- fund-raiser for Shriners hospitals

Ralph Breakey named "Mason of the Year"

MONTICELLO - Ralph Breakey of Monticello is a man known for charitable works. A Master Mason since 1947, Mr. Breakey's contributions were recognized recently when he was awarded the title of "Mason of the Year" for 2001. His achievements have primarily benefited the humanitarian efforts Shriners Hospitals for Children, according to James Wall, the Master of Monticello Lodge #532 of Free & Accepted Masons.

Shriners Hospitals for Children is a network of 20 pediatric across North America where youngsters receive free care for orthopedics, burns, and spinal cord injuries. Free transportation to the Shriners hospital in Springfield, Mass. is available by van for Sullivan County residents who need treatment, in part thanks to the dedicated service of Mr. Breakey and others like him through the Kalurah Shrine Temple in Binghamton.

The son of a Monticello physician, "He [Breakey] never says no. He's always there to help you," said Mr. Wall, who presented him with a plaque at a May 12th Masonic awards program held in the Monticello Elks Lodge.

Mr. Breakey has collected over $20,000 during the last five years by means of many thousands of deposit cans, according to Mr. Wall - all of which has gone to aid treatment at Shriners hospitals. But before redeeming the cans, Mr. Breakey has carefully removed countless pull-tabs to sell the aluminum for scrap - proceeds also to benefit the hospital.<BR>

"He makes it a full-time job!" exclaimed Mr. Wall.

In addition to his fund-raising work, Mr. Breakey serves as a Trustee and as Tyler of the Monticello lodge. "He's at every lodge meeting," said Mr. Wall, who expressed thanks for the exemplary community participation and philanthropic service. "He totally deserves this award."

More information about how the Shriners hospital can help a child in need of orthopedic or burns treatment is available at (800) 237-5055, or on the web at www.shrinershq.org. The website of Monticello Lodge #532 is here.