Festival Fun at The Indiana Masonic Home

2010-09-17T12:56:00.000-07:00

The 63rd annual Masonic Home Festival is now history. The Grand Architect of the Universe blessed us with a glorious day with clear skies and moderate temperatures. The day began with The Franklin Chapter of De Molay making breakfast for the “early birds”. The men of the Rose Croix assisted Chaplain Charles Stanley with the morning worship service in Ransford Chapel at 9:00A.M., while the Knights Templar assisted with services in Kresge Chapel at 9:45.   Things got really stirred up when the Blackhawk Helicopter landed on Red Skelton Circle around 9:30. Grand Chaplain Weister later said “The pilot must have been a Methodist as, when the helicopter landed, he sprinkled all those east of the fountain”.   The booths in the craft tent and the food text opened and were soon bustling with activity.
At 11:00 the ceremonies began with a skydiver dropping onto the campus delivering the colors of our country. The Indiana Masonic Home’s new Executive Director, Brian Lane, welcomed everyone and introduced the Master of Ceremonies, Past Grand Master and Past Grand Secretary Max L. Carpenter. Most Worshipful Brother Carpenter invited the Grand Commandry, Knights Templar to present the colors. Brother Max then led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of our national anthem.   George P. Weister, Grand Chaplain, gave the invocation.
MWB Carpenter introduced IMH Board of Directors Chairman James L. Chesney who in turn introduced the members of the Board of Directors who were present. PGM Max guided the introduction of officers of the various appendant bodies of Masonry, and other dignitaries.   After her introduction, Worthy Grand Matron Kathy Livings, welcomed everyone on behalf of the Grand Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star. WGM Livings took the opportunity to describe the Worthy Grand Matron’s project for 2010-1011, which is beautifying the small shelter house and playground area on the site of the old “Boy’s Playground”.
PGM Max Carpenter presented Grand Master Kenneth E. Willis, Jr. who gave a warm welcome to all on behalf of The Grand Lodge of Indiana. Most Worshipful Brother Willis introduced the Grand Lodge Officers and then led the dedication ceremony of a “time capsule” which will be placed in the cornerstone of the new assisted living building. This ceremony called upon each of the Grand Lodge officers to apply the instrument of their office to the capsule as it was being prepared. This reverent ceremony was a fitting “next step” in the exciting development of this needed building.
Immediately following the time capsule ceremony, the focus shifted from the main stage to the clock tower area as the “Race for Cover” golf cart race between the 2009-2010 Worthy Grand Matron and Worthy Gran Patron was about to begin.   Pat Endsley, PWGM & PGP Greg Onken made two laps from the clock tower to the “Arches” and back. The race was won by PWGM Pat Endsley. Following the race a dedication ceremony was held which included refreshments, for PWGM’s project, the new covered stairway and golf cart parking area in the rear of the main building.
Back at the main stage, MWB Max introduced the day’s entertainment, “The Wright Brothers Band”. The Wrights provide an afternoon of great music enjoyed by all. Two of the Wright brothers have performed for the residents of IMH before and are very popular entertainers.
Activities were in high gear by this time. Children were enjoying the “bouncers” and “inflateables” including a 50 foot long inflated obstacle course. The fabulous smell of festival food filled the air. Fish frying, popcorn popping, prime ribs simmering, and even barbecued ribs fresh from the smoker. Visitors and guests enjoyed their food while listening to the great entertainment. The Gandy Dancers model train club gave tours to 49 guests, showing off the train layout in Bretzlaff Hall. At 1:30 inside the Main Lobby the Murat Chanters provided entertainment. Wonderful harmony filled the lounge and residents and guests had a great time.
Toward the end of the day, the Rainbow Girls retired the flag with a wonderful ceremony. Job’s Daughters then presented the “Living Cross” as part of the closing ceremony. Finally, it was time for the grand Parade around Red Skelton Circle. Master of Ceremonies MWB Max Carpenter welcomed each of the parade units as they started around the circle. It was a grand parade with floats and units from many fraternal groups. The Murat Shrine provided flying fezzes, clowns on mini-bikes and much more.   At the end of the day smiles were everywhere and the spirit of brotherly love prevailed. Everyone is looking forward to next year’s festival to be held on September 11, 2011.