Village Voice winter 2016

VillageVoice www.masonicvillages.org

Winter 2016 Vol. 26, No. 1

Education is Ageless

A publication of the Masonic Villages

Village Voice Winter 2016

The Village Voice is published four times per year.

The Masonic Villages include:

Masonic Village at Dallas Masonic Village at Elizabethtown Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill Masonic Village at Sewickley Masonic Village at Warminster Members of:

LeadingAge LeadingAge PA Kairos Health Systems Masonic Communities and Services Association

Admissions to the Masonic Villages are approved or disapproved primarily on the basis of need. Decisions concerning admission, the provision of services and referrals of residents are not based upon the applicant’s race, color, religion, disability, ancestry, national origin, familial status, age, sex, limited English proficiency or any other protected status.

The Masonic Villages is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Village Voice Staff

Debra L. Davis editor/public relations manager, Corporate Editorial Board Trudy Plunkett executive assistant, Lafayette Hill Karen Hammond recreation supervisor/concierge, Sewickley Trisha Lamb activities director, Warminster Linda Tressler executive assistant, human resources, Corporate NEXT DEADLINE: Submissions for the spring issue of the Village Voice are due March 15.

Public Relations Department Masonic Village, One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022 pr@masonicvillages.org For more information, call 717-367-1121, ext. 33383.

On the cover: Jack and Ann Koslowski, residents of Masonic Village at Dallas, visit neighboring Misericordia University.

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A message from Joseph E. Murphy, chief executive officer

After a fairly mild winter, Mother Nature made up for her kindness with a whopper of a storm in late January. We were ready across the state though, with staff stepping up to ensure residents were warm, well-fed, cared for and dug out as soon as possible.

Thanks to all our staff for their dedication and to residents for their patience.

You’ll find stories to really warm your heart in this issue. The love and care a former resident of the Masonic Children’s Home received more than 100 years ago left such an impression on her that, upon her death, she provided the children’s home with a gift of $10.9 million (p. 26). To think of the difference Dr. Dorothea Ilgen Shaffer’s generosity will make in the lives of our youth is amazing. There are not enough words to express our gratitude.

In another moving gesture, Masonic Village Hospice staff, thanks to local Masons, had the opportunity to take a patient who spent countless hours flying

planes up in the air for one more flight (p.

20). The smile seen on the gentleman’s face, as well as his wife’s, is priceless. The effort had a huge impact on two individuals facing difficult circumstances.

Resident Annelis Wolter’s tale of escaping Communist Germany and establishing a successful family business in the United States is inspiring and reminds us of the blessings our great nation affords us.

We don’t always know what life will bring, but the key is to reflect on and grow from each situation. Even the not-so-happy surprises can sometimes shape our lives for the better.

In this Issue Introducing R.W. Grand Master Dietz.....p. 3 Welcoming New Staff............................p. 3 Mission Model: Cher Wilson................ p. 4 Masonic Villages Earn Recognition for Quality.................................................p. 5 Cover Story: Education is Ageless ...pp. 6-11 Aging and Our Balance..................... p. 11 Village Happenings...................... pp. 12-13 Health Update............................. pp. 14-15 Masonic Village at Dallas Meets Philadelphia............................... pp. 16-17 Around the World in a Lifetime..... pp. 18-19

Village Voice

Flying the Skies One More Time..........p. 20 Emergency Puts Masonic Villages’ Mission to the Test............................................. p. 21 The Longest Journey................... pp. 22-23 Trust Services Offer a Reliable Partner... p. 24 Help Make a Difference Today Through Masonic Compassionate Care........... p. 25 A Lasting Impact................................ p. 26 Memorial Gifts........................... pp. 27-29 Honorarium Gifts...............................p. 30 Hospice Care Gifts...................... p. 30-31

Introducing R.W. Grand Master Raymond T. Dietz Raymond T. Dietz was installed as the 121st Grand Master of Pennsylvania on Dec. 27, 2015.

Bro. Raymond joined Davage Lodge No. 374 in 1973. He is a member and Past Master of Avalon Lodge No. 657, Pittsburgh, and a member of Lodge No. 45, Pittsburgh. He served as District Deputy Grand Master of the 55th Masonic District, 2004-2009. He has also served as a member of the Grand Lodge Committee on Finance since 2005, as well as on the Committee on Landmarks, trustee of the Masonic Charities Fund, director of the Masonic Library & Museum and on Masonic Villages’ board of directors.

A lifelong resident of Allegheny County, Bro. Raymond graduated from North Hills Senior High School in 1970 and Robert Morris University with a Bachelor of Science in business administration. He has been employed as vice president of Union Home Mortgage since 2011, when the company purchased Allstate Financial, which he founded in 1989 and had served as president.

He served on the Finance Committee for Northmont Presbyterian Church and as director on the Foundation Board for Allegheny General Hospital, Suburban Campus. He also served as the director, treasurer and house chairman for Shannopin Country Club. He is president of Newport Condominium Association, Bahamas.

Bro. Raymond has been married to Lynn for 37 years, and they have two daughters, Jennifer Kelley and Jessica Pfansteil. In his spare time, he fishes, golfs and plays racquetball; he and Lynn both enjoy gardening and scuba diving.

Welcoming New Staff Jerry Gallagher Vice President of Sales & Marketing Jerry Gallagher has joined Ashlar Creative Solutions, a consulting and management firm owned and operated by the Masonic Villages, as vice president of sales and marketing. Jerry is responsible for developing, implementing and measuring the performance of marketing programs for all Ashlar managed facilities, with a focus on maximizing occupancy levels. He also assists with Masonic Villages’ marketing efforts.

Most recently employed as a client manager with Hamlyn Senior Marketing in New Jersey, Jerry has over 25 years of field experience. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business and marketing from Drexel University.

Jerry serves on the board of the Northampton Senior Center, as a member of the Professional Collaborative Network and as president of the Rotary Club of Edison, N.J., from which he received the Paul Harris Award, the highest award presented by the club. He resides in Hartsville with his wife, Michelle. He has two children, Gerard and Kara, and enjoys practicing racquetball and yoga, running and watching the Phillies.

Winter 2016

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MISSION MODEL

A Work of Heart

When Cher Wilson mentions her career, she typically gets one of three responses: “It takes a special person for that job!,” “Oh, you are? Well I’ve been having a strange pain here…” or “Wow, I could never do that!”

With such a caring heart, Cher was meant to be a nurse. Whether she is administering medications, checking vitals, providing a listening ear or supporting family members, Cher sincerely enjoys nursing, even if it means putting someone else’s needs before her own.

Although, Cher never really thought of becoming a registered nurse until a resident insisted while she was working as a certified nursing assistant with a bachelor’s degree in biology.

One year later, Cher passed her state certification exam and became a registered nurse.

“My decision to go back to school was based on a lot of factors,” Cher said. “I was lucky to have Masonic Village reimburse my tuition, fellow employees who supported me and the opportunity to flex my schedule around my classes. It all made it so much easier for me to succeed.”

Cher now works as a nurse manager at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill and supervises registered nurses.

“I’ve been working here for 15 years,” she said. “I’m in disbelief every time I say it!”

According to Cher, the medical world is constantly changing, and no one knows what’s to come. With shifting technologies and various ways of providing patient care, it’s crucial to roll with the punches.

“One of my biggest professional challenges is getting other team members to accept change,” Cher said.

“It’s hard to come out of your old ways, but in order to succeed in this field, you have to keep an open mind and understand that just like life, things at work are always shifting.”

Cher has her mind set on going back to school and earning her doctorate in nursing within the next five years.

With that, she hopes to continue impacting residents’ lives each day.

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“I truly believe you can do anything you put your mind to,” she said. “Sometimes, it’s all about mind over matter.”

She remembers impacting one life in particular. As she made her rounds one afternoon, she noticed a resident, whom she often conversed with, having slurred speech.

Cher identified the symptom as an early sign of stroking and was able to stabilize and send her off to the hospital for treatment in less than 15 minutes. The quick action decreased most of the woman’s negative side effects.

“That scenario was certainly one I am proud of,” Cher said. “It’s an amazing feeling.”

What else gets Cher out of bed in the morning and off to her next shift?

“Life,” she said. “I enjoy life and know it’s too short to waste.”

In the world of nursing, each day can be a challenge; physically, mentally and sometimes emotionally. With pressure to ensure every detail is managed and proper care is provided to the best ability, it can be said the strongest nurses are those who are doing it for others.

Cher Wilson has certainly answered her life’s calling, making her career a work of heart.

Village Voice

Masonic Villages Earn Recognition for Quality Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill The Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), a national professional organization, has awarded Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill’s new apartment construction the annual Excellence in Construction Award.

The ABC Excellence in Construction Award recognizes and publicizes outstanding projects built by its members.

The project, designed by RLPS Architects and completed

by Warfel Construction Co., added 60 apartments and an extra 96,000 sq. ft. of living space to Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, bringing the total number of retirement living residences to 158. The new building includes one and two-bedroom apartment floor plans ranging in size from 800 to 1,120 sq. ft. The community also offers 38 personal care residences and 60 nursing care suites.

This will be the sixth Excellence in Construction Award received among Masonic Villages’ five Pennsylvania locations in the last five years.

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown The Masonic Village at Elizabethtown has been recognized as the “Best of the Best” in retirement living in South Central Pennsylvania by SeniorAdvisor.com for outstanding resident feedback.

SeniorAdvisor.com, the largest ratings and reviews site for senior care and services in North America, recently announced the Best of 2016 Awards, recognizing the “best” providers as rated by residents and families. More than 1,000 assisted living, in-home care and other senior housing providers across the United States and Canada were recognized this year, but Masonic Village at Elizabethtown is the only retirement community in Lancaster County to make the list.

Now in their third year, the Best of Awards celebrate the communities and agencies that have consistently received outstanding feedback from families on the S e n i o r A d v i s o r. c o m website. According to a release written by the organization, this exclusive designation places the winners in the top one percent of senior care providers, based on the opinions of those who matter most – residents and their families.

Read Masonic Village’s reviews at www.senioradvisor.com by searching Elizabethtown, PA or 17022.

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Education is Ageless A Desire for Knowledge It was both a fearful and exhilarating moment when Arline Rochkind decided to go back to school one more time. Mostly because she was 62 years old, or “62 years young,” as she’ll correct you.

As she walked the stage on May 5, 2012, to accept her master’s degree in American studies from Penn State Harrisburg, she looked amongst her fellow soon-to-be-graduates. Luckily, the sea of youth didn’t make her feel out of place.

“I saw people that would do great things with their lives,” Arline said. “At the beginning, I was worried how I would fit in. Turns out, we studied things I’ve lived through, and they wanted to know about my experiences.”

Arline celebrated her 74th birthday the next month.

She always had a passion for learning, and decided to pursue her first degree right out of high school at Hunter College in New York.

Unfortunately, life’s twists and turns detoured her for a bit.

In 1956, Arline met and fell in love with her husband, Michael, and they tied the knot several years later.

“The first date didn’t go well,” Arline said. “I don’t know why he asked me out on another, or why I said yes, but on the second date I knew.”

Michael’s engineering job took them out of New York and planted them in central Pennsylvania, where they raised two children. Amidst caring for her children, which she loved to do, Arline couldn’t yet scratch the itch she had to pursue a degree.

When her oldest child reached school age, Arline put her caring heart and negotiating skills to work, taking a job with the state, where she would spend 32 years in the Department of Welfare.

“I was happy working, but I always said

“I went back to school because I had a burning desire to know more about everything. I still do.” ~ Arline Rochkind 6

Village Voice

someday I would go back to school,” she said.

In 1973, she enrolled at Harrisburg Area Community College, where she began earning her associate’s degree while working full-time. She eventually obtained the degree in general studies and a paralegal certificate at 46 years old.

Between continuing her career and finishing raising her children, Arline once again got the itch.

“Once I make up my mind to do something, you better watch out,” she said.

But this time, it was a little different. It was 20 years since she earned her last degree, and Michael was ready to spend some extra time together and travel the world.

Because they planned trips every spring and summer, Arline decided to only attend school in the fall and winter.

“I couldn’t just put life on hold,” Arline said with a grin. “Traveling also provides great education.”

With her eye on the prize, Arline earned a bachelor’s degree in humanities from Penn State Harrisburg in 2004, eight years after she started.

Though it entailed a great amount of courage, Arline enjoyed her experience so much that she made up her mind, officially as a “senior citizen,” to go back one more time for a master’s degree. She began earning her third degree later that year.

Arline was the oldest member of Penn State Harrisburg’s American Studies Graduate Program, but no doubt, one of the most vibrant.

“I read everything twice,” Arline said. “I was always able to retain information quickly. This time around, I found it harder, but I still enjoyed every class.”

The late nights awake in her cottage at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown were well worth it.

Arline completed her last semester with one of her most memorable works, her thesis on “The New Negro Movement: Langston Hughes and the New Harlem Renaissance.”

In addition to her own hard work, Arline also credits her success to her husband.

“He is a very laid-back person,” Arline said. “I don’t think we could be married if he were like me. He put up with a lot of ‘Sorry, I can’t go. I have a paper due.’”

As she no longer stresses over writing term papers and taking finals, Arline enjoys dancing, swimming, reading (she started a book club on campus), creative writing and most of all, seeing and studying people and things.

“I went back to school because I had a burning desire to know more about everything,” Arline said. “I still do.”

Arline is a true testament to anyone wondering whether “now” is the right time to go for an advanced degree, or do anything courageous for that matter.

“Always look forward, never look back,” she says.

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Learning the Perfect Harmony “The residents are so open to music, and all of them have really touched my heart.” ~ DeeDee Evans

Megan Zulauf, resident Marge Kelly and DeeDee Evans Whether it’s a played recording or performed live, music can promote better health for those of all ages. It can take the listener back to a memory, make them move and give an outlet for expression.

These are all reasons why Slippery Rock University student DeeDee Evans ventured into music therapy.

“I wanted to find a field that joins music and science, and music therapy does just that,” DeeDee said. “Not to mention, it helps others.”

Under the instruction of Megan Zulauf, board-certified music therapist at Masonic Village at Sewickley, DeeDee is certainly on the right track.

“My end goal for each intern is for them to be able to do everything I can as a full-time therapist,” Megan said.

To qualify for the national music therapy board certification test, a bachelor’s degree is required, as well as a six-month internship. During the first few weeks of their experience, the music therapy interns observe Megan’s resident groups, as well as co-lead with her. Beginner interns also assist in individual music therapy visits and planning and coordinating musical programs.

“Their fresh ideas are invaluable, along with their helping hands,” Megan said.

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Eventually, each intern leads some resident groups on her or his own.

“It can be intimidating at first, but in the end, it provides wonderful field experience,” Megan said.

For DeeDee, interning became even more than “field experience.” She bonded with residents individually and could see their transformation as they listened and played music. DeeDee was so inspired by the reactions, she started a new ukulele class for personal care residents, which will be continued after she has completed her internship.

“The class gives them a wonderful opportunity to learn something new and unique. It just goes to show, you’re never too young or too old to learn,” Megan said.

“The residents not only love learning the ukulele, but they also enjoy helping a young student with her education.”

Previous interns have also started successful programs including an intergenerational musical group called, “Circle of Friends,” which includes personal care residents and children from the on-campus preschool.

“I love so many things about Masonic Village,” DeeDee said. “The residents are so open to music, and all of them have really touched my heart.”

Teaching through heart-to-heart experiences is what Megan aims to do.

“I strive to pass on Masonic Villages’ mission of love and to teach them each resident has the potential to be their best self,” Megan said. “You can’t learn that from books. It’s seeing how you increase someone’s quality of life – that’s where the direct impact is.”

As her future, DeeDee can see herself working with various populations, including older adults, as well as advocating for the field and obtaining more education.

During her short time at Masonic Village, DeeDee has brought her vocal talent, patience, energy and spirit to each resident, and plans on saying, “see you later” instead of “goodbye.”

Village Voice

A Welcoming Smile She is often the first face new Masonic Village at Dallas residents see. Her smile and energetic demeanor tell those who are nervous that everything will be okay: they will settle quickly, make friends and love their new home.

Joy Hubshman, director of sales and marketing, has always had a knack for people and understanding their needs.

“For many, the decision to make a move is not easy,” Joy said, “but I truly enjoy getting to be part of the process from start to finish.”

Joy earned her bachelor’s degree in marketing and always knew she wanted to continue expanding her business skills with a graduate program. After working a few years as a business marketer, she was ready to further challenge herself with a more customer-oriented sales position.

Joy accepted a position at Masonic Village in 2007.

Today, she spends her days developing, implementing and evaluating marketing plans and hosting events and open houses, as well as assisting new residents in the move-in process.

“To see a new resident, who was fearful in the beginning, become part of the community is extremely rewarding,” Joy said. “It makes all of the planning and execution well worth it.”

In addition, she assists in resident programs such as those available through a partnership with neighboring Misericordia University.

“The university offers different programs and services to the residents including fitness and wellness, culture and continuing education,” Joy said. “We encourage residents to experience the benefits of its beautiful campus throughout the year.”

Therefore, Joy began thinking about earning a Master of Business Administration and knew Misericordia would be the perfect fit. With the extra encouragement from her co-workers and residents, she knew the time was right to enroll.

“One of the biggest challenges for me was getting accustomed to being in a classroom environment again,” Joy said, “but the classroom gave me an opportunity to

share my professional experience while being able to interact with other like-minded professionals.”

Another one of her challenges was time management.

Working full-time and taking graduate classes didn’t free up much time in her evenings and weekends to do anything else.

“Luckily, I have a very understanding husband!” she said.

During her time of study, she was also able to compare notes and classroom stories (both good and bad) with Noah Davis, executive director at Masonic Village at Dallas, who is enrolled in a doctorate program.

In 2014, Joy earned her MBA. She has continued to take on new challenges while remaining the welcoming face prospective and new residents need – only now with even more knowledge and skill under her belt.

“Furthering my education was always something I wanted to do,” Joy said. “For me, it wasn’t all about the opportunity for career growth, it was about personal growth. I’ve always loved learning, and sometimes, that’s all you need to be successful.”

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A Perfect Partnership Five minutes after class began, the nerves had worn off and smiles began to show.

Masonic Village at Dallas has long enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship with Misericordia University, and in September, the neighboring communities began a Fall Prevention Program to encourage good health, exercise and well-being, as well as give students real-life field experience.

Recognizing the national concern of falling by older adults, Joy Hubshman, director of sales and marketing, and Noah Davis, executive director, reached out to the university last spring, which emerged into an exciting opportunity.

A total of 36 participants, ranging from adults who exercise regularly to those with limitations, took advantage of the weekly program to work one-on-one with first-year graduate physical therapy students.

“Our students, who are generally in their 20s, often make the decision to become a physical therapist based on wanting to work with professional athletes,” Dr. Laurie Brogan, assistant professor of physical therapy, said. “However, physical therapy clientele are often older. Initially, the students had some fears about communicating with the residents, but those were quickly overcome!”

At first, residents felt the same.

“I wasn’t quite sure how the program would impact my day-to-day living, but the information I received and the work of the students has improved my mobility greatly,” Rosalie Cunningham, resident, said. “I appreciate everything they’ve taught me.”

During the first class, students evaluated each resident’s strength, balance, agility, endurance and vital signs, creating baseline statistics that would later be used to measure progress. The following classes focused on teaching risk factors for falling, how to reduce risks at home and while out, and teachings on the proper footwear and exercises, as well as assessments of vision and bone health.

The last class included an outcome analysis.

The analysis didn’t just focus on physical health and knowledge gained, but on relationships built.

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Misericordia student Rachel Scanlon measures the height of resident Rosalie Cunningham “Physical therapy is all about developing therapeutic relationships that lead to improved health, which is exactly what happened throughout this program,” Dr. Kristen Karnish, associate professor of physical therapy, said.

“Talking to and working with the residents on a weekly basis gave me a huge appreciation for their hard work,” Brad Thomas, student, said. “It was nice to get to know them, and I saw residents make fantastic progress – much better than I anticipated.”

“Anytime our residents can work with younger generations, it’s a great experience,” Joy said. “It’s extra special to see both groups benefit so greatly.”

In addition to the hands-on experience the students received and the education the residents gained, the university conducted its own research study throughout the program on fall prevention techniques for older adults.

According to Dr. Karnish and Dr. Brogan, the key to avoiding falls and maintaining independence is to be proactive. It’s important to see a doctor regularly, review medications with a doctor or pharmacist, maintain a safe environment (free of obstacles or clutter) and exercise regularly to gain and sustain strength and balance.

Village Voice

“Our focus is to help residents remain independent in their apartment or villa as long as possible, and to feel both safe and comfortable,” Noah said. “Often, it may take one fall to change that independence. A fall can increase the fear of repeated falls or the need for additional care in the home. We are looking forward to continuing the program.”

“We all have something to teach one another in terms of knowledge and experience, no matter our age,” Dr. Karnish said.

Resident Annie Bisher exercises under the direction of Misericordia student Brad Thomas

Aging and Our Balance

By Stacy Schroder, director of wellness and prevention, Masonic Village at Elizabethtown What causes us to have balance issues?

Inside our ears is a balance center called the vestibular system that detects where our body is in space. The vestibular system is connected to centers in the brain which also control our balance. When the vestibular system and brain determine we’re about to fall over, the brain directs the body to take corrective action.

As we age, cells in the vestibular system die off. This affects how accurately we detect our position in space, which in turn, affects our ability to correct our position. Our reflexes and coordination also slow with age. Thus, we may be more likely to stumble and take more time to react when we do.

Our ability to focus and see things clearly diminishes, as do depth perception, night vision and sensitivity to contrast. The loss of these visual cues compromises balance.

In addition to muscle mass and strength, we lose power, a function of strength and speed, which affects balance, too. Along with regular aerobic exercise and

weight training, balance exercises are important as we grow older. Fitness classes, including yoga, SilverSneakers® classes, aqua classes or Zumba, can also help.

Specialized equipment can help increase balance, strength and power: • Balance and tilt boards • Dyna discs/foam pads • Weight machines/free weights • Resistance bands Movements performed in standing and seated positions can assist in balance training: • Walking on unstable surfaces • One-legged movements • Step ups • Heel and toe stands Check out a 3-minute video on Masonic Villages’ YouTube page (visit www.masonicvillages.org and click on the YouTube icon in the upper left corner) featuring Masonic Wellness Center staff for examples of balance tests and balance exercises you can practice at home.

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Village Happenings Youth from the Masonic Children’s Home enjoyed a Halloween party hosted by nurses from the Hershey Medical Center.

Getting ready for trick-or-treaters in Lafayette Hill are (l-r): Norma Leis, Jean Frishmuth and Joan Reynolds.

Elizabethtown resident Ray Laubenstein coordinated a dance featuring hits from the 50s and 60s.

Rita Benedict and Cathy Welsh, executive assistant/admissions coordinator, pair up for Halloween in Warminster.

Warminster resident Doris Ottey wears her “golden slippers” for the Mummers during their performance.

Taryn Traxler and Dalynn Stricker, dietetic interns in Elizabethtown, organized a food drive in support of National Food Day in October. Staff, residents and visitors donated more than 100 items which were given to the food pantry of a local church.

Residents in Lafayette Hill showcased their talents in the “Lost in the 50s” musical. Above left (l-r): Robert Murken, Sidney MacLeod, Charles Reinitz and Harold Schwartz sing. Above right, Jane Strock and Jim Heidler dance the tango.

Thanks to the National Sojourners - Harrisburg Chapter No. 76 for collecting and donating toiletries for residents in Elizabethtown. Their support of veterans, Masons and all residents is much appreciated! Shown center are Donna Hershey, director of personal care and outpatient services, and Tiffany Moyer, social worker. Representing the Sojourners are (l-r): E. Thomas Kuhn, Robert Hamilton Jr. and Glenn Kurzenknabe.

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Started by Music Therapy intern DeeDee Evans, a new ukulele group meets in Sewickley. Shown (l-r): Ruth Hibbard, Thelma Stucke and Rose Polce A plaque was hung outside the Grand Lodge Hall library honoring Elizabethtown resident Edith Cook and her recent donation made in memory of her husband, Joseph Cook.

Village Voice

Celebrating a new Tree of Life plaque recognizing more than $41,000 given since 1991 by the Elizabethtown Retirement Living Resident Association are (l-r): Jack Heinze (thenpresident), Fran Light (holding the new plaque and leader of the Greeting Card Project for 15 years) and Ray Betz.

For the ninth year, Elizabethtown residents packed shoeboxes and raised money for Operation Christmas Child, which benefits poor and orphaned children around the world through Samaritan’s Purse. At a packing party, volunteers filled 143 shoeboxes with school supplies, hygiene items, clothes and toys and contributed $1,134 toward shipping costs.

Above left, Genevie Cloak, Howard Mack and Gertrud Feil, and above right, Roberta Eppley, enjoyed a visit from Santa in Lafayette Hill.

In response to winter storm Jonas, Residents in Dallas greeted Santa and gathered for a party to Food Services staff in Elizabethtown celebrate the season. Above left, Dr. Mahmoud and Iran Fahmy, showed their commitment to ensuring and above right, Annie Bisher. operations continued uninterrupted.

Thanks to the time and talents of the Land Management Department in Elizabethtown, the Formal Gardens were beautifully illuminated this holiday season.

Santa made a stop in Sewickley, too, where Mary Sardello shared a hug with him.

Residents and staff in Sewickley pose during a live Nativity scene.

Staff in Warminster took ugly holiday sweaters to a whole new level of creativity.

Celebrating the season in Warminster are (left photo) Phyllis Batson and her daughter, Carol, decorating a Christmas tree.

Right photo, Kathryn Dubbs greets Santa.

Residents in Dallas organized a cookie bake, and Santa couldn’t resist stopping by. Shown with Santa is Karen Mertz.

Food Services staff in Elizabethtown created a gingerbread house for residents to enjoy.

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Health Update

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

Mixing Medications Safely Adverse drug reaction (ADR) = a negative effect upon a person ingesting the medication, e.g., allergic reaction, nausea, diarrhea, etc.

Adverse drug interaction (ADI) = a negative effect when a person takes two or more medications at the same time, e.g., taking a medication such as Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and Citalopram (Celexa) together can cause increased sedation and falls.

One hundred years ago, ADRs and ADIs would have had little or no relevance. Prior to the creation of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1938, only a few drugs were approved for human use, including morphine in 1827 and aspirin in 1899. As of Dec. 31, 2013, however, the FDA has approved 1,453 drugs.

In spite of the exponential increase of effective lifesaving medications, researchers paid very little attention to ADIs. Furthermore, few FDA-approved medications were studied among individuals age 65 and older since age wasn’t a significant factor in the early 20th century when the average life expectancy was around 47. Today, life expectancy is 80 years for females and 78 years for males.

Older adults experience greater risks for ADRs and ADIs, which are common causes for hospital admissions, increased illnesses and death. Age-related organ changes such as decreases in kidney functions, liver

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mass and body fat tissue can affect the distribution of medications in organ systems, metabolism of medications and excretion of medications. Also, many older adults experience multiple medical problems such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and arthritis.

Researchers are also learning that patient-specific physiological (genetic make-up) and functional characteristics play an equally, if not more, important role than a person’s age when looking at vulnerability of ADRs and ADIs. Another important factor contributing to ADIs is the increased toxic effect of drug combinations, which may increase the risk exponentially rather than the sum of the risks of each medication when taken alone. For example, Ibuprofen (Motrin) can increase the risk of stomach ulcers four-fold in adults age 65 or older. Taking a steroid medication (Prednisone) will increase the risk of stomach ulcers only 10 percent. However, when an individual takes Motrin and Prednisone, the risk of developing ulcers increases 15 times when compared to non-users of both medications.

The importance of reporting any unusual symptoms when taking two or more medicines is crucial.

Long-term care residents have been found to be particularly vulnerable to ADRs. A study of two longterm care communities in Georgia found that more than 67 percent of 332 residents experienced probable ADRs. Those who experienced ADRs were taking twice

Village Voice

as many medications as the group of residents who did not experience any ADRs. There have been other similar studies that have shown the increased risk of an ADR is related to the number of drugs taken by an older adult.

Providers specifically trained to work with older adults have been taught that taking fewer medications rather than more is best. In my practice, it is very common to see older adults improve their quality of life when discontinuing certain medications, such as those that cause sedation, decreased balance, increased confusion, nausea or unintended weight loss.

Dr. Mark Beers, with an expert consensus panel, developed a list of potentially inappropriate medications

for older adults. The criteria have been revised several times with the most recent one completed in 2015. Using the Beers’ criteria, research studies have found that 20 percent of 2,455 long-term care patients in the United States were using at least one inappropriate drug.

ADRs and ADIs will continue to occur among older adults as long as they are taking prescribed medications, over-the-counter medications and herbal remedies. As consumers, it’s important to ask questions about your medications (or have someone who can do so for you) and take steps to prevent interactions and reactions when possible. While medications can be effective in extending life, they also can shorten life if not taken appropriately.

Tips for Preventing Adverse Drug Interactions 1. Always take your medications or list of medications with you when seeing your providers.

7. If you have memory loss, it is very important someone assists you in taking your medications at the appropriate times.

2. Don’t forget to include over-the-counter medications, “nutritional” supplements and other complimentary supplements such as herbal remedies on the list.

8. If possible, have someone else accompany you when seeing your health care provider.

3. If you are already receiving prescription medications and plan to take an overthe-counter medication, always check with your pharmacist/primary provider for potential ADRs/ADIs.

9. To ensure the right timing when taking your medications, use alarms or page alerts, or have a family member/friend remind you.

10. Have your provider explain why you are taking each of your prescribed medications.

4. If you experience any new symptoms since initiating a new medication or supplement, check with your pharmacist and/or provider.

11. If taking more than one medication, use a compartmentalized pill box with labels for every day of the week and different times of the day.

5. Always remind your provider if you are taking a blood thinner when he or she prescribes a new medication such as an antibiotic or pain medication.

12. Consider color coded labels on your medicine bottles to help distinguish one bottle from another.

6. If any changes in medication or medication dosages are planned, remind your provider if you have been told you have decreased kidney function.

13. Make it a habit to associate medications to other activities. For example, the yellow pill is taken one hour before you eat and the white pill is taken at bedtime.

Winter 2016

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Masonic Village at Dallas Meets Philadelphia

By Dr. Mahmoud and Iran Fahmy, Masonic Village residents Photos by Al Exter, Masonic Village resident Masonic Village residents had the opportunity to explore Philadelphia through an outstanding, well organized excursion. In two fully-loaded Martz travel buses, 90 residents started their venture at 7:45 a.m. departing to Philadelphia, and arriving at 11:30 a.m. where they boarded the Spirit of Philadelphia cruise.

First, the bus ride was very pleasurable and convenient, offering water and snacks (thanks to the Resident Association headed by Bob Boone, the time spent by Jean Carson and Mary Ann Size, and to Noah Davis, our executive director, and his dedicated staff as well as the Martz buses and drivers).

Second, the cruise through Philadelphia Harbor, which lasted three hours, was memorable as well as educational. The weather was fantastic. It seems that some residents who participated in this trip prayed for and ordered this ideal weather. The food on the cruise

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was delicious, especially the dessert.

At 3 p.m. the group was transported to the historic site of the Masonic Temple where the group toured the various halls and were introduced to the noble Masonic principles. At 4:30 p.m. we boarded the buses, arriving home at 8:30 p.m. We were well fed on the buses, munching on sandwich wraps courtesy of the Masonic Village administration.

In closing, it was a successful excursion, especially since we had the opportunity to chat and interact with each other. It was nice to also enjoy the terrific photos taken throughout the day by our neighbor, resident Al Exter. We are looking forward to future trips and we thank the administration for their courtesy and professional arrangements.

Special thanks to an anonymous donor who made this trip possible!

Village Voice

Winter 2016

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Around the World

in a Lifetime

It’s been said traveling brings new vigor to the mind. This certainly holds true for Bryan Hill, who takes every day as a blessing and every trip with an open mind.

With more than 20 countries visited and plenty left on his bucket list, Bryan has more conversation starters than most people.

He often jokes, “I need to see the world while I can, because the United States is handicap accessible.”

Bryan spent 17 years as a prison warden at Monroe County Correctional Facility and 11 years as a district superintendent with Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission. While working, he traveled some, but after retiring, he packed his bags and started traveling extensively.

In 2006, he took his first “for fun” trip to Tuscany, Italy, to celebrate his 35th anniversary with his wife, Eileen. From then on, visiting “Mom and Pop” eateries, listening to natives converse and seeing world-renowned places and artifacts has kept Bryan going.

He has been to places most have only seen in movies: Egypt, Morocco and all throughout Europe.

Known for its civilization and some of the world’s most famous sights and monuments, Egypt provided Bryan with some of his favorite memories.

“I found that people are curious about Americans and how our country became successful,” Bryan said. “We don’t always know how good we have it.”

In fact, during a visit to the Giza Zoo, a well-known home to many endangered species, an Egyptian man handed Bryan his baby and pulled out his phone to take a photo. At the time, Bryan was unsure of the man’s intentions, but smiled for the photo anyway. Natives later suggested the man was hoping Bryan’s “American success” would rub off on his son.

“It was an incredible experience. Egyptians are great people,” he said. “It’s great to converse with people who live differently. From their views of the world, you learn the most.”

Quite opposite of holding a baby, Bryan also held a Nile cobra at the Temple Complex in Edfu during the trip, an experience he will certainly never forget. He and Eileen enjoyed viewing the Giza pyramids from the top of a camel (see upper right photo on p. 19). With perfect weather and a gained appreciation for the work of ancient Egyptians, it was

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a trip of a lifetime.

If worried about traveling to a country where the language is unfamiliar, Bryan suggests at least trying to learn key words. If you’re on a time crunch, get involved in an organized tour – one that doesn’t plan every moment.

Although, if you decide to go out on your own, Bryan notes one piece of advice: “You’ve got to keep an open mind and be resourceful when you’re in a foreign situation,” Bryan said. “A lot of times, like everything else, it’s about respecting the person you’re trying to communicate with.”

If he could recommend one trip, it would be to London during the holidays. Besides the architecture, world famous artwork and classic pubs found year-round, London is known for sparing no cost while decorating for the holidays: streaming garland, lighting up the streets and hosting Christmas “popup” shops. “It’s just like a winter wonderland,” Bryan said.

He says traveling does one ground-breaking thing: “It gets you immersed into culture and active in other communities, and it eliminates barriers.”

While keeping within the United States, Bryan puts his love for the outdoors to good use. He’s hiked countless trails and mountains including Mount Baldy, which at 12,441 feet, is the highest mountain of the Cimarron Range, a subrange of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in New Mexico. Bryan felt extra encouraged as he completed the hike with fellow Boy Scouts, a program he has been involved with since his youth.

Two days past his 70th birthday, Bryan climbed Mount Washington in New Hampshire, the highest peak in the Northeastern United States. This was no easy task, but he gives credit to the Masonic Wellness Center, where he works out weekly, for maintaining his health.

Though he has traveled around the world, Bryan says the Delaware Water Gap, where he once worked, is still one of his favorite places in the world, along with his cottage at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.

Ask him if he’ll ever “settle down,” and Bryan will answer, “Life has been too short, and I’ve got a lot of things to do.”

Village Voice

Bryan’s BEST LIST BEST WEATHER: Cairo, Egyp

t

At a stead y upper 70 s, we expe weather in rienced pe Egypt. Plu rfect s, when it it’s a dry h does get h eat, so it’s o t, not uncom fortable.

BEST CITY: London, England

why London reasons to list y an m o to e ar full of great There to get around, sy ea ’s It t. ea is so gr k into a pub, y time you wal er ev d an , le peop into “Cheers.”

It’s like walking u. yo t ee gr le peop

ia r t s u A , g r u b z l a S : T N E M BEST ENTERTAIN

y play ncerts the o c e th d n ,a nt. s born here emory are magnifice Mozart wa m is h in d s an of his work

BEST FOOD: Tuscany, Italy

In Tuscany, I at e the best Cingh iale, a native ty of wild boar th pe at makes for a delicious ragú!

BEST HISTORY: Cairo, Egypt d n a l g n E , n o d n o L : S M U E S U M B ES T

s e museum . I go to th te ri o v y fa M y . clearly m at they are This city is t’s how gre e a m th o – h it is is h v I , whic m u se each time u M les the British Elgin Marb favorite is e and the n to .

S s) a le tt arb to the Rose rthenon M n as the Pa w o n k o ls (a

The most fa mous Egyp tia at Giza, wh ich is locate n pyramids are those d on the o Cairo. The u se are gen erally consi tskirts of world’s old dered to b est monum e the ental struc the lack of tures. Base modern-da d on y constructi tools durin on, the pyra g the time o mids are a n incredible f site.

Winter 2016

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Flying the Skies One More Time Robert “Bob” Marvel, a flying logs, reading books on the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown history of flying, attending Pilot’s resident who has a lifelong passion Club meetings on campus and for flying, took to the skies one hearing his wife recall stories from more time on Friday, Dec. 11. their dating days.

Bob, who is facing a life-limiting “He would take me up all the illness, enjoyed a 40-minute time since he needed to have so airplane ride that departed from many takeoffs and landings to keep Donegal Springs Airpark, flew his license current,” Fay, Bob’s wife, along the Susquehanna River and said. “We would call those ‘dates.’” took a detour to Lancaster Airport, The flight was organized by (L-R): Rick Hamm, Fay Marvel, Wayne Laughner, where he could recall his youth.

Masonic Village Hospice staff in Bob Marvel and Timothy Nickel, hospice chaplain A native of Lancaster County, coordination with volunteer Masons Bob rode his bike to the Lancaster Airport almost daily Larry Derr, Rick Hamm and Wayne Laughner, who piloted as a young boy, observing the taking off and landing of the flight. planes. Until he was old enough to accomplish his dream Masonic Village Hospice staff pride themselves on of becoming a licensed pilot, Bob took time heating up the fulfilling requests of patients, so they may complete their lives planes, changing bulbs and doing other small favors for the joyfully. Some requests are simple, yet fulfilling; others require pilots, whom he looked up to. some creativity and help from friends in the community.

Once he earned his pilot’s license, though it wasn’t “Anytime he gave directions, he would somehow relate his full-time career, Bob did some business flying and took the destination’s location in relevance to an airport,” Fay plenty of flights for pleasure. He even owned his own plane. said. “He wouldn’t have cared where we took him on this Bob enjoys reflecting on the past by looking at his old flight. He just enjoys being up in a plane.”

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Village Voice

Emergency Puts Masonic Villages’ Mission to the Test Ellie Labajetta has lived at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown just over two years. She always knew the staff were dependable, but after she found herself in a smoke-filled apartment, she realized just how above and beyond they are willing to go for residents, living up to the organization’s Mission of Love.

Her 9-year-old grandson, Adam, noticed, too.

“This place is wonderful,” he said. “You can depend on Masons to take good care of things.”

On Nov. 3, a small kitchen fire quickly produced plumes of black smoke, filling Ellie’s apartment in the Smith North building. She immediately called the campus operator and pulled the emergency cord in her bathroom.

Within minutes, Chris Brown, security shift supervisor, was running up the stairs, fire extinguisher in hand.

Ellie Labajetta with Connie Kopp, director of risk management It didn’t take long for staff from across campus to arrive and help the residents of the 23 apartments evacuate.

When Ellie had trouble reaching her insurance “They literally came running up the hill,” Ellie said. company, Connie Kopp, director of risk management, Staff knocked on every apartment door and carried stepped in to help. “She’s worth her weight in gold,” Ellie out anyone who was unable to rapidly exit. Chris was said. “She just took over.” Many other staff checked on treated for smoke inhalation, and Ellie was taken to the her to make sure she had what she needed. hospital as a precaution, but otherwise, no one was “The response from the village couldn’t have been injured. better,” Ellie said. “I don’t know what I’d do without them, At the time of the incident, Ellie didn’t have her cell my son and Paul Davis Restoration.” phone, so she couldn’t recall her son David’s cell phone A long-standing member of the Order of the Eastern number. Staff called his home phone, which his family Star and Amaranth, Ellie didn’t know about Masonic typically doesn’t answer. When Adam saw Masonic Village until a friend mentioned it to her a few years ago.

Village on the caller ID, he knew it was safe to answer, Just four months later, she moved into her apartment. so her family was quickly alerted to the situation. David is “Smith North is nice, and we’re small enough to be a Mason and taught Adam that the Masonic square and a family,” she said. “We sit on the porch and watch the compasses symbol, whether on a building, car or man’s deer and geese. The view is wonderful. Everyone knows ring, is a trusted sign. my name. The staff is wonderful. I have not met anyone Other than a melted microwave and blackened who is unpleasant or won’t go the extra mile if needed. cabinets, the only damage was caused by the smoke.

“Before this happened, I read about the founding All residents’ apartments were thoroughly cleaned and mission of the Masonic Village in the ‘100th Anniversary’ inspected thanks to Housekeeping and Maintenance history book. I think how happy those men would be to know staff, as well as Paul Davis Restoration which completed the mission is still alive today. Some things are different, but work on Ellie’s apartment during the following weeks. the mission still lives. It’s obvious, even to a 9-year-old. I knew this place was great. This situation just reinforced that.”

Mission of Love Winter 2016

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T he Longest Journey She wishes spring and summer would last forever. That’s when resident Annelis Wolter feels most like herself, nourishing precious flowers and plants. Gardening has been a pasttime within her German-rooted family for hundreds of years.

Prior to coming to America in 1964, Annelis, her husband, Günther, and three children owned and operated a family greenhouse in Germany. In the midst of the Cold War, the family lived in Communist East Germany, 60 miles northwest of Berlin.

By 1961, Cold War tensions over Berlin came to a boil. East Germans were dissatisfied with life under the Communist system, and West Berlin served as a gateway to democracy in West Germany. Between 1949 and 1961, over 2.5 million East Germans fled through West Berlin, and by August 1961, an average of 2,000 East Germans were crossing west each day.

Many of these refugees, including the Wolter family, were skilled laborers, professionals and intellectuals with spouses and children, some of whom were still struggling financially post World War II. The travels came to a halt when Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev recommended East Germany close off access between East and West Berlin. This led to the construction of the Berlin Wall. Luckily, this didn’t stop the Wolters from moving. Weeks later, they arrived in America.

“It was the longest trip of a lifetime. We traveled as two adults, three children and one handbag,” Annelis said. “But I was so happy. I’m so happy I did it for my family.”

After the long journey, Annelis and her family began a new start in Pennsylvania, opening Temple Greenhouse in Temple. The greenhouse sold potted plants and flowers, made arrangements and centerpieces for weddings and grew a wide variety of plants, including unique Candlelight poinsettias, which stand much taller than the Visions of Grandeur poinsettias that classically define the holidays.

Annelis’ son, Dieter, now owns and operates the greenhouse, keeping the family business and passion alive. Annelis remembers both Germany and her love for gardening fondly.

“I just like working with the land,” Annelis said “It’s everything just to be outside, to arrange and watch things grow.”

To give her comfort while she was adjusting to her new home at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, Annelis’ son brought her some of their famous poinsettias. She decided to display the plants in one of the campus’ common areas, so residents and visitors could enjoy them throughout the holidays, sharing some of her old memories in her new home.

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Village Voice

Winter 2016

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Trust Services Offer a Reliable Partner Any one of us could suddenly face a disability or the loss of a spouse leading to changes in our ability to handle our finances. Will you know what to do?

You may be able to rely upon your children or a close friend who can act as your power of attorney to handle your affairs. Others rely upon professional advice from a counselor or financial advisor. In many cases, this is the right course to take, but you must be careful about dependence upon a single person for handling all financial affairs. In such circumstances, it may be wise to have a second source of advice to confirm the actions of your primary advisor.

This is in the best interest of both you and your primary advisor for two significant reasons. First, use of a secondary advisor will limit the likelihood of undue influence by any advisor; and second, the secondary advisor will be able to step in at any time to assist you, if needed.

If you don’t have family, friends or advisors you feel you can trust, finding a source of help can be troublesome. To provide you with one potential option, Masonic Villages has engaged the assistance of Everence Trust Company as a resource for our residents and friends with the Masonic Charities. Everence is a nonprofit national trust company that provides its services throughout the country and holds more than $2.5 billion in assets.

When should you consider using Everence?

Here are two recent and authentic stories where Everence was a beneficial resource: Carol is a widow living at Masonic Village and has no children. She has a financial advisor through a large financial institution, but needed another resource to handle her affairs in the event she became disabled. With the help of Masonic Villages’ Office of Gift Planning, Carol reached out to Everence. She established a trust with Everence as her co-trustee and transferred her IRA and other assets to the company so it may manage her assets for her and take care of her financial affairs if anything should happen. Everence will also help handle the estate administration of her assets upon her passing. The cost for managing the assets is about 30 percent less than it was with the financial institution.

Additionally, since Carol is leaving a substantial amount

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of her assets to the Masonic Charities at her passing, the Masonic Villages has agreed to act as a trust protector for Carol to make sure the trustee is doing its job in a diligent manner. With the plan in place, Carol can have peace of mind knowing she will be well taken care of if disaster strikes.

In the second case, Tom and Jean called for advice on their estate plan. They have no children and Jean has dementia. Tom’s greatest concern is if he passes away before Jean, she will not receive the proper care or financial help for the remainder of her life. After connecting with a trust advisor at Everence, within a couple of weeks, Tom established a trust for himself and Jean. The couple also decided to leave a substantial gift to the Masonic Children’s Home in their trust. At their request, Masonic Villages agreed to serve as their trust protector. This plan assured Tom that Jean would be well taken care of if something should happen to him.

These are just two scenarios where a trustee was the right resource. Other cases may involve using Everence as a successor trustee if something should happen to a loved one, close friend or advisor who you have selected as your agent or trustee.

If you are interested in further information on Everence Trust Services, please contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454. Staff are available to assist you wherever you live in the United States. The only requirement is that you must have a minimum of $100,000 in assets in order to take advantage of any trust arrangement due to the cost of managing the trust.

Village Voice

Help Make a Difference Today Through Masonic Compassionate Care More than a century ago, Pennsylvania Freemasons had a vision to create a safe haven for aging Masons, their families, children and the community.

Through the vision leaders had to provide exceptional care within the highest quality environments, offering hope to the hopeless and a life worth living regardless of a person’s ability to pay for the services he or she needed, the Masonic Villages were born.

For more than 140 years, the Masonic Villages have maintained the same mission and purpose for residents across the state through Masonic Compassionate Care.

While residents’ needs remain constant, the gap between one’s ability to afford good care and what medical insurance and government assistance covers has widened.

Health care costs can often exhaust residents’ personal assets, leaving them in need of financial assistance.

Your donations to the Masonic Compassionate Care Fund specifically help cover residents’ nursing or personal care costs and reassure them that essential services will be available to them, even if their assets deplete.

With your support, Masonic Villages’ Mission of Love will continue for another century. Gifts can be directed to: 1. Masonic Compassionate Care Fund – provides benevolent care to residents who have exhausted their financial resources.

2. Masonic Compassionate Care Endowment Fund – the earnings generated by this fund provide a source of continued financial support for benevolent care.

With gifts of cash, we can put your gift to work right away. Or, you may wish to do a planned gift such as a Charitable Gift Annuity, in your Will through a bequest or by other planned gift options which better suit your situation.

Donations for the benefit of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown will be recognized on this beautiful donor recognition wall located at the Masonic Health Care Center. Donations received for the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill, Sewickley and Warminster are recognized on the Mission of Love wall at those locations.

Levels of Support Supporter Caregiver Friend Companion Family Love

$1,000 - $2,999 $3,000 - $24,999 $25,000 - $99,999 $100,000 - $249,999 $250,000 - $499,999 $500,000 and higher

To help Masonic Compassionate Care live on, or if you have any questions, please fill out the enclosed business reply envelope or contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454 or giving@masonicvillages.org.

Financial information about Masonic Charities can be obtained by contacting us at 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, 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 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 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, 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.

Winter 2016

continued on next page 25

A Lasting Impact In 1914, at age 3, Dr. Dorothea Ilgen Shaffer moved to the Masonic Children’s Home and lived there with her brother until she graduated from high school. She passed away at age 101 in 2012, leaving a surprise donation of $10.9 million to the place that took her in when she was just a child.

The child care workers who served from 1914 to 1927, when Dr. Shaffer graduated from the program, had a lasting impact on her life, encouraging her to pursue further education and give to causes close to her heart.

Her gift recognizes the quality of care she received and will help provide daily necessities for current residents of the children’s home, as well as higher education after high school.

“This gift will help youth for many years to come, giving them a chance to pursue opportunities they otherwise wouldn’t have,” Cindy Phillips, executive director of Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, said. “To think, a child who grew up here in 1914 would one day help provide for kids she’ll never meet.”

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Dr. Shaffer earned her bachelor’s degree in design from Syracuse University and her master’s degree from Penn State University. She also completed graduate work at Lebanon Valley College, University of Pennsylvania, University of Mexico and the University of Bogota Columbia in South America.

Dr. Shaffer taught art in the Harrisburg Area School District. She also participated in many civic organizations and served on various boards, including as honorary trustee for both Messiah College and Syracuse University at the time of her death. She was a life member of the Royal Society of Art in London.

A plaque in Dr. Shaffer’s memory has been installed at the children’s home. It is inscribed with Nelson Mandela’s words, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Above photo: Girls of the Masonic Children’s Home, 1917.

Dr. Dorothea Ilgen Shaffer is circled.

Village Voice

Memorial Gifts

August 1 - October 31, 2015

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, contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454; 717-367-1121, ext. 33003; or by emailing giving@masonicvillages.org. Thank you.

The following memorial was listed incorrectly in the Fall 2015 issue of the Village Voice. We apologize for this error Harry D. and Lillian M. Stoyer Robert Stoyer Harry J. Abrams Sherwood Lennartson June Adams Florence James Wingard R. Emmert Aldinger, Sr. Miriam M. Aldinger John L. Allen Joan Allen Krick Clarence A. Ayers Thelma L. Ayers Harriet Z. Bachman Allen S. Zimmerman Beverly A. Baker George E. Baker, Jr. Joan R. Baker Friends of Alex Rhodes at TPN - Danielle, Julia, Robin and Weldon William W. Baltzer Elizabeth R. Baltzer Betty A. Baroni Gus and Jeannine CrummyFye Janet C. Lyons Daniel and Kelly Reitz Delbert and Shirley Reitz William and Alyson Reitz Ermajean (Cookie) Beam Gerald C. Beam

Erla M. Beddow Hugh F. Beddow John E. Berger Marie Virginia Andrews Hack and Jill Bucks Vicki L. Gillmore Masonic Village Travel Club James E. Bohr Peter and Darlee Bohr Charles E. Bone Whitfield Lodge No. 622 Marianne Bowman Vic, Meera and Nalin Sood and their Families Helen M. Brookhart Donald and Patricia March Barbara G. Brown Jim R. Heckman Doris A. Herr Fae L. Kline Masonic Village Travel Club Carl and Neda Mae Wert Jacquelyne (Jackie) Brubaker Harold E. Brubaker Laura J. Carroll Laura J. Boyce Daniel B. Carroll William J. Carroll Fern E. Cathcart Ramesh and Bhanu Shah Gaylon C. Cathcart Michael and Barbara Cathcart Robert J. Cathers Mary Conclave Knights of the Red Cross of Constantine

William H. Chapman Harriet Kabo Chapman David Chern Nona E. Chern Bob and Floss Clemens Michael and Ruth Ann Jadick Richard E. Coulter Frances E. Coulter Robert and Hazel Cramer Lee and Alice Brubaker Deceased Past Masters Eureka Lodge No. 290 Luisa DeChellis Carmen V. DeChellis Robert C. Deiss McKinley-Stuckrath Lodge No. 318 O. Luther Dixon Jean E. Dixon W. Ronald Dixon Frackville Lodge No. 737 Laura W. Dove Albert Dove Robert (Bob) T. Dudley Robert and Joan Bower Charles and Linda Graham Harry and Saretta Hodge Linda L. Miller David Spaar Leonard and Kathleen Spaar Audrey S. Stroup A. Preston and Brenda Van Deursen Carl and Neda Mae Wert

Winter 2016

Regina T. Dufner Francis and Barbara Dufner Horace S. Dyer, Jr. Sally I. Dyer James L. Eakin Jacqueline R. Eakin Lee Eck Edmund and Darlene Ludwig Irvin W. Edler Charlotte K. Edler Elizabeth F. Egge Robert P. Egge Dorothy A. Ehleiter William C. Ehleiter, Jr. Doris S. Elanjian Paul Elanjian Edward E. Ellefson Lorena L. Ellefson George A. Emrick Edna E. Emrick Richard E. Enck Esther A. Enck James (Jay) L. Ernette David W. Berry Richard and Nancy Brickley John and Caroline Bushwack Mr. and Mrs. Frank Chladny Anthony and Pamela Demezza Wayne H. Freed Donald and Debra Green Harr Family - Brian and Alexis and Dennis and Bonnie continued on next page

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Mary T. Harrison Keith and Donna Impink Robin S. Jennings Kattan-Ferretti Insurance Agency Bill and Helena Kelly Mark and Joyce Markosky Paul and Susan

McCommons Mr. and Mrs. S. P. Mellon Joseph and Barbara Murphy Barbara H. Nakles Retired State Police Association of

Pennsylvania, Inc. William and Elizabeth Rosa Frank and Patricia Schimizzi Gerald and Peggy Shepler Howard and Vicki Silbaugh Slater Funeral Service Richard and Carol Stemmler Richard and Joanna Stillwagon Regis J. Synan James L. Tito Clair Ward, Bryan Williams and Ella G. James Wehrheim Samuel C. Williamson Blaine and Audrey Winfield Jack R. Eshenour Catherine E. Eshenour Yvonne M. Fafata Robert J. Fafata Edna H. Falk Steve Backels Thomas and Elaine McDevitt Patricia R. Sullivan George A. Ferguson Irene L. Ferguson Harry L. Fisher, Sr. William and Judith Fisher Charity L. Founds Barry and Mary Founds Barbara Lydia Frantz Robert A. Frantz Nancy Mae Garcia Nicolos and Marlayna DiMaggio Mr. and Mrs. Robert Meneely

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Herbert G. Glunt Eureka Lodge No. 290 Flora Godshall Guzzi Family Bill and Barrie Owens Elizabeth J. Goettle William and Marjorie Goettle Larry V. Goodling Darryl and Dorothy Goodling Rose A. Gurreri Michael and Maria McKee A. Preston and Brenda Van Deursen Ronald and Carol Zinn Gilbert L. Goudy Matthew R. Hubler George E. Graefe, Jr. Mary C. Graefe Kenneth and Betty Greenfield Richard and Geraldine Miller Irvin R. Greenlee Eureka Lodge No. 290 Robert G. Griffith Marguerite H. Griffith Stephen Griffith Bertram and Patsy Griffith Martin J. Grochowski Marion W. Grochowski Paula J. Gross George and Beverly Gross Harry E. Hartshorn Thomas R. Hartshorn Charles (Chuck) E. Harzer 1956 Classmates of Patricia Harzer Ann M. Colangelo Greg and Glenna Davis Vicki L. Gillmore Megan L. Leitzell Harry and Doris

Longenecker Barry Lee Hassinger Joan L. Hassinger John P. Healey Tim and Lisa Bright Betty J. Hemperly William R. Hemperly, Jr. Sidney S. Hersh Joel H. Hersh

Frank B. Hess Whitfield Lodge No. 622 Elaine Hileman William P. Hileman Robert and Evelyn Wheeler Michael and Judy Wright Rodger and Judy Wyland Nevin H. Hillegass James N. Hillegass Burton and Grace Hineline Todd L. Hineline Isadore Hoffman Hackenburg Mount Moriah Lodge No. 19 Lewis H. Hoffman Frackville Lodge No. 737 John (Jack) E. Johnson Ted and Meg Lichtenwalner A. Preston and Brenda Van Deursen Leonard A. Juliani, Sr. Marcella E. Juliani Tim Karcewski Andrew and Doris Zelez Jane V. Kennelly Ralph and Elizabeth Davis A. Preston and Brenda Van Deursen Joseph S. Kish McKinley-Stuckrath Lodge No. 318 Claire E. Kistler Beverly Schweitzer Albert and Mary Kling Albert B. and R. Glee Kling J. Walter Knoblock Doric Lodge No. 630 Frank H. Kohne Doric Lodge No. 630 Arlene M. Koppenhaver Dean E. Koppenhaver Donald S. Kramer Patsy A. Inners Craig A. Kratzer Gary G. Kratzer Preston J. Layfield Jim R. Heckman Ted and Meg Lichtenwalner Whitey and Arlene Von Nieda

Village Voice

Margie L. Leonard Clarence F. Leonard Dominick Lizzi David and Alda K. Lizzi, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Edward R. Lloyd Christine Petrucci Edna Kay Loichinger Raymond J. Loichinger Sarah Jean Luebbe Harry C. Luebbe, Jr. Paul W. Lutz, Sr. Whitfield Lodge No. 622 Kenneth C. and Pauline L. March Donald and Patricia March Catherine (Kay) E. Marion Joseph and Thelma Backo Anna Mae Erbe Marcia A. Marion Catherine (Kitty) Mark Clifford K. Mark Arthur Markowitz Hackenburg Mount Moriah Lodge No. 19 James R. Martz James H. Thomas Ned A. Masenheimer Robert and Rosemarie Carthew Jean P. Liberatore Ted and Meg Lichtenwalner Donald and Patricia March Paul H. Mazerov Frank M. Mauro, Jr. Henry H. and Ruth Ellen McCague Robert and Nancy McCague Andy McClain Theresa A. McClain Robert S. McKrell Eureka Lodge No. 290 H. James McLaren, Sr. Frackville Lodge No. 737 Robert W. Meixsell Whitfield Lodge No. 622 Paul E. Meyers Donald C. Meyers Louis (Lou) D. Miller, Jr. Masonic Village Travel Club Julia L. Siipple A. Preston and Brenda Van Deursen

Ruth Miller Friendship Chapter No. 551, OES William H. Miller Donald and Shirley Miller Harry S. Mills H. Sinclair and Elizabeth Mills, Jr. Ethel B. Milroy Robert and Rosemarie Carthew Daniel S. Minehart Verna S. Minehart Harry A. Minehart Verna S. Minehart Richard A. Minehart Verna S. Minehart William Morris Southampton Square Club Carole S. Morrow Art and Shirley Rowley Frederick P. Mueller, Jr. Southampton Square Club Frank Murawski Lorraine J. Murawski Gertrude K. Myers Charles L. Myers James C. Nickle Thomas and Terry Kamerzel James A. Nitz Ruth A. Nitz Sonya Kay Olson James and Gloria Olson Marjorie A. Pacitti Richard J. Pacitti, Sr. George W. Plesko McKinley-Stuckrath Lodge No. 318 Martin H. Pollock Hackenburg Mount Moriah Lodge No. 19 Daniel Portnoy Nona E. Chern Martha Jane Radcliff Janice H. Corson John and Judith Haines Lawrence and Beatrice Hebling Ronald and Dolores Jones Sara E. Jones Harry and JoAnn Kern

Gordon and Linda Kimble Michael and Elizabeth Kostick Gail Krueger Miriam C. Radcliff John and Margaret Rauchut Charles A. Sines Dale and Glenna Taylor Paul C. Reber Richard M. Reber Clifford E. Reed, Sr. Osceola Lodge No. 515 Lois M. Reese Kenneth T. Reese Mildred O. Reilly Donald and Pamela Allegretto Tom and Elaine Chambers Robert and Judith Cosgriff Virginia Cosgriff Alice R. Crowthers Robert and Patricia Edge Pete and Betty Ferrario Maryjane Hahn Bernard and Kathleen Johns John and Deidra Noland Harry and Gay Page Rick and Diane Ralston Patricia A. Underwood Ken and Arta Williams Carol S. Worley William and Anna Richards William R. Richards Clarence B. Richwine David and Carol Richwine Stephen Rituper Warren and Helen

Heidelbaugh Herbert S. Rogers Doric Lodge No. 630 Gregg Roth Twila E. Shreffler Stanley H. Roth Marlene Roth Elizabeth Rothgaber Hershey Chapter No. 509, OES Thomas F. Rothwell Masonic Village Travel Club G. Edward and Rowena Morelock

Lillian B. Sanders C. Vernon Sanders, Jr. William F. Scheible Lois V. McDevitt Helen M. Schleeter Lynwood D. Schleeter Ruth Schleeter Lynwood D. Schleeter John P. Schneider Ronald E. Schneider Hugh R. Scott John and Audrey Scott Kenneth A. Seamans Kay M. Seamans Clair D. Shearer Ralph and Elizabeth Davis George B. Sheasley Anna K. Sheasley James Shepard John and Patricia Grubb Art and Shirley Rowley Ian B. Shields Miriam K. Shields Millie Sinopoli Henry and Jocelyn Sinopoli Donald G. Sirianni, Sr. Dr. Dominy and Panda Bear Pediatrics Gloria F. La Noce Mr. and Mrs. Gregory M. Rowe James C. Size Mary Ann Size Don E. Smith George Detwiler Ted and Meg Lichtenwalner David L. McGuckin Janet D. Smoker Richard M. and Joann Snyder, Jr. Helen G. Smith Ray E. Henry, Jr. William E. Snyder Sylvia A. Mummert Richard T. Sokol Eureka Lodge No. 290 Robert Spangenberg Larry and Carol Wolford Dominic F. Sposito Frackville Lodge No. 737

Winter 2016

Lawrence H. Strayer P. Sidney Strayer Melvin P. Strayer P. Sidney Strayer Harry Homer Stuart, Jr. Scott A. Stuart Joseph N. Succop, II Sandra P. Snyder Dale R. Taylor Douglas J. Taylor John Taylor Douglas J. Taylor Milos P. Tumabas Robert and Milica Knepp Richard L. Walkup, Sr. Linda H. Walkup George D. Walter William H. Walter Herman Walters David and Alice Bechtel Rodney C. Ward Whitfield Lodge No. 622 Elvin M. Warner, Jr. Leatrice A. Warner Sherwood F. Watts Judith A. Harris Yolanda N. Weider Wanda E. Roth E. Nelson Weir N. Bruce Weir Robert W. Wellington Southampton Square Club Charles W. Wiener Doris A. Wiener David E. Winter Loretta M. Winter Zoe E. Wolfe Ronald and Jean Finglass Rita Zampetti Masonic Village at Dallas Residents Association Glenn Zeigenfuse Jane E. Zeigenfuse Harold J. Zell Charles and Ethel Zell

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Honorarium Gifts August 1 - October 31, 2015

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 emailing giving@masonicvillages.org. Thank you.

M.V. Transportation and Drivers John R. Rapp Jennifer Berlet and the Masonic Wellness Center Staff Hack and Jill Bucks Music Therapy Program Masonic Village Travel Club Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill Staff Bill and Barrie Owens Russ and Faye Baker’s 50th Anniversary Dick and Cathy Eby Larry and Carol Wolford

Alma F. Casaro Verizon Foundation Darwin G. Chilcote Arthur L. Dinger Patton School Class of ‘47 Graduates Richard L. Bowman Glen Copper Marlin L. Reitz Jane Craighead E. Elizabeth Foyle William and Dorothy Whitlock

McClain Families Theresa A. McClain Marie Massa Michael and Rebecca Maxwell Harry and Marge McCarty Kenneth and Elaine Bleiler Carl and Sally Olnick Timothy and Irene Olnick Ella Pedersen Lewis C. Shaw (Pop Pop) Joyce Richart William and Dorothy Whitlock

William M. and Gilda B. Sayres Wendy Riggall A. Preston Van Deursen Stuart and Barbara Brown Joyce K. Wadsworth Francis and Barbara Dufner Leann L. Weaver Stuart and Barbara Brown

Hospice Care Memorial Gifts August 1 - October 31, 2015

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.

Margaret M. Balmer Eleanor L. Wolf Helen M. Brookhart Donald and Patricia March Richard A. Burgert, Sr. Arlene Huss Arthur and Louella Kightlinger

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Chris King Curt and Lily King Dave and Shannon King Doug and Lori King Sondra B. King Steven and Kathleen Kresge Timothy and Tammy Nickel Osborne Family - Nathan, Jill and Cassie

Dorothy F. Burket Barbara B. Likens John F. Burket, Jr. Barbara B. Likens Ruth Cagnoli Doris M. Novinger Anthony Caputzal Mariann Aversano Kristina and Walter Bach Abraham and Susan Baker

Village Voice

Patricia Catlow Alan Cohen Rosemarie Emmerich Jim and Kim Foote Linda Hoffmeister Tim and Michelle Larkin Philip and Sally Murray Joseph and Danielle Puglia Purdue Pharmaceuticals LP

Fern E. Cathcart Kenneth C. and Pauline L. Michael Cathcart Family March Lida K. Hail Donald and Patricia March Dorothy L. Condran Ned A. Masenheimer Mary Lou Bear Anonymous Martha L. Frailey Dale and Anna Mae Alwine Gregory Frailey Broadway Cares/Equity Steven Graybill Fights Aids, Inc. Avis Ann Bryan J. David and Linda Jo Edward W. Gresch Cartwright Susan Schliminger Richard Costa Vivian Mae Hartman Christine L. D’orsie James Britting and Barbara George W. and Carla Hershey Britting Fishel, Jr. James and Judy Hershey Robert and Marilyn Forney Charles and Regina Sheller E. Mareece Gibbs Paul Hershey and Donna Jeanne B. Herr Hershey Spitler Paul and Sandra Hershey Patricia Hershey Williams David and Martha Herting George H. Harvey Drew and Joyce Leister William and Janet Shultz Elwood and Shirley Leister Evelyn J. Holberg Donald and Patricia March Jennifer Rutledge Fred and Elizabeth Jack R. Hughes Masenheimer Rodney and Sally Thompson Gene and Nancy McMillen John E. Johnson Verna Minehart Ted and Meg Lichtenwalner William and Barbara Philip C. Keller Moncuse Cost Company Curtis Moore Mary H. Leisey Pencor Services, Inc., Kimberly Leisey Employees Mona Maitland Clair and Joan Rau Mary Lou Bear Martha K. Schaeffer Diana Millman Robert and Carolyn Southern Lehigh Education Shankland Association Brian and Jessica Shultz and Southern Lehigh School Family District Administrators George and Cindy Shultz Southern Lehigh School Robert and Diane Smith District Central Office C. H. Sourber, Jr. Staff Arthur and Dorothy Wert Staff at Joseph P. Liberati Intermediate School

Marian L. McElwain Triangle Chapter No. 483, OES C. Scott and Diane Buchart Mary S. Buchart Rodney and Catherine Runkle Raymond J. Meyers Raymond and Sharon Meyers, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Carmen J. Mollichella Mr. and Mrs. Philip V. Mollichella Louis D. Miller Chuck and Julie Boll Doris M. Ecklund Robert and Marilyn Forney David and Deborah Hinton William and Elaine Johnson William and Lois Kulp Elaine M. Miller Audrey S. Stroup Ethel B. Milroy Nancy E. Bell Phil and Nancy Borchert Violet Hubler Howard and Doris Loscig Elizabeth U. Putt Ronald and Susan Berman Kenneth and Ann Hoover Lynn B. Kreider William M. Reilly, Jr. Mary Anne Curran Rosemary Curran Leonard and Eileen Laabs Edwin and Kristen Lemley Hans and Doreen Moosa Lynn and Rebecca Schmitt Stephen Rituper Stephen M. Rituper

Winter 2016

Nancy Sanger Joseph and Brenda Amoroso Robert Focht Peggy Miller John and Leeann Stewart Richard H. Shertzer Nancy Hivner Judith A. Simon Joseph W. Simon Don E. Smith Stuart and Barbara Brown Gene and Nancy McMillen H. Barton Stone Lynda S. Irvin Helen Josie (Adam) Stone Lynda S. Irvin Nancy B. Tondora Sekhar and Lisa

Ramaswamy

Hospice Care Honorarium Gifts Masonic Village Hospice Team Joseph W. Simon Timothy A. Nickel Donald and Patricia March Val Williams Stephen M. Rituper

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Masonic Villages One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown, PA 17022

Honoring Heroes

NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT NO. 63 Mechanicsburg, PA

American heroes were honored on Veterans Day across the Masonic Villages.

We thank all veterans for their service and sacrifice.

In Sewickley, a program included the Ambridge High School ROTC Silent Drill Team performing its precision routine and a children’s choir singing familiar patriotic songs, as well as other surprises.

Check out these photos for more Veterans Day highlights from around the state.

In Lafayette Hill, the Warriors’ Watch Riders visited the campus and provided veterans with a certificate recognizing their service.

In Elizabethtown, a parade line full of staff, visitors and kindergartners from the Hildebrandt Learning Center at Masonic Village cheered on and thanked 60 resident veterans from the Masonic Health Care Center as they entered a special Salute to Our Veterans program featuring singing and remembrance. A program in the Brossman Ballroom included the March Masters; speaker Col. Ken Womack, U.S. Air Force (Ret.); and other events to honor our flag, country and veterans.

The Massing of the Colors memorial, featuring nearly 7,000 flags honoring each soldier who has died in combat since 9/11, was displayed near the Veterans Grove in Elizabethtown throughout November.