There is something special about building something from the ground up in your own backyard. On November 14, 2025, I had the privilege of helping found the Apple Valley Shrine Club, a new extension of the Kena Shriners based right here in Front Royal.
Most of us involved are Masons from the local area, looking to bring the spirit and philanthropy of the Shrine closer to home. Because I’m so involved in our local community—to the point where brothers often jokingly call me the “Mayor of Front Royal”.
The Business of Brotherhood
This has been my first experience being on the ground floor of starting a nonprofit, and as a “tech and specs” guy, I find the process fascinating. It shares a lot of DNA with starting a corporation or an LLC, but with a unique twist: the Kena Shrine acts as our parent organization.
Navigating the layers of paperwork, bylaws, and bureaucratic processes required by both the ‘Mother Shrine’ and the government adds a level of complexity I haven’t dealt with before. Thankfully, we have a Brother/Noble lawyer familiar with the process handling the filings. It’s a delicate balance of local autonomy and institutional tradition, ensuring that our new club meets the high standards of Shriners International from day one.
The Full Circle of Brotherhood
The night was made even more significant by the presence of the Divan (the Shrine’s executive leadership), who were there to induct a few new members.
During the ceremony, I had a “full circle” moment that perfectly illustrates the bond of the Craft. One of the new Shriners pointed out that I had signed his petition to join the Shrine—yet he was the one who had originally signed my petition to join the Blue Lodge years ago. Seeing that cycle complete itself in a brand-new club was a powerful reminder of how we all help each other grow through the degrees.
