Last night, Kenton Lodge hosted the Grand Historian, Worshipful Brother Johnny Edwards, during its June Stated Meeting. WB Edwards was invited to give a presentation on the historic evolution of recognition between Prince Hall Freemasonry and the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free & Accepted Masons of Oregon.
The evening began in true Kenton fashion with a sumptuous taco bar feast that brought brothers and guests together for fellowship before the meeting. Afterwards, the brethren retired to the lodge room for the formal opening and the business of the evening.
Among the highlights of the meeting:
- The successful balloting of Mr. Raul Ramirez and Mr. Matthew Gold to receive the degrees of Freemasonry at Kenton
- The successful balloting of Brother Joseph Easly for affiliation
- A recap of this year’s Annual Communication in Lincoln City
- A unanimous vote to go “dark” for the summer months
- The official renaming of the lodge’s signature “Kenton Stomp” to the “Kenton Grand Honors”, elevating its ceremonial role as a unique Kenton expression of appreciation and esteem
In addition to WB Edwards, the evening saw an esteemed gathering of Grand Lodge officers and District Deputies, including:
- RWB Blake Presswood, District Deputy of District No. 5
- RWB Zack Andrew, District Deputy of District No. 3
- WB Dale Palileo, Grand Lecturer
- WB Jason Hamblen, Senior Grand Steward
- WB Ian Cawley, Grand Musician
Also recognized were WB Peter Arends, Provincial Officer In the Province Of Zealand In Denmark, WB Gabriel Jones-Gallardo, Worshipful Master of Tuality Lodge No. 6, and WB Hunter Bronson, Senior Warden of Friendship Masonic Lodge No. 160.
Kenton was also pleased to welcome back its Past Masters, WB Sammy Aldrete (2017) and WB Ryan Whittenburg (2021). To mark the lodge’s appreciation and brotherly affection, Worshipful Master Valan Primus invited both to sit in the East for the duration of the meeting which was a gesture symbolic of Kenton’s enduring respect for its leadership lineage.
The evening’s highlight came toward the close of lodge, when WB Edwards presented his paper detailing the journey toward recognition between Prince Hall and the Grand Lodge of Oregon. This thoughtful and well-researched presentation drew keen attention from all in attendance. A recording of his speech is available below. As a token of appreciation, Kenton presented WB Edwards with a meaningful gift: a replica of the key to the Bastille, the very one presented by Brother Marquis de Lafayette to Brother George Washington. Also in keeping with Kenton tradition, WB Edwards also received his “Kenton Halo,” an honor reserved for the lodge’s most distinguished guests.
Following the close of lodge, the brethren resumed their post-meeting revelry with cigars, libations, and good cheer. During the fellowship, the official announcement of Mr. Ramirez’s and Mr. Gold’s successful ballots was met with enthusiastic applause.
Kenton now looks forward to conferring the Entered Apprentice Degree on both candidates before the summer recess, beginning with Mr. Gold’s degree next week.
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