SAULT STE. MARIE, MI – June 4, 2025 – Bethel Lodge #358, Free & Accepted Masons of Michigan, donated 10 bicycles to students at Rudyard Area Schools, Sault Area Middle School, Lincoln Elementary School, and Brimley Area Schools this spring through its Michigan Masonic Bikes for Books program, rewarding young readers for meeting literacy goals.
Program Manager and Past Master Jay Wilson and Current Master Trey Knepp presented the bikes and helmets at each school, honoring students in grades 3–5 for their reading achievements. Photos from the presentations, submitted with this release, capture the students’ enthusiasm.
Bethel Lodge thanks the Principals driving the program’s success: Mr. McCready at Lincoln Elementary, Ms. Rondeau at Sault Area Middle School, Mrs. Peterson at Rudyard Elementary, Mr. Clarke at Brimley Elementary, and the dedicated ELA teachers and reading intervention staff. “These educators inspire a love of reading,” said Jay Wilson. “We’re proud to support their efforts to build stronger students.”
Originally a drawing for students reading a set number of books, Bikes for Books has grown into a customized program tailored to each school’s needs. By collaborating with educators, the lodge ensures the initiative boosts reading engagement, a cornerstone of academic success. “As Masons, we value education and personal growth,” Wilson added. “This program reflects our commitment to literacy.”
Backed by the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation and local donors, the program awards bikes and helmets to students who meet reading targets, showing that dedication pays off. Each school adapts the incentive to its academic goals, maximizing impact.
Since 1882, Bethel Lodge #358, a Brotherhood of Purpose, has championed learning and community service in Sault Ste. Marie. Past Master Sheriff Joe Bayliss, who with his wife funded the Bayliss Public Library’s construction in 1974–75 and authored two books on local life, exemplifies the lodge’s deep ties to reading and civic growth. Today, Bikes for Books continues this legacy, fostering knowledge and opportunity.
Schools interested in next year’s program can visit www.soomasons.org or follow Bethel Masonic Lodge on Facebook. Email Jay at ContactBethel358@gmail.com for details.
Photos available: Images from each school’s presentation are included for publication.
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Bethel Lodge No. 358 in Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan, is a cornerstone of the community's history and development. Since its charter in 1882, members have actively shaped the region's commercial, educational, and political spheres. Their significant roles in industrial growth and local infrastructure projects highlight their impact on the area's progress. The Lodge's dedication to Freemasonry's fraternal, social, and communal values further cements its integral role in the region's fabric. For ongoing updates about raffles, events, and other activities, please stay tuned to this space or follow the Bethel 358 Facebook page.
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