The Elbow and the Opportunity
In the lead-up to the founding of the Apple Valley Shrine Club, I had several conversations about where I could best serve. I had previously been asked whether I was interested in the Secretary or Treasurer’s office. Between the two, I was leaning toward Treasurer—I’m a “specs and numbers” guy at heart, and I liked the idea of helping the club build a solid financial foundation from day one.
However, on the night of the organizational meeting, November 14, the room’s energy took a different turn. As the floor opened for nominations, a brother gave me a firm jab with his elbow, nudging me to put my name in for the Treasury. I was ready to do it, but at that exact moment, another brother spoke up. He seemed eager to take on the responsibility.
In Masonry, we talk a lot about “harmony being the support of all institutions.” I didn’t want to overstep or create a contest if someone else was jumping at the chance to serve. I decided to keep my seat and let the moment pass, figuring I would serve the club in whatever capacity was needed later.
The “Custom-Fit” Office
That’s when the surprise came. An additional office was announced: Parade Coordinator.
I learned that this is actually an older office that was used in clubs years ago. The leadership wanted to bring it back specifically for our new club to ensure we have a dedicated focus on our public presence.
It immediately felt like the right fit. Given that I’m already so deeply involved in local events—and with the brothers constantly calling me the “Mayor of Front Royal”—it sounded like a role specifically resurrected for my skill set. While the Treasurer handles the books, the Parade Coordinator handles the visibility and the legacy of the Shrine on the streets.
Coordination and Community
By stepping back from the Treasury, I ended up in a position that leverages my strongest asset: my connection to this community. I now get to be the point man for how the Shrine shows up in our local streets.
It was a classic “win-win” for the new club. The brother who wanted the Treasury got to serve, and I found a role that perfectly blends my new identity as “Leonardo” the hobo clown with my “Mayor” status in town.
Now that the bureaucratic paperwork is underway and the Divan has set us on our path, I’m ready to stop looking at the ledger and start looking at the parade routes. Front Royal, get ready—the Apple Valley Shrine Club is coming to town!
Looking Toward the Streets
As the Parade Coordinator, I’m already planning how the Apple Valley Shrine Club will support Front Royal, Winchester, Strasburg, and other nearby towns. Between our local members and the energy we’re bringing to the Valley, I’m excited to see our “little cars,” our clowns, and our colors representing the Shrine in our local parades and events.
Starting a club like this is about more than just meetings; it’s about creating a permanent presence for service and fellowship in the community I love. I’m ready to get to work—and maybe find a parade route or two.
