S
IND
amaritan
Vol. 10
ster’s a M d n a r Our G ssing Most Pre Question:
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The
NDENT ORDER E P E
Issue 2 • Grand Lodge Session 2018
Ben’s Beloved Bob Prospers During Better Days Page 12
Suspect?
The Of ficial Newsmagazine of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of New Jersey
! l a i c i f f O s ’ It
Official Visits (OV) are special occasions when the Grand Master and his Staff get to meet with all lodges. On occasion, the Grand Patriarch and Rebekah President may also be in attendance for joint OV’s. Photos on pages 2, 8, and 9 are of a few OV’s this past year.
Photos by man Pasto r Ro The Samaritan
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A message from
The Grand Master
My Term Is Over, But My Work Continues
M
y Brothers and Sisters of the Grand Jurisdiction of New Jersey, It is with a warm heart and a tear in my eye that I write this last and final greeting to you as your Grand Master. I am still humbled that anyone would entrust me to lead the best state in Odd Fellowship. I have so many memories etched in my mind from my travels along the way. I was able to participate with New Brunswick to start the year when they were in the 4th of July parade. It is a customary invitation to the new Grand Master participate with them and this indeed is a great honor, I encourage each lodge though to get out into their communities and do something like this. It gets you out into the community and they
~
I am still humbled
that anyone would entrust me to lead the best state in Odd Fellowship.
~
get to know you. We need to seriously need to look at membership as a whole. Folks we are hurting in many ways just as other organizations are. We need to broaden our horizons and as our Membership Committee has been working so hard on, let’s get our faces more out there on social media. I know this scares a lot of people but with the hard work of Beth Garvin on the NJ Odd Fellows page on FACEBOOK we are gaining a few members here and there but WE NEED TO DO MORE!!!! If anyone is unfamiliar with FACEBOOK our MEMBERSHIP/COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE will be sure to help all those in need of assistance. I also encourage people to help support the activities that the Family Activities committee plans for us throughout the year. This is also a great tool in getting people to see what we do and may get them interested in joining as well. I want to wish all incoming new officers a successful term and know I will always be here to lend a helping hand when needed. In Friendship, Love, & Truth, Ben Burger, Grand Master
Photo by Beth Obiedzinski-Garvin The NJ Grand Lodge Staff of 2017-2018: (l-r) Grand Warden Joe Lyons, Grand Representative Tom Calabrese, Grand Treasurer Frank Rodgers, Grand Instructor Steven Wooton, Grand Secretary Debbe McLelland, Deputy Grand Master Raul Rodriguez, Grand Master Ben Burger, Grand Herald Ramón Cartageña, Grand Guardian Belgica Cartageña, Grand Marshal Manny Sosa, and Grand Conductor Bob Cassidy.
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10
Welcome to
The Samaritan The Official Magazine of the New Jersey Grand Lodge of Independent Order of Odd Fellowship.
Gifts of Odd Fellowship
Please send any and all IOOF related news with any identifying info to ioof_nj@comcast.net This is YOUR magazine so any comments or suggestions are always welcome, too!
Our success depends on YOU! .O I.O .F.
International
PRESS Association
Promoting Odd Fellowship through Positive Communication
Beth Obiedzinski-Garvin Editor/Art Director
Pastor Roman Photographer
Jim Stiles
24
A Grand Opening
Proofreader
Steven Wooton Fact Checker
Cover Photo: Whodunnit? Photo Montage & Photos by Beth Obiedzinski-Garvin
12  
IOOF Mystery:
OF
INDE
DENT ORDER PEN
WHODUNNIT?
Debbe McClelland Grand Secretary
4527 Rt. 130 South Burlington, NJ 08016
United States of America oddfellows22@comcast.net
609-386-0025 or 609-519-8504 GRAND LODGE MEETINGS First Saturday of each month at 8:30 am
Grand Master Message............................................ 3 Grand Patriarch Message........................................ 6 Incoming Grand Master Message.......................... 20 Incoming Grand Matriarch Message..................... 21 Thank You IOOF.................................................... 14 Pilgrimage 2018.................................................... 18 Events.................................................................... 26 Hire An Odd Fellow.............................................. 27 The Samaritan
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Celebrate!
185 Years
of Friendship, Love & Truth
T
he birth of Odd Fellowship in this country took place on the 26th of April 1819 but it wasn’t until August 3, 1833 that the Grand Lodge of New Jersey was instituted, while Rutherford Lodge No. 240 dates its existence from the 17th of October 1893. In 1891-92 certain residents of this borough, members of the order but away from home lodges, conceived the ide of forming a subordinate lodge here
start with. While the growth of the order here has been slow, it has been sure, the present membership about eighty-five.
OF
to which they might attach themselves, thus securing the benefits of a lodge home, so dear to every member of the order. The following seventeen mem-
IND E
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being
The lodge is sustained by the payment by each member of $8.00 per year dues, the member receiving in case of sickness the sum of $5.00 per week, and in case of death his beneficiary is entitled to $100.00 funeral benefits, and in case
bers of the lodge were the main ones instrumental in the organization of the order in this town: James Leyland, Charles T. Johnsons, WM. J. Singerland, George K. Thomas, Julius Jaeger, Horatio N. Fish, David R. MacNeil, John J. Dupuy, C. Henry Kotzenberg, William Henkelman, George Ruckstuhl, James H. Smith, Rensselaer Furman, William W. Butler, Joseph W. Beebe, William Gibson, Frank Spitz. Forty-five members were taken in on the night of the institution, making a total of sixty-two members to
of a member’s wife he receives $50.00. The order in this state has increased from 51 members in 1833 to about 30, 000 in 1897, while member ship in the country at the present time is nearly 700,000. The amount expended for relief of distressed brothers in this State for 1897 has been nearly $150,000. ~ James M. Van Valen History of Bergen County, New Jersey, pgs. 443-444
175 Years of Faith, Hope, & Charity
T
he first Encampment in New Jersey was Industry Lodge No. 1 located in the City of Paterson and instituted on July 4, 1833 by Grand Sire Thomas Wildey. The Right Worthy Grand Encampment of New Jersey was instituted on May 11, 1843 in the City of Newark, however the location of the Grand Encampment was designated to be at the state Capitol, the City of Trenton. ~ Steve Wooton, PGP, 2009-10
Congratulations, New Jersey! ©2018 o b i e.
www.ioof nj.org • www.facebook.com/IOOFNJ/ The Samaritan
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A MEssage from
The Grand Patriarch
A
Calm And Unruffled On The Surface...
s my term as Grand Patriarch comes to a close I recall my objectives I chose at the start. The main goal of my program was to to work together with Grand Master Ben Burger and Rebekah President Wanda Burns to increase membership in all the branches of the Order. My charity of choice for this year was Breast Cancer Research (BCR). The
My wife Maritza and I had the privilege of traveling to Connecticut on October 28, 2017 to attend the Testimonial Dinner of our Sovereign Grand Master, the Honorable brother, John Miller, Sr. It was a great experience where I got to meet many dignitaries such as a couple of PSGMs, PPRAs, GRSGLs — brothers and sisters from all over the United States and Cana-
Heads of the order from left to right: Grand Master Ben Burger, Rebekah Assembly President Wanda Burns, and Grand Patriarch Manny Sosa.
reason I chose BCR is because October 26, 2009 I lost my sister Susana Macias to breast cancer. She was only 46 years old. RIP my dear sister Susana — I will always love you and miss you. The job of Grand Patriarch and running the Grand Encampment (GE) may look easy, but I assure you the job requires hard work, dedication, and a lot of help from my staff. My responsibilities include, but are not limited to: traveling to many jurisdictions, hours on the phone, and countless typed letters. Even with a secretary the work can be overwhelming. I like to be involved in all the branches of the Order, which includes the affairs of the Encampments, the Rebekahs, the Matriarchs, the LEA’s, the Odd Fellows Lodges and the Grand Bodies of these branches. I will now share a few of the experiences that I had during my year. I started by traveling to the GL Picnic in July 2017. Then, in September, I traveled to Burlington NJ to the Reorganization Meeting followed by attending GL meetings once a month. On October 12th and 13th, I traveled to Ocean City to participate with, the Grand Master together in the Installation of our Rebekah Assembly President Wanda (Peanut) Burns and her staff. It was a wonderful ceremony! We received a wonderful welcome by the brothers and sisters that were present and the Hotel staff.
da. We had various conversations about the way different lodges functioned, how lodges could better accommodate their members, getting members to attend Sessions, and some general ideas on improving how the Order operates. One thing we all have in common, we follow the ritual of our Order that is based on expressing Friendship, Love, and Truth. On November 12, 2017 I attended the Testimonial Dinner of our Grand Master Benjamin Burger and the President of the Rebekah Assembly Wanda (Peanut) Burns. It was a wonderful event where Odd Fellows, Patriarchs, Matriarchs, and Rebekahs united and spent time conversing and discussing how we need to increase membership because all lodges are feeling the impact of decreased membership. We had many good moments full of laughter as well as of sadness when we remembered all the brothers and sisters that have passed to a better place. We do have happy moments but also sad ones too. But that’s when you encourage yourself and others to do everything possible to spend time with your family, to help everyone in any way that you can, kiss and hug your loves ones every time possible, and tell them you love them. We never know when it’s going to be the last time we do something or see someone. Life is too short so try to make the best of it,
and for that I recommend everyone to come aboard our fraternal bus! When you join any of our branches you will be well compensated by realizing what you were missing all these years. As we spread the word, remind those you meet that the only requirement of you is to believe in a Supreme Being and reach out to help the ones less fortunate. Never lose your patience or your temper. I was fortunate to go to the Mid Atlantic States Conclave held in Williamsburg, VA on March 23rd to the 25th. What a great trip! We spent three beautiful fun filled days in a warm atmosphere of fraternity. We got to see some great acts and participate in a really funny show. (Editors note: Please check out the IOOJ NJ Facebook page post on March 24, 2018 to see NJ’s very own Dancing Rebekahs, Raulita and Benita, feather boas and all!). I would like to take this opportunity to thank Raul Rodríguez for all his help during this year, and in the past and for all the traveling we have done together. We have developed a very good friendship like real brothers. I have developed a personal trust with him and really appreciate his help. It’s
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an honor and a pleasure to know you Raúl, and I thank you and your family. On November 14th we celebrated Thanksgiving in my Lodge Sánchez Moya. We enjoy a warm dinner where we invite all lodges and open the doors to our neighbors who are less fortunate than us. During this celebration we give thanks, meet new people, and spend time with our families as we pray for a good upcoming year. All this is done completely free of charge. On November 17th, 18th and 19th I travel to Delaware where I was invited to attend the Installations of the Grand Master, Grand Patriarch and Rebekah Assembly President. Once again, it was a very good experience in the warmth of a fraternal environment. On a more personal note, I had the opportunity of helping a couple of my wife, Maritza’s students. Maritza is a Teacher of the Handicapped/Special Needs and a couple of her students are experiencing serious financial difficulties. As GP and with the help of the NJ GL, I was very fortunate to receive a lot of help for these students. One student Miguel, 19 years old, suffers from Spina Bifida and can only watch the other kids play from his 3rd floor window where he resides. We were able to buy him a Nintendo game, some games and a 32” flat panel TV so he can at least entertain himself a couple of hours a day. Another student, a 16 year old girl named Yarivellee, has been the cook and caretaker of the house since she was six years old when her mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Yarivellee’s mom has had two brain surgeries
Here I am with some brothers having a discussion before a meeting begins. Below, right, is my lovely wife Martiza with me as a GL Staff Minion.
and is now legally blind. Despite all of these tragedies, this heroic young lady is an A+ student and never misses a day of school. This past March, their home burned down and Yarivellee was able to help her Mother and sister get to safety in the middle of the night thanks to early alarms. Yarivellee is a real hero and has my utmost respect. She deserves all the help we can give. I couldn’t sit by and allow this to happen so I was both proud and grateful that the GL and GE were able to give financial assistance because they were homeless. Hopefully, Yarivellee will not drop out of school even though she wants to so she can help her family financially. This is only a glimpse as to why I am so proud of what I have accomplished as a Grand Patriarch. I feel privileged having such a great staff by myside. It has been an honor holding the position of Grand Patriarch, and once again I am expressing my respect and gratitude to Benjamin Burger our Grand Master, and to Wanda (Peanut) Burns our President of the Rebekah Assembly. We have worked closely together to serve in the three Grand Bodies of the Order as one. I’d like to express my most sincere gratitude to all my Staff, to the Grand Lodge, Rebekahs, Matriarchs, LEA’s and Canton. To my Grand Secretary Brother Steve Wooton and the Grand Lodge Secretary Sister Debbe McClelland. I don’t have words to express how grateful I feel for all the help and support you gave me including answering all the phone calls that I made to you both (and always got an answer to my question) and for all those emails that you forwarded for me — THANK YOU BOTH from the bottom of my heart. I also served as the Grand Marshall of the Grand Lodge, and I’m the treasurer of Sánchez Moya No. 282 my home lodge. I would like to let all the brothers and sisters from my lodge know how grateful I am for their support since I became a member of the lodge. Especially when they rode on a bus for two and half hours to Atlan-
tic City last year and accompanied me when I became Grand Patriarch. I know for a fact that this, trip was not an easy day for some of my brothers, and sisters, it was a sacrifice since they are not young anymore. I will never forget that day and for that they will always have my love and respect. Now my best for last, to my wife Maritza. Thank you for your patience and help during this year, because I was out of my house so many days due to all the traveling, meetings, and visitations that I was involved with. Sometimes I would come home, and she would ask, “Are you going to unpack or do you have another trip on your calendar?” but now my term is coming to an end, temporarily. Honey, I thank you for your love, your understanding, and for being part of my life as my wife and best friend for so many years. I love you. God bless you. To the incoming Grand Matriarch Beth Obiedzinski-Garvin, I hope you have a great year coming your way. You can count on me for any assistance that you may need.
~
Come aboard our fraternal bus!
In Faith, Hope, & Charity, Manny Sosa, Grand Patriarch 2017-2018
~ Photos by Beth O.Garvin and Pastor Roman
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Official Visits
Photos by or Beth & Past The Samaritan
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Official Visits
Photos by Beth & Past or The Samaritan
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n Meet Mega & Toni...
to bbyy hooto Ph in rvin insskki-i-GGaarv ieddzzin Beth Obie
work because of the care involved. I for one am unable to work for that reason as well as being disabled from a fall. You find yourself looking for ways to survive, People that can help, and that’s when you reach out to organizations such as the ECF. It was back in 2015 when I first contacted them. From the moment that I reached out they were there for me. Now three years later and they continue to walk this journey by my side. One of the first things they did was send a case worker out to meet us and fill out some paperwork, to assess our situation and our needs. They told me that they could help by supplying food monthly for a full year. Bags of nonperishable items to help sustain my family. They also have a wonderful birthday bag program where they make sure that not only the sick child but the siblings as
...Gifts of Odd Fellowship
O
ne of the gifts of Odd Fellowship(believe me there are many) is that I get to meet and hang out with stoic people of all ages from all walks of life. Some are volunteers, some are employess, some are beneficiaries, some are friends or family members, and some are members of our Order. I first met Megan at the Northern Emmanuel Cancer Foundation for Children Christmas Party in 2016. When she was done dancing with Juggles the Clown (pictured above), we got to dance, talk, and laugh (lots of laughs) about everything silly going on around us. I didn’t get to attend the North’s party in 2017 so I was thrilled when I got to reconnect with Megan at the ECF Crystal Gala this past February. As usual she was full of life and brought a smile to every face in the ball room. She was the star of the evening so I didn’t get to hang with her for too long but I did have the pleasure of meeting her family and hear the following speech from her Mom, Toni. No matter what you do today, please take the time to read Toni’s heartfelt words and know that what you do for others, no matter
how big or how small, really, really matters. ~Beth Obiedzinski-Garvin Good evening, It is truly an honor to be here tonight, and to have the opportunity to speak on behalf of the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation for Children (ECF). You’ve already met Megan but I am a single mother of three beautiful girls. Victoria 13, Megan 11, and Mackenzie nine. Megan was diagnosed in September 2009 at just three years old with an inoperable brain tumor. She also has seizure disorder and she is legally blind due to nerve damage. Because the tumor is recurring she has endured 4 rounds of chemotherapy so far. As you can imagine, this is a very difficult situation. The Cancer diagnosis is devastating. You fear for your child’s life. Each day unsure of what it will hold. When I first heard those words I felt like my whole world had crashed to a halt. I have learned so much though through all of this. First, I learned how strong my child really is. How strong ALL of these children are. They are fighters and they are amazing. I have learned how precious life really is.
Because of Megan I find that I cherish every day. Say I love you, hold tight to every hug, and memorize every smile, for tomorrow is unknown. And I have seen first hand an outpouring of love and support that I never dreamed possible. As you embark on this journey filled with doctor visits, chemo appointments, MRIs, and hospital stays, you find that there are so many more issues than just the illness. Of course one of these things is the emotional strain. You feel stressed and exhausted. You also encounter a large financial strain. The cost of gas, food, extra bills that seem to add up right before your eyes . So many people are unable to
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well receive a gift for their birthday including all the supplies needed to make a nice party. At Christmas they have us fill out Wish list. And then they have donors that take that list and make sure that the family has the most beautiful Christmas. I can honestly say that without the Wishlist gifts that I don’t know how I would manage to have any presents for them under the tree. It is truly a blessing beyond words. Also at both thanksgiving and Christmas they make sure that you have everything you need to make a beautiful holiday meal. They throw an amazing Christmas party so that we can just go and have fun, celebrate the holiday, and get
a chance to STOP thinking about the illness and instead just laugh and smile enjoying the company of friends that are dealing with the same issues. ECF will also do their best to supply financial assistance as much as they are able to. My family needed to move in April of 2017 and they provided some necessary assistance in order to help us get rent paid and settle back in. I could not have accomplished that without their help. And just two weeks ago I reached out to them once again, apologizing for having to ask, but in need of assistance in order to pay my gas bill. They did not hesitate, not even for a moment. The response to me was; I’m sure we can help. They never make you feel bad or tell you that you ask for too much. They help if they are able. They have even supplied gas cards and store cards to make things easier. I stand here this evening thankful for ECF not just because of the help that I’ve received but because they have become like extended family to me. The caseworkers don’t just stop after the first visit. They continue to check on you to make sure that they are aware of how you are doing. They remind you that they are there
Photos by Melanie Giblin
~
My family is just one of many. The amount of children diagnosed with cancer on a regular basis is staggering.
for you and along with all the other support you feel emotional support as well. Trust me when I tell you that sometimes the emotional support is the most important. In conclusion I would like for you to remember this. ECF cannot do this without your help. When you give to them they are able to help us. Sometimes the only way that we survive is through the outside help that we receive. My family is just one of many. The amount of children diagnosed with cancer on a regular basis is staggering. We are fighting to save their lives, fighting to stay strong, not always the easiest task. I ask that you remember my words, remember my daughter, re-
~
The Samaritan
member my whole family. WE are who get helped by your generosity. I am beyond thankful for all that ECF does for families like mine. I know that they would love to do so much more. New families reach out to them all the time and they would never turn them away. I am also grateful to all of you; for coming this evening, for listening to my story, for any help or donations that keep giving the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation the ability to continue on their mission. They are amaz-
11
ing people with loving hearts and the drive and desire to do so much good. It is truly a blessing to not have to fight this fight alone. On behalf of ECF and all the ECF families I Thank you and God bless you all! ~Toni, ECF Gala 2018 Do you have a story to share or know someone who has a story that should be told? We’d love to hear from you! Please contact us at ioof_nj@comcast.net with your name, phone number, email, and idea. What are you waiting for?
Breaking Bob
I
t was a harrowing year for GM Ben Burger as his pal Bob was repeatedly kidnapped by members of his trusted Staff. Ransom payments came to a screeching halt when Bob’s broken body arrived at GL in a box. GM Ben replaced Bob with Kevin so he could keep up his fundraising. There were numerous suspects in the ‘Bob Breaking’ but it was obivious to everyone who the culprit was once Kevin arrived...
R I P
Bob the Minion traveled the coast, Bob the Minion went farther than most. Bob was kidnapped and fell with a crash! Then came Kevin who made more cash!
d e s o l C e Cas
I just couldn’t take it anymore! Bob was trying to take my place as DGM and the Bus Driver. Everyone knows Minions can’t drive! What? Kevin?
KEVIN WHO???
guilty ! The Samaritan
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OF
IND E
DENT ORDER PEN
Grand Lodge Statewide Picnic
Saturday, July 28, 2018 10am - 4 pm Thompson Park Forsgate Drive Jamesburg,NJ
Š2018
obie.
Turnpike Exit 8A or Route 130 to 32 East Park is on the Right www.co.middlesex.nj.us/parksrecreation/thompson.asp
Games, Entertainment, Rafes, Hot Dogs, Hamburgers, Salads, Watermelon, Soda, & Water provided by the Grand Lodge For more info: Ben Burger at 609.614.6578 or email bb.burger1970@gmail.com The Samaritan
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These letters represent a small yet diverse sampling of the the letters that the IOOF NJ receives throughout the year thanking us for our help.
You’re very welcome. 017
4. 2 October 2
From Natural Disasters...
No. 6 ws Lodge Odd Fello Road ry u b Cran VFW, 485 8816 0 . 6, swick, NJ Lodge No East Brun Brunswick w e N f o ould like to nermbers rs and Me e r, River, I w ce te h ffi g O u r a a d e e has so g r D fe.and he your lodg e s nate e n u 'K o n ti O a fo ie n n ancial do iend, Jess gic and u n a fr fi tr y ed e e m th f se r o I r , greate ne On behalf eartfelt gratitude fo isis worker myself a family in Golf fy cr h ti a y n e s m A id ss t y. s o expre is famil is year' could n ould be th d the amount vided to th ith that said, I still at River w ously pro W an th s y. r e a a ir d e u h q ry e to ev unately at River re so happy th s situations a re ge. Unfort w a I ca . l n a 's a ic fe m d e e e to roce'K m y f il O o ries and p mount r the fam than the elming fo ite numerous surge d stroke, ient. The a h p ci rw re e v g o n Outi Desp s, is so ma an that entail s to be in question. e by her neuro trau volved of money ns have in ue on io n d ti ss e n g cu a co is m d h a lt d r body st a e e e te h h la th s s a y e r' , d h e Riv t to reme ear future g to llenges. T a p n e m ch e th w tt e a in n ll r tinuin tic sku dures to encounte a prosthe mily is con pes tinues to ill require ne. The fa o w y ca, in ho b River con e e d th sh re t t u a a ct th th s ru y it m st il a re ib te l l a ss the po er origin rosurgica to reject h al and neu healthy. continues the best craniofaci r safe and e iv , R p e e h k it w to River had lt g consu methin diagnosis so l a d in n ly fi g l n ri il o o w om the e same that they ostosis, th uld arise fr s Craniosyn ns that co r lodge ha o h u ti it w ca yo li t d p a il m th ch l co a fu ed e k to ss n th r a re e s witness am so th r has exp As a moth children. I mily. River's mothe f dens me to o d se p e sa u th ly ro p g to e it de r this fa vailable lp from a t option a burdens fo g it is to receive he sity. treatmen me of the n ch genero zi so su a y se m b a a e d w e o to h lm le e d b h a re a been has sh nd overw tude and touched a in your deep grati is deeply y il m fa keep her e . Th u to please strangers yo sk a I urney, rd in her jo ves forwa o m r e iv R As rs. and praye thoughts nks,
Many tha
errace
F Kerry
ace Kerry Ferr
And The Horrors Of Healthcare...
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To the Memory Of Loved Ones...
January 20, 20
18
NJ Independen t Order of the Odd Fellows Lo c/o Mr. James dge No. 213 Smith Dear Mr. Smith
and Generous
Members of th e Independen t Order of Odd On behalf of At Fellows: lantiCare Regi onal Medical Ce gifts of holiday nter and its Fo presents for ou undation, than r pediatric patie donations to ou k you for your nts. We are so r youngest and recent grateful for thes most vulnerab difference for e most genero le patients. At those we are fo us AtlantiCare, w rtunate enough provided ensu e strive to mak to serve. The gi red out ability ea fts that your gr to do just that oup so genero . usly Each year our Stanley M. Gros sman Center fo most vulnerab r Pediatrics sees le of times. Thro hundreds of yo ugh your gifts that spread th uth during thei , your group br roughout our r ought about a entire campus. renewed spirit of joy We are so grat eful for partne rs like you, who health and he join us in carryi aling to all —in ng forth our m cluding the ho as much as we ission to deliver liday season! Th do. ank you for ca ring for our pa tients With continue d gratitude,
Samantha Kil
ey
Samanatha Kile y, MPH, MBA Executive Dire ctor
We are ful! so grate
And The Smiles Of Children...
Thank You IOOF NJ! The Samaritan
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Hey, New Jersey Odd Fellows! Lookin’ for some Family fun? Your extraordinary NJ IOOF Family Activities committee is hosting an extraordinary
Trenton Thunder Bull Pen Picnic! INDEP E
F
NT ORDER O NDE
July 15, 2018 1 pm
Only $28.00 pp. Enjoy the game from a table in the private picnic areas, located above the visiting team bullpen. You will have access to a delicious buffet-style 90-minute picnic Menu: All beef hot dogs with sauerkraut, Hamburgers/Cheeseburgers/Veggie Burgers, Lettuce/Tomato/Onion Tray, Baked BBQ Chicken, Home-Style Potato Salad, Garden Salad with dressings, BBQ Baked Beans, Watermelon Wedges, Ripple Chips, Thin Pretzels & Cookies. Water & Fountain sodas are complimentary for 90 minutes, ending one hour into the game. Other beverages are available for purchase throughout the game.
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INDE P
ENT ORDER END
OF
Arm & Hammer Park, Trenton, NJ
INDE P
ENT ORDER END
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Get a hold of Tom today (tomz59@aol.com) & let’s get this over with, there’s a Chilidog with my name on it back in the dugout!
©2018 obie.
NJ independent order of odd fellows
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What's so Odd About Helping Others? www.facebook.com/IOOFNJ/ • www.facebook.com/unionlodge213/
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Pilgrimage to the tomb of
The unknown Soldier
Odd Fellows Annual Trek To Arlington
The IOOF pilgrimage is a solemn ceremony that we have named “The Pilgrimage to the Tomb”. It is the result of a privilege that was afforded to the Odd Fellows and Rebekahs by our thirty-second Prresident o f the United States and an Odd Fellow, Franklin D. Roosevelt who was in the White House from 19331945. June 17, 1934 was the first date for the Odd Fellow Pilgrimage. The purpose of this Pilgrimage was not only to honor the Unknown Soldier and the Nation’s War Dead, but also the members of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows who had made the supreme sacrifice in World War I. Lodges from Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia participated in this first Pilgrimage. One year later, New Jersey and Delaware joined; almost 1,000 members of the Order were present. Credit for the Pilgrimage idea goes to Charles Lampe, who was Grand Master of the District of Columbia. On July 7, 1940, the Grand Sire, on behalf of IOOF presented to the Unknown Soldier the Grand Decoration of Chivalry, the highest decoration be-
stowed upon an Odd Fellow. This Jewel, received by the Department of Army, is prominently displayed in the Hall of Trophies. On May 3, 1959 the Sovereign Grand Master presented two more Grand Decoration of Chivalry Jewels to the Army – one for the Unknown Soldier of World War II and the other for the Unknown Soldier of the Korean Conflict. Both Jewels were placed in the Hall of Trophies. Growth of this tradition was tremendous. Finally, a resolution was adopted at the 1954 Sovereign Grand Lodge Session that sponsorship be assumed by The Sovereign Grand Lodge and that each Sovereign Grand Master appoint the General Chairman. Previously, it had been the custom for the Department Commander of the Patriarchs Militant of the District of Columbia to serve as chairman of the Pilgrimage. This ceremony of Remembrance for those who have given their lives to preserve the “American way of life” enshrines the principles of Odd Fellowship: Friendship, Love and Truth. It is indeed an honor to be a part of this pilgrimage. ~ Courtesy Frede Ende Lodge No. 87 • Greenville, TX
Photos by Vicki Burger and Norm Burns The Samaritan
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The 2018 Annual Communication of The Sovereign Grand Lodge Session Independent Order of Odd Fellows commemorating the founding of Odd Fellowship on the North American Continent will be held in Baltimore, Maryland August 20 - 23, 2018
he Independent Order of Odd Fellows was founded on the North American Continent in Baltimore, Maryland, on April 26, 1819 when Thomas Wildey and four members of the Order from England instituted Washington Lodge No. 1. This lodge received its charter from Manchester Unity of Odd Fellows in England. At that time, the city was suffering
"Visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead, and educate the orphans." ~IOOF SGL of North America,’13
It’s not too late to be a part of this once in a lifetime celebration... For more info visit: www.ioof.org or contact your Lodge Secretary.
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©2018 obie./photo: burkard
both a yellow fever epidemic and mass unemployment so they dedicated the organization to
A Message from the
Incoming Grand master
Know Who You Are And Why You Are
G
reetings To all my Brothers and Sisters, I would like to thank you for electing me as your Grand Master. As you all know every Grand Master has a project and my project this year is Education. In order to understand why I chose Education as my project, let me tell you a little about myself. I became an Odd Fellow in 2002 after I got married to Adis Roman who was the one that introduced me to Odd Fellowship. I was an active member but due to my work schedule, there were many times that I was unable to participate in lodge functions. In 2010 my parents passed, and I lost my job; I was on bed rest due to hip problems, all of which caused me to go in to a deep depression. I was seeing a psychiatrist and after several sessions she asked, “Raul, what do you do beside work?” I informed her that the only other thing I was involved in was the Odd Fellows. She then asked me, “What was that and how often did I go to Odd Fellows activities?” I responded, “Once a week sometimes twice.” She then asked me if I could become more involved to keep myself occupied and I told her yes. She spoke to my wife and my career in Odd Fellowship began; I started going to different lodge in different jurisdictions and the more I learned the more I wanted to be
2018-2019 Grand Lodge Officers Grand Master Raul Rodriguez Deputy Grand Master Joseph Lyons Grand Warden Manuel Sosa Grand Secretary Debbe McClelland Grand Treasurer Frank Rodgers Grand Representive Tom Calabrese Grand Chaplin Walter Norris Grand Marshall Robert Cassidy Grand Conductor Belgica Cartagena Grand Guardian Ramón Cartagena Grand Herald Beth Obiedzinski-Garvin Asst. Grand Secretary Raul Rodriguez Asst. Grand Treasurer Brian SimmonsGrand Instructor Steven Wooton Advisory Office Ben Burger
~
I believe to be able to explain
what an Odd Fellow is you need to know
why you are one, knowing why you are one helps you to be able to explain to someone what an Odd Fellow is.
involved. I wanted to be involved so much it was to the point that I joined the Grand Lodge of New Jersey (GLNJ), ran the chairs, became the Assistant Secretary of the Grand Lodge, and have now worked my way to Grand Master. So, what does this have to do with education? I believe to be able to explain what an Odd Fellow is you need to know why you are one, knowing why you are one helps you to be able to explain to someone what an Odd Fellow is. We all know who the Independent Order of Oddfellows are; we know that Friendship, Love and Truth are our principles, we all know why we joined this order, and for me it has become so much more. I’m grateful to say; with the help of my brothers and sisters of the Odd Fellows I was able to overcome my depression.
~
It was during this time my daughter Maritza started high school and started working for a nonprofit organization called New City Kids. New City Kids is an after-school program which hires high school students to tutor elementary school children. New City Kids mission is twofold; 1) teach high school students work ethics and prepare them for college or vocational schools and 2) provide after school assistance with homework and other activities for inner city elementary school children. Using New City Kids and my own personal experience as an example, I would like to encourage my brothers and sisters to express their feeling about Odd Fellowship so that we can learn from each other and teach others what Odd Fellows are all about. In Friendship, Love, and Truth, Raul Rodriguez Grand Master (elect)
www.newcitykids.org New City Kids aims to draw children into hope by developing in them skills, talents, and desires for their future. By surrounding them with a community of love and development, we strive to set youth on a path of transformation that will carry them forward for the rest of their lives. The Samaritan
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x
A MEssage from the
Incoming Grand Patriarch Matriarch
First For the 175th NJ Grand Encampment
I
’d like to welcome you to my term as Grand Matriarch of the Grand Encampment of New Jersey (GENJ) for 2018-2019. The Encampment is the spiritual branch of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of which any Third Degree Odd Fellow may apply. Upon being accepted, the candidate must proceed with Encampment Degree work. What are the Encampment Degrees? The Patriarchal Degree, which is presented to the candidates for their consideration in such matters as dealing with obvious transparent honesty; domestic purity; and both giving as well as receiving genuine hospitality. This degree also reminds the Candidates of their faith and trust in a Supreme Being, duties to strangers, and our everlasting obligation, as Odd Fellows, to be ever ready to withstand an examination as being true and honest person. The Golden Rule Degree, which is presented to the candidates for their consideration in giving conscience they use for themselves to others in equal amounts, regardless of their race or creed or the manners in which they are portrayed. The Royal Purple Degree, which is presented to the candidates for their consideration and interest in the development of furthuring cultural values intended to typify the journey of life and ways of using a persons own energies to overcome and to avoid the pitfalls of life. This is all part of a process that encourages us to learn as we regularly attend Encampment meetings, ask for assistance from our mentors, and humbly pass on what we practice. My interest in the Encampment stems from my continuous search to gain and improve my spiritual knowledge. It is my hope that I can attain and project honesty, open-mindedness, and a willingness to be a humble servant, not only within the Order but wherever I go. My role as Grand Matriarch is simply to serve with friendship, love, and truth, coupled with a large dose of faith, hope, and charity. One of the honors, as Grand Matriarch, is to select and financially assist a charity of my choice. I wanted to connect our members on a
~
...Your duties well performed
will make others ambitious to emulate or
excel you. Whatever you do, let it be done cheerfully, promptly, and effectively. ~page 164, Encampment Charge
spiritual plane, transcend religion, and be able to unite our established charities with a new partnership opportunity. I believe my choice, The Pinelands Preservation Alliance (PPA), exemplifies those ideas. The PPA is proactive both in education and preserving New Jersey’s environment. We will be scheduling an Odd Fellow Day in the future but until then, please take the time to visit www.pinelandsalliance.org . There isn’t enough space in this issue to accurately describe this amazing organization’s rich history and work in New Jersey. My hope is that the GENJ and the PPA build a lasting relationship that survives long past my term as Grand Matriarch. On June 20, 2018, during the 175th year of the GENJ my term begins with the honor of being the first Grand Matriarch of New Jersey. There are many people who have been a part of my journey but there are three who I’d like to thank for their encouragement as I begin this next chapter in the GENJ. They are: PGP Raul Rodriguez, for having the faith in my appointment; GP Manny Sosa for sharing his hope with me; PGP Steve Woo-
The PPA is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to saving the Pinelands of New Jersey. We use advocacy and education to involve the public and persuade the government to protect the natural and cultural resources of this extraordinary region. We seek to improve these and other environmental laws to better protect the Pinelands’ natural and historic resources. www.pinelandsalliance.org The Samaritan
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~
ton for his charity in both his demeanor and quick response time with my endless requests. Thank you gentlemen! Now it’s time for this lady to get to work. And on a lighter note, anyone (Odd Fellow or not) who refers to me or calls me Grand Patriarch, owes $5. to my charity fund, beginning…right…now. In Faith, Hope, and Charity, Beth Obiedzinski-Garvin Grand Matriarch (elect)
PLEASE PRINT or TYPE AND RETURN THIS FORM AS SOON AS NEW MEMBERS ARE ADMITTED
NEW MEMBER
The SGL - IARA Membership Program
canton noun, can•ton I /’kan,tän/ Date Admitted _______________________
SPONSOR of NEW MEMBER
Sponsor Name ____________________________________________ New Member’s Lodge ______________________________________ Lodge Secretary Name______________________________________
Ridgely Canton No. 5
Bro. ___ Sis. ___
Name ___________________________________________________
Middle_________________________________________________ French, from Italian cantone, Address from canto corner, from Latin canthus iron tire City ____________________________________________________
Address _________________________________________________
State/Province ____________________________________________
Burlington Lodge
City ____________________________________________________ 4527 Route 130 South
Postal/Zip Code First ___________________________________________ Known Use: 1522
Burlington, NJ 08016
State/Province ____________________________________________
_______________________________________ The Date of Birth: M/D/Y Canton, also known as the Patriarch Militants, is the highest branch in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Postal/Zip Code ___________________________________________ E-mail: Next meeting: Membership is open to an Encampment Member Wednesday Phone: who has attained the Royal Purple Degree. August 29th at 7:30 pm The name Patriarchs Militant conveys the two-fold idea of peace and soldierly valor. This branch is semi-military in character The SGL - IARA Membership Program Interested? and formed solely for the purposes of chivalric display. SPONSOR of NEW MEMBER Members are admirably fulfilling our mission through the many Please contact dedication ceremoniesDate Admitted such as The _______________________ Pilgrimage to the Tomb of TheBro. ___ Sis. ___ Unknowns Sponsor Name ____________________________________________ Steve Wooton, Adjutant Name ___________________________________________________ held annually at Arlington National Cemetary in Arlington, Virginia. New Member’s Lodge ______________________________________ wooton335@comcast.net Address__________________________________________________
NEW MEMBER
856.217.6382 Lodge Secretary Name ______________________________________
City_____________________________________________________
Address _________________________________________________
State/Province_____________________________________________
City ____________________________________________________
Postal/Zip Code ___________________________________________
State/Province ____________________________________________
Date of Birth: M/D/Y _______________________________________
Please file this information as soon as New Members are admitted. E-mail: Phone: This Form Courtesy of SGL/IARA Membership.
Postal/Zip Code ___________________________________________
NEW MEMBER
The SGL - IARA Membership Program
SPONSOR of NEW MEMBER
Date Admitted _______________________
Sponsor Name ____________________________________________
Bro. ___ Sis. ___
Name ___________________________________________________
New Member’s Lodge ______________________________________
Address __________________________________________________
Lodge Secretary Name ______________________________________
City_____________________________________________________
Address _________________________________________________
State/Province_____________________________________________
City ____________________________________________________
Postal/Zip Code ___________________________________________
State/Province ____________________________________________
Date of Birth: M/D/Y _______________________________________ E-mail:
Postal/Zip Code ___________________________________________
Phone:
MAIL, FAX, E-mail TO: 22 - I.O.O.F. News — Vol. 18, Issue 2
Attn: I.O.O.F. The SGL / IARA MEMBERSHIP 422 Trade Street Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27101-2830 Fax: 1-336-722-7317 Email: sgldataentry@ioof.org
The Samaritan
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IOOF Gl of New Jersey
NEW MEMBERS Alive and ready
25
to do good stuff and have some fun
$
INDE
OF
DENT ORDER PEN
00 A HEAD
THAT’S RIGHT PARD’NER– $25. BUCKS FOR EVERY NEW MEMBER YOU SIGN UP IN FLT!
FOR INFO CONTACT YOUR LODGE SECRETARY OR THE GRAND MINION OF NJ
Notify nearest ioof Lodge ©2018 obie. The Samaritan
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The minute most people spot a camera in their immediate vicinity, they either look away or walk away. This was NEVER the case with Ben. No matter the event, Ben would see me, he’d smile, and assume the position. I thought I’d share some of my more humorous photos of him because there’s alot of serious work that we deal with as Odd Fellows. Thank you for your hard work and dedication, Ben. But most of all, thank you for the laughter over the years, even when it seemed like the work would never get done. ~Beth Obiedzinski-Garvin
The Samaritan
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Fun by Ben Photos by Beth
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Join Us!
3 September 17: New Brunswick Lodge No. 6 Annual Charity Golf Outing, Peddie Golf Course. Contact Tom at Tomz59@aol.com.
The GL of the IOOF NJ and it’s respective lodges, promotes and hosts many events throughout New Jersey and the country. The following list is representative of some but not all activities, fundraisers, and assorted Odd events that we’d love for you to attend.
3 Fifth Wednesday of the Month: Ridgely Canton No. 5, Burlington Lodge, 4527 Rt. 130 South, Burlington, NJ 08016. Please contact Steve at wooton335@comcast.net or 856-217-6382.
2018
September 2018 November 2018
3 November 10: Union Lodge No. 213 Beef & Beer, Farmington, NJ, Contact Wayne Dilks 609-927-8362
Ongoing 2018
And while you’re at it, bring a friend!
For up to date announcements and events:
www.facebook.com/IOOFNJ/
July 2018
3 July 4: 1831 1st Encampment Industry Lodge No. 1, Paterson, NJ 3 July 28: NJ Grand Lodge Family Picnic, Thompson Park, Forsgate Dr., Jamesburg, NJ. Contact Ben Burger at 609-614-6578.
August 2018
Deadline for the
The
3 August 3: GL NJ instituted on this day in 1833, 185 YEARS! 3 August 4: French Lodge No. 89 Peach & Pancake Breakfast (below) 3 August 20-23: Sovereign Grand Lodge Session, Baltimore, MD be- ginning 200 years of IOOF in North America! Visit www.ioof.org for all info about events, meetings, etc.
Samaritan
October 6, 2018
Tickets available at the door: 7am-11 am
$10. for adults
$7. for kids 12 & under
F
L
T
Pancakes, eggs, sausage, bacon, peachess, & other breakfast delights!
Richwood Academy
Corner of Lambs Road & Rte 322
©2018 obie.
ALL YOU CAN EAT!
Richwood, NJ 08074
(Between Glassboro & Mullica Hill)
For information call Bill Madara at 856-589-4214 or Bob Wooton 856-881-8414.
WHAT’S SO ODD ABOUT HELPING OTHERS? The Samaritan
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Odd FellOws m
Accounting/Bookkeeping
Electrician
Accountant
Ted Morris Ted’s Electric & HVAC, LLC
accountingservicesbymarie@yahoo.com
28 Fountain Ct, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 www.tedselectricllc.com
Marie Rogerson
Rogerson’s Accounting & Bookkeeping 609-203-8638
Art/Graphic Design
Commercial/Industrial/Residential
856-418-8709
Financial Planning
Beth Obiedzinski-Garvin
Michael K. O’Connor
Active Hub Design
TFS Wealth Management 732-758-9300, ext. 214
Artist/Graphic Designer
Where Art and Technology Meet
609-294-0237 (home office) justelizabeth@aol.com
Camera Repair
Pastor Roman
Specializing in Film Cameras
Financial Planner
moconnor@tfsweb.com www.wealthtfs.com
Marketing Services
Mario B. Guzman, Jr., CEO
Secure Marketing Inc.
Roman Camera Repair
2045 Lowell Avenue Mays Landing, NJ 08330
201-866-4673
securemarketinginc@gmail.com
1409 Eleventh Street Noth Bergen, NJ 07047 camerasyes@aol.com
Crochet/Jewelery
Dot Planer
Handmade Jewelry & Crochet Items
Sellers of Purple
baby gifts, afghans, shawls, sweaters, poncho, slippers, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, & more!
Dot 908-494-1441
sellersofpurple1614@gmail.com
609-816-7951
Model Building
Jeff Pennell
Circus Model Building Programs
The History/Art of Circus Model Building
For your next Meeting or Special Event
609-893-0240 jpdoor@hotmail.com
Humberto Sanchez
Beep Beep the Clown, LLC
Composer/Arranger/Teacher
Balloonist, Magician, & Clown for all Occasions 609-893-0240
786-319-2698 • 786-362-0926
with Jeff Pennell
www.beepbeeptheclown.com
Guitar • Piano Percussion • Voice
rafastra@gmail.com humbertosanpe.h@gmail.com The Samaritan
Optometry
Dr. Peter K. Anderson
Eyecare, Eyeglasses, and Contact Lenses
Advanced Eyecare Center 215-946-8478 doc@drpeteranderson.com www.drpeteranderson.com
Pest Control
Orlando Ricardo, Jr.
Residential - Commercial - Industrial
Flash Exterminating Co., Inc.
406 36th Street • Union City, NJ 07087
201-348-1324 Fax: 201-864-0038
Real Estate Services
Mayra Cabrera Pardo Broker Associate
Keller Williams City Views Realty Office: 201-592-8900 Cell: 201-694-5711
mayra.cabrera.pardo@gmail.com Residential/Commercial Garage Doors
Music/Music Instruction Entertainment
Hire
27
Jeff Pennell
Installation and Repair
Jersey Pines Overhead Doors 609-338-5683 jpdoor@hotmail.com www.jerseypinesgaragedoor.com
What’s so ODD about hiring an Odd Fellow?
Not a thing that we can think of, so we started a business listing featuring services, talents, and occasional hobbies for hire of our brothers and sisters. Email your listing info to IOOF_NJ@comcast.net or mail to The Samaritan Business Listing, 209 Cedar St. Tuckerton, NJ 08087. You will receive a confirmation call so any listing without a phone number will not be published. We publish every two months so listings must be received a month prior to publication. Questions? Call Beth at 609-294-0237.
OF
INDE
DENT ORDER PEN
Independent Order of Odd Fellows Grand Lodge of New Jersey 4527 Route 130 South Burlington, NJ 08016 Grand Lodge Session Issue 2018
What’s so ODD about helping others? Want to know what makes us so ODD in New Jersey?
Chec k us o ut at: www.IOOFNJ.org • www.facebook.com/IOOFNJ
family
creative
women
youth
reliable help
hope
volunteer
humanity
respect harmony
universal justice fun
love truth
faith unity leadership universal justice relief fellowship honorable
research
what iscommunity an odd fellow? charity friendship men
visit the sick bury the dead educate the orphan relieve the distressed
I am an Odd Fellow! I believe in the Fatherhood of God, and the Brotherhood of man. I believe in Friendship, Love and Truth as basic guides to the ultimate destiny of all mankind. I believe my home, my church or temple, my lodge, a nd my community deserve my best work, my modest pride, my earnest faith, and m y deepest loyalty, as I perform my duty , to visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead and educate the orphan" and as I work with others to build a better world, because, in spirit and in truth, I am and must always be, grateful to my Creator, faithful to my country and fraternal to my fellow-man; I am an Odd Fellow!
faith
pro active
education conscientious devlopment universal fraternity
self... Are you ODD enough? And ask you r