164 Years of Masonry in Pittsburgh

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H H H VOL. XXV NO. 3 January 2016 Raymond T. Dietz, 33° 121st Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania VVaalllleeyy ooff PPTeachingiitttt sschildrenbbuu withrr dyslexiagghh

he men and organizations pictured to the right are those who have made a $10,000T or more commitment to support the Valley of Pittsburgh Children’s Dyslexia Center Endowment Fund. Robert & Janice Emery & Carol David & Carol Robert & Jacqueline Jeff & Susan As Freemasons, we have always been Amend Anden Bagaley Beatty Biddle benevolent and charitable. For Scottish Rite Masons, our Charity is to teach children with dyslexia how to read. It is important in giving them social confidence. The teaching method is the Orton-Gilling- ham program. It is a one tutor –one student ratio. This method is very expensive but extremely effective. It costs approximately $5,000 a year for each child. Our goal is to Raymond & Lynn Fred & Kathy Robert Eckbreth James Ecker & James & Ellen Dietz Donatelli Donna Murtha Flanigan raise $2,500,000 to endow the Children’s Dyslexia Center for the future. To make it easier to make this commitment, you can spread out your $10,000 donation over a ten year period. For information, call 412-939-3579. The future of our children is our most important mission. I encourage each of you to have your picture on this page and be a BUILDER of this Masonic benevolence. Leland A. Hale, Jr. Jeff & Lauren Raymond & Dorothy James & Lisa Robert & P.J. Heiger James Jenkins Jones Your donation is tax-deductible. Thomas K. Sturgeon, 33° Active Member of Supreme Council

Builders Council Enrollment Form I pledge the sum of: $10,000 $15,000 Frank R. Mangery Jack Marsh John & Judy Roy & Sara Jane Jay & Joanne $20,000 $25,000 McCombs McCullough McElravy With payments in equal installments over a period of: 3 years 5 years 10 years. This pledge will be payable: Annually Semi-annually Quarterly *Monthly *Monthly payments may be made only by credit card. First payment of $ is enclosed. Deduct my pledge from my credit card when due: Ronald & Karen D. William Roberts Bruce A. Robinson Richard & Bette Don & Ginny MasterCard Visa American Express Plesh Rodibaugh Sauer Discover Other . Number Exp. date Name you would prefer in recognition:

This gift is anonymous. Signature Kurt & Nancy Gregory Triko George & Norma S. Timothy Warco Bob & Charlene Name Tesche Vance Wells

Address Homestead Amity City State Zip Lodge Washington Infinity Lodge Valley McCandles Ph. ( ) Date No. 45 Lodge No. 164 No. 546 of Lodge No. 582 Mail to: Builders Council, 3579 Masonic Way, Pittsburgh Pittsburgh, PA 15237-2700. F. & A.M. F. & A.M. F. & A.M. F. & A.M. toBB readuu –i oneill childdde eat arr time!ss CCoouunncciill

Help the Endowment Fund for Dyslexia

Mark & Patty George H. Cox Rick & Reneé James & Eda Mario & Linda Bill & Heather GROW! Bliler Cross Dean DeBlasio Dickey Make a Pledge or a Donation! GOAL: $2,500,000

100% 2,500,000

2,375,000 Howard & Sharon Donald & Debra Wallace & Leah Eric & Raylene Harvey & Carol John & Ruth Flynn Green Grossett Gumto Gumto Habel 90% 2,300,000

2,125.000

80% 2,000,000

1,875,000

Paul & Penny Paul & Jackie David & Sandy David & Judy John Kovac William & Babara 70% 1,750,000 Kappel Kauffman Kearns Kielman Magnotti, Jr. 1,625,000

60% 1,500,000

1,375,000

50% 1,250,000 Glenn & Mary Dr. Glenn & Roberta Jack & Carol Donald & Barbara John & Valerie Raymond & Joy Miller Miller Miller Murphy Nicklas Nicklas 1,125,000

40% 1,000,000

875,000

30% 750,000

Joseph A Schrock, Jr. James W. Seel William Shaw William Slater II Samuel & Judy Thomas & Joan 625,000 Spanos Sturgeon

Oakdale 20% 500,000 30th Chartiers Lodge No.669 375,000 In Memory of No. 297 W. Robert & 0% 250,000 District F. & A.M. Marion Jones

James & Annetta James & Jill Jeff & Sharon West West Wonderling GOAL $2,500,000 *RECEIVED *from donations, bequests, Pittsburgh Valley Supreme Unified pledges & fund raisers. Valley of Commandery Council Group “We make a living by what of Pittsburgh No. 1 Lodge No. 2 Valley of we get, but we make a life Legion of Knights by what we give.” Uniontown Pittsburgh IOOF Honor Templar – Bro. Winston Churchill H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H Celebrating 200 years of Brotherhood

ANCIENT ACCEPTED SCOTTISH RITE n NORTHERN MASONIC JURISDICTION n UNITED STATES OF AMERICA SUPREME COUNCIL, 33°

Corporate Headquarters: P.O. Box 519, Lexington, Massachusetts 02420-0519 781-862-4410 • Fax 781-863-1833 • ScottishRiteNMJ.org

Thomas K. Sturgeon, 33° Deputy for Pennsylvania

3406 Timberglen Drive Imperial, PA 15126 cell: 412-736-2525 email: [email protected]

November 21, 2015

It gives me great pleasure to congratulate III. Brother Raymond T. Dietz, 33rd on his installation as our new Grand Master. It has been my privilege to be personal friends with Brother Dietz for over twenty five years. I know that he has many great initiatives to bring to action during his term as Grand Master.

The more than thirty thousand members of the Pennsylvania Council of Deliberation, AASR stand staunchly behind the efforts of Brother Dietz. There is no question that he will make an exceptional Grand Master. The Active Membership and all of our members are excited to offer all possible support during his term of office.

On behalf of all Scottish Rite Masons in Pennsylvania, we congratulate Brother Ray as he assumes the highest office in Pennsylvania .

Fraternally, Thomas K. Sturgeon

Thomas K. Sturgeon Deputy for Pennsylvania

"We will strive to be a fraternity that fulfills our Masonic obligation to care for our members."

January 2016 The Rite News Page 4. H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

Congratulations Grand Master Dietz from the Presiding Officers of the Valley of Pittsburgh

ost of us—if not all of us—were in- the Valley of Pittsburgh, has created deep troduced to Freemasonry by our fa- bonds with our brothers in Scottish Rite. ther,M grandfather, brother, uncle, or other They too are everlasting and hard to de- family member. If not, then it was most likely scribe. On December 28, 2015, in the David L. Donald W. Boehm, 33° by someone close to us who we consider to Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, Commander-in-Chief be a “family” member. Pennsylvania, Brother Raymond T. Dietz, Pennsylvania Consistory Freemasonry has a long, rich, and storied 33˚, was installed as the 121st Right Wor- history of family. As members we address shipful Grand Master, of the of each other as Brothers. And we indeed are Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Brothers—fraternal Brothers. We are all very Brother Dietz is a 23-year member of the different men, we share different ideas, we Valley of Pittsburgh, past officer, and was lead separate lives, we may even disagree. coroneted a Member of the Supreme Council But we have a common belief, and a com- of the Sovereign Grand Inspectors General mon bond, and a common love for one an- of the Thirty-Third and Last Degree of the other. It is a different love than what we have Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freema- for our mother, our spouse, and our children. sonry for the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction of the United States of America in 2006. Rodney E. Boyce, 33° How do we define this love? How do we Sovereign Prince describe it? How do we explain it? Brother Dietz is our friend. He is a true Pittsburgh Council of Princes leader in our Valley and our Fraternity. He is of Jerusalem “You’ve got to find some way to say it a part of our family. We beam with pride and without saying it.” pledge our support and loyalty to his new — Brother Edward “Duke” Ellington, ideas, concepts, and solutions for our ever- Entertainer evolving Fraternity. He is dedicated to mak- ing our Fraternity better. He is dedicated to Raymond T. Dietz, Right Worshipful Grand serving with passion, with love, and with a Master, explains how he was introduced to new vision. He is dedicated to helping those the Craft—“by witnessing the fraternal love in need and advancing our Fraternity as a between my father and my ‘uncle’ Ray. Both place of hope and compassion for others. men could not have been more different, be “What we have done for ourselves alone, it in their political ideals, their field of employ, dies with us; what we have done for others or their chosen paths in life. And yet they Larry D. Horath, 32° and the world, remains and is immortal.” Most Wise Master were truly the best of friends—even more Pittsburgh Chapter of Rose Croix so—they were the best of Brothers whose — Brother , Attorney, Soldier, admiration and compassion and love for one Masonic Writer another was unyielding.” As officers, members, and friends of this “Uncle” Ray was not a relative in the tradi- great Scottish Rite Valley, we heartily con- tional sense of the word—he was not blood— gratulate Ill. Brother Dietz on this auspicious but instead a man so esteemed by the father occasion. of Brother Dietz, that he named his son in his We look forward to your inspiration and honor. leadership as we chart a new course over the next two years! The Scottish Rite, too, puts a strong em- v phasis on family. Each of us, as members of Congratulations! Robert B. Ruff, 32° Thrice Potent Master Gourgas Lodge of Perfection Spes Mea In Deo Est January 2016 The Rite News Page 5.

H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

MASONIC TEMPLE , ONE NORTH BROAD STREET PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA 19107 215-567-5836

128 HOMEWOOD AVENUE BELLE VERNON, PENNSYLVANIA 15012 724-929-9153 [email protected]

December 6, 2015

I would like to extend Knightly Greetings and Congratulations to Brother Raymond T. Dietz, our newly installed Right Worshipful Grand Master.

I have known the Grand Master for many years. I find him to be a good Christian, family man, friend, and Freemason.

The Officers and members of the Grand Commandery of Pennsylvania extend to you our best wishes for an enjoyable and productive term and we pledge our support to you in all of your endeavors. John A. Habel, Jr., 33° Grand Commander In Templary.

John A. Habel, Jr. John A. Habel, Jr. Grand Commander Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of PA

January 2016 The Rite News Page 7. H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

Jeffrey M. Wonderling, 33°, installed MEMBERSONLY join us R.W. Junior Grand Warden rother Jeffrey Wonderling was for an evening born in Ridgway, PA on Febru- aryB 27, 1960. He resided in Allegheny to celebrate the County until 1990 when he moved to Westmoreland County where he currently resides. He was educated in the public schools and graduated from Gateway Senior High School in 1978. Bro. Wonderling is a member of Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church, Delmont, PA where he has served on Church Council, chaired two capital campaigns, and currently serves on the Finance Committee. He has in been active in his community serving Scottish on the Board of Directors for the American Heart Assoc. and he is Sharon and Jeffrey M. Wonderling, 33° Rite currently serving as Secretary of the Junior Grand Warden of the Grand Board of Directors for the Better Lodge of Pennsylvania Business Bureau of Western PA. Bro. Wonderling is employed by Croix in 2012. He was Elected Flynn’s Tire Group as a Territorial Second Lieutenant Commander of Thursday, Manager and he has specialized in Pittsburgh Consistory in 2014 and February 4, 2016 business development for over thirty will advance to 1st Lieutenant Com- STATED MEETING years. mander on September 1, 2016. He began his career with E. W. Tire He is a member of the Builders Co. in 1977. He was employed by the Council for the Endowment of the Dinner @ 6PM Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. from Pittsburgh Center for Dyslexia and a traditional Scottish meal 1984 - 1997. was Coroneted a Honorary Member He is married to the former Shanon of Supreme Council 33rd Degree in Stated Meeting @ 7PM Lee (Raab) and he is the father of two Chicago in 2006. featuring a special program stepsons Thomas and Michael Bah- Bro. Wonderling was appointed a ney He is he grandfather of Julia and District Deputy Grand Master of the Entertainment @ 8PM Dylan Bahney. 30th Masonic District of the Grand Dessert will be served immediately Bro. Wonderling was raised a Lodge of Pennsylvania, 1999 thru after the performance Mason in King Solomon’s Lodge No. 2005 . He served on the Committee 346, serving as Worshipful Master in on Masonic Homes from 2007 1998. He is a Charter member of through 2014. He is the recipient of entertainment by the Lodge Ad Lucem No. 812 - serving as the Century Award for Conferring Warrant Secretary in 2007 and 2008. over 100 Degrees and the Grand He is a member of the Pennsylvania Masters Outstanding Service Award Seton Hill University Lodge of Research and Co-founded in 2014. He is also a member of the the outdoor Meeting in the Hills in Masonic Villages Franklin Society. Pipe Band 1998. Other Masonic Affiliations include In Masonry, Bro. Wonder- Honorary Member of the DeMolay This event is open to members only. ling is a member of Connellsville Legion of Honor, Syria Shrine, Pitts- Call 412-939-3579 for dinner reservations. Royal Arch Chapter No. 283 where he burgh, PA, Caravans No. 8 and 20, Dinner cost is $10. Dinner reservations served as Most Excellent High Priest the Royal Order of Jesters, Court must be made by January 29, 2016. in 2000 – Kedron Commandery No. No. 2, , Tall 18 and , Cedars of Lebanon, Westmoreland U.S. Premier Conclave. Forest No. 77, Forbes Chapter No. In the Scottish Rite of Masonry, he 524 Order of the Eastern Star where is a member of Uniontown Lodge of he is a Past Worthy Patron, Irwin The Pittsburgh Chapter of Rose Croix will Perfection, serving as Thrice Potent Chapter No. 400, Order of the East- preside at the February 2016 Stated Meeting. Master in 2005, the Valley of Pitts- ern Star and Jeannette Court No. 25, Ill. Rodney E. Boyce, 33°, Most Wise Master burgh, serving as Most Wise Master , and is a Past v of the Pittsburgh Chapter of Rose Royal Patron.

January 2016 The Rite News Page 8. H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

December 10, 2015

On behalf of the Syria of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, I extend to you, Brother Noble Raymond T. Dietz, heartfelt and fraternal congratulations on your election and installation as the Right Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Many of us who are your friends have witnessed qualities in you that insure that you will be a great Grand Master.

We, the Syria Shriners, pledge our support to you in all of your endeavors over the next two years. You have clearly demonstrated the attributes that all seek in a Right Worshipful Grand Master, and we anticipate the leadership of wisdom and faith that you will provide.

Yours in the Faith, Robert W. Herbert

Robert W. Herbert Potentate

January 2016 The Rite News Page 9. ChristmasLuncheon 2015 In The Valley

Rebecca and Larry Horath

1st row: Sam Williamson, Sharon Wonderlling, Jeff Wonderling. 2nd row: Rodney Boyce, Irvin Boyce, Jean Boyce, P.J. Roup, Leslie Morgans, Dave Morgans

Margaret and Bill Johnston

Harvey and Carol Gumto

Lynn and Raymond Dietz Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvalnia

Mary Miller, Glen Miller, III , Roberta Miller, Dr. Glen Miller Robert and Janice Amend Rebecca and Larry Horath

Kari and Todd Ballenger Presiding Officers: Don Boehm, Larry Horath, Rodney Boyce

Vito Urso, Sandy Kearns, Marilyn Urso, David Kearns George Hulse

Al and Sibyl Kappeler

Dave and Leslie Morgans

Lynn and Raymond Dietz Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvalnia

Kari Ballenger, Leslie Morgans, Sharon Wonderling, Jean Boyce Sam Williamson and Norm Arthurs H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

make a great Fraternity even greater. On Monday, December 28, 2015, Bro onderling Raymond T. Dietz was installed as the FELLOWSHIP W 121st Right Worshipful Grand Master of onders ! The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. He by Jeffrey M. Wonderling, 33° has officially retired from the Mortgage Right Worshipful Junior Grand Warden Banking Industry to give his time, energy, and considerable talent to the Fraternity we all love. I pledge my support to him and 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. my service to you. I can’t wait to get Dear Brethren, started. Last Saturday of the Month ope, anticipation, The Grand Master, with the assistance (except December) excitement and of your Grand Lodge Officers, and staff, 00 per maybeH a fear of the un- has woven together a series of programs GPMC $ person known, are just a few designed to improve each individual Greater Pittsburgh Masonic6 Center emotions stirring as each Masonic experience. He has also been Buffet Features New Year approaches. working to improve our membership. Scrambled Eggs, Sausage, Bacon We hope for health and There will be new and innovative programs French Toast, Potatoes, Toast happiness for our fami- that I hope you will embrace. Times are lies, friends and loved changing and Freemasonry will change Milk, Coffee, Tea, Orange Juice ones. We anticipate what the future holds for with them. I would encourage your partici- H our careers and relationships and the excite- pation. Here are a few simple things you All Masons and Guests ment of it all is the spice of life. can do to help. If you have an idea, share WELCOME! H These feelings are also prevalent regarding it. When the opportunity presents itself to Groups & Parties our Fraternity. Every two years a new Grand assist a Brother or his family, help them. WELCOME! Master takes his station and the weight of our Share the story and purpose of our organi- If you have a large party, please Jurisdiction is placed upon his mantle. Can you zation with those men you covet in your call 412-939-3579 and let us know sense the excitement? Do you feel the antici- life. And most importantly, get involved. pation? I most certainly do? I hope the vision We are so much better with you than with- Served by that the Grand Master reveals as his term out you. The Grand Master needs your Ohio Valley Rainbow Girls begins will spur us to action. To have meetings assistance to move the Fraternity forward. Pittsburgh DeMolay v and events that you will want to attend and May God be with us as we go. Hosted by: share with other like-minded men. To continue “Foot to Foot” The Valley of Pittsburgh our mission of making good men better. To

Bro. Wally Grossett’s annual Christmas Luncheon Party

1st row: Arlene Pasinsky, Alberta Feightner, Elenore Beardsley, Lynn Whitaker. 2nd row: Howard Sproul, Daryl Sproul, Helen Crawford, Sissy Kengyel, Carol Tharpe, Margie Matevich, Patti Dunn, Wally Grossett, John Whitaker. 3rd row: Howard Crawford, Glen Irvin, Bill Kengyel, Don Thompson, Mike Matevich, Dr. Larry Dunn, Bob Tharpe.

January 2016 The Rite News Page 12. H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

December 9, 2015

Right Worshipful Raymond T. Dietz Of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons In Pennsylvania and Masonic Jurisdictions thereunto belonging.

It is with sincerest personal and fraternal respect that I congratulate you upon being elected Right Worshipful Grand Master of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons In Pennsylvania and Masonic Jurisdictions thereunto belonging.

Wayne C. Faupel, 33° On behalf of the over eight thousand members of the Grand Chapter in Pennsylvania I offer our support in all of your undertakings and in any capacity we can assist the Grand or subordinate Lodges in the Commonwealth.

May your years as Right Worshipful Grand Master be productive and rewarding and may the grace of God be with you always.

Sincerely and Fraternally, Wayne C. Faupel Wayne C. Faupel Most Excellent Grand High Priest

The Oldest Grand Chapter in the United States Serving Capitular Masonry in Pennsylvania since 1795

January 2016 The Rite News Page 13. H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H Masonic Rifle Fundraiser for Dyslexia Masonic Veterans Assoc. of Western Pennsylvania Mason's First Point Ceremony, all any Masonic Veterans are not aware of the in raised 24K gold relief against a Association of Masonic Veterans of Western enry Repeating background of classic floral engrav- PennsylvaniaM because they think it is based on a Arms is introduceing ing. military requirement. The Masonic Veterans are those the newestH rifle in its collection, The On the right side, black and white Masons who have been a member of the Masonic Henry Golden Boy Freemasons Trib- mosaic squares represent the floor Fraternity for a minimum of 21 years. Therefore any ute Edition. of King Solomon's Temple to illus- qualified mason is welcome to join and enjoy good “It recognizes the long history of trate "human life, checkered with fellowship at four stated meetings a year (second this honorable fraternal order and good and evil." Ascending stairs Wednesday in March, June, September and Decem- rewards the work and dedication of remind a member of the path to ber) held at the Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center Freemasons everywhere.” higher levels of Freemasonry, with and two special events (Corn roast in August and a The rifle is crafted with the high- another "G" at the top as the ulti- Past Presidents and Ladies Night in October). est attention to detail. The select mate goal. Membership applications are available from: American walnut stock depicts our It's built with the same smooth John A. Habel, Jr., Secretary first President in full Masonic action that all rifles in Henry's award- PO Box 31 regalia, with apron, trowel, and winning Golden Boy family are Monessen, Pennsylvania 15062-0031 Warden's column, standing on a known for. This model features a Email: [email protected] "temple" floor in front of a Masonic nickel-plated finish and the receiver Fee to join: $10.00 Annual dues: $5.00 staircase, in a painted tableau engravings are plated with 24K gold. bordered by scrollwork in the same The buttplate and barrel band are The stated meetings usually have a dinner before style as the receiver. brass. The American Walnut stock is a short business meeting followed by an interesting The left side carries the famous engraved and hand-painted. program for the enjoyment of the members. square and compass, retained from It features a fully adjustable semi- The Association of Masonic Veterans of Western the earliest days of Freemasonry, buckhorn rear sight with a reversible Pennsylvania was founded on November 30, 1885. It the mason's plumb, and level, the white diamond insert and brass was established to recognize the long and honorable letter "G" which stands for both God beaded front sight. It includes a service to the craft by members of the Masonic Frater- and Geometry, the All-Seeing Eye blued octagonal barrel and is drilled of God as the symbol of divine and tapped for easy scope mount- nity while they are still living instead of in an obituary. watchfulness, and the words ing. Offered in caliber .22 S/L/LR, It’s main goals are to retain existing friendship, to form BROTHERLY LOVE, RELIEF & capacity is 16 rounds of 22 Long new ones, to assist preserving the history of the craft, TRUTH that the order considers its and to set an example for the younger members. Rifle and asv much as 21 rounds of foundation, along with FAITH, 22 Short. The objects of this Association shall be: HOPE, CHARITY, emphasized in a • To strengthen the fraternal ties existing between those, who for a period of twenty one years or more, have been members in good standing of the Masonic lp Kids Fraternity. The Masonic Tribute Rifle He w it o h • To increase our zeal for and our devotion to the You could own this rifle for $5.00! Here’s how. t D e cherished principles of Freemasonry

y Make a voluntary contribution to the Valley d

i s

l • By our example to stimulate our younger brethren

R

School for Dyslexia. (A $5.00 minimum is e

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e in the pursuit of virtue and truth

i suggested) and we’ll do the rest - which a

includes conducting a random drawing for a W • To extend our knowledge of the Royal Art, that we July 30. may the better instruct our less informed brethren lucky winner on Saturday, Enter as

often as you like! Complete the coupon below and mail. • To make research into the history of Western Sponsored by Hiram’s Riders Motorcycle Club. Pennsylvania so far as it relates to Freemasonry • To preserve memorials thereof in our archives - Masonic Tribute Rifle - • To perform as men and Masons such things as we are dictated by the laws of humanity as well as the Here’s my contribution check for the School for v Dyslexia. $5 $10 $20 $50 $100 laws of the Craft. payable to Hiram’s Tribute Rifle. Name Thought Provoking Words! Remember those immortal words of Polonius giving Phone advice to his son Laertes as he departs from Denmark, Email on his return to France, in Shakespeare’s greatest play, Mail to: Hiram’s Riders, Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center, 3579 Hamlet – Masonic Way, Pittsburgh, PA 15237. Please include a stamped, self-addressed envelope for confirmation. “This above all, to thine own self be true, and it Questions? 412-576-5856 or [email protected] must follow as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man.”

January 2016 The Rite News Page 14. H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

Islam Grotto M.O.P.V.E.R. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 3579 Masonic Way Pittsburgh, PA 15237-2700 (412) 418-2655 George Gittens Michael Tomlinson, P.M. Monarch Secretary

December 11, 2015

The Officers and members of Islam Grotto congratulates Brother Raymond T. Dietz on being installed as the 121st Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.

Brother and Prophet Raymond T. Dietz became a Grotto member on June 21, 1979..

The Grottoes of North America is a charitable organization, dedicated to promoting Good Fellowship, Friendship, and fun amongst Master Masons.

The requirements for membership in the Order of Veiled Prophets is that a man must first be a Master Mason in good standing, and that he must con- tinue to maintain his good standing in his Blue Lodge in order to retain his standing in the Order. In no way does the Grotto infringe upon the rights and ceremonies of Masonry or of any other Order.

The Grottoes of North America Humanitarian Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization that brings “Special Smiles” to children with special needs by providing them much-needed dental care. The program helps cover the cost of dental treatment, including hospital and anesthesia cost, when needed, for children with cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and related neuromuscular disorders, those with mental retardation, and organ transplant recipients. may go without, one smile at a time."

Fraternally, George Gittins George Gittins Monarch

January 2016 The Rite News Page 15. H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

2 BIG FEBRUARY SPECIAL EVENTS

SUPERBOWL PARTY by P.J. Roup, 33° s we ring in a new year site soon for details on how to and celebrate the instal- become a charter member of Sunday, February 7, 2016 lationA of a new Grand Master, the club. it’s the perfect time to tell you We are pleased to announce A Tailgate Party starts about a new club being formed that our first production will be of at 4:00 p.m. at the Greater in the Valley of Pittsburgh: The Reginald Rose’s Twelve Angry Pittsburgh Masonic Center Ghost Light Theater Com- Men. Set entirely in a jury delib- featuring “Master Chef” pany. It takes its eration room, this Don Murphy’s famous hot name from the solitary drama takes a hard dogs, hamburgers, salads, light left burning on look at bigotry, intoler- desserts and beverages. stage when the theater ance, and the inherent After the ‘dinner party’ is closed. Some say it fallibility of human sit back, relax, have a is just there for safety. beings. This intense beer, and enjoy the 50th Others say it is there play has everything to ward off theater from stirring personal exciting NFL Superbowl ghosts. No matter revelations to edge-of- on the BIG, BIG, BIG which side you believe, Ghost your-seat tension. Cost? Only $5.00 (9’ x 12’) TV screen. Light is committed to bringing its Twelve Angry Men will be own magic to the Scottish Rite performed one night only, as Family and Friends are invited to join you. stage. the entertainment immediately Please RSVP to the Valley Office: 412-939-3579. Ghost Light will produce following the Stated Meeting on plays under their own auspices April 7th. Ladies and guests are Sponsored by the Valley of Pittsburgh and the Grotto beginning as entertainment for welcome to attend as well. Valley functions and eventually Admission is Free. for the general public. Member- Mark your calendars now, ship in Ghost Light is open to and see the next Rite News or NASCAR NEXTEL CUP all Scottish Rite Masons in good visit valleyofpittsburgh.org for standing. Whether you enjoy more information as the date acting, production, makeup, approaches. We hope to see costuming or stage crew – or you in the house, and we’ll be even if you would just like to sure to leave the Ghost Light on v support this new club – there’s for you. a place for you. Check the web-

READ THE DIRECTIONS

Sunday, February 21, 2016 Doors open at 12:30 p.m. FOX TV broadcast begins at 1:00 p.m. on the (9’ x 12’) TV screen in the Grotto room at the Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center. H H H Refreshments 50/50 Drawing Cards

Call the Valley Office at 412-939-3579 for reservations. Cost? Only $5.00 (for members) FREE TO POTENTIAL SPRING CLASS CANDIDATES WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS s Sponsored by the Valley of Pittsburgh

January 2016 The Rite News Page 16. H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

Avalon Lodge No. 657 525 Lincoln Ave Bellevue, PA 15202

Avalon Lodge No. 657 525 Lincoln Avenue December 28, 2016 Bellevue, PA 15202-3548 724-683-4785

To: Brother Raymond T. Dietz Right Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania 1 North Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19107

Dear Grand Master Dietz,

On behalf of the officers and members of Avalon Lodge No. 657, I would like to congratulate you on being installed Right Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania. We here at Avalon Lodge No. 657 are very proud to have you as a member of our lodge and look forward to an exciting and productive two years under your leadership.

Sincerely and Fraternally, John F. Pfaff John F. Pfaff Worshipful Master Avalon Lodge No. 657

Worshipful Master John F. Pfaff, Senior Warden Brandon P. Cooper, Junior Warden Christopher Galbreath, Treasurer Robert C. Robinson Secretary Gerald F. Grossi, Senior Deacon Alex Martinez, Junior Deacon Thomas Brantner, Senior Master of Ceremonies TBD Junior Master of Ceremonies Michael Hopkins, Pursuivant Brain Farren, Chaplain Thomas Sparke, Robert Nicho, Senior Steward Joseph A. Schrock. Trustee Jesse J. Stoltz, PM, Trustee Joseph A. Schrock, PM, Trustee David J. Corcoran, PM, Rep in Grand Lodge David Coopey, PM, Substitute Rep in Grand Lodge John C. Deller, PM.

January 2016 The Rite News Page 17. H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H Former resident leaves $10.9M to the Children's Home in Elizabethtown Heather Stauffer | Staff Writer | LancasterOnLine.com

he biggest donation that the degree in design from Syracuse University, Masonic Children’s Home in Eliza- then completing a master's degree from The Rite News bethtownT has ever received came as a Penn State University and graduate work VOL. XXV NO. 3 January 2016 surprise. It was from the late Dorothea at Lebanon Valley College, University of D. William Roberts, 33°, Editor Ilgen Shaffer, a former resident of the Pennsylvania, University of Mexico and home who left $10.9 million in her will. University of Bogata Columbia. D. Todd Ballenger, 33° ...... Features "To think, a child who grew up here in She taught art in the Harrisburg Area Dr. Glenn D. Miller, II, 33° ...... Columnist Rev. John M. Piper, 33° ...... Columnist 1914 would one day help provide for kids School District and married Maurice E. P.J. Roup, 33° ...... Columnist she'll never meet,” said Cindy Phillips, Shaffer, an attorney who died in 1997. Austin R. Shifrin, 32° ...... Columnist executive director of the Masonic Village at In an article commemorating Shaffer’s Jeffrey M. Wonderling, 33° ...... Columnist Elizabethtown, a retirement community life, Syracuse University reported she Mark E. Bliler, 33° ...... Proof Reader established by Pennsylvania founded a commercial interior “Education is William D. Johnston, 33° ...... Proof Reader Freemasons, which includes design firm named Ilco in 1933. Robert J. Binnie, 32° ...... Photographer the most powerful R the children's home. She and her husband made Kenneth . Brooks, 32° ...... Photographer weapon which you Phillips said the gift “will numerous gifts to the university, The Rite News magazine is the official publication of help youth for many years to can use to change including $3.25 million for what is the Valley of Pittsburgh, AASR, District of Pennsylvania, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, USA. Opinions ex- come, giving them a chance the world.” now called the Dorothea Ilgen to pursue opportunities they Shaffer Art Building. pressed are those of the author(s). Information is ob- – Nelson Mandela tained from correspondence, press releases, Masonic otherwise wouldn't have. ”The The Masonic Village said Shaf- publications and miscellaneous sources, which in many donation equals roughly five years of the fer also participated in many civic organi- cases, cannot be verified. Published four times a year. home’s operating budget, and no one had zations and served on various boards, Copyright© 2016, Valley of Pittsburgh, 3579 Masonic any idea it was coming, according to including as honorary trustee for Messiah Way, Pgh, PA, 15237. 412-939-3579. Masonic Villages spokeswoman Megan College and Syracuse University at the Leitzell. time of her death. Happy New Year Leitzell said Shaffer entered the home The children's home has installed a with her brother in 1914 at age 3 and lived plaque in Shaffer's memory, bearing a from the Staff there until she graduated from high school, quote attributed to anti-apartheid activist of the but did not have any recent involvement and former South African President Nelson with the nonprofit. Shaffer died in 2012 at Mandela. It says, “Education is the most Valley of Pittsburgh age 101, but closing her estate took a powerful weapon whichv you can use to Rite News while and the home just received the gift in change the world.” November. The mission The home, which currently has 40 residents, has housed more than 2,100 The Valley of Pittsburgh children since being established by the Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center Pennsylvania Freemasons in 1913. Leitzell said: “Today, the staff at the presents a free on stage production of the drama children's home see less children that are orphaned and more who might be raised by aging grandparents (and great grand- The Story of the parents), suffer from neglect and abuse and children who have parents that suffer financially, from addiction and mental Crucifixion illness or have been incarcerated.” Its website says parents or guardians need not relinquish their legal rights and Palm Sunday, March 20 – Curtain Time 3:00 p.m. may arrange biweekly visits. The home relies on donations, as it (optional) does not accept government funding. Dinner following performance $10.00 According to Phillips, Shaffer’s gift will fund daily necessities and education after high Please reserve show tickets (no charge). Enclosed is my check for $10 payable to school for the children. Life after the home Lodge of Perfection for dinner tickets. After graduating from high school and Name Phone ( ) leaving the home, Shaffer obtained exten- Mail to: GPMC, 3579 Masonic Way, Pittsburgh, PA 15237-2700 sive higher education, earning a bachelor's

January 2016 The Rite News Page 18. H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

VALLEY OF PITTSBURGH OFFICERS August 1, 2015 - July 31, 2016 Calendar of Masonic Events GOURGAS LODGE OF PERFECTION 14° Robert B. Ruff, 32° ...... Thrice Potent Master January 2016 Sam H. Jessee, 32° ...... Deputy Master 26 - High 12 Luncheon - Masonic Village at Sewickley Shawn P. Lang, 32° ...... Senior Warden Brian T. Wilding, 32° ...... Junior Warden 30 - Fellowship Breakfast - GPMC Branden T. Plesh, 32° ...... Orator February 2016 Zack S. Morgans, 32° ...... Master of Ceremonies 04 - VALLEY STATED MEETING - GPMC Jeffrey R. Jones, 32°...... Guard 07 - Super Bowl Party - GPMC PENNSYLVANIA COUNCIL, PRINCES OF JERUSALEM 21 - Daytona 500 Party - GPMC Larry D. Horath, 32° ...... Sovereign Prince 23 - High 12 Luncheon - Masonic Village at Sewickley William J. Wiker, 32° ...... High Priest Erastus Z. Allen, 32° ...... Senior Warden 27 - Fellowship Breakfast - GPMC Joseph G. Whitaker, 32° ...... Junior Warden March 2016 Robert M. Polander, 32° ...... Master of Ceremonies 20 - Story of the Crucifixion - GPMC Charles H. King, 32° ...... Master of Entrances 26 - High 12 Luncheon - Masonic Village at Sewickley PITTSBURGH CHAPTER OF ROSE CROIX 18° 30 - Fellowship Breakfast - GPMC Rodney E. Boyce, 33° ...... Most Wise Master Robert B. Malwitz, 32° ...... Senior Warden April 2016 James C. Mayes, 32° ...... Junior Warden 07 - VALLEY STATED MEETING - GPMC Joshua S. Freeman, 32° ...... Orator 08 - 10 - Shrine Circus Charles J. Anthony, 32° ...... Master of Ceremonies 26 - High 12 Luncheon - Masonic Village at Sewickley David B. Firda, 32° ...... Guard 30 - Fellowship Breakfast - GPMC PENNSYLVANIA CONSISTORY 32° May 2016 Donald W. Boehm, 33° ...... Commander-in-Chief David W. Morgans, 33° ...... 1st. Lt. Commander 24 - High 12 Luncheon - Masonic Village at Sewickley Jeffrey M. Wonderling, 33° ...... 2nd Lt. Commander 28 - Fellowship Breakfast - GPMC David L. Moore, 32° ...... Orator June 2016 Joshua L. Miller, 32° ...... Chancellor 02 - VALLEY STATED MEETING - GPMC Mitchell D. Goldstein, 32° ...... Master of Ceremonies Richard H. Kucera, 32° ...... Engineer & Seneschal 11 - Valley Golf - Butler’s Golf Course, 9:00 a.m. Eric S. Teasdale, 32° ...... Standard Bearer 25 - Grand Lodge Quarterly Communication - GPMC Matthew A. Boice, 32° ...... Guard 25 - Fellowship Breakfast - GPMC + + + Paul J. Roup, 33° ...... Treasurer 28 - High 12 Luncheon - Masonic Village at Sewickley Donald M. Murphy, 33° ...... Secretary July 2016 Vito A. Urso, 33° ...... Hospitaler 26 - High 12 Luncheon - Masonic Village at Sewickley Dennis R. Johnston, 33° ...... Tiler 30 - Fellowship Breakfast - GPMC Peter A. Leary, 32°, Joseph G. Whitaker, 32° . . . .Masonic Fund Society Charles M. Bombich, 32° ...... Representatives August 2016 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 23 - High 12 Luncheon - Masonic Village at Sewickley Donald W. Boehm, 33°, Chairman 27 - Fellowship Breakfast - GPMC Rodney E. Boyce, 33° ...... Larry D. Horath, 32° September 2016 Sam H. Jessee, 32° ...... Robert B. Malwitz, 32° 01 - VALLEY STATED MEETING - GPMC David W. Morgans, 33° ...... Donald M. Murphy, 33° Paul J. Roup, 33° ...... Robert B. Ruff, 32° 24 - Fellowship Breakfast - GPMC William J. Wilker, 32° ...... Jeffrey M. Wonderling, 33° 27 - High 12 Luncheon - Masonic Village at Sewickley Vito A. Urso, 33°,Trustee ...... Thomas K. Sturgeon, 33°, Active October 2016 TRUSTEES 25 - High 12 Luncheon - Masonic Village at Sewickley Vito A. Urso, 33°, Chairman 29 - Fellowship Breakfast - GPMC Jeff A. Biddle, 33° ...... Donald W. Boehm, 33° November 2016 Rodney E. Boyce, 33° ...... Keith J. Caito, 33° VALLEY Thomas M. Gasmire, 33° ...... Larry D. Horath, 32° 02 - STATED MEETING - GPMC Donald M. Murphy, 33° ...... George W. Polnar, 33° 12 - Scottish Rite Day (details later)

Richard A. Rodibaugh, 33° Paul J. Roup, 33° Robert B. Ruff, 32° 22 - High 12 Luncheon - Masonic Village at Sewickley TRUSTEES EMERITUS 26 - Fellowship Breakfast - GPMC Patrick G. Blackwwell, 33° ...... Donald H. Coester, 33° December 2016 Charles W. Doege, Jr., 33° ...... Robert E. Dunkelman, 33° William J. Ebertshauser, 33° ...... Edward H. Fowler, Jr., 33° 03 - Valley Christmas Party Stephen A. George, 33° ...... Robert R. Havers, Sr., 33° 10 - Children’s Christmas Party - GPMC John W. Hisiro, 33° ...... Dennis R. Johnston, 33° 17 - Hiram’s Riders Christmas Party Albert L. Kappeler, Jr., 33° Robert Mellon, 33° Donald E. Sauer, 33° 27 - High 12 Luncheon - Masonic Village at Sewickley Walter L. Sykes, 33° ...... Kurt R. Tesche, 33° Schedule updated monthly: www.valleyofpittsburgh.org SECRETARY EMERITUS TREASURER EMERITUS Elwood R. Schultise, 33° D. William Roberts, 33° Contributions to the ALLEGIANCE The bodies of the Scottish Rite, sitting in the Valley of Pittsburgh, State Children’s Dyslexia Center of Pennsylvania, acknowledge and yield allegiance to the Supreme Council, 33°, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry for the are Income Tax Northern Masonic Jurisdiction of the United States of America whose Deductible. Grand East is in Lexington, Massachusetts, and whose Officers are: Ill...John Wm. McNaughton, 33°, Sovereign Grand Commander, Make Yours Now! Ill...Thomas K. Sturgeon, 33°, Deputy for Pennsylvania. Other Active members for Pennsylvania are: Ill...Jeffrey W. Coy, 33°, Ill...George Nakonetschny, 33°, Ill...Robert J. Bateman, 33°.

January 2016 The Rite News Page 19. NONPROFIT ORG. Valley of Pittsburgh U.S. POSTAGE GOURGAS LODGE OF PERFECTION PAID Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center GREENSBURG, PA 3579 Masonic Way PERMIT NO. 1234 Pittsburgh, PA 15237-2700 Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, USA Instituted 20 January 1852 Office Hours: Mon. - Fri., 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Phone: 412-939-3579 Fax: 412-939-0560 Web: www.valleyofpittsburgh.org E-mail: [email protected]

To our Members and Friends

Happy New Year 2016

Donald W. Boehm, 33°, Commander-in-Chief Robert B. Ruff, 32°, Thrice Potent Master Larry D. Horath, 32°, Sovereign Prince Rodney E. Boyce, 33°, Most Wise Master Paul J. Roup, 33°, Treasurer Donald M. Murphy 33°, Secretary

Trustees

Jeff A. Biddle, 33° Keith J. Caito, 33° Thomas M. Gasmire, 33°

George W. Polnar, 33° Richard A. Rodibaugh, 33° Vito A. Urso 33°

164th Year of Scottish Rite Masonry in Pittsburgh