Hot dogs, hamburgers, pork roast,chips, beans, soda, popcorn, cottoncandy, snow cones, hayrides, tractorrides, kids games with prizes, a Shrineparade with more than 41 units, a cardisplay, strawberry shortcake and icecream, the Dayton Celtic Academy ofIrish Dancers, song stylist Jack Garrett,the Springfield Banjo Band, theBourbon Street Strutters, caricaturecartoon artist Dennis Porter, JanetDobson’s airbrush artwork, lots ofsunshine, and friendly people. Put themall together and you have all theingredients for Ohio Masonic HomeDay 2003, scheduled to be held Sunday,June 8 at The Home’s Springfieldcampus.

Ohio Masons, their families, OhioMasonic Home campus residents andassociates, and friends are invited to join

the Grand Master of theGrand Lodge of Free &Accepted Masons of Ohio,Most Worshipful BrotherWilliam P. Mayberry, Sr.,and other Grand Lodgeofficers to enjoy TheHome’s Annual Home Daycelebration, on Sunday, June8, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Worship Services will beheld at 10:00 a.m in theRickly CommonsAuditorium and will startthe day’s activities. Masonsfrom various districts, lodges and other Masonic affiliatedorganizations will openrefreshment and craft booths at 11 a.m. A variety ofentertainers will perform in the “Big Tent,” and strolling aroundcampus. In addition, campus walking-tours, horse-drawn wagon tours, andtractor-drawn tours (wheelchairaccessible) will be available.

A major highlight will be the ShrineParade. This year 41 Antioch Shrineparade units, and a Motorcycle Unitfrom Aladdin Shrine in Columbus, will participate.

Children will enjoy the games andprizes, free popcorn, cotton candy, andsnow cones at the “Kid’s Corner.” Inaddition, Janet Dobson will return with her airbrush artwork.

Campus visitors may enjoy a leisurelystroll on the numerous walking trailsbefore visiting the new model patiohomes and new apartments (IredellGardens), have a caricature cartoon of themselves drawn by Dennis Porter,or just visit with family members and friends.

Spring 2003 VOLUME 10, ISSUE 2

BEACONAttend Ohio Masonic Home Day, Sunday June 8

Create a fun, family spring memory

continued on page 10continued on page 3

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

One-Day Classsucceeds again

A total of 3,102 new MasterMasons were raised during a seriesof Grand Master’s One-DayClasses in March, 2003, in Ohio.

Twenty-five classes were held –one in each Masonic district – onthe five Saturdays in March.

Reports from across the statedescribed outstanding degreework, excellent event organization,and uplifting enthusiasm andexcitement among the brethrenand candidates.

While the total size of thegroup is down from the record-setting amount in 2002, thenumber still represents more thantwice as many new candidates asthe Grand Lodge experienced allyear in 2001.

BUILT FORD TOUGH – this 1935 Ford V-8 pickup truck,refurbished and owned by Brother Cliff Ladman, is one of many vehicles that will be on display at theCommunity Center on Home Day, June 8.

WHO WILL GET THE BEST SEAT? –Your entire family can get a curb sideseat along the one-mile parade routeand see the entire parade “up closeand personal.” Bring plenty of film foryour camera.

Beacon / Spring 20032

I want to congratulate andwelcome each new member from the Grand Master’s One-Day Classesheld in March, 2003, into the oldest,largest, and greatest fraternity in theworld. Through these March classesthere were more than 3,100candidates raised. From our One-Day Classes, we have added nearly11,000 members in less than one

year. I want to thank all the brethren for their participation in making the One-Day Classes a success.

As I travel around the State of Ohio, I have found many of the members that joined Freemasonry in the April 27, 2002Grand Master’s One-Day Class are now serving their Lodge as officers, giving lectures, helping in the craft, and attendingthe meetings. I ask all the brethren to take advantage of theseopportunities and become active in your Lodges and enjoy the fellowship.

I also congratulate and welcome the new members thathave joined our Fraternity in the traditional way. This is anexciting time for Freemasonry in Ohio.

I encourage each member to help your Lodge with a fundraising project, with the monies going to support one or moreof your Grand Lodge Charities: the Scholarship Foundation;Masonic Model Student Assistance Program; SpecialOlympics; Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation; and The

Ohio Masonic Home. This is what our fraternity is about,“Building A Brighter Tomorrow” for those in need.

I thank the members who have found time to volunteer as tutors for the OhioReads Program. I have been told that it is a real heart-warming experience to help these youngchildren improve their reading skills. I ask you or any of your family members to consider supporting this worthwhilecommunity project. If you have any questions about thisprogram, please call our Grand Lodge office at 614/885-5318or 800/292-6092.

I would like to invite you to attend The Ohio MasonicHome Day at Springfield, Ohio, on Sunday, June 8. This is a day to enjoy with your family and friends. There will be foodbooths, entertainment, activities for the children, a ShrineParade, and The Ohio Masonic Home special strawberries andhomemade ice cream. You will be able to see all the changesthat are taking place at your Ohio Masonic Home, to improvethe services for Masons, and their wives and widows.

On June 20, you are also encouraged to join your GrandLodge Officers and hundreds of brethren from around thestate, who will be attending the opening ceremony of theOhio Special Olympics Games in Columbus. We will beparading with the athletes and then presenting them with a check, made possible by your donations.

Let me conclude by thanking you for serving this greatFraternity, as we continue our efforts toward “Building ABrighter Tomorrow”. May God bless each of you.

A MESSAGE FROM THE GRAND MASTERby William P. Mayberry, Sr., Grand Master

A Hebrew Proverb states, “Donot confine your own children toyour learning, for they were born in another time.”

It is abundantly clear that when it comes to senior living, bothresidential and healthcare, we are truly in another time.Unprecedented medical advances,affluence, and high expectations

have merged to place unrealistic demands on our government-reimbursement systems. The projected bankruptcy ofMedicare and Social Security, combined with state and federalbudget deficits, dominate the news almost daily.

I would contend that unless we accept that it is our job topay for these services as individuals we will move into a spiralthat has no successful resolution. Although many statisticshave questionable origin, these seem irrefutable:

• In the next 25 years, the 60+ population will increase by 86 percent.

• In the next 25 years, the 85+ population will increase by 200 percent.

• By 2050, the number of people with Alzheimer’s diseasewill triple.

• In 2000 there were 22 million care-giving households —up 300 percent over the past 12 years.

• The caregiver pool will drop from 11:1 in 1990 to 4:1 in 2050.

• Information doubles every two years; 20 percent of whatwe know is obsolete next year.

• In the next 35 years, payroll taxes will double.• By 2027, 86 percent of the world’s economy will be

globalized.

Tip O’Neill, former speaker of the U.S. House fromMassachusetts, is famous for noting that “all politics are local.”Elected officials at every level ultimately want to know what anissue means to their district, their constituents and the peoplethey represent, and its affect on them. It is the sum and thebalance of these “special interests” that legislators weigh inmaking their final decisions on what actions to take and howto vote.

No one individual, however intelligent and experienced,

“TO PAY OR NOT TO PAY,” WHO’S JOB IS IT ANYWAY?

by Joseph (Jerry) B. Kuyoth, Jr., C.N.H.A. CEO, The Ohio Masonic Home

continued on back cover

Beacon / Spring 2003 3

Home Day (continued from page 1)

The Home’s famous strawberry shortcake and icecream, as well as a large variety of picnic-stylerefreshments, will be available in the vendor’s tent.

Dayton’s Celtic Academy of Irish Dancers, SongStylist Jack Garrett, the Springfield Banjo Band, andthe Bourbon Street Strutters will all perform atHome Day.

Also, various Miami Valley owners of refurbished cars have been invited to display theirvehicles starting at 11 a.m. by the CommunityCenter. Some of the vehicles on display will include:1930 Model A, 1935 Ford pickup truck, 1950 F-1Ford pickup truck, 1965 Ford Mustang, 1966 FordFairlane, 1962 Corvette, 1969 Corvette, 1996Dodge Charger, 2002 Toyota MR2 Spyder, a 1988Porsche 944, and many more.

For more information about Home Day, call thePublic Relations Department at 937/525-3074 or e-mail your questions to: Jguess@ohiomasonichome.org.

10 a.m. Worship Service, Rickly CommonsAuditorium

11 a.m. All booths open and activitiesbegin

Strawberry shortcake & ice creamserved from the Hillman Kitchen,2nd floor

Strolling Burbon Street Strutters

Car display at Community Centerwith ‘50s & ‘60s music

Kids’ Corner Tent by the shelterhouse, games & prizes, freecotton candy, popcorn, and snowcones to kids of all ages

Campus Walking Tours

Horse-drawn Wagon Tours

Tractor-drawn Wagon Tours

11:30 a.m. The Celtic Academic of IrishDancers – Big Tent

12 p.m. Song Stylist Jack Garrett – Big Tent

1 p.m. Shrine Parade

2 p.m. Official Welcome & Grand Lodge Officer Introductions – Big Tent

Rubicon Lodge #237 Presentationto The Ohio Masonic Home

2:30 p.m. Springfield Banjo Band – Big Tent

3 p.m. Community Center Dining Room Dedication Ceremony

4 p.m. Conclusion of Home Day 2003

Ohio Masonic Home Day Program Schedule

IRISH DANCERS – Performers from Dayton’s CelticAcademy of Irish Dancers will perform at Home Day onJune 8, in the Entertainment Tent at 11:30 a.m.

Parade EscortLead CarLegion of HonorPipersPotentateDivanPast PotentatesBobbiesGreetersAmbassadorsMarching PatrolStewardsArea Shrine Club Past MastersField MusicService WagonMounted PatrolPote’s Little SymphonyDirectors StaffTemple GuardBrass Band

Motor CorpTouring GroupDune BuggiesSpecialty GroupOriental BandKentucky ColonelsRoversFunstersHospital VanRed CarsHillbilliesAntique CarsHospital VanTroubadorsHospital VanIndy CarsHospital Van18 WheelersJeepstersCalliopeMotorcycle Corp

2003 Shrine Parade Units

4 Beacon / Spring 2003

“But the greatest of these ischarity.”

With that admonition, the GrandLodge of Ohio has been generouslygiving grants to needy Ohioans fromthe resources of our CharitableFoundation. Here are a few examplesof those helped during the past year:

• A 4-year-old boy with cancer,whose family is having difficultypaying for the radiation andchemotherapy treatments.

• A Past Master of a Lodgesuffering with a life-threateningchronic hepatitis C, with medicalbills hitting more than $3,000 a month.

• Two young girls, whose 26-year-old mother died after lapsing intoa coma.

• A Brother Mason with multipleheart problems, waiting for a transplant.

• A 3-year-old child with acutelymphocytic leukemia

• A 4-year-old boy with acutemyeloid leukemia

• A 19-month-old boy awaiting a liver transplant

• A 35-year-old husband and fatherof three, with no health benefits,who has cancer in his hip that hasstopped him from working as aself-employed carpenter

• A young woman, comatose fornearly a year after a severe trafficaccident, but now beginning towalk and worry about $16,000 in bills not covered by insurance.

The list can go on. Since January 1,2002, the Grand Lodge CharitableFoundation has given out 28 grantstotaling $53,000. Since the first giftwas given out in December of 1995,more than $131,000 has beenawarded.

This charity is made possible by thecontributions our members andLodges make to the Grand LodgeCharitable Foundation. Only theinterest from this endowment fundmay be spent. As the fund grows, thefraternity can help more people.

From time to time, our membersreceive mailings intended to encouragecontributions to the CharitableFoundation. While some membersobject to these mailings, otherscontribute generously.

The foundation is a 501 (c) (3)organization and all donations may bededucted from your income tax.Checks to the Grand Lodge CharitableFoundation may be sent to GrandLodge of Ohio, P.O. Box 629,Worthington, OH 43085.

Passion for helping those in need promptsefforts for Charitable Foundation

The First Annual Grand MastersCup Golf Tournament will be heldon Tuesday, September 9th, 2003,at the prestigious Little TurtleCountry Club inWesterville, Ohio,with all proceedsgoing to theCharitableFoundation of theGrand Lodge ofOhio.

The fees are $90per golfer, or $360per team of four.The price includes18 holes of golf,cart rental, a box lunch, and dinner.

The tournament will consist of144 golfers in a “scramble.”Registration begins at 11a.m., witha shotgun start at noon.

The tournament offers an

excellent opportunity for golfers to play on Little Turtle’s peaceful,wooded setting, one of the mostexclusive courses in the state.

The CharitableFoundation assists our communities with projects like the Masonic ModelStudent AssistanceProgram, as well asproviding relief forindividuals in needfrom our communities,our brethren, or theirwidows and orphans.

For more information on thetournament, along with registrationinformation, call Mark Bernardin atthe Grand Lodge office (800/292-6092),or visit www.freemason.com and clickon Grand Masters Cup.

First Annual Grand Masters Cup GolfTourney to support Grand LodgeCharitable Foundation

Ohio receivesprestigious MasonicModel national award

The Grand Lodge of Ohio’sMasonic Model Student AssistanceTraining was recently honored withthe 2003 Medallion of Excellencefrom the National MasonicFoundation for Children.

This annual award is given formaintaining the highest standards of quality Masonic Model StudentAssistance Training. The award was presented in February at theConference of Grand Masters inMinneapolis.

The Grand Lodge of Ohio hasbeen using the Masonic Modeltraining to teach Ohio schoolpersonnel how to identify and help“at-risk” kids since 1995. For moreinformation about Ohio’s MasonicModel program, including how you can get involved, please visitwww.freemason.com, or call the Grand Lodge office at 800/292-6092.

Address change procedureIf your address has changed, please

notify your local Lodge Secretary as soonas possible.

The mailing list for the Beacon, forexample, is produced from informationeach Lodge supplies to the Grand Lodge.

5Beacon / Spring 2003

The Athens, Ohio, MasonicTemple, constructed in 1976, hasstepped boldly into the 21st Centurywith an impressive audio/visualcommunication system in the Lodge Room.

It features two 42-inch plasma, or “flat,” television screens, attachedto walls in the “East,” on each side of the stage.

The system also includes sixcameras outside the Lodge Room, that can broadcast pictures on thescreens inside, 14 cordlessmicrophones so officers and otherspeakers can be heard on the high-endsound system, and a sophisticated,computer-directed control panel.

William G. Conrad, president of the Athens Temple Company, said the goal was to install the latestpossible technology in audio/visualsystems, to be ready for whateverinnovations the fraternity pursues in the years ahead.

The Athens Temple Companyfinanced the $25,000 cost andinstallation of the equipment. The company is owned by ParamuthiaLodge #25; Athens Chapter, R.A.M.,Athens Council, R.&S.M., and AthensCommandery, Knights Templar. Otherorganizations using the building,including the Order of Eastern Starand youth groups, are able to use the equipment.

The system was installed in the last few months of 2002, andRight Worshipful Brother Conradacknowledged they are still learninghow to use all of its elaborate features.

The operator can sit at the controlcabinet, near the Lodge Secretary’sdesk, and see the view of all outsidecameras on a tiny monitor, thendecide which view he wants tobroadcast on the screens in the Lodge Room.

One of the chief goals of thesystem, he explained, was to helpsome of the York Rite bodies. Aportion of several of the degrees take place outside the Lodge Room,and with the use of the cameras andmicrophones, the action can be viewedcompletely by those sitting inside.

For example, there are four camerasto show what happens in the various“veils” or “arches” during Chapterand Council degrees. Another camerais fixed to capture “discoveries” in the“quarries” in the Royal Arch Degree.A camera, showing a wide-angle viewof the lobby, is appropriate for viewing

ceremonial portions of the full form opening atCommandery inspections.

The video system is also hooked upto cable television and DVD and VCRunits, to permit such viewing bygroups using the room.

A laptop computer that comes withthe system can program a variety ofspecial effects and transitions, as wellas PowerPoint programs, all forviewing on the large screens.

Previously, the Lodge had eightwireless microphones, but six new,smaller cordless units were added soall officers can be “miked” in virtuallyall work of any of the bodies.

A significant amount of music hasbeen recorded on DVDs to play at the push of a button for patriotic,marching, ceremonial, or degreepurposes.

“Everyone was very impressedwhen we used the equipment for thefirst time at the inspection of AthensRoyal Arch Chapter in January,”Brother Conrad said. He is a PastDistrict Deputy Grand Master in the17th Masonic District and is reallyenjoying learning the operation of the new system and experimentingwith its additional uses.

Athens Masonic Temple installs high-tech systems

William Conrad demonstrates computer-generated system.

Doug Phillips, secretary of ParamuthiaLodge, displays audio control unit.

Charles A. Brigham, Jr., passes awayCharles A. Brigham, Jr., Grand Master of the Grand Lodge in 1979-80,

passed away in a Florida hospital on February 23, 2003.During his distinguished legal career in Cincinnati, Most Worshipful

Brother Brigham was active in numerous professional, civic, and culturalorganizations. He was a Past Master of Madisonville (now Madisonville-Maderia) Lodge, # 419. In recent years, the Lodge has named itsbuilding in his honor.

From 1981 to 1994, he was a member of the Board of Directors of the George Washington Masonic National Memorial Association inAlexandria, Virginia, including service as president the final four years.

Most Worshipful Brother Brigham was a respected professional in his community and a beloved Brother in his Lodge. He used his keenlegal mind for many years as chairman of the Grand LodgeJurisprudence Committee.

Ordering now easier forPlumb Line clothing

Ordering items from the Plumb Line, theGrand Lodge collection of Masonic clothing,just became easier.

There are no longer any minimum orders.Orders can be placed immediately and deliveredin four to six weeks.

The Plumb Line has some great items for the summer months. You can choose from poloshirts, T-shirts, shorts, and other items, allembroidered with the “Ohio Freemasonry – Est. 1808” logo. Order them now to enjoythem this summer.

For more information or an order form,please call the Grand Lodge office at 800/292-6092, or visit www.freemason.comand click on Plumb Line.

Beacon / Spring 20036

The Ohio Special OlympicsSummer Games are almost here!

If you are interested inparticipating in the OpeningCeremonies on June 20, pleaseassemble by 5:30 p.m. at the JesseOwens Memorial Track and FieldComplex on The Ohio StateUniversity campus in Columbus, the same site as last year.

Attire will be black pants and whiteshirt, and please bring your apron.The first 500 Masons to register thatday will receive a newly-designed

Special Olympics pin and a SpecialOlympics hat.

Still Time for Last-MinuteDonations

The deadline for donations to the2003 Special Olympics is May 24,2003. Make checks payable to“Charitable Foundation,” and sendthem to Grand Lodge of Ohio, P.O.Box 629, Worthington, OH 43085.Do not forget to include “SpecialOlympics” and your Lodge number on the check’s memo line.

There are also some copies of theWidow’s Son CD available forpurchase. This CD was created bythree Masons from the Columbusarea. All proceeds from the sale of thisCD will go to the Grand LodgeSpecial Olympics Fund. For moreinformation on the CD, please contactMike Cox at 614/891-8742, or visitwww.astring.com/widowsson.Several entries for the new SpecialOlympics pin design have been received.The winner will be announced and thenew design displayed on the GrandLodge’s Web page, www.freemason.com.

Ohio Special Olympics Opening Ceremonies set for June 20

To commemorate the State ofOhio’s Bicentennial, the Grand Lodgehas commissioned an original piece of artwork entitled: FreemasonryCornerstone of Ohio History ~1803-2003.

The historic items depicted in itcan all be found in the Grand LodgeMuseum in Worthington and illustrateFreemasonry’s presence in theBuckeye State for well over 200 years.

The print measures 14" x 20" and is suitable for framing. Thiscommemorative piece of art isavailable in limited quantities for $15plus $5 shipping and handling. Theproceeds will benefit the Grand LodgeScholarship Foundation, which awards47 scholarships of $2,000 each toOhio college and university students,annually. Supplies are limited, soplease order now.

Bicentennial artwork to benefit Grand Lodge Scholarship Foundation

Reduced-size image of Freemasonry Cornerstone of Ohio History. Actual size is 14" x 20"

Name:________________________________

Address:______________________________

City:__________________________________

State:_____________ Zip:________________

Mail to: Grand Lodge, P.O. Box 629, Worthington, OH 43085

Total

$________

$5.00

$________

Price Each

$15.00

Quantity

________

Shipping & Handling

Total for Order:

Freemasonry Cornerstone of Ohio History

A R T W O R K O R D E R F O R M

The entry fee to purchase anEndowed Membership will increasefrom $600 to $800 on July 31,2003.

Members purchasing an EndowedMembership by July 31 each yearpay dues one more time, then neverhave to pay dues to their Lodgeagain. The Lodge receives a“dividend” from the investment inlieu of dues. The Lodge will

continue to receive such paymentannually, even after an individualdies.

The program assures a consistentincome to Lodges, and alleviates theneed for suspensions for nonpaymentof dues for those Masons with anEndowed Membership.

For more information on theEndowed Membership program,please contact your Lodge Secretary.

Endowed membership entry fee to increase on July 31

Beacon / Spring 2003 7

Finally!Spring hasarrived and,after ourseeminglyendlesswinter, we aremore anxiousthan usual forthe budding

and blossoming which signal that theseason of renewal is here. Hope youespecially enjoy your time out of doorsthis year!

This is also the time when manyfolks begin to contemplate theircharitable giving for the year. We want to make sure you know there are several ways in which you canmake your gift to The Home. Formany years, a number of brethren have simply included an additionalamount when they submit their annual dues to their lodge. Theirindividual gift is then added to

other individual gifts and forwarded to us by the lodge secretary. Others,an increasing number, send their gifts directly to the Foundation at the address found on our coupon in this issue of the BEACON.

There is another, lesser-known way in which some brethren andfriends may be able to make gifts to The Home. For those who areparticipating in a United Wayprogram, you may be able to makeyour gift through this program. Whilenot all United Way programs permitdonor designation of gifts, those thatdo should be able to facilitate a gift toThe Home. Check with your UnitedWay program to see if it offers thedonor designation option. If youutilize this option, however, rememberthat an administrative fee and, in somecases, an additional fee to coverunfulfilled pledges, is deducted fromthe amount you pledge so the ultimateamount coming to The Home will be

less than that which you pledge. Youmay consider adjusting your pledgeamount to assure that the amountintended for The Home actually getsto us.

And, just a reminder: some of youmay be able to double your gift to The Home without taking additionaldollars out of your pocket! TheMatching Gifts program is madeavailable by a number of companies to match their employees’ (sometimeseven retirees’!) gifts to charitableorganizations. To see if yourorganization offers matching gifts,simply call Staci in the Foundationoffice toll free at 888/248-2664.

If you are interested in receivingmore information about any of theseprograms, please use the convenientcoupon here in the BEACON torequest it or call the Foundation toll-free at 888/248-2664 or write us atFive Masonic Drive, Springfield, OH45504-3658.

Kevin Shields is the new director of nursing atthe Masonic Eastern Star Community (MESC), inCincinnati. “I am honored to be part of anorganization that is truly resident-care focused,” said Shields.

A 1993 graduate of The Christ Hospital Schoolof Nursing and Xavier University in Cincinnati,Shields has worked as a nurse aid, charge nurse,facility-nursing supervisor, MDS coordinator, and as an assistant director of nursing. He receivedGerontology Certification in 1997 from TheAmerican Nurses Credentialing Center.

Prior to becoming a Registered Nurse, Shieldsgraduated from The University of Cincinnati with a major in business management and worked as acontroller for a construction company.

His grandmother inspired him to become anurse. “I wanted to follow in her footsteps andcomfort the ill,” he said.

“At MESC we are dedicated to providing ourresidents with the highest standard of excellence in care. We protect and preserve our greatestnational treasure – our senior citizens – withdignity,” he said.

FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTUREby Timothy B. Strawn CAE, President, The Ohio Masonic Home Benevolent Endowment Foundation, Inc.

New Director of Nursing joins MESC team

John D. Reese, security and transportation supervisor atthe Springfield campus, responds to an emergency callwith The Home's new security vehicle. The 2002 usedFord Escape mini-SUV is the first mission-specific securityvehicle purchased by The Home.

Rapid Response

Beacon / Spring 20038

Do you have at least one hour aweek to give to a child who maydesperately need your help?

Ohio students are far behind thenational averages for readingproficiency, which may negativelyeffect their future chances for success.For this reason, the Grand Lodge andthe Eastern Star Grand Chapter haveadopted the OhioReads program as away for the Masonic family to becomeinvolved in their local communities.

OhioReads trains volunteers to help kindergarten through 4th gradestudents with their reading skills.

Nancy Cooper, OhioReadscoordinator for New ViennaElementary, thanks the Masons ofOhio for actively participating in the academic lives of young children.

“We have two Masons who arevolunteers in our school, EldonEastridge and Les Bower. Our

children benefit tremendously byhaving adults, other than just teachersand staff, to show them that it isimportant to read,” says Cooper.

Brother Eastridge is a member andBrother Bower is the Senior Wardenof Highland Lodge #38 in Hillsboro.Both brothers spend two hours a weekvolunteering at the New ViennaElementary, where each hour is split

between two 4th grade students. The children work on readingexercises with a computer, and thevolunteers help them with vocabulary,sounding out words, and with basicreading skills.

Brother Eastridge mused, “it’sreally very easy to help the childrenwith reading, and they’re always happy to return the favor by answeringcomputer questions.”

To volunteer as an OhioReadstutor, call 888/OhioReads. Simplyexplain that you are a Mason ormember of the Eastern Star andidentify the school district where you would like to volunteer. They will be able to provide you with thephone number of the OhioReadsCoordinator in your district. Pleaseremember to report to your Lodge orOES Chapter Secretary that you areparticipating in this worthy program.

Masonic-family volunteers make greatcontributions to OhioReads

Earl D. Wheeler was presentedhis 75-year award in his home by Past Grand Master C. MichaelWatson.

Most Worshipful Brother Watson,when he was Grand Master five yearsago, had presented Brother Wheelerhis 70-year pin. Both promised to beback in five years for this latestpresentation.

Brother Wheeler maintains ascrapbook, containing 75 years ofdues cards.

Those present for the awardceremony included, Brother Wheeler(seated), and standing, from left,Tenth District Deputy Grand MastersTimothy L. Jolliff and Adrian G.

Werst, Jr.; Terry W. Posey, JuniorGrand Deacon; James M. Williamson,Junior Grand Warden; and Past GrandMaster Watson.

Russell M. Oliver, Secretary ofAlpha Lodge #729 in Kettering, wasnamed Outstanding Lodge Secretaryfor 2002.

A plaque was presented to him byGrand Secretary George O. Braatz,P.G.M., and his name listed on aplaque in the Grand Lodge Offices as the first member of the LodgeSecretary Hall of Fame.

The award, given for timeliness,accuracy, cooperation, and excellencein the performance of Lodgesecretarial duties, is decided by themembers of the Grand Secretary’sstaff, excluding the Grand Secretary.

Wheeler receives 75-year awardRussell Oliver named2002 outstandingsecretary

Eldon Eastridge works with ayoung student, as a volunteer forthe OhioReads program.

Pictured are, from left, Past GrandMaster Neil M. Smalley, a member of Alpha Lodge; and Brothers Oliver and Braatz.

Dr. Judson E. Fiebiger, a memberof Tuendawie Lodge #195 in Defiance,received his 75-year pin and certificatein his home in Holley Hill, Florida.The award was presented during a visitfrom William A. Coffman, Past DistrictDeputy Grand Master in the FifthMasonic District and Secretary ofTuendawie Lodge.

Dr. Fiebiger joined the Lodgewhile a senior at Defiance College. Hesubsequently served 66 years in theministry before retiring in Florida.

Fiebiger awarded 75-year pin

Beacon / Spring 2003 9

More Light About MasonryMore Light About Masonry

Extracts from the 1958 GrandLodge Proceedings: AmericanUnion Lodge, as a traveling militaryLodge attached to the ContinentalArmy of Connecticut, had adistinguished history.

The names of no less than 450 men appear in the records as members, candidates, visitors, or guests. They include our firstpresident, governors, senators,congressmen, cabinet members,diplomats, judges, and generals by the dozen. Forty-six became

Masters of Lodges, 11 becameGrand Masters, 12 died in theservice of their country on thebattlefield.

One of the early members todistinguish himself in Ohio wasMajor Jonathan Heart, who servedas Worshipful Master from 1779until 1790. It was to WorshipfulBrother Heart that Rufus Putnamand others of the new settlement inMarietta appealed to reactivateAmerican Union Lodge under theLodge’s old warrant which was in

Heart’s possession. Worshipful Brother Heart has

the distinction of being the firstWorshipful Master of a Lodge inOhio to give his life in battle. Hedied in a desperate counterattack at St. Clair’s defeat on the Wabash,November 4, 1791. The next spring,when the bodies or remnants werefound, they were buried in a massgrave at Fort Recovery, the cannondragged from the river booming outthe funeral grand honors in a salvo of 3x3.

W. B. John Heart — Ohio’s first WorshipfulMaster to fall on war battlefield

Many Masons have heard of thenow-famous St. John’s Bible, whichwas used by George Washington forhis inauguration as President of theUnited States, and which came fromSt. John's Lodge #1 New York, wheretoday it remains a sacred possession.Recently this Bible was the topic ofseveral episodes of the presidentialtelevision drama The West Wing.

However, how many Masons arefamiliar with the famous OhioMasonic Bibles?

There are at least three such Bibles.The first is in the possession of SciotoLodge #6 and was the Bible usedduring the formation of the GrandLodge in 1808 and many of the earlyGrand Lodge Communications.

The second Bible is that uponwhich Brother William H. Taft tookhis obligations when he was made aMaster Mason at sight by GrandMaster Charles. S. Hoskinson onFebruary 18, 1909. At the time,Brother Taft was President-elect of theUnited States of America. This Biblewas signed by Brother Taft and is onpermanent display at the Grand LodgeMuseum in Worthington.

The third famous Ohio MasonicBible is in the possession of MarionLodge #70. This Bible was used byanother U.S. President-elect, BrotherWarren G. Harding, when he took theFellow Craft and Master Masondegrees in 1920.

However, the most important andcherished of all the Ohio MasonicBibles or Holy Books is the one eachCandidate receives from his ownLodge upon the occasion of his beingraised to the degree of Master Mason.

Ohio has famous Masonic Bibles, too

The Bible used and signed by BrotherWilliam H. Taft is on display at the Grand Lodge Museum.

Grand Lodge UtilitiesProgram

MetroMedia Energy has resumedtaking applications for the GrandLodge Utilities Program. Because of the excessively high market prices of natural gas, MetroMedia Energyhad temporary stopped takingapplications during the months of February and March.

By switching to MetroMedia inMay or June, customers may lock in afixed rate at a time that will be mostfinancially beneficial to them. Formore information or to enroll in theNatural Gas Program call MarketSolutions at 800/490-4427, ext. 0 or email them atmsicolumbus@msiutilities.com. Pleaselet them know you are calling

concerning the Grand Lodge of OhioNatural Gas Program.

Long distance telephonerates included in program

The long distance telephone ratesfor the Grand Lodge Utilities Programremains a good economic choice forOhio Masons and their families and

Natural gas prices rise while long distance rates remain low

continued on back cover

Beacon / Spring 200310

What’s happening with 2002 One-Day Class Members?

One-Day Class update (continued from page 1)

Brother Bob Evans,namesake of the familiarrestaurant chain, was featuredin the Winter 2003 issue of theBEACON. In the story, acouple of facts were left out.

In addition to being a 60-year member of MorningDawn Lodge #7 in Gallipolis, he is a 33rd Degree Mason and member of the Valley ofCincinnati.

The classes continued to drawoutstanding individuals. For example, inChillicothe, Marty V. Donini, Sheriff ofScioto County; Ronald D. Ward, Sheriffof Highland County; and Roger A.Moore, Chillicothe Police Captain, allwere members of the class. Harvey S.Minton, the mayor of Worthington, wasin the Columbus class.

The event in Chillicothe was held inthe Majestic Theatre, the very buildingwhere a handful of Lodges met in 1808to form the Grand Lodge of Ohio.

Robert A. Hinshaw, senior PastGrand Master in our Grand Lodge andGrand Secretary Emeritus, returned to

Ohio from his home in North Carolinato be the mentor for his grandson,Christopher Ennis, who was part of the One-Day Class in Zanesville.

Hiram Lodge #18 in Delaware,welcomed a diverse group of newmembers in the One-Day Class,including brethren born in Lithuania,Greece, Germany, France, and India.

Ohio Valley Lodge #536 with about95 total members, had 20 newcandidates in this year’s One-Day Class,which represents a membership increaseof more than 20 percent. Then, at theLodge’s next stated meeting, 38brethren were in attendance.

Additional details onBob Evans

With the second Grand Master’sOne-Day Class now history, many are asking, “What happened to themembers of that first One-Day Class a year ago?”

On April 27, 2002, approximately7,750 men became Master Masons inOhio at 10 different locations. Arethey active today? Have they becomeintegral parts of their Lodges? Havethey fallen away?

Lodge Survey ConductedA survey of Lodges by Grand

Secretary George O. Braatz hasfound that eight percent of 2002One-Day Class members arecurrently serving in officer stations in their Lodges.

About 322, or 58 percent, of the556 Lodges in the Grand Lodge ofOhio have responded to the survey. In those Lodges responding, a total of 384 new officers have been produced from membership in the One-Day Class.

And these new officers are doingmore than just occupying a chair.There have been numerous examplesof One-Day Class candidates fromlast year presenting “outstanding”degree lectures at Lodge inspectionsthis year.

A more impressive statistic fromthe survey is that 67 percent ofLodges in Ohio today have officerswho joined in the One-Day Class in

2002. The effort has obviously beenhelpful to them.

Good Lodge AttendanceThe survey also has shown that

19 percent of the candidates in theOne-Day Class are attending Lodgeregularly. This means that, because ofthe One-Day Class alone, attendancehas increased by nearly 1,000brethren across Ohio.

Several veteran Masonic observerscommented that these surveystatistics are improvements overhistoric trends, based on traditionalinitiations. No statistics are availablefrom previous years regardingattendance or moving quickly intoofficer duties.

Survey ResultsA survey was taken last year of the

2002 one-day candidates on the daythey experienced the degree work. Here are some of the results:

• 55 percent of the 2002 classwere under 45 years of age; 30percent were under 35, and eight percent were under 25.

• 69 percent had attendedcollege; 36 percent had collegedegrees; 12 percent hadgraduate school degrees.

• 33 percent of petitions weresigned by relatives; 63 percent by a friend; four percent by both.

• Five percent are seniorDeMolays.

• 56 percent of the candidatescame from Masonic families.

• 49 percent of the class werejoining Freemasonry with a friend; 34 percent were joiningwith a relative.

Also, the 2002 one-day MasterMasons were asked two questionsrelated to their motivation forbecoming part of the One-Day Class.

How important is theshortened time (one day) forreceiving the degrees?

Ninety-one percent said it wasimportant (59 percent veryimportant; 32 percent somewhatimportant). Eight percent said it wasnot important.

How important is the removal of the memory work?

Sixty-nine percent said it wasimportant (29 percent veryimportant; 40 percent somewhatimportant). Twenty-eight percent said it was not important.

The discouraging statistic is that less than one percent of the membersof the class were suspended fornonpayment of dues this year. Someof this may be the result of poorcommunications or lack of trainingon the responsibility for paying dues.

Cleaning, packing, loading atruck, unpacking, making newfriends… a move to a retirementcommunity can be both excitingand stressful. Amid the boxes andclutter are precious mementos andmemories. Deciding what to moveto your new home or apartment,and what to do with everything elseisn’t always easy. And what aboutafter the move? Often relocationmeans choosing another physician,another bank, another grocerystore and dry cleaner.

The marketing staff at WesternReserve Masonic Communityunderstands these concerns. Our caring staff stand by each newresident from the time they pickout their new home or apartmentto well after the move-in day.

Assuring the move-in needs are met is different for each newresident. From locating the nearestgolf course to finding a dogwalking service, the WRMC

marketing staff has the answers orwill find them.

Fulfilling residents’ needs andcreating a high comfort level withthe move is what the marketingstaff at WRMC specializes in.Resident Corky Farwell summed itall up when she moved into thecommunity and sent the followingnote to the marketing staff:

Dear Beth and Sue,Thank you for all your help in

getting me settled here. I reallyappreciate all your care and concerns for me. I love it here already and myhusband is getting excellent care too. I feel so fortunate to be here in sucha nice facility.

I’m sure Western ReserveMasonic Community will be fillingup to capacity very soon and you willbe very busy!

SincerelyCorky Farwell

Beacon / Spring 2003 11

Thank You ForYour GenerosityWe offer our gratefulappreciation to the estates,individuals, groups, or otherMasonic bodies who havesupported The Ohio MasonicHome with donations givenbetween January 1, 2003 and March 31, 2003.

$10,000+

Gertrude BellC.E. BristerWalter FrankGeorge R. Geddes, Jr.Pauline Hansen Myron & Dorothy Seifert

$2,000+

Albert L. BallingerDallas & Helen BowyerThomas R. BrickOrlando DavisMeridian Sun Lodge #69George K. MossBetty H. OberleMary Olethia PetersenHoward M. SheelerKenneth R. SterrettPaul M. Williams

$1,000+

AASR - Valley of DaytonAlpha Lodge #729G.D. & B.J. ArtersGrace L. ConeEly Lodge #424Groveport Lodge #240Bessie V. HoslerJohn JacksyMedina Lodge #58Millennium Lodge #779Neale W. ParkerRalph R. Rickly Lodge #670Robinson Locke Lodge #659

Associates help residentsadjust to new community

Members of the Medina CorvetteClub will zoom on campus Saturday,July 5 for a Corvette Club Car Showfrom 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Otherarea corvette club members and theirvehicles and the public will join them.

Richard Hoover, a patio homeresident, will display his 1998 Corvettefor campus and guest car enthusiasts to enjoy.

WRMC will also host theAssociation of Ohio PhilanthropicHomes, Housing and Services for theAging (AOPHA), regional Art Showand Writing Contest, July 22 through24. Residents of regional not-for-profitretirement communities, assisted living,and health care centers will participateand attend the event.

Every year WRMC residents havewon honors for their entries in variouscategories. Everyone is invited toattend the event and view the beautifulartwork, handiwork, and writing of the very talented area residents.

Western Reserve MasonicCommunity is honored to host theseregional activities and events, andwelcomes you to attend. For moreinformation about current and plannedWRMC events, please call BethWilkison at 866/433-1514.

WRMC action events calendar

WRMC resident Richard Hoover willdisplay his 1998 Corvette at the CorvetteClub Car Show, Saturday, July 5, on theWRMC campus.

friends. Ohio residents continue toenjoy a rate of 5.9 cents per minute in state and 4.9 cents per minute onout-of-state long distance rates.

These rates are good 24 hours aday and seven days a week. There arealso low international rates available.There are no monthly fees associatedwith this program nor are there anyfees for switching from your currentlong distance provider.

If for whatever reason you need tochange your local number while you

are enrolled in this program, be sureto inform PowerNet Global of thischange. This will ensure that you willcontinue to receive these great rates.For more information or to enroll inthe long distance program please call866/833-4530 and mention the“Masons of Ohio Program.”

The Grand Lodge UtilitiesProgram has been established in an attempt to capture cheaper rates from participating utility or resalecompanies for natural gas and long

distance telephone to benefit themembers and families of OhioMasons. There is an additional benefit in that the Grand LodgeCharitable Foundation receives a percentage of all monies billed for services.

Non-Profit Org.U.S. PostagePAIDPermit No. 2609Columbus, OH

The Ohio Masonic Home2655 W.National RoadSpringfield, Ohio 45504-3698Web site: www.ohiomasonichome.orgWeb site: www.freemason.com

The Beacon isPublished QuarterlyPlease report all changes of address toyour Lodge Secretary, who, in turn, willnotify the Grand Secretary, who maintainsthe database that produces The BEACONmailing labels.

The Ohio Masonic Home includesMasonic Health Care, Inc.; MasonicRetirement Village, Inc.; and theBenevolent Endowment Foundation, Inc.,at the Springfield campus; the BrowningMasonic Community, Inc., in Waterville;the Masonic Eastern Star Community, Inc.,in Cincinnati; and the Western ReserveMasonic Community, Inc., in Medina.

Jerry Guess, APR The Ohio Masonic Home, Director of Public Relations2655 W. National RoadSpringfield, OH 45504-3698937/525-3074jguess@ohiomasonichome.org

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

CEO Message (continued from page 2)

can know and appreciate every aspect ofevery issue. Instead, concerned anddedicated legislators look to the peoplein their communities who have hands-on knowledge and experience toprovide critical information andperspectives – people like you. Ratherthan being an undesirable and negativeinfluence, “special interests” are often anecessary, positive element ofrepresentative democracy, the seeds ofthe grassroots from which healthypublic policy grows. “Special interests”are you, your neighbor, the postman,and the businesswoman across town –each of them, and all of us, have aspecial investment, a “special interest,”and a special role to play in the people’sgovernment.(Excerpt from the AOPHA 2003 Public Policy Guide)

Every Ohio Mason has individualinterests that stretch well beyond

housing and healthcare issues. But,given our average age statewide of 64, I think those issues would have someinterest. The Ohio Masonic Home doesnot support any single type of care orservice. We support efficiency in use oftax dollars and in providing choice toconsumers. Please speak to your localand national legislators in our effort topreserve current funding for serviceswhile investing in new and better waysto meet the needs of the coming tidalwave of seniors.

Speaker and writer Dan Millmansaid, “Energy follows thought; we movetoward, but not beyond, what we canimagine.” Let’s work to imagine whatcan be done for all of us.

Of course, “It’s our job to pay!”Let’s make sure we design the bestvehicle. If we don’t, none of us canafford the price.

Utilities (continued from page 9)