BLYTHE-NEEDLES LODGE NO. 473

Over 100 Years Of Freemasonry

Chartered April 9, 1919 since then we've been making true friends, improving ourselves, having an impact in our community. Blythe-Needles Lodge’s mission is to promote personal growth and improve the lives of others. We take responsibility for the well-being of our brothers, our families, and the community as a whole.

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Latest News | Blythe-Needles Masonic Lodge #473

April 2025 Trestleboard Message

From the East

Brethren,

As we roll right into April, I want to take a moment to offer a huge THANK YOU to those of you who stepped up and helped us with our annual commitment to the Colorado River Fair. A few of your brothers were able to cover the 4 shifts per day for all four days. Worshipful Larry Wuertz, Zach Bush, Sutton Miller, Worshipful Stu Ryan, Terry Aldridge and myself took on the duty this year while earning a few extra bucks for the Lodge budget. Also a thank you to the brethren for holding down the fort in my absence during last month’s stated meeting.

Our deepest condolences to Worshipful Mike Presley and their entire family on the recent loss of their beloved Sydney. I didn’t have a great deal of interaction with her, but whenever I did I always remember I was always greeted by her warm smile. I hope many of you will reach out to Mike when you can as our brother deserves and needs our love and support.

Please make time to attend lodge as much as your schedule will allow. Check the accompanying calendar for this month’s schedule. Remember, only one more stated meeting in May before we go ‘dark’ in June and July.

Take care, everyone!

On the Level,

Jeff Gatchell

From the West

Brethren,
April brings with it a sense of renewal and energy, a time when nature thrives and reminds us of the importance of growth and strength. Just as a well-built structure stands firm through time, our Lodge is strengthened by the dedication and commitment of its members. It is through our shared efforts that we ensure our Lodge remains a place of learning, support, and Brotherhood. Strengthening the Lodge is more than just maintaining our traditions—it is about actively
participating in its success. Whether it be attending meetings, mentoring newer Brothers, or taking part in degree work, each of us plays a role in fortifying the bonds that unite us. Our Lodge thrives when we stand together, each contributing in our own way to the foundation that has supported generations of Masons before us.

As we move forward in our Masonic journey, let us reflect on how we can contribute to the strength of our Lodge. By being present, engaged, and willing to share our knowledge and experience, we ensure that our Brotherhood remains strong—not just for today, but for future generations.

Fraternally,
Sutton Miller
Senior Warden

February 2025 Trestleboard Message

From the East.......

Brethren,

First things first - I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to those who attended our annual installation of officers on Saturday, January 4th. We had a nice gathering (would have been nice to have more of course), a really good installing "Team", and were able to get the majority of the 2025 officers installed. Worshipfuls Larry Wuertz, Ted Morris, and Thomas Johnson (29 Palms) collectively did a fantastic job of making it all look easy. The lunch that followed (from Chipotle) was excellent, and there was a nice Lodge-themed cake for dessert. Thank you to those of you that assisted in making it all possible, and to those who took time out of their busy lives to attend. Support within and among the brethren should always be a high priority.

For February's stated business meeting (Wednesday, the 5th), brother Beltran-Soto and his lovely wife Diana will be bringing tamales. We will have appropriate side dishes to accompany them, so come hungry. $10 pp is usual and customary. We'll start eating at 6, have our meeting at 7, and should have everyone out in a reasonable amount of time. Since February is Valentine's month, we encourage you to bring you spouse or significant other with you.

The Colorado River Fair is fast approaching and we plan on 'covering' the exhibit building again this year. This helps bring in some extra funds, and increases our visibility within the community. There will be a sign-up sheet available at the stated meeting. Your time and participation will be greatly appreciated! The dates are March 13th through the 16th.

The Hall Association will provide a brief report at the meeting to get everyone caught up on some improvements that have, and are still in progress to the building. The Hall Grant we applied for and received has been a tremendous help in getting some much needed things done.

I hope you all are well, and will plan on showing up for the February meeting, and as always please refer to the enclosed calendar for scheduled activities.

Fraternally,

Jeff Gatchell

(M)

January 2025 Trestleboard

The January 2025 Trestleboard is available for viewing. Click on the image above to download the trestleboard.

We wish everyone in our Masonic Family a happy New Year!

WHAT IS MASONRY?

Masonry is the world’s first and largest fraternal organization. It is guided by the enduring belief that each man has a responsibility to make the world a better place. For 300 years, Freemasonry has enhanced and strengthened the character of individual men by providing opportunities for fellowship, charity, and the search for truth – within ourselves and the larger world.

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REWARDS OF BEING A FREEMASON

MAKING TRUE FRIENDS

Masonry is a community of men and their families who share similar beliefs and values. The fraternity finds it important to connect with other men of honor, compassion, love, trust, and knowledge, regardless of their race, color, religious beliefs, political views, sexual orientation, physical ability, citizenship, or national origin. We are friends and brothers, and are connected through this vital and uplifting organization of moral men.

IMPROVING OURSELVES

Our continuing pursuit of truth, knowledge, ethics, and leadership skills makes us better men and brings more meaning to our lives. Learning the tenets of Freemasonry, paired with being an active part of our community, gives us the opportunity to develop leadership and organizational skills, and builds self-discipline through commitment and self-confidence.

HAVING AN IMPACT

As a member of the Freemasons, the Grand Lodge of California, and Blythe-Needles Lodge No 473, we are a part of a worldwide organization that values tradition, history, and timeless wisdom. The traditions and core values of our fraternity are meaningful today and will endure for centuries to come because of our direct impact in our community, through our charities, and on a personal level.

Historic Fraternal Brotherhood

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