Amidst a warmer-than-usual December evening, the brethren of Kenton, their families and honored guests came together to observe and take part in one of Freemasonry’s oldest traditions: the installation of officers for the ensuing Masonic year.
The installation ceremonies were headed by Most Worshipful Brother Don Stapleton serving as Installing Master. Worshipful Brothers Dale Palileo and Andrew Gross served as Installing Marshal and Installing Chaplain, respectively.
Brother Ivan Mancinelli-Franconi livened up the evening with his harp during the installation ceremonies.
True to Kenton tradition, outgoing Worshipful Master WB Sami Aldrete was presented with his official master’s portrait by honored Brother Doug Auld as well as his past master’s gift. WB Sami’s better half Leslie was also presented with her traditional gift of Tahitian pearls.
In a rare showing, the Past Masters of the lodge from 2014 onwards were in attendance to present WB Sami with his own Past Master’s apron.
Other traditions of the lodge were also observed: the presentation of a box of Alec Bradley Fine and Rare cigars for 2018, the introduction of families and honored guests, and the presentation of gifts for the installing officers.
The brethren and attendees were then treated to a fine middle-eastern dinner prepared in-house.
Among the other highlights of the evening’s celebrations were numerous toasts and a raffle for a crate of fine whiskeys provided by WB Emanuel Rose. The proceeds of the raffle will benefit the lodge’s special projects for 2019.
