BEACONJuly/August 2008 VOLUME 15, ISSUE 4

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

Treasured Masonic Artifacts Headed to OhioAn exposition of some of the most treasured Masonic artifacts in our country will be featured at the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge in Columbus on October 16-18.

Among the key displayed items will be:• The St. John’s (or George

Washington Presidential Inaugural) Bible. This is the Bible on which Brother George Washington and several other subsequent Presidents of the United States took their oath of offi ce. It is the property of St. John’s Lodge #1 in New York City. (See story on page 5.)

• The George Washington gavel, which our First President used in the Masonic Cornerstone Ceremony for the U.S. Capitol. This is property of Potomac Lodge #5 in the District of Columbia.

• The George Washington trowel, which was used by Brother Washington to lay the cornerstone of the U.S. Capitol. It is the property of Alexandria-Washington Lodge #22 in Arlington, Virginia.

• Several items will be loaned from the National Heritage Museum of the Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, in Lexington, MA. These include a quilt; a Red Skelton painting; a Master’s Chair originally from Vinton County, Ohio; a Masonic powder horn

and musket, and some M.C. Lilley prints.

• A set of 21 Masonic related paintings from Artist Peter Waddell, on loan from the Octagon Museum in Washington, DC. This collection, called, “The Initiated Eye,” has been touring the

country. Mr. Waddell is the artist commissioned for Ohio’s Bicentennial painting, “From Whence We Came.”

• A chest, originally owned by our fi rst Grand Master Rufus Putnam, on loan from American Union Lodge #1, Marietta.

• A set of historic offi cer jewels from Lodge of Amity #5, Zanesville.

• Pillars from Paragon Lodge #788• Old furniture.• Items from the Grand Lodge

Museum.

The display of items will be in the Delaware Ballroom of the Hyatt Regency Hotel during the Grand Lodge session, and, at times, will be open to the public. Lodge session, and, at times, will

An Ohio Mason has become the Grand Master of DeMolay International. C. Michael Watson, pictured with his wife, Brenda, was installed into his new international position on June 21 in California. Most Worshipful Brother Watson is a Past Grand Master of Masons in Ohio and a Past DeMolay Executive Offi cer in Ohio. He is only the second DeMolay Grand Master in history from Ohio. The other was Most Worshipful Brother Chester Hodges.

Ohioan New DeMolay Grand Master

Bible from St. John’s Lodge, New York City, on which Brother George Washington took fi rst oath of offi ce as U.S. President.

A Great Day to be a Freemason in OhioBy Ronald L. Winnett, Grand Master

WOW, what a great day to bea Freemason!

I, as Grand Master, and on behalf of all the Grand Lodge Offi cers want to thank the thousands of Masons who came from all over the state on June 21 for the parade and rededication of the cornerstone at the State Capitol. I want to thank all Bodies of the Masonic Family for promoting this day for Freemasonry. It is all of us together that make up “The Wonderful World of Freemasonry!”

A special “Thank You” goes to the Sons of the American Revolution, Most Worshipful Brother James Willis and the Prince Hall Masons of Ohio and to the Hudson High School Band for celebrating our 200th Anniversary with us.

I would be remiss if I didn’t say a big “Thank You” to the committees who helped put everything together for the parade and picnic. There are far too many to name in this article. However, I must thank Scott McComb, Terry Devassie,

and Frank Habeker for their many hours spent planning and preparing for the parade.

Thanks also goes to Right Worshipful Brother Steve Cokonougher and Worshipful Brother Larry Mayer and their committee members for the planning and preparations of the food for the picnic. Last but not least, Worshipful Brother Chuck Eichensehr performed a yeoman’s effort making sure that all the details were worked out with the staff of the Ohio Historical Society and the Ohio Village.

By the time you read this message, I will have had the pleasure on June 27 at the opening of Special Olympics to present a check, on behalf of all Masons of Ohio, in the amount of $200,000. A job well done!

The Grand Lodge Offi cers will also have dedicated a plaque at the gravesite of Ohio’s First Grand Master, Rufus Putnam, at a special ceremony held on July 4.

On July 12 a special dinner was held in honor of the six original lodges in Marietta, where a special presentation was given to each of the lodges.

2 July/August 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

Upcoming events are Ohio Masonic Home Day which will be held on September 7 at our Springfi eld campus and the special event for the day will be the burial of the 25 District time capsules. Next will be Lady Linda’s Charity Dinner and Silent Auction to be held on September 13 at the Aladdin Shrine Temple in Columbus, to benefi t all three of our Masonic Communities. Our own Brother Howie Damron will be the entertainment for the evening. October then brings us Grand Lodge.

This has been a special year for all Masonic bodies. We have proven by working together there is nothing we can not accomplish!

Grand Lodge Offi cers’ wives pose at parade, in front of beautifully designed fl oat of the Ohio Rainbow Girls.

Grand Lodge Offi cers surround Grand Master, prepared to begin parade on June 21.

July/August 2008 3

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

What did you do to make a difference in someone’s life? In the life of your Lodge, Chapter, Council, Commandery or Valley?

Every year there are over 2,500 offi cers in line at local lodges. There are 500 past masters of lodges, and thousands of offi cers in the other Masonic organizations. Did they add to the value of their lodge through their leadership? Did they help strengthen the line of succession? How are their members better off through their leadership?

The Ohio Masonic Home hosted Masonic Home executives and trustees from 23 states across the country in June. There are over 40 homes and a variety of community services run by Masonic groups across the country. Together they ac-count for over $3 million in services

provided every day in the name of Freemasonry. It opened in 1867. The smallest homes spend about $4 mil-lion a year on residents, the largest about $400 million. Leadership and succession were important topics of discussion.

The attendees at our meeting worked on ways to strengthen their leadership skills and build their boards so that they would be success-ful far into the future. They worked on new ways to defi ne their mission and vision, discussed their strengths and weaknesses and discovered ways to hold people accountable for creat-ing a legacy of service.

As an offi cer of a Masonic organization, you are expected to identify and coach a replacement for you through your appointment to the line. Look forward to

the legacy you will leave. Find someone better than you are at what you want to see happen. Our boards are appointed in the same manner. Grand Lodge, Grand Chapter, Grand Council, Grand Commandery and the Scottish Rite Deputy for Ohio make appointments to our corporation with the intention of providing us with a legacy of leadership focused on our future needs. We need experts in marketing, sales, business, architecture, service, law, and aging. What expertise do you need for your legacy?

Saying Goodbye to the Childrenof The Ohio Masonic Home

HISTORY OF OHIO FREEMASONRY - PART 5

This fi fth in a series celebrating the 200th anniversary of Ohio Freemasonry looks at the post World War II years at The Ohio Masonic Home and the end of an era with the closing of the children’s home.

Kids who lived at The Ohio Masonic Home’s children’s home, which operated between 1897 and 1956, enjoyed many advantages such as gifts at Christmastime.

(L to R) Worshipful Brother David Bannerman talks with Worshipful Brother Dr. Gary Nicholson, Past Grand High Priest Kermit Zimmerman and Illustrious and Right Worshipful Brother Clarence “Jack” Hartzell.

By the end of the 1940s, fewer and fewer children were being admitted into the home. There were less than 50 children living on campus by 1946. A combination of the end of the war and more prosperous times meant a declining need for a children’s home. The Eastern Star and the Children’s buildings became adult housing. The war memorial in front of Bushnell Hall was installed in 1950 as a tribute to

alumni who served in World War I and World War II.

While the campus census continued to climb into the mid 1950s, still fewer children were admitted. Admissions of children stopped in 1954 and the last 5 children left in 1956.

The Children were a good fi t for The Ohio Masonic Home. They were better off than many children in the community. They learned how to take care of themselves and their property, how to be successful and how to build relationships. Older residents enjoyed their presence. A few Masonic homes around the country still have children’s homes.

Starting nearly 100 years ago, in 1909, reunions of the children’s home alumni provided for renewal and reminiscing. The early reunions had incomplete records, so the fi rst offi cial alumni gathering was in 1926. Alumni gathered every three years on a July 4th weekend. Now meeting every other year, the latest reunion was this July 5-6.

4 July/August 2008

Annual Renaissance Fair Returns in October

Western Reserve Masonic Community in Medina is busy getting ready for a trip to the 16th Century when it presents its third annual Renaissance Fair on the campus 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, October 4 and Sunday, October 5.

There will be something for everybody with jousting knights on horseback, fi re breathers, musicians and choirs and interactive events like archery. Kids can enjoy puppet shows and a dragon theater. There

will be a marketplace for shopping and plenty of Renaissance-era food and other treats. You never know what you may see or hear.

The Renaissance Fair is free and open to the public. Western Reserve Masonic Community is located at

4931 Nettleton Road, near Route 18 and Interstate 71. For more information, call 866-433-1514.

New Health Program Keeps Residents Informed

Western Reserve Masonic Commu-nity residents are being well informed on health and well-

ness issues through a new program developed by Resident Wellness Coordinator Renee Ashby. The program was started due to interest from residents eager to learn about how to live healthy lifestyles.

Educational Series to Be Offered This FallBrowning Masonic Community is a great place to live and a great place to learn. In May, the Waterville campus offered the surrounding community the chance to learn new skills through its new No Limits Education Series.

The three-week program, done in cooperation with Owens Community College, is aimed at active adults with the goals of teaching fresh ideas, learning a new craft, or reliving history or mastering new skills. All for a reasonable cost in one-day and series classes.

The fi rst sessions included how to create bead jewelry with a designer

and the chance to take one home. There was also a one-day series of three separate music classes in which participants could learn the mountain dulcimer, harmonica or ukulele. The fi nal class was a painting class teaching the Bob Ross wet on wet technique.

Marketing Director Tara Lloyd said the class attendees enjoyed the variety of classes and have already begun planning another series with greater diversity over an eight-week time period. Set dates were not available at press time, but Tara said the series will begin in early September and run through early November.

Proposed classes may include:• Going Green: Sustainable Design• Cold Porcelain Sculpting• Zumba Exercise Fitness• Jewelry Making• Investing for the Non Investor• Digital Photography• History of the Phonograph

Along with a six-week lecture series, some classes are also being proposed to be intergenerational, for grandparents and grandkids, like the LEGO building series. for grandparents and grandkids,

For the schedule, cost for classes and more information, contact Tara Lloyd at 866-878-4055 or e-mail Tara at tlloyd@ohiomasonichome.org.

Fire breathers will be among the many amazing and entertaining things you can experience at Western Reserve Masonic Community’s third annual Renaissance Fair October 4 and 5.

The program will be a resource for residents with questions, refer-rals for needed or desired resources, quarterly educational seminars and a wellness newsletter. The fi rst educational session on “Depression in the Elderly” was a huge success, drawing 80 residents. Speakers from the campus fi tness center and therapy department were among those scheduled for future sessions.

Other on-going services for on-campus residents will include availability to have lab/blood work done in their villa home or apartment. Renee Ashby will also be available to help with related questions or to perform functional assessments.

“There is a need in our commu-nity for those interested in aging in place and we are happy to bring it to them,” said Renee. place and we are happy to bring it

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

July/August 2008 5

The Masonic Helping Hands Fairborn Offi ce has recently completed six months helping seniors and disabled adults in Clark, Greene, Montgomery and Miami Counties. The program is now serving the Cincinnati area with its second offi ce, which opened July 14.

Masonic Helping Hands was created to serve seniors and disabled adults who want to stay in their homes with direct assistance through its “companions” who have the personality and skills best suited to an individual’s situation. Companions can help with light housekeeping, meal preparation, companionship, personal care and much more. The new Cincinnati offi ce, located at 8180 Corporate Park Drive in Cincinnati, will offer

Masonic Helping Hands Expands to Cincinnati Area

care to those in Hamilton, Warren, Clermont and Butler Counties.

“Masonic Helping Hands can provide the services needed to maintain productive independence in the comfort of your own home,” said Natalie McDonald, Director.

Masonic Helping Hands has several advantages over competing services. For one, it is proud to be a Veterans Administration Preferred Provider, meaning the service is recommended when it comes to assisting those who served their country when called.

The program also makes sure all companions have a thorough screening process including fi n-gerprinting, criminal background check, drug and alcohol test, physi-cal exam and driving record verifi -

cation. Other assistance includes the availability of an LPN to do medica-tion set-up and administration.

Masonic Helping Hands is run through Masonic Senior Services of Ohio Corp., a subsidiary of The Ohio Masonic Home, fulfi lling its vision to serve people where they want to be.

Masonic Helping Hands plans to add offi ces in Northwest and North-east Ohio in the future. For more information on Masonic Helping Hands, call 877-564-0210.

Masonic Helping Hands companions are skilled to help in a number of areas to make seniors’ lives easier.

Bible Has Become Virtual Sacred Relic in FraternitySt. John’s Lodge #1 in New York City is the owner of what is now known as the George Washington Presidential Inaugural Bible. On April 30, 1789, George Washington took his oath of offi ce on this Bible and launched the Presidency of the United States of America.

Since that time, the Bible has been used for the inaugurations of War-ren G. Harding (of Ohio), Dwight D. Eisenhower, Jimmy Carter and George H.W. Bush. It was intended to be used at the inauguration of George W. Bush, but inclement weather did not permit it.

In addition to its inaugural duties, the Bible was present at the funeral processions of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Jackson and Zachary Taylor. It has also been used at the cornerstone laying of the U.S. Capitol, the dedication of the Washing-ton Monument, the centennials of the cornerstone laying of the White House, U.S. Capitol, the Statue of Liberty.

Other Presidents who have made use of the Bible include Andrew Johnson and Gerald Ford.

The fi rst presidential inaugural cere-mony took place in the open gallery of the old City Hall on Wall Street in New York City, in the presence of a vast multitude. The oath of offi ce was administered by Robert R. Liv-ingstone. The open Bible on which the President laid his hand was held on a rich crimson velvet cushion by Mr. Otis, Secretary of Senate.

Among the distinguished guests present were John Adams, who had been chosen Vice President; George Clinton, fi rst Governor of New York; Philip Schuyler; John Jay; General Henry Knox, and Jacob Morton, Master of St. John’s Lodge.

After taking his oath, he kissed the Bible reverently, closed his eyes, and in an attitude of devotion, said: “So help me God!”

attitude of devotion, said:

Facts about the BibleThe Bible was printed in London by Mark Baskett, printer to the King, taking three years to produce. It contains 103 steel engravings of maps and Old Testament scenes by English artist John Stuart. It is a King James Version, complete with Apocrypha and elaborately supplemented with historical, astronomical and legal data of that period.

The Bible was procured for St. John’s Lodge by Jonathan Hampton who presented it to the Lodge on becoming its Master in 1770. St. John’s Lodge was founded in 1757, but its property was destroyed in the great fi re of lower Manhattan on March 8, 1770.

The only people allowed to take an oath on the Bible are the President of the United States; the Governor of New York; the Grand Master of Masons in New York; the Master-elect of St. John’s Lodge, and Third Degree Candidates of St. John’s Lodge.

The Bible must be accompanied by 3 members of St. John’s Lodge whenever it travels.

6 July/August 2008

Ohio Joins Meeting of World Masonic Leaders in Washington

Top Ohio Grand Lodge leaders attended what has been described as the second largest gathering of Grand Lodges in the history of Freemasonry.

Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett led the Ohio delegation to the World Conference of Grand Lodges in Washington, DC in May. Representatives from 120 Grand Lodges of 5 continents attended.

The largest gathering of Grand Lodges was at the 275th Anniver-sary of the United Grand Lodge of England in London in 1992.

Virtually all North American Grand Lodges were represented, with 24 Grand Lodges from Central and South America, 23 from Europe, and others from Africa, Asia, and Australia.

The delegates met in session and discussed common problems

of worldwide Freemasonry. Representatives gathered at social gatherings and dinners to learn more about each other in one-on-one conversations. Each delegate was given an earphone at the sessions to hear comments, translated into four different languages.

One of the highlight events of the Conference was a ceremony at the World War II Memorial in Washington, DC. The Grand Master of each U.S. Grand Lodge, in turn, was presented a Masonic floral emblem and carried it to his state’s monument in the Memorial. Representatives from other countries also participated in the placement of the floral emblems.

When Grand Master Winnett was given the floral display for Ohio, he had to move nearly halfway around

the huge oval Memorial to the “Ohio” site. He was being pushed in a wheelchair, because he broke his leg a day before traveling to Washington.

Six Grand Lodge Officers, plus three brethren from Dayton, formed the Ohio delegation at the World War II Memorial ceremony, which was part of the World Conference of Grand Lodges. From left are: John A. Johnson, Worshipful Master of Solar Lodge #730 in Dayton; Terry W. Posey, Senior Grand Warden; Ronald L. Winnett, Grand Master; Thomas H. Galyen, Grand Treasurer; George O. Braatz, Grand Secretary; Bradford A. Goebel, Junior Grand Warden; W. Michael Lawson, Past Master of Solar Lodge; Charles R. Murphy, Deputy Grand Master, and David N. Kleiner, Senior Deacon of Solar Lodge. The three members of Solar Lodge came to Washington just to witness portions of the World Conference.

The Masonic floral emblems stand ready for the World War II Memorial ceremony, beneath a very inspirational quotation on the Memorial’s wall.

July/August 2008 7

Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett, who broke his leg a day before the conference, still served as one of Ohio’s delegates at the sessions.

When the Grand Master reached the “Ohio” location, the passageway was fi lled with people, many of whom were in wheelchairs. It was discovered that 32 World War II veterans from Central Ohio had been fl own to Washington as part of the Honor Flight program, and they were at the Memorial at the same time as the Masonic ceremony was going on.

Most Worshipful Brother Winnett, a retired army offi cer himself, was

With several Ohio Grand Lodge Offi cers nearby, Grand Master Winnett, face hidden behind the Masonic fl oral emblem, is pushed by Senior Grand Warden Terry W. Posey.

Grand Secretary George O. Braatz talks with Most Worshipful Brother Devinder Gupta, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of India, who is also a former Chief Justice of the High Court in India.

Grand Master Gives Opening PrayerAt State Legislature SessionTo recognize The Grand Lodge of Ohio’s 200th Anniversary, Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett was asked to give the opening prayer at a legislative session in Columbus on April 29.

An informative introduction was provided by William G. Batchelder, a member of the Ohio House of Representatives and a 40-year member of Medina Lodge #58,

who had arranged for the Grand Master’s appearance.

As part of his prayer, Most Worshipful Brother Winnett said, “Great Creator, I humbly offer the thanks of the Freemasons of Ohio, who two centuries ago in 1808 met at the Statehouse in Chillicothe to form our statewide governing body, The Grand Lodge of Ohio. Our fraternity has been blessed with

members who have been governors, legislators, and clerks, captains of industry, farmers, and mechanics. They have worked hand in hand with their fellow citizens to building the Buckeye State. . . We ask that You continue to bless and prosper the state of Ohio and its residents as we do our best to accomplish Your will.”

After the opening of the session, the Grand Master had the opportunity to talks with legislators and legislative aides who were Masons.

pleased to talk with some of the Ohio veterans, several of whom where Masons. He noted that this coincidence put a great cap on an already impressive event.

Other Grand Lodge Offi cers attending the World Conference were Charles R. Murphy, Deputy Grand Master; Terry W. Posey, Senior Grand Warden; Bradford A. Goebel, Junior Grand Warden; Thomas H. Galyen, PGM, Grand Treasurer, and George O. Braatz, PGM, Grand Secretary. Treasurer, and George O. Braatz,

8 July/August 2008

An estimated 10,000 Masons and family members were drawn to Columbus on Saturday (June 21) to participate in a full day of activities helping the Grand Lodge of Ohio to celebrate its 200th anniversary.

The day started with a parade in downtown Columbus, with more than 4,000 persons marching down High Street, from Nationwide Boulevard to the Statehouse.

All parts of the family of Freemasonry in Ohio were involved, including fl oats or marching units from the Order

Parade, Ceremony, Picnic Enormous Successes in Bicentennial Celebration

of Eastern Star; the Scottish Rite; Chapter, Council and Commandery of the York Rite; Shrine, High Twelve; and Job’s Daughters, Rainbows, and DeMolay, in addition to others. Numerous Lodges and Masonic Districts were involved. A huge delegation from the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio also took part.

The parade lasted for 1 hour and 20 minutes.

One of the goals of Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett was to have “all of the Masonic family” participate

in this Bicentennial Event, and that goal was met.

After the parade, thousands gathered on the Statehouse lawn, and offi cers of the Grand Lodge of Ohio reenacted the traditional Cornerstone Ceremony for the Statehouse.

A new, special stone was used in the ceremony, which is being donated to the state and will be on display in the Statehouse museum. The stone is inscribed: “May our freedom rest upon a sure foundation of good government.

Above, Ohio Eastern Star Worthy Grand Matron Catherine F. Jones and Worthy Grand Patron Richard D. Barrick ride a carriage with their spouses. At left, Grove City Lodge #689 members, home Lodge of the Grand Master, ride their fl oat. Below, picnic is enjoyed near Ohio Village and prize-winning fl oat of 25th Masonic District.

July/August 2008 9

On June 21, 2008, the Freemasons of Ohio used this stone to reenact the laying of the cornerstone of the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus.” The Seal of the State of Ohio and the special Bicentennial logo were also etched on the stone.

After the ceremony, a picnic was held at the Ohio Historical Society for all Masons and family members who participated. Nearly 8,000 persons went through the lines to receive a picnic lunch. Many sat on the grassy area, near I-71, for

their lunch, while others toured the Historical Society Museum and enjoyed the air conditioned comfort inside. Tours of Ohio Village were available, and many took the opportunity to visit Ohio Village Lodge, No. 10, the historic Lodge in the village, sponsored by the Grand Lodge of Ohio.

The 1860s style baseball game held at Ohio Village concluded with a 5-3 victory for the Keystone Reds over the Blue Ashlars.

Above, Lauren Simmons, Grand Worthy Advisor of Ohio’s Rainbow Girls, poses with Mrs. Janice F. Morris, Rainbow Supreme Deputy in Ohio, in front of the racing car which Lauren drives, which was part of the parade.

Above, thousands gather at Ohio Statehouse for cornerstone reenactment ceremony.

10 July/August 2008

Veteran Experiences Night to Remember

Springfi eld Masonic Community independent living resident Chuck George is proud of being a World War II veteran and for his volunteer work. Now he’s helping fellow veterans with a unique Ohio-based program called Honor Flight. Honor Flight is a non-profi t organization that fl ies veterans to Washington D.C. to see the World War II Monument for no cost. Chuck has been a volunteer with the program since its inception in 2005.

In May, Chuck earned a special honor by being invited with other Honor Flight staff to Washington D.C. for the 10th White House News Photographers Association Annual Dinner on May 10.

Springfi eld Masonic Community independent living resident Brother Chuck George, right, met with former U.S. Senator and Brother Bob Dole, and Brother Al Dunn, of Dayton, left, at the World War II Monument during a recent trip to Washington D.C.

Youth Honored with AwardsEach year, the Grand Master presents Excellence in Youth Awards to outstanding young persons in each district. In this picture, Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett listens as award winner Lauren Simmons, of Cortland, Ohio, who is also Grand Worthy Advisor of Ohio’s Rainbow Girls, addresses the audience in the 25th Masonic District.

Hundreds of diabetic children are eagerly planning to attend a summer camp, especially organized for them and supported by the Grand Council, R&SM, of Ohio. Eight camps around Ohio are planned for this summer.

At camp, the children learn they are not alone, and they fi nd comfort and confi dence that they can have a happy life and manage their diabetes just by following a few simple guidelines.

Council Masons have been supporting these camps in Ohio since 1977, increasing contributions each year, until gifts surpassed $59,000 last year. 977, increasing contributions each year, until gifts surpassed

R&SM Council Masons Help Diabetic Children

The day included a visit to the World War II Memorial, where Chuck met former U.S. Senator Bob Dole, who greets visitors to the memorial several times a week. Chuck was also pleased to meet several high-ranking Masons as the World Conference of Masonic Grand Lodges also met in D.C. that week. (See story on page 6.)

Chuck and the Honor Flight staff were the guests of Stephen Brown, a renowned photographer at the

dinner at the Ritz Carlton Hotel. They met media celebrities such as ABC News Anchor Charles Gibson and other print and television news executives. During a ceremony, Chuck and another Honor Flight volunteer were called to the stage and recognized.

“We got a standing ovation, which made us feel really proud,” said Chuck. “This was a fi rst class event all the way.”

Chuck said about the only tough thing about the event was having to wear a tuxedo. But that was a small price to pay.

When not volunteering with Honor Flight, Chuck is always busy around the Springfi eld campus. One of his favorite activities is volunteering at the Pathways Center for Alzheimer’s Care, where he spends time with residents.

“I just love volunteering and meeting a lot of people,” he said.

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

July/August 2008 11

Ken Kettlewell’s life has had several highlights, from meeting presidents and befriending U.S. senators to ministering to thousands of people. Even in retirement Ken continues to set milestones.

Ken shows you’re never too old to try new things and continue your previous work. As proof, the Springfi eld Masonic Community independent living resident has just released his fi fth book, a collection of devotionals for retirement center assisted living residents, and is as active as he’s ever been.

“I want to do things,” said Ken. “I have the time to do these things and there is still a lot for me to do.”

Ken grew up in New Concord, Ohio and knew what he wanted to be from the age of 4 – a minister. After attending Muskingum College and a seminary in Pittsburgh, Ken began a 43-year career as a Presbyterian minister.

“A minister has the richest life possibilities of all,” said Ken. “You

Sharing Life’s Lessonssee people through the best and the worst of times.” Ken estimates he has performed more than 700 weddings, 900 funerals and 1,800 baptisms.

He was particularly honored in 2007 when he baptized the

grandchildren of people he baptized as children.

When not working with the church organ and chime choir or doing morning devotionals, Ken volunteers at the Pathways Center for Alzheimer’s Care on the Springfi eld campus and at two offi ces on the campus. He also leads monthly resident birthday celebrations, the campus High 12 Club and works out each day in the fi tness center.

Ken became a Mason in 1968. “I joined out of curiosity. There were so many men in my congregation who were Masons and I wanted to know what they knew.”

Ken joined Englebeck Lodge in Akron, later went to Lodge of Amity #5 in Zanesville and served as Grand Prior of Scottish Rite Masons. Ken said Masonry gave him an outlet he wasn’t able to have in his profession.

“As a minister you have a problem in being too friendly with your congregation. Masonry allowed my wife, Jean, and me to make friendships we enjoy to this day that didn’t confl ict with my professional obligations.”

A unique friendship Ken enjoys is with one of Ohio’s most notable people. As a schoolboy, Ken was classmates with John Glenn, who became famous as the

fi rst American to orbit the earth in 1962 and represented Ohio in the U.S. Senate for 25 years. In 1998, the same year Glenn became the oldest person ever to go into space, he became a 33rd degree Mason and Ken was asked to put the ring on Glenn’s fi nger. He and Senator Glenn still exchange letters and Christmas cards.

Ken said he doesn’t see any future book projects, but you never know. “Life’s full of possibilities, and I want to take advantage of them while I can,” he said. and I want to take advantage of

Springfi eld Masonic Community independent living resident Ken Kettlewell has authored fi ve books, including a just released book of devotionals.

Gerard Masonic Lodge #428 honored its oldest Past Master, Charles A. Perry, on his 100th birthday. Worshipful Brother Perry, who must now use a wheelchair, was greeted by District Deputy Grand Master Ralph E. McLemore, Worshipful Master Charles L. Short, Jack Schwartz, and Sherwin K. Baril.

100-Year-Old Past Master Honored

12 July/August 2008

Miranda Liggett, a student-athlete at Strasburg High School, was involved in a car accident in December, which left her paralyzed and still in the hospital.

Cypress Lodge #604 in Strasburg in the 21st Masonic District held a dinner and auction and raised more than $13,000 to assist in her medical expenses.

The Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation also presented $1,500 to help inthe medical costs.

High School Athlete Assisted By Masonic Charity GiftsJames F. Easterling, left, Grand Marshal of the Grand Lodge, hands Charitable Foundation check to Natalie McCoy to help with her niece’s medical expenses. Ronald C. Farver, Worshipful Master of Cypress Lodge, and Dewey Jenkins, District Deputy Grand Master, assisted in the presentation.

A Longaberger® TV Time™ Basket with lid engraved with Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett’s lapel pin design is a great way to participate in the Bicentennial of the Grand Lodge of Ohio – and have a unique commemorative item.

All profi ts from the sale of this Grand Lodge Bicentennial Basket will be donated to the Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation.

Special Bicentennial Basket Now Available as Commemorative ItemThe TV Time™ Basket dimensions are 8 inches wide, by 6 ¼ inches deep, by 5 ¼ inches (front height) and 7 inches (back height). The basket is warm brown in color with a primary trim strip of medium blue and a secondary trim strip of dark blue. The trim strips are accented by customized square and compasses tack covers made by ArtVac in Rhode Island. The

Longaberger® lid is engraved by Basket Accessories, LLC, located in Akron, PA.

The cost of the Bicentennial Basket, protector and engraved lid is $100 (tax included). The UPS shipping and handling and insurance fee is $15.

Due to the fact that the basket and protector, engraved lid and custom tack covers come from

“Miranda has a long road ahead of her and she is determined to walk again one day, Natalie McCoy, Miranda’s aunt said, in accepting

the Grand Lodge check. “Thank you so much for all that the Masons have done to help.”

different locations, please allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery. Orders will be taken through October 31, 2008. 8 weeks for delivery. Orders will be

Name______________________________________________________

Lodge______________________________________________________

Address_______________________________________________________

City________________________________________________________

State_______________________ Zip____________________________

Telephone___________________________________________________

Order Form For Bicentennial Longaberger® BasketI would like to order:___ Basket sets @ $100 each = Subtotal $_____________

Shipping, handling & insurance @ 15 per set = Subtotal $_____________

TOTAL $_____________

Longaberger® and other basket and collection names are the property of The Longaberger® Company. This fundraiser is in no way connected with or sponsored by The Longaberger® Company.

Check or money order only, make payable to:James Oughterson, Independent Longaberger® Home Consultant, 2 Winnipeg Plaza, Washington Court House, OH 43160. Please note on the memo line: Bicentennial Basket Set. Questions can be answered by James Oughterson, 740-335-1612 or jimkayo@roadrunner.com.

July/August 2008 13

‘Kitchen Sink’ Pin Presented By Grand MasterGrand Master Ronald L. Winnett, right, presents the “Kitchen Sink” pin to William B. DeBlaey, Worshipful Master of Hudson Lodge #510. A small Masonic “club” was formed a few years ago. Any Mason to eat a huge banana split at a popular ice cream shop in Canton, Ohio, would become a member. The Grand Master became a member a few years ago, and is eligible to wear the “Kitchen Sink” pin, and he shared the honor with Worshipful Brother DeBlaey, who proudly displays his empty ice cream dish.

Lodge Simulates 1808 Masonic MeetingA Lodge meeting conducted as if it were 1808 and a meal of wild turkey, stuffi ng, cornbread, and vegetable soup were part of the Bicentennial celebration dinner held by Forest City Lodge #388. The Lodge offi cers were dressed in authentic costumes and presented ritual from 1808. Also, a fi fe and drum provided entertainment after the meeting.

Cornerstone Ceremonies Becoming Popular in OhioOhio’s Grand Lodge Offi cers are increasingly being called upon to perform the historic Masonic Cornerstone Laying Ceremony. This proud tradition of the Fraternity has been carried out numerous times this year across Ohio. Pictured here is one example. It was a ceremony for Frazeysburg Elementary School, and sponsored by Frazeysburg Lodge #490. At the podium, Senior Grand Warden Terry W. Posey displays the Masonic level, while Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett, wearing his top hat, provides instructions. Other Grand Lodge Offi cers observe the action.

This ‘n That Around the FoundationBy Right Worshipful Brother Timothy B. Strawn, CAE, President, The OMH Benevolent Endowment Foundation

FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE

We made an error in the story last issue about Lady Linda’s Charity Auction, September 13th at Aladdin Shrine Center. If you’re interested in attending….a great dinner, entertainment by the Masonic Troubadour, Howie Damron, and his daughter, Karisa, auction of the gift baskets prepared by the Deputies’ wives in each of the Districts and others with all proceeds going in support of Lady Linda’s List…contact Worshipful Brother Brian Bolyard at 614/267-3514 (this is the correct number….thanks to Brother Joe Simmons for taking all those other calls!) or email to LadyLinda2008@aol.com.

At the completion of all the District Receptions, Lady Linda’s List total stands at better than $18,000!

More than 40 Covering the Future stone reservations have been received. It is anticipated that as many as 60 stones will be in the fi nal design. There’s still time to submit your reservation! For a reservation form and text submittal form, go to www.ohiomasonichome.org, click on the Endowment Foundation tab, then click on Covering the Future in

the pull down menu. Commemorate your lodge, your Masonic family or a special fraternal friend in a very special way.

All gifts are important to us…every one of them does its part in providing the support we need to continue to make the facilities and services of all the organizations within The Ohio Masonic Home available today and tomorrow. We write a thank you letter for each gift, ranging from 25 cents to thousands of dollars. But imagine how happy we were earlier this year…on March 11th to be exact… when a million dollar…yes, million dollar… gift arrived from a terminating charitable remainder trust! The trust was established thirty years ago by a brother in a Columbus-area lodge who made us the remainder benefi ciary to receive the trust after his beloved family member, the income benefi ciary, passed away. The day got better when another terminating trust gift from the wife of that brother/benefactor also arrived and provided a generous additional amount!!

We are…and have been….truly blessed by all your gifts…those

you send today and those you provide for in bequests, trusts and other charitable giving instruments that will benefi t us in future years. Thank you for remembering The Ohio Masonic Home in these special ways!

See you “on the trail”…at Home Day in Springfi eld on September 7th (when we’ll “bury” the bicentennial time capsules); Lady Linda’s Charity Dinner and Auction, September 13th in Columbus; the September Legends event in Fairborn on the 15th and 16th; the Western Reserve Renaissance Faire in Medina on October 4th and 5th ; and/or Grand Lodge in Columbus, October 17th and 18th.

In the meantime, if we can be of assistance, of if you need more information about making a charitable gift to the Home, don’t hesitate to call us toll-free at: 888/248-2664! Thanks.

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 July/August 2008

The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra performed two concerts in the Dayton Masonic Center in March to help celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Grand Lodge of Ohio.

Ticketholders were provided tours of the Masonic Center before each of the concerts.

The concerts featured the rare E.M. Skinner pipe organ in the center’s Scottish Rite Cathedral. This magnifi cent instrument is

one of only a dozen of its type in the world and has the power of 4,700 pipes. Acclaimed musician, Todd Wilson, director of music and organ of Church of the Covenant in Cleveland, was the guest recital soloist.

Among the selections on the concert was The Magic Flute Overture, written by Wolfgang Mozart, a Master Mason, who penned that music as a salute to Freemasonry.

Dayton Philharmonic Helps Celebrate Bicentennial

July/August 2008 15

Thank You For Your GenerosityWe offer our grateful appreciation to the estates, individuals, groups, or other Masonic bodies who have supported The Ohio Masonic Home with gifts given between March 1 and April 30, 2008.

$10,000 +Brister, C. E.Evans, Florence M.Evans, Morgan L.Moore, Florian H.Smith, Francis EugeneSturdivant, Webster

$5,000 - $9,999 Miles, Louise C.Moss, George K.Seifert, Dorothy T. & Myron T.Sheeler, Howard M.The Springfi eld FoundationWilson, Helen G.

$2,500 - $4,999Crans, Julia M.Schulze, Vivian H.Sine, Anna Laura

$1,000 - $2,49911th Masonic District Association16th Masonic District AssociationAlpha Lodge #729, F&AMArters, George D. & B.J.Davis, Orlando W.Ely Lodge #424, F&AMHosler, Bessie V.Kettlewell, KennethMeridian Sun Lodge #69, F&AMSchultz, AdolphShrive, Harold GeorgeSiekeres, Julius M.University Lodge #631, F&AMWarden, Walter $500 - $99921st Masonic District Association25th Masonic District Association5th Masonic District AssociationBannerman, Wm. David & AnitaBraatz, George O. & Marilyn

Charles T. Raymer-Covenant Lodge #683, F&AM

Collinwood Lodge #582, F&AMCommunity Lodge #684, F&AMFairborn Lodge #764, F&AMHeath Lodge #771, F&AMHershberger, Kenneth E.Highland Lodge #38, F&AMHyde Park Lodge #589, F&AMKarth, Charles E. & MarjorieKelly, FloydMichael, Ray F.Moriah Lodge #105, F&AMSomerset Lodge #76, F&AMStow Lodge #768, F&AMThe Richardson FamilyValley of Dayton, AASRWilliams, Frank R.

$100 - $49910th Masonic District Association14th Masonic District Offi cers Association15th Masonic District Association18th Masonic District Association19th Masonic District Association2nd District Offi cers Association3rd Masonic DistrictA. V. Powell & AssociatesAlturas Lodge #537, F&AMAmity Lodge #5, F&AMAshland Lodge #151, F&AMBrookins, Gary J.Brown, Gordon P.Bucyrus Lodge #139, F&AMByerman, Forest L. & CatherineCarroll Lodge #124, F&AMChagrin Falls Chapter #152, RAMDavis, Diane D.; Davis, Billie Ann; Price,

Jim; Denny, Rhonda & RogerDieckhoner, Craig R.Fairfi eld Lodge #261, F&AMFayette Lodge #107, F&AMGeorgetown Lodge #72, F&AM

Grove City Lodge #689, F&AMGustavus Lodge #442, F&AMHarvest Chapter #564, OESHeadlee, Jan E.Hebron Lodge #116, F&AMHeilman, Larry L., Kristin & Family;

Waggoner, Elsa; Waggoner, Roland, Joyce & Family; Swary, Al, Lynn & Family

Holcomb, J. Robert & AntoinetteJeffersonville Lodge #468, F&AMKeller Williams RealtyKelly, William H.Kirkwood Lodge #446, F&AMLucas County Memorial LodgeLynchburg Lodge #178, F&AMMcKibben, Jerry & PattiNichols, Junior A., U.S.A.F., Ret. &

UrsalineNiles-McKinley Lodge #794, F&AMOhio State Secretaries Association, F&AMParee, George M.Pataskala Lodge #404, F&AMPfeifer, Carl E. & NormaQuaker City Lodge #500, F&AMRockton Lodge #316, F&AMSanner, John M.Savannah Lodge #466, F&AMShank, Harold & JosephineSimpkins, David B.Thompson, Brent EdwardThompson, Glenn E.University Heights Lodge #738, F&AMVenus Lodge #152, F&AMWebb Lodge #252, F&AMWilliam Farr Lodge #672, F&AMXenia Lodge #49, F&AMYaney, CarlYeatman-Mt. Washington Lodge #162,

F&AMYellow Springs Lodge #421, F&AM

Cincinnati Masons Portray Degree at Ohio Masonic HomeA bus load of more than 25 Masons from Cincinnati traveled to the Ohio Masonic Home in Springfi eld on May 31 to portray the Master Mason Degree for brethren residing in the Home.

The event was initiated by Dexter A. Denney, Worshipful Master of Cincinnati-Lafayette Lodge #483, and included members from several Lodges.

Most Worshipful Brother C. Rolland Lattanner, a Past Grand Master and resident of the Home, participated in the ritual presentation. Right Worshipful Brother Norman J. Mick, Senior Grand Deacon of the Grand Lodge, brought greetings from the Grand Master.

Other residents of the Home in attendance included Right Worshipful Brother Dale Mortimer; George Davidson, Past Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery, Knights Templar, of Ohio, and Charles Karth, Past Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter, RAM, of Ohio.

Others who were part of the traveling delegation included Edward F. Howard, Associate Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge; Raymond T. Clark, Past Grand Tyler, and First Masonic District Deputy Grand Masters Steven M. Grathwohl and George W. Koehnke III.

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

July/August 2008 • VOLUME 15, ISSUE 4

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

In This Issue:Annual Renaissance Fair Returns in October..............Page 4Masonic Helping Hands Expands to Cincinnati Area..Page 5World Gathering of Masons..................................Pages 6-7Parade Celebration...............................................Pages 8-9

Remaining VitalIllustrious Brother Michael D. Tyne, 33°

program uses puppets to talk with third graders about their choices in abusive situations. Rebecca raises funds to operate the program, re-cruits and trains volunteer puppe-teers, and coordinates the program on a day-to-day basis.

Mike’s and Rebecca’s other passion is SCUBA diving. After taking an introductory SCUBA course while on vacation 17 years ago, they got hooked and have been diving ever since. “The more you do it, the more profi cient you become, the more fun it is,” Mike said. He has taken diving a step further by pursuing underwater photography.

Brother Tyne fi rst became involved with Masonry via DeMolay. He became a Master Mason in 1970. The next year he pursued York and Scottish Rite degrees and also joined Aladdin Shrine. For the past 18 years, Mike has served as a trustee of Aladdin Shriner’s Hospital Association for Children (ASHAC). ASHAC provides medical care to children with orthopedic problems and

burns, supplementing the work of Shriner’s Hospitals at no cost to the child or their family. He is also a trustee of the 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Learning Center in Columbus.

Mike became a 33° Scottish Rite Mason in 2000. He was appointed to the Aladdin Shrine Divan in 2007. Mike has served the fraternity as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Springfi eld Masonic Community. More recently, he was appointed by Most Worshipful Brother Ronald L. Winnett to the Board of the Ohio Masonic Home.

“The Ohio Masonic Home has an incredible history and mission,” Brother Tyne said. “At the same time, we are aware of the need to change in order to remain vital. We need to look at the services we provide and the environment in which they are being offered. As board members, we have the responsibility to make sure adequate resources are available to enable The Ohio Masonic Home to accomplish its mission. I believe The Ohio Masonic Home will make the changes necessary for continued growth and success.” the changes necessary for continued

Illustrious Brother Mike Tyne lives in Galena, Ohio, with his wife Rebecca. They have three daughters, six grandchildren and one great-

grandson. Mike has worked in health care for 50 years, primarily as a health facilities planner. He is Chairman of the Board for one of North America’s largest health care architectural fi rms. He has worked with hundreds of medical centers, plus 75 children’s hospitals located throughout the U.S. and Canada, including nine Shiner’s hospitals.

Mike and Rebecca are particu-larly passionate about child welfare. “That’s where our hearts are,” he said. Mike has served for 18 years on the Board of the Boy Scouts, in addition to numerous other child-oriented volunteer agen-cies. Rebecca brought a nationally recognized program, “Kids on the Block,” to Delaware County. The