The Pennsylvania

May 2014 edition vol. Lx1 no. 2

Celebrating First Responders

THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON

VOL. LXI, MAY 2014, NO. 2

2014 The R.W. Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Pennsylvania

Inside this Issue...

EDITORIAL BOARD
Chairman
Robert J. Bateman, R.W.G.M.
Raymond T. Dietz, R.W.D.G.M.
S. Eugene Herritt, R.W.S.G.W.
Thomas Gamon, IV, R.W.J.G.W.
Jeffrey W. Coy, R.W.G.T.
Mark A. Haines, R.W.G.S.
EDITORIAL STAFF
Tina L. Raybold - Production Coordinator
Rich Johnson - Graphic Designer
Thomas R. Labagh - Executive Director, PMYF,
Consultant
Masonic Library & Museum of Pennsylvania Staff
(Publication No. USPS 426-140) May 2014 Issue of The
Pennsylvania Freemason Published quarterly by the
Masonic Villages, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown,
PA 17022. Articles and photographs to be considered
for publication should be sent with local Masonic
authority to the address above, to the attention of The
Pennsylvania Freemason or emailed to pafreemason@
masonicvillages.org. Except by special arrangement, all
articles, photographs and artwork become the property of
the Grand Lodge.
Published by the Masonic Villages, owned and operated
by the Grand Lodge of F. & A. M. of Pennsylvania, as a
means of soliciting the physical and financial support
of the members, their families and the public in general.
Periodical postage is paid at Elizabethtown, Pa., and
additional mailing offices.

3 Grand Lodge

Grand Masters Message

Change for the Troops
In Memoriam
Grand Masters Charity Golf Tournaments
Congratulations to ...
Annual Grand Communication Highlights
December Quarterly Communication Highlights
June Quarterly Communication Announced

10 Lodge and District

We appreciate the many submissions we receive for

consideration. We apologize, but due to space constraints
we are not able to publish every submission we receive.

Random Acts of Kindness & Community Service

Florida Masonic Reunions
Feature: Bro. J. Kevin Jones, D.D.G.M.
Lodge & District Happenings

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP

18 Freemason

(Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39,

United States Code) May 1, 2014, The Pennsylvania
Freemason , published quarterly by the Masonic
Villages, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Publishers: The
Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and
Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of
Pennsylvania. Editor: Robert J. Bateman. Owner: The
Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and
Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of
Pennsylvania. Known bondholders: none. No advertising
handled. Free distribution averages 124,000 each quarter.
I certify that the statements made by me are correct and
complete.

Robert J. Bateman, Editor

Mailing address changes

If your address on the back cover of this magazine is not

exactly as you have provided it to us, please be aware that
addresses are modified through the various mailing process
requirements required by the U.S. Postal Service. If you
have any questions or would like to inform us of a change in
address, please contact the Office of Gift Planning at
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Postmaster: Send address changes to:

The Pennsylvania Freemason, c/o Masonic Village,
One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022-2199.

Masonic Book Review

Gift Planning for a Future
Autumn Day 2014 - An Eternal Flame

22 PA Masonic Youth Foundation

LifeSkills Conference Builds Leaders

Rainbow & Jobies Events
Pennsylvania DeMolay Honors Uncle Ralph
Planting Seeds to Grow Masonic Youth

25 Masonic Villages

Growing to Meet Needs

Bro. Carl Flohr: A Mason on a Mission
Phillips Named Executive Director
2014 Wish List Items

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Dear Brethren and Ladies,

It looks like spring has finally sprung. I hope everyone has survived the snowy months of
winter to welcome the warmth and beauty of spring.
Freemasonry in Pennsylvania has been very busy, and it feels good to see our lodges engaged
in new and exciting activities. We have presented eight new District Deputy Grand Masters
throughout the state, and attended a baby shower for our military families at Joint Base McGuireDix-Lakehurst, N.J., in March. We are enjoying our family nights, our open houses and planning
one day classes.
Brethren, dont forget it is the goal of this administration that every Masonic lodge in
Pennsylvania increases membership while maintaining current membership in both 2014 and
2015. Worshipful Masters, you need to make sure that your membership retention committees are
working hard to assure that our brethren who have been suspended for nonpayment of dues and
those brethren who have resigned in the past three years have been contacted. We need to let
them know what opportunities they and their families have lost and how easy it is to be reinstated
into our fraternity. Let them know how much they are missed and that they are not forgotten.
Remember, if a lodge increases its membership in 2014 and 2015 while maintaining its
current membership, the lodge will receive $50 from Grand Lodge for every new member who has
been raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason, or for any brother who transfers into their
lodge from another jurisdiction, increasing the membership above what it was at the beginning of
the year. Also, if a member is the first-line signer on a petition, his name will go into a pool to be
eligible for a grand prize drawing of a gift card in the amount of $1,000. There will also be second
and third place drawings for gift cards in the amount of $500 each. A member will be permitted
to put his name into the pool for each of the petitions for which he was first-line signer. The
drawings will take place at the December Quarterly Communications in 2014 and 2015.
All first-line signers on a petition will receive a sun shade for the windshield of his vehicle as
my personal gift. I ask you to please use this sun shade every time you park your vehicle.
Please remember our Masonic youth groups. We need to support and get involved with our
future. Every Masonic district in this Commonwealth that has a DeMolay chapter, Jobs Daughters
bethel, or Rainbow for Girls assembly will appoint at least three members of the lodge to attend
their meetings, get involved with their programs and support their dreams. I encourage districts
that do not have a Masonic youth group to attend the meetings of a youth group in a district close
to them. If your district does not have a Masonic youth group, consider sponsoring one, or better
yet, all three.
An eternal flame will be installed at the Veterans Grove at the Masonic Village at
Elizabethtown. This eternal flame is to pay homage to all active military, our veterans and all
those heroes who gave their lives for our freedom. We will be celebrating this event at Autumn
Day 2014. Further information as to how you can support this effort is on p. 21 of this magazine.
Brethren, if we want Masonry to grow, we should nurture it with brotherly love and affection;
use the blueprints and designs from the past, the tools of the present and our dreams to build the
future for our great fraternity. Brethren, WE are the builders of our Masonic future, and I believe
it is about time that we all get to work. God bless the United States of America, God bless our
great and beloved fraternity, and God bless all of you.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Robert J. Bateman
R.W. Grand Master

As exhibited on the cover

of this issue, we, as Pennsylvania
Freemasons, have dedicated our
programming during the month of
May to honoring and celebrating
our first responders,
who put their lives
on the line daily to
ensure our safety.

4 GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason

Photography by Bro. Brian Richards

CHANGE FOR THE TROOPS

PREVIOUSLY HELP FOR OUR HEROES

Above: Attendees of the March 8 Military Baby Shower Below: Attendees at the December Military Christmas party, l-r: Bro. Danny Hinds, Aide to the
Grand Master; Lt. Col. Todd E. Randolph, USAF; Bro. Charles Holloway, D.D.G.M.-C; Grand Master Robert J. Bateman; Col. and Bro. Harris Brooks;
Col. Charles E. Coursey, U.S. Army and Joint Base Deputy Commander; CMSgt. Phillip K. Robinson, USAF; and Senior Grand Warden S, Eugene Herritt

Spreading Holiday Cheer

For the second year, in December 2013,
your donations funded a Christmas party
for military families with children with
special needs at Joint Base McGuire-DixLakehurst. Attendees enjoyed a sit-down
dinner, antics by Masonic clowns and a visit
from Santa Claus, who of course brought
gifts for all of the children. Change for the
Troops has already committed to funding
the event again this year.

We also provided, at no charge, use of

the Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center for
a Christmas party for the children of our
Pennsylvania National Guard soldiers who
were deployed from Western Pennsylvania.
Bros. P.J. Roup, D.D.G.M.-54, and Samuel
C. Williamson, R.W. Past Grand Master,
helped at the event, and were so touched
by the experience, they want to host the
event again this year.

Assisting Veterans
R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman
has expanded the Change for the Troops
program to include assisting our service
people and veterans with disabilities, both
those who are physically injured and those
with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Masons who are licensed contractors
have been helping dependents of deployed
Pennsylvania Guardsmen and Guardswomen
with reconstruction and repairs on their
homes while they have been away. We
are expanding this program to help our
veterans with physcal disabilities return
to their homes.
McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey
asked if we would provide assistance to The
Veterans Group in South Philadelphia.
Established in 2007, The Veterans Group
provides food, shelter and case management
for homeless veterans and their families.
The shelter has grown to house up to 48
men who suffer from PTSD and helps them
to rebuild a self-sufficient life. Recently, the
base provided volunteers to fix up and paint
the facility; we provided all the paint and
supplies for the project (see letter on p. 5).

GR AND LODGE 5

May 2014

The Pennsylvania Air National Guard Station in Horsham, Pa.,

has been tasked to work with the Veterans Administration to start a
veterans assistance program. We will assist this group in many areas.
In February, we were asked to help an airman preparing to deploy whose
parents house burned down. Bro. Tom Long, Brotherhood Lodge No. 126,
Philadelphia, immediately contacted the airman and provided assistance
in dealing with their insurance company. We are also providing the air
station funding for exercise equipment for a new, supervised therapeutic
gym for veterans and service people with disabilities.
Sir,
On behalf of my wife and myself, I would just like to say thank you for
the giant blessing of the baby shower that we were able to attend. Words
cant describe how thankful and gracious we are for all the wonderful
unexpected gifts. On March 17, my wife gave birth to a beautiful baby girl,
7 lbs., 10 oz. Thank you for all that you did for us as well as for others.


SSgt. Aaron M. Richards

Vehicle Maintenance Craftsman

Military Baby Showers

Among the attendees of the March 8 Baby Shower at Joint Base
McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst were two couples having twins and one young
mom expecting five babies. After the shower, Col. and Bro. Jon Spares
retirement ceremony was held.
The Horsham Air National Guard Station will be holding its first
baby shower in May with parents from both the Army and Air Guard
from Central to Eastern Pennsylvania.

Grand Master Bateman presents a special gift to a father expecting quintuplets.

Colonel Brooks,
My name is 1Lt Bill Stainback, and I am in the 2nd Air
Refueling Squadron at McGuire AFB. I got your email from
Matt Dunphy at The Veterans Group. I was recently in charge
of a service project that took volunteers from my squadron to
The Veterans Group in Philadelphia. I understand that you
donated the money that purchased the supplies that allowed
for us to paint and clean the facilities on site.
I just wanted to let you know how grateful I am for your
generosity. Your donation allowed us to improve the living
conditions at The Veterans Group home and be effective
during the time we had to volunteer. ... The Veterans Group
is a great organization, but they were short on funding, and
at one point, it looked like we might have to cancel since they
didn't have the supplies we needed to help them out. Your
donation saved the day, and we had a great time helping out
fellow veterans and getting involved in a great cause.
We formed great relationships, and I think that some of
the members of the 2nd will be returning on their own time
to help out some more. Thanks again for your generosity.
It really did mean a lot to The Veterans Group and to the
members of my squadron.
Very Respectfully,
Bill C. Stainback, 1Lt, USAF
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J.

In Memoriam

6 GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason

Ron F. Tunison (1947-2013)

Ron F. Tunison died Oct. 19, 2013, at his home in Cairo, N.Y. He was the artist and sculptor
of our beloved Friend to Friend Masonic Memorial at Gettysburg.
Mr. Tunison was a prolific artist, sculpting hundreds of monuments, plaques and busts
including noted sports figures. He created four monuments at Gettysburg alone: The General
Crawford Monument, near Little Round Top; the Friend to Friend Masonic Memorial in the
National Cemetery Annex; the Delaware State Memorial; and the Elizabeth Thorn Womens
Memorial in the Evergreen Cemetery, on the other side of the National Cemetery Annex.
He was a devoted husband of Alice (celebrating their 40th anniversary) and father of three
very talented children.

Rev. Bro. David L. Kinsey (1940-2014)

Rev. and Bro. David L. Kinsey, 33, Grand Chaplain, passed Feb. 6, 2014, at the age of 73.
He is survived by his wife, Peg; children Laura, Leslie and David F.; and six grandchildren.
Bro. Kinsey was made a Master Mason in South Hills Lodge No. 761 in 1958. He graduated
from the University of Pittsburgh while stationed in Ft. Hood, Texas.
He served as Potentate and Chaplain of Syria Shrine and served as Chaplain of Mid-Atlantic
Shrine Association and as Imperial Chaplain. On July 7, 2010, Bro. Kinsey was named Shriner of
the Year of North America. He was also a member of the Valley of Pittsburgh; Knights Templar;
Royal Order of Scotland; Caravan 2, 4, 18 and 20; Jesters Court No. 2; and Three Rivers Clan
No. 3.
In 1969, Bro. Kinsey and his father purchased Kinsey Electric, Inc., Oakdale, Pa., of which
he served as President. He was ordained as a priest in 1978. In 1985, Bro. Kinsey was named
Clergy Person of the Year. He retired from St. Thomas Episcopal Church in 1994, where he
served while also running Kinsey Electric. On Feb. 5, 2012, Rev. Kinsey was called to serve as
Priest at St. Stephens Episcopal Church in McKeesport.

GRAND MASTERS CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENTS

June 24, 2014
LuLu Country Club North Hills, PA
Benefits Masonic Charities
Fee: $145 per golfer
10 a.m. Registration
11 a.m. Lunch
Noon Shotgun Start
5 p.m. Social Hour
6 p.m. Dinner & Awards
To play or sponsor, contact:
William J. Greet
2125 Parkdale Avenue
Glenside, PA 19038-5321
Cell 215-990-6497
Email wjgreet@verizon.net

July 17, 2014

Irem Country Club Dallas, PA
Benefits Masonic Charities
Fee: $120 per golfer
11 a.m. Lunch
Noon Shotgun Start
4:30-5:30 p.m. Social Hour
5:30 p.m. Dinner & Awards
To play or sponsor, contact:
Grand Masters Golf Tournament
c/o Irem Country Club
397 Country Club Road
Dallas, PA 18612
Phone 570-675-4465 ext. 241
or Ron Aungst, R.W.P.G.M.
Phone 570-295-2560

GR AND LODGE 7

May 2014

Congratulations to
Master Builders Awards

On Dec. 5, 2013, Bro. Gerald Kaltenbach,

Butler Lodge No. 272, was presented with
the Master Builders Award.
Photo 1: Bros. Wayne Frankenstein, D.D.G.M.-26;
Gerald Kaltenbach, Butler Lodge No. 272; Allen
Housholder, Harmony Lodge No. 429, Zelienople;
and Gerald Wetzel, W.M., Butler Lodge, President
of the Masonic School of Instruction for District 26.
On Dec. 12, 2013, Bro. John J. Nusida, Jr.,
Charleroi Lodge No. 615, was presented the
Master Builders Award.
Photo 2: Bros. Robert C. Robison, W.M.; John
Nusida; and Robert A. Farquhar, D.D.G.M.-31.
On Jan. 9, the Master Builders Award was
presented to Bros. Michael J. Smith and
Todd L. Wolfe, both of Union Lodge No.
324, Mifflintown.
Photo 3: Bros. Cory Snook, W.M.; Todd L. Wolfe;
Michael J. Smith; and Terence I. Elliott, D.D.G.M.-19.

Grand Masters Awards

3

On Dec. 2, 2013, Fayette Lodge No. 228,

Uniontown, was presented its second Grand
Masters Award.
Photo 4: Bros. Franklin D. DeCarlo, W.M.; Robert
A. Farquhar, D.D.G.M.-31; and Kiley B. Sexton,
P.M.
On Feb. 10, Tri-County Lodge No. 252,
Donora, received the Grand Masters Award
from Robert A. Farquhar, D.D.G.M.-31
Photo 5: Bros. Richard C. Black, Jr., P.M.; Robert
A. Farquhar, D.D.G.M.-31; and Ival C. Martin, Jr.,
W.M.

Other Awards

On Jan. 7, Bro. Dwayne E. Welling, King

Solomons Lodge No. 346, Connellsville,
received the Ancient Accepted Scottish
Rite National Medal for Masonic Service,
given to a member who fully embodies the
tenets of Freemasonry including selfless acts
to society at large.
Photo 6: Bros. Jeffrey M. Wonderling, P.D.D.G.M.30; Gerald Sutherland, Westmoreland Lodge No. 518,
Greensburg; Thomas K. Sturgeon, R.W. Past Grand
Master and A.A.S.R. Active; Dwayne E. Welling,
King Solomons Lodge No. 346, Connellsville;
Richard A. Rodibaugh, Commander-in-Chief of the
Valley of Pittsburgh, A.A.S.R.; Timothy L. Shumar,
D.D.G.M.-30; and Paul E. Burd, Brownsville Lodge
No. 60.

8 GR AND LODGE

Pennsylvania Freemason

Annual Grand
Communication Highlights
Dec. 26-27, 2013 Philadelphia, PA

Distinguished Guests
Then-Grand Master Jay W. Smith was
pleased to receive distinguished guests from
14 Grand Jurisdictions and 18 Masonic bodies.
Presentations
R.W. Grand Master Smith received plaques
from Bro. George D. Seghers, Executive
Director of the George Washington Masonic
Memorial; Bro. Earl J. Washburn, Executive
Director of the National Masonic Foundation
for Children; and Bro. George O. Braatz,
Executive Secretary of the Masonic Service
Association and Past Grand Master of Ohio,
for being supportive of the Masonic Service
Association and the Hospital Visitation
Program.
Bro. Braatz presented the Mark Twain
Awareness Award to Jerusalem Lodge No. 506,
Philadelphia, for demonstrating exemplary
work in constructing a positive Masonic
identity within the lodge and community.
Grand Master Smith presented a Bible
to Bro. Richard B. Meredith, Most Excellent
Past Grand High Priest of the Grand Holy
Royal Arch Chapter. He also presented
the Outstanding Service Medal to Bro.
Jeffrey M. Wonderling, P.D.D.G.M.-30, King
Solomons Lodge No. 346, Connellsville; and
the Pennsylvania Franklin Medal to Bro.
Thomas C. Librandi, Prince Edwin-Spring
Creek Lodge No. 486.
Grand Master Smiths Final Address
Grand Master Smith stated the past
two years were a humbling experience. He
appreciated the support provided for his
programs (online Masonic education and Help
for Our Heroes) and the contributions to help
raise in excess of $400,000 for the Masonic
Childrens Homes Centennial Campaign.
Following the installation of the Grand
Lodge officers, including Grand Master Robert
J. Bateman, banquet attendees enjoyed dinner
and entertainment by The Diamonds.

Photography by Bro. Kenneth R. Brooks

Presentations
Grand Master Robert J. Bateman presented
the Pennsylvania Franklin Medal to Bro. Jay
W. Smith, R.W. Past Grand Master, AsharaCasiphia Lodge No. 551, Mount Joy; and Bro.
G. Kent Hackney, P.D.D.G.M.-B, PhiladelphiaPotter Lodge No. 72, Philadelphia.
He also presented Past Grand Master
Smith with his Past Grand Masters Jewel,
Apron, Lapel Pin and a Past Grand Masters
Commission.
Grand Master Bateman was pleased to
make R.W. Past Grand Masters George H.
Hohenshildt and Bro. Ronald A. Aungst, Sr.,
honorary Past District Deputy Grand Masters.
Grand Master Batemans cousin presented
him with a Masonic Army cap. Bro. James
R. Herrington, M.W. Grand Master of the
Grand Lodge of Alaska, presented keepsake
boxes to Grand Master Bateman and Past
Grand Master Smith.
Contributions
Grand Master Bateman was pleased to
accept contributions totaling $10,970 for the
Masonic Charities.
Photos, top-bottom:
Grand Master Smith presents the Outstanding
Service Medal to Bro. Jeffrey M. Wonderling,
P.D.D.G.M.-30.
Grand Master Smith presents the Pennsylvania
Franklin Medal to Bro. Thomas C. Librandi,
Prince Edwin-Spring Creek Lodge No. 486.
Past Grand Master Smith walks out with Grand
Master Bateman, who presented him with the
Pennsylvania Franklin Medal.
Grand Master Bateman presents the Pennsylvania
Franklin Medal to G. Kent Hackney,
P.D.D.G.M.-B.
Grand Master Bateman holds up his new
Masonic Army cap.
Grand Master Bateman and First Lady
Joanne.

GR AND LODGE 9

May 2014

December Quarterly
Communication Highlights

Photography by Bro. Bruce Levin

December 4, 2013 Masonic Temple, Philadelphia

A total of 447 members, representing 194 lodges, attended.

The election of Grand Lodge officers and Committee on Masonic
Homes was conducted.
The following mergers were approved:
1. Woodlawn Lodge No. 672 into St. James Lodge No. 457, Beaver,
effective Dec. 19, 2013.
2. Fernwood Lodge No. 543 with Shekinah Lodge No. 246,
Philadelphia, (now Shekinah-Fernwood Lodge No. 246) effective
Dec. 27, 2013.
3. H. Stanley Goodwin Lodge No. 648 into Bethlehem Lodge No.
283, effective Dec. 27, 2013.
4. Union Lodge No. 334 with Bradford Lodge No. 749 (now Bradford
Union Lodge No. 749, Bradford), effective Dec. 27, 2013.

5. Royersford Lodge No. 585 with Spring City Lodge No. 553 (now
Spring-Ford Lodge No. 553, Royersford), effective Dec. 27, 2013.
Richard A. Heath, P.M., Worshipful Master of the newly
constituted Hamilton Day Lodge No. 814, Stroudsburg, presented
a crystal plaque to Grand Master Jay W. Smith.
Grand Master Smith presented Grand Masters Awards to Lodge
No. 43, Lancaster; Doylestown Lodge No. 245; Columbia Lodge
No. 286, Wrightsville; Jerusalem Lodge No. 506, Philadelphia; and
Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551, Mount Joy.
He also awarded Master Builders Awards to 24 brethren, many
of whom are pictured above.
Grand Master Smith was pleased to accept contributions to
various Masonic charities totaling $228,772.90.

The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania announces the

JUNE QUARTERLY COMMUNICATION

To be held at the Bayfront Convention Center, Erie, Pa., on

SATURDAY, JUNE 21, AT 10 A.M.

Open to all Master Masons.

Lunch will be provided immediately following the meeting. Masonic dress is required.

10 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason

Random Acts of Kindness

& Lodge Community Service
Performing a random act of kindness is a simple way to bond with someone in your community. Community service initiatives are
great for connecting with your neighbors, brothers and even your own family. Sometimes the smallest gestures make the biggest difference
in the lives of others, as well as your own.
Visit www.pagrandlodge.org/rak to enter your random acts of kindness on the registry.
Special Delivery

Bro. Tommy Wynkoop (right) with staff at Foxs

Pizza Den: Carol, cook, and Bert, delivery staff.
When arctic temperatures and snowstorms
hit the state in early January, Bro. Tom Wynkoop,
Ligonier Lodge No. 331 and Tyrian Lodge No.
664, Lower Burrell, wanted to do more than just
deliver pizzas from his shop, Foxs Pizza Den.
He made an announcement on Twitter that
anyone who had respiratory issues and needed
a prescription or anything else picked up should
contact him on his personal cell phone. There
was no requirement to purchase food. About
half a dozen people took him up on his offer.
Its something we do. To me, it was nothing
abnormal. This is our community. You have to
have an invested interest. Love your neighbors,
Bro. Wynkoop said.

Once word of his effort got out in the

community, local and national news stations
picked up the story. A man walked into his
shop and handed him $50. He didnt want a
pizza and just told Bro. Wynkoop he was doing
a good job for the community. People from
around the world began sending donations,
which was a surprise to him since he wasnt
trying to raise money.
Im grateful people have recognized this
act of kindness, he said. The reaction has
been a big shock. Its almost tough to handle it
and remain humble.
Bro. Wynkoop and his staff knew the local
chapter of Meals on Wheels was also delivering
through the winter weather. He matched the
donations he received and presented a check to
Ligonier Meals on Wheels for $2,000. He also
delivered a check for $1,500 to the Ligonier
Township police department for K-9 Officer Blek
and is planning to set up three $500 scholarships
at the Ligonier Valley High School.
His act of kindness is built on a foundation
of morals and values formed through his Masonic
experience, as well as time with the local EMS
and fire department.

When I was younger, I didnt have any

guidance in life. I was at a crossroads and didnt
really know what I wanted in life or what to do,
Bro. Wynkoop said. I met a couple of guys in
my area, who I didnt know at the time were
Masons. They told me I needed structure and
discipline and something to stand for. I came
from a broken home, and my mother had breast
cancer. A lot of older people stepped up and
re-educated me.
To keep the kindness momentum going,
Bro. Wynkoop is taking a proactive approach to
let his community know where to find help. His
drivers constantly have their eyes and ears open
for needs, like a recent example of a woman who
had surgery. Bro. Wynkoop called to see how
she was doing and had a free pizza delivered to
her house. He is having magnets printed with
his personal cell phone and coordinating with
Meals on Wheels to have them handed out to
their clients.
Its fun. I enjoy doing what I do, he said. I
cant do what I do unless I have the right staff to
help me. Im very appreciative for what they do.

LODGE AND DISTRICT 11

May 2014

Saving Lives; Supporting Children

The 1st Masonic Districts semi-annual blood

drive was held Nov. 9, 2013, at the Lancaster
Masonic Center and the Donegal Masonic
Center. The district has been holding semi-annual
blood drives for the past four years to support
the Childrens Dyslexia Center of Lancaster.
Anyone who wanted to donate blood was able to
choose a time and location on the 1st Masonic
District website, www.firstmasonic.org, so there
was very little waiting in line. Walk-ins were
also welcomed.
Any member who donates blood one time
becomes a Masonic Blood Donor Club member
for life, and the member or anyone living under
his roof will never have to pay for blood anywhere
in the world.
The event is a win for members, the dyslexia
center and those needing life-saving blood. The
1st Masonic District has donated more than
$6,500 toward the center through its blood drives.
Helping a Veteran Find a Furry Friend

Watsontown American Legion Post 323 Past

Commander Bro. Eugene E. Kline, Watsontown
Lodge No. 401, presents a check for $500 to
Susquehanna Motorcycle Club President Roger
Kline. Also shown are Bros. Andrew E. Kline and
Shane T. Fausey, both members of Watsontown
Lodge No. 401, Masonic Motorcycle Club Chapter
38 and Watsontown American Legion Post 323.
On Nov. 16, 2013, members of Susquehanna
Motorcycle Club and the Masonic Motorcycle
Club Chapter 38 joined together to raise money
for a wounded soldier.
U.S. Army veteran Josh Schutt, of Milton,
Pa., served in active duty for six years during
which he went on tours in Iraq and one in
Afghanistan. While serving overseas, he was
severely wounded when a .50 caliber machine gun
exploded. Club members organized a motorcycle
ride and an auction, and members and friends

donated food and a DJ. More than 100 motorcycles

were present on that brisk November day. Riders
stopped at the Milton VFW, Turbotville VFW
and Watsontown American Legion before
returning to the Susquehanna Motorcycle Club
for refreshments.
Members of both organizations raised more
than $7,000 in an effort to purchase a service
dog for Josh from Service Dogs for World Peace,
which he has since received. Once the goal was
met, all remaining money was used to start an
account for the next veteran in need of a service
dog. Thanks to everyone who contributed,
donated and participated that day!
Helping Hands Feed
and Clothe Hundreds in Need

Bro. Jeffery Templeton, P.M., helps serve food in

Love Park.
Thanks to Philadelphia-area Masons,
approximately 200 homeless and less fortunate
people received food and clothing at Love
Park in Center City Philadelphia on Nov. 17,
2013. Members and spouses of FriendshipWilliams Lodge No. 400, Jenkintown; Prince
Hall lodges; Star in the East Lodge No. 55;
Widows Son Lodge No. 4, Philadelphia; students
from Arcadia University; and members of the
Warriors Motorcycle Club, a veterans support
group, joined together to make the day a success.
Through the generosity of Cottage Green
and Valley Catering manager Bro. Kevin Evans,
Friendship-Williams Lodge No. 400 was able to
provide hot food for the event. Lodge members
also supplied sandwiches, hot coffee, bottles of
water, cookies and crackers. Toiletries, new or
gently used clothing and socks were also provided.
The event was organized and coordinated
by Friendship-Williams Lodge No. 400; Bro.
Jeffery Templeton, P.M., and his wife, Adrian;
and Bro. Cruz Rivera, Jr., and his wife, Jeanie.

Supporting Scouts

Members of Oakdale Lodge and Boy Scout Troop 248

Oakdale Lodge No. 669 welcomed 40
members of Boy Scout Troop 248, Oakdale, their
troop leader and parents for a special dinner and
program prior to their stated meeting in January.
After moving into the lodge room, Bro.
James F. White, W.M., presented a short talk
about the lodge room and the fraternity. Bro.
Kenneth L. Carr, P.M., Pennsylvania Masonic
Youth Foundation representative, presented
an overview of the LifeSkills and LifeChangers
conferences. Bro. Warren H. Byers, J.W., gave
an outline of the Masonic CHIP and presented
a monetary donation to a youth scout leader.
In recent years, Oakdale Lodge has presented
certificates and letters from the Grand Lodge to
newly promoted Eagle Scouts, hoping it will be
able to strengthen its ties to this great scouting
organization and community. The guests had
many great questions about Freemasonry, and
it was an enriching evening. There was lots of
laughter when one scout asked, Why do those
guys have swords? The event concluded with
dessert in the social room.

Bros. David A. McDade, J.W., Youth Committee

Chairman, and Edward T. Barrick, W.M.
Members of Prince Edwin-Spring Creek
Lodge No. 486, Middletown, presented a check
for $1,000 to Cub Scouts Pack 97, Londonderry
Township, on Feb. 10. The money will be used
to purchase a new Pinewood Derby Track for
the pack.
Community involvement, especially with
the youth, is a primary focus of the lodge. The
money was raised from various fundraisers held
throughout the year, including spaghetti dinners
and other events. Members donate these funds,
as well as operating funds, to Little League
Baseball teams, Pennsylvania Masonic youth
groups and others.

12 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Dinner and a Show

Pennsylvania Freemason

Cron, a student at Delaware Valley Elementary

School, sold popcorn during an event hosted by
DVE-TV, a live, daily television show produced
by the schools sixth graders.
Taking the Plunge

Front row, l-r: Bros. Mark Hannan, Anthony

Perry and Charles MacIntosh. Second row,
l-r: Vince Delaney, Nelson Diaz, Mark Hogan
and L. Joseph Brunelle, P.M. Top row, l-r:
John Descano, P.M.; James Wakeley; and Ariel
Gonzalez. Not shown: Bros. Barry Epstein,
W.M.; Lawrence J. Hubert, Jr., P.M.; Stephen
Long, Secretary; and Doug Fink.
Hospitality is a dish best served from the
heart as demonstrated at the 2nd Annual
Ronald McDonald House Guest Chef Charity
Event sponsored by Lodge No. 2, Philadelphia.
On Jan. 26, led by Bro. Ariel Gonzelez, 14
members broke up into four teams and donned
aprons to participate in their own rendition of
Iron Chef America. Each team prepared a
signature dish and served it to 100 guests of
the Ronald McDonald House. As dinner was
served, Bros. Lawrence J. Hubert, Jr., P.M.; John
Descano, P.M.; and Doug Fink, all LuLu Shriners,
put on their clown faces and entertained the
children with balloon animals, sketch comedy
and magic tricks.
Lodge members listened to stories shared by
the families. The real winners of the competition
were the children. Part of the lodges pledge to
community outreach, this charity drive is one
example of how Freemasonry, fraternity and
fellowship can leave a lasting impression on
the local community.
The Ronald McDonald House provides
room and board for families while their seriously
ill children receive medical treatments at
local hospitals, such as the Shriners Hospitals
for Children and the Childrens Hospital of
Philadelphia.
A Kernel of Kindness

Bros. Craig S. VanDunk, J.M.C., and

Fred W. Cron, P.M., helped a local student
raise money for a trip to Washington, D.C., by
donating supplies for a popcorn machine. Alex

A Friendly Fix
Bro. Frederick Franke, Phoenix Lodge No.
75, Phoenixville, learned that an elderly couple
with a water line leak under their trailer had no
money for a plumber. Using his experience as a
construction manager, Bro. Franke crawled under
their trailer and fixed the leak for them. They
were extremely grateful for my effort, he said.
I am semi-retired from gainful employment, so
I have the time, the tools and the knowledge.
Santas Helper

The 440 Freeze-Masons, l-r: Bros. Shawn Shelhamer,

Bo Rodrigues, Bill Vogel and William Vogel.
A four-man team from Slatington Lodge
No. 440, dubbed 440 Freeze-Masons, took
part in the Lehigh Valley Polar Plunge at Scott
Park in Easton on Jan. 18 to benefit the Special
Olympics.
The dedicated group even participated in
the Super Plunge, beginning at noon on Jan.
17. Every hour for 24 hours, the Freeze-Masons
took a dip in a large inflatable pool outside
Grand Easton Hotel. While some teams had
one member participate in the Super Plunge,
all Freeze-Masons united and plunged as a
team even when light snow began to fall at 4
a.m. At noon on Jan. 18, they jumped in the
Delaware River. Both the pool and the river
were a balmy 40 degrees.
Each team was required to raise a minimum
of $1,500. The Freeze-Masons raised more than
$2,400, and the entire event raised more than
$110,000.
Braving the Ice for a Cause

For the third year, dozens of lodge members

from District 2 took an icy dip for the Special
Olympics. Matinchecks Marauders raised
approximately $4,000, their highest total yet.
After event organizers used chainsaws, picks
and axes to remove 12-inch thick ice to make
room for participants, the brethren took the
plunge on Feb. 22 at Pinchot State Park.
The plungers had a good time, as did
those who showed up to support them. The
event raised approximately $120,000 for the
Special Olympics.

Truly getting into the spirit of the season,

Bro. Cameron Smith, Fritz Lodge No. 308,
Conshohocken, took the good with the bad to
help others this winter. He used his snow blower
to clear the sidewalk for his entire block and
then did each of the driveways that were not
shoveled yet. He also played Santa for patients
at a local hospital where he works and organized
a Salvation Army stocking stuffing in which
about a dozen kids received toys. He played
Secret Santa for a deserving family, dropping
off a large change-filled mason jar with more
than $300 collected from co-workers.
Bro. Smiths other efforts have included
helping stranded motorists, acting as a handyman
for a member of his church, rebuilding homes
in Kentucky, donating blood and running in
a 5K in March to raise money for a local fire
company. If anyone tries to give him money for
his services, he just hands them a card promoting
Pennsylvania Freemasons and Random Acts
of Kindness.
Knowing that by taking a few minutes
or even several hours to assist those who
need it, always leaves me with a smile and the
knowledge that Ive done what I can to help,
Bro. Smith said. Part of the obligation I took
as a Mason was to assist every brother in need,
and I do. But a more important notion is to assist
every person in need. Making good men better
sometimes requires that I spend more time away
from my family, but they generally understand
and support my many causes.

LODGE AND DISTRICT 13

May 2014

Lodges Join in Car Show for Charity

On Oct. 13, 2013, Portland Lodge No.

311 and Pen Argyl Lodge No. 594 held a car
and truck show on the grounds of the Blue
Valley Farm Show to raise funds for the
Masonic Childrens Home.
Under the leadership of Worshipful
Masters at the time Bros. Kale Baker of Portland
Lodge No. 311, and Norman Lippincott of
Pen Argyl Lodge No. 594 and Hamilton Day

Lodge No. 814, Stroudsburg, an enthusiastic

group of younger Masons, many of whom had
only been members of the Craft for a year
or less, organized the event. They included
Portland Lodge brothers Bob Abbott, Justin
Ott, Thadd Taylor, Pat Howarth and Carl
Palmeri.
The car show exceeded everyones
expectations, with over 140 cars and 25

heavy duty trucks registered and on display.

On the day of the show, 40-50 Masons
from both lodges worked all or part of the
day registering cars, directing traffic, assisting
with the CHIP event and helping the Farm
Show staff cook breakfast and lunch for the
large crowds, among other tasks. The Blue
Valley Farm Show not only allowed the use
of their grounds but donated all of the profits
from their food sales to the lodges to add to
the total earned.
The day was eventful. Visitors witnessed
two live demonstrations of police dog training
by the Bangor Borough Police Department,
and Miller-Keystone Blood Bank collected
22 pints of blood in its bloodmobile. Vendors
lined the main entrance, and a DJ entertained
all day. Children enjoyed hayrides and a
bounce tent.
The show netted over $4,100, which was
divided between the lodges for donation to
the Masonic Childrens Home.
Plans are already in the works for a second
car show in the Slate Belt on Oct. 12, 2014.

Lodge Secures
Bible Of Namesake
On Jan. 13, members of Abraham C.
Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, were
pleased to receive the Bible belonging to the
Treichler family, originally owned by Dr. and
Bro. Abraham Treichler for whom the lodge
is named. This family heirloom was donated
by Mrs. Karen Sensemen, of Highspire, the
great-grandaughter of Dr. Treichler. The
Bible is believed to be nearly 150 years old.
Dr. Treichler was a physician in the
Elizabethtown area in the early 1900s. An

Lodge Hosts
Christmas Party
Bedford Lodge No. 320 celebrated its annual Christmas
Family Gathering on Dec. 7, 2013, at the Bedford Masonic
Temple. Approximately 50 brethren, family, and friends attended.
Everyone brought a covered dish to share with the meal, and
while the adults enjoyed a Christmas ornament exchange,
the 15 children were treated to an early visit from Santa, who
brought them gifts.

active Freemason, he was intimately involved in

bringing the Masonic Villages to Elizabethtown
and would later serve as its first attending
physician.
Front: Mrs. Karen Sensemen and Bro. Stephen E.
Poff, WM. Second row: Bros. Robert G. Gregoire,
P.M., Secretary; Seth C. Anthony, S.D. and Lodge
Historian; and Jeffrey A. Schmidt, J.W. Top: Bros.
H. Eugene Geib, P.M., S.W.; and Lawrence R.
Ebersole, P.M., Treasurer.

14 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason

Masonic Reunions

Pennsylvania Masons Reunite in Florida

Almost 500 Pennsylvania Masons, their wives and widows who reside permanently in Florida or who visit there during the winter, attended
the Florida Masonic Reunions in March. Held in Tampa, Sarasota and Palm Beach Gardens, the reunions provided opportunities for the
attendees to receive information on services provided at the Masonic Villages. R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman presented eligible members
in attendance with their years of service emblems and awards. Pictures show the Grand Lodge officers with the 60-year Service Emblem recipients
at each of the Masonic reunions.

Annual Eastern Pennsylvania Masonic Family Picnic at

Saturday, June 14, 2014

Mail your ticket requests to: Linda Matthews,
139 W. Richardson Ave., Langhorne, PA 19047-2827

Rain or Shine

Dorney Park 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Wildwater Kingdom 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
All You Can Eat menu served noon to 5 p.m.

Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Baked Beans, Potato Salad, Soda, Ice Cream,
Condiments and more!

All Tickets $35

Children ages 2 years and under are admitted free of charge.

ADMISSION PRICE PAYS FOR BOTH PARKS
Covered pavilion for meals

Make Checks Payable to Masonic Picnic

_________ No. Tickets at $35..................................... $_________

Total Amount Enclosed $______________________________
Check#____________________________________________
Name______________________________________________
Address____________________________________________
__________________________________________________
Phone _____________________________________________
Lodge___________District_____________________________
Absolute Deadline for Ticket Reservations - May 31, 2014

LODGE AND DISTRICT 15

May 2014

Bro. J. Kevin Jones

Leads to Succeed
Bro. J. Kevin Jones, District Deputy Grand
Master for District 35, enjoys helping people with
various issues. It makes you feel good, he said.
Its something he has done throughout his career,
as well as through his Masonic involvement.
Having just retired at the start of this year,
Bro. Jones served his community in public office
for 26 years, including 16 years (four terms) as
Mayor of Mount Carmel Borough and 10 years on
the Mount Carmel Area School Board, including
a term as president. It was the same school from
which he graduated in 1974, having served as
class president for all four years.
Bro. Jones also taught in the Southern
Columbia Area School District, Catawissa, for
32 years, where he was a cross country and girls
track coach for 30 years.
A natural lifelong leader, Bro. Jones decided
to run for mayor for the first time in 1997 because
of how borough officials handled a problem at
his church, First United Methodist, in 1996.
The churchs tower was not in good condition
at the time, and he received an urgent phone
call while he was on vacation advising him the
borough had condemned the church building.
Upon his return, borough officials did not respond
to requests for a meeting and didnt even return
his phone calls.
I thought I would give it a valiant effort.
If I didnt win, I knew there was no dishonor in
losing, he said. Bro. Jones campaigned on his
record of community involvement, and won. He
won re-election three times - in 2001, 2005 and
2009. He didnt really intend to run for a fourth
term, but only did so at the request of friends
and supporters because of the boroughs 150th
anniversary celebration in 2012. He announced
early on that he would not run for a fifth term.
Bro. Jones is proud of the boroughs improved
efforts in code enforcement and the performance
of the police department, which he believes is
more community-oriented than ever before. He
estimates that he spent 90 percent of his time
responding to citizen inquiries and concerns.
Bro. Jones even responded to his constituents
when he was out of town or on vacation; in fact,
many of the people who called him didnt even
realize he was hundreds of miles away at the time.
He viewed the role of mayor as being the
most visible point person for the borough. I
had a great time, he said. Through his tenure,
Bro. Jones represented the borough at countless
veterans, civic and Scouting events and parades,

and officiated at about 250 wedding ceremonies,

both within the borough limits and out of town,
from small private homes to upscale resorts and
on farmland. His brother, Magisterial District
Judge Hugh A. Jones, P.M. Cedar Lodge No.
378. Mount Carmel, and P.D.D.G.M.-58, also
provides these services.
Bro. Jones was appointed to the school board
in 1982 at age 26, and was elected to four-year
terms in 1983 and 1987. He was board president
at age 29. During this time, he also served as
president of the board at the Northumberland
County Area Vocational-Technical School and
was Mount Carmel Areas representative on the
Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit board
of directors.
Even while attending Mansfield University
(which later named him Outstanding Young
Alumni of the Year), Bro. Jones was actively
involved in local political campaigns. He served
as chairman of the Mount Carmel Borough
Republican Party from 1979 to 1982, and was
chairman in 1980 of George H. W. Bushs primary
campaign and the Reagan-Bush general election
campaign in Northumberland County. Marvin
Bush was a guest in his home while visiting
Mount Carmel on behalf of his father.
During his retirement, Bro. Jones works
part-time at Bro. Ray W. Rothermels funeral
home in Mount Carmel (who is also a member
of Cedar Lodge) and looks forward to spending
more time in Florida and on cruises with his
wife, Donna. He also plans to remain active as
Secretary/Treasurer of the Fraternity Rod and
Gun Club in Woodward, a hunting club formed
primary by local Masons.
Bro. Jones vows to remain involved in his
community, especially with the Mount Carmel
Lions Club, where he has served as president
several times, and on the boards of the Mount
Carmel Cemetery (where he also serves as
manager), with Family Home Medical and with
Sons of Union Veterans. He is president of the
board of trustees at First United Methodist
Church, and in fact donated his mayoral salary
(total of $38,400 over 16 years) to the church.
He also commits a lot of time to Freemasonry.
Coming from a long line of Masons, he became a
member of Cedar Lodge No. 378, Mount Carmel,
in 1979. Bro. Jones served his lodge in several
capacities including as Worshipful Master in 1988
and again in 1996. He was the Vice President
of the lodges Hall Association group when the

lodge sold its former building and renovated and

moved into its current temple.
Bro. Jones became District Deputy Grand
Master in 2012. In addition to meeting some
nice friends across the state, the experience has
opened my eyes to the importance, or higher
purpose, of the Grand Lodge, something you
arent always aware of until you get involved at
this level, he said.
Ive always tried to stand for what
Freemasonry represents, Bro. Jones said. To
me, giving back to my church and community
are part of being a Mason.

16 LODGE AND DISTRICT

Pennsylvania Freemason

FUN FAIR:

Family Involvement at its Finest

Oriental Lodge No. 460, Orangeville,
began as a small lodge situated along beautiful
Fishing Creek in the rural community of
Orangeville Borough, just north of Bloomsburg.
Warranted in 1870, it met in the Odd Fellows
Fraternity building on and off until the early
1970s, when the building was sold. Oriental
Lodge decided to build a new lodge of its own.
From 1975-1977, the lodges 235 members
donated $30,000 for capital toward the project.
On April 22, 1978, they were able to dedicate
their new lodge on Route 487, where they
meet today, but they still had to find a way
to meet the mortgage payments.
That summer, two husband and wife
teams, Bro. C. Harold Bankes, P.M., and his
wife, Marqueen, along with Bro. Dean R.
Kelchner, P.M., and his wife, Peggy, planned
a festival to raise the needed funds. They
lined up volunteers and entertainment, set
up stands and prepared the food. In August
1978, the first annual Flea Market and Fun Fair
was held on the grounds of Oriental Lodge.
The festival continued on through the
1980s and grew in size and income, so that in
1984, just six short years after its inception,
the Lodge Hall held a mortgage burning
ceremony.
Through the years, the festival grew
until, at one point, there were more than
100 flea market vendors on site, operating
from Thursday afternoon through Saturday
evening.
Not only did the lodge benefit financially
from the festival, it grew in membership from
235 members in 1978. Today, more than 340
in 1985. Today, membership stands at 408.

17th Annual
Meeting in the Hills
Saturday, June 28, 2014

Held Outdoors at Christners Grove near Dawson, Pa.

Casual Dress No Shorts, Blue Jeans or Collarless Shirts
Light Jacket Recommended

It took the families of many of the

members to continue to make the festival a
success, and this interaction developed into
a bond, a network of family unity, that made
the lodge so desirable to join.
The lodge was not only able to keep its
dues structure low, but built a savings for rainy
days. In addition, it started a scholarship fund
for four local school districts, and awards
$500 to one senior from each of the four
schools each year.
This year will be the 37th annual Fun
Fair festival.
Brothers Bankes and Kelchner each
served as a Secretary of the lodge for more
than 20 years. As the Committee Chairmen
for the Fun Fair, along with the continued
support of their wives and families, they have
served for more than 35 years. Oriental Lodge
is forever in their debt, for not being in debt.
Top photo: 1989 midway taken from lodge roof
Middle photo: Bros. John P. Reinford, J.W., and
Barry L. Rider, Pursuviant, behind the grill
Bottom photo: Lodge & Tent 2013 - Many
customers under the chicken BBQ tent and in front
of the lodge.

Youre Invited!

37th Annual Fun Fair

August 7-9
Oriental Lodge grounds
2547 State Route 487
Orangeville, PA 17859

King Solomons Lodge No. 346, Connellsville, will host

this annual outdoor event. All Master Masons are welcome.
A 12 oz. New York strip steak dinner will be served at
5 p.m. Following dinner, a special meeting of King Solomons
Lodge No. 346 will be held.
Tickets are $25 and may be ordered from Bro. Richard
E. Bigley at 107 Ashton Drive, Mt. Pleasant, PA 15666.
Please send a self-addressed stamped envelope with payment.
Checks should be made payable to the: CDS Building
Corp. All ticket orders must be received by Monday, June 24.
Phone: 724-547-2367 or email: bigs@zoominternet.net

LODGE AND DISTRICT 17

May 2014

Newtown Lodge Presents: Movies Under the Stars

Newtown Lodge No. 427 is planning for

its fourth season of Movies Under the Stars,
a monthly series of outdoor movies shown at
no charge during the summer.
The movies are a unique way for the lodge
to introduce itself to the local community, like
informal open houses. Members give tours
of the building and answer questions about
Freemasonry and affiliated bodies (Order of
the Eastern Star, Amaranth, Rainbow Girls
and DeMolay) that also meet in the building.
Its also a great opportunity for members to
introduce their own families to the lodge. It
offers everyone who comes a chance to spend
a fun-filled evening with their family without
costing them a fortune.
In preparation for opening night, Bros.
Charles Simon, P.M., and Christopher Stone,
P.M., researched various options. They
discovered that renting movie screens and
projectors was expensive, so they found that
they could project a movie with good quality
by playing it on a PlayStation and projecting
it though a members Sony projector onto a
35-foot wide white tarp mounted on the back
of their building. They borrowed a couple of
large speakers and rented a popcorn machine.
Sixty people attended that evening, enjoying
the free movie and popcorn.
Word of mouth got around, because the
next months movie was attended by 150
people, and members decided Movies Under
the Stars was a success. They fine-tuned it
over the years and made some adjustments.
For example, to offset the movie rental cost,

members donate candy (Bro. Simon doesnt

recommend chocolate bars since they melt in
the summer heat) and beverages (soda, juice
boxes and water) which they offer through the
concession stand on a donation basis. Instead
of renting a popcorn machine for $75/night,
they purchased a machine for around $400,
which paid for itself the first season.
They show five movies a season, which
starts around Memorial Day and runs through
just after Labor Day. Some of the movies
they have shown are: Tangled, How to
Train Your Dragon, Cars and Shrek.
Attendance now averages between 250-300.
Last summer, 500 people attended a showing
of Cinderella, including a few young girls
donning princess gowns.
Although many young children would
not sit through a movie in a regular theater
setting, the shows, being outdoors, allow
the kids to get up and move around without
fear of disturbing others. People bring their
own lawn chairs and/or blankets to sit on in
the 3.5-acre field behind the lodge building.
Several families come out an hour or so before
the movie starts and let their kids run around
and burn off a little energy before the show.
Someone always throws a couple of balls
out on the field and the kids just kick them
around and play before show time.
We have received a lot of positive
feedback and expressions of gratitude from
the attendees, Bro. Simon said. They have
even had several audience members donate
cases of bottled water and soda as a thank
you for showing the movies. We encourage
everyone who comes out to spread the word
and bring friends and family members back
with them to our next show. We have people
come from all over our local area. One group
of about 10 cousins make the 15-mile trip
from Hamilton, N.J., and attend nearly every
show. We even have had a family come from
Wilkes Barre, Pa., to see a few of our shows,

he added.
Bro. Popcorn Master (as he has come
to be called) Simon has a few bits of advice
for any lodges looking to emulate their movie
series:
1. The movies you show must be licensed; you
cannot legally show your personal copy to
a crowd as it would violate copyright laws,
and the fines run into thousands of dollars.
Licensing rights to show each movie costs
in the $250-$350 range.
2.Check with your township government and
police department to see if any permits are
required, as local laws vary.
3. If you have neighbors, contact them and
let them know your plans.
Is it worth it? According to Bro. Simons,
it sure is!
In-depth conversations made possible
through the goodwill shown by the
Movies Under the Stars series have led
to understanding and friendships between
Newtown Lodge No. 427 and its community.

18 FREEMASON

Pennsylvania Freemason

The Initiatic Experience:

Ancient Pathways that Led to Your Initiation
into Freemasonry by Robert Herd
Reviewed by Cathy Giaimo, Assistant Librarian, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania
One of the most important features of
Freemasonry is its ritual. Much has been
written on how to make the ritual experience
more meaningful to the initiate and to those
performing it. Bro. Robert Herd, Colorado
Mason, has written The Initiatic Experience:
Ancient Pathways that Led to Your Initiation
into Freemasonry to put the Masonic
ritual experience into a spiritual context.
Bro. Herd begins by discussing some
of the ancient mystical rites of Egypt,
specifically a coffin text that describes
an actual initiation event. This ritual
appears to have parallel ideas to Masonic ritual
as the candidate goes through a series of initiation rites to achieve
enlightenment. Also covered in the first half of the book is an
account of the Eleusinian Mysteries, Pythagorean philosophy, its
link to Hermeticism and the mystic Islamic sect, Sufism.

By explaining how these various ancient philosophic orders

traveled throughout the ancient Egyptian and Hellenistic world,
Bro. Herd brings the reader to the 15th century where the ancient
ways were re-discovered and modern philosophers incorporated them
into their thinking. The final chapters discuss alchemy, the history
of the Knights Templar, the Kabbalah and Rosicrucians, and their
influences on the formation of Freemasonry.
All of these philosophies lead to what the initiation experience can
be for a newly-made Mason, as well as the initiators. The 21st century
Mason is not so different than his ancient forebears in searching for
light. It is Bro. Herds desire, expressed in his final chapter, that the
men searching for light and understanding in their Masonic rituals
take it upon themselves to truly explore and study these rituals and
pass along their knowledge to their brothers.
To borrow The Initiatic Experience, please contact the library
at 800-462-0430, ext. 1933 or visit The Masonic Library & Museum
online catalog at www.pagrandlodge.org.

The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia

The Masonic Temple/Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania
at One North Broad Street in Philadelphia belongs to all of us. We
should support, use and exhibit it with pride. To help support
this charity, we have published a 140-page coffee-table book
about our Grand Lodge building. All proceeds from the sale
of The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia will go to this
charity. The book is now available for $25. It may be
purchased at the Museum Shop; from its website,
www.masonicmuseumgifts.com; by calling the shop
at 215-988-1973, Tuesdays through Saturdays,
and paying with a credit card; or by using the
order form below.

The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia

Name_________________________________________
Street Address__________________________________
_____________________________________________
City____________________ State____Zip____________
Quantity of Books_______ Total Cost ________

Cost Calculator for each book...

Inside Philadelphia:
$25 + $2 tax + $7 shipping = $34.00 x number of books = _____
Outside Philadelphia:
$25 + $1.50 tax + $7 shipping = $33.50 x number of books = _____
Out of State orders: No tax.
$25 + $7 shipping = $32.00 x number of books = _____

To mail a check using this coupon, please make your check out to Masonic Museum Shop and mail to

Masonic Library & Museum Shop One North Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19107

FREEMASON 19

May 2014

Gift Planning for a Future that Reflects Your

Loves, Values and Priorities is a Lifelong Process
Weve heard of wedding planners and
financial planners, but most individuals have
never worked with a gift planner. If we were
to make a guess about what a gift planner
does, maybe we would say it is someone who
helps us figure out what we might give our
spouse on an upcoming wedding anniversary!
In actuality, gift planning, as provided by
the professionals of the Masonic Charities of
the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, involves
helping people navigate the planning process
for making charitable gifts in the future, when
everything is passed to the next generation.
Masonic Charities employs four regional gift
planners to serve Pennsylvania Masons and
their families, both here in our state and
throughout the country.

There are four simple steps in the gift

planning process:
Reflect upon your life experiences, the
people you love and the values you hold.
Evaluate your current plans and
documents.
Update your plans to reflect your current
loves, values and priorities.
Decide if charitable plans should be
publicly acknowledged or remain
anonymous.
One of the most common objections to
gift planning is, Im too young (or too old).
Some people object, There wont be anything
left when I die or I already made my plans
many years ago. Gift planning is not just
for people of a particular age or of a certain
wealth or income. Bro. Alvin Blitz, Chief Gift
Planning Officer of the Masonic Charities
tells us, Gift planning is a lifelong process
for people of all ages, assets and incomes.

Lodge of Research

Gift planning is especially important:

Upon retirement
Upon the birth, graduation, marriage,
divorce or retirement of your children
and grandchildren
Upon the death of a spouse
Upon changes in tax laws
Upon buying or selling real estate
Upon changes in investment values
In 2013, the Office of Gift Planning
of the Masonic Charities developed a new
workshop and planning workbook that guides
individuals through the process of making
plans for a future that reflects your loves, values
and priorities. The workshop and workbook
have been piloted at some of our Masonic
Villages and at receptions held throughout
the country for Pennsylvania Masons now
living outside of the state.
For a copy of the workbook or to consult
with a gift planner, please see the back cover.

The Pennsylvania Lodge of Research will meet on Saturday, June 14, at 9 a.m., at the Hilton Scranton
& Conference Center, 100 Adams Avenue in Scranton. Several research papers on Masonic topics will be
presented. All Master Masons are invited to attend the meeting at no charge. The meeting will end before
noon, and a buffet luncheon in conjunction with the Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter of Pennsylvania
will be provided at a modest cost. If you would like to stay for lunch, please contact Bro. Theodore W.
Schick, Secretary, at tschick@ptd.net to make a reservation.

20 FREEMASON

Pennsylvania Freemason

AUTUMN
Saturday, September 20, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Join members and friends in celebrating Autumn Day at the Masonic
Village at Elizabethtown. The event will feature entertainment, information,
delicious food served from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., farm market stands, childrens
games, lots of Masonic family organization booths and much more.
This year, we will focus on honoring our veterans. The special highlight
will be the 11 a.m. dedication of the eternal flame in the Veterans Grove,
including a special program honoring our military and thanking those
who have sacrificed for our freedom.
Autumn Day provides the perfect opportunity to visit with family
members, reunite with friends and tour parts of the 1,400-acre campus.
The Masonic Village is unable to provide wheelchairs, so please bring
your own, if needed. Handicap parking is available; however, you must
advise the Masonic Village on the coupon below if handicap parking is
needed, so a special parking pass can be forwarded to you in advance.
The Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank will be holding a
blood drive to benefit Masonic Village residents on Autumn
Day. Donations will be taken at the blood bank stand from
9 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Anyone 17 years of age or older, who is in good health
and weighs at least 100 lbs., is eligible to donate blood. Anyone interested
in donating blood should make an appointment by calling 800-771-0059
between 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday. Please do not call the Masonic
Village for these appointments.

11 a.m. program will honor veterans. Fill out coupon to register to attend.
For Handicap or Bus Parking or Veterans Reservations Only

Address_________________________________________________________________________________
City_____________________________________State_____________Zip___________________________
Need Handicap Parking* Charter Bus
Complete and return to: Autumn Day, Masonic Village
One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022
*Enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope with this coupon. We will send you a special parking permit, if needed, which must be presented upon
arrival. Veterans will be recognized.

AUTUMN DAY 2014

Name____________________________________________________________________________________
Lodge No._______________________________________________________________________________
No. of Adults_______________ No. of Children______________ No. of Veterans_______________
In which military branch did each veteran attending serve?
Air Force Army Coast Guard Marines Merchant Marines Navy

FREEMASON 21

May 2014

DAY 2014
join us in lighting

AN ETERNAL
FLAME
honoring all active

military and veterans

An eternal flame monument will be installed at the Veterans

Grove at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown and dedicated on
Autumn Day, Sept. 20, serving as a tribute and symbol of gratitude
to the brave service men and women who preserve our freedom,
including those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. A plaque on the
front of the eternal flame will state: All gave some ... Some gave all.
If you would like to honor or remember a beloved veteran, pavers
(size 12 x 18) around the eternal flame can be inscribed with a

special message for a $500 donation. Additionally, pavers (size 8

x 12) leading to and around the monument can be inscribed for
a $250 donation. Contributions to the Masonic Charities are taxdeductible to the extent of the law.
Dont miss out on this unique opportunity to become a part of
this meaningful tribute for posterity.
All orders for a paver must be received no later than May 15
to guarantee installation for the dedication on Sept. 20.

Eternal Flame Donation Form

As a way of honoring or memorializing
an individual, a paver surrounding
the eternal flame or on the pathway
to the Veterans Grove can be inscribed
to permanently honor an individuals
service to our country. Please complete
this form and send it along with your
check payable to the Masonic Charities.

Name (donor) _______________________________________________________________

Address____________________________________________________________________
City ______________________________ State __________________________ Zip ________
Phone (
) _____________________ Email ____________________________________
Choose a paver size:
12x18 Paver ($500) will accommodate 5 lines with no more than 20 characters per line
8x12 Paver ($250) will accommodate 4 lines with no more than 14 characters per line

Please print paver inscription below exactly as you would like it to appear; spaces are included in character count.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Please return both completed form and check payable to the Masonic Charities to:

Office of Gift Planning Masonic Village One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022 800-599-6454

22 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason

LifeSkills Conference Builds Leaders

No one can really know what you are called to or what you are capable of but you.
Even if no one sees or understands, you are irreplaceable. Mark Nepo, poet & philosopher
Every summer, the Pennsylvania Masonic
Youth Foundation (PMYF) brings children
ages 12-17 from throughout the world to
the Patton Campus in Elizabethtown.
The youth gain experience according to
their capabilities through a series of social/
emotional, mental and physical challenges.
Each year, more than 100 students and 30
staff instructors explore leadership from the
inside out. Through safe, supportive and
developmentally appropriate teams, they
discover their capabilities, significance and
worthiness. Some students arrive cautious
and tentative but leave empowered, knowing
they are capable of greatness.
PMYF, through the LifeSkills Conference,
is positively impacting school organizations,
buildings and districts. The LifeSkills staff
and participants return to their schools
and help them understand the integration
of social/emotional learning with academic
achievement. They leave with written plans
of action defining how they will be servant
leaders to their schools, communities, houses
of worship, organizations and families.
The essence of the Pennsylvania Masonic
LifeSkills Conference is to create caring
and compassionate young men and women.
Participants become change-agents who
understand that leadership is not about
accolades, but about helping all to achieve.
An essential ingredient in that achievement
is the service they must provide to their

communities and fellow human beings. They

learn and practice the philosophy that, As
we serve others, we improve ourselves. True
prosperity is not measured in acquisitions and
bank statements; rather, it is measured in the
joy of making the world a little better because
of kind-heartedness and genuine concern
for the welfare of others. Every step forward
in service and leadership benefits everyone.
LifeSkills is not just an average summer
camp but a life-changing opportunity for young
men and women to discover and experience
the power that Respect, Responsibility and
Relationship building the 3Rs play in
preparing them for fulfilling and successful
lives. With a variety of fun, adventure-based
problem solving and team-building experiences,
LifeSkills is a leadership conference like none
other available to our youth. Participants choose
their level of challenge, with opportunities to
grow and succeed more and more each day,
leading to the ultimate physical and mental
challenge of a high ropes course at weeks end.
There is also the LifeChangers Conference
for youth between the ages of 17-21 that
provides LifeSkills graduates and others the
opportunity to develop additional leadership
skills, learn to teach and model the 3 Rs
that are the foundation of the LifeSkills
program and to train in group facilitation. Luv
Iyer, a participant in the 2013 LifeChangers
program, noted that, This conference has
been a transformative experience, teaching

me to value other people; that service to

humanity devoid of any selfish motive is the
greatest satisfaction possible.
Through the generous support of
Pennsylvania Masons, the cost for first-time
LifeSkills and LifeChangers attendees is
$300, and the cost for second-time attendees
is $450. Districts, lodges and individuals are
encouraged to sponsor youth participation by
helping a young person enroll or by providing
all or part of the registration fee for a firsttime participant chosen by a local school,
lodge or Masonic youth group.
The Pennsylvania Masonic LifeSkills
Conference will be held July 20-25 in
Elizabethtown. Further information
and registration details are available at
www.pmyf.org or by calling the PMYF office
at 800-266-8424.

Thom Stecher

Thom Stecher is the President

of Stecher and Associates,
which conducts the Masonic
Model Student Assistance
Program training sponsored
by the National Masonic
Foundation for Children. He is
the creator of the Pennsylvania
Masonic LifeSkills Program
and a member of Thomson Lodge No. 340, Paoli.

May 2014

PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION 23

Why They Love Jobies

For the month of February, Pennsylvania Jobs Daughters asked our members why they love Jobies. We received dozens of entries
from girls around the state who were excited to share with everybody why they love being a Jobs Daughter.
Like the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, our Jobies know the importance of Jobs Daughters being a family organization. Sarah from
Bethel #15 wrote that, Ever since Ive joined Jobs Daughters, Ive felt like Ive belonged. And many others agree! A large number of our
members wrote how they loved that Jobies felt like a large, loving family.
We LOVE coming together as a family to do things for others, writes Bethel #12s Mollie. Mollie also told us that the charity for
her Honored Queen term is the Four Diamonds Fund, which allows Jobs Daughters to help children with pediatric cancer. Kids helping
kids is a big part of Jobies, and many of our girls wrote about how they love doing community service and supporting charities that help
other children.
Lastly, a lot of entries came in with girls explaining their fear of public speaking. Alyssa from Bethel #15 felt the same way. She wrote,
My Bethel adults/daughters helped me overcome my problems. And, for this reason, she stated that, Im so glad I became a Jobs Daughter!
One of the best things, though, was that many of the girls could not pick just one thing they loved about Jobies, and thats what we
aim for in Jobs Daughters!

PAs First Rainbow Masonic Family

Assembly
Events
Rainbow assemblies enjoy being included
Celebrates 85 Years in Masonic
events as part of the Masonic
New Castle Assembly No. 1 celebrated
its 85th anniversary on Jan. 19. The assembly
held a special stated meeting with stations filled
by current members of the assembly and a few
majority members of New Castle. During the
meeting, Past Grand Officers, Past Worthy
Advisors, Past Deputies, Past Mother Advisors
and Majority Members were recognized in the
West and each was asked to share a memory
from her term, then honored with the Sign of
Rainbow. Mrs. Helen Snedden, Supreme Deputy,
and Bro. Wayne Frankenstein, D.D.G.M.-26,
encouraged the assembly to continue to grow.
Worshipful Masters of the district and the
District Youth Representative attended, and
the members of the Care-A-Lot Pledge Group
participated.
Following the meeting, there was a buffet
dinner amidst a display of memorabilia from
the assembly throughout the years.

family! Local assemblies were grateful for the

invitation to attend many of the new District
Deputy Grand Master presentations. In addition
to being formally recognized by R.W. Grand
Master Robert J. Bateman, the Rainbow Girls
were introduced to public Masonic ritual and
protocol and enjoyed hearing about the new
Grand Lodge programs.
Front row, l-r: SarahJane Carter, Grand Standard
Bearer-Maryland Flag; Kathryn Webster, Grand
Worthy Advisor; Richard McCleary, D.D.G.M.-53;
Mrs. Helen Snedden, Supreme Deputy; and Amanda
Lewis, Grand Treasurer. Back row (members of
Franklin Assembly #19) l-r: Stephanie Kiesel,
Savannah Carr, Carley Kiesel and Kasi Ferringer.

Assembly Sends
Love to Our Troops

During the month of January, members of

the Beaver Valley Assembly No. 187 traveled
to other Rainbow meetings and events and
had the youth sign valentines. They packaged
the cards in small gift bags and shipped them
overseas to send love to those serving in the
U.S. military. The assembly also sent thank
you packages at Christmas time.

24 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

Pennsylvania Freemason

PA DeMolay Honors Uncle Ralph

Bro. Ralph C. Minehart

On March 8, nearly 50 DeMolays and
adult leaders gathered at the grave of the
founder of DeMolay in Pennsylvania. For
the last nine months, Pennsylvania DeMolay
has been celebrating its 90th anniversary by
honoring the heritage of those who have come
before. Tens of thousands of Pennsylvania men
have received positive experiences through
DeMolay in our Commonwealth throughout
those nine decades, but none of this would
have been possible had it not been for the
dedication and zeal of one brother: Ralph
Carlos Minehart, of the former Crescent

Lodge No. 576, Pittsburgh.

Bro. Minehart was an active member
of the fraternity, rising through the ranks of
both the York and Scottish Rites. While his
name may not be as familiar to Pennsylvania
Masons as Vaux1, Africa2, MacCalla3 or
Bateman, he has had a lasting impact on our
fraternity through his support and founding
of DeMolay in Pennsylvania, while serving
as Grand Commander of Knights Templar
in the Commonwealth, and later, as the first
Executive Officer for DeMolay in the state.
Bro. Mineharts grave is located in the
Union Dale Cemetery, just north of Pittsburgh.
Once forgotten, the grave of Uncle Ralph,
as he was then known to the young men of his
day, was found to be in good condition. Bro.
Matthew S. Maple, State Master Councilor of
Pennsylvania DeMolay, led a sunset memorial
service to honor the founder, which included
the reading of several eulogies. A short sermon
was presented by Rev. and Bro. David J.
Williamson, Senior DeMolay and Grand
Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
The program concluded with a moving tribute
from the young men present, each of whom
placed a flower on Bro. Mineharts grave.
Pennsylvania DeMolay has endowed
the care of the grave for future generations,
ensuring that a floral bouquet will be placed
on the site every Jan. 17, marking the day that
Pennsylvania DeMolay was founded by the
chartering of Templar Chapter, Pittsburgh,
in 1923.
Todays DeMolays are proud of the heritage

Bro. Matthew S. Maple leads the sunset memorial

service in honor of Uncle Ralph
they have inherited and continue to work
to honor those who have built the Order in
former years, one small act at a time.
Bro. Richard Vaux was R.W. Grand Master of
the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania from 1868-1869.
He laid the cornerstone of the Masonic Temple
in Philadelphia using the same gavel Bro. George
Washington used during the Masonic cornerstone
ceremony for the U.S. Capitol building.
2
J. Simpson Africa was R.W. Grand Master from
1891-1892.
3
Clifford P. MacCalla was R.W. Grand Master
from 1889-1890.
1

Planting Seeds to Grow Masonic Youth

With the challenging winter season behind us, thoughts turn to the many projects that the spring season
brings, including the annual planting of those home gardens that produce the vegetables that are enjoyed
during the summer and fall. Its also a great time to start planting the seeds that will be rewarded by the
growth of new DeMolay chapters, Jobs Daughters bethels and Rainbow assemblies and you dont need to
be a botanist or farmer to cultivate these organizations.
The Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation has developed a New Masonic Youth Group Start-Up
Guide that is designed to present a logical, proven, step-by-step process that will result in the formation of
a successful new youth group. This four-page booklet outlines the five crucial components of a successful
Masonic youth group program: adult leaders, administration, programs, membership and state-wide events.
These pamphlets were provided to the District Deputy Grand Masters in February and are available at
www.pmyf.org under the Programs/Publications tab.
This pamphlet provides general information that is applicable to all of the youth groups, but each
organization has its own culture and regulations. For specific information on starting a particular Masonic
youth group in your community, please contact the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation at 800-266-8424
or by emailing pmyf@pagrandlodge.org.

MASONIC VILL AGES 25

May 2014

Masonic Villages Growing to Meet Needs

Masonic values have been woven into
every decision made at the Masonic Villages
for more than 140 years. Because of your role
in Freemasonry, five communities, almost
2,800 residents and over 2,100 employees are
currently impacted by YOU! The organization
provides about $27 million in care each year
for people who cannot afford it.
Masonic Villages constantly strives to
expand its vision, enhance its services and
build on its strong foundation, so every Mason
and his family members may access its highquality resources and services. Keep reading
to learn how Masonic Villages is growing to
meet the needs of those 60+.

Masonic Village
at Dallas

Located in the Endless Mountain Region

of Northeastern Pennsylvania, Masonic
Village at Dallas allows people to lay aside

the responsibilities of home maintenance and

surround themselves with nature.
We chose this area because we like the
countryside, farmlands, lakes and mountains,
Al Exter said. The residents make good
friends, and we are close to our families. We
absolutely love living in our villa and making
new friends.
Select retirement apartments and villas
are currently available in Dallas. A limitedtime villa incentive program offers new
residents the option to customize their villa
with upgraded features at no additional cost,
or to receive a $20,000 marketing allowance
in lieu of these features. In addition, $10,000
off the entrance fee is now being offered for
specific villas.
Neighboring Misericordia University
and Wilkes-Barre offer local recreational
opportunities. Theres always a new special
to try at the on-campus Irem Clubhouse
Restaurant and Pub. This winter, Irem
Clubhouse introduced Clam Nights on the
weekends, live jazz, and indoor golfing and bean
bag toss tournaments to provide summer fun.
Call 866-851-4243 to schedule a visit or
attend an open house:
May 15 Lunch & Learn
June 18 Summer Open House
Aug. 6 Find & Dine

Masonic Village
at Elizabethtown

As the largest campus, Masonic Village at

Elizabethtown offers 1,400 acres of amenities
including a farm market with orchards, wellness
center, recreational hubs, more than three
dozen clubs and an adjacent Amtrak railroad
station for convenient transportation.
The award-winning renovations to the
Masonic Health Care Center have been
transforming residents neighborhoods (units)
from institutional models into household

26 MASONIC VILL AGES

designs and enhancing residents well-being.
New country kitchens have added fresh aromas,
choices and a social dining environment that
has helped to decrease the use of dietary
supplements. Residents suites have been
enhanced with fresh dcor, a new call bell
system, added privacy and European bathrooms.
Common spaces include larger living rooms,
new furniture and dcor and a fireplace.
As part of this renovation, Masonic Village
formed a transitional care unit for people who
need rehabilitation or a level of skilled nursing
and other supportive care prior to returning
home from a hospitalization. Consolidating
these services onto one unit with a team of
highly trained professionals allows Masonic
Village to provide more specialized care.
Masonic Village at Elizabethtown offers
many styles of retirement living cottages,
apartments and suites in price ranges to fit a
wide variety of needs. In February, Masonic
Village finished building 100 new retirement
living cottages between the Veterans Grove and
Formal Gardens. People had so much interest
in these new homes that the construction
took less than three years.
Sheldon Kaplan and his wife, Pat, moved
into one of these spacious cottages, and
within a few months, he joined the Abraham
C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown.
To me, this is a resort. Its a cruise ship in
a corn field! Bro. Kaplan said. They have
all of the amenities here that you could ask
for, and its a wonderful place a relaxing
place to live. We have plenty of room; we
have privacy. We have whatever we need.
In January, the Masonic Outreach
program, which connects people throughout
the United States with services to address
their needs, launched the 2014 Outreach
Series. These free educational seminars help
people to explore new options and services to
enhance their well-being. Call 800-462-7664
or visit www.MasonicOutreach.org to learn more
about the 2014 Outreach Series.
Call 800-676-6452 to schedule a visit or
attend the retirement living open house:
June 4 Annual Open House

Pennsylvania Freemason

Masonic Village
at Lafayette Hill

Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill is small

enough that neighbors form close bonds, but
large enough to offer great amenities like a
bowling alley, wellness center with fitness
programming, computer center, library, gift
shop, clubs and more.
By 2015, more people will live in this
growing community. In April, a construction
project began to add 60 new apartments in onebedroom, one-bedroom/den and two-bedroom
layouts and to improve the buildings faade.
The new apartments will have at least one
and a half bathrooms and premium features
like a walk-in closet, individual washer and
dryer, granite countertops, stainless steel
appliances, and a balcony or patio. These
apartments attach to the current building,
providing convenient indoor access to the
campus amenities.

The construction will include adding

parking and a new campus entrance that
leads to the retirement living addition and
enhances accessibility to the community.
In addition, as new residents move into
the existing retirement living apartments,
Masonic Village is updating them with new
features. All of these improvements will open
Masonic Villages doors to more Masons in
the Philadelphia region.
The best thing [my husband] did was
join the Masons for me because I never
thought hed go first, Marge Johnson said. Her
husband, Kenneth, belonged to Brownstone
Lodge No. 666, Hershey. I love the fact that
when my money runs out, Ill still be able to
stay here and have the same care. I just

feel secure. Its a great thing. There was

just no other choice. This is the best thing I
could have done.
Call 610-828-5760to schedule a visit or
attend an open house:
May 14 Evening Event with Elvis
June 17 Backyard Barbecue
July 9Lunch & Learn
Aug. 7 Lunch & Learn

Masonic Village
at Sewickley

The construction and renovation of the

110,000 square foot Sturgeon Health Care
Center is revolutionizing care in Sewickley.
The centers eight neighborhoods (for 128
residents in individual rooms) were largely
completed in 2013. Like the renovations in
Elizabethtown, this transformation focused
on providing a homelike environment with
a spacious dining area and family room in
each neighborhood. The Redwood Court and
Dogwood Court neighborhoods are designed
to serve residents with dementia, expanding
this service from providing care for 20 people
to accommodating 32 residents.
The renovations last phase, expanding
and transforming the therapy and recreational
space, should be completed in July.

On the other side of campus, a standalone

villa offers a unique retirement living option.
This brick home rests adjacent to the main
campus with woodlands in the backyard. With
a master suite on the first floor, a fireplace in
the living room and a covered deck, the villa
offers all of the convenience of single-story
living. The real treasures lay in the finished
basement and the second story. With four

MASONIC VILL AGES 27

May 2014

bedrooms and two and a half baths, this

villa conjures up visions of friends and family
spending quality time together.
Throughout the campus, retirement living
residents living in villas and apartments benefit
from a carefree lifestyle that provides free
time to explore the communitys amenities,
build close friendships and take advantage of
everything Pittsburgh has to offer just 10 miles
away. In addition, residents gain peace of mind
with the Lifecare option, which guarantees
their care no matter what the future holds.
Judi Hindes describes her decision to move
to Masonic Village at Sewickley as the best
singular decision Ive ever made in my life.
My advice for anyone even thinking
about moving into a setting such as this is,
dont wait! Often people say to me, Im
not quite ready to move into a retirement
village. My response to that is, Really? What
are you not ready for? To be spoiled? Because
thats what we are; we are spoiled! she added
with a chuckle.
Call 412-749-6862 to schedule a visit or
attend a retirement living open house:
May 22 Ice Cream Social
June 25 Lunch & Learn
July 24 Hidden Treasures of Pittsburgh
Aug. 20 Ice Cream Social

Masonic Villages
Admissions Policy

Masonic Village
at Warminster

Masonic Village at Warminster provides

a nursing and personal care setting where
residents, staff, volunteers and family members
become one family and enjoy fun events and
meaningful moments. This community takes
person-centered care to the next level. Staff
get to know residents, so they can perfectly
tailor care and services to each individual.
Maintaining strong relationships with residents
family members is also extremely important.
Bro. Bill Johnston, Tacony Lodge No.
600, Philadelphia, is a familiar face at Masonic
Village at Warminster, where his wife lives.
I really, really, really feel quite comfortable
with my wife being here and knowing that
shes getting loving care. I personally like the
attitude of the administration, nurses and
aides. They all are wonderful. They keep her
busy all day. I would recommend Masonic
Village to anyone because of the loving care
my wife has received.
Call 215-672-2500, ext. 116, to schedule
a visit.

Admissions to the Masonic Villages are

governed by the board of directors, members
of which are elected by the Grand Lodge of
Pennsylvania. The board of directors 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 applicants
race, color, religion, disability, ancestry, national
origin, familial status, age, sex, limited English
proficiency (LEP) or any other protected status.
Regardless of your financial situation, you
can afford to move to a Masonic Village! When
you choose to live at the Masonic Villages, you
are not required to turn over your assets; you
maintain complete control of them. Fraternal
support enables the Masonic Villages to serve all
eligible individuals as part of our Mission of Love.
Please contact the Admissions or Marketing
Office at the Masonic Village of your preference
for information on the living area desired. For
more information, visit www.masonicvillages.org.

Where Caring is a Tradition

The Masonic Village at Warminsters Masonic Eastern Star Home
provides residents with comfort, companionship and a life of dignity and
security. The staff is dedicated to providing each resident a gratifying
lifestyle while accommodating individual needs.
Offering quality nursing care and personal care services, the mission
of the Masonic Village at Warminster includes serving individuals in
Philadelphia County who are day-one Medicaid recipients.

MASONIC VILLAGE

Enjoy Life Your Way

For a tour or for more information, call 215-672-2500,

or email MVWadmissions@masonicvillages.org.
850 Norristown Road Warminster, PA 18974

28 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

Bro. Lynn Row, Bro. Carl Flohr and pilot/friend Donald Mower following their March flight

Bro. Carl Flohr: a Mason on a Mission

One thing you can learn from the
experiences of this self-proclaimed farm
boy is that the skys the limit.
But those who know Bro. Carl Flohr
will tell you he embodies many virtues we all
admire: Humility. Benevolence. Perseverence.
Shrewdness. Honesty. Dedication. A man
any of us would be proud to call Brother.
Educated initially in a four-room
schoolhouse, Bro. Flohr graduated from
high school and began a career in concrete
sales. Within a few years, he started his own
construction and land development company,
Carl R. Flohr, Inc. He later diversified his
business into swimming pool and hot tub
installation, service and maintenance (Flohr
Pools); and real estate (Flohr Realty). During
his career, he has received the Pennsylvania
Builder of the Year Award, an award as the
Outstanding National Representative in the
U.S.A. by the Home Builders Association,
and an Outstanding Service Award by the
National Swimming Pool Association.
He has used his extensive experience
in these industries during his service on the
Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Temples,
Halls and Lodge Rooms (including time as
chairman), as well as on the Masonic Villages
Building and Grounds Subcommittee since
the 1980s (of which he served as chairman
during the 1990s).
Bro. Flohr was made a Mason in 1950
and served as Worshipful Master of George

Washington Lodge No. 143, Chambersburg,

in 1960. He received the Chapel of Four
Chaplains Humanitarian Award on April
27, 1997, and the Pennsylvania Franklin
Medal from R.W. Grand Master Robert L.
Dluge, Jr., during a datestone ceremony for the
Freemasons Cultural Center at the Masonic
Village at Elizabethtown on Autumn Day,
Sept. 23, 2000. That same day, he and his
wife, Arlene, were recognized and honored
by Grand Master Dluge during the unveiling
of a sign for the therapy pool in the Masonic
Health Care Center at the Masonic Village
at Elizabethtown. The pool was named the
Flohr Therapy Pool in recognition of Bro.
Flohrs dedication and service as a member
of the Committee on Masonic Homes from
1991 through 1999. Bro. Flohr offered the
services of his firm to contribute all of the
pumps, piping and design for the pool, and
he, himself, installed much of the piping.
In addition to his blue lodge activities, Bro.
Flohr has actively served in the Scottish Rite,
having been coroneted an Honorary Member
of the Supreme Council, A.A.S.R., 33, in
1981. He also served in various leadership
roles within the York Rite.
Life-long residents of the Chambersburg
area, Bro. Flohr and Arlene both have served
the family of Freemasonry with selfless
devotion. Arlene is a Past Grand Matron,
Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, the Order
of the Eastern Star.

The couple have three sons and a

daughter, nine grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren. Three of their children are now
running the businesses Bro. Flohr started,
and one son shares his love for flying as a
commercial pilot. When I think about all
the economic downturns Ive experienced in
my life, I really had to keep on my toes. But
the businesses are still operating. Looking
back, I believe the diversification in different
aspects of business helped them to survive. Its
the same thing for my kids, Bro. Flohr said.
The Flohrs are also generous benefactors

MASONIC VILL AGES 29

May 2014

of the Masonic Villages and Masonic Charities.

In June 2004, when the Masonic Charities
launched its first $50 million capital and
endowment campaign, Bro. Flohr served on
the capital campaign steering committee.
As Masons, were supposed to help other
people who cant necessarily help themselves,
he said with great humility. Our Masonic
Charities have benefitted many, many of our
members and their widows across the state who
have been able to live in the environments
weve created at the Masonic Villages ... we
hopefully just made life a little easier for them
during their time of need.
He has seen this benevolence in action,
having been intricately involved in the
implementation of dozens of projects over
the years. I appreciate working with other
people in the planning and the renovation
of buildings. I have done work like that
throughout my lifetime, and Ive enjoyed
very much working with Joe (Murphy, CEO),
the board and the Grand Lodge officers
over the years, he said. Weve done a lot
of work during that timeframe, and Ive felt
it was beneficial to me, too. It gives me the
opportunity to have a first-hand examination
of the design, bidding and construction of
many different projects.
Some of the highlights of his volunteerism
over the years have included integrating the
Masonic and Eastern Star homes into one
Mission of Love, as well as the purchase and
continued growth of the Masonic Village at
Sewickley campus. I think that project gave
the opportunity for folks in the Pittsburgh
area to really get a first-hand application of
Masonic charity, he said.
Ive had a tremendous experience with
the villages, and thats why I continue to try
to be active. I still keep up with the projects
going on now and the continuation of all

Bro. Flohr, center, reviews plans for the Masonic Health Care Center construction in 1992 with Masonic
Village and Warfel Construction staff.
we have started over the years. The staff
Ive worked with have been a real pleasure
... they make it worthwhile, too.
Bro. Flohr became interested in flying
when he served as President of the Pennsylvania
Homebuilders Association in 1975. He
purchased a 1974 Piper aircraft and got his
pilots license to get around to various local
associations throughout the state without

interfering with his other businesses. I could

fly somewhere for a meeting in the evening
and jump in the plane and come home and be
to work the next morning, he recalls. Some
years, he flew upwards of 400 hours. He has
recently retired his pilots license, and that
same plane is now for sale. Well drive or fly
commercial, he said, when he and Arlene
wish to travel.

Bro. Flohr, center, participates in the 1996 ground breaking ceremony for retirement living cottages with then-Grand Master Edward O. Weisser, Masonic Village
board members and staff.

30 MASONIC VILL AGES

Pennsylvania Freemason

In his free time, he enjoys traveling and

photography, a passion he embraced back
in high school. He is also very interested in
genealogy, having published William H.
Flohr Family History in 1998.
In addition to giving his expertise and his
benevolence to benefit the Masonic Villages,
Bro. Flohr has given countless hours of his
time. And not just to planning projects or
building with his hands; hes also willing to
do whatever he can to bring the Mission of
Love to life.
On March 24, he did just that for Bro.
Lynn Row, Eureka-West Shore Lodge No. 302,
Mechanicsburg, a resident of Masonic Village
at Elizabethtown. Masonic Village Hospice
staff desired to get Bro. Row, a career pilot,
up in the air one last time. They sent out a

request for a pilot willing to help, and word

got to Bro. Flohr.
Not long ago, Bro. Flohr would have
taken Bro. Row himself, but having retired
his license, he reached out to long-time friend
Donald Mower.
Im glad we could make the arrangements,
Bro. Flohr said. He had been Mr. Mowers
scoutmaster many years ago, and the two
attend the same church. Mr. Mower was more
than willing to help, flying Bro. Flohr with
him from Chambersburg to the Maytown
airport to give Bro. Row a 30-minute ride.
They flew over Masonic Village, and Bro.
Row could pick out his apartment where his
wife, Bea, was waiting for him.
Bro. Row has logged more than 20,000
hours of flight time and has flown all across

the United States, to the Caribbean and to

Cuba. He worked for DuPont, Hershey Foods
and Penn State University, among others. His
passengers have included President Gerald
Ford and his wife, Betty; Joe Paterno; and
several U.S. Senators.
Bro. Row served in the U.S. Army in Italy
during World War II, and when he returned
home, he attended a GI Flight Program. He
retired from flying in 1986. After living in
Florida, he moved to Masonic Village in
June 2013. For me, flying was my whole
life, he said.
From the farm to the construction site,
and from the board room into the air, Bro.
Carl Flohr spreads our Masonic values of
brotherly love, charity and truth.

Phillips Named Executive Director

at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown
Cindy Phillips, Ph.D., has been appointed executive director of the Masonic Village
at Elizabethtown. She succeeds Vicki Gillmore, RN, NHA, Ph.D., who retired May 1 after
16 years of service.
Ms. Phillips is responsible for planning, directing and coordinating all facets of campus
operations.
Prior to joining Masonic Villages leadership team, Ms. Phillips was an executive coach
and management consultant with Leadership 4 Change Consulting, serving all industries
including health care. Additionally, she has more than 17 years of direct leadership experience
in the transportation, telecommunications and financial services industries.
She earned a bachelors degree in finance from Towson University, a masters degree
in business from St. Josephs University and a doctorate at the Fielding Graduate Institute,
where her research interests included leadership development and organizational change.

Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

IN SEASON

Local Asparagus, Southern Strawberries, Pansies, Primrose, Perennials, Crisp

and Juicy Home-Grown Apples, Spinach, Broccoli, Salad Greens, Sugar Peas

Local Tomatoes starting Early May

Local Strawberries starting Mid-May
Online at MVFarmMarket.com

Follow us on Facebook
to see what is in season.

Hours: Mon. - Sat., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 717-361-4520

MVfarmmarket.com 310 Eden View Road, Elizabethtown
Located on the grounds of the Masonic Village We accept FNMP checks

MasonicVillage
FARM MARKET

MASONIC VILL AGES 31

May 2014
Qty. Capital Need
MASONIC VILLAGE AT ELIZABETHTOWN
2
Temporal Thermometers
1
Bariatric Shower Chair
10
Specialty Mattresses
23
Wheelchairs - Specialty
1
Washer/Dryer Set
15
Wheelchairs - Specialty w/customized
5
Bariatric Mattresses
1
Eva Pneumatic Platform Walker
3
Wheelchairs - Tilt & Space
4
Sleeper Chairs
5
Wheelchairs - Broda
2
Bariatric Ceiling Lifts
2
Beds - Pivot
2
Lifts - Overhead
2
NPWT Machines (wound care)
4
Wheelchair Glider Swing
Bariatric Equipment
1
Treadmill for Rehab Dept.
1
Wheelchair Shuttle Cart
1
Hearing Aid Loop
1
Dental Digital Imaging
1
Call Bell System (replacement)
1
InspectRX
CHILDRENS HOME NEEDS
5
Laptops
1
Door (Bedroom)
Shutters
Juniata River Float Trip
Hershey Park Trip
Wildwood NJ Shore Trip
1
Patio
BLEILER COTTAGE NEEDS
40
Curtains
1
Outdoor Carpet
1
Refrigerator
MASONIC VILLAGE AT LAFAYETTE HILL
28
Televisions
Harvest Ball Event
Drama Lessons/Activities for Residents
Baltimore Aquarium w/Lunch and Transportation
Broadway Shows w/Transportation Outing
1
NuStep Machine
MASONIC VILLAGE AT SEWICKLEY
1
Hand Rail Tilt and Roll Scale
1
ARJO Sit to Stand Lift
1
4 Channel E Stimulation (electric)
1
ARJO Maxi Lift
Occupancy Sensors for Apartment Hallway
MASONIC VILLAGE AT DALLAS
2
Handicap Accessible Picnic Tables
1
Gazebo
1
Rooftop Patio
MASONIC VILLAGE AT WARMINSTER
10
Wood Working Kits
1
Electric Lift Recliner
1
Pergola with Awning
1
Gazebo

Cost Per Item

$425
$800
$1,000
$1,000
$1,200
$1,500
$1,600
$1,800
$2,000
$2,000
$2,100
$2,500
$3,700
$4,667
$6,000
$6,000
$10,000
$10,200
$14,000
$18,000
$25,000
$146,300
$186,495

MASONIC
VILLAGES

2014

WISH LIST ITEMS

OFFICE OF GIFT PLANNING

800-599-6454

Thank you to the following individuals who have

provided for the following items since the last issue:
Bleiler Caring Cottage:
Bro. Ken and Elaine Bleiler: Gazebo

$1,550
$4,100
$4,400
$7,400
$20,000

Masonic Childrens Home:

Bro. Benjamin and Kathleen Griscom:

File Cabinet, 2 Shampooers
Bro. Herbert Marder: Trumpet
Bro. Ronald McKnight: Various Items
Mary Ellen and Bro. James Tarman: Various Items
Williamson Corinthian Lodge No. 368: Music Program
Masonic Village at Elizabethtown:
Perseverance Lodge No. 21: Monitors and Camera

Equipment for John S. Sell Memorial Chapel
Wendy and H. Lawrence Culp, Jr.: 2 Rock and Go Chairs,

Vital Sign Machine, Sleeper Chair, 8 Electric Recliners,

Healing Touch and Massages
Old Bellaire Chapter No. 375, O.E.S.:

2 Wheelchair Cushions - Specialty
Bro. Richard Holt: Electric Lift Recliner
Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill:
Concordia Lodge No. 67: 10 T.V.s
Joyce Michelfelder: T.V.
Masonic Village at Sewickley:
Bro. David P. Rihl: Various Items for Pastoral Care
Masonic Village at Warminster:
Concordia Lodge No. 67: 2 Blood Pressure Monitors,
Fireplace
Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation:
Perseverance Lodge No. 21: Furniture in Atrium

$900
$10,532
$14,940

There is an all-inclusive wish list posted on the Masonic

Charities website at www.MasonicCharitiesPA.org, or feel
free to contact the Office of Gift Planning at 800-599-6454.

$1,000
$1,200
$6,000
$8,000

Please note that if funds donated for any item listed are over
subscribed, the funds will be used for additional wish list
items or needs in the same service area.

$500
$848
$1,000
$1,500
$2,250
$5,950
$7,000
$50
$500
$1,300
$400
$2,500
$3,000
$3,150
$3,700
$6,000

Gift Planning that

Reflects Your Loves,
Values and Priorities
is a Lifelong Process.

Benefits

Experience peace of mind and joy in knowing

that your plans continue to reflect your loves,
values and priorities.
Estimate the impact your plan will have upon
lives and organizations.
Assure that your plan reflects current laws and
remains tax-efficient.
Understand how charitable plans will be
acknowledged or, optionally, establish how plans
are to be kept anonymous.

www.MasonicCharitiesPa.org
For professional guidance with planning
charitable gifts from your estate, contact:
Alvin H. Blitz, Esq.

Chief Gift Planning Officer of the R.W. Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania

serving Pennsylvania and all areas of the country
1-800-599-6454 or 717-367-1121, ext. 33312 ABlitz@masonicvillages.org

Jane W. Binley

Director of Gift Planning serving the western Pennsylvania region

412-741-1400, ext. 3011 JBinley@masonicvillages.org

David R. Whitenack, CFP CAP

Director of Gift Planning serving the central Pennsylvania region

717-367-1121, ext. 33437 DWhitenack@masonicvillages.org

Joyce F. Michelfelder, CAP

Director of Gift Planning serving the eastern Pennsylvania region

610-825-6100, ext. 1348 JMichelf@masonicvillages.org

Contact the gift planner in your area or

complete and mail this form to:
Office of Gift Planning, One Masonic Dr., Elizabethtown, PA 17022
Telephone 800-599-6454 or Email giving@masonicvillages.org
I/We have remembered the following Masonic Charity(ies) in my/our
estate plan:_______________________________________________
Please send me a copy of the workbook: Planning for a Future that Reflects
Your Values, Loves and Priorities.
Please send me information on your Franklin Legacy Society that
recognizes individuals who have included a Masonic Charity in his/her
Will or living trust.
Name(s)__________________________________________________________
Address__________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
Phone___________________________________________________________
Email___________________________________________________________

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 States 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.