WOW, already September, we have had very busy August. Started with a few days in Sturgis at the motorcycle rally, always a lot of fun. This year we were greeted with mostly rainy days so the riding was not quite as fun as usual but hey, it is still the journey and the fellowship that make it all worth while. The Chanters teamed up with the Fife and Drum and traveled to the Black Hills for America’s Story with Jeff Gould at Mount Rushmore for a fabulous presentation on July 20.
The Augie football team dinner was August 14, this is all orchestrated by Matt “Doughboy” Johnson and his Shrine Football Committee team. You saw the pictures in last months Cactus. Coach Jerry “O” Olszewski head coach for the Augustana Vikings, is one of the finest coaches I have ever met, not only is he a leader, a great one at that, and a gentleman, his players mirror those distinguishing traits as well. This dinner is for all of the players, a little over 100 plus and a few coaches. The Culinary unit cooks the men up some great tasting pork sandwiches with all the fixings and they sure seemed to
enjoy the food. Some seconds and thirds were enjoyed also as these young bodies need a lot of fuel. This is a great opportunity to show these fine young men what the Shrine is all about. In the not so distant future they will be out of football and we want to extend the message of Masonry and Shrinedom. Hopefully a few of these young men will become Masons and Shriners.
We traveled to Alexandria, MN for the Midwest Shrine Assoc. gathering on the 23 thru 26 of August. There is always a robust feeling in the air when the Motor Corp and Sprint Car units hit the blacktop for competition, and the Clowns in makeup with all of their routines. The units went out and made El Riad proud and I mean PROUD, taking home the hardware for almost everything they entered. The Chanters were part of a three temple concert and performed at the top of their game.
The Potes golf outing was Sept. 8 at the Garretson golf club. Todd Schmidt, Chief of Staff, did a great job setting everything up for the sold out event. A great big thank you for Todd and all of the participants. Steve Haase and Scott Denney were on deck to get all of the action shots, and there were many, many shots for some of these teams. The team of Jon Tveidt and Jerry Sjoberg took home the winners grand prize, well maybe not so grand but they were the winners!!
This year is flying by just as my predecessors warned me it would, what a fun year it has been so far!
Thank you all and in the faith,
Leo Baumgart
10 ISSUES A YEAR PUBLISHED IN THE INTEREST OF EL RIAD SHRINE DECEMBER–JANUARY ISSUE AND JUNE–JULY ISSUE ARE COMBINED
Shrine Office: 510 S. Phillips Ave., P.O. Box 1203, Sioux Falls, SD 57101-1203 (605) 336-1117 • Fax (605) 336-3059 • (800) 477-3574
Office Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday – Friday
Leo Baumgart, Potentate Executive Committee Chairman, 2023 Cactus
Doug Kristensen, Chief Rabban Exec. Divan, Circus, Membership, Futures Comm., Building & Entertainment Chair, Pote’s Party Chair, Football, Shrine Cup, El Riad ByLaws, 2023 Cactus, 2024 Cash Calendar
Mark Richard, Asst. Rabban Exec. Divan, Circus, Membership, Futures Comm., Pote’s Party Comm., Corn Palace Shrine Club, Oriental Band, Fife & Drum, Ritualistic Unit, El Riad By-Laws, 2023 Cactus
Scott Denney, High Priest & Prophet Exec. Divan, Hospital Comm., Futures Comm., Clowns, Roadrunners, Dance Club, Motor Corps, Sprint Car Unit, Gopher Shrine Club, 2023 Cactus, Sportsman Classic
John Whitelock, PP, Recorder El Riad By-Laws, Executive Divan State Donor Relations
Maury Richard, PP, Treasurer Executive Divan
Steve Haase, Oriental Guide Exec. Divan, Unit & Club Seminar Futures Comm., Lewis & Clark Shrine Club, Chanters, Horse Corps, Ski Club, Steel Drum Band, Shriner of the Year
Bill Thompson, 1st Ceremonial Master Exec. Divan/NV, Futures Comm., Spring Ceremonial, Classie Autos, Legion of Honor, Directors Staff, Culinary Unit, Family Day
Paul Berndt, 2nd Ceremonial Master Exec. Divan/NV, Futures Comm., Fall Ceremonial, Rickshaws, Parker Shrine Club, Provost, Shutterbugs, Worthington Shrine Club
Tony Bachman, Marshal
Futures Comm., Big Bend Shrine Club, Twin Lakes Shrine Club, Highlanders, Blast & Cast Club, Blast & Cast North, Watertown Clowns
John Schuety, Captain of the Guard
Futures Comm., Brookings Shrine Club, Outhouse #1, Back 40 Boys
Brian Schultz, Outer Guard
Futures Comm., Rosebud Shrine Club, Big Band
Todd Schmidt, Chief of Staff
MSA, Pote’s Aides, Parades, Asst. Chief of Staff, Ceremonials, Imperial pilgrimages.
Dave Murphy, Assistant Chief of Staff
Attend monthly COS meetings
George Hamilton, Chaplain
Fall Ceremonial – Necrology
Don Laurila, Temple Director Ceremonials – 2nd Section
John Archer, Membership Co-Chairman
Charles Brown, Membership Co-Chairman
Jeff Landborg, Circus Chairman
Rob Angerhofer, Circus Asst. Chairman
Matt Johnson, Football Chairman
Doug Schneider, Shrine Cup Co-Chairman
Ryan Simmons, Shrine Cup Co-Chairman
Ethan Serck, Sportsman’s Classic Chairman
Jeremy Swenson, Sportsman’s Classic Asst. Chairman
Paul Buriak, Shrine Hospital Chairman
John Whitelock, Donor & Sponsor Relations
Doug Kristensen, Pote’s Party Chairman
Steve Haase, Unit/Club Seminar
Jim Dewey, Roadrunners President
Gail Gustafson, Roadrunners Coordinator
James Hoy, Masonic Relations
Reid Jensen, Public Relations Director
David Murphy, Stop Burns Chairman
Gail Gustafson, Front Office assistant
Kent Quail, Unit/Club Support
Shutterbugs & Pixels, Shrine Photographers
Designs by Liz – Liz Lambertz, Cactus Editor & Webmaster
Mark Richard, Cactus Advertising Sales Board of Trustees
David Neiman, PP, Chairman
Thomas Benz
Loren Eggebraaten, PP
Edward Anstine, PP
Charles Brown, PP
All articles or comments should be directed to the Editor at cactus@elriad.com and advertising matters to the advertising sales manager at advertise@elriad.com
For information concerning Shriners Hospitals for Children, call (800) 237-5055.
Printed
Printing, Madison, S.D.
MSA did not disappoint for the Sprint car unit. We competed and we won our middle weight multi wheel class. Thanks to the competition team. Noah Richard, Dane Bloch, Todd Schneider, Tim Meirose, Mark Richard, and Chad DeVries. Jason Schlechter and Dave Murphy also competed in the obstacle course along with the rest of the team.
On the obstacle course we cleaned house and won that too. Congrats to Noah Richard and Dane Bloch for the quickest times and getting the 2 person win!
From what I heard, El Riad took alot of trophies and awards in all we competed in, Congrats to all!!
Coming up for us is our annual ladies night and a new adventure of a back hoe rodeo.
Will have more pictures next month on those events. And with that I am signing off!
4 wheels on the street to get kids on their feet.
by Chad DeVries
Our big Fife and Drum event in August was once again sponsoring the Augustana Football banquet at the Shrine Center. There were a lot of nice pictures in the previous Cactus from this banquet. And boy, there are some large humans on the team. The turnout was terrific and kudo’s to the Culinary Unit for all the good food and lots of it. Highlights were having Shrine patient Gavin Deevers on hand and a surprise speech by the football teams gal that navigates a drone to record practices. The coach discovered she has been a Shrine patient on their way over to the banquet. This is such a special time for El Riad and everyone left feeling more connected to the kids we help. These young men are certainly an impressive bunch and we look forward to the Shrine game Oct. 21.
Our group has been blessed over the years with great leadership and this year team of officers is certainly no exception. They have made the decision to appoint Tim Voegele (formerly our Sargent-Major) to the new role of Financial Exchequer. As a retired Poet executive, we’ll be exceedingly well served by his talents. This role will be handled by Tim for as long as he chooses and will not be
by Bruce Nortonsubject to Officer changes, etc. For a group that handles as much money as we do, this is a very good move and we congratulate our Officer’s for this strategic move. Thank you is not a big enough word for all Tim does on behalf of our group, but thank you nonetheless!
Our annual Keith Rose Invitational will be contested September 29 at Spring Creek. This is such a fun outing and a great way to honor Keith. I really look forward to reporting on this outing in the next Cactus. Our golf is followed by some great fellowship and having our Ladies join us as we ridicule anyone that said they played well.
We then turn around for our annual appearance in the Parade of Bands the first weekend in October. We should feature a big turnout for this event as family fun ensues with food and refreshing beverages following the parade. Hope to see everyone there!
Shriners Hospitals for Children is changing lives every day through innovative pediatric specialty care, world-class research and outstanding medical education. Our 22 locations in the United States, Canada and Mexico provide advanced care for children with orthopaedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate.
For more information visit: shrinershospitalsforchildren.org
Check us out online:
facebook.com/shrinershospitalsforchildren
twitter.com/shrinershosp
youtube.com/shrinershospitals
instagram.com/shrinershospitals
In Memory of Dick Baker: Mike Howes
In Memory of Deborah Klasi: Larry Albers
In Memory of Jean Phillippe: Larry & Anita Bierman
In Memory of James Ottoman: Warren & Corlynn Wilbeck Lewis & Clark Shrine Club
In Memory of James Halpin: Darrell Butterwick
In Memory of Jim Lovro: Diane Mathison
License Decals: Bennie Nustad
In Memory of Chris Hanten: Tom & Jane Andersom
Donation: Peggy Anderson
The dance band played for the Dance Club on Friday, Sept 8 and will play for the Fall Ceremonial.
We are thinking our new blazers make us sound better!
“Last Call” played for the combined WHS/LHS 1973 class reunion at the Shrine on Saturday, Sep 9 .
On Sept 23, we played for the Noble’s Party. The theme for the party was Music thru the decades, we played an hour of 1960’s music, an hour of 70’s and an hour of 80’s music. People dressed for their decade and they danced! What a fun night!!!
“Last Call” next “gig” will be Saturday, Oct 28 at the Klassix Bar in Beresford for the annual Halloween party! Everyone is welcome and costumes are encouraged. WE come in costume!
On a personal note:
My lady, Jill, and I spent a week on a Viking River cruise on the Danube River a month ago with some relatives. We traveled from Budapest thru Vienna, Passau and Regensburg, Germany. The sites were fantastic, but I noticed something along the way that was awesome. In several places, our tour guides explained the history behind a building and I was surprised the number of times that I heard the word “MASONS” mentioned as having something to do with a building; whether it was something that was done in history or a meeting place.
I took this photo in Passau as the guide was explaining
the three groups who meet in this “quasi” church building and she even pointed to the Masonic emblem on the building as she described the three uses.
Well, another MSA has come and gone. Good times were had by one and all, and your very own STB swept the Steel Drum Band competitions once again! The total lack of any competitors helped give us that little extra edge to put us on top.
On Friday we enjoyed a fun round of golf at Geneva Golf Club, a twenty-seven hole course with a confusing design and even more confusing signage directing you from hole to hole. Thankfully we were only playing nine holes after which President Bruce “Tassels” Wentzel treated the band to lunch.
On Saturday we headed to Glenwood for our second parade. Unfortunately the parade seemed to be poorly planned and unorganized and made for a frustrating setup. But we eventually stepped-off and finished in time for me to jump off the trailer and into my car so I could be three hours north for a 4 o’clock family wedding. The crowd in Glenwood was much larger and a lot more enthusiastic than in Alexandria where they seemed not to have gotten the memo that there was a parade Thursday night. Our own George “Mayor” Hamilton was our sideline cheerleader and got the crowds pumped up as we approached. And as usual “Tequila” was a crowd favorite.
Keith “Dwain” Backer and I represented the SDB at the Shrine Cup on August 17th when Keith called and asked me to play as he was desperate for a 2nd player after his son was put on IR. Clearly he was desperate. We were paired with a couple of thirty-somethings with an average drive of around 300 yards, so there wasn’t much
by Steve “Ossifer” Burtis
competition. We tried distracting them by talking about the Shrine the entire time. It didn’t affect their game at all, but I think we peaked their interest in taking a closer look at becoming a Shriner.
Until next time… SPREAD
ASK SOMEONE YOU KNOW TO BECOME A SHRINER!
by Jim Dewey
The El Riad Roadrunners are in desperate need of new volunteer drivers to transport Shrine patients and their families to fill the ongoing needs of making regular day trips to the Shrine clinic in Woodbury, MN.
We have lost many of our older volunteer drivers due to age safety retirements. As well the Black Camel has taken many more. As a result, our Roadrunner volunteer number of drivers is very low, almost nonexistent.
Gail has a very difficult time finding drivers to make day trips. She has canceled trips numerous times mainly due to no response to her requests and no drivers available to make trips.
Our main mission is to support and transport our patients and their families to their medical appointments and back home safely at n o cost to them.
Please, even if you can find time once a month and wish to make a huge difference in our patients’ lives, the El Riad Roadrunner’s need your help! Our patients are counting on new volunteers to step up and give their time to support them. This is a very rewarding opportunity for Nobles to make a huge difference in the lives of our patients and their families.
If you think you might be interested in a rewarding volunteer opportunity, please contact Gail Gustafson, El Riad Shrine Patient Navigator at the Shrine office (605) 336-1117 or email office@elriad.com. Remember, your lady
can also be a volunteer. If you are already a volunteer for the El Riad Shrine Roadrunner and have not been receiving Gail’s email request for drivers, please contact Gail and update your email address.
Thank you so very much for your time and consideration.
The following letter from Kenny Craven, Imperial Potentate was sent to all Illustrious Sirs this summer to congratulate all Shriner’s for the positive membership numbers our great fraternity as recently achieved. We must use this as encouragement and momentum in aggressively pursuing new members to our brotherhood!
We have before us both a wonderful success and an incredible opportunity. And, we need your help to see that opportunity come to fruition!
Thanks to intense efforts demonstrated throughout our fraternity, the month of April 2023 posted a positive net membership growth of +56. Likewise, February 2023 also resulted in a net positive of +61. This historic accomplishment, having two positive months thus far in 2023, is proof of what we have always known: that the values we stand for – fun, fellowship, and philanthropy – continue to resonate with men across the globe.
We are now positioned, for the first time in many years, to see positive membership growth in a sixmonth period. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to launch the upcoming Imperial Session with an added celebration of six months’ net-positive growth?
We can meet this goal. No, together we WILL meet this goal!
by
Bruce Norton• October 6 & 7, 2023, Fall Masonic Festival
Success will require every temple and every noble to make a determined effort, over and above what we are all already doing.
To support you in this collective effort to post six months’ net-positive growth, our Regional Membership Directors will call each temple to demonstrate their support and offer their assistance. They will also host monthly meetings to discuss resources or help you troubleshoot any challenges you may experience.
There has never been a better time to be a Shriner! Our fraternity offers men unique opportunities for fun and fellowship, separate from those offered by any other organization. And when members support our philanthropy, Shriners Children’s, they know the incredible feeling of being part of something truly meaningful, something far greater than themselves. It’s our privilege and our responsibility to share this amazing brotherhood with more men. Let’s get out there and spread the message and continue this growth trajectory!
We had a very exciting August with the ElRiad Motor Corps. Road Captain Lonnie Albers had the team practicing and preparing to proudly represent ElRiad Shrine at the Midwest Shrine Association gathering in his home town of Alexandria Minnesota. This is our opportunity as a unit to come together and represent for ElRiad Shrine. When those chances come up that is when our team shows out. When you go to these gatherings it take everyone pulling in the same direction to make it all go well. Away from the bikes you have to coordinate all the movements from lodging, meals and routes to take. On the bikes, you have parades, washing bikes, staging, competing on the drill field, obstacle course and slow course. Many moving parts and it takes everyone’s help to pull off what the team did in Alexandria this year. Before you can stand for inspection the bikes have to be shined up from every angle. In true Motor Corps team fashion, Gene Peska, John Bayer, Chuck Ihlen and Llyod Schipper jumped in to help get all the bikes ready. Once you are at the drill field, additional hands are needed to make everything go as planned. That help came from the ladies. We want to thank Sandra Haase, Emily Ihlen, Penny Slater, Anne Albers, Robin Tomshack and Rachel Corbett for all the time they spend getting our uniforms ready and making sure we looked good for inspection. All that team work resulted in winning the Drill competition, the obstacle course competition, the slow course competition and taking home the over all points
by El Jefe, Commander
Championship for MSA 2023. Congratulations and thanks to everyone involved. After Alexandria the team had 4 days to rest and repair some bikes ( Jerry Hauff burned his clutch up on the slow course. Thankfully our top motorcycle mechanic Tim Meirose got one ordered that day from the hospitality room. That’s service.) before heading to Omaha NE to compete in Central States Shrine Association. The rules are a little different competing against the southern states but in true ElRiad Motor Corps fashion we still won the Drill competition and took the overall points championship. A special thanks to the ladies who helped us in Omaha. Amy Hauff, Penny Slater, Rachel Corbett and Kim Thompson. Once again they make the difference. For those of you viewing this online, here is a link to the video of the MSA Drill competition routine. https://m. facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02nvdEZRXP5eoqgkqB8MpnzHvB6cyHmwvfnTDBnLBC996DWFTqPvzowPS66AbFGa3Yl&id=804695166&mibextid=v7YzmG
They say that summer is over after Labor Day. Put the boats away, get the campers ready for storage. Pull in the lawn furniture…. Well that’s just crazy. We have plenty or riding time left and a parade or two in our future before we throw the covers on the bikes.
If you want to take a ride just let any of us know in the Motor Corps. You are always welcome to join in the fun.
Place your order by November 25, 2023.
Oysters can be picked up Saturday, December 9 from 10 a.m. until noon at the Shrine.
To order, contact any Horse Corps member or: Don Jensen: (605) 759-6383 | djensen@sio.midco.net
Cal Wheeler (605) 310-9185 | calwheeler53@gmail.com
Ken Krein (605) 690-5505 | kreinken@yahoo.com
Source: Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” list, March 12, 2018. Advisors considered for the “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” ranking have a minimum of seven years financial services experience and have been employed at their current firm for at least one year. Quantitative and qualitative measures used to determine the advisor rankings include: This is a list of the top advisors in each state, with the number of ranking spots determined by each state’s population and wealth. The rankings are based on assets under management, revenues generated by advisors for their firms and the quality of the advisors’ practices. Investment performance is not an explicit criterion because performance is often a function of each client’s appetite for risk. In evaluating advisors, we examine regulatory records, internal company documents and 100-plus points of data provided by the advisors themselves. Barron’s does not receive compensation from advisors, participating firms and their affiliates, or the media in exchange for rankings. Barron’s is a trademark of Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Rankings and recognition from Barron’s are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor.
Merrill Lynch Wealth Management makes available products and services offered by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, a registered broker-dealer and Member SIPC, and other subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation.
October 2023
Ryan Brech 10-1
Jeremy Forthman 10-1
Thomas Harper 10-1
Dustin Hartz 10-1
Richard Osvog 10-1
Eric Roskup 10-1
Glenn Kluis 10-2
Matthew Nikodym 10-2
Seth Curl 10-3
Nathan DeGeest 10-3
Jack Frantz 10-3
Thomas Glover 10-3
Jeffery Viberg 10-3
Jason Avery 10-4
Thomas Schultz 10-4
Randy Sorensen 10-4
Michael Karl 10-5
Alex Verburg 10-5
Donald Gray 10-6
James Kirschman 10-6
David Driver 10-7
Aaron Lozano 10-7
Donald Wendt 10-8
Mark Fredericks 10-9
Bruce Heitman 10-9
Nicholas Muller 10-9
Ryan Wilhelm 10-9
John Ewing 10-10
Michael Kuzeppa 10-10
Darin Groos 10-11
Lowell Hansen 10-11
Ryan Karst 10-11
Jeffrey Larson 10-11
Lloyd Schipper 10-11
Jerry Stubbe 10-11
Donald Weeg 10-11
James White 10-11
Patrick Campbell 10-12
David Fell 10-12
Christopher Morrison 10-12
Craig Holmen 10-13
Shawn Howard 10-13
John Marrinan 10-13
William Mathers 10-13
Gary Smith 10-13
Scott Maxwell 10-14
Michael Peil 10-14
Thomas Reaves 10-14
D’orsay Winthers
Keith Deurmier
Chad Gruis
Jason Parsons
Kevin Wohlleber
Woodward
Charles Andela
Michael Burns
David Murphy
Wade Thomas
Krein
Donald Christensen
Douglas Feltman
Gary Greenleaf
Griffith
Philip Larson 10-20 Lyle Schroeder
Jerry Chaon
The 2023 Shrine Cup is in the books. We held this event on August 17, at Prairie green Golf Course with all net proceeds going to our mission of supporting the Shiners’ Children.
The event was headlined by our ‘Legacy of Hope’ sponsor First Premier Bank and Premier BankCard. This year’s event brought in 88 golfers for our 2-person team format and saw for the first time all outside money in the event with 32 sponsors in total! This year featured our 21’ Bennington Pontoon Boat ($60,000 cash) giveaway powered by Vern Eide Marine! While all 88 attempted, unfortunately we didn’t have a winner this year. Better luck next year as we would love to continue this chance for a lifetime memory for the golfer. We started off our day with a beautiful performance by the El Riad Shriner’s Chanters for the National Anthem and finished with crowing our fellow brother Barry VanVoorst and Brian Sievert going low with a score of 58! Great job Gentlemen!
Volunteers:
Josh Jurgens
Darrell Griggs
Bob Uecker
Evan Brink
Bill Rise
David Grant
Pat Booth
Committee Members:
Ryan Simmons – Co-Chair
Doug Schneider – Co-Chair
Todd Smith
Dave Dierks
Bill Schepler
Aaron Aasen
Josh Brown
A successful day like this is not possible without the volunteers and committee members who make this all happen.
Camp Explore started as a dream. The Watertown Circus Committee wanted to use money from the Watertown Circus to bring Joy to the kids associated with Shriners Children-Twin Cities and keep the proceeds local.
After two years of planning, the Watertown Circus Committee partnered with Joy Ranch to bring Camp Explore to Watertown. The kids were dropped off by there parents and came from different states, which included Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota. For some of these kids, it was the first time being away from home. The kids had several different activities throughout the week. They ranged from Swimming, Canoes/Kayaks, Pontoon rides, fishing, horse rides, petting zoo, wagon rides, bingo, archery, arts and crafts. They also had a hoedown with karaoke. Also did campfire with s’mores. The kids had a visit from Callie Mueller, who is the Watertown Rodeo Queen for 2023. The kids also had Cotton Candy. Fun was had by all the kids. The kids said they had a great time.
“These kids just bonded right away. We always think that we’re doing something good in the back of our heads when we start this, but to actually be here and see the reaction of these kids and the way that they have met each other and bonded, that’s truly what makes a difference”, said Maureen Johnston, Shriners recreational therapist.
We would like to thank the Northeastern General Auxiliary, the Masonic Bodies of Watertown, El Riad Shrine and the Watertown Shrine Units. We would like to thank all of the these different organizations for assisting at Camp Explore. We would also like to thank the different businesses that helped sponsor and donate to Camp Explore.
With the success of this camp, it has been scheduled for July of 2024. The success of this camp can be summed up by the quotes of a couple of the kids. One kid rode a horse for the very first time and he said “this was the best day of my life”
Another camper was interviewed and this is what she had to say “It was really simple making new friends, because here, people don’t see you based off of your disability, they see you based off of your personality”, said camper Savannah Mommer.
Joy Ranch is a place for those with disabilities or challenging life circumstances, we are a place to enjoy nature and participate in horse related activities and other experiences. All in a barrier free and stairway free environment that everyone can access.
It was really simple making new friends, because here, people don’t see you based off of your disability, they see you based off of your personality”
Date Received: _____________________________
Donation in honor of _____________________________________________________________________________
Memorial in memory of ___________________________________________________________________________ El Riad Hospital Transportation Fund
Unit and Expense Loan Fund
*Given by: _____________________________________________________________
Address _______________________________________________________________________________________
City __________________________________________________________ State _________ Zip _____________
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*Please acknowledge my gift to: ____________________________________________________________________
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The $100 Million Dollar Club is a way for Shriners and non-Shriners alike to provide a gift of hope for a child in need. It’s an excellent opportunity to personally participate in the “World’s Greatest Philanthropy” — Shriners Hospitals for Children.
The Shriners operate 22 hospitals in North America dedicated to treating children with orthopedic problems and burn injuries. There are 18 orthopedic hospitals, three burn hospitals and one Shriners Hospital that provides orthopedic, burn care and spinal cord injury care. All care and services provided by Shriners Hospitals are totally without cost to the patient or family.
Since the founding of Shriners Hospitals in 1922, about $5.5 billion has been spent to provide quality and compassionate medical care to more than 675,000 children with orthopedic problems, severe burn injuries or spinal cord injuries. Most of these services are paid for by the Shriners Hospitals for Children Endowment Fund.
Without this fund, Shriners Hospitals would not be able to ensure optimum and compassionate patient care. In order to meet the needs of thousands of children in need of the expert care Shriners Hospitals provide, the endowment fund must continue to grow during these times of increasing cost of medical care.
Since approximately 95 percent of the annual Shriners Hospitals for Children operating budget will be spent in direct support of the 22 hospitals, your gift to its endowment fund is a gift to one of the world’s “purest” philanthropies.
Visit our website: shrinershq.org
p Yes, I (we) want to share in the care of SHRINERS HOSPITALS FOR CHILDREN.
p I have previously made a will leaving a bequest (of $100 or more) to the Shriners Hospitals for Children endowment fund.
p I have added a provision in my will leaving a bequest (of $100 or more) to the Shriners for Children Endowment Fund.
p I prefer to make a cash donation at this time (of $100 or more).
Make your check payable to:
SHRINERS HOSPITALS FOR CHILDREN
Signed _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Temple Member? ________________________________________________________________________________
Address ___________________________________________________________________________________________
City_________________________________________________________________________________________________
State _____________ Zip _________________________
You may give a $100 Million Dollar Club Membership in another person’s name, as a special anniversary, birthday or appreciation gift. Please have the membership certificate read:
J o i n u s f o r a f u n f i l l e d d a y !
T h e r e w i l l b e f o o d , a n d d o o r p r i z e s .
F R E E
A D M I S S I O N
O c t 1 , 2 3
N o o n t o 4
W e w i l l a l s o b e c o l l e c t i n g c a s h o r
g i f t c a r d s t o W a l m a r t o r T a r g e t
f o r S h r i n e r s C h i l d r e n
E l R i a d S h r i n e
5 2 0 S . P h i l l i p s A v e
F o r V e n d o r I n f o C o n t a c t :
a s h r a m a 9 7 w m @ g m a i l . c o m
S p o n s o r e d b y :
H o s t e d b y :
A s h r a m a T e m p l e N o .
9 7
D a u g h t e r s o f t h e N i l e
Prior to the meeting, members of Jobs Daughters Bethel 38 addressed the nobility regarding their annual Christmas Greenery sale and the annual Father-Daughter dance in February, both which benefit the Bethel in funding travel and other activities for the year.
The meeting was opened at 7:05 p.m. by Potentate Leo Baumgart. Chaplain George Hamilton gave the invocation. Potentate Baumgart then led the Nobles in the Shrine Pledge of Allegiance.
The minutes of the Stated Meeting held on August 9, 2023 were, upon proper motion and second, approved as printed and distributed.
Potentate Baumgart welcomed Most Worshipful Brother Aaron Zahn, Grand Master of Masons of South Dakota to his home Shrine temple. Grand Honors were given to MWB Zahn. He introduced Grand Lodge officers that accompanied him, including Junior Grand Warden Brian Pulling, Grand Chaplain Troy Stavig, and Grand Sword Bearer Dustin Knutson. MWB Zahn thanked El Riad and its nobles for the support given to the Grand Lodge of South Dakota, and noted that the Grand Lodge line includes 8 members of El Riad. He encouraged the nobles to be active in their lodges and to attend meetings when possible.
Treasurer’s Report: Maury Richard, PP, Treasurer, gave the financial report for August 2023.
Upon proper motion and second, the Treasurer’s report was approved.
Building and Entertainment Committee Report: Chief Rabban Doug Kristensen reported on several items of discussion or action by the Committee:
Denise Richard was hired as the venue salesperson. She is coordinating a Venue Showcase event for wedding vendors and the public on October 20.
The building fire alarm system can no longer be updated and must be replaced. An estimate has been received from 3D Security, and approval will be sought from the Board of Directors for this project not to exceed $13,000. Units will be requested to consider donating to this project through Potentate’s Discretion funds at the Fall Ceremonial.
All Roadrunners and event coordinators must be CPRcertified. Assistant Chief of Staff Dave Murphy is making arrangements for any nobles still needing certification.
A new venue rental contract and rental policies are being formulated for future rentals.
New policies are in place for units utilizing the Peska storage facility.
Some units are not cleaning the bar and/or kitchen following unit use of those areas.
Upon proper motion and second, the report was approved.
Chief of Staff: Assistant Chief of Staff Dave Murphy praised all nobles for the temple’s attendance, performances, and the courtesy displayed at the MSA gathering in Alexandria, MN on August 23-26. He also reported on the success of the Pote’s Golf Outing at the River Ridge in Garretson on September 8, and noted that 37 golfers participated and that the winners were John Twedt and Jerry Schubert. ACOS Murphy reminded the nobility of the Nobles Party on September 23, and the Fall Ceremonial on November 4.
Membership: Committee co-chairman Ill. Sir John Archer, PP gave thanks to the Masonic leaders in attendance for the assistance in arranging degree work for new members of the Masons and the Shrine. He announced the following degree work on the schedule: MM, District 2, October 28; EA, Minnehaha, September 21; FC, Minnehaha, October 19; MM, Unity October 26; and FC, Trinity late September/early October. The next rush party at the Shrine is September 20.
Communications: Oriental Guide Steve Haase reminded the nobility that the Cactus deadline is the 5th of the month. All articles and photos must be sent to cactus@ elriad.com, and photos should be labeled as to content. He also announced that cash calendars have been delivered to the office, and asked the units and clubs to pick them up as soon as possible.
Sportsman’s Classic: Chairman Ethan Serck told the nobility that this annual fraternal fundraising event will be held on October 3. The event is sold out. One additional
game has been added. Outdoor raffle merchandise has been purchased from Scheels. The Corn Palace Shrine Club Sportsman’s Classic is October 27 in Mitchell.
Circus: Potentate Baumgart announced that nobles Alan Machmiller and Jeremy Swenson will attend the annual Shrine Fundraising Association meeting to learn about the various fundraising activities undertaken by temples across the country.
Shrine Football: Chairman Matt Johnson told the nobility of a bingo fundraiser that will be held at Burnside Bingo on October 16. The proceeds of this event will be added to the charity funds raised by the football game and donated to Shriners Children’s. The football game is October 21, where Augustana University will play MSU Mankato. A tailgate will be held near the President’s House at 10:30 a.m. and the game will commence at 1:00 p.m. To be honored at the game will be Noble Bruce Norton as Shriner of the Day, and patient Gavin Bennett as Patient of the Day.
Shrine Cup: Potentate Baumgart told the nobility that the Shrine Cup golf tournament was held at Prairie Green golf course on August 17. 86 golfers took part in this event that benefits Shriners Children’s.
Masonic Relations: Noble Brian Pulling announced that Minnehaha Lodge is hosting a First Aid/CPR course at the Masonic Temple on November 30 at 6:00 p.m. There is no charge for Masons who wish to attend.
Divan Reports: High Priest & Prophet Scott Denney reported on the Clowns, Motor Corps, Sprint Cars, and Dance Club. Assistant Rabban Richard reported on the Fife & Drum Corps, Ritualistic Unit and the Oriental Band. Oriental Guide Steve Haase reported on the Chanters, Steel Drum Unit, Horse Corps, the Lewis & Clark Shrine Club, and the Magnet Hot Dog Days. 1st Ceremonial Master Bill Thompson reported on the Classie Autos, Legion of Honor, Culinary Unit and Directors Staff. He thanked the Masons of Minnehaha Lodge for assisting the Classie Autos with the Hot Summer Nights event sponsored by Ace Hardware. 2nd Ceremonial Master Paul Berndt reported on the Camp Explore event coordinated by the Watertown Shrine Unit and thanked the nobles of the unit for their outstanding work on this event for Shrine patients. Captain of the Guard John Schuety reported on the Back 40 Boys, and the Brookings Shrine Club. Outer Guard Brian Schultz reported on the Last Call Band.
It was reported that El Riad once again performed very successfully at the MSA summer session. The Motor Corps won their division and the overall motor division. The Sprint Car Unit won their division. The Rickshaws took
second place in the multi-wheel division. The Clown Unit brought home 12 awards. A week later, the Motor Corps attended the Central States Shrine Association gathering in Omaha and won all the awards in their division (again)!
1st Ceremonial Master Thompson introduced Noble Guy Gibson of Watertown as the newest member of the Motor Corps.
Ill. Sir Marv Stavig, PP, and a member of the Watertown Shrine Unit, thanked El Riad for their support of the Camp Explore activity for Shrine patients at Joy Ranch. He announced that the event has already been booked for 2024.
Business from the Floor: Noble Troy Stavig had questions about various circus issues. Potentate Baumgart will refer those issues to the Circus Committee. Noble Bob Uecker announced that “A Prairie Christmas” featuring Jeff Gould will once again be held at El Riad on December 17. Tickets will be available on the El Riad ticketing platform. There being no further business before the body, Potentate Baumgart thanked the Provosts for tiling the doors. A motion was made and seconded to adjourn the meeting at 8:20 p.m. The motion was approved.
Respectfully submitted, John
Whitelock, PP, Recorder
All cities are in South Dakota unless otherwise noted. (605) is the area code for all South Dakota phone numbers.
BACK 40 BOYS
President: Clayton Wilhelm (Holly)
1401 S. Lindenwald Dr., Sioux Falls, SD 57106 (605) 759-2966 clayton.j.wilhelm@gmail.com
(As Called)
BIG BAND
President: John Bayer (Janean)
1511 Riverdale Rd., Sioux Falls, SD 57105 (605) 360-1204 jbayer254@hotmail.com
(Unit Meets for Ceremonials)
BIG BEND SHRINE CLUB
President: Claude Olson
26959 Farmers Rd., Platte, SD 57369 (605)680-0728 claudeolson49@icloud.com
(Meeting dates as called)
BLAST & CAST
President: Kevin Wohlleber (Laurie)
1204 W. Whispering St., Sioux Falls, SD 57108 (605) 376-4337 absolutecomfort@sio.midco.net
(Meets 3rd Tuesday @ 7:00 p.m.)
BLAST & CAST NORTH
President: Eric Caulfield (Jessie)
315 Bentley Ave., Bradley, SD 57217 (605) 237-6863 ecaulfield@itctel.com
(As Called)
BROOKINGS SHRINE CLUB
President: Robby Flint (Donna)
1703 Calumet Rd., Brookings, SD 57006 (605) 696-0143 donna.flint@sdstate.edu
(Meets 1st Monday, 5:30 p.m. @ Cubbies)
CHANTERS
President: Evan Brink (Jean Saunders)
2105 W. 16th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57104
(605) 212-4544 brinkster_e@yahoo.com
(Rehearsal every Tuesday @ 7 p.m., Social @ 8 p.m.)
CLASSIE AUTOS
President: David Wilson (Charyl) 2409 S. Sheffield Cr., Sioux Falls, SD 57106 (605) 413-5597 davwilson@sio.midco.net
(Meets 2nd Tuesday @ 7:00 p.m.)
CLOWNS
Big Clown: Kevin Wingert 4601 E. Clark St., Apt. 2, Sioux Falls, SD 57110 (605) 730-0150 wingertk23@gmail.com
(Meets 1st Thursday @ 6:30 p.m.)
CORN PALACE SHRINE CLUB
President: Dustin Knutson (Amanda) 25021 402nd Ave., Mitchell SD 57301 (605) 630-0463 dustink@boydsgunstocks.com
(Meets last Thursday @ 6:30 p.m.)
CULINARY UNIT
President: Steven Hauff (Susan) 904 Ridge Rd., Sioux Falls, SD 57105-5047 (605) 376-2452 steve@dakotasportsonline.com
(Meets as called)
DANCE CLUB
President: Chris Karr (Erika) 7421 W. Luke, Sioux Falls, SD 57106 (605) 695-0391 ckarr@silveradostud.com
(Meets 3rd Tuesday @ 7:00 p.m.)
DIRECTOR’S STAFF
President: Jeremy Reimer (Sheila) 7025 W. 56th St. #1, Sioux Falls, SD 57106 (605) 496-3890 jeremy.c.reimer@gmail.com
(Meets 3rd Thursday @ 7:00 p.m.)
FIFE & DRUM CORPS
Brigadier: Scott Nepp (Virginia) 301 N. Grange Ave., Sioux Falls, SD 57104 (605) 413-9044 scottnepp@gmail.com
(Meets 2nd & 4th Mondays @ 7:30 p.m.)
GOPHER SHRINE CLUB
President: Michael Simon (Marlene) 47373 Co. Rd. 51, Windom, MN 56101 (507) 822-2500 simonmn@rrcnet.org
(Meets as called)
HIGHLANDERS PIPE & DRUM
President: David Wooters (Julie)
217 S. Country Club Ave., Brandon, SD 57005 (605) 261-3531 wootspad@alliancecom.net
(Meets 2nd & 4th Mondays @ 6:00 p.m.)
HILLBILLY OUTHOUSE #1
President: Matt Gage (Amy)
2420 S. 2nd Ave., Sioux Falls, SD 57105 (605) 251-9465 info@mattgage.net
(Meets 3rd Tuesday @ 7:00 p.m.)
HORSE CORPS
Trail Boss: Cal Wheeler (Donnel)
229 N. Euclid Ave., Sioux Falls, SD 57104 (605) 310-9185 calwheeler53@gmail.com
(Meets last Saturday @ 10:00 a.m.)
LEGION OF HONOR
Commander: Ron Hammer
3011 N Highland Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 605-201-2682 hammerman6543@yahoo.com
(Meets 1st Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m.)
LEWIS & CLARK SHRINE CLUB
President: Doug Kristensen
401 E. Grant St., Wausa, NE 68786 (402) 360-3492 boneskr@hotmail.com
(Meets 2nd Tuesday @ 6:30 p.m. Social/Eat; Mtg @ 8:00)
MOTOR CORPS
Commander: Bill Thompson (Kim)
2009 S. Firefly Dr., Sioux Falls, SD 57110 (712) 204-2827 bill.thompson.j13x@statefarm.com
(Meets 3rd Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m.)
ORIENTAL BAND
President: Dan Altenburg
1412 S. Western Ave., Sioux Falls, SD 57105 (605) 209-3327 dan.j.altenburg@gmail.com
(Meets Thursdays @ 7:00 p.m.)
PARKER SHRINE CLUB
President: TBD
(Meets as called)
PROVOST
Chief: Bill Rise (Tami) 1000 N. 6 Mile Rd., Sioux Falls, SD 57110 (605) 360-7611 rise_william@hotmail.com
(Meets 4th Tuesday @ 7:00 p.m.)
RICKSHAWS
Emperor: James Goering (Mandy) 704 Royal Ave., Crooks, SD 57020 (605) 370-3976 james.goering@hotmail.com
(Meets 1st Tuesday @ 6:00 p.m.)
RITUALISTIC
President: Thomas Lewis
4000 S. Homerun Ave., Sioux Falls, SD 57110 (240) 274-8276 tomlewis2002@hotmail.com
(Meets as called)
ROADRUNNERS
President: James Dewey (Lisa) 7512 W. 58th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57106 (605) 731-9330 roadrunnershriner@gmail.com
(Meets as called)
ROSEBUD SHRINE CLUB
President: Richard Ringstmeyer (Janet) 27968-318th Ave., Winner, SD 57580-6441 (605) 840-0032 rjringstmeyer@goldenwest.net
(Meets 1st Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m.)
SHUTTERBUGS
President: Tom Anderson (Jane) 47948 Copperwood Ct., Harrisburg, SD 57032 (605) 366-6238 roadwarriortma@gmail.com
(Meets last Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m.)
PIXELS
President: Shelby DeVries (Chad)
300 N. Pennsylvannia Ave., Sioux Falls, SD 57107 shelbysundvold@gmail.com
(Meets with Shutterbugs)
PROVOST
Chief: Bill Rise (Tami)
1000 N. 6 Mile Rd., Sioux Falls 57110 (605) 360-7611 rise_william@hotmail.com
(Meets 4th Tuesday @ 7:00 p.m.)
SKI CLUB
President: Paul Maxwell 2903 E. Bragstad Dr., Sioux Falls SD 57103, (605) 370-9920 paulcmaxwell@yahoo.com
(Meets as called)
SPRINT CARS
President: A. J. Richard (Kayla)
921 S. Conklin Ave., Sioux Falls, SD 57103 (605) 940-7473 alexanderjamesrichard@gmail.com
(Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesdays @ 6:30 p.m.)
STEEL DRUM BAND
President: Bruce Wentzel (Bonnie Overweg) PO Box 91014, Sioux Falls, SD 57109 (605) 366-8137 tec_dist@hotmail.com
(Meets 2nd, 3rd & 4th Thursdays @ 7:00 p.m.)
TWIN LAKES SHRINE CLUB
President: Steven Walker (Betty) 916 N. Washington Ave., Madison SD 57042 (605) 270-9041 walkersb55@yahoo.com
(Meets 1st Tuesday @ 7:00 p.m.)
WATERTOWN SHRINE CLOWNS
President: Jeff Gamber (Annette) 805 13th St., Watertown, SD 57201 (605) 881-3974 jeff@countyfairwatertown.com
(Meets 4th Thursday, dinner @ 6 p.m., meeting @ 6:30 p.m.)
WORTHINGTON SHRINE CLUB
President: TBD
(Meets as called)
Ladies Activities 10:00 a.m. Welcome/Happy Hour at 2101 W. Burnside Ave. (Shuttle service from the Masonic Center will be available) 10:45 a.m. Introduction of the Divan 11:00 a.m. Lunch followed with a Program/Speaker 12:30 p.m. Leave for Shrine & Afternoon Festivities
Ladies: Please RSVP to the Shrine Office – (605) 336-1117 (Times subject to change)
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