Staff writer
Advance Lodge No. 114 held its annual Past Masters’ banquet Thursday at Florentine Masonic Center in Florence.
Master Kelly Shaft welcomed members and guests. He also welcomed and introduced Lyn E. Beyer, Grand Master of Kansas Freemasons.
Former past masters of the lodge recognized were Will Tom Grimwood, Ron Hardey, Tim Parmley, and Greg Graham.
Beyer presented a 50-year pin to James Link. Link resides in Cowley, Texas and was a professor at Texas Christian College for 29 years. He said his heart has always been in Florence. His most fulfilling experience was when he was asked to serve in President George W. Bush’s administration as an administrator in the Department of Agriculture from 2005-2009.
Allison Basore was named winner of the Masonic essay contgest. Anna Lubbers was second and Bailey Robson was third.
Katrina Basore of Centre High School, Aiden Cairns, and Logan Waner of Marion High School received $300 scholarships to participate in Kansas Masonic All-State marchind band.
Sara McQuery of Peabody-Burns USD 398 received the Exemplary Teacher award. Brandon Entz of Peabody-Burns High School was presented with the Exemplary Student award.
Following the award ceremony, Beyer gave a presentation on Masonry.