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

May / June 2007 VOLUME 14, ISSUE 3

Grand Master’s One-Day Class on March 31Welcomes 2,777 New Master Masons

The Grand Master’s one-day class of candidates in Ohio proved to be a solid success story again, just as three previ-ous classes had demonstrated.

A total of 2,777 new Master Masons joined our Fraternity on March 31, as part of degree presentations at sites in 24 Districts. One District (Fourteen) had scheduled its class on March 3.

Grand Master Michael A. Himes indicated he was very pleased with the overwhelming success of the effort, and praised the hundreds of planners, workers, ritualists,

and candidate guides who had participated.

Reports coming from all over the state indicated there was a high level of ritual excellence, a smooth registration and operational process, and a particularly elevated feeling of fellowship among the new and existing brethren.

The challenge now, according to Most Worshipful Brother Himes, is to fully integrate these new members into our Lodges. Lodge offi cers, he said, should work to invite the new Master Masons to all events, make them feel welcome, plan

special dinners and educational opportunities for them, and offer them the chance to become involved immediately in the work of the Lodge.

This year’s Grand Master’s class marked the fourth such endeavor by the Grand Lodge of Ohio. The previous one-day classes were held in April, 2002; March, 2003; and April, 2005, with a total of 13,891 men be-coming members through this process. The 2007 success brings to 16,668 the number of Masons who have joined Ohio Freema-sonry through this type of event.

Candidates in the Grand Master’s One-Day Class from Waynesville Lodge #163 together with their mentors are pictured in the Dayton Masonic Temple, with Terry W. Posey, Junior Grand Warden, and William P. Mayberry, Sr., Past Grand Master.

(Story continues on page 8)

2 May / June 2007

Brethren of Ohio, Congratulations!By Grand Master Michael A. Himes

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

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

Through the efforts of hundreds of Masons working together as mentors, cast members,

committee people, and in many other ways, 2777 new members were added to our great fraternity at our Grand Master’s Classes.

Our task now is to continue the education and assimilation process, so that these new Masons will be comfortable in their lodge, and will become active and contributing members.

This will not be accomplished by talking about “the way we used to do it.” It will be accomplished by seizing the opportunity at hand now to welcome these new brothers, fi nd out about their interests and abilities, and then match those to a position in the lodge.

Think of the hand of friendship that was presented to you by a worthy brother to enable you to become active in your lodge, and then emulate that example. You will not only be doing what is right for your lodge and the fraternity, you will also be fulfi lling your obligation to display the virtue of brotherly love in a manner which will have an impressive impact on a new brother.

I am pleased that several districts around the state have initiated programs to improve the lecture and charge record in their lodges. Through the efforts of many, both instructors and students, these lodges have been able to fulfi ll their ritual requirements this year, and will be able to do so in the future. You will fi nd a related story in this issue of the “Beacon.”

We have reached the halfway point in the Grand Lodge year. The warmth and hospitality shown to the Grand Lodge Offi cers and

their wives has been especially gratifying, and your support of our charities is truly remarkable.

We have been completely overwhelmed by several of the donations we have received, and thankful for all of them. We are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to make the presentations to the various charitable organizations designated for your gifts.

Brenda and I again thank you for your support and prayers as we travel for the Grand Lodge. She has completed the hardest portion of the chemotherapy, and will soon be starting radiation treatments.

We truly believe that with the help of the Grand Architect, the skill of the doctors, and the prayers of friends such as you that this rough section in the road of life will soon be traversed, and she will be returned to complete health. We can never thank you enough for all that you do for us.

Mark Your Calendar

Plan to join us for key events at the campuses of The Ohio Masonic Home and its subsidiary corporations. All Masons are invited to attend and participate. The events include:

• June 3 – Ohio Masonic Home Day, Springfi eld

• July 28 – Browning Masonic Community Cruise-In, Waterville (Toledo)

• Sept. 8/9 – Western Reserve Masonic Community Renaissance Faire, Medina

• Sept. 17/18 – Jim Perry Legends Golf Classic, Fairborn (Dayton)

To learn how you can participate in and support these events, contact The Ohio Masonic Home at 877-679-4869 or go to www.ohiomasonichome.org.

May / June 2007 3

Values Are Like FingerprintsBy Worshipful Brother Wm. David Bannerman, Chief Executive Offi cer, The Ohio Masonic Home

Ohio Masonic Home CEO Dave Bannerman enjoys a meal with resident Christena Niswonger in the Springfi eld campus’s Lindner Community Center.

Elvis Presley said, “Values are like fi ngerprints. Nobody’s are the same, but you leave ‘em all over everything you do.” (Dr. Steven Covey, The Eighth Habit From Effectiveness to Greatness) What ideals do you live by? Have you described how you want to live and have you written down those ideas? Have you shared them with others?

The Ohio Masonic Home Board of Trustees recently adopted mission and vision statements, a statement of values and fi ve strategies for achieving our vision of where we want to be in fi ve years. Our statement of values is intended as a guide for us, as a business, to consider and act upon as we go about our business. Those values are:

We respect our residents, clients, employees and suppliers by the exercise of brotherly love and invite their participation in support of our mission.

Truth, sincerity, and plain dealing distinguish us in our relationships with residents, clients, employees and suppliers.

Our Charity is found in the gathering of resources to provide Relief to elder Masons, their families and the general public in distress (defi ned as psychological, social, physical, medical, economic, shelter and need for advice.)

By practicing Stewardship with our resources, we preserve our future and expand our charity.

Through these values we will provide Distinguished Service and be recognized as outstanding in Ohio in any service, opera-tion, satisfaction or best practice.

These are strong values by which to live. We believe in them and we will be shaping our programs and services over the next fi ve years to show how we will live by our values. Do you live by a set of

values everyday? Let us know which values you live by and what acting through your values has meant to you.

In the next issue we will describe our mission, vision and strategies.

Grand Master Michael A. Himes, left, congratulates Fred W. Somerlot after his election as President of the State Secretaries Association of Ohio. Right Worshipful Brother Somerlot is Secretary of Palestine Lodge, #158, Marysville, and also serves as a District Deputy Grand Master in the 15th Masonic District.

New President of State Secretaries Installed

4 May / June 2007

The Springfi eld campus of The Ohio Masonic Home has been named the Springfi eld Masonic Community. The change is a result of growth at The Ohio Masonic Home. With additional retirement communities in Medina (Western Reserve Masonic Community) and Waterville (Browning Masonic Community), the new name for the Springfi eld campus provides a geographic distinction for the community.

The name was selected based upon research generated by a series of consumer and stakeholder focus groups. “Research participants indicated the word ‘Masonic’ was an important part of our campus identity,” said Springfi eld Masonic Community President Marion Leeman. “After all, our Masonic heritage and values are integral to our mission.”

The new name is also due to changes made on the campus that make it a more effi cient and inviting retirement community. “We have streamlined operations on the campus to make it easier for residents to access the services they want and need,” Leeman said.

Leeman said people who are considering a move to a retirement community typically will look only at campuses within 20 miles of their current residence. But the attraction of a Masonic community draws people from a greater distance. “People are drawn to our campuses because we value respect and plain-dealing,” she said. “Our reputation for quality attracts people from throughout Ohio and beyond.”

Leeman said many Springfi eld Masonic Community residents are Ohioans who retired to Florida but came back to be closer to family.

“With our beautiful campus, quality retirement living options and 115-year tradition, we offer an attractive alternative,” Leeman said.

Springfi eld Masonic Community replaces the former Masonic Health Care and Masonic Retirement Village in Springfi eld. The Springfi eld Masonic Community offers skilled care, respite care,

opportunities to be innovative in delivering new health care models and services that our customers will need and want,” he added.

Bannerman emphasized the mission of The Ohio Masonic Home remains the same. “The Mission of The Ohio Masonic Home is to provide quality adult healthcare, retirement living and community-

rehabilitation services, assisted living, and independent living in apartments and garden villas. The campus currently has 468 residents and 406 employees.

“The Ohio Masonic Home is entering a new era,” said David Bannerman, Chief Executive Offi cer of The Ohio Masonic Home. “It’s an era that demands we redefi ne our corporate mission, vision, value statements, organizational structure and the services we deliver to our customers. Our future is fi lled with

based service in a dignifi ed, supportive living environment in the name of Ohio Freemasonry,” he said. “The Ohio Masonic Home will be recognized for focusing resources to research and provide innovative eldercare and charitable relief in the best possible environments, serving people where they want to be.”

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

Introducing...Springfi eld Masonic Community

Springfi eld Masonic Community independent living resident Bill Reese enjoys bird watching among many other activities at his Masonic Square garden villa home.

May / June 2007 5

Shangri La

For Brother Lyndale Payne and his wife Joyce, Shangri La is a place called Western Reserve Masonic Community in Medina.

Ohio natives Lyndale, a 53-year Mason from Charles T. Raymer – Covenant #683 in Euclid, and Joyce, an Eastern Star member, lived in Florida for nearly 30 years. They came back to Ohio for a grandson’s wedding and ended up wanting to stay in the area.

“I’m a Buckeye,” Lyndale said. “I’d wanted to get back up here. We’d been through three hurricanes in Florida. Anyway, I like the change of seasons.”

Now, Lyndale and Joyce are free to watch the seasons change right from their apartment. “I can look out at the snow, but I don’t have to go out in it,” Lyndale said, smiling. “I can see the buds on the trees and not just pine trees.”

With their fi ve children wanting them close and feeling confi dent in the Masonic fraternity, the Paynes toured Western Reserve Masonic Community. It was love at fi rst sight according to Lyndale.

“When we walked in this place, there was nothing else that could compare,” he said. “We’ve got a suite, our meals are good, everybody’s polite and there’s always something going on.”

The Paynes like having the freedom to do as they please. For Lyndale, that means having places to relax, of which there are several at Western Reserve.

For Joyce, it means one of many activities. She paints and displays several examples of her work in their apartment; uses the computer

Joyce Payne shows one of her paintings, one of many activites she enjoys at Western Reserve Masonic Community, to husband Lyndale at one of the lounge areas near their independent living apartment.

center; plays several instruments including the organ, dulcimer, auto harp and harmonica and plans to play in the WRMC talent show; and took up crocheting again, something she hadn’t done in many years.

They appreciate the option of eating in their apartment or the dining room.

Knowing their apartment will be cleaned and their meals provided, the Paynes are enthusiastic about all that is offered at Western Reserve Masonic Community. In fact, they are members of the Resident Ambassador Program, which pairs residents with visitors to Western Reserve. Through the Ambassador Program’s “Lunch ‘n’ Learn” sessions, the Paynes have been able to talk about life at Western Reserve Masonic Community with many people who are considering residency at the Medina campus. The Paynes said they are happy to help others learn what a great place they have there.

“It’s an honor to be here,” said Joyce. “We know we’ll be taken care of the rest of our lives.”

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

In a several month period, 18 members of Lodges in the 12th Masonic have learned Lodge lectures, as part of a new program there.

Titled FILL (Fun in Learning Lectures) the program creates enthusiasm and assistance for members to memorize degree lectures. The program is being used in a few other districts, but caught on very rapidly and successfully this year in the 12th District (Jackson, Gallia, and Lawrence counties).

Both Grand Master Michael A. Himes and Douglas O. Brenneman, chairman of the Grand Lodge Ritual Committee, praised the leadership of the 12th District and the members who worked so hard to learn lectures.

Lecture Learning Becomes FunIn Twelfth Masonic District

6 May / June 2007

The Ohio DeMolay Hall of Fame has been created and the fi rst four inductees will be honored at a dinner in Columbus on Saturday, June 30.

The Hall of Fame was designed to recognize those individuals who have made signifi cant contributions and given great service to the Order of DeMolay in Ohio. Awards to living and deceased members may be made, according to the rules. Two posthumous awards will be included in the initial class of inductees.

The four charter members of the Ohio DeMolay Hall of Fame are:

• Chester Hodges• Mark A. Loose• Merlyn E. Meredith• Steven J. KrekusMost Worshipful Brother Hodges,

of Cincinnati, was Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ohio in 1958-59. He was named Executive Offi cer for DeMolay in Ohio in 1960, and became the established leader of the organization in the state for more than a quarter century. He stepped down from that position in 1987. In 1971-72, he served as the international Grand Master of

DeMolay Hall of Fame Created in OhioHodges, Loose, Meredith, Krekus First Recipients

DeMolay, the fi rst such offi ce holder from Ohio. Most Worshipful Brother Hodges died in 1995 at age 87.

Brother Loose was the only Ohio-an to have served as International Master Councilor of DeMolay. He began his leadership as a youth in the Upper Sandusky DeMolay Chapter. In 1974-75, he presided as State Master Councilor in Ohio and became International DeMolay of the Year, before being elected to the prestigious international position in 1975. He was a member of Warpole Lodge in Upper Sandusky, but his service to DeMolay and Freemasonry was cut short by his untimely and unexpected death in 1981 at age 27.

Most Illustrious Companion Meredith has been a DeMolay youth and adult leader at all levels for nearly 70 years. He has attended 69 consecutive Ohio DeMolay Conclaves. He is currently an Emeritus Member of the Supreme Council of DeMolay International, and is a Past Executive Offi cer of DeMolay in Ohio. Active in top leadership positions in Lodge, York Rite and Scottish Rite, Most Illustrious Companion Meredith

is a Past Most Illustrious Grand Master of Grand Council, R.&S.M.,of Ohio, and currently serves as Grand Recorder.

Most Worshipful Brother Krekus has been a DeMolay leader at Chapter, District, State, and National levels. He has been active for many years in Symbolic Lodge and Scottish Rite activities in the Cleveland and Northeast Ohio area and is a Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge, F&A.M., of Ohio. He is a Past DeMolay Executive Offi cer of Ohio and currently is serving as an Active Member of the Supreme Council of DeMolay International.

The fi rst annual Induction Ceremony will begin with a reception at 6:00 p.m. and dinner at 7:00 p.m. in the Aladdin Shrine Center in Columbus. The cost of the dinner is $28 per person. Reservations are required. Use the form on this page and return your reservation by the June 22 deadline.

The creation of Ohio’s DeMolay Hall of Fame and the initial induction ceremony was planned by H. Jeffery Shaw, Ohio Executive Offi cer, George O. Braatz, Timothy B. Strawn, and C. Michael Watson.

Send this form and your check, made out to Ohio DeMolay to George O. Braatz, P.O. Box 629, Worthington, OH 43085-0629, by June 22 deadline.

Please print name and address below:

Two Ohio ‘Teachers of the Year’Are 8th District Master MasonsEric A. Combs, a high school social studies teacher at Fairborn High School in Fairborn, was Ohio Teacher of the Year in 2006. In December, he received his Master Mason Degree in Yellow Springs Lodge #421.

In 2001, Douglas W. Cooper, a economic and government teacher at Wilmington High School, was awarded the same honor by the Ohio Department of Education. He became a member of Dalton Lodge #578 in Wilmington in 2001.

It is quite an honor for the 8th Masonic District to have two of their members honored with this prestigious statewide education award.

Reservation Form for Inaugural DeMolay Hall of Fame Induction

Saturday, June 30, 2007Aladdin Shrine Center, Columbus

6:00 p.m. Reception – 7:00 p.m. Dinner

Please reserve ___ dinners for me at $28 each.Total enclosed: $_________

May / June 2007 7

A Little Bit Better

Dennis L. O’Brien, Jr., age 39, was Junior Deacon of Wellington Lodge #127, in March, 2006, when he was diagnosed with an extremely rapidly advancing type of cancer and passed away in September, 2006. With no life insurance and extremely high

Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation Helps Widow, Son

medical bills, Brother O’Brien’s family, which includes his widow, Christa, and son, Zachary, age 13, was left with a staggering fi nancial problem. On Christmas Eve, a delegation from Wellington Lodge visited their home and presented them a check from the Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation to help offset some of their bills. “The joy and gratitude that was evident was overwhelming and it was a cheerful time during this holiday season,” said Gerald E. Fishbaugh, Worshipful Master. In the picture, Worshipful Brother Fishbaugh, right, presents the check to Christa and son, Zachary.

As Lodge I-CARE programs continue to grow throughout Ohio, more of the Brethren and their wives and widows can benefi t. From complex problems to little things that make someone’s life a little bit better, I-CARE is designed to get Lodge support for Brethren that need it.

If your Lodge is about to start an I-CARE committee or would like to know more about forming one, consider the following examples of how other committees have benefi ted from the program’s time and energy.• Grief support through letters,

home visits and phone calls to widows, widowers and families of deceased clients over the holidays.

• Provided a client who is the caretaker for his wife with literature from the Alzheimer’s Association; topics such as

communications, tips for meals, structuring the day, assisting with personal care and late stage care were discussed.

• Two different lodges from different parts of the state provided gift baskets for the widows of deceased members in their areas over the holidays. Those who helped were as touched as the ladies who received the gift baskets.

• A client whose husband was in a nursing home was having a very hard time getting rides there to visit him. Because the rides were not part of her medical needs, she did not qualify for medical transportation. A referral was

made and the I-CARE committee in her area immediately began picking her up for daily visits.

These are just a handful of the good things that have stemmed from I-CARE so far. There’s always going to be senior members in need. The help you lend could do wonders for the committee members and the senior.

For more information on I-CARE Committees, call Masonic Senior Services at 888/286-0010.

34 Years as Secretary RecognizedAldo O. Pilluti was recognized on March 17 for 34 years of continuous service as Secretary of Jenkins Lodge #471 in Irondale. He received a certifi cation of commendation signed by Grand Master Michael A. Himes and Grand Secretary George O. Braatz.

8 May / June 2007

Cover Story

Grand Master’s One-Day Class

Paul J. Apostelos, center, received his Fellowcraft and Master Mason Degrees at the Grand Master’s Class in Cleveland on March 31 in the 22nd Masonic District. He had taken his Entered Apprentice Degree 47 years earlier in St. John’s Lodge, #13, in Dayton. He is surrounded by, from left, District Deputy Grand Masters Charles E. Cole, Edgar W. Phelps, Sr., Robert A. Behner, and Martin R. Woodworth; and Larry Meadows, Past Master of Oberlin Lodge #380.

For the fi rst time this year, the Grand Master encouraged chapters of Royal Arch Masons to confer the Mark Master Degree, the initial degree in the York Rite, on those candidates who wished to take another step in Masonry.

Numerous York Rite and Scottish Rite Reunions have been held in the weeks following the Grand Master’s Class, and have benefi ted from participation by those new Master Masons from March 31.

In Springfi eld, Steven M. Weller was one of the candidates and became a sixth generation member of his family to be a Mason. He is the son of Robert J. Weller, Past District Deputy Grand Master in the 9th Masonic District.

On a very sad note, Joel D. Brooks, who received his degrees at the Grand Master’s Class in Sandusky, and was “so very happy and impressed” after the degree, died unexpectedly later that evening.

In Cincinnati, the 1st Masonic District named its class in honor of Past Grand Master H. Ray Evans. Most Worshipful Brother Evans, who presided over the Grand Lodge in 1993 and for many years was District Advisor, is very proud of the 179 members in “his” class.

Paul J. Apostelos became a Master Mason in Cleveland on March 31 more than 47 years after he got his Entered Apprentice Degree in St. John’s Lodge #13 in Dayton.

(Story continues from page 1)

This picture shows some of the candidates and members fi lling the sidelines in the Athens Masonic Temple, during the Grand Master’s Class in the 17th Masonic District.

Three generations from William H. Hoover Lodge #770 now can call each other “Brother.” From left are Rick L. Miller, Frank J. Miller, and Curtis R. Miller. Brother Curtis was a candidate in the class in the 21st Masonic District in Canton.

May / June 2007 9

Mayor’s Proclamation to Grand Master in GreenvilleGregory S. Fraley, right, Mayor of Greenville, Ohio, presents a proclamation to Grand Master Michael A. Himes during the annual Grand Master’s Reception in the 3rd Masonic District on March 16.

80-Year Member Presented to Marion MasonStill active at 103 years of age, Oliver E. Hamilton received his 80-year membership award from Grand Master Michael A. Himes on March 23. Brother Hamilton received his Master Mason Degree on May 6, 1927 in Marion Lodge, and has been a member in good standing ever since. He was very appreciative of the recognition and gave appropriate remarks. An 80-year member receives a certifi cate and an engraved clock.

The 69th Annual All Mason’s Family Day at the Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati is scheduled for August 11. Game time is 3:55 p.m., with Masonic pre-game festivities to start at 3:00 p.m.

The Grand Master, Grand Lodge Offi cers, and leaders of many related Masonic organizations will be on hand to celebrate the “nation’s pastime” under the umbrella of Freemasonry.

In the game, the Cincinnati Reds will compete against the San Diego Padres.

A limited number of tickets are available, including 2,000 mezzanine reserved seats and 500 view level reserved seats.

Annual Masonic Baseball Day Planned August 11 in Cincinnati

BASEBALL 2007 69th AnnualAll Masons Family Day

Cincinnati Reds vs. San Diego PadresAugust 11, 2007 – 3:55 PMGreat American Ball Park

(Masonic Pre-Game Festivities – 3:00 PM)

MEZZANINE RESERVED SEAT TICKETS:

_______ Head of Family @ $22.00 = $ __________

_______ Family Member @ $11.00 = $ __________

Handling Charge = $ __________

Total For Mezzanine Seat Tickets = $ __________

VIEW LEVEL SEAT TICKETS:

______ Head of Family @ $15.00 = $ ___________

______ Family Member @ $7.00 = $ ___________

Handling Charge = $ ___________

Total For View Level Seat Tickets = $ ___________

Send this order form, check or money order, VISA, American Express, Discover Card or MasterCard number and expiration date to: Cincinnati Reds, Baseball 2007, 100 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202. Tickets will be sent. Please enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope. No exchanges or refunds.

Name ___________________________________________________________

Phone ___________________________________________________________

Address__________________________________________________________

City _____________________________________________________________

State________________________ Zip_________________________________

MC/Visa _________________________________ Exp.Date ______________

Deadline July 14, 2007. Tickets will be mailed on or about July 28, 2007.

$1.00

$1.00

10 May / June 2007

Ohio Mason, Deceased President Share Fraternal Raising

An Ohio Mason shares a close connection with the late U.S. President and Brother Gerald R. Ford.

James D. Williams, Jr., now living in Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, received his Master Mason Degree in Columbia Lodge #3 in Washington, D.C., on the same night as the late President.

Brother Ford, the most recent President to have been a Mason, died on December 26.

Brother Ford received his Entered Apprentice and Fellow Craft Degrees in his home Lodge, Malta Lodge #465 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Columbia Lodge in

Washington, as a courtesy gesture, was chosen to confer the Master Mason Degree on the then young U.S. Congressman from Michigan.

Brother Williams, who is a member of Aurora Lodge #48 in Portsmouth, Ohio, was a young legislative counsel on the staff of Ohio’s U.S. Senator and Brother Robert Taft in 1951. He, too, sought courtesy work on his Master Mason Degree from Columbia Lodge and both Brothers Ford and Williams received the degree on May 18, 1951.

The two men met that night and maintained a friendship over the years. Actually, they had both

attended law school at Yale, but were not in the same class.

Brother Williams did legal work in a number of government positions over the years, and now, at age 85, is in a retirement center in the Pittsburgh area.

He was born and raised in Portsmouth and attended public schools there. He was graduated from Princeton University with honors and then served on a Navy destroyer in the Pacifi c from 1943 to 1956. Brother Williams has been a member for more than 55 years of Aurora Lodge, where his father and grandfather were also members.

Grand Lodge Offi cers dedicated the new cornerstone for Fayette Lodge #107 on March 10 in Washington Court House.

Cornerstone Ceremony in Washington Court House

60-Year Award Presented at 93rd Birthday PartyEmmet Conway, Sr., was awarded his 60-year pin and certifi cate at his residence, the Heartland of Chillicothe in February, at the same time he was celebrating his 93rd birthday. Standing in the picture, from left, are District Deputy Grand Master Michael R. Satterfi eld, Brother Emmet Conway, Jr., son of the recipient, and Alan Brozak, Master of Delta Lodge #207.

May / June 2007 11

Comments from Purchasers of Cancer Bracelets

This is a wonderful promotion to breast cancer research and education. I am a 12-year survivor myself but lost our only child in 2005 at the age of 47 to the dreaded disease. She left our only grandchild, who lives with us. God’s blessing to you.

Please send this bracelet to my friend who is having a mastectomy April 13.

Hope I am not too late to order more of the pink ribbon bracelets. They are so lovely and I want several to give in support and many to give in remembrance! Thank you and I shall be looking forward to getting them.

I am a former resident of Lorain, Ohio and now living in Las Vegas. Also am a breast cancer survivor. Extend my best wishes and prayers to Brenda Himes and all others who may be or have been affl icted with this dreadful disease. Good luck on the bracelet sales, hope you raise lots of money. It’s for a very good cause. Thank you for helping make more people aware to how often cancer strikes.

Please ship this bracelet to my daughter. My wife (her mother) died from breast cancer.

I am writing this letter to thank you for coming up with such a wonderful idea for your project in supporting a charity

Order form for Breast Cancer Bracelets

No. of bracelets ______ @ $10.00 each $_______________

Shipping charge $_______________

(1-3 bracelets, shipping is $2.00; 4 or more bracelets, shipping is $4.00)

Total amount $_______________

Make check payable to: Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation

Return order form and check to: Mrs. June Galyen, 9112 Fern Cove East, Olmsted Falls, OH 44138-3700

All proceeds will be donated to: The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

Name:_____________________________________________________________

Address:____________________________________________________________

that is of special signifi cance this year. This touches my heart very deeply. My late mother was affl icted with breast cancer twice in the same breast 17 years apart. It was devastating to the entire family. I thank you again from the bottom of my heart, for this great support, concern and love of others. I also pray that the wife of this year’s Grand Master, First Lady Brenda, makes a full and successful recovery and will be able to spend many, many more years healthy, cancer free and happy with her family and friends. LOVE & HELPING OTHERS – Isn’t that what the Masons and Eastern Stars are all about?

Please send me two bracelets. This is a terrible disease. My daughter-in-law has to be operated on this month. Wish we could win on this. There is so much now days. Pray for the sick.

I think you may have known my mother, Ruby Hubler, who died of breast cancer at age of 65. My dad, Calvin Hubler, was Grand Master 1975-76. Extremely happy to support this charity.

My daughter had breast cancer surgery in 1999. She survived it. Her husband had cancer two years ago and this year he died of liver cancer. I say prayers every night for those who have cancer.

In reading the most recent copy of the Beacon, I found this order form for the charity most dear to my heart. My wife is a 13-year survivor of breast cancer. In 1993, it was the shock of my life and there was no way I could understand her feelings. But with her courage and the support of a local group, she did what she was told and continues to be fully independent and cancer free. She is still involved with support groups and runs the Susan G. Komen Race for The Cure. The great thing is, with research they are getting close to the cure.

Sales of the Breast Cancer Bracelets, to support the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, have been very successful, and some of the written responses have been very heartwarming.

The wives of the Grand Lodge Offi cers have been selling the bracelets and they are available by using the coupon on this page. June Galyen, wife of Grand Treasurer Thomas H. Galyen, who designed the pin provided these notes that accompanied of orders for the bracelets:

12 May / June 2007

It’s a Zoo!

Her offi ce is fi lled with animal fi gurines and pictures. When the Toledo Zoo is in the media, people come to her for the inside story. Cecelia Kinor, business offi ce manager at Browning Masonic Community, is an active volunteer at the Toledo Zoo.

Growing up, Cecilia’s family frequently visited the Toledo Zoo. She often visited there with her own children. As her children got older, Cecelia looked to support the community by contributing volunteer time to a worthy local cause. One day, she saw a tiny ad in the Toledo Blade looking for a volunteer in the Zoo’s education department. She pursued the opportunity and has served as zoo educator ever since.

“The basis of the education department is to generate conservation and enthusiasm regarding animals,” said Cecelia.

Cecelia gives talks and tours to visitors, cleans the gorilla yard and helps with any number of other things that might need done at the Zoo. The best part of her job is being able to get close to the animals.

Sometimes Cecelia, goes to other zoos to exchange ideas about what their facilities are doing to make for a better visitor experience. Cecelia estimates she spends about 400 hours annually doing volunteer

The best part of Cecelia Kinor’s volunteer job at the Toledo Zoo is being able to get close to the animals. Cecelia is the business offi ce manager at Browning Masonic Community.

work. She plans to continue on as a zoo volunteer as long as she can.

Cecelia sees similarities between her job at Browning Masonic Com-munity and her work at the Toledo Zoo. Both are like a big extended family with kids, grandkids and others you get to know and care about. “Both organizations have high values,” she said. “Both groups consist of really good people working to improve the quality of life for others.”

Cecelia said her close relationship with her grandparents and prior experience working at a retirement home has fueled her appreciation for the residents of Browning Masonic Community. “They enrich our lives with their wisdom and experiences,” she said. “We are fortunate to be able to spend every day with them.”

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

Howard E. Lyons has been recognized for attending more than 300 consecutive Symbolic Lodge inspections in the 17th Masonic District. He is Past Master of Valley Lodge #145 and a plural member of Clemente Amitie Lodge #185.

300 Consecutive Inspections in 17th District

May / June 2007 13

Bicentennial Flags and Banners are availableFor Lodges to Join in 200th Celebration

Ohio Freemasons will celebrate the Bicentennial of the Grand Lodge of Ohio in 2008. As this happy anniversary rapidly approaches, it is time to start showing our Masonic pride in our Lodges and in the public.

To assist in this, Bicentennial Flags and Banners have been specially designed and are now available for order.

Flags are 2’x3’ and made of nylon and show the full color Bicentennial Logo on a light blue background, and are perfect for outdoor display. The cost of a fl ag is $30, which includes shipping and tax.

Banners are 2’x2’ and made of white satin with gold fringe and tassels. The Bicentennial Logo is again in full color, and they are designed for enhancing an indoor Lodge Room or dining room setting. The cost of a banner is $85, which includes shipping and tax.

A banner and a fl ag can be purchased as a set for $100.

Name______________________________________________________

Lodge______________________________________________________

Address_______________________________________________________

City________________________________________________________

State_______________________ Zip____________________________

Telephone___________________________________________________

Banner

Flag

Order Form For Bicentennial Flags and BannersI would like to order:___ Flag(s) at $30 each for a total of $_____________ Banner(s) at $85 each for a total of $__________OR___ Set(s) of 1 Flag and 1 Banner at $100 per set for a total of $__________

I have included a check for the total amount of $______________________

Delivery will be in six to eight weeks.

Checks should be made out to Grand Lodge of Ohio, and mailed to:

Bicentennial FlagGrand Lodge of OhioP. O. Box 629Worthington, OH 43085-0629

On the Fourth of July, 1818, the map of Sandusky was recorded, as drawn by Hector Kilbourne, a Mason and the fi rst Worshipful Master of Science Lode #50 in Sandusky.

The streets in the city map form a distinctive Square and Compasses shape, which still exists today.

Worshipful Brother Kilbourne received his training – both in the development of community plans and in Freemasonry – from his father, James Kilbourne, who was the founder of Worthington, Ohio, and a charter member of New England Lodge, #4.

Design of Sandusky Streets Brought to Light Once Again by Novel

A monument to the younger Kilbourne stands in Sandusky and can be seen from the Masonic Temple there, where both Science Lodge and Perseverance Lodge #329 meet. The monument explains the city’s layout.

Nearby, a fl ower garden, displaying the Square and Compasses, is maintained by families of Masons in Sandusky.

While a well-known fact for years, the street layout of Sandusky and its Masonic signifi cance was mentioned in a recent novel, “The Book of Fate,” by author Brad Meltzer. In the book, Meltzer notes that his father was a Mason.

14 May / June 2007

The Importance of a Will to WomenBy Right Worshipful Brother Timothy B. Strawn CAEPresident, The OMH Benevolent Endowment Foundation

In our Masonic journey, we are taught many lessons through the presentation of our ritual. One of the most important lessons our ritual teaches, however, is not taught in the lodge room itself but rather in the funeral parlor.

It is there that we are admonished to: “…forget not that preparation which it is wisdom to make and weakness to defer.” That prepara-tion is, of course, preparing an estate plan and a will which will provide for our family after our graduation to the celestial lodge. While that instruction is directed, of course, to the brethren, in this day and age that same encouragement needs to be given to our ladies.

With women increasingly involved in their own careers and assuming more signifi cant positions of leadership in all areas of society, their personal assets and estates are growing rapidly. Thus, estate plans and properly constructed wills are ever more important to them, too.

Whether single or married, with or without children, working in or outside the home, a woman needs to have a will. Every woman has an

estate; they’re simply differentiated by size. A properly constructed will is the best way to provide for the disposition and distribution of property to loved ones and charities that have been important during one’s life. Yet, amazingly, it is estimated that in the United States more than half the people die without having prepared a will! When that happens, of course, the state decides what will happen to all the property and possessions an individual has acquired over a lifetime.

To make sure a woman who is important to you has a will so she, not the state, can make these important decisions, clip the coupon near this article and return it to the Foundation for an informative brochure about the importance of wills to women. Or call the Foundation toll-free at 888/248-2664 to request it.

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

Learn More About the Importance of a Will to Women To receive information about the importance of a will to women, please complete this form and return it to:

Benevolent Endowment FoundationFive Masonic Drive, Springfi eld, OH 45504-3658

Please send me information about the importance of a will to women.Please call me about a personal visit.I’ve named The Ohio Masonic Home in my will, trust or other planned gift. Please send me information about the Rickly Society, the Foundation’s honor recognition program for those making such gifts.

Name______________________________________________________

Address_______________________________________________________

City________________________________________________________

State_______________________ Zip____________________________

Telephone___________________________________________________

Email_______________________________________________________

Lodge______________________________________________________

You may also call the Endowment Foundation toll-free at 1/888/248-2664.

Widow’s Pins Presented at Springfi eld Masonic CommunityEach year, the Springfi eld Masonic Community honors its widows with a dinner, attended by offi cers of the Grand Lodge and of the Ohio Association of High Twelve Clubs. Special widow’s pins are presented to recently widowed residents. In the picture, Deputy Grand Master Ronald L. Winnett presents a pin to Thelma Francies. Her husband, John Francies, a Past Master of West Gate Lodge, #623, and a 50-year member, died in the past year.

May / June 2007 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, 2007.

$10,000 + Brister, C. E.English, WalterGower, Margaret J.Lovell, Russell FrederickSturdivant, Webster

$5,000 - $9,999Buckholtz, Kenneth O. & Faye R.Jones, Dorothy LightfootMoss, George K.Seifert, Dorothy T. & Myron T.Sheeler, Howard M.

$2,500 - $4,999 Jewell, BessieLove, WilliamSchulze, Vivian H.Wilcox, Florence L.

$1,000 - $2,499 Davis, Orlando W.Englewood Lodge #743, F&AMFar Hills Lodge #784, F&AMGevedon, HelenHeppert, James E.Hiram Lodge #18, F&AMHosler, Bessie V.Sine, Anna Laura

$500 - $999 Arters, George D. & B.J.Brookville Lodge #596, F&AMCharles T. Raymer-Covenant Lodge

#683, F&AMColumbia Lodge #44, F&AMDresden Lodge #103, F&AMEly Lodge #424, F&AM

Grove City Lodge #689, F&AMKelly, FloydKlopfenstein, NelsonMontgomery Lodge #94, F&AMNew Carlisle Lodge #100,

F&AMPatriot Lodge #496, F&AMShrive, Harold GeorgeStow Lodge #768, F&AMVandalia Lodge #742, F&AMWarner, Linda S.Williams, Frank R.

$100 - $499 Armen, Scott B., M.D.Ashlar Lodge #639, F&AMAvon-Miami Lodge #542,

F&AMBosse, David A.Botts, Eugene H.Brainard Lodge #336, F&AMBrown, Gordon P.Bush, Gilbert BenedictCarey Lodge #420, F&AMCarroll Lodge #124, F&AMCenter Lodge #86, F&AMChagrin Falls Chapter #152,

RAMClermont Social Lodge #29,

F&AMClifton-Gaston Allen Lodge

#664, F&AMCornell, Lawrence L.Cremeens, Thomas EarlDieckhoner, Craig R.Doric Lodge #172, F&AMEhrhard, Joseph J. & BettyEssex, Theodore R.

Evergreen Lodge #222, F&AMFairfi eld Lodge #261, F&AMFidler, James G. & ElaineFort Black Lodge #413, F&AMGarfi eld Lodge #528, F&AMGarrett Wykoff Lodge #585,

F&AMHaaheim, Sherry A.Hamer Lodge #167, F&AMHammer, DonaldHeath Lodge #771, F&AMHeights-Lion Heart Lodge

#633, F&AMHolcomb, J. Robert & AntonetteHudson Lodge #510, F&AMHugh L. Bates Lodge #686,

F&AMHyde Park Lodge #589, F&AMInformation Systems Branch

Directorate of Information Management, USAG

J. B. Covert Lodge #437, F&AM

Johnston, Fred E.Kalivoda, Michael R.Kaplan, PaulKarr, Thomas W. & DianaKarth, Charles E. & MarjorieKelly, Ralph A., Jr.Lakewood Lodge #601, F&AMLathrop Lodge #676, F&AMLedford, George W.Libanus Lodge #80, F&AMLima Lodge #205, F&AMLitchfi eld Lodge #381, F&AMLucas County Memorial LodgeMayo, Hubert A. & RuthMcCorkle, L. M., Jr.

McKibben, Kenneth D.Morgan, Frederick W. &

ThelmaMystic Lodge #405, F&AMNew Lisbon Lodge #65, F&AMNorton, Brian A. & CherylNova Caesarea Harmony

Lodge #2, F&AMOhio Masonic Home Alumni

AssociationOhio State Secretaries

Association, F&AMOlive Lodge #210, F&AMOxford Lodge #67, F&AMPeebles Lodge #581, F&AMPenix, Arnold R.Ralston, David E.Reisinger, LeRoyRelief Lodge #284, F&AMReynolds & Reynolds Employee

FoundationRoby Lodge #534, F&AMSargent, Barbara J.Shank, Harold & JosephineSibbring, Russell A. & SusanStokes Lodge #305, F&AMStrongsville Lodge #728,

F&AMTaubler, CharlesUnkle, Margaret M.Valley of Dayton, AASRWadsworth Lodge #385,

F&AMWayne Lodge #569, F&AMWhite, Lloyd E. & Margaret

LIFE PLANNINGMonitor Your Blood Pressure

Take the pressure off – reduce your riska) quit smoking

b) loss excess weight

c) get regular blood pressure checks

d) exercise 30 minutes most days a week

e) limit salt or sodium to 1500mg daily ( about ¼ tsp)

f) limit alcohol- more than 1-2 drinks a day can raise blood pressure

g) eat 5-9 servings of fruit and vegetables daily

When was the last time you had your blood pressure checked? Regular blood pressure checks are important because high blood pressure has no obvious symptoms.

Risks factor for high blood pressure include:✔ Over age 50✔ Physically inactive ✔ Diabetic✔ Blood pressure reading between 120/80

and 139/89 is pre-hypertension ✔ Overweight✔ Excess use of salt ✔ Use of tobacco or excessive alcohol use✔ African-American descent

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

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

May / June 2007 • VOLUME 14, ISSUE 3

BOARD FEATURE

Excited About FreemasonryRight Worshipful Brother Don Dunkle

to the Swanton community. Don’s father-in-law was also a Freemason. “Masons are distinguished by respect and benevolence,” said Don.

Don was Master of Swanton Lodge in 1983 and is currently serving again in that capacity. “We’re adding young people to our lodge who are excited about the fraternity,” he said.

Although Don recently retired, he remains active in his community and in the fraternity. He serves on fi ve boards and is an advisor to the 5th District. He is Past Commander-in-Chief of Scottish Rite Valley of Toledo. He is a member of all the York Rite bodies. Also a member of Zenobia Shrine, Brother Dunkle frequently drives needy children to various Shrine hospitals across the country, most commonly to Shrine Orthopedic Hospital in Chicago.

“The children are inspiring,” Don said. “They don’t seem to realize their limitations.”

Don recalled a 9-year-old with one arm. “He wanted to play some football,” he said. “So we

went to a basketball gymnasium and played some catch with the football. He wasn’t going to let a missing arm stop him from what he wanted to do.”

Don also serves as a mentor for two elementary schools in Swan-ton, teaching reading. “It’s great to see the kids grow,” he said of his mentoring experience, which he has done for six years.

A couple of years ago, Don joined the board of The Ohio Masonic Home, and is enjoying the work.

“I have a keen interest in Masonic charities,” he said. “Like other Masonic charities, The Ohio Masonic Home needs to be available to people that need help.”

Although Don sees the future for The Home as “challenging,” he said the organization “has a good, aggressive board, an excellent senior staff and is headed in the right direction.”

Right Worshipful Brother Don Dunkle (Swanton #555) is a licensed pilot and former Air Force offi cer and instructor.

For 32 years, he operated the family grocery store in Swanton. Don is “a World War II buff,” he said. But more than anything, he loves boating and fi shing.

“My wife Nancy and I enjoy being on the water with our family,” Don said. The Dunkles frequently take their three daughters and their grandchildren for a day out in their boat. “We’re a close-knit family,” Don said.

Don joined the Masonic fraternity in 1976. His father, Darrell, was also a member of Swanton #555. “He was a very charitable man,” said Don. The Dunkle family contributed more than $1 million

In This Issue …Introducing Springfi eld Masonic Community ........................page 4Ohio DeMolay Hall of Fame Created .............................page 6The Importance of a Will to Women ........................page 14