Page 12 - Sojourner Newsletter-Spring 2025_Final

12 THE SOJOURNER

CHAPTER NEWS

KIT CARSON CHAPTER #447/JONATHAN M. WAINWRIGHT CAMP, Randy Geck, PNC.

In the beginning of December, The New Mexico Boys and
Girls Ranch enjoyed a visit by the members of the Kit Carson
Chapter #447 and Johnathan M. Wainwright Camp, Heroes of
’76, two Past Grand Matrons and one Past Grand Patron from
the Order of the Eastern Star, to celebrate Christmas (as they
have done for over 30 years). The members arrived complete
with food, drink, Shrine car, and Santa’s Elf, with gift cards.
The festivities kicked off with the Camp providing the National
Sojourners “When Duty is Done”, flag retirement Program. The kids had never seen
anything like that, and they were bedazzled. Then the Chapter President, Brother Chuck
Connel, continued with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by Brother Randy Geck reciting
the Toast to the Flag. We all enjoyed a wonderful meal prepared by the Ranch Staff. Lady
Merrill-Lee Warren, wife of our Past National President, Brother Chuck Warren, presented
Lady Carol Geck with her name tag and Award Plaque, designating her as a National
Sojourner Grand Dame. Then Santa’s Elf (Brother Len Roughgarden) and Merrill-Lee
passed out some 35 gift cards to the children and staff to supplement their Christmas
shopping. They asked the kids to explain their goals and vision for their future. We even
enjoyed Past Grand Matrons Kitt McKowen and Merrill-Lee sharing their experiences and
insights on how the kids might make the most of their opportunities in a positive way. The
kids were thrilled and amused by all the activities, and we concluded by allowing everyone
to admire the Shrine car (and one staff member drove it around the property). When all was
done, we enjoyed great fellowship where we learned all about the students and their goals
and dreams. These students are good kids who are simply children leaving a troubled family
life so the NM Ranch can provide a stable, nurturing environment where adults act as
surrogate parents providing leadership, education and a sense of security, that allows these
students to focus on settling down and preparing for their successful future. We look forward
to returning again next year to share quality time with The Ranch for Christmas 2025.