Beacon_JanFeb08

BEACONJanuary/February 2008 VOLUME 15, ISSUE 1

A new era in health care has arrived with the Masonic Helping Hands program, which recently debuted in the Springfi eld area. Established to help seniors and

A JOINT PUBLICATION OF THE GRAND LODGE OF OHIO AND THE OHIO MASONIC HOME

Masonic Helping Hands

Making Life EasierHands manager at the new offi ce. “That’s where Masonic Helping Hands can make life easier. Our vision is to provide services in the community with quality staff and competitive pricing.”

The program can offer assistance in several ways. One of the goals is to help clients get the attention they need so family members can be confi dent they are being helped and will be able to take care of other responsibilities.

A licensed nurse will visit a prospective client and their family in their home to match a proper companion based on the client’s situation and needs. A program manager will stay in touch with the client to make sure their needs are being met to their satisfaction.

For more information on Masonic Helping Hands, call 877-564-0210.

Greenville Lodge #143 sponsored a cornerstone laying ceremony on September 23 for the Greenville Public Library for the second time in 106 years. Many local and Masonic groups participated in the parade and ceremony, including library board, state and local political leaders and the Greenville High School Marching Band. In the picture,

disabled adults who wish to remain in their homes, the program will offer direct assistance with things such as light housekeeping, meal preparation, companionship and more.

The program, operated by Masonic Senior Services of Ohio Corp., a subsidiary of The Ohio Masonic Home, is serving Springfi eld and surrounding counties, with plans to open in 2008 near Browning Masonic Community in Waterville and near Western Reserve Masonic Community in Medina.

“While many seniors are more independent and living longer, sometimes a little help is necessary,” said Donna Thompson, Masonic Helping

Cornerstone Laying for Greenville Public Library

Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett, then Deputy Grand Master, applies corn to the cornerstone as part of the ceremony. Behind him, from left, are Grand Master Michael A. Himes, Grand Secretary George O. Braatz, and Grand Tyler Raymond T. Clark.

2 January/ February 2008

Message from the Grand MasterBy Ronald L. Winnett, Grand Master

The Beacon ispublished bi-monthlyPlease report all changes of address to your lodge secretary, who, in turn, will notify the Grand Secretary, who maintains the database that produces The BEACON mailing labels.

Paul Quinn,Director of Marketing and CommunicationsThe Ohio Masonic Home2655 W. National RoadSpringfi eld, OH 45504-3698937/[email protected]

George Braatz, P.G.M.,Grand Secretary atThe Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of OhioP.O. Box 629Worthington, OH 43085614/[email protected]

Elections and installations are over and we are embarking on our Bicentennial Year.

As you are reading this, the District Founders Day Celebrations have concluded. All indications are that Masonry in Ohio is alive and well. There is plenty of enthusiasm!

I hope all lodges are planning social events of their own to include the public and get the word out of who we are and what we do for humanity. Sometimes the best Masonry takes place at times other than on lodge night. Part of your mission is to tell the world the importance that Masonry has played in the formation of our communities and state.

Brethren, this is an exciting time to be a Mason and we have a wonderful opportunity to present Masonry as it is – to make good men better, to lead good moral lives, and to help improve society. Our forefathers laid the foundation that we enjoy today. It is our responsibility to improve upon it.

We have a vital message to offer men of today’s generation that Masonry is just as relevant as in the days of our fathers and grandfathers.

This Masonic year will be very busy with the Bicentennial events

Grand Master Carves Turkey Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett carves the fi rst slices of the turkey at The Ohio Masonic Home’s Springfi eld campus on Thanksgiving. The Grand Master and his wife, Linda, visited the residents there for this festive Holiday meal.

Holiday Joy Dispensed at Ohio Masonic HomeWives of some of the Grand Lodge Offi cers helped greet and hand out fruit to residents of Springfi eld Masonic Community in December at the annual Holiday Party. It was a joyous, colorful event, attended by the Grand Master and other Grand Lodge Offi cers.

going on but there is much to be accomplished.

I think Masonry is gaining steam but we need the commitment of every Brother to promote “The Wonderful World of Freemasonry”!

January/ February 2008 3

Filling Others With The Masonic Mission

By Worshipful Brother Wm. David Bannerman, Chief Executive Offi cer, The Ohio Masonic Home

William David Bannerman, CEO of The Ohio Masonic Home, headquartered in Springfi eld, has been elected to a three-year term on the AOPHA Board of Directors.

As a board member, Bannerman will assist in establishing policy as well as helping to monitor the overall performance of the statewide association and will serve on AOPHA committees as appointed by the chair.

Bannerman has been CEO of The Ohio Masonic Home since 2004, overseeing the organization’s retirement communities, community services and asset

and in defi ning the not-for-profi t difference of AOPHA members.”

Founded in 1937, AOPHA is a statewide association representing approximately 280 not-for-profi t homes, health-related facilities and community services for the aging. The Ohio Masonic Home is one of the founding members of AOPHA.Members are sponsored by reli-gious, fraternal, labor, private and government organizations commit-ted to providing quality services for their residents and for older persons in the community at large.

For more information, visit www.aopha.org.

Ohio Masonic Home CEO Elected to AOPHA BoardBannerman to Serve Three-year Term for Statewide Association

The Bucket and the Dipper is a simple story by Donald O. Clifton. Each of us has a bucket and a dipper. When we say something positive to someone, we fi ll their bucket. When we say something negative, we dip something out of their bucket. Which do you do, fi ll buckets or do you dip into others’ buckets?

This is not just about how you treat your spouse, children, friends and coworkers. It is about your fundamental belief in Freemasonry. When you talk about your Lodge, Chapter, Council, Commandery, and Valley, are you positive or negative? When you talk about Masonic organizations in general, how do you feel?

Take a test. Mark down how many conversations are positive and how many are negative. If you have more negative conversations, you may need others to fi ll your bucket. It is okay to ask others to fi ll your bucket. That is what we do for each other.

There is a closing prayer in the ritual of the Ohio Grand Lodge that is a longer one than we usually say. It says, in part, “…You are now to quit this sacred place to mix again with the world...” Your Masonic organizations exist for that reason, to be a sacred place, a safe haven for you, free from the turbulence of the world. Support each other, uplift each other, and enfold each other in the good we do.

The Ohio Masonic Home exists to fi ll buckets. We are that sacred place for elders to fi nd support for their needs, and fi nd meaning in their lives. Our communities are successful because of great services in specifi c locations. Our I-Care coordinators, care committees and Helping Hands program reach out to support you wherever you are at home. Our Benevolent Endowment Foundation provides opportunities for you to fund our fi lling of buckets and leave your mark on the world.

management. The Ohio Masonic Home’s subsidiary corporations operate retirement communities in Springfi eld, Waterville (Toledo) and Medina (Akron/Canton), as well as home services. Prior to his current position, Bannerman served as executive director of Swan Creek Retirement Community in Toledo.

“I look forward to serving on the Board of AOPHA and working with peers from around the state in helping set sound policy for senior services in Ohio,” Bannerman said. “It remains vital for all of us to work together for the betterment of older Ohioans

We are here for you or for someone you know who needs a little bit of bucket fi lling. Use us. Refer others to us. Take advantage of the services we offer.

Do your part. When you talk about Masonry, fi ll other buckets, don’t dip in them. The good we do is our legacy to the world.

Carl H. Lindner, Jr., has been presented the prestigious 2007 Rufus Putnam Distinguished Service Award of the Grand Lodge of Ohio.

The award, named for Rufus Putnam, one of the earlier lead-ers of the State of Ohio and fi rst Grand Master of the Fraternity in Ohio, was designed to honor distinguished citizens and commu-nity service providers who possess characteristics encouraged among all members of Freemasonry.

Brother Lindner is well known to Ohio Masons as a business leader, philanthropist, former principle owner of the Cincinnati Reds base-ball team, and a Freemason.

The Rufus Putnam award was presented by the 2007 Grand Master Michael A. Himes.

Born in Dayton, Brother Lindner, in 1940, at the age of 21, along with

his father Carl H., Sr., brothers Rob-ert and Richard, and his sister Doro-thy, founded United Dairy Farms. Many of Brother Lindner’s holdings have since been consolidated under American Financial Group, a diver-sifi ed fi nancial holding company.

He has given freely of his time to the community, and provided extensive services on major boards and committees.

In addition, he served on the Founding Board of Directors of the Kennedy Center and has been a devoted supporter of Ford’s Theater in Washington, D.C.

Brother Lindner has been recog-nized by the Jewish community, having received the Jewish Institute of Religious Faith Award, the Inter-national Peace Award, and the Man of the Year Award by United Jewish Appeal. He is said to be the largest non-Jewish contributor to Jewish causes in the United States.

At an early age, with encouragement and guid-ance from his father, Carl H., Sr., Brother Linder, and his two brothers, Richard and Robert, were introduced to Free-masonry. All three brothers are currently 60-year-plus members of Melrose Lodge, No. 671, in Nor-wood, and all three are 33rd Degree Scottish Rite Masons.

While Brother Lindner’s generos-ity to civic organizations and causes may have attracted more public at-tention, he has been very generous, as well, within the Fraternity. He was signifi cantly responsible for the Scottish Rite Valley of Cincinnati’s establishing its fi rst Children’s Learning Center to assist dyslexic children and he recently provided an endowment to establish a second Learning Center at Norwood Masonic Temple.

He has also provided the downtown Cincinnati Masonic Center with gifts to support its operation and completion of several capital projects. Several years ago, the Lindner brothers established an endowment for the Norwood Masonic Temple to provide for its continuing operation.

Over the years, Brother Lindner has been a generous contributor to The Ohio Masonic Home, and The Home’s Community Center has been named in honor of Brother Lindner and his wife, Edyth.

Brother Lindner is most proud of his involvement in 1995 in bringing together the leaders of the Grand


Carl H. Lindner – Business Leader, Philanthropist,Master Mason – Receives Rufus Putnam Award

Ohio Mason Joins Lance Armstrong Foundation TeamAdam M. Clark, Ph.D., a member of College Hill-Harry S. Johnson Lodge #641 in Cincinnati, has been named Director of Health Policy for the Lance Armstrong Foundation, with headquarters in Austin, Texas.

He joined the Lodge in 2000, and formerly was employed as a researcher and administrator for the National Cancer Institute in Washington, DC.

Lance Armstrong, winner of seven Tours de France bicycle races, is an 11-year cancer survivor. After his treatment and recovery, he formed the Foundation. Brother Clark said that part of his job will be to help make the issues regarding cancer a national priority.

Lodge of Ohio and the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio, resulting in a joint recognition of each other, which has led to many joint meetings in the years since. “I have been a Mason for over 60 years and I believe Masonry’s proudest moment came at that historic meeting 10 years ago here in Cincinnati,” Brother Lindner said. “We broke ground that day when we realized that we believed in the same things, had similar purposes, and could do even greater work if we all cooperated.”


Jo Whitacre has always been an independent type of person. When she returned to Ohio in 2002 after spending several years in Florida, Jo wanted a community that would meet her need for independence.

Whether she’s decorating her garden villa home, engaging in her fi tness routine, or whatever she chooses to do on any given day, Jo has found her needs met at Springfi eld Masonic Community.

“I do what I want to do,” Jo said. “I always have.”

Residents are welcome to select their own décor for their homes. Stepping into Jo’s garden villa home, you can see the distinct touches she has added. Having lived for years in the brightness of Florida, she chose darker shades for a change of scenery.

“I wanted something homey but livable,” she said.

Jo enjoys barbecuing outdoors with her friends. She has a view of the woods and occasionally will see deer wander by. She also enjoys cooking and relaxing with neighborhood friends.

Having an active lifestyle for Jo doesn’t just mean being able to go places. It means doing things – the things she’s always been doing. Jo can rattle off a list of sports she’s done – basketball, volleyball and tennis among them. She and her husband used to take trips to Canada to hunt moose. In later years, Jo became active in golf and bowling and was a leading competitive walker in Florida.

These days, Jo has focused on personal fi tness. The Springfi eld campus offers what she needs to reach these goals. The campus has several walking paths, indoors and

Always and Forever

out. On days the weather may not be agreeable, Springfi eld Masonic Community has the perfect solution: an underground walkway connecting all the main buildings on campus for those who want to get in their mileage. Jo said she prefers the indoor walkway, although she sometimes opts for the outside paths when the weather is nice. Jo’s routine includes walking two miles, riding four miles on a stationary

bike and working with weights several days a week in the fi tness center.

Jo said she’s never bothered to get a computer. “I would be too busy with email and never do anything else,” she said, laughing.

Veterans Memorial Dedicated in Tipp City by Grand LodgeGrand Lodge Offi cers assisted Tippecanoe Lodge #174 in dedicating the Veterans Memorial in Tipp City, Ohio, and laying the cornerstone for that city’s park on November 11.

Because of incessant rain, the dedication was moved indoors, into the Broadway Elementary School gym. Approximately 250 Master Masons, plus 1,000 other visitors were present, including representatives of numerous veterans groups.

The ceremonies helped dedicate a 12-foot black granite monument for the city park. It is surrounded by bricks engraved with the names of veterans from the Revolutionary War through today.

Robert W. Terrel, Secretary of Tippecanoe Lodge, presented Most Worshipful Brother Winnett with a certifi cate noting that a

brick had been placed in the park dedicated to the Grand Master’s years as a Command Sergeant Major in the U.S. Army.

In the picture, Grand Master Winnett proclaims the dedication. Behind him, from left, are James F. Easterling, Jr., Grand Marshal; C. Michael Watson, Past Grand Master; Bradford A. Goebel, Junior Grand Warden, and Terry W. Posey, Senior Grand Warden.


A Source of Wisdom

When Edna Greenhorn moved in to one of the fi rst garden villa homes built on the Western Reserve Masonic Community campus, she looked for the campus library. “I was a librarian,” she said. “It’s what I know.”

What she found was a stack of books in the middle of the fl oor. So, she organized the books and volunteered to serve as campus librarian. “Since I don’t have to do maintenance work, I have time to do things I enjoy, like volunteer in the library and sing in the campus choir,” Edna said.

Now, the Western Reserve Masonic Community library circulates about 1,000 books a year. “We have large print books, videos, books on tape, magazines and paperbacks,” Edna said. “The library is in a nice big room with a magnifying reader and new computers.”

Edna said the library has fl ourished since Western Reserve Masonic Community became a subsidiary of The Ohio Masonic Home. “The Ohio Masonic Home has done a lot to make sure we have the materials we need,” she said.

The library is operated by resident volunteers and is open 24 hours a day. “Residents catalog and shelve the books,” Edna said. “Many residents enjoy the library.”

Edna enjoys Western Reserve Masonic Community. “There are so many fun and interesting things to do here,” she said. “It makes me feel good.”

Edna encourages others to join her at Western Reserve Masonic Community. “Don’t wait to come,” she said. “There’s so much to do!”

For more information regarding Western Reserve Masonic Community, call 1-866-433-1514 or visit www.ohiomasonichome.org.

Giving from Charitable Foundation Surpasses $300,000The Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation has now surpassed $300,000 in total grants it has provided to individuals and families in need in its 12 years of existence.

The fi rst grant for $500 was awarded on December 15, 1995, and since then 215 more awards have been made to help distressed Ohioans. Nearly $40,000 was granted in 2007.

While the total given is impressive, the awards are limited to the interest received each year from the endowment. Masons and Lodges are encouraged to donate to the Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation so its generosity may continue to grow in the future.

Forgotten Moonlight LodgesFour Lodges that meet according to the cycles of the moon were mistakenly left out of a recent Beacon article on Moonlight Lodges. They were Leesburg Lodge #78, Western Sun Lodge #91, Portland Lodge #366, and Waterloo Lodge #532, which is the youngest of the Lodges to maintain the Lunar Legacy. In total, Ohio has 15 Moonlight Lodges.

Edna Greenhorn has served as the campus librarian since moving to Western Reserve Masonic Community.


Improvement Projects Offer More to Browning Masonic Community ResidentsMany wait for the New Year to make changes and improvements. Browning Masonic Community got started early.

In October, Browning Masonic Community, located at 8883 Browning Drive in Waterville, began a series of construction projects to enhance life for the residents, staff and visitors.

Harmony Hall, where many meetings and gatherings take place,

got a complete makeover with a new ceiling, fl ooring, countertop and sink. It was topped off with a home theater system. This is where monthly events such as the Browning Brunch Bunch take place. Now the room will be much more versatile for visitors and residents, who can now enjoy a classic movie night and dance on the new fl oor.

The Browning Brunch Bunch is the third Tuesday of each

month and offers a complimentary light brunch. The lunch and learn program is the fi rst Thursday of each month in the dining room with lunch available at a cost. Both feature speakers who will talk about a number of topics.

Cosmetic changes to the dining room will complement the aroma of fresh food. New window coverings and

fresh paint were added to make the appearance that much brighter.

This was just the latest in an ongoing series of cosmetic improve-ments to Browning Masonic Com-munity. Other improvements in recent years include the addition of a spa; Sarah’s Kitchen, a gathering area with a coffee bar feel; an up-dated library and reading area; and an exercise room gave residents and guests new places to enjoy.

A future project will include connecting the walkways outside the villa homes.

Browning Masonic Community also recently added a new chef to its dietary staff. Chef Clark Trow-bridge has earned awards and several culinary degrees during his 35-year cooking career with cake artistry and chocolate making among his talents.

For more information about Browning Masonic Community, call 878-4055 or 866-878-4055.

Grand Lodge Plaque Presented To Pearl Harbor SurvivorBrother Leo Betts was on duty on the USS Nevada in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, when the Japanese attacked, and worked with others to move the battleship toward ground so it would not sink and block the channel. Fifty men and offi cers on the Nevada were killed that day.

On December 8, 2007, Terry W. Posey, Senior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge, on behalf of Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett, presented a plaque to Brother Betts in College Hill-Harry S. Johnson Lodge, No. 641.

In the picture, from left, are Albert L. Young, Past Master; Brother Betts, Right Worshipful Brother Posey, and Richard J. Shields, District Deputy Grand Master.

Brother Betts continued in the Navy and fought in several more battles in the war. He was discharged in 1946 as a well-decorated sailor, with many citations and medals to his credit.

He received his degrees in Harry S. Johnson Lodge in Cincinnati

and became a Master Mason in October 1977.

As a civilian, Brother Betts was an electrical engineer for Standard Oil Company, and moved to Clayton, Ohio, just north of Dayton when he retired. He has been involved in the conception, planning, and building of the current Veterans of Foreign Wars Post home in Clayton.


Grand Lodge Formed 200 Years Ago in JanuaryDuring January, the Ohio Freemasons will begin to celebrate the Bicentennial of the Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of Ohio. The Grand Lodge was formed on January 4, 5, 7, and 8, 1808 in the Chillicothe Statehouse by delegates from the six Masonic Lodges then meeting in Ohio.

The six original Ohio Lodges were spread across the state and met in Cincinnati, Chillicothe, Marietta, Warren, Worthington, and Zanesville.

Actual Anniversary Date, Jan. 4, Allows Grand Lodge to Open TwiceGrand Lodge was opened in emergent session in two cities on January 4, 2008 – to the date, exactly 200 years after the Grand Lodge was formed beginning on January 4, 1808.

Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett opened Grand Lodge during a Founders Dinner in Marietta, the fi rst settlement in Ohio and the location of Ohio’s oldest Lodge, American Union #1.

Past Grand Master Jack L. Allen, at approximately the same time, opened the Grand Lodge in Chillicothe, Ohio, the actual site of the founding of the Grand Lodge in 1808. This “opening” took place in Scioto Lodge #6.

They refl ected the diversity of the early Ohio settlers and operated under the authority of charters issued by East Coast Grand Lodges, including Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. The oldest Lodge was American Union, chartered in 1776, and the youngest was Scioto Lodge, chartered in 1806.

Today, there are more than 520 Masonic Lodges in Ohio with a combined membership of 114,000. As in their pioneer

Bicentennial Prints are AvailablePrints of the painting, “From Whence We Came,” commissioned for the Bicentennial, are now available for order from the Grand Lodge Offi ce, 800-292-6092. The painting is

the creation of Washington, D.C. artist Peter Waddell.

Unsigned prints are available for $100 and signed prints for $200. Matting and framing services are available upon request. The prints are professionally produced on high quality paper, measuring 36” x 24.”

The painting depicts the March 1, 1786 meeting at the Bunch of Grapes Tavern that led to the formation of the Ohio Company of Associates, four of whose leaders were Freemasons. The Ohio Company established the town of Marietta, the fi rst American settlement in what would become the state of Ohio.

past, membership refl ects the community in which the Lodges meet, uniting good men from a variety of social, ethnic, and religious backgrounds.

More information about Ohio Freemasonry and its Bicentennial celebration can be found at www.freemason.com.

Commemorative Bicentennial Items Available For SaleFor those wishing to show their Ohio Masonic pride, commemorative Bicentennial items are available from the Grand Lodge webpage, www.freemason.com, in the Market Place section.

All items are available with the embroidered Bicentennial logo.

Clothing items include: baseball caps for $10, golf shirts from $25 to $52, windbreakers from $32 to $41, denim shirts for $28, fl eece pullovers for $28, tee shirts for $16, and gym shorts for $20. Duffel bags are available for $22 and golf towels for $14.

The on-line Market places allows for purchases to be made by credit card.


Special Bicentennial Jewels For Worshipful Masters

The Home Opens on Route 40 HISTORY OF OHIO FREEMASONRY - PART 2

The selection of Springfi eld, Ohio, as the location for The Ohio Masonic Home was signifi cant. The hill upon which The Home would be built was next to an impor-tant national landmark – the National Road. As train travel became more popular, construction was stopped in 1838 by Congressional order. The road’s completion was later transferred to Indiana and Illinois.

On October 19, 1892, a dedication ceremony was held for The Home. A band and a parade played for crowds who marched from downtown Springfi eld to the facility. The historic event was witnessed by 2,000 Masons and 1,500 Knights Templar. The veil was lifted from the cornerstone of Bushnell Tower, which was laid by Grand Master Levi Goodale and the trowel was passed to Most Worshipful Brother Leander Burdick, Past Grand Master and President of The Ohio Masonic Home Board of Trustees. Brother Burdick’s name, like many others instrumental in creating The Ohio Masonic Home, was lent to a building on the campus: Burdick Hall, which provides dining facilities for skilled nursing residents and connects the Eastern Star and Scottish Rite wings of the Rickly building. The trowel is now on display in Bushnell Hall.

Bushnell Hall, or “the castle on the hill,” as it’s commonly known, was completed and dedicated on October 23, 1895. Although the building was ready, it would be nearly 18 months before resi-dents would move in. That time was spent assembling a staff. The fi rst adult resident admitted was Brother Ralph E. Brown of Youngstown, who arrived March 31, 1897. That year, 45 other Masons arrived as well as 12 wives or widows.

While The Home was created with the intention of helping distressed Master Masons and their widows, another need arose at the time. There were great numbers of abandoned and orphaned children. Seeing this, The Ohio Masonic Home added care of children to its mis-sion. During 1897, applications for 42 children were received and six boys and seven girls were admitted. On April 20 of 1897, Nellie and Nina Shaffer were the fi rst children admitted.

Those adult residents whose health permitted it were allowed to help with maintaining their new home including food preparation and serving, sewing, carpentry and farming. The children also helped with household and outdoor chores.

The children living at The Ohio Masonic Home were not up for adoption. They received schooling and learned life skills and the arts until they were able to return to their parents’ homes or became old enough to move out on their own. The Home would care for children until 1956.

This second in a series celebrating the 200th anniversary of Freemasonry looks at the early days of The Ohio Masonic Home from its cornerstone laying to the arrival of its residents.

This jewel has been specifi cally designed for Worshipful Masters who serve in Ohio Lodges during 2008, the Bicentennial Year. The jewels will be presented by Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett to Worshipful Masters at the Grand Master’s Receptions in each Masonic District this year. The Worshipful Master must be present at the Reception to receive the jewel.


LIFE PLANNINGDo Something for Yourself

Brother Jack LaLanne (Pro Canyon Lodge #557 California) is often called “the godfather of fi tness.” A fi tness pioneer who brought exercise to television in the 1950s, Jack looks to be about half of his 92 years.

LaLanne spoke recently to executives of The Ohio Masonic Home and to the leaders of other Masonic homes at the annual conference of the Masonic Homes Executives Association of North America (MHEANA). “You’re doing a great job,” LaLanne said of the work being done by MHEANA member organizations. “But there is much more to do.”

A Blue Lodge member and a Shriner, LaLanne is proud of his Masonic heritage. “One of the best things I ever did was become a Mason,” he said.

LaLanne believes in daily, vigorous, systematic exercise and proper diet. “My top priority in life is my workout each day.” Jack lives by what he says to others, and he has been doing it for over 75 years.

LaLanne suggested you do the following:

• Eat fruits, vegetables and whole grains. “If man makes it (cakes, pies, soda pop), don’t eat it,” he said.

• Read the labels on your food. “You’re a machine,” he said. “Get the right fuel.”

• Consume less than 2000 calories a day. “Your waist

size shouldn’t grow with age,” he said.

• If you’re watching TV, do some simple exercises during commercials. “Start small and build,” he said.

• Walk. “Put your whole body into it,” he said. “Swing your arms high into the air while you’re walking.”

• Create a preference for food that’s good for you. “Learn to like it,” he said.

“Your habits make you what you are,” he said. “Exercise is king; nutrition is queen. Together, you have a kingdom.”

LaLanne encourages you to reserve a few minutes each day for yourself. “You can be better,” he said. “Never be satisfi ed. Anything in life is possible, and YOU can make it happen!”

Western Reserve Masonic Community President Jay Dettorre spends a moment with fi tness legend and Mason Jack LaLanne at the recent Masonic Homes Executives Association of North America Conference in Pasadena, Calif. in June.

Scouting Award Goes to 98-year-old Galion MasonRalph Cobey, 98 years old and a Mason for 75 years, has been presented the Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award for his involvement with Scouting since 1920.

The award goes to Master Masons, who have “displayed outstanding dedication to the Scouting program.”

A member of Galion Lodge #414, Brother Cobey received the award in his home in a ceremony surrounded by Scouts, Scout leaders, and his Masonic brethren.


Every November and December, around the Grand Lodge of Ohio, much activity is devoted to preparing Lodge Offi cers from their upcoming year’s responsibilities.

In each of the 25 Districts in Ohio, a Past Master’s Convocation is convened by the District Deputy

Lodge Offi cers Busy Around State Each Year

Masters-Elect of the Magnifi cent 12th Masonic District await presentation of the Past Master’s Degree, at Middleport #363.

Grand Masters. Information from the Grand Master is communicated and the Past Master’s Degree is conferred on all incoming Worshipful Masters.

In the 12th Masonic District (Jackson, Gallia, Meigs, and Lawrence counties) this year

at Middleport Lodge #363, the incoming Worshipful Master are seated, prepared for the activities.

Senior Wardens should plan for the requirement to attend the Convocation in their district next year, prior to presiding over their Lodges.

Harry D. Wise received a pin and certifi cate recognizing his 70 years as a Mason in William McKinley Lodge #431. James F. Easterling, Jr., Grand Marshal of the Grand Lodge, made the presentation. Three District Deputy Grand Masters from the 21st District and Lodge representatives attended the event. In the picture, from left, are James Fidler, DDGM; Richard Salkeld, Master of McKinley Lodge; Frank Sekeres, DDGM; Fred Hocking, Lodge Secretary; Brother Wise; Larry Sears, DDGM; and Right Worshipful Brother Easterling.

70-Year Pin To William McKinley Lodge Member

Mark Your Calendar Ohio Masonic Home Announces Key DatesKey events for The Ohio Masonic Home’s subsidiary and affi liated corporations are as follows:

• May 4 – District Barbecue at Browning Masonic Community

• July 26 – Browning Masonic Community Cruise-In, Waterville

• Sept. 7 – Ohio Masonic Home Day

• Sept. 15/16 – Jim Perry Legends Golf Classic, Fairborn

• Oct. 4/5 – Western Reserve Masonic Community Renaissance Faire

Ohio Masonic Home Day in Springfi eld on Sept. 7 will be the culminating event celebrating the Bicentennial of Ohio Freemasonry. Time capsules from each Masonic District will be deposited in a special new memorial location.


Daniel F. Iceman, who served as Grand Master of Ohio, in 1978-79, was presented his 50-year membership award by Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett on Nov. 9 at Ebenezer Lodge, #33, in Wooster. A large turnout of Grand Lodge Offi cers, Past Grand Masters, family and Lodge members were in attendance. Those wearing the Grand Master/Past Grand Master aprons present are pictured. From left, are Thomas H. Galyen, PGM and Grand Treasurer; Thomas D. Zahler, PGM; Richard M. Wilson, PGM, Most Worshipful Brother Iceman and Most Worshipful Brother Winnett.

Past Grand Master Iceman Receives 50-Year Award

In the early 1980, the son of Brother Harvey A. Snider, of Cleveland, returned from college with signs of mental illness, and Brother Snider andhis family found few resources to help in this time of need.

So Brother Snider, a Mason for 45 years and a member of Forest City Lodge #388, dedicated himself to helping others in this same predicament.

He is currently President of Ohio’s National Alliance on Mental Illness, and has held numerous other community leadership positions in this fi eld. He has contributed 20 years of advocacy toward the Mental Health Parity Act with testimony before Ohio legislators. Ohio Representative Jon M. Peterson, a Mason in Hiram Lodge #18 in Delaware, sponsored the legislation.

Brother Snider said, “Understand that mental illness is not the fault of the individual. It is no one’s ‘fault.’ There are services out there today that can help encourage recovery and stability when it may otherwise seem hopeless.”

For more information, contact NAMI Ohio at www.namiohio.org or 866-924-1478.

Cleveland Area Mason Helps Mentally Ill

Harry E. Shaw and Earl W. Thompson were classmates in Logan High School many years ago. Late last year, they were together again, this time to receive 65-year pins from Mingo Lodge #171.

Seated in the picture are, from left, Brother Shaw, 86, and Brother Thompson, 87, who both still live in Logan, Ohio. Helping to make the presentation are, from left, John Hockingberry, Lodge Secretary; Ronald Cottrill, Gene Garren, and Donald R. Farrow.

High School Classmates, Together in Lodge 65 Years


The installation of Worshipful Brother Michael A. Cromer as Master of Huber Heights Lodge #777 sets a benchmark of six generations in the Cromer Family who have been affi liated with Ohio Freemasonry. Here is the family’s Masonic lineage:

Philip M. Cromer received his Masonic degrees in Pleasant Hill Lodge #361 in 1872-1873 and later was a charter member of Ansonia Lodge #488. Dr. Peyton Eli Cromer became a Master Mason in Pleasant Hill Lodge #361 in 1903. He later be-came a member of Piqua Lodge #24.

6th Generation Mason Installed as Huber Heights Master

Paul Eli Cromer received his Masonic degrees in Venus Lodge #152 in 1912 and 1913. He later affi liated with Stillwater Lodge #616. Peyton S. Cromer became a member of Stillwater Lodge #616 in 1944 and subsequently a member of Huber Heights Lodge.

Bill Charles Cromer received his Masonic degrees in Stillwater Lodge in 1973, and then affi liated as a Charter Member of Huber Heights Lodge #777. He served as Master in 1986 and 1999.

Michael Alan Cromer received his Masonic degrees in Huber

Heights Lodge in 1998-1999 and was installed as Worshipful Master on November 8, 2007.

Six generations in Masonry, while perhaps not any kind of a record, is certainly worthy of special recognition. If your family or another family you know can trace their Ohio Masonic Heritage back to 1808, contact us so we can print your lineage. Contact information is on page 2.

James Spruance Honored As Secretary of YearJames S. Spruance is presented the 2007 Secretary of the Year plaque by Grand Secretary George O. Braatz. Worshipful Brother Spruance served as Worshipful Master of University Lodge #631 in 1972 and then became Secretary. He retired twice from that position, but

returned to those duties when illness or death claimed another Secretary. He is a Past District Education Offi cer, a Mason for 56 years, 84 years old, and still serving, once again, as Secretary of University Lodge.

Ralph “PaPo” Parsons, born in 1916 in a farmhouse in southern Ohio, has been “clowning” around for 27 years with the Central Virginia Shrine Clowns. In 2006, he won a contest in Virginia Beach as Clown of the Year in the senior division, and has been a hard worker for the Shrine, bringing joy and laughter to thousands. He was recently featured in Kazimer, the publication of the Kazimer Shrine Temple in Roanoke, VA. Brother Parsons is a 70-year member of Victory Lodge #649 in Akron, Ohio. He petitioned Lodge at age 21, and was raised by his father, who was Worshipful Master at the time. At age 91, he continues his “clowning” around. Brother Parsons says that a good diet, a lot of exercise, and a good attitude have been the important characteristics of his long life.

Brother Parsons, right, receiving good wishes from his Shrine Potentate.

Ohio Mason Featured For Clown Work in Virginia

Abundant GiftsBy Right Worshipful Brother Timothy B. Strawn CAE, President, The OMH Benevolent Endowment Foundation

FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE

Gifts, of course, are not only our focus throughout the year but also a major topic of conversation dur-ing the holidays. While we realize you’re reading this sometime in January or February, it’s being writ-ten during the Christmas season and gifts are, even more than usual, ever present. The Ohio Masonic Home and Benevolent Endowment Foundation have again been blessed this year with wonderful gifts from many of you for which we are very grateful. I’d like to share three of our recent gifts with you.

We had the pleasure of working with a donor recently who was fa-miliar with The Home from having helped a friend move here and then visiting her over a number of years. She recently became responsible for administering a relative’s estate in another state. At about the time she began to work with an attorney regarding the estate, her husband, a Mason, received our appeal for Alzheimer’s care. Her knowledge of the very special care provided here, the appeal to support our wonder-ful Alzheimer’s care and an interest in making a positive, meaningful difference with a portion of her relative’s estate led to a signifi cant gift to the appeal. An interesting, gift-creating confl uence of circum-stances and a wonderful donor who brought them together for which we are very thankful.

We received a letter from a brother who lives out of state. He indicated, with a compliment of our care, that the gift he included was a memorial to his mother who lived here for a number of years nearly 30 years ago and passed away here. He also indicated that his gift was being made in lieu of Christmas

gifts to his children and grandchildren and that they had been informed of and unanimously supported the idea. A very thoughtful and unique way of making a tribute gift to a former resident for which we are also very thankful.

Following a farewell reception for one of our staff members recently, we returned to the Foundation of-fi ce in Bushnell Hall (the castle) to fi nd a group of about 12 students, their teacher and several parents from the school closest to our cam-pus in the lobby with a number of presents for two of our newest resi-dents. They sang several Christmas carols and surprised the residents with the gifts. Everyone watched as the residents tearfully and thank-fully opened the gifts and displayed

them for all to see. We were happy and honored to be able to express directly to the students our thank-fulness for their thoughtfulness and “spending” of their time as well as treasure (which they held fundrais-ers to create) to provide such gifts. A wonderful representation of what this entire season is about.

We are, and always have been, so abundantly blessed here on this beautiful campus with gifts of time and treasure from you and genera-tions of your families, lodges, breth-ren and friends. Know that as we enter the new year, we offer thanks for all these blessings and a prayer that you and yours will be similarly blessed in this year.


Mason Lodge #678 received publicity in the Cincinnati Enquirer for a new Lodge community program.

The newspaper reported, “Passing out 80 home computers were members of Mason Lodge #678 as part of a new program – ‘Computers for Kids’ – to aid school children in the Mason school system who can’t afford a personal computer at home.”

The used computers and other equipment were donated to the Lodge by area businesses. Michael E. Mullinger, Junior Deacon of the Lodge, who has a child in the school district and enjoys the ability

to check in on his child’s progress online, enlisted the help of his Lodge members.

Working closely with the school district and area businesses, the Masons gathered and refurbished the computers, with all labor provided by Lodge members.

Brother Mullinger, who has only been a Mason for about a year, has already discovered how Freemasonry, with many members working together, can accomplish more than individuals by themselves.

He said the program will continue into 2008.

Mason Lodge Donates Computers to School Children

Springfi eld area students presented gifts at the holidays to new Springfi eld Masonic Community residents George and Jan Evers.


Thank You For Your GenerosityWe offer our grateful appreciation to the estates, individuals, groups, or other Masonic bodies who have supported The Ohio Masonic Home with gifts given between November 1 and December 31, 2007.

$10,000 +Blankenship, CatherineBrister, C. E.Grand Lodge of Ohio, F&AMKarth, Charles E. & MarjorieSiekeres, Julius M.Spires, Garrell C. & KaySturdivant, WebsterWeaver, Jon & Janet

$5,000 - $9,999 Grand Chapter of Ohio, RAMMiles, Louise C.Parkey, LoraineSheeler, Howard M.Valley of Dayton, AASR

$2,500 - $4,999 Howell, John W., Jr.Oberle, BettySchulze, Vivian H.

$1,000 - $2,499 Baist, George H. & DorothyBaker, Dale L. & PaulineCentral States Craftsmen’s Bowling AssociationCone, GraceCyrus, George H.Davis, Orlando W.Davisson, Martha R.De Vore, RobertGrand Council of Ohio, R&SMHosler, Bessie V.Mantua Lodge #533, F&AMMayberry, William P., Sr. & DeloresNational Lodge #568, F&AMParker, James B., IVRussell, Michael H. & LoisStahlman, George

$500 - $999Arabic Club FoundationBerry, William M. & DeloresBolivar Lodge #82, F&AMCapital City Lodge # 656, F&AMCopper Penny Lodge #778, F&AMCoventry-Akron Lodge #83, F&AMEdwin S. Griffi ths Lodge #749,

F&AM

Franklin Lodge #14, F&AMGarrett Wykoff Lodge #585,

F&AMIsreal, RickJohn W. Barkley Lodge #621,

F&AMJohnson, Owen E., M.D. & JoyceKelly, FloydNew Harmony Lodge #435,

F&AMNorth Bend Lodge #346, F&AMNorwood Winton Carthage Lodge

#576, F&AMPrince, Thomas P.Queen City Lodge #559, F&AMShadyside Lodge #724, F&AMSharonville Lodge #204, F&AMShrive, Harold GeorgeVernon, Carl W. & Joyce in

Memory of Rex and Caroline Vernon

Yellow Springs Lodge #421, F&AM

$100 - $499Barry, Ross L.Beeson, Robert J.Benjamin Franklin Lodge #719,

F&AMBlack River Lodge #786, F&AMBrown, Gordon P.Caplinger, J. RodgerCarson, Terry M.Clinton Lodge #47, F&AMCollinwood Lodge #582, F&AMConkle, Ray E.Coolville Lodge #337, F&AMCox, Nelson L.Crabtree, Andrew J.Creps, Michael R.Crouch, ClarenceCrusader Lodge #720, F&AMCubbison, Robert W.De Vries, Edythe H.DeVassie, Terry L.Deyo, Jim S. & MargieDill, Wayne S. & KayDingle, Laurence J. & JanetDover Lodge #489, F&AMDueease, Robert A.Duncan, Toni & Steven

Felicity Lodge #102, F&AMFirelands Shrine ClubFirst Masonic District Offi cers

AssociationFouch, Edward L. & CarolGarrettsville Lodge #246, F&AMGist, RonaldGrove, Harold J. & ElizabethHamre, Gary L.Hanna, Jay S.Harkins, Daniel C.Hebron Lodge #116, F&AMHerwick, John F. In Memory of

Boyd and Ruth HerwickHolcomb, J. Robert & AntoinetteHolmes, Jan R.Hood, WalterHummer, MarkJames, Richard, Jr. & MarjorieJones, Donald S. & JanetKarr, Thomas W. & DianaKlimas, Edmund L.Kuss, Richard L.Lathrop Lodge #676, F&AMLattanner, C. Rolland & JoyLewandowski, ThomasLiberty Center Lodge #518,

F&AMLima Lodge #205, F&AMMazza, Domenic MichaelMcCloud, Gordon M.McElroy, Jerry L.McGowan, Arno R.McMillan Lodge #141, F&AMMergler, H. W.Middleport Lodge #363, F&AMMingo Lodge #171, F&AMMinton, A. W.Myers, Robert L.National City Mortgage Mideast

Region of ROCNeeper, Jeffrey R.Nevada Lodge #343, F&AMNichols, Junior A., U.S.A.F., Ret.

& UrsalineOlivet Chapter #538, OESO’Neal, John W., Jr. & BettyOrphans’ Friend Lodge #275,

F&AMOxford Lodge #67, F&AMParkside Lodge #736, F&AM

Parsons, James S.Pfeifer, Carl E. & NormaRobertson, PeterRosebrock, JohnRuff, Charles Luster, Jr.Sackett, Floris A.Sager Lodge #513, F&AMScenters, James W., Jr. &

BarbaraSchuld, Joseph F.Schutz, BillScott, John E.Seanor, Rex C.Sentz, John A., Jr.Shank, Harold & JosephineShaw, Charles W.Shelby Lodge #350, F&AMSherwood Lodge #620, F&AMShomper, Matthew R. & BarbaraStands, Robert D.Stauffer, James W.Stewart, Joseph S., II & KarenStonebraker, Carl E.Strawn, Timothy B. & LoisSuperior Lodge #179, F&AMSwanton Lodge #555, F&AMThe Order of the Red Cross of

ConstantineToledo Ft. Industry Lodge #144,

F&AMTwin Valley Chapter #240, RAMUnitrans Company in Honor of

Elbridge BrewerVerbsky, Arriton L.Waltz, Jeffrey P.Washington Lodge #17, F&AMWestern Hills - Cheviot Lodge

#140, F&AMWeyer Lodge #541, F&AMWhiston, HowardWilliam McKinley Lodge #431,

F&AMWilliamson, Gregory A. &

DeborahWolf, BeulahWyoming Lodge #186, F&AMYanda, Eugene F.Yeatman-Mt. Washington Lodge

#162, F&AM

Cleve Cornelison Inducted into Veterans Hall of Fame

Governor Ted Strickland in November inducted Brother Cleve Cornelison, Jr., a World War II Navy veteran, into the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame.

The recipient is a 50-year member of NC Harmony Lodge #2 in Cincinnati, and has served as Lodge Secretary.

Brother Cornelison, now 87 years old, established an enduring trust

to assist post-graduate students with fi nancial assistance and has awarded 25 scholarships to date.

He is an active volunteer with the American Heart Association, Jewish Hospital, the Gospel City Mission, Hospice of Cincinnati, and Bethesda North.

He has been described as “the epitome of a patriot and charitable American, who has

contributed his time, expertise, and money to the benefi t of so many fellow countrymen.”

The Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame was established in 1992 to recognize Ohio veterans with honorable military service who have gone on to make signifi cant contributions to their communities.

2655 W. National RoadSpringfi eld, Ohio 45504-3698Web site: www.ohiomasonichome.orgWeb site: www.freemason.com

January/February 2008 • VOLUME 15, ISSUE 1

Changing with the TimesIllustrious Brother Jim S. Deyo, 33˚

Deyo has come a long way. He was raised by his grandparents. He credits the Masonic fraternity for his success. “Freemasonry has inspired me,” he said.

Jim joined Mt. Sterling Lodge #269 in 1961 and quickly progressed through the offi cer line. He soon became a District Offi cer and then a District Deputy Grand Master of the Ninth District. He served for many years as Grand Treasurer and, ultimately, in 2005, as Grand Master of Ohio Freemasons.

He has also been very active in Scottish Rite. He is a Past Sovereign Prince of Franklin Council, Princes of Jerusalem in the Valley of Co-lumbus. Coroneted a 33˚ Mason in 1986, he became an Active Member of the Scottish Rite Supreme Council in 1997 and served for a number of years as Grand Marshal General. He has also been active in the committee work of Supreme Council and cur-rently serves as Chairman of its In-vestment Committee. In August 2006, Illustrious Brother Deyo was elected Grand Lieutenant Commander, the second in command, of our 15-state Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. “In 47 years of Freemasonry, I have held an offi ce for 46 of those years,” he said.

Jim said the friendships he has made have been the most rewarding aspect of his involvement. “I’ve met wonderful people from all over the world,” he said.

Among his credits is serving on the Board of Trustees of The Ohio Masonic Home, fi rst from 1990 to 1999 and again from 2006 to present. “With technology and the growth of in-home services, The Ohio Masonic Home has the ability to keep people in their residences, if that’s what they want. We can also provide special attention in our facilities when they need and want it.”

Jim encourages the Brethren to support The Ohio Masonic Home and its residents. “We have members who could really benefi t from living in our retirement communities,” he said. “Lodges should make it a point to visit their members and their spouses who are living in them. It means a lot to the residents.”

In the end, Jim feels the business orientation of The Ohio Masonic Home and its Board of Trustees will allow it to continue and prosper. “We need to take advantage of our talents,” he said. “We’re changing with the times.”

Illustrious Brother Jim S. Deyo, 33˚, is passionate about his collection of 12 cars and tractors. His inventory includes a 1948 Cub Tractor, a

1952 Ford pick-up truck, a 1977 Lincoln Mark V, and a 1988 Pontiac Fiero – the last model made. “I have diffi culty getting rid of vehicles,” Jim said. In fact, Jim has performed all the maintenance work on his vehicle fl eet. “I like to work on things,” he said.

His other passions include playing golf and following Ohio State University football. He has been an OSU football season ticket-holder for nearly 30 years. He is typically accompanied to the games by his wife, Margie, a converted Washington Redskins fan. Jim’s favorite OSU football memory is the Buckeyes’ 1969 showdown with Purdue. “Ohio State’s Jack Tatum was on the back of Purdue Quarterback Mike Phipps the entire game,” Jim said. “It was cold. But that stadium was rocking!”

In This Issue …Making Life Easier.................................Page 1Rufus Putnam Award.............................Page 4Improvement Projects at Browning.........Page 7Grand Lodge Bicentennial..................Page 8-9

BEACONA JOINT PUBLICATION OF THE GRAND LODGE OF OHIO AND THE OHIO MASONIC HOME

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