Despite missing the presence of a few officers due to illness and distress, WB Sami Aldrete’s first stated meeting for the year was a resounding success.

The evening started with a dinner consisting of steak and yakisoba noodles prepared by BEA Eric Pease as requested by WB Aldrete.

The brethren also saw the debut of this year’s officer ties and pocket squares courtesy of WB Sami Aldrete, presented during dinnertime.

Worshipful Brother Michael Shebora, the lodge’s Worshipful Master in 2016,  also received his infamous “Kenton Halo”, a lodge tradition reserved for select lodge visitors, past masters and brothers who have provided exceptional service to the lodge and to Freemasonry.

Honored Brothers Blake Presswood and James “Ironblood” Elam were also installed as Marshal and Junior Steward respectively by WB Andrew Gross with WB Dale Palileo acting as installing marshal.

Petitions were also read and voted on, most notable of which was the favorable balloting of WB Emanuel Rose’s petition to affiliate with the lodge and the acceptance of the petition for affiliation of Brother Samuel Friedman, author of Millennial Apprentices. WB Rose’s membership to Kenton marks another step in the lodge’s intention to form a “Past Masters’ Council” that will further assist in maintaining the lodge’s traditions and providing guidance for the lodge’s current and future leaders.

Perhaps the highlight of the evening was WB Andrew Gross’ rendition of the closing charge in front of a crowd of almost 30 brothers. His sincere and heartfelt charge to the brothers reminded everyone in the room of their duty as Masons, and was very well received.

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