Folsom’s Catherine Elder, a 45-year member hd been named new Worthy Matron
FOLSOM — The New Hope Chapter No. 117 of the Order of the Eastern Star held its annual Installation of Officers on November 22, 2025, marking the formal transfer of Chapter leadership for the upcoming year. The ceremony included music, addresses, and presentations. Press+Release Local Chapter Ins…
Catherine Elder of Folsom, a 45-year member of the organization, is the new Worthy Matron, the role equivalent to president of the local Chapter. This year’s installation was unique in that all 18 officers were installed by the statewide leader, Teri Baughman of Loomis. One of Baughman’s initiatives, now being implemented by the Folsom chapter, is to be visible serving local communities. The Folsom chapter has more than 100 members, and the Order has additional chapters in Auburn, Roseville, Placerville, Elk Grove, Rio Linda, Penryn, Sacramento, and across the state. Press+Release Local Chapter Ins…
Founded in 1867, the Order of the Eastern Star has a mission of leadership, charity, and financial support through scholarships and member aid. Its core values draw inspiration from the stories of five Biblical heroines, providing members opportunities for personal growth, leadership, and community engagement.
New Hope No. 117 meets at the home of Natoma Lodge No. 64 of the Masons of California, the oldest continuously active community organization in Folsom. Elder’s Associate Patron, who must be a Mason, is Brian Tatro of Citrus Heights. Tatro is a past Master of Natoma Lodge. The Eastern Star strives to work with local Lodges in supporting the charitable purposes of both organizations. Press+Release Local Chapter Ins…
Recent charitable efforts by the Chapter, Elder said, include contributions to the Eastern Star youth scholarship fund, sponsorship and participation in the City of Folsom’s Community Service Day, and support to Brady’s K-9 Fund, inspired by a visit from Folsom Police Department’s K-9 to a Chapter meeting.
The Chapter also supports youth groups such as Job’s Daughters and Rainbow for Girls. Members additionally meet for charitable sewing projects, including sewing port-pal pillows and creating bags for walkers used in nursing and retirement homes. Press+Release Local Chapter Ins…
Funds for these initiatives are raised through donations, silent auctions, yard sales, and investment earnings. “We have fun working together and are looking for more ways to serve,” Elder said. Press+Release Local Chapter Ins…
“The Grand California Chapter, which oversees all California Eastern Star chapters in the state, recently raised over $100,000 for its Paws for Purple Hearts and Purple Elephant – Alzheimer’s Association special projects,” said Debbie Ritchie, Secretary of the Chapter. This is in addition to its other charitable projects. The organization also provides assistance to individual members as well as scholarships, some of which are reserved for those studying music, forestry, or entering an accredited seminary or theological college. Press+Release Local Chapter Ins…
For more information about California’s Order of the Eastern Star, its local chapters, or how to apply for scholarships or contribute to its funds, visithttps://oescal.org. The Order of the Eastern Star is a worldwide fraternal, non-profit, charitable service organization associated with the family of Masonry, similar to Shriners, Scottish Rite, York Rite, and others.
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