FALL 2011 VOLUME 18, ISSUE 4

BEACONA JOINT PUBLICATION OF THE OF AND THE OHIO MASONIC HOME Kevin B. ToddOhio Installed Grand Master of

Kevin B. Todd was installed Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of Ohio on Saturday, October 15. The Grand Lodge offi cers for this new Masonic year also include James F. Easterling as Deputy Grand Master, Norman J. Mick as Senior Grand Warden, Steven E. Cokonougher as Junior Warden, Ronald L. Connelly as Grand Treasurer, C. Michael Watson as Grand Secretary, David L. Collins as Grand Chaplain, Robert C. Rill as Grand Orator, Douglas N. Kaylor as Grand Marshal, Eric R. Schau as Senior Grand Deacon, Michael T. Puskarich as Junior Grand Deacon, and Calvin E. Giusto as Grand . Kevin Bruce Todd was born on January 21, 1955 in Lakewood, Ohio to Harold W. (deceased) and Jeanette Todd. He was the youngest of six children and was raised on a farm outside of Footville, near Rock Creek, Ohio. He met Pamela Jane Davies at Kent State University in 1974, and they were married on July 15, 1978. Pam teaches third grade at Crestview Elementary School, in Columbiana, Ohio. Kevin and Pam are blessed with two wonderful children, a Continued on page 4

Trustees Travel to Assist in the Raising of Brother Stofac On September 29, 2011, nine Trustees of The Ohio Masonic Home travelled from all areas of Ohio to Springfi eld’s St. Andrews Lodge #619 to assist in the raising of Brother Thomas J. Stofac, Chief Executive Offi cer of The Ohio Masonic Home. The Trustees, along with Senior Grand Warden James Easterling, Jr; RWB Timothy Strawn, President of the Ohio In This Issue: Masonic Home Benevolent Endowment Fund; PDDGM Florida Luncheons with GM ...... 4 Rodney Kovacs, and many current and Past District Masonic Home Joins Facebook ...... 6 Deputy Grand Masters were part of nearly 100 brethren Veterans Memorial Dedicated ...... 7 who witnessed an outstanding degree. Also attending Memory Care Campaign ...... 8-9 were 16 residents of Springfi eld Masonic Community. Serving as a Solomon ...... 12 Continued on page 3 GM Enters the Blogoshpere ...... 13 Future The of is Up To You

By Kevin Todd, Grand Master

What a great honor it is to rep- come to every meeting or become a Our great resent the Masons of Ohio as your lodge offi cer or a district leader. But Masonic Grand Master. I pledge that I will remember how you felt after your leaders did put forth the utmost effort to see Entered Apprentice Degree? The not start out that the interests of the Brethren whole Masonic world was opened as Masons are promoted and protected for the in front of you and the possibilities and become future. I will try to uphold the tradi- were endless. This is as true today the leaders tion of great Grand Masters that as it was then. Those opportunities of their day. have not disappeared, but perhaps They were have come before me and hope- Kevin B. Todd, fully, in some small way, provide we have. So take responsibility for leaders who Grand Master an example for those that follow. I the health of your family, the state were also am a huge proponent of “individual of your lodge, the condition of the Masons. Just like them, as a Mason, responsibility.” As a one of the larg- youth group your lodge sponsors or you have been recognized by your est Grand Lodges in the world, we the other to which lodge brothers as a person who will be able to accomplish anything you belong, and even the conditions possesses the criteria that we all to which we dedicate our resources. in your local communities. The admire. You must be a person of But nothing happens in any group extent of your Freemasonry should faith, integrity, intellect, dedication, if the individuals that comprise it not be just for the bumper sticker and will. These are the very do not make it their personal mis- on your car, the ring on your fi nger, characteristics for which we value sion to reach their own goals and or the Square and Compass on our famous brothers. It is doubtful those of the group. So it is with this your ball cap. Being a Mason is an that any of us will ever be another dedication in mind that I am pro- honor, a privilege, and a duty. When George Washington, but as Masons moting the theme that the “Future you achieved the ultimate status of we are all cut from the same cloth. of Freemasonry Is Up To You.” Master Mason, you were told that So if you are not already there, it is This message for a bright future this is just a beginning. They meant time to take responsibility for the needs to be carried to every it! You could be a Master Mason for world around you and do what Masonic District, every Masonic thirty years and you are just getting it takes to really earn that ring on Lodge, and each member of our started on this journey. This Masonic your fi nger. lodges. If we expect to see changes path really has no end, it just gets The Future of Freemasonry for the betterment of all, each of us wider the further we travel down it. Is Up To You. will need to take the responsibility for seeing that it happens. That is Grand Master Todd to Focus Charitable not to say that every member must Efforts of Student Assistance Training The Beacon is published quarterly. Grand Master Kevin B. Todd has announced that the Masonic Model Student Please report all changes of address to your Assistance Program (MMSAP) will be his main charitable focus this year. He lodge secretary, who, in turn, will notify the Grand Secretary, who maintains the database hopes to raise awareness among Masons and participation by schools as well that produces the BEACON mailing labels. as to increase fi nancial support. Chad Simpson The MMSAP is a three-day, intensive program that trains teams of school Director of Program Development The Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Ohio personnel to identify and intervene with at-risk students. This training is P.O. Box 629 sponsored by the and provided at no cost to schools. Worthington, OH 43085-0629 614/885-5318 The program was created in 1985 by Brothers Lawrence Newman and [email protected] Thomas Stecher, who each has thirty plus years of experience Kristen Hirschfeld in education. It was fi rst brought to Ohio in 1996. Since that Communications Manager time hundreds of schools have been trained. The program The Ohio Masonic Home 2655 W. National Road is continually updated to ensure that the materials presented Springfi eld, OH 45504-3698 are as up-to-date as possible. 937/525-3025 [email protected] More information is available on the Charity section of www.freemason.com. 2 FALL 2011 Thanksgiving

By Tom Stofac, Chief Executive Offi cer of The Ohio Masonic Home

I don’t know about you but On a personal note I have had Thanksgiving is one of my favorite many blessings to be thankful for holidays. Good food, family, friends this year. My oldest daughter was and football are certainly some of married this past August to a fi ne my favorite things. However, the gentleman that I am pleased to have best part of the holiday for me is as a son-in-law. being able to refl ect on the people There are many more people and things that have touched my and things I am grateful for this life throughout the year and made a year but one of the most important difference to me. is my health. It seems as we look This year I am blessed and around, we need each other now thankful to call you my brothers more than ever to assist in one and my friends. As many of you another’s physical, fi scal, spiritual may know, I was raised a Master and mental health. I want you to Thomas J. Stofac, CEO Mason on September 29, 2011. The know that The Ohio Masonic Home experience was wonderful and wants to be a part of your life in any awe inspiring. Clearly it will be way we can. We also want to ask your time, talent a memory I will cherish forever. that you consider being a partner and treasure for The history of the degree was with us in the capital campaigns together we can very moving, and the ceremony at Western Reserve and Browning become the trusted was meaningful to me personally. as we respond to the needs of our resource to help Thank you to those who attended Brothers and the community who each other age and to the entire fraternity for are affl icted with the brutal disease respectfully. supporting me through this we call Alzheimer’s. May you have process. Very few times in my life As we progress into the holiday a very blessed have I been rendered speechless season and the end of the year, holiday season. but I must admit this was one of please consider the needs of our those times where I was truly at a residents and the organization with loss for words. In addition I am thankful for the many new friends I have come to Trustees Travel to Assist in the Raising of know. The Ohio Masonic Home Brother Stofac - Continued from page 1 is such a wonderful organization Presiding in the second half of the degree was Past Grand and the support you have given Master (1984) C. Rolland Lattanner, who recalled that in to the Home is a testament to the 1984 as Grand Master, he held the same station when he good works and deeds you have raised the then-CEO of The Ohio Masonic Home. accomplished over the past 120 The Trustees who took part were MWB Terry W. Posey; years. The Home’s rich history and RWB Michael Puskarich (Chairman of the Board of proud traditions are something I Trustees); WB Dr. Ross Black, WB Richard Holcombe, WB am very thankful for being a part of Kermit Zimmerman; RWB Clarence Jack Hartzell; RWB now and in the years to come. Ronald Connelly; RWB William Stratton; and WB Steve Duncan. Brother Stofac was suitably impressed and for a short time was at a loss for words. He recovered quickly and thanked his friends and brethren for their attendance and support. ~MWB Terry W. Posey

FALL 2011 3 Buckeye “ GM to Lead Florida Reunion”

Luncheon Dates & Locations: Grand Master Kevin Todd and several other Grand Lodge offi cers will again be bringing a “Buckeye Please note change in the Tavares schedule. Reunion” to Florida in January. They will share news of Saturday, January 14 - Tavares the Grand Lodge and the new Masonic year. Lake County Shrine Club - Noon Please call the OMH Foundation at 1/888-248-2664 424 North Duncan Rd. (Route 19) Tavares, FL 32778-3157 to make reservations; do not write for reservations. All 352/343-2582 reservations are to be made through the Foundation. Host: Ill. Brother Alan Blevins, 33˚, 352/753-0716 (Please do not mail a reservation or “walk in”…. Monday, January 16 - Sarasota we need to speak with you to make certain we have Peridia Golf and Country Club - Noon the correct information regarding your reservation.) 4950 Peridia Blvd. East, Bradenton, FL 34203-4052 Thanks to a subsidy of the meal cost by The Ohio 941/758-2582 Masonic Home, the luncheon cost remains at $6 per Host: Right Worshipful Brother Ken Gavins, 941/925-4586 person! Send checks payable to OMH Foundation, Tuesday, January 17 - Ft. Myers to: OMH Foundation, Five Masonic Dr., Springfi eld, Araba Shrine Center - Noon OH 45504-3658. Make notation in “Memo” section of (Note: Limited to 170 reservations) check: GM’s Luncheon and date for your reservation. 2010 Hanson St., Ft. Myers, FL 33901-7296 Reservations must be made by Friday, January 3. 239/334-2226 Contact the local hosts with any questions. Host: Right Worshipful Brother Dick Scobie, 419/277-2438

Kevin B. Todd Installed Grand Master of Ohio - Continued from page 1 son, Morgan (Washington Lodge Plastics Corporation. He continues Lodge of Ohio as the Junior Grand #17) and daughter, Shannon. to hold that position and designs Deacon in 2004. He progressed Morgan resides in Cincinnati, Ohio, aircraft components, tools, and through the Grand Offi cers Line to and works as an Environmental manufacturing processes for civilian be elected as Deputy Grand Master Geologist. Shannon, an Elementary and government aircraft projects. in 2010. At the conclusion of the School Teacher, is married to Ryan Todd has been involved with his 202nd Annual Communication of Mercer and resides in Columbiana, local community as an adult leader the Grand Lodge of Ohio, he was Ohio. Shannon and Ryan have two in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, elected to serve his Ohio Brethren sons, Riley and Colin. High School Band Boosters, Village as Grand Master, being installed as Education & Occupation Councilman, and a Session member Grand Master of Masons in Ohio, in After graduating from Geneva of the New Waterford Presbyterian Cleveland on October 15, 2011. High School, Geneva, Ohio, in Church. He is an instrument rated Brother Todd is a 33º member of 1972, Todd enrolled at Pittsburgh private pilot with his aircraft based the Valley of Youngstown, Ancient Institute of Aeronautics and out of Salem Airport. Accepted , and a graduated in 1974 with an Associates Masonic Affi liations member of Youngstown Chapter Degree in Aerospace Maintenance Brother Todd was raised a Master #93, Royal Arch Masons; Buechner and obtained his FAA Aircraft Mason in Mantua Lodge #533 in Council #107, Royal & Select Mechanics Licenses. He enrolled the 25th District in 1989 and then Masons; St. Johns Commandery in the Aerospace Technology became a member of Allen Lodge #20, Knight Templars; Aladdin program at Kent State University #276 in Columbiana, Ohio in 1990, Shrine, Youngstown Shrine where he received a Bachelors of where he progressed through Club; Aut Mori Grotto; Masonic Science Degree in 1977. Following the offi cer’s line to serve as the Motorcycle Club Chapter #3; and graduation from KSU, he was Worshipful Master in 1997. While an honorary member of New employed by several different serving as Lodge Secretary, he was Lisbon Lodge #65 and Proctorville aerospace companies located on appointed to serve as a District Lodge #550. Pam and Kevin are the East Coast. He returned to Deputy Grand Master in the 24th both members of Miriam Chapter Ohio in 1989 taking a position District in 2002 and 2003. MWB Jim #278, Order of the Eastern Star in as Senior Design Engineer with S. Deyo appointed Brother Todd Youngstown. the Saint-Gobain Performance to serve the Brethren of the Grand

4 FALL 2011 North Highlighting Our Services in the

In northern Ohio we’ve made a meet his or her personal home for two of our subsidiaries: needs. In addition, we Cornerstone Helping Hands, near have made our services Toledo, and Cornerstone Home available twenty-four Health Northeast, in Boardman. hours a day in order Both provide in-home companions to work around your to assist clients with a wide range schedule. of services. Whether a Mason If you require needs someone to plan and prepare skilled nursing care his meals, remind him to take Cornerstone Home medication or help with moving Health Northeast is the around the house, a caregiver is route you want to take. available. The tasks required by In addition to in-home each client are matched up with companions, they have an aide who is experienced in that a nursing staff capable area. Additional services such as of everything from light housekeeping, transportation post-surgery follow- assistance, and overseeing home up and therapy to maintenance needs are also offered. medication instruction These options give clients the ability and administration. to remain independent and to keep A few other services their home safely maintained. include IV infusions, An important feature of our care injections, catheter insertion and little time at a reasonable cost. Our which sets us apart from the rest of tracheotomy care. An expert over- nurses are trained by physicians the industry is that each person’s the-phone evaluation can have you from a wound care clinic on how to program will be specially tailored to on your way to receiving care in perform exceptional in-home care for wounds. By far the best part is that everything is done by experts in the comfort and privacy of your own home, because we believe in allowing people to age respectfully wherever they call home. If you are interested in any of the services above or if you would like to fi nd out what other services are available visit: www.cornerstonehelpinghands.org or www.cornerstonehealthcare.org

Or toll free: 1-877-564-0210 Cornerstone Helping Hands 1-877-684-5710 Cornerstone Home Health

FALL 2011 5 Rounds Making the

Access to lodges and various Every year the I-CARE service Masonic bodies is key to coordinators travel to the Grand spreading the word of the I-CARE Events throughout the state program. Since its inception along with many in the fraternity. in September and the Grand over six years ago, I-CARE seeks The seven coordinators set up Chapter, Grand Council and Grand to provide assistance to aging information booths which afford Commandery, culminating with Masons, wives, widows and them the opportunity to reach out Grand Lodge all in October, these Eastern Star members by helping personally to those in attendance. events provide the I-CARE service them plan for home care options Starting with Grand coordinators the opportunity to and linking them to community- Lodge in August, followed by meet new faces and renew old based services and benefi ts. Eastern Star Grand Chapter acquaintances. Referrals and invitations to make presentations at lodges across the state grow out of the relationships that are developed at these events. The spirit of cooperation between those lodges that have formed I-CARE committees and the service coordinators is unique. Their collective mission is to serve the senior members of the fraternity. If your lodge or District Association would like an I-CARE coordinator to speak about the program, please call the coordinator in your district. For more information you may visit the website at www.mssohio.org.

MAP AREA TOLL FREE LOCAL CALL Northwest 800-706-1709 419-779-0057 West Central 888-207-8472 937-605-5475 Southwest 800-706-1710 513-623-6528 Northeast 800-901-1431 330-730-7718 Central 866-453-8002 614-572-3507 Southeast 866-557-0671 740-262-1974 South Central 888-884-8096 740-270-9650

Ohio Masonic Home Joins Facebook Facebook is a free social Masonic Home will participate in this give everyone a better networking website that connects community, and keep you informed understanding of what millions of friends, families, and of our latest news and events through defi nes us as The Ohio companies. It contains the tools daily postings. Any member can Masonic Home. Our page can be for photo albums, messaging, browse through photo albums, leave found at: https://www.facebook. and forums to post thoughts and a comment, like us or share us with com/#!/pages/The-Ohio-Masonic- comment on others’. The Ohio friends and family. Our goal is to Home/183330278409420.

6 FALL 2011 Dedicated The Flying Flag Veteran’s Memorial

Resident Larry Yaw had a vision, a dream really, about creating a tribute to Veterans on the campus of Browning Masonic Community in Waterville. So, with the help of the other residents of the community, they raised the money for six fl ag poles and the six fl ags they needed to make the dream a reality. On Sunday, September 11, 2011 those six fl ags were raised by residents of Browning and their friends and families. President David Subleski, welcomed

everyone to the dedication. After the ceremony they moved on to the tent where there was great music, Old Fashioned Lemonade, hot dogs and ice cream. One man’s vision became a reality on the campus of Browning Masonic Community, with a little help from his friends and neighbors and the Masonic Community all working together.

George O. Braatz Named Executive Director of National Masonic Service Association The Masonic Service Association for the acceptance of applications by of North America (MSA) announced the executive commissioners. that George O. Braatz, Past Grand “The Executive Commissioners of Master and Past Grand Secretary the MSA are extremely excited by this of Ohio, was selected out of a pool selection. They look forward to the of twenty applicants to serve as the continuing service of the MSA to all new Executive Secretary of the MSA. member jurisdictions and Masonry in The MSA began a search for general with the support of Brother a new Executive Secretary in the Braatz as executive secretary,” statistical reports, Disaster Relief and fall of 2010 after Brother Richard explained Chairman William G. administers a Hospital Visitation Fletcher submitted his resignation. Roberts, PGM of Nevada. Program across North America. For Announcement was made to all The MSA was formed in 1919 and more information about the MSA member jurisdictions of MSA, and is headquartered in Silver Spring, visit: www.msana.com. a deadline of June 1, 2011 was set MD. It provides educational material,

FALL 2011 7 GainingMomentumMemory Care Centers Campaign

“Memory, All alone in the the need to care for their residents Over the course of the past year moonlight, I can smile at the old days, who have memory issues, but much has been accomplished in I was beautiful then, I remember the never have had the proper the form of selecting an architect time I knew what happiness was, Let facilities to do so. The worst part and developing plans and the memory live again.” Lyrics from is both Browning and Western drawings that will eventually lead Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical Reserve Masonic Communities to the construction of a twenty- Cats written by Trevor Nunn can have had to relocate (collectively) four bed building on each campus. stir a sentimental emotion in just over fi fty residents in a thirty-two In addition, over 150 volunteers about everyone of us, but what month period. This was due to the have been assembled to establish about a person with Alzheimer’s fact that neither community had 15 committees which have been disease? What is their memory? a dedicated and secure building tasked to raise nearly $7 million. If you have ever known in which to safely care for their Soon you will be hearing from someone with Alzheimer’s disease residents stricken by Alzheimer’s. these volunteers and staff to join or dementia you know it can be Since fi rst being announced in the drive to build these much a slow progressive illness that in the November/December needed facilities. robs individuals of their ability to 2010 edition of the Beacon, the In the end, the fi nished enjoy living an independent life. memory care buildings at the buildings and the accompanying In addition, with virtually no hope Browning Masonic Community memory care program will allow for recovery, it creates a heavy and the Western Reserve Masonic residents to better cope with this burden on the caregiver who must Community have gained debilitating disease. The fraternity watch their loved one cope with momentum. These new additions has always been proud of the work this disease. will be a joint venture between the it has done on behalf of fellow Browning Masonic Community fraternity and the communities of and Western Reserve Masonic Waterville and Medina. Community have long recognized

8 FALL 2011 Western Reserve Browning Masonic Community

Masons. Since the laying of the cornerstone in 1892 in Springfi eld, The Ohio Masonic Home has always had a reputation for Care, Concern and Compassion in the name of Ohio Freemasonry. The dementia care projects, which will soon be constructed at Browning Masonic Community and Western Reserve Masonic Community, will be no different. Each Memory Care Center will provide the level of care that each of its residents needs. Our goal, and our commitment, is to be the trusted resource to age respectfully. So when you are asked to support the campaign, please respond with a generous “Yes!” Together we can “Let the memory live again.”

Masonic Community FALL 2011 9 Lodges News from the

Matamoras Lodge #374 Reaches Out to Community With the nation’s continued tough economic conditions, the members of Matamoras Lodge #374, New Matamoras, Ohio, decided it was time to get back to good old Masonic principles by reaching out to their community. The Lodge has established a scholarship committee, which raised $3,300. The money will provide four scholarships. Two will be awarded to relatives of lodge members and two to graduates of the local high schools. The Lodge also created the Blizzard Box program, which provides local shut-ins, the elderly and handicapped with an emergency box of non- perishable food and other supplies for use during a winter storm or power outage.

From left Bill Creighton and Worshipful Master Terry Pringle of Matamoras Lodge

Extraordinary Grand Master Todd has announced that August 2012 will be Ohio month at the George Washington Masonic Memorial. To commemorate Master Mason this he will grant special dispensation for one candidate from each of the 25 Masonic Districts in Ohio to be raised a Master Mason in the lodge Degree to Be Held room at the Memorial during an extraordinary conferral of the Master in Alexandria, VA Mason degree. More details regarding this event will be released in the near future.

Three Generations of Masons in Harmony Lodge #8 Urbana Brother Jonathan Douglas Shirk was recently raised a Master Mason, which made him the third generation of his family to join Harmony Lodge #8, Urbana, Ohio. His grandfather, Clarence Shirk joined Harmony Lodge in 1983, and Jonathan’s father, Dan, joined in 1990. Past Grand Master C. Rolland Lattanner presided over Brother Shirk’s raising. He was assisted by members of Harmony Lodge and From left: RWB Dan Shirk, Jonathon Shirk, MWB C. Rolland various other Lodges in the 9th District. Lattanner and Clarence Shirk.

10 FALL 2011 Memorial held to mark 110th Anniversary of McKinley Assassination Canton area Masons marked the 110th anniversary of the assassination of President and Brother William McKinley by holding a Masonic memorial service on the steps of the McKinley National Memorial. The service was jointly conducted by members of William McKinley Lodge and Niles McKinley Lodge. As a part of the memorial service, a Civil War soldier, Freemason and statesman. At the number of brief historical accounts were conclusion of the service, Worshipful Masters Goutras shared regarding McKinley’s life as a and Nutter placed a wreath at the memorial.

Grand Master to Recognize Ohio’s Masonic Pilots The Grand Master has Engineer. 2012 will make 40 commissioned a limited quantity of years that I have been involved lapel pins specifi cally for Masons with aviation on many levels. who are or were pilots. This pin can I want to celebrate this great only be obtained in person, directly occupation and avocation along from the Grand Master. with my love of Freemasonry,” There are only a few criteria for explained Grand Master Todd. receiving one of these pins: is no longer current or if he was “If you are a Mason and an Aviator, 1. It must be obtained directly from a military pilot and has not fl own please see me personally for one of the Grand Master at any event. since leaving the military. Fixed these pins...while they last. If you offer wing or rotary wing does me the hand of friendship and one of 2. You must be a Master Mason. not matter. your aviation stories, I will be pleased 3. The Brother receiving the pin must “I have a passion for aviation as to give you one of my Masonic Wings be a pilot or have been a pilot in an FAA Licensed Pilot and Aircraft Pins in return.” the past. He qualifi es even if he Mechanic, and as an Aerospace

Brother to Brother Creator Receives P. Dean Gerber Award Brother Ronald Murphy, Harrison Lodge #219, Cadiz, Ohio, received the 2011 P. Dean Gerber Award at the 203rd annual communication of the Grand Lodge of Ohio. Brother Murphy is a prostate cancer survivor on a mission to help support his fellow Masons suffering from cancer through the Brother to Brother program. Brother to Brother is a support network of Freemasons who are cancer survivors and who are willing to share some brotherly love and an attentive ear with others who are newly diagnosed. Any Mason who is a cancer survivor or who is currently battling cancer may contact Brother Murphy at [email protected] or 216/702-6785.

FALL 2011 11 Solomon Serving as from the Springfi eld Masonic Community

Anyone who has participated in a also a great chance to get into your advantage of the opportunities to Masonic raising ceremony will tell character and ham it up a bit.” stay active. Rollie was one of many you that it is unforgettable. Most recently, Rollie served as members of the fraternity who The advancement from the degree Solomon when he presided over worked at Nationwide Insurance of Fellowcraft to the third and the raising of Ohio Masonic before retiring as a manager in the highest degree, Master Mason, Home’s Chief Executive Offi cer Accounting department. is the most signifi cant step in the and now Master Mason, Tom “Many companies, including fraternity. The rich pageantry and Stofac. The ceremony was Nationwide, had teams available drama of the ceremony refl ect its conducted at St. Andrew’s Lodge to conduct the raising ceremony,” tremendous importance. #619 in Springfi eld. Rollie said. “We would travel to Past Grand Master Few people have the lodges all over the state to perform.” C. Rolland Lattanner opportunity to preside While the Masonic communities (1984) has participated over the raising of an are open to everyone, not just in more than one organization’s CEO. For Masons and their spouses, hundred raisings over Rollie, it was actually his many residents are active in the the past forty plus years. second time. fraternity. Rollie has participated “The ceremony is “In 1984, I was the in quite a few raisings while drawn from characters Grand Master of the State living at Springfi eld, and counted and events found in of Ohio,” Rollie recalled. nearly twenty residents at Tom the Old Testament,” “Someone phoned Stofac’s raising. Rollie explained. “In Past Grand Master and asked if I would After nearly 50 years in the the raising ceremony Rollie Lattanner preside over the raising for fraternity, Rollie remains excited for the third degree, the Milford Fickenscher, the about fellowship and the insights main character – and the character then- current CEO. They probably that it offers. Anytime the phone that I have the honor to play – thought it would be an honor to rings with a call from a lodge is King Solomon.” have the Grand Master there, but I asking whether he would be willing While the ceremony is a solemn felt it was a great honor for me to be to play the role of Solomon again, event rich with symbolic meaning, invited. How many Grand Masters you can bet that Rollie responds it also provides an outlet for the have the chance to raise The Ohio with an enthusiastic “Yes!” participants to exercise their Masonic Home’s CEO? And I got to dramatic talents. raise two of them!” For more information on Springfi eld “There’s a lot to remember both Rollie and his wife, Joy, have Masonic Community and the for the person being raised and for lived in their patio home at the Cardiac Recovery Program, call all of the brethren conducting the Springfi eld Masonic Community 888/290-2664 or visit us at ceremony,” Rollie said, “but it’s for fi ve years, and they take full www.springfi eldmasoniccommunity.org.

Trustees, Grand Lodge offi cers, WM of St. Andrews #619 and staff members congratulate Brother Tom Stofac on becoming a Master Mason.

12 FALL 2011 RomanianRepresentative Visits His Ohio Brethren

rother Mihai Bugaru B Brother Bugaru stands of Romania recently before the front door visited the Grand of the Grand Lodge Lodge offi ces in museum during his Worthington and was recent visit. able to visit the annual communications of the Grand bodies. outlawed Freemasonry Bugaru serves as the and persecuted its representative of the members. The Romanian Grand Lodge of Ohio Revolution of 1989 to the National Grand ended the communist Lodge of Romania. regime. The Grand “I would like to Orient of Italy then share fraternal chartered three lodges, greetings with all Ohio which were able to form Masons and invite the National Grand them to visit our lodges Lodge of Romania in in Romania as they 1993. Several elderly Brothers, who can,” explained Bugaru. “Our Axis Mundi Lodge #59, located in had been Freemasons in Romania universal brotherhood has many Sinaia, Romania. He later joined prior to the communist take over, great opportunities to share Demnitatea Romaneasca Lodge participated in the restoration of the brotherly love in a world too often #103 in Bucharest and served as fraternity to that country. torn by strife.” Worshipful Master in 2007. He Ohio Freemasonry has taken Bugaru and his wife have two subsequently joined the York Rite active steps to support the children, a daughter and a son. He bodies in Ft. Myers, Florida in 2002 development of Romanian has earned a PhD in Mechanical and was award the Knight York Freemasonry through the Sciences and one in Engineering Cross of Honor in 2009. establishment of Chapters, Councils Sciences, having studied in Freemasonry in Romania began and Commanderies of the York Romania and abroad. Bugaru owns in 1734 and continued to exist Rite. The has his own security business which he in that country as late as 1947, also received permission to use the operates with his son. with a seven year cessation from ritual of the Grand Lodge of Ohio Bugaru took his fi rst steps 1937 to 1944. The post-World in those Romanian Lodges that along his Masonic journey in War II Communist government desire to use it.

Grand Master of Ohio Enters the Blogosphere Grand Master Kevin B. Todd as Grand Master, but it will also has announced that he is keeping provide a chance for each Ohio a blog this year as Grand Master. Mason to share those activities with Ohio Masons are encouraged me even if they are not able to be to follow along with the Grand there in person,” explained Grand Master through his travels this Master Todd. year by visiting the blog at Grand Master Todd is the second gmohio.blogspot.com. Ohio Grand Master to keep a “Keeping a blog will serve as a blog. Past Grand Master Terry W. regular chronicle of my activities Posey was the fi rst to do so.

FALL 2011 13 FOUNDATIONS FOR GiftTHE FUTURE The First

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

As you receive this Beacon, with the 15 committees at the either campus or the campaign thoughts and plans are focusing on two campuses and those involved overall. Gifts that arrive with no the holiday season which is upon in oversight of the project to designation, will be be considered us. And, of course, one topic closely prepare for the actual solicitation gifts to the overall campaign.) linked to the holidays is gifts. of gifts. The time has arrived and As you consider your holiday While the holidays bring a special a group of volunteers is assisting gifts or individual year-end emphasis on gifts, here in the staff and campaign counsel in charitable giving, please consider Foundation, gifts are always on our making individual requests for a gift in support of these critically- mind. Not necessarily the kind that assistance from potential donors needed Memory Care Centers. If we typically think of in December previously identifi ed. And, as that you’ve seen the campaign video, but rather the kind that arrive from letter/appeal indicated, we invite… you truly understand why we so many of you on a regular, daily we need…you to support this must establish these Centers. basis in our offi ce…and for which important campaign! (If you haven’t seen the video we are always so grateful! In refl ecting on the campaign and would like to or would like It takes a lot of gifts to generate and all the preparations we’ve more information about the the support the Foundation made, I’m reminded of the fi rst capital campaign, please call the provides to the Home for its gift to the campaign which arrived Foundation offi ce at: 888/248- operations every year. And, as early this year even before the 2664.) You won’t make a better you’ve heard by now, it’s going campaign was formally announced. gift this holiday season and you to take a lot of gifts to reach our It came from a number of wives may be helping to create a facility $7 million goal for the 24-unit and widows of 33° Masons in the which will someday serve you or Memory Care Centers we are Valley of Youngstown and was a loved one in the fi ght against going to build at both Browning sent in memory of Marilyn, the this dreaded disease! and Western Reserve Masonic wife of one of those 33rds, Ill. Bro. To our appendant bodies Communities. By now, every Richard Roumfort. The Roumforts and their various clubs and brother in Ohio should have were residents of Western Reserve organizations…please consider received a letter/appeal about Masonic Community and Ill. following the example of the this important project. Additional Brother Roumfort still is. Organized ladies of the Valley of Youngstown information about the project and and coordinated by Arlene Elliott, and provide a gift in memory or Alzheimer’s is coming to you in a wife of RWB Phil Elliott, 33°, in honor of someone you want to newsletter you will shortly receive. Deputy’s Representative for the recognize in your group. Information about this project has Valley of Youngstown, it originated May these gifts bring to you built over the last several months as at last year’s 33rd’s Christmas that inner glow of satisfaction and we’ve been working party and provided in excess of knowing you’ve done something $1,200, giving us a great start. special to help others at this And what a wonderful holiday season. Happy Holidays memorial gift to to you and yours from all of us recognize Mrs. in the Foundation offi ce! Roumfort! Because Best wishes for a blessed and of the Roumforts’ prosperous 2012! affi liation with Western Reserve, For more information about this gift was how to make a gift, contact dedicated to the Foundation toll free at that campus. 888/248-2664 or write to us at: (Gifts can Five Masonic Drive, Springfi eld, be given to 45504-3658. Visit us at our web site: www.omh-bef.org.

14 FALL 2011 Generosity Thank You For Your

We offer our grateful appreciation to the estates, individuals, groups or other Masonic bodies who have supported The Ohio Masonic Home with gifts given between June 1 and August 31. $10,000 + Valley of Youngstown, AASR Irville Lodge #184, F&AM Brister, Charles E. Venus Lodge #152, F&AM Johnson, Owen E., M.D. & Joyce Brodbeck, Helen E. Wayfarer Lodge #789, F&AM Kempton, Isabel J. Brodbeck, Marvin E. White, Margaret P. & Lloyd E. Krams, Donald A. & Sharon C. Carl, Mark C. Williams, Frank R. Kuhn, Johnny J. Dodderer, Frank E. Xenia Lodge #49, F&AM Lattanner, C. Rolland & Joy G. Frank, Walter Yellow Springs Lodge #421, F&AM Leetonia Lodge #401, F&AM Gantner, Jacob G. Lewandowski, Thomas Herrick, Elizabeth $100 - $499 Lincoln Lodge #693, F&AM Laming, Russell C. Albin, Paul F. & Carol A. Lockbourne Lodge #232, F&AM Sturdivant, Webster Archer, Harry Wayne Lone Star Lodge #175, F&AM Valley of Cincinnati, AASR Arnold, Dan C. & Patricia Losasso, Donald L. & Theda Wilson, Henry R. & Sarah M. Bainter, John Miller Manchester Lodge #317, F&AM Zorn, Mary Bartlett Lodge #293, F&AM Marion Lodge #70, F&AM Bellville Lodge #376, F&AM Mason Lodge #678, F&AM $5,000 - $9,999 Black, Ross R., II & Linda Masonic Square Residents’ Council Colburn, Frank R. Blankenship, Steven L. Mentor Lodge #772, F&AM Kelly, William H. Bridgeport Lodge #181, F&AM Mid-Century Lodge #725, F&AM Moss, George K. Butlerville Lodge #135, F&AM Miller, Charles David Schulze, Vivian H. Calvin, Delo A. Morgan, Wayne N. Capital City Lodge # 656, F&AM Mowry, David Dee & Kathy $2,500 - $4,999 Celina Lodge #241, F&AM New Harmony Lodge #435, F&AM Davis, Orlando W. Chester Lodge #238, F&AM New Holland Lodge #392, F&AM Oberle, Betty H. Clarington Lodge #597, F&AM New Straitsville Lodge #484, F&AM Seifert, Dorothy T. & Myron T. Clermont Social Lodge #29, F&AM Nichols, Junior A., U.S.A.F., Ret. & Sheeler, Howard M. Connelly, Ronald L. & Elaine M. Ursaline J. Creps, Michael R. Noble, Craig A. & Lisa S. $1,000 - $2,499 Dalton Lodge #578, F&AM Norwood Chapter 193, RAM Arters, George D. & B.J. Dayton Lodge #147, F&AM Palapo, Erasmo Brookville Lodge #596, F&AM Drake, Carla Parker, Dale William Grand Commandery of Ohio, KT Duncan, Steven A. & Toni Parker, James B., IV & Barbara Logston, Tommy A. & Marlene East Liberty Lodge #247, F&AM Past Grand Master’s Wives McMakin Lodge #120, F&AM East Palestine Lodge #417, F&AM Peebles Lodge #581, F&AM New England Lodge #4, F&AM Eastern Star Lodge #55, F&AM Phelps, Edgar R. Scioto Lodge #6, F&AM Edenton Lodge #332, F&AM Posey, Terry W. & Cheryl Tippecanoe Lodge #174, F&AM Ehlers, Arther & Ermille Puskarich, Michael T. & Judy Valley of Cambridge, AASR Englewood Lodge #743, F&AM Reisinger, LeRoy Valley of Columbus, AASR Euclid Lodge #599, F&AM Robinson Locke Lodge #659, F&AM Wooley, Clyde E. Fairborn Lodge #764, F&AM Sager Lodge #513, F&AM Farmersville Lodge #482, F&AM Sardinia Lodge #254, F&AM $500 - $999 Feller, David Wayne & Bonnie J. Shank, Harold & Josephine 22nd Masonic District Association Flat Rock Lodge #580, F&AM Sikorski, Randolph R. Alpha Lodge #729, F&AM Forest City Lodge #388, F&AM Springfi eld York Rite Association Ebenezer Lodge #33, F&AM Fostoria Lodge #288, F&AM Stanford, Christopher J. Elyria Lodge #787, F&AM Fouch, Edward L. & Carol Temperance Lodge #73, F&AM Hosler, Bessie V. Franklin Lodge #14, F&AM Trinity Lodge #710, F&AM Karth, Charles E. & Marjorie J. Garrett Wykoff Lodge #585, F&AM Troy Chapter #256, OES Kelly, Floyd Gerard Lodge #428, F&AM University Lodge #631, F&AM Kreigh, Robert J. & Jean French Gettysburg Lodge #477, F&AM Valley of Dayton, AASR Milford Lodge #54, F&AM H.S. Kissell Lodge #674, F&AM Venger, Irving Benjamin Millennium Lodge #779, F&AM Hanover Lodge #115, F&AM Victory Chapter #210, RAM Moriah Lodge #105, F&AM Harrisville Lodge #137, F&AM Wakeman Chapter #177, RAM Norwood Winton Carthage Lodge Hebron Lodge #116, F&AM Walsh, Patrick M. #576, F&AM Herbell, Thomas P. Waltz, Jeffrey P. Nova Caesarea Harmony Lodge #2, Hildbold, Richard L. William Farr Lodge #672, F&AM F&AM Hingst, Carl & Marilyn Yeatman-Mt. Washington Lodge #162, Paramuthia Lodge #25, F&AM Hoffner Lodge #253, F&AM F&AM Science Lodge #50, F&AM Holcomb, J. Robert & Antoinette Youngblood, Bonnie & John H. Shrive, Harold George Huddleston, Clyde Ray, Sr. Zimmerman, Kermit Vaughn & Susan Sylvania Pyramid Lodge #287, F&AM Ionic Lodge #438, F&AM

FALL 2011 15 BEACONA JOINT PUBLICATION OF THE GRAND LODGE OF OHIO AND THE OHIO MASONIC HOME 2655 W. National Road Springfi eld, Ohio 45504-3698 www.ohiomasonichome.org www.freemason.com

Service Recognizing

As their Board of Trustee term was established and we added and policy committee. He was also ends, The Ohio Masonic Home Cornerstone Home Health to Chairman of the Masonic Financial would like to recognize Illustrious the family. In addition, Dick Assistance Corporation board. Brothers Richard M. Holcombe and maintained an active life in Recently in addition Dan C. Arnold for their dedication the fraternity and at home, to his committee in serving on The Ohio Masonic being a former stock car obligations he was Home Board of Trustees. driver and having held the a part of the process Richard M. Holcombe, or Dick title of Grand Commander to choose the current as he is known to friends, was fi rst of the Grand Commandery, CEO Tom Stofac. appointed in Knights Templar At home, he leads 2000. Throughout of Ohio. However, an interesting life his time on the even the above list of as well, restoring board he has been commendations would antique automobiles an advocate for be incomplete without and piloting among taking action, mentioning his jovial Dan C. Arnold other hobbies. With having been personality. such a full and engaging quoted as saying, Fellow trustee Dan C. Arnold existence, it is no wonder Dan was “You can’t stand joined the board in 2009 bringing chosen to join The Ohio Masonic still and expect a personable attitude and Home’s Board of Trustees. to accomplish terrifi c work ethic. His Masonic It has been a privilege to have much.” Truer Richard M. Holcombe accomplishments speak for two such honest, hard-working words couldn’t themselves, including several and distinguished Masons have been spoken. Within his years titles recommending a strong involved in the well-being of of service Western Reserve Masonic fraternal commitment. When he took The Oho Masonic Home. Their Community and Cornerstone on his role as a trustee he became an support as men and as Masons Home Health and Hospice were integral part of the board and held will be missed and we wish them acquired, the I-CARE program a position on the strategic planning the best.

Memory Recently, all brethren in Ohio received an appeal letter, brochure and response envelope regarding the Memory Care Centers Capital Campaign. If you’ve already responded, Care thank you very much. If you haven’t yet, please consider….at this season of giving and thanksgiving….how you might be able to support this campaign with your own personal Campaign gift. We thank you for your consideration.