Executive Committee

2025-26 Annual Report

The primary focus of the Executive Committee during this past year has been on Member Engagement. This, of course, is at the pinnacle of the fraternal core values of our membership. Whether it be philanthropy, enlightenment, or brotherhood, our goal has been to provide the most diverse and inclusive array to suit the needs of our members and families.

To say the least, it’s been an exciting year at the Valley. We hosted Walt Wheeler, Sovereign Grand Commander of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, for a premier stop on his Town Hall Meeting Tour. Our cast and crew were selected to perform and film the 6th degree featured on Thursday Night at the Rite. Our Stated Meetings have been a mix of educational and celebratory. Our events have been designed for members and as an outreach to other masonic affiliations, families, and communities. We have made exceptional marks on all the Valley of Excellence requirements. I am proud to say that we are a strong Valley!

Reunions
In the Fall of 2025, our Reunion theme was a Tribute to the Chicago Bears’ 40th Anniversary of their Superbowl triumph. This was a celebration of a group of men who took the trophy through heart, fortitude, and drive to win. Not only for that season, but notably the greatest team in football history. This event was highlighted by a presentation by guest speaker Dan Hampton, a Hall of Fame honoree. Both our Explore the Rite Night and our reunion kickoff parties provided the membership the opportunity to get in the full spirit. The fall reunion yielded us 30 new members and a memorable experience for many of our current members as well. Our Spring 2026 Reunion theme took us to another celebration, Mardi Gras. This event was highlighted by all the fun and libation with Tarot Card Readers, Zydeco Bands, Magicians, beads, and masks. The Spring Reunion resulted in 28 new members joining the Valley.

Reunion Class Honorees
Our Fall class honoree was Illustrious Bro. Donald H. Helmig, 330. Ill. Bro. Helmig was a well- respected active freemason and community advocate. His generosity extended across many organizations within his business, fraternity, and family.
Our Spring class honoree was Illustrious Bro. Wallace B. Dunn, 330. Ill. Bro. Dunn served as Commander-In-Chief of Oriental Consistory beginning in 2006 and served on the Board from 2008-2014, as well as Board Treasurer until 2021. His list of Masonic accolades and accomplishments is extremely large, and so is his personality.
These brethren are true examples of the finest that Masonry has to offer, and we honor them for their contributions.

MSA & 33rd Recipients
At ICOD in Springfield last June, we witnessed Mike Behm and Bruce Zimmerman receive the Meritorious Service Award for their great contributions to our Valley. This year’s recipients will be Dennis Hennebry and Chuck Masny. In August, the Supreme Council presented five 33rd honorees from the Valley of Chicago: Marc Brofka, Bob Kefalas, John Marquardt, Karl Nygard, and Brian Owen. We offer our congratulations to all for these well-deserved awards.

Charities and Youth Group Support
We are committed to the philanthropic endeavors as a core of the Fraternity, which continues to support our charities by donating funds and participating in their programs. Last year, our charitable contributions exceeded $12,000 to all areas special to our membership, including veterans, youth, cancer, homeless, animal rescue, multiple sclerosis, autism, seniors, and Alzheimer’s, to name a few. We are also proud to have supported masonic missions abroad, installing water wells in the Philippines. Not to mention, scholarships to well-deserving students and future leaders. Plus, our support of the Dyslexia Centers and their programs giving children the fundamental skills to succeed.

Finally, our thanks to the Valley Staff, Presiding Officers, Board Members, and Board President Brian Owen for his undying commitment to the Association. Thank you for your hard work and diligence in protecting our assets and providing a worthwhile experience for the Valley membership.

Respectfully submitted,

Scott D. Neville, VA, 33o

Executive Committee Chairman