Free and Accepted Masons
Murphys, CA
MASONS HONOR 2012 “TEACHER OF DISTINCTION”
On Friday, June 29th, Ophir Bear Mt, Lodge #33 of Free and Accepted Masons, presented Deborah
Jean Gallo with the 2012 “Teacher of Distinction Award.” Ms. Gallo, a third grade teacher at Hazel
Fisher School was recommended for this award by Noah Shartle. Noah is the 2012 Recipient of the
George M. Truemper Scholarship. He will attend Princeton University in the fall.
Order of the Eastern Star awarded their 2012 Scholarship to Benjamin Howard, who will be
attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Benjamin is the son of Mr. and Mrs. William
Howard of Murphys and the grandson of Virginian and the late Past Master Bob Howard.
The Award Dinner for “Public Schools Month” celebrates the Masonic commitment to public
education. Introductions were made by Dr. Larry Buchanan, retired Superintendent of Schools. In
attendance were the 2010 and 2011 Truemper Scholarship winners Wesley and Gabriel Sagewalker.
Both young Sagewalkers are enrolled at Harvard University. The feature speaker Phil Stock, retired
music teacher form Bret Harte High School focused on the importance of motivation and persistence.
All of the scholarship winners, past and present, have taken his message to heart.
Press release was submitted by Ophir Bear Mountain Lodge #33.
