The Committee that designed and produced the commemorative collectible (displayed in center of picture) depicting the old Masonic Temple in Reading comprises (l-r): Dennis Hagan, Chairman; Dennis F. Ruffner, artist; and Carey Kaucher, W.M.

This is the "Bicenquinquagenary" in Reading. That's a big word that means the 250th anniversary. It also signifies a big time planned for the city and for Reading Lodge No. 549.

The Worshipful Master, Carey M. Kaucher, P.M., started planning far ahead for the big year. He has designated "Reading -- 250" as the theme for 1998 lodge programming. His plans include being a part of the city's 250th Anniversary Parade; a rail ramble to Grand Lodge and City Hall in Philadelphia; and a year-long offering of a commemorative collectible.

On May 16, Reading Masons will be part of the city's gigantic Bicenquinquagenary Parade. Parading Masons will accompany the Greater Kensington String Band, a regular headliner in the Philadelphia Mummers' Parade. Following the parade, the string band will perform in concert in Reading's City Park.

On Friday, Sept. 25, Reading Lodge No. 549, in cooperation with appropriate city committies, is planning Masonic aspects of a rail ramble to Philadelphia. Twelve buses are planned to take travelers to tour the Masonic Temple and Philadelphia's City Hall. While touring the buildings, they will be greeted by R.W. Grand Master James L. Ernette, Mayor Ed Rendell, and "Ben Franklin." After they have lunch in the Grand Banquet Room of the Masonic Temple, the travelers will board a specially chartered Amtrak for the return trip. The train will be pulled by two restored original engines that were built in the Reading Company Car Shops. Information and reservations for the $99 rail ramble ($85 without lunch), are available from Carey Kaucher, W.M., 1518 Linden St., Reading, PA 19604.

The limited edition collectible that has been designed for the Lodge depicts the original Masonic Temple at 124 N. Fifth St. in Reading, which was razed many years ago. The $20 commemorative cutout piece is hand-screened on wood by Hometown Collectibles artist Dennis Ruffner, who served with the Worshipful Master on the Committee chaired by Dennis Hagan. Information about the collectible is available from Bro. Hagan, of 124 Oley St., Reading, PA 19604, who is the sales coordinator.