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Summer 2021 Vol. 31, No. 3 The Masonic Villages include locations in Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill, Sewickley and Warminster. Submissions for the fall issue of the Village Voice are due Sept. 1. 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.
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Inside this Issue 3 A New Look for Warminster 3 One Significant Feat
The Masonic Villages is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
4 Learning on the Job
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.
10 Convenience and Connection
6 Onward & Upward
20 Community Report 23 Generous Stories and Steps 25 Memorial Gifts 27 Honorarium Gifts
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COVER STORIES Cooking Up Community 12 A “Foodie” Family Tradition 14 Sweet Memories 16 Growing Love for the Community 18 The Legacy of Walp’s Restaurant On the cover: Travis Markel, cook, Masonic Village at Elizabethtown (see his story on p. 16).
A New Look for Warminster Already an inviting and caring community on the inside, Masonic Village at Warminster is now even more welcoming on the outside! Warfel Construction started renovating the building’s exterior and front foyer in October 2020 (a project delayed due to COVID-19 restrictions) and completed the updates in April.
One Significant Feat Noah Davis has been the executive director of Masonic Village at Dallas and Irem Clubhouse since 2010. Now, he can also be called “doctor.” Noah obtained his doctorate degree in public health in May from the University at Albany in New York. He is a licensed nursing home administrator and holds a Bachelor of Science in hotel, restaurant and institutional management and a master’s degree in public administration. Noah plans to use his advanced degree to continue providing program options to the residents at Masonic Village at Dallas. This includes advancing the wellness and health programs to keep residents active and healthy. One of these programs is the Balance and Fall Prevention Program. Noah and the Dallas team collaborated with Misericordia University’s Physical Therapy department to start this program in
2015 with the goal of improving older adults’ balance and strength as they aged. The program provides exercise, physical therapy and “fall prevention in the home” education for residents. “With my education, I have the opportunity to help residents and students learn more about the benefits of a sustained balance and fall prevention program,” Noah said. This opportunity, along with being an adjunct professor at Marywood University, allows Noah to keep furthering his education even after earning the highest degree. He said finishing his doctorate degree was not easy, but is a significant feat. “To know that I persevered while working full-time, supporting three children through college and going through a pandemic is the most rewarding result,” Noah said. “I hope to set an example for other adults that advanced education is possible.” MasonicVillages.org
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Learning on the Job The 2021 graduates of the Lancaster-Lebanon Intermediate Unit 13 (IU13) Masonic Village Work Immersion program are happy they made it through the school year successfully, overcoming more than just academic challenges. While similar programs across the state were placed on hold due to COVID-19, Masonic Village staff and IU13 instructors found a way to keep students safely in the classroom and on the job. What started as a partnership with Masonic Village’s laundry department two years ago has turned into a comprehensive internship program with opportunities in maintenance, environmental services, food services, landscape and laundry. The students gain life enrichment and job skills and graduate prepared to join the work force at Masonic Village or in the community. “The program is for students ages 17 to 21 who need some extra instruction to improve their future employability skills,” Allysa Wenrich, IU13 program instructor, said. “These students really just need some guidance in social skills and soft skills that aren’t necessarily taught in a typical high school.” Students spend part of their day in a classroom on the ground level of Grand Lodge Hall and the rest of their time completing internships with Masonic Village staff 4
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who underwent training to be effective mentors. “There’s a lot of passion here, and everyone’s just ready to pitch in and get the job done,” Holly Simmers, IU13 job trainer, said.
“We are teaching them all the time, but they actually show us different things and teach us,” Darla Putt, environmental services worker, said. “I really enjoy working with them. They make me laugh and keep my morale up.” Bob Schaeffer, landscape mechanic, worked with Connor, who was hired for a seasonal position in Masonic Village’s landscape department. “It’s challenging sometimes, but it’s worthwhile,” Bob said. “It’s helping them out, and it helps us out. [Connor] is doing stuff by himself that I had to help him with before. Now I can tell him to do it, and he gets it done. It gives me time to work on something else in the shop and keep an eye on him.” An Open Book of Opportunity “It lets me get the experience I need to get a job here or somewhere else,” said Drew, a 2021 graduate of the
Everett, a 2021 IU13 graduate
Evan, an IU13 student, working with Darla in environmental services
program who interned in Masonic Village’s food services department as a busser. “I’m pretty prepared for the real world once I’m done. I’ve grown a lot and matured; become more of an adult.” Everett, also a 2021 graduate, spent time on the housekeeping utilities crew assisting residents with moving and with annual cleanings of residents’ apartments.
“There’s a lot of job opportunities here,” Everett said. “Masonic Villages is an open book to try anything new. They’ll take it slow and help you build up to those steps.” He enjoyed working with staff who he thought of as his own family. “We always watch out for one another,” he said. “The residents are sweet, wise and caring as well. They appreciate having someone help them move heavy stuff. It makes me feel good about myself that I’m able to help a person in need.” The real motivator for everyone involved is when instructors and staff see the students grow and reach their potential. “Their confidence really grows, and
their ability to communicate with not only each other, but with adults, really improves,” Allysa said. “At Masonic Village, we’re able to have that direct link and show students this is why it matters to be kind and respectful. This is now a place of work, and now I'm an adult.” “I think for Masonic Village, this is one of the best opportunities that have come their way,” Darla said. “I'm very proud to say that I work at Masonic Village. It’s challenging, but I think we’re one step ahead with this program compared to other companies. We’re giving [the students] a lot of chances here.” Residents have been supportive of the program as well. They interact with students, whether it’s in a hallway or when a student is helping clean their home. They know the students by name and often ask the instructors how the program is going. “We spend a lot of time in the Grand Lodge [Hall], so we’re always passing by residents. There are a lot of opportunities for the interns to interact with them socially,” Nathaniel Wright, IU13 job trainer, said. “It may be just a simple greeting or asking how their day is going. It’s really neat to see the interns ask that first and have that interaction with them.”
Drew, a 2021 IU13 graduate
Working Toward the Future When COVID-19 caused delays or even shut down some work immersion programs at other communities, it was important to instructors and staff to continue students’ progress. Online learning struggles to replicate real world experience, so after meeting with Masonic Village’s infection control team, they developed a plan to keep everyone safe without interrupting the program. “We thank Masonic Village for being willing to take on our program,” Allysa said. “By following their policies and regulations and keeping an open communication, we were able to stay open basically all year and give students experiences that not everybody could always get.” After overcoming the logistical challenges of COVID-19, future opportunities for the program seem limitless at Masonic Village. “The longer we are here as an inperson program, the more we get to know the different departments and people, and we have the ability to expand into other areas and create unique experiences for interns,” Allysa said. “We have quite a variety of roles here. It’s not your typical health care or even retirement community.”
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Onward & Upward Silver Linings of a Stormy Year
Wellness – Inside and Out Staff at the Baird Wellness Center in Elizabethtown will continue to offer personal training via Zoom and add Zoom options to all their wellness coaching, workshops, classes and support groups. The Barley Wellness Center in Sewickley will also keep providing virtual classes to give residents more options. In Lafayette Hill, staff hope to continue one-onone visits in resident apartments for those who may have interest.
Nancy and William Pearson celebrate at a Fourth of July picnic in Elizabethtown.
Reflecting on nearly a year and a half of restrictions and changes, everyday life is slowly returning to normal across Masonic Villages’ campuses. The COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges, which led residents and staff to alter the way we gather, communicate, work, eat, shop and even leave our homes. As we make daily decisions on what restrictions to loosen, Masonic Villages’ staff also reflect on silver linings which have emerged since last March. Dining and Food Services Eating without the company of friends and family became the norm last year, which was especially isolating for those who live alone. Masonic Villages’ restaurants have gone through different occupancy levels over the last 18 months, but as of late July, are all fully open.
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Meal delivery will continue to be available for retirement living residents, and deliveries continue to be popular even with restrictions lifted. Groceries may still be delivered in Elizabethtown, with options through the gift shop in Lafayette Hill and home care services in Sewickley. “Residents like to experience dining at least once a day, see their friends and be social, so we anticipate those who are able will transition back to inperson dining,” Greg Thomas, director of food services, Elizabethtown, said. In Dallas, more residents participated in the meal plans during the pandemic because of convenience and continue to take advantage of them even with restrictions lifted. There are also grab-and-go options now available in the Walther Apartments.
“I’m encouraged by staff’s flexibility during a pandemic to endure new tasks and still deliver an outstanding product for our residents,” Mark Cerneskie, wellness manager, Sewickley, said. The experience has also inspired Baird Wellness Center staff to develop more outdoor programming, such as corn hole, kickball and biking and walking groups. “I am hoping this experience will lead more people to focus on being well,” Stacy Schroder, director of wellness and prevention, Elizabethtown, said. “We have emphasized ways to boost immunity and how to practice stress reduction over this past year, and we also remain focused on mental health.” “When you aren’t able to ‘physically’ do something, you are forced to look at other aspects of wellness – the foods you are eating, how you are taking care of your mind, your friendships
– those kind of things become even more important,” Kara LaFreeda, wellness manager, Lafayette Hill, said. “We would like to see that continue even as gyms open.” Staying Engaged With the cancellation of movies, concerts, games and all group activities, staff and residents were challenged to think more creatively and learn to use tools they may have initially been hesitant to try. Residents in retirement living areas increasingly used technology, such as Zoom, to connect with family members or physicians. In Elizabethtown, some clubs even used Zoom for meetings, which will remain a good option for some groups moving forward. In Elizabethtown and Lafayette Hill, virtual bingo was popular during the pandemic, and staff plan to continue it. In Warminster, they alternate between hosting bingo in their large community room and hosting it in residential hallways. Staff there also used carts to deliver food, drinks and activities directly to residents’ rooms for special occasions, which will be useful in the future to engage with residents who may be unable to leave their room. “For Friday’s Happy Hour, we brought the Happy Cart to them,” Trisha Lamb, activity director, Warminster, said. In Lafayette Hill, retirement living residents were able to take advantage of virtual tours, like the National Constitution Center, in Philadelphia, but staff feel residents are ready to get back to some normalcy. “They have missed being around one another,” Angela Hurst, director of recreation, said. “The energy the community feel gives off is so rewarding to them. I believe when people are lonely, it causes depression and anxiety. Residents are excited about the human contact.” In Sewickley, both staff and residents are eager to get back to in-person groups, large or small, although staff have learned virtual programming has greatly improved in delivery and content. It has allowed them to “take” residents to places they wouldn’t be able to see otherwise. They also saw benefits in small or one-onone interactions with residents in nursing and personal care areas, according to Ann Beck, recreation director. “My staff has frequently commented that doing more one-on-one visits for longer periods has enabled them to get to know individual residents on a deeper level and to The Bowman’s meet their specific interests and needs at a higher level,” Wedding Photo From 1949
Dallas resident Kathy Dolembeski takes advantage of the CIP Rehabilitation services offered on-site.
Ann said. “This has been beneficial both to staff and residents. We have also seen benefits in programming more often for smaller groups of 10 or fewer. We can tailor the program better to meet particular interests.” Sell Chapel in Elizabethtown started a YouTube channel to broadcast services, and spiritual care staff will continue to use the channel since many residents have appreciated being able to watch the services online. “One of the wonderful things we have seen is our residents enjoying the outside services, and we look forward to continuing these,” Pastor Preston Van Deursen, director of spiritual care, Elizabethtown, said. “We’ve heard from residents that we have kept many of them encouraged and watching to receive God’s blessings.” Health Care Services With families unable to visit, video chats became part of daily activities across all nursing and personal care areas throughout the state and was embraced positively by families. From April through December of 2020, staff estimate they assisted with 12,756 video chats.
“Our adaption to technology and its offerings will continue to help us connect families, even across the globe,” Matt Mayo, assistant executive director/nursing home administrator, Elizabethtown, said. Whether video chat continues to be used as often will vary by resident. While families appreciated it, some residents were hesitant to embrace it, according to Tracy Leja, assistant executive director, Sewickley. With additional
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iPads available to staff, it is comforting to know residents have the choice. Also, the use of telehealth “has been a lifesaver and positive tool to care for residents,” she said. Kelly Weaver, executive director, Warminster, and her team have used technology to make simple changes like allowing families to participate in care conferences via video chat, which was something they hadn’t done prior to COVID-19. Beyond restricting family visits, the hardest part of the pandemic for staff was when residents tested positive and, unfortunately, passed away as a result of COVID-19. Compassion for family members and accommodating them, while still following safety regulations, was a top priority. “With the exception of three residents who passed unexpectedly, we were able to get every resident’s family in to have their final visits and say their goodbyes,” Tracy said. “That is something we are very proud of – residents and families had time together.” The silver lining of the pandemic for Melissa Sudduth, assistant executive director, Lafayette Hill, was “seeing staff so dedicated and hardworking to meet the needs of our residents,” she said. “This was a scary time for all of us. We had positive cases in March and April [2020], and to see some staff really step up and take on extra tasks to ensure residents were taken care of was heartwarming. We have a great team and employees who really care.” Masonic Villages’ staff and residents weren’t in it alone. They had the support of government and community partners, donors and the Masonic fraternity.
“We are fortunate to have supportive donors, including Masonic lodges, the Order of the Eastern Star chapters and other partners who provided supplies and financial donations to help keep our residents and employees safe and services continuing uninterrupted,” Matt said.
be family’ versus a family member and caregiver, which can lead to burnout,” Lisa Livingston, administrator for home and community based services, said.
Helping Families “Just Be Family”
Welcoming New Residents
Masonic Village at Elizabethtown saw an increase in home health and home care service utilization due to families unable to freely visit as they were before to help their loved ones. This growth has sustained and continues to grow, even as restrictions are lifted.
To reach prospective residents, virtual tours and events were the only option for several months. Staff now have new tools in their toolbox, and will continue to use them in the future, for those who may live farther away from the campus of their choice or for anyone who prefers to learn from the comfort of their home.
“I believe COVID-19 propelled it, but the need was always there and just underutilized. Many family members are now more aware of our services that allow them to ‘just 8
Top photo, residents in Warminster enjoy a group activity in July. Bottom photo, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra visits Sewickley in June.
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“Considering the higher risk of infection/spread in hospitals and healthcare settings, etc., more people prefer to receive services in their own homes.”
In Lafayette Hill, while it wasn’t a preferred impetus for change, the pandemic led staff to think more creatively. “I see that as a positive,” Bridget Harris,
caring for people. We've had several residents tell us how relieved they were to be in a place like Masonic Village since big decisions were made on their behalf.” In Dallas, staff saw a huge increase in people interested in moving, which Joy Hubshman, director of sales and marketing, felt was a result of the pandemic causing people to shelter in home. “Here, you’re around other residents,” Joy said. “It pushed them into a position to want to plan for the future. Unforeseen things can occur, and they now understand the benefits of living in a community during unprecedented times.” Silver Linings “This past year has been eventful to say the least,” Angela said. “It has opened up my eyes to many things, one being the value of life, how we choose to live it and how we let it define us as human beings. We are all pieces of a puzzle in life, and we all have a place to fit in that puzzle. At Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, staff in all areas pulled together to make it through this pandemic. We were dedicated to the mission and continue to be. The silver lining is simply to have faith things will work out if we all work together.” “The Masonic Village at Warminster team showed up and supported our residents throughout the roughest of times, and we are proud of the work they accomplished and are proud of our community,” Kelly Weaver said. “The relationships we have with our residents and families were strengthened throughout the crisis, and we hold on to that.” Celebrating Father’s Day: top photo (l-r), Bob and Gloria Hocking and Annette Girsh, in Elizabethtown, and bottom photo, Chris Reynolds and Herb Thomas, in Lafayette Hill.
director of sales and marketing, Lafayette Hill, said. “We can use technology to our advantage and be open to different forms of communication. In-person is always best, but we now have other options.” In Elizabethtown, the initial response of prospective residents was mixed. Some opted to move forward with their plans since they were confident Masonic Village would keep them safe, while others placed plans on pause until immunization rates increased. Interest has grown significantly since the spring. “Our response has shown our residents and their families that Masonic Village at Elizabethtown has the staff and resources to take care of all our residents’ needs, whether it is a simple health concern or a worldwide pandemic,” Kelly Eakin, director of sales and marketing, said. “It reaffirms our long-standing history and experience in
“We were able to keep our residents safe, and they were very appreciative,” Joy said. “Family members felt safer knowing their loved ones were here.”
“Our whole community has always been a giving, caring community ready to assist others, but through this pandemic, we have seen extraordinary efforts,” Stacy Schroder said. “Our residents and employees stepped up beyond our expectations.” “We will always be grateful for the support from corporate, our sister facilities, our team members and the families who were so patient and understanding,” Tracy said. “We really were all in this together.”
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“I love my little baby Alexa, and that is something, because I’m not a ‘techy’ person. I’ve been using it as an alarm clock and to listen to music.” ~ resident Celine Childs Through K4Connect, the device can tie into Masonic Village’s activities calendar. Residents can keep track of schedules by asking Alexa to recite the day’s events. This provides one more way residents can stay connected within the community.
Convenience & Connection Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill residents have been enjoying the free Echo Dots they received from Amazon.com through a device donation program that began in January 2021 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Masonic Village received 76 Echo Dot devices which were distributed to retirement living residents. Masonic Village plans to purchase enough devices so everyone in retirement living who wants one can have one. In addition, all incoming residents will receive an Echo Dot. The Amazon Echo Dot, more commonly known as an Alexa, is a hockey puck-shaped smart speaker and a more compact version of the original Amazon Echo. Residents simply can give voice commands to answer questions, get a weather report, find a local business, play music and hundreds of other tasks. Director of Sales and Marketing Bridget Harris has been educating residents about how the device works and some frequently used commands. The device is also programmed to dial several phone numbers within Masonic Village, such as food services and the front desk. Reminders can be set and used for appointments and medication reminders, too. “Residents stop me in the hall to tell me how much fun they are having with Alexa,” Bridget said. “It is a great way for people who don’t consider themselves tech-savvy to try something new. You can’t break it and there are no buttons to push – if you can talk, you can use an Echo Dot.” 10
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K4Connect integrates smart technologies into a single system for older adults and individuals living with disabilities. It consists of an app that Masonic Village has named Village Connect, through which residents can view campus news and updates, dining menus, event calendars, a resident directory, games and photo/video sharing, as well as access to smart home technology features. After thorough testing and trials in Elizabethtown, the benefits were rolled out to Masonic Villages’ campuses in Dallas, Lafayette Hill and Sewickley beginning in 2017. Masonic Village at Warminster recently received 19 Echo Dot devices for their personal care residents in January, and they are being given to those who are interested at this time, Kelly Weaver, executive director, said. For many residents, the Echo Dot may be the only piece of technology they have. For others, it’s a good companion device to a cell phone, laptop or iPad. “I love my little baby Alexa, and that is something, because I’m not a ‘techy’ person,” Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill resident Celine Childs (shown above) said. “I’ve been using it as an alarm clock and to listen to music.” Celine said she’s grateful to have received the device from Masonic Village. “I’m thrilled they supplied them. They are a nice gift to get.” Resident Chris Reynolds, also from Lafayette Hill, said he listens to the Phillies game on the device until he falls asleep, and then wakes up in the middle of the night to ask Alexa what the score is. “I could never do that before,” he said. “I had to turn the TV on and listen to 20 minutes of commercials to find out who won. It’s very convenient. The other day, I asked her to play music. On Memorial Day, I asked her to play marches, and she played them. I’m very happy with it.”
Cooking Up Community Making food for others is an act of love, whether it’s for family, friends, neighbors or someone you’ve never met. Meals make for good times and great memories. Masonic Villages’ residents and staff share what has motivated them in the kitchen and their “recipes” for a nourishing life.
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A “Foodie” Family Tradition Pete Countouris was born into the food industry. His family’s food roots were planted in 1912 when his grandfather opened a Coney Island hot dog restaurant on the east side of Pittsburgh. His father proceeded to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps, opening a “streetcar” diner in the city. Pete and his brother worked in their father’s restaurant as teenagers and young adults until they decided to open a family-style restaurant of their own, “Drew’s Family Restaurant.” In the meantime, Pete obtained a degree in business administration and management from Duquesne University, which furthered his knowledge of how to own and operate a business. Combining his experience and love for food with his new knowledge of business, Pete decided to take the plunge and ventured out on his own, opening “Pete’s Island Grill,” which was a 230-seat restaurant, part of a sports complex along the Ohio River. 12
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He owned and operated the business before selling it and joining Masonic Village. Through all of Pete’s experiences and successes within the food industry, he’s learned several lessons. However, there’s one he shared that resonates with him the most: “It doesn’t matter how good your marinara sauce is. What matters is your return on investment.” Today, Pete uses his several decades of experience and several generations of influence to shine in his role as the director of food services at Masonic Village at Sewickley. His days are very different from the time he spent working in and owning family restaurants, but he “loves it.” “With restaurants, there’s lots of dollars and cents involved and lots of time commitment,” Pete said. “I worked seven days a week. Masonic Village has basically changed my lifestyle.” Pete added that transitioning to Masonic Village wasn’t “too hard” because he “already had a reputation.”
“A lot of people who live here were actually my customers,” Pete said. During his 17 years at Masonic Village, he’s had a significant impact on the food services department. This impact includes spearheading several food services renovations, such as updating the dining room, installing a stone oven in the main dining room to make items like wood-fired pizzas and adding a pub. “They’ve had enough faith in me to believe in the changes that I’ve made here, so that’s refreshing,” Pete said. He finds that being able to implement these positive changes for the residents is one of the more rewarding aspects of his position. He enjoys being able to work with the residents, in general, because he “has a great relationship with them.” In his personal life, Pete has also had an opportunity to spend a great deal of time with the residents, as he has been a Mason for 18 years. “I jump on the [Masonic Village] bus with residents sometimes … since we have so much to talk about,” Pete said. “It’s nice having a lot in common with them and to go to lodge with the guys who are here.” Pete has plenty of experience in the food industry, but he can’t say the same about being in the kitchen in his home. He said he doesn’t usually cook because he’s married to “an Iron Chef” who has been cooking since fifth grade. “Cooking is her favorite thing to do. I pretty much just cook a couple of steaks in the backyard sometimes,” Pete said. Although Pete isn’t typically the one cooking, he does use his skills occasionally to cook at his church for their food festival. His position at Masonic Village allows him more time to get involved in his community than he had as a restaurant owner. “My last place was open at 11 a.m. and closed at 2 a.m. You have to spend a lot of time in the industry if you want to be successful,” Pete said, “Now I actually volunteer and go to church with my family. But at first, I was like the fifth wheel.”
Pete also likes to spend his time gardening, golfing and traveling to Greece, where he has dual citizenship. Since he enjoys Masonic Village so much, Pete said he has no plans to leave any time soon.
“I’m closing in on retirement … but as long as my key opens my door, and they still want me around, I’ll keep working,” Pete said. By Katy Shero, public relations associate/intern
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Sweet Memories Carmella Dziura spent much of her life surrounded by the aroma of fresh rolls, tomato pies and oreganata. The Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill resident was born and raised in Philadelphia’s Manayunk section and worked from a young age at her family-owned bakery, Consolo Bakery, a well-loved establishment on the corner of Hermitage and Smick Streets. “I was born into the business,” she said. “My parents ran it, and then after my dad died, it was my mother, my three brothers, my three sisters and me. We all helped.” Her Italian mother, Domenica Consolo, was known for her kind heart and contributions to the community. “She took in everyone in need [to the bakery] and sent kids home with fresh rolls or a couple of loaves of bread. She would give them cookies if she heard one of the servicemen were coming home.” For her efforts, Domenica received a silver plate from the Order Sons of Italy in America - Ivy Ridge Lodge No. 251 in 1966. Her picture was featured prominently in the Roxborough Review newspaper. The bakery was also featured often in what was then the Pennsylvania Bulletin. Consolo Bakery, which opened in the 1920s, closed for a short time during World War II, after Carmella’s brothers were drafted into the Army and her father died. “My mom had offers [from people] to buy the shop, but she said the boys would run it when they got home if they wanted to,” Carmella said. “And they did. It stayed open until about 10 years ago, and then it was sold, torn down and replaced by houses. I originally lived in a house that was connected to the bakery.”
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Carmella said her favorite thing about the bakery was the customers, mostly her neighbors. Everyone knew and looked out for each other. Carmella would bag goodies, take orders or greet people, depending on the need at the time. She spoke both English and Italian, which came in handy when working with customers.
“I was a good baker’s helper,” she said. “I learned from my mom and brothers and sisters. We had a coal oven and everything was done by hand. Baking is very relaxing. And I knew we were doing something good for the community.” When she wasn’t at the bakery, Carmella worked at Wells Fargo in downtown Philadelphia. She also volunteered with Catholic Charities and the state doing social work. Today, at 85 years old, Carmella doesn’t bake as much as she used to. Her children affectionately call her the “cookie monster” because she’s always eating store-bought cookies and other sweets. Carmella has two children, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Her daughter, who lives in New
York, sees her often. Her son, who lives in Delaware County, visits every Saturday. Carmella was married to her husband Walter for 61 years. Walter and others nicknamed Carmella “Chick” because, “I was always very short and his friends would say, ‘you’re no taller than a chicken!’ It never left me, even in old age!” Walter died in January, and Carmella moved to Masonic Village in April.
“I have no complaints about living here, I just wish my husband lived long enough to join me,” she said. “Everyone is very nice and friendly. Half of my graduating class is here. People recognize me. It makes me feel good.” Carmella was already familiar with Masonic Village because she used to accompany a friend there to visit her mother. When it came time to find a senior living community for herself, she knew it was the right choice. “We looked at other places, but I liked this place the best,” she said. “The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable. They answered all my questions. I wanted someplace small to live with a patio. And I didn’t have to wait long.”
Top left, a photo of Carmella’s mother, Domenica Consolo. Top right, Carmella in her Masonic Village kitchen. Middle right, the family bakery’s delivery truck. Bottom right, Domenica accepts the 21st Ward Community Service Award.
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Growing Love for the Community James Harkness and Travis Markel share a dedication to showing their love in the kitchen and in their communities. James works as a cook’s helper at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, but fills his free time with community service. Travis, who is a cook at Elizabethtown, does the same. Originally from New Jersey, James came to Masonic Village two years ago. When he moved to the area, Elizabethtown Community Housing and Outreach Services (ECHOS) helped him with housing, and since then, he’s wanted to get involved. “It feels good to be able to pay it back and help the community,” James said. James has been involved with ECHOS for more than a year and now proudly serves on the board of directors. He also serves as chair for the organization’s programs committee. “We have a winter shelter for people who are homeless, and we also provide traditional housing for individuals or case management for those going through crisis,” James said. “It was an honor to be offered a position on the board.” James said he finds the work within his position very fulfilling because he’s helped people with experiences he’s “witnessed first-hand.” His previous struggles inspire him to stay motivated in whatever he decides to take on. Masonic Village also inspires him to give back because he believes the organization is “deeply rooted in taking care of the community.” The Masonic Village Outreach program exemplified this for him personally, since along with ECHOS, it assisted him after he moved to the area. “ECHOS is the epitome of helping the community, and I think Masonic Village relates to that. Helping the community in whatever way they can is something they’ve always strived for,” James said.
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Summer 2021 Issue
James Harkness
One way Masonic Village is helping James again is by providing a mentorship program that will strengthen his management skills and lead him to achieve some of his long-term goals. These goals include securing a management position at Masonic Village and investing in and flipping real estate in the area, another way he hopes to make an impact in the community. James started the mentorship in June and looks forward to learning more about leadership in the food service industry. He’s also busy studying business at Harrisburg Area Community College. James plans to use his college education and the mentorship program to further his career at Masonic Village when the opportunity presents itself. “I used to be a small-business owner before I moved up here, so one of my passions has always been helping unemployed people and creating jobs,” James said. “Business is something I love to do, and I plan on committing myself to that and to Masonic Village.” Above all, James will continue his passion of serving the community.
“You just go to bed with a smile knowing that you really helped someone,” he said. “I hope, as someone younger, I inspire others to get involved and understand that [those of any age] can help people.” James’ co-worker, Travis, also understands the importance of getting involved, as he volunteers with the nonprofit organization, Sprout of Hope. Sprout of Hope grows produce to donate to the Covenant House, which is a youth homeless shelter located in York. Travis spends time harvesting produce and pulling weeds for the cause when he isn’t cooking at Masonic Village. Last year, he wasn’t able to spend as much time with the organization because of the pandemic, but right now, he is volunteering during evenings and weekends. He has been a part of the organization for several years and has earned a seat on the board. Travis said the organization strives “to bring awareness to organic produce” and to “make more of a connection between the community and where their food comes from.”
“It’s important work. When we drop off produce at the shelters, to see the kids actually excited about it … it’s incredible,” Travis said. “I’ve learned the power that an individual has to change the status of things.”
Travis Markel
Travis feels strongly about Sprout of Hope because it brings together his passions for the environment, ecology and food.
“It’s spiritually rewarding because everyone needs to eat, and I’m helping someone live every day by providing food,” Travis said. “I see the appreciation here. I know daily that I’m making an impact on the residents’ lives.”
“I don’t think we have a functioning food system in the United States. There are a lot of areas where we can grow, and my goal is to help with that,” Travis said.
He said another unexpected benefit to the job is the peaceful environment, compared to working in a traditional restaurant.
Travis’ passion for food is rooted in his Masonic Village experience, as well as previous experiences in the food industry. He was a sous chef at a fine dining restaurant for 10 years and worked at a deli for six.
Travis hopes to explore more opportunities at Masonic Village and grow as a cook and a person. He also has no plans to stop his community involvement anytime soon. Rather, he encourages everyone to get involved with the community.
“I like to make things I’m not familiar with, so it becomes like a research project for me,” Travis said. “I like to get really immersed in something that’s foreign to me, and then figure out how it all goes together.” When he cooks for himself, Travis enjoys making a variety of dishes, including homemade pasta, ethnic cuisine and soul food. However, his favorites are the ones he makes for the residents.
“Change isn’t evident until you do it, and you see the impact that you have,” Travis said. “You can make a difference. Even the smallest thing you can do makes a difference.” By Katy Shero, public relations associate/intern
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The Legacy of Walp’s Restaurant Resident Frank Nikischer Sr. knows a thing or two about the food industry. Or a few thousand things. Recipes, that is, and how to own and operate a successful, large scale restaurant. Born in Allentown, PA, Frank began working as a bus boy at age 16 at a local, beloved Pennsylvania Dutch restaurant, Walp’s. He got the job through his sister, Terry, who was married to Donald Walp, the son of the original owners of Walp’s, Robert and Blanche. Frank kept his dedication to Walp’s as he attended Penn State University. He worked at the restaurant whenever he was home from college and even got a degree in hotel and restaurant management in 1953. After he graduated college, he served as a commissioned officer in the Navy for three years. When he was discharged, he worked again at Walp’s full-time. He also continued his service in the U.S. Naval Reserves, retiring in 1976 with the rank of Lieutenant Commander. Frank worked at the restaurant as it flourished and ownership was turned over to Donald and his sister, Thelma. In the meantime, Frank met his wife, Judy, a Cedar Crest College graduate who would eventually become part owner of the business.
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Summer 2021 Issue
In 1986, Donald and Thelma sold Walp’s to Frank and Judy, and they ran it until 1999. Frank said the restaurant had grown so much from when it originally opened in 1936, and he and Judy were grateful for contributing to that growth. Three of Frank’s children, Frank Jr., David and Wendy, also contributed to the restaurant’s growth, serving as Walp’s managers. “It started out with just two booths, a coffee counter, a juke box and a gas pump. Before it closed 62 years later, it had a total of 500 seats and 80 employees,” Frank said. Walp’s included a 12-room guest house, banquet rooms with seating for 250 people and a bake shop. The restaurant had to expand, Frank said, to accommodate its “very loyal following” of hungry and “devoted” customers. “Philly, New Jersey, New York … people were coming from all over,” Frank said. “We had lots of local regulars, too. They would come in for breakfast, lunch and dinner and sit
at the coffee counters. If a stranger came in to sit, the regulars would say, ‘Don’t sit there, that’s Bill’s stool, and he’ll be here soon!’ because that’s how familiar they were with each other.” Frank said one time he even had a family drive hours through snow to eat at Walp’s, and though Walp’s had closed earlier that day due to the weather, Frank invited them in and personally served them dinner when they arrived. He, Judy and their employees always strived to make every customer satisfied because they loved Walp’s just as much as their customers did. “Our employees were so dedicated, and we were like one big family,” Frank said. “What amazes me is that I can count the small number of employees who didn’t show up for work on holidays in all the time I’d been there.” There were also many celebrities who stopped in for a meal at Walp’s: The Monkees, The Dorsey Brothers, “The Munsters” actor Al Lewis, singer Robert Goulet and others.
They lived in the Poconos and Florida for a while, too, before moving to Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Frank and Judy have six children between them who reside all over the country. Frank and his son, Frank Jr., spent 27 years judging food at the Allentown Fair. From all of Frank’s food experiences, he said he’s learned a lot.
A painting of Walp’s Restaurant, which was located on the corner of Union Boulevard and Airport Road in Allentown. Frank is depicted in the lower left corner, visiting with customers at the bar.
No matter the occasion, customers were never in short supply at Walp’s, and neither was the joyful energy. “It was all just a wonderful experience,” Judy said. “The place was so well-known and loved that it meant a lot to me to have my name be a part of it.” Frank carried that same pride in owning the restaurant, and it showed through the quality of food Walp’s served. “We purchased seafood fresh out of the water from a top Boston seafood house and had it flown in weekly, and we got produce from our local farms,” Frank said. “Everything had to be as fresh as possible.” Walp’s offered a variety of foods, from meats and entrées that employees processed themselves, to wedding and birthday cakes, appetizers and desserts. Thanks to Frank, most of what Walp’s served lives on. Two years before the restaurant closed, Frank decided to write a cookbook to “preserve the
recipes our customers loved.” Over 12,000 cookbooks were printed that contained recipes which had never been published before. Frank and Judy agree Pennsylvania Dutch food is so enjoyable because it’s “plain cooking and healthy.”
“Any recipe in our cookbook would be my favorite,” Judy said. As Frank finished the cookbook, Frank and Judy prepared to sell Walp’s. It was in a prime location and high traffic area, so they were able to sell it to Wawa in 1999. They received a generous offer and decided to accept it because they were ready to retire. “We hated to give it up, but chose to sell it and enjoy retirement,” Frank said. Frank and Judy spent the next few years pursuing another one of their passions: traveling. They’ve traveled to South America; Panama Canal; various European countries, including Italy, Russia and Austria; Canada; and all throughout the United States.
“As the owner of a restaurant, you have to be a first-aid provider, a financial advisor and a psychologist, in addition to being a food expert. You have to know how to handle any situation,” Frank said. “It’s a 24-hours-a-day, 7-days-a-week job, and you must be familiar with every employee’s job.” Frank still uses what he’s learned to add his “personal touches” to the meals at Masonic Village with his own favorite seasonings. He and Judy also enjoy collecting. Frank has been recording old movies onto DVDs since 1983 and currently owns over 1,200 movies. He also collects Penn State sports memorabilia. Judy loves collecting antiques and has a large collection of Chinese cloisonné. The Walp’s legacy has even followed Frank to Masonic Village. Frank said that many of the residents are familiar with the restaurant and often like to talk about it with him. “Judy, three of our children and I have the satisfaction of having served good food to all those people who loved and appreciated it,” Frank said. “People still remember. It’s been over 20 years now since we closed our doors, but they haven’t forgotten.” By Katy Shero, public relations associate/intern
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Community Impact Report As a not-for-profit organization, and as part of our Mission of Love, Masonic Villages extends services to surrounding communities and individuals of all ages. While many efforts were placed on hold or modified in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, staff and residents were still able to impact neighbors and local organizations through donations of time, money and expertise, as well as items such as fresh produce and knit hats. The Masonic Villages proudly provided $34.6 million of charitable care and services across Pennsylvania in 2020. This amount consists of approximately $9.9 million (at cost) of free care and services and $24.7 million (at cost) for care and services above the amount reimbursed by Medicare, Medicaid and other third party payers. In addition, Masonic Villages provided more than $410,532 in scholarships, donations to local emergency services providers, internships and community assistance to our neighbors in Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill, Sewickley and Warminster. Community Engagement and Support Masonic Villages works with other organizations to help fulfill needs in the community, some of which also benefit our residents. Many of our programs with local schools and organizations in need of meeting space were postponed in 2020, and we look forward to re-engaging safely with these groups soon. To benefit Elizabethtown Community Housing and Outreach Services (ECHOS), which runs a winter shelter 20
Summer 2021 Issue
Elizabethtown resident Nancy Balmer, shown with Pastor Preston Van Deursen, director of spirtiual care, knitted 70 hats, which she donated to Sell Chapel’s Outreach program. The hats were shared with the Christmas Shop, run through the Elizabethtown Brethren in Christ Church and ECHOS.
at St. Paul’s Methodist Church for those with emergency living needs, Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s environmental services department washed 3,475 pounds of sheets, blankets, comforters and towels free of charge, donating staff time valued at approximately $2,015. In early 2020, eight fourth grade classes, or about 120 students, from Milton Hershey School worked with six Masonic Village at Elizabethtown residents on a project using a process called “design thinking” to create assistive devices that older adults may find useful. The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted the project, and both groups look forward to connecting on future projects. Business and Economic Support As a not-for-profit organization, Masonic Villages is not required
to pay real estate taxes; however, we value municipalities’ services and understand their plights, as costs impact local taxes. Through Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreements signed in Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill and Sewickley, we paid $2,232,396 to local boroughs, townships, counties and school districts in 2020. Supporting the local economy is also a priority. Through contracts with 356 businesses in the Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill and Sewickley areas, Masonic Villages purchased approximately $4.86 million of products and services. Masonic Village at Elizabethtown was named a 2020 Exceptional Business Partner for supporting Goodwill Keystone Area’s mission. Through Goodwill’s employment services, environmental services staff spent
more than 250 hours training Rebecca Shultz (shown in top right photo), who is now employed full-time with Masonic Village as an environmental services worker. Masonic Village at Elizabethtown and Penn State University established a mutually beneficial partnership in 2018 which allows students to gain practical experience and complete academic requirements, while working to advance Masonic Village initiatives, such as sustainability and improved use of technology. In 2020, these initiatives included a hydroponic garden planter, which is easier to manage than a regular garden, and a strength augmenter for lifting. Donations Masonic Villages seeks ways to support other charitable organizations whenever possible. We contributed more than $33,100 to fire and EMS companies, libraries and other causes in 2020. The Masonic Village Farm Market donated more than 100 pounds of food weekly to the Community Cupboard of Elizabethtown, East Donegal-Conoy Food Bank and the Elizabethtown First Church of God meal program. Masonic Village Hospice raised more than $11,584 for the 2020 Relay for Life of Lancaster, benefiting the American Cancer Society. We contributed $15,000 to the Elizabethtown Area Education Foundation to help generate support for the foundation’s grant program to enhance learning experiences in the classroom and beyond. At Masonic Villages’ Elizabethtown and Sewickley locations, we awarded $15,000 in scholarships to six graduating high school seniors and college students who volunteered at least 100 hours with us during their high school years. Educational Opportunities Masonic Villages is proud to work with local schools and universities to welcome students seeking internships and job shadow experiences to help enhance their formal education. In 2020, some of these opportunities were accomplished online, while others were postponed until we can invite students back safely. Across the state, interns joined us in the public relations department and in administration. In clinical settings, including the pharmacy, music therapy, therapeutic recreation, social services, hospice and environmental services departments, staff supervised
more than 110 students for an estimated 12,916 hours – time valued at approximately $63,207. Based on national community benefits reporting standards, 20% of staff time overseeing students in a clinical setting may be quantified as a community benefit. For several years, Masonic Village at Elizabethtown has teamed up with Lancaster-Lebanon Intermediate Unit 13 to offer students internships and real world job experiences in environmental services and other fields. We hosted 15 students in 2020 (shown in bottom photo above). Read more about the program on p. 4. Paige MacConnell is working toward an integrated Bachelor of Science in Health Policy and Administration and Master of Health Administration at Penn State University. She completed her internship last summer with Noah Davis, executive director of Masonic Village at Dallas. “Although this was primarily a virtual internship, Mr. Davis tried to expose me to as much as he could and made it a valuable, worthwhile experience. I have gained a much better understanding of this side of healthcare, specifically independent living. Completing this internship during a MasonicVillages.org
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Masonic Village at Dallas residents participated in an Adopt a Road project to help clean up nearby Country Club Road and volunteered at the Back Mountain Food Pantry, along with donating nonperishable goods and $4,006 to support its mission. They also contributed $500 and pet supplies to Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge, a zero-kill organization, located in Dallas.
Youth at the Masonic Children’s Home enjoy an ice cream party.
pandemic was a learning experience in itself, and I was able to observe how Masonic Village adapted to those changes. I believe the skills and knowledge I gained will definitely help me down the road in my future endeavors. Everyone worked together as a team, and the focus was always put on the residents. I am very fortunate to have had this experience with such a devoted team of caring individuals.” Outreach and Home Assistance Funded through generous contributions, the Masonic Children’s Home in Elizabethtown does not charge individuals, organizations, or the state or federal government for its services. It provides a home for up to 40 youth who are being raised by aging grandparents or who come from various social or economic environments which do not provide necessary security and support. Children do not need to have a Masonic affiliation in their family to be eligible for services. In 2020, the Elizabethtown Area School District received $404,953 through reciprocity agreements with the school districts from which the children come to us. Masonic Village’s Outreach Program distributed $21,412 in home assistance support to individuals and families. The program also operates a Durable Medical Loan Equipment Closet, which provides equipment to families on a short-term basis at no cost. We supplied wheelchairs, walkers, canes, shower chairs and other equipment to 15 individuals in 2020. Resident Contributions Last year, residents contributed to service projects that benefited children, students, older adults, emergency service providers and those with food and housing insecurities.
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A dozen members of Masonic Village at Sewickley’s PLARN (plastic yarn) group knit plastic mats for the New Life Community Church in Pittsburgh, which donates them to homeless individuals. A group of residents also knit blankets, robes and hats for Project Linus, a national nonprofit organization which donates blankets to children in hospitals, including Shriners Hospitals for Children; shelters; social service agencies; or anywhere a need arises. They donated 124 blankets and 71 quilts in 2020. The Craft Group at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown donated proceeds from sales of their homemade items to numerous Masonic and community charities, including $2,000 each to Northwest EMS and Friendship Fire & Hose Co. The Grey Lions of Elizabethtown, Masonic Village’s Penn State alumni interest group, awarded $1,000 scholarships in 2020 to five deserving Penn State students. Residents of the Bleiler Caring Cottage participated in community service projects, including collecting food for ECHOS and Community Cupboard of Elizabethtown and cleaning up trash at the Elizabethtown Train Station and/ or Wolgemuth Community Park bi-monthly. They also participated in Share-A-Card, providing 600 Christmas cards for terminally ill individuals across the country. Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s Garden Club sponsored a “Victory Garden” initiative in which garden volunteers planted produce in all available gardens to donate to campus restaurants, residents (including the Masonic Children’s Home and Bleiler Caring Cottage), staff and the Community Cupboard of Elizabethtown. Thanks to donations from residents, the Retirement Living Residents’ Association also presented $12,170 to the Community Cupboard to support their mission. Sell Chapel provided $5,000 to the First Church of God of Elizabethtown in April for its food pantry’s bagged lunches. View our full Community Report online at www.masonicvillages.org/about/community-report/.
Generous Stories and Steps
Harry Kirchhoff has left a mark wherever he goes, especially across Masonic groups and charities. As he approaches his 70th year as a Mason, he continues to support a fraternity that has given him so much. Following his wedding, his wife suggested he take some of the money they received as gifts and join the Masonic lodge. In 1951, he petitioned Frankford Lodge No. 292, Philadelphia. (After his first wife passed away, and he married Dolores, he petitioned Warren Lodge No. 310, in Collegeville, which was closer to her home.) “I never regretted it,” Harry said. “There’s good harmony in the lodge. I enjoy the fellowship and look forward to the meetings. The way they want you to be – helpful, etc., – it rubs off on you.” Harry’s career with Ford Motors included fixing telephone systems and merging systems together, so people could direct inward dial and eliminate the need for switchboards. The job had him traveling across the country and prevented him from serving as a lodge officer, but he took part in as many Masonic activities as he could. He was actively involved in the Children’s Identification Program (CHIP), through which he fingerprinted and interviewed children across the country to provide
parents with information to give law enforcement and recovery officials in the event their child went missing. Harry also volunteered as a transportation driver for Shriners Hospitals for Children. “When you see them [kids] smile when they’re coming home, that’s the reward,” Harry said. He was active in DeMolay, serving as chapter advisor of the Northeast Chapter and as Master Councilor. For his efforts, he earned the DeMolay Degree of Chevalier, Legion of Honor and Cross of Honor. A few years after Harry’s first wife passed away, he reconnected with Dolores, the widow of a friend who Harry knew through DeMolay. He and Dolores wed, and a couple of years later, she suggested they move to Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Dolores had visited friends at Masonic Village frequently and knew it was “the best place to finish up your years.” Harry has taken full advantage of the campus’ wellness options, swimming frequently and walking 10,000 steps every day at the Baird Wellness Center. He also appreciates that the dining servers grow to know what each resident does and doesn’t like. MasonicVillages.org
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His Masonic experience has served him well as he reunites with friends who are now neighbors. Harry’s neighbor across the street was in DeMolay with him. “It’s a small Masonic world. I always know somebody because of Freemasonry,” Harry said. “I’m known for eating and talking.” “Harry knows more stories than anyone I know,” Dolores added. “This place [Masonic Village] means a lot,” Harry said. “I want to help maintain it. The most important thing is this place will keep caring for Dolores after I go.” “A lot of people come here with nothing,” Dolores said. “You couldn’t pick them out from those who are wealthy. We’re all family. Everyone is so well taken care of. That’s so important.” Harry knew he wanted to support Masonic Villages’ Compassionate Care Fund for health care residents whose assets have been depleted. He was born during the Great Depression, and he knows times can get tough. He contacted David Whitenack, director of gift planning, for a solution. David suggested a Qualified Charitable Distribution (learn more about this option below). “David found a way to help me,” Harry said. “He was very nice, social and caring.” Harry gives of himself because of what he’s gained through Freemasonry.
“There’s something about Masonry – it’s something you can’t put in words,” Harry said. “You put more in it monetarily than you get out of it, but money isn’t everything. What you do to help people is more important.”
What is a Qualified Charitable Distribution? If you are older than age 70½ and have a traditional IRA, hands down, a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) is the number one way to give to the Masonic Villages. You avoid tax on any amount given from your IRA to charity, which is like getting a free tax deduction. Yes, it’s more complicated than writing a check, but once you do, you will never look back. Please contact the Office of Mission Advancement and Development (formerly the Office of Gift Planning) for a FREE QCD Kit, and then talk to your advisor about dividing up your QCD among your favorite charities, including the Masonic Villages. Remember, if you don’t need your Required Minimum Distribution, then turning it into a QCD is an added benefit. We can help you create a QCD to achieve your goals while supporting Masonic Villages’ mission. Please contact us using the enclosed business reply envelope, by calling 1-800-599-6454 or by visiting our website www.MasonicCharitiesLegacy.org for more information. Everything we do for you comes with no cost or obligation.
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Summer 2021 Issue
Thanks to Our Donors Memorial Gifts The following memorial gifts were made Feb. 1 - April 30, 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. Howard Asher Hackenburg-Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 019 Charles T. Babbitt Houseman Lodge No. 211 Earl and Frances Baringer Paul and Susie Baringer Robert F. Baughman, Sr. Christiana Lodge No. 417 Paul E. Beane, Jr. Christiana Lodge No. 417 Howard A. Beiseigel John Beiseigel Anna Ellen Boyd Karen and Rick Redman Martin Brown Fredlyn Brown William A. Brown James and Jane Brown Olin and Gladys Brubaker Karl Buus Albert M. Buckley Doric Lodge No. 630 Edward Budman Oscar and Angila Smith Charles Henry Burkholder Renee Connor Penn Medicine Lancaster General Hospital Pamela Pyle Bernadine Campbell Daniel Conner Charles and Carol Curry Robert W. Carey Lake Lodge No. 434 Philip Chamberlin Alice Chamberlin Nona Chern Gary and Katherine Portnoy Shake Chilingerian Raffy and Stephanie Chilingerian Howard Clark James and Carole Clark John Clarke Andrew and Doris Zelez John H. Clymer David Clymer John A. Coburn, Jr. Darlene Coburn Dixie Lee Corwin Richard Corwin Dorothy E. Davis George Rendell Jason L. Dean Richard L. Dean David DeLong Eugene and Dawn DeLong Fred and Jean Dent Richard and Cheryl Simpson Lucille Dowell Ronald Dowell Thomas E. Dowell Ronald Dowell Gary Downey Lake Lodge No. 434 Wayne L. Drobish Houseman Lodge No. 211 Jack R. Eshenour Catherine Eshenour Glen Eshleman Kim and Mike English William M. L. Etter David and Louisa Etter Yvonne Fafata Robert Fafata Evelyn Fisher William Hall Abraham Flitter Hackenburg-Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 019
Barbara L. Frantz Robert Frantz William R. Frantz, Sr. Franklin St. John’s Trinity Lodge No. 221 Helen Fultz Craig Fultz Adrienne Garafola Marilyn Wick Norman F. Gniewek Richard Anderson Rochelle Aurand Patricia Griffith Melanie Moyer Brian Niebuhr Darlene Niebuhr Emily and Dave Spiker Martin and Doris Gotsch Carin Bruton William Gottschalk James Heckman Mr. and Mrs. Allen Henkin Donald Grier Barbara Jachna William R. Hagmeier Southampton Square Club Jane Harner Ann Harris Felix I. Harper Richard and Gail Scott-Harper Joel and Diane Harrar James and Ann Harrar Ruth H. Hasenauer Mary Jane Keim Richard Hays The Gerald Groves Family Ken Hillman Lake Lodge No. 434 Jerome and Kathryn Hitz Paul Thompson Fred C. Hodge Franklin St. John’s Trinity Lodge No. 221 Beverly Holliday Doris Longenecker Daniel A. Homa Franklin St. John’s Trinity Lodge No. 221 David E. Hughes III Helen Hughes Rudy Hummel Joan Hummel Frederick “Bud” Hummler, Jr. Robert and Jean Hailstone Alan Hummler Margaret Hummler Nanci Bicking Friends at AEHF Alan Hummler Lisa Hummler David and Lee Hunsberger James and Becky Lafreeda Stephen Kanoff Michael Beidleman Lana L. Karl Harold and Jill Bucks Alvin and Iris Goodman Masonic Village Travel Club Alan A. Karr Beverly Bowman
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Marian Kauffman Todd and Deborah Hillard David Kaufman Eugene and Dawn DeLong David E. Keesey Barry and Lynn Totten Adrienne J. Keiser Larry Keiser Deborah “Debbie” Kennedy Gifford and Virginia Biles Jacquelin Crum Terry Dennison Mary McCleary Thelma and Francis Kinter Robert and Kimberly Rose Earl and Mae Kline Eugene and Anna Kline Mary Knight C. J. and Kathy Knight Bob and Joanna Kohl Robert and Mary Zacharias Robert Lee “Shorty” Koser Lowther Manor Lodge No. 781 Paul Kozlowsky Kathleen Kozlowsky Charles and Rita Ledig Al Ledig Doris Leeper Robert Wilson John H. and Irma B. Lewis John and Carolyn Lewis David Littman Hackenburg-Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 019 Anna and George Lubic Rita Vorkapich Elaine and Art Lukens Arthur Lukens George Lutz Frances Maivelett John T. Lutz Mahlon and Christine Fuller Doris Luznar Eric Luznar John P. Majeski, Sr. Franklin St. John’s Trinity Lodge No. 221 Audrey J. McBride Lisa McBride William E. McClearn Lake Lodge No. 434 Byron O. McCollum Hanna McCollum Mary Jane McElheny Thomas and Terry Kamerzel Paul E. Meyers Donald Meyers Robert K. Miller Houseman Lodge No. 211 Arden L. Moyer Charles and Beverley Moyer William Mullan Jane Cullen Mona Murray John and Susan Stull Elwood “Woody” Myers Betty Lou Stoner John J. Nanartowicz, Jr. Erika Nanartowicz James C. Nickle Terry Kamerzel Thomas and Terry Kamerzel Donald Nock Nancy Nock George K. Pallis Franklin St. John’s Trinity Lodge No. 221 John J. Petrolias Franklin St. John’s Trinity Lodge No. 221 John C. Price James Horn Shentel Management Company Barbara Thompson Josephine Pusateri Joseph Pusateri Jack Rankin Charles and Carol Curry Elizabethtown Masonic Village Shrine Club
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Grace Redner Masonic Village at Dallas Residents’ Association Noreen Reimund Friendship Chapter No. 551, O.E.S. Thomas D. Richards Pearl Montgomery Clarence and Grace Richwine Robert Richwine Robert Rineer Dorothy Barr Mildred Bechtold Arline Rochkind Bruce and Joan Howarth Prudence Mann Charles E. Rose Donna Rose Kenneth Ross Hackenburg-Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 019 Ruth Rubin Ira Cooperman Billie J. Savickas John Savickas Paul and Evelyn Saylor Paul Saylor, Jr. Otto G. Schmidt Frank Johnson Kenneth A. Seamans Kay Seamans Harriet Senkinc Sue Batt Pricilla and Edith Bernard Paul and Cheryl Skiviat Dolores F. Shott Thomas Shott Donald A. Smith Barbara Smith Roland J. Snyder Al Jochen Ruth Sperry Joan and Kenneth Fawcett James F. Standish, Jr. Nancy Standish Richard and Ethel Stannard Richard and Nancy Stannard James Robert Stewart Joan Stewart Roger Stock McKinley Stuckrath Lodge No. 318 Nancy Marie (Hitz) Thompson Paul Thompson Sudheer J. “Sud” Tiwari Stefania Tiwari Charles and Inez Twesten Judith and Charles Rehm Royden Tyger Joel Hersh and Cynthia Tyger Edward Weisser Ken and Elaine Bleiler Tom Wescott Lake Lodge No. 434 Martha B. White Deborah and Alvin Hershey Carol White Rose H. Wible Donald and Sandra Kunz Margaret A. Wightman David and Diane Brownold Pat Haas William and Sandra Jones Pat McGuire Eileen Ann Newill Barbara Wightman-Freeman Richard A. Wirth Joan Wirth Judith Wollenhaupt Erika Wollenhaupt John Ziegler Richard and JoAnn Keller Marion A. Zimmerman Larry Leese and Sue Kenny
Honorarium Gifts The following honorarium gifts were made Feb. 1 - April 30, 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. All Staff on Ben Franklin 2 Ethel Eshleman Frank Flaim Juanita M. Keesey Sally Law George B. Lohr
Erika Wollenhaupt Kim and Mike English Danielle Wenzel Barry and Lynn Totten Sally E. Law Charitable Fund Jake Lohr
David J. and Mildred J. Lutz Jim and Nancy Lutz Gregg D. McBride, Jr. Lisa McBride Bob Murray John and Susan Stull Stephanye Smith Heath and Holly Mackley Preston Van Deursen Lisa Hummler Roger and Susan Wheeler Christopher and Nancy Hartinger
Masonic Villages’ Wish List Thank you to the following donors (Feb. 1 to April 30, 2021): Masonic Children’s Home
James J. and Virginia McCall
Wayne M. and Nancylee Garafola
Michael B. and Maria C. McKee
Ronald A. and Judy A. McKnight
Harold L. Pomraning
Thomas J. and Linda Schmidt
Maynard E. and Edna M. Rosenberry
Washington Lodge No. 156
Marilyn E. Sheldon Mark A. and Judith R. Townsend
Masonic Village at Elizabethtown
Washington Lodge No. 156
Anonymous
James T. and Bette K. Wenrich
Gaile M. Achey Charles H. and Bernadine C. Armstrong
Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill
Robert J. and Patsy A. Bowman
Anonymous
Sarah E. Burkholder Chandler Lodge No. 227
Masonic Village at Sewickley
Doris E. Dunkelberger
Anonymous
Claude L. Foreman
Isabel Carmen Moore
Bruce E. and Ethel Joan Howarth Susan K. Joines
Masonic Village at Warminster
David K. and Judith P. Kurtz
Lodge No. 009
Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Residents’ Association
We wish to thank our current and past supporters of the Masonic Villages’ Wish List. Earlier this year, the decision was made to no longer promote specific items needed by Masonic Villages. However, you can still earmark your gift for a restricted purpose. As needs arise for our residents, staff will have access to your gifts for these purposes.
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.
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MASONIC VILLAGES One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022-2219
Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill Masonic Village at Sewickley
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.
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