Village Voice - Fall 2022

VillageVoice

Vol. 32, No. 4

The Masonic Villages include locations in Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill, Sewickley and Warminster.

Published by Masonic Villages’ Public Relations Department

Masonic Village, One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022

717-367-1121, ext. 33383 or email pr@masonicvillages.org

The Masonic Villages is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Decisions concerning admissions, the provision of services and referral of residents are not based upon race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age (where minimum age for admission

met), sex, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, limited English Proficiency (LEP) or any other protected status.

Worth Celebrating

Medicaid Services, the highest rating possible. Not only was our overall score a five, we scored a five in each of the categories which make up the rating: annual health inspection, quality measures and nursing staffing levels.

While the inspections and survey focus heavily on nursing care, they also encompass a broad spectrum of services provided by housekeeping, food service, nutrition, rehabilitation, therapeutic recreation and social work, to name a few. We are blessed to have a number of specialized departments that enhance lives more than we can quantify, including music therapy, spiritual care and volunteers.

Our residents can rest assured they’re receiving high quality care from a dedicated team, as recognized by several recent achievements. We can’t thank our staff enough for everything they do each day to make Masonic Villages the best!

As part of the LNP and LancasterOnline Readers’ Choice Awards, Masonic Village Home Health was voted as Lancaster County’s Best Home Health Agency. Masonic Village at Elizabethtown was a favorite for the “55+ Community,” “Personal Care/Assisted Living” and “Retirement Community” categories. Masonic Village Hospice and Home Care were favorites for “Hospice and Palliative Care Specialist” and “In-Home Companion Care (Non-Health Care),” respectively.

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown was also named “Simply the Best” in Harrisburg Magazine’s Reader’s Poll.

The Masonic Village Home Health team ( pictured above) was recognized with a Best Home Health Superior Performer Patient Satisfaction Award by Strategic Healthcare Programs (SHP) for services provided in 2021. Masonic Village Home Health ranked in the top 20% in a benchmark from national patient surveys conducted by SHP and scored above the national average for each quality measure.

The Masonic Health Care Center earned a 5-Star Quality Assurance rating from the Centers for Medicare and

Bill Kingsbury, CEO, was named to the Central Penn Business Journal’s Health Care Power 30 List for 2021. The list “recognizes those who shape our communities and influence our quality of life through the health care institutions upon which our society depends.”

As Bill shared with the journal, what he finds most rewarding about his role “is the ability to touch and improve the lives of Masonic Villages’ residents and employees.”

He is inspired by our retirement community’s employees and residents who “go above and beyond every day in so many ways to care for each other.”

“The most rewarding aspect is working collaboratively with mission-centered leaders to deliver on the promise of our mission,” Bill said.

Since its initial meeting, the club has successfully planned and hosted five trips to nearby trails, including Susquehannock State Park, Union Canal Tunnel Park, the Lancaster Junction Recreation Trail, the Enola Low Grade Trail and the Pole Steeple Trail in Cumberland County.

The planning process is member-led, with the goal of hosting one excursion a month. After volunteering to plan a trip, the member will locate an unpaved trail at least four miles in length with some elevation that is no more than an hour and a half drive from campus. Additionally, the members do their best to plan hikes around other attractions that might be of interest to the hikers.

Adventures & Friendships ABOUND

From rail trails to overlook treks, the Hiking Club at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown proves you never outgrow adventure.

The group, established this spring by resident Chris Dunlap, has already made several trips to local trails and has more on the calendar for the coming months.

Originally from Hummelstown, Chris spent 35 years working for the PA Governor’s Office of Administration and shares two children and three grandchildren with his wife, Becky. Though they’ve visited trails as far as New Zealand and Switzerland, Chris first discovered the hobby during a hike with his son’s Boy Scout troop.

Since then, Chris and Becky have hiked trails in the Swiss Alps and portions of Hadrian’s Wall Path and successfully completed over 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail.

As the years passed, their children gradually moved out of state and had families of their own, leading Chris and Becky to seek a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) for their own futures. When they found Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, they knew it was the right fit.

“We didn’t want our children to be burdened with having to plan for our care, let alone provide for it,” Chris said. “One of the things that has made our stay especially comfortable is the philosophy of aging in place.”

Chris and Becky have certainly proven that aging doesn’t have any bearing on the spirit of adventure. Following the move to their new home, which surprised the couple with its natural beauty, Chris saw an opportunity to take their hobby with them in the form of an on-campus hiking group.

After an initial organizational meeting to weigh interest among residents, Chris was pleasantly surprised to find that many others share the same passion. Among the attendees were Fred Richter, a longtime biking and hiking enthusiast, and Glenn Achey, who has been involved with the Boy Scouts for 66 years and frequents their treks in New Mexico. He’s also hiked through the Appalachian Trail.

“My wife and I thought it sounded interesting to hike with some different people and get to know them,” Fred said. Glenn was also looking for an organized group that offered the opportunity to meet new people, as well as a chance to be in nature.

Previous hikes featured stops at places such as the Appalachian Trail Museum, the Ironmaster’s Mansion and Shenks Ferry Wildflower Preserve, though the men agree the Wildflower Preserve was their personal favorite.

“The mountain laurel was in bloom, and it almost gave you a canopy as you’re walking out of the trail,” Chris said. “It was just magnificent.”

Once the location is set, Glenn prefers to hike the trail himself prior to the group trip, which helps with direction day-of. Recently, while scoping out the Pole Steeple Trail (a side trail of the Appalachian Trail) with Fred, the men became lost while looking for an overlook. The Appalachian Trail has white blazes, and side trails are blue blazed.

After walking about a half mile in the wrong direction, Glenn suggested they turn around. Fred recalls, “I looked over Glenn’s shoulder, which is hard for me since he is six inches taller, and there’s the blue blaze trail marker! Somehow, we just completely missed it,” he laughed. “It was a whole lot easier the second time!”

The member will then set a date and a message will go out to those on the email list containing details for the hike. Since about eight to 10 residents have been interested in each hike, the group relies on carpooling to get to the hike locations, which also reduces the costs of travel.

While most of the residents who attend the trips have previous hiking experience, no prior knowledge or specific equipment is required – just ability and enthusiasm.

“There’s nothing special you have to have in order to do a hike anywhere, but you need a certain level of fitness,” Chris said. “All you need is the ability to walk on uneven terrain unassisted.”

The men encourage other residents with hiking capabilities to join them on their upcoming adventures.

“The best part is the people you’re with,” Glenn said. Chris echoed his words, saying, “The most rewarding experience is hearing other hikers’ stories. Come on out for fresh air and fellowship.”

For more information about the hiking club and future hikes, please contact Chris Dunlap at abcsd@verizon. net. For information about walking or running groups at Elizabethtown, contact Lydia Kraft, wellness specialist in the Baird Wellness Center, at lkraft@masonicvillages.org.

By Natalie Torta, public relations associate

DINING with Dignity

A recent dinner menu at Masonic Village at Warminster featured a hand-formed burger with a side of peas, carrots and mashed potatoes. Residents on a restricted diet of puréed food received the same exact meal, only Chef Patrick Gallen took a different approach –an approach that’s earning him national attention.

Grabbing a burger fresh off the grill, he puréed it in a blender, adding beef stock and a thickening agent, and molded it into the shape of a patty. Then, he flattened the patty, making cross marks with his knife to resemble grill marks. The mashed potatoes, peas and carrots were individually puréed and then piped with a pastry bag into the shape of rosettes.

“Purée with Purpose,” a program created by food services provider Unidine, empowers residents with dysphagia (chewing or swallowing difficulties) to “dine with dignity” by enjoying meals with the same great flavors, aromas and appearance as their peers. The meals are also packed with nutrients to ensure well-being and health.

“I’ve fed a handful of people puréed foods, from my father to my friends’ spouses and parents, so it means a lot to me to be able to do this,” Pat said. “Giving the residents a little bit of a treat for the day, trying to get a smile out of them, is worth it.”

Dysphagia is typically caused by a stroke, certain cancers, reflux, Parkinson’s disease and other neurological diseases. Approximately 23% of adults over age 50 have reported having dysphagia, which puts them at a high risk for aspiration, pneumonia, malnutrition and dehydration.

“When someone has a swallowing problem, you have to downgrade their [food] consistencies,” said Michele Swain, registered dietician at both Masonic Village at Warminster and Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill. “The problem is the person doesn’t want to eat the food because it looks like mush or baby food. The purpose of this program is to add visual appeal to the meal so the resident will eat it. They are using existing food on the menu and re-forming it so that it looks like the same item.

Because the food looks good, residents eat more of it and get more of the nutrients and calories they need.”

There are currently 50 residents in the general meal program at Masonic Village at Warminster. Of that number, Pat prepares about five “puréed platters” per meal for those who qualify and cooks the food fresh to order.

He plans to train the kitchen staff at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill in the future so they can be next to offer the program. “This is fun for me. I’ve been doing it for a long time,” Pat said. “I’ve taught a lot of other chefs.”

Pat has worked in the kitchens of several restaurants and health care facilities in the Philadelphia/New Jersey area. He apprenticed with certified master chef Richard E. Schneider. He spent 30 years as an executive chef for Marriott Sodexo, a company that provides catering and other services to 100 million consumers daily in 55 countries. His clients included Frankford Hospital in Northeast Philadelphia, Delaware County Memorial Hospital and Virtua Vorhees. It was while working for these clients that Pat started reconstituting food.

When Sodexo offered Pat an early retirement package, he accepted it. He took a year off from working to care for a sick brother and a few friends. Then, he served as executive chef at Montgomery Hospital Medical Center in Norristown. Most recently, he served as executive chef at Bristol Myers Squibb in Lawrenceville, N.J.

About six months ago, Masonic Village at Warminster Executive Chef Carmen Borgia (shown above with Pat) contacted Pat and asked if he would like to work in his kitchen on a part-time basis. Carmen and Pat had crossed paths often during their careers, so Pat agreed.

“I figured I could do something where I wouldn’t have to be the boss and could get some good meals out to people who deserve it, like residents and patients,” Pat said.

Pat, who is considered a Masonic Village employee, continues to sharpen his skills every day. Unidine, the contract manager for Masonic Village at Warminster’s food services, recently held a national puréed food competition in Chicago. Carmen suggested Pat enter the competition, and he took first place honors in the MidAtlantic northern region and the eastern United States.

Pat and competitors from across the country had to create their own puréed dishes under a time limit in a working kitchen. Judging criteria included taste, consistency and presentation. Pat cooked a winning dish of chicken cordon bleu, mashed Yukon potatoes and a garden veggie medley. He attended the national championship in Boston in October, where he placed second.

“It was a great experience, and I’m glad I got to participate,” Pat said.

“I was thrilled that Pat did the first competition and ecstatic when he won,” Carmen said. “He went up against some of my former employees, who were top contenders. Pat is multi-talented in a lot of areas. It was a no brainer to plug him into the competition. People think what he makes is part of a regular diet because his food looks so real.”

GROWING OPPORTUNITY in Landscape Engagement

Resident Karen Kostenbauder was very fond of the evergreen trees flanking the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s Formal Gardens. She had been charting the trees within these two areas and wanted to review the work she had done. In 2020, she contacted Kristine Tebay, director of land management, for assistance.

Quite an undertaking, Karen spent much time documenting tree locations and trying to read and key in remnants of botanical signage, which needed updating. An old and beautifully drawn plan of the geometric Formal Gardens and evergreen groves existed, but it hadn’t been updated in decades.

To identify and develop interesting information for the new botanical identification signage, they turned to several sources, including arboretums that have similar species to Masonic Village’s campus, Kris explained. They also used well-respected teaching manuals, such as Dr. Michael Dirr’s “Manual of Woody Landscape” to help identify varieties and provide additional information.

With phase 1 of the new signage, which includes a large font and standard height for readability, residents have a new opportunity to engage with the beautiful landscape surrounding the Formal Gardens.

The goal was to provide more interesting facts than what is typically provided in arboretums. In the process, unexpected information regarding the history of the plants’ migration, extinction, historical uses, local ecosystem contributions and naming were revealed. Many specimens are not native to a central Pennsylvania climate but have thrived in this setting, buffered by the landform and the Grand Lodge.

Trees from afar include Hinoki Cypresses, Lebanon Cedars, Mexican White and Himalayan Pines. Each original tree species developed differently on the various continents, adapting to survive in their unique locations.

In 2021, Nora Palmer, horticulturist, joined the team and has been a big help in the process of identifying the campus trees and installing the signage. Since graduating from Delaware Valley University with a degree in horticulture, Nora has also gone on to earn a certification in horticulture therapy and currently serves as the vice president of the Pennsylvania chapter of the Mid-Atlantic Horticulture Therapy Network.

Being outdoors has a multitude of benefits for residents, including fresh air, changing scenery and promoting activity. Nora’s horticulture therapy background has helped her realize and emphasize these benefits for residents at Masonic Village. This has been evident with her work, focused on the Masonic Health Care Center landscape in particular, as well as informal resident chats and a few targeted presentations on campus.

“Horticulture therapy is all about gardening with a purpose,” Nora said. “From getting out and about to feeling mentally refreshed, there are so many benefits that residents don’t realize.”

Kris and Nora are excited by the addition of the new identification signage on the Formal Gardens’ trees, which will allow residents to combine active learning with physical exercise.

“The signs help teach the residents something new about their home,” Nora said.

“And it hopefully, to interesting discussions and interactions, continual learning and some fun,” Kris agreed.

The plan is to continue to add more signage each year, along the walking trails where specimens or groves may include additional species or varieties. The Landscape Department held a Fall Tree Stroll to further promote resident engagement within the campus landscape.

For more information about the tree signage or potential opportunities to better engage with the campus landscape, please contact Kristine Tebay at ktebay@masonicvillages.org.

By Natalie Torta, public relations associate

An Eye & Heart FOR ART

Releasing creativity is a journey and an escape. Art may be subjective, but at Masonic Villages, it is also easily accessible. Residents can work on their creations at home or attend a group gathering. Experience isn’t required; only curiosity. Whether you leave with a work of art or just some new friends, mixing creativity and fun offers something for everyone.

An Historic BUILD

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown resident Harold Pence enjoys building model plane kits, but when he was given a kit for the USS Constitution ship, he was a little hesitant.

He has a passion for history, though, and was intrigued after learning the story of the ship, which was used during the Revolutionary War. Little did he know he was diving into a 2½-year endeavor, which included deciphering directions in Italian and converting numbers from the metric system. The result is a beautifully detailed, nearly perfect replica.

“It was like a puzzle,” Harold said, “without puzzle pieces. I relied on the pictures and numbers. I worked on it as much as I could. I’d take a break and then get back at it. Once I made it so far, I said, ‘This thing isn’t going to beat me.’

“A lot of credit goes to my friends in the dining room who were anxious to see it and pushed me to keep going.”

The USS Constitution was one of six frigates ordered by George Washington on March 27, 1794. In 1812, it was used during the Revolutionary War in a battle with Britain’s HMS Guerriere. Shots from the HMS Guerriere literally bounced off the USS Constitution’s oak planking. When the enemy was heard saying, “her sides must be made of iron,” it earned the nickname “Old Ironsides.”

The ship still exists today, and it most recently sailed in 1997 after 116 years of being docked.

For residents of Masonic Village, Harold’s ship is a model of artistic and historic proportions.

“It was a good project to pick my brain and keep me sharp,” he said.

CARVING OUT an Escape

For Jerry Sock, wood “working” doesn’t aptly describe the hours he’s spent creating trains, cars and trucks, among other hand carved items. He picked up woodworking as a hobby after retirement, and it has provided him an outlet for relaxation and fun.

After a career as a machine shop and maintenance supervisor, he knew his way around tools, especially how to use them safely. Upon his retirement in 1997, he filled his time as a volunteer running blood drives with the Red Cross and at Tyler Memorial Hospital, but he needed a way to relax. A neighbor showed him some of his wood crafts, and Jerry was hooked.

He ordered blue prints through the Toys and Joys catalog, bought a few small woodworking machines and got busy. His first project was a golf cart, and he expanded from there. His basement workshop grew to include a drill press, scroll saw, table-mounted router, band saw, wood lathe planer, small milling machine and many different drills, router bits and more.

“It was a challenge to learn,” he said. “My past experience was in metal and steel. Wood is a whole different ballgame. I had to learn to deal with harder woods and softer woods and when to work with the grain or against it. I also discovered how much to allow for humidity’s effects on wood. Climate has a huge effect on expansion and contraction.”

Trains were the most challenging, with moveable parts and lots of details. Jerry loves trains, and he designed his own tracks. He created parlor cars for passenger trains and tanker and gondola cars for freight trains. He was especially pleased with a bookend set he made, with one side being a train locomotive and the other a caboose. Having previously lived on 16 acres with some pastures, he also made bird houses and once designed a thermometer for a Red Cross fund drive.

Jerry was always careful to make sure things never came apart that would endanger a child and there were no sharp edges or splinters. He often didn’t paint his items and simply applied a coat of varnish.

“It was restful and peaceful,” Jerry said. “It was a clean hobby and a nice thing for me to do. I felt relaxed doing it in my spare time. I always had a feeling of accomplishment.”

He liked to sell items at his church’s monthly craft fair. He charged enough to cover his expenses and give some back to the church. His top sellers were trains and fire trucks.

People often asked Jerry how long it took to complete certain items and how they could get started on woodworking.

“I have no answer to how long it took because I could sometimes only do a few things, such as glue or varnish and wait for it to dry,” Jerry said. “It was just a hobby, and sometimes I didn’t get to it for a while.

“As far as getting started, I advise people to start out small and grow into it. Don’t spend a lot on equipment. I went to Harbor Freight. After you do something well with a blue print, try designing something on your own.”

Since moving to Masonic Village at Dallas three years ago, Jerry has retired from woodworking, but his villa is adorned with several of his creations. They are a reminder of a favorite pastime and good conversation starters with new neighbors.

“I’m in seventh heaven,” he said of his new home. “Meeting all these new people –they’re like family. Since the day we arrived, I can’t get over how we were accepted and became involved in the community.”

QUEEN of CARDS

Kenna Adatte had just retired from a long career in retail in the Philadelphia area and was looking for ways to spend her newfound free time.

On a whim, the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill resident signed up for a collage workshop at the Woodmere Art Museum. She had already been volunteering in the museum’s gift shop for years and wanted to try something new.

Kenna had always been interested in art and was good at sewing and making quilts. She was also intrigued by color, pattern and paper and wanted to learn more about it.

Shortly after starting the workshop, Kenna realized she had a knack for making framed collages and one-of-a-kind collage greeting cards. Eventually, she asked the museum store manager if she could start selling her cards there, and he agreed.

“This [making art] is my happy place. I just love doing it, and I am tickled pink that people want to buy my work,” she said. “I’m not in this to make money, and nothing is expensive to buy.”

Kenna makes her own cards after purchasing packages of blank cards at a local art shop and developing a central design idea. She scrolls through magazines, old books and wrapping paper for inspiration. Then, she decides how to combine everything into a collage. She glues the materials onto a blank card and then places the card between two pieces of wax paper, weighing it down with a book for about 24 hours, so all the materials can flatten and dry in place.

Kenna enjoys working on one series of cards at a time out of a spare bedroom in her apartment that she converted into an art studio.

“It’s one of those things where you can pick it up and put it down,” she said. “When I get tired of doing it, I just walk away from it. I accumulate enough materials, and the cards continue to sell, so I keep producing them when I can.”

Kenna has a love for fashion and spent years working at small boutique stores in Chestnut Hill, selling apparel and accessories.

In college, she studied merchandising and graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Penn State University. After graduating, she went to New York City to work as an assistant buyer for Bloomingdales.

“It was very chic, very exciting and very trendy back then,” she said. “It was a fun experience.”

After a few years in New York, Kenna decided she wanted to own her own store and returned to Penn State to attend graduate school. While there, a new boutique opened that was looking for a manager, so Kenna applied.

“I was interested in small retail rather than a big box store – that I knew I didn’t want to do anymore,” she said. “I wanted to interact more closely with people.”

Kenna was hired by her soon-to-be husband, Robert, and as fate would have it, nine months later, they were married. The couple moved back to Philadelphia, where Robert owned two additional stores.

The pair worked closely together and were married 40 years. They closed both their stores in the mid1980s, but Kenna continued working at other stores because she enjoyed the experience.

After her husband passed away and she finally retired, Kenna moved to Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill two years ago. She is very happy with her decision, especially with the location.

“I lived and was married in the Chestnut Hill/Mount Airy area,” she said. “I’m still really close with my friends. Masonic Village is convenient to so many places.”

Today, Kenna is active in activities on campus. She joined the Voices on the Hill chorus, which satisfies her theatrical side. She volunteers at the Gift Shop. She also displayed her artwork at Masonic Village’s Art Show earlier this year. She taught a collage card workshop to retirement living residents and hopes to do it again in the future.

Thanks to Kenna, residents were able to take home their own cards and use them any way they feel fit. Teaching others her hobby is almost as satisfying as doing it herself.

“The ladies really enjoyed it and had fun,” she said. “I brought in a lot of samples and supplies and enjoyed sharing and interacting with everyone. Making cards is one of those things you can’t really make a mistake doing. You don’t need to have talent. Everyone can do it.”

Creative STROKES

The Masonic Village Art Association (MVAA) in Elizabethtown has an open-door policy, and even those who’ve never picked up a paintbrush are welcome anytime.

It took Nancy Halliwell more than 15 years of living at Masonic Village to walk into the studio, but since joining last October, she’s completed 28 paintings.

“This place is fabulous,” Nancy said. “Someone with no base knowledge can come in, and people are willing to help. All the supplies are here, the room is here. The fact that I’m in here a lot says it all.”

Boasting more than 50 members, MVAA’s current officers are: Jim Smith, president; Eileen Meckley, vice president; Janet Ray, secretary; and Darlene Fairfax, treasurer. The Art Gallery Steering Committee chairperson is Barbara McCurdy.

Membership in the association is $15 annually. The studio is open Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, from 1 – 3 p.m., but members can receive a key to come when they wish. The only criteria is they leave the door open when they’re using the studio.

Most artists work in acrylic, oil, watercolor, pencil, pastel, etching or 2-D art. Work is displayed throughout the

studio, as well as in the hallway near Franklin’s Press café and by the bank in the Buchanan Clubhouse, based on themes the Gallery Steering Committee selects. There are several pieces for sale on a table in the studio.

“Our goal is to have a place for residents to practice their hobby and pass the time in a peaceful, enjoyable, no-stress environment,” Jim, president, said. “Masonic Village has been wonderful to us, giving us our own space to spread out. We asked them to add a closet to store extra artwork and easels, and they built it for us.”

The room also features track lighting, lots of equipment and materials and an opaque projector. A large screen TV allows them to show lessons or videos from YouTube.

“It’s a great place for ideas,” Barbara said. “Everyone is so supportive, not judgmental.”

Barbara worked on an art workshop for the Masonic Health Care Center staff. She and her sister, Marjory Woodburn (then vice president of MVAA), presented it to staff during an annual off-site retreat. It was slowrolling for the group following COVID-19, but they look forward to holding more workshops soon.

“We don’t have a ‘typical’ artist,” Jim said.

“We have some professionals, former teachers and those who just feel like doing it.

“I took a class once on Bob Ross at Boscov’s, but that’s it,” Eileen said. “I just enjoy it.”

While most artists create pieces for their own enjoyment, receiving a little recognition is nice, too. At the recent Elizabethtown Fair, Masonic Village was well represented. A total of 20 members of the Art Association submitted 73 entries. The artworks were in various mediums and competed in several categories, earning 44 ribbons. Eileen coordinated the submissions.

LIFELONG PASSION

When it comes to art, Carolind Parson “did it all and taught it all.” A graduate of Edinboro University, she has 35 years of experience in teaching fine arts, both publicly and privately. Her works have been exhibited at galleries and shows across the state, and her awards are numerous. You can find her artwork in private collections and local businesses.

Carolind is a Signature Artist and Life Member of the Pennsylvania Watercolor Society and Life Member of the Millersburg Art Association. Her preferred medium is watercolor, and her subjects include flowers, landscapes and animals, but she doesn’t limit herself.

“There isn’t any idea or object that hasn’t been painted,” she said. “In my artwork, I try to create a new visual approach and expression of numerous subjects utilizing various media.”

The MVAA was one of the main draws for Carolind’s move to Masonic Village.

“It’s friendly,” she said. “There are extremely good artists here. Most importantly, there are people who are happy, whether they’re self-trained or professionally trained.”

Barbara attended Indiana University of PA and Florida International University. Her first job was as an art teacher was in the Slippery Rock School District, and she has taught across the country, from Florida to Wisconsin, at schools, colleges, universities and museums. The MVAA was also a factor in her move to Masonic Village.

“I’ve had a great career,” she said. “I’m happy to be here and help if I can.”

Barbara’s pieces on display in the studio are landscapes done in watercolors.

“I’ve always loved art,” she said. “It has always been a part of my life. I still enjoy taking online courses. I can’t stop learning. You never master it; you’re never done.”

A NEW ADVENTURE

Nancy (shown in above bottom photo) has been involved in a lot during her time as a resident at Masonic Village, but art is a new frontier for her. She started off taking part in some of the wine and paint workshops and decided to pay the studio a visit.

One of her current pieces is a painting based on a photo of her great uncle playing the banjo. She’s tried portraits, structures, scenery and even did a piece featuring paintings on display in the studio (see above top photo).

“It’s a great example of Masonic Village providing for residents,” she said. “I just think a lot of this place. There are so many things to try and places to go and volunteer.”

Whether you were born with a paintbrush in hand or haven’t drawn a picture since elementary school, the MVAA has an easel open for you.

The art studio is open Monday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m., with Friday hours posted periodically.

“The art studio is a great place to go, just to relax and to learn or try something new,” Susan said. “It gets people out and about to socialize with others who may or may not have had an interest in doing art. They take the risk of trying something new. We encourage them to keep going because eventually they do win.”

“What I love about this place is it’s all available to everyone. Anybody can come down here and mess around with anything,” Sibyl said. “I just love it.”

ART in the AIR

With the number of classes offered, the amount of supplies available and the flourish of activity filling the space, the art studio at Masonic Village at Sewickley feels like a renowned art school. The artwork adorning the walls rivals that of a museum.

Residents can take advantage of open studio time and hone their skills through more than a dozen courses offered quarterly. The fall class schedule includes acrylics, basic drawing, ceramics, pastel passion, paper making, beginner watercolor, sand painting, colored pencils and finger painting. Instructors are Masonic Village residents and teachers from the nearby Sweetwater Center for the Arts.

“I don’t think you can get enough of art, and you should never just go with one medium,” resident and instructor Susan Bikowski (bottom photo, p. 19) said. “Try them all. Eventually, you’ll find your niche. It might be watercolors or acrylics or pastels or whatever. You’ll find one that you really enjoy.”

After a career in computer tech and healthcare management, Susan turned her focus to art. She has spent the last 10 years developing her skills, and for two years, mentored one-on-one with Christine Swann, one of only 25 artists in the world designated as an Eminent Pastellist by the International Association of Pastel Societies.

“It was learning pastels by fire. It’s the hardest thing to do,” she said. “I’m always surprised at what comes out. Every painting goes through a stage where you’re not sure whether to throw it in the trash can or try and keep pushing through it. But if you do push through, it all comes together. Art is my happy place!”

Susan teaches pastels and acrylics at Masonic Village and finds she gains as much teaching as her students do learning.

“I like to paint, and I love to share what I know,” she said. “Hopefully, others pick it up, and oftentimes I find they take off and pass right by me. The greatest joy of all is to watch them realize they can do it. They’re very good. They just let themselves go, and the art takes over.”

Karen Campbell (shown above) taught art for over 35 years. Her preferred media is watercolor pencil and colored pencil. Her current works are photo realistic and whimsical animals.

Sibyl McNulty is a teacher, lawyer and writer. In the art studio, she leads classes in Zentangle, which is scribbling or a collection of abstract patterns on small cards, and

Etegami, which is a combination of the Japanese words for ‘picture’ and ‘painting’ and is based on imperfection. She also teaches collage, which is “the idea that you’re borrowing other people’s art and rearranging it,” she said.

“I was teaching a course called Art for the Rest of Us because I’ve never considered myself an artist, and I’ve always been intimidated by art,” she said. “So I sort of teach junk art that you can’t go wrong with.”

Sibyl has taken many classes at the studio, including watercolor, face drawing, pastels and acrylics.

“I create for the fun of it,” she said. “I believe the pleasure is in the journey. I was watching a Bob Ross video, and he talks about happy little trees and happy little accidents. I was going along, when I realized I sprayed happy little dots all over the floor, the table and the wall, which I cleaned up. They still let me come back [to the studio].”

Judy Wenning (above, right, with Cordelia Jacobs) has taught a few classes on alcohol painting. The medium consists of putting alcohol on tiles and dropping in different colors. The colors mingle and dry and are topped off with finishing spray. During one class, they made coasters.

“I’ve loved doing art since I was 50,” Judy said, “and that was a few years ago now. The people here are wonderful, and we have a good time.”

Donna Billings is a former educator, professional executive coach and author. Her personal coach encouraged her to take watercolor lessons in her early 70s, and she’s since embraced the medium. Her instructors included well-known artists and an art therapist.

“I love working with residents who ‘think’ they cannot paint,” Donna said.

HIS HAPPY PLACE Finding

Chris Reynolds is well known at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, not only for his artistic skills but because he has lived here longer than any other retirement living resident – 22 years!

You’ll often find Chris in the campus woodshop, which he visits at least twice a day to work on a variety of art projects. His most recognizable items are his wooden collectables – from

mini-monogram Philadelphia Phillies shirts (he’s a big sports fan) to seasonal pumpkins, ghosts and turkeys. He often sells the work to residents, who proudly display them on their doors or inside their apartments.

“Sometimes I’ll see something in a magazine, and it will give me an idea,” Chris said. “I’ll cut

out the form [in wood], sand it and then paint it. I get a lot of requests. It makes me happy.”

A “jack-of-all-trades,” Chris also enjoys repairing chairs for residents, placing batteries in watches and making picture frames.

The woodshop has expanded significantly since Chris moved to Masonic Village. As more people move in, they bring additional equipment to add to the space.

“We started with just a drill press and a band saw, but different people came and brought table saws, chop saws and vices,” Chris said. “That made it grow. Now it’s one big room full of stuff.”

Chris spends most of this time making collectables for his two children, five grandchildren and seven greatgrandchildren. His front door is adorned with seven wooden Phillies shirts bearing the names of all his great-grandchildren in the order in which they were born. He recently designed wooden crosses for his grandchildren. When they get married, he inscribes a message on the back of the cross with the couple’s name on it.

Woodworking is fun for Chris and gives him something to help him relax and stay active. “How much can you read in the library or work on a puzzle?” he said. “I’d rather be doing something different.”

With that said, Masonic Village offers everything Chris said he needs, which is why he has stayed here so long. He and his late wife, Joan, moved here from Cape May, N.J., where their children own houses. He and Joan, who passed away in 2019, were married for 64 years.

“I love the beach,” he said. “All the children say, ‘once you get sand in your shoes, you can’t leave.’

It’s true. Unfortunately, I can’t get there as much anymore because I can’t go up and down stairs.”

Chris retired many years ago after 39 years working as an installer and repair man for the Bell Telephone Company.

He didn’t attend college but was lucky enough to find a job with a telephone company one week after graduating from high school in Philadelphia.

“I couldn’t believe it,” he said. “It was a good company, and I met a lot of nice people.”

Chris, a 58-year Mason and member of Fritz Masonic Lodge No. 308 in Conshohocken, served in the U.S. Marine Corps. in Korea from 1952 – 1954. His father was a Marine in World War I and his oldest brother fought in World War II.

Chris met his wife after he left the service. His cousin had a party that Joan attended. “We just hit it off,” he said. “She was a good wife.”

Chris has always been interested in making things. He’s entirely selftaught, having never taken an art class.

“It was something I had as a hobby,” he said. “I started with the Sunday comics, drawing and tracing and drawing again. As long as I am able to keep working, I’ll keep working.”

A PERFECT Fusion

Bill Lopasky’s stained glass creations adorn his house, and he even changes them out seasonally. While he takes credit for the “dirty work,” he gives the creative credit to his wife, Jan.

“My wife picks out the colors, I pick out the pattern,” he said. “She tells me how to do it, I do the soldering, cutting, grinding, drilling, etc. We’ve been a team for 61 years.”

After a career with the NFL and as a teacher and coach, followed by a few years fixing up his house, Bill was ready to retire and fill his time with something more relaxing. A distant relative introduced him to stained glass and gave him some lessons. He bought everything he needed at Warner Glass Art in Whitehall, Pa.

“I picked it up, and it was like a drug,” he said. “It’s relaxing. It helped that my wife liked my creations so much, although she yells at me if I spend too much time on it.”

His brother was surprised Bill landed on stained glass as a hobby, since it requires a lot of patience. The process includes coming up with a design, cutting and grinding the glass, soldering the lead that holds the glass pieces together, cementing it and drilling holes to hang it.

Bill has made flowers and butterflies, leaves, lamp shades, pumpkins, a snowman and his favorite, Santa Claus. Many of his pieces hang in the Lopasky’s sunroom at the Masonic Village at Dallas.

“People will say, ‘Gee, that’s beautiful. How’d you do that?’ and I’ll say, ‘I don’t know,’” Bill joked.

He’s sold a few pieces over the years, but he didn’t want to get into sales or being commissioned to do work.

“I wasn’t in it for the money,” he said.

“It makes it harder. I just want to enjoy it.”

He’s been practicing his art for about 22 years, and he still spends a few hours a week in his garage. Prices for supplies have gone up, but he hasn’t slowed down.

“It keeps my mind busy and my wife happy,” Bill said.

A Generous SERVICE

Faced with staff shortages affecting the food services industry as a whole, Masonic Village at Sewickley had to pause table service in its restaurant. Residents wanted to help with the situation, and being aware of scholarship programs at local schools, formed a Dining Services Scholarship Committee, which includes four residents and Eric Gross, executive director.

Their aim was to help recruit servers, most of whom are high school and college students, and offer them assistance with their future education by awarding scholarships made possible through donations from residents.

Thanks to the generosity of the residents, 11 dining room servers each received a $4,000 college scholarship.

“With the scholarship program, we thought it might encourage people to work here and put in more time and be rewarded,” committee co-chair Mike Glenn said. “We were so successful, we were able to increase our initial offer from $1,500-$2,000 scholarships to $4,000 scholarships. These kids are really great people. They’re good students and going into interesting areas of study.”

To qualify, servers must have worked at least 312 hours, submitted a short essay and application and already be attending or accepted to college. In total, more than $63,000 was contributed during what will become an annual campaign. The additional funds raised will be used for next year’s scholarships.

“Masonic Village feels like family,” said scholarship recipient David Binley, who has worked as a server since 2019 and is an economics major at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. “I appreciate going to work every day. I enjoy bringing in new people, training them and helping them see it’s a great place to work. Thanks to everyone who contributed, and thanks to Masonic Village for offering the opportunity for residents. It was very, very generous.”

Recipients, in addition to David, include: Hunter Brace, studying business at Slippery Rock University; Mia Burens, studying biology/pre-med at University of Pittsburgh; Natalie Grillo, studying accounting at Penn State University; Miranda Johns, studying forensic science/law at Duquesne University; Megan Meng, studying biology/pre-med at Duquesne University; Dylan Palmer, studying exercise science at Chatham University; Mary Pangburn, studying psychology/premed at Boston College; Zoe Staley, studying nursing at Beaver County Community College; Samuel Veleke, studying chemistry at University of Central Florida; and Jennifer Weiss, studying nursing at Carlow University.

The program is already having a positive impact on the recruitment of new servers. In the first three months of 2022, Masonic Village hired one server. In the following three months, after publicizing the scholarship program, Masonic Village hired five new servers.

Dreams

Thanks to Our Donors Memorial Gifts

The following memorial gifts were made May 1 - Aug. 31, 2022. 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 1-800-599-6454; 717-367-1121, ext. 33434; or by emailing giving@masonicvillages.org. Thank you.

John W. Albaugh Suzanne Wojewodzki

Jim and Jane Albert Wendy McDonald

John and Jean Albright Robert Fulton

Anthony Ambrose Masonic Village Travel Club

Marie Virginia Andrews Signet Chapter No. 129, O.E.S.

Robert C. Baessler Betty Deibert

Dona M. Balsbaugh ThermoFisher Scientific

Peter and Anna Barber Ray and Jo-Ann Foltz

Leicester K. Barry, Jr. James and Sharyl Giel, Jr.

Lillian (Geho) Beidleman Michael Beidleman

Howard A. Beiseigel John Beiseigel

Thomas Belk Arthur and Judith Jervis

Nancy Biehl W. Clark Biehl

JOIN THE CORNERSTONE

CIRCLE PROGRAM – Authorize a specified amount of money to be electronically transferred directly from your checking account or credit card monthly. This is the easiest form of giving, and a year-end statement makes tax preparation easy. Call 1-800-599-6454 or visit MasonicChartiesPa.org to join.

QUALIFIED CHARITABLE DISTRIBUTION (QCD) – If you are 70½ or older, you can use your IRA to support the mission of Masonic Villages. Call 1-800-599-6454 and ask for our QCD planning kit or to speak with a gift planner. Visit MasonicChartiesLegacy.org for more information.

AMAZON SMILE – When you shop at AmazonSmile for your holiday gifts, Amazon will donate 0.5% of the purchase price to the Masonic Villages. All your eligible purchases will benefit your selected charity every time you shop! Visit smile.amazon.com to get started.

YEAR-END CASH GIFT – A year-end gift will benefit Masonic Villages immediately! Visit MasonicCharitiesPa.org to make your gift.

James E. Bierbower Charleroi-Monongahela Lodge No. 337 Carlton Brown Earl Donoho

Frederick Pracht

Olin and Gladys Brubaker Karl Buus

Edward Budman Oscar and Angila Smith IV Charles and Hilda Buehler Clintin Probst and Karen Buehler-Probst

Clyde E. Burkholder Sarah Burkholder

Robert J. Carwithen Christine Dewees

Christian Reynolds

Richard and Margaret Case Dennis and Sylvia Ulion

Dixie Lee Corwin Richard Corwin

Jeffrey and Dorothy Coy Jo Anne Coy

Charles E. Culp Charleroi-Monongahela Lodge No. 337

Marvin A. Cunningham Dennis and Karen Stoops

Dorothy Davis George Rendell

Jason L. Dean Richard L. Dean

Chester A. and Marion E. Derk, Sr. Chester and Barbara Derk, Jr.

Darlene Dixon Richard and Deborah Friedman

Ord L. Dixon Jean Dixon

James J. Donnon John and Joan Groves

Daniel Doster Bruce and Ethel Joan Howarth

Laura W. Dove Albert Dove James and Marcia Duncan Jimmie and Barbara Erwin, Jr. Anna Mae Eiceman Berle Eiceman

Richard E. Enck Esther Enck Mary Erickson Carol Aeberli G. Edward McLellan

Charles F. Evans Charleroi-Monongahela Lodge No. 337 Harold Evans Kaj Skov

J. Philip Fawley Pamela Sue Braden Frank E. Foutz Elizabeth Foutz

Barbara L. Frantz Robert Frantz

Charles and Ruth Frederick Perry and Nancy Bogert Charles G. Frishmuth Ronald and Katherine Frishmuth

Wallace W. Furman Ferne Furman

Russell B. and Mary Ellen Gehris Paul and Katherine Gehris

George E. Graefe Mary Graefe

Joan H. Hall William Hall

Elaine Hardie Family of Elaine Hardie Helen Hetson Leonard Hetson

Robert J. Hirsch Matthew Tyler Langer Hirsch

Jerome L. and Kathryn Hitz Paul Thompson Robert L. Hobday John and Mary Ellen Montgomery Betty J. Hoehn Albert Hoehn

Walter J. Hopkins Charleroi-Monongahela Lodge No. 337

Emma V. Horne Mary Anne Cooling

John F. and Violet J. Hull Glenn Hull David and Alicia Hunsberger Timothy and Fay Pletcher Mildred “Millie” Jamison Betty Deibert

Happy Mad Hatters

Edith Kane

Deanne Molinari

Susan Jason David and Gina Jason

Robert F. Johnston Houseman Lodge No. 211 Howard Kane, Jr. Camilla Anderson

Clarence Brockman David and Nancy Halliwell

Elizabeth Horak

Edith Kane

Josephine Mayes Ronald and Judy McKnight Gene and Nancy McMillen

John Phillips

David Keesey Juanita M. Keesey

Gerald E. “Jerry” Kemmerer Laureen Cook

Raymond and Darlene Fairfax Kenneth Gies James and Betty Gotta

Prudence Mann

Masonic Village Travel Club

Dave Matyas

Charles Snyder

Earl M. and Mae Kline Eugene and Anna Kline

Albert Kling, Jr. Albert Kling

R. Glee Kling Elizabethtown Masonic Village Shrine Club

Virginia Knight Robert and Jacque Knight III

Wilma Kolbe Andrew and Doris Zelez

Rose Kreider Randy Kreider

Donald E. Kreitz Donald Kreitz and Shirley Tackett

Donald Kugle Elizabethtown Masonic Village Shrine Club

Linda Kurtz Kay Duffy

Joseph F. “Bud” Lauck Joseph C. Lauck and the Lauck Family

Thomas Learn Susan Shildt

John T. Lee Charleroi-Monongahela Lodge No. 337

Lee and Helen Lindermuth Gary and Linda Lindermuth

Kurt Lee Linhart Gene and Connie Benner Bruce and Diane Haas

Gary and Lois Hovis

Dominick Lizzi David and Alda Lizzi, Sr.

Virginia Long Roger and Yvonne Calhoon

Harry K. Longenecker Doris Longenecker

Anthony and Jean Loy Clintin Probst and Karen Buehler-Probst

John T. Lutz Mahlon and Christine Fuller

Jimmy Mack Engracia Mack

Jessie C. MacNeil Arthur and Judith Jervis

Charles F. Marshall, Jr. Charleroi-Monongahela Lodge No. 337

Audrey J. McBride Gregg McBride, Jr.

Scott McCafferty Charleroi-Monongahela Lodge No. 337

Paul E. Meyers Donald Meyers

Joyce Miller William and Donna Miller

Edward H. Monefeldt Jane Strock

William L. Moore Isabel Carmen Moore

William L. Moore II Isabel Carmen Moore

G. Edward Morelock Jane Girton

Cheryl Sutton

Bill Morris Robert and Nancy McNamara Vern and Rosemary Young

Alvin “Ziggy” Mucci Charleroi-Monongahela Lodge No. 337

Ralph F. Mueller, Sr. Ralph Mueller

Walter E. Muschar Richard and Dorothy Winter

James C. Nickle Thomas and Terry Kamerzel Thomas and Deborah Nickle

Melissa Pagbeleguen Ellwood City Chapter No. 212, O.E.S. Beatrice K. Phillips John Phillips

Robert A. Reinecke Southampton Square Club

Jay Riefler Frederick and Mary Lou Kauffman

James C. Rippel Charleroi-Monongahela Lodge No. 337

Kenneth J. Ritter Alan and Gail Yeakel

Robert L. Rohrbaugh Isabel Rohrbaugh

Pat Royer Bryan and Eileen Hill

Billie J. Savickas John Savickas

Horace and Annetta Schantz H. Walker Schantz

Esther Scheuermann John Letsch and Adalena Wilson

Arling H. Schmidt Wendy Schmidt

Kenneth F. Schnabel Richard and Mary Ann Schmitt Kenneth and Mary Jane Schnabel

William R. Schuler, Sr. William and Joanne Schuler

Betty Seelhorst Kenneth and Elaine Bleiler

Mary M. Sellers Mary Yeager

Kim Shelley Donald and C. Jane Hacker II

Charles K. Shetterly Charleroi-Monongahela Lodge No. 337

Dolores F. Shott Thomas Shott

Twila Shreffler Bryan and Eileen Hill

James R. Silvius Masonic Village Amateur Radio Club

Frederick A. Sketchley Houseman Lodge No. 211

Darlene Smith Kenneth and Janet Burd

Elizabethtown Masonic Village Shrine Club Masonic Village Travel Club Doris Wardell Nichols

Kenneth and Mary Jane Schnabel

F. Gene and Linda Shellenberger, Jr. Dean and Linda Wise

Lester V. Smith, Sr. Douglas and Gloria Smith

Robert W. “Bob” Smith Stephen and Susan Besecker

Tedd Keefer, Jr. Randy and Paula March Eddie and Cheryl Miller

John and Donna Schmitt, Sr. Thomas and Karyn Sloat Donald and Diane Zeigler

Roland Snyder David and Judith Kurtz

Ruth E. Steeb Peter and Mary Steeb

James Robert Stewart Joan Stewart

Lawrence H. Strayer P. Sidney and Suzanne Strayer

Melvin P. Strayer P. Sidney and Suzanne Strayer

William A. Strayer P. Sidney and Suzanne Strayer

Sherri A. Sutter Elizabethtown Chapter No. 407, O.E.S. Carolyn Ruch

The Shafer Family

Charlie Telfer Nora Beyers

Franklin A. Terry Houseman Lodge No. 211

Nancy Marie (Hitz) Thompson Paul Thompson

Eugene and Marjorie Tierney Ray and Annette Tierney John C. Tondora Stephen and Jennifer Tooley Douglas E. Toothaker Nancy Toothaker Ruth Turpin James and Betty Gotta Norman R. Veit Houseman Lodge No. 211 Miles and Stella Vukas Jim and Cynthia Kovacevich Herman and Blanche Walters David and Alice Bechtel

Elsie K. Weyrauch William and Alexandra Weyrauch Rose H. Wible Donald and Sandra Kunz Imogene Wigglesworth Vaughan Darwin Sherman

Daniel P. Wineland Charleroi-Monongahela Lodge No. 337

Thomas Worrall, Jr. Masonic Village Travel Club Elvin Yeagley Bryan and Eileen Hill Donald L. Yost Centennial Commandery No. 55 Knights Templar Joseph Zelez William and Teresa Wahlsteen Catherine Zimmerman Barry and Donna Zimmerman

Honorarium Gifts

The following honorarium gifts were made May 1 - Aug. 31, 2022. 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.

Miriam Bennett Barbara Racki

Ruth Bowyer Southampton Slipper Club

Mirna Carlin Stefania Tiwari

Charity Lodge No. 144 John and Joan Lee

Cindie Donnon John and Joan Groves

Raymond A. Dubbs Wayne and Debra Dubbs

Jean C. Frishmuth Ronald and Katherine Frishmuth

Paul J. Fulton Eva Fulton

Elizabeth Hahn Louis Hahn

Robin Krueger William and Kathy Prazenica

Marjorie Learn Susan Shildt

George B. Lohr Jacob Beal Lohr

Isabel Penny Martin Lance and Amy Martin

Betty L. Nickle Thomas and Terry Kamerzel

Stephanye Smith Heath and Holly Mackley Staff on Roosevelt 2nd Floor Michael and Joan Kuhn Paul and Shirley Weaver William and Sandra Burns

David Whitenack Michael Crim

Deanne Molinari

Howard Kane, Jr.

PA

OUR MISSION: To empower and inspire our Masonic Community to achieve their potential and enjoy the highest possible quality of life by being a Center of Excellence in providing person-centered residential, health care and wellness services, home and community-based services, outreach services and ancillary operations.

Masonic Village at Sewickley