Solomon: Helping a local scholar pursue her dreams
Valley Voices
Who are the Freemasons? Those who ask that question will hear the stock answer: “It’s the oldest fraternity in the world and is a group of good men who want to be better men.”
The path toward being a better person includes supporting one’s community.
For over one hundred years, Castle Lodge No. 122 has supported our community quietly, behind the scenes. Founded in Eagle in 1908, the current location on Third Street has been their home since 1954.
In 2001, the late Eagle Fire Chief Jon Asper began the annual Masonic Toy Store, or the “Toy Store,” as a means to reach out to families in need. It has served two purposes since — to offer a smile to a child during the holiday season and to support mothers and families that may not ask for help otherwise. The Toy Store is supported by donations from local businesses, individuals and municipalities — as well as used ski and bicycle sales during the spring and fall.
A second outreach effort the Lodge commits to is a scholarship program. A modest $500, sometimes more when extra donations can be gathered from membership, the scholarship started with an investment from one of the Lodge member’s businesses and is currently funded solely through donations and enhanced by individual contributions.
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By 2013, the Lodge noticed that high school guidance counselors were not highlighting local scholarships to the students. The irony was that it was hard to find a group operating “behind the scenes.”
After a timely presentation from Judge Sullivan, an expanded program was termed, “The Second Chance Scholarship.” This scholarship goes to graduates of the Eagle County Recovery (or RISE) Court, after an application and interview process, to help individuals obtain licensure, certifications, or education that will help recipients succeed on their new path.
Since the founding of that program, the Lodge has alternated between awarding traditional and second chance scholarships each year.
One past recipient of the Lodge’s traditional scholarship is Brooklyn Vargas, a graduate of Eagle Valley High School and Colorado School of Mines. She is a dynamic scholar who, during her time at Colorado School of Mines, delved into groundbreaking research and leadership roles.
“Starting out, I experienced a lot of self-doubt and seemed to struggle a lot more than my peers. I didn’t let this deter me,” Vargas said. “I quickly learned how to thrive as a student. I began studying in groups, made plans with friends to ensure I would take a break from academics, and sought out extracurricular activities to have a better work-life balance.”
Her remarkable journey included contributions to musculoskeletal research, awards, and publications. Now pursuing a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Utah, she remains dedicated to advancing the field and inspiring future STEM enthusiasts.
“And I’m in the Utah Medical Orchestra!” Vargas adds. “It’s been a fun thing to do to decompress from classes and research.”
Her accomplishments exemplify the Lodge’s mission of fostering personal growth and community support, making her a shining example of the values they uphold.
Kent Rose, the former mayor of Vail, notes, “I am really impressed! (Vargas) will change the world.”
When asked how Castle Lodge could help, she said, “Any support, especially networking, would have a great impact on my future career. I hope to find a place at the Steadman Clinic to continue research after my PhD.”
In recognition of her outstanding dedication and potential, Castle Lodge is proud to announce an additional $1,350 scholarship awarded to Vargas for the completion of her Ph.D.
Castle Lodge’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing support underscores its dedication to the growth and success of individuals within the community.
Vargas is a shining example of this — a young lady who proves to be a rising star.
To apply for next year’s scholarship, or to make a donation supporting future recipients, please email: secretary@castlelodge122.org.
The 2023 Toy Store dates are Dec. 21-22, from 6-9 p.m., at 130 E. Third Street in Eagle. If you would like to volunteer or donate to that effort, please email: secretary@castlelodge122.org.
Castle Lodge is a 501(c)3 and all donations are tax deductible.
Matt Solomon is a longtime valley local who lives in Eagle.
