and two daughters. The Balls h ave been members of the Glade Run United Pres byterian Church, Cooperstown. PA.
Bro Ball's first job ( 1938-1940) was as a laboratory technician with a small company in New York City that manufactw ·ed paint and industrial coatings. He then joined his father's Ball Ch e mi cal Co. as secretary-treasurer and dir ector ( 1940- 1959) and later became president and chaim1an of th e board ( 1959-1984). Bro Ball also was secretary-treasurer of the fantily-owned Cleano la Co. (19401985). During the same petiod, he was secretary, dire cto r and late r preside n t of the fanlily-he ld Pittsburgh Insulating Co. Later, he also was preside nt and director ofB.B .I., Inc. (1967- 198 1) , a c ompany he esta blish ed and d eveloped a system of mechanics to pull fiberglass and resins t hroug h heate d molds into various s h apes used b y the e lec tri c industry. His memb e rships in professional organizations wer e num e rous and he h e ld leadership offices in most of th em.
In addition to his industlial interests , Bro. Ball was a partner \vith his two brothers in Ball Associates ( 1941-1 985) , which ran the largest purebred He re ford breeding farm in th e East and was the first in Pennsylvania to develop polled (hornless) cattle. He belonged to a numb e r of li vestock and breeders associations and served lead ership roles in mos t of them.
He was a trustee of Franklin and Marshall Co llege ( 19 521972), a me mb e r of th e advisory board of the Allegh e ny Ce nte r Branch of th e Pittsburgh National Bank (1960-
1969), on th e board of trustees of the Union Dale Cemetery Co. , and president ( 1954- 1965) of th e Middlesex Twp. School Authority.
Hiram P. Ball b ecame a Mason in Harmon y Lodge No. 429 , Butle r County, in 1941 and served as its Worshipful Maste r in 1944. He resigned in 1947 to beco me a me mber of his father s lodge, Corinthian Lodge No. 573, Allegheny Co unty, from which h e resign ed in 19 59 to b ecome Warrant Master and trustee of Col. He nry Bouquet Lodge No. 787 In 1978, tha t lodge merged with Lodge No 45 in Pittsburgh
In Grand Lodge, Bro. Ball serve d as the 48th Masonic District Deputy Grand Master from 195 1 to 1963, and was elected Junior Grand Warden in 1964. He served as R. W. Grand Master in 1970 and 1971. Grand Master Ball advocated stronge r administration and inc reased interest in the Masonic Homes in Elizab e thtown and toward those ends h e ld th e first "Grand Master s Day." Th e existing P e nnsylvania Freemasons Hospital was extensively renovated and plans were approved in 1971 for a multimillion dollar medical facility to be calle d the "Mas ons Care Building. "
Bro. Ball was a York Rite member of Chapter, Co un c il , Commandery, and Red Cross of Constantine in Pittsburgh. He received the Scottish Rite d egrees in the Valley of Pittsburgh and also maintained me mb e rship in the Valley of New Castle. He was coroneted a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33°, in De u oit in 1964. He was a member of Syria Temple of the Ancien t Arabic Order, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, Pittsburgh, and served as lllustlious Potentate in 1957. He was a m e mb e r of th e Royal Order of Jester, Islan1 Grotto, Tall Ce dars of Lebanon, th e National Sojoumers, and the High Twelve Club.
Bro. Ball's Masoni c honors includ ed th e Pennsylvania Franklin Medal from the Grand Lodge of P e nnsylvania, the Henry Price Medal from th e Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, th e Erasmus James Philipps Medal from the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia, th e Honorary Legion of Honor Degree from th e Inte m atio nal Supreme Council of t11e Order of DeMolay, and th e Grand Cro ss of Color from t11e Intemational Order of th e Rainbow for Girls.
The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and Committee on Masonic Education
Pennsylvania Freemasons lead the way! attempt in Freemasonry, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania has produced a three-part video series in response to an overwhelming demand from lodges for more effective tools in candidate instruction.
"Tools of the Craft" will be used to supplement and enhance the n ew Mason ic Education Handbook joT Candidate Instn1.ction developed and forwarded to each lodge earlier this year. Everyone, Masons and non-Masons alike, who see these videos will be impressed with the proud tradition of Freemasoru-y, the high ideals and beliefs of the Craft, and how Pennsylvania Freemasons work together to help each other and make our communities a better place in which to live. These videos will lead the way in creating "Masonic Ambassadors" out of newly made Master Masons.
Video 1: What I t Means To B e A Pennsylv ania Maso n
Video 2: Position On R eligion And S ecrecy Issues
Video 3: R esponsibilities And Benefits Of Memb e-rshi p
These app roximately 15-minute videos will bring to life who we are , what we be lieve, and what we do. Through vivid, memorable images, and sound, it will h e lp inspire active participation in your lodg e and h elp express the pride of being a Pennsylvania Freemason to candidates.
Look for Tools of the Craft ... . coming to your lodge in November!
More than 350 golfers thoroughly enjoyed the competition, fun, food , and fellowship of the Grand Master's three Charity Golf Outings from west to east across the state on Aug. 16, 23, and 30. The events netted approximately $25,000 to benefit the Masonic Children 's Home at Elizabethtown. R.W. Grand Master James L. Ernette attend e d all thre e events to thank the participants for suppmting the charity and the sponsors for making it possible.
Bros. Joseph E. Murphy, Executive Director/C EO , and William C. Davis, Jr., Administrator/COO, of the Masonic Homes, attended the Western and Eastern events and Bro. Gilson "Buzz" Cash, Director of the Masonic Children 's Homes, attended the Central event to thank the participants and the sponsors for their support. Smith Barney Capital Management was the primary sponsor for all three outings
After the round played by 108 golfers in ideal weather on Aug. 16 at Quicksilver Country Club west of Pittsburgh, Richard L. Stemmler, D.D.G.M., 30th Masonic District and Chairman of the Western Region Outing, a l ong with Grand Master Ernette and the Honorary Regional Chairman, William
Some of the winners at the Western Outing are (1-r): Mike Crosby; Jim Slote (putting contest); R.W.J.G.W. Slater; Grand Master Ernette; Rusty Lauffer; and Gary Canong. Slater II , R.W. Junior Grand Warden, awarded golf prizes to: Low gToss - first, Mike Crosby, 76; second, Gary Ganong, 80; and third, Steve Carson, 8 1. Low net- first , Mearl Horner, 72; second, Rusty Lauffer, 73 ; and third, Don Miller, Jr., 73. Longest drive - undeT 60 yeaTs old, Rusty Lauffe r; oveT 60, Bob Hopkinson. Straightest drive- Doug Miller. Closest to the pin - on No. 6, John Fair; No. 8, Bob Nemc hik; No. 11 , Jam es Hawk; and No. 14, Gary Soltys . Longes t putt- on No. 9, Mike Crosby, and No. 18, Tom Leonard.
Eighty-eight golfers p layed in the outing at Felicita Resort east of Harrisburg on Aug. 23. Russell W. Bake r, D.D.G.M., 5th Masonic District and Chairman of the Central Region Outing, along with Grand Master Ernette and the Honorary Regional Chairman, Robert L. Dluge, Jr., R.W. Deputy Grand Master, awarded golf prizes to: Low gToss - Jim Smith, 73; John Weibly, 76 ; and Mike Evangelista, 78. Low net - Bill Hauber, 72; Larry Miller, 72; and Alvin Skinner,
72. Closest to the p in - on No. 3, Bill Greet; on No. 7, Bill Hauber; on No. 17, Preston Van Deursen. Longest driveundeT 60 years old, Bill Hassinger; and oveT 60 , C. Dakin.
Again the weather was excellent, thou gh somewhat coole r for the 138 golfers playing in the sold-out Charity Go lf Outing at LuLu Country Club near Philadelphia on Aug. 30. After the round , Dale H. Fera, D.D.G.M. , Masonic District E and Chairman of the Eastern Region Outing, along with Grand Master Ernette and the Honorary Chairman, Marvin A Cunningham, Sr. , R.W. Senior Grand Warden, awarded golf prizes to: Low grossfirst, Ross Clyde, 76; second, Rovanik Mark, 79 and Mike Evangelista, 8 1. Low net first, Jeff Krchnavy; second, Rick Rankin; third, John Sunday; fouTth, Ed Miller; and fifth, Fred Wichterman.
Bnmswig Drug Corp.; BR&CF; Compudata Health Corp ; D J Sportswear; Directors Staff of Zembo Temple, AAONMS; Dorwrut, Andrew and Co.; 18th Masonic District School of Instruction; Ernie E. Latsha; E-town Dodge; GeoServices, Ltd. ; Hershock's, Inc.; Hoover Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. ; Houck & Co., Inc.; Hu epenbecker Enterprises , Inc.; JPC Specialty Fastening Systems; KPMG, LLP; Kronos , Inc.; Lee Wayne Corporation c/o Richard D. Bridgman; Liberty Mutual; Librandi's Machine Shop , Inc.; Lowther Manor Lodge No. 781, Camp Hill; M. H. Eby, Inc.; Marschall Associates; Mastercraft Specialties, Inc.; Mueller's Flower Shop; Newcomer Oil Corporation; Pro Solutions, Inc.; Ridgeview Farms, Inc.; Robert Burns Lodge No. 464, Harrisburg; Shepherds Unit, Zembo Temple, AAONMS; Sysco Food Services of Central PA, Inc.; Vickie L. and Jack L. Gillmore; West Shore Oil; Xpedx; Yorkaire , Inc.
Chance Meeting Recalls Memory of 50 Years
TWo past masters were introduced at the Masonic Homes and, in short order, discove red that they had fond memories of each other because of an event 50 years ago.
When Jeffrey L. Nale, D.D.G.M., 19th Masonic District (ce nter), who also is an Admission Counselor for the Masonic Homes, and his wife, Debbie, escorted James Doughten, P.M. (left), Union Lodge No. 324, Mifflintown, on a tour, they met Ke nneth March, P.M., Newport Lodge No 381, and his wife Pauline. Bro. March, who is the oldest living past master of his lodge and a retiree from Pennsylvania Power and Light Co., and Pauline are residents at the Masonic Homes and work as volunteers in the Grand Lodge Hall general store.
Pictured at the awards presentation of the Eastern Outing are (1-r): Ed Miller; Fred Wichterman; Mike Evangelista; Jeff Krchnavy; Rick Rankin; Grand Master Ernette; D.D.G.M. Fera; Robert Battle, C.E.O. of the primary sponsor, Smith Barney Capital Management; Clyde Ross; and John Sunday.
Closest to the pin- on No. 4, Dave Zinman; No. 6, John Carey; No. 12, Bill Haas; and No. 15 , Ralph Watson. Longest d r iveundeT 60 yeaTs old, Jeff Walte rs; and oveT 60, Dave Wilson. Straightest D rive- Joe Foley.
Sponsors at the resp ective outings were:
Western - Smith Barney Capital Management; ABB DaimlerBenz Transportation (North America) , Inc .; Ade lphoi Village, Inc .; All-B rite Window Cleaning; Atlas Software Technologies, Inc .; Closet Solutions; Dorwart, Andrew and Co.; Flynn's E.W. Tire Co.; Harvey F. Fishe l , D.D.G.M., 39th Masonic District; Irwin Bank and Trust Co.; Kattan- Ferretti Insurance Agency, Inc.; KPMG LLP; Mary Lee Travel Service, Inc .; 0 & S Machine Co., Inc.; Parkvale Savings Bank; Perkins E astman Architects PC; Richard J. Stemmler, D.D.G.M. , 30th Masonic District; Scientific Tool, Inc.; Scottish Rite Valley of Pittsburgh; Slater Funeral Service; Unity Printing Co., Inc.; Vee Neal Aviation; Ward Industries, Inc. ; Whe a tland Tube Co.; C. Harper Ch evrolet-GEO Buick, Inc.
Some of the winners at the Central Outing are (1-r): Jim Smith; John Weibley; R.W.D.G.M. Dluge; Grand Master Ernette; AI Skinner; and Mike Evangelista.
Central -Smith Barn ey Capital Management; R eese, Lower, Patrick and Scott; Rohrer Bus Service; Purcell Machine Company, Inc. ; First USA Bank, N.A.; Formex; Frank S. Miller Fune ral Home; Lancaster Health Alliance; P & J Printing; P erseverance Lodge No. 2 1, Harrisburg; Healthguard; Clark Associates, Inc.; Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, LLP; Ream Roofing Associates, Inc. ; UGI; Sollenberger Painting ; Warfel Co n struction Co ; B&G Lumb e r Co., Inc.; Bergen
Eastern - Smith Barney Capital Management; Lodge No.9, Tacony (Philade lphia); Concordia Lodge No. 67, Jenkintown; Olivet-Oriental Lodge No. 385, Philadelphia; University Lodge No. 51, Philadelphia; Contract Phrumacy Services, Inc.; Frankford Lodge No. 292; Tamburri Associates; Rampart Construction Company, Inc.; Albert V. Morrell; Mitchell Lodge No . 296; AAA. Welding Service , Inc.; Ace Welding Service, Inc.; Affinity Marketing Associates; Apple Construction, Inc.; Barry Brumett & Associates, Inc.; B enny the Bum's Crab House; Caddick Construction Company, Inc. ; Cellular Discounters , Inc. ; Chicago Olde Style Company; DiPinto-Mehl Funeral Home ; Dorwart, Andr ew and Co.; Dr. Edwin S. Hart, III; Formula Steel Fabricators, Inc.; Friendship Bray Chapter, DeMolay; Friendship-Willian1s Lodge No. 400, J e nkintown; Hiram 8 1 Masonic Hall, Chestnut Hill; Hi-Top Steel, Inc. ; House of Yarns, Inc.; J e nkintown Masonic School of Instruction; Joppa Council No. 46; Kensington -Kadosh Commandery No. 54; Martha B. Math ers Chapter, Rainbow for Girls; Mathew Dupee, Esquire ; McGraph Construction Company; Northeast Shrine Club; Omni Sales, Inc.; Peck, Young and Van Sant, Attorneys; Philad elphia Tool and Drilling Co., Inc. ; Richard Vaux Ivanhoe Lodge No. 384, Philadelphia; Self Heating & Cooling, Inc.; Shekinah Lodge No. 246, Chestnut Hill; Shiloh Lodge No. 558, Lansdale ; Tacony Lodge No. 600; Thomas R. Patton Lodge No. 659 , Philade lphia; Warren Lodge No. 310, Co ll egeville; William P e nn Lodge No. 732, Philadelphia; Wolner Insurance Management, Inc .; Netlisters, Inc.
Guest at the Eastern Outing, James Kinch (right), son of William Kinch of Mozart Lodge No. 436, Philadelphia, won the putting contest conducted by Thomas Toscani, P.M. , a member of the Charity Golf Committee
Shortly after the introduction, Bro. Doughten commented that he was graduated from the Patton School. In1mediately, Bro. March remembered that 50 years ago h e had presented an award in carpentry to a young man by the same name. Bro. Doughten is that "young man" who has been a skilled carpenter in Mifflintown for half a century.
The District Deputy was amazed, asking: "What are the chances that, after 50 years, these two brothers - both past m asters o f the 19th District - would be reintroduced while on a tour of the Masonic Homes?"
Masons' Charitable Support Earns Masonic Homes Highest Financial Ratings
The Masonic Homes of the Grand Lo dge of Pennsylvani a has been in operation s inc e 1910 and continues to experien ce growth and expand services while maintaining financial stability. The organization's financial strength was recogniz ed recently by Standa rd & Poor 's and Moody 's Inv estors Service.
Standard & Poor 's gave the Masonic Homes an AA-rating, an upgrade from their previous A+ rating. The Masonic Hom es is the on ly continuing care retirement community in the country to be given this high rat ng by Standard & Poor's.
The report issued by Standard & Poor 's reflects on the Masonic Homes' st r ong financ ial standing and fund-rai sing efforts: "The Ma so nic organization in Pennsylvania has a l ways received generous support from its members. This support s evidenced by annua l fund -raising campaigns that provide substantia l operat ing support."
Moody's assigned the Masonic Home s an A-1 underlying rating , and credited the organization for having a sol id market position due to its long established history and fraternal affil i ation. Their report states: "We believe Mason ic Homes lon g and established 90-year history, diverse and growing service array, and fraternal affiliation will support strong dema nd int o the foreseeable future."
Both grou p s r ated t he Masonic Homes with a st abl e outlook.
Dming a "Special Ser vi ce of Rede dication" on Aug. 29, the Masonic Homes co nu nunity cel ebrate d the e nhance ments m ade to the John S Se ll Memorial Chape l. Th e original corner ston e was laid for Sell Chapel on De c. 5, 1925. Now, almost 74 ye ars later, an addition on t h e east s ide of the Chapel is complet e.
The new space includes a th ree-flo or e le vator and lobby, a parlor, r est r ooms , m emory garden, and a lobby. There a lso is a covere d drop-off area from a n ew parldng lot to t h e n orth of t h e exis tin g Chapel and addition.
The e levato r provides access from t h e basement tmmel level of t he Chapel to the main floor and t h e balcony to impro ve the a ccessibility of these areas for re s idents. The new parldng lot also provides mu ch easie r a ccess along the Village Green area roadways.
The additi on was constructed of sto n e matchin g th e existing structme to complement the aesth etics of th e Chap e l. The memory garden is in the interior courtyard form e d anudst the sanctuary, th e parlor, elevator lobby, and main lobby.
Rev. Ch arles H. Lacquem en t , D.D. , and Rev. A. Preston Van Demsen , the new Director of Pastoral Care presided over the rededicatio n service. Pastor Lacquement delivere d t h e sermon a nd the Men 's Ch orus performed.
"We have gath er ed as a family of God to celebrate with thanksgiving th e n ew addition of t his s anctuary and to r ededicate this e ntir e s anctuary to the glory of God ," P as t or Van Dem se n said . "Receive tills house afresh for your gl ory," h e co ntinu e d, "as we dedicate it and om-se lves to yom service."
Pastor
Front view of Sell Chapel ...,. Rear View of Sell Chapel, showing the new parking lot and covered drop·off area
After th e Chapel was forn1ally rededicated, the Co nmuttee on Masonic Homes, resid ents, and e mplo yees attended an evening worshlp s ervice in honor of Pas t or Lacqu ement, when he was installed as Pastor Em eritus of the Masonic Homes of th e Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
Rev. Kenneth A. Crei tz, Ass ociate Pas tor, delivered the Call to Wors hip , and Pastor Van Demsen delive red the sermon. T he Men's Chorus and Wom en s Chorus perf ormed, and as a special touch Michelle Swope , Pas tor Lacquem ent's dau ght e r , p erfo rm ed th e organ pr elude and postlude.
Pasto r Lacqu e m ent r etired on Sept. 1, 1999, after 26 years of servic e t o the Masoni c Homes. He co ntinu es to serve as a Grand Chaplain of t h e Grand Lodge of P e nns ylvania, Grand Pryo r of the P e nnsylvania Co un c il of De lib e rat ion of the Scottish Rite , and Chaplain of the High 12 Club in Elizab ethtown.
Looking for Nursing, Assisted Living or Rehab Services? Masonic Homes Provide Them Across the State!
The Masonic Eastern Star Home-East in Warminster a nd the Masonic Eastern Star Home-West in Pittsburgh have immediate availability in their assiste d living areas. This level of service is for individuals who desire to be independent but require some daily help with getti ng dressed , taking medications , transportation, or bathing.
The Valley Care Masonic Center in Sewickley currently has openings for nursing home care
Subacute and rehabilitation services are also available now in three of the four locations: Elizabethtown , Sewickley, and Warminster. Persons who require skilled care following a hospital stay or need com plex medica l management , may receive those services at o ne of the
Some of the advantages of staying at one of the three homes for rehabilitation includes: cost-saving services, safe homelike environment , state-of-the art facilitie s, and professional staff
For info rmat ion on the serv ices a vailable at each of the locatio ns, call the Admissions Offices: Elizabethtown: (800) 422-1207 or Pitt s burgh: Sewickley: Wa rminster: (7 17 ) 367-1121, ext. 33101 ( locally ) ( 412) 931-8300 (4 12 ) 741-1400 (215) 6 72-25 00
Grand .Ma:;tszr':; <f>ag 1999
Grand Master's Day at the Masonic Ho mes in Elizabethtown was h eld on Sept. 25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Approximately 7,000 atte nd ees e(\joyed vis its from frie ndly, fwl-loving clowns , de licious "Homes"-made food , musical en tertainme nt, amazin g jugglers, the popular r eside n t talent s how, g uid ed to urs, and Masonic information booths an d displays. It was a great d ay of fwl , exciteme nt, and fellowship, as Pennsylvania Maso ns , their families and fiiends , e (\joye d the annual open house and ce lebratio n .
Lacquement and his wife, Connie, greet Bro. and Mrs. Carl Flohr after the special worship service in honor of Pastor Lacquement.
1. R.W. Grand Master Ernette greets the crowd in the Village Green Circle. 2. The Zembo Shrine Chanters were enjoyed by the young and the young at heart. 3. Clowns rejuvenate with hot dogs and sausage sandwiches... YUM! 4. Resident Claribelle Ludwig with a mime. 5. Marissa and Bryce Merlet created spin art masterpieces. 6. Independent Living residents sell crafts.
Reserve Now and Move In Later!
Independent Living cottages are popular, and selling fast!
Independent Living Renovations Complete!
The Independent Li ving Clubhouse has been the hub of activity for Independent Living residents since that level of service was first offered by the Masonic Homes in Elizabethtown in 1990. Due to the expansion and growth of the Indep endent Living areas on campus, plans to renovate and upgrade the Club house began in the spring of 1998.
Residential Living in the Village Green Area of the Masonic Homes in Elizabethtown
GEOR GIA ON OUR MIND
Anyone considering a move to an Independent Living apartment or cottage at the Masonic Homes Retirement Campus in Elizabethtown should act now.
Although there is a waiting list for ce1tain units, there are some apartments and cottages currently availab le for immediate reservation. They are going quickly, and it's anticipated that there will be a waiting list for all areas of Independent Living in the near future.
The normal move-in process takes three to four months after selecting an accommodation , which means there is sufficient time to make the ne c essary preparations for the move to a new and r e warding lifestyle at the Masonic Homes.
Considering the Masoni c Hom es' history of e x cellence and solid financial ratings , there is great peace of mind in living in a community with such s tability.
If you or y our spouse are at least age 65 and possess a Pennsylvania Masonic or Eastern Star affiliation ( call for specific details ), call to arran ge an appointm ent with a Masonic Homes counselor You will get a tour of this top-rate d facility so you can select a unit that b est fits your n eeds. Call 1-800-676-6452, or complete and mail the coupon.
The Independent Li ving Clubhouse renovations include enlargement of the Keystone Room, a large meeting room for residents; construction of a cafe; beautification of the lobby area, libr ar y, and hair care center ; and the addition of a lounge, located just off the lob by.
The cafe replaces the coffee shop that previously seated 30, and was open Monday through Saturday for breakfast and lunch. The new cafe offers an enhanced menu, new services, and additional seating that wil serve up to 66 for breakfast, lunch , and dinner Monday through Saturday.
The atmosphere at the cafe is casual and reservations are not required. Th e cafe is cash-based; however, res idents may use their mea l p an option if they choose
"The r enovation of the entire Clubhou se, including the cafe, wa s in response to the inter est s and preferences of the residents to have the space rede signed for their enjoyment," said Joseph E. Murphy, Executive Director/ CEO.
A variety of r eside ntial options are available imme dia te ly in tl1e b eautiful Village Gre en Area for individuals w ho d e sire indep e nd e n ce without the daily h o use hold chores Se rvic e s in this are a include three m eals daily in the be autiful Grand Lodge Hall dining room , biwee kly hous e k eeping services , personal la undry ser vi ces , transp01tation, activities , outpatient m e di c al s e rvi ces , 24-hour e mergen cy nurs e call response , and all utilities (excep t te lephone and c able, which are optional)
Conveniently lo ca te d within walking distance are a pos t office, library, gift shop , general s tore , c hapel, ice c r ean1 parlor, r ecr e ational area, lod ge room, and ballroom w h e re Masonic lodge s and Eastern Star c h a pte rs m eet. Parking is a v ailable, although transportation is pro vi d e d to shopping malls, m e dical a pp o intme n ts, and othe r a c tiviti es.
Admissions r e prese n tatives are a v ailable t o show life first-hand in th e R eside ntial Living Area. If you prefe r to m ee t wi th s ome one in your home to h e ar more abou t R eside ntial Living options, a visit c an be arranged with one of the counse lo rs For more information , or t o sch e dule an a ppointme n t for a tour, c all 1-800-422- 120 7.
A view of the Grand L odge HaU building f rom the fm7na l ga?·dens in the Vi llag e GTeen A Te a of the Mas onic Homes in Elizab eth town
The Masonic Children's Home residents enjoyed a fun summer. The h ghl ight was when the staff took the children on group vacations. Th e Smith Cottage of elementary school-age children and the Eisenlohr Cottage h igh school girls went to Ocean City, MD. The Baehr Cottage girls had a fun week in Ocean City, NJ , while the Llo yd Cottage boys went to Williamsburg , VA.
The young men of Harrison Cottage vacationed at the Georgia Masonic Home Camp near Savannah. Because it was very hot there, the boys spent much of their time riding in boats , swimming, or tubing in the nearby river.
The boys even f ished in the Atlantic Ocean in boats provided by a loca l Masonic lodge. Sea turtles, dolphins, and Spanish mackerel were a few of the " ocean critters" they encountered. They were even up close to an all igato r! Three young men and staff members fr om the Masonic Children's Home in Macon, GA, also were at the camp. The boys enjoyed chicken, crab, and various other entrees. It is hoped that this wi ll be the beginning of a yearly exchange program with Masonic ch ld ren's homes throughout the country.
Residents enjoy refreshments and socialization as they celebrate the grand re-opening of the Clubhouse on September 1, 1999
1. ) Llo yd Cottage boys in Williamsburg, Va.
2 ) S mi t h Cottage children at Ocean City, MD
3 . ) Bae h r Cotta ge girls at Ocean City, NJ
4 ) E i senlohr Cottage girls at Ocean City, MD
5 . ) Har ris o n Cottage boys at the Masonic Home Cam p i n Savannah, Ga .
An aerial view of the Independent Living Community apartments
Photos :
Residential/Respite Cottage is Home to Many
To some, it's home... to others, it's a home away from home. The Masonic Homes Residential/Respite Cottage opened in March 1998 to serve adults with mild to moderate mental retardation. Four adults now live there permanently, enjoying their independenc e and support provided by their caregivers. They also enjoy the company of other adults who come to stay for short peliods, since the program still admits up to four adults at a time for short-term respite care. The progran1 serves as a temporary home for these special adults, which allows their par-
Susan Val e , the cottage's first resident, spends some quiet t ime i n her room.
PA Masons Recognized for D.A.RE. Support
ents or care-givers to take a vacation or spend some personal time free from their care-giving responsibilities.
Wifuin the eating, secure enviromnent of the Masonic Homes , the program provides quality services to ensure the well-being of the individuals during their stay. The warm, inviting cottage is staffed by friendly, compassionate, and experienced professionals who work with the philosophy that the residents and guests deserve dignity and respect. The staff cares for each individual's medical and physical needs, including the administration of m e dications. But more important, they embrace the holistic approach to providing exceptional care for the mind, body, and spirit within a nurturing environment
The Masonic Homes Respite Cottage provides three nutritious meals a day and snacks, social and recreational activities, and assistance with personal care.
For furth e r information about the
THREE GENERATIONS IN LODGE
Respite Cottage or to schedule a tour, visit or short-tenn respite stay, call (717) 367-1121, ext. 3375 1, or wlite to: Respite Cottage, Masonic Homes , One Masonic Dlive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022.
GIFT FROM THE EASTERN STAR
D. D.G.M. Presents Aid Grant an d Scholarship
With in weeks, Richard J. Stemmler (second fr om left), D.D.G.M. 30th Masonic District , presented a $5,000 financial assistance grant from the Samuel Davis Bequest to Mrs. Carole Echard, widow of the late Bro. Alex A. Echard, Marion Lodge No. 562, Scottsda le , t hen a $2,000 Lawrence Dietrich Smith Memoria l Scholarship to their son, Trent Echard (top photo). Participating in both presentations were Terry Grath (left), W.M., and David F. Hillegas (right ), Secretary of Marion Lodge.
The Samuel Davis Bequest is grante d by the Grand Lodg e to assist families in caring for minor children of deceased P ennsy lvania Masons. The grant is based on need and there is a special application which must be completed by the parent or guard ian.
The Lawrence Dietrich Smith Scholarship is awarded by the Pennsy lvania Youth Foundation, an extension of the Grand Lodge, to young people who have a Masonic relative, or who are members of a Mason ic-sponsored youth group. Trent was graduated from Southmoreland Hi gh School where he was valedictorian in th e Class of 1999. He wi ll be attend in g Carnegie Mellon University majoring in Politic al Science.
Tribute
An in spiring biographical monograph was wr itt en and publ ished by Robert L. Engel, Armstrong Lodg e No. 239 , Free por t , as a tribute to the late Bro . William Boling Meredith ( 1839-1924) of Kittanning , a financier, businessman , public ser vant, State Senator , military veteran , and lifelong dedicated Mason . Bro. Meredith posted outstanding records of service to York Rite Masonry as Most Ex cellent Grand High Priest of the Grand Hol y Arch Chapter of Pennsylvania in 1907 and 1908 and to the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania as a Di strict Deputy Grand Master for 51 years , from 1 873 until his death in 1924. (Bro. Enge l served as Most Ex cellent Grand High Priest of the Grand Holy Arch Chapter of Pennsy lvania in 1993 and 1994 and is serving as an e lect ed member of the Committee on the Masonic Homes of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania . )
Stenberg Scholarship Awarded Quarterly Communication Dec. 1; Annual Grand on Dec. 27
On behalf of th e P e nnsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, Lt. Gov. Mark Schweiker
presented R.W. Grand Master James L. Ernette with a plaque giving special recognitio n to the Masons of Pennsylvania for the outstanding support of D.A.R.E. and its programs by th e Pennsylv ania Masonic Foundation for Children Law enforcement officers fro m all over the Commonwealth are trained for th e D.A.R.E. progran1 at the Masonic Conference Ce nter on t he Patton Campus at Elizabethtown.
It became three generations of Masons from the same family in Libert y Lodge No. 505 , Port Allegany, when James D. Gustafson, J.W. (r ight ), conferred the three deg rees on his son, Da vi d ( center), last November, Januar y, and February. The new Mason ' s grandfather , J. Howard Gustafso n , is at the left
During the Grand Master's Day fes ti vit ies, Je an D. Fey, Worthy Grand Matron, and officers of Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania Order of the Eastern Star presented a check for $43,200 to Jam es L. Ernette, R.W. Grand Master, and officers of the Grand Lodge of Pennsy lvan ia, for the construction of a gazebo and handicapped-acces s ible wa lkway at the Mason ic Homes in El izabethtown.
Jason P iskopus (ce nter) , a graduat e of Bell e Vernon High School, was awarded one of th e R.W. Past Grand Master Carl W. Stenberg, Jr., scholars hip s of $ 1,000 a year for four years. He plans to atte nd th e University of Pittsburgh to major in microbiolo gy. The pres entation was mad e by Jose ph F. Acto n (se cond fro m left) , D.D.G.M., 3 1s t Masonic District. Particip at ing in the pre sentation were (1-r ) : Gregory Zborovancik, hi gh sc h ool Vice Principal ; Bro. Acton; Jason Piskopus ; Mrs. Stella Kosco , a school nurse; and Mrs. Carol e Coccio lone, a t eac h er and Stude n t Ass istan ce Prog ram Team Co unselor.
The December Quarterly Co mmunication and Election of Officers will be 10:00 a.m., We dn es day, Dec. 1 in Co rinthian Hall of the Masonic Temple, Philadelphia. The business of the Grand Lod ge wi ll determine the sc h edul e for lunch. There wi ll b e a Grand Master's Banque t at the Philadelphia Marriott with entertainment by "Up With People" in the eve ning. There will be a social r eception at 5:00p.m. and diruler at 6:00p.m. (See r eservation coupon at right.)
The Annual Grand Co mmunication of th e Grand Lodge of Penns ylv ania and the installation of the new Grand Mas t er and Electe d Officers will be Monday, Dec. 27, in the Hershey Lodge and Convention Center Grand Lodge will open at 10:00 a. m. , and th e ins tallation of t h e Grand Mas te r will be at noon. Lun ch will follo w the Co mmunication. A gala Grand Master's banquet and outstanding s how are p lanned for the evenin g in th e n ew Red , White and Blue Ballrooms of
the Great American Hall in the remodeled Hershey Convention Center. (See m ore inform ation and
Beth Weiman, res ident, lil<es to color at the dinin g room tab le
