On Friday, November 14, 2025, local Nobles and Master Masons from across the Shenandoah Valley gathered at the Beer Museum for a moment many have been hoping to see return to our region—the formation of a brand-new Shrine Club: the Apple Valley Shrine Club, chartered under Kena Shriners.
What began as a simple idea last July—”Let’s bring a Shrine Club back to the Valley”—quickly gained traction. Shriners across the Shenandoah area wanted a renewed space for fellowship, fun with a purpose, and ongoing support for Shriners Children‘s. The vision was clear: strengthen bonds locally while continuing to champion a cause that changes lives worldwide.
Notably, nearly half of the founding members are proud Brothers of Unity Lodge No. 146, reflecting the strong fraternal spirit and community involvement our Lodge continues to nurture.
A Strong Turnout for a Fresh Start
The kickoff event, advertised to all Master Masons with an interest in Shriners International, welcomed both potential new Nobles and current Nobles from any Temple. During the introductions, one Brother shared a meaningful personal note about his petition: the Noble who signed his Shrine petition was the same Brother whose Blue Lodge petition he had signed years earlier—an unexpected full-circle moment that highlighted the depth of our fraternal bonds.
The evening exceeded expectations. With representation from Kena’s Potentate, Recorder, and Divan, the club’s inaugural meeting included a ceremony for two new Shriners, earning heartfelt congratulations from all present.
A special note of gratitude was extended to the Noble, who graciously offered the Beer Museum as the ongoing meeting place and volunteered to assist with the club’s 501(c)(3) paperwork. His generosity provided the perfect environment for fellowship, organization, and the spark of something meaningful.
Leadership & Membership
The Apple Valley Shrine Club launched with an impressive 15 charter members, a clear sign that enthusiasm for Shrinedom in our region remains strong. Officers were elected, bylaws were approved, and a shared mission took shape.
Elected Officers
- President: Tony “TJ” La Cava, PP
- Vice President: Will Bryan
- Secretary: Anthony Fisher
- Treasurer: Mark Harford
- Parade Coordinator: Lewis Moten
Looking Ahead
For now, the club will meet at the President’s call, with notices sent via Google Groups, Facebook, text, and Signal. The Secretary is compiling meeting dates from surrounding lodges to determine the best schedule for future stated meetings.
Behind the scenes, the officers will be working diligently on the administrative foundations—opening a checking account, establishing a shared drive, finalizing 501(c)(3) documentation, and preparing to collect annual dues of $25 as outlined in the newly signed bylaws.
As the President shared in his message to members:
“We are off to a great start with 15 members… Again, thanks for jumping on this train with me. Let’s make a difference together.”
A New Chapter for Shrinedom in the Valley
The formation of the Apple Valley Shrine Club marks an exciting new chapter for Shriners in our region. With dedicated leadership, enthusiastic members, and a shared purpose to support Shriners Children’s, this club is already poised to serve, uplift, and create meaningful fellowship for years to come.
Unity Lodge No. 146 is proud to support and celebrate this milestone. May the Apple Valley Shrine Club continue to grow, inspire, and make a lasting impact throughout the Shenandoah Valley.
Unity Lodge No. 146 
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