Take Time To Read    Masons across Texas are discovering the many rewards of reading to youngsters. As part of the Take Time To Read program, Texas Masons are teaming up with their local libraries and schools to read to children, collect books through book drives, and reap the rewards of glowing eyes, smiling faces and eager listeners. Carrollton Masonic Lodge #1400 is partnered with Central Elementary School in the Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD, where Lodge members and their wives read to the 3rd grade classes every Friday afternoon during the academic year.  All participants agree that this is a really fun and rewarding experience to read to these boys and girls, who are so appreciative and fun to interact with.  If you are interested in participating in our Take Time to Read program, contact Past Master Tom Van Hoose at tv0109@flash.net. Carrollton Masonic Lodge has participated in Take Time To Read for several years, and we would welcome additional volunteers to assist us in expanding the reading program at Central Elementary to include more children each week.  If you are interested in reading to children who are eager to learn, please contact P. M. Thomas Van Hoose at 972-418-4863 for information on how to volunteer for a truly rewarding experience. The Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children is co-sponsoring the program with the Grand Lodge of Texas. Lodges can participate in Take Time To Read at any time and continue it as long as they want. Participation especially is encouraged during Texas Public School Week held annually each March, During that week, Masons are invited to share the important historical role of Masons in Texas public schools while demonstrating support for the education of young people today. A handbook,distributed by the hospital, outlines ways that Masonic Lodges can take part, from distributing brochures and instigating book drives, to reading aloud at home, at libraries and at schools. The hospital also has bookmarks and certificates of recognition available to celebrate Take Time To Read. A start-up kit includes three posters, 50 brochures, 50 certificates, 50 bookmarks and a video.