Masonic Lodge donates to REACT

Published 8:00 pm Tuesday, May 20, 2025

: Western Star Lodge No. 26 donated $150 to Southern Minnesota Albert Lea REACT’s annual event at the Interstate 35 rest area north of the Iowa state line. Seated, from left, at the table are REACT members Betty Anderson, treasurer; Richard Anderson; Leland Johnson, secretary; and Carla Johnson. Standing behind them presenting the donation from Western Star Lodge No. 26 are Mark Harig and Milan Hart. When REACT was organized 55 years ago in 1970, Minnesota developed 22 REACT volunteer groups throughout the state. The Albert Lea REACT group is the only REACT group still in existence in Minnesota. Volunteers have been sponsoring a Highway Safety Break since 1975, where they sponsor hospitality for travelers coming into Minnesota over the July Fourth weekend to be able to take a few minutes and refresh themselves during their journeys before traveling again. REACT will have volunteers at the I-35 Rest Area for 32 hours during July 3, 4 and 5. Their schedule is from 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. July 3, from 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. July 4 and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 5. They present snacks in individual packages for travelers. Western Star Lodge stated it is honored to be one of the many sponsors who help with donations for REACT to be able to offer these amenities. People are encouraged to stop at the rest area and thank these volunteers for their dedication to helping keep motorists safe. Provided