Masonic Village’s 3 MW solar power system produces 3.4 million kWh per year and approximately 15% of the campus’ electricity. It generates a rate of return of between 14 and 20% and results in cost savings of $250,000 annually.
Astronomy has been a long-standing interest for resident Donald Altrichter, and he is always looking for new opportunities to expand his knowledge. He now has the chance to explore the wonders of the universe through the Masonic Village Astronomy Club.
Food at retirement communities used to be institutionalized and not very appetizing, because taste was not the top priority; nutritional value was. However, the baby boomer generation has reprioritized the flavors in food and made socialization the focus of dining.
When entering Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, you will notice the historic stone buildings, quaint cottages and lush green gardens..and also blue, black, and red security vehicles driven by security officers keeping watch on these beautifully kept grounds. Valerie Gray, a 10-year veteran with Masonic Villages, assists her fellow officers in keeping the residents and visitors safe and secure.
Esther Slemenda can keep a secret. After all, she did it for a living. Although the details of her work are classified, she is still able to share other stories from her 105 years.
Frank Stoltzfus, agricultural production supervisor, took a break from managing Masonic Village's herd of 500 to 600-head of beef cattle for a two-month missionary trip to Zambia, Africa. His dedication to animals and helping others is a lifelong mission.
Nelson Kilmer, maintenance manager at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, grew up around cows - not beef cattle, but the Holsteins on his family's dairy farm. Although he studied theology and psychology (which he uses in his current job) as a student at Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, he planned to be a dairy farmer, too.
This hospice volunteer is writing patients’ legacies as mementos for their families.
The first Autumn Day was held on Oct. 12, 1985. As Masonic Villages has grown in size, so has Autumn Day, but the spirit of the event remains the same. It’s a great opportunity for residents to showcase their home and visit with family, and for PA Masons, Eastern Star and members of other branches of the fraternity to reunite.
Masonic Village Hospice staff have a special place in Bill’s heart, as they have guided him through the loss of his wife and throughout his own illness. As he looks down at his tattoo, he is reminded of his love of adventure and for the people who have cared for and about him.