Old Timers’ Night 2025

Old Timers’ Night is always a highlight at Blazing Star, and this year was no exception. Blazing Star Lodge welcomed several guests and returning Brothers, joining in the fellowship. The evening began with a short business meeting, dispensed with quickly so we could focus on what the night was really about, celebrating the legacy and the living tradition of our Lodge.
Our newest Brothers took on their appointed roles for the first time and handled their duties with confidence.
Once the business was wrapped, the Lodge opened its doors to family and friends. Worshipful Brother Breth, returning to the East, gave a playful demonstration of “The Power of the East,” calling on the Deacons to deliver handwritten notes to the Wardens. The notes were lighthearted jabs at the Buffalo Bills and Sabres lousy luck.
WB Breth’s son and daughter then helped distribute traditional pens, personalized for the new Master. That led to a challenge to find the typo hidden on the pens. It did not take long for our new Chaplain, Brother Layman, to spot it; “Blazing Star Lodge #___”. The moment got a good laugh and reminded everyone that even in serious work, there is room for humor and humility.

As with every Old Timers’ Night, part of the tradition is taking time to recognize those who have dedicated themselves to the Craft over many years. These are not just men who joined long ago. They are men who stayed, who showed up, who carried the weight when it was needed, and who helped shape the Lodge into what it is today.
This year, we had the honor of presenting a 50-Year Award to Worshipful Brother George Sleeper. He was the only milestone recipient present that evening, but he carried the moment with quiet dignity. WB Sleeper received his 50-Year Apron, certificate, and pin, symbols of a lifetime of commitment to Freemasonry and Blazing Star Lodge.
Fifty years is not just a number. It is decades of meetings, degree work, mentorship, and steady presence. It is no small feat. Congratulations, Brother Sleeper. Your service has not gone unnoticed, and your example continues to guide those who follow.

WB George Sleeper

Brothers not present who receive significant milestone pins and aprons.
Br. Mark Bostaph – 5 years
Br. Philip Hall – 15 years
Br. Ronald Paskiewicz – 15 years Demit
Br. Charles Brooks – 40 years
Br. Dale Seibert – 40 years
Br. Mark Ward – 45 years
Wor. John Puckhaber – 50 years
Wor. George B. Sleeper – 50 years
Br. Penn Watson IV – 55 Years
Br. George Holdridge – 55 years
Wor. Charles Turner Jr. – 60 years!

East Aurora 2022 Carolcade

The Brothers of Blazing Star Lodge #694 in East Aurora, New York teamed up with the East Aurora Cub Scout Pack #514 for the 2022 East Aurora Carolcade. The Scouts handed out sweet cookies while the Brothers handed out delicious hot cider generously donated by Mayer Bros. Before the night was complete 15 gallons of cider was passed out to the thirsty and cold carolers. Everyone had a great time and the scouts even signed up a few new cubs. We cannot wait until next year to do it again!

Moon Lodge Observance

Tuesday, November 8, 2022, Blazing Star Lodge held its “first-ever” Moon Lodge Observance meeting. First-ever could be incorrect because of the history of Blazing Star Lodge #294.

To honor and promote New York State’s last remaining true Moon Lodge Warren Lodge #32, the Brothers of Blazing Star opened, conducted business, and closed by lantern light. This was truly a unique and powerful experience. The evening started with a pre-opening ritual-inspired exchange of Light which shows how, as Masons, we share our Light and grow stronger with each time we share. This immediately flowed into the traditional opening. W:. Paterek presented a paper on Warren Lodge #32 and how Blazing Star most likely has its roots as a Moon Lodge. All Brothers present requested that the houselights remain off for the duration of business. Modern LED lanterns made this easy.

The Brothers who attended were blown away by the experience.  You had to be there to enjoy it.  If you missed it do not worry because it is certain that Blazing Star Lodge will continue the Moon Lodge tradition at least yearly.   All visitors requested more information on Warren Lodge’s Midnight Rider opportunity.

Moon Lodge Brothers

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