Nov. 2015 Vol. LXII, No. 4

The Pennsylvania
NOVEMBER 2015 edition vol. LxII no. 4
Remembering
R.W. Past Grand Master
James L. Ernette
1945 - 2015
THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON®
VOL. LXII, NOVEMBER 2015, NO. 4
©2015 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
Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation Staff
Masonic Library & Museum of Pennsylvania Staff
(Publication No. USPS 426-140) November 2015 Issue
of The Pennsylvania Freemason ® Published quarterly by
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Published by the Masonic Villages, owned and operated
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we are not able to publish every submission we receive.
STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP
(Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United
States Code) November 1, 2015, 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.
3 Grand Lodge
• Lodge of Research Meeting Slated • December
Quarterly Communication • Grand Master’s
Message • Annual Grand Communication • Change
for the Troops
11 Lodge and District
• Ways to Support Our Masonic Charities • Lodge &
District Events • Honoring Our First Responders
• Masonic Blood & Organ Donor Club • Random
Acts of Kindness & Community Service Initiatives
• Remembering James L. Ernette, R.W.P.G.M.
• Congratulations to ...
21 Freemason
• Supporters Sought for Advanced Educational
Scholarship Fund • Masonic Book Review • Grand
Master Hosts Temple Tours • Masonic Library &
Museum Achievements
24 PA Masonic Youth Foundation
• Learn What Our PA DeMolay, Job’s Daughters
and Rainbow Girls Have Been Up to! • Masonic
Scholarships Make an Impact on Students
28 Masonic Villages
• Autumn Day • Sewickley Community Festival • 3
Brethren, 3 States, 3 Awards, 1 Community
• Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill Datestone Set
• “Fall” in Love with Masonic Villages! • Wish List
Items
Robert J. Bateman, Editor
Mailing address changes
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Postmaster: Send address changes to:
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Earlier this year, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania was pleased to launch its official Facebook page.
You can “like” us and keep up to date with all of our happenings at
www.facebook.com/pagrandlodge
Make sure you check the page out on Wednesday, Dec. 2, as we will be
offering live coverage from the Grand Lodge Quarterly Communication in
Philadelphia, which includes the election of new Grand Lodge Officers!
As we move into a new Masonic year, we will be looking to post updates
about all of the great happenings in our local lodges, as well as information
regarding Grand Lodge events. Keep your eye on the Facebook page, as well
as here in “The Pennsylvania Freemason,” for more information regarding how
to submit your content!
Lodge of Research Meeting Slated
The Pennsylvania Lodge of Research will meet on Saturday, Dec. 12, at 2 p.m., at the Greater
Pittsburgh Masonic Center, 3579 Masonic Way, Pittsburgh.
Presenters will include Illustrious Bro. S. Brent Morris, renowned Masonic scholar and author, and Bro.
Chris Rodkey, who will provide an excerpt from his upcoming book, “Freemasonry and the Death of God.”
All Master Masons are invited to attend the meeting at no charge.
December Quarterly Communication
To the Members of the Grand Lodge:
You are hereby requested to attend the December Quarterly Communication
of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania to be held at 10 a.m., on Wednesday, Dec.
2, 2015, at the Masonic Temple, 1 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA, at
which the Grand Lodge Officers and Masonic Villages Board of Directors will
be elected.
You are also hereby requested to attend the Annual Grand Open
Communication of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania at the David L. Lawrence
Convention Center, 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA, on Monday, Dec.
28, 2015, at 10 a.m., at which the Grand Lodge Officers will be installed.
By Order of the R.W. Grand Master.
Mark A. Haines
Mark A. Haines
R.W. Grand Secretary
4 GR AND LODGE
Pennsylvania Freemason
GR AND LODGE 5
November 2015
Dear Brethren,
It has been a great honor for me to serve as Grand Master of Freemasonry in Pennsylvania.
I would like to thank all of you for making my term as Grand Master successful and memorable. Through
the cooperation and support from our brethren and their ladies, I have seen my dreams for this fraternity
come to fruition.
We must always remember that we are at our best when we keep “Family and Masonry – United Together
as One.”
Sincerely and fraternally,
Robert J. Bateman
R.W. Grand Master
6 GR AND LODGE
Pennsylvania Freemason
Spouses, Family & Friends are invited to attend all events along with you!
at the
Annual Grand
Communication
Monday, Dec. 28, 2015
David L. Lawrence
Convention Center
Pittsburgh, PA
GR AND LODGE 7
November 2015
Chris Jamison
Finalist on NBC’s “The Voice”
Chris Jamison
is an American
singer-songwriter
best known for
his appearance in
season 7 of NBC’s reality TV singing
competition “The Voice” on Adam
Levine’s team. Scan the QR code to
experience Chris Jamison!
10:00 a.m.Anticipated OPEN Installation of
Raymond T. Dietz
as Right Worshipful Grand Master
of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania
A FREE LUNCHEON will follow the
OPEN installation
(Reservations Requested)
5:30 p.m.
Cash Bar Reception
6:30 p.m.Banquet Dinner with Entertainment
by Singer-Songwriter Chris Jamison
2014 Finalist on “The Voice”
Tickets $90 per person
(Advance Tickets Required)
For tickets
and reservations,
please contact:
Limited Seats Still Available
Your District Deputy Grand Master
or Bro. David Morgans by phone at: 412-728-6533 or email at:
[email protected]. Reservations are due by Nov. 15, 2015.
8 GR AND LODGE
Pennsylvania Freemason
CHANGE FOR THE TROOPS
Showering Military Parents with Support
The room was filled with tears of joy and smiles of graciousness.
While these couples sacrifice so much for their country, they don’t
expect anything in return.
They accept the gifts, however, because they are for their
soon-to-be sons and daughters. While they would never ask for
handouts, they are in need … and deserving! Through Change for
the Troops, 11 military families (10 with the National Guard and
one with the Army) were recently blessed with everything they need
to take care of their expected bundles of joy. In partnership with
the March of Dimes, Pennsylvania Masons provided toys, strollers,
car seats, baby monitors, diapers toys, clothing, bath products and
gift cards, among other necessities, as well as raffle prizes like handknitted baby blankets, at the baby shower held Sept. 21 the 171st
Air Refueling Wing, at the Pittsburgh Air National Guard Station.
In an interview with KDKA news, R.W. Deputy Grand Master
Raymond T. Dietz said, “Not all of our military personnel and their
families are fortunate to be able to afford the things that they need
to start a family, to raise a family, such as baby monitors, formula,
diapers and so forth. We are pleased, as Pennsylvania Masons, to
be able to be there and support our military and their spouses while
they are serving and giving us freedom in our country.”
In addition to the gifts, the expecting parents receive education.
Matt Dalrymple, 171st AW, Director of Psychological Health,
presented on stress management during pregnancy. The March of
Dimes discussed what moms can expect during their pregnancy
and what resources are available to them through the organization.
Dr. Jerry Carrino, of the March of Dimes, and Tim Murphy, Vice
President and General Manager from Philips New Business SolutionsHealthcare, also presented during the shower. Philips had already
sponsored some of the gifts being given at the baby showers, but after
speaking with Col. and Bro. Harris Brooks, the company agreed to
November 2015
co-sponsor the September event and an additional event at Joint
Base Maguire-Dix-Lakehurst. By sharing the expense with Philips,
Change for the Troops will help 30 additional military families with
no additional expense to the program.
Lenny McAllister, from station KDKA in Pittsburgh, emceed the
event. A talk show host and a political analyst, he was so impressed
with Pennsylvania Masons and what we do for military families, he
couldn’t stop blessing and thanking those present.
Col. Greg Perez, Base Commander and Commander of the 171st
Air Refueling Wing at the Air National Guard Station, Coraopolis,
who was very involved in working with the March of Dimes and
Pennsylvania Masons to set up and host the event, also could not
express his thanks enough on behalf of himself and the airmen.
One mom-to-be was extremely emotional, as her husband is
leaving the Pennsylvania National Guard to enter active duty with
the U.S. Army paratroopers as a sniper. They are moving to Ft.
Bragg, N.C. As she was interviewed by KDKA TV, she continually
thanked Pennsylvania Masons and cried tears of appreciation
(shown above, right).
The March of Dimes has been able to hold baby showers all
over the country over the last year because of the original program
started by Pennsylvania Masons six years ago. Companies who have
heard about what Pennsylvania Masons are doing for local military
GR AND LODGE 9
families have approached the March of Dimes to fund showers in
their immediate markets across the nation.
Between our support for military members and veterans with
disabilities at Horsham Air National Guard Station and the military
baby showers, Pennsylvania Masons have built a strong foundation
of support from our Pennsylvania military. Many new brethren have
joined Freemasonry through the Change for the Troops program and
the visibility it brings to the goodwill efforts of Pennsylvania Masons.
10 LODGE AND DISTRICT
Pennsylvania Freemason
Day of Giving Will Stretch Your Contributions
to the Masonic Children’s Home
The Masonic Children’s Home is participating in the Extraordinary Give on Friday, Nov. 20. On that day, every dollar donated will be
stretched by $250,000 from the Lancaster County Community Foundation, presenting sponsors Rodgers & Associates and other generous
supporters. Additional prizes of $50,000 will be awarded to charities that reach certain milestones.
Be sure to “Like” the Masonic Children’s Home on Facebook or visit www.masonicchildrenshome.org for direct links to give on this
special day and for updates on the campaign and the youth at our children’s home.
Holiday Shopping?
Give Two Gifts for the Price of One!
If you plan to do some online shopping this holiday season, why not support our Masonic
Charities with your purchases, at no additional cost to you? A gift for a loved one, a gift for a
Masonic charity!
Here’s how it works.
When you shop at AmazonSmile, Amazon will donate 0.5% of the purchase price to the Masonic
charity of your choice. Simply bookmark one of the following links so all of your eligible purchases will
benefit your favorite Masonic charity every time you shop:
Masonic Charities Fund: http://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-2720910
Masonic Villages: http://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-0846955
Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation: http://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-2188997
Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania: http://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-2608317
Lodge in the Woods 2015 Draws Hundreds
On Sept. 16, the 1st Masonic District held its biennial “Lodge in the Woods” event at Camp Mack Scout Reservation. R.W. Grand
Master Robert J. Bateman was proud to present three Daniel Carter Beard Awards, eight Master Builder Awards and one Grand Master’s
Award. Approximately 300 brethren in attendance enjoyed a steak dinner and a picture perfect evening meeting under the stars. The
Worshipful Masters of the 10 District 1 lodges filled the officers’ chairs to conduct the meeting.
November 2015
LODGE AND DISTRICT 11
Honoring Our First
Responders
Lodges across the state dedicated
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. The following
articles feature ways in which brethren
recognized these brave heroes.
Making Wishes Come True
On First Responders Night at Mitchell Lodge No. 206, Jenkintown,
Whitemash Volunteer Ambulance personnel gave a presentation on
how they do what they do for people in need, including providing
transport for residents at Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill. The
ambulance crew indicated they wished they could afford an EZ-Glide
Stair Chair, which costs about $3,000, to help them transport people
up and down steps. The brethren of Mitchell Lodge made that wish
come true when they delivered the chair to the station house on July
12, as shown below.
Thanking First Responders
North Star Lodge No. 241, Warren; and Stillwater Lodge No.
547 and Joseph Warren Lodge No. 726, both of Youngsville, held a
picnic on June 6 at Wilder Field to honor first responders.
Approximately 35 first responders from four fire departments
and two police departments attended, along with their families (see
photo top right). Each department brought equipment and showed
the gathering more about what they do. The formal First Responder
Program followed the lunch, and the first responders received the
Grand Master’s pin.
Appreciation Dinner & Party
follow Charity Ride
On Aug. 15, Greater Johnstown Lodge No. 538 and Cambria
Lodge No. 278, Johnstown, hosted the second annual First Responders
Appreciation Dinner and party at the Johnstown Masonic Temple.
Approximately 150 area first responders attended and received
the First Responder’s Pin. Many of the recipients had participated
in the annual Conemaugh Med Star Charity Motorcycle Ride held
earlier in the day to benefit the family of a local paramedic who was
killed while assisting at the scene of an accident. The PA Widows
Sons Masonic Riders supported both the dinner and helped to
organize the benefit motorcycle event.
“We wanted to show the community how first responders should
be recognized and that their duties don’t go unrecognized,” Bro.
Christopher Kantz, Greater Johnstown Lodge No. 538, who helped
organize the event, told WJAC-TV News. Proceeds from the ride went
toward the Janice Keen Livingston Memorial Park, which is planned
for the west end of Johnstown to honor those who have dedicated
their lives to serving the fire and police departments and EMS.
12 LODGE AND DISTRICT
Pennsylvania Freemason
Warren Independence
Day Parade
North Star Lodge No. 241, Warren, participated in the Warren
Independence Day parade in a fine display of Freemasonry for the
spectators. “I’m proud to announce the 4th of July was a great
success,” said Bro. Ryan Knopf, W.M. “We presented approximately
75 veterans and first responders with the Grand Master’s gift pins
along the parade route. We also fielded questions from spectators
about our fraternity.”
Bro. C. Donald Nelson, P.D.D.G.M.-56, driving the lodge float with several
brethren on board.
Masonic Blood And Organ Donor Club
Bro. Bill Wahlstein, Barger Lodge No. 325 and Hamilton Day Lodge
No. 814, both of Stroudsburg, has held multiple successful blood drives
in his Blood Count costume.
You’re Saving Lives!
Thanks to the support from District Deputy
Grand Masters, Worshipful Masters and Blood
Donor chairmen, the Blood and Organ Donor
Club collected over 4,000 units of blood in 2014.
Since each unit can save up to three lives,
we potentially saved 12,000 lives!
Lodge Involvement is Key
Ossea Lodge No. 317, Wellsboro,
has an energetic Blood Donor Program.
The lodge’s next blood drive will yield its
1,200th unit of blood, and there is a nice
recognition planned for the 1,200th donor.
A Fraternal Blood Feud has erupted between lodge in Altoona
and Hollidaysburg. Under the guidance of Bro. Larry Bilotto, a member
built a trophy that is given to the lodge with the highest contributed
number of drawn blood units. The lodge keeps the trophy in its lodge
hall until the next drive. See photo bottom left.
We Need Your Support
Once a year, the Blood Club sends out membership cards along
with its newsletter and a request for voluntary donations from Blood
Club members. The club operates from generous donations from
lodges, districts and individuals; this is its only source of income.
Pick a Prime Location
Two years ago, the Blood Club changed some of its blood collection
site rules. Since some lodges couldn’t host a drive in their buildings,
they can now be held in firehouses, American Legion halls, houses
of worship and other locations, upon request. Hosting these events
in our communities allows the public to see our goodwill efforts.
Blood Drives Benefit Charities
Blood Drive charity donations have continued to be very
successful. The club pays $10 per unit of collected blood at drives
to 501(c)(3) Masonic Charities. With today’s economy, many lodges
find it difficult to make donations to the Masonic Charities, but
hosting blood drives has enabled them to make generous donations
through their efforts. Everybody wins!
Be An Organ Donor
The Blood Club also informs the Craft about how to give the
gift of life. By signing an Organ Donation form today and having
your Driver’s License marked, “Organ Donor,” you can selflessly pass
life into patients with failed organs.
Masonic Blood and Organ Donor Club members are available
to attend lodge meetings, upon invitation, to share additional
information with brethren and to advise lodges on how to achieve
successful outcomes.
LODGE AND DISTRICT 13
November 2015
Random Acts of Kindness
& Community Service Initiatives
Masonic lodges continue to make an impact in their communities through large scale events and small acts of kindness. Members are
proudly representing the Masonic fraternity and what is stands for, while enhancing their own well-being.
Making the Grade
The 30th Masonic District sponsored the third annual Youth
Academic Challenge, an award program for youth ages 12 to 14 who
are the children, grandchildren or great-grandchildren of a member
of one of the district’s nine lodges. Each child had to earn all As or
Bs on their last and final report cards for the past school year to earn
a day of fun, food and excitement. This year, 12 students qualified
for the achievement award. On Sunday, Aug. 9, the awardees were
taken by a luxury bus and treated to a shopping spree at South Hills
Village mall and dinner at Houlihan’s restaurant.
unit director at Mt. Olivet Boys & Girls Club – Ricketts Center, for
use during their summer camp and field trip activities.
Bro. Watson alerted the lodge to the club’s need. The Ricketts
Center is only a few blocks away from Stichter Lodge, and some
members took part in its recreational activities when they were
younger. The radios were purchased through Stichter Lodge’s Charity
Fund/Committee.
l-r: Dennis Shaffer, W.M., Stichter Lodge No. 254; Janice Burgess, Mt. Olivet
Boys and Girls Club; and Bro. Bobby Watson, Los Angeles Harbor Masonic
Lodge No. 332
The Sounds of Summer
Bro. Dennis Shaffer, W.M., Stichter Lodge No. 254, Pottstown,
and Bro. Bobby Watson, Los Angeles Harbor Masonic Lodge No.
332, San Pedro, Calif., presented six two-way radios to Janice Burgess,
CHIPing In
The 26th Masonic District held a Child Identification Program
on Aug. 8 in Waymart with 109 children participating. Sponsored by
Lodge of the Craft/Westminster No. 433, New Castle, and Mahoning
New Castle Lodge No. 243, members from William H. Miller Lodge
14 LODGE AND DISTRICT
No. 769, Butler; Butler Lodge No. 272; Harmony Lodge No. 429,
Zelienople; Victory Lodge No. 694, Butler; Kedron Lodge No. 389,
West Middlesex; Coral Gables Lodge No. 260, Florida; and New Castle
Rainbow Girls Assembly No. 1 volunteered their time at the event.
Police officers and Bros. Shawn Hill and Bob Sipe, both from
Lodge of the Craft/Westminster Lodge No. 433, fingerprinted the
children. Organizers included Bros. Allen B. Housholder, P.M.,
and Michael L. Patterson, P.M., both members of Harmony Lodge
No. 429 and co-chairmen of the 26th District’s Masonic Education
Program; Scott L. Maxwell, P.M., Mahoning New Castle Lodge No.
243 and Principal of the 26th District’s School of Instruction; James
J. Knights, Harmony Lodge No. 429 and Chairman of the 26th
District’s Publicity and Photography; Carl J. Wagner W.M., Butler
Lodge No. 272 and Chairman of the 26th District’s Youth Program;
and Ed A. Newcaster, P.M., William H. Miller Lodge No. 769, Butler,
and Chairman of the 26th District’s CHIP Program.
Bro. Shawn Hill, Lodge of the Craft/Westminster Lodge No. 433, New Castle,
CHIPs a young girl.
Community Cleanup
As part of the city of Corry’s sixth annual cleanup day, Corry
Lodge No. 365 coordinated a group of 75 people who canvassed the
city on April 25.
Temperatures in the upper 30s greeted volunteers as the cleanup
began at 8 a.m. Brethren set up a registration table and handed out
gloves, safety vests, garbage bags and a master map of the city pointing
out which areas needed attention.
“We like doing anything for the public,” Bro. Bill Hill, W.M.,
said. “Helping Corry is always a worthy thing to do.”
About a dozen members of Corry Cub Scout Pack 79 joined the
effort. Bro. Tim Joncas, Chaplain; his son, Logan; and their friend,
Sammy, spent about five hours picking up trash and filled 15 garbage
Pennsylvania Freemason
bags along with a five-gallon pail.
Helpful Fill Up
Prior to a stated meeting of Chester Lodge No. 236, Bro. Tracy
Price was dropping off refreshments before the members arrived when
he came across an SUV outside of the building that had run out of
gas. A husband, wife, several young children and a mother-in-law
were in the car with their weekly grocery order. The mother of the
small children asked for a ride to the nearest gas station, and Bro.
Price offered to take her while the family waited.
When they arrived back at the SUV, her family was not there.
Bro. Ed McQuiston had asked them all to come inside out of the
95-degree heat. He provided them with cold bottled water and kept
them calm and safe while the mother purchased fuel for their car.
“They thanked us for our assistance and thanked us for the
brief education about Freemasonry, as they had never heard of our
fraternity,” Bro. Price said.
Books for Bikes
J. Simpson Africa Lodge No. 628, Stroudsburg, organized its
second annual “Books for Bikes” to encourage students from two
local elementary schools to develop a love for reading. The incentive
was a new bike and helmet (one girl’s and one boy’s for each school).
In May, second graders from Clearview and B.F. Morey elementary
schools were asked to read a book and complete a one-page report
about the characters and setting. They were also challenged to
include two new words they learned and provide their definitions.
For every three book reports a student completed, his or her name
was entered once into a raffle for a chance to win a bike. There was
no limit to the number of entries per student.
Overall, more than 3,120 pages were read among the 25 participants
at the two schools. At a year-end awards ceremony including parents,
teachers and peers from all grades, the participants were recognized
with a certificate embossed with the official lodge seal and the two
winners from each school were announced.
“To see the look on the participants’ faces when their names
were read off, it’s priceless and worth every penny,” Bro. Brian Massie,
W.M., said.
November 2015
l-r: Bros. Andrew Beauchamp, Junior Master of Ceremonies; Terry Hill,
Chaplain; Chris Sierra, Senior Master of Ceremonies; and Brian W. Massie,
W.M., P.M., shown with participants from B.F. Morey Elementary School and
Principal Cynthia Muffley.
LODGE AND DISTRICT 15
Ride for Destiny
On July 18, Masonic Motorcycle Club International – Chapter
51 participated in the third annual Gracie’s Benefit Ride in southern
Huntingdon County along with 50 motorcycles and 80 riders and
passengers. After the ride, Chapter 51 presented a monetary gift of
love and support in the amount of $300.
This year’s ride was organized to assist 16-year-old Destiny Devlin,
who is fighting a very rare form of cancer that developed following
a bone marrow transplant. Destiny, whose father is Bro. Duane C.
Hardy, Sr., Cromwell Lodge No. 572, Orbisonia, was diagnosed with
Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2011 and has endured several remissions and
reoccurrences. Destiny is now traveling to Hershey Medical Center
three times each week for treatment.
Spell Check
Two teams of Masons participated in the Hooked on Books
Corporate Spelling Bee on April 7 to raise money to purchase books
for children across Erie County. The 24th District Team, made up of
Bros. Mike Stafford and Dick Hiles, Tyrian-Commonwealth Lodge
No. 362, Erie, and Steve Yovich, Eurkea Lodge No. 366, Union City,
took third place. Also participating was a team from the York Rite.
Car Show for a Cause
Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551, Mount Joy, and Columbia Lodge
No. 286, Wrightsville, held their annual Open House and Car Show
on Aug. 16. The event raised $2,300 for the Mount Joy and Marietta
Food Banks, and visitors were asked to donate non-perishable food
items for the Columbia Food Bank.
The Donegal Masonic Center hosted approximately 85 cars and
motorcycles, with more than 75 visitors. Money was raised through
an auction which included door prizes. Trophies were presented to
chosen cars and motorcycles.
Aerial view of the open house and car show at the Donegal Masonic Center,
Mount Joy
Front row, l-r: Lori Varner; Bros. Richard D. Doyle, P.M., and Richard P.
Newman, Junior Master of Ceremonies, Cromwell Lodge No. 572; and R.
Michael Rotz, P.M., Mount Zion Lodge No. 774
Back row, l-r: Lori Shoop; Bros. Bryan D. Shoop and Derick D. Doyle,
Cromwell Lodge No. 572; Destiny Devlin; Bros. Jeffrey W. Henry and William
C. Morgan, Mount Union Lodge No. 688; and Bro. Matthew R. Varner, Sr.,
W.M., Cromwell Lodge No. 572
Check for Charity
The Grand Chapter of Pennsylvania, Widow’s Sons Masonic
Rider Association raised and presented a $6,000 check to R.W.
Grand Master Robert J. Bateman on Autumn Day to benefit the
Masonic Children’s Home.
16 LODGE AND DISTRICT
Pennsylvania Freemason
LODGE AND DISTRICT 17
November 2015
James “Jay” Leslie Ernette
112th Grand Master of Pennsylvania, 1998 - 1999
“It is time that we take Masonic charity out of the lodge room and into the community
and let our vitality be recognized. When good men are doing good things in our communities,
other good men will want to be part of the action – to join those who work hand-in-hand
helping their communities and those in need.” – Bro. Jay Ernette
Bro. James “Jay” Ernette, 33°, went to be with the Great Architect
of the Universe on Aug. 31, 2015.
Born July 18, 1945, in Greensburg, Pa., he was a son of the late
William C. Ernette Sr., and Dorothy R. (Longsdorf) Ernette. Educated
in the Hempfield Area School District and Point Park College,
Pittsburgh (1967), he was also a graduate of the Pennsylvania State
Police Academy, Hershey (1967).
Bro. Jay was a State Police Trooper from 1967-1984. He cofounded Unity Printing Co., Latrobe, in 1980, and served as its
President until his retirement in 2013, leaving it in the capable hands
of his daughter, Lisa.
Bro. Jay is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Brenda E.
(Smith) Ernette; a daughter, Lisa Renée, wife of Bro. G. Joseph
Frederick; a granddaughter, Ashley, and a grandson, Cole Joseph; a
brother, William C. Ernette Jr., of Las Vegas, Nev.; a sister, Carole
A., and her husband, Bro. Richard Stemmler, of Latrobe; and his
faithful dog, Max.
An active community leader, Bro. Jay was a member of the
Westmoreland County Law Enforcement Officers Association and
Rotary. He served on the boards of the Central Westmoreland,
Ligionier, Latrobe and East Suburban Chambers of Commerce and
as a board member of the Latrobe Area Community Development
Corp. He was a member of Latrobe United Methodist Church.
Bro. Jay was made a Mason in Westmoreland Lodge No. 518,
Greensburg, on June 21, 1974, went through the chairs and served as
Worshipful Master in 1980. He was a member of the York and Scottish
Rite bodies, as well as the Shrine, Tall Cedars and Royal Order of
Jesters and received the Legion of Honor of the Order of DeMolay.
In Grand Lodge, Bro. Jay served as Senior Grand Deacon from
1982-1986 and District Deputy Grand Master for District 30 from
1987-1991. Elected Junior Grand Warden for 1992-1993, then serving
as Senior Grand Warden and Deputy Grand Master, he became R.W.
Grand Master in 1998. He was also a member of the Board of the
Masonic Homes (Village) at Elizabethtown (Chairman 1998-1999),
a Trustee of the Consolidated Fund, a member of the Committees
on Landmarks, Finance, Youth Activities (Pennsylvania Masonic
Youth Foundation), Correspondence, Library and Museum, Fraternal
Recognition and as an Administrator of the pension plan (Chairman
1994) and of the Boards of the Pennsylvania Masonic Foundation for
the Prevention of Drug and Alcohol Abuse Among Children (President
1994), the Pennsylvania Masonic Foundation for Leadership and
Management and the National Masonic Foundation for Children.
Bro. Jay’s major programs included the Masonic Matching
Charity Grants, the “Overture” leadership program, continuation
of a multimedia center and classrooms at the Masonic Conference
Center and the opening of the Brossman Pool at the Masonic Village
at Elizabethtown.
An avid Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers fan, Bro. Jay participated
in the tradition of throwing out the first ball at Phillies-Pirates
baseball games.
His cheerful presence, especially at Masonic events, will be
greatly missed.
18 LODGE AND DISTRICT
Pennsylvania Freemason
One Day Class Hosted in Historic Lodge
The 1st Masonic District Degree Team raised 10 candidates to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason with the help of 30 guides on
June 24 at the old lodge room of Lodge No. 43, 5 West King Street, Lancaster. The meeting was attended by approximately 125 brothers.
The “old lodge room” dates back to 1785 when Lodge No. 43 was first chartered by the Provincial Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and
can be seen at www.firstmasonic.org.
Seated, l-r: Bros. Nevin L. Post, Mount Lebanon Lodge No. 226, Lebanon; Carl I. Ross, Lamberton Lodge No. 476, Lancaster; John L. Shreiner, Ephrata Lodge
No. 665; Robert T. Narkowski, Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551, Mount Joy; and Kenneth A. Brennen, Ephrata Lodge No. 665. Standing, l-r: Bros. Ronald
Carson, W.M., Lamberton Lodge No. 476 and Principal of the School of Instruction; Josh Parmer, W.M., Lodge No. 43 and the conferring officer; Brandon Fowler,
Ephrata Lodge No. 665; Wayne Millard, Lamberton Lodge No. 476; John R. Fritz, Ephrata Lodge No. 665; David D. Gerhart, Mount Lebanon Lodge No. 226;
Joseph B. Walton, Lamberton Lodge No. 476; and Larry A. Derr, D.D.G.M.-1.
Celebrating 50 Years and Six Generations
Bro. David M. Frees, Jr., celebrated his 50th anniversary of Masonic membership on Feb. 6 at his home in Phoenixville, when he
received his Masonic Service Award from Bro. Timothy L. Pletcher, D.D.G.M.-40.
Bro. Dave is a 4th generation Mason of Phoenix Lodge No. 75, Phoenixville, and was preceded by his father, Dave Sr., in 1948; his
grandfather, George K. Frees; and great-grandfather, David MacFeat. Both of Bro. Dave Jr.’s sons, Dave III and Robb (5th generation)
were in attendance, as well as two of his four grandsons (6th generation), all of whom are also members.
l-r: Bros. Tyler Jordan Frees; Robb S. Frees; Anthony C. DiGirolomo, P.M., Secretary; Alexander Jacob Frees; David M. Frees, Jr. (front, center); Christopher
James Wollter, P.M.; David M. Frees III; Timothy L. Pletcher, D.D.G.M.-40; Robert B. Frees, P.M., Treasurer; and David J. Welty, W.M.
LODGE AND DISTRICT 19
November 2015
On May 2, Districts 26, 27 and 53 held a One Day Class at the Scottish Rite Cathedral, New Castle, where 25 new members were raised.
State Troopers Raise Candidate
On June 17, the Pennsylvania State Police Degree Team conferred
a Third Degree on “one of their own,” Tpr. Ryan Lawrence, at Charles
M. Howell Lodge No. 496, Millersville. The lodge room was almost
filled to capacity with visiting brothers and guests who were impressed
with the outstanding degree work.
The Pennsylvania State Police Degree Team was formed during
the 1940s by Bro. Corporal Thomas E. Eshelman in northeast
Pennsylvania to raise Pennsylvania State Policemen to the sublime
degree of a Master Mason. The team consisted of active and retired
members of the Pennsylvania State Police who conferred the Master
Mason’s degree in customary Masonic clothing.
In 1994, Bros. Col. Glenn A. Walp, Commissioner of the
Pennsylvania State Police, and George H. Hohenshildt, R.W.P.G.M.,
granted permission for the degree team to confer the degree while
wearing the Pennsylvania State Police uniform. Degree team members
also wear a special apron which was designed in 1996 by Retired
Sgt. Bro. Homer Jones, P.D.D.G.M., and approved by Bro. Edward
O. Weisser, R.W.P.G.M.
Today, the degree team is comprised of two distinct units, the
traditional Northeast Unit, located in northeast Pennsylvania, and the
Harrisburg Unit, which formed in 1995. Since 1974, the units have
collectively raised over 100 law enforcement officers, including active
and retired enlisted and commissioned officers of the Pennsylvania
State Police and New Jersey State Police, as well as a number of local
Pennsylvania police officers.
On Aug. 22, 1998, the degree team conferred all three degrees
upon Col. Paul J. Evanko, Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State
Police; Lt. Col. Joseph H. Westcott, Deputy Commissioner of the
Pennsylvania State Police; and Tpr. Robert Soto when Bro. James
L. Ernette, R.W.P.G.M., made them Masons at Sight.
The mission of the degree team has always been to recognize
with dignity their comrades in arms and to promote the ideals and
goodwill that law enforcement and Freemasonry share.
First row, l-r: Bros. Larry A. Derr, D.D.G.M.-1; Tpr. Ryan Lawrence and
Ret. Tpr. Walley Ditzler, P.M., conferring W.M., Charles M. Howell Lodge
No. 496. Second row, l-r: Bros. Ret. Cpt. Phil Rickert, P.M., Union Lodge
No. 324, Mifflintown; Ret. Tpr. Vaughn Schwalm, Susquehanna Lodge No.
364, Millersburg; Ret. Cpt. Bruce Gaston, P.M., Ephrata Lodge No. 665; Tpr.
Keith Noll and Tpr. Chad Roberts, Mt. Lebanon Lodge No. 226, Lebanon; Lt.
Richard Gibble, Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551, Mt. Joy; Cpt. William Foutz,
Mount Olivet Lodge No. 704, Lebanon. Third row, l-r: Bros. Ret. Cpt. George
Himmelright, White Rose Lodge No. 706, York, and Lodge No. 43, Lancaster;
Ret. Lt. Doug Martin, Steelton-Swatara Lodge No. 775, Steelton; Ret. Cpt.
Kevin Organtini, P.M., Mt. Lebanon Lodge No. 226 and Isaac Hiester Lodge
No. 660, West Reading; Ret. Tpr. James Schlemmer, P.M., Ashara-Casiphia
Lodge No. 551; Ret. Col. Paul Evanko, Steelton-Swatara Lodge No. 775,
Steelton; and Ret. Sgt. Serell Ulrich, P.M., William S. Snyder Lodge No. 756,
Harrisburg.
Congratulations to…
20 LODGE AND DISTRICT
Pennsylvania Freemason
2
Mitchell Lodge No. 296, Jenkintown, constituted on Sept. 12, 1855,
celebrates its 160th anniversary this year. The above photo was taken at
the celebration. Other noteworthy events from 1855 included:
• Pennsylvania State College was chartered as Farmers High School
of Pa. It opened for students in 1859, became the PA Agricultural
College in 1863 and is now known as “Penn State” – the first of
the land grant colleges.
• Gold was first used for filling teeth.
• I.M. Singer patented the first sewing machine motor.
• The first oil refinery was started by S. M. Kier in Pittsburgh.
Lodges celebrating their 150th Anniversary:
Elysburg Lodge No. 349, formed by the Dec. 27, 2008 merger of Catawissa
Lodge No. 349, constituted Jan. 24, 1865, and Elysburg Lodge No. 414,
constituted on Feb. 24, 1870
Oxford Lodge No. 353, constituted on June 15, 1865
Sylvania Lodge No. 354, Shickshinny, constituted on June 29, 1865
In the year that these three lodges were constituted:
• Gen. Robert E. Lee surrendered to Gen. Ulysses S. Grant at
Appomattox Court House, ending the Civil War on April 9.
• On April 14, President Abraham Lincoln was shot by John Wilkes
Booth while attending a theatrical performance at Ford’s Theater.
He succumbed to his injuries, and Vice President Br. Andrew
Johnson became President.
• Bro. Andrew Gregg Curtin was Governor of Pennsylvania.
• The U.S. Secret Service was founded.
• The Thirteenth Amendment to abolish slavery was ratified.
• Wild Bill Hickok shot Dave Tutt dead in the first true western
showdown in Springfield, Mo.
• Andrew Carnegie entered the steel business with Andrew Klopman.
• The Stetson “10-gallon” hat was created by Bro. John B. Stetson.
• Potato chips were introduced.
Youghiogheny Lodge No. 583, McKeesport, will celebrate its 125th
Anniversary on Dec. 15 (constituted in 1890). Other important events
of that year included:
• The Sherman Antitrust Act was passed.
• Idaho and Wyoming become the 43rd and 44th states, respectively.
• The first Army-Navy game was played at West Point.
• The first Tournament of Roses Parade was held in Pasadena, Calif.
• Invented were: the mechanized shooting gallery by C.W. Parker of
Abilene, Kan.; the corrugated cardboard box by Robert Gair; Ever
Ready batteries, the first commercial dry cell batteries, by National
Carbon Company; and punch-card processing (and modern computers)
by Herman Hollerith, to record U.S. census statistics which enabled
the Census Bureau to tabulate results in just six weeks.
• The New York Phonograph Co. opened the first recording studio.
• Founded were: The United Mine Workers of America, The Daughters
of the American Revolution and the Colonial Dames.
• Yosemite National Park and Sequoia National Park were created
by an act of Congress.
Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, (constituted
Sept. 15, 1915), celebrates its 100th Anniversary. Other events of that
year included:
• Congress designated the U.S. Coast Guard (begun in 1790) as a
military branch.
• The first stop sign appeared in Detroit.
• The Pennsylvania Railroad began electrified commuter rail service
using overhead AC trolley wires for power.
Seneca Lodge No. 805, Kittanning, will celebrate its 50th Anniversary
on Dec. 11 (constituted in 1965).
November 2015
FREEMASON 21
At the 2015 Supreme Council Annual Meeting of the Scottish
Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, in Indianapolis, Bro. Russell
W. Baker, 33°, P.D.D.G.M., Howell Lodge No. 405, Honey Brook,
was awarded the Medal of Honor. The Medal of Honor may be
conferred by the Supreme Council or by the Sovereign Grand
Commander upon any person, whether or not a member of the
jurisdiction or a member of any Body of the Rite, in recognition of
distinguished service to Freemasonry, country or humanity. Bro.
Russell retired as Grand Almoner and as Deputy for Pennsylvania.
R.W. Past Grand Master Thomas K. Sturgeon, 33°, succeeds him
as Deputy for Pennsylvania.
Supporters Sought
for Advanced Education Scholarship Fund
Virginia Migrala, Director of Children’s Services, recently
announced that the Masonic Children’s Home has established an
Advanced Education Scholarship Fund for graduates who attend
college or trade school. The first major planned gift designated for
the new fund has been disclosed by Bro. Howard Guest, WilliamsonCorinthian Lodge No. 368, Philadelphia, and his wife, Elizabeth, of
Chambersburg, Pa.
Bro. Howard recently toured the Masonic Children’s Home
with Chief Gift Planning Officer Bro. Alvin Blitz, met some of the
students and attended Youth Appreciation Day activities.
“You could see that the Masonic Children’s Home had prepared
them both academically and physically,” Bro. Howard said, “It was
most pleasant and reassuring to visit. You could see in each child a
beautifully developed character, as the children’s home has given them
the armor and skills to negotiate the perilous paths to the future.”
When asked why it brought him joy to make a planned gift
designated for advanced education at the Masonic Children’s Home,
Bro. Howard related that he appreciated the thoroughness of thought
given to matching the abilities and interests of each child to an
appropriate post high school experience. The Masonic Children’s
Home provides each student with the necessary financial resources
and encouragement to pursue either college, a trade school or military
service. “I see a rosy future for the children,” Bro. Howard said.
“We need all types of training,” Bro. Howard pointed out, and he
is a living example of his own philosophy. His varied life and training
included the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, Penn State University
and Temple University. His career included 30 years as a teacher
and school principal, 20 years in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
and many years in housing rehab and leasing. This planned gift is a
good illustration of the matching of the passions and experiences of
a donor with the specific purpose of a charitable fund.
Presently, 10 graduates of the Masonic Children’s Home are in
trade school or college, and that number is expected to increase to
15 students within the next couple of years. According to Virginia,
without the new fund, the children’s home would be strained to
provide the necessary funding to ensure that every graduate receives
a fully funded education.
The Advanced Education Scholarship Fund goal is $5 million.
Special donor recognition is provided for a contribution of $100,000
or a planned gift of $100,000 combined with an annual cash pledge
of $5,000. Those making an outright gift, pledge or planned gift
such as a gift annuity or future bequest, can be recognized. If you
are interested in receiving information on how you can support
this new fund, please contact the Masonic Charities Office of Gift
Planning at 800-599-6454.
22 FREEMASON
Pennsylvania Freemason
“Benjamin’s Field Trilogy” by J.J. Knights
Reviewed by Cathy Giaimo, Assistant Librarian, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania
Bro. James J. Knights, Harmony
Lodge No. 429, Zelienople, has written
an expansive historic novel that he has
divided into three parts. Bro. Knights tells
the story of three generations of a struggling
farm family in Western Pennsylvania
during the years between World War I
and World War II.
In “Book One: Rescue” we meet
Benjamin Kyner, widowed farmer and
Freemason, his son, Francis, and others
in this small community just as war is
breaking out in Europe. Francis is fascinated
by the newfangled flying machines, and
just as the United States enters the war, he
volunteers his service in the Army Signal
Corps. By the end of the book, Benjamin
Kyner has lost his son, discovered he has
an infant grandson with a handicap and must come to terms with
his anger and bitterness at the blows life has landed him.
“Book Two: Ascent” finds grandson Jeremy Kyner, a young
teenager learning how not to let his handicap define him, and like
his father, developing a love for aviation. With the help of two of his
best friends and the caring adults in his life, Jeremy builds a glider
for the school science fair and successfully gets it off the ground.
In “Book Three: Emancipation” Jeremy
is now a young adult with a burgeoning
career in engineering when Pearl Harbor
is bombed. Like many of his generation,
Jeremy volunteers for military service, only
to be turned down due to his corrective
surgery years earlier. After enduring that
humiliation, he learns of the Civil Air
Patrol, a civilian organization that patrols
the U.S. coastline and watches for German
U-boats. It is this fateful step that brings
events that were started in the first book
full circle.
Within these three books, Bro. Knights
discusses Freemasonry, the Catholic Church,
the good work of Shriners Hospitals, vintage
aeronautics, WWI and WWII air-to-air
combat, as well as friendship, faith and
family – all that make life what it is.
If you are interested in any of the three books of “Benjamin’s
Field,” please contact the library at 800-462-0430, ext. 1933, or visit
The Masonic Library & Museum online catalog at www.pagrandlodge.
org. This book is also available for purchase from the Museum Shop
in the Masonic Temple at www.masonicmuseumgifts.com.
Librarian Elected Secretary of International
Masonic Library and Museum Association
Assistant Librarian Cathy Giaimo was elected Secretary of the Masonic Library and
Museum Association (MLMA) at its annual meeting in September. A graduate of the Moore
College of Art and Design, Cathy worked as a Library Assistant at the Philadelphia Museum
of Art while earning her master of library science at Drexel University. She then worked in
the library at The North American Publishing Co. in Philadelphia before joining the staff of
The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania in 1996, a few months after the MLMA
was formally organized.
The mission of the MLMA is “to assist and support, through education, facilitation of
communication, coordination of effort and other means, those individuals charged with the
collection, management and preservation of the Masonic heritage.” The approximately 100
members hail from many nations, and the association meets annually in the autumn – each time
in a different city – usually in the United States or Canada. Institutions as well as individuals
may join, as the only requirement is a sincere interest in the work of Masonic libraries and
museums. The website can be found at www.masoniclibraries.org.
FREEMASON 23
November 2015
Grand Master Hosts Temple Tours
Grand Master,
On behalf of all Widows Sons, I cannot thank you and the staff of
Grand Lodge enough for your hospitality and participation at our recent
gathering! I received countless compliments on not only the incredible
beauty of the Temple, but also on your and the staff’s tremendous effort
to make all feel welcome!
- William “Bill” J. Huston, D.D.G.M.-41
The 13 chapters of the PA Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association
combined in Philadelphia on July 25 for its sixth annual PA Widows
Sons Grand Master’s Charity Event and Grand Gathering. Also in
attendance were Widows Sons chapters from other jurisdictions
including New Jersey, Kentucky, Vermont, Virginia and New York.
The keystone of the event was a luncheon and tour of the Grand
Lodge, graciously hosted by R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman.
Over 150 Widows Sons and ladies enjoyed the Grand Lodge tour,
accompanied by bus tours of historic Philadelphia. Grand Master
Bateman accepted a plaque commemorating his tremendous support
of the Widows Sons.
Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association is an internationally
recognized Masonic entity whose charter purpose is the aid of our
Masonic widows and orphans, as well as other charitable causes. The
proceeds from the PA 2015 Grand Master’s event will, as in previous
years, be contributed to the Masonic Children’s Home in Elizabethtown.
On Sept. 5, R.W. Grand Master Robert J. Bateman hosted a group
of 18 brethren from District 7 on a tour of the Masonic Temple in
Philadelphia. Most of the brethren were members of Chandler Lodge
No. 227, West Reading, along with brothers from St. John’s Lodge No.
435, West Reading, and Reading Lodge No. 549. Many were relatively
new members of the Craft, and this was their first opportunity to
visit the magnificent Temple. The tour was organized by Bro. James
Frank, Chandler Lodge No. 227, nephew of Grand Master Bateman.
After an interesting, and sometimes behind-the-scenes tour, the group
enjoyed lunch in the Wanamaker Dining Room.
6th Annual Masonic Restoration Foundation Symposium
During the weekend of August 21-23, the Masonic Temple
hosted the 6th Annual Masonic Restoration Foundation (MRF)
Symposium. At the festive board, Wor. Bro. Robert Herd was the
keynote speaker describing “Freemasonry’s Near Death Experience.”
After the invocation on Saturday morning, Bro. Thomas W.
Jackson, R.W. Past Grand Secretary, a member of the board of
directors of the foundation, gave an address welcoming the brethren
to the symposium and the Masonic Temple.
Wor. Bro. Andrew Hammer, President of the MRF, opened the
Symposium with an address titled, “The Role of the MRF in North
American Masonry.” The sessions featured talks on “The Initiatory
Experience and Human Nature,” “Incorporating the Fine Arts into
the Lodge,” “Constituting a New Observant Lodge,” “Restoring the
Culture of an Existing Lodge,” “Admit Him if Properly Clothed,”
“Come to Your Senses,” and “Restoration through the Centuries.”
The closing address by Wor. Bro. Oscar Alleyne was titled, “Can We
Transform a Brotherhood of Change?” All were aimed at encouraging
lodges to do their utmost to promote outstanding lodge experiences,
especially through restoration of early Masonic practices. Examples
include taking great care in the performance of the ritual work, paying
attention to the educational needs of the candidate and learning from
the best Masonic traditions of the past. Each talk presented ideas to
this effect from the unique perspective of each speaker.
In addition, the participants enjoyed a tour of the Masonic
Temple, experienced the conferral of the Entered Apprentice Degree
by members of Fritz Lodge No. 308, Conshohocken, held a reception
and town hall question-and-answer session with the panel of speakers;
and enjoyed a good, old fashioned night on the town.
24 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION
Pennsylvania Freemason
DeMolays Lead Masonic Village Wellness Parade
The Pennsylvania DeMolay Key Man Conference, in its 30th
consecutive year, has long held a part of its week-long program at Masonic
Village at Elizabethtown. This allows the DeMolays and DeMolay
Sweethearts to take part in service projects at the Masonic Village
and to interact with the residents. The projects have included visits
with residents, carnivals, dances, casino parties and ice cream socials.
This year, the project was on the closing day of a weeklong wellness
program for Masonic Village residents which had them participating
in a parade from the Masonic Health Care Center to the Veterans
Grove where they witnessed a Civil War drama. The DeMolays
wrote and acted out a costumed re-enactment of Pickett’s Charge
at the Bloody Angle, the center of the Union line, and the chance
meeting of two Masonic brothers on the battlefield – Union Capt.
Henry H. Bingham and Confederate Gen. Lewis A. Armistead – as
depicted in the Friend-to-Friend Masonic Monument in Gettysburg.
DeMolays provided escorts to the Veterans Grove for residents
using wheelchairs and created an honor guard lined with DeMolays
proudly displaying flags of the United States. The young men dressed
as Union and Confederate soldiers and had a brief battle, after which
the dramatic meeting between Brothers Bingham and Armistead
took place. Carlisle Chapter’s Tyler Ball portrayed Armistead, while
Elizabethtown Chapter’s Daniel Sellers played Bingham. Allentown
Chapter’s Daniel Shevalier provided a short historical review, and
Tyler Swansey of Virginia DeMolay and R.E. Grand Commander
John A. Habel, Jr., of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templars
in Pennsylvania, offered closing remarks. The program closed with
a prayer by Grand Chaplain Rev. A. Preston Van Duersen, followed
by a stirring rendition of “God Bless America” led by Elizabethtown
Chapter DeMolay Advisor Bro. Russell Baker.
November 2015
PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION 25
Growing by Leaps and Pledges!
Pennsylvania Rainbow Girls membership is on the rise! How, you might ask? The answer
is the success of our Pledge Program. Pledges are girls ages 6-10 who meet once a month for
ritual, crafts, food and fellowship.
Once a year, we invite our pledges to learn even more about Rainbow Girls by joining us
at a Patton Weekend. From Aug. 21-23, 29 pledges joined 31 Rainbow Girls (under the age
of 14) and 28 of the Grand Officers and had an AWESOME Rainbow experience! The older
girls mentored the pledges while they played games, made greeting cards for residents at the
Masonic Village, had a demonstration pledge meeting, made “magic wands,” swam and drank
lots of chocolate milk.
There are 90 pledges in groups across our state. There might be a Pledge Group associated
with your local assembly. If so, checking out their meetings and activities is a heartwarming
and rewarding experience! We are “Growing PA Rainbow – Together” … Initiating our Pledge
Girls as soon as they turn 11!
Rainbow Girls
Spread Cheer through Charity
Each year, the Rainbow Girls of Pennsylvania support at least two charity projects
on a state-wide level: the state charity and the Grand Worthy Advisor’s charity, as well
as local projects in each assembly.
At the Grand Assembly, Pennsylvania Rainbow presented two checks to worthy
charities.
Junior Past Grand Worthy Advisor Ashley Loeb chose “Operation Smile” as her
charity, and through her efforts and the efforts of all of Pennsylvania Rainbow, the
organization donated $7,511.43 to aid children with cleft lips and palates.
For the past few years, Pennsylvania Rainbow’s state charity has been “My Stuff
Bags,” which provides blue duffel bags with items that children in the foster care system
can take with them when they move from home to home. Thanks to the efforts of all
of Pennsylvania Rainbow, under the guidance of Sister Stephanie Rickert, Past Grand
Charity, the organization donated $2,410.15 for this cause.
For the 2015-2016 year, the Grand Worthy Advisor’s charity will be the “Make-AWish” Foundation.
Meet Rainbow Girls
Grand Worthy Advisor
Betsy Stowinsky, 20, of Washington, Pa., is honored and excited to be Grand Worthy
Advisor for 2015-2016. She joined Martha Assembly No. 11, Washington, at age 11. She has
served as Worthy Advisor, Grand Representative to Virginia and Massachusetts, Grand Service,
Grand Nature, Grand Faith and Grand Drill Leader. This fall, she begins her junior year at
California University of Pennsylvania where she is majoring in communication: TV and radio.
She loves helping people and claims that her favorite exercise is laughing. Her fondest memory
is her initiation into the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls.
26 PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION
Pennsylvania Freemason
Fourth in the Nation!
Job’s Daughters is excited to announce that their International Charity – the HIKE
Fund – has reached its 30th anniversary this year! The fund provides hearing devices for
children between the ages of newborn and 20 with hearing losses whose parents are unable
to meet this special need financially. An estimated 100 children are provided with hearing
devices each year.
Pennsylvania Job’s Daughters have actively supported this charity, having raised a total of
$214,000, which ranks them fourth in the nation for total fundraising. At the recent annual
Job’s Daughters International Supreme Session, it was announced that the HIKE fund has
raised over $5 million for youth with hearing impairments. Many Daughters in Pennsylvania
reach the $1,000 mark individually for raising donations. This past year, two Daughters were
honored at the annual Supreme Session: Miss Romaynse Smith, from Mechanicsburg, raised
almost $5,000, and Miss Maitland Witmer, from York, raised $2,000.
Meet Miss Job’s Daughter of PA
Miss Kearstyn Kepler, 17, was selected Miss Job’s Daughter of Pennsylvania at the annual
scholarship pageant in April. She is a senior at Northeastern High School in Manchester,
Pa., and she hopes to attend Temple University, Philadelphia, to major in education with
minors in music and psychology.
A seven-year member in Job’s Daughters Bethel No. 1, York, Kearstyn has held many
offices including Honored Queen. Her duties include representing Pennsylvania in the Miss
International Job’s Daughter Pageant and at statewide Masonic family events around the
Commonwealth. If you see Kearstyn, ask her how Job’s Daughters can help any girl grow in
poise, confidence, academics and social ability!
Job’s Daughters Opens Membership
Voting delegates at Supreme Session for Job’s Daughters
International (JDI) amended their law regarding membership
eligibility. If after a diligent search for “Masonic heritage” (relationship
by bloodline or marriage), nothing can be found for a candidate, a
young girl can now join Job’s Daughters as long as a majority member
of Job’s Daughters and a Master Mason sponsor her to join. This is
an exciting new option for Job’s Daughters who occasionally would
recruit a new member, only to disappoint her after finding out that
she wasn’t eligible to join. This new ruling opens the doors for
many new members while also increasing support from alumni and
cooperating lodges.
November 2015
PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION 27
DeMolay Charitable Outreach
For 16 years, the Pennsylvania DeMolary charity has been the Scottish Rite Children’s Dyslexia Centers, which provide no-cost
tutoring to children diagnosed with dyslexia. Many of our DeMolay chapters have established excellent working relationships with several
of the centers in Pennsylvania, supporting their various fund raising activities, especially the walks. Annually, the Pennsylvania DeMolay
State Sweetheart undertakes the project of encouraging the chapters to raise funds for the various centers. Miss Alicia Daniels, who retired
as State Sweetheart in July, started out her year with a goal of raising at least $6,000, the approximate cost to put one child through one
year of tutoring at a center.
Through the distribution of Mini M&M tubes that were emptied and then filled with quarters, cash (including at least one $100
bill!) and checks by DeMolays, advisors, many lodges and other organizations in the Masonic family; ice water bucket challenges at Key
Man University 2014; and various fundraisers held by the chapters, a total of $13,914 was raised – double Alicia’s goal – and donated to
the centers! All 10 lodges that meet in Masonic District 1, with the encouragement of District Deputy Grand Master Larry A. Derr and
District Youth Chairman Steven J. Smith, supported the quarter collection, donating a total of $2,580 toward the total.
While many DeMolay chapters are also supportive of local charities in their communities, the long-term commitment to the Children’s
Dyslexia Centers has been something to celebrate, as in the 16 years of giving, over $124,000 has been donated to the Pennsylvania centers.
Meet DeMolay State Master
Councilor
Adam T. Pritchard, a Past Master Councilor of Reading Chapter, Order of DeMolay, was
elected and installed as Pennsylvania DeMolay’s 81st State Master Councilor at the annual
convention held in Gettysburg the weekend of July 17. Bro. Pritchard, a four-year member of
DeMolay, joined Chandler Lodge No. 227, West Reading, in 2013, and has started his junior year
at Kutztown University, majoring in industrial organizational psychology. He is a Representative
DeMolay, a Chevalier and served as State Senior Councilor last year. His program as State
Master Councilor is “Be Different,” in which he is challenging the members and advisors of the
DeMolay Chapters in Pennsylvania to try at least one different activity, or different approach to
an activity, in hope of generating greater interest from the current members and new petitioners.
His term will conclude on July 17, 2016, at the
Seven Springs Resort in Champion, Pa.
Masonic Scholarships
Make an Impact on Students
Over $123,000 was given out in 2015 and another $39,000 promised as conditional
recurring awards by the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation through its Educational
Endowment Fund. In 2016, it is estimated that between 55 and 60 students will be selected to receive awards ranging from $1,000 to $3,000,
including multi-year awards. The annual program is open now and runs through March 15, 2016, which is the final submission date for
applications. Applicants MUST PLAN AHEAD to file on time, as copies of school transcripts and current tax returns or the FAFSA
form must accompany the application. The committee requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and strong financial need to make an award. The
program is competitive in that the current year’s applicants are measured against each other to determine need and likelihood for success.
Along with the Educational Endowment Fund Scholarships, the 2016 Masonic Scholarship Resource Guide provides information
on 66 other scholarships, grants and loan opportunities for Masons, their siblings, children and grandchildren; members of the Masonicrelated youth groups; Acacia Fraternity members; and residents or graduates of the Masonic Children’s Home. The Masonic Scholarship
Resource Guide for the 2016 program and the 2016 application are now available at www.pmyf.org.
28 MASONIC VILL AGES
Autumn Day
Saturday, September 19, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
2015
Pennsylvania Freemason
It was a picture-perfect day as 7,000 visitors enjoyed the beautiful
Elizabethtown campus and spent quality time with members, friends
and residents.
Festivities included musical entertainment, traditional Autumn
Day fare, Zembo Shrine clowns, farm market stands, farm animals,
sales of crafts and hand-carved items made by residents, and Masonic
organizations booths. Masonic Children’s Home residents and
Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation youth groups offered
activities for kids. The Masonic Blood Club hosted a blood drive
with the Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank. In the Masonic Health
Care Center, residents enjoyed food, music by Masonic Village music
therapists and games. Visitors toured the campus and stopped by the
Model Railroad Club’s open house. Al Wiesner sketched dozens of
caricatures, and the Penn State Nittany Lion made an appearance!
Save the date for next year’s event on Saturday, Sept. 24!
2015 Sewickley Community Festival
More than 1,000 people spent a fun-filled day at the second
annual Masonic Village at Sewickley Community Festival and Open
House on Sept. 26. The festivities kicked off with the Syria Shrine’s
Parade, which featured their Legion of Honor, Motor Corps, Arab
Patrol, Highlanders Pipe Band, Shrine Chanters, Shriners Band,
Camel Wheels and, of course, clowns!
Visitors also enjoyed live entertainment; a vendor show with
crafts, handmade items and wholesale items; booths featuring local
businesses, fire and rescue and Masonic groups; a wing cook-off among
local restaurants; KDKA 1020 AM & 93.7 The Fan participation;
and tours of the retirement community and Sturgeon Health Care
Center. Kids’ activities included a petting zoo, the Pirate Pierogi, a
bounce house, face painting and a Child Identification Program.
See you at next year’s event on Saturday, Sept. 17!
MASONIC VILL AGES 29
November 2015
l-r: Bro. Wendell Hunt; Bro. Ronald A. Aungst, Sr., R.W.P.G.M.; Dr. and Bro. John Kolchin; Rep. Karen Boback; Bro. John Bozette; Bro. Merr
Trumbore; Bro. Marvin A. Cunningham, Sr., R.W.P.G.M.; and Bro. Allen Henninger, P.D.D.G.M. Photo credit: Kevin Greenberg.
3 Brethren, 3 States, 3 Awards, 1 Community
Three residents of the Masonic Village at Dallas, hailing from
three states, were honored with Masonic Service Awards by two
Past Grand Masters of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania on July
15. Representative Karen Boback also attended the ceremony to
recognize the recipients for their significant commitment to the
oldest and largest fraternity in the world.
Bro. John Bozette, a member of Honesdale Masonic Lodge
No. 218, received a 60-year pin for his service to the Grand Lodge
of Pennsylvania. Bro. and Dr. John Kolchin, a member of Lehigh
Masonic Lodge No. 326, Macungie, Pa., and Canon Masonic Lodge
No. 104, N.J., received a 50-year pin for his service to the Grand
 Apples, apple cider, neck pumpkins
 Local broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage
 Fresh baked pies, apple dumplings,
cookies, donuts and much more
de
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ou r 5 2 0
y
e i n- 361- 4
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o
P h a t 71 7
Holiday gift ideas in many price ranges
Gift boxes of fruit and jars shippable to anywhere in the USA.
View our online catalog at www.MVFarmMarket.com,
or call in your orders to 717-361-4520.
 Original Honey Baked Hams
 Order now for Thanksgiving
and Christmas. We’ll do the work,
you take the credit!
Lodge of New Jersey. Bro. Merr Trumbore, a member of George
M. Dallas Lodge No. 531, Pa., and a former member of Aberdeen
Masonic Lodge No. 187, Md., received a 50-year pin for his service
to the Grand Lodge of Maryland.
R.W. Past Grand Master Marvin A. Cunningham, Sr., also
a resident of the Masonic Village at Dallas, and R.W. Past Grand
Master Ronald A. Aungst, Sr., presented the awards. Wendell
Hunt, D.D.G.M.-14, was also in attendance. Bro. Allen Henninger,
P.D.D.G.M., resident of the Masonic Village at Dallas, served as
Master of Ceremonies.
r
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Facebook.
Farm Market Hours: Mon. - Sat., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
310 Eden View Road, Elizabethtown
Located on the grounds of the Masonic Village
717-361-4520 • www.MVfarmmarket.com
30 MASONIC VILL AGES
Pennsylvania Freemason
Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill Datestone Set
On Sept. 18, 2015, residents, staff, Grand Lodge Officers and Masonic Villages’ board of directors gathered at the Masonic Village at
Lafayette Hill to mark the completion of the recent additions to the community and dedicate the new building by consecrating it with a
datestone. Shown above are the Grand Lodge Officers performing the ceremony and the National Sojourners leading the processional.
Within the datestone, documents and photos representing the Masonic Village were stored to be opened in the future.
“Fall” in Love with Masonic Villages!
Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill
The brand new apartment building officially opened on Aug.
19. It features 60 apartments including two-bedroom models with
approximately 1,120 sq. ft. of living space, two baths, a patio or
balcony, granite countertops, stainless steel kitchen appliances,
walk-in closets and a washer/dryer.
Schedule a personal tour of these beautiful apartments, and see why
Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill is right for you! Call for more
information: 610-828-5760.
Masonic Village at Sewickley
With trips to nearby Pittsburgh, many residents engaged in active
retirement this summer. Shopping, educational opportunities, sport
outings and sight-seeing were just some of the activities that residents
enjoyed, all while being able to return home to the wide-open space
and comfort of the Masonic Village at Sewickley in the evening.
Explore this beautiful lifecare community during its Holiday
Open House on Dec. 9 at 10 a.m. R.S.V.P. by Dec. 2.
To attend an event or schedule a personal visit, call 412-749-6862.
Masonic Village at Dallas
Visit Masonic Village at Dallas this fall, tour our villas and
apartments and see why this community has become so popular!
Looking for a fun way to get into the holiday spirit? Join us for the
Annual Holiday Arts and Music Celebration on Dec. 2! Drop-in
between noon-3 p.m.; to help us prepare, please R.S.V.P. by Nov. 30.
For more information or to schedule a personal tour, call
570-675-1866.
Masonic Village at Elizabethtown
Residents enjoyed sunny days at nearby local attractions this
summer including visits to the Elizabethtown Fair, Lancaster city
and Hershey attractions.
Make sure to come by and tour the Masonic Village at
Elizabethtown’s campus, cottages, apartments and the local attractions
this season!
For more information or to schedule a personal tour, call
800-676-6452.
MASONIC VILL AGES 31
November 2015
Qty. Capital Need
Cost Per Item
Masonic Village at Elizabethtown
42
Wheelchair cushions - specialty
$500
5
iPads
$600
5
Computer tablets
$700
1
Espresso machine
$800
4
Electric lift recliners
$900
23
Wheelchairs - specialty
$1,000
11
Bose stereo systems
$1,100
5
Shower chairs
$1,500
15
Wheelchairs - specialty w/customized
$1,500
2
TVs for spas - wall mounted
$1,600
1
Eva Pneumatic platform walker
$1,800
2
Wheelchairs - tilt & space
$2,000
5
Wheelchairs - Broda
$2,100
4
Sleeper chairs with casters
$2,500
15
Specialty mattresses
$2,500
1
Portable sound system
$2,502
2
Beds - pivot
$3,700
1
Lift - overhead
$4,667
1
NuStep machine
$5,600
2
Pianos (Roland - acoustic)
$6,000
4
Wheelchair glider swings
$6,000
1
Golf cart (street legal - 6-passenger wheelchair)
$15,000
Musical instruments
$5-$500
Masonic Children’s Home
40
Holiday gift fund
$50
7
College books (stipend)
$1,000
Camps/excursions
$3,500
1
HersheyPark trip
$2,250
1
Wildwood, N.J. trip
$4,450
Bleiler Cottage Needs
1
Refrigerator
$1,300
Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill
District of Columbia museums with lunch & transportation $2,400
Harvest Ball event
$2,500
Drama lessons/activities for residents
$3,000
Masonic Village at Sewickley
1
Hand rail tilt & roll scale
$1,550
1
ARJO sit to stand lift
$4,100
1
4-channel e-stimulation - electric
$4,400
1
Occupancy sensors for apartment hallway
$20,000
Masonic Village at Dallas
1
Wii game set
$300
2
Handicap accessible picnic tables
$900
1
Gazebo
$10,532
Masonic Village at Warminster
10
Wood working kits
$100
1
Pergola with awning
$6,000
MASONIC
VILLAGES’
2015
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:
Masonic Village at Elizabethtown:
Bro. Harold and Jill Bucks: Wellness Center wish list
Bro. Lester Sutter: Silent alarm system
Jerusalem Lodge No. 506: Wheelchair cushions
Masonic Children’s Home:
Anonymous: Printer, outdoor play equipment
Bro. Ronald McKnight and Bro. Samuel McElheny: Various items
Bro. Alois and Margaret Spease: Picnic table
Bro. Fred and Mary Jane Sample, Richard Vaux Ivanhoe Lodge No.
384, Bro. George and A. Lucille Meissner: College books
Jerusalem Lodge No. 506: Wildwood, N.J. trip
Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill:
Jerusalem Lodge No. 506: Trip to Washington, D.C.
Masonic Village at Sewickley:
William Richards: Gazebo
Alma Casaro: Various items
Masonic Village at Warminster:
Jerusalem Lodge No. 506: Fish aquarium, aromatherapy kit, music
therapy
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.
Please note that if funds donated for any item listed are oversubscribed, the funds will be used for additional wish list items or
needs in the same service area.
Guaranteed
Lifetime
Income
The need for a reliable income source is of special importance.
Why not consider replacing that low rate CD or money market
fund with a higher payout rate from a charitable gift annuity? For
greater savings, you can transfer any stock or mutual fund (except
from an IRA) to fund your annuity and avoid taxes you would have
incurred on the sale of such holdings.
Because the amounts transferred to fund your annuity are
irrevocable, you receive a charitable tax deduction which, in most
cases, is equal to more than half the value of your annuity. Best of
all, any remaining funds available at the conclusion of the annuity
will go to the Masonic charity of your choice.
It doesn’t get any better than this. You get:
1. A great payout rate.
2. Possible avoidance of capital gain taxes.
3. A charitable tax deduction.
4. The satisfaction of supporting the Masonic charity of your choice.
Sample rates for single or joint life annuities are listed in the
box below. Contact us today or send in the coupon below to get a
personal illustration of the benefits you can receive with a charitable
gift annuity from the Masonic Charities.
SAMPLE GUARANTEED LIFETIME RATES
For One Life
For Two Lives
Age
Rate
Age
Rate
70
5.1%
70 & 75
4.8%
75
5.8%
75 & 80
5.3%
77
6.2%
78 & 81
5.6%
81
7.0%
83 & 83
6.3%
85
7.8%
85 & 87
7.0%
90+
9.0%
85 & 90
7.3%
Note: This is a partial listing. Rates exist for any combination of ages.
Minimum contribution $5,000. Minimum age 65.
COMPLETE AND MAIL THIS FORM TO:
Office of Gift Planning, One Masonic Dr., Elizabethtown, PA 17022
Telephone 800-599-6454
I would like more information, with no obligation. Please:
 Send me a Charitable Gift Annuity illustration.
Name(s)__________________________________________________________
Address__________________________________________________________
Telephone: (
)_________________________________________
Email:_____________________________________________________
My birth date____________ Spouse’s birth date____________ (if two lives)
Dollar amount(s) to be illustrated (up to three amounts)_________________
_________________________________________________________________
If using appreciated stock, estimate cost basis__________________________
www.MasonicCharitiesPa.org
Financial information about Masonic Charities can be obtained by contacting us at 1-800-599-6454. In addition, Masonic Charities is required to file financial information with several states. Colorado: Colorado residents may obtain copies of registration and financial documents from the office of the Secretary
of State, (303) 894-2680, http://www.sos.state.co.us/. Florida: SC No. 00774, A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE, WITHIN THE STATE, 1-800-HELP-FLA. Georgia: full and fair
description of the programs and activities of Masonic Charities and its financial statement are available upon request at the address indicated above. Illinois: Contracts and reports regarding Masonic Charities are on file with the Illinois Attorney General. Maryland: For the cost of postage and copying, documents
and information filed under the Maryland charitable organizations laws can be obtained from the Secretary of State, Charitable Division, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401, (800) 825-4510. Michigan: MICS No. 11796 Mississippi: The official registration and financial information of Masonic Charities may be
obtained from the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office by calling 1-888-236-6167. New Jersey: INFORMATION FILED WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL CONCERNING THIS CHARITABLE SOLICITATION AND THE PERCENTAGE OF CONTRIBUTIONS RECEIVED BY THE CHARITY DURING THE LAST REPORTING
PERIOD THAT WERE DEDICATED TO THE CHARITABLE PURPOSE MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE ATTORNEY GENERAL BY CALLING (973) 504-6215 AND IS AVAILABLE ON THE INTERNET AT www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ocp.htm#charity. REGISTRATION WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL DOES NOT IMPLY
ENDORSEMENT. New York: A copy of the latest annual report can be obtained from the organization or from the Office of the Attorney General by writing the Charities Bureau, 120 Broadway, New York, NY 10271. North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available
from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 1-888-830-4989. Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of Masonic Charities may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free, within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Virginia: Financial statements are
available from the State Office of Consumer Affairs, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23218. Washington: The notice of solicitation required by the Charitable Solicitation Act is on file with the Washington Secretary of State, and information relating to financial affairs of Masonic Charities is available from the
Secretary of State, and the toll-free number for Washington residents: 1-800-332-4483. West Virginia: West Virginia residents may obtain a summary of the registration and financial documents from the Secretary of State, State Capitol, Charleston, WV 25305. REGISTRATION IN THE ABOVE STATES DOES
NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION OF MASONIC CHARITIES BY THE STATE.