Village Voice - Winter 2011

VillageVoice www.masonicvillagespa.org

Winter 2011 Vol. 21, No. 1

Sharing Your Story p. 8

In this Issue...

For the Love of Angels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 2 Irem Country Club and Staff Member Honored. . . p. 3 Residents in Dallas Discover Healthy Aging.. . . . . . . p. 3 Solar Power Plant Sheds Light on Masonic Village at Elizabethtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 3 Masonic Villages Announces Leadership Changes . . p. 4 Staff Spotlight: Carol Benner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 5 Determining the Next Step. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pp. 6 - 7 A Hymn of Gratitude. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 9 Village Happenings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pp. 10 - 11

Holiday Happenings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 12 The Sky is the Limit with Ceiling Art. . . . . . . . . . p. 13 Health Update. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 14 Rehab Services Include Short-term Orthopedic. . . . p. 14 Your Estate Plan - Why You Should Consider a General Power of Attorney. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 15 Memorial Gifts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pp. 16 - 18 Honorarium Gifts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 19 Hospice Care Memorial Gifts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 19 A New Option for Today’s Donor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . back page

A publication of the Masonic Villages of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania

Village Voice

A message from

Winter 2011 The Village Voice is published four times per year.

The Masonic Villages, which include the Masonic Village at Dallas, the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, the Masonic Village at Sewickley and the Masonic Village at Warminster, are owned and operated by the Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania.

Members of: LeadingAge Pennsylvania Association of Non-profit Homes for Aging Kairos Health Systems Masonic Communities and Services Association

Admissions to the Masonic Villages are governed by the Committee on Masonic Homes, members of which are elected by the Grand Lodge. The Committee on Masonic Homes approves or disapproves applications for admission 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.

The Masonic Villages is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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Joseph E. Murphy, N.H.A., Chief Executive Officer

he new year is looking bright for the Masonic Villages, and I’m not just referring to the solar power plant being constructed in Elizabethtown (see next page). Other projects, initiatives and changes are improving our quality of care, solidifying our foundation and preparing us for the future.

The Masonic Health Care Center in Elizabethtown will undergo a major renovation in 2011. We’ll be using many aspects of the household model design to make it feel less like an institution and more like a home. To accomplish this, we are expanding some resident suites and reconfiguring nursing stations to be less obtrusive. We are refurbishing common areas, and the entire building will have a fresh new look. This renovation will take several years, moving through the different wings of the Masonic Health Care Center and ending with the Freemasons Building, our personal care residence.

The Nursing Center Project at Sewickley is continuing to progress on schedule. All of the parking lots have been constructed and foundation work for the new additions is well underway. I am happy to report the project bid well under budget.

The Governor’s Advisory Council on Physical Fitness and Sports has awarded the Masonic Children’s Home a $3,000 Get-Active! mini-grant. Staff will use this money to purchase two treadmills, giving all the cottages their own treadmill, 40 T-shirts, 40 pedometers and 40 flashlights. These items will be incorporated into a Walking Club. While many of the youth at the children’s home are involved in athletic programs with the local school district, community, recreation centers and churches, the Walking Club will encourage all the children and staff to exercise more, enjoy fresh air, improve wellness and build camaraderie.

Home care services provided in Elizabethtown and Sewickley have continued to be popular among our residents. As of Jan. 1, these services are also available to the local community (within a five mile radius) of our Elizabethtown campus.

In Dallas, residents are enjoying a new meal plan option, and the Irem Country Club has extended Sunday brunch buffet hours, modified its menu and added seafood buffet nights.

After a very popular cruise ship-themed event, Masonic Village at Warminster has some exciting activities and events planned for residents in 2011.

In Lafayette Hill, residents may take advantage of extended hours in the Bistro. Our recent Eden Alternative® commitment is continuing to present new opportunities for everyday growth as more community groups volunteer to help with events for our residents.

Look for more updates throughout the upcoming year. I hope this year is a bright one for you and your loved ones.

Village Voice Staff

Sincerely,

Debra L. Davis

Editor/public relations coordinator, Elizabethtown

Editorial Board Louisa West

administrative assistant, Lafayette Hill

Karen Hammond

activities supervisor/concierge, Sewickley

Cynthia B. Hollinger

director of volunteer services, Elizabethtown

Trisha Lamb

activities director, Warminster

Linda Tressler

executive assistant, human resources, Elizabethtown

NEXT DEADLINE: Submissions for the Spring issue of the Village Voice are due Feb. 17.

Suggestions and submissions for consideration can be sent to: Public Relations Department Masonic Village One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022 or e-mailed to pr@masonicvillagespa.org For more information, call (717) 367-1121, ext. 33529.

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n December, the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill and Sewickley held their first annual For the Love of Angels celebrations.

Through the 2010 Love of Angels appeal to benefit the Masonic Villages and the Masonic Villages Hospice program, individuals had the opportunity to make a $25 donation in loving memory or honor of one special person. In recognition of their loved one, an angel ornament was hung on an evergreen tree.

In Elizabethtown, on Dec. 12, more than 160 residents, family members of current and past residents, employees and the community came together to remember and honor loved ones. As part of the unique celebration and service, the Masonic Village Sell Chapel Handbell Choir and employees and friends of the Music Therapy Department provided special pre-service music. The beautiful half-hour service and moment of remembrance began with a welcome from Joseph E. Murphy, chief executive officer. An opening prayer, a Christmas reading and music led into a message of remembrance from Rev. A. Preston Van Deursen, director of pastoral care.

Immediately following the brief message, and while the handbell choir played “Still, Still, Still,” the family member(s) of the one being honored were given the opportunity to hang their angel ornament on the evergreen. The service concluded with the lighting of the Christmas tree. It was a very emotional and meaningful moment while loved ones, living and those who have passed on, were remembered. The tree was displayed in the Freemasons Cultural Center Atrium throughout the holiday season.

Masonic Village at Sewickley and Lafayette Hill held similar smaller celebrations and services for the residents and employees of these locations to be a part of the beginning of a tradition. It gave them the opportunity to see their loved one’s name displayed where they live and work.

Combining the trees located at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown (shown far right, top and bottom), Lafayette Hill (shown near right) and Sewickley, more than 530 loved ones were honored with the hanging of angel ornaments.

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The Village Voice • Winter 2011

Irem Country Club and Staff Member Honored

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he board of directors for United Rehabilitation Services, Inc. selected the Irem Country Club as the 2010 “Employer of the Year” for the Wilkes-Barre center for our efforts to work with United Rehabilitation Services, Inc. The organization also named Stephen Miller, utility worker for Irem Country Club, Employee of the Year for the Wilkes-Barre Employment Services program.

On Oct. 22, Noah Davis, executive director, as well as Stephen and his family, attended a dinner dance at the East Mountain Inn in Wilkes-Barre to accept the awards.

Congratulations to Stephen for a job well done and all employees for their hard work and dedication to the Irem Country Club and Masonic Village.

Shown with the Employer of the Year award are (l-r) Dale Lewis, executive chef; Noah Davis, executive director; Stephen Miller, Employee of the Year recipient; and John Reno, sous chef

Residents in Dallas Discover Healthy Aging

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Residents Rosellen Garrett, Sylvia Dreater and Joan Samuel greet attendees.

Residents Mary Lynne Kline, Keith Smith, Rita Zampetti and Annie Bisher attend a seminar.

hroughout 2010, residents of the Masonic Village at Dallas, as well as community members, learned valuable information about how age affects their bodies and ways they can improve life in their senior years. A series of healthy aging seminars held in cooperation with Misericordia University and the University of Scranton have educated dozens of attendees.

James Siberski, M.S., assistant professor, coordinator of the Gerontology Education Center for Professional Development and Geriatric Care Manager Certificate program director at Misericordia University, presented information about memory, mental health and aging, caregivers, sleep, and integrity versus despair and aging. Dr. Virginia Corcoran, assistant professor of exercise science and sport at the University of Scranton, provided a fuller understanding of the effects of diet on one’s health during “Better Foods … Better Health.”

The fall series included: “How to Stay Happy Forever,” presented by Rabbi Larry Kaplan, spiritual leader of Temple Israel and an adjunct faculty member of King’s College and Misericordia University; “Recreational Activities to Stimulate Memory;” and an AARP Safe Driving Course.

Richard and Betty Neiper, residents since May 2009, have attended almost all the seminars and have learned several ways to improve upon their quality of life. Specifically, “We learned about which medications should be avoided, especially those that may be pushed by the media,” Richard and Betty said. As a result, the couple has become more concerned with which medications their doctors prescribe.

“I received a lot of good information,” Audrey Lockhart, a resident since April 2009, said of the seminars. At her favorite seminar, “Recreational Activities to Stimulate Memory,” she learned how to maintain her memory through different exercise programs.

Residents and the community can look forward to more healthy aging seminars scheduled throughout 2011.

Solar Panels Shed Light on Masonic Village at Elizabethtown

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o ensure operations servicing more than 1,700 residents carry on uninterrupted, Masonic Village at Elizabethtown requires approximately 25 million kWh of electricity every year. In order to reduce our electric bill and carbon footprint, and in turn direct cost savings to enhancing resident care, ground was broken for a solar power plant on Dec. 20.

“This project will be the largest continuing care retirement community (CCRC)-related solar project in Pennsylvania,” Patrick Sampsell, chief environmental and facilities officer, said. “It is the premier project in the third leg of our four-legged energy efficiency plan, the others being conservation, efficiency and smart technology.”

As previously reported in the “Village Voice,” a $1 million solar energy program grant awarded to Elizabethtown Solar Electric Partners LLC is helping cover the cost of the ground-mounted solar photovoltaic system. I Need Solar is constructing the solar panels on a 5-acre plot on the Elizabethtown campus in a field behind the marketing office and Bleiler Caring Cottage, a home for adults with mild to moderate developmental disabilities. Masonic Village has granted Elizabethtown Solar Electric Partners a license to operate the plant on its property and will purchase the electricity generated by the plant.

“The partnership allows us to participate in renewable energy in a meaningful way, enhancing and building upon our long-standing record of environmental stewardship,” Patrick said. “It also minimizes the risk and exposure that may come from attempting to operate the plant ourselves, given we have no experience with such facilities.”

The project is estimated to cost $4.5 million, with the remaining $3.5 million coming from investors and loans making up the portfolio of Elizabethtown Solar Electric Partners. The first 200 kWh of the system is expected to be operating by mid-February, with the remaining 800 kWh to be operational by the end of April at the latest. When completed, the plant will produce approximately 1,200,000 kWh of electricity per year, saving Masonic Village between $40,000 and $60,000 annually.

The Village Voice • Winter 2011

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Masonic Villages Announces Leadership Changes

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ue to continued growth of the Masonic Villages, Joseph E. Murphy, chief executive officer, is pleased to announce the promotion of three staff members to new leadership positions and the promotion of two staff members to existing administrator/director positions effective Jan. 1, 2011.

Vicki L. Gillmore, R.N., Ph.D., N.H.A., has been promoted to executive director of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.

In this new position, Vicki is responsible for planning, organizing, directing and controlling all facets of the operation of the continuing care retirement community, including retirement living, the Masonic Health Care Center, the Masonic Children’s Home, the Adult Daily Living Center (adult day services) and the Bleiler Caring Cottage, a home for adults with mild to moderate developmental disabilities.

Vicki has been employed with Masonic Village as administrator of health care services since 1997. She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society, serves on the board of directors of Kairos Health Systems and is vice president of the Vicki Gillmore Beverly Sweigart Nightingale Awards of Pennsylvania, a statewide, non-profit foundation which helps to recruit and retain nursing professionals. She has taught at Millersville University and Penn State Harrisburg.

She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees and her doctorate from the University of Maryland at Baltimore.

Vicki is a member of the Order of Eastern Star, Elizabethtown Chapter No. 407, and the Christ Church United Church of Christ in Elizabethtown. She resides in Columbia and enjoys golfing, reading and listening to music.

Beverly A. Sweigart has been promoted to chief administration officer for the Masonic Villages.

In this new position, Beverly is responsible for the planning and organizing of the administrative functions for the executive level, and for the day-to-day operations of the administration department which includes the board of directors and offices of Joyce May Beth Bossert the chief executive officer, public relations and event planning.

Beverly has been employed with Masonic Village since 1986, most recently as director of administration.

Beverly and her husband, Cliff, reside in Elizabethtown with their son and daughter. She is a member of Mount Joy Mennonite Church, where she volunteers as a youth group advisor and vice-chair of the church board. She enjoys spending time with family, antiquing, flower gardening, reading, scrapbooking and riding horses.

Joyce E. May has been promoted to director of annual fund development for the Masonic Charities of the R.W. Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, which include the Masonic Temple/Library and Museum of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, the Masonic Villages, the Masonic Children’s Home, the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation and the Masonic Charities Fund.

In this new position, Joyce is responsible for annual fundraising programs with regard to individual donors, corporations and Masonic organizations. She is also responsible for donor recognition programs and annual fundraising events, and assists leadership to plan and execute development programs to meet annual and long-term goals of the Masonic Charities.

Joyce Heisey Joyce has been employed with Masonic Village since 1982, most recently as office of gift planning manager.

She is a member of the Senior Care Development Network and the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

She and her husband, Doug, have a son and daughter and reside in Mount Joy. They attend St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Mount Joy. Joyce enjoys spending time at the beach and with family, boating, writing and antique shopping.

Beth A. Bossert, R.N., B.S.N., has been promoted to administrator of health care services for the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Until receiving her nursing home administrator license, she will serve as the assistant administrator for the Masonic Health Care Center.

Beth is responsible for planning, organizing, directing and controlling the operation of health care services. This includes responsibility for the nursing facility, personal care, all outpatient services, hospice and the home care services program.

She has been employed with Masonic Village since 1996, most recently as director of nursing. She is a member of the Pennsylvania Association of Directors of Nursing Administration.

Beth earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Pittsburgh. She resides in Lititz and has one daughter. She attends Grace Brethren Church of Lititz, where she also volunteers.

Joyce A. Heisey, R.N., B.S.N., has been promoted to director of nursing for the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.

Joyce is responsible for providing leadership and support for health promotion and quality health care services to residents, clients, employees and families.

She has been employed with Masonic Village since 1994, most recently as assistant director of nursing/infection control. She is Wound Care Certified by the National Alliance of Wound Care and is a member of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. (APIC) and Central PA APIC. Joyce earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Wichita State University in Kansas.

She and her husband, Spencer, and their two children reside in Elizabethtown. She attends Elizabethtown Brethren in Christ Church and volunteers with the Elizabethtown Boys Club. She enjoys travelling nationally and internationally, reading and gardening.

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The Village Voice • Winter 2011

Staff Spotlight: Carol Benner

A Saving Grace A

fter spending 22 years with the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill and more than 45 years working as a full-time and parttime nurse, Carol Benner, R.N., is ready to see what else life holds.

She is not completely walking away from a field which she considers her savior at a young age. After taking some time for herself, she plans to volunteer at Masonic Village and with other local nonprofits.

“Right now, I’m enjoying sitting at home,” she said, on her first Tuesday off from work. “I feel a little guilty.”

Carol hasn’t had time for much sitting throughout her life, and she doesn’t have plans to do too much of it in retirement.

As a child, Carol participated in Girl Scouts and was active in her church. Through both groups, she visited nursing homes and orphanages, spending time with people who didn’t have as much as her family.

“I’ve always felt the need to take care of people,” she said. “I was taught to give to the poor. My father did a lot of volunteering and set a good example. I thank my parents for the way they raised me.”

Carol graduated from nursing school in 1965. After settling into her career, she married and had two children. At age 26, she found herself suddenly widowed.

She remarried and had a third child. After divorcing her second husband, she returned to college to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology. “It was good to show my children I could go back, and I enjoyed school more as an adult. I was more focused and happy to be there.”

As a single parent, she needed a job close to her home that would afford her time with her children. While working at a hospital, she saw an ad in the newspaper for Masonic Village, known as the Masonic Home of Pennsylvania until 2004. She served as director of personal care for several years.

“I feel really blessed because my job and my children kept me focused and helped me keep my purpose in life. My faith in God has always kept me growing,” Carol said. “When I was widowed, I didn’t expect it. I have two sisters and two brothers who were also there for me. Family is the most important thing in life.”

She found a second family at Masonic Village, especially once her children were grown. Working with the residents and learning about their lives and history have been the best parts of her job.

“We’ve shared so much with each other,” Carol said. “We all work so we can live, but the intangible part I’ll take with me is all the memories of so many residents. They will always be a part of my life.”

She recalls one resident who had a difficult time sharing and opening up to others. “She chose me to share the details of her life,” Carol said. “I felt so special to be her one communicator. I think about moments like that all the time.”

“She is very dependable and caring and she had a good relationship with all the residents,” said Donna Hartnett, director of personal care, and Carol’s co-worker throughout her 22 years at Masonic Village. “She cared about them and they cared about her.”

In her retirement, Carol hopes to have many more learning

experiences, especially through volunteering. She enjoys plants and trees and would like to work outdoors as a guide at the local Morris Arboretum. Another fond memory of Masonic Village was bringing in different plants and tree leaves and discussing them with residents. This past December, she shared holiday poems and stories before a “packed house” of residents. As a volunteer at Masonic Village, she hopes to organize similar activities for the residents.

Her daughter volunteers with a local hospice program and Carol would like to join her. As an avid reader, she also plans to volunteer at the library.

After moving from her home of 37 years, she is still settling into her new townhouse, now that she has the time to unpack. The garden at her former home became overwhelming, but the tiny “secret” garden at her new home is perfect.

“Retirement for me is an opportunity to reorganize my life,” she said, “so I can live better and healthier and focus on wellness and contentment. Each day is a treasure. I won’t be bored for a while.”

Her three children live nearby, as do her four grandchildren, ages 5 to 13. She is lined up to “baby sit,” although she would never consider it a job.

Reflecting on her life, her proudest accomplishment is being a good example as a parent and now a grandparent.

“It wasn’t easy turning my life around from utter despair after the death of my husband to make a normal life for my children,” she said. “Living a good life and being the best you can for everybody is what people remember you for. After hearing residents thank me for being a part of their life, I feel I fulfilled my purpose.

“It has been a great experience for me to be a part of Masonic Village. I’ve met so many people and have so many wonderful memories.”

Above, (l-r) Sally Pichla, accounts receivable coordinator; resident Ellen Michelmore; and Carol Benner at her retirement party on Dec. 30. Left photo, Carol helped with a public relations photo shoot in 2007.

The Village Voice • Winter 2011

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Determining Home care services and adult day services can provide personalized options for you or your loved one.

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wo and a half years ago, Jean Myers, a resident of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, fell and broke her pelvis. Her daughter, Jeannie Ulmer, health information management assistant at the Masonic Village, realized they would have to make some changes to Jean’s living situation, but wanted her mother to remain comfortable in her own home.

“My goal is to keep my mother in her apartment and to maintain her quality of life for as long as possible,” Jeannie said.

Achieving that goal meant enlisting the help of home care aides. More recently, after Jean was diagnosed with dementia, she started going to the Masonic Village’s Adult Daily Living Center three times a week. As the center exceeded the family’s expectations, she began participating at the center five days a week.

“I wanted to cover her with care,” Jeannie said of her mother. “And the day services provided us with a less expensive option than home care. I also felt she might need more interaction and stimulation than what she gets from the home care aides, even though they do a tremendous job with her.”

As the economy continues to fluctuate, people who have cared for their adult relatives or friends at home are faced with new challenges when determining the “next step” for a loved one who requires daily assistance, especially if they must juggle caregiving with a full-time career. Adults in need of care and assistance have many options to consider, often making the decision-making process stressful and confusing. For those not quite ready to make the move to a personal care or nursing residence, alternatives include home care and adult day programs.

According to the National Association for Home Care & Hospice, home care agencies have been around since the 1880s and have grown into a diverse industry of approximately 20,000 providers offering services for 7.6

Jeannie Ulmer and her mother, Jean Myers

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The Village Voice • Winter 2011

million people in the United States. Home care services provide a secure, convenient option for those who want to maintain their freedom and receive individualized services in the comfort of their own home.

Adult day services, like the care offered through the Masonic Village’s Adult Daily Living Center, are on the rise. The Adult Daily Living Center serves adults 18 years of age and older with functional, physical, social or cognitive impairments. It is a cost-effective alternative for those who need structure and support during the day, but are able and prefer to remain living in the comfort of their own home through the support of family members or caregivers. According to the National Adult Day Services Association (NADSA), there are more than 150,000 adults in 4,601 day programs in the United States – a 35 percent increase in programs since 2002.

“In today’s society, caregivers have multiple options, and it is important to explore those opportunities and find the right fit for loved ones. This will enable them to receive services targeted to their unique needs to help them maintain and reach their optimal levels of independence and mental and physical health,” William C. Davis, Jr., chief operating officer – health care services at the Masonic Villages, said.

To help determine which option is right for caregivers and their loved ones, they should ask themselves the following questions: What type of care and services does my loved one need?

An advantage to both adult day services and home care is that the assistance can help individuals to maintain the freedom of living at home.

The Adult Daily Living Center is a medical/health model program which provides the best of two worlds in a safe, secure and structured environment. Clients have opportunities to participate in social and educational activities which enhance their interaction skills and overall well-being.

“We encourage all individuals who attend to participate in our goal-oriented programs to enhance their cognitive, physical and emotional levels.

If you don’t use your skills and knowledge, you start to lose them, so we conduct activities focused on reminiscing such as cooking groups, fine motor skills like ceramics and games, and exercising such as balloon volleyball. Participants have so much fun they don’t even realize

Vickie Brown, ADLC program director (center), dances with Jay Brubaker and Fern Brown at a Hawaiian-themed dance at the Adult Daily Living Center.

they’re exercising their minds and bodies,” Vickie Brown, LPN, program director, said.

Nutritious meals and snacks are provided daily, and the participants occasionally take trips to local restaurants. For people who have difficulty structuring their own daily activities, the center offers amenities such as bathing services and access to a wellness center, therapy pool and hair salon. Professional staff within the Masonic Health Care Center also provide rehabilitation, dental and podiatry services to assist in the management of medical conditions. All of the services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual.

Home care also offers a wide range of services, but on a more individualized level. Home care includes assistance with daily living such as help completing chores, preparing meals, shopping, travelling to appointments or gatherings and many other tasks. Home care nurses can provide a variety of services including post-surgical assistance; help with bathing, eating, exercising or managing incontinence; basic wound care; multiple cognitive and physical assessments; health management; medication administration and much more.

Millie McIntire, a resident of the Masonic Village at Sewickley, was experiencing knee problems but was hesitant to have surgery.

Her husband passed away in January 2010 and her daughter lives nearby, but works full-time and would not be able to help her mother on a daily basis. Millie worried she would face a recovery alone.

She utilized external home care services for her husband in the past, but sometimes found it hard to reach someone. When she learned Masonic Village offered home care services, she felt reassured that help would be there when she needed it, and she went

the Next Step through with the surgery. may be an excellent option since the “It is a wonderful service,” she said. professional caregivers typically work “Whether you need help all day or for an on an hourly basis and can provide 24hour, they are willing to oblige.” hour assistance. If an individual lives Home care aides assisted Millie with alone, this option also provides daily picking up her meals, driving her to doctor flexibility so the individual can receive and rehabilitation appointments, taking as many or as few services as he or she out the trash, buying groceries, washing needs each day. laundry, caring for her cat and other Individuals such as Jean Myers, activities of daily living. sometimes use both options to “The staff work together, so you’re maximize their independence. One always covered,” Millie said. “I couldn’t day, Jean and Jeannie were driving have done it without them.” back to the Adult Daily Living Center Part of the reason she chose to move to after a trip to see the doctor. When Masonic Village in 2006 was the beautiful Jean realized she was headed to the villas and the independent lifestyle, center, she gasped with excitement.

Millie McIntire; her cat, Carley; and Marcia Stover, homemaker “She is a retired nurse, and she looks both of which she maintains thanks to the assistance of home care services. at going to the Adult Daily Living Base rates are not the only item to She is able to continue her busy and happy Center as going to work. She has a strong evaluate. At the Adult Daily Living life including visits to the wellness center desire to interact with others and to help Center, funding may be available for bus three days a week, social events and church people,” Jeannie said. “I know my mother is transportation, but caregivers are encouraged services. to provide their own transportation to and from enjoying the center.”

The path to maintaining a high quality the center. Other adult day services charge a What type of atmosphere are we seeking? of life for those needing daily assistance flat fee for transportation.

Adult day services are ideal for people looks different for everyone, and ultimately, To provide the best care possible, who are isolated and desire companionship. caregivers and their loved ones must make the additional services, such as hair care and Staff typically incorporate opportunities to decision that is best for their particular needs various therapies, often are not included in interact with others through creative daily and circumstances. For more information and the daily rate. Talk to program directors to programming, naturally creating strong bonds determine your loved one’s needs and to assistance, visit www.masonicvillagespa.org of friendship between the participants and or contact: evaluate how those needs will impact the with the staff. The Adult Daily Living Center overall cost. is strategically designed to create a home-like, • The Outreach Program, for services family atmosphere while still offering the How much time will I need help caring for statewide, at (800) 462-7664, at opportunity to receive certain medical services my loved one?

(717) 361-5080 or at outreach@ within the center and the adjoining health care masonicvillagespa.org.

Finally, the amount of time your loved center. one will need to receive care may affect your • The Adult Daily Living Center, a service For Mary Ann Sugar, who has attended choice of services. Based on the averages of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, the center for nine years, participating in listed above, after three hours of receiving at (717) 361-5353. some of her favorite activities such as the home care services at $19 per hour, it costs • Masonic Village at Elizabethtown music program, ceramics and the worship about the same amount as eight to 10 hours of Home Care Services at (717) 367-1121, gatherings has helped her to build friendships care through an adult day services program. ext. 33700 or 33725, or HomeCare@ and learn how to interact with many different Maintaining the role of primary caregiver masonicvillagespa.org. types of people. “Mary Ann absolutely loves is not a possibility for many people with other it. She wants to live here at the village,” said • Masonic Village at Sewickley Home Care life obligations. According to “The Wall Street Kathy Sugar, Mary Ann’s sister and a health Services at (412) 741-1400, ext. 3096, or Journal,” for the 65 million unpaid family information/unit assistant at the Masonic MVShomecare@masonicvillagespa.org. caregivers in the United States, scheduling Village. “This gives Mary Ann her own life • The Administration Office at the Masonic times for respite are essential to maintaining and independence.”

Village at Dallas at (570) 675-1866 for a the energy to care for a loved one.

Home care is ideal for people seeking onebrochure detailing community home care “Caregivers who have loved ones on-one personalized care and services in the service providers. participating at the Adult Daily Living Center privacy and comfort of their own home. It is benefit as much as our clients because they • Lisa Kallish, social services coordinator, typically a less structured environment and can take care of the areas of their life that need Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, at services may change along with the client’s attending to while their loved one is having (610) 825-6100, ext. 1214, for a list of needs. fun and growing as a person,” Vickie said. local home care and adult day service Participants can stay at the Adult Daily What is the best financial fit for my family? providers.

Living Center all day long, up to five days a According to MetLife Mature Market week. The program also provides caregiver Institute®, adult day services for eight to 10 support and a caregiver support group which hours per day can range from $37 - $87 a day meets monthly. in Pennsylvania, with an average rate of about If an adult prefers services or care during $56.50 per day. Depending on the care and the day that can be accomplished in several services desired, home care services can range hours, or if he or she needs assistance outside from $10 to $29 per hour in Pennsylvania, of typical work hours, home care services with an average rate of about $19 per hour.

The Village Voice • Winter 2011

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Sharing Your Story Y

ou may not realize it, but tucked inside the crevices of your mind lay invaluable treasures. Residents of the Masonic Villages have discovered writing is one method of uncovering these “treasures,” and sharing them with others.

Melanie G. Snyder, writer, speaker and trainer from Lancaster, Pa., recently hosted three sessions, titled “Capture Your Life’s Stories,” for a total of 45 residents at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Originally scheduled as one session with six openings, this lifelong learning program was expanded due to its popular demand.

The idea of writing down the details and memories of a life spanning several decades may seem like a daunting task, but when broken up into simple activities, you may discover it is an easily manageable and rewarding experience.

“I start by encouraging people to focus on one story or one time period,” Melanie said. “One way I ask them to start is to pull out a coin, look at the year and recall where they were that year, their age, what they were doing and other memories of that one year.”

She also employs sensory triggers to help people recall memories.

It may be an old photograph, the sound of a familiar tune or even the mention of a popular medication.

“You would be surprised by the reaction I get from people when I say ‘Vicks VapoRub,’” Melanie said. “It conjures up strong memories.”

Jeanne Zell, a former English teacher and family therapist who now instructs residents of the Masonic Village at Sewickley in personal journaling, asks participants to focus on one word and spend the next five minutes writing whatever comes to mind. The word could be anything from “lipstick” to “water” to the phrase “I remember.”

“Words lead you in,” she said, “and then people recognize they have an engaging story. They find their voice and their rich material.”

Jeanne has three rules for writing: 1. Trust yourself.

2. Honor whatever it is you write.

3. Do it your way.

Once the first story is shared, Melanie encourages people to fill a binder with paper and write each year they have been alive on a separate piece. As they recall memories, they can write them down and add more paper when needed. Additional sensory triggers that may bring memories to the surface include looking through photo albums; smelling certain foods, perfumes or other scents; or tasting a piece of old-fashioned hard candy.

Those who may not feel their grammar skills are up to par can also succeed in capturing their story. “Someone else can edit the final version, but you’re the only one who can tell your story,” Melanie said. “See if a friend can record you telling your story.”

“I never thought I could write,” Sewickley resident Marjorie Anderson said. She has participated in the personal journaling class for several years. “I found that writing about my family was not only rewarding, but a most pleasant experience. One memory put down on paper led to another memory, and before I knew it, a good part of my history was on paper and

Jeanne Zell, center, leads a personal journaling class in Sewickley.

Participants include (l-r) Mary Bender, Margie Reid, Carleen Dukstein, Delores Brosi, Marjorie Anderson and Betsy Jevon.

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The Village Voice • Winter 2011

then placed in a folder – a beautiful gift for my three children.”

Adding captions to photos, writing about a single memorable event or writing letters to grandchildren about what life was like before they were born are other approaches Melanie recommends. Online book publishers have opened up new opportunities for people looking to have their stories bound and printed.

When Jeanne began her class several years ago, more than 20 people signed up. About seven have continued to share their writings through the years. “It’s like a support group,” she said. “There is acceptance, laughter, generosity and courage. We’ve had tears at times. It’s therapeutic, but not therapy.”

Melanie G. Snyder Angela Hurst, director of recreation at the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, conducts a monthly creative writing for residents in the nursing care area. Between six and eight participants write about a specific topic, such as love poems in February, and then share their thoughts.

“The residents benefit from being able to reminisce and working on their cognitive level,” she said.

Jeanne cites researcher James W. Pennebaker, a psychologist and linguist, who has found writing about emotional upheavals can improve physical and mental health. It can decrease blood pressure and increase T-cells, which protect people against disease by eliminating cancerous cells and those infected with viruses and bacteria, and in turn, may reduce trips to the doctor.

“It helps us figure out what’s going on inside,” Jeanne said, “but it’s not just cathartic. It gets us to a healing place. My ‘students’ have certainly experienced difficulties and losses, but they have not chosen to go in that direction. They’re copers, doers and survivors. Many of them are retired professionals who have lived through a time when problems were solved.”

After discovering a spelling error on 25,000 envelopes his employer printed, L.F. McArthur, of Elizabethtown, developed a reputation as a technical writer throughout his career. “I always felt I could write things I had to write,” he said. Many people shared with him that he told great stories and encouraged him to try personal writing. Once he eased into “not working” (or retirement, as some people call it), he considered writing, but didn’t sit down and do it until about 12 years ago.

“My wife was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and for the first few years, I went through various moods,” he said. “I started keeping a journal of significant events in her care and treatment. The purpose was personal therapy for me. I got things off my chest.

“After I moved her into a nursing home, I realized I was alone for the first time in my life. I had seven years of this caregiver journal which I decided to type up. It is about a half-inch thick. I still can’t handle reading much of it in one sitting. I would like to finish what I started and publish it, I just need some discipline. And I wonder if there will be a reader.”

One of the most important lessons Melanie imparts is that everyone’s story is worth sharing. She enjoys reading others’ stories and finds participants often make an unexpected connection with someone in their writing group.

“I hope people walked out of my sessions feeling the stories of their lives matter and are important enough to document, even if only for themselves,” she said. “I really believe everyone has many stories worthy of being told.

“As just one example, I often think of the number of World War II veterans who are dying every day, and the huge piece of our country’s history that goes with them.”

“When the class meets each week, we choose a subject to write Sharing Your Story continued on p. 13

A Hymn of Gratitude R

obert Carwithen’s talents as an organist, conductor, carillonneur, church musician, composer/arranger and performer have taken him around the world. His music has echoed through church chambers, resounded among the ears of thousands of visitors at the World’s Fair and reverberated throughout the racks of a famous department store. His teachings have enlightened and influenced countless students who now carry on the results of his instruction and enthusiasm for the art of music-making.

A resident of the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, Robert has enjoyed a fulfilling life and the gifts he has been given. Guided by his belief that “every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights,” he now concentrates on nurturing the careers of other blossoming musicians through the Robert Carwithen Music Foundation (RCMF).

“There are no accidents,” he said. “I didn’t have anything growing up. God blessed my life, and now I want to give back to Him what so generously He has given to me.”

During the Depression, as a child, Robert’s parents could not afford to care for him, and he was adopted into a Methodist minister’s family.

Finding himself frequently in church, he began exploring the organ and piano, sparking a lifelong interest. He discovered he had a good ear and could play both instruments well.

Robert graduated from the Curtis Institute of Music, Philadelphia, with a bachelor’s degree in organ and piano, and had the privilege to study organ with Dr. Alexander McCurdy and piano with Vladimir Sokoloff. He then went on to Westminster Choir College, Princeton, N.J., and earned a master’s degree in choral conducting. As a scholar, he also studied under internationally renowned organists Madeleine Duruflé-Chevalier and André Isoir in Paris; Xavier Darasse in Toulouse, France; and Virgil Fox at the Riverside Church in New York City.

Robert pursued his passion, teaching organ and courses in theory, improvisation, French Romantic and French Classical organ literature for 42 years at Westminster Choir College. He also served as conductor of the world-renowned Westminster Symphonic Choir from 1966-1971, which included preparing the 200-member choir for notable conductors Leopold Stokowski, Leonard Bernstein, Eugene Ormandy and others. For 10 years, he headed the organ department at Philadelphia Biblical University in Langhorne, Pa. A stern but fair instructor, Robert doesn’t claim to be every one of his student’s favorite, but he still hears from some of them. His inspiration and guidance has led them throughout the world, sharing their talents at the organ and conducting choirs.

During his teaching career, Robert served as a church musician for 37 years, holding posts at several Presbyterian churches in Philadelphia.

For two years, he was the organist for the world’s largest operational pipe organ at Wanamaker’s (now Macy’s) department store in Philadelphia.

He was also an accompanist for various groups performing at the Academy of Music in Philadelphia and at the Lincoln Center, Town Hall and Carnegie Hall in New York City.

As music director and recording artist for Schulmerich Carillons, Inc., he was the carillonneur for the World’s Fair in Brussels (1958), Seattle (1962) and New York (1965). A carillon is a musical instrument, usually housed in a free-standing bell tower or the belfry of a church or other municipal building, consisting of at least 25 cast bronze cup-shaped bells, which are played serially to form a melody, or sounded together to play a chord. It is played by striking a keyboard with your fists and by pressing the keys of a pedal keyboard with your feet.

The RCMF began in 1985 when the First Presbyterian Church in Germantown set up a scholarship fund to honor Robert for 25 years of service. It has grown, now, as friends have contributed to it and Robert has donated earnings from choral and organ workshops, pipe organ recitals and his salary.

The RCMF, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is designed to further the musical education of students who are studying organ, piano, guitar, voice or conducting at a college/university or privately, with the intent of committing themselves in assisting a church congregation’s musical program; composers who are committed to composing solos, anthems, cantatas, oratorios or chamber works for church use; organ soloists whose work advances the position of the pipe organ as an integral part of the orchestra, either as soloist or as an ensemble member; and organizations such as chamber music groups and churches for the employment of musical groups.

Currently, the RCMF gives out small awards; however, at Robert’s passing, all interest from the principal fund will continue to be distributed to qualified applicants.

Robert wants to see students’ lives freed by scholarships so they may pursue opportunities of study, education and practice that would not be available without financial assistance. A new Web site with application information for the RCMF will be launched in 2011.

“I was granted so much help by so many people,” Robert said. “I believe the reason I’m still here is to finish the work for my Foundation.”

In February 2010, he moved to the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill.

“I love it here,” he said. “I couldn’t ask for a better place to live and enjoy.

The staff is terrific. I brought my music, library, choral arrangements and recordings to my new home. In time it is my hope that I’ll start playing the organ and piano again.

“I thank God for the gifts He has given me: that I am able to work at making the Foundation the best ever and that I may be useful and helpful, in a loving way, to my neighbors and friends at the Masonic Village.”

The Village Voice • Winter 2011

9

Village (Left) Helen Osterling and (right) Natalie Stalling hand out Halloween treats to some friendly princesses in Sewickley.

Lafayette Hill residents Charles and Norma Leis (left) and Louisa West, administrative assistant, with Cia and Howard Mack (right) celebrated Halloween with a bowling party.

For the seventh year, youth from the Masonic Children’s Home got in the Halloween spirit with a party organized by the Student Nurses Association of Pennsylvania (SNAP) at Penn State Hershey Medical Center.

Left, cowboy Al Robb and cowgirl Lorraine Cook go for a twirl at Elizabethtown’s Costume Ball. Right, Kirk Rakos, therapeutic recreation supervisor, greets Libby Rothgaber.

In November, members of the Order of the Eastern Star visited residents in Warminster and brought some clowns along. Left, Sara Barsky looks lovely with her balloon flower and hat, and right, Eleanor Bauer and Ruth Abbott also model balloon creations.

Jack Hubley brought some furry, scaly and feathered friends, all native to Pennsylvania, for residents in Elizabethtown to learn about and see up close.

For the second year, residents of Dallas baked cookies for the Dallas Township fire and ambulance, as well as a local soup kitchen. Shown (l-r) are Rita Zampetti, Barbara Lodwick, Annie Smith, Annie Bisher, Thelma Smith and Connie Sclafani.

Rabbi Shaya Sackett, of the Congregation Pegal Israel, led residents in Elizabethtown in a blessing during the Feast of the Tabernacles, also called Booths, a Jewish holiday celebrated on the 15th day of the month of Tishrei (late September to late October).

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The Village Voice • Winter 2011

The Order of the Eastern Star’s Great Pumpkin Festival in October, held at Lafayette Hill, raised close to $7,000 for the Masonic Villages through raffles and the sale of baked goods and crafts. Many thanks to all residents, staff and OES members who helped with the event. Left, Bob and Cathy Wentz with the basket they won, and right, June Maag and Inez Twesten.

Sewickley’s Master Mason’s Club took residents from the Star Points personal care residence and Valley Care Masonic Center out for breakfast in October.

Shown (l-r) are Rev. Tim Reichard, director of pastoral care; Hank Graham; Deane Hillegass; and Tracy Miller.

Happenings Volunteers Mildred Beamer, Sara Phillips and Dotty Lenker help at the traveling clothing store which stopped at Elizabethtown’s Masonic Health Care Center.

Lafayette Hill residents raised more than $5,000 for Masonic Village at their fall bazaar. Above left, Norman Day sells handmade wooden lawn ornaments.

Right, Mary Benjamin and Marge English display clothing for sale.

To conclude the centennial celebration in Elizabethtown, a 1910 fashion show and a “1910 Revisited - Looking Back in Time” event took visitors on a time travel to see how people lived in the early 20th century. Exhibits and demonstrations included antique farm equipment, steam engines and antique automobiles; apple butter tasting; and apple cider making. Residents also enjoyed a themed dinner.

Top left, Art and Emily Youse admire a Model A Ford from 1930. Top right, Erdean Ross, Lynn Garberich, Chester Derk, John Townsend and Hayden Libhart, server, at dinner. Left, models Linda Schod and David Keesey show off the fashions of the time.

At their annual Splash Bash in August, residents from the Masonic Children’s Home enjoyed a water balloon fight, sand art, a water slide, sports, carnival games, delicious food and the company of friends and family. Above, Thea Bert paints the face of Autumn Schmitt.

Lafayette Hill’s annual Harvest Ball was held Nov. 18. Order of the Eastern Star members donated gowns for each female resident, and a local Mary Kay representative provided makeup. Volunteers from Plymouth Whitemarsh High School and Blue Cross/ Blue Shield also helped with the festivities. Residents were given a corsage or a boutonniere, and received a framed photo of themselves. The event featured music, hot and cold hors d’oeuvres and an elegant dinner. Special thanks to all staff and volunteers who contributed to this wonderful evening. Shown in top photo are Edna Armstrong and Alice Eggler, and bottom photo, Ruth Kiefer.

Eight candidates from Sewickley were made Masons through the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania’s One Day Masonic Journey in New Castle on Oct. 30. Six men were residents from retirement living and two were staff members. Shown (l-r) are the new Masons and their mentors: Leon Whipple*; Tracy Miller; Eric Phillis; Duane Combs*; Ray Stevens; Bill Chickos, security officer*; John Ferguson*; Henry Shockey (back)*; Micah Ed, busperson*; Tom Robertson (back)*; Nick Tisak; Walter Borsett (back)*; Charles Paisley; Dwyane Watts (back); Deane Hillegass; David Rihl (installed as Worshipful Master of Doric Lodge No. 630 on Dec. 9); Bill Hanwell; and Merle Conrad, transportation driver (back). * indicates a new Mason.

Warminster’s dining room was recently transformed into the SS Masonic, complete with shipboard decorations. Residents and staff dressed for the occasion, and entertainment included dancing and singing. Shown left, Doris Rogers and Jane Hornberger pose with Captain James Coyne, director of environmental services.

USO Tribute Show

At the 2nd Annual USO Tribute Show in November, Elizabethtown residents performed various musical and comedy acts and shared personal stories, poetry and prose. Left, Dick Cherry; center, Sassy Steppers Rita Warrick, Shirley Sinclair, Justine Kern, Dorothy Tarby, Peggy Adams and Linda Schod perform to “The Trolley Song;” and right, Larry Goodling on the piano accompanies Mary Ensminger. The event also raised more than $500 for the PA/NJ Chapter of the Liberty USO and the many programs it sponsors for military personnel.

The Village Voice • Winter 2011

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Holiday Happenings At Elizabethtown’s Festival of Lights, residents, staff, volunteers and visitors voted on their favorites out of more than a dozen trees on display in the Masonic Health Care Center. Left, resident Emmeline Narehood enjoys the festival with her daughter-in-law, Barbara, and son, Dennis.

At their annual holiday party at the Irem Country Club, residents in Dallas enjoyed delicious food and good company. Shown above left are Al and Peggy Exter, and right, Bob and Thelma Smith.

Santa and his helper, Betty Lou Waters, handed out goodies to children from the Masonic Child Care Center in Elizabethtown.

Residents celebrated the season at Sewickley’s annual Cocktails with Santa party. Left, Don Brainerd and Chuck Paisley, and right, Rose Smith shares a smile with Santa.

At Elizabethtown’s annual Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Packing Party in November, residents filled 186 boxes with donated gifts. They also raised $887 toward shipping costs. Right photo, John Gregson and Madeline Sands collected monetary donations. The shoeboxes were sent to children around the world. Operation Christmas Child is coordinated by Samaritan’s Purse, a humanitarian organization which meets the spiritual and physical needs of people suffering from war, poverty, disaster, disease, famine and persecution worldwide. The Congregation of Sell Chapel also donated $2,360 in offerings toward Samaritan’s Purse.

In Dallas, residents, including Bud Beecham, Keith Smith and Ned Hartman, gathered for a tree trimming and cookie exchange.

Cookies were also given to a local soup kitchen.

Santa paid a visit to residents in Lafayette Hill, including Geraldine Pendelton and Dorothy Willig, shown to the right.

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The Village Voice • Winter 2011

Employees from Yellowbook stopped by to make gingerbread houses with residents in Lafayette Hill.

Right, Merle Glazier and Ellen Michelmore team up on their house.

Residents and staff in Warminster celebrated the season together with a party.

Top photo, Catherine Burns and Fayetta Rice greet a special guest. Bottom photo, Jim Standish, member of the Committee on Masonic Homes, with Santa and William Sayres.

The Masonic Children’s Home residents and staff celebrated the holidays with a church service and dinner at Hoss’s.

Shown right, Jaime Placeway, educational tutor, and Veronica Vega.

Elizabethtown residents, including Tommy Huber (right), rang in 2011 with The Gentlemen of Jazz, noisemakers and refreshments.

Helen Herbert, of Sewickley, received a special holiday gift from Bunkey, a visiting Shriner clown.

The Sky is the Limit with Ceiling Art Residents’ talents bring color and comfort to Masonic Health Care Center

M

embers of the Resident Art Association in Elizabethtown come from a variety of backgrounds. Whether they are picking up a paint brush for the first time or enjoying a lifelong hobby, they learn from one another and work together to produce beautiful paintings, glassware, tiles and other art. Recently, they were given the opportunity to use their skills to bring fulfilment to others at Masonic Village.

Through the Masonic Villages’ Wish List, staff of the Masonic Health Care Center in Elizabethtown requested ceiling panels featuring ocean, sky and other soothing images for residents who are bed-bound. The tiles cost upwards of $215 each.

Realizing the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown has a wealth of talented residents, Brenda Van Deursen, executive assistant for the executive director, contacted the Resident Art Association and asked if they’d be willing to paint the ceiling tiles. Joe McIntyre, president, was more than happy to help with the project. Masonic Village covered the cost of blank ceiling tiles and the Art Association used its own paints and supplies to decorate them. Members pay annual dues of $12, and sell their wares at Autumn Day and other open houses to cover the cost of materials. They donate remaining funds to local and Masonic charities.

For this project, Joe encouraged resident artists to paint whatever they desired. Initially, staff requested ocean and sky scenes, but the artists used their imaginations and created landscapes, floral designs, hot air balloons and many other scenes.

“Everyone enjoyed it,” he said. “It was a good project, and we really got into it. We’ll continue to paint the tiles as long as they need them.”

According to Vicki Gillmore, executive director, the tiles provide a more pleasant viewing experience for residents who look up at the ceiling frequently. They may also stimulate memories. Doctors and dentists use them to decrease stress and anxiety for patients undergoing procedures. About a dozen tiles have been installed in the suites of several residents and common areas in the Masonic Health Care Center, including the tranquility room, where residents go to relax.

“The residents and staff think they’re wonderful,” Bernadine Hilsher, nurse manager, Washington 4 neighborhood, said of the tiles. “They really add to the neighborhood. Residents can recline and look at the tiles and it takes them to another place Tiles painted by Joan Dellinger. where they recall different memories. I think it’s great residents on campus were able to do something like this for their peers.”

“Our Mission of Love, our Eden Alternative® philosophy of giving care as well as receiving it, and our entire culture of helping others is part of the significance of residents helping other residents,” Vicki said.

Prior to the Resident Art Association becoming involved in the project, Elizabethtown residents Edith and Howard Kane made a contribution to purchase several of the tiles for the Wish List. They were thrilled to hear the money will go toward the in-house project.

“We were moved to tears when we saw the first tiles that were completed,” Vicki said. “They are so beautiful and thoughtful.”

The Resident Art Association is also working on painting simulated decorative windows which add color and cheer to windowless areas of the Lafayette neighborhoods, home to residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias.

To view the Masonic Villages’ Wish List, please visit www.masonicvillagespa.org or contact the Office of Gift Planning at (800) 599-6454.

Joe McIntyre with a tile painted by Lilly Campbell.

Sharing Your Story

continued from p. 8

about,” Marjorie said. “We share what we have written. It is amazing to hear the variety of incidents that are revealed by all the members of the class. It emphasizes that everyone has a story and everyone can write, given encouragement and some writing suggestions.”

Several Elizabethtown residents expressed interest in additional sessions with Melanie which go into greater depth. One shared enthusiasm in starting a weekly group, so as their stories progress, they can share and help edit each other’s work.

“Some of the residents are really digging their heels in,” L.F. said. “I think we realize, someday, we won’t be here to tell our story.”

In Warminster, Trisha Lamb, activities director, started a project called “Tell My Story.” She handed out questionnaires to residents which ask simple questions, such as “Where you were you born and raised?” and “What would you like to do that you never had the chance to do?” She’ll put the completed stories together in a booklet for residents to see and share with one another.

“It will be a good way for them to learn about each other,” Trisha said. “For those with memory impairment, it will refresh them with details of their life and of their resident friends. So far, there has been a lot of interest.”

Residents of the Masonic Village at Dallas can discover their inner writer through neighboring Misericordia University’s Center for Adult and Continuing education. They can choose from an array of personal enrichment non-credit classes. Though the Senior Fellows Program each semester, residents also have the opportunity to audit select liberal arts and science courses.

“Telling our stories is an ancient cure,” Jeanne said. “We are storytellers – going back to writing on the walls of caves to late night sharing around campfires or kitchen tables. It’s about connection.”

“As responsible adults, most of us make sure we have a Will to take care of what should become of our tangible possessions,” Melanie said. “The much more valuable possessions we have are our stories. Few of us have recorded documents of our life stories. Treat your history and the stories of people and places in your life as equally valuable as china, jewelry or money. For your family, your stories are your legacy.”

L.F. McArthur

The Village Voice • Winter 2011

13

by J. Kenneth Brubaker, M.D., C.M.D., medical director, Masonic Village at Elizabethtown

What is Essential Tremor?

E

ssential tremor is the most common neurological disorder found in the older adult population. It affects between 1 and 5 percent of adults over 60 years of age and occurs with the same frequency among men and women. It is a slow progressive disorder which presents initially with involuntary movements during activities, but eventually will occur at rest.

A patient will commonly bring his or her concern of a tremor to the physician’s attention when the tremor progresses to the point where he/she is embarrassed eating with friends. The increased movement of the tremor commonly causes food to fall off the spoon while eating. Other common complaints with essential tremor include having difficulty threading a needle and writing neatly.

The term essential tremor is frequently referred to as intention tremor or benign familial tremor. Intention tremor is easy to appreciate since the name describes the type of tremor: a tremor that is worse with intentional movements of an upper extremity. This tremor usually manifests itself with activities such as eating. The name benign familial tremor describes the tremor as being hereditary. Very commonly patients with essential tremor will inform their physician that tremors run in their families.

What is the underlying cause of essential tremor? Familial forms of the tremor have been linked to regions of several chromosomes. To date, there is not appreciation of the underlying cause of the non-familial type of tremor. The only known risk factor for essential tremor is age. It is believed the tremor is due to abnormal communication between the cerebellum, thalamus and brain stem.

This neurological disorder presents with involuntary movements, usually of the hands and forearms. However, the shakiness can spread to other parts of the body such as the jaw, chin, tongue, legs, neck and head.

The tremor is often slightly worse in one arm than in the other. The degree of shakiness is quite variable, and the tremor disappears when the arms are relaxed, such as sitting with the hands in the lap or when standing or walking with arms held at the side.

Essential tremor is usually worse with emotional stress, probably related to increased adrenaline secretion, which commonly occurs with anxiety and depression. Essential tremor is also exacerbated with increased physical activity. It is very similar to the tremor one may experience when doing very hard physical labor, especially in someone whose muscles aren’t accustomed to physical labor. Other contributing factors which can make this tremor worse include caffeine, cold weather and drugs such as lithium.

It is very important to avoid confusing essential tremor with the tremor associated in Parkinson’s disease. One of the differentiating characteristics is the Parkinson’s disease tremor usually presents at rest and improves with activity, which is just the opposite of essential tremor.

What can make it more confusing to the patient and physician is the fact that both tremors are worse with emotional and physical stress. Further complicating the diagnosis is recognizing that some Parkinson’s disease patients will also experience essential tremor.

In addition, other conditions can present like essential tremor.

Alcohol withdrawal, hyperthyroidism, smoking and an adrenal tumor (pheochromocytoma) all are associated with a tremor which can look like essential tremor. Thus, it is important the family physician eliminates other causes of the presenting tremor.

When a person has been diagnosed with essential tremor, the most common question is, “Is there any effective treatment for this neurological condition?” There are medications recommended for treatment of essential tremor; however, most physicians will not recommend early treatment unless the tremor interferes with one’s quality of life. Medications may have adverse side effects which are more severe in older adults.

When appropriate, initial pharmacologic therapy includes drugs like atenolol and propranolol. This class of medications is relatively benign and is also used for hypertension and heart disease. Another class of medications to treat essential tremor includes primidone, gabapentin and topiramate. This group of medications is more commonly used for seizure disorders. The response to all of these drugs is variable, and the tremor is rarely reduced to the point of elimination. Of all medications mentioned, primidone and propranolol are considered first-line treatments.

The International Essential Tremor Foundation promotes research with the goal of having a better understanding of the underlying cause of essential tremor. Increased understanding of this disorder will enable researchers to develop more effective treatment and prevention of this disease. For more information about this foundation, visit www.essentialtremor.org.

Rehab Services Include Short-term Orthopedic

R

esidents and community members can now take advantage of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown’s new Inpatient Orthopedic Short-term Rehabilitation Program. This program is in addition to the general short-term inpatient rehab services Masonic Village has provided for many years to patients recovering from an illness or stroke.

Orthopedic rehab services specifically help you regain your maximum mobility after a hospital stay, surgery, broken bone, joint replacement or other bone-related injury. These services assist in building your strength, mobility and endurance so you can return to your home on or off campus. Individualized medical, therapeutic, educational and support services help increase your independence.

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The Village Voice • Winter 2011

The orthopedic rehab program also offers: • Daily visits with a specially-trained nurse to manage your care • Private rooms • Expanded menu and room service • State-of-the-art therapy equipment and rehabilitation technology • Professional case management and discharge planning • Home and community skills training To learn more or apply for the Inpatient Orthopedic Short-term Rehabilitation Program, please contact the Marketing and Outreach Office at (717) 361-4552 or (800) 422-1207, or online at www.masonicvillagespa.org.

Your Estate Plan (Third of a four-part series)

by Alvin H. Blitz, chief director of gift planning

Why You Should Consider a General Power of Attorney

A

general Durable Power of Attorney (durable meaning the document is effective even if you are incapacitated) is probably the most important estate planning instrument available. It is used to appoint someone to handle your financial affairs as opposed to your medical needs.

Without a Durable Power of Attorney, if you should become incapacitated, no one can represent you except a court-appointed guardian. Not only is the process for appointing a guardian on your behalf expensive, time consuming and, in some cases, adversarial, but the person appointed may be someone you do not want in that position.

Furthermore, guardianship requires court supervision, thereby limiting what an appointed guardian can do on your behalf without the court’s permission.

The person appointing someone to act on his or her behalf is commonly referred to as the “principal” and the person who is appointed by the principal is generally named the “attorney-in-fact” or “agent.”

A Power of Attorney can be broad in purpose or limited in scope.

Generally, the Power of Attorney for your estate plan is very broad in scope so the person you appoint to act on your behalf has all the powers and rights you have yourself. For instance, most Powers of Attorney permit your agent to sign checks, buy and sell stocks and real estate, and even employ professional advisors on your behalf. For this reason, you must be careful to select someone you believe you can fully trust.

Recently, the Pennsylvania Joint State Government Commission issued a Power of Attorney Reform Report calling for changes in the law to address misconduct and abuses by agents attempting to enrich themselves or benefit those close to them. Abusive acts generally are done through unauthorized gifts by an agent or through altering the estate plan of the person for whom they were appointed to take care of.

These changes, if adopted, would limit an agent’s ability to make gifts or revise a person’s estate plan except under specific circumstances.

Your Power of Attorney is revocable at any time, provided you are competent. You should retain your Power of Attorney until needed by your appointed agent and consider keeping it in a safe place where it is readily available by you or your lawyer to give to your agent.

If you do not feel you have someone trustworthy to appoint as your agent, you may want to consider executing a limited Power of Attorney, nominating a person to handle your affairs through guardianship. This way, a court will supervise the person appointed as guardian on your behalf.

The process of choosing your agent for your Power of Attorney should not be taken lightly. The person you choose could have the greatest control over your life should you eventually become incapacitated or need help handling your affairs. If you cannot trust a friend or relative to serve as your agent, consider talking to one of your professional advisors to serve in this role or appointing a financial institution. Be aware, though, many professional advisors are prohibited from serving as your advisor for conflict of interest purposes. Financial institutions are a good resource to consider provided you are comfortable with an organization handling your affairs rather than an individual.

Do not procrastinate on completing your Power of Attorney. The consequences could have a significant impact on your health and welfare at any time should a life-changing event happen to you.

If you would like further information on choosing an agent for your Power of Attorney, finding a professional advisor to assist you in preparing your Power of Attorney, or would like to personally discuss any other issues pertaining to a Power of Attorney, please complete and return the enclosed business reply envelope or contact me at (800) 599-6454.

If you are having difficulty choosing an agent to handle your financial affairs, the following factors should be considered: 1. Age - either your primary choice or successor should be someone fit (both physically and mentally) to carry out your affairs.

Your spouse may be a natural first choice, but a successor should be a younger person who could step in to take over if needed.

2. Trust - you must pick someone you trust. This takes time and may be a difficult decision. It is imperative to make every effort to get to know someone you believe you can trust and, if necessary, do some investigating on the credibility of the person you choose.

3. Financial Management Skills - make sure the person you pick understands how to manage finances; otherwise, your wealth could be squandered away.

4. Comfort - try to pick someone you are comfortable with; otherwise, you could end up with someone you personally dislike controlling your affairs.

5. Amount of Control - talk to your attorney about how much control over your affairs you should give your agent. You may want to consider choosing more than one agent or require approval of an additional person for crucial decisions.

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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Memorial Gifts August 1 - October 31, 2010 Below is a list of individuals (names are shown in red) whose loved ones have made a gift in their memory to one of the five Masonic Villages located at Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill, Sewickley or Warminster.

Great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of the names listed below. We regret any errors or omissions.

If an error has been made, please contact the Office of Gift Planning at (800) 599-6454, (717) 367-1121, ext. 33003, or by e-mailing giving@masonicvillagespa.org. Thank you.

Firman H. Abdill Firman H. Abdill, IV John H. Abel Leon E. Abel Marilyn Ace Robert F. Ace Gary J. Allshouse Chartiers Lodge No. 297 Matthew A. Amend Robert W. Amend James L. Anderson, Sr. Doris G. Anderson Wayne T. Anderson B. Howard Fyock William B. Ansley, Jr. Juniata Lodge No. 282 George Joseph Armstrong Joseph M. Armstrong Marian Arndt Edward J. Arndt Bonita R. “Bonnie” Ashe William F. Ashe Alfred Asheuer Lester R. Worthington, Jr. Bruce W. Augustine Gail P. Augustine Robert L. Averell Barbara A. Averell Russell R. Aylor Charlotte H. Aylor Harriet Z. Bachman Allen S. Zimmerman Anna K. Bailey William A. Bailey George E. Baker, Sr. George E. Baker, Jr. Nettie M. Balsley George J. Balsley Donald W. Banzhof Patricia A. Ruth Edwin A. Barnes Mildred J. Barnes Robert K. and Anna Mae (Greiner) Bartholomew Robert C. Greiner Daniel E. Barto William J. Clayton Maurice F. Menefee, Jr. Geraldine Baumeister Jack L. Baumeister Harry A. Beerbower Juniata Lodge No. 282 Robert H. Benson Joan Benson Betty James Moir Harry W. Beyer Marie E. Beyer Bruce G. Bistline, Sr. Bruce G. Bistline, Jr. Dewitt B. Blank Joyce N. Billetdeaux

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Sam Gozion Nancy L. Mansfield Constance Plate Helen Stefanik Stephen J. Storkel William E. Bogart Shirley M. Achuff Foster J. Bonnell, Sr. Ruth Bonnell Charles Borie Harry and Joan Borie James E. Stevenson, III Edwin M. Bosworth Evelyn J. Bosworth George and Blanche Boyer Dominick Cuono John E. Bradley Phyllis M. Bradley Herman Braman Hackenburg Mount Moriah Lodge No. 19 Norman R. Bricker, Jr. Janet L. Bricker Robert H. Bromley Southampton Square Club Jeffrey James Brubaker David Sims Francis A. Burkett Grace E. Burkett George H. Burt Charles and Betty Astfalk Frank W. Busch, Sr. Frank W. Busch, Jr. Josephine A. Campagna Friendship Chapter No. 551, O.E.S. Carl A. Carbone Anne R. Carbone Lester and Emma Carpenter John and Sandra Lescisko Jacob G. Carson Helen K. Carson Earl Catherman Betty-Jayne Catherman Jean H. Clugh Cecelia Baldwin Joyce A. Buerk Julie A. Cassel Robert S. Dunn Joseph Jaeger and Family David B. Lutz Monmouth Medical Center – Department of Academic Affairs Gaye M. Turpin Margaret D. Coates James R. Heckman John A. Coburn, Jr. Darlene Coburn Ralph L. Cohen Shirley S. Rowley Val and Mary Colaluca Dante G. Colaluca

The Village Voice • Winter 2011

Gary N. Cole Dorothy A. Cole Alfred C. Colmer, Jr. Juanita M. Colmer Oliver H. Condran, Sr. Jeffrey J. Condran Laura Conner Samuel and Virgnia Cameron Dorothy E. Corlett Harry P. Millinghausen Barbara E. Shields Clyde C. Cotner Lloyd C. Cotner William Alfred Creshine Douglas R. Creshine John Crisafi, Sr. Mildred L. Crisafi Kenneth G. Cromwell, Sr. Southampton Square Club Adam D. Croumer Dean and Brenda Miller Barbara Daley Daniel and Susan Kuzma Lester A. Danenhower Mary E. Danenhower Frank E. Daniels Carolyn F. Daniels Deceased Members Michael A. Biase Clayton DeHaven Eleanor DeHaven Marian E. Derk Mr. and Mrs. Chester A. Derk, Jr. Francis M. Derrick Ruth Derrick J. Victor DeWeese Raymond and Nancy Mae Garcia Catherine W. Ditzler Walter C. Ditzler Ronald Douglas Eileen J. Douglas Marie E. Dudley John P. Ambrozates Charles and Betty Astfalk Kenneth and Elaine Bleiler Marcella B. Burgess Charles and Carol Chew Lawrence and Alethea Cloud Robert T. Dudley Doris M. Ecklund Kenneth and Jan Engle Providence F. Eshelman William and Virginia Frankhouser Dennis and Sallie Grundman Harry and Saretta Hodge George G. and Rebecca Jones, Jr. Mary Anne Klemkosky Joseph E. and Jeanne McIntyre, Sr. Linda L. Miller Virginia H. Orchard Priscilla Rayburn Stabler Land Company

Tom and Geraldine Werner Carl and Neda Mae Wert Edna M. Wilson Emma M. Eberhardt Gerald and Truann Berger Dotta Auto Sales, Inc. Rose Croix Chapter No. 235, O.E.S. LeRoy D. Eberly Nancy L. Eberly Edward Ellefson Lorena Ellefson Carl A. Emilius, Jr. Bonnie L. Emilius George A. Emrick Edna E. Emrick Richard E. Enck Esther A. Enck V. Deryl Engel Robert L. Engel Jimmie G. Erwin Jimmie G. Erwin, Jr. John Paul Espy, Jr. Barbara Espy William M. L. Etter David S. Etter Richard Evans Donald D. Evans Theodore Evans Goran Lazarevic Kenneth L. Everett Marilyn I. Everett Frederick G. Fechter C. David Krewson Al and Irene Firth Charles E. Firth Herbert S. Ford Mark M. Ford Earl M. Foreman, Jr. Margaret A. Foreman Philip D. Fowler, Jr. Evelyn W. Fowler Charles E. Frankenberger, Sr. Charles E. Frankenberger, Jr. David H. Frey Glenn P. Marshall Eldon L. Mills Family Charles and Carol Rodgers Paul and D. Jane Schur John Sharp L. Marie Fry Astro Chapter No. 380, O.E.S. Richard W. Gable, Sr. Anna R. Gable Stephen Gally Henry and Martha Gally Arthur N. Garman Timothy E. Garman, Jr. Jack L. Gillmore Deb Brockman Vicki L. Gillmore Participants in the Jack Gillmore Memorial Tournament

Mildred K. Ginther Sara Z. Ginther Ann Kinzler Dorothy L. Price Christian and Constance Reynolds Alice C. Winter Joseph Goodman Hackenburg Mount Moriah Lodge No. 19 Martin E. Gotsch Doris M. Gotsch Margaret Green James A. Green John A. Greer George T. Stroup, Jr. Day K. and Mary Grimes Kenneth A. Sweger Delmar R. Grove Hark and Jill Bucks Kenneth and Virginia Keifer Mary Anne Klemkosky Daniel A. Grubbs Chartiers Lodge No. 297 Ray E. Gutshall Mary G. Gutshall Lamar Haas Roy L. Weil Robert R. Hagerich Robert S. Hagerich Edward K. Hall Alberta Hall Theodore S. Halpern Hackenburg Mount Moriah Lodge No. 19 Joan Gilson Hamilton Herbert W. Reynolds Felix I. Harper Richard J. Harper Frank T. Harrison, III Nancy Smith-Harrison Barry L. Hassinger Joan L. Hassinger Jack C. Herman P. Thomas and Marilyn Feeser Schuylkill County Board of Realtors, Inc. Sidney S. Hersh Joel H. Hersh Paul W. Hess Judith A. Hess LaVaughn H. Hinkle Friendship Chapter No. 551, O.E.S. Bertha Hollinger J. Larry Hollinger J. Richard Hollinger David L. Hollinger Charles S. Honigman Harry A. Houseman Lodge No. 717 Downey D. Hoster Norma M. Hoster Robert P. Hromika, Sr. Carolyn Hromika Ruth S. Hudson Friendship Chapter No. 551, O.E.S. Joanne F. Hummer Robert and Mona Murray Harvey Harold Husbands Alma S. Husbands Calvin E. Hutchison Carl K. Hutchison Elizabeth Iacono Anthony W. Iacono

Beverly A. Ingham Vernon R. Ingham, Sr. Salvatore Iocco Anna Iocco Ivy Jo Jacobs Carl E. Jacobs Dale R. Jones Carol R. Jones Michael A. Jones Kathy A. Jones Raymond C. Keener Dale R. Stump Harry B. Keffer, II Arlene S. Keffer Malvern C. Keifer, Sr. Malvern C. Keifer, Jr. Paul H. Keiser Dorothy I. Keiser Amy Keller Wilhelm Richard and Joann Keller Donald and Patricia March Henry S. Kenderdine, Jr. Bonnie Kenderdine Maurice V. Kennie Frederick J. Kennie Herbert J. Kimmy Theodore and Theresa Tomczak Ellwood W. Kirk, Sr. Ellwood W. Kirk, Jr. Claire E. Kistler Beverly Schweitzer Edna M. Klein Edward D. Klein, Jr. Otto M. Kline Janet Townsend Casper J. Knight, Sr. Mary C. Knight Virginia S. Knight Robert and Lila Brannon Marie H. Myers Pennsylvania State Employees Credit Union The Principal’s and Employees Inc. of PSKB Inc. David C. Kohler, Jr. Sarah M. Kohler Arlene Koppenhaver Dean E. Koppenhaver Carl A. Korn, Jr. Jean H. Korn Allan Kreiss Evelyn P. Darkes Robert M. Lacock A. Kendall Johnson Arthur L. Larson Doric Lodge No. 630 Warren W. Latz Mary J. Latz Joan “Eileen” Lesko Ronald E. Lesko, Sr. Robert R. Lesoine Shirley C. Lesoine Roy Liebgott Hackenburg Mount Moriah Lodge No. 19 Dominick Lizzi David Lizzi, Sr. Mary T. Longacre M. Marion Blum Barbara E. Shields Loved Ones Genevieve M. Smith Dorothy N. Luey Howard Luey

Thomas Lunger Edward C. Kasten, Sr. Wesley A. MacDonald Grace M. MacDonald Mildred M. Magee John and Doris Davison Betty Jane Loffelhardt Barbara E. Shields Norma J. West Harry E. Malone Jean F. Malone Blanche L. Manmiller Francis and Elisabeth Light Kenneth C. and Pauline March Donald and Patricia March Pauline L. March John J. Amsler, Jr. Vicki L. Gillmore Richard and JoAnn Keller Gerry and Pat Kemmerer Millard L. Kroh, II Stephen and Kathleen McDermott Millersburg Towpath Court No. 134 Order of the Amaranth Mr. and Mrs. Richard Parks Perry Chapter No. 459, O.E.S. Donald and Nancy Ramp Joan E. Short Chester and Eleanor Ann Swank Catherine “Kitty” Mark Clifford K. Mark C. Beck Markel John H. Mann Franklin C. Markelwith Southampton Square Club Thomas H. Martin Elizabeth A. Martin Alfred Mash Lester R. Worthington, Jr. Carl A. Massa Marie Massa Betty Mae Masterstefone Edward W. Masterstefone Frank C. Mathews Gabriel and Carol Belser Harry and Virginia McCafferty Scott McCafferty William W. McCain, Jr. William M. McCain Donald C. McCombs Mary A. McCombs Jack McCrae Edward P. Pfendner Joseph and Thelma McIntire Stanley E. McIntire Fred S. McIntire, Sr. William G. Struthers Gerald D. McMaster Vida L. McMaster Robert L. McNew Genevieve M. McNew Roy P. Meehan, Jr. Thomas R. Mason Thomas H. Mercer, Jr. Helen D. Mercer George A. Metz Alice J. Metz John R. Meyer Mildred H. Meyer Paul E. Meyers Donald C. Meyers Frank J. Miller Hazel S. Miller L. Robert Miller Linda L. Miller

Louise Miller Friendship Chapter No. 551, O.E.S. William H. Miller Donald J. Miller Richard F. Mitchell Doris M. Mitchell Lillian Monaghan George Monaghan Gerald F. Moore R. Thomas Croft John A. Moore Doric Lodge No. 630 Kermit Moore Mary Moore Naomi and Louis Movic Alexander F. Kadar Alma Madora Peterson Moyer Francis K. Moyer Dorothy Moyer Dennis L. Haldeman Betty Myers Leon C. Myers, Jr. C. Earl Nace Sarah B. Nace Sara Negley Thomas O. Richey Nathlee Netsch Samuel and Virginia Cameron Flora Nixon Harry T. Nixon, Jr. Sonya Kay Olson James E. Olson Robert L. Owens Stuart and Barbara Brown Harry O. McMullen William D. Painter Helen F. Painter David Parker Hackenburg Mount Moriah Lodge No. 19 Dorothy B. Peeling Jack W. Peeling George R. Pester June P. Pester John Pfendner Edward P. Pfendner Clifford A. Poff Eileen J. Poff Homer O. Potter Audrey M. Potter Lynn Poynor Charles J. Johnson Robert E. Prout Ralph F. Latta William E. Pugsley Hackenburg Mount Moriah Lodge No. 19 Richard D. Rathman Rosemary P. Rathman Zetta Raub Kenneth G. Raub, Sr. Robert E. Reader Shirley S. Rowley Norman R. Reed Juniata Lodge No. 282 Howard B. Reifsnyder Dorothy Reifsnyder and Family Clifford A. Reigle Clinton J. Starkey Raymond A. Reiter Mary Ann Reiter Emil B. Reutlinger, Sr. Jane Reutlinger

Continued on next page

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H. Evans Rhell Southampton Square Club Perry W. Riggle David L. Riggle William F. Rittner William S. Snyder Lodge No. 756 George Thomas Roberts, III Wilmington Trust Company J. Earle Roberts George A. Roberts Joyce Audrey Roberts William D. Roberts Veronica “Ronnie” Robinson Frederick W. Robinson Ethel D. Roddy Carl C. Roddy, Jr. Jay T. Rodham Robert E. Younkins George E. Rogers Elinor Rogers McGinn Samuel H. Rolston Gloria A. Rolston Roosevelt 2 Nursing Staff J. Paul and Margaret Stouffer Sidney Sacks Shirley Sacks Florence Sankowicz Friendship Chapter No. 551, O.E.S. Darrell D. Saterfield Donald B. Stull Fern L. Schade Robert J. Schade Todd D. Schlobohn William S. Snyder Lodge No. 756 Emitt Schrefler Charles W. Dodson Howard C. Shaud Samuel and Virginia Cameron Walter W. Shearer Doris S. Shearer John R. Shimer David R. Duncan James G. Sholly Betty J. Sholly Wilma Shuttleworth Verne C. Shuttleworth, Jr. Archibald T. Sichel Palestine-Roxborough Lodge No. 135

Daniel H. Sirney Co-Workers at Acclaim Telecom Services Wallace F. Smiley, Sr. Henry Floyd John R. Smith Eve Smith Violet and Arthur Smith Kenneth I. Renninger James W. Snauffer James P. Vasalinda Jane L. Snyder Dale R. Snyder Norine J. Snyder Charles J. Snyder, Jr. Leroy J. Spahr, Sr. Leroy J. Spahr, Jr. Charles H. Spalding, Sr. George W. Spalding Esther Spoerl Donald H. Spoerl Gustave Spoerl Donald H. Spoerl Laura Spoerl Donald H. Spoerl Foster E. “Toby” Starcher David W. Starcher James H. Staver, Jr. Nellie D. Staver Thomas A. Stidd, Jr. Thomas A. Stidd Henry J. Stock Mary L. Stock Harry Homer Stuart, Jr. Scott A. Stuart Steven Supp Margaret Supp Dolores Ann Swemley Paul K. Swemley Steven G. Takacs Suzanna G. Takacs Henry Tatum David M. Tatum Albert J. Taylor Southampton Square Club Dale R. Taylor Douglas J. Taylor Edith M. Teears Arthur T. Teears, Jr.

Gary E. Thompson Douglas R. Shetron Edward K. Thorpe, Sr. Edward K. Thorpe, Jr. Stewart F. Titus The Penn Mutual Quarter Century Club Maxine Wargo Thomas Tooma John P. Ippolito Lloyd Forrest Townsend Janet Townsend Catherine M. Truitt Williams F. Truitt, Sr. Bernard H. Van Meter Bernard F. Van Meter Edward R. Vogel Southampton Square Club George H. Wagner, Sr. George H. Wagner, Jr. Joan Wagner Robert D. Barbush Laura S. Wagner Robert J. Wagner Larry Walk Dennis L. Robinson William R. Wallis, Jr. Joyce M. Wallis Robert Walsh Laura Walsh

Elvin M. Warner, Sr. Elvin M. and Leatrice Warner, Jr. Pearl Weisberg Kurt and Adelaide Buehler William R. Welder Warren B. Welder Millard E. Wertz Elizabeth Wertz Jack W. Westafer Joanne D. Westafer Solomon Wexler Hackenburg Mount Moriah Lodge No. 19 John Calhoun Williams Richard E. Douglas Herman C. Willis William J. Reaghard Paul Robert Wolf Shelley J. Urbank-Wolf Hobert C. Wolfe Janet L. Wolfe Merle L. Wyric Doric Lodge No. 630 Glenn Zeigenfuse Jane E. Zeigenfuse Catherine V. Zimmerman Mr. and Mrs. Elliott S. Klipa Dawn Zimmerman-Morpurgo Thomas F. Zimmerman

Helping Others ... In Style

O

n Saturday, Nov. 6, residents and staff in Elizabethtown hit the runway to benefit the Masonic Tree of Life. Featuring fashions from Macy’s, lunch and refreshments, the jam-packed show raised $1,718.

Models included residents Carole Sieber, Lois Witmer and Helen Daniel, and staff Cristine Maser, Jennifer Stuckey and Christine Wakefield.

“This was a huge success,” organizer and commentator resident Jean Long said. This is her third show at Masonic Village. She coordinated several charity fashion shows prior to residing here to benefit cancer research, hospice services and others.

“I feel we should help when we can,” she said.

Funds given to the Masonic Tree of Life are restricted for partial or fully subsidized payment of the monthly service fee of retirement living residents whose financial resources have been depleted.

Enjoy our products all winter long!

The Farm Market is closed for the season, but orders may be placed: • Online at www.mvfarmmarket.com • Over the phone at (717) 361-4520 • Via fax at (717) 361-5592 Apples available in January and February: Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Stayman Winesap, Nittany, Jonathan, Fuji and Rome Beauty.

FARM MARKET

MasonicVillage Fresh Local Produce

FARM MARKET

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The Village Voice • Winter 2011

Orders can be shipped anywhere across the country. For those who live close to Elizabethtown, or plan to visit there, you may pick up your orders at the Retirement Living Country Store in the Clubhouse on the Masonic Village campus, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. or Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon.

Re-opening April 1 One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown (Located on the grounds of the Masonic Village)

Honorarium Gifts August 1 - October 31, 2010 Below is a list of individuals (names are shown in red) whose loved ones have made a gift in their honor to one of the five Masonic Villages located at Dallas, Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill, Sewickley or Warminster. Great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of the names listed below. We regret any errors or omissions. If an error has been made, please contact the Office of Gift Planning at (800) 599-6454, (717) 367-1121, ext. 33003, or by e-mailing giving@masonicvillagespa.org. Thank you.

Firman and Margaret Abdill Firman H. Abdill, IV All Present and Future Members Michael A. Biase All Staff on Ben Franklin 2 John R. Rapp Gerald C. Bange Larry S. Fisher Jerry Bange Ralph L. Shultz, Jr. Raymond R. Betz Richard F. Betz Lynn M. Blum M. Marion Blum Louise L. Butterworth Genevieve M. Smith Dorothy Condran Jeffrey J. Condran Denice Criswell Naomi Chapter No. 55, O.E.S. Order of Eastern Star Region 3A Members

Ellen R. DeStefano Frank J. DeStefano, Jr. Raymond T. Dietz Raymond J. Loichinger James H. Fulton Scott G. Cawthern Barbara E. Garnes Charles A. Garnes Dale Hartman Ralph L. Shultz, Jr. Rick and Jan Hendershot Derwood A. Strunk, Jr. Doris Homan Laird O. Cole Jo Anne Hower Frederick C. Kublic David A. Kenderdine Bonnie Kenderdine Anita H. Kirk Ellwood W. Kirk, Jr. Virginia Korieth Bert C. Korieth

Ida Lerman Frank Lerman Benjamin Levinson Harris H. Brooks Sylvester B. Mathias, Jr. Susan M. Gervell William Morris William D. Roberts Gertrude K. Myers Charles L. Myers Cecil I. Nye Ralph L. Shultz, Jr. Rod and Judy Ray Phares 50th Wedding Anniversary Gary and Barbara Mitchell Thomas S. Scheller Linda W. Hinson Nate Shaw Lewis C. Shaw Leonard E. Smith Alfred J. Mikkelsen, Jr.

Staff – Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Millard L. Kroh, II Thomas K. Sturgeon Ricky L. Swalm Isabel Tompkins Aulay P. Tompkins Cathy Welsh Francis and Barbara Dufner Beatrice Whitmer Marc and Ann Falcinelli Irene Wieber Ernst J. Schmid Florence E. Willis William J. Reaghard George E. and Betsy Zimmerman, Jr. 50th Wedding Anniversary J. Paul and Margaret Stouffer Catherine V. Zimmerman Barry L. Zimmerman

Hospice Care Memorial Gifts August 1 - October 31, 2010 Below is a list of individuals (names are shown in red) whose loved ones have made a gift in their memory to Masonic Village Hospice Care which is offered at our Elizabethtown location. Great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of the names listed below. We regret any errors or omissions. If an error has been made, please contact the Office of Gift Planning at (800) 599-6454, (717) 367-1121, ext. 33003, or by e-mailing giving@masonicvillagespa.org. Thank you.

George H. Burt Donegal Area High Twelve Club No. 686 Richard “Dick” H. Delbridge Bill and Nancy DeLiberty Sally Purcell Marie E. Dudley Arthur and Dorothy Wert Jack L. Gillmore Harry and Doris Longenecker Mabel E. Heistand Clement Pappas & Co., Inc. Providence F. Eshelman Genevieve M. Smith

John K. Kieffer The Brownies (Brown Building Residents) Robert L. Knowles Donegal Area High Twelve Club No. 686 Robert L. Owens Bob and Mimi Crawford James H. Geer Mr. and Mrs. James C. Harris, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Jack Kimberly Mr. and Mrs. James Minor John and Jann Olson Lillian Olson Marjorie D. Owens

Pauline W. Rinehart Mr. and Mrs. Larry Rydbom Steven Spadafore and Debby Spence Catherine T. Surra and Family Elwood R. Raber Bainbridge Band Nancie M. Beinhower Christian J. Eurich Vicki L. Gillmore Terry and Barbara Lenker Members of Elizabethtown Area Education Association Bonita L. Nauman Ed and Shirley Parkison

Howard B. Reifsnyder Donegal Area High Twelve Club No. 686 Adele Eva (Boehm) Schmidt Timothy A. Nickel John G. Wenzel Donegal Area High Twelve Club No. 686 If you have questions or would like more information about Masonic Village Hospice Care, please call (717) 367-1121, ext. 18449.

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Masonic Village One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022-2199

A “New” Option for Today’s Donor

T

he Masonic Charities of the R.W. Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania has embarked on a “new” donation option that offers donors more convenient ways to give. Donors now have the option to have their charitable gifts automatically withdrawn from their bank account or charged to their credit card monthly.

Automatic withdrawal works the same way as paying your mortgage, loan payments, utilities or insurance premiums.

Important Benefits for You the Donor: • Easier to fulfill charitable commitments • Allows you to contribute even when you’re away from home • Easier personal budgeting • You don’t have to worry about your checks being lost or stolen The monthly electronic transfer or credit card charge will cost you nothing. We will give you proof of your donations at the end of the year for tax purposes. Your monthly bank statement or credit card statement will provide you with a record of transfer as additional proof of your donations.

To join the Masonic Charities Loyalty Club, please call the Office of Gift Planning at (800) 599-6454, fill out the enclosed business reply envelope or visit our Web site www.masonicvillagespa.org. On the site, select “How You Can Help” and then choose “Online Gifts.” Scroll 2/3 of the way down the page and click to download the “Masonic Charities Loyalty Club” form. Mail your completed form to: Masonic Charities Office of Gift Planning One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022

Sign Up for the Village Voice Online!

Visit www.masonicvillagespa.org or send an e-mail to pr@masonicvillagespa.org.