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Awards & Surprises at Youth Appreciation Day
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At the 82nd annual Youth Appreciation Day at Masonic Village on May 27, residents of the Masonic Children's Home received a surprise gift: a trip to Disney World June 13-17, made possible by generous donations from Mrs. Mary Dearden, of Elizabethtown, Pa., Perseverance Lodge No. 21 in Harrisburg and income from the estate of Jack Harding.
After talking about Walt Disney's various achievements, Grand Master William Slater II informed the 39 Children's Home residents and other visitors about the upcoming vacation. "We believe the best way to study the character and accomplishments of Walt Disney would be to visit Disney World this summer," Grand Master Slater said. The children unanimously agreed.
Prior to the Disney World surprise, Gilson "Buz" Cash, director, Children's Services, presented each of the youth with medallions for their participation in various academic and extracurricular activities and plaques and certificates of achievement.
Bro. Cash presented Richie Miller with the first-ever Rev. A. Preston Van Deursen award. Pastor Van Deursen, director of Pastoral Care, is a graduate of the Masonic Children's Home and recently was honored for 25 years in ministry.
Cash honored the four graduating seniors, Eileen Arroyo-Diaz, Mike Cross, Nate Garman and Josh Klaus, with special words of encouragement and graduation certificates.
Pastor Van Deursen then presented each graduate with a Bible.
During his presentation, Grand Master Slater encouraged all the children to be an inspiration to others. "Your true character is revealed by the choices you make and the promises you keep," he said. "Hold strongly to your principles and refuse to follow the currents of convenience. What you say and do defines who you are … exemplify a moral, spiritual and productive life that inspires others, because who you are today will follow you forever."
Masonic Children's Home residents Richie and James Miller enjoy Youth Appreciation Day with their grandparents, Pat and John Miller.
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