Masonic Life Network

On Wednesday, April 17, 2013, a thirty year tradition continued with Upland-Mt. Baldy and Ontario Lodges hosting their “Schools Night” at the Ontario Lodge. This night recognizes the public schools efforts to educate our children, and recognizes the students who have distinguished themselves through their scholastic achievement and citizenship,  Many officers and members arrived early to set up the Lodge and dining rooms with tables, chairs, and setting out food for the guests. There was a crowd of 186 parents, family, and students who attended.

During the course of the evening many of the District scholars were acknowledged for their successful scholastic and citizenship achievements. The turnout for the event was characterized as “bigger than ever”. The crowd of parents, family, students, and school staff were very appreciative of the support from Masons of both Lodges.

One of the highlights of the evening was a performance of the student Orchestra. They expertly performed a number of classic rock and movie themes, most notably, “Louie, Louie”. All of the students were impressive. The school teachers stories about what has happened in their classrooms were inspiring. It is obvious that the Mountain View School District has worked very hard to build that all important School-Student-Parent team.  The evidence is those children beaming with pride holding their awards for all of their hard work.

After the festivities, all retired to the dining room for snacks and drinks,  Everyone had a great time.

Editor: 

Jim Blum

On the evening of Tuesday, November 13^th, the Third Annual Public Service Appreciation Awards Ceremony was held at Temescal Palms Lodge #314, F&AM, located at 2313 South Main Street in Corona, California. The event honored public servants who go beyond their regular duties and give of themselves to the community with dinner and an award ceremony to present plaques and certificates of appreciation from the Masonic Lodge and City of Corona.

Freemasonry is the world’s oldest and largest fraternity. The purpose of Masonry is to find good men and make them even better. Masonry is premised upon the core values of brotherly love, truth and relief. The fraternity is actively involved in the community via charitable works and donations. In the United States alone, Freemasons donate over two million dollars each day to charity. The current 2012 Worshipful Master Robert Burger continued the tradition of the event that began two years ago during the tenure of past master Wor. Terri O’barr, retired firefighter from Long Beach Fire Department.

The event was again organized by two outstanding master masons, Chairman Michael Ackerman and Co-Chairman Scott Collins. In addition, the evening event was again hosted by master mason Paul Netland who served as Master of Ceremonies. The ceremony was again strongly supported by and attended by City of Corona Mayor Eugene Montanez. Also in attendance was both the Fire Chief for  Corona Fire department John Medina and Corona’s Chief of Police Michael E. Abel .

The events honorees were two outstanding women Lynn Mata ,Corona Fire Department and Lieutenant Shawn Dredla, Corona Police Department.

Ms. Lynn Mata, Emergency Services Coordinator, was nominated by the Corona Fire Department for her loyal and exemplary work ethic. Mata is not only the “go to” person for the city of Corona emergency response but is the liason to emergency services personnel and disaster relief programs nationwide. Fire Chief John Medina was very proud of the example set by recipient Lynn Mata and in her humble demeanor in receiving the award.

Lt. Shawn Dredla from the Corona police department recently retired after 30 years of excellence and dedication.  Lt. Dredla founded and supervised a Peer Support program for Corona police officers for over 20 years. In addition, she is a member of Soroptimist International of Corona and active community leader.  Police Chief Abel provided testimony to Dredla’s success in balancing life on the police force with a successful family life. Lt. Dredla’s husband and son attended the dinner and award ceremony to show support and appreciation.

Our appreciation and gratitude goes out to Temescal Palms Lodge No. 314, F&AM, City of Corona, the Mayor of Corona, and the Corona Fire and Police Department personnel who collaborated and dedicated time and resources into making this important community event a special celebration of excellence and pride. We look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come.

Submitted By:

Mastor Mason Scott Collins, Installed Marshall at Temescal Palms Masonic Lodge 2012