An Early Halloween Treat From The Masons

By Kendra Bobowick

With a box of doughnuts balanced in his palm, Ron Eastwood opened the lid to offer Louise Butler a choice from the glazed, chocolate, or cream-filled collection.

“I didn’t expect this; this is wonderful,” she said as a handful of Hiram Lodge No. 18 Masons stopped at various Nunnawauk Meadows residents’ apartment on Saturday, October 17. Stepping into her apartment behind Mr Eastwood were Rich Goessinger, Anthony Raiani and his son Jake, Bill Deane, E.J. Belmont, and Alfred Ballwig. Also joining the Mason’s during their Senior Appreciation Day was Kenn Williams.

Why the early Halloween treats? “We’re knocking on doors and offering them coffee or tea to show our appreciation,” Mr Goessinger explained. It is an effort at outreach and to do something nice for the seniors in the community, he said.

One-by-one as they slipped out of Ms Butler’s apartment, the group gathered to look at a map of the apartment layout. Next they hopped in a van and turned a few corners to arrive at Ruth Burke’s door. Opening her door at the sound of a knock, she smiled to see her visitors. Pouring her a hot cup of coffee and pastries, she said, “I love it! Thank you.”

In a nearby apartment, Mary Kinzel saw the group outside. Soon they stepped inside her rooms, filling the small kitchen. Standing with her coffee, she thanked them: “This is an early birthday present!” The coffee was good as she sipped it, and the weather that morning was beautiful, she said.

Yolanda George was the next recipient on their list — also happy to see the crowd of young faces bringing her a snack.

Newtown Dunkin’ Donuts manager Jeff Dymerski provided the coffee and doughnuts. Additional pastries came from Andrea’s Pastry Shop.