Masonic Life Network

February 29, 2012

Brethren of Chino Valley Lodge today as part of a “Reading Across America” campaign to interest and promote reading to elementary school students visited Edwin Rhodes Elementary School. Edwin Rhodes was the founder of Chino Valley Lodge.

Senior Deacon Brother Jim Duran spearheaded the project and was able to gather the following Brethren in reading to various classes at the school:

Master of the Lodge Worshipful Manny Blanco, PM, Junior Warden Worshipful John Cover Spear PM, Senior Deacon Brother Jim Duran, Junior Steward Brother Stanley Briones, Secretary Brother Philip Stekel and the Assistant Grand Lecturer of Division 8 Worshipful Frank Lee who took time from his busy schedule to participate.

Principal of the school; Mr. Adam Bailey was highly enthusiastic and supportive of the volunteers from the Lodge. "We have developed a close and building relationship with Chino Valley Lodge. A garden was recently planted and now with the great show of support today by the Lodge members, we feel confident that the relationship with continue to flourish".

Reactions from the Brethren who participated were also enthusiastic. "It's not everyday that you get a chance to get involved on this level. It was a truly rewarding experience".

The "Reading Across America Project" is similar to the "Raising A Reader and Project Literacy" programs currently being endorsed by Grand Lodge of California, Division 8 and Chino Valley Lodge #427.

Brother Philip Stekel

Secretary

Chino Valley Lodge #427

As everyone knows our project this year is Operation Literacy. I am VERY honored to be the chairman of Division 8 Operation Literacy program this year. When I first undertook this endeavor I did not realize the importance and urgency regarding illiteracy rate in the state of California. One of the great things that has happened is the fact that Division 8 can work hand in hand with the Grand Lodge Public Schools Advisory Council. Using both teams resources insures success of our project.

California ranks close to the bottom of all 50 states regarding literacy. That itself is scary enough, but with the economy being what it is and the State is still cutting school budgets, the kids need us Masons more than ever. We are partnering with a national group called "Raising-A-Reader". They have helped over 800,000 children through out the country and have a very good reputation for their system working well. The money we raise will go towards buying books to be circulated in kindergartners home every week. Also included in their "book bag" will include a DVD aimed at the parents or caregivers to teach the children how to read these books.

We will be announcing our program "Kick-off" soon. So please keep checking the web-site. And our big fund raising event is scheduled for June 20th. Stay tuned for more info on this exciting program.

Anyone that wants to help, either physically or financially,feel free  to contact me,

Jim Ridley

Chairman, Division 8 Operation Literacy

(951) 329-8854

bbcakessr@aol.com