A full team robed in red, purple, and white satin presented the mysteries of the 1st Degree to thirteen candidates on 27 March 2025 in Mountain View. Because a Rebekah degree event was also held that night, three energetic and enthusiastic Odd Fellows lodges joined in the 1st Degree team: Cupertino #70, True Fellowship #52, and the host Mountain View #244.
Thanks to the team: Andrew Crockett (serving as Noble Grand, and playing two roles), A.M. “Aer” van de Water, Jane Beckman, Sara Bruce, Tom Blackburn (photographer, and also playing a role), Angela Commean, and Bex Clark. I was honored to play a role as well as serving as Vice Grand.
We were ably supported by Annie Cronin, Jesse Donaldson, and Tatiana Kuvaldina. Andrew was nimble in shifting costume and voices and Annie graciously sat in as NG as needed. Jesse and Tatiana were creative in feeding and corralling the candidates (one of whom brought seven children!) downstairs while the team finished its dress rehearsal.
Many of the antique Mountain View props were put to good use. The candidates left both well instructed and entertained.
— By Katy Dickinson
