Charity is a tenet of Masonry. Western Star No. 26 A.F.& A.M., the Albert Lea Masonic Lodge, makes periodic donations to the local food pantry. The Masons raise money through pancake breakfasts to support charities. Minnesota Masonic Charities, a state-level organization, will often match or sometimes double the funds available for a particular project. Together they have donated over $3,000 to the Ecumenical Food Pantry this winter. Pictured are Dorothy Simonsen from the food pantry and Bob Hahn and Jake Loper from the Masons. -- Submitted photo