SIDNEY – The 2019 Christmas Toy Drive conducted by Temperance Lodge No. 73 was a major success. Through the generosity of Masons and the local community, the toy drive garnered numerous toy and cash donations.

The toy drive was for the benefit of the Alpha Community Center in Sidney, Ohio, and it was in conjunction with a Dec. 17 Christmas concert by the Upper Valley Community Orchestra at the Historic Sidney Theatre.

“The toy drive received overwhelming support from local businesses including Ron & Nita’s, City Carry-Out, Sidney Body CARSTAR, and the Sidney Police Department. They loved the idea of helping the Alpha Community Center, and their charity made the toy drive a total success,” Toy Drive Organizer Darrin Ike said.

Additionally, the toy drive garnered $1,000 in cash donations that will be donated in memory of Ross A. Moore, Jr. Moore was a member of Temperance Lodge No. 73, and he was very active in various charities including the Alpha Community Center.

Jan Geuy, executive director of the Alpha Community Center, said the donations exceeded their goal for the 2019 Christmas season. Geuy said she would be honored to accept the donations in memory of Ross A. Moore Jr.

“Ross was always at the Center giving his time helping those in need. He was a good man,” Geuy said.