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

August/September 2005 VOLUME 12, ISSUE 3

arl H. Lindner, Jr., may be theembodiment of the Masonicdream—a good man madebetter by the teachings of

Freemasonry, who incorporated thoseteachings into his daily life, used them asthe rule and guide of his business dealings,and realized the success of hard work anda faith-based, principled life.

Ohio Masons are very proud of BrotherLindner, as a business leader, philanthropist,principle owner of the Cincinnati Redsbaseball team and Freemason.

He is also the embodiment of theAmerican dream.

Living the American DreamBorn in Dayton, Brother Lindner, at

the age of 21, along with his father Carl H.,Sr., brothers Robert and Richard, and hissister Dorothy, founded United DairyFarms in 1940. First day’s sales were $8.28.Many of Brother Lindner’s holdings havesince been consolidated under AmericanFinancial Group, a diversified financialholding company with more than $17 billionin assets, of which he is the founder andprincipal shareholder.

He has given freely of his time to thecommunity, and provided extensive serviceson major boards and committees for theCollege of Business Administration of theUniversity of Cincinnati, the Cincinnati FineArts Institute, the Cincinnati Symphony,Citizens for a Better Cincinnati andDrake Planetarium.

In addition, he served on theFounding Board of Directors of theKennedy Center and has been a devotedsupporter of Ford’s Theater inWashington, D.C.

Brother Lindner has beenrecognized by the Jewish community,having received the Jewish Institute ofReligious Faith Award, the InternationalPeace Award and the Man of the YearAward by United Jewish Appeal. Heis said to be the largest non-Jewishcontributor to Jewish causes in theUnited States.

The civic and humanitarian awardshe has received are numerous, as well ashonorary doctoral degrees from universities.

Giving Back to the BrotherhoodAt an early age, with encouragement and

guidance from his father, Brother Lindner,and his two brothers, were introduced toFreemasonry. Allthree brothers arecurrently 60-year-plus members ofMelrose Lodge #671in Norwood and 33ºScottish Rite Masons.

While BrotherLindner’s generosityto civic organizations and causes may haveattracted more public attention, he has beenvery generous, as well, within the Fraternity.He was significantly responsible for theScottish Rite Valley of Cincinnati’s

establishing its first Children’s LearningCenter to assist dyslexic children and herecently provided an endowment to establisha second Learning Center at NorwoodMasonic Temple.

He has also provided the downtownCincinnati Masonic Center with gifts to

support itsoperation andcompletion ofseveral capitalprojects. Severalyears ago, theLindner brothersestablished anendowment for

the Norwood Masonic Temple to providefor its continuing operation.

C

“What the public doesn’t know is that

we (Freemasonry) give over $2 million

a day to charitable causes. What other

organization can match that?”

Carl Lindner embodiesboth the Masonic and American

dreams

See LINDNER, continued on page 5.

2 Beacon August/September 2005

by RWB Timothy B. Strawn CAE, President, The Ohio Masonic Home Benevolent Endowment Foundation

June 6th—Masonic Home Day—whata great day it was! Fun, food, fellowship,an opportunity to visit our residents, tourthis beautiful campus and a Shrine parade—all made for a wonderful time for the1,600+ folks who attended. One other veryimportant event, the dedication and namingof our Community Center, capped a grandHome Day.

We dedicated the Center in honor ofIllustrious Brother Carl H. and EdythLindner as the result of a significant giftthey provided to the Foundation.Unfortunately, due to illness, Mrs. Lindnercould not be present but Illustrious BrotherLindner and his associate Brother JohnRogers were in attendance.

During the ceremony, the audience wasreminded of Illustrious Brother Lindner’sunequalled and unfailing support for ourfraternity as well as his outstanding businessleadership and civic benevolence. Whilemany accomplishments and recognitionswere recounted, on this day the overridingtheme was his love for and support ofFreemasonry in so many ways. This latest

gift to the Foundation is just one of theseveral ways he has shown his support forThe Home over the years. We are indeed

fortunate to count Illustrious BrotherLindner as our brother and one to whomwe can proudly point as an example worthyof emulation by others as a citizen, leader,man and Mason!

In his remarks, Illustrious BrotherLindner discussed his humble beginningsin business and the important role thefraternity has played in his life, the livesof his brothers—Illustrious BrothersRichard and Robert, and his business. Formore than 60 years, he and his brothershave carried into their daily lives the lessonsof our craft and the “counsel” from theirfather, Carl, Sr., about the importanceof those lessons. The genuine humilityof this renowned Brother was readilyapparent to all as he spoke of his life andhis many blessings.

We again thank Illustrious Brother andMrs. Lindner for this wonderful gift whichwill support our Masonic endowment foryears to come. It was truly a pleasure tohave you with us that day, Illustrious. Thankyou again for your consideration andsupport of The Home with this gift!

FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE

by Brother David Bannerman, CEO, The Ohio Masonic Home

“BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE…”

Have you ever heard that phrase? Manytimes my mother told me to do somethingbefore it was too late. As a third grader,I remember thinking I was smart whenI turned in my homework late, saying,“Better late than never,” to which Mrs.Denton replied, “Better never late!”

Years later I was in a training programoffered by IBM, teaching communityleaders how to be better managers. Atthe end of the week, we were told, “Ifyou have something to say to someone, tellthem “before it’s too late.” The conceptwas, don’t let a meaningful conversationgo unsaid.

On the way back from the IBMconference, I had intended to visit my uncleLou. He had cancer and was not doingwell. Instead I was excited about what Ihad learned, so I hurried home, got back

to work and never had that conversationwith him. He died a few months later.

My father told me he never wanted toretire. He loved meeting and helpingpeople. He worked until he was 70. Afterhe retired, he said he wished he had retiredsooner, because he could be with friendsand do more fun things. He lived justanother few short years, with increasingdisability and pain until he died at age 79.

Moving to Masonic Retirement Villagein Springfield, Browning MasonicCommunity in Waterville or WesternReserve Masonic Community in Medinashould get the same attention you giveto planning a major life change. If youintend to live in a retirement community,make the call for an appointment today.If you wait, you may not be able to livewell with those you love because you waited

too long.Don’t wait to visit one of our

communities. As one of the youngestresidents on campus, I can say you will likeliving among neighbors who have similarvalues and interests. Try us, “before it’stoo late.”

Brother Dave Bannerman visits with MasonicRetirement Village resident and longtimeOhio Masonic Home photographer JohnBryan at a resident council meeting.

RWB Tim Strawn (right) gave tribute toIllustrious Brother Carl Lindner (left) at MasonicHome Day. Brother Lindner has supportedthe Home over the years was by providing amatching gift program for members of hisLodge (Melrose #671) who wanted to supportthe Home via the One Grand Club.

N E O F T H E L A RG E S T C O M M E RC I A L

and industrial constructioncontractors in the nation has been true toMasonic teachings.

William B. Burgett, owner of KokosingConstruction Company, received theCommunity Service Award in the 19thMasonic District in May from Grand MasterJim S. Deyo.

Brother Burgett, a member of ThrallLodge #170 since 1959, told the audiencethat when he was five-years-old, his parentsgave him a set of toy tools, one of whichwas a builder’s square.

After 46 years of being a Mason, he said,he sees the value of that square and what ithas meant throughout his life, both as anoperative working tool and as a symbol ofbeing honest in all dealings with others.In making the presentation, Most WorshipfulBrother Deyo noted that this is a man of“impeccable character.”

Brother Burgettstarted KokosingConstruction in1951 with basicallya pick and a shovel.Kokosing has growninto a company thatdoes commercialand industrialconstruction, sewer and water line work,treatment plants, marine construction,bridges and concrete and asphalt paving.

The company started with two people,but has more than 2,000 employees today.The May 2004 issue of an engineeringnews record magazine ranked Kokosing

Construction as the 65thlargest contractor in theUnited States.

“My strengths,” BrotherBurgett said, “are my wife,the solid foundation myparents gave me, my faith,and the three D’s: desire toaccomplish whatever I setout to do, determination todo top-quality work, anddiscipline, which is the mostdifficult of the D’s. Life hastrade-offs. Everything has aprice. Discipline keeps you inline with the goals and valuesyou have established to accomplish whatyou set out to do.”

His community service record is verylengthy for Fredericktown and Knox County.During 1994-95, he served on theFredericktown Community Library

Committee,where hespearheadedthe constructionof a new library.It was builtby volunteerlabor, with theexception of

brick laying, interior wall finish, andinstallation of heating and air conditioning.

They raised the library from thefoundation to the roof in one day, includingwindows, plywood and paper on 75 percentof the roof. More than 300 people helpedthat day, including church and community

members, and many employees of Kokosing.On the day after Brother Burgett received

his award in May from the Grand Master,he headed another one-day building project,new offices for Hospice of Knox County.Kokosing gathered 150 volunteers, workingfrom dawn to dusk, to complete the entireskeleton of the building. The action wascovered extensively in The ColumbusDispatch.

Brother Burgett has also been activein the Knox County Area DevelopmentCommittee, the United Way of KnoxCounty and the Waterford UnitedMethodist Church.

He and his wife Shirley of 55 years,Shirley, have five children, 14 grandchildrenand two great-grandchildren.

A book entitled “Wild West Characters”by Dale Pierce, currently Lodge EducationOfficer of New Philadelphia Lodge #177,was published by Gold West Publishers.

The book provides short biographicalsketches of many “characters,” some whosenames are familiar, and some not. The readerquickly gains a unique insight of the roughand tumble lifestyle of the early westerngrowth of our nation, through the vivid

writing of Brother Pierce.Quite a few of the characters in the books

are Masons and reference is made to themin the writing. Among those Masons in thebook are Kit Carson, Tom Mix, Albert Pike,and Zeb Pike.

For more information or to order thebook, check the publisher’s Web site:www.goldenwestpublishers.com

3Beacon August/September 2005

William Burgett squares his work as operative, speculative Mason

William Burgett, center, with his wife Shirley,receives Community Service Award from GrandMaster Jim S. Deyo.

‘Wild West Characters’ book writtenby Ohio Mason

The three D’s: desire to accomplish

whatever I set out to do, determination

to do top-quality work, and discipline,

which is the most difficult of the D’s.

O

is youthful energy is contagious.He is an avid Toledo Mud Hensfan, catching as many baseball

games as he can. He dines with a group ofhis fellow Browning Masonic Communityresidents at different restaurants everymonth. He makes crafts from his woodshop.He enjoys games of Euchre or Scrabble.He’s active in his Masonic lodge. Hesupports the little league baseball teamsponsored by his lodge by attending theirgames. He’s leading a fundraising effortto install a putting green at Browning.

He is Sir Knight Henry Hanzl.“We do a lot of different things together

here,” Henry says of his brethren atBrowning. “The Activities Departmentoffers a lot of choices. All you have to dois sign up!”

Henry seems to sign up for just abouteverything. “Activities give us all anopportunity to get to know one anotherbetter,” Henry said. “This is my time. Iwant to enjoy it.”

Henry enjoys working in the woodshopat this garden villa. “I’m into crafts,” hesaid modestly. In fact, Henry makes tables,chairs, dressers, bookcases, cabinets, plaquesand just about anything else imaginable.His woodwork has earned awards instatewide competition.

Some of his favorite wooden creationsare Masonic symbols. Henry estimateshe’s made 30,000 Masonic symbols overthe past 20 years. He gives them to newMaster Masons.

Henry, a 52-year Mason, originally joined

W.K. Ricksecker Lodge #606. He laterwas a charter member of Solon Lodge #757.When he moved to Browning 12 yearsago, he became a member of WakemanLodge #522, which meets on theBrowning campus. He is a Past Master ofWakeman Lodge. He is also a memberof the Order of Eastern Star and of theHigh-Twelve Club.

“I live Masonry,” Worshipful BrotherHanzl said. “Masons look out for the welfareof others—not just fellow Masons.”

Henry is proud of the charitable workdone by Masons everywhere. “I don’t knowwhat more important thing I could do thanto help my fellow man,” he said.

He is also proud of Browning MasonicCommunity. “It’s a wonderful place,” Henrysaid. “You can have the serenity everyoneis looking for, along with all the activitiesyou could want.”

Henry particularly likes his garden villahome. “I love having my own place,” hesaid. “I have a nice big kitchen, all theappliances, plenty of cabinets, a big pantry,a skylight in the living room, two bedrooms,a nice big bath, a huge closet in the masterbedroom and a big garage.”

He also appreciates not having to worryabout maintaining his home. “The Browningstaff takes care of all those difficult and time-consuming chores,” he said. “I don’t haveto mow the grass or shovel snow either. I’mquite pleased.”

For information regarding Browning MasonicCommunity in Waterville, call 866/878-4055.

Getting

Every DayS T R O N G E R

Brother Henry Hanzlof Browning MasonicCommunity enjoys

using his skillsto make woodenMasonic symbols.“The wood shop

isn’t just for men,”he said. “Women

are welcome too.”

BROWNING MASONIC COMMUNITY

Beacon August/September 20054

Masonic Senior Services now serving Northeast OhioThe continuing expansion of Masonic Senior

Services has reached northeast Ohio, providingassistance for older Masonic adults and their families.

Kimberly Howitt has joined Masonic SeniorServices as Service Coordinator in Cleveland andNortheast Ohio. Howitt will work to identifycommunity-based services that allow older OhioMasons to remain in their homes.

Masonic Senior Services provides assistance inplanning for long-term care and clarifies Medicareand Medicaid issues.

Howitt holds a bachelor’s degree in Gerontologyfrom Bowling Green State University and is pursuing

H

Kimberly Howitt

a master’s degree in health care from Cleveland StateUniversity. She previously worked as Recruitment andRetention Specialist for Eliza Jennings Senior CareNetwork in Lakewood. She also worked at LutheranHome Society in Toledo and Oakridge Nursing Homein Westlake.

Howitt joins Senior Service Coordinators AmyColley of Cincinnati, Liz Witter of Toledo and BrotherRodney Skinner of Springfield. Each of thecoordinators is available to speak at lodge functionsregarding aging issues. Masons who would like moreinformation about Masonic Senior Services may call888/286-0010.

5Beacon August/September 2005

Michael D. Cecil, left, chairman of the Grand Lodge SpecialOlympics Committee, and Grand Master Deyo, pose withtwo Special Olympics athletes from Medina County.

$125,000 given to Ohio Special Olympics

embers of Cincinnati-Lafayette Lodge #483 andtheir wives celebrated the 180th anniversary of

the dramatic 1825 visit by the Marquis de Lafayetteto the city, by donning early 19th century customs andgoing on a river cruise.

Lafayette, born in France in 1757, came to theAmerican colonies to fight in the Revolutionary Warin 1777. He became a close friend of General GeorgeWashington and a major general in the ContinentalArmy. He came back to the United States in 1824 atthe urging of President John Quincy Adams to tourthe country.

During the latter part of his tour in 1825, he traveledup the Ohio River to Cincinnati, crossing from Kentuckyto Ohio on a special barge built for the event.

In Cincinnati, he was greeted with a parade, fireworksand a crowd of several thousand people.

One of his stops was the newly formed MasonicLodge bearing his name. Lafayette was a Mason,becoming a member in France while he was ayoung man.

Each year, Cincinnati-Lafayette Lodge enjoys adinner cruise with the brethren and their ladies, andused the dress of the period this year to make theevent special.

The Lodge visited in 1825 was Lafayette Lodge#81. Cincinnati Lodge #133 and Walnut Hills Lodge#483 were daughter Lodges of Lafayette Lodge.Eventually, Cincinnati and Walnut Hills Lodge merged,and in 1994, Lafayette Lodge merged with them, takingthe name of two Lodges and the number of the other.

19th century costumes wornto celebrate anniversary

M

An accompanying story describes Brother Lindner’s contributionsto the Ohio Masonic Home (page 2).

Brother Lindner is most proud of his involvement in bringing togetherthe leaders of the Grand Lodge of Ohio and the Prince Hall GrandLodge of Ohio in 1995, resulting in a joint recognition of each other.This first meeting led to many joint meetings in the years since.

Masonic Pride“I have been a Mason for over 60 years and I believe Masonry’s

proudest moment came at that historic meeting 10 years ago here inCincinnati,” Brother Lindner said.

“We broke ground that day when we realized that we believed in thesame things, had similar purposes and could do even greater work if weall cooperated.”

Honors from the Fraternity for Brother Lindner have also beenextensive. A few notable examples include the Killian H. VanRensselaerGold Medal from the Valley of Cincinnati and the Gourgas Medal fromthe Scottish Rite’s Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.

Brother Lindner’s pride in Freemasonry is strong.“The community is so much better because of Freemasonry,” he said.

“The work with the children through the Learning Centers for dyslexiaand the hospitals for treating burns and healing broken bones are themore public venues for our charitable work. What the public doesn’tknow is that we give over $2 million a day to charitable causes. Whatother organization can match that?”

Surrounded by Grand Lodge Officers, Grand Master Jim S. Deyo receivesa special plaque from the Ohio Special Olympics for the outstanding workthe Ohio Masons have provided to the effort over the years. The presentationcame after the Grand Master presented a check for $125,000 to helpsupport the Special Olympics athletes in the annual summer games.

Unveiling the sign thatannounces The OMHCommunity Center’s newname are: Illustrious BrotherCarl H. Lindner, 33º; BrotherW. David Bannerman, CEO,OMH; Right WorshipfulBrother Timothy B. Strawn,President, OMH Foundation;Most Excellent CompanionDale G. Ray, Jr., Chairman,OMH Board of Trustees.

Lindner (continued from page 1)

6 Beacon August/September 2005

S A YOUNG MAN GROWING UPin a small rural community, I always

enjoyed the Bob Hope radioshows. That was before we had television!I was always very curious as to why Bob’stheme song was “THANKS FOR THEMEMORIES.”

Each of you having given me theopportunity to serve as your Grand Masterthis year, have provided me a clear under-standing of why it was so important forBob Hope to say, “THANKS FOR THEMEMORIES.”

Fulfilling the Impossible DreamWe have been taught throughout life to

“DREAM THE IMPOSSIBLE” and thenmake it become reality.

When I knocked and you opened thedoor to me just 44 years ago it would havebeen impossible for this (then a young manof twenty-three) to have dreamed all of thedreams that have become reality for mewithin your Masonic Fraternity. At the timethat I was accepted into lodge, I had but

one clear dream: to become the very bestthat I could be and become a part of thecommunity which consisted of so manymen who on a daily basis displayed truecompassion for their fellow man. They wereindeed, the Masons of Mt. Sterling, Ohio.It seems like only yesterday in my Masoniccareer. Time has swiftly passed throughthe hour glass of human life and bringsme to the end of another wonderfulMasonic adventure.

It is now time to close another chapterof the Masonic Book and prepare ourselves

for the future. To closethe chapter withoutsaying, “THANKSFOR THEMEMORIES,” wouldbe impossible for anyGrand Master.

Upon myelection last October,to serve as your GrandMaster, you provideda new repertory ofdreams for this GrandMaster. I have traveledfrom the East Coastto the West Coast andfrom the North to theSouth of these UnitedStates and even into

Canada, with but one goal on each of thesejourneys: to make sure Ohio maintains itsstature as a dominant force in Freemasonry.

Each of these journeys developed newfriendships that produced memories to befiled within the archives of my Masonic life.While traveling upon this frontier, it waseven more important to travel the frontierof the many highways within Ohio thattakes one through the deep valleys andacross the interstates of this great state to

visits with our many brethren and theirladies in both fraternal and social meetings.To witness the enthusiasm within ourfraternity at these special events gives oneassurance that our fraternity has a definiteplace within our lives and our communities.

Thanks

A

for the memoriesby Jim S. Deyo, Grand Master

A surprise birthday cake greeted Most Worshipful Brother Jim S.Deyo, on his visit to the 21st Masonic District Reception in Akron.The crowd watches as he blows out the candles.

Grand Master Jim S. Deyo, and his wife Margie,enjoy a happy moment while showing off thewestern outfits they wore to a theme dinnerduring the Conference of Grand Masters lastFebruary in Calgary, Alberta.

7Beacon August/September 2005

Grand Master Jim S. Deyo, right, discussesissues in Freemasonry with Jeffrey B. Hodgdon,Grand Master of Massachusetts.

Grand Master Jim S. Deyo and wife Margiepose in their summer formal wear.

An Excellence in Youth Award is presentedto Timothy Simpson in Akron by GrandMaster Deyo.

One-Day Class Success The Grand Master’s Class, which wasmade possible through your support, tookyour Grand Master to even new heights ashe traveled across the blue skies lookingdown upon the deep valleys, green meadows,tilled fields, lakes and streams of Ohio, allpart of a plan to visit the many sites of theGrand Master’s Classes.

Thank you for providing such awonderful experience for 2,984 new Masonsas they began their search for more light intheir Masonic journey in life.

At one location, there was a limousinecomplete with a red carpet entrance and ajar of grey poupon greeting your GrandMaster, while at another, a sheriff ’s escortto the Masonic Center. At every locationthere was always a driver awaiting the arrivalof your Grand Master. We only missed onerunway in our seven landings and had toapproach a second time for a safe landing.

When we left the Akron-Canton Airport,the beauty of the sun just beginning to setin the West left no doubt God’s light hadshined down upon us. It was obvious thatthe Masons of Ohio completed one moresuccessful day in Masonic History. The realbeauty came in the darkness of the eveningwhen the pilot, Worshipful Brother DanHrinko turned on the runway lights forlanding at Grimes Airport in Urbana, Ohio,and we pushed the aircraft into its hanger.Well done. Our work for the day had ended.Thank you, brethren, for all of yourdedication to make this day a success.

Your Boundless GenerosityWhen called upon to act with charity,

you have responded generously within yourcommunities while also recognizing theneed to support our Ohio Masonic Homes,Charitable Foundation, the ScholarshipFoundation and Special Olympics.

Congratulations! This year you received avery special award at Special Olympics bybeing recognized as HONORARY COACHOF THE YEAR by the Special OlympicsCommittee.

This award is rarely given to a group anddemonstrates the special position each ofyou represent in your dedication to thisspecial project.

As I write this final message as yourGrand Master, you have flooded the GrandLodge Office with mail from our most recentappeal to you for contributions to theCharitable Foundation. Again, thank youfor your generous charitable support.

A Final Thank YouAs I close this final message to you as a

Grand Lodge Officer and as your GrandMaster, I say thank you for the opportunitiesthat you have given to me. You have certainlyleft me better and more internally enrichedthan when I came into the fraternity. Afterall, it is the internal and not the externalqualifications that should enrich out lives.

When you look at a map of Ohio andlocate a small dot on the map that saysChenoweth, remember that you have filleda house at that dot where Margie and Ireside with many special memories.

Jimmy Durante always concluded hisradio show with, “Good Night Mrs.Calabash wherever you are,” I say to eachof you, the Masons of Ohio, goodbyewherever you are. Thank you, for this “ONEMOMENT IN TIME.”

ABOVE: Grand Master delivers his messageat a Grand Master’s Reception in the 5thMasonic District, in Defiance.

LEFT: Grand Master displays a grim face ashe studies his notes during a quiet momentbefore his speech is introduced.

8 Beacon August/September 2005

Members of the 13th and 19thMasonic Districts held their secondannual combined summer picnic inJune in Somerset, and it was anothervery successful, well-attended event.The food was good and plentiful, thefellowship was outstanding, and thepicnic featured a tug-of-war contestbetween the two districts.

Second annual joint picnic of 13th, 19th Districts very successful

Wooster Lodge to buildDaniel Iceman Athletic Fields

Ebenezer Lodge #33 in Wooster has launched an excitingcommunity program that will bear the name of Past Grand MasterDaniel F. Iceman, a member of the Lodge.

Wooster City Council in May unanimously accepted the Lodgeproposal to construct three new softball fields at the city’s FreelanderPark, to be the home of the Wooster Summer Girls Fast Pitch League.Construction will start fall 2005 and be ready for use spring 2007.

Ebenezer Lodge will be responsible for financing the project, butit will include assistance and contribution from Masons across Ohio.

The project will include foul line fencing, portable outfield fences,drainage, bleachers, benches, infields, bases, mounds and home plates.

The athletic complex will be called “The Daniel F. Iceman MasonicFields.”

Most Worshipful Brother Iceman is the patriarch of Freemasonryin the Wooster and the 20th Masonic District area. He served asGrand Master of the Grand Lodge in 1978-79.

10-year anniversary of Prince HallRecognition slated in Cincinnati

A decade has past since the Grand Lodge of Ohio and the PrinceHall Grand Lodge of Ohio jointly agreed to recognize each other.

This historic event will be honored at the 3rd Annual BrotherhoodNight in Cincinnati on Saturday, November 19.

Past Grand Master James E. Olmstead, along with Past GrandMaster Steven Reece of Prince Hall, and Carl H. Lindner, of MelroseLodge #671, will be honored for their leading roles in the recognition.

Brotherhood Night will be held in the Cincinnati Masonic Center,with recognition of dignitaries at 5 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m. andthe program at 8 p.m. Jim Breech, kicker for the Cincinnati BengalsFootball Team, will be the guest speaker.

Adult tickets are $35 each and $15 for youth under 18. For moreinformation or to order tickets, contact David Fine, chairman of theevent, at 513/260-9234.

All proceeds will go to help four Masonic charities: The ShrineBurns Hospital, the Royal Arch Masons Adopt American program,the Scottish Rite Learning Centers and the Prince Hall ScholarshipFund.

Ohio DeMolay received one of only six Grand Master’s EagleAwards presented this year at the annual meeting of theInternational Supreme Council of DeMolay in Orlando. OhioExecutive Officer Jeff Shaw, center, holds the distinguishedaward, honoring the state for its outstanding new membershipperformance. DeMolays, pictured, from left, are Joe Rehnert,State Scribe; Eddie Jones, State Senior Councilor; ChrisGrinstead, State Master Councilor; and Alex D’Ettore, StateJunior Councilor.

Ohio wins top NationalDeMolay Award

Past Grand Masters DouglasO. Brenneman, left, andJack L. Allen, right, get akick out of raising somemoney for a charitablefund to help a local brother.Each started by puttingin some money so theycould cut off the legs ofthe pants of Dennis R.Kessler, center, DistrictDeputy Grand Master ofthe 13th Masonic District.Many others followed andmore than $300 was raised.The action took place atthe joint picnic of the 19thand 13th Masonic Districts.

Cutting off pant legs engineeredby Past Grand Masters

9Beacon August/September 2005

hen Mary Hayes moved two yearsago into her apartment at Iredell

Gardens on the grounds of The OhioMasonic Home, she was surprised to findher former Old Mill Road neighbors nowlived right across the hall. Dick and LaVidaCampbell, Mary’s neighbors 28 years prior,were her neighbors once again.

Even before she was reunited with herneighbors, Mary knew she would feel athome at The Ohio Masonic Home. Afterall, she had worked as a nurse at The Homefor 15 years. She soon learned that some ofher other new neighbors were former co-workers Helen Westfall, Emma Potter andRoxy Stewart.

Mary appreciates the friendship of herfellow residents. “Everyone is very friendly,”she said. “If you want privacy, just shut yourdoor. But if you want company, all you haveto do is open your door.”

Having lived on 10 wooded acres nearby,Mary understands people’s reluctance tomove to a retirement community.

“Owning and maintaining a home wasa lot of work,” she said. “And I was lonely.”

As a nurse, Mary is impressed with the

care provided at Masonic Health Care.“I’ve seen a lot of nursing facilities,”

she said. “The nursing care here is far betterthan any I’ve seen.”

She also appreciates the peace of mindThe Home offers. “I like the security here,”Mary said. “There are guards patrolling thegrounds, a sprinkler system and emergencyalert buttons. I like that.”

Mary appreciates all the other amenities.“The dining room is lovely and I don’t

have to worry about cooking meals,” shesaid. “The housekeeping is tremendous.Everything is spic and span.”

Relieved of household chores, Maryenjoys volunteering all over campus andat the local animal shelter. And she likestaking care of residents’ pets while theowners vacation.

“I love animals,” she said. “And I like

to help people. That’s what I do.”She drives her neighbors to the bank and

other errands, participates in the campusexercise program and walks every night afterdinner with fellow resident Don Potter.

“We need to work our arms and legs sowe can continue to be active,” she said.

Mary said she always knew she wouldlive at The Home.

“I never looked anywhere else,” she said.“We’re a Masonic family. Masons helppeople. It is a privilege to be a Mason anda privilege to live here. It’s all about helpingpeople. I’m so thankful I moved here. Everyresident is like a brother or sister. I woulddo it all over again.”

MASONIC RETIREMENT VILLAGE

Hi,Neighbor!

For information regarding Masonic RetirementVillage in Springfield, call 888/290-2664.

Residents and visitors enjoyed a variety ofactivities at Browning Masonic Community’sannual Waterville “Cruise-In” including a carshow, farmer’s market, flea market, children’sgames, music, food and campus tours.

The delicious grilled hamburgers and hotdogs were served by Rubicon Lodge #237.Proceeds from the event support SpecialOlympics.

Cruise-In drawscrowd to Browning

LEFT: BMC President Brother David Subleskitook a spin around campus in The Home’smini-grand prix car. RIGHT: Children enjoyedbouncing around in the inflatable playground.

W

Mary Hayes takes care of vacationingneighbors’ pets but keeps only stuffedanimals for herself. “I’m too busy to betied down with a pet,” she said.

10 Beacon August/September 2005

e grew up in the shadow of TheOhio Masonic Home. As a youth,

he watched as The Home’s water tower wasbuilt. Years later, he worked as a contractorto restore portions of The Home’s BushnellHall. Now, he is a resident of The Home’sPathways Center for Alzheimer’s care.

“It feels like home,” Chuck Nathanielsaid. “I feel like I’ve always been part ofThe Ohio Masonic Home.”

Chuck is known to many in theSpringfield community as the formerowner/operator of Chuck’s Rockin’ Ranch,a nightclub on Columbus Avenue. Chuckleft the construction business when theopportunity to run the nightclub arose.

“It was a grand time,” Chuck said ofthe nightclub business, which featured livecountry and western music. “We had pigroasts, wedding receptions, car shows—all kinds of different activities that peopleenjoyed.”

Chuck said he still bumps into formerpatrons when he’s out and around inSpringfield and enjoys reconnectingwith them.

His appreciation for the outdoors can

be nurtured at The Ohio Masonic Home.“The campus is beautiful,” he said. “I loveto get outside and admire the grounds here.”

Chuck moved to the Pathways Centernearly two years ago when he became unableto manage his own care due to the onset ofParkinson’s Disease.

“He needed more assistance than wecould get for him at home,” said SandyWarren, Chuck’s sister.

While the Pathways staff makes sureChuck is getting the care he needs, theyalso enable him to be as active as he can be.

Chuck is impressed with the support hegets from the staff.

“The people here at The Home makesure everything is right,” Chuck said. “Theyreally live up to their reputation of providingquality care.”

As one who coordinated fun activitiesfor the patrons of his nightclub, Chuck

particularly enjoys the activities providedfor residents by the staff of The OhioMasonic Home.

“Terri Algeo does a great job ofcoordinating fun and interesting activitiesfor us,” he said. “It’s very gratifying.”

Although he is not a Mason, Chuckappreciates the Masonic values upon whichThe Ohio Masonic Home operates.

“I believe a Mason is someone of highmoral character,” he said. “Throughout mylife, I have found that to be true.”

Those Masonic principles are part ofthe reason Chuck stays nears his roots atThe Home.

“If I had to do it all over again,” he said,“I would come here.”

s •w •e •e •t

MASONIC HEALTH CARE

HOME

H

Applications for the Ohio Masonic HomeScholarship Program will be acceptedthrough April 1, 2006, for the 2006-2007academic year.

The scholarship is exclusively fororphaned children of Ohio Masons.

The application form may be downloadedfrom The Home’s Web site atwww.ohiomasonichome.org or, requested

by writing to: The Ohio Masonic HomeScholarship Program, P.O. Box 120,Springfield, OH 45501.

Each scholarship award will be for oneacademic year and may not exceed $3,000or the cost of tuition.

Applicants must be the natural oradopted son or daughter of a deceasedMason who, at the time of his death, had

achieved the degree of Entered Apprentice,Fellowcraft or Master Mason and who wasin good standing with the Grand Lodge ofOhio, F.&A.M. Please refer to applicationcriteria for eligibility.

If you have any questions regarding TheHome’s Scholarship Program, please contactOMH Chief Financial Officer David R. Stacyat 937/525-3032.

Ohio Masonic Home Scholarship offered

HOME

For information regarding Pathways Center forAlzheimer’s Care, contact Masonic Health Carein Springfield at 888/243-2664.

Chuck Nathaniel at PathwaysCenter for Alzheimer’s Careenjoys getting outdoors forwalks with his sister, Sandra.“I can get out and do anythingI want to do,” he said.

11Beacon August/September 2005

Thank You ForYour GenerosityWe offer our grateful appreciationto the estates, individuals, groupsor other Masonic bodies who havesupported The Ohio Masonic Homewith donations given betweenApril 1 and June 30, 2005.

$10,000 +

Clinton W. BeachNeva BriningC. E. BristerRichard C. DavisLeroy L. GlenseyRichard B. InghamWilliam M. & Elma P. SelbyWebster SturdivantEdward E. TrecheterIrene M. WardWilliam D. Welch

$2,000 +

Harry BerlineDallas W. & Helen B. BowyerLincoln L. CarltonOrlando W. DavisGrand Court Order of AmaranthDennis Hinkle

In Memory of Marvin PenceRonald L. & Pamela M. Krebehenne

In Memory of Marvin PenceMillennium Lodge #779, F&AMCharles E. MooreGeorge K. MossBetty OberleKevin M. & Kimberly S. Pence

In Memory of Marvin PenceNorman L. PenceStephen M. & Terri L. Pence

In Memory of Marvin PenceVivian H. SchulzeDorothy T. & Myron T. SeifertHoward M. SheelerBilly R. & Mary M. Smoot

In Memory of Marvin PenceValley of Dayton, AASR

$1,000 +

2nd District Officers AssociationEldon E. ElderEly Lodge #424, F&AMHumboldt Lodge #476, F&AMLyndhurst Lodge #508, F&AMNiles-McKinley Lodge #794, F&AMParagon Lodge #788, F&AMQueen City Lodge #559, F&AMDonald C. StewartCyril and Dorothy Veinott Memorial

Fund and Cyril and June Veinott Memorial Fund

it is streaming down from theheavens, a piano emanates “God BlessAmerica” from on high in Western ReserveMasonic Community (WRMC). Althoughthe music is heavenly, it comes fromWRMC resident Bob Stelts playing thepiano on the second-floor atrium.

“I’m just an average player, but I playwith feeling,” Bob said modestly. “Butpeople like it.”

The piano has been part of Bob’s lifesince he was 12. Although he hasperiodically been taken away from the pianoby the military, work, family obligationsand health concerns, he has always returned.

“It’s amazing that he has picked it upagain,” said Bob’s wife, Irene. “It had beenyears since he’s had time to play.”

“I love music,” Bob said. “If God givesyou some ability, you should use it.”

“It really attracts people,” said Bob’swife, Irene. “When he plays, they come.”

Bob plays at resident talent shows andregularly entertains residents, staff andvisitors. Free from the hassles of owning ahome, Bob appreciates the freedom atWRMC to pursue his passion.

“The ongoing repairs and taxes got tobe too much for us,” Bob said. “There’sa lot of work and expense in maintaininga home. We could no longer manage it.”

Irene said their daughter and daughter-in-law looked throughout Northeast Ohiofor a suitable retirement community.

Ultimately, they recommended WRMC. “It’s very inviting,” Irene said. “The

pricing is good and the apartments arelarger than most. They clean for us. Thegrounds are well-kept. There’s lots ofshopping nearby. And Medina is a nicecommunity.”

“And the food is good,” Bob said.“They feed us well!”

“They keep us active and happy,” Irenesaid. “You can go on trips or stay here andwork on crafts like painting or woodcarving.You can be busy all the time if you want.”

Although Bob is not a Mason, heappreciates the values of a Masonicorganization.

“I admire Masons and what they do,”he said. “We knew Masonry has a goodreligious foundation. That is importantto us.”

Also important to them is the financialstability of The Ohio Masonic Home. “Thisis an endowed facility,” Irene said. “Weknow we’ll be in good hands for the restof our lives.”

That peace of mind allows Bob to enjoythe piano.

“It’s fun for me and the other residentsenjoy it,” Bob said. “Residents tell me,‘You keep on playing.’”

For information regarding Western ReserveMasonic Community in Medina, call866/433-1514.

WESTERN RESERVE MASONIC COMMUNITY

the piano manAs if

When he’s not entertaining his wifeand neighbors with the piano atWestern Reserve Masonic Community,Bob Stelts likes to talk sports with theguys. “I’m an Indians fan,” he said.

“But they make me mad sometimes.”

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

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

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

Non-Profit Org.

U.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 5405

Columbus, OH

IN THIS ISSUE…Carl Lindner embodies Masonicand American dreams........................................PAGE 1

Burgett receives CommunityService award....................................................PAGE 3

Masonic Senior Services expansion....................PAGE 4

Grand Master –Thanks for the Memories...............................PAGE 6-7

OMH Scholarship offered................................PAGE 10

August/September 2005 Beacon

by Illustrious Brother Owen Johnson, 33º, Medical Director, United HealthCare

PLANNING AHEAD

llustrious Brother OwenJohnson, 33º, M.D., is

concerned about Baby Boomers.“As a group, they have not

prepared for retirement,” hesaid. “This puts their familiesin poor situations.”

Owen’s concern is part ofhis motivation for becoming

a member of The Ohio Masonic HomeBoard of Trustees, where he serves on theMembership Committee and chair of theNominating Committee.

“At The Ohio Masonic Home, yourchildren don’t have to worry. You knowyou’ll be taken care of regardless of whatmay happen.”

Owen is Medical Director for UnitedHealthcare in Columbus.

“I went into medicine to help people,”he said. His involvement on The OhioMasonic Home Board of Trustees providesan opportunity to help Masons.

“No other retirement community canoffer the commaradery and fellowship thatcomes with Freemasonry,” he said. “Thatis a benefit you cannot buy.”

Owen is a 33rd degree Mason andmember of University Lodge #631 andValley of Columbus, Scottish Rite, as wellas a member of Commandery and Council

York Rite bodies. He is Past Thrice PotentMaster of Enoch Lodge of Perfection in theValley of Columbus.

“The eternal friendships I have developedthrough my Masonic affiliation have beenvery rewarding,” he said. “I have met peopleI never would have otherwise met. Whenyou see someone with a Masonic pin orring, you feel an immediate bond.”

Owen is pleased that The Ohio MasonicHome continues to adjust to the needsof Masons.

“The staff and Board of The OhioMasonic Home is reassessing the needs ofour brethren,” he said. “We’re finding thatBaby Boomers want to stay in their homes.In order to be responsive to their desires,we need to supply care in their currentenvironment. This is our goal with MasonicSenior Services.”

Masonic Senior Services providesassistance in planning for long-term careand clarifies Medicare and Medicaid issues,allowing many Ohio Masons to continueliving in their own homes with relativeindependence.

However, Illustrious Brother Johnsonemphasizes that Baby Boomers need to startthinking about their futures.

“Retirement living requires planning,”he said. “Getting older isn’t easy.”

I

The Beacon isPublished Bi-MonthlyPlease report all changes of address to yourLodge Secretary, who, in turn, will notify theGrand Secretary, who maintains the databasethat produces The BEACON mailing labels.

The Ohio Masonic Home includes MasonicHealth Care, Inc.; Masonic Retirement Village,Inc.; and the Benevolent EndowmentFoundation, Inc., at the Springfield campus; theBrowning Masonic Community, Inc., in Waterville;and the Western Reserve Masonic Community,Inc., in Medina.

Paul Quinn,Director of Marketing and CommunicationsThe Ohio Masonic Home2655 W. National RoadSpringfield, OH 45504-3698937/525-3074pquinn@ohiomasonichome.org

George Braatz, P.G.M.,Grand Secretary atThe Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of OhioP.O. Box 629Worthington, OH 43085614/885-5318gbraatz@freemason.com

Please remember

The Ohio Masonic Home

in your will.