The North Carolina Mason

November/December 2017 The North Carolina Mason Page 11 If your lodge has a newsletter for its members, make sure The North Carolina Mason is on your mailing list. Lodge newsletters are a major source of news from Masons around the state. If you don't have one, think about starting one. Newsletters are a good way to keep your members active, happy, and informed. TravelinG the tar heel state ▲ MORGANTON – National Sojourners Old Fort #553 honored veterans and initiated six new members into the chapter, including two WWII veterans. George Greene of Catawba Valley #217 retired from the USMC after 30 years of service told a story of his ship USS Wasp. While participating in the Marine's amphibious landing on Guadalcanal, the USS Wasp was sunk by Japanese torpedoes. He was left afloat in the ocean for several hours before being rescued by a destroyer. Elden Adameit of Blue Ridge #435, told of being in the first wave onto Normandy beach. Both praised Masonry and were happy to become a part of the Sojourners. Also, being initiated were Glenn Tompkins Jr., Bill McEntire, Fred Molina, and Gene Canter. President and Past Master Bill Poteat presided over the initiation. ▲ JACKSONVILLE – Masons from Onslow County representing the Grand Lodge of North Carolina A.F. & A. M. and the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of North Carolina F. & A.M. joined together under the banner of Masons United and marched in the Annual Jacksonville Veteran's Day Parade. This marked the third consecutive year for the joint march. SHALLOTTE – Shallotte #727 held its first charity "Cruis- ing For Kids" event in October. Raffles, door prizes, and T-shirt sales were sold to raise money for the Masonic Home for Chil- dren at Oxford. A BBQ lunch was served after the ride. Past Grand Master and MHCO board Chairman Dewey Preslar spoke about the home and its success- es. The event raised more than $35,000 for MHCO.

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