By Paul Rodriguez-Obrien—Master
Brethren, your officers and I welcome you back as we embark on the 99th year of the founding o
r our lodge.
I am so very pleased to see that by the end of 2020 we witnessed a vaccine for Covid-19 being distributed in “Phase 1” to hospital workers, first responders, and residents and staff at long-term care facilities through the Presidents “Operation Warp-Speed” initiative. We observed that when it is of the most high importance, we as a country can come together to help those to which the call is the greatest.
Once those groups have been vaccinated the process will move on to “Phase 2”, which includes essential and critical infrastructure workers, older adults, people with underlying health conditions that cause higher risk of severe illness, and people in jail or prison or people living in other congregate settings. “Phase 3” includes children and young adults (as of Tuesday Ca. residents under the age of 16 will not receive the vaccines) as well as residents working in lower-risk settings. The final “Phase 4” will be administered to any remaining individuals who were not included the first three phases.
This opens the door to seeing some form of normality for 2021, and the cautious resumption of our Masonic activities within our lodge. So the obvious question would be as to when this would be allowed again? …The best answer I can report back (via the Grapevine) is that it could be 1 month after our State Governor and/or Alameda County Health Officials deem safe; ‘Social and recreational gatherings’, and that the “Grand Lodge” then gives their blessings as well.
Until then, your officers are always looking (and requesting) creative ways to keep us connected.
12/12/2020 - CC-551 2021 Installation of Officers.
This event was definitely enhanced by some tips and techniques in conducting a smoother more professional “Zoom” presentation by Bro. Steve Kolden and Bro. SD. Andrew Hawes.
12/26/2020 - The virtual “The Feast of St. John the Evangelist” officiated by JW. J. Rafisura.
This event happened after the time in my writing of this article, but I’m sure it went over with the precision that Bro. J. is known for as our Junior Warden. Great Job Bro J.
01/07/2021 - CC-551 January Virtual Stated Meeting.
02/04/2021 – CC-551 February Virtual Stated Meeting with SW. Brian Ross sitting in as Master.
Preparations for a possible Valentine Virtual Event on 02/11/2021.
It’s going to be an exciting year, this I can guarantee!
So my Brethren and families, stay safe, stay healthy, and know you are a valuable part of our Masonry family. We are here to help and support you anyway we can. Just reach out and call us. Our phone numbers and email address are easily found within this Trestleboard, and on our website.
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