VillageVoice Wisdom and Wonder p. 8
23 14
5
8
Fall 2021
18
Vol. 31, No. 4 The Masonic Villages include locations in Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill, Sewickley and Warminster. Submissions for the winter issue of the Village Voice are due Dec. 15. Public Relations Department Masonic Village, One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022 For more information, call Masonic Village’s Public Relations Office at 717-367-1121, ext. 33383 or email pr@masonicvillages.org.
2
Inside this Issue 3 Accolades All Around 4 A Walk of Art
The Masonic Villages is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
5 Remembering 20 Years Later
Decisions concerning admission, the provision of services and referrals of residents are not based upon the applicant’s race, color, religion, disability, ancestry, national origin, familial status, age, sex, limited English proficiency or any other protected status.
22 Celebrating the Holidays with a Loved One in a Longterm Care Community
Fall 2021 Issue
6 A Firm Foundation
24 Support the Masonic Villages this Holiday
COVER STORIES Wisdom and Wonder 9 The Weather Bug 10 Putting Military Weapons to the Test 12 Professional Problem Solver 14 Planting with Purpose and Passion 18 Solving Life's Mysteries
25 Memorial Gifts
20 Behind the Scenes
27 Honorarium Gifts
On the cover: Merr Trumbore (see his story on p. 10).
Accolades All Around
Many staff, residents and family members already agree Masonic Villages is among the best in providing retirement living, nursing, personal care and other services. Being recognized with various awards and achievements reinforces our already strong commitment to serving those in our care. As rated by residents and families, the Masonic Villages at Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill and Sewickley have been recognized as the “Best of” in senior living by SeniorAdvisor.com, putting them in the top 2-3% of senior care providers in the United States and Canada. “We were attracted to the Masonic Village community because of the emphasis on healthy senior lifestyle, agreeable financial arrangement, aesthetic, wellappointed housing and diligent maintenance. Staff is friendly, attentive and helpful. In our three months here, we have not been disappointed,” John and Charlotte Kuczyinski, residents of Masonic Village at Dallas, wrote on SeniorAdvisor.com.
The Best of 2021 Awards recognize outstanding senior living providers that have received consistently high ratings from residents and their families. Masonic Village at Elizabethtown was voted among the best Senior Living Communities by readers of Lancaster Magazine. It was also named “Best Overall” by Verywell Health on their list of “Best Retirement Communities, 2021.” As shared on Verywell’s website: “When looking for a retirement community that has everything to offer and then some, Masonic Village fits the bill with its 1,400 acres of farmland, multiple dining options, numerous activity options, and much more ... Masonic Village reminds us of a fancy university campus, without the classes and exams. If you are looking to escape the pace of a big city and want to retire in beautiful Pennsylvania, then Masonic Village is a great choice.” High Five Congratulations all around to our personal care, skilled nursing and memory care staff and health care administrators at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, Sewickley, Lafayette Hill and Warminster, whose exemplary performance contributed to 5-Star Quality Assurance ratings at each location for July and August through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services!
MasonicVillages.org
3
A Walk of Art Inspired by art walks in Wilkes-Barre and Pittston, Masonic Village at Dallas’ Walther Apartments featured an Art Walk this summer, showcasing photography and art by residents Vi Gommer (above left) and Charlotte Kindler (above right). Located in Luzerne County, Dallas is a buzzing hub for arts, culture and entertainment, including next door Misericordia University’s Pauly Friedman Art Gallery, so it’s no surprise Masonic Village residents have a variety of artistic talents and interests. Led by Carolyn Bosak, executive assistant, residents plan to rotate new artists throughout the year. Carolyn has been decorating the building for years for different seasons and thought showcasing residents’ creations would be a nice, personal touch.
“I was impressed by both these residents’ talents, and I thought this was a way for residents to get to know their neighbors,” Carolyn said. “It also provided residents a wellness component – walking and positivity.”
At a friend’s suggestion, Charlotte took an art course at Luzerne County Community College to help her as she grieved the sudden loss of her husband. “A whole new world opened up for me,” she said. “The course was not only therapeutic for my grief, but it made me discover a talent I didn’t know I had. I was addicted. If I couldn’t sleep at night, I would paint into the wee hours of the morning.” Charlotte has entered pieces in art shows, winning awards and selling some of her work. Vi has always enjoyed photography and has numerous albums of her work. She especially loves nature photography, and her collection includes local scenes and international ones. Alongside her husband, Chuck, a retired pastor, she led volunteer mission trips all over the world, including Africa, Russia, Haiti and Cuba, building clinics, churches and schools. A nurse, Vi applied her skills in clinics and taught staff, patients and families. Her photos have been showcased at The Lands at Hillside Farms, turned into framed art and covers for blank note cards and included in Mason Crest books, which “has been a high point in my photographic work,” she said. Residents look forward to future campus art displays, which add color and inspire conversation.
4
Fall 2021 Issue
REMEMBERING 20 Years Later Twenty years ago, America was changed forever by the events of Sept. 11. Residents across the state remembered the anniversary of this fateful day by sharing personal experiences. Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill resident Lee Lowry gave a presentation on Sept. 10, 2021, based on his experience as a resident of Shanksville, Pennsylvania, on Sept. 11, 2001. Shanksville came to international attention that day when United Airlines Flight 93 crashed in adjacent Stonycreek Township. The plane hit so hard, the ground swallowed it up. “Each of you have memories of that day,” Lee said. “… After the crash, I visited the site. I felt like I was walking into a church. I never felt that before. It went from a neighborhood I knew to a church. It had that much personal meaning to it.” Masonic Village at Dallas residents held an outdoor 9/11 remembrance ceremony (above left), which included patriotic piano music from resident Sharon Lewis. Sharon and her husband, Dan, installed a flag pole outside their villa, and a neighbor, Maggie Sock, suggested they dedicate it with a flag raising on Sept. 11.
“We have a tremendous amount of pride in our military and first responders,” Dan, a U.S. Air Force veteran, said, “and we’re also proud and thankful for all the rights and privileges we have living in the United States.” On Sept. 11, 2001, Masonic Village at Elizabethtown resident Mal Fuller (above right) was working as an air
traffic controller and watch supervisor of the Pittsburgh International Airport’s control tower and radar room. Following the attacks on the World Trade Center buildings and subsequent attack on the Pentagon, the FAA stopped all air traffic and forced all planes in the air to land — something Mal had never seen before in his career. A controller then yelled to him, “Mal, I need you here.” “I could clearly tell by the sound of his voice that there was something very wrong,” Mal said. Mal quickly learned a plane, later identified as United Flight 93, had been hijacked and most likely had a bomb on board. Based on the data from the radar screen, they assumed the Pittsburgh tower was a target. This led to an evacuation of the building. Mal was one of the last to leave; there were several people using wheelchairs, and he wanted to make sure they had gotten out. “When I returned to the radar room, Flight 93 had either crashed or was about to crash,” he said. Mal is a founding member of the Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville and served on the organization’s board. “The memorial is a living thing. It is designed to promote healing,” he said. As part of his healing process — and that of the entire country — Mal has spoken at Masonic Village about his experience and tours the United States lecturing on “9/11 and the Heroes of Flight 93.”
MasonicVillages.org
5
A Firm FOUNDATION Residents Emory and Kathaleen Billingsley were just 14 years old when they began exchanging 3-cent love letters back and forth after meeting at a summer camp. Ever since, they’ve been inseparable. On Sept. 15, they celebrated a unique and lucky milestone: their 70th wedding anniversary. Better yet, they celebrated by going on a trip with their daughter, Bonnie Motsay, who lives just a few streets over at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Emory and Kathaleen had talked about how it would be special to visit Atlantic City again for their 70th anniversary because it’s where they spent their honeymoon. One evening after dinner, Kathaleen mentioned this to Bonnie, and Bonnie began searching for places to stay to make their wish come true. She started planning the September trip last February and surprised her parents with the news shortly after. Emory and Kathaleen both agreed they were “very excited” when Bonnie told them about the plan. “The first time we went there, for our honeymoon, we were there for a day and a half. We didn’t have much time or money since Emory was serving in the Army 6
Fall 2021 Issue
and was ordered to go to Germany, so we rented a car and drove to Atlantic City,” Kathaleen said. “We also went there for our 60th anniversary. It’s very special.” Bonnie’s companion, Nelson; her brother, Duane; and her sister-in-law, Sharon, attended the trip as well.
“ Atlantic City is definitely sentimental, and the trip was so special,” Bonnie said. “We stayed in Sea Isle City, and we drove down to Atlantic City on their anniversary in the afternoon to walk on the boardwalk just like they did 70 years ago!” Following the trip, they continued the anniversary celebration by attending church at Sell Chapel and enjoying a luncheon at Masonic Village with three generations of their family. “This is all happening because two people fell in love 70 years ago,” Bonnie's daughter, Amber, said at the reunion. In addition to Bonnie and Duane, the Billingsleys had a son, Ron, who is deceased. They also have four grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
Emory and Kathaleen hold many places, aside from Atlantic City, near and dear to their hearts. They’ve traveled all over the world, including to Egypt, Switzerland, Holland and The Holy Lands. They even lived in Israel for two months as hosts in hotels and were tour hosts in Europe.
“ Emory and I do everything together. We are very seldom separated,” Kathaleen said. Bonnie said that “closeness” is why her parents have had such a loving and fulfilling marriage the past 70 years. Additionally, faith has played a key role in their relationship, as both Emory and Kathaleen have been heavily involved in church. Emory was a United Methodist pastor for 43 years and was a visitation pastor at Masonic Village and St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. Kathaleen’s role in the church has been “everything,” from organizing activities to singing in the choir. “It’s meant a lot that Kathaleen has always been helpful in my ministry to people,” Emory said. “We are deeply centered around faith, and it has deeply helped our relationship.” Communication has been another pillar of their relationship, Bonnie said, and of their entire family.
“We just have the best time sitting at the table and talking,” Bonnie said. “We’re not a game family, and we don’t need to turn on the TV. We just talk. We love to talk.” Emory said their family talks about “everything and anything,” and it’s important Kathaleen and he always talk through issues “even if it makes for a long night” because they “never go to bed angry.” Family Reunion Now that Bonnie lives at Masonic Village, she can talk to her parents whenever she wants. Because of this, Bonnie said “there isn’t a day that goes by” that she doesn’t feel “truly blessed.” “It’s so wonderful to live near my parents again. There’s not too many people here who have their The Bowman’s parents Weddinghere, Photoso I’m very fortunate,” Bonnie said.
Bonnie described living with her parents here as coming full circle, and it reminds her of happy childhood memories and of their constant support. She described her father as her “rock” and her mother as her “soft landing spot.” “In high school, mom would wave to me at the front door every day when I was leaving for school. Now, mom stands at the front door here and waves to me every night when I’m leaving,” Bonnie said. “She doesn’t understand how meaningful that is to me and how much I think about that.” Bonnie, Emory and Kathaleen have dinner together every night and “reminisce” on all the good times they’ve shared. Emory and Kathaleen joked that it’s an adjustment living by their daughter again, but they are thankful to be so close.
“ We’ve learned we have the support we’ve wanted and needed,” Kathaleen said. “She’s given it to us, and it’s a good feeling.” Bonnie is still full of excitement from the Atlantic City trip and looks forward to continuing to enjoy time with her parents. “They’ve really helped me, and I’ve helped them. I’m always here for them,” Bonnie said. “You never know what tomorrow holds, so love every minute you’re here.” By Katy Shero, public relations associate/intern
From 1949 MasonicVillages.org
7
Wisdom & Wonder Science, the study of the natural systems and behaviors that make up our bodies and our world, takes us places we never thought possible. From inside the human body to edges of the solar system, those who’ve dedicated their lives to healing, building and improving our lives and the environment around us, have a special set of skills, knowledge and dedication. Our residents and staff have used their curiosity and sense of wonder to make a mark on our world for the greater good.
8
Fall 2021 Issue
up to 25 miles away. It doesn’t predict the weather, but it shows the current weather conditions,” Joe said. Joe said the app allows him to access the different features, and, as a result, he’s able to easily follow along with the weather any time of the day.
“I like to watch the weather because it’s always something different,” Joe said. “My family will call me and ask, ‘Do you agree with what the weatherman is saying?’” Prior to living at Masonic Village, Joe had a weather station for five years at his York County home. He’s had about four or five weather stations in total throughout his life. Navigating weather stations is no problem for Joe, as he considers himself a “tech savvy” individual and worked in electronics for 40 years. Currently, he’s the “go-to man” for electronics in his apartment building. Joe is just as interested in being involved at Masonic Village as he is in weather. He’s also the Retirement Living Association building representative and uses his technology skills to volunteer his help with the lights, camera and sound in Deike auditorium. Joe’s involvement with Job’s Daughters youth group for 30 years piqued his interest in living at Masonic Village.
The WEATHER BUG Joe Fink has never had a big television news debut as a weatherman, but this hasn’t weakened the powerful and passionate storm inside of him for weather.
His love for it struck him initially when he was a child, and he’s been enthusiastic about weather ever since. “I was close with my uncle, who was a geography and weather schoolteacher for junior and senior high. He was always pointing out cloud formations, and that put the weather bug into me,” Joe said. “It hung on from that point on.” Now, Joe has taken this love to Masonic Village at Elizabethtown by having his own weather station right outside of his apartment in the Smith North Building. The weather station stands 10 feet tall, is battery operated and continuously updates through an app. “It transmits into the house display and transmits online to the Weatherunderground app. There are numerous features, and it can detect lightning strikes
“This place has been very special to me. When I lived in Maytown, I spent a lot of my time here because I was always amazed with the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown,” Joe said. “I remember seeing the gentlemen sitting outside on the porch at Grand Lodge Hall, when they used to dress up in white shirts and ties, wishing that I might live here someday. Living here has been a dream fulfiller.” Joe also dressed up as Santa this past year and visited apartments and residents all over campus during the holidays. He said he enjoys bringing residents joy and helping them feel involved, too. “I started being Santa in York County, and I have my own Santa suit,” Joe said. “It’s been a family tradition.” Joe has lived around the area the majority of his life and graduated from Donegal High School. He also served in the U.S. Navy for eight years. Despite whatever he’s a part of, the weather bug stays with him. “Lots of times, I go into the dining room and the guys I know ask me how the weather is doing,” Joe said. “Being a weatherman must be the best job ever. What other job can you be wrong every day and still keep your job?” By Katy Shero, public relations associate/intern MasonicVillages.org
9
Putting Military Weapons TO THE TEST It doesn’t take a degree in rocket science to test and evaluate weapons for the U.S. Government. Rather, it takes a degree in physics and an individual named Merr Trumbore. Merr, a resident of Masonic Village at Dallas, spent over 20 years as, what he describes, a “professional tester and evaluator for United States and foreign weapon systems.” His unique career began after graduating from Liberty High School in Bethlehem in 1954. He joined the workforce right after graduation and continued to work in the steel mills as he attended college. He graduated from then Moravian College (now Moravian University) in 1962 with a dual major in physics and math. Merr relocated with his newlywed wife, Lois, to Rising Sun, Maryland, to work at Aberdeen Proving Ground.
“ I knew in college that I didn’t want to get stuck in a lab and was happier in the hands-on community,” Merr said.
10
Fall 2021 Issue
“I chose this field because I always had an analytical mind, and physics was the most challenging major to get in school.” He worked at Aberdeen Proving Ground until his retirement in 1988. While there, he had a career filled with testing weapons, traveling the world and representing the U.S. Government in weapon testing programs. The testing and evaluation consisted of Army weapon systems and infantry, mortar, rifles, artillery and more. “Let’s say a military guy is a ‘user.’ The ‘user’ decides he wants to replace an existing piece of hardware or new mortar, so he comes up with a list of requirements for it, like how many components it needs or a maximum and minimum use range,” Merr explained. “He then submits this, and as testers and evaluators, we sit down and generate an evaluation plan. We go through all phases of testing, and then submit the plan in different areas to see how it functions in the natural environment.” Merr said part of his job also included simulating testing environments at Aberdeen, which was “very expensive and detailed,” and analyzing data and concluding results to submit in reports.
At one point in his career, he was selected to go to Norway and make decisions on the outcome of a mortar fuze testing program for the United States and whether they would adopt a fuze or not. He said this was a proud moment in his career because it was “quite a responsibility,” and if he would have made a wrong decision, it could have been a very “costly mistake” for our government. He has also traveled to Panama, Germany and throughout the United States. Occasionally, Merr had the opportunity to take Lois with him if he was traveling to the East Coast.
“ I loved traveling, and the people I met, especially in Norway, were wonderful,” Merr said. “It was very rewarding to represent our government all over.” During his time at Aberdeen, Merr was consistently inspired by one of his role models, General Samuel Koster, who was Deputy Commander of the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command. “I really admired him. He was someone I looked up to in my career because he was a man of true honesty and a true gentleman,” Merr said. Merr also looked up to Benny Bass, a supervisor in the ammunition area, who shared some life advice: “Merr, never admit to being an expert; there is always someone who knows more than you do.” Another role model throughout Merr’s life was his father, who he referred to as his “best friend.” Merr’s father had to support and educate himself to eventually become a machinist and draftsman. His work ethic was an inspiration for Merr. Merr was a role model himself for part of his career, serving as a section chief and leading eight to 10 engineers and technicians, which was “challenging” because he thought they were smarter than him. His duties also included working with a team to check for deficiencies in weapons before they were approved for military use. “I’m content that I was a part of fielding superior weapon systems for the United States Army,” Merr said. “I’m really proud of that community.” Merr has been at Masonic Village at Dallas since 2014 and “couldn’t be more pleased.” He enjoys socializing with his neighbors, going for walks and being a part of the local community.
“ I am a huge sports fan, and I like it here because it offers the opportunity to be around lots of sports teams,” Merr said. “The academic world is great, too, because the schools offer lectures we’re welcome to attend, and there are countless musical programs.” Merr was previously an avid tennis player, starting at age 13, and he even played table tennis for a while. He also loves attending concerts, specifically the Philadelphia Orchestra, which he says has the “best string section in the world.” “I love any kind of music, but I absolutely loved attending their concerts,” Merr said. “I always looked forward to those Friday matinees.” Though he doesn’t practice physics or anything careerrelated anymore, Merr spends time warmly reminiscing about his career at Aberdeen with pride and gratefulness. “It was never boring and always rewarding,” Merr said. “I have no regrets.” By Katy Shero, public relations associate/intern
MasonicVillages.org
11
A Professional Problem Solver Every morning, Ed Flounders starts his day off with a crossword puzzle and a cryptogram. Ed loves exercising his brain and sharpening his problem-solving skills. “Solving a good problem is like eating a filet mignon steak,” Ed, a resident of Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, said. “It’s so satisfying. It’s like a gorgeous meal.” Solving problems is no problem, and nothing new, for Ed. He’s made a career out of it by working in a variety of engineering and business fields throughout his life. If people ask, he’d say he was an engineer. “You could also say I was a rocket scientist. People make jokes about how it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to do something, but I was literally one,” Ed said. Ed began his career by obtaining a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Penn State University and a master’s from Lehigh University. He was the first in his family to graduate from college, and he took a variety of courses while there.
“ If you’re an engineer, you’ve got your nose into it all. I wanted to learn as much as I could about everything,” Ed said. Ed certainly did get his nose into it all, working with everything from chemicals to computers. While studying at Lehigh University, he met his wife, Cathy, and they got married shortly after. “I used to take classes from 7 to 10 p.m., and one day after class let out early, I went over to a spot in Allentown, and Cathy and some of her girlfriends were there,” Ed said. “When I saw her, I knew that was it.”
12
Fall 2021 Issue
Ed and Cathy spent their lives together in the local area and raised two daughters. Ed said he’s been fortunate to “carve a career out of the area” with the abundance of positions he’s had. Part of his career was working on basic oxygen furnaces, which convert hot metal into steel. The process works by combining molten pig iron and steel scrap and blowing pure oxygen to oxidize to steel. “It used to take 14 hours to make steel. Now, in 30 minutes, there’s as much steel made as it took in 14 hours,” Ed said. Ed also explored cryogenics, which involves researching and working with the effects of very low temperatures. He had the opportunity to produce liquid nitrogen, conduct calculations and do research for a spaceplane.
Additionally, he delved into computers and worked with a Librascope General Precision computer, the first computer used for engineers and educators. He said during his career, he watched computers progress “faster and faster.”
“ I wrote my first program and code before there even were computers,” Ed said. “We used to do thousands of calculations on a calculator.” Ed was able to apply his computer skills when he got a job at Honeywell working with Kellogg’s cereals. In this role, he ran calculations and used precise computer settings to fill cereal boxes with the correct amount of cereal.
When he’s not reading about science, he’s most likely thinking about it. “I like to play pool here with my friends, and when I’m playing, I think about the different angles of how I can hit the ball and such because I’m an engineer,” Ed said. Ed also finds projects to do around his apartment and items to fix at his daughter’s house regularly. He said he is his daughter’s “go-to” for problem solving and coming up with creative solutions.
Eventually, Ed transitioned into the business side of production and worked in purchasing and managing for three companies. He also wrote programs to match invoices with orders at FMC Corporation and had his own electronic data interchange consulting business. Throughout his career, he had numerous other positions. Regardless of the role, Ed was able to thrive easily because of the plethora of skills and experiences he gained.
“ I spoke 30 languages,” Ed said. “I could speak Fortran, which is a scientific language, and COBOL, which is a business language.” Ed has been a resident at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill for almost three years now and said he “enjoys it very much.” Part of the time Ed spent at Masonic Village was with Cathy, who just recently passed away. Ed said he’s thankful for the 58 years of love they shared. “Cathy and I enjoyed traveling a lot, and I miss her very much,” Ed said. He said though Cathy wasn’t an engineer, she was very intelligent and worked as a dental hygienist. “I don’t even know anything about the human body, other than I have a heartbeat,” Ed joked. Ed doesn’t consider himself present-day “tech savvy” either, but he’s still interested in science, specifically solar power. He continues to further educate himself by reading a lot of science magazines from Penn State University and Lehigh University.
Whatever the occasion may be, Ed’s knowledge and excitement for science is never in short supply and is always useful. Ed said he’s looking for more individuals at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill to share this enthusiasm with, too. “Being an engineer is being able to look at something and comprehend what’s going on. It’s thinking about three or four ways to do something,” Ed said. “If plan A doesn’t work, try plan B. If plan B doesn’t work, try plan C. You just have to keep trying until you find the best solution.” By Katy Shero, public relations associate/intern
MasonicVillages.org
13
Planting
with Purpose and Passion
14
Fall 2021 Issue
Central Park is an 843-acre park in the center of New York City featuring eight lakes and ponds, lawns, meadows, 21 playgrounds and more than 20,000 trees. The park didn’t happen overnight. It took more than 18 years to complete and was meticulously designed by two landscape architects. Masonic Village at Elizabethtown sits upon more than 1,400 acres of Lancaster County farmland, and responsible for its Formal Gardens, ponds, expansive lawns, and thousands of trees and flora is Kris Tebay, director of landscape and land management. A landscape architect, she understands the continuous process of design with consideration for the environment. Central Park was among her inspirations for pursuing this field, as well as her parents, who knew a program that included maps, drawing, natural materials, spatial design and the outdoors would be a good fit for their daughter.
“The idea of understanding how great outdoor places came together, and how to make outdoor spaces for people was really intriguing,” Kris said. “I learned to love planting design through project experience.” She attended Rutgers University, which placed the program in its school of agriculture and biological science, whereas other schools tied it into their architecture and engineering programs.
1
“We are being challenged to think beyond the visual aesthetic. We are all learning more about species' interconnectedness and why natives matter,” Kris said. “Now we know that plants developed closely with other organisms over time, and we can try to support these relationships with our planting decisions. This is done all the time in wetland restoration and reforestation work, but it can be incorporated into any landscape to some degree.” An example of using native plants for ornamental landscape is the American violet. Frequently considered a weed, it is the primary source of food for the Great Fritillary butterfly. When planted in groupings, it looks as nice as other ornamental flowers and is less “needy” than most, according to Kris.
“Landscape architecture as a career can take many forms, like a lot of professions,” she said. “Our work is often the yin to the yang in relation to architecture. I think the Flight 93 Memorial, in Shanksville, is an incredibly well done large-scale work. Landform, vegetation and wellplaced handmade elements pay great tribute to the people we lost and tell the story of that tragic day. At a much smaller scale, but with similar artistry, our Masonic Village interiorscape and greenhouse team is right up there, knowing how to draw your eye right where they want it.”
Landscape architecture is about more than how a design looks, but how the natural elements within it function together in a sustainable way. The importance of using native species is also becoming more evident.
2
MasonicVillages.org
15
She is among good company at Masonic Village. The Land Management staff has a wealth of knowledge to draw from, and each member contributes from their own area of expertise. This includes specialists in plant health care, tree work, equipment and operations, and generalists who know a certain category of plant material really well. There are also many residents with interest and backgrounds in farming, gardening and landscape.
“Masonic Village’s community is well informed on these topics,” Kris said. “I like the idea of learning all together.” A Landscape Architect’s Dream
KRIS’S Favorite SPOTS ON CAMPUS 1
SCENIC:
Eden View Drive’s ridgeline 2
ROMANTIC:
Naturalistic ponds along Serpentine Road 3
RURAL:
The reclining calves half hidden in the pasture grass 4
MOST LIKELY TO DRAW OR PAINT:
Orchard allées (evenly spaced rows) 5
SIGNIFICANT AND SACRED:
In need of an ice cream cone, Kris first paid a visit to the Masonic Village Farm Market’s Orchard View Café several years ago. “By the time my mom and I wound our way to the top of the campus, Masonic Village had my full attention,” she recalls. “I recognized what I was seeing, after being involved in various forms of campus planning, but never so well done. A few years later, my in-laws [Jean and James Tebay] moved into the James Buchanan apartments, and that brought Masonic Village back into my focus.” Kris took the job as director in 2020. The “careful planning, scale and history of the property, the extensive number of plant species, the statement of the original architecture and the variety of land uses within this one community is unique, and I am very honored to be serving as one of its stewards,” she said. The Land Management team is comprised of two teams of landscape gardeners: one for retirement living residences and one which covers public
Both the cemetery and Veterans Grove 6
ARCHITECTURAL:
The character of the Village Green, as defined by the gorgeous buildings and mature trees
3 Photo by resident Sandra DePue 16
Fall 2021 Issue
Her daily work includes responding to special project requests, wildlife and pest management (such as the invasive spotted lantern fly), facilitating the archery program and working with neighboring communities that share a boundary with Masonic Village's property, as well as administrative and staff management.
4
“Every day, I’m listening and learning how and why things are the way they are,” she said. “We have a deep well of knowledge within our team leadership, and they are constantly filling me in.” Eco-friendly operations and initiatives at Masonic Village are an important investment in the environment's resiliency, whether it’s restoring a portion of the Conoy Creek on property, protecting soil and water resources while operating a beef cattle and farm enterprise or reintroducing native plant species.
5
spaces. It also includes interiorscape/event stylists (greenhouse team) and orchard and farm staff. “There were already great people running each of these areas when I got here,” Kris said. “My goal has been to listen a lot, and move towards improving operations a little bit at a time. We already do many things very well.”
Masonic Village offers Kris opportunities to use her knowledge of art, architecture, biology and agriculture, combined with human interaction and problem solving, to make short and long-term impacts.
“I appreciate collaborating with the staff and residents, hammering out programs or plans with our team, the complexity of this place, our supportive community, having the resources provided to do our work and the clarity of our mission,” Kris said.
Their responsibilities cover a wide range of focuses. In October, they wrapped up mowing, planting requests and lawn repairs before switching to fall tree plantings, installing thousands of bulbs, leaf collection, changing out equipment and installing holiday greens and lighting, all through November. They also plan for snow operations. “Little changes may include how we make our landscape plant material choices. There may be areas where we can make selections to simplify operations, support biodiversity or meet both,” Kris said. “It’s been amazing to see what some of our annual plantings do to support pollinators.” 6
MasonicVillages.org
17
Solving Life’s Mysteries, One Question at a Time You can ask Dr. Philip Fawley just about anything — even a question about string theory — and he’ll give you an answer. His initial reply may be, “Let me look into it,” but true to his word, he’ll come back with a simple response. Phil used this ability throughout his 33-year career as a professor of biology at Westminster College. His pursuit of knowledge continues in retirement, and he’s found himself among an equally curious audience at Masonic Village at Sewickley. Residents enjoy attending his monthly presentations on Life’s Little Mysteries or whatever topic he thinks up, like a recent one on the Bubble Boy. Phil is open to answering questions any time, whether it’s following a presentation or in the elevator on the way to dinner. Mr. Biology Phil took an interest in biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics in high school, thanks to one teacher in particular who was very demanding of his students. Most students didn’t appreciate his drive, but he had a big influence on Phil. Phil continued to study the subjects at Kent State University, where he met a physiology professor who really “turned the fire on” in Phil. The professor served as his graduate advisor and eventually suggested Phil consider teaching. As a doctoral student, Phil lost interest in the medical topic he was pursuing and began concentrating on student research studies.
18
Fall 2021 Issue
“ Teaching initially was scary, but once I got into the program I loved it,” he said. “ I always helped people. I was a tutor for athletes. People called me Mr. Biology. I got paid, and it was fun.” After earning his Ph.D. in 1972, he took the job with Westminster College, where he not only taught but was able to conduct research on everything from medical topics to the biology of caves. “Westminster College allowed me to challenge my students with their small class size of about 20 students,” he said. “It left me with many wonderful experiences.” Toward the end of his career, he took a sabbatical at a medical school. Phil published two aspects of a study he conducted, but more importantly, he offered two of his students a chance to contribute to the study. “Teaching students to appreciate the beauty and interactions of the sciences, and then watching them move on to post-graduate studies was the most rewarding part of my career,” Phil said.
“ Teaching is what I love to do. I’m always doing it by answering questions and trying to explain things to people.” Phil taught hundreds of students throughout his tenure. They went on to pursue challenging careers, ranging from forensic science to medical studies to teaching. He had a chance meeting with one former student while in the hospital for back surgery. As the surgeon came in leading a group of 15 or so medical students, the surgeon paused when he saw Phil.
As part of his graduate training, Phil spent a summer at Baylor, and he later had the opportunity to take some Westminster students there to attend classes from instructors, including the medical and psychological researchers responsible for David’s care.
While Phil welcomes all questions, one of his favorites is, “Are you serious?”
“At that point, I was partially sedated, but I managed to ask, ‘John, how are you?’” Phil recalls. “He was the chief resident of surgery. That was great, with all the students looking at him.” In 2016, Phil and his wife, Diane, moved to the Masonic Village at Sewickley. He has since met three residents whose children were students of his at Westminster. “It was fascinating,” he said. “What amazed one couple was, when they asked if I taught at Westminster because they had a daughter who went there, I remembered her name was Julia even though I hadn’t taught her since the 70s. For my best students, I can always recall stories about them.” Are You Serious? Phil has developed a continuing series of lectures to educate and amuse his audience at Masonic Village. “I have found my neighbors at Masonic Village anxious to expand their understanding of a wide variety of topics,” he said. “They are educated and don’t mind learning something new. I always explain there will be no quiz at the end.” Phil’s presentations have included infectious diseases, the first electric chair, gene sequencing, diving mammals, the Old Order Amish, global climate change and renewable energy, among others. His lecture on the Bubble Boy was based on personal experience. David Vetter, known as the Bubble Boy, was born in 1971 with severe combined immunodeficiency and lived in a specially-constructed sterile plastic bubble at the Texas Children’s Hospital - Baylor College of Medicine until he died at age 12.
“When I develop a topic in a lecture by fusing several thoughts together, the conclusion sometimes shocks the audience as to the simplicity of the solution to a problem,” he said. “As I bring things together, you’ll see the lightbulb come on. That’s amazing. That’s what I do this for.” In addition to giving lectures, Phil selects the Thursday afternoon movies. Otherwise, he enjoys the relaxing, friendly and supportive atmosphere at Masonic Village. “It was a perfect match for myself and my wife. We love the active lifestyle and fantastic friends,” Phil said. “We expected an awful lot from Masonic Village, and they have constantly exceeded what we hoped to find. We’re so happy to be here.” As long as people keep asking interesting questions, Phil will keep trying to solve life’s little mysteries. “I don’t mind admitting that I don’t know everything. No one does,” he said. “I love trying to point out interesting topics. I can devote my life to it and feel accomplished.”
MasonicVillages.org
19
Behind the Scenes From dentistry to marine biology to lab science, George Pence didn’t have a direct career path, but he ended up finding his niche in a field where he excelled for 43 years. For those whose lives he saved, it was an especially fortunate path. While many kids fear going to the dentist, George grew up visiting a very entertaining one. He made plans to attend Dartmouth University and follow in his dentist’s footsteps, but then his father died. His grandfather agreed to pay for his college, but only if he stayed local. George attended Lebanon Valley College and earned a degree in biology.
20
Fall 2021 Issue
Instead of pursuing dentistry school, he took an interest in ecology. Upon the recommendation of one of his professors and mentors, Dr. Wolf, he took a course in marine biology at the University of Delaware. There, a Ph.D. student pursuing a degree in micropaleontology, which is the study of microsfossils (those which require a microscope to see), recruited him to take a trip aboard Duke University’s marine lab vessel to explore core holes in the ocean deep. The field of marine biology appealed to George, but not his stomach. He spent much of the trek seasick and, despite breaking his professor’s heart, decided it wasn’t the path for him. George trained at a local hospital for a year to become certified as a medical technologist. He took a job with Good Samaritan Hospital in Lebanon, serving as hematology supervisor and later administrative director of clinical lab. The role entailed overseeing 42 supervised medical technologists and laboratory technicians seven days a week, for what was “the longest 10 years of my life,” he said, due to the constant on-call environment.
One memorable accomplishment for George was working with a patient who had a rare blood clotting condition. As an experimental procedure, the patient had a heparin pump implanted in her shoulder. She had come to Pennsylvania after being treated at the University of Minnesota Medical Center, and they flew a technician in with her to show George and his team how to perform a procedure to counteract the medicine pump every 90 days. He also recalls a patient, a pastor, who was in need of type O-negative blood, one of the most indemand types. George and his team were able to find 65 units. These were the moments that made his career, and the long days, the most rewarding. “There was the challenge of providing lab services to save patients,” he said. “People came into the hospital in crisis — in a diabetic coma or hemorrhaging — and we’d cross match blood to save their lives.
“ There are a lot of people working behind the doctors and nurses. No one ever died from lack of blood on my watch. By taxi or plane or however, we got the blood there.” Outside the lab walls, George spent time with patients obtaining samples. He earned a reputation, especially with kids, for being able to draw blood on the first try, making him a patient favorite. “I was a good stick,” George said.
“I’m very proud,” George said of his son. “ It’s the American dream for your children to do better than you.” George moved to Masonic Village at Elizabethtown in 2016. His late wife received short-term rehabilitation in the Masonic Health Care Center’s transitional care unit, so he knew it offered great care and wonderful people, as well as a breathtaking campus. From January through March, he and his partner, Barbara, head to Florida and spend the winter on golf courses. George is also the assistant coach of the Elizabethtown Area High School golf team. Locally, he and Barbara enjoy hiking trails, day trips and riding their electric bikes. He’s fond of fast cars, having owned a GTO, Corvette and Lexus hot rod over the years.
“ You have the freedom to do what you want, when you want,” he said of life at Masonic Village. “You can do as little or as much as you want.” George may have retired his lab coat, but he’ll remain an unsung hero for the countless patients he saved and their families. He followed the right path, and his determination to help those in need made him the perfect man for the job.
Seeing firsthand the urgent need for blood, he was also a devoted blood donor. “I was in the 2-gallon club,” he said. “Donations are very important, especially for local blood banks.” He also served as director of a clinical lab at a women’s health center and retired from Lebanon VA Hospital’s department of laboratory services in 2015. George’s son followed in his medical field footsteps and took his career to the level of doctor. After serving in the U.S. Army, he is now an anesthesiologist at the Eisenhower Army Medical Center.
MasonicVillages.org
21
Celebrating the Holidays with a Loved One in a Long-Term Care Community With a little planning, you can bring holiday cheer to your loved one wherever they reside. The way you celebrate may change, but the sentiment behind it can remain. Meaningful Moments If your parent or another family member has recently relocated to a long-term care community, it’s important to acknowledge this will be his or her first holiday away from home.
Ask your loved one what he or she would like to do for the holidays, and give them the opportunity to be involved in decision making. Make sure to consult with facility staff before bringing your family member home for the day to be with other relatives. They can help determine if your loved one is doing well enough for a home visit and provide any safety guidelines related to COVID-19.
If your loved one is staying at the facility, there are plenty of other ways to celebrate.
22
Fall 2021 Issue
Many facilities are open to the idea of holiday parties for residents, as long as they are planned in advance.
“ The family can request an area to have a private party and invite other family members to come to the celebration,” said Angela Hurst, recreation coordinator at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill. “Or, they can simply bring their loved one some holiday food, or just bring family to visit, especially if they are from out of town.” Kelly Weaver, executive director at Masonic Village at Warminster, said her staff “love a good celebration” and will decorate a room so family members can come and celebrate the holidays or a birthday with their loved one. When you visit the facility, you can potentially decorate your loved one’s room with a small Christmas tree or Menorah, gifts, holiday cards and lights (check with facility staff in case some items are prohibited) or set up a device to play holiday music. Stay engaged with your loved one by sharing photo albums from holidays past and talking about old memories.
Gift Giving
for family members living in a long-term care community Finding the most useful gifts for a family member who lives in a long-term care community to enjoy can be challenging. Older adults have received a lifetime of gifts, but over the years, their needs may have changed. They may be dealing with physical health issues or memory loss and have needs for everyday items that wouldn’t normally come to mind. What most people want, especially after the last year and a half, is TIME with their family members. If you can’t be there in person, a phone call or video chat is the next best thing. In addition to giving your time, Masonic Villages team members offer the following suggestions for appropriate holiday gifts for loved ones residing in a nursing or personal care home: • slipper socks • robes • pajamas • a quilt or blanket, especially memory blankets with pictures on them • watches or clocks which announce the time of day (for people with visual deficits) • snacks like soft cookies, raisins, peanut butter crackers, cupcakes and cereal they can enjoy and share, if desired • crossword puzzles
• adult coloring books and colored pencils • photo albums or scrapbooks • framed pictures of family, or digital frames with photos uploaded • toiletries such as body wash, lotions or shampoo and conditioner • hats, gloves and scarves for going out on trips • sweaters • a music player with CDs of their favorite singers or music downloaded onto them • restaurant gift certificates they can use for a meal trip • playing cards • large piece jigsaw puzzles • cards, notepaper, envelopes and stamps • jewelry sets for women • holiday decorations The holidays may feel different for someone residing in a long-term care community, especially if it’s their first year in a new home. It’s important to acknowledge this change, but you can still create memories and merriness for them with your presence, phone or video conversations and through gift-giving. While you may not be able to recreate those family holidays you’ve enjoyed in the past, don’t let this stop you from starting new traditions with your loved one.
• word search books • seek-and-find books MasonicVillages.org
23
PHILANTHROPY
1.
Make the Season Brighter for Those in Need
Support Masonic Villages this Holiday! GIVING CATALOG
Purchase items to benefit residents of our Masonic Villages. Visit MVGivingCatalog.org to view and purchase items, including salon services, clothing, birthday cakes and more, or call 1-800-599-6454 for a catalog.
2.
QUALIFIED CHARITABLE DISTRIBUTION (QCD) If you are 70½ or older, you can use your individual retirement account (IRA) to support the mission of Masonic Villages. Call 1-800-599-6454 and ask for our QCD planning kit or to speak to a gift planner.
4.
CORNERSTONE CIRCLE FOR MONTHLY GIVING
Authorize a specified amount of money to be electronically transferred directly from your checking account or credit card to Masonic Villages monthly. This is the easiest form of giving — plus, you will receive a year-end statement of monthly giving for easy tax preparation. You can cancel your authorization at any time. To join the Cornerstone Circle, call 1-800-599-6454 or visit MasonicCharitiesPa.org. 24
Fall 2021 Issue
3.
AMAZONSMILE
When you shop at AmazonSmile for your holiday gifts, Amazon will donate 0.5% of the purchase price to Masonic Villages. Bookmark the following link, so all your eligible purchases will benefit Masonic Villages every time you shop! Masonic Villages: smile.amazon.com/ch/23-0846955
Thanks to Our Donors Memorial Gifts The following memorial gifts were made May 1 - July 31, 2021. Below is a list of individuals (names shown in blue) whose loved ones have made a gift in their memory to one of the five Masonic Villages. We have taken great care to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of the names listed below. If an error has been made, please contact the Office of Mission Advancement and Development at 800-599-6454; 717-367-1121, ext. 33561; or by emailing giving@masonicvillages.org. Thank you. Earl I. Adams Barbara Adams John T. Adkinson Cheryl Adkinson Carl Alercia Richard and Marge Horn Ronald C. Anderson Carol Anderson Hubert E. “Bert” Antes III Ronald and DiAnn Behrens Borton-Lawson Robin Graham Burrows Adrienne Cannella Lake Latonka Womens Club Paul and Linda Madonna Jennifer Perry Joe, Nancy and Julia Santilli Horace A. Bailey Christiana Lodge No. 417 Donald W. Banzhof Patricia Ruth Frances Baringer Richard and Marge Horn William Barratt David Kerr Dottie L. Basehore Fred Basehore Betty A. Beaman Craig and Patricia Beaman C. David Beidleman Michael Beidleman Howard A. Beiseigel John Beiseigel Bruce Berg James and Janette Hartley Anne R. Berlin Cheston Berlin Stanley Blake Hackenburg-Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 019 John C. Blanc John Blanck Robert L. Breakwell Frances Breakwell Evelyn L. Briel Thomas and Claudia Stephens Olin and Gladys Brubaker Karl Buus A. James Bryden Fred and June Harris Edward Budman Oscar and Angila Smith Charles and Hilda Buehler Clintin Probst and Karen Bueler-Probst Gordon D. Burns Bill and Sandra Burns Donald O. Burtis Rosalie Burtis Frank Burton Stacie and Paul Lewis Lance H. Butler, Sr. Karen and Joe Campbell Robert M. Caldwell Franklin St. John’s Trinity Lodge No. 221 Philip H. Chamberlin Alice Chamberlin Joyce P. Clopper Norman Clopper Donald F. Coles, Sr. Etta Coles Carolyn Connor Vincent Connor Brian Covert Jon and Jackie McHugh
Darlene Rose Crawford Charles and Carol Curry Donegal Chapter No. 422 O.E.S. Jim and Betty Gotta Paul Hansen Bryan and Eileen Hill Jeffrey and Mary James Dave and Judy Kurtz Virginia Locker Raymond Vaughan Bob Wetzel Catherine Fleming Crouch Kate Crouch Phyllis “Shorty” Dayton Craig Dayton Jason L. Dean Richard L. Dean Chester A. and Marian E. Derk, Sr. Chester and Barbara Derk Ord L. Dixon Jean Dixon Jack H. Dreibelbis Whitfield Lodge No. 622 Marcia and James Duncan Jimmie and Barbara Erwin Walter F. Dyer George Ullrich Harold Evans Kaj Skov Annetta Fehnel Betty L. MacAdam, PGM and The Grand Family 1983-84 Grand Chapter of PA Gerald L. “Jerry” Ferraro Michael Beidleman Herman Fineberg Max and Sylvia Rabinovitz Robert C. “Bob” Forney Camilla Anderson Elizabethtown Chapter No. 407, O.E.S. Jim and Betty Gotta Bryan and Eileen Hill Masonic Village Travel Club Carol Northey Doris Novinger Whitey and Arlene Von Nieda Dale and Donna Williams Norman Fox Suzi Gerber Hackenburg-Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 019 Barbara L. Frantz Robert Frantz Charles and Ruth Frederick Nancy and Perry Bogert Charles L. Fuellgraf, Jr. Kenneth and Catherine Bronder Jean Gaspari Marjorie Menear Patty Gaydosh Edward Gaydosh
MasonicVillages.org
25
John Geary Ralph Geary Gordon W. Gerber Houseman Lodge No. 211 Jack L. Gillmore Vicki Gillmore Doris Longenecker William K. Glasgow Franklin St. John’s Trinity Lodge No. 221 Norman Gniewek Karla and Donald Bieber Carl and Evelyn Hackman Helen Gregg Rosa, Chuck, Nikki and Allie Masson James N. Griffies, Sr. Joan Griffies Paul J. Gross George and Beverly Gross Patricia “Pat” Grubb Clare Fitzgerald Joan Johns Greg and Kathleen Magnus Charles Wright Harvey Gumto Ian Gumto Ernest Haeussler Charles and Judith Haeussler Robert G. Hale Stephen Crow Joan H. Hall William Hall Bruce E. Hamilton Ethel Hamilton Felix I. Harper Richard and Gail Scott-Harper Donald Harwick Sung-Hui Park Ruth H. Hasenauer Mary Jane Keim Victor E. Hauze Dale and Mary Hauze Richard Hawk Ken and Elaine Bleiler J. Richard Hays The Ohio cousins of J. Richard Hays Sterling P. Hepler Duane and Nancy Hepler Jerome L. Hitz Paul Thompson Kathryn Hitz Paul Thompson Barbara Ann Landis Hoffmann Matt Mayo Ralph C. and Emma V. Horne Mary Anne Cooling Robert E. Hoyt Covenant Lodge No. 473 Rudy Hummel Joan Hummel David and Alicia Hunsberger Timothy and Fay Pletcher Carolyn Jeranek Deborah Witzel Christine Wolstenholme George W. Kahler, Jr. Whitfield Lodge No. 622 William H. Kelchner III Whitfield Lodge No. 622 Earl M. Kline Eugene and Anna Kline Mae Kline Eugene and Anna Kline Albert Kling, Jr. Albert and Glee Kling Virginia Knight Robert and Jacque Knight Ryan Korn Matt Mayo Robert L. Koser Robert Peda Gerald Kyler Bea Mitro Anna E. Lazur Stephen and Kathy Lazur Arthur Lengacher, Sr. Christiana Lodge No. 417 Barbara Mann Lewis Prudence Mann Dominick Lizzi David and Alda Lizzi Faye Hitz Lokey John Lokey Anthony and Jean Loy Clintin Probst and Karen Bueler-Probst George and Anna Lubic Rita Vorkapich 26
Fall 2021 Issue
John T. Lutz Mahlon and Christine Fuller Ethel Machamer Leona Berzowski and Family Bunny Daub and Family Nancy Kroh Jode and Dave Smith Tripro Technologies Andrew and Paula Trotman Matthew and April Wilbert Marie Massa Michael and Rebecca Maxwell Ed and Betty Masterstefone Kim and Laura Masterstefone Audrey J. McBride Gregg McBride John McCallion Alan Warnick R. Dale McDowell Bonnie McDowell Robert Sr. and Margaret McGhee Edward and Susanne Vorhauer Mary McLellan Southgate Chapter No. 177 OES Dorothy Meszaros Kenneth and Rebecca Reigle Florence Y. Methlie Elizabethtown Chapter No. 407, O.E.S. Frederick Meyer McKinley Stuckrath Lodge No. 318 Paul E. Meyers Donald Meyers Diane Middaugh Thomas Middaugh Joyce Miller William and Donna Miller Gladys Millheim Betty L. MacAdam, PGM and The Grand Family 1983-84 Grand Chapter of PA Daniel Milligan Ray and Kathy Geesey Lillian Milliron Eric and Lois Milliron Harry S. Mills Skip and Elizabeth Mills George R. Mohr Ruth Mohr Albert C. Muffley William Muffley James C. Nickle Thomas and Terry Kamerzel James E. Olson Gloria Olson Walter R. Paul Brian and Deborah Paul Beatrice K. Phillips John Phillips Elwood Raber Thomas Matesevac Jack Rankin Terry and Barbara Lenker Pierre Rausch Gabi Bayer Don Redlich Jerry Lambert Paza Ann Reichle Stephen and Roberta Dennison Berneice Reigle Kenneth and Rebecca Reigle Gerald H. “Jerry” Risser Ken and Elaine Bleiler Ronald and Judy McKnight Bill and Kathy Prazenica Robert W. and Natalie H. Roth Karen Martin Lori Ann Sachs Bea Mitro Rose Samans Beth Weiner Vernon C. Sanders Thomas and Carol Sanders Billie J. Savickas John Savickas Todd Schatz Matt Mayo Esther Scheuermann John Letsch and Adalena Wilson Freda Schmitt Barry and Sue Schmitt Arthur J.L. Schneider Eleanor Schneider
Mary M. Sellers Mary Yeager David B.U. Shearer George Ullrich Donald L. Shearer Rosemary Shearer Dolores F. Shott Thomas Shott Ira Silverman Alvin and Iris Goodman Morris Slosberg Barry and Joann Slosberg Lester V. Smith, Sr. Douglas and Gloria Smith Jane Stecker Barry and Karen Chaskin Harriet Kauffman Sterner Garry and Carol Kauffman Evelyn Stromberg Sally Kinnamon John and Thurley Stromberg Sally Kinnamon E. Audrey Stroup Elizabethtown Chapter No. 407, O.E.S. Lynford V. Swearer Christiana Lodge No. 417 Joseph T. Switaj John and Phyllis Switaj Jim Tarman Ray and Patricia Horn John C. Tassey Toni Tassey Nancy Marie (Hitz) Thompson Paul Thompson Barry A. Tienter Donald and Barbara Xander Josephine Tracy Friendship Chapter No. 551, O.E.S. Miles and Stella Vukas Jim and Cindy Kovacevich Miriam Schoudt Clauss Waller Lynette Waller Fred Walter Scott and Laura Walter Herman and Blanche Walters David and Alice Bechtel
Ralph and Katherine Waltz Galen Waltz Richard C. Watts McKinley Stuckrath Lodge No. 318 Charles T. Weiler Susan Weiler Edward O. Weisser, Jr. H. Edward Schanbacker, Jr. Southampton Square Club Robert Wellington Thelma Wellington C. Robert Wentz Carolee and Gregory Deuel Elaine Werkheiser Paula and Robert Helmbold Gary and Pamela Herbert Bryan and Eileen Hill Justine Kern and Robert Wetzel Rose H. Wible Donald and Sandra Kunz Jane F. Miller Wilson Kathy Bowman Michael and Holly Rennie Frances Thomson David Winter Loretta Winter Herbert Wolfe Beatrice Wolfe Canon Arthur E. Woolley Marion Grochowski Walter H. Wright, Jr. Carolyn Wright Frederick Wuestner Donald and Barbara Xander Filbert G. Yost Toni Tassey Barry Zalesky Hackenburg-Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 019 William J. Zimmerman Catherine Zimmerman
Honorarium Gifts The following honorarium gifts were made May 1 - July 31, 2021. Below is a list of individuals (names shown in blue) whose loved ones have made a gift in their honor to one of the five Masonic Villages. Jenny Barratt Helen Bell Milana “Mim” Bizic Charity Lodge No. 144 Dennis and Carolyn Dendler Brian A. Farling Faith C. Fitzgerald Theresa Fitzpatrick Betty Frederick Jean Frishmuth Fred Fundy Jackie Graybill Elizabeth Hahn
David Kerr Mark Arnold Lex and Jill Medich Anka Popovich-Krstic John and Joan Lee Vernon and Patricia Bright Barbara Kolchin Barbara Kolchin Ronald and Gloria Miccarelli Palmer Arnold JoAnn B. McGurk Ron and Katherine Frishmuth Allen Snyder Jane Graybill Louis Hahn
Paul D. Hansen Barbara Kolchin Wade S. Lawrence Charles and Jean Johns Polly Levinson Harris and Cheryl Brooks George B. Lohr Jake Lohr Margaret M. McGee Edward and Susanne Vorhauer Ginny Migrala Jim Heckman Sandy Miller Tracy H. Miller Jonathan Noel Barbara Kolchin Amber Pawuk Marjorie Menear Linda Rohrer Donald and Beverly Wimer Stephanye Smith Heath and Holly Mackley Staff on Roosevelt 2 Michael and Joan Kuhn Staff who cared for Mona Murray Joseph and Barbara Murphy Deborah Valiton-Carnish Barbara Kolchin A. Preston Van Deursen Barbara Kolchin
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.
MasonicVillages.org
27
MASONIC VILLAGES One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022-2219
Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill
Masonic Village at Elizabethtown
OUR CARING COMMUNITIES and services assist individuals, families and children in realizing their potential and enjoying the highest possible quality of life through the traditions of Freemasonry. Our Values: Quality of Life, Respect for the Individual, Quality Service and Outreach.
Enjoy Life Your Way | MasonicVillages.org | Find us on Facebook and Instagram