T h e P i l l a r s
From the East
Greetings from the East,
As we continue to finish the recovery from the restrictive years of Covid, let us continue to join in harmony to build a better tomorrow. ~ Old West Master, 2023
Dear Brethren,
August graced us with a cascade of memorable events. The pinnacle was the coveted Golden Veteran Award ceremony, where our revered Most Worshipful Larry Adamson was honored. The majestic setting of the Shriners Medical Center for Children elevated this occasion even further. In addition, Brother Ian Garcia was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason, marking a landmark in his Masonic journey. Our fraternity also welcomed Mr. Jermaine Soto, a martial arts champion, as he embarked on his Masonic voyage as an Entered Apprentice. Additionally, a crowning achievement for our community was when Erica M. from Newhall Bethel 249 was chosen as Miss California, representing our community to the entire state of California.
As September ushers in with its cool embrace, marking the shift from the sultry summer to the cozy winter, I, as the Master of the Lodge, am always intrigued by the intricate tapestry of Freemasonry's interplay with history during this month. September has not just been a time-marker but a repository of monumental moments, with Freemasonry often at its epicenter.
Consider September 18, 1793. Our nation's first President and esteemed Freemason, George Washington, led the cornerstone laying ceremony for the U.S. Capitol, adorned in Masonic regalia. This event underlined the pivotal role Freemasonry has played in the very foundation of the United States.
Furthermore, September 22, 1823, is etched in history due to Joseph Smith's divine revelation. Smith, the architect of the Latter Day Saint movement, spoke of an angelic encounter, guiding him to the golden plates that birthed the Book of Mormon. The intertwining paths of Freemasonry and this movement, especially in their foundational rituals, continue to intrigue and spark discussions among scholars.
And before I conclude, let me draw your attention to September 5th's Stated Dinner, an occasion that promises both enlightenment and entertainment. We will present a unique historical portrayal titled "This is Your Life George Washington," mimicking the popular TV show format and infusing it with history, ensuring an evening of enriching insight and pleasure.
Let us continue to work together in harmony towards a brighter future for our lodge and our community.
Fraternally yours,
Michael Schneider, PM
Worshipful Master (2023)
661-644-9835 cell/text
From the West
Greetings Brethren from the West,
While our Lodge is currently thriving with outstanding activities, I'd like to highlight the advantages that come from our members' active participation. My hope is that this momentum not only persists throughout this year but also for many years ahead.
Being active in Freemasonry brings with it a wealth of benefits that extend beyond the walls of the lodge. Engaging actively within the Masonic fraternity provides a platform for personal growth, community involvement, and the pursuit of noble principles. By participating in lodge activities, members have the opportunity to cultivate strong bonds of friendship and brotherhood while sharing in the values that Freemasonry holds dear.
Active involvement also enables Masons to contribute meaningfully to their communities. Through philanthropic endeavors and charitable initiatives, Masons work together to make a positive impact on society.
Freemasonry’s commitment to charitable endeavors allows active members to make a tangible impact on their communities, further underscoring the organization’s ethos of service and benevolence
Furthermore, the rituals, teachings, and traditions within Freemasonry provide a unique avenue for introspection and self-improvement, guiding members to become better individuals, leaders, and contributors to the greater good.
Being active in Freemasonry is not merely an affiliation, but a commitment to personal development, benevolence, and the perpetuation of timeless values.
By engaging in Masonic activities, members immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of rituals, symbols, and teachings that encourage self-improvement and ethical behavior. These teachings, often delivered through allegorical stories and ceremonies, offer valuable life lessons that promote moral integrity and a deeper understanding of one's responsibilities to society.
Active involvement in Freemasonry also serves as a pathway to meaningful connections. The bonds formed within lodges foster a sense of camaraderie, transcending generational, social, and cultural divides. These connections provide a support network, enabling members to navigate life's challenges with the guidance and encouragement of like-minded individuals.
In essence, being active in Freemasonry offers a holistic journey of personal development, camaraderie, and community engagement that resonates for a lifetime.
Thank you for your attention, and may your journey through Freemasonry be a pillar of strength.
Fraternally,
Conrad Watson
Senior Warden
661-312-2297 cell/text
From the south
Dear Brothers and Old West Lodge Family,
To begin, I'd like to again extend heartfelt congratulations to our esteemed Past Grand Master, Most Worshipful Larry Adamson on being honored with the illustrious Golden Veterans Award. Your commitment and service stand as a testament to your dedication. Moreover, as you celebrate your birthday, I wish you a day brimming with joy and cherished moments. May this day mirror the incredible mark you've left within the Masonic Community.
As we finish summer, we're surrounded by warmth, growth, and the undeniable buzz of life. It's a time when our lodge resonates with unity and camaraderie. We invite our members to fully immerse themselves in the essence of the season, forging deeper connections within our fraternity and the wider community. Be it through hosting outdoor events, volunteering, or championing local festivities, our aim remains unaltered - to amplify the radiant essence of Freemasonry and manifest our foundational values in every endeavor. Summer beckons us to take a moment, relish the world's wonders, and fortify the ties of brotherhood, making our Lodge a luminous symbol in the community.
Moving to September, our regular ritualistic endeavors will persevere, notably the demonstration of Masonic degrees. These rituals are pivotal in the Masonic lore, offering profound insights to candidates and reaffirming the ethos that underpins our brotherhood. I urge our brethren to actively engage in these ceremonies, not only to deepen their own Masonic understanding but to uplift their peers.
A hearty congratulations to our freshly initiated EAs, Fellow Craft Masons, and our latest Master Masons. In the South, we stand unified, representing the very essence of the pillar of beauty!
Bro Ron Gutierrez , PM
Junior Warden
661-803-0288
this is your life... Brother George Washington Presentation
A Special Lodge Presentation coming to our September 5th, 2023 Stated Dinner
Recalling the television classic "This is Your Life," and its radio predecessor, we are taken back to an era when the premise involved introducing a renowned celebrity and pleasantly surprising them with guests from their past. These guests would share personal stories, weaving together a tapestry of their life's history. In a captivating twist, Sean Foran, PGHP (Past Grand High Priest of Royal Arch Masons of California) the Curator of the Masonic-related museum Grace Dee May, has artfully curated a comparable presentation for the life of Brother George Washington. Assisted by other prominent figures from history, this extraordinary presentation promises to bring to life the remarkable journey of Brother George Washington.
Tuesday, September 5, 2023 Start at 6:00 p .m. - Last Month
September Dinner, Stated Meeting & This is YOur LIfe...
6:00 p.m. Social (Open to all)
~
6:30 p.m. Dinner in the Hall
(all welcome, $15 donation requested, less expensive than show)
Chicken, potato salad, watermelon
~
7:30 p.m. Stated Meeting (Masons only)
upcoming events
September - Public Schools Month
SEPTEMBER
4 - Sep - Mon Building Association (Lodge Members & Invited Guests) 7pm
5 - Sep - Tues Old West Lodge Social, Dinner, Stated Meeting &
This is Your Life... Bro. George Washington Presentation
Social 6pm, Dinner 6:30pm (All Welcome)
Meeting 7:30pm (Masons only)
8 - Sep - Fri DeMolay Meeting 6:30 p.m. & Gun Safety Presentation (All Welcome)
11 - Sep - Mon Jobs Daughters Bethel No. 249 at 6:30 p.m.
12 - Sep - Tue Master of the Lodge Opens Building at 5pm (All Welcome)
Practice starts at 7pm (Masons only)
14 - Sep Thu Eastern Star 7:30pm (Masons & Ladies Welcome)
15 - Sep - Fri Cinema Grotto 7:30 p.m. (All Master Masons Welcome)
17 - Sep - Sun Project Linus Charity (Blanket Making for Veterans) 10:00 a.m. (All Welcome)
19 - Sep - Tue Master of the Lodge Opens Building at 5pm, All Welcome
Practice starts at 7pm (Masons Only)
20 - Sep Tue Officer School of Instruction - Lancaster Lodge (Officers Required, Master Masons Welcome)
22 - Sep - Fri DeMolay Meeting 6:30 p.m. (Boys & Parents Welcome)
23 - Sep - Sat COMPLETING THE ILLUMINATION OF THE LODGE 8am - 12
(All Welcome for Camaraderie and Teamwork)
25 - Sep - Mon Jobs Daughters Bethel No. 249 at 6:30 p.m.
26 - Sep Tue Tue Master of the Lodge Opens Building at 5pm (All Welcome)
Exec Starts at 6:00pm, Practice starts at 7pm (Masons only)
28 - Sep - Thu Order of Eastern Star 7:30 p.m.
30 - Sep - Sat Eggs Benedict Breakfast
F U T U R E S P E C I A L E V E N T S
27 - 29 Oct - Grand Lodge Annual Communication
Nov - 2nd Annual Inter Lodge Bowling for Masonic Homes sponsored by Old West
Degrees
Brother Jermaine Soto 1st Degree
Brother Fortunato Antonio (Tony) Gaudio
Brother Fortunato Antonio (Tony) Gaudio
Newly initiated Brother Jermaine Soto has been competing in Martial Arts his entire life. He has more than 300 amateur matches/fights and has won over 30 international titles. He is currently a two division champion, in both Muay Thai and in kickboxing including Puerto Rico's 1st WBC Muay Thai Champion.
His titles include:
- ISKA International Kickboxing Tournament Champion
- 3x WCK Muay Thai World Champion (current)
- WBC Muay Thai National Champion (current)
- WFL World Kickboxing Champion (current)
- IKKC Muay Thai World Champion (current) .
His current record is 38-0-3 with 27 KO's.
(see additional image later in this trestleboard)
Brother Fortunato Antonio (Tony) Gaudio
Brother Fortunato Antonio (Tony) Gaudio
Brother Fortunato Antonio (Tony) Gaudio
Old West Brother Fortunato Antonio (Tony) Gaudio visiting from Italy.
Brother Ian Garcia 3rd Degree
Brother Fortunato Antonio (Tony) Gaudio
Brother Ian Garcia 3rd Degree
Brother Ian Garcia and his wonderful wife, both dedicated professionals in the healthcare sector, graciously celebrated his 3rd degree by sharing a cherished Filipino custom with the lodge – serving a roast pig complemented by a variety of side dishes. (Image to follow in this trestleboard.)
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Newest Master Mason Ian Garcia
Larry Adamson, PGM Golden Veteran Award
Larry Adamson, PGM Golden Veteran Award
Brother Ian Garcia and his wonderful wife, both dedicated professionals in the healthcare sector, graciously celebrated his 3rd degree by sharing a cherished Filipino custom with the lodge – serving a roast pig complemented by a variety of side dishes.
Larry Adamson, PGM Golden Veteran Award
Larry Adamson, PGM Golden Veteran Award
Larry Adamson, PGM Golden Veteran Award
A landmark event took place when Larry Adamson, Past Grand Master of Masons for the State of California and a longstanding member of Old West Lodge, received the Golden Veteran Award, marking his 50-year journey as a Master Mason. Additionally, he celebrated his birthday on the same day at the Shriners for Children Medical Center in Pasadena. The gathering was honored with the presence of the current Grand Master of Masons, Randall Brill, several members of the Grand Line, and his close friend and fellow Past Grand Master, David Doan, who officiated the event as the Master of Ceremonies. Furthermore, officers from both of the his lodges, Old West Lodge and Sunset Lodge, attended in solidarity, as did his loving family. Attendees were offered tours of the Medical Center, with the turnout exceeding 140 people, all of whom were there to honor the Most Worshipful. Heartfelt gratitude is extended to the Hill Family, the Kelley Family, Amy Hamaker, and numerous others who worked tirelessly to make the event a success. ( pictures below courtesy of Doug Kelley, PM)
Newest Entered Apprentice Jermaine Soto
Larry Adamson, PGM Golden Veteran Award
Newest Entered Apprentice Jermaine Soto
Newly initiated Brother Jermaine Soto (on the right in the photo) has been competing in Martial Arts his entire life. He has more than 300 amateur matches/fights and has won over 30 international titles. He is currently a two division champion, in both Muay Thai and in kickboxing including Puerto Rico's 1st WBC Muay Thai Champion.
His titles include:
- ISKA International Kickboxing Tournament Champion
- 3x WCK Muay Thai World Champion (current)
- WBC Muay Thai National Champion (current)
- WFL World Kickboxing Champion (current)
- IKKC Muay Thai World Champion (current) .
His current record is 38-0-3 with 27 KO's.
(Image to follow in this trestleboard.)
larry adamson, Past grand Master of Masons for the state of california - golden veteran
From the Worthy Patron
Worthy Patron, Doug Kelley, PM
Old West Chapter No. 642 Order of Eastern Star
Old West Chapter No. 642 Order of Eastern Star
Eastern Star Report
Greetings to all,
We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who attended the Eastern Star funeral service on August 10 in memory of Norma Shannon, the beloved widow of our Past Master Tom Shannon. As we fondly remember her, my wife Laura, the Associate Matron, will rise to the East. Norma's legacy will forever live on in our hearts.
On a brighter note, a hearty thank you to all who graced our inaugural "Block Party" on August 3! The event was lively and filled with joy. We are enthusiastically gearing up for more entertaining events in the pipeline.
Our heartfelt initiative of crafting blankets for Project Linus and Young Survivors Coalition is ongoing. The process is straightforward and requires no prior expertise. To put it humorously, even a Past Master like myself can contribute! Please take a moment to review our informational flyer. Our upcoming "party" for this endeavor is on Saturday, September 16, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Feel free to join us anytime during those hours and stay as long as you can. Everyone is heartily invited to partake.
Looking forward to our next "dine-out" event at Hook Burger on Wednesday, September 20, from 4 PM to 9 PM. It's a splendid opportunity to enjoy delectable food, engage in cheerful conversations, and support a harmonious body.
Eastern Star warmly invites MASONS, their wives, and other female kin. We genuinely encourage more gentlemen to consider joining Eastern Star.
Remember, you aren't obligated to join with your wife. I'm always available for a chat if you'd like to know more.
Sincerely,
Doug Kelley (Worthy Patron)
Old West Chapter No. 642 Order of Eastern Star
Old West Chapter No. 642 Order of Eastern Star
Old West Chapter No. 642 Order of Eastern Star
Old West Chapter No. 642 Order of Eastern Star
Old West Chapter No. 642 Order of Eastern Star
Old West Chapter No. 642 Order of Eastern Star
OUr very own Job's Daughter Erica from Newhall Bethel 249 Se
