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Winter 2020 Vol. 30, No. 1
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The Masonic Villages include locations in Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill, Sewickley and Warminster. Submissions for the spring issue of the Village Voice are due March 11. 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. The Masonic Villages is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Admissions to the Masonic Villages are approved or disapproved primarily on the basis of need. 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.
Inside this Issue 3 Meet the New Grand Master 4 The Kindness Gene 5 A Step in a New Direction 6 A Cut Above 8 A Recipe for Success 20 All the Right Moves 22 Changes Are Coming to Your IRA 23 Masonic Villages Wish List 24 Memorial Gifts 27 Honorarium Gifts
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COVER STORIES Educating and Inspiring 11 For the Love of Children 12 A Worldwide Influencer 15 Continuing a Life’s Passion 16 Reaching Her Students 18 A Pattern of Love, Devotion and Generosity On the cover: Resident Mim Bizic (see her story on p. 12).
meet the new
Grand Master THOMAS GAMON, IV, WAS INSTALLED as the 122nd R.W. Grand Master of Pennsylvania on Dec. 27, 2019.
Mr. Gamon became a Mason in 1991 and is a Past Master of Perkiomen Lodge No. 595, Red Hill, and served as District Deputy Grand Master for District 40, 2002-2010. He has served as a Representative in Grand Lodge and an Aide to the Grand Master from 2012-2013, as a member of the Masonic Education Committee from 2010-2011 and on the Masonic Villages board of directors since 2013. He graduated from Perkiomen Valley High School, earned an associate’s degree in criminology from Montgomery County Community College and completed his Pennsylvania state apprenticeship in the electrical field. After working as an electrician for 10 years, he founded Gamon Electric, Inc., a fullservice electrical contracting firm for which he serves as president. He has earned several professional certifications and licenses and is an assistant code inspector for Lower Frederick Township. A member of Montgomery County Fire Chief’s Association, Mr. Gamon has served his community in various capacities. Having joined Lower Frederick Fire Company in 1976, he served as fire chief from 1984-2002 and from June 2012-present, as well
as battalion chief from 2010-2012. He has served as a PA State Police assistant fire marshal since 1984, as fire marshal for Lower Frederick Township since 2000 and is a past president of Red Knights Motorcycle Club Chapter #5. He has taught vertical rescue at many locations. A member of Boy Scouts of America Troop 105, Schwenksville, Mr. Gamon is an Order of the Arrow member and served as committee chairman for Troop 87 from 1994-1996. He served as president for Good Fellowship Country Club from 20082009 and has served as secretary since 2010. He also served on the board of directors for the Children’s Dyslexia Center in Reading. Mr. Gamon and his wife, Cheryl, live in Schwenksville and are members of Jerusalem Lutheran Church. They are the proud parents of Thomas, V, and Danielle, and the proud grandparents of Shelby Elizabeth and Thomas, VI. Mr. Gamon’s favorite pastimes include hunting, fishing and motorcycle riding. Cheryl enjoys sewing, reading and selling fresh produce at her stand. Together, they enjoy antiquing and spending time at their hunting cabin.
Masonic Villages' Board of Directors Masonic Villages' board of directors consists of 13 members, including the Officers of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. This group meets quarterly, and members serve on various committees, including Admissions, Home Assistance and Resident Services; Building and Grounds; Financial and Gift Planning; and Human Resources. Serving on the board of directors are Thomas Gamon, IV, R.W. Grand Master; Jeffrey M. Wonderling, R.W. Deputy Grand Master; Larry A. Derr, R.W. Senior Grand Warden; Robert D. Brink, R.W. Junior Grand Warden; Adam C. Heese, R.W. Grand Treasurer; and Mark A. Haines, R.W. Grand Secretary, as well as David L. Reiner, Bruce A. Robinson, Kevin C. McCann, Kim W. Jeffreys, John F. Pyer, Jr., Robert C. Snyder, II and Frederic C. Wheeler, IV. Through their vision, the Masonic Villages makes decisions on growth and change which best fulfill our Mission of Love and serve individuals in our care.
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the kindness gene WHEN MARY ANN “MIMI” JOHNSON SAW LITTER piling up along the road to her home at the Masonic Village at Dallas, she did more than just pick it up. She officially adopted the road and organized a group of volunteers to clean it up several times a year. After talking with Noah Davis, Masonic Village at Dallas executive director (shown with Mimi in photo), she took the initiative to contact PennDOT and file the proper paperwork to “adopt” the highway. She coordinates volunteers’ efforts throughout the year. This effort, and the many other ways she gives her time to improving her community, earned her Masonic Village at Dallas’ first-ever Volunteer of the Year recognition in 2019. When she moved to Masonic Village in 2012, Mimi jumped right into any opportunity to help her neighbors. This included driving residents to appointments, to run errands and to special events like concerts and baseball games. On snowy mornings, you could find her cleaning off cars for those she knew wouldn’t be able to do it themselves. “Our community is made of singles and couples, younger and older, physically-abled and some notso-much,” she said. “Helping to make their lives more easy and fun is a big part of my makeup.” After attending one meeting of the Resident Association, she volunteered to join the board. Among her contributions to the group has been starting a wish list of “extra” things residents wanted for the campus. She has also been involved in the Social Committee and helped to organize trips. Beyond Masonic Village, Mimi is a senior peer counselor with Luzerne County. She visits with older adults who may be confined to their homes, spending time reading, talking and keeping them company.
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“Our community is made of singles and couples, younger and older, physically-abled and some not-so-much,” she said. “Helping to make their lives more easy and fun is a big part of my makeup.” She also serves on the board of Equines for Freedom, an organization which uses horses to provide therapy for veterans and first responders to help with posttraumatic stress. The services are free for clients, and Mimi and her sister have held a fundraiser to support the organization for the last four years, with the next one scheduled for August. It’s a cause close to their hearts. They volunteer in memory of their brother, Bill Johnson, who served in Vietnam and died as a result of complications from being sprayed with Agent Orange. Mimi’s mother also resides at Masonic Village at Dallas and was the main reason for Mimi’s move. Her mother needs more daily assistance now, so Mimi has put some of her volunteer responsibilities on hold. As much as Mimi gives of herself to volunteering, she has gained a lot, as well. “It is always wonderful to meet and make new friends,” she said, “and that is the best part of living at Masonic Village.”
A step in a
New Direction IT’S NO SECRET that health and wellness should be a priority in everyone’s life. Nor is it a surprise that the more convenient it is to exercise and live healthy, the more likely people are to participate in opportunities. Adding to the wellness repertoire at Masonic Village at Dallas, CIP Rehabilitation now offers services on-site in the Irem Clubhouse, including physical, occupational, speech and massage therapy and a Senior Fit Club. Outpatient rehabilitation services can assist after a hospitalization for an illness, injury or surgery, such as a hip or knee replacement. They can address pain management; generalized muscle weakness; arthritis management; a decrease in cognition or swallowing; poor aerobic conditioning related to hypertension, heart failure or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; and neurological conditions including Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis and dementia. Rehabilitation is also ideal for strengthening and conditioning. Therapists can provide balance and coordination training, gait and ambulation training, and body mechanics and postural training, as well as recommendations for home or activity modifications and the use of durable medical equipment. The Senior Fit Club meets every Wednesday and features chair and floor exercises that test an individual’s balance, including walking on dots and stepping over objects. Each exercise is repeated, and instructors encourage participants to work harder than they would if exercising independently. “They push you a lot harder,” resident Bob Boone said. “There are some days I go home, and I know I used muscles I don’t normally use.” “It’s important to keep everything moving,” resident Barbara Boone said. “You can’t sit in a chair and say, ‘I’m retired. I’m getting old.’ Then everything stops working. You have to keep moving. It helps when you come, and it’s fun to be with other people. It gives you some incentive. I wouldn’t exercise at home alone. I should, but I don’t.”
Started by brothers Anthony and Rich Cipoletti, CIP Rehabilitation offers services for Masonic Village residents and the greater community at their Irem Clubhouse location. “Our primary focuses are health, wellness, mental and physical well-being and really getting people up and moving,” Rich said. “From a therapeutic standpoint, we address if they have pain, weaknesses, decreased range of motion, balance issues or any other deficits,” Rich said. “The ultimate goal is to reduce hospitalizations and improve daily function to promote better quality of life,” Anthony said. “We’re always exploring ways to expand options for our residents,” Noah Davis, executive director, said. “Our goal is to offer convenient opportunities for them to be as active and engaged as they want.”
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A Cut Above
BETH WALSH, LAURA HEVENER, BARBARA OSBORNE AND PAM FREYERMUTH have been beautifying the residents at Masonic Villages for a combined nearly 70 years. “I like the atmosphere, and Beth is really good and patient,” said Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill resident Jean C. Frishmuth, who visits Beth Walsh at the full-service salon once a week to get a blow dry or a haircut. “Everyone who leaves looks wonderful. If you look better, you feel better.” Resident Catherine Wentz agreed. “It makes you feel attractive, but it also gives you time to relax and socialize with others,” she said. Beth has worked full-time at the salon for 32 years, both in personal care and retirement living. The retirement living salon’s only stylist, her schedule fills up quickly, and she keeps her appointments in a large date book on her desk. The residents enjoy visiting the salon, whether it be for the social aspect, to get dolled up before a family visit or to just leave feeling more confident than when they arrived. “There are a lot of women who come here every week,” Beth said, estimating she has about 20 appointments per day.
“They are used to going to the beauty parlor every week when they were growing up.” Beth attended Ambler Beauty Academy many years ago to learn her trade. Through word of mouth, she heard about the job at Masonic Village and seized the opportunity. “I was part-time at first because I was raising children and wanted to be home with them,” she said, “but then the hours and clients kept increasing.” She said she stays at Masonic Village because she enjoys working with the senior population. “They are very knowledgeable, and they tell a lot of stories,” she said. “You need to have a lot of patience and most importantly, you need to care. This is someone’s grandmother or mother. They need to be taken care of.” Laura Hevener, a stylist at Oasis Salon and Spa at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, estimates she sees between 10 and 14 clients per day. To accommodate the growing demand, there are two salons located in retirement living and one in the Masonic Health Care Center. Laura works in retirement living alongside another full-time stylist, her manager, and another woman who comes in on Thursdays to do facials, manicures and pedicures. A barber is starting soon to assist with the male clients.
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“It gets super busy in here, but I really like working with the residents,” Laura said. “I like listening to their life stories, what they’ve done in life and where they’ve traveled. They have a lot of wisdom and stories to share.” She said many of her female clients come in once a week for a shampoo or a set. Like Beth, she thinks it harkens back to a time when women, particularly homemakers, would leave the house and treat themselves. “It’s a lifestyle that they’re used to. It makes them feel good to have their hair done by someone who gives them time and attention,” Laura said. Barbara Osborne has worked as a stylist at Masonic Village at Warminster for 18 years. She owned her own shop before she began working at several longterm care communities. She’s really happy with where she is now because she has developed relationships with her clients, and they feel like family. “I just like making people feel good,” she said. “For me, working at a [long-term care community] is a lot less stressful. The people are friendly and have lots of stories. To go back to a regular salon now, I would probably have to go back to school because all the styles are different. I like doing perms and short, simple haircuts.” Pam Freyermuth has worked full-time at the salon at Masonic Village at Sewickley for the past 19 years. She previously worked for the Masonic Eastern Star Home-West (which was closed in 2001 when the Masonic Village at Sewickley officially opened the Star Points personal care building) for 20 years. Pam said she typically sees nine to 15 clients a day, but every day is different. “If I’m doing a lot of perms, I can’t fit in too many other appointments,” she said. “I have a woman who comes in twice a week to help me so that I’m not totally by myself. We also have a volunteer who comes in once a week.” She said the residents are so grateful to have their hair done, and she has never received a complaint in all her years here. “I think seniors feel good when they get their hair done. It’s not just a service, but a chance to be with people,” she said. “It adds a little bit to their day-to-day routine and gives them something to look forward to.” Pictured are stylists Barbara (left), Beth (top right), Pam (middle) and Laura (bottom). MasonicVillages.org
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A Recipe for Success Thad is working on his Certified Executive Chef Certification, which entails taking classes and completing a written exam to test knowledge and a practical exam to test skills and proficiencies. “Continuing education assists with maintaining and improving performance by refreshing and advancing skills and practices while offering different points of view,” Thad said.
When Thad Campbell, food production manager at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, isn’t coordinating behind-the-scenes efforts of 20 kitchens across campus, he’s cooking up plenty of inspiration for his staff to keep learning and growing. His focus on his day-to-day work, continuing education and the culinary industry’s reputation in the community has earned him the American Culinary Federation’s Chef Professionalism Award. Inspired by television chefs Julia Child and Galloping Gourmet, Thad started cooking meals for his family at an early age. His first brush with the culinary arts and hospitality industry was at age 15 in the Quentin Haus Restaurant. He was hired as a dishwasher but was quickly promoted to cook. As 8
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he prepared to choose his path for the future, he was leaning toward art until he discovered the Lebanon County Career and Technology Center (LCCTC) offered a culinary arts class that included lessons in carving ice – a combination of his passions for art and food service. Thad graduated from LCCTC with a culinary diploma and earned the Outstanding Culinary Student of the Year award, but his education was just beginning. “I wanted to continually improve, so I decided to work in places that pushed me to be better and expand my knowledge,” he said. “I decided to leave the area and work at high end hotels and restaurants in two different countries where I learned much of what I know from top chefs within the field.”
Thad joined Masonic Village in March 2018. His work day starts before most people are awake. He greets the team he oversees in the Culinary Arts Center (the hub of food service operations on campus) to make sure they are set for the day. He checks emails, attends meetings and spends most of his time working on production and assisting with any issues. He is constantly developing new and more efficient procedures, as well as new recipes to suit a variety of tastes. “We have to be very organized, consistent and accurate to fulfill all of the menu items for every location while maintaining the demands and expectations of every area,” he said.
“I like to have my employees’ input for our menus, so they can be part of the process and be proud of their work. Residents like to have their recipes included to allow for a more personal menu and have the opportunity to relive memories.”
The culinary arts and hospitality industry has a reputation for having long hours, including holidays, weekends, late nights and little time off for workers. Thad found a much different culture at Masonic Village. “They embrace the Mission of Love, not only with their residents, but also their employees,” he said. “Everyone here is like family and will do anything to assist each other in times of need. The atmosphere of collaboration, professionalism and striving for improvement is motivating.” Thad uses his skills and knowledge to serve his community by volunteering on advisory committees with local culinary and pastry schools and helping develop standardized exams for culinary and pastry arts programs across the country. He also coordinates donations from the Culinary Arts Center to the Ronald McDonald House in Hershey once a year.
“When I was working in London, my chef taught me it takes more talent to make a dish taste fantastic utilizing less ingredients and processes than to complicate a dish with procedures and flavors,” he said. “He challenged me to create all of my dishes using three ingredients or fewer and to simplify my way of thinking.
“I also enjoy cooking with my kids, whether it is making homemade pasta or something as simple as chocolate chip pancakes for breakfast. Anything that I cook with them is my favorite.”
When Thad is in the kitchen, he strives to keep it simple, which makes it easy to please palates of all ages.
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Educating & Inspiring WHETHER IT IS A PASSION for children, technology, other cultures or personal growth, Masonic Villages’ residents have used their voices to open the minds of individuals of all ages and help lead them to success.
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For the Love of Children PEARL WENHOLD HAS WORKED WITH CHILDREN all of her life, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. She is used to being around a lot of children since she grew up with four brothers and two sisters. They took care of each other, she said. She also looked after other people’s children when America’s entry into World War II brought with it a boom in the defense industry. Women and men joined defense plants to patriotically support the country in wartime.
“I’ve always loved being around children. I just think they are great,” Pearl said. “If you can make them happy, that’s all that matters.” A resident at Masonic Village at Warminster, Pearl is a retired teacher’s aide and pediatric nurse’s aide. She took classes at Bucks County Technical School, with training at Doylestown Hospital. She finished school and became a licensed practical nurse in 1968. Her graduation picture still hangs with pride on her bedroom wall. Pearl spent years as a pediatric nurse’s aide at Grand View Hospital in
Sellersville. One day, a teacher from Bucks County Intermediate Unit, an educational service agency, asked Pearl if she would be interested in working with children with disabilities. She immediately said “yes” and spent eight years helping the children in the classroom, on field trips and getting on and off the school bus. She did this for several years before retiring. Pearl moved to Masonic Village in September 2019 and is very happy with her decision. She has been a member of the Order of the Eastern Star for 62 years and is a Past Matron of Lenape Chapter No. 339 in Quakertown.
children. Her only child, a son, lives in Utah, and her grandchildren live far away. Fortunately, Masonic Village arranges intergenerational programs so residents have the chance to do crafts, sing, play games and interact with children. “When we had our Christmas party in the dining room, I dressed up as Mrs. Claus,” she said. “I met two little boys in the hallway and gave them candy canes. I think children are precious.”
“I knew about Masonic Village because I used to come down and play bingo when I was younger,” she said. “I was able to bring some things from home which made the transition easier.” Pearl said she misses being around MasonicVillages.org
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A Worldwide Influencer THERE’S A LOT THAT COULD BE SAID ABOUT MILANA “MIM” BIZIC and her influence in the classroom, on Serbian culture in America and within her Pittsburgh community. But perhaps Steve “Woz” Wozniak, Apple co-founder and philanthropist, said it best in 1988: “You will probably never realize or fully believe what an important inspiration your example has been to me, mostly in education, but also in kindness and friendliness. This inspiration has kept me moving the last couple of years toward my goal of teaching and helping youngsters. I wish the Mim Bizics of the world were more abundant and more in control of things.” The two met when he presented her with her first of four Apple Computer Awards for her work introducing students in grades first through sixth to computers. They became friends, corresponding over the years, and Woz even made a visit to Edgeworth Elementary School, where Mim taught, upon her retirement in 2004. “He always did so much for me and impacted my life in a positive way,” Mim said.
Born to Teach Mim is quick to pass the credit for her drive and success to her parents. Both her maternal and paternal Serbian Orthodox grandparents immigrated from the Austro-Hungarian Empire, now known as Croatia, in 1897 and 1908. They didn’t have a lot of money but had plenty of honesty, loyalty and bravery.
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“I had two hardworking parents,” she said. “My father was 100% deaf by age 17, and my mother was crippled from an accident at age 7, but they never let their handicaps get in their way. Milan Karlo worked for the San Francisco Chronicle. They were changing things he wrote, and his editors told him to go with the flow. He wouldn’t, and he quit. It was the best gift he ever gave us – standing up for what he believed.” Her mother, Laura Mamula Karlo, attended Carnegie Tech. She taught database skills for Kaiser in California to 40 women from Oklahoma who fled the Dust Bowl, and back in Pittsburgh, worked at the family’s store and in a factory. Growing up on the southside of Pittsburgh, Mim’s whole family – aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents – lived
within a few blocks of each other, making for a wonderful upbringing. Her fifth grade teacher, Ms. Veronica Wolfe, made a permanent impression on Mim, even after saying her name, Milana Karlo, incorrectly. “I was so embarrassed,” she recalls. “She finally asked me how to say it and replied to me by saying, ‘It sounds just like a movie star.’ She was a wonderful teacher and such an inspiration.” Mim taught for 42 years, mostly in Quaker Valley School District, as well as at Penn State’s Beaver campus, covering graduate level courses on integrating computers into the curriculum. “It was beautiful because you had such creative, dynamic, productive parents;
“I was sold [on computers]. I was so impressed with what they could do. I took one into school and used it in the most creative and unique ways.”
children who came ready to learn; and grandparents who were ready to help in any way, plus administration and fellow teachers,” she said of her classroom experience.
An Early Adapter In the early 1980s, Mim was one of few women who signed up for a six-day intensive course on Fortran computer coding. On the last day of the course, the professor, Don Caputo, came back from lunch with three large boxes with the now familiar Apple logo. She recalls him saying, “This just came in. I don’t know how it works or how to put it together, but I do know it’s going to change the world.” “I was sold,” Mim said. “I was so impressed with what they could do. I took one into school and used it in the most creative and unique ways.” At the time, American workers were used to large computer mainframes which took up entire rooms. Having children learn BASIC computing on a machine that fit on a table put Mim ahead of most classrooms across the country. In addition to her Apple Computer Awards in 1985, 86, 87 and 89 (she was ineligible in 1988 to give others a chance), the Smithsonian recognized her as the #1 Honoree for the National Science Award. She was named a Who’s Who of American Teaching in 1992 and a Who’s Who
of American Women in 1995. Beyond the classroom, she was recognized as Woman of the Year in Sewickley (1987) and as Citizen of the Year for Sewickley (1997), along with Dr. Robert Fusco and Dr. Joe Marrone.
Pride in the Past Mim’s pride in her heritage and family is on full display in her apartment at the Masonic Village at Sewickley. Photos of relatives with Serbian royalty cover windowsills, and her bedroom wall features a woven tapestry that once belonged to King Aleksandar of Yugoslavia, symbolizing the Kingdom of Yugoslavia’s coat of arms. One of her most prized possessions is her grandmother’s diaries. In addition to her active support of war efforts during World War I and World War II, one of Mim’s favorite details of her grandmother’s life is an encounter with King Peter of Serbia. Upon meeting him, Mim’s grandmother said, “I want to kiss your hand for all you’ve done.” The king replied, “It is I who should kiss your hand.” In September, Mim fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Serbia for the 75th anniversary of the Halyard Mission, a trip that came together in less than three weeks, thanks in part to Rep. Valerie Gaydos, who traveled with her. In 1944, 512 American airmen (432 American and 80 Allied) were MasonicVillages.org
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“L” is for Learning On the importance of continuing to learn, no matter your age, Mim partially credits her spark to Dr. Seuss and his book, “On Beyond Zebra!”, and Astronaut James Lovell, who quoted the book during a keynote address at Mim’s sister’s college graduation: “In the places I go, there are things that I see, That I never could spell if I stopped with the Z!” She passed this lesson onto countless students, reminding them even once they completed high school and college, their education was just getting started. Her son, Nick, also a history buff, has inherited her love of learning, along with her granddaughter, Jocelyn. rescued by Yugoslavian resistance leader Draža Mihailović and hid by local families. This was the greatest rescue of American airmen ever, but it was covered up by the State Department for political expediency. It is a story close to Mim’s heart since more than 20 of the men who participated in the mission or were rescued lived in the Pittsburgh area, including George Vujnovich, who planned and coordinated the mission from Italy and grew up across the street from Mim’s father. She heard tales of the rescue since she was 7 years old. As soon as Mim learned the trip was happening, she began raising money for the Halyard Mission Scholarship Fund for graduating seniors who are grandchildren of those who contributed to the rescue mission. The worldwide goal for the fund was 14
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$8,000. Hoping to raise a few hundred dollars, by the time she presented the check, Mim had raised $6,100, thanks to friends and family. The highlights of her trip included meeting with relatives in Belgrade she hadn’t seen in 10 years. “It’s like I was there yesterday,” she said. She was also able to shake hands with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić (pictured left), who asked her for information on her website (babamim.com) which covers much of the history about Draža Mihailović and the rescue. “The best part was hearing all those famous people on the stage saying this was and is the greatest rescue ever from behind enemy lines,” Mim said. “It was covered up for so long. It was thrilling to hear Americans and Serbians talk about it.”
Mim continues her education every day at Masonic Village. “I’ve made wonderful new friends with amazing stories to tell, like World War II hero John Francis or Marie Hetherington, who was an opening act for Sinatra (see her story on p. 20),” Mim said. “There is always something going on – morning, noon and night. I especially love Todd DiPastino’s history presentations and the wide variety of incredibly talented musical groups.” Next on her to-do list is a trip to Paris and London in April with her sister, and then a few months later, she’s headed to Alaska.
“Keep yourself open to opportunity,” Mim encourages others. “I’m a crow’s nester – always on the lookout for what’s next.”
Continuing a life’s passion AT 85 YEARS OLD, HERMINE CHERN SHOWS NO SIGNS OF SLOWING DOWN, whether at her job assisting children or in her free time enjoying musical performances. A Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill resident, she spends her days working as a school psychologist at two Philadelphia area charter schools where she evaluates children for special education placements. “I test kids, observe them in their classes and speak to their teachers,” Hermine said. “I feel like a detective because I have to make decisions about the services they [the kids] are legally provided. It’s a big responsibility.” Despite the challenges, Hermine said she doesn’t plan on retiring anytime soon. Working helps her “stay young” and allows her the opportunity to go to the orchestra and the opera, which can be costly. “I like working. I think it keeps you young and involved,” she said. “I feel valuable and useful. As long as I feel like I’m making a contribution, I’ll keep working.”
Hermine was a history and English teacher at the Murrell Dobbins Career and Technical Education High School in Philadelphia before becoming a school counselor. She earned her doctorate degree in counseling/psychology from Temple University. She also has a bachelor’s degree in business and a master’s degree in counseling, both from Temple. During her young adult years, there were limited opportunities for women in the workforce, Hermine said. She didn’t want to be a nurse or a secretary, but she needed a job, and teaching suited her. She decided to continue with her education because she could – she was single, childless and wanted to “get out of her parent’s house,” she joked.
“I took classes at night and worked during the day,” she said. “I was young. I had to make a living. It was challenging, and I liked it.” Hermine has lived at Masonic Village for four years. She enjoys feeling safe. “It’s just easy here,” she said. “I like my apartment. It’s like my miniature home.” MasonicVillages.org
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Reaching Her Students ONE OF THE MANY CHALLENGES OF TEACHING is growing to know each student’s personality and learning preferences. With upwards of 30 students in a class, a teacher has a lot to remember and manage. Donna Patrick loved this part of her job teaching first graders, and when she later became principal, knowing the names and personalities of hundreds of students was a point of pride for her. She started her first job just three days after graduating from Shippensburg State College (now Shippensburg University) with her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. She taught first graders at Lickdale Elementary, which was located near the Fort Indiantown Gap National Guard Training Center. When several refugees from Vietnam ended up in the school district, she had her first student who didn’t speak English. She worked with other teachers to figure out the best approach to help the young girl, including cutting out pictures with labels and asking her other students to assist. “It was one of my more challenging accomplishments,” Donna recalls. “In the classroom, especially in first grade, seeing any student in September not being able to read the printed word and then leaving as a reader in June is a highlight for any early education leader.”
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After four years, she moved onto Derry Township School District and continued to teach first grade.
“Seeing any student in September not being able to read ... then leaving as a reader in June is a highlight for any early educational leader.”
“Every day was unique,” Donna said. “You had no idea what was going to happen. You could have a plan, but then you’d have a child who needed extra attention because of something that happened at home the night before. The ability to be flexible was important. With 25-30 students in a classroom, it’s a challenge for teachers to service the needs of all students.” Educating her students and herself were equally important to Donna. Throughout her career, she took continuing education and additional graduate level classes. During summers, she attended workshops. She eventually earned a supervisor of elementary education certificate from Millersville University and a principal certification from Temple University. In January 1991, just as Donna had finished her coursework at Temple, Derry Township School District had an opening for a principal of third, fourth and fifth grades. She was the first classroom teacher who was promoted to a leadership role. “The challenge was always to make sure students and staff were safe and secure,” she said, “and that all students were making progress. I tried to provide constructive feedback so all of us could grow to
meet the needs of our students. We all worked hard for success.” Donna was fortunate many families in her school district valued education and were supportive of efforts to ensure students were well-rounded and advanced every year. She was reminded of this whenever she ran into former students and their parents and they’d thank her and her faculty for what they did. “One of my goals was attempting – despite it being a large building with upwards of 750 kids – to know the names of all the children who were entrusted to us,” she said. “I couldn’t name them all, but I made a valiant attempt.”
families and faculty. I could relate and commiserate and be a role model.” For Donna and Ken, Masonic Village is the perfect place to continue being active, while having less to worry about in terms of home maintenance or future needs. They keep busy with pickle ball, ballroom dancing, teaching line dancing and traveling.
Another effort Donna made to connect with students was hosting a weekly lunch. She invited a child from each homeroom to meet in her office, and they’d sit around a table and talk about what they liked to do outside of school, books they read, their interests and whatever else came to mind.
“It built common bonds among the students,” she said. “I enjoyed talking with them. I’d call their parents after lunch and tell them I appreciated the opportunity to meet with their child. I wanted people to know the principal’s office wasn’t just for those students who made bad choices.”
Donna retired in 2005. With 14 years as principal; 20 years in the classroom; and a year and a half as a curriculum coordinator, mentor for new hires and peer coach, she had met a lot of faculty, students and parents. She often sees them in the community and has even met several parents of students at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, where she and her husband, Ken, have lived since 2012.
“It’s carefree living,” Donna said. “I have wonderful neighbors. Security is always around. I’m enjoying retirement and life at Masonic Village.” Donna may never learn the names of all 2,000+ residents at Masonic Village, but she has no shortage of friends to eat lunch with. While they may call her Donna, to many in the community, she will always be known as Mrs. Patrick.
“I look back with fondness,” she said. “I enjoyed what I did, and that each day was unique. It kept you thinking and being creative. All children learn, but they learn differently and at different rates. I’m glad I spent time in the classroom before becoming principal. It gave me a better foundation to guide students, MasonicVillages.org
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A Pattern of Love, Devotion and Generosity ELAINE AND KEN BLEILER ONLY HAVE ONE BIOLOGICAL DAUGHTER, but their family includes seven others who call the Bleiler Caring Cottage home. Elaine’s devotion to giving her daughter the best opportunities in life has provided the chance for others with developmental disabilities to have a place of their own and for their families to enjoy peace of mind. Elaine is accustomed to hard work. Her father worked three jobs to put her through college. She chose a teaching career, as the options for women at the time were limited. After marrying Ken, graduating from college and spending time in Germany while Ken served in the U.S. Army, she taught first and second grades. She became pregnant with Debbie and spent 18 months at home before returning to work as a substitute teacher. As Debbie grew, Elaine noticed she crawled using her arms rather than her hands and wasn’t able to stand long. When she started walking, she’d make it three or four steps and then fall, get up and fall again, repeatedly. She also wasn’t talking much. “We tried to encourage her as best we could,” Elaine said. After talking with another mother 18
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whose son was experiencing similar issues, Elaine made an appointment at the Neurological Institute Clinic for Children in Philadelphia with Dr. Eugene Spitz when Debbie was 4 years old. He was one of the top 10 brain surgeons in the country, and he determined Debbie’s brain was injured or damaged at some point during her birth. One of his first suggestions was to implement a program called homolateral patterning. Homolateral patterning consists of turning an individual’s head to one side while flexing the arm and leg of that side and extending the arm
and leg of the opposite side. It is believed these exercises allow for free movement of electrical impulses and information between the right and left hemispheres of the brain, essentially stimulating cells which might otherwise be inactive. For the Bleilers, this meant each day for the next few years would be broken up into minutes spent doing exercises, monitoring what Debbie ate and undergoing brain surgery. Elaine put her teaching career aside. This couldn’t be done by Elaine alone. She recruited 42 friends and neighbors
to take turns helping. She always held Debbie’s head, while the others moved her arms and legs. After five minutes of stretching, Debbie had to crawl through a handmade crawl box which had clothesline across it to keep her low. Then it was back to stretching. Elaine spent every waking hour, from morning until night, doing this for several years. Ken worked full-time at GE Space, and he helped on the weekends. In 1968, at age 6, Debbie underwent brain surgery to have an inch of her skull removed. There was a chance following the surgery that she would be in a coma for weeks, but as she was wheeled out of the operating room, Debbie yelled, “Hi, Mom!” to the relief of both her parents. Her speech improved from that day forward.
“I was blessed,” Elaine said. “I met Dr. Spitz, and it was one miracle after another.” Dr. Spitz eventually closed his practice, but not before telling Debbie, “I cannot believe what a wonderful young lady you’ve become.” His expertise, combined with her parents’ daily dedication (and that of volunteers) and a few unexplained occurrences, like when she no longer needed to wear glasses, helped Debbie excel. With Elaine’s persistence and guidance, she learned to write – something her teachers said she’d never be able to do – and has grown into a capable and spirited woman. “It’s amazing as I look back,” Elaine said. “I was naïve. I didn’t know what to expect. I did what I was told to do and didn’t balk at anything.”
Open Hands and Hearts Knowing Debbie would require some assistance for the rest of her life, Elaine
Debbie with her house mates (l-r): Joe, Howard, Don, Beth, Scotty, Jeanne Marie and Holly (front).
and Ken found a solution that would benefit them and countless other families who have loved ones with intellectual developmental disabilities. Ken is a longtime Mason, and they knew the Masonic fraternity would be a good place to turn for help. Through the generosity of the Bleilers and the support of Masonic Village staff and Pennsylvania Freemasons, the Bleiler Caring Cottage opened in 1998 at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. It was the only inhouse, respite care facility for adults with developmental disabilities in Lancaster County. To provide continuity for the residents living at the cottage, the respite care program was discontinued in 2003, and the eight individuals living there became permanent residents. Debbie and her house mates each have his or her own bedroom in the cottage high on a hill overlooking Lancaster County. They spend their days working full-time or part-time jobs or participating in the Adult Daily Living Center (also located on campus), and often eat dinner together, attend special events like the Night to Shine prom each year and travel. Staff provide 24-hour support.
Despite having a teaching career, Elaine always felt she was destined to be a designer. Wanting to continue to provide the best opportunities for Debbie, and all the residents of the Bleiler Caring Cottage, she combined her compassion with her creativity and began making angel pins. She sells the pins at craft shows, yard sales, festivals and among family and friends. She even formed a small business called Creations by Open Hands. All the proceeds help supply the Bleiler Caring Cottage with everything from furniture to trips to a new van.
“I have a lot to be thankful for,” Elaine said. “I could be creative, which enabled me to do all I’ve done to support the cottage.” As for Debbie, she is thriving at the Bleiler Caring Cottage. She works at the local Goodwill and volunteers with her father at Masonic Village. While Elaine isn’t spending nearly as much time with her as she did when Debbie was a young child, her and Ken’s cottage is just a short walk from Debbie’s. “I’m proud of who she has become,” Elaine said.
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All the Right
MOVES MARIE HETHERINGTON DIDN’T DISCOVER DANCING as much as dancing found her. It was after a chance audition for a group of students she was teaching that Marie was hired to perform shows across the country. Referred to as a “sophisticated support act” with a “keen knowledge of show business and a winning personality” in reviews, her signature upside-down twist made Marie a sensation during a time when war efforts dominated the news. It all started when she was 4 or 5 years old and her mother signed her up for ballet and acrobatic lessons. Every Saturday, she would accompany Marie to a studio and write down all the steps the teachers taught. Back at home, she would have Marie practice the steps every day. “It was interesting, and I wanted to learn something,” she recalls. “I was good at it, as my teachers said. They moved me up with the older girls. I just kept doing it.” She never considered pursuing dance professionally but did end up teaching it. When her school was contacted by someone hiring dancers and entertainers, she accompanied a group of her
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students to an audition. She later returned to the audition site to collect money, and the recruiter said to her, “I heard you were very good at dancing.”
“They said they wanted to put me in some shows,” Marie recalls. “I said, ‘I’ll try it.’ They told me where to go, and I ended up across the United States, mainly down south.” For the next 10 years, under the stage name Marie Leslie, she opened for acts ranging from dancers to musicians. Her routine included tap and acrobatic dancing and singing. Marie’s signature “upside-down twist” was highlighted in all the promotions for her shows (of which she still has many copies). “People didn’t know what it was and wanted to see it,” she said. “I’d stand on my head and bend my knees and go back and forth with my legs.” One of her most memorable performances was in New York when she opened for Frank Sinatra. “I saw him, and he saw me,” she recalls. “We waved at each other.” Her mother was her biggest fan. Both her parents
attended her shows whenever possible. “My mother had taken me all over the place. She was so happy because I was doing all this,” Marie said. “She was so proud. She wrote down all my performances.” At age 40, Marie retired. As much as she loved dancing, traveling alone was challenging. She introduced her two daughters to dancing, although she encouraged them to stay close to home. Marie’s hidden talent didn’t remain hidden for long after she moved to Masonic Village at Sewickley in 2018. “They found out everything I could do, and now I’m doing it here,” she said. “I have a few costumes I saved, and I’m going to wear a red one with fringes to the 60s event. I love it here. It’s the people who are friendly, and you can talk to them. There are so many things to do. I can stay in my apartment, or I can go walking or to the swimming pool. You can do anything.” She might not be performing the upsidedown twist anymore, but being a dancer will always be part of Marie’s life story. “I’ve enjoyed everything that happened to me,” she said. “I’ve had an interesting life and a good one.” MasonicVillages.org
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Changes Are Coming to Your IRA AT THE END OF 2019, Congress passed legislation that includes a variety of changes regarding retirement accounts, including IRAs. Outlined below are highlights of the changes in the law which any IRA account owner should be aware of: • The required minimum distribution (RMD) will now increase from age 70½ to 72 for anyone turning 70½ after Dec. 31, 2019. • Parents can withdraw up to $5,000 from an IRA within a year of a child’s birth or adoption without penalty but must pay income tax on the withdrawal. • Individuals who inherit an IRA from people who passed away after Dec. 31, 2019, must take the money out of the IRA and pay all taxes due within 10 years, with exceptions for spouses, minor children and heirs who are chronically ill or disabled. Some commentators say that this 10-year rule applies to regular and Roth IRA accounts. This could have a profound impact on many heirs of large IRA accounts.
• The minimum age for Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) is not changed by the law. QCDs can still be made to charity without being taxed for anyone age 70½ or older. A more detailed article on this topic will be available in the spring issue of “The Blitz” newsletter. Attorney Alvin Blitz will specifically address the use of the charitable remainder trust to extend the time period beyond 10 years for inherited IRAs. If you would like to receive “The Blitz,” please contact the Masonic Charities Office of Gift Planning at 1-800-599-6454.
To Our 2019 Supporters r u o y r o . f r s a nk his ye e a k Th ve t a m lo gifts r o f e r c u n o e . Y iffer s t n e d d i s a r re ou 22
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QTY ITEM UNIT COST Adult Daily Living Center 1 3D printer for crafting and activities $500 Bleiler Caring Cottage Living room matching end tables $500 Future camping trips for residents $5,000 Masonic Children’s Home 1 Sports equipment $500 Masonic Village at Dallas 2 Phillips HeadStart AED (defibrillator) $1,275 Masonic Village at Elizabethtown 90 Special meal service events for $15 residents who exhausted funds 10 Mobility shuttle rides $15 250 Fluoride treatments (not covered $20 by insurance) 10 Gift cards to restaurants $20 20 Hair care service gift certificates $25 20 Special bus trips/entertainment $25 8 Baseball tickets $25 12 Clothing gift certificates $50 4 Massages for pain $65 3 Wellness personal training sessions $90 5 Wellness center memberships $120 5 All-weather courtyard armchairs (set of 4) $400 1 Sensory LED bubble wall $425 Large print library books for Masonic $3,000 Health Care Center Library Books and magazines for $3,000 Grand Lodge Hall Library Books and magazines for $3,000 Clubhouse Library 4 Gliders $1,650 2 Blanket warmers $2,600 1 Chair scale $4,300 Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill 1 Jukebox $1,450 1 Upright piano $8,000 Masonic Village at Sewickley 1 Portable sound system $1,000 1 Outdoor movie screen and projector $2,000 1 Recording technology system $3,000 1 Nordic Wellness Chair $8,500 1 It’s Never 2 Late (computer system) $9,000 1 Assembly Room projector $9,977 Masonic Village at Warminster 1 Enlarge small pond in courtyard $35,000
MASONIC VILLAGES’ WISH LIST You can make a difference in the lives of our residents!
Thank you to the following contributors: Bleiler Caring Cottage Richard G. and Charleyne M. Calabro: Future camping trip Washington Lodge No. 59: Internet service and Sharp Sweepers Masonic Children’s Home Wayne M. and Nancylee Garafola: Various items Ronald A. and Judy A. McKnight: Various items Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Donald A. and Mary B. Bagshaw: Local restaurant gift card John H. and Donna Beiseigel: Exercise machine for Adult Daily Living Center Scott J. Davison: Dining room table, chairs and hutch Wayne M. and Nancylee Garafola: Various items Sherwood L. and Jean A. Kneebone: Hair care gift certificates and local restaurant gift cards for Hospice Masonic Village Piecemakers Quilting Club: Wheelchairs for Adult Daily Living Center Michael S. and Rebecca Maxwell: Jigsaw puzzle spinners and stands James B and Priscilla Petrondi: Special meal service event Henry F. Scheck, Jr.: Wheelchair ponchos Walter C. and Susan Service, III: Mobility shuttle ride, portable CD player and Hospice hospitality cart supplies Patricia Thompson: Hair care gift certificate Washington Lodge No. 59: Tickets to a local baseball game
There is an all-inclusive wish list posted on MasonicCharitiesPA.org, or feel free to contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454. Please note that if funds donated for any item listed are over-subscribed, the funds ill be used for additional wish list items or needs in the same service area.
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Thanks to Our Donors Memorial Gifts The following memorial gifts were made Aug. 1- Oct. 31, 2019. 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 Gift Planning at 800-599-6454; 717-367-1121, ext. 33430; or by emailing giving@masonicvillages.org. Thank you. George J. Armstrong Joseph and Susan Armstrong Vincent W. Attaviano Marion Attaviano Beverly A. Baker George Baker William Baker, Sr. Jane Baker Earl and Frances Baringer Paul Baringer Joan Margaret Bartlett Kim Hennon Nancy Barto Loretta Ann Fappiano Richard Basehore Fred and Dottie Basehore August E. Bauer LeRoy McClellan Howard A. Beiseigel John Beiseigel Stuart I. Blitz Houseman Lodge No. 211 Marie Bond Masonic Village at Dallas Social Committee Archie J. Branton, Jr. Jane Branton Geraldine (Gerry) A. Bricker-Vaughan Camilla Anderson Joseph and Elizabeth Barnes Ken and Elaine Bleiler Roger and Anne Burkhart Sharon Edwards Elizabethtown Masonic Village Shrine Club Bill and Carla Fishel Robert and Marilyn Forney FRA, Harrisburg Branch 106 Happy Mad Hatters Bryan and Eileen Hill Jerry and Pat Kemmerer Cynthia and Jerry Kopenhaver Ginny Locker Ted Nichols Julia Siipple Elvin Silvius James Silvius James Vaughan Roger and Susan Wheeler Willard-Waterman Court No. 54, Order of the Amaranth Larry and Carol Wolford Evelyn L. Briel Irene Van Tassel
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James and Helen Brookhart Don and Pat March Charles and Hilda Buehler Clintin and Karen Probst Betty Burgess Ronald and Alice Burgess Margaret “Ginny� Ceneviva Pat and Bob Jones Robert Momorella Louis Sayland Lynda Sayland Upper Moreland Township PBA Andrew Charles Willaline Charles Toby Zelda Chase Judith Arnoff Valerie Cutler Lou and Helayne Dodson Matt and Heather Greenberg Laura McCabe Stepanie Newman Lois Cherry Larry and Carol Wolford Alva and Martha Cochran Thomas and Carol Cochran Donald F. Coles, Sr. Etta Coles Clarence J. Cox Carla Cox Harold Cramer Hackenburg Mount Moriah Lodge No. 19 Joy Crawford Mason Crawford Edwin F. Davies, Sr. Edwin and Bernice Davies Jason L. Dean Richard Dean Jean K. Dent Ruth Fishel Richard and Barbara Haas Jerry and Grace Langholdt Jason Schneider Chester A. and Marian E. Derk, Sr. Chester and Barbara Derk, Jr. Antoinette DeSalis Timothy Desalis M. Grace Di Massa Elizabethtown Chapter No. 407, O.E.S. Ord L. Dixon Jean Dixon Henry C. Dobbs Henry Dobbs, Jr. Joseph Dodd Allen and Shirley Chadish James Donnon John and Joan Groves Laura W. Dove Albert Dove Katherine M. Dubbs Wayne and Debra Dubbs
Manon Duck Don and Shirley Miller Lee Eck Edmund and Darlene Ludwig Anna Mae Eiceman Berle Eiceman Mary Elanjian Paul Elanjian Marie Eltz Doris Rodgers Ruth Emberger James Seibert Earl A. Emerich Joyce Emerich James T. English Margery English Jimmie and Lorene Erwin Jimmie and Barbara Erwin, Jr. Yvonne M. Fafata Robert Fafata Lori Fehnel Charmaine Florey David and Helen Hughes Glen David Fisher John and Barbara Kolchin Carl R. Flohr Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, Order of Eastern Star, Inc. Elizabeth Maffett Lorraine Formica Martha Blackstone Forrest E. Forney Robert and Nancy Forney Samuel Fratis Stephen Long Father and Mother Frischauf Alice Mason Grace Frishkorn Michael and Elizabeth Maugans Roy Fulmer Jack and Debra Fulmer Connie Gehman Suzanne Anderson Elizabeth J. Goettle William and Marjorie Goettle William Graves Southampton Square Club Glen Griffith Bertram and Patsy Griffith Gertrude “Trudy” Gutshall Preston and Brenda Van Deursen Robert Hagerich Robert Scott and Diane Hagerich Ruth H. Hasenauer Mary Jane Keim Mildred Henritzy Eileen Hill Sterling Hepler Duane and Nancy Hepler Raymond H. Herot Houseman Lodge No. 211 Betty Herriott Dell, Inc. Ryan Utzler Sidney S. and Sylvia M. Hersh Joel Hersh and Cynthia Tyger Paul W. Hess Judith Hess Bill Hibbard William and Sandy Wood Charles and Loretta Hill James and Mary Hill Jerome L. and Kathryn Hitz Paul Thompson Delmer Hoover Dallas Hoover Robert P. Hromika Carolyn Hromika David and Alicia Hunsberger Timothy and Fay Pletcher Helen Jaymes Nora Beyers Irene L. Jochen Al Jochen Thomas Johnson Hackenburg Mount Moriah Lodge No. 19 William Josephson Michael and Sandra Josephson Vincent J. Joyce Winifred Joyce
Jon Katherine Ken and Elaine Bleiler Frank H. Kendra Anthony DiBattista Claire E. Kistler Bev Schweitzer Albert and Mary Kling Albert and Roberta Kling George and Douglas Krissinger Ann Krissinger Edwina “Sherrie” Letcher Camilla Anderson Ken and Elaine Bleiler Jim and Betty Gotta David and Beth Griffin David and Nancy Halliwell Happy Mad Hatters Eileen Hill Ray and Patricia Horn Bruce and Joan Howarth Kimberly Jankowski Pat and Jerry Kemmerer Gary and Shirley Letcher Pennsylvania TorchBearer Kappa Reading Barbara Zell Dominick Lizzi David and Alda Lizzi Harry W. Locke Lee Locke Richard Lower Marion Attaviano Bruce and Joan Howarth Anthony and Jean Loy Clintin and Karen Probst Kenneth and Pauline March Don and Pat March Thomas H. Martin Elizabeth Martin Marie Massa Michael and Rebecca Maxwell Florence E. Maugans Michael and Elizabeth Maugans Audrey J. McBride Lisa McBride Cora McClune Roger and Anne Burkhart Roger and Susan Wheeler Brinton L. McCully Evelyn McCully R. Dale McDowell Bonnie McDowell Lloyd McKee Dean and Brenda Miller John L. Mengel, Jr. Dale Schoeneman Paul E. Meyers Donald Meyers Glenn Miller Betty Miller Joyce Miller William and Donna Miller Dan Milligan Kathy Milligan Lillian Milliron Eric and Lois Milliron Harry S. Mills Skip and Elizabeth Mills June Y. Mitchell Elizabethtown Chapter No. 407, O.E.S. Fred E. Muller, Jr. Southampton Square Club Gertrude K. Myers Stephen and Kathy Kiessling Hubert G. Myers Eva Myers Robert J. Nagel Judy Nagel
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James C. Nickle Thomas and Terry Kamerzel George Ovington Edwin and Bernice Davies Donald Ray Phariss John Beiseigel Ruth J. Phillips James Phillips Betty Pirnick John and Julie Tomlinson H. Stanley Redline Duane and Doris Redline Larry G. Ritter Doris Ritter Jim Roach, Jr. Southampton Square Club Charles E. Rose Donna Rose Stanley H. Roth Marlene Roth Tom Rothwell Lillian Rothwell George Runkle Alvin and Iris Goodman Lynn A. and Jonathan D. Rutkowski Daniel Rutkowski Roy I. Schell George Schell Donna M. Scott Donald Scott Henry S. Seitz John Seitz John G. Shaffer John Shaffer George B. Sheasley Anna Sheasley Kim Shelley Donald and Jane Hacker Jean Silvius James Silvius Millie Sinopoli Henry and Jocelyn Sinopoli Robert K. Sloan Edna Sloan Donald A. Smith Barbara Smith Pauline Spangler Delbert and Fern Skinner Danny Spickler Jim and Betty Gotta Dot Spickler Paul and Christiana Fauser Arnold Stackhouse Bruce and Joan Howarth Ruth E. Steeb Peter and Mary Steeb Dale R. Stump Gail Stump TU College of Business and Economics Wilson L. Sturgeon H. T. and Vicki Silbaugh Joseph T. (J.T.) Sullivan Ann Carr Margery English Richard and Debbie Friedman Walter and Peggy Gozdan Ben and Polly Levinson Elizabeth Lexa Sidney MacLeod Jr. Bernard Moore Paula O’Reilly Josephine Palancia Eleanor Rankin Chris Reynolds Thomas and Sharon Smith
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Kathryn Frances Sullivan-Bacher Anna Johnson Herbert M. Swisher Beryl Swisher Wayne Serena Thomas Polly Thomas Nancy Marie (Hitz) Thompson Paul Thompson Emily Louise Tumolo Ken and Elaine Bleiler Masonic Village Travel Club James Silvius Lloyd Tyson, Jr. Jacquelin Tyson Mable H. Van Dyke David Van Dyke Fred Washkevich Louise Washkevich Leroy (Roy) James Watters, Jr. Patricia Bennett Donald Bruner Long Financial Group, LLC Rachel Uhrich Elizabeth Weamer Bruce and Irene Christman Joseph L. Weber Lucille Weber James Whittington Thomas and Phyllis Cercone Rose H. Wible Sandra and Don Kunz Florence Willis William Reaghard David Winter Loretta Winter James H. Wolf, Jr. Dorothy Wolf Walter H. Wright Jr. Carolyn Wright Reba Yottey Gael Rapp John and Eloise Ziegler John and Marguerite Ziegler Ben Zisselman John and Barbara Kolchin
Honorarium Gifts The following honorarium gifts were made Aug. 1 - Oct. 31, 2019. 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. Helen J. Bell Dale R. Chomas Bob Emberger Daniel Hoover John Hoover Marjorie Learn Kenneth C. March Gregg D. McBride, Jr. Joseph (Joe) E. Murphy
Gordon L. Bell John and Joan Lee James Seibert Dallas Hoover Larry and Kathleen Snyder Paul MacDonald Don and Pat March Lisa McBride Chuck and Bunny Armstrong Ronald and Norma Aungst Marcia Brooks William and Susan Davis Larry and Rochelle Derr Vicki Gillmore William and Marjorie Goettle Earl Harris Jim Heckman Pat and Ray Horn Bruce and Joan Howarth Evelyn Hunter-Longdon Richard and Jo Ann Keller Gerald and Pat Kemmerer John and Barbara Kolchin William and Nancy Jo Marsden Doug and Joyce May Rosemary Merwin Greg and Edie Moyer Charles Myers Alan and Elizabeth Naylor Herman Nowakowski
Joseph (Joe) E. Murphy Mark and Eileen Pagano William and Kathy Prazenica Edith Raup Retirement Living Residents’ Association Maynard and Edna Rosenberry Lillian Rothwell Fred and Mary Jane Sample Janet Sandy Terry and Lori Seiders Jay and Nancy Smith Robert and Cathy Snyder Clinton Spiegel Natalie Stief Ray and Annette Tierney Chuck Trexler Jeffry Tucker Preston and Brenda Van Deursen Carl Wert Ann Wildasin Mary Murphy Natalie Stief Betty L. Nickle Thomas and Terry Kamerzel Robert and Mariel Penoyer Harold and Jill Bucks Cindy R. Phillips Pat and Ray Horn Kenneth and Margaret Pineda Harold and Jill Bucks Timothy R. Reichard Desmond Bartlett Megan Jarmusz Stephanye Smith Heath and Holly Mackley Sherrie Sutter David and Helen Hughes Carol and Larry Wolford Jean Strohm
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) 5046215 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 Lafayette Hill
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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