Resolution 170250

..Title Honoring and recognizing the Deborah Grand Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star for its contributions to the City of Philadelphia and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and congratulating the Chapter for its 100th Anniversary. ..Body WHEREAS, The Order of Eastern Star is a fraternal organization, primarily comprised of female relatives of Prince Hall Masons, which is dedicated to fraternal love and service to the community. The Deborah Grand Chapter is the umbrella organization of Eastern Star Chapters across Pennsylvania, with more than 50 local chapters spread across the Commonwealth; and WHEREAS, In 1916, local Eastern Star chapters from Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, and Carlisle united to form the Pennsylvania Grand Chapter Order of Eastern Star, also known as the Deborah Grand Chapter, with the aim of spreading the organization's mission of love and service throughout Pennsylvania; and WHEREAS, As the Deborah Grand Chapter grew throughout the Commonwealth, the spirit of sisterly affection, service, and charity began to truly shine. Now comprised of more than 50 chapters, the Order of Eastern Star is actively engaged in numerous philanthropic endeavors in and around the City of Philadelphia; and WHEREAS, Local chapters of the Order of Eastern Star work to improve their communities by engaging the next generation of young people through mentorship programs and by providing scholarships for college-bound students; and WHEREAS, The Deborah Grand Chapter is also dedicated to improving outcomes and quality of life for those battling disease. The Chapter's members participate in fundraisers for breast cancer research, autism awareness, and diabetes education; and WHEREAS, Celebrating its 100th Anniversary, the Deborah Grand Chapter elected Marva Linda Montgomery and Charles E. Washington to serve as the Chapter's 50th Grand Worth Matron and Grand Worth Patron in 2016; and WHEREAS, The Deborah Grand Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star embodies the spirit of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection. The Deborah Grand Chapter has worked to improve the Philadelphia community throughout its 100-year history, and the City is proud to recognize that history; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That the Council hereby honors and recognizes the Deborah Grand Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star, on its contributions to the City of Philadelphia and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and congratulates the Chapter for its 100th Anniversary. FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Deborah Grand Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star as evidence of the deep appreciation and sincere sentiments of this legislative body. ..End