By ALEXANDER SIMONE

Staff writer

Centre Lodge No. 147 freemason Norman Bowers said receiving his 50-year pin at Wednesday’s annual Past Masters Banquet was a surreal experience.

“Usually the people getting pins had to be helped up the stairs,” he said. “They’d be in a wheelchair, and there would be four of us helping them.”

Bowers was recognized April 3 for his commitment to the Freemasons, but he wasn’t the only one with an extended tenure, as fellow member Charles Stinchcomb received his 65-year pin.

The Masons also highlighted the importance of education, recognizing Marion High School senior Corrina Crabb as the lodge’s $100 essay winner.

“These men create a special bond by sharing the interest of God and brotherhood of mankind,” she wrote in her essay.

Crabb also said self-improvement was key to helping others.

“We have to believe in something greater than ourselves,” she said. “We have to be our best selves to begin helping others.”

Marion third-grade teacher Shannon Cooper was awarded the title of exemplary teacher for her service to Marion Elementary School.

She received the honor because of her dedication and passion in teaching, elementary principal Justin Wasmuth said.

“She’ll jump in anytime we need help,” he said. “She’s that person who wants kids to succeed, and she embodies what we want to do at MES.”