July/August 2007
VOLUME 14, ISSUE 4
BEACON A JOINT PUBLICATION OF THE GRAND LODGE OF OHIO AND THE OHIO MASONIC HOME
Record Showing of Generosity Lifts Ohio Masonic Support of Special Olympics to $200,000 Ohio Masons established a
both 1993 and 2006. This year’s feat represents a 42% increase from last year. For more than a quarter of Century, Special Olympics athletes have held a prominent place in the outreach of Ohio Freemasonry. During that period, Ohio Masons have contributed more than $2.3 million to help pay the costs of the Special Olympians attending the program’s More than 400 Masons participated in the Opening
new high-water mark in their generosity to the Ohio Special Olympics, by contributing a record $200,000 this year. The highest previous giving was $140,000, accomplished in
Ceremony of the Ohio Special Olympics. Just before entering, Grand Master Michael A. Himes, on right holding check, and Michael Cecil, chairman of the Grand Lodge Special Olympics Committee, inform brethren of the $200,000 to be donated.
annual Summer Games in Columbus. This year, the $200,000 ceremonial check was presented by Grand Master Michael A. Himes during the gala opening ceremonies on June 22 at Ohio State’s Jesse Owens Sports Complex. Hundreds of Masons, wearing white shirts and aprons and Special Olympics ball caps, marched into the stadium to the standing ovation and cheers of onlookers, many of them Special Olympics parents. Then the Masons had their chance to greet the parade of Special Olympics athletes as they passed. (Story continues on page 8)
This Mason gives a hearty “thumbs up” to the crowd at Jesse Owens Stadium, which welcomed the Masons with an enthusiastic ovation. Above, a line-up of Masons provides the passing Special Olympics athletes with inspirational applause.