Indiana Disaster Relief From Tornados

The Grand lodge of Indiana has issued the following message about disaster relief from the recent tornados in Indiana:

Brethren,
Most of you have learned of the recent rash of tornados to hit southern Indiana. The Grand Lodge office has had several inquiries regarding ways to help with the recovery efforts. We have been in contact with two different Worshipful Masters regarding damages. The Worshipful Master of Grandview #161, WB Ira David Bevins reported that the front awning roof of their building was heavily damaged, and the building is unsafe to enter at this time. WM Bevins was not aware of any injuries, and no other serious damage in Grandview, Indiana. Their insurance company has been contacted and will help them deal with the damage.

The Worshipful Master of Henryville Lodge #651, WB Jerry Wayne Zollman, Jr. has informed us of their current situation. The lodge building escaped with minor damage, a few broken windows and some minor roof damage, which is also covered by insurance. The Masonry structure still has electricity, heat and water. WM Zollman has informed us that some members had some home damage, and one brother had serious injuries. WM Zollman has been in contact with the Red Cross and the local township authorities in his area, and has offered the use of the lodge hall as a possible shelter or distribution center. He was told that there are facilities close by to act as shelters for displaced residents as well as adequate food necessities flowing in. The lodge hall may likely become a distribution center in the coming days. WM Zollman will let us know if and what we all can do to help with their tragic situation in a couple of days as disaster relief plans are implemented. He cautions that physical help and supplies should not simply come to the community, since professional disaster relief people are on the scene and will likely turn such aide away. This office will send out further updates as information comes available. You can contact Worshipful Master Zollman at jzollman@insight.com or by telephone at (812) 569-7814 if you wish to discuss assistance with him. Money donations will likely be the best help at this time. Monetary donations can be made through the Grand Lodge Web Site under the Contributions heading followed by Disaster Relief. Monetary contributions have also been set up as listed below.

AUSTIN:
Disaster Relief Donation Center
Jennings Twp. VFD Parking Lot
Trailer will be parked between Austin City Hall
& Jennings Twp. Vol. Fire Department
Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday
10am - Noon & 2pm - 7pm
Need Donations: good used furniture, good
clean clothes,toiletries & household items
Please No Food Items @ This Location
For More Info Call: 812.794.6646

SCOTTSBURG
Disaster Relief Donation Center
Mid America Science Park
Lake Road Behind Pizza Hut
Needed Donations: non-perishable food items and snacks,
water, personal hygiene items, pillows, blankets, towels and
wash cloths, pet food, and disposable diapers.
Also needed are work gloves, generators, chain saws, rakes,
shovels, flash lights, large heavy duty trash bags, tarps,
and Large Storage totes.
Check Donations can be made to: Disaster Relief Fund
Clothing is not being accepted at this time
For More Info Call: 812.820.3472

Richard J. Elman, PGM
Grand Secretary
317-634-7904
grsec@ingrandlodge.org