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Masons. Live better.TM

On The LevelVolume 8, Issue 1 Summer 2007

A Newsletter for Brothers & Friends ofThe Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation

Michigan Masonic Foundations MergeThe past year saw historic progress for the Masons. In the spring of 2006 the Trustees of the Michigan Masonic Home Charitable Foundation and the Masonic Foundation of Michigan, Inc. approved Board Resolutions in support of a merger of the two Foundations into one new Foundation, to be named the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation. The resolutions in support of the merger were enthusiastically supported by the Grand Lodge Board of Directors.

The resolutions to merge the two Masonic Foundations were approved by the Delegates to the 180th Annual Communication. Delegates also approved an expanded charitable mission for the new Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation, an increase in the number of Foundation trustees, and a change in the way they are selected.

In February 2007, Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox signed off on the merger of our two Michigan Masonic Foundations, which became effective on April 1st.

Caring and community are basic Masonic concepts. Through the new Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation, the Masons will be able to continue their support of our Michigan Masonic Home (Masonic Pathways) while also insuring Masons are strongly involved in supporting important community needs, including the safety and educational needs of Michigan’s children, who will be our future citizens, leaders and Masons.

… continued on page 2

Michigan MasonicFoundations Merge ................ Pg. 1Larry Wallach to lead MMCF ....................................... Pg. 2Lewis Cass Society MembersHave Fun at Party and Lewis Cass SocietyMembership List .................. Pg. 4-6Lewis Cass Society ReachesMilestone ................................. Pg. 7 Resident Memories .............. Pg. 8-9 MICHIP Question andAnswer Session .................... Pg. 10Wish List ................................Pg. 11IRA Gifts through The Pension Protection Act of 2006 ......... Pg. 12Bequest Questions and Answers ......................... Pg. 13 Other Major Gifts .................. Pg. 14 Reunion Highlights& Reservations ................ Pg. 15-16 Telly & Communicator Awards .........17-19Michigan Masonic Home (Masonic Pathways)

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… continued from page 1

Through its expanded mission, the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation will:

v Continue to support a portion of the annual operations of our Michigan Masonic Home (Masonic Pathways);

v Help Masonic Widows;

v Provide “Outside Relief” grants to enable Michigan Masons to receive nursing care in the privacy of their own homes;

v Provide up to $1,500 in matching grants for scholarships;

v Provide up to $1,500 in matching grants for selected Community Charities;

v Support the efforts of the Masonic Model Student Assistance Program, which offers workshops to K-12 teachers and counselors to help them identify and prevent student violence and drug abuse.

v Fund the operations of the Michigan Masonic Museum and Library that contains over 6,000 volumes and another 6,000 photographs and rare Masonic artifacts that are housed in the Grand Rapids Masonic Center.

v Support the operations of the Michigan Child Identification Program or the MI CHIP program. In less than two years, over 25,000 children have participated in this Program, which provides their parents with a CD ROM disc of identification items including: Toothprints ® - Dental Impressions, a DNA sample, Saliva for dog scent, a color photo, fingerprints and a brief recorded interview.

Larry Wallach to Lead MMCF Staff Team

On March 12, 2007 the Foundation welcomed Lawrence Wallach to his position as Executive Director. This marked the successful culmination of a lengthy search process that involved significant participation from the Board and selected other stakeholders. Brother Wallach has now been raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason in Livonia Lodge No. 586. He comes to the Foundation with substantial professional experience covering philanthropy in the public, non-profit and private sectors. He possesses complimentary educational credentials and other outstanding qualifications that will serve the Foundation very well. He is looking forward to meeting as many Michigan Masons as possible in the coming months and years ahead.

The Foundation continues to be blessed with the dedicated staff resources of Keith Bankwitz as Director of Philanthropy and Diana Bradley as Administrative Assistant.

Lawrence WallachExecutive Director

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Programs sponsored by the Michigan MasonicCharitable Foundation (MMCF) will …

Continue to support a portion of the annual operations of the Michigan Masonic Home (Masonic Pathways).

Help Masonic Widows.

Provide matching grants for selected Community Charities.

Provide matching grants

for scholarships.

Fund the operations of the Michigan Masonic Museum and Library that contains over 6,000 volumes and 6,000 photos plus rare Masonic artifacts.

Support the efforts of the Masonic Model Student

Assistant Program.

… and provide support for other innovative and worthy projects to be identified through an upcoming strategic planning process.

Fund the MICHIP Child Identification Program.

Outside Relief

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Lewis Cass Society Members Have Fun at Party

A record crowd of one hundred and forty-two people attended the April 7, 2007 Lewis Cass Society Black-Tie Donor Appreciation Dinner. This event was held from 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM at the University Club in Lansing, Michigan. From all accounts the reception, dinner, and the program were a rousing success.

Each new member of the Lewis Cass Society received a very nice neck ribbon and a special medallion. Each couple or a single member received a portable DVD player with headphones.

The program consisted of an informational DVD regarding the life of this year’s famous Mason, Walter Chrysler, a DVD narrated by Executive Director Larry Wallach regarding the Merger of the Michigan Masonic Foundations, and a Medallion Ceremony. As each member received his or her medallion, they received the opportunity to make short remarks. In their presentations, they explained how they felt about their membership in the Society. Presently, the Society has two hundred and forty-nine members.

The Lewis Cass Society is open to all Brothers, Sisters, and Friends of Masonry. Members of the Lewis Cass Society have agreed that they will make charitable bequests in their estate plans, to provide permanent endowment funds for the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation.

JOIN NOW!

A Brother or O.E.S. Sister can easily join The Lewis Cass Society today,

by calling 1-800-994-7400 ext. 3803 or you can complete the attached

application and mail it in the postage paid return envelope.

Grand Master Ira Slaven and his wife Gayle, immediate Past Grand Master Walt Wheeler and his wife Vickie, along with John Wallsteadt, Director of the Michigan Museum and Library, enjoy their time at the Lewis Cass Society Appreciation Dinner.

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Save the Date!The Eighth Annual Lewis Cass

Society Black – Tie Appreciation Dinner will be held at the University Club in Lansing, Michigan on April

12, 2008 at 2:00 pm.

Pictured from left to right:Charles & Joan Kramsvogel and Jim & Sharon Hart.

Pictured clockwise from top center: Don Pray, Nancy & Brent Helm, Carman & Jose Lopez, George & Beverly Sivertson, Robert & Lavon Halladay, and Angie & Don Carman.

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Lewis Cass Society Membership List as of June 1, 2007Nancy AbramsonTommy R. AmidonPatricia A. AmidonJonathan G. BaatzW. Keith BankwitzCharles Barr IIW. Don BaugherGeorgia A. BaugherBrian BeckettEvaline J. BeckettDavid BedwellAnnie BedwellPauline BedwellTimothy S. BeersJames BlauveltCindy BosleyJeffrey BosleyDavid O. BradleyBetty BradleyDennis Roy BramigkDeborah Lynn BramigkBernard BrewerAlvin O. BrothertonElwin R. BrownOzzie R. BryantDonald L. CarmanEvangeline CarmanThomas F. CarricoKenneth P. CarrollKenneth D. ChandlerVera B. ChandlerJohn A. ChaplinBetty J. CockerhamKeith ColbryPatricia ColbryRobert P. ConleyLuana CoryellGlenn CoryellAlvin G. CovellThomas H. CrooksPaul N. CrossJan S. CrossBryan D. CullensVirginia F. CullensErnest G. CummingsArshag M. DaiyanDonald H. Davis, Jr.William M. DietrichJean DietrichDavid DossetteSusan M. DossetteRobert T. DrebenstedtTheodore N. DuncanPerdema DuncanJudy L. EdwardsFrank F. EmondDeana M. FarleyCharles J. FarleyMary Ann Fischetti-BrewerJoel J. FloridaKaren Florida

David F. Florida, Sr.David FluckeDee FlyCharles E. GorhamGeorge GreenleafSeymour D. GreenstoneGeorge C. HaddenLavon HalladayRobert J. HalladayLinda Anne HamiltonRonald E. HamiltonNina M. HamlinThomas F. HamlinBarbara HarryVerna Jean HarschJames HartSharon HartRichard F. HaverElizabeth C. HeathBrent A. HelmNancy J. HelmRobert G. HelmicAnn K. HelmicJim HenleySharon HenleyRichard HerrmannJohn A. HimmelspachCarl S. HobdayPatricia HobdayDavid M. HubbardPeggy HubbardRaymond E. HughesMary Alice HughesMary Ellen HuntPeter W. HuntKathryn JacobsArthur R. JacobsKimberly Jeffrey-KuncaitisDion JonesDonald P. JonesRick JonesMichael J. JungelRosemary JungelFrederick E. Kaiser, Jr.Charles KramsvogelJoan L. KramsvogelRod KuncaitisJohn KustronDonna KustronCheryl LeeWilliam A. LelesziNancy L. LelesziRobert LightDenna LightCarmen J. LopezJose R. LopezStephan L. MacomberPaul S. MagyElie V. MantaTimothy MarshbanksPatricia MarshbanksWilliam E. McKimPaul M. McKinley

Rhea MeadeMicheal MeleskiAugust D. MeyerArthur W. MidgleyFrederick D. MillerBillie MillhouseJoe MiskovichGlenn L. MohneyLinda L. MohneyThomas E. MoodyKaren MoodyDennis L. MooreDebra L. MooreRoger D. MooreDeanna L. MooreRichard E. MurphyMichael E. MutschlerFaye MyersRoger L. MyersPatricia O’ConnellJ. Tim O’NeilDaniel PelakLinda PelakM. Jayne PetersJames L. PetersMaurice PetersenRoger W. PorticeFrank T. PrariaSandy C. PrariaDon PrayEdward R. PrudenSeymour RabotnickDuncan Mack RabournThomas RossmanPatricia RossmanDavid L. RoweAnna Mae RowePatricia F. RuhlandRichard P. RuhlandWalter RussellRobert SanbornDonna J. SanbornKenneth R. SayersJames A. SchadJoyce M. SchadVirginia SchaefferRobert A. SchaefferJason A. SchneiderWilliam R. SchultzJames P. SchultzAlisa SchweiflerEdward A. SchweiflerEugene H. SeldenWalter Mark ShawRichard P. SherbarthC. Dale SigmonGeorge SivertsonBeverly SivertsonIra S. SlavenGayle L. SlavenLary R. SmithClifford SmithRobert G. Spaly

Marcia SpalyThomas SparkmanSandy SparkmanDavid L. SpiveyChris StandhardtLisa StandhardtRichard A. SteeleEddie R. SteffneTodd SteffneRobert W. StevensCecil StevensBetty StevensStephen StriggowRobert G. SurfaceSharon G. TarrPaul M. Tarr, Jr.David M. TaylorFonda Mae ThomasPaul R. ThomasDuane V. ToddSandra J. ToddJane ToddWayne E. TurtonMary TurtonJacob ValkenierWyva A. VanKirkDonald J. VanKirkGene VanPeltJanice VanPeltKathleen J. VivianJohn A. VivianoAnne VivianoFordney P. VolkmerHarry A. WalbridgeMarjorie T. WalbridgeElla WalkerFrancis E. WalkerCraig WalkerJohn A. WallsteadtWilliam C. WaltsgottDoris WaltsgottEdwin C. WarnerMark WatermanRoy WattsW. Tom WellsAlma J. WellsJudy A. WestWalter F. WheelerVickie WheelerDonald J. WilliamsonScott WilsonShannon WilsonDaniel G. WilsonCatherine M. WilsonChristine WozniakRobert D. YeomansJoan YeomansGraydon M. Young, Jr.James A. ZavislakCharles ZilchCarolyn ZilchRobert Alan Zilch

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Lewis Cass Society Reaches Milestone

An August 2007 gift of $50,000 from the Estate of Clover Downs pushed total gifts to the Lewis Cass Society over $2 million!

Since its inception in 2000, twelve generous Brothers and Sisters have made gifts totaling $2,006,304.48.

Moreover, last winter a third of all 249 Lewis Cass Society Members reported that they had made plans to leave the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation between $4.7 to $7.9 million in their wills or their estate plans.

In 1999, Clover Downs received her Lewis Cass Society Membership certificate

from past MMCF Trustee, Kenneth C. Isherwood.

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Resident Life at the HomeResident’s Memories

Dale Kiser remembers his visit to Dr. Morgan Smead, Most Worshipful Grand Master in 1950.

Loyal Michigan Masons have come to call the Michigan Masonic Home their home.For over a century, our Brothers and Sisters have known that they can count on the Michigan Masonic Home to be there for them. This is an interview with one of them.

Recently, Dale Kiser reminisced about his life experiences.

Dale Kiser was born in East Jordan, and went to school with Bill Malpass, who became the CEO of the East Jordan Iron Works. This company makes the distinctive manhole covers that you see everywhere.

Dale went to East Jordan High School, and after graduation, went to Detroit and took two years of shop courses, and learned about woodworking.

“Wood working became my hobby after retiring,” Dale said.

Dale worked in the cutting tool industry. “I worked for the Gairing Tool Company and for Cole Industries. We used tungson carbide to make our cutting tools.”

“I married Charlotte in 1937, and we had three children two sons and one daughter. Unfortunately, in 1987 my wife, one of my sons, and my daughter all passed away.”

“I lived in Washington, which is located between Utica and Romeo. The kids went to school in Romeo and loved to go to the Annual Peach Festival.”

Dale began his journey in Masonry years ago when he went to Rochester to renew his driver’s license. I went up to the driver’s license clerk and asked about becoming a Mason. The clerk surprised me by giving me a petition. Then he suggested that I go visit Dr. Morgan Smead.”

Dale Kiser

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Resident Life at the Home Life At The Home continued..

“I went up to this big house, and knocked on the door. Dr. Smead’s wife came to the door. I asked if I could see Dr. Smead. She said, “Why do you want to see him?” I said, “Because I want to become a Mason.” Upon hearing this, Dr. Smead, said, “Come on in. I will sign your petition.”

Dr. Morgan Smead just happened to be our One Hundredth Most Worshipful Grand Master. (1950-1951)

Dale joined Rochester Lodge No. 5 (now, known as Stoney Creek No. 5) and then moved to Northport, where he was the Secretary for Northport No. 265 for seven years.

Dale also knew George Anderson up in Northport. George is the son of another Most Worshipful Grand Master, Louis Anderson. (1932-1933) Dale also knew Don Heming real well. Don was another Most Worshipful Grand Master. (1987-1988) “Don came to my daughter’s funeral in Sutton’s Bay.”

“I knew Harry Hicks, who was a Die Maker for GM. He just happened to be the Right Worshipful Grand Lecturer.”

Dale was elected, “Mason of the Year,” by Northport No. 265 in 1986.

“My late wife used help prepare a dinner once a month to raise money for the lodge. She would make this great cabbage salad that everyone would rave about.”

Dale’s son, also named Dale, is a dentist and a pharmacist. “He became a pharmacist first, and worked his way through the University of Michigan Dental School. Because he is left handed, the University had to buy a left-handed dental chair for him. He is now retired.”

Dale moved into the Michigan Masonic Home in 1997. He likes to visit with other Residents, and likes to take the bus to go places to eat.

Our Brothers and OES Sisters have continued to support the Michigan Masonic Home with generous donations. There are many stories like this that focus on devotion, care, and gratitude. Your gifts have helped us to continually upgrade the Home and provide the excellent standard of care that our residents continue to enjoy.

Please consider the advantages of a Retirement Community. Stories like this one focus on the devotion, care, and gratitude that our residents have for the Michigan Masonic Home.

The Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation is a 501 ( c ) (3) non-profit Corporation. Michigan Charitable Solicitation License No. MICS 13630

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MICHIP ProgramQuestions & Answers

What is MICHIP?The Michigan Child Identification

Program (MICHIP) is a program offered through the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation that provides parents and guardians the means to quickly provide vital information to law enforcement officers in the event their child is abducted or is missing. (We also provide this program for adults who wish to be ID’d.) This program is provided completely free of charge as a service to all families in the State of Michigan.The number of missing children in the United States is a source of personal anguish for parents and families and an enormous challenge for law enforcement agencies. According to the FBI’s National Crime Information Center, nearly 800,000 children were reported missing at the beginning of this decade, and the numbers have not decreased since then. In Wayne County alone, there were approximately 3,000 children reported missing in 2002 and there are currently more than 1,200 open missing juvenile cases.

What is Given to Parents?Masonic volunteers, at sites throughout the state, create individual child identification kits that are given to parents to take home for safekeeping. Each child passes through several stations, taking various forms of information at each station. An identifying item is created at each station and placed in the child’s kit. Masons use the latest computer technology to record a child’s unique characteristics, including:• Toothprints® or Dental Impressions. A softened

thermoplastic wafer is placed in the child’s mouth and the child bites down on it. This records the size and shape of teeth, the position of the teeth in the jaw, and the relationships of the jaws to each other. The impression is a permanent record like fingerprints; it is unique to every individual. Even identical twins have different Toothprints®;

• A child’s DNA information, taken from cheek cells in saliva. Saliva provides a pure, exclusive trace scent which tracking dogs can use.

• A color photo, which can be circulated by police to media throughout the state within two hours of an abduction;

• A Laser Scan of the child’s fingerprints;• A brief video interview which a child’s appearance,

speech and mannerisms; and

• A complete profile of information as would be documented on the Amber Alert report by responding police department personnel.

The process takes about ten minutes for each child. All materials gathered in the MICHIP Program are given to the parents at the time of the I.D. event. MICHIP keeps only the permission slip a parent signs. No identification information is kept, copied, or given to any governmental authority, unless the parent or guardian chooses to do so in an emergency.

Where are MICHIP Programs Held?MICHIP Programs are put on at schools, shopping malls, fairs, festivals and events throughout the state.

Who is Eligible to Participate in the MICHIP Program?Any child or adult who resides in Michigan is eligible.

What Do Others Say About this Program?The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children recognizes the CHIP Program as one of the most comprehensive child recovery and identification programs in the nation.

Are There Any Costs to Parents?No. The MICHIP Program is offered to parents free of charge. The program costs are paid for the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation.

How Many Children Have Gone Through the Program?More than 25,000 Michigan Children have participated in the MICHIP Program since 2005. The Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation would like to make the MICHIP Program available to far more parents and children. In fact, the number of children that could go through the MICHIP Program is limited only by our current resources. We would like to provide every family in Michigan with a MICHIP kit.

Where Can I Find More Information?You can find more information about the MICHIP Program and a list of upcoming MICHIP sites, on the web at: http://www.michip.org/

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All Donations made to the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation are Tax Deductible!The Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation is a 501 (c) (3 ) non-profit corporation.

Michigan Charitable Solicitation License No. MICS 13630

WAYS TO GIVEBriefly, here are a few ways that you can support the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation and obtain important personal recognition and tax benefits. You can accomplish this by making a:

• Tax-deductible Cash Gift

• Memorial Gift

• Charitable Gift Annuity

Thank you again, Brothers and Sisters of all the Orders for your past gifts and continuing interest in our foundation.

• Gift of Securities

• Charitable Remainder Unitrust

• Charitable Lead Trust

Michigan Masonic Charitable FoundationWish List

Frequently, Lodges, Brothers, wives, and OES Sisters will call the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation and ask, “Is there some project or program I can fund?”

The answer is YES! Many people get excited about cash funding of a specific program…one that can capture their imagination and one that residents can truly enjoy.

Please find several of these projects listed below. Our Director of Philanthropy, Keith Bankwitz, will be glad to discuss these projects with you privately.

Stop in and visit with him at the Michigan Masonic Home, or you can call him at the Home at 1-800-994-7400, ext. 3802. You are also welcome to call him at his Dearborn office at 1-800-995-0350. Or you can e-mail Keith Bankwitz at: mmhcf@masonichome.com

• Courtyard Garden Project at the Michigan Masonic Home (Masonic Pathways)• Centennial Walk repaving project at Masonic Pathways• Funding for the Masonic Museum and Library• Funding for the Community Charities Program• Funding for the Student Scholarship Program• Funding for the Student Assistance Program• Funding for the MICHIP Program• Funding for the Masonic Widows Program• Funding for the Outside Relief Program

• Bequest In Your Will

• Gift of Appreciated Property

• Annual Deputy Grand Master’s Appeal Gift

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On Aug. 17, 2006, President Bush signed into law new tax incentives for charitable gifts from donors who are 70½ or older. The Pension Protection Act of 2006 encourages financial support of charitable organizations across the United States.

Under the law, you can make a lifetime gift using funds from your individual retirement account (IRA) without undesirable tax effects. Previously you would have had to report any amount taken from your IRA as taxable income. You could then take a charitable deduction for the gift, but only up to 50 percent of your adjusted gross income. In effect, this caused some donors to pay more in income taxes than they would have if they hadn’t made a gift at all.

Fortunately, now these IRA gifts can be accomplished simply and without tax complications. Plus, you can make the gift now—while you are living and able to witness the benefits of your generosity.

You may contribute funds this way if:• You are age 70½ or older• The gift is $100,000 or less• You make the gift on or before Dec. 31,

2007• You transfer funds directly from an IRA or

Rollover IRA• You transfer the gift outright to one or

more public charities, but not supporting organizations or donor advised funds

New Tax-Saving Opportunity for DonorsAged 70½ or Older

How the New Law WorksPat, aged 80, has $450,000 in an IRA and has pledged to give the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation (MMCF) $75,000 this year. If Pat transfers $75,000 to MMCF from the IRA, she will avoid paying income tax on that amount. She cannot, however, claim a charitable deduction—it is a pure wash. Pat has found an easy way to benefit us without tax complications. If Pat’s spouse has an IRA and is 70½ or older, he can also give up to $100,000 tax-free to a charitable organization.

How To Make A GiftContact your IRA custodian to transfer your desired gift amount to a charitable

organization.

For More InformationIt is wise to consult tax professionals if you are contemplating a gift under the new law. Please feel free to call our Director of Philanthropy, Keith Bankwitz at 1-800-995-0350 or email him at mmhcf@masonichome.com with any questions.

© The Stelter CompanyThe information in this publication is not intended as legal advice. For legal advice, please consult an at-torney. Figures cited in examples are based on current rates at the time of printing and are subject to change. References to estate and income tax include federal taxes only; individual state taxes may further impact results.

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BEQUESTQuestions and Answers

QUESTION:What happens to my bequest to the Masonic Foundation of Michigan, Inc.? Do I have to update my will or trust?

ANSWER:Any bequest to the former Michigan Masonic Home Charitable Foundation should not be affected by the merger, because that is the surviving entity. The legal name has changed, but the legal entity itself has not changed. Donors can revise their wills or trusts to reflect the new name, Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation, but it would not be necessary.

Bequests to the Masonic Foundation of Michigan may be negated by the merger, because that Foundation technically has ceased to exist. The Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation is the legal successor to the Masonic Foundation of Michigan, but the will or trust generally would have to provide that the bequest to the Masonic Foundation of Michigan will go to that Foundation’s successor if that Foundation does not exist at the time the bequest is to be paid. We recommend that any wills or trusts making bequests to the Masonic

Foundation of Michigan be changed to the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation.

QUESTION:Suppose I want to restrict my legacy to a particular program. Can I do this?

ANSWER:Of course, you can. It is your privilege and your right to do so.Thus, you can designate your legacy to the Michigan Masonic Home at Alma for endowment purposes. You can designate any program of the newly merged Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation to receive your legacy.

QUESTION:Is it better to give a specific sum or a percentage of my estate in my will or trust?

ANSWER:Many people prefer to make a percentage of the will or trust available to a charity as a donation, because the percentage will grow over time allowing them to make a larger gift.

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Other Major GiftsIn 2007, the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation (MMCF) received several major gifts.

• In January, MMCF received $114,787.03 from the Dwight Stevens Estate. Another $200,000 gift was received later in the month from the John Robison Trust. Finally, another $73,700 donation was received from the Elma Filson Trust. All these gifts were placed in the Endowment Fund.

• In March, MMCF received $25,095.95 from the Eulah Benson Estate. Another $30,555 was received from the Edward Prosser Trust. This contribution was placed in the Endowment Fund.

• In April, MMCF received $135,000 from the Mary Brooks Estate. This contribution was placed in the Endowment Fund.

• In June, MMCF received $51,000 from the Arthur & Eleanor Distler Charitable Remainder Unitrust, $37,000 from the Charles G. Signs Estate, $30,895.62 from the Fred B. Churchill Estate, and $25,000 from the family of Dale C. Edwards. All these gifts were placed in the Endowment Fund.

The Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation is a 501 (c) (3 ) non-profit corporation.Michigan Charitable Solicitation License No. MICS 13630

Generous Michigan Mason Remembers MMCFIn the spring of 2007, Brother James S. Ashdowne’s attorney advised MMCF that he had left all of his estate to MMCF. A partial distribution of $50,000 was paid in July 2007. Presently, the Estate located in Key West, Florida is in the process of being liquidated. It is not exactly known how much will be involved, but it could be several hundred thousand dollars.

Brother Ashdowne, known as “Sam,” was originally from Flint, and then moved to Novi. He was a member of Ashlar Lodge No. 91, which meets in the Detroit Masonic Temple. He was Raised as a Master Mason on September 8, 1949.

According to his Executor, “Sam was something of a self-made man. He tested optical instruments for colleges and for universities. He was a photographer and a horseman. At one time, he worked as a designer of motorcycle saddlebags, and motorcycle leather jackets for the Bucco Company. He was eccentric, and pursued his interest in cooking. He liked being able to be a great chef. He was a veteran of World War II. He and his late wife, Helen had no children. He retired to Key West, Florida decades ago.”

Brother James S. Ashdowne

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Reunion Highlights & 2008 Reservations

The Annual Reunions of Michigan Masons living in Florida and in Arizona were well attended and provided attendees an afternoon of fellowship and a recognition ceremony for many well-deserved Masonic Service Awards.

On January 27, 2007 one hundred and seventy five (175) Brothers, wives and guests attended the Sarasota, Florida Reunion at the Sahib Shrine Temple.

The following deserving Brother received a 60-year service award pin from Grand Lodge Officers:Donald Krueger of New Port Richey, FL

These deserving Brothers received 50-year service award pins from Grand Lodge Officers:

James Satterthwaite of Leesburg, FL Delbert Kingsbury of Arcadia, FLRobert Freeman of Muskegon, MI John Longo, of Winter Haven, FLGeorge Langdon of St. Joseph, MI David Row of Bradenton, FLLeo Hall of North Port, FL Jim Schultz of Sun City Center, FLWillard Irwin of Arcadia, FL Franklin Stoudt of Sarasota, FL

On February 24, 2007 one hundred and five (105) Brothers, wives and guests attended the Sun City West, Arizona Reunion at the Briarwood Country Club.

The following deserving Brother received a 60-year service award pin from Grand Lodge Officers:James Lay of Sun City West, AZ

The following deserving Brother received a 50-year service award pin from Grand Lodge Officers:William Tomkinson of Mesa, AZ

Pictured from left to right are Grand Lodge Officers Tom Hamlin, Bob Stevens, Ira Slaven, MWGM and Walt Wheeler, immediate Past Grand Master, presenting brother Donald Krueger of New Port Richey his 50-year service award pin in a special presentation.

Pictured from left to right are Ira Slaven, MWGM, James and Mary Lay, and Walter Wheeler, immediate Past Grand Master, as James receives his 60-year service award pin at the Arizona reunion.

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ANNUAL MASONIC REUNIONSMost Worshipful Grand Master Ira S. Slaven and his lady Gayle

invite all Michigan Masons and their guests to join them at the Annual Reunions held in Florida and Arizona. The reunions offer a great opportunity to visit with old friends and, perhaps, meet

a few new ones. Our Grand Master will provide you with an update about Grand Lodge. Also, please meet our new Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation

Executive Director, Larry Wallach. At both reunions, social hour is at 12:00 noon

Luncheon served at 1:00 p.m. Short program to follow. Casual dress.If you have any questions, or to make reservations (Before December 21, 2007),

please call Keith Bankwitz, Director of Philanthropy, or Diana Bradley, Philanthropy Administrative Assistant, at 1-800-994-7400 extension 3803.

Or you can secure your reservation by filling out the form below.

Saturday, January 26, 2008 Saturday, February 29, 2008Sahib Temple Gainey Ranch Golf Club600 North Beneva Road 7600 Gainey Club Drive Sarasota, Florida 34232 Scottsdale, Arizona 85258

Clip this Coupon and Mail in the Enclosed Postage Paid Envelope!!!

Check which reunion you will attend:______ Sarasota, January 26, 2008 ______ Scottsdale, February 29, 2008

Scottsdale Menu-Light hors d’oeuvres, served with complimentary coffee and sodas during social hour. No host bar. Lunch includes a buffet featuring, Grilled Barbecue Chicken, Beef Brisket, and dessert.Sarasota Menu-Light hors d’oeuvres, served with complimentary coffee and sodas during social hour. No host bar. Lunch includes a buffet featuring Prime Rib and Baked Fish and dessert.

Enclosed is my check for $____________ (both reunion prices are $12/individual)Made payable to: Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation, 1200 Wright Avenue, Alma, MI 48801.

Name ______________________________________________________________________

Address ____________________________________________________________________

City ____________________________________ State_________Zip___________________

Telephone (_____) ________________________ Lodge______________________________

I would like my address, and telephone number to appear in a Reunion Roster to be published and distributed at the Reunion._______ Yes _______ No

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Grand Masters of Michigan Three Disc DVD Series Wins 11 Telly and 6 Communicator Video Excellence Awards

The Most Worshipful Grand Masters of Michigan Three Disc DVD Series received an unprecedented 11 Telly Awards, during its 28th Annual Competition. The Grand Masters DVD Series won Telly Awards for the following:

• Silver (First Place) for Grand Lodge Time Travel in the Non-Broadcast – Low Budget (under $700 per minute category).

• Bronze (Second Place) for Special Forward Message in the Non-Broadcast Productions- Charitable/Not-for-profit category).

• Bronze for Grand Lodge Time Travel in the Non-Broadcast Productions-Multimedia category.

• Bronze for Lewis Cass in the Internet/Online Programs, Segments, or Promotional Pieces category.

• Bronze for Lou B. Winsor in the Internet/Online Programs, Segments, or Promotional Pieces-History/Biography category.

• Bronze for John Philip Sousa in the Internet/Online Programs, Segments, or Promotional Pieces-History/Biography category.

• Bronze for Frank Lodge in the Non-Broadcast Productions-History/Biography category.

• Bronze for the Special Forward Message in the Internet/Online Programs, Segments, or Promotional Pieces-Charitable/Not-for-profit category.

• Bronze for Grand Lodge Time Travel in the Non-Broadcast Productions-Multimedia category.

• Bronze for Grand Lodge Time Travel in the Internet/Online Programs, Segments, or Promotional Pieces-Low Budget category.

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Founded in 1979, the Telly Awards is the premier award honoring outstanding local, regional, and cable TV commercials and programs, as well as the finest video and film productions. Winners represent the best work of the most respected advertising agencies, production companies, television stations, cable operators, and corporate video departments in the world.

A prestigious judging panel of 27 accomplished industry professionals, each a past Winner of a Silver Telly, the top honor, upholds the historical standard of excellence that Telly represents. Judges evaluate entries to recognize distinction in creative work-entries do not compete against each other – rather entries are judged against a high standard of merit. Less than 10% of entries are chosen as Winners of a Silver Telly.

A record 14,362 entries from all 50 states and around the world entered the 2006 competition.

To find out more about the Telly Awards, please visit their website at www.tellyawards.com

The Grand Masters DVD series also won honors in The 13th Annual Communicator Awards Competition. Selected segments in the Grand Masters DVD Series were submitted in 6 prominent categories, and 3 won Awards of Excellence and 3 won Awards of Distinction.

Segments winning Awards of Excellence were: Special Forward Message in the Non-Profit Category; Grand Lodge Time Travel in the Low Budget under $1,500 a Running Minute Category; and Grand Lodge Time Travel in the Meeting Opening/Close Category.

Keith Bankwitz, PM acted as the Producerand the Director of this DVD series.

… continued on page 19

TELLY & COMMUNICATOR AWARDS … con’t.

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Segments that won Awards of Distinction were Lewis Cass in the History Category; John Philip Sousa in the Documentary Category; and Special Forward Message in the Low Budget under $1,500 a Running Minute Category.

The 13th Communicator Awards is a truly an international competition and 1,698 organizations submitted entries in 2006. The Grand Lodge of Michigan was one of 146 groups to receive the coveted Award of Excellence. Please see the Communicator Awards website – http://www.communicator-awards.com/video/

The 13th Communicator Awards is the leading international program that recognizes creative excellence in the communication field. Founded by communication professionals over a decade ago, The Communicator Awards holds annual competitions for AUDIO in October, VIDEO in November, and PRINT MEDIA in February. Entries and winners have come from all 50 states and numerous foreign countries.

The Communicator Awards provides winners and their clients the recognition they deserve and gives communications and creative professionals proof and validation that their work is outstanding and highly regarded by their peers. The Communicator Awards provides an equal chance of winning to all entrants regardless of company or agency size and project budget – each entry is judged on its own merit. Since there are no lengthy essays to accompany the entry, all work is judged solely on its quality, creativity and resourcefulness.

Entries are judged against a high standard of excellence based on the Communicator Awards’ 13-year history of judging work, rather than against each other. A category may have multiple winners, or no winner at all. The Award of Excellence is given to those entries whose ability to communicate puts them among the best in the field. The Award of Distinction is presented for projects that exceed industry standards in quality and excellence.

… continued from pg. 18

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