What happens when a barber in an old river city on the Mississippi finds a bunch of Odd Fellows collectibles? He starts a lodge, of course! That was the genesis of the newly-rechartered Gem City #357 in Quincy, Illinois. Members Matthew Roegge and Jacob Bertram joined us to talk about the beginning of their lodge which was chartered in June 2022. They tell some great stories of learning, camaraderie, and fellowship. They also outline the incredible amount of support they have received from the Grand Lodge of Illinois. The Shoutout for this episode goes to a lodge recently saved by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, Foster #333 in Rew, Pennsylvania. For the Odd Podge, Toby mentions the Illinois Polka Fest (appropriate since this episode is all about Illinois), Jacob asks listeners to email the lodge to share ideas and suggestions (gemcity357ioof@gmail.com), and Ainslie looks forward to his first installation of officers serving as District Deputy Grand Master.