BEACONMary/June 2008 VOLUME 15, ISSUE 3

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

Home Day To Celebrate BicentennialHome Day 2008 is coming! Being the Bicentennial of Ohio Freemasonry, Home Day is a particularly special day this year. On Sunday, Sept. 7, at Springfi eld Masonic Community, you can expect the traditional fun and camaraderie along with some special additions.

Here’s what you can expect from this 24th annual event:• Musical entertainment• Food and treats of all

types• Crafts and a resident

fl ea market• Special exhibits and

give-aways• Tours of Springfi eld

Masonic Community’s garden villa homes and apartments

• Kids games and treats• The Home’s famous

strawberry shortcake• The Shrine Parade,

which will cap Home Day

A special attraction this year will be a ceremony featuring the burial of time capsules representing each of the 25 Ohio Masonic Districts, Scottish Rite, York Rite, The Grand Lodge and The Ohio Masonic Home. The ceremony will take place in the campus cemetery at the conclusion of the Shrine Parade. Learn how you can be a part of this historic

Special Olympics Opening Ceremonies on Friday, June 27 – see more on page 5

event on page 15.Home Day is a great time to

celebrate Ohio Freemasonry, visit old friends and meet new ones and visit residents of Springfi eld

The annual Shrine Parade, which caps Home Day each year, leads to smiles for attendees.

Masonic Community.Many lodges

traditionally send a delegation to Springfi eld. Come out and be a part of this special event!

Springfi eld Masonic Community is located at 2655 West National

For more information on how you can be involved in Ohio Masonic Home Day, call (937) 525-3025.

What are we doing for the Future?By Ronald L. Winnett, Grand Master

The early pioneers who came to the Northwest Territory, from which Ohio was formed, led by example and inspired others to be a part of our fraternity.

While working for harmony and peace, I’m sure they also talked about Freemasonry. Two hundred years later, things have not changed. My hope is that we will rekindle those embers and spread the fl ames among our Brethren.

The Wonderful World of Freemasonry deserves our affection and our labors to bring it back to those glory days. We can do this if we work together. We have done it in the past, and with your help, we will do it again.

We have a perfect opportunity to rekindle those fl ames on June 21 in Columbus.

Come march in the parade, or be a spectator that day. Watch the re-enactment of the cornerstone laying at the state capital. (See page 4 for details.)

Just imagine the message we can send, if we have 10,000 to 20,000

Masons, wearing the aprons from all the bodies of Masonry, at the state capital on June 21.

Following the ceremony, a free picnic will be held at the Ohio Village near the state fairgrounds.

Brethren, as we celebrate our Bicentennial, we also have to look to the future. Show the public who we are and what we do for humanity.

Our forefathers laid down the foundation and made it possible for

2 May/June 2008

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 45504-3698937/525-3025bturner@ohiomasonichome.org

George Braatz, P.G.M.,Grand Secretary atThe Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of OhioP.O. Box 629Worthington, OH 43085-0629614/885-5318gbraatz@freemason.com

us to enjoy what we have today. It’s time for us to look into the mirror and ask ourselves, “What have we done for our future?”

Homeworth Lodge Led By Second GenerationAt the installation of offi cers of Homeworth Lodge #499, two Past District Deputy Grand Masters of the 24th Masonic District had the opportunity to install their sons as Lodge Offi cers. In the back row are Right Worshipful Brother James F. Hahlen, left, and Right Worshipful Brother Harold F. Bates. The younger generation of leaders, from left in the front row, are Paul K. Hahlen, Senior Warden; Matthew J. Hahlen, Senior Deacon, and David E. Bates, Worshipful Master.

May/June 2008 3

Exercise Your Brotherly LoveBy Worshipful Brother Wm. David Bannerman, Chief Executive Offi cer, The Ohio Masonic Home

I have heard from several of you that you read my March/April column and it sparked your inter-est. Some of you have made that call to your Congressman or Senator, I hope. It takes about 35 calls or hand-written letters to spark a response from a Congressman. There are over 100,000 of you who read the Beacon. Think about the response if a couple of hundred of you made that call to fund long term care at the cost of a cup of coffee.

How do you exercise? Do you walk, work out, golf, swim, play sports? Do you exercise your mind through Sudoku, crosswords, puzzles or reading? Are any of you using a Wii?

In a recent survey, we found out that many of you exercise your brotherly love and relief. One in four of you over the age of 65 are caregivers. That means thousands

of you help someone regularly. That is fantastic!

On the other hand, how many of you are willing to ask for help? Not many. Our measure of a man has been an individual taking action, often by himself. That mea-sure needs to change. Asking for help is an important measure. Not seeking help can lead to back inju-ries from lifting, medical treatment that could have been prevented and early death that is unnecessary.

Tell your doctor what is really wrong with you. Ask for help. We have I-CARE coordinators around the state available to help you solve a problem. They do not know you need help.

If you look at the prayer lists in your organization, you know there are a lot of people who need help. Call your I-CARE coordinator on their behalf. In our lodge we

Prince Hall Lodge Starts I-CARE Committee

The Masonic Senior Services I-CARE program is continuing expansion to serve more fraternity members around the state. This year has brought the addition of the fi rst Ohio Prince Hall Lodge to form an I-CARE committee.

Phoenix Lodge #112, Akron, established its committee in March with the help of Northeast Ohio I-CARE Coordinator Jan Rookard, Northwest Ohio Coordinator Liz Witter, and former Southeast Coordinator Amy Colley.

I-CARE (Independence through Coordination, Assistance, Referral and Education) helps Senior Masons, their wives and widows and Eastern Star members remain independent in their homes by

identifying and coordinating community-based services. Coordinators can also help arrange for home services. Committees help identify members who could benefi t from such services and volunteer their time and assistance in several ways, such as providing companionship and transportation.

Brother Pete Bucey is serving as the Phoenix Lodge I-CARE chairman. Committee members include Worshipful Brother Otis Beecher, Past Grand Master Larry Johnson, Senior Worshipful Brother Redgi Price, Brothers Eugene

Hammonds, Daron Wright and Bobby Cunningham.

The committee is already at work helping with doctor appointment visits, transportation to pick up prescriptions and friendly visits. Some committee members are also going to help in a Habitat for Humanity project.

Jan said she is also in the process of helping a Canton Prince Hall Chapter, Hiram Abiff Lodge #72, get an I-CARE Committee going. “It’s an exciting time for Prince Hall to be a part of the I-CARE committees and utilizing the I-CARE services,” said Jan.

Masonic Senior Services coordi-nators are available throughout the state for all lodges. nators are available throughout the

Final Logo with 80% screen

For more information on Masonic Senior Services and the I-CARE program, call 888-286-0010 or go to www.ohiomasonichome.org.

Ohio Masonic Home CEO Dave Bannerman shakes hands with former baseball star and Cy Young Award-winning pitcher Jim Perry, who heads up the Jim Perry Legends Golf Classic each year, with proceeds going to Dementia and Alzheimer’s care.

suspended people because we did not hear from them despite repeated letters. Then we read their obituary or heard they went to the hospital for a serious problem. They are supposed to be our brothers, but they did not ask for help, nor did we check on them to see how they were doing.

Change that. Exercise your broth-erly love. Ask for help for yourself or your brother. We are waiting.

Donation checks should be made out to Grand Lodge of Ohio Charitable Foundation. Please, be sure to write “Special Olympics” and your Lodge number in the memo section (Special Olympics - #376, for example). Donations should be mailed to: The Grand Lodge of Ohio, Charitable Foundation, P.O. Box 629, Worthington, Ohio 43085-0629.

Thank you for allowing the Special Olympians the opportunity to participate in these important Summer Games.

DONATION FORM

MY DONATION TO SPECIAL OLYMPICS $_____________

NAME _____________________________________________

ADDRESS __________________________________________

___________________________________________________

LODGE NAME _____________________________________

No. __________________

4 May/June 2008

Ohio Masons are again being asked to contribute both fi nancially and of their time towards making the Ohio Special Olympic Summer Games a success for all of Ohio’s Special Athletes.

Opening Ceremonies will be held at OSU’s Jesse Owens Track in Columbus on Friday, June 27.

Ohio Masons will gather at the track at 6 p.m. to lead the March of Athletes for the opening ceremo-nies. The fi rst 500 Masons will re-ceive a commemorative hat and pin. Refreshments will be served by the Ohio Grotto Association afterwards

Members of Rubicon Lodge #237 in Waterville proudly display the many plaques and awards from Ohio Speical Olympics and the Grand Lodge, which they have received over the years for their long and generous support of the Ohio Special Olympics program. The latest one is the 2007 Jerry C. Rasor award from the Grand Lodge, which is on the Ohio-shaped plaque. The Lodge currently meets at Browning Masonic Community in Waterville.

Ohio Masons Continue to Support Special Olympics

Parade Spectators Needed!

in the Family Hospitality Tent near the Track.

Last year a record breaking $200,000 was contributed by the

fraternity. Hopefully, this Bicentennial year will set a new record.

On Saturday, June 21, a Grand Masonic parade will be held in downtown Columbus, just prior to the reenactment of the cornerstone laying ceremony for the Statehouse and the Masonic Family picnic at the Ohio Village.

Every Brother Mason needs to know that he and his family are invited to participate in the day’s activities. The parade will kick off at 10 a.m.

“It won’t be much of a parade if we don’t have anyone watching along the way,” said Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett. “We’ve planned June 21 as a celebration for the whole family. This would even be a great opportunity to let potential members see what Freemasonry is all about.”

In many areas of the state, buses are being planned to bring large groups of Masons and their families to Columbus that day.

Those planning on attending the festivities should park at the Ohio Village, 1982 Velma Avenue, Columbus. Buses will be available starting at 8:30 a.m. to shuttle everyone to the Statehouse and back to the Ohio Village for the picnic.

Further details about the June 21 celebration are available at www.freemason.com or by calling 800-292-6092.

May/June 2008 5

Golf with a Sports Legend This Summer“Legends” represent fabulous stories. They are respected and remembered fondly, despite the passage of time. Their spirit and accomplishments touch people’s hearts and are passed from generation to generation. Now, you can meet a sports legend and even share a meal and play golf with one!

You have three shots at joining a sports legend for a day of golf, food and fellowship while helping a great cause with the 2008 Jim Perry

Legends Golf Classic. The fi rst will be Monday, July 28, in Medina near Cleveland. The others will be Monday, Sept. 15, and Tuesday, Sept. 16, in Fairborn near Dayton.

Now in its sixth year with The Ohio Masonic Home and presented by the Benevolent Endowment Foundation, organizers are excited to offer the event in Northeast Ohio for the fi rst time, where Jim Perry started his professional career with the Cleveland Indians, going on to win 215 games, including the 1970 Cy Young Award.

Proceeds from the Medina event will go to support Alzheimer’s/dementia care at Medina’s Western Reserve Masonic Community and those from the Fairborn event will go to Alzheimer’s/dementia care on the Springfi eld Masonic Community campus.

Twenty-fi ve Legends from baseball, football and basketball will participate. In addition to Jim Perry, Cleveland heroes coming to the Medina event will include Browns Hall of Fame end Dante Lavelli and Pro Bowl quarterback Milt Plum. Other Legends will include former NCAA Final Four college basketball coach Johnny Orr, NBA center George Wilson and a host of baseball rookies of the year and Cy Young Award winners.

In addition, you’ll play one of the best golf courses around. Medina’s Blue Herron Golf Club was recently named one of the best new public courses in America by Golf Digest. The day also includes a golf clinic, a boxed lunch on the course and a dinner and auction in which you’ll mix with the Legends, enjoy a tasty meal and have the chance to bid on a variety of valuable and collectible items including sports memorabilia.

Even those who don’t golf can get involved. Sponsorship opportunities allow you to help this great cause. Tickets are available separately for dinner, which includes the opportunity to meet the Legends and participate in the auction.

The September Legends Classic will be at Fairborn’s Greene Coun-try Club for the third consecutive year. Returning Legends include legendary Ohio State football coach-es Earle Bruce and John Cooper, NCAA Final Four basketball referee Ed Hightower as well as several members of the 1960 world cham-pion Pittsburgh Pirates team.

For more information on the Medina event, call Glenn Beaver at 440-257-2027. For more information on the Fairborn event, Call Ron Molen of the Foundation at 888/248-2664.

Ice Sculpture Promotes Ohio FreemasonryThis ice sculpture, displayed at the annual Icefest in Hamilton in early 2008, was sponsored by the three local Lodges in the community. The event and display resulted in a successful promotion of Freemasonry to the public and was supported by Hugh L. Bates Lodge #686, Washington Lodge #17, and Benjamin Franklin Lodge #719.

Several former athletes playing in the Legends event are also part of the Masonic fraternity such as Brother Galen Cisco, about to tee off here.

6 May/June 2008

Loving It

Jeanne Kohler is as active as ever. At 88, she’s been “too busy” to participate in the many activities offered at Western Reserve Masonic Community. “I might have time for that when I get older,” she said. “Right now, my priority is my job at the hospital.”

After moving to Medina several years ago to be closer to her son, Jeanne took a job as a volunteer at nearby Medina General Hospital, which she continues to do. “I won’t give up my hospital volunteering,” she said. “It’s my way of giving back.”

Although she spends a lot of time off campus and relaxing in her apartment, Jeanne likes her independence, going where she pleases or just staying in and relaxing when she chooses. Moving to an independent living apartment at Western Reserve Masonic Community in February 2007 made this possible.

“This is where I want to be,” she said. “I love everything about it.”

Although being close to family and having the independence to do her outside activities were important to Jeanne in her decision to come to Western Reserve

Masonic Community, one of the main reasons she came to the community was that she was able to bring her dog, Morgan.

“Morgan was part of my deal for coming here,” said Jeanne. “Everybody here loves Morgan. When we go down the hall, everybody makes over her. That makes me happy.”

Jeanne said she has made friends with many other residents and they often eat in the dining room together. The friendliness isn’t limited to just residents. The staff also makes her feel welcome.

She points to numerous times the staff has helped her. Once on a cold, snowy night when Morgan needed to go out, a staff member volunteered to do it for Jeanne.

Another time, she needed to drive someplace after it snowed. Jeanne was prepared to clear the snow from her car windows only to fi nd it had already been done for her.

Jeanne likes the peace of mind knowing Western Reserve Masonic Community is a Continuing Care Retirement Center that will provide services if she experiences health issues.

In turn, Jeanne is telling others at her hospital job, “You can’t beat Western Reserve. I have never been happier. This is where I’m comfortable.” been happier. This is where I’m

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

Several special events have been planned to make the wives and ladies feel welcome at this year’s Grand Lodge Annual Communication, to be held in Columbus on October 16-18.

“Despite what the husbands may think, the ladies are always invited to Grand Lodge in October…especially this year,” said Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett.

The Grand Master’s Ball will be held Thursday evening, October 16

Grand Master Invites Ladies to Grand Lodgeand will feature the hip sounds of the GeezeCats, who will keep the evening hopping with classic early rock ‘n’ roll tunes of the late ‘50s and early ‘60s.

Linda Winnett, the First Lady of Ohio Freemasonry, will host several other events, which will include opportu-nities to socialize, dine, and shop. More details on these events will be available in mailings to Lodges.

A special Masonic Exhibition has been planned by the Grand Lodge

of Ohio and the Ohio Historical Society to give a peak behind the veil of Masonic secrecy so that the ladies and others might see just what goes on within the fraternity. It will feature rare artifacts from Ohio and U.S. history, including several George Washington relics.

“Linda and I hope that the women will start making plans to attend and enjoy this year’s Grand Session with their husbands,” said Winnett.

Jeanne Kohler, an independent living resident at Western Reserve Masonic Community, likes to spend time as a volunteer at Medina General Hospital.

May/June 2008 7

Always Willing to Help

Karl Denniss has trained service dogs for 65 years. In 1942, he started training dogs and men for the Marines. “We saved a lot of lives,” he said.

When he got out of the military, Karl established the fi rst K-9 unit in Ohio. He then started training service dogs for the disabled. “I’ve trained hundreds of dogs,” Karl said. “It’s a good feeling to know you’ve helped people.”

Karl trains dogs to provide more than 100 different functions, from picking things up from the fl oor, running errands and “watching your backside for the deaf,” Karl said. As a profession, Karl was a trust banker and executive for The Toledo Trust Co.

Thirteen years ago, Karl suffered a debilitating stroke that landed him in the University of Toledo Hospital for 11 months, leaving him in need of a service dog. He got two dogs: “Hunz,” a Great Dane who helps Karl get in and out of his wheelchair and other tasks, and “Goody,” a Sealyham Terrier who helps around the house. “Without service dogs, I’d be in a nursing home,” he said.

Karl and his wife, Stephanie, had been living

in a retirement community in the Columbus area before moving to the Browning Masonic Community. Karl, a member of Robinson Locke Lodge #659, had visited the Waterville campus 20 years ago and was impressed with it. “The Masonic values are alive and well at the Browning Masonic Community,” he said. “We’ve been overjoyed with the campus.”

Karl and Stephanie live with their dogs in a garden villa home on the Browning campus. “Like my Masonic lodge, my involvement at the Browning Masonic Community has allowed me to develop friendships,” Karl said. “A brother Mason is always willing to help.”

Likewise, Karl, while vacationing recently in Florida, met a woman there with dementia and needing a service dog. She already had a “mutt,” Karl said. So he spent his four-month vacation training it to help the woman. “It had to be done,” he said. “It was more rewarding than vacationing.”

Browning Masonic Community has supported his work with animals. “The staff here is great,” Karl said. “My wife and I are very happy.” Karl said. “My wife and I are very

101-Year-Old’s Estate HelpsCharitable FoundationThe Grand Lodge received a donation to its Charitable Founda-tion from the estate of Brother Orren D. Weitzel, a 101-year-old member of Ebenezer Lodge #33 in Wooster, Ohio.

Over the years, Brother Weitzel was very active in the Lodge. He died in May, 2006, almost 49 years exactly from when he received his Master Mason Degree.

Ohio Governor Ted Strickland, center, is pictured with Worshipful Master Michael Miller and other members of Allen Lodge #276, of Columbiana. They met with the governor at an event in East Liverpool and, at the Lodge request, the Governor Strickland signed a proclamation making April 26, 2008, Local Special Olympics Day and also commemorating the 200th Anniversary of the Grand Lodge of Ohio.

Governor Strickland Meets with Allen Lodge Members

For more information on Browning Masonic Community, call 1-866-878-4055 or go to www.ohiomasonichome.org.

8 May/June 2008

PRELUDE TO ESTABLISHING GRAND LODGE

Ohio and Freemasonry as 1808 BeginsBy Charles Eichensehr, Grand Historian

As the year 1808 began, the state of Ohio was in the middle of a growth spurt. The population grew from 45,000 in 1800 to 231,000 in 1810.

Ohio’s economy was beginning to grow as more and more land was being cleared. There was an increase in marketable goods. Politically, Ohio was in its fourth full year of statehood, with the fi fth General Assembly being held at Chillicothe, the new state capital.

A number of the delegates to the Legislature were members of the Masonic Order. It is very probable that the topic of forming a Grand Lodge of Ohio may have been discussed.

As 1808 dawned, there were 15 Grand Masonic Jurisdictions in

the United States. They are listed here in the order that they were established:

1. Grand Lodge of North Carolina, 1771 2. Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, 1777 3. Grand Lodge of Virginia, 1777 4. Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, 1786 5. Grand Lodge of New Jersey, 1786 6. Grand Lodge of Georgia, 1786 7. Grand Lodge of Maryland, 1787 8. Grand Lodge of New York, 1787 9. Grand Lodge of South Carolina, 178710. Grand Lodge of Connecticut, 178911. Grand Lodge of New Hampshire, 178912. Grand Lodge of Rhode Island, 179113. Grand Lodge of Vermont, 179414. Grand Lodge of Kentucky, 180015. Grand Lodge of Delaware, 1806

There were 17 States in the Union at that time and all but Tennessee and Ohio had Grand Lodges.

The formation of a Grand Lodge in Ohio would allow the Freemasons to regulate the rules governing individual lodges and the ritual work. This would provide a central authority to mediate and maintain order. The distance, hardship in travel, and the missed communication to some of the above jurisdictions had to be part of early discussion.

The fi rst offi cial move was made with a letter by Erie Lodge No. 47 (now Old Erie Lodge #3), and after much communication with the six Lodges then operating in Ohio, all six lodges agreed to meet. A time and place was established, and delegates chosen. With that, everything was in place for the next step to constitute a new Grand Lodge.

Bicentennial Banner On Display in EnglandAt least one of Ohio’s Bicentennial banners is on display in England. Michael Cassel, a Past Master of Canton Lodge #60, took the banner to present during a Lodge visit to Norfolk Royal Air Force Lodge #5984 in the Province of Norfolk, Dereham, England. With Worshipful Brother Cassel, left, is Worshipful Master Ivon J. Weston. The English brethren really liked the banner, particularly the emblems of the Wright Brothers airplane and the astronaut on the banner. The majority of the members of this Lodge are retired U.S. and Royal Air Force servicemen.

May/June 2008 9

At our Grand Lodge Communication next October, an exposition of some treasured Masonic artifacts will be on display, including the St. John’s Bible, on which George Washington took his fi rst oath of offi ce as President.

At least fi ve Presidents have taken the oath of offi ce on this Bible: Washington, Warren G. Harding, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Jimmy Carter, and George H. Bush. Of the fi ve, only Washington and Harding were Freemasons.

George W. Bush requested the Bible in 2001, and the fragile 10-pound book was hand-carried to Washington, D.C., by members of St. John’s Lodge in New York City. Unfortunately, the rain poured down on inauguration day, which would have placed the book in danger, and it was not used.

The Bible was placed on display in a museum in New York later that year, just three blocks from the World Trade Center, where, in a dis-play case, it survived the horrible destruction of September 11, 2001.

I was surprised to realize that I have had a connection and personal

relations with three of the fi ve presidents mentioned who have taken their oath of offi ce on the St. John’s Bible.

During a family vacation in August, 1952, at the age of 8, I accompanied my family on a short vacation in Gettysburg, PA. After we checked into a motel, I headed for the swimming pool, and met two teenagers who were life guards. After some conversation, they asked if my parents had any plans for the evening, and I received permission to go with them.

We got pizza and then headed to their grandfather’s farm where we enjoyed the pizza and pop with their “Papa” in the summer kitchen on the farm. I was too young to realize who I had just eaten pizza with – as their grandfather was General Dwight D. Eisenhower, who became president the following year.

In October, 2002, I spent a weekend at a golf resort in State College, PA. During the fall, when golfi ng slows down, they offer a fl y fi shing package. On that day, former President Jimmy Carter and

his party were there also. It was a special time, because that afternoon, former President Carter was announced as the recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.

In 1990, President George Herbert Walker Bush was the guest at a reception at Ashbrook Center on the campus of Ashland University in Ohio. As he entered the room for a private reception, prior to his speech, he removed his jacket and rolled up his shirt sleeves and had a seat. It was with great surprise to discover he was wearing a Mickey Mouse watch.

It is amazing to me as I acknowledge that I have had a relationship and connection with three Presidents who took an oath on the St. John’s Bible.

Right Worshipful Brother Dann L. Marble

At least 9 Masons have served 10 terms as Governor of Ohio, according to research performed by Right Worshipful Brother Thomas L. Brenneman, of Delphos, a Past District Deputy Grand Master in the 10th Masonic District.

The Masonic Governors served for some 45 years, about 25 percent of the history of Ohio.

There may have been more Masons in that position, but these are the ones known for sure.

Masons Who Served as Ohio’s GovernorSamuel Huntington 1808-1810Return Johnthon Meggs 1810-1814 Thomas Worthington 1814-1818Robert Lucas 1832-1836William McKinley 1892-1896Martin Davey 1935-1939John W Bricker 1939-1945John Brown 1957-1957James A Rhodes 1963-1971James A Rhodes 1975-1983

In addition, Arthur St. Clair was Governor of the Northwest Territory from 1787-1802 and was a Mason.

Also, Ohio has had eight native sons who were elected President of the United States. Four of those were Ohio Masons.

James A Garfi eld 1881-1883William McKinkey 1897-1901William H. Taft 1909-1913Warren G Harding 1921-1923

An Ohio Mason’s Relationship To Famed St. John’s BibleBy Dann L. Marble, District Deputy Grand Master

10 May/June 2008

Positive in Trying Times: The Great Depression and World War II

HISTORY OF OHIO FREEMASONRY - PART 4

By July 31, 1929, The Ohio Masonic Home’s population grew to 400 residents in the retirement and children’s home. Just a few months later, the country faced one of its most trying periods – the Great Depression. The Home still took on more people, with 539 residents July 1931, and by 1933, the children’s home hit its peak – 192 residents.

Despite the hardships, residents still enjoyed many advantages. Movies with sound, which replaced silents, were often shown in the auditorium. Other acts entertained as well.

There were many opportunities for the children’s home residents to prosper. A print shop was opened in 1936 that provided training for boys. The print shop also allowed The Home to save money on its own printed pieces and generated income by printing materials for outside customers. The Home also fi elded baseball and football teams, as well as a band, orchestra and choir groups.

In 1933, The Ohio Masonic Home was selected to host the Masonic Homes Executive Association of the United States annual meeting. MHEANA is an organization of Masonic Homes from around the country.

By 1941, changes were occurring. The children’s population declined to 100.

World War II meant sacrifi ces for all Americans and The Ohio Masonic Home was no exception.

Price increases meant a strain on the budget. Many alumni and employees joined the armed forces. More than 130 former residents of the children’s home served their country. Five of them died in action.

Cutbacks meant no offi cial celebration for the 50th anniversary of The Ohio Masonic Home’s cornerstone laying. Instead, people were encouraged to contribute to the Endowment Fund. Food was rationed.

To make up for staff losses, family members stepped in. More than 100 volunteers helped out. By 1945, more than 200 family members, including several youngsters, served as campus volunteers.

Even after the war ended in 1945, the spirit of volunteerism continued at The Ohio Masonic Home. In 1947, 300 members of The Home family volunteered on campus.

A memorial to veterans in front of Bushnell Hall was commemorated in 1950 with the names of children’s home residents who fought in World War I and World War II. The tradition continues today with plaques in the Lindner Commu-nity Center on the Springfi eld campus containing the names of past and current residents who served in the military, includ-ing two who fought in the Civil War and one from The Spanish American War. War and one from The Spanish

This fourth in a series celebrating the 200th anniversary of Ohio Freemasonry looks at how two of the fi rst half of the 20th Century’s most signifi cant events, the Great Depression and World War II, affected The Ohio Masonic Home.

Grand Master Visits Springfi eldMost Worshipful Ron Winnett recently visited Blanche Jones at the Springfi eld Masonic Community. Blanche, who lives in a villa home at the retirement community, was one of six residents who receive their Masonic Widow’s Pin from the Grand Master at the annual campus Widows Dinner.

New: Grand Lodge Charitable Gifts Can Be Made Online with Credit CardThe Grand Lodge website is now able to accept contributions to its four key charitable programs, with the donor using his credit card and receiving a confi rmation online.

The four charities that can receive contributions are:• Grand Lodge Charitable

Foundation• Grand Lodge Scholarship

Foundation• Special Olympics• Royal C. Scofi eld Charitable

Foundation (for Masonic Model Student Assistance)

To make a gift, go to the website, www.freemason.com and click on “Make a donation,” and the remain-der of the process will be explained.

May/June 2008 11

The Grand Lodge of Ohio has created the Royal C. Scofi eld Charity Endowment fund to support the Masonic Model Student Assistance Program in Ohio.

Most Worshipful Brother Scofi eld, Past Grand Master and nationally known for his promotion of Masonic education, left a gift in his estate, which has ignited this effort.

The goal of the new Endowment Fund will be to fi nance the Masonic Model Program. In the past year, Lodges have also contributed

I wish to honor the memory of M.W. Brother Royal C. Scofi eldBy contributing to the Royal C. Scofi eld Charity Endowment Fund

Supporting the Masonic Model Student Assistance Program in Ohio

_____________________________________________ ________________________ $____________________Name (Please Print) Lodge and Lodge # Amount of Gift

For gifts of $100 or more, the contributors will receive a specially designed certifi cate, suitable for framing, recognizing their generosity to the Royal C. Scofi eld Charity Endowment Fund.

Send to: Grand Lodge of Ohio, P.O. Box 629, Worthington, Ohio 43085-0629

Scofi eld Fund To Support Masonic Model Student Assistance Work

money to assist the Masonic Model effort and these will be added to the Endowment Fund. Only the interest from the fund may be used; the principle must remain invested.

A fund-raising campaign has been launched to give brethren and Lodges, who want to honor the memory of Most Worshipful Brother Scofi eld, an opportunity to contribute to the Charity Endowment Fund he created in his will. (See attached coupon for details.)

The Masonic Model Student Assistance Program is a gift from the Freemasons of Ohio to the schools in Ohio communities. The program consists of a three-day intensive training seminar that enables core teams of school faculty and staff members to effectively identify and refer at-risk youth. The professional trainers, manuals, overnight accommodations, and meals are all provided at no cost to participants. meals are all provided at no cost to

For its inaugural year, the Newark Lodge #97 Scholarship Fund awarded six $500 scholarships to deserving local students.

The fund was established several years ago through a bequest from the estate of Worshipful Brother F. Edwin Darnes, Past Master and longtime Secretary of Newark Lodge. Lodge members regularly add to this fund in contributions. Only the interest from the fund is used to pay for scholarships.

The fi rst scholarships were presented at a special luncheon hosted by the Lodge. presented at a special luncheon

First recipients of the Newark Lodge scholarship include, from left, Cameron Spinks, Andrew Fackler, Erika Kasper, and Blake Kasper. Recipients not pictured are Kayla Galbraith and Kate Addy.

Newark Lodge Creates Scholarships

12 May/June 2008

Still Swinging After All These Years

Stan Tatol attributes his 94 years of longevity to doing the right things. “I’ve led a good, clean life,” said Stan, a 65-year member of Dayton Lodge #147. “I’ve kept busy and active.”

Moving to Springfi eld Masonic Community has helped Stan and his wife, Alice, who is 92. Living in the retirement community keeps the Tatols near their granddaughter, Vicki Slaughter, an analyst for The Ohio Masonic Home’s Masonic Financial Assistance Program. They have lunch together every week.

“I’m comforted to know my grandparents are right here, just a few minutes away,” said Vicki.

Alice became familiar with the campus when she received physical therapy services there following surgery. Her positive experience made it easy when she and Stan decided to forego home maintenance chores and take advantage of the care-free lifestyle offered by the Springfi eld Masonic Community.

“Grandma has said many times these past few years at Springfi eld Masonic Community have been some of the best years of her life,” said Vicki.

“I haven’t had to cook a meal since I’ve been here,” Alice said. “And they wash the dishes too!” Stan and Alice celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in the campus community center with family and friends on April 26.

Stan takes particular pride in his golf game and his involvement in Masonry. He learned about the Masonic fraternity from his co-workers at Harrison Radiator, where he worked for 30 years. He respected their values and wanted to form a stronger association with them. His fraternal brothers helped him personally and professionally. “I always received wise counsel from my fellow Masons,” he said.

Ultimately, Stan went on to join Antioch Shrine. The family has always been proud of Stan’s work in

has earned 190 trophies and was inducted to the Dayton Amateur Golf Hall of Fame. When he moved to Springfi eld Masonic Community, Stan spearheaded the installation of an outdoor putting green, where he can be found most days. “If the weather is 50 degrees or above, I’ll be out there,” he said. He’s always eager to give pointers and lessons to his neighbors or anybody interested.

“I’ve been lucky,” Stan said. “I’ve had a good life. And now I’m in a place where I can continue to be ac-

the fraternity, and Vicki said she has fond memories of going to Shrine parades, circuses and other events.

Stan still loves golf and plays as much as he can. “I wouldn’t be here today if I hadn’t had the exercise I’ve gotten from golf,” said Stan. He started caddying and playing in 1933. Over the years, he played with golfi ng legends such as Ben Hogan and Sam Snead. He

tive and do the things I enjoy, with-out the headaches of maintaining a home. I have security in a peaceful environment, living in a community that operates on Masonic values. I’m proud to be here.” that operates on Masonic values. I’m

For more information about Springfi eld Masonic Community, call 937-525-3006 or 1-888-290-2664 or visit www.ohiomasonichome.org.

Independent living resident Stan Tatol, center, likes to spend time with others on the putting green he helped create on the grounds of Springfi eld Masonic Community.

May/June 2008 13

LIFE PLANNINGElder Care 101 – First Steps, Part 2

By Mike Magee, M.D

Gather Information to Start Your Caregiving JourneyCaregiving for an aging parent, spouse, domestic partner or close friend presents tough challenges. Whether you are dealing with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, recovery from a broken hip, or trying to fi gure out Medicare benefi ts, each caregiving situation is unique. Your loved one’s medical history, fi nancial resources, personality, relationships with potential caregivers, proximity to services and other factors all determine the best approach to take. Some seniors may have prepared in advance for declining health and have the necessary documents and services in place; others may have delayed taking action because they always believed they had more time. Whatever the circumstances, here is advice to caregivers:

• Take a deep breath. Clear your mind and relax. It may be diffi cult, but it will help sustain your spirits and prevent you from sinking under the weight of caregiving burdens.

• Make sure you know the senior’s date of birth and Social Security number. You will need this information to access many services.

• Collect information about medical providers.

• Call a family meeting. Try to get as many people as possible involved from the beginning. Early input from them will facilitate communication and decision-making down the line.

• Find out if the senior has the proper legal tools and documents in place.

• Find out about senior centers and adult day services in the

senior’s area.

• Start gathering information about assisted living facilities and other long-term care options.

• Recognize that loss of sight, hearing loss, memory loss, confusion, incontinence and depression are not normal aspects of aging. They could very well be the result of prescription drugs interactions or drug side effects.

• Talk to friends, neighbors, acquaintances -- anyone with experience in caring for an elder. You will learn that others have been there before and found their way through.

• Talk to your senior. Allow them as much independence as circumstances permit.

• Make a list of emergency numbers and family contact numbers. Family members should know how to locate legal, fi nancial and medical documents like durable powers of attorney, living wills, investment account statements and health insurance policies in case of emergency.

• If the senior is still living at home, make sure you and others in their inner circle have keys to the residence in case of emergency.

Mike Magee, M.D., is a recognized leader in the health care arena. He strives to help people understand the big picture of health and how our health care system works. Dr. Magee shares his views on these topics at www.HealthCommentary.com.

Grand Lodge Offi cers have performed dedication ceremonies on two new Lodge buildings. On March 31, they dedicated the newly acquired and renovated Masonic building of Paragon Lodge #788 in Millbury. A few years ago, three East Toledo Lodges merged to create Paragon and now they have a new building in which to meet. On April 9, the team of Grand Lodge Offi cers dedicated the newly built home of Fayette Lodge #107, in the downtown section of Washington Court House. Both new structures are evidence of Masonic energy and enthusiasm in their communities.

2 New Lodge Buildings Dedicated in Grand Lodge Ceremonies

Lady Linda’s List – Thanks and an InvitationBy Right Worshipful Brother Timothy B. Strawn, CAE, President, The OMH Benevolent Endowment Foundation

FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE

Lady Linda’s List is off to a great start…thanks to the efforts of many people, many districts, lodges and even a Rainbow Assembly (Mau-mee #30)! As of April 17, a total of more than $10,000 has been given in support of the program. At least one item has been sponsored for each campus and a number of gen-eral gifts have been made to Lady Linda’s List Fund. That fund will be used at the end of MWB Winnett’s term by Lady Linda to person-ally choose items from the list. An

updated version of the List can be found on the OMH web page (www.ohiomasonichome.org) by clicking on the Foundation tab and choosing Lady Linda’s List from the pull down menu.

Thus far, here are several highlights of the response: The 25th District was the fi rst District to step forward and sponsor a gift: the popcorn machine for Western Reserve Masonic Community. Collinwood Lodge #582, in the 22nd District, was the fi rst lodge

to sponsor a gift: a patio set, also for WRMC. And demonstrating that our youth groups are also supporting Lady Linda’s List, Maumee Assembly #30, Rainbow Girls, has sponsored the Wii for Browning Masonic Community on the condition that the members of the Assembly can go to Browning to teach the residents how to use it!

Sponsoring isn’t limited to districts, lodges or other organizations and individuals can also sponsor! There’s plenty of time left to participate. Visit the Web site or call the Foundation offi ce (888/248-2664), choose your item or make a general gift or make plans to attend Lady Linda’s Charity Dinner and Silent Auction, Saturday, September 13 at Aladdin Shrine Center in Columbus! On this evening, the baskets which District Deputy Grand Masters’ wives have been busily working on in the most creative ways will be auctioned. Information on page 16 in this issue of the Beacon provides ticket and contact information for this exciting, fun evening.

Thanks to all who have already supported or who will support this wonderful program which benefi ts all campuses of The Ohio Masonic Home. We sincerely appreciate all the ways in which the brethren, ladies, youth and friends of Ohio Freemasonry continue to make The Home a priority in their charitable giving.

To fi nd out how you can support The Ohio Masonic Home, please contact Right Worshipful Brother Tim Strawn, President of the Benevolent Endowment Foundation, toll free at 888-248-2664.

14 May/June 2008

Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett presented a special Grand Mas-ter’s Award to Delbert L. Johnson, of Grove City, during the Grand Master’s Reception in the 14th Masonic District in March.

Brother Johnson, a Mason for 52 years, is a member of Grove City Lodge, No. 689.

He began working at the Ohio Mason newspaper while in high school, and that’s where he met his wife-to-be, Kay, who was working there too. In 1964, Del and Kay took over management of the Ohio Mason Print-ing Company, and Del became Editor of the Ohio Mason newspaper.

Over the years, Brother Johnson has combined his love of Masonry with his profession. For many years, he has been the photographer for many Columbus area organizations and for the Grand Lodge of Ohio. In his operation of the Ohio Mason Printing Company, he has provided print-ing services to many Lodges, appendent organizations, and to the Grand Lodge.

“In his role as Editor of the Ohio Mason newspaper, he has promoted Masonic events and Masonic news in a way matched by no one else,” the Grand Master said.

Grand Master’s Award for Del Johnson

May/June 2008 15

The weather was drizzling but spirits were warm on March 15 as the Grand Lodge Offi cers, assisted by offi cers of Tippecanoe Lodge #174, dedicated a new sidewalk clock on the main street of Tipp City, while Masons and many residents watched. Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett pre-sided. Tippecanoe Lodge, the oldest organization in Tipp City, donated the clock and the plaque (at the left edge of the picture) in a well-planned ceremony. The Bicentennial fl ag was fl ying above. The Lodge hosted an open house for the public after the ceremony.

Sidewalk Clock Dedicated in Tipp City

Help your lodge, chapter, council, commandery or other body celebrate the bicentennial of Ohio Freemasonry and leave your mark for future generations. As a part of the bicentennial festivities, special time capsules representing all 25 Ohio Masonic Districts, Scottish Rite, York Rite and The Ohio Masonic Home will be buried in a special ceremony at this year’s Ohio Masonic Home Day on Sunday, September 7, in the cemetery on the grounds of Springfi eld Masonic Community.

This is an opportunity to show pride in your Masonic heritage with commemorative granite stones being created especially for this event. The stones range in size and price including:• 8”x4” gray or black granite for

$50 with 3 lines of text and 14 characters per line

• 12”x12” gray or black granite for $200 with 7 lines of text and 13 characters per line

• 24”x24” gray granite for $500 with 14 lines of text and 25 characters per line

Make Ohio Masonic History

• 24”x24” black granite for $700 with 14 lines of text and 25

characters per line.A limited number of stones

are available and orders will be processed on a fi rst-come, fi rst- served basis. Orders received after July 1 may not be included in the covering.

For more information or to obtain an order form, contact The Ohio Masonic Home’s Benevolent Endowment Foundation at 888/248-2664 or go to www.ohiomasonichome.org, click on the Foundation tab and then “Covering the Future.”

Ohio Masonic Home CEO Dave Bannerman and Benevolent Endowment Foundation President Tim Strawn display a time capsule to be buried in a special ceremony at Home Day, September 7 at Springfi eld Masonic Community.

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

May/June 2008 • VOLUME 15, ISSUE 3

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

In This Issue:Home Day to Celebrate Bicentennial.........Page 1Special Olympics Plans .............................Page 4Golf with a Sports Legend This Summer.....Page 5Ladies Invited to Grand Lodge...................Page 6

Mark your calendar now for Saturday, September 13. That’s the night of Lady Linda’s Charity Dinner and Silent Auction at Aladdin Shrine Center in Columbus. A wonderful dinner, program and silent auction, all for the benefi t of Lady Linda’s List, await all attendees. Social hour begins at 5:30 p.m., as does bidding for the auction items; dinner is at 6:30 p.m. Bidding ends when entertainment begins. Entertainment will be by the “Troubadour of Freemasonry,” Brother Howie Damron and his daughter, Karisa.

Linda Winnett, this year’s First Lady of Masonry in Ohio, is planning an exciting, enjoyable evening for this date. “With all the excitement the bicentennial has brought to the men, we wanted something in which the ladies could get involved this year and this is that event”, Linda said. “The District Deputies wives and, in a number of Districts, wives

of Worshipful Masters and other active brethren, have been hard at work creating and preparing baskets to be auctioned off on this special night. All of the baskets are very special thanks to the hard work of these great ladies. Some of them are very unusual and should bring not only great bids in the auction but a lot of comment, too!”

The benefi ciary of all this activity and proceeds of the evening is, of course, The Ohio Masonic Home and the items on Lady Linda’s List. Linda and the Grand Master, MWB Ron Winnett, have long been ardent supporters of The Home. So, when choosing her “project” for the year, it was an easy choice. “We love The Home and the very important care it provides for so many of our elderly brothers and their wives, widows and others. It’s important that we “give back” and continue the important Masonic tradition of taking care of our own.

To take part in this fun-fi lled night and support a very

worthwhile project, please contact: Worshipful Brother Brian Bolyard, 3285 Grasmere Avenue, Columbus, 43224; 614/267-5314 or LadyLinda2008@aol.com. Tickets are $28 each. Make checks payable to: 14th District Masonic Offi cers Association. No tickets will be mailed; all will be picked up the night of the event.

“We look forward to seeing you in September at Aladdin!”

“We look forward to seeing you

For information about Lady Linda’s List, please call The Home’s Foundation offi ce toll-free at 888/248-2664 or go to The Home’s Web site (www.ohiomasonichome.org), click on the Foundation tab and choose Lady Linda’s List from the pull-down menu.

Lady Linda’s Charity Dinner and Silent Auction