The Ohio Masonic Home’s ScholarshipCommittee is now accepting scholarshipapplications from orphaned children ofOhio Masons.

Scholarship application forms andinstructions are available upon request atthe following address: The Ohio MasonicHome Scholarship Program, P.O. Box 120,Springfield, Ohio 45501.

Approved by The Home’s Board of Trustees last year, the scholarshipendowment was created to offer annual tuition assistance to children of deceased Masons. To qualify, a studentmust be making satisfactory progress in abachelor’s, associate’s or otherundergraduate degree program at aqualifying institution.

To be eligible for consideration, applicantsmust:

• Have graduated from a high school orpassed the GED.

• Be at least 16 and not more than 22years of age at the time of application.

• Be the son or daughter of a deceasedMason who, at the time of his death,had achieved the degree of EnteredApprentice, Fellowcraft or MasterMason and who was in good standingwith the Grand Lodge of Ohio, F.&A.M.

• Maintain a grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.

• Enroll on a full-time basis at aqualifying institution beforefunds are distributed.

On October 19, 2003, New EnglandLodge #4 reaches a milestone fewlodges see — its 200th Anniversary!

Originally chartered as New England#48 by the Grand Lodge ofConnecticut, the lodge moved toWorthington in 1803 with the SciotoCompany, the original settlers. In 1808,New England and five other lodgesformed the Grand Lodge of Ohio.

Right Worshipful Brother JamesKilbourne was not only the leader ofthose settlers but was also the firstWorshipful Master of New EnglandLodge and, later, Deputy Grand Masterof the Grand Lodge of Ohio.

The history of the lodge isintertwined with the history of thecommunity and, to this day, the lodgeenjoys a very close relationship withcommunity officials and organizations.

Among the events and momentoesplanned for this bicentennial celebration

are a souvenir coin and clothapron (a leather version ofthe apron is available) plus a more than 250 pageupdated lodge history hasbeen created to rememberthe year.

Earlier this year, RWBTim Strawn, Chairman ofthe Anniversary Committee,and WB Dick Snow, LEO,traveled to the Grand Lodgeof Connecticut to presentmementoes to the GrandLodge which gave birth toNew England Lodge. Theypresented a framed,commemorative leatherapron and photos of NewEngland’s original Lodgehall, the oldest continuously operating Masonic Templewest of the Appalachian Mountains

and now the museum/meeting roomoperated by Grand Lodge.

Summer 2003 VOLUME 10, ISSUE 3

BEACON200 years old … and still goin’ strong!

see page 4 for more!

continued on page 3

continued on page 5

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

Huge stainless steel Square & Compasses is featured on float in Worthington’s Bicentennial parade on July 5. The State of Ohio, City of Worthington, and New England Lodge #4 all observe 200th birthdays in 2003.

Exclusive to orphaned children of Ohio Masons

OMH starts scholarship program Masons celebrateHome Day 2003!

UNIQUE SOUNDS –The bagpipe conductorleads his musicians past The Home’s “iconbuilding, Bushnell Hall.”

Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassieonce said, “Throughout history ithas been the inaction of those whocould have acted, the indifference ofthose who should have knownbetter, the silence of the voice ofjustice when it mattered most, thathas made it possible for evil totriumph.”

At its 73rd annual meeting inRichmond, Virginia., this year, The Masonic HomesExecutives’ Association of North America (MHEANA)addressed “Creating Traditions of Quality.”

From the mid-19th century through the second decade of the 20th century, Masons across our great land embarkedon the construction of facilities for the care of orphaned andneedy children as well as the elders of the craft. That missionhas expanded and modified during the past century. Traditionsof caring quality have been the hallmark of our effort longbefore the advent of government reimbursement orphilanthropic foundation. I would like to share with you the state of care in our Masonic Homes.

Currently, 43 facilities are members of our nationalMasonic group with the majority also carrying membership in the state and national nonprofit associations dedicated to advancing the quality of life for all senior citizens. Themajority of these facilities specialize in elderly care and servicesincluding nursing care, assisted living, independent apartmentsand homes, as well as home community-based services. They range in size from 50 to more than 1,300 units andseven of the locations continue to provide assistance forchildren. Here are the benchmarks that illustrate what

Masonic Homes provide.Masonicare, located in Wallingford, Connecticut, provides

housing and healthcare to more than 1,000 residents on threecampuses in a state with only 12,000 Masons. What is evenmore remarkable are the more than 25 Home Health Careagencies serving Masons and others in need statewide. Whocould have envisioned more than 100 years ago the depth and breath of this service.

The Masonic Home of Pennsylvania provides care andservices to more than 2,000 Pennsylvania Masons and theirfamilies at four sites in the Keystone state. A shining exampleof quality market rate housing, the Elizabethtown-basedorganization maintains sizable waiting lists for their highquality and innovative programs and the new Sewickleycampus, just outside Pittsburgh, offers the best in innovative programs.

The North Carolina Masonic Home for Children inOxford is undergoing a dramatic expansion, nearly doublingtheir capacity and providing a safe and healthy home forchildren in need.

We in Ohio can point to the faithfulness to mission by thevolume of charitable assistance we provide. No where have Iseen the commitment to the customer, regardless of theirability to play so faithfully carried out.

Writer James Dillet Freeman once said, “We have thepower, knowledge, and equipment to build a world beyondour wonder. Only loss of nerve can defeat us.” Our forefatherspossessed all those characteristics as they developed a system of facilities which now care for more than 25,000 individualseach day. Let us have the knowledge and nerve to make itadditionally prosper. They have given us the power and theequipment to do nothing less.

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

Beacon / Summer 20032

What an honor it has been to beGrand Master of The Grand Lodgeof F. & A.M. of Ohio. I want tothank all the members for thecourtesies they have shown me —not only as the Grand Master, butalso over the years as I have come upthrough the Grand Lodge Line.

This year, as Grand Master, thetime has flown by so fast. It is hard

to believe that we will soon be gathering in Dayton, Ohio, forour Annual Communication (October 17-18, 2003).

This is my last opportunity to prepare an article for theBeacon. I want to thank all the Brethren and their ladies, whomade Delores and I feel welcome at the Grand Master’sreceptions, which were held in each of our 25 districts.

I congratulate all the new members that have joined ourfraternity during this past year. I hope you are finding time toattend and become active in your lodge. This is a good way tomake new friendships, which last a lifetime.

A beautiful day was had by all, who attended the OhioMasonic Home Day on June 8. Families and their friends fromthroughout the state gathered together at Springfield for thisspecial occasion. They all enjoyed the food, parade, andentertainment. This appeared to be one of the largest crowdsfor this annual event. A big thank you to all, who worked sohard to make this a successful day.

I want to thank all that made donations to our GrandLodge Charities. Through your help, on June 20 at theopening of the Ohio Special Olympics Games in Columbus,we were able to present a check for $115,000 to support theathletes. This was a heart-warming experience.

My Brethren, this has been a wonderful year for me and forthat I am eternally grateful. I thank each of you for yoursupport and for allowing me to be your Grand Master. You allhave played an important part in “Building a BrighterTomorrow.”

In closing, let me say I thank you for your courtesies, yourkindness, and most of all your friendship.

May God bless each of you and may God blessFreemasonry!

A MESSAGE FROM THE GRAND MASTER

MASONIC FACILITIES PROVIDE!

by William P. Mayberry, Sr., Grand Master

Beacon / Summer 2003 3

200 Years (continued from page 1)

The Lodge’s inspection in the EA degree waspresented with the officers in colonial costume, withmore than 250 attendees, including all the lodges of the14th District, visitors from 16 lodges and 6 statesoutside the District and our special guests, RightWorshipful Brother Kilbourne (portrayed by MWBRollie Lattanner, PGM) and Grand Master William P.Mayberry, Sr.

On July 5th, 52 brethren marched as NewEnglanders in Worthington’s bicentennial parade. As the parade units were organized by age in thecommunity, the Lodge’s unit was #10, actually the

first communityunit, followingOhio’sbicentennialwagon trainwagons andcolor guard. A beautiful float, acclaimedto be the nicestin the parade,depicted thescene of an early Lodgemeeting with local historicalcharacters,including RWBKilbourne, andfeatured an 10-foot-high,stainless steel,revolving squareand compasses.

Remainingevents include apresentation onSeptember 25that 7:30 p.m. in

the lodge by Dr. Steven Bullock, a recognized authority on Freemasonry in the late 1700’s – mid 1800’s on:The Impact of Fraternalism on Colonial America. This presentation is the Lodge’s gift to the communityfor their mutual anniversary and is a recognizedWorthington bicentennial event.

On October 25th, the lodge will be reconsecrated by the Grand Lodge officers at 2 p.m. and, thatevening, will conclude its special events with ananniversary dinner (ticket required and available fromthe lodge) at Aladdin Shrine Center. All brethren arewelcome to attend these events. Contact the lodge for further information.

Needless to say, the lodge’s more than 480 membersare proud of their significant history and look forward to giving the lodge’s third century a strong,healthy start.

Charles E. Zepp, Junior Warden, ofNew England Lodge, polishes the 10-foot-high Square and Compassesbefore the parade. The "Letter G"has a mirror-like finish. The entireemblem rotates twice per minute on its base.

How well do you know Ohio’s Past Grand Masters? Doyou know which Grand Master disappeared without a trace?Which two were father and son-in-law?

For the answers to these questions, and others, you cannow visit a new section of the Grand Lodge Web site. Go towww.freemason.com and click on “Grand Masters.”

There you will find pictures and biographies of Ohio’s PastGrand Masters. The information, gathered by W.B. RichardHelpman of New England Lodge #4, is full of interestingfacts about each man. Discover a bit more about the menbehind the collar and jewel.

Betty Montgomery, Ohio’s first woman Attorney Generaland now Ohio’s State Auditor, has received the Rufus PutnamDistinguished Service Award from the Freemasons of Ohio.

Montgomery is the 16th recipient of the award in its 24-year history.

Montgomery, who grew up in Northwestern Ohio, beganher legal career as a criminal clerk in the Lucas CountyCommons Pleas Court, then subsequently served as anassistant prosecuting attorney in Wood County, PerrysburgCity Prosecutor, and Wood County Prosecuting Attorney. In 1988, Montgomery was elected to the Ohio Senate, in1994, she was elected Ohio Attorney General, and in 2002,she was elected Ohio State Auditor.

The Rufus Putnam Award is named after the first GrandMaster of Masons in Ohio, who served in 1808. His publicservice from 1788 to 1824 earned him the title, “Father of the Northwest Territory.” The award was designed tohonor distinguished citizens and community service providers, characteristics encouraged among all members of Freemasonry.

From Rufus to Reynolds

Betty Montgomery receivesDistinguished Service Award from Ohio Freemasons

Grand Secretary George O. Braatz presents the Rufus PutnamAward plaque to Betty Montgomery in her office.

4 Beacon / Summer 2003

Home Day a resounding successA near record 2,000 Masons and

their families visited the Springfieldcampus to enjoy “Home Day” withthe residents, associates and othervisitors on Sunday, June 8.

After Worship Services visitorsstarted taking numerous campus tourswhile others enjoyed the picnic-stylefood. Some folks went immediately tothe entertainment tent to enjoy theIrish dancers and later song stylist JackGarrett, while others made a bee lineto see the 42 classic and vintage cars

and trucks on display while listeningto 40’s and 50’s music provided by alocal DJ.

One of the largest Shrine Parades,courtesy of the Nobles of Antioch,Syrian, and Aladdin Shrine was rushedto start earlier than scheduled to avoida pending rain. Just after the welcomeremarks and presentations were made,the rain arrived and ended an almostperfect weather day.

The Home Day Committee extendsits appreciation to all the campus

residents, associate volunteers,entertainers, off-campus volunteers,the Masonic organizations thatprovided the refreshments, and theNobles of Antioch, Syrian, andAladdin Shrine for sharing theirenthusiasm, excitement and smiles.

Mark your 2004 calendars nowbecause next year this event will beheld at one of The Home’s northerncampuses, Western Reserve MasonicCommunity, in Medina, on Sunday,June 6. See you there!

PRINCE HALL BRETHERN VISIT HOME DAY – PrinceHall’s Right Worshipful District Deputy Grand LecturerJerry D. Springer (far left) from Equity Lodge #121,District 4, and many Prince Hall brethren and theirfamilies attended Home Day. The Chairman of the OhioMasonic Home’s Board of Trustees, Most ExcellentCompanion William M. Berry, 33° (second from left),Illustrious Brother William A. Harrell, 33°, Chairman ofThe Home’s Benevolent Endowment Foundation, andThe Home’s Chief Executive Officer Joseph (Jerry) B.Kuyoth, Jr. (far right), extend a warm welcome to RWB Springer.

PARADE READY – A youngman entertains Pathwaysresidents and associateswhile waiting for the paradeunits to arrive.

DEDICATION PLAQUE – BrowningMasonic Community’s Director ofMarketing, Gary McElfresh (far left),presents a plaque from Rubicon Lodge#237 in honor of the Past Master ofRubicon Lodge and Past Grand Masterof Masons in Ohio, MWB LeanderBurdick. Brother Burdick served asPresident of The Home’s Board ofTrustees and helped lay the Bushnellcornerstone in 1892. Masonic HealthCare’s Burdick Tower is named afterBrother Burdick. Accepting the plaqueis The Home’s Chairman of the Boardof Trustees, Most Excellent CompanionWilliam M. Berry, 33°, Masonic HealthCare President, Marion Leeman, andThe Home’s CEO Jerry Kuyoth.

THE ROYAL WAVE – These mini-Corvette driversundergo hours of training to perfect the “Royal Wave”and one-hand parade driving skills necessary to excitethe crowds.

CELEBRITY GUEST – OrvilleWright cycled to Home Daywhile Wilbur stayed inDayton to prepare for theInventing Flight Celebration

5Beacon / Summer 2003

John Bryan, The Home’s officialphotographer for more than 25 years, wassurprised on Home Day when Chief ExecutiveOfficer Joseph (Jerry) B. Kuyoth, Jr., askedBryan to join him on stage.

Kuyoth presented Brother Bryan with aplaque and announced June 8, 2003, to be“John Bryan Day” at The Home in recognitionof Bryan’s years as a volunteer photographer.

The plaque read in part, “The Ohio MasonicHome hereby thanks Brother John Bryan for his tireless, dedicated efforts and countlessthousands of hours of service in this importantcapacity…May all who know him join with TheOhio Masonic Home in this statement of oursincere, fraternal thanks for a job well done.”

Bryan, a former professional photographer inSpringfield, sold his commercial photo businessin 1978 and retired. Then he startedvolunteering his time to photograph TheHome’s events and activities. He has anextensive 20+ year photographic archive thattells the story of The Home, its residents and associates.

Bryan’s award winning photography has been the primary photographicsource for past corporate annual reports and the quarterly newsletter. He alsoestablished a process for residents to view and order copies of his photos for their personal enjoyment.

Lucille, Bryan’s wife, is also an active volunteer at The Home and has servedas a receptionist, visitor greeter, and assisted her husband catalogue the largephotographic archive of photo negatives and prints.

The Bryan’s were the first residents to move into the refurbished ApartmentsAt Cunningham Place. They now live in Hillman Manor.

Brother Bryan has been a Mason for more than 54 years and is a member ofthe York and Scottish Rites and active in The Home’s High Twelve Club #483.

Although Brother Bryan has retired a second time, he still has a camera readyto capture those special moments.

Home Day proclaimed ‘John Bryan Day’

JOHN BRYAN DAY – OMH CEOJerry Kuyoth declares Home Day,June 8, 2003, to be John BryanDay in honor of Brother Bryan’sphotographic support to TheHome and the Masonic Fraternity

GRAND LODGE OFFICERS – TheGrand Master of the Grand Lodgeof Ohio, Most Worshipful BrotherWilliam P. Mayberry, Sr. and theGrand Lodge Officers lead theShrine Parade.

INDIANA CHEF – To cook the bestfood, every master chief needs the necessary tools… sunglasses, an Indiana Jones style hat and a beeper.

• Submit a legible, completedapplication formaccompanied by:

• A copy of signed federaltax forms 1040 for themost recent year.

• A copy of the letter of acceptance from the schoolyou will be attending.

• A two-page essay writtenby the student summarizingpersonal and academicbackground, honors,awards, services, co-curricular activities andcareer plans.

• A letter of recommendationfrom a high school teacher,principal or guidancecounselor.

• A letter from the Secretaryof the father’s Lodgeverifying “good standing.”

All awards will be paid directlyto the school. Any tuition refunds,discounts, or rebates, up to theamount of the annual award, must be returned to the Scholarship Fund.

Each scholarship award will befor one academic year and theaward will not exceed $3,000 orthe cost of tuition. Applicants maynot receive more than fivescholarship awards from this fund.

The Home transferred $500,000from funds received from theEntered Apprentice assessment feethat had been reserved by theGrand Lodge of Ohio and, whichwas released by code change in the 192nd Grand LodgeCommunication, to start anendowment fund for thisscholarship program.

All awards will be determined by a three-person ScholarshipCommittee.

Scholarship (continued from page 1)

Beacon / Summer 20036

A total donation of $115,000 waspresented to the Ohio SpecialOlympics on behalf of the Masons ofOhio to support the athletes at theannual summer games in Columbus.

“The gift was possible because ofthe dedicated efforts of Lodges andMasons from around Ohio,” saidGrand Master William P. Mayberry,Sr., who made the presentation at theopening ceremonies on June 20.

“Once again,” according toMichael Cecil, statewide chairman forthe Grand Lodge Special Olympics,“this demonstrates the commitment ofOhio’s Freemasons to contribute tothis worthy cause and make it easierfor these nearly 3,000 ‘special’ athletesto enjoy their annual competition.”

Since 1978, Ohio Masons havecontributed $1.7 million to thisworthy cause. The last several yearshave seen annual contributions

totaling well over$100,000.

Several hundredMasons led the annualParade of Athletes to kick-off the Summer Games onJune 20 at the JesseOwens Sports Complex onThe Ohio State Universitycampus. Grand MasterMayberry was assisted inthe check presentation bytwo Ohio SpecialOlympians: Paul Carpentera member of PickawayLodge #23 and MichaelBaltes a member of ArgusLodge #545.

Many Lodges had beenworking for months toreach their contribution goals.Hosting spaghetti dinners or pancakebreakfasts are two of the favorite ways

for Lodges to raise the money for this worthy charity. It cost roughly$60 to sponsor an athlete to thesummer games.

The 2003 Annual Communicationof the Grand Lodge of F.&A.M. of Ohio will be held in the DaytonMasonic Center on October 17 and 18.

Information for all delegates andvisitors has been sent to theSecretaries of each Symbolic Lodge in Ohio.

Following are legislative topics thatwill be considered at Grand Lodgethis year:

• Instituting an “HistoricalLodge” system

• Mandatory retirement forLodge Secretaries over age70, or after 10 years of service

• Changing the effective datefor suspending a member fornon-payment of dues fromDecember 31 until March 31

• Permitting Lodge business tobe held in the EnteredApprentice Degree

• Allowing alcohol in any roomnot dedicated to Freemasonry

• Permitting Grand Master tosuspend a Brother who hascommitted a crime until hehas been tried

• Requiring all Ohio Lodges to include “Masonic” in their names

• Limiting frequency of a Grand Master’s Class to no more than once every four years

Ohio Masons contribute $115,000 to Special Olympics

Grand Lodge Session October 17-18 in DaytonSeveral legislative topics under consideration

Grand Master William P. Mayberry, Sr., at the lecturn,presents the ceremonial check for $115,000,representing this year's support from Ohio Masons for the annual Special Olympics Summer Games.Special Olympics athletes are seen in the background.

Church cornerstone laidLed by Grand MasterWilliam P. Mayberry, Sr.,wearing top hat, adelegation of Masonslaid the cornerstone forCrestview PresbyterianChurch on June 1, 2003.The Masonic ceremonywas held on Sundaymorning, in conjunctionwith the church’sworship services.

Worthington Mayor joins Masonry in One-Day ClassHarvey S. Minton, right,Mayor of Worthington,Ohio, became a MasterMason on March 22during the one-day classin Columbus. Ronald L.Winnett, left, GrandMarshal of the GrandLodge of Ohio,welcomes him.

Beacon / Summer 2003 7

MasonicHome Day on Sunday,June 8th was, again, a wonderfulday ofcelebrationhere in

Springfield. One of the things thatmade it so special…despite anafternoon downpour…was theopportunity to do something thathadn’t occurred on this campus for 80 years! That special thing was theofficial naming of one of our campusfacilities*…the first named for alady…a very special lady!

As the result of a major gift to The Home from Illustrious BrotherLyle W. Castle, 33°, the Dining Roomof our Community Center was namedin honor and memory of his late wife,Kathleen. Because of Kathleen’s longtime dedication to Eastern Star,Illustrious Brother Castle wanted to find a special way to remember her at The Home, a place that he and Kathleen felt was unique. Afterdiscussing several possible options fornaming, he chose the Dining Room

because of Kathleen’s loveof cooking and theroom’s integralinvolvement in the day-to-day social life of thecampus. “Kathleen lovedpeople, especially herEastern Star sisters, andwas always trying to behelpful to them”, saidIllustrious Brother Castle.“She would be pleased to know such a specialand important area in the life of the residents of the Masonic Home…a place she regarded very highly…now bears her name.”

A formal dedicationceremony on Home Day,included remarks from Brother JerryKuyoth, CEO; Illustrious BrothersWilliam M. Berry, 33°, Chairman ofthe Home’s Board of Trustees andWilliam A. Harrell, 33°, Chairman ofthe Endowment Foundation’s Boardof Trustees. Although IllustriousBrother Castle, who now lives inFlorida, could not be present, he madetouching remarks via speakerphone.

Among the attendeeswere several members ofKathleen’s Eastern StarChapter, Lebanon #343.Several weeks later, adozen of Kathleen’sEastern Star sisters (andone Brother!) enjoyed acelebratory luncheon in “her” dining room!

Naming andrecognitionopportunities areavailable at a widevariety of gift levelsthroughout The OhioMasonic Home’s several campuses. For more informationabout this very specialway to remember or

honor a loved one, contact RWB TimStrawn in the Foundation office toll-free at 1-888-248-2664.

*The last original building namingoccurred in 1923 when the hospital on campus was named for IllustriousBrother Ralph R. Rickly, 33°, whoprovided the gift that enabled thebuilding to be constructed.

FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTUREThe Kathleen B. Castle Dining Roomby Timothy B. Strawn CAE, President, The Ohio Masonic Home Benevolent Endowment Foundation, Inc.

The Ohio Masonic Home’s Annual Report for 2002 isnow available from the Public Relations Department.

To order a copy or copies for your Lodge, e-mail arequest with the mailing address and the number of copiesrequested to jguess@ohiomasonichome.org. You may alsomail a request to The Ohio Masonic Home, PublicRelations Dept., 2655 West National Road, Springfield,Ohio, 45504-3698. Please include the number of copiesneeded and a return mailing address.

The 2002 Report is dedicated to The Home’sassociates, who are the cornerstone of our mission.

They represent our largest investment and our most important resource. Stakeholders will find an accountability of their financial support to The

Home, and The Home’s stewardship of those resources to provide affordable,quality health care and retirement services.

Key messages from The Chairman of the Board of Trustees, the ChiefExecutive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, and others explain The Home’srecent accomplishments, and its future challenges.

If you have any questions, please call the Public Relations Department at (937) 525-3074.

Annual Report highlights OMH activities

Located at the entrance tothe Community Center’sKathleen B. Castle DiningRoom is the dedicationplaque and a photograph of Kathleen B. Castle.

Ever want to play golf witha sports celebrity? RememberJim Perry, Gary Bell, HalNaragon, Milt Plum, Jim“Mudcat” Grant, BertCampaneris, Darrell Imhoff,Tom Sneva, Ryne Duren, VernLaw and Jim O’Toole? Theseand 19 more stars of yesteryearwill be in Springfield for theEndowment Foundation’s firstgolf event on September 19 &20 to benefit The Home.Single slots and threesomes(the celebrity makes four!) arestill available—but not forlong! For more information,call Brother Ken Hershberger toll-free in the Foundationoffice at 1-888-248-2664.

Hey, Sports Fan Golfers!

Beacon / Summer 20038

An Ohio Mason and book authorwill be bringing out a new publicationabout Masons in the “Wild West.”

Dale Pierce was born in Akron, butgrew up in Arizona. He joinedGlendale Lodge #23, in Arizona, andin 1998 demitted to New PhiladelphiaLodge #177 in Ohio, and directseducational programs in the Lodge.His uncles, father and grandfatherwere members of various Lodges inthe Akron area.

He has authored numerousmagazine, newspaper and Internetarticles, plus three “horror” novels.But his nonfiction works may be ofmore interest to Masons.

Wild West Characters, written in1991 and still in print and available in

libraries, includes information on suchMasons as Phin Clanton, MorrisGoldwater, Tom Mix, George Hunt,Kit Carson, and others. Find A PlaceTo Die, A Pictorial History of Deathin the West is also available. Itincludes photos of gravesites, profilesand obituaries, including such Masonsas Blackjack Pershing, Sam Houston,George Hunt, Frank Gotch, andothers.

Brother Pierce has long wanted todo a book on Masonry in the WildWest, but could not find a publisher.So he had to be satisfied withincluding “bios” of Masonic brethrenalong with a group of unsavorycharacters, such as Billy the Kid, JohnWesley Hardin, Deacon Jim Miller,

Doc Holliday and others. Now, a publisher has agreed to

print a series of small booklets byBrother Pierce on a number ofsubjects, including Masonry in theWest.

“There’s tons of people I want toinclude,” the author said. “Zeb Pike,Albert Pike, Dr. John Maynard, JohnWayne, Will Rogers, Rex Allen,Franklin Talby, George Hunt, MorrisGoldwater, Kit Carson, Bill Cody,Wild Bill Hickock, and others. TheMasonic Lodge flourished in thewestern era and I’m finally going tobe able to cover it like I have wantedto since becoming a Mason.”

Fifty children from across the statemet as strangers at Craftsmen Park inAkron on a June Sunday afternoonand parted as best friends days later.

At the weeklong camp — theannual Capstone Camp for “at-risk”children, sponsored by the GrandLodge of Ohio — the youth learnedskills to help them developrelationships, learn respect and takeresponsibilities.

The camp is a new part of theGrand Lodge’s Masonic ModelStudent Assistance Training, whichhelps school personnel learn toidentify and help at-risk children.

Most of the 50 campers this yearwere referred by the schools theyattend. This year’s camp wassupported, in addition to funds fromthe Grand Lodge, by donations fromNew England Lodge #4, WadsworthLodge #385, Pleasant Valley Lodge,#531, and York-Temple Chapter#155, Royal Arch Masons.

“Thank you to all the Masons whomade this possible,” said one parent.“You will never know the changes thatyou have made in the lives of thesechildren.”

‘Wild West’ Masons from Ohio author

Another successfulCapstone Campcompleted

Feeley honored for 50 years of service at St. Albans Lodge

Jack F. Feeley, left, washonored with a dinner in recognition ofperforming theSecretary’s duties of St. Albans Lodge #677,in Youngstown, for ahalf century. Amongpresentations was thiscertificate for longtime,outstanding servicefrom Grand Secretaryand Past Grand MasterGeorge O. Braatz.

New Endowed Memberships flourishThe cost of an EndowedMembership increased to$800 on August 1, 2003.This led to hundreds ofbrethren signing up in thetime period before theprice increase. Oneexample is Shelby Lodge,#350, whose delegation,pictured here, brought in91 new EndowedMemberships in June.From left are Grand Secretary George O. Braatz, Worshipful Master John VanWagner, Grand Master William P. Mayberry, Sr., Lodge Secretary Robert D. Crabbs, and member Billy Wright.

Beacon / Summer 2003 9

More Light About MasonryMore Light About Masonry

James H. Douglas was inaugurated as Governor of Vermont in January 2003. He grew up inMassachusetts and was active in DeMolay there, andcurrently serves as Dean of the Vermont Preceptory,DeMolay Legion of Honor.

Brother and Governor Douglas is a 30-yearmember and Past Master of Union Lodge inMiddlebury, Vermont, and has been active on severalGrand Lodge of Vermont Committees over the years.

Mason becomes Vermont GovernorBuddy Ebsen, movie and television actor, was a

Senior DeMolay from Florida and was inducted into theDeMolay Hall of Fame in 1996. Ebson recently died onJuly 6, 2003.

Ebsen was best known as Jed Clampett on thetelevision series, The Beverly Hillbillies. He also had thetitle role in the series Barnaby Jones. He once said,“Today when I look back, then look around me to seewith whom I am standing, I fully realize the influenceon my life that must be credited to DeMolay.”

Buddy Ebsen was Senior DeMolay

The first President of the UnitedStates, George Washington was raised aMaster Mason on August 4, 1753, inthe Lodge at Fredericksburg, Virginia.

There is no doubt that theceremony 250 years ago had aprofound impact on both the futuresof our nation and our MasonicFraternity.

Brother GeorgeWashington attendednumerous Masonicfunctions and referred toMasonry in his writingsthroughout his life. He took his first oath ofoffice as President on therevered St. John’s Bible,borrowed from a nearbyLodge for the ceremony.

Also, the leadershipWashington displayed inleading the colonies tovictory in theRevolutionary War andguiding the founding ofour nation along a pathof Democracy, wereheavily influenced by theprinciples and precepts helearned and accepted in the Masonic Lodge.

Today, just a mile from the Potomac River in Alexandria, Virginia,

overlooking the nation’s capitol, standsthe 333-foot-high George WashingtonMasonic National Memorial on historicShooters Hill. The Grand Lodge ofOhio, along with the other 50 GrandLodge jurisdictions in the UnitedStates, built and continue to maintainthis impressive memorial to GeorgeWashington, the Mason.

Therefore every Masonin the U.S. is part owner of thismemorial. In Ohio, every newMaster Mason pays $5 tosupport the memorial as part of his initiation fee, and eachOhio Mason annuallycontributes 25 cents from hisper capita fee to the memorial.

In the building’s MemorialHall stands a 17-foot-tallbronze statue, depictingGeorge Washington as theCharter Worshipful Master of Alexandria Lodge. He also remained a member ofFredericksburg Lodge until his death in 1799.

Plan to visit the GeorgeWashington Masonic NationalMemorial with your family andlearn more about our firstPresident and the importanceMasonry played in foundingthis great country.

Our Grand Master, William P.Mayberry, Sr., was recently elected to a three-year term on the Board ofDirectors of the George WashingtonMemorial.

Masons celebrate George Washington’s 250th anniversaryof becoming a Master Mason in Fredericksburg

The George Washington Masonic NationalMemorial impressively commands theskyline in Alexandria, Virginia. It featurestwo elevators that move sideways, anddisplays from most Masonic-relatedorganizations. Ohio Masons have played a key role in the development and continuing maintenance of thislandmark structure.

This 17-foot-highstatue of GeorgeWashington wasdonated by theOrder of DeMolay.

PHOTOS: Copyright The George Washington Masonic National Memorial all rights reserved, Photography by Arthur W. Pierson

Beacon / Summer 200310

Innovative Brotherhood program set in Cincinnati“Bringing Unity into Our

Community” is the theme for a Brotherhood Night, planned for November 22, 2003, in theCincinnati Masonic Center, 317 East Fifth Street.

The event is sponsored byLodges from the Grand Lodge ofOhio and the Prince Hall GrandLodge of Ohio. The event is open

to Masons, their families and thepublic. Reservations and tickets are required.

A dinner will be held at 6:30p.m. The program will include anaddress on the subject ofbrotherhood by three clergymenfrom the Protestant, Catholic andJewish faiths. Music will be providedby the St. Ursula Suave Choir and

the Allen Temple Choir. Severaldistinguished Masons will also speak.Proceeds will be divided among fourcommunity charitable programs.

Tickets for the event are $35 foradults and $15 for youths under 18.For information on reservations, callDavid Fine, co-chairman at513/260-9234.

A decade of service

Richard N. Stradtman, of Sandusky, right, is recognizedfor 10 years of service as a Masonic Representative tothe Ohio Veteran’s Homes. The award is presented byArthur G. Quade, left, chairman and coordinator of theMasonic Service Association Hospital Visitation Programin Ohio.

For the 3rd year in a row, the Grand Lodge Officers havepresented the Pillars of Leadership Program around Ohio toassist the junior officers in preparing for their year asWorshipful Master.

The program was held this year in Springfield,Youngstown, Cambridge, Findlay, and Portsmouth. It coveredthe following topics: Planning your year as Worshipful Master,Managing in the 21st Century, Leadership, Protocol,Masonry and Religion, Duties of the Officers, Focus onFellowship, Masonic Law, Trials and Jurisprudence.

Of great interest to the Senior Wardens in particular wasR.W. Brother Steven J. Krekus’ presentation of the 2004Lodge Awards Program, which will be a challengingassignment for all participating Lodges. Any Lodge seeking toimprove itself should give special attention to this program.

‘Pillars’ Leadership Program,presented in five cities

His performances were very similar for a half acentury – the soft shoe dance, the top hat and cane,and the singing of “Me and My Shadow.” He isremembered by most for his appearances on“Hollywood Place,” and “The Ed Sullivan Show.”

He is Theodore Leopold Friedman, betterknown as Ted Lewis.

He was born on June 6, 1891, in Circleville,Ohio, where his father owned a hardware store.When only 15, he was hired to sing and play hisclarinet at the silent movie theater on South MainStreet.

By 1910 he was in vaudeville, and thenperforming in night clubs, cabarets, hotels, resortsand cafes. By 1917 he was doing a solo act in NewYork City. He played clarinet and alto sax in EarlFuller’s Orchestra and here first used his trademarkline, “Is everybody happy?” It is said that W.C.Fields taught him how to use his hat in his act,when they appeared together in “Ziegfield’sMidnight Follies” in 1919.

Over the years, Ted Lewis cut 108 record sidesfor Columbia, entertained in England and LosAngeles, and appeared in numerous “talkingpictures.” He also entertained with such classicbands as Jimmy Dorsey and Benny Goodman.

In the 1930s and 1940s, he continued to makefilms, such as “Here Comes the Band” and “HoldThat Ghost.” He was a guest on many radio showsand was considered by his contemporaries as astylish showman. He retired after 62 years ofentertaining the public, and died in New York in 1971.

Ted Lewis was a member of St. Cecile Lodge#568 of New York City.

Information for this story was researched andwritten by Brother Norman Lincoln, a member ofCamden Lodge #159, and Boliver Lodge #82.

Mason Ted Lewis begancareer in Circleville

Past Grand Master Thomas D. Zahler, right, chairman of theGrand Lodge Charity Committee, and Worshipful MasterKenneth L. Bussey, left, of Clinton Lodge #47, present aCharitable Foundation check for $2,000 to David Fritz, ofRichville. His 19-month-old daughter required a livertransplant and Ohio Masons helped with those expenses.

Most Worshipful Brother Zahler is presented two five-gallonbottles of pennies – totaling $685 – for the CharitableFoundation from Worshipful Master Larry M. Nicsinger ofCypress Lodge #604 in Strasburg.

Beacon / Summer 2003 11

Charitable program continues

Four Rex generations in Lima

James D. Rex III, right, received his Master Mason degree onMarch 15 in Ft. Amanda Lodge #706, in Lima, and joined severalgenerations from his family in the Lodge. From right, next toJames, are J. Dale Rex II, father and Past Master; James D. Rex,grandfather, Past Master and Past District Deputy Grand Master;Dale B. Rex, great-grandfather and 56-year member; Lester J.Reeder, great-grandfather and 54-year member of Acadia Lodge #306, and John D. Rex, uncle.

Sayre elected tonational post

Kenneth L. Sayre, of Zanesville, has been elected Supreme Watchman of theShepherds for the coming year by theInternational Order of the White Shrineof Jerusalem. This is the highest officefor male members of the Order. RightWorshipful Brother Sayre is a member of the Lodge of Amity #5 in Zanesville,and is a Past District Deputy GrandMaster of the 18th Masonic District. He will be traveling throughout thenation as part of his duties.

Seven Ohio Masonic Homeemployees from two campuses recently received “STAR” status by the Association of Ohio PhilanthropicHomes, Housing & Services for theAging (AOPHA) and the AOPHAResident Forum.

Front-line Ohio staff members ofnot-for-profit aging services providerswere recognized at six regional“STARS Employee RecognitionLuncheons. The employees werenominated and selected for

recognition by residents, familymembers, and associates for theircommitment to service and theirstrong work ethic.

The Masonic Eastern StarCommunity STARS include: PatriciaA. Conn, Marty French, Jerome L.Cook and Veronica Cornelius.Masonic Health Care STARS are: JohnL. Mays, Sandy Stoltz and Amy Herd.

Congratulations to these STARSand to all The Home’s front-lineemployees that are committed to

provide daily, quality health care tothe residents on all four campuses.

AOPHA is a nonprofit organizationthat represents more than 330 Ohiononprofit long-term care facilities.AOPHA-member facilities serve morethan 50,000 residents daily andemploy more than 20,000 people.

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

AOPHA commends OMH STARS

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 withdonations given between April 1, 2003 and June 30, 2003.

$10,000+AASR –Valley ofCincinnati Corrine FlockenBoryczka

C.E. BristerDoric Lodge #172Lillie M. FetzerGeorge R. Geddes, Jr.Nelda E. Grove

Pauline HansenDorothy M. HarigGeorge K. MossMary Olethia Petersen

$2,000+AASR – Valley ofDaytonAASR – Valley ofCleveland

Grand Court Order of the AmaranthEva McCowen KellerRobert Morris ChapterNo. 372, OES

Betty H. OberleVivian H. SchulzeHoward M. Sheeler

$1,000+CFC – Central OhioOrlando W. DavisMemorial to WilliamGarapic by Misc.Donors

Humboldt Lodge #476Larry LaugerMason Lodge #678New Carlisle Lodge#100

Sincerity Lodge #694Tippecanoe Lodge#174Frank R. Williams