Page 15 - Sojourner Newsletter-Winter 2024 FINALv2

Volume 101, Issue 1 15

KIT CARSON CHAPTER #447 (Larry McDougal, Southwest Area Representative)

The New Mexico Boys and Girls Ranch enjoyed their Annual Christmas Party
Saturday December 3, 2023, sponsored by Kit Carson Chapter #447 of the
National Sojourners (the military Order of Free Masons). The Ranch is a
Christian organization dedicated to helping youth in risky home environments as
well as their families to pursue better futures. The Ranch helps students to
recognize their inherent value by identifying skills needed to succeed in life.
Members of Kit Carson Chapter have helped sponsor this celebration for over
50 years, and we plan to continue for many years to come.

We had several speakers this year. Leon Alderette, supervising Dad for the
Masonic youth group known as DeMolay, explained the purpose of DeMolay
International and what a major part it plays in the lives of the young men
involved, using his experience as a Senior DeMolay member since high school.
Beth McKowen, Past Grand Matron of New Mexico Order of the Eastern Star
PGM Dan Irick “Dinki the Clown” (OES) shared her view of women in the work place using her experience in her
biological research career field. Randy Geck, Past National Commander for the
Heroes ’76 (honorary order within National Sojourners) gave an exceptional rendition of the “Toast to the
Flag” poem, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The festivities were led by PGM Dan Irick as Dinki the
Clown, substituting for Santa Claus. Dan is a Past Grand Master of Masons in New Mexico as well as Past
Chapter President and Camp Commander. He was assisted by his lovely wife Jodie. The local Chapter
provided gift cards from Walmart to every participant, which Dinki handed out. Gabe Kincaid, the local
DeMolay Chapter Master Counselor also handed out their gift cards to those participating. The Ranch
Counselors all sat on Dinki’s lap and cut up to everyone’s delight. Dinki led everyone in his “Brain Boxer”
song, in which everyone joined in and enjoyed the program. The Ranch provided a nutritious lunch, which was
replete with enjoyable fellowship. The Chapter was joined by Brothers Dave Steinbaugh (new member),
Anthony Ochello (Chapter Officer) and Larry McDougal, SW Area Representative to the President, National
Sojourners and organizer for this event. Susan Kemp, Past Matron of Jessamine Chapter OES, Georgia “Kit”
McKowen, Past Grand Matron OES of NM, DeMolay Parent/Advisor, John Wallace, a Navy Veteran and
members, Aden Leon and Jaden Osander. A heartfelt thank you is appropriate for Kinsey and Travis Yoakum,
as well as Dawn Goodrum for allowing the Sojourners to celebrate the Holiday Season with the Ranch
participants. Our Chapter is looking forward to having a successful return visit in December 2024.

The New Mexico Boys and Girls Ranch and Kit Carson Chapter #447