Level-Setting from the West - November 2025

Brethren, the new Masonic year has begun in earnest and as I look forward to our labors ahead I would like to take a moment to reflect from whence we came.

In the last two calendar years our Lodge has raised twelve Master Masons, has four currently working through their degrees, and three new petitions expected to be read at our Annual Meeting on Veterans’ Day, November 11th.

We all know the dedication it takes to invest time and effort into the degree work necessary to achieve these results and I invite everyone, especially those we don’t see regularly, to come back and witness the renewed energy of the Lodge and take part in the positive changes that can be seen from within and witness the exciting physical improvements happening from without.

West Shore Lodge, in its short period of existence, is recognized as one of the premier lodges in the 22nd District. This year our Lodge was only one of nine in Ohio to earn the Grand Master’s Award and the only Lodge that earned this achievement in the 22nd District. Thanks to Br. Robert Painter, R.S.S., for all his heavy lifting to get our Lodge over the finish line on this.

Our Lodge is honored to have two Brethren serving as district officers: RWB Brian Iselin, now in his second year as District Deputy Grand Master, and WB David Powers, newly appointed as District Education Officer. Congratulations to both, they will represent the Craft and our Lodge with distinction. Outside of the district, Br. Painter, R.S.S., and WB Spisak, R.S.S., have been recognized for their work and are now Regents for the Royal Scofield Society.

At the time of this publication, a new slate of officers will have been elected and will await Installation on Tuesday, December 9th. As one of those officers, I am confident those charged with acting upon the responsibilities to the office to which they may be elected will distinguish themselves in a manner befitting a Lodge of our renown and am honored to be a part of such an excellent group of men.

This new Masonic year our Lodge has a lot planned outside of degree work. Come (back) and join us to see what it’s all about.

Fraternally,

Br. James J. Barone

Worshipful Master Elect