The North Carolina Mason

Carolina Panthers Game On September 25, 2022, MHCO staff and kids were treated to a day at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina to watch the Panthers play the Saints. At 6:30 that morning, everyone met at the Main Building to board the chartered buses that drove us that day. Some of the children mentioned that they had never ridden a charter bus before, so it was a new experience for them. The charter buses' first stop was the Metrolina Shrine club in Charlotte to tailgate and have lunch. The lunch menu consisted of homemade macaroni and cheese, wings, chicken nuggets, and cookies! The children were able to play corn hole and play some arcade-style games. They enjoyed a nice lunch and were each given a gift card to spend at the football game. The charter buses dropped the group off at the game and the kids were able to get snacks, drinks, and their Panthers gear before the game. The stadium section was filled with our MHCO kids, and it was like seeing a sea of black and blue with Panthers gear. Some of the house parents got a well-deserved nap in while support staff helped get the residents to and from to their seats. When the game ended and the Panthers got us that win, we headed back to the Metrolina Shrine Club. Dinner was provided with all the fixings. A very special thanks to all the lodges that helped make this event happen. Our sincere thanks go to Matthews Lodge No. 461, Newell Lodge No. 739, Knights of Solomon Lodge No. 764, Amran Shriners AAONMS, Phalanx Lodge No. 31, West Gate No. 738, Allen Graham No. 695, and the Metrolina Shrine Club. Without these lodges, the event couldn't have been possible. The children had an awesome time and will carry that experience with them for many years to come. Annual Communication MHCO was honored to have two Alumni and one ILP resident speak on behalf of their appreciation to all Masons for what you have provided for them. Yancey Otero, Thomas Boyd, and Jaheim Hartsfield all presented on Friday. Their messages shared how much the Home has helped them through difficult times. Yancey and Thomas are employed by MHCO as Financial Development Assistant and Print Shop Manager, respectively. Jaheim is working with WB Steve Owen learning to be an electrician. Their success, positive approach, and kind demeanors come from all you have provided for them. Thank you for everything you do for all our children to keep them safe, help overcome challenging situations, and become great success stories – just like Yancey, Thomas, and Jaheim! W I N T E R 2 0 2 2 | 23

• Cover