Beacon_JanFeb09

BEACONJanuary/February 2009 VOLUME 16, ISSUE 1

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

On Saturday, March 21, every Masonic Lodge in the state of Ohio will open its doors for a public open house.

The Masonic Lodge can often be one of the prominent buildings in many Ohio communities. However in some cases, the public has rarely had the opportunity to step inside. That is about to change.

“It’s time for the public to have a chance to see what’s behind those closed doors and to experience some of the genuine fellowship Masons share,” says Charles R. Murphy, Grand Master of Ohio Masons. “Also, it’s a great opportunity to introduce a prospective member to the fraternity.”

Continued on page 3

Each local Lodge will set its own agenda and schedule for March 21. The Grand Master has simply asked each to participate.

Multiple Lodges meeting in one building may hold a joint open house. Lodges are also encouraged to work with the appendant organizations meeting in their buildings to give the public a glimpse of the whole Masonic family, including women’s and youth organizations.

“Every Lodge has some house-keeping issues, too which they need to attend, “ says Murphy. “However, I think the renewed relationship with the community will make all the work well worth it.”

Statewide Open House Planned for All Masonic Lodges on March 21

Brothers wishing to volunteer to help at the open house should contact their Lodge’s Secretary or Master as soon as possible.

A Grand Master’s (one-day) Class will be held in each of Ohio’s 25 Masonic Districts on Saturday, June 13, Most Worshipful Brother Charles R. Murphy has announced.

The Grand Master’s Class is a good way for a Lodge to finish up candidates who have been stalled in their progress through the degrees. It is also a good opportunity for relatives to be able to share the experience of a member of the family joining the

fraternity on one day, or for those potential candidates who have time-constraint problems that have kept them from joining in the past.

Only the three Symbolic Lodge degrees will be conferred on that Saturday in order to allow each Lodge enough time to host a meal with their new members and their families.

“By having a dinner after the degree work, our new

members will have a chance to enjoy two important aspects of our Fraternity, ritual and fellowship,” says Murphy.

He has appointed Right Worshipful Brother Steven L. Smiseck, a Past District Deputy Grand Master in the 14th Masonic District, as the Grand Lodge chairman of the event.

As part of his program this year, Most Worshipful Brother Murphy has sent a letter to

Grand Master’s (One-Day) Class Set for June 13

Grand Master Issues Challenge to Ohio Masons to ‘Reach’By Charles R. Murphy, Grand Master

Always, all ways, reach for excellence.

By now, most Brethren know that REACH is our mantra this year. Whatever you do, reach, and your effort inevitably will result in improvement. To this end, the REACH for Lodge Excellence award will be presented at the Grand Lodge Session in October.

This will be awarded to only one Lodge in the State of Ohio, and will represent the Lodge that reaches above all others in the State for excellence in every one of its endeavors.

Traditionally in Ohio, the advent of the New Year brings with it the beginning of Inspection Season in our Masonic Lodges. This affords us a tremendous opportunity to reach out to other Brethren and to other Lodges.

During the winter season, we often encounter unpredictable weather conditions. By comparison, this affords us the ability to

appreciate the certainty of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth within our Lodges. While the weather outside may be cold, we have the unique opportunity to experience the warmth of our fraternal bonds of Freemasonry.

To mark the offi cial beginning of our third Century of Freemasonry here in Ohio, let us use this Inspection season to reach out to other Brethren and to other Lodges. Please join me in traveling to experience the Brotherhood and fraternal bonds that only Freemasonry can provide.

You may need to don your parkas, mukluks and snowshoes to travel, but I assure you that once you arrive at the Masonic Lodge, the warmth and friendship you encounter will provide a worthwhile contrast.

At fi rst you may be doing this to help your Lodge in its quest for the REACH Award, but after you arrive, you’ll never regret the time you spent with your Brethren.

Another way to reach for excel-lence is to make your upcoming Open House on March 21 the best Lodge event of the year. Involve the other Masonic Bodies in prepar-

2 January/February 2009

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.

Brett Turner, Manager 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 43085-0629614/[email protected]

ing for this event, and ask them to help in making it an unqualifi ed success.

This is a great way to reach out to the other Masonic bodies as well as to the public. When we put our best foot forward with each other, we will exhibit the best of our Fraternity to others.

The bottom line is that whatever our endeavor, we need to continue to reach for excellence. Although the motivation initially might be the REACH Award, the real reward will be the resultant excellence which will far outpace the effort.

Brethren, let’s use the occasion of the dawn of our third century to celebrate the one thing we can count on – the warmth of our Fraternity. When we celebrate Freemasonry and all it has to offer, we’ll exhibit the true reason Freemasonry takes good men and makes them better men.

May the Supreme Architect of the Universe bless you and your families throughout this New Year, and continue to guide, counsel and provide for each and every one of you for many years to come.

The sale of a special Grand Lodge Bicentennial basket from Longaberger® proved very benefi cial to the Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation.

James Oughterson, a Past Master of Bloomingburg Lodge #449, organized the entire effort, and hundreds of the “TV Time” baskets with specially engraved wood lids were sold last year.

Worshipful Brother Oughterson presented a check to the Charitable Foundation for $11,686.30, representing all the profi ts from the project.

Basket Sale Yields Extra DollarsFor Charitable Foundation

January/February 2009 3

The Value of Freemasonry Pays in Many WaysBy Worshipful Brother Wm. David Bannerman, Chief Executive Officer, The Ohio Masonic Home

What is your membership worth? Are you getting value for what you put into Freemasonry? Answers to those questions can be answered in several ways. From the perspective of The Ohio Masonic Home, we provide you with great value.

When a candidate pays his initiation fees to join a lodge, the first $20 is donated to The Ohio Masonic Home Endowment Foundation. Those funds are invested for future needs.

Every year, when you pay your lodge dues, $2.20 of those dues are paid as a per capita from the Grand Lodge portion to The Ohio Masonic Home. The per capita to us has remained the same for years. The Grand Chapter, Grand Council and Grand Commandery have also provided us with some funds each year from their membership dues. Together they amount to thousands of dollars to support our services. Added with the extra donations we solicit, and funds from wills and estates, they add up to over $3 million a year.

We add to the donations through grants, government support through Medicaid and Medicare and resident and client fees. Together the combined total allows us to serve Masons and the general public across Ohio. Masons

who need financial assistance when using our services are the beneficiaries of your generosity.

You get a lot for your investment. Retirement Communities, Care Coordinators for your county, and chore and personal care services. The per capita does not cover everything, so you pay as you go. But your continued membership means we will be there for you and your wife or widow.

What can you get for $2? A lot. Two cheeseburgers, or french fries and a drink, if you like fast food. Maybe two hot dogs at the local gas mart.

So what does $2 in Masonry get? The best value in Ohio. More than cheeseburgers or fries and a drink. You get access to all of the services of The Ohio Masonic Home. You pay what you can, but if you need financial support to use our services, we see that you are served. Skilled nursing, assisted living, apartments, or homes in our retirement communities. Care Coordinators to help you and your loved ones find and access the services they need in your own local area. Help through Masonic Helping Hands in Dayton, Cincinnati and Toledo with light housekeeping, a bath or running errands.

Can you get them somewhere else? Maybe, but not through an organization with fraternal bonds, with our values and our support. Your per capita plus all of the donations funds about 8% of our service costs. We collect fees from residents and clients and add investment income and support from our foundation. Your support gets exploded into $43 million. Keep paying your dues. Send a little more if you can. We provide great value for your support.

That’s a bargain.

every Ohio Mason with two Lodge petitions. These petitions can be used at any time. If they are used for the Grand Master’s class, they need to be turned into the Lodge by the first of April.

In addition to the apron and Bible or holy book provided to

each candidate by his Lodge, the Grand Lodge will also present each candidate with a special edition of S. Brent Morris’ book, A New Member’s Guide to Freemasonry.

Each candidate will have his own mentor, who will assist him through the ceremonies that day. Mentors

will receive their ritual instructions at the Class, so no member should hesitate to serve as a mentor for his candidate.

General information and local details for each district will be provided by the District Deputy Grand Masters.

Grand Master’s (One-Day) Class for June 13 continued from page 1

Ohio Masonic Home CEO Dave Bannerman accepts an award from Western Reserve Masonic Community President Jay Dettorre at the 2008 Masonic Executives Conference.


Travel Clubs sponsored by Browning Masonic Community, Western Reserve Masonic Community and Springfield Masonic Community offer adventure, camaraderie and a chance to understand the sponsoring community better.

These one-day bus trips around Ohio or to neighboring states, offered at various times throughout the year, open up a variety of opportunities. The Browning Travel Club recently took a longer trip from its home in Waterville to The National Museum of the United States Air Force at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton. Rainy weather didn’t dampen the enthusiasm to discover aviation history.

The first stop was the Wright-Patterson Club and Banquet Center, where the group enjoyed a tasty lunch with a festive holiday atmosphere. From there, the group got a brief tour of part of the base. This included the historic Huffman Prairie, where the Wright Brothers made their first flight experiments, the Arnold House, Air Force

Travel Clubs Offer Adventure

Materiel Command Headquarters and other sights.

The highlight of the day was the visit to The National Museum of The United States Air Force. The museum offers numerous activities. Attendees could see a movie on the giant IMAX screen, walk through aviation history to view early flight, World War II and Korean War planes and memorabilia, modern aircraft, retired Air Force One planes and modern aviation along with other exhibits. The trip allowed a number of the Travel Club visitors who were veterans to see the aircraft they used during their time of service.

Previous Browning Travel Club trips have included Put-in Bay on Lake Erie and The Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The travelers have also seen a number of theatre productions and seasonal points of interest.

Trips allow the traveler to relax and get to know their fellow explorers. There is no fee to join the club. The price of each trip varies, but is designed to be affordable.

It’s perfect for people with a sense of adventure, a need to travel, and a desire to make new friends. If you don’t have a traveling companion for an excursion that interests you, don’t worry, people are friendly and you won’t wander alone on these trips.

2009 will feature a number of great destinations, such as a tour of the Indiana Amish Country, a visit to Akron’s wineries and Barberton Mum Festival, and the introduction of an overnight trip that will feature the Dickensian Christmas Village.

Western Reserve’s Travel Club has taken off for monthly excursions to various places from Michigan casinos to Christmas trips. Western Reserve has also expanded to include a theater club, which takes in a diverse schedule that includes musicals, comedies and traditional shows such as The Nutcracker.

Springfield Masonic Community is in the process of launching its travel club in 2009.

For more information regarding Browning Masonic Community, call 1-866-878-4055 or visit www.ohiomasonichome.org.

The National Museum of the United States Air Force is located at Wright Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, Ohio.

Trips like the one to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base allow travel club patrons to discover something from their past or something new.


Disabled Adults May Benefit From Helping Hands One of the great advantages of the Masonic Helping Hands program is its versatility. Not only does it aid seniors with non-medical, in-home help such as companionship, light housekeeping, laundry, personal care and transportation, it offers aid for disabled adults.

The Cincinnati Helping Hands office recently helped one woman recover in more ways than one after surgery.

Janet Hibbard has endured a number of health issues over the last decade. Last March, she was diagnosed with cancer, was in need of a liver transplant, and needed help with convalescence if a donor match came up. She contacted Medicare, which gave her a list of agencies, but none were able to help with the non-medical, home care she needed. One agency referred Janet to Masonic Helping Hands.

With all the runaround she’d gotten before, Janet wasn’t hopeful at first. The Cincinnati office Assistant Manager, Toni Mann, offered to help and found an anonymous donor through the Cancer Society willing to cover six weeks of her care.

“I know that if I had not had the help of Masonic Helping Hands I would still be on a waiting list,” said Janet.

A donor was found quickly and the Masonic Helping Hands Manager and Nurse were at the hospital the day of Janet’s surgery. Kathleen Plant was Janet’s Companion provided by Masonic Helping Hands and she picked Janet up and took her home from the hospital.

“I am thankful for Kathleen’s help, I don’t know what I would have done without her,” said Janet.

Kathleen helped Janet through some tough times, calming her fears

during an anxiety attack, getting her to relax and sleep following surgery. She also helped maintain Janet’s household by cleaning and making sure there was plenty of food in the house.

Kathleen helped plan a daily schedule, kept Janet on the diet suggested for recovery, and attended to her other convalescent needs. She escorted Janet to her doctor follow-up visits and also helped by staying confident and positive in her recovery.

Although Janet still has some health issues and needs more treatment in the future, she’s gained confidence because someone was there for her.

“Kathleen and Helping Hands have helped me feel more confident and positive about my healing and getting my life back. I am beginning to think about doing things I have not done in a long time. If not for this help, I would have been back in the emergency room in the first three weeks after my surgery.

“I am grateful for this help and getting a second chance to live my life.” Masonic Helping Hands also has offices serving the greater Toledo and Dayton/Springfield areas.

For more information on Masonic Helping Hands, contact Natalie McDonald at 937/207-5039 or go to www.ohiomasonichome.org.

The Grand Lodge has invested in a public relations program including six large billboards around the state, helping to promote the fraternity and direct persons to the Grand Lodge website.

The advertising is located on major traffic routes near metropolitan areas in the state to receive the most public exposure. Those areas are Cincinnati, Dayton, Canton/Akron, Cleveland, Columbus, and Toledo.

The program is similar to successful billboard promotion projects conducted in other Grand Lodge Jurisdictions around the country.

Billboard Program Launched in Ohio

Masonic Charity at its Best During the 2008 Holiday SeasonDuring the 2008 Holiday Season


Most Worshipful Sir,

I am writing to you tonight after the conclusion of a fantastic “Reach” event at Medina Lodge #58.

About a month ago I wanted to do something in our Lodge for Christmas, but I didn’t know what. A

couple days later I received a letter at the lodge addressed to “Medina Temple.” It told about a young

woman in our community who had been recently divorced from an abusive man. This woman has two

children living with her, a daughter, 14, and a son, 13. She also has an 18-year old daughter with

Cerebral Palsy. This daughter lives with her grandmother and grandfather, who took early retirement to

provide the care she needs. As I read, it became clear that this was the opportunity I was looking for to

bring our Masonic family together.

I investigated this woman’s situation by visiting her employer and her apartment manager. Indeed, this

woman was genuine and everyone I talked to told me she never complains and would give you her last

fi ve dollars if you needed it. I learned that she was receiving food stamps, but after she got a $.50/hour

raise at work, the increase caused her to lose her food stamps. I also learned that while she has a car, she

often walks, because she can’t afford the gas. In addition, her car is in need of new tires. Finally, I learned

that she has several family members within our Masonic family, both Masons and Eastern Stars.

That was all I needed to “Reach.” I set a date for a pot-luck dinner, which was tonight. I reported my plan

to our local Western Reserve High Twelve Club, where I received the fi rst donation. I then made my report

to our Eastern Star Chapter, who was also ready to help. While reporting to the Stars, WB Jim Himelright

also offered to put this family on the food basket list for the Valley of Akron, Scottish Rite, and she received

her basket this past Sunday. I reported to both our DeMolay Chapter, who “adopted” the son, Daniel, and

to our Rainbow Assembly who “adopted” the daughters Kali and Elizabeth. Finally I made my report in

Lodge. Their support was overwhelming. We collected a sunshine gift of nearly $250, to which the Lodge

added the difference to make it a $500 donation for this family’s rent.

Next, I visited this woman’s employer, Maibach’s Furniture. They were all to eager to participate and

several employees joined us for our dinner. In addition, they donated a $100 gift card for groceries. My

next stop was to an old friend whose family owns North Gateway Tire. After I showed him the letter about

this woman, he handed me one of his business cards and said, “Just have her call me and we’ll put a new

set of tires on her car.” Next, after talking to my son (and DeMolay) Sean, he donated his old BMX bike for

the young man. I took his old bike to Century Cycles where I met a brother from Wadsworth Lodge who

helped me by having the owners refurbish this bike at no cost. My fi nal stop was to the manager of our

local movie theater. Once again our community stepped up and donated movie passes for the family.

The “Reaching” and “Giving It Away” had truly become infectious. By the time dinner was served, we

had received more gifts from brothers and sisters of the lodge and stars as well as gifts from the Rainbow

and DeMolay. After all was said and done we had raised over $2,000 in gifts. Our dinner was fantastic

and brought together more than 50 members and families to celebrate this charity. And the best part

was that we were able to keep it a secret from the family who had no idea why they were there until the

presentations were made.

As one fi nal thought, one of the extended family members was moved to petition our lodge tonight

because of our charity. The 13-year-old son, Daniel, is petitioning DeMolay, and Kali, the 14-year-old

daughter is going to petition Rainbow. To seal the deal, we ended the night with a fabulous rendition of

Jingle Bells led by 18-year-old Elizabeth, who didn’t let her illness keep her from getting the fi nal word at

the end of the song as she shouted “… in a one-horse open sleigh…HEY!”

Most Worshipful, thank you for the inspiration.

Douglas Shuler, WM

Medina Lodge # 58

The following letter was received just before Christmas by the Grand Master:


A Soothing Experience for the Senses

One of Western Reserve Masonic Community in Medina’s biggest success stories of 2008 has been its Resident Wellness Program. Introduced in March, it has helped expand residents’ interest in health issues and awareness of how to live a healthier lifestyle.

Resident Wellness Coordinator Renee’ Ashby responded with the program when the residents expressed an interest in such issues. The program was designed to assist Western Reserve residents by answering their health questions, offering referrals for resources in the Medina area, quarterly educational seminars and informational newsletters. This would include on-going services for residents such as lab and blood work to be done right in their apartment or villa home. And Renee’ being on sight to answer questions or do assessments was another plus.

Educational session topics have included Depression in the Elderly, physical wellness, immunizations, getting through the holidays and maintaining brain health.

The successful reception has encouraged Renee’ to open the programs include speakers and health experts from the community and to the general public.

Western Reserve Masonic Community has long been involved in the Medina community with events such as the Medina Art League Show, the local SeniorNet program, its annual Renaissance Faire and other activities. The wellness program seemed like a natural addition.

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

Wellness Program Draws Healthy InterestGiven the uncertainty Alzheimer’s

disease and dementia bring, having options at every turn helps. Springfi eld Masonic Community’s Pathways Center for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Related Care added a new area in 2008 to help its patients during times of need.

The Sensory Room combines sights, sounds, touch and even scents aimed at giving residents a relaxing experience

Pathways clinical manager Dawn Suchland heard about the benefi ts of sensory rooms from educational trainings and industry magazines. An unused room was soon turned into Pathways’ Sensory Room.

The Sensory Room features several things to aid a resident who may become anxious. They can sit on soft chairs and couches and experience various colorful lights, soothing music, pleasing aromas, all under the supervision of a staff member. There are even objects residents can hold in their hands.

“Each individual resident has one

piece that calms them down, they all respond differently,” said Dawn.

The results have been good, and now there are plans for adding new features to the room. Funds raised from the annual Jim Perry Legends Golf Classic benefi t Pathways, and Sensory Room improvements are one of the areas staff hopes to upgrade.

They are looking at purchasing an antigravity chair, designed to comfort and relax a person; multicolored curtains; a weighted blanket that helps a person feel secure; other lights and sound equipment.

There are four villages in Pathways and Dawn said there are plans to add another Sensory Room so that neighboring villages can share the two rooms.

“This is just the beginning,” said Dawn. “This is based on what the residents need.”

For more information on Springfi eld Masonic Community, call 937/525-3007 or 1-888/290-2664 or go to www.ohiomasonichome.org.

Myrtle Gose, a 53-year Eastern Star member and a resident at the Pathways Center for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Related Care at Springfi eld Masonic Community, experiences the comforts of the Sensory Room with help from nurse Fanta Avery.


75, 80-Year Awards Presented To Long-time Ohio Masons

During the last two months of 2008, numerous senior awards were presented by the Grand Master and his proxies to long-time Ohio Masons.

In fact, during that period, four 80-year awards were given out to brethren, who, of course, were all more than 100 years in age. These brethren received a beautiful clock, engraved with their name and the fact that they are 80-year members, plus a certifi cate.

Several 75-year awards were also presented. These recipients this year received a special plaque, certifi cate, and lapel pin.

A picture album of some of these presentations appears on these pages.

Bernard B. Blattner, center, displays the certifi cate he received for his 80 years of membership in Lima Lodge #205. Helping in the presentation are, from left, Gary E. Igo, Sr., Master of Lima Lodge; Robert C. Rill, Junior Grand Deacon of the Grand Lodge; Gary L. McElfresh, Grand Chaplain; Charles R. Murphy, Grand Master, and Timothy L. Jolliff, Grand Tyler. Brother Blattner is 101 years old.

Raymond T. Noss, 101, cradles his engraved clock and enjoys the applause he is receiving, led by Grand Master Charles R. Murphy, right. His wife is at the left. Brother Noss is an 80-year member of Fairfi eld Lodge #261.

Vernon L. Diefenbacher receives his engraved clock, representing 80 years of membership, from Grand Master Charles R. Murphy. At 101, he is an 80-year member of Hugh L. Bates Lodge #686, in Hamilton.

Marion T. Brant is congratulated by Grand Master Charles R. Murphy for 80 years of membership in Lebanon Lodge #26. He is 101 years old.

Harry A. Hope, center, a member of Paramuthia Lodge #25 in Athens, receives his 75-year recognition from Michael Wootton, Worshipful Master, left, and Past Grand Master Douglas O. Brenneman. Worshipful Brother Hope is 96 years old and the oldest living Past Master of Paramuthia Lodge.

received a special plaque, certifi cate, and lapel pin.received a special plaque, certifi cate, and lapel pin.A picture album of some of these presentations appears on these pages.A picture album of some of these presentations appears on these pages.

David McAfee received his 75-year Award from the Grand Lodge in his home in Logan. At age 99, he is a Past Master of the former Zaleski Lodge #472, which merged with Delta Lodge #207.


Worshipful Brother John T. Reid, right, is presented his 75-year award by Right Worshipful Brother Robert C. Hager, District Deputy Grand Master, as Right Worshipful Brother Bradford A. Goebel, Senior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge, observes. The recipient is a member of Collinwood Lodge #582 and is 99 years old.

Worshipful Brother Charles (Al) Perry, who served as Master of Gerard Lodge in 1935, has been presented his 75-year member award. The presentation included, from left, Gerard Lodge Worshipful Master-elect Todd Dupuis, Don Perry, of Melrose Lodge, Worshipful Brother Perry, Sharon Perry, 50-year award recipient John Carpenter, and Worshipful Master Charles Short.

Judge Joe M. Moorhead receives his 75-year pin from his nephew, Brother Reed Moorhead. Judge Moorhead, a distinguished attorney for more than 60 years in Findlay, served as Hancock County Common Pleas Judge for 23 years and as a Probate Judge for three years. In 2005, he was given the Community Service Award by Grand Master James M. Williamson. He is 100 years old and a member of Findlay Lodge #227.

Rex C. Seanor, seated, received his 75-year award at the age of 100, on behalf of Caldwell Lodge #330 from a delegation of Masons. From left, are James F. Easterling, Jr., Grand Orator of the Grand Lodge; R. Wesley Webber, Jr., Dewey Jenkins, James R. Yocum, and W. Larry Sears, all District Deputy Grand Masters

(DDGM) in the 21st Masonic District; Worshipful Master Joe Rivera; and William E. Turner, DDGM.


A smiling group of Grand Lodge Officers, Gibsonburg Lodge members, and representatives from the 11th Masonic District gathered on December 13 in the new Lodge facilities of Gibsonburg Lodge #575 for a dedication ceremony, conducted by Grand Master Charles R. Murphy. Much of the remodeling and painting of the new facility was done by Lodge members.

Benjamin Croson, wearing his Worshipful Master’s apron and jewel, is a fourth generation member of Mechanicsburg #113. His father, Randy Croson, right, and his grandfather, William Runyan, second from left, also served as Worshipful Master of the Lodge. At left is Worshipful Brother Alfred T. Johnson, who over the years installed all three of these family members as Master of the Lodge.

New Masonic Lodge Room Dedicated in Gibsonburg

Fourth-Generation Member Installed Worshipful Master

On November 20, in Harry S. Johnson Lodge #641, two Master Mason Degrees were planned by Worshipful Master Steve Croucher. As the first degree came near its conclusion, Worshipful Brother Croucher stepped aside and permitted Worshipful Brother Henry Long, who served as Master in 1965, to step in and raise his son, Richard Long. Then during the second Master Mason Degree of the evening, the Worshipful Master again stepped aside and this time allowed the new Master Mason Richard Long to step in and assist in the raising of his son, Matthew Long. In the picture, the two new Master Masons – Richard, left, and Matthew, right – flank Past Master Henry Long to make three generations in the Lodge.

Unusual Raisings in Harry S. Johnson Lodge


Two Past Masters helped Dunkirk’s successful program – Worshipful Brother Max Pauley as Santa and Worshipful Brother Earl Rice as Santa’s elf.

Santa’s Reindeer Attract CrowdTo Dunkirk Lodge’s EventDunkirk Lodge held its first-ever Christmas event, called “Winterfest,” on December 10, which attracted a crowd of more than 400 persons.

The lodge had Santa Claus and his Elf, plus two live reindeer make their appearance. Even though their names weren’t Comet and Cupid, but Roxie and Velvet, they were the highlight of the evening.

The crowd started slow for the outdoor event, with temperatures

about 20 degrees, but soon more than 400 people arrived. Santa talked with all the kids and passed out some 275 bags of candy.

The Lodge provided hot dogs, chili, desserts, and lots of hot drinks for the people.

Dunkirk Lodge asked visitors to bring canned goods to donate for the community food pantry and they collected 676 cans.

The great turn out accomplished the Lodge’s goals – raising food for the pantry, seeing the excitement on all the kids faces to see Santa and his Reindeer, and making this, what Lodge members called, “the biggest event to happen in the Village of Dunkirk for years.”

Dunkirk has 55 members. During the event, four men come forward and asked how they could be a part of the Masonic Lodge, and eventually turned in petitions.

Humboldt Lodge Secretary Named to Hall of FamePaul E. Norris was recognized as Secretary of the Year at Grand Lodge in October and became the seventh member of the Ohio Lodge Secretary Hall of Fame. Worshipful Brother Norris was secretary of Humboldt Lodge #476 for 12 years and then decided to retire. Since retirement,

he has been called back to service as Secretary twice due to emergencies, and continues in that role today. He received a plaque from Grand Secretary George O. Braatz and his name appears on the Hall of Fame plaque in the Grand Lodge Office.

PGM Neil M. SmalleyHonored for 50 Years Past Grand Master Neil M. Smalley was recognized on Nov. 25 for his 50 years as a Master Mason in Alpha Lodge #729. From left, are Worshipful Master Arnold Grubb, Most Worshipful Brother Smalley, Grand Master Charles R. Murphy, Willis Wallbaum, who also received his 50-year award, and Steven D. Behme, District Deputy Grand Master in the Second Masonic District.


Thanksgiving Breakfast Greets Grand MasterImagine more than 150 Masons gathering in a small Northwestern Ohio town at 6 a.m. on Thanksgiving to watch the Master Mason Degree and have a pancake and sausage breakfast.

This activity has been happening in Hicksville Lodge #478 for 61 years. The numbers may differ – some years exceeding 200 attendees. Sometimes, a Grand Master has attended.

This year, 154 brethren welcomed Most Worshipful Brother Charles R. Murphy, Grand Master to the

annual event. The register showed 35 Lodges were represented and Masons came from four states, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, and Maine.

The Lodge room was packed for the degree work and the dining room was crowded for breakfast. By 9 a.m., everyone was heading home for their traditional Thanksgiving feasts.

Grand Lodge Officers attended Thanksgiving dinner celebrations at all three campuses of the Ohio Masonic Home in November. Grand Master Charles R. Murphy and his wife, Zoellen, talk with residents at the Browning Home in Waterville. Deputy Grand Master Terry W. Posey helps slice the turkey for residents at the Springfield campus.

Grand Lodge Officers Visit Masonic Home Locations at Thanksgiving


How to Relieve Stress

One question not asked enough by people under stress is how to relieve stress. Unfortunately, people who are under stress tend to take it as a matter of course and simply accept it as some sort of natural occurrence. People feeling the effects of stress don’t always take the time to notice that they are under stress and need relief.

Are you having trouble concentrating? Are you struggling with a project that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere? Are you dealing with people who simply will not listen to sense? Are you frustrated with the way things are going? If so, you have stress. Relieving stress begins with recognizing the warning signs.

The first thing to do is learn how to walk away. That’s right, get up, go someplace else, and just cool off. It is vital to take a few deep breaths away from the action. The work will still be there when you get back, but being there beyond your breaking point will not get it done. An overabundance of things to do will not be helped by a clouded mind, so give your mind a break. Then, once your head is clear again, you can head back and bang out the projects with the greatest of ease. Or at least more ease.

Another method is to simply concentrate on nothing. Practice an exercise in meditation. Sit down, close your eyes and think about absolutely nothing. Take a deep breath in and then push that breath out. Feel every motion of the air and notice how it feels as it exits. Imagine your tension flowing out with the air, evaporating into the endless space of the atmosphere, diluting into a complete dilution of oxygen. Think about nothing but breathing and notice every moment

2009 Calendar Events

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The following are dates for 2009 signature events for Ohio Masonic Home campuses. Dates may be subject to change.

Saturday, March 21 – Statewide Open House for All Masonic Buildings

Saturday, June 13 – Grand Master’s (One-Day) ClassSunday, June 14 – Ohio Masonic Home Day

at Springfield Masonic CommunitySaturday, July 25 – Browning Masonic Community

Cruise-in at Browning Masonic CommunityMonday, July 27 – Legends Golf Classic in Medina Monday, September 14 – Legends Golf Classic in FairbornSaturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11 –

Fourth Annual Renaissance Faire at Western Reserve Masonic Community

In a several-year-old tradition, the families from all the Lodges in Tuscarawas County united for their annual joint Christmas part at Tuscarawas Lodge in Dover on December 10. It was an evening of food and festivities. Brother Gary Piatt, of Bolivar, made an appearance as Santa Claus.

New Philadelphia Lodge #177 also rang the bell for the Salvation Army at a couple locations that week.

Tuscarawas County Tradition Continues

Good nutrition and plenty of exercise can help reduce or keep stress out of your life.

of the experience. Then, after about 3 or 4 breaths – or as many as it takes – open your eyes. You should feel as refreshed as though you just took a quick, refreshing nap. If you don’t, repeat the exercise until your mind is clear and you are able to concentrate on your work again.

These activities are very effective for a short period of time, but you will also need a method for relieving stress in the long run. After all, it is taxing to notice that you are under stress and it takes a great deal of will to make that leap and push away all those feelings.

In the long term, the best method to choose is to do what you always say you are going to do: eat right, exercise, and get enough sleep at night. If you eat right, you will feel better during the day, if you exercise, you will feel better during the day and sleep better at night, and if you sleep enough, you will actually clear away all that fogginess that can lead to stress. So do your body and your mind a favor by taking care of those little things that you keep telling yourself you will do tomorrow.


Charitable Giving and Guaranteed IncomeBy Right Worshipful Brother Timothy B. Strawn, CAE, President, The OMH Benevolent Endowment Foundation

FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE

We’ve all heard and, by now, personally learned of the impact the economy’s recent troubles have had on our own assets. Many have observed there’s really been no asset class to “escape” to this time…not bonds, not real estate, not commodities. Thus, we’ve all taken a hit.

As frequently happens, even with the most knowledgeable fi nancial planners, the benefi ts of charitable giving have been overlooked. For example, even in this diffi cult time a Charitable Gift Annuity (CGA) can provide a guaranteed income for life with a portion of that income stream tax free for a period of time and a nice income tax deduction in the year the gift is created. CGA’s can be written for one person or two.

For example, John (78 years of age) and Ann (75 years of age) decide that they want to create a CGA for the benefi t of The Home. Because this is their fi rst such gift, they’ll use just $10,000 to test the program but they understand

there’s no maximum limit on the amount they could use. In exchange for their $10,000 cash gift, they receive: • An income tax deduction of

$3,994 in the year they make the gift*

• An annuity of $570 (usually provided in quarterly payments of $142.50) guaranteed for the rest of both their lives (payment does not change when only one remains)

• A portion ($392.73) of those annuity payments is tax free for 14 years with smaller amounts tax free for two more years; the remainder ($177.27) is taxed at their regular income tax rate; after the tax free portion expires, the entire amount ($570) is taxed at the regular income tax rate. And, if the gift is made with appreciated stock, much of the capital gains tax may be bypassed. *If the donor has met his/her

charitable deduction limit in the year of the gift, the deduction or a

portion of it may be carried over for up to fi ve additional years.

While a CGA is a combination of a gift and an annuity and not an investment, it obviously has some nice benefi ts. Compared to a taxable investment, this CGA has an effective equivalent rate of 9.1%.

Several of our senior friends have been so pleased with the way in which their CGA’s have worked out, they’ve come back to establish additional ones. By doing so, they can ladder their payments just as some folks do with bonds.

In a time when many fi nancial arrangements are in volatility and assets aren’t yielding much usable income, the CGA offers an opportu-nity for steady, guaranteed income as well as the knowledge and satis-faction of helping an organization which is important to you!

For more information on how a Charitable Gift Annuity can be benefi cial to you, contact the Foundation offi ce toll free at 888/248-2664! We think you’ll be glad you did!

A total of $1,000 was presented by Jennifer, Ryan and Michael Satterfi eld to Rick Glass, director, and Betty Beall, of the Perry County Children Services for its Christmas Fund to make the season joyful for many children. A “roast” had been held to honor Right Worshipful Brother Satterfi eld when he completed his term as District Deputy Grand Master in the 13th Masonic District this fall. In conjunction with the roast, a collection was made for the Children’s Services project at the request of Right Worshipful Brother Satterfi eld, who himself was adopted at the age of three by a Mason and his wife, Ray and Louise Satterfi eld.

13th District Masons Donate For Children’s Services


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 October 1 and November 30, 2008.

$10,000 + Falk, Flora E.Grosser, Walter CharlesWoodford, Fonda B.

$5,000 - $9,999 Grand Chapter of Ohio, RAMLaine, SylviaMcGlone, Thomas D.Moss, George K.Seifert, Dorothy T. & Myron T.Valley of Dayton, AASR

$2,500 - $4,999 Oberle, Betty H.Schulze, Vivian H.Sine, Anna LauraYork Lodge #563, F&AM

$1,000 - $2,499 Arters, George D. & B.J.Chambers, Dwight D. & RosannaDavis, Orlando W.Golden Gate Lodge #245, F&AMGroveport Lodge #240, F&AMHeights-Lion Heart Lodge #633,

F&AMKendig, Dorothy J.Mayberry, William P., Sr. & DeloresNew England Lodge #4, F&AMOld Erie Lodge #3, F&AMRubicon Lodge #237, F&AM

$500 - $999 24th Masonic District AssociationAlbin, Paul F. & CarolBethel Lodge #61, F&AMCalvary Lodge #700, F&AMFar Hills Lodge #784, F&AMFielding Lodge #192, F&AMHuber Heights Lodge #777, F&AMKelly, FloydLuther B. Turner Lodge #732, F&AMNational Lodge #568, F&AMNorth Bend Lodge #346, F&AMNorwood Winton Carthage Lodge

#576, F&AMPilgrim Lodge #691, F&AMSebring Lodge #626, F&AMSummit Lodge #213, F&AMTiffin Lodge #77, F&AMWashington Lodge #17, F&AMWilliams, Frank R.Wirick, Larry D.

$100 - $499 10th Masonic District Association14th Masonic District AssociationAladdin Temple Past Masters UnitAltman, Harry P.Andrews, Jeffery P.Arcanum Lodge #295, F&AMArmstrong, Eugene A.Augusta Lodge #504, F&AM

Barger, Jerry A.Bass, Robert L.Batavia Lodge #104, F&AMBell, Bernard Lee & MargaretBenjamin Franklin Lodge #719, F&AMBluffton Lodge #432, F&AMBosse, David A.Brede, Luther & NancyBridgeport Lodge #181, F&AMBrown, Gordon P.Butlerville Lodge #135, F&AMCarmany, Harry J.Caudill, Dan, Jr.Charity Lodge #530, F&AMCollege Hill-Harry S. Johnson Lodge

#641, F&AMCollinwood Lodge #582, F&AMCoolville Lodge #337, F&AMCorning Lodge #584, F&AMCreps, Michael R.Crusader Lodge #720, F&AMCubbison, Robert W. & JeanCypress Lodge #604, F&AMDavids, Howard W.Delta Lodge #207, F&AMDeyo, Jim S. & MargieDover Lodge #489, F&AME.T. Carson Lodge #598, F&AMEasterling, James F., Jr. & JillEmery Lodge #258, F&AMEnglewood Lodge #743, F&AMErie Lodge #239, F&AMEvergreen Lodge #222, F&AMForest City Lodge #388, F&AMGehrmann, Charles A.Gerard Lodge #428, F&AMGermantown Lodge #257, F&AMGeyser, Richard L.Grand Chapter of Ohio, RAM Officers

and LadiesGreen, David D.Groves, Larry E. & Margaret; Groves, Mr.

& Mrs. William; Groves, RichardH.S. Kissell Lodge #674, F&AMHaines, Carl F. & AliceHarkins, Daniel C.Harmony Lodge #8, F&AMHart’s Grove Lodge #397, F&AMHatch, Leonard P. & MaxineHenritze, Pam R.Hicksville Lodge #478, F&AMHillyer, HudsonHobson, Charles H.Holcomb, J. Robert & AntoinetteHoover, Douglas E.Hovan, Richard G.Huff, Forrest W.Inboden, Marc B.Irish Council #67, Knight Masons USAJerusalem Lodge #19, F&AMJuilliard Lodge #460, F&AMKarth, Charles E. & MarjorieKopacka, Jeffrey N.Kreigh, Robert

Kuss, Richard L.Lakewood Lodge #601, F&AMLeesburg Lodge #78, F&AMLiberty Center Lodge #518, F&AMLincoln Lodge #693, F&AMMason Lodge #678, F&AMMechanicsburg Lodge #113, F&AMMeridian Sun Lodge #69, F&AMMoscow Lodge #122, F&AMMowry, David Dee & KathyMullett, Barbara J.Mystic Tie Lodge #194, F&AMNew Holland Lodge #392, F&AMNew Home Lodge #338, F&AMOgle, Donald & MicheleOrion Lodge #353, F&AMParamuthia Lodge #25, F&AMParkside Lodge #736, F&AMPugh, John R.Reeve, Leonard R. & OliveRoark, Oscar C. & Judith; Adair,

Charles, Judy, Julie, Phil; Roark Chandler

Sackett, Floris A.Salineville Lodge #348, F&AMSampson, Katherine B.Schafer, Albert C. & BeatriceScio Lodge #587, F&AMScott, MichaelShank, Harold & JosephineShelby Lodge #350, F&AMSorbin, Michael D.Southward, John C.Sprague, Richard LeeStephenson, Virginia M.Steubenville Lodge #45, F&AMStrawn, Timothy B. & LoisStrongsville Lodge #728, F&AMTapogna, Richard H., M.D.Teschner, ArvinThe Order of the Red Cross of

ConstantineTrinker, Howard W. & DorothyVan Hoozen, Barry & HallieVerbsky, Arriton L.Waltz, Jeffrey P.Webb, ScottWeibley, James E.Western Hills - Cheviot Lodge #140,

F&AMWestern Star Lodge #21, F&AMWeyer Lodge #541, F&AMWhite, JohnWhitehall Lodge #761, F&AMWilkes, Avon & CarolWilliam McKinley Lodge #431, F&AMWilliams, RobertWilliamson, James M. & SherryWolf, BeulahWood County Lodge #112, F&AMWyoming Lodge #186, F&AMZuspan, Fredrick Paul

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

January/February 2009 • VOLUME 16, ISSUE 1

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

In This Issue:Statewide Masonic Open House........Page 1Travel Clubs Offer Adventure ............Page 4Disabled Adults May Benefit From Helping Hands.........................Page 5Charity at its Best ..............................Page 6Service Award Photo Album...........Page 8-9

Michael Puskarich saw The Ohio Masonic Home into the 21st Cen-tury as a member of the Board of Trustees from 2000 to 2005. After a three-year break to spend time with his family, he’s re-energized and

excited about helping the organization’s future growth.Seeing the suc-cess of programs such as Masonic Senior Services and the I-CARE program which were in their infancy when he left, and

new ones such as Masonic Helping Hands, are motivators for Michael.

Michael recalls seeing Spring-field campus projects such as the renovation of The Apartments at Cunningham Place, the addition to Rickly Commons and the building of Iredell Gardens as well as the purchase of Western Reserve in Medina. And that has him looking down the road as to weighing deci-sions and making adjustments that will benefit all campuses.

Having the business experience of being able to take a number of

issues, digest them, disseminate them and work with a number of people to put them in place in a team setting translates well into his work with the Board.

After working for many years at his family’s mine and coal business, Michael took some time off and in 2008 partnered in a similar business with Bro. Dennis Hendershot. HLC Resources is involved in construction as well as a “Green Approach” to recycling coal from former underground mine locations.

“I have never believed that Board Members should be involved in the day to day activities of The Home or any other organization but should be the ones responsible for selecting the vision and direction and then turning it over to a skilled and dedicated staff. We should always keep the Masonic virtues and team approach in mind.”

Getting the organization through the tough times, making smart deci-sions with the endowment, creating new monies and being financially responsible are things Michael praises the current Board for doing.

“It’s been an honor to serve the Masons of Ohio in this capacity,” said Michael.

Pride in the Past, an Eye on the FutureBrother Michael Puskarich, 33rd degree

Brother Michael Puskarich

Michael’s dad was a Mason, but one of Michael’s biggest regrets is that he didn’t join the fraternity while his dad was alive. Michael encouraged his brother, Matt, to join and said he’s extremely proud to have his brother as a Brother.

Michael rose to become the Master of Harrison Lodge #219, Past District Deputy Grand Master and serves as the District Adviser for the 23rd Masonic District. Besides being coronated a 33rd degree, he is also very involved in the York Rite currently serving as Eminent Commander of Steubenville Commandery #11.

“Masonry is a wonderful ride,” he said. “The brothers and people who I’ve met along the way makes the fraternity.” When non-Masons or new Masons ask about what Masonry is to him, Michael taps his heart and tells them that’s where the true meaning of Masonry resides.

Although his work and Masonry consume a lot of his time, Michael values his family foremost. He said he appreciates his wife, Judy’s support of his efforts, as well as his son Michael, age 13, and daughter Jenna, who is a junior at the University of Akron.

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