Beacon_MayJun06

acing great challenges normallyrequires huge amounts ofstrength, determination,resourcefulness and faith.

Success after severe challenges oftenresults in the building of stronger character.To those who are humbled and inspired bytheir experience, a true desire to help othersbecomes a way of life.

Henry A. Dodson, a Past Master of SolarLodge #730, is a good example. Followinga successful heart transplant in 1997, he hasdedicated himself to helping others. He isan active volunteer with Organ Donationsand Life Connection of Ohio, and haspresented talks on the subject to manychurches, schools, clubs, lodges, chaptersand councils.

“There are more than 91,000 people inthe U.S. waiting for an organ or tissuetransplant,” he said. “And more than 17persons a day die waiting for that transplant.A single donor may provide organs andtissue for more than 50 people in need.”

He shares his story in a letter to fellowMasons (see top right).

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

May/June 2006 VOLUME 13, ISSUE 3

FDayton area Mason helps give ‘life’ to others

Brother Henry Dodson and his wife, Shirley,at their 50th wedding anniversary—acelebration made possible by his successfulheart transplant.

any years ago, when I was 4-years-old and my little sister was 3, weboth developed scarlet fever, which in later years had a damaging effecton my heart. Plus, my father had a fatal heart attack at age 66.

I was destined to have major heart problems in later years. I knew I would have totake care of myself. In doing so, I became a dedicated runner, did not smoke, wasnot overweight and watched my diet to some extent. But in 1982 at age 47, I hada heart attack which led to open heart surgery.

All went well for 15 years, and then in April 1997 at age 62, I needed anotheropen heart operation because my arteries were clogged again. This time thingsdid not go well for I spent many days in recovery and was in and out of the hospitalall spring and summer.

Finally on Sept. 2, 1997, the doctors told me I had very extensive heart damageand may have three to four months to live. They recommended I go to ClevelandClinic in Cleveland, Ohio, for a possible heart transplant. When I heard this I fullybelieved it was the end for me. The pain, sickness and not being able to eat orsleep were so unbearable that I prayed to God to end it all now.

God’s answer to my prayer at that time was “NO.” I was placed on the waitinglist for a heart transplant and after six long miserable weeks, I received my transplanton Oct. 9, 1997, at Cleveland Clinic. My heart donor was a young man of 17 yearsof age. May God rest his soul.

What has this done for me? It is hard to explain in this short space but, if it werenot for that young donor and The Organ Donation Organization, I would not havereceived this gift of life and been able to tell my story.

As for my Masonic Journey prior to my heart transplant, I was High Priest ofMt. Moriah Chapter #230, R.A.M., in 1996 and then my heart problems startedagain in 1997. At that time, I was Worshipful Master of Solar Lodge #730, F.&A.M.,but since the transplant in 1997 to the present time, I have served as IllustriousMaster of Silver Trowel #141, R.&S.M., functioned in the District Officers AssociationThird District, served as District Education Officer Third District, served as DistrictDeputy Grand High Priest Third District R.A.M., Sovereign Master of LawrenceCouncil, A.M.D., served as Eminent Commander of Dayton Commandery #68, andrecently received the Knight of the York Cross of Honour. Also, I have been ableto spend quality time with my family and beautiful wife of over 50 years.

Besides my dedication to the Fraternity, I also volunteer at the National Museumof The United States Air Force in Dayton and for Life Connection of Ohio whichis a very special organization that has helped me and many others who havereceived a transplant and those waiting to receive transplants.

Please remember the next time you renew your driver’s license, say “yes” whenasked if you want to be registered as an organ donor. Be a hero.

Fraternally,

Henry Dodson

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by James M. Williamson, Grand Master

My wife, Sherry, and I made the decisionto focus this year on giving to others bypromoting donations to The Grand LodgeCharitable Foundation, The SpecialOlympics and The Other Place.

Grand Lodge Charitable FoundationThe Charitable Foundation was started

in 1995 by Grand Master Thomas D. Zahlerto aid individuals and families facing naturaldisasters, serious illness or emergencies.Only the interest from this endowmentfund may be used as grants to those inneed. Through Charitable Foundationgrants, the Masons of Ohio have reachedout to assist individuals in need throughoutOhio. So far in 2006, nine grants totaling$12,000 have been awarded. Thank you,Masons of Ohio, for your generousdonations!

Special Olympics Opening CeremonyYou will have an opportunity on Friday,

June 23 to witness an unforgettable event—

A MESSAGE FROM THE GRAND MASTER

A THRIVING FRATERNITY

2 Beacon May/June 2006

In March, our Lodge was inspected inthe Entered Apprentice Degree. There wereover 100 people in attendance, includingThe Grand Master, other Grand Lodgeofficers and past officers, and local friendsand brothers.

The candidate did not know anyonethere. What was he thinking as he receivedhis apron? Was he concerned about howthe Temple Company operates? Was heconcerned about the next fundraiser to paythe bills? My guess is that he did not thinkabout any of those things.

The average lodge in Ohio has 230members, of which 20-25, or about 10percent, come to meetings. The averageage is 60+ and the meetings are aboutpaying bills. There is probably a past masterscorner where they complain about howeverything changed and no one does agood job any more. The new member,whatever age, “should have been herewhen… and never gives his work back right,

like they used to.” Ten percent of the lodgemembers do all the work, give all the moneyand everyone is tired of trying to get thoseother guys to help out. Sound familiar?

Eight years ago, when I received myapron, I was impressed. I heard about whatwould happen as the working tools of lifedropped from my nerveless grasp. “Welldone good and faithful servant…” Thatlecture inspires me to this day.

I know the Lodge has to bring inenough money to pay the bills and keepour credit in good standing. I think it isimportant to build our membership, butnot because we need the money.

There are a lot of men who are searchingfor meaning in their lives, who want morethan health spa memberships, fishing andTiVo. Men who, if inspired by our conducton a daily basis and involved with us inmaking a difference in our community, willwant to join any organization we are a partof and want to wear their apron with pride.

We take the apron away from the enteredapprentice and don’t give it back until theMaster Mason Degree. What do we givethe youngest entered apprentice? He is fullof pride and wonder. He is curious aboutwho we are, what we do and how he canhelp. He needs your help, not your criticism.He needs you to support his curiosity andfeed his enthusiasm. If you do that, ourfraternity will thrive.

Grand Master Frank J. Haas of West Virginia,left, and Ohio’s Grand Master James M.Williamson enjoy a few minutes during theApril Grand Master’s Reception in the 23rdMasonic District, St. Clairsville. Grand MasterHaas has made numerous visits to OhioMasonic meetings “across the river.”

Worshipful Brother David Bannerman spendsa moment with Most Worshipful Brother JimWilliamson at a lodge installation.

by Worshipful Brother David Bannerman, CEO, The Ohio Masonic Home

See G.M. Column, continued on page 13.

the Opening Ceremonies of The OhioSpecial Olympics Summer Games. I ampersonally asking you to join Masons fromthroughout Ohio as we lead the parade ofathletes onto the track of Jesse Owens

Stadium in Columbus. What a message ofsupport we will send to the athletes, theirfamilies and thousands of volunteers if weshow up in large numbers. Without thegenerosity of the Masons throughout thestate, these very special athletes would notbe able to participate, and they don’thesitate to show us their gratitude.

After participating in this ceremony, youwill have no doubt that your hard workand support for all those spaghetti and chilisuppers were well worth the effort to paythe entrance fee for such a great group ofathletes. You may also be inspired to giveeven more! I guarantee you will not regretthis rewarding experience, and I challengeyou to go away at the end of the ceremonieswithout having shed at least one tear ofpride! Thank you, Masons of Ohio, foryour generous donations!

Reverend R. Keith Rhodenleads worship services andhelps meet spiritual needsat The Ohio Masonic Home.

3Beacon May/June 2006

MASONIC HEALTH CARE

FOR 23 OF BROWNING MASONICCommunity’s 25 years of existence, DorothyWoods has had an intimate perspective –that of a resident.

Dorothy and her husband, Ralph “Curly”Woods, who passed away in February 2005,made plans early for their retirement years.Ralph was a 60-year Mason at Triad Lodge#708. His father and brother were alsoMasons. His mother was in Eastern Starand his son, Dale, in DeMolay. The logicalchoice was Browning Masonic Community(BMC).

It wasn’t long after BMC’s opening inAugust 1981 that the Woods discoveredmaintaining their home would be too much,so they set out for BMC in December 1982.Ralph’s mother, Mary Woods, also movedin down the hall, which was convenient.

“We’ve been really happy here. Myhusband planned our future that way,”said Dorothy.

One of theadvantages wasmoving in at atime when theWoods could stillmove aroundindependently.Dorothy nowneeds more assistance, and although Ralphis no longer with her, Dorothy finds herneeds being met as well as ever and shecontinues as a vocal BMC supporter.

“I help where I can. For years I’veworked on flea markets and bake salesand I’m on the activities committee,”said Dorothy.

Dorothy said she’s seen steadyimprovements made to the facility over theyears. She said she also likes BMC’sadministrative and dining staffs.

“They’re considerate and go out of theirway to do things for us,” she said.

Dorothy is particularly excited aboutBMC’s 25th anniversary and all thecelebrations. She joined the anniversaryplanning committee, which is thankful tohave a resident who has experienced mostof BMC’s years firsthand.

“The anniversary is wonderful. You hearof places that come to an end, but thisfacility continues to thrive,” she said. “It’sa great service for Masons and their wivesand a very secure place to live.”

piritual needs are met at MasonicHealth Care through its full-timepastoral care department. The

Reverend Dr. Brother R. Keith Rhoden andReverend Howard Benson are always nearbyto counsel residents, their families and evenstaff.

“Our basic function is to visit residentswhen they need it in the event of sickness,death or crisis,” said Keith, the director ofpastoral care for six years.

The pastoral care staff also has worshipservices on the Springfield campus. About100 people attend Sunday worship servicesin Burkhart Auditorium. Keith and Howardalso officiate funerals and visit residents inthe hospital.

Prior to working here, Keith was a churchpastor for 22 years. He had planned to starta new life in Colorado, but then anautomobile accident prevented him fromgoing. He now faithfully serves The OhioMasonic Home.

Keith admits it’s been a learning

experience for him and a different type ofservice. He had to adjust to working withother department heads and in clinicalsituations, but said having a trained, skilledteam makes the learning process easier.

Keith said it’s been delightful workingwith the elderly. He has always enjoyedbeing with them.

“There’s such a variety of people here,”he said. “You are with people in the last fewyears of life and you get a great insight intowhat’s valuable.”

Becoming a Mason was also importantto Keith. In addition to regular services forresidents here, Keith also helps with servicesheld on campus for several organizationsand for the annual Home Day event.

“I was raised a Mason in BurkhartAuditorium,” he said. “I wanted to becomea Mason because of the residents. I sawsomething great in these people; somethingreal and genuine, and I wanted to be a partof that.”

For information regarding Masonic HealthCare in Springfield, call 888/243-2664 or visitwww.ohiomasonichome.org.

Caring for Residents, Family and Staff

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BROWNING MASONIC COMMUNITY

A Part of HistoryDorothy Woods has beena Browning MasonicCommunity resident for23 of its 25 years.

For more information on Browning MasonicCommunity, please contact 866/878-4055 orgo to www.ohiomasonichome.org.

Beacon May/June 20064

Wendell Willkie, Ohio Mason, was an unlikely candidate for President in 1940 on theRepublican ticket. He was an attorney, a businessman, a Democrat (until 1940) andnever before held public office.

Former presidential hopeful is chartermember of Ohio’s Coventry Lodge

O R N I N T O A N U N U S U A L L Yaccomplished family for the period– both parents were attorneys and

his father was also a school superintendent– Brother Willkie grew up in Elwood,Ind., completed his education at IndianaUniversity and worked in the family lawfirm from 1916 until he enlisted in the armyduring World War I.

Subsequently, heestablished himself inAkron, Ohio, servingas an attorney with theFirestone Tire andRubber Companybefore entering privatepractice. While living inAkron, Willkie becamea Freemason, taking hisdegrees in CoventryLodge #665. He was acharter member ofCoventry and was amember in goodstanding at the time of his death in 1944.(Coventry Lodge merged with Akron Lodge#83 in 2004 and is now Coventry-AkronLodge #83.)

In 1929, Willkie moved to New YorkCity, joined and soon presided over a largeelectric utility company (Commonwealthand Southern), made headlines and personalconverts through his outspoken oppositionto TVA (a key element in President FranklinD. Roosevelt’s New Deal programs), andbecame a Republican.

Stimulated by the hundreds of WillkieClubs that sprang up in 1940, he pursuedthe GOP nomination in the monthspreceding the party’s June 1940 conventionin Philadelphia. Nominated by CongressmanCharles A. Halleck of Indiana, Willkie waschosen on the sixth ballot. His runningmate was Charles L. McNary of Oregon.

Willkie waged a vigorous campaign fromheadquarters established in Rushville, Ind.,

(his wife’s hometown) which began with ahuge rally in heat-stricken Elwood in August.But, his opposition to Roosevelt’s domesticprograms, while supporting his foreignpolicies and refusing to focus on the third-term issue, was lost in the troubled warclouds over Europe. Willkie received 45percent of the popular vote but carried only

nine other states besidesIndiana. His greatest servicesas a statesman camefollowing America’s entryinto World War II, whenhe served as FDR’spersonal emissary abroad.Willkie reported on hisworld tour of 1942 in abest-selling book, “OneWorld,” a plea forinternational cooperation,peace and freedom. In the 1944presidential election,

Willkie once again sought the Republicannomination, choosing his wife’s hometown,Rushville, as his campaign headquarters.But, his liberal progressive views gainedlittle support due to the rightward shift ofthe Republican Party. Willkie did not supportthe eventual 1944 Republican nominee,Thomas Dewey. (Brother Thomas Deweyof New York selected Brother John W.Bricker of Ohio, a member of Mt. SterlingLodge #269 and former Ohio Governor,as his running mate in 1944.)

After surviving several heart attacks,Willkie finally succumbed, dying on Oct. 8,1944, at age 52. Eleanor Roosevelt in herOct. 12, 1944, My Day column eulogizedWillkie as a “man of courage… (whose)outspoken opinions on race relations wereamong his great contributions to thethinking of the world.”

She concluded, “Americans tend toforget the names of the men who lost their

bid for the presidency. Willkie proved theexception to this rule.” Willkie is buried inRushville, Ind.

Brother Willkie’s name is listed amongthe charter members of Coventry Lodge.Among the Lodge’s archives is a thank younote from his widow and son for the flowersthe Lodge sent at the time of his death.

Information on Brother Willkie was providedby Right Worshipful Brother David H. Heasley,of Coventry-Akron Lodge.

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Brother Wendell Willkie gives a speech duringhis 1944 campaign for U.S. presidency.


WESTERN RESERVE MASONIC COMMUNITY

A hallmark of Masonry is taking care offellow Masons. One of the up-and-comingprograms that demonstrates this Masonicvalue is Masonic Senior Services (MSS).

Overseeing the growth of MSS is thenew senior services director, Nancy Swindel,who began work in February. Althoughdevelopment of MSS was initiated aboutfour years ago, the program really grew ayear ago, and Nancy said she’s excited aboutfurthering its development.

MSS works to arrange services that allowOhio Masons or their widows to remain intheir homes while receiving assistance fromoutside sources. The needs could range fromhealth care to receiving help with yard workor house cleaning.

“Our ultimate goal is to help seniorsremain in their homes – safe, happy andhealthy,” said Nancy. “Wecan really grow. This is justthe beginning.”

An MSS I-CAREcoordinator will meet withthe individual and, after ashort assessment, provideoptions regarding availablecommunity resources.

Nancy will supervisefive I-CARE coordinators throughout thestate, one for each region.

Nancy’s background is in programdevelopment. She has experience in settingup an infrastructure to expand, and working

in senior programs and with families andchildren for nearly 15 years.

“I find seniors interesting to talkto,” she said. “I enjoy their stories.There’s a lot we can learn from ourseniors.” The Masonic name is what drewNancy to this job. Her dad was aMason, while her mother and mother-in-law are Eastern Star members. “I love helping Masons,” she said.“They are very service oriented and I

appreciate the concern they show andprovide for senior services.”

For more information on Masonic SeniorServices, call 888/286-0010.

Swindel Joins Masonic Senior Services

R. DAVID PEARSON, JR.knows what it takes to succeed.In his 94 years, he’s foundsuccess in his career, family life,

academic life and Masonry.An independent living resident at Western

Reserve Masonic Community (WRMC)in Medina, Dr. Pearson credits family forhis career achievements and Masonry forachievements in this phase of his life.

“For 56 years, I have found solace andcomfort in the presence of Masonic living,which is, if anything, truer today as I liveout the Lord’s will without my wife of 66years,” he said.

Dr. Pearson knew what he wanted hislife’s work to be at a young age – dentistry.Despite challenges to find funds to attendcollege and the time to balance his studiesand work, his passion to be a dentist drovehim.

He uses the word “passion” in describingwhat motivated him through those earlyyears.

“Show me anybody who has a passionand I’ll show you somebody with a mission,”he said.

Dr. Pearson graduated from The OhioState University in 1939 and opened apractice in Berea, Ohio. When he was draftedto fight in World War II, it was a Masonwho offered to keep his practice going andleft a list of all the patients gained during

the interim.Masonry has also played a big part in

Dr. Pearson’s life. His father was a chaplainin the Grand Lodge of Ohio and his motherwas in Eastern Star.

“I can’t help but think of the wonderfulexamples of Masonry that have touched mylife,” said Dr. Pearson, a member of QuarryLodge #382 in Berea. “These people setsuch a beautiful example and soon you’rehooked.”

While dentistry was one passion, Dr.Pearson’s true passion in life is his wife,Frances. He described their initial encounteras “love at first sight.” They were engagedfor seven years before getting married, buthe said it was worth every minute.

“I have been a totally blessed man whenI think of all the years,the joy, pleasures andsacrifices,” he said.

After retiring in 1989,Dr. Pearson bought amotor home and he andFrances toured the country,settling in Texas to anassisted living facility nearfamily. In 2004, he decidedto return to Ohio andWRMC.

“Because of the valuesand reputation of theMasonic order, it was an

easy decision to come here. There was norisk involved as far as I was concerned.”

Dr. Pearson was Frances’ primarycaregiver for the final five years of her life.She passed away in January 2005.

Dr. Pearson said the WRMC communityhas helped him cope with his loss. Being apart of the newly formed ResidentAmbassador Committee, an extension ofthe marketing department, is one of theways he’s helping promote his positiveexperiences.

“So many here have been through thesame thing,” he said. “This is the Cadillacof retirement villages, the most wonderfulpeople live here. I’m a firm believer in thisplace and my boys are happy I’m here.”

A p a s s i o n a t e l i f e

Dr. David Pearson relaxes inhis Western Reserve MasonicCommunity independentliving apartment.


hen his youngest sibling was strickenwith schizophrenia, Brother Paul

Quinn knew he had to act.“We could throw up our hands and say,

‘Why us?’ or we could roll up our sleevesand dig in,” Quinn said. “The Quinns takea challenge head on.”

Understanding mental illnessPaul, a member of New England Lodge

#4 in Worthington and Corporate Directorof Marketing and Communications at TheOhio Masonic Home, got involved in a bigway. He joined the state board of theNational Alliance for the Mentally Ill(NAMI), a grassroots volunteer organizationthat offers education, advocacy and supportfor people with brain disorders.

“Mental illness is misunderstood,” Paulsaid. “There’s a general perception thatsomeone with a mental illness should just‘snap out of it.’ As we learned firsthand,mental illness is a biological brain disorderthat can be treated.”

Paul’s brother, Pat, has worked hard onhis recovery for 20 years. With the propermedication, counseling, prayer and familysupport, Pat has earned two college degrees,leads support groups and is living in his ownapartment.

“Pat is waging a heroic fight against adevastating illness,” Paul said. “He’s myhero.”

The Quinn Family SingersSpurred by a suggestion from Pat, his

parents, six siblings and some nieces andnephews formed a musical group called The Quinn Family Singers. For the pastseven years, the musically-inclined Quinnfamily has performed throughout the statefor mental health professionals, consumersand family members, performing songsspanning six decades.

“People coping with mental illness don’tget to enjoy themselves much,” Paul said.“We provide a fun distraction from theillness.”

During the holidays, Brother Quinnjoined with fellow NAMI members to delivermeals and gifts to needy mentally ill peopleliving in group homes.

“It makes you realize how much we takefor granted,” he said.

Compassionat home

Married for22 years, Pauland his wifeCathy raised theirsons Andy, 18,and Joey, 16,and have been“surrogateparents” the pastsix years to EliPierce, Andy’s best friend.

“Eli’s mother is single and works longhours,” Paul said. “We’re in a position toprovide a structured family environment forhim. My wife and I consider Eli our son.”

Paul and his family have also taken aretiree under wing. They frequently hostJim Wright, 72, in their Dublin home.Paul befriended Wright at Mount CarmelHospital where Jim volunteered while Paulworked in the Communications office.

“Jim suffers from depression, sugardiabetes and some other health problems,”Quinn said. “He has no family to supporthim, so we’ve taken him in. We considerhim a member of our family. We have a lotof fun with him.”

Active in his professionQuinn is active in his profession. A past

president of the Public Relations Society ofAmerica (PRSA), Central Ohio Chapter, hecurrently serves as an officer of the DaytonPRSA Chapter. He also serves on the PublicRelations and Marketing Committee of theAssociation of Ohio Philanthropic Homesfor the Aging (AOPHA), an association ofnot-for-profit long-term care providers.Quinn recently was asked to speak toAOPHA members at a marketing seminarregarding relationship building and publicrelations tactics.

Paul also serves as an adjunct facultymember at Franklin University in Columbus,where he teaches marketing to graduate andundergraduate students studying businessand communications.

He has been an officer for the FranklintonBoard of Trade, his neighborhood civicassociation and the Alpha Sigma PhiAlumni Association.

A Renaissance Faire and Royal MarketPlace event will be held 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.September 23 at Western Reserve MasonicCommunity. Admission is free.

The event, held in conjunction withKing Henry’s Touring Company, willcapture the time of bold knights and fairmaidens through activities that willstimulate all the senses. The emphasiswill be on family as there will be somethingfor everyone.

Highlights will include:• Jousting knights on horseback• Fire breathers• A craft market• Musicians• Archery• A royal puppet show• A wizard’s jump castle

Western Reserve Masonic Communityis located at 4931 Nettleton Road inMedina, near Route 18 and Interstate 71.For more information, call 330/721-3000or toll-free at 866/433-1514.

Renaissance Faire tobe held in Medina

The Quinn Family Singers are (from left): Paul,Francie, Pat, Gretchen, Tom, Carolyn, Tom Sr.,Margaret, Brian and Chuck.

Log onto www.namiohio.org for moreinformation about the National Alliance forthe Mentally Ill.

Brother Paul Quinn can be reached atThe Ohio Masonic Home, 937/525-3074 [email protected].

Doing what he can

Brother Quinn downplays hiscontributions.

“My family upbringing and Masonicteachings taught me to help others,” hesaid. “We all do what we can.”

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Jacob Christopher was WorshipfulMaster of Saginaw Lodge #77 in Saginaw,Mich., from 1892–1893.

In 1932, he visited the home ofhis grandson, Walter Christopher, andhis wife who were expecting a child.Worshipful Brother Christopher presentedhis Past Master’s Jewel to his grandsonand told him to give it to the unborngreat-grandson, when the child becomesMaster of his Lodge.

Worshipful Brother Christopher diedbefore George J. Christopher was bornon Nov. 13, 1932. In 1967, the great-grandson, George J. Christopher, joinedHarbor Light Lodge #746 in Toledo,Ohio, and went on to become adistinguished Masonic leader.

He served as Worshipful Master in1975 and was presented the Past Master’sJewel from his late great-grandfather.Brother George Christopher later wassecretary of the Lodge for many years;a past commander-in-chief of ToledoConsistory, Scottish Rite; and a 33˚ Mason.

He served the Grand Lodge of Ohioas a District Deputy Grand Master in the11th Masonic District for three yearsand, in 1988, was appointed GrandTyler of the Grand Lodge of Ohio.

He subsequently moved to Ludington,Mich., became a dual member of the Lodgethere and served as its Worshipful Masteron several occasions.

The Past Master’s Jewel was given tothe Grand Lodge of Ohio Museum byRight Worshipful Brother George J.Christopher last year. Also presented tothe Grand Lodge of Ohio Museum wasJacob Christopher’s complete hand-writtencipher ritual.

114-year-old Past Master’s Jewelpresented to Grand Lodge Museum

Masonic Home residentstill volunteers atmedical center

George Davidson, a retired Armycolonel now living at The Ohio MasonicHome in Springfield, works as a volunteeranswering visitor’s questions at the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Medical Center.

He was recently featured in afront-page story in a Wright-Pattersonpublication.

Worshipful Brother Davidson is a61-year Mason. He is a Past Master ofBellefontaine Lodge #209; a Past GrandCommander of the Grand Commandery,Knights Templar of Ohio; a Knight of theYork Cross of Honour; and a 33˚ ScottishRite Mason.

With more than three decades ofexperience with the military, WorshipfulBrother Davidson is a very valuablevolunteer.

Inflation since 1870sgives perspectiveof higher costs

With rising fuel and utility costs andhigher taxes, we sometimes overlook thefact that expenses of operation have alwaysbeen important to lodges.

In the 1870s, lodges faced similar issues,although they may not seem as bad to ustoday. The “Frontier Cornerstone,” historybook of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, reports:

“Urania Lodge #311 reported thefollowing expenditures: first Lodge jewels,$35; 47 yards of carpet, $43.25; wallpaperand shades, $12.72; candles, coal andsundries, $8.65; coal oil, 50 cents; candles,$2.20; supplies for making aprons and astepladder, $3.25; five cans of oysters forinstallation of officers, $4.25; spittoons,candles and oil, $6.25; pay for keepinghorses and installing officers, $1.50; fireinsurance for five years, $8.35.”

Past Master Jewel of Jacob Christopherfrom 1892-1893.

Grand Master James M.Williamson, center, presented50-year membership awardsto Robert J. Wilson, left, andRichard M. Wilson, right. Thetwins received their EnteredApprentice degrees on thesame day, their Fellowcraftstogether, their MasterMasons degrees on the samenight, and now their 50-yearpins together, all in SunsburyLodge #362. Richard Wilsonserved as Grand Master ofthe Grand Lodge in 1984-85,and is also a Past WorthyGrand Patron of the OhioEastern Stars.

Wilson twins receive 50-year honorfrom Grand Master


ROTHER RON SEWARD NEVERset out seeking citations fromgovernors and lawmakers in New

York. He was just trying to change thingsfor the better, something he continues todo now as a Masonic Retirement Village(MRV) resident.

“I was just a farm boy from Nebraska,”Ron, a member of New England Lodge#4 in Worthington, Ohio, said modestly.In the late 1970s and early ‘80s, BrotherSeward led the charge to bring the NewYork state court system into the modernage of technology. As chief clerk of MonroeCounty Family Court in New York, Ronused $5,000 of his own money to showhow a personal computer could enhancethe court’s ability to handle its caseload. Inthose days, personal computers were notstandard office equipment, much less typicalhousehold items, and officials in his districtwere not willing to fund such expensiveequipment.

Ron admits he was not particularlyinterested in computers or electronics.He just knew computers would help.

“I had a problem – there were 1,000petitions a month coming in to family courtand just four judges to deal with them,” hesaid.

Ron thought a mainframe computer maybe the answer, but it would take too longto develop an effective program. In 1978,he saw an Apple II computer and knew hehad found his solution. Within 24 hours,he had the computer program up andrunning.

Soon, Ron was able to sort the cases bytype – juvenile delinquency, domesticviolence, etc. – and have them on the judges’desks, allowing a backlog of cases to bebrought up to date. The system also allowedjudges to concentrate more on cases insteadof mounting paperwork. Word of theefficiency of the system spread statewide.

“Suddenly, they could see how to attack

this,” said Brother Seward.Ron spent the next five years traveling,

speaking and training others on the systemhe created. He could have been happy withjust that success, but there was more to bedone.

Around the same time, Brother Seward

saw another area that needed improvement:New York’s domestic violence policy. Ronsaid the system was slanted toward men.Victims often got shortchanged. He workedto bring more attention to the flaws in thatsystem, and gained the recognition ofGovernor Hugh Carey, who appointed Ronto a task force on reforming the policy ofdomestic violence. Seward received citationsand awards for his efforts from people likeformer Governor Mario Cuomo.

Brother Seward said he is proud ofhis accomplishments, but is quick to sharecredit with others, staying true to his

Masonic values.“I’ve always liked the Masonic motto

‘Taking good men and making thembetter,’” he said. “Leading an exemplarylife, that’s important to me, as are all thevalues of Masonry.”

Brother Seward retired in the mid-1980sand now spends his time helping fellowMRV residents with their technologicalneeds. Although he likes to joke he doesn’tknow anything about computers, the truthis quite to the contrary.

Recently, he created a program to helphis church’s accounting staff. He also workedwith a fellow resident to develop aninventory system for the gravesites on thegrounds of The Ohio Masonic Home.

Seward also compiled a comprehensiveMasonic Retirement Village residentdirectory. He broke the list down in threeways – alphabetically by the resident’s lastname, alphabetically by the resident’s firstname and numerically by patio unit number.

Ron and his wife Doris gave these outas Christmas gifts to fellow MRV residents.

At MRV, Ron is still making things betterfor others.

For more information regarding MasonicRetirement Village, contact 888/290-2664or go to www.ohiomasonichome.org.

MASONIC RETIREMENT VILLAGE

Taking Advantage of Technology

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Ron Seward’s computerknowledge helped him getahead in his profession andnow Ron uses his skills at theMasonic Retirement Village.

F A C T S H E E T


THE GRAND LODGE OF OHIO

• A Fraternity established by a conventionof five Masonic lodges held in Chillicothein 1808.

• The Grand Lodge of Ohio is comprisedof annually elected and appointed GrandLodge Officers, Past Grand Masters,current and past District Deputy GrandMasters, and the Masters and Wardensof Ohio Lodges.

• Approximately 120,000 Master Masonsare members of the nearly 540 lodgescurrently operating under charters fromthe Grand Lodge.

• The oldest Lodge in Ohio is AmericanUnion Lodge #1 chartered by the GrandLodge of Massachusetts as a travelingmilitary Lodge in 1776. It was establishedin Marietta, Ohio, in 1790.

• The Grand Lodge and its lodges supportfour major charities in addition to theirsupport of The Ohio Masonic Home.

– Ohio Special Olympics: Beginningin 1978, Ohio Masons have helped to

support the Ohio Special OlympicSummer Games, annually donating inexcess of $100,000 to this worthycause.

– Grand Lodge CharitableFoundation: Established in 1995,the Foundation provides grants toOhioans in extreme financial difficultyupon the recommendation of thelocal lodge.

– Masonic Model Student AssistanceProgram: Operating in Ohio since1995, the program allows teams ofschool personnel to identify andintervene with at-risk students.

– Grand Lodge ScholarshipFoundation: The Foundation providesgrants to students in more than 40Ohio institutions of higher education.

• By Grand Lodge law, it is permissiblefor an Ohio Mason to recommend formembership a man he believes wouldmake a good Mason.

The Grand Lodge Web site is www.freemason.com.

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The Ohio Masonic Home is:• Ohio’s oldest and largest Masonic charity,

established in 1892.

• Four operating subsidiaries providing health care,retirement living and community-based servicesto Master Masons:

• Masonic Health Care, Inc., in Springfield, providesservices for 246 residents in our nursing home andAlzheimer’s facility

• Masonic Retirement Village, Inc., in Springfield,is home for 270 Masons in our independent andassisted living facilities

• Browning Masonic Community, Inc., in Waterville,provides independent living accommodations for49 residents in apartments and free-standinggarden villas

• Western Reserve Masonic Community, Inc. inMedina, provides independent living, assistedliving and nursing care for 206 residents

• An affiliated Endowment Foundation is responsiblefor managing endowment assets and developingadditional funding resources.

• Masonic Senior Services, serving as an advocatefor Masons and their wives or widows and linkingthem with community resources that allow them tocontinue living in their homes.

• Governed by a 15-member Board of Trusteesrepresenting the Grand Lodge, York andScottish Rite.

• Exemplified by its hallmark tradition of care,concern and compassion for all in the name ofOhio Freemasonry.

• Governed by a parent board that sets corporatepolicy and direction. Its four subsidiaries and affiliatedEndowment Foundation are distinct and governedby their own Board of Trustees.

• On a “fee for service” (pay as you go) basis foradmission of all residents. If a resident exhausts hisor her personal resources, an application is submittedto the respective subsidiary for financial assistance.If a brother/wife/widow is destitute at the time ofapplication, he/she may be assisted upon admission.The Home’s Foundation provides more than $4.5million annually in charity care.

• The host for “Home Day” the first Sunday of eachJune on the Springfield campus. In 2006, it will beheld on June 4. This day provides the occasion forthe annual lodge pilgrimage to The Home, wherelodge members visit their brethren and otherresidents affiliated with their lodge. It remains aday for fraternal fellowship and provides anopportunity for you to learn about many of theservices and tour the accommodations on campusas well as meet a number of the statewide leadersof the various Masonic bodies.

What Everyone Should Know…

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n April 1999, two young men walkedinto Columbine High School inLittleton, Colo., and 45 minutes later,

there were 24 injured and 15 dead, includingthe gunmen.

Thom Stecher, nationally acclaimedstudent assistance and intervention specialistand co-developer of the Masonic ModelStudent Assistance Program (SAP), notes,“There were several red flags surroundingthese young men. In fact, not long beforeApril 20, 1999, [one of the gunmen]brought a pipe bomb to a pizza place wherehe worked. If Columbine High School hadinstituted a student assistance program,where the school staff is trained to identifyand assess warning flags like these, it’s likelythat the word ‘Columbine’ today wouldnot be associated with ‘tragedy.’”

Promotes a healthy school environmentStudent assistance programs such as the

Masonic Model are a vital part of a healthyschool environment.

Brother Stecher was asked to go toColumbine after the tragedy to talk withthe survivors. He and Brother LarryNewman developed the Masonic ModelSAP more than 20 years ago, and havetrained more than 1,500 school staffmembers from all across Ohio.

Near the time of the seventh anniversary

of the Columbine shooting, several smallschools from all across the countryuncovered Columbine-like plots that wereto take place on the anniversary.

A year ago, a young man carried twoguns into a Toledo-area elementary school.Recently, officials discovered a “hit list” ofstudents and teachers in a Central Ohioschool. Incidents like these bring anincreased awareness to the need for studentassistance programs.

Approaches issues facing kidsThe Masonic Model SAP not only

focuses on bullying and violence, but it isa well-rounded approach to the issues facingchildren today. The three-day workshopalso looks at alcohol and drug abuse, familydynamics, depression and suicide, enablingand co-dependency, and life-skillsdeficiencies.

In the training, Brother Newman relatesa story from one of the Masonic Modelteams about Michelle, a middle schoolstudent. Her friend, Stephanie, voiced herconcern to the school’s guidance counselorabout Michelle’s emotional health.Michelle’s grades recently dropped, and shelost interest in sports and her friends.The counselor met with Michelle, whoassured the counselor there was not aproblem. The counselor, however, was

concerned and notified the Masonic ModelSAP team. They gathered data on Michelle’schange in academics, behavior and health.The team then met with Michelle and herparents.

Michelle’s parents explained that theywere separating. Michelle began to cry andadmitted that she was fighting depression.She had even contemplated suicide, thinkingthat the shock would make her parents staytogether. Because of the Masonic Modelteam’s early intervention, Michelle receivedthe help she needed to deal with her parents’separation and divorce. Her life was saved.

Relies on referralsThe Masonic Model process relies on

the staff, as well as the students, knowinghow to make referrals to the assistance teamso that they can direct the at-risk child tothe services they require to become healthyand productive.

Would you like to help the schools inyour area? We are currently acceptingapplications to register for workshops forthe 2006-2007 school year. If you wouldlike your local school to become involvedwith the Masonic Model SAP, please contactMark Bernardin at the Grand Lodge office,800/292-6092. For more information onthe Masonic Model SAP, please visitwww.freemason.com.

Masonic Model Student Assistance Program looks back on tragedy

I

Sparrow Lodge #400 of Sunbury hasdecided to part with a special set ofcommemorative Masonic knives. The Lodgewill auction set No. 001 on Ebay.com duringthe last week in June as a Lodge fundraiser.

In preparation for the Lodge’s 125thanniversary, a collection of commemorativeMasonic knives was authorized with oneknife to be issued every other year, startingin 1986 and ending in 1992.

Thirty-five sets were made with each setcontaining one each of the five styles ofknives with like serial numbers. Eachset is housed in a custom walnut case withroyal velvet and gold braid lining.

The knives were manufactured by TheCamillus Cutlery Company. Each knife isetched with Sparrow Lodge and the year ofissue on the blade. Stamped on the handleis the knife’s serial number.

Lodge offers commemorative set of Masonic knives


With the ongoing conflicts in Iraq andAfghanistan, America is remembering theservice of all its veterans.

Ohio Freemasonry also owes a great dealto the American veteran. One strikingexample is Major Jonathon Heart, who wasthe first Master of the first Masonic Lodgein Ohio (American Union Lodge).Worshipful Brother Heart lost his life in theservice of his county on Nov. 4, 1791, atSt. Clair’s Defeat on the Wabash.

In commemoration of his sacrifice andthe sacrifice made by all men and womenwho serve in our nation’s armed forces, theGrand Lodge of Ohio has created the MajorJonathan Heart – Service to Country Award.

This award may be presented by anylodge to its members or members of thepublic who are either currently serving inthe military or who have been honorablydischarged.

Lodges are encouraged to hold specialrecognition events, during which this awardcan be presented to local veterans. Localveterans’ organizations should be includedin the event.

The Service to Country certificates canbe ordered from the Grand Secretary’s officefor $1 each or printed from the GrandLodge Web site, www.freemason.com, inthe Programs section.

Honoring ourmilitary veterans

Building the Pillars of LodgeLeadership and ManagementSeminars will be held this summeron five Saturday mornings atlocations around the state.

The seminars are the result ofa coordinated effort between RightWorshipful Brother Michael A.Himes, Deputy Grand Master, andthe Grand Lodge Education andLeadership Committee.

The seminars were created toassist lodge officers as they prepare

for the coming Masonic year andfor the years ahead. A number ofleadership and management topicswill be covered as well as the 2007Grand Master’s Program.

All officers, especially the SeniorWardens and Brothers interested inthe performance of their lodges, arestrongly encouraged to attend.

Registration will start at 8 a.m.and the seminar will be held from9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Masonic Leadership Seminars to be held this summer

New Home Lodge #338 has a tradition of leadership in the 19th Masonic District. TheLodge currently has as active members three Past District Deputy Grand Masters andone current district deputy. This picture is an example. During a break at the recentinspection of Farmers Lodge #153, Fellowcraft Candidate Adrian Wilson is tutored byPDDGM James T. Hamby, while, from left, DDGM Gary W. Meikle, and PDDGMs LyleA. Bowers and Harry L. Wilson observe. All four New Home members travel extensivelyaround the district.

Members and friends ofRobinson Locke Lodge#659 in Toledo preparesacks of groceries fordistribution to 43 needyfamilies. Each familyreceives enough food forone week of meals. TheLodge began collectingand distributing food forfamilies in 1994, at thattime serving just fourfamilies.

Groceries provided for Toledo area

• June 24, Columbus at the Northland Masonic Temple, 5885 Cleveland Ave.

• July 8, Medina at the Western Reserve Masonic Home,Route 18 and I-71.

• July 15, Findlay at the Findlay Masonic Temple,303 Osborne Ave.

• August 12, Athens at the Athens Masonic Temple,12 W. Carpenter Street

• August 19, Dayton at the Dayton Masonic Center,525 W. Riverview Ave.

The locations and dates for the five seminars are:

Tradition of leadership


Grand Master James M. Williamson, right, and Grand Secretary George O. Braatz, left,welcome Walter F. Wheeler, second from right, Grand Master of Masons in Michigan, andIra S. Slaven, Deputy Grand Master of Michigan, to Ohio. At the time of the visit on April1, they were respectively Deputy Grand Master and Senior Grand Warden in Michigan. Thevisit took place during the 150th anniversary of Grand Rapids Lodge #289 at which Ohio’sGrand Lodge Officers performed a Reconsecration Ceremony. Most Worshipful BrotherWheeler is a Past Master of Grand Rapids Lodge in Grand Rapids, Mich., and Most WorshipfulBrother Braatz is a Past Master of Grand Rapids Lodge in Grand Rapids, Ohio.

Two Michigan Grand Lodge Officerswelcomed at Grand Rapids ceremony

Masons raise $2,500to assist MSWALKin Lancaster

The Other PlaceThis is a free-standing, day shelter in

Dayton that provides advocacy, educationand service for homeless men, women andfamilies. Through your generosity, morethan 200 teddy bears wearing double heartsweater vests and over $2,000 have beendonated to the children and their parentsreceiving services at The Other Place. Wecan all make a difference by reaching outand touching the hearts of others who areless fortunate by letting them know thatMasons care! Thank you, Masons of Ohio,for your generous donations!

What Does Freemasonry Mean to You?Freemasonry means different things to

all of us. I am very proud to be a Masonand member of this great Fraternity of goodmen that do great work. I want to promotethe generosity of Masons mentioned aboveand what we truly stand for, so futuregenerations can experience the same bondof brotherhood.

However, I do not believe we should

ever change our principles and sacrificequality for quantity. The Masons of Ohioare quality men, proud of their Masonicheritage and represent the largest jurisdictionin the country. I truly believe this countryneeds Freemasonry now more than ever,but it will take a united Fraternity to moveus forward and attract more good men whoare active members and truly belong.

My theme of Brotherly Love, Reliefand Truth has been criticized by a few, butwelcomed by far more Masons that trulybelieve in our values and in Living thePrinciples we were taught. Freemasonrymust be lodge-centered with active membersin each community.

It’s time we share our rich Masonicheritage with others. What kind of memberwill you be? Will you just belong andcriticize, or will you join the 120,000+Masons in Ohio and take an active partwhile promoting Brotherly Love, Reliefand Truth? The future of our Fraternitydepends on all of us working together tosucceed!

New guide dog forHeath Lodge secretary

More than $2,500 was raised in giftsand pledges by Masons and Masoniclodges to support the annual AprilMSWALK in Lancaster.

Sunrise Lodge #782 in Westervilledonated $500, and agreed to match thefirst $500 raised in the effort. An officerof Sunrise, who has multiple sclerosis(MS), helped organized the Masoniccontribution to MSWALK.

MS is a chronic disease of the centralnervous system affecting the brain andspinal cord. The National MS Societyorganized the walk, in which more than500 persons participated in the three-and six-mile walks.

The Masonic team that was in thewalk wore T-shirts with a large Squareand Compass. More events are beingplanned by Sunrise Lodge to supportfunding for MS research.

G.M. Column continued from page 2

Jack L. Shoenfelt, secretary of Heath Lodge#771 walks with his new guide dog, Roscoe.Worshipful Brother Shoenfelt, a 50-yearMason, is legally blind. He served his Lodgein 2000 as Master and since as secretary.Roscoe is a 21-month-old standard poodle.Brother Shoenfelt lived in Columbus forabout 28 days in March to meet and betrained with Roscoe. They are now homein Heath. He is the latest of several Masonicmembers across Ohio who rely on guidedogs as they pursue active Masonic lives.


im Zeigler’s life has come full circle.He first came to The Ohio MasonicHome when he was 9-years-old and

has returned as a resident of the MasonicRetirement Village.

He started in what was thenCunningham Place and now has anapartment in the very same building. Asthe biennial Ohio Masonic Home AlumniDay, which reunites former children’shome residents, approaches on July 2, Jimhas even more stories for the group.

“I get the biggest kick out of whensomebody asks me ‘How long haveyou been here,’” he said. “I say ‘70years’ and they get a strange look ontheir face.”

It was 1935 when Jim and foursiblings came to The Home to liveafter their mother died and their dadfell ill from food poisoning. At thetime, The Home was not just a healthcare facility to take care of Masons,but also a place for children to stay.

Jim is quick to point out it wasnot an orphanage, but for childrenwhose parents may not have had themeans to support them. The childrenwere not available for adoption.

Life at The Home 70 years agowasn’t what may be imagined. DuringThe Great Depression, many weresuffering, but kids at The Home wentto school, had plenty to eat, enjoyedactivities and – in general, were wellsupported by the Masonic fraternity.

The day started when a whistle ontop of the old powerhouse blew atabout 6:15 a.m. The children wouldwash up and be ready for breakfastat 7 a.m. Meals were eaten in thebasement of the Cunninghambuilding.

Jim said meals were served “familystyle,” when everybody was there andall were expected to eat everythingon their plates.

The children went to school andreturned to The Home to play or studyuntil dinner time around 5-5:30 p.m., thenplayed or studied until bed time, which

varied depending upon the resident’s age.Jim said weekends were fun. There

were bands and other entertainment.Fridays and Saturdays were movie nightsin what is now Rickly auditorium. Youwere only allowed to view them if yourgrades were good; if not, “you’d only viewyour schoolbooks.”

Residents could also participate inathletics, music groups or work on TheHome’s farm or in woodworking. Jimgained his lifelong enjoyment of

woodworking from his time here.Jim said although most kids were well

behaved, there were plenty of chances formischief. Some climbed the newly built

water tower or rode up and downunsupervised in elevators or dumbwaiters,but if you were caught, you could expect“a licking.”

Jim’s most memorable “licking” cameafter running away with a friend. He wentas far as London, Ohio. Instead of beingmet by his friend’s sister as expected, theywere confronted by the school’s director.Jim said he was unsure why he did it, butnever tried it again.

Younger residents could leave the homewhen they graduated from highschool or their family could supportthem. The latter happened when Jim’sdad remarried in 1940.

Jim said it wasn’t hard to readjustto home life with his siblings, butThe Home always stayed with him.He visited several times over the years,including a memorable furlough fromthe Army during World War II. Hewas pleasantly surprised fellow Homeresident Jimmy Rowe was also in thesame Army outfit during training.

Jim said he’s proud his name iscarved with several others who foughtin wars in the monument in front ofthe flag pole across from Bushnell.

Jim spent his life after the war working in various places around thecountry. He has returned for severalAlumni Day gatherings.

When his wife, Doris, hadcomplications from arthritis, Jim knewexactly where he wanted to take herto live. Jim said he’s grateful for beingin a place that made Doris’s last yearscomfortable, and he enjoys beinghere as well.

Today, Jim enjoys working on themodel train sets in the Train Roomat Masonic Health Care.“I always wanted to work with modeltrains. It wasn’t until I came backhere that I had the opportunity.”Jim likes being back on the Springfield

campus.“I like the friends and acquaintances

I have here and educating others onThe Home.”

Back home – again

J

Masonic Retirement Village resident Jim Zeigleroperates The Ohio Masonic Home’s train roomalong with Kenny Wheeler.

Earlier this year, we suggested severalways one can help The Ohio Masonic Homeor the Endowment Foundation in responseto the common question we get whiletraveling and speaking at various functionsthroughout the state. We would like tocontinue responding to that question withseveral more such ways to help.

#1 VolunteerWith three campuses now – Masonic

Health Care and Masonic Retirement Villagein Springfield, Browning MasonicCommunity in Waterville, and WesternReserve Masonic Community in Medina –our need for volunteershas increasedsignificantly. Ourvolunteers do countlessthings to help us fromgetting residents toappointments on and offcampus, to assistingresidents in making mealchoices, to filing, typingand preparinginformation packets, toworking in the gift shop,to assisting with events,to sitting on various committees.

Just as our campuses are of different sizesand different operations, so are our volunteerprograms. Each campus is always eager tofind volunteers who are interested in helping.

#2 GiftAnother way one can help is by giving

gifts of cash or assets. Sometimes we tendto limit our thinking to cash gifts, openingthe checkbook and writing a check, but infact there are many other types includingsecurities, life insurance policies, in-kindand planned gifts.

While space limitations prevent a reviewof each of these gift types here, pleaseunderstand there are a number of ways youcan make a gift of assets to us, several whichalso enable the donor to receive an incometax deduction, a lifetime stream of incomeand, possibly, other benefits – all in addition

to the personal satisfaction of helping anorganization in which you believe. For moreinformation on any of these types of gifts,please contact the Foundation toll-free at888/248-2664.

#3 SupportThere’s even a way to help us and have

some fun, too! September 15 and 16 atGreene Country Club in Fairborn, theFoundation will host the 4th Jim PerryLegends Golf Classic for the benefit ofPathways Center for Alzheimer’s Careand related dementia services of MasonicHealth Care.

An increasingly-popular local event, thisweekend of golf, fun,fellowship, and goodfood is a great way tohelp the Foundationwhile enjoying yourselfand rubbing shoulderswith professional sportsstars of yesteryear. Celebrities who’veparticipated in the pastinclude: Jim O’Toole,Joe Nuxhall, Earle Bruce,

Galen Cisco, Jim “Mudcat” Grant, FredPatek, Milt Plum, Ryne Duren, HalNaragon, Vern Law, Bill Virdon and theevent’s namesake, Jim Perry, 1970 AmericanLeague Cy Young Award winner.

You can help by: 1) sponsoring a portionof the program (sponsorships are availableat all dollar levels from $250 to $15,000);2) golfing in the event or getting a foursometogether to do so; and 3) providing anauction item for our silent or live auctionat the event. For more information on theevent, call the Foundation toll-free at888/248-2664.

We are thankful for every gift we receiveand every way you help us. If you wish tohelp in one of the ways identified above,please call the Foundation at 888/248-2664 or write us at: Five Masonic Drive,Springfield, Ohio 45504-3658. Thankyou in advance for your gift!


by Right Worshipful Brother Timothy B. Strawn CAE, President,The OMH Benevolent Endowment Foundation

HOW CAN WE HELP?

FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTUREThank You ForYour GenerosityWe offer our grateful appreciation to the estates,individuals, groups or other Masonic bodies whohave supported The Ohio Masonic Home withdonations given between March 1 and April 30,2006.

$10,000+

Brister, C. E.Cornell, Thelma I.Peffley, John B.Trechter, Edward E.White, Mildred L.

$5,000 – $9,999

Alvin G. Myrice Chapter#229, R.A.M.

Brown, George E.Chalus, Michael & MaryFrank, WalterMoss, George K.Seifert, Dorothy T. &

Myron T.Sterrett, Kenneth R.

$2,500 – $4,999

Schulze, Vivian H.Sheeler, Howard M.Valley of Cleveland,

AASRValley of Columbus,

AASR

$1,000 – $2,499

Amato, Michael E.Davis, Orlando W.Hosler, Bessie V.Jenkins, Daniel C., Jr.Libanus Lodge #80Sharonville Lodge #204Solar Lodge #730Steele, Arlene BurgessWheeler, John W.

$500 – $999

American UnionLodge #1

Arters, George D. & B.J.Franklin Lodge #14Kelly, FloydMantua Lodge #533Montgomery Lodge #94New Carlisle Lodge #100Newton Falls

Lodge #462Shade River Lodge #453Shrive, Harold GeorgeW.K. Ricksecker

Lodge #606Western Star Lodge #21Williams, Frank R.Yellow Springs

Lodge #421

$100 – $499

Acadia Lodge #306Amity Lodge #5Brown, Gordon P.Center Star Lodge #11Chagrin Falls Chapter

#152, R.A.M.Chandler Lodge #138Christopher, Robert A.Clemans, Phillip P.

Clifton-Gaston AllenLodge #664

Crews, Donald I.Damascus Lodge #643Doric Lodge #172Evanston-Eversull

Lodge #695Fannin, FrankFielding Lodge #192H.S. Kissell Lodge #674Hamer Lodge #167Hamm, CharlesHammer, DonaldHarmar Lodge #390Heights-Lion Heart

Lodge #633Herd, Walter A.Holcombe, Richard M.

& CarmelHolsberry, Howard E.Hudson Lodge #510Hyde Park Lodge #589Jones, Ernest L.Karth, Charles E. &

MarjorieKirkwood Lodge #446Larcomb, JosephLatham Lodge #154Leesburg Lodge #78Licking Lodge #291Lone Star Lodge #175Lucas County Memorial

LodgeMacKenzie, PeterMartin, Edward E., Jr.

& ElizabethMartin, Ernest Carl

& BeverlyMason Lodge #678Morrow Lodge #265New Lisbon Lodge #65Ohio State Secretaries

AssociationOlive Lodge #210Pequignot, Gene R.

& DoloresPhelps, EdgarPool, Walter Edward

& MarthaReynolds & Reynolds

Employee FoundationSalineville Lodge #348Senate Lodge #378Shank, Harold &

JosephineStafford Lodge #300Stokes Lodge #305Storie, Eugene C.Tabor, William T., IITemple Lodge #28Toronto Lodge #583University Heights

Lodge #738Valley of Dayton, AASRWest Salem Lodge #398Western Reserve

Lodge #507Western Sun Lodge #91

Want to volunteer?

Springfield:Carol Floyd,

Director of Volunteers937/525-3026

WatervilleLaurel McCulloch,

Director of Activities419/878-4055

Medina:Paula Bogre,

Recreational Director330/721-3000

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

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

Paul Quinn,Director of Marketing and CommunicationsThe Ohio Masonic Home2655 W. National RoadSpringfield, OH 45504-3698937/[email protected]

George Braatz, P.G.M.,Grand Secretary atThe Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of OhioP.O. Box 629Worthington, OH 43085614/[email protected]

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

Please…rememberThe Ohio Masonic Home

in your will.

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

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

Non-Profit Org.

U.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 5405

Columbus, OH

IN THIS ISSUE…Giving ‘life’ to others.........................................PAGE 1

Dorothy Woods, a part of history.......................PAGE 3

Pastoral caring through Masonic Health Care.....PAGE 3

Wendell Willkie remembered.............................PAGE 4

May/June 2006 Beacon

When WorshipfulBrother Ed Fouch getsinvolved in something,it’s with a passion.Take his golf game,for example. “It’s golf, golf,golf for me,” he said.“I don’t mind workinglong days when I knowI’ll later be rewarded

with a fun day at the golf course.”Ed has operated his own financial

planning business for 30 years.“Being a small businessman takes a lot

of effort,” he said. But when work is done,it’s off to the links!

He is looking forward to playing againin The Ohio Masonic Home’s Annual JimPerry Legends Golf Classic, September15 and 16 at Greene Country Club inFairborn.

“It’s a great event,” Worshipful BrotherFouch said. “The sports Legends are veryenjoyable to be with, and the proceedsbenefit the Pathways Center for Alzheimer’sCare and related dementia care services atMasonic Health Care.”

Some of Ed’s other passions includephotography, bicycling, playing basketballand enjoying his family. This year, Ed is

celebrating his 25th wedding anniversarywith his wife, Carol.

“We’re going on an Alaskan cruise,”he said.

Another of Ed’s passions is Freemasonry.He joined Theodore Breck Lodge #714in 1988.

“My father was a member,” he said.“I always knew I would join.”

Fouch became Worshipful Master ofthe Lodge in 1999 and is also a memberof Scottish Rite, Valley of Cleveland, andCorwin-Webb Chapter 205 R.A.M.

“The Masonic values of faith, hope andcharity have guided my life,” Ed said.“Masonry really does take good men andmake them better.”

Three years ago, Fouch was askedto represent the Grand Lodge on theBoard of Trustees of The Ohio MasonicHome. And, with his financial background,he was also asked to join the Board ofTrustees of The Home’s BenevolentEndowment Foundation. As usual, Edapproached his work on both Boardswith passion.

“It’s been fantastic,” he said. “The staffand the Board members of The Home andFoundation are dedicated and passionateabout The Home and its cause.”

CORRECTION

In the March/April Beacon, the Masonic titleof Masonic Retirement Village resident WallyJones was printed incorrectly. Wally’s correcttitle is Worshipful Brother.

WORSHIPFUL BROTHER ED FOUCH

Passion within due bounds

Documents

Beacon_MayJun06